Rumor has it that my only loyal blog reader, my cousin Jessica, has limited Internet access (when visiting her parents) and may get Internet soon again in her new house, so I suppose I'd better give Jessie something to look forward to when she logs onto the Internet (i.e. my updated blog). If it wasn't for Jessie and my inability to quit stuff, I would probably turn off this blog altogether. Chris and I manage to stay very, very busy, but I'm not sure the majority of our activities are blog-worthy. Actually, I'm sure they aren't.
However, when one hasn't blogged for three months, surely there are a few things to write about, right? Well, as you can see this blog is a last-resort activity. It's currently 11:39 at night, and I drank a lot of Diet Coke at our Connections Group tonight; consequently, my body is tired, but my mind is wide awake. I even already checked my work e-mail. Yes, I'm that desperate for a time-killing activity in hopes of winding my brain down.
Sooo, the question you're dying to ask...What have the Claggetts been up to in the last three months? Here's a brief run-down of the high points:
- Joined the Edmond Christian Church (instruments and all!). We love it there.
- Graduated (Julie) with a masters in education. Brilliant idea to earn a graduate degree in a field where if I entered it, I'd take a pay cut (and not because I make a ton of money). The bright side is my boss sleeps well at night knowing I'm probably not going anywhere.
- Rocked half-way up our house and a portion of the inside for a wood-burning stove (took about the same amount of time it took us to build our entire house - and we hired help!).
- Gained a cousin-in-law (is there such a person?) in Mrs. Rachel Antrikin - wife of my cousin William. I don't think I've ever seen a couple so perfect for each other. We had a blast at their "destination wedding" at the-middle-of-nowhere Texas. It was beautiful.
- Gained an absolutely beautiful new niece, Little Miss Riley Paige, via my sister and her husband, Jenny and Alan. Riley is already proving herself to be quite the little prima donna. That's my kinda gal.
No more school. A fabulous wedding. Home improvements. A wonderful church. A precious new niece. Yes, I would say perhaps we have had a lot to blog about - and a lot to be thankful for - after all.
I'm getting a little sleepy now, and if I go to sleep in the next three minutes, I'll get exactly 5 1/2 hours sleep before the alarm starts buzzing. Make that two minutes. Thanks for listening. Or reading. Good night.
Table for One, Please
Well, I think I've finally made it. I just completed my final hotel site inspection this afternoon and this hotel is just fine for our group, meaning that this should be the last time I have to board a plane for a few months. This trip should also mark the last time I have to eat in a restaurant by myself for a while.
I used to always order room service when I traveled alone, but that too gets really old (plus it's really expensive!). So, I finally ventured out in my comfort zone and began eating dinner in actual restaurants. Not sure what to do with yourself while dining alone? I've listed a few tips that I've picked up along the way that might be helpful to all of you lonely travelers the next time you request a table for one.
5. It's smart to bring a book or sit by a window. It's very important to look busy or occupied with your own business, or at least look uninterested in what everyone else is doing. Nothing appears more pathetic than sitting at a table alone and looking around the room at everyone else talking and laughing.
4. No one really cares that you're alone. This holds especially true in airport and hotel restaurants, as many business people travel alone and therefore eat alone in these locations. I used to think everyone would stare at me as I dined by myself. It's quite the opposite; most people don't pay any attention. However, if you do notice people watching you, you're already breaking rule No. 1.
3. Don't order any food that's difficult to eat. There are few things more awkward than eating some messy meal that could leave sauce on your chin or food in your lap. Before you know it you're picking up food off your pants and wiping your chin and muttering to yourself, and then people are staring at you and you've broken rule No. 1 again.
2. Go pee before you sit down to eat. You can't just get up and go to the bathroom, leaving an empty table, when you're dining alone. Learned that one just this afternoon!
1. Treat yourself. You've flown across the country and you're eating supper by yourself. How pathetic are you?! At least order the swordfish or the steak and forget about your waistline (or in my case your butt line) for five seconds. By golly, you deserve a good meal.
Well, there you have it folks. I doubt this article will make the next issue of Travel and Leisure, but it's sound advice that I've personally put to the test. Happy (solitary) eating!
I used to always order room service when I traveled alone, but that too gets really old (plus it's really expensive!). So, I finally ventured out in my comfort zone and began eating dinner in actual restaurants. Not sure what to do with yourself while dining alone? I've listed a few tips that I've picked up along the way that might be helpful to all of you lonely travelers the next time you request a table for one.
5. It's smart to bring a book or sit by a window. It's very important to look busy or occupied with your own business, or at least look uninterested in what everyone else is doing. Nothing appears more pathetic than sitting at a table alone and looking around the room at everyone else talking and laughing.
4. No one really cares that you're alone. This holds especially true in airport and hotel restaurants, as many business people travel alone and therefore eat alone in these locations. I used to think everyone would stare at me as I dined by myself. It's quite the opposite; most people don't pay any attention. However, if you do notice people watching you, you're already breaking rule No. 1.
3. Don't order any food that's difficult to eat. There are few things more awkward than eating some messy meal that could leave sauce on your chin or food in your lap. Before you know it you're picking up food off your pants and wiping your chin and muttering to yourself, and then people are staring at you and you've broken rule No. 1 again.
2. Go pee before you sit down to eat. You can't just get up and go to the bathroom, leaving an empty table, when you're dining alone. Learned that one just this afternoon!
1. Treat yourself. You've flown across the country and you're eating supper by yourself. How pathetic are you?! At least order the swordfish or the steak and forget about your waistline (or in my case your butt line) for five seconds. By golly, you deserve a good meal.
Well, there you have it folks. I doubt this article will make the next issue of Travel and Leisure, but it's sound advice that I've personally put to the test. Happy (solitary) eating!
Where am I? Why am I here?
Thursday, April 13, 2007 5:15 p.m.
Finally I’ve updating my blog. My apologies to all you loyal readers (Jessica) for the long delay. Life has been a little hectic. I’m currently on my way (finally) to my sixth destination since March 1. I’ve now visited Salt Lake City, Portland, Minneapolis, Philadelphia, Dallas and I’m on my way to Indianapolis. I think. I’ll spend exactly 14 ½ hours there and then head out to Nashville for the afternoon and with a little luck I’ll be back in my bed at home by Friday at midnight. It’s getting to that point where I wake up in a hotel room and lay there for about ten seconds trying to remember exactly where I am. Yes, be jealous. It’s a glamorous life I lead.
Today was especially interesting. I woke at 4:30 a.m. to make a 7:25 flight out of OKC, but a little light on our assigned aircraft wasn’t working, and according to the gate agent, that was (and I quote) a “No no.” Two rescheduled flights and five hours later, they finally fixed the “no no” and we left about noon.
Anyhow, I’m on my last leg to Indy, and I was planning on reading a good chunk of “You Don’t Need a Title to be a Leader,” which is our current book club’s chosen selection at work. Just as I picked up my book and settled in, the guy behind me asked his first question to his neighbor…something about why she was going to Indy.
I tell you he has not stopped talking since. I’m not even sure he’s taken a breath. You know the average number of words that a guy supposedly uses in a day (which is significantly lower than women)? Well, I promise it’s even lower than stated for the average guy, because this jabber-box behind me brings the average way up.
I know all about his wife, his kids, his job, his family, his in-laws – and hers as well.
You have to give it to his neighbor. She’s really being a good sport about it, answering every question he fires at her as quickly as possible so that she can immediately take on the next one. I would have had to feign sleep, or a migraine or a stroke if that’s what it took. I always pray for the aircraft to take off and land safely when I fly, but on this flight I threw in a little extra “thank you” to God for not allowing me to set directly next to this incessant talker.
Friday, April 13, 2007 (Yes, Friday the 13th) at 9:15 p.m. Eastern
Today is a new day, but it feels a whole lot like yesterday. My flight to Nashville has already been delayed an hour, which means I’m scheduled to land as my connecting flight is scheduled to begin boarding. Yes, today I get to be that crazed-looking woman running through the airport in heels, hose and a skirt that you’re guaranteed to see at least one of when you fly. So now you know she is not running with that wild look in her eyes because she overslept; she’s running because if she doesn’t make that next flight she just may have to stay the night in the next city, which means she won’t make it home by midnight, in which case her car will turn into a pumpkin…or something like that.
But I’m an eternal optimist (well, not really, but what the heck) so I have found something to be thankful for. When I sat down at my crowded gate I ended up across from a couple who looked like they were very close to consummating their relationship right in the airport terminal. It was one of those instances where you tried to avert your eyes but you’re so appalled and shocked by what you’re seeing that you can’t help but steal nervous glances. Why am I thankful, you ask? Because just a few minutes after I sat down it was time for them to board.
Anyhow, I suppose I’ll stop blogging and get some work done. I have this sneaking suspicion that this will be one of those days that I’ll have more to write about before the day is done. Until then…
Still Friday the 13th at 4 p.m.
Things are looking up, yet just as I typed these words I spilled a few drops of my Caramel Macchiato on my suit lapel. But novice traveler I am not. I whip out my handy travel packet of Wet Ones and clean up the mess just like that. I am warm, I’m drinking a Starbucks and I’m in the only comfortable chair I’ve sat in for two days.
I’m about to head back to the airport for my trip home (only two more flights left!), so the comfort will soon end, but I’ll enjoy it while it lasts.
Saturday April 14, 2007 at 8:05 a.m.
I’m feeling a strong connection with Bill Murray’s character in “Groundhog Day.” Or maybe it’s candid camera. Surely any moment now a camera crew and that big Italian guy are going to pop out from behind a fichus tree and yellow ‘Surprise!,” pay me for my inconveniences and whisk me home on a private jet.
I’m not writing this at home in my bathrobe, but in a suit that I’ve worn for the past three days. And I’m still in Indianapolis. Tornados in the Dallas-Fort Worth area caused my flight to Dallas to be delayed until they finally just cancelled. Lucky for me I was in Nashville visiting the Downtown Doubletree, so at least I was quickly able to secure a hotel room for the night.
I just made another gate change, and I’ve seen several people go up to the gate agent looking stressed and frustrated. I really don’t even want to know what the problem is at this point. What’s another delay? If I make it home by Memorial Day I’ll be happy. I’ll let you know.
Sunday, April 15, 2007 at 6 p.m.
I finally made it home yesterday by 2 p.m. I’ll count myself lucky after all since the flights out of Nashville that left both before and after my flight were cancelled. I have no idea why.
Anyhow, two naps, a good night’s sleep and an encouraging church service later, I’m feeling pretty good. I have another week before my next trip – to Orlando (finally some place warm!). Hopefully that won’t be a trip worth blogging about!
Finally I’ve updating my blog. My apologies to all you loyal readers (Jessica) for the long delay. Life has been a little hectic. I’m currently on my way (finally) to my sixth destination since March 1. I’ve now visited Salt Lake City, Portland, Minneapolis, Philadelphia, Dallas and I’m on my way to Indianapolis. I think. I’ll spend exactly 14 ½ hours there and then head out to Nashville for the afternoon and with a little luck I’ll be back in my bed at home by Friday at midnight. It’s getting to that point where I wake up in a hotel room and lay there for about ten seconds trying to remember exactly where I am. Yes, be jealous. It’s a glamorous life I lead.
Today was especially interesting. I woke at 4:30 a.m. to make a 7:25 flight out of OKC, but a little light on our assigned aircraft wasn’t working, and according to the gate agent, that was (and I quote) a “No no.” Two rescheduled flights and five hours later, they finally fixed the “no no” and we left about noon.
Anyhow, I’m on my last leg to Indy, and I was planning on reading a good chunk of “You Don’t Need a Title to be a Leader,” which is our current book club’s chosen selection at work. Just as I picked up my book and settled in, the guy behind me asked his first question to his neighbor…something about why she was going to Indy.
I tell you he has not stopped talking since. I’m not even sure he’s taken a breath. You know the average number of words that a guy supposedly uses in a day (which is significantly lower than women)? Well, I promise it’s even lower than stated for the average guy, because this jabber-box behind me brings the average way up.
I know all about his wife, his kids, his job, his family, his in-laws – and hers as well.
You have to give it to his neighbor. She’s really being a good sport about it, answering every question he fires at her as quickly as possible so that she can immediately take on the next one. I would have had to feign sleep, or a migraine or a stroke if that’s what it took. I always pray for the aircraft to take off and land safely when I fly, but on this flight I threw in a little extra “thank you” to God for not allowing me to set directly next to this incessant talker.
Friday, April 13, 2007 (Yes, Friday the 13th) at 9:15 p.m. Eastern
Today is a new day, but it feels a whole lot like yesterday. My flight to Nashville has already been delayed an hour, which means I’m scheduled to land as my connecting flight is scheduled to begin boarding. Yes, today I get to be that crazed-looking woman running through the airport in heels, hose and a skirt that you’re guaranteed to see at least one of when you fly. So now you know she is not running with that wild look in her eyes because she overslept; she’s running because if she doesn’t make that next flight she just may have to stay the night in the next city, which means she won’t make it home by midnight, in which case her car will turn into a pumpkin…or something like that.
But I’m an eternal optimist (well, not really, but what the heck) so I have found something to be thankful for. When I sat down at my crowded gate I ended up across from a couple who looked like they were very close to consummating their relationship right in the airport terminal. It was one of those instances where you tried to avert your eyes but you’re so appalled and shocked by what you’re seeing that you can’t help but steal nervous glances. Why am I thankful, you ask? Because just a few minutes after I sat down it was time for them to board.
Anyhow, I suppose I’ll stop blogging and get some work done. I have this sneaking suspicion that this will be one of those days that I’ll have more to write about before the day is done. Until then…
Still Friday the 13th at 4 p.m.
Things are looking up, yet just as I typed these words I spilled a few drops of my Caramel Macchiato on my suit lapel. But novice traveler I am not. I whip out my handy travel packet of Wet Ones and clean up the mess just like that. I am warm, I’m drinking a Starbucks and I’m in the only comfortable chair I’ve sat in for two days.
I’m about to head back to the airport for my trip home (only two more flights left!), so the comfort will soon end, but I’ll enjoy it while it lasts.
Saturday April 14, 2007 at 8:05 a.m.
I’m feeling a strong connection with Bill Murray’s character in “Groundhog Day.” Or maybe it’s candid camera. Surely any moment now a camera crew and that big Italian guy are going to pop out from behind a fichus tree and yellow ‘Surprise!,” pay me for my inconveniences and whisk me home on a private jet.
I’m not writing this at home in my bathrobe, but in a suit that I’ve worn for the past three days. And I’m still in Indianapolis. Tornados in the Dallas-Fort Worth area caused my flight to Dallas to be delayed until they finally just cancelled. Lucky for me I was in Nashville visiting the Downtown Doubletree, so at least I was quickly able to secure a hotel room for the night.
I just made another gate change, and I’ve seen several people go up to the gate agent looking stressed and frustrated. I really don’t even want to know what the problem is at this point. What’s another delay? If I make it home by Memorial Day I’ll be happy. I’ll let you know.
Sunday, April 15, 2007 at 6 p.m.
I finally made it home yesterday by 2 p.m. I’ll count myself lucky after all since the flights out of Nashville that left both before and after my flight were cancelled. I have no idea why.
Anyhow, two naps, a good night’s sleep and an encouraging church service later, I’m feeling pretty good. I have another week before my next trip – to Orlando (finally some place warm!). Hopefully that won’t be a trip worth blogging about!
Teddy is Back
I was watching television today and saw that some sort of Teddy Ruxpin lookalike is now on the market from Playskool. Remember Teddy? That lovable little bear that you'd pop a cassette tape into and he'd tell you a story, moving his eyes and mouth? My sister had one when we were little and she loved him. Well, like any mechanical toy, one day he started to malfunction. I can't remember if he wasn't working properly, or if he quit working altogether. Anyhow, my dad (who can fix just about anything) took it upon himself to fix Teddy. Long story short, to get to the actual mechanics of the bear, he had to remove all his fur. That's when we saw another side to Mr. Teddy Ruxpin. He wasn't cute or cuddly at all! He was downright creepy! That talking bear was nothing more than a hunk of metal and wires with two eyeballs and a mouth. He appeared like a mix between the Terminator and Chuckie (actually, Jenny's My Buddy looked a lot more like Chuckie, but that's a story for another day). Dad never did get Teddy back in working condition, but that's wasn't such bad news. After seeing this new and not-so-cute side to the talking bear, we weren't so keen on having him operable anyhow.
Back to Normal
Well, ILC is finally over (it actually ended last Saturday) and with the conclusion of ILC, it seems life is finally getting back to normal. I took yesterday and today off, so my house is clean and my laundry is caught up. The chaos of meeting planning has died down for now, and in a few days I should stop dreaming about this meeting that has been over for nearly a week.
The best news of all is that Chris is home for good and will begin working with his uncle's company again on Monday. Although he's only been working out of town for about eight weeks, it seems more like eight months. He said he doesn't care if he ever sees the inside of a restaurant again; he is quite tired of eating out.
ILC was quite the success overall. Our speakers were a hit, and every session went off without a hitch. There are always unexpected surprises every year, and this one included a last-minute visit by Senator John McCain during one general session. I'll spare you the details of how all that came about, but two days after he announced his bid for the presidency on David Letterman he was on our stage. He spoke for about ten minutes and did talk a bit about politics and the war in Iraq but not too much. None of our attendees had any idea he would be there, and given his celebrity I think most attendees - Republicans and Democrats - were plesantly surprised.
The final awards event finally ended at 11:08 p.m. on Saturday night (that particular event was supposed to end at 9:30). My guess was 10:58 p.m., so I wasn't far off.
The photo above is a pic of my boss, Teresa, and I testing out the mini bobsled run that our founders rode onto the stage on during the opening ceremonies Thursday morning. It was actually quite fun!
Hugs All Around
Day 2 in Salt Lake City, and many of our 588 franchisees have arrived in town. Nearly all of our conference attendees stay in our HQ hotel (the Grand America) so this place is covered in our folks, and let me tell you you've never seen such a hugging bunch of people. They love to hug! If I even accidentally get within two feet of a fellow Express person you're pretty much obligated to hug. And I'm not exactly the hugging type. But it is so fun to see so many people get together who enjoy each other and are so happy to be here. And I guess when you're that happy, a handshake just doesn't cut it.
Outside the Comfort Zone
Well, it's Day 1 in Salt Lake City, and as always on the travel day for conference we get to do a bit of sight-seeing. One co-worker suggested we go visit the Mormon Tabernacle located downtown, so we did. What we didn't realize was that if you're not Mormon, you don't get to go inside the actual temple, so it was more of a tour about the Mormon faith, it's history, and a soft sell by the Mormon folks.
There are a lot of young people there who are working their 18 months of volunteer work spreading the Mormon faith, and two of these young ladies served as our tour guides. After telling us about the history of their faith, they asked about ours. "What are your beliefs?" they asked. Three of us stood there for a second or two before we mumbled, "Christianity, Church of Christ, Charismatic Christianity, Non-denominational..." She wasn't familiar with any of the non-denominational denominations we blurted out.
"So...do you believe in prophets like we have today?" She was referring to Gordon B. Hinckley (current president of the Latter Day Saints) and the other Mormon prophets before him including Brigham Young and founder John Smith. "Uh..." we looked at each other and another co-worker managed to change the subject or redirect; I dropped to the back of the group.
Two things struck me about this little venture outside of our comfort zone today. One is the way these two young tour guides spoke with such conviction and passion about their faith. They were knowledgable and confident and so eager to share their beliefs. Regardless of the fact that to Christians many of their beliefs are terribly misguided, they stood firm in their faith and their excitement to share that faith with others.
The other and much more bothersome thing about my head-on encounter with this very different faith was how I lacked what these girls had. Have I ever shared my faith with complete strangers? Where would I begin? I certainly wouldn't want to offend anybody or make anyone uncomfortable. Do I speak with excitement and passion when talking about Christianity or what God has done for me lately? Have I spoken at all about what God has done for me lately?
I've grown up in the church all my life. I surround myself with people who share a similar faith, or at the very least don't disagree with mine. Hanging out with Christian family and friends has allowed me to stay within my comfort zone. I've never had to spout my beliefs and why I'm saved because no one has ever challenged me. And if I've seen a challenge coming, I've avoided it.
If I've learned anything today, it is that I need to stop relying on my church or my family to reiterate or outline Christianity for me. I must know it myself. I need to be able to tell others why Jesus is the reason for the hope that lies within me. And I need to be able to do it with confidence. With hope. And with passion.
My Crazy Dream
It's not only my crazy dream, but it's also the one I have the most. It's the same dream; it just changes based on what's going on in my life - the dream that I've forgotten something important. When I was a kid, I dreamed that it was time to go to church camp and I hadn't even started packing. When I was a waitress, I would forget about my tables. When I was getting married, it was my wedding day and nothing was done. You get the picture.
So, now that I'm preparing to go to Salt Lake City tomorrow, I'm packing anything and everything I think I might possibly need to make it a week away from home. Forget the fact that I'm sure there's a WalMart just down the street. I'll end up taking two large suitcases, one carry-on suitcase and my big tote bag with me, while most other co-workers manage to fit everything in one big suitcase and a carry-on.
My fear did actually partially come true this past summer when Chris and I went to Alaska. In our haste to round up our 7 or so suitcases and bags, we left one behind at the airport. Which one, you ask? The one that contained just about every article of warm clothing I had packed. And with a few gift shop purchases and the couple of warm items I had in another bag, I managed just fine. But that hasn't cured my obsession with over-packing.
So, now that I'm preparing to go to Salt Lake City tomorrow, I'm packing anything and everything I think I might possibly need to make it a week away from home. Forget the fact that I'm sure there's a WalMart just down the street. I'll end up taking two large suitcases, one carry-on suitcase and my big tote bag with me, while most other co-workers manage to fit everything in one big suitcase and a carry-on.
My fear did actually partially come true this past summer when Chris and I went to Alaska. In our haste to round up our 7 or so suitcases and bags, we left one behind at the airport. Which one, you ask? The one that contained just about every article of warm clothing I had packed. And with a few gift shop purchases and the couple of warm items I had in another bag, I managed just fine. But that hasn't cured my obsession with over-packing.
Salt Lake City or Bust
Monday I leave for a week to help put on our company's International Leadeeship Conference in Salt Lake City. My role includes scripts and speeches and other activities that happen in our general session room. There will be about 1,000 attendees, and everything that goes on in that room is live, so there's always room for error. And there always are errors, but the most important thing is that the audience never notices any mistakes.
Our department works hard to make sure everything is as planned out as possible. The entire event is scripted and timed down to the minute, but there are always those things that crop up at the last minute. The actual conference begins on Wednesday and ends on Saturday night after about a four hour awards ceremony. But that's the good news. This particular event used to push midnight, and now we anticipate it ending at around 10:30.
We usually put in 18 hour days once the show finally gets going, but it really is a lot of fun. We work like maniacs but somehow manage to have a blast. As crazy as it sounds, I can't wait for it to be here, and once it's over, I'm always looking forward to next year.
Our department works hard to make sure everything is as planned out as possible. The entire event is scripted and timed down to the minute, but there are always those things that crop up at the last minute. The actual conference begins on Wednesday and ends on Saturday night after about a four hour awards ceremony. But that's the good news. This particular event used to push midnight, and now we anticipate it ending at around 10:30.
We usually put in 18 hour days once the show finally gets going, but it really is a lot of fun. We work like maniacs but somehow manage to have a blast. As crazy as it sounds, I can't wait for it to be here, and once it's over, I'm always looking forward to next year.
Little Big Sister
Chris and I went to Bristow this weekend to visit my parents, grandparents and our family friends, the Hueys. No matter how hectic and busy our lives are, we always enjoy going to Bristow. We made the usual rounds, visiting with Mike and Elaine Huey and their parents who were in town, spending a good part of Saturday with my parents and Grandma Nellie who dropped by, and then going over to my other set of grandparents to visit with them. It was a typical weekend of eating and visiting, but the highlight by far was seeing my little sister.
My sister, Jenny, is three years younger than me. In the past 10 months she has gotten married, moved to Tulsa, gotten pregnant, graduated from college and started teaching (in that order). Talk about watching your sister grow up overnight! And now, before my very eyes, she's becoming a mother.
Jenny is now just past the four-month mark, and she's finally beginning to look pregnant. "Show me your belly!" is the first thing that came out of my mouth when she walked in the front door. I just couldn't stop staring at it. It's so weird but so fun to watch my "little" sister (and only sibling) have the first baby in our family. As the oldest, I've always been the one to experience all the firsts - first to ride a bike, drive a car, go to college, get married - so watching Jenny finally be first something, and especially at having a baby, is really quite fun.
Jenny has become quite the young woman, and as she gets a head start on motherhood, I'm looking forward to looking up to her for a change. And she's probably glad that pregnancy is one topic of which I have little knowledge, and therefore no authority to play "boss," as is my still accustomed older-sister role. Old habits do die hard, but this time I'm happy not to be first.
My sister, Jenny, is three years younger than me. In the past 10 months she has gotten married, moved to Tulsa, gotten pregnant, graduated from college and started teaching (in that order). Talk about watching your sister grow up overnight! And now, before my very eyes, she's becoming a mother.
Jenny is now just past the four-month mark, and she's finally beginning to look pregnant. "Show me your belly!" is the first thing that came out of my mouth when she walked in the front door. I just couldn't stop staring at it. It's so weird but so fun to watch my "little" sister (and only sibling) have the first baby in our family. As the oldest, I've always been the one to experience all the firsts - first to ride a bike, drive a car, go to college, get married - so watching Jenny finally be first something, and especially at having a baby, is really quite fun.
Jenny has become quite the young woman, and as she gets a head start on motherhood, I'm looking forward to looking up to her for a change. And she's probably glad that pregnancy is one topic of which I have little knowledge, and therefore no authority to play "boss," as is my still accustomed older-sister role. Old habits do die hard, but this time I'm happy not to be first.
TGIF...Again
It's amazing how much we miss the little things in life when they disappear - especially without warning.
Such was the case yesterday morning after I got out of the shower. Just as I was about to begin drying my hair the electricity went out. Then it came back on. Then it went out again. And it was gone for good. I fumbled around for the lighter, the candles, the spotlight and the whiskey (just kidding) and used the oh-so-loved automated voice system to inform OG&E that I had no electricity. You gotta love a pre-recorded voice that informs you that, "All of our customer service representatives are busy serving other customers right now. For immediate assistance, please log onto our web site at www.oge.com." I would if I had POWER.
Long story short, I arrived to work resembling something between a drowned rat and a sea urchin and proceeded to finish drying my hair. Not exactly how you want to start your day, but thankfully the electricity was back on by the time I arrived home.
This morning I regretfully dragged myself out of bed and turned on my shower. Just as I stepped into the warm water - the water stopped running. But the electricity was still on. What was the deal?! And then it hit me. THE PIPES ARE FROZEN. On one of the coldest nights of the year, I forgot to leave our faucets dripping.
Sooo, I got dressed again, grabbed my trusty blow dryer and trudged outside and into the well house at 6:30 a.m. It took about 15 minutes, but my little Conair 1500 got the job done. For the second day in a row I was 20 minutes late for work, but at I was fully assembled when I arrived today.
Once again, thank goodness tomorrow is Friday.
Such was the case yesterday morning after I got out of the shower. Just as I was about to begin drying my hair the electricity went out. Then it came back on. Then it went out again. And it was gone for good. I fumbled around for the lighter, the candles, the spotlight and the whiskey (just kidding) and used the oh-so-loved automated voice system to inform OG&E that I had no electricity. You gotta love a pre-recorded voice that informs you that, "All of our customer service representatives are busy serving other customers right now. For immediate assistance, please log onto our web site at www.oge.com." I would if I had POWER.
Long story short, I arrived to work resembling something between a drowned rat and a sea urchin and proceeded to finish drying my hair. Not exactly how you want to start your day, but thankfully the electricity was back on by the time I arrived home.
This morning I regretfully dragged myself out of bed and turned on my shower. Just as I stepped into the warm water - the water stopped running. But the electricity was still on. What was the deal?! And then it hit me. THE PIPES ARE FROZEN. On one of the coldest nights of the year, I forgot to leave our faucets dripping.
Sooo, I got dressed again, grabbed my trusty blow dryer and trudged outside and into the well house at 6:30 a.m. It took about 15 minutes, but my little Conair 1500 got the job done. For the second day in a row I was 20 minutes late for work, but at I was fully assembled when I arrived today.
Once again, thank goodness tomorrow is Friday.
Nursery Day
Every second Sunday of the month Chris and I work in the nursery at church with another adult and his teenage son. Our designated age group is around two years old, and this Sunday we had 11 kids! From when we check in at 10:15 to when the last child checks out at 11:50, we are four diaper-changing, nose-wiping, chaos-organizing maniacs. Our morning always goes something like this (note that names have been changed to protect the innocent):
"Good morning! Hi, how are you all doing? Oh, Suzy, you look so cute in your little skirt. Uh oh, somebody needs a Kleenex. Big blow. Is it normal for it to be green? Jimmy, sweetie, get down off the table. Feet on the floor, please. Ohhh, somebody smells dirty. Sam, are you dirty? No, it's not Sam. Jack, are you dirty? Ohmygosh I think I'm going to throw up. Found the dirty one! Okay, let's get you changed. Fifteen diaper wipes later. Okay! All clean. Don't you feel better? Must go wash hands immediately. Make mental note not to wear dry-clean only clothes when working nursery. Joe, honey, that's not your drink. Here's your drink. Adam, that's not your pacifier, honey. Here's your pacifier. You want your mommy? Your mommy will be here in just a minute! As in approximately 65 minutes."
And repeat the exercise above approximately five - six times.
Working in the nursery is exhausting to say the least, but it's fun. The kids already have such diverse and fun personalities, and it's so fun to watch them interact with each other. It also gives us a renewed respect for parents of toddlers. After the last child is picked up, Chris and I are exhausted. But for the parents of these kids, their day has just started. It makes me need a nap just thinking about it.
"Good morning! Hi, how are you all doing? Oh, Suzy, you look so cute in your little skirt. Uh oh, somebody needs a Kleenex. Big blow. Is it normal for it to be green? Jimmy, sweetie, get down off the table. Feet on the floor, please. Ohhh, somebody smells dirty. Sam, are you dirty? No, it's not Sam. Jack, are you dirty? Ohmygosh I think I'm going to throw up. Found the dirty one! Okay, let's get you changed. Fifteen diaper wipes later. Okay! All clean. Don't you feel better? Must go wash hands immediately. Make mental note not to wear dry-clean only clothes when working nursery. Joe, honey, that's not your drink. Here's your drink. Adam, that's not your pacifier, honey. Here's your pacifier. You want your mommy? Your mommy will be here in just a minute! As in approximately 65 minutes."
And repeat the exercise above approximately five - six times.
Working in the nursery is exhausting to say the least, but it's fun. The kids already have such diverse and fun personalities, and it's so fun to watch them interact with each other. It also gives us a renewed respect for parents of toddlers. After the last child is picked up, Chris and I are exhausted. But for the parents of these kids, their day has just started. It makes me need a nap just thinking about it.
Hello, Old Friend
A familiar friend has returned this week with which I have a love-hate relationship. When it's around, my work is exciting and busy, school flies by and there's never a dull moment. When it's gone, I'm calm and relaxed, but then I often feel anxious, waiting for the next project or exciting adventure to appear. Who, or more appropriately, what is this old friend, you ask? Oh, you know it well, I'm sure. It's stress.
What's that old cliche? Can't live with it, can't live without it. Stress is often the motivating factor under which I complete time-sensitive work and school projects, but it's also that annoying thing that makes my shoulders and neck knot up, and if things are really crazy, it makes my heart feel like it's skipping beats (don't worry; had that checked out last year). Chris claims it even makes me cranky. Well, I'm not so sure about that...
School projects are cropping up, and one of my classes ends the very week I'll be in Salt Lake City helping to produce our company's annual conference. Right now I'm in the midst of writing the scripts for virtually every word that will be spoken on stage. Did I mention that this conference begins in two weeks, six days and 22 hours? But I love it! I love the way work gets chaotic and everyone is running in a million directions but we're all working toward the same goal. It's so rewarding to have the opportunity to have a hand in writing every script and speech that is delivered from the stage.
I love my job, and even though school is demanding and stressful, I really enjoy it too. If it wasn't for my Blogs class I wouldn't be doing this blog, and I really enjoy blogging. It's hasn't been easy taking classes over the past three years, but I have learned a lot, and I know I've benefited greatly from pursuing my masters degree.
It really isn't school, work, church or housework that's overwhelming. It's all of them combined. But I know that this too will pass. May will be here before I know it, and all this craziness will be a vague memory.
I also know that there are so many people in the world who would love school and work to be their biggest problems. So, for the comparatively little stress that I do have, I'll be thankful. My sister is expecting her first child in July (it will be the first grandchild in my family) and my dad recently said that instead of worrying about so many things, we should pray for a new set of fingers and toes. Now that helps put things in perspective.
What's that old cliche? Can't live with it, can't live without it. Stress is often the motivating factor under which I complete time-sensitive work and school projects, but it's also that annoying thing that makes my shoulders and neck knot up, and if things are really crazy, it makes my heart feel like it's skipping beats (don't worry; had that checked out last year). Chris claims it even makes me cranky. Well, I'm not so sure about that...
School projects are cropping up, and one of my classes ends the very week I'll be in Salt Lake City helping to produce our company's annual conference. Right now I'm in the midst of writing the scripts for virtually every word that will be spoken on stage. Did I mention that this conference begins in two weeks, six days and 22 hours? But I love it! I love the way work gets chaotic and everyone is running in a million directions but we're all working toward the same goal. It's so rewarding to have the opportunity to have a hand in writing every script and speech that is delivered from the stage.
I love my job, and even though school is demanding and stressful, I really enjoy it too. If it wasn't for my Blogs class I wouldn't be doing this blog, and I really enjoy blogging. It's hasn't been easy taking classes over the past three years, but I have learned a lot, and I know I've benefited greatly from pursuing my masters degree.
It really isn't school, work, church or housework that's overwhelming. It's all of them combined. But I know that this too will pass. May will be here before I know it, and all this craziness will be a vague memory.
I also know that there are so many people in the world who would love school and work to be their biggest problems. So, for the comparatively little stress that I do have, I'll be thankful. My sister is expecting her first child in July (it will be the first grandchild in my family) and my dad recently said that instead of worrying about so many things, we should pray for a new set of fingers and toes. Now that helps put things in perspective.
A New (Unwelcome) Guest
This furry creature captured by our game camera is not cute or welcome; it's a coyote. Molly has already had one run in with him, and despite her usual "bring it on" attitude, this time she tucked her little tail between her legs and headed for the hills (our back porch). By the time Chris figured out what was going on and grabbed his shotgun, the coyote was already gone.
The good news is these guys are nocturnal, so hopefully he and Molly (who sleeps in the house) won't cross paths. There are many benefits to living in the country, but varmints like this one are not one of them.
TGIF
I'm always glad to see Friday roll around, but I was even happier when the clock struck 5 p.m. today. It was quite a week for Chris and me! My Monday started out with a sick dog; Molly (see last week's post for more about her) woke me up coughing and wheezing. I ended up taking her to the vet and she had bronchitis! What kind of a dog gets bronchitis? A shot, two prescriptions (an antibiotic and a cough suppressant) and $110 later and she's almost back to her old self. And for the third year in a row, we've spend more on Molly's medical bills than we have our own. But, we still love her. Go figure.
On Tuesday I went to visit a new doctor (no big deal) and had to take some forms with me. One of them that I had to complete had mine and Chris's name, our address, social security numbers, etc. on it. When I made it into the doctor's office, I couldn't find the forms. Must've left 'em in my car. Went to my car. No forms. Must've lost 'em. Now, some pain medicine addict leaving the Mercy emergency room (adjacent to the doctor's office) has all my personal information. Thankfully, a few hours later I discovered they had simply fallen under my driver's seat. That was a relief.
Chris has had quite the week as well. He's currently working for a company installing a sprinkler system in a cave in Missouri where it's about -20 degrees Fahrenheit. That might be a little exaggeration, but not much. They have to wear special suits and socks just to stay warm.
Weeks like this can cause one to focus on negative, but despite all the craziness this week had to offer, there were some bright spots too. The bad weather caused UCO to cancel class Wednesday night, so I got to go straight home from work rather than go to my two-hour class. Although Chris's job is very cold and distant right now, he has a job, and that's something for which we're very thankful. And besides little Molly, the rest of our family and extended family are in fairly good health. I guess you just have to keep it all in perspective, and thank God for Fridays.
On Tuesday I went to visit a new doctor (no big deal) and had to take some forms with me. One of them that I had to complete had mine and Chris's name, our address, social security numbers, etc. on it. When I made it into the doctor's office, I couldn't find the forms. Must've left 'em in my car. Went to my car. No forms. Must've lost 'em. Now, some pain medicine addict leaving the Mercy emergency room (adjacent to the doctor's office) has all my personal information. Thankfully, a few hours later I discovered they had simply fallen under my driver's seat. That was a relief.
Chris has had quite the week as well. He's currently working for a company installing a sprinkler system in a cave in Missouri where it's about -20 degrees Fahrenheit. That might be a little exaggeration, but not much. They have to wear special suits and socks just to stay warm.
Weeks like this can cause one to focus on negative, but despite all the craziness this week had to offer, there were some bright spots too. The bad weather caused UCO to cancel class Wednesday night, so I got to go straight home from work rather than go to my two-hour class. Although Chris's job is very cold and distant right now, he has a job, and that's something for which we're very thankful. And besides little Molly, the rest of our family and extended family are in fairly good health. I guess you just have to keep it all in perspective, and thank God for Fridays.
Meet Molly
"The average dog is a nicer person than the average person."- Andy Rooney
This little muscle-bound dog guarding the pile of corn from local wildlife is Molly, our 3 1/2 year old Jack Russell Terrier, or Terror, depending on the day. Molly was my gift on our two-year wedding anniversary though she's really Chris's dog. She's quite the tom boy and does her best to keep our little eight acres clear of cats, mice, deer, raccoons, squirrels, crows and of course other dogs. She's so intent on standing her ground that she even insists on "marking" her territory, going so far as to do her best in hiking her little leg to pee. We've afraid she might have some gender confusion issues, but like any good parents, we love her anyway.
Molly spends her days making her rounds while Chris and I are at work. She's not fenced in, so she visits various neighbors and has little trails she travels every day through the woods and beyond; we really have no idea what she does from 7 a.m. - 4 p.m. But she must get her exercise; she's solid muscle and never runs out of energy. She spends her evenings in Chris's lap in the recliner, and then around 9 p.m. she jumps up and heads to her crate in our bedroom regardless of whether or not we're ready for bed.
Now, don't get me wrong. Molly has been quite the little 12 lbs. of trouble since we got her three years ago. She's nearly went bald from a non-contagious form of the mange (a daily dose of heart worm pills took care of that). And we nearly poisoned her to death by bathing her regularly with a brand of puppy shampoo that, unbeknownst to us, was poisoning her, causing her to constantly throw up. And of course, the more she threw up, the more she stayed in the house, and the more we bathed her. It cost about $300 in testing and vet bills before Chris figured out what was really causing her to be sick.
But nothing tops last Christmas when we took Molly to my grandparents house. We left Molly in the yard to chase the wild cats, knowing well that she wouldn't catch one, but that the pursuit would certainly keep her occupied for a few hours. We were right; she didn't catch a cat. But she did do several hundred dollars damage to my grandparents' car and truck as she ripped out wires and light bulbs and even a plastic fender well while pursuing a few cats that took refuge under my grandma and grandpa's vehicles.
When Chris went to check on Molly, there she was standing amidst broken headlight bulbs and wire fragments, covered in grease and wagging her tail. We could have died! We promptly loaded the little devil up and headed to the ATM machine to make a down payment toward fixing the destruction she caused. My grandparents refused the money, though, and my grandpa (the most frugal man on Earth) managed to wire everything back together and only spending about $5 dollars in the process.
But despite the expensive vet visits, the vehicle destruction and the fact that she sheds everywhere, we love the little mutt and really enjoy having her around. As Roger Caras said, "Dogs are not our whole life, but they certainly help make our lives whole."
Good Intentions and Weak Will
I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful
nature. For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out. For
what I do is not the good I want to do; no, the evil I do not want to do—this I
keep on doing. Now if I do what I do not want to do, it is no longer I who do
it, but it is sin living in me that does it.Romans 7:18 - 20 (NIV)
Chris and I finally broke down and joined the 21st century a few weeks ago by ordering Dish. Now that we have cable, I can finally watch the shows I always see previewed on the television in my hotel rooms when I travel. One show I've been wanting to watch for quite some time is Intervention.
For those of you who haven't seen this show, it focuses on a person who has an addiction (i.e. alcoholism, drugs, gambling, etc.). At the end of the show, that person's family and friends host an intervention. On the few episodes that I've seen, the addict always agrees to go to some sort of rehab in the end. However, whether or not they stay in rehab and then are successful in "beating" their addiction is a different story.
It's so easy to sit in my recliner and become exasperated with these addicts. How can they throw away their family, lives, money, jobs, etc. for alcohol or drugs? It's so frustrating to watch them as they struggle with their addiction and then see them head off to rehab with a new-found hope, only to learn in the end their spouse is divorcing them because they went back to their old self-destructive habits.
But, the truth is that many of us have something in our lives with which we struggle daily; for me it's food. No, I'm not "overweight." By some standards I could probably even stand to gain a few pounds. But that's not the point. Every day I wake up and say, "I'm going to eat healthy today. I'm going to stay away from sweets. I'm going to order a salad at Chili's instead of a cheeseburger." And what do I usually do by the end of the day? Snack all afternoon. Eat too much sugar. Order the cheeseburger.
Drugs and alcohol may be more destructive than a daily candy bar or a cheeseburger with fries, and they're definitely more addictive. But regardless of the weakness or the addiction, it seems to boil down to the verse listed above, and how we as humans struggle daily to make the right choices, but so often our sinful nature and weak will seem to triumph.
Tonight Chris and I had dinner at Outback. I probably ate the equivalent of a loaf of their delicious honey wheat bread in addition to half my meal (and a side salad with Ranch dressing). Then (even though I was quite satisfied), I couldn't resist ordering the "Chocolate Chocolate Tower" with raspberry sauce. It was probably enough cake for a party of six! Of course Chris and I managed to make a sizable dent in the giant hunk of chocolate cake. Now I really regret that dessert (though I won't admit that to Chris!). I'm too full to sleep. Tomorrow I plan on starting my day by going into the gym and then eating smarter.
My weak will won over tonight, but tomorrow is a new day and another opportunity to start anew. And maybe tomorrow will be the day I start eating healthier for good. And maybe I'll mess it up again. But I'm definitely going to keep trying.
The Tale of the Crucified Crook
One book I'm currently reading is called "No Wonder They Call Him The Savior" by Max Lucado, a popular Christian author. This book examines the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. It reads between the lines of this familiar (for many) Bible story of Jesus's crucifixion and paints a picture for the reader of what many of the instances must have been like, such as witnessing Peter's denial of Jesus or Pilate's hesitancy to sentence Jesus to death.
My favorite chapter in the book so far is on the thief on the cross. In this chapter, Lucado has the reader examine what Jesus was trying to teach us by telling the thief that he would go to heaven when he surely deserved to go to hell. He begins by pointing out that our value systems are so messed up today. Clothes and other material possessions go for top dollar, but the value of humans is at an all-time low, he says. Lucado says that man's value system is based on two criteria: appearance and performance.
He then points the reader to look at God's value system where man has hope and a destiny beyond what this world has to offer. He goes on to say that the lesson Jesus sought to teach us from the thief on the cross was that "a person is worth something simply because he is a person." Throughout the Bible Jesus simply forgives people even when they don't deserve forgiveness.
Lucado's illustration of the conversation between the thief and Jesus goes like this:
Thief: Any chance you could put in a good word for me?
Jesus: Consider it done.
And that was it. Jesus was illustrating once again that his love for us doesn't depend on what we can do for him. We are valuable no matter what. And now to my favorite part of Lucado's point and the end of the chapter where he writes:
"And it also makes me smile to think that there is a grinning ex-con walking the golden streets who knows more about grace than a thousand theologians. No one else would have given him a prayer. But in the end that's all he had. And in the end that's all it took. No wonder they call him the Savior."
That powerful illustration gives me chills. And besides the obviously lesson on grace and the love of God, it's also a good illustration on the grace we bestow on one another. How many times in a day do we become impatient and short tempered with family, co-workers and customer service representatives for minor inconveniences, when Jesus has forgiven us of all our sins? What a wonderful lesson on not only the grace we've received, but also the grace we should give.
My favorite chapter in the book so far is on the thief on the cross. In this chapter, Lucado has the reader examine what Jesus was trying to teach us by telling the thief that he would go to heaven when he surely deserved to go to hell. He begins by pointing out that our value systems are so messed up today. Clothes and other material possessions go for top dollar, but the value of humans is at an all-time low, he says. Lucado says that man's value system is based on two criteria: appearance and performance.
He then points the reader to look at God's value system where man has hope and a destiny beyond what this world has to offer. He goes on to say that the lesson Jesus sought to teach us from the thief on the cross was that "a person is worth something simply because he is a person." Throughout the Bible Jesus simply forgives people even when they don't deserve forgiveness.
Lucado's illustration of the conversation between the thief and Jesus goes like this:
Thief: Any chance you could put in a good word for me?
Jesus: Consider it done.
And that was it. Jesus was illustrating once again that his love for us doesn't depend on what we can do for him. We are valuable no matter what. And now to my favorite part of Lucado's point and the end of the chapter where he writes:
"And it also makes me smile to think that there is a grinning ex-con walking the golden streets who knows more about grace than a thousand theologians. No one else would have given him a prayer. But in the end that's all he had. And in the end that's all it took. No wonder they call him the Savior."
That powerful illustration gives me chills. And besides the obviously lesson on grace and the love of God, it's also a good illustration on the grace we bestow on one another. How many times in a day do we become impatient and short tempered with family, co-workers and customer service representatives for minor inconveniences, when Jesus has forgiven us of all our sins? What a wonderful lesson on not only the grace we've received, but also the grace we should give.
The Phenomena of MySpace
MySpace is an unbelievably popular way for people of all ages to communicate and stay in touch now days. I used to think it was for teenagers. Boy was I wrong! After learning that one could search for old schoolmates, I decided to check it out. I couldn't believe how many people my age and older who I went to school with have a site on MySpace. It's like a virtual high school reunion! Who married who, who has kids, who looks totally different and who hasn't changed at all.
But, I still don't get the appeal of all the "friends" and the bios and the messages. Maybe it's because I've never been a very social person. I've always preferred having a few close friends than many good acquaintances. I have trouble staying in touch with the few friends I have; in fact, I really don't have any good friends outside of family, work and church.
I wonder if MySpace is a fad, if it will go the way of the chat rooms that were popular when I was in high school. Or will MySpace continue to evolve and more and more users will continue to log on? I'm not sure, but I do know it's not for me.
But, I still don't get the appeal of all the "friends" and the bios and the messages. Maybe it's because I've never been a very social person. I've always preferred having a few close friends than many good acquaintances. I have trouble staying in touch with the few friends I have; in fact, I really don't have any good friends outside of family, work and church.
I wonder if MySpace is a fad, if it will go the way of the chat rooms that were popular when I was in high school. Or will MySpace continue to evolve and more and more users will continue to log on? I'm not sure, but I do know it's not for me.
Ford F250: 0, Angus Cow: 0, Richard & Chris: 1
What happens when your life flashes before your eyes? Some say they see a bright light. Others see the faces of their loved ones. For Richard and Chris that flash looked like a big, black Angus cow.
Chris and Richard headed out hog hunting last Saturday outside of Bristow at about 6 a.m. At about that time, a local farmer's cows had gotten out of their fence, and one of them decided to hang out in the middle of the highway. You can guess what happened next. As Richard and Chris rounded the top of a hill Chris had just enough time to shout "COW!" before it was too late. They smacked the cow going 65+ miles an hour.
Brakes slammed. Airbags deployed. And down into an embankment they went. Chris was buckled up and didn't even hit the airbag. Richard wasn't, and his head hit the roof. But, to make a long story short, both were fine. Chris didn't even have a bruise or a scratch on him, and Richard was only a little sore.
Unfortunately, the same could not be said for the cow nor the truck. Thankfully Richard had his truck raised 6" recently, so the cow went under the truck instead of over it. The truck is probably totaled, and the cow, well, the cow probably didn't know what hit him.
This freak accident was one of those instances that makes us all realize how quickly life can change, though fortunately after this incident not much changed at all, though we now keep a sharper eye out for fellow drivers, pedestrians and cows.
Chris and Richard headed out hog hunting last Saturday outside of Bristow at about 6 a.m. At about that time, a local farmer's cows had gotten out of their fence, and one of them decided to hang out in the middle of the highway. You can guess what happened next. As Richard and Chris rounded the top of a hill Chris had just enough time to shout "COW!" before it was too late. They smacked the cow going 65+ miles an hour.
Brakes slammed. Airbags deployed. And down into an embankment they went. Chris was buckled up and didn't even hit the airbag. Richard wasn't, and his head hit the roof. But, to make a long story short, both were fine. Chris didn't even have a bruise or a scratch on him, and Richard was only a little sore.
Unfortunately, the same could not be said for the cow nor the truck. Thankfully Richard had his truck raised 6" recently, so the cow went under the truck instead of over it. The truck is probably totaled, and the cow, well, the cow probably didn't know what hit him.
This freak accident was one of those instances that makes us all realize how quickly life can change, though fortunately after this incident not much changed at all, though we now keep a sharper eye out for fellow drivers, pedestrians and cows.
Four racoons, three deer and a fox
Every year around Dec. 15 I face the same predicament - What in the world am I gonna get Chris for Christmas? I have a long rap sheet of failed gifts...the James Avery ring that said "I am my love's and she is mine," (he actually RETURNED it!) or the clothes that are always a size too big or too small. But this year, I finally got it right!
I bought a game camera, which for those of you non-hunting types means a camera that you post outside to take pictures of wild game or in some cases a Jack Russell Terrier named Molly. The camera (or the corn on the ground in front of it) has been a huge success among the furry little critters in our little corner of Guthrie, including several button bucks (i.e. male deer with tiny antlers poking out), a whole family of raccoons and even a red fox (which, much to Chris's chagrin, opted to use the corn Chris provided as a toilet rather than his midnight snack!).
So, the highlight of Chris's evenings now is to see what appeared before the camera the night before, and I finally got it right this Christmas. The only problem is his birthday is March 1st - just around the corner! Any suggestions?
I bought a game camera, which for those of you non-hunting types means a camera that you post outside to take pictures of wild game or in some cases a Jack Russell Terrier named Molly. The camera (or the corn on the ground in front of it) has been a huge success among the furry little critters in our little corner of Guthrie, including several button bucks (i.e. male deer with tiny antlers poking out), a whole family of raccoons and even a red fox (which, much to Chris's chagrin, opted to use the corn Chris provided as a toilet rather than his midnight snack!).
So, the highlight of Chris's evenings now is to see what appeared before the camera the night before, and I finally got it right this Christmas. The only problem is his birthday is March 1st - just around the corner! Any suggestions?