Last Saturday JA and I participated in a 5k Walk/Run local event. Of course my intention was to begin exercising for the two weeks before the event, when I asked JA if she wanted company. I can honestly admit that I did walk on several occasions leading up to the event, but not nearly as much as I wanted, hoped or desired. I just struggled finding the motivation.
My largest issue seems to be the 0-15 minute phase of any physical activity. The inner battles and demons always seem to prevail and I manage to not exercise. Once I have managed to struggle through the first 15 minutes, I am usually fine and then an endurance switch flips and I usually don't want to stop. While I had to be at the locale at 7:30a.m. to pick up my t-shirt, I remotely considered walking before the event started to warm up. I did have some fear that I couldn't keep up with JA as she walks on her treadmill four miles uphill many times a week.
Needless to say, we completed the walk and I survived. I wouldn't say that I had an adrenaline rush which motivated me. Shame motivated me. Motivated me to want to do better. Motivated me to want to jog. Something about watching a 70 year old man shuffle jog past as we walked. When we started the "race" the peer pressure of everyone jogging/running by had us jog on the track out of the stadium and onto the course. Despite taking my inhaler, I couldn't jog long so we stopped and walked. Quickly I had some intense shin splints but I knew that I could press on for a measly three miles, I didn't have much choice. Although I constantly felt like JA's dead weight and it wasn't a good feeling.
We weren't the last ones to finish, but clearly I think we may have been only a few to set out to complete the event by walking it's entirety. Two high school girls would pass us walking and then we would pass them. Both JA and I felt like we were walking faster but their walk looked so nonchalant and relaxed compared to ours. When we reached the track of the stadium we again jogged to the finish line.
JA sent me a link to our results a few days later. I hadn't bothered to look at what time we started or finished so I really had no idea. I know when I trained for the 3 day I could endurance walk a 13.5 minute mile but tried to slow down to a 15 minute mile for the sanity of my feet, knees and body. Needless to say, I was shocked when I opened up the results and saw that we completed the 5k in 36 minutes.
It almost makes me want to actually train and see if I can push myself to jog a 5k and see if I can physically complete. Then my rational side takes over as I laugh at myself and taunt myself to start with baby steps and see if a mile is even obtainable.
Why is it that fear and ourselves can be our worst demon? What is it that truly holds me back?
Showing posts with label Friends. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Friends. Show all posts
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Monday, February 21, 2011
Chicago & Chocolate Walking Tour II
Last weekend was a whirlwind trip to the windy city, Chicago to participate in the walking Chocolate tour. Three of us went and had a fabulous time!
We met some great people from the waiter at Frontera Grill, Rick Bayless' restaurant. We had a great time and D being the huge R.B. fan was beyond ecstatic when he made a quick appearance by walking into the restaurant! The train ride home was fun after meeting the cousins that were heading home to Columbus, Indiana. We even talked about a road trip to visit them in upcoming months! Of course there was the initiated contact I had with an officer for directions who later found our girlfriend and asked her if she would stay the night and entertain him!
We had some fantastic food and great chocolate! Fortunately with all the walking we did, we offset the great treats! Here are some that we managed to take pictures of before devouring:
We met some great people from the waiter at Frontera Grill, Rick Bayless' restaurant. We had a great time and D being the huge R.B. fan was beyond ecstatic when he made a quick appearance by walking into the restaurant! The train ride home was fun after meeting the cousins that were heading home to Columbus, Indiana. We even talked about a road trip to visit them in upcoming months! Of course there was the initiated contact I had with an officer for directions who later found our girlfriend and asked her if she would stay the night and entertain him!
We had some fantastic food and great chocolate! Fortunately with all the walking we did, we offset the great treats! Here are some that we managed to take pictures of before devouring:
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| Frontera Grill: Appetizer Plate for three |
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| More: Double Chocolate Mini Cupcakes |
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| Cityscape: Grilled Seafood Salad (octopus & calamari w/arugula & fennel) |
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| Cityscape: Scallop & Shrimp Ceviche |
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| Cityscape: Ricotta Cheesecake (amaretto, strawberries & raspberries) |
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| Cityscape: Dark Chocolate w/macaroons |
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| Frontera Grill: Duo De Flanes (dark chocolate w/red chili bacon and vanilla) & Homemade Ice Cream (Vanilla & Coffee with goat milk caramel and hot fudge) |
Friday, February 11, 2011
Chicago & Chocolate Tour
My girlfriend D mentioned going to Chicago to take the walking Chocolate Tour. While not exactly part of my new plan to lose ten pounds by Spring Break, everything - chocolate included - can be consumed in moderation. Of course the moderation is what I have issues with, but that's neither here nor there.
We discussed the possibilities of the tour with the new women's group we have been attending. Several were interested. Of course interest and follow through are two completely different things, but that's OK too!
So the plans are in the making to make a weekend overnight trip to the Windy City including the Chocolate walking tour, a couple great dining locales and staying out of too much mischief! The options are endless including the transit from driving, train or local transit and for those that want a day trip, overnight to weekend.
Interested?
We discussed the possibilities of the tour with the new women's group we have been attending. Several were interested. Of course interest and follow through are two completely different things, but that's OK too!
So the plans are in the making to make a weekend overnight trip to the Windy City including the Chocolate walking tour, a couple great dining locales and staying out of too much mischief! The options are endless including the transit from driving, train or local transit and for those that want a day trip, overnight to weekend.
Interested?
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
'Tis the Season to Give Thanks
'Tis the Season of Christmas. Christmas and holidays can be very difficult and stressful times. I am feeling absolutely fortunate and blessed. I do feel that I am never given more than I can handle, despite questioning and wondering the validity of that statement at times. I have a survivor mentality and personality and most of all the best mother and friend I could ever want or ask!
I am so very thankful for my mom and her husband. For their love, support and faith. For their selflessness and their unconditional love. For their acceptance and guidance and nurturance. For their ability to listen, console and advise. For their ability to be fabulous grandparents, parents and friends.
I am thankful for my health, my son, my employment, my sanity, my family and my friends to name a few. I know that silently I give thanks. I recognize who I am and the opportunities and experiences I have endured. The road less traveled, the road of speed bumps and the Sunday scenic drives along the path that often seems like a six-lane expressway.
At this holiday season, I feel blessed. I AM blessed.
I wish and hope for you: Wishing a blessed, safe and happy holiday season to you and yours!
Friday, November 5, 2010
Weekend Recap Part II: Water Line & Lack of Linebacker
If you haven't read Part I yet, here is the recap. Long story short, my basement looks super fabulous and much less congested with non-functional potentially leaking gas lines!
Of course, I couldn't find myself doing nothing while Freddie worked diligently on beautifying my basement. I did attempt to stay out of his way by being upstairs, but he called me for assistance and then I decided I should be close by to help. We enjoyed several hours of conversation including his becoming a snobby foodie and his favorite dishes to cook as well as traveling. I worked on freeing up a couple of old galvanized water line pipes that were put through a cement wall and of course Freddie helped me! He commented on how I'm a "doer" and wondered if I got those skills from my father. He didn't forsee that there was anything that I wouldn't accomplish if I set my mind to it. I did tell him that I had my limits, which included not removing gas lines, but removing the asbestos duct work for the furnace years ago - that I was OK with!
After the water lines were removed, I noticed a copper flexible line was dripping water. The line went from my utility storage room through the laundry room and to the furnace. The line was not connected. I decided it would be great to remove it, although the line was secured by copper pieces nailed into the wood boards. I managed to free the line into the laundry area. Sitting on the top of the freezer, with a ladder in front of me, I took the hammer overhead to pry off one of the connectors (I'm sure there is a real word for those metal dohickie pieces!). Unfortunately, I lost my grip on the hammer and it came flying at me.
Right to my face. The claw end of the hammer punctured under my left eye, missing my eye by an inch! Then the hammer bounced to my lip and then onto the floor (although I have a nice bruise on my knee that I'm thinking it may have hit my knee in transit to the ground too!). Immediately my eye began to swell as tears surfaced. Immediate PAIN. I headed upstairs to see the damage. Quickly, both under the eye and the lip began to swell. My gum was bleeding but fortunately my tooth wasn't loose.
Being a boxer or a Domestic Violence victim was not part of the Halloween weekend! I immediately texted AG to tell him that due to my hammer mishap I would be canceling our plans to the Winery. He suggested I wear sunglasses and we go to the movies, which I declined as well. Although I would have been right in par for my holiday injuries with AG that I incurred biking with him on Memorial Weekend as posted here.
Freddie noticed immediately the bruising that was occurring on my face. He had heard something fall but hadn't heard a peep out of me, so hadn't realized I had managed to injure myself. I told him, "Unless I am dying, I won't say much!" He suggested a regime of icing, heat and then pressure to the pooling blood with frozen metal to alleviate the bruising and said I would be good to go by the evening. Unfortunately, I didn't feel so "good to go" and I stayed home, lights off and watching movies.
I did however, manage to remove the copper water line and the basement looks super! Freddie even suggested that I can now put in a drop ceiling. I'll pass on that, for now.
Of course, I couldn't find myself doing nothing while Freddie worked diligently on beautifying my basement. I did attempt to stay out of his way by being upstairs, but he called me for assistance and then I decided I should be close by to help. We enjoyed several hours of conversation including his becoming a snobby foodie and his favorite dishes to cook as well as traveling. I worked on freeing up a couple of old galvanized water line pipes that were put through a cement wall and of course Freddie helped me! He commented on how I'm a "doer" and wondered if I got those skills from my father. He didn't forsee that there was anything that I wouldn't accomplish if I set my mind to it. I did tell him that I had my limits, which included not removing gas lines, but removing the asbestos duct work for the furnace years ago - that I was OK with!
After the water lines were removed, I noticed a copper flexible line was dripping water. The line went from my utility storage room through the laundry room and to the furnace. The line was not connected. I decided it would be great to remove it, although the line was secured by copper pieces nailed into the wood boards. I managed to free the line into the laundry area. Sitting on the top of the freezer, with a ladder in front of me, I took the hammer overhead to pry off one of the connectors (I'm sure there is a real word for those metal dohickie pieces!). Unfortunately, I lost my grip on the hammer and it came flying at me.
Right to my face. The claw end of the hammer punctured under my left eye, missing my eye by an inch! Then the hammer bounced to my lip and then onto the floor (although I have a nice bruise on my knee that I'm thinking it may have hit my knee in transit to the ground too!). Immediately my eye began to swell as tears surfaced. Immediate PAIN. I headed upstairs to see the damage. Quickly, both under the eye and the lip began to swell. My gum was bleeding but fortunately my tooth wasn't loose.
Being a boxer or a Domestic Violence victim was not part of the Halloween weekend! I immediately texted AG to tell him that due to my hammer mishap I would be canceling our plans to the Winery. He suggested I wear sunglasses and we go to the movies, which I declined as well. Although I would have been right in par for my holiday injuries with AG that I incurred biking with him on Memorial Weekend as posted here.
Freddie noticed immediately the bruising that was occurring on my face. He had heard something fall but hadn't heard a peep out of me, so hadn't realized I had managed to injure myself. I told him, "Unless I am dying, I won't say much!" He suggested a regime of icing, heat and then pressure to the pooling blood with frozen metal to alleviate the bruising and said I would be good to go by the evening. Unfortunately, I didn't feel so "good to go" and I stayed home, lights off and watching movies.
I did however, manage to remove the copper water line and the basement looks super! Freddie even suggested that I can now put in a drop ceiling. I'll pass on that, for now.
I have to imagine that if ever I were to have a mugshot...it would look like this:
Of course this was shortly after the injury. The good coloring and swelling came later. I only hope that next time, I win!
Monday, October 18, 2010
Green Be Gone: Greeting Grey
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| DK's Bedroom Before DK is the Ex-BF (of 2.5 years ago). He HATES painting. His bedroom is the only room in his house that I didn't paint for him since he's owned it. He and his dad painted it, although I admit I may have had some input on the color. The room ended up being Gumdrop or something similar and we thought it would go well with a new black and white comforter, black curtains, black and glass night stands and Ansel Adams framed pictures. It would have. Almost. IF they hadn't purchased it in a semi-gloss which made the color so obnoxiously hideous. That was...four years ago. Last summer while hanging out with DK on his jetski, I offered to help him repaint. Shortly there after he was involved in a relationship and I decided they could do it together! Unfortunately that relationship didn't work. Two weekends ago, some fifteen months later, I finally fulfilled my promise to help paint his bedroom. I'm not really sure why, and I may have thought several expletives while painting the room while he and T watched the UofM/MSU game! He did tape the room and cleared out the furniture! He also offered to get me things every twenty minutes or so! Seeing that DK is color blind, he didn't care what color to paint. I decided he needed something calming and neutral that wouldn't scare away any new girlfriend. I actually went with one shade lighter than what I had painted his living room, a light grey. I did ask for his help in rolling the second coat - which proved most disastrous as he really had no idea how to roll paint on a wall! I caught most of the running drips, but not all! But it looked so much better than before! |
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| DK's Bedroom After |
Mini Vacation: Weekend Recap
The weekend went fabulously well. I definitely think there is something to be said for spending time with someone that you don’t really know. From experience, it just affords little expectations and the ability to really enjoy yourself while learning about the other person.
I was suppose to have Friday off after teaching late Thursday night. I’m beginning to enjoy teaching and have to say that a smaller group leads to some excellent conversations! Friday morning I had to do a home visit, which forced me out of the house earlier than I had anticipated and I was able to get all my errands done. I managed to pack and even left out the kitchen sink!
I grabbed AG to take him to his parents as it was on the way to my friend’s house. AG decided that being punctual was of little importance and we grabbed a late lunch and I was about 25 minutes later getting to MS’ house, which he wasn’t exactly ready to go, so it worked out well.
We met my parents and TS at the Library Pub in Novi and had a great time! We were really early compared to our company, so we had lots of time to kill and enjoyed the conversation. We headed to the hotel, Marriott in Southfield after dinner. The hotel was very nice, no complaints from me! We watched the movie Get Him to the Greek, which he enjoyed and I fell asleep.
Saturday we met for the Motor City Brew Tour in Southfield, two LONG miles due to construction from the hotel. Four other people were late due to traffic and going to the wrong location. We sat in the parking lot drinking River Red – American Amber Ale, German Kolsh, Sven/Ollie American IPA and Rocktoberfest. We finally pulled out of the parking lot at 11:50a.m. (50 minutes late!) and headed to Liberty St. Brewing.
Liberty St. Brewing is a cute brewery in Plymouth. We had pizza and each had two half-pints. MS and I shared, so we had four samples: Steamy Windows, Punkin Pie Ale, Naked Sunday and Red Glare. The Punkin Pie Ale was by far my favorite!
Our second stop was CJ’s Brewing in Commerce Township. We had pitchers and tapped coolers to sample a wide variety of beers and continued to drink until it was time to move to our final stop. Beers included: Smoked, Smoked & Oak, Golden Ale, American IPA, a chocolate Stout, Cherry Ale and a couple more! The Golden Ale and Cherry Ale were my favorites!
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| Copper Canyon - Southfield, MI |
The weekend went fabulously well. I definitely think there is something to be said for spending time with someone that you don’t really know. From experience, it just affords little expectations and the ability to really enjoy yourself while learning about the other person.
I was suppose to have Friday off after teaching late Thursday night. I’m beginning to enjoy teaching and have to say that a smaller group leads to some excellent conversations! Friday morning I had to do a home visit, which forced me out of the house earlier than I had anticipated and I was able to get all my errands done. I managed to pack and even left out the kitchen sink!
I grabbed AG to take him to his parents as it was on the way to my friend’s house. AG decided that being punctual was of little importance and we grabbed a late lunch and I was about 25 minutes later getting to MS’ house, which he wasn’t exactly ready to go, so it worked out well.
We met my parents and TS at the Library Pub in Novi and had a great time! We were really early compared to our company, so we had lots of time to kill and enjoyed the conversation. We headed to the hotel, Marriott in Southfield after dinner. The hotel was very nice, no complaints from me! We watched the movie Get Him to the Greek, which he enjoyed and I fell asleep.
Saturday we met for the Motor City Brew Tour in Southfield, two LONG miles due to construction from the hotel. Four other people were late due to traffic and going to the wrong location. We sat in the parking lot drinking River Red – American Amber Ale, German Kolsh, Sven/Ollie American IPA and Rocktoberfest. We finally pulled out of the parking lot at 11:50a.m. (50 minutes late!) and headed to Liberty St. Brewing.
Liberty St. Brewing is a cute brewery in Plymouth. We had pizza and each had two half-pints. MS and I shared, so we had four samples: Steamy Windows, Punkin Pie Ale, Naked Sunday and Red Glare. The Punkin Pie Ale was by far my favorite!
Our second stop was CJ’s Brewing in Commerce Township. We had pitchers and tapped coolers to sample a wide variety of beers and continued to drink until it was time to move to our final stop. Beers included: Smoked, Smoked & Oak, Golden Ale, American IPA, a chocolate Stout, Cherry Ale and a couple more! The Golden Ale and Cherry Ale were my favorites!
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| "Beer Goggles" that were passed around for the photo op! |
We ended the tour back at Copper Canyon in Southfield. We had seven pitchers of beer to sample! Beers included: Alt Ale, Devils Peak (American IPA), Porter, Java Stout, Roctoberfest, Rye IPA, and Northwest Gold. I purchased a bottle of some Apple Turner over beer from 2007 that was super YUMMY! We were the last to leave the brewery, since we had no time constraints as we were unable to get dinner reservations at The Whitney.
We then headed to Detroit to check in to the St. Regis hotel. The hotel was fine and the price was definitely right. By the time we checked out, only one elevator worked and we had issues with the shower pull, but I would stay again! We crashed when we got back to the room and never did eat dinner! We woke at 9:00p.m. and headed to the haunted house, Realm of Darkness in Pontiac.
The haunted house was a cluster F@#$ of disorganization. We were extremely disappointed. I do not find it even remotely scary to be screamed in the face by people I can’t understand that act like you can’t see them initially!
It was after midnight when we made it back to the hotel. Sunday was spent at Motor City Casino where I contributed a few dollars! Then off to Troy so MS could get a new Red Wing hat. We stopped in Howell for a late lunch at my favorite, Tomato Bros. where MS has now fallen in love with the breadsticks! We finished out the trip at the Tanger Outlet Mall where he found great deals at VanHeusen for shirts and ties. The drive back to his house was especially long as I felt like I had driven all around the state (I did!). I then had an hour to spend with MS at his house before AG got back to his parents for me to take him home.
My weekend finished as I got home after 9p.m. to a chilly 60 degree house! A great weekend! Hope you had a fabulous weekend!
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Mini Vacation
A couple of weeks ago I was really struggling with missed trips and vacations. A summer gone by too quickly and not enough fun occurring. I had talked with a friend of mine and we were both discussing our desire to get out of town. I told him if he ever wanted to go somewhere to let me know as I'm always looking for travel companions that have the financial means and time to travel. I didn't think much of it. Afterall, he and I had gone out twice, I wasn't interested in anything further. We've maintained an online friendship since.
The next day after that conversation, he emailed me and asked where I wanted to go for a getaway. We kicked around Chicago but one night in a hotel he thought was "cool" was $367 plus tax and parking. No Thank You. We decided to head the other direction, Detroit. We found a bus brewery tour that hits three breweries that we bought the last two tickets. A co-worker had advised of a special on http://www.restaurant.com/ that had their gift certificates 90% off and I managed to pick up $350 in gift certificates for $14.75. We plan on going to dinner at The Whitney in Detroit with our $50 gift certificate that cost under $2.00. So we are excited about a nice dinner at a reasonable cost! Then we plan on hitting one of the haunted houses in the area where he offered that I can hold his hand if needed (after a local haunted house last weekend, I'm afraid I might cry or worse at a real haunted house!)! We then hope to hit one of the casinos as he hasn't been to a casino in about a decade! I picked up a 3.5 star hotel in Detroit for $50 on http://www.hotels.com/ and a Marriott for Friday night for $40 on http://www.priceline.com/ - I LOVE naming my own price! Within two days of our initial discussion, tour tickets and hotels were purchased.
I am really excited about our getaway! We have lots of fun things planned and will get in town early enough on the Friday to enjoy dinner and hit the town before the morning beer tour. Since we made plans, we have talked on the phone once. ONCE. We have emailed, texted or instant messaged daily. I'm sure I'm not the easiest person to be around or travel with and wonder what type of travel companion he is. I wonder how this trip will turn out. Then again, my winter Christmas trip to Colorado turned out extremely well, so cheers to mini vacations! To new friends, new adventures, great times and great memories!
The next day after that conversation, he emailed me and asked where I wanted to go for a getaway. We kicked around Chicago but one night in a hotel he thought was "cool" was $367 plus tax and parking. No Thank You. We decided to head the other direction, Detroit. We found a bus brewery tour that hits three breweries that we bought the last two tickets. A co-worker had advised of a special on http://www.restaurant.com/ that had their gift certificates 90% off and I managed to pick up $350 in gift certificates for $14.75. We plan on going to dinner at The Whitney in Detroit with our $50 gift certificate that cost under $2.00. So we are excited about a nice dinner at a reasonable cost! Then we plan on hitting one of the haunted houses in the area where he offered that I can hold his hand if needed (after a local haunted house last weekend, I'm afraid I might cry or worse at a real haunted house!)! We then hope to hit one of the casinos as he hasn't been to a casino in about a decade! I picked up a 3.5 star hotel in Detroit for $50 on http://www.hotels.com/ and a Marriott for Friday night for $40 on http://www.priceline.com/ - I LOVE naming my own price! Within two days of our initial discussion, tour tickets and hotels were purchased.
I am really excited about our getaway! We have lots of fun things planned and will get in town early enough on the Friday to enjoy dinner and hit the town before the morning beer tour. Since we made plans, we have talked on the phone once. ONCE. We have emailed, texted or instant messaged daily. I'm sure I'm not the easiest person to be around or travel with and wonder what type of travel companion he is. I wonder how this trip will turn out. Then again, my winter Christmas trip to Colorado turned out extremely well, so cheers to mini vacations! To new friends, new adventures, great times and great memories!
Time & Travel
Tonight I was asked the question, "If you had one hour to do anything, without any worries, what would you do?"
Fortunately for me, I do have lots of hours of free time to do anything I want. I'm not an extreme risk taker or daredevil, so there aren't truly any "worries" that I would have. I am fortunate enough to have a job that I have both annual and sick leave to utilize when I need time off as well as built in babysitter when my son is with his dad.
The question I would prefer, "If I could go anywhere and money and responsibilities were not a factor, where would I go?"
I would love to go to Australia! I know it won't be my first travel locale due to finances, but it is definitely where I want to visit!
On a side note, AG had called last night and I didn't have a chance to call him back. I called him today and he told me about an educational opportunity of five weeks in London next year for 6 credits (which he doesn't need) for $10,000 and asked if I thought it was a good deal. Granted, I've been to London once, for 1.5 days. I loved it and would like to go back, for a few more days or maybe even a week. But five weeks? I suggested that after AG graduates this winter, he should consider actually traveling Europe. Explore tours and other vacation destinations that could afford him more traveling and opportunities for less. Tonight he called me and told me, "I agree with you." Then he asked me if he found a great European vacation, would I be game?
Unfortunately I told him "no". I would LOVE to go back to Europe. I would love to travel around without the constraints of a guided travel group. However, financially, it just isn't possible. I have been to Europe. I continue to pay off my basement bathroom. He doesn't plan on going until after January, which is going into a year of domestic travel as my son will be with me for both Christmas holiday and Spring Break. I didn't even regret saying "no", no matter how much I love to travel.
If you had one hour to do anything without worries, what would you do? If you could go anywhere for any length of time without financial concerns, where would you go?
Fortunately for me, I do have lots of hours of free time to do anything I want. I'm not an extreme risk taker or daredevil, so there aren't truly any "worries" that I would have. I am fortunate enough to have a job that I have both annual and sick leave to utilize when I need time off as well as built in babysitter when my son is with his dad.
The question I would prefer, "If I could go anywhere and money and responsibilities were not a factor, where would I go?"
I would love to go to Australia! I know it won't be my first travel locale due to finances, but it is definitely where I want to visit!
On a side note, AG had called last night and I didn't have a chance to call him back. I called him today and he told me about an educational opportunity of five weeks in London next year for 6 credits (which he doesn't need) for $10,000 and asked if I thought it was a good deal. Granted, I've been to London once, for 1.5 days. I loved it and would like to go back, for a few more days or maybe even a week. But five weeks? I suggested that after AG graduates this winter, he should consider actually traveling Europe. Explore tours and other vacation destinations that could afford him more traveling and opportunities for less. Tonight he called me and told me, "I agree with you." Then he asked me if he found a great European vacation, would I be game?
Unfortunately I told him "no". I would LOVE to go back to Europe. I would love to travel around without the constraints of a guided travel group. However, financially, it just isn't possible. I have been to Europe. I continue to pay off my basement bathroom. He doesn't plan on going until after January, which is going into a year of domestic travel as my son will be with me for both Christmas holiday and Spring Break. I didn't even regret saying "no", no matter how much I love to travel.
If you had one hour to do anything without worries, what would you do? If you could go anywhere for any length of time without financial concerns, where would you go?
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Perspective
I'm finding that today, I am spending a lot of time putting things into perspective.
I was contemplating blogging about a recent dating debacle so to speak, but I'm not sure of the need. For one, I'm not sure that we were really "dating" and I didn't see any future with him, but maybe just someone fun to hang out with time and time again. We hadn't been intimate and my crystal ball was predicting a "friends with benefits" situation, which I just have no interest. Long story short, one of my longest and bestfriends TS had compared phone numbers of the guy with me to verify her inkling that he was one in the same. Sure enough, he was! He lives almost three hours away and managed to meet up and hook up with one of my bestfriends, one time. When I learned of this, I instant messaged and inquired and he wanted to know who she was, what she had told me and that it was before we had started seeing her. Funny thing, it was a week after we had met the second time that he met her!
Neither here nor there, but the image of what may have happened if one of the times I was hanging out with him and invited her to join us...is just, well I'm, well, speechless. Imagine how awkward that would have been, TS meet XX. They never talked again after that one time. Well, until the night I learned of their meeting where he texted her to see what she had told me. Funny thing, TS is on a different dating site than I was on when I met this guy. In all but one of her pictures, I am in them with her. They first started chatting online last winter. Do you think he was dumb enough to not put two and two together? Probably.
I'm glad that my dating debacle was just DUMB. I told him that "friendship runs far deeper than any man". His response, "whatever".
Today I received a call from the Ex-Bf (he seriously needs a new name since it's been 2.75 years, but who is counting?) that he almost got in a car accident, roommate lost his job, mutual friend of his and roommate committed suicide and he has court Monday for civil matters against his family. Then I receive a text a friend's shop was broken into and his work tools were stolen. The following text, a friend who thought he had potential to get a job was told, "really qualified but not at this time do we have a fit". My mom's old friend's wife committed suicide recently. One of my mom's dear friend's neighbor's 35 year old son passed away last night.
My thoughts and prayers are scattered today, praying for so many. It's about real life smacking you upside the head that really puts things into perspective.
I was contemplating blogging about a recent dating debacle so to speak, but I'm not sure of the need. For one, I'm not sure that we were really "dating" and I didn't see any future with him, but maybe just someone fun to hang out with time and time again. We hadn't been intimate and my crystal ball was predicting a "friends with benefits" situation, which I just have no interest. Long story short, one of my longest and bestfriends TS had compared phone numbers of the guy with me to verify her inkling that he was one in the same. Sure enough, he was! He lives almost three hours away and managed to meet up and hook up with one of my bestfriends, one time. When I learned of this, I instant messaged and inquired and he wanted to know who she was, what she had told me and that it was before we had started seeing her. Funny thing, it was a week after we had met the second time that he met her!
Neither here nor there, but the image of what may have happened if one of the times I was hanging out with him and invited her to join us...is just, well I'm, well, speechless. Imagine how awkward that would have been, TS meet XX. They never talked again after that one time. Well, until the night I learned of their meeting where he texted her to see what she had told me. Funny thing, TS is on a different dating site than I was on when I met this guy. In all but one of her pictures, I am in them with her. They first started chatting online last winter. Do you think he was dumb enough to not put two and two together? Probably.
I'm glad that my dating debacle was just DUMB. I told him that "friendship runs far deeper than any man". His response, "whatever".
Today I received a call from the Ex-Bf (he seriously needs a new name since it's been 2.75 years, but who is counting?) that he almost got in a car accident, roommate lost his job, mutual friend of his and roommate committed suicide and he has court Monday for civil matters against his family. Then I receive a text a friend's shop was broken into and his work tools were stolen. The following text, a friend who thought he had potential to get a job was told, "really qualified but not at this time do we have a fit". My mom's old friend's wife committed suicide recently. One of my mom's dear friend's neighbor's 35 year old son passed away last night.
My thoughts and prayers are scattered today, praying for so many. It's about real life smacking you upside the head that really puts things into perspective.
Saturday, September 25, 2010
Week in Review
I've thought many times over the past week of things I would or could blog about. I had no energy. I had no drive. I had no passion. Two days last week, other than driving my son to school or picking him up from practice, I didn't get out of my pajamas and my efforts of moving found me going from the bed to the couch and a scuffle to the kitchen. I can't remember the last time I was feeling so poorly and unmotivated.
A week ago Saturday I had to teach. A full day class to prospective foster and adoptive families. I had to cover three sessions, two which I had never taught before. Needless to say, I might have been stressing and fretting about it, a little.
Friday I was fortunate enough to have access to the training location to set up the room. I had initially thought I wouldn't be able to do so until Saturday morning! I purchased breakfast snacks, ordered lunch, had pop, chips and cookies. I had tried to review the material and the power points several times but I kept feeling inadequate. Granted I could talk for days, weeks and months about my job...but could I cover what I had to cover and keep the trainees awake and teach them? Would I be boring? My own personal concerns and threats of inadequacies could have spiraled me out of control. So after I set up the conference room, I met Debbie Downer's brother at my favorite brewery for some much needed cider.
Immediately I wondered if I had made a mistake. I thought since we had decided to stop "seeing each other" we could try to have fun. Sometimes, there are just people that aren't fun, regardless. But I forged ahead and made the best of it, even found myself laughing at myself often. In town, it was Mannequin Night where volunteers modeled as mannequin's in the store fronts. The streets were packed and each window had a different theme. We walked around town, getting separated often. I opted to call it a night, despite the urge to want to consume massive amounts of alcohol to forget about my teaching in the morning - responsibility, commonsense and the thought of trying to function with a hangover won out, as always. He had hoped to come back to my house to watch a movie, but after four hours with him, I had had enough.
I got home and decided that I was exhausted. I considered a bubble bath, but I was too tired to make one. I started having thoughts about falling asleep in the tub and drowning and not being found until Monday evening by my son! Clearly, my mind comes up with some bizarre thoughts! So I found my way to bed.
The training went well. Other than a mixup with where I was when bouncing between the book and the power point. The pizzas I ordered were wrong, which went well with the overall theme of my training: "Do not have Expectations" and I forgot to put out the $12 of fresh baked cookies! Overall, a success!
Saturday night I met with AG in Grand Rapids to walk around ArtPrize 2010, which didn't officially kick off until Wednesday. We found ourselves in a coffee shop playing 80's trivia afterward, which I completely SUCK. I did end the game on a good note with a right answer of Saved By The Bell! I then met my date back in town for a drink.
Sunday, I was officially kicked out of the Survivor Football pool. Before I was even able to put my plan in action. So much for Dallas beating Da Bears. Sigh I spent much of Sunday hanging out with my date and trying to understand how I pulled something in my knee - likely the night before as I often find I have trouble walking and tripped on an uneven sidewalk! Tried out a new little breakfast place in town and was pleasantly surprised.
Monday I found myself ill. Drained. Emotionally and physically exhausted. I did manage to go to work on Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. I was able to see JA for lunch for her birthday at a new place in town, which is always a pleasure!
I'm beginning to feel back like normal. I'm out of my funk which had me questioning my job and all of the after hours calls and accommodations I seem to make. I'm just fortunate to HAVE a job. I'm still wanting a vacation very much, but for now, I'm just enjoying the weekend at my parent's laying low, seeing the almost full grown puppy and spending time with my mom for her birthday!
So off to a walk to the cider mill to enjoy cider and donuts. Then, a great meal with the family. Even later, Second City comedy show tonight for some much needed laughs and good company! Sunday will be family time, football and the drive home which may include some more ArtPrize festivities and hopefully some photos to share!
Have a great weekend!
A week ago Saturday I had to teach. A full day class to prospective foster and adoptive families. I had to cover three sessions, two which I had never taught before. Needless to say, I might have been stressing and fretting about it, a little.
Friday I was fortunate enough to have access to the training location to set up the room. I had initially thought I wouldn't be able to do so until Saturday morning! I purchased breakfast snacks, ordered lunch, had pop, chips and cookies. I had tried to review the material and the power points several times but I kept feeling inadequate. Granted I could talk for days, weeks and months about my job...but could I cover what I had to cover and keep the trainees awake and teach them? Would I be boring? My own personal concerns and threats of inadequacies could have spiraled me out of control. So after I set up the conference room, I met Debbie Downer's brother at my favorite brewery for some much needed cider.
Immediately I wondered if I had made a mistake. I thought since we had decided to stop "seeing each other" we could try to have fun. Sometimes, there are just people that aren't fun, regardless. But I forged ahead and made the best of it, even found myself laughing at myself often. In town, it was Mannequin Night where volunteers modeled as mannequin's in the store fronts. The streets were packed and each window had a different theme. We walked around town, getting separated often. I opted to call it a night, despite the urge to want to consume massive amounts of alcohol to forget about my teaching in the morning - responsibility, commonsense and the thought of trying to function with a hangover won out, as always. He had hoped to come back to my house to watch a movie, but after four hours with him, I had had enough.
I got home and decided that I was exhausted. I considered a bubble bath, but I was too tired to make one. I started having thoughts about falling asleep in the tub and drowning and not being found until Monday evening by my son! Clearly, my mind comes up with some bizarre thoughts! So I found my way to bed.
The training went well. Other than a mixup with where I was when bouncing between the book and the power point. The pizzas I ordered were wrong, which went well with the overall theme of my training: "Do not have Expectations" and I forgot to put out the $12 of fresh baked cookies! Overall, a success!
Saturday night I met with AG in Grand Rapids to walk around ArtPrize 2010, which didn't officially kick off until Wednesday. We found ourselves in a coffee shop playing 80's trivia afterward, which I completely SUCK. I did end the game on a good note with a right answer of Saved By The Bell! I then met my date back in town for a drink.
Sunday, I was officially kicked out of the Survivor Football pool. Before I was even able to put my plan in action. So much for Dallas beating Da Bears. Sigh I spent much of Sunday hanging out with my date and trying to understand how I pulled something in my knee - likely the night before as I often find I have trouble walking and tripped on an uneven sidewalk! Tried out a new little breakfast place in town and was pleasantly surprised.
Monday I found myself ill. Drained. Emotionally and physically exhausted. I did manage to go to work on Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. I was able to see JA for lunch for her birthday at a new place in town, which is always a pleasure!
I'm beginning to feel back like normal. I'm out of my funk which had me questioning my job and all of the after hours calls and accommodations I seem to make. I'm just fortunate to HAVE a job. I'm still wanting a vacation very much, but for now, I'm just enjoying the weekend at my parent's laying low, seeing the almost full grown puppy and spending time with my mom for her birthday!
So off to a walk to the cider mill to enjoy cider and donuts. Then, a great meal with the family. Even later, Second City comedy show tonight for some much needed laughs and good company! Sunday will be family time, football and the drive home which may include some more ArtPrize festivities and hopefully some photos to share!
Have a great weekend!
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Break Up Via Text
Let me preface this post by saying that I have never broken up with anyone via text, yet. I'm not a big texter per se, although I do find myself hovering near my monthly allotment max of 1000.
I feel that breaking up with someone is difficult enough, but I'm woman enough to do so in person. If I invested enough time with someone to share who I am, then I should invest the time and respect toward that same person to tell them in person that the relationship is ending. Of course I have to actually be dating someone to break up, right? Or do we sometimes find ourselves breaking up or terminating relationships via text or instant messenger?
The last person I was dating or getting to know or seeing or spending time with or whatever you want to call it, I met with him in person, despite us both knowing that any chance of a dating relationship was over. We just lacked that spark. Throughout the time we spent together, I can't count how many times he said, "I want to maintain our friendship. I don't want to lose you as a friend, first and foremost." As well as any other 100 different variations and yet, he has not once initiated any contact with me since. Not once.
This morning I feel as if I received my first, Official. Break-up. Text.
The text read: I am in town and I have your house key. Is there a special place you want me to leave it?
My heart sunk a little. Immediately I paused trying to finish getting ready for work and felt a deep wave of sadness envelope me. Then I looked in the mirror and half smiled, half smirked at the irony of the text, or was it irony at all?
I wasn't being dumped. A relationship wasn't ending. A relationship was changing. One of my dearest friends JA is closing doors and opening others as she embarks on a new journey in a new town in a beautiful new home. She moved twenty minutes away. Not a world away. She just feels that as she unloads boxes and gets settled that there are loose things she needs to take care of. My house key apparently being one of them as she no longer needs to use my house as a refuge and place of sleep during endless open houses.
Regardless of the text not being a breakup text, it still felt in a way as one. I can't imagine ever receiving information via a text that a relationship has ended - nor can I imagine being so heartless to do that to someone else.
Have you ever been on the giving or receiving end of a break up text? How did you feel after?
I feel that breaking up with someone is difficult enough, but I'm woman enough to do so in person. If I invested enough time with someone to share who I am, then I should invest the time and respect toward that same person to tell them in person that the relationship is ending. Of course I have to actually be dating someone to break up, right? Or do we sometimes find ourselves breaking up or terminating relationships via text or instant messenger?
The last person I was dating or getting to know or seeing or spending time with or whatever you want to call it, I met with him in person, despite us both knowing that any chance of a dating relationship was over. We just lacked that spark. Throughout the time we spent together, I can't count how many times he said, "I want to maintain our friendship. I don't want to lose you as a friend, first and foremost." As well as any other 100 different variations and yet, he has not once initiated any contact with me since. Not once.
This morning I feel as if I received my first, Official. Break-up. Text.
The text read: I am in town and I have your house key. Is there a special place you want me to leave it?
My heart sunk a little. Immediately I paused trying to finish getting ready for work and felt a deep wave of sadness envelope me. Then I looked in the mirror and half smiled, half smirked at the irony of the text, or was it irony at all?
I wasn't being dumped. A relationship wasn't ending. A relationship was changing. One of my dearest friends JA is closing doors and opening others as she embarks on a new journey in a new town in a beautiful new home. She moved twenty minutes away. Not a world away. She just feels that as she unloads boxes and gets settled that there are loose things she needs to take care of. My house key apparently being one of them as she no longer needs to use my house as a refuge and place of sleep during endless open houses.
Regardless of the text not being a breakup text, it still felt in a way as one. I can't imagine ever receiving information via a text that a relationship has ended - nor can I imagine being so heartless to do that to someone else.
Have you ever been on the giving or receiving end of a break up text? How did you feel after?
Thursday, July 22, 2010
No News & Annoyances...
Over the past month or so, I've been reading a variety of blogs and stories which of course leave me to find nothing purposeful to actually post on this blog. Everything in my life seems trivial compared to life-threatening diagnoses, passing of children/parents/loved ones, upcoming marriages/divorces, births or adoption of new children, oil spills, bankruptcies, homelessness, sales/purchases of homes, suicides/homicides, shootings/stabbings, car accidents, child abuse, etc. that surround me.
I have absolutely nothing to complain about, although I wouldn't say that I'm a big complainer, more just a verbalizer. I have very little to even babble about, although I can do that well! But who really cares?
I've had frustrations with my son's baseball teams and schedule (last minute notices), teenage angst and behaviors, home improvement issues, dating issues, and just miscellaneous things. Nothing that has been life altering. No devastation (knock, knock). But maybe it's not about the loss that we want to hear or read, but the good things. Well of course it is - which is why I have boycotted the news for years! But, I don't have lots of new and exciting news to report either!
I guess I'll continue to just ramble when the thought moves me. As I type this, a downpour of weather exists outside as the thunder rumbles. A quick call home confirms that at this very moment, there are no streams or visible water cleansing the walls of my basement. I have yet to call the insurance company to raise my homeowners to include another bathroom and now habitable basement square footage, but I will, soon, very soon.
Every day I'm amazed and amused by little things. Every day there is usually something that irritates me equally as much, which passes quickly.
As of late I've been pondering my relationships - friendships and dating. On Saturday the Ex-Bf came to one of my son's tournament games. He hadn't paid attention to the schedule and he missed two previous games of the tournament. Unbeknownst to me, my son invited him to spend the day with him and the team at the hotel after the game. He denied. But when he hugged me goodbye he said to call him and see about hanging out the next day and he couldn't wait to do something again. (Yes it's been 2.5 years since I split from him. We are not FWB's!)
On Sunday morning before checking out of the hotel, I called him several times to see if he was going to take the jet ski out on the lake. My son called him four times leaving him messages to call him ASAP. My son was really hoping to go out on the lake and the tube. It had been years since he had.
No call. No nothing.
Until I received a text, ten minutes ago. Four days later. Four days!
He apologized for not returning my call but he had a date. He texted that it went well, but her profile is still up so he doesn't know.
I won't even begin to type what raced through my head when I read his text. I responded, "good luck". I wanted to respond with a lot. I didn't. You see, this isn't about me. This isn't about him and I. This was about my son. My son who adores this guy and the friendship they have. ADORES. And this man had the audacity to not return HIS calls.
I did ask my son if he had heard from the Ex-Bf and he said "NO". I told him that I had and that he had a date. My son's response, "Really? A date and he calls four days later?"
I know that my son is obviously like me. Communication issues or not as he turned a teenager months ago, he and I are still so very alike. And in sooo many ways, that SCARES ME.
I have absolutely nothing to complain about, although I wouldn't say that I'm a big complainer, more just a verbalizer. I have very little to even babble about, although I can do that well! But who really cares?
I've had frustrations with my son's baseball teams and schedule (last minute notices), teenage angst and behaviors, home improvement issues, dating issues, and just miscellaneous things. Nothing that has been life altering. No devastation (knock, knock). But maybe it's not about the loss that we want to hear or read, but the good things. Well of course it is - which is why I have boycotted the news for years! But, I don't have lots of new and exciting news to report either!
I guess I'll continue to just ramble when the thought moves me. As I type this, a downpour of weather exists outside as the thunder rumbles. A quick call home confirms that at this very moment, there are no streams or visible water cleansing the walls of my basement. I have yet to call the insurance company to raise my homeowners to include another bathroom and now habitable basement square footage, but I will, soon, very soon.
Every day I'm amazed and amused by little things. Every day there is usually something that irritates me equally as much, which passes quickly.
As of late I've been pondering my relationships - friendships and dating. On Saturday the Ex-Bf came to one of my son's tournament games. He hadn't paid attention to the schedule and he missed two previous games of the tournament. Unbeknownst to me, my son invited him to spend the day with him and the team at the hotel after the game. He denied. But when he hugged me goodbye he said to call him and see about hanging out the next day and he couldn't wait to do something again. (Yes it's been 2.5 years since I split from him. We are not FWB's!)
On Sunday morning before checking out of the hotel, I called him several times to see if he was going to take the jet ski out on the lake. My son called him four times leaving him messages to call him ASAP. My son was really hoping to go out on the lake and the tube. It had been years since he had.
No call. No nothing.
Until I received a text, ten minutes ago. Four days later. Four days!
He apologized for not returning my call but he had a date. He texted that it went well, but her profile is still up so he doesn't know.
I won't even begin to type what raced through my head when I read his text. I responded, "good luck". I wanted to respond with a lot. I didn't. You see, this isn't about me. This isn't about him and I. This was about my son. My son who adores this guy and the friendship they have. ADORES. And this man had the audacity to not return HIS calls.
I did ask my son if he had heard from the Ex-Bf and he said "NO". I told him that I had and that he had a date. My son's response, "Really? A date and he calls four days later?"
I know that my son is obviously like me. Communication issues or not as he turned a teenager months ago, he and I are still so very alike. And in sooo many ways, that SCARES ME.
Sunday, June 6, 2010
Someone Elses Game Night
Those that know me, know that I love game night! I have a closet that holds at least fifty games, although unlike my shower curtains, I haven't actually counted them.
It's been a while since I've had a game night at my house. I love having them, I really do. But, I worry whether or not anyone would actually come. Every game night I've had, I usually have a dozen people or so and it's a great time by everyone. I mean seriously, how can you forget the laughs and the memories? Lately, I've been asked by at least six people when I'm going to have another game night. Soon? Maybe soon. But 'tis the season of summer and beaches and graduations and vacations and and and...
Last Sunday night I was invited by a "friend" to join him for game night at a friend of his. It was a little awkward in a way since the invite was rather out of the blue. This guy and I had met about two years ago at a singles mingle party from the dating site. We had both been at a few and we are the infamous FB friends. We grabbed lunch once last fall. I will not date him. He decided that he will be my "wing man". When I found myself all bruised up from the bike accident I called him immediately to cancel.
Since I was bruising immediately I had no idea how bad it would look the following evening. The phone connection was bad and he ended up calling back and leaving me a message. He sang, "You're so vain. You're so vain. You probably think this...", you get the idea. That was funny! Maybe I was, but these were also people I didn't know and I was going to look like a recent domestic violence victim! But I conceded and said that I would go.
I had a good time. I'm glad that I went. Acknowledging what had happened made it easier that no one had to whisper or wonder. Their game closet, which the husband said was stocked, was a pathetic attempt at games, comparatively speaking of course. Two ran out to get Guesstures while the rest of us, six hung out. I actually own Guesstures and think I've only played it...once.
I had a few Wild Blue beers and two shots with my partner, the owner of the home. I have to say, there is nothing more fun than making a fool of yourself trying to act out things for the purposes of a point, or two! Just imagine me on all four trying to get him to say cow...yeah and the silent mooing wasn't working either. Then I had squirt - if cow teets wasn't working, trying to squirt them REALLY wasn't working! Glad that I had never met these people before and likely won't see them again!
My friend dropped me back off at my car where we met for dinner, On the Border. He went home. I decided that I was too tired to drive the half hour home. For some reason exhaustion hit me like a ton of bricks. I didn't feel intoxicated, but I knew I couldn't drive home right then either. I decided to rest in the parking lot for a bit. My friend texted me to text him when I made it home. A dozen texts later, which mind you were very entertaining and it wasn't even the alcohol factor, I fell asleep. I woke at some point to find him standing next to my car! I followed him to his house a mile away and he showed me his couch in the basement that I quickly fell asleep!
I spent the next few days struggling with dizziness, nausea, blurred vision...I believe I had a mild concussion from the bike fall. Had I known that at the time, I wouldn't have drank anything at all the next night. Almost a week later, I have no more symptoms. My bruise on my chin is minimal and the scabs on my wrists are smaller but still present.
All in all, it was a lot of fun having game night at someone else's house and I'm glad that I went...bruise, scabs and concussion included!
It's been a while since I've had a game night at my house. I love having them, I really do. But, I worry whether or not anyone would actually come. Every game night I've had, I usually have a dozen people or so and it's a great time by everyone. I mean seriously, how can you forget the laughs and the memories? Lately, I've been asked by at least six people when I'm going to have another game night. Soon? Maybe soon. But 'tis the season of summer and beaches and graduations and vacations and and and...
Last Sunday night I was invited by a "friend" to join him for game night at a friend of his. It was a little awkward in a way since the invite was rather out of the blue. This guy and I had met about two years ago at a singles mingle party from the dating site. We had both been at a few and we are the infamous FB friends. We grabbed lunch once last fall. I will not date him. He decided that he will be my "wing man". When I found myself all bruised up from the bike accident I called him immediately to cancel.
Since I was bruising immediately I had no idea how bad it would look the following evening. The phone connection was bad and he ended up calling back and leaving me a message. He sang, "You're so vain. You're so vain. You probably think this...", you get the idea. That was funny! Maybe I was, but these were also people I didn't know and I was going to look like a recent domestic violence victim! But I conceded and said that I would go.
I had a good time. I'm glad that I went. Acknowledging what had happened made it easier that no one had to whisper or wonder. Their game closet, which the husband said was stocked, was a pathetic attempt at games, comparatively speaking of course. Two ran out to get Guesstures while the rest of us, six hung out. I actually own Guesstures and think I've only played it...once.
I had a few Wild Blue beers and two shots with my partner, the owner of the home. I have to say, there is nothing more fun than making a fool of yourself trying to act out things for the purposes of a point, or two! Just imagine me on all four trying to get him to say cow...yeah and the silent mooing wasn't working either. Then I had squirt - if cow teets wasn't working, trying to squirt them REALLY wasn't working! Glad that I had never met these people before and likely won't see them again!
My friend dropped me back off at my car where we met for dinner, On the Border. He went home. I decided that I was too tired to drive the half hour home. For some reason exhaustion hit me like a ton of bricks. I didn't feel intoxicated, but I knew I couldn't drive home right then either. I decided to rest in the parking lot for a bit. My friend texted me to text him when I made it home. A dozen texts later, which mind you were very entertaining and it wasn't even the alcohol factor, I fell asleep. I woke at some point to find him standing next to my car! I followed him to his house a mile away and he showed me his couch in the basement that I quickly fell asleep!
I spent the next few days struggling with dizziness, nausea, blurred vision...I believe I had a mild concussion from the bike fall. Had I known that at the time, I wouldn't have drank anything at all the next night. Almost a week later, I have no more symptoms. My bruise on my chin is minimal and the scabs on my wrists are smaller but still present.
All in all, it was a lot of fun having game night at someone else's house and I'm glad that I went...bruise, scabs and concussion included!
Bike Bruise
I'm recovering. I'm healing.
Not from an addiction. Not from my blogging hiatus. Not from a relationship.
I am healing from my latest accident. By definition what is an accident?
The dictionary lists Accident - Noun:
1. a) An unexpected and undesirable event, especially one resulting in damage or harm: car accidents on icy roads.
b) An unforeseen incident: A series of happy accidents led to his promotion.
c) An instance of involuntary urination or defecation in one's clothing.
2. Lack of intention; chance: ran into an old friend by accident.
3. Logic A circumstance or attribute that is not essential to the nature of something.
Fortunately for me, my accident was not c).
Memorial Weekend, I put my bike rack on my bike and headed twenty-five miles or so to my good friend, AG's house to ride bikes. He had recently purchased a bike and we decided we would hit the trails. Mind you, I love AG and I try hard not to view him as my 6'5" baby bird that I'm nursing into 35 year old adulthood, but seriously this man has been sheltered. I realize it is not my job or duty to feel the motherly instinct of protector and teacher, but some roles are inherent. Also, AG doesn't drive due to a medical condition. Having said that...this is how a week later, I find myself still healing.
I threw AG's bike in my bike rack and we were off to find the "beginning of the trail" since AG didn't like where I wanted to start. So we went to a nearby park and were finally on our way. About a half mile into the ride on the bike path, AG inquired about "biker etiquette". I offered some suggestions and input about other bikers, walkers, etc. (apparently NOT enough). Shortly after that, we merged from the bike route into the road where we continued.
AG was slightly in front of me and to my right, so I was on his inside. I mentioned about not knowing that the park had a disc golf course (one of my summer faves!) at which point he turned his head back to the left to look at me while turning his bike to the left and then rode to the left. I even recall that he may have put on his brakes!
Seeing that I was not even a half bike distance behind him, I slammed on my brakes, turned my bike to the right away from him and smashed into the center of his back tire! (Yes, his NEW back tire) I couldn't brace for the impact and in slow motion (in my mind of course), I went down. I tried to brace my fall with my hands. I don't think I was successful.
I was able to yell his name in the instant that I found myself pummelling to the pavement. I managed to smash my chin directly into the concrete, hit my head - fortunately I wear a helmet - cut up my left wrist and got road rash on the top of my right knee and in the palms of both hands. The last time I recall falling off my bike, I was eight. I blogged about it here. That was a long time ago, and a lot of miles ago!
AG felt bad, I was humiliated. I laid on the ground and a couple walkers offered to call for medical assistance. Did I mention that I'm a Scorpio? So I got up, dusted myself all, irritation and all and got back on my bike. I checked my tires, they were fine. Of course I didn't realize my chain was off and my handle bars were inverted! AG righted me and then tried to grab my wrist to check the damage.
"Don't touch me!" I growled. Didn't he realize he had done enough? He offered that we stop the ride? Seriously, I just drove half an hour to ride...one mile? No way. No way in hell.
So throbbing and in pain, we rode ten miles. We stopped in a town so that I could use the outside faucet and clean out the dirt, grime and wash off the blood. Then we went and grabbed lunch. My chin already had a large goose egg and was beginning to bruise. We then rode the ten miles back. Other than the "accident" that AG swears he was just heading to the continuation of the bike path...sigh...the ride was decent.
Of course it wasn't until the next evening that I realized, I was also suffering from a slight concussion.
At this point, I'm not signing up to ride bikes with AG again. Afterall, a week of mockery of my bruised chin was enough for a while!
Not from an addiction. Not from my blogging hiatus. Not from a relationship.
I am healing from my latest accident. By definition what is an accident?
The dictionary lists Accident - Noun:
1. a) An unexpected and undesirable event, especially one resulting in damage or harm: car accidents on icy roads.
b) An unforeseen incident: A series of happy accidents led to his promotion.
c) An instance of involuntary urination or defecation in one's clothing.
2. Lack of intention; chance: ran into an old friend by accident.
3. Logic A circumstance or attribute that is not essential to the nature of something.
Fortunately for me, my accident was not c).
Memorial Weekend, I put my bike rack on my bike and headed twenty-five miles or so to my good friend, AG's house to ride bikes. He had recently purchased a bike and we decided we would hit the trails. Mind you, I love AG and I try hard not to view him as my 6'5" baby bird that I'm nursing into 35 year old adulthood, but seriously this man has been sheltered. I realize it is not my job or duty to feel the motherly instinct of protector and teacher, but some roles are inherent. Also, AG doesn't drive due to a medical condition. Having said that...this is how a week later, I find myself still healing.
I threw AG's bike in my bike rack and we were off to find the "beginning of the trail" since AG didn't like where I wanted to start. So we went to a nearby park and were finally on our way. About a half mile into the ride on the bike path, AG inquired about "biker etiquette". I offered some suggestions and input about other bikers, walkers, etc. (apparently NOT enough). Shortly after that, we merged from the bike route into the road where we continued.
AG was slightly in front of me and to my right, so I was on his inside. I mentioned about not knowing that the park had a disc golf course (one of my summer faves!) at which point he turned his head back to the left to look at me while turning his bike to the left and then rode to the left. I even recall that he may have put on his brakes!
Seeing that I was not even a half bike distance behind him, I slammed on my brakes, turned my bike to the right away from him and smashed into the center of his back tire! (Yes, his NEW back tire) I couldn't brace for the impact and in slow motion (in my mind of course), I went down. I tried to brace my fall with my hands. I don't think I was successful.
I was able to yell his name in the instant that I found myself pummelling to the pavement. I managed to smash my chin directly into the concrete, hit my head - fortunately I wear a helmet - cut up my left wrist and got road rash on the top of my right knee and in the palms of both hands. The last time I recall falling off my bike, I was eight. I blogged about it here. That was a long time ago, and a lot of miles ago!
AG felt bad, I was humiliated. I laid on the ground and a couple walkers offered to call for medical assistance. Did I mention that I'm a Scorpio? So I got up, dusted myself all, irritation and all and got back on my bike. I checked my tires, they were fine. Of course I didn't realize my chain was off and my handle bars were inverted! AG righted me and then tried to grab my wrist to check the damage.
"Don't touch me!" I growled. Didn't he realize he had done enough? He offered that we stop the ride? Seriously, I just drove half an hour to ride...one mile? No way. No way in hell.
So throbbing and in pain, we rode ten miles. We stopped in a town so that I could use the outside faucet and clean out the dirt, grime and wash off the blood. Then we went and grabbed lunch. My chin already had a large goose egg and was beginning to bruise. We then rode the ten miles back. Other than the "accident" that AG swears he was just heading to the continuation of the bike path...sigh...the ride was decent.
Of course it wasn't until the next evening that I realized, I was also suffering from a slight concussion.
At this point, I'm not signing up to ride bikes with AG again. Afterall, a week of mockery of my bruised chin was enough for a while!
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Reality Check: Privacy vs. Trust
I think it's common for most bloggers and readers to feel a certain relationship and attachment to other bloggers, even without ever meeting them. My blog is mainly anonymous, although some close to me are aware and even read; however, many people that know me don't read my blog. Does that mean they know me less than blog readers?
Over the last few weeks, I've been going though a variety of things. One of them was my new found interest in becoming a foster parent. This opens a whole can of worms based on my current employer, my position and "Conflict of Interest" clauses. While it isn't impossible for me to become licensed, the requirements specifically for me to avoid conflict of interest would not be in my personal best interest (i.e. distance, location, time...). I discarded the idea; however, I felt discriminated against based on my current job title/position.
I also began dating again. I've met one person from a free online weekend. I have met no one from actually subscribing to eHarmony, which personally, I can't stand the website, the layout or anything about the site. That obviously comes from someone who has dabbled with online dating for the past decade. Sigh...that's sad. Anyway...I went out with this person again last night, being the third time.
I'm not going to go into the details and obviously dating is a case by case basis. And maybe it's about following that "gut instinct". It isn't that I don't trust him, but my past few dating experiences, if you call them that, may have left a bad taste in my mouth. There are also some read flags I have with this guy in the sense of time since his divorce, age of kids, amount of kids and most of all the annoying way he sticks out his tongue when he laughs. Yes, I may be THAT shallow. He has asked me on numerous times where I live, I have not divulged. Not for any specific reason per se, I just didn't see it necessary. I have nothing to hide. I don't have a boyfriend or a spouse that I would need to hide things in my house if the new guy came over. I just also don't see any reason to share at this point. Last night, I went to his house for the first time. As the night was drawing toward an end, he asked if he could ask me a question. He asked, "Do you want to meet my kids?" Sigh...
Most of the time, I really do love kids, if I allow myself. I told him it was way too soon. Obviously with our parenting schedules, if I don't meet them, it will be almost two weeks until we see each other again (after Friday). He doesn't want to wait that long. I don't want to rush with the kid thing just because of time constraints and schedules. He also went on again about how I wasn't willing to tell him where I live. I invited him to the town I live on Friday and agreed to meet him at my work - which he knows where that is, general vicinity at least. He found that odd. I found it convenient as I will be working until he gets into town and our plans are on that side of town. But, is there more reason that that?
The other night after dinner with my son, I realized I didn't have my keys. I had locked them in the car, still sitting in the ignition. What to do? Who to call? Who do I call? Can I have someone go to my house, get my spare key into my house and then grab my spare car keys? Who do I trust? Who can I ask? Who would actually do this? I felt lost. Lost that I'm not trusting enough. Lost that I don't want to inconvenience anyone with my misfortune. Could I call a tow-truck? My insurance number was...in the car! I did call a co-worker/friend who came to my rescue. The first thing I did when I got home? I changed the location of my spare key - after 8 years, I moved it.
Why did I move it? Is it that I didn't trust my rescuer? I can admit that I feared that he may tell the story to others in my office and then my spare key would become office knowledge. It's amazing what people disclose to co-workers and friends, especially after a night on the town. I didn't want to take that risk.
Today I decided to pursue the whole foster care issue again, this time directly with my Program Manager. He said he would "think about it". He did ask what my relationship was with the agency I was considering licensure and I explained. He also asked if they would license me based on my intentions of short-term and respite care. I then called the agency licenser without waiting for a response.
They will license me. Or I should preface to say, they will work with me. They will pursue licensing me and would be happy to do so - assuming my home meets licensing rules...which I only see the lack of egress in my basement being an issue - for my son and I, not to actually be licensed. I scheduled the Orientation without actually getting confirmation from the Program Manager that I could proceed; however, if I'm told I can't, than I won't. Done. As part of the license, I need five unrelated references. Five.
Moments before I decided to type this, I mentally made a list and then wrote them out of who I could ask to be references. I struggled. And then, I wondered how sad is it that I can't come up with five people that would be a personal reference for me? Five people that I think know me well enough to be a reference? As I type this, I begin to think of more. But even this morning as I walked into work, I thought of some of my closest relationships and one specifically that after 1.5 years has never even been to my house. Am I that private? Do I keep my friends at that much of a distance? Do I fear intimacy in all relationships or any relationship? Do I share more on a blog than I do with my closest friends?
Or does it really boil down to the fact that I'm an A personality and a perfectionist. That I don't want to bother those closest to me, or that I fear that they don't know me on every level that it would seem a reference should. Work references, no problem. Personal references, different story. I want the references to be positive. But I have different friends - childhood friends, work friends, personal friends, friends through my child...do I have five that can vouch for me as a reference that know me personally as a person, a friend, a mother, a caretaker, as well as a character reference in a professional capacity and have been to my house? Is there anyone other than spouses or significant others, best friends and family (if even them) that knows anyone that intimately? I think of how many people I know that intimately.
So here I sit struggling if maybe, I'm not a good friend. Or maybe I really have trust issues. Is it my life, my job or just me that has molded me into who I am? All of the above.
I'm not afraid to give the guy that I've been out with three times my address. Sometimes it's easier to disclose to those that don't know us or will never meet us. Or to those that we know that relationships will only be so deep, just below the surface. Maybe it's the fear of disappointing others with who I am or what I have to offer. Or maybe it really is about gut instinct or in the guy that I'm dating, I don't want to be taken for granted. I've worked hard for who I am and where I'm at and the thought that someone could or would want something from me without really wanting all of me...that's what fear keeps me grounded and private.
Over the last few weeks, I've been going though a variety of things. One of them was my new found interest in becoming a foster parent. This opens a whole can of worms based on my current employer, my position and "Conflict of Interest" clauses. While it isn't impossible for me to become licensed, the requirements specifically for me to avoid conflict of interest would not be in my personal best interest (i.e. distance, location, time...). I discarded the idea; however, I felt discriminated against based on my current job title/position.
I also began dating again. I've met one person from a free online weekend. I have met no one from actually subscribing to eHarmony, which personally, I can't stand the website, the layout or anything about the site. That obviously comes from someone who has dabbled with online dating for the past decade. Sigh...that's sad. Anyway...I went out with this person again last night, being the third time.
I'm not going to go into the details and obviously dating is a case by case basis. And maybe it's about following that "gut instinct". It isn't that I don't trust him, but my past few dating experiences, if you call them that, may have left a bad taste in my mouth. There are also some read flags I have with this guy in the sense of time since his divorce, age of kids, amount of kids and most of all the annoying way he sticks out his tongue when he laughs. Yes, I may be THAT shallow. He has asked me on numerous times where I live, I have not divulged. Not for any specific reason per se, I just didn't see it necessary. I have nothing to hide. I don't have a boyfriend or a spouse that I would need to hide things in my house if the new guy came over. I just also don't see any reason to share at this point. Last night, I went to his house for the first time. As the night was drawing toward an end, he asked if he could ask me a question. He asked, "Do you want to meet my kids?" Sigh...
Most of the time, I really do love kids, if I allow myself. I told him it was way too soon. Obviously with our parenting schedules, if I don't meet them, it will be almost two weeks until we see each other again (after Friday). He doesn't want to wait that long. I don't want to rush with the kid thing just because of time constraints and schedules. He also went on again about how I wasn't willing to tell him where I live. I invited him to the town I live on Friday and agreed to meet him at my work - which he knows where that is, general vicinity at least. He found that odd. I found it convenient as I will be working until he gets into town and our plans are on that side of town. But, is there more reason that that?
The other night after dinner with my son, I realized I didn't have my keys. I had locked them in the car, still sitting in the ignition. What to do? Who to call? Who do I call? Can I have someone go to my house, get my spare key into my house and then grab my spare car keys? Who do I trust? Who can I ask? Who would actually do this? I felt lost. Lost that I'm not trusting enough. Lost that I don't want to inconvenience anyone with my misfortune. Could I call a tow-truck? My insurance number was...in the car! I did call a co-worker/friend who came to my rescue. The first thing I did when I got home? I changed the location of my spare key - after 8 years, I moved it.
Why did I move it? Is it that I didn't trust my rescuer? I can admit that I feared that he may tell the story to others in my office and then my spare key would become office knowledge. It's amazing what people disclose to co-workers and friends, especially after a night on the town. I didn't want to take that risk.
Today I decided to pursue the whole foster care issue again, this time directly with my Program Manager. He said he would "think about it". He did ask what my relationship was with the agency I was considering licensure and I explained. He also asked if they would license me based on my intentions of short-term and respite care. I then called the agency licenser without waiting for a response.
They will license me. Or I should preface to say, they will work with me. They will pursue licensing me and would be happy to do so - assuming my home meets licensing rules...which I only see the lack of egress in my basement being an issue - for my son and I, not to actually be licensed. I scheduled the Orientation without actually getting confirmation from the Program Manager that I could proceed; however, if I'm told I can't, than I won't. Done. As part of the license, I need five unrelated references. Five.
Moments before I decided to type this, I mentally made a list and then wrote them out of who I could ask to be references. I struggled. And then, I wondered how sad is it that I can't come up with five people that would be a personal reference for me? Five people that I think know me well enough to be a reference? As I type this, I begin to think of more. But even this morning as I walked into work, I thought of some of my closest relationships and one specifically that after 1.5 years has never even been to my house. Am I that private? Do I keep my friends at that much of a distance? Do I fear intimacy in all relationships or any relationship? Do I share more on a blog than I do with my closest friends?
Or does it really boil down to the fact that I'm an A personality and a perfectionist. That I don't want to bother those closest to me, or that I fear that they don't know me on every level that it would seem a reference should. Work references, no problem. Personal references, different story. I want the references to be positive. But I have different friends - childhood friends, work friends, personal friends, friends through my child...do I have five that can vouch for me as a reference that know me personally as a person, a friend, a mother, a caretaker, as well as a character reference in a professional capacity and have been to my house? Is there anyone other than spouses or significant others, best friends and family (if even them) that knows anyone that intimately? I think of how many people I know that intimately.
So here I sit struggling if maybe, I'm not a good friend. Or maybe I really have trust issues. Is it my life, my job or just me that has molded me into who I am? All of the above.
I'm not afraid to give the guy that I've been out with three times my address. Sometimes it's easier to disclose to those that don't know us or will never meet us. Or to those that we know that relationships will only be so deep, just below the surface. Maybe it's the fear of disappointing others with who I am or what I have to offer. Or maybe it really is about gut instinct or in the guy that I'm dating, I don't want to be taken for granted. I've worked hard for who I am and where I'm at and the thought that someone could or would want something from me without really wanting all of me...that's what fear keeps me grounded and private.
Friday, April 23, 2010
Bed & Breakfast/Weekend Recap
Last Friday I was able to utilize my Bed & Breakfast purchase, sans my son! I did miss his scrimmage on Saturday, for my own sanity of course! Seeing that I had the day off, I was able to take a nap after taking my son to school and then got busy around the house with putting away laundry, straightening up and then packing for a weekend of whatever!
I had a lunch date on Friday. This was my first date since early November - although some may say that spending time with male friends is dating, for me it isn't. I had been talking to this guy for a week on the phone (which likely added some additional stress for not being able to schedule plans) and with my son's visitation schedule back to normal, I could finally make plans to meet. Lunch went fine. He's a nice guy, despite some quirky traits - but we all have them, right?
After the almost four hour lunch date, I headed to find the B&B while making plans to meet another friend for drinks before my evening plans with my girlfriend. When I arrived at the B&B I was on the phone, so I waited on the porch until I finished. When I tried the front door...it was locked. Moments later an SUV came flying into the drive and a minute later the front door opened.
I was greeted by a slightly winded, slightly disheveled middle aged short-red haired woman. I introduced myself and gave her my certificate. I was also greeted by two large Dalmatians, that I reached down to pet. She did not introduce herself or the excited dogs. She went on to say that twice in two weeks she had to rescue a flat tire and came home to find people waiting on her. She proceeded to walk up the stairs with me in tow - without luggage since I was initially scoping out the place! The woman offered me a choice between two bedrooms - a smaller, quaint room, or a larger room with a loveseat and chair. I had no preference and she gave me the larger room. She seemed more than appalled that it was just me! She then asked what time I wanted breakfast. Being more than flexible I asked what worked for her. Apparently that is the wrong thing to ask! I suggested 9 or 9:30 seeing that I had to check out at 10. She then said, "So which one?". As she walked out of the room I asked about the bathroom since I hadn't but peeked into the bedroom. I hadn't realized there was a bathroom, which was shared between the two bedrooms. I then asked her if the doors were locked or what time I needed to be in. I was trying to be nice. She said that she locks the doors after all guests are in for the night. I mentioned that if it were really late, I wouldn't return. She asked that I call her if that was the case.
General impressions...A) She dislikes single guests, B) She dislikes her job, C) She doesn't like people that use their pre-paid night stays, D) She didn't like that I was left waiting, E) She doesn't like to introduce herself or show off her home, F) She disliked ME, G) All of the Above & 100 more...G, G, G, G, G, G...
My friend came to pick me up, since we were less than .5 mile from downtown and I figured I could either get a cab or my girlfriend could bring me back. I decided to leave my things in the room afterall and return. When my friend and I left the B&B the woman did say, "Wow, they are multiplying (since apparently she didn't realize my friend had walked in)" and I told her I would be back. She advised me that she would be going out to dinner and locking the residence - while my first instinct was that she thought I would ransack her home with my "friends" - I told her I wouldn't be returning until late after a night out.
My friend and I hit a local bar where I had never been. When grabbed some happy hour specials - which made me VERY HAPPY - and appetizers. JN then called and picked up comedy tickets for the three of us, since I invited my friend along as well. We then met elsewhere for dinner - which were more appetizers and drinks! We had tickets for the comedy club at 10p.m. I may have actually fallen asleep during the show - since I had consumed alcohol, the comics weren't funny and I was emotionally spent from my breakdown the days before and decompressing from everything! The show ended and we bounced around a few bars, before I was dropped back off at the B&B around 1a.m. I proceeded to fall asleep in the bucket chair - completely uncomfortable - but too tired to get ready for bed, or even crash on the bed. At 4a.m. I proceeded to get up and get ready for bed and couldn't find a non-feather pillow. I slept on a few towels. Good times!
At 7a.m. I was up and read my book for a while. Just before 9:30 I went downstairs showered (which the water was rusty for a few solid minutes - and the shampoo was in a dispenser on the shower wall!) and in my workout clothes (although my shoes were in my trunk!). Breakfast was OK. She finally sat down with me and we had a decent discussion. I learned her name from the other two guests that left breakfast shortly after I arrived. She gave me a comment card before my breakfast arrived. As I was walking out the door to leave, she commented that non-feather pillows were located in the closet! I mentioned I had hoped even for a throw pillow on the loveseat or chair which she responded, "What do you do with throw pillows other than throw them on the floor?" Well, I use them to sleep on when there are feather pillows!
I then went over to my friend AG's house and we went for a 6.5 mile walk around town. Got back and cleaned up and headed out to meet more friends for brunch. AG and I then did some shopping around town before I dropped him off. I then had an hour or so to kill before my dinner "date" where a friend had invited me over for dinner - where he was cooking! I was responsible for bringing wine or beverages. After the night before consumption, I wasn't really up for drinking, but grabbed a six-pack of Wild Blue, Blueberry beer when a bottle of wine was beckoning me to purchase. His Fault. How could I pass up that?
Dinner turned out very good. We had a great evening despite His Fault tasting not so fabulous! We then tried to watch two of my movies which were miserable and ended up at Blockbuster renting a third, which was equally as bad.
Sunday I picked up my friend and we headed to church. Three times I've gone to service in the past month. Wow, what is that all about? I have to admit that the third time must be a charm, because service was actually tolerable. I still find it amazing that in the recesses of our mind we store a lot of information, like every saying and response for a catholic service when attendance is minimal at best! We grabbed brunch after service. He offered I could read the rest of my book or nap while he did homework and we could walk later. I opted to head home where I spent the rest of my Sunday being extremely lazy!
It was a busy weekend, although it be relaxing and full of great friends! The B&B lady even asked if it was my "birthday", since who goes to a B&B, out with friends and has another offer to cook dinner if it isn't your birthday? Me I guess. I hope you too!
I had a lunch date on Friday. This was my first date since early November - although some may say that spending time with male friends is dating, for me it isn't. I had been talking to this guy for a week on the phone (which likely added some additional stress for not being able to schedule plans) and with my son's visitation schedule back to normal, I could finally make plans to meet. Lunch went fine. He's a nice guy, despite some quirky traits - but we all have them, right?
After the almost four hour lunch date, I headed to find the B&B while making plans to meet another friend for drinks before my evening plans with my girlfriend. When I arrived at the B&B I was on the phone, so I waited on the porch until I finished. When I tried the front door...it was locked. Moments later an SUV came flying into the drive and a minute later the front door opened.
I was greeted by a slightly winded, slightly disheveled middle aged short-red haired woman. I introduced myself and gave her my certificate. I was also greeted by two large Dalmatians, that I reached down to pet. She did not introduce herself or the excited dogs. She went on to say that twice in two weeks she had to rescue a flat tire and came home to find people waiting on her. She proceeded to walk up the stairs with me in tow - without luggage since I was initially scoping out the place! The woman offered me a choice between two bedrooms - a smaller, quaint room, or a larger room with a loveseat and chair. I had no preference and she gave me the larger room. She seemed more than appalled that it was just me! She then asked what time I wanted breakfast. Being more than flexible I asked what worked for her. Apparently that is the wrong thing to ask! I suggested 9 or 9:30 seeing that I had to check out at 10. She then said, "So which one?". As she walked out of the room I asked about the bathroom since I hadn't but peeked into the bedroom. I hadn't realized there was a bathroom, which was shared between the two bedrooms. I then asked her if the doors were locked or what time I needed to be in. I was trying to be nice. She said that she locks the doors after all guests are in for the night. I mentioned that if it were really late, I wouldn't return. She asked that I call her if that was the case.
General impressions...A) She dislikes single guests, B) She dislikes her job, C) She doesn't like people that use their pre-paid night stays, D) She didn't like that I was left waiting, E) She doesn't like to introduce herself or show off her home, F) She disliked ME, G) All of the Above & 100 more...G, G, G, G, G, G...
My friend came to pick me up, since we were less than .5 mile from downtown and I figured I could either get a cab or my girlfriend could bring me back. I decided to leave my things in the room afterall and return. When my friend and I left the B&B the woman did say, "Wow, they are multiplying (since apparently she didn't realize my friend had walked in)" and I told her I would be back. She advised me that she would be going out to dinner and locking the residence - while my first instinct was that she thought I would ransack her home with my "friends" - I told her I wouldn't be returning until late after a night out.
My friend and I hit a local bar where I had never been. When grabbed some happy hour specials - which made me VERY HAPPY - and appetizers. JN then called and picked up comedy tickets for the three of us, since I invited my friend along as well. We then met elsewhere for dinner - which were more appetizers and drinks! We had tickets for the comedy club at 10p.m. I may have actually fallen asleep during the show - since I had consumed alcohol, the comics weren't funny and I was emotionally spent from my breakdown the days before and decompressing from everything! The show ended and we bounced around a few bars, before I was dropped back off at the B&B around 1a.m. I proceeded to fall asleep in the bucket chair - completely uncomfortable - but too tired to get ready for bed, or even crash on the bed. At 4a.m. I proceeded to get up and get ready for bed and couldn't find a non-feather pillow. I slept on a few towels. Good times!
At 7a.m. I was up and read my book for a while. Just before 9:30 I went downstairs showered (which the water was rusty for a few solid minutes - and the shampoo was in a dispenser on the shower wall!) and in my workout clothes (although my shoes were in my trunk!). Breakfast was OK. She finally sat down with me and we had a decent discussion. I learned her name from the other two guests that left breakfast shortly after I arrived. She gave me a comment card before my breakfast arrived. As I was walking out the door to leave, she commented that non-feather pillows were located in the closet! I mentioned I had hoped even for a throw pillow on the loveseat or chair which she responded, "What do you do with throw pillows other than throw them on the floor?" Well, I use them to sleep on when there are feather pillows!
I then went over to my friend AG's house and we went for a 6.5 mile walk around town. Got back and cleaned up and headed out to meet more friends for brunch. AG and I then did some shopping around town before I dropped him off. I then had an hour or so to kill before my dinner "date" where a friend had invited me over for dinner - where he was cooking! I was responsible for bringing wine or beverages. After the night before consumption, I wasn't really up for drinking, but grabbed a six-pack of Wild Blue, Blueberry beer when a bottle of wine was beckoning me to purchase. His Fault. How could I pass up that?
Dinner turned out very good. We had a great evening despite His Fault tasting not so fabulous! We then tried to watch two of my movies which were miserable and ended up at Blockbuster renting a third, which was equally as bad.
Sunday I picked up my friend and we headed to church. Three times I've gone to service in the past month. Wow, what is that all about? I have to admit that the third time must be a charm, because service was actually tolerable. I still find it amazing that in the recesses of our mind we store a lot of information, like every saying and response for a catholic service when attendance is minimal at best! We grabbed brunch after service. He offered I could read the rest of my book or nap while he did homework and we could walk later. I opted to head home where I spent the rest of my Sunday being extremely lazy!
It was a busy weekend, although it be relaxing and full of great friends! The B&B lady even asked if it was my "birthday", since who goes to a B&B, out with friends and has another offer to cook dinner if it isn't your birthday? Me I guess. I hope you too!
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Bed & Breakfast
Last year, I bid on one night at a Bed & Breakfast through the local auction. I wasn't the highest bidder. I was OK with that. At the time, I was involved in a relationship and thought a cheap night, even 30 miles away, at a Bed & Breakfast could be a fun and needed getaway. Despite not being the highest bidder, the auction had six certificates and gave them to the six highest bidders and I was one of them.
Of course, that relationship ended shortly thereafter. So now a year has almost gone by and the night expires at the end of the month. I figured so as not to lose out on something I've already purchased, I would book the room. I figure nothing wrong with taking advantage of something that is already mine and hitting the town and not having to worry about driving home.
Here's what some of my friends, mainly male, find so funny...I'm planning on staying at the B&B solo. While several of my male friends have offered to provide me company and companionship...since my not so distant naivete about my "friend/ex" I'm not even going to fathom that men and women can be friends that can sleep in the same bed and put myself in that situation (although I've honestly done this many times in the past without physical intimacy - but one rotten egg in the bunch has spoiled that - for now at least).
I would love to invite one of my girlfriends to stay with me. Sure I've shared many a hotel room and even beds with girlfriends and it's never been a problem; however, for some reason it doesn't seem quite the same as sharing a Bed & Breakfast with a female friend and the implications along with doing so.
I figure I'll plan on checking in early to see what type of B&B it is and how appropriate it would even be to roll in at 2:00a.m. or later after hitting the town. I might get in a good workout around town and go back to the room and get ready for the evening adventures and take my things out of the room when I go out. That way, I won't be forced to return to the B&B if plans change and I end up at my girlfriend's house or home instead.
Would you consider staying at a B&B solo if it wasn't for a business trip?
Of course, that relationship ended shortly thereafter. So now a year has almost gone by and the night expires at the end of the month. I figured so as not to lose out on something I've already purchased, I would book the room. I figure nothing wrong with taking advantage of something that is already mine and hitting the town and not having to worry about driving home.
Here's what some of my friends, mainly male, find so funny...I'm planning on staying at the B&B solo. While several of my male friends have offered to provide me company and companionship...since my not so distant naivete about my "friend/ex" I'm not even going to fathom that men and women can be friends that can sleep in the same bed and put myself in that situation (although I've honestly done this many times in the past without physical intimacy - but one rotten egg in the bunch has spoiled that - for now at least).
I would love to invite one of my girlfriends to stay with me. Sure I've shared many a hotel room and even beds with girlfriends and it's never been a problem; however, for some reason it doesn't seem quite the same as sharing a Bed & Breakfast with a female friend and the implications along with doing so.
I figure I'll plan on checking in early to see what type of B&B it is and how appropriate it would even be to roll in at 2:00a.m. or later after hitting the town. I might get in a good workout around town and go back to the room and get ready for the evening adventures and take my things out of the room when I go out. That way, I won't be forced to return to the B&B if plans change and I end up at my girlfriend's house or home instead.
Would you consider staying at a B&B solo if it wasn't for a business trip?
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Irish Dinner Photos
The Irish Dinner was fabulous. The people that I met were entertaining and it was a good time by all. I was more than pleasantly surprised that I liked everything that we made too! Here are a few of the pictures of our meal:
Started the evening off with Guinness. I didn't pull out the camera until the dinner was almost completely made, which meant the appetizers were already primarily devoured!
Corned beef with a stone ground mustard crust & cabbage, Orange-Pineapple marmalade glazed carrots, Atlantic Cod with a cheese scone topping and Mashed potatoes with butter and scallions
Started the evening off with Guinness. I didn't pull out the camera until the dinner was almost completely made, which meant the appetizers were already primarily devoured!
Guinness Fondue with bread pieces
Apple Slices with Irish Cheeses
Irish soda bread (was brought so one less thing we had to make!)
Shepherd's pie with lamb
Corned beef with a stone ground mustard crust & cabbage, Orange-Pineapple marmalade glazed carrots, Atlantic Cod with a cheese scone topping and Mashed potatoes with butter and scallionsIrish bread pudding with a Caramel Whiskey Sauce and Irish Cream cheesecake
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
St. Patrick's Day
HAPPY ST. PATRICK'S DAY!
I hadn't really decided what I wanted to do to celebrate St. Patrick's Day, if I wanted to celebrate at all. While I definitely have Irish roots, I've never been a big fan of Irish food - especially corned beef and cabbage. The smell of cooked cabbage is completely repulsive to me, to the point that I want to hurl!
Initially, due to my schedule, I had made plans to go out with someone I've periodically been spending time with, whom I actually may even like. Like in the sense, that for the first time in a long time, I even initiated a kiss (Caught me more than off guard too!). But between our schedules with our children and work and, and, and...it's just been difficult to really make the time to date without it becoming a part-time job. So I've decided, again, to just not worry about it and erased the penciled in plans of tonight and tomorrow from the books.
Considering St. Patty's Day is the need to drink green beer as well as eat other foods that would be deemed non-consumable or dyed to be festive, I debated whether or not to bar hop. Lots of options, for sure. Wasn't really up for a late night out with more than the norm of intoxicants out celebrating, but hadn't decided, that is until 11p.m., last night.
I found myself in a rather peculiar predicament, certainly not one that I couldn't get myself out of, but the kind where you ask about something and it gets passed on and then...
Long story short, I will be attending an Irish Dinner this evening. I had initially declined of course if the menu was going to include corned beef and cabbage. I love the idea of meeting new people, new experiences and new food, but figured an Irish meal wasn't my first choice. However, I was interested in meeting the host of the dinner to see about having a cooking class in her home, one I purchased for 12 - back during the last auction. I just wasn't ready to inquire of her, yet. She contacted me to see if I wanted to attend the dinner, since she heard I inquired (I inquired about HER not the dinner!). And well, WHY NOT?
Here is the menu for tonight's dinner that we are going to make. I surely wonder if we will be able to cook it all before midnight, let alone next week!:
Corned beef with a stone ground mustard crust & cabbage, served with three fabulous sauces
Orange marmalade glazed carrots
Atlantic Cod with a cheese scone topping
Mashed potatoes with butter and scallions (champ)
Shepherd's pie with lamb
Irish soda bread
Irish cheeses served on apple slices
Guinness fondue
Irish bread pudding with a Caramel Whiskey Sauce
Irish Cream cheesecake
Irish coffee, Guinness and soft drinks
Looking forward to a night of new adventures - maybe now that I'm older, I might even like something on the menu beyond the apples!
Have a great day and be safe in whatever you choose to do on this St. Patty's Day!
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