Being Social

I forgot to mention that on Monday (the day I got my "trial run"), this reflection (my "Minute Meditations") was in my inbox--"Christ does not give a mission without supplying the means to accomplish it." —from Saint of the Day Um, yeah, how's THAT for timing?!

Yesterday, I went to a luncheon with my mom and some of her co-workers. Her boss and his wife were big donors for the event to honor child advocates and benefit a facility that works with child abuse victims. So, we sat at the "head table" next to the speaker and "Master of Ceremonies". The speaker actually came and introduced herself to our table before her talk. The child abuse statistics, particularly the sexual abuse statistics were tough to swallow. The speaker travels all around the country sharing her story of surviving sexual abuse. While her story was awful on so many levels, the "worst" part is that her mother died at age 88 not believing that the abuse ever occurred. Since we were at a "donor table", we got autographed copies of her book. It looks like something I should read...and from her presentation, it sounded like it could benefit everyone to know how to help victims, and protect people from becoming victims... I am glad my mom invited me to go with her because it definitely was a good talk to hear.

After the luncheon, I picked up shamrock shakes for my sister and me. It was a nice day, so I helped her get the boys bundled up and we went for a short walk. I stayed for a while and visited with them (her nephew is kind of a fuss bucket...I feel kinda bad for her to deal with that every day!) I went to Curves and then actually cooked dinner :o)

This morning, I led my last meeting as chair of the unit committee...yay! It wasn't NEARLY as stressful today knowing we had an extra hour. After two years of fighting against the clock to get stuff accomplished, our manager decided to make the meetings three hours instead of two. Gee, thanks for nothing! We probably could have gotten done in 2 hours and 15 minutes this morning, but had ordered pizza and spent a bit of extra time discussion topics that wouldn't have necessarily needed that much time. I'll still get to "stop by" the meetings to give my report from the other committee I am a member of, but won't have to stay the whole time. That will be nice (except for the slight decrease in pay since I won't have those extra meetings!)

After the meeting, I talked to my manager for a little while. Then, I went to the grocery store (with a ton of coupons from coupons com ...um, REALLY glad I know about THAT site now!) before going to the dentist. I had them give me a couple kid toothbrushes to keep on hand :o) In between my dentist and EYE appointment, I got a call from my caseworker (I KNOW!) She actually was looking for someone to do "respite care" for a baby while the foster parents go to a foster parent conference. It's for a Thursday/Friday/Saturday and of COURSE I was scheduled to work and from the looks of the schedule, it didn't look like ANYONE could switch with me! So, I told her to keep looking while I kept looking. I took a "shot in the dark" and called the nurse who was really nice to me on Monday to see if she would change Wednesday for Friday and she said yes! I called the caseworker back and said that will work! I think that will be a good way to see exactly how "ready" I am :o)

I went to the eye doctor (and had to get a new contact...boo!) Then, I had a "decision" to make. My choir practice was canceled because the school kids were doing "The Wizard of Oz". I thought that would be cute/fun since I know so many of those kids and their parents (and the music teacher was MY music teacher!) However, I also got an invitation to attend a Catholic young adult gathering at a local restaurant.

I decided I should go be social with people my own age...and so I went.

I think many of the people in this group get together regularly. I have done a couple things, but it has probably been five years (there was this guy that I think liked me and I not-so-much felt the same way, so I pretty much avoided gatherings with that group). I decided to give it a whirl because I actually had forgotten about him and wasn't exactly sure WHO would be at this gathering. I walked in with another girl who obviously was alone. I said something to that effect and sat across from her. The speaker was a "younger" Young Adult who discovered she had been called to the religious life and will begin her training later this spring. Afterwords, we had "discussion questions" for the little small groups at our tables. Awkward?! Well, a little bit, but I'm a talker and I had some things to add to the discussion. There ended up being three girls and two guys in our "group" and I guess I would call it "interesting"...because I try to be a person accepting of ALL types of people, and respect those who are not like me. [One of the guys was really nice, the other guy seemed pretty shy. One of the girls seemed a little "socially awkward" and the other seemed a little judgmental. And me, when, you know I'm "perfect"...ha ha ha!] One of the girls asked if I was on facebook...okay, no harm in becoming fb friends. I did end up talking to an OB/Gyn who just happened to be across from me and one seat over...only unfortunately in a different "group". She and I did chat for a little bit since she knows one of the pediatricians I know. As I was leaving, I ran into "the guy" and I was "friendly". He mentioned something about wanting to call me and I was like "oh, I'm pretty busy these days, but maybe I'll see you at a future event or something..." I also talked to the speaker and she asked for my email so I could come pray with her and some other women some time...

As I was driving home, I wondered why this "spiritual time" was so much of an awkward, not especially enjoyable time, even when it was a "social event". I usually enjoy going to those kinds of things alone (eg. I went to a couple Natalie Grant concerts alone and to the Selah concert alone and on Thanksgiving retreats and fund raising events...) I am feeling bad because the thought that keeps running through my mind is "you're not better than them!" as if I'm trying to convince myself, but I know that everyone is special and no one is quite like me ;o)

I stopped at my mom and dad's on the way home so my dad could mail a package for me. Also, they were baby-sitting my nephew who learned how to crawl today!! It was adorable to see him crawling, especially since he WASN'T crawling when I saw him yesterday!!

I'm sure if I had chosen to go to the musical, I would have had a GREAT time. However, I had to give this social gathering a try. I'm not sure I will be super excited about another event with them, but another day, another experience, so who knows!

After three days "off", back to work tomorrow.
Good night :o)

Trial Run

It's been a crazy couple of days, but "good timing" that my last post was "Ready...or Not" because I got a "trial run" yesterday to find out...

Backing up to after my last post, I looked ahead at the Mass readings before I went to bed (in my attempt to do more of THAT kind of reading during Lent...at the present time, I have no idea where that little book of daily Lenten reflections is, so I'm not doing THAT great!) I was, however, excited about the Gospel reading being the "Transfiguration" (we read from Luke 9:28-36) because the choir sings one of my favorite songs every year when that story is read. I tried to "G00gle" it because it is SO pretty, but had no luck with that. And, me playing it on piano doesn't give the whole effect because the refrain is sung in 5 parts and it is AWESOME! (FYI picture is of my church...I sort of messed with the colors more than I should have for someone who has no clue about that sort of thing, but the sky was still blue as the sun was setting and I thought it was cool...)

Here are the lyrics anyway (since I'm all about "music and lyrics" these days...ha!):
Refrain: We behold the splendor of God, shining on the face of Jesus. We behold the splendor of God, shining on the face of the Son.
Verse 1: And oh, how His beauty transforms us, the wonder of Presence abiding. Transparent hearts give reflection of Tabor's light within, of Tabor's light within.
Verse 2: Jesus Lord of Glory, Jesus beloved Son. Oh, how good to be with You, how good to share Your light, how good to share Your light.

Anyway, that was my Sunday morning excitement...ha! Then, I went to a first birthday party for my Godson (and watched the US-Canada Hockey game). From there, I went to my grandma's since my dad convinced her to do "family dinner" this week. I didn't stay long and left with my dad to watch his basketball team play. I DVRed the Closing Ceremonies and watched most of it before going to bed since I had to work again yesterday.

Even though I had just worked on Saturday, I didn't get my two patients back yesterday. They were super "low-maintenance" and I was pretty bored on Saturday so I guess that was okay to let a new nurse have them. However, that left me with one patient who was reported to "use the call light a lot", one patient who was described as "NEEDY!!!" (parents AND patient), and the one patient I "picked" who is a "frequent flyer" that was pretty sick and the family can be "emotionally needy" (I have a very good relationship with them and prefer being the ones to deal with them if given a choice because I know they like me and other people aren't quite as patient/kind...not to pat myself on the back or anything...just wait...ha!) Anyway, thank goodness we had an "extra" nurse and a nursing assistant for most of the day otherwise I would be in the insane asylum right now. Even still, I thought I might hurt someone if the call light was pushed one more time...I know, that it is my job to take care of people. I know that YOUR child is the only one that matters and is the absolute MOST important person...I get that, really I do, and I try my very hardest to make sure that EVERYONE is the MOST important, but sometimes you may have to wait your turn. I'm "all about" giving people the benefit of the doubt because being in a hospital with your child is not on anyone's list of things they want to do. Thank GOODNESS I did not have to go back to work today because I seriously would have had to change patients! What was REALLY nice though was that the relief charge nurse waited until I was done (at nearly 8:00!) and walked out with me. I would probably consider her "not one of my favorites", but I will definitely remember that because it wasn't necessary, but super thoughtful!

When I got to my car, I checked my voicemail while it was warming up. It was not a number I recognized, so I had no idea what it would be regarding. I had missed a call from the case worker earlier in the day letting me know we need to start my foster parent license renewal...even though I've been licensed for less than a month...ha! I was surprised to hear her voice on the the message letting me know she had a potential placement for me. I quickly called her back (as I sat in the work parking lot!) to get more details. She said she had sisters who were 3 and 5 who needed placement immediately. I was today, tomorrow, and Thursday (besides a meeting and appointments) so I thought that would be time to get the logistics of day care/school/transportation figured out. However, I wanted to check with my parents and their willingness to help with some of those things. I first talked to my dad who said older, non-medical sounded like a good place to start. He thought he would be able to help with school transportation for the older girl. I then called my mom who was in shock, but also "shockingly" supportive and pretty much said "go for it". So, I called her back and let her know that I could take them. She said she would let me know more details and also check to see if other placement had been found in the meantime. Then, I sent a "mass" text to a couple of my "near and dear" asking for prayers...especially since I was freaking out about how cluttered my house remained!

As soon as I got home (good thing I live close!), I started throwing away junk from my car and moving things around so the back seat was clear. Then, I came in the house and started clearing the clutter in the guest room, picking up some of the scattered items, responding to texts, etc. when I got another call from the caseworker. She asked if I was "freaking out", because I didn't need to...false alarm, but a good trial run for sure! (There were apparently more than two children in the family and they found a home that could take all of them which is better for the kids.) I "vowed" to pick up the living room today...make that tomorrow...yeah, I had the fire under my rear briefly, but apparently it went out quickly!

I got up this morning and sent my LAST agenda for the committee I have been leading for the past two years. That wasn't a "bittersweet" occasion, but Thursday might be a little sad (although I will have to stop by the meetings to give a report from the other committee I am on).

Then, I met with my counselor. Hard to believe that I have been meeting with her since September, but it has helped SO much! I haven't even cried during our last two sessions! She asked me if I just wanted her to be "on call", but I think that with my job and the changes I may be making my life, regular counseling is a good idea (especially with someone I really like!) So, we made an appointment for a little over a month from now, knowing that I can call if I need to see her sooner.

From there, I picked up Panera and went to visit my "favorite" charge nurse and her two-month-old baby. He was sleeping when I got there, so she and I ate and visited and she gave me a tour of her house (it is SO nice and SPOTLESS...she is not welcome in my house any time soon...ha!) When he woke up, I got to snuggle with him for a little while...so much fun :o) I really miss her, but she is SO not ready to come back to work and I don't blame her! She will be working on the weekends, so I guess I will have to consider if I want to work extra weekend shifts just so I can work with her!

I was going to visit my sister, but was kind of tired so I called and let her know that I would come tomorrow (and bring us Shamrock shakes :o) ). I did go and work out, even though I was wearing my jeans...not such a great idea, but better than not going!

I did a few things around my house, cooked dinner, then vegged out and watched TV before going to watch my dad's basketball team play (again). When I got home, I watched my DVR of the Biggest Loser and the new show Parenthood (that TOTALLY made me cry a FEW times! I didn't see the movie, so was not expecting that!)

So, yesterday was a "trial run"...and if I had ANY question (which I didn't) about how much support I have been blessed with, I do not now! Granted, the "next call" will be different, but I know that I will have well-wishes, prayers, love, and support...just like I did when I got my first call a month ago!

Well, it's nearly 1:00 and if I want to make some progress on my living room before I go to a luncheon with my mom, I'd better go to sleep. It's been pretty crazy around here, but I will say that I did appreciate the fact that I ended up being able to sleep in today :o) I'm still stocking up on sleep while I can!

Good night.

Ready...or not?

So...I had four days off when I did absolutely nothing productive, had one night of not-so-stellar sleep and I had to d.r.a.g. myself out of bed this morning as if I hadn't slept in days... I've been talking about having my foster parent license quite a bit recently, mostly receiving great words of encouragement and support. While I have no idea where the story will go after "having a license", I am beginning to realize that I really could end up having a child placed in my home (I know, shocking how that works sometimes...ha!) I have been asked if I am "ready". I guess that is sort of a "loaded question"...I mean, can you REALLY be ready for something that is going to completely change your world (even if you have 9 months to plan for it!)?!

Ready?! Well, I have a pack 'n play...and a full-size bed in my guest room. The guest room also has PLATES hanging on the wall...and shelves with "nick knacks"...and two chairs. I have a completely open basement with some toys, books, play areas...and the cords to my wireless router and cable Internet connection. I no longer have carpet in the kitchen (good start!)...but the living room leaves much to be desired in the child-proof department (papers, books, cords breakable items...). I have a gate to "gate off" the junk-room-that-is-supposed-to-be-a-scrap-booking room. I have an infant seat, a convertible/toddler car seat, and a booster seat...although the installation directions seemed beyond the realm of my understanding.

My home is warm (well, it would be if someone else was here with me who wanted it to be warm). My arms are open. My heart is big. I love children (and have been taking care of "other peoples' children" my whole life). I have faith.

Ready...or not? What a tough question. Some days I would say "yes", other days I would say "not exactly". Ready for what? Ready for an infant? a toddler? a pre-school-er? an older child? Ready to deal with how the circumstances leading up to the arrival in my home has affected him/her? Ready to give love that may not have been felt? Ready to provide "basic needs" for someone who hasn't had them? Ready to have it not be all about me anymore? Ready to take on a new role as "mom"?

So many questions, the answers are unknown or ever-changing. One answer I do know, however, and that is I know who will be there in the good times and in the hard times, and every time in between...lots of "whos" and one Who.

In the mean time, I will stock up on sleep ;o)
Good night.

8 months

I can't believe my nephew turned eight months old yesterday! I went out and visited him and my sister (and his cousin that my sister baby-sits). He is such a happy boy and so much fun :o)

I stayed up to finish watching the ice skating last night, so went to bed pretty late considering I had to get up early for the first time all week. For some reason, I could NOT fall asleep! I was even playing nice quiet music to try and relax me (that skating was pretty exciting!) It was a 70 minute CD and I was awake when it stopped (I may have dozed off here and there, but definitely did not sleep!) It was SO annoying because I knew that 5:30 would come early! Then, it was a super slow day at work...not exactly something to COMPLAIN about, but it did make for a longer day. I need to bring some things to do tomorrow since I will have the same patients back tomorrow.

I went and watched my dad's basketball team play tonight right after work. I knew I would be hungry, so I stopped at L0ng J0hn Silvers on the way to the game...even though one of my "Lenten things" is to put good things into my body and fried fish, hush puppies, and fries is not so much on that line. Also, the people serving me my food in the drive thru looked mighty sketchy (I know, shouldn't judge a book by it's cover) but I suppose that's the "risk" you take when you eat food from somewhere other than home (or someone else's home).

Well, since I have to work again tomorrow, I shouldn't stay up much longer. Good thing it doesn't look like I missed anything on the Olympics today that I need to watch on DVR.

Good night :o)

More Music

I've been hearing this song on the radio and wanted to post the "music and lyrics" so I have it to refer back to when I need to hear these words :o) It also fits because I started reading this book today that seems really over my head. It is about faith/religion and I'm going to try and read it, even though I only got through about 15 pages this afternoon (could be that it was during the time I decided to take a bath because taking a bath was a "good" excuse to not clean/organize)

Music and lyrics is nothing new to my posts, so I decided to look back on a couple other posts that centered on music so they may be easier to find in the future :o)

Unredeemed

The cruelest words, the coldest heart
The deepest wounds, the endless dark
The lonely ache, the burning tears
The bitter nights, the wasted years

Life breaks and falls apart
But we know these are

[Chorus]
Places where grace is soon to be so amazing
They may be unfulfilled, they may be unrestored
But when anything that’s shattered is laid before the Lord
Just watch and see it will not be
Unredeemed

For every choice that led to shame
And all the love that never came
For every vow that someone broke
And every life that gave up hope

We live in the shadow of the fall
But the cross says these are all …

[Chorus]

Places where grace is soon to be so amazing
They may be unfulfilled, they may be unrestored
But you never know the miracles the Father has in store
Just watch and see it will not be
Just watch and see it will not be

I was an absolute "mess" when I posted this song the first time. Now, I just belt it out in the car since that is the CD that I play whenever a commercial comes on. It proved useful when I sang at the top of my lungs on the way to Mass on Saturday night. The woman in front of me told me she "liked my voice"...thank you Amy Perry for "warming me up" LOL! (I'm not a soloist my any means or even have a small choir voice, but I do blend well with people who DO have great singing voices...ha! It was a really nice compliment, though, and I just took it :o))

Also, still a fan of these lyrics (and music)...

You're Not Alone ~Meredith Andrews
I searched for love
When the night came and it closed in
I was alone
but you found me where I was hiding
and though I'll never ever be the same
It was the sweetest voice that called my name
singing

You're not alone
For I am here
let me wipe away every fear
My love I've never left your side
I have seen you through the darkest night
and I'm the one that's loved you all your life
All of your life

You cry yourself to sleep
cause the hurt is real
and the pain cuts deep
All hope seems lost
With heartache your closest friend
and everyone else long gone

You've had to face the music on your own
but there is a sweeter song that calls you home
**sayin'

You're not alone
For I am here
let me wipe away your every tear
My love I've never left your side
I have seen you through the darkest nights
And I'm the one that's love you all your life
All your life

Faithful and true... Forever
For my love will carry you....

You're not alone
for I... I am here
let me wipe away every fear... Oh yeah
My love I've never left your side
I have seen you through your darkest nights
Your darkest nights
And I'm the one that's loved you all your life
All of your life

Today, my friend's baby turned one. Since he is my "Godson" and I was off today, I decided to go visit. My friend even invited me to have dinner with them. It was fun to see her. His party will be on Sunday. I did get a quick picture with him, but it isn't on my computer yet. So, here's from last year :o)

Another day at home that I was pretty unproductive. I'm off again tomorrow, but plan to go visit my nephew (and would like to go visit one of my co-workers who is on maternity leave). So, I need to get some things done...considering I have now been off for three entire days! It's also going to be hard to get up early on Friday since I've been staying up late and getting up late! I'd better "hit the hay!"

:o) Good night.

Music and Lyrics

Legacy

I don't mind if you've got something nice to say about me
And I enjoy an accolade like the rest
You could take my picture and hang it in a gallery
Of all the who's who and so-n-so's that used to be the best
At such 'n such...it wouldn't matter much

I won't lie, it feels alright to see your name in lights
We all need an "Atta boy" or "Atta girl"
But in the end I'd like to hang my hat on more besides
the temporary trappings of this world

Chorus:
I want to leave a legacy
How will they remember me?
Did I choose to love?
Did I point to you enough to make a mark on things?
I want to leave an offering
A child of mercy and grace who blessed Your name unapologetically
And leave that kind of legacy

I don't have to look too far or too long awhile
To make a lengthy list of all that I enjoy
It's an accumulating trinket and a treasure pile
Where moth and rust, thieves and such will soon destroy

Chorus

Not well traveled, not well read, not well-to-do or well bred
Just want to hear instead, "Well done" good and faithful one

Chorus
______________________

This song has been playing in my head the past few days (well, the first part anyway...I had to search to remember the rest of the lyrics). I am a big fan of song lyrics (and quotes!) and love when they say what I couldn't find the words to say.

Last Thursday, I found out that an elementary school classmate died suddenly. Although I hadn't seen him in probably 20 years, it is still unbelievable. When I mentioned it at choir practice last week, I was reminded that he had lost a brother to SIDS (I remember him talking about his brother...we only went to school together from maybe 3rd-5th grades) and his dad also had died at a young age. He was married in October to a girl who was three grades below me in high school. Last night, I was able to attend the visitation (since I was forced to stay home from work...a story for another day). When I was talking to his mom, telling her how sorry I was, especially since grief and loss is not new to her, she said something to the effect of "oh, but those poor people in Haiti, now that is loss, they lost everything and their entire families, I still have [and she gestured to her daughter and other members of her family]" Wow, I had no response for that. His young wife, a new widow talking to a funeral director...you aren't "supposed" to have to do that when you are 26...nor should you have to go through a homicide investigation which is protocol for someone dying suddenly at home (can you imagine?!) They both were doing amazingly well, but from what I know about grief and loss, it is the time to come that will be more challenging, when it seems others have forgotten.

Not that I expect to die any time soon (none of us do!), when things like this happen, my mind wanders to what people would say about me, what my "legacy" will be. In these past months, I have come to realize that the path I am on WILL leave a legacy...and I will live on in the hundreds of people I have touched along the way (how about we go for "thousands" since I'm planning to stick around for a few more decades!)

As I wrote in my last post, yesterday was Asher Bolte's second birthday. While his life here was short, as Ginger wrote, his tiny feet left big footprints. He definitely left a legacy, and his story has reached, and touched, hundreds of people. I took the opportunity to have some fun with all this snow that apparently is not going away and brought some food coloring outside. I ended up running out of blue, and arts and crafts are not my forte, but I had a good time. I wrote Asher's name in the snow on my unsturdy picnic table (a gigantic tree branch fell on it in the June storm of 2008...yeah, it's still in my backyard!) and stood on the wobbly top to take a picture...which is why you can see my boots (I took a couple pictures, but liked the ones with my boots!)

I can't post about "leaving a legacy" without being reminded of the Lady A song that Ginger shared with me during her visit in November. She left me to listen while she got ready for bed and came back to me bawling...it IS a good one, and I was at a place where I wasn't as confident in myself and my journey, but knew that I was doing my best to make the most of my life and the people God places in my path...and still am.

I Was Here--Lady Antebellum

You will notice me. I'll be leaving my mark, like initials carved in an old oak tree, you wait and see. Maybe I'll write like Twain wrote. Maybe I'll paint like Van Gogh, cure the common cold, I don't know, but I'm ready to start

'cause I know in my heart--I wanna do something that matters, say something different, something that sets the whole world on its ear. I wanna do something better with the time I've been given, and I wanna try to touch a few hearts in this life, and leave nothing less than something that says "I was here".

I will prove you wrong. If you think I'm all talk, you're in for a shock, 'cause this dream's too strong, and before too long...maybe I'll compose symphonies, maybe I'll fight for world peace, 'cause I know it's my destiny to leave more than a trace of myself in thisplace.

I wanna do something that matters, say something different, something that sets the whole world on its ear. I wanna do something better, with the time I've been given, and I wanna try to touch a few hearts in this life, and leave nothing less than something that says "I was here".

And I know that I, I will do more than just pass through this life. I'll leave nothing less than something that says "I was here". I was here. I was here. I was here. Wanna do something that matters something that says I was here wanna do something that matters something that says I was here, I was here.

________________________

And, since I'm trying to focus on taking time out for prayer this Lent, I found a video (Josh Groban actually...not too shabby!) and lyrics from one of my favorite "church songs". We actually sang it this past Sunday, and it is often sung at funerals, although we also sang it at my First Communion. Anyway, it is based on Psalm 91, which was the Psalm this week (the other readings were from Deuteronomy 26: 4-10, Romans 10: 8-13, and Luke 4: 1-13). I actually did spend some quiet time in reflection and prayer (and "sucked it up" and went to Confession for the first time in over ten years...the priest told me that if I did it more often, it would be easier...ha!)



On Eagle's Wings
You who dwell in the shelter of the Lord,
Who abide in His shadow for life,
Say to the Lord, "My Refuge,
My Rock in Whom I trust."

And He will raise you up on eagle's wings,
Bear you on the breath of dawn,
Make you to shine like the sun,
And hold you in the palm of His Hand.
The snare of the fowler will never capture you,
And famine will bring you no fear;
Under His Wings your refuge,
His faithfulness your shield.

And He will raise you up on eagle's wings,
Bear you on the breath of dawn,
Make you to shine like the sun,
And hold you in the palm of His Hand.
You need not fear the terror of the night,
Nor the arrow that flies by day,
Though thousands fall about you,
Near you it shall not come.

And He will raise you up on eagle's wings,
Bear you on the breath of dawn,
Make you to shine like the sun,
And hold you in the palm of His Hand.
For to His angels He's given a command,
To guard you in all of your ways,
Upon their hands they will bear you up,
Lest you dash your foot against a stone.

And He will raise you up on eagle's wings,
Bear you on the breath of dawn,
Make you to shine like the sun,
And hold you in the palm of His Hand.
And hold you in the palm of His Hand
__________________

I don't have the lyrics to this next song, but it is a song that "unites Music City for Haiti". It's pretty awesome to see Christian and Country artists sing together on a beautiful song written to help raise money for Haiti relief. (I've been following this blog since the earthquake and her stories are heartbreaking, but her last couple posts have had some hope in them...so sad that they lost a number of premature babies due to lack of basic equipment, things that we don't even think about being "optional".)

Come Together Now


When I was searching for a link, I "stumbled upon" one of the last music and lyrics I posted--

Okey doke...music and lyrics to speak what's on my mind and it STILL took me forever to put together. Today was my second day in a row of only being "kind of productive". I have two more days to get my rear in gear (my sister texted me that if I was bored I should come visit...well, I was feeling "bored", but not for lack of things to do at my house! I should go see her one of the days, that would be nice :o) ) I have no idea when/if the next call will come and I ought to be a little more prepared than what I am right now. Kelly also posted a challenge on her blog to send snail mail. I used to be really good at this, but have been slacking a big, so maybe these next two days will involve letter writing too :o)

Good night.

Making Connections

Last night, I had the opportunity to "hang out" with some people from church. We have gotten together previously, but it has been a LONG time! Once we are together, we have a great time and get along really well, but none of us have the "event planner gene", so it was REALLY nice that someone decided that it was time. Last night, I invited another couple since I thought they would fit in well with the group (the "girl" was a grade ahead of me, but all the way through grade and high school). It was really "low-key" at one of the couple's houses (they are the only ones with two kids...a 2 1/2-year-old and an 11-month-old). I picked up a sandwich tray and there was fruit, chips, salsa, hummus...fun stuff :o) There ended up being 8 adults (since one of the husbands was at a basketball game) and 5 kids. Of course, I loved that since I'm a big fan of the kiddos (and of hanging out with people!) What was really neat was that when I mentioned having my foster parent license, it was met with a tremendous amount of support. They all thought that was great, which I needed to hear because I have been getting a little freaked out by the idea (even though I DID sign up for it, and have waited for a long time to have it!) All of them live pretty close to me and would enjoy getting out of the house (once this snow goes away!) I didn't realize that one of the girls is home every day with her baby since she teaches at nights, one of the girls is off on Thursdays and Fridays, and another one is a teacher so she has summers off. Even though hanging out with them intensified my feeling that being a mom is not easy (not sure why I JUST started to realize this, but apparently I had some kind of belief that it wouldn't be hard for me...um, yeah, definitely don't think that any more!) I have been thinking a lot about how blessed I am to have a church that has been my home for over 25 years still FEEL like home. And, now I have made connections with "the next generation" of church members which makes that even MORE exciting!

(So, it's getting late and I'm trying to watch the Olympics and type at the same time, so this is very much rambling and I wouldn't be surprised if I miss the point, but I've been feeling really "connected"...and very special...so, I don't have much of anything to complain about these days and it's fabulous!)

Anyway, I went to "family dinner" when I got off today. Even though my sister wasn't feeling well (she has been sick a LOT this winter! :o( ), she and my brother-in-law waited until I got there so I could see my nephew which was REALLY thoughtful :o) He is SO cute and makes us laugh like crazy! During dinner, my mom talked my ear off...she's got lots going on at work and I think was glad to have someone listen. :o) It was a little tough since I wanted to get home after a long day and have to work tomorrow, but considering I'm going to try to get off early in order to attend the visitation of a grade school classmate who died suddenly last week, spending time with family is definitely important. (I don't know what happened, but maybe something heart-related because it was sudden...leaving behind a wife he married in October...SO sad!)

Tomorrow also marks the second birthday of Asher Joseph Bolte. We share a birth "date" (the 22nd) and I'm a big fan of "A" names (for "obvious" reasons...ha!) so Asher's "extra special" to me :o) I posted a video Kristy made on this post from a year ago. Happy 2nd Birthday Asher! I know your family misses you very much, but are also so very proud of the lives you continue to touch. Thinking of you Kristy. {hugs}

Edited to add: Ginger wrote a beautiful post with her perspective on Asher's life and the legacy he has left behind. Had God not brought Asher's story to me (I wrote a little bit about "how that happened" in this post), and that email into my inbox, Ginger and I would not have any idea the other even existed...and boy would I have missed some huge blessings. I am so thankful for Asher's life and the blessings I have been able to see/experience because he lived. Happy birthday Asher "Happy" Bolte!

Good night.

Words From My Inbox

Well, I got a call this morning to see if I wanted to stay home. I turned down the offer because, Hello, I haven't worked since Monday!, and I also don't have a ton of PTO. But, the calls came back around to me and I was "forced" to remain "on-call". I was glad to know that it was likely I would be called in, so if nothing else, I'd get to sleep in, and maybe get some things done before I had to go to work. I got a call at 8:10 that let me know I should get up, shower, and eat breakfast. By 8:50, I received word that I had to go to work. My first patient didn't come until nearly 11 and then I got a transfer around 1. It was a RRREEEAAALLLYYY slow day for me since neither of my patients even had an IV, but was SO slow that it was 7:30 PM and I realized I didn't evaluate my care plan goals or fill out my teaching sheets...oops! I probably was a little annoying to the moms of these kids because I kept "checking" on them since there wasn't much else to do (I gave one dose of Tylenol and that was the only med I administered all day!) It was nice being able to be a "cheerleader" for a new mom whose baby wasn't being the best "team player" in the breastfeeding game (although even she asked me to leave...I am really thankful that she spoke up to let me know that my "hovering" was not exactly helping her stress level!)

I'm off tomorrow (lots of plans though!) and back to work Sunday and Monday. I ought to spend some time with my "Lenten reading" before I fall asleep, so will leave today with the quotes that arrived in my inbox yesterday and today...I thought they were worth keeping/sharing (especially in light of the fact that I am learning to "fill my bucket" and have been doing a MUCH better job with it!).

"To seek approval is to have no resting place, no sanctuary.
Like all judgment, approval encourages a constant striving.
It makes us uncertain of who we are and of our true value.
Approval cannot be trusted. It can be withdrawn at any time no matter what our track record has been.
It is as nourishing of real growth as cotton candy.
Yet many of us spend our lives pursuing it."
~Rachel Naomi Remen, MD
American Author, Storyteller and Medical Doctor

"Eventually we grow weary of seeking treasures outside ourselves and we begin to look within. There we discover that the gold we sought, we already are." - Alan Cohen

"I know what it's like. I've seen it played out a few zillion times. You're waiting for that magical day when someone makes the connection and recognizes who you really are. Maybe they'll first catch the sparkle in your eye. Or perhaps they'll marvel at your insights and the depth of your spirit. Someone who will help you connect the dots, believe in yourself, and make sense of it all. Someone who will understand you, approve of you, and unhesitatingly give you a leg up so that life can pluck your ready, ripened self from the branch of magnificence.

Well, I'm here to tell you, your wait is over.

That someone, is you."
~Mike Dooley
Inspirational Author, Speaker and Friend

Good night.

Something To Work On

Well, there are a number of "somethings" for me to work on, but it's nearly 11:00, so it isn't like I have all day to write about them ;o)

I am coming off a stretch of three days off. I really think I should have made a "to-do" list. Even if it was a list of things that were not done, I would be able to see the things that WERE done (things that were not that should have been, include vacuuming, cleaning the bathroom, clearing off my table/couch...) But, it is what it is...and something to work on (maybe I will make a to-do list for Saturday or the days I have off next week!)

This afternoon, I met with my Spiritual Director (I guess I can call her "my" spiritual director even though this was only my second time to meet with her for that reason!) She started to mention something about praying in silence and it was "downhill" for there and I never stopped talking long enough for there to be a moment of silence...oops! I think I need to work on quiet/silence/being still! Something to work on for Lent I guess...one of the many "somethings". I was able to do a lot of "reflecting" during our time together and am looking forward to our next meeting. (If it wasn't late and I didn't actually have to go back to work tomorrow, I would probably go into more detail, but it was really nice...getting to meet with TWO people in one week whose job it is to listen to me is pretty cool...ha!)

I sort of rushed through my Ash Wednesday reading and just skimmed through today's. Today's reflection was called "Suffering and Redemption" and based on Luke 9:22-25. Peeking at tomorrow, it is a reflection based on Matthew 9: 14-15...I need to work on setting aside time to read the verses AND the reflection (it's only "day two" and I've yet to really set aside time to read the reflections, so this will be a work in progress!)

Exciting to watch the US win more medals tonight :o)

Good night.

Let It Be Lent

Ah, yes, it is Ash Wednesday, the beginning of Lent. I wanted to write a post about this and my "plans" for this Lent, but I'm not quite sure of my "plans" and if today is any indication of how things are going to go, I don't want to make any "promises" I can't keep. Last year, I had good intentions of making it an extra special season of growth and perspective on the reality of what this means. However, I found that only four of my posts were labeled "Lent", so I'm not thinking I did a very good job! I don't comment on or write much about this blog that I read, but she inspires me (actually, it was her Lenten post last year that inspired me to try and do better, maybe this year, her Ash Wednesday post will!)

Well, I have a book of daily reflections for Lent that I want to "commit" to doing daily (that shouldn't be hard, but I don't want to say I will do something and not follow through with it...I have issues with not completing things I start!) I need to at least do it the FIRST day :o) I was semi-productive today in that all of my clothes are clean, and most are put away. I also met with the director at the day care where I would likely send a foster child who is placed in my home. I went to Ash Wednesday Mass. I watched Olympic coverage :o)

I have a meeting in the morning and am not sure I am prepared, so probably should get up a little earlier to get things in order.

Hopefully there will be more than 4 Lenten posts this year!
Good night.

Happy Valentine's Day!

Yeah, I totally bought these socks yesterday when I was picking up a few things at the drug store. I couldn't resist (they say "I'm too sexy for my socks" in case you can't tell). You can kinda see my pedicured toes (they are red with purple hearts...probably should have considered how unlikely that the hearts would actually look like hearts, but that's how it goes!)

I did have a bit of a headache today, but was able to take a little nap this afternoon and had a couple more glasses of wine at "family dinner"...I may just need a little extra coffee at work tomorrow afternoon to deal with any leftover hangover ;o) Definitely worth it though!

I went to Mass this morning and then went to see a play with my mom. I am SO glad that things are "better" between us. My family actually hasn't annoyed me in a while, so either things are better or going to counseling has helped me handle things better...or a combination of lots of things. Whatever it is, I'm happy that things are better.

I haven't seen my nephew in a while, and I'm kind of tired, so this will be a picture heavy post. Happy Valentine's Day from me (and from my adorable nephew who is getting so big and makes me laugh!)

Good night!

I may have a headache tomorrow...

but tonight was SO much fun!

This morning, I went and got a pedicure. I hadn't gotten one since we went for my sister's birthday back in September. I got red toes with purple hearts on my big toes (probably should have gotten something besides a heart since I go so long in between pedicures and they don't so much look like hearts!) I got lunch at Panera after my pedicure using part of a gift card I got for Christmas.

After that, I went to a basketball game my dad was coaching. I only have been able to attend one other game this season and he coaches TWO teams! I got to keep score which I love to do. Unfortunately, the game before went into double overtime, so I didn't have time to go shopping after the game, but it worked out okay.

Tonight was the big fundraiser at my high school alma mater. I think I have attended every year since I moved back to my home town. It has always been fun. Last year, I was baby-sitting the weekend of the event, so had to watch my drinking, but tonight I didn't so much do that. Since I am a "young alum", I only have to pay half price for dinner. So, I was planning on spending more on silent auction items. However, I was drinking and talking more than bidding, so didn't come home with very much stuff (or spending as much money as I thought I would). If my count is correct, I think I had six glasses of wine...yeah, that's a lot! It was a ton of fun though! The fundraiser at my church is next month and I think I will have to get a ticket to that :o) I was "wired" for a little while after I got home, but now I think I am ready to sleep. I only took a couple pictures which is unfortunate because I was wearing a cute dress and cute shoes. I also wore make-up and had some divine intervention to make my hair look "cute" (I should have taken a picture of it because I used hot rollers and then did some kind of pin into messy-ish but cute ponytail deal that surprisingly looked pretty good!)

I was seated at a table with four girls who were in my class and some other people I knew. It was a ton of fun. I had sort of requested to sit with the people I sat with last year, but didn't remember their names. Crazily enough, I found out that the mom and daughter I remembered (but not their names) are related to a woman at work that I call my "bff" who hung out with me in Montreal...small world! (The mom is actually HER mom and the daughter is her sister...super crazy!) I should have taken a picture with them, but I did not. It sounded like a lot of money was raised which is fabulous because that school means SO much to me! I really wished that I could hold up my paddle during the oral auction to bid on some of the big items...maybe some day!

Well, I'd better head to bed because I still need to go to church in the morning and think I told my mom I would go to a play (or musical) with her tomorrow afternoon. Hopefully since I stayed away from red wine, I won't have a headache, but I suppose it will have to be a "pleasant surprise" if I DON'T feel a little "off" tomorrow!

I had to get a picture with this girl. She is the youngest of five kids in the family that was the first family I baby-sat. I like to tell her she is "my favorite". She is a sophomore in high school now (the second-to-youngest child in her family was only about 3 months old when I started baby-sitting them!)

It was fun to see some girls from my class and to sit at the table with them :o) The two girls on the left actually went to my elementary school as well, so we were in school together for 13 years!!

Okey doke...heading to bed. What a fun day! I'm really thankful for a fun day because yesterday wasn't all that "fun".
Good night!

This Day Was Nutso!

So, "nutso" may not be a word, but it definitely fits--that, or crazy, bizarre, odd, weird, one-of-a-kind, unforgettable...seriously, "nutso" just sounds fun :o)

I stayed up a bit too late last night considering I actually needed to be up early on my day off. We have a program at work where once a year you can get free lab work with a health screening. This year, if you participate, you get a discount on health insurance. I made my appointment for 7 this morning, but could go any time between 6:30 and 9. I figured I'd go "close" to 7/7:30 and then just go back to bed...so wasn't really worried about the short night's sleep.

I rolled out of bed around 7:30, and started to get dressed when I heard a strange sound. Half-dressed, I followed the sound to the basement. There, I found a pool of water and saw water streaming out of the wall near the toilet. I quickly turned off the water to the toilet which surprisingly worked. Then, I got to work trying to push the water toward the drain near the washer, and of course called my parents to see what I should do (I was worried that this water shut-off was just a temporary fix and that I possibly had a broken pipe somewhere). I left a message for the plumber and went ahead to my appointment (since I couldn't miss an appointment to lower my health insurance!)

The appointment was quick, and I live close to work so I was quickly back home after a stop at Starbucks on the way. I continued with cleaning up the water and got some fans going. The plumber called back and would come when he could. I was feeling SO blessed that this happened on a day that I was off because had water poured into my basement for 13 hours...well, that would NOT have been good at all. Also, it could have been worse if it happened in the middle of the night OR if I had slept in until my "usual" hour. I really don't think the water had been coming in for more than maybe half an hour by the amount of water. Boy am I lucky...but, cleaning up the water and waiting for the plumber kind of put a damper on the whole go back to bed after my lab work idea.

Then, as I waited for the plumber, I got a call from the hospital social worker. One of the transplant moms was sick and had called the social worker to say she couldn't really take care of her kid (okay, that's not EXACTLY the way it went, but sort of) The social worker was wondering if I could help. I let her know that I was waiting for a plumber, had a meeting and choir practice tonight and had to work tomorrow. But, I could probably do something...and I made plans to call after the plumber left.

The plumber was gone by 11 after finding that the problem was a broken connector from the toilet to the water source. Halleluiah, it wasn't a broken pipe! It cost about $100 for the "house call" and around $7 for the part, but that is WAY better than busting into the wall to fix a pipe, having to replace carpet, fix drywall, all the other things I would have had to do if my basement had completely flooded!

So, I called the social worker back and arranged to pick up the child for a couple hours before my meeting. I let the mom know that I would have to get my pack and play set up (since she said the child would be ready for a nap...yeah right...ha!) and put the car seat into the car. I asked her to give me 30 minutes, but it took me a little longer since I struggled with figuring out how to put the car seat into the car properly (still not sure I did it right!) PLUS I got a phone call...

THIS phone call was from the new case worker from the agency who is assigned to my home. I left her a message the other day saying I would call on my next day off, but obviously I hadn't quite gotten to that point today. I would be surprised if she didn't think I was a crazy lady because I was rambling on and on and trying to install a car seat at the same time. She was saying that my name and phone number had been tossed around this morning about a kid or two so maybe I would be getting a call. I let her know about the "favor" I was doing today and that another foster mom had talked to me about maybe doing respite care some time in the next two weeks. I also said that I am not quite sure what I'm looking for or if I am 100% ready which kind of made me sound like why I am I doing this anyway, but I think she understood...it had already been a "nutso" day and it wasn't even noon!

I picked up the child and we came to my house to play. I realized that getting a baby in and out of a car seat with all their stuff is not as easy as I thought it would be. But, it was good "practice" :o) The baby was SO good that I thought about just having her come to the meeting with me to give the mom a little more of a break.

THEN, the mom called me at 2:00 to say the baby was supposed to be seen in clinic this afternoon and they said I could just bring her. Um, okay (I HAD called the clinic to talk to one of the nurses because I'm not used to "healthy" kids and wanted to make sure that a little bit of wheezes and course breath sounds/junky nose was okay...I didn't sense any "respiratory distress" but wanted to double check!) So, we packed everything back up and headed to clinic...where I learned that the mom was mistaken and the appointment was NEXT week. My "co-workers" took pity on me and went ahead and saw the child. Since I was already out and about, I decided against bringing the child BACK to my house for an hour...I apologized to the mom, but there wasn't really much I could do. I probably shouldn't say any more, but I guess it's good that the mom knew to ask for help. I hope she feels better soon both for her sake and the baby's! (Oh, and in between here, my mom called to see if I wanted to go to a concert or a play with her on Sunday...I had to explain that I COULD be getting a call about a kid, but can't really not plan to do things on the "just in case"...also had to try to tell the story about the water and the baby-sitting and the other craziness of this day. We decided on the play rather than the concert and she sort of reminded me that we don't "do command performances" and if something comes up and we can't go, then that's how it is...oh how wonderful it is to have "that" mom back!)

Since I no longer had a child and the fans were going in the basement, I took the opportunity to sleep for an hour even though I probably should ACTUALLY get my house ready in case a call DOES come. My mess was okay for this baby, but likely will not be for others! But, I was tired, so I did it :o)

As soon as my meeting was over, before I left to go to choir practice, I got a call from a woman at the agency. She left a message to call her since I was on the other line with my dad. I called her back and she had received calls about a sibling strip of three (I'm actually only licensed for two...can you imagine going from zero children to three?!) as well as a school age child...not the call I was half-way expecting from the way the case worker earlier sounded (that child was a different age in a non-sibling group). Well, since I have to work tomorrow, it would be tough to have a school age child that needs to go to school, so once again, I had to say no. Two calls and I've been licensed less than two weeks...I guess I DID sign up for this, but for some reason, I wasn't expecting this! I am not sure if I am ready, but am not sure if I could ever REALLY be prepared...I suppose like people said when I got the first call, when it is right, I will know. And, there are lots of times that an emergency placement would work. However, I have been SUPER busy these days, so things will definitely be different! (My sister texted me tonight that she and my nephew miss me and she wants me to come visit...I do see them about once a week, but always at my mom and dad's. I don't think I saw them this week though since I worked the weekend.)

So, that was my "nutso" day...it doesn't seem quite as nuts when it's all typed out, but it definitely felt nuts as it unfolded (I guess water in the basement, two calls from caseworkers, providing respite care and taking that kid to the doctor isn't something that happens every day!)

Back to work tomorrow...time for bed!
Good night.

Have Ticket, Will Fly

It's official! Not only will I be in Nashville (well, near there) for four days in late April (any chance, I'll be able to recreate this?! That would be "pretty sweet"!), but I now have a ticket to the 'Burgh! Hopefully Ginger won't regret telling me "you can stay as long as you like" because I'll be there for four full days and five nights...she may have to "turf" me two doors up to Lauren's for a couple of them ;o)

I am looking forward to more of the kind of laughter that came both when this picture was taken and when we saw what the picture looked like (sorry Ging, this IS my blog...ha!)

Fun times like this (yeah, I am not good at posing for pictures...gotta work on that!)

and enjoying each other's company.

Of course, I also can hardly wait to meet their husbands...and the kiddos. I'll make sure to bring some "Depends" because those girls made me laugh SO hard that I can't imagine what will happen when their husbands are given the opportunity to take turns making fun of me! AND...it would be awesome if I could finally meet Kristy and her family, especially since I'll be in the area when Baby Hope turns one...wow!

I ♥ the technology that brought us together, and I ♥ that I only paid $10 for each trip...of course, that took LOTS of credit card spending, but still awesome if you ask me! More money for food and fun while I'm there--yay!

Well, back to work tomorrow, so I'd better head to bed. For the first eight hours today, I felt like a "top" spinning round and round from room to room, patient to patient, doctor to doctor...it was NUTS! However, when 3:00 came, I didn't have ANY patients on the floor since one went home and two were at procedures. That was nice. It was a weird day, too, because one of the employees who has been there a long time got fired today. It is SO sad because my take on the situation (from the outside having gotten no details about what happened) is that this person was great at the job they were supposed to do, and took pride in that. They weren't too happy with the way OTHER people were doing things and finally snapped...and was fired for questioning leadership. Of course, I have no clue how it all went down, and it was totally hush-hush except for the fact there was security monitoring my area, someone asked for empty boxes, and later a cart filled with boxes left the unit...hard NOT to be curious/nosy when those things are going on! It will be interesting to see if people are talking about it tomorrow...I'd definitely be curious to hear both sides of the story.

My head is no longer sore...yay! Hopefully that will be the only time I need to get treatment for those cysts!
Okay, time for bed.
Good night :o)

An Email and a Mr. Linky

As I mentioned in my post earlier today, today was the one-year anniversary of a life-changing day. As I was looking back, I realized that tomorrow is a special one too! I love dates and am sentimental about things like that...the events of a single day can change your life (actually, LOTS of life-altering events happen in a single day...or maybe ALL of them do?!...ha!)

A year ago today, on February 8, 2009, I received an email in my inbox from Laurie in Ca. She had been following my blog for a while and we both read some of the same blogs, including Kristy's as she met and said good-bye to her fourth son, Asher, on February 22, 2008. Laurie had received an email from Kristy's "in real life friend", Ginger. Ginger wanted to do something to surprise Kristy and her family with a gift for Asher's first birthday. But, she needed help to "pull it off". So, she sent Laurie and email who then forwarded the email to me and some of Kristy's other "blog friends". At that point, I was struggling with what I could do for Kristy since I live so far away and didn't "really" know her. I was, however, her friend on facebook, so I sent Ginger an email and let her know that I could do a little "blog" and "facebook"-stalking. I ended up sending messages to a number of Kristy's facebook friends and actually got a message from facebook warning me about sending spam--ha! I thought what Ginger was doing was SO great, like something I would do, so I said "when this is all over we have to become facebook friends!"

And as soon as "the secret was out", we became facebook friends...who chatted into the wee hours of the night until the one night we decided we were going to meet in Chicago in May. SO much has happened this past year, from our trip to Chicago (my slide show here, her really cool post about it here). She came to visit me in November. I am about ready to book my ticket to go visit her. There have been texts and facebook chats and emails and phone calls. There have been celebrations, exciting news shared, and lots of laughing. There also have been tough times, some teary times (okay, to be honest, the crying has only been me...me being "a crier" and all), some scary times (like her calling me after she nearly fell off a cliff...yeah, scary), and lots of times that were just "fun". Ginger, you are such a great friend, and I am so blessed that God brought you into my life...I could see your character in that one little email and I just knew you would be someone good to know...little did I know that we would end up becoming friends, or that we would meet and hang out not once, but TWICE in 2009!

I found that email in my inbox, but when I looked back at my blog posts from February 2009, I noticed that I didn't actually post on February 8. February 7 was the "Pizza Delivery People Party" I attended (that was funny!) February 9 was the first time (and, I believe the ONLY time) I posted to MckMama's "Not Me! Monday" Mr. Linky. Aunt Nikki found my blog that day and left a comment on my post. Since then, she has blessed me with encouraging comments, and she often posts "random" things on her blog that make me laugh (like this one she posted today...not funny for that guy, but made me smile!) It's people like Nikki (and Foster Ima and Steph and Laurie in Ca and Marcie) who I would have missed out on meeting, learning from, encouraged by, etc., if my blog was private (rather than being "private" as it pretty much is!)

I did get 10 letters written while I was at the coffee shop this morning. That is why it has taken me so long to send Christmas cards--I cannot just put a picture in the mail, and even writing a "Christmas letter" didn't seem like it would work for me, I have to make it personal. Just looking at the collage and writing my notes reminded me of how much happened in my life in one year! I know I have a year's worth of blog posts that could tell me that, but to see it in a couple pictures really puts things into perspective. And then, to realize that many of those great moments happened with people who weren't even in my life a year ago (including my nephew because he wasn't born yet!) is just amazing.

(This is a little different version than the one that I sent, but pretty close.)

Well, I'd better head to bed since I'm back to work the next two days. I didn't really get anything done around my house, but feel good about getting those letters sent. My head is a little sore after the shots I got at the dermatologist this morning, but pretty much just if I touch the bumps, so maybe I should not do that ;o)
Good night!

To Do Lists

I definitely need to start making more "to do lists". I had most of Thursday and all of Friday off. On Friday, I can't tell you what I did besides a whole lot of nothing. You would think that the prospect of bringing a child into my home would have been enough to get my rear in gear, but it was not. MAYBE if I had made a "to do list", I would have gotten more accomplished. Not sure, but I just didn't feel like thinking about what to do, so just did nothing. And then I worked Saturday and Sunday, so it wasn't like I was going to be productive after working a 12 hour shift! So, this morning I went to the dermatologist about the cysts on my head. This doctor was nicer than the last one. He still didn't spend a WHOLE lot of time with me...maybe like 5 minutes...but at least he paid attention to me and my concerns. I suppose it was a little different since one of them was bothering me. He had the nurse shoot some medicine into the three I could find (I thought I had four, but couldn't find the fourth one) to try and shrink them. Of course, now they hurt worse than they did, but hopefully it helps, and at least I know who I want to see if I continue to have problems!

After my appointment, I drove to a cute little coffee shop for a cinnamon roll and coffee and my bag of stuff to write letters. I also brought my computer so I could watch the videos Angie and Jessica made about the Bloom Book Club book Same Kind of Different as Me. I hadn't watched the videos yet and wanted to hear what they had to say about it. I'm going to Nashville in April and think it would be SO much fun to have lunch/coffee with them :o) Sending them an email to that effect shouldn't be at the top of my to-do list since I definitely have a sink full of dishes at home, laundry in the dryer, and an entire room that is in disarray, plus 30 Christmas photo cards that ought to be sent to folks who thought enough to send me cards (Happy Valentine's Day!) But, maybe I will put that on the list anyway :o) Well, here I sit at this coffee shop, trying to keep myself from going into the bookstore that is connected because I LOVE books and would have a very difficult time leaving without one! I don't read books as often as I should/want to, but sure do enjoy buying them!

More later...today is actually a "special date", an "anniversary" of something that changed my life in a way I never could have imagined.

Time for another coffee...and to put away the computer so I can write some letters.