First generation skills

Last night Justin came into my room and announced to me the opening date of International Flower Show at Epcot. He has been wanting to go for a couple years and this is not something his buddies would be all about, if you know what I mean. Neither could they afford it—his desire to go is based upon my willingness to pay for it. (Am I smart enough, or stupid enough, to do this?) We already have Passports for the admission, would just need the hotel covered, the gas, and the meals. There WOULD be meals, have no doubt of that!

When he told me, I just sort of looked at him, as I had expressed in the past my concern the walking would be too much for me. Without me mentioning it again, he said, “We can go slow. We get a ride in from the parking lot, and we can sit down anytime you want….just so you don’t talk about computers…” I asked him why he thought I would talk about computers, since that’s really his thing to discuss ad nauseam.

What he was getting at was the fact that he would be patient with me as long as I didn’t need help on the computer. His point---he loses his cool when I don’t understand something he is helping me with. Well, that burned my biscuits, that little snot! I told him in my sugary-sweetest voice, “It’s okay, Justin, some day you will learn to be a better teacher…”. Why is it on me, the student, when he loses patience in helping me with something???

Justin and I have had this conversation in the past (of course!) where I explain from my vast knowledge, his certain and definite advantage of being a First Generation electronics lover/user, soaking up every morsel of this subject that he can. His father and I did not, do not, which is why we rely on the training or assistance of others. Besides that, our brains are being used for other purposes in addition to using electronics.

His father and I got our first home computer in 1984, I think, which operated using two floppy discs which were switched in and out of the slots on the face of the CPU. The computer was so expensive that we had to take out a revolving credit loan from the local bank to pay for it, with an interest rate under Carter at 24%!

When the computers were upgraded to the 3” discs from the 4.25” floppies, we had to replace the original machine. I cannot even remember when exactly the computers switched to non-disc driven operation (I know some of you might be cringing that I don’t remember or that I ‘stored that in my memory banks’, or am not using the proper terminology).

And when changes came, I went along reluctantly, hanging in with LOTUS when it was no longer cool. The expression of “get with the program!” was developed for me. Once I learned something, I learned it well, I got comfortable with it, and was not in a big hurry to be uncomfortable learning something different. I am so good in my happy place!

On the weekend I needed his assistance with the booklet I was editing, which was originally done in a word processing program I do not normally use. I asked him to help me move something which would not move the way I would do it in Word. He said to click here, tap there, hit Alt something or other, and I said, “AHHHHH!!! It all disappeared! Oh no, I have to start over!!” And then he got frustrated with me….


Later, I gave him his car insurance card and asked him, “Aren’t you glad I am smart enough to know how to pay for your car insurance?” Point made, point taken! Do NOT mess with me!

So, anyway, last night, he sort of muttered under his breath about the computers and then brightened up, saying, “You can teach me LOTUS!” I said I would if I had still had the floppy discs and he called my bluff, saying there some in a box in the back bedroom. Great! All we need is a machine which has the slots for them, and I will teach him, VERY patiently!

Clothes make the man...or girl

A couple weeks ago the young man from church who plays the bassoon and has a wonderful tenor/bass singing voice showed up in a car. Up until two weeks ago, he rode his bicycle from the Roosevelt Mall area to church, regardless of the weather. Because of riding the bike, he always sported shorts and biking shoes, and would change his shirt and shoes when he arrived. 

Robbie wanted the choir to wear robes for Transfiguration Sunday and was simply blown away that Sterling had long pants on! "Hey, you're wearing pants!", which sounded funny at church. The young man is no stranger to long pants since he is in the Navy. He was nicely groomed and not all hot 'n sweaty from riding the bike. He looked nice for church! 

Before CHRISTmas, Judy C.'s and my shared friend, Amber, was planning to come to church for her first time. She told Judy she wasn't sure what to wear having no 'fancy clothes' and she was assured that if she wore jeans, it would be okay. Judy and I decided to also wear jeans so Amber would feel comfortable. And she showed up wearing cotton slacks!!! 

Since then we wear our regular church clothes and so does Amber, but this week, she topped us royally! She had gone shopping with her granddaughter and bought a lovely plain black dress which she wore to church, complete with black hose and heels. Wow! She looked marvelous and received many compliments. 

This morning I watched a program on the Internet where there was criticism in regard to the image people present in their attire. I have long rejoiced that my children were boys and not girls. It seems that there is little in the stores for mom's to buy which is 'age appropriate' for school-aged girls. My little nephews wear jeans or similar pants with T-shirts or polos, and they are fine. To dress little girls, it seems, is a different story. The fashions are designed to have the kids look like miniature teenagers or worse yet--floozies! 

One of the men on the panel said, "I never thought I'd be 'that guy', but it seems, I am!!" Now that he has kids who are nearly grown, Andrew could scarcely contain himself when he saw what the chain stores and even Wal*Mart had on the racks for young ladies to wear for every day. In fact, Andrew said that the garments would not allow him to refer to these female children as 'ladies'. Not based upon their actions but rather, on what how they presented. Nearly every top had some sort of princess reference and/ or glitter feature. And he said he'd be darned if his daughters would carry on like that in a store when told "NO!" about a piece of clothing. 

Justin was talking to me last night after dinner (he likes to carry on conversations!) telling me about a mutual friend of Ron and his. Where Ron now works, the dress code has been lowered over the years. Their friend worked there when it was still 'shirt and tie' for everyday. I like that! I did when "business casual" was the code for Sprint, and knew what was going to happen when the dress was allowed to decline. People can deny it all they want, but it's absolutely true! The more relaxed one is with appearance, presentation!, the more relaxed one will likely be with the service provided, or with attitude in a social setting. Someone should do a sociological study about this---but it was probably already done! I have also become "that guy"....

Gathering my thoughts

This is probably not an advisable thing to do as mainly my thoughts should be left right where they are for now. There is much to consider these days in many aspects of my existence, and I tend to dwell on them, as it were. I will do my best work around them!

Here is my mom, Kathy, with three of her great-grandsons: Bryson, Sawyer, and Hunter. Sawyer was baptized on Saturday in a private service which was simply perfect, according to Mom.

How sad it is to once again have a school shooting, this time in Ohio. I hope and pray that not too many die as a result of this rampage. 


I was talking with someone recently about how people are lacking the ability to 'deal' with things. Has life been too easy? Folks seem to have only one emotion or one reaction to fall back on, that being rage.


When I was in training classes for Hospice, the instructor mentioned that people in America are so insolated from death and dying, as a rule, and therefore lack the skills needed to deal with it when faced. Huh....

We have extended our life spans by many years and have a lower infant mortality rate, limiting the exposure society has, as a whole, to losing people. Those 'skills', then, need to be developed and fine-tuned. In Hospice, the trained staff has to deal with people wishing to extend their loved one's life, whether they are conscious or not, in order to basically postpone having to mourn. We, again in general terms, have an aversion to showing our vulnerable underbelly of grieving. While I did undergo the training at the Hospice Center, the bulk of my grief training came via first-hand experience. 

Where was I going with this? Oh yes, how people lack the ability to deal with a situation which is out of their control by taking control, in some cases, with a weapon. In the neighboring county just over the Duval border, a mother of two little boys killed herself after taking the lives of her sons, ages 7 and 6. Oh God! Yes, I meant that, it is apropos to this situation. "Please, Lord, I hope those two boys are with you in bliss and that you have judged that mother as you saw fit." The police are still sorting out the details but it seems that there might have been the risk of a custody issue coming up. Her solution was NOT the right one!

I came out from under the covers

Sunday afternoon was spent almost exclusively in my room, snug and warm, even getting too warm at one point. The near constant drizzling and colder air made for a perfect day for vegetating. After Justin and I got home from church and lunch, we each retreated to our retreats. He went to sleep but I don’t believe that I did, although I certainly would not have minded.

I had to be at church for choir rehearsal at 9:30 so it did not pay to get there for Bible study. It begins after 9:00 due to the Sunday school opening first and it is disruptive to have the choir members leaving the study in the middle. Some of them do do that, but I am hardly graceful in my comings and goings. I just go straight to the rehearsal.

As our tiny in number choir rehearsed, the door to the breezeway opened and in came my friend, Emily’s, sister and her family. Every month I send them a prospect newsletter so it was great to see them come in. Another lady came in when they did, and I assumed she was with them. It turned out she was a visitor from the nearby apartment complex.

She listened as we went through our quite mournful Psalm 6 by Haas, with the refrain asking the Lord for mercy and in the verses we implore “How long?” at the end of each. The melody is haunting, especially so with Sterling accompanying the refrain with his bassoon. After we were done practicing, I greeted the visitor and she said to me, “Your song was so joyful….” What? There was nothing joyful about it, and if so, we messed up big time. I simply got her situated with a service folder and a first-time visitor goodie bag, leaving it at that.

After worship several people came up to say how much they liked the anthem, saying how moving it was. One lady had her little girl comment on it, which is remarkable. Mike C. lead the Bible study and worship as the pastor and his wife enjoyed a weekend away before Lent got into full swing. I understand I missed an interesting class so I should have made the effort. Rats!

                                                    

Justin and I decided to dine alone for lunch as there was fellowship after worship and I did not wish to stay. We went to Chili’s where I had my ‘usual’, bringing about half home for another meal. Justin had some sort of salad and polished it off. Our plans were to have leftovers for dinner but then he got a last minute invitation to have dinner at his friends’ house on Fleming Island. I was left to my own devices, eating the rest of the sloppy joes I had made for Saturday’s dinner. I make good sloppy joes and am not afraid to admit it!

Funny and cool

I was thinking about something I meant to write and never remembered to do it---a couple weeks ago before I took the items to the resale shop, Justin and I met my neighbors in the lobby. I knew Hugh got several papers a day so I asked him if I could please have a few pages for wrapping breakables, to pack in the boxes. Hugh gets the local paper, the Times Union, as well as the Wall Street Journal and the New York Times. He said he would drop one off when he was done with them and I said I didn’t need much, only a few sheets or so. He jokingly said he would bring the New York Times and stick it in my door, to horrify me, knowing how I feel about the NYT. He is so funny! I appreciate his donation to the resale shop!

Friday evening when Justin and I were at Wal*Mart, he was looking in the men’s department for a certain brand of t-shirt. We had gotten a couple last fall from the sale rack which were his favorite but we were striking out this visit. As I stood there at the racks, a cute little young lady came up to me. She looked so familiar to me but I did not place her immediately. The young lady said, “Excuse me, are you Miss Kim?” and I said I was. She said that has seen me at church when she comes with her grandma, Jean N. Oh, yes! I remember now! She reminded me her name is Hannah and that she was shopping with her daddy, who is one of Jean’s twins. Justin was blown away that she came up to me and asked, “Are you Miss Kim?”


I just enjoy such things as this!

The warm returned!

Our temperature here today reached the mid-80’s, hard to remember it is only February. At The Breakfast Club this a.m., conversations turned toward getting back in the pool again. Though that is still a far off date, the hope exists the warmer temps will speed the process. Being the big wienie I am, it will be toward the end of May for my first dip in the pool, but I certainly can sit poolside with my friends before then!

It was our pleasure to be joined by Miss Maggie O. today as she ignored being summoned to substitute at an area school for the day. She can work nearly every day at one school or another as a substitute teacher and has been doing that more this year as she is again supporting her daughter. Today, she needed a break!

Marissa returned to college to earn a law degree, leaving teaching, and moved back home with her mama to focus on her studies. She is doing so well with her classes that she has an opportunity to spend the summer semester in Florence, Italy, through a program offered by Penn State. How wonderful for her!!! Maggie might tag along part of the time as she has many foreign exchange students in Europe to hang out with besides Marissa. I would think American law would be complicated enough but add international law to the mix…and yikes!

                                  

Maggie O. and her daughter, Marissa, at Easter breakfast last year

My friend, Joanne , earned extended certification in international real estate to help her better deal with foreign investors and other buyers when they come to town. Many she never really meets, does the transactions and such electronically. Pretty cool, if you ask me!

Breakfast was just wonderful, and when I told Marlena this she laughed. She said, “You tell me that every week!” but I insist, it’s true! The breakfast chef makes the most delicious potatoes, seasoned baby reds, fried almost whole in herbs..somehow the skins get crisped while the rest stays fresh. We all order some, whether with the menu items, or special ordered, like mine! My breakfast is ala carte all the way.

Mary had a client coming in at 9:30 so had to fly. To facilitate her rapid departure,  I covered her breakfast for her. She helped me modify my walk last week (when I remember to do it) and I am so thankful for that. She "treated" our other breakfast partners, Randy and Carol W. this past week, helping them both with some aches and pains. A good friend to have, in the pain relief business. I wrote something for Mary’s website last week which she claimed was payment enough, but I knew she didn’t want to miss her client either. Now that I have written about those potatoes, I want some more!!!

After breakfast I went to the Island to make a bank deposit and then was home for the day. I was a printing fool with Time and Talent Sheets, each with a personalized cover coming out of my machine. The cover for the accompanying booklet should be a colored paper and since mine is cardstock, I will need to get some before proceeding. The newsletter is as far as I can go, unless more words come to me, either from me or to me, to wrap it up.

Justin is working for the landscaper today which means he will be incredibly weary when he gets home. He also worked on Wednesday, was totally beat and slept for a couple hours after getting home. Missed church and everything, though I did not expect him to attend. I suppose as his days pick up again in growing season, the work will become less taxing for him. Soon he will be working nearly full-time for pay, which he deeply appreciates. Almost as much as he appreciates his naps!

Shoulder rubbing

This morning I went to Victory for Bible study, stopping first at Dunkin’ Donuts for a dozen, plus a bottle of Diet Pepsi. Every week someone brings doughnuts to share with the group and today I was taking a turn. When I arrived at the church, I had a minute or two to spare---whew! Dawn got there at the same time I did so we walked in together, and found the others had already gone in to sit. Usually we have to wait for the pre-k students to finish their snack before we can sit down.

What a group we had! Pastor had set up three tables instead of only the two, with three people across each end, and four down the sides, no empty seats. My friend, Judy H., who now lives in Knoxville, has her parents living in JAX since before Christmas, and were in attendance at class. Susanne used to be a dental hygienist, the ‘official’ teeth cleaner of the Green Bay Packers!!

The study is titled, I think, The Names of Jesus, with today’s chapter of Good News being about baptism. We often expand on the topic to discuss things going on in the country and in the church related to what we are studying, with usually marvelous give and take. Pastor reported that this coming Sunday a family of four children will be baptized, age 9 and under, coming through the pre-k program. He has never baptized that many before so this will be a first for him. And what a wonderful gift for the children from their heavenly Father!

As it turned out, I took most of my bakery home because Rita had brought doughnuts to share, too. This often happens, a duplication, but she had told the others at church last night that she was bringing them. She apologized for not sending me ‘the memo’…we chuckled about that, and I assured her they were not going to waste. Waist, yes, waste, no, especially with Justin in the house! I like jelly-filled doughnuts with a sugar glaze but am not a huge fan of the cream-filled or powdered sugar coated chocolate filled ones. Pick, pick, pick! Since the vendor makes the mixture, I don’t have a say in what type go into the box. I did have one jelly-filled, which made me happy.

Justin had to help his father again today so I was on my own. Opting to not have lunch with the ladies, I went home after class. The afternoon was spent primarily at my desk working on the newsletter as far as I can go. My teeth are pretty much settling down now, but still bother me a bit with a dull ache, as expected, from being ‘violated’ earlier in the week. The gums are less tender every day, with ibuprophen handling the pulse felt in my teeth. A restorative nap is helpful, too!

The shoulder rubbing took place at a fund raising event  this evening held at a fabulous home off Doctors Lake Drive, for the campaign for state office of Travis. My former neighbor and present friend is running unchallenged at the moment for a new representative seat opened up from redistricting. I had been at this home in the past for other fund raisers and this time, Justin came with me. He loved it!  Not only the home and property, but the event as a whole. He got to see many of the area’s other elected officials there and talk with some interesting folks. And enjoy a fabulous spread of hot and cold hors d’oeuvres.

One of the first people we met there was a friend from the pool, Diane, whom I had seen not long ago at Manny’s Bistro when I was having dinner with Judy C. Diane and Judy used to be back-yard neighbors years ago in the Belair area, their daughters being friends in school, etc. Diane and her hubby attend St. Peter Lutheran on S. Blanding and know several families who used to be at G.S. that transferred there. Judy’s family transferred from St. Peter’s 30 years ago---small world!


The area hospitals CEO's were there, including Baptist, St. Vincent, and Orange Park. One of the men lives downstairs from me in The Palace, whom I have waved at but never met. Travis, during his speech, mentioned all the area elected officials in the room, listed his family members, as well as Justin and me as being his former neighbors. He laughingly remarked we were glad the overhead noise of little Beckham was gone. He thanked us for being good neighbors. How nice to be mentioned along with the dignitaries in the room!


So, when he said my name, my other neighbor sort of recognized it. I greeted him, and was so glad to finally meet. He said, "You're the one who sends out that nice newsletter! You do such a good job with that!"  And he said it more than once, which was most flattering. I told him I was sorry it took this long to meet, as this was sooo not my style. He regretted it also, explaining his long days at the local hospital. OPMC recently added a trauma unit which is able to treat people usually transported to Shands, in JAX. On the way home I told Justin it is good to have a connection with the man who runs the hospital, in case we ever need their services.

As we were leaving, Diane’s hubby, Roy, greeted us and I introduced Justin to him. He remarked about longing to get back to the pool again, and told Justin about my ‘special drink’. Justin knows about it, as he dug through his boxes stacked in the back room to find a partial bottle of Jack Daniels so I could make one for myself a couple weeks ago. “…and she only has one!”, Roy told Justin. Justin said he knew that and I told Roy we had to go home because I had had one drink at this event!

Before we left for good though, my other friend, Diane H., found us and gave out hugs. Diane is running for Travis’ vacant seat on the Board of Commissioners. She told me she nearly stopped by the other day to return a book she’d borrowed, but couldn’t remember easily how to worm her way down to my house from The Club. I would have loved her visit! She whispered to me that Justin gets more handsome with every birthday. He does! Plus his new glasses make him look even more debonair.

On the way home we stopped at Winn Dixie, or at first, I did. He dropped me off at WD while he walked back to CVS to get the soda which was there better priced. He met me then in the store where I picked up several items I needed plus some I wanted. I now have the ingredients to make my pot pie! When I checked out, the bagger asked me if I found everything, and I said I did, with help from a fellow in one of the aisles who reached a can of soup down for me. He asked me, “Did you at least get what you came for?” which made us laugh because this has happened, in fact, I have left without getting what I have gone for!

One day last week, I lamented on Facebook about feeling like a bad neighbor because I had not offered my new upstairs neighbors anything yet. A casserole would have been good, but I was lacking the ambition and some of the ingredients to do so. A day or so later, I had bought some break-apart sugar and spice cookies for Justin, his favorite, and I baked those for the people upstairs. Judy C. had brought me home-baked cookies she had left in her freezer from Christmas so I put them on a plate with half of the fresh-baked ones. The lady moving in has two teen-aged daughters, and I found the young folks taking a break in the living room with some young men, while Mom was bustling about. She apologized for the mess, but I explained that I understand about moving….yes, I do!

About being neighbors: a few days ago I got a text message from Jessica, thanking me for being so nice to their tenants, saying not everyone was as gracious as I am. I knew that the night of our Owner’s Meeting the one lady asked them to move the u-haul away from the steps up to The Club. Nancy had asked me how I got to the stairs and I said I went around the back of the truck…not that hard. Jessica had posted on Facebook saying I was going down as the world’s best neighbor---aw shucks…..I think it’s important to be a good neighbor and a good friend, especially when I don’t leak on them!

Ash Wednesday

It is Ash Wednesday and it seems we have only recently taken down the CHRISTmas tree..hmmm...Is that characteristic of aging, seeing the days and times fly past more quickly? Or, is it actually happening--did the world speed up? It might have, since things are so upside down! We have mild weather, though not entirely all blue skies and sunshine. Rain is predicted for later, perhaps while we sleep. Those who suffer with allergies are just waiting for a good rain shower to take care of the yellow pollen. Sunday's winds might have helped, if not only to have stirred things up even more!


Last week I had three different groups here for a meal, and I just told Justin that I thought I would not do anything this weekend. We will see how that goes, as one never knows. So many movies, and so little time. I have time to watch them, but would rather show them to others at the same time. 


I guess pre-screeening might be advisable after last Saturday's movie. Oops! I still have not located the case from that DVD which would have told me it had offensive (to me) language in it. The story is so cute, and would have been just as good with some editing, the way I saw it on TV!


The great idea I had to raise the TV higher on the stand for Super Bowl is yet in place, which means I am missing my file basket. My desk is getting overtaken by pieces of paper waiting to be stuck in the file so I must corral Justin to undo the rigging. It takes both of us to lift the TV out of the way, slide the baskets and the board out and then put the TV back in place.


This weekend we are tackling the back bedroom, where his overflow is placed, to get the room organized and orderly for my coming guests, due in less than a month. It might take us that long to get it done! No matter how much time he spends 'straightening' his room, it somehow does not look much better. Different, yes. Better, maybe. The way I like it? Nope!


This morning I had a meeting with the Stewardship Elder and the Maintenance Chair to work on the Time and Talent Sheets. It has been several years since our members completed them and with so many 'changes' to the congregation, it was time to revisit them. Some items we are removing and are going to revisit others. My job is the clerical end, up to the point of printing them off. I can print the sheets but I, for the life of me, cannot figure out how to manipulate the booklet pages (an accompanying piece called "Opportunities") to print it off. I never could get my head around it, even when I worked in the church office. About that, I am dumb as a rock!


First order of business, however, is to finish the work on the newsletter, which will be tackled in the light of day, after Bible study. And then the 'big' project of working on these T & T sheets and the booklet. I will have to butter up the church secretary to see if she will print them off for us once they ready! 


Tonight's worship for Ash Wednesday was very nice. The chancel was dressed in black, and Pastor wore his black gown. We celebrated Holy Communion as part of the service. Since only one usher was there, another member got up to help him while Pastor served communion by himself. It did not take that long although we had a good number of parishoners. Immediately after worship was choir rehearsal and we are singing a psalm again this Sunday. I hope I don't mess up...Miss one rehearsal and the whole works comes apart!


I am presently watching the debate, having missed the first half, and find it quite interesting as things begin to shake out. I heard somewhere that Ron Paul had a Lutheran background, as does Gary Johnson who also had his hat in the ring at first. Interesting to know this....and not sure why.

“When ends life’s transient dream…”

“…and death's cold sullen stream shall o’er me roll. Blest Savior, then, in love, fear and distrust remove. Oh, bear me safe above, a ransomed soul.” I did that from memory, up until the final phrase. Some days the hymns dwell in my head which is a good thing to have rattling about. I am feeling subdued today, as I watch the clock for my departure time. In a couple hours I will have a replacement tooth in my mouth so I can smile again.

Last night’s Condo Owner’s meeting went far better than last years which had me walk out. No filthy language this time but rather horrible financial news for us all. This economy simply must turn around, and soon! We are going to be on the hook for repairing/replacing the garage ceiling and 2^nd floor sundeck material due to deterioration. The costs for this are coming in at around a quarter of a million dollars. YIKES! Many folks are already financially compromised, being upside down in their mortgages, and such, and will have a tough time coming up with their share of this repair. At least the costs will be billed in 1/3 portions which is better than lump sum. I am very very sad!

****

Well, I am back from the dentist and have a temporary tooth in place so I am free to smile again, if I want to. I know I will, someday, when the numbness wears off. Not only the Novocain-induced numbness but that of the incurred expenses and those coming up soon. *sigh* 

Lots to think about today...

Well, I am home from the endodontist minus a bunch of money, and one front tooth. Not my very front one, but next to it. He made every effort to save it, but the crown shattered when he tried drilling through it. This was the second time he'd drilled through the porcelain since he did manage to save it the last time he did a root canal on that tooth, nearly three years ago. We knew this going in and I was optimistic that it could take the second visit. Nope. 


In fact, he wondered if perhaps the 'loose' crown might have been the source or pathway for the abscess to form. It seems the antibiotic did its thing in knocking down most of the infection, leaving a hollow area around the ends of the two teeth (do not disregard an abscessed tooth, people!) and hopefully the bone will heal where the pocket formed. Oh, brother! Me and these teeth! Cha-ching!


The earliest they can see me at the regular dentist is tomorrow morning so I will be overnight with an unsightly grin. One thought is to wear a surgical mask so I can continue talking, feeling less self-conscious, or simply keep my mouth shut. Not likely the latter will happen...I wish I did not have a meeting tonight so I could just stay in and have no one see me this way. 


Justin came out to my car after my appointment, as he was at work in the office next door. He gasped when he saw me, I almost thought he was going to cry. I just missed the dentist next door when they left for lunch so he took custody of my paperwork and was going to "keep watch" for them to come back. I came home to rest a bit, after having been in the chair nearly two hours. Later, he sent me a text message asking if he should make my dinner and leave it on a tray outside my door. Such a sweetheart, appalled at his mother's appearance!!


The good news is that my teeth did not and do not hurt, the infection is under control, and the work is done. The bad news, besides the broken crown ("Kim fell down and broke her crown, while Jill came tumbling after..."), was having to pay the bill. It sort of galls me that I have to pay twice for a root canal in the same tooth, but I guess it's not on them if it goes bad. Human nature talking there...I am also relieved in some ways to have one less living tooth in my mouth to shoot me through the roof when I least expect it. This is root canal #18 for me, since #17 was a do-over. I do not know how much a new crown will be but it is a must-have situation for me!


Judy C. called a bit ago to check on me, reporting what a nice class I missed today. She also told me the waiter at Longhorn, Jason, wondered where the "Firefly" lady was today. Michael explained where I was, and Jason felt badly for me. Michael asked if I could get a free Firefly next week...we'll see! Michael was the leader of the Bible study today since it was President's Day and Pastor was going to be off. 


The winds were wicked yesterday, but today, a bit quieter. It has been partly cloudy much of the day, and right now, the sun is out. Unfortunately it is on the other side of the building and not warming my room so the space heater is taking care of that. The air temperatures were cooled by those winds, according to Justin's report, but not insufferably so. In checking the weather for Orlando, I see that Thursday is supposed to be 84 above zero, which my friend will truly appreciate. Even though the winter was mild in WI, she looks forward to her time in Florida, not having to get a suntan through her goosebumps!
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Today is the funeral service for the Clay County detective killed in the line of duty on Thursday night during a drug bust. David White is his name, leaving behind his wife and two young children, including an infant. The funeral took place at First Baptist in Middleburg and the burial near Lake Asbury. I heard on the news that approx. 500 police and fire fighters attended the service and/or lined the streets when the procession made its way to the cemetery. 


At church yesterday I snuggled up next to Brad L. and told him that I had been thinking about him a lot since this happened. He said it was eerie because his team and he were doing the very same thing, breaking up a meth lab, but in Jacksonville. Almost to the minute when this happened in Middleburg. I have expressed my thanks to Brad almost every week but this time, it was different. I did not speak to Laurie, his wife, because I didn't wish to freak her out. She is likely borderline frantic every day the way it is..and now this...It has been nearly 100 years since a Clay County Sheriff's Officer has died in the line of duty which says much for their record. The other officer wounded is expected to make a full recovery, thanks be to God. The fallen man is now enjoying eternal bliss while the community continues to mourn...
                                                 

My day was made!

Justin is finally back home tonight after having been staying at his father’s house for several nights. First, he had to watch over his young step-sister and the dogs, and then, only the dogs. Oh, yes, and four outdoor cats. Hard to believe that there is a veritable menagerie under the same roof as these people. 

Justin had his pals over there to play games and such last night. Then, today, he had to make all things ready for an Open House plus Swiffer the floors at his step-mother’s home which was also having a showing today.

Late afternoon he called to ask me a flavor---could I please pick him up at the dog track where he was dropping off his father’s car, and then give him a ride back to that house. It’s not nice to interrupt your mom’s Sunday afternoon rest but I gave him a break and did it. The good news was that four families toured the place during the Open House which sort of makes it worth the effort.

It was over an hour on the road going up and then back down Hwy. 17 to help out my boy. It's a good thing he's cute, as Mom and I used to say. But, I know he will help me out when I am in a pinch…Anyway, he promised to stop and get soda for my troubles so that is great!

Before his call, I had begun watching a funny movie, one I would not ordinarily tune into, but it captured me with talk of Europe. “The Last Holiday” with Queen Latifa in the lead role, was about a woman diagnosed with three weeks to live. She cashed out all her investments, quit her job, and headed to Europe to enjoy a certain hotel/spa of her dreams. She spent like she had it (which she did after cashing out!) but was kind, spoke her mind because she had no reason not to, and was about to meet up with the man of her dreams…when Justin called for his ride. Blast! Now I won’t know how it turned out! I will have to watch it another time to see how it ends.

You might wonder what made my day, though. This happened when Justin got back here, carried up his belongings as well as the soda cases, then sat in my desk chair. He heaved a great sigh, and said, “It feels so good to be home…” Justin went on to say that he had felt sort of funny staying down at his father’s house, had a weird feeling in him, but as he got closer to home, he began to feel better. And now, he felt good again! I was 'heart-warmed', doing cartwheels inside, but outwardly, I simply acknowledged his feelings. There is a huge difference between living in a 'model' and living in a 'home'. He was looking forward to taking a shower ‘in my own shower’, washing his clothes in fresh-smelling water, and being in his own room. In fact, even promised to straighten things up in there tonight. Most recently though, he confessed to losing his ambition---boy, I never saw THAT coming! But yet, my day has been made!

I miss the sun!

As I write, one of my friends from childhood, a bit older than me, is on her way to Florida, having stayed the night in Dalton, GA. On Facebook, I apologized to Rae Sue for having to arrive in gloomy, overcast weather. At least the temps are decent, in the low 70's, but just very sad looking and feeling. Her hubby and she winter at least a few months near Orlando so they have some time to enjoy bright, sunshiny weather.


Not much to watch on TV this afternoon with even the real news stations covering the funeral of the deceased singer. I am hearing noises overhead, and wonder if perhaps the new tenants are upstairs, getting settled. Travis told me yesterday some people were likely moving in this weekend. Wow, that didn't take long! I hope to meet them in short order, and caution them about the water situation!

Stephanie and her mom, Jean, at my home for dinner last night

The dishwasher is running in my own kitchen after I cleared it of last night's dishes. It gets so grungy around the edges and I wiped as much as I could using the dish cloth. For areas I could not reach, I am allowing the dose of bleach to take care of. Justin came home briefly and asked me if I put bleach in my drinking water, as I was refilling the water pitcher at the same time as the dishwasher running. No, that bad, I am not!


Justin called me from the road, coming from his father's house, asking me to meet him downstairs to offer, in his words, "moral support". He was bringing over the long-awaited bookcase. Justin was of the opinion he could handle it alone but wanted me to stand-by and be supportive. He did manage nicely with a multi-purpose dolly thing to wheel it up. He gathered some clothes for tomorrow, not sure he will make it to church though. His pals are coming over to play games tonight and he then has to make sure the house is in good order for an open house tomorrow. 


Even though I have the nice leftovers from last night's dinner waiting in the fridge, I am still marinating some chicken breasts to make for dinner tonight. Judy C. and Amber are coming over to have Dinner and a Movie. Since Amber is diabetic, I am going to serve something less troublesome for her diet. Good thing I have salad left from last night's meal! We are going to watch "A Good Year", a movie I have had on hand for a couple years after seeing it at the theater. It will still be France, only not Paris this time!

It’s all about networking

Even though we ate together on Tuesday night at Trivia, we ate together again tonight! Stephanie and her mom, Jean, came over for dinner, arriving a few minutes late due to crawling along on 9-A for a distance. Now that I think about it, she never did say if there was a wreck or what caused the delay. It was fine, the meal held nicely. I made a beef roast, baby red potatoes, baby carrots (I served baby food!!!), salad, and the ladies brought dessert. Jean made apple squares which are absolutely delicious, as I enjoy one now. Erica was invited as well but she worked until 6:00 pm and then was going on a date with her Justin.

Early afternoon I heard my doorbell ring which I expected was Connie or one of my neighbors. Nope, to my great delight, there stood Dee! She had dropped her hubby off at Astor Place beauty salon for a hair cut and came over here to chill. It was grand! I told her how Mary and I had just talked about her this morning at The  Breakfast Club, admiring a piece of her art which hangs in the lobby to the garden room.

Last week Friday at Great Hang Ups, Julia and I talked to Mary about swapping art lessons for her myofascial treatments with this artist we knew, Donna. Sure enough, there were about 8-9 of Donna’s pieces hanging in the garden room. Mary is interested in a drawing class or pen and ink classes, and Donna would make a great teacher for her. It’s all about the networking. 

I was proud of myself for walking the long way around (instead of cutting through the pool area) to get to The Club for breakfast, and when we left together, Mary watched the way I walked. She said my right hip drops, which is likely due to favoring my left knee. Of course, I have to take her word for that since I can't see around back. As we walked along, she showed me a different way to walk, tucking my butt under me, sort of arching my back, and making sure my legs go behind me. Lots to remember, but I felt a difference immediately. This will take some practice and remembering but I like not having the burning in the hips.

She has a Facebook page for her business with nothing on it, because she is not sure what to put there. I suggested she write “Notes” about various treatments she has provided, how clients have avoided surgery after she’s helped them, and so on. When I got upstairs, I wrote up a brief (ha, yeah, for me, brief!) article to put in her “Notes” about her helping my walk. It’s all about the networking!

Mary gave me a huge compliment before we parted company. I cannot remember how it came up but she described me as being genuine. Oh, I remember now---I was sharing the exploits of using the foam ‘silver remover’ in my hair the other night and still making a mess of it. The stains don’t show up until the light of day, finding discoloration on my white faucet in the kitchen, splashes in my sink, and stains on my night gown. She told me she liked the highlights that showed up around my face with the silver in place, saying I looked sprightly. Is that the new word for ‘old’? I thanked her for saying that and then she went on to say we might be universes apart in our beliefs and all that but it didn’t matter to our friendship. Nice, and I was genuinely thankful!

"...but I'm disheveled"

That was from Justin this morning, when I told him he could forego his morning shower. It was about 5 minutes before our 'apparture' for Bible study and I knocked on his door to make sure he was ready. Yikes! He was yet wrapped in his sheet, nowhere near up and about. I urged him to get up and dressed, going just the way he was, so to speak, without a shower. This appalled him, saying, "...but I'm disheveled!" which struck me as so darn funny. That sounds just like him!

As it was, he got showered, dressed, and brushed his teeth in record time, not allowing wiggle room for getting gas. We were okay gas-wise, and likely would be able to drive to St. Augustine to get gas, as his father used to say, but that is not the way I like to roll. Nothing bugs me more, in my car, than having bells dinging or lights flashing that are not supposed to be signalling at me! I make the rules now, and my rule is to get gas before the light comes on, for peace of mind and using good judgement.

Anyway, we filled up on the way to lunch, stopping on Baymeadows Road to do so. Justin's big idea, a million dollar one, would be to build a gas station off of 9-A at Kernan Blvd, as there are no stations on Kernan until one gets to Beach Blvd. The UNF traffic alone would carry it, he thinks.

Rita, Justin, and I thought Emily K. would join us, which was the plan, but she had to get back home to pack for their move to Charleston. Her hubby is already there, working at Boeing, which the Unions had tried to close. We are thankful for and with this family that he was able to find this job, and then keep it! Todd retired from the Navy and found work in the private sector. We are sad to have our friends moving away but are glad for them making a new home. I wonder whose table I will sit at this year for the Advent service at Victory since Elissa will be gone...She was the hostess for a table two years in a row, as a teen-ager!

Ladies' Advent Service at Victory: from left is Stephanie, Elissa, Amanda, Suzanne, me, and Cathy (Amanda's mom)

Rita had some Groupons to use at Gilman's Bakery, owned by someone I knew from scrapbooking. After lunch we went over there with her, thinking she could use both her certificates. That did not work out, only one certificate per visit (rats!). Unfortunately, Dena was not in the shop nor did they have any of that wonderful layered cake Justin and I love so much. Dena makes a pound cake layered with cheese cake, and flavored with lemon zest. Incredibly delicious! Spared us those extra calories, but saddened us anyway.

My birthday cake made by Dena in 2009. Oh, my, talk about delicious! Yes, those are real roses on top!

My mouth feels almost like normal, which means the antibiotic is doing its thing. As I told my tablemates today, because the problem seems to have been averted, I might not have extra dental work done. I know that I have done this before, same area, a couple years ago when I had my last root canal done, cancelling the appointment since it was not needed, in my opinion. I am going to suggest we keep it under a 'watch' for future problems and see what he thinks of that idea...Bet he is opposed!

At least the day began nicely...

This was the sunrise which greeted me this early morning, begging me from my warm bed to grab the camera

Some of this is gross....

When I went to bed last night, I had a goofy tongue and gross sac inside my mouth, thankfully without pressure or pain. Except for the 'hot' feeling on my tongue. Boy, the ice cream I had at Johnny Angels Diner felt so good sitting in my mouth...

...and now I know why! I made my appointment first thing this morning, getting a time slot of 2:00 pm. Okay, I can wait. When I got there, I had to stay in the waiting room for a bit until they were free to squeeze me in. I drew a crowd! The young lady assistant looked at things with her mirror, referenced my x-rays from Feb. 1st's appointment and said, "Hmmmm...." a couple times. Pretty soon Yvonne came in and she said, "Hmmmm....", too. Then Dr. Lessig, Peggy, came in, started looking things over and tried to figure what that was. 

The assistant had taken an x-ray before the others came in, so they were scratching their heads, figuratively speaking, trying to determine what the heck it was. Two of them tapped on a couple teeth to see if one of them 'ached' when pressed or tapped. Nope, although one felt 'different' than the others. It turned out to be a remaining live tooth, but not where the sac was located. Hmmm....

Peggy decided to take a measurement, using a piece of equipment put into service for root canals, and pushed it up into the 'pocket', the drain. And then another x-ray with the thing in place to see how far the space went up into my head. It did not make sense to her so she referred me next door to the endodentist. My friend, Michael! Rats!!! IF it's one certain tooth, it already has a root canal in it...IF it's the other one, it has no root canal. She thinks it might be the one already treated that sprung a leak. Her poking around opened up the draining a bit more so I taste it now.

I asked why I did not taste anything yesterday already and why my tongue felt funky. They indicated that the ooze would be salty. Aha!! That would explain why I was so incredibly thirsty yesterday, drinking Diet Coke after DC and then water to quench my thirst. Now it makes sense. It also aggravated my tongue, like eating too many chips or nachos. It is much better today, by the way, probably thanks to the ice cream!

Monday is the soonest that Michael can see me, which puts me in the middle of Bible study which I hate to miss. In the meanwhile I am taking penicillin to beat down the infection. I had the scrip filled at Publix while I shopped and remembered there being no charge for antibiotics there. Yay! 

I got my ingredients for making dinner for Stephanie and Jean Friday so I am all set. And restocked my own sherbet supply for medicinal purposes. I was supposed to be at choir tonight but simply did not feel up to it. Robbie excused me, saying we will rehearse on Sunday at 9:00 a.m. as we sing for the service that day. So glad I still get to help edify the worship---at least I hope this is true!

"Your face is falling apart!"

We had to wait for a table...imagine that! When we arrived at Trivia, the first of our team, all the tables were taken in the area where "Nothing Tips Like a Cow" generally sits. It seems that many use Johnny Angels Diner as the place to take their valentine to dinner! Tara, our faithful waitress, said it had been busy all day, and she would know since she'd been there since 6:30 a.m.! Wow!


Cary came alone as Nancy was out shopping for a mother-of-the-groom dress. For some reason, his help was not needed on that project. Erica was absent as well, being out with her Justin for St. Valentine's Day. Stephanie and her visiting mom, Jean, rounded out our team, which managed to take 3rd place. Jean returns to WI on Saturday so this was her last time with us this visit.


Before Justin and I headed to Trivia, we stopped at the cemetery to leave the floral bouquet which graced the chancel Sunday, in memory of Timmy's baptism. I had collected the bouquet on Monday but didn't take them over as I wanted to get home after lunch. The bouquet was lovely with white and yellow flowers plus a trio of purple upright flowers as the backdrop. Cliff said they looked like a frame for the rest. Just beautiful...


The reason I wanted to get home so intently was because two main cut-off valves were being replaced in the unit two above me. This made me nervous even though the water was being shut-off for the entire building while this took place. 


When I was in WI, I had gotten a call that this unit had a leak from the ice maker line but neither Justin nor Hugh could see any damage or dripping in my condo. The Owner told us later that two of the three valves in his unit did not work, were 'frozen', in his words. Thankfully they had the good sense to replace the inoperable ones, and, without incident, this has been accomplished.


I had made a plan to have Stephanie, Jean, and Erica come for dinner on Saturday night, not realizing that Jean was leaving that morning. Instead, they are invited to come on Friday night. Nice! The only time Stephanie had been here was the Saturday after the Great Flood and my house was torn apart. This time she will see it in its more orderly setting. 


Rita has invited Justin and me to join her for lunch on Thursday after Bible study, as she has a Groupon to redeem for cupcakes. We are looking forward to this outing and the time together.
                                                       
I bought a Groupon for having videos transferred to DVD's but have now realized that the videos must be shipped off in order to have this done. I am very hesitant to do that, so may have wasted $30 on this 'deal'. When I read the "fine print", it indicated the service was offered through Walgreens, but I guess they send them off as well. Because the videos are primarily 'home movies' of my kids, I would rather keep them local. I wish the machines for doing the conversions were not so expensive, in order for me to this myself. Once the videos were transferred, the equipment would sit there, idle. I wonder if a used one would be a good investment...


When Justin came home from work, I told him how my tongue felt goofy, as though I burned it. I stuck it out to show him and he exclaimed that it was all red, with a cut down the middle. Yikes! I leapt to my feet to check in the mirror, and sure enough, it looked beet red with a seam. I had noticed also an owie between my gum and lip which was tender. A reaction to something I'd eaten?


This is rather gross but since I could not see in there using a hand mirror, Justin offered to take a picture using his iPhone camera to show me. A pustule has formed for some reason. I will be seeing my friend, Peggy, in the morning to have her check this out for me. In Justin's words, "your whole face is falling apart!" 

Back from another trip

Once more I spent some time in Paris, in the 1920’s, as well as the turn of the century, this time with Martie. She has been unavailable for social things since I returned from WI due to having had pneumonia. I was so glad when she told me she was up for a movie and dinner tonight! Yay!

The original plan was making a turkey pot pie but it seems I did not have the cream of chicken soup I thought was there (it just occurred to me that I did not check in my food storage closet!) so that idea was scratched. My intent is to clean out the freezer somewhat, rotate stuff and restock with fresh, frozen (is that an oxymoron?) food (lovin’ the alliteration! and punctuation!) I had pie crust on hand as well as the turkey pieces from the ThanksLiving bird to use. I must get some mixed vegetables and the cream soup in order to make the pie.

There was a Stouffer’s lasagna in the freezer which I chose to make for us. Justin was going to be away for the late afternoon and evening for a Team Teal event downtown so this lasagna would be enough for us two ladies. In fact, we ate only half of it. The lasagna could be prepared either in the microwave or baked, but I did not allow enough time for oven baking. Earlier in the day I turned the heat on for the entire house, rather than only my space heater for my room, to take out the chill from the air. (I cannot wait until it’s 80 on Thursday!!) but having the oven on would have helped as well.

                                               

I served cranberries with the lasagna as well as the green beans I had made on Saturday, using the bacon and mushrooms, like Suzanne taught me. Yummy! It was wonderful to catch up with Martie and then we got into the movie, “Midnight in Paris”. Yes, it was the 4^th time I’d seen it, the third time at home, but it is so fun to watch it with someone who is seeing it the first time. I do hope it wins at least one Oscar from its various nominations.

Martie liked it and suggested we go to Paris. When I told her how Justin had found a place for us to go on our next trip (he told me this on Saturday night), she said, “Not Greece!!, please tell me not Greece…” I assured her it was not, and very, very likely we would also not be going to Tunisia, which Justin had suggested. Apparently there was a movie made there and all the sets remained for tourists to visit. Which movie was made there, I cannot recall. And I won’t ask, either, and reopen that can of worms.

A valuable lesson has been learned since my boy moved in with me---I cannot expect to find things in the cabinets or fridge which I thought were there. One example, for dessert tonight, I was going to serve vanilla ice cream with whole cranberry sauce over the top. I went to check the ice cream and sure enough, there was only enough for one serving remaining in the container. I had not eaten that much of ‘my’ carton. His carton was Oreo Cookie which he consumed alone. Glad I checked, how embarrassed I would have been!

On the weekend, I had mentioned something to Justin that we could make as I had what was needed in the fridge or cabinet (can’t remember right now) and he said, “Not anymore…” So, because of this, I will not make plans for preparations without checking first for the ingredients. I joked with him when he was making yet another batch of cupcakes that I am going to have him sign a piece of paper acquitting me of all charges if he regains his lost weight. I am not the one making the cupcakes nor am I the one devouring them. Now cookies are a different story…
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Friday was the day my lady friends and I went to Great Hang Ups. When I pulled into the stall, I looked at the lovely windows of the boutique next door, which features clothing NOT for women of size. One display had a open mesh white poncho, for spring. In that moment I was sad that it was not my size and also pondered again what ever happened to my black open mesh pool cover. I was even wondering if Justin would have done something with it since he is NOT fond of me wearing what he calls ‘fishnet’. Then, I walked into Great Hang Ups to see my black mesh poncho lying on the counter as well as my book about Chihuly glass. What??? I couldn’t believe it!

Julia was cleaning some stuff up and came upon the poncho and the book which she has had for a couple summers. When her hubby and she visit his folks’ beach house, she borrows a swimsuit from me and evidently forgot to return the cover-up. What great fun that was, when I had just been thinking about my missing top! Love when that happens!!!