The Amused Slinky

more quips...

2008-05-19T18:21:00.003-06:00

I took Jake, Will and Kayla to Denver on Friday. Jake had a date with my sister, Carin, to go to the Rockies game and we decided to make a day of it and take the kids to the Denver Aquarium as well. Here I am with the kids.
And here are some fun pictures...

It's hard to take pictures at the aquarium, fish tend to move a lot. But I got a few of the non-moving attractions

Kayla liked the fish but was a bit freaked out at some of the tanks, so she wanted to be held most of the time.

Jake and Will were having fun.

On Saturday morning (yes, we kept the kids overnight!), I'm helping Kayla pack her bag. I tell her she needs to pick up both of her dirty socks. She picks up one and says, "I can't find the other one." The other one is two feet away from her in the middle of the floor. So I say, "use your eyes, Bear!" She looks around and finds the sock. A few minutes later, we are downstairs and she says, "There's a spider in Miss Carin's house." I was busy cleaning off the table so I asked her where the spider was. Her response? "Use your eyes." What a stinker!

Then, on the drive home, Will asks if we can listen to some "school" music. I told him I didn't have any. He says, "I mean the old school, like we listened to on the way to Carin's!" Yeah, I'm not telling these kids anything ever again!

tweaking...

2008-05-13T22:11:00.001-06:00

I've come to the conclusion that limiting carbs is what is making me tired. And I'm tired of being so tired. If things go as I hope they do, I will not have the luxury of napping 3 times a week. So I'm introducing a few more carbs.

The good news? I've broken the soda habit. I have to still manage it (as with any addiction), but I can go days without it if need be. So that was one plus. (And no, I'm not in caffeine withdrawal, I've had lots of that in my tea!)

the real danger...

2008-05-01T11:17:00.001-06:00

My dad sent this to me and it was too good not to post. I am a member of the NRA and I am fully in support of private gun ownership. And while I know that doctors do a world of good, this puts things in perspective (something most anti-gun groups are seriously lacking!).

Doctors
(A) The number of physicians in the U.S. is 700,000.
(B) The number of accidental deaths caused by physicians per year is 120,000.
(C) The number of accidental deaths per physician is 0.171.
-- Statistics courtesy of U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Guns
(A) The number of gun owners in the U.S. is 80,000,000. (Yes, that's 80 million.)
(B) The number of accidental gun deaths per year, all age groups, is 1,500.
(C) The number of accidental deaths per gun owner is .0000188.
-- Statistics courtesy of FBI

SO, statistically, doctors are approximately 9,000 times more dangerous than gun owners.
Remember, 'Guns don't kill people, doctors do.'

FACT: NOT EVERYONE HAS A GUN, BUT ALMOST EVERYONE HAS AT LEAST ONE DOCTOR.

Please alert your friends to this alarming threat! We must ban doctors before this gets completely out of hand! Out of concern for the public at large, I withheld the statistics on lawyers for fear the shock would cause people to panic and seek medical attention.

I just ate...

2008-04-24T16:57:00.002-06:00

the most delicious chicken salad sandwich ever! The bread was soft and perfect, the chicken just the right texture, and the combination of grapes, celery and bell pepper (all in a light glaze of mayo) blended like heaven.

I might have to have another!

quips and such...

2008-04-16T22:29:00.002-06:00

I don't have kids. At the rate I'm going, I might not every have kids of my own. And I have to admit, I get a bit jealous when you all post the cute things your kids say. But I'm around kids all the time and I have ones that I'm very close to. Like Jake, Will and Kayla. As their mother says, "Sara would be their godmother if we were Catholic." We aren't Catholic, but I love those kids as much as I possibly can.

Lately, I've heard some fun things from the kids. Here are two highlights!

Kayla: (we were at church on Sunday, the day after my 30th birthday) "You don't look 30." I waited for the punchline, but she was just making an observation (one for which I'm grateful for!)

Mayce Jo: (Mayce is one of the girls in my nursery class on Tuesdays and Sundays, she will be 2 in June. She often talks to her mom about me. This is what she said a week or so ago as they drove to church for Tuesday morning!) "Mayce no church. Mayce no Sara. Mayce no bubbles." At this point, her mother is getting a bit concerned since Mayce loves to come see me! After a moment pause, Mayce added, "Mayce funny!"

I'm not sure if we should be concerned that Mayce Jo isn't two yet and is already using lies as a humor device, but it was cute!

(don't tell...)

2008-04-12T00:43:00.002-06:00

...but today is my 30th birthday!!

not missing a beat...

2008-03-27T21:23:00.002-06:00

Thursday is my day to cover the reception desk at church, a job I rather enjoy. This week, things were very quiet. The phone didn't ring until 9:30 or so. I answered and gave my little into. A fake-drawl says, "I was wondering if you could connect me with that tall, handsome pastor you have there." By the time she says "tall" I know this is our other receptionist, Leslie. Her husband is one of our pastors.

Without missing a beat, I replied, "I'd be happy to help you, but we have so many pastors that fit that description, I'm not sure which one to connect you with."

She bust up... what a nice way to start our morning!

talk about left field...

2008-02-27T14:49:00.002-07:00

We had our monthly staff lunch for church today, an event I particularly enjoy because it is the one time a month I get to see some of the other staff. Last month, we filled out a survey about worship services (in which I was brutally honest, as usual) and had some talk time with our new pastor.

So this time, we have to take a "test" about how evangelical we are (it was a spoof). I didn't like the answers because they didn't fit. I don't know what it is about multiple choice but they never have the right answer. Since these answers were so far off, I wrote in my own. When it came to scoring time, I judged that every "d" answer (my write-ins) had to follow the scale- so I'm either super Evangelical or negative evangelical- in one case, I'm pompous in the other, I'm way heathen (more than unsaved, if that is even possible!). For some reason, this didn't surprize my fellow staff members (insert ninja smilie here!).

I guess it comes down to the fact that I'm a radical. I don't fit in a box, I don't fit people's ideas of what a Christian is. But I'm okay with that. I am just who God made me to be, and how much better can you get than that? (Not to say I can't be better, but I'm on the right track.)

And speaking of left field, baseball season starts soon. That only means (for me) that it is time of sitting on bleachers again to watch Jake. Can't wait!

reading my way through '08...

2008-02-15T21:35:00.002-07:00

I did it in 2007 so I'm doing it again in 2008, only the goal is higher. I'm reading 100 books this year. And to complicate matters, children's books like the Narnia series don't count. Who made this silly rule? I did...

I invited the teens on CleanPlace to join me in this challenge, and to make sure they were reading quality material, the rule is no children's lit. The teens are trying their best to skirt this rule. We offered them Narnia, but only if they read all seven and count it as one. Now they want everything. But no, we are putting our feet down (we being Dianna, Sarah and I), no children's lit.

This means I have to not only read 25 more books than last year but I also have to read "harder" books as well. Not that I read simple books last year, but I did read a few short ones and a few children's (like Narnia, Island of the Blue Dolphins and Bridge to Terebithia).

Why do I do this to myself??

another tweak...

2008-02-10T19:59:00.000-07:00

So, my friend Dianna found a typo in my backdrop- and she was so sweet to not only fix it but to also do some tweaking. I'm so happy with the new look, I think it fits perfectly!

Not much has gone on in my world as of late. The mall is slow, but we did move the entire store in three days. Yes, we had to move to a temp location because we are getting a remodel. Moving that much product in three days took some planning, but our manager did well. And we got everything set up and looking spiffy in no time.

I recently wrote a sestina. Never heard of a sestina? Well, it is this old poetry form in which you must end each of six lines in six stanas with the same six words in different orders. Confused? No problem. Just read this and you will get the point...

Thoughts on Life

Within the turquoise swells of the ocean
lies the entrance- grasp the doorknob!
Enter- set your tea cup on a saucer
and listen to the resounding echoes,
slippery as a banana
being described by Hemingway.

Grumpy old Hemingway—
caught in the undulation of the ocean,
stuck at sea without a banana
to eat or even the security of a doorknob
to grasp—left only with the echoes
of that cup hitting the saucer.

Notice the violet rim around the edge of the saucer.
It escapes the descriptive powers of Hemingway
as it clinks empty tones that resist echoes
and sink into the restful depths of the ocean.
Cold fingers release the doorknob
and Death sits close by, eating a banana.

The moon also rises in the pale sky like a shimmering banana.
Light spills out and tumbles into the Earth’s waiting saucer.
Humanity ignores the warning signs and avoids the doorknob.
They turn to poets for answers, but only Hemingway
can ferry them across the ocean
and quiet the ever-sounding echoes.

Who’s tumbling cup set off the echoes
that ring so close? The answer slips on the peel of the banana
and follows streams back to the ocean.
All the waters pool into the saucer
that holds the tea cup set down by Hemingway
as he reaches instead for the doorknob.

Before we can enter the future we must turn the doorknob
and listen closely to the echoes
of old souls who read Hemingway
as they throw down the empty yellow shell of the banana
and return the now-washed, purple-edged saucer
to the shelf on the bottom of the ocean.

Let go of the doorknob and savor first the banana—
Make a sound that echoes in the rings of your saucer—
Recite Hemingway while crossing life’s ocean.

(c) SDD 1/31/08

laughing and cringing...

2008-01-24T00:17:00.000-07:00

The other day, I went through the drive-through at Taco Bell. After a long wait, I make it to the menu board to order. A young man's voice drifts over the intercom and welcomes me, then he says, "Will that be for here or to go today?". I could hear the laughter in his voice so I knew he was messing with me. I replied with, "To go would be helpful, don't you think?". He laughed and agreed with me. It was a nice little exchange. Then I waited to make it to the first window.

When I got there, another young man opens the window and starts to hand me my drink. Only problem is, he is almost palming the top of the cup where he has laid the straw across it. I can't grab the cup and the straw because his hand is in the way. He starts to let go of the cup before I've taken it. I hurry to keep the cup from falling, but I can't get the straw, which falls to the ground. So I politely ask for another straw. He grumbles something, snatches my money from my hand and slams the window closed. He takes his own sweet time to get my change, fills a water cup, grabs another straw which he lays across the cup in the same manner as before then opens the window and shoves the cup of water at me. I shake my head and say, "I only need a straw," and try to take the straw. He gets mad at me. "What?" is his gruff reply. "A straw," I said, again reaching for the straw. Finally, I grasp it and pull it out. He then proceeds to crumple my receipt before dropping my change (thankfully I got my hand up there in time to catch that) and then throws, yes, throws a bag of sauce and napkins at me before barking, "next window." I pulled forward quickly, ready to be away.

At the next window, the nice young man who took my order was waiting with my food. I was so mad I could hardly keep from crying (I cry when I'm mad...). I asked him to please tell his manager that the worker at the first window was being excessively rude and had thrown stuff at me. He was very apologetic and told me he would take care of it.

So I drove away thinking if the first young man had handled everything it would have been a very positive experience- but that the rude worker had totally ruined my lunch. And yes, it gave me indigestion...

All that to say I try to give the first sort of customer service, not the second. But there are times... I had a lady complain this week because I rung her item at the wrong price. She said it was on the 50% off table and it rang at $4. I explained that the item was on sale for $4, it wasn't on the 50% off table and that since the original price was $10.50, she had already gotten a better deal than 50% off. She kept arguing that I charged her wrong and then walked out in a huff. I was going to tell her I would be happy to re-ring it at 50% off and she could pay the additional $1.25, but she left too quickly. Some people!

pants on fire...

2008-01-10T00:05:00.000-07:00

I had two customers lie to me today. Right to my face. Then, they got made when the lie did not produce the expected reply (translate- I didn't give them the product for the "reduced" price). I've seen a lot of that going on during our big sale and I find it sad and rather pathetic. Honestly, half the store is being given away as it is, let's not haggle over pennies.

What is it about human nature that makes us so greedy and rude? A friend of mine is writing a computer program that has the computer ask questions of the user and then processes that info to ask more questions. He was trying to classify human behavior like greed and rudeness and decided the best way to classify those people would be in a category of jerks. I agree. And I'm okay with his program taking over the world and outlawing all jerks. (Actually, the program is going to take over the world and I get to be Princess of the Alps, the Andes, part of the Rockies, Antarctica and some tropical island, and I'm okay with that).

It is too late to think hard about this, but I am glad I can laugh about those customers (I did so with my boss, after I checked the shelves and verified the customers were lying, after they had gone of course). And I suppose they will someday get what is coming to them... or at least I hope, maybe.

a new look...

2007-12-28T11:13:00.001-07:00

Yes, I have a new look. And yes, I'll be posting here more often. Check back soon!

2007-11-27T23:28:00.001-07:00

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2007-08-17T13:55:00.000-06:00

2007-08-17T13:53:00.000-06:00

another try...

2007-08-17T13:40:00.001-06:00

la la la

up on the mountain...

2007-08-17T13:15:00.000-06:00

I'm trying to get blogger to behave and let me use a new photo for my profile... that is why so many pics of me are here :)

2007-07-04T11:46:00.000-06:00

2007-05-14T22:09:00.000-06:00

2007-05-14T22:03:00.001-06:00

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Sojourn with Me

2006-11-03T14:19:00.000-07:00

Hi there. You may have noticed I'm not posting regularly. That's because I am joining the Peace Corps and will shortly be relocating to Namibia, Africa. During that time, I won't be posting here at the slinky. Please visit me here to catch up on what I'm doing!

Photos from Muller

2006-10-14T21:00:00.000-06:00

Nathan and I went to Muller a few weeks ago and Nathan took these photos. I like them, which is rare.

this is me

2006-09-25T20:12:00.000-06:00

Because I need to host my photo somewhere, here I am :)

a brief history

2006-09-17T19:59:00.000-06:00

Hi.

Did you miss me?

Hope so.

Life has been rather hectic this last month or so. It's been a blur of paperwork, activity, running from one place to another, taking a vacation, losing a beloved pet, near heart attacks caused by Peace Corps medical office and finally, a bit of relief.

I spent the first three weeks of August tutoring 3-4 times per week and running from one medical appointment to another. I finally got all medical paperwork sent off on the 22nd, just in time for my vacation the following week. After a great week of fishing and relaxing in my hammock, it was back for more paperwork for PC medical and tutoring. I also had to make the most difficult decision of my life on Monday, September 4. My kitty, Watson, wasn't doing so well and I decided it was time to put him down. I never want to make that decision again. There is nothing worse than feeling like you've killed your most faithful friend. There will be a Watson shaped hole in my heart forever.

To heap more on my already overflowing plate, the PC called on Monday, the 11th, leaving a message to call them. I called, 12 times over the next 4 days, until I finally reached the nurse on Friday. They needed a statement from me saying that the tumor I had removed in 1991 was non-cancerous since my dr's office failed to put that in the report. Thankfully a fax would suffice and I got it off right away. I now have medical clearance for PC service!!

So this week, I'm just waiting for my invite. As soon as I know where I'm going, I'll let you know. Pray it comes quickly, both to help me get things done and just for sanity. There is so much I can't do until I have that letter in hand. Like most of the rest of my life :) (or at least the next two and a half years of it!).

Well, that's me. Leave a comment and let me know what you've been doing lately.

the whirlwind of my life

2006-08-02T22:43:00.000-06:00

At last, a free moment. A chance to post. Breath. Okay.

So, you all caught the part about me being nominated for Peace Corps service, right? Good. Glad to know you are reading. So I find out the following day that I need 40 more tutoring hours to fully qualify for the November position. I'm thinking "Yeah, no problem, I'll just get that pounded out in the next month despite the fact I have no one to tutor and I know the library program isn't worth my spit and so on, no problem at all." Thankfully, I have a strict "no panic" rule that I live by. It's been a lifesaver on more than one occasion.

So I said a little prayer that went something like, "Okay God, you got me into this, you shoved and I went scampering through this door. I'm willing to do the work but I need some divine help on getting someone to tutor." That was on a Friday.

By Monday morning, I had a student who not only wanted a tutor, but wants to meet several times per week! I'll have the hours done before I go on vacation at the end of August. I'm still pretty blown away by the whole thing and how it's working out. I guess when God is ready to move, He doesn't putz around!

I adore my student, Johana. She is the wife of a co-worker and they moved here from Guatemala just over 2 years ago. Her English is not bad at all, she just doesn't have the confidence to do things like shop on her own, or banking or talking to the doctors about her young daughter. And cooking. So I'm helping her with vocab and practicing conversation. Tonight, we met at her house because her husband is out of town and she couldn't find a baby-sitter. She knew we were going to be working on veggies, so she made stir-fry. Sadly, I had dinner before I went (not knowing she would be cooking), but I managed to eat some anyway. To not eat would have been rude.

So that's what I've been up to these days. It's been a great adventure. As soon as I get an invitation I'll create another blog just for updating while I'm away! Keep your eyes open.

priceless

2006-07-19T22:45:00.000-06:00

I felt like a credit card commercial today.

New shirt for interview: $17.50
Gas of tank to drive to interview: $20.00
Parking: $6
Getting nominated for Peace Corps service: priceless

Yep, that's pretty much how I feel today :)

If all goes well with the medical clearance, I'll be leaving for Africa in November. Breath now, yes, I did say November!!!!!!!

Priceless, really.

baby steps

2006-07-18T22:41:00.000-06:00

It's finally here (well, almost). I have an interview for Peace Corps tomorrow. 11 in the morning. I can't wait. It makes it seem so much more real to be getting official mail and phone calls from them now.

Say a little prayer for me. I'll let you know how it goes.

I am Rain

2006-07-04T15:28:00.000-06:00

You Are Rain

You can be warm and sexy. Or cold and unwelcoming. Either way, you slowly bring out the beauty around you.

You are best known for: your touch

Your dominant state: changing

What Type of Weather Are You?

What Kind of Writer Should I Be?

2006-07-04T15:25:00.000-06:00

I thought this was kinda fun, given I'm already a writer :)

You Should Be a Film Writer

You don't just create compelling stories, you see them as clearly as a movie in your mind.
You have a knack for details and dialogue. You can really make a character come to life.
Chances are, you enjoy creating all types of stories. The joy is in the storytelling.And nothing would please you more than millions of people seeing your story on the big screen!

What Type of Writer Should You Be?

I am Midnight

2006-07-04T15:23:00.000-06:00

You Are Midnight

You are more than a little eccentric, and you're apt to keep very unusual habits.
Whether you're a nightowl, living in a commune, or taking a vow of silence - you like to experiment with your lifestyle.
Expressing your individuality is important to you, and you often lie awake in bed thinking about the world and your place in it.You enjoy staying home, but that doesn't mean you're a hermit. You also appreciate quality time with family and close friends.

What Time Of Day Are You?

end of the rope

2006-06-26T21:10:00.000-06:00

I did it.

I turned in my application last week for Peace Corps!! Now it's time to wait, but at least the ball is going and is in the other court now. It's a great feeling.

My eye quit twitching. I'm pretty sure it's related to stress. Go figure. I mean, what sort of stress do I have? Just working two jobs (one in customer service, the other herding pastors, which is like herding cats!), and trying to do all my other live things like laundry and dishes and then this whole crazy "lifestyle" eating plan I'm doing. Don't get me wrong, I'm loving the work at church and I'm getting into shape, so I can't complain, but I am stressed. I'm trying a new product to see if it will help.

Today, I trained a new gal on our team. I don't think I like being a trainer. She has to write 50 perfect emails before I can release her and she got one today, barely. She's not bad, and has more potential than I first would have thought, but it's going to be a long week at this rate.

Alright, that's the news for now. I'm off to search for songs about healing for next weeks service :)

HI Emily!!!!!!!!

where have all the flowers gone?

2006-06-18T21:49:00.000-06:00

Unplug your ears, I have no intention of breaking into song.

Thank you.

I'm just wondering where the time has gone. It's already past mid-June. I'm running around like a headless chicken, banging into every little thing. One of these days I'll drop dead just to get some rest. Until then, carry on.

I set June 30 as my date to turn in my Peace Corps application. It's mostly done, I just need to fill in a few phone numbers and names. Tonight I pounded out my first attempt for the essays. I really liked my first one, then I realized it didn't really answer the question. The English major in me balked and made me rewrite it. The second one is good, I can't complain, but it will always be second in my mind. Then, after two attempts at the first question, I tackled the second. It's too long, but that's what I have friends for. I helped Dara whittle hers down, I know she'll help me. And I have two of my needed three references on board!!

My insides are all a jumble. There is relief that I'm finally getting my application turned in, trepidation that I could actually be called up for service before the end of the year (no Christmas at home!) and excitement that this is really happening! God has opened so many doors and provided for this in every way that it's hard not to get a bit giddy about the whole thing.

Ready, change subjects.

This morning, during church, I got a twitch in my left eye. It's been going almost non-stop all day. The only time it stopped is when I took a few minutes to relax outside while talking to Dara, and when I actually came down to write my essays. It didn't even cut out when I took a nap today. It's annoying more than anything, hope it leaves soon.

Alrighty then, that's about all I have for you today. Happy day!

midnight dreary

2006-06-02T12:40:00.000-06:00

I didn't sleep well last night. This is not a new occurrence, I don't sleep well often, but last night was bad.

For the first half of the night, I felt like I was going to hurl the contents of my tummy. For the second, I was too hot or too cold or just couldn't get comfey.

Part of the problem, I'm sure, is that I have a sticky situation that I have to respond to. I hate these. It's the one aspect of leadership that I dread. Sure, it is easy to lead when things are flowing along and everyone loves you. It's when you have to point out short comings and faults and explain them that it stinks.

I should have gotten up last night and just replied to the problem email, but that would have been bad, so I'm glad I didn't. I'm sure I would have said something without thinking and said it all badly. Still, it would have been nice to sleep.

Oh well. Hope your night was better than mine.

smack

2006-05-23T21:46:00.000-06:00

There is rarely a day when I don't have the urge to smack someone.

Now, before you rush into a tizzy about violent tendencies, read on.

I work with people, lots of people. I work in customer service, for a lack of better term. And I have learned that while people as individuals can be great, as a large collective, humanity isn't doing so great. I know that we can do great, wonderful things. Like rushing to give blood after 9/11, and helping hurricane victims and sending aid to other countries when needed. We have our high points. But I maintain that for every high is an equal low. Due to the nature of my job, I get to deal with more of the lows than the highs.

Recently, we've been cleaning house on our correspondents. These are people that have agreed to write a child when the sponsor is unable or unwilling to do so.

You would think that these people would be a wonderful group of people, giving of their time to write to a child half way across the world. We do have some wonderful correspondents. But then, we have some that are just terrible. We are now sorting through the good and bad. Of course, I only get to see the bad ones that require action.

Today, one guy on my list hadn't written to his child in the 5+ years he had been the correspondent! Five years! The little girl is 10. Imagine, she's had a sponsor (kids don't know the difference between correspondents and sponsors) for half her life and she's never heard a word from him. If the guy had been standing at my cube I would have decked him.

Twice.

Since he hadn't written in the last year I thankfully didn't have to contact him. Rather, I marched myself over to the desk where correspondents are assigned and unassigned. I asked the gal to pretty please right away cancel the bad man and give the child to me. I just couldn't stand the thought of putting her on a waiting list (we have close to 100 kids now who need new correspondents because we are purging the bad ones) and not know if she would get a good writer or not.

Do I have the time and energy to take on a new child? I already have my Karen and two correspondent kids (Lonali and Habiba, both in Africa) and I write to dad's six kids.

I asked myself if I was crazy.

Then I looked at little Lesly's photo. There stood a beautiful little girl who seemed older than her 10 years. A shy smile, sparkling eyes and confidence despite her situation. That's when I remembered that it doesn't matter if I have time- I can make it. It takes maybe 10 minutes to write a letter. Even writing once a month, that's not much of anything. But to Lesly, it could mean the world.

I wrote my first letter to her and turned it in before leaving work. She got a letter that told her how excited I am to get to know her and that we both like to read. It tells her that Jesus loves her very much and made her special. It tells her that I am praying for her.

Yes, she is worth it and I'm crazy. Crazy about making a difference. It's an incredible feeling to know that somewhere, on the other side of the globe, there is a person who has a changed life because of something I did. I've seen it with my Sandra... that little shy girl who I sponsored for 7 years. Today she is a confident young woman who knows she is worth something. Her community is the better for it, her country, the world. All because someone took the time to say, "You are important, you are worth something and I love you."

Okay, I feel better now. I just needed to get that out. There's my verbal smack to people who don't realize that they are destroying the hope of a child. That they are disobeying their call to care for the poor and needy, widows and orphans. If you aren't up to the call, don't answer. Or at least make an effort.

Deep breath now.

If there are any of you out there who want to make a difference, who have 10 minutes a month to change the world for a child, please let me know. Like I said, we have kids waiting. Lots of kids waiting. Post a comment with your email address (if I don't have it already) and say "Yes" to making an impact in a child's life today.

End infomercial here.

Thanks!

busy little slinky

2006-05-16T21:36:00.000-06:00

So, you've finally noticed that I'm not posting so often :)

There is a great reason for that. You see, since February, I've been working a second job. It's a long story and one that I can't fairly share in full detail, so I'll just say that a position opened up expectedly at church and I was asked to step in. So, since the first weekend of February, I've been spending 15-20 hours working for church and still holding down my regular 40 hour week at Compassion. I am starting to feel like I need a weekend, but I'm not sure when I'll find someone to train as the new me (ie, I used to fill in one weekend a month, now I need a fill-in person!).

While this may sound crazy, working around 60 hours in a week, it's a true blessing, even an answer to prayer. You see, for months, I've been trying to pay off some debt, but it just never seemed to get any smaller. I'd been praying about it and I mentioned often to God that I am more than willing to follow his calling to the Peace Corp, yet I needed some help in getting my debt covered in order to do that. I kept waiting (while faithfully putting as much as possible towards paying it off) for an answer. Well, he answered big time. With this second job, I should be able to be debt free by August!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! (happy dance, big happy dance)

So, I want to post more often, and I'll try my best to do so, but give me a little grace. When it comes down to sleeping or posting, sleep is winning out these days!

Other news... I'm painting a bathroom (seems like I can't go more than a few months without painting something, I think that's an illness!). I can't for the life of me think of anything else really exciting that is going on. Wait, I went out for Thai food last week, that was fun. I think I like Indian food better, but Thai was yummy as well.

Okay, I have to go peel wallpaper off the wall now, joy of joys. Have a good evening!

what I learned today

2006-04-19T14:02:00.000-06:00

When eating yummy chicken salad, one should not move to eating the caramel pudding before finishing the chicken salad. Now my salad tastes bland and uneventful but I need to eat it.

How sad for me.

But there is more caramel pudding for when I'm done!

talking to the nuts

2006-04-06T21:11:00.000-06:00

Hello. Miss me? I know you did.

I'm here, just been a bit busy lately. Since early February I've been working two jobs, one full-time and one part-time. I haven't had a real weekend since then, but that's okay. Just means I have to squash all my "weekend" activities into the weeknights. Last week, there wasn't a single night that I got to come straight home and relax.

Anyway, I'm still here, still having lots of post ideas come and go before I get a chance to capture them. I have a few that I want to post for my other site (Questions For God) and a thought of doing some book reviews here, but for tonight, I'm just going to chat a while.

I got a pedicure this week, the second one I've ever gotten. It was nice and my feet look (and feel) great. If you've never gotten one, I encourage you to splurge at least once. You won't regret it. There is something to be said for pampering yourself from time to time. I've found if you don't, you'll go crazy sooner rather than latter. Granted, some of us are crazy already. Maybe what I think of as going crazy is really going sane. There's a topic for deep thought!

I finished reading a new book last night (well, new to me, published a while ago). It was one of those books written by an "east" Indian (as opposed to a "west" Indian, if you don't know the difference, comment and I'll explain). Or maybe she was British, or of mixed decent, it was hard to tell, but the photo made it look like she was Indian. Very good little story, can't remember the spelling of the title just now but I'll put it in a later post. I felt good about finishing it because I started it in late January and then got busy (with the afore mentioned second job) and just haven't had time to read.

Yesterday at work I got to call a real nutcase. It was intriguing to talk to someone so convinced that her views were God's views. There were several points in the "conversation" (and I quote that only because I'm not sure there was any true conversing going on) that I almost had to hit my mute button because I feared I would laugh outloud! It's going to be the topic for my other blog, so I won't say much here, but it was an experience! It reminded me to be firm and secure in my beliefs but to always turn back to God, no one else, when in doubt.

Okay, it's getting late and I have to clean the kitchen, put out the trash and take care of the litter box (oh the joy joy joy). Hope you have a great weekend.

in those dark days

2006-03-19T16:14:00.000-07:00

Welcome to my first blogging for books attempt. I’ve wanted to do this for a while but due to technical difficulties (mostly, I could never find the site or get the email to actually know the topic, but I digress). This month the topic is the military.

As I thought of what, exactly, I wanted to write about, many ideas came to mind. Yes, I live in a military town. We have the Air Force Academy, Fort Carson, Shriever and Peterson. And yes, I see military all the time. I have friends and relatives in the military or retired from the military. I’m rather patriotic and I admire deeply those who serve. I even cry every Christmas when they air the Toys for Tots commercials where the kid asks the marine if he is Santa and the marine silently takes the child’s wish list. Yeah, tear jerker that one is!

Yet as I pondered what to write about, only one thing kept popping back with any real sticking power. My grandfather.

My grandfather served in the Navy in World War II. I didn’t know this until long after he had passed away. For years, I thought of my grandfather (who died when I was 14) as a grumpy old man who didn’t like his grandkids. See, he was getting older, he had health issues and every time we were around him, he insisted on no noise and no fun.

Then recently, as I flipped through so old photos, I saw my grandpa feeding squirrels and I remembered he used to do that with Vicky and I. Then I remembered that he made wind chimes and let me wear his big boots when I was just a little girl (they came up to my hips). Then I learned he was in the Navy and served during the war.

I think sometimes about what sort of sailor my grandfather was. I wonder what sort of combat he saw, if he lost friends. These are things I won’t get to know because my grandfather, like most WWII vets, has passed on.

I think of my grandma, waiting at home to marry her sweetheart. They married in 1945. I have the quilt my great-grandmother made as a wedding gift. Did my grandma find the same man come home that had left her? Probably not. I don’t think any person who serves in war comes home the same. It’s an experience that changes, that imprints on you. I’ve seen enough stories about war to know that.

I’m proud to know my grandpa served our country, I’m proud to know he did his part to secure our way of life. It has helped me change my view of my grandpa, to see him as the whole person he was, and not just a cranky old man who didn’t like kids. I hope that the scars weren’t too deep and that he had enough love in his life to ease any painful memories.

I’m proud of my grandpa, proud of all the boys who went to war in those dark days. I’m proud of all the men and women who serve today, fighting for freedom and liberty. I’m reminded that every person in our military, no matter their reason for being there, is there to do a job and they do it well. And thousands around the world owe a debt of gratitude to our fine boys (and now girls, too).

I salute my grandpa, and all those who serve. Thank you.

floating through the air

2006-03-18T12:04:00.000-07:00

I had several post topics come to me this week. Wonderful, witty and reflective types.

And can I remember a single one this morning? NO.

Oh well.

In lieu of that, I give you some random reflections on life.

* I have a co-worker who reminds me of a grown, white Urcle (the nerd kid, remember). While the voice isn't quite so bad, his mannerism and dress style are. He also is very nervous. Three times this week I ended up walking behind him in the hall, and each time he stopped and turned round to see who was behind him. It cracks me up.

* I am still waiting on my order from bareMinerals. I sent the check in February, they cashed it on Feb 21, and I still have no makeup. I think this will be my last order from them. They are slow and unfocused when it comes to shipping out orders, but quick to take your money. I found a webshop that has mineral makeup for much less. I'll try them out soon (I already bought brushes from her at less than 1/2 the price BM sells them, and it's the same exact brush!). Plus the webshop has a slightly better color selection, they have a light olive. Turns out I have light olive skin. We don't know where I get it from, but I have it none the less.

* Dad doesn't have a vehicle that works, so he is driving mine. And since gas shot up 20 cents overnight, that's a problem. Hope he can help refill my tank!

* Last night I went to Old C's with some gals from work. I've never been much for socializing with my co-workers, but there are a few that I actually like. It was fun. I also had a Midori Sour, which I love but rarely indulge in. Mostly because Old C's bought my dinner because it was two minutes late (and the manager asked if he could buy it for me, like I was going to say no!). I ate way too much but it was good.

* Vicky has the giggles this morning. I'm so thankful we got her off that drug that was literally drugging her. This is the sister I know and love.

* My cat, Watson, is driving me up a wall. He's lonely and I know the vet would say to get him a friend, but I don't want any more animals. I do very much want some kitty Valium to calm my cat down as I can't stand to be home with him. He meows constantly and it grates on my nerves. I need peace!!!

Okay, that's about it for today. A small glimpse into my world. Don't be frightened!

lost

2006-03-12T21:38:00.000-07:00

I was feeling a bit guilty about not updating recently despite my hectic week. Then I went to do a quick round of visits to blogs I like and found no one has been updating, so I don't feel so bad.

Anywho, my dad finally got moved up to WY and the house is strangely empty. I need to finish up my PC application and submit it soon on top of everything else. And I'm still producing at church for the next few weeks. Looks like the year has no plans to slow down.

Crazy.

Have to keep this short, I need to be in bed by 10 and there is so much to do.

Hope you are all having wonderful, fun filled weeks... post soon!

as requested

2006-03-04T00:58:00.000-07:00

A post, just for all you wonderful readers out there. I've been wanting to post all week, but life got the better of me (and I was sick with a weird digestive ailment for two days on top of everything else). But I'm back, and since I'm still awake, you get something to read.

Update on the care package to Kate, the Peace Corps volunteer in Tanzania. She got it today, everything arrived safe and sound, for which me and my pocketbook are eternally grateful for! Here is an excerpt from her email to me this morning:

I got your package this morning and the first thing I thought when I opened it was, "this girl's sent a care package or two before". You're amazing! The kids will be overjoyed with the pencils, as I will be with the mac and cheese and the girly stuff! You're the best. Thank you so much.

So that made my Friday start off well. It's fun to do nice things for people, especially when you haven't really met (we've only emailed). The whole idea that the more you give the more you get has always seemed a bit selfish to me, I like to think it's just better and more fun to give. I'm a sucker for it! And for the record, the girly stuff was a new bath pouf, two small trial sized body washes, and some serious hair conditioner (since she mentioned in one letter home that her hair was a wreck and wouldn't behave). So if you are ever working in a developing nation or just really far from home, let me know, I'd love to send you a care package!

Okay, other than that, I've been keeping busy at work and we are waiting on the diagnosis for Vicky (which comes Monday). I'll post here about that to fill in everyone Monday if there is anything to fill in.

Okay, it's after 1 am and I should be in bed about now (really, I should have been in bed hours ago, but I had stuff to do for church and once started, it is simpler to finish no matter how late). Dad is already snoring away. Speaking of him, he is finally moving!!! The movers come Tuesday, which means I have more stuff to do around here. Unless, of course, I want all my stuff to disappear to WY!

Night now.

so nice

2006-02-15T21:49:00.000-07:00

I did a good deed today (which helped me out greatly since my boss decided tonight that I was being a snob, this was my redeeming grace).

When Kate, the gal who is in the Peace Corps in Tanzania, emailed to say the kids love pencils, please send some if you get the urge to do so, I did. I had tried to get her a little something put together at Christmas but failed, so I had two or three other things to send including a few boxes of Mac & Cheese, a bottle of serious hair conditioner and some bottles of body wash, along with a pouf and a Christmas stocking. So this weekend, I go out and buy 5 boxes of pencils for a $1 each and added them to the box.

I finally got around to mailing it this morning.

Turns out mail to Tanzania is NOT cheap.

Twenty-seven dollars not cheap. Almost twenty-eight.

I almost passed out.

But then I remembered the way a child lights up when they get a gift. I saw the faces of the beautiful Tanzanian children that Kate sends and I knew it was worth every red cent to send them the pencils (and Kate the other goodies). I hope they make it there safely.

So, I did my good deed today. Did you??

a love affair

2006-02-14T21:54:00.000-07:00

In a rare obeisance to Valentine's Day, I give you this little ditty about my longest affair.

And what, you ask, has captured my heart so? *She laughs as she thinks that you know her oh so little* One word: books.

Yes, those dainty little delightful delicacies of paper and ink. Books. I love them. The way they feel in your hands, the way they smell, the way they stand by quietly and let you laugh and cry at the events they contain. A book is always there for you, waiting, ready to to take you on an adventure. They are just truly loveable.

The first book I remember falling for was The Pokey Little Puppy. It's a Little Golden Book and it was one of the first that I read. I loved that story about the little puppy who went on great adventures and was sad when he went without dessert (but I now realize that he was disobedient and deserved to face the consequences for his actions). I read that book over and over and over. I think it is the reason I had a fascination with getting a dog that only recently evaporated.

Since then it's been one book after another. I spent more time in the elementary school library then I did in the classroom. I read every Nancy Drew mystery they had (and found a few they didn't at garage sales), I read my copy of Little Women ragged. I devoured every book I could get my hands on (including some of the romances my mother had that I probably should not have read, but hey, I was young and none of it made sense at the time).

I discovered the joy of buying and owning books. There was (and still is) something about buying a book that takes my breath away. It's a treasure chest and you don't know what you'll find when you break open the cover, but you know it's going to be something amazing. I remember the days in school when the Scholastic book club flyer came out. I'd pour over it on the way home and tell my mom which ones I wanted. I didn't always get them all, but I usually could swing a few (and they were cheap, wish I could go back and buy more!).

As I mentioned, I read a few books ragged. Little Women, James and the Giant Peach, just to name two. I re-read books. No one every told me I couldn't. I grew up thinking everyone who was anyone (i.e. anyone who is anyone was a reader) re-read books. Why read it in the first place if you weren't going to keep reading it over and over? What a waste of paper to only read it once. It never crossed my mind that people only read books once. Sure, there are a few I've never gone back to, but so many more that I do revisit. They are old friends. I never knew why I went back, per se, but I did.

Then not so long ago I learned that there are people out there who read, they read a lot, but they don't ever re-read a book. Honestly, when I heard this, I about had a full out stroke. The horror! To leave a book after one reading it like leaving the table after the first course of a meal. You may think you are satisfied but you have no idea what you are missing in the following courses.

When I tried to reason with the person who revealed this disturbing fact to me, she thought I was the crazy one to re-read a book. Her thought was, "I've read it, it won't change, why waste time reading it again." I nearly died on the spot. So here is what I told her.

While the words on the page may not change (indeed, they should not), you are not the same person from today to tomorrow from yesterday and therefore you can never read the book the exact same way you did before. And books are more than a stroll through the park on a sunny afternoon. To get their power, to learn their lessons, you have to spend time with them in the dark, in the wee hours of the morning, in the long winter days and chilly spring afternoons. There is no way to catch every offering a book has on one read. And you'll never learn as much about yourself if you limit the experience.

I've ready most of Jane Austen's books five or six times (at least). Every time, I learn something new about Austen, about her characters and about me. Each time I visit with those dear friends of mine, I have changed, I may understand a character more or less, or see eye to eye with the author in a way I couldn't before, because I had not yet grown tall enough as a human being. The same thing happens with all my favorite books. I believe for a book to be really great, it has to pull you back, make you want to read it again, keep looking and digging to find each precious moment, word, look and secret.

The other gal conceded that I had a good point. I challenged her to recall a book she really enjoyed and try reading it again. We'll see if she takes me up on it.

So, that's my great affair, the deep love I hold. If you want to make my head swim and knock me off my feet, forget the jewels, forget candy and even the flowers. Take me to a bookstore and tell me to pick one. Let me wander the isles, soaking in the wonderfulness. Surprize me with a new selection from an old friend or a new voice. I'll love you forever.

pouring

2006-02-08T20:06:00.000-07:00

You know the old adage... when it rains... well, that's life for the past few days.

Let me explain (pause) no, takes too long, let me sum up.

I get a call Friday from my worship pastor asking if I'm available to step into the role of producer for "a few weeks" while some of the regular staff are "away". I've had a feeling that this course could happen and likely should happen and I'm in full support of everything (yes, I'm being vague but that is because I won't gossip and I can't be more specific without risking the perception of gossip, so I'm trying to watch what I say here) and of course, I agreed to step up because that's what I'm here for. Not a big deal, but enough to take up a significant amount of time for the next month or so.

Then, I remember that I need to go to my sister's staffing (it's a yearly review where everyone involved in Vicky's care gets together to see how things are going). So I arrange to get off early and go to that today.

Then yesterday I get phone messages from both parents, in one day (which never happens) and they both sound grave and just say "call me as soon as you can". So I finally get a in touch with my dad. He tells me that Vicky's host mom took her to the doctor for a check up on a "rash" she's had on her breast for a while that isn't responding to the antibiotics, and that the only other thing the doctors can think of is that given Vicky's situation, age and medical work-up, there is a good chance that this might be breast cancer.

Add this on top of the fact that we are missing two key people from staff at church due to unresolved issues in their lives, that the wife of another key figure is mysteriously ill and the doctors can't find a diagnosis, and now Vicky may be facing serious health challenges, and I see red flags everywhere. The Evil One is on the warpath.

I'm just wondering if he didn't learn his lesson well enough the last time... he can't win. We are on God's side and that about says it all. So your prayers for everything are appreciated, especially prayers for restoration and health. And somebody send me an umbrella and galoshes if you don't mind.

grasping cotton candy

2006-01-30T20:42:00.000-07:00

So, I didn't get a part in the play. I'm half disappointed, half relieved. It means that I may get some sleep this spring (I'm still deprived from the last show) and that I should have time to work on my novel and other pursuits that have been put on hold for a while. But it means I won't be part of that group that is doing the play. I'll miss out on the friendship and bonding, which was part of why I even tried out. Oh well, c'est la vive.

I'm toying with the idea of telling you all about a dream I had week or so ago... can't decide if telling it outloud will make it less wonderful or more so. Right now, I'm thinking some of my readers will understand and take it for what it could be and some will laugh and make it a silly little dream. I don't want it to be a silly little dream so I may keep it under wraps a bit longer.

I got a tape back last week, a tape that had been "missing" for over two years. I had loaned it to a friend who moved and left it with a roommate. Turns out her former roommate and I are both terrible at making contact and I had given it up as lost. A sad thing because it had a very special message on it. But lo and behold, I got an email out of the blue last week saying she found it and wanted to get it back to me. I finally got to listen to it again last night. Made me cry. I had forgotten so much of the message, and even more of it was clear this time (or maybe, less was clear, but they were new parts that had been foggy before, can't tell just yet). I needed to hear it now, I needed it just this week and here it was. Thanks to all who had a part in brining that tape back to me.

I think it's time to go read a book... about a dreamer. I started The Alchemist this weekend and so far it is great. Can't wait to finish it. I have a feeling it is the right book at the right time as well. Anything to pass the waiting hour.

Hope your week is off to a great start. I did my taxes tonight and though I'm not getting as much back as I had hoped, it's still a chunk of money that can help pay for my sponsorships so when I go to PC they are taken care of. Actually, Sandra will be graduating sometime soon so I only have to worry about Karen. Since she's only 5 she had better be around for years to come! I'm not ready for Sandra to go but I know she has all I can give her and more. She has Jesus in her heart and a good head on her shoulders. She's smart, pretty and isn't afraid of life. I love that girl like crazy.

Alright, book time. Go on, curl up with a classic. Tell me about it in the comments...

pins and needles

2006-01-26T21:04:00.000-07:00

Waiting.

I'm not good at it.

It sucks, and I mean big time.

Yet it appears to be the thing I do the most of these days. For example, right now, I'm waiting for a call to find out if I'm in the play or not. I'm also waiting for my toes to warm up, waiting for the time when I can leave for Peace Corps, waiting for that special someone to sweep me off my feet. Waiting, waiting, waiting.

I hate it. I feel like life is out there, happening, and I'm stuck in the far lane of traffic, unable to get to the action. I feel the minutes of my life ticking by, fading into oblivion, into a universe that I can't visit. And they are gone, my minutes are gone. My hands are tied against doing anything but waving at the minutes as they traipse out the door. I feel like I should be doing something, anything, but there are walls everywhere and I'm fresh out of dynamite to bust through them.

Ever feel like that? While it's a horrid feeling, it would be nice to know that others feel it too. I keep trying to make the most of each day but when each day is a copy more or less of the day before, you start to wonder what exactly is the point.

What are you waiting for? What holds you back? These are the questions I'm pondering now. Seems like the only thing useful in the waiting is the thinking, as long as I don't do too much of that. I over analyze, I've been told. I'll chew on things until they are unrecognizable fragments of the thoughts they once were. Too much chewing is bad for the heart so I try to keep it to a limit, but the longer I wait, the more I think and the nasty little cycle starts again.

So, I think I'll go read one of my new books and try to not wait for that call. Why I'm anxious about a call that is going to say "thanks but no thanks" I can't quite figure, but I'm trying not to think about that to much.

Farewell. Good night sweet void, please be kind to my minutes as they fly through you tonight.

yeah, yeah

2006-01-24T17:11:00.000-07:00

Yes, I'm still alive. Yes, I plan to post. Yes, I'm fine.

Just been a bit busy and then our internet went down at home then I was housesitting for a family with no wireless and no idea how to get logged into their computer, so, I've been "away".

Anywho, I have auditions tonight for the upcoming Spring play at church. If I don't get home too late I'll post more then!

a bit late

2006-01-05T10:42:00.000-07:00

Happy New Year!

Yes, I made it to 2006 and I rung in the new year by reading a book. I took pause at midnight to wish my bird and my cat good tidings and then went back to reading.

I'm very sad to report that this year appears to be moving just as faster, or even faster, than 2005 did. I was praying that time would shift down a bit and take the leisurely path to the future, but no such luck. I've been working all week between watching Firefly (!!!!!) and the movies I got from Blockbuster Online (one month free thanks to Papa Johns, so I took it!). Anywho, yes, I'm still here.

I hope to update more often this year but I make no promises. My only resolution is to apply (and be accepted, of course) for Peace Corps. That entails a lot, like paying off my small amount of debt (which means working longer hours to make more money), getting into shape, getting things in order and so on. I'll likely be posting more here about that, so stay tuned.

Well, break is about over and the phones beckon (darn phones), so I'll say adieu for now.

peace and quiet

2005-12-30T11:48:00.000-07:00

Well, Christmas is over and all through the house,
the only creatures stirring are my bird and my cat but no mouse.
The family has left, left me in peace!
The new year will start with the company of me.

It's lovely these days, with the gifts all taken
and the tv is silent, not a noise is it makin'.
I love my dear family, don't get me wrong,
but when we are all together its a dance and a song.
My soul longs for quiet, for stillness and rest,
and thankfully now I'm getting the best!

I hope your New Year comes in with a crash,
I'll likely be sleeping avoiding the bash.
Best wishes to you as you start
your next trip round the sun.
I hope it is full of joy and of fun.

I think I'll end this little poem about now.
Hope you enjoyed it, please tell me how!

merry christmas

2005-12-25T00:07:00.000-07:00

May your day be filled with joy and love.

Merry Christmas to all, and may God bless us, every one.

seven such things

2005-12-23T12:45:00.000-07:00

In lieu of a real post, I give you the Seven Meme. And bonus if anyone can tell me what in the world a meme is.

Seven Things I Want to do Before I Die
1. Visit all seven major continents
2. Publish a book
3. Photograph an elephant and a tiger that are not in a zoo
4. Get married
5. Visit the Holy Land
6. See the Aurora Borealis
7. Have children

Seven Things I Can't Do
1. Cross my eyes
2. Wiggle my ears
3. Blow spit bubbles
4. Speak Spanish
5. Kiss my elbow
6. Understand Greek
7. Make everybody happy

Seven Things I Say Most Often
1. Whatever
2. For the love of Peter, Paul and Mary
3. What's his butt
4. Anywho
5. You're fired
6. Hello, thank you for calling Compassion, this is Sara, how may I help you?
7. You are so adorable

Seven Books I Love (I'm going to cheat a bit here, sorry)
1. All Jane Austen books, especially Persuasion
2. The Lord of the Rings, and all other things by Tolkien
3. Anything by C.S. Lewis, especially the Space Trilogy
4. The Time Quartet by Madeline L'Engle (Wrinkle in Time and the other three)
5. The Thursday Next series by Jasper Fforde
6. The Kingdom series by Cynthia Voigt
7. The Pokey Little Puppy, I don't remember the author

Seven Movie I Can Watch Over and Over
1. Thoroughly Modern Millie
2. Lord of the Rings
3. The Green Mile
4. Persuasion
5. 10 Things I Hate About You
6. Serenity
7. The Princess Bride

Seven Places I've Been
1. The top of Pikes Peak , Colorado
2. Macchu Picchu, Peru
3. New York, New York
4. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
5. Four Corners (Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona and Utah meeting)
6. The Biosphere, outside Tucson, Arizona
7. Sand Dunes State Park, Colorado

Seven People I Would Have Liked to Met
1. Mother Teresa
2. My Great-Grandmother Gerritzen
3. C.S. Lewis
4. JRR Tolkien
5. Jane Austen
6. Audrey Hepburn
7. Madeline L'Engle (she's not dead but what are my chances of meeting her??)

beware the germs

2005-12-17T13:57:00.000-07:00

Funny the things you notice. As I've thought more and more about joining the Peace Corps, the more I notice the bizarre behavior of my fellow countrymen.

One in particular, a woman I've worked with for years, comes to mind. This woman is one of those people that the vast majority of people would consider slow. She's nice and even sweet but just doesn't catch on or "get it" most of the time. I've never worked closely with her so I don't know her well. Lately, I've seen her in the breakroom a lot.

Every time she comes in, she grabs a napkin from the large stack that sits in a basket next to the sink. She then unfolds it and opens a cupboard, the fridge, turns on the water, etc. She won't touch anything without a napkin.

The funny thing, to me at least, is that the napkin is really no cleaner than anything else in the kitchen. If there are germs on the faucet then they have surly migrated to the stack of napkins only a foot away. People are constantly cooking around those napkins, pawing them to pick up a few, breathing in that general direction.

So what makes those napkins a safe barrier?

I understand OCD and phobias, I know that there are people out there who are seriously afraid of germs. But this woman doesn't quite fit the bill. It's like she heard somewhere about these other people and thought, "Germs are bad, I should take some action," but she didn't grasp the situation fully so her fear is only half-founded. I can't decide if I should point out that the napkins are just as likely to be germ infested as everything else or not. Of course, I'm not going to say anything because her actions are none of my business. If she feels better using a napkin then use the napkin.

Just makes precious little sense to me. Kinda like the other co-worker who insists on using seven paper towels each time she washes her hand. Nevermind that only two of those seven towels absorbs any of the water on her hands, she swears that seven dry better than two.

Ah, America, the land of abundance that has made us stupid. Gotta love it.

****disclaimer: I am in no way wishing to rag on anyone with true OCD or phobias. I know they are real and can be difficult to live with. I'm just noticing all those weird things around us again. So don't take offense, none is meant. Thanks.****

the year of the Grinch

2005-12-12T13:08:00.000-07:00

It's December 12th, only 13 days left till Christmas and I'm not in the spirit of things just yet.

It's not for lack of trying. I have bought almost all the presents I'm giving, listened to Christmas carols on the radio, enjoyed the snow and even bought some new lights for the house. But I have no tree, have not hung the lights and the stocking that hangs outside my cube at work makes me want to gag each time I see it. As I pondered my lack of usual Christmas cheer and the cause, I realized that Christmas is no longer Christmas.

You see, there have been Christmas decorations up since before Halloween, Christmas music was playing before Thanksgiving. Stores are bickering over saying Merry Christmas or not and everyone wants me to buy more and more and more.

I think I'm sick of the whole thing.

Christmas is one of my favorite times of year. Not because I get a lot of cool stuff, but because I get to give. And I get to reflect on what has been given to me (and the entire world) in the disguise of a little tiny baby. The whole peace on earth, goodwill towards man resonates deeply with me. That's what I want, truly. More love, more compassion, more grace, and so on.

But what do I get? I get songs about snowmen and reindeer and greedy children who want stuff, about songs saying it's all about spending Christmas with that one hot guy you met last week. I get stores who have Christmas gifts out the wazoo but won't say Merry Christmas. I have neighbors who put up lights a week before Thanksgiving, totally skipping one of the best holiday's this nation has.

So far, I have no presents wrapped (bought, yes, wrapped, no), no tree to decorate, no stocking hung. The spirit of Christmas seems to be missing this year, as if it knew that our nation had deserted it and offered it up on the alter of commerce and profit. So it stayed away.

So, pardon me if I just can't get into the season. Pardon me for wanting something simpler, something truer, something full of joy and love. But don't pardon me for wanting to remember why I celebrate Christmas or for mourning the loss of the meaning of this time. You can call me a grinch if you you want, call me a scrooge, I can take it.

I'm a winner

2005-11-29T22:27:00.000-07:00

Yes, a winner. Cheers, applause, money thrown in my general direction, all is accepted here. It took some creative juice to finish a story I hate and validate my word count but I did and it's over and I never have to see that horrid story again.

And now that I've said all that, did I mention I'm a winner?

What this really means for all of you is that you get me back here at the Slinky, ranting and raving, rather than writing about whinny characters (Rachel) and having others cry all the time (wait, that's Rachel again, and sometimes Leah). Anywho, I'm done with that novel, back to writing lovely witty and funny blog posts.

In store for you this month I have a holiday rant (or two, or maybe more), a theory about stupidity, I'm sure I'll have a review of the new Narnia movie (can't wait, can't wait) and who knows what else. I've been saving up my ideas because I was either too tired after writing on my novel (which is done, by the way) or too tired from painting to type them up. But don't fear, the fun loving writer you know is back.

Now if I could just find some Valium (note this is a trademarked name, thus the capital letter) to give to the cat...

I wanna go home

2005-11-19T21:30:00.000-07:00

My friend, Miss Pottenger, recently wrote a blog post about home. She concluded that home is where your parents are. While I can respect that (and I always respect her opinion, after all, we are friends and I am fiercely loyal to my friends), I can't agree with it. Her thoughts and writings usually inspire me and this one proved no different. So now I am going to enlighten you to what I think home is. Here we go.

As a child of divorced parents and a product of a broken home, home to me is not where my parents are. As much as I love my parents, they are not my world. They brought me into the world, yes, but I sprouted wings and have flown the nest. I was in high school (senior year) when they split so I had two parents for most of my "childhood", but starting with college, I had two "homes", two places where my parents were. One was brand new, with no history but with my loving father who adored me, the other was the place I had grown up but full of mistrust and anger. Neither place was home.

Then, dad and I moved into a new house. Despite having all my stuff there and living there, it wasn't really home. It was dad's house, not mine. And I was at a time in my life where I longed for my own place, my own home. Yet every attempt to move out ended in disappointment and crushed dreams. So I resigned myself to living in someone else's house and not having my a home to call my very own.

In 2002, while still living with dad, I took a trip. A long trip over an ocean to another country, Peru. Neither parent went with me (after all, I was 24) and no family to speak of around for miles. Just a few co-workers and a bunch of other people loosely connected to me through Compassion, most of whom I had never met.

I stepped off that plane into the arms of my Peruvian friends, into their culture and lives and country.

I had come home.

I felt at peace in Peru. I fell in love with the people, the culture and even some of the food (not the purple corn juice, but they have some good stuff, I promise). I felt my heart had come to a place at rest, a place where I could just be. My spirit felt free and alive. The hotel room and lobby felt more like home to me than the house where I had lived for six years. I never wanted to leave. But I had to go, had to return to the states and the house where my father lived and all my stuff resided. But I felt like I was leaving home when I got on that plane that carried me over the ocean back to my country of birth.

Life went on. I eventually moved out of my dad's house into the basement of a couple from church. While I felt comfortable there it never felt like home. I've since moved back into my dad's house and it's not home either. But in February, when I got to go back to Peru, I got to go home. It felt so perfect getting off the plane, this time I knew where I was going, what to do. And again I felt peace and comfort. The sounds of the drivers honking at night, the windows that don't close because it never rains, the faces of the Peuvian's smiling at me, it all filled me up and consumed me. I had come home, again.

So, home for me can't be where my parents are. My mom lives in a town I've never been to, my dad is moving to another state. Home isn't where you live or even where you go for holidays. For me, home is where my heart finds peace, comfort, rest and familiarity. It's a state of being, not a place. I may find in my future that home is a tiny island nation or an African village. Maybe it's a hut on a river in Asia or in a tiny apartment in Eastern Europe. Home is the feeling that I belong, that I am safe and that I can be myself. Home can happen at dinner with friends, driving along the interstate in the dead of night or in the place where you live. Maybe it's with your parents, your siblings, your spouse or with your pets, but it may not be with anyone in particular. It may not be four walls and a roof, it could be in a smile, in the smell of morning breeze, in the way the sun hits your face as you walk along the road.

That's home.

I wanna go there, badly. But I'm not sure there is a country road that can take me there...

flashback

2005-11-16T13:26:00.000-07:00

I was in the breakroom, fixing my lunch, when I was violently whipped back to high school. Two co-workers sat there at a table, and the conversations went something like this (I am not directly quoting here, just a general idea)...

"So, Mary sits next to my boyfriend and tells me I can't sit next to him because she needs to get to know him. And I'm like, no, you don't, he's my boyfriend, he's not here to get to know you."

"Yeah, I heard Sue wants to break up with Jim and Dave is now dating Joan."

"But why does Sue want to break up?"

Me again, now, wasn't that painful? Honestly, I'm glad I'm past all that. If I revert, someone smack me into tomorrow PLEASE.

Okay, I feel better, all happy and grown up and out of high school again.

evil toyotas

2005-11-14T19:07:00.000-07:00

So I'm driving to work this morning, moving along at a nice pace, when the road narrows down to two lanes. Usually not a problem as there is less traffic. But this gold Toyota truck pulls in front of me and starts slowing down for no apparent reason. Thinking he might be getting ready to pull into the turn lane, I wait. Then I notice he is not turning and other cars are pulling in ahead of him. He's just going slow.

I pull around him, and continue on. Not two minutes later, I meet up with another gold Toyota, same looking truck except this one has a support our troops sticker on it. And this one is also going slower than molasses. I go to move around him when first truck pulls up and boxes me in.

Neither one would hit the speed limit and they held up me and half the town driving all the way down Powers.

Darn Toyota drivers (with apologizes to my sister, who drives a silver Toyota truck).

Anywho. Crazy weekend of painting and not much writing. I'm not behind on words just yet but I no longer have my five day margin I was trying to keep.

But I have yummy tea to keep me typing away.

Now it's time to cook dinner, then back to the keyboard for more words. Need to hit at least 2500 tonight to make up for the sad 1500 I did this weekend (that's over 3 days!).

May the road angels smile on you and keep the evil drivers away.

watch the words fly by

2005-11-09T21:43:00.000-07:00

Hello my dear friends. It's been a while. Forgive me. I've been frantically writing away on my novel for NaNo. And it's going well. I passed 19000 words tonight. I've averaged over 2000 a day (even without writing last Friday due to a hockey game, but more on that later) and had my highest per hour writing this month with a whopping 2406 in one hour on Saturday.

Last week I hosted our first write-in for Colorado Springs. We have three, me, myself and I. An entertaining group to be sure, but not too moral boosting. Thankfully, tonight we had four, and the other three people were all new NaNo's! Three people who aren't part of our our core group!! It was lovely to meet them. And I got another 2300 words pounded out.

Speaking of pounding, I have to figure out something to give our new pastor, a pound of something non-perishable and good. It's our way of saying "welcome, we like you, please have a ton of food to start you off here." Nice thought but I don't think they realize how many people we have... might actually be a "ton" of stuff!

Anywho, I mentioned hockey, didn't I? I did. Last Friday I took my buddy, Jake, to the CC hockey game. My first hockey game. I knew hockey to be violent sport, and I can handle that. What I didn't realize is how very unsportsman like the crowd at a hockey game would be. I was a cheerleader back in the day and I learned that you can cheer against the other team, but you never EVER boo them. Apparently, the hockey crowd missed the lesson on being nice and do unto others part of kindergarten. I'm ready to send them all back so they can catch this most important lesson.

So, I lived through my first hockey experience, I learned a few things since Jake is a fan and was ready to share his knowledge.

Okay, it's almost time for dinner (yes, a bit late) and maybe write another hundred words. If I can type 500 more tonight I'll break 20000!

Later.

lost bunnies and time-shifting thoughts

2005-11-03T22:31:00.000-07:00

Why is it that I spent a month in utter anticipation to start writing and now that November is here I want to write every story BUT the one I picked? I don't get it.

Don't get me wrong, I'm writing my story about Jacob and Rachel and Leah. I just think that the 6000+ words I've written thus far may hit the scrap heap upon the first rewrite. It's a lot backstory that I don't need but I have to write it to know where I'm coming from. Once I get them all married things should pick up. And it's fun to see them developing. Just not as gung ho as I thought I was a month ago.

So, you ask, what on earth is the title of this post about? Well, the other night while driving down Powers, I stopped at the light at Constitution. And what do I see in front of my car? A little rabbit, in the middle of the street, making like the wind for the island where the light pole stands. I could tell the poor animal was scared out of his wits. He wanted to cross the right turn lane but lots of cars kept coming. I so wanted to get out of the car and pick the poor thing up and bring him home. (How many poors is that?) If I thought I could have snagged him before the light changed I would have. Alas, alack, I couldn't.

And the time-shifting... well. Again, driving, this time, downtown. I look down a side street and I see this fountain like structure in the middle of the next intersection. I have NEVER seen this structure before and wonder how on earth I've missed it. So out comes this story idea about a woman who can see structures from the past but she is in the present. Something to do with real time and God's time and how the two overlap and time isn't linear and all that jazz. I want to explore this but alas, alack, I have another story that demands my attention this month.

Well, it's about bed time and I need some major sleep. Tomorrow night I'm taking my buddy Jake to a hockey game. I'm sure he'll teach me all sorts of stuff that I will promptly forget as soon as I get home, but hey, you are only eight once. The kid should be spoiled by me and that is just what I plan to do.

Goodnight, sweet void.

third time's a charm

2005-11-01T19:32:00.000-07:00

Cross your fingers, hold your breath and pray that this works.

I tried updating Sunday night and Monday night to no avail. And both times Blogger lost my post (what happened to autosave?) and I forgot what every wonderful witty report that I created so I have to start from scratch.

Sorry, water is boiling, time to make the tea...

Okay, tea is steeping. So, I went to WY this weekend and painted. We got the master suite done (bath, hallway/sink area and room). Not as much as we hoped for but the paint wasn't as easy as Dad thought it would be (thick and temperamental) and it required two coats. I'll be going back up in two weeks to do more. The sooner we get it painted the sooner he can move!

I'm in love with this new tea company, Adagio Tea. Loose leaf tea is the way to go, and now that I'm there, I can't see going back. Let me know if you want a $5 gift certificate to give them a try.

Panera opened in the last few days so I stopped there for supper (and breakfast, I got a bagel and cream cheese for the morning!). Their soups are pretty good and I love the bagels.

So, I should be writing on my novel. This lovely set of words won't count. So I'll be going now. Have a lovely evening. Wish the muse in my direction!!

painting dreams

2005-10-27T17:18:00.000-06:00

This weekend I get to paint.

Again.

Dad has a new house that needs painting and since I'm the resident painter, I get the job. So this weekend I get to drive up to WY to paint all weekend. So much for enjoying my hour that we get back this weekend.

It also means that I get to drive to WY in the middle of the night with Vicky. Joy of all joys.

Painting is not my idea of a way to spend a weekend, but if it gets dad moved into his house, then I'm up for it.

So, who wants to feed my cat this weekend??

hugs around the world

2005-10-24T22:29:00.000-06:00

As mentioned in my last post, last week we had about 400 international staff in the Springs for our Global Conference. Every time I am fortunate enough to have cross-cultural experiences with our staff I am reminded that humanity is the same all over the globe. Just some of it is better than the rest.

Take hugging. Hugging is one of those things that you either love or hate. Some cultures are more prone to it than others. American's tend to fall in the middle. We hug but it's not our strongest interpersonal skill.

I've been told I'm a good hugger. Not one that hangs limp arms around your shoulders. I'm a strong hugger that isn't afraid to squeeze, especially if you are a great friend, if you (or I) look like you need a hug and if you ask for one. I thought I knew how to hug well. Then I meet George.

George is from Kenya but currently working in Burkina Faso. He is about my height, maybe an inch or two taller (I'm 5 foot 4 inches for the uninformed), and not skinny but not massive either. He doesn't appear to be of great strength. He sat with me at dinner on Thursday and we chatted. After dinner, as we were all preparing to leave, he went to give me a hug.

He about squeezed all the air out of me, not to mention he somehow lifted me off my feet.

That was a hug!

I saw him again Friday afternoon and wanted to wish him a good trip home. Again, he gave me a hug. I think I know now what it would be to be picked up and hugged by a gorilla. They aren't tall but they are strong, even if they appear gentle and unassuming.

If I forget every other hug I've ever received, I think I'll remember this one. It was amazing, warm, strong, and everything a hug should be.

If you ever need a hug, let me know. I'm taking lessons from George!

international shopping brooha

2005-10-22T16:45:00.000-06:00

They say you haven't shopped until you do so in a country not your own.

Well, I say you haven't shopped until you have escorted someone from another country through your familiar shopping grounds.

This last week I had the chance to take my four Peruvian friends shopping here in the Springs. What a blast! I have a new appreciation on how we act in their markets and shops after watching my friends in our stores.

First, they wanted to go to a thrift store, so we headed to GoodWill. They ran like children into the store, anxious to see what treasures awaited. They sorted through children's clothing to take home, stuffed animals, books and kicknacks (but they did not buy knicknacks).

Then we went to the mall where the first big challenge was explaining salad dressing to my friend Jose. Our visiting staff know English but some things are easier to explain and grasp than others. After dinner, we started in search of a toy store or doll shop. Along the way, I kept losing one or more of my party into various shops. I was a nervous wreck. While I know our malls are very safe (especially the one we were at) and that there were no crowds, I didn't want to lose one of my friends or having something happen to them.

Finally, we went through Borders (large bookstore for the uninformed). It was the release day for Wess Stafford's book (he Compassion's president) and we thought we would see if they had it. So my four Peruvian friends walk in and accost the staff with "We want Too Small to Ignore by Wess."

Not, by Wess Stafford.

Not, by Dr. Wesley K. Stafford.

Not by Dr. Wesley K. Stafford and Dean Merrill.

Just by Wess.

I was laughing so hard it took a few moments before I could help finish the author's name for the very confused staff.

Sadly, they didn't have it yet. But we made a big enough stink that they hopefully have it out now. I'll be going back in a day or so to check.

After that I took them back to the hotel to catch some z's before the next day's meetings and events. I think they enjoyed their shopping trip. I'm glad I was able to help them like they have helped me when I've visited their country.

And next time you see a shopper that seems a bit confused and has an accent, be kind to them, they may be shopping in a country other than their own. We look pretty silly to them when we go visiting and shopping in their homelands as well!

herding cats

2005-10-15T15:39:00.000-06:00

No, this has nothing to do with my previous post (but I still miss 007, and his brother really misses him which is hard to watch). Rather, it has to do with the month of November and National Novel Writing Month.

You see, each region has an appointed leader, the Municipal Liaison. And this year, they opened it up for each region to have two. Guess who was asked to be the second leader... me.

There is a forum just for ML's and it's tag lines says that leading writers is like herding cats. I would say it's more like teaching preschool. For some unknown reason, trouble started cropping up just when I get ML standing. Someone doesn't like the language someone else is using, why do we have to have the kids in our group (NaNo is open to 13 and up and CS has several high schoolers signed up) and so on.

I met with our head ML yesterday to plan our kick-off party and she was shocked and relieved when I said I was fine in laying down some ground rules for our write in meetings. She hasn't felt like she could put her foot down before (she's one of those really nice people who cares a lot). Thankfully she has me this year, the mean, don't care, do what's right and don't feel bad about it person.

So if you don't see much of me for the next month and a half, don't panic. I'm just writing my novel, putting temperamental writers into their corners and getting everyone to play nice.

And thanks to Tara and Emily for commenting on the last post, it meant a lot to me.

007

2005-10-10T19:25:00.000-06:00

Because I'm crying too much to say anything else...

Putting Down the Cat

by Billy Collins

The assistant holds her on the table,
the fur hanging limp from her tiny skeleton,
and the veterinarian raises the needle of fluid
which will put the line through her ninth life.

"Painless," he reassures me, "like counting
backwards from a hundred," but I want to tell him
that our poor cat cannot count at all,
much less to a hundred, much less backwards.

Goodbye to our old friend. I miss you already.

did you miss me

2005-10-08T12:26:00.000-06:00

I've been "out" for a few days. Life has just got a bit busy, work crazy and I've been tired. Sorry if I wasn't here to provide you with fresh with on a regular basis.

As I mentioned in my last post, it's that time of year again when I write a novel. I can't wait. This year I'm a co-ML (Municipal Liaison) which means I have to be very adult and responsible and go to all the activities.

Last night, Miss Pottenger and Dara and I went to see Serenity. It was great, funny and well worth the Friday night ticket price.

Today I've made a half-hearted attempt at cleaning. With dad moving (he bought the house yesterday) I need to clean up just a bit. So when the movers come in they are frightened and we have a place to store the stuff that is being left behind.

I'm planning on going to my first hockey game in November as well. For his birthday I gave Jake (my eight year old, sports fanatic friend) a promise to go to a hockey game. So now he asks me about it every weekend. Cute kid.

Okay, that's my update. Maybe I'll have a wonderful encounter this afternoon that will be worthy of writing about. How's that for leaving you in anticipation?

in the lovely month of

2005-10-03T11:55:00.000-06:00

Yes, it's almost time again.

November is almost here. And that means total insanity as I write at least 50,000 on a new novel starting on Nov. 1 and finishing on Nov. 30.

And I am so excited because I have the best idea now for this year's novel.

I'll tell you more about it when I have time (or maybe not, I don't want to kill my creative jucies by saying too much just yet). But I am looking forward to another year of NaNoWriMo (that is National Novel Writing Month for those who are unaware).

And if you want to join, you should give it a try. Visit their site here. You can't sign up for another day or so due to technical troubles, but soon!!!

near death day

2005-09-29T13:00:00.000-06:00

I thought I was joking when I told my supervisor that I would call in dead on Friday.

Then some crazy person tried to run me over this morning. Not once, but twice. The same guy. The first time, he tries to plow into my side coming into my lane. I was at least even with him and he should have seen me, but he didn't. I'm next to the median on my left so I have no place to go. I slam on my horn and when he finally sees me, he just keeps coming. He gives me this look that says "what's your problem?". My problem, sir, is that I'm driving in this lane that you are trying to enter. I'm here first, you are not. You didn't bother to check, you are now less than five inches away from my vehicle and you are about to crash into me.

He finally backs away but then pulls in right behind me (because of course the driver behind me was just as frightened and pulled back as far as he or she could). But we are driving on a new stretch of road (Powers) and it's pretty foggy out. I know a stoplight is coming up but can't see it in the fog, so I start to slow down a bit. Sure enough, when the light pops into view it is red. I come to a nice, peaceful stop. But the guy who already tried to ram me off the road is once again not paying attention. He came within inches of slamming into my rear.

But that's not all.

He gave me ANOTHER look!

Sir, I'm stopped because the light is red. I'm following the law.

At that point I prayed that God would teach him a lesson and please not to involve me and my car in said lesson.

All that plus the bizarre slow traffic flow meant that my leaving five minutes early didn't make a lick of difference. I flew into our parking lot and ran to my desk. But it's moving day for the majority of our department, so there are boxes and people standing around everywhere.

One of my nice co-workers (ie, one I like), says "you've got three minutes" as I rush to my desk and start kicking boxes. I replied with "but my computer takes five minutes to boot up". I made it just barely.

Is there anyway I can arrange a hospital stay for tomorrow? I could use the rest and protection from the crazy people.

golden

2005-09-26T20:00:00.000-06:00

Yesterday I went to the hills and I found gold. It's an amazing year to see the aspens.
So while the rest of the town is home watching football, I'll be out appreciating nature.

Just in case you can't get here to see them yourself, here's a sampling. If you are truly homesick and want more, let me know. I took a bunch!

candy store

2005-09-22T18:10:00.000-06:00

Miss Pottenger recently provided us with eye candy.

Now it's my turn.

Meet Richard Hammond.

He's lovely, he's British and he has great taste in cars.

I know this because I watch him on the show Top Gear on Discovery Channel.

He reminds me a bit of Hugh Jackman and for some reason, the spiky hair doesn't bother me.

Go ahead, drool a bit.

slacking

2005-09-21T20:30:00.000-06:00

Tonight, I'm being a slacker.

I should have worked until 7, gone to the Y and then come home to a healthy dinner.

I did none of that.

Instead, I left work at 5:30, came straight home and ate cheese dip and chips for dinner.

Yes, the life of a slacker.

If I can muster up the energy, I'll go work on my book. My dear friend from Peru, Soledad, just sent me some great feedback. Great feedback helps revive my interest in my work. And we have another two hour meeting in a few weeks (at work) so I should be able to polish up the novel and put a good ending on it.

Remind me in a week or two to talk about my feelings on the current trend in literature and endings of books. It's a frightening thing.

Okay, I'm going back to slacking. Feet up, cup of tea, I'm set.

not enough

2005-09-13T18:27:00.000-06:00

Put a hold on the sympathy cards. I'm not dying.

Apparently, they didn't get enough cells to test so I have to go back to the drs and go through that horrid appointment again.

All I can say is I am SO not paying another office visit fee for this!

And yes, someday, I'll write a story about it.

blindsided

2005-09-12T21:20:00.000-06:00

I know, two posts in one day.

It doesn't happen often, and it's only happening because there is something on my mind and there is no other way to get it out.

You see, a week and a half ago I went to the drs for my annual exam. The one I hate but must endure because otherwise, they don't give me my pills. And since my pills make me a much for balanced person (and take away the horrible pain), I go.

The drill is always the same. They take their sample, send it away, and in a week or so you get a card in the mail if the results are normal.

Otherwise, you get a phone call.

So Nathan tells me tonight, after I get home from church, that my drs office called and I need to call them back.

And my mind takes off.

Of course, it's too late to call them tonight, so I have at least twelve hours or so to panic, think of worst case scenarios, write my will and so on.

The worst thing is, half of me is totally calm. Part of me is sure that they simply lost the sample, they erased their address database and can't send me the results, etc.

But the other half, the creative, imaginative, insane half is already halfway to Rome with ideas and doomsday proclamations.

I'm sure it's nothing. Even if it is, I'm sure it's something that can be handled. I just need to get this out so my mind will let it go and I can get some sleep tonight.

So, bye bye to the bad thoughts, so long to the worst case scenarios, adios to panic.

Let's hope it works.

just plain icky

2005-09-12T13:04:00.000-06:00

I had some wonderful plans to post this weekend, including putting up photos of my room (now painted, but needing a bit of cleaning before photos can be taken). But all those plans fell to the wayside because I got hit with a Mack truck.

Okay, so I didn't really get hit with a truck, but I sure felt like I did. A weird, 24-hour sinus bug hit me sometime while I was sitting in church Saturday evening. By the time I got home, it was all I could do to keep upright. I lost my voice by 9 pm. Woke up every hour, on the hour (I'm weird that way, my internal clock is obnoxious) trying to empty my head and stomach of all the ickyness. Sunday was spent sleeping and watching Stargate since I couldn't do much else.

Amazing, I woke up today with a clear head and the only lingering effect is being tired and having a sore throat. And I'm really thirsty.

So, the photos will have to wait, as will any witty essays on the state of the world. I'm just going to spend the rest of the day (after I get home from work) recovering from my weekend.

nowhere to hide

2005-09-08T23:05:00.000-06:00

After years of cold dinners, rude awakenings on weekend mornings and people that didn't understand the word "NO", we finally put an end to telemarketers. I was so very happy when I added my name to the Colorado Do Not Call list, even more elated when a national list went into effect.

Finally we had quiet evenings and the phone didn't rule our days.

Then the spam started in earnest. Emails for everything that we never knew we needed.

Talk of a do not spam list make my head swim with glee.

I was starting to think we have put a stop to rude interruptions from total strangers.

Then I read the comment on my last post (which has been removed) that was left with no name and an ad for a home loan.

I thought maybe it was a fluke, until I saw a similar comment on Miss Pottenger's blog.

Now, I don't mind anyone reading my blog, and you all know that I love comments, but I am not interested in using my blog as free advertising space for those who refuse to leave their names (or for that matter, for anyone who just thinks free ad space is there for the taking.

So the offending comment has been removed. Whoever left it is welcome to visit here, read, and leave valid comments. But know that this is my space and if any product championing is going to take place it will be done by me.

I need my hiding space from the evil world of marketing, and this is it. Let's not lose this precious place.

Now, go leave some legitimate comments about what you dislike about telemarketers, spammers and other rude and invasive marketing personnel?

the density of

2005-09-06T13:15:00.000-06:00

I didn't mean to leave you all hanging like that. The busy weekend got the better of me and I didn't come to post. Sorry.

And a special sorry to Emily for any nasty smells she had to endure on my behalf :)

And on to today's post.

I'm shocked (though you would think I would be used to it by now) by how dense some people can be. And I have just the example to share.

Just now I was in the kitchen, fixing my Easy Mac for lunch. A co-worker that I know, made a comment about my lunch and I responded. No harm there.

But a second co-worker, one neither of us is acquainted with, piped in a comment about Easy Mac. Again, no harm done.

First co-worker leaves and second co-workers launches into a long comment about her daughter's friend in college. I'm trying to listen but I'm not really interested because, as I said, I don't know this person, nor her daughter nor her daughter's friend.

A third co-worker comes in, one I do know and one I have a question for. Since the second woman has now stopped talking, and she is not between me and the third person, I say hello and prepare to ask him a question.

I don't get more than hello out before second co-worker starts talking again. Third co-worker exits without me getting to ask him the question and this woman is still talking. I had tried to avoid her, not respond to her and even engage in another conversation in an attempt to let her know that I wasn't interested, but she didn't get the drift. She just wasn't getting that a) I didn't care and b) that I didn't care.

Honestly, I wish being honest didn't get me in so much trouble. If I could get away with it, I would have smiled, said good-by and walked away from this person. But that gets me in trouble so I didn't. But I'll be sure to avoid this person in the hall, the bathroom and the kitchen from here on out. Yes, this means I need to hide under my desk from now till all eternity, but if I can escape such people it may just be worth it.

quick

2005-08-30T19:00:00.000-06:00

I am so hungry, please, please send food quickly.

I'm not so picky, not when I'm growing faint and the world is becoming a distant memory.

Anybody?

Cookies, milk, popcorn, a grilled-cheese sandwich.

Anything for this poor, hungry girl??

what i did on my summer vacation

2005-08-29T14:00:00.000-06:00

(This post is a bit long but I hope you enjoy it)

Clarksfork Camping Chronicles

The chronicles of the Doyle family camping trip on the Clarksfork river, near Cody Wyoming.

Saturday, August 13

I get up early to have time to go to the bank. I’m back home by 10 but we don’t actually leave until closer to noon. I ended up sleeping from the south of Denver until Cheyenne. After a quick meal (and the discovery that my dad as well as my brother has a fear of drive-thru’s) I took over driving. Of course, this is when the rain started. I drove to Sweetwater Station (mostly just a rest stop and a little station of some sort). By now, the rain had stopped. I always end up driving in rain in Wyoming. Dad took over driving and we pulled into Riverton around 7 pm. Carin, who was driving out from California, didn’t arrive until midnight. She was held up in CA by a burning bus that closed the road. Only in California.

Sunday, August 14

I was awoken from slumber by two small voices saying “what are those bumps down there”. I assumed in my early morning grogginess they were referring to Carin and I. We had slept on the living room floor. The voices belonged to the grandchildren of my dad’s best friend, Emmett and Ella. Sometime after this, once we were all up, dressed, and fed, we took off for the long drive to camp. From Riverton to Cody then up the Chief Joseph Highway. We had to stop at Walmart and buy fishing licenses.

We get to camp around 5 or so and set everything up. By everything I mean three tents, three cots (Nathan sleeps on the ground, the rest of us use cots, smart people we are), four sleeping pads and bags, potty shelter, assorted tables, hooks for lanterns and fishing poles. Anxious to get fishing, Nathan, dad and I grab poles and go out to the river.

The fish were biting and I caught about four (but could only keep one, the others were too big and had to go back). Nathan and I had some fish with dinner. Because we fished so long we ended up cooking fish and chili (not together) in the dark.

Monday, August 15

The night was cold and I woke up several times in the dark wondering why my nose hurt so much (it was pretty frozen). I made it through the night only by placing a Hot Hands warmer over my nose. Once the sun was up, I woke up to ground squirrels playing outside my tent. After breakfast, I’m out on the river fishing. The water was clearer than I ever remember it being before and the fishing is great. More bits, more catches, but most of the fish are too big to keep (anything over 8 inches goes back). By the time I come back to camp, everyone else is up and ready to hit the river. I duck back into my tent and go back to sleep around noon. I sleep for three hours, when everyone else comes back. We whip up dinner of sausage and potatoes and enjoy the wonderful weather.

Tuesday, August 16

Not so cold overnight so I sleep well. We all begin to stir around 9 in the morning (except Carin, who I think got up at 5 every day, I don’t know what’s wrong with that child). I catch one keeper and clean it (Nathan insisted I learn how to clean my own fish). After an hour or so of fishing, I’m ready for my hammock. I lounge, reading a book, for a few hours then head to my tent for another nap. I love naps. When the others return in the afternoon, Dad and Nathan had lots of fish for dinner and Carin whipped out the PBJ (she won’t eat fish, I’m sure she’s from Mars or something). We cooked fish over the fire and had a great meal. S’mores for dessert finished the day. We make plans to hike to the canyon tomorrow.

Wednesday, August 17

We all get up around 9 (except Carin, but we’ve already talked about her) and eat. We drive down to the start of the canyon. Hiking in requires you to shimmy across rock ledges that drop off straight into the river. There are several places that I announce to the rest of my family “You have GOT to be kidding me, I don’t want to die.” But I make it. We spend several hours in the canyon fishing and hanging out. When it’s time to go back, Nathan goes first and decided to push a large rock (you know, the size of a small child) into the river BEFORE the rest of us cross the tightest point. Again, I express my opinion about not wanting to die and how can I cross on wet rocks that slide down into the river. Nathan, always the helpful one, stands there and laughs at me. It takes a while but I finally slink through the tight spot and scamper up the hill to safety. Dad decided to fish the river back to camp and the rest of us drive. We have strict instructions to pull out steaks for dinner and get a good fire going. Carin and I do this.

Then we wait.

And wait.

And wonder where our father has gone.

Nathan goes to find him and by the time they get back, it’s 7:30 or so. Dark clouds are rolling in and we are losing our light.

By the time the steaks are ready we have erected a lean-to with a tarp to shield us from the rain. We eat in the darkness, huddling under the tarp, trying to warm up and dry out. The steaks were wonderful, despite the deteriorating weather.

Thursday, August 18

After a rainy night we wake up to more rain, a muddy river and dark clouds all around. We breakfast under the tarp and discuss options. Fishing is out, as fish cannot see the lures through the mud, but Nathan wants to try. Dad sends Carin and I up the hill to see what we can see. We see dark clouds surrounding the entire basin. Upon returning to camp we decide to pack up a day early and head back to Riverton with a stop in Thermopolis to sit in the hot springs. Nathan is disappointed but he didn’t catch any fish so he decided, wisely, to go with us. We pack up camp, drive out, stop in Cody to buy a bathing suit for me, then drive down to Thermop. Carin, dad and I hang out in the pools for about an hour while Nathan wanders around the state park. After the pool kicks us out at closing time, we drive back to Riverton.

Friday, August 19

We sleep in. This time there are no small children to wake us up and we all got beds of sorts. All the tents are set up in the yard to dry out (since it is a beautiful day in Riverton). I go shopping with Esther (wife of dad’s best friend) because Carin and Nathan went to town without me. I find some beautiful bowls, Christmas cards and candle holders all on clearance. We stop at Dairy Queen to get ice cream and they actually have ice cream (last time we tried this two years ago they were out of ice cream, bizarre but true).

Saturday, August 20

We say goodbye to the lovely state of Wyoming and drive home. As the peak comes into view we notice that it has snowed in our absence. I go to church in a tank top and freeze (because I didn’t have time to change, had to go straight there).
And that concludes our camping adventures. I still haven’t seen a bear (despite reports that the grizzlies in Yellowstone are all over the place) but I did catch a lot of great fish. I got some rest but apparently not enough (I’m already tired again!). And I think we all had a great time. Can’t wait for the next trip.

cause and effect

2005-08-26T12:59:00.000-06:00

Goodness, I've been a slacker. Sorry about that. It's been a busy week.

The good news is that as of today, our test team at work is official. Praise God. It was a long time coming and we were pretty sure it wasn't going to be approved, but it was.

I've been working on a fun write up about the camping experience, but it's not ready yet. Look for it in a week or so.

In lieu of that, here is my more recent pondering.

As you all are probably aware (even my international readers), gas prices in the USA continue to take flight in the upward direction. While our prices are not yet as extreme as most of the rest of the civilized world, it's a pretty hard hit to many of us here at home. The drastic increase is impacting some more than others, specifically those who make piddly a non-profit jobs. So here are a few ways the price of gas is impacting me personally.

* there are no more out of town excursions, meaning I don't get to drive to Woodland Park just for the heck of it, no fun zoo trips to Denver and no driving to see out of town relatives.

* running out for lunch is no longer an option, I have to bring lunch daily or buy here in the cafe. Sadly, this is also impacted by our new policy about no forgiveness for missing a minute of work time, but the gas prices have completely shut down lunch time sanity breaks.

* serious cutback in "going out" or just running to Walmart to get an item or two. All trips out must be done in conjunction with others (so I'm not running one place tonight and another tomorrow) and some things are just not bought because it's too far out of the way to get it.

* no more late night taco bell runs. It's not worth it even to get a Mt. Dew Blast.

* a serious cutback in the fun times, like going to the movies or shopping trips for books and such. it costs too much to get to the store and then actually buy something.

Thankfully, there is no drama going on right now, so trips to church are down, and most places I shop are between work and home, so I can stop on the way home in the evenings. And I have a HUGE movie collection, so even if I can't go out, I always have something to watch.

So tell me, what impact is the rising cost of gas having in your life?

back in business

2005-08-22T22:51:00.000-06:00

I'm back. I'll post something soon, when I have a minute or two.

Dara and I went to see Red Eye tonight. Very good flick.

Hope you had a good week last week.

Bye now.

out of office

2005-08-12T20:30:00.000-06:00

And time to play.

As I will be relaxing in the beautiful wilderness of Wyoming this next week I won't be updating for a while. I did want to leave you with a game to play while I'm gone. It's not hard and I think you will all have fun. Play often, play nice.

Here's the lowdown.

Post a comment and finish this phrase: Happiness is...

Then, go to the blog of the person who answered right above you.

Leave them a comment for them to say hi.

Have fun, and I hope that you enjoy this little game. I look forward to reading what everyone thinks happiness is when I get back.

did I say that

2005-08-10T21:11:00.000-06:00

I made myself laugh last night.

Getting ready for bed, I had a fleeting though about reading a book. And I thought to myself, "What was that book I was reading about the girl and her friends and evil stepmothers?"

Then I remembered.

That would be the book I wrote.

Made me laugh.

the interview game

2005-08-02T23:30:00.000-06:00

This is a fun little interview game. My friend Jo from Chez la laquet sent me five questions to answer here on my blog. So here are her questions and my answers. After you learn all this amazing stuff about me, you can see how to play!

1. What song(s), taste(s) and smell(s) transport you instantly back to your childhood? Why?

Answer: Okay, songs. The soundtrack to “Paint Your Wagon” and most anything by Anne Murry or the Carpenters because that’s what we listened to in the car. When I was little (before Carin was born) we lived in Wyoming and had long car rides everywhere. Then on family road trips as I got older. Vicky and I would sing “Don’t disturb the ladybug,” and “Gold Fever”. It wasn’t until high school or college I asked dad why one song from PYW ended with the word “deal”. That’s when dad realized I had never seen the show, only heard it! Tastes, peanut butter and jelly sandwich with chips in it and chocolate milk to drink. A favorite childhood meal that couldn’t be had at school. And cherry chips, like chocolate chips but with cherry. I used to sneak handfuls of them when I wasn’t supposed to. Smells, pasta cooking in water. Weird, I know, but my favorite childhood meal was mac & cheese so the smell is in my memory.

2. What are the best & worst things about living in Colorado Springs /Colorado?

Answer: The best has to be living next to such a beautiful mountain and having wonderful wild areas so close. A short drive and I’m in the mountains and far away from “the world”. We are also big enough to have decent shopping and we attract pretty good theater, but aren’t so big that there aren’t opportunities for us amateurs to get involved. The worst has to be that CS is growing and getting really big and it takes forever to get places, especially since we still have a small town mentality and haven’t developed a decent public transport system! That and we are always the target in movies to be blown up since we have NORAD here. I would like to say our lovely zoo is on that SAME mountain so if NORAD is targeted all the wonderful animals would be gone as well… and we have the largest reticulated giraffe herd in the USA!

3. My friend Ruth says “honestly” @ the end of sentences all the time (imagine Billy Connolly in a Glaswegian accent!) I don’t take the mick (tease her) – much! What word or phrase do you use “too much” in every day speech?

Answer: There are more than I like to admit! I’ve recently taken to saying “Good Lord” all the time and I’ve been known to overuse “whatever” and “fab-u-lous”. I also like to say “for the love of everything pure and holy” and “for the love of Peter, Paul and Mary.” If it’s not bad, I’ll just say, “for the love of Peter” or “for the love of Peter and Paul.” When I get to Mary, you know I’m frustrated.

4. What were you doing in Peru? What was the best thing about your visit? Why? *
* Ok, I realize this is technically 2 ½ questions … go on, let me get away with it, just this once!

Answer: I was on a tour with Compassion International, my employer, but as a paying sponsor. It was my second trip. I went the first time in 2002 as my five year anniversary with the organization. At that time, I sponsored one girl, Sandra, there and my dad sponsored one girl, Katherine. I met them both on the first trip. I had such an amazing time that my dad mentioned one day that he wouldn’t mind going if he could see Macchu Picchu. So, the next tour that rolled around we both went on. This time, I had two girls, Sandra (now 16) and Karen (age 4) and dad had Katherine (now 7) and a boy, Miguel (also 7). While there, dad picked another child, Keysi (age 6). So now, between the two of us, we have five sponsored children in Peru. We also got to see Macchu Picchu because we stayed after the tour and struck out on our own.

It’s hard to say what the best thing was. The first trip I had “moments” that really defined the trip for me. This time, it wasn’t as overwhelming because I had already experienced a lot (being in a new country, hearing the language, meeting a sponsored child). But a few highlights were meeting Karen and seeing Macchu Picchu. Karen was a little angel who reminds me of me, she could truly be my daughter. And when I found out her mom is my age, it hit me pretty hard that here was this woman my age, living half way around the world, married with two kids, thanking me for caring for her daughter. It was a lot to take in. Macchu Picchu is just amazing, hiding up in the Andes, tucked away from everything. It’s an amazing place, built by people who have long since vanished. I’m amazed at how the things we leave behind speak so much as to who we were. I should have been a historian.

And having my dear friend Soledad offer to translate my novel (which is dedicated to and inspired by Sandra) into Spanish was a wonderful bonus!

5. If you could teach everyone in the world one thing, what would it be?

Answer: Only one????? Tough question. I’m tempted to say, “how to use a turn signal” but that doesn’t apply to much of the world because not everyone drives vehicles, so scrap that idea. Then there’s the practicle stuff like good nutrition or how to clean water, but again, half the world already knows about that stuff. So one thing to teach EVERYONE in the world… it would be to teach everyone that we are all human, under our skin we are from the same stuff, and that if we want to not screw up our planet and our lives any more than already done, we have to start caring about each other. I would teach them how to see past skin color and to really love each other, to share their last bite of bread with whoever is hungry and how to stand up again evil.

Okay, so that’s more than one thing, but maybe I can sum it up in one word, compassion. I know, sounds like a cop out, but compassion means “to suffer with”, and if we all learned to suffer with one another, we would be more loving and stand up to evil and help each other. Yeah, that’s it, I’d teach compassion. I know I still have a lot to learn in this area, but hey, let’s all learn together!

Now the rules
Leave me a comment saying 'interview me please'.
I will respond by asking you five questions here on my blog (not the same questions you see here!) You will update your blog/site with the answers to the questions
You will include this explanation and an offer to interview someone else in the same post
When others comment asking to be interviewed, you will ask them five questions

just for practice

2005-07-31T22:45:00.000-06:00

This weekend I went to the zoo. But unlike a normal visit where I go alone or take my sister, Vicky, this time I had three kids in tow.

Yes, three.

Age 7 and under.

As we were sitting in the bank drive thru, Jake, the oldest, asked me if I was practicing to be a mom. While that wasn't my intent in offering to take them, it turned out to be good practice. And also a great reminder of why I don't want kids yet (and as Jake pointed out, I first have to get married and THEN I can have kids).

Anyway. So I take Jake, 7, Will, 4 and Kayla, 1, to the zoo. With Kayla along I also needed the stroller, which Will can sit on if he gets tired as well. Now, I'm used to keeping track of Vicky, of dragging her up the hills, telling her to hurry up and all that, but three able-bodied kids are a bit more work.

First stop, the giraffes. We bought crackers and found a nice open spot. Jake loved it, Will fed one cracker then decided he didn't like that and Kayla had a ball. She squealed and giggled. Every time she spotted an animal she would squeal. I have to admit, you see the zoo differently when you take small children.

We also stopped at the petting zoo, where Kayla discovered goats (and petted them with her feet, which delighted her to no end). She was not so pleased when I stuck her now dirty feet into the cool, soapy water. Thankfully, she likes me and it was soon forgotten. Will got to see hippos but is convinced they don't do anything and Jake got to see the white lion, which he kept calling a tiger.

By the time we got through everything we didn't have time for lunch. So, like any parent, I went through the drive thru at Mickey D's and got us all kids meals.

I think a good time was had by all and Shelly got the walls of her bedroom painted while we were gone.

So, I had fun practicing to be a mommy. I figure that practice makes perfect so I'd better practice a lot.

Hope your weekend was fun.

nowhere to run

2005-07-29T13:10:00.000-06:00

It's a sad statement that a person's home is no longer their refuge. It's true.

Take last night, for instance.

Nathan and I had just returned from a yummy dinner at Red Robin. I had finally remembered that I needed to fill up the windshield wiper fluid on my car so I was in the driveway, pouring blue liquid into my car when I hear "Happy Thursday, " booming from behind my vehicle.

I know my car can't talk so I peeked around the hood to see a guy not just passing by but sauntering up the driveway.

Advise, run away if someone says "happy Thursday" to you.

This man proceeded to tell Nathan and I about the wonderful organic cleaner he was selling. He sprayed it on Nathan's shoe, my car, the driveway, dad's truck, anywhere he could find. I wanted to run away but that is considered rude in our society and I don't want to be rude (plus I had a strong feeling that he would follow me into the house) so I listened. It took more than it should have to convince him to go away. He wasted at least 20 minutes if not more of my evening. And then Nathan says that another guy selling the same product had stopped by earlier in the week. Poor Nathan is too nice... and he had to listen to it all again!

We have gotten rid of the pesky telemarketers, it's time to focus our attention on door-to-door annoyances. I'm thinking of buying a doormat that says "We've found God, we gave at the office and we don't care about the rest." For those that don't get the subtle message, I'll add a sign on the door that says "those that fail to heed the doormat will be dealt with by our enforcement officers, Smith & Wesson."

Think it will help?

a series of shopping events

2005-07-26T22:55:00.000-06:00

Last night I went shopping. I had a purpose, to buy shorts for our upcoming camping trip. Oh to be the sort that can shop for one item and leave it at that. I am not that type of shopper.

First, I had to have Nathan meet me at the mall because I left my next book of checks at home and had to pay a bill at work with my last one. So he and dad drove up to the mall to meet me for dinner, which I paid for.

Then, after parting company, I headed to my favorite store, CJ Banks. Between the food court and CJ Banks sits Bath and Body Works. Since I was working on finishing my butterscotch dipped cone and I knew I couldn't enter my favorite clothes store with it, I ducked into B&BW.

There, I found my favorite body wash (Tutti Dulci Lemon Meringue) on sale for half price. Oh joy of joys!

I bought two.

Total, not including dinner, $12.

Ice cream cone finished I head downstairs to CJ Banks. I am sad to say that they did not have shorts. Well, they had one style that was cute but also not on sale. I don't buy anything there that isn't on sale. I can't afford their regular prices. So no shorts.

Disappointed, I walked out and what do I see across the way but Hallmark. I had been going through my stash of cards last week and had noticed it was thin. So into Hallmark I go.

Now, I know what you are thinking. How much trouble can you get into in a card store.

A lot.

I found 14 Fresh Ink cards that I just had to have (and I even put some back, be proud of me!). Some were perfect for hanging in my cube at work, others would just fit a friend or be a good one to keep on hand. 14.

Total at Hallmark, $24. Trip total, not including dinner, $36.

And you can't get out of that part of the mall without seeing and passing Borders. Because it had been a long time since I've been in a bookstore (and even longer since I've bought a book), I decided to stroll through on my way out.

In Borders I found the next Thursday Next novel which I've been waiting for, and a cute little stamp kit that was on sale.

Total at Borders, $16. Trip total, not including dinner, $52

And I didn't even have shorts yet.

Due to the fact that I was still without shorts, and the fact that I wasn't ready to head home, I left the mall and went to Wally World. There are few better places to kill time than at a Walmart. Thankfully, they had shorts. Cute shorts, shorts in many styles, shorts on sale, shorts that fit and came with belts. Even a pair of pink shorts!

I found four pairs that fit my need. I was very good at Walmart and did not buy any movies, stationery, candy, bird food or any of the other items I thought about. Just the shorts.

Total at Walmart, $32. Trip total, not including dinner, $84.

How is it I can intend to shop for one item, spend less that $40 and yet come home with four bags full of stuff is beyond me. Had I skipped dinner and gone to Walmart first, I might have saved myself 50 some bucks.

I think I need Shoppers Anon.

hot, hot, hot

2005-07-20T23:14:00.000-06:00

I'm talking about the weather, what else would I be talking about?

It's hot tonight. I should have known it wouldn't cool down when the bank sign was still reporting 91 degrees at 8:30 PM. That is just not normal. Not for Colorado Springs at least.

I finished training tonight for the tutoring. If all goes well I'll meet with my learner on Friday. If not, I'll give her one more chance and then on to the next one. I don't want to be hasty, but with over 40 people waiting for a tutor it's a game of you snooze you lose. This gal sounds really sweet and motivated so I'm praying it works out.

Speaking of working out, there is more in life that I'm watching to see how it works out. The whole peace corp thing is really stirring in me. If I had $8000 to cover everything in my life, I'd sign up today. I've been blindsided by confirmations yet it's not quite time. Hate that.

Okay, I'm really on the computer to send myself my novel so I can print it tomorrow at work. I'm meeting with Sarah tomorrow and she is one of my first readers and I told her I'd have a copy ready. That means I actually should write the last 1000 words or so but we'll see if that happens. Things have been so busy lately that I'm not always sure if I'm coming or going. Crazy.

Hope you are keeping cool somewhere in the world tonight.

a random sampling

2005-07-18T21:01:00.000-06:00

In no particular order, some thoughts and happenings of my day.

* Received the wrong version of a movie I ordered specifically because they said it was WS.
* had a yummy biscuit and some gravy for breakfast, the best meal of the day so far.
* had a sponsor threaten to disregard our rules and show up at his child's house (he got sent to my supervisor and is he going to get it!)
* shared Jelly Belly's with Dara.
* forgot to take my morning break and it was 15 minutes till lunch time when I remembered.
* got an email from Jessica (okay, so it was sent this weekend but I hadn't really read it yet).
NOTE: Jessica is the student in the Philippines that I corresponded with for three years, she recently graduated and we are now corresponding on our own. She's wonderful!
* thought about going to a movie tonight but couldn't find one I really really really had to see.
* let Pippin (my bird) fly around the room, he only hit the mirror once.
* thought about working on finishing the very last bit of my novel, may happen yet.

Nothing exciting there, I know, but welcome to my world!

my faint heart beats

2005-07-17T21:45:00.000-06:00

I have a new love.

This would be number three on the list now.

I haven't given up my first love, but I was disappointed that Jack apparently is leaving the show and the team may not be together! Number two is showing great promise but I did miss all of last season and it's not on dvd yet.

But be still my heart.

When I first saw the previews for The 4400, I was intrigued. But as usual, I was far too busy to actually watch the show and too scattered to remember to record it. So it came and went like most shows that sound interesting.

Then I found the dvd for season one at Walmart. It was only $15! I bought it. Last night, I stuck in the first disk. It didn't take long. They had me hook, line and sinker.

What I think attracts me so much is that the characters are compelling. There are all these people (4400 to be exact) that have been missing. Some for years, some for months. All just disappeared. Then they come back. But they haven't aged a day, don't remember a lick about where or when they have been, and the world has no idea what to do with them.

After the first episode, each episode focuses on one retunee but also keeps up with the story line of a handful of main characters. The story lines are well written, the characters are believable and the acting is great.

I stayed up until almost 4 am watching! I would have watched the whole season but I couldn't keep my eyes open any longer. I finished today. I think I'm going through withdrawal already.

And season two started back in June so now I have to wait until IT comes out on dvd.

Love is a crazy thing indeed.

taking my time

2005-07-14T23:00:00.000-06:00

I'm glad to report that one wall (the biggest one, I might add) and the two small walls by the door in my soon-to-be-room are now a lovely purple. Once I get the rest of the room painted I'll put up some pictures. It all depends on when dad's stuff can be moved. He's a paticular sort of guy so there is not much I can move without his say-so or okay.

Tomorrow night I meet with the gal that I've been matched with for English tutoring. If we decide we can stand each other and work together, I'll start tutoring her next week. Her name is Kyong and she's from Korea. She sounds really nice (we talked last night on the phone) and she was thrilled to hear from me. I am praying she'll be motivated to learn. That makes all the difference. Wish me luck!

The weekend is almost upon us. While I'll be putting in a few hours at work I hope to also visit the zoo, maybe with Vicky. Nothing like a trip to see these guys to cheer a person up!

Maybe, just maybe, I'll update this weekend.

Happy Friday!

stealing genius

2005-07-14T00:20:00.000-06:00

You know I can't pass up a survey, especially one that had some different sorts of questions. I stole this one from my friend at Chez la laquet! . She has a lovely site, go visit (after you read my list, of course!)

There was no 17 so I had to add a question. Enjoy!

--UNIQUE--
1. Nervous Habits : twisting my hair
2. Are you double jointed : no
3. Can you roll your tongue : yes
4. Can you raise one eyebrow at a time : no, I don't think so
5. Can you blow spit bubbles : no
6. Can you cross your eyes : only unintentionally
7. Tattoos : no
8. Piercing : just ears
9. Do you make your bed daily : normally

-- CLOTHES --
10. Which shoe goes on first : makes no difference
11. Speaking of shoes, have you ever thrown one at anyone? : at a cat, ys, at a person, maybe
12. On the average, how much money do you carry : about $20
13. What jewelry do you wear 24/7 : a ring on my righthand
14. Favorite piece of clothing : my pink shirt from OldNavy

-- FOOD --
15. Do you twirl your spaghetti or cut it : twirl
16. Have you ever eaten Spam : if I did it was under protest
17. Do you use ketchup on your eggs: no
18. How many cereals in your cabinet : just one,Vanillaa Creme mini wheats, I don't normally do cereal
19. What's your favorite beverage : currently a watermelon limeaid from Red Robin, also love coca tea from Peru and mt. dew.
20. What's your favorite fast food restaurant : Chick-Fil-A
21. Do you cook : yes

-- GROOMING --
22. How often do you brush your teeth : as often as needed
23. Hair drying method : naturally by the air
24. Have you ever coloured/highlighted your hair : yes

-- MANNERS --
25. Do you swear : hell no, I mean, every once in a while
26. Do you ever spit : if needed, but not for just any old reason

-- FAVOURITE --

27. Animal :elephants, tigers, and my kitty and my bird
28. Food : Kraft Mac & Cheese
29. Month : October
30. Day : Tuesday
31. Cartoon : Veggie Tales
32. Shoe Brand : I love my Teva's
33. Subject in school : English and History
34. Color : purple
35. Sport : I'm not into sports
36. TV show : StarGate: SG1 and StarGate Atlantis
37. Thing to do in the spring : listen to the rain
38. Thing to do in the summer : go to the grocery store and appreciate the air conditioning
39. Thing to do in the autumn : play in the leaves
40. Thing to do in the winter : make snow angels

-- IN AND AROUND --
41. In the CD player : Tribute to Rich Mullins: Awesome God
42. Person you talk most on the phone with : my sister, Carin (for length)
43. Reading : I just finished a book by a friend, Doug Hirt, Flight to Eden
44. Do you regularly check yourself out in store windows/mirrors : Only my hair
45. What color is your bedroom : will be purple with pink and green highlights
46. Do you use an alarm clock : yes
47. Window seat or aisle : window for short trips, aisle on long

-- dumb --
48. What's your sleeping position : on my side (either) with leg on a pillow and a pillow at my back (what will happen if I ever get married I can't guess)
49. Even in hot weather do you use a blanket : yes, a light one
50. Do you snore : only if I'm congested
51. Do you sleepwalk : no
52. Do you talk in your sleep : not that I've been told
53. Do you sleep with stuffed animals : Didn't you read about the pillows?
54. How about with the light on : no, and all other light must be blocked, I've even had to cover my alarm clock for being too bright
55. Do you fall asleep with the TV or radio on : only if I'm really tired
56. Last interesting person you met : I had a wonderful conversation with a man from Columbia on the bus at Macchu Picchu, he spoke only Spanish and mine is limited, but we had a lovely conversation despite the language barrier.

weekend review

2005-07-10T23:25:00.000-06:00

Well, I didn't try to blow myself up this weekend, so I guess it was better than last.

Living back at home is a challenge... I'm praying dad finds a place in WY soon because I just don't think he is ever going to get it. I'm 27, not 17, and I'm paying rent. I love my dad dearly, I just need my own space and my own rules.

Had lunch Friday with Liz, the drama director at church. It was good to see her again and talk. She's working on a new book and I will get to help!! Fun stuff. I also read a book by a family friend, Douglas Hirt, this weekend. It's a new genre for him. Normally, he writes westerns, and they aren't bad. This one is more what I call historical fiction with a Christian twist. It's going to be a series and the first book is about Noah's parents and how they are sent to the Garden of Eden for Noah to be born. Not bad at all!

I also had a short talk with my boss on Friday afternoon. Pray that all goes well and they make my move to her team official. Our test team was extended for a month, but she has openings on her team so we are trying to get me moved there "for real". I've gotten the approval of my "old" boss, the new boss and their boss, so we just need the director. This is the guy that doesn't like me so I'm praying he won't cause trouble. But my dear sweet new boss said she would fight for me, which is nice to know.

I didn't leave the house today at all. I stayed in jammies all day (but for the record, I put on clean jammies after my shower). I needed a day like today, a slow, reading, hanging out sort of day. I hope you all had a good weekend as well!

Later.

from the heart

2005-07-08T20:40:00.000-06:00

To all those in the United Kingdom who were impacted by the recent bombings, my heart goes out to you along with my prayers. We know how it feels and we hurt with you in these days. May God be your refuge.