While drafting this letter in my head, I played out both sides of the problem because I wanted to give you the benefit of the doubt and assume that you had nothing but good intentions in leaving one of your hairs behind on the toilet seat for me to find today. **notice i said hairs behind, not behind hairs as I try not to make these assumptions**
Pro:
1) The presence of the left behind hair reminds us all, "hey, this seat is nasty-dirty and only cleaned once daily (and who knows if they actually clean the toilet seat, i think they just lift it up and clean the bowl) and given that there are only 3 toilets in the ladies restrooms and 30+ women who use them (as well as the ladies from the next building who come over to OUR building...im guessing because they have some stank business to take care of) and given that the average woman probably uses the ladies room 3x/day thats an average of 30x/day that someone sits on this here throne. yeah...do yourself a favor and utilize the ridiculously thin seat liner...or better yet, go to the next hair-free stall."
Con:
1) The presence of the left behind hair reminds us all just how nasty some "ladies" can be and makes us crazy by trying to catch the "Rapunzel Rapunzel let down your hair" culprit therefore verifying the size and style of shoe seen in the next stall and lingering just a bit longer while washing the hands so that you can then run back to said stall and check the seat for reminents.
I've come to the conclusion that while I appreciate any attempt that your Rapunzel donation made at the "pro" argument listed above, I've decided that your lost and found object is, indeed a con as it's making me mad crazy and induced a new super sleuth challenge for which I simply don't have time to investigate.
So, in the future, although I'm sure you had the best intentions when envoking your Rapunzel habits...I must insist that you follow appropriate airline regulations and "Please check under your seat and in the overhead cabin to insure you have all of your belongs as you depart the aircraft. We thank you so much for flying with us today. We know you have a choice when you fly and no one loves you, or your money, like us!"
Sincerely,
MC
Monday, June 30, 2008
Sunday, June 29, 2008
The Grass Is Always Greener
Surprisingly, I watched part of 'Cheaper By The Dozen 2' today. I'm not normally a fan of the cheesy disney movies but this one has a great message.
To summarize...the family spends the summer back at the lakehouse resurrecting an old family tradition. However, this year, they learn that a former nemesis has now built the biggest, baddest, best place on the lake. They have all the games, toys and luxuries that everyone wants and suddenly the family kids only want to be at the house across the lake.
This has such a similarity to real life. It seems that everyone we know constantly has the newest, best thing. From homes, electronics, cars, wardrobes, jobs, pets, etc. Most of the time we hang out with friends it's to see the new something at someone's house. Which is so funny to me because in all reality, you don't need a reason to hang out with someone or need something to do...if you're truly friends.
It's hard not to get wrapped up in the race to be the best and often I wonder what we have to offer our friends for entertainment. What reason do our friends have to come over to this house? After all, we don't have a big screen, a pool, the latest video game, a pool table, etc.
But forget all that cause I have access to a lake house! And THIS was finally the year that I'd be able to have a big bash at the lake for the 4th of july. Because THIS year, the 4th is on a Friday and everyone promised last year when they made other plans that they'd "definitely be there NEXT year."
I'd already booked hotel rooms (because it's going to be that big), planned ahead for batches and batches of our newly famous margaritas, smores by the bonfire pit, sunscreen, bbq, fireworks, the list goes on and on (I'd even envisioned the ping pong tournament brackets.) I was beyond excited. I wondered if we had everything we'd need to be "that house across the lake" where EVERYONE wanted to be. And if we didn't, thats why they invented Walmart.
No matter how perfect it was going to be, reality is a bit more perfect. It seems that not one of the promises made last year will actually deliver.
So, I've cancelled the hotel reservations and put the money back in my account that I'd withdrawn for the fun weekend.
It seems that it didn't matter how green the grass was on my side, there was something else this year that was greener. Instead of being bummed out for the next week I've decided to withdraw from the competition. (Completely unlike me, I know.)
I don't have much to entertain you with except for my fabulous personality. (And even if I did, I don't plan on entertaining you unless you're five.)
But if anyone wants to hang out with some friends who don't have the latest and greatest anything (and probably never will), give us a call.
P.S. We haven't watered our grass in weeks...but somehow, its really green and if that's not symbolism, I don't know what is!
Currently Reading: Bitter Is the New Black by Jen Lancaster
To summarize...the family spends the summer back at the lakehouse resurrecting an old family tradition. However, this year, they learn that a former nemesis has now built the biggest, baddest, best place on the lake. They have all the games, toys and luxuries that everyone wants and suddenly the family kids only want to be at the house across the lake.
This has such a similarity to real life. It seems that everyone we know constantly has the newest, best thing. From homes, electronics, cars, wardrobes, jobs, pets, etc. Most of the time we hang out with friends it's to see the new something at someone's house. Which is so funny to me because in all reality, you don't need a reason to hang out with someone or need something to do...if you're truly friends.
It's hard not to get wrapped up in the race to be the best and often I wonder what we have to offer our friends for entertainment. What reason do our friends have to come over to this house? After all, we don't have a big screen, a pool, the latest video game, a pool table, etc.
But forget all that cause I have access to a lake house! And THIS was finally the year that I'd be able to have a big bash at the lake for the 4th of july. Because THIS year, the 4th is on a Friday and everyone promised last year when they made other plans that they'd "definitely be there NEXT year."
I'd already booked hotel rooms (because it's going to be that big), planned ahead for batches and batches of our newly famous margaritas, smores by the bonfire pit, sunscreen, bbq, fireworks, the list goes on and on (I'd even envisioned the ping pong tournament brackets.) I was beyond excited. I wondered if we had everything we'd need to be "that house across the lake" where EVERYONE wanted to be. And if we didn't, thats why they invented Walmart.
No matter how perfect it was going to be, reality is a bit more perfect. It seems that not one of the promises made last year will actually deliver.
So, I've cancelled the hotel reservations and put the money back in my account that I'd withdrawn for the fun weekend.
It seems that it didn't matter how green the grass was on my side, there was something else this year that was greener. Instead of being bummed out for the next week I've decided to withdraw from the competition. (Completely unlike me, I know.)
I don't have much to entertain you with except for my fabulous personality. (And even if I did, I don't plan on entertaining you unless you're five.)
But if anyone wants to hang out with some friends who don't have the latest and greatest anything (and probably never will), give us a call.
P.S. We haven't watered our grass in weeks...but somehow, its really green and if that's not symbolism, I don't know what is!
Currently Reading: Bitter Is the New Black by Jen Lancaster
Friday, June 27, 2008
Why I love my BF
Quote from this evening:
"Doctors in New York are being encouraged to give patients routine HIV tests......What did I say..one in four people in New York have herpes? I'm SO glad we didn't catch anything in that city. $ex and the city wh0res."
I can't stop laughing.
"Doctors in New York are being encouraged to give patients routine HIV tests......What did I say..one in four people in New York have herpes? I'm SO glad we didn't catch anything in that city. $ex and the city wh0res."
I can't stop laughing.
Thursday, June 26, 2008
escape
I've never been in a place in my life where I didn't have a place to escape. That one place where you go when you want to breathe or not breathe, where you want to think or not think, and a place where even if only for ten minutes...you feel like no one can find you and where you find yourself.
I can measure my life up to this point in terms of where my escape was. Growing up it was generally someplace outside and near my house. In college it was often my hammock that I worked so hard to buy, a certain swingset on the outside of town, or my favorite park bench in my favorite park. Since graduation, my escape has changed so many times as I've moved regularly. Since this latest move, I realized that I'm in need of a new place to escape and I don't have one.
Sometimes I consider this blog to be an escape, mainly because I don't think anyone reads it (other than my mom and my BFF).
So until I find my escape....this one will have to do:
Here's hoping that when you need to make sense of it all, you find your escape.
I can measure my life up to this point in terms of where my escape was. Growing up it was generally someplace outside and near my house. In college it was often my hammock that I worked so hard to buy, a certain swingset on the outside of town, or my favorite park bench in my favorite park. Since graduation, my escape has changed so many times as I've moved regularly. Since this latest move, I realized that I'm in need of a new place to escape and I don't have one.
Sometimes I consider this blog to be an escape, mainly because I don't think anyone reads it (other than my mom and my BFF).
So until I find my escape....this one will have to do:
Here's hoping that when you need to make sense of it all, you find your escape.
I know who the final two are in The Bachelorette!
If you want to know....leave me a comment or email me and I'll send you proof!
the roids
I took my last steroid pill yesterday morning before breakfast. I think I'm starting to feel like myself again...but who knows.
Maybe I should go work out since they're probably still in my system...haha.
Regardless, I'm STILL sick! Ack!
Maybe I should go work out since they're probably still in my system...haha.
Regardless, I'm STILL sick! Ack!
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Why I Love My Sister-In-Law
This is what she told me yesterday.
"You're not even a diamond in the rough, MC, you're f*cking Tiffanys!"
I love that.
"You're not even a diamond in the rough, MC, you're f*cking Tiffanys!"
I love that.
on the outside looking in...or is it the other way around?
So it's not a new thing that I rant about people asking me "so...when ya gonna get hitched?" And I've always wanted to scream at them because I do want to get married and have kids. So their asking me prompts an internal rant of "i don't know, you twit, when I propose to someone or someone proposes to me and there is a YES answer, I'll be sure and let you know. Until then, shut your face and get me another margarita." But, maturely, I just smile and say "oh...i'll let ya know!" *insert fake laugh here*
Recently, I've been sick and am on ridiculous amounts of antibiotics. One of which is a steroid and I think it's affecting me more than I realize (or at least I choose to blame my actions and the following rant on it). I constantly look for cheap real estate to buy in hopes of one day flipping a house, I posted an ad for my planning services on craigslist (what?) and I've completely redirected my thoughts/feelings on the whole marriage issue.
Here's what I believe to be true (feel free to correct me):
~When I hear things about marriage these days, usually I hear "Marriage is Hard" "Marriage is Work" "The First Year is the Hardest" etc etc (ooh, sign me up!)
~When I counted out my top 10 happiest marriages, 8 of them are second marriages.(so should my first marriage be for money, love, real estate?? anyone know any 80yr olds with a heart condition?)
~I don't know anyone who has been married less than 5 years without kids who are in, what I would consider to be, a happy marriage (please don't be offended if you have been married less than 5 years, this is just me ranting)
~I know more divorced couples with kids than married couples with kids and of those divorced couples, all of them have a child less than 6 years old. (breaks my heart)
~The most interesting shows, books, movies these days tend to involve someone breaking a marriage vow...most of the time its the "i promise to be true to you and only to you."
~I hear so much about infidelity lately that it scares me.
~I, myself, am a product of a blended family.
I could go on and on with wierd facts and figures that I've collected in my wierd littel brain. But the main thing is....there are very few happily married couples out there, even happily married newlyweds! I don't know if thats supposed to scare me away from getting married one day or make me yearn that much more to be one of the happy ones.
Because, I'll be completely honest, I want nothing more than to be a Mom one day. I want to teach them things and take them places and take care of them when they are sick (i recently learned that not all moms do that last one-shame on you!) and watch them grow. I want to share my life with someone who wants to wake up to me in the morning and talk about the weather when we lose our teeth and our kids have moved on. I have no problem working at any issue...in fact, everything I put into my life and my relationships...I put my whole heart in it.
Is it too much to ask to have someone do the same?
My grandparents were married for almost 50 years. They started dating in grade school and breifly broke up at some point during high school or maybe college but lived happily ever after. I want what they had. I think we all do. But I can't help but wonder, if they were to meet in this century.....would a happily ever after still have happened?
We are a different generation playing by a different set of rules. I am constantly amazed at how many selfish people exist in the world today.
I have a quote up on my refridgerator that says "Just because we deserve the best doesn't mean we're entitled to it." I wish I could broadcast that on every tv, radio, billboard and movie screen. People just don't understand how to give.
So for those of you who are lucky enough to find the things that many of us are searching for...I commend you...I applaud you..and I'm jealous as hell of you. And all I ask is that you maintain your title of "happily married couple" for the sake of our pathetic hopes that one day we can join you. Next time he doesn't load the dishwasher or she falls asleep too soon, let it go and cherish the things that they DO, not what they DONT DO.
And for those of you who don't fit into this category...I have two words for you. SHUT UP. You took your vows, you made your promises and now it's time to live up to those. I'm tired of hearing you gripe about money, kids, gas, houses, taxes, jobs, romance, family. Do you see what you have next to you? At one time in your life, you appreciated and respected that person....where is that appreciation now? You can't do anything about the other person, but you can do something about yourself. Be the spouse that you want to be and I would tend to think that they will too.
So until you all can start behaving better and being something that I want to be, I'm be here in my selfish, non married life waiting.....for what? I'll let ya know.
Recently, I've been sick and am on ridiculous amounts of antibiotics. One of which is a steroid and I think it's affecting me more than I realize (or at least I choose to blame my actions and the following rant on it). I constantly look for cheap real estate to buy in hopes of one day flipping a house, I posted an ad for my planning services on craigslist (what?) and I've completely redirected my thoughts/feelings on the whole marriage issue.
Here's what I believe to be true (feel free to correct me):
~When I hear things about marriage these days, usually I hear "Marriage is Hard" "Marriage is Work" "The First Year is the Hardest" etc etc (ooh, sign me up!)
~When I counted out my top 10 happiest marriages, 8 of them are second marriages.(so should my first marriage be for money, love, real estate?? anyone know any 80yr olds with a heart condition?)
~I don't know anyone who has been married less than 5 years without kids who are in, what I would consider to be, a happy marriage (please don't be offended if you have been married less than 5 years, this is just me ranting)
~I know more divorced couples with kids than married couples with kids and of those divorced couples, all of them have a child less than 6 years old. (breaks my heart)
~The most interesting shows, books, movies these days tend to involve someone breaking a marriage vow...most of the time its the "i promise to be true to you and only to you."
~I hear so much about infidelity lately that it scares me.
~I, myself, am a product of a blended family.
I could go on and on with wierd facts and figures that I've collected in my wierd littel brain. But the main thing is....there are very few happily married couples out there, even happily married newlyweds! I don't know if thats supposed to scare me away from getting married one day or make me yearn that much more to be one of the happy ones.
Because, I'll be completely honest, I want nothing more than to be a Mom one day. I want to teach them things and take them places and take care of them when they are sick (i recently learned that not all moms do that last one-shame on you!) and watch them grow. I want to share my life with someone who wants to wake up to me in the morning and talk about the weather when we lose our teeth and our kids have moved on. I have no problem working at any issue...in fact, everything I put into my life and my relationships...I put my whole heart in it.
Is it too much to ask to have someone do the same?
My grandparents were married for almost 50 years. They started dating in grade school and breifly broke up at some point during high school or maybe college but lived happily ever after. I want what they had. I think we all do. But I can't help but wonder, if they were to meet in this century.....would a happily ever after still have happened?
We are a different generation playing by a different set of rules. I am constantly amazed at how many selfish people exist in the world today.
I have a quote up on my refridgerator that says "Just because we deserve the best doesn't mean we're entitled to it." I wish I could broadcast that on every tv, radio, billboard and movie screen. People just don't understand how to give.
So for those of you who are lucky enough to find the things that many of us are searching for...I commend you...I applaud you..and I'm jealous as hell of you. And all I ask is that you maintain your title of "happily married couple" for the sake of our pathetic hopes that one day we can join you. Next time he doesn't load the dishwasher or she falls asleep too soon, let it go and cherish the things that they DO, not what they DONT DO.
And for those of you who don't fit into this category...I have two words for you. SHUT UP. You took your vows, you made your promises and now it's time to live up to those. I'm tired of hearing you gripe about money, kids, gas, houses, taxes, jobs, romance, family. Do you see what you have next to you? At one time in your life, you appreciated and respected that person....where is that appreciation now? You can't do anything about the other person, but you can do something about yourself. Be the spouse that you want to be and I would tend to think that they will too.
So until you all can start behaving better and being something that I want to be, I'm be here in my selfish, non married life waiting.....for what? I'll let ya know.
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
I'm a planner...let me help you! Here goes nothing
so...I'm starting what will hopefully be a new chapter in my life...
I've been told several times that I've missed my calling as an event planner. I won't lie, this has always been a dream of mine. However, I have come to love and appreciate my weekends so the idea of working over the weekend scares me a bit.
That being said, I posted an ad on Craigslist and I'm going to look for other ways to test the waters to see if I get any bites.
I'm leaving it up the Lord as to where this could/might take me but hopefully it will give me options in the future! I love my job and wouldn't think of leaving, I'm just interested in branching out and seeing where this takes me. Mainly I think I just want to use a clipboard everyday....clipboards have power!
So, if you know of anyone planning an event, shower, party, wedding, etc and wants someone who's ridiculously organized, creative and frugal to help them, send them my way!! I'll keep ya posted on how things are going. Wish me luck!
I've been told several times that I've missed my calling as an event planner. I won't lie, this has always been a dream of mine. However, I have come to love and appreciate my weekends so the idea of working over the weekend scares me a bit.
That being said, I posted an ad on Craigslist and I'm going to look for other ways to test the waters to see if I get any bites.
I'm leaving it up the Lord as to where this could/might take me but hopefully it will give me options in the future! I love my job and wouldn't think of leaving, I'm just interested in branching out and seeing where this takes me. Mainly I think I just want to use a clipboard everyday....clipboards have power!
So, if you know of anyone planning an event, shower, party, wedding, etc and wants someone who's ridiculously organized, creative and frugal to help them, send them my way!! I'll keep ya posted on how things are going. Wish me luck!
Gas Gas Gas......Blah Blah Blah
I would tend to imagine that the rising cost of gas is on everyone's top 5 rants lately. Well I wouldn't say that I rant about it, per say, but I am definitely aware.
I drive a Mazda CX-7 and I happen to love it. I paid less than $20K for it brand new and have never had buyers remorse. I always recommend my car to other people because I bought the basic, standard featured car (except for the $75 bucks I paid to put the rubber guard on the back bumper and it is by no means basic. When I recommend my car, everyone is right there with me until I mention that it only takes premium). You see, my car is a 2007 and it only takes 91 octane or above. I knew this when I purchased it in September 2006.
I feel the need to defend this action and my awesome car. My rationalization was that I was buying the car for a good $6K less than the closest competing car that took regular unleaded. If you factor in that for super unleaded or premium, you're paying probably 15 cents higher per gallon. If your car takes 18 gallons, that's an additional $2.70 per fill up. If you fill up twice a month, thats $5.40 a month more than regular unleaded (not even the cost of a starbucks) which brings it to a grand total of $64.80 annually that you are spending more than the average regular unleaded joe.
Do you see my logic here people? Do you know how many years it would take me to make up that $6K I saved up front??? OVER 92 YEARS!!!
So lets be realistic here...Stop focusing on the cost of the gas you put in your car...and focus on the amount of money you spent on your car in the first place!! If you have a $40K car and are complaining about the cost of gas....maybe you should take a moment and re-think that one.
**final note: don't get me wrong here, I do believe that gas prices are too high and I take any means necessary to get the best prices. Here's hoping there's an end in sight!
I drive a Mazda CX-7 and I happen to love it. I paid less than $20K for it brand new and have never had buyers remorse. I always recommend my car to other people because I bought the basic, standard featured car (except for the $75 bucks I paid to put the rubber guard on the back bumper and it is by no means basic. When I recommend my car, everyone is right there with me until I mention that it only takes premium). You see, my car is a 2007 and it only takes 91 octane or above. I knew this when I purchased it in September 2006.
I feel the need to defend this action and my awesome car. My rationalization was that I was buying the car for a good $6K less than the closest competing car that took regular unleaded. If you factor in that for super unleaded or premium, you're paying probably 15 cents higher per gallon. If your car takes 18 gallons, that's an additional $2.70 per fill up. If you fill up twice a month, thats $5.40 a month more than regular unleaded (not even the cost of a starbucks) which brings it to a grand total of $64.80 annually that you are spending more than the average regular unleaded joe.
Do you see my logic here people? Do you know how many years it would take me to make up that $6K I saved up front??? OVER 92 YEARS!!!
So lets be realistic here...Stop focusing on the cost of the gas you put in your car...and focus on the amount of money you spent on your car in the first place!! If you have a $40K car and are complaining about the cost of gas....maybe you should take a moment and re-think that one.
**final note: don't get me wrong here, I do believe that gas prices are too high and I take any means necessary to get the best prices. Here's hoping there's an end in sight!
Monday, June 23, 2008
domestic diva strikes back!
I have never thought of myself as a perfectionist. Mainly because I think I'm pretty perfect as-is so there's no need to double-check. Oh...and did I mention that I'm humble?
Well, during my 4th week of being sick, I broke down and decided to hire someone to mow the lawn. I have learned to enjoy yardwork but given the fact that I can't seem to get better, I decided it wouldn't be good for me to be out there with the grasses, etc.
He promised to mow the yard by Friday. Friday came and went. Saturday they showed up and I was more than happy to see them as the yard was now a jungle and the dogs looked like jumping deer since they couldn't just run around anymore.
When we returned Saturday night, they had scalped the yard, buldozed one whole flowerbed and the bottom of my butterfly bush, knocked over and broke one of our landscape lights and shredded the cord to it, weed-eated part of my garden so now all of my cucumber and zucchini plants are dead and ripped the soaker hose from underneath the cement slab in the back yard (no clue how we'll get that back under there.) Oh, and they also only trimmed up one side of the tree and didnt trim it away from the house (what I told him was most important)
So, the moral of the story is...if you want it done right, do it yourself! OR hire me!
Well, during my 4th week of being sick, I broke down and decided to hire someone to mow the lawn. I have learned to enjoy yardwork but given the fact that I can't seem to get better, I decided it wouldn't be good for me to be out there with the grasses, etc.
He promised to mow the yard by Friday. Friday came and went. Saturday they showed up and I was more than happy to see them as the yard was now a jungle and the dogs looked like jumping deer since they couldn't just run around anymore.
When we returned Saturday night, they had scalped the yard, buldozed one whole flowerbed and the bottom of my butterfly bush, knocked over and broke one of our landscape lights and shredded the cord to it, weed-eated part of my garden so now all of my cucumber and zucchini plants are dead and ripped the soaker hose from underneath the cement slab in the back yard (no clue how we'll get that back under there.) Oh, and they also only trimmed up one side of the tree and didnt trim it away from the house (what I told him was most important)
So, the moral of the story is...if you want it done right, do it yourself! OR hire me!
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
waiting for the inevitable-updated.
**update**: we got the news that she passed away today. Please say a prayer for the family. We miss her already but are glad she doesn't have to be in pain any longer.**
I'm going to start this blog the same way you used to start a paper in school when you didn't know where to start. The definition of the subject.
According to dictionary.com, inevitable is
1. unable to be avoided, evaded, or escaped; certain; necessary: an inevitable conclusion.
2. sure to occur, happen, or come; unalterable: The inevitable end of human life is death.
–noun 3. that which is unavoidable.
My grandmother's best friend has been given 24-48 hours to live. She is thought to have pancreatic cancer and is on high doses of morphine to keep her comfortable. Unfortunately for us, this also keeps her asleep.
Even though we aren't related by blood, she's my grandmother too. As far back as I can remember...there was Granny and there was Marilyn. I don't know exactly when they met but it was a lifetime ago. She was a proud Baylor supporter, a strong christian and an all around wonderful woman. She has always been sharp as a tack and the most loveable person. And more importantly to me, she was the person we relied on to look after Granny when Pawpaw died....and she did. Marilyn's kids all went to tell Granny the news in person because we're basically one big family intertwined. I was in awe of such a selfless act on their part.
I'm on antibiotics and can't go out there to be with her and it's really doing a number on me. But when you think about it, these precious few moments that she has left are not for me....they're for her kids. Thats how you know someone was truly loved and touched a special place in everyone's heart.....because selfishly, I'm upset that I don't get to see her too.
I remember when they used to play bridge at the club, when "the grannies" would take girls weekends to Lake Austin, Horseshoe Bay or skiing in Colorado. I remember when our families spent summers at Possum Kingdom lake where we played spoons with her grandkids, watched Jaws, washed our hair with Vo5 and took showers in the lake, went skiing with bananas (before they had life jackets) rode water weenies, went to the trading post to buy candy cigarettes. The memories go on and on.
So while we know the inevitable is coming, I think we're all glad that we've had the incredible time with her that we've had. My parents went there yesterday to visit her and to visit my Granny. She said that the best way they knew to be with Granny was to talk about Marilyn. To talk about the memories they made and the friendship they shared. My only wish is that she be in peace and that we're given an opportunity to truly celebrate her life, the impact she made, and the legacy of love, family and faith that she leaves behind.
I'm going to start this blog the same way you used to start a paper in school when you didn't know where to start. The definition of the subject.
According to dictionary.com, inevitable is
1. unable to be avoided, evaded, or escaped; certain; necessary: an inevitable conclusion.
2. sure to occur, happen, or come; unalterable: The inevitable end of human life is death.
–noun 3. that which is unavoidable.
My grandmother's best friend has been given 24-48 hours to live. She is thought to have pancreatic cancer and is on high doses of morphine to keep her comfortable. Unfortunately for us, this also keeps her asleep.
Even though we aren't related by blood, she's my grandmother too. As far back as I can remember...there was Granny and there was Marilyn. I don't know exactly when they met but it was a lifetime ago. She was a proud Baylor supporter, a strong christian and an all around wonderful woman. She has always been sharp as a tack and the most loveable person. And more importantly to me, she was the person we relied on to look after Granny when Pawpaw died....and she did. Marilyn's kids all went to tell Granny the news in person because we're basically one big family intertwined. I was in awe of such a selfless act on their part.
I'm on antibiotics and can't go out there to be with her and it's really doing a number on me. But when you think about it, these precious few moments that she has left are not for me....they're for her kids. Thats how you know someone was truly loved and touched a special place in everyone's heart.....because selfishly, I'm upset that I don't get to see her too.
I remember when they used to play bridge at the club, when "the grannies" would take girls weekends to Lake Austin, Horseshoe Bay or skiing in Colorado. I remember when our families spent summers at Possum Kingdom lake where we played spoons with her grandkids, watched Jaws, washed our hair with Vo5 and took showers in the lake, went skiing with bananas (before they had life jackets) rode water weenies, went to the trading post to buy candy cigarettes. The memories go on and on.
So while we know the inevitable is coming, I think we're all glad that we've had the incredible time with her that we've had. My parents went there yesterday to visit her and to visit my Granny. She said that the best way they knew to be with Granny was to talk about Marilyn. To talk about the memories they made and the friendship they shared. My only wish is that she be in peace and that we're given an opportunity to truly celebrate her life, the impact she made, and the legacy of love, family and faith that she leaves behind.
Friday, June 13, 2008
Thanksgiving shouldn't be one day a year...
I was inspired by my friend Maria, the bride from the NY wedding we attended last weekend. She is now the wife of my very good friend Parker (aka Hyun, Park, Asian Sensation, etc). I knew I liked her from the first day I met her...something about her cheerful outlook and not just her smile, but the smile she put on Parker's face...I knew it would work. Anyway, I digress.
At their rehearsal dinner, they had us all go around the room and introduce ourselves. We were to say our name, where we were from, how we knew the happy couple and then say something we were thankful for that was non-wedding related.
I love that!
I love that on this weekend that is entirely about them, their love, their future together...they wanted to hear about us and what makes us happy. Talk about being selfless!!
I think we should make Thanksgiving a more frequent occurence. Not the big turkey festivity where we stuff ourselves until we have to unbutton the top button (my tush couldn't handle that) but the part where we remind ourselves of what is good.
For me, I'm thankful for:
-my faith
-my family
-my ryan
-my friends
-my job that i love
-a roof over my head that my ryan provides
-moses, gracie and cooper
-my little garden thats growing
-my ability to look for the positive
-my passion for the future
So...what are you thankful for? You don't have to comment here (although I'd love that) but ask yourself what you're thankful for and ask others around you. You'll be amazed at how it will cheer you up and make your day.
At their rehearsal dinner, they had us all go around the room and introduce ourselves. We were to say our name, where we were from, how we knew the happy couple and then say something we were thankful for that was non-wedding related.
I love that!
I love that on this weekend that is entirely about them, their love, their future together...they wanted to hear about us and what makes us happy. Talk about being selfless!!
I think we should make Thanksgiving a more frequent occurence. Not the big turkey festivity where we stuff ourselves until we have to unbutton the top button (my tush couldn't handle that) but the part where we remind ourselves of what is good.
For me, I'm thankful for:
-my faith
-my family
-my ryan
-my friends
-my job that i love
-a roof over my head that my ryan provides
-moses, gracie and cooper
-my little garden thats growing
-my ability to look for the positive
-my passion for the future
So...what are you thankful for? You don't have to comment here (although I'd love that) but ask yourself what you're thankful for and ask others around you. You'll be amazed at how it will cheer you up and make your day.
Miss MC's Neighborhood
Did you ever used to watch Mr. Rogers?? You're secretly singing the 'Be My Neighbor' song, aren't you? Yeah, me too.
Well, moving into our neighborhood made me remember this show for some wierd reason. So, I re-watched a clip of the show and I've always remembered that he came in, put his stuff down, took off his suit jacket, put on a sweater (which he often had trouble zipping), changed from dress shoes (and tossed one from right hand to left..i always drop it when i try that) and put on tennis shoes.
This got me thinking...why would you take off the extra clothing and put on something else?? Who do you know that does this? I'd take off the jacket, tie, shoes etc and put on something actually comfortable! This got me thinking...what else is wrong about this picture?
1. The trolley was my favorite character but when i watched the clip, he comes out to the scariest freaking music!!
2. Henrietta the cat...who says meow every other word....well meow I know why that scene in Super Troopers is SO funny!
3. The king lives next to the train track? really? they couldn't afford a better piece of land.
4. Henrietta the cat and the bird are best friends?
5. Lady Elaine Fairchild looks like the Clown on IT!
So as a child, we were brainwashed to believe that the ideal neighborhood was Mister Roger's Neighborhood...but in reality, they're just a bunch of freaks!!I decided that Mister Roger's Neighborhood ain't got nothin' on mine! So, instead, here's a new way to remember this show..
Parents...Protect your kids!
(Oh, and a shameless plug for my BFF...if you're a new parent or a parent-to-be, check out this Eco Friendly Baby bag that she designed for Wee Generation...good stuff!!)
Well, moving into our neighborhood made me remember this show for some wierd reason. So, I re-watched a clip of the show and I've always remembered that he came in, put his stuff down, took off his suit jacket, put on a sweater (which he often had trouble zipping), changed from dress shoes (and tossed one from right hand to left..i always drop it when i try that) and put on tennis shoes.
This got me thinking...why would you take off the extra clothing and put on something else?? Who do you know that does this? I'd take off the jacket, tie, shoes etc and put on something actually comfortable! This got me thinking...what else is wrong about this picture?
1. The trolley was my favorite character but when i watched the clip, he comes out to the scariest freaking music!!
2. Henrietta the cat...who says meow every other word....well meow I know why that scene in Super Troopers is SO funny!
3. The king lives next to the train track? really? they couldn't afford a better piece of land.
4. Henrietta the cat and the bird are best friends?
5. Lady Elaine Fairchild looks like the Clown on IT!
So as a child, we were brainwashed to believe that the ideal neighborhood was Mister Roger's Neighborhood...but in reality, they're just a bunch of freaks!!I decided that Mister Roger's Neighborhood ain't got nothin' on mine! So, instead, here's a new way to remember this show..
Parents...Protect your kids!
(Oh, and a shameless plug for my BFF...if you're a new parent or a parent-to-be, check out this Eco Friendly Baby bag that she designed for Wee Generation...good stuff!!)
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Apple Times v3
If you were to ask me what I remember most about my trip to NY...Ryan and I would both tell you that it was freaking hot!!!
Seriously, NY had a heat wave while we were there...hottest temps this time in June since the 30s! I would sweat in places that I didn't know had glands. We actually looked forward to our subway rides because the trains are air conditioned unlike most cabs.
I won't give you a rundown of our trip as it'll be boring for you but here is our list of things we learned:
1) You can go up to the top of the empire state bldg until 2am and it's much cooler at night!
2) Grey's Papaya is supposedly the best hot dog in NY but there aren't any in manhattan!
3) FAO Schwartz doesnt have the robot elevator or clock tower anymore...boring!
4) Tavern on the Green is something you should experience.
5) Check to see if your hotel has a pool, especially if you're going in the summer.
6) Go to a drag show.
7) Use your map, even if you look like a tourist.
8) Learn the direction of the subway train you need, not just the number/color
9) Go to a taped show...we saw David Letterman...lots of fun!
10) The world trade center is a must see...no official monument/memorial there yet but it doesn't need one...you'll remember it like it just happened.
We definitely had a good time but were ready to be home...we missed it!
Seriously, NY had a heat wave while we were there...hottest temps this time in June since the 30s! I would sweat in places that I didn't know had glands. We actually looked forward to our subway rides because the trains are air conditioned unlike most cabs.
I won't give you a rundown of our trip as it'll be boring for you but here is our list of things we learned:
1) You can go up to the top of the empire state bldg until 2am and it's much cooler at night!
2) Grey's Papaya is supposedly the best hot dog in NY but there aren't any in manhattan!
3) FAO Schwartz doesnt have the robot elevator or clock tower anymore...boring!
4) Tavern on the Green is something you should experience.
5) Check to see if your hotel has a pool, especially if you're going in the summer.
6) Go to a drag show.
7) Use your map, even if you look like a tourist.
8) Learn the direction of the subway train you need, not just the number/color
9) Go to a taped show...we saw David Letterman...lots of fun!
10) The world trade center is a must see...no official monument/memorial there yet but it doesn't need one...you'll remember it like it just happened.
We definitely had a good time but were ready to be home...we missed it!
Apple Times v2
Sorry for the delay in additional blogs, I was without internet the rest of the week....so, without further delay:
Disclaimer: If I have attended your wedding ever, please do not be offended as I guarantee that I spoke these same words shortly after your special day.
The wedding we attended on Saturday was one of the most incredible weddings that I've ever attended. We started off the morning driving to and from a vineyard for a bit of wine tasting (yum!) and if I learned one thing this weekend, it's that everyone who travels in their car should have a Garmin...that thing rocks! I digress..
We barely made the wedding shuttle to the semi-formal affair at a winery on a hillside overlooking the river. The wedding was at 5pm and it was EXTREMELY HOT. Poor guys in their coat and tie. After the wedding, we went down to the cocktail hour...I won't go into detail but roasted pig, enourmous canoe of seafood(shrimp, clams and oysters), open bar and an acoustic guitar.
The wedding was a 5 course seated dinner under a draped tent with chandeliers. The coolest thing is that everyone started dancing right after the first course!! We had SUCH a good time and after they ran through the tunnel of sparklers, we all met back at the hotel where we proceeded to stay up until 5am!!! There was drama, yes, but thankfully I was the sane one trying to resolve the issues others were having...not involved with them myself, haha.
Sunday we drove the incredible Taconic Parkway...seriously gorgeous drive but hung over me was not a huge fan of all of the turns, etc.
Sunday afternoon we met my cuz back at the precinct, took a cab to the hotel and took a nap. We hit Times Square, UN, Chrysler Bldg, some random hole in the wall Chinese place and McDonalds that night.
Things we learned.
1) There is always traffic going to the airport, it doesn't matter what time it is.
2) The toll roads in NY aren't toll roads. They're toll bridges..and they are crazy expensive. 5 BUCKS!?! Are you kidding me?
until next time...
MC
Disclaimer: If I have attended your wedding ever, please do not be offended as I guarantee that I spoke these same words shortly after your special day.
The wedding we attended on Saturday was one of the most incredible weddings that I've ever attended. We started off the morning driving to and from a vineyard for a bit of wine tasting (yum!) and if I learned one thing this weekend, it's that everyone who travels in their car should have a Garmin...that thing rocks! I digress..
We barely made the wedding shuttle to the semi-formal affair at a winery on a hillside overlooking the river. The wedding was at 5pm and it was EXTREMELY HOT. Poor guys in their coat and tie. After the wedding, we went down to the cocktail hour...I won't go into detail but roasted pig, enourmous canoe of seafood(shrimp, clams and oysters), open bar and an acoustic guitar.
The wedding was a 5 course seated dinner under a draped tent with chandeliers. The coolest thing is that everyone started dancing right after the first course!! We had SUCH a good time and after they ran through the tunnel of sparklers, we all met back at the hotel where we proceeded to stay up until 5am!!! There was drama, yes, but thankfully I was the sane one trying to resolve the issues others were having...not involved with them myself, haha.
Sunday we drove the incredible Taconic Parkway...seriously gorgeous drive but hung over me was not a huge fan of all of the turns, etc.
Sunday afternoon we met my cuz back at the precinct, took a cab to the hotel and took a nap. We hit Times Square, UN, Chrysler Bldg, some random hole in the wall Chinese place and McDonalds that night.
Things we learned.
1) There is always traffic going to the airport, it doesn't matter what time it is.
2) The toll roads in NY aren't toll roads. They're toll bridges..and they are crazy expensive. 5 BUCKS!?! Are you kidding me?
until next time...
MC
Friday, June 6, 2008
Apple Times v1
So we made it to NY. After an hour delay (thanks American) my cousin picked us up and we proceeded to the 110th Precinct. Here he so easily handed me his keys and expected me to jump in and grab the wheel. *I'm sorry, does he forget that we're in NEW YORK???* At this point I begin to sweat.
My friend Kim meets us at the precinct and being an L.A. gal she immediately doubts my driving abilities. My cousin was kind enough to give us a police escort to the highway. This was not an easy process.....because, you see...there is no room to drive on the street....ANYWHERE!!! This means that you often times drive on the wrong side of the road, pass cars and busses where there is no passing lanes and run red lights. I knew I was not meeting his expectations when he would throw his squad car in reverse, turn on his lights and back up to where I was stuck to then force the other cars out of the way with his NYPD power.
We finally make it to the interstate and I learn two important lessons.
1) In order to survive you must have a Garmin, you must drive fast and you must have no fear.
2) Drivers in New York do not use friendly signals.
When driving in Texas and someone lets you in their lane, yields to you or scoots over when you try to pass them, you are expected to give the thank you wave. I did this today in New York and received the F You bird in response. Apparently they didnt get it that I was thanking them and assumed that my wave was accompanied by "nannie nannie boo boo"
We made it to Poughkeepsie after a stop at Friendly's (a local treat) and quickly learned that this is not any ordinary wedding weekend. These kids can party. Im in the lobby right now with the group and taking a 10 minute breather from drinking. Tomorrow after the shuttle brings us back from the reception, they are also bringing all of the leftover alcohol back here to the lobby and expect us to stay in the lobby until it's gone. (7 bottles of Patron, ridiculously large open bar AND we're touring wineries tomorrow before the wedding.)
If you can find me tomorrow, please bring advil, diet coke and water, thanks!
Stay tuned for more good times in the big apple!
My friend Kim meets us at the precinct and being an L.A. gal she immediately doubts my driving abilities. My cousin was kind enough to give us a police escort to the highway. This was not an easy process.....because, you see...there is no room to drive on the street....ANYWHERE!!! This means that you often times drive on the wrong side of the road, pass cars and busses where there is no passing lanes and run red lights. I knew I was not meeting his expectations when he would throw his squad car in reverse, turn on his lights and back up to where I was stuck to then force the other cars out of the way with his NYPD power.
We finally make it to the interstate and I learn two important lessons.
1) In order to survive you must have a Garmin, you must drive fast and you must have no fear.
2) Drivers in New York do not use friendly signals.
When driving in Texas and someone lets you in their lane, yields to you or scoots over when you try to pass them, you are expected to give the thank you wave. I did this today in New York and received the F You bird in response. Apparently they didnt get it that I was thanking them and assumed that my wave was accompanied by "nannie nannie boo boo"
We made it to Poughkeepsie after a stop at Friendly's (a local treat) and quickly learned that this is not any ordinary wedding weekend. These kids can party. Im in the lobby right now with the group and taking a 10 minute breather from drinking. Tomorrow after the shuttle brings us back from the reception, they are also bringing all of the leftover alcohol back here to the lobby and expect us to stay in the lobby until it's gone. (7 bottles of Patron, ridiculously large open bar AND we're touring wineries tomorrow before the wedding.)
If you can find me tomorrow, please bring advil, diet coke and water, thanks!
Stay tuned for more good times in the big apple!
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