Goodbye
Goodbye to the cold and rainy and wet
Goodbye to all the new friends we've met
Goodbye to the little things,
like washers, fridges, and roads with rings
Goodbye to right hand drive
I'm going back to the other side
Goodbye to all the history; the churches, the castles
I'll think of you instead of the hassles
Goodbye my Monday morning crew
I hate to leave you to just two
Goodbye to the Busy Bee ladies
Thank you for loving my babies!
And Mary gets an extra special thank you,
without you, I'm not sure what we'd do!
Goodbye to my train driving mate,
the next beer and round will have to wait
Goodbye my local landscaping lager lout
Next time we meet, you'll be drinking stout!
Goodbye to the Golf Society guys,
you who shoot low and score so high
Goodbye to all the people with all their charm
Goodbye beloved Thatcher's Arms
Goodbye to the landlord who made me feel at home
I can't thank you enough for the kindness shown
Goodbye is not how I feel, in the end
So I'll choose to say, till we meet again.
Thank you all so very much!!
Chris
Monday, November 8, 2010
Friday, August 27, 2010
A summary
Well, here it is. Rian's last day. Yesterday did not go so well. She was obviously upset at saying goodbyes, and consequently didn't say very many. I hope it doesn't make her too sad in the long run; it's a hard lesson she will learn later in life: say your goodbyes, and express your affection when you have the opportunity. All in all, she wasn't bad, just a bit overwhelmed.
On the way from school to her special dinner she got very quiet. I asked if she was ok, and she said,
"I am just sad for growing up."
*choke back tears*
"Well, honey, Daddy is a little sad too, but we all have to grow up. And just think of all the super cool things you get to do when you are older; like drive, go to college, get married..."
"NO! You just get soap in your eyes and get big sore bones!"
*Ouch* How do you argue that though? I mean, it felt like I had soap in my eyes at that moment, and I was still trying to drive. I can only imagine the second part of her declaration had to do with a discussion regarding growing and how it sometimes hurts, but that was months ago. I guess another reminder of be careful what you say.
Next week, Rian gets a break and Daddy gets Rian and Bay at home. Hope the weather is nice or it could be a long one. Then, school starts up and we move on...and wait for calls from the Headmaster.
I would like to post a poem, written by one of Rian's wonderful teachers, a super lady who is always full of energy and joy and really keeps the kids going. No idea how she does it, but she is tremendous. Thank you KJW!
We'll Miss YouThe time has come to say goodbye,
We'll try so hard not to cry,
We'll miss your funny little ways,
And all our fun and crazy days.
Getting messy, paint and glue,
Sticking, colouring and collage too.
Making friends, time together,
Memories that will last forever.
We've watched you grow, and come so far,
You'll always be a shining star.
Learning together each new day,
A brand new skill that will always stay.
Summer, Autumn, Winter and Spring,
A brand new season, what will it bring?
Time outside, rain and sun,
So much fun for everyone.
Riding bikes, climbing and sliding,
Running, jumping or a game of hiding.
So now we have to be apart,
But you'll always be inside our heart.
Everyone will miss you so,
And always remember wherever you go,
That you are special and quite unique,
In the way you move and the words you speak.
A last goodbye and last squeeze,
Never ever forget us please.
Poem by Katie Whitnell
Thanks so much to all the Busy Bees Staff, especially Emma, Katie, & Carly and the others who fill in at Starburst since this is about Rian. Trusting someone with your children is not always easy, but you ALL do an amazing job, and we "transplants" are lucky to have found you!
Thursday, August 26, 2010
A quickie
Well, due to the way things work here, I have one less year of having a "little girl." Rian graduates from Pre-school today and starts Reception, a.k.a. kindergarten on the 6th. I am torn. She is a smart girl and I have no doubts mentally she is ready, but if you've met her, you prolly know she is a handful, and I am not sure they are ready for a school takeover. I am concerned for her attitude and stubborn ways and sarcastic mouth. Granted, she comes by those things honestly as mine and Lace's child, but it isn't a great combo for a 4 year old starting school sooner than we thought she would.
Ah well, we shall see. Keep her in your thoughts and prayers, and more importantly, keep myself and Lace there as well. Kid #2 Pre-school graduation here I come! Ugh...am I really old enough to have been to two kids PS graduations??
Ah well, we shall see. Keep her in your thoughts and prayers, and more importantly, keep myself and Lace there as well. Kid #2 Pre-school graduation here I come! Ugh...am I really old enough to have been to two kids PS graduations??
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
1 year down
While I sit here exhausted, trying to arrange all my thoughts of the last couple weeks back home and the last year as a whole, one thing is for certain--I am blessed. Now that doesn't mean I am always happy, of course it doesn't, that is just ridiculous. It also doesn't mean that I wouldn't change anything. Nonetheless, I am overwhelmed at just how lucky I am sometimes.
First off let me start by saying a giant thank you to all of my friends and family back home that made for a very special 3 week vacation. It was much needed and much appreciated. We crammed a lot into the first two weeks as a family and I just about killed myself the last week running all over. Wouldn't have changed it though, too much good stuff is good sometimes.
OK, so a quick rundown. Golf for me the day after I got back probably wasn't a good idea and my scores showed that. No harm done. Sunday school was great, getting to catch up with good friends, and having several groups invite us over was wonderful as well. Thank you Evans and Sheehys, and Gunnemans thank you for stopping also. Racquetball Monday was an experience. Fun to be back out there, not so fun to stink it up so bad. Dentist Tuesday resulted in everyone having good news except Rian, who is back to having Mom and Dad brush her teeth. Yikes, kid! Wednesday, my folks showed up and took us for some Mexican (oh how I missed you so!)...(parents and the food) after more racquetball. Friday morning, Dad and I did something we hadn't done in ages. Single digit age for me I think. We went fishing with my neighbors, Matt and Paul, thanks to both for the invite and Paul for the boat. What a fun time. Cigars, couple cold beverages, and we all caught--winning combos. Poker that night--also rusty, and shopping the next day. Church again Sunday, cavity filled for Rian & racquetball on Monday, followed by a movie then dinner, and saying goodbye to my parents. Kelsie had a positive report on Tuesday from her neuro, though we aren't off medicine and seizures are still present, she was pleased with K's progress, and said there were FEWER seizures. Thank God. Golfed again Wednesday night with better results and Lace helped her friend set up her classroom for school. Thursday was more cavities and Friday I golfed with my brother in law and then we had our farewell dinner with Leasea's sister and family. I said goodbye to Baylie that night for a week, and Saturday after breakfast with the Carlton family, I said goodbye to the other three as they got on the plane, England bound. I saw a movie and tried to take it easy that night, I was off to Tunica at 5 am on Sunday...
...Pre-dawn, Matt and I are picking up Tate and Eastbound. Had to be there in time for a tourney, which I finished one off the money in, and then had a ridiculous, Paula Dean buffet. Bad idea, as we all over-ate. Good idea because it was so dang good. Took some seriously rough beats at the poker table that night and I was down in a hole to start day 2, but golf was coming. Monday we played 27 holes of golf, I shot 48 on the front, 48 on the back, and 48 on the bonus 9. Nothing brilliant, but I beat Matt, and I guess you could say I showed consistency. A quick hustle to the hotel for three showers and back off for another tournament which I made final table, but no cash, and Matt chopped the pot for a win--congrats Matt! I hit big again and again on 3 card and was out of my hole and up a bit after day 2. Came back on Tuesday, relaxed, got laundry started and finished on Wednesday between errands. Was pretty well squared away and ready for my flight to Chicago on Thursday to met my cousin Gary and his roommate Daryl for some fun and a ballgame. Thursday was the fun, bouncing around downtown and having Gino's East pizza, before heading back to condo to sleep and get ready for the ballgame Friday. Hit some places in Wrigleyville before the game, which the Cubs came from behind to lead before showing off their patented come-from-ahead-loss skills. Awesome. Couple more places to show D and then I was off to the airport. Got back to AR at midnight, got home, showered, slept, woke, finished packing and was loaded up for the airport 10 hours later. Ugh. 16+6 hours later I was in Mt Bures hugging all my girls.
So, what does all that do? It leads me to this. I love home, I miss home, but it was nice to come back here, because this is where my family is. As fun as that last week was, I had to stay that busy so I wouldn't be lonely. There are many issues when you are living two places. You are always town between where you are and where you aren't. Who you're with and who isn't around. What things were like, and how they are. That isn't a bad thing, and I hope I am learning how to cope better. I have met some great people here who are becoming friends I hope to have for many years. I have wonderful, tolerant, helpful friends back home, that while missing them makes it hard to be here, there prayers and support and help, makes it possible to be here. I think it is probably like comparing girlfriends; better left undone, just look to each new experience with a fresh and positive understanding. And I am trying.
First off let me start by saying a giant thank you to all of my friends and family back home that made for a very special 3 week vacation. It was much needed and much appreciated. We crammed a lot into the first two weeks as a family and I just about killed myself the last week running all over. Wouldn't have changed it though, too much good stuff is good sometimes.
OK, so a quick rundown. Golf for me the day after I got back probably wasn't a good idea and my scores showed that. No harm done. Sunday school was great, getting to catch up with good friends, and having several groups invite us over was wonderful as well. Thank you Evans and Sheehys, and Gunnemans thank you for stopping also. Racquetball Monday was an experience. Fun to be back out there, not so fun to stink it up so bad. Dentist Tuesday resulted in everyone having good news except Rian, who is back to having Mom and Dad brush her teeth. Yikes, kid! Wednesday, my folks showed up and took us for some Mexican (oh how I missed you so!)...(parents and the food) after more racquetball. Friday morning, Dad and I did something we hadn't done in ages. Single digit age for me I think. We went fishing with my neighbors, Matt and Paul, thanks to both for the invite and Paul for the boat. What a fun time. Cigars, couple cold beverages, and we all caught--winning combos. Poker that night--also rusty, and shopping the next day. Church again Sunday, cavity filled for Rian & racquetball on Monday, followed by a movie then dinner, and saying goodbye to my parents. Kelsie had a positive report on Tuesday from her neuro, though we aren't off medicine and seizures are still present, she was pleased with K's progress, and said there were FEWER seizures. Thank God. Golfed again Wednesday night with better results and Lace helped her friend set up her classroom for school. Thursday was more cavities and Friday I golfed with my brother in law and then we had our farewell dinner with Leasea's sister and family. I said goodbye to Baylie that night for a week, and Saturday after breakfast with the Carlton family, I said goodbye to the other three as they got on the plane, England bound. I saw a movie and tried to take it easy that night, I was off to Tunica at 5 am on Sunday...
...Pre-dawn, Matt and I are picking up Tate and Eastbound. Had to be there in time for a tourney, which I finished one off the money in, and then had a ridiculous, Paula Dean buffet. Bad idea, as we all over-ate. Good idea because it was so dang good. Took some seriously rough beats at the poker table that night and I was down in a hole to start day 2, but golf was coming. Monday we played 27 holes of golf, I shot 48 on the front, 48 on the back, and 48 on the bonus 9. Nothing brilliant, but I beat Matt, and I guess you could say I showed consistency. A quick hustle to the hotel for three showers and back off for another tournament which I made final table, but no cash, and Matt chopped the pot for a win--congrats Matt! I hit big again and again on 3 card and was out of my hole and up a bit after day 2. Came back on Tuesday, relaxed, got laundry started and finished on Wednesday between errands. Was pretty well squared away and ready for my flight to Chicago on Thursday to met my cousin Gary and his roommate Daryl for some fun and a ballgame. Thursday was the fun, bouncing around downtown and having Gino's East pizza, before heading back to condo to sleep and get ready for the ballgame Friday. Hit some places in Wrigleyville before the game, which the Cubs came from behind to lead before showing off their patented come-from-ahead-loss skills. Awesome. Couple more places to show D and then I was off to the airport. Got back to AR at midnight, got home, showered, slept, woke, finished packing and was loaded up for the airport 10 hours later. Ugh. 16+6 hours later I was in Mt Bures hugging all my girls.
So, what does all that do? It leads me to this. I love home, I miss home, but it was nice to come back here, because this is where my family is. As fun as that last week was, I had to stay that busy so I wouldn't be lonely. There are many issues when you are living two places. You are always town between where you are and where you aren't. Who you're with and who isn't around. What things were like, and how they are. That isn't a bad thing, and I hope I am learning how to cope better. I have met some great people here who are becoming friends I hope to have for many years. I have wonderful, tolerant, helpful friends back home, that while missing them makes it hard to be here, there prayers and support and help, makes it possible to be here. I think it is probably like comparing girlfriends; better left undone, just look to each new experience with a fresh and positive understanding. And I am trying.
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
A short PSA
When "kickin it old school" remember:
The memories are always going to win out over trying to recreate the memories. The saying you can't go back, is really deeper than some Southern wit.
I had a PB&J this week. First time in awhile. This from a guy who will try PB on anything. Did it taste anything remotely like Gramma used to make when I threw her the "deuce" sign to answer what I wanted for lunch? Ahh, no. Same type of bread, same type of PB, jelly, the works. No dice. Maybe it was a magical, pre night-games at Wrigley period where things tasted better. (It was always two PB&J's, a run around outside, and back inside for a 1:20 first pitch. Marvelous.) But the generations previous have the same things, don't they? Some time, some place, something was better than they will ever experience it again. And I don't mean the cliched, "I walked uphill 5 miles both ways" stuff, I mean real memories. The things you can still feel, or touch or taste.
And I also mean that both ways. Good and bad. The bad memories are just as important, if not more so, than the good ones. Sure, we treasure the good ones, but the bad ones--if we're smart enough--we learn from, grow from. I honestly believe that this life would be boring if we only had highs. I mean, can you imagine a roller-coaster with just highs? Not so much a coaster as an airport moving walkway. I don't relish my bad memories, but I do hold them dear. I have to.
I could go on and on, I've had a million of these moments in the last 6+ years that Lace and I have been together. This one just stuck out. Maybe it was the time between "sammiches" or maybe it was looking forward to going home in a month, who knows? Anyhow, it cured what ailed me as far as writer's block...at least for the time being.
I guess as parents, the best we can hope for is to give our kids as many of the good, help ease the bad and teach them that they all need to move you forward. Or, to bring it full circle, hopefully, one day, Baylie's PB&J making skills won't compare to my skills.
The memories are always going to win out over trying to recreate the memories. The saying you can't go back, is really deeper than some Southern wit.
I had a PB&J this week. First time in awhile. This from a guy who will try PB on anything. Did it taste anything remotely like Gramma used to make when I threw her the "deuce" sign to answer what I wanted for lunch? Ahh, no. Same type of bread, same type of PB, jelly, the works. No dice. Maybe it was a magical, pre night-games at Wrigley period where things tasted better. (It was always two PB&J's, a run around outside, and back inside for a 1:20 first pitch. Marvelous.) But the generations previous have the same things, don't they? Some time, some place, something was better than they will ever experience it again. And I don't mean the cliched, "I walked uphill 5 miles both ways" stuff, I mean real memories. The things you can still feel, or touch or taste.
And I also mean that both ways. Good and bad. The bad memories are just as important, if not more so, than the good ones. Sure, we treasure the good ones, but the bad ones--if we're smart enough--we learn from, grow from. I honestly believe that this life would be boring if we only had highs. I mean, can you imagine a roller-coaster with just highs? Not so much a coaster as an airport moving walkway. I don't relish my bad memories, but I do hold them dear. I have to.
I could go on and on, I've had a million of these moments in the last 6+ years that Lace and I have been together. This one just stuck out. Maybe it was the time between "sammiches" or maybe it was looking forward to going home in a month, who knows? Anyhow, it cured what ailed me as far as writer's block...at least for the time being.
I guess as parents, the best we can hope for is to give our kids as many of the good, help ease the bad and teach them that they all need to move you forward. Or, to bring it full circle, hopefully, one day, Baylie's PB&J making skills won't compare to my skills.
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Well this is a mess/New list
Ok, I got on here with full intention of writing about how screwed up San Francisco and Arizona are right now, but I realize I am on the losing side...strangely enough, that happens to be on the side of the law. How in the heck can it be wrong to ask someone to be a citizen to get benefits, wages and to VOTE? It is the law, it is absolutely right, and if you are illegal, leave or get legal. Or we can start paying you in pesos. How would you like 8 pesos and hour vs $8? Right. So, thats all on that, because I have a feeling I could rant a thesis length paper right now about the idiot protestors.
So, new list. Favorite rock musicians. Solo. There are going to be many more on here, but that is because there are so many greats, and, frankly its my list, so I don't even know why I have to justify.
Again, in no particular order.
Bruce Springsteen - Ok, you may argue he is in a band if you like, but it is Bruce Springsteen & ... So individual it is in my book. The essential voice of the working man. A blue collar poet. Sure, sometimes it seems as if he is reading from a diary or a newspaper, but the way he turns the phrase into something more is outstanding. And sure, his voice is not great, but if it were, I don't think he would be as good. Teh grittiness makes it. Concerts are legendary. Super-gluing your fingers to keep playing even after 3 hours on stage? And he can certainly play. And The E Street band is pretty dang good too.
Billy Joel - The Piano Man. Just don't request that at a piano bar. Amateur. I love his stories. Its like country music set to piano and rock. A lyricist to the core who can tinkle the ivories with the best of them. Diverse too, with many clasical pieces under his belt and lending his songs and expertise to Broadway as well. A good voice, with great range, his albums run the gamut and give you a listening experience that doesn't all sound the same.
Meatloaf - Ok, so he mostly acts now, but he has arguably the best concept album ever with Bat Out of Hell. And he can belt, really belt. Again, a lyric storyteller, with epic length songs. Pretty sure 'the best of' could get you through a regular workweek commute. Its more quality than quantity here, which to me, is unfortunate, but he does have a new album out, so there is hope.
Before I continue, yes, I see the theme. I like stories. I like lyrics. Understood.
Elton John - Very similar to Joel, except more flamboyant x 10. Great songs, and part of one of the best writing teams of all time with Bernie Taupin, and now very prolific on soundtracks and Broadway with Tim Rice. Diverse, eccentric, and interesting, his 35 years of albums are all over the map, and mostly good. Like the US, minus Ohio.
David Bowie - Another of the top 5 concept albums of all time, in my opinion with Ziggy Stardust. Ecclectic, mega talented, and smart, he has an outstanding voice, and ideas a plenty. One of those artists I really get excited about when the radio gets its head out of its rear end and puts some Ziggy on. An actor as well, he has fallen away from the music scene a bit, but has enough credibility to pull off any move he wants to.
Prince - Some may argue he is R & B, but I say rock. What other R & B act has that kind of music, especially the guitar? And, sadly, Prince gets overlooked too often because he doesn't neatly fit into a category. He can certainly handle himself with the instruments, and musically brilliant. One of the best soundtracks from one of the worst movies with Purple Rain. Vocal range to spare, all in a pocket sized, in your face, daring dude. Sure he is strange, but I imagine thats where the inspirations come from, so go for it man.
Michael Jackson - Off his rocker weird. Ok. No argument. But the best performer in my lifetime easily and Elvis is probably his only rival of all time. Singer, writer, musician, dancer, & actor and all done fairly successfully. Controversial for many reasons, even before the allegations of the 90s, he seemed to be a little boy genius trapped in man's body. Be hard to say what he would have been like with a normal family, but his results speak for themselves.
So this is my list. Apologies to Van Morrison (nothing in my lifetime too significant) and Bob Dylan (everyone's go to pick, but I prefer his lyrics to his music) and Elvis (what have you done lately, huh?) and too many others to name. Feel free to comment. Or not. Suggest a list if you want.
So, new list. Favorite rock musicians. Solo. There are going to be many more on here, but that is because there are so many greats, and, frankly its my list, so I don't even know why I have to justify.
Again, in no particular order.
Bruce Springsteen - Ok, you may argue he is in a band if you like, but it is Bruce Springsteen & ... So individual it is in my book. The essential voice of the working man. A blue collar poet. Sure, sometimes it seems as if he is reading from a diary or a newspaper, but the way he turns the phrase into something more is outstanding. And sure, his voice is not great, but if it were, I don't think he would be as good. Teh grittiness makes it. Concerts are legendary. Super-gluing your fingers to keep playing even after 3 hours on stage? And he can certainly play. And The E Street band is pretty dang good too.
Billy Joel - The Piano Man. Just don't request that at a piano bar. Amateur. I love his stories. Its like country music set to piano and rock. A lyricist to the core who can tinkle the ivories with the best of them. Diverse too, with many clasical pieces under his belt and lending his songs and expertise to Broadway as well. A good voice, with great range, his albums run the gamut and give you a listening experience that doesn't all sound the same.
Meatloaf - Ok, so he mostly acts now, but he has arguably the best concept album ever with Bat Out of Hell. And he can belt, really belt. Again, a lyric storyteller, with epic length songs. Pretty sure 'the best of' could get you through a regular workweek commute. Its more quality than quantity here, which to me, is unfortunate, but he does have a new album out, so there is hope.
Before I continue, yes, I see the theme. I like stories. I like lyrics. Understood.
Elton John - Very similar to Joel, except more flamboyant x 10. Great songs, and part of one of the best writing teams of all time with Bernie Taupin, and now very prolific on soundtracks and Broadway with Tim Rice. Diverse, eccentric, and interesting, his 35 years of albums are all over the map, and mostly good. Like the US, minus Ohio.
David Bowie - Another of the top 5 concept albums of all time, in my opinion with Ziggy Stardust. Ecclectic, mega talented, and smart, he has an outstanding voice, and ideas a plenty. One of those artists I really get excited about when the radio gets its head out of its rear end and puts some Ziggy on. An actor as well, he has fallen away from the music scene a bit, but has enough credibility to pull off any move he wants to.
Prince - Some may argue he is R & B, but I say rock. What other R & B act has that kind of music, especially the guitar? And, sadly, Prince gets overlooked too often because he doesn't neatly fit into a category. He can certainly handle himself with the instruments, and musically brilliant. One of the best soundtracks from one of the worst movies with Purple Rain. Vocal range to spare, all in a pocket sized, in your face, daring dude. Sure he is strange, but I imagine thats where the inspirations come from, so go for it man.
Michael Jackson - Off his rocker weird. Ok. No argument. But the best performer in my lifetime easily and Elvis is probably his only rival of all time. Singer, writer, musician, dancer, & actor and all done fairly successfully. Controversial for many reasons, even before the allegations of the 90s, he seemed to be a little boy genius trapped in man's body. Be hard to say what he would have been like with a normal family, but his results speak for themselves.
So this is my list. Apologies to Van Morrison (nothing in my lifetime too significant) and Bob Dylan (everyone's go to pick, but I prefer his lyrics to his music) and Elvis (what have you done lately, huh?) and too many others to name. Feel free to comment. Or not. Suggest a list if you want.
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Rian-isms
Here is a re-post from Facebook of all the Rian-isms from the first 9 months or so of England life. In chronological order as well, so for your viewing/reading enjoyment, I present Rian. And remember, laughter is the best medicine!
"Ohhh Dad this (vanilla) ice cream tastes like 3 million strawberries." Ummm, ok, Rian
2 new Rian gems while coloring today:
"I colored outside the lines to remind me not to, it's not an accident." &
"When I grow up to be a mommy, I'll play in a poker tournament with you, I will."
"Daddy, you're so nice, I just wanna send you to Heaven." Thanks, Rian, I don't know what to say.
Rian just started screaming at the top of her lungs in the back seat, I asked her what she was doing and the response was, "I'm not screaming, I'm singing like Fiona and trying to explode that bird over there." Might be time to stop watching Shrek
Me: "Rian, Daddy spent all day cleaning, why are you tearing stuff up?"
Rian, with a grin even: "it's just what I do, Dad."
Rian, upon seeing my new tattoo for the first time. "WHY YOU HAVE MY NAME?? YOU 'POSED TO HAVE YOUR NAME, NOT MINE!!" the put her face down in her arms, and huffed and puffed and pouted
While walking through Sherwood Forest, both girls with walking sticks:
Rian: "I have a big stick."
Baylie: "Rian, they are basically the same size."
Rian: "Well, potentially mine is bigger."
Potentially, really? Sure you're three?
Rian: "Here Dad, rub my new head bump (from meeting a door @school)"
Me: "No honey, Daddy doesn't want to hurt you"
Rian: "Then why do you spank me, huh?"
And walks away. I feel like I've been set up
Rian wailing in church because she only got a blessing and "nothing in her hand and no drinks!" (cracker and wine for Communion)
What an age we live in.
Me: "Rian, apologize to Kels." (she accidentally knocked her over)
Rian (walking away): "I will sent her a text message"
Latest Rian Red-bottom Retort:
Me: "Rian get your clothes on."
Rian: "I not like those pants!"
Me: "You can't always wear dresses, I think those are pretty."
Rian: "You wear them Daddy"
Me: "Rian, go to your room and sit in bed!"
Rian: "I sending me to bed first, not you!"
Upon hearing coughing from the bathroom; Me: "Don't drink your bath water Rian!" Rian "I not! I choking on it!"
Me: "Don't drink your bath water Rian!"
Rian: "I not! I choking on it!"
Rian's bones are bigger than last night, she has to grow up to go to work. Her words, not mine obviously.
Rian, in the bathtub with Kelsie: "Arggh, Kelsie. You're making me cross. Ahh its ok, even though you have a bad 'attitune,' I still love you."
"My body ate all of my ‘sunscream’ up cuz it wants me to get a tan."
Sigh, whatever, Rian.
And finally a prayer from the beginning of our journey over here:
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."
"Ohhh Dad this (vanilla) ice cream tastes like 3 million strawberries." Ummm, ok, Rian
2 new Rian gems while coloring today:
"I colored outside the lines to remind me not to, it's not an accident." &
"When I grow up to be a mommy, I'll play in a poker tournament with you, I will."
"Daddy, you're so nice, I just wanna send you to Heaven." Thanks, Rian, I don't know what to say.
Rian just started screaming at the top of her lungs in the back seat, I asked her what she was doing and the response was, "I'm not screaming, I'm singing like Fiona and trying to explode that bird over there." Might be time to stop watching Shrek
Me: "Rian, Daddy spent all day cleaning, why are you tearing stuff up?"
Rian, with a grin even: "it's just what I do, Dad."
Rian, upon seeing my new tattoo for the first time. "WHY YOU HAVE MY NAME?? YOU 'POSED TO HAVE YOUR NAME, NOT MINE!!" the put her face down in her arms, and huffed and puffed and pouted
While walking through Sherwood Forest, both girls with walking sticks:
Rian: "I have a big stick."
Baylie: "Rian, they are basically the same size."
Rian: "Well, potentially mine is bigger."
Potentially, really? Sure you're three?
Rian: "Here Dad, rub my new head bump (from meeting a door @school)"
Me: "No honey, Daddy doesn't want to hurt you"
Rian: "Then why do you spank me, huh?"
And walks away. I feel like I've been set up
Rian wailing in church because she only got a blessing and "nothing in her hand and no drinks!" (cracker and wine for Communion)
What an age we live in.
Me: "Rian, apologize to Kels." (she accidentally knocked her over)
Rian (walking away): "I will sent her a text message"
Latest Rian Red-bottom Retort:
Me: "Rian get your clothes on."
Rian: "I not like those pants!"
Me: "You can't always wear dresses, I think those are pretty."
Rian: "You wear them Daddy"
Me: "Rian, go to your room and sit in bed!"
Rian: "I sending me to bed first, not you!"
Upon hearing coughing from the bathroom; Me: "Don't drink your bath water Rian!" Rian "I not! I choking on it!"
Me: "Don't drink your bath water Rian!"
Rian: "I not! I choking on it!"
Rian's bones are bigger than last night, she has to grow up to go to work. Her words, not mine obviously.
Rian, in the bathtub with Kelsie: "Arggh, Kelsie. You're making me cross. Ahh its ok, even though you have a bad 'attitune,' I still love you."
"My body ate all of my ‘sunscream’ up cuz it wants me to get a tan."
Sigh, whatever, Rian.
And finally a prayer from the beginning of our journey over here:
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."
Monday, April 19, 2010
random musings on a radio show line
I heard it said the other day, "kids don't understand class systems." I think, unfortunately, that this is very outdated thinking. They may not understand all the principles of socio-economics, but they get the basics. And they definitely know what they are and where they fit in. Or at least where they want to and don't. Or vice-versa. And sadly, they realize it now more than ever.
Even when I was a kid, we had them and us. Generations before had it, generations to come will have it. For me as a kid in KY, it was BMX vs. 10 speed. We all rode bikes everywhere, and you were one or the other. Most of us NCO kids, with stay at home Moms, had BMX style, single speed bikes. Some Officers kids who would come to our housing area, or kids whose Mom's worked, got the upgraded 10 speed deal. Them, us. We told ourselves, that although ours were PX specials, basic bikes, they were cooler, because we could do tricks and such. Also, they could be dumped into feilds pretty easily while the 10 speed kids were looking for hard enough ground to set their kick stands.
In Germany it became athletes vs non-athletes for me. I was, others weren't. Their wasn't a whole lot of crossover. It had nothing as such to do with economics, but if you were, you became popular, if you weren't, you were background. It wasn't right, and I recall having non-athletic friends, but, truth be told, they were mostly teammates.
Then came TX. I never knew until we moved off base, to TX, that we were "poor." Or so I was told. Granted, I had a stay at home mom and an NCO father who made less serving his country than the ambulance chasers who walked into his ERs scrounging, but I always had what I needed. And wanted for that matter. I honestly can't recall wanting something as a kid and being told no. I know I was though. So whatever it was, my parents were right, it wasn't all that important. And I think, on average, that I "wanted" less than most kids. Some G.I. Joes, some Transformers, baseball cards, and sports equipment. All supplied, done. But in TX, we were in the real world, not on post. So there was a greater diversity in household income levels. And I was, all of a sudden, "poor." Didn't stop me from having a good time. I was still an athlete. Still had lots of friends, friends I maintain to this day. I wouldn't say I was the most popular by far, but I got by. Still made good grades--which I managed to make a moot point by stupid collegiate behavior--and still got scholarship offers.
Along came college ,and I was just a number. No one outside my circle cared enough to make fun of me, pick on me, or anything else. It was a very segregated lifestyle. As someone who grew up interacting with all races on the playing fields and courts, it became extremly apparent to me that college was divided. I was no longer an athlete. As mentioned above, I was stupid enough to waste my intelligence at the start of school. I was a fraternity guy, I was a GDI (blank, blank, Independant.) That was more because I couldn't afford it than anything else. Yet again, I made friends. Had Megan and Leasea not come along, Tim and I may still be sitting on the couch playing NCAA and Tiger Woods, drinking beer. (Dang you ladies!) My friends spanned all sorts of backgrounds, and lifestyles. And shockingly, it broadened my horizons. Go figure.
I think not being one thing really helped me be a lot more. By no longer fitting into a box, I created a circle. A circle of friends and loved ones that I can rely on and go to. Lean on and cry to. Hang out with and fight and make up. While I may not keep up as well as I should sometimes, I can pick right up where I left off with most of them, and I know I have plenty I could go to if I really needed something. And still, they range all different types, lifestyles, backgrounds, income levels, etc. I don't really have a point I guess. Just musings. Ramblings on a line mentioned on a radio show.
I write this as a fortunate one. Someone who is blessed with a wonderful family and friends, a wife with a great job that provides for us and so much more. Someone who has been more places and seen more things than I ever thought I would get to. Who gets to take vacations. Who owns a home, has insurance. Whose daughter has survived serious trauma. Food in my belly. Who is able to contribute to causes. Go to church where, when, and if I want to. Yep. I am a lucky one.
Even when I was a kid, we had them and us. Generations before had it, generations to come will have it. For me as a kid in KY, it was BMX vs. 10 speed. We all rode bikes everywhere, and you were one or the other. Most of us NCO kids, with stay at home Moms, had BMX style, single speed bikes. Some Officers kids who would come to our housing area, or kids whose Mom's worked, got the upgraded 10 speed deal. Them, us. We told ourselves, that although ours were PX specials, basic bikes, they were cooler, because we could do tricks and such. Also, they could be dumped into feilds pretty easily while the 10 speed kids were looking for hard enough ground to set their kick stands.
In Germany it became athletes vs non-athletes for me. I was, others weren't. Their wasn't a whole lot of crossover. It had nothing as such to do with economics, but if you were, you became popular, if you weren't, you were background. It wasn't right, and I recall having non-athletic friends, but, truth be told, they were mostly teammates.
Then came TX. I never knew until we moved off base, to TX, that we were "poor." Or so I was told. Granted, I had a stay at home mom and an NCO father who made less serving his country than the ambulance chasers who walked into his ERs scrounging, but I always had what I needed. And wanted for that matter. I honestly can't recall wanting something as a kid and being told no. I know I was though. So whatever it was, my parents were right, it wasn't all that important. And I think, on average, that I "wanted" less than most kids. Some G.I. Joes, some Transformers, baseball cards, and sports equipment. All supplied, done. But in TX, we were in the real world, not on post. So there was a greater diversity in household income levels. And I was, all of a sudden, "poor." Didn't stop me from having a good time. I was still an athlete. Still had lots of friends, friends I maintain to this day. I wouldn't say I was the most popular by far, but I got by. Still made good grades--which I managed to make a moot point by stupid collegiate behavior--and still got scholarship offers.
Along came college ,and I was just a number. No one outside my circle cared enough to make fun of me, pick on me, or anything else. It was a very segregated lifestyle. As someone who grew up interacting with all races on the playing fields and courts, it became extremly apparent to me that college was divided. I was no longer an athlete. As mentioned above, I was stupid enough to waste my intelligence at the start of school. I was a fraternity guy, I was a GDI (blank, blank, Independant.) That was more because I couldn't afford it than anything else. Yet again, I made friends. Had Megan and Leasea not come along, Tim and I may still be sitting on the couch playing NCAA and Tiger Woods, drinking beer. (Dang you ladies!) My friends spanned all sorts of backgrounds, and lifestyles. And shockingly, it broadened my horizons. Go figure.
I think not being one thing really helped me be a lot more. By no longer fitting into a box, I created a circle. A circle of friends and loved ones that I can rely on and go to. Lean on and cry to. Hang out with and fight and make up. While I may not keep up as well as I should sometimes, I can pick right up where I left off with most of them, and I know I have plenty I could go to if I really needed something. And still, they range all different types, lifestyles, backgrounds, income levels, etc. I don't really have a point I guess. Just musings. Ramblings on a line mentioned on a radio show.
I write this as a fortunate one. Someone who is blessed with a wonderful family and friends, a wife with a great job that provides for us and so much more. Someone who has been more places and seen more things than I ever thought I would get to. Who gets to take vacations. Who owns a home, has insurance. Whose daughter has survived serious trauma. Food in my belly. Who is able to contribute to causes. Go to church where, when, and if I want to. Yep. I am a lucky one.
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Lists - Fiction
Lets go for a bit more artsy here. Well depending on your modd I suppose. I, like most people, enjoy a book that I can sort of shut down my brain on, suspend disbelief and have fun with. This list isn't for those books, so apologies to Lee Child, Vince Flynn, James Lee Burke, and so on.
Again in no order, here are some of my favorite novels.
On the Road - Jack Kerouac : This isn't one that appeals to all, but at the time I read it, (3rd year of college) it really set me on fire. I loved the stream of consciousness, the almost manic pace that Kerouac sets forth. It made me wish I was born 40 years earlier just so that I could hitch hike with safety. A really great English Prof helped out too, explaining all the back stories, and even having eat apple pie with ice cream. He probably would have been all for a hitch hiking weekend.
The Count of Monte Cristo - Alexandre Dumas : Flat out love this. Written, obviously in a much different time, so the wordiness can be a bit much at times, but nothing so bad as approaching Dickens or Hawthorne. Just a little bit of eveything a good story needs; love, action, revenge, humor, redemption, forgiveness. Could easily read all 1800 pages again.
Less than Zero - Bret Easton Ellis : With a thanks to Ben B. for this recommendation as well. This is much like a Cather in the Rye for a later generation. Not quite mine, but much closer. What literary critics saw in C.i.t.R., and I didn't, I saw in this. Very much a lost soul, Clay goes off the deep end with just about every vice, only to realize promise in life and start anew. (possibly, if you like Disney endings, book isn't clear) Good stuff.
A Long Way Down - Nicholas Hornby : If you haven't read any oh N.H.'s stuff, you're missing out. Very clever, witty and varied, he writes many characters with a depth not typically found. To be able in this book, to bounce 4 completely different characters back and forth and not lose any personality is quite impressive. Any of his books are great, so you could try High Fidelity, Fever Pitch, About a Boy, or Slam. I am currently on Juliet, Naked.
A Separate Peace - John Knowles : A story about friends and the subversive feelings between them during a difficult time in history. Two friends, very different, at a boarding school during the Second World War. Gene, returns 15 years after the events unfold and the story is his recollection of his times at the school with Phineus. Real quality and I think it still plays, even though it was written in the 50's about the 40's.
Ok, so there ya go. I am sure at the time I hit post, I will think of others, but...Oh well. This is a varied list, and encompasses, I hope, my varied taste. Enjoy, love to hear yours!
Again in no order, here are some of my favorite novels.
On the Road - Jack Kerouac : This isn't one that appeals to all, but at the time I read it, (3rd year of college) it really set me on fire. I loved the stream of consciousness, the almost manic pace that Kerouac sets forth. It made me wish I was born 40 years earlier just so that I could hitch hike with safety. A really great English Prof helped out too, explaining all the back stories, and even having eat apple pie with ice cream. He probably would have been all for a hitch hiking weekend.
The Count of Monte Cristo - Alexandre Dumas : Flat out love this. Written, obviously in a much different time, so the wordiness can be a bit much at times, but nothing so bad as approaching Dickens or Hawthorne. Just a little bit of eveything a good story needs; love, action, revenge, humor, redemption, forgiveness. Could easily read all 1800 pages again.
Less than Zero - Bret Easton Ellis : With a thanks to Ben B. for this recommendation as well. This is much like a Cather in the Rye for a later generation. Not quite mine, but much closer. What literary critics saw in C.i.t.R., and I didn't, I saw in this. Very much a lost soul, Clay goes off the deep end with just about every vice, only to realize promise in life and start anew. (possibly, if you like Disney endings, book isn't clear) Good stuff.
A Long Way Down - Nicholas Hornby : If you haven't read any oh N.H.'s stuff, you're missing out. Very clever, witty and varied, he writes many characters with a depth not typically found. To be able in this book, to bounce 4 completely different characters back and forth and not lose any personality is quite impressive. Any of his books are great, so you could try High Fidelity, Fever Pitch, About a Boy, or Slam. I am currently on Juliet, Naked.
A Separate Peace - John Knowles : A story about friends and the subversive feelings between them during a difficult time in history. Two friends, very different, at a boarding school during the Second World War. Gene, returns 15 years after the events unfold and the story is his recollection of his times at the school with Phineus. Real quality and I think it still plays, even though it was written in the 50's about the 40's.
Ok, so there ya go. I am sure at the time I hit post, I will think of others, but...Oh well. This is a varied list, and encompasses, I hope, my varied taste. Enjoy, love to hear yours!
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Lists - Bands
Kinda struggling with the concepts lately. So I am going to go VH1 on you guys and start doing lists. I need some help though. If you read this, either A. post your corresponding list and/or B. suggest a new list. Easy enough right? Ok, so lets get started.
My 5 favorite rock bands. NO, I didn't say the best, I said my favorite. In no real order.
Blue October http://blueoctoberfan.com/splash/index.php Started my journey with these guys at age 19, when they were playing to packed houses of 50 or so at Cafe on the Square in San Marcos. Their latest video? Clips from their worldwide tour and their last two albums have gone platinum. Amazingly heartfelt lyrics. Smart, witty, somber, disturbing; their albums run the full gamut. Musically amazing, rock with a fiddle--enough said. Didn't quite get in on the ground floor, but lets call it the 1st floor.Drawback? Can't listen to them with kids in the car, Justin speaks with colorful meatphors. Favorite track - Wow. Ummmm. Be easier to list the 5 or so I don't like. Try anything you can get your hands on if you can.
Counting Crows http://www.countingcrows.com/ Been a fan of these guys since Mr. Jones. Again, great lyrics. Very poetic. Solid musically as well. Drawback? Adam's voice can tend to the whiny side at times and I find it tough to do too many songs back to back. Favorite track - Round Here, Mrs. Potter's Lullaby, Omaha, Rain King, Anna Begins
Matchbox 20 http://www.matchboxtwenty.com/ Heard these guys in Austin, Freshman year of college at La Zona Rosa, right before the hits started coming. Super catchy, great rock voice on Rob, lyrics that makes sense and tell a story. Drawback? Rob Thomas was always better than the band ,and you knew at some point he was going to move on. Favorite track(s) - Entire first song from first note to last, Rest Stop, Bright Lights, Bed of Lies
Aerosmith http://www.aerosmith.com/ One of the top rock bands in history, I have a more personal reason for liking them; they are one of the first bands my Dad and I agreed on. One of the first presents I gave my him once I was on my own money-wise, were concert tickets for he and I. Was the first of 5 times. Drawback? Sort of one-dimensional. Can be good or bad, but you definitely know what you're gonna get. favorite track(s) - Janie's Got a Gun, Dream On, Amazing, Don't Wanna Miss a Thing
Journey http://www.journeymusic.com/ Okay, give me crap, I don't care. They are all about the rock balland, but I'll be danged if I have a problem with that. Been listening to them as long as I can remember and defending them to most of my generation for just as long. Steve Perry had some of the best pipes, period. They struggled with Augeri, but this new guy is amazing. Drawback? Again, kind of one-dimensional. Favorite track(s) - Lovin, Touchin', Squeezin', Don't Stop Believing, Open Arms, Anyway You Want It
Honorable mention:
DMB http://www.davematthewsband.com/ Some of the best music around. Drawback? Dave's voice at times, live show songs last 15 min each so each band member can have a solo. Favortie tracks - Warehouse (Live), Two Step, All Along the Watchtower (live)
Metallica http://www.metallica.com/ About as hard and fast and good as hard rock can be in my opinion. Drawback? Headaches from headbanging Favorite tracks - One, Sad but True, Enter Sandman, Seek and Destroy, Wherever I May Roam
Okay. So there is my first one. No idea at all how many I will do, I guess some of that depends on you. Enjoy!
My 5 favorite rock bands. NO, I didn't say the best, I said my favorite. In no real order.
Blue October http://blueoctoberfan.com/splash/index.php Started my journey with these guys at age 19, when they were playing to packed houses of 50 or so at Cafe on the Square in San Marcos. Their latest video? Clips from their worldwide tour and their last two albums have gone platinum. Amazingly heartfelt lyrics. Smart, witty, somber, disturbing; their albums run the full gamut. Musically amazing, rock with a fiddle--enough said. Didn't quite get in on the ground floor, but lets call it the 1st floor.Drawback? Can't listen to them with kids in the car, Justin speaks with colorful meatphors. Favorite track - Wow. Ummmm. Be easier to list the 5 or so I don't like. Try anything you can get your hands on if you can.
Counting Crows http://www.countingcrows.com/ Been a fan of these guys since Mr. Jones. Again, great lyrics. Very poetic. Solid musically as well. Drawback? Adam's voice can tend to the whiny side at times and I find it tough to do too many songs back to back. Favorite track - Round Here, Mrs. Potter's Lullaby, Omaha, Rain King, Anna Begins
Matchbox 20 http://www.matchboxtwenty.com/ Heard these guys in Austin, Freshman year of college at La Zona Rosa, right before the hits started coming. Super catchy, great rock voice on Rob, lyrics that makes sense and tell a story. Drawback? Rob Thomas was always better than the band ,and you knew at some point he was going to move on. Favorite track(s) - Entire first song from first note to last, Rest Stop, Bright Lights, Bed of Lies
Aerosmith http://www.aerosmith.com/ One of the top rock bands in history, I have a more personal reason for liking them; they are one of the first bands my Dad and I agreed on. One of the first presents I gave my him once I was on my own money-wise, were concert tickets for he and I. Was the first of 5 times. Drawback? Sort of one-dimensional. Can be good or bad, but you definitely know what you're gonna get. favorite track(s) - Janie's Got a Gun, Dream On, Amazing, Don't Wanna Miss a Thing
Journey http://www.journeymusic.com/ Okay, give me crap, I don't care. They are all about the rock balland, but I'll be danged if I have a problem with that. Been listening to them as long as I can remember and defending them to most of my generation for just as long. Steve Perry had some of the best pipes, period. They struggled with Augeri, but this new guy is amazing. Drawback? Again, kind of one-dimensional. Favorite track(s) - Lovin, Touchin', Squeezin', Don't Stop Believing, Open Arms, Anyway You Want It
Honorable mention:
DMB http://www.davematthewsband.com/ Some of the best music around. Drawback? Dave's voice at times, live show songs last 15 min each so each band member can have a solo. Favortie tracks - Warehouse (Live), Two Step, All Along the Watchtower (live)
Metallica http://www.metallica.com/ About as hard and fast and good as hard rock can be in my opinion. Drawback? Headaches from headbanging Favorite tracks - One, Sad but True, Enter Sandman, Seek and Destroy, Wherever I May Roam
Okay. So there is my first one. No idea at all how many I will do, I guess some of that depends on you. Enjoy!
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Something different
Ok. Something different for me. Most of you know that I used to write, I used to write a lot actually. Between time and family, I have not written until recently when I started this little blog venture. Well it apparently has inspired me to write what I like again as well. My first poem in years, with a bit of a twist. I tried to take more of a lyrical approach to it, which was tough considering I only have the music in my head and no talent to get it out. Anyhow, its in song form.
And I would like to share it. This is also quite strange for me, because it is a personal thing, and I mostly share my work with people who are close to me in 1-1 settings. Apart from college peices, which were assigned and therefore, not as personal. So here is the first rough draft. Still tweaking and tinkering with some words, phrases, cadence, but here it is. Those of you who have known me since mid-college days should recognize what this is.
So I envision, musically, that it would start slow, build to chorus, pick up second stanza, carry through to a slowing second chorus, with a slow-down third stanza, final chorus. Anyhow, I welcome critique as long as it is helpful. And you musical friends--Kelli, Shawn, Larry, Bob, Aaron, UD--feel free to submit music. ;-) Oh, and try not to be too harsh.
When it all began,
right from the start
felt just like a plan
from one to another heart
And time flies when
you're having fun
wish I'd know then
how quickly we'd be done
(Ch. ?)
Endings are hardly ever good
and rarely ever understood
There's only one letter
between bitter and better
Its over all the same
Our forever ended yesterday
Built that wall up brick by brick
Added a gate and a heavy lock
made sure those walls were extra thick
sat back, looked about, took stock
And time drags when
you're broken up inside
wish I'd know then
could've run away to hide
Endings are hardly ever good
and rarely ever understood
There's only one letter
between bitter and better
Its over all the same
My forever ended yesterday
Late night, busy bar, glasses clinking
A quick look, our eyes met, we shared a smile
And amongst the people drinking
We stood and talked for awhile
Long talks, long drives, long walks
brick after brick was scattered around
then came a gift in small box
and with a yes, the last brick came down
Beginnings are full of fun and desire
and require much more after the fire
with a heartfelt letter
you turned bitter to better
What a difference a decade made
My forever started yesterday
Our forever starts everyday.
And I would like to share it. This is also quite strange for me, because it is a personal thing, and I mostly share my work with people who are close to me in 1-1 settings. Apart from college peices, which were assigned and therefore, not as personal. So here is the first rough draft. Still tweaking and tinkering with some words, phrases, cadence, but here it is. Those of you who have known me since mid-college days should recognize what this is.
So I envision, musically, that it would start slow, build to chorus, pick up second stanza, carry through to a slowing second chorus, with a slow-down third stanza, final chorus. Anyhow, I welcome critique as long as it is helpful. And you musical friends--Kelli, Shawn, Larry, Bob, Aaron, UD--feel free to submit music. ;-) Oh, and try not to be too harsh.
When it all began,
right from the start
felt just like a plan
from one to another heart
And time flies when
you're having fun
wish I'd know then
how quickly we'd be done
(Ch. ?)
Endings are hardly ever good
and rarely ever understood
There's only one letter
between bitter and better
Its over all the same
Our forever ended yesterday
Built that wall up brick by brick
Added a gate and a heavy lock
made sure those walls were extra thick
sat back, looked about, took stock
And time drags when
you're broken up inside
wish I'd know then
could've run away to hide
Endings are hardly ever good
and rarely ever understood
There's only one letter
between bitter and better
Its over all the same
My forever ended yesterday
Late night, busy bar, glasses clinking
A quick look, our eyes met, we shared a smile
And amongst the people drinking
We stood and talked for awhile
Long talks, long drives, long walks
brick after brick was scattered around
then came a gift in small box
and with a yes, the last brick came down
Beginnings are full of fun and desire
and require much more after the fire
with a heartfelt letter
you turned bitter to better
What a difference a decade made
My forever started yesterday
Our forever starts everyday.
Thursday, March 4, 2010
ABC's of Blessing's (Parent's version)
So, to continue with yesterday's theme, here is Leasea's, followed by mine. Enjoy
A - asterisk
B - Baylie
C - Chris
D - dogs
E - extras
F - family
G - God
H - home
I - imagination
J - Jesus
K -Kelsie
L - love
M - money
N - noise
O - obstacles
P - passion (woo hoo! lucky me!)
Q - quirkiness
R - Rian
S - salvation
T - today
U - "un-do" button (on the computer, I was hoping she meant real life. Could really market that.)
V - voice
W - water
X - Excel
Y - yearning
Z - zippers
A - Airplanes
B - Baylie
C - Chicago Cubs
D - Dogs
E - eggs
F - Family
G - God
H - Home/house
I - Immaculate conception
J - Leasea's JOB
K - Kelsie-bug
L - love
M - Military
N - naivete
O - origins
P - Parents
Q - quarrels
R - Rian
S - Spring
T - tomorrow
U - unfinished
V - visits
W - wonderment
X - clear X-rays
Y - youth
Z - zest
Some of these may be readily clear as to why they are blessings, others may not. I guess when it comes down to it, for me at least, some of the things that I feel blessed by are things that make me stronger and better. And truth be told, the good things don't always do that. You have to have the bad things, to recognize the good. To grow.
Or to quote one of my favorite recording artists, "you know life would be awfully boring if the good times were all that we had."
And if you aren't my parents, one of my daughters, or my wife, and weren't mentioned by name, don't worry; if you are reading this, you fall under the "F" for family. And you all should know who you are.
Love,
C
A - asterisk
B - Baylie
C - Chris
D - dogs
E - extras
F - family
G - God
H - home
I - imagination
J - Jesus
K -Kelsie
L - love
M - money
N - noise
O - obstacles
P - passion (woo hoo! lucky me!)
Q - quirkiness
R - Rian
S - salvation
T - today
U - "un-do" button (on the computer, I was hoping she meant real life. Could really market that.)
V - voice
W - water
X - Excel
Y - yearning
Z - zippers
A - Airplanes
B - Baylie
C - Chicago Cubs
D - Dogs
E - eggs
F - Family
G - God
H - Home/house
I - Immaculate conception
J - Leasea's JOB
K - Kelsie-bug
L - love
M - Military
N - naivete
O - origins
P - Parents
Q - quarrels
R - Rian
S - Spring
T - tomorrow
U - unfinished
V - visits
W - wonderment
X - clear X-rays
Y - youth
Z - zest
Some of these may be readily clear as to why they are blessings, others may not. I guess when it comes down to it, for me at least, some of the things that I feel blessed by are things that make me stronger and better. And truth be told, the good things don't always do that. You have to have the bad things, to recognize the good. To grow.
Or to quote one of my favorite recording artists, "you know life would be awfully boring if the good times were all that we had."
And if you aren't my parents, one of my daughters, or my wife, and weren't mentioned by name, don't worry; if you are reading this, you fall under the "F" for family. And you all should know who you are.
Love,
C
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
ABC's of Blessings (Kids version)
Thanks Lynz for the idea, fun around the dinner table last night as we came up with these. Rian had to be prompted and suggested letter sounds and words on most, but she came up with some on here own too. Baylie did hers all on her own.
So here goes, free of any of my comments regarding validity or quality:
Rian
A - Angels ("I was angel at school!")
B - Busy Bees ("That's my school!")
C - cats ("We had a cat, didn't we?")
D - Dad
E - eyeballs (came up with this on her own, actually)
F - Flowers
G - God ("God make us all better, don't he?")
H - hills
I - Ice cream
J - jelly
K - Kelsie
L - ladybugs
M - Mouse (got upset when we suggested Mom)
N - Night night dresses
O - ovals (all on her own too)
P - Punching bags (on her own, thanks Nonni for "Kels'" Valentines)
Q - "quack quacks" from ducks
R - rice (on her own)
S - Snail shells (her own)
T - Tia (her own, friend from school)
U - unicorns
V - Valentine's cards ("I made one of those!")
W - watches
X - X-rays ("I had x-rays of my hand!")
Y - yellow
Z - zebras
Baylie
A - animals
B - blood
C - canteloupe
D - dogs
E - eagles
F - fishing rods
G - God
H - house
I - ice cream
J - jam
K - knowledge
L - lanes
M - monkeys
N - needles
O - oceans
P - plans
Q - queens
R - rabbits
S - school
T - trees
U - umbrellas
V - vultures
W - washing machines
X - x-rays
Y - yams
Z - zoos
Mine and Lace's to come!
So here goes, free of any of my comments regarding validity or quality:
Rian
A - Angels ("I was angel at school!")
B - Busy Bees ("That's my school!")
C - cats ("We had a cat, didn't we?")
D - Dad
E - eyeballs (came up with this on her own, actually)
F - Flowers
G - God ("God make us all better, don't he?")
H - hills
I - Ice cream
J - jelly
K - Kelsie
L - ladybugs
M - Mouse (got upset when we suggested Mom)
N - Night night dresses
O - ovals (all on her own too)
P - Punching bags (on her own, thanks Nonni for "Kels'" Valentines)
Q - "quack quacks" from ducks
R - rice (on her own)
S - Snail shells (her own)
T - Tia (her own, friend from school)
U - unicorns
V - Valentine's cards ("I made one of those!")
W - watches
X - X-rays ("I had x-rays of my hand!")
Y - yellow
Z - zebras
Baylie
A - animals
B - blood
C - canteloupe
D - dogs
E - eagles
F - fishing rods
G - God
H - house
I - ice cream
J - jam
K - knowledge
L - lanes
M - monkeys
N - needles
O - oceans
P - plans
Q - queens
R - rabbits
S - school
T - trees
U - umbrellas
V - vultures
W - washing machines
X - x-rays
Y - yams
Z - zoos
Mine and Lace's to come!
Friday, January 22, 2010
A new "note"
Is there anything better than a memory to bring about emotions? I mean, real, raw, pure emotion. Unequivocated joy, racking sorrow, wistful dreams, or whatever else the moment holds; memory holds the puppet strings to the heart.
Now some may argue that living in the moment is better, but I would say that as soon as you enjoy the moment, it is a memory. The moment passed with awe-sinspiring quickness, and all that is left is the vapor trail in your mind's eye. We could all go on and on about memories that have left their marks on our souls, but, since it's my blog, I'll be the one going on and on. ;-)
At this moment, I'd like to talk about Pop. My dad. Sure there are too many memries to mention in one blog post, so I'll narrow it down a little. Is it coming home from busting his hump all day and helping me/coaching me until dark? Now that was nice, but it was never really his thing, so I'll move on. Was it coming home from the Gulf after the Desert Storm? Unforgettable, but no. We've seen lots of great movies (when we didn't get along so great & we didn't have to talk much) but that's not where I'm going. Or how about some more recent trips (now that we are both older and get along better)? Nope, not those either, although those have been good as well.
The one constant between my dad and I that I can remember with vivid clarity is music. We don't always agree on selections. He has some talent in the area, I have none; apart from recognition of quality. Matter of fact, I am the only non-musical person in my family. But I digress. From early days sitting and listening to records on headphones; old tracks by Frank and Mel Torme, to riding up front on road trips while Mom at in the back, listening to Highwaymen. And on to the first present I bought with my own, hard-earned money at my first job--an Aerosmith concert, which became yearly tradition. Or a Father's day trip to Austin to see ZZ Top, or trading e-mails about tracks, or having long conversations about what was setting our hair on fire at the moment, old or new. (His hair must burn quicker) These memories are my favorites. These are what I hope to never forget about Dad.
We are both passionate about our choices, and its one area where we don't have too many disagreements. He doesn't enjoy any rap, where I appreciate some quality. I am not huge into some of his classical choices. But these are minor. Especially compared to some of the other doozies we've had over the years. What makes it so great is that music is so vast and ever-changing, that we will be creating new memories all the time. And we can re-visit old discussions. Tastes change, as we all know, and a song you used to not like, you may enjoy now. Or even better, one you haven't heard in a long time gets played on the radio; I mean how great is that?
So thanks, Pop. Thanks for giving me an appreciation of music. Thanks for taking the journey with me. Most of all, thanks for being a great Dad, I love you.
Where'd this all come from? "La Grange" was on the radio here today. Such a great tune. Cranked it up and hoped my kids enjoyed it. Better yet, I hope they remember it.
Now some may argue that living in the moment is better, but I would say that as soon as you enjoy the moment, it is a memory. The moment passed with awe-sinspiring quickness, and all that is left is the vapor trail in your mind's eye. We could all go on and on about memories that have left their marks on our souls, but, since it's my blog, I'll be the one going on and on. ;-)
At this moment, I'd like to talk about Pop. My dad. Sure there are too many memries to mention in one blog post, so I'll narrow it down a little. Is it coming home from busting his hump all day and helping me/coaching me until dark? Now that was nice, but it was never really his thing, so I'll move on. Was it coming home from the Gulf after the Desert Storm? Unforgettable, but no. We've seen lots of great movies (when we didn't get along so great & we didn't have to talk much) but that's not where I'm going. Or how about some more recent trips (now that we are both older and get along better)? Nope, not those either, although those have been good as well.
The one constant between my dad and I that I can remember with vivid clarity is music. We don't always agree on selections. He has some talent in the area, I have none; apart from recognition of quality. Matter of fact, I am the only non-musical person in my family. But I digress. From early days sitting and listening to records on headphones; old tracks by Frank and Mel Torme, to riding up front on road trips while Mom at in the back, listening to Highwaymen. And on to the first present I bought with my own, hard-earned money at my first job--an Aerosmith concert, which became yearly tradition. Or a Father's day trip to Austin to see ZZ Top, or trading e-mails about tracks, or having long conversations about what was setting our hair on fire at the moment, old or new. (His hair must burn quicker) These memories are my favorites. These are what I hope to never forget about Dad.
We are both passionate about our choices, and its one area where we don't have too many disagreements. He doesn't enjoy any rap, where I appreciate some quality. I am not huge into some of his classical choices. But these are minor. Especially compared to some of the other doozies we've had over the years. What makes it so great is that music is so vast and ever-changing, that we will be creating new memories all the time. And we can re-visit old discussions. Tastes change, as we all know, and a song you used to not like, you may enjoy now. Or even better, one you haven't heard in a long time gets played on the radio; I mean how great is that?
So thanks, Pop. Thanks for giving me an appreciation of music. Thanks for taking the journey with me. Most of all, thanks for being a great Dad, I love you.
Where'd this all come from? "La Grange" was on the radio here today. Such a great tune. Cranked it up and hoped my kids enjoyed it. Better yet, I hope they remember it.
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Its nice
It sure is nice to feel welcome. Everyone likes to feel welcome, right? It is a great feeling to walk into someplace and see a familiar face or even just a smiling one sometimes. I can't think of anybody who would LIKE to be shunned and excluded. Hmmm...
I got asked many things about being here while I was back visiting over the holidays, but one question that was most asked was, "are the people nice?" My standard response was, "well, sure, but its a different kind of nice." And then I would go into how, where and how I was raised, if someone new moved into the neighborhood, you went and knocked on the door, offered your name and a handshake--at the VERY least--and likely a cassserole or cookies. People are more reserved here, they are friendly, polite, but mostly quiet and keeping to themselves. I appreciate that, and it might be different if we lived closer to the city. While it is strange, I am adapting.
I am adapting, mainly, because of the wonderful people at our family oriented village pub. Not only have the owners, landlords, and staff welcomed me and the family, the regulars have as well. We are to the point where we now get invited for things. One guy has invited me to learn squash, one to take me to a WWII museum, and the golf society opened up to me right away.
Most of all though, the landlord, Mitch and his partner, Sarah have made me feel most at home. I, the new, American guy, have been invited to Mitch's 30th birthday on Saturday! I think that is pretty great. One of those, once in a lifetime shindigs, and they invited me. I am very excited to go and very humbled they invited me. Not that I should have expected it, but Mitch lets me know if they have something new, or something going on--like a random wine tasting to help pick new wines for the pub; they got us a card at Christmas, and even one at Thanksgiving, trying to show their hospitality. Really sweet.
They are wonderful ambassadors for the community as well, volunteering, raising money for causes, handling village functions, and being a information point for all things in the region. They are well liked, well respected, and on top of it all they run a first rate pub. Top quality food, Ales, and conversation.
They are really a credit to England, this region, and our generation. Thank you Mitch and Sarah for your friendship this first stretch of our stay here. I, for one, would have been lost without you guys!
I got asked many things about being here while I was back visiting over the holidays, but one question that was most asked was, "are the people nice?" My standard response was, "well, sure, but its a different kind of nice." And then I would go into how, where and how I was raised, if someone new moved into the neighborhood, you went and knocked on the door, offered your name and a handshake--at the VERY least--and likely a cassserole or cookies. People are more reserved here, they are friendly, polite, but mostly quiet and keeping to themselves. I appreciate that, and it might be different if we lived closer to the city. While it is strange, I am adapting.
I am adapting, mainly, because of the wonderful people at our family oriented village pub. Not only have the owners, landlords, and staff welcomed me and the family, the regulars have as well. We are to the point where we now get invited for things. One guy has invited me to learn squash, one to take me to a WWII museum, and the golf society opened up to me right away.
Most of all though, the landlord, Mitch and his partner, Sarah have made me feel most at home. I, the new, American guy, have been invited to Mitch's 30th birthday on Saturday! I think that is pretty great. One of those, once in a lifetime shindigs, and they invited me. I am very excited to go and very humbled they invited me. Not that I should have expected it, but Mitch lets me know if they have something new, or something going on--like a random wine tasting to help pick new wines for the pub; they got us a card at Christmas, and even one at Thanksgiving, trying to show their hospitality. Really sweet.
They are wonderful ambassadors for the community as well, volunteering, raising money for causes, handling village functions, and being a information point for all things in the region. They are well liked, well respected, and on top of it all they run a first rate pub. Top quality food, Ales, and conversation.
They are really a credit to England, this region, and our generation. Thank you Mitch and Sarah for your friendship this first stretch of our stay here. I, for one, would have been lost without you guys!
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Am I the only one?
Its time to put it all on the line. Step right up to make fun of me if I am the only one, but I gotta get this off my chest. Who knows, that may be all I need.
Okay, so here goes. Does anyone else ever feel like they are still a scared little, snot-nosed kid? I mean, I am 30--not AARP yet, but not a kid by a longshot--and there are times when I would just like to curl up and cry. I guess I do the adult version of that, because I get cranky and lash out, or get quiet and withdrawn. Is this a normal thing or am I just weird? Better yet, is it ok? Or most importantly, is this one of those man secrets that I was supposed to stay hushed about and now will lose my man card?
The thing is, I do cry, everyone of you knows that. What I am asking is if it is ok to be that scared little blond munchkin, wandering in Briarwood Mall at 7 years old who didn't listen to his mom and ran off. Thing is, that time, my mom was still watching. Just letting me learn from my mistake. And then she was there to hug me and let me breakdown.
I know not all of you are religious, but go with me here for a sec, indulge me. Is that instance the same as now, when I am scared and feel lost and helpless and just want to break down, God is watching, letting me learn whatever lesson it is I need to move on and become stronger. And then, he is there to comfort me afterwards. He sends people in the form of a SS class when you are told your daughter is not going to make it. Best friends who have seen me through all my drama, ups and downs, and still love me. Or a wife, who comes along right when you've decided to give up looking for a partner. Or parents, who have been there for scraped elbows, knee surgeries, broken bones, and all the other "stuff".
Many of you know that I had a rough first couple of years of college. Looking back, those problems weren't that massive, I was just immature and unprepared to deal with them. So I tried suicide. People get taken aback when I mention it--its taboo, don't ya know--but for me it is a reality. And you know what? I am thankful for that collapse. It made me realize how many people cared for me. It made me look at things in a different light. It made me realize how easily I got overwhelmed in certain circumstances. It made me realize how scared I was, and that my emotions needed to be redirected. I was scared and went the easy route; I was an emotional hurricane, usually fueled by beer, who could go from happy to tears in not time, and for no real reason. Now, while most of you know that last part hasn't changed, I feel I have the rest of it in perspective. Or at least I am working on getting it so.
I am still scared. I am scared of what medical issues await my family. I am scared to be so far away from my loved ones. I am scared about change in general. I am scared to be alone. I am scared for my extended family and the issues that they face. I am scared.
But I think that is ok.
Okay, so here goes. Does anyone else ever feel like they are still a scared little, snot-nosed kid? I mean, I am 30--not AARP yet, but not a kid by a longshot--and there are times when I would just like to curl up and cry. I guess I do the adult version of that, because I get cranky and lash out, or get quiet and withdrawn. Is this a normal thing or am I just weird? Better yet, is it ok? Or most importantly, is this one of those man secrets that I was supposed to stay hushed about and now will lose my man card?
The thing is, I do cry, everyone of you knows that. What I am asking is if it is ok to be that scared little blond munchkin, wandering in Briarwood Mall at 7 years old who didn't listen to his mom and ran off. Thing is, that time, my mom was still watching. Just letting me learn from my mistake. And then she was there to hug me and let me breakdown.
I know not all of you are religious, but go with me here for a sec, indulge me. Is that instance the same as now, when I am scared and feel lost and helpless and just want to break down, God is watching, letting me learn whatever lesson it is I need to move on and become stronger. And then, he is there to comfort me afterwards. He sends people in the form of a SS class when you are told your daughter is not going to make it. Best friends who have seen me through all my drama, ups and downs, and still love me. Or a wife, who comes along right when you've decided to give up looking for a partner. Or parents, who have been there for scraped elbows, knee surgeries, broken bones, and all the other "stuff".
Many of you know that I had a rough first couple of years of college. Looking back, those problems weren't that massive, I was just immature and unprepared to deal with them. So I tried suicide. People get taken aback when I mention it--its taboo, don't ya know--but for me it is a reality. And you know what? I am thankful for that collapse. It made me realize how many people cared for me. It made me look at things in a different light. It made me realize how easily I got overwhelmed in certain circumstances. It made me realize how scared I was, and that my emotions needed to be redirected. I was scared and went the easy route; I was an emotional hurricane, usually fueled by beer, who could go from happy to tears in not time, and for no real reason. Now, while most of you know that last part hasn't changed, I feel I have the rest of it in perspective. Or at least I am working on getting it so.
I am still scared. I am scared of what medical issues await my family. I am scared to be so far away from my loved ones. I am scared about change in general. I am scared to be alone. I am scared for my extended family and the issues that they face. I am scared.
But I think that is ok.
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
What's that you say?!?
This is a quick one, but I would like to declare myself on the "global warming is a lie" side. *gasp* (And its not just because of the recent cold snap. that'd be too easy and extremely misguided...but it sure is cold, and there are 3 inches on the ground.)
How could I? What a shock!
Actually there are as many scientists who believe that this "global warming" is cyclical and no more harmful than it has been for the last 500 years--the time of the "mini ice age" thta began 500 years ago, lasted a couple hundred years and has been getting warmer since. And that first ice age? It got warmer after that too. Duh.
There are as many as 30000 scientists who have filed suit against Gore, led by John Coleman. They can't get any airtime. There isn't any real drama in "we could improve, but things are ok." Google "global warming swindle" if you have 76 minutes free. There is this one too: http://www.globalwarminglies.com/. Or this: http://www.crossroad.to/articles2/009/green-lies.htm. And many more just like them.
I am not asking you to agree with me. At least not outright. I am asking that instead of believing whatever the news tells you, check out the other side of an argument. Make an informed decision. My generation is awful about this, I hate to say, but we are like herds of sheep, blindly going wherever we are directed.
Anyhow, that's it. Not asking for a debate, or for you to leave your opinions, just hope and pray that more of my friends will prove how smart I know they are and do some research before believing just anything they hear.
How could I? What a shock!
Actually there are as many scientists who believe that this "global warming" is cyclical and no more harmful than it has been for the last 500 years--the time of the "mini ice age" thta began 500 years ago, lasted a couple hundred years and has been getting warmer since. And that first ice age? It got warmer after that too. Duh.
There are as many as 30000 scientists who have filed suit against Gore, led by John Coleman. They can't get any airtime. There isn't any real drama in "we could improve, but things are ok." Google "global warming swindle" if you have 76 minutes free. There is this one too: http://www.globalwarminglies.com/. Or this: http://www.crossroad.to/articles2/009/green-lies.htm. And many more just like them.
I am not asking you to agree with me. At least not outright. I am asking that instead of believing whatever the news tells you, check out the other side of an argument. Make an informed decision. My generation is awful about this, I hate to say, but we are like herds of sheep, blindly going wherever we are directed.
Anyhow, that's it. Not asking for a debate, or for you to leave your opinions, just hope and pray that more of my friends will prove how smart I know they are and do some research before believing just anything they hear.
Monday, January 4, 2010
2nd half of Christmas trip
Alright, took me some time, but with limited computer access, and time being shortened to 24 hours in a day--when did this happen?-I think I am doing well to get it done first day back in the UK. And if you don't, tough. ;-)
So the day after Christmas, we went shopping. Big let down as far as deals go, but I didn't need anything other than the two sweaters I got, so it was fine. Found a good new pizza joint in SA, but they had pretty bad service. Typical SA. No worries, we were headed back over to Eric and Nina's that evening for more merriment.
Before going that direction, I detoured to meet up with Karla, who is in the wedding planning process. It was nice to see her, and I hope I was able to help her by being a sounding baord/venting plate. Hope things are going smoother K! On to Eric and Nina's...got into a movie discussion, so I felt lost not knowing squat about movies. Wait, thats's wrong. I know a little something. Basically just snacked, sipped, and listed favorite all time movies in different genres. Good times.
Sunday came, and I was realy looking forward to a full day and I was on the last third of my trip. Another one of those happy/sad moments I despise. Clear cut emotions are what I need! Started the day off at River City Community Church (http://www.reallife.org/) Try to go here when I am in SA, and since half of the church is the Powers Family, I feel comfortable. Big treat this time as Jason was preaching. Little info here. Jason is Aaron's older brother, and Aaron and I have been best friends for a long time. We looked up to Jason since he was older and a baseball stud, and he was mean to us since he was older and a baseball stud. Think Bill Paxton, Weird Science, just not so whiny. Got it? Well now he is the associate pastor, and wow! I really enjoyed his message. It kinda reminded me, in a way, of the conversations we had with him earlier in life, except about God. It felt like he was just talking with me, and it was 100% Jason. Loved it man. Oh and he gave me some advice, more on that later.
After church, lunch plans got cancelled due to sickness (sorry Jessica!) so it meant on to Aunt Jammer's for the day/night. FYI, Jennifer B. is Aunt Jammer, so named by Rian before she could pronounce Jennifer. Easy to see that was going to stick. Since we hadmore time and no plans, we headed to her mom's house (Madre) for a nice visit before going to Best Buy where the girls, not me, the girls bought Jenn a matching case for her camera. From there to El Chapparal for some tasty Mexican food; another type that is sorely lacking over here. Then a quick beverage stop at HEB before going back to her place to watch football and then The Holiday. How appropriate. I crashed there for the night, and woke up for some Mythbusters and coffee. All in all, as expected, a great, relaxing time with Jenn. I love you, hon!
Now I had golf ahead. So I stopped by Mom and Dad's to change and Skype the girls before heading out to face my destruction. PLaying with Jeff's old clubs, unfamiliar course, and I hadn't beaten Jeff before. Oh well, at least it was golf. But wait! What's this? I hit 12 fairways! I putted decent. I chipped well. We won't talk about the approaches. I won. Wait, let me try that again. I WON! Ok, that feels better. Sorry Jeff, I know you are better, so I have to rub it in. Jeff dropped me off so I could shower and meet back up for dinner with him and his lovely wife, Jennifer. Dinner, then a tour of the new(ish) office, and back to their place for more chatting. A long day, but a memorable one. I enjoyed it, and can't wait to do it again, brother. Love you guys
I needed a rest, but there was one more box to tick before leaving. The Conways. We had a lunch date, at Carino's of all places. Imagine Tim and I at a Carino's? P'shaw. Anyhow, it took Avery a little while to warm up to Uncle Chris, but after the bread started flowing, she was fine. What a cutie. It was a really nice, laid back visit. I was glad we made it work, especially since I missed Tim's 30th, and will miss Little Mr Conway's birth in March/April. Boo me! Sucks living only through pictures, but it'll have to do for now. Love you all, Conway Fam!
Whew. A rest. Back to spend the last evening in SA with the parents relaxing. But there was thing I had to do still. That bit of advice Jason had given me? He likes Fatty's Burgers better that Chris Madrid's. Wow. I had to find out fo rmyself, and there was no disappointment whatsoever. Super delicious grub. I will say however, that they are two distinctly different burger styles, so I will refrain from comparing them. Too hard to compare a griddle burger to a grilled burger, just has to do with what I'm in the mood for.
Leaving on a jet plane, don't know when I'll be back...delayed...again. Nothing bad, but of course I was. Poker that night after getting back to SS, and not as lucky as the first night back, cuz I lost, but ended up in the black for the trip, so good times. NYE had me playing Wii across the street at Matt's, and feeling old, but content. Sure wasn't just sitting around in 1999. Lucky to have survived those times. And to think, in 10 years, I'll have a kid in college. Shudder.
Day before I left, and I hung out with Candice, Rick and the kids, and Dennis and Glenda came over for dinner. Was good to be able to relax before I had to go, and the kids are old enough now where they remembered me without too much prodding. Really enjoyed my day, guys, thanks again, love you!
So, here I am, Monday morning, UK time. Took us a long time to get back here with delays arriving/leaving Chicago, and delays getting into Heathrow. Christmas was nice, and we had a nice dinner. Rian was the most excited to see me she has ever been, but that wore off pretty quickly. Ah well. Lace still isn't well, so she is off to the doctor today, and Baylie is still in bed at 8:30. I woke up at 4:30 with Kels, and now I have a long day of re-adjustment ahead of me.
Thanks a million once again to all those who helped make my Holidays so wonderful despite being apart from my family. I wish I could have seen more of you, or spent more time together, but again, someone shortened the hours in a day. Guess that is life. Wouldn't change it for the world.
All my love
C
So the day after Christmas, we went shopping. Big let down as far as deals go, but I didn't need anything other than the two sweaters I got, so it was fine. Found a good new pizza joint in SA, but they had pretty bad service. Typical SA. No worries, we were headed back over to Eric and Nina's that evening for more merriment.
Before going that direction, I detoured to meet up with Karla, who is in the wedding planning process. It was nice to see her, and I hope I was able to help her by being a sounding baord/venting plate. Hope things are going smoother K! On to Eric and Nina's...got into a movie discussion, so I felt lost not knowing squat about movies. Wait, thats's wrong. I know a little something. Basically just snacked, sipped, and listed favorite all time movies in different genres. Good times.
Sunday came, and I was realy looking forward to a full day and I was on the last third of my trip. Another one of those happy/sad moments I despise. Clear cut emotions are what I need! Started the day off at River City Community Church (http://www.reallife.org/) Try to go here when I am in SA, and since half of the church is the Powers Family, I feel comfortable. Big treat this time as Jason was preaching. Little info here. Jason is Aaron's older brother, and Aaron and I have been best friends for a long time. We looked up to Jason since he was older and a baseball stud, and he was mean to us since he was older and a baseball stud. Think Bill Paxton, Weird Science, just not so whiny. Got it? Well now he is the associate pastor, and wow! I really enjoyed his message. It kinda reminded me, in a way, of the conversations we had with him earlier in life, except about God. It felt like he was just talking with me, and it was 100% Jason. Loved it man. Oh and he gave me some advice, more on that later.
After church, lunch plans got cancelled due to sickness (sorry Jessica!) so it meant on to Aunt Jammer's for the day/night. FYI, Jennifer B. is Aunt Jammer, so named by Rian before she could pronounce Jennifer. Easy to see that was going to stick. Since we hadmore time and no plans, we headed to her mom's house (Madre) for a nice visit before going to Best Buy where the girls, not me, the girls bought Jenn a matching case for her camera. From there to El Chapparal for some tasty Mexican food; another type that is sorely lacking over here. Then a quick beverage stop at HEB before going back to her place to watch football and then The Holiday. How appropriate. I crashed there for the night, and woke up for some Mythbusters and coffee. All in all, as expected, a great, relaxing time with Jenn. I love you, hon!
Now I had golf ahead. So I stopped by Mom and Dad's to change and Skype the girls before heading out to face my destruction. PLaying with Jeff's old clubs, unfamiliar course, and I hadn't beaten Jeff before. Oh well, at least it was golf. But wait! What's this? I hit 12 fairways! I putted decent. I chipped well. We won't talk about the approaches. I won. Wait, let me try that again. I WON! Ok, that feels better. Sorry Jeff, I know you are better, so I have to rub it in. Jeff dropped me off so I could shower and meet back up for dinner with him and his lovely wife, Jennifer. Dinner, then a tour of the new(ish) office, and back to their place for more chatting. A long day, but a memorable one. I enjoyed it, and can't wait to do it again, brother. Love you guys
I needed a rest, but there was one more box to tick before leaving. The Conways. We had a lunch date, at Carino's of all places. Imagine Tim and I at a Carino's? P'shaw. Anyhow, it took Avery a little while to warm up to Uncle Chris, but after the bread started flowing, she was fine. What a cutie. It was a really nice, laid back visit. I was glad we made it work, especially since I missed Tim's 30th, and will miss Little Mr Conway's birth in March/April. Boo me! Sucks living only through pictures, but it'll have to do for now. Love you all, Conway Fam!
Whew. A rest. Back to spend the last evening in SA with the parents relaxing. But there was thing I had to do still. That bit of advice Jason had given me? He likes Fatty's Burgers better that Chris Madrid's. Wow. I had to find out fo rmyself, and there was no disappointment whatsoever. Super delicious grub. I will say however, that they are two distinctly different burger styles, so I will refrain from comparing them. Too hard to compare a griddle burger to a grilled burger, just has to do with what I'm in the mood for.
Leaving on a jet plane, don't know when I'll be back...delayed...again. Nothing bad, but of course I was. Poker that night after getting back to SS, and not as lucky as the first night back, cuz I lost, but ended up in the black for the trip, so good times. NYE had me playing Wii across the street at Matt's, and feeling old, but content. Sure wasn't just sitting around in 1999. Lucky to have survived those times. And to think, in 10 years, I'll have a kid in college. Shudder.
Day before I left, and I hung out with Candice, Rick and the kids, and Dennis and Glenda came over for dinner. Was good to be able to relax before I had to go, and the kids are old enough now where they remembered me without too much prodding. Really enjoyed my day, guys, thanks again, love you!
So, here I am, Monday morning, UK time. Took us a long time to get back here with delays arriving/leaving Chicago, and delays getting into Heathrow. Christmas was nice, and we had a nice dinner. Rian was the most excited to see me she has ever been, but that wore off pretty quickly. Ah well. Lace still isn't well, so she is off to the doctor today, and Baylie is still in bed at 8:30. I woke up at 4:30 with Kels, and now I have a long day of re-adjustment ahead of me.
Thanks a million once again to all those who helped make my Holidays so wonderful despite being apart from my family. I wish I could have seen more of you, or spent more time together, but again, someone shortened the hours in a day. Guess that is life. Wouldn't change it for the world.
All my love
C
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