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??
Tuesday, August 30, 2005
Monday, August 29, 2005
what i did on my summer vacation
(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.
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.
Friday, August 26, 2005
cause and effect
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?
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?
Monday, August 22, 2005
back in business
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.
Dara and I went to see Red Eye tonight. Very good flick.
Hope you had a good week last week.
Bye now.
Friday, August 12, 2005
out of office
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.
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.
Wednesday, August 10, 2005
did I say that
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.
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.
Monday, August 08, 2005
more questions, more answers
Here is yet another survey that I found at Mommy Matters. Have fun.
What I was doing 10 years ago: That’s a long time ago. I was in high school, starting my senior year. Working at Chick-Fil-A and involved in leadership for youth group.
5 years ago: Was in college, getting ready to start my final year, studying for the senior comp exam (a nightmare that I took in October of that year, and passed!). Working at Compassion filling orders for artists and volunteers.
1 year ago: Finally out of school and working, still, at Compassion. By this time I was on the phones. I was also getting ready to take over the drama team and hold auditions for my first play (which was canceled since not enough people tried out).
Yesterday: I was hobbling around the house, fixing dinner for the family and wishing I could read my new book.
5 snacks I enjoy: oreos and milk
queso and chips
popcorn
cottage cheese and pears
eggo waffles
5 songs I know all the words to: This Kiss (Faith Hill)
Rainy Days and Mondays (Carpenters)
Everybody has a Water Buffalo (Veggie Tales)
It’s Not Easy (from Pete’s Dragon)
He Reigns (by the Newsboys)
5 things I would do with $100 million: Design a house around a zoo and build it.
Travel to every continent, spend several months on each.
Make a movie.
Own a library.
Go to space.
5 Locations I want to run away to: Tanzania, Peru, Antarctica, Nepal and Paris.
5 Things I like doing: Reading a favorite book.
Watching a great movie.
Cooking/Baking (especially if I don’t have to clean up).
Relaxing in my hammock.
Hanging out with my buddy, Will.
5 Bad habits I have: Not closing the cupboard doors all the way.
Saying what I think.
Calling people “what’s-her-butt” or “what’s-his-butt”.
Wolfing down Skor bars when I get them.
Yelling at other drives (only when they can’t hear me).
5 Things I would never wear again: Parachute pants, enough said.
5 TV shoes I like: Stargate, Stargate Atlantis, M.A.S.H., The 4400 (I only have 4, sorry!).
5 Biggest joys of the moment: I have fudge for dessert.
I can see birds flying outside.
I’m on my lunch break, so not working.
I got to sleep on my own bed last night.
Did I mention I get to eat fudge??
5 Favorite toys: My new split keyboard (at work).
GameCube
Cameras (digital and SLR)
Crazy Aaron’s Thinking Putty
Laptop
What I was doing 10 years ago: That’s a long time ago. I was in high school, starting my senior year. Working at Chick-Fil-A and involved in leadership for youth group.
5 years ago: Was in college, getting ready to start my final year, studying for the senior comp exam (a nightmare that I took in October of that year, and passed!). Working at Compassion filling orders for artists and volunteers.
1 year ago: Finally out of school and working, still, at Compassion. By this time I was on the phones. I was also getting ready to take over the drama team and hold auditions for my first play (which was canceled since not enough people tried out).
Yesterday: I was hobbling around the house, fixing dinner for the family and wishing I could read my new book.
5 snacks I enjoy: oreos and milk
queso and chips
popcorn
cottage cheese and pears
eggo waffles
5 songs I know all the words to: This Kiss (Faith Hill)
Rainy Days and Mondays (Carpenters)
Everybody has a Water Buffalo (Veggie Tales)
It’s Not Easy (from Pete’s Dragon)
He Reigns (by the Newsboys)
5 things I would do with $100 million: Design a house around a zoo and build it.
Travel to every continent, spend several months on each.
Make a movie.
Own a library.
Go to space.
5 Locations I want to run away to: Tanzania, Peru, Antarctica, Nepal and Paris.
5 Things I like doing: Reading a favorite book.
Watching a great movie.
Cooking/Baking (especially if I don’t have to clean up).
Relaxing in my hammock.
Hanging out with my buddy, Will.
5 Bad habits I have: Not closing the cupboard doors all the way.
Saying what I think.
Calling people “what’s-her-butt” or “what’s-his-butt”.
Wolfing down Skor bars when I get them.
Yelling at other drives (only when they can’t hear me).
5 Things I would never wear again: Parachute pants, enough said.
5 TV shoes I like: Stargate, Stargate Atlantis, M.A.S.H., The 4400 (I only have 4, sorry!).
5 Biggest joys of the moment: I have fudge for dessert.
I can see birds flying outside.
I’m on my lunch break, so not working.
I got to sleep on my own bed last night.
Did I mention I get to eat fudge??
5 Favorite toys: My new split keyboard (at work).
GameCube
Cameras (digital and SLR)
Crazy Aaron’s Thinking Putty
Laptop
Tuesday, August 02, 2005
the interview game
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
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
Sunday, July 31, 2005
just for practice
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.
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.
Friday, July 29, 2005
nowhere to run
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?
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?
Tuesday, July 26, 2005
a series of shopping events
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.
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.
Wednesday, July 20, 2005
hot, hot, hot
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.
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.
Monday, July 18, 2005
a random sampling
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!
* 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!
Sunday, July 17, 2005
my faint heart beats
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.
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.
Thursday, July 14, 2005
taking my time
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!
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
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.
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.
Sunday, July 10, 2005
weekend review
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.
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.
Friday, July 08, 2005
from the heart
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.
sleep tight
After five days of not sleeping, I finally got a good night of sleep.
Granted, by the time I was ready for bed I was tired enough that I should have slept like a log. I've been sleeping on a twin (not my queen, which is in the garage) and I'm not sure what I was thinking when I bought it years ago. Apparently I was into torture. The bed is not just firm (which is a must) but it is also rock hard. I bought a foam mattress pad Sunday, which helped, but not enough.
Before we continue, I want to state for the record that I'm very aware that I'm an overly sensitive sleeper. Things must be perfect for me to get sleep. Thankfully, I'm aware of what needs to happen for perfect sleep.
Let's continue.
I figured that I would run to Target after dinner to pick up a second foam pad which would provide the additional cradling I need. So off I went. I found what I wanted quickly and went home. I opened the bag, pulled the foam out and unrolled it.
Instead of finding a nice perfect, even foam, what I found a pad that was about an inch thick at one end (the end you could see in the bag) but less than 1/4th of an inch thick most everywhere else. I thought I might just use the extra camping pad for the night and return the poorly cut item to the store. I unrolled that only to find two spiders (one dead, one alive, but only for a moment) inside. Since I have a thing against spiders in my bed, or even the idea of spiders having been in my bed, that idea was out.
So, I rolled the Target pad back up, stuffed it half way into the bag (you try to get those things BACK in the bag!) and went back to the store.
Then it was off to Wally World to find a pad like the first one I bought. There, I found one slightly more expensive but better quality so I bought that. Then I found sheets, 300 count, that were very affordable, so I got those as well. Sheets are another one of those things that I'm picky about.
Finally, at 9:45, I got home. After opening, unrolling and remaking the bed with new sheets, I was ready for bed.
And I slept well.
Thank goodness for a good night of sleep.
Granted, by the time I was ready for bed I was tired enough that I should have slept like a log. I've been sleeping on a twin (not my queen, which is in the garage) and I'm not sure what I was thinking when I bought it years ago. Apparently I was into torture. The bed is not just firm (which is a must) but it is also rock hard. I bought a foam mattress pad Sunday, which helped, but not enough.
Before we continue, I want to state for the record that I'm very aware that I'm an overly sensitive sleeper. Things must be perfect for me to get sleep. Thankfully, I'm aware of what needs to happen for perfect sleep.
Let's continue.
I figured that I would run to Target after dinner to pick up a second foam pad which would provide the additional cradling I need. So off I went. I found what I wanted quickly and went home. I opened the bag, pulled the foam out and unrolled it.
Instead of finding a nice perfect, even foam, what I found a pad that was about an inch thick at one end (the end you could see in the bag) but less than 1/4th of an inch thick most everywhere else. I thought I might just use the extra camping pad for the night and return the poorly cut item to the store. I unrolled that only to find two spiders (one dead, one alive, but only for a moment) inside. Since I have a thing against spiders in my bed, or even the idea of spiders having been in my bed, that idea was out.
So, I rolled the Target pad back up, stuffed it half way into the bag (you try to get those things BACK in the bag!) and went back to the store.
Then it was off to Wally World to find a pad like the first one I bought. There, I found one slightly more expensive but better quality so I bought that. Then I found sheets, 300 count, that were very affordable, so I got those as well. Sheets are another one of those things that I'm picky about.
Finally, at 9:45, I got home. After opening, unrolling and remaking the bed with new sheets, I was ready for bed.
And I slept well.
Thank goodness for a good night of sleep.
Tuesday, July 05, 2005
and that's the reason why
I try to keep my posts here fun, thoughtful or full of ranting. Today I have a story that may rival Miss Pottenger's menthol story.
There is usually a good reason why I do or don't do things. The hardest one to explain is the "sixth sense" reason, but it is usually the best reason of all.
Case in point.
I have a rule that I don't light the outdoor grill. I don't. Ever since the click starter broke and it has to be lit manually, I don't do it. My father and brother make fun of me. They complain when I make them light the thing. I don't mind cooking on it, but I just don't light it.
But yesterday, I broke my own rule. Dad and Nathan were working on making a screen door for the back bedroom (a whole other story) and neither were in the best of moods, so I decided that if steaks were going to be cooked it would up to me.
So, I went out back, turned the little knob to light and leaned down to fit the lighter into the small whole under the grill and snap.
Next thing I knew I have charcoaled pine needles in my hair and I'm pretty sure I singed a few of the hairs in my eyebrows (nothing serious, but they were a bit rough). The top of my lip stung pretty bad, too.
After making sure I wasn't on fire, I went back in the house, tossed the lighter back to it's place on the stove and went to the bathroom to asses the damage. I had to wash my hair to get the lingering scent of burnt pine needles out.
And I renewed my vow not to light that grill again.
I still haven't figured out why we have burnt pine needles on the charcoal in the grill anyhow, but we do... and they flew.
Yeah, that's what sort of punishment I get when I don't listen to my sixth sense. Any fun stories out there about what happens to you when you ignore that feeling in your gut??
There is usually a good reason why I do or don't do things. The hardest one to explain is the "sixth sense" reason, but it is usually the best reason of all.
Case in point.
I have a rule that I don't light the outdoor grill. I don't. Ever since the click starter broke and it has to be lit manually, I don't do it. My father and brother make fun of me. They complain when I make them light the thing. I don't mind cooking on it, but I just don't light it.
But yesterday, I broke my own rule. Dad and Nathan were working on making a screen door for the back bedroom (a whole other story) and neither were in the best of moods, so I decided that if steaks were going to be cooked it would up to me.
So, I went out back, turned the little knob to light and leaned down to fit the lighter into the small whole under the grill and snap.
Next thing I knew I have charcoaled pine needles in my hair and I'm pretty sure I singed a few of the hairs in my eyebrows (nothing serious, but they were a bit rough). The top of my lip stung pretty bad, too.
After making sure I wasn't on fire, I went back in the house, tossed the lighter back to it's place on the stove and went to the bathroom to asses the damage. I had to wash my hair to get the lingering scent of burnt pine needles out.
And I renewed my vow not to light that grill again.
I still haven't figured out why we have burnt pine needles on the charcoal in the grill anyhow, but we do... and they flew.
Yeah, that's what sort of punishment I get when I don't listen to my sixth sense. Any fun stories out there about what happens to you when you ignore that feeling in your gut??
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