September 11

It's hard to believe that its been 8 years since the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Centers, Pentagon, and in the field of Pennsylvania. Time goes by so quickly.

I remember where I was....it was a devastating day. Totally changed the future of our country.....and our lives.

As a country, we are blessing with many bounties......and should be grateful for them. As a person, I am so blessed to have a good job, loving family and friends.....and the opportunity to enjoy my life.

I am so happy today....life is good.

God Bless those that died on this day on September 11, 2001, and those that have died protecting our freedom, and those that continue to serve.

God Bless America.

Short Week

Thankfully this is a short week. Our quick, but very fun, trip to Freno wore us out. We need some time to catch up on sleep and recover.

We had such a great time with Elena, Frank, and Elena's family. We had good food (courtesy of Chef Frank), and lots of fun. I hated to see the weekend end.

The dogs did well....Katie was her neurotic self.....I know she drove them crazy....

Back to work.....and Oscar is still outside my window. I am just amazed he's still there. Amazed and happy....it's so good to see him.

Things that make me smile: Walt's unwaivering love; pictures from our trip to CA; text messages; sunshine; Chai Lattes; Oscar fixing his web outside my window; thoughts of our vacation in October; finishing all my work; new beginnings; my friend's support; my Ipod; the endof the work day.....

Mini Vacations

Soon, we'll be on the road headed to Fresno, CA. A quick trip or mini vacation to see good friends, and enjoy a change of scenery. I've been looking forward to this for several months.....needing a break, and girlfriend time with Elena.

I'm looking forward to: a road trip with Walt and the dogs; spending time with Elena and Frank; meeting Elena's family after all these years; conversations with Walt; Sonic; warm weather; bbqing....

Mini vacations don't last long, but they seem to put the energy back into your life. Just a quick trip to rejuvinate things.....until the next time. Just under 60 days to go until our cruise....and counting.....

September!

It's hard to believe that it's finally September. I don't know where August went....but it flew by.

On the way in to work today, it started to rain.....I love this time of year. After the heat of the summer, it's nice to have cooler weather. On top of that, it means that things will begin to change....the colors of the trees, the days grow shorter, and the holidays are just around the corner.

Things to remember: say thank you; never miss a change to forgive; tell those you love what they mean to you; don't leave the coffee pot on when you leave the house; wear deodorant; tell someone when they have a boogie or something in their teeth; work to your potential; set your goals and work hard to meet them; be loyal; try not to take everything so seriously; and smile as often as possible.

Oscar is still in the window...dirty web and all. I wonder when he'll spin a new web.....the weather took it's toll on the one he had.....hang in there little buddy!

Sundays

I love quiet Sundays.....I look forward to being at home, reading the newspaper, and relaxing......no pressures....just me and Walt (with the doggies of course) hanging out at home.

I'm hoping this next week goes by quickly. I hate to rush time, but I am really looking forward to seeing my friend Elena and her husband Frank. It's been almost a year since we've seen them. It's kind of a long drive, but that's 1/2 the fun. Walt and I need some alone time to talk and reconnect.

I've never been to Fresno...not that I think I am missing anything in particular. Except that is where Elena lives. Its something new for us....as I don't think Walt has ever been to Fresno either. I love the drive down Oregon and into California. What's funny, is that at the end of October, we'll make basically the same trip.

I'm feeling overly sensitive though.....worried and fretful over things I can't control. The actions of another are not within my control...and to worry is for not. I can't help how I am though. I drive myself crazy.....I have to think positive and focus on things that are within my own control.

Looking forward: Cruise in October....will be a much needed vacation; the holidays.....will be especially special since they are our last here; cruise to Alaska in May for our anniversary; the summer; and then WV....busy year ahead of us.

Posted a recent picture of Oscar....hope he's still hanging out tomorrow when I get to work.....

I'm thankful for: forgiveness; my blessings; loving friends; opportunities; getaways; puppies; not being alone; love......

I'm exhausted!

What a week! I was afraid I'd made a mistake and dreamed today was Friday....thank goodness it is...and I have two days at home. Yay!

Week's highlights: Oscar returns - bigger, better and spins his magic; tons of work was accomplished.....I'm feeling very proud of myself; Sarah's check came...'bout damn time!; dinner at Tam's Thursday was fantastic...yummy pizza and a funny movie....good combo; and it's FINALLY Friday!

I definitely need a vacation. Next weekend we are making a quick trip to Fresno to see Elena and Frank. A much needed break. It'll be nice to just get in the car and drive and have Walt all to myself....=)

In two months, we'll be heading the same direction except we'll keep going on in to LA. I'll be on the hunt for Dodger gear, Mickey Mouse, Michael Jackson's star in Hollywood, tequila, and awaiting those beautiful Mexican sunsets. Ahh...it'll be heaven. 13 days away.....no work, no problems.....no worries.

I'm thankful for faithful friends, my loving mate, puppy love, and the fact that my girls are finally seeing me as someone who knows something about life.

Weekend wishes: sleeping in; breakfast in bed; sunny weather; clean clothes; a clean house; and snuggling with anyone who wants to stay in bed with me!

G'nite Oscar.....I hope to see you on Monday.....

Oscar reappears!!

Oscar is outside my window again! He looks different and he's bigger.....and for awhile his old "skin" was hanging there. I was so excited to see him. We'll have to see if he stays. The web is messed up.....I hope I come in tomorrow and he's spun a new web.....I'm keeping my fingers crossed!

Things worth being excited over: Oscar's return; loving someone; friendship; vacations (especially ones to new places and visiting good friends); cruise ships; tequila; good food; a pound lost; a good hair day; my happy puppies in the morning; forgiving someone; Fridays; jackpots; a new day!

Rock on Oscar!! I hope to see you tomorrow!

My friend is gone....

Well, I came in this morning and discovered a mangled web and Oscar was gone. How sad....

We had a good thing while it lasted. Maybe he's moved on to someone elses' window, and is making them smile.....I'll sure miss him. I'm grateful for the time he hung outside my window.....

I imagine maybe he's off cavorting with other spiders...maybe in a spider commune. Spider parties every night.....maybe he met a girl spider and they ran off together.....I'll never know.

Cherish each day....

Things I cherish: My sweetie; my kids; four legged friends; my circle of friends; sunsets; special memories.........

August

Oscar is still outside my window....I'm sort of amazed since it's been two weeks. He's become something I look forward to when I sit down in my chair.....preparing for the day.

August is coming to a close. I'm not sure where the rest of the month went, but as I sit here viewing the calendar and wondering what it is I've accomplished so far this year.




Well, I've accomplished a lot I guess if you consider remaining employed, losing weight, making new friends, getting a new bladder, a nice trip to Vegas......that's not bad for a year's time. And it's not quite over yet. There's still more to come.





August reminds me of school supplies, school clothes, and the idea that Fall is just around the corner. While I love summer, Fall is my favorite time of the year. Maybe that's while checking out the calendar, I know it's close and I am filled with anticipation. There won't be school supplies or clothes.....those days are long gone since the girls are on their own and grown up. (sad though)





What is ahead is colored leaves, apples, pumpkins, rainy days, our cruise in late October, Southern California touristy things, Mickey Mouse, Thanksgiving, and the holidays. Maybe that's why I love Fall so much.....filled with so much activity.....





Past Fall memories: Halloween cosutmes; buying school supplies with my Dad; apple cider; pumpkin patches; running through the dried leaves in our yard; baking cookies with my Mom; Sarah's bumble bee Halloween costume; Holly's birthday in early November; getting engaged to Walt in October 1997.....so many memories......I'm so blessed.

Life

There's been a tiny spider living outside the window of my office for about two weeks. He (of course I don't know the gender of this small spider, so I have fondly been referring to him as "him") In the two weeks he's been living there, he's created a huge web. The webbing is so fine, I can only see it when the sun is shining on it.

He has been suspended in the same spot each day. I can only assume that he's busy at night since the web is so large. But he always seems to come back to the same spot.....right in front of me. I'm not a fan of spiders.....but here he is....and I am facinated by him....watch him.....and look for him each morning.

Some times, he's stretched out and I can see the spots on his tiny legs. His whole body can't be bigger than a pencil eraser. But against the window and in that web, he looks large. I haven't seen anything get caught in his web, so I wonder how he's surviving. I can only see about 1/2 of the window, so maybe his food supply is somewhere else.

Right now he appears to be sleeping...all curled up and moving so slightly in the breeze. Does he have spider friends? Do they have wild spider parties at night?

I want a life with that much serenity. Just hanging out waiting for whatever.....being admired, even though I might not be the prettiest of creatures. Undisturbed by life's worries. I imagine he's got plenty of worries with birds and bigger insects out there who might enjoy him for a snack.

For now, he's my tiny friend....when I feel overwhelmed or ready to give up....I just look at him. Serenity.....relaxing in the morning sunshine......

Things I am grateful for: today being a new day; Walt's unwavering love; friendships that make life enjoyable; my girls; coffee; my tiny little spider friend reminding me to enjoy life and don't sweat the small stuff; puppy kisses in the morning.

I think I'll name my tiny friend Oscar.

Historical Time....

The last week was filled with sad celebrity loses. As the generations ahead of us starts to pass away, it brings one's own mortality into perspective.

The passing of Ed McMahon wasn't a huge shock. He was an elderly man. His mark on Hollywood no doubt with always be synonymous with Johnny Carson and the Publisher's Clearing House Sweepstakes. He was a television icon....

Farrah Fawcett's death was very sad. She had such a tough battle against the cancer that ultimately took her life. She was brave, and an inspiration for anyone who has adversity in their' lives. I can remember wanting to have my hair cut like her's in the late 70's, and didn't miss an episode of Charlie's Angels. No doubt the void her family feels is deep.....but her legacy of grace and courage will be an inspiration to the world....

The death of Michael Jackson was the biggest shock of all. The controversy surrounding what caused his death is still thick within the news. I can remember listening to and watching the Jackson 5's music during my early childhood. The son "Ben" always made me cry, even though I'd never seen Willard....In the late 70's and early 80's Michael's music was such a huge part of my life. If it wasn't during times with friends, it was at dances.....and the ground breaking MTV station....He certainly was the King of Pop....and someone that I will always be a part of my personal history book.....

Thoughts of the day: June is coming to a close; heading back to work soon; the continuous news reports "speculating" on Michael Jackson's death; 4th of July; being able to exercise again; my upcoming "girl's weekend"; appreciation for Walt's love and care.

Get me out of here!!

That's kind of how I'm feeling today. Just a bit of cabin fever going on. Not that I haven't gotten out of the house a couple of times this week. Once to visit my doctor, and again yesterday to attend Tamara's daughter's graduation party. I get pretty worn out easily, and came home a crashed after both outtings.

I'm recovering well. I still have pain now and then, but its tolerable. I'm swollen in the surgical area which is deep in side too. Not the most comfortable. Walking a lot irritates the swelling.....just sucks.

But God has blessed me with a circle of people who have helped make this whole thing more bareable. I don't know what I'd do without them. Between the many visits, food, and constant communication, I have not jumped ship and ran away!! Emails become so much more important as I keep connected to the outside world.

We are packing today for a visit to Las Vegas on Tuesday. I can't do a whole lot, but I can pack the suitcases. I am cheating and not ironing everything (as I usually do when preparing to travel), and packing our clothes steamer to use while we're there. I can pack more, and not feel like a dork when I bring back tons of clothes that I spent hours ironing and didn't wear.

It will be nice to get away with Walt....its been a while. Getting him alone makes it all that much fun. Downside is staying with the MIL who I am sure hates me. I'll smile sincerely and do my best to be pleasant. We have lots things we'd like to do so that will keep us preoccupied much of the time.

Thoughts of the day: having a husband who doesn't mind taking over everything and treats me so wonderfully; the glorious heat of the desert; SONIC; Oatman, Arizona; winning jackpots; drinks galore; being a tourist in a town we used to live in; being alone with my hubby.....laughing and making memories.

Day 3 of Recovery

Day 3....recovery is going well. I don't have a lot of pain, but enough that I am uncomfortable without the pain medicine. Which sucks.

I haven't had any bladder issues...which is fantastic! The surgery seems to have been a success! My recovery will be a long one....6 weeks, but well worth it. Right now I am whining because I can't really do anything for myself. Trips to the bathroom are the extent of my activity. My new "spare parts" need to heal and adhere to their new home, so any activity is discouraged. Thank goodness I have such a loving husband who is there when I need him.

Thoughts....

pain meds are awesome; cooler weather is welcome; chocolate pudding is tasty; friends are important to good recovery; Walt is an incredible person; my wiener dogs are the best medicine ever; daytime tv sucks; surgery was well worth everything I've been through or will go through; its not good to go too long without pain medicine...things start to hurt; I'm the luckiest lady on the Earth...I've got incredible people in my life.

The last day

This is the last day that I'll have to endure these bladder issues....I can't imagine being happy to undergo major surgery, but I have to admit, I am happy. No more piddling....

Life can slowly get back to normal.....I can exercise, which will help me combat this damned diabetes, I can move about in a normal, and life in general will calm down.

What's on my mind today:

Surgery....first and foremost, getting it over with and moving the hell on; 6 weeks away from the craziness of work (and the boss); relaxing and reading; visits from friends; good drugs; sunshine; iced tea; Las Vegas; lots of snuggling with the dogs; girl's weekend with my buds; TLC from my husbando; oh and did I mention 6 weeks away from the boss?

Saturdays

I have to admit, I love Saturdays. Especially after a long week at work.

It amazes me that there was a time when we could sleep in until 9 or 10 o'clock.....we're lucky if we sleep until 7am now. Our favorite thing to do is lounge in bed and watch Saturday morning tv. Of course it's nothing close to Saturday morning tv of the old days, but the infomercials are interesting and sometimes entertaining.

Baseball is a big part of Saturday tv....today the Mets were actually on tv and that makes Walt very happy. Gotta love baseball season.

I've napped and posted on Facebook on and off all day, and I had surprise visitors this morning....Tamara and Nikki.....it was a wonderful surprise. They brought flowers...such a nice jesture and most appreciated. I'm so lucky to have a friend like her.....

My sugar dropped to 51 earlier, and that was kind of scary. Thankfully we had some candy and "real" soda so that I could bring it up quickly. I hope that doesn't happen too many more times.....it sure doesn't feel good.

I got some books on diabetes in the mail today that I ordered....and I foresee my Sunday being filled with reading and relaxing.....oh, and laundry.

Things that have made me smile today: Walt's laughter in the morning; breakfast in bed; watching the movie 16 Candles and feeling kinda old; baseball on tv; food channel programs; surprise visit and flowers from a friend; pizza; new books to read; diet dr. pepper; bubble bath; knowing I won't have a dribble problem for much longer; thinking about trip to Las Vegas; sunshine and birds in the feeders outside our window.

The day draws near....

Before I go into how close my surgery date is getting, I must first say that this weekend is a very important time to remember our fallen men/women in uniform. Being a daughter of a naval vet, I have always been a huge patriot and proud of the red, white and blue. May God bless those who have passed on, and go with those who still serve.

So the date for my surgery gets closer.....thankfully! I am so tired of piddling all over the place. It will be nice to cough and sneeze and not need a bath. Not to mention a good hearty laugh is way over due!

I would be remiss if I didn't admit that I am nervous about having surgery at all, but the thought of knowing I won't have those little (and sometimes big) accidents far out weighs my fears. I'm lucky to have a husband who doesn't mind taking care of his favorite patient, and will be there to hold my hand as much as he can.

Diabetes update: I am not taking oral insulin. Can you hear my sighs? It isn't what I had hoped for, but I have to admit my sugar levels have dropped considerably. I even feel sort of human. It's been awhile. I know that once I have the surgery (which has been foremost on my mind and a huge incentive for eating right and getting the sugar levels down), I will have 6 weeks to concentrate on getting a grip on the right diet and lifestyle. Its not going to happen over night....but I am one lucky girl to have a supportive husband friends. I couldn't get through this without them.

I'm going to get my life on the right track, and all will fall into place the way they are supposed to be.

Things I am thinking about: Memorial Day and what it really means; the sunshine today and how great it made me feel; low fasting blood sugar this morning, 127; wearing flip flops all weekend; hanging out with my handsome hubby and doing yardwork; Baseball....Randy Johnson is in town; getting laundry finished....not a great thought but worthy of giving a thought; how nice it was to see my friend's new position officially announced to our company; remembering to take medication, and on time; being as lazy tomorrow as possible......

My new life....

The last three weeks of my life have been the most challenging I've had in a long time. No only did I learn that I would need surgery to fix a small problem, I also learned that I am diabetic.

The latter was the most shocking....I hadn't paid much attention to the symptoms I'd been experiencing for months.....I knew I was a candidate by family history.....but I sure wasn't expecting this to happen to me. Shock. And denial.

Immediately, my doctor put me on a medication that is meant to help bring sugar levels down. Unfortunately, it has side effects that aren't pleasant. (nausea is one...) I made it through the first week, and my sugar levels came down. I was relieved. I had relatively no side effects from the new medication, and actually felt pretty good.

Week two wasn't as pleasant. The dosage of my new medication was increased....increasing the side effects. Part of learning about this is finding the right time to take the meds so that the side effects are minimized. I also began to feel withdraws because I haven't had real sugar or soda since the initial diagnosis. I started feeling sorry for myself because I didn't want to do this anymore. Thankfully, it didn't last long.

The third week was much easier, but not without some challenges. While, I handled the additional dosage of the new medication, stress from work began to take it's toll. Because I haven't felt like my old self, my ability to handle even simple stress was not what it usually is. When Friday arrived, I was relieved to have a stress free weekend to look forward to.

Today, I feel pretty good. I'm ready for a new week, and ready to face whatever it may bring. I continue to make better food choices, and anticipate my upcoming surgery. This will be my last full week of work for awhile. I wish that fact disappointed me....

Current favorites: our first jewelry show success; friends who sincerely care; Luna bars; sunny days; flip flops; knowing the bladder issues are coming to an end; planting flowers in my very own yard; new pedicure; sugar free ice cream cones; breaking out the summer clothes; iced tea; looking forward to Vegas trip in 1 month; my hubby's love and support.

Friends Part 2 (again)

This is the second attempt at posting this.....the first one didn't show up....this better work!

I can't imagine what my life would be like without the special people who make life so special and memorable.


Terry and Anne very special to us.....relatively new friends....but we enjoy hanging out with them and are grateful for many things in common....

This is my best friend Elena....there are no words to explain how important she is in my life....BFF is just the beginning....I am so lucky to have as a part of my life....she is family......

My Friends Part 1

This is Tamara with Walt.....wouldn't know what to do without such a wonderful friend......and man, can this chick cook.....bonus!!

This is Harald...he's actually Walt's boss, but a very good person to have as a friend. He's funny...and has a secret way of making everyone around him feel comfortable.....

Katie isn't too happy about how silly she looks with the sombrero on her head.....but what a sweet friend. (the human fellow, aka my best friend in the whole world doesn't look to sympathetic)

I am blessed.....

More to come.....

May

I sat here thinking today that it's hard to believe that May is here already. Just yesterday it was April (LOL) Seriously, this year is flying by.

So much is happening around me, that I feel like I am on one of those tilt-a-whirl rides. Most recently, I am dealing with an inevitable procedure, and a new diagnosis of diabetes.

The latter has completed turned my world upside down. I have had to completely change my way of thinking, and what I stuff in my face. Gone are the carefree days of eating just any thing I want. I still can have any thing I want, just not as much as before. Outings are forever changed, and I am on an eating schedule to help regulate my sugar levels. (no spontenaiety...at least not yet)

Thankfully I have the most awesome support system I could ever dream of. Not only are they there to comfort me, but they are there to listen, support and encourage me. They have been accomodating and understanding. I am so lucky. It wasn't even expected.....but so greatly appreciated.

So...now I add "diabetic" to my list of things that make me who I am.....don't ask what the list entails...it may shock you.

I am convinced that I can get a hold of this situation and not allow it to alter one thing about me. (well, except my weight)

Spring is a time of renewal and growth....I never imagined I'd be sitting here discussing my diabetes..but yet, here I am. I'll control it, and it won't control me. I am looking forward to the summer....the sunshine and the fun. I am blessed and so very grateful to be here....

Anyone who knows me, knows I have lists....lists for lists....to remember lists....of the list I want to remember.....you get it, I am sure.

So....here's a list of what I look forward about summer......

sunshine....BASEBALL (watching the Dodgers kick butt)....birds feeding from the feeder outside my bedroom window....the smell of cut grass.....sun tea.....longer days.....seeing Mt. Rainier more often.....evening walks.....being able to eat on the patio of a restaurant.....having the windows open at home......seeing hummingbirds.....my flowerbeds in full bloom......trips to the ocean......flip flops.....watermellon.....drive in movies......not having to wear pantyhose to work......ballpark hotdogs......sunsets......the dog park.....hiking.....evenings on the patio.....bbq-ing.....

I'm off....to enjoy the sunshine...it's Friday....and time to fly....

Spring...

It's hard to believe that March has arrived. It seems like we just celebrated the New Year, and we're heading towards the middle of March already.

Maybe it's because Jan, Feb, and now the beginning of March have been so busy. Time has passed and I didn't notice.

Looking outside at the blue sky, I can visualize spring, and all the beauty it brings to the Pacific Northwest. Everything blooms, and it's rejuvinating. It also brings with it the hopes of an early summer, and all the fun that accompanies the warmer weather.

We don't have much planned for the summer except a cruise in early August to Alaska. I'm sure we'll end up having a couple of road trips to keep us from going crazy....

I love this time of year....and look forward to planting new flowers and making our yard look colorful again.....winter is so dreary....

It's almost time to break out the flip flops.....

Empty apologies

I know this person who has more issues and problems than anyone I've ever met. She frustrates me, and makes me disappointed in myself for being so trusting and open.

I had this friend who only called me when she couldn't get a hold of anyone else. She always had some sort of drama going on in her life, and over time, it began to drain me. I was relieved when her calls became fewer and then none at all.

Make a bucket list, or not?

It seems that with the release of the movie "Bucket List," everyone we know has created their own version of "what we/I want to do before I die.

Truthfully, I resisted. Mostly out of my innate need to be spotaneous and live for the moment. Then it hit me. It's a good thing to stand by and wait for those life changing moments that make you stop and think "wow, I'm glad I did that or saw this before I die." So, I too caught the bucket list train, and I am enjoying the challenge.

While I have my personal list of things I want to do, it seems that I'd rather create a list with Walter instead. It seems more meaningful if you have someone else there to share the moment, and have someone to share the experience. The list below has some basic events, but many require planning. Whether or not each one comes true, it's the creation of the dream that there are yet things to do and experience in the twilight of our lives. The freedom to even make this list and attempt to achieve each goal is an experience in itself.

The list is in no particular order, and it continues to grow every day!!

Experience the true essence of New Orleans

DisneyWorld

Paris

Germany

Swim with dolphins

Mets game in NY

Caribbean Cruise

Red convertible

Yellowstone/Mt Rushmore

see a live tv show

stay in Malibu

be at a playoff game MLB/NFL

have a home in Las Vegas

go parisailing

own a beach house

have a classic car

visit Kennedy Space Center

see Jo and Les in their Martha and George Costumes in

Williamsburg, Va

Scrapbook every photo

Giants and/or Dolphins game

Visit Chicago

Niagra Falls

Cooperstown

Grand Canyon

London

Washinton DC

Jet skiing

lunch in Central Park

Rutt's Hut in Clifton Park, NJ

Keith Urban in concert

Ride train to top of Pike's Peak CO

Romantic weekend in Santa Barbara/Solvang

Napa Valley

Max & Mina's Ice Cream Parlor, Queens, NY

New Year!

Another year has come and gone. It's hard to believe 2009 is already here. This is certainly going to take some getting used to.

Not that 2008 was a total bust of a year. Many wonderful things happened last year, that will no doubt put 2008 down as one of the best years in awhile.

My eagerness to get the year over with is solely a result of my having such a difficult time with the holidays. Some years are harder. This year wasn't as bad as others have been.

Highlights: Oregon trip in February; Anniversary trip to Port Angeles; opening our new department at work; Mexican cruise in October with Elena and Frank; New Years with Anne and Terry.

It's with great anticipation that I greet 2009. I imagine all our plans will bring happiness and adventure. What an exciting year this is going to be!