So far, this is a good day! The Christmas tree is still standing. The sun is shining and snow is melting. I went for a 3 kilometre run this morning, after a week of not running. Sam had a second interview yesterday and got a job! I am going Christmas shopping with my girlfriend tonight.
The not so good stuff that I am trying to ignore or move past:
-my lower back is very sore
-my house is a mess
-I am so tired
Wednesday, December 08, 2010
Tuesday, December 07, 2010
O Christmas Tree!
Is there such a thing as a perfect Christmas tree stand? Last year, I bought a new tree stand, which I had thought was perfect. It really is the closest thing to perfect for a tree stand that I have seen, and yet, here we are having constant battles to keep the tree upright and straight. This stand is still a good stand, I think, and, in all fairness, I think the problem is that our tree might be too tall for the stand. So, the tree is jury-rigged to a hook on the ceiling with fishing line, and it is tilting a bit. My only hope is that it does not topple over completely.
I suppose this is something that we must suffer through so long as we choose to purchase a fresh tree for the holidays, but I cannot bring myself to switch to an artificial tree. I love the smell and feel of a fresh tree. Even the hassles of setting it up are perversely enjoyed in a very small way. It is tradition.
I suppose this is something that we must suffer through so long as we choose to purchase a fresh tree for the holidays, but I cannot bring myself to switch to an artificial tree. I love the smell and feel of a fresh tree. Even the hassles of setting it up are perversely enjoyed in a very small way. It is tradition.
Monday, December 06, 2010
Monday/Friday
It's Monday. It's my Friday. I am glad and sad and disappointed. I worked my usual sucky Monday shift, although the day was not as frustrating as usual. Even still, I was put in the usual position, which I normally don't mind; however, I have been in that position every shift for two weeks. I'm tired of being there every time I work, especially since that usually means I am left to do all that work myself.
I have a headache brewing. I feel rather icky, tired and cold. Hallelujah for three days off, even if they are going to be busy doing all sorts of stuff.
I have a headache brewing. I feel rather icky, tired and cold. Hallelujah for three days off, even if they are going to be busy doing all sorts of stuff.
Sunday, December 05, 2010
Sunday
It's been a long and busy day, although not nearly as productive as I might have liked. I have been busy all day long, and this is the first real opportunity to sit and do *my* stuff. I allowed myself the luxury of sleeping in until a little after 8:00 this morning, which meant that I had to eat breakfast, get dressed, and get everything measured and ready to take to my annual bake day after church. We left for church shortly after 9:00 and got back home just before 11:30. My friend was going to pick me up at 11:30, but she was, thankfully, a few minutes late. I did not get home from the bake day until 5:00. There was just enough time to drop off my stuff, then the family went out for dinner. Now we are home!
Kane and the kids picked up a Christmas tree this afternoon, and they did a good job. Abby is anxious to decorate now, but I still have lots of things on my to-do list for today...and not enough hours left before bed.
Kane and the kids picked up a Christmas tree this afternoon, and they did a good job. Abby is anxious to decorate now, but I still have lots of things on my to-do list for today...and not enough hours left before bed.
Saturday, December 04, 2010
Date Night
It's Saturday, and I am finished work for the day! Kane and I are going to go out for dinner and then to a hockey game. I have been to only one hockey game over the past year and a bit, so this will be a nice treat. The kids are jealous but oh well!
Friday, December 03, 2010
Making a List, Checking it Twice
Only 22 days until Christmas! Yikes! I guess I need to stop procrastinating and begin preparing for the holiday.
I did a teensy bit of shopping last night, and I ordered a couple of things on Tuesday, so I can at least say that I have started my Christmas shopping now. We generally do not go crazy on the gift giving, and this year won't be an exception, but it is still good to give to those we love. The most difficult part of Christmas shopping, aside from the craziness in the stores, is knowing what to get everyone! We already have so much, more than we need, and our likes are so varied. I could easily pick out a dozen or more different gifts for each person, so to narrow it down to one or two is a challenge, because I want to get the "best" gift, even if it isn't the most expensive.
We will need to go pick out a tree soon. I splurged a little last night and bought a set of 20 new tree ornaments. My ornament/Christmas decoration stash is old, pathetic, and sparse. There are a lot of broken ornaments that I really need to toss out, as they are beyond repair.
My annual Christmas bake day with my girlfriends is on Sunday. I am excited about my recipe this year, because it is the first time that I will not have to chill dough! We get together and do our cookie baking together, instead of just exchanging baked cookies. We still share the bounty, but this way we also can help each other and hang out at the same time. While I have liked my previous cookies, they always required hours of chilling, which meant that I had to prepare my dough the night before. So, I desperately wanted a fuss-free, chill-free cookie to make this year, and I found one! It's a little fussy still, because I should drizzle melted chocolate over the finished cookies, but I can live with that.
Next week I should also make my Earl Grey truffles. I usually bring some to work for my co-workers, and I have been fielding truffle queries for a couple of months already! They are fairly time-consuming but so yummy.
And then, I will need to start thinking about a turkey and all the trimmings for Christmas dinner. Actually, I dreamed the other night that I was looking for a turkey, and the store only had fresh turkeys that were not even wrapped in plastic. Gross! The turkeys were all small, except for one that was the size of a Volkswagen Beetle car! Yes, I do have weird dreams.
It is a good thing that I make lists and check them twice, because I will need all the help I can get to be ready for the holidays.
Thursday, December 02, 2010
Crunching
So, I did 100 crunches yesterday and another 100 today, as I hope to resume doing 100 crunches on a daily basis for as long as I can continue doing so. I enjoyed doing them over the month of June, until sickness derailed me mid-July. Although I have been running regularly, I do need to do more than just running to achieve my fitness goals.
Yesterday's crunches were difficult to complete. Any muscle memory that I had built up in June had long since disappeared. I woke this morning with stiff, sore muscles in my neck, my abdomen, and my upper back. It is amazing how much stiffness there is for having done some crunches! Today's crunches were even more difficult to finish, but I pushed on to the end.
I remember those first few days back in June and how difficult they were and how sore my body was. This will get better.
Yesterday's crunches were difficult to complete. Any muscle memory that I had built up in June had long since disappeared. I woke this morning with stiff, sore muscles in my neck, my abdomen, and my upper back. It is amazing how much stiffness there is for having done some crunches! Today's crunches were even more difficult to finish, but I pushed on to the end.
I remember those first few days back in June and how difficult they were and how sore my body was. This will get better.
Wednesday, December 01, 2010
December 1st
Here we are at the beginning of December. Already! Casey is now counting down the days until his birthday. The kids are starting to anticipate Christmas gifts beneath the tree. I'll admit to feeling a little more excited and eager for the holidays. Who doesn't get excited about Christmas?
Of course, I have lots of work to do until I will be fully ready for Christmas, and I am not even talking about my job's work schedule, which I expect will be hectic. I usually take at least one week off during the holidays, but I have not asked for any time off this year, except for New Year's Day, for my 5K run. Part of me is dreading what my schedule will look like, knowing that there are many co-workers asking for time off, but the extra money will be nice, and I keep telling myself that I just need to be organized!
Ha ha ha! Now I am normally a fairly organized person, but I have my limits. There is always too much to do and too little time to do it.
Of course, I have lots of work to do until I will be fully ready for Christmas, and I am not even talking about my job's work schedule, which I expect will be hectic. I usually take at least one week off during the holidays, but I have not asked for any time off this year, except for New Year's Day, for my 5K run. Part of me is dreading what my schedule will look like, knowing that there are many co-workers asking for time off, but the extra money will be nice, and I keep telling myself that I just need to be organized!
Ha ha ha! Now I am normally a fairly organized person, but I have my limits. There is always too much to do and too little time to do it.
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
30 Random Things About Me
1. I love doing jigsaw puzzles.
2. I hate raisins baked in anything.
3. I love making lists and checking them twice.
4. I love reading.
5. I can tolerate having cold feet in the spring and fall but not in winter.
6. I like running more than I ever thought possible.
7. Sometimes I miss the prairies.
8. I love Star Wars.
9. I like my job but not the drama.
10. I am proud of my kids.
11. I seldom give myself enough credit for anything.
12. However, I am immensely proud of my 5K race accomplishment back in October.
13. I am looking forward to my 5K race on New Year's Day.
14. I think I might try the 10K next October.
15. I think David Tennant was the best Dr. Who, but I've only seen three doctors.
16. A London Fog always hits the spot.
17. This year has been one of self-discovery for me.
18. I procrastinate a lot.
19. I am comfortable with silence.
20. I am behind on my scrapbooking.
21. I really, really like our new pastor.
22. I have been to three different professional sports games in my life: Canadian Football, Major League Baseball, and National Hockey League.
23. Those are my three favourite sports.
24. I am probably smarter than I think I am but not as smart as I wish I was.
25. I enjoy my days off most, when I don't have a million things to do.
26. I am going to do an experimental test on a cookie recipe today.
27. I hate slush on the streets and sidewalks.
28. I love Christmas music, except for It's A Marshmallow World in the Winter.
29. I can't wait to get our Christmas tree.
30. I have successfully blogged every day in November!
2. I hate raisins baked in anything.
3. I love making lists and checking them twice.
4. I love reading.
5. I can tolerate having cold feet in the spring and fall but not in winter.
6. I like running more than I ever thought possible.
7. Sometimes I miss the prairies.
8. I love Star Wars.
9. I like my job but not the drama.
10. I am proud of my kids.
11. I seldom give myself enough credit for anything.
12. However, I am immensely proud of my 5K race accomplishment back in October.
13. I am looking forward to my 5K race on New Year's Day.
14. I think I might try the 10K next October.
15. I think David Tennant was the best Dr. Who, but I've only seen three doctors.
16. A London Fog always hits the spot.
17. This year has been one of self-discovery for me.
18. I procrastinate a lot.
19. I am comfortable with silence.
20. I am behind on my scrapbooking.
21. I really, really like our new pastor.
22. I have been to three different professional sports games in my life: Canadian Football, Major League Baseball, and National Hockey League.
23. Those are my three favourite sports.
24. I am probably smarter than I think I am but not as smart as I wish I was.
25. I enjoy my days off most, when I don't have a million things to do.
26. I am going to do an experimental test on a cookie recipe today.
27. I hate slush on the streets and sidewalks.
28. I love Christmas music, except for It's A Marshmallow World in the Winter.
29. I can't wait to get our Christmas tree.
30. I have successfully blogged every day in November!
Monday, November 29, 2010
Keep It Going?
Tomorrow is the last day of November! Can you believe it?! Why does time have to pass so quickly? I may be in the beginning stages of feeling that Christmas spirit, but I am still far from ready for it to be December already.
Barring major and last minute complications tomorrow, I will once again successfully finish the NaBloPoMo challenge for November! For the second year in a row! See, I can accomplish things when I set my mind to do them! It just isn't always easy to have that type of mindset about everything. Perhaps there could be a way to challenge or motivate myself to achieve those mundane tasks with the same determination that I can apply to NaBloPoMo in November, although I am not sure what those ways might be. Rewards might work or might not. There is no reward for completing this blog challenge, and yet I found a way to continue on.
And you know, NaBloPoMo has challenges every month, although November is the biggest, most important one of them all. My daily posting discipline seems to slack off once December rolls around. I can get into a habit or routine of doing something on a daily basis, but my progress can be derailed so easily. In June, I took part in a challenge to do 100 crunches a day for the entire month. I did it! I wanted to continue doing it, and I did...until I was sick for three days in the middle of July. I haven't done a single crunch since then, but I would like to get back into the habit of doing them every day. Obviously though, my desire hasn't outweighed my procrastination.
So maybe I do need to set little challenges for myself, even if there is no shiny medal waiting for me at the end.
Barring major and last minute complications tomorrow, I will once again successfully finish the NaBloPoMo challenge for November! For the second year in a row! See, I can accomplish things when I set my mind to do them! It just isn't always easy to have that type of mindset about everything. Perhaps there could be a way to challenge or motivate myself to achieve those mundane tasks with the same determination that I can apply to NaBloPoMo in November, although I am not sure what those ways might be. Rewards might work or might not. There is no reward for completing this blog challenge, and yet I found a way to continue on.
And you know, NaBloPoMo has challenges every month, although November is the biggest, most important one of them all. My daily posting discipline seems to slack off once December rolls around. I can get into a habit or routine of doing something on a daily basis, but my progress can be derailed so easily. In June, I took part in a challenge to do 100 crunches a day for the entire month. I did it! I wanted to continue doing it, and I did...until I was sick for three days in the middle of July. I haven't done a single crunch since then, but I would like to get back into the habit of doing them every day. Obviously though, my desire hasn't outweighed my procrastination.
So maybe I do need to set little challenges for myself, even if there is no shiny medal waiting for me at the end.
Sunday, November 28, 2010
One Day Grindstone
It's back to the grind tomorrow, but at least it will be my Friday. I wonder how the work day will go. The past few Monday shifts have been frustrating and chaotic. Actually most of my work days of late have been frustrating and chaotic! Mondays are just extra special, because I have a sucky shift, 11:00 am to 3:00 pm. No break. A completely wasted day. Then add on all the workplace drama and conflicts...those four hours feel like sixteen!
I have been trying to maintain a positive attitude at work, despite the chaos, the frustration, the drama, the issues. It's not easy though. I might start off the day humming under my breath and thinking positively, but all that negativity is like a running stream wearing away the soft soil of the banks. Incompetency drives me nuts, and I am surrounded by it. In fairness, my co-workers are not useless or incapable employees. Some of them just are not as adept at handling the mental and physical rigors of the job, and some don't understand the concept of teamwork and cooperation. Some can't distinguish between workplace appropriate behaviour and private or bedroom behaviour. Unfortunately, some of them fall into all of those categories.
Ah well! Like always, I will survive the day, whatever may come.
I have been trying to maintain a positive attitude at work, despite the chaos, the frustration, the drama, the issues. It's not easy though. I might start off the day humming under my breath and thinking positively, but all that negativity is like a running stream wearing away the soft soil of the banks. Incompetency drives me nuts, and I am surrounded by it. In fairness, my co-workers are not useless or incapable employees. Some of them just are not as adept at handling the mental and physical rigors of the job, and some don't understand the concept of teamwork and cooperation. Some can't distinguish between workplace appropriate behaviour and private or bedroom behaviour. Unfortunately, some of them fall into all of those categories.
Ah well! Like always, I will survive the day, whatever may come.
Saturday, November 27, 2010
Insanity
What a long day! Just another crazy Saturday at work, and I am so glad that it is now over. As if Saturdays weren't busy enough, our donut oven broke down early this morning. I worked 8 hours on the busiest, craziest station, and I worked liked a dog. My attitude started to slip after about 6 hours, although it wasn't too negative. I just get a little frustrated with chaos, especially when others make decisions without thinking beyond the immediate moment, but I survived. On a positive note, I was thoroughly complimented by my manager, which was greatly appreciated, even though I tend to down play my own efforts when others praise me. I did work hard, and I did do most of the work, so it was good to have that acknowledged!
Now though, I am just glad to be home and "done" for the day and thankful that tomorrow is a day off.
Now though, I am just glad to be home and "done" for the day and thankful that tomorrow is a day off.
Friday, November 26, 2010
Winter Run #2
I'm not sure why I was so afraid of running outside in the winter! I went for my second "winter" run today after work, and it was fantastic. Mind you, the temperature outside right now is 0 degrees Celsius, which is significantly nicer than the -14 Celsius that I ran in on Wednesday. Still, I quite enjoyed both runs.
I ran just over 3 kilometres today, but it felt like more and it certainly took longer than usual. The sidewalks had been plowed and were the easiest surface to run on. The one side road that I had to run on had also been plowed; however, there was still compacted but loose snow, which made for a slippery surface. I also ran a section of trail, which had a good layer of compacted snow, but the surface was uneven, which made running feel like a difficult task, kind of like running on sand.
I had to take off my gloves and toque shortly after the midway point, because I felt like I was over-heating. Even my feet felt too warm!
So far, running in winter has been a pleasant surprise. I've run in really cold weather and now mild winter weather. How much worse could it possibly get?
I ran just over 3 kilometres today, but it felt like more and it certainly took longer than usual. The sidewalks had been plowed and were the easiest surface to run on. The one side road that I had to run on had also been plowed; however, there was still compacted but loose snow, which made for a slippery surface. I also ran a section of trail, which had a good layer of compacted snow, but the surface was uneven, which made running feel like a difficult task, kind of like running on sand.
I had to take off my gloves and toque shortly after the midway point, because I felt like I was over-heating. Even my feet felt too warm!
So far, running in winter has been a pleasant surprise. I've run in really cold weather and now mild winter weather. How much worse could it possibly get?
Thursday, November 25, 2010
Weekly Lowdown
Today is my Sunday, or at least it is my final day off before two days of work. I know! My work schedule is over-taxing, but I deal with it the best I can.
Actually, the next two days of work should be okay. Friday is my day to run the show, at least in theory. I get to count the tills and deposit and do paperwork, which is really only a minor part of the day but better than nothing. My shift is short enough to pass fairly quickly, yet just long enough to let me have a coffee break. Saturday is something else entirely, and that is what makes working Saturdays so much more enjoyable. There is no drama and petty problems on Saturdays. We work hard and are typically swamped, but that makes the longer shift go very quickly.
The actual Sunday is also a day off for me, and this particular Sunday is Grey Cup Sunday! I love Canadian football, and the Grey Cup is our Super Bowl, only better! I must figure out what I will bring to the Grey Cup party being hosted by some friends. Maybe some meatballs? Two of my other ideas were shut down, when my friend said she is making those things. No problem. But what to bring? Meatballs are easy, warm, and tasty.
After Sunday comes Monday, which also happens to be my Friday! It's a weird life I live, I know, but I am not truly mentally confused. Unfortunately, Monday always feels like a Monday, even though it is my last day of work for three days. There should be a law against that, I think. I don't like my Monday shift, which is 11:00 am to 3:00 pm. No break. A wasted morning. No real time for anything else in the afternoon. I suppose I could overlook those issues easy enough, if the work environment wasn't so miserable on Mondays. The past few Mondays have seemed chaotic and toxic. Sigh.
Oh well, I go to work and do my work and seldom dwell on work when I am at home, which is the way it should be. I will make the most of this final day off for the week, or at least I will be sure to enjoy it. My productive days were Tuesday and Wednesday. Today feels like a more sluggish day, especially with this blasted headache again. I do plan on some card-making and some cookie baking. Sounds good enough for me!
Actually, the next two days of work should be okay. Friday is my day to run the show, at least in theory. I get to count the tills and deposit and do paperwork, which is really only a minor part of the day but better than nothing. My shift is short enough to pass fairly quickly, yet just long enough to let me have a coffee break. Saturday is something else entirely, and that is what makes working Saturdays so much more enjoyable. There is no drama and petty problems on Saturdays. We work hard and are typically swamped, but that makes the longer shift go very quickly.
The actual Sunday is also a day off for me, and this particular Sunday is Grey Cup Sunday! I love Canadian football, and the Grey Cup is our Super Bowl, only better! I must figure out what I will bring to the Grey Cup party being hosted by some friends. Maybe some meatballs? Two of my other ideas were shut down, when my friend said she is making those things. No problem. But what to bring? Meatballs are easy, warm, and tasty.
After Sunday comes Monday, which also happens to be my Friday! It's a weird life I live, I know, but I am not truly mentally confused. Unfortunately, Monday always feels like a Monday, even though it is my last day of work for three days. There should be a law against that, I think. I don't like my Monday shift, which is 11:00 am to 3:00 pm. No break. A wasted morning. No real time for anything else in the afternoon. I suppose I could overlook those issues easy enough, if the work environment wasn't so miserable on Mondays. The past few Mondays have seemed chaotic and toxic. Sigh.
Oh well, I go to work and do my work and seldom dwell on work when I am at home, which is the way it should be. I will make the most of this final day off for the week, or at least I will be sure to enjoy it. My productive days were Tuesday and Wednesday. Today feels like a more sluggish day, especially with this blasted headache again. I do plan on some card-making and some cookie baking. Sounds good enough for me!
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
First Snow, Deep Cold Run
It was -14 Celsius this morning, but I did manage to get myself out for a run. I layered up, put on a toque and gloves, and wool blend socks. My body felt the cold, but I wasn't nearly as cold as I anticipated. The act of running kept me feeling quite comfortable. The only real complaint was my face against the wind.
I changed my typical running route this morning, with the expectation that this run would be short and, hopefully, sweet. My normal route usually has me against the wind near the beginning of the run, and this alteration was no different. But I didn't think it out too well. Once I turned around to come home, the wind was against my back, and my face no longer felt like a candidate for frost-bite. I could have run much further with the wind against my back, except that I had planned this route to be very short for fear of the cold. Next time I will know that I just need to survive against the wind and plan my direction accordingly.
Aside from those cold cheeks at the beginning, I really, truly enjoyed my run this morning, cold and snow and all! I liked hearing the crunch of my shoes on the compacted snow. My pace was slow, because I was treading lightly so as not to slip and fall, but it was a comfortable pace. It was easy, and my hips didn't protest. I don't really know how else to describe it, but it was an almost amazing experience, once I could lift my face without worrying about the wind, that is.
Does that mean I am good and truly hooked on running?
I changed my typical running route this morning, with the expectation that this run would be short and, hopefully, sweet. My normal route usually has me against the wind near the beginning of the run, and this alteration was no different. But I didn't think it out too well. Once I turned around to come home, the wind was against my back, and my face no longer felt like a candidate for frost-bite. I could have run much further with the wind against my back, except that I had planned this route to be very short for fear of the cold. Next time I will know that I just need to survive against the wind and plan my direction accordingly.
Aside from those cold cheeks at the beginning, I really, truly enjoyed my run this morning, cold and snow and all! I liked hearing the crunch of my shoes on the compacted snow. My pace was slow, because I was treading lightly so as not to slip and fall, but it was a comfortable pace. It was easy, and my hips didn't protest. I don't really know how else to describe it, but it was an almost amazing experience, once I could lift my face without worrying about the wind, that is.
Does that mean I am good and truly hooked on running?
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Keeping Busy
It looks like a beautiful day. The sun is shining. The sky is blue. Even the snow on the ground looks shiny and nice. However, it is -13 Celsius right now, before any added chill from the wind, which could get up to 40 km/h. Yuck!
So, I am snug as a bug in the house, keeping busy with general tidying, laundry, baking cheddar cornmeal scones, and enjoying a cup of Earl Grey tea. The last load of laundry is in the dryer. The scones are cooling on the rack and taste mighty fine. The house isn't clean, by Better Homes & Gardens standards, but it is a bit tidier than it was earlier this morning. I've done my daily Bible reading, and now I am doing my daily blog entry. It's been a productive morning!
So, I am snug as a bug in the house, keeping busy with general tidying, laundry, baking cheddar cornmeal scones, and enjoying a cup of Earl Grey tea. The last load of laundry is in the dryer. The scones are cooling on the rack and taste mighty fine. The house isn't clean, by Better Homes & Gardens standards, but it is a bit tidier than it was earlier this morning. I've done my daily Bible reading, and now I am doing my daily blog entry. It's been a productive morning!
Monday, November 22, 2010
Mundane
I don't really have much to say today.
Work was busy but fine. I left a half hour early, because of increasingly pain in my left side. It has mostly abated now, although there are still a few tinges of pain.
The desktop has a virus and is out of commission for the time being, which means that my laptop is doing double-duty today. Of course, so much homework needs to be done on a computer these days. I wonder if the printer can be hooked up to my laptop, so Sam can print off his essay.
Snow tires have been put on my van finally! I am happy. Tomorrow, the truck will get some snow tires put on, too.
Work was busy but fine. I left a half hour early, because of increasingly pain in my left side. It has mostly abated now, although there are still a few tinges of pain.
The desktop has a virus and is out of commission for the time being, which means that my laptop is doing double-duty today. Of course, so much homework needs to be done on a computer these days. I wonder if the printer can be hooked up to my laptop, so Sam can print off his essay.
Snow tires have been put on my van finally! I am happy. Tomorrow, the truck will get some snow tires put on, too.
Sunday, November 21, 2010
Sunday
We didn't go to church today. Abby had a friend sleep-over, so it just seemed easier to stay home. As much as I would have enjoyed going to church this morning, I was glad for the extra hour of sleep. We enjoyed a nice breakfast, at a leisurely pace, and we went to see the new Harry Potter movie. It's been a nice day.
There was an email in my inbox this morning from a friend, the one who I am a little frustrated with recently. I sent an email to her a few days ago expressing my feelings and perspective. I don't think I was harsh or overly critical, but her email has a defensive tone to it. To be honest, I'm not quite sure what to think of her email or how to take it. In some ways, her comments strike me as odd, because they seem to be taking a stance or a tone against things I did not say. After a couple of readings, I think she is telling me that she is the way she is and I need to deal with that. She doesn't feel she needs to apologize for who she is, but I don't recall asking her to do that. I'm pretty sure that I did say that there is nothing wrong with who she is...or who I am. I thought I made it quite clear that I wasn't picking her apart but sharing my feelings, my perspective, with the acknowledgement that we are two different people. I didn't tell her how to live her life. I didn't tell her that she needs to change. I did ask for some understanding and a little cooperation. After all, if she wants to spend time with me when she comes to town, then she needs to work with me to make that happen, rather than putting all the expectation on my shoulders while handicapping me with short notice and her limited schedule. That shouldn't be too much to ask.
So, I don't quite know what to think or how to respond. I do still consider her a friend. That won't change because of this difference of opinion; however, I am not thrilled by the thought I am sensing, that being that I am the one who needs to change. I am so beyond being the martyr just so others don't need to bend. Been there, done that, and I've discovered how unhealthy that kind of self-sacrifice is to my sanity and health. I don't have a problem bending and letting go of my expectations when the situation calls for me to do so, but that doesn't mean that I need to be a doormat to be walked all over. And quite frankly, the problems with my in-laws is that they expect me to change who I am to suit their purposes, with no effort at all on their part to be flexible. I don't want to compare this situation with my friend to the situation with my in-laws, but I get the sense that my friend is telling me that "this" is how she is and she's not going to apologize for being who she is. I never asked her to apologize for that, but I could easily take her statement to mean that she will not bend, from which I could then assume that I must bend.
Argh!
There was an email in my inbox this morning from a friend, the one who I am a little frustrated with recently. I sent an email to her a few days ago expressing my feelings and perspective. I don't think I was harsh or overly critical, but her email has a defensive tone to it. To be honest, I'm not quite sure what to think of her email or how to take it. In some ways, her comments strike me as odd, because they seem to be taking a stance or a tone against things I did not say. After a couple of readings, I think she is telling me that she is the way she is and I need to deal with that. She doesn't feel she needs to apologize for who she is, but I don't recall asking her to do that. I'm pretty sure that I did say that there is nothing wrong with who she is...or who I am. I thought I made it quite clear that I wasn't picking her apart but sharing my feelings, my perspective, with the acknowledgement that we are two different people. I didn't tell her how to live her life. I didn't tell her that she needs to change. I did ask for some understanding and a little cooperation. After all, if she wants to spend time with me when she comes to town, then she needs to work with me to make that happen, rather than putting all the expectation on my shoulders while handicapping me with short notice and her limited schedule. That shouldn't be too much to ask.
So, I don't quite know what to think or how to respond. I do still consider her a friend. That won't change because of this difference of opinion; however, I am not thrilled by the thought I am sensing, that being that I am the one who needs to change. I am so beyond being the martyr just so others don't need to bend. Been there, done that, and I've discovered how unhealthy that kind of self-sacrifice is to my sanity and health. I don't have a problem bending and letting go of my expectations when the situation calls for me to do so, but that doesn't mean that I need to be a doormat to be walked all over. And quite frankly, the problems with my in-laws is that they expect me to change who I am to suit their purposes, with no effort at all on their part to be flexible. I don't want to compare this situation with my friend to the situation with my in-laws, but I get the sense that my friend is telling me that "this" is how she is and she's not going to apologize for being who she is. I never asked her to apologize for that, but I could easily take her statement to mean that she will not bend, from which I could then assume that I must bend.
Argh!
Saturday, November 20, 2010
Viruses
It looks like there is a virus on the desktop computer. Thankfully, I have a laptop! I suppose this means that I will be asked to share for the time being.
It was a long day at work but a good day, more or less. It is still cold outside and snowy. Today I am back to not liking winter. Oh well...
I have my blanket, and I have a kettle and Earl Grey tea waiting to be made.
The sore throat is finally progressing into a cough. Of course, the cough had to start last night, right about the time that I went to bed. It was present during the day, but it wasn't really an issue. That will probably change though as night draws near.
It was a long day at work but a good day, more or less. It is still cold outside and snowy. Today I am back to not liking winter. Oh well...
I have my blanket, and I have a kettle and Earl Grey tea waiting to be made.
The sore throat is finally progressing into a cough. Of course, the cough had to start last night, right about the time that I went to bed. It was present during the day, but it wasn't really an issue. That will probably change though as night draws near.
Friday, November 19, 2010
First Snow
It started snowing last night, and we woke up to a thin blanket of snow and more falling from the sky. I was not impressed, especially knowing that my winter tires are still not on the van yet. I don't feel ready for snow or winter yet. Not really.
I had to verbally push Sam to wear pants today, and I still don't know whether he did or not, because I had to leave for work before he left for school. He hates wearing pants and will wear shorts as long as he can stand the cold. He was going to put pants on, but he only has one pair of jeans and he didn't think that they would fit.
I had to put my memory through its' paces this morning to remember where Abby's running shoes were, because she's been wearing flats to school, without socks, and that just wouldn't cut it today. Eventually I remembered that her runners were in the van. Although I was a little frustrated that I still had to push her to wear a coat!
Casey stayed home sick today. Otherwise, I would likely hear all about the possible hole in his runners and his need for a new pair.
The calendar may still say that it is Autumn, but I don't buy that at all. In my opinion, winter begins on November 1st, each and every year, whether I like it or not. Ready or not. The first half of November was simply lovely weather, and I really would have liked to see more of it. All indicators point toward a colder, much snowier winter for our area, and I don't know whether to laugh or cry. When I signed up for a 5K run for New Year's Day, I was hoping for a mild and dry winter. I don't mind running in rain. I could probably even be okay with temperatures around the freezing point, maybe even a teensy bit of snow. But what will I do if the temperatures are really cold, like -10 or lower? What if we have a couple feet of snow and icy, uncleared sidewalks? I'm not so sure that I can force myself out for a run in conditions like that!
Winter is always a paradoxical event for me. I hate it. I hate the cold and the bitter, biting wind. I hate driving on messy roads, covered in ice and snow and ruts. I hate walking (and probably running, too) on sidewalks hidden beneath uneven layers of ice and snow. Most of all, I hate the slush, when all the snow and ice starts melting. And yet, if I am completely honest, there are many things about winter that I enjoy, if not actually love!
I love the beauty of freshly fallen, pristine snow on the ground and the trees. I love playing in the snow with the kids, making snowmen, snowballs, and snow angels. I love watching big, fat, lazy snowflakes fluttering to the ground. I love Christmas and my birthday. I love curling up with a blanket, a book, and a mug of tea or hot chocolate. Even though we don't have a fire place, I love the smell of a wood fire place and the warmth and crackles and pops.
I may have left for work dismayed by the snow, but by the time I was midway through my shift, I was actually able to feel some joy in the snow. Don't get me wrong! I would have preferred for the snow to hold off at least another week or two, but I might be more ready for winter than I had thought, at least emotionally.
I had to verbally push Sam to wear pants today, and I still don't know whether he did or not, because I had to leave for work before he left for school. He hates wearing pants and will wear shorts as long as he can stand the cold. He was going to put pants on, but he only has one pair of jeans and he didn't think that they would fit.
I had to put my memory through its' paces this morning to remember where Abby's running shoes were, because she's been wearing flats to school, without socks, and that just wouldn't cut it today. Eventually I remembered that her runners were in the van. Although I was a little frustrated that I still had to push her to wear a coat!
Casey stayed home sick today. Otherwise, I would likely hear all about the possible hole in his runners and his need for a new pair.
The calendar may still say that it is Autumn, but I don't buy that at all. In my opinion, winter begins on November 1st, each and every year, whether I like it or not. Ready or not. The first half of November was simply lovely weather, and I really would have liked to see more of it. All indicators point toward a colder, much snowier winter for our area, and I don't know whether to laugh or cry. When I signed up for a 5K run for New Year's Day, I was hoping for a mild and dry winter. I don't mind running in rain. I could probably even be okay with temperatures around the freezing point, maybe even a teensy bit of snow. But what will I do if the temperatures are really cold, like -10 or lower? What if we have a couple feet of snow and icy, uncleared sidewalks? I'm not so sure that I can force myself out for a run in conditions like that!
Winter is always a paradoxical event for me. I hate it. I hate the cold and the bitter, biting wind. I hate driving on messy roads, covered in ice and snow and ruts. I hate walking (and probably running, too) on sidewalks hidden beneath uneven layers of ice and snow. Most of all, I hate the slush, when all the snow and ice starts melting. And yet, if I am completely honest, there are many things about winter that I enjoy, if not actually love!
I love the beauty of freshly fallen, pristine snow on the ground and the trees. I love playing in the snow with the kids, making snowmen, snowballs, and snow angels. I love watching big, fat, lazy snowflakes fluttering to the ground. I love Christmas and my birthday. I love curling up with a blanket, a book, and a mug of tea or hot chocolate. Even though we don't have a fire place, I love the smell of a wood fire place and the warmth and crackles and pops.
I may have left for work dismayed by the snow, but by the time I was midway through my shift, I was actually able to feel some joy in the snow. Don't get me wrong! I would have preferred for the snow to hold off at least another week or two, but I might be more ready for winter than I had thought, at least emotionally.
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