Days with Kasey
Hi friends.
Sorry - it's been awhile since I've been here (or anywhere in the blogging world) but the days are pretty busy right now. This weekend, we are taking some time off to take Scott and Veronica, Luke and Kasey to the circus. Send in the clowns. (I don't like clowns).
Things are winding down here - I have exactly 5 more working days and then I will be an old(?) retired lady. This will be bittersweet for me - the other morning I went into my boss' office, shared a few tears, and said that this will likely be very hard for me to do. I think it's because I have enjoyed my job thoroughly - and have made some wonderful friends along the way.
And so, in just a Monday thru Friday work week, the days of phone calls and emails and processing and procedure writing will end and become - instead - days with Kasey. Selfishly, I feel they are passing too swiftly, and yet this mother's heart knows that the goal is for Laurie to get through school, Stephen to return from the sand, and all of them to be together. Mya, their dog (who gets to live with Laurie), will be glad when she doesn't have to spend her days cooped up in the bathroom. :)
I plan to write a story about all of this - about the coming days with Kasey...and all the ones that have passed since he came to live with us. Pictures and memories, reflections on being his grandma - and his guardian. The story will be written when Ron and Kasey and I are finally in our RV home somewhere across the country. I am thinking of nights spent in a cozy little living room, which is 3 steps away from the kitchen (excuse me, the galley- sorry Ron). There will be "weather" no doubt, but I'm just gonna hunker down and be retired-put a sweatshirt on if need be. That could be the toughest decision of the day - should it be my sweatshirt, or one of Ron's flannel shirts? Anyway, there will be pictures and some of Kasey's artwork, and a few odds and ends from Hobby Lobby :) and give it to Laurie and Stephen for Christmas. By then, Laurie will have completed her first phase of the program she is in and will hopefully be stationed back at home with Stephen. And then HER days will be with Kasey.
I also have something planned about Veronica - about the weekends she spent with us while Scott was living here during the first year of his separation from Tina.
It will be called, "Weekends with Papa" and I will give this to Scott when it is finished.
I hope that each of these books - Kasey's and Veronica's - will be something that will help them to remember the days we have spent together.
So the other day, as I cleaned out my personal things from my desk at work the other day (cleaning a little at a time each day), I found many things that could go into a personal scrapbook. One that I will enjoy putting together when leaving isn't quite so fresh in my mind, and the days of retirement are being enjoyed in an RV park somewhere in this great country of ours.
Stephen called the other night - they've been busy. :( Not what a mom wants to hear. But we are nearly 7 months into it all and on the down side. This is a blessing.
Thanks to all of you who have stopped in while I've been awol. While I was gone, I celebrated a birthday. My 62nd - lots of years behind me, more than there are ahead of me but God has a journey planned and I will follow it's path as far as it reaches.
Hard to believe that we'll be on the road in just about 5 or 6 weeks. But so will my computer.
God bless our troops and all of us who love them.
Friday, March 20, 2009
Friday, March 06, 2009
Celebrating Kasey!
In an Army hospital, four years ago today and in the wee hours of the morning, Kasey was born. He was little and kind of frail; had some breathing problems and the kids were scared. And when they took him to the intensive care nursery, so was I. Stephen stood next to the isolette saying, "come on buddy," and all I could do was stand next to Stephen and pray. Once Laurie was in recovery, Stephen told me to go back to their house and get some sleep. I fought the urge to stay because I thought they needed some time alone. And so I left...but on the way out of the hospital, I stopped in the chapel. It was nearly dawn, no one else was there. Except for God and His Son who sat with me, listened to my prayers and calmed my fears.
When I got back to Stephen and Laurie's, I looked around at the home that was ready to receive a little boy and the tears finally flowed, and I fell asleep on the couch for all of two hours. When I awoke, I called the hospital. Kasey was out of ICU, swaddled in a receiving blanket and sleeping like an angel in his isolette in Laurie's room.
Four years later, those moments come back to me as some of the most precious in my life. Seeing him being born, understanding that he was completely in God's hands, and trusting in that perfect care that God provides.
And so this morning, the first thing Laurie did when she got up was to open the package I sent to her earlier this week - the pictures I had taken last week to mark Kasey's fourth year birthday. And she loved them. She took them all to school to show her friends, and they loved him. Who wouldn't? :)
Tonight we had Kasey's favorite for dinner - chicken noodle casserole and bisquits. I made him a yellow cake with chocolate frosting - and four candles.
Kasey stayed home from school until his daddy called late this morning, and then - armed with the mini cupcakes grandma made and skippy cups that went with them, he and grandpa headed to school. When I got home from work tonight he was sitting and waiting for me - wondering if he could open his "big" presents. And so he did and the squeals when he opened them all were so happy.
Tomorrow a party with Scott and Veronica and Luke. But tonight, well, tonight I am just basking in the peace that comes with having a four year old birthday boy running around the house with his dinosaur transformer. I know that Laurie and Stephen miss him - and that he misses them, but oh Lord, I am so grateful that I am still young enough to enjoy the wonders of a little boy's birthday.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY KASEY! WE LOVE YOU.
God bless our troops and those who love them. Especially a little 4 year old boy, far from his mom and dad but trusting there will be a time when they will all be reunited when the deployment is over.
Tuesday, March 03, 2009
What makes a house a Home?
Here we are - finally doing the packing thing. Deciding what we can keep that will be appropriate to carry with us in our RV full time, what we can give away without much pain, and are we going to be able to actually get rid of things with out being sorry about it later. You know - if you've ever had to move, or downsize, or REALLY condense your stuff - it's not easy. I probably still have every card I ever received; have every little trinket and souvenir the kids have brought home from garage sales or school field trips, or dollar stores. Just for me, given with proud smiles.
And mugs? Where the heck am I going to put 30 mugs in my trailer? And I won't part with any of them because I've actually been able to get rid of 4 or 5 - all others stay. Well at least for another week until I downsize them again next week. :)
So tonight, Ron mentioned that he is going to steam all the wall paper off the walls in the entrance hallway so the new owner of the house won't have to do it. At first it upset me because, you see, it's patriotically themed. Laurie helped me pick out the wallpaper and the border when she was home on leave during a major remodeling project. On these walls hung my little pictures of angels holding flags, of a little girl dressed in red, white and blue, and where I hung the poem I wrote for Laurie a long time ago. The Heart of A Soldier - my only published written work. There is another wall - in an RV - waiting for them.
So I realized, as I took all of these wall hangings down, that no matter what the walls look like without the paper, no amount of steaming will remove the feelings represented on that wall for so many years. The pride, the love, the thanksgiving - all the joy, and fear, and faith that go into being an American military mom can't be steamed off my heart, or my memory.
So what makes a house a home? Not walls, or interior decorating, not anything material.
It's the memories, the love, and family happenings shared within these walls. And they will go with us no matter where we go.
God is good.
Blessings my friends.
And may He bless our troops wherever they serve, and those who wait.
Here we are - finally doing the packing thing. Deciding what we can keep that will be appropriate to carry with us in our RV full time, what we can give away without much pain, and are we going to be able to actually get rid of things with out being sorry about it later. You know - if you've ever had to move, or downsize, or REALLY condense your stuff - it's not easy. I probably still have every card I ever received; have every little trinket and souvenir the kids have brought home from garage sales or school field trips, or dollar stores. Just for me, given with proud smiles.
And mugs? Where the heck am I going to put 30 mugs in my trailer? And I won't part with any of them because I've actually been able to get rid of 4 or 5 - all others stay. Well at least for another week until I downsize them again next week. :)
So tonight, Ron mentioned that he is going to steam all the wall paper off the walls in the entrance hallway so the new owner of the house won't have to do it. At first it upset me because, you see, it's patriotically themed. Laurie helped me pick out the wallpaper and the border when she was home on leave during a major remodeling project. On these walls hung my little pictures of angels holding flags, of a little girl dressed in red, white and blue, and where I hung the poem I wrote for Laurie a long time ago. The Heart of A Soldier - my only published written work. There is another wall - in an RV - waiting for them.
So I realized, as I took all of these wall hangings down, that no matter what the walls look like without the paper, no amount of steaming will remove the feelings represented on that wall for so many years. The pride, the love, the thanksgiving - all the joy, and fear, and faith that go into being an American military mom can't be steamed off my heart, or my memory.
So what makes a house a home? Not walls, or interior decorating, not anything material.
It's the memories, the love, and family happenings shared within these walls. And they will go with us no matter where we go.
God is good.
Blessings my friends.
And may He bless our troops wherever they serve, and those who wait.
Thursday, February 26, 2009
It's time.
Yesterday morning I went into work with a really great feeling. I had made one of the most important decisions of my life and it felt good - my shoulders feel a lot less burdened by wondering when exactly I would make this choice. And so, when my supervisor came in and started to unlock her office door, she looked at me and knew that I had something to tell her - and something to give her. It was my notice of retirement - the paperwork was submitted and it was time to take the step. I cried like a baby when I gave it to her. I am hopeless.
You know, it felt more like a giant leap than a step, but I took it anyway. And so, in just a few weeks, my time at the university will be done, my desk will finally be empty, and I can walk away knowing that I've enjoyed every moment, have loved each day that I was blessed to work there, and most of all, that I could leave knowing that I was leaving friends rather than co-workers. It will be a bittersweet time - a time of preparation, of dotting I's and crossing Ts. (Of filling the confidential recycle bin with all those things that I will never need to remember again about Federal financial aid). By the time Kasey and Veronica are old enough for college I can MAYBE still remember how to fill out a FAFSA application but I wouldn't bet on it.
And this will be a time of letting go. It won't be easy. Dear Lord, please help me to realize that it's not a bad thing to retire - it's just a different road to travel. And it doesn't matter that my sick leave credit is based on my life expectancy - although it's quite humorous to see how much time they are giving me at the outset. :) Yup, humorous is the right word I guess.
But hey - this is no time to think about life expectancy. I think God still has a lot in store for Ron and I.
It's time we found out - don't ya think?
Blessings and love and as always, may God bless our troops and those of us who wait.
Yesterday morning I went into work with a really great feeling. I had made one of the most important decisions of my life and it felt good - my shoulders feel a lot less burdened by wondering when exactly I would make this choice. And so, when my supervisor came in and started to unlock her office door, she looked at me and knew that I had something to tell her - and something to give her. It was my notice of retirement - the paperwork was submitted and it was time to take the step. I cried like a baby when I gave it to her. I am hopeless.
You know, it felt more like a giant leap than a step, but I took it anyway. And so, in just a few weeks, my time at the university will be done, my desk will finally be empty, and I can walk away knowing that I've enjoyed every moment, have loved each day that I was blessed to work there, and most of all, that I could leave knowing that I was leaving friends rather than co-workers. It will be a bittersweet time - a time of preparation, of dotting I's and crossing Ts. (Of filling the confidential recycle bin with all those things that I will never need to remember again about Federal financial aid). By the time Kasey and Veronica are old enough for college I can MAYBE still remember how to fill out a FAFSA application but I wouldn't bet on it.
And this will be a time of letting go. It won't be easy. Dear Lord, please help me to realize that it's not a bad thing to retire - it's just a different road to travel. And it doesn't matter that my sick leave credit is based on my life expectancy - although it's quite humorous to see how much time they are giving me at the outset. :) Yup, humorous is the right word I guess.
But hey - this is no time to think about life expectancy. I think God still has a lot in store for Ron and I.
It's time we found out - don't ya think?
Blessings and love and as always, may God bless our troops and those of us who wait.
Saturday, February 21, 2009
Keeping in Touch
Deployment is taking on a whole new meaning these days as Stephen's missions in the sand get longer and longer. It means that he isn't able to call, doesn't have the time to write, and internet access isn't something easily come by - he does have his computer with him, but internet access is expensive. And so, we hunker down now, write more letters, send more Kasey pictures and "artwork" and wait for the time when he can have a better schedule.
We have plenty to keep us busy these days. The house is sold, there is plenty to pack (and toss), and our furniture is being sold a piece or two at a time, which is great. We've had a few struggles here and there, but time is going really quickly and before we know it, life as we know it will be sooo much different. It's been our dream for a long time now to do this full time RVing thing, and now that the time is here, for me it's just a bit frightening. No. frightening is not the word. I can't think of a word to describe it, but it's not a bad thing. Just overwhelming. Yup, that's the word. Overwhelming. Whew - glad I got THAT figured out. :)
Kasey, Kasey, Kasey. Our days with him are going so quickly-the days with him yet to come are ahead of us like a wonderful beam of sunshine. Laurie calls every day so it's good that he can talk to mommy and stay connected to her during this long separation.
I've been bad about visiting your blogs - please forgive me. Having not been here for a week either, I can tell you that life just keeps going at break neck speed and I am trusting that it will slow down one of these days. It will, WON"T it?
God bless you all...and may He keep our troops safe in His care.
Deployment is taking on a whole new meaning these days as Stephen's missions in the sand get longer and longer. It means that he isn't able to call, doesn't have the time to write, and internet access isn't something easily come by - he does have his computer with him, but internet access is expensive. And so, we hunker down now, write more letters, send more Kasey pictures and "artwork" and wait for the time when he can have a better schedule.
We have plenty to keep us busy these days. The house is sold, there is plenty to pack (and toss), and our furniture is being sold a piece or two at a time, which is great. We've had a few struggles here and there, but time is going really quickly and before we know it, life as we know it will be sooo much different. It's been our dream for a long time now to do this full time RVing thing, and now that the time is here, for me it's just a bit frightening. No. frightening is not the word. I can't think of a word to describe it, but it's not a bad thing. Just overwhelming. Yup, that's the word. Overwhelming. Whew - glad I got THAT figured out. :)
Kasey, Kasey, Kasey. Our days with him are going so quickly-the days with him yet to come are ahead of us like a wonderful beam of sunshine. Laurie calls every day so it's good that he can talk to mommy and stay connected to her during this long separation.
I've been bad about visiting your blogs - please forgive me. Having not been here for a week either, I can tell you that life just keeps going at break neck speed and I am trusting that it will slow down one of these days. It will, WON"T it?
God bless you all...and may He keep our troops safe in His care.
Friday, February 13, 2009
Flight 3407
Last night, as I was turning out lights and getting ready for bed, I paused to sit at my computer for a few moments and listen to the 11 oclock local news. It was then that I learned about a small plane that crashed into a home in a suburb east of Buffalo, and it totally flattened the home and the entire neighborhood was witness to a home being demolished. The first reports were about a small plane, so I assumed it was a private plane. But it didn't matter what kind of a plane it was, those on board had perished, and most likely everyone in the home as well. And God heard my prayers along with those at the scene.
This morning, I turned on the news and sadly found out that the plane was a commuter plane flying into Buffalo with 49 people on board in mist and snow and wind. Somehow, the day went on, but in a state of sorrow for all of those lost.
You have probably all heard about it by now and so I add my prayers to yours. You probably have heard the stories of those on board - each of them personal, and sad.
But there were also the stories of God's grace for some of the would be passengers who missed Flight 3407 because of missed connections, or deciding not to go standby after all. All of these things were God's will, not luck, but God's Grace. I pray those lost now rest with Him and that those who mourn for their loved ones also know His peace. It's what we count on and appreciate when we don't have the answers to "why?"
May He be with us all and help us to appreciate our lives - and spread His love.
Last night, as I was turning out lights and getting ready for bed, I paused to sit at my computer for a few moments and listen to the 11 oclock local news. It was then that I learned about a small plane that crashed into a home in a suburb east of Buffalo, and it totally flattened the home and the entire neighborhood was witness to a home being demolished. The first reports were about a small plane, so I assumed it was a private plane. But it didn't matter what kind of a plane it was, those on board had perished, and most likely everyone in the home as well. And God heard my prayers along with those at the scene.
This morning, I turned on the news and sadly found out that the plane was a commuter plane flying into Buffalo with 49 people on board in mist and snow and wind. Somehow, the day went on, but in a state of sorrow for all of those lost.
You have probably all heard about it by now and so I add my prayers to yours. You probably have heard the stories of those on board - each of them personal, and sad.
But there were also the stories of God's grace for some of the would be passengers who missed Flight 3407 because of missed connections, or deciding not to go standby after all. All of these things were God's will, not luck, but God's Grace. I pray those lost now rest with Him and that those who mourn for their loved ones also know His peace. It's what we count on and appreciate when we don't have the answers to "why?"
May He be with us all and help us to appreciate our lives - and spread His love.
Friday, February 06, 2009
I see you smiling, Mom and Dad.
Today, my little sister Chelle became a grandma when her oldest daughter, my niece Nicole, gave birth to her first child. He was delivered by c-section since he weighed 9lbs. 5 oz. Big boy Van Christian is, but healthy - and his mommy is doing well also. I've been feeling pretty nostalgic today and thinking a lot about our family. This little boy is named for his grandpa, (we called him Skip, but his name was Van) whom he will never meet because he passed away 11 years ago. I know that he is smiling down with pride and happiness on his daughter and grandson.
There are three of us girls born to my mom and dad - poor dad had to wait til I gave birth to Scott to have a baby boy in the family. But Dad was proud of his family and I know he's smiling down with Mom as they see Chelle as a new grandma. All their girls are grandmas. There's kind of a completeness about it, you know? Chelle and her hubby Bob will be wonderful grandparents - just like Mom and Dad were.
And so, welcome to the world little Van Christian. There are many of us who haven't met you, and yet we love you. The world is good - don't let anyone tell you different. Tonight your mommy's and daddy's world is perfect....and it's just the beginning for you all.
I am so thankful for my mom and dad - for bringing us up in a loving and happy home. It makes days like today even more perfect.
Be blessed Nicole and Bryan and Van. God is watching over you all with His great -and very tender - goodness and love.
Today, my little sister Chelle became a grandma when her oldest daughter, my niece Nicole, gave birth to her first child. He was delivered by c-section since he weighed 9lbs. 5 oz. Big boy Van Christian is, but healthy - and his mommy is doing well also. I've been feeling pretty nostalgic today and thinking a lot about our family. This little boy is named for his grandpa, (we called him Skip, but his name was Van) whom he will never meet because he passed away 11 years ago. I know that he is smiling down with pride and happiness on his daughter and grandson.
There are three of us girls born to my mom and dad - poor dad had to wait til I gave birth to Scott to have a baby boy in the family. But Dad was proud of his family and I know he's smiling down with Mom as they see Chelle as a new grandma. All their girls are grandmas. There's kind of a completeness about it, you know? Chelle and her hubby Bob will be wonderful grandparents - just like Mom and Dad were.
And so, welcome to the world little Van Christian. There are many of us who haven't met you, and yet we love you. The world is good - don't let anyone tell you different. Tonight your mommy's and daddy's world is perfect....and it's just the beginning for you all.
I am so thankful for my mom and dad - for bringing us up in a loving and happy home. It makes days like today even more perfect.
Be blessed Nicole and Bryan and Van. God is watching over you all with His great -and very tender - goodness and love.
Saturday, January 31, 2009
Turning Corners.
It's been quite a week here - the weather has been horrendous. Snow. Snow! Snow!!
The lady that looked at our house says she wants it but has done nothing about a formal offer so we will list it next week and hopefully sell quickly. We will also start packing and get ready for a household sale. I will also check into the preliminary paperwork for retirement - it takes 30 days or so to retire. :)
All of this is much like the driving I had to do during all of these snow storms we've had. You know about the turning corners thing - slow down, but keep your foot off the break and if you start to slide just go with it and don't turn the wheel the other way.
Kasey is a good little boy but has had a couple of rough days in school this week which carried over to home at least one of those days. Got himself (and grandma) good and upset before we even left the day care parking lot on the drive home one day and by the time we got home it was getting worse. Once we got home and in the house, and out of our cold weather garb. I sat down on the step. pulled him over to me and sat him on my lap and we talked, and apologized to each other - the good and sincere apology that comes with a warm hug and a heartfelt, "I love you."
We're just trying to make our way here - turning the corners, so to speak. Scott has some health issues and I know that he is thinking about us leaving - it isn't going to be as easy as it seems. We all look forward to the day when we retire - getting there isn't easy though, is it?
Laurie is doing very well in school, Stephen instant messages to us all when he can although we are like ships passing in the night because of the time and schedule difference. All I know is that when I see his name with a yellow happy face next to it on my messenger - even if his status is "Idle" or when I see both Stephen and Laurie's happy faces lit up, then there is a big piece of my heart that is at peace.
Turning corners isn't a bad thing - it's good when you know what will be ahead of you, but we don't know God's will and I'm not about to guess. I am hoping that this huge corner we are headed for will be easier to navigate than what it seems like now.
Think I will give my brain a rest this weekend and watch the Superbowl. Yup, that's what we will do. Watch some of the hype, order some pizza or maybe make some hot soup and sandwiches and veg in front of the TV.
And wait for the weather advisories to crawl across the bottom of the TV. :)
Sounds like a plan. Hope YOUR weekend is a good one too. Many blessings.
God bless our troops and those of us who wait.
It's been quite a week here - the weather has been horrendous. Snow. Snow! Snow!!
The lady that looked at our house says she wants it but has done nothing about a formal offer so we will list it next week and hopefully sell quickly. We will also start packing and get ready for a household sale. I will also check into the preliminary paperwork for retirement - it takes 30 days or so to retire. :)
All of this is much like the driving I had to do during all of these snow storms we've had. You know about the turning corners thing - slow down, but keep your foot off the break and if you start to slide just go with it and don't turn the wheel the other way.
Kasey is a good little boy but has had a couple of rough days in school this week which carried over to home at least one of those days. Got himself (and grandma) good and upset before we even left the day care parking lot on the drive home one day and by the time we got home it was getting worse. Once we got home and in the house, and out of our cold weather garb. I sat down on the step. pulled him over to me and sat him on my lap and we talked, and apologized to each other - the good and sincere apology that comes with a warm hug and a heartfelt, "I love you."
We're just trying to make our way here - turning the corners, so to speak. Scott has some health issues and I know that he is thinking about us leaving - it isn't going to be as easy as it seems. We all look forward to the day when we retire - getting there isn't easy though, is it?
Laurie is doing very well in school, Stephen instant messages to us all when he can although we are like ships passing in the night because of the time and schedule difference. All I know is that when I see his name with a yellow happy face next to it on my messenger - even if his status is "Idle" or when I see both Stephen and Laurie's happy faces lit up, then there is a big piece of my heart that is at peace.
Turning corners isn't a bad thing - it's good when you know what will be ahead of you, but we don't know God's will and I'm not about to guess. I am hoping that this huge corner we are headed for will be easier to navigate than what it seems like now.
Think I will give my brain a rest this weekend and watch the Superbowl. Yup, that's what we will do. Watch some of the hype, order some pizza or maybe make some hot soup and sandwiches and veg in front of the TV.
And wait for the weather advisories to crawl across the bottom of the TV. :)
Sounds like a plan. Hope YOUR weekend is a good one too. Many blessings.
God bless our troops and those of us who wait.
Friday, January 23, 2009
Just when I thought I was home free....
Ok, I've been thinking to myself since October, "let's try to make this a winter without an upper respiratory infection...can we do that, Susan?" As December passed into January and I got through all the busy-ness of the holidays - shopping in stores with people who should be home taking care of their colds, not catching any of the colds other kids shared with Veronica and Kasey in school and day care, and getting three weeks into January, I was just thinking the other day, "HA! You're gonna do it!"
And then there was yesterday morning when the familiar scratchy throat, red nose and eyes, and sneezing hit. One of my staff members told me when she saw me first thing yesterday morning, "you look and sound sick!" (encouraging way to start the day). Good thing I love her. :) And when I woke up at 3:30 this morning head pounding, sneezing, etc., I decided to get up as usual at 5:15, take my sudafed, wait til 6:15 and see how I felt. At 6:15, I picked up the phone and called in a voicemail to my Supervisor that I wouldn't be in today. I can do some things here today - need to do a spreadsheet and that will be easy without having any interuptions. Well, not counting Lily begging to have her ears scratched.
Things are changing for me at work. Our director sent out an email yesterday to the entire organization asking them not to call me for customer service issues since I am preparing to retire and the staff needs to learn the issues and the answers they should be giving. No longer will I be doing processing, but rather documenting the things that my supervisor would like me to leave behind. It feels different already -not like I'm not still needed but as if the baton has already been passed. It's hard, you know? And if it's hard for me to do NOW, how difficult will it be for me when I leave?
Well, there is always the fact that I am retiring to be with Ron and the rest of our family. There is the fact that we will be traveling and we will have Kasey with us. I think I can get used to that without ANY problem at all. But we will be leaving Scott and Veronica behind...THIS will be a heartbreaker for Nana, Papa and I think for Veronica too. Scott might miss us a bit also. :) but hopefully they will be able to travel to see us - with a little help from our checking account once in awhile.
And so today, I will nurse my cold, and my sciatica, and build my color coded spread sheet. Tomorrow we will go hunting for RVs again - Kasey loves doing this and has to sit in the driver's seat in every motor home that's there. Of course we won't be buying a motor home, but he can still enjoy looking at them.
We are waiting for the lady who looked at the house last week to be able to bring her son through with her. This is good, don't you think? She's had a week to think about it and she still wants the house. YAY!
Time for my sudafed....blessings for your weekend.
God bless our troops.
Ok, I've been thinking to myself since October, "let's try to make this a winter without an upper respiratory infection...can we do that, Susan?" As December passed into January and I got through all the busy-ness of the holidays - shopping in stores with people who should be home taking care of their colds, not catching any of the colds other kids shared with Veronica and Kasey in school and day care, and getting three weeks into January, I was just thinking the other day, "HA! You're gonna do it!"
And then there was yesterday morning when the familiar scratchy throat, red nose and eyes, and sneezing hit. One of my staff members told me when she saw me first thing yesterday morning, "you look and sound sick!" (encouraging way to start the day). Good thing I love her. :) And when I woke up at 3:30 this morning head pounding, sneezing, etc., I decided to get up as usual at 5:15, take my sudafed, wait til 6:15 and see how I felt. At 6:15, I picked up the phone and called in a voicemail to my Supervisor that I wouldn't be in today. I can do some things here today - need to do a spreadsheet and that will be easy without having any interuptions. Well, not counting Lily begging to have her ears scratched.
Things are changing for me at work. Our director sent out an email yesterday to the entire organization asking them not to call me for customer service issues since I am preparing to retire and the staff needs to learn the issues and the answers they should be giving. No longer will I be doing processing, but rather documenting the things that my supervisor would like me to leave behind. It feels different already -not like I'm not still needed but as if the baton has already been passed. It's hard, you know? And if it's hard for me to do NOW, how difficult will it be for me when I leave?
Well, there is always the fact that I am retiring to be with Ron and the rest of our family. There is the fact that we will be traveling and we will have Kasey with us. I think I can get used to that without ANY problem at all. But we will be leaving Scott and Veronica behind...THIS will be a heartbreaker for Nana, Papa and I think for Veronica too. Scott might miss us a bit also. :) but hopefully they will be able to travel to see us - with a little help from our checking account once in awhile.
And so today, I will nurse my cold, and my sciatica, and build my color coded spread sheet. Tomorrow we will go hunting for RVs again - Kasey loves doing this and has to sit in the driver's seat in every motor home that's there. Of course we won't be buying a motor home, but he can still enjoy looking at them.
We are waiting for the lady who looked at the house last week to be able to bring her son through with her. This is good, don't you think? She's had a week to think about it and she still wants the house. YAY!
Time for my sudafed....blessings for your weekend.
God bless our troops.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Are We a Different Nation?
Today - we have probably all heard at least 10 times - is a day for the history books. As one President leaves as some (most?) do ~ with a less than pleasing performance in the eyes of many ~ we can be thankful that we live in a country where WE get to decide our next leader. Of course not all of us chose the same man (and we came oh so close to being able to say "woman"), but I think we now need to put all of the political stuff behind us and get on the same page. Support our nation by working together. It won't always be pretty, but it is democracy at work. We have youth in the White House - not just in the man and woman who are the first parents of the nation, but in their cute little girls. It's been awhile since the White House has been occupied by children as young as the Obama girls - and they will most certainly love the experience.
And so, ARE we a different nation tonight? I must admit that I wish I could have watched the inauguration events today - and will try to catch some of the reruns and highlights tonight. It is exciting - and yet a bit heartbreaking at the same time. We see a man take the oath of office for the highest and most influential position in the free world - maybe in the entire world.
And we pray - for him, for his family, and his safety. We pray that God will give him wisdom and strength; the energy - and the conscience - to do what is right for this awesome nation and the interests of the world.
But no matter where our political affiliations are, we are also seeing a President go home to his native state of Texas. A man who showed what he was made of on September 11, 2001. Who made some poor choices over the course of 8 years, but I truly believe kept our nation safe from other terror attacks. I am one of those in the minority because I still believe George Bush is a good man. I pray God will bless him with a restful conscience - because every man who has good intentions and a peaceful heart should have a sense of accomplishment over a job that is way too much for a normal man to endure 24/7, 365.
This is probably the MOST outspoken post you will ever see on Two Star Mom. But I try to see the good in everyone - I believe there were so many good intentions in the man who left the oval office today.
And may God be gracious to the man who will be at work there in the morning. The new Commander in Chief for those who serve. Dear Lord, may they be able to look to him with confidence and security in who he is.
Maybe we CAN be a different nation - and rely on God's will instead of mankind's.
God bless America and the troops who defend her.
Today - we have probably all heard at least 10 times - is a day for the history books. As one President leaves as some (most?) do ~ with a less than pleasing performance in the eyes of many ~ we can be thankful that we live in a country where WE get to decide our next leader. Of course not all of us chose the same man (and we came oh so close to being able to say "woman"), but I think we now need to put all of the political stuff behind us and get on the same page. Support our nation by working together. It won't always be pretty, but it is democracy at work. We have youth in the White House - not just in the man and woman who are the first parents of the nation, but in their cute little girls. It's been awhile since the White House has been occupied by children as young as the Obama girls - and they will most certainly love the experience.
And so, ARE we a different nation tonight? I must admit that I wish I could have watched the inauguration events today - and will try to catch some of the reruns and highlights tonight. It is exciting - and yet a bit heartbreaking at the same time. We see a man take the oath of office for the highest and most influential position in the free world - maybe in the entire world.
And we pray - for him, for his family, and his safety. We pray that God will give him wisdom and strength; the energy - and the conscience - to do what is right for this awesome nation and the interests of the world.
But no matter where our political affiliations are, we are also seeing a President go home to his native state of Texas. A man who showed what he was made of on September 11, 2001. Who made some poor choices over the course of 8 years, but I truly believe kept our nation safe from other terror attacks. I am one of those in the minority because I still believe George Bush is a good man. I pray God will bless him with a restful conscience - because every man who has good intentions and a peaceful heart should have a sense of accomplishment over a job that is way too much for a normal man to endure 24/7, 365.
This is probably the MOST outspoken post you will ever see on Two Star Mom. But I try to see the good in everyone - I believe there were so many good intentions in the man who left the oval office today.
And may God be gracious to the man who will be at work there in the morning. The new Commander in Chief for those who serve. Dear Lord, may they be able to look to him with confidence and security in who he is.
Maybe we CAN be a different nation - and rely on God's will instead of mankind's.
God bless America and the troops who defend her.
Monday, January 19, 2009
This house belongs to Murphy's.
Hi everyone. It's been a busy week - cleaning, polishing, pitching and tossing. Ron helped so much - he was awesome. The lady did indeed stop on Saturday - she brought her sister and brother in law also since she is single - widowed or divorced - so she wanted some moral support in checking out things like the furnace, wiring, etc. She told us we would be seeing her again, and that she was going to call her lawyer to draw up an offer. We are really excited at this but are not holding our breath since the offer is what counts.
As long as the house is in good shape, :-), we are having a realtor come in on Friday, just in case the offer isn't what we have in mind, so that we can list it if the lady doesn't buy it.
And so, Murphy's Oil Soap comes through again.
Unfortunately, my little trip to the ditch finally reared it's ugly aftermath with a case of siatica. I haven't been able to sleep for the past 2 nights - pacing and praying away the spasms in my leg and ankle - with a good share of tears and sobs mixed in. I went to urgent care yesterday but the medicine they gave me really isn't touching it - today I have an appointment with my own doctor so hopefully he can check me out a bit more thouroughly - the NP didn't even have me put a gown on so that she could check me out. Not that I don't think she knows what she is doing, but the shot that she gave me was supposed to help within 15 minutes - and did not - and the pain killer isn't doing anything either.
So, this is my story and I am sticking to it. I sure hope I sleep better tonight - I could be retiring sooner than I thought if this lady is serious.
I can hope, right? Kasey is so excited.
Thanks Mr. Murphy. You did it again.
God bless our troops.
Sue
Hi everyone. It's been a busy week - cleaning, polishing, pitching and tossing. Ron helped so much - he was awesome. The lady did indeed stop on Saturday - she brought her sister and brother in law also since she is single - widowed or divorced - so she wanted some moral support in checking out things like the furnace, wiring, etc. She told us we would be seeing her again, and that she was going to call her lawyer to draw up an offer. We are really excited at this but are not holding our breath since the offer is what counts.
As long as the house is in good shape, :-), we are having a realtor come in on Friday, just in case the offer isn't what we have in mind, so that we can list it if the lady doesn't buy it.
And so, Murphy's Oil Soap comes through again.
Unfortunately, my little trip to the ditch finally reared it's ugly aftermath with a case of siatica. I haven't been able to sleep for the past 2 nights - pacing and praying away the spasms in my leg and ankle - with a good share of tears and sobs mixed in. I went to urgent care yesterday but the medicine they gave me really isn't touching it - today I have an appointment with my own doctor so hopefully he can check me out a bit more thouroughly - the NP didn't even have me put a gown on so that she could check me out. Not that I don't think she knows what she is doing, but the shot that she gave me was supposed to help within 15 minutes - and did not - and the pain killer isn't doing anything either.
So, this is my story and I am sticking to it. I sure hope I sleep better tonight - I could be retiring sooner than I thought if this lady is serious.
I can hope, right? Kasey is so excited.
Thanks Mr. Murphy. You did it again.
God bless our troops.
Sue
Sunday, January 11, 2009
Could this be?
Friday night after I got out of work, we took Kasey to a local place for dinner - we had a fish fry, Kasey had one of his usuals...spaghetti, no sauce - no thank you to the meatball this time.
When we got home, there were three messages on the answering machine. One was from the insurance company about our November accident. Another was a reminder for an appointment. And the third was a lady who said she heard that we are going to be selling our house and could she come and look at it?
Huh? Somebody wants to look at our house and it's not even on the market yet?
I mentioned to Ron it would be a good thing to give me a week to get ready - so that I can do some heavy cleaning. And so, she will be here Saturday.
As I was going through the last of the basement things today, I stopped to think about it a bit. I asked Ron if I could keep the whole book in which my one and only published poem is - or if I had to tear out the poem and throw out the book. :) I half expected he would say tear out the poem, but he could tell by the look on my face that this would not be a wise answer. Little by little we are REALLY getting into the swing of things here and I find that I can throw things out after all. Half of the basement floor has been given a new coat of paint - Ron will do the other half tomorrow. It looks clean and bright.
But could it be that this is really happening? This retirement thing, selling the house, moving adventure - it's really going to happen?
I cried a bit thinking of how difficult it will be to leave the home we've lived in for nearly 29 years. But Ron said, "it will be hard for us all but remember that we are just leaving a house - the home and the memories go with us."
I hate it when he's right - but this time am very thankful too.
God bless you - thanks for stopping by. And may He bless our troops - and those who wait.
Sue
Friday night after I got out of work, we took Kasey to a local place for dinner - we had a fish fry, Kasey had one of his usuals...spaghetti, no sauce - no thank you to the meatball this time.
When we got home, there were three messages on the answering machine. One was from the insurance company about our November accident. Another was a reminder for an appointment. And the third was a lady who said she heard that we are going to be selling our house and could she come and look at it?
Huh? Somebody wants to look at our house and it's not even on the market yet?
I mentioned to Ron it would be a good thing to give me a week to get ready - so that I can do some heavy cleaning. And so, she will be here Saturday.
As I was going through the last of the basement things today, I stopped to think about it a bit. I asked Ron if I could keep the whole book in which my one and only published poem is - or if I had to tear out the poem and throw out the book. :) I half expected he would say tear out the poem, but he could tell by the look on my face that this would not be a wise answer. Little by little we are REALLY getting into the swing of things here and I find that I can throw things out after all. Half of the basement floor has been given a new coat of paint - Ron will do the other half tomorrow. It looks clean and bright.
But could it be that this is really happening? This retirement thing, selling the house, moving adventure - it's really going to happen?
I cried a bit thinking of how difficult it will be to leave the home we've lived in for nearly 29 years. But Ron said, "it will be hard for us all but remember that we are just leaving a house - the home and the memories go with us."
I hate it when he's right - but this time am very thankful too.
God bless you - thanks for stopping by. And may He bless our troops - and those who wait.
Sue
Thursday, January 08, 2009
And in tonight's headlines....
We had a really miserable weather day here today. First, I overslept and woke up at 5:45 when the phone rang. It was one of my staff saying she wouldn't be able to come into work today.
So then I looked outside and even though it was pitch dark, it looked like a tundra. First "executive" decision of the day: "Kasey is staying home from preschool today," I announced to Ron, who really just wanted to go back to bed (and he did, but he was up again before I left).
Hmmm, maybe I should wait to go into work when the roads are better," I thought.
Second executive decision: "No, I'll get an early start so I can get there on time."
And therein was the mistake.
I should have realized when I had to plow through ruts and snow piles to get on our rural expressway that it wasn't plowed very well. Now, in the 15 years I have been doing the 30 some mile commute (each way) to my job, I have driven in snow storms that would knock your sox off. Why should today be any different?
Except that it was, and 15 minutes into my commute, going 23 miles per hour, I skidded off the road, down the embankment, and the car came to rest facing the wrong way in a water filled ditch. After calling the police, then Ron - who had tried to convince me to go in late - I sat there in the pitch dark, crying and thanking God. The car could have very easily flipped and I could have been upside down in the water. Anyway, the towing place said they could be there in two hours so I would just have to "sit tight." (Like I was going anywhere?)
The tow truck finally arrived and it only took him about 20 minutes to pull me out. There's a little damage to the driver's side front end - there was so much mud on the front of the car that we thought the license plate was missing - but once I was home and Ron rinsed off the car, the plate was there...just caked with mud from the trip into the ditch.
On tonight's news, as they talked about the weather and the accidents and the cars off the road, a picture popped up on the video, and there I was, big as life, sitting in the ditch.
Tonight I am sore, thankful, and extremely tired. You know how a person gets a surge of adrenalin in situations like that once they know they are alright? Well, the adrenalin doesn't last very long and eventually the aches set in. This is me wondering why the heck I am still up.
Bed time for this two star mom. Ron is driving me in tomorrow.
When one of the policemen stopped to check on me, I told him that I had so much on my desk I planned on doing today. He said, "well, this is why we are given another day - you can do it tomorrow."
Oh and just a couple other things. People care - as was evidenced in the 10 or 12 cars which either stopped or slowed down to check on me. For those who did that in such dangerous conditions, even if it was to roll down their window and holler out, "ARE YOU OK?" it was a gift.
I wasn't alone in the dark - well, eventually, the light.
And oh yes, the other thing....SEAT BELTS REALLY DO SAVE LIVES.
I am livng proof.
Thank you, God.
God bless our troops.
We had a really miserable weather day here today. First, I overslept and woke up at 5:45 when the phone rang. It was one of my staff saying she wouldn't be able to come into work today.
So then I looked outside and even though it was pitch dark, it looked like a tundra. First "executive" decision of the day: "Kasey is staying home from preschool today," I announced to Ron, who really just wanted to go back to bed (and he did, but he was up again before I left).
Hmmm, maybe I should wait to go into work when the roads are better," I thought.
Second executive decision: "No, I'll get an early start so I can get there on time."
And therein was the mistake.
I should have realized when I had to plow through ruts and snow piles to get on our rural expressway that it wasn't plowed very well. Now, in the 15 years I have been doing the 30 some mile commute (each way) to my job, I have driven in snow storms that would knock your sox off. Why should today be any different?
Except that it was, and 15 minutes into my commute, going 23 miles per hour, I skidded off the road, down the embankment, and the car came to rest facing the wrong way in a water filled ditch. After calling the police, then Ron - who had tried to convince me to go in late - I sat there in the pitch dark, crying and thanking God. The car could have very easily flipped and I could have been upside down in the water. Anyway, the towing place said they could be there in two hours so I would just have to "sit tight." (Like I was going anywhere?)
The tow truck finally arrived and it only took him about 20 minutes to pull me out. There's a little damage to the driver's side front end - there was so much mud on the front of the car that we thought the license plate was missing - but once I was home and Ron rinsed off the car, the plate was there...just caked with mud from the trip into the ditch.
On tonight's news, as they talked about the weather and the accidents and the cars off the road, a picture popped up on the video, and there I was, big as life, sitting in the ditch.
Tonight I am sore, thankful, and extremely tired. You know how a person gets a surge of adrenalin in situations like that once they know they are alright? Well, the adrenalin doesn't last very long and eventually the aches set in. This is me wondering why the heck I am still up.
Bed time for this two star mom. Ron is driving me in tomorrow.
When one of the policemen stopped to check on me, I told him that I had so much on my desk I planned on doing today. He said, "well, this is why we are given another day - you can do it tomorrow."
Oh and just a couple other things. People care - as was evidenced in the 10 or 12 cars which either stopped or slowed down to check on me. For those who did that in such dangerous conditions, even if it was to roll down their window and holler out, "ARE YOU OK?" it was a gift.
I wasn't alone in the dark - well, eventually, the light.
And oh yes, the other thing....SEAT BELTS REALLY DO SAVE LIVES.
I am livng proof.
Thank you, God.
God bless our troops.
Tuesday, January 06, 2009
Sleeping Beauties
Veronica spent the day here today with Ron - she had some sort of bug thing going on with her tummy so had to stay home from school...that means Papa answers the phone at 8 am and comes to the rescue cause Tina had to work. It was a relatively quiet day - this is pretty much how it looked for the entire afternoon. Veronica is ALLOWED to sleep on the couch with out a blanket under her - all people are allowed on our couch.
Lily, however is a different story....she is supposed to have her blanket covering the couch beneath her. Hmmm - guess Papa got the sleeping beauties mixed up, or else he just didn't want to disturb the sleeping watch dog.
Must be nice, huh?
God bless our troops and those of us who love them.
Blessings my friends...
Sue
Saturday, January 03, 2009
And so, we begin again.
Happy New Year my friends. With many good wishes that your 2009 will be bright with hope and good health and happiness.
I am a bit late on that but it's been a busy couple of days around here as we get back into the "just us three" routine. We took Kasey to a local mall yesterday - did some window shopping and went to a show.
I managed to keep from crying at the airport when Stephen and Laurie left. Choked back some tears and had to turn around to wipe a few stray tears away, but it was important to their little family that we remained strong so as not to make it any more upsetting than it was. Doubly difficult for Laurie and Stephen since they were not only leaving Kasey, but each other.
We begin phase 2 now - the rest of Stephen's deployment, Laurie's intense class schedule, and the continuing adventure for Kasey (and for us too).
2009 will be a year unlike any other for our family. The next few weeks will be pitching and tossing time. Setting some things aside for one more garage sale in the spring, and for packing to go in the RV. The manufacturer of the RVs that we were most interested in is going under so even though we were planning on buying one that isn't brand new, it won't be that kind since service and parts would be hard to come by.
And blitzing the house is mandatory. Once I get some of the extra stuff out of the way, flat surfaces cleared, etc., it will be time to show no mercy with the cleaning supplies.
Monday sees me back at work and Kasey back at pre-school. Two weeks off has been wonderful but if I am ever going to retire, I need to clear my desk.
And so, the mission begins. Clean the house, clear the desk, call the realtor. Kasey can help - there are a lot of things to be gotten rid of so he can help me in doing that.
Whew - what a year to look forward to.
With Stephen returned to the sand, I can tell you that the magnitude of deployment is hitting me a bit harder...seeing them all together, and now knowing they are apart. So many families going through this same experience - but I prefer to keep it on the positive side and give thanks for the two weeks we've had together. God is good.
May He bless you richly in 2009.
Happy New Year my friends. With many good wishes that your 2009 will be bright with hope and good health and happiness.
I am a bit late on that but it's been a busy couple of days around here as we get back into the "just us three" routine. We took Kasey to a local mall yesterday - did some window shopping and went to a show.
I managed to keep from crying at the airport when Stephen and Laurie left. Choked back some tears and had to turn around to wipe a few stray tears away, but it was important to their little family that we remained strong so as not to make it any more upsetting than it was. Doubly difficult for Laurie and Stephen since they were not only leaving Kasey, but each other.
We begin phase 2 now - the rest of Stephen's deployment, Laurie's intense class schedule, and the continuing adventure for Kasey (and for us too).
2009 will be a year unlike any other for our family. The next few weeks will be pitching and tossing time. Setting some things aside for one more garage sale in the spring, and for packing to go in the RV. The manufacturer of the RVs that we were most interested in is going under so even though we were planning on buying one that isn't brand new, it won't be that kind since service and parts would be hard to come by.
And blitzing the house is mandatory. Once I get some of the extra stuff out of the way, flat surfaces cleared, etc., it will be time to show no mercy with the cleaning supplies.
Monday sees me back at work and Kasey back at pre-school. Two weeks off has been wonderful but if I am ever going to retire, I need to clear my desk.
And so, the mission begins. Clean the house, clear the desk, call the realtor. Kasey can help - there are a lot of things to be gotten rid of so he can help me in doing that.
Whew - what a year to look forward to.
With Stephen returned to the sand, I can tell you that the magnitude of deployment is hitting me a bit harder...seeing them all together, and now knowing they are apart. So many families going through this same experience - but I prefer to keep it on the positive side and give thanks for the two weeks we've had together. God is good.
May He bless you richly in 2009.
Sunday, December 28, 2008
And the days dwindle down...
The past 10 days have been a whirlwind of activity at our house - and of course we've done our share of activity at the local malls. We have watched Kasey enjoy being with his mommy and daddy - the three of them fit together like a glove. Santa came and went - actually he just rested a bit and mentioned something about sticking around til next year. HUGE dinner on Thursday which was really good (sorry, that sounds somewhat boastful but really, Ron prepped the roast and put it in the oven, brined the turkey and roasted that too). I made the side dishes like stuffing, the mashed potatoes, Yorkshire pudding, the squash, green bean casserole, whipped cream fruit salad, homemade gravies - turkey and beef - and the apple crisp and blueberry pie.
I was blessed in that Ron, Scott and Vi, Stephen and Laurie cleaned up the kitchen for me and you know what that can be like after a holiday meal is cooked.
And there have been the quiet afternoons and evenings - playing Rummikub and Risk (now WHY would I play Risk - a military strategy game with two soldiers and a Navy Veteran)?
Kasey has been a happy little boy - I have of course stepped back from the guardian role and have just been grandma, letting his mom and dad make all the decisions about things. Today we went to the library - wish I could have had a camera when I happened on Ron and Kasey in "their" reading corner.
And so, as the days dwindle down, I am so thankful we've had this time with our soldiers. I knew it couldn't last forever and will enjoy every moment we have yet to spend together. If you could please pray for them as they leave one another, and Kasey, it would be so appreciated.
Funny thing, whenever Ron and I used to visit them - or they would visit us - we'd always joke about keeping Kasey. Ironically, it's not a joke anymore - we DO get to keep him. I smile in gratitude, while my eyes mist over at the thought of them separating again.
I know that God will keep me strong; it is my one certainty - Faith.
God bless our troops and those who love them.
The past 10 days have been a whirlwind of activity at our house - and of course we've done our share of activity at the local malls. We have watched Kasey enjoy being with his mommy and daddy - the three of them fit together like a glove. Santa came and went - actually he just rested a bit and mentioned something about sticking around til next year. HUGE dinner on Thursday which was really good (sorry, that sounds somewhat boastful but really, Ron prepped the roast and put it in the oven, brined the turkey and roasted that too). I made the side dishes like stuffing, the mashed potatoes, Yorkshire pudding, the squash, green bean casserole, whipped cream fruit salad, homemade gravies - turkey and beef - and the apple crisp and blueberry pie.
I was blessed in that Ron, Scott and Vi, Stephen and Laurie cleaned up the kitchen for me and you know what that can be like after a holiday meal is cooked.
And there have been the quiet afternoons and evenings - playing Rummikub and Risk (now WHY would I play Risk - a military strategy game with two soldiers and a Navy Veteran)?
Kasey has been a happy little boy - I have of course stepped back from the guardian role and have just been grandma, letting his mom and dad make all the decisions about things. Today we went to the library - wish I could have had a camera when I happened on Ron and Kasey in "their" reading corner.
And so, as the days dwindle down, I am so thankful we've had this time with our soldiers. I knew it couldn't last forever and will enjoy every moment we have yet to spend together. If you could please pray for them as they leave one another, and Kasey, it would be so appreciated.
Funny thing, whenever Ron and I used to visit them - or they would visit us - we'd always joke about keeping Kasey. Ironically, it's not a joke anymore - we DO get to keep him. I smile in gratitude, while my eyes mist over at the thought of them separating again.
I know that God will keep me strong; it is my one certainty - Faith.
God bless our troops and those who love them.
Monday, December 22, 2008
Friday, December 19, 2008
An Early Christmas.
I know - I've been awol in recent days. Kasey had a cold, work was kind of busy because it was the semester end final processing, and oh yeah, I got an early Christmas present.
On Wednesday, my phone rang at work. It was Ron - asking me to look outside. I said you are an hour early picking me up, but ok, I'll be right out. I left the office, went to the outer hallway and looked out the door. Sitting in his carseat grinning like crazy was Kasey. And sitting next to him - looking at me - was Stephen. STEPHEN!! I screamed. Went out the door and hugged him within an inch of his life. A financial aid advisor - also a good friend - was on his way back into the office, witnessed the whole thing and came over to shake Stephen's hand. And another good friend was witnessing the whole thing through her office window.
To say that I was shocked just doesn't do it. To say that I was happy also doesn't do it...but to say that I cried unabandoned tears of joy? That's more like it.
Ron knew it was a possibility last week and then he got the call on Tuesday from Stephen that he was on his way home and could he pick him up from the airport.
Laurie didn't know and wouldn't have known had she not checked their checking account online this morning and found out that someone had used Stephen's bank card to buy some stuff yesterday...and rented a car. When she instant messaged me I told her every thing Stephen told me to say. An hour later the phone rang. "He's there, isn't he?" said the very familiar voice on the other end of the line. She figured it out when she found out that he had taken money out of an atm and used his pin number.
And so, when Laurie arrives in the next couple of days, we will be complete.
Half my Christmas was all wrapped up in camoflage on Wednesday afternoon and the remainder will arrive on a big bird which hopefully won't be delayed by weather difficulties. My cup is overflowing because Scott and Vi and Veronica will be here also. The tree will go up on Sunday and the kids will do the decorating. And I will just watch and smile.
And thank our Lord for His tender mercies.
God is good.
May He bless our troops wherever they may be.
I know - I've been awol in recent days. Kasey had a cold, work was kind of busy because it was the semester end final processing, and oh yeah, I got an early Christmas present.
On Wednesday, my phone rang at work. It was Ron - asking me to look outside. I said you are an hour early picking me up, but ok, I'll be right out. I left the office, went to the outer hallway and looked out the door. Sitting in his carseat grinning like crazy was Kasey. And sitting next to him - looking at me - was Stephen. STEPHEN!! I screamed. Went out the door and hugged him within an inch of his life. A financial aid advisor - also a good friend - was on his way back into the office, witnessed the whole thing and came over to shake Stephen's hand. And another good friend was witnessing the whole thing through her office window.
To say that I was shocked just doesn't do it. To say that I was happy also doesn't do it...but to say that I cried unabandoned tears of joy? That's more like it.
Ron knew it was a possibility last week and then he got the call on Tuesday from Stephen that he was on his way home and could he pick him up from the airport.
Laurie didn't know and wouldn't have known had she not checked their checking account online this morning and found out that someone had used Stephen's bank card to buy some stuff yesterday...and rented a car. When she instant messaged me I told her every thing Stephen told me to say. An hour later the phone rang. "He's there, isn't he?" said the very familiar voice on the other end of the line. She figured it out when she found out that he had taken money out of an atm and used his pin number.
And so, when Laurie arrives in the next couple of days, we will be complete.
Half my Christmas was all wrapped up in camoflage on Wednesday afternoon and the remainder will arrive on a big bird which hopefully won't be delayed by weather difficulties. My cup is overflowing because Scott and Vi and Veronica will be here also. The tree will go up on Sunday and the kids will do the decorating. And I will just watch and smile.
And thank our Lord for His tender mercies.
God is good.
May He bless our troops wherever they may be.
Tuesday, December 09, 2008
Not just another week.
Where does a week go? I can tell you that it sometimes vanishes into thin air. And the days go all too quickly.
But it really has been a blessed week. I am learning that it takes time to practice patience and love. There are wonderful things that need to be noticed and celebrated and savored.
Time with friends and family - one and the same in some cases. This past Sunday, our Pastor who has been serving our church as a licensed Deacon, was ordained at our church. The service was one of the most blessed and joyfilled and beautiful services I have ever attended. And our Pastor is finally a Reverend and so deserves this title. If God ever gave someone a heart to serve, it is our Pastor. He is faith FILLED, faithFUL ( to God and to our congregation and to the mission of spreading the Gospel), and has a love for Jesus that is so contagious. It was just a wonderful day.
My friend Betty and I were blessed to be part of the service - and though I was at first a bit nervous, when the time came to do what Pastor had asked of me, I walked down the aisle in total peace. God does that sometimes if we let Him. To just concentrate on the blessing and joy. Sunday, I let Him and I was richer by far for the experience.
Kasey and I have had our ups and our downs at times, I have definitely needed to raise my voice since he seems to want to push me to the limit, and then says "Ok Grandma" when I have reached that point. Funny little boy. but this perpetual inner happiness this journey is giving me just keeps things rolling along. The end of the day can't come soon enough just to know that I will be picking him up and bringing him home with me.
Yesterday, I promised him he could make snow angels when we got home. And so, as he laid in the snow and waved his arms and legs back and forth in the pure white snow, I decided it was a moment too good to pass up. I dropped everything that I was carrying, turned around, and fell on my back in the snow next to Kasey - snow angels are something you never forget how to make - and the fun of being on my back in the snow with my 3 year old grandson next to me enjoying the same unabandoned experience - well let me tell you that it brings tears to my eyes from the sheer joy of the moment. Life should be that uncomplicated more often, don't you think?
Stephen says they are very busy - I cringe when I hear that but we are so grateful for his phone calls. The one thing I remember about the last deployments was the loneliness I feel after we talk to him. I can almost sense the loneliness he must feel as the delay in our conversation reminds me of the distance we are from this young man we love so much.
I know it will be ok - even though it's sometimes one foot in front of the other, one day, one hour, one moment at a time. I tell Kasey that mommy will be home soon, and that daddy will be so glad to get our Christmas box. Hickory Farms stuff is on order, all the special coffee and snacks just about in the box and ready to go. I need to make some cookies but I think that I will be sending some special ones from the local bakery - their butter cookies are fabulous. Saturday will be a busy day packing and sending.
Dear Lord, thank you for the blessings you have bestowed on our family and on our church this past week. I know that Your will is at work - help me to seek You always - in all ways.
God bless our troops in these coming weeks as they spend this joyful season of peace far from home. And may those who serve - no matter WHERE they serve - find the dearest Friend of all and the Prince of Peace right there beside them.
Where does a week go? I can tell you that it sometimes vanishes into thin air. And the days go all too quickly.
But it really has been a blessed week. I am learning that it takes time to practice patience and love. There are wonderful things that need to be noticed and celebrated and savored.
Time with friends and family - one and the same in some cases. This past Sunday, our Pastor who has been serving our church as a licensed Deacon, was ordained at our church. The service was one of the most blessed and joyfilled and beautiful services I have ever attended. And our Pastor is finally a Reverend and so deserves this title. If God ever gave someone a heart to serve, it is our Pastor. He is faith FILLED, faithFUL ( to God and to our congregation and to the mission of spreading the Gospel), and has a love for Jesus that is so contagious. It was just a wonderful day.
My friend Betty and I were blessed to be part of the service - and though I was at first a bit nervous, when the time came to do what Pastor had asked of me, I walked down the aisle in total peace. God does that sometimes if we let Him. To just concentrate on the blessing and joy. Sunday, I let Him and I was richer by far for the experience.
Kasey and I have had our ups and our downs at times, I have definitely needed to raise my voice since he seems to want to push me to the limit, and then says "Ok Grandma" when I have reached that point. Funny little boy. but this perpetual inner happiness this journey is giving me just keeps things rolling along. The end of the day can't come soon enough just to know that I will be picking him up and bringing him home with me.
Yesterday, I promised him he could make snow angels when we got home. And so, as he laid in the snow and waved his arms and legs back and forth in the pure white snow, I decided it was a moment too good to pass up. I dropped everything that I was carrying, turned around, and fell on my back in the snow next to Kasey - snow angels are something you never forget how to make - and the fun of being on my back in the snow with my 3 year old grandson next to me enjoying the same unabandoned experience - well let me tell you that it brings tears to my eyes from the sheer joy of the moment. Life should be that uncomplicated more often, don't you think?
Stephen says they are very busy - I cringe when I hear that but we are so grateful for his phone calls. The one thing I remember about the last deployments was the loneliness I feel after we talk to him. I can almost sense the loneliness he must feel as the delay in our conversation reminds me of the distance we are from this young man we love so much.
I know it will be ok - even though it's sometimes one foot in front of the other, one day, one hour, one moment at a time. I tell Kasey that mommy will be home soon, and that daddy will be so glad to get our Christmas box. Hickory Farms stuff is on order, all the special coffee and snacks just about in the box and ready to go. I need to make some cookies but I think that I will be sending some special ones from the local bakery - their butter cookies are fabulous. Saturday will be a busy day packing and sending.
Dear Lord, thank you for the blessings you have bestowed on our family and on our church this past week. I know that Your will is at work - help me to seek You always - in all ways.
God bless our troops in these coming weeks as they spend this joyful season of peace far from home. And may those who serve - no matter WHERE they serve - find the dearest Friend of all and the Prince of Peace right there beside them.
Tuesday, December 02, 2008
It's all in how you look at it.
Yesterday morning, Kasey and I didn't have a very good start. He was slow and grouchy, and I was late and stressed. He didn't want to get up, or get dressed, or eat his breakfast. There was new snow on the ground - and on the roads, and it was cold and windy. As I hurried Kasey through our morning routine, I raised my voice a few times. It surprised him - and upset me.
But by the time we were on our way to his preschool, things were better. Still, it set the tone for my day. Last night after I picked up Kasey, we went to the local convenient store for a couple of things: thick crusty bread to go with Ron's homemade sauce and meatballs; chocolate chip ice cream; some cones to put the ice cream in, and some cookies. As we stood at the checkout, Kasey was moving away toward some displays. I used my debit card to pay for the groceries and then Kasey and I left. When we got home, I took Kasey out of his carseat and went to carry the things into the house. I noticed one thing was missing: my purse. Handing every thing to Ron, I said that I would be right back - that I was going to pick up my purse. Thankfully it was still there and as I drove home I realized how blessed I am. And how sweating the small stuff really doesn't pay. And what the most important things truly are.
This morning, Kasey didn't get up well again. But I just kept coaxing him gently and he was awake in a couple of minutes asking me to carry him into the dining room for his breakfast. He was slow, but agreeable; silly, but willing to cooperate. ("ok, grandma, but WHY?") The streets were slippery but we made it to daycare ok and Kasey got to wear his baseball cap instead of the knit hat. Because in his words, it makes him look cool. Can't argue that. I was 10 minutes late getting started to work, traffic was heavy, the roads were slick. But guess who was smiling? Yup! Me! And I was there in plenty of time.
And so, beginning today, the job is important - being on time something that I don't want to compromise. But darn it, Kasey and me - we need to have good mornings. It makes for happier days for us both and for wonderful reunions at the end of each day.
I smile and thank God at the thought of so many days ahead of us. They won't always be great because there will be moments of frustration for us both. But oh the special times that are ours because of the moments we have in the early mornings - it's our time and it's a blessing for me.
I pray it is for Kasey too.
God bless our Troops.
Yesterday morning, Kasey and I didn't have a very good start. He was slow and grouchy, and I was late and stressed. He didn't want to get up, or get dressed, or eat his breakfast. There was new snow on the ground - and on the roads, and it was cold and windy. As I hurried Kasey through our morning routine, I raised my voice a few times. It surprised him - and upset me.
But by the time we were on our way to his preschool, things were better. Still, it set the tone for my day. Last night after I picked up Kasey, we went to the local convenient store for a couple of things: thick crusty bread to go with Ron's homemade sauce and meatballs; chocolate chip ice cream; some cones to put the ice cream in, and some cookies. As we stood at the checkout, Kasey was moving away toward some displays. I used my debit card to pay for the groceries and then Kasey and I left. When we got home, I took Kasey out of his carseat and went to carry the things into the house. I noticed one thing was missing: my purse. Handing every thing to Ron, I said that I would be right back - that I was going to pick up my purse. Thankfully it was still there and as I drove home I realized how blessed I am. And how sweating the small stuff really doesn't pay. And what the most important things truly are.
This morning, Kasey didn't get up well again. But I just kept coaxing him gently and he was awake in a couple of minutes asking me to carry him into the dining room for his breakfast. He was slow, but agreeable; silly, but willing to cooperate. ("ok, grandma, but WHY?") The streets were slippery but we made it to daycare ok and Kasey got to wear his baseball cap instead of the knit hat. Because in his words, it makes him look cool. Can't argue that. I was 10 minutes late getting started to work, traffic was heavy, the roads were slick. But guess who was smiling? Yup! Me! And I was there in plenty of time.
And so, beginning today, the job is important - being on time something that I don't want to compromise. But darn it, Kasey and me - we need to have good mornings. It makes for happier days for us both and for wonderful reunions at the end of each day.
I smile and thank God at the thought of so many days ahead of us. They won't always be great because there will be moments of frustration for us both. But oh the special times that are ours because of the moments we have in the early mornings - it's our time and it's a blessing for me.
I pray it is for Kasey too.
God bless our Troops.
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