I haven't posted anything since my father in law passed away. It's been hard dealing with all the feelings afterwards. Things I never counted on, such as Emily's grief. We've been working our way through
the pain and have kept living life as much as we can.
With that being said, I feel very inadequate right now. Basically Jerry and I have made it through this economic downturn without being caught in a financial rut. We've worked very hard at that by not buying outside of our means and going without things. We have hand me down couches, tables and chairs. Our carpet has stains and we cant afford to replace the flooring in our kitchen that is cracking. We have a chair cover over our recliner because we just don't want to spend money on a new chair. We would rather go on vacation to celebrate our 15 anniversary this year then buy new furniture.
Well, tonight Emily came downstairs and informed me that her room is too small and her bed is too big. She wants us to completely redo her room. She has a lot of crap in her room that I feel she could get rid of to make more room. We've offered to take out her nightstand, which would give her more room. She just isn't happy. I have given up so much for her lately, to keep her in swimming and keep improving in swimming. Now I'm suppose to give up anything I would get to improve my house because she doesn't like her room? Oh, and I failed to mention that Chris' mattress is on the floor because we don't have a frame for him yet. I don't hear him complaining.
I just have struggled to not work so I could be home with the kids. Now I physically can't do most jobs that require constant standing, therefor I have to do what I can. I see other folks taking their kids to Disney every year, or re do their kids room all the time, or give them all sorts of things. We just can't do it. We are just barely keeping our head above water and are going to keep doing that if we can.
I just feel so bad right now. :(
Wednesday, May 2, 2012
Tuesday, March 6, 2012
funeral
Since I last posted about my father in law things have changed tremendously. He had a very rough time last week. He stopped being about to swallow, which meant he couldn't eat or drink. He couldn't really talk and had a hard time breathing. We all knew it wasn't going to end good. We had to make decisions on what to do. Do we take extensive measures to try and keep him alive? Or do we let him go? We chose the later. We knew he wouldn't want to live with no quality of life, so we let him go.
Even in his state he found a way to say good bye to us all. For Jerry, he outstretched his arm to try and hug him. Jerry took that hug and squeezed his hand as well. For the kids, he said "bye Chris" and "bye Emily" very loudly the last time they saw him in the hospital. For me, I was sitting next to his bed and got up to go to work. He said "bye" really loud, which was crazy because he hadn't been able to talk in awhile. We all jumped and my brother in law Jim asked if he had just said bye to me. I walked over, grabbed his hand and said bye. He squeezed my hand and sort of smiled, then said "bye" again. I leaned down to give him a hug and told him I loved him. Then I went to work. That was the last time I ever saw him alive. I truly believe he knew he would be leaving us and made sure each one of us had our goodbye with him.
The funeral itself was the most beautiful thing I have ever been a part of. My mother in law, Judy, asked me to pick out the music and make it different then the normal funeral fare. I picked some great hymns that I thought really fit the bill. I also offered to play one hymn, of which she picked Ave Maria. Seeing the casket close for the last time was very hard. Just the finality of it I suppose. It will forever be etched in my mind. Since my brother in law, John, is a priest we had a number of his friends there to support him. I am not sure of the final count but I would guess 15 or more. Our priest Fr. Rick from St. Roch's was there to support us as well, which was really nice. As the mass progressed there were times where the sun would come out and shine down on the alter. One time was when the consecration was being started. John was at the alter with the bread and wine and had just started the prayer when the sun came out and shined so brightly. I leaned down and told the kids that Grandpa must me shining down from Heaven! Then it happened a second and third time at different times. Everytime the sun shone I smiled. When I went up to play after Communion I was pretty emotional. I prayed for calm. I prayed for help. My experience has been that when I am nervous or emotional my bottom lip quivers and sweats. That is not good for a flutist! I always power through but am never happy with my performance. Yesterday that didn't happen. My hands were shaking like leafs, but I could still push down the keys. My lip was steady as a rock and my mouth and lip were dry. I felt calm and also had more breath control then I have had in a long time. I have to believe I had help from above. I was told there was not a dry eye left in the church when I was done. I feel like my music is all I have to give, so I am glad I could share that on that special day.
It has been a grueling two weeks but it was filled with love and laughter as well. We spent our time together and feel we did all we could for my father in law, John. There are no regrets and there are no more tears. We left yesterday filled with joy and happiness, knowing he went to Heaven and is with Jesus. He told us he saw Jesus, so we know that is where he is. What a comforting thought! He will be deeply missed, and the hard times are still yet to come, but I know he is happy and not hurting or confused anymore. We will see him again someday!
Thank you to anyone who reached out to me in the last two weeks. Whether it was an email, a text, a chat on FB, a phone call or a visit at the funeral home or funeral it all meant a lot to me and made this experience so much easier. I love you all!!
Even in his state he found a way to say good bye to us all. For Jerry, he outstretched his arm to try and hug him. Jerry took that hug and squeezed his hand as well. For the kids, he said "bye Chris" and "bye Emily" very loudly the last time they saw him in the hospital. For me, I was sitting next to his bed and got up to go to work. He said "bye" really loud, which was crazy because he hadn't been able to talk in awhile. We all jumped and my brother in law Jim asked if he had just said bye to me. I walked over, grabbed his hand and said bye. He squeezed my hand and sort of smiled, then said "bye" again. I leaned down to give him a hug and told him I loved him. Then I went to work. That was the last time I ever saw him alive. I truly believe he knew he would be leaving us and made sure each one of us had our goodbye with him.
The funeral itself was the most beautiful thing I have ever been a part of. My mother in law, Judy, asked me to pick out the music and make it different then the normal funeral fare. I picked some great hymns that I thought really fit the bill. I also offered to play one hymn, of which she picked Ave Maria. Seeing the casket close for the last time was very hard. Just the finality of it I suppose. It will forever be etched in my mind. Since my brother in law, John, is a priest we had a number of his friends there to support him. I am not sure of the final count but I would guess 15 or more. Our priest Fr. Rick from St. Roch's was there to support us as well, which was really nice. As the mass progressed there were times where the sun would come out and shine down on the alter. One time was when the consecration was being started. John was at the alter with the bread and wine and had just started the prayer when the sun came out and shined so brightly. I leaned down and told the kids that Grandpa must me shining down from Heaven! Then it happened a second and third time at different times. Everytime the sun shone I smiled. When I went up to play after Communion I was pretty emotional. I prayed for calm. I prayed for help. My experience has been that when I am nervous or emotional my bottom lip quivers and sweats. That is not good for a flutist! I always power through but am never happy with my performance. Yesterday that didn't happen. My hands were shaking like leafs, but I could still push down the keys. My lip was steady as a rock and my mouth and lip were dry. I felt calm and also had more breath control then I have had in a long time. I have to believe I had help from above. I was told there was not a dry eye left in the church when I was done. I feel like my music is all I have to give, so I am glad I could share that on that special day.
It has been a grueling two weeks but it was filled with love and laughter as well. We spent our time together and feel we did all we could for my father in law, John. There are no regrets and there are no more tears. We left yesterday filled with joy and happiness, knowing he went to Heaven and is with Jesus. He told us he saw Jesus, so we know that is where he is. What a comforting thought! He will be deeply missed, and the hard times are still yet to come, but I know he is happy and not hurting or confused anymore. We will see him again someday!
Thank you to anyone who reached out to me in the last two weeks. Whether it was an email, a text, a chat on FB, a phone call or a visit at the funeral home or funeral it all meant a lot to me and made this experience so much easier. I love you all!!
Thursday, February 23, 2012
Father in Law
Yesterday my father in law was driving home from the credit union when he blew a stop sign. My mother in law made a comment about "wow, we aren't stopping today?". Then he blew another one. And another one. Then he stopped at a stop light and didn't know what he was doing. My mother in law stopped at a near by house and called 911. When they got to the ER they did a CT scan and found the brain hemorrhage.
All last night we all sat around trying to figure out what was going on. We were stressed out and really didn't know if John would make it through the night. Jerry and I got home after 10:30 and ate some of the best pizza ever. I suppose it was just because we were so hungry, but it tasted so good!
Today I made my way to the hospital to sit with my mother in law. When I got there I got the low down on his condition. He didn't know who his wife was. He didn't know what glasses were, or what he was suppose to do with them. He didn't realize he was in the hospital, and didn't know when his birthday is. He seemed pretty groggy during the afternoon and didn't want to eat anything. He seemed to know who I was, but he could have just been playing along. It's hard to say.
When I went back after work Jerry was there. They were telling me about what had happened while I was gone. Apparently John had ripped out his IV, and took off his oxygen finger thing. The nurses had to restrain him so that he couldn't do more harm. He also had no idea who Judy or Jerry was. Not much later Jim and Jack came in. ( Jack had just flown in from Mexico to be with his dad.) They approached the bed and John had no idea who they were. I can't even imagine what thoughts went through their minds. He tried to talk but nothing made sense. He can't form words or really put sentences together. It is so sad.
Once he was settled down, and fell asleep, we left to go home. I can't imagine how Jerry is feeling right now, having his own father not know who he is. It is heartbreaking I am sure.
One thing I have learned through all of this is just how loved Jerry and I are. I am overwhelmed by all of the support and kind words that have been shared with us through Facebook, email and phone calls. The offers of help is also abundant and amazes me. Your friendships mean the world to us and we feel lucky to have you in our lives! Thank you from the bottom of our hearts, for caring and being there for us in our time of need. We love every one of you!
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
emotionally hard times
Anyone, who knows me well, knows I have extreme back issues. I have had them for years, since high school really. The last ten years have been especially hard on me but I've trudged on. I have tried very hard to hide how bad it's been from everyone, including my spouse. I tried to never complain and always worked through the pain. I never wanted the pain to define me and feel that I am now compromising that.
These last six months have been quite the struggle for me, mentally and physically. My back has been very fragile and seems angry about it. I know I need to lose weight, to get it off my spine....but that would require going to the gym, which could hurt my back. I try to eat well but I have never been able drop weight by diet alone.
All of a sudden I find myself constantly thinking of my back. Always bowing out of things, because I am afraid my back will go out. Never wanting to try anything new because it may throw my back out. Everything I think or do is controlled by my back.
I have told some of my close friends, and my chiropractor, that I feel as if I am experiencing post traumatic stress disorder. I am scared to live. I am scared to do anything. I am mad that I am scared. I am mad that I can't do anything. I am ashamed at how I look. I am mad at how I look. I am ashamed that I have let myself go, but know that it is not my fault. I hate what I have become. It's as simple as that.
I see everyone joining gyms and going to weight watchers. I loved going to the gym a few years back. That was my salvation when the kids were little. I have loved weight watchers, but I know that I can't lose weight if I'm not trying to stay fit as well. It's like a double edged sword for me, since I need to lose weight and exercise but physically can't do that right now.
I am ashamed at how I look, and never want people to see me. It's just how I feel. No one can understand the pain in my heart because I don't show it easily. I look back at how I looked just five years ago and want to cry. It doesn't seem fair. It's not like I overeat, or eat all junk. I don't. Most of the time I don't even finish my whole plate of food. I track what I eat, and try to keep within a certain amount of calories. For some reason, it doesn't matter. I'm still too big.
Basically, I am scared to go to the gym because I might do harm to my back and end up where I was six months ago. I am scared to go walking around my block, because if my back goes out while walking I won't make it home. I am scared to stretch my muscles, for fear of pulling a disc out of place. I live my life scared to death every day. I try very hard to smile and be positive so people have no idea what I am really thinking. It is just getting very hard to do. I don't want my kids to see my pain, but they do.
I hate that I can't help my kids clean their rooms, or do their laundry. It just hurts too much. If I did any of that it would take me four or five days to recover from 2 hours of work. That doesn't seem fair to me. I should be able to help my children do things like that. It breaks my heart that I can't. I am afriad that when they look back at me, all they will see is my pain. My inability to actually be a mom. I know I drive them to swimming and sit in the stands, but they won't remember that. They will only remember what I couldn't do. That is one of my biggest fears.
Anyway, I will end my rant of my feelings. At least for now.
Monday, December 26, 2011
Christmas 2011
My holiday started like all others before it, playing mass. I played four masses this year and loved every one of them. There is no sarcasm in that last sentence, I really did enjoy the celebrations. The church was decorated beautifully and the people were so happy to be there. The choir sounded amazing and I played flute at church for the first time in months. Maybe my happiness was because of my ability to play and not hurt for once. I'm not sure. I just know that I was loving every moment of my time at church!
In between the two Christmas Eve masses the four of us met my parents at Hawaiian Islands (a Chinese place) for dinner. We had a great time. That is a tradition that I love with all my heart. Spending time with my parents. When we got home from dinner we let the kids open their gifts from us, since I had to be at church at 8:30am the next day. We gave Emily an iPod touch and chris a 3ds. We couldn't afford much this year, but I think we still did great in their eyes. My Christmas gift was my Keurig coffee maker that I had bought myself the day after Thanksgiving and my new smartphone.
On Christmas day we got up early to have the kids open Santa's gifts (angry birds stuff for Chris and an American Doll for Emily). I had to run off to church and play the last two masses, but the kids stayed home with Jerry and learned how to play their toys! After church we all met at my parents home for lunch. This is one of my favorite traditions. It is so relaxing to be able to head there, relax with a glass of wine, and thank God that I still have my folks in my life. We always have stockings to "open" and the kids love going there as well. I feel so lucky to still have both my parents in my life. So many folks have lost a parent, or two, or have step parents to deal with. I've been blessed with an amazing family!
After my folks house we head to Jerry's folks house. We had dinner there with the whole Herman clan (minus Jack, Hank and Jen--whom we missed!). We spent time chatting and playing with the nephews.
They are so cute right now. They are 2 and 3 and are just so fun to be around!
Overall, the holiday was a complete success! Right now I wearing my new bathrobe that my mother gave me. This bathrobe is special in a couple of different ways. The robe itself is not necessarily special, although it is a soft as a cloud!! It is special because my mom surprised me on Christmas for the first time in years. Normally I always know what I am getting from her. It's a fact of getting older. It happens. This year, she bought me something I didnt' know about and I was thrilled. Its also special because whenever I put it on I feel as if my mom is putting her arms around me!
I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Festivus, or whatever other holiday you celebrate. May the new year bring you happiness, success and much love!!
Merry Christmas to everyone and a very Happy New Year to come!!!
In between the two Christmas Eve masses the four of us met my parents at Hawaiian Islands (a Chinese place) for dinner. We had a great time. That is a tradition that I love with all my heart. Spending time with my parents. When we got home from dinner we let the kids open their gifts from us, since I had to be at church at 8:30am the next day. We gave Emily an iPod touch and chris a 3ds. We couldn't afford much this year, but I think we still did great in their eyes. My Christmas gift was my Keurig coffee maker that I had bought myself the day after Thanksgiving and my new smartphone.
On Christmas day we got up early to have the kids open Santa's gifts (angry birds stuff for Chris and an American Doll for Emily). I had to run off to church and play the last two masses, but the kids stayed home with Jerry and learned how to play their toys! After church we all met at my parents home for lunch. This is one of my favorite traditions. It is so relaxing to be able to head there, relax with a glass of wine, and thank God that I still have my folks in my life. We always have stockings to "open" and the kids love going there as well. I feel so lucky to still have both my parents in my life. So many folks have lost a parent, or two, or have step parents to deal with. I've been blessed with an amazing family!
After my folks house we head to Jerry's folks house. We had dinner there with the whole Herman clan (minus Jack, Hank and Jen--whom we missed!). We spent time chatting and playing with the nephews.
They are so cute right now. They are 2 and 3 and are just so fun to be around!
Overall, the holiday was a complete success! Right now I wearing my new bathrobe that my mother gave me. This bathrobe is special in a couple of different ways. The robe itself is not necessarily special, although it is a soft as a cloud!! It is special because my mom surprised me on Christmas for the first time in years. Normally I always know what I am getting from her. It's a fact of getting older. It happens. This year, she bought me something I didnt' know about and I was thrilled. Its also special because whenever I put it on I feel as if my mom is putting her arms around me!
I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Festivus, or whatever other holiday you celebrate. May the new year bring you happiness, success and much love!!
Merry Christmas to everyone and a very Happy New Year to come!!!
Monday, November 21, 2011
Revelation
For the last three to four months I have been watching Emily in her swim practices and have noticed that she just wasn't herself in the pool. She looked like she was struggling during practices and her times during meets were starting to get worse. Nothing she did seemed to work and she has been very stressed. I have had this inkling, this feeling, that there was a deep seeded root to her problem and just could not put my finger on it.
Today was the turkey trot race at her school and Jerry has always taken half a day to run it with the kids. Last year Emily placed second in her class and 25th overall. This year she had to keep taking breaks and came in 65th overall. That is still an amazing accomplishment, but not her best. I had flashes to swimming and that feeling came back. That mother's instinct! Jerry looked at me, after she walked away, and basically told me to book a doctor's appointment. I asked if he thought she had asthma and he said yes.
Bingo! Asthma! I have lived with exercise induced asthma all my life, makes sense that she might too. It all makes sense. The fact that she was always out of breath. The fact that her times were getting worse. The fact that she looked so dang slow in practice but swore she was working hard.
Today I decided to try something. I gave her a puff off of my inhaler. I doubt it could do any harm to her and it would really tell us if this is the problem. Well....she had an amazing work out! I haven't seen her look this good in a long time, and she had a smile on her face as she got out of the pool. When I asked her how practice went she said it was amazing because she never got tired. She felt like she could swim faster and felt energized afterwards. This just convinced me that I am right.
Now to see what the doctor says. Hopefully he will concur with me! :)
Today was the turkey trot race at her school and Jerry has always taken half a day to run it with the kids. Last year Emily placed second in her class and 25th overall. This year she had to keep taking breaks and came in 65th overall. That is still an amazing accomplishment, but not her best. I had flashes to swimming and that feeling came back. That mother's instinct! Jerry looked at me, after she walked away, and basically told me to book a doctor's appointment. I asked if he thought she had asthma and he said yes.
Bingo! Asthma! I have lived with exercise induced asthma all my life, makes sense that she might too. It all makes sense. The fact that she was always out of breath. The fact that her times were getting worse. The fact that she looked so dang slow in practice but swore she was working hard.
Today I decided to try something. I gave her a puff off of my inhaler. I doubt it could do any harm to her and it would really tell us if this is the problem. Well....she had an amazing work out! I haven't seen her look this good in a long time, and she had a smile on her face as she got out of the pool. When I asked her how practice went she said it was amazing because she never got tired. She felt like she could swim faster and felt energized afterwards. This just convinced me that I am right.
Now to see what the doctor says. Hopefully he will concur with me! :)
Monday, November 7, 2011
a feeling of failure
I feel like I have failed as a mother. I know that sounds dramatic, but that is how I feel.
Emily is so stressed right now and I don't know how to get through to her or how to help her. I feel completely helpless. Her grades are dropping and her times in swimming are considerably slower then last season. I know I've pushed her before, but she always seemed to be able to handle it. I have made a conscious effort to step back and not push her this year where swimming is concerned. I've told her that swimming should be fun and asked her if there was something else she would want to try. She always says no. That swimming is her sport.
I just had a talk with her teacher about a test she took. Long story short, she retook a test and still got a B-. Now I understand that a B- is not necessarily a bad grade, but it's not like her. She only got 4 wrong in the first place and two of them she got right on the original test. That is just careless. I also found out, by talking to the teacher, that she had a study guide to bring home and I never was even aware that there was an upcoming test much less a study guide for it. The weekend before this big test was her USS swim meet. She put so much weight on that meet, and none on her school work. Its upsetting to me. I am at the point where I feel I need to pull her from the team for awhile until she gets her grades back, but then I think maybe I'm overreacting.
I just feel like I have failed her. I don't know where to go from here and I am very overwhelmed myself. Maybe I am making more out of this then I need to, but she has told me how stressed she is but won't tell me why. Maybe she doesn't even understand why. Personally I think she sees all the other kids excelling on their times in swimming and improving and she's not. I don't understand it and have no idea how to help her. She has had the personal, one on one time,with the coach over the summer but is not following through on any of what he taught her. The coach is too busy working with the older kids to see what she is doing or not doing, so that's a bust also.
As far as school goes, she isn't even bringing study guides home to study for tests. In fact, she didn't even tell me about the big social studies test. When I was talking with the teacher this morning I was informed that they had four days to study at home before the test. Why didn't I know about it? I don't think I can take all the heat for this one because I can't read minds, but still.....I must have failed her somewhere.
I really, really, really wish kids came with owner manuals. At least then I'd have some idea on how to troubleshoot this problem.
I also wish I had the money to talk with a counselor. Maybe then I could figure some things out. It sucks having crappy health insurance. :(
Emily is so stressed right now and I don't know how to get through to her or how to help her. I feel completely helpless. Her grades are dropping and her times in swimming are considerably slower then last season. I know I've pushed her before, but she always seemed to be able to handle it. I have made a conscious effort to step back and not push her this year where swimming is concerned. I've told her that swimming should be fun and asked her if there was something else she would want to try. She always says no. That swimming is her sport.
I just had a talk with her teacher about a test she took. Long story short, she retook a test and still got a B-. Now I understand that a B- is not necessarily a bad grade, but it's not like her. She only got 4 wrong in the first place and two of them she got right on the original test. That is just careless. I also found out, by talking to the teacher, that she had a study guide to bring home and I never was even aware that there was an upcoming test much less a study guide for it. The weekend before this big test was her USS swim meet. She put so much weight on that meet, and none on her school work. Its upsetting to me. I am at the point where I feel I need to pull her from the team for awhile until she gets her grades back, but then I think maybe I'm overreacting.
I just feel like I have failed her. I don't know where to go from here and I am very overwhelmed myself. Maybe I am making more out of this then I need to, but she has told me how stressed she is but won't tell me why. Maybe she doesn't even understand why. Personally I think she sees all the other kids excelling on their times in swimming and improving and she's not. I don't understand it and have no idea how to help her. She has had the personal, one on one time,with the coach over the summer but is not following through on any of what he taught her. The coach is too busy working with the older kids to see what she is doing or not doing, so that's a bust also.
As far as school goes, she isn't even bringing study guides home to study for tests. In fact, she didn't even tell me about the big social studies test. When I was talking with the teacher this morning I was informed that they had four days to study at home before the test. Why didn't I know about it? I don't think I can take all the heat for this one because I can't read minds, but still.....I must have failed her somewhere.
I really, really, really wish kids came with owner manuals. At least then I'd have some idea on how to troubleshoot this problem.
I also wish I had the money to talk with a counselor. Maybe then I could figure some things out. It sucks having crappy health insurance. :(
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Emily and Nutrition
Emily is starting her USS swimming season with her first meet in a week. She is really hoping to qualify for Junior Olympics this year, or J.O. as swimmers know it as. She has been working hard but realizes she just isn't cutting it. Last night they did somoe sprints and she couldn't keep up with the girls she used to be able to beat. I could tell she was really working hard and was disappointed for her. I just don't know that she will be able to pull it off, the qualification that is.
On the ride home she and I talked very openly about what she needed to do and how what she eats really makes a difference. She doesn't eat badly, but she eats a ton of carbs and really loves her sweets (who doesn't). Anyone who has seen a picture of her knows she probably has zero body fat on her but at this point in her training I fear that what she puts in her mouth is really whats fueling her body in the pool. She asked me to go on the USS swimming website to see what they say about nutrition and swimming, so I did. Last night she brought me a package of sour patch kids, the Halloween size bags. She said "mom, two bags of these are a serving. Did you know that". I chuckled because I didn't know that. I was so proud of her for looking and taking this seriously. Then, she did something that I was very proud of as well....she packed one bag in her lunch for today and is saving the other bag for "later". She knows that she should only eat one serving per day so she is spreading it out.
I can honestly say, if she doesn't qualify for J.O. next weekend it won't be because she isn't taking things seriously. It'll be because she didn't take it seriously enough, early in the season. Then again, it is a very long season so we will have to wait and see how this plays out.
At any rate, the fact that she is learning at nine years old what I didn't learn until 30 is quite an accomplishment I think. Hopefully it will stick with her throughout her life and she won't have to struggle with her weight the way I do.
On the ride home she and I talked very openly about what she needed to do and how what she eats really makes a difference. She doesn't eat badly, but she eats a ton of carbs and really loves her sweets (who doesn't). Anyone who has seen a picture of her knows she probably has zero body fat on her but at this point in her training I fear that what she puts in her mouth is really whats fueling her body in the pool. She asked me to go on the USS swimming website to see what they say about nutrition and swimming, so I did. Last night she brought me a package of sour patch kids, the Halloween size bags. She said "mom, two bags of these are a serving. Did you know that". I chuckled because I didn't know that. I was so proud of her for looking and taking this seriously. Then, she did something that I was very proud of as well....she packed one bag in her lunch for today and is saving the other bag for "later". She knows that she should only eat one serving per day so she is spreading it out.
I can honestly say, if she doesn't qualify for J.O. next weekend it won't be because she isn't taking things seriously. It'll be because she didn't take it seriously enough, early in the season. Then again, it is a very long season so we will have to wait and see how this plays out.
At any rate, the fact that she is learning at nine years old what I didn't learn until 30 is quite an accomplishment I think. Hopefully it will stick with her throughout her life and she won't have to struggle with her weight the way I do.
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
friends
In the past three days I have come to find out just how many friends I have in my life thanks to Facebook. Its incredible really. I grew up thinking that I was unliked, but I think most kids go through that at some point in their lives. I just went about life and did the best I could. I always tried to laugh at myself and not take myself too seriously to cover up my insecurities. It was a survival skill I learned at a very young age and I feel it has served me well.
On Monday, Jerry and I celebrated our 14th wedding anniversary. I mentioned it in my status and was completely overwhelmed by the response I received from everyone. Plus, the friends that had been at our wedding reception still remember it to this day and reminded us of the fun as well. That was amazing!
Yesterday I wrote a blog about a nasty comment that was made about my weight to my children. The response to that was amazing as well. I always knew that my true friends would never care about something as simple as weight gain, and have reminded myself of this on a daily basis. But to see the caring responses from them, in black and white, was overwhelming. The love I felt from friends, family and students was completely overwhelming as well. I even had someone comment to me that I sure had a lot of friends who cared about me. I looked at her, my student, and said "I sure do!" and I smiled to myself because I felt the love even then.
Some people think Facebook is a complete waste of time, and it probably is. I know I spend way too much time on it, but I also know that I have reconnected with so many wonderful people. Some of those friendships go as far back as fourth grade, with someone who moved away and I never thought would see again. Some are with people from college that I lost touch with after graduation, because I am old enough to remember a time before cell phones and email! To me, Facebook has been a lifeline and a savior. It never lets me be sad for long. It never lets me get depressed. It always puts a smile on my face, no matter how angry I am. There is always someone online waiting to answer my plea for a prayer or a smile. It has gotten me through my dark days of being bedridden with back issues. Facebook is Life. That's how I feel anyway.
They say that if you have one true friend you are rich. Well, I must be a trillionaire then because I have some of the worlds best friends in my life! They are there in my time of need, at any hour of the day. It is really an incredible thing and I never could have dreamt this as a child.
If you are reading this blog, then most likely you are one of those people I am talking about. I personally thank you for being a part of my life and for allowing me into YOUR life. It is an honor and a blessing from God to be as loved as I am, and I am so thankful! My cup is overflowing with love!
May God bless you, as He has me! :)
On Monday, Jerry and I celebrated our 14th wedding anniversary. I mentioned it in my status and was completely overwhelmed by the response I received from everyone. Plus, the friends that had been at our wedding reception still remember it to this day and reminded us of the fun as well. That was amazing!
Yesterday I wrote a blog about a nasty comment that was made about my weight to my children. The response to that was amazing as well. I always knew that my true friends would never care about something as simple as weight gain, and have reminded myself of this on a daily basis. But to see the caring responses from them, in black and white, was overwhelming. The love I felt from friends, family and students was completely overwhelming as well. I even had someone comment to me that I sure had a lot of friends who cared about me. I looked at her, my student, and said "I sure do!" and I smiled to myself because I felt the love even then.
Some people think Facebook is a complete waste of time, and it probably is. I know I spend way too much time on it, but I also know that I have reconnected with so many wonderful people. Some of those friendships go as far back as fourth grade, with someone who moved away and I never thought would see again. Some are with people from college that I lost touch with after graduation, because I am old enough to remember a time before cell phones and email! To me, Facebook has been a lifeline and a savior. It never lets me be sad for long. It never lets me get depressed. It always puts a smile on my face, no matter how angry I am. There is always someone online waiting to answer my plea for a prayer or a smile. It has gotten me through my dark days of being bedridden with back issues. Facebook is Life. That's how I feel anyway.
They say that if you have one true friend you are rich. Well, I must be a trillionaire then because I have some of the worlds best friends in my life! They are there in my time of need, at any hour of the day. It is really an incredible thing and I never could have dreamt this as a child.
If you are reading this blog, then most likely you are one of those people I am talking about. I personally thank you for being a part of my life and for allowing me into YOUR life. It is an honor and a blessing from God to be as loved as I am, and I am so thankful! My cup is overflowing with love!
May God bless you, as He has me! :)
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
words can hurt more then physical pain sometimes
While I was having breakfast with my mom we were talking about my back issues and I was informing her how much better I've been feeling. She told me that while watching my kids this weekend it was brought up that someone, I will withhold who, told them that my back would stop hurting if I would just lose some weight. I was blown away. How dare they say those things to my kids! That is hurtful and mean!! What kind of message is that sending them?!
The fact of the matter is this.....I have had back problems from the time I was in middle school. I was never overweight until the last ten years and have had issues for the last 25, at least. My back issues have nothing to do with my weight and everything to do with my spine. Yes, I am overweight. But I have been told by my doctor and OB that I am in perfect health. My blood work numbers are text book and they aren't worried about my weight. Of course they would like to see me lose some weight, so would I! But my health is not being affected by it. That is a huge thing! There are many skinny, bone thin, people who are having major issues with high blood pressure, diabetes, heart issues and other illnesses. Not me. For the record....I have never been known to over eat, have always watched what I ate, and have tried to maintain some form of exercise regiment my entire life. I have had private trainers, weight watcher leaders and my doctor stumped as to why I am over weight. If someone feels I LIKE looking like this, they are sadly mistaken. I hate how I look. I just have to accept it right now.
I get very depressed lately because I am so helpless to my back problems lately. I watch people, like my friend Nikki, run and lose tons of weight. I will never be able to run. Ever! The minute I try, my back feels it. My discs can't handle the pressure, no matter how much I weighed. That in itself is depressing. I would do anything to be able to run and do races like she is, and like Jerry does. I feel like I am at such a disadvantage. It sucks, but it is my life. I have to learn how to deal with it.
I have also learned that my true friends could care less what I look like. I have never judged anyone by their looks and really dont feel I should be either, but this is life and people do judge others by lesser things then that.
I am so very hurt right now, but I will trudge on with a smile on my face as I usually do. Most people will never even know I am physically hurting or mentally hurting. I will continue on with my life and find a way to teach my children that looks shouldn't matter. I have taught my children how to find serving sizes on packages and suger grams per serving. I have made sure their lunches are well balanced between healthy food and "fun" food. They both swim three to four days per week and go outside when the weather is nice.
If there is anything I can impress on whomever is reading this it would be to never judge a book by its cover. That person may be overweight, but they may be the healthiest person you know. There may be a reason, medically, that makes them overweight. You just never know.
Thanks goes to those who don't judge me for how I look, and only by who I am!
The fact of the matter is this.....I have had back problems from the time I was in middle school. I was never overweight until the last ten years and have had issues for the last 25, at least. My back issues have nothing to do with my weight and everything to do with my spine. Yes, I am overweight. But I have been told by my doctor and OB that I am in perfect health. My blood work numbers are text book and they aren't worried about my weight. Of course they would like to see me lose some weight, so would I! But my health is not being affected by it. That is a huge thing! There are many skinny, bone thin, people who are having major issues with high blood pressure, diabetes, heart issues and other illnesses. Not me. For the record....I have never been known to over eat, have always watched what I ate, and have tried to maintain some form of exercise regiment my entire life. I have had private trainers, weight watcher leaders and my doctor stumped as to why I am over weight. If someone feels I LIKE looking like this, they are sadly mistaken. I hate how I look. I just have to accept it right now.
I get very depressed lately because I am so helpless to my back problems lately. I watch people, like my friend Nikki, run and lose tons of weight. I will never be able to run. Ever! The minute I try, my back feels it. My discs can't handle the pressure, no matter how much I weighed. That in itself is depressing. I would do anything to be able to run and do races like she is, and like Jerry does. I feel like I am at such a disadvantage. It sucks, but it is my life. I have to learn how to deal with it.
I have also learned that my true friends could care less what I look like. I have never judged anyone by their looks and really dont feel I should be either, but this is life and people do judge others by lesser things then that.
I am so very hurt right now, but I will trudge on with a smile on my face as I usually do. Most people will never even know I am physically hurting or mentally hurting. I will continue on with my life and find a way to teach my children that looks shouldn't matter. I have taught my children how to find serving sizes on packages and suger grams per serving. I have made sure their lunches are well balanced between healthy food and "fun" food. They both swim three to four days per week and go outside when the weather is nice.
If there is anything I can impress on whomever is reading this it would be to never judge a book by its cover. That person may be overweight, but they may be the healthiest person you know. There may be a reason, medically, that makes them overweight. You just never know.
Thanks goes to those who don't judge me for how I look, and only by who I am!
Saturday, September 10, 2011
9/11 toughts
I have been watching videos on youtube of the actual footage again. Wow! The memories just come rushing back like it was yesterday. I instantly get tears in my eyes and can recall every emotion and thought I had going through my head. I am just as horrified today as I was ten years ago!
Today, while watching these videos, Emily wandered over and asked what I was watching. I restarted the video so she could watch what I saw ten years ago while she was nestled safely in my belly waiting to be born. She asked why the newscasters were so confused. I told her we all were. No one really knew what was going on until that second plane hit. I told her how I remember lying in bed, having just woke up, and thought to myself "here we go again, an irresponsible pilot". Then I saw the second plane and I remember having a hard time breathing. It was as if my lungs had stopped working. Emily asked a lot of questions about my emotions and why I was tearing up as I talked to her. I told her it was something she could never understand completely, but that I wanted her to know about it and never forget what she saw in that video today.
I do know that I have some friends who believe it was a conspiracy and that the government had a hand in helping the towers fall. I've watched the footage and I've listened to the arguments. I, personally, don't believe it but I think it's more of a "letting it go" feeling then anything. The men and women who died that day do not need their memories tainted by talks of conspiracy. They need us to understand what their families have gone through without them and pray for them. That's what they need. Everyone is going to believe what they want to believe, even that the moon landing was fabricated. That is why our country is so great. We have the right to believe what we want to believe.
I feel some of the bravest people I know are firemen, policemen and military folk. They put their lives on the line everyday to keep me safe, whether it's rescuing a person who calls 911 or pulling over a car for speeding. It is all for us. I thank you for your service to me and my fellow Americans! Thank you for your tireless work and your protection for my freedoms!
As I look at the pictures and videos from ten years ago, with adult eyes now, I still feel the same. I find my breath caught in my lungs and tears rolling down my cheek. I am not naive enough to believe it will never happen again. I know better then that. I just hope that when it does happen, it is nowhere near any of my friends and loved ones! I hope that something gets found out in time so that everyone gets out safely. I pray that God has mercy on the innocent.
As I close out this blog tonight, may I just say three strong words.........
GOD BLESS AMERICA!!!!!!
Today, while watching these videos, Emily wandered over and asked what I was watching. I restarted the video so she could watch what I saw ten years ago while she was nestled safely in my belly waiting to be born. She asked why the newscasters were so confused. I told her we all were. No one really knew what was going on until that second plane hit. I told her how I remember lying in bed, having just woke up, and thought to myself "here we go again, an irresponsible pilot". Then I saw the second plane and I remember having a hard time breathing. It was as if my lungs had stopped working. Emily asked a lot of questions about my emotions and why I was tearing up as I talked to her. I told her it was something she could never understand completely, but that I wanted her to know about it and never forget what she saw in that video today.
I do know that I have some friends who believe it was a conspiracy and that the government had a hand in helping the towers fall. I've watched the footage and I've listened to the arguments. I, personally, don't believe it but I think it's more of a "letting it go" feeling then anything. The men and women who died that day do not need their memories tainted by talks of conspiracy. They need us to understand what their families have gone through without them and pray for them. That's what they need. Everyone is going to believe what they want to believe, even that the moon landing was fabricated. That is why our country is so great. We have the right to believe what we want to believe.
I feel some of the bravest people I know are firemen, policemen and military folk. They put their lives on the line everyday to keep me safe, whether it's rescuing a person who calls 911 or pulling over a car for speeding. It is all for us. I thank you for your service to me and my fellow Americans! Thank you for your tireless work and your protection for my freedoms!
As I look at the pictures and videos from ten years ago, with adult eyes now, I still feel the same. I find my breath caught in my lungs and tears rolling down my cheek. I am not naive enough to believe it will never happen again. I know better then that. I just hope that when it does happen, it is nowhere near any of my friends and loved ones! I hope that something gets found out in time so that everyone gets out safely. I pray that God has mercy on the innocent.
As I close out this blog tonight, may I just say three strong words.........
GOD BLESS AMERICA!!!!!!
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
First day of school
The day has finally come. The kids step on the bus and the house goes quiet! I was looking forward to this day for about a month now, since the craziness of having the kids with me 24/7 was really getting to me. However, after being without them for a couple hours I started to miss them. Crazy huh?
While driving home from Target I started remembering the summer and all we did. Pretty fun times really! The first part of the summer was all about swimming, swimming and more swimming. Both kids were participating in Trenton Swim Club this summer and did amazing! Chris was one of the top "8 and unders" on the team and Emily was one of the top "10 and unders". We racked up a lot of medals and ribbons between the two of them. In fact, Emily won a gold and two silvers at the state swim meet!
Our main vacation this summer was to Traverse City with the four of us, and Pokegan with the Herman family. It was such a great time! We did Go Karts, wine tasting, lighthouse looking, sight seeing, and eating!
We saw pretty much any movie that came out for kids and ate tons of popcorn, movie and homemade.
The only bummer for me was my back issues. I feel like, looking back, I didn't give them the best summer they could have had because of my limitations. We only went to the zoo once, instead of multiple times as before. We didn't go bowling, or take any walks. I was just so busy trying to recuperate that I couldn't do much else. I will always feel badly about that.
Overall, I think we had a pretty decent summer and I found myself a little bit sad that it had ended today. Having the kids back in school, with structure and friends.....its what they need.
And so the new school year begins. I wish all the teachers and students out there the best year ever! May the grades be good, the students want to learn and the parents be able to keep up with the activities!
Happy School Year Everyone!!!
While driving home from Target I started remembering the summer and all we did. Pretty fun times really! The first part of the summer was all about swimming, swimming and more swimming. Both kids were participating in Trenton Swim Club this summer and did amazing! Chris was one of the top "8 and unders" on the team and Emily was one of the top "10 and unders". We racked up a lot of medals and ribbons between the two of them. In fact, Emily won a gold and two silvers at the state swim meet!
Our main vacation this summer was to Traverse City with the four of us, and Pokegan with the Herman family. It was such a great time! We did Go Karts, wine tasting, lighthouse looking, sight seeing, and eating!
We saw pretty much any movie that came out for kids and ate tons of popcorn, movie and homemade.
The only bummer for me was my back issues. I feel like, looking back, I didn't give them the best summer they could have had because of my limitations. We only went to the zoo once, instead of multiple times as before. We didn't go bowling, or take any walks. I was just so busy trying to recuperate that I couldn't do much else. I will always feel badly about that.
Overall, I think we had a pretty decent summer and I found myself a little bit sad that it had ended today. Having the kids back in school, with structure and friends.....its what they need.
And so the new school year begins. I wish all the teachers and students out there the best year ever! May the grades be good, the students want to learn and the parents be able to keep up with the activities!
Happy School Year Everyone!!!
Sunday, August 7, 2011
Emily's State Meet
So, I was told by a friend that I needed to update my blog with Emily's newest results.....so here I am!
Emily was invited to swim in the State Meet by her coach. The events she was invited to swim in were two relays, the 100 Freestyle and 100 IM (individual Medly....one lap of each stroke). She swims in the 10 and under events and is 9, so she is one of the youngest in her events. Going into this Meet she was very nervous. I think she really feels the pressure of being a good swimmer. She was having major troubles sleeping and didn't want to go to practices in the mornings. By thursday I had to do some "mommy work" and talk to her about her problems and how to help her. In the end she decided to give the last two practices her all and kicked some serious butt!
When we got to the pool on Saturday moning Emily was pretty darn nervous. She told me she was worried she would let people down if she didn't win. Well, she didn't disappoint at all!
The first medley relay ended up taking third place. I still think the coach should have re-thought who swam what stroke because I just don't feel he put them on their strongest stroke. For example...emily, this summer, has been horrible at backstroke. It just isn't her strong stroke, yet he had her lead the relay off with the backstroke and that put them behind right off the bat. Anyway....Bronze medal was good, but then someone got DQ'd so they ended up with silver. Not bad at all!
Next up was her 100 Free event. She was the top seeded time so she had a good start going in. She knew this and I think it settled her a bit. Anyway, she dove in and took off. She had the lead all four lengths until the last two strokes when she tired out. The girl next to her had a burst of speed and ended up taking the Gold from Emily by .02 secends!! Can you believe it? By .02 seconds!! Unbelievable!!!
Her third event was her best event...the 100 IM. She was up against her biggest rival this summer, a girl named Lauren. She has been trying to beat Lauren all summer and is looking forward to the girl aging up to the next age group in the fall. That means that Lauren is almost 11, basically a little over a year older then Emily. I set my recorder and in Emily dove to start her race. Emily's butterfly stroke is really good and so she kept up with Lauren for most of that length. Then come backstroke, which is NOT her strong stroke. That length put her about two body lengths behind Lauren. At this point there really is no one close to these two girls! When Lauren hits the wall to do Breaststroke something happens and she flubs the turn, which gave Emily a bit of a chance at catching her. While swimming the breaststroke lap Emily was closing the gap. This last week the coach had really worked on her breaststroke to make it stronger so I think part of that kicked in. When Lauren made her turn Emily took three more strokes, hit the wall, did her turn and TOOK OFF! She was moving so fast I couldn't believe it. She wanted that win so bad you could just see it in her stroke! She ended up passing Lauren half way down the last lap and won by a couple seconds!! Woooo hoooo!!!! I was going crazy. The only thing was, I was trying very hard to not go completely nutso since Laurens' whole family was sitting directly next to Jerry and me. I told them that was an amazing race and that Lauren did great and then we left the stands. I did a little victory dance in the stairway while no one was watching! :)
Emily's last relay took third and was a pretty fun race to watch as well!
Overall, Emily ended up with a Gold, two Silvers, and somehow a fourth place ribbon for the last relay (that they really got third in). She wore her medals to church today and really never took them off. Normally she doesn't care about the ribbons or medals but the State ones she does. Father Rick awknowledged her at the end of the service and had her stand up to show the congregation her medals. What a proud moment for her and for us as her parents! I felt it was appropriate as God most definately gave her the ability to swim like she can and the fighting spirit that lets her win so many races!!
I will add the links to her events on here. Feel free to watch and enjoy!! If you are down in the dumps and need a spirit lifted, watch her Gold Medal 100 IM video. Just make sure to turn your volume down, you dont' need to hear me screaming in your ears!! :)
100 Freestyle...Silver Medal
http://youtu.be/O744evZIPhY
100 IM....Gold Medal
http://youtu.be/VXU3oxPWL24
Emily was invited to swim in the State Meet by her coach. The events she was invited to swim in were two relays, the 100 Freestyle and 100 IM (individual Medly....one lap of each stroke). She swims in the 10 and under events and is 9, so she is one of the youngest in her events. Going into this Meet she was very nervous. I think she really feels the pressure of being a good swimmer. She was having major troubles sleeping and didn't want to go to practices in the mornings. By thursday I had to do some "mommy work" and talk to her about her problems and how to help her. In the end she decided to give the last two practices her all and kicked some serious butt!
When we got to the pool on Saturday moning Emily was pretty darn nervous. She told me she was worried she would let people down if she didn't win. Well, she didn't disappoint at all!
The first medley relay ended up taking third place. I still think the coach should have re-thought who swam what stroke because I just don't feel he put them on their strongest stroke. For example...emily, this summer, has been horrible at backstroke. It just isn't her strong stroke, yet he had her lead the relay off with the backstroke and that put them behind right off the bat. Anyway....Bronze medal was good, but then someone got DQ'd so they ended up with silver. Not bad at all!
Next up was her 100 Free event. She was the top seeded time so she had a good start going in. She knew this and I think it settled her a bit. Anyway, she dove in and took off. She had the lead all four lengths until the last two strokes when she tired out. The girl next to her had a burst of speed and ended up taking the Gold from Emily by .02 secends!! Can you believe it? By .02 seconds!! Unbelievable!!!
Her third event was her best event...the 100 IM. She was up against her biggest rival this summer, a girl named Lauren. She has been trying to beat Lauren all summer and is looking forward to the girl aging up to the next age group in the fall. That means that Lauren is almost 11, basically a little over a year older then Emily. I set my recorder and in Emily dove to start her race. Emily's butterfly stroke is really good and so she kept up with Lauren for most of that length. Then come backstroke, which is NOT her strong stroke. That length put her about two body lengths behind Lauren. At this point there really is no one close to these two girls! When Lauren hits the wall to do Breaststroke something happens and she flubs the turn, which gave Emily a bit of a chance at catching her. While swimming the breaststroke lap Emily was closing the gap. This last week the coach had really worked on her breaststroke to make it stronger so I think part of that kicked in. When Lauren made her turn Emily took three more strokes, hit the wall, did her turn and TOOK OFF! She was moving so fast I couldn't believe it. She wanted that win so bad you could just see it in her stroke! She ended up passing Lauren half way down the last lap and won by a couple seconds!! Woooo hoooo!!!! I was going crazy. The only thing was, I was trying very hard to not go completely nutso since Laurens' whole family was sitting directly next to Jerry and me. I told them that was an amazing race and that Lauren did great and then we left the stands. I did a little victory dance in the stairway while no one was watching! :)
Emily's last relay took third and was a pretty fun race to watch as well!
Overall, Emily ended up with a Gold, two Silvers, and somehow a fourth place ribbon for the last relay (that they really got third in). She wore her medals to church today and really never took them off. Normally she doesn't care about the ribbons or medals but the State ones she does. Father Rick awknowledged her at the end of the service and had her stand up to show the congregation her medals. What a proud moment for her and for us as her parents! I felt it was appropriate as God most definately gave her the ability to swim like she can and the fighting spirit that lets her win so many races!!
I will add the links to her events on here. Feel free to watch and enjoy!! If you are down in the dumps and need a spirit lifted, watch her Gold Medal 100 IM video. Just make sure to turn your volume down, you dont' need to hear me screaming in your ears!! :)
100 Freestyle...Silver Medal
http://youtu.be/O744evZIPhY
100 IM....Gold Medal
http://youtu.be/VXU3oxPWL24
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
League Championship Meet Videos
The kids had their championship meet this morning. It started out pretty rough for emily. She just couldn't fall aleep last night and ended up finally succumbing at about 2am. She had to be in the pool for warm ups at 7:30! She didn't talk much as we got her ready and I had to force her to eat something. Once she dove in the pool for her warm up she was better.
Chris swam two relays, 25 Backstroke and 25 Breaststroke (of which he didn't really know how to do)
Emily swam two relays, 50 Backstroke and 50 Freestyle.
Chris took 4th place in Back and 5th in Breast. Emily took 4th place in Back as well and 7th in Free. For Emily's events there were anywhere from 24 to 32 kids, so her placements are excellant!!!
We are so proud of both the kids and are looking forward to the State Meet for Emily next saturday, Aug. 6!
Here are the videos of the kids:
Chris' 25 Backstroke
Emily's 50 Backstroke
Chris' 25 Breast.....almost completely done underwater..lol
Emily's 50 Freestyle...personal best time!
I hope you enjoyed my kids swimming! :)
Chris swam two relays, 25 Backstroke and 25 Breaststroke (of which he didn't really know how to do)
Emily swam two relays, 50 Backstroke and 50 Freestyle.
Chris took 4th place in Back and 5th in Breast. Emily took 4th place in Back as well and 7th in Free. For Emily's events there were anywhere from 24 to 32 kids, so her placements are excellant!!!
We are so proud of both the kids and are looking forward to the State Meet for Emily next saturday, Aug. 6!
Here are the videos of the kids:
Chris' 25 Backstroke
Emily's 50 Backstroke
Chris' 25 Breast.....almost completely done underwater..lol
Emily's 50 Freestyle...personal best time!
I hope you enjoyed my kids swimming! :)
Sunday, June 19, 2011
Emily's swim meet
Emily had a long course swim meet yesterday. That means that the pool length was 50 meters instead of 25 yards, and is considered an olympic size pool. It was a USS swim meet with judges all along the pool. It was a beautiful day, not too hot or cold. We had front row seats, thanks to my parents for getting there early, and could see just about everything.
Emily was swimming four events...three individual events and one relay. The events were 50 backstroke, 100 breaststroke, 50 freestyle (all three in the 10 and under age group) and the 400 medley relay (12 and under age group) Emily was placed pretty well in the individual races. In all of her races there were at least 75 kids per race, which broke down to about 8 heats or more. The fastest kids are in the last few heats. Emily was constantly in the second or third to last heat. She was ranked about 20th in one event, 16 in another and I can't remember the third but it was basically the same.
Emily didn't beat any personal bests necessarily, but I am proud of her for going out there and doing her best! Here are the videos of her events.
50 meter backstroke....
http://youtu.be/cRR9e_VhCnc
100 Breaststroke...
http://youtu.be/y1cVQlFO6ps
50 Freestyle...
http://youtu.be/X6BlNRhuCSA
Enjoy! There will be more to come throughout the summer! :)
Emily was swimming four events...three individual events and one relay. The events were 50 backstroke, 100 breaststroke, 50 freestyle (all three in the 10 and under age group) and the 400 medley relay (12 and under age group) Emily was placed pretty well in the individual races. In all of her races there were at least 75 kids per race, which broke down to about 8 heats or more. The fastest kids are in the last few heats. Emily was constantly in the second or third to last heat. She was ranked about 20th in one event, 16 in another and I can't remember the third but it was basically the same.
Emily didn't beat any personal bests necessarily, but I am proud of her for going out there and doing her best! Here are the videos of her events.
50 meter backstroke....
http://youtu.be/cRR9e_VhCnc
100 Breaststroke...
http://youtu.be/y1cVQlFO6ps
50 Freestyle...
http://youtu.be/X6BlNRhuCSA
Enjoy! There will be more to come throughout the summer! :)
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
chris and his bully
So, my son had a bully in kindergarten and first grade. His name was Joey. Joey disguised himself as a friend but then would always try to get Chris in trouble. He made it his mission in school, to get Chris in trouble. In kindergarten it was just things like kicking Chris in the back during carpet time. Chris would get up and move and then get in trouble for moving during the lesson. It was little things like that, and Chris just didn't know how to handle it. He was dealing with his ADD on top of that and we dealt with one issue at a time.
In first grade Joey was put in a separate class so as not to bother Chris anymore, at my request. But lunch time recess was nothing any of us could control. He would come up to Chris and trip him, or punch him, or kick him. We started to tell Chris to fight back, knowing he might get in trouble. I had a conference with both teachers, Chris' and Joey's, to try and get things to stop. It didn't really work. The lunch moms weren't doing anything about it and weren't telling the teachers, so most of the time the teachers had no idea what was happening. I had assumed Chris was letting the teacher know...and so went the entire year of miscommunication. The last week of first grade Chris broke down and begged to be transferred to a different school. I finally had it, and talked to his teacher at one of the end of the year field trips. She was shocked at the things I told her and promised that Chris' last week of school would be peaceful. Joey ended up having indoor recess during lunches so that Chris wouldn't be bothered and then Joey was transferred to a different school. It was suppose to help him with his mental issues. Chris was overjoyed at the prospect of having a "Joey free" second grade.
Second grade, this past school year, was so peaceful. Chris thrived in his new class with his new friends and not having Joey to deal with. His grades got better. His behavior issues got better. It was a great year for him!
Last night, at Emily's softball game, Chris and I were sitting in the stands. He was playing his DSi and I was watching warm ups. I looked up and saw Joey coming into the stands. He looked at me, then at Chris, and went to sit with his mom. His cousin, or sister, is on Em's team. He didn't say anything for awhile but he was starting to talk loudly about Mario Bros and things he knew Chris was interested in. When that didn't catch Chris' attention he started to mention Chapman Elementary, "where he used to go to school". Then he started talking to his brother about this kid named Christopher who used to go to school with him. The whole time this is going on, Chris is completely ignoring him. He knows it's Joey and made the decision to ignore him. Well, this went on and on and on for the whole game. It got so bad that the kid was standing behind Chris, breathing on his neck while watching him play his game. He kept saying that he knew he was Chris. Chris, Chris, Chris, Chris, Chris Herman...etc etc. Then when Chris went to the bathroom with Jerry Joey came up to me and said "you're chris' mom". I looked at him and said..."yep"....then continued to concentrate on the game. That through him for a loop because I just acknowledged that we knew who he was but were choosing to ignore him. When Chris came back he proceeded to put his earplugs in so he didn't have to hear Joey. That just infuriated Joey, which made Chris happy. I think you get the idea on the whole two hours.
I am just so proud of my son. He stood up for himself to this kid by ignoring him. He didn't take any of the bait! At the end of the game, Joey yelled to Chris..."hey Chris"...and Chris forgot and said "yeah?". Joey..."wanna play with us"....Chris "no thank you". I patted his head and we left for the car. It is amazing to me how grown up one kid can get in one year. I have so much respect for my child today and know that he will do OK in life. He stood his ground, as hard as it was to do. He didn't let Joey get to him. It is amazing to watch your child figure things out like that and I will never forget that. Also, to hear him retell it to Emily and hear her respond to him....it was fun to listen to.
To my wonderful son.....you are growing up to be a fantastic kid. I am proud to say I am your mom and that you are my son! Keep it up! You will go far in life!!! I love you so much, Christopher Michael Herman!! :)
In first grade Joey was put in a separate class so as not to bother Chris anymore, at my request. But lunch time recess was nothing any of us could control. He would come up to Chris and trip him, or punch him, or kick him. We started to tell Chris to fight back, knowing he might get in trouble. I had a conference with both teachers, Chris' and Joey's, to try and get things to stop. It didn't really work. The lunch moms weren't doing anything about it and weren't telling the teachers, so most of the time the teachers had no idea what was happening. I had assumed Chris was letting the teacher know...and so went the entire year of miscommunication. The last week of first grade Chris broke down and begged to be transferred to a different school. I finally had it, and talked to his teacher at one of the end of the year field trips. She was shocked at the things I told her and promised that Chris' last week of school would be peaceful. Joey ended up having indoor recess during lunches so that Chris wouldn't be bothered and then Joey was transferred to a different school. It was suppose to help him with his mental issues. Chris was overjoyed at the prospect of having a "Joey free" second grade.
Second grade, this past school year, was so peaceful. Chris thrived in his new class with his new friends and not having Joey to deal with. His grades got better. His behavior issues got better. It was a great year for him!
Last night, at Emily's softball game, Chris and I were sitting in the stands. He was playing his DSi and I was watching warm ups. I looked up and saw Joey coming into the stands. He looked at me, then at Chris, and went to sit with his mom. His cousin, or sister, is on Em's team. He didn't say anything for awhile but he was starting to talk loudly about Mario Bros and things he knew Chris was interested in. When that didn't catch Chris' attention he started to mention Chapman Elementary, "where he used to go to school". Then he started talking to his brother about this kid named Christopher who used to go to school with him. The whole time this is going on, Chris is completely ignoring him. He knows it's Joey and made the decision to ignore him. Well, this went on and on and on for the whole game. It got so bad that the kid was standing behind Chris, breathing on his neck while watching him play his game. He kept saying that he knew he was Chris. Chris, Chris, Chris, Chris, Chris Herman...etc etc. Then when Chris went to the bathroom with Jerry Joey came up to me and said "you're chris' mom". I looked at him and said..."yep"....then continued to concentrate on the game. That through him for a loop because I just acknowledged that we knew who he was but were choosing to ignore him. When Chris came back he proceeded to put his earplugs in so he didn't have to hear Joey. That just infuriated Joey, which made Chris happy. I think you get the idea on the whole two hours.
I am just so proud of my son. He stood up for himself to this kid by ignoring him. He didn't take any of the bait! At the end of the game, Joey yelled to Chris..."hey Chris"...and Chris forgot and said "yeah?". Joey..."wanna play with us"....Chris "no thank you". I patted his head and we left for the car. It is amazing to me how grown up one kid can get in one year. I have so much respect for my child today and know that he will do OK in life. He stood his ground, as hard as it was to do. He didn't let Joey get to him. It is amazing to watch your child figure things out like that and I will never forget that. Also, to hear him retell it to Emily and hear her respond to him....it was fun to listen to.
To my wonderful son.....you are growing up to be a fantastic kid. I am proud to say I am your mom and that you are my son! Keep it up! You will go far in life!!! I love you so much, Christopher Michael Herman!! :)
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
My horrible thursday night.
So, my 2005 Taurus gave out on me. I was on my way to work Thursday afternoon and had swung by the Starbucks beforehand. I needed that shot of espresso to get me through the whole afternoon of teaching. When I pulled back onto Southfield my transmission just wouldn't shift gears. The tachometer was going crazy! I managed to make it to work and called Jerry. He didn't answer so I called my friend Bill. He told me he'd meet me at work when I was done and take a look at it. I was also supposed to meet my friend Karen after work, we were going to go see a movie at the IMAX theater that night.
I taught my students and then went into the lobby of the studio and saw both of them sitting there, so we headed out to look at the car. Karen ran to the closest gas station to buy some trans fluid, couldn't hurt to try that first. Didn't work. After a while of trying different things, driving it around (or attempting to drive it around) I finally called AAA for a tow truck. Bill and Karen stayed with me through out the wait, of which I was so grateful!
Now, the story of the tow truck ride is a whole other ball game. That guy was NUTS!! He loaded my car onto the bed of his truck and locked it down. So far so good. Then he turned to me and told me he wanted me to ride with him. I asked him if that was really necessary since I had friends to ride with, and he said yes. I looked at my two friends and told them to follow the truck, and asked them to not lose me! This tow truck guy was just weird. I got in the cab and the guy takes off. Not slowly, mind you, fast! He pulls onto Southfield and runs the first yellow light. Now we've already lost Bill. He wasnt' even out of the parking lot yet. Karen stuck close! Through the next yellow, and the next. He didn't like to slow down or stop. I looked in the side mirror and still saw Karen behind us. Now we are turning onto Biddle to go south into Trenton and the driver pulls out his GPS. Instead of just letting me tell him where the place is, he is trying to load it into the keyboard. The truck is kind of weaving now and I'm getting a bit scared. He comes up on a light that is red, with two cars in front of us, but he's not stopping because he is too busy looking at the GPS. I start making some noises like "ah ah ah ah", I just cant seem to find my words to yell "hey jackass! There is a red light!!" . He looks up and yells some choice words, swerves into the turn lane and stops for the light, barely. Karen is watching this and just can't believe her eyes! We drive through Wyandotte and get to a major intersection where the light turns yellow. I assume he's going to plow through it, like usual, but NO....he decides to slow down as if he's going to stop. Then at the last minute, he plows through the light...full steam ahead! Karen is now stuck for the light. She races up to catch us when the light turned, telling me that she went pretty pretty fast to catch up to us. We did manage to get to the garage, but boy it was quite the ride!
Karen and I had already missed the movie so the three of us went to Mr. Nicks for some dinner and a couple beers. I have some of the best friends out there! I would have been lost without them.
Since that night I have sold my car to the garage, and took a loss I'm sure, and bought a new Dodge Journey. With the kids getting older and needing room for bags, equipment and gear I think this is going to work out nicely. I am NOT going to like the second car payment but we did it before, we can do it again. It'll just take some adjusting. The car is not loaded with all the high tech stuff, but it has enough for me to need to get used to it!
People have said I am spoiled for getting a new car but in reality, I will have this car for seven years. It just made more sense to get a new car at this point in our life. Right now, I'm just thankful I came out of the two truck experience alive! :)
I taught my students and then went into the lobby of the studio and saw both of them sitting there, so we headed out to look at the car. Karen ran to the closest gas station to buy some trans fluid, couldn't hurt to try that first. Didn't work. After a while of trying different things, driving it around (or attempting to drive it around) I finally called AAA for a tow truck. Bill and Karen stayed with me through out the wait, of which I was so grateful!
Now, the story of the tow truck ride is a whole other ball game. That guy was NUTS!! He loaded my car onto the bed of his truck and locked it down. So far so good. Then he turned to me and told me he wanted me to ride with him. I asked him if that was really necessary since I had friends to ride with, and he said yes. I looked at my two friends and told them to follow the truck, and asked them to not lose me! This tow truck guy was just weird. I got in the cab and the guy takes off. Not slowly, mind you, fast! He pulls onto Southfield and runs the first yellow light. Now we've already lost Bill. He wasnt' even out of the parking lot yet. Karen stuck close! Through the next yellow, and the next. He didn't like to slow down or stop. I looked in the side mirror and still saw Karen behind us. Now we are turning onto Biddle to go south into Trenton and the driver pulls out his GPS. Instead of just letting me tell him where the place is, he is trying to load it into the keyboard. The truck is kind of weaving now and I'm getting a bit scared. He comes up on a light that is red, with two cars in front of us, but he's not stopping because he is too busy looking at the GPS. I start making some noises like "ah ah ah ah", I just cant seem to find my words to yell "hey jackass! There is a red light!!" . He looks up and yells some choice words, swerves into the turn lane and stops for the light, barely. Karen is watching this and just can't believe her eyes! We drive through Wyandotte and get to a major intersection where the light turns yellow. I assume he's going to plow through it, like usual, but NO....he decides to slow down as if he's going to stop. Then at the last minute, he plows through the light...full steam ahead! Karen is now stuck for the light. She races up to catch us when the light turned, telling me that she went pretty pretty fast to catch up to us. We did manage to get to the garage, but boy it was quite the ride!
Karen and I had already missed the movie so the three of us went to Mr. Nicks for some dinner and a couple beers. I have some of the best friends out there! I would have been lost without them.
Since that night I have sold my car to the garage, and took a loss I'm sure, and bought a new Dodge Journey. With the kids getting older and needing room for bags, equipment and gear I think this is going to work out nicely. I am NOT going to like the second car payment but we did it before, we can do it again. It'll just take some adjusting. The car is not loaded with all the high tech stuff, but it has enough for me to need to get used to it!
People have said I am spoiled for getting a new car but in reality, I will have this car for seven years. It just made more sense to get a new car at this point in our life. Right now, I'm just thankful I came out of the two truck experience alive! :)
Thursday, June 9, 2011
Thank you God!
This morning was quite an eye opener. At 5:30am Jerry and I were jolted out of bed by a bright light, the house shaking and the sound of bricks falling. We thought our house had been hit by lightning. A quick check told us that we were fine and looking out the window it looked like the neighbors were fine. Jerry went to lay with Emily, who was freaking out, and I went back to bed.
When I woke up the kids I checked my FB really quick and saw Jerry's status, that the neighbors house had been hit by lightning and half the roof was gone. I was in shock! I made the kids lunch, like everyday, and then ran outside to see for myself. I had instant tears. When I went back in Emily wanted to see so she put her shoes on and outside she went. When she came back in she looked like she was in shock too. We talked about how lucky we were and I reminded her about how every day we have on this earth is a gift from God and that we need to treasure our lives together. I think she finally gets it!
When we went out to look for the bus we noticed a TON of kids at our stop (our driveway). Kids I had never seen before were now at our bus stop. They all wanted to see "the house", so they walked two blocks to our stop. Crazy! After the bus had left I ran in, got dressed, and started to walk down there to see if there was anything I could do to help.
As I was walking down there, Cindy saw me (the wife of the house) and started walking towards me. I gave her a huge hug and asked her if she was OK. She started to explain what happened. The corner of their house was hit by lightning which instantly ignited the roof into flames. She didn't even know. Never heard a thing. Either did Brook, the youngest daughter. A neighbor from down the street, she doesn't know who it was, woke her up by pounding on her front door trying to get them to wake up. He basically saved their lives. The oldest daughter was at a friends house for the night and the husband is out of town for work. Someone had driven by and saw the fire, and called Chelsea at her friends house to say she should probably call home, that he thought her house was on fire. Chelsea tried to call but couldn't get through. She found her way home and realized that everyone was safe.
I just can't even imagine having to deal with all of that. I am so thankful to God right now. I am thankful that it wasn't my house. I am thankful that the whole family is safe down the street. I am thankful for another day on this glorious earth!
To anyone who follows my blog, you are loved. I appreciate every single one of my friends and family! I don't take one day for granted or one relationship for granted. Thank you for being a part of my life and know that you are appreciated!!
When I woke up the kids I checked my FB really quick and saw Jerry's status, that the neighbors house had been hit by lightning and half the roof was gone. I was in shock! I made the kids lunch, like everyday, and then ran outside to see for myself. I had instant tears. When I went back in Emily wanted to see so she put her shoes on and outside she went. When she came back in she looked like she was in shock too. We talked about how lucky we were and I reminded her about how every day we have on this earth is a gift from God and that we need to treasure our lives together. I think she finally gets it!
When we went out to look for the bus we noticed a TON of kids at our stop (our driveway). Kids I had never seen before were now at our bus stop. They all wanted to see "the house", so they walked two blocks to our stop. Crazy! After the bus had left I ran in, got dressed, and started to walk down there to see if there was anything I could do to help.
As I was walking down there, Cindy saw me (the wife of the house) and started walking towards me. I gave her a huge hug and asked her if she was OK. She started to explain what happened. The corner of their house was hit by lightning which instantly ignited the roof into flames. She didn't even know. Never heard a thing. Either did Brook, the youngest daughter. A neighbor from down the street, she doesn't know who it was, woke her up by pounding on her front door trying to get them to wake up. He basically saved their lives. The oldest daughter was at a friends house for the night and the husband is out of town for work. Someone had driven by and saw the fire, and called Chelsea at her friends house to say she should probably call home, that he thought her house was on fire. Chelsea tried to call but couldn't get through. She found her way home and realized that everyone was safe.
I just can't even imagine having to deal with all of that. I am so thankful to God right now. I am thankful that it wasn't my house. I am thankful that the whole family is safe down the street. I am thankful for another day on this glorious earth!
To anyone who follows my blog, you are loved. I appreciate every single one of my friends and family! I don't take one day for granted or one relationship for granted. Thank you for being a part of my life and know that you are appreciated!!
Friday, June 3, 2011
Wow! What a week!
So, I know it's been a really long time since I've blogged. Honestly, I just haven't felt like it. I have been really busy, but not blog worthy stuff really.
About three weeks ago my choir, Seaway Chorale, had its spring concert. We celebrated the four past directors and had a fabulous concert. I finally got the solo I have been dreaming of for years, On My Own from Les Miserables! I have auditioned for it at least four times and ended up with it this time around. I always knew I would rock it out but for some reason no director felt I would until now. I got up there and put myself into the role. I put all my heart and soul into my performance and was told that it was my best ever! I was so proud of myself!
Since then I have made some major decisions in my life that has had me kind of down in the dumps. I have spent the last ten years on the Board of Governors, nine of them spent as the Music Manager. That means that I have had a hand in what music is sung on the concerts and have loved that role! I enjoy being a leader in an organization that has been a part of my life for the last 30 years. It has been stressful and not free of much drama, but I have loved every minute of it. Last week I stepped down. I was asked by my family, parents and some friends to consider it for the last two years and after much bugging I decided that I must be missing something they aren't. I must be so stressed out and upset that I just can't see the forest for the trees. Well, they were wrong. I was right. Basically, I spent last tuesday crying all day long, knowing that I was giving up my beloved spot on the board that night. I sat in my car outside the church where the annual meeting was being held and bawled my eyes out. I just didn't think I could make my legs take me in there. It was one of the saddest days of my life, I will admit. During the meeting I couldn't really talk to anyone and felt like I was attending my own funeral. A little dramatic you say? Maybe. The fact is Seaway is my life. I loved being a part of helping it succeed. Now I am no longer that person. I feel like a part of me has died. That was the start of a very long week.
I have been trying to walk everyday, until a couple days ago when my knee started acting up. It is so swollen, so I took a break. I was really enjoying my time in the fresh air and sun but now feel like I am once again unable to do things I want.
Now this week I have sang at two funerals. I have my third one tomorrow. It has made me really think about what is important and value the life I have. The first funeral was for my H.S. swim coach's wife, Donna Monas. Max was very touched that I sang and played the funeral, so that made it worth doing! As I stood in front of the congregation, I looked out and saw so many of my old teachers....it was a bit overwhelming. I saw swimmers from my era and parents of students. I remember, back in high school , when Max and the other coach Jim would get so upset at the thought of me spending my summers at Interlochen instead of swimming. I would tell them that I couldn't make money with swimming but I could with music. It was always an issue. Swimming and Music just didn't mix well back then. Now, this week, I was able to take that music and comfort him in his time of grief. That was a very overwhelming feeling. I realized the irony in it and just hoped that he understood finally. When Max sat me at his families table for the luncheon I realized he really did. I was overwhelmed at him doing that, and realized just how close you really do get to your coaches growing up. They are like second or third fathers, mentors, and rocks!
The second funeral was for my friend Sylvia's mother and tomorrow's funeral is for my other friend Denise's father. Both ladies are in Seaway Chorale with me and it is nice that they want us to celebrate their parents lives with them.
All of these funerals have made me pause and think about life a bit. I am a very lucky person. I have a wonderful family, living parents, and tons of friends who would do just about anything for me! What more can you want? Life is good, and I just need to remember that on a daily basis.
Hug your kids, your parents, your spouse and your friends. Cherish every relationship you have, no matter how good or messed up they are! You just never know when He will call you back home!
I love all of you!!
About three weeks ago my choir, Seaway Chorale, had its spring concert. We celebrated the four past directors and had a fabulous concert. I finally got the solo I have been dreaming of for years, On My Own from Les Miserables! I have auditioned for it at least four times and ended up with it this time around. I always knew I would rock it out but for some reason no director felt I would until now. I got up there and put myself into the role. I put all my heart and soul into my performance and was told that it was my best ever! I was so proud of myself!
Since then I have made some major decisions in my life that has had me kind of down in the dumps. I have spent the last ten years on the Board of Governors, nine of them spent as the Music Manager. That means that I have had a hand in what music is sung on the concerts and have loved that role! I enjoy being a leader in an organization that has been a part of my life for the last 30 years. It has been stressful and not free of much drama, but I have loved every minute of it. Last week I stepped down. I was asked by my family, parents and some friends to consider it for the last two years and after much bugging I decided that I must be missing something they aren't. I must be so stressed out and upset that I just can't see the forest for the trees. Well, they were wrong. I was right. Basically, I spent last tuesday crying all day long, knowing that I was giving up my beloved spot on the board that night. I sat in my car outside the church where the annual meeting was being held and bawled my eyes out. I just didn't think I could make my legs take me in there. It was one of the saddest days of my life, I will admit. During the meeting I couldn't really talk to anyone and felt like I was attending my own funeral. A little dramatic you say? Maybe. The fact is Seaway is my life. I loved being a part of helping it succeed. Now I am no longer that person. I feel like a part of me has died. That was the start of a very long week.
I have been trying to walk everyday, until a couple days ago when my knee started acting up. It is so swollen, so I took a break. I was really enjoying my time in the fresh air and sun but now feel like I am once again unable to do things I want.
Now this week I have sang at two funerals. I have my third one tomorrow. It has made me really think about what is important and value the life I have. The first funeral was for my H.S. swim coach's wife, Donna Monas. Max was very touched that I sang and played the funeral, so that made it worth doing! As I stood in front of the congregation, I looked out and saw so many of my old teachers....it was a bit overwhelming. I saw swimmers from my era and parents of students. I remember, back in high school , when Max and the other coach Jim would get so upset at the thought of me spending my summers at Interlochen instead of swimming. I would tell them that I couldn't make money with swimming but I could with music. It was always an issue. Swimming and Music just didn't mix well back then. Now, this week, I was able to take that music and comfort him in his time of grief. That was a very overwhelming feeling. I realized the irony in it and just hoped that he understood finally. When Max sat me at his families table for the luncheon I realized he really did. I was overwhelmed at him doing that, and realized just how close you really do get to your coaches growing up. They are like second or third fathers, mentors, and rocks!
The second funeral was for my friend Sylvia's mother and tomorrow's funeral is for my other friend Denise's father. Both ladies are in Seaway Chorale with me and it is nice that they want us to celebrate their parents lives with them.
All of these funerals have made me pause and think about life a bit. I am a very lucky person. I have a wonderful family, living parents, and tons of friends who would do just about anything for me! What more can you want? Life is good, and I just need to remember that on a daily basis.
Hug your kids, your parents, your spouse and your friends. Cherish every relationship you have, no matter how good or messed up they are! You just never know when He will call you back home!
Monday, April 18, 2011
My awesome weekend
So, this past weekend was my friend, Nikki's, birthday. Three of us made plans to head out together saturday in Grand Haven for the citywide blues festival going on. We started out at a place called Kirby's, where we settled in for happy hour. $1.99 cosmos...how can you go wrong? Well, very easily with those prices, let me tell you! We had a few there and also ordered a pizza as a snack. After the band started, and we realized it wasn't really blues music, we moved on to a new brewery pub across the street. I can't remember the name of it, but they had some very interesting beer. I was feeling like I needed a small break so I ordered just a plain rootbeer. The band was great there, so we stuck around until their break. We decided that we should have dinner so we walked to Portobello's and had a yummy dinner, with dessert. I had the chicken marsala and thought it was pretty good. Peanut butter pie for dessert! After dinner we moved to The Grand, which is a lobby of an old movie theater. The band there was amazing and we stayed here for awhile. My friend Nikki, who's birthday weeekend it was, had about nine martinis throughout the night. I think I only had 5 over an eight hour span. Not too bad I dont think.
Angie, Nikki and I always have a blast when we get together and this time was no exception. The laughs we shared cannot be compared to anything else. There is always something that makes our day and ends up being our catch phrase for that weekend. One time it was a guy driving like a mad man, down a one way street backwards. That was a classic laughing fit that we couldn't stop for hours afterwards. (VVRRROOOOMMM). Just seeing that word can have me giggling for a few minutes. Then there was the magic car ride, with Randy and Angie. That was another classic night. Now we have "dude, where's my car?". For some reason we couldn't find Angie's car. It's a new car and we just couldn't find it. We finally find it, get in, and start on our way home. We're driving though the city and all of a sudden I realize that we just went through a red light, with Angie driving. I casually asked her if she realized that was a red light. She paused, looked at me, and started to laugh. That just set us off again. I haven't laughed that hard in months!
What I have come to realize is that if you have a couple friends you can completely let your guard down with and enjoy completely, then you are absolutely blessed! I thank God everyday for the people in my life, and these two girls are on the top of my list! They may live far away but I know if I needed them they would be there!
Thank you ladies, for a fabulous weekend! Let's do it again sometime soon!!
Angie, Nikki and I always have a blast when we get together and this time was no exception. The laughs we shared cannot be compared to anything else. There is always something that makes our day and ends up being our catch phrase for that weekend. One time it was a guy driving like a mad man, down a one way street backwards. That was a classic laughing fit that we couldn't stop for hours afterwards. (VVRRROOOOMMM). Just seeing that word can have me giggling for a few minutes. Then there was the magic car ride, with Randy and Angie. That was another classic night. Now we have "dude, where's my car?". For some reason we couldn't find Angie's car. It's a new car and we just couldn't find it. We finally find it, get in, and start on our way home. We're driving though the city and all of a sudden I realize that we just went through a red light, with Angie driving. I casually asked her if she realized that was a red light. She paused, looked at me, and started to laugh. That just set us off again. I haven't laughed that hard in months!
What I have come to realize is that if you have a couple friends you can completely let your guard down with and enjoy completely, then you are absolutely blessed! I thank God everyday for the people in my life, and these two girls are on the top of my list! They may live far away but I know if I needed them they would be there!
Thank you ladies, for a fabulous weekend! Let's do it again sometime soon!!
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