Abby rocked her violin recital (that seems like an oxymoron, no? -- although after seeing Transiberian Orchestra last week, they DO have rocking violins -- electric at that!). In any event, I hit no wrong notes in my piano part, though I did skip a couple chords. sigh. She did GREAT! One of the few to have the piece memorized, and she's so calm up there on stage -- I'm still a nervous wreck!
Regarding TSO -- we took Tom on Thursday evening for his Christmas present -- they do an awesome Christmas show. The spiritual message was a bonus for us, I was just anticipating good music and fun for all. We had good seats at the arena, despite the rain we made it there and home safely, and we ALL enjoyed it -- a good measure of a show! And nice to surprise Tom with something unexpected, new, and enjoyable for him as well.
Sunday, December 20, 2009
Almost Christmas!
Looking forward to Abby's violin recital today. She's playing "Gavotte" and graciously allowing me to accompany her. The benefit of that is that we can practice together more often! The downside is having her mom accompany her. You know!
Yesterday Maggie and I braved the mall. First we went to the library to get some books for a school project (homework over the holidays -- although the assignment isn't due anytime soon, she's like me and wants to get a head start!). Then to the mall. Actually managed to find all we needed (including a pair of jeans for her after "only" trying on 7 pairs). Not too bad (as all of you ladies who try to find jeans that fit know!). I do need to shorten them a bit and lengthen another pair, but she's got 3 that she can wear. Phew!
Getting ready for Christmas holiday -- the refrigerator is emptying, although I do need to stop at the grocery for 3 things (that will keep!). Cat will be dropped at the kennel tomorrow. Laundry and packing to commence, and then we'll be gone for a while. Depending on activity, I may update while gone (especially if someone does something funny!), or just wait. Live in suspense -- it's good for you!
Yesterday Maggie and I braved the mall. First we went to the library to get some books for a school project (homework over the holidays -- although the assignment isn't due anytime soon, she's like me and wants to get a head start!). Then to the mall. Actually managed to find all we needed (including a pair of jeans for her after "only" trying on 7 pairs). Not too bad (as all of you ladies who try to find jeans that fit know!). I do need to shorten them a bit and lengthen another pair, but she's got 3 that she can wear. Phew!
Getting ready for Christmas holiday -- the refrigerator is emptying, although I do need to stop at the grocery for 3 things (that will keep!). Cat will be dropped at the kennel tomorrow. Laundry and packing to commence, and then we'll be gone for a while. Depending on activity, I may update while gone (especially if someone does something funny!), or just wait. Live in suspense -- it's good for you!
Thursday, December 17, 2009
water, auction, and batting eyelashes
Hopefully an intriguing title will cause you to read. If not, just click on to another site!
Water: on Saturday the girls and I went to see The Nutcracker. Maggie wanted to see her friends in it and Abby and I were interested as well. So we headed to NOCCA which is about a 20 minute drive from here, down by the river. We enjoyed the show and Maggie was able to giver her friends their flowers after the school. Then the problems started. It has been raining, and was pouring by the time we left. Maggie had thought ahead to bring in the umbrella, so I made a run for the car, stepping in a 2 inch puddle with both feet along the way. Sigh. Got to the car and went back to get the girls. So we headed home. I don't like to take the interstate when I have an alternate route, especially in the rain, so we headed back home the way we'd come. Unfortunately, that entailed MANY spots of standing water. Our first "stopping point" occurred about 6 miles from home where we stopped on a crossover on a street median. Sat there for about 30 minutes, called Tom (who helpfully gave us the weather conditions at home!), check the radar from my phone, and came up with our first detour -- braving the interstate. Made it onto the freeway and to our exit without any problems. Then we encountered another delay -- only about 2 miles from home this time, but the direct street to our house was blocked by police cars. So we took another detour and got a bit closer. Then had another spot where the standing water was over the curbs, almost covering the neutral grounds. Another detour, then we headed home. We got within 4 blocks and absolutely could not go any further. At this point Maggie and I lost it and started to cry, which, of course, set Abby off. FINALLY (about 20 minutes later) I saw a sedan pass thru and figured he was lower to the ground than I was so we headed the rest of the way home. 2 hours after leaving the ballet. One of Maggie's friends mom's called me and asked if we'd gotten home -- they live on the next block and didn't get home until 9:30pm. The director of the ballet school's husband successfully flooded her car. So I suppose we didn't have it too bad!
Auction: Sunday was a much nicer day, despite more rain. We got to see how high the water had risen all over, and marvel (at least I did!) on the water still standing in people's yards. WOW! Church and football (go Saints!) followed. Headed to a re-scheduled piano lesson after football and then home where Abby had an idea to hold an art auction in our house. So we did. It was quite fun! I managed to sell some of my art from my class, Abby and Maggie sold some of theirs as well. I think Abby both spent and earned the most money! The art went for between 10 cents and 4 dollars. Hilarious. And I was able to let my art teacher know that I was now a marketable artist (ha ha!).
Batting eyelashes: Yesterday (Wednesday) I was quizzing Maggie over her science for her exam. For some reason I batted my eyelashes. She tried and couldn't do so. So I asked her how she expected to flirt with boys when she couldn't even bat her lashes. So she used her fingers to move her eyelids. Then Abby came downstairs and was able to bat her lashes. So Maggie kept trying and it just got to be (stupidly) more and more funny, to the point where we were laughing hysterically. Maggie looked more like she had sand under her lashes than that she was flirting. It went downhill from there when I asked her how she expected to flirt with boys. She decided that she'd make faces at them. And the faces she was making would NOT be successful. In any event, it made for an enjoyable time together!
In other news, tonight we're taking Tom to see the Transiberian Orchestra for his Christmas gift. Should be fun. He was able to pick the girls up from school at noon (early dismissal) so I could participate in my last art class in its entirety (she actually liked my painting!).
In any event, those are the highlights from this week! Have a safe and wonderful weekend......
Water: on Saturday the girls and I went to see The Nutcracker. Maggie wanted to see her friends in it and Abby and I were interested as well. So we headed to NOCCA which is about a 20 minute drive from here, down by the river. We enjoyed the show and Maggie was able to giver her friends their flowers after the school. Then the problems started. It has been raining, and was pouring by the time we left. Maggie had thought ahead to bring in the umbrella, so I made a run for the car, stepping in a 2 inch puddle with both feet along the way. Sigh. Got to the car and went back to get the girls. So we headed home. I don't like to take the interstate when I have an alternate route, especially in the rain, so we headed back home the way we'd come. Unfortunately, that entailed MANY spots of standing water. Our first "stopping point" occurred about 6 miles from home where we stopped on a crossover on a street median. Sat there for about 30 minutes, called Tom (who helpfully gave us the weather conditions at home!), check the radar from my phone, and came up with our first detour -- braving the interstate. Made it onto the freeway and to our exit without any problems. Then we encountered another delay -- only about 2 miles from home this time, but the direct street to our house was blocked by police cars. So we took another detour and got a bit closer. Then had another spot where the standing water was over the curbs, almost covering the neutral grounds. Another detour, then we headed home. We got within 4 blocks and absolutely could not go any further. At this point Maggie and I lost it and started to cry, which, of course, set Abby off. FINALLY (about 20 minutes later) I saw a sedan pass thru and figured he was lower to the ground than I was so we headed the rest of the way home. 2 hours after leaving the ballet. One of Maggie's friends mom's called me and asked if we'd gotten home -- they live on the next block and didn't get home until 9:30pm. The director of the ballet school's husband successfully flooded her car. So I suppose we didn't have it too bad!
Auction: Sunday was a much nicer day, despite more rain. We got to see how high the water had risen all over, and marvel (at least I did!) on the water still standing in people's yards. WOW! Church and football (go Saints!) followed. Headed to a re-scheduled piano lesson after football and then home where Abby had an idea to hold an art auction in our house. So we did. It was quite fun! I managed to sell some of my art from my class, Abby and Maggie sold some of theirs as well. I think Abby both spent and earned the most money! The art went for between 10 cents and 4 dollars. Hilarious. And I was able to let my art teacher know that I was now a marketable artist (ha ha!).
Batting eyelashes: Yesterday (Wednesday) I was quizzing Maggie over her science for her exam. For some reason I batted my eyelashes. She tried and couldn't do so. So I asked her how she expected to flirt with boys when she couldn't even bat her lashes. So she used her fingers to move her eyelids. Then Abby came downstairs and was able to bat her lashes. So Maggie kept trying and it just got to be (stupidly) more and more funny, to the point where we were laughing hysterically. Maggie looked more like she had sand under her lashes than that she was flirting. It went downhill from there when I asked her how she expected to flirt with boys. She decided that she'd make faces at them. And the faces she was making would NOT be successful. In any event, it made for an enjoyable time together!
In other news, tonight we're taking Tom to see the Transiberian Orchestra for his Christmas gift. Should be fun. He was able to pick the girls up from school at noon (early dismissal) so I could participate in my last art class in its entirety (she actually liked my painting!).
In any event, those are the highlights from this week! Have a safe and wonderful weekend......
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
what i forgot in the yearly update
I've already realized I forgot several "important" items from last year's update!
First, credit to Tom for lots of projects this year. He's painted the dining room and our bedroom, and is in the process of doing the entry and living room (which is actually a BIG project as the entry is two stories). He also managed the remodeling of the girls' bathroom (it used to be hideous -- picture a faux marble bathtub surround that looked like melted rocky road ice cream, with a too-small vanity, with BRIGHT yellow walls with yellow and gold speckled linoleum on the floor. Lovely! I think it was dated when the house was built in 1984, no? In any event, they now enjoy pale yellow walls with a blue ceiling, brown tile floor, and a properly sized vanity complete with granite top. Bathtub is surrounded in off-white and there are two mirrors and updated light fixtures (no more hollywood lighting!). Mom made the shower curtain (THANKS!) and it's so much nicer now!
Second, I turned 40. Since I really didn't like 39, 40 hasn't been so bad at all. Although I think I'm exhibiting some "mid-life" events -- I've been taking a drawing/painting class (I am so left-brained that this is truly a challenge!). I've found that I am apparently terrified of light and/or bright colors. My drawings are all dark. Sigh. A learning process! Also, I'm going to Mali with my dad in January. Last year my dad went on this trip with my uncle. It's run through the Tandana Foundation (tandandfoundation.org). For a person who doesn't even enjoy camping in cabins, this is quite a stretch! I am so thankful that I'm able to go as well as for my mom, who will be taking my place for the 2 weeks I'm gone (instead of having 2 weeks to herself!).
I'm certain I'm forgetting something else, but it will come to me in time! Meanwhile, next post will catch ya'll up with the past couple days/weeks (including the underwater adventure on our way home from The Nutcracker).....
First, credit to Tom for lots of projects this year. He's painted the dining room and our bedroom, and is in the process of doing the entry and living room (which is actually a BIG project as the entry is two stories). He also managed the remodeling of the girls' bathroom (it used to be hideous -- picture a faux marble bathtub surround that looked like melted rocky road ice cream, with a too-small vanity, with BRIGHT yellow walls with yellow and gold speckled linoleum on the floor. Lovely! I think it was dated when the house was built in 1984, no? In any event, they now enjoy pale yellow walls with a blue ceiling, brown tile floor, and a properly sized vanity complete with granite top. Bathtub is surrounded in off-white and there are two mirrors and updated light fixtures (no more hollywood lighting!). Mom made the shower curtain (THANKS!) and it's so much nicer now!
Second, I turned 40. Since I really didn't like 39, 40 hasn't been so bad at all. Although I think I'm exhibiting some "mid-life" events -- I've been taking a drawing/painting class (I am so left-brained that this is truly a challenge!). I've found that I am apparently terrified of light and/or bright colors. My drawings are all dark. Sigh. A learning process! Also, I'm going to Mali with my dad in January. Last year my dad went on this trip with my uncle. It's run through the Tandana Foundation (tandandfoundation.org). For a person who doesn't even enjoy camping in cabins, this is quite a stretch! I am so thankful that I'm able to go as well as for my mom, who will be taking my place for the 2 weeks I'm gone (instead of having 2 weeks to herself!).
I'm certain I'm forgetting something else, but it will come to me in time! Meanwhile, next post will catch ya'll up with the past couple days/weeks (including the underwater adventure on our way home from The Nutcracker).....
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Happy Holidays 2009!
Hard to believe another year has gone by - as with all trite statements, this one is true! We’ve had a busy and fun year, and look forward to even more in 2010! I’m either lazy or ‘going greener’ this year and didn’t print and send this update with my cards – we’ll see how it works out…
We enjoyed Christmas last year with my parents’ visit. And we had our typical “quiet” new year’s celebration – avoiding the people who shouldn’t be out driving by staying home where it’s safe, warm, and you can drink an affordable glass (or two!) of champagne. Bliss!
Our first “vacation” last year was over Mardi Gras holidays when we headed up to Arkansas to visit with Tom’s mom and Lou. We had a really nice visit with them, relaxing and seeing their new place. Harriett treated us to massages (WONDERFUL) which we both really enjoyed. The girls enjoyed all the card games as well as the bit of shopping we did.
I served as “cookie mom” for Maggie’s girl scout troop this year. Given that there were only 6 girls in the group, it wasn’t too difficult or taxing a job. Perhaps the hardest part was keeping Tom from all the cookies that he hadn’t ordered!
The big school events last spring were, for Abby, the 3rd grade talent show where she played her violin. Mom and dad came down for this one – when Maggie was in 3rd grade Kristin happened to be visiting and it’s really a fun little show, so this time I invited them to come along! For Maggie, it was the 6th grade’s Greek festival. The kids all studied various Greek figures (she did Echo), reported on them in costume, and we enjoyed a Greek luncheon.
Another “big” event for Maggie this year was getting glasses and contacts. For the past 2 years she’d had trouble at the regular doctor’s office with the eye check equipment. Last year we thought maybe it was just something that she had a problem with, but this year I ended up taking her to the eye doctor. Her prescription is stronger than mine, but she was able to leave the office with contacts and we ordered glasses the same day. Abby, somewhat happily, tagged along as the visit was on a day when there was no school.
For me, a big event last spring was my baptism. I was pleased that Tom and the girls were able to attend and that the church so welcomed me. Mom and dad even surprised me (immensely!) by sending a bouquet of flowers for me (and everyone else!) to enjoy.
The girls finished school the weekend before Memorial Day. They both participated in the ballet recital. Abby’s last “hurrah” at ballet as she decided to devote her time to piano and violin (sounds a bit like her mom!). We also enjoyed the piano recital, which is a nice, low-key event where the kids are definitely the focus. The teacher also arranges for various “groups” to perform, this year including drums, vocals, multiple pianos, and guitar and bass. With so many kids interested in being in bands, it’s both a great experience and a good way for them to show off their skills. Abby also participated in her violin recital, which is a much more formal event. She allowed me to accompany here which was fun (and helpful as we could practice together at home!). She really loves her violin and is getting quite good at it.
Summer continued at a busy pace. The girls participated in the summer camp at their school again this year. Maggie also participated in an intense dancing workshop, 5 days a week (AFTER camp all day!). Kept me running around town! After camp ended, Maggie headed to New York with my parents for her “trip with gramma and granddad” – promised to all grandkids at around 12 years old. Maggie chose New York. While there, they did a lot of tourist things, went to 4 Broadway shows, AND showed up on the Today Show (I have it tivoed if you’re interested!). They came home and mom and dad left and then the 4 of us headed on our holiday. This year we went to Washington, DC. Instead of flying, Tom had us traveling AMTRAK which was a fun adventure. Takes about 28 hours from New Orleans. Maggie and I shared a “room”, Abby and Tom were bunkmates. Our room had two tiny beds (during the day mine were the chairs). The toilet was right next to my bed, the sink folded up into the wall. It was certainly an adventure! We really did enjoy it, especially on the way there (on the way home, we were just ready to get home…). We managed to see about 28 museums collectively (none went to all of them), visited a friend of mine from college and friends of Tom from high school. We spent a week in DC, then headed to Virginia to a farm house where my parents met us for a few days of canoeing, tubing down a river, and chilling out. Then we headed back to DC for more of the “city”. It was great to break up the trip like that, especially as I was able to do laundry!
Soon after we got home school started – hard to believe I now have 7th and 4th graders! They’ve managed to earn good grades despite big courseloads (I think Maggie has more homework than I did in high school) and lots of projects. Maggie has also applied for high school next year (most of the high schools here start at 8th grade for the girls – she’s decided to forego the last year of elementary and “get used to” high school before it really “counts”).
Thanksgiving this year was in Houston with Tom’s family. I hadn’t been back to Houston since Hurricane Katrina, so that was nice for me! We stayed with one of Tom’s brothers and enjoyed several days with family doing a variety of movies, shopping, eating, and just enjoying one another. We missed his youngest sister and her family in California! Hopefully we’ll get to see them and meet the newest member of the family soon!
We will be spending Christmas with my family in North Carolina, returning home on January 2 (which allows me to watch OSU in the Rose Bowl with my parents!).
Our prayers for all of you are for a safe, happy, and fun-filled holiday! Keep in touch…
We enjoyed Christmas last year with my parents’ visit. And we had our typical “quiet” new year’s celebration – avoiding the people who shouldn’t be out driving by staying home where it’s safe, warm, and you can drink an affordable glass (or two!) of champagne. Bliss!
Our first “vacation” last year was over Mardi Gras holidays when we headed up to Arkansas to visit with Tom’s mom and Lou. We had a really nice visit with them, relaxing and seeing their new place. Harriett treated us to massages (WONDERFUL) which we both really enjoyed. The girls enjoyed all the card games as well as the bit of shopping we did.
I served as “cookie mom” for Maggie’s girl scout troop this year. Given that there were only 6 girls in the group, it wasn’t too difficult or taxing a job. Perhaps the hardest part was keeping Tom from all the cookies that he hadn’t ordered!
The big school events last spring were, for Abby, the 3rd grade talent show where she played her violin. Mom and dad came down for this one – when Maggie was in 3rd grade Kristin happened to be visiting and it’s really a fun little show, so this time I invited them to come along! For Maggie, it was the 6th grade’s Greek festival. The kids all studied various Greek figures (she did Echo), reported on them in costume, and we enjoyed a Greek luncheon.
Another “big” event for Maggie this year was getting glasses and contacts. For the past 2 years she’d had trouble at the regular doctor’s office with the eye check equipment. Last year we thought maybe it was just something that she had a problem with, but this year I ended up taking her to the eye doctor. Her prescription is stronger than mine, but she was able to leave the office with contacts and we ordered glasses the same day. Abby, somewhat happily, tagged along as the visit was on a day when there was no school.
For me, a big event last spring was my baptism. I was pleased that Tom and the girls were able to attend and that the church so welcomed me. Mom and dad even surprised me (immensely!) by sending a bouquet of flowers for me (and everyone else!) to enjoy.
The girls finished school the weekend before Memorial Day. They both participated in the ballet recital. Abby’s last “hurrah” at ballet as she decided to devote her time to piano and violin (sounds a bit like her mom!). We also enjoyed the piano recital, which is a nice, low-key event where the kids are definitely the focus. The teacher also arranges for various “groups” to perform, this year including drums, vocals, multiple pianos, and guitar and bass. With so many kids interested in being in bands, it’s both a great experience and a good way for them to show off their skills. Abby also participated in her violin recital, which is a much more formal event. She allowed me to accompany here which was fun (and helpful as we could practice together at home!). She really loves her violin and is getting quite good at it.
Summer continued at a busy pace. The girls participated in the summer camp at their school again this year. Maggie also participated in an intense dancing workshop, 5 days a week (AFTER camp all day!). Kept me running around town! After camp ended, Maggie headed to New York with my parents for her “trip with gramma and granddad” – promised to all grandkids at around 12 years old. Maggie chose New York. While there, they did a lot of tourist things, went to 4 Broadway shows, AND showed up on the Today Show (I have it tivoed if you’re interested!). They came home and mom and dad left and then the 4 of us headed on our holiday. This year we went to Washington, DC. Instead of flying, Tom had us traveling AMTRAK which was a fun adventure. Takes about 28 hours from New Orleans. Maggie and I shared a “room”, Abby and Tom were bunkmates. Our room had two tiny beds (during the day mine were the chairs). The toilet was right next to my bed, the sink folded up into the wall. It was certainly an adventure! We really did enjoy it, especially on the way there (on the way home, we were just ready to get home…). We managed to see about 28 museums collectively (none went to all of them), visited a friend of mine from college and friends of Tom from high school. We spent a week in DC, then headed to Virginia to a farm house where my parents met us for a few days of canoeing, tubing down a river, and chilling out. Then we headed back to DC for more of the “city”. It was great to break up the trip like that, especially as I was able to do laundry!
Soon after we got home school started – hard to believe I now have 7th and 4th graders! They’ve managed to earn good grades despite big courseloads (I think Maggie has more homework than I did in high school) and lots of projects. Maggie has also applied for high school next year (most of the high schools here start at 8th grade for the girls – she’s decided to forego the last year of elementary and “get used to” high school before it really “counts”).
Thanksgiving this year was in Houston with Tom’s family. I hadn’t been back to Houston since Hurricane Katrina, so that was nice for me! We stayed with one of Tom’s brothers and enjoyed several days with family doing a variety of movies, shopping, eating, and just enjoying one another. We missed his youngest sister and her family in California! Hopefully we’ll get to see them and meet the newest member of the family soon!
We will be spending Christmas with my family in North Carolina, returning home on January 2 (which allows me to watch OSU in the Rose Bowl with my parents!).
Our prayers for all of you are for a safe, happy, and fun-filled holiday! Keep in touch…
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Wednesday 9 December
This time of year is so crazy-busy! Even without having the girls dancing in Nutcracker this year, we're still up to our eyeballs in alligators. Sigh. In any event, here's catching you up since last week!
Last Tuesday Abby's choir caroled at the Royal Sonesta Hotel in the French Quarter at lunch time. I was able to go see them singing. Tom was in Dallas for training, so he didn't make it this year. They sang my favorite song to sing-along to (Feliz Navidad) but Abby kept motioning to me to NOT sing (if you've heard me sing it, you'll understand). I kept motioning like I was going to sing and/or dance and she just kept shaking her head. I think we were both laughing hysterically! Fun to see them all, of course!
Wednesday after Bible Study I made my quarterly trek to SAM's. While I appreciate the concept of bulk shopping, I HATE going there. So I definitely buy in bulk! Unfortunately, I do not have the storage space, so I have pantry "additions" in both my closet and in the extra bedroom upstairs. Amazingly enough, I do know where most stuff is, unless someone doesn't put it back where it belongs! After that trip I picked the girls up early from school as Maggie had an orthodontist appointment. Her teach are now straight and her bite has been corrected, they're working on more "cosmetic" stuff right now. They added brackets to her very back molars for some reason. Never having worn braces myself, I don't know much about them, BUT having worn one on my back for a few years for scoliosis, I appreciate the discomfort! Picked up Chinese food on the way home (fried rice is acceptably "mushy") and then got some ice cream to numb the mouth.
Thursday was my art class. Our assignment the previous week had been to paint a leaf on canvas with arcrylics. We first critiqued the paintings. Overall, I was pleased with mine, though I knew something was "missing" and couldn't figure out what it was (a thin line of very pale green outlining the leaf). Then we did ink sketches of leaves. Our "final" assignment is to gather 3-6 leaves and paint them on a large canvas. After doing three sketches -- one in black charcoal, and two in pastels. Silly me didn't realize that there are both "pastels" made of chalk as well as oil pastels (see how much of an artist I am?). So I did one sketch in black charcoal, one in chalk pastels, and one in oil pastels. If nothing else, I learned new techniques! I've started my painting -- painted the back "ground", sketched the leaves in charcoal (outline) and gone over the outline in paint. Tomorrow I'm home with the termite people (treatment, not getting rid of any pests thankfully), so I'll be working on it then.
Friday was my shot day. After finding out where to go to get my immunizations for Africa, I finally found the place (Passport Health -- they're a national company of private clinics that does this sort of work). Went for my appointment and was impressed -- they'd prepared a briefing book with my name and the country to which I'm traveling which includes information on all the vaccines required/recommended, travel alerts, climate, government, etc. And I got 4 shots -- a big poke with Hepatitis A and B, the adult Polio booster, Yellow Fever, and meningitis. I had 2 options for typhoid -- a shot that lasts for 2 years OR 4 pills that will last for 5 years. Went ahead with the capsules. Also got the pills for malaria to take with me. Go back again in January for the second round of hepatitis. They also sell packaged "kits" for sun/insect protection, digestive "woes", water sanitation, etc. Overall and very well-run place. I took the first typhoid pill (empty stomach, 2 hours after or one hour before eating) and, as indicated, was nauseous for the rest of the day. The second pill on Sunday didn't make me nauseous, but the 3rd yesterday did. Curious about the final one tomorrow!). Tom came home Friday evening (thankfully, as there was snow in Houston and those flights from Dallas were cancelled/delayed).
Maggie's camping trip was cancelled (due to how cold it was and winter warnings where the campsite is), so we had a quiet Saturday (aside from piano lessons). I worked on my drawings! Sunday was the church anniversary (40 years!) celebration and luncheon. Wonderful sermon on the topic of the local compared/contrasted with the universal church. One of those (many!) sermons that seems to speak right to your heart. I've been going to this church just under a year and it's always felt like "home" to me -- very welcoming, sound teaching, etc. The luncheon was nice as well. Maggie won a door prize -- the one we'd brought! Since it was stuff we all like, we were happy to have that one (hee hee!). Home to watch the final 3 hours of the Saints game -- even though the Redskins LOST the game more than the Saints WON it, we'll take the 12-0 record! Got to also see some of the Browns game, though I turned it off before they almost rallied in the 4th quarter, scoring 16 points.....
Monday was back to yoga and the normal "routine". Maggie went to see the girls basketball game at school immediately after school, so Abby and I made a detour to have coffee. Home for the evening. Yesterday the annual termite inspection was done. Whoopee. The girls got out of school at noon (b-ball teams were playing the northshore campus at the arena at 2:30 and 3:30), came home to clean their rooms (they were NOT thrilled!). Violin at 3:45, Celebration in the Oaks at 7:30. Last year for this choir concert was the day it was freezing, windy, and snowy here. In the tent where they perform it was cold and the wind was blowing all over the place. Much more pleasant this year!
Running out of time -- need to leave in 5 minutes and need to pack my stuff first. Never enough time, no?????
Last Tuesday Abby's choir caroled at the Royal Sonesta Hotel in the French Quarter at lunch time. I was able to go see them singing. Tom was in Dallas for training, so he didn't make it this year. They sang my favorite song to sing-along to (Feliz Navidad) but Abby kept motioning to me to NOT sing (if you've heard me sing it, you'll understand). I kept motioning like I was going to sing and/or dance and she just kept shaking her head. I think we were both laughing hysterically! Fun to see them all, of course!
Wednesday after Bible Study I made my quarterly trek to SAM's. While I appreciate the concept of bulk shopping, I HATE going there. So I definitely buy in bulk! Unfortunately, I do not have the storage space, so I have pantry "additions" in both my closet and in the extra bedroom upstairs. Amazingly enough, I do know where most stuff is, unless someone doesn't put it back where it belongs! After that trip I picked the girls up early from school as Maggie had an orthodontist appointment. Her teach are now straight and her bite has been corrected, they're working on more "cosmetic" stuff right now. They added brackets to her very back molars for some reason. Never having worn braces myself, I don't know much about them, BUT having worn one on my back for a few years for scoliosis, I appreciate the discomfort! Picked up Chinese food on the way home (fried rice is acceptably "mushy") and then got some ice cream to numb the mouth.
Thursday was my art class. Our assignment the previous week had been to paint a leaf on canvas with arcrylics. We first critiqued the paintings. Overall, I was pleased with mine, though I knew something was "missing" and couldn't figure out what it was (a thin line of very pale green outlining the leaf). Then we did ink sketches of leaves. Our "final" assignment is to gather 3-6 leaves and paint them on a large canvas. After doing three sketches -- one in black charcoal, and two in pastels. Silly me didn't realize that there are both "pastels" made of chalk as well as oil pastels (see how much of an artist I am?). So I did one sketch in black charcoal, one in chalk pastels, and one in oil pastels. If nothing else, I learned new techniques! I've started my painting -- painted the back "ground", sketched the leaves in charcoal (outline) and gone over the outline in paint. Tomorrow I'm home with the termite people (treatment, not getting rid of any pests thankfully), so I'll be working on it then.
Friday was my shot day. After finding out where to go to get my immunizations for Africa, I finally found the place (Passport Health -- they're a national company of private clinics that does this sort of work). Went for my appointment and was impressed -- they'd prepared a briefing book with my name and the country to which I'm traveling which includes information on all the vaccines required/recommended, travel alerts, climate, government, etc. And I got 4 shots -- a big poke with Hepatitis A and B, the adult Polio booster, Yellow Fever, and meningitis. I had 2 options for typhoid -- a shot that lasts for 2 years OR 4 pills that will last for 5 years. Went ahead with the capsules. Also got the pills for malaria to take with me. Go back again in January for the second round of hepatitis. They also sell packaged "kits" for sun/insect protection, digestive "woes", water sanitation, etc. Overall and very well-run place. I took the first typhoid pill (empty stomach, 2 hours after or one hour before eating) and, as indicated, was nauseous for the rest of the day. The second pill on Sunday didn't make me nauseous, but the 3rd yesterday did. Curious about the final one tomorrow!). Tom came home Friday evening (thankfully, as there was snow in Houston and those flights from Dallas were cancelled/delayed).
Maggie's camping trip was cancelled (due to how cold it was and winter warnings where the campsite is), so we had a quiet Saturday (aside from piano lessons). I worked on my drawings! Sunday was the church anniversary (40 years!) celebration and luncheon. Wonderful sermon on the topic of the local compared/contrasted with the universal church. One of those (many!) sermons that seems to speak right to your heart. I've been going to this church just under a year and it's always felt like "home" to me -- very welcoming, sound teaching, etc. The luncheon was nice as well. Maggie won a door prize -- the one we'd brought! Since it was stuff we all like, we were happy to have that one (hee hee!). Home to watch the final 3 hours of the Saints game -- even though the Redskins LOST the game more than the Saints WON it, we'll take the 12-0 record! Got to also see some of the Browns game, though I turned it off before they almost rallied in the 4th quarter, scoring 16 points.....
Monday was back to yoga and the normal "routine". Maggie went to see the girls basketball game at school immediately after school, so Abby and I made a detour to have coffee. Home for the evening. Yesterday the annual termite inspection was done. Whoopee. The girls got out of school at noon (b-ball teams were playing the northshore campus at the arena at 2:30 and 3:30), came home to clean their rooms (they were NOT thrilled!). Violin at 3:45, Celebration in the Oaks at 7:30. Last year for this choir concert was the day it was freezing, windy, and snowy here. In the tent where they perform it was cold and the wind was blowing all over the place. Much more pleasant this year!
Running out of time -- need to leave in 5 minutes and need to pack my stuff first. Never enough time, no?????
Monday, November 30, 2009
Back to reality after a great holiday!
Time to get back up to date! Hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving. We started off the week with a LAZY day – Abby only got out of her pajamas in order to take a shower and get into a clean pair. Mom and dad headed home and it was just the 4 of us……
Tuesday morning we got up and headed to Houston. Encountered our first delay when Tom got a call from work and had to pull over to take it (company policy). Then we needed to stop so that he could respond to a priority e-mail (yes, you can assume this request came from a non-American not on holiday). The girls and I sat quietly and patiently for the 45 minutes this took. The second delay was in Lake Charles where we were diverted onto the loop around the city. A bit of googling on the trusty Blackberry advised that there had been a propane truck that overturned on an exit ramp (on the way home we saw that this particular exit occurs immediately following a TALL bridge – imagine making a sharp turn coming off a steep ramp in a propane truck – NOT a pretty picture!). So another hour behind. Made it to Tom’s brother’s house a bit after 4. PHEW! Had dinner at their house and a relaxing evening.
Wednesday we enjoyed a movie day – we all went to see “2012” and were disappointed. The action lived up to the reviews, but the story was pretty lame. But nice for an afternoon of entertainment. Stopped at the grocery on the way home – what a NIGHTMARE – in order to procure the appropriate items for the feast the following day. Enjoyed dinner at a Thai restaurant and another relaxing evening.
Thursday we all headed to Tom’s other brother’s house for a day of football, family, and food. For me, the highlight of the day was watching Tom perform the “Hoedown Throwdown” with his niece providing music. He won the talent competition (need I mention he was unopposed?). We also did the annual Christmas gift exchange with the Webbs. You can tell the kiddos are all getting older as most of them received some sort of gift card! Headed back to our home away from home full and sleepy. Some got in the hot tub, the rest of us watched a movie and digested.
Friday morning the boys took off on some sort of adventure. The girls headed out shopping to an accessory store. A few dollars later we returned to the house for some lunch. The girls headed out for movie-afternoon – 4 went to see “Precious” and the rest of us to see “Blind Side”. Apparently, those of us who chose the “happy” movie were more satisfied. Truly a great story of how a family really helped a young man succeed. And true as well. We all met up for Chinese buffet afterwards (best way to feed 20+ people at once, no?). And once again back to the house. A rousing came of cards for a few of us and another evening of rest.
Saturday was time for us to head home. Again we met with a delay, though this time for tragic reasons – a flipped over mini-van with 5 fatalities, including 4 children. I-10 had re-opened by the time we hit Baton Rouge, but there were still delays. What a sad ending to a joyful holiday and, in this particular instance, what was a “new beginning” for a family returning to New Orleans.
Tom left to fly to Dallas Sunday morning for a training class. The girls and I headed to church and the grocery. Then home. I’d bribed them that we could do a bit of shopping IF their rooms were straightened up. They met my terms and we did a bit of crazy shopping with all the other crowds. They were able to use their gift-cards from their Webb cousins and I was able to FINALLY find some casual gym-type clothes for me that fit. And I got a new coffee maker – my old one was new 13 years ago. It’s lost a spring, leaks water, and has build up from hard water – I broke down and replaced it. Used the new one today and am quite happy with it!
We truly had a great holiday with the Webbs. Good to see everyone, good to be able to spend time with them, and good to have a nice place to stay. THANKS to all of you! Hope we didn’t inconvenience you too much!
Now onto the rest of the holiday-season mayhem……
Tuesday morning we got up and headed to Houston. Encountered our first delay when Tom got a call from work and had to pull over to take it (company policy). Then we needed to stop so that he could respond to a priority e-mail (yes, you can assume this request came from a non-American not on holiday). The girls and I sat quietly and patiently for the 45 minutes this took. The second delay was in Lake Charles where we were diverted onto the loop around the city. A bit of googling on the trusty Blackberry advised that there had been a propane truck that overturned on an exit ramp (on the way home we saw that this particular exit occurs immediately following a TALL bridge – imagine making a sharp turn coming off a steep ramp in a propane truck – NOT a pretty picture!). So another hour behind. Made it to Tom’s brother’s house a bit after 4. PHEW! Had dinner at their house and a relaxing evening.
Wednesday we enjoyed a movie day – we all went to see “2012” and were disappointed. The action lived up to the reviews, but the story was pretty lame. But nice for an afternoon of entertainment. Stopped at the grocery on the way home – what a NIGHTMARE – in order to procure the appropriate items for the feast the following day. Enjoyed dinner at a Thai restaurant and another relaxing evening.
Thursday we all headed to Tom’s other brother’s house for a day of football, family, and food. For me, the highlight of the day was watching Tom perform the “Hoedown Throwdown” with his niece providing music. He won the talent competition (need I mention he was unopposed?). We also did the annual Christmas gift exchange with the Webbs. You can tell the kiddos are all getting older as most of them received some sort of gift card! Headed back to our home away from home full and sleepy. Some got in the hot tub, the rest of us watched a movie and digested.
Friday morning the boys took off on some sort of adventure. The girls headed out shopping to an accessory store. A few dollars later we returned to the house for some lunch. The girls headed out for movie-afternoon – 4 went to see “Precious” and the rest of us to see “Blind Side”. Apparently, those of us who chose the “happy” movie were more satisfied. Truly a great story of how a family really helped a young man succeed. And true as well. We all met up for Chinese buffet afterwards (best way to feed 20+ people at once, no?). And once again back to the house. A rousing came of cards for a few of us and another evening of rest.
Saturday was time for us to head home. Again we met with a delay, though this time for tragic reasons – a flipped over mini-van with 5 fatalities, including 4 children. I-10 had re-opened by the time we hit Baton Rouge, but there were still delays. What a sad ending to a joyful holiday and, in this particular instance, what was a “new beginning” for a family returning to New Orleans.
Tom left to fly to Dallas Sunday morning for a training class. The girls and I headed to church and the grocery. Then home. I’d bribed them that we could do a bit of shopping IF their rooms were straightened up. They met my terms and we did a bit of crazy shopping with all the other crowds. They were able to use their gift-cards from their Webb cousins and I was able to FINALLY find some casual gym-type clothes for me that fit. And I got a new coffee maker – my old one was new 13 years ago. It’s lost a spring, leaks water, and has build up from hard water – I broke down and replaced it. Used the new one today and am quite happy with it!
We truly had a great holiday with the Webbs. Good to see everyone, good to be able to spend time with them, and good to have a nice place to stay. THANKS to all of you! Hope we didn’t inconvenience you too much!
Now onto the rest of the holiday-season mayhem……
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Football Weekend.....
What a week! It was certainly crazy-busy around here, but it's that time of year! Abby's school show was this week for the 1-4 grades (lower school). As a 4th grader, her class were the "stars" of the show and had the featured numbers. Along with 3 songs with the entire grade (Sea Cruise, Thriller, and Celebration) she sang with 4 other girls "We Are Family" -- complete with pink shiny dresses and fuzzy boas and silver shoes. The girls were all miked and were adorable. For the other grades, each class had a song/dance routine. The school puts on great shows every year and each year seems to be better than the last. The highlights for me were many -- I loved the 1st graders in bathrobes and shower caps singing "Splish Splash", the second graders as the Beatles (complete with body guards and screaming female fans), the Limbo 1st graders who knew how to improvise when their limbo stick didn't make it to the stage at the beginning of their song, the third graders in western wear doing the "Boot-scootin' Boogie" and "Hoedown Throwdown" (which Tom knew was Miley Cyrus even though I didn't!) AND, the costumes (wigs!) for the third graders who sang "Hair". I took mom and dad to the dress rehearsal Wednesday, the performance Thursday AND the performance Friday. My aunt came to Thursday's show and Tom made it back from Houston to go Friday.
In addition to THAT, Wednesday was Bible Study and Maggie had ballet, Thursday was drawing class and Maggie had ballet, and FINALLY on Friday there was more than a 30 minute stretch to sit down and relax. After taking Maggie's high school application in, picking up our Girl Scout fall products, and dropping of Maggie's camping stuff. She went on a 2 night camp out -- first one without her leaders (with GS provided counselors). She was really looking forward to it and I hope they had fun despite the rain we've had.
Yesterday mom and I watched OSU -- Tom and dad got Maggie's Christmas present, then took Abby to piano lessons (unfortunately getting a flat tire on the way), got the tire fixed. Tom and I met a friend for coffee in the afternoon -- her husband has worked with Tom, they used to live here but are now in Calgary. She's a concert pianist in town to study with her former teacher. She's also from Japan (her husband is British). Really nice for me to meet her. THEN to pick up the repaired tire and THEN for dinner.
Oh yeah, also -- this weekend my church is having a Bible Conference. I was able to attend Friday evening and really found it fulfilling. Today I'm going to both the 9 and 10am services to hear more. THEN for some Saints and a relaxing day. Mom and dad go home tomorrow, we leave Tuesday for Houston. WHEW!!!!!!
In addition to THAT, Wednesday was Bible Study and Maggie had ballet, Thursday was drawing class and Maggie had ballet, and FINALLY on Friday there was more than a 30 minute stretch to sit down and relax. After taking Maggie's high school application in, picking up our Girl Scout fall products, and dropping of Maggie's camping stuff. She went on a 2 night camp out -- first one without her leaders (with GS provided counselors). She was really looking forward to it and I hope they had fun despite the rain we've had.
Yesterday mom and I watched OSU -- Tom and dad got Maggie's Christmas present, then took Abby to piano lessons (unfortunately getting a flat tire on the way), got the tire fixed. Tom and I met a friend for coffee in the afternoon -- her husband has worked with Tom, they used to live here but are now in Calgary. She's a concert pianist in town to study with her former teacher. She's also from Japan (her husband is British). Really nice for me to meet her. THEN to pick up the repaired tire and THEN for dinner.
Oh yeah, also -- this weekend my church is having a Bible Conference. I was able to attend Friday evening and really found it fulfilling. Today I'm going to both the 9 and 10am services to hear more. THEN for some Saints and a relaxing day. Mom and dad go home tomorrow, we leave Tuesday for Houston. WHEW!!!!!!
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
i cannot spell
Just realized I've misspelled the "title" to the last post. sigh.
The week is off to a GREAT start. The most exciting news is that I've committed to going to Mali with my dad in January for 2 weeks on a "volunteer vacation." My dad went on this same trek last year with my uncle and signed up to go again. When I heard that, coupled with the fact that my uncle wasn't going again this year, I though, "why not me?" Then I realized that we'd need someone here to take my place (not that I'm THAT indispensable, but if you've ever done the single-working-parent routine, it's TOUGH. SO, my mom got volunteered (THANKS MOM!). She's questioning what she's gotten into a bit! But she'll get time with the girls, the girls will get time with her, I won't be around to annoy anyone, and Tom and the girls will also get time together. AND I get to be with my dad.
That all got finalized last night. Today we got the girls off to school and walked/jogged. Mom and I went to a meeting with my new mom's group regarding boundaries. Something we're all aware of to some extent, but interesting with regards to the conversations that arose from it. Also interesting for me, hearing my mom's comments, to learn how many of our boundaries are learned! We're home for a short bit, then off for car pool, violin, and then ballet.
Oh, I also got my car fixed yesterday. Thankfully all but the 25000 service was still warranty! I got a new motor for my power window, a new brake light, some fixing of parts of the front axles that were "squeaking" AND my sunroof now works properly. Convenient to have mom and dad's car here so that we could drop it off in the morning and have another vehicle available. My parents ROCK.
Have a great day!
The week is off to a GREAT start. The most exciting news is that I've committed to going to Mali with my dad in January for 2 weeks on a "volunteer vacation." My dad went on this same trek last year with my uncle and signed up to go again. When I heard that, coupled with the fact that my uncle wasn't going again this year, I though, "why not me?" Then I realized that we'd need someone here to take my place (not that I'm THAT indispensable, but if you've ever done the single-working-parent routine, it's TOUGH. SO, my mom got volunteered (THANKS MOM!). She's questioning what she's gotten into a bit! But she'll get time with the girls, the girls will get time with her, I won't be around to annoy anyone, and Tom and the girls will also get time together. AND I get to be with my dad.
That all got finalized last night. Today we got the girls off to school and walked/jogged. Mom and I went to a meeting with my new mom's group regarding boundaries. Something we're all aware of to some extent, but interesting with regards to the conversations that arose from it. Also interesting for me, hearing my mom's comments, to learn how many of our boundaries are learned! We're home for a short bit, then off for car pool, violin, and then ballet.
Oh, I also got my car fixed yesterday. Thankfully all but the 25000 service was still warranty! I got a new motor for my power window, a new brake light, some fixing of parts of the front axles that were "squeaking" AND my sunroof now works properly. Convenient to have mom and dad's car here so that we could drop it off in the morning and have another vehicle available. My parents ROCK.
Have a great day!
Monday, November 16, 2009
biginning a busy week
Happy Monday! Another jam-packed week here. WHEW! But a great weekend. Friday after school Maggie went home with a friend to spend the night. Abby brought a friend here. Quiet evening had at our house, Maggie went to a fair with her friend and rode rides all evening. I picked Maggie up Saturday for ballet class and went to purchase sweats for me at Academy -- tried on about 8 pairs and didn't find any I like. I had to get rid of my navy ones because they were both stretched out and bleached from assertive laundering. In any event, didn't find any I liked. So I picked Maggie up at ballet and we went home for a quick bite to eat and then a trip to piano lessons. After that stops at the gas station and Walgreens (so what else is new?). Then home for the evening -- two girls the night after sleepovers makes for relatively quiet evenings!
Yesterday Tom left early for Houston for a workshop and meetings and presentation there. The girls and I went to church. This week we're having a Bible conference with Charlie Bing. I'm planning to attend at least one of the extra meetings, probably Friday night. After church we headed to the store as Maggie is growing out of all her clothes. It was a VERY quick trip as we "had" to be home by 12 for the Saints game. She managed to find 4 shirts that fit, but after trying on 10 more pairs of sweats, I still found none that fit me. Sigh. The other good news was that I figured out what part of the problem with my car is -- it's going in the shop today for a variety of things, but one of them is now "fixed". The problem was that the automatic passenger doors and the rear hatchback weren't opening automatically with the buttons in the car next to the doors -- only via the key remote and the buttons above the rearview mirror. I went to shut Abby's door at the store and noticed a button that is labelled "ON/OFF" that was in the pushed-in position. On a whim I pushed it and whoo-hoo! problem fixed. We sat in the parking lot and tried out all the buttons. So now I only have 3 concerns for the shop -- my window, the sun roof, and a burnt out brake light.
Came home to watch the Saints win. Not too bad! Mom and dad arrived about an hour later and we spent quite a bit of time talking about Africa. I actually cooked dinner (pretty good -- mashed taters, roasted brussels sprouts and onion, and pork roast) and had a quiet evening. WHEW!
Today is the car shop, grocery, yoga, carpool, and ballet.......Have a great Monday!
Yesterday Tom left early for Houston for a workshop and meetings and presentation there. The girls and I went to church. This week we're having a Bible conference with Charlie Bing. I'm planning to attend at least one of the extra meetings, probably Friday night. After church we headed to the store as Maggie is growing out of all her clothes. It was a VERY quick trip as we "had" to be home by 12 for the Saints game. She managed to find 4 shirts that fit, but after trying on 10 more pairs of sweats, I still found none that fit me. Sigh. The other good news was that I figured out what part of the problem with my car is -- it's going in the shop today for a variety of things, but one of them is now "fixed". The problem was that the automatic passenger doors and the rear hatchback weren't opening automatically with the buttons in the car next to the doors -- only via the key remote and the buttons above the rearview mirror. I went to shut Abby's door at the store and noticed a button that is labelled "ON/OFF" that was in the pushed-in position. On a whim I pushed it and whoo-hoo! problem fixed. We sat in the parking lot and tried out all the buttons. So now I only have 3 concerns for the shop -- my window, the sun roof, and a burnt out brake light.
Came home to watch the Saints win. Not too bad! Mom and dad arrived about an hour later and we spent quite a bit of time talking about Africa. I actually cooked dinner (pretty good -- mashed taters, roasted brussels sprouts and onion, and pork roast) and had a quiet evening. WHEW!
Today is the car shop, grocery, yoga, carpool, and ballet.......Have a great Monday!
Friday, November 13, 2009
almost back to normal
Nothing like a bad cold to get you down! It's been in our house for the past couple weeks and hit me like a semi Sunday morning. Sigh. Did have a fun Saturday -- managed the ballet and piano runs, then Tom and I went to an auction for my ladies' club. Both a silent and live auction were held. The "bigger" part of the evening was the fact that we'd left the girls at home alone for the first time in the evening. Maggie took the red cross babysitting class last January, but this was the first time we'd actually left them. No problems........
Sunday, however, came on hard (and no, I didn't even have ONE drink Saturday night!). Managed to get up and take Tom downtown to pick up his car (he'd left it downtown Friday). Got home and collapsed back into bed. Woke up again about 11am, in bed with my jacket AND shoes still on. And not quite recalling the drive home from downtown. Perhaps I shouldn't have been driving???? In any event, spent the bulk of Sunday in a horizontal position. Abby went to a friend's house to practice for their school show. I stayed horizontal and watched football (go Saints!). Tom and the girls managed dinner and clean-up and I managed to get to the table to eat some of it. Nice to see them come together!
Monday I was able to take the girls to school and make a quick grocery run. Home and back to bed for a while, though I managed to sit up on the couch for the bulk of the day rather than lying on it. Tropical Storm Ida was making its way north and the news channels were in an uproar that it would come here and be horrible. So the ballet teacher canceled class for Maggie. One less trip to make. Of course, all we ended up with was a tiny bit of rain and lots of wind. And my storm shutters are still closed, making my house rather dark.....Tom is definitely "Mr. Be-Prepared".....
Tuesday I again took the girls to school and headed back home. Lazy day sitting on the couch yet again. Took Abby to violin after school and Maggie to ballet in the evening -- ALMOST back to normal....Wednesday morning I actually managed 20 minutes of a yoga video and enjoyed being out and about (and in clothes other than sweats!) at Bible Study. Errands at the mall followed, then picking up the girls for our weekly Chinese dinner. Ballet again in the evening.
Yesterday was even better -- I was able to ride the bike at the gym for 20 minutes, then ran home for a shower before heading back to the JCC for my drawing/painting class. The other two students came in and I recognized one as having a Dutch accent -- she was surprised as most people assume it's German. I explained we'd lived there 3 years. The other gal is from Belgium and her accent is sort of a cross between a French and Dutch person's (makes sense given the country's history). Yesterday we learned a bit about Matisse. Later in his life he lost his eyesight and became bedridden. Unable to continue painting, he turned to making cut-out art with scissors. Our assignment was to deconstruct one of his paintings (a portrait of his wife) into pieces of construction paper -- head, neck, ears, hair, eyes, nose, mouth, dress, collar, decorations on dress, etc. -- each with a piece of paper that we then glued onto a final piece of paper. And then the three of us evaluated what we'd done. Overall I'm pleased with my results. Our homework assignment is to sketch 3 pictures of our hand in a relaxed position with a sharpie -- no erasing allowed! Yikes! I've done two of them and given my left-brained-ness, I'm actually pleased with what they look like. In any event, the class is challenging me in ways I'm not normally challenged!
Today I'm almost back to normal. Tom braved sleeping in our bed again last night and I didn't cough too much for him to leave. I managed both riding the bike for 30 minutes AND my yoga class today, followed by a run to Michael's for charcoal and the grocery. Picked up Abby and her friend at school today (to spend the night) while Maggie dropped her stuff in the car and is spending the night at a friend's house. Tomorrow is ballet and piano. Sunday mom and dad come! Looking forward to visiting with them very much.
Anyways, no great deep thoughts today, just quite thankful for several things: that I'm feeling better, that I didn't have any sort of flu, that my family loves me, and that I have all that I need and more. Hope you are all so blessed......
Sunday, however, came on hard (and no, I didn't even have ONE drink Saturday night!). Managed to get up and take Tom downtown to pick up his car (he'd left it downtown Friday). Got home and collapsed back into bed. Woke up again about 11am, in bed with my jacket AND shoes still on. And not quite recalling the drive home from downtown. Perhaps I shouldn't have been driving???? In any event, spent the bulk of Sunday in a horizontal position. Abby went to a friend's house to practice for their school show. I stayed horizontal and watched football (go Saints!). Tom and the girls managed dinner and clean-up and I managed to get to the table to eat some of it. Nice to see them come together!
Monday I was able to take the girls to school and make a quick grocery run. Home and back to bed for a while, though I managed to sit up on the couch for the bulk of the day rather than lying on it. Tropical Storm Ida was making its way north and the news channels were in an uproar that it would come here and be horrible. So the ballet teacher canceled class for Maggie. One less trip to make. Of course, all we ended up with was a tiny bit of rain and lots of wind. And my storm shutters are still closed, making my house rather dark.....Tom is definitely "Mr. Be-Prepared".....
Tuesday I again took the girls to school and headed back home. Lazy day sitting on the couch yet again. Took Abby to violin after school and Maggie to ballet in the evening -- ALMOST back to normal....Wednesday morning I actually managed 20 minutes of a yoga video and enjoyed being out and about (and in clothes other than sweats!) at Bible Study. Errands at the mall followed, then picking up the girls for our weekly Chinese dinner. Ballet again in the evening.
Yesterday was even better -- I was able to ride the bike at the gym for 20 minutes, then ran home for a shower before heading back to the JCC for my drawing/painting class. The other two students came in and I recognized one as having a Dutch accent -- she was surprised as most people assume it's German. I explained we'd lived there 3 years. The other gal is from Belgium and her accent is sort of a cross between a French and Dutch person's (makes sense given the country's history). Yesterday we learned a bit about Matisse. Later in his life he lost his eyesight and became bedridden. Unable to continue painting, he turned to making cut-out art with scissors. Our assignment was to deconstruct one of his paintings (a portrait of his wife) into pieces of construction paper -- head, neck, ears, hair, eyes, nose, mouth, dress, collar, decorations on dress, etc. -- each with a piece of paper that we then glued onto a final piece of paper. And then the three of us evaluated what we'd done. Overall I'm pleased with my results. Our homework assignment is to sketch 3 pictures of our hand in a relaxed position with a sharpie -- no erasing allowed! Yikes! I've done two of them and given my left-brained-ness, I'm actually pleased with what they look like. In any event, the class is challenging me in ways I'm not normally challenged!
Today I'm almost back to normal. Tom braved sleeping in our bed again last night and I didn't cough too much for him to leave. I managed both riding the bike for 30 minutes AND my yoga class today, followed by a run to Michael's for charcoal and the grocery. Picked up Abby and her friend at school today (to spend the night) while Maggie dropped her stuff in the car and is spending the night at a friend's house. Tomorrow is ballet and piano. Sunday mom and dad come! Looking forward to visiting with them very much.
Anyways, no great deep thoughts today, just quite thankful for several things: that I'm feeling better, that I didn't have any sort of flu, that my family loves me, and that I have all that I need and more. Hope you are all so blessed......
Friday, November 6, 2009
Just a quick one....
My younger daughter Abby makes me smile. Most of the time. But here's my sweet Abby story:
Like many people, I take a "list." to the grocery. And like many people, it is constantly getting added to, even in the car on the way to school. So I'll have one or the other girl add to it -- usually Maggie as she sits in the front. However, a couple months ago Maggie wasn't in the car, so Abby got to add to my grocery list. After she was done, she folded it up and wrote "Grocery List" on the outside. When I opened it up, along with the items I needed to purchase, she'd written "I Love You! Abby" at the top. The next time I asked her to add something to the list, she instead added a typical Abby-witticism -- unfortunately, I threw away that list and don't remember what she'd written. But this morning, once again I needed something added to the list (in this case, milk). Although Maggie was in the car, I had Abby write it on the list and didn't look until I got to the store after dropping them off and going to yoga class. So here's the message:
"milk (I LOVE you!!!) (Even though you make us drink ucky blucky yucky clucky mucky (you get the picture) milk.)"
Where does she come up with this stuff (and yes, both my girls are like me and HATE milk)........
Have a great weekend!
Like many people, I take a "list." to the grocery. And like many people, it is constantly getting added to, even in the car on the way to school. So I'll have one or the other girl add to it -- usually Maggie as she sits in the front. However, a couple months ago Maggie wasn't in the car, so Abby got to add to my grocery list. After she was done, she folded it up and wrote "Grocery List" on the outside. When I opened it up, along with the items I needed to purchase, she'd written "I Love You! Abby" at the top. The next time I asked her to add something to the list, she instead added a typical Abby-witticism -- unfortunately, I threw away that list and don't remember what she'd written. But this morning, once again I needed something added to the list (in this case, milk). Although Maggie was in the car, I had Abby write it on the list and didn't look until I got to the store after dropping them off and going to yoga class. So here's the message:
"milk (I LOVE you!!!) (Even though you make us drink ucky blucky yucky clucky mucky (you get the picture) milk.)"
Where does she come up with this stuff (and yes, both my girls are like me and HATE milk)........
Have a great weekend!
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Thursday again
It's already November 5? WOW! Yet another busy week -- they are all that way, I'm afraid!
Monday was the typical carpool/yoga/grocery/cook dinner/eat mine for lunch/car pool/ballet day, EXCEPT Maggie has either had a cold or a reaction to the flu vaccine and was feeling terrible, so she took Monday off. PHEW! Nice to not have to make the extra drive! Tuesday morning I went to the dentist (look mom, no cavities!). Then to a meeting where we had a discussion on raising children in today's society. Quite interesting, lots of "take-aways" for me, and wonderful to be with a group that shares a lot of the same parenting values Tom and I do. I'm certainly not a perfect parent, but some things I see/hear from my daughters alarms me. Or else I'm just becoming even more square in my old age.....After school Abby had her violin lesson AND started the second book! She's playing the last song in the first book (quite a difficult one) for the recital in December and allowing me to accompany her as well. The first song in the second book is quite easy -- she's already got all the notes, needs to work on the rhythm and bowing.....Maggie was still feeling poorly, so I kept her from ballet and we had another early night.
Yesterday was my Bible study -- always uplifting for me, even when we end up sharing personal tragedy -- there's something to be gained from every situation and finding that nugget is what strengthens us. After that I headed to find my sister's Christmas gift -- I'm quite happy with it, we'll see if she's as happy or if it will become MINE! hee hee. Then to get the girls and stop for Chinese food on the way home. Tom was working late, so Abby and I spent the time during Maggie's ballet class at Starbucks and we were home for the evening.
Today is my doctor's appointment and the girls see the dentist this afternoon. Another ballet class this evening, but it's the one time during the week we're able to carpool as there is no Nutcracker practices (the girl we carpool with is Clara again this year). WHEW!!!!!!!
Have a great rest of the week!
Monday was the typical carpool/yoga/grocery/cook dinner/eat mine for lunch/car pool/ballet day, EXCEPT Maggie has either had a cold or a reaction to the flu vaccine and was feeling terrible, so she took Monday off. PHEW! Nice to not have to make the extra drive! Tuesday morning I went to the dentist (look mom, no cavities!). Then to a meeting where we had a discussion on raising children in today's society. Quite interesting, lots of "take-aways" for me, and wonderful to be with a group that shares a lot of the same parenting values Tom and I do. I'm certainly not a perfect parent, but some things I see/hear from my daughters alarms me. Or else I'm just becoming even more square in my old age.....After school Abby had her violin lesson AND started the second book! She's playing the last song in the first book (quite a difficult one) for the recital in December and allowing me to accompany her as well. The first song in the second book is quite easy -- she's already got all the notes, needs to work on the rhythm and bowing.....Maggie was still feeling poorly, so I kept her from ballet and we had another early night.
Yesterday was my Bible study -- always uplifting for me, even when we end up sharing personal tragedy -- there's something to be gained from every situation and finding that nugget is what strengthens us. After that I headed to find my sister's Christmas gift -- I'm quite happy with it, we'll see if she's as happy or if it will become MINE! hee hee. Then to get the girls and stop for Chinese food on the way home. Tom was working late, so Abby and I spent the time during Maggie's ballet class at Starbucks and we were home for the evening.
Today is my doctor's appointment and the girls see the dentist this afternoon. Another ballet class this evening, but it's the one time during the week we're able to carpool as there is no Nutcracker practices (the girl we carpool with is Clara again this year). WHEW!!!!!!!
Have a great rest of the week!
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
I'm it, apparently (thanks, Lauri!)
Here's how the game works: answer the following 5 questions and then keep the game going by tagging 2 more people. Here goes...
1. What were you doing 10 years ago?
In 1999 I was working on getting pregnant with baby #2 (working being the operative word as Tom was at that time in a job in which he traveled about 50% of the time). Since Abby was born in 2000, it was a successful endeavor.
I was also working for Shell in a programming role (yikes!). Living in the Montrose/Museum District area of Houston.
2. What are 5 things on your to-do list?
Finish reading the Bible (3rd time through -- taking me a while this time)
Put photos in picture albums
Practice patience with my family
Keep my mouth shut more and my ears open more
Package up a BUNCH of stuff for Goodwill
3. What are snacks you enjoy?
On a popcorn kick right now. Need to have a bit of chocolate every day. Also like soy crisps.
4. What are the places you have lived?
Born in Pittsburgh, PA
Worthington, OH from 4-10
Westlake, OH from 10-18
Toledo, OH for undergraduate (summers either in Westlake or Charlotte, NC after my parents moved in 1989)
Columbus, OH for graduate school (1991-1993)
Houston, TX from 1993-2001
The Hague, The Netherlands from 2001-2004
New Orleans, LA for part of 2004
Metairie, LA from 2004-now, aside from six months in 2005 when we were back in Houston (after hurricane Katrina)
5. What are 5 things you would do if you became a billionaire?
Figure out how much our family "really" needs (college, retirement, how much could be put in trust to allow for living off of interest).
Enjoy more frequent pampering (spa vacations, massage, pedicure)
Hire someone to do more chores -- laundry, ironing
Provide for our extended family
Vacation more often
OK, well my game of tag is up! Since the only one I know who actively blogs tagged me, unless some random person picks this up, I'm a dead end.........my life is so lame!
1. What were you doing 10 years ago?
In 1999 I was working on getting pregnant with baby #2 (working being the operative word as Tom was at that time in a job in which he traveled about 50% of the time). Since Abby was born in 2000, it was a successful endeavor.
I was also working for Shell in a programming role (yikes!). Living in the Montrose/Museum District area of Houston.
2. What are 5 things on your to-do list?
Finish reading the Bible (3rd time through -- taking me a while this time)
Put photos in picture albums
Practice patience with my family
Keep my mouth shut more and my ears open more
Package up a BUNCH of stuff for Goodwill
3. What are snacks you enjoy?
On a popcorn kick right now. Need to have a bit of chocolate every day. Also like soy crisps.
4. What are the places you have lived?
Born in Pittsburgh, PA
Worthington, OH from 4-10
Westlake, OH from 10-18
Toledo, OH for undergraduate (summers either in Westlake or Charlotte, NC after my parents moved in 1989)
Columbus, OH for graduate school (1991-1993)
Houston, TX from 1993-2001
The Hague, The Netherlands from 2001-2004
New Orleans, LA for part of 2004
Metairie, LA from 2004-now, aside from six months in 2005 when we were back in Houston (after hurricane Katrina)
5. What are 5 things you would do if you became a billionaire?
Figure out how much our family "really" needs (college, retirement, how much could be put in trust to allow for living off of interest).
Enjoy more frequent pampering (spa vacations, massage, pedicure)
Hire someone to do more chores -- laundry, ironing
Provide for our extended family
Vacation more often
OK, well my game of tag is up! Since the only one I know who actively blogs tagged me, unless some random person picks this up, I'm a dead end.........my life is so lame!
Friday, October 30, 2009
where did october go?????
Can't believe it's almost November! Yikes.....
Had a good remainder of the week. On Thursday (my "day off" until my painting class starts in 2 weeks) I got to go have lunch with Tom. Maggie wonders why we don't do this every week. When we first moved to Holland, our offices were across the hall from each other and we had lunch regularly. Since most of my team hadn't started yet and I knew next to no one there, it was generous of him to include me in his daily lunch plans! In any event, I enjoyed seeing him mid-day and always like to spend time with him -- he IS my favorite, of course!
The rest of Thursday passed normally. Picked the girls up from school and we stopped to purchase our pumpkins for jack o lanterns -- Thursday morning I'd realized that we'd failed to get them (whoops!). This year I got a teeny one. Last year I got one that had all these bumps on it and brought it home to find it to be a gourd that was impossible to cut into. So I drew a design on it. In any event, we came home after that and re-heated Chinese food for dinner. Took Maggie and a friend to ballet and came home for the evening. Yea!
Today was back-to-busy. Gym and yoga this morning, followed by a library run and grocery trip. Home for an hour or so to bathe, drink coffee, and have an early lunch, then back to school for Abby's halloween party. Maggie's party was at the same time but I wasn't "permitted" to attend -- her first school "dance" -- for the 7th and 8th graders. Don't tell, but another mom and I spied on them a short bit! Hard to see them growing up. After school we headed to the doctor. Abby's got a bump on her foot that is painful and yes, it is a bunion (can you believe -- she's 9 and have NEVER worn pointy-toed high-heeled shoes). The doctor isn't overly concerned, checked her school shoes for fit and advised to take advil for any discomfort and use the pads from the grocery -- keep up on it and come back if it worsens. Sigh. My mom has big-time foot problems, but her's didn't really occur until she was 60, not NINE YEARS OLD! In further news, we did go ahead and get the flu mist and swine flu shot for both girls today. They've never had a flu shot (neither have I), but it's really been going around school and I wanted the swine flu vaccine for them, so might as well get them both. Stopped at Walgreen's on the way home for foot pads and then carved pumpkins! I have to say that my tiny little pumpkin is really cute. Roasted the seed, re-heated a casserole, and have started laundry. Day must be close to being done, no?
Tomorrow we plan for haircuts, then Maggie has ballet, then piano, and each is having a friend come for trick-or-treat. Sunday we're taking Tom to CATS for his birthday present -- first time for Broadway to be back in New Orleans since 2005.....
Have a great weekend!
Had a good remainder of the week. On Thursday (my "day off" until my painting class starts in 2 weeks) I got to go have lunch with Tom. Maggie wonders why we don't do this every week. When we first moved to Holland, our offices were across the hall from each other and we had lunch regularly. Since most of my team hadn't started yet and I knew next to no one there, it was generous of him to include me in his daily lunch plans! In any event, I enjoyed seeing him mid-day and always like to spend time with him -- he IS my favorite, of course!
The rest of Thursday passed normally. Picked the girls up from school and we stopped to purchase our pumpkins for jack o lanterns -- Thursday morning I'd realized that we'd failed to get them (whoops!). This year I got a teeny one. Last year I got one that had all these bumps on it and brought it home to find it to be a gourd that was impossible to cut into. So I drew a design on it. In any event, we came home after that and re-heated Chinese food for dinner. Took Maggie and a friend to ballet and came home for the evening. Yea!
Today was back-to-busy. Gym and yoga this morning, followed by a library run and grocery trip. Home for an hour or so to bathe, drink coffee, and have an early lunch, then back to school for Abby's halloween party. Maggie's party was at the same time but I wasn't "permitted" to attend -- her first school "dance" -- for the 7th and 8th graders. Don't tell, but another mom and I spied on them a short bit! Hard to see them growing up. After school we headed to the doctor. Abby's got a bump on her foot that is painful and yes, it is a bunion (can you believe -- she's 9 and have NEVER worn pointy-toed high-heeled shoes). The doctor isn't overly concerned, checked her school shoes for fit and advised to take advil for any discomfort and use the pads from the grocery -- keep up on it and come back if it worsens. Sigh. My mom has big-time foot problems, but her's didn't really occur until she was 60, not NINE YEARS OLD! In further news, we did go ahead and get the flu mist and swine flu shot for both girls today. They've never had a flu shot (neither have I), but it's really been going around school and I wanted the swine flu vaccine for them, so might as well get them both. Stopped at Walgreen's on the way home for foot pads and then carved pumpkins! I have to say that my tiny little pumpkin is really cute. Roasted the seed, re-heated a casserole, and have started laundry. Day must be close to being done, no?
Tomorrow we plan for haircuts, then Maggie has ballet, then piano, and each is having a friend come for trick-or-treat. Sunday we're taking Tom to CATS for his birthday present -- first time for Broadway to be back in New Orleans since 2005.....
Have a great weekend!
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Wednesday
I love Wednesdays. Mid-week fresher-upper of a day, especially during the school year when my Bible Study group meets. I keep mentioning that we're studying the book of John this year and I find not only the book itself interesting, but the discussion was have are so valuable. We come from such different backgrounds, yet all love the same Bible. Wednesday are also the days that my house gets cleaned -- nothing better than that! I am so thankful that we're able to have someone else do the cleaning -- while I like a certain level of clean, I neither have the patience nor am willing to take the time to get it to that level of clean. And we also usually order chinese food for dinner on our way home from school, so no cooking!
Yesterday was, of course, busy, although we were able to carpool somewhat for ballet which gave me a bit more "down time" at home. In the morning was the normal routine of packing lunches, feeding children, doing carpool, and heading for the gym. After that I went to my doctor's office -- our insurance carrier had "dropped" her from it's "list" (no reason why, she's still in the same office, same everything -- go figure). I really like this particular doctor, and wasn't very happy about it. I've been delaying my check-up because I hadn't found a new doctor. Finally, I found one that had been recommended to me by two friends, so I went to get a copy of my records. I was talking to the receptionist and asked whether or not our insurance was covered and she told me that while it wasn't, the doctor was, for existing patients, charging a flat fee for services ($35 more than my co-pay), and sending all lab work to "accepted" labs. So I went ahead and made an appointment. If I ever have a problem that requires other procedures, I will have to cross that bridge. But, for now, I am healthy and happy to be able to see a doctor I like and trust. PHEW!
THEN I went to the library and came home. Had vague thoughts of joining Tom for lunch, but decided to delay until Thursday when I have plenty of time and a "clearer" afternoon. So I relaxed a bit, had lunch, and then headed to get the girls. We went to Abby's violin lesson -- she really loves the violin and you can tell by how well she's playing it. She's going to play in the Christmas recital again this year and is again allowing my to accompany her. Then we came home, stopping on the way for dinner. Maggie was picked up for ballet, then I went to get her at 7 and we were DONE!!!!!
Starting Friday we're having "doctor" week here. Friday we're taking Abby to the doctor to look at her feet -- she's been having some pain and we want to get it checked out. Tuesday I go to the dentist. Wednesday the girls go to the dentist, and Thursday I go to the doctor. For a healthy family, we sure are going to the doctor a LOT!
In any event, have a blessed Wednesday and rest of the week!
Yesterday was, of course, busy, although we were able to carpool somewhat for ballet which gave me a bit more "down time" at home. In the morning was the normal routine of packing lunches, feeding children, doing carpool, and heading for the gym. After that I went to my doctor's office -- our insurance carrier had "dropped" her from it's "list" (no reason why, she's still in the same office, same everything -- go figure). I really like this particular doctor, and wasn't very happy about it. I've been delaying my check-up because I hadn't found a new doctor. Finally, I found one that had been recommended to me by two friends, so I went to get a copy of my records. I was talking to the receptionist and asked whether or not our insurance was covered and she told me that while it wasn't, the doctor was, for existing patients, charging a flat fee for services ($35 more than my co-pay), and sending all lab work to "accepted" labs. So I went ahead and made an appointment. If I ever have a problem that requires other procedures, I will have to cross that bridge. But, for now, I am healthy and happy to be able to see a doctor I like and trust. PHEW!
THEN I went to the library and came home. Had vague thoughts of joining Tom for lunch, but decided to delay until Thursday when I have plenty of time and a "clearer" afternoon. So I relaxed a bit, had lunch, and then headed to get the girls. We went to Abby's violin lesson -- she really loves the violin and you can tell by how well she's playing it. She's going to play in the Christmas recital again this year and is again allowing my to accompany her. Then we came home, stopping on the way for dinner. Maggie was picked up for ballet, then I went to get her at 7 and we were DONE!!!!!
Starting Friday we're having "doctor" week here. Friday we're taking Abby to the doctor to look at her feet -- she's been having some pain and we want to get it checked out. Tuesday I go to the dentist. Wednesday the girls go to the dentist, and Thursday I go to the doctor. For a healthy family, we sure are going to the doctor a LOT!
In any event, have a blessed Wednesday and rest of the week!
Monday, October 26, 2009
it's been a week.....
Either it was an incredibly busy week OR I was just lazy! Maybe a combination of both, I think. One of my friends put out a blog about the "busyness" of being an at-home mom versus a working mom. She, like me, as done both and it really is amazing how different life seems from both sides of it. I suppose I could have managed continuing working when we moved here, but I am so thankful for the opportunity to be with my girls more -- and fill up all that time I used to use working with other things -- like cooking dinners, ironing, going to the grocery more than once a week, etc. etc. In any event, here's the week that was......
As Maggie's not dancing Nutcracker this year, I'm not able to coordinate carpooling quite as well, so that's taking up a bit more time. Unfortunately, the dancing classes are 5 days a week and occur during "normal" dinner hours or dinner-preparation hours. Therefore, we either do fast food, carry out, OR mom cooks in the morning and makes up convenient boxes for dinner (after eating my portion for lunch! -- at least I get it fresh and not re-heated.....). Mondays and Thursdays in particular are like this. Last week, I made cassoulet which was pretty good (and I have and extra family-sized portion in the freezer). Today it's meatloaf, broccoli, and mashed potatoes.
In any event, back to the busyness of last week. So, Monday included cooking, yoga, grocery, ballet, helping with homework, helping with violin practice, folding towels, carpool (2 trips), etc. Without the carpool I get to spend 45 minutes at Starbucks enabling Abby to do homework in a location besides the car and me to read a book for a bit. Tuesday I had the opportunity to meet with a new group of ladies, all around my age with kids around my girls' ages. It started from a group of MOPS graduates who were looking for a more-formal way to continue their relationships with one another given their kids "graduated" MOPS and were enrolled in different schools. One of my friends from Bible Study invited me. There's some prayer, fellowship, and then someone speaks on a relevant topic. Last week, my friend discussed "Fear" and how it affects children. I really enjoyed the company and am looking forward to the meeting next Tuesday on "Raising Children in Today's Culture". Tuesday continued with Abby's violin lesson followed by a trip to McD's for dinner and then Maggie to ballet. Home by 7:30.....
Wednesday was my Bible Study. I always look forward to this! We're continuing in John and right now are in Chapter 6. The study refers back to the other 3 Gospels as well as tying in the prophecies from the Old Testament. And it's a diverse group of women -- ages from mid-thirties through mid-70s, various churches around the area, various "economic statuses", various "life experiences", etc. etc. It really fills me up mid-week and I value being able to share my experiences with the girls when I get them from school. After school this particular day we took Maggie to the orthodontist and home for ice cream BEFORE dinner to help with the discomfort. Spaghetti (frozen sauce) for dinner for those tender teeth.
Thursday was interesting. I'd been feeling a bit achy and really took it easy Thursday. Tom worked from home. He had his "welcome to my world" experience by going to carpool with me, although he stayed in the car instead of getting out to talk with the other parents picking up kids. We headed from there to a high school open house -- the one Maggie is most interested in. Then home for pizza (ahem, another "order in" day!). Friday was yoga day followed by a quick grocery run. Maggie had girl scouts after school, so Abby and I went to look for some more materials for her school project. Didn't find what she "really" wanted so she's not content to using lego figurines for the "people" in her diorama -- I figured after going to Michael's, Target, and KMart for "people", legos would HAVE to do! We continued and picked up Maggie and headed home where it was dinner (pork tenderloin, rice, and asparagas) and "normal" evening happenings. Saturday started out with a yoga video followed by taking the girls to buy new winter coats. Abby's FIRST TIME since her snow suit we bought in Vienna to have a non-hand-me-down coat (Maggie's when she was Abby's size is quite European in looks.....). I am thankful for Burlington Coat Factory -- living here, they only wear them at most 4 times a year, so I HATE to spend much money on them! However, Maggie's moved into the ladies' sizes, at which point there is a significant difference in price. Picked them up lunch and Cane's and took Maggie to ballet class. Home for a bit, then pick Maggie up and head to piano lessons. HOME FOR GOOD!!!!!
Yesterday (Sunday) was wonderful, aside from missing church. Maggie's girl scout troop participated in Race for the Cure in honor of one of the girls' mom who is currently battling breast cancer. We met and did the 1 mile race first (I was in a jogging mood and jogged it). Then we did the 5K -- I was still in the jogging mood and jogged -- except I walked for about a half mile after mile 2 when the water I drank went down the wrong pipe. SO, I jogged about 4 miles total which, for me, is momentous. And I felt it the rest of the day! Yoga this morning helped, along with 3 advil. In any event, after the race (oh yeah, I also managed to finish before Maggie and her friends who were doing a combo of running and walking), we headed to Le Madeleine for lunch. One of Maggie's friends came home with us for a bit and I took a bath and headed to watch football the rest of the afternoon. Both the Steelers and the Saints (how 'bout that come-from-behind?) won. Tom managed to get both girls some supper as I wasn't moving too well and thoroughly distracted by the TV.......Trouble sleeping due to soreness, but am doing well now.
SO, today has been pack lunch, feed breakfast, take girls to school, yoga, grocery, coffee, cook dinner (eat dinner for lunch), and now I'm here about to go back to school, then head to ballet, heat up tupperware dinners, and put on the PJs for the evening. The joys of staying home......
GREAT week to all!
As Maggie's not dancing Nutcracker this year, I'm not able to coordinate carpooling quite as well, so that's taking up a bit more time. Unfortunately, the dancing classes are 5 days a week and occur during "normal" dinner hours or dinner-preparation hours. Therefore, we either do fast food, carry out, OR mom cooks in the morning and makes up convenient boxes for dinner (after eating my portion for lunch! -- at least I get it fresh and not re-heated.....). Mondays and Thursdays in particular are like this. Last week, I made cassoulet which was pretty good (and I have and extra family-sized portion in the freezer). Today it's meatloaf, broccoli, and mashed potatoes.
In any event, back to the busyness of last week. So, Monday included cooking, yoga, grocery, ballet, helping with homework, helping with violin practice, folding towels, carpool (2 trips), etc. Without the carpool I get to spend 45 minutes at Starbucks enabling Abby to do homework in a location besides the car and me to read a book for a bit. Tuesday I had the opportunity to meet with a new group of ladies, all around my age with kids around my girls' ages. It started from a group of MOPS graduates who were looking for a more-formal way to continue their relationships with one another given their kids "graduated" MOPS and were enrolled in different schools. One of my friends from Bible Study invited me. There's some prayer, fellowship, and then someone speaks on a relevant topic. Last week, my friend discussed "Fear" and how it affects children. I really enjoyed the company and am looking forward to the meeting next Tuesday on "Raising Children in Today's Culture". Tuesday continued with Abby's violin lesson followed by a trip to McD's for dinner and then Maggie to ballet. Home by 7:30.....
Wednesday was my Bible Study. I always look forward to this! We're continuing in John and right now are in Chapter 6. The study refers back to the other 3 Gospels as well as tying in the prophecies from the Old Testament. And it's a diverse group of women -- ages from mid-thirties through mid-70s, various churches around the area, various "economic statuses", various "life experiences", etc. etc. It really fills me up mid-week and I value being able to share my experiences with the girls when I get them from school. After school this particular day we took Maggie to the orthodontist and home for ice cream BEFORE dinner to help with the discomfort. Spaghetti (frozen sauce) for dinner for those tender teeth.
Thursday was interesting. I'd been feeling a bit achy and really took it easy Thursday. Tom worked from home. He had his "welcome to my world" experience by going to carpool with me, although he stayed in the car instead of getting out to talk with the other parents picking up kids. We headed from there to a high school open house -- the one Maggie is most interested in. Then home for pizza (ahem, another "order in" day!). Friday was yoga day followed by a quick grocery run. Maggie had girl scouts after school, so Abby and I went to look for some more materials for her school project. Didn't find what she "really" wanted so she's not content to using lego figurines for the "people" in her diorama -- I figured after going to Michael's, Target, and KMart for "people", legos would HAVE to do! We continued and picked up Maggie and headed home where it was dinner (pork tenderloin, rice, and asparagas) and "normal" evening happenings. Saturday started out with a yoga video followed by taking the girls to buy new winter coats. Abby's FIRST TIME since her snow suit we bought in Vienna to have a non-hand-me-down coat (Maggie's when she was Abby's size is quite European in looks.....). I am thankful for Burlington Coat Factory -- living here, they only wear them at most 4 times a year, so I HATE to spend much money on them! However, Maggie's moved into the ladies' sizes, at which point there is a significant difference in price. Picked them up lunch and Cane's and took Maggie to ballet class. Home for a bit, then pick Maggie up and head to piano lessons. HOME FOR GOOD!!!!!
Yesterday (Sunday) was wonderful, aside from missing church. Maggie's girl scout troop participated in Race for the Cure in honor of one of the girls' mom who is currently battling breast cancer. We met and did the 1 mile race first (I was in a jogging mood and jogged it). Then we did the 5K -- I was still in the jogging mood and jogged -- except I walked for about a half mile after mile 2 when the water I drank went down the wrong pipe. SO, I jogged about 4 miles total which, for me, is momentous. And I felt it the rest of the day! Yoga this morning helped, along with 3 advil. In any event, after the race (oh yeah, I also managed to finish before Maggie and her friends who were doing a combo of running and walking), we headed to Le Madeleine for lunch. One of Maggie's friends came home with us for a bit and I took a bath and headed to watch football the rest of the afternoon. Both the Steelers and the Saints (how 'bout that come-from-behind?) won. Tom managed to get both girls some supper as I wasn't moving too well and thoroughly distracted by the TV.......Trouble sleeping due to soreness, but am doing well now.
SO, today has been pack lunch, feed breakfast, take girls to school, yoga, grocery, coffee, cook dinner (eat dinner for lunch), and now I'm here about to go back to school, then head to ballet, heat up tupperware dinners, and put on the PJs for the evening. The joys of staying home......
GREAT week to all!
Monday, October 19, 2009
Another week!
Managed to have a GREAT weekend. Started off Friday with picking Abby up at school, Maggie going with a friend for Halloweenn supplies. We stopped at Michael's (YUCK) for some report supplies and met Tom for "Where the Wild Things Are". We all enjoyed it. Headed home to find Maggie had just arrived (she's definitely getting old -- sent her with $$ and a key to get in the house!). We passed her friend's mom on our street. The rest of the evening was relatively quiet.....
Saturday I was up and went running -- actually "ran" 3.5 miles at my extremely slow pace. Onward to a Ladies' Fellowship for church -- one of the missionaries the church helps support was visiting and talking about her experiences in Pakistan and Afghanistan. While I appreciate the value of missions in terms of helping people with sanitary conditions, fresh water, and education especially where it will help them better their health and standards of living, I have problems with the concept of "making" people accept Jesus as savior (feel free to debate! I'm not an expert.....). My thoughts on missionaries is that their role should be to share how their love of Jesus brings them hope and joy NOW and comfort for the future. But I don't feel at all that we can "make" people accept Christ. In any event, it was wonderful to have the opportunity to spend time with some of the ladies from my church in a different setting and hear about this woman's experiences. Tom, meanwhile, was WONDERFUL in that he not only did the ballet run but made a second trip to Michael's with Abby, saving me that experience. Whew! As an aside, Saturday morning he'd asked me to make him bisquick biscuits. After hemming and hawing I went ahead and did it. Unfortunately, the bisquick was rather old and didn't rise. Think hockey pucks on a plate. So he went to have cereal. Unfortunately again, I'd used the rest of the milk for the biscuits that didn't rise. He ended up with toast. Whoops!
After we were all home (briefly) Saturday, I took the girls to piano lessons and then we were home for the rest of the day. WHEW!
Sunday morning Maggie went to church with me to hear more from this lady. She only spoke briefly Sunday morning, but the pastor began the second sermon in his series on Jacob. I find it fascinating that no matter how much I think I know about the people in the Bible, there's always more meaning in the words than I'd been aware of. In any event, between the worship and the sermon, my "joy-meter" was refreshed. The rest of the afternoon consisted mainly of football -- go Saints!
Today was busy. I actually started dinner cooking last night by soaking the red-beans. This morning I finished them up, after packing lunches and then took the girls to school. Yoga and grocery followed. Then to finish cooking the cassoulet. Bath, serving up tupperwares for all and eating my portion! Then 45 minutes of relaxing before heading to carpool. Bring the girls home, a bit of time there. Tom came home so Abby didn't have to go to ballet. Took Maggie to ballet, went to Starbuck's for a bit, picked Maggie up and came home. Heated her dinner, put on my pjs and washed my face, and sat down. AAAHHHH!!!!! Done for the day!
Variation tomorrow.......
Saturday I was up and went running -- actually "ran" 3.5 miles at my extremely slow pace. Onward to a Ladies' Fellowship for church -- one of the missionaries the church helps support was visiting and talking about her experiences in Pakistan and Afghanistan. While I appreciate the value of missions in terms of helping people with sanitary conditions, fresh water, and education especially where it will help them better their health and standards of living, I have problems with the concept of "making" people accept Jesus as savior (feel free to debate! I'm not an expert.....). My thoughts on missionaries is that their role should be to share how their love of Jesus brings them hope and joy NOW and comfort for the future. But I don't feel at all that we can "make" people accept Christ. In any event, it was wonderful to have the opportunity to spend time with some of the ladies from my church in a different setting and hear about this woman's experiences. Tom, meanwhile, was WONDERFUL in that he not only did the ballet run but made a second trip to Michael's with Abby, saving me that experience. Whew! As an aside, Saturday morning he'd asked me to make him bisquick biscuits. After hemming and hawing I went ahead and did it. Unfortunately, the bisquick was rather old and didn't rise. Think hockey pucks on a plate. So he went to have cereal. Unfortunately again, I'd used the rest of the milk for the biscuits that didn't rise. He ended up with toast. Whoops!
After we were all home (briefly) Saturday, I took the girls to piano lessons and then we were home for the rest of the day. WHEW!
Sunday morning Maggie went to church with me to hear more from this lady. She only spoke briefly Sunday morning, but the pastor began the second sermon in his series on Jacob. I find it fascinating that no matter how much I think I know about the people in the Bible, there's always more meaning in the words than I'd been aware of. In any event, between the worship and the sermon, my "joy-meter" was refreshed. The rest of the afternoon consisted mainly of football -- go Saints!
Today was busy. I actually started dinner cooking last night by soaking the red-beans. This morning I finished them up, after packing lunches and then took the girls to school. Yoga and grocery followed. Then to finish cooking the cassoulet. Bath, serving up tupperwares for all and eating my portion! Then 45 minutes of relaxing before heading to carpool. Bring the girls home, a bit of time there. Tom came home so Abby didn't have to go to ballet. Took Maggie to ballet, went to Starbuck's for a bit, picked Maggie up and came home. Heated her dinner, put on my pjs and washed my face, and sat down. AAAHHHH!!!!! Done for the day!
Variation tomorrow.......
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Thursday, glorious Thursday
And still HOT and humid -- this is supposed to end tonight. I'm hoping it's so, but not holding my breath. Meanwhile, shorts, t-shirts, and sandals are STILL the apparel.....
In other news, all is well here. We've managed another year without evacuation (3 of the 6 summers we've lived here have been evacuation-free, one had a hurricane -- Gustav in 2008 -- keep us from home for over a week, and one had a hurricana -- Katrina in 2005 -- keep us from home for 6 months). I am thankful it wasn't us this year, but I feel for all those who've suffered during the Pacific's season this year.
The girls started their second quarter of school this week, refreshed from a short break. They both earned good grades -- considering the effort they both put in (especially Maggie considering the material she's expected to know!), they truly EARNED the grades. I am quite pleased. I see a trip to Krispy Kreme for our complementary do-nuts in the near future.....
Abby continues to love playing her violin, although she has days she gets quite frustrated with it. I find it interesting and haven't been able to figure out why some days she's OK with difficulties and some days she completely loses her cool. Who know? Maggie's keeping her head up with ballet, though I see the end in sight. She was really hurt by the whole Nutcracker fiasco and I feel for her. On the positive side, she is excited about being able to participate in other activities and is really looking forward to high school athletics next year.
Tom continues to be my perfect balance (no, Tom, I did NOT say you were perfect -- I said you are my PERFECT BALANCE). I am thankful every day for him and all he does for us.
As for me, I've signed up for a painting/drawing class. Should be interesting, especially considering my last foray into painting resulted in a painting of bamboo my daughters are still convinces is palm trees. As somewhat of a joke, I framed it and gave it to my mom -- she actually likes it -- enough to redesign her bathroom in colors so that she could hang it there.....in any event, I'm looking forward to starting the class next week.
Today is room-mom and volunteer planning for 4th grade activities. They have an extended study on China this year culminating in a Chinese Feast. The children decorate the room, perform various skits, and we get a catered Chinese luncheon. Enjoyed it with Maggie, looking forward to it with Abby. Then we're home for early dinner followed by taking Maggie and her friend to dance. Time for me to put my feet up for an hour before heading out again -- oh, I still have to empty the dishwasher -- THEN it's time to sit down for a bit.......
In other news, all is well here. We've managed another year without evacuation (3 of the 6 summers we've lived here have been evacuation-free, one had a hurricane -- Gustav in 2008 -- keep us from home for over a week, and one had a hurricana -- Katrina in 2005 -- keep us from home for 6 months). I am thankful it wasn't us this year, but I feel for all those who've suffered during the Pacific's season this year.
The girls started their second quarter of school this week, refreshed from a short break. They both earned good grades -- considering the effort they both put in (especially Maggie considering the material she's expected to know!), they truly EARNED the grades. I am quite pleased. I see a trip to Krispy Kreme for our complementary do-nuts in the near future.....
Abby continues to love playing her violin, although she has days she gets quite frustrated with it. I find it interesting and haven't been able to figure out why some days she's OK with difficulties and some days she completely loses her cool. Who know? Maggie's keeping her head up with ballet, though I see the end in sight. She was really hurt by the whole Nutcracker fiasco and I feel for her. On the positive side, she is excited about being able to participate in other activities and is really looking forward to high school athletics next year.
Tom continues to be my perfect balance (no, Tom, I did NOT say you were perfect -- I said you are my PERFECT BALANCE). I am thankful every day for him and all he does for us.
As for me, I've signed up for a painting/drawing class. Should be interesting, especially considering my last foray into painting resulted in a painting of bamboo my daughters are still convinces is palm trees. As somewhat of a joke, I framed it and gave it to my mom -- she actually likes it -- enough to redesign her bathroom in colors so that she could hang it there.....in any event, I'm looking forward to starting the class next week.
Today is room-mom and volunteer planning for 4th grade activities. They have an extended study on China this year culminating in a Chinese Feast. The children decorate the room, perform various skits, and we get a catered Chinese luncheon. Enjoyed it with Maggie, looking forward to it with Abby. Then we're home for early dinner followed by taking Maggie and her friend to dance. Time for me to put my feet up for an hour before heading out again -- oh, I still have to empty the dishwasher -- THEN it's time to sit down for a bit.......
Sunday, October 11, 2009
I'm EXHAUSTED!!!!!
I am tired. We had a three day weekend due to end-of-term at school (Friday off) and I managed to get NO days available to sleep in (although, admittedly, "sleeping in" for me means anything after 7:30am.....). It started out when I went to pick up Maggie at school on Thursday and take Abby her overnight bag to trade for her books. Maggie ended up going home with a friend as well, so I did car-pool and ended up taking no children home. I did have to make a trip to take Maggie her contact stuff later on.
Friday morning I was up at 6 in order to pick up Maggie and 2 friends for 6:30 (the mom had to work Friday). My attempt to go back to sleep was thwarted by 3 7th graders loudly making cupcakes at 7:30 in the morning. sigh. Abby came home late-afternoon, Maggie's friends were picked up a bit after that.
Saturday morning was up at 7 in order to take Maggie to drop her for her camping trip. Didn't even bother trying to go back to sleep this time! Ended up with NO REASON to leave the house for the rest of the day and I was able to watch OSU on tv -- not bad!
This morning, Abby and I were up early for a 5K race -- her first! It was raining this morning (POURING on our drive to the race), but it cleared up for the race itself. It was strange to arrive at the race and have NOTHING set up at all -- the vendors were all late due to weather concerns, we couldn't even get our number-tags. And it was cold and damp (although not raining). By the time the race started we were able to take off our jackets, however! Abby did so good on the race! It was wet and there were puddles all over the place. We finished in just over one hour (less than 20 minutes per mile, which, if you're a rather short 9-year-old is quite respectable for walking!). Most importantly, we had fun.
Maggie came home a couple minutes before we left for piano (she didn't go as the teacher wasn't expecting her and she's tired!). I did all her laundry from her trip and just threw in the week's worth of towels. Is it bed time yet?????
Friday morning I was up at 6 in order to pick up Maggie and 2 friends for 6:30 (the mom had to work Friday). My attempt to go back to sleep was thwarted by 3 7th graders loudly making cupcakes at 7:30 in the morning. sigh. Abby came home late-afternoon, Maggie's friends were picked up a bit after that.
Saturday morning was up at 7 in order to take Maggie to drop her for her camping trip. Didn't even bother trying to go back to sleep this time! Ended up with NO REASON to leave the house for the rest of the day and I was able to watch OSU on tv -- not bad!
This morning, Abby and I were up early for a 5K race -- her first! It was raining this morning (POURING on our drive to the race), but it cleared up for the race itself. It was strange to arrive at the race and have NOTHING set up at all -- the vendors were all late due to weather concerns, we couldn't even get our number-tags. And it was cold and damp (although not raining). By the time the race started we were able to take off our jackets, however! Abby did so good on the race! It was wet and there were puddles all over the place. We finished in just over one hour (less than 20 minutes per mile, which, if you're a rather short 9-year-old is quite respectable for walking!). Most importantly, we had fun.
Maggie came home a couple minutes before we left for piano (she didn't go as the teacher wasn't expecting her and she's tired!). I did all her laundry from her trip and just threw in the week's worth of towels. Is it bed time yet?????
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Thursday
What a wonderful couple days here! Tuesday ended up with the option where Abby and I got to take Maggie to ballet and go to Starbucks. We used to go there ALL THE TIME and they knew my order by heart -- not quite there again! Speaking of places we frequent -- last week the girls and I picked up Chinese food after school -- the lady behind the counter said "no moo shu today?" -- yep, Tom was out of town and we hadn't put in for his "normal" order. Yesterday I went to a coffee shop -- usually I go to their original location, but yesterday I was in a different part of town and went to this one -- the gal behind the counter recognized me from the other place and, you guessed it, knew my order. Ah well! In any event, Tuesday went by fairly well.
Yesterday was Bible study -- I am really getting a lot from our study of John. It's strengthening my personal convictions while helping me understand why others believe differently. After that, I went to buy some work-out clothes -- on Sunday I went walking and the elastic in my shorts was rather loose from wear and threatened to expose my bottom. Plus other items are wearing as well, so I bit the bullet and headed to the sports store. Then onto the second coffee shop (see previous paragraph) and then to pick up the girls. Stopped to get sushi for dinner on our way home (this place did NOT know our order as we haven't been there in quite a while!). Maggie had her most difficult exams today so we played hooky from ballet and I helped her study. One of her Literature stories had to be the most boring thing ever -- except for Tale of Two Cities for which I earned a 7 correct out of 48 possible points in 10th grade (yep, that's about a 12% correct). GAG! History isn't much more exciting to me, but I managed to get through helping her study most of it. One interesting thing I learned was about how Columbus' ships got their name -- "Pinta" was because it was a painted boat, "Nina" reflected the owner of the boat, and "Santa Maria" refers to Jesus' mother. Today Abby is heading to a friend's house after school for a sleep-over. Maggie has ballet this evening, but I'm not sure what's going on around there. Only time will tell, I suppose.
Yesterday was Bible study -- I am really getting a lot from our study of John. It's strengthening my personal convictions while helping me understand why others believe differently. After that, I went to buy some work-out clothes -- on Sunday I went walking and the elastic in my shorts was rather loose from wear and threatened to expose my bottom. Plus other items are wearing as well, so I bit the bullet and headed to the sports store. Then onto the second coffee shop (see previous paragraph) and then to pick up the girls. Stopped to get sushi for dinner on our way home (this place did NOT know our order as we haven't been there in quite a while!). Maggie had her most difficult exams today so we played hooky from ballet and I helped her study. One of her Literature stories had to be the most boring thing ever -- except for Tale of Two Cities for which I earned a 7 correct out of 48 possible points in 10th grade (yep, that's about a 12% correct). GAG! History isn't much more exciting to me, but I managed to get through helping her study most of it. One interesting thing I learned was about how Columbus' ships got their name -- "Pinta" was because it was a painted boat, "Nina" reflected the owner of the boat, and "Santa Maria" refers to Jesus' mother. Today Abby is heading to a friend's house after school for a sleep-over. Maggie has ballet this evening, but I'm not sure what's going on around there. Only time will tell, I suppose.
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
The Joy that is Tuesday
What happened to fall -- it's 90 and feels like a steam room outside. My glasses fogged up when I walked out of the grocery this morning. Sigh.
In other news, it's a typical Tuesday. Went to the gym, 4 miles on the elliptical thingy. Then the grocery since I didn't go yesterday due to rain (thankful we weren't running out of anything!). Home to unpack it all, take a bath, drink some coffee, eat lunch, and here I am, thinking about going to pick up the girls, head to Abby's violin lesson, stop at McDonald's for "dinner" (yikes -- we're not even doing Nutcracker this year and we're still doing McDonald's!), and then figure out what's going on with ballet tonight. With exams, I've told Maggie she can skip a day this week (plus she'll be skipping Saturday due to camping). She originally wanted to skip tomorrow, as her History exam is Thursday and that's the one she doesn't feel as confident about. But her friend and carpool buddy may skip today. SO, that means my afternoon/evening consists of the following alternatives:
1. Let my friend pick Maggie up for ballet at 5:15 and I bring the girls home at 7pm
2. Pick up my friend's daughter at 5:15 and she'll bring them home later
3. Skip ballet today
4. Take Maggie to ballet, head to Starbucks for an hour, then go watch the end of her class and come home
Nice to have options, no??????? Whatever happens, with a gourmet meal planned, I won't be cooking again tonight! Tomorrow we plan to get sushi after school, Thursday I'll cook something, and Friday I think I'm going to make a big pot of spaghetti sauce with meat (maybe sausage?), onion, pepper, and eggplant.........
In other news, there is no other news that I can think of. Tomorrow I go to Bible study, then to purchase new gym wear -- I went out walking Sunday and the elastic in my shorts is about shot.......girls are doing well, I'm so thankful neither is panicking over exams, Tom's got a quick trip to Houston tomorrow, and the beat goes on.......
In other news, it's a typical Tuesday. Went to the gym, 4 miles on the elliptical thingy. Then the grocery since I didn't go yesterday due to rain (thankful we weren't running out of anything!). Home to unpack it all, take a bath, drink some coffee, eat lunch, and here I am, thinking about going to pick up the girls, head to Abby's violin lesson, stop at McDonald's for "dinner" (yikes -- we're not even doing Nutcracker this year and we're still doing McDonald's!), and then figure out what's going on with ballet tonight. With exams, I've told Maggie she can skip a day this week (plus she'll be skipping Saturday due to camping). She originally wanted to skip tomorrow, as her History exam is Thursday and that's the one she doesn't feel as confident about. But her friend and carpool buddy may skip today. SO, that means my afternoon/evening consists of the following alternatives:
1. Let my friend pick Maggie up for ballet at 5:15 and I bring the girls home at 7pm
2. Pick up my friend's daughter at 5:15 and she'll bring them home later
3. Skip ballet today
4. Take Maggie to ballet, head to Starbucks for an hour, then go watch the end of her class and come home
Nice to have options, no??????? Whatever happens, with a gourmet meal planned, I won't be cooking again tonight! Tomorrow we plan to get sushi after school, Thursday I'll cook something, and Friday I think I'm going to make a big pot of spaghetti sauce with meat (maybe sausage?), onion, pepper, and eggplant.........
In other news, there is no other news that I can think of. Tomorrow I go to Bible study, then to purchase new gym wear -- I went out walking Sunday and the elastic in my shorts is about shot.......girls are doing well, I'm so thankful neither is panicking over exams, Tom's got a quick trip to Houston tomorrow, and the beat goes on.......
Monday, October 5, 2009
How to Properly Utilize your MBA
(or at least, how I use mine). First, and foremost, I did manage to have a career with Shell for over 11 years, during which we were able to save enough to send both girls to college. Since then, my main "career" has become a combination of driving the girls around to activities and helping with homework. Mind you, raising children is certainly the most important job any of us can do, regardless of whether or not we also hold a paying job. That said, there are days when I love my job, and days when it's a definite pain in the rear. Last week was busy -- Tom was in Calgary so it was just me. We went to one high school open house (Cabrini High) on Thursday. Friday, Maggie had a girl scout meeting and Abby and I went to the library. Then home where I actually cooked "real" food (chicken broccoli stir fry). AND TOM CAME HOME!
Just in time for a crazy routine Saturday. Maggie had spent the night at a friend's house Friday. Tom went to pick her up while I took Abby to a different friend's house to study together. Then I took Maggie and a 3rd friend to ballet. Tom picked Maggie up at ballet and I got Abby from her friend's house. I took both of them to piano lesson, and took Maggie back to her first friend's house to study together. THANKFULLY the mom brought her home Saturday evening. Did I mention that this all happened in 3 different "suburbs" near where we live? We're in Metairie, Abby's friend is in River Ridge, and Maggie's ballet is in Kenner. 30 minute round-trip to ballet, 50 minute round-trip to River Ridge. Piano is only about 7 minutes away. YIKES! Thankfully that's a bit out of the ordinary.......
Yesterday Maggie joined me at church. He completed a series on broken-heartedness and how God can use tragedy and pain to strengthen our faith. I truly felt this last week when I was down -- lots of prayer and reading truly helps. We got home and Maggie buckled down for studying, literally almost the entire day. I began watching the Saints and our friend came over -- he's the guy that actually introduced me to Tom about 14 years ago. Here from Houston for some conference. We "entertained" with football and carry-out Chinese food (such the hostess!). Nice to visit (and I got to watch the game as well).......
Meanwhile, the bulk of Tom's family was in California for the latest baby's Baptism. It's unfortunate that the timing didn't work out for us to join them, but as many of you know, when the spouse travels and the kiddo's start having exams, timing gets difficult. Hope to see them all for Thanksgiving......
This week the girls have quarter exams. Abby starts today, Maggie starts tomorrow. They have Friday off, then Maggie is camping with Girl Scouts this weekend. Abby and I are doing a 5K walk Sunday (her first!). The only thing I don't enjoy about the walks is missing church which really fills me with joy.........
Hope all have a great week!
Just in time for a crazy routine Saturday. Maggie had spent the night at a friend's house Friday. Tom went to pick her up while I took Abby to a different friend's house to study together. Then I took Maggie and a 3rd friend to ballet. Tom picked Maggie up at ballet and I got Abby from her friend's house. I took both of them to piano lesson, and took Maggie back to her first friend's house to study together. THANKFULLY the mom brought her home Saturday evening. Did I mention that this all happened in 3 different "suburbs" near where we live? We're in Metairie, Abby's friend is in River Ridge, and Maggie's ballet is in Kenner. 30 minute round-trip to ballet, 50 minute round-trip to River Ridge. Piano is only about 7 minutes away. YIKES! Thankfully that's a bit out of the ordinary.......
Yesterday Maggie joined me at church. He completed a series on broken-heartedness and how God can use tragedy and pain to strengthen our faith. I truly felt this last week when I was down -- lots of prayer and reading truly helps. We got home and Maggie buckled down for studying, literally almost the entire day. I began watching the Saints and our friend came over -- he's the guy that actually introduced me to Tom about 14 years ago. Here from Houston for some conference. We "entertained" with football and carry-out Chinese food (such the hostess!). Nice to visit (and I got to watch the game as well).......
Meanwhile, the bulk of Tom's family was in California for the latest baby's Baptism. It's unfortunate that the timing didn't work out for us to join them, but as many of you know, when the spouse travels and the kiddo's start having exams, timing gets difficult. Hope to see them all for Thanksgiving......
This week the girls have quarter exams. Abby starts today, Maggie starts tomorrow. They have Friday off, then Maggie is camping with Girl Scouts this weekend. Abby and I are doing a 5K walk Sunday (her first!). The only thing I don't enjoy about the walks is missing church which really fills me with joy.........
Hope all have a great week!
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
quick update.....
Spa visit with my friend was WONDERFUL!!!!!! Thoroughly enjoyed the massage, LOVED the sugar scrub (I don't thing anyone's bathed me since I was a VERY young child!) and the lying-down shower deal. And having champagne along with a pedicure is absolutely decadent! THANKS Connie for inviting me to share your weekend off! I must admit that I was also glad to make it home for the second half of the OSU game -- Go Bucks! Interesting statistic that there were NO passing yards in the first half. Sort of like the Saints' game Sunday where Pierre Thomas rushed over 100 yards ONLY in the second half (none in the first). Those statistics that you rarely see.....
I woke early on Sunday and took Tom to the airport for his flight to Calgary. After the emotional week last week, I am missing him much more than ever -- feeling a bit adrift and that's not quite "normal" for me. Bible study today helped me find an anchor, but I am still anticipating Tom's return Friday. Sunday continued with church followed by time at home followed by piano lesson and then the Saints' game. I've REALLY been taking the week off from cooking -- on the way home from church we stopped at the grocery and picked up a pizza. Maggie had left-over pizza Monday while Abby had frozen chicken nuggets. Tuesday was McDonald's between violin and ballet, and today we got take-out Chinese (and the girls have left-overs for tomorrow's dinner). Not bad!
Monday was Yom Kippur and my gym was closed. Therefore I started the morning at the grocery and then came home to exercise. Afternoon of ballet. The girl we carpool with is dancing Nutcracker, so our carpool has changed. We're still able to help out with at least one trip per class, but Monday Abby and I ended up staying out in Kenner during dance. We went to Walgreen's for a bit (buying Maggie a new lunch box among other items) and then to Starbuck's for a bit.
Tuesday I was back at the gym, then to the library. At home I framed two stictcheries for the girls' rooms, creating mats and framing them. Tom's got the wire for the hooks, so they are not hung yet. Oh, on Monday I also re-hung the photos in our bedroom to go with the new paint. ANYWAYS, I also ironed Tuesday (thrilling life, no?). As already mentioned, Abby had violin and is starting the last song in the first Suzuki book (which is REALLY hard). So I ordered the new book. Maggie had ballet, but I only had to pick her up.
Today was Bible study which truly was a blessing for me. Am feeling quite adrift. I went running this morning (3+ miles -- not bad for someone who usually walks!). Kind of funny -- while running my cell phone rang. It indicated the caller was Tom (In Case of Emergency). Couldn't figure out why he was calling from Calgary and was even more confused when I answered and Maggie was on the line. Finally I realized that I have the home phone (as well as work and cell) listed for the ICE number. Duh! After Bible study made the big trip to SAM'S. Not my favorite place to go, so I always stock up a LOT. Then to the coffee shop to do my homework. Pick up the girls, pick up Chinese food, home. Maggie went to ballet and then Abby and I went to get here and now, here we are, caught up on happenings in our life. WHEW!
Hoping your week isn't feeling as rough as mine.......
I woke early on Sunday and took Tom to the airport for his flight to Calgary. After the emotional week last week, I am missing him much more than ever -- feeling a bit adrift and that's not quite "normal" for me. Bible study today helped me find an anchor, but I am still anticipating Tom's return Friday. Sunday continued with church followed by time at home followed by piano lesson and then the Saints' game. I've REALLY been taking the week off from cooking -- on the way home from church we stopped at the grocery and picked up a pizza. Maggie had left-over pizza Monday while Abby had frozen chicken nuggets. Tuesday was McDonald's between violin and ballet, and today we got take-out Chinese (and the girls have left-overs for tomorrow's dinner). Not bad!
Monday was Yom Kippur and my gym was closed. Therefore I started the morning at the grocery and then came home to exercise. Afternoon of ballet. The girl we carpool with is dancing Nutcracker, so our carpool has changed. We're still able to help out with at least one trip per class, but Monday Abby and I ended up staying out in Kenner during dance. We went to Walgreen's for a bit (buying Maggie a new lunch box among other items) and then to Starbuck's for a bit.
Tuesday I was back at the gym, then to the library. At home I framed two stictcheries for the girls' rooms, creating mats and framing them. Tom's got the wire for the hooks, so they are not hung yet. Oh, on Monday I also re-hung the photos in our bedroom to go with the new paint. ANYWAYS, I also ironed Tuesday (thrilling life, no?). As already mentioned, Abby had violin and is starting the last song in the first Suzuki book (which is REALLY hard). So I ordered the new book. Maggie had ballet, but I only had to pick her up.
Today was Bible study which truly was a blessing for me. Am feeling quite adrift. I went running this morning (3+ miles -- not bad for someone who usually walks!). Kind of funny -- while running my cell phone rang. It indicated the caller was Tom (In Case of Emergency). Couldn't figure out why he was calling from Calgary and was even more confused when I answered and Maggie was on the line. Finally I realized that I have the home phone (as well as work and cell) listed for the ICE number. Duh! After Bible study made the big trip to SAM'S. Not my favorite place to go, so I always stock up a LOT. Then to the coffee shop to do my homework. Pick up the girls, pick up Chinese food, home. Maggie went to ballet and then Abby and I went to get here and now, here we are, caught up on happenings in our life. WHEW!
Hoping your week isn't feeling as rough as mine.......
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Looking forward to things
I try not to look forward to too many things in life in an effort to enjoy the "right now" more. That said, I am definitely a planner (much to my husband's chagrin!). Part of my rational for planning is that my primary job is taking care of 2 people who are pretty much incapable of fully caring for themselves (don't know how to do laundry, can't drive, no credit cards, etc. etc.). SO, if I'm not available for them, I need to "plan" to have someone else there. Enter Tom stage right. All that said, I am REALLY looking forward to this Saturday -- I get a day off with a friend I met in Houston. Our children (Abby and her son) were enrolled in the same kindergarten after Katrina. She lives in Slidell (east of New Orleans). Her husband travels extensively and, 3-4 times a year treats her to a weekend "off" using hotel points. So I'm meeting her Saturday morning at the Ritz for a day of pampering at their spa. Bliss!
Reality sets back in on Sunday when Tom leaves for Canada.....
In other news, Maggie is not going to dance Nutcracker this year. The performance was scheduled the weekend preceding winter exams (unlike other years when it's been the week earlier) -- not only for her school but also for all the high schools. She tried out and was excited to hear that she'd been selected for a solo part this year. However, when she got the "official" sheet she'd also been selected for 3 other parts -- a bit much on top of 5 classes a week (at least in my opinion -- Tom already considers 5 classes a week excessive). So, she accepted for 3 of the parts. Apparently, that's not an option -- it's "all or nothing". So, after lots of talking and tears, she's opted out this year. Not a happy decision at all. While I appreciate that this performance is the biggest money-maker for the ballet school, I find it unreasonable that young girls should be expected to dance so many roles. Without an option to "choose". But that's me (and the mom of an affected girl!). We'll see what happens eventually.....now the director needs to fill 4 roles rather than just the one Maggie didn't want to dance.....
Abby continues to do well. She's really coming along on her violin (who knew?) and is composing music for her latest hobby -- she shuts herself in the dining room with the piano and writes out all the notes and everything. 9 is just about as sweet as 8 was, though there is certainly more homework in 4th grade as well as more responsibility.
As for me, I continue to time my "enjoyable" activities around the girls' schedules -- everything "must" get done between 9 and 2!!!!! And this pretty much includes anything that requires me to be out of the house, including grocery shopping.....never a dull moment!
Reality sets back in on Sunday when Tom leaves for Canada.....
In other news, Maggie is not going to dance Nutcracker this year. The performance was scheduled the weekend preceding winter exams (unlike other years when it's been the week earlier) -- not only for her school but also for all the high schools. She tried out and was excited to hear that she'd been selected for a solo part this year. However, when she got the "official" sheet she'd also been selected for 3 other parts -- a bit much on top of 5 classes a week (at least in my opinion -- Tom already considers 5 classes a week excessive). So, she accepted for 3 of the parts. Apparently, that's not an option -- it's "all or nothing". So, after lots of talking and tears, she's opted out this year. Not a happy decision at all. While I appreciate that this performance is the biggest money-maker for the ballet school, I find it unreasonable that young girls should be expected to dance so many roles. Without an option to "choose". But that's me (and the mom of an affected girl!). We'll see what happens eventually.....now the director needs to fill 4 roles rather than just the one Maggie didn't want to dance.....
Abby continues to do well. She's really coming along on her violin (who knew?) and is composing music for her latest hobby -- she shuts herself in the dining room with the piano and writes out all the notes and everything. 9 is just about as sweet as 8 was, though there is certainly more homework in 4th grade as well as more responsibility.
As for me, I continue to time my "enjoyable" activities around the girls' schedules -- everything "must" get done between 9 and 2!!!!! And this pretty much includes anything that requires me to be out of the house, including grocery shopping.....never a dull moment!
Monday, September 14, 2009
Stop the World -- I want to get off (at least temporarily!)....
Ever have one of those days when EVERYTHING needs to be done? I don't remember how I got everything done when I was working (of course, I didn't have as much kid-shuffling to do then!). CRAZY days here. Saturday Maggie decided to go ahead and try out for Nutcracker, even though the performances are the weekend prior to exams. I am not thrilled at all about this. She worries and frets over exams a LOT and, of course, we'll have company over the weekend AND, therefore, I will not be able to be her study-buddy as is "normal". Sigh. On the flip side, it would be good for her to learn to do more of the studying solo for the longer term, she does love to dance, and while grades are important, a couple/few Bs aren't going to kill her, right? I just hate that she's already stressed about it -- she's only 12 and should be thinking more about having fun rather than where she'll be for high school next year and all that stuff. Guess it's easier if you've got good public schools and "everyone" goes to the same place, no? Sigh. So, I dropped her off for class for 1pm Saturday. She was asked to "demonstrate" at the 2pm try-outs for the little girls. Then her try-out was at 2:45. Abby and I showed up about 3:30 to pick her up and go to piano lesson. It soon became clear that try-outs were lasting longer than we'd anticipated, so we called and re-scheduled piano and just went home when she was done. WHEW! Got to watch OSU lose Saturday night -- I watched the end of the game in bed, but apparently fell asleep and woke up at the end, still thinking we'd won. In the morning I told Tom OSU had won, then read the paper and realized I was wrong! At least I had a nice 12 hours or so thinking we'd beat USC!
Sunday morning was church, then I watched the Saints. We had to leave during the third quarter for piano, but they had it on at their house so I was able to see the end of the game. Kind of fun to see the rookie QB for the Lions -- he managed to keep his cool for the most part, and played fairly well. It'll be interesting to watch him develop!
Today was hectic-errand-day. Drop the girls off early today for Abby to have choir. Go to the gym, do yoga. Grocery. Home, unpack groceries, fold towels. Clean up the girls' mess that's been driving me crazy. Take a bath. Eat lunch. Run to the dry cleaner (WHEN did dry-cleaning get so expensive!). Go to the library. Pick the girls up from school. Come home. Get Maggie off for ballet. Make dinner. Go pick Maggie up from ballet. WHEW!!!!!!!
Hope your week goes well!
Sunday morning was church, then I watched the Saints. We had to leave during the third quarter for piano, but they had it on at their house so I was able to see the end of the game. Kind of fun to see the rookie QB for the Lions -- he managed to keep his cool for the most part, and played fairly well. It'll be interesting to watch him develop!
Today was hectic-errand-day. Drop the girls off early today for Abby to have choir. Go to the gym, do yoga. Grocery. Home, unpack groceries, fold towels. Clean up the girls' mess that's been driving me crazy. Take a bath. Eat lunch. Run to the dry cleaner (WHEN did dry-cleaning get so expensive!). Go to the library. Pick the girls up from school. Come home. Get Maggie off for ballet. Make dinner. Go pick Maggie up from ballet. WHEW!!!!!!!
Hope your week goes well!
Friday, September 11, 2009
September 11
Yup, it's "that" anniversary again. For many of us, there are days that we remember exactly where we were, who we were with, etc. when certain events occurred. When the Challenger exploded, I was home from school with a migraine. It was also the day my parents brought my sister home from the hospital after some surgery. She came in and turned on the TV, which really annoyed me as I was lying on the couch with a migraine. But the pain was forgotten as the images unfolded.
On 9/11/2001, Tom and I were newly arrived in The Hague after leaving our daughters with my parents and putting our house in Houston on the market after restoring it after flooding due to Tropical Storm Allison. We'd both started new jobs. Tom was on a business trip in London and I was looking forward to week alone -- not being accountable to anyone or having anyone look to me for company or assistance (quite a luxury with a 4 year old and 18 month old!). I was sitting in a conference in a hotel in The Hague with a whole bunch of new colleagues (and a few that I'd know previously). We were a group of folks from all over the world. The first calls came to one of the gentlemen from a secretary with the news that "a plane hit the World Trade Center". We were all (as were many around the world) thinking a small plane made a mistake. Then, of course, it got worse. I sat up all night in my hotel room, calling my mom (thank God I was able to get through!) to check on my girls, watching CNN and the BBC. Tom was still carrying a US cell phone and was calling me from the hotel line. They'd evacuated Shell Centre in London due to its status as a potential target. All flights were cancelled, etc. The next morning we came back into our conference, thinking how small we were and how relatively meaningless our meeting's purpose was. We muddled through the day. All colleagues who were not living in Holland were forced to extend their stays. Tom managed to get a train home for the weekend which was certainly a blessing to me. My biggest impact was when I went back to the US a couple weeks later to bring the girls home and encountered all the new security. This was when they were still x-raying you as you got OFF the plane as well as before you got on. But seeing the smiles on my little girls faces made it all worthwhile.
What a strange world we live in that there are so many people who believe such acts are appropriate against innocent people. I (personally) feel that our country, as much as I love it, is not immune to this sort of behavior. But I digress. So please hold back on any nasty comments! I am a strong believer in education, tolerance, and talk. I appreciate that war and violence have a place, but perhaps not as big a place as our world seems to have for it.
Enough on that. Ballet has started and Maggie's had 2 classes. Suffering rain EVERY day this week during carpool which makes for unhappy people (it's pouring right now, sigh). Orthodontist appointment this afternoon followed by a trip to Michael's for supplies for a 7th grade project. The joys of my life!
On 9/11/2001, Tom and I were newly arrived in The Hague after leaving our daughters with my parents and putting our house in Houston on the market after restoring it after flooding due to Tropical Storm Allison. We'd both started new jobs. Tom was on a business trip in London and I was looking forward to week alone -- not being accountable to anyone or having anyone look to me for company or assistance (quite a luxury with a 4 year old and 18 month old!). I was sitting in a conference in a hotel in The Hague with a whole bunch of new colleagues (and a few that I'd know previously). We were a group of folks from all over the world. The first calls came to one of the gentlemen from a secretary with the news that "a plane hit the World Trade Center". We were all (as were many around the world) thinking a small plane made a mistake. Then, of course, it got worse. I sat up all night in my hotel room, calling my mom (thank God I was able to get through!) to check on my girls, watching CNN and the BBC. Tom was still carrying a US cell phone and was calling me from the hotel line. They'd evacuated Shell Centre in London due to its status as a potential target. All flights were cancelled, etc. The next morning we came back into our conference, thinking how small we were and how relatively meaningless our meeting's purpose was. We muddled through the day. All colleagues who were not living in Holland were forced to extend their stays. Tom managed to get a train home for the weekend which was certainly a blessing to me. My biggest impact was when I went back to the US a couple weeks later to bring the girls home and encountered all the new security. This was when they were still x-raying you as you got OFF the plane as well as before you got on. But seeing the smiles on my little girls faces made it all worthwhile.
What a strange world we live in that there are so many people who believe such acts are appropriate against innocent people. I (personally) feel that our country, as much as I love it, is not immune to this sort of behavior. But I digress. So please hold back on any nasty comments! I am a strong believer in education, tolerance, and talk. I appreciate that war and violence have a place, but perhaps not as big a place as our world seems to have for it.
Enough on that. Ballet has started and Maggie's had 2 classes. Suffering rain EVERY day this week during carpool which makes for unhappy people (it's pouring right now, sigh). Orthodontist appointment this afternoon followed by a trip to Michael's for supplies for a 7th grade project. The joys of my life!
Monday, September 7, 2009
My Labor Day
It may not have been traditional, but it was rather satisfying in its own way. I managed to "sleep in" until after 7am, which, considering I'd fallen asleep before 9:30 was a good amount of sleep! I enjoyed the cooler (although quite humid) morning and went walking -- first time in my new shoes without hurting blisters (which are still healing). Came home to bathe and headed to the grocery in an effort to get a jump on the week (Maggie begins dancing again this week, so anything I can get done early is good!). Came home to find Maggie and Tom at du Monde for beignets, unloaded the groceries, and read the paper and checked e-mail. Did some mending (a button had broken on Tom's blazer), did a TON of ironing, and sat down to read a book. Monica Ali's "In the Kitchen". Not my favorite, but she writes well.
And that was the day that was. So, no picnics, no watermelon, no swimming, etc. Just quiet and rest (watching Maggie do homework -- poor thing!).
Hope yours was all you wanted it to be.
And that was the day that was. So, no picnics, no watermelon, no swimming, etc. Just quiet and rest (watching Maggie do homework -- poor thing!).
Hope yours was all you wanted it to be.
Sunday, September 6, 2009
An update on a busy Friday and Saturday.....
What a great two days! Friday morning came oh so early. Managed to get the girls off to school and on toward the gym. Rode the bike for a while and enjoyed yoga class. Only 7 students, so we were able to have a "wall" class wherein yoga becomes even more 3 dimensional as you can use the wall for stretching and support. Came home as planned in anticipation of Terminix for the regular 3 month drill. One thing about the south, having an exterminator visit is in no way an indication of poor housekeeping skills! Not that mine are great, but anyone who can has they guy come out with his various potions. Meanwhile, the men coming to take away the playset in the backyard were also here. At 9 and 12 the girls were no longer using the equipment and we were planning on posting fliers with a photo -- "free" just come and get it. My cousin let her neighbors know and they were interested, so they rented a trailer and showed up. I hope they're able to put it back together again! The girls really enjoyed it while it was here, but the backyard looks so empty without it.
Next stop for me was to pick up the girls for a bit of time at home. Then we dressed and attended the Friday evening ONEG service at Temple Sinai in New Orleans. Maggie's good friend celebrated her Bat Mitzvah this weekend and we were invited to attend the service and the following dinner. Never having been to one before, we were quite interested in attending and seeing Maggie's friend reading the Hebrew during part of the service. Dinner at a local Chinese restaurant followed which, of course, was wonderful.
Saturday morning saw us dressing up again for the Bat Mitzvah service itself. Maggie's friend led the bulk of the service, chanting the Hebrew. Her school friends sat in the front two rows in support for her. I was amazed. She attended 2 years of Hebrew school in preparation and it was lovely. The Cantor at the congregation has a wonderful voice and was wonderful to listen to as well as to sing with (although I didn't see much of an improvement in my Hebrew!). When the service was over it was absolutely pouring rain outside, creating difficulties for all inside as it had been quite sunny when we arrived. The kids were taking a bus over to the luncheon, so Maggie went with them. Tom ran across the street and drove our car up to the doorway (thankfully we'd been able to park nearby!). And we were thankful that his suit was lined, so although he got wet, it didn't seem to affect his comfort level too much. Abby and I were able to get into the car without getting too wet (thanks Tom!). We then went to the luncheon. We were seated at a table with many of the parents from the school -- poor Tom was the only male in attendance -- he is truly a good sport! After this we headed home for a bit of rest.
In the evening, Maggie and I attended the party. This was held at a facility near the French Quarter. We rode with a neighbor/friend. I am definitely feeling old as the volume of the music seemed so loud! I sat with several of the other mom's at a table and had a wonderful time. The food was good, the dancing was fun for those that dance (I was forbidden to dance), and the highlight was a video. For her Bat Mitzvah project the girl raised money and collected food for the SPCA and other local animal shelters. The video began by showing photos of her at various life stages with family and friends. Then she spoke about her project and thanked us all for supporting her. At the end her family and friends danced to "YMCA" substituting lyrics about the "SPCA". They were all in various costumes and it was filmed all over New Orleans. Maggie had been asked to participate, so it was special for me to see her in it! I came home a bit early, leaving Maggie in the care of our neighbor. She got home about 11:30. Not late as in the "latest I've ever been out", but late for my current custom in life. THANKS to all who provided so much fun, demonstrated so much love, and welcomed us to participate in so many ways.
This morning Maggie went to church with me. I think we're both sleepy! Heading to a re-scheduled piano lesson in about 20 minutes, then quiet for the rest of the holiday. No plans for tomorrow aside from attempting to sleep in, and, if it works out, doing the weekly grocery run. Hope you all enjoy your holiday!
Next stop for me was to pick up the girls for a bit of time at home. Then we dressed and attended the Friday evening ONEG service at Temple Sinai in New Orleans. Maggie's good friend celebrated her Bat Mitzvah this weekend and we were invited to attend the service and the following dinner. Never having been to one before, we were quite interested in attending and seeing Maggie's friend reading the Hebrew during part of the service. Dinner at a local Chinese restaurant followed which, of course, was wonderful.
Saturday morning saw us dressing up again for the Bat Mitzvah service itself. Maggie's friend led the bulk of the service, chanting the Hebrew. Her school friends sat in the front two rows in support for her. I was amazed. She attended 2 years of Hebrew school in preparation and it was lovely. The Cantor at the congregation has a wonderful voice and was wonderful to listen to as well as to sing with (although I didn't see much of an improvement in my Hebrew!). When the service was over it was absolutely pouring rain outside, creating difficulties for all inside as it had been quite sunny when we arrived. The kids were taking a bus over to the luncheon, so Maggie went with them. Tom ran across the street and drove our car up to the doorway (thankfully we'd been able to park nearby!). And we were thankful that his suit was lined, so although he got wet, it didn't seem to affect his comfort level too much. Abby and I were able to get into the car without getting too wet (thanks Tom!). We then went to the luncheon. We were seated at a table with many of the parents from the school -- poor Tom was the only male in attendance -- he is truly a good sport! After this we headed home for a bit of rest.
In the evening, Maggie and I attended the party. This was held at a facility near the French Quarter. We rode with a neighbor/friend. I am definitely feeling old as the volume of the music seemed so loud! I sat with several of the other mom's at a table and had a wonderful time. The food was good, the dancing was fun for those that dance (I was forbidden to dance), and the highlight was a video. For her Bat Mitzvah project the girl raised money and collected food for the SPCA and other local animal shelters. The video began by showing photos of her at various life stages with family and friends. Then she spoke about her project and thanked us all for supporting her. At the end her family and friends danced to "YMCA" substituting lyrics about the "SPCA". They were all in various costumes and it was filmed all over New Orleans. Maggie had been asked to participate, so it was special for me to see her in it! I came home a bit early, leaving Maggie in the care of our neighbor. She got home about 11:30. Not late as in the "latest I've ever been out", but late for my current custom in life. THANKS to all who provided so much fun, demonstrated so much love, and welcomed us to participate in so many ways.
This morning Maggie went to church with me. I think we're both sleepy! Heading to a re-scheduled piano lesson in about 20 minutes, then quiet for the rest of the holiday. No plans for tomorrow aside from attempting to sleep in, and, if it works out, doing the weekly grocery run. Hope you all enjoy your holiday!
Thursday, September 3, 2009
Thursday
Many people celebrate Wednesday as it's the middle of the week -- me, I prefer Thursday. Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday are taken up with activities, errands, etc. So THURSDAY is usually the day I have to sit back for a few minutes. Today I met with a friend for coffee. Not bad! Ballet classes haven't started yet, so we're home after school as well (with the amount of homework Maggie's been having, that's a blessing!).
Yesterday we celebrated Tom's birthday. He wanted either orange or strawberry cake. Since I'm a woman who believes in the power of mixes, strawberry won out (no orange cake mix out there!). I was talking with my mom on the phone and she recalled the first strawberry cake she made, back in the 70s when they didn't have the pink cake mix. She bought a white cake mix and blended in real strawberries. While it tasted really good, it had a rather gray cast to it. Guess she didn't think about food coloring! Anyway, the cake was yummy, Tom got to open his gifts, and he thanks all for the b-day wishes.
In other news, not too much going on yet (aside from errands, homework, and other tedious items). This weekend we're attending one of Maggie's friends' Bat Mitzvah. Having never been to one, I'll be sure to track all the details! It's at a reform temple (are you supposed to capitalize that?) in New Orleans, and there's a series of events and services on both Friday evening and all day/evening Saturday. PHEW!
Enjoy the close of the week!
Yesterday we celebrated Tom's birthday. He wanted either orange or strawberry cake. Since I'm a woman who believes in the power of mixes, strawberry won out (no orange cake mix out there!). I was talking with my mom on the phone and she recalled the first strawberry cake she made, back in the 70s when they didn't have the pink cake mix. She bought a white cake mix and blended in real strawberries. While it tasted really good, it had a rather gray cast to it. Guess she didn't think about food coloring! Anyway, the cake was yummy, Tom got to open his gifts, and he thanks all for the b-day wishes.
In other news, not too much going on yet (aside from errands, homework, and other tedious items). This weekend we're attending one of Maggie's friends' Bat Mitzvah. Having never been to one, I'll be sure to track all the details! It's at a reform temple (are you supposed to capitalize that?) in New Orleans, and there's a series of events and services on both Friday evening and all day/evening Saturday. PHEW!
Enjoy the close of the week!
Monday, August 31, 2009
Getting better.....thank God for the blessing of friends!
Today started off rather wonky (yes, that IS a word). Not sure was was going on or why, but it just didn't start off well. Managed to fold towels, put them away, pack lunches, feed children breakfast, and take children to school. Headed from there to the gym, even MORE impatient than usual with drivers not driving as I want them to. Rode the bike and went to yoga. Kept getting cramps in my feet (what's THAT all about)? Managed to not topple over during "tree", so SOMETHING went well. Onto the grocery. "Only" spent $140 so far this week. Got home (detour for construction), unpacked and put away groceries, took a bath, sat down and drank some coffee.
THEN a miracle occurred -- a casual friend called. Normally, I'll let "unknown" numbers roll to voice mail, but something made me take this call. She called because I'd been on her mind today. We talked for about 20 minutes about various things that have been bothering me, she listened as I talked, and prayed for me. Haven't quite taken a 180 yet, but I'm on my way out of the funk. I suppose the lessons for this are to 1) answer the phone more often (sorry Tom -- you called while I was in the bath), 2) be open for blessings wherever they come from and 3)listen to your heart and call people who are on YOUR mind -- your call can make their day!
No other news yet today -- get to pick up the girls in an hour from school, then I'll be the "homework hotline".......
THEN a miracle occurred -- a casual friend called. Normally, I'll let "unknown" numbers roll to voice mail, but something made me take this call. She called because I'd been on her mind today. We talked for about 20 minutes about various things that have been bothering me, she listened as I talked, and prayed for me. Haven't quite taken a 180 yet, but I'm on my way out of the funk. I suppose the lessons for this are to 1) answer the phone more often (sorry Tom -- you called while I was in the bath), 2) be open for blessings wherever they come from and 3)listen to your heart and call people who are on YOUR mind -- your call can make their day!
No other news yet today -- get to pick up the girls in an hour from school, then I'll be the "homework hotline".......
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Was 7th grade this tough in 1980-something?
As I watched Maggie doing homework this weekend I began to wonder if I'd had so much work in 7th grade. Oh my! We got home from shopping and errands at about 2 yesterday, and she was working until about 6:30. Today, she got home from church about 1:30 and was working until 6. Yikes! I'm thankful that she's diligent AND a good student -- I don't have to prod her to do her homework. phew! There's enough for me to worry and fret about!
In other news, nothing it new since last night. Tom made it home at some point after we'd all fallen asleep (I am so NOT a night owl -- even on Saturday nights!). But he indicated this morning that he'd had an extremely uplifting time at the church meetings yesterday.
All is well with my soul.
In other news, nothing it new since last night. Tom made it home at some point after we'd all fallen asleep (I am so NOT a night owl -- even on Saturday nights!). But he indicated this morning that he'd had an extremely uplifting time at the church meetings yesterday.
All is well with my soul.
Saturday, August 29, 2009
the other side of perfect
I am not perfect. I once thought I wanted to be perfect, but many years of self-evaluation, prayer, and various forms of talk therapy later, I recognize the futility of believing I will ever achieve perfection. That said, there is no excuse to not try harder and be better. Yet I fail often and miserably. My biggest problem stems from allowing words to leave my mouth before they've been processed by my head. Sigh. This almost happened this morning -- unfortunately, my means of avoiding it entailed leaving a "discussion" without completing it. While I may have succeeded in not saying something I both would regret and, in truth, would have been motivated by hurt rather than by what is in my heart, leaving the room doesn't make it any better.
In any event, the rest of the day seems to have been full of blessings for all four of us. Tom was able to participate in a series of church meetings all day (he's still not home) -- he hasn't been able to do this for over 10 years and I know both that he's missed the fellowship, worship, and preaching and that these meetings fill his heart with joy. I am so thankful that he was able to participate! And I believe the girls will accompany him to more in the morning, which will be even more of a blessing for Tom.
For the three of us today, we were able to complete many items on the to-do lists. Maggie has grown over the summer -- we were able to find 2 pairs of jeans and one pair of dressy shoes today (whew!). She's at those weird sizes where the girls' are just to small, but the figure hasn't caught up to adults. She's also a bit more curvy than the "junior" sizes, so I'm pleased we were able to find 2 pairs that fit after trying on about a dozen. Meanwhile, Abby was quite patient with the process and has matured beyond the "what are you buying for me" stage. That finished, we were able to go to an early piano lesson, the library, and Walgreen's (yep, ANOTHER trip to the drug-store). Home about 2:30pm. I was able to watch the Saints trounce the Raiders while finishing many other to-do items including wrapping b-day presents and labeling and putting photos into the photo book. Meanwhile Maggie quite diligently worked on studying History and working on English homework (they pile it on even more than I remember!) while Abby cleaned up after the tornado that hit her room.
Tomorrow I hope will be more relaxing. I picked up 5 books that were on reserve at the library, so I hope to have time to read after church. Other than that, continue to strive to improve!
In any event, the rest of the day seems to have been full of blessings for all four of us. Tom was able to participate in a series of church meetings all day (he's still not home) -- he hasn't been able to do this for over 10 years and I know both that he's missed the fellowship, worship, and preaching and that these meetings fill his heart with joy. I am so thankful that he was able to participate! And I believe the girls will accompany him to more in the morning, which will be even more of a blessing for Tom.
For the three of us today, we were able to complete many items on the to-do lists. Maggie has grown over the summer -- we were able to find 2 pairs of jeans and one pair of dressy shoes today (whew!). She's at those weird sizes where the girls' are just to small, but the figure hasn't caught up to adults. She's also a bit more curvy than the "junior" sizes, so I'm pleased we were able to find 2 pairs that fit after trying on about a dozen. Meanwhile, Abby was quite patient with the process and has matured beyond the "what are you buying for me" stage. That finished, we were able to go to an early piano lesson, the library, and Walgreen's (yep, ANOTHER trip to the drug-store). Home about 2:30pm. I was able to watch the Saints trounce the Raiders while finishing many other to-do items including wrapping b-day presents and labeling and putting photos into the photo book. Meanwhile Maggie quite diligently worked on studying History and working on English homework (they pile it on even more than I remember!) while Abby cleaned up after the tornado that hit her room.
Tomorrow I hope will be more relaxing. I picked up 5 books that were on reserve at the library, so I hope to have time to read after church. Other than that, continue to strive to improve!
Friday, August 28, 2009
Back into school-mode
The first full week of school is behind us. Still not at full throttle (one more week before ballet starts), but quickly gearing up. I've managed to visit the grocery 3 times this week and a drug store 3 times as well. Gas station once, and desperately in need of an ATM. I am thankful that we AREN'T up to full speed yet, giving me that much more time to remember how to get organized with regards to errands!
Bible Study commenced again Wednesday. What a blessing to be back! We're studying John this year. I got motivated on Monday and read the whole book. Now for the verse-by-verse study. I also managed to do some shopping for Tom's upcoming birthday -- it looks as those this year we'll be home for it, rather than in a hotel evacuating as last year. He knows he's getting tickets to CATS -- Broadway has finally made it back to New Orleans and CATS opens the season in October/November. Looking forward to the afternoon together!
I also was able to go to open house at school and meet Maggie's teachers and re-acquaint myself with Abby's teachers. Abby received her first A ever -- until this year she was on the "E - VG - G - S" system for grading. Whoo hoo to Abby! Maggie has a completely new set of teachers this year (aside from Computer), but is coping well so far with the work load and happy that she's no longer the shortest in her class (although her friend is now sad that she IS the shortest). She's brought home some A's this week as well. I am quite pleased with their performance so far! Although Abby did manage to leave her PE bag home one day.......sigh.
I'm also back to the gym and my yoga class. While I've been exercising all summer (most of it actually at the gym), the past month has been either holiday or at home, so it's a struggle getting back into the routine -- the weights seem so heavy! I do enjoy it and appreciate the results, so it is worth my time and effort.
Sleepy tonight, so going to chill for a short while, finish some laundry, and head for bed -- a day of shopping for my daughter tomorrow awaits -- she's growing!
Bible Study commenced again Wednesday. What a blessing to be back! We're studying John this year. I got motivated on Monday and read the whole book. Now for the verse-by-verse study. I also managed to do some shopping for Tom's upcoming birthday -- it looks as those this year we'll be home for it, rather than in a hotel evacuating as last year. He knows he's getting tickets to CATS -- Broadway has finally made it back to New Orleans and CATS opens the season in October/November. Looking forward to the afternoon together!
I also was able to go to open house at school and meet Maggie's teachers and re-acquaint myself with Abby's teachers. Abby received her first A ever -- until this year she was on the "E - VG - G - S" system for grading. Whoo hoo to Abby! Maggie has a completely new set of teachers this year (aside from Computer), but is coping well so far with the work load and happy that she's no longer the shortest in her class (although her friend is now sad that she IS the shortest). She's brought home some A's this week as well. I am quite pleased with their performance so far! Although Abby did manage to leave her PE bag home one day.......sigh.
I'm also back to the gym and my yoga class. While I've been exercising all summer (most of it actually at the gym), the past month has been either holiday or at home, so it's a struggle getting back into the routine -- the weights seem so heavy! I do enjoy it and appreciate the results, so it is worth my time and effort.
Sleepy tonight, so going to chill for a short while, finish some laundry, and head for bed -- a day of shopping for my daughter tomorrow awaits -- she's growing!
Monday, August 24, 2009
Joy on a Monday
Despite not sleeping well the last couple of nights, this week has started joyfully and I am eager to experience it! With school in session, I get some semblance of "my life" back in that my regular activities resume. I've been back to yoga class twice (yes, I do yoga videos at home, but it's not quite the same when children come in to either observe, giggle, or just interrupt). I'm able to go to the grocery on my own. And I am so excited that my Bible study resumes this week. We are studying the Gospel of John this year. I've begun reading it again on my own and it's amazing once again. I look forward to seeing my friends on Wednesday morning, sharing what's happened this summer, and getting back into one of my favorite and most joyful routines.
Ballet starts for Maggie again the Wednesday after Labor Day. She is excited. I am thankful that my neighbor wants to carpool again this year. This small kindness enables me to more easily prepare dinner for my family, although with the times of her class, it's often prepared in the morning and put into tupperware for re-heating.
I am also joyful because of church. Last night we continued the celebration of the 40th year for the church. Members gave short testimonies to what a local church has meant for them in their lives. Many of the people have been members for upwards of 30 years, many are newer. They all come from varied ways and God found His way into their hearts and lives in varied manners, but we've all ended up in the same place. It's comforting to me to be with people who don't judge me, instead recognizing (as in John Chapter 8) "Let him among you who has no sin be the first to cast a stone at her." Sin is not condoned, it is recognized and labeled as such, but the care for one another remains. It's been a twisty-turny journey for me to find a place that gives me, as one gentleman said, comfort, joy, love, truth, friendship, learning, and shelter.
So, despite homework, despite getting up early, despite packing lunches, despite carpool, and despite any other irritants, I am joyful and anticipating what will be without forgetting to enjoy where I am right now.
Ballet starts for Maggie again the Wednesday after Labor Day. She is excited. I am thankful that my neighbor wants to carpool again this year. This small kindness enables me to more easily prepare dinner for my family, although with the times of her class, it's often prepared in the morning and put into tupperware for re-heating.
I am also joyful because of church. Last night we continued the celebration of the 40th year for the church. Members gave short testimonies to what a local church has meant for them in their lives. Many of the people have been members for upwards of 30 years, many are newer. They all come from varied ways and God found His way into their hearts and lives in varied manners, but we've all ended up in the same place. It's comforting to me to be with people who don't judge me, instead recognizing (as in John Chapter 8) "Let him among you who has no sin be the first to cast a stone at her." Sin is not condoned, it is recognized and labeled as such, but the care for one another remains. It's been a twisty-turny journey for me to find a place that gives me, as one gentleman said, comfort, joy, love, truth, friendship, learning, and shelter.
So, despite homework, despite getting up early, despite packing lunches, despite carpool, and despite any other irritants, I am joyful and anticipating what will be without forgetting to enjoy where I am right now.
Saturday, August 22, 2009
Continuation of good
Life continues to be good, despite really nasty blisters on the back of my ankles. New shoes. Went walking this morning and came home with bloody ankles. Sigh. Tomorrow will be yoga, I suppose!
The rest of today has been relaxing. Maggie went to film something for a friend who's having her Bat Mitvah in two weeks this afternoon. The timing of it may have interfered with piano lessons, so Tom took here. Of course, since we planned for contingencies if it ran late, it was really quick. But it's certainly nice to have Tom willing to cart the girls around when he's around! I took them to piano lessons and then, to continue the lazy Saturday, Tom ordered pizza. Almost no responsibility for me today, and a couple glasses of wine will make it a completely wonderful day (although it would be great even without the wine -- as we say here, that's the "lagniappe" for the day).
Tomorrow will be church and then a slow afternoon. My church is celebrating 40 years of existence and one of the celebrations is tomorrow evening -- testimonies on the value/importance/role of the local church for the parishioners followed by ice cream. All four of us plan to go to this which means the world to me.
Monday brings the first full week of school -- at least we've another week before we get into the ballet routine! Once again, Maggie will have 4 classes per week. Guess my car will be building up mileage again.
Enjoy your week!
The rest of today has been relaxing. Maggie went to film something for a friend who's having her Bat Mitvah in two weeks this afternoon. The timing of it may have interfered with piano lessons, so Tom took here. Of course, since we planned for contingencies if it ran late, it was really quick. But it's certainly nice to have Tom willing to cart the girls around when he's around! I took them to piano lessons and then, to continue the lazy Saturday, Tom ordered pizza. Almost no responsibility for me today, and a couple glasses of wine will make it a completely wonderful day (although it would be great even without the wine -- as we say here, that's the "lagniappe" for the day).
Tomorrow will be church and then a slow afternoon. My church is celebrating 40 years of existence and one of the celebrations is tomorrow evening -- testimonies on the value/importance/role of the local church for the parishioners followed by ice cream. All four of us plan to go to this which means the world to me.
Monday brings the first full week of school -- at least we've another week before we get into the ballet routine! Once again, Maggie will have 4 classes per week. Guess my car will be building up mileage again.
Enjoy your week!
Friday, August 21, 2009
Being Thankful
This week has been really good for me and I have a lot to be thankful for. It's easy to be thankful when the sun is shining (although it's stormed for the past 2 days!) and all is well. Much more difficult to be thankful when it's not going "your way". Even then, I always find something I'm thankful for at the end of the day, even if it is just the fact that it's the end of the day (hee hee!). However, as noted above, this week there is a lot to be thankful for.
1. My husband -- Tom is a wonderful provider. I never imagined not bringing in an income and found it quite humbling when I took severance from Shell 5+ years ago to be "dependent" on someone else. Tom makes it easy for me. I am not an extravagant shopper, which I'm sure helps, but I have freedom to spend as I see appropriate.
2. My girls -- who could ask for more? No, they are not perfect, but I would not want them to be so. You gotta have spirit to do anything worhwhile, no? But they are good girls and I pray that they continue to develop as they've done so far with strong morals and values.
3. My home -- ok, New Orleans isn't my favorite place to live, but we have a great house in a (relatively) safe neighborhood with nice neighbors. We're comfortable here. Yes, there are things we'd change, but this is good for us.
4. What's around me -- I am definitely a girl for a city (or at least suburb). I like having big stores near by. I like having a wide assortment of choices when I shop, be it for groceries or clothing. I like having 2 movie theaters close-by. I like having live theater (both community and "professional") close enough that's it not a production to get there. I LOVE that the airport is 15 minutes from my house, but that I'm not in the immediate take-off/landing zone. And there are several coffee shops nearby.
5. My church -- I've found a home. Full of people I like to be with -- none of us are perfect, but we're all doing our best and striving to live as God wants us to (at least how we believe He wants us to).
6. My friends -- I've never been a friend collector -- I keep things inside. That said, there are many people around who I can count on if I need something -- be it carpooling, a ride somewhere, or just a chat over coffee or lunch.
7. MANY other things -- my parents, my sister, the rest of my family, my in-laws who've always made me feel welcome, my cat, the country I live in, etc. etc.
Count your blessings every day, no matter how few of them there may be on any particular day!
1. My husband -- Tom is a wonderful provider. I never imagined not bringing in an income and found it quite humbling when I took severance from Shell 5+ years ago to be "dependent" on someone else. Tom makes it easy for me. I am not an extravagant shopper, which I'm sure helps, but I have freedom to spend as I see appropriate.
2. My girls -- who could ask for more? No, they are not perfect, but I would not want them to be so. You gotta have spirit to do anything worhwhile, no? But they are good girls and I pray that they continue to develop as they've done so far with strong morals and values.
3. My home -- ok, New Orleans isn't my favorite place to live, but we have a great house in a (relatively) safe neighborhood with nice neighbors. We're comfortable here. Yes, there are things we'd change, but this is good for us.
4. What's around me -- I am definitely a girl for a city (or at least suburb). I like having big stores near by. I like having a wide assortment of choices when I shop, be it for groceries or clothing. I like having 2 movie theaters close-by. I like having live theater (both community and "professional") close enough that's it not a production to get there. I LOVE that the airport is 15 minutes from my house, but that I'm not in the immediate take-off/landing zone. And there are several coffee shops nearby.
5. My church -- I've found a home. Full of people I like to be with -- none of us are perfect, but we're all doing our best and striving to live as God wants us to (at least how we believe He wants us to).
6. My friends -- I've never been a friend collector -- I keep things inside. That said, there are many people around who I can count on if I need something -- be it carpooling, a ride somewhere, or just a chat over coffee or lunch.
7. MANY other things -- my parents, my sister, the rest of my family, my in-laws who've always made me feel welcome, my cat, the country I live in, etc. etc.
Count your blessings every day, no matter how few of them there may be on any particular day!
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