Wild Week

It was a crazy week at work! I felt like a hamster on the wheel, going fast, but getting no where. At one point I said I was so in the weeds that I needed to go get my weedwacker!

Yesterday we had a going away party for someone in our office that transferred back to one of our hotels. After a little celebrating at one of our fine establishments, we moved the party to the Post Bar in Dearborn. Not too bad . . . wish they were around when I was in college. The thing that ticked me off is that Dearborn has changed all their public parking lots to private lots for a $$$. Now I wasn't out very long (I was on a deadline), and it only cost me $0.50, but it was the principle of it!

Went to the hair salon today. My one hairdresser is doing much better, so thank you for the prayers. Anyway, I wanted to get a little color and came home with a lot of color! Lets just say I look a lot different! When I came home, Elijah asked me what happened!

Finished Econ and got an A-. Not too shabby, but I little miffed that both econ classes costed me my 4.0 GPA! Oh well. The new class has started - Financial Reporting and Analysis. After Monday, I'll be off for a week thanks to the holiday! 4 to go counting this one!

2 Days!

Just two days left and this Econ class is OVER! I have to admit that neither econ class have been enjoyable and both have destroyed by 4.0 GPA! Next up is an accounting class. I sure hope this is the right thing to do!

Elijah went to see the Easter Bunny today. He asked him for superhero toys. Later he asked me why the bunny was wearing glasses. I replied that he must have cut back on his carrots!

We've got a birthday party to go to tomorrow. Happy Birthday Kiara! We can't wait to celebrate tomorrow!

Enjoy the rest of your weekend!

We Miss You Gary!

If you didn't know, today is Gary's birthday. I found this poem online and thought I would share:

Birthdays Do Not End with Death
Birthdays do not end with death,
But last as long as love,
A maelstrom of memories
That grace and honor move.

And so we celebrate your day
By visiting your grave,
A place that you have left long since,
But is all that we have.

Dear spirit, come and join us here,
Your loved ones by your stone!
Come sweep across the barrier
To claim us as your own!

Happy birthday, dearest one!
Oh, happy, happy day!
Not even the most bitter night
Can take this joy away!

Let the Birthday Celebrations Begin!

Lots of birthdays coming/going.

My cousin Scott 3/15
Patrick (friend from work) 3/17 (St. Patrick . . . get it!?)
Gary 3/20
Jenny (Gary's niece) 3/21
Uncle Chuck 3/22
JAS 3/23
Kiara 3/24
Becky (friend I used to work with) 3/27

Seems like I've encountered someone who is 3/19, but I can't remember who they are . . .

Now if I can find some birthdays on 3/16, 3/18, 3/19, 3/25, & 3/26, we could have a really good stretch of partying!

Happy Birthday everyone!

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

Happy St. Patrick's Day! If you're Irish, I hope you are having a great day. If you want to pretend to be Irish, have fun playing! :-)

When Elijah realized it was St. Paddy's Day, he said he needed to find the leprechaun because he wanted a pot of gold!

How Much?

On Thursday I was driving to work and my "check gages" light came on, I looked down and the temperature was approaching 260! I'm on the freeway and I'm wondering when I should panic. Then, just as fast as it came on, it went off.

After work, I'm driving home and it does it again, and again, and again, and again. After the fifth time, (on a 30 minute drive), I thinking that I don't want to be driving this car. So, I take it to the dealership. They say I probably need antifreeze, so I tell them to go ahead and do an oil change too. No big deal!

Well, it was a big deal. Come to find out there's a problem with the radiator and the water pump. And when they were getting ready to do the oil change, they noticed a leak, something else, yadda, yadda, and before I knew it, they're quoting me $1,600! WTF?! I ended up checking around and eventually told them to go ahead and do it (I did ponder just getting another car, but it's so nice to not have a car payment).

The classic was when the work was done. I called the cashier to give her a credit card over the phone. She asks if she can call me back. She calls back and leaves me a voice mail that they can't take a cc over the phone. WHAT?! I've only done it four or five times before. Not to mention my car in in Plymouth and I'm in Bingham Farms and I happen to be working later than the dealership is open. I call and ask for the manager. After professionally reading him the riot act-- How many times I've done this. I wasn't told in advance. I'm not in a position where I can get there before it closes. Due to the amount of the services I can't ask someone to cover it and I'll pay them back, that there is a Jeep dealership two blocks from my work and I can give them my business . . . he made an exception! But not before telling me that they are doing this because people were disputing their charges. Then fax them and authorization form! I also pointed out that I've done this before and I haven't disputed charges! Unbelievable!

So, I picked up the car. Haven't been in it much yet, but it had better purr like a kitten after dropping those $$$!

I Want My Hour Back!

I don't know about you, but I'm missing that hour that was taken away from me on Sunday! I can't seem to get the right amount of sleep and as the week goes on, I'm getting more and more crabby!

This last weekend was busy with parties - Sunday we started with a bowling party and ended with a swimming party!

Yesterday was a beautiful day and got me excited about Spring. I cannot wait for the warm weather to stay! Bring it on!

Less than two weeks left of Econ. Thank goodness! I have not enjoyed the class as much as I hoped I would. I got my book today for the next class. It's the hernia edition (big, thick, heavy book that will probably give me a hernia), so I can't wait to see the syllabus!

I was going through some stuff and found a song that Gary wrote for me on our last vacation. He never shared it with me, so I had no idea that it even existed until after he was gone. I haven't read it in awhile, so of course I was sobbing as I read it today. I still can't believe how long he has been gone, and how much I still miss him.

Not much else is going on. Busy at work. I feel like it's January based on the volume. The only way I can describe it to you is to compare it to drinking water out of a fire hose! Crazy stuff!

I've been working on improving this site. Scroll to the bottom for a surprise!

The New Belt

Elijah took his belt test today! The new belt is white with a long green stripe. He can't wait to wear it to class next week! Happy Saturday!

Bring on Spring!

This week was interrupted with a cold/flu/sinus thing. I was miserable the last few days. I'm starting to feel better, but I still have the cough. We all know that can linger on for awhile. All I know is that I'm ready for some Spring weather and some sunshine!

The weekend will be busy - Elijah is belt testing tomorrow and he has two birthday parties Sunday. We were also supposed to go see a Disney show at the Fischer Theatre, but it was canceled. They were nice enough to credit me for the tickets, but I lost the $4.25 per ticket service fee that Ticketmaster charges. Nice! They could have at least offered me a credit on my next purchase, but no. Remember that whenever you are buying tickets from Ticketmaster.

Enjoy your weekend!

Prayers Needed

One of my hair stylists had a gallbladder attack a week after I did. He's still in the hospital! His was infected and I guess the infection spread. Long story short, this poor guy has had 5 surgeries in the last five weeks. I feel so bad for him and his partner. If you could please say a prayer for him, his name is Ron. Thank you!

Happy Birthday Leslie & Andrew!

Happy Birthday to my sister-in-law Leslie (it was yesterday, along with Dr. Seuss), and Andrew who becomes a teenager today! I hope both of you get everything you wish for!

Tired

Just before my surgery, my blood work showed that my liver was jacked -- like when you have mono. All I know is that that I have been so tired lately and I'm not sure if it's because of that or readjusting to working 50 hours, school, parenthood, etc.

Econ is going okay. The professor seems to be better than my first impression. I'm having some motivation issues, but I'm trying to work it out. I'm doing a team project on the airlines. I have to admit that I'm learning more than I thought I would. Kind of makes me want to try some of the other airlines besides NWA! 4 classes after this. I am so excited!

Happy Birthday Madison!

Happy Birthday to Gary's niece Madison! I hope your day was great. She's Elijah's play buddy and he can't wait to come over to celebrate her birthday!

Tis the season for birthdays, so more to follow in March . . .

Happy Birthday Bobbie and Nikki!

Happy Birthday to two of my cousins: Bobbie and Nikki. They are on different sides of my family, but share the same day. Sorry I'm a day late, but I hope you both had great birthdays!

Back to Reality

I survived my first week back to work. In some ways it seemed like a long week and in other ways it went fast. After sorting through about 300 emails, I found myself feeling like I never left. I'm very tired and can't wait to sleep in tomorrow.

Elijah had picture day this week. The big thing is that they took pictures in a cap and gown! I can't wait to see them!

Other than that, not much is new . . . have a nice weekend!

It's the Weekend!

Well, it's my last weekend before returning to work on Monday. I'll be doing homework and trying to adjust my schedule back to normal.

Not much else has been going on. Just trying to do homework and catch up on household chores such as laundry and cleaning.

Enjoy your weekend!

1 More Down and 5 To Go!

I finished Statistics! I am soooooo excited about it. I also got an A - a true miracle! Today starts Applied Economics. This will be the last class before I go into the concentration area of my MBA! I can't believe only 5 classes are left!

I went to the doctor yesterday for my post-op check up. I guess one of my gallstones was 1 inch! Yikes! That would explain why during my attack I had an actual flashback to when I was in labor with Elijah! I'm feeling better each day!

Great News!

I just got a letter in the mail that Elijah has been accepted to catholic school! It's the school that is apart of the new parish we joined last May. I've really missed my old church, but I'm so excited that Elijah was accepted to this school! We went on a tour a couple of weeks ago and seemed to like it! Yippee!

One year later

It was a year ago that my sister-in-law lost her battle with breast cancer. Although we were not close when she passed, we have a long history together that dates back to junior high school (most now call it middle school). I wish we could have had that last conversation, but I will always remember what a great time we had at a fellow classmate's wedding reception. I found this poem on the Internet. The home page indicates: "There are over 1500 poems here, many written for special occasions, which you are free to use for any personal or non-commercial purpose."

One Year Ago You Died, and Still We Mourn by Ludwig Senfl
One year ago you died, and still we mourn,
Nor will our mourning end till it be night,
Even as time turns our tears to light
Years hence, when this may be more easily borne.
Each moment of your passion and delight,
As clear as sunshine, bountiful and bright,
Remains our fortune now that you are gone.

A week later

Well a week after surgery, I am doing much better. I started driving on Wednesday - that was rough, but I'm doing okay now. I haven't made long trips, but seem to be okay taking Elijah to school and short errands. I'm also getting around much better and don't experience as much pain when I get up and down. It just feels like a giant bruise across my stomach.

I'm trying to stay focused on school and finishing this statistics class. I'll be so happy when Tuesday comes around! Next class is another econ, but hopefully the professor is better than the last econ professor they subjected me to.

Other than that, I'm just taking it easy. I'm starting to get a little anxious for things to do, but I'm also trying to take it easy to help make sure I recover.

Happy birthday to my nephew (and Godson) Nicholas. I hope you had a great day! I miss you!

Enjoy your weekend! Stay warm!

My Update

Well, I'm moving around a little more. I still feel like I've been kicked in the gut about 10 times and then did 200 sit ups. I'm winding down on the pain medication. Being groggy and a little out of it, is not for me. However, if it starts hurting, I'm taking one! I'm down to 2-3 a day, which considering you can take them every 4-6 hours, I think that's pretty good.

I'm trying to use the time to catch up and get ahead of school work. The plan doesn't work so good after taking a pain pill . . . if you know what I mean! By this time next week, I'll be in a new class. Five to go counting that one. It feels good to be in the home stretch!

I've also been trying to catch up on shows and movies. Surprisingly, I'm enjoying the show The Girls Next Door. I'm amazed at how they live and their stories are kind of funny. I've also been catching up on CSI, Without a Trace, and I started watching The Sopranos since they started showing episodes on A&E.

Not much else is going on. Hopefully tomorrow I will feel up to driving. Although with it being so cold outside, I'm not that motivated to go out there!

Happy Birthday Lois!

Happy Birthday to my mother-in-law, Lois! I hope you have a great day and a great year. Maybe Elijah and I will see you soon!

I'm Okay

Well, I had my surgery yesterday. Apparently I didn't have gallstones, but gallrocks! They said when I do my follow up, they should have the size of these "bad boys", but on the camera, they looked pretty big. Here's the recap:

Wednesday evening I started getting a sore throat. Needless to say I was in a panic because I didn't want to have the surgery postponed. I started loading up on vitamin C and tea. Thursday I called my doctor and indicated I needed to see him right away. He listened to my lungs and said they were clear. As a precaution, he gave me an antibiotic shot (been a long time since I've had a drop my drawers for a shot at the doctor's office). I went back to work and continued my vitamin C, decaf green tea regimen. About 4 p.m. I got a call from the hospital that my surgery had been moved up. Be there at 7 a.m. for 9 a.m. surgery.

Friday morning I woke up to nasal drainage. My mom was convinced that we would get there and they would postpone. We get there about 6:50 a.m. About 7:15 a.m. they took me back to get prepped. I mentioned my nasal issue and they told me to talk to the anesthesiologist. At about 8 a.m., they let my mom and dad back to see me. About 45 minutes later, the doctor comes in to tell us that there was a error made in the OR schedule and they accidentally canceled a surgery and did not notify the patient. That meant that my surgery would be delayed. Needless to say, they did not take me to surgery until 12:30 p.m.! I was out before they even got me in the OR thanks to a "relaxer" they gave me on the way.

Evidently they made me sit in recovery for two hours -- time didn't mean much to me, but that is what my mom said. They would not let her or my dad see me until they took me to my room. The procedure was supposed to be outpatient, but since I was still coming out of the anesthesia at 6 p.m., they decided to keep me overnight. I didn't sleep so well - between not being able to get comfortable, waking up to coughing (which really hurts), and waking up to being parched, it wasn't a good night. I also had a slight fever before bed.

This morning I was visited by three different surgical residents (all at different times). Fever did not come back, so they released me. I'm sitting in a chair that slightly reclines. I took a little nap. Getting up and down is anything but fun, but I'm moving around okay. I'm trying to muster up the energy to do homework. Class is almost over!

Enjoy the rest of your weekend!

Open House

Today we went to an open house for the school that I hope Elijah will be attending in the Fall. I went on a tour last April, but it was nice to walk around again and actually meet some teachers. I think it looks good, but we will not know until April. Elijah seemed really excited while we were there, but later on he said it was boring. Since they have library, computer lab, art, gym, and science once a week, I don't see how it could be boring compared to what he does now! We shall see . . .

Hangin' In There

Well, I survived the first week on Jell-O and Italian Ice. I was able to also eat whole grain bread, some soups, egg substitutes, salad, fruits, and vegetables. One of our hotels came to visit and brought these delightful cookies. I really wanted one, but I didn't want to have to explain to an ER doctor that I was there because I ate a cookie! The only rough thing is that my energy level is very low. I wake up feeling good, but right now, I could easily go to bed. By this time next week I will be recovering and hopefully on some good pain meds! LOL

As of right now, my surgery is in the afternoon. What amazes me is that they still don't want me to eat anything after midnight. So, let me get this straight . . . if you have surgery at 8 a.m., or 9 a.m. (8-9 hours from midnight), you are okay, BUT having surgery at 2 p.m. or 4 p.m. needs to be 14-16 hours of nothing). Makes no sense to me, but hey, not like I'm eating much these days anyway. I just hope I don't get a headache from it, since I have gotten a migraine before from not eating.

Not much else is going on 16 days left in statistics! I can't wait for it to be over! Enjoy the rest of your weekend!

Happy Birthday Uncle Herbie!

Happy Birthday to my Uncle Herbie! I hope you had a great day! I wish you a great year!

Happy Birthday Aunt LeeLee!

Happy Birthday to my Aunt Lynda (I've always called her LeeLee - something to do with when I was learning to talk). I hope she has a great day and a great year! She deserves it!

An Update

Well, I followed up with my doctor yesterday. Can you believe I had to have blood drawn again! That makes about 8 pokes since the drama started on Tuesday. Needless to say I look like a bruised arm junkie. I found out surgery will be February 2. After that, I'm off work for 1-2 weeks. The plan is to go back to work Monday and attempt to work until the surgery.

The good news is that I have progressed from Jell-O and Italian Ice, to cereal, toast, and egg substitutes. The key is to avoid fat so the gallbladder doesn't kick in and give me another attack. Do you realize how hard it is to find food with zero fat? This should be an interesting couple of weeks to say the least.

On top of that, I got a horrible grade on my homework, but a great grade on my midterm. So, I'll be plugging away, trying to stay on top of my studies . . . yippee!

Enjoy your weekend!

Nothing like a little January Drama

So, what started off as a normal week, did not end as one! If you did not know, I ended up being rushed to the emergency room Tuesday afternoon. I was just released today and I will be having surgery in about two weeks. I'm doing okay now, but I still haven't graduated from clear foods yet! I'll be having my gallbladder removed. Thanks to my health insurance, they didn't do it while I was in the hospital. I have to do it as outpatient elective surgery. (I'll vent about that another time). Overall, I think I'll be alright!

Kevin is doing better as well -- they had to go in and remove scar tissue that was causing complications, so he has officially had two surgeries in one month! ATA (Against Tawnya's Advice), he came to the hospital to see me. I talked to him today and he's doing good.

That's all the drama for now . . . I hope!

5 Things You Don't Know About Me

Thanks to my friend Ray, I've been tagged to tell everyone five things they don't know about me. Some of you may know some of these -- I'll try to make it fun for all.

1. I started playing piano when I was 4. My only regret is that felt I was coerced into it, so I didn't appreciate it until I was an adult.

2. I was doing phone scams long before Q95.5. Back in college I pulled a bunch of them! I was also doing reality TV back in high school and college, but it was more like reality video. Anyone who knew me then, remembers that I always had a video camera to document us doing ridiculous things -- (nothing X rated!).

3. I applied to intern at the White House when I was in college. I got rejected . . . it's a good thing because I would have been there for Monicagate! Hey Monica -- I wouldn't have tape recorded your confessions!

4. I kissed Scott Baio. Okay, I was like six or seven years old, but I got his autograph and got to kiss his cheek at Autorama!

5. I was in the newspaper. It was a half page picture, taken my senior year when I was picking up my cap and gown. I grabbed a guy that I hardly knew and had him put the cap on my head while the photographer took the picture. I forgot about it, but my dad showed it to Elijah and he showed it to me over Christmas. The article was about how we were getting ready to graduate. That was funny!

There's probably more, but I have to be cognizant of the statute of limitations! :-)

Tag, You're it Janinne and Suzette!

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Inductees

Congratulations to the 2007 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Inductees. I mention it because one of my favorite groups, Van Halen was selected. I am also a fan of REM. The big question is, who will be there on behalf of Van Halen? Who will perform: Sammy or DLR? Only time will tell! What's rock & roll without a little scandal! There's also a historical moment with the first rap group inductee: Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five!

Happy Birthday Uncle Kenny!

Happy Birthday to Uncle Kenny! Elijah and I called him today (and reached him, we didn't have any luck yesterday with Chuck). Sounds like he had a good day. I asked him if he felt any younger and he just laughed at me!

Happy Birthday Chuck!

Happy Birthday to my father-in-law, Chuck! Hopefully we can get together soon!

Statistics . . . Yuck!

I just started week three of statistics (technically week five since we had a two week break, but those two weeks don't count). Before starting it, I was dreading it. Then I got the book and saw that it was teaching you how do everything in Excel, so I had hope. Well now, I'm just frustrated and unmotivated. Most of you know how analytical I am, so it would seem that this would be right up my alley, but it's not.

Kevin is doing okay. He still has the infection from surgery and they are trying to keep it from spreading. On a lighter note, he went for blood work and it came back that he was pregnant. We might just make some money off this! At least it gave him a laugh. Me too!

My dad called today and the police found his car. All the windows were broke out and it sounds like they went on a joyride or something. The car looked to have been in an accident where one side of the car is damage pretty bad. They took his satellite radio (no surprise), but they also took Elijah's booster seat. I guess you can't have too many of those. Considering we usually do a charity walk to help underprivileged families purchase booster seats, I guess I could consider that a charitable donation. I just hope some kid that needs it is using it.

Enjoy the rest of your weekend!

History is Made

It's not my intent to write every day, but it's just worked out that way this week!

Today was a historic moment . . . we have our first female Speaker of the House! Although I am happy about it (regardless of your political affiliation, if you're a woman, you should be happy), I find it sad that it has taken so long. What took so long? England had a female prime minister in the 80's. Canada had a female prime minister in 1993! Although we try to act like we are modern, are we really?

A Year Later

It was a year ago on this date that I started this blog. 143 Posts later, here we are. I hope it has been enjoyable for you. I know I have liked using it to keep everyone up to date in the happenings in my life. I still wish that more people would share Gary stories. That was the original purpose for doing this after all!

Unbelievable!

My dad called me today to tell me that he was leaving to pick up Elijah and someone stole his car! WHAT! Out of his own driveway! Unbelievable! My uncle said he drove by around 9 a.m. and the car was there. He came back by about 12:30 p.m. and it was gone. He thought my dad was running errands, so didn't think much of it. WOW! I'll let you know when I hear more.

Happy Birthday Ray!

Happy Birthday to my dear friend Ray. We went to college together awhile back. It's hard to forget a day like today as his birthday! I wish you all the best!

Happy 2007!

My Wish for You in 2007
May peace break into your house and may thieves come to steal your debts. May the pockets of your jeans become a magnet for $100 bills. May love stick to your face like Vaseline and may laughter assault your lips! May your clothes smell of success like smoking tires and may happiness slap you across the face and may your tears be that of joy. May the problems you had forget your home address! In simple words ............
May 2007 be the best year of your life!!!

Is Superior Customer Service Gone? Part 2

Back in May I wrote about a bad experience I had at a shoe store. Well, now I have another one. It's regarding getting a new battery. Here's the note I wrote to the company (I blocked out names to protect the guilty and the innocent):

I wanted to share with you my experience in purchasing a car battery. I went online to price batteries because I was advised to get a new battery. While researching, I saw a button that said "pick up in your local auto center". I selected it and put in my phone number where I was contacted immediately. I was then connected with a gentleman named J***. He assisted me in confirming a battery for my make/model, and completed my purchase. He told me that I would need my reference number, photo id, and the credit card number. I was given reference 6******. He told me all I would have to do is go to the auto center, give the three items he mentioned, get my battery, get it installed and be on my way. Sounds easy, sounds efficient. Well, my experience in the S*** Auto Center in Westland, MI was anything but easy and efficient. I went to the store at 10:20 a.m. I walked in and there was a gentleman behind the counter named T**. I told him that I bought the battery online/phone and here's my reference number. He said "I don't know how to do that." I said well, I was told that you need this number, ID, and credit card. He just looked around and said he didn't know how to help me. I asked if someone else could help. He responded that "I don't have a manager in today." I asked him if he could call someone. He looked around at another gentleman in the store named C*** and asked him if he knew how to help me. C*** said that I needed to go to package pickup, that they would need to get the battery from the lobby I was standing in, they would carry it over to package pick up, give it to me to put in my car and drive it back over to the auto center. That doesn't sound convenient or efficient. C*** said that the online/phone service people do not know that the store is not connected to the main Sears building. So, I drive over to customer pickup. When I walk in, I'm told that the computer system is down. Nobody knows what to do with this reference number. C*** who was in the auto store who walked over to the main store was trying very hard to help me and truly appreciate him going the extra mile. He was the only one who showed me true customer service. About 20 minutes later he comes out and says that I should have received an email confirmation. How can I get that when J*** never asked for an email address? I asked C*** if I could get to a computer to show him where I went on s****.com and how I purchased this battery. He took me in the back area and allowed me to go online. Just like I did at home, I put in my phone number and got a phone call. I was connected to J*** again (thank goodness it was someone that knew what I was talking about). He had me put C*** on the phone and then called over to the auto center to speak with T** to tell him how to pull up my order. By the time I drove back over to the Auto Center, 45 minutes had passed. I walk into the store and T** is on the phone with J*** and is holding my paperwork. Finally I feel like we are getting somewhere! He gets off the phone and proceeds to wrap up another customer and then moves on to me. He did apologize for not knowing what to do and for sending me to the wrong place. However he then goes into complaining about why I would purchase online when I have to come into the store anyway. Then a customer comes out of the lobby to ask about his car and Tom proceeds to get defensive, use the word "Hell" and says that he is only one person and can only take care of one person at a time. He then goes back to complaining about why I ordered online. He then hands me paperwork to sign after asking me if I paid over in package pickup. I explained again that I had nothing to do with package pickup other than the wasted trip. I paid online and
proceeded to show him on his own paperwork where it shows that I paid. He then asks if I would like him to carry my new battery to my car. Why would you do that when I paid for installation? He looked surprised and I show him on his own paperwork where I paid for installation. So, he had to do the paperwork again and set it up for installation, while continuing to chastise me for doing this online. I realize that I am younger than him, but I felt he was out of line, however I did not feel comfortable telling him that I didn't appreciate his comments for fear that he would keep me there even longer then I have been waiting (we are over an hour at this point). He gets it all set and I proceed to sit in the waiting area. The service gentleman takes my car and I watch him replace the battery through the window. I did not get his name, but he was efficient. When he finished my car, I watched him drive around to the front of the building. As he was walking in, I asked T** if all I needed were my keys. He said no, there's more paperwork and once again complained about me doing this online. It's been a long time since I have been this frustrated over an experience in a store. If he had only apologized, I could have accepted that, but he didn't. By the time I left I had been there over an hour and half. I was never offered any sort of compensation. (In customer pickup it says you get a $5 certificate if it takes over 5 minutes to get your order -- it sure took longer than that). I originally did not plan to purchase online, I was only shopping around. It seemed efficient, but quickly turned into a nightmare. I have apprehensions about making any purchases related to your auto center, ever again. I would suggest that the employees in the auto store know how to pull up these types of orders, as well as learn to complain somewhere else other than in front of your customers.

A Moment to Remember

I have to admit that I have not been as political over the years, as I used to be. However, when I heard of President Ford's death, I knew that being in Michigan, I had an opportunity that I did not have before and probably would not have again. Yesterday, I took Elijah to the Gerald R. Ford Library in Ann Arbor to sign the condolence book. Even though he didn't understand what he was doing when he wrote his name down, I thought it would be something he would appreciate later in life. Years ago, Gary and I went to Grand Rapids for a mountain bike race. I remember dragging him to Gerald R. Ford Museum. He was kicking and screaming a little at first, but once we were there, I know he enjoyed it.

Happy Birthday Glenn!

Happy Birthday to my brother-in-law Glenn! I don't know if he's in town or out of town, but I hope his day is great!

When Will It End?

I saw my friend Kevin just before the holidays and it looked like he was doing well. This morning I got a call that he was back in the hospital and has had complications and infection. The details are gross, so I'll spare you, but if you would please continue to pray for him.

Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas everyone! I hope that everyone had a great day! Elijah had a great Christmas and received some great presents! Thank you to everyone!

Last night we had to sprinkle the magic reindeer dust in our yard (Thank you Aunt Laurie for providing the magic dust). Then we had to write Santa a note, lay out two cookies and a carrot for Rudolph. One problem: we didn't have a carrot! Thank goodness Aunts (Aunt Betty) came to the rescue and sent a carrot home with my mom. Elijah was about to make me write an apology letter to Rudolph if Aunts hadn't come through for us. From there, Elijah was trying to set up his hiding place to wait for Santa. After I reminded him that "he knows when you are sleeping, he knows when you're awake," I convinced him to lay down and watch a movie. He was out within 15 minutes!

Needless to say, he was very excited this morning and had a great day! Merry Christmas!

Feeling Charitable?

As I mentioned months ago, I started a scholarship fund in Gary's name via Tau Kappa Epsilon Foundation. If you feel like giving, click on the link, choose Named Scholarship Funds, and just before you get to the end, note: Gary Dysarz Memorial Scholarship - Rho Tau Chapter. Donations are tax deductible and it will help other Tekes (and hopefully Elijah) in the future, as well as carrying on Gary's name! Tis the season for giving!

Milestone Day

Happy Birthday to my boy! It's a milestone birthday! Where does the time go? We've been celebrating since Saturday, but it's official now! We even went to Toys R Us where they gave him a crown, balloon and called his name over the intercom. He had fun!

Super Saturday

I wanted to post this last night, but I was too tired from such a super Saturday! The day began with pickup up the cake for Elijah's birthday party. Then it was rush home and wait for the special phone call . . . from Santa! It was a great call and Santa touched on everything . . . from talking about what Elijah got last year, to doing well in school, karate and his new belt. He also talked about how Santa's elves go out an spy for him and a lot of times they take the form of a dog . . . like Sasha! He also talked about Gary. It was so nice. I was only bummed that there was a minor snafu in the time, so I didn't have my video camera handy to tape it. Oh well, there's always next year!

Elijah's party was great! Everyone seemed to have fun. He got LOTS of presents and wanted to open each and everyone of them last night! I think the best surprise of all was that my brother Keith came and brought my nieces and and nephew. It was great to see them and I think they all had fun!

Other than that, tomorrow is my last day of class before a two week holiday break! I am SO excited! Today Elijah is singing at mass with his Sunday school class. He's not awake yet, so I guess I will have to wake him up soon! I still have some shopping to finish! Enjoy the rest of your weekend!

Kevin is also out of the hospital and is recovering. He's in a lot of pain, but he is starting to sound better. Thank you for keeping him in your prayers.

Another Update

I went to see Kevin last night in the hospital. He's in a lot of pain, which I am not surprised considering the type of surgery he had. What surprises me is that normally this type of surgery is outpatient and they send you home that day. However, there were apparently some complications during surgery and his heart stopped twice and he stopped breathing once . . . WHAT! No one mentioned it to him or anyone else until hours later when they were admitting him. The marks on his chest from the paddles just went away. His dad told him it must not have been his time. I told him it better not be!

The plan is to release him today, but not for sure. I'll keep you posted. Please keep him in your prayers. I've known him since I was four years old and he is a brother to me. He had helped me through some of the toughest times of my life and he has been with me through the happiest. I don't know what I would do without him.

Kevin Update

My friend Kevin had surgery today. They had to remove "the other one" because of the cancer. He came through surgery fine, but is in a lot of pain. Once the lab reports come back, we'll know if he needs chemo and/or radiation. Please keep him in your thoughts and prayers.

More Birthdays and Other Stuff!

December has a number of birthdays for my family. Most recently, two of my cousins: Debbie and Lorie. Happy birthday to you both!

I got my grade on my final paper for my last class . . . I got 200 out of 200! He wrote in the comments: "One of the best papers I have ever read!" WOW! I thought that was really cool! Thanks to that grade, I'm getting an "A"!

Elijah is testing for a new belt today. I should have more to report out on later!

Enjoy your weekend!

D-Day . . . Bad Day

Today's D-Day where most are membering Pearl Harbor. I remember it is a bad day. I was kind of emotional today. I was ready to burst into tears at any moment, but I held it together. A few people I work with that Gary and I knew, remembered what day it was. Not much else was said. Thanks for those who remembered, I still can't believe it's five years later.

The Day Before

Well, tomorrow is the day . . . it will be 5 years since Gary passed. I can't believe it is has been that long. In some ways it feels like yesterday. I try not to dwell on it, but I still miss him very much. I thought it would get easier, but the only thing that gets easy is that I don't think about it everyday. I'll probably be okay tomorrow since over the last few years, the day before has been worse (thanks to anxiety over the day coming). I only ask that you take a moment to remember him. Think of a funny story, or something he did that made you smile. I would absolutely love it if you would post a comment about what you remember. You don't have to create a log in, just post as anonymous (but put your name in the text, so I know who you are). I would also ask that you cherish your loved ones tomorrow. Give them and extra hug, kiss, and tell them how you feel about them. You never know what tomorrow holds . . .

Nutcracker

Today I went to "The Nutcracker" at the Detroit Opera House. This is the second year that my niece (and Goddaughter), has had a part in the production. It was a great performance, the only thing is it was hard to see her because of her costume, but I know she did well. I'm so proud of her!

The Week in Review

Sorry I haven't had a chance to write before now. It's been a busy week. There were a few birthdays this week: my dad, and my nephews: Aaron and David. I hope all of them had a great birthday!

Elijah is testing for a new belt next week, that should be fun! This weekend we have a birthday party today and the ballet tomorrow (my niece and Goddaughter has a part in it). It's also the last week of class.

As of Tuesday, I'll be starting a statistics class. Normally I would say 'yuck' but since it is using Excel, hopefully it won't be too bad. I looked over the syllabus and I have to do a paper, as well as some team projects. The nice thing is that I'll get a two week break for the holidays! I can't wait!

Have a great weekend!

I pulled it off!

Last night I pulled off a surprise party for my dad! He's turning 60 next week. We meet at Sweet Lorraine's at the Detroit Downtown Courtyard. After appetizers and some socializing, we headed to Greektown Casino. I'm not much of a gambler, but I came out $18 ahead! Everyone seemed to have a good time and I know my dad had a lot of fun!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Happy Thanksgiving everyone! I hope you have a great day with friends and family! Yeah Turkey! It's my favorite!

Happy Birthday to Rachel! It was yesterday. I remember when she was born . . . Gary's sister came home the next day and cooked Thanksgiving dinner! Wow!

Can't he catch a break?

My friend Kevin called me last night to let me know that two of his kids were a bad car accident on Friday. The SUV they were in rolled 3 times. His daughter has a broken pelvis, and his son is messed up as well. When is this guy going to get a break? Please say a prayer for him and his family. Thank you.

Congratulations Beth & Mike!

I was at a wedding last night at The Dearborn Inn (a Marriott Hotel). A friend from work married off her daughter last night. It was a great night! Congratulations Beth & Mike!

We'll Miss You Bo!

What started a fun rivalry between myself and my co-workers in Ohio, ended a sad day for college football history. Bo Schembechler was a coach I first heard about in high school. Our football coach was a Bo fanatic. Then I went to Michigan, sure it was in Dearborn, but I had football tickets! It's sad to know he's gone, but I hope the team has the momentum to bring it home for Bo! Go Blue!

Why?

Why is it that my professor has not posted any grades since week one? (we're in week five right now)?

Why is it that I can't seem to please one of the hotels I represent, no matter what I do?

Why is it that we are in the middle of November and I'm still trying to figure out what happened to June?

Why would someone from the bank call and leave me a message about my consolidation loan (that I have not taken out), cause me to freak out and not sleep last night because I'm thinking that I just moved into phase 2 of my identity theft, only to find out that she was soliciting me for a home equity loan to as a way to consolidate my bills? It took everything in me to remain professional on the phone. That was a very MISLEADING voice mail!

Not much else going on. Could still use some prayers for my family and loved ones.

Get OUT and VOTE!

Don't forget to vote today! If you don't vote, don't complain about what's going on in this country!

Red Hot Chili Peppers

Thanks to the Troy Marriott, a bunch of us from work were treated to the Red Hot Chili Peppers concert at the Palace. We received transportation in the form of a party bus, suite tickets, and a LOT of beverages. The night ended with complimentary accommodations at the hotel. Some of you may have received some text messages and/or photos sent from me. I hope you enjoyed them. I'm starting to get better at typing these text messages!

It was a great time and it was nice to get out. Elijah spent the night with Grandpa S and had fun as well. It was back to the routine on Saturday with a morning karate class.

November?

Say it isn't so! Where has this year gone?

I am reading a book about leadership in my class. It's called "The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership" by John C. Maxwell. It's a great, easy to read, book about what makes a great leader. There are so many good quotes, I could go on forever . . .

A great quote is actually a leadership proverb: "He who thinks he leads, but has no followers, is only taking a walk." (Maxwell, 1998, p.20).

I'll try to quote some more as the month goes on.

Happy Halloween

Happy Halloween! Elijah and his class went on a field trip to a senior citizen home for a Halloween Parade. He was a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle. It was his first time riding a schoolbus. He said he had a good time.

Tonight he will be a red Power Ranger. The only reason he was a TMNT was he needed something that was easy to get in and out of while at school.

Happy Birthday Chad

Happy Birthday to my brother Chad. I hope your day gives you what you want from it.

Do What You Have to Do

Once in awhile, I get songs in my head that I can't seem to get out. I once heard them called "earworms." Maybe they should be called something else because that is really gross. I don't know if I am 'allowed' to write down the lyrics, so I'll attach the links.

http://www.geocities.com/riddles_and_rhymes/lyrics/dwyhtd.html
http://www.azlyrics.com/lyrics/petergabriel/igrieve.html

I have cried to this song off and on for many years. It makes me think of my honey and how much I miss him.

Last week Elijah asked if he could play his daddy's guitar. I let him. I showed him how to hold it and I took his picture. It took everything in me not to burst into tears right then and there. I can't do it because Elijah gets upset if he thinks I'm upset. He tells me he misses his Daddy. It breaks my heart that Gary isn't here with us. That's all for now.

Book It!

Elijah's class participates in Book It! with Pizza Hut. If you make your reading goal, you get a coupon for a free personal pan pizza. Elijah earned his for the month of October. He was so excited. He was holding his paper all the way to school and even said "Mommy, I'm so excited!" We went today and got the pizza. He was so cute as he held it up and showed the server.

It's been a rough week from a work and personal standpoint. Hopefully it will start to get better at work, but I don't know when it will on the other front. If you are one that prays, I ask that you say a few for my family.

Don't forget to change your clocks tonight!

Elijah updates

Elijah is doing very well in his class. He seems to be enjoying school and is learning a lot. He now does number games like "I know what 5 and 6 are: 56!" It's cute to see him figuring things out!

He's also doing well in karate. He did some good deeds and read some books to earn two more stars for his Gi. He now has 5 stars for his Gi!

He's also excited that he's almost met his monthly reading commitment for school. If he makes it he gets a PizzaHut coupon for a free personal pan pizza. At first he wasn't excited because he said he can't read. Finally he realized he doesn't have to know all the words to read the book! (Is that what those pictures are for?!).

Yesterday he went to Carnival Cuts for a "wash and cut." He lets the hairdresser use the electric clippers on him. He looks like such a little man! His pictures from school came in, so I probably owe you a wallet photo!

A month later

It's been a month since my wallet was stolen. Last week I mailed off my last affidavit to indicate that I did not make the fraud charges, I did not benefit from the fraud charges, and I support prosecuting whoever did. So, unofficially, it looks like all the credit card charges have been reversed. What a PITA! Now comes the waiting game: waiting for the police to catch the criminal, and waiting to see if anything else happens as far as stealing my identity. The police said it is not likely they will catch the person. Sometimes they catch the person in the act and then backtrack and solve other cases they couldn't solve. I hope the criminal is dumb enough to use my brother's business card to try and get out of a moving violation. Usually the officer will call the other officer on the card to verify. Wouldn't that be nice if they caught him that way . . .

Help

First off, I found out that my aunt has colon cancer. She's having surgery on October 30. The doctor says they will need to remove half of her colon. Please pray for her. This C word: cancer, is really bringing me down.

Second, I have some loved ones that are still going through a rough time. They could use your prayers as well. I'm sorry I cannot tell you more, but I wouldn't ask you to pray for them if it weren't important.

Modern Technology

My contract was up on my cell phone. I searched around and found my current provider had the best deal, so I renewed with them. The nice thing is that they offer an upgrade program when you sign a new contract. I was able to get a $150 instant rebate toward a new phone! I now have a phone that has a camera (I chose to not have one all these years), and most importantly: Bluetooth! So, I now have one of those wireless earpieces and look modern and sassy! Did I mention that my phone is pink . . . ooooohhhhh!

I got an A in Finance! Seven classes to go (including the one I just started). I'm a little excited, but not so much when I think of paying back those student loans! Yuck!

Other than that, I'm tired and looking forward to the weekend. Bring it on!

Saturday the 14th

I don't know if any of you remember this spoof a movie back in the 80's. It was part comedy, part mild scary movie that made fun of the day after Friday the 13th. Each time the 14th falls on a Saturday, I think of it.

Anyway, not much is going on. Finishing up finance, getting adjusted to having another dog in the house, etc.

Elijah has been learning about the President this week. Yesterday he asked me if I knew that the president lives in a white house? I asked him if it's really big, he said yeah and it's all white! He's also learned about muscles and he told me that our hearts are not shaped like a heart you write on paper.

Today in karate he helped out the teacher and earned another paper star. That was the last on he needed to get another blue star for is Gi. He was very excited!

Enjoy the rest of your weekend. Stay warm!

The last week of Finance

Today starts the last week of finance. Classes run Tuesday through Monday. I was looking forward to it being over and starting a new class, but as you know, I tend to "freak out" when I review the syllabus for the new class. Today was not exception! It looks like it's going to be a lot of reading and a lot of work. I just keep telling myself three more classes and I move into the specialty of the MBA. I'm just under a year to finish!

Sasha is doing well and starting to get very comfortable in her new home. We've had a few hiccups, but I think in a week or two we will be fine.

On another note, I have some loved ones that are having a tough time. I can't get into any detail, but please say a prayer for them.

What's new

Let's see, I keep realizing things that were in my stolen wallet - membership to The Henry Ford, stamps, you know -- things that you don't think of until you go to use them!

I spoke with a detective in one of the cities -- in fact the one where the most fraudulent charges occurred. One of the stores has video surveillance. They are working on burning it on a disc to show me. I also discovered yesterday that there were more charges on one of my credit cards, than I was originally told. I hope they catch whoever did this.

On a fun note, it looks like we are getting another dog. Her name is Sasha and she comes from a Rottweiller Rescue group in the area. Elijah is very excited. She's a little over a year old and very sweet.

Elijah went to the dentist today and did very well. I was so proud. He also is doing well in karate and earned another stripe!

Have a great weekend!

Happy Birthday Marc!

Happy Birthday to my cousin Marc! I'm sure he celebrated last night!

Elijah started his religious education at church today. He was very apprehensive at first, but when I picked him up after mass he wanted to make sure that he comes back again! He made some nice artwork and started learning a new prayer.

After church we headed out to a metro park North of Auburn Hills so a Rottweiller Rescue Reunion. We went to see a rott puppy we are interested in adopting: Sasha. She was so sweet. Elijah wanted to take her home today, but when you adopt, it's a very formal process. Maybe soon we will have another doggie to fill the void that Porsche left behind almost two years ago.

Two weeks to go and I'm done with finance. One more week and I will be less than a year from graduation! Yahoo!

Not much to update

I really don't have much of an update on the identity theft/stolen wallet scam. I did go to the bank to straighten things out and the CVS that the one police detective went to, credited back the fraudulent charge on my account. That's one good thing. However, there was another charge! How can that be you ask? Well, if you don't know this already, take note. When you use your ATM/Debit/Check Card, it reserves $1 on your account. As the bank explains to me, it's done to see if the account is "good." It then takes 24-48 hours for the actual charge to debit your checking account. Of the phone calls I made Thursday and Friday, no one bothered to mention that there was a $1 hold on my account for another possible transaction. Fortunately, it was only $16.91 (still doesn't make it right, but at least it didn't drain my account). I also found out that they tried to make a $300+ purchase at Autozone, but I had already froze that account so the transaction was DENIED!

I also found out yesterday, that one charge that I was told was pending on my account at GFS in Southfield (3 transactions there by the way, so take note that they don't bother to check ID and see that a man is using a women's credit card). Since I reported the card stolen, AMEX was able to deny that hold on my account. Poor GFS. I feel so bad that you got ripped off . . . not! Check ID people!

Another funny. I got a letter in the mail Monday (5 days after the fact) from one of my banks telling me that they tried to reach me by phone and there were some suspicious charges to my account. You think? I've only talked to you on the phone 5 times in 5 days and in person once and I'm the one that told you!

So, I'm just waiting for some form to dispute some charges for one bank, and then I think I've cleared up the whole shopping spree. The future is unknown. Although the police feel that this yahoo was just looking for a joy ride and isn't confrontational, who knows who gets my wallet next. I'll probably be paranoid for awhile.

On a positive note, I have to say of all the companies I've worked with over this mess, US Bank is the best. From the minute I realized that there were fraud charges, they were on it and never even let the charges hit my account. They were A+ by all accounts and I would recommend doing business with them.

The latest update

I was pleasantly surprised to hear from a detective from one of the police departments yesterday. He went to the CVS where one of the crimes occurred. He was able to give me a description -- the main thing being it was a MAN. Now tell me that a man using a woman's credit card isn't suspicious. Unbelievable! There are supposed to be procedures in place where a manager would come and over-ride the transaction (because of how much it is) and check ID. As luck would have it, the manager was busy, so nothing was checked.

I hope I get more scoop from the other cities and I hope the criminal is caught! I also hope that my credit card company gets their money back and makes CVS take the loss due to their own stupidity! I'm trying not to be bitter, but I am angry!

Where do I begin

Yesterday when I went to leave work I noticed something odd. My wallet was gone! At first I'm thinking, could I have left it in the cafeteria . . . no, I remember putting it back in my purse. I couldn't believe someone would just take it!

So, I call one of my credit card companies. While she's putting a hold on my account, she happens to verify my last transactions. Imagine my surprise when she says $500 at a Rite Aid . . . WHAT! There were three transactions at Rite Aid in Waterford -- each $400-500!

I had a credit card, 2 bank cards and a corporate card. They all got hit! When I added up the charges, it's over $4,300! They enjoyed shopping at Rite Aid, CVS, Gordon Food Service, and Farmer Jack. Nice!

My day was spent talking to the Franklin Police -- very nice by the way. Going to the Secretary of State, the bank, lots of phone calls. I also had to go to the Waterford Police, Bloomfield Hills Police and Southfield Police Departments. You have to file a report in each city/town where the crimes are committed. This ensures that if they are able to catch the @&#$% they can be prosecuted and not get off on a technicality such as jurisdiction. PITA! I hope they catch whoever did this and they ROTT!

I'm tired!

Pandora

So my work put the big stop to what is on our computers. We can't have pictures, screensavers or anything that is .exe programs. Now if anything needs to be upgraded or installed, it has to be done by a system administrator. I found myself looking for free internet radio that doesn't require software to be installed. I found a site called Pandora.
http://feeds.pandora.com/feeds/people/tawnydys/favorites.xml?max=50 Here's some of my favorites. You can design your own radio station with your favorite music, as well as rate their suggestions.

TGIF

I don't know about anyone else, but this felt like a long week! I have to work for a few hours tomorrow, so it's going to feel even longer!

Today at work we had the Detroit Historical Museum. They brought us lunch and told us about their museum. Very interesting. It's being renovated right now, but reopens September 29. I can't wait to go check it out. They have an actual replication of a Detroit city street - fascinating! They have a special event in October call "Taste of the D" It's a beer tasting for my beer lovin friends!

On a different subject, I stumbled across a cool website that can give you traffic updates by email or phone: Traffic.com. You can set it up for most big cities around the US. Now I get a phone call in the morning if there are any traffic delays on my "route." Today going home, I hit some traffic, so I called the number and it told me where the problem spot was and the anticipated delay. I'm lovin it!

Happy Birthday to my niece Natalie. I hope you had a great birthday!

Too Tired to Only Be Tuesday!

It's only Tuesday!? Too much going on! Tomorrow is picture day for Elijah and I can't wait to see how they turn out with his new haircut!

Not much else other than juggling work, school, parenthood, and extra-curriculars -- ahhhhhh life in the fast lane! Not quite the fast lane I would have predicted years ago, but ya gotta love it!

The First Week

Elijah did very well for his first week of school w/o a nap! He seems to be having fun and learning a lot!

On another note, I took him up to the mall today and we did some clothes shopping. He's hit a growth spurt, so this was the first time we went in a dressing room and actually tried on clothes!
After buying some outfits, I walked him over to Carnival Cuts. If you don't know, Elijah does not do well when it comes to haircuts. Well, I just marched him in and told him it needed to be cut. He got to sit on a horse and watch Buzz Lightyear while he got a haircut. The stylist also used the electric clippers on him. He looks so grown up. Pictures for school are next week, so they should be nice!

Congratulations Nikki & Steve

Congratulations to my cousin Nikki who got married yesterday. It was a beautiful day and a great celebration. It was good to see some people I have not seen in a long time, and to see others again on a happy occasion. I wish you both all the best!

Happy Birthday Laura!

Happy Birthday to my niece and Goddaughter Laura! I'm glad you had a great day and I hope to see you soon!

Elijah started kindergarten yesterday. So far so good! He said he likes it . . . we'll see how he feels at the end of the week!

Last full day in Orlando

Today is our last full day in Orlando. I'm not sure what we are going to do. The boy is still sleeping -- his schedule is way off!

Yesterday we went to Universal Studios again. We were on our second trip to help ET save his planet when a bad storm rolled in. They closed everything outdoors because it was lightening. We went to MIB, but it just would not let up. After 15 minutes of standing in the store waiting for it to let up, we decided to head back to the hotel.

On the way back to the front, we encountered several areas that had flooded. At one point I was standing in a puddle up past my ankles! As we were leaving, we were going to stop and try out the Bubba Gump Shrimp Co for some lunch, but boy was maxed out from all the disappointment of the weather. Back to the hotel we went.

Later, we met up with a friend from work that just transferred down here. Off to Bubba Gump Shrimp Co we went! The food was awesome and the service was great. They had trivia on the Forrest Gump movie, which I did very well since I love that movie. After, we walked around Citywalk and played some games.

Not sure what today holds, but I'm sure we will have fun! See you soon!

Happy Belated Birthday Pammy!

Yesterday was my cousin Pammy's birthday. I didn't get a chance to log in last night to post her a message so I'm doing it now! I hope you milestone birthday was great!

Ernesto

Well, we made it through Ernesto! There were what they call rain squals, but other than that it wasn't too bad until around 6 p.m. Then the downpour began and did not want to stop!

Last night we went to a Pirate Adventure dinner theatre. It was great, but of course we got caught in the downpour! Everyone but Elijah was pretty soggy. It was a great show and the food was good. Elijah was too shy to participate on stage, but he did participate from his seat!

Don't know what the day holds for today, but it is sunny again! We did make it to Islands of Adventure the other day and there is a new ride at Seuss Landing. It's a train ride in the sky. We rode it twice and it takes you around Seuss Landing and you can see other parks within the park. Once again it is HOT here! When we left on Tuesday at around 4 p.m. it was 99 degrees!

Another Smokin Day

We're down in Florida and it is HOT! Sunday wasn't bad, there was a couple of quick sprinkles and cooled things off a bit. Yesterday it was sunny and hot! At one point the car thermometer said it was 104 degrees.

So far we've been to Universal Studios and Disney MGM. Today sounds like it's Island of Adventure, but that can change.

Cross your fingers that we don't get evacuated for the hurricane!

Now that's a fire

I forgot to mention that earlier this week we had a fire in our front yard! Robbie was acting funny and naturally you assume he just wants to outside time. Well, when the door to outside was opened, it smelled like burning wood. After a good search of the house - basement and furnace included, we couldn't find anything. While I was upstairs looking out the windows for something, I hear "come quick!" Next thing I know there's a small blaze in our front yard and it is close to the bush . . . yikes! I extinguished it with a bucket of water (and another to be safe). Note to self -- keep mulch off of outdoor lighting!

The New Belt

Today was testing day at karate. Elijah did well and earned his white with yellow stripe belt! He was so proud! They gave him a certificate as well! He stayed focused and worked hard. I'm so proud of him!

I'm writing this from Orlando. We made it down after a brief flight delay -- 30 minutes at the gate and then another 15 in the plane. When we landed we had to wait another 10 because there was lightening and they could not let us off the plane for safety reasons. Then our bags were delayed as well. Overall I think it set us back 1 1/2 hours, but we're here! Hopefully tomorrow will be a smoother day!

Have a good weekend!

Happy Birthday Janinne!

Happy Birthday to my sister-in-law Janinne! I hope your day was great and I'm glad you liked your cards!

The Green Stripe

Elijah earned his green stripe in Karate. Next Saturday he gets to test for a belt -- white with yellow stripe! It should be interesting. After that we get ready to leave for Florida.

Not much else is going on. Have a great weekend!

11 Days and Counting

I don't think I mentioned this earlier, but I stumbled across a sweet deal to go back to Florida. 11 days and counting! I had a week of time share left from 2003 and it was about to expire. The crazy thing was I could only confirm it 2 months in advance, so it's no surprise that I'm down to the wire and book it at the last minute. On a good note, I will be on break from school for 5 of the days, so I'm really excited about that.

On another note, I passed the pre-requisite for Finance. It was pass/fail, so my effort wasn't high, but it's nice to know I passed. We will see how the "real" class goes now! In less and 14 months I will be done! That is very exciting!

Enjoy the rest of your week!

Cincinnati

Yesterday I drove down to Cincinnati for a business/pleasure trip. It was to visit the Kingsgate Conference Center, and see the area. Since it was a Friday, I brought Elijah, along with Grandma & Grandpa H.

We started with a great lunch buffet. From there, we (others from my office and myself), split off from out guests and did a tour of the University of Cincinnati Rec Center and Student Union -- which BTW has a movie theatre and a bar in it -- I think I got ripped off in my undergraduate education! While we were on the tour, the fire alarm went off, so we got to see Cincinnati's finest come in and save the day (well, they would have it it wasn't a false alarm)! After that excitement, we headed off to a great place called Newport on the Levee. Great place to shop, eat and have a great time. It's on the Kentucky side, but has a great view of downtown Cincinnati.

On Saturday we wrapped up with business and were off to enjoy the rest of the weekend on our own. Thanks to the great team at Kingsgate, (and it looks like our friends at the SpringHill Suites as well), we received free tickets to the Beach Waterpark. What a great day! Elijah had a blast -- actually we all did!

We are about to go down and have dinner . . . enjoy the rest of your weekend!

My big boy

Elijah had his first sleepover last night. He stayed at Aunt Laurie's and hung out with Madison. This was his first night away from home without me. Needless to say I think he slept better than I did! He didn't come home until after 4 p.m. today! He said he had fun and I think Maddie had fun too!

Happy Birthday Terry!

Happy birthday to my step father Terry! I didn't get to see him today to wish him a happy birthday in person, but I hope his day was great!

I'd also like to wish a few others a happy b-day: Michelle, Lindsey, and Jen! They all had birthdays on the 9th!

When it rains

It Pours!

Well, my mom had surgery on Friday. She's doing very well by the way. Yesterday my dad calls and says he isn't coming over because he doesn't feel well. Next thing I know, he's off to the hospital. He has a major ear infection which was causing him other problems. I bailed him out today and he has to follow up with a specialist.

Some of you may remember, when my mom had her breast cancer surgery almost two years ago, my dad collapsed about two days after and ended up with a pacemaker!

Too much drama!

Homecoming Weekend

For those of you who are/were Dearbornites, it's homecoming weekend! I don't know if I'll make it, but we'll see!

I got my grade today and it was right! I also got my weekly grades for finance. I had to do a financial analysis on Exxon Mobil and my professor wrote: "This assignment was excellent." That made me feel really good considering I've never taken a finance class before!

Gotta run . . . my mom had shoulder surgery today and needs my assistance. Have a great weekend!

Happy Birthday Josh!

Happy 17th Birthday to Kevin's son Josh! I hope your day was great!

How hot is it?

Well, it's so hot here that yesterday my rearview mirror fell off! I had to go to Murray's to get the stuff to put it back on! That's hot!