Well, folks, here we are at the end of November. It's hard to believe this year is almost over already. Yesterday was the first Sunday in Advent. Three more Sundays of Advent, and then we find ourselves at Christmas.
This is also the season of "end of the semester crunch." That sounds like a cereal tagline. "Stressy-O's-they've got that great end of the semester crunch." Haha.
Anyway...In chapel today, our senior preacher talked about the hustle and bustle of the "Christmas Season," meaning how secular culture hijacks the month of December to hawk their wares and get out of the red. He talked of how Christ's birth means more than that. These words were a good reminder.
I find it hard to believe all that has happened since last Christmas. I am a person who often measures time by looking at significant events that have occurred. I remember when X happened because it happened near when Y happened, or on the anniversary of Z, or whatever. Since last Christmas, the hubster and I went on the "Tour de Sushi" vacation, Hub and I celebrated our first married Christmas and Valentine's Day, I made the trip back to Illinois twice to be with my sick and dying mother and then for her death and funeral. I chanted in front of 400 people during Easter morning worship as the intern pastor, among other duties I held as an intern until my experience was over on May 30th. Housewifing for a couple of months held my time, as well as another vacation, skydiving, bringing two of my three nephews to stay with us in ND for a week, and then moving back to school the same weekend as a good high school friend got married. My first semester of senior year is quickly drawing to a close, but not before my first birthday as an orphan, and the dawn of "the Holidays" with this same reality for me and my siblings and countless other people in the world who have experienced the death of loved ones this year.
With all of these truths, with all the joys and sorrows that have come this year, the importance of Christ's presence with and for this world is a great truth to remember. The love of God in Christ Jesus is not something that takes away the hurt and grief of no longer having mom and dad, grandma and grandpa, and other loved ones, but this presence IS a reminder that through it all, we are not forsaken. We are not forgotten. The ones we have lost are not forsaken or forgotten. I take comfort in Jesus words in Matthew 28:20, "And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age."
The world DOES change. Things happen that we wish wouldn't. Pain and happiness mingle together; poignantly at such a time in the year when so much time and energy is spent on "family." And so, with the new reality for me that has only come through my orphanhood, I am learning to embrace "the Holidays," not with a fake, plastered on smile, but with authenticity, with a renewed sensitivity to others, and with the assurance of my Lord and my God: "I am with you always," to love, to forgive, and to offer life where once there was death.
Showing posts with label Holidays. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Holidays. Show all posts
Monday, November 29, 2010
Monday, November 01, 2010
For All the Saints
Today is All Saints Day; a day in the Church where we remember the saints triumphant (those who have died in Christ) and the saints militant (those who are still living).
In chapel this morning, the leaders read off all the names that were given to them of people related to the community who have died since last year's All Saints celebration. What struck me was how MANY names were read off. I personally knew of several of the people, and some that weren't mentioned. But there were a lot of names brought forth to remember this day. What a reminder of the faith around us and how we all live in the ripples.
I am grateful this day for the example of faith that has been shown to me through many saints. This year, obviously, All Saints Day has taken a slightly different bent, and yet I remember my mom at the same time that many people remember parents, aunts, uncles, grandparents, and friends.
This community is one that has experienced loss this year. We have grieved the loss of a friend and classmate, the loss of parents (I'm not the only one by far), the loss of loved ones. And yet we still gather to worship, to embrace one another in friendship, and to serve the God who has called us in our baptism to be in this place for a time. We prepare to be sent out in service to the God who calls us to be salt for the earth.
We do so because God has given us people to love and to serve for Christ's sake in the power of the Holy Spirit. For those who have gone before, rest in peace in the love and mercy of Almighty God.
In chapel this morning, the leaders read off all the names that were given to them of people related to the community who have died since last year's All Saints celebration. What struck me was how MANY names were read off. I personally knew of several of the people, and some that weren't mentioned. But there were a lot of names brought forth to remember this day. What a reminder of the faith around us and how we all live in the ripples.
I am grateful this day for the example of faith that has been shown to me through many saints. This year, obviously, All Saints Day has taken a slightly different bent, and yet I remember my mom at the same time that many people remember parents, aunts, uncles, grandparents, and friends.
This community is one that has experienced loss this year. We have grieved the loss of a friend and classmate, the loss of parents (I'm not the only one by far), the loss of loved ones. And yet we still gather to worship, to embrace one another in friendship, and to serve the God who has called us in our baptism to be in this place for a time. We prepare to be sent out in service to the God who calls us to be salt for the earth.
We do so because God has given us people to love and to serve for Christ's sake in the power of the Holy Spirit. For those who have gone before, rest in peace in the love and mercy of Almighty God.
Sunday, December 20, 2009
A Post We Hope is Cohesive, but Will Probably End Up Just Rambling On
Holy Cow. It has been way too long since I've updated this blog. Yikes. I guess being a married woman with a "job" makes me a bit more busy than when I'm simply an unemployed student.
Well, J and I have been married for about seven months now. Time flies when you're having fun. He really is a wonderful man and I love him like mad, even if I don't always seem like I do.
Internship...Well, I still am really enjoying it. I usually preach twice a month, consecutive Sundays. I have two churches, so I preach once at each. We have a retired Presbyterian pastor and his wife who attend the big church, and they are so nice. After every time I preach there, on the way out when he shakes my hand he says something so encouraging. One time he said, "You really have a gift, friend!" Today, he said, "You really write a mean sermon!" (Not mean in the "hellfire and brimstone" way, but "mean" like, "Woah, dude" type of way). That means a lot to me coming from someone who's been ordained for 56 years.
Also on internship, I am enjoying leading a monthly Bible study, leading services at an assisted living facility as well as two nursing homes, and getting to know the people more. I'm not such a fan of being a confirmation small group leader. Teenagers have never been my strong suit. When I WAS a teenager, I didn't even really feel like I fit with most of them. But, we laugh and I am still a dork, and if they don't like it, oh well. The problem more lies with I have a hard time being "the heavy" on kids who really don't show an interest in religion. I try to help them see God's relevance in their lives, but at this age, I just don't think my group "gets it." We'll see.
Anyway, it's cold here in North Dakota. We had a bitter cold snap last week with temperatures (without wind chill) being in the negative teens. It was very frigid. So, when it warmed up to 34 degrees, I went around without a coat. It's funny how we get acclimated to this sort of thing. We don't have very much snow yet, but it's supposed to snow pretty much all week, I think. Hopefully it doesn't make my commute too hairy. If all else, many many people have offered me a place to stay in my internship town in case it ever gets gross outside and leaves me unable to travel. I serve with really great people.
Christmas is right around the corner. Today was the last week of Advent. I really like Advent. I think it appeals to my "dark" side, not that Advent is "dark." Advent, though, has a much different flavor than Christmas, and I appreciate the contemplative nature I think Advent embodies. This is my first Christmas away from Illinois. I'm trying to roll with the changes, but sometimes it's hard. I'm not going to lie about that one. It's not that I've never spent Christmas more alone than how I'm going to spend it this year, or anything. When my mom was still relatively healthy, she dated this really awesome guy and would go to his family gatherings on the holidays. My siblings, at that point, were all going to their significant others' family gatherings. So, I was often left at home alone on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. I wasn't thrilled about it, but hey, I'm not the type to invite myself places.
So, the deal this year is that I'm roughly 800 miles from all my family, and I miss them. After about a year or two of being left alone on the holidays, Sis decided to throw "combined" family parties, so no one would have to be alone. And now, I'm in NoDak, all my family is in Illinois, J's family is in Minnesota, and I am missing the "familiar." J got us a Christmas tree this year, and I realized I left all my ornaments at home in Illinois. So, the Christmas tree is full of his (very cute) ornaments, but I still find myself a little sad that this tree seems to be "his" and not "ours." Maybe that's weird of me to say, but I can't help feeling that way. I think the "firsts" in our lives, cause grief, even if they're "happy" firsts. My "first" married Christmas is also my first Christmas completely away from everything I've ever known.
I am looking forward to our first married Christmas. I was driving home from church today and I realized that we have pretty much "been together" for two years now. Our first date was in December '07. I blogged about it, but at the time didn't realize it was a date. Looking back on it, I just smack my head and say, "DUH!" Ha. So, married Christmas will be neat. I came to visit the week after Christmas last year, and that was fun, and I really am looking forward to this year.
Finally, I suppose a part of my ambivalence about Christmas this year comes from Mom's continuing illness. Sis and YS went to the Supermax on December 1st because the home puts on a Christmas dinner every year. They went and sat with Ma and they had dinner and I think some games and things. Mom, although still pretty much completely ambulatory, has lost the ability to speak in any sort of coherence. Sis and YS said that most of the words she uses are actually "non-words," which is common for people with dementia. On the plus side, she did call YS by name at one point, and she was reading some words off a napkin or something, although some of the time, she was able to read them, and some of the time, she was putting the emPHASis on the wrong sylABle, and sometimes she was saying the completely wrong words. But sometimes it's there, so that's neat. I just am finding myself really missing her right now, which is weird to say considering she's still alive. But, although some of the essence of her personality is still there, the majority of how she once related to people is not. I haven't talked to her or seen her in almost seven months because the phone really is not something she can handle anymore, and I've not been "home" since early June. I feel like a huge whiner with this paragraph, but sometimes it helps to just put it out there.
Anyway, so that is what is going on in the life and times of Trish. I have said it before and I will probably always say it, but there are things we consider "good" and "bad" in every day, and I'm trying to live more "good" than "bad." I hope you all have a blessed end of the Advent season, a very merry Christmas, and a wonderful and hope-filled start to the new year. It's hard to believe that 10 years ago, people were freaking out about the Y2K bug. Lol. May this next year be one of little anxiety and much joy. Peace.
Well, J and I have been married for about seven months now. Time flies when you're having fun. He really is a wonderful man and I love him like mad, even if I don't always seem like I do.
Internship...Well, I still am really enjoying it. I usually preach twice a month, consecutive Sundays. I have two churches, so I preach once at each. We have a retired Presbyterian pastor and his wife who attend the big church, and they are so nice. After every time I preach there, on the way out when he shakes my hand he says something so encouraging. One time he said, "You really have a gift, friend!" Today, he said, "You really write a mean sermon!" (Not mean in the "hellfire and brimstone" way, but "mean" like, "Woah, dude" type of way). That means a lot to me coming from someone who's been ordained for 56 years.
Also on internship, I am enjoying leading a monthly Bible study, leading services at an assisted living facility as well as two nursing homes, and getting to know the people more. I'm not such a fan of being a confirmation small group leader. Teenagers have never been my strong suit. When I WAS a teenager, I didn't even really feel like I fit with most of them. But, we laugh and I am still a dork, and if they don't like it, oh well. The problem more lies with I have a hard time being "the heavy" on kids who really don't show an interest in religion. I try to help them see God's relevance in their lives, but at this age, I just don't think my group "gets it." We'll see.
Anyway, it's cold here in North Dakota. We had a bitter cold snap last week with temperatures (without wind chill) being in the negative teens. It was very frigid. So, when it warmed up to 34 degrees, I went around without a coat. It's funny how we get acclimated to this sort of thing. We don't have very much snow yet, but it's supposed to snow pretty much all week, I think. Hopefully it doesn't make my commute too hairy. If all else, many many people have offered me a place to stay in my internship town in case it ever gets gross outside and leaves me unable to travel. I serve with really great people.
Christmas is right around the corner. Today was the last week of Advent. I really like Advent. I think it appeals to my "dark" side, not that Advent is "dark." Advent, though, has a much different flavor than Christmas, and I appreciate the contemplative nature I think Advent embodies. This is my first Christmas away from Illinois. I'm trying to roll with the changes, but sometimes it's hard. I'm not going to lie about that one. It's not that I've never spent Christmas more alone than how I'm going to spend it this year, or anything. When my mom was still relatively healthy, she dated this really awesome guy and would go to his family gatherings on the holidays. My siblings, at that point, were all going to their significant others' family gatherings. So, I was often left at home alone on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. I wasn't thrilled about it, but hey, I'm not the type to invite myself places.
So, the deal this year is that I'm roughly 800 miles from all my family, and I miss them. After about a year or two of being left alone on the holidays, Sis decided to throw "combined" family parties, so no one would have to be alone. And now, I'm in NoDak, all my family is in Illinois, J's family is in Minnesota, and I am missing the "familiar." J got us a Christmas tree this year, and I realized I left all my ornaments at home in Illinois. So, the Christmas tree is full of his (very cute) ornaments, but I still find myself a little sad that this tree seems to be "his" and not "ours." Maybe that's weird of me to say, but I can't help feeling that way. I think the "firsts" in our lives, cause grief, even if they're "happy" firsts. My "first" married Christmas is also my first Christmas completely away from everything I've ever known.
I am looking forward to our first married Christmas. I was driving home from church today and I realized that we have pretty much "been together" for two years now. Our first date was in December '07. I blogged about it, but at the time didn't realize it was a date. Looking back on it, I just smack my head and say, "DUH!" Ha. So, married Christmas will be neat. I came to visit the week after Christmas last year, and that was fun, and I really am looking forward to this year.
Finally, I suppose a part of my ambivalence about Christmas this year comes from Mom's continuing illness. Sis and YS went to the Supermax on December 1st because the home puts on a Christmas dinner every year. They went and sat with Ma and they had dinner and I think some games and things. Mom, although still pretty much completely ambulatory, has lost the ability to speak in any sort of coherence. Sis and YS said that most of the words she uses are actually "non-words," which is common for people with dementia. On the plus side, she did call YS by name at one point, and she was reading some words off a napkin or something, although some of the time, she was able to read them, and some of the time, she was putting the emPHASis on the wrong sylABle, and sometimes she was saying the completely wrong words. But sometimes it's there, so that's neat. I just am finding myself really missing her right now, which is weird to say considering she's still alive. But, although some of the essence of her personality is still there, the majority of how she once related to people is not. I haven't talked to her or seen her in almost seven months because the phone really is not something she can handle anymore, and I've not been "home" since early June. I feel like a huge whiner with this paragraph, but sometimes it helps to just put it out there.
Anyway, so that is what is going on in the life and times of Trish. I have said it before and I will probably always say it, but there are things we consider "good" and "bad" in every day, and I'm trying to live more "good" than "bad." I hope you all have a blessed end of the Advent season, a very merry Christmas, and a wonderful and hope-filled start to the new year. It's hard to believe that 10 years ago, people were freaking out about the Y2K bug. Lol. May this next year be one of little anxiety and much joy. Peace.
Monday, December 31, 2007
3 hours, 52 minutes and counting!
So, here we are with a few hours left in 2007. There is a party going on down in the refectory that started at 6:00, but 6:00 is too early. I'm going for the fashionably late thing, and I'm going to go at 9:00 or so. Ok, I'm lying; I'm waiting because SCRUBS is on! Ha. I think I'm going to make popcorn as my snack to share, because that's what I have and everyone loves popcorn.
Anyway, 2007... Some highlights:
1.I moved to seminary and started CPE. CPE was a great experience for me and I met a lot of great people. I miss them, but sometimes some of us still talk. Good times.
2.Sunscreen was born!!! Yay! He's adorable! I love that child like crazy. He's seven months old now and he's so adorable.
3.I made LOTS of AWESOME friends! It's amazing that there are so many awesome people in one place.
4.I passed Greek! Woohoo!
There were several more great things, but those were the highlights. Thanks for reading, my dear and loyal readers. I wish you the best of celebrations, and be safe.
Oh, and this post sets me over the number of last year's posts! Got it in under the wire!
Anyway, 2007... Some highlights:
1.I moved to seminary and started CPE. CPE was a great experience for me and I met a lot of great people. I miss them, but sometimes some of us still talk. Good times.
2.Sunscreen was born!!! Yay! He's adorable! I love that child like crazy. He's seven months old now and he's so adorable.
3.I made LOTS of AWESOME friends! It's amazing that there are so many awesome people in one place.
4.I passed Greek! Woohoo!
There were several more great things, but those were the highlights. Thanks for reading, my dear and loyal readers. I wish you the best of celebrations, and be safe.
Oh, and this post sets me over the number of last year's posts! Got it in under the wire!
Tuesday, December 25, 2007
Christmas
Here I sit, with 34 minutes and change left to Christmas day. I have had a pretty good holiday, although it's been different. My whole family never got all the way together, but I did see all of them at one point or another. Sis, BiL, Howard, Sunscreen and I went and visited Ma in the home on Christmas Eve and celebrated with her then. Younger Older Brother and his wife and son went to see Ma tonight. When they got there, Oldest Brother was there, sans his wife. Shortly after YOB arrived, I did, as well. We spent several hours with her, so that was something.
I also went tonight to see Grandma and celebrate a little with her. We're not advised to take either Grandma or Ma out of the home. Ma, because she would put up a fight in going back, and Grandma because it is too physically taxing on her body.
Sis didn't have a real tree this year. She had this really sparse, "Charlie Brown" tree that she put silver and gold decorations on. No lights. The first real, in the living room tree I saw was tonight at YS's house. It was pretty, but it made me realize I missed having a big, real Christmas tree all decked out with ornaments that we've had FOREVER, and with big colored lights on it. But, circumstances change, and it's important to change with them.
On Christmas Eve, I got to church and sat down at a table in the fellowship hall because I'm still not feeling 100% from being sick. I was talking with some people and found out a really cool guy from church died on Sunday. I was bummed. They were snowbirds, and so he died in Florida, but they're coming back this week for the funeral. I can't believe he's gone. He wasn't even that old, and he seemed to be in great health. He and his wife used to come in and eat at Restaurant and tease me in a good natured way. I'm going to miss the guy. I'm sure they would appreciate prayers. You may not know their names, but God does.
While I was sitting there, Pastor came up to me and said, "I need to talk to you for a minute." So, I followed him to his office. I figured he was going to ask me to help lead worship. I'd done so in the past, and I had been in to have a chat with him on Tuesday and he mentioned it. So, he said, "Here's what your parts are, and this is what you do." So, I was like, "Cool, I can handle that." And then he went over behind his desk and brought out a gift bag and said, "The congregation got you a gift." I said, "Really? That was nice. They didn't have to do that." And he said, "But they wanted to." And he set the bag on the table and said, "Take a peek." So, I read the card that was attached to the handle and looked inside and said, "Are you serious?" And I pulled out a Canon Sure Shot digital camera. The card had said, "Trish, Enjoy your trip to the Holy Land. Take lots of pictures! We would be happy to see them. Merry Christmas." Awesome! I had mentioned in passing a good long while ago that I was pumped because YS's boyfriend was going to loan me his digital camera, but Pastor said that they thought I should have my own. Wow. I am so blessed to be in this family of faith. So many of them stopped and chatted with me after the service and asked about life and about everything. They really care about me, and I really care about them. I think and hope this is the way it's supposed to be; what with all this love and stuff. They're over the top with showing me love sometimes, but I'm so grateful.
So, besides having no beef balls, no egg nog, no pickled herring, and no Christmas tree, it was still a pretty good holiday. Somewhat bittersweet with what is going on with Mom and all, but still more good than not. I hope you all had a marvelous, fantastic day, and that you are trusting in the promises of what the future holds. Peace out, y'all.
Oh, p.s. 8 more days or so til we leave for ISRAEL!
I also went tonight to see Grandma and celebrate a little with her. We're not advised to take either Grandma or Ma out of the home. Ma, because she would put up a fight in going back, and Grandma because it is too physically taxing on her body.
Sis didn't have a real tree this year. She had this really sparse, "Charlie Brown" tree that she put silver and gold decorations on. No lights. The first real, in the living room tree I saw was tonight at YS's house. It was pretty, but it made me realize I missed having a big, real Christmas tree all decked out with ornaments that we've had FOREVER, and with big colored lights on it. But, circumstances change, and it's important to change with them.
On Christmas Eve, I got to church and sat down at a table in the fellowship hall because I'm still not feeling 100% from being sick. I was talking with some people and found out a really cool guy from church died on Sunday. I was bummed. They were snowbirds, and so he died in Florida, but they're coming back this week for the funeral. I can't believe he's gone. He wasn't even that old, and he seemed to be in great health. He and his wife used to come in and eat at Restaurant and tease me in a good natured way. I'm going to miss the guy. I'm sure they would appreciate prayers. You may not know their names, but God does.
While I was sitting there, Pastor came up to me and said, "I need to talk to you for a minute." So, I followed him to his office. I figured he was going to ask me to help lead worship. I'd done so in the past, and I had been in to have a chat with him on Tuesday and he mentioned it. So, he said, "Here's what your parts are, and this is what you do." So, I was like, "Cool, I can handle that." And then he went over behind his desk and brought out a gift bag and said, "The congregation got you a gift." I said, "Really? That was nice. They didn't have to do that." And he said, "But they wanted to." And he set the bag on the table and said, "Take a peek." So, I read the card that was attached to the handle and looked inside and said, "Are you serious?" And I pulled out a Canon Sure Shot digital camera. The card had said, "Trish, Enjoy your trip to the Holy Land. Take lots of pictures! We would be happy to see them. Merry Christmas." Awesome! I had mentioned in passing a good long while ago that I was pumped because YS's boyfriend was going to loan me his digital camera, but Pastor said that they thought I should have my own. Wow. I am so blessed to be in this family of faith. So many of them stopped and chatted with me after the service and asked about life and about everything. They really care about me, and I really care about them. I think and hope this is the way it's supposed to be; what with all this love and stuff. They're over the top with showing me love sometimes, but I'm so grateful.
So, besides having no beef balls, no egg nog, no pickled herring, and no Christmas tree, it was still a pretty good holiday. Somewhat bittersweet with what is going on with Mom and all, but still more good than not. I hope you all had a marvelous, fantastic day, and that you are trusting in the promises of what the future holds. Peace out, y'all.
Oh, p.s. 8 more days or so til we leave for ISRAEL!
Friday, December 14, 2007
Who knew?
Wow, ever since I posted Ma's recipe for the WORLD'S BEST EGGNOG, I have gotten lots and lots of hits to my site. As a matter of fact, if you Googe, "How to make the world's best eggnog," my blog is the number one hit. People are getting ready for the holidays, I guess. I'm serious though, try this recipe. It's delicious. Even if you've had eggnog before and didn't like it, you should try this recipe.
Anyway, the Castle is pretty empty by now. Most of my friends have already left to their homes and or holiday destinations. I got to drive a friend to the airport today, even. He's going to Washington State. I don't blame him for not wanting to drive. Unfortunately, he didn't move his car before he left, and I think the maintenance people are planning to plow the parking lot tomorrow. I guess they will just have to work around his vehicle. I am staying here until Monday though, because I need to read a bunch of stuff and write a two page report on a site in Israel that we are going to visit in only a few short weeks. I can't believe it. I also think I may go Christmas shopping tomorrow. It's so convenient having a mall that is five minutes away. Sweet! City living is pretty cool.
So, anyway, that is my life right now. I'm hoping that some of my graded things will find their way into my mailbox on Monday before I leave so I can know more of how I did. Who knows? I'm out though. I am going to straighten up my room. See ya.
Anyway, the Castle is pretty empty by now. Most of my friends have already left to their homes and or holiday destinations. I got to drive a friend to the airport today, even. He's going to Washington State. I don't blame him for not wanting to drive. Unfortunately, he didn't move his car before he left, and I think the maintenance people are planning to plow the parking lot tomorrow. I guess they will just have to work around his vehicle. I am staying here until Monday though, because I need to read a bunch of stuff and write a two page report on a site in Israel that we are going to visit in only a few short weeks. I can't believe it. I also think I may go Christmas shopping tomorrow. It's so convenient having a mall that is five minutes away. Sweet! City living is pretty cool.
So, anyway, that is my life right now. I'm hoping that some of my graded things will find their way into my mailbox on Monday before I leave so I can know more of how I did. Who knows? I'm out though. I am going to straighten up my room. See ya.
Monday, November 26, 2007
Back from...Vacation?
Well, I got back from "home" last night around 6:30 or so. I carted all my stuff up to my room last night, checked my email and facebook, and laid down to have some "quiet time." However, I fell promptly asleep! That was around 8:00 p.m. I woke up at 8:30 because I was snoring. That was weird, because I'm not a snorer, but I was last night. So, I got up, put my pjs on, did a quick run thru of bedtime procedure, and laid back down. I slept til 8:00 this morning, and even then, I took about a half hour nap after chapel (I didn't have discussion group at that time, so I was free). I was so tired. While I was "home," I didn't sleep that well, and last week was fairly overwhelming anyway. I had about 4 Seminary dreams, with the most recent one last night. It involved a test done on a steeple on sight at the seminary (We don't have a steeple) and a classmate with a SEVERELY bloody nose. It was gross, but kinda funny at the same time.
Last Wednesday, I was at my home church for Thanksgiving Eve worship. After it was over, I was chatting with Pastor and his wife for a little while, ironing out details for Sunday because they were going to be gone and I was set to lead worship. So, after we were done chatting, I went out, got in Neno, and turned the key, but it wouldn't start. I thought, "ARE YOU KIDDING ME!?" Last time my car broke down, it was at the coke shop in the same town. I had to call Pastor that day to see if he could come help me. Well, Wednesday was no different. He tried jump starting my car, but that wasn't the problem. He drove me about 12 miles to a place where Sis could pick me up. I felt bad because it wasn't a nice night outside and everytime my car breaks, he ends up having to help me. Oy veh.
Anyway, Sis came and got me, and I felt bad for dragging her out of the house on a cold, rainy evening. So, after we got home, we talked a while and did some minor prep for Thanksgiving. But, she was tired and went to bed. I, on the other hand, wanting to make up for dragging Sis away, stayed up and cleaned the house like a mad woman.
The next day was Thanksgiving, so I couldn't call my mechanic (a real nice guy I actually TRUST with my car. He is very reasonable and an all around great dude). So, I enjoyed Thanksgiving with Sis, BiL, and BiL's family. None of my family members were there (My other sibs had other things to do, and the nursing home people suggest not taking loved ones home because there are often issues in getting them back to the home). I love BiL's family; I just missed celebrating with my own. Oh well. It was better than the years I got left at home all alone on Thanksgiving and Christmas.
So, the next day was Friday. I called the mechanic early and got his wife. He called later and said he'd go have a gander. BiL let me borrow his van to take my car keys to the mechanic, and so I also went and visited Grandma! She lives at a nursing home in ChurchTown. Granny is 94 years old, is very forgetful, but she is still Grandma. She throws out one-liners all the time and she's just wonderful. I love her so much. She was happy to see me and I was so glad I got to see her. After I had visited for a while, I left. The mechanic called and said we needed to get my car from ChurchTown to MechanicTown (about 15 miles away). So, I had to have it towed. Thankfully, there is a towing place in ChurchTown that is incredibly reasonable. Plus, I think I have some sort of towing insurance, so I'll be turning that in. Mechanic said the problem was the fuel pump. When I drove a Jeep, I had to have that part replaced once and it cost me 19 dollars. This time, including the part, labor, and towing, it cost me about 600 dollars. Yikes. Oh well.
When Sunday rolled around, I had my car back, so thankfully I had no troubles getting to Church and Pastor's "other" church so I could lead worship/preach. For some reason, I was having difficulties with the text for Sunday, and was not at all happy with what I sent Pastor. He replied with some suggestions and comments earlier in the week. It was funny because we chatted a little bit about it on Wednesday and he said he was hoping he didn't sound too critical. I told him that he wasn't, and that I knew what I sent him was less than stellar, so that made him feel better. He seemed kind of surprised that I could tell it was not a good message, but he also seemed grateful because he was afraid that I thought this was "the best one yet!" I said that definitely was NOT the case, and so I reworked it that same day, and he said the revision was much more my style. The last time I preached on Christ the King Sunday was much easier to do though. That was the message I posted here on my blog. "Humpty Dumpty..." Remember?
Anyway... Sunday went pretty well, except when I got into the car after the first service so I could go to the other church, I saw that I had a voicemail. It was Oldest Brother telling me that Grandma was in the hospital and she might die. I called him back and asked what hospital she was in, and made plans to go there when I was done with leading worship. When I got there, she was looking good. I talked with her aide and she said Grandma was doing quite well and was throwing out little one liner jokes and being Grandma. That's the neat thing; even though Grandma is incredibily forgetful and doesn't always know who we are, she is still herself. And really, I think she's better mentally than Ma. It's weird. I don't think Grandma is going to die anytime soon. Although I'm very grateful that she was at the hospital because she had a cardiac episode where her BP was something like 200/100. If she hadn't been there, it could've been lights out. I'm trying to be realistic, considering Granny is 94 years old, but she looks really good, and so I'm going to be optimistic.
Anyway, that was my week/weekend in a nutshell. I had a good time with the nephews and just being at home, but I'm glad to be back at the Castle. I wish I would have had time to see Mom, but the place she is at is far away and with all that happened, I just couldn't make it over there. YS went on Thanksgiving, so that was good. I will get to see her hopefully sooner than later, but life happens. Anyway, I'm going to do some work and go to bed. I'm still so tired. Have a good day.
Last Wednesday, I was at my home church for Thanksgiving Eve worship. After it was over, I was chatting with Pastor and his wife for a little while, ironing out details for Sunday because they were going to be gone and I was set to lead worship. So, after we were done chatting, I went out, got in Neno, and turned the key, but it wouldn't start. I thought, "ARE YOU KIDDING ME!?" Last time my car broke down, it was at the coke shop in the same town. I had to call Pastor that day to see if he could come help me. Well, Wednesday was no different. He tried jump starting my car, but that wasn't the problem. He drove me about 12 miles to a place where Sis could pick me up. I felt bad because it wasn't a nice night outside and everytime my car breaks, he ends up having to help me. Oy veh.
Anyway, Sis came and got me, and I felt bad for dragging her out of the house on a cold, rainy evening. So, after we got home, we talked a while and did some minor prep for Thanksgiving. But, she was tired and went to bed. I, on the other hand, wanting to make up for dragging Sis away, stayed up and cleaned the house like a mad woman.
The next day was Thanksgiving, so I couldn't call my mechanic (a real nice guy I actually TRUST with my car. He is very reasonable and an all around great dude). So, I enjoyed Thanksgiving with Sis, BiL, and BiL's family. None of my family members were there (My other sibs had other things to do, and the nursing home people suggest not taking loved ones home because there are often issues in getting them back to the home). I love BiL's family; I just missed celebrating with my own. Oh well. It was better than the years I got left at home all alone on Thanksgiving and Christmas.
So, the next day was Friday. I called the mechanic early and got his wife. He called later and said he'd go have a gander. BiL let me borrow his van to take my car keys to the mechanic, and so I also went and visited Grandma! She lives at a nursing home in ChurchTown. Granny is 94 years old, is very forgetful, but she is still Grandma. She throws out one-liners all the time and she's just wonderful. I love her so much. She was happy to see me and I was so glad I got to see her. After I had visited for a while, I left. The mechanic called and said we needed to get my car from ChurchTown to MechanicTown (about 15 miles away). So, I had to have it towed. Thankfully, there is a towing place in ChurchTown that is incredibly reasonable. Plus, I think I have some sort of towing insurance, so I'll be turning that in. Mechanic said the problem was the fuel pump. When I drove a Jeep, I had to have that part replaced once and it cost me 19 dollars. This time, including the part, labor, and towing, it cost me about 600 dollars. Yikes. Oh well.
When Sunday rolled around, I had my car back, so thankfully I had no troubles getting to Church and Pastor's "other" church so I could lead worship/preach. For some reason, I was having difficulties with the text for Sunday, and was not at all happy with what I sent Pastor. He replied with some suggestions and comments earlier in the week. It was funny because we chatted a little bit about it on Wednesday and he said he was hoping he didn't sound too critical. I told him that he wasn't, and that I knew what I sent him was less than stellar, so that made him feel better. He seemed kind of surprised that I could tell it was not a good message, but he also seemed grateful because he was afraid that I thought this was "the best one yet!" I said that definitely was NOT the case, and so I reworked it that same day, and he said the revision was much more my style. The last time I preached on Christ the King Sunday was much easier to do though. That was the message I posted here on my blog. "Humpty Dumpty..." Remember?
Anyway... Sunday went pretty well, except when I got into the car after the first service so I could go to the other church, I saw that I had a voicemail. It was Oldest Brother telling me that Grandma was in the hospital and she might die. I called him back and asked what hospital she was in, and made plans to go there when I was done with leading worship. When I got there, she was looking good. I talked with her aide and she said Grandma was doing quite well and was throwing out little one liner jokes and being Grandma. That's the neat thing; even though Grandma is incredibily forgetful and doesn't always know who we are, she is still herself. And really, I think she's better mentally than Ma. It's weird. I don't think Grandma is going to die anytime soon. Although I'm very grateful that she was at the hospital because she had a cardiac episode where her BP was something like 200/100. If she hadn't been there, it could've been lights out. I'm trying to be realistic, considering Granny is 94 years old, but she looks really good, and so I'm going to be optimistic.
Anyway, that was my week/weekend in a nutshell. I had a good time with the nephews and just being at home, but I'm glad to be back at the Castle. I wish I would have had time to see Mom, but the place she is at is far away and with all that happened, I just couldn't make it over there. YS went on Thanksgiving, so that was good. I will get to see her hopefully sooner than later, but life happens. Anyway, I'm going to do some work and go to bed. I'm still so tired. Have a good day.
Friday, November 23, 2007
Thanksgiving
Well, Thanksgiving is over. I'm really thankful for a lot, but unfortunately, I've not been intentional thus far about thinking on and reflecting about what it is I am grateful for. Despite all the things that I wish were not a part of life in general, and my life in particular, I have a good life.
I have four siblings whom I love, even if I don't "like" all four of them sometimes. Two of my sibs have beautiful, talented, smart, and loving children who I feel blessed to have them call me Aunt. I am grateful for the twenty or so years I had with my mother before she began the slide into dementia, and really, I was about 23 or so by the time it really started affecting her badly. I'm also grateful for having known, at some point in my life, the wonderful reality of having two loving parents who did a lot to protect and care for me.
People in my life have also been a huge source of blessing. The many friends and acquaintances I have made are just phenomenal. I have friends I have known for twenty years, and friends I have known for three months, and everything in between. Their companionship on this road through life has meant so much to me that I am awestruck by the fact that people are willing to be open enough to be my friend, and who allow me to be who I am with them. Friendship can be a give and take, and it's just amazing how much my friends give me. Thanks y'all. I wub ya!
I also feel blessed to have had the educational opportunities I have had. I am a college graduate, and am now being educated at the graduate level to hopefully do something I am discerning I am called to do. Not everyone has the time or resources to do these things, and I am grateful for the gift of frugality, and for the help I've been given to help me get to the place I am.
Adventures are a fairly regular piece of my life. I have had the exhilarating, awesome, breath-taking experience of jumping out of a perfectly good airplane, not once, but TWICE, AND have lived to tell about it. I am easily amused and can have fun doing a wide range of activities.
And, last for this post, but certainly not least, I am incredibly grateful for the local church of which I am a member, and for the Church as a whole. While I may not like all the views of some church bodies, and even some people of "my" church, I still appreciate the fact that they are beloved children of God, and thus, we are all united into the family of faith. I am grateful that my home church has been such a nurturing and supportive environment, and I'm grateful that the ELCA has practices and policies in place that allow me to use my gifts to serve Jesus by serving people, publicly and privately. I am blessed.
There is much else for which I am grateful, but this post is getting long. I feel like I'm giving an Oscar speech or something. Ha. I hope that you all have had opportunity to reflect on those things for which you are thankful, and that you find that these things are gifts we are blessed to have from God. Have a great day.
I have four siblings whom I love, even if I don't "like" all four of them sometimes. Two of my sibs have beautiful, talented, smart, and loving children who I feel blessed to have them call me Aunt. I am grateful for the twenty or so years I had with my mother before she began the slide into dementia, and really, I was about 23 or so by the time it really started affecting her badly. I'm also grateful for having known, at some point in my life, the wonderful reality of having two loving parents who did a lot to protect and care for me.
People in my life have also been a huge source of blessing. The many friends and acquaintances I have made are just phenomenal. I have friends I have known for twenty years, and friends I have known for three months, and everything in between. Their companionship on this road through life has meant so much to me that I am awestruck by the fact that people are willing to be open enough to be my friend, and who allow me to be who I am with them. Friendship can be a give and take, and it's just amazing how much my friends give me. Thanks y'all. I wub ya!
I also feel blessed to have had the educational opportunities I have had. I am a college graduate, and am now being educated at the graduate level to hopefully do something I am discerning I am called to do. Not everyone has the time or resources to do these things, and I am grateful for the gift of frugality, and for the help I've been given to help me get to the place I am.
Adventures are a fairly regular piece of my life. I have had the exhilarating, awesome, breath-taking experience of jumping out of a perfectly good airplane, not once, but TWICE, AND have lived to tell about it. I am easily amused and can have fun doing a wide range of activities.
And, last for this post, but certainly not least, I am incredibly grateful for the local church of which I am a member, and for the Church as a whole. While I may not like all the views of some church bodies, and even some people of "my" church, I still appreciate the fact that they are beloved children of God, and thus, we are all united into the family of faith. I am grateful that my home church has been such a nurturing and supportive environment, and I'm grateful that the ELCA has practices and policies in place that allow me to use my gifts to serve Jesus by serving people, publicly and privately. I am blessed.
There is much else for which I am grateful, but this post is getting long. I feel like I'm giving an Oscar speech or something. Ha. I hope that you all have had opportunity to reflect on those things for which you are thankful, and that you find that these things are gifts we are blessed to have from God. Have a great day.
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
Thanksgiving Break
Well... Today was the last day of classes for the week because we are now on Thanksgiving break. I did a bunch of work before today, which is nice, because my week can be a little more relaxed now. I did actually bring some work "home" with me, and I intend to do it, but I'm cool with whatever happens.
I am a horrid, horrid person. I have been so darn tired lately that I have been skipping chapel a bit lately. And, I skipped a class today, too. Maybe after relaxing this week, I'll be back on my "A" game.
I met with a senior the other evening to plan for our day of chapel leading. Our day is going to be Thursday, December 6th. I think I'm pretty much ready. I found some information on the commemoration of Nicholas, Bishop of Myra that I can read on that day, and I have the Prayer of the Day figured out, and I have already written the Prayers of the People. So, it's pretty much a, "show up for the other planning meeting, practice a time or two, and then show up on our day" thing. I'm fairly excited. Not nervous right now, so hopefully that stays true.
I'm leading worship this Sunday. I wasn't real happy with the sermon I sent off to Pastor for approval, and so I wasn't surprised when he gave me some suggestions. So, I'll be reworking it later. It's cool though, I can take constructive criticism. Yup.
Anyway, I got "home" tonight and Sunscreen was eating some baby food. He gave me big smiles when I came in. That kid is SO flippin' adorable. And then Howard came around the corner and was running in circles because that is what he does when he's excited. He gave me a big hug and a pat on the back and he said, "Awww." That's what he does when he hugs: hug, pat, Aww. These kids are so awesome, and I'm so thankful for them.
And, that's pretty much all I wanted to say right now. I'm just chilling here at Sis and BiL's house. Sis is making dinner for BiL's family this year, and I'm included in on it. My family won't be coming. So, it's kinda sad that YS and YSB won't be here, and that Older Brother the Younger and his wife and son aren't coming either, but such is life and the changes it brings. I have tentative plans to visit Ma and Grandma in their respective nursing homes, and hopefully I can get someone to come with me. We'll just have to see. I hope you all have a safe and happy Thanksgiving. Remember, don't drive when you're about ready to go into a Turkey Coma. It's not safe. :) Later.
I am a horrid, horrid person. I have been so darn tired lately that I have been skipping chapel a bit lately. And, I skipped a class today, too. Maybe after relaxing this week, I'll be back on my "A" game.
I met with a senior the other evening to plan for our day of chapel leading. Our day is going to be Thursday, December 6th. I think I'm pretty much ready. I found some information on the commemoration of Nicholas, Bishop of Myra that I can read on that day, and I have the Prayer of the Day figured out, and I have already written the Prayers of the People. So, it's pretty much a, "show up for the other planning meeting, practice a time or two, and then show up on our day" thing. I'm fairly excited. Not nervous right now, so hopefully that stays true.
I'm leading worship this Sunday. I wasn't real happy with the sermon I sent off to Pastor for approval, and so I wasn't surprised when he gave me some suggestions. So, I'll be reworking it later. It's cool though, I can take constructive criticism. Yup.
Anyway, I got "home" tonight and Sunscreen was eating some baby food. He gave me big smiles when I came in. That kid is SO flippin' adorable. And then Howard came around the corner and was running in circles because that is what he does when he's excited. He gave me a big hug and a pat on the back and he said, "Awww." That's what he does when he hugs: hug, pat, Aww. These kids are so awesome, and I'm so thankful for them.
And, that's pretty much all I wanted to say right now. I'm just chilling here at Sis and BiL's house. Sis is making dinner for BiL's family this year, and I'm included in on it. My family won't be coming. So, it's kinda sad that YS and YSB won't be here, and that Older Brother the Younger and his wife and son aren't coming either, but such is life and the changes it brings. I have tentative plans to visit Ma and Grandma in their respective nursing homes, and hopefully I can get someone to come with me. We'll just have to see. I hope you all have a safe and happy Thanksgiving. Remember, don't drive when you're about ready to go into a Turkey Coma. It's not safe. :) Later.
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Tomorrow is All Saint's Day.
I know I just posted an obnoxiously happy post, but now I'm going to do a little bit of reflecting.
Tomorrow is All Saint's Day; a day in which the Church celebrates the lives of the saints triumphant. I believe All Saint's Day is a good day. However, it invites reflection. This past year, a few people I loved dearly died. There was Dick in April, as well as "Dorothy," and there was Karen in May. Other people I knew died this year, but those three were the saddest for me. The other people have exceeding worth as well; I don't want to understate their worth. But sometimes in life, we bond with people more cohesively or quickly.
Like "Dorothy." I only knew her for about a month or two, tops. But there was just something special about her. I met her when she was a patient where I did CPE. She reminded me of Ma. They were so similar that I think I projected some things on to her. But she liked me, and I liked her, and when she died, the family was very gracious to me in letting me know when the services were and where. I still speak with her sister sometimes. "Dorothy" is just one example of how we are graced with wonderful people, even if only for a short time.
Karen died in May. She was a good friend of Ma's. Karen used to ask me to come help her get decorations out of her attic. It was tiresome work, but I enjoyed helping her. Doing physical things to help people makes me happy. Plus, the ladder into the attic was somewhat precarious, so I was glad to go up there instead of her. She also had me house and dog sit sometimes, and I enjoyed that. Being trusted, even as a young adult meant a lot to me. Karen also was so proud and supportive of me in my discernment to ministry. She even came to hear me preach one Sunday, despite the fact she was devoutly Catholic. I felt bad for not getting to see her like I said I would (car troubles occurred the weekend I was home and planned to visit), but I am confident she would be gracious to me about that.
And Dick died in April. Dick was such an awesome guy. He was the man Ma dated for a few years. I met him at church one Sunday because his daughters started attending my church after their mother died. I was the lay leader and one of his daughters came up to me and said, "You did a nice job reading, Trisha!" And Dick walked by like a schoolboy, almost because Ma was standing by me. It was cute. Finally, he asked her out, and they spent a few years together. Dick didn't just "put up" with me; he was a strong supporter of me, but he treated me like an adult. He helped me figure things out around the house, and he was always willing to help me. Dick was just a special, special man. I wasn't resentful toward him when he stopped coming around, because I believe it was too hurtful for him to see my mom's decline. He was fantastic to his wife when she was ill, and it would have been selfish of us to expect him to do the same for Ma. His death, despite the fact he had moved on, was so incredibly painful. Dick had been like a dad to me, and I really loved that man. But, I'm confident in God's mercy toward him, and toward the other two as well.
This post really doesn't need to be posted public, but I am so grateful for their lives, that I figured I would share a bit about them on this All Saint's Eve. And so I say, "For all the Saints who now rest from their labors-Thanks be to God!"
Tomorrow is All Saint's Day; a day in which the Church celebrates the lives of the saints triumphant. I believe All Saint's Day is a good day. However, it invites reflection. This past year, a few people I loved dearly died. There was Dick in April, as well as "Dorothy," and there was Karen in May. Other people I knew died this year, but those three were the saddest for me. The other people have exceeding worth as well; I don't want to understate their worth. But sometimes in life, we bond with people more cohesively or quickly.
Like "Dorothy." I only knew her for about a month or two, tops. But there was just something special about her. I met her when she was a patient where I did CPE. She reminded me of Ma. They were so similar that I think I projected some things on to her. But she liked me, and I liked her, and when she died, the family was very gracious to me in letting me know when the services were and where. I still speak with her sister sometimes. "Dorothy" is just one example of how we are graced with wonderful people, even if only for a short time.
Karen died in May. She was a good friend of Ma's. Karen used to ask me to come help her get decorations out of her attic. It was tiresome work, but I enjoyed helping her. Doing physical things to help people makes me happy. Plus, the ladder into the attic was somewhat precarious, so I was glad to go up there instead of her. She also had me house and dog sit sometimes, and I enjoyed that. Being trusted, even as a young adult meant a lot to me. Karen also was so proud and supportive of me in my discernment to ministry. She even came to hear me preach one Sunday, despite the fact she was devoutly Catholic. I felt bad for not getting to see her like I said I would (car troubles occurred the weekend I was home and planned to visit), but I am confident she would be gracious to me about that.
And Dick died in April. Dick was such an awesome guy. He was the man Ma dated for a few years. I met him at church one Sunday because his daughters started attending my church after their mother died. I was the lay leader and one of his daughters came up to me and said, "You did a nice job reading, Trisha!" And Dick walked by like a schoolboy, almost because Ma was standing by me. It was cute. Finally, he asked her out, and they spent a few years together. Dick didn't just "put up" with me; he was a strong supporter of me, but he treated me like an adult. He helped me figure things out around the house, and he was always willing to help me. Dick was just a special, special man. I wasn't resentful toward him when he stopped coming around, because I believe it was too hurtful for him to see my mom's decline. He was fantastic to his wife when she was ill, and it would have been selfish of us to expect him to do the same for Ma. His death, despite the fact he had moved on, was so incredibly painful. Dick had been like a dad to me, and I really loved that man. But, I'm confident in God's mercy toward him, and toward the other two as well.
This post really doesn't need to be posted public, but I am so grateful for their lives, that I figured I would share a bit about them on this All Saint's Eve. And so I say, "For all the Saints who now rest from their labors-Thanks be to God!"
Happy Halloween!
Today is Halloween! AND I'M NOT AT WORK!!!!!
This is one of the only times in the past SEVERAL years where I have not had to work on Halloween. I'm thrilled. And what's better is that Seminary has invited the children on campus to come trick-or-treating, EVEN to the dorm rooms! We all received paper pumpkins in our mailboxes to put on our doors if we have goodies for the children. You had BETTER believe I posted mine up. I really like seeing the fun that the kids have dressing up. Heck, I like seeing the fun that the parents have. Some of them have even dressed up along with their kids. It's fun.
My first trick-or-treater was a 2 1/2 year old daughter of a classmate. She and Mama were both ladybugs. It was adorable.
I hear some more coming as I type this. I think I'm more excited than the kids!
Today is ALSO REFORMATION DAY! Yeehaw! It's an all around good day. So, Happy Reforming and Happy Eating Lots of Candy! Wee!
This is one of the only times in the past SEVERAL years where I have not had to work on Halloween. I'm thrilled. And what's better is that Seminary has invited the children on campus to come trick-or-treating, EVEN to the dorm rooms! We all received paper pumpkins in our mailboxes to put on our doors if we have goodies for the children. You had BETTER believe I posted mine up. I really like seeing the fun that the kids have dressing up. Heck, I like seeing the fun that the parents have. Some of them have even dressed up along with their kids. It's fun.
My first trick-or-treater was a 2 1/2 year old daughter of a classmate. She and Mama were both ladybugs. It was adorable.
I hear some more coming as I type this. I think I'm more excited than the kids!
Today is ALSO REFORMATION DAY! Yeehaw! It's an all around good day. So, Happy Reforming and Happy Eating Lots of Candy! Wee!
Wednesday, February 14, 2007
Who Knew?
Site Meter is an interesting thing. I have discovered that many people who do not know me or about my blog have found my blog by doing some sort of search for the musical piece, "A walk in the Black Forest" by Horst Jankowski. I didn't know that that song was so popular. I blogged a good long while ago about this song because I was reminiscing or something. I could find the post and link to it, but I'm too lazy. Forgive me.
In other news, today is Valentine's Day. Woopidy-Doo! Not. I've never been a fan of this holiday, except for the fact that I can go to the store tomorrow and buy a big box of chocolates in a heart shape for MYSELF at a discount! Yay! Although I won't. But, the possibility is there, nonetheless. And now, I must go because I need to write a verbatim. See ya later.
In other news, today is Valentine's Day. Woopidy-Doo! Not. I've never been a fan of this holiday, except for the fact that I can go to the store tomorrow and buy a big box of chocolates in a heart shape for MYSELF at a discount! Yay! Although I won't. But, the possibility is there, nonetheless. And now, I must go because I need to write a verbatim. See ya later.
Friday, January 05, 2007
My 201st post!
I know I'm not a *member* of RevGalBlogPals, but they have this thing called "Friday Five." It is a survey/meme type thing that changes every Friday. I felt like doing this week's. Here goes:
1. "It's my party and I'll [blank] if I want to..."
Favorite way to celebrate your birthday (dinner with family? party with friends? a day in solitude?)
I like hanging out with friends and family. I have ever only had one birthday *party* so to speak and it was a flop, really. But, usually, Sis and BiL make me a special dinner and we all hang out. Although, it never seems to fail that something bad happens to me on my birthday... Starting on my 17th birthday when I was pulled over and given a city citation for speeding...
2. "You say it's your birthday... it's my birthday too, yeah..."
Do you share your birthday with someone famous? (Click here to find out!)
You bet! Martin Luther and I share the same birthday. I didn't know any of the other people, though...
3. "Lordy Lordy look who's forty..."
Milestone birthdays:
a) just like any other birthday--they're just numbers, people.
b) a good opportunity to look back/take stock
c) enjoy the black balloons--I'll be hiding under a pile of coats until the day is over
d) some combination of the above, or something else entirely.
While I would like to say "they're just numbers," honestly, birthdays are ways we can look at our lives and see where we are, how far we've come, and where we plan to go next. But it's weird... When I was younger, I thought 24 was old. Now I still feel like a kid.
4. "Happy birthday, dear... Customer..."
Have you ever been sung to in a restaurant? Fun or cringe-worthy?
To my recollection, I've never been sung to in a restaurant. I'd probably cringe though... No-strike that-I'd probably turn beet red and explode little pieces of Trish all over the walls from embarassment... :)
5. "Take my birthday--please"
Tell me one advantage and one disadvantage about your particular birthday (e.g. birthday in the summer--never had to go to school; birthday near Christmas--the dreaded joint presents). This could also simply be something you like/dislike about your birthday (e.g. I like sharing a birthday with my best friend, etc.).
My birthday is usually the day before Veteran's Day. Therefore, I occasionally had my birthday off from school. The best though, was the fact that I had the day AFTER my 21st birthday off from college due to the holiday. Too bad I didn't get completely and totally inebriated... Ruined opportunity, right there.
Hope you enjoyed. Have a good one.
1. "It's my party and I'll [blank] if I want to..."
Favorite way to celebrate your birthday (dinner with family? party with friends? a day in solitude?)
I like hanging out with friends and family. I have ever only had one birthday *party* so to speak and it was a flop, really. But, usually, Sis and BiL make me a special dinner and we all hang out. Although, it never seems to fail that something bad happens to me on my birthday... Starting on my 17th birthday when I was pulled over and given a city citation for speeding...
2. "You say it's your birthday... it's my birthday too, yeah..."
Do you share your birthday with someone famous? (Click here to find out!)
You bet! Martin Luther and I share the same birthday. I didn't know any of the other people, though...
3. "Lordy Lordy look who's forty..."
Milestone birthdays:
a) just like any other birthday--they're just numbers, people.
b) a good opportunity to look back/take stock
c) enjoy the black balloons--I'll be hiding under a pile of coats until the day is over
d) some combination of the above, or something else entirely.
While I would like to say "they're just numbers," honestly, birthdays are ways we can look at our lives and see where we are, how far we've come, and where we plan to go next. But it's weird... When I was younger, I thought 24 was old. Now I still feel like a kid.
4. "Happy birthday, dear... Customer..."
Have you ever been sung to in a restaurant? Fun or cringe-worthy?
To my recollection, I've never been sung to in a restaurant. I'd probably cringe though... No-strike that-I'd probably turn beet red and explode little pieces of Trish all over the walls from embarassment... :)
5. "Take my birthday--please"
Tell me one advantage and one disadvantage about your particular birthday (e.g. birthday in the summer--never had to go to school; birthday near Christmas--the dreaded joint presents). This could also simply be something you like/dislike about your birthday (e.g. I like sharing a birthday with my best friend, etc.).
My birthday is usually the day before Veteran's Day. Therefore, I occasionally had my birthday off from school. The best though, was the fact that I had the day AFTER my 21st birthday off from college due to the holiday. Too bad I didn't get completely and totally inebriated... Ruined opportunity, right there.
Hope you enjoyed. Have a good one.
Monday, December 25, 2006
Smiles
I hope you all had a wonderful and blessed Christmas. I did, although my family isn't done celebrating yet. We're having our family get together on Thursday because one of my brothers works at a prison. Prisons don't close for the holidays, and Thursday is one of his days off. So, the family will be coming here to celebrate. I'm excited.
Today was not completely left to the ordinary, though. Sis and BiL had me, younger sis (YS) and YS's boyfriend (YSB) over this early afternoon so we could do our gift exchange. In my family, for the past several years, we've drawn names and only had to buy for our person, Mom, Grandma, and the kids still in high school or younger. But, we sisters like to have a private gift exchange just because we're all really close. I got a lot of great stuff that will come in handy when I move to my dorm room. I went in with YS and got Sis and BiL a digital camcorder so they can videotape Howard as he grows. I'm excited about that. Sis and I went in together and got YS a massage table because she is going to school to become a massage therapist and hasn't been able to find the money to purchase the table yet. I'm excited about that gift, too.
Then tonight, Mom came over to Sis and BiL's house and Mom, Sis, BiL, Howard, and I trekked across town to BiL's sister's house where we had Christmas dinner. That family is so welcoming that I am just continually amazed by them. I was sitting on one of the couches watching a movie on T.V. with them when BiL's sister came up to me and asked if I'd like to share the prayer. (Remember, I shared the Thanksgiving prayer last month?) So, I said, "Sure, I can do that." So, I got up, walked into the kitchen and asked if everyone was ready. They were, and so I said the prayer. Sis always expresses her surprise when we're alone at my ability to say "good" prayers off the cuff. She says, "I guess you probably are going into the right field." This always makes me laugh. Anyway, that's about all I have to say now. Down below is basically what I said this evening (remembering, again, that these prayers are not rehearsed prior to the delivery of them, and so there is NO way I could remember them verbatim). Have a good rest of your Christmas season, and stay safe if you're on the road.
Christmas Prayer 12-25-06
Holy God, we give You thanks this day for the many gifts we have received.
We pray especially in thanksgiving for the gift of your Son Jesus Christ.
While we know we can never repay You for Your boundless generosity,
we pray that our lives might reflect thanks and praise
knowing that every good gift we receive is from Your hand.
Help us to live lives of gratitude and service,
through Your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen
Today was not completely left to the ordinary, though. Sis and BiL had me, younger sis (YS) and YS's boyfriend (YSB) over this early afternoon so we could do our gift exchange. In my family, for the past several years, we've drawn names and only had to buy for our person, Mom, Grandma, and the kids still in high school or younger. But, we sisters like to have a private gift exchange just because we're all really close. I got a lot of great stuff that will come in handy when I move to my dorm room. I went in with YS and got Sis and BiL a digital camcorder so they can videotape Howard as he grows. I'm excited about that. Sis and I went in together and got YS a massage table because she is going to school to become a massage therapist and hasn't been able to find the money to purchase the table yet. I'm excited about that gift, too.
Then tonight, Mom came over to Sis and BiL's house and Mom, Sis, BiL, Howard, and I trekked across town to BiL's sister's house where we had Christmas dinner. That family is so welcoming that I am just continually amazed by them. I was sitting on one of the couches watching a movie on T.V. with them when BiL's sister came up to me and asked if I'd like to share the prayer. (Remember, I shared the Thanksgiving prayer last month?) So, I said, "Sure, I can do that." So, I got up, walked into the kitchen and asked if everyone was ready. They were, and so I said the prayer. Sis always expresses her surprise when we're alone at my ability to say "good" prayers off the cuff. She says, "I guess you probably are going into the right field." This always makes me laugh. Anyway, that's about all I have to say now. Down below is basically what I said this evening (remembering, again, that these prayers are not rehearsed prior to the delivery of them, and so there is NO way I could remember them verbatim). Have a good rest of your Christmas season, and stay safe if you're on the road.
Christmas Prayer 12-25-06
Holy God, we give You thanks this day for the many gifts we have received.
We pray especially in thanksgiving for the gift of your Son Jesus Christ.
While we know we can never repay You for Your boundless generosity,
we pray that our lives might reflect thanks and praise
knowing that every good gift we receive is from Your hand.
Help us to live lives of gratitude and service,
through Your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen
Sunday, December 24, 2006
Merry Christmas!
Merry Christmas, everyone! I know it's not officially Christmas for another few hours, but I plan on going to bed here shortly. I'm tired. This morning, I got to be the assisting minister again, and it went well. I'm getting better at it, I think. Then tonight, at our annual candle light Christmas Eve worship, I got to be the lay leader again. It went well again tonight. I even got compliments. But, Christmas Eve worship is really awesome. I think that Pastor does a really good job of planning and executing the worship service.
Now, I'm finishing up my preparations for next Sunday. I printed up the bulletin, and now I have to go on Tuesday to copy it a whole bunch of times. It's my first time doing that part of preparing, but I gotta learn sometime.
Oh, yeah, and a funny little story... This morning in the sermon, Pastor spoke about how next Sunday is going to be the last time I lead worship before going off to study at Seminary. So then, after worship, we walked to the back while finishing the closing hymn so that we could shake hands. Actually, he had to leave to go to OC (other church) and I stayed to shake hands. But, two of the ushers said, "We're going to MISS you!" And I laughed because one is a mid-teenage boy, and I don't really know how old the other one is. He's probably a teenager too, but I don't know how old. And then they each gave me a hug and I laughed, because I figured they wouldn't care one way or the other. And the one whose age I don't know is fairly new to our congregation because he and his mom just moved here from Arizona or something. His grandparents are longtime members, though. So, it was just nice to hear that people don't hate when I help lead worship. :)
And, one last bit of news... Tonight, after the worship service, Pastor and I went back to the makeshift sacristy (the real one is really cold this time of year, so we use the storage room) to take our albs off. He asked me about a definite move date and I told him probably January 14th, after worship, if that's allowed. He said, "If you don't mind, I'd like to have that alb there cleaned up so that I can give it to you. It seems to fit you well." So, I thought that was SO nice. It was Pastor's first alb, and he has other ones now and doesn't need this one. I thought that was cool. Pastor's a cool guy and I'm sure glad that he is our pastor. If we had a minister who didn't care, I doubt I would be where I am today. Thanks be to God for raising up dedicated, encouraging, and faithful leaders for the Church!
Now, I'm finishing up my preparations for next Sunday. I printed up the bulletin, and now I have to go on Tuesday to copy it a whole bunch of times. It's my first time doing that part of preparing, but I gotta learn sometime.
Oh, yeah, and a funny little story... This morning in the sermon, Pastor spoke about how next Sunday is going to be the last time I lead worship before going off to study at Seminary. So then, after worship, we walked to the back while finishing the closing hymn so that we could shake hands. Actually, he had to leave to go to OC (other church) and I stayed to shake hands. But, two of the ushers said, "We're going to MISS you!" And I laughed because one is a mid-teenage boy, and I don't really know how old the other one is. He's probably a teenager too, but I don't know how old. And then they each gave me a hug and I laughed, because I figured they wouldn't care one way or the other. And the one whose age I don't know is fairly new to our congregation because he and his mom just moved here from Arizona or something. His grandparents are longtime members, though. So, it was just nice to hear that people don't hate when I help lead worship. :)
And, one last bit of news... Tonight, after the worship service, Pastor and I went back to the makeshift sacristy (the real one is really cold this time of year, so we use the storage room) to take our albs off. He asked me about a definite move date and I told him probably January 14th, after worship, if that's allowed. He said, "If you don't mind, I'd like to have that alb there cleaned up so that I can give it to you. It seems to fit you well." So, I thought that was SO nice. It was Pastor's first alb, and he has other ones now and doesn't need this one. I thought that was cool. Pastor's a cool guy and I'm sure glad that he is our pastor. If we had a minister who didn't care, I doubt I would be where I am today. Thanks be to God for raising up dedicated, encouraging, and faithful leaders for the Church!
Saturday, December 23, 2006
I guess we're bad, bad people for celebrating Christmas
I was working on my message for next Sunday and was trying to find some information on a hymn. In my searches on the Internet, I stumbled across a website that says "Christmas is spiritual adultery... God is highly offended at your (Christmas celebraters) whorish ways." Yikes... Who knew that praising and thanking God for the wonderful and irreplaceable gift of Jesus Christ was "whorish?" I guess you can call me Sluticia, then, because Christmas is special to me.
Wednesday, December 20, 2006
Oh yeah!
Hehe... This past Sunday, some gal pals from high school and I got together for our annual Christmas celebration. In years past, we have gotten together on New Year's Day, but as we grow, our schedules make it so that we have to get together at different times because our schedules are different.
For our celebration, we buy one gift, and then when we get there, we devise a system of finding who gets what gift. This year, the gift I received was this set from Starbucks. It's got three layers. In each layer is a bag of flavored coffee beans, and then some form of chocolate that compliments the flavor of coffee. While I'm not that big of a coffee drinker, I'm still very excited because I can lure people into my dorm room with gourmet coffee!! I just need a coffeepot now, I suppose. But, my sister in law got me this thing for graduation that froths milk up in a matter of seconds, so that could be a good thing for me to put in the coffee. Anyway, I'm excited, and that's the main thing. Plus, Sunday was really cool. I love getting together with my friends. It's so neat to see the different paths we are all taking, and the different places we find ourselves. Some are married, some are engaged, one has what I consider to be a budding romance, and then some (by some, I mean me) are single. :) And we are all doing different things with our lives, and it's just so fun to come together and have some time and just catch up and have fun and play board games and eat Jacki's mom's cookies! Haha. And that's that. It was good.
For our celebration, we buy one gift, and then when we get there, we devise a system of finding who gets what gift. This year, the gift I received was this set from Starbucks. It's got three layers. In each layer is a bag of flavored coffee beans, and then some form of chocolate that compliments the flavor of coffee. While I'm not that big of a coffee drinker, I'm still very excited because I can lure people into my dorm room with gourmet coffee!! I just need a coffeepot now, I suppose. But, my sister in law got me this thing for graduation that froths milk up in a matter of seconds, so that could be a good thing for me to put in the coffee. Anyway, I'm excited, and that's the main thing. Plus, Sunday was really cool. I love getting together with my friends. It's so neat to see the different paths we are all taking, and the different places we find ourselves. Some are married, some are engaged, one has what I consider to be a budding romance, and then some (by some, I mean me) are single. :) And we are all doing different things with our lives, and it's just so fun to come together and have some time and just catch up and have fun and play board games and eat Jacki's mom's cookies! Haha. And that's that. It was good.
Saturday, December 16, 2006
Duty Calls ;)
Well, RuthRe tagged me, and I can't let her down, so here we go....
1. Egg Nog or Hot Chocolate?
Egg Nog! My mom makes THE best egg nog on the face of the earth. Yeah for frothy goodness.
2. Does Santa wrap presents or just sit them under the tree? So long as I'm not the one wrapping them, it's all good...
3. Colored lights on tree/house or white?
I'm a big fan of the big colored lights. We have always used them, and probably always will. Although, my sister and her boyfriend have a tree with gold lights and silver, purple, and blue ornaments. It all goes very well together.
4. Do you hang mistletoe?
No. We only ever have family over usually, and who wants to kiss them?
5. When do you put your decorations up?
Well.... I'm bad. I asked Ma to postpone decorating this year because we have too much stuff in the living room anyway. So, I didn't want the house to be ALL that much more crowded for my graduation party today. SO, we need to get crackin' now that it's all over with.
6. What is your favorite holiday dish?
Stuffing, when it's done right.
7. Favorite Holiday memory as a child?
You all are going to think I had the worst parents in the world, but it's a fun story... When I was probably about 5 or 6 and my little sister was 4 or 5, we celebrated Christmas at my Grandma's house. Dad gave each of us a teeny weeny little bit of champaign (I'm talking like 2 swallows for a normal person), and I had about 2 sips of it and was totally drunk. So, the best part of the story was that little Sis and I played drunken "Guess Who" (remember that game where you tried to find out which card person the other player had?) on the playroom floor at Granny's. I was very dizzy, but it was fun.
8. When and how did you learn the truth about Santa?
I believed in Santa for a long time because we always celebrated Christmas on Christmas Eve. Mom would take us around in the car to look at Christmas lights while Santa was delivering gifts. Well, we were out in the country and I guess some guy had dressed up as Santa because there he was looking into a window. I could have sworn there were reindeer on the roof, too...
9. Do you open a gift on Christmas Eve?
Up until recently, we opened all of our gifts on Christmas Eve. Now we do it whenever we can all get together.
10. How do you decorate your Christmas Tree?
Handmade school decorations, big colored lights, glass colored globes.. The usual fare.
11. Snow! Love it or Dread it?
Dread! As a commuter for the past 4 years, I really started to despise the stuff, although every time it snows pretty, I think of a poem that I might share at some other point.
12. Can you ice skate?
Never tried.
13. Do you remember your favorite gift?
Either my Teddy Ruxpin or my Charlie McCarthy Ventriloquist doll that I BEGGED for.
14. What’s the most important thing about the Holidays for you?
Being with my friends and family, going to church, and feeling that wonderful warmth of knowing it's not about us.
15. What is your favorite Holiday Dessert?
Peanut Clusters or Fudge!
16. What is your favorite holiday tradition?
Christmas Eve worship (for the past several years) and going to Sis's house for Christmas morning breakfast/brunch.
17. What tops your tree?
A classy little angel. It's cute.
18.Which do you prefer giving or receiving?
Giving, even despite my frugal tendencies. I like to give.
19. What is your favorite Christmas Song?
O Holy Night
20. Candy Canes! Yuck or Yum?
Yuck. No thanks; not even the fruit flavored ones.
I tag Inheritor of Heaven, Jae, and Jacki, if they are so inclined...
1. Egg Nog or Hot Chocolate?
Egg Nog! My mom makes THE best egg nog on the face of the earth. Yeah for frothy goodness.
2. Does Santa wrap presents or just sit them under the tree? So long as I'm not the one wrapping them, it's all good...
3. Colored lights on tree/house or white?
I'm a big fan of the big colored lights. We have always used them, and probably always will. Although, my sister and her boyfriend have a tree with gold lights and silver, purple, and blue ornaments. It all goes very well together.
4. Do you hang mistletoe?
No. We only ever have family over usually, and who wants to kiss them?
5. When do you put your decorations up?
Well.... I'm bad. I asked Ma to postpone decorating this year because we have too much stuff in the living room anyway. So, I didn't want the house to be ALL that much more crowded for my graduation party today. SO, we need to get crackin' now that it's all over with.
6. What is your favorite holiday dish?
Stuffing, when it's done right.
7. Favorite Holiday memory as a child?
You all are going to think I had the worst parents in the world, but it's a fun story... When I was probably about 5 or 6 and my little sister was 4 or 5, we celebrated Christmas at my Grandma's house. Dad gave each of us a teeny weeny little bit of champaign (I'm talking like 2 swallows for a normal person), and I had about 2 sips of it and was totally drunk. So, the best part of the story was that little Sis and I played drunken "Guess Who" (remember that game where you tried to find out which card person the other player had?) on the playroom floor at Granny's. I was very dizzy, but it was fun.
8. When and how did you learn the truth about Santa?
I believed in Santa for a long time because we always celebrated Christmas on Christmas Eve. Mom would take us around in the car to look at Christmas lights while Santa was delivering gifts. Well, we were out in the country and I guess some guy had dressed up as Santa because there he was looking into a window. I could have sworn there were reindeer on the roof, too...
9. Do you open a gift on Christmas Eve?
Up until recently, we opened all of our gifts on Christmas Eve. Now we do it whenever we can all get together.
10. How do you decorate your Christmas Tree?
Handmade school decorations, big colored lights, glass colored globes.. The usual fare.
11. Snow! Love it or Dread it?
Dread! As a commuter for the past 4 years, I really started to despise the stuff, although every time it snows pretty, I think of a poem that I might share at some other point.
12. Can you ice skate?
Never tried.
13. Do you remember your favorite gift?
Either my Teddy Ruxpin or my Charlie McCarthy Ventriloquist doll that I BEGGED for.
14. What’s the most important thing about the Holidays for you?
Being with my friends and family, going to church, and feeling that wonderful warmth of knowing it's not about us.
15. What is your favorite Holiday Dessert?
Peanut Clusters or Fudge!
16. What is your favorite holiday tradition?
Christmas Eve worship (for the past several years) and going to Sis's house for Christmas morning breakfast/brunch.
17. What tops your tree?
A classy little angel. It's cute.
18.Which do you prefer giving or receiving?
Giving, even despite my frugal tendencies. I like to give.
19. What is your favorite Christmas Song?
O Holy Night
20. Candy Canes! Yuck or Yum?
Yuck. No thanks; not even the fruit flavored ones.
I tag Inheritor of Heaven, Jae, and Jacki, if they are so inclined...
Thursday, November 23, 2006
I'm touched.
Well, here I sit in Illinois with 1 hour and 40 minutes left for Thanksgiving as I begin this post. Today was a great day. I spent it at Sis and BiL's house. They hosted a combined "his family, her family" dinner and it was really great. I liked it having it this way. A few years ago when Ma had a boyfriend, she would go to his family get together, both of my brothers had their own "other" family things to do, my older sis usually planned to do Thanksgiving with her boyfriend/fiance of the time (now husband), and my younger sister's boyfriend was a psycho who wouldn't let her associate with her sibs very often. So, that left me. At home. All alone. And sad because it sucks to be alone on holidays. So, Sis and her bf (now husband) would invite me to his family things. They said, "What's one more? Plus, everyone likes you." So, I only had to do one or two holidays alone before BiL's family "adopted" me. And so, now that we've all come back together for Thanksgiving, it's nice to have an even bigger event with multiple families.
Anyway, dinner was ready, the turkey and ham were carved, and we were ready to start dishing up the food when all of a sudden I hear, "Trish! Trish!" I looked up and it was BiL. He said, "Come here." So I went over to where he was and he said, "Why don't you say a prayer?" And I said, "Me? I've never done the family prayer before." (We have always done, "Come Lord Jesus...") He said, "Well, this is going to be your line of work, so I'd appreciate it." So, BiL got everyone's attention and said, "Ok, listen up!" Everyone got quiet and I said, "Let's have a prayer." And then we bowed our heads and I said a prayer of thanksgiving. And at the end, we all said "Amen" and I looked up and a few of the guys were wiping tears from their eyes. And I was and still am touched because the men involved are not the crying type. Far from it, really. But I hope the prayer was able to help us all see how much we have to be thankful for. Below is basically what I said (Considering the fact I was not expecting to have to give a prayer, and that it came off the top of my head and from the bottom of my heart).
Prayer of Thanksgiving 11-23-06
Heavenly Father, we give you thanks today for the food that is about to nourish our bodies, and for the fellowship to refresh our souls.
We give you thanks especially for the two families who have come together today to share in a meal and in laughter.
We also give thanks for the many generations represented here today, that help us see that we are all connected.
Bless our time together as a family with friendship, fellowship, and laughter. For all these things, we give you thanks. For this we pray through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.
Anyway, dinner was ready, the turkey and ham were carved, and we were ready to start dishing up the food when all of a sudden I hear, "Trish! Trish!" I looked up and it was BiL. He said, "Come here." So I went over to where he was and he said, "Why don't you say a prayer?" And I said, "Me? I've never done the family prayer before." (We have always done, "Come Lord Jesus...") He said, "Well, this is going to be your line of work, so I'd appreciate it." So, BiL got everyone's attention and said, "Ok, listen up!" Everyone got quiet and I said, "Let's have a prayer." And then we bowed our heads and I said a prayer of thanksgiving. And at the end, we all said "Amen" and I looked up and a few of the guys were wiping tears from their eyes. And I was and still am touched because the men involved are not the crying type. Far from it, really. But I hope the prayer was able to help us all see how much we have to be thankful for. Below is basically what I said (Considering the fact I was not expecting to have to give a prayer, and that it came off the top of my head and from the bottom of my heart).
Prayer of Thanksgiving 11-23-06
Heavenly Father, we give you thanks today for the food that is about to nourish our bodies, and for the fellowship to refresh our souls.
We give you thanks especially for the two families who have come together today to share in a meal and in laughter.
We also give thanks for the many generations represented here today, that help us see that we are all connected.
Bless our time together as a family with friendship, fellowship, and laughter. For all these things, we give you thanks. For this we pray through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.
Saturday, December 24, 2005
Ha! Hours and hours!
I have just "wasted" the past 3 hours of my life playing some fun winter type games online. I was blogsurfing and found the address for this game where you smack a penguin and see how far you can make it fly! Oh, it is very fun. My high score is 323.5. Thanks to Friday Mom for posting it on her blog for the world to find and be entertained! Anyway, other than this, nothing much is going on. I don't think I'm going to be able to go swimming in the pool at the hotel where my brother, sister-in-law, and nephew are staying this coming weekend. We were all going to go swimming because my little pile of adorable was going to have waterwings so he could show us how he "swims." But, maybe this stuffed nose will miraculously disappear. But then, the only question is: Do I really want to risk the germs of a... dondondon *gasp* public pool?!?! Yes, there are chemicals and other things to keep it clean, but I'm a slight germaphobe. We'll just have to see. I might overlook the germs considering Nephew is way too cute to observe from afar. Oh, something funny (I think it is, anyway). I just about drove myself nuts at work tonight. I work in foodservice as a waitress/hostess/salad woman/slave and tonight was one of my waitressing nights. I thought I would be festive and where my socks with the jingly bell on them. I did. It was NOT a good idea. By 6:00 p.m. I was about ready to rip those little bells clean off. But I decided not to because then people might think I'm not in the Christmas spirit or something. Haha. Nah. So anyway, that's it for now. And remember, don't let Grandma drink too much eggnog because you don't want her staggering out the door into the snow to be run over by reindeer.
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