Sorry about the long void of posts... I come home from school so tired that nothing is getting done right now. I am ready for this surgery to be over with so that I can see how I feel. I really am planning on being less tired and having more pep about me. I'm ready for Amy to be back....
One of my 4th graders said, with a very worried face,"But I thought if they cut your throat, you died!" I assured him that 's why the docs get the big bucks!
Sat., Andy and I have our date to see Spyro Gyra. I hope he loves every minute of it - to me, jazz kinda all sounds alike, but he DID go see Josh Groban with me. A night out at a nice venue with my man - I'll be in heaven in no time.
The ground is hard and dry - how can that be after 40 consecutive rainy days? I walk across the playground at lunch, and the grass is brown and brittle and the cracks show in the soil. Weather is a funny thing. Feast or famine.
Well, I need to go fix dinner. I'm looking forward to not having to cook a lot next week. See - don't I sound grumpy?!? I want ME back!!!
Thursday, September 27, 2007
Thursday, September 20, 2007
News
Earlier in the week; Andy and I met with Dr. Brown, the guy who's taking out my thyroid. I very likeable fellow; laughing eyes and a quick wit - gentle hands around my throat. The visit started off on a bad note, though; they sprayed this deading down my nostrils, and it was nasty - gagged me and made me jump sky high! That did not sit well with me - I like to know what's coming! Anyway - once Dr. Brown came in and we chatted a bit, he began to look in my nose. His eyes widened, and he proceeded to inform me that my septum is very deviated!! So, after he takes out my thyroid, he's going to do a little rinoplasty!! It's apparently a win-win deal; no bruising or swelling and little pain. I'll sleep much better and breathe through my nose for the first time on that side. Nothing will change externally, so you'll recognize me next time we meet after that -
My insurance is going to begin to wonder if I'm trying to come up with these duo-surgeries if I don't stop soon!! Hey, why not get the most out of those anesthestiologists and operating rooms while I can!!
The date: Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2007 - 11:30 am. Please pray.
My insurance is going to begin to wonder if I'm trying to come up with these duo-surgeries if I don't stop soon!! Hey, why not get the most out of those anesthestiologists and operating rooms while I can!!
The date: Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2007 - 11:30 am. Please pray.
Monday, September 17, 2007
Happy B'Day, Andrew
Happy Birthday, Dear Andrew!!
We spent the weekend in Houston, staying at Mom and Dad's to visit at celebrate Andy's turning 53. We had lunch on Sat. with all 3 kids, then back to Dana's place to have Cake and yummy strawberries. Andy nor his parents have seen Dana's apt., so that was fun - she's made herself a nice, homey nest. Later, we played games and had a light dinner at Jason's Deli; then we headed back to visit a little more with the folks.
On Sunday, we worshipped at West Houston. Such a friendly, welcoming place. I think Dana's beginning to find her spot, and it's nice to hear the joy back in her voice. Transitions are hard, but she's coming around again.
Anyway, back to my sweet husband. He got tickets to the upcoming Spyro-Gyra concert from me, and the Planet Earth dvds from the kids. I hope he thinks it was a good birthday; as exciting as they get at our age!!
He's my guy, and I'm so glad we got to spend the day together!! No one else I'd rather be with on any given day -
We spent the weekend in Houston, staying at Mom and Dad's to visit at celebrate Andy's turning 53. We had lunch on Sat. with all 3 kids, then back to Dana's place to have Cake and yummy strawberries. Andy nor his parents have seen Dana's apt., so that was fun - she's made herself a nice, homey nest. Later, we played games and had a light dinner at Jason's Deli; then we headed back to visit a little more with the folks.
On Sunday, we worshipped at West Houston. Such a friendly, welcoming place. I think Dana's beginning to find her spot, and it's nice to hear the joy back in her voice. Transitions are hard, but she's coming around again.
Anyway, back to my sweet husband. He got tickets to the upcoming Spyro-Gyra concert from me, and the Planet Earth dvds from the kids. I hope he thinks it was a good birthday; as exciting as they get at our age!!
He's my guy, and I'm so glad we got to spend the day together!! No one else I'd rather be with on any given day -
Thursday, September 13, 2007
Qualities of a wife
For several years now, Andy has served as an elder in our local congregation. After being a Christian for a long time and serving as a Deacon in two different places, he was approached about being considered to serve as an elder. We were humbled and honored. We both knew the "qualifications" that scripture puts out for us, which describe a man of maturity and wisdom, of good reputation and worthy to be both a leader and a model. After the process made its way through, Andy began to serve.
Several times during this adventure, I've thought about the qualities of an elder's wife. Surely, I've known many different ladies in my life, those of every temperment and personality type. I've tried to find commonality amongst my fellow elders' wives, and I'll be honest - we don't all have a lot in common or seek each other out as a unit.
However, I have come to see one - perhaps the most important- quality that we all appear to have. We have the honor of sharing our husbands with the whole church; sometimes to our dismay. Dinners go uneaten, movies interrupted, and plans changed at the last minute. To be truthful, there's a part of me that sometimes loses focus and recalls the days when there weren't these demands placed on our lives; but that is the reason we waited until the girls were gone to college before we took this work on. They deserved a full-time dad, and especially not parents under the microscope.
I'm pretty glad there isn't a list somewhere that delegates how elders' wives are supposed to be - I find myself pretty different from most of the other wives and that would be a problem. I draw strength from a couple of fellow wives who encourage and uplift me and I love them to death. I'm just going to love my husband and try to make his service to others an easier and more joyful situation. Perhaps that's my biggest job of all.
Several times during this adventure, I've thought about the qualities of an elder's wife. Surely, I've known many different ladies in my life, those of every temperment and personality type. I've tried to find commonality amongst my fellow elders' wives, and I'll be honest - we don't all have a lot in common or seek each other out as a unit.
However, I have come to see one - perhaps the most important- quality that we all appear to have. We have the honor of sharing our husbands with the whole church; sometimes to our dismay. Dinners go uneaten, movies interrupted, and plans changed at the last minute. To be truthful, there's a part of me that sometimes loses focus and recalls the days when there weren't these demands placed on our lives; but that is the reason we waited until the girls were gone to college before we took this work on. They deserved a full-time dad, and especially not parents under the microscope.
I'm pretty glad there isn't a list somewhere that delegates how elders' wives are supposed to be - I find myself pretty different from most of the other wives and that would be a problem. I draw strength from a couple of fellow wives who encourage and uplift me and I love them to death. I'm just going to love my husband and try to make his service to others an easier and more joyful situation. Perhaps that's my biggest job of all.
Monday, September 10, 2007
Where - and why - did they all go?
We are about to get a new church directory. Usually, I notice the big change is that the babies are not babies anymore, or that some dear ones that were with us before have gone on go be with God. In looking at this directory, I'm going to be missing some really dear people who have moved on from us since the last directory.
About 2 years ago now, we had an exodus. Almost 40 families that were with us are no longer calling us their church family. Some moved due to jobs, some moved due to retirement, but the majority of them moved due to situations that should not have happened. It wasn't a big, ugly split like you read about, but just a departure. We were too traditional, we were too liberal; we were too inclusive, we were racist. I guess, bottom line, we just were not what those people wanted.
Even now, I grieve over this; why I don't know. Andy and I have moved our membership from place to place before - life goes on. You make new friends. We've almost added back in number those we lost, they are great people and we love them dearlym but just think where we'd be if we were ALL here, worshipping together.
If I could put all those people in a room together, I'd tell them that I love them, that I miss them and what they brought to the brotherhood here in Pleasanton. That I wish they'd talked more to us before deciding to go. That they'd given us a chance to come to an agreement on what it was that took them from us.
All I can do now is to really love the folks God has given to us even more; to make this the place they want to be, so that we never go through a time like that again. If we can learn from this and become more the church God plans for us, then perhaps that is the good that came of this. I've got to believe something good is ours for the taking, or it will all be in vain.
About 2 years ago now, we had an exodus. Almost 40 families that were with us are no longer calling us their church family. Some moved due to jobs, some moved due to retirement, but the majority of them moved due to situations that should not have happened. It wasn't a big, ugly split like you read about, but just a departure. We were too traditional, we were too liberal; we were too inclusive, we were racist. I guess, bottom line, we just were not what those people wanted.
Even now, I grieve over this; why I don't know. Andy and I have moved our membership from place to place before - life goes on. You make new friends. We've almost added back in number those we lost, they are great people and we love them dearlym but just think where we'd be if we were ALL here, worshipping together.
If I could put all those people in a room together, I'd tell them that I love them, that I miss them and what they brought to the brotherhood here in Pleasanton. That I wish they'd talked more to us before deciding to go. That they'd given us a chance to come to an agreement on what it was that took them from us.
All I can do now is to really love the folks God has given to us even more; to make this the place they want to be, so that we never go through a time like that again. If we can learn from this and become more the church God plans for us, then perhaps that is the good that came of this. I've got to believe something good is ours for the taking, or it will all be in vain.
Thursday, September 06, 2007
Books, books and more books
Today, I took my kids to the library for the 1st time this year. Since they miss their regular library time with their class to meet with me each day, it's usually just the 4 or 5 of us with the whole library to ourselves. (Yes, Dana, I said 4 or 5 - I have a tough job!!)
This year, I worked it out with the librarian to come with all classes on the same day, so I basically camped out there. As the schedule fell, the last two groups actually are coming with their classes, so that fills the room up nicely. We help them search for books on the computer, and monitor them to make sure they are getting books on their reability levels. I always have a little one who reads 1st grade level and wants Harry Potter.
Or they only want Great White Sharks and no other shark book will do.
One little girl, who I don't work with, wanted to read me a portion of her book. She dragged up her chair next to mine, and promptly took off. She was having the best day ever, sharing a book with a teacher. I would never have had the nerve to approach a teacher with that request, which made it all the more something I was glad to be part of. Unfortunately, library time was over before we read the fate of Sacagawea, but I think I've heard the story once before.
Well, we made it through with everyone happily finding the perfect book to last us until next time. Now, if we can all just remember to get back to school with it in good condition!!
This year, I worked it out with the librarian to come with all classes on the same day, so I basically camped out there. As the schedule fell, the last two groups actually are coming with their classes, so that fills the room up nicely. We help them search for books on the computer, and monitor them to make sure they are getting books on their reability levels. I always have a little one who reads 1st grade level and wants Harry Potter.
Or they only want Great White Sharks and no other shark book will do.
One little girl, who I don't work with, wanted to read me a portion of her book. She dragged up her chair next to mine, and promptly took off. She was having the best day ever, sharing a book with a teacher. I would never have had the nerve to approach a teacher with that request, which made it all the more something I was glad to be part of. Unfortunately, library time was over before we read the fate of Sacagawea, but I think I've heard the story once before.
Well, we made it through with everyone happily finding the perfect book to last us until next time. Now, if we can all just remember to get back to school with it in good condition!!
Tuesday, September 04, 2007
God Calling
I love storms. I know a lot of people are frightened by them, but they have always been something I have taken pleasure in.
Right now, as I type, I hear loud, rumbling symphonies of thunder to the west. It's been going on for a while, and the power of its message to me is that God is near. I know, people "see" God in nature; a sleeping baby, a rainbow, a sunrise or sunset. I take pleasure in those beautiful sights as well, but for me, it's the sound of the thunder that moves me most. I find great comfort in the fact that all is working as it should, and that the storm that came will pass, and that my God is in control of it all. I think I've especially enjoyed it so much this summer because of the drought we've been through - the silence of the thunder was lonesome. The oddest part is, I didn't realize how much I'd missed it until it came back.
Right now, as I type, I hear loud, rumbling symphonies of thunder to the west. It's been going on for a while, and the power of its message to me is that God is near. I know, people "see" God in nature; a sleeping baby, a rainbow, a sunrise or sunset. I take pleasure in those beautiful sights as well, but for me, it's the sound of the thunder that moves me most. I find great comfort in the fact that all is working as it should, and that the storm that came will pass, and that my God is in control of it all. I think I've especially enjoyed it so much this summer because of the drought we've been through - the silence of the thunder was lonesome. The oddest part is, I didn't realize how much I'd missed it until it came back.
Monday, September 03, 2007
Coming, here, then gone again.
This past weekend, we had Gregg, Erin, and Roarke for a visit. It was a nice, quiet break after a long first week of school, and I had really gotten excited to have them come. Anticipation is a great thing!
We didn't do a whole lot of exciting things - laughed and commiserated with Roarke and his head cone, went out to eat, and worshipped with everyone yesterday. Several of Erin's church friends were home for the long weekend, so they got to catch up on things, which was nice. Then, we had Erin's requested lunch (meat loaf, corn, mashed potatoes, and peach cobbler), quick dozes for naps, and then, they were gone.
Wait! I'm not ready! It went too fast. But we'll visit again in Houston in a couple of weeks, Lord willing. And perhaps Roarke won't have to be wearing the cone!!
We didn't do a whole lot of exciting things - laughed and commiserated with Roarke and his head cone, went out to eat, and worshipped with everyone yesterday. Several of Erin's church friends were home for the long weekend, so they got to catch up on things, which was nice. Then, we had Erin's requested lunch (meat loaf, corn, mashed potatoes, and peach cobbler), quick dozes for naps, and then, they were gone.
Wait! I'm not ready! It went too fast. But we'll visit again in Houston in a couple of weeks, Lord willing. And perhaps Roarke won't have to be wearing the cone!!
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
Taking the Bad with the Good
After all these long summers of drought, this past summer was a wondrous relief. Not once did I have to drag along the hose and reposition the sprinkler head, or watch in dismay as my plants struggled to stay alive in the heat. Instead of the horrid, dry brown of summer grass, we were treated all along to lovely green fields, with ponds full of water! I never failed to appreciate one day of this change in climate. Until lately...
The BUGS!! They are everywhere, of every type and every smell! Tonight, Andy and I treated ourselves to burgers before church, and INSIDE the place, there were bugs. Crawling along with windowsill, and even getting onto our paper wrappers before we spied them! I caught myself grumbling about all the rain bringing them out, and then I remembered:
you have to take the bad along with the good.
I'll take a few bugs every summer!!
The BUGS!! They are everywhere, of every type and every smell! Tonight, Andy and I treated ourselves to burgers before church, and INSIDE the place, there were bugs. Crawling along with windowsill, and even getting onto our paper wrappers before we spied them! I caught myself grumbling about all the rain bringing them out, and then I remembered:
you have to take the bad along with the good.
I'll take a few bugs every summer!!
Friday, August 24, 2007
TGIF Big Time!
Wow - a week since my last posting. Had no idea. It's been a week of motivational speakers (great, by the way!), team-building, celebrating reaching Recognized by TEA, a biggie; procedures, elections, etc, etc. Coming home with feet very angry at all the hard work after being pretty lazy all summer, a sore back from sitting in little hiney chairs at Primary, and so on. Too tired and pre-occupied to post....
Thursday was "Meet the Teacher Night." I wish I could explain to those of you not teachers how the beginning of school feels; at least at the Elementary level. Shiny, happy yet hesitant faces looking at class lists to see who the teacher will be. Parents coming in carrying $50. worth of school supplies that will be used up by Nov., new shoes and clothes and haircuts. Familiar faces you want to kiss - or hide from - and new ones you want to know. I love it every year.
I work in an old building called the Alamo because the facade in the front "looks like" the Alamo in SA. Every year, parents come in to bring their children to meet their teachers and exclaim, "This is where I went to school! Boy, it looks different!" Not better, necessarily, but different. They want to stand there in the halls and remember how it felt, and return to those days of their youth. It's always a neat thing to witness.
Now, the kids come. The doors will unlock at 7:50 Monday, and by 8:30, it will feel like we never had summer. Halls quiet, kids listening, teachers instructing. It's a wonderful day, full of new friends, and high hopes.
I love the beginning of school!
Thursday was "Meet the Teacher Night." I wish I could explain to those of you not teachers how the beginning of school feels; at least at the Elementary level. Shiny, happy yet hesitant faces looking at class lists to see who the teacher will be. Parents coming in carrying $50. worth of school supplies that will be used up by Nov., new shoes and clothes and haircuts. Familiar faces you want to kiss - or hide from - and new ones you want to know. I love it every year.
I work in an old building called the Alamo because the facade in the front "looks like" the Alamo in SA. Every year, parents come in to bring their children to meet their teachers and exclaim, "This is where I went to school! Boy, it looks different!" Not better, necessarily, but different. They want to stand there in the halls and remember how it felt, and return to those days of their youth. It's always a neat thing to witness.
Now, the kids come. The doors will unlock at 7:50 Monday, and by 8:30, it will feel like we never had summer. Halls quiet, kids listening, teachers instructing. It's a wonderful day, full of new friends, and high hopes.
I love the beginning of school!
Saturday, August 18, 2007
Erin, Crystal, followed soon by Dean
It's been a busy few days. My cousin's daughter and her family came to visit for a few days in the middle of storm Erin. That was an adventure for them - they actually went to Sea World the day it blew in, and made it to 3 shows before the park closed. (They went back yesterday and had a wonderful time.) We enjoyed our time with them, and I've become re-acquainted with the Disney Channel and sippie cups! They have 2 cute kids, who entertained us mightily and we got to know her husband, whom we'd not been around very much. I'm glad they came.
In the middle of Erin, I had to go to Region 20 in SA for some dyslexia training. Scary driving, but I got home safely. The only tragedy of the day was that I opted to stay there and not go out to eat with some of my cohorts. They came back full but drenched; I was dry and hungry.
Now, it looks like Dean may be coming our way. All the hype before school starts really is not the way I'd like to end my summer, but that is how it appears to be shaping up. Andy wants to go stock up on water and canned food; I wanted to go buy new shoes. (I hope Erin, Gregg and Dana stay safe and dry in Houston!)
Hope you are having a good weekend -
In the middle of Erin, I had to go to Region 20 in SA for some dyslexia training. Scary driving, but I got home safely. The only tragedy of the day was that I opted to stay there and not go out to eat with some of my cohorts. They came back full but drenched; I was dry and hungry.
Now, it looks like Dean may be coming our way. All the hype before school starts really is not the way I'd like to end my summer, but that is how it appears to be shaping up. Andy wants to go stock up on water and canned food; I wanted to go buy new shoes. (I hope Erin, Gregg and Dana stay safe and dry in Houston!)
Hope you are having a good weekend -
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
Mrs.Jeckle/Mrs. Hyde
It's happened. I felt it last night at the Huttons; my school persona has reared it's ugly head again. Oh, well - it was nice while it lasted.
We met the Huttons at the beginning of summer in about 1995. They'd just moved out of SA, and our families hit it off immediately - our girls the same age as their boys, active in church - it was a natural fit. That summer, we grew closer and closer, spending premium time together. It was great.
Then, August came. School. Schedule. Jackie saw a side of me she'd not met before. Tired, grumpy, preoccupied. Our fun time dwindled down to weekends at best, but we hung on. When May came, and I was really all those previously mentioned states, she actually told someone to watch out, that I became "mean" at the end of school. Then, we were back to the good old summer, and I was back to the Amy she'd met a year before.
Well, it's August again, and the party's over. Last night, after sitting in training all day, I felt old, tired, and grumpy. Sorry. I'm going to work on those good traits this year, so the "good Amy" is around more. I like her a lot better!!
Have a good day!
We met the Huttons at the beginning of summer in about 1995. They'd just moved out of SA, and our families hit it off immediately - our girls the same age as their boys, active in church - it was a natural fit. That summer, we grew closer and closer, spending premium time together. It was great.
Then, August came. School. Schedule. Jackie saw a side of me she'd not met before. Tired, grumpy, preoccupied. Our fun time dwindled down to weekends at best, but we hung on. When May came, and I was really all those previously mentioned states, she actually told someone to watch out, that I became "mean" at the end of school. Then, we were back to the good old summer, and I was back to the Amy she'd met a year before.
Well, it's August again, and the party's over. Last night, after sitting in training all day, I felt old, tired, and grumpy. Sorry. I'm going to work on those good traits this year, so the "good Amy" is around more. I like her a lot better!!
Have a good day!
Sunday, August 12, 2007
So, who's watching?
I've been SO hungry for pizza lately! I want it all the time, and Andy has placated me when he couldn't hush me. Don't know why, but it's been annoying! So, the other day, I took myself to the Pizza Hut for buffet, all by myself, and worked to quell that little craving. Good salad, good pizza, good people-watching.
After I'd been there a while, a little boy approached me. He looked like a ragamuffin from a movie; disheveled hair, cock-eyed ball cap, mis-matched clothes. Cute, blond and dirty; like kids I see at school. Couldn't place him, so I was curious that he'd walk right up to me.
"Are you still a teacher?"
"Yes."
"Do you still teach at the Elementary?" Kinda shy, quiet questions coming from this little stranger.
It was bugging me, because I take pride in noticing these little lost ones, and he was not ringing any bells.
"What grade are you going to be in this year?" I thought this would help place him; he was tiny.
Big grin: "6th."
"Did you have a good summer?" Safe, obscure question. Don't want to hurt his feelings that I don't know him from Adam.
"Yes."
I see that his dad has left their table and is heading to pay and leave.
"You have a good year and make good grades, okay?"
"Yes ma'am. You have a good year too."
I kept thinking after he left, and I still don't know who he is. But sometime in his last couple of years, he noticed me. And, luckily, I came across as approachable and friendly. Thank God for that - and I hope I remember him as this new year begins; each and every one of those little ones I meet everyday deserve to feel as important as I hope I made him feel on our chance encounter meeting at Pizza Hut on a hot August day.
So, that's why I was craving pizza!
After I'd been there a while, a little boy approached me. He looked like a ragamuffin from a movie; disheveled hair, cock-eyed ball cap, mis-matched clothes. Cute, blond and dirty; like kids I see at school. Couldn't place him, so I was curious that he'd walk right up to me.
"Are you still a teacher?"
"Yes."
"Do you still teach at the Elementary?" Kinda shy, quiet questions coming from this little stranger.
It was bugging me, because I take pride in noticing these little lost ones, and he was not ringing any bells.
"What grade are you going to be in this year?" I thought this would help place him; he was tiny.
Big grin: "6th."
"Did you have a good summer?" Safe, obscure question. Don't want to hurt his feelings that I don't know him from Adam.
"Yes."
I see that his dad has left their table and is heading to pay and leave.
"You have a good year and make good grades, okay?"
"Yes ma'am. You have a good year too."
I kept thinking after he left, and I still don't know who he is. But sometime in his last couple of years, he noticed me. And, luckily, I came across as approachable and friendly. Thank God for that - and I hope I remember him as this new year begins; each and every one of those little ones I meet everyday deserve to feel as important as I hope I made him feel on our chance encounter meeting at Pizza Hut on a hot August day.
So, that's why I was craving pizza!
Tuesday, August 07, 2007
Missing Palmer....
Many years ago, I began reading Palmer's blog; only the second blog I'd ever ventured into. He was a young minister with a baby and a dying wife. I got caught up in their story, and have followed it to this day. Palmer remarried and has since also died of almost the same cancer that killed his wife before him. Lately, I've really missed hearing what Palmer had to say - and so yesterday I went back into his archives and read his last few months of postings. It made me so sad, once again to think of one with so young and vital a life cut so short.
Then I began to think of the other husbands this summer who have died too young. My cousin Bobby was only 57, and a couple of weeks ago, a co-worker lost her husband at only 64. Three women, all widows when they thought they had many years ahead with their spouses face nights alone.
Andy and I do not sleep cuddled up. We both like to sleep in our own space, but we do cuddle a bit before we say our "Goodnights." Sometimes it lasts longer than others, depending on how hot the night air is or how late or tired we are, but it's enough to know that we've had another day together.
I hope I never take it for granted.
Then I began to think of the other husbands this summer who have died too young. My cousin Bobby was only 57, and a couple of weeks ago, a co-worker lost her husband at only 64. Three women, all widows when they thought they had many years ahead with their spouses face nights alone.
Andy and I do not sleep cuddled up. We both like to sleep in our own space, but we do cuddle a bit before we say our "Goodnights." Sometimes it lasts longer than others, depending on how hot the night air is or how late or tired we are, but it's enough to know that we've had another day together.
I hope I never take it for granted.
Monday, August 06, 2007
Latest good news
Some days, you just can't think of a thing to say. Another day of my summer break has passed, and I don't have anything to show for it. Andy and I are both really, really tired from our busy weekend, and I was waiting to hear from Erin, so I just let the day go by, resting. Usually, I don't mind treating Monday as a rest day, but the closer school gets to starting, the fewer Mondays I have left.
On Friday, Andy went with me to get the results of my tests from Dr. Cruz. Good news: all was benign!! I do appear to have what is called Dr. Hashimoto's Thyroidism, so I'll be seeing an ENT surgeon in the next couple of weeks to set up getting my thyroid out. It is about the size of a small orange, and will continue to grow, so out it will come. It should be a much less stressful surgery than I faced before, with a shorter recoup time.
I am so grateful to God for the good report once again. I'll keep you posted. Let's assume this will be the last trial for a good, long while!
On Friday, Andy went with me to get the results of my tests from Dr. Cruz. Good news: all was benign!! I do appear to have what is called Dr. Hashimoto's Thyroidism, so I'll be seeing an ENT surgeon in the next couple of weeks to set up getting my thyroid out. It is about the size of a small orange, and will continue to grow, so out it will come. It should be a much less stressful surgery than I faced before, with a shorter recoup time.
I am so grateful to God for the good report once again. I'll keep you posted. Let's assume this will be the last trial for a good, long while!
Saturday, August 04, 2007
The Things We Hold On To
Andy calls my dresser and its surrounding area the "Black Hole" - a reference to piles of stuff on both the dresser and its floor. Sometimes, the term is used with a chuckle in his voice, but lately (all summer) it's had a bit of a tinge of frustration that I hear. I don't blame him; it's awful. It makes me shut my door when people come over, and he's threatened a few times to just go in and throw away all that is involved. I know it's a "thing" with me - good intentions each day and all that - but for whatever the reason, I can't bring myself to tackle the chore.
One of the items I deal most with is my bunny. I'm 52 years old, and I still have my stuffed bunny that I slept with as a little girl. The wire in its ear pokes out, and there isn't much stuffing, but I can't bring myself to throw it out. I know neither girl wants the thing, and I should just have Andy do it while I am out to save me from it, but there it lays, bringing back memories of comfort and security.
This is my promise for all to see; the Black Hole will be dealt with this coming week. Now some of you will hold me to it, and Andy will be a happy, happy man.
I will be, too, when all is said and done; it's just getting started.
Is there a 12 Step Program for Procrastinators???
One of the items I deal most with is my bunny. I'm 52 years old, and I still have my stuffed bunny that I slept with as a little girl. The wire in its ear pokes out, and there isn't much stuffing, but I can't bring myself to throw it out. I know neither girl wants the thing, and I should just have Andy do it while I am out to save me from it, but there it lays, bringing back memories of comfort and security.
This is my promise for all to see; the Black Hole will be dealt with this coming week. Now some of you will hold me to it, and Andy will be a happy, happy man.
I will be, too, when all is said and done; it's just getting started.
Is there a 12 Step Program for Procrastinators???
Thursday, August 02, 2007
Hard work with a little fun thrown in....
Home from Houston... tired but satisfied. Didn't help as much as Dana probably needed, but I did a fair number of boxes. Lots of moral support, if that counts for anything! Last thing I did before leaving town was to see her new school home and meet a couple of co-workers - made a good impression. I love looking at schools, and this one seems a happy place for kids.
Tuesday night, while Gregg was out with his buds, Erin came and picked us up. We ate at Macalister's Deli - great sweet tea - and then went to see Hairspray. It was SO fun - lots of memories of my preteen years of the early 60s; American Bandstand on a Sat. morning, girls in dresses only, segregation. I laughed outloud during most of it and then giggled at recollections all night afterwards. A wonderful night with my grown daughters. I'm so glad they are close!!
Now I'm back for a busy weekend - get biopsy results tomorrow, Bourne movie date with the man of my dreams, Game night on Saturday and then the elders' luncheon at our home Sun. lunch. Two weeks of summer to go - school is crossing my mind like it does come Aug. 1.
Life is good.
Tuesday night, while Gregg was out with his buds, Erin came and picked us up. We ate at Macalister's Deli - great sweet tea - and then went to see Hairspray. It was SO fun - lots of memories of my preteen years of the early 60s; American Bandstand on a Sat. morning, girls in dresses only, segregation. I laughed outloud during most of it and then giggled at recollections all night afterwards. A wonderful night with my grown daughters. I'm so glad they are close!!
Now I'm back for a busy weekend - get biopsy results tomorrow, Bourne movie date with the man of my dreams, Game night on Saturday and then the elders' luncheon at our home Sun. lunch. Two weeks of summer to go - school is crossing my mind like it does come Aug. 1.
Life is good.
Friday, July 27, 2007
Ta-Da!!
Today was an adventure. Andy and I went into SA for my thyroid biopsy, and it went like clockwork. The nicest technician took some scans first, then it was time to meet the doctor. They both agreed my thyroid was "not pretty; a mess", but not the worse they'd seen.
I was pretty cool about the whole thing until he announced right before starting that he didn't think he'd use the deadening- "it's just another poke, and that needle's a lot bigger than the one for the biopsy." Let's just say my attention was all his; and the tech's hand was nicely squeezed!! They both assured me that if I was "uncomfortable" after the first poke, they'd deaden me then. Oh, thanks!
Three pokes later, all "dead on center", and it was all done. Now we wait another week for the results, but I'm thinking it's all good.
I'll keep you posted.
I was pretty cool about the whole thing until he announced right before starting that he didn't think he'd use the deadening- "it's just another poke, and that needle's a lot bigger than the one for the biopsy." Let's just say my attention was all his; and the tech's hand was nicely squeezed!! They both assured me that if I was "uncomfortable" after the first poke, they'd deaden me then. Oh, thanks!
Three pokes later, all "dead on center", and it was all done. Now we wait another week for the results, but I'm thinking it's all good.
I'll keep you posted.
Thursday, July 26, 2007
"...for whom the phone rings...."
My post today begins with the "the bell tolls for thee" reference, because of the way my day began.
Telephones are great inventions. Our lives today are not even fathomable (sp) without them. They bring the most mundane of news and the most wonderful news into our lives instantaneously. I think about the "olden days" when news traveled by letter or even word of mouth, and how things were said and done before we ever heard of the possibility. Now we take the cell phone into the bathroom with us in case we miss an "important" call. How ridiculous and dependent we have become.
At 8:39 this morning, my phone rang. Now people who know me know that 9:00 is the best time to catch me up and going, so I figured this had to be a telemarketer or something else. Instead, it was the secretary of my school, calling on the "phone tree." That meant at emergency. I learn from her that a co-worker's husband has had a stroke/annurism and that today they are taking him off life support. They are harvesting his organs for donation, and then she will become his widow. Good morning, Amy.
They live down the street from us, and I've worked with Mary Caroline for may years. She was very dear to me at the passing of my
mother. Their children are my daughters' ages. Now, she is without her spouse. Andy tells me he spoke to him on Sunday, and is shocked himself.
All over town today, the phones are ringing for Jim Chambers. Keep his family in your prayers as they face the coming days.
Telephones are great inventions. Our lives today are not even fathomable (sp) without them. They bring the most mundane of news and the most wonderful news into our lives instantaneously. I think about the "olden days" when news traveled by letter or even word of mouth, and how things were said and done before we ever heard of the possibility. Now we take the cell phone into the bathroom with us in case we miss an "important" call. How ridiculous and dependent we have become.
At 8:39 this morning, my phone rang. Now people who know me know that 9:00 is the best time to catch me up and going, so I figured this had to be a telemarketer or something else. Instead, it was the secretary of my school, calling on the "phone tree." That meant at emergency. I learn from her that a co-worker's husband has had a stroke/annurism and that today they are taking him off life support. They are harvesting his organs for donation, and then she will become his widow. Good morning, Amy.
They live down the street from us, and I've worked with Mary Caroline for may years. She was very dear to me at the passing of my
mother. Their children are my daughters' ages. Now, she is without her spouse. Andy tells me he spoke to him on Sunday, and is shocked himself.
All over town today, the phones are ringing for Jim Chambers. Keep his family in your prayers as they face the coming days.
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
Being 52
Sometimes lately, I feel like I'm looking at life out of someone else's eyes. I find myself thinking and saying things the "old Amy" would never have done. Here are some reflections of my new mindset:
I get REALLY irritated when someone tells me how I feel or what I think about something. Used to, I'd just stay quiet and let them, but now it is almost a dare to go all over them just to make my point.
My sweet daughters know that "stupid questions" have always gone all over me, but lately, I just will not answer. That is so rude, and so unlike who I've always been - patient, understanding, etc. Not I can barely tolerate people who ask the obvious. I truly think this is due to our society becoming SO mindless that I am overwhelmed at the lack of brain being used. My favorite: "Are you serious?!" No. I'm lying.
I just do not worry anymore (Except for a few dear loved ones) just what people think about me. Oh my gosh - this is from the people pleaser of all time! One particular little woman at church is craving attention and will run you down to get a hug, and I walk right by her.
I'm headed to Hell....
Dana tells me that it's my menopausal brain. I've GOT to read that book. But even if it EXPLAINS why I'm acting like I am, does that EXCUSE it? I mean, school is starting soon and I'll be back around people for long periods of time - I've got to get this back under control. At least during the summer, I've been able to control the majority of my bad behavior, but those days are coming to an end, and I have a reputation to defend.
Do I need hormones? Any suggestions??
I get REALLY irritated when someone tells me how I feel or what I think about something. Used to, I'd just stay quiet and let them, but now it is almost a dare to go all over them just to make my point.
My sweet daughters know that "stupid questions" have always gone all over me, but lately, I just will not answer. That is so rude, and so unlike who I've always been - patient, understanding, etc. Not I can barely tolerate people who ask the obvious. I truly think this is due to our society becoming SO mindless that I am overwhelmed at the lack of brain being used. My favorite: "Are you serious?!" No. I'm lying.
I just do not worry anymore (Except for a few dear loved ones) just what people think about me. Oh my gosh - this is from the people pleaser of all time! One particular little woman at church is craving attention and will run you down to get a hug, and I walk right by her.
I'm headed to Hell....
Dana tells me that it's my menopausal brain. I've GOT to read that book. But even if it EXPLAINS why I'm acting like I am, does that EXCUSE it? I mean, school is starting soon and I'll be back around people for long periods of time - I've got to get this back under control. At least during the summer, I've been able to control the majority of my bad behavior, but those days are coming to an end, and I have a reputation to defend.
Do I need hormones? Any suggestions??
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