I got this in an email this week. As you may know, my DH has Celiac Disease, or an intolerance to gluten found in wheat, rye and barley. Untreated this disease can lead to major weight loss, osteoporosis, cancer and death. Some studies say that 2M+ people in the US have this disease, yet many don't know it. Doctors misdiagnose due to sometimes a lack of many symptoms or a lack of awareness.
I love Uno's pizza, we're looking forward to trying the Gluten Free version!
ACDA & Uno Chicago Grill Partner for Awareness
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Awareness Month events abound. Walks, runs, golf, cooking and . . . GF
PIZZA! That's right. What better way to celebrate awareness month than
going out and sharing a pie with friends.
From May 25 - 31st, Uno Chicago GrillR will host a nationwide Dough Rai$er.
To participate go to: www.unos.com/ACDA . Download the voucher with the ACDA logo and take it to your local Uno Chicago Grill location. Twenty percent of sales generated from those who participate will go to support celiac awareness.
Don't want to wait until May 25th for a GF Pizza. Go to www.unos.com/coupons/glutenfree and download a $1 off coupon. Not a pizza fan? The gluten-free menu has a number of wonderful options.
Mark your calendar now to eat at Uno Chicago GrillR the week of May 25th - And don't forget the voucher!
Beth Hillson,
President,
American Celiac Disease Alliance
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Monday, May 11, 2009
RIP Gene
My sister's soulmate passed away May 5. We are all completely devastated, as this was completely unexpected. Gene was a special, giving person. Gruff biker on the outside, soft heart and soul on the inside. His funeral was attended by over 120 people, including at least 50 members of his biker club. Watching them roll in and out was amazing.
Please keep Michelle in your thoughts and prayers. She has never lived alone in her life, and is really struggling with the ramifications of Gene's death.
I've been in Florida since I found out last week. Caught the first plane (literally) that I could from home. Don & kids followed by car. We are heading back home on Tuesday night. That is really when it will get hard for my sister and my dad too.
Thanks for your support.
Please keep Michelle in your thoughts and prayers. She has never lived alone in her life, and is really struggling with the ramifications of Gene's death.
I've been in Florida since I found out last week. Caught the first plane (literally) that I could from home. Don & kids followed by car. We are heading back home on Tuesday night. That is really when it will get hard for my sister and my dad too.
Thanks for your support.
Tuesday, May 05, 2009
Jessica Hardy Suspension lowered to 1 year
This article was published in Swimming World Magazine on May 4, 2009. Basically the gist is that the supplement she was taking was contaminated, apparently when it was packaged or produced. We deal with this issue when looking for foods to avoid in an allergy situation. This is why so many foods say they are packaged in a facility that packages other food containing xyz (allergen like nuts, wheat, eggs, etc). The FDA does not monitor supplements like it does foods, so there is no such warning for supplements. This is a sticky situation, because in the end the athlete is responsible for what they consume. And at this level of athletics, they are pushing their body beyond normal levels, thereby making a choice of supplements (legal) an easy one. The world championships are in Rome from July 18 to August 2. I wonder if we'll see Jessica swimming the last days.
LOS ANGELES, California, May 4. ACCORDING to a press release sent out by Jessica Hardy's legal representation, Hardy's suspension for a positive test for Clenbuterol has been reduced to one year. Hardy tested positive for the banned substance at the 2008 U.S. Olympic Trials in Omaha, Neb., setting off a firestorm of controversy regarding who would replace her on the U.S. Olympic roster.
The press release states that the American Arbitration Association (AAA) found that Hardy's positive test came from a contaminated supplement sample.
Additionally, should Hardy's one-year suspension fall under the auspices of the new rule where any doping ban for longer than six months would preclude Hardy from competing at the 2012 London Games, the AAA would consider further limiting the suspension.
This is the second high profile doping case for the U.S. ending in a contaminated supplement. Kicker Vencill once drew a four-year suspension, later reduced to two years, before winning a lawsuit to prove his innocence of intent to dope.
Here is the full press release from lawyer Howard Jacobs:
Los Angeles (May 4, 2009) – The American Arbitration Association today issued its decision suspending Jessica Hardy from competition from August 1, 2008 through July 31, 2009 for her inadvertent use of a contaminated supplement, thereby allowing her to return to competition this summer. The positive test occurred at the 2008 U.S. Olympic Trials, where Jessica Hardy qualified for the U.S. Olympic team in four events. As a result of the positive test, Jessica Hardy voluntarily withdrew from the Olympic team.
In its decision, the AAA Panel found that a longer sanction would be disproportionate to the facts of the case, relying in part on the following:
-The arbitrators found that Jessica Hardy's positive test was caused by a contaminated Advocare Arginine Extreme supplement.
-Jessica Hardy received personal assurances from Advocare regarding the purity of its supplements.
-The arbitrators found that under all of the circumstances, Jessica Hardy should receive the shortest possible suspension allowed under the rules
-The arbitrators also considered the possible application of a new rule of the International Olympic Committee ("IOC"), which could potentially preclude Jessica Hardy from competing at the 2012 Olympic Games, since her penalty is longer than 6 months. The arbitrators stated that such a result would be "grossly disproportionate," and stated that they would retain jurisdiction to reconsider the length of the penalty if the IOC did not waive the application of its new rule to Jessica Hardy.
In responding to the AAA decision, Jessica Hardy stated as follows:
"I am extremely happy that the Arbitration Panel was persuaded by my scientific proof of supplement contamination, and that they believed me when I told them that I never have and never will use performance enhancing drugs. I look forward to returning to competition as soon as possible and proving that my prior successes, including at the Olympic Trials, were achieved solely through hard work and discipline, with no shortcuts. The past year, including missing the 2008 Olympic Games, has been heartbreaking, the most difficult year of my life. It was made more tolerable by the numerous expressions of support I received from teammates, competitors, and fans all over the world, for which I will always be grateful.
I look forward to again representing my country, and will prepare for the upcoming season with the utmost determination."
USA Swimming released the following statement regarding the ruling:
We are glad that this situation has been resolved. Jessica has served a significant penalty and has taken responsibility for her actions, which were ruled unintentional. The importance in being diligent in following the anti-doping rules cannot be overstated, and this case should serve as a stern reminder to all athletes to take extreme care with everything they put into their bodies.
USADA also released the following press release:
Colorado Springs, Colo. (May 4, 2009) – An independent, three-member American Arbitration Association/Court of Arbitration for Sport (AAA/CAS) panel issued its decision today in the case of U.S. Swimmer Jessica Hardy, from a positive drug test during last year's U.S. Olympic Trials.
On July 4, 2008, Ms. Hardy tested positive for the anabolic agent, clenbuterol. Following proceedings, instituted pursuant to the USADA Protocol on August 1, 2008, Ms. Hardy voluntarily withdrew from the 2008 U.S. Olympic Team, reserving her right to seek a reduction to her period of ineligibility.
The AAA/CAS panel heard evidence in January and March of this year concerning Ms. Hardy's claim that her supplements were contaminated with clenbuterol. Ms. Hardy fully accepted responsibility for her negligence in taking supplements in light of education and warnings provided by USADA regarding the associated risks. The AAA/CAS panel credited Ms. Hardy's evidence of contamination and determined that she had exercised sufficient diligence in her investigation of the supplements to be entitled to a reduction of her period of ineligibility. The AAA/CAS panel assigned a one-year period of ineligibility to conclude on July 31, 2009.
The panel also retained jurisdiction for possible consideration at a later date of the potential impact of the International Olympic Committee's (IOC) Rule 45 on Ms. Hardy. The IOC's Rule 45, effective July 1, 2008, prohibits an athlete who has been sanctioned by more than six months from competing in the next two Olympic Games.
In an effort to aid athletes, as well as all support team members such as parents and coaches, in understanding the rules applicable to them, USADA provides comprehensive instruction on its website on the testing process and prohibited substances, how to obtain permission to use a necessary medication, and the risks and dangers of taking supplements as well as performance-enhancing and recreational drugs. In addition, the agency manages a drug reference hotline, conducts educational sessions with National Governing Bodies and their athletes, and proactively distributes a multitude of educational materials, such as the Guide to Prohibited Substances and Methods, easy-reference wallet cards, periodic newsletters, and protocol and policy reference documentation.
USADA is responsible for the testing and results management process for athletes in the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Movement, and is equally dedicated to preserving the integrity of sport through research initiatives and educational programs.
LOS ANGELES, California, May 4. ACCORDING to a press release sent out by Jessica Hardy's legal representation, Hardy's suspension for a positive test for Clenbuterol has been reduced to one year. Hardy tested positive for the banned substance at the 2008 U.S. Olympic Trials in Omaha, Neb., setting off a firestorm of controversy regarding who would replace her on the U.S. Olympic roster.
The press release states that the American Arbitration Association (AAA) found that Hardy's positive test came from a contaminated supplement sample.
Additionally, should Hardy's one-year suspension fall under the auspices of the new rule where any doping ban for longer than six months would preclude Hardy from competing at the 2012 London Games, the AAA would consider further limiting the suspension.
This is the second high profile doping case for the U.S. ending in a contaminated supplement. Kicker Vencill once drew a four-year suspension, later reduced to two years, before winning a lawsuit to prove his innocence of intent to dope.
Here is the full press release from lawyer Howard Jacobs:
Los Angeles (May 4, 2009) – The American Arbitration Association today issued its decision suspending Jessica Hardy from competition from August 1, 2008 through July 31, 2009 for her inadvertent use of a contaminated supplement, thereby allowing her to return to competition this summer. The positive test occurred at the 2008 U.S. Olympic Trials, where Jessica Hardy qualified for the U.S. Olympic team in four events. As a result of the positive test, Jessica Hardy voluntarily withdrew from the Olympic team.
In its decision, the AAA Panel found that a longer sanction would be disproportionate to the facts of the case, relying in part on the following:
-The arbitrators found that Jessica Hardy's positive test was caused by a contaminated Advocare Arginine Extreme supplement.
-Jessica Hardy received personal assurances from Advocare regarding the purity of its supplements.
-The arbitrators found that under all of the circumstances, Jessica Hardy should receive the shortest possible suspension allowed under the rules
-The arbitrators also considered the possible application of a new rule of the International Olympic Committee ("IOC"), which could potentially preclude Jessica Hardy from competing at the 2012 Olympic Games, since her penalty is longer than 6 months. The arbitrators stated that such a result would be "grossly disproportionate," and stated that they would retain jurisdiction to reconsider the length of the penalty if the IOC did not waive the application of its new rule to Jessica Hardy.
In responding to the AAA decision, Jessica Hardy stated as follows:
"I am extremely happy that the Arbitration Panel was persuaded by my scientific proof of supplement contamination, and that they believed me when I told them that I never have and never will use performance enhancing drugs. I look forward to returning to competition as soon as possible and proving that my prior successes, including at the Olympic Trials, were achieved solely through hard work and discipline, with no shortcuts. The past year, including missing the 2008 Olympic Games, has been heartbreaking, the most difficult year of my life. It was made more tolerable by the numerous expressions of support I received from teammates, competitors, and fans all over the world, for which I will always be grateful.
I look forward to again representing my country, and will prepare for the upcoming season with the utmost determination."
USA Swimming released the following statement regarding the ruling:
We are glad that this situation has been resolved. Jessica has served a significant penalty and has taken responsibility for her actions, which were ruled unintentional. The importance in being diligent in following the anti-doping rules cannot be overstated, and this case should serve as a stern reminder to all athletes to take extreme care with everything they put into their bodies.
USADA also released the following press release:
Colorado Springs, Colo. (May 4, 2009) – An independent, three-member American Arbitration Association/Court of Arbitration for Sport (AAA/CAS) panel issued its decision today in the case of U.S. Swimmer Jessica Hardy, from a positive drug test during last year's U.S. Olympic Trials.
On July 4, 2008, Ms. Hardy tested positive for the anabolic agent, clenbuterol. Following proceedings, instituted pursuant to the USADA Protocol on August 1, 2008, Ms. Hardy voluntarily withdrew from the 2008 U.S. Olympic Team, reserving her right to seek a reduction to her period of ineligibility.
The AAA/CAS panel heard evidence in January and March of this year concerning Ms. Hardy's claim that her supplements were contaminated with clenbuterol. Ms. Hardy fully accepted responsibility for her negligence in taking supplements in light of education and warnings provided by USADA regarding the associated risks. The AAA/CAS panel credited Ms. Hardy's evidence of contamination and determined that she had exercised sufficient diligence in her investigation of the supplements to be entitled to a reduction of her period of ineligibility. The AAA/CAS panel assigned a one-year period of ineligibility to conclude on July 31, 2009.
The panel also retained jurisdiction for possible consideration at a later date of the potential impact of the International Olympic Committee's (IOC) Rule 45 on Ms. Hardy. The IOC's Rule 45, effective July 1, 2008, prohibits an athlete who has been sanctioned by more than six months from competing in the next two Olympic Games.
In an effort to aid athletes, as well as all support team members such as parents and coaches, in understanding the rules applicable to them, USADA provides comprehensive instruction on its website on the testing process and prohibited substances, how to obtain permission to use a necessary medication, and the risks and dangers of taking supplements as well as performance-enhancing and recreational drugs. In addition, the agency manages a drug reference hotline, conducts educational sessions with National Governing Bodies and their athletes, and proactively distributes a multitude of educational materials, such as the Guide to Prohibited Substances and Methods, easy-reference wallet cards, periodic newsletters, and protocol and policy reference documentation.
USADA is responsible for the testing and results management process for athletes in the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Movement, and is equally dedicated to preserving the integrity of sport through research initiatives and educational programs.
Thursday, April 09, 2009
I can't make you love me
After Allison on AI sang a cover, I looked around, and found this version. Love it more than Bonnie Raitt's version.
Video
Video
Monday, March 23, 2009
prayers and good thoughts please
Please lift up my young cousin in prayer. Jenae (pronounced Jen A) was in a ski accident in Colorado 1 week ago. She sustained serious injuries, including multiple facial fractures, a skull fracture, broken femur and tibia. She seemed "ok" on Monday after the accident, talking and whining about not having access to her cell phone, but has gotten worse as the week went on. She is now in sedation to keep her in a deep sleep as well as on a ventilator. After a long weekend of 100% oxygen but continued low oxygen saturation levels, her lungs seem to be healing, as more and more oxygen is getting into her bloodstream. She was supposed to have surgery on her leg, but they cancelled it because of the oxygen issue. Also we are very thankful that she had those facial fractures. Yeah, I know, thankful? It seemed that those fractures allowed some fluids to seep out of her brain that would have otherwise built up too much pressure (like Natalie Richardson), thereby saving her life! It doesn't seem that she has sustained any severe brain damage, but until they can bring her completely off the deep sedation medication, we won't know for sure.
So please pray (or think good thoughts) for Jenae, her mom Nancy (my cousin) and dad Kelly, and brother Nolan, who is stuck back home in Oklahoma trying to continue a normal life.
Thanks!
So please pray (or think good thoughts) for Jenae, her mom Nancy (my cousin) and dad Kelly, and brother Nolan, who is stuck back home in Oklahoma trying to continue a normal life.
Thanks!
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
End of season update
Yay! I have 3 weeks off of swim. Well, my kids do. And I don't have to drive carpool either!
Devon had a GREAT meet this weekend. He got 2 medals (4th in 1000 yd Free & 5th in 1650 yd Free), a 13th place finish in 200 yd Back, and several relay ribbons for 5th or 6th place. He swam personal best times throughout the meet. In fact on Thursday he swam the opening leg of the 4 x 200 yd relay, which counts as actual times, and got a best time in the 50 split, 100 split and 200 split! Then on Friday he swam the 200 yd Free individual event and bettered his time again! This was especially great, as he has been trying (and not succeeding) to get a personal best in that event since October!
We finally got home at 10pm on Sunday, and yesterday I was exhausted. Got some very good sleep last night, and am back to normal now, and believe it or not, looking forward to the next season, which starts on March 30.
Devon had a GREAT meet this weekend. He got 2 medals (4th in 1000 yd Free & 5th in 1650 yd Free), a 13th place finish in 200 yd Back, and several relay ribbons for 5th or 6th place. He swam personal best times throughout the meet. In fact on Thursday he swam the opening leg of the 4 x 200 yd relay, which counts as actual times, and got a best time in the 50 split, 100 split and 200 split! Then on Friday he swam the 200 yd Free individual event and bettered his time again! This was especially great, as he has been trying (and not succeeding) to get a personal best in that event since October!
We finally got home at 10pm on Sunday, and yesterday I was exhausted. Got some very good sleep last night, and am back to normal now, and believe it or not, looking forward to the next season, which starts on March 30.
Tuesday, March 03, 2009
March forth
Ok, it is a day early, but Buggy reminded me to MARCH FORTH tomorrow.
I'm done with winter. Now it can go away.
This weekend will be long, exhausting and fun. Swim Fast Devon!
I'm done with winter. Now it can go away.
This weekend will be long, exhausting and fun. Swim Fast Devon!
Monday, February 23, 2009
Swimming update
(So it appears that Marisa is done swimming for the short course season.) She didn't get any state qualifying times. No surprise there. The time standards were tightened up quite a bit, and she is in a higher and tougher age group since she turned 11. Her goal is to get back to State for the long course season, which runs April - July. There is a slight chance she might swim on a relay or 4, but only of several girls ranked above her opt out.
Update! Well, nevermind about Marisa being done! I got a phone call from her coach asking if she can be on a relay! Who Hoo! She is swimming the 200 Freestyle Relay on Saturday afternoon. I am so excited for her! I know it is crazy. We are driving 1 hour each way to Madison, plus spending the whole afternoon there, just to watch her swim 32 seconds in a 50 Freestyle. But this is such a positive experience! She is bonding more with her teammates, gets to share in a very special event! Plus she gets a tshirt and pizza party and the knowledge that she contributed. Even if it is on a C level relay, which will probably not score any points for the team. But who cares!
Devon on the other hand is swimming crazy right now. He has more than the maximum allowed individual qualifying times for 13 & Over State, so has had to choose which not to swim. Great situation to be in! He is swimming all the distance events, which are his strength, along with 100 Back, 200 Back and 200 Free. There are 10 boys in his age group who have qualified, so I'm not sure which relays he will be on. This meet is March 5-8, so theoretically we have a weekend off!
Our high school boys swam their state meet this past Saturday. It was a fun meet, even though they only came in 4th. Next year hopefully Devon will be there swimming!
Update! Well, nevermind about Marisa being done! I got a phone call from her coach asking if she can be on a relay! Who Hoo! She is swimming the 200 Freestyle Relay on Saturday afternoon. I am so excited for her! I know it is crazy. We are driving 1 hour each way to Madison, plus spending the whole afternoon there, just to watch her swim 32 seconds in a 50 Freestyle. But this is such a positive experience! She is bonding more with her teammates, gets to share in a very special event! Plus she gets a tshirt and pizza party and the knowledge that she contributed. Even if it is on a C level relay, which will probably not score any points for the team. But who cares!
Devon on the other hand is swimming crazy right now. He has more than the maximum allowed individual qualifying times for 13 & Over State, so has had to choose which not to swim. Great situation to be in! He is swimming all the distance events, which are his strength, along with 100 Back, 200 Back and 200 Free. There are 10 boys in his age group who have qualified, so I'm not sure which relays he will be on. This meet is March 5-8, so theoretically we have a weekend off!
Our high school boys swam their state meet this past Saturday. It was a fun meet, even though they only came in 4th. Next year hopefully Devon will be there swimming!
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Mood
Normally winter is a blah time for me. January is my least favorite month, for many reasons. First, my mom died Jan 30 (10 years ago, feels like yesterday), and also for work it is very busy and stressful time for me, getting year end taken care of. As a result, I usually get sick late Jan or early Feb. Last weekend I felt it coming, and started popping vitamin C, trying to get more sleep, etc. We spend the weekend at a swim meet, and I really think the humidity helped me! No more beginnings of a cold!
I've also noticed I've been in a really good mood lately. Someone at practice asked me if I ever stop smiling. So I thought about it, and realised this is what I do. I take one good thing that happens to me during the day, and take that feeling and keep nurturing it so that I stay in that good frame of mind. A good friend of mine told me not too long ago to stop being negative, that it isn't like me to be that way. That I need to get back to my optimistic side.
I'm glad that my positive self is back. Even in the midst of lots of negativity.
I've also noticed I've been in a really good mood lately. Someone at practice asked me if I ever stop smiling. So I thought about it, and realised this is what I do. I take one good thing that happens to me during the day, and take that feeling and keep nurturing it so that I stay in that good frame of mind. A good friend of mine told me not too long ago to stop being negative, that it isn't like me to be that way. That I need to get back to my optimistic side.
I'm glad that my positive self is back. Even in the midst of lots of negativity.
Tuesday, February 03, 2009
Vote for Buddy!
Please vote for my kitty Buddy as MVP Pet! I truly do need a new vacuum, as ours died.
Thanks!
Thanks!
Free breakfast!
So is Denny's really smaht, or just really desperate?
Did you see the ads during the Super Bowl? They are giving everyone a FREE Grand Slam (unfortunate name for a football game) between 6am - 2pm today.
Well, I'm all about FREE, so a friend and I met for an early breakfast. He got there at 5:50, and it was already packed. So he got a table, and ordered both of our meals. I got there right at 6am, and by 6:05 was eating my yummy breakfast. Never had eggs over easy, but it worked. The pancakes were good, the bacon and sausage not overcooked. We did pay for 2 large OJs and a side of hasbrowns. I think the tip was more than the food though.
By the time we left at 6:20 it was nearly impossible to get out the door. I'd say there were 50 people waiting!
Anyone else take advantage of free breakfast at Denny's today?
Did you see the ads during the Super Bowl? They are giving everyone a FREE Grand Slam (unfortunate name for a football game) between 6am - 2pm today.
Well, I'm all about FREE, so a friend and I met for an early breakfast. He got there at 5:50, and it was already packed. So he got a table, and ordered both of our meals. I got there right at 6am, and by 6:05 was eating my yummy breakfast. Never had eggs over easy, but it worked. The pancakes were good, the bacon and sausage not overcooked. We did pay for 2 large OJs and a side of hasbrowns. I think the tip was more than the food though.
By the time we left at 6:20 it was nearly impossible to get out the door. I'd say there were 50 people waiting!
Anyone else take advantage of free breakfast at Denny's today?
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Christmas in Florida
Yay! My IT people were able to retrieve my pictures from our trip to Florida! Originally when I tried downloading from my camera, the software froze, and it seemed deleted them. I am so happy.
So it is -16F here right now. Here are some pics to warm us up.
So it is -16F here right now. Here are some pics to warm us up.
Saturday, January 10, 2009
Ok, maybe
So I brought some work home, but am avoiding doing it, although I should. Maybe I will after I post this. I miss many of you that post here, and thank you for your friendship. I'm thinking I will try to post once in a while.
I went to a jewelry show last week. They had a sale "buy one get 2 for half price" and the 2 are the more expensive pieces! Yay! So I bought some jewelry. Only spent about $45. Plus I booked a party. Why do I do that? In the past 6 months I've had a book party (selling books) and a food party. Now a jewelry party in late February. Wanna come?
My new favorite cheese is Port Salud. It is a soft cheese, but expensive. I bought a very small chunk for $5.
At the food party I had in November, we made Jerk Chicken Nachos. We put a whole chicken in this covered baker that they sell, and microwaved it for 30 minutes. I was very skeptical that it would turn out decent, but not only did it turn out decent (read not rubbery) but it was fall apart tender! Amazing. So I used my free credit to buy one of those bakers, and here it sits in my office. I better use it sooner or later. I'm thinking that part of my hesitance to even open is is where am I going to put it?
I've started selling stuff on ebay again. Fun!
I went to a jewelry show last week. They had a sale "buy one get 2 for half price" and the 2 are the more expensive pieces! Yay! So I bought some jewelry. Only spent about $45. Plus I booked a party. Why do I do that? In the past 6 months I've had a book party (selling books) and a food party. Now a jewelry party in late February. Wanna come?
My new favorite cheese is Port Salud. It is a soft cheese, but expensive. I bought a very small chunk for $5.
At the food party I had in November, we made Jerk Chicken Nachos. We put a whole chicken in this covered baker that they sell, and microwaved it for 30 minutes. I was very skeptical that it would turn out decent, but not only did it turn out decent (read not rubbery) but it was fall apart tender! Amazing. So I used my free credit to buy one of those bakers, and here it sits in my office. I better use it sooner or later. I'm thinking that part of my hesitance to even open is is where am I going to put it?
I've started selling stuff on ebay again. Fun!
Monday, December 29, 2008
Roberta Jean
My good friend, Roberta Jean, passed away on Christmas Eve morning. I felt the need to post here a small tribute to her.
Thank you for the many laughs. You helped me become a more creative, if not actually better, scrabble player. Your wonderful, imaginative, fun secret santa gifts at our annual friends party were something I looked forward to every year. Especially if you had MY name. I loved hearing about your excursions to New Orleans, Florida, Mexico. Thank you for the friendship.
We will miss you.
It seems at her funeral this Friday, we are to wear our beach wear and flip flops. No black allowed. This helps to define the person Bert was.
RIP.
PS. This does not mean I am back to posting regularly in blogland. I'm too overwhelmed with RL to deal with this too. Just felt a strong need to tonight.
Thank you for the many laughs. You helped me become a more creative, if not actually better, scrabble player. Your wonderful, imaginative, fun secret santa gifts at our annual friends party were something I looked forward to every year. Especially if you had MY name. I loved hearing about your excursions to New Orleans, Florida, Mexico. Thank you for the friendship.
We will miss you.
It seems at her funeral this Friday, we are to wear our beach wear and flip flops. No black allowed. This helps to define the person Bert was.
RIP.
PS. This does not mean I am back to posting regularly in blogland. I'm too overwhelmed with RL to deal with this too. Just felt a strong need to tonight.
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Saturday, October 11, 2008
Beautiful day in the neighborhood
Wow! What a beautiful day it was today! Of course I spent most of it (7:30am - 3:30pm) inside working at a swim meet, but I got out in time to enjoy the rest of it!
Tomorrow is going to be even better. Sunny, low 70s. Love it. Well, except for the Asian Bettle Bugs. They look like lady bugs, but aren't as nice.
Oh, and the kids did very well at the meet too!
How was your day/weekend?
Tomorrow is going to be even better. Sunny, low 70s. Love it. Well, except for the Asian Bettle Bugs. They look like lady bugs, but aren't as nice.
Oh, and the kids did very well at the meet too!
How was your day/weekend?
Wednesday, October 01, 2008
redux redux redux
Yup, here we go again. I want to *sigh*, but right now I'm just pissed.
Well, I'm seeing a pattern here. Whenever I do something that shows hope for possible long term sobriety, he f***s it up.
Yes, I said the f word. Well, sort of.
The latest? I just signed up to be a chaperone on a swim meet trip to Indy for Devon. Of course that would mean leaving Marisa behind. She does have a meet as well that weekend. I talked with Don and expressed my concerns, and he kinda blew me off, saying something to the effect of "We'll have to deal with this concern for the rest of my life." I should have followed my gut and not signed up. My friend who I've confided in, who is married to a recovering alcoholic said that to me too. But my typically optimistic self ignored my possible concerns, and proceeded anyway. Now I'm in a pickle. He relapsed this past weekend, and lied about it when all 3 of us could clearly see.
Oh, and last night I told him to get this fixed or get out. Today I will tell him again, in more specific terms. I just have to figure out what those specific terms are. Cause I can't back down.
I plan on being poor rather soon, as he will lose his job, since he signed an agreement to stay sober. Unless he can somehow overcome this lapse without his boss finding out. Yeah. Sure.
Damn, I hate it when I become cynical. It really pisses me off.
Well, I'm seeing a pattern here. Whenever I do something that shows hope for possible long term sobriety, he f***s it up.
Yes, I said the f word. Well, sort of.
The latest? I just signed up to be a chaperone on a swim meet trip to Indy for Devon. Of course that would mean leaving Marisa behind. She does have a meet as well that weekend. I talked with Don and expressed my concerns, and he kinda blew me off, saying something to the effect of "We'll have to deal with this concern for the rest of my life." I should have followed my gut and not signed up. My friend who I've confided in, who is married to a recovering alcoholic said that to me too. But my typically optimistic self ignored my possible concerns, and proceeded anyway. Now I'm in a pickle. He relapsed this past weekend, and lied about it when all 3 of us could clearly see.
Oh, and last night I told him to get this fixed or get out. Today I will tell him again, in more specific terms. I just have to figure out what those specific terms are. Cause I can't back down.
I plan on being poor rather soon, as he will lose his job, since he signed an agreement to stay sober. Unless he can somehow overcome this lapse without his boss finding out. Yeah. Sure.
Damn, I hate it when I become cynical. It really pisses me off.
Sunday, September 28, 2008
Remember this one?
Ok, so I am totally on an old song binge right now. Remember this one by Sheriff?
Baby, my world stands still when I'm with you
When I'm with you
I never needed love like I need you
And I never lived for nobody, but I live for you
Oooh, babe, lost in love is what I feel when I'm with you
Maybe it's the way you touch me with the warmth of a sun
Maybe it's the way you smile, I come all undone
Oooh, babe, lost in love is that I feel when I'm with you
Baby, oh I get chills when I'm with you
Baby, my world stands still when I'm with you
When I'm with you
I never cared for nobody like I care for you
And I never wanted to share the things I want to share with you
Oooh, babe, lost in love is what I feel when I'm with you
Baby, oh I get chills when I'm with you
Baby, my world stands still when I'm with you
When I'm with you
Baby, my world stands still when I'm with you
When I'm with you
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
stuff
I am so caught up on my work at work that I have to do the filing that I keep putting off. Either that or be bored out of my mind for 7 out of 8 hours a day. I can't play on the computer too much either. I believe they are tracking that more now.
Devon is probably getting braces, and a thing that they call a twin block. It is supposed to help correct his overbite. Anyone with any experience with that?
I had the weirdest dream last night. It was about my crush. Nothing really good, just odd. He kissed me. How does that happen in dreams, anyway? I mean, it seemed like I actually felt it.
I think Warren Sapp is a very good dancer. But he has stick legs.
I am doing a Bible Study at church. This is the first major one I've ever done. We watch a video one week, and then discuss it and some related questions the next. I like the videos. But tonight we had our first discussion week, and it was stunted at best. I hope the discussion gets more involved, or I will lose interest quickly. And it is supposed to last for 20 weeks.
Devon is probably getting braces, and a thing that they call a twin block. It is supposed to help correct his overbite. Anyone with any experience with that?
I had the weirdest dream last night. It was about my crush. Nothing really good, just odd. He kissed me. How does that happen in dreams, anyway? I mean, it seemed like I actually felt it.
I think Warren Sapp is a very good dancer. But he has stick legs.
I am doing a Bible Study at church. This is the first major one I've ever done. We watch a video one week, and then discuss it and some related questions the next. I like the videos. But tonight we had our first discussion week, and it was stunted at best. I hope the discussion gets more involved, or I will lose interest quickly. And it is supposed to last for 20 weeks.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
