Fun to sleep in a bit. So enjoy having The Husband home.
Fun to have a "play day". We took a quick drive to Park City to the outlets, found the husband a bargain on a pair of truly-needed shoes. Found a wallet for me - not only one I think I'll like, but it was on sale for less than $20 - and leather, too.
Chatted with a friend this morning and he gave me a fun mental image. He was going to flip a coin, but only had a dollar bill in his pocket. Said he thought he'd try flipping the dollar bill but didn't think it would work.
Fun to have an evening out with friends - celebrating the acquisition of employment for The Husband. Splurged on dinner at Outback, followed by the movie "The Life Of Pi" which I was hesitant about seeing. Read the book, didn't like the book (yes, I know I'm in the vast minority there, didn't like the writing, thought it was sub-par and yes, I've been pounced on for stating my opinion about the book) but thought the movie was great. This was visual eye-candy.
Fun, fun, fun to think The Husband will be having a fun job again, the last year has been lacking in that regard.
Thursday's Thinking
Thinking I need to work on my attitude about people that only contact me when they want something from me. I need to be kinder in my thoughts about stuff like this. Breathe in....Breathe out.
Thinking The Husband wasn't as sneaky as he thought he was being when I ended up playing the piano for his choir practice session. (I really didn't mind, and had actually made a mental bet with myself about how he was going to work it. I'm thinking it was kinda fun.)
And thinking tonight it will be difficult for me to ever properly or sufficiently thank Heavenly Father for yet another miracle in our lives. (No matter how good I try to be.) The Husband has accepted a verbal offer of employment. He interviewed on Tuesday and Wednesday and had a verbal offer on Thursday. I'm not sure things have ever happened that fast for us. It will be a job that he will enjoy. One that will provide us with enough income & provide him with more interaction with people than he's recently had. I keep asking if this is for real - I'm often astonished at the way Heavenly Father extends his hand to work in our lives.
Thinking how fortunate I am to have the testimony that I have, how blessed I am in so many ways. Thinking I'd better work harder to be worthy. That's lots to think about.
Wednesday's Wonderful!
Wonderful to look skyward after the sunrise and see (YAY!) blue sky!! The wind had pushed all that "yuck" in the air to some other place. Love the sunrise.
Spent some serious time here. Not that I endorse this particular bookstore over any other (or the library for that matter). I just walk into a bookstore and feel "home". Wonderful to find just what I needed.
Wonderful to find that my heart is still beating strong after being "scared to death!" by the grandson. (I was vacuuming, didn't hear the door open, didn't hear him behind me, about jumped through the ceiling when he hugged me.)
Wonderful Jamba Juice with extra banana and whey protein. Even more wonderful: I had a full frequent buyer card so it was free!
And the best wonderful of all for today: The Husband is on his way home. He's had a couple pretty good days. Our fingers are crossed for some wonderful results.
Tuesday's Triumphs
Triumphed over my urges when I resisted stuffing my face with chocolate. Haven't done it yet - although I wanted to.
Triumphed over my impulse to spend money. I think they pump something into the air of the stores at this time of year (or is it always that way, just even more at Christmas time?) to make us part with our cash for stuff we don't need.
Triumphed over my natural laziness: need to pick up a gift for a specific reason - resisted just grabbing something off the shelf in favor of waiting to find something more personal.
Triumphed over the checkbook register when I managed to get things in order there.
Triumphed over some of the trash when I managed to get several of the humungous bags of leaves into the bin that is already overfull. (Weight limit=300 lbs. I wouldn't be able to roll a can weighing 300 lbs. to the curb, would I? I must be safe then.)
Triumphed over my urges to stuff my face with chocolate. Oh, wait, I already said that? Perhaps I haven't really triumphed there. Heading in to find some chocolate......
Triumphed over my impulse to spend money. I think they pump something into the air of the stores at this time of year (or is it always that way, just even more at Christmas time?) to make us part with our cash for stuff we don't need.
Triumphed over my natural laziness: need to pick up a gift for a specific reason - resisted just grabbing something off the shelf in favor of waiting to find something more personal.
Triumphed over the checkbook register when I managed to get things in order there.
Triumphed over some of the trash when I managed to get several of the humungous bags of leaves into the bin that is already overfull. (Weight limit=300 lbs. I wouldn't be able to roll a can weighing 300 lbs. to the curb, would I? I must be safe then.)
Triumphed over my urges to stuff my face with chocolate. Oh, wait, I already said that? Perhaps I haven't really triumphed there. Heading in to find some chocolate......
Monday Mourning
Mourning the absence of The Husband as he's away for a couple days. I miss him.
Mourning the absence of my morning walk on the trail. Due to seasonal pollution in the air that I wish to remain in the air and not reside in my lungs, I exercised indoors.
Mourning the soon-to-be-end of another two week free Sirius radio on my car. I refuse to pay for it, don't need it, only put 3500 miles a year on my car so it would be a waste. But periodically they run one of these trial periods to entice me to part with some cash and so for a short time, I again enjoy the satellite radio.
Mourning the end of a holiday week and the need to get back into a routine. (Not really, just felt like I needed to add another thing to the list. But sort of mourning the beginning of the mandatory shopping season. Don't care for spending money. Don't really know what to get for people. Wish Christmas could be more about The Savior.)
So glad I'm not mourning anything else. Much rather be celebrating. I'll work on that.
Mourning the absence of my morning walk on the trail. Due to seasonal pollution in the air that I wish to remain in the air and not reside in my lungs, I exercised indoors.
Mourning the soon-to-be-end of another two week free Sirius radio on my car. I refuse to pay for it, don't need it, only put 3500 miles a year on my car so it would be a waste. But periodically they run one of these trial periods to entice me to part with some cash and so for a short time, I again enjoy the satellite radio.
Mourning the end of a holiday week and the need to get back into a routine. (Not really, just felt like I needed to add another thing to the list. But sort of mourning the beginning of the mandatory shopping season. Don't care for spending money. Don't really know what to get for people. Wish Christmas could be more about The Savior.)
So glad I'm not mourning anything else. Much rather be celebrating. I'll work on that.
Foot Bliss
Decided to walk the trail yesterday morning. Opted to wear my newest shoes - ones I bought with a coupon I had from DSW for my birthday. (I had tried these shoes on in Reno when we were there and loved them, but needed a half size bigger that they didn't have in stock.)
They've been in my closet ever since. My most worn walkers are...well...worn out. My other pair that I bought thinking they were going to be great give me blisters no matter what socks I wear or how much athletic tape I put on my feet. They're comfy, but not when I have blisters. (Recommended replacement is every 300-400 miles, and these have nowhere near that, more like 100 miles.)
Not only are these newest ones comfy and supportive for my arthritic foot, but I love the grey and purple! The soles even have an artistic touch of bright yellow (I'm guessing that when the yellow disappears it must be time for new shoes.)
So my shout out today is to DSW - thanks for the coupon for $20 off my shoes. I could walk all day in them.
(Next pair I think I'll try Saucony - that is if I can get a good deal. But that's a few hundred miles off yet.)
They've been in my closet ever since. My most worn walkers are...well...worn out. My other pair that I bought thinking they were going to be great give me blisters no matter what socks I wear or how much athletic tape I put on my feet. They're comfy, but not when I have blisters. (Recommended replacement is every 300-400 miles, and these have nowhere near that, more like 100 miles.)
So my shout out today is to DSW - thanks for the coupon for $20 off my shoes. I could walk all day in them.
(Next pair I think I'll try Saucony - that is if I can get a good deal. But that's a few hundred miles off yet.)
Mostly My Enemy, Rarely My Friend
Although I really didn't eat much yesterday, it was the kind of thing I ate that wasn't exactly a good thing. When I stop to think about the things that are usually included in Thanksgiving dinner (mashed potatoes, stuffing, rolls, candied yams, pie - or in our case a family favorite fresh apple cake- fruit salad, cheese ball with crackers) the meal seems to be heavily loaded on the carb side. All things guaranteed to cause instant weight gain the second they pass your lips.
I did have a small helping of potatoes (had to have a reason to have the gravy), passed on the roll, had about 6 crackers and thoroughly enjoyed the cake. Neither The Husband or I eat as much as we used to. Which is why it is all the more baffling that whatever we eat shows up in the increasing numbers on my handy bathroom scale. And I confess, I had 3 pieces of fudge, but really only small pieces.
So, this scale that sits in a corner of our bathroom taunting me will be lonely for a few days. I'm NOT getting on it. Not for awhile. No sir, no way. Perhaps in June.
Heartfull of Gratitude for All Things
On this Thanksgiving day I love this quote I read by Cicero:
"Gratitude is not only the greatest of virtues, but the parent of all the others."
After the big feast and later dessert and a movie, The Husband built a fire in the chiminea. We sat and chatted and roasted marshmallows (yes, in our coats) and watched the moon and stars until the fire died down to nothing but embers. One of my most favorite Thanksgiving evenings. Perhaps we'll start a new tradition. Or are we too old for that?
(Isn't that a fabulous hat our son is wearing? He crocheted it himself using wool yarn. Kept his head toasty warm!)
"Gratitude is not only the greatest of virtues, but the parent of all the others."
After the big feast and later dessert and a movie, The Husband built a fire in the chiminea. We sat and chatted and roasted marshmallows (yes, in our coats) and watched the moon and stars until the fire died down to nothing but embers. One of my most favorite Thanksgiving evenings. Perhaps we'll start a new tradition. Or are we too old for that?
(Isn't that a fabulous hat our son is wearing? He crocheted it himself using wool yarn. Kept his head toasty warm!)
I Am So Weird
It's become quite the thing how I dislike white bread. It tastes to me like I'm eating flour. I love the depth of flavor and texture in the whole wheat bread. Thus, I whine about hamburgers with their "white bread buns" and sandwiches and dinner rolls.
The Husband, on the other hand is quite fond of that fluffy white stuff. So we agree to disagree on the issue of bread.
However, I love crackers! Including these and many others: goldfish ('cept for those flavor-blasted ones - they have onions and garlic) and graham crackers, saltines...it seems like if it is a cracker of any kind, then I love it.
And what are crackers made of? Yep, white flour. I am totally weird.
And I'm fond of creamy (never crunchy) peanut butter, fudge without nuts, real maple syrup and whole milk.
On a funnier note: I received a gift card to Jamba Juice - one of my favorite treats. Decided to splurge tonight. Used the gift card and had my suspicions confirmed: the card was a re-gift. It had (before our purchase) $10.37 on it. Nice to know I'm so important. :^)
The Husband, on the other hand is quite fond of that fluffy white stuff. So we agree to disagree on the issue of bread.
And what are crackers made of? Yep, white flour. I am totally weird.
And I'm fond of creamy (never crunchy) peanut butter, fudge without nuts, real maple syrup and whole milk.
On a funnier note: I received a gift card to Jamba Juice - one of my favorite treats. Decided to splurge tonight. Used the gift card and had my suspicions confirmed: the card was a re-gift. It had (before our purchase) $10.37 on it. Nice to know I'm so important. :^)
Neighbors
I answered the phone to find the 9 year old next door neighbor on the other end telling me she and her 7 year old sister had arrived home from school to an empty house. They don't like empty houses. Do you need to come over? I said. The answer was a prompt and succinct: yes.
So over they came. We sat out in the breezy sunshine and chattered away. I learned some of their likes and dislikes, their talents and what hopes they have from Santa for Christmas.
What a pleasant diversion while The Husband was away for a couple hours. And how grateful I am that they chose to call me - their grandmother lives just around the corner and down a house. Made me feel particularly worthy.
Randomness
I continue to be privately amused at the conversations I overhear between small children and their mothers at the grocery. Today's comment was by a young'un (about 5) who told her mother things went so much better when they worked as a team. (I can just picture the original lesson where she learned this....perhaps picking up toys?)
Was so pleased at the "at-a-boy" The Husband received via a third party. I hope that third party understands how important it is to receive kind words said about yourself when you're not there to hear them. Kudos to him for his thoughtful relaying of those words.
As I was heading out this morning I expressed to Heavenly Father in my prayer my desire to travel the freeways safe from accident and windshield rock chips. (We spent some time on Saturday having one fixed on The Husband's car.) What an instant answer I had as I ended up (both directions) spending a fair amount of my trek down the freeway traveling at an average of 5 mph. Indeed, an unequivocal answer.
I've been ticking off in my mind things to be grateful for - amidst the "doom and gloom" that is so prevalent on the news. So it was with interest I read this quote this morning: "The sun will not rise or set without my notice and thanks." - Winslow Homer Yes: thanks for not only the beauty of the passing of the sun through the heavens, but also the knowledge that tomorrow is another chance to get things right.
Was so pleased at the "at-a-boy" The Husband received via a third party. I hope that third party understands how important it is to receive kind words said about yourself when you're not there to hear them. Kudos to him for his thoughtful relaying of those words.
As I was heading out this morning I expressed to Heavenly Father in my prayer my desire to travel the freeways safe from accident and windshield rock chips. (We spent some time on Saturday having one fixed on The Husband's car.) What an instant answer I had as I ended up (both directions) spending a fair amount of my trek down the freeway traveling at an average of 5 mph. Indeed, an unequivocal answer.
I've been ticking off in my mind things to be grateful for - amidst the "doom and gloom" that is so prevalent on the news. So it was with interest I read this quote this morning: "The sun will not rise or set without my notice and thanks." - Winslow Homer Yes: thanks for not only the beauty of the passing of the sun through the heavens, but also the knowledge that tomorrow is another chance to get things right.
Yet Another Tree
Yesterday morning The Husband accompanied me on my walk. I've missed being out on the trail this week with so much going on - my route is about 5.25 miles and takes a bit of time. Walking it is a luxury that I don't always allow myself.
It was such fun to have my best friend along. I don't recall that we talked much of anything particular, just walked along, enjoyed the sunrise and the crisp morning air and lavished a bit of time and attention on each other. He is such a good sport and ever the optimist, even though he had a somewhat emotionally wrenching day ahead of him saying goodbye to the chapter that encompassed the last five and a half years of our lives.
I snapped several shots of this tree. We both noticed it about the same time. Without its leaves the framework is a pretty sight all on its own. It wasn't easy to find a shot that captured the beauty of the tree without also capturing the surrounding fences and houses. I do seem to take a lot of pictures of trees. They have all been particularly eye-catching this year.
Here's hoping the framework that holds together my soul also has its own special beauty to discern. And that someone cares enough to look hard enough to discern it.
It was such fun to have my best friend along. I don't recall that we talked much of anything particular, just walked along, enjoyed the sunrise and the crisp morning air and lavished a bit of time and attention on each other. He is such a good sport and ever the optimist, even though he had a somewhat emotionally wrenching day ahead of him saying goodbye to the chapter that encompassed the last five and a half years of our lives.
Here's hoping the framework that holds together my soul also has its own special beauty to discern. And that someone cares enough to look hard enough to discern it.
Odd Friday
The Husband spent most of the day wiping the hard drives on the computers and getting them ready to send back to the Mother Ship. Not a usual thing.
The good thing, though, is how clean his desk looks and how spacious it feels.
I spent the day helping at a funeral - playing both the organ and the piano and then spending the rest of the time in the kitchen. Again, not a usual thing.
The good thing - I managed to only make one mistake on the piano. And we had plenty of food.
Found out that my next door neighbor has breast cancer. She's in her 40's I'd guess, daughters 12 and 10. A thing I hope never becomes "usual."
Hard to find a good thing about that.
I imagine most days for awhile will feel odd. That unsettled, uneasy feeling that isn't my favorite.
The good thing: I heard from one of the grandchilluns via email. Brightened my day.
The good thing, though, is how clean his desk looks and how spacious it feels.
I spent the day helping at a funeral - playing both the organ and the piano and then spending the rest of the time in the kitchen. Again, not a usual thing.
The good thing - I managed to only make one mistake on the piano. And we had plenty of food.
Found out that my next door neighbor has breast cancer. She's in her 40's I'd guess, daughters 12 and 10. A thing I hope never becomes "usual."
Hard to find a good thing about that.
I imagine most days for awhile will feel odd. That unsettled, uneasy feeling that isn't my favorite.
The good thing: I heard from one of the grandchilluns via email. Brightened my day.
Quote
I loved this quote I ran across:
"There is always music amongst the trees in the garden, but our hearts must be very quiet to hear it."
--Minnie Aumonier
By extension - there is always something beautiful to experience in life, if we allow ourselves to find it. Perhaps my heart is quiet enough to find those experiences. I'm listening for the music.
"There is always music amongst the trees in the garden, but our hearts must be very quiet to hear it."
--Minnie Aumonier
By extension - there is always something beautiful to experience in life, if we allow ourselves to find it. Perhaps my heart is quiet enough to find those experiences. I'm listening for the music.
Tuesday's Cogitations
I never thought I'd be a "blogger." Never considered myself a writer or that I had anything to say that would be of any value to another. Then, on a whim, I decided to start a blog and note things that processed through my brain. One of my (mostly fulfilled) intentions was to be positive in my words.
Because of that hope, I have, on occasion kept my thoughts to myself- not posted on this forum. I really don't want to come across as a Negative Nellie.
Yesterday we got the final word: The Husband no longer has a job with the Mother Ship. When he was hired we viewed it as one of those larger-than-tender-mercies-felt-like-almost-a-miracle-occurrences. He has loved his five and a half years with the company. He was hired to be a remote employee and we have loved the experience of having him work from home. But...the parameters have changed and they no longer want any remote employees.
The result: pretty soon we'll be tapping into the unemployment fund.
Another result is the fog we feel with our emotions ranging from anger to hurt to wanting to throw a tantrum to gratitude that The Husband was able to work from home as long as he did. Also a bit of trepidation as to what the future is going to bring for us. The job market isn't great for 61 year old men regardless of their broad range of experience. The housing market isn't conducive to a quick sale on a house we have absolutely no desire to sell. We will no longer have health insurance. The bank account doesn't hold enough for retirement. And the heart doesn't want to have to deal with any of it.
On the upside: we have learned we can have a dog and soda at Costco for the two of us for $3 + tax. On Tuesdays we can have a Sonic cheeseburger for $1.19 + tax and I'll be picking up some fresh yeast at the grocery and sharpening my bread making skills. (Or rather, acquiring some.) Our electric bill will most likely decrease absent those two computers, two monitors and laptop from the company. We can eliminate that "Blast" of extra high-speed internet we've been paying for.
And our hearts are still firmly and inseparably entwined together. We've always been on our own, never really had family support (financial or otherwise). The Husband is an amazingly unselfish hard worker. I know he won't give up until he's figured things out. Together we will endure. Thanks, My Love, for finding me....don't leave without me.
Pity eating (ice cream, cookies, other basically bad for us comfort food) has commenced and will continue until morale improves, or we each gain 50 pounds, whichever comes first. :^)
Because of that hope, I have, on occasion kept my thoughts to myself- not posted on this forum. I really don't want to come across as a Negative Nellie.
Yesterday we got the final word: The Husband no longer has a job with the Mother Ship. When he was hired we viewed it as one of those larger-than-tender-mercies-felt-like-almost-a-miracle-occurrences. He has loved his five and a half years with the company. He was hired to be a remote employee and we have loved the experience of having him work from home. But...the parameters have changed and they no longer want any remote employees.
The result: pretty soon we'll be tapping into the unemployment fund.
Another result is the fog we feel with our emotions ranging from anger to hurt to wanting to throw a tantrum to gratitude that The Husband was able to work from home as long as he did. Also a bit of trepidation as to what the future is going to bring for us. The job market isn't great for 61 year old men regardless of their broad range of experience. The housing market isn't conducive to a quick sale on a house we have absolutely no desire to sell. We will no longer have health insurance. The bank account doesn't hold enough for retirement. And the heart doesn't want to have to deal with any of it.
On the upside: we have learned we can have a dog and soda at Costco for the two of us for $3 + tax. On Tuesdays we can have a Sonic cheeseburger for $1.19 + tax and I'll be picking up some fresh yeast at the grocery and sharpening my bread making skills. (Or rather, acquiring some.) Our electric bill will most likely decrease absent those two computers, two monitors and laptop from the company. We can eliminate that "Blast" of extra high-speed internet we've been paying for.
And our hearts are still firmly and inseparably entwined together. We've always been on our own, never really had family support (financial or otherwise). The Husband is an amazingly unselfish hard worker. I know he won't give up until he's figured things out. Together we will endure. Thanks, My Love, for finding me....don't leave without me.
Pity eating (ice cream, cookies, other basically bad for us comfort food) has commenced and will continue until morale improves, or we each gain 50 pounds, whichever comes first. :^)
Brilliant or Kind?
After a brief discussion this morning, both The Husband and I decided that if we had to make a choice between being brilliant or being kind, we would both choose to be kind.
Kindness wins - and for me - pretty much always.
Kindness wins - and for me - pretty much always.
A Rare Saturday
We don't often have a Saturday that isn't totally "spoken for" as far as our time is concerned. Today was one of those. We slept in, puttered around, fixed a few things, ran a couple non-mandatory errands and actually sort of took our time about it all. Kind of felt good.
We woke up to this view out our stairwell window. (The Husband actually tried to take a picture of this view last night when only the tulip lights were light, it really does catch one's eye at night. Once again, a lesson in how the mind adds so much to what the eye sees, but the camera somehow doesn't.) It was only a couple days ago that those two tri-color beeches were still covered in leaves.
It has snowed most of the day, enough to shovel and keep the temperatures low. The furnace has been running seemingly non-stop. It is, after all, November; I guess we should get used to it.
It isn't often that I can introduce The Husband to something new, whether it be an experience or a place. So, when I can, I consider it somewhat of a coup. I managed to do that today. We stopped in at Costco for a polish dog (he had his with sauerkraut) and a chocolate frozen yogurt. The two of us ate for less than $5. What a deal! We may be having more of those Costco meals as we find ourselves working hard at stretching those limited pennies.
It has snowed most of the day, enough to shovel and keep the temperatures low. The furnace has been running seemingly non-stop. It is, after all, November; I guess we should get used to it.
It isn't often that I can introduce The Husband to something new, whether it be an experience or a place. So, when I can, I consider it somewhat of a coup. I managed to do that today. We stopped in at Costco for a polish dog (he had his with sauerkraut) and a chocolate frozen yogurt. The two of us ate for less than $5. What a deal! We may be having more of those Costco meals as we find ourselves working hard at stretching those limited pennies.
Civility
I've been thinking about this a lot. Last night we attended a meeting of the Draper City Planning Commission. To call it civil would be an overstatement.
I was fairly upset by the behavior that I saw there. As was my husband and a member of the Armed Forces that we also spoke to afterwards. We didn't really speak to anyone else.
And the tyrannical behavior wasn't by the people in attendance. It was by the person in charge. Rarely have I seen an adult treat another with the complete disdain and total lack of even the most basic common courtesy as I witnessed last night.
All day long I've wondered why some people think it is ok to treat another so rudely and with such arrogance and condescension. I have not a doubt that this man would simply not tolerate such treatment were it directed at him. Yet, somehow he finds it appropriate to act with the maturity of a young teenager.
This man is responsible for maintaining an appropriate, professional and respectful atmosphere in the meeting. Does that make him exempt from even the simplest acts of courtesy? (Who will police the police?) Apparently he thinks it does, his actions spoke volumes as to what in my opinion his character must be. And today I find that he is himself an attorney. Someone who surely is aware of proper courtroom (meeting) demeanor.
I've commented often in the last couple years that people seem to be on edge. The unkindness that we witnessed last night was only the tip of the iceberg - from co-workers to people driving on the streets, to other citizens of the city (the other night our daughter was stopped by a policeman because the lights over her rear license plate were burned out. Seriously? Nothing better to do? And who would even know that was the situation - you can't see the back of your car when you're driving, the only time that would be evident.) to even fellow church members. It makes me so sad and discouraged.
And yes, I think I'm also on edge. I'm weary of mistreatment of people because of hidden agendas or selfishness/laziness. Not a good place to be heading into the Christmas season - the season of brotherly love, etc.
On a different note: we woke up to hail this morning. Generally a hailstorm will last 5 or ten minutes. Not so today. It went on for the amount of time it took me to get up and dressed and halfway through my hour on the treadmill. The Husband kindly took this picture right at the beginning of the storm. This hollyhock had lots more hail in it's leaves later on.
It has continued to snow the entire day. Winter has come. We went straight from summer / Indian summer (yesterday's high was 68 degrees) to winter - todays high was only in the upper 30's.
And in spite of all the grim-ness we seem to be seeing / feeling, I'm grateful tonight for a snug warm house. And hoping for a reduction of discouragement in the days. to come. Wish me luck.
I was fairly upset by the behavior that I saw there. As was my husband and a member of the Armed Forces that we also spoke to afterwards. We didn't really speak to anyone else.
And the tyrannical behavior wasn't by the people in attendance. It was by the person in charge. Rarely have I seen an adult treat another with the complete disdain and total lack of even the most basic common courtesy as I witnessed last night.
All day long I've wondered why some people think it is ok to treat another so rudely and with such arrogance and condescension. I have not a doubt that this man would simply not tolerate such treatment were it directed at him. Yet, somehow he finds it appropriate to act with the maturity of a young teenager.
This man is responsible for maintaining an appropriate, professional and respectful atmosphere in the meeting. Does that make him exempt from even the simplest acts of courtesy? (Who will police the police?) Apparently he thinks it does, his actions spoke volumes as to what in my opinion his character must be. And today I find that he is himself an attorney. Someone who surely is aware of proper courtroom (meeting) demeanor.
I've commented often in the last couple years that people seem to be on edge. The unkindness that we witnessed last night was only the tip of the iceberg - from co-workers to people driving on the streets, to other citizens of the city (the other night our daughter was stopped by a policeman because the lights over her rear license plate were burned out. Seriously? Nothing better to do? And who would even know that was the situation - you can't see the back of your car when you're driving, the only time that would be evident.) to even fellow church members. It makes me so sad and discouraged.
And yes, I think I'm also on edge. I'm weary of mistreatment of people because of hidden agendas or selfishness/laziness. Not a good place to be heading into the Christmas season - the season of brotherly love, etc.
On a different note: we woke up to hail this morning. Generally a hailstorm will last 5 or ten minutes. Not so today. It went on for the amount of time it took me to get up and dressed and halfway through my hour on the treadmill. The Husband kindly took this picture right at the beginning of the storm. This hollyhock had lots more hail in it's leaves later on.
And in spite of all the grim-ness we seem to be seeing / feeling, I'm grateful tonight for a snug warm house. And hoping for a reduction of discouragement in the days. to come. Wish me luck.
Decal
I had my Rav4 for almost 6 years. I really liked that little thing. I was sad when they lengthened it, it lost some of its charm for me.
I had a little decal in the back window. A friend of mine was always teasing me: "that's such a Utah thing", she said. I'm not so sure; I've seen all kinds of those car window decals everywhere we've gone - CA, NC, SC and FL among others. When I relinquished the Rav4 in favor of the Prius I lost my decal.
Today, The Husband applied the latest personalization to my car. Aren't they cute? And they're doing one of my favorite things - holding hands!
I found myself smiling (like that quote: when you smile and no one can see, you must really mean it) when I came out of the store today and saw them waving to me as I approached the car. Fun!
We stopped in tonight at the new Scheel's here in town. It's been open over a month and we're just now taking a gander. Big store. Good gelato. (Still doing that emotional eating thing.) Next time, we're plunking down our $3 and trying the bowling.
I had a little decal in the back window. A friend of mine was always teasing me: "that's such a Utah thing", she said. I'm not so sure; I've seen all kinds of those car window decals everywhere we've gone - CA, NC, SC and FL among others. When I relinquished the Rav4 in favor of the Prius I lost my decal.
I found myself smiling (like that quote: when you smile and no one can see, you must really mean it) when I came out of the store today and saw them waving to me as I approached the car. Fun!
We stopped in tonight at the new Scheel's here in town. It's been open over a month and we're just now taking a gander. Big store. Good gelato. (Still doing that emotional eating thing.) Next time, we're plunking down our $3 and trying the bowling.
Is It Really November?
I've never been fond of what we typically think of as fall colors: rusts, oranges, browns. The reasons aren't really anything I can quantify, it is just sort of a visceral negative reaction to those colors. (I'm always a bit surprised that I can feel so strongly about colors - like or dislike, almost bordering on love and hate.)
I do, however love yellow in almost all its variations.
I managed to get back out on the trail this morning (probably the last for awhile considering how many books I have to read, better get busy on that) and loved my immersion in the fall colors.
This yard bordering the trail has a row of about 5 or 6 globe willows that are in the midst of their fall leaf shedding. It was so pretty in the sunrise (my very favorite light of the day) with the grass still green underneath the blanket of yellow leaves. (Still longing for a zoom on the phone camera.)
It was 72 degrees out today, bare hint of a breeze and I'm wondering if it is really November considering the weather.
I did finally succumb and turn on the furnaces, although they have hardly kicked on. I managed to get pretty much to Halloween (my annual-first-time-for-turning-on-the-furnaces-goal) before futzing with the thermostat so I'm content.
I do, however love yellow in almost all its variations.
I managed to get back out on the trail this morning (probably the last for awhile considering how many books I have to read, better get busy on that) and loved my immersion in the fall colors.
This yard bordering the trail has a row of about 5 or 6 globe willows that are in the midst of their fall leaf shedding. It was so pretty in the sunrise (my very favorite light of the day) with the grass still green underneath the blanket of yellow leaves. (Still longing for a zoom on the phone camera.)
It was 72 degrees out today, bare hint of a breeze and I'm wondering if it is really November considering the weather.
I did finally succumb and turn on the furnaces, although they have hardly kicked on. I managed to get pretty much to Halloween (my annual-first-time-for-turning-on-the-furnaces-goal) before futzing with the thermostat so I'm content.
"Life Is Good"
We saw this line of clothing (and now other items, too) years ago, the first time we went back to Sunset Beach. I was so taken by the whole line. I love their quality and their look.
I love this sweatshirt so much I've nearly worn it out. It is the prettiest light aqua color, with a cute feminine floral lining in the hood. The fabric is quite soft and fun to wear.
And today: I really needed this constant reminder that Life Is Good.
I really do know that. But sometimes I just need a reminder. And I was very conscious all day long about wearing that slogan on my front. Need to wear it in my mind, too.
Tonight we went over to our polling place to help set up for tomorrow. The poll manager's wife (MRS. Poll Manager) will take a measure of patience to deal with. I'm not very good with her personality type, it tends to bring out the feisty in me and that's not a good thing. Bringing out the feisty usually coincides with pushing away good manners and kindness and I don't like that part of me.
So...forewarned is forearmed. I shall endeavor to be very careful about how I let her affect me. I may come home with a nearly severed tongue. But I will try.
Truth Is Often Stranger Than Fiction
And today we had an example of that.
Since we now have a good spot for a garden, The Husband has been immersed in planning it out. He likes the raised bed gardening and after some research settled on vinyl fencing parts.
Alas, the particular pieces he wants to use have been elusive. He's looked everywhere. Every time we enter an establishment that sells vinyl fencing he has to thoroughly inventory the selection to see if they have what he wants.
Today we entered our friendly Home Depot. Behold - a cart sitting in the middle of the aisle with exactly the pieces he needs. Inquiring, we were informed of this situation: Some unknown persons brought these vinyl fencing pieces in to this Home Depot, with Home Depot tags on them, attempting to return the pieces for cash. When revealed as a scammer (Home Depot doesn't carry those particular pieces of vinyl, they are not in their inventory at all) the scammer left the vinyl and the store.
Home Depot is now faced with having to somehow handle this stuff it can't sell because there isn't any way to mark it for sale, account for it in inventory, or even figure out how to charge for it. It is finally slated to be chopped up and thrown away.
After some negotiation, and a voluntary phone call to a supervisor, we ended up taking this whole stack of vinyl pieces/parts home for free!!! (Of course, Home Depot came out ahead because we spent $23 renting one of their trucks to transport the vinyl to our home, but that wasn't part of the agenda when we were offered the fencing for free.)
What are the odds of us walking in to the Home Depot on the very day that the vinyl we needed was there? Seriously, that kind of thing pretty much never happens to us.
In light of the fact that we're still trying to wrap our heads around the grim-ness of yesterday we choose to look at this as one of those "tender mercies" that on occasion come our way. To lift us, to encourage us, to encircle us in hope. It does happen, though not often. And usually at the very most important time.
Tonight my thoughts include those of gratitude for tender mercies.
Since we now have a good spot for a garden, The Husband has been immersed in planning it out. He likes the raised bed gardening and after some research settled on vinyl fencing parts.
Alas, the particular pieces he wants to use have been elusive. He's looked everywhere. Every time we enter an establishment that sells vinyl fencing he has to thoroughly inventory the selection to see if they have what he wants.
Today we entered our friendly Home Depot. Behold - a cart sitting in the middle of the aisle with exactly the pieces he needs. Inquiring, we were informed of this situation: Some unknown persons brought these vinyl fencing pieces in to this Home Depot, with Home Depot tags on them, attempting to return the pieces for cash. When revealed as a scammer (Home Depot doesn't carry those particular pieces of vinyl, they are not in their inventory at all) the scammer left the vinyl and the store.
Home Depot is now faced with having to somehow handle this stuff it can't sell because there isn't any way to mark it for sale, account for it in inventory, or even figure out how to charge for it. It is finally slated to be chopped up and thrown away.
After some negotiation, and a voluntary phone call to a supervisor, we ended up taking this whole stack of vinyl pieces/parts home for free!!! (Of course, Home Depot came out ahead because we spent $23 renting one of their trucks to transport the vinyl to our home, but that wasn't part of the agenda when we were offered the fencing for free.)
What are the odds of us walking in to the Home Depot on the very day that the vinyl we needed was there? Seriously, that kind of thing pretty much never happens to us.
In light of the fact that we're still trying to wrap our heads around the grim-ness of yesterday we choose to look at this as one of those "tender mercies" that on occasion come our way. To lift us, to encourage us, to encircle us in hope. It does happen, though not often. And usually at the very most important time.
Tonight my thoughts include those of gratitude for tender mercies.
Long Post
Ok, this will be a long post, I have lots of thoughts circling my brain. (And please, if there is a reader out there that loves halloween, just skip this post. My intent is to express myself - not offend.)
This morning I watched a lengthy news report on tv. The purpose: to enlighten and assist parents in handling the abundance (or even over-abundance) of halloween candy from the trick-or-treating last night.
Here's the scenario: We (meaning the general U.S. public) spend inordinate amounts of money on costumes and candy. Then we take our children out, and teach them to go door-to-door asking for candy and goodies. Then we bemoan their behavior from the sugar high as well as make them share or give up their candy for money. (After we've taught them it's ok to beg for it.) Sometimes parents even drive their children to seemingly more affluent neighborhoods so as to increase the quantity and quality of the treats.
Am I the only one that sees the problem here? Not much integrity or consistency in moral values that I can see.
I struggled mightily with this when our children were in those trick-or-treating days. Now I'm a confirmed non-supporter of this tradition. It is my belief that the way we celebrate this holiday (and I'm not sure it really qualifies as a holiday) is not only misguided but counterproductive.
After the trick-or-treaters dwindled to nothing last night we put on a tv show. We're not much for sit-coms around here. For my taste, they're generally filled with too much unkindness and disloyalty - dressed up as something funny - that leaves me cold. It tries to make it attractive to treat other people, including family with disrespect and sarcasm presenting those behaviors as the way things should be. I'm not a fan.
But, the show we were watching last night (a crime-drama) impressed me. There were several instances of conflict in the show that I saw resolved really well. Now, I come from a family of shouters. My upbringing consisted of lots of yelling and condemnation. I've found as I've gotten older how little I can handle that kind of thing. I noticed in the show last night the total absence of raised voices. I noticed - even when angry - the characters stated their case without insults or recrimination. One of the reasons we watch this show is because it shows a family of four generations that seem to really enjoy each other and whose loyalty to one another is never questioned.
I so like that they manage to portray the resolution of issues without aggression. Last night it was even openly expressed that the best way to solve things is by using your brain. I like that. (Now I need to figure out how to use my brain.) Communication is essential to this. Deception is not.
Ok, venting done. Tonight we're off to Hale Theatre for the play "Oliver". Musicals generally do wonders for me. I'm already singing "As Long As He Needs Me" in my head. It will be a good antidote to the grumpiness induced by last night's activity.
This morning I watched a lengthy news report on tv. The purpose: to enlighten and assist parents in handling the abundance (or even over-abundance) of halloween candy from the trick-or-treating last night.
Here's the scenario: We (meaning the general U.S. public) spend inordinate amounts of money on costumes and candy. Then we take our children out, and teach them to go door-to-door asking for candy and goodies. Then we bemoan their behavior from the sugar high as well as make them share or give up their candy for money. (After we've taught them it's ok to beg for it.) Sometimes parents even drive their children to seemingly more affluent neighborhoods so as to increase the quantity and quality of the treats.
Am I the only one that sees the problem here? Not much integrity or consistency in moral values that I can see.
I struggled mightily with this when our children were in those trick-or-treating days. Now I'm a confirmed non-supporter of this tradition. It is my belief that the way we celebrate this holiday (and I'm not sure it really qualifies as a holiday) is not only misguided but counterproductive.
After the trick-or-treaters dwindled to nothing last night we put on a tv show. We're not much for sit-coms around here. For my taste, they're generally filled with too much unkindness and disloyalty - dressed up as something funny - that leaves me cold. It tries to make it attractive to treat other people, including family with disrespect and sarcasm presenting those behaviors as the way things should be. I'm not a fan.
But, the show we were watching last night (a crime-drama) impressed me. There were several instances of conflict in the show that I saw resolved really well. Now, I come from a family of shouters. My upbringing consisted of lots of yelling and condemnation. I've found as I've gotten older how little I can handle that kind of thing. I noticed in the show last night the total absence of raised voices. I noticed - even when angry - the characters stated their case without insults or recrimination. One of the reasons we watch this show is because it shows a family of four generations that seem to really enjoy each other and whose loyalty to one another is never questioned.
I so like that they manage to portray the resolution of issues without aggression. Last night it was even openly expressed that the best way to solve things is by using your brain. I like that. (Now I need to figure out how to use my brain.) Communication is essential to this. Deception is not.
Ok, venting done. Tonight we're off to Hale Theatre for the play "Oliver". Musicals generally do wonders for me. I'm already singing "As Long As He Needs Me" in my head. It will be a good antidote to the grumpiness induced by last night's activity.
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