Well, after a long layoff, due mostly to laziness, I am back. Truly back as well, in the sense I am back from the UK in the States for a strange Christmas journey.
Baylie and I came back last Saturday so that I could bring her to Wylie. She was a really good travel companion, and I even got a cuddle or two out of her. I know those moments are going to be fewer and farther between as she is getting older very fast--10 in 7 weeks, where has the time gone?
I had an adventuresome, brief day and a half at the house. The furnace room flooded, the car wouldn't start, and the ATM ate my card in the space of 10 hours. Ahh good times. But I won playing poker that night, so all was not lost.
The next day had me on my way to San Antonio via Tulsa & Houston for a whirlwind adventure. Trying to wedge 6 wonderful friends into 8 days is no small feat, but I came prepared with a plan, and so far--knock, knock--we are on schedule. Even ahead, if you count my bonus time last night. Score!
Tuesday was Aaron, Bre, Carson, Abby and Chris Madrid's. Boy, I sure miss being able to get a good burger. Had an awesome time. The kids remembered me, so we didn't have to spend the first hour or so having them warm up to me. Quite the opposite actually, with me becoming a road for Carson's cars within 5 minutes and Abby drawing me a picture of Aaron and I together. Aaron and I fell back into our old witty banter habits, remembering old times, and making new memories. Its so fun to be a grown up some times, especially when you are remembering just how dumb you used to be. Bre was as lovely as ever, and holds her own with us, which is wonderful. Really thankful God blessed AP with such an amazing wife. Oh, and by the way, EASILY the best photographer around. So talented Bre, still feel lucky you worked for us a million years ago. (OK, 4 and a half, but still.) What a wonderful and beautiful family. I love you guys so much!
Wednesday was a day for Mom and Dad. Dad is on call most of this week, but was off that day, so we wedged as much as possible in. Big breakfast at Mimi's Cafe, Dad and I took in Avatar 3D, and then a Brazilian steakhouse (OMG!) for dinner. The food was good all around, the movie was a visual stunner, even if it is a hippy propaganda movie telling us how bad we humans are.
Yesterday, I FINALLY got to see Kristen again. Only been 8 years, but lucky for me, she is great about keeping in touch. Coffee at Starbucks turned into two hours of catching up. Had a really great time and she invited me out with her and her brother after their evening church service, so I got a double shot of KW; lucky me. Hope its not another 8 years, hon, thanks for a great time!
Wedged in the middle yesterday was our Christmas dinner, which, though very nice and definitely tasty, seemed quiet and strange with just the three of us. No kids, no wife, no sister. Gotta say, not a fan. As much as I love you Mom and Dad, I hope this doesn't happen again. We went for dessert and drinks afterwards to Eric & Nina's, friends of my parents and mine since living in SA. Was nice catching up, and extra nice seeing as how Nina has been battling cancer, but is now in remission. Definitely an answered prayer!
So, here I sit, Christmas Day 2009. My family is literally spread out around the world. Much has happened this year. Starting with the news of CP & Epilepsy, through to the news we were moving abroad, to this moment. I couldn't have come close to predicting it. What a lucky guy I am though. With a great wife, three amazing kids--including a miracle, wonderful family and friends who are just as close as family I have made it through. I have griped and groaned (ask Lace), laughed and cried, sang praises and tilted at windmills, and here I am. Hopefully stronger, indeed enriched, and overall; extremely blessed.
So thank you, thank you all so very very much. I hope that I return a portion to you of what y'all give to me. To all of you reading this, I love you, and I am definitely a better person for knowing you. My life would not be what it is without you, no matter how often or how little we actually see each other or talk.
Merry Christmas (I know, I am getting carried away, roll with it) and I hope the new year brings you everything you hope and wish for.
C
Friday, December 25, 2009
Monday, November 16, 2009
Vent
I sit here in a quiet house, 2 kids asleep. Sounds like a parents dream right? The major problem with this one is that its missing one kid and its more like a recurring nightmare. Another night of hospitalization for a 16 month old who has spent so much time escaping those hollow, disinfectant smelling hallways, and another night of worry for us.
On the surface, this one would seem to be the most minor of her issues, but if you look deeper, it is nearly as troubling.
She is a trooper and I am not in any way attempting to over-dramatize this instance. More to the point, I am trying to rationalize and get a clear picture of what the rest of her life/our lives are going to look like. We try not to live in fear of scary words such as "shunt failure," "seizure," "stroke," "developmental delay," and "pneumonia," but I am beginning to wonder if we are truly taking it day by day and trying to be positive, or are we deluding ourselves in fear of seeing the real story. Should we instead prepare for our lives to be tossed into a washing machine once, twice, three times a year?
On top of it all, these other two little girls, are having to deal with Real World issues far too soon. As a parent you'd like to be able to shelter your kids and protect them from the ugliness of the world around them. Rian had her second birthday interrupted by an early preganancy and has, unfortunately, had too much attention taken away from her too soon. We both agree that this may be one reason for the--shall we call it rambunctiousness--that she possesses. And poor Baylie. Today, while at school, the mother of one of her classmates died suddenly. By the end of the day, they found out it was a stroke. Baylie doesn't say or show much, but surely these things affect her. I hope, over time, she realizes the need to talk about these issues as opposed to bottling them up. Lord knows, that tactic never worked for me.
So...anyone reading this. If you haven't already, or even if you have, it won't kill you, say a prayer for us. All of us. I know that I am blessed to have a wonderful family, both near and far. Thank you for all of your thoughts, and your notes and well-wishes.
C
On the surface, this one would seem to be the most minor of her issues, but if you look deeper, it is nearly as troubling.
- She was almost hospitalized twice last year with pneumonia.
- She has had breathing issues from the beginning of her 7 week early entrance to this world.
- Her body weight and size are no help in the matter as they have never had a real chance to catch up.
- Her immune system as a whole is weaker than the rest due to incubator time, birth weight, medical issues and so forth.
She is a trooper and I am not in any way attempting to over-dramatize this instance. More to the point, I am trying to rationalize and get a clear picture of what the rest of her life/our lives are going to look like. We try not to live in fear of scary words such as "shunt failure," "seizure," "stroke," "developmental delay," and "pneumonia," but I am beginning to wonder if we are truly taking it day by day and trying to be positive, or are we deluding ourselves in fear of seeing the real story. Should we instead prepare for our lives to be tossed into a washing machine once, twice, three times a year?
On top of it all, these other two little girls, are having to deal with Real World issues far too soon. As a parent you'd like to be able to shelter your kids and protect them from the ugliness of the world around them. Rian had her second birthday interrupted by an early preganancy and has, unfortunately, had too much attention taken away from her too soon. We both agree that this may be one reason for the--shall we call it rambunctiousness--that she possesses. And poor Baylie. Today, while at school, the mother of one of her classmates died suddenly. By the end of the day, they found out it was a stroke. Baylie doesn't say or show much, but surely these things affect her. I hope, over time, she realizes the need to talk about these issues as opposed to bottling them up. Lord knows, that tactic never worked for me.
So...anyone reading this. If you haven't already, or even if you have, it won't kill you, say a prayer for us. All of us. I know that I am blessed to have a wonderful family, both near and far. Thank you for all of your thoughts, and your notes and well-wishes.
C
Monday, November 2, 2009
Halloween Weekend 2009
Okay, so it just happened that Halloween fell on our first chance to take a vacation. Kinda weird being away for Halloween, since it is very much a local thing. We didn't know neighborhoods, so we just let the kids dress up for dinner, then bought them some candy and had a pig out fest in the hotel room. At least it will be something different to remember.
Other nice things to remember include; visiting Nottingham Castle. A 1200 year old castle that has been a focal point for many historical events, one of which you probably didn't know, the Robin Hood Legend. Yeah, crazy name, I know, but he was aguy who robbed the rich to protest a false leadership and helped the poor. That sorta sums it up, but you should check it out, pretty cool stuff. Also it mark sthe spot of the decree which started the English Civil War. Who knew they had one of those too? Didn't get great pictures due to some strange weather and lighting, but we can prove we were there.
Attached to the castle, or more appropriately, the castle's cave system, is the oldest Inn in England/Pub in the the world. Kinda neat. Three stories (being generous here) all in the cave openings, and a pretty cool spot to think about the guys who had a pint (more likely a tankard back then, you're right) before soldiering off to the Crusades, or some such English whim.
Then there is Sherwood Forest. A large gathering of trees some 25 miles to the North of Nottingham (think Robin Hood actually jogged down to Nottingham?) with the main focal point being Major Oak, the oldest tree in England (Scotland has one older!), estimate to be about 800-1000 years old. Also said to be a meeting point/HQ for RH and his Merry Men. Very massive. Very impressive. Got me to thinking though. If that legend is 800 years old, and the tree is thereabouts or a little older, why were they meeting at that particular tree? Wasn't very impressive back then. Crazy legends and their convenient lies.
Also, Rian is starting to understand that Disney is a liar. She was upset (again) that there were no princesses at the castle and that RH was nowhere to be found. She did have a marvelous conversation with Baylie regarding their walking stick (because you HAVE to have a walking stick in the forest) wherein she told Baylie that "potentially" her stick was bigger after Baylie told her they were basically the same size. How does a dead stick have potential? Not sure, also not sure how a three year is spouting those kinda words. She sure doesn't get that vocab from her Dad (wink, wink)
And finally, this vacation was a nice retreat from a period of the year that has come to be full of memories, good and bad, for the Butler & McCallum & Collinsworth families. It is always the time of year I dread the most, and I try to keep as busy as possible during this time. For those of you who don't know, suffice it to say there has been a fair bit of tragedy (too strong?) and loss at this time of year, and for those of you who do know and may remember, thank you for your prayers and thoughts for my family.
Love you all!
C
Other nice things to remember include; visiting Nottingham Castle. A 1200 year old castle that has been a focal point for many historical events, one of which you probably didn't know, the Robin Hood Legend. Yeah, crazy name, I know, but he was aguy who robbed the rich to protest a false leadership and helped the poor. That sorta sums it up, but you should check it out, pretty cool stuff. Also it mark sthe spot of the decree which started the English Civil War. Who knew they had one of those too? Didn't get great pictures due to some strange weather and lighting, but we can prove we were there.
Attached to the castle, or more appropriately, the castle's cave system, is the oldest Inn in England/Pub in the the world. Kinda neat. Three stories (being generous here) all in the cave openings, and a pretty cool spot to think about the guys who had a pint (more likely a tankard back then, you're right) before soldiering off to the Crusades, or some such English whim.
Then there is Sherwood Forest. A large gathering of trees some 25 miles to the North of Nottingham (think Robin Hood actually jogged down to Nottingham?) with the main focal point being Major Oak, the oldest tree in England (Scotland has one older!), estimate to be about 800-1000 years old. Also said to be a meeting point/HQ for RH and his Merry Men. Very massive. Very impressive. Got me to thinking though. If that legend is 800 years old, and the tree is thereabouts or a little older, why were they meeting at that particular tree? Wasn't very impressive back then. Crazy legends and their convenient lies.
Also, Rian is starting to understand that Disney is a liar. She was upset (again) that there were no princesses at the castle and that RH was nowhere to be found. She did have a marvelous conversation with Baylie regarding their walking stick (because you HAVE to have a walking stick in the forest) wherein she told Baylie that "potentially" her stick was bigger after Baylie told her they were basically the same size. How does a dead stick have potential? Not sure, also not sure how a three year is spouting those kinda words. She sure doesn't get that vocab from her Dad (wink, wink)
And finally, this vacation was a nice retreat from a period of the year that has come to be full of memories, good and bad, for the Butler & McCallum & Collinsworth families. It is always the time of year I dread the most, and I try to keep as busy as possible during this time. For those of you who don't know, suffice it to say there has been a fair bit of tragedy (too strong?) and loss at this time of year, and for those of you who do know and may remember, thank you for your prayers and thoughts for my family.
Love you all!
C
Robin & Marian Statue
Robin Hood
Peek-a-boo! on the castle grounds
A Royal decree
The Inn/Pub since 1189
First cool tree we found
Rian inside said tree
A deep conversation, I'm sure
Major Oak with the girls
Major Oak
One more time
Forest Walk
Leasea in all her glory, designed by Rian
Happy Halloween!
New coat, e-mailing Nonni
Are you done, Mom?
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
And it was dark...
As dark as night, night, night. With apologies to Mr. Joel, I had forgotten how dark and how quickly it gets that way this far North.
How dark you ask? Well, if you blink, you've missed the sunset, if a group of seniors are playing a round of golf in front of you, forget finishing, and if you can't wait to get the kids to bed at night so you can relax, lie to them, cuz they can't tell time anyhow. Well, at least the little ones, and then I just have to bribe Baylie not to blab.
On top of Daylight Savings Time hitting here a week earlier than we thought, throwing our entire weekend out of whack, Baylie is on "half-term." Basically a fall break, but I am not sure from what, because I am not seeing a whole lot of anything school work wise. So she is bored, its too cold and wet to play outside and Lace is gone, so she and I drive 50-60 minutes round trip in the mornings in traffic and the same in th eevening. If we weren't paying so dang much for the care, I would just keep the little 'uns home as well. Maybe not good idea, considering that Rian was too impatient this weekend to wait for her promised "make-up" party, so she decided to give the NEW chair a make-over. Lipstick, nail polish and concealer leave marks in case anyone is wondering.
We are heading on our first holiday--vacation for us regular English speakers--and we let the kids pick. Bright idea. Now we are headed to Nottingham and Sherwood Forest to prove to Rian that Disney lies to kids. Should be a grand time. Wonder if I can pay some local down on their luck girls to dress up and pretend to be princesses? Better not, probably get arrested for solicitation. I don't want that, I want to get deported, NOT arrested.
And when we get back next Monday I get to prepare for "Tuesday of Pain." Which is to say that I'll need to work out after the break and I am getting the newest tattoo. Said to take four hours, this could be trouble; probably more for Leasea, who'll be greasing and lotioning my back for several days. And we all know how much she hates touching me...
Sorry such a long lay-off, try to do better!
How dark you ask? Well, if you blink, you've missed the sunset, if a group of seniors are playing a round of golf in front of you, forget finishing, and if you can't wait to get the kids to bed at night so you can relax, lie to them, cuz they can't tell time anyhow. Well, at least the little ones, and then I just have to bribe Baylie not to blab.
On top of Daylight Savings Time hitting here a week earlier than we thought, throwing our entire weekend out of whack, Baylie is on "half-term." Basically a fall break, but I am not sure from what, because I am not seeing a whole lot of anything school work wise. So she is bored, its too cold and wet to play outside and Lace is gone, so she and I drive 50-60 minutes round trip in the mornings in traffic and the same in th eevening. If we weren't paying so dang much for the care, I would just keep the little 'uns home as well. Maybe not good idea, considering that Rian was too impatient this weekend to wait for her promised "make-up" party, so she decided to give the NEW chair a make-over. Lipstick, nail polish and concealer leave marks in case anyone is wondering.
We are heading on our first holiday--vacation for us regular English speakers--and we let the kids pick. Bright idea. Now we are headed to Nottingham and Sherwood Forest to prove to Rian that Disney lies to kids. Should be a grand time. Wonder if I can pay some local down on their luck girls to dress up and pretend to be princesses? Better not, probably get arrested for solicitation. I don't want that, I want to get deported, NOT arrested.
And when we get back next Monday I get to prepare for "Tuesday of Pain." Which is to say that I'll need to work out after the break and I am getting the newest tattoo. Said to take four hours, this could be trouble; probably more for Leasea, who'll be greasing and lotioning my back for several days. And we all know how much she hates touching me...
Sorry such a long lay-off, try to do better!
Saturday, October 10, 2009
Tech-know
One of the strangest things in my lifetime, to me, is the rapid, almost exponential growth of technology. The amount of ground covered in the last quarter century plus is astounding, and truly, the thing of novels. Sci-fi writers of years gone by dreamed of these things, yet, I believe they too would be shocked at just how quickly things have snowballed.
I recall, as a child, sitting and listening to records with my dad, and also, him shouting at me if I walked/ran too heavily about and made them skip. (Mind you, I think he was a bit nuts expecting a kid not too make a record skip, but, whatever) Then came tapes; ones that we listened to so many times on our cross-country trips, that they wore out. The Highwaymen, The Final Countdown, Dirty Dancing Soundtrack, Thriller, Bad, etc. Then CDs came along and the massive boom they created with record sales at all time highs. Now, 15 years or so after my first CD, I don't even know anyone who buys CDs anymore, most people make their own. A long way from making mix tapes by listening to the radio all day long waiting for the DJ to announce your favorite song. A mean, really, a DJ? Local radio? Pshaw.
Or how about communications? One of my many fond childhood memories is riding up front with my dad on trips while my mom sat in back with my sister. Why? Well, I got to play on the CB. Just like the Duke Boys and The Bandit. What could be cooler? I'll tell you what, a phone, that was only the size of a child's shoe box, that you could take anywhere with you and make calls to anywhere. You're kidding you say. NO, I am not; only the size of a child's shoe box. Now, my iPhone has all the info I'll ever need in the pam of my hand. Just crazy.
Nearly two-thirds of my life ago, (For those counting, that is only twenty years give or take, but the other way of putting it makes me sound like a wise old sage.) when my family was living in Germany, we would have to set times to be at the house, and make sure the family 6 hours behind us in time (back in time??) was also at their house once a week to have a chit chat. Why did we have to be around, you might wonder. Well, who had answering machines? Not us non-rich people, that's for sure. Now, I am able to look at my family and friends (at least those of you who have been paying attention and gotten Skype, ahem) while I talk to them...for free! Its amazing.
And computers? I remember getting our first computer when we lived in KY in 1985-86. It was the coolest, I could play wonderful, pixellated games that made no sense whatsoever, and it all ran from a cool thing called DOS. Or when we moved to San Antonio and got to connect to the World Wide Web and AOL. I chat and make friends with anyone from anywhere, all after using our phone line to screech and pop onto the web. Cool, huh? Well, just yesterday I finally got all the UK components and was able to link my Xbox and computer and DVD and receiver up again.
Or how about cameras? Or Cars? Or TVs? Or TV channels? Ok, some of you older folks may just appreciate the color on TV, but good for you too. And the list goes on and on. What will we be talking about 10 years from now?
Anyway, that about does it, gonna save this, then go and play games on my Coleco Vision. Just kidding.
I recall, as a child, sitting and listening to records with my dad, and also, him shouting at me if I walked/ran too heavily about and made them skip. (Mind you, I think he was a bit nuts expecting a kid not too make a record skip, but, whatever) Then came tapes; ones that we listened to so many times on our cross-country trips, that they wore out. The Highwaymen, The Final Countdown, Dirty Dancing Soundtrack, Thriller, Bad, etc. Then CDs came along and the massive boom they created with record sales at all time highs. Now, 15 years or so after my first CD, I don't even know anyone who buys CDs anymore, most people make their own. A long way from making mix tapes by listening to the radio all day long waiting for the DJ to announce your favorite song. A mean, really, a DJ? Local radio? Pshaw.
Or how about communications? One of my many fond childhood memories is riding up front with my dad on trips while my mom sat in back with my sister. Why? Well, I got to play on the CB. Just like the Duke Boys and The Bandit. What could be cooler? I'll tell you what, a phone, that was only the size of a child's shoe box, that you could take anywhere with you and make calls to anywhere. You're kidding you say. NO, I am not; only the size of a child's shoe box. Now, my iPhone has all the info I'll ever need in the pam of my hand. Just crazy.
Nearly two-thirds of my life ago, (For those counting, that is only twenty years give or take, but the other way of putting it makes me sound like a wise old sage.) when my family was living in Germany, we would have to set times to be at the house, and make sure the family 6 hours behind us in time (back in time??) was also at their house once a week to have a chit chat. Why did we have to be around, you might wonder. Well, who had answering machines? Not us non-rich people, that's for sure. Now, I am able to look at my family and friends (at least those of you who have been paying attention and gotten Skype, ahem) while I talk to them...for free! Its amazing.
And computers? I remember getting our first computer when we lived in KY in 1985-86. It was the coolest, I could play wonderful, pixellated games that made no sense whatsoever, and it all ran from a cool thing called DOS. Or when we moved to San Antonio and got to connect to the World Wide Web and AOL. I chat and make friends with anyone from anywhere, all after using our phone line to screech and pop onto the web. Cool, huh? Well, just yesterday I finally got all the UK components and was able to link my Xbox and computer and DVD and receiver up again.
Or how about cameras? Or Cars? Or TVs? Or TV channels? Ok, some of you older folks may just appreciate the color on TV, but good for you too. And the list goes on and on. What will we be talking about 10 years from now?
Anyway, that about does it, gonna save this, then go and play games on my Coleco Vision. Just kidding.
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Just pictures really
Not a lot to say here. Went to Framlingham Castle in the town of...wait for it...Framlingham. Pretty nice, definitely a spot to return to, by ourselves or with company. Pretty well intact, good photo opportunities, but Kelsie was getting a cold, and Rian was upset that no princesses actually lived there, so the day was cut a bit short.
Anyhow, enjoy.
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Anyhow, enjoy.
Nice face, Rian
They really do love their Kels!
The wind!
See? I really am in England
From one tower across the interior of the castle
Up a wall from the courtyard
A school outside the castle walls, across the mere
Through a "window" out onto the countyside
The castle poorhouse, now giftshop, with school in background
LY all!
Monday, October 5, 2009
Requests?
No, no, no, I did not get a radio show over here. I don't think my taste would go over well here for one because everything sounds the same. They don't even seem to have an appreciation for the stuff that has come out of GB that is good. I digress.
I have been trying to work on my prayer life, and I would like to start praying for specific things. As of right now, I am praying for all my loved ones in generalitites, with the exception of a few. So, I have a request. If you don't mind, I would like some prayer requests. Praises are more than welcome too,but since I already take time out of my day to pray for you, (and if you are reading this, there is a 95% chance this includes you!) so why not allow me to pray for something that you truly need prayer for, or thanks for? If these are too personal, feel free to e-mail/facebook mail me. If they ae REALLY personal, just mention an unspoken request, and I will know to pray harder.
In a sense, you'd be doing me a favor as well; for several reasons. First, it helps me in my spiritual life. How awesome is it to be able to say that you have helped someone spiritually? ... That's what I thought. Second, and selfishly, it allows me to be close to you across the great distances between us. Time to reflect about our friendship and memories, and hopes and dreams.
This past week alone, I found out that two of my closest friends, two men who stood with me at my wedding, and their wives are pregnant. One couple for the second time, and one for the first time after years of practice. ;-) I can't begin to tell you how happy these two pieces of news made me. I am quite the little girl, so I obviously cried, but they were absolutely tears of joy!
So, if you happen to read this, even if I don't know you and you simply stumble across it, take a second and share something; you'll be helping us both!
Love you all!
I have been trying to work on my prayer life, and I would like to start praying for specific things. As of right now, I am praying for all my loved ones in generalitites, with the exception of a few. So, I have a request. If you don't mind, I would like some prayer requests. Praises are more than welcome too,but since I already take time out of my day to pray for you, (and if you are reading this, there is a 95% chance this includes you!) so why not allow me to pray for something that you truly need prayer for, or thanks for? If these are too personal, feel free to e-mail/facebook mail me. If they ae REALLY personal, just mention an unspoken request, and I will know to pray harder.
In a sense, you'd be doing me a favor as well; for several reasons. First, it helps me in my spiritual life. How awesome is it to be able to say that you have helped someone spiritually? ... That's what I thought. Second, and selfishly, it allows me to be close to you across the great distances between us. Time to reflect about our friendship and memories, and hopes and dreams.
This past week alone, I found out that two of my closest friends, two men who stood with me at my wedding, and their wives are pregnant. One couple for the second time, and one for the first time after years of practice. ;-) I can't begin to tell you how happy these two pieces of news made me. I am quite the little girl, so I obviously cried, but they were absolutely tears of joy!
So, if you happen to read this, even if I don't know you and you simply stumble across it, take a second and share something; you'll be helping us both!
Love you all!
Sunday, October 4, 2009
US in Italy
My trip to Italy last week was actual a little more eventful than looking at chickens. I had a very early flight to Venice that took us over the Swiss Alps.
The grandure of mountains that seems to pop out of the skies above the clouds. Barren peaks licked with white snow on one side, harsh stone on the other. Small villages filling the valleys below filled with a foggy mist. It was a nice way to begin the morning. I would love to someday see it from looking up.
The first evening that we were there we went for a late dinner in a small town. The streets were made of cobble stone. People were strolling along, riding bikes and pushing strollers (buggies). Very few cars were out. It felt like stepping back 100's of years. The 900 year old church with a clock tower stood at the end of the main street over looking a timeless picture. It's what you would imagine seeing in Italy. A lazy river running thru town. Window shopping for Italian shoes and clothes.
We ate at an outdoor resturant that had homemade pasta and pizzas along the cobble stone plaza. As I was setting in this relaxed ancient town a F-16 flies overhead and brings me to a realization of todays times. These people live among a war that is being fought a lot closer to them than the ones that are there to fight it. The roaring sound didn't seem to affect them a US base is very close, but to me? I can't explain the feelings that rushed over me. It was a mixture of pride, fear and confussion. It's different than having a F-16 fly over your head in the US. I think it came from an understanding that it wasn't there just for manuvers. It was there to protect.
The grandure of mountains that seems to pop out of the skies above the clouds. Barren peaks licked with white snow on one side, harsh stone on the other. Small villages filling the valleys below filled with a foggy mist. It was a nice way to begin the morning. I would love to someday see it from looking up.
The first evening that we were there we went for a late dinner in a small town. The streets were made of cobble stone. People were strolling along, riding bikes and pushing strollers (buggies). Very few cars were out. It felt like stepping back 100's of years. The 900 year old church with a clock tower stood at the end of the main street over looking a timeless picture. It's what you would imagine seeing in Italy. A lazy river running thru town. Window shopping for Italian shoes and clothes.
We ate at an outdoor resturant that had homemade pasta and pizzas along the cobble stone plaza. As I was setting in this relaxed ancient town a F-16 flies overhead and brings me to a realization of todays times. These people live among a war that is being fought a lot closer to them than the ones that are there to fight it. The roaring sound didn't seem to affect them a US base is very close, but to me? I can't explain the feelings that rushed over me. It was a mixture of pride, fear and confussion. It's different than having a F-16 fly over your head in the US. I think it came from an understanding that it wasn't there just for manuvers. It was there to protect.
Thursday, October 1, 2009
Time?
I was wondering how much time, or more precisely, how long do I have to be here, before I can start telling rude Britains off?
Doug and Kathy, you'll probably be the best to answer this. Or maybe not, because I can't actually see you doing that, and really want to.
What is bothering me is how opinionated these people are about our country. Obviously, my Southern U.S. accent gives me away, but I am not walking around with my nose up or speaking of their politics or economy, so why must everyone I meet tell me how great and wonderful and historical our new great* and wonderful* and historical President is?
It wouldn't even be that bad if they left it there, but it continues to:
Get my drift? All I am trying to do is not be the sterotypical "Ugly American" and just blend into society and try my hardest to avoid the next three years, not get into verbal battles between countries. Besides, I am pretty sure most of the people talking are unarmed anyhow.
The worst one yet, which made me excuse myself for a pretend phone call and step outside, was this gem:
"You Americans have no history, most of you just don't know you've only gone on a long holiday."
"WHAT?!? Look here, old-timer, you didn't fight--or did you, you're pretty old--and neither did I, but you guys lost, and we're not coming back." Of course, I said this into my phone, to myself, outside. Then came back into the clubhouse and changed the subject. To sports, which of course led down the of how wussy NFL players are vs. rugby and so on.
So...when? Probably the week before we leave, I reckon.
**green is for sarcasm
Doug and Kathy, you'll probably be the best to answer this. Or maybe not, because I can't actually see you doing that, and really want to.
What is bothering me is how opinionated these people are about our country. Obviously, my Southern U.S. accent gives me away, but I am not walking around with my nose up or speaking of their politics or economy, so why must everyone I meet tell me how great and wonderful and historical our new great* and wonderful* and historical President is?
It wouldn't even be that bad if they left it there, but it continues to:
- What are your thoughts?
- Where are you from?
- Oh, Texas? Where Bush is from? That why you moved to Arkansas/over here? He is horrible...blah, blah, blah
Get my drift? All I am trying to do is not be the sterotypical "Ugly American" and just blend into society and try my hardest to avoid the next three years, not get into verbal battles between countries. Besides, I am pretty sure most of the people talking are unarmed anyhow.
The worst one yet, which made me excuse myself for a pretend phone call and step outside, was this gem:
"You Americans have no history, most of you just don't know you've only gone on a long holiday."
"WHAT?!? Look here, old-timer, you didn't fight--or did you, you're pretty old--and neither did I, but you guys lost, and we're not coming back." Of course, I said this into my phone, to myself, outside. Then came back into the clubhouse and changed the subject. To sports, which of course led down the of how wussy NFL players are vs. rugby and so on.
So...when? Probably the week before we leave, I reckon.
**green is for sarcasm
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Rian's Prayer
After reading Franklin's Vowels: The Letter O, Short Sounds
"God and Jesus, welcome for my family, welcome we have a great day. So much fun. Please let no fox or hog or dog in my yard. Only a dog if its Maya. Please we can have a log and an otter to come over in my yard. Not a fire, for its hot, can burn my Kels. Welcome for only getting one scratch on my nose when I fell down the stairs. I want a top for Christmas or tomorrow. I had one yesterday."
Long pause.
Me: "Are you done? Say Amen."
Rian, "No, I listening."
Big Sigh.
Longer pause.
Rian, "Ok. Amen. Daddy, leave all the lights on for Maya to come visit, good night."
"God and Jesus, welcome for my family, welcome we have a great day. So much fun. Please let no fox or hog or dog in my yard. Only a dog if its Maya. Please we can have a log and an otter to come over in my yard. Not a fire, for its hot, can burn my Kels. Welcome for only getting one scratch on my nose when I fell down the stairs. I want a top for Christmas or tomorrow. I had one yesterday."
Long pause.
Me: "Are you done? Say Amen."
Rian, "No, I listening."
Big Sigh.
Longer pause.
Rian, "Ok. Amen. Daddy, leave all the lights on for Maya to come visit, good night."
Random thoughts
I am pretty sure that there was a bounty on my head today. I was almost run off the road 5 times, and stuck behind every large vehicle in Essex. And every senior citizen at the grocery store.
How come we have to remind ourselves most often the things we think we admire most? i.e. Prov 11:2 is my favorite verse. So how come I have trouble being humble sometimes and then have to kick my own butt for it? Or when I see someone exhibiting patience and realize its been so long since I have done that?
Also, why don't you pick up the phone and call someone, or send them an e-mail when you happen to wonder how someone is? You know, that person you haven't thought of in months, just pops into your head for a reason. Might be nice to reach out and find out why God sent you that IM.
Speaking of popping into heads, wonder whats going on in Kelsie's right now, as she sits on the floor laughing at the wall/floor/her left foot? How come I can't be that happy or that pleased by something so small? Conversely, what is Rian thinking when she pitches a fit? We don't give into her, so she knows that is not the way to get what she wants...she must just like bruising her legs as she flops onto hard floors. Huh. Maybe a simple pleasure for her.
Who knew seagulls liked onions so much? I sure didn't. However, the farms around here have many an onion field and its harvest season. (An aside - if you don't like onions, you wouldn't understand, but it smells amazing around here right now because of this) So anyhow, the coast is 30 drive-minutes away, not sure exactly how far as the gull-flies-miles, but its close. And they love it. They are all over the fields picking up scraps. Weird.
Ok, so I ventured out with the laptop and camera today as well. Actually am writing this from a picnic table behind a restaurant, underneath a viaduct that was built almost 300 years ago. Oh, you don't believe me huh? Well, it just so happens that I have proof. So pay up.
How come we have to remind ourselves most often the things we think we admire most? i.e. Prov 11:2 is my favorite verse. So how come I have trouble being humble sometimes and then have to kick my own butt for it? Or when I see someone exhibiting patience and realize its been so long since I have done that?
Also, why don't you pick up the phone and call someone, or send them an e-mail when you happen to wonder how someone is? You know, that person you haven't thought of in months, just pops into your head for a reason. Might be nice to reach out and find out why God sent you that IM.
Speaking of popping into heads, wonder whats going on in Kelsie's right now, as she sits on the floor laughing at the wall/floor/her left foot? How come I can't be that happy or that pleased by something so small? Conversely, what is Rian thinking when she pitches a fit? We don't give into her, so she knows that is not the way to get what she wants...she must just like bruising her legs as she flops onto hard floors. Huh. Maybe a simple pleasure for her.
Who knew seagulls liked onions so much? I sure didn't. However, the farms around here have many an onion field and its harvest season. (An aside - if you don't like onions, you wouldn't understand, but it smells amazing around here right now because of this) So anyhow, the coast is 30 drive-minutes away, not sure exactly how far as the gull-flies-miles, but its close. And they love it. They are all over the fields picking up scraps. Weird.
Ok, so I ventured out with the laptop and camera today as well. Actually am writing this from a picnic table behind a restaurant, underneath a viaduct that was built almost 300 years ago. Oh, you don't believe me huh? Well, it just so happens that I have proof. So pay up.
Ok, ya got me, those are 3 similar pictures
Haha! Now I got you! This is NOT a viaduct, but a wheelbarrow. Can't believe you fell for that.
Looks like someone got lazy and clocked out halfway through this job.
Saturday, September 26, 2009
Leasea's first post.
Okay, as you may all know I'm not as profuse with the words, but I wanted to say hello. I hope that people will be able to come and experience this a bit more than just thru our eyes. I can tell you what I love:
- The awesome view from the back of our house. There have been two mornings where I've been able to watch hot air ballons drift across the countryside. Theres' a nice village that sits in the valley below that looks like what you would imagine the English countryside to look like.
- I love the fresh foods. Regardless of what you hear, English food is not bad. You just have to venture out of what we flock to as Americans and eat English food. The breads are very nice and fresh. They melt in your mouth more so than Wonder bread. Pasta, bread, meat, fish, etc... all fresh. Not shipped from wherever.
- History. We have so very little history really. I love the old buildings, the architecture, the churchs, the castles.
-The beach. We haven't been able to explore much, but it will be nice for next summer.
- Footpaths. You can walk all over the place, where in the States it would be trespassing.
I've enjoyed going to the different countries, but there's the one thing that I don't like. I wish the family could go with me, but we'll be able to venture out a bit better as I get an understanding of what I'm doing. I've been to Italy twice and France once. Verona Italy is very interesting. I've not been able to explore anything, but agian I'm getting a good idea for the family later.
My first train ride thru France was weird. Airports are easy to get around because everything is translated to English. Train stations, not at all... My phone was dying and I speak two words of French. I obviously lived, but it was nice to stick my ipod earbuds in and listen to English music hoping I was on the right train and getting off at the right station. Must admit I faired pretty well. I went to Paris via Tours, but again I didn't see anything from the train except coutryside.
I want to say that I love and miss everyone back home. Hope you are all doing well.
- The awesome view from the back of our house. There have been two mornings where I've been able to watch hot air ballons drift across the countryside. Theres' a nice village that sits in the valley below that looks like what you would imagine the English countryside to look like.
- I love the fresh foods. Regardless of what you hear, English food is not bad. You just have to venture out of what we flock to as Americans and eat English food. The breads are very nice and fresh. They melt in your mouth more so than Wonder bread. Pasta, bread, meat, fish, etc... all fresh. Not shipped from wherever.
- History. We have so very little history really. I love the old buildings, the architecture, the churchs, the castles.
-The beach. We haven't been able to explore much, but it will be nice for next summer.
- Footpaths. You can walk all over the place, where in the States it would be trespassing.
I've enjoyed going to the different countries, but there's the one thing that I don't like. I wish the family could go with me, but we'll be able to venture out a bit better as I get an understanding of what I'm doing. I've been to Italy twice and France once. Verona Italy is very interesting. I've not been able to explore anything, but agian I'm getting a good idea for the family later.
My first train ride thru France was weird. Airports are easy to get around because everything is translated to English. Train stations, not at all... My phone was dying and I speak two words of French. I obviously lived, but it was nice to stick my ipod earbuds in and listen to English music hoping I was on the right train and getting off at the right station. Must admit I faired pretty well. I went to Paris via Tours, but again I didn't see anything from the train except coutryside.
I want to say that I love and miss everyone back home. Hope you are all doing well.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Have I mentioned...
...just how great Skype is? I mean, free calls/video calls anywhere in the world pc-pc for FREE! They are not paying me, and this isn't a commercial, this is a plea to all of our loved ones--we want to talk to you!
Megan--I see you are following along now. Thank you, I hope all is well. Please implore your much less attractive, "Bear in the Big Blue House" of a husband to download this as I miss him (and you and Avery. She'll be so grown by the time we get back!)
Bre--I know you are following too, and I know that with 37 blogs amongst the Powers family, surely someone is tech savvy enough to download this. Also, the kids, Bre, do it for the kids!
Kelly--Marley and Baylie could talk for hours! (Ok not really, I am definitely not ready for THAT!)
Jen--Ahem! Ahem! Sorry I had to clear my throat. Didn't you mention that you HAVE a webcam? We could see each other and chat, and the girls could see Aunt Jammer. How wonderful would that be?
Ahhh...ok. Enough of that. But you get the point. To recap: its free, we love you, and we want to talk to you. Yeah, we are selfish like that, so what?
FINE! I'll make it easy for you. Geez. Some people...
http://www.skype.com/intl/en-gb/download/skype/windows/
Love you all!
Megan--I see you are following along now. Thank you, I hope all is well. Please implore your much less attractive, "Bear in the Big Blue House" of a husband to download this as I miss him (and you and Avery. She'll be so grown by the time we get back!)
Bre--I know you are following too, and I know that with 37 blogs amongst the Powers family, surely someone is tech savvy enough to download this. Also, the kids, Bre, do it for the kids!
Kelly--Marley and Baylie could talk for hours! (Ok not really, I am definitely not ready for THAT!)
Jen--Ahem! Ahem! Sorry I had to clear my throat. Didn't you mention that you HAVE a webcam? We could see each other and chat, and the girls could see Aunt Jammer. How wonderful would that be?
Ahhh...ok. Enough of that. But you get the point. To recap: its free, we love you, and we want to talk to you. Yeah, we are selfish like that, so what?
FINE! I'll make it easy for you. Geez. Some people...
http://www.skype.com/intl/en-gb/download/skype/windows/
Love you all!
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
I see dead people...in waiting rooms
Okay, I guess its time for a serious blog with some serious opinion. Well, you all know I can't be completely serious, but mostly serious will be the order for today.
Russell Brand, the Brit celebrity who thinks of himself as a comedian, (I thought to be a comedian you had to be funny, but who am I to question? He hosted the past MTV awards and did some stuff this year as well, more on tha in a moment) had some more things to say about the state of the US political system as it stands. Last year he made comments in poor tatse hile throwing support behind Obama. (Maybe that is how he won, British voters) This year while describing differences between the UK and the US (told you he wasn't funny, I mean how original is that?) he said this:
"In England, instead of letting people die in the streets like here in the US, we have free healf (they can't say "th" over here) care!"
Wow. I saw this on Sunday and was shocked that this nonsense had happened two years in a row. Well, we are on the "free health care" side now. Lucky us right? Let me paint you a picture
Russell Brand, the Brit celebrity who thinks of himself as a comedian, (I thought to be a comedian you had to be funny, but who am I to question? He hosted the past MTV awards and did some stuff this year as well, more on tha in a moment) had some more things to say about the state of the US political system as it stands. Last year he made comments in poor tatse hile throwing support behind Obama. (Maybe that is how he won, British voters) This year while describing differences between the UK and the US (told you he wasn't funny, I mean how original is that?) he said this:
"In England, instead of letting people die in the streets like here in the US, we have free healf (they can't say "th" over here) care!"
Wow. I saw this on Sunday and was shocked that this nonsense had happened two years in a row. Well, we are on the "free health care" side now. Lucky us right? Let me paint you a picture
I took Baylie to the DR today to get a prescription refilled. Actually, let me start by saying I tried to make an appointment last week, but 9 days out was as soon as possible and we were told to go to the ER if we needed something sooner. Uhhh...OK. Anyhow, back to today. We show up 5 minutes before her appointment time with no one in the waiting room. Pretty good deal, since Bay is missing school for this. We have a seat as told, and just a scant forty-five minutes later we are ushered into the Doctors office. Now, mind you, no one has come or gone, which means the good Doc was sitting there by himself. As soon as we get in he asks what the prescription is for, we say ADD med, he says,
"Oh, you're American. We don't do that here. She needs to see a psychiatrist. I will refer you."
Uhhh.
So I say, "Great. How does that process work?"
"No problem," he replies, matter-of-factly. "They will contact you within two weeks, and you have three months to have an appointment made."
"Wow. (long pause by me) "That soon, huh?"
We are then shown out, clearly he has more important stuff to do, like twiddling of the thumbs, and cards for one.
So while, we may have people "dying in the streets" at least we're not dying 5 feet from the Doctor's office and getting the run-around all under the pretense of NATIONAL HELATH CARE.
But hey, we didn't have to pay for those (5)5 minutes, right?
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Cheeri-o!
No, no, I am not giving up on my blog just yet, so put the celebration on hold friends.
Kelsie is now feeding herself Cheerios! Its not graceful, its more of a fist to the mouth, and open it up to let the Cheerio fall in. (about an 80% success rate.) Still, I am amazed at how these little things are so momumental now. With Rian, I ALMOST took them for granted. She was normal, it was a natural progression, take some pictures, update family, move forward to next life building block.
Kelsie almost didn't have a life, so each breath is monumental if you break it all the way down. She is the toughest person, packed into 18 pounds I have ever met. With apologies to soldiers (Cliff, Pop, Papa Paul, etc included) firefighters, police, and all the other admirable people bravely serving above and beyond, my daughter takes the cake on this one.
I love you Kelsie!
Oh, and Rian was a giraffe on Friday too, FYI
Rian's version of the Dallas Zoo statue
So that wraps it up, guess I'll say...bye! (betacha thaought I was going to say Cheeri-o!)
Friday, September 18, 2009
R.I.P. Good coffee
You are reading the post of a broken hearted man. After being assured that my Keurig machine would work here with a converter, I now have no coffee machine. It ran one cycle, and much to my delight, I had a wonderful cup of Kona in just seconds. While attempting to refill itself, it shut down. Completely. I am hoping to have it fixed upon return to the U.S. because as I just found out, it would cost approximately 140 pounds to fix. That is about $235. And it still wouldn't work here, because I also found out, that it is more powerful than my TV, Computer, Printer and Xbox 360 combined.
So I gone from this
to this
And was hoping to go back to the prettier picture, but alas, I am stuck for awhile with the ol soluble yuck.
Keurig isn't even available here or for UK power. Oh, how the day has turned.
Also, our box spring doesn't fit up the stairs to our bedroom, so...its the air mattress for us tonight. Which would be ok...if I had a good cup of coffee to awake to.
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Oh!
Duh...
My five for Dinner:
The Apostle Paul
Bill Murray
Jack Kerouac
Thomas Jefferson
Ryne Sandberg
To have a pint with:
Oscar Wilde
Ernest Hemingway
Benjamin Franklin
George Carlin
Ryne Sandberg
My five for Dinner:
The Apostle Paul
Bill Murray
Jack Kerouac
Thomas Jefferson
Ryne Sandberg
To have a pint with:
Oscar Wilde
Ernest Hemingway
Benjamin Franklin
George Carlin
Ryne Sandberg
The bed is yet to come...
Okay, so admittedly I am not always the best at taking a long-term view of things. One of my several-ok many-faults. The fact that I recognize this at least, I believe, is good. I am pretty decent at knowing what I am not good at, just not great at fixing it. I guess we can add that to the list of faults. Wait, don't really make a list. Surely you have something better to do.
Currently, I am less than happy about our current posting. I am trying to remind myself we are only a month into it, and perhaps 6 months or a year down the road these will all be distant memories. Yes, Mom and Dad, I remember I didn't want to go to Germany and ended up loving it. No it is not the same. I am three times as old now. (3 times!?!?) I am old and cranky. I get fussed over little things and let other bigger things go. Why? You got me. Just my make up I guess. NO, I am NOT wearing make up.
These days are long. It is gray. It is windy. And supposedly this country is pretty old or something, so I don't think anyone is going to be changing to suit me. Which means, I leave it to all of you. You must all log on to a travel site right now and book flights over here. (Please confer with each other first, so as to not all arrive at once. Thanks) Don't worry about work or school or previous commitments; I'll write you a note.
Done yet? Alright then, see you soon. I'll leave off with this. During our golf outing yesterday, the guys starting having a "who would you like to have a dinner party with?" game, which turned into a "who would you like to have a pint with?" and so on. Please leave yours on the comments section, along with your dates of arrival and departure.
Oh, and the title? The "stuff" including our bed, should be here tomorrow. See how I tied it all together?
Currently, I am less than happy about our current posting. I am trying to remind myself we are only a month into it, and perhaps 6 months or a year down the road these will all be distant memories. Yes, Mom and Dad, I remember I didn't want to go to Germany and ended up loving it. No it is not the same. I am three times as old now. (3 times!?!?) I am old and cranky. I get fussed over little things and let other bigger things go. Why? You got me. Just my make up I guess. NO, I am NOT wearing make up.
These days are long. It is gray. It is windy. And supposedly this country is pretty old or something, so I don't think anyone is going to be changing to suit me. Which means, I leave it to all of you. You must all log on to a travel site right now and book flights over here. (Please confer with each other first, so as to not all arrive at once. Thanks) Don't worry about work or school or previous commitments; I'll write you a note.
Done yet? Alright then, see you soon. I'll leave off with this. During our golf outing yesterday, the guys starting having a "who would you like to have a dinner party with?" game, which turned into a "who would you like to have a pint with?" and so on. Please leave yours on the comments section, along with your dates of arrival and departure.
Oh, and the title? The "stuff" including our bed, should be here tomorrow. See how I tied it all together?
Some random house pics for those who were unable to view the ones from this summer.
Through the Master, looking over the valley
Exposed Brick wall w/ fireplace
From the backyard
Range has 8 burners, been using them quite a bit
The "backyard"/Stour Valley from Master window
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