Thank God.
Not sure why I feel this way, but I do.
I guess its because I had Christmas with my son a couple weeks ago - and Christmas with the roomie is very different indeed.
His son did come over Christmas Eve and we opened gifts that night. Don't care for it that way, but its what they wanted to do. I got his son a new guitar case, a case for his Wii and a few other things. I got the roomie some dvd's, cd's, $50 Itunes card, camera case and tripod, some clothes (his annual sweatshirt) and a rotozip (he wanted it!!). Oh - and his hot dog toaster. That's right - a hot dog toaster. It cost the least of anything and he loves it more than anything. (And it works, we tried it last night.)
I got a new computer (insert HUGE grin here) with a 22" wide screen monitor (insert even BIGGER grin here!). So, the roomie did good. He even got me a remote control for my new camera. That will come in handy.
So, since I am off work til January 2nd (jealous??) I have been working on transferring files etc to the new computer, loading software and all that fun stuff.
Oh...and trying to figure out this Vista stuff.
I think Microsoft decided to play some games with us with this software. It hides stuff.
Seriously.
But, I'll get used to it.
After all, I've got 22" of wide screen in front of me to find stuff :)
Merry Christmas :)
Thursday, December 27, 2007
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
A Haircut and Dinner...with my sister
Last night was a big first for me.
My sister Pat and I met after work. I took her to see the lady who cuts my hair and we both got haircuts. It was fun. Trish, the lady who cuts my hair, seemed to enjoy it as Pat has the real kinky curly hair that I fight - she doesn't. So, when we left there Pat had curls everywhere and mine was straight as a stick.
We left there and went to dinner. Just the two of us.
I loved every minute of it.
See, Pat is a little older than I. 8 years to be exact. She got married when I was just ten, so we never really had a chance to get close like a lot of sisters do.
Life took us in different directions. She was a stay at home Mom for years and years. Taking care of all her boys and loving it. Me? A single Mom who has worked since my son was 15 months old - wishing I could stay home with my boy.
When our Mom had her stroke in 2003, she once again moved in with Pat and her family. And, Pat has taken care of her well. They take Mom to her needed doctor appointments and everything else. And, raising an 84 year old little ole Greek woman is not an easy task. Yet, Pat and her hubby have done this.
So, my little thank you to her was to treat her to a hair cut. Then she treated to dinner (it was cheaper so she made out!!!) (ohcome on...I am teasing!!). We sat and talked - and talked - and talked.
When I dropped her back at her car we hugged. I told her I love her. Because I do.
And, we have made plans to do this again.
I can't wait. :)
My sister Pat and I met after work. I took her to see the lady who cuts my hair and we both got haircuts. It was fun. Trish, the lady who cuts my hair, seemed to enjoy it as Pat has the real kinky curly hair that I fight - she doesn't. So, when we left there Pat had curls everywhere and mine was straight as a stick.
We left there and went to dinner. Just the two of us.
I loved every minute of it.
See, Pat is a little older than I. 8 years to be exact. She got married when I was just ten, so we never really had a chance to get close like a lot of sisters do.
Life took us in different directions. She was a stay at home Mom for years and years. Taking care of all her boys and loving it. Me? A single Mom who has worked since my son was 15 months old - wishing I could stay home with my boy.
When our Mom had her stroke in 2003, she once again moved in with Pat and her family. And, Pat has taken care of her well. They take Mom to her needed doctor appointments and everything else. And, raising an 84 year old little ole Greek woman is not an easy task. Yet, Pat and her hubby have done this.
So, my little thank you to her was to treat her to a hair cut. Then she treated to dinner (it was cheaper so she made out!!!) (ohcome on...I am teasing!!). We sat and talked - and talked - and talked.
When I dropped her back at her car we hugged. I told her I love her. Because I do.
And, we have made plans to do this again.
I can't wait. :)
Thursday, December 06, 2007
Memories....
I am sitting here just trying to think of something, anything to write about.
Its funny how sometimes an idea hits, you need and want to write it down so bad yet you have no computer available or even a piece of paper to write the idea down...
So you don't forget....
And by the time you find that paper, or get to a computer - the idea is gone.
arggghhhhh
Where in the hell did it go???? Are there little martians out there collecting our thoughts as we get older? Do they just find this little pocket in our brain and hide, sitting there laughing at us because we can't find them?
It's almost like putting your glasses down somewhere and then searching blindly though the house later to find them - only to discover them on top of your head.
I said almost...
I get frustrated. I have always prided myself on my memory. And, to be honest its still very good - but, there is this thing in life called stress and sometimes, just sometimes that stress makes you forget.
Yea, that's it - its stresses fault!! Ha ha!!
It has nothing to do with the fact that I will turn 53 next week! (silent arrrghhh inserted here)....
Yes! It's due to stress.
Maybe I need a vacation.
Well, of course I do, but I doubt we'll be going anywhere anytime soon since the roomie bought the house.
Ohoh...I feel stressed....
What was I writing about again?
Its funny how sometimes an idea hits, you need and want to write it down so bad yet you have no computer available or even a piece of paper to write the idea down...
So you don't forget....
And by the time you find that paper, or get to a computer - the idea is gone.
arggghhhhh
Where in the hell did it go???? Are there little martians out there collecting our thoughts as we get older? Do they just find this little pocket in our brain and hide, sitting there laughing at us because we can't find them?
It's almost like putting your glasses down somewhere and then searching blindly though the house later to find them - only to discover them on top of your head.
I said almost...
I get frustrated. I have always prided myself on my memory. And, to be honest its still very good - but, there is this thing in life called stress and sometimes, just sometimes that stress makes you forget.
Yea, that's it - its stresses fault!! Ha ha!!
It has nothing to do with the fact that I will turn 53 next week! (silent arrrghhh inserted here)....
Yes! It's due to stress.
Maybe I need a vacation.
Well, of course I do, but I doubt we'll be going anywhere anytime soon since the roomie bought the house.
Ohoh...I feel stressed....
What was I writing about again?
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
$991....four weeks before Christmas...
OK, so I have a Jeep. A 2002 Jeep Liberty.
I love my Jeep.
Except when I have to spend $991 four weeks before Christmas on it.
Oh alright, I know I shouldn't complain. It's been a damned good Jeep. I've kept up with oil changes, tire rotations etc. But...with it being 6 years old now and having 75,000 miles on it, little things start to happen.
PVC valves, leaking differentials, power steering fluid needing flushed (I took it in cause it was grabbing when I turned a sharp right - thought it was wheel bearings, brakes, ball joints or something - it wasn't - was something with the power steering). Front end alignment. Oh, and I had a screw in my front passenger tire.
And they charged me $38 to repair it.
Now who got screwed on that one?? (And no, I didn't enjoy it.)
So, like a good person I charged it to a credit card. That way I still have the cash to go visit my son in 10 days (the reason I took the Jeep in to the shop in the first place).
The whole situation brought back memories of when my son was small and I was working my tail off for not a lot of money. I didn't have any credit cards back then and if I had been hit with a car bill like that - well, not sure what I would have done. We, like a lot of other people, lived week to week. Sometimes day to day. If and when I got a Christmas bonus at work it went to catch up bills, stock up the food cabinet or buy my son clothes and/or shoes he needed. When things like this did come up I had to find someone, usually my boss, to loan me money and let me pay it back so much a week.
Today I am older, wiser, still a single Mom but my son supports himself now. I make more money than I ever have in my life (no folks, I am not rich nor even upper middle class...hell, I don't think I am even middle middle class.).
So yes, even though $991 is a lot of money that I don't like paying - at least now I know I can.
And that my friends, feels pretty damned good.
I love my Jeep.
Except when I have to spend $991 four weeks before Christmas on it.
Oh alright, I know I shouldn't complain. It's been a damned good Jeep. I've kept up with oil changes, tire rotations etc. But...with it being 6 years old now and having 75,000 miles on it, little things start to happen.
PVC valves, leaking differentials, power steering fluid needing flushed (I took it in cause it was grabbing when I turned a sharp right - thought it was wheel bearings, brakes, ball joints or something - it wasn't - was something with the power steering). Front end alignment. Oh, and I had a screw in my front passenger tire.
And they charged me $38 to repair it.
Now who got screwed on that one?? (And no, I didn't enjoy it.)
So, like a good person I charged it to a credit card. That way I still have the cash to go visit my son in 10 days (the reason I took the Jeep in to the shop in the first place).
The whole situation brought back memories of when my son was small and I was working my tail off for not a lot of money. I didn't have any credit cards back then and if I had been hit with a car bill like that - well, not sure what I would have done. We, like a lot of other people, lived week to week. Sometimes day to day. If and when I got a Christmas bonus at work it went to catch up bills, stock up the food cabinet or buy my son clothes and/or shoes he needed. When things like this did come up I had to find someone, usually my boss, to loan me money and let me pay it back so much a week.
Today I am older, wiser, still a single Mom but my son supports himself now. I make more money than I ever have in my life (no folks, I am not rich nor even upper middle class...hell, I don't think I am even middle middle class.).
So yes, even though $991 is a lot of money that I don't like paying - at least now I know I can.
And that my friends, feels pretty damned good.
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
coughcough...hack up a lung....
No, I'm not sick - physically anyway.
The roomies brother got into town last night. Good to see him, its been a couple years. He is friendly and gives hugs - unlike his brother.
We picked him up at the airport and went out to dinner. Was nice, sat and talked. They both went out and left me sitting alone at the table so they could have a smoke.
And - when we got back to the house they both lit up - repeatedly....all night...
It was rough on me. I've only been smoke free for 4-1/2 months. I wanted one so bad yet was repulsed by the smell.
The roomie had been going outside the last few months to smoke - but now since the weather has turned colder he has started smoking inside again.
arrghhhh....
The roomies brother will be here til Saturday. I hope my lungs can handle it and I hope I can keep up my strength and not join them.
Especially on Thanksgiving. Their mother smokes too.
Maybe I'll sit outside and eat turkey....
The roomies brother got into town last night. Good to see him, its been a couple years. He is friendly and gives hugs - unlike his brother.
We picked him up at the airport and went out to dinner. Was nice, sat and talked. They both went out and left me sitting alone at the table so they could have a smoke.
And - when we got back to the house they both lit up - repeatedly....all night...
It was rough on me. I've only been smoke free for 4-1/2 months. I wanted one so bad yet was repulsed by the smell.
The roomie had been going outside the last few months to smoke - but now since the weather has turned colder he has started smoking inside again.
arrghhhh....
The roomies brother will be here til Saturday. I hope my lungs can handle it and I hope I can keep up my strength and not join them.
Especially on Thanksgiving. Their mother smokes too.
Maybe I'll sit outside and eat turkey....
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Two little words...
"Thank You"
The words are really not hard to say. Actually they can roll off the tongue quite easily at times - most times for a lot of people. And for others? They are very difficult words to say. Especially when you take people for granted and don't think what they do for you is special.
Kinda like the roomie.
Not sure when I heard those two words last. He doesn't say them often at all.
And the last two days I have spent a lot of time checking flights, making arrangements, setting up flights, emailing itineraries, getting special dietary needs written down etc etc etc....
for his brother.
Don't get me wrong, I love his brother to death. A great guy. He can make you laugh, he lets you know he cares - and he accepted me long long ago, no questions asked.
But couldn't the roomie at least say thank you for what I've done?
I guess not.
Hell, why should he say that when he hasn't said anything else to me all evening.
Again...
The words are really not hard to say. Actually they can roll off the tongue quite easily at times - most times for a lot of people. And for others? They are very difficult words to say. Especially when you take people for granted and don't think what they do for you is special.
Kinda like the roomie.
Not sure when I heard those two words last. He doesn't say them often at all.
And the last two days I have spent a lot of time checking flights, making arrangements, setting up flights, emailing itineraries, getting special dietary needs written down etc etc etc....
for his brother.
Don't get me wrong, I love his brother to death. A great guy. He can make you laugh, he lets you know he cares - and he accepted me long long ago, no questions asked.
But couldn't the roomie at least say thank you for what I've done?
I guess not.
Hell, why should he say that when he hasn't said anything else to me all evening.
Again...
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
4 Months and 10 days...
Since what you ask??
Since my last cigarette.
Yes, I think I am officially a nonsmoker now.
Because if I still smoked I could not set the treadmill at 3.6 and walk a mile after going half a mile at 3.1 with a very steep incline.
Hey...I smoked for almost 30 years! Cut me some slack here!! Maybe someday I will run on the thing!
Yes, it hit me today that I smoked for almost 30 whole years. Only time I stopped was while preggers for my son and for a short time after he was born.
And no, I will not become one of those nasty non-smoker types. Mainly because had it not been for the cost of the things and the fact that for my health, with the surgeries and all - I would probably be still smoking.
And....the roomie still smokes.
I can't and won't say anything to him. It's his house after all. And, for most of the summer and early fall, he has smoked outside. But now.....arrrrghhhh....he is smoking in the house. The new house. With pretty walls. Walls without nicotine stains.
Arrrgh
But...I stopped. No one told me to, I just did it.
Yeah me :)
I've earned my camera...
Since my last cigarette.
Yes, I think I am officially a nonsmoker now.
Because if I still smoked I could not set the treadmill at 3.6 and walk a mile after going half a mile at 3.1 with a very steep incline.
Hey...I smoked for almost 30 years! Cut me some slack here!! Maybe someday I will run on the thing!
Yes, it hit me today that I smoked for almost 30 whole years. Only time I stopped was while preggers for my son and for a short time after he was born.
And no, I will not become one of those nasty non-smoker types. Mainly because had it not been for the cost of the things and the fact that for my health, with the surgeries and all - I would probably be still smoking.
And....the roomie still smokes.
I can't and won't say anything to him. It's his house after all. And, for most of the summer and early fall, he has smoked outside. But now.....arrrrghhhh....he is smoking in the house. The new house. With pretty walls. Walls without nicotine stains.
Arrrgh
But...I stopped. No one told me to, I just did it.
Yeah me :)
I've earned my camera...
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
I did it....
Yes, I stopped after work last night and bought the camera.
(Extremely large smile inserted here...)
I spent way too much money - but what the hell. It's only money right?
(coughcough)
I got the camera, an extra lens, filters for both, a compact flash card and it cost me $746.
Including tax.
And, I get to go back tonight because not only was one of the filters a return from someone else who got gunk all over it - its the wrong size. The lens is a 50mm - the filter is 52mm.
I will not buy anything else tonight.
I can't...
I won't...
(yes - I am trying to talk myself out of spending more money)
So, someday soon I will maybe, possibly, have a picture or two here for you to see.
If you are good that is.....
(Extremely large smile inserted here...)
I spent way too much money - but what the hell. It's only money right?
(coughcough)
I got the camera, an extra lens, filters for both, a compact flash card and it cost me $746.
Including tax.
And, I get to go back tonight because not only was one of the filters a return from someone else who got gunk all over it - its the wrong size. The lens is a 50mm - the filter is 52mm.
I will not buy anything else tonight.
I can't...
I won't...
(yes - I am trying to talk myself out of spending more money)
So, someday soon I will maybe, possibly, have a picture or two here for you to see.
If you are good that is.....
Monday, November 12, 2007
Sunday, November 11, 2007
$500...and I am going to spend it on ME!
Yep, I am going to spend $500 on myself.
Hotdamn and a whoopee inserted here!!
I told you previously about how the roomie bought the camera I have been wanting for well (insert Valley Girl voice here) "like forever"...
And, today, in our local newspaper - a local camera store has it on sale for $499!!! Yes!!! $100 less than he paid for it! (yes, that is me laughing in the background)
Tomorrow night after work I will stop at the camera store. I will purchase said camera, and I will smile.
I may also buy an additional lense.
Merry Christmas to me....Merry Christmas to me.....
Hotdamn and a whoopee inserted here!!
I told you previously about how the roomie bought the camera I have been wanting for well (insert Valley Girl voice here) "like forever"...
And, today, in our local newspaper - a local camera store has it on sale for $499!!! Yes!!! $100 less than he paid for it! (yes, that is me laughing in the background)
Tomorrow night after work I will stop at the camera store. I will purchase said camera, and I will smile.
I may also buy an additional lense.
Merry Christmas to me....Merry Christmas to me.....
Wednesday, November 07, 2007
I want to run away...
Do you ever get the feeling where you just want to chuck it all and run away? Oh sure you do. Everyone gets that feeling once in a while.
Mine has lasted about the last 5 years.
I've never been one to be in with the "in" groups. Not even when I was young. I've always been the loner type (maybe that's why I still have this secret affection for the lone ranger - or it could just be that mask of his).
Today, all but a couple of us "peons" (I use the term affectionately because I truly do care about the other two ladies that were not included.) went out to lunch. One did ask me if I was going (not if I wanted to go, but she may have thought I'd been invited) just as they were walking out the door. I told her I didn't know where they were going. She just said "oh" and told me where they were going. I told her no thanks. This happens frequently at the office. And yes, it hurts. With all the other shit going on around the office right now and then the little cliques get together and just make it all the more enjoyable.
And, if you couldn't tell, its put me in a foul mood. And, its gotten me to thinking about other things...
The roomie. (Yes, I consider him a "thing" right now.) And, the fact that I am an idiot doesn't help my mood either. Again I don't fit the mold I guess. I'm not the type he wants to commit to obviously - even though we have been together over 9 years now. (Don't ask him how long - he will not know the answer.) He made a commitment to his ex-wife. They lived together I guess and eventually got married. She was good enough to marry, yet she ran around on him from what I understand.
I haven't done that and I'm not even married to the man.
Would I marry him now? No, I don't think so. He said a few years ago, and I quote, "Why ruin it?". Well hon, little do you know but when you uttered those words you killed something in the relationship or whatever in the hell this is that we have. (Good lord I sound bitter....hmmmm, maybe I am a little.)
Oh buddy, ole pal, ole roomie of mine.
It's been over 1-1/2 years since I've seen the ocean. I could live on the beach and sell tshirts or something for food (you've not seen my tshirt collection have you?). I could be a beach bum and be completely happy and content. I'd have the ocean to watch afterall.
So yes, I want to run away.
Wanna come along?
Mine has lasted about the last 5 years.
I've never been one to be in with the "in" groups. Not even when I was young. I've always been the loner type (maybe that's why I still have this secret affection for the lone ranger - or it could just be that mask of his).
Today, all but a couple of us "peons" (I use the term affectionately because I truly do care about the other two ladies that were not included.) went out to lunch. One did ask me if I was going (not if I wanted to go, but she may have thought I'd been invited) just as they were walking out the door. I told her I didn't know where they were going. She just said "oh" and told me where they were going. I told her no thanks. This happens frequently at the office. And yes, it hurts. With all the other shit going on around the office right now and then the little cliques get together and just make it all the more enjoyable.
And, if you couldn't tell, its put me in a foul mood. And, its gotten me to thinking about other things...
The roomie. (Yes, I consider him a "thing" right now.) And, the fact that I am an idiot doesn't help my mood either. Again I don't fit the mold I guess. I'm not the type he wants to commit to obviously - even though we have been together over 9 years now. (Don't ask him how long - he will not know the answer.) He made a commitment to his ex-wife. They lived together I guess and eventually got married. She was good enough to marry, yet she ran around on him from what I understand.
I haven't done that and I'm not even married to the man.
Would I marry him now? No, I don't think so. He said a few years ago, and I quote, "Why ruin it?". Well hon, little do you know but when you uttered those words you killed something in the relationship or whatever in the hell this is that we have. (Good lord I sound bitter....hmmmm, maybe I am a little.)
Oh buddy, ole pal, ole roomie of mine.
It's been over 1-1/2 years since I've seen the ocean. I could live on the beach and sell tshirts or something for food (you've not seen my tshirt collection have you?). I could be a beach bum and be completely happy and content. I'd have the ocean to watch afterall.
So yes, I want to run away.
Wanna come along?
Tuesday, November 06, 2007
Well hell....I blew it already
Yes I know. It's only November 6th. I missed my post yesterday.
But but but...(thinking quickly to come up with multiple excuses)...
Actually I can come up with the truth - I thought about it - my son called - his sister in law called - and oops...I forgot.
Damn.
Well, maybe next year.
But but but...(thinking quickly to come up with multiple excuses)...
Actually I can come up with the truth - I thought about it - my son called - his sister in law called - and oops...I forgot.
Damn.
Well, maybe next year.
Sunday, November 04, 2007
Poof....it just went poof....
My monitor that is.
Yep, my wonderful 19" flatscreen just poofed, went black and died. No warning, no messages...no note or words of goodbye. Just poof.
I've been thinking of buying a camera (yes, like the one the roomie bought) but now I will have to get another monitor. I'm lucky, I had a 15" flat panel that came with the computer when I bought it four years ago.
So now...what to do what to do...Do I buy just a new monitor, or do I buy a new computer that includes a new monitor??
(Yes, that is a sly grin being inserted here.)
This PC has done well. It's a little Compaq, 80gig harddrive - it has 512 ram, it now has 2 gig (the max it will take). It still works although it does make a little clunking noise once in a while.
I do a lot of work with photographs, a little video (just learning) oh, and blogging.
I had a look around online tonight - one place has a PC with 3gig ram, a separate video card, 400gig harddrive, decent processor speed and its on sale for $699. But...it doesn't have a monitor!!!
So, uh...I'd have to buy one.
Isn't that where I started??
Yep, my wonderful 19" flatscreen just poofed, went black and died. No warning, no messages...no note or words of goodbye. Just poof.
I've been thinking of buying a camera (yes, like the one the roomie bought) but now I will have to get another monitor. I'm lucky, I had a 15" flat panel that came with the computer when I bought it four years ago.
So now...what to do what to do...Do I buy just a new monitor, or do I buy a new computer that includes a new monitor??
(Yes, that is a sly grin being inserted here.)
This PC has done well. It's a little Compaq, 80gig harddrive - it has 512 ram, it now has 2 gig (the max it will take). It still works although it does make a little clunking noise once in a while.
I do a lot of work with photographs, a little video (just learning) oh, and blogging.
I had a look around online tonight - one place has a PC with 3gig ram, a separate video card, 400gig harddrive, decent processor speed and its on sale for $699. But...it doesn't have a monitor!!!
So, uh...I'd have to buy one.
Isn't that where I started??
Saturday, November 03, 2007
Photography...camera's...no leaves....ohmy..
The roomie bought a new camera.
A Canon EOS Rebel XT.
arrrghhhhhhh...
I have an EOS Rebel 35mm and I love it. I also have a Minolta 35mm, an Xacti 4/8 megapixel camera/video camera and a point and shoot Nikon Coolpix 775.
But ohno...he goes out any buys the one I have been drooling over for a year.
Of course now he wants ME to teach him how to use it.
(I'll teach you how to wrap the cord around your throat...)
And, this afternoon he says "Wanna go for a drive later and "we" can try out the new camera?" I said ok, just to get out of the house. Little did I know I would have to drive too....
So we take off, looking for someplace that still has some leaves on the trees - some color...
We are about a week late. Most of the color is on the ground.
He took a few pictures, grumping the whole time that there is no color.
So, like the nice person that I am (quit coughing!!) I came back and played with the photos with my photo software. He now has color....
I've done my good deed for today - I didn't wrap the cord around his throat and I gave his picture color.
I'm just too nice sometimes....
A Canon EOS Rebel XT.
arrrghhhhhhh...
I have an EOS Rebel 35mm and I love it. I also have a Minolta 35mm, an Xacti 4/8 megapixel camera/video camera and a point and shoot Nikon Coolpix 775.
But ohno...he goes out any buys the one I have been drooling over for a year.
Of course now he wants ME to teach him how to use it.
(I'll teach you how to wrap the cord around your throat...)
And, this afternoon he says "Wanna go for a drive later and "we" can try out the new camera?" I said ok, just to get out of the house. Little did I know I would have to drive too....
So we take off, looking for someplace that still has some leaves on the trees - some color...
We are about a week late. Most of the color is on the ground.
He took a few pictures, grumping the whole time that there is no color.
So, like the nice person that I am (quit coughing!!) I came back and played with the photos with my photo software. He now has color....
I've done my good deed for today - I didn't wrap the cord around his throat and I gave his picture color.
I'm just too nice sometimes....
Friday, November 02, 2007
She's home
Mom has been in a rehab center since September 28th. Today she was set free.
I called to check in and make sure everything was okay. My sister (who Mom lives with) told me they had made some major changes to Moms medications.
We've noticed in the last couple of weeks that she has been more alert, her speech seems so much better and the confusion doesn't seem near as bad...
The doctor told my sister that the medications Mom was on were contributing to some of her problems. But, she also told me that they had taken Mom off her blood thinner.
Do what?
I've been with her at dinner when they would bring it to her. "Here Nicky, take your Cumidin."
Now they say she doesn't need it? She's had 5 strokes people.
So, I called the doctor. I explain what I've been told and what I've seen at the rehab center.
He agrees, and apologizes. He is sorry that my sister and brother who went to their office earlier today to make sure Moms medication list was correct were given the wrong information!!
aaaaaccccccckkkkkkkkkkkkkkkk!!!
So, I call my brother to see what the milligrams the pills were that Mom has...wrong size. Can't even be broken in half to give the proper dosage.
So, I call the doctors office - again. Explain it to the nurse - again. She apologizes - again.
I don't want a freaking apology - we need the correct medications and someone besides me to know the difference!!!
So, they told me to have her take 3 2mg. tablets tonight and they will call in her new prescription for 7.5mg. tablets to pick up tomorrow.
Again I call to talk to my brother about the pills. He asked me to explain it to Mom.
I love her, I truly truly love her....but I wanted to just...well...box her ears as she used to say.
She wanted to argue with me about the dosage (after I told her repeatedly that the doctor says she HAS to take the medicine - Mom it is to thin your blood so that it flows through your brain without causing another stroke. You have been taking this for years and you must take it. They have just adjusted the dosage). Then she wanted to argue because I told her the doctor wants to see her next week to take a blood test instead of in two weeks.
I'm not sure whats going on. It could be the changes due to the changes in medicines - but she wants to argue a lot lately. I do not like to argue - period.
She is a strongly independant woman (which is a good thing) - but this is bordering on majorly stubborn!
So, after 30 minutes of trying repeatedly to explain the new dosage and the need for the medicine, and explaining the change in her doctors appointment, I got off the phone.
I'm tired. Exhausted.
My sister is being promoted to sainthood.
I called to check in and make sure everything was okay. My sister (who Mom lives with) told me they had made some major changes to Moms medications.
We've noticed in the last couple of weeks that she has been more alert, her speech seems so much better and the confusion doesn't seem near as bad...
The doctor told my sister that the medications Mom was on were contributing to some of her problems. But, she also told me that they had taken Mom off her blood thinner.
Do what?
I've been with her at dinner when they would bring it to her. "Here Nicky, take your Cumidin."
Now they say she doesn't need it? She's had 5 strokes people.
So, I called the doctor. I explain what I've been told and what I've seen at the rehab center.
He agrees, and apologizes. He is sorry that my sister and brother who went to their office earlier today to make sure Moms medication list was correct were given the wrong information!!
aaaaaccccccckkkkkkkkkkkkkkkk!!!
So, I call my brother to see what the milligrams the pills were that Mom has...wrong size. Can't even be broken in half to give the proper dosage.
So, I call the doctors office - again. Explain it to the nurse - again. She apologizes - again.
I don't want a freaking apology - we need the correct medications and someone besides me to know the difference!!!
So, they told me to have her take 3 2mg. tablets tonight and they will call in her new prescription for 7.5mg. tablets to pick up tomorrow.
Again I call to talk to my brother about the pills. He asked me to explain it to Mom.
I love her, I truly truly love her....but I wanted to just...well...box her ears as she used to say.
She wanted to argue with me about the dosage (after I told her repeatedly that the doctor says she HAS to take the medicine - Mom it is to thin your blood so that it flows through your brain without causing another stroke. You have been taking this for years and you must take it. They have just adjusted the dosage). Then she wanted to argue because I told her the doctor wants to see her next week to take a blood test instead of in two weeks.
I'm not sure whats going on. It could be the changes due to the changes in medicines - but she wants to argue a lot lately. I do not like to argue - period.
She is a strongly independant woman (which is a good thing) - but this is bordering on majorly stubborn!
So, after 30 minutes of trying repeatedly to explain the new dosage and the need for the medicine, and explaining the change in her doctors appointment, I got off the phone.
I'm tired. Exhausted.
My sister is being promoted to sainthood.
Thursday, November 01, 2007
It's November...
It is not December.
(Halloween was yesterday forgodssake!)
And every other commercial on television is about Christmas.
Toys, electronics, jewelry....gifts, trees, decorations.
Uh...excuse me, but isn't it still three weeks before Thanksgiving??
Doesn't anyone celebrate Turkey Day anymore?
I remember waking up Thanksgiving morning to a house already smelling of pies baking in the oven. Preparations would have actually started days before - grinding of cranberries, chopping of veggies for the tray and for the stuffing.
And Mom made the turkey dance. All 28 - 32 lbs. or so of it (She would get the largest turkey the store could order).
We would have turkey, ham, sweet potato's, mashed postato's, gravy, stuffing, huge veggie tray, dinner rolls, candied dill pickles, cranberry salad, jello salad and salad salad. Green bean casserole and corn for the kids. Pies - cherry, pumpkin, pecan and minced meat for Dad.
Everyone would eat so much they would literally unfasten their pants to breathe. And then in 2 hours we would go back for more.
We watched parades together and football games. And later we would gather around the table for a game of hearts.
Thanksgiving.
A day to celebrate family and be thankful for what we have and who we are with. A day to be thankful for life itself.
So tonight, November 1st, I have seen numerous Christmas commercials.
Not one for Thanksgiving.
Oh wait, I know whats going on! They are waiting 2-1/2 weeks!
Then they can start running the AFTER Thanksgiving sales commercials!
Advertisers - gotta love em...
(Halloween was yesterday forgodssake!)
And every other commercial on television is about Christmas.
Toys, electronics, jewelry....gifts, trees, decorations.
Uh...excuse me, but isn't it still three weeks before Thanksgiving??
Doesn't anyone celebrate Turkey Day anymore?
I remember waking up Thanksgiving morning to a house already smelling of pies baking in the oven. Preparations would have actually started days before - grinding of cranberries, chopping of veggies for the tray and for the stuffing.
And Mom made the turkey dance. All 28 - 32 lbs. or so of it (She would get the largest turkey the store could order).
We would have turkey, ham, sweet potato's, mashed postato's, gravy, stuffing, huge veggie tray, dinner rolls, candied dill pickles, cranberry salad, jello salad and salad salad. Green bean casserole and corn for the kids. Pies - cherry, pumpkin, pecan and minced meat for Dad.
Everyone would eat so much they would literally unfasten their pants to breathe. And then in 2 hours we would go back for more.
We watched parades together and football games. And later we would gather around the table for a game of hearts.
Thanksgiving.
A day to celebrate family and be thankful for what we have and who we are with. A day to be thankful for life itself.
So tonight, November 1st, I have seen numerous Christmas commercials.
Not one for Thanksgiving.
Oh wait, I know whats going on! They are waiting 2-1/2 weeks!
Then they can start running the AFTER Thanksgiving sales commercials!
Advertisers - gotta love em...
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
Yes, I'll take some cheese with my whine....
We all wake up sometimes with things on our minds and we just know its not going to be an easy day to get through.
Well, my day has lasted about 3-1/2 months now.
(whine)
Yes, this is a poor me post.
I want to just sit and scream, cry, throw things, run away, make ugly faces at people (now this will not be too difficult for me to do....whine...), hide in the corner, climb walls and eat tons and tons of chocolate.
But I can't, so I will just whine right here.
July 4th, 2007 11:00 PM - my last cigarette. The night before my first back surgery. I didn't realize at that time that it would be my last and sometimes I really don't want it to have been my last. I want to smoke! It's my right to kill myself and cough and hack up a lung damnit! But, my darned son is proud of me for quitting and so is my mom. Arrrrrghhhhh......(that is the sound of a frustrated whine).
July 5th, 2007 I had my first of two back surgeries. Yep, they split open my spine, chopped off two bulging disks and cleaned out around the spinal cord. Severe spinal stenosis he called it. Was having trouble walking and this was supposed to fix it. Ok fine - do it. Drugs were good for the first two days. Couldn't pee without pressing on my stomach, running water in the sink or putting my hand in warm water. And I am 52 forgodssake!!! I did those sorts of things to my son when I was potty training him...23 years ago! But..it got better, I went home and started to heal..
Then BAM!....ouchies, cramps, severe pain even down the left leg again. Another MRI and yes folks - more surgery.
But first I got to go back to work for a whole 2-1/2 weeks!! Yea me! Just long enough to realize that my boss may not be selected for the president position they are hiring for (no..I do not qualify myself...sniffsniff...I won't go into that now...sniffsniff). And now we find he is also ill...(huge sigh inserted here).
August 23rd, 2007 - my second back surgery. More good drugs and once again - I can't pee. (awww come on body, you can do it. Please..pretty please) This time I was in the hospital for 4 days because I couldn't pee. And they tell me its normally men who have this problem.
I am female damnit. Well, at least last time I checked I was. (Whine)
At least this time the legs and back felt different. And now, eight weeks later my legs still feel great. No pain (knocking on wood here). Back has some pain but the doc said I need to get used to that as I will probably have that the rest of my life (whine).
Week and a half after I got back to work Mom had a stroke. My best friend has been struck again. This is her 5th. It happened as I sat there talking to her. We were getting ready to take her to my place - she hadn't seen the house since we got all moved in.
And, from the hospital she went to a nursing home for rehabilitation. She is doing great in there and working very hard. I am very proud of her.
But I am also very tired.
I am back to working 50 hour weeks. I go to see Mom every other day and spend a few hours (which I do NOT mind), but the drive from there to the house is long (my sisters both live 10 minutes away - one has visited ONCE in the last month), I do her laundry for her (the home charges $75 a month and they wash everything in hot water). The new house wasn't cleaned much while I was down so I am still trying to catch up on all of that (you really don't think the roomie could or would scrub floors or toilets now do you???). I try to stay upbeat for Mom. It's not always easy, but I try my best.
My boy is having back problems of his own. Seeing the neurologist and will start having some sort of injections into the spine this week. He is too young to have surgery - way too young. (Fix my boy ok?? please???)
The roomie is a whole other story. Lets just say (for now) that this past Saturday was Sweetest Day. Yes, another silly holiday made up by the card and candy companies. The roomie got me a card. Ok fine. Yes, I got him more than that but that's ok. Its just that - after 9 years (yes, 9 long years) - he still spells my name wrong. And it's not like I have a difficult name.
Its Sandy.
(Whine)
Ok, so that is my whine.
Colby please, with crackers. And maybe some pepperjack or swiss.
Well, my day has lasted about 3-1/2 months now.
(whine)
Yes, this is a poor me post.
I want to just sit and scream, cry, throw things, run away, make ugly faces at people (now this will not be too difficult for me to do....whine...), hide in the corner, climb walls and eat tons and tons of chocolate.
But I can't, so I will just whine right here.
July 4th, 2007 11:00 PM - my last cigarette. The night before my first back surgery. I didn't realize at that time that it would be my last and sometimes I really don't want it to have been my last. I want to smoke! It's my right to kill myself and cough and hack up a lung damnit! But, my darned son is proud of me for quitting and so is my mom. Arrrrrghhhhh......(that is the sound of a frustrated whine).
July 5th, 2007 I had my first of two back surgeries. Yep, they split open my spine, chopped off two bulging disks and cleaned out around the spinal cord. Severe spinal stenosis he called it. Was having trouble walking and this was supposed to fix it. Ok fine - do it. Drugs were good for the first two days. Couldn't pee without pressing on my stomach, running water in the sink or putting my hand in warm water. And I am 52 forgodssake!!! I did those sorts of things to my son when I was potty training him...23 years ago! But..it got better, I went home and started to heal..
Then BAM!....ouchies, cramps, severe pain even down the left leg again. Another MRI and yes folks - more surgery.
But first I got to go back to work for a whole 2-1/2 weeks!! Yea me! Just long enough to realize that my boss may not be selected for the president position they are hiring for (no..I do not qualify myself...sniffsniff...I won't go into that now...sniffsniff). And now we find he is also ill...(huge sigh inserted here).
August 23rd, 2007 - my second back surgery. More good drugs and once again - I can't pee. (awww come on body, you can do it. Please..pretty please) This time I was in the hospital for 4 days because I couldn't pee. And they tell me its normally men who have this problem.
I am female damnit. Well, at least last time I checked I was. (Whine)
At least this time the legs and back felt different. And now, eight weeks later my legs still feel great. No pain (knocking on wood here). Back has some pain but the doc said I need to get used to that as I will probably have that the rest of my life (whine).
Week and a half after I got back to work Mom had a stroke. My best friend has been struck again. This is her 5th. It happened as I sat there talking to her. We were getting ready to take her to my place - she hadn't seen the house since we got all moved in.
And, from the hospital she went to a nursing home for rehabilitation. She is doing great in there and working very hard. I am very proud of her.
But I am also very tired.
I am back to working 50 hour weeks. I go to see Mom every other day and spend a few hours (which I do NOT mind), but the drive from there to the house is long (my sisters both live 10 minutes away - one has visited ONCE in the last month), I do her laundry for her (the home charges $75 a month and they wash everything in hot water). The new house wasn't cleaned much while I was down so I am still trying to catch up on all of that (you really don't think the roomie could or would scrub floors or toilets now do you???). I try to stay upbeat for Mom. It's not always easy, but I try my best.
My boy is having back problems of his own. Seeing the neurologist and will start having some sort of injections into the spine this week. He is too young to have surgery - way too young. (Fix my boy ok?? please???)
The roomie is a whole other story. Lets just say (for now) that this past Saturday was Sweetest Day. Yes, another silly holiday made up by the card and candy companies. The roomie got me a card. Ok fine. Yes, I got him more than that but that's ok. Its just that - after 9 years (yes, 9 long years) - he still spells my name wrong. And it's not like I have a difficult name.
Its Sandy.
(Whine)
Ok, so that is my whine.
Colby please, with crackers. And maybe some pepperjack or swiss.
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
Yes - It's October - and you know what that means...
It's play with your boobies month!!
Ok ok, I am not trying to make light of a serious subject. (Well, actually I am...if you lose your sense of humor ya might as well just hang it up.)
It is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. It's been all over the news, the internet, the newspapers. Even a blog Boobie-Thon!
They are even selling pink ribbon shaped cookies at Kroger.
I bought two. One for Mom and one for me.
Mom, now 84 yrs old. A 2-1/2 yr. breast cancer survivor. (Big huge smile inserted here.)
So in June of this year I went to see my doctor. I had my yearly exam and testing done. With Mom having had breast cancer, my chances now increase. I am cancer free.
I am one of the lucky ones.
So ladies and gentlemen - have you examined yourself lately? Have you seen your doctor for your exam?
If not, please do. A lot of folks would like to keep you around a while longer.
I know I do.....my blog needs readers! (ok ok!!! I'll stop trying to make jokes!!)
Do it for you!
Ok ok, I am not trying to make light of a serious subject. (Well, actually I am...if you lose your sense of humor ya might as well just hang it up.)
It is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. It's been all over the news, the internet, the newspapers. Even a blog Boobie-Thon!
They are even selling pink ribbon shaped cookies at Kroger.
I bought two. One for Mom and one for me.
Mom, now 84 yrs old. A 2-1/2 yr. breast cancer survivor. (Big huge smile inserted here.)
So in June of this year I went to see my doctor. I had my yearly exam and testing done. With Mom having had breast cancer, my chances now increase. I am cancer free.
I am one of the lucky ones.
So ladies and gentlemen - have you examined yourself lately? Have you seen your doctor for your exam?
If not, please do. A lot of folks would like to keep you around a while longer.
I know I do.....my blog needs readers! (ok ok!!! I'll stop trying to make jokes!!)
Do it for you!
Thursday, September 27, 2007
Mom...
They determined today that Mom did have another stroke, in the same area of the brain that was affected in 1985 and 86 - which affected her right side. This one was not as big, which explains why just her leg is affected and not her arm - but now they have her on another anti-seizure medicine.
And - they are going to put her in a nursing home for physical therapy for about 3 months. Now, they say if she gets stronger etc she will get out of there - but, logic and the look on my sisters face tells me that Mom will live there after this.
So, while talking to Mom and trying to convince her that this is best, and if she goes in there and eats good and does her physical therapy and gets stronger that she will get to come home - and at the same time I am trying to convince myself of the same thing.
Logic also tells me that no one can take care of her. Pat & Larry cant be expected to help her to the bathroom, give her showers etc. Pat works now and Larry is always so busy fixing things around the house. Tanya has 5 kids under 18 still at home and surely cant do it ...and me? Well...I cant even lift her fucking wheelchair right now let alone her - and she is down to 120 lbs...
I want a fucking cigarette so bad I cant stand it.
I was up at 4 am this morning trying to puke my guts out and it was just dry heaves. Nerves? Not sure. My stomachs a mess, haven't eaten much in the last few days or slept much either.
She is my best friend. How do you do this to your best friend? How can I let them put her in a place and not take care of her myself?
I really want that cigarette.
And - they are going to put her in a nursing home for physical therapy for about 3 months. Now, they say if she gets stronger etc she will get out of there - but, logic and the look on my sisters face tells me that Mom will live there after this.
So, while talking to Mom and trying to convince her that this is best, and if she goes in there and eats good and does her physical therapy and gets stronger that she will get to come home - and at the same time I am trying to convince myself of the same thing.
Logic also tells me that no one can take care of her. Pat & Larry cant be expected to help her to the bathroom, give her showers etc. Pat works now and Larry is always so busy fixing things around the house. Tanya has 5 kids under 18 still at home and surely cant do it ...and me? Well...I cant even lift her fucking wheelchair right now let alone her - and she is down to 120 lbs...
I want a fucking cigarette so bad I cant stand it.
I was up at 4 am this morning trying to puke my guts out and it was just dry heaves. Nerves? Not sure. My stomachs a mess, haven't eaten much in the last few days or slept much either.
She is my best friend. How do you do this to your best friend? How can I let them put her in a place and not take care of her myself?
I really want that cigarette.
Monday, September 10, 2007
Ohhh my aching back...
Yes, I've been gone awhile. Haven't posted since May. Yes, I was very busy with the move and getting settled into the new house (still love it, its gorgeous!), working in the yard, and oh...having surgery on my back....twice.
I've had problems with my back for years. And, like an idiot I put off going to the doctor about it. But, in late May I couldn't put it off any longer. The doctor sent me in for an MRI (one of those test where they shove you in a giant paper towel tube and you get to listen to 50,000 little kids with those space sounding toy guns). The neurosurgeon said I had severe spinal stenosis.
Huh?
Well, it is real and it meant my spinal column was basically clamping shut on the nerves going down into my legs making them hurt, cramp, go numb, knee's buckle etc etc etc...He said that the L4 and L5 disk were affected and I needed surgery - soon - or I wouldn't be walking within 6 months to a year.
Well, now how do you say no to that?
So, on July 5th, 2007 I underwent back surgery. I was in the hospital for 3 days. Didn't do to bad, walked around some - but within 2-1/2 weeks I started feeling the cramping and tingling sensations in my left leg. I called the surgeons office and they made me an appointment for the following week. And, they ordered another MRI.
Ohjoy, I get to be stuck in the paper towel tube again only this time they are injecting dye into me so that they can see clearly where they operated on my back in July. I had to wait about 10 days to see the doctor and get the results of the test...
I needed more surgery.
Argggggggghhhhhhhhhh
So, on August 23rd I underwent my second back surgery. Seven weeks to the day of the first. I was in the hospital four days this time - but, it feels different. My back feels different than last time. No block of wood between my back and the bed when I lay down - and, my legs don't hurt.
I am trying to be positive about this. Kind of difficult when this is the second time I have been off work for 4 wks since July 1st - and I don't miss work! I had enough sick days accumulated that I didn't have to file for disability.
And, I love the new house - but right now it feels as if the walls are closing in. I am not allowed to drive or be in a car for 2 more weeks. I sit here all day alone trying to find something to watch on television, play games on the computer, sort through family photo's, sit outside and watch the humming birds...
Basically going nutso.
But, I am following doctors orders so that my back heals correctly so I can get back to work, work in my yard and basically get back to life.
So, I've been away. I will try to get back here more often now that I am allowed to sit here at my computer.
I just hope someone notices :)
I've had problems with my back for years. And, like an idiot I put off going to the doctor about it. But, in late May I couldn't put it off any longer. The doctor sent me in for an MRI (one of those test where they shove you in a giant paper towel tube and you get to listen to 50,000 little kids with those space sounding toy guns). The neurosurgeon said I had severe spinal stenosis.
Huh?
Well, it is real and it meant my spinal column was basically clamping shut on the nerves going down into my legs making them hurt, cramp, go numb, knee's buckle etc etc etc...He said that the L4 and L5 disk were affected and I needed surgery - soon - or I wouldn't be walking within 6 months to a year.
Well, now how do you say no to that?
So, on July 5th, 2007 I underwent back surgery. I was in the hospital for 3 days. Didn't do to bad, walked around some - but within 2-1/2 weeks I started feeling the cramping and tingling sensations in my left leg. I called the surgeons office and they made me an appointment for the following week. And, they ordered another MRI.
Ohjoy, I get to be stuck in the paper towel tube again only this time they are injecting dye into me so that they can see clearly where they operated on my back in July. I had to wait about 10 days to see the doctor and get the results of the test...
I needed more surgery.
Argggggggghhhhhhhhhh
So, on August 23rd I underwent my second back surgery. Seven weeks to the day of the first. I was in the hospital four days this time - but, it feels different. My back feels different than last time. No block of wood between my back and the bed when I lay down - and, my legs don't hurt.
I am trying to be positive about this. Kind of difficult when this is the second time I have been off work for 4 wks since July 1st - and I don't miss work! I had enough sick days accumulated that I didn't have to file for disability.
And, I love the new house - but right now it feels as if the walls are closing in. I am not allowed to drive or be in a car for 2 more weeks. I sit here all day alone trying to find something to watch on television, play games on the computer, sort through family photo's, sit outside and watch the humming birds...
Basically going nutso.
But, I am following doctors orders so that my back heals correctly so I can get back to work, work in my yard and basically get back to life.
So, I've been away. I will try to get back here more often now that I am allowed to sit here at my computer.
I just hope someone notices :)
Sunday, May 13, 2007
The Storm from Hell
Tuesday, May 15th, a night I won't forget soon.
I arrived at the office about 7:15 that morning, as usual. The only difference being that I knew it would be about 10pm or later that I would arrive home that night. It was the day of our "Eclipse Awards" - a huge deal for the nonprofit organization that I work for. We give out wawards to businesses and other nonprofits for their ethics and integrity in doing business.
The day went well, the awards dinner went even better. 560 people in attendance, food was good and people were excited and proud of their awards. The students who also received awards are amazing teenagers who have done a lot in their short time on this earth.
One of the girls in the office and I left about 9:30 as I was taking her home. We chatted on the drive, glad the long day was over. We both noticed some lightening flashing in the sky but paid no real attention to it - it wasn't raining...
Yet.
I dropped her off and jumped onto the Interstate to continue my trip home. I noticed the flashes of lightening were more frequent, the rain started hitting my windshield.
The hail started next. A lot of it in fact. Bouncing off the glass and the hood of my Jeep. The sky proceeded to open up. Rain came down so hard, so fast that I could not see. I turned my wipers on full force, had my flashers on so if anyone else was on the road they would maybe see me - because I couldn't see them.
I couldn't pull off the road - I couldn't see where to pull off. Lightening was flashing closer and closer - and in the sky I see clouds - no, not clouds - funnel shapes - two of them.
And I was headed right between them.
All I could do was drive - and pray. Hail, rain, winds over 60mph - and me, alone on the highway.
And then I felt it - the hair on every inch of my body starting to raise - and the flash on the road in front of me. Lightening struck the road. I couldn't swerve to anyside - I couldn't see if anything or anyone was there. I hit my brakes to slow down even more and prayed some more.
I eventually made it to my exit - which was flooded. The street on which I live had about 8 inches of water covering it. I hit the button, the garage door opened...
I was home.
The next morning the sun was out and as I checked email the roomie came in the room and said "you have to see this". He opened the blinds to the back yard...
And there in the yard was a pond - a new one, not one we had made - and in it swimming were three mallard ducks - having a ball! Swimming, playing and trying to find something to eat.
I survived the drive and the storm gave the ducks a place to play.
And life goes on....
I arrived at the office about 7:15 that morning, as usual. The only difference being that I knew it would be about 10pm or later that I would arrive home that night. It was the day of our "Eclipse Awards" - a huge deal for the nonprofit organization that I work for. We give out wawards to businesses and other nonprofits for their ethics and integrity in doing business.
The day went well, the awards dinner went even better. 560 people in attendance, food was good and people were excited and proud of their awards. The students who also received awards are amazing teenagers who have done a lot in their short time on this earth.
One of the girls in the office and I left about 9:30 as I was taking her home. We chatted on the drive, glad the long day was over. We both noticed some lightening flashing in the sky but paid no real attention to it - it wasn't raining...
Yet.
I dropped her off and jumped onto the Interstate to continue my trip home. I noticed the flashes of lightening were more frequent, the rain started hitting my windshield.
The hail started next. A lot of it in fact. Bouncing off the glass and the hood of my Jeep. The sky proceeded to open up. Rain came down so hard, so fast that I could not see. I turned my wipers on full force, had my flashers on so if anyone else was on the road they would maybe see me - because I couldn't see them.
I couldn't pull off the road - I couldn't see where to pull off. Lightening was flashing closer and closer - and in the sky I see clouds - no, not clouds - funnel shapes - two of them.
And I was headed right between them.
All I could do was drive - and pray. Hail, rain, winds over 60mph - and me, alone on the highway.
And then I felt it - the hair on every inch of my body starting to raise - and the flash on the road in front of me. Lightening struck the road. I couldn't swerve to anyside - I couldn't see if anything or anyone was there. I hit my brakes to slow down even more and prayed some more.
I eventually made it to my exit - which was flooded. The street on which I live had about 8 inches of water covering it. I hit the button, the garage door opened...
I was home.
The next morning the sun was out and as I checked email the roomie came in the room and said "you have to see this". He opened the blinds to the back yard...
And there in the yard was a pond - a new one, not one we had made - and in it swimming were three mallard ducks - having a ball! Swimming, playing and trying to find something to eat.
I survived the drive and the storm gave the ducks a place to play.
And life goes on....
Monday, April 16, 2007
Boxes, boxes and more boxes
Ok, so I'm still with the roomie. No, I didn't leave. We've actually been getting along better and talking.
Yes, talking.
You know talking! It's that sound that comes out when you move your mouth.
At least I *think* he is learning to talk.
But so far, so good.
And...he bought a new house! Brand spanking new! It has 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths, cathedral ceilings, chestnut cabinets in the kitchen - 1670 sq. ft. of fresh new gorgeous house :)
And....I have a walk in closet!! Yea! Whoopee! Hot damn even!
As per normal - I did the packing, most of the moving of boxes and clothing. He and his son did move the bed and washer and dryer. (Thank goodness, cause I just can't lift those on my own.) He bought a new living room set and dining table and a breakfast set. His son is living in the old place and he left all that for him there. So basically, besides all the new kitchen stuff I had to buy, we didn't bring a lot from the old place - basic appliances that his son won't use, and all my personal stuff (that has been stuffed away in a closet for years).
My kitchen is gorgeous, the guest bathroom now has a lighthouse shower curtain, towels etc...color! The house is painted neutral colors so I picked out a beautiful dark wood dining set. Accenting color? RED! (Well, what I've bought so far...I only have so much money!!)
So, we are slowly but surely making this place our own. It will take time to find just the right things to hang on walls and decorate. The back yard is supposed to be seeded this week, sod is down in the front and I have a weeping cherry tree :)
So...we have been working on this thing called a "relationship". Hopefully we both will continue to communicate...talk...and maybe, just maybe someday he will start to show affection.
I mean really...we've only been together 8-1/2 years...
Yes, talking.
You know talking! It's that sound that comes out when you move your mouth.
At least I *think* he is learning to talk.
But so far, so good.
And...he bought a new house! Brand spanking new! It has 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths, cathedral ceilings, chestnut cabinets in the kitchen - 1670 sq. ft. of fresh new gorgeous house :)
And....I have a walk in closet!! Yea! Whoopee! Hot damn even!
As per normal - I did the packing, most of the moving of boxes and clothing. He and his son did move the bed and washer and dryer. (Thank goodness, cause I just can't lift those on my own.) He bought a new living room set and dining table and a breakfast set. His son is living in the old place and he left all that for him there. So basically, besides all the new kitchen stuff I had to buy, we didn't bring a lot from the old place - basic appliances that his son won't use, and all my personal stuff (that has been stuffed away in a closet for years).
My kitchen is gorgeous, the guest bathroom now has a lighthouse shower curtain, towels etc...color! The house is painted neutral colors so I picked out a beautiful dark wood dining set. Accenting color? RED! (Well, what I've bought so far...I only have so much money!!)
So, we are slowly but surely making this place our own. It will take time to find just the right things to hang on walls and decorate. The back yard is supposed to be seeded this week, sod is down in the front and I have a weeping cherry tree :)
So...we have been working on this thing called a "relationship". Hopefully we both will continue to communicate...talk...and maybe, just maybe someday he will start to show affection.
I mean really...we've only been together 8-1/2 years...
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