Yesterday I shared something with the group that I also would like to share here. I think it is necessary for anyone that knows me, to know that I also have my dark days, days when I feel blue and wonder what my life is all about.
On those days old habits try and push their way back into my life. Eating of course is the great problem solver. We all know that...Right? WRONG!!! When we feed an emotion with bad choices in food, all we do is create a greater emotion ;GUILT, which will very often lead to throwing in the towel, saying "screw it" and go on with our binge.
When the blues set in I am no different then you are. I wonder if it is possible to just shove the whole refrigerator into my mouth and avoid having to even open it. I'll eat everything in it anyway. The freezer, should it contain frozen cakes or pies is also fair game. That's what they make hammers for. Oh stop laughing, tell me you never ate a frozen cake. No? Well then you never had an eating disorder.
Nothing is safe when I'm in a blue mood...hell, my dogs run for cover. But there is a solution.
Don't have anything bad available. Oh I know people with kids will say that's impossible, after all kids HAVE to eat Junk. I remember the "Basic Seven" I think we learned it in 2nd grade..I don't think they teach that anymore..lets see: Milk: Thick shakes would fall into that category.
Vegetables: Yes there is lettuce and tomato on a Mickey D'd burger. Fruit: Do fruit shaped candy slices count? What about Cherry Coke? Egg's: That's easy, it is in cup cakes, Little Debbie, Oh eggs are easy. Meat and fish hmmm Chicken Nuggets comes to mind and that snack shaped like little fish. Cereal: Another easy one...Fruit Loops (ah there's the fruit) and cocoa puffs and Butter: No problem there, thats used in cakes and cookies too...
Well kids visiting me have a serious problem..I do have SF ice pops and apples and banana's which are great with peanut butter..I even have some little nut snack packs (nuts and raisins)
Crystal lite is the only "Drink " available. They survive, they come back....
Try as I might, I could not find ANYTHING that would feed my emotional Blues...Cherries came close but missed there mark...So I decided to think about some crafts I didn't to complete and a studio that needs some organization and before I knew it I was busy doing other things that made me happy and the Blues went away.
They will return, it would be unrealistic to think that emotion is gone forever. Dealing with it has become easier. I find it much easier to remember where I've been, partly because of emotional eating. I do not want to ever revisit that dark place. For the most part I have always been a happy, positive person. Having lost weight ON MY OWN (surgery was only a tool) and struggling every day to maintain it..I remain an even happier person...We can raise above just about anything we put our minds too. I'm here to tell you I KNOW that for a fact...
My Hidden Treasure
Monday, May 30, 2011
Saturday, May 28, 2011
Holiday Week-end and missing my friends
This "holiday" makes me sad. I start thinking about all the men and women who have given their lives for my freedom and how little we think about them, their sacrifice and the sacrifice of their families. We do not "Party , hardy" on this week-end. We will picnic with friends, but we will also remember what this week-end is all about. I will remember Ron Howard, the soldier I met on my way to Paducah, the soldier I fought with "airline protocol" to get a seat for..a seat he deserved. I was ashamed of the people I shared that plane with...not one of them was willing to give up their seat to a man that was willing to die for their freedom...Not that they could have, I tried and was told it was against FAA regs. which I understood...but I would have liked to have seen people at least make an offer. I don't give a crap about Gold and Silver passengers, the fact that they pay to board first...A soldier may pay with his life...which is worth more? makes me sick to even think of the greed and lack of compassion. Save me from those who feel they are so F*&^% important.
I miss my friends. I love when they visit. They are a joy and a comfort to me and Rich. We feel so blessed to have them in our lives.
One of the butterflies was nervous about "grief" eating. She lost an Uncle and she is new to the program. There are all levels of grief and any emotion can send us into an eating frenzy. I lost an Uncle not all that long ago, but I also lost an Uncle in WWII, an uncle I was named after ( we won't discuss my middle name) I grieve for him during this Holiday as well as all the friends I lost in Viet Nam. When grief strikes, we do the best we can. We try and stay mindful of the Journey we are on..what got us to where we are now and the question "Do we want to return to where we where?" That thought is very sobering to me...my answer is always "Good God NO!"
So with that in mind, I may have an extra ice pop or skinny cow to sooth my hurting heart. I may eat a cookie or two...but hell, I do that when I'm happy as well. This surgery will not stop emotional eating, that is something we will always have to deal with on our own.
While my friends were here all I wanted to do was enjoy their visit, I didn't want to think about anything else...so yes I had a bagel or two, I had some cookies, even a taste of wine...I'm still here to talk about it and proud that I had a frozen banana as opposed to ice cream. It's all about choices. I made some good ones, some not so good...I've moved on and the scale did not move.
I think we can turn life into an obsession very easy...I find it best to not dwell on what I did wrong yesterday and focus on what I will do right today.
Please take time out of your week-end to say a pray for not only those soldiers who have made the ultimate sacrifice, but for those brave men and women who will not be celebrating this day, because they are a world away from their families, willing to die so that others can enjoy their lives... God Bless America today and always!!
I miss my friends. I love when they visit. They are a joy and a comfort to me and Rich. We feel so blessed to have them in our lives.
One of the butterflies was nervous about "grief" eating. She lost an Uncle and she is new to the program. There are all levels of grief and any emotion can send us into an eating frenzy. I lost an Uncle not all that long ago, but I also lost an Uncle in WWII, an uncle I was named after ( we won't discuss my middle name) I grieve for him during this Holiday as well as all the friends I lost in Viet Nam. When grief strikes, we do the best we can. We try and stay mindful of the Journey we are on..what got us to where we are now and the question "Do we want to return to where we where?" That thought is very sobering to me...my answer is always "Good God NO!"
So with that in mind, I may have an extra ice pop or skinny cow to sooth my hurting heart. I may eat a cookie or two...but hell, I do that when I'm happy as well. This surgery will not stop emotional eating, that is something we will always have to deal with on our own.
While my friends were here all I wanted to do was enjoy their visit, I didn't want to think about anything else...so yes I had a bagel or two, I had some cookies, even a taste of wine...I'm still here to talk about it and proud that I had a frozen banana as opposed to ice cream. It's all about choices. I made some good ones, some not so good...I've moved on and the scale did not move.
I think we can turn life into an obsession very easy...I find it best to not dwell on what I did wrong yesterday and focus on what I will do right today.
Please take time out of your week-end to say a pray for not only those soldiers who have made the ultimate sacrifice, but for those brave men and women who will not be celebrating this day, because they are a world away from their families, willing to die so that others can enjoy their lives... God Bless America today and always!!
Monday, May 23, 2011
Company and fun
I am thrilled to have friends visiting today. Their annual visit seems to come and go so fast. We love having them and they are great company...no fussing :-)
Ellen wants to find a wall quilt, so we have a mission. Not sure how successful we will be, but it will be fun looking.
Today's topic on the thread was emotional eating. Something that doesn't go away because we had surgery. Some thing or someone can, at any time, say something that will send us looking for comfort food. My trick is not to have it available. Keep good food available that isn't harmful, like ice pops, Skinny Cow, fruit (anything sweet, which is usually what we need at the time) of course I keep them for snacks as well. Surgery is a tool but we will always have to deal with our emotions...sure my small stomach stops me from doing too much harm and usually the feeling passes before I can eat again. But we must always be aware of the triggers that will send us into an eating frenzy and know what our alternatives are. Mine are bushing my animals or walking up to the pond, far away from food. Find a none food alternative to comfort you in a time of stress...This Journey is NOT a smooth road, be prepared for bumps and pot holes.....
Ellen wants to find a wall quilt, so we have a mission. Not sure how successful we will be, but it will be fun looking.
Today's topic on the thread was emotional eating. Something that doesn't go away because we had surgery. Some thing or someone can, at any time, say something that will send us looking for comfort food. My trick is not to have it available. Keep good food available that isn't harmful, like ice pops, Skinny Cow, fruit (anything sweet, which is usually what we need at the time) of course I keep them for snacks as well. Surgery is a tool but we will always have to deal with our emotions...sure my small stomach stops me from doing too much harm and usually the feeling passes before I can eat again. But we must always be aware of the triggers that will send us into an eating frenzy and know what our alternatives are. Mine are bushing my animals or walking up to the pond, far away from food. Find a none food alternative to comfort you in a time of stress...This Journey is NOT a smooth road, be prepared for bumps and pot holes.....
Sunday, May 22, 2011
Dancing in the moon light (sugar coating)
What's wrong with being happy? I have never been bothered by anyone who is happy. In fact one of my doctors has the most beautiful smile and smiles all the time...ALL the time..odd when he is giving you bad news, but also appreciated. I love that man..I can't help but laugh in his office and everyone on his staff agrees, it is a pleasure to go to work in the morning. He shows up during a blizzard (travels from Albany to Delhi) and when people ask him the road is closed "How did you get here?" he just smiles "My road wasn't closed" and goes on about his business.
Some people are just HAPPY. Why does my Happy attitude bother people? I wasn't always happy, but then something happened that changed my life forever, something horrible. Now I could have used that situation to be miserable and angry for the rest of my life...but instead I made a choice, a conscious choice to embrace how precious life truly is, what a gift it is to wake up to a new day, to rejoice at all the good that has happened to me and be thankful for the amount of love that surrounds me.
I am not a Pollyanna as some people think. Do I sugar coat things...absolutely not..but I will try and put a positive spin on a negative event. It's what I do, it's how I survive..If you don't like my survival technique...walk away...how easy is that? Both my brother and I have been told we have an unusual tolerance to most kinds of pain. I believe it is because as children we suffered
excruciating pain as well as fear...We suffered through beatings that drew blood and broke bones, me more so then him because he was sickly and I made every effort to protect him...But in retrospect there is very little pain I have endured as an adult, that can compare to the pain of my childhood.
I strongly resent people coming right out and telling others..."No matter what you hear, this surgery is painful"...isn't that calling me and others like me liars? I am not going to lie or be accused of "sugar coating" because I will not admit to feeling pain. This surgery was NOT painful to me and many others. Yes there was some discomfort in the belly area, but it was short lived and not "PAINFUL", certainly not enough to take pain meds for.
WE are all so very different and that's okay. I sit and read about people complaining of the "terrible pain" after surgery...and people just eat that up..."Oh yes I remember it well", "Oh I know, it was just awful" blah, blah, blah But when I post, simply to let New people know that there is a flip side to that coin...Those that have complained of pain , go up in arms...like I'm calling them a liar. That shoe always seems to hurt when it's on the other foot.
I will always tell people the truth. Sometimes people do not like the truth...well then don't come to me with a question. If you can't deal with a positive attitude and a happy personality, then go find someone who isn't.
Am I always Happy? For the most part , YES. Do I get angry, you bet I do. Do I complain? Yup..
Is everything always "Rosy" in my life? NO my life has it's pain and suffering just like every one else (perhaps that's why I have a low tolerance for whiners) but I choose to look at pain and suffering as a lesson and as a challenge, not something to whine about. If it's broke, fix it...deal with it and move on. Complaining about a situation, IMHO, is like picking at a scab...it will only get worse the more you pick and it will never heal and go away. All my life I have met darkness with light, it was how I survived. I remember as a child, looking at the moon on a crystal clear night...there was just a sliver of light, but I could also see the dark side...just this big black, almost,circle of darkness. I was being punished and sent to bed without dinner and I remember seeing that moon as my life...so very, very dark. But I concentrated on that sliver of light and thought it was so beautiful .Even though most of the moon was dark, it was that sliver of light that illuminated the entire area and allowed me to see the larger dark side...as big as that darkness was, it could not over power that light. My tears stopped and I smiled, bound and determined to be that light and not allow the darkness to over take me or beat me down...It never has.
Like everyone, I have my dark moments, my dark days...but I also have the memory of that moon and the thoughts of that evening. Perhaps everyone should gaze at the sliver of the moon and rejoice in the light. I think the world would be a much better place. I remember too, seeing the full moon not long after...I was spinning around in the moon light and my dad was home (those were always good times) he was laughing at me and asking me why I was so happy. It was hard being so young to find the words. How could I explain that the full moon was a symbol of hope to me, that I was happy because the light took over the dark completely. I don't really remember the words I used but I do remember my Dad laughing with me and saying "That's my girl"...
I choose to be happy...It is one habit I do not need to break. What you choose to focus on in your life is your business. Don't rain on my parade, let me bring my sliver of the moon to the table.
You bring your darkness and let's see who wins....
Some people are just HAPPY. Why does my Happy attitude bother people? I wasn't always happy, but then something happened that changed my life forever, something horrible. Now I could have used that situation to be miserable and angry for the rest of my life...but instead I made a choice, a conscious choice to embrace how precious life truly is, what a gift it is to wake up to a new day, to rejoice at all the good that has happened to me and be thankful for the amount of love that surrounds me.
I am not a Pollyanna as some people think. Do I sugar coat things...absolutely not..but I will try and put a positive spin on a negative event. It's what I do, it's how I survive..If you don't like my survival technique...walk away...how easy is that? Both my brother and I have been told we have an unusual tolerance to most kinds of pain. I believe it is because as children we suffered
excruciating pain as well as fear...We suffered through beatings that drew blood and broke bones, me more so then him because he was sickly and I made every effort to protect him...But in retrospect there is very little pain I have endured as an adult, that can compare to the pain of my childhood.
I strongly resent people coming right out and telling others..."No matter what you hear, this surgery is painful"...isn't that calling me and others like me liars? I am not going to lie or be accused of "sugar coating" because I will not admit to feeling pain. This surgery was NOT painful to me and many others. Yes there was some discomfort in the belly area, but it was short lived and not "PAINFUL", certainly not enough to take pain meds for.
WE are all so very different and that's okay. I sit and read about people complaining of the "terrible pain" after surgery...and people just eat that up..."Oh yes I remember it well", "Oh I know, it was just awful" blah, blah, blah But when I post, simply to let New people know that there is a flip side to that coin...Those that have complained of pain , go up in arms...like I'm calling them a liar. That shoe always seems to hurt when it's on the other foot.
I will always tell people the truth. Sometimes people do not like the truth...well then don't come to me with a question. If you can't deal with a positive attitude and a happy personality, then go find someone who isn't.
Am I always Happy? For the most part , YES. Do I get angry, you bet I do. Do I complain? Yup..
Is everything always "Rosy" in my life? NO my life has it's pain and suffering just like every one else (perhaps that's why I have a low tolerance for whiners) but I choose to look at pain and suffering as a lesson and as a challenge, not something to whine about. If it's broke, fix it...deal with it and move on. Complaining about a situation, IMHO, is like picking at a scab...it will only get worse the more you pick and it will never heal and go away. All my life I have met darkness with light, it was how I survived. I remember as a child, looking at the moon on a crystal clear night...there was just a sliver of light, but I could also see the dark side...just this big black, almost,circle of darkness. I was being punished and sent to bed without dinner and I remember seeing that moon as my life...so very, very dark. But I concentrated on that sliver of light and thought it was so beautiful .Even though most of the moon was dark, it was that sliver of light that illuminated the entire area and allowed me to see the larger dark side...as big as that darkness was, it could not over power that light. My tears stopped and I smiled, bound and determined to be that light and not allow the darkness to over take me or beat me down...It never has.
Like everyone, I have my dark moments, my dark days...but I also have the memory of that moon and the thoughts of that evening. Perhaps everyone should gaze at the sliver of the moon and rejoice in the light. I think the world would be a much better place. I remember too, seeing the full moon not long after...I was spinning around in the moon light and my dad was home (those were always good times) he was laughing at me and asking me why I was so happy. It was hard being so young to find the words. How could I explain that the full moon was a symbol of hope to me, that I was happy because the light took over the dark completely. I don't really remember the words I used but I do remember my Dad laughing with me and saying "That's my girl"...
I choose to be happy...It is one habit I do not need to break. What you choose to focus on in your life is your business. Don't rain on my parade, let me bring my sliver of the moon to the table.
You bring your darkness and let's see who wins....
Saturday, May 21, 2011
Some Bees DIE after they sting...
The day before yesterday I announced to my WLS group that I was about to kick a bees nest. That was my way of saying I knew that not everyone was going to "get" what I was saying, but I knew it would open up some necessary dialog. I "kicked" because a newly minted Butterfly had brought up a very valid point to me and she seemed afraid to post her feelings. She felt that she couldn't mention the little issues she was having for fear of "scaring" people, yet she felt she was doing something wrong because she had never read anything regarding these issues.
I wanted to open the door for her and new butterflies like her. For the most part people did in fact "Get" me and where I was going..There were two who were a bit offended, one that thought it was totally about her (we cleared that up pretty fast) and then of course there was the one idiot, who felt a need to respond even though she has no clue. Not only is she very new, she hasn't had her surgery yet and doesn't listen to a word people say. Her threat was that she was "taking her ball and going home" actually it was just as immature, she was "going to find another group". Her kind rarely find another group willing to embrace her for very long. I wanted so much to say "don't let the door hit you in the ass" but I'd like to think I have more control of myself then she does. However I didn't see anyone begging her to stay, nor has anyone missed her. She is destined to fail, but in my heart I do hope she goes out of her way to prove me wrong. It's win/win from where I sit.
Not a day passes that I do not learn something from someone...Life is just such an extraordinary experience... I am so happy that newly minted Butterfly finally posted. It's true, we do not talk about those little things that happen. In my case totally user error. Gas pains, too much gas, pain cause by eating too fast etc...we need to discuss these minor issues so people know in all probability they don't need to run to the ER, some things happen. People need to know things happen and that they are not alone and that certain feelings are normal...even bouts with depression after surgery are normal and it's okay to have a pity party, it's okay to cry.
The idiot I mentioned also accused me of being the "Boss" that almost sent me off my chair with laughter. We have no bosses in our group, no queens, no one higher or better then anyone else. We do have one Diva LOL but that's okay.We all bring something to the table...people take what they need and leave the rest.
Yes I do post every day..I love it and I have been requested to do so...it sure as hell doesn't make me BOSS. I remember Jan in my WW group, I loved her post. I loved how she always found time to address everyone and make them feel special. I don't do that, but I do address anyone who has a question or has a problem and needs support. People write and tell me they enjoy my posting and they like my attitude and if I miss a quote of the Day, I get e-mail of concern. So as long as people keep needing me or enjoying what I write, I will continue to do so. If that makes me BOSS, I accept the blame and will even go out on a limb by saying I don't intend to step down any time soon... Boss indeed, how absurd.
Again I want to thank all who have commented here and via e-mail (I am so glad I found all those comments...I told you I learn something every day...who knew?) To those of you who do not like what I write or take offense at the way I say things...I'm removing my gun from your head so feel free to avoid visiting my Blog.
( I was told recently that I "sugar coat" life...I plan to address that remark REAL soon)
I wanted to open the door for her and new butterflies like her. For the most part people did in fact "Get" me and where I was going..There were two who were a bit offended, one that thought it was totally about her (we cleared that up pretty fast) and then of course there was the one idiot, who felt a need to respond even though she has no clue. Not only is she very new, she hasn't had her surgery yet and doesn't listen to a word people say. Her threat was that she was "taking her ball and going home" actually it was just as immature, she was "going to find another group". Her kind rarely find another group willing to embrace her for very long. I wanted so much to say "don't let the door hit you in the ass" but I'd like to think I have more control of myself then she does. However I didn't see anyone begging her to stay, nor has anyone missed her. She is destined to fail, but in my heart I do hope she goes out of her way to prove me wrong. It's win/win from where I sit.
Not a day passes that I do not learn something from someone...Life is just such an extraordinary experience... I am so happy that newly minted Butterfly finally posted. It's true, we do not talk about those little things that happen. In my case totally user error. Gas pains, too much gas, pain cause by eating too fast etc...we need to discuss these minor issues so people know in all probability they don't need to run to the ER, some things happen. People need to know things happen and that they are not alone and that certain feelings are normal...even bouts with depression after surgery are normal and it's okay to have a pity party, it's okay to cry.
The idiot I mentioned also accused me of being the "Boss" that almost sent me off my chair with laughter. We have no bosses in our group, no queens, no one higher or better then anyone else. We do have one Diva LOL but that's okay.We all bring something to the table...people take what they need and leave the rest.
Yes I do post every day..I love it and I have been requested to do so...it sure as hell doesn't make me BOSS. I remember Jan in my WW group, I loved her post. I loved how she always found time to address everyone and make them feel special. I don't do that, but I do address anyone who has a question or has a problem and needs support. People write and tell me they enjoy my posting and they like my attitude and if I miss a quote of the Day, I get e-mail of concern. So as long as people keep needing me or enjoying what I write, I will continue to do so. If that makes me BOSS, I accept the blame and will even go out on a limb by saying I don't intend to step down any time soon... Boss indeed, how absurd.
Again I want to thank all who have commented here and via e-mail (I am so glad I found all those comments...I told you I learn something every day...who knew?) To those of you who do not like what I write or take offense at the way I say things...I'm removing my gun from your head so feel free to avoid visiting my Blog.
( I was told recently that I "sugar coat" life...I plan to address that remark REAL soon)
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Placing Blame
I read a post this morning from one of the girls who has been having a terrible time. No names, but the details are; She had a Band and did not do well with it (tons of stress in her life) so she recently had a revision over to RNY...Months down the road she ended up with a bowel problem and thankfully announced that it had nothing to do with her surgery.
It is unfortunate that some people get on the thread and tell their horror stories, but neglect to say it had a lot to do with THEM and nothing to do with the surgery they had. More often then not, the problems people have after surgery, would have happened even if they didn't have surgery...This brings me to the ridiculous matter of Statistics which are gathered for reasons not always connected to the subject. Torture numbers and they'll confess to anything. Statistic's are like bikini's. What they reveal is suggestive, but what they conceal is vital.
Any "Statistic's regarding this surgery are bogus as far as I'm concerned .We can't always believe what we hear and everyone that has something say, doesn't necessarily tell the entire story. Do not hang on every word as gospel (not even mine) If you have a question about something that is said...research it..ask questions but don't just sit in fear or walk away in fear.
I know of 4 people that have walked away because of the negative info they heard. It is infortunate that all that info came from one person...Sometimes we do not need to be as graphic with stories and then there are stories best left untold. Even though a story may be related to surgery...I think there are ways of explaining things that have a far more positive twist.
My surgical story is quite boring in comparison to others...But the story behind my successful surgery goes far deeper and is far more interesting. It is one that I will share with anyone that ask's....
I believe the thread is a forum of HELP..if a question is asked...answer it succincly if you can. If it doesn't apply to you,leave it alone. Lengthy explainations often confuse or even bore. Be truthful but not graphic . I do hope people realize that even though my postings, at times can be long, they are in answer to MANY people, not a litney of things about ME.
This is the place I tell my stories and share my thoughts...which by the way...I never thought so many people read LOL The other day I was looking around this BLOG site and found a place where people posted notes to me...I do apologize for not recognizing them...I never knew they were there. I see 0 comments and move on...I have gotten a lot of e-mail regarding this site..but never knew about the other messages.
I say what needs saying and those that come to read and appreciate what I say far out number those that don't. So I will continue to "tell it like it is" and suggest that people add more positive thoughts to their lives as well as to what they write....Oh and for those who come to correct my spelling and grammer...tarry on :-)
It is unfortunate that some people get on the thread and tell their horror stories, but neglect to say it had a lot to do with THEM and nothing to do with the surgery they had. More often then not, the problems people have after surgery, would have happened even if they didn't have surgery...This brings me to the ridiculous matter of Statistics which are gathered for reasons not always connected to the subject. Torture numbers and they'll confess to anything. Statistic's are like bikini's. What they reveal is suggestive, but what they conceal is vital.
Any "Statistic's regarding this surgery are bogus as far as I'm concerned .We can't always believe what we hear and everyone that has something say, doesn't necessarily tell the entire story. Do not hang on every word as gospel (not even mine) If you have a question about something that is said...research it..ask questions but don't just sit in fear or walk away in fear.
I know of 4 people that have walked away because of the negative info they heard. It is infortunate that all that info came from one person...Sometimes we do not need to be as graphic with stories and then there are stories best left untold. Even though a story may be related to surgery...I think there are ways of explaining things that have a far more positive twist.
My surgical story is quite boring in comparison to others...But the story behind my successful surgery goes far deeper and is far more interesting. It is one that I will share with anyone that ask's....
I believe the thread is a forum of HELP..if a question is asked...answer it succincly if you can. If it doesn't apply to you,leave it alone. Lengthy explainations often confuse or even bore. Be truthful but not graphic . I do hope people realize that even though my postings, at times can be long, they are in answer to MANY people, not a litney of things about ME.
This is the place I tell my stories and share my thoughts...which by the way...I never thought so many people read LOL The other day I was looking around this BLOG site and found a place where people posted notes to me...I do apologize for not recognizing them...I never knew they were there. I see 0 comments and move on...I have gotten a lot of e-mail regarding this site..but never knew about the other messages.
I say what needs saying and those that come to read and appreciate what I say far out number those that don't. So I will continue to "tell it like it is" and suggest that people add more positive thoughts to their lives as well as to what they write....Oh and for those who come to correct my spelling and grammer...tarry on :-)
Sunday, May 15, 2011
Yet another lesson
What is adversity? We all know it's meaning: Adversity: Misfortune;a state of hardship; calamity.
We all know people who have faced adversity and cried, whined and complained to no avail. We also know people who have rallied. Do we ever really give it too much thought unless it's us?
Yesterday I saw something that made me stop and think. In the center of an enormous driveway (Mine) filled with crusher run and little else, there sat a Pansy, it's little head held high, looking to the heavens and taking in the sunshine. I looked closer....Rich had sprayed for weeds a few days earlier and there on the Pansy's face were signs of the killer spray...I sat there and suddenly felt filled with emotion.My first thought was Trina a person in my group who has truly laughed in the face of adversity. Once a heavy smoker she was told to quit before surgery. It was so hard, she gave a day by day blow and I remember how I felt her pain..but there was something far more important to her and that was her health and the love of her family.Every step of the way she has faced adversity with a smile...strained as it was at times...she kept her eye on the prize and now that prize is so close she can feel it. It has become a reality.
Just like the little Pansy she popped her head up through the rock and hardship and said "NO I won't be beat down or run over...I will survive"...Two months ago I probably would have immediately thought of Janet...another flower, who through sickness, hospital visits, being a chauffeur, a nurse and and all around gofer while trying to heal from her own surgeries and then facing the sudden death of her Mother...still had time to worry about the Butterfly Project and still offered me her help with my problems......That, my friends, is a survivor. A person who will keep smiling no matter how much adversity is thrown in her path...She will still grow and hold her pretty face toward the heavens and say "NO, you won't beat me down, I will not be run over and smashed into the ground by the wheels of fate. I WILL survive".
That little flower grows healthier each day, I want to transplant it, but then I realize..it was born into this adversity and it has flourished...to plant it in a safe place could very well take away it's will to survive. Just like I have seen the strength of those in my group who maintain their strong attitude no matter what gets thrown in their way...They keep smiling. Each day when I see that flower, I think of them, I admire them, I applaud them and I smile too.
We all know people who have faced adversity and cried, whined and complained to no avail. We also know people who have rallied. Do we ever really give it too much thought unless it's us?
Yesterday I saw something that made me stop and think. In the center of an enormous driveway (Mine) filled with crusher run and little else, there sat a Pansy, it's little head held high, looking to the heavens and taking in the sunshine. I looked closer....Rich had sprayed for weeds a few days earlier and there on the Pansy's face were signs of the killer spray...I sat there and suddenly felt filled with emotion.My first thought was Trina a person in my group who has truly laughed in the face of adversity. Once a heavy smoker she was told to quit before surgery. It was so hard, she gave a day by day blow and I remember how I felt her pain..but there was something far more important to her and that was her health and the love of her family.Every step of the way she has faced adversity with a smile...strained as it was at times...she kept her eye on the prize and now that prize is so close she can feel it. It has become a reality.
Just like the little Pansy she popped her head up through the rock and hardship and said "NO I won't be beat down or run over...I will survive"...Two months ago I probably would have immediately thought of Janet...another flower, who through sickness, hospital visits, being a chauffeur, a nurse and and all around gofer while trying to heal from her own surgeries and then facing the sudden death of her Mother...still had time to worry about the Butterfly Project and still offered me her help with my problems......That, my friends, is a survivor. A person who will keep smiling no matter how much adversity is thrown in her path...She will still grow and hold her pretty face toward the heavens and say "NO, you won't beat me down, I will not be run over and smashed into the ground by the wheels of fate. I WILL survive".
That little flower grows healthier each day, I want to transplant it, but then I realize..it was born into this adversity and it has flourished...to plant it in a safe place could very well take away it's will to survive. Just like I have seen the strength of those in my group who maintain their strong attitude no matter what gets thrown in their way...They keep smiling. Each day when I see that flower, I think of them, I admire them, I applaud them and I smile too.
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
A lesson at the Pond
I believe the world is INSANE, well at least the living creatures that inhabit it.
I was sitting up at the pond this morning in deep meditation...I sensed something looking at me.
I opened my eyes and there stood Clyde.
Let me tell you about Bonnie and Clyde. They are a pair of geese that have returned to this very same pond for 8 years now (didn't think geese lived that long did you?)
I know it's them and in all probability one of them were born here. Geese tend to go to the same breeding place every year and very often it is where they were born. Perhaps Clyde just liked the looks of the place when he first chose his mate. I'll never know.
Each year they come here at this time and Bonnie proceeds to lay her eggs, usually around 10 or 12. I know where she is, but I do not share the intel with ANYONE...Clyde is the one you see, he keeps your eyes away from Bonnies nesting place and he is extremely protective.
I spoke to Clyde this morning: "Hey little buddy, I see you're back. You just never seem to learn huh? Well welcome back my feathered friend, I wish you better luck this year"
He just looked at me...didn't answer...but I didn't think he would. Clyde has always been the strong silent type.
Every year since I first met Bonnie and Clyde they have come here to breed. Every year Bonnie hatches her chicks and brings them out on the pond to show me her brood. I smile at the cute little goslings, but I secretly weep because every year is the same. I will count 10 or 12 then the next day there will be one less, the following day, one less and so on until Bonnie swims with her last surviving chick. No matter how hard both parents protect that chick the day will come when they will swim alone and finally fly away.
Einstein says that Insanity is when we do the same thing over and over and expect a different result. All creatures seem to do that, including humans...therefore we are all INSANE...but if not for trying, where would we be? We would still be eating raw meat and running around naked.
So I sit there and I applaud Bonnie and Clyde, hoping as I'm sure they are that this year will be different, perhaps this year the fox and the owl will leave their babies alone, or at least some of them.
This brought about an awareness in me...I realize I am guilty of losing weight and then putting it back on. Time and time again I repeat the process, I do well and then BANG, something happens. This surgery is not a lobotomy , so the same process can take place again if I am not mindful. The winter brought me a few extra pounds...I see Insanity setting in....so like Bonnie, I will go forward and make every effort to change the end result this time....
Even geese can teach us...we just have to be willing to learn.
I was sitting up at the pond this morning in deep meditation...I sensed something looking at me.
I opened my eyes and there stood Clyde.
Let me tell you about Bonnie and Clyde. They are a pair of geese that have returned to this very same pond for 8 years now (didn't think geese lived that long did you?)
I know it's them and in all probability one of them were born here. Geese tend to go to the same breeding place every year and very often it is where they were born. Perhaps Clyde just liked the looks of the place when he first chose his mate. I'll never know.
Each year they come here at this time and Bonnie proceeds to lay her eggs, usually around 10 or 12. I know where she is, but I do not share the intel with ANYONE...Clyde is the one you see, he keeps your eyes away from Bonnies nesting place and he is extremely protective.
I spoke to Clyde this morning: "Hey little buddy, I see you're back. You just never seem to learn huh? Well welcome back my feathered friend, I wish you better luck this year"
He just looked at me...didn't answer...but I didn't think he would. Clyde has always been the strong silent type.
Every year since I first met Bonnie and Clyde they have come here to breed. Every year Bonnie hatches her chicks and brings them out on the pond to show me her brood. I smile at the cute little goslings, but I secretly weep because every year is the same. I will count 10 or 12 then the next day there will be one less, the following day, one less and so on until Bonnie swims with her last surviving chick. No matter how hard both parents protect that chick the day will come when they will swim alone and finally fly away.
Einstein says that Insanity is when we do the same thing over and over and expect a different result. All creatures seem to do that, including humans...therefore we are all INSANE...but if not for trying, where would we be? We would still be eating raw meat and running around naked.
So I sit there and I applaud Bonnie and Clyde, hoping as I'm sure they are that this year will be different, perhaps this year the fox and the owl will leave their babies alone, or at least some of them.
This brought about an awareness in me...I realize I am guilty of losing weight and then putting it back on. Time and time again I repeat the process, I do well and then BANG, something happens. This surgery is not a lobotomy , so the same process can take place again if I am not mindful. The winter brought me a few extra pounds...I see Insanity setting in....so like Bonnie, I will go forward and make every effort to change the end result this time....
Even geese can teach us...we just have to be willing to learn.
Monday, May 9, 2011
Mothers Day Musing
It was a beautiful day. A mist covered the pond and I took a breath of clean, clear , fresh air...
It was peaceful, quiet and the perfect place to be on an early Mothers Day Morning.
I thought about my own Mom, both the good and the bad experiences flooding back to my mind.
I wondered if my own children would reflect back with such negative thoughts.
As a parent you try to do your best, you try and show children how much you love them but part of love is teaching them that life will not always be kind, they will not always get what they want, things will not always go as planned. But in the bright side you can show them that money doesn't buy love or happiness, you can spend quality time with them, doing fun things...trips to the park, zoo, fun parks, camping...all the things I didn't do as a child...not with Mom anyway.
Dad is another story for another time.
So I did think of Mom yesterday, I did say a prayer. I also thought of another "Mom" someone else's Mom who always seemed to have the answers...someone I could talk to and not feel it would turn into an argument. Someone who's words of wisdom always brought me peace.
I thought about my history with her and had to laugh...she really wasn't all that perfect. She had other problems and just like my Mom she had dark days...I would imagine as her child, I would not have been any happier then I was with my own mother.
I did not have the happiest of childhoods, I lived in fear of my mother..However, we only have one set of parents...I did the best with what God gave me and moved on. I was lucky, I had the ability, even as a child to see the cup as half full..I spent a life time turning negatives to positives..So I thanked my Mom, she made me stronger and more understanding of peoples short comings. She made me a fighter for what I believed in....because I was on my own very early on, she gave me a voice. She made me a survivor...So yesterday I did not look back on the horrors, but instead found the good in all Mom had done for me. As she got older, she changed and she was better. We had some good times and many laughs...it was easy to let go of the past and hang on to what I had then...a Mom I could love and enjoy, a Mom that only once in her life said "Honey I love you" it was the day before she died and that is what I chose to remember.
The other mother...Mother Mary, said "I love you" all the time, not just in words, but in everything she did to make people smile....That's what I will ALWAYS remember.
Never pass up an opportunity to say "I love you".
It was peaceful, quiet and the perfect place to be on an early Mothers Day Morning.
I thought about my own Mom, both the good and the bad experiences flooding back to my mind.
I wondered if my own children would reflect back with such negative thoughts.
As a parent you try to do your best, you try and show children how much you love them but part of love is teaching them that life will not always be kind, they will not always get what they want, things will not always go as planned. But in the bright side you can show them that money doesn't buy love or happiness, you can spend quality time with them, doing fun things...trips to the park, zoo, fun parks, camping...all the things I didn't do as a child...not with Mom anyway.
Dad is another story for another time.
So I did think of Mom yesterday, I did say a prayer. I also thought of another "Mom" someone else's Mom who always seemed to have the answers...someone I could talk to and not feel it would turn into an argument. Someone who's words of wisdom always brought me peace.
I thought about my history with her and had to laugh...she really wasn't all that perfect. She had other problems and just like my Mom she had dark days...I would imagine as her child, I would not have been any happier then I was with my own mother.
I did not have the happiest of childhoods, I lived in fear of my mother..However, we only have one set of parents...I did the best with what God gave me and moved on. I was lucky, I had the ability, even as a child to see the cup as half full..I spent a life time turning negatives to positives..So I thanked my Mom, she made me stronger and more understanding of peoples short comings. She made me a fighter for what I believed in....because I was on my own very early on, she gave me a voice. She made me a survivor...So yesterday I did not look back on the horrors, but instead found the good in all Mom had done for me. As she got older, she changed and she was better. We had some good times and many laughs...it was easy to let go of the past and hang on to what I had then...a Mom I could love and enjoy, a Mom that only once in her life said "Honey I love you" it was the day before she died and that is what I chose to remember.
The other mother...Mother Mary, said "I love you" all the time, not just in words, but in everything she did to make people smile....That's what I will ALWAYS remember.
Never pass up an opportunity to say "I love you".
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Oh What a Trip
(only read this is you are relaxed, in a funny mood and have some spare time on your hands)
Who the hell ever heard of Paducah KY ? Obviously Mother Nature and she was hell bent on making sure the country knew EXACTLY where it was.
I must say it was a bit unnerving when I heard , prior to my flight, that Paducah was bracing for Tornado's, added to the news was that Nashville was also having horrible weather. Having not flown in some years, this news was not sitting well, but on the other hand 'nothing was going to stop my Quilt Show week with the girls...NOTHING'.
Up early on Monday morn and headed for the airport in Binghamton, it was dreary, a bit rainy but I was unfazed. Mother nature and I would come to terms :-)
Okay, so as I sat in the terminal (good name by the way) watching the fog roll in it seemed like M.N. (mother nature) might win this round. The fog had also embraced the airport in Philly and it was closed to arrivals. So even when our fog lifted, we still waited.
Hooray!! 9:30 and we are finally boarding. I have been told to try for the 12:30 stand-by, but I was definatly on the 4:30 flight to Nashville. Considering I was suppose to be there by 9:30 am I wasn't all that happy.
Philly wasn't as bad as I had suspected, my gates were all close. I waited at gate F23 for standby and Ron Howard (an american soldier) introduced himself (he was on stand-by also) He helped pass the time and I learned about the mission they were on, equipmet that had arrived before he did and how most of the men lived in Philly and had already gone home to relax. he on the other hand, was bound and determined to move forward and think positive. It hurt me to learn that military personal do not have priority when it comes to stand-by. That those paying for Gold and Silver boarding passes have more priority. I guess paying with your life for this countries freedom falls way below the priorities of the wealthy. I told him if they called me for standby, he could have my seat. That didn't happen so off we went to F 27 to wait for the next plane.
It suddenly occurred to me that this was just wrong. I asked if I could give my ticket to this soldier and take the next flight. I was told it was against FAA rules and regs. so I asked to speak to a supervisor. (I also asked Ron if I was embarrassing him and he informed me that his wife was a fighter too, he was used to it LOL) When I spoke to the Super, he informed me about the Gold and Silver (which I fully understand) however, I said rather loudly "This man is willing to give his life for this country, I think a Gold or Silver would be more then willing to give a seat....how pathetic is this country when we can't recognize the difference between sacrifice and the God almighty dollar" people began to clap...I won that round...Ron was told he was #one on standby. We arrived in Nashville together... weather was great and things were looking up (or so it seemed)
I was so very proud, when Stef, Bob and I had a bite to eat. A soldier and his family also stopped to grab a bite and Bob picked up the check...That's the way things should be and all too often aren't.
Joyce and I had a great nights sleep in Nashville and Jodi and Stef were delivered to our front door. Let the fun begin!!! We had heard about the Tornado warnings still in Paducah and it was raining off and on, but we were undeterred..we were together and that's all that mattered.
Laughing most of the way, the trip to KY was uneventful.We arrived at Kentucky Dam Village to find that they still had not found an extra night. It seems that the reservation I had for a year for 4 days, was suddenly changed to 3 days. They promised to "work on it"...I am a positive thinker and refused to let it ruin my vacation.
Our 3 bdrm ,2 bath cottage was stange. 2 bdrms were down stairs with a bath and one bdrm was up stairs with a bath(main floor) The girls were nice enough to give me the mainfloor room because of my knee's. One of the Bdrms had a wet floor, that didn't sit too well.
The cottage kitchen was not well stocked and the toilets had to be flushed twice...still...we were here and we couldn't wait for the show. As always we spent our first day going to Hancocks of Paducah (a huge fabric place), we also hit Hobby Lobby and had a ball and then bought food. AS we headed home it began to rain but little could be done to dampen our spirits...We were just too damn happy!!! With shoes off Jodie and Stef waded through the water to hand us the groceries..yup it sure was raining :-) WE could hear the tornado sirens in the distance..'should we be concerned?'
Because of the "shows" close proximity to the Ohio River, the venue had been changed. Part of the show was the same as the year before, but then other vendors had been moved to vacant stores. To say it was spread out would be an understatement. I was thankful the ride was not as long as last years, the weather , the wind, were all just a little something added to the stress. The layout of the main part of Paducah is pretty simple and it would be difficult to get lost unless you got off the beaten path, so getting around wasn't all that difficult and we were able to hit the vendors...OFTEN!! It rained on and off and a few storms blew through, but nothing dampend our spirits...not even a smelly bedroom (which we later found out was due to the water).
It bothered me that we were paying full price for a cottage that was far less then it should have been. Finally, when a roach was found (something we had NEVER seen for as long as we had been going to Paducah) that was totally unacceptable. I called and asked to speak to the Park manager, Scott. I explained what had happened with our reservation, how the cabin had fallen short of our standards and told him I felt compensation was in order. To my surprise he agreeded with me. He said he would work to make it all right . I got a call on my cell that afternoon that we would be moving to Barkly Lake for the last night (not perfect solution but okay).When we got home there was a huge platter of cookies and strawberries and a basket full of all kinds of goodies, (Mugs, candy, keychains, pens etc.) with a sign "Compliments of the Staff of KDV".
The next morning as we prepared to pack and leave for Barkley Lake I called to ask if I could leave some things in their refrig..It was then that Monica apologized for what seemed like an even bigger problem then they realized...I told her we just didn't want to drive all the way to the lake and then all the way back to the show. 5 min. later she called to tell me "we are keeping you right here"..we were moved to the cottages we LOVE and were so happy we jumped around like a bunch of school girls.
In the process of moving acroos the hwy to our new home, the latch popped open and one of the bags fell out...wine glasses broke and my prescription pills had gotten run over and looked like road kill. Jodie and I salvaged the road kill and LOAO (she had left her same meds home so we were sharing)
We got to spend time working on projects on our screened in porch and we had a relaxing breakfast out in the sunshine. Even Mother Nature seemed happy...It may have been one of our more eventful trips, but it was "all good". Not only did Scott give us 1/2 off our last night, but also gave me a gift certificate for a free night next year. I definatly kept his promise to make it RIGHT.
The night before "take off" Joyce and I returned the car and got boarding passes for the next day...I repacked my luggage more neatly and we were good to go. It stormed and I got deathly sick...but by morning (5am for me) I felt a little better. The cab had not been called as promised, but it got there quick.I had plenty of time...got to the window and was asked for "picture ID", looked for license...un packed luggage...GONE!! Now on the verge of hysteria because I'm being told I can not fly without my license..I show all the other paperwork I have..I hit them with logic (how did I fly here if I didn't show ID in the first place) they push me throught to security. Thank God the TSA guy was a sweetheart...I showed him other ID I had and he allowed me to pass over to the security check. off with the shoes and though the xray go me and my bags...PROBLEM! I am told I have a weapon and they must unpack my bag. I hear my name being called to gate 10, but I can't leave until they find the "weapon"..The search is on and I'm curious...weapon???Head security guy walks over as the woman pulls out this "dagger" ( a letter opener with a crown on top. A gift from Stef) I hear my name and "last call". I tell them they can keep it, just let me go...but they allow me to have it back and qickly help me pack my bag....not quite fast enough. I arrive at my gate just on time to see my plane pull away from the gate :-(
I am told I will arrive in Binghamton at 9:30 that evening...it is now 7:15 a.m.. I begin to weep..It is raining, I am alone and face hours of waiting. NO!!! I can't think like that, it's not me...I walk up to the desk "Please check every flight, there HAS to be room"...he checks, checks again nope... I will get on a 2pm flight and then a 7:40 flight to Binghamton. Please I say, check one more time, perhaps there is a cancellation... I'm sure he was placationg me at that point...but sure enough he found a cacellation on the 9:40 flight our of Nashville and a 4:40 flight out of Philly...I'd be home by 6 pm...not exactly the 1 pm I had hoped for but it was better then 9:30..
So the trip that tried very hard to become the trip from HELL, ended as it began, with things working out. The rains stopped and I flew home in sunny skies...a bit tired and worn, but looking forward to next year and meeting the girls in Paduach :-)
So what does any of this have to do with WLS ? Not a damn thing other then the fact that Attitude is everything!!!
Who the hell ever heard of Paducah KY ? Obviously Mother Nature and she was hell bent on making sure the country knew EXACTLY where it was.
I must say it was a bit unnerving when I heard , prior to my flight, that Paducah was bracing for Tornado's, added to the news was that Nashville was also having horrible weather. Having not flown in some years, this news was not sitting well, but on the other hand 'nothing was going to stop my Quilt Show week with the girls...NOTHING'.
Up early on Monday morn and headed for the airport in Binghamton, it was dreary, a bit rainy but I was unfazed. Mother nature and I would come to terms :-)
Okay, so as I sat in the terminal (good name by the way) watching the fog roll in it seemed like M.N. (mother nature) might win this round. The fog had also embraced the airport in Philly and it was closed to arrivals. So even when our fog lifted, we still waited.
Hooray!! 9:30 and we are finally boarding. I have been told to try for the 12:30 stand-by, but I was definatly on the 4:30 flight to Nashville. Considering I was suppose to be there by 9:30 am I wasn't all that happy.
Philly wasn't as bad as I had suspected, my gates were all close. I waited at gate F23 for standby and Ron Howard (an american soldier) introduced himself (he was on stand-by also) He helped pass the time and I learned about the mission they were on, equipmet that had arrived before he did and how most of the men lived in Philly and had already gone home to relax. he on the other hand, was bound and determined to move forward and think positive. It hurt me to learn that military personal do not have priority when it comes to stand-by. That those paying for Gold and Silver boarding passes have more priority. I guess paying with your life for this countries freedom falls way below the priorities of the wealthy. I told him if they called me for standby, he could have my seat. That didn't happen so off we went to F 27 to wait for the next plane.
It suddenly occurred to me that this was just wrong. I asked if I could give my ticket to this soldier and take the next flight. I was told it was against FAA rules and regs. so I asked to speak to a supervisor. (I also asked Ron if I was embarrassing him and he informed me that his wife was a fighter too, he was used to it LOL) When I spoke to the Super, he informed me about the Gold and Silver (which I fully understand) however, I said rather loudly "This man is willing to give his life for this country, I think a Gold or Silver would be more then willing to give a seat....how pathetic is this country when we can't recognize the difference between sacrifice and the God almighty dollar" people began to clap...I won that round...Ron was told he was #one on standby. We arrived in Nashville together... weather was great and things were looking up (or so it seemed)
I was so very proud, when Stef, Bob and I had a bite to eat. A soldier and his family also stopped to grab a bite and Bob picked up the check...That's the way things should be and all too often aren't.
Joyce and I had a great nights sleep in Nashville and Jodi and Stef were delivered to our front door. Let the fun begin!!! We had heard about the Tornado warnings still in Paducah and it was raining off and on, but we were undeterred..we were together and that's all that mattered.
Laughing most of the way, the trip to KY was uneventful.We arrived at Kentucky Dam Village to find that they still had not found an extra night. It seems that the reservation I had for a year for 4 days, was suddenly changed to 3 days. They promised to "work on it"...I am a positive thinker and refused to let it ruin my vacation.
Our 3 bdrm ,2 bath cottage was stange. 2 bdrms were down stairs with a bath and one bdrm was up stairs with a bath(main floor) The girls were nice enough to give me the mainfloor room because of my knee's. One of the Bdrms had a wet floor, that didn't sit too well.
The cottage kitchen was not well stocked and the toilets had to be flushed twice...still...we were here and we couldn't wait for the show. As always we spent our first day going to Hancocks of Paducah (a huge fabric place), we also hit Hobby Lobby and had a ball and then bought food. AS we headed home it began to rain but little could be done to dampen our spirits...We were just too damn happy!!! With shoes off Jodie and Stef waded through the water to hand us the groceries..yup it sure was raining :-) WE could hear the tornado sirens in the distance..'should we be concerned?'
Because of the "shows" close proximity to the Ohio River, the venue had been changed. Part of the show was the same as the year before, but then other vendors had been moved to vacant stores. To say it was spread out would be an understatement. I was thankful the ride was not as long as last years, the weather , the wind, were all just a little something added to the stress. The layout of the main part of Paducah is pretty simple and it would be difficult to get lost unless you got off the beaten path, so getting around wasn't all that difficult and we were able to hit the vendors...OFTEN!! It rained on and off and a few storms blew through, but nothing dampend our spirits...not even a smelly bedroom (which we later found out was due to the water).
It bothered me that we were paying full price for a cottage that was far less then it should have been. Finally, when a roach was found (something we had NEVER seen for as long as we had been going to Paducah) that was totally unacceptable. I called and asked to speak to the Park manager, Scott. I explained what had happened with our reservation, how the cabin had fallen short of our standards and told him I felt compensation was in order. To my surprise he agreeded with me. He said he would work to make it all right . I got a call on my cell that afternoon that we would be moving to Barkly Lake for the last night (not perfect solution but okay).When we got home there was a huge platter of cookies and strawberries and a basket full of all kinds of goodies, (Mugs, candy, keychains, pens etc.) with a sign "Compliments of the Staff of KDV".
The next morning as we prepared to pack and leave for Barkley Lake I called to ask if I could leave some things in their refrig..It was then that Monica apologized for what seemed like an even bigger problem then they realized...I told her we just didn't want to drive all the way to the lake and then all the way back to the show. 5 min. later she called to tell me "we are keeping you right here"..we were moved to the cottages we LOVE and were so happy we jumped around like a bunch of school girls.
In the process of moving acroos the hwy to our new home, the latch popped open and one of the bags fell out...wine glasses broke and my prescription pills had gotten run over and looked like road kill. Jodie and I salvaged the road kill and LOAO (she had left her same meds home so we were sharing)
We got to spend time working on projects on our screened in porch and we had a relaxing breakfast out in the sunshine. Even Mother Nature seemed happy...It may have been one of our more eventful trips, but it was "all good". Not only did Scott give us 1/2 off our last night, but also gave me a gift certificate for a free night next year. I definatly kept his promise to make it RIGHT.
The night before "take off" Joyce and I returned the car and got boarding passes for the next day...I repacked my luggage more neatly and we were good to go. It stormed and I got deathly sick...but by morning (5am for me) I felt a little better. The cab had not been called as promised, but it got there quick.I had plenty of time...got to the window and was asked for "picture ID", looked for license...un packed luggage...GONE!! Now on the verge of hysteria because I'm being told I can not fly without my license..I show all the other paperwork I have..I hit them with logic (how did I fly here if I didn't show ID in the first place) they push me throught to security. Thank God the TSA guy was a sweetheart...I showed him other ID I had and he allowed me to pass over to the security check. off with the shoes and though the xray go me and my bags...PROBLEM! I am told I have a weapon and they must unpack my bag. I hear my name being called to gate 10, but I can't leave until they find the "weapon"..The search is on and I'm curious...weapon???Head security guy walks over as the woman pulls out this "dagger" ( a letter opener with a crown on top. A gift from Stef) I hear my name and "last call". I tell them they can keep it, just let me go...but they allow me to have it back and qickly help me pack my bag....not quite fast enough. I arrive at my gate just on time to see my plane pull away from the gate :-(
I am told I will arrive in Binghamton at 9:30 that evening...it is now 7:15 a.m.. I begin to weep..It is raining, I am alone and face hours of waiting. NO!!! I can't think like that, it's not me...I walk up to the desk "Please check every flight, there HAS to be room"...he checks, checks again nope... I will get on a 2pm flight and then a 7:40 flight to Binghamton. Please I say, check one more time, perhaps there is a cancellation... I'm sure he was placationg me at that point...but sure enough he found a cacellation on the 9:40 flight our of Nashville and a 4:40 flight out of Philly...I'd be home by 6 pm...not exactly the 1 pm I had hoped for but it was better then 9:30..
So the trip that tried very hard to become the trip from HELL, ended as it began, with things working out. The rains stopped and I flew home in sunny skies...a bit tired and worn, but looking forward to next year and meeting the girls in Paduach :-)
So what does any of this have to do with WLS ? Not a damn thing other then the fact that Attitude is everything!!!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)