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!
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
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
Friday, December 25, 2009
1st half of Christmas trip
Well, after a long layoff, due mostly to laziness, I am back. Truly back as well, in the sense I am back from the UK in the States for a strange Christmas journey.
Baylie and I came back last Saturday so that I could bring her to Wylie. She was a really good travel companion, and I even got a cuddle or two out of her. I know those moments are going to be fewer and farther between as she is getting older very fast--10 in 7 weeks, where has the time gone?
I had an adventuresome, brief day and a half at the house. The furnace room flooded, the car wouldn't start, and the ATM ate my card in the space of 10 hours. Ahh good times. But I won playing poker that night, so all was not lost.
The next day had me on my way to San Antonio via Tulsa & Houston for a whirlwind adventure. Trying to wedge 6 wonderful friends into 8 days is no small feat, but I came prepared with a plan, and so far--knock, knock--we are on schedule. Even ahead, if you count my bonus time last night. Score!
Tuesday was Aaron, Bre, Carson, Abby and Chris Madrid's. Boy, I sure miss being able to get a good burger. Had an awesome time. The kids remembered me, so we didn't have to spend the first hour or so having them warm up to me. Quite the opposite actually, with me becoming a road for Carson's cars within 5 minutes and Abby drawing me a picture of Aaron and I together. Aaron and I fell back into our old witty banter habits, remembering old times, and making new memories. Its so fun to be a grown up some times, especially when you are remembering just how dumb you used to be. Bre was as lovely as ever, and holds her own with us, which is wonderful. Really thankful God blessed AP with such an amazing wife. Oh, and by the way, EASILY the best photographer around. So talented Bre, still feel lucky you worked for us a million years ago. (OK, 4 and a half, but still.) What a wonderful and beautiful family. I love you guys so much!
Wednesday was a day for Mom and Dad. Dad is on call most of this week, but was off that day, so we wedged as much as possible in. Big breakfast at Mimi's Cafe, Dad and I took in Avatar 3D, and then a Brazilian steakhouse (OMG!) for dinner. The food was good all around, the movie was a visual stunner, even if it is a hippy propaganda movie telling us how bad we humans are.
Yesterday, I FINALLY got to see Kristen again. Only been 8 years, but lucky for me, she is great about keeping in touch. Coffee at Starbucks turned into two hours of catching up. Had a really great time and she invited me out with her and her brother after their evening church service, so I got a double shot of KW; lucky me. Hope its not another 8 years, hon, thanks for a great time!
Wedged in the middle yesterday was our Christmas dinner, which, though very nice and definitely tasty, seemed quiet and strange with just the three of us. No kids, no wife, no sister. Gotta say, not a fan. As much as I love you Mom and Dad, I hope this doesn't happen again. We went for dessert and drinks afterwards to Eric & Nina's, friends of my parents and mine since living in SA. Was nice catching up, and extra nice seeing as how Nina has been battling cancer, but is now in remission. Definitely an answered prayer!
So, here I sit, Christmas Day 2009. My family is literally spread out around the world. Much has happened this year. Starting with the news of CP & Epilepsy, through to the news we were moving abroad, to this moment. I couldn't have come close to predicting it. What a lucky guy I am though. With a great wife, three amazing kids--including a miracle, wonderful family and friends who are just as close as family I have made it through. I have griped and groaned (ask Lace), laughed and cried, sang praises and tilted at windmills, and here I am. Hopefully stronger, indeed enriched, and overall; extremely blessed.
So thank you, thank you all so very very much. I hope that I return a portion to you of what y'all give to me. To all of you reading this, I love you, and I am definitely a better person for knowing you. My life would not be what it is without you, no matter how often or how little we actually see each other or talk.
Merry Christmas (I know, I am getting carried away, roll with it) and I hope the new year brings you everything you hope and wish for.
C
Baylie and I came back last Saturday so that I could bring her to Wylie. She was a really good travel companion, and I even got a cuddle or two out of her. I know those moments are going to be fewer and farther between as she is getting older very fast--10 in 7 weeks, where has the time gone?
I had an adventuresome, brief day and a half at the house. The furnace room flooded, the car wouldn't start, and the ATM ate my card in the space of 10 hours. Ahh good times. But I won playing poker that night, so all was not lost.
The next day had me on my way to San Antonio via Tulsa & Houston for a whirlwind adventure. Trying to wedge 6 wonderful friends into 8 days is no small feat, but I came prepared with a plan, and so far--knock, knock--we are on schedule. Even ahead, if you count my bonus time last night. Score!
Tuesday was Aaron, Bre, Carson, Abby and Chris Madrid's. Boy, I sure miss being able to get a good burger. Had an awesome time. The kids remembered me, so we didn't have to spend the first hour or so having them warm up to me. Quite the opposite actually, with me becoming a road for Carson's cars within 5 minutes and Abby drawing me a picture of Aaron and I together. Aaron and I fell back into our old witty banter habits, remembering old times, and making new memories. Its so fun to be a grown up some times, especially when you are remembering just how dumb you used to be. Bre was as lovely as ever, and holds her own with us, which is wonderful. Really thankful God blessed AP with such an amazing wife. Oh, and by the way, EASILY the best photographer around. So talented Bre, still feel lucky you worked for us a million years ago. (OK, 4 and a half, but still.) What a wonderful and beautiful family. I love you guys so much!
Wednesday was a day for Mom and Dad. Dad is on call most of this week, but was off that day, so we wedged as much as possible in. Big breakfast at Mimi's Cafe, Dad and I took in Avatar 3D, and then a Brazilian steakhouse (OMG!) for dinner. The food was good all around, the movie was a visual stunner, even if it is a hippy propaganda movie telling us how bad we humans are.
Yesterday, I FINALLY got to see Kristen again. Only been 8 years, but lucky for me, she is great about keeping in touch. Coffee at Starbucks turned into two hours of catching up. Had a really great time and she invited me out with her and her brother after their evening church service, so I got a double shot of KW; lucky me. Hope its not another 8 years, hon, thanks for a great time!
Wedged in the middle yesterday was our Christmas dinner, which, though very nice and definitely tasty, seemed quiet and strange with just the three of us. No kids, no wife, no sister. Gotta say, not a fan. As much as I love you Mom and Dad, I hope this doesn't happen again. We went for dessert and drinks afterwards to Eric & Nina's, friends of my parents and mine since living in SA. Was nice catching up, and extra nice seeing as how Nina has been battling cancer, but is now in remission. Definitely an answered prayer!
So, here I sit, Christmas Day 2009. My family is literally spread out around the world. Much has happened this year. Starting with the news of CP & Epilepsy, through to the news we were moving abroad, to this moment. I couldn't have come close to predicting it. What a lucky guy I am though. With a great wife, three amazing kids--including a miracle, wonderful family and friends who are just as close as family I have made it through. I have griped and groaned (ask Lace), laughed and cried, sang praises and tilted at windmills, and here I am. Hopefully stronger, indeed enriched, and overall; extremely blessed.
So thank you, thank you all so very very much. I hope that I return a portion to you of what y'all give to me. To all of you reading this, I love you, and I am definitely a better person for knowing you. My life would not be what it is without you, no matter how often or how little we actually see each other or talk.
Merry Christmas (I know, I am getting carried away, roll with it) and I hope the new year brings you everything you hope and wish for.
C
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)