Wednesday, June 28, 2006
Raise Your Arms If You're Sure
Yesterday, I bought Sam his very own anti-perspirant. He was less than thrilled. This morning he asked if he had to use it and groaned when I said yes. He'll be thirteen in thirteen days! Now that I've already bought the anti-perspirant, I need to think of something for his birthday. What do 13 year old boys like?
Sunday, June 25, 2006
Weekend Wrap-up
What a weekend! Could I just have a weekend to recover from this weekend? I really need it, but I'm not going to get it. I'm even working four days this week, so no time to recover during the week either.
Sam had his final tournament. They lost their first game Friday night. It was a tough loss, because we could have won that game, but that is how it goes sometimes. Saturday, we lost again. We kept it close for quite a while, but couldn't hold get enough runs in the end. It didn't help when Sam started off the final inning by injuring the home plate umpire. Sam swung and fouled the ball right back into the ump's throat. He was down very quickly, even twitching at one point. It was a scary situation to watch, but we had several parents in attendance who work in the medical field. An ambulance was called right away. The ump ended up being alright, and the game continued about twenty minutes later, but I think our team was shaken up by the whole thing. Sam struck out, as did the next two batters, and that was the game. We did win our final game today though.
Casey also had his final tournament of the season. They lost their first game by only a couple of runs. I missed that game, but it was apparently a good, close game that could have gone either way. They lost their second game, too. This morning, they soundly won their first game and tied in their final game. Can't complain about a finish like that!
It was a hot weekend for baseball, and the days were long. I'm glad the season is over, but now we are facing the All-Star season. Can you hear the weak enthusiasm in my "voice"? Actually, I am looking forward to the more competitive season. It is a short, busy season, but there is some quality baseball, and my kids are involved! That is exciting!
Casey will be playing Mosquito 'AAA', and Sam will likely be playing PeeWee 'A' now, not 'AA', as we had thought. Well, we had thought that he wasn't going to play All-Stars at all. His coach, and the PeeWee director, talked with Kane, practically begging Sam to play with the 'AA'. Sam is such a consistent batter. They needed his bat. He'd be free to ump during the Valley of Champions tournament. He'd play second base and field. Sam was told all these things and decided that it was enticing enough for him to play. He called his coach. He went to a practice last Thursday. Friday night at his tournament, the assistant coach talked with Kane. Now, we're not so thrilled! Apparently, he has different ideas about Sam than the director. Sam would be in the field or sitting on the bench and would really do better playing in 'A'.
My blood is simmering, I admit it. I am far from impressed by these current events. You're short 'AA' players for All-Stars. You continually ask Sam to play, even promising him certain things. You're going to fill up the roster with players from a neighbouring association. And then, you turn around and tell us something different than what we were already told and give the impression that our son isn't good enough to be on the team. That stinks! Sam didn't want to play. You talk him into it, only to tell him that he's not good enough to be fully utilized, so he should play with the 'A' team. Right. But, you're going to bring in kids that didn't play on our team at all, so you have enough "good" players for your team. Okay. Then, why even bother putting the pressure on Sam to join the team?
To top that, we heard from someone else that one of the players on Sam's team was telling people that Sam was the weakest player on the team. This is the regular season team being talked about. The kid saying this is a good enough player, but he's certainly no better than Sam, and Sam is far from being the weakest player on the team. On the contrary, he's one of the most consistent players on the team. By what criteria is this kid basing Sam's ability by? Pitching? Well, our coaches haven't let Sam pitch really this year. Sam is a consistent pitcher, but he doesn't have the same speed that most of the pitchers have. However, there was one boy on the team who has pitched a fair bit whose pitches are no harder or faster than Sam's. Sam's been relegated to the outfield, second base, and the occasion stint at third. He's made far fewer errors than everyone else on the team. Sam doesn't always have a big hit, but he manages to get on base more often than not, and he can hit a decent ball. How does any of this make Sam a weak player? The weakest? But, I guess I shouldn't be surprised. I'm quite sure that this comment or attitude has been nurtured by this boy's mother, because, of course, her son is a wonder child.
So, Kane and I no longer want Sam to play 'AA' All-Stars this year. Why play with a team when the coach doesn't want you? Why play when the coach is promising you a nice piece of sod in the outfield and a piece of bench? Why subject your son to all that when the 'A' coaches are also courting you, and they would love to have you pitch and catch and play all the positions? Why let yourself be treated as a second class player, when the 'A' coaches would treat you like a star? Sam now wants to play 'A'. Quelle surprise! He would have so much more fun, and he would learn so much more. Plus, perhaps the biggest bonus of them all, the Provincials for 'A' are being held here in Kelowna! Not only would he be able to play at the Provincials, perhaps the chance of a lifetime, but he doesn't have to leave home to do it!
As I type, Kane is talking to the PeeWee director on the phone. He is telling him that Sam no longer wants to play with the 'AA' team but the 'A' team. I wonder how that conversation will go. In general, I think the director has done a decent job, and I think he is a good coach. However, he seemed to basically hand the reins over to his assistant coach (and good friend) for most of the season. The assistant coach played things very politically, and I've not been impressed by that at all. The one weekend that the assistant coach was away and the director actually ran the show, there was such a difference all around. The kids seemed lighter and more relaxed. The positions were rotated much more, and the batting order changed quite a bit, too.
I hate sport politics. I hate politics, in general. Unfortunately, there is no escaping from either, and the older the kids get, the more political their sports get. Sad but true.
Sam had his final tournament. They lost their first game Friday night. It was a tough loss, because we could have won that game, but that is how it goes sometimes. Saturday, we lost again. We kept it close for quite a while, but couldn't hold get enough runs in the end. It didn't help when Sam started off the final inning by injuring the home plate umpire. Sam swung and fouled the ball right back into the ump's throat. He was down very quickly, even twitching at one point. It was a scary situation to watch, but we had several parents in attendance who work in the medical field. An ambulance was called right away. The ump ended up being alright, and the game continued about twenty minutes later, but I think our team was shaken up by the whole thing. Sam struck out, as did the next two batters, and that was the game. We did win our final game today though.
Casey also had his final tournament of the season. They lost their first game by only a couple of runs. I missed that game, but it was apparently a good, close game that could have gone either way. They lost their second game, too. This morning, they soundly won their first game and tied in their final game. Can't complain about a finish like that!
It was a hot weekend for baseball, and the days were long. I'm glad the season is over, but now we are facing the All-Star season. Can you hear the weak enthusiasm in my "voice"? Actually, I am looking forward to the more competitive season. It is a short, busy season, but there is some quality baseball, and my kids are involved! That is exciting!
Casey will be playing Mosquito 'AAA', and Sam will likely be playing PeeWee 'A' now, not 'AA', as we had thought. Well, we had thought that he wasn't going to play All-Stars at all. His coach, and the PeeWee director, talked with Kane, practically begging Sam to play with the 'AA'. Sam is such a consistent batter. They needed his bat. He'd be free to ump during the Valley of Champions tournament. He'd play second base and field. Sam was told all these things and decided that it was enticing enough for him to play. He called his coach. He went to a practice last Thursday. Friday night at his tournament, the assistant coach talked with Kane. Now, we're not so thrilled! Apparently, he has different ideas about Sam than the director. Sam would be in the field or sitting on the bench and would really do better playing in 'A'.
My blood is simmering, I admit it. I am far from impressed by these current events. You're short 'AA' players for All-Stars. You continually ask Sam to play, even promising him certain things. You're going to fill up the roster with players from a neighbouring association. And then, you turn around and tell us something different than what we were already told and give the impression that our son isn't good enough to be on the team. That stinks! Sam didn't want to play. You talk him into it, only to tell him that he's not good enough to be fully utilized, so he should play with the 'A' team. Right. But, you're going to bring in kids that didn't play on our team at all, so you have enough "good" players for your team. Okay. Then, why even bother putting the pressure on Sam to join the team?
To top that, we heard from someone else that one of the players on Sam's team was telling people that Sam was the weakest player on the team. This is the regular season team being talked about. The kid saying this is a good enough player, but he's certainly no better than Sam, and Sam is far from being the weakest player on the team. On the contrary, he's one of the most consistent players on the team. By what criteria is this kid basing Sam's ability by? Pitching? Well, our coaches haven't let Sam pitch really this year. Sam is a consistent pitcher, but he doesn't have the same speed that most of the pitchers have. However, there was one boy on the team who has pitched a fair bit whose pitches are no harder or faster than Sam's. Sam's been relegated to the outfield, second base, and the occasion stint at third. He's made far fewer errors than everyone else on the team. Sam doesn't always have a big hit, but he manages to get on base more often than not, and he can hit a decent ball. How does any of this make Sam a weak player? The weakest? But, I guess I shouldn't be surprised. I'm quite sure that this comment or attitude has been nurtured by this boy's mother, because, of course, her son is a wonder child.
So, Kane and I no longer want Sam to play 'AA' All-Stars this year. Why play with a team when the coach doesn't want you? Why play when the coach is promising you a nice piece of sod in the outfield and a piece of bench? Why subject your son to all that when the 'A' coaches are also courting you, and they would love to have you pitch and catch and play all the positions? Why let yourself be treated as a second class player, when the 'A' coaches would treat you like a star? Sam now wants to play 'A'. Quelle surprise! He would have so much more fun, and he would learn so much more. Plus, perhaps the biggest bonus of them all, the Provincials for 'A' are being held here in Kelowna! Not only would he be able to play at the Provincials, perhaps the chance of a lifetime, but he doesn't have to leave home to do it!
As I type, Kane is talking to the PeeWee director on the phone. He is telling him that Sam no longer wants to play with the 'AA' team but the 'A' team. I wonder how that conversation will go. In general, I think the director has done a decent job, and I think he is a good coach. However, he seemed to basically hand the reins over to his assistant coach (and good friend) for most of the season. The assistant coach played things very politically, and I've not been impressed by that at all. The one weekend that the assistant coach was away and the director actually ran the show, there was such a difference all around. The kids seemed lighter and more relaxed. The positions were rotated much more, and the batting order changed quite a bit, too.
I hate sport politics. I hate politics, in general. Unfortunately, there is no escaping from either, and the older the kids get, the more political their sports get. Sad but true.
Thursday, June 22, 2006
Change of Plans
So, it turns out that we may have two boys playing All-Star baseball this year after all. Are we ready for that?!
Sam played Mosquito 'AA' All-Star ball two years ago. It was a love/hate kind of season with an obnoxious coach and no fun allowed. While Sam still loved playing ball, the All-Star experience was ruined for him.
Last summer, we made the executive decision that only one child could play All-Stars, as we couldn't afford the money or time to have both playing. Sam wasn't interested in playing, but Casey was. Instead, Sam continued to ump and racked up a lot of money in the process. Casey played on the Mosquito 'A' team and had a great time. Our association hosted the Mosquito 'A' Provincials, so he had the privilege of playing in that tournament.
It was rather amusing during the try-out process last year. We had so many kids and parents ask us why Sam wasn't trying out for the PeeWee All-Star team. The coach was almost begging Sam to come out to play, but he refused. Up until yesterday, we all thought that this summer would follow the same pattern as last summer. Sam would ump, and Casey would play All-Star ball. End of story. Right?
The PeeWees have already had a couple of try-out practices; however, attendance has not been as expected. In fact, they haven't had enough interest to field both a 'AA' and 'A' team. Once again, we have been asked why Sam isn't trying out. We've given the same answer as before...Sam would rather make money by umping.
Last night, the PeeWee director once again talked with Kane about Sam playing All-Stars. This time, he brought out the big guns! He was willing to let Sam have the Valley of Champions tournament weekend off in order to ump, but he would need Sam to commit to Zones and Provincials to play. Sam could travel with his family to Provincials on the Island. However, he also made it clear that Sam would not be able to pitch or play catcher. Instead, he would play second base and outfield. What he really wanted Sam so desperately for is Sam's ability to bat and get on base.
So, we explained the proposal to Sam last night and asked him what he thought. To my surprise, he jumped at it! We reiterated the limitations he'd be facing. We questioned his sincerity and motivation. Did he truly want to play? Or, was he just saying that because his coach wanted him to play? He would not be shaken. In fact, he even phoned his coach last night to say that he was now interested in doing All-Stars. Hmmm.
It is not too late to change his mind. Officially, the All-Star teams cannot be selected until after the spring season is over, and that isn't until after the coming weekend. They do have a practice tonight, so Sam will go to that. After, we'll grill him again. Does he really want to do this?
We could tell him that he cannot play. Having two in All-Stars will keep us very busy. While the possibility is highly remote, there is a chance that Abby could be playing in an all-girls team as well. I can't imagine all three playing ball for the month of July! Honestly, I think I would go insane, but it is more likely that we would just have the boys playing. Even then, we will need the month of August to recuperate, I think.
We could tell Sam no. It was easy to do that last year; he wasn't wanting to play anyway. Suddenly, it has become more difficult to say no. He's needed and wanted and might have the opportunity to play at Provincials. How many kids can say they've done that? It's an opportunity that can either be grabbed onto with both hands or simply pass by. Too many hoped for opportunities never even enter our horizon. You have got to grab it while it's here.
Go for it, Sam!
Sam played Mosquito 'AA' All-Star ball two years ago. It was a love/hate kind of season with an obnoxious coach and no fun allowed. While Sam still loved playing ball, the All-Star experience was ruined for him.
Last summer, we made the executive decision that only one child could play All-Stars, as we couldn't afford the money or time to have both playing. Sam wasn't interested in playing, but Casey was. Instead, Sam continued to ump and racked up a lot of money in the process. Casey played on the Mosquito 'A' team and had a great time. Our association hosted the Mosquito 'A' Provincials, so he had the privilege of playing in that tournament.
It was rather amusing during the try-out process last year. We had so many kids and parents ask us why Sam wasn't trying out for the PeeWee All-Star team. The coach was almost begging Sam to come out to play, but he refused. Up until yesterday, we all thought that this summer would follow the same pattern as last summer. Sam would ump, and Casey would play All-Star ball. End of story. Right?
The PeeWees have already had a couple of try-out practices; however, attendance has not been as expected. In fact, they haven't had enough interest to field both a 'AA' and 'A' team. Once again, we have been asked why Sam isn't trying out. We've given the same answer as before...Sam would rather make money by umping.
Last night, the PeeWee director once again talked with Kane about Sam playing All-Stars. This time, he brought out the big guns! He was willing to let Sam have the Valley of Champions tournament weekend off in order to ump, but he would need Sam to commit to Zones and Provincials to play. Sam could travel with his family to Provincials on the Island. However, he also made it clear that Sam would not be able to pitch or play catcher. Instead, he would play second base and outfield. What he really wanted Sam so desperately for is Sam's ability to bat and get on base.
So, we explained the proposal to Sam last night and asked him what he thought. To my surprise, he jumped at it! We reiterated the limitations he'd be facing. We questioned his sincerity and motivation. Did he truly want to play? Or, was he just saying that because his coach wanted him to play? He would not be shaken. In fact, he even phoned his coach last night to say that he was now interested in doing All-Stars. Hmmm.
It is not too late to change his mind. Officially, the All-Star teams cannot be selected until after the spring season is over, and that isn't until after the coming weekend. They do have a practice tonight, so Sam will go to that. After, we'll grill him again. Does he really want to do this?
We could tell him that he cannot play. Having two in All-Stars will keep us very busy. While the possibility is highly remote, there is a chance that Abby could be playing in an all-girls team as well. I can't imagine all three playing ball for the month of July! Honestly, I think I would go insane, but it is more likely that we would just have the boys playing. Even then, we will need the month of August to recuperate, I think.
We could tell Sam no. It was easy to do that last year; he wasn't wanting to play anyway. Suddenly, it has become more difficult to say no. He's needed and wanted and might have the opportunity to play at Provincials. How many kids can say they've done that? It's an opportunity that can either be grabbed onto with both hands or simply pass by. Too many hoped for opportunities never even enter our horizon. You have got to grab it while it's here.
Go for it, Sam!
Tuesday, June 20, 2006
This is me
I Don't Know How by Margaret Becker
Feels like it's all gone crazy
Lying here tonight
Just can't work it out
And I wish that You were nearer now
So I could feel You by my side 'cause
I know You'll make it all right
chorus:
And I don't know how
Anybody goes without something to believe in
I don't know why we do
And I don't know how
Anybody finds their way without something to believe in
I just know I need You
And I don't know what I'd do without You
Where I'd go
To find some kind of a peace
'Cause even when the night comes down
And I find it hard to breathe
I still feel You're right here with me
chorus
And slipping through my curtains
Is a light coming off the street
Right now it's the only light I see
And even on the nights like this
When I'm driven to my knees
I run to You and I know
You cover me
chorus
Feels like it's all gone crazy
Lying here tonight
Just can't work it out
And I wish that You were nearer now
So I could feel You by my side 'cause
I know You'll make it all right
chorus:
And I don't know how
Anybody goes without something to believe in
I don't know why we do
And I don't know how
Anybody finds their way without something to believe in
I just know I need You
And I don't know what I'd do without You
Where I'd go
To find some kind of a peace
'Cause even when the night comes down
And I find it hard to breathe
I still feel You're right here with me
chorus
And slipping through my curtains
Is a light coming off the street
Right now it's the only light I see
And even on the nights like this
When I'm driven to my knees
I run to You and I know
You cover me
chorus
Sunday, June 18, 2006
Heavy Heart
Progress is in short supply when it comes to the bowel battle with Abby. We've been giving her Senekot for several days now, and even though it is quite disgusting, she has become fairly quick at taking it. But, no results worth noting. We don't know when she last had a significant bowel movement which is cause for concern...and action.
I popped into the health food store between ballgames this morning in search of another natural laxative of which I've heard positive reports. A helpful clerk noted my distressed face and offered her service to me. I should have taken that opportunity to run in the opposite direction. When I told her what I was looking for Cascara in a liquid form, she pointed me towards the capsules, which were not what I was looking for. Of course, then I had to explain why I really wanted a liquid and not the capsules. I should have known better than to open that door. Her immediate response was, "Oh! I wouldn't give that to my child, if I were you!" The next fifteen minutes are somewhat hazy in my mind. Truth be told, as soon as she made that initial comment, I knew that I was in for a lecture and basically shut off my brain. It wasn't that she was rude or uncaring. It wasn't even that she didn't have useful information to share. On the contrary, she was informative and seemed as if she wanted to help; I just don't know how helpful she really was. It is easy for a stranger to say that we don't need to give Abby such a strong laxative, but does that stranger fully comprehend what we're dealing with? This is not a case of feeling a little constipated this morning. To put it quite bluntly, I don't think that Abby has pooped more than the size of a walnut in over a week. It could even be two weeks. Does that sound like routine constipation? I don't think so.
I did end up buying the Cascara in capsule form, but I also walked out with a few samples of what the clerk recommended I use instead. I gave her one sample today. It tasted good, she liked it, but we haven't seen any action yet.
After the health food store, I walked into Save-On Foods to purchase an enema. I didn't want to make that purchase, but we know from experience that laxatives alone won't do the trick. Until the blockage is cleared, the laxative only does so much.
Tonight, after coming home from a great weekend of baseball, Abby had a shower and watched a documentary on elephants; her favourite animal. Then, it was time for the enema. I gently explained the process to her, and she burst into tears. My heart shattered into a million pieces. While I administered the enema, Abby bawled and bawled, and it was all I could do to keep myself from bawling, too.
Nothing. No progress. No change. I hated what I had to do to my little girl, and it was seemingly all for naught. My tears come now, knowing that this terrible thing will need to be repeated, and we'll need to use suppositories. My daughter will cry many tears, and I will be unable to do anything but join her.
I popped into the health food store between ballgames this morning in search of another natural laxative of which I've heard positive reports. A helpful clerk noted my distressed face and offered her service to me. I should have taken that opportunity to run in the opposite direction. When I told her what I was looking for Cascara in a liquid form, she pointed me towards the capsules, which were not what I was looking for. Of course, then I had to explain why I really wanted a liquid and not the capsules. I should have known better than to open that door. Her immediate response was, "Oh! I wouldn't give that to my child, if I were you!" The next fifteen minutes are somewhat hazy in my mind. Truth be told, as soon as she made that initial comment, I knew that I was in for a lecture and basically shut off my brain. It wasn't that she was rude or uncaring. It wasn't even that she didn't have useful information to share. On the contrary, she was informative and seemed as if she wanted to help; I just don't know how helpful she really was. It is easy for a stranger to say that we don't need to give Abby such a strong laxative, but does that stranger fully comprehend what we're dealing with? This is not a case of feeling a little constipated this morning. To put it quite bluntly, I don't think that Abby has pooped more than the size of a walnut in over a week. It could even be two weeks. Does that sound like routine constipation? I don't think so.
I did end up buying the Cascara in capsule form, but I also walked out with a few samples of what the clerk recommended I use instead. I gave her one sample today. It tasted good, she liked it, but we haven't seen any action yet.
After the health food store, I walked into Save-On Foods to purchase an enema. I didn't want to make that purchase, but we know from experience that laxatives alone won't do the trick. Until the blockage is cleared, the laxative only does so much.
Tonight, after coming home from a great weekend of baseball, Abby had a shower and watched a documentary on elephants; her favourite animal. Then, it was time for the enema. I gently explained the process to her, and she burst into tears. My heart shattered into a million pieces. While I administered the enema, Abby bawled and bawled, and it was all I could do to keep myself from bawling, too.
Nothing. No progress. No change. I hated what I had to do to my little girl, and it was seemingly all for naught. My tears come now, knowing that this terrible thing will need to be repeated, and we'll need to use suppositories. My daughter will cry many tears, and I will be unable to do anything but join her.
Tuesday, June 13, 2006
Casey
Casey doing the long jump.
June 7, 2006
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike2.5 Canada License.
Sam
Sam pitching
June 2006
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike2.5 Canada License.
Poppies
June 13, 2006In my front yard
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike2.5 Canada License.
Abby
June 2006
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike2.5 Canada License.
Drive-Thru Etiquette for Dummies
Having worked in a drive-thru eons ago at McDonalds and now at Tim Horton's, I have often been amused and frustrated by the customers; I could write a book, but instead I'll just make a helpful list.
1. Don't pull into a drive-thru while you are in the midst of a cellphone conversation that cannot be put on hold. Please don't tell the restaurant employee to wait until you finish your conversation; you're holding up the line.
2. If you drive a big, diesel truck, it would be helpful to shut your truck off while ordering. Believe it or not, but it is quite difficult for the drive-thru employee to hear your order over the noise of your truck. In fact, it is also difficult to hear the order before and after your truck, too.
3. It is helpful to know what you want to order before attempting to order. We don't read minds, and if you say that you want a black coffee, no sugar, that is what you will get. How are we supposed to know that you really meant a coffee with cream and no sugar? Say what you mean and mean what you say.
4. Please don't get short with us when we are required to ask you questions about your order. We want you to receive exactly what you want, so we need to ask whether your sandwich is on white or whole wheat bread or what kind of donut you would like.
5. Likewise, if we read your order back to you, we do so for your benefit and not to waste your precious time. Take the time to actually listen to us as we read back your order; it could save a lot of hassle and make sure you get what you wanted.
6. When you pull up to the order board, there is no need to shout out, "Heeelllooo!" as if there was nobody home. Also, if we welcome you and ask you to wait for just a few seconds, please don't proceed to rattle off your order. We typically don't ask you to wait for the fun of it. Usually, our hands might be full, or we might be in the process of talking with another customer.
7. If you are ordering meals for half a dozen people, please consider coming into the restaurant to order. No matter how fast our service, such a large order still takes time to place and prepare. Really, you're not saving yourself any time by using the drive-thru.
8. There is a garbage can a few feet from the drive-thru window. Please use it instead of asking us to handle your garbage. Should we pass our garbage out the window for you to dispose of?
9. Unless you are married to the person serving you, there really is no need to call them "sweetheart" or "darling" or any other word expressing familiarity and affection.
10. Remember to stop at the order board to place your order! It is easy to see how you might forget to do so, but shouldn't you be paying better attention when you're driving? Failing to place your order at the order board can cause confusion, because your order isn't in the proper queue. You might not want to pay for and receive the order behind you.
11. If after taking your money, we tell you that part of your order is on its' way, please do not drive away without it!
12. Breathe when you place your order. There is no need to say a largedoubledoubletwoextralargetripletriplesablueberrybageltoastedwithstrawberrycreamcheeseandahoneycruller all in one breath! Not to mention that taking a few breaths also makes it easier for us to hear every item you order.
13. If we're busy and food preparation is slow, please be patient. We understand your frustration; we feel it ourselves, but remember that you're still getting your meal in good time. Would you rather have your sandwich made incorrectly in 30 seconds or correctly in two minutes?
14. When you are waiting in line, why not count out the change that you're going to pay with? We don't mind your handful of quarters, nickels and dimes, but maybe count it before you get to the window. If you're waiting for the car in front of you to receive his order, you may as well be productive.
15. Using a drive-thru loses its' meaning when you need to get out of your vehicle to pay the cashier and pick up your food.
16. Back to the large diesel trucks...if you are kind enough to shut off your truck while ordering, please warn us before starting it back up. We value our hearing.
17. Please do not order from the passenger or back seat of the vehicle. You should realize that it is difficult to hear someone ordering from these positions. You wouldn't think so, but it is.
18. You might think it is cute to let your dog lurch out your window in hopes of a goodie, but do you really want the hands that touch your food to be touching an animal?
19. Driving with kids can be frustrating sometimes, but try not to yell at your kids while at the order board. We can hear them and you. Background noise really interferes with our ability to hear through the headsets. It doesn't matter whether that noise is a crying child, music, a loud truck, or nearby construction.
20. Speak up and speak clearly.
21. Know which drive-thru you're at. You look foolish for ordering a Big Mac at Tim Horton's. A Tim Horton's employee might not know what size you are referring to when you say "tall" or "venti" or "grande".
22. When we ask you if you would like anything else, be clear in your response. If you say no, mean no. If you say yes, then continue ordering.
23. When ordering at the drive-thru, there is no need to ask for your order "to go". That's kind of the purpose of a drive-thru.
24. If you're at a donut shop, don't be surprised that they don't have ketchup! Make your requests reasonable. Your servers aren't miracle workers.
25. The person serving you may only be working for minimum wage at a fast food restaurant, but they are still people. They work hard and deserve to be treated with respect and courtesy. If you do, you'll find the service that much better!
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike2.5 Canada License.
1. Don't pull into a drive-thru while you are in the midst of a cellphone conversation that cannot be put on hold. Please don't tell the restaurant employee to wait until you finish your conversation; you're holding up the line.
2. If you drive a big, diesel truck, it would be helpful to shut your truck off while ordering. Believe it or not, but it is quite difficult for the drive-thru employee to hear your order over the noise of your truck. In fact, it is also difficult to hear the order before and after your truck, too.
3. It is helpful to know what you want to order before attempting to order. We don't read minds, and if you say that you want a black coffee, no sugar, that is what you will get. How are we supposed to know that you really meant a coffee with cream and no sugar? Say what you mean and mean what you say.
4. Please don't get short with us when we are required to ask you questions about your order. We want you to receive exactly what you want, so we need to ask whether your sandwich is on white or whole wheat bread or what kind of donut you would like.
5. Likewise, if we read your order back to you, we do so for your benefit and not to waste your precious time. Take the time to actually listen to us as we read back your order; it could save a lot of hassle and make sure you get what you wanted.
6. When you pull up to the order board, there is no need to shout out, "Heeelllooo!" as if there was nobody home. Also, if we welcome you and ask you to wait for just a few seconds, please don't proceed to rattle off your order. We typically don't ask you to wait for the fun of it. Usually, our hands might be full, or we might be in the process of talking with another customer.
7. If you are ordering meals for half a dozen people, please consider coming into the restaurant to order. No matter how fast our service, such a large order still takes time to place and prepare. Really, you're not saving yourself any time by using the drive-thru.
8. There is a garbage can a few feet from the drive-thru window. Please use it instead of asking us to handle your garbage. Should we pass our garbage out the window for you to dispose of?
9. Unless you are married to the person serving you, there really is no need to call them "sweetheart" or "darling" or any other word expressing familiarity and affection.
10. Remember to stop at the order board to place your order! It is easy to see how you might forget to do so, but shouldn't you be paying better attention when you're driving? Failing to place your order at the order board can cause confusion, because your order isn't in the proper queue. You might not want to pay for and receive the order behind you.
11. If after taking your money, we tell you that part of your order is on its' way, please do not drive away without it!
12. Breathe when you place your order. There is no need to say a largedoubledoubletwoextralargetripletriplesablueberrybageltoastedwithstrawberrycreamcheeseandahoneycruller all in one breath! Not to mention that taking a few breaths also makes it easier for us to hear every item you order.
13. If we're busy and food preparation is slow, please be patient. We understand your frustration; we feel it ourselves, but remember that you're still getting your meal in good time. Would you rather have your sandwich made incorrectly in 30 seconds or correctly in two minutes?
14. When you are waiting in line, why not count out the change that you're going to pay with? We don't mind your handful of quarters, nickels and dimes, but maybe count it before you get to the window. If you're waiting for the car in front of you to receive his order, you may as well be productive.
15. Using a drive-thru loses its' meaning when you need to get out of your vehicle to pay the cashier and pick up your food.
16. Back to the large diesel trucks...if you are kind enough to shut off your truck while ordering, please warn us before starting it back up. We value our hearing.
17. Please do not order from the passenger or back seat of the vehicle. You should realize that it is difficult to hear someone ordering from these positions. You wouldn't think so, but it is.
18. You might think it is cute to let your dog lurch out your window in hopes of a goodie, but do you really want the hands that touch your food to be touching an animal?
19. Driving with kids can be frustrating sometimes, but try not to yell at your kids while at the order board. We can hear them and you. Background noise really interferes with our ability to hear through the headsets. It doesn't matter whether that noise is a crying child, music, a loud truck, or nearby construction.
20. Speak up and speak clearly.
21. Know which drive-thru you're at. You look foolish for ordering a Big Mac at Tim Horton's. A Tim Horton's employee might not know what size you are referring to when you say "tall" or "venti" or "grande".
22. When we ask you if you would like anything else, be clear in your response. If you say no, mean no. If you say yes, then continue ordering.
23. When ordering at the drive-thru, there is no need to ask for your order "to go". That's kind of the purpose of a drive-thru.
24. If you're at a donut shop, don't be surprised that they don't have ketchup! Make your requests reasonable. Your servers aren't miracle workers.
25. The person serving you may only be working for minimum wage at a fast food restaurant, but they are still people. They work hard and deserve to be treated with respect and courtesy. If you do, you'll find the service that much better!
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike2.5 Canada License.
Monday, June 12, 2006
Heavyweight
I have a killer headache gathering forces inside my head. So much is going on, yet so much remains the same. It's been a day!
My boss has seen fit to hire at least four employees who have reached, at most, the tender age of 14. I'm not completely sure of all the ages, but I do know that one is 13 (the same age as my Sam!). We're desperate for new employees. The "help wanted" signs have been in place for months, but are we really that desperate? They are great kids, well mannered and bright. All homeschooled, so they are able to work during the day. Still, I just can't imagine sending Sam off to Tim Horton's for a part-time job. Perhaps if they were simply washing dishes and clearing tables, but they aren't. They are working the front counter, the drive-thru, and the sandwich bar. We have adult women who struggle on the sandwich bar, because it can be a highly demanding work station. Customers, whether in drive-thru or in-store, can be rude and belligerent at times, enough to stress adult employees. How can a young teen handle that stress? Why should they have to?!
Thankfully, work issues and stress can be shed as I exit the restaurant door. Other issues just can't be so easily ignored. For a long time, there has been a dark shadow off in the distance warning of impending doom. Sounds so lovely, doesn't it. When Casey was 3, he had encopresis. In a nutshell, encopresis is extreme impaction and constipation. Chronic. Some people manage to "cure" themselves or outgrow it, others suffer through it for the rest of their lives. For over a year, Casey had regular visits with a pediatrician. There were daily enemas, suppositories, and laxatives for months. It was not a fun time, but it passed. Casey has been problem-free for a long time now. However, there have been times over the years when we have been concerned that Abby may be following in her brother's footsteps. We'd be concerned for a while, and then things would seem to be okay. Lately though, things are looking less rosy and more gloomy by the minute.
The warning signs are beginning to shout at us, and I'm left wishing with all my heart to avoid traveling this road again. I don't want to go through this another time, too much was taken out of me the first time. I don't want to take my daughter to a doctor for formal treatment; it was bad enough watching Casey endure the embarrassment and discomfort of rectal exams. How could I put my little girl through that? I don't want to feel incompetent in my parenting, because others don't understand the problem. I don't know that I could deal with doctors and nurses that don't understand the problem. Been there, done that!
So, we need to take steps to nip this in the bud. Regardless of whether we treat it ourselves or seek medical help, this is a long haul kind of issue. It can't be cured overnight or in a weekend; months is more likely.
My boss has seen fit to hire at least four employees who have reached, at most, the tender age of 14. I'm not completely sure of all the ages, but I do know that one is 13 (the same age as my Sam!). We're desperate for new employees. The "help wanted" signs have been in place for months, but are we really that desperate? They are great kids, well mannered and bright. All homeschooled, so they are able to work during the day. Still, I just can't imagine sending Sam off to Tim Horton's for a part-time job. Perhaps if they were simply washing dishes and clearing tables, but they aren't. They are working the front counter, the drive-thru, and the sandwich bar. We have adult women who struggle on the sandwich bar, because it can be a highly demanding work station. Customers, whether in drive-thru or in-store, can be rude and belligerent at times, enough to stress adult employees. How can a young teen handle that stress? Why should they have to?!
Thankfully, work issues and stress can be shed as I exit the restaurant door. Other issues just can't be so easily ignored. For a long time, there has been a dark shadow off in the distance warning of impending doom. Sounds so lovely, doesn't it. When Casey was 3, he had encopresis. In a nutshell, encopresis is extreme impaction and constipation. Chronic. Some people manage to "cure" themselves or outgrow it, others suffer through it for the rest of their lives. For over a year, Casey had regular visits with a pediatrician. There were daily enemas, suppositories, and laxatives for months. It was not a fun time, but it passed. Casey has been problem-free for a long time now. However, there have been times over the years when we have been concerned that Abby may be following in her brother's footsteps. We'd be concerned for a while, and then things would seem to be okay. Lately though, things are looking less rosy and more gloomy by the minute.
The warning signs are beginning to shout at us, and I'm left wishing with all my heart to avoid traveling this road again. I don't want to go through this another time, too much was taken out of me the first time. I don't want to take my daughter to a doctor for formal treatment; it was bad enough watching Casey endure the embarrassment and discomfort of rectal exams. How could I put my little girl through that? I don't want to feel incompetent in my parenting, because others don't understand the problem. I don't know that I could deal with doctors and nurses that don't understand the problem. Been there, done that!
So, we need to take steps to nip this in the bud. Regardless of whether we treat it ourselves or seek medical help, this is a long haul kind of issue. It can't be cured overnight or in a weekend; months is more likely.
Sunday, June 11, 2006
The Umpire Strikes Back
My son the umpire.This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike2.5 Canada License.
Carrying a Grudge
Casey went to a friend's house for a sleepover yesterday. We picked him up at 8:00am, because he had a baseball game at 9:00am. His friend's mom had Casey ready for us and assured us that he had received plenty of sleep. Past experience has shown us that Casey typically sleeps very little at a sleepover, and we all know how a lack of sleep affects his attitude and ability to function.
As we drove to the ballpark, Casey proudly informed us that he and his friend had watched the movie, The Grudge last night. I think my eyeballs popped out of their sockets! We have several movie channels on our cable package, so I've seen parts of The Grudge, both the original Japanese version and the American remake. Frankly, I'm not a big fan of horror movies or anything along that line, and we most definitely would not let our kids watch that type of a movie. We've had that conversation with our kids before, especially Casey, as he is the type of kid that desperately seeks approval and attention, even to the point of doing something he knows is wrong if his friends are doing it.
Peer pressure is something that parents need to be aware of. We certainly are aware of the potential, and we pray and try to take proactive steps to prevent it or, at the least, lessen the effects. Sam is a rather independent soul, not as quick to follow the crowd. I don't know that Sam would necessarily always speak up for himself or what he believes, but I do trust Sam to make the right choice more often than not. Casey is on the opposite end of the spectrum; he is quick to follow, and that concerns me.
Kane is going to talk with the mom of Casey's friend; apparently, she was well aware of the movie the boys were watching. Situations like this are the reason why I much prefer my kids to play at our house when with friends from school. The original plan was for Casey's friend to come sleepover here. I don't know how or why that changed; I was out for six hours yesterday watching Sam ump a ballgame. When I came home around 2pm, Casey was already gone.
Of course, despite being told that Casey had plenty of sleep, he has been tired and cranky all day long. He held up well during his ballgame, but that was first thing this morning. By the time we were driving back home, he was snarky and ornery. The "happy" mood continued for the rest of the day. Thankfully, he is now in bed, and there is only silence down the hall towards the bedrooms. I'm not sure how much more attitude I could have taken today. Am I really ready for summer break in just a few more weeks?!
I am rather irritated about the Grudge thing. Just watching parts of the trailer for that movie freaked me out, and I'm not easily grossed or freaked out. Casey does tend to get more emotional, especially at bedtime, after watching movie with intense or scary scenes. He knows better. He does! Just a couple of weeks ago, we were watching something on TV...I can't even remember what it was, but there was a scene that was a little intense. Casey immediately covered his eyes, and I was so proud of him for realizing his limits and taking steps to protect himself. Obviously, being with his friend over-rode any build-in safety parameters he had built up in his brain. Guess I'll be praying tonight for sweet dreams for Casey.
As we drove to the ballpark, Casey proudly informed us that he and his friend had watched the movie, The Grudge last night. I think my eyeballs popped out of their sockets! We have several movie channels on our cable package, so I've seen parts of The Grudge, both the original Japanese version and the American remake. Frankly, I'm not a big fan of horror movies or anything along that line, and we most definitely would not let our kids watch that type of a movie. We've had that conversation with our kids before, especially Casey, as he is the type of kid that desperately seeks approval and attention, even to the point of doing something he knows is wrong if his friends are doing it.
Peer pressure is something that parents need to be aware of. We certainly are aware of the potential, and we pray and try to take proactive steps to prevent it or, at the least, lessen the effects. Sam is a rather independent soul, not as quick to follow the crowd. I don't know that Sam would necessarily always speak up for himself or what he believes, but I do trust Sam to make the right choice more often than not. Casey is on the opposite end of the spectrum; he is quick to follow, and that concerns me.
Kane is going to talk with the mom of Casey's friend; apparently, she was well aware of the movie the boys were watching. Situations like this are the reason why I much prefer my kids to play at our house when with friends from school. The original plan was for Casey's friend to come sleepover here. I don't know how or why that changed; I was out for six hours yesterday watching Sam ump a ballgame. When I came home around 2pm, Casey was already gone.
Of course, despite being told that Casey had plenty of sleep, he has been tired and cranky all day long. He held up well during his ballgame, but that was first thing this morning. By the time we were driving back home, he was snarky and ornery. The "happy" mood continued for the rest of the day. Thankfully, he is now in bed, and there is only silence down the hall towards the bedrooms. I'm not sure how much more attitude I could have taken today. Am I really ready for summer break in just a few more weeks?!
I am rather irritated about the Grudge thing. Just watching parts of the trailer for that movie freaked me out, and I'm not easily grossed or freaked out. Casey does tend to get more emotional, especially at bedtime, after watching movie with intense or scary scenes. He knows better. He does! Just a couple of weeks ago, we were watching something on TV...I can't even remember what it was, but there was a scene that was a little intense. Casey immediately covered his eyes, and I was so proud of him for realizing his limits and taking steps to protect himself. Obviously, being with his friend over-rode any build-in safety parameters he had built up in his brain. Guess I'll be praying tonight for sweet dreams for Casey.
Saturday, June 10, 2006
Hair Today, Gone Tomorrow
My mom had some prints made from photos on her digital camera, including several photos that I had taken. Both pictures here are of Casey. The top photo was taken mere minutes before I buzzed his hair in March. The bottom photo was taken shortly after the "buzz". He didn't immediately like the change, and while I do think his longer locks fit him perfectly, I quite like my little boy with short hair, too. Either way, hair grows, and he can grow it longer once again after the summer's heat has given way to the chill of winter.
Friday, June 09, 2006
Brushing Up
After nearly two hours at the dentist yesterday, all three of my children were declared cavity-free and sported freshly cleaned and fluoride-treated teeth. Casey has had two spacers in his mouth for a few years now, because he had two badly decayed baby teeth pulled well before their time. He has complained about those spacers ever since they were first put in. He can't chew gum. They hurt or they wiggle. So, I reminded Casey to talk to the dentist about the one spacer that has given him the most trouble. It was quite loose, so the dentist removed it with the idea of replacing it with a new and improved version in a couple of weeks. Never one to be happy with where he's at, Casey immediately began complaining about his lack of a spacer! It feels weird to not have it. He likes his spacers and wants it back.
Good grief! I hope he realizes that he won't have those spacers in his mouth forever. Eventually, the time will come for the permanent teeth to erupt, leaving no room nor need for spacers.
Good grief! I hope he realizes that he won't have those spacers in his mouth forever. Eventually, the time will come for the permanent teeth to erupt, leaving no room nor need for spacers.
Wednesday, June 07, 2006
The Sound of Music
As we were driving home from the ballpark this evening to the tunes of Whiteheart, I got to thinking about our stereos and tastes in music. My van has a tape deck and radio, both in working condition. Our previous family van also had a tape deck and radio, but the tape deck didn't work. Way back when we had an actual "car", we went to the expense of having a quality tape deck installed. For years now, I've wanted a CD player in my vehicle; actually, I'd prefer to have a tape deck and CD player, but if it comes down to either-or, I'll keep the tape deck.
We do have a CD player at home. Actually, our little stereo holds 3 CDs and has a dual tape deck. It isn't big, but it was affordable and does the job just fine. Our music collection certainly isn't immense. We enjoy a variety of music; we're just too cheap to make buying new music a priority. When the cost of a new CD is equal to a new pair of shoes for the kids or a two week supply of juice boxes for school lunches, there just isn't money to spare.
However, I do love music, which is not to say that I'm musically inclined. I did a two year stint playing the clarinet in grade 6 and 7, but I didn't enjoy it. I'm also not sure that I was really any good. It probably also isn't highly known that I did a lot of singing when I was younger (saying that makes me feel old!), but I did. My sisters and I regularly sang in front of our church congregation, although I remember my feelings of embarrassment over that. Besides taking part in elementary school choirs, I also did perform a couple of solos for music festival type events. I've sung at my uncle's wedding. I was in the Glee Club at my junior high school in grade 7; we performed as part of the musical, "You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown!". In grade 9, I was part of a school choir which sang more contemporary numbers like Wham's "Wake Me Up Before You Go". (I think I just dated myself.)
Was I, am I any good? I'd tell you no in a heartbeat. I'm sure I could sing better than many of the "hopefuls" that try out for American Idol, but I have the good sense to know that I'm not good enough. So, I sing with the congregation at church or in the privacy of my home or van. But back to music...
I think I've decided that I am okay with not having a CD player installed in my van. Even though I have a tape deck in the house, I never listen to my tapes at home. Just my CDs. In the van, I often simply listen to the radio, but I do put on a tape from time to time. Naturally, all the tapes that I own are "older" music, but I'm okay with that, too. Music isn't something that goes out of style to me. The fashions on the liner may have changed drastically, but the music and the words still have the ability to draw me in. Sometimes, I even prefer the "older" stuff, but I do like the "new" stuff, too.
In my CD player, I have Tchaikovsky, Itzhak Perlman, and Margaret Becker. Last week, I was listening to Grammy 2006 Nominees, Mandy Patinkin, and Seal. When I am working on a big household project, I like to listen to The Temptations, Neil Diamond, or the Beach Boys. In the van, I have tapes of Michael W. Smith, Whiteheart, Margaret Becker, Allies, and the soundtrack for the Prince of Egypt.
We do have a CD player at home. Actually, our little stereo holds 3 CDs and has a dual tape deck. It isn't big, but it was affordable and does the job just fine. Our music collection certainly isn't immense. We enjoy a variety of music; we're just too cheap to make buying new music a priority. When the cost of a new CD is equal to a new pair of shoes for the kids or a two week supply of juice boxes for school lunches, there just isn't money to spare.
However, I do love music, which is not to say that I'm musically inclined. I did a two year stint playing the clarinet in grade 6 and 7, but I didn't enjoy it. I'm also not sure that I was really any good. It probably also isn't highly known that I did a lot of singing when I was younger (saying that makes me feel old!), but I did. My sisters and I regularly sang in front of our church congregation, although I remember my feelings of embarrassment over that. Besides taking part in elementary school choirs, I also did perform a couple of solos for music festival type events. I've sung at my uncle's wedding. I was in the Glee Club at my junior high school in grade 7; we performed as part of the musical, "You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown!". In grade 9, I was part of a school choir which sang more contemporary numbers like Wham's "Wake Me Up Before You Go". (I think I just dated myself.)
Was I, am I any good? I'd tell you no in a heartbeat. I'm sure I could sing better than many of the "hopefuls" that try out for American Idol, but I have the good sense to know that I'm not good enough. So, I sing with the congregation at church or in the privacy of my home or van. But back to music...
I think I've decided that I am okay with not having a CD player installed in my van. Even though I have a tape deck in the house, I never listen to my tapes at home. Just my CDs. In the van, I often simply listen to the radio, but I do put on a tape from time to time. Naturally, all the tapes that I own are "older" music, but I'm okay with that, too. Music isn't something that goes out of style to me. The fashions on the liner may have changed drastically, but the music and the words still have the ability to draw me in. Sometimes, I even prefer the "older" stuff, but I do like the "new" stuff, too.
In my CD player, I have Tchaikovsky, Itzhak Perlman, and Margaret Becker. Last week, I was listening to Grammy 2006 Nominees, Mandy Patinkin, and Seal. When I am working on a big household project, I like to listen to The Temptations, Neil Diamond, or the Beach Boys. In the van, I have tapes of Michael W. Smith, Whiteheart, Margaret Becker, Allies, and the soundtrack for the Prince of Egypt.
Friday, June 02, 2006
Working for the Weekend
What a day! I worked from 8:30am until 2pm, and I think that the only time I was able to stop moving was during my 15 minute break. It was insanely busy, non-stop, but it was a good day. Busy is alright by me, so long as I'm working with good people and the customers are in a good mood, too.
Of course, now that I'm home, I really don't have much time to sit and relax either. I'm off to Vancouver for a whirlwind weekend of shopping and visiting with friends. We leave tomorrow morning and hope to return late Sunday afternoon or early evening. Sam has a baseball tournament this weekend with a game tonight. Casey has floor hockey after school for an hour, the kids have to deliver newspapers, and I need to make supper before we leave for baseball. Also, I need to have a bath, pack my overnight bag, paint my toe nails, do a last minute load of laundry, wash dishes, and make sure I've laid things out for Kane. Maybe after all that I will be able to sit and breathe and relax, or I could just go to bed then.
Of course, now that I'm home, I really don't have much time to sit and relax either. I'm off to Vancouver for a whirlwind weekend of shopping and visiting with friends. We leave tomorrow morning and hope to return late Sunday afternoon or early evening. Sam has a baseball tournament this weekend with a game tonight. Casey has floor hockey after school for an hour, the kids have to deliver newspapers, and I need to make supper before we leave for baseball. Also, I need to have a bath, pack my overnight bag, paint my toe nails, do a last minute load of laundry, wash dishes, and make sure I've laid things out for Kane. Maybe after all that I will be able to sit and breathe and relax, or I could just go to bed then.
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