My home looks a wreck. The living room is full of my sleeping bag, huge duffel, and sleeping pad--plus other assorted things I need for the Avon Walk this coming weekend. And my bedroom has many "stacks" of clothing on the floor. Several stacks for Goodwill. And some for eBay that I have to take pictures of, and then post and write descriptions. I'm really trying to clean out my closets.
But for the daytime hours I have plenty to do here at work. So I best resturn to it.
Tuesday, May 31, 2005
Monday, May 30, 2005
5/30 eBay
Okay, I can now confess. I'd never been on eBay. I have a brother who's a pro at it. He buys something and sells it as a profit. He has a real eye for those things. Not me.
But I'd bought some new walking shoes that hurt my toe. No point in enduring that kind of pain when I'm doing something that's supposed to be good for me. I only wore them once. So I put them online and I actually got a bid. Quite exciting.
I'm thinking I found my new addiction.
But I'd bought some new walking shoes that hurt my toe. No point in enduring that kind of pain when I'm doing something that's supposed to be good for me. I only wore them once. So I put them online and I actually got a bid. Quite exciting.
I'm thinking I found my new addiction.
Sunday, May 29, 2005
5/29 Jill's birthday
It seems impossible that another year has passed and it's Jill's birthday again. In my mind she's still that tiny little beauty that didn't want me to leave her sight. Now she's 31 with a husband and two kids and the wonderful life she's always wanted.
Even though Jill lives in Los Angeles, thanks to the wonders of the internet we still talk all the time. I appreciate that so much.
Today I called to wish her a happy birthday and of course I spoke to the kids. Hunter, as always, was so excited he kept yelling into the phone. He's always so eager to tell me everything and I barely understand what he's saying. I love it.
And Kayla was adorable as always. She had Jill mail me a letter and some pictures she colored. They came in the mail yesterday and it was a great surprise to cap off my day when I got home from CSz. So I thanked her for the surprise, and we talked about everything. She's such a grown-up five.
Last time we spoke I told Kayla that I got her some Princess stickers that I knew she'd love. Today she remarked, "Those stickers are sure taking a long time to get here." I said, "I didn't mail them; I'm bringing them with me when I come out again."
Pause.
Kayla added, "Or you can mail them and surprise me."
I love the way that girl thinks.
Jill, a great big Happy Birthday, and thanks so much for the gifts you've given me over the years--especially for Kayla and Hunter, the best presents of all.
Even though Jill lives in Los Angeles, thanks to the wonders of the internet we still talk all the time. I appreciate that so much.
Today I called to wish her a happy birthday and of course I spoke to the kids. Hunter, as always, was so excited he kept yelling into the phone. He's always so eager to tell me everything and I barely understand what he's saying. I love it.
And Kayla was adorable as always. She had Jill mail me a letter and some pictures she colored. They came in the mail yesterday and it was a great surprise to cap off my day when I got home from CSz. So I thanked her for the surprise, and we talked about everything. She's such a grown-up five.
Last time we spoke I told Kayla that I got her some Princess stickers that I knew she'd love. Today she remarked, "Those stickers are sure taking a long time to get here." I said, "I didn't mail them; I'm bringing them with me when I come out again."
Pause.
Kayla added, "Or you can mail them and surprise me."
I love the way that girl thinks.
Jill, a great big Happy Birthday, and thanks so much for the gifts you've given me over the years--especially for Kayla and Hunter, the best presents of all.
Saturday, May 28, 2005
5/28 Working
Wow, it's a beautiful day. Still only in the 50s but the sun is shining and it's definitely spring. Elsewhere they're swimming and sunning. Here, we're just grateful it's not snowing.
I'm in the office today trying to play catch-up, since I'm taking Friday off for the Avon Breast Cancer Walk. And this evening I'm working at CSz.
But Sunday and Monday are all mine. ALL MINE!
I'm in the office today trying to play catch-up, since I'm taking Friday off for the Avon Breast Cancer Walk. And this evening I'm working at CSz.
But Sunday and Monday are all mine. ALL MINE!
Friday, May 27, 2005
5/27 New photos
Last night I posted the Relay for Life photos. It was an extraordinary time with the family.
Speaking of extraordinary times, I was up most of the night vomiting. I'm not pregnant, so I either gave myself food poisoning or I have a virus. The former is much more likely than the latter.
Speaking of extraordinary times, I was up most of the night vomiting. I'm not pregnant, so I either gave myself food poisoning or I have a virus. The former is much more likely than the latter.
Thursday, May 26, 2005
5/26 Pictures of Eric's party
I posted lots of pictures from Eric's party. I want to go back in and edit all the ones with me and a niece or nephew, and put their names on the photos. And I wish I had some of me playing FourSquare, because I played nearly all the time.
Still haven't posted the ones from the Relay for Life, but I hope to do that tonight.
In the meantime, here are two from my last Rec League match at CSz. (Thanks, Michele, for taking them.) We were playing a game called Double Blind Freeze.
Still haven't posted the ones from the Relay for Life, but I hope to do that tonight.
In the meantime, here are two from my last Rec League match at CSz. (Thanks, Michele, for taking them.) We were playing a game called Double Blind Freeze.
Wednesday, May 25, 2005
5/25 Music helps
Lots going on at work. To stop being distracted I usually just close my door. But that looks so antisocial. So now my door is open, and I have my iPod going strong. When someone stops by my office I just take out the earbuds and I'm available.
The Avon Breast Cancer Walk is getting so close. I'm very excited about it. Besides all the hard work, it's fun spending the weekend with my sisters. However we only see each other on the fly during the Walk itself. We're all doing our own thing. I'll see Jan in our tent (Jane is sharing with her friend, Debbie). And sometimes I'll see them at dinner if I'm not involved in an incident at the time.
We don't have to be there until Friday of next week, so we're meeting on Thursday afternoon at our brother's house in Aurora. My sisters want to hit the new Outlet Mall near Jim and Karen's house. I'd love to do that but two things will stop me: No money, and I have a teleconference until 2:30 that day. So I'll hit the Chicago traffic and it'll take me longer than usual to get there. Probably 5 or 5:30.
That's okay, though. I won't have to feel bad that I can't buy anything at the Outlet Mall.
And we always have a fun time at Jim and Karen's, so that will be neat. Friday we'll take off in the morning because we'll need to be at "Event Eve" by 2 PM. More later on that.
The Avon Breast Cancer Walk is getting so close. I'm very excited about it. Besides all the hard work, it's fun spending the weekend with my sisters. However we only see each other on the fly during the Walk itself. We're all doing our own thing. I'll see Jan in our tent (Jane is sharing with her friend, Debbie). And sometimes I'll see them at dinner if I'm not involved in an incident at the time.
We don't have to be there until Friday of next week, so we're meeting on Thursday afternoon at our brother's house in Aurora. My sisters want to hit the new Outlet Mall near Jim and Karen's house. I'd love to do that but two things will stop me: No money, and I have a teleconference until 2:30 that day. So I'll hit the Chicago traffic and it'll take me longer than usual to get there. Probably 5 or 5:30.
That's okay, though. I won't have to feel bad that I can't buy anything at the Outlet Mall.
And we always have a fun time at Jim and Karen's, so that will be neat. Friday we'll take off in the morning because we'll need to be at "Event Eve" by 2 PM. More later on that.
Tuesday, May 24, 2005
5/24 More Snippets
Snippet: My 13 yo niece Sarah has always been one of my favorite people. Here's an example of why. We talked about the fact that her best friend is a boy. I told her I have many close male friends. She nodded and said, "I know. And you have some gay friends. I think that is so cool."
Snippet: At the Relay for Life there were several big sheets hung up, one for each year. Each was full of handprints and each handprint was placed there by a cancer survivor. The person also signed their handprints and put how long they've survived cancer. They ranged from more than 50 years to one day. That brought tears to my eyes.
As we walked by, reading the names, my sisters pointed out the people who were gone. Such a poignancy to that moment. Someone signing their handprint with hope toward a cancer-free future.
Snippet: Aunt Bonnie and Uncle Al were moved by the Relay for Life. They sat in the stands while we walked, but there was always someone sitting with them. I think each one of us sibs were just cherishing them and all that they mean to us, and have meant to us over the years.
Snippet: My sisters and I were there until about 10:30 PM. Joe and Cindy stayed longer. My sister-in-law, Paulette, worked until 11:30 and then came over and walked the track alone. I thought that was beautiful.
Jan and Jane grossed over $600 and after expenses should have about $500 or so to donate. It was time well spent.
Snippet: We were interviewed by a reporter from the Quincy Herald-Whig, and I was quoted in the final article. I'll see if I can scan it.
Snippet: My nephew, Cody, rode his unicycle around the track. He's another one of my favorite people. Ever since he was born I felt there was something special about him.
Snippet: My brothers, Joe, Jay and Jeff joined in the FourSquare playing on Saturday, with Joe playing with us the longest. I feel so blessed with our health situation. The ability to still PLAY is a gift I don't take lightly.
Snippet: While preparing food in her kitchen Jan turned to me and said, "You know, the likelihood is strong that one of us will get it." No need to specify what the "it" was--or who she meant by "us."
Snippet: Regarding our volunteer work--is it fear that drives us? Is it compassion? Probably a combination.
Snippet: On the plane from Quincy to St. Louis I met a fascinating guy. He and his partner are from Quincy but live in Hong Kong and have an export business. The keep a condo in Quincy because they kept the US base in our town. We discussed the wonders and the trials of flying frequently.
Snippet: Jane gave me lots of clothes. She's shrinking out of hers as I'm shrinking out of mine. I'm glad I'm still bigger than she is because I get the spoils of the dieting war.
Snippet: At Eric's party I ate Chocolate Lasagna. Omigod!
Snippet: One of my nieces broke up with her boyfriend. I hate seeing her so sad. I'm not her confidante, but I saw her cry on Jane's shoulder. I'm so glad she has someone to comfort her.
Snippet: Rolls from Underbrink's Bakery. The bakery is across the street from St. Francis Church and katty corner from St. Francis School. So it is obviously a favored place. We all have such memories of it. Many years ago a boy in John's class bought it and continues the tradition. Nut cups and nut rolls are the family favorites. Jane always buys them when someone comes to town. Bless her heart! Makes me love her; makes me hate her. I devoured more calories this weekend than I did the whole rest of the week.
I loved it.
Snippet: Aunt Jenny and Uncle Herb are celebrating their 60th wedding anniversary in June. Wish I could attend the party but I'll be in Detroit on business.
Snippet: I don't have many aunts and uncles left--Bonnie, Al, Herb, Jenny, Millie, Betty, Gene, Lolla, Angie, Alice, and Francis (Fran).
Guess I have more than I thought. Most are in their 80s. Another reason to want to be closer to home...or to have lots of frequent flyer miles accrued.
Snippet: There's a family reunion (on Mom's side) in July. These are with aunts, uncles and cousins. We have one a year on each side of the family. I love 'em. We grew up really close to many of our cousins--both geographically and emotionally. The ones who lived out of town said they were always jealous of the "Quincy cousins," because we had such fun together.
What they didn't know was that I was jealous of them too. Even then I wanted to travel and see everything. And even South Bend, Indiana sounded exciting in those days.
Un-Snippet: I took so many notes over the weekend, but there's no way I can capture how I feel about my family.
Snippet: At the Relay for Life there were several big sheets hung up, one for each year. Each was full of handprints and each handprint was placed there by a cancer survivor. The person also signed their handprints and put how long they've survived cancer. They ranged from more than 50 years to one day. That brought tears to my eyes.
As we walked by, reading the names, my sisters pointed out the people who were gone. Such a poignancy to that moment. Someone signing their handprint with hope toward a cancer-free future.
Snippet: Aunt Bonnie and Uncle Al were moved by the Relay for Life. They sat in the stands while we walked, but there was always someone sitting with them. I think each one of us sibs were just cherishing them and all that they mean to us, and have meant to us over the years.
Snippet: My sisters and I were there until about 10:30 PM. Joe and Cindy stayed longer. My sister-in-law, Paulette, worked until 11:30 and then came over and walked the track alone. I thought that was beautiful.
Jan and Jane grossed over $600 and after expenses should have about $500 or so to donate. It was time well spent.
Snippet: We were interviewed by a reporter from the Quincy Herald-Whig, and I was quoted in the final article. I'll see if I can scan it.
Snippet: My nephew, Cody, rode his unicycle around the track. He's another one of my favorite people. Ever since he was born I felt there was something special about him.
Snippet: My brothers, Joe, Jay and Jeff joined in the FourSquare playing on Saturday, with Joe playing with us the longest. I feel so blessed with our health situation. The ability to still PLAY is a gift I don't take lightly.
Snippet: While preparing food in her kitchen Jan turned to me and said, "You know, the likelihood is strong that one of us will get it." No need to specify what the "it" was--or who she meant by "us."
Snippet: Regarding our volunteer work--is it fear that drives us? Is it compassion? Probably a combination.
Snippet: On the plane from Quincy to St. Louis I met a fascinating guy. He and his partner are from Quincy but live in Hong Kong and have an export business. The keep a condo in Quincy because they kept the US base in our town. We discussed the wonders and the trials of flying frequently.
Snippet: Jane gave me lots of clothes. She's shrinking out of hers as I'm shrinking out of mine. I'm glad I'm still bigger than she is because I get the spoils of the dieting war.
Snippet: At Eric's party I ate Chocolate Lasagna. Omigod!
Snippet: One of my nieces broke up with her boyfriend. I hate seeing her so sad. I'm not her confidante, but I saw her cry on Jane's shoulder. I'm so glad she has someone to comfort her.
Snippet: Rolls from Underbrink's Bakery. The bakery is across the street from St. Francis Church and katty corner from St. Francis School. So it is obviously a favored place. We all have such memories of it. Many years ago a boy in John's class bought it and continues the tradition. Nut cups and nut rolls are the family favorites. Jane always buys them when someone comes to town. Bless her heart! Makes me love her; makes me hate her. I devoured more calories this weekend than I did the whole rest of the week.
I loved it.
Snippet: Aunt Jenny and Uncle Herb are celebrating their 60th wedding anniversary in June. Wish I could attend the party but I'll be in Detroit on business.
Snippet: I don't have many aunts and uncles left--Bonnie, Al, Herb, Jenny, Millie, Betty, Gene, Lolla, Angie, Alice, and Francis (Fran).
Guess I have more than I thought. Most are in their 80s. Another reason to want to be closer to home...or to have lots of frequent flyer miles accrued.
Snippet: There's a family reunion (on Mom's side) in July. These are with aunts, uncles and cousins. We have one a year on each side of the family. I love 'em. We grew up really close to many of our cousins--both geographically and emotionally. The ones who lived out of town said they were always jealous of the "Quincy cousins," because we had such fun together.
What they didn't know was that I was jealous of them too. Even then I wanted to travel and see everything. And even South Bend, Indiana sounded exciting in those days.
Un-Snippet: I took so many notes over the weekend, but there's no way I can capture how I feel about my family.
Monday, May 23, 2005
5/23 Catch-up
Lots of catching up to do at work, but today I mean catching up on my weekend activities. So much happened that I just wrote in "snippets," trying to encapsulate moments that either moved me, made me laugh, or both.
Snippet: So many thoughts, so much activity, so many people, so much love and laughter. Few disagreements as long as we steer clear of politics and religion.
Mostly I hung out with the kids, playing Guerilla FourSquare.
Snippet: Jane and Pete have been married for 20 years now. For their anniversary Jane designed a ring for Pete to give her (we Bozarth women are rather assertive). It's very beautiful--a big diamond in the middle and on either side is the birthstone of each of her children.
Jan agreed it was gorgeous but said she would rather have a tree.
We sat on Jan's brand new wraparound porch of their newly-built home and looked at the beauty surrounding us on their acreage.
Jane smiled, looked at the trees and held up her hand with the ring on it and said, "I can come to your house, enjoy your trees, while wearing my ring."
Don't know if it's funny reading it, but it was hilarious in person.
Snippet: Two nieces are pregnant. On with her second boy and one with her third. Both are so beautiful.
Snippet: During most of the party tons of people were playing FourSquare. From my age (57) all the way down to a five year old. Such fun, and everyone was nice to the little ones. Not so much to the old ones. But when the "big boys" of high school and college age wanted to play rougher, they said no kids or girls allowed (except Aunt Jer). I felt like I'd been crowned homecoming queen.
After a few rounds I said I thought Sarah should be allowed to play. She's my 13 y.o. niece. I said, "She can play rough and she's not a whiner." The boys said okay. Then a few minutes later I got a 12 y.o. girl in the game. They allowed her in "on probation," but she did fine. Others didn't want to play rough so they just watched or found something else to do.
Oh, how I loved it...my old, fat body actually moved where and when I wanted.
Snippet: I tried to get a self-portrait style picture with every niece and nephew there. You know--the dorky kind of picture you take by holding the camera yourself and as far out as possible.
I only skipped a few of the kids. Riley Jo didn't want me to hold her, neither did Blake. But I got a picture of Blake with me, with his dad Matt holding him. It was fine because Matt's my nephew and Blake is my great-nephew. Brandon left before I got to him. I think I was playing boy games at the time.
Some nieces/nephews of the clan weren't there--Jenna (her boyfriend Josh was having his graduation party); Adam (in NYC with his art class); Suzie and Liza (only nieces who seldom attend family functions); Rob, Jill, Kayla and Hunter (my kids and grandkids who live far away); and Craig (lives in Columbus OH). There were 13 there and 9 not there, with two more on the way.
Snippet: Eric is the nephew who was the recipient of the party. One of his good friends is the son of a college chum. I looked up and saw Tim and his wife, Amy. (I did have to ask what her name was...I'm old, what can I say? Thanks to Cindy for commenting on this entry.)
I finished my first two years at Quincy University (then it was Quincy College), which was about 1 1/2 blocks from my home. Beef (his nickname) was one of my best friends. At this late date I can confess I had such a crush on him. Beef and Ex were friends. His name was really Ed, but he said he came to Quincy on an exodus from New Jersey, so Ex it was. And my best female friend was Gerri Flynn. We were known as the Gerris or Jeris, depending on which one of us was spelling it. The four of us hung out a lot. Gerri was from New Jersey too.
Anyway it was good to see Tim (and Amy, and to meet Brian). They said next time I'm in town I should give them a call and we could do something. That would be great. Also Ex comes to town every five years and I'd love to see him too. Even though I ended up graduating from another school, I have such great memories of QC.
Tim is chair of the Social and Behavioral Sciences Department at the local community college and I asked him about working there when I retire. But as homesick as I'm getting, perhaps it will be sooner. There's also a job at QU that seems made for me, Director of Alumni Relations.
Too bad I love CPI so much. That would make the choice easy.
More snippets later. Back to work for now.
Snippet: So many thoughts, so much activity, so many people, so much love and laughter. Few disagreements as long as we steer clear of politics and religion.
Mostly I hung out with the kids, playing Guerilla FourSquare.
Snippet: Jane and Pete have been married for 20 years now. For their anniversary Jane designed a ring for Pete to give her (we Bozarth women are rather assertive). It's very beautiful--a big diamond in the middle and on either side is the birthstone of each of her children.
Jan agreed it was gorgeous but said she would rather have a tree.
We sat on Jan's brand new wraparound porch of their newly-built home and looked at the beauty surrounding us on their acreage.
Jane smiled, looked at the trees and held up her hand with the ring on it and said, "I can come to your house, enjoy your trees, while wearing my ring."
Don't know if it's funny reading it, but it was hilarious in person.
Snippet: Two nieces are pregnant. On with her second boy and one with her third. Both are so beautiful.
Snippet: During most of the party tons of people were playing FourSquare. From my age (57) all the way down to a five year old. Such fun, and everyone was nice to the little ones. Not so much to the old ones. But when the "big boys" of high school and college age wanted to play rougher, they said no kids or girls allowed (except Aunt Jer). I felt like I'd been crowned homecoming queen.
After a few rounds I said I thought Sarah should be allowed to play. She's my 13 y.o. niece. I said, "She can play rough and she's not a whiner." The boys said okay. Then a few minutes later I got a 12 y.o. girl in the game. They allowed her in "on probation," but she did fine. Others didn't want to play rough so they just watched or found something else to do.
Oh, how I loved it...my old, fat body actually moved where and when I wanted.
Snippet: I tried to get a self-portrait style picture with every niece and nephew there. You know--the dorky kind of picture you take by holding the camera yourself and as far out as possible.
I only skipped a few of the kids. Riley Jo didn't want me to hold her, neither did Blake. But I got a picture of Blake with me, with his dad Matt holding him. It was fine because Matt's my nephew and Blake is my great-nephew. Brandon left before I got to him. I think I was playing boy games at the time.
Some nieces/nephews of the clan weren't there--Jenna (her boyfriend Josh was having his graduation party); Adam (in NYC with his art class); Suzie and Liza (only nieces who seldom attend family functions); Rob, Jill, Kayla and Hunter (my kids and grandkids who live far away); and Craig (lives in Columbus OH). There were 13 there and 9 not there, with two more on the way.
Snippet: Eric is the nephew who was the recipient of the party. One of his good friends is the son of a college chum. I looked up and saw Tim and his wife, Amy. (I did have to ask what her name was...I'm old, what can I say? Thanks to Cindy for commenting on this entry.)
I finished my first two years at Quincy University (then it was Quincy College), which was about 1 1/2 blocks from my home. Beef (his nickname) was one of my best friends. At this late date I can confess I had such a crush on him. Beef and Ex were friends. His name was really Ed, but he said he came to Quincy on an exodus from New Jersey, so Ex it was. And my best female friend was Gerri Flynn. We were known as the Gerris or Jeris, depending on which one of us was spelling it. The four of us hung out a lot. Gerri was from New Jersey too.
Anyway it was good to see Tim (and Amy, and to meet Brian). They said next time I'm in town I should give them a call and we could do something. That would be great. Also Ex comes to town every five years and I'd love to see him too. Even though I ended up graduating from another school, I have such great memories of QC.
Tim is chair of the Social and Behavioral Sciences Department at the local community college and I asked him about working there when I retire. But as homesick as I'm getting, perhaps it will be sooner. There's also a job at QU that seems made for me, Director of Alumni Relations.
Too bad I love CPI so much. That would make the choice easy.
More snippets later. Back to work for now.
Sunday, May 22, 2005
5/22 Home
I just got home and am on my way out again to the Rec League at CSz. I have so much to blog about...spent a lot of time on the airplane writing in my journal. Will return tonight.
Right now I just want to say I'm smiling. It was a great weekend.
Right now I just want to say I'm smiling. It was a great weekend.
Saturday, May 21, 2005
5/21 Too tired to post
Today was so much fun, but I played FourSquare most of the afternoon and evening. My opponents were by and large college boys or recent high school graduates...and mostly nephews of mine. What a day! Will write more after I get home tomorrow night. Yawn.
Friday, May 20, 2005
5/20 Relay for Life
Wow. What a day. I got up at 4 AM in order to get to the airport in time. Got to Quincy at 10:15 and Jane picked me up. We went to Jan's house for lunch. Niece Jessi was there, so that was an added treat.
At the Relay for Life tonight, it was an unbelievable experience. We all wore T-shirts that said Aunt Bonnie's Bunch and we wore a pin with her picture. She and Uncle Al drove in from Springfield and she wasn't able to walk a lap with us, but she sat and watched as we walked laps in her honor.
The most tearful part for us was when we lit the luminaria. Picture thousands of them around a high school track. One by one loved ones lit them in honor of or in memory of others. We had them for Grandma and Grandpa Bozarth, and sis-in-law Cindy had them for her parents. I took some grand photos of the whole experience.
My sisters and I (and our brother Joe) sold plants and various other items to raise money for the Avon Breast Cancer Walk which is coming up in two weeks in Chicago. Another moving weekend.
I'm way too tired to type more tonight. Tomorrow morning we're meeting Aunt Bonnie and Uncle Al for breakfast, then at 3 is nephew Eric's high school graduation party. Should be a good day.
At the Relay for Life tonight, it was an unbelievable experience. We all wore T-shirts that said Aunt Bonnie's Bunch and we wore a pin with her picture. She and Uncle Al drove in from Springfield and she wasn't able to walk a lap with us, but she sat and watched as we walked laps in her honor.
The most tearful part for us was when we lit the luminaria. Picture thousands of them around a high school track. One by one loved ones lit them in honor of or in memory of others. We had them for Grandma and Grandpa Bozarth, and sis-in-law Cindy had them for her parents. I took some grand photos of the whole experience.
My sisters and I (and our brother Joe) sold plants and various other items to raise money for the Avon Breast Cancer Walk which is coming up in two weeks in Chicago. Another moving weekend.
I'm way too tired to type more tonight. Tomorrow morning we're meeting Aunt Bonnie and Uncle Al for breakfast, then at 3 is nephew Eric's high school graduation party. Should be a good day.
Thursday, May 19, 2005
5/19 Are you tired...
Are you tired of me saying how much I love my job? Sorry. If so, skip to the last paragraph.
Today I'm editing a journal (the one where I have an article and so does Laura and Desmond), writing and sending three press releases, gathering articles for a newsletter, and listening to the Band sing The Weight--one of my favorite songs. It's all great fun for me. And at 2 I'm meeting with the CEO to discuss an idea I had. I'm kind of excited about that, and think the meeting will have a positive result.
And at 6:50 AM tomorrow my plane leaves for Quincy.(I'm so excited to go home.)
Today I'm editing a journal (the one where I have an article and so does Laura and Desmond), writing and sending three press releases, gathering articles for a newsletter, and listening to the Band sing The Weight--one of my favorite songs. It's all great fun for me. And at 2 I'm meeting with the CEO to discuss an idea I had. I'm kind of excited about that, and think the meeting will have a positive result.
And at 6:50 AM tomorrow my plane leaves for Quincy.(I'm so excited to go home.)
Wednesday, May 18, 2005
5/18 Listening to Bangles
So much fun listening to music from the 80s.
Of course it's a busy busy day, but you know that makes me smile. I hate boredom. Passionately.
Have lots to do before I go to Quincy Friday morning. Won't be able to work a shift at CSz this weekend, and I'll miss that, but I will fly back in time for our Rec League match Sunday evening.
This picture was from last week when we were playing Da Doo Run Run--one game at which I showed a modicum of skill. So I guess I really like the game.
Of course it's a busy busy day, but you know that makes me smile. I hate boredom. Passionately.
Have lots to do before I go to Quincy Friday morning. Won't be able to work a shift at CSz this weekend, and I'll miss that, but I will fly back in time for our Rec League match Sunday evening.
This picture was from last week when we were playing Da Doo Run Run--one game at which I showed a modicum of skill. So I guess I really like the game.
Tuesday, May 17, 2005
5/17 I still love my job
It's odd. But every now and then I sit in my office and think about how incredibly lucky I am.
Sure I've worked hard to get where I am, to have this super job; but other people work hard too and don't get the privilege of doing what they love. I'm still glad as hell that I have my social work degrees and license. But writing and editing is what I was born to do--with acting on the side. :)
When I retire I'd love to do some freelance editing/writing, but also want to teach at the community college back home. Before I do that however, I really think I'm going to do the six months volunteer work with Doctors Without Borders. That keeps calling to me.
Ah, well, the hot salsa in my lunch must be going to my head...I'm just rambling.
Sure I've worked hard to get where I am, to have this super job; but other people work hard too and don't get the privilege of doing what they love. I'm still glad as hell that I have my social work degrees and license. But writing and editing is what I was born to do--with acting on the side. :)
When I retire I'd love to do some freelance editing/writing, but also want to teach at the community college back home. Before I do that however, I really think I'm going to do the six months volunteer work with Doctors Without Borders. That keeps calling to me.
Ah, well, the hot salsa in my lunch must be going to my head...I'm just rambling.
Monday, May 16, 2005
5/16 Friends
Had lunch with Tony today, a friend who works at the Medical College. We met at CSz, but he only went through the first two levels, I think. But we stayed friends because we have similar jobs and also a love of writing. For a time we were in a critique group with another friend, but my move to the UK put an end to that. We just haven't started up again.
But lunch was great. Tony is in a writing frenzy on his manuscript and I felt inspired after our conversation.
Now back to work, and the writing that I do to pay my bills.
But lunch was great. Tony is in a writing frenzy on his manuscript and I felt inspired after our conversation.
Now back to work, and the writing that I do to pay my bills.
Sunday, May 15, 2005
5/15 Rec League
We tailgated prior to the Rec League matches at CSz today. It was really fun. The matches were fun too. My team didn't win, so we're 2-1. But that's no big deal. In ComedySportz you just want the audience to be the big winners. We got good notes (feedback) from Dave and Tim, and I made the same mistake I always do...I used questions every now and then.
It was a good day.
It was a good day.
Saturday, May 14, 2005
5/14 Trading Spaces!
Yep, some people from CSz are going to be Trading Spaces with some other people from CSz. I can't wait to see how this pans out. They are all wonderful characters, so it will be a helluva show. They're filming in early June and that show will probably air about 8 weeks after. This will be fun.
Worked today, and enjoyed it. Just three more months until the World Championship in LA. That will be awesome!
Worked today, and enjoyed it. Just three more months until the World Championship in LA. That will be awesome!
Friday, May 13, 2005
5/13 Fun news--for me, anyway
I'm feeling pretty good. Have two COA site visits set up. One in June outside of Detroit and one in September in Brooklyn. I'm thrilled about the latter and will get together with my NY friends while there. They're the writers I was with in Las Vegas and I miss them already, so it will be nice to get a "fix" in September. We'll gather again next Spring--this time in Nashville.
And the one outside of Detroit doesn't sound like anything to get excited about. EXCEPT it's with one of my favorite people. Joyce and I did a site visit together in Vancouver BC a few years ago; it was a great surprise to see that she's the team leader again.
And the one outside of Detroit doesn't sound like anything to get excited about. EXCEPT it's with one of my favorite people. Joyce and I did a site visit together in Vancouver BC a few years ago; it was a great surprise to see that she's the team leader again.
Thursday, May 12, 2005
5/12 Stuff
Lots of stuff going on. Last night we had a staff meeting at CSz. Today at work there's a special project that came up that caused me to set other things aside. Tonight I work in the box office at CSz, and Saturday matinee also. Then Sunday is the FUN Rec League.
One of our managers is visiting our Japanese office right now, and another is leaving this weekend for our UK and Ireland offices. I'm insane with jealously.
One of our managers is visiting our Japanese office right now, and another is leaving this weekend for our UK and Ireland offices. I'm insane with jealously.
Wednesday, May 11, 2005
5/11 Horoscopes suck
'Nuff said about that.
Today I received some emails that just made me smile and almost giggle. Friends are awesome. I just need to figure out a way to get them all to move to Milwaukee and then be willing to transfer to Quincy with me when I retire.
I'm sure it's doable.
Today I received some emails that just made me smile and almost giggle. Friends are awesome. I just need to figure out a way to get them all to move to Milwaukee and then be willing to transfer to Quincy with me when I retire.
I'm sure it's doable.
Tuesday, May 10, 2005
5/10 Made my goal!
Thanks to a generous donation from the company I work for, I made my fundraising goal for the Avon Breast Cancer Walk. I'm thrilled!
As a crew member I don't have to raise a lot of money, but set a goal for $1000. As of today I'm at $1000. Am filled with a real sense of gratitude.
Changing the subject--accidentally read my horoscope today and this is supposed to be an awesome day for me. Financial--5 stars (fulfilled by evidence of the donation above); Work--4 stars; Romance--5 stars. So in the romance department I thought I'd just go outside and wait. Since nothing's going on in that realm, it makes sense that I let the universe know I'm available. When I told my friend Penny this, we decided to go to lunch and see if anything happens for me.
Nada.
But the food was good.
As a crew member I don't have to raise a lot of money, but set a goal for $1000. As of today I'm at $1000. Am filled with a real sense of gratitude.
Changing the subject--accidentally read my horoscope today and this is supposed to be an awesome day for me. Financial--5 stars (fulfilled by evidence of the donation above); Work--4 stars; Romance--5 stars. So in the romance department I thought I'd just go outside and wait. Since nothing's going on in that realm, it makes sense that I let the universe know I'm available. When I told my friend Penny this, we decided to go to lunch and see if anything happens for me.
Nada.
But the food was good.
Monday, May 09, 2005
5/9 No extra charge for more Blogging
Your Linguistic Profile: |
60% General American English |
20% Yankee |
10% Upper Midwestern |
5% Dixie |
5% Midwestern |
I've lived in so many places, from Hawaii to Georgia, but mostly in the mid-west, and still travel a lot, so my results don't surprise me. Post your results in a Comment, please. I'd love to compare. Jer
5/9 Back to work, but smiling
Yesterday was a good day.
This is really hard for me to believe. But yesterday was the 50th anniversary of my First Communion. Wow. May 8th, 1955. I was seven years old, all decked out in white, wearing what I considered the most beautiful dress in the world. In those days all the girls wore white veils too. Like little brides, I guess. Or vestal virgins. Or whatever. Doesn't matter the reason. We were delighted to be all dolled up for the biggest day of our lives up to that point. We studied Latin responses, we practiced sticking out our tongue to receive the Host. (No touching the wafer in those days. No siree. No chewing it either. That was the hardest part.)
The boys wore long cassocks of white with a red and gold sash and matching stole or something or other that fastened around their shoulders. We girls knew that we looked the best.
I remember that day so clearly. And the big party afterwards in the back yard, with all the relatives coming. I got so many presents--but the one I remember the most was a statue of Mary from my godfather, Uncle Bob.
When I spoke to 5 year-old grand-daughter, Kayla, yesterday, I told her I finally finished unpacking from my trip. She asked if I found my surprise. I said, "Oh, you're the one who put the sucker in my suitcase. I couldn't imagine how that got in there." She laughed and said that I was always giving her presents so she wanted to give me a surprise too. Then she made me promise to let her know how I liked it and what it tasted like. What a sweetie. I wrote her an email letting her know all the details. I'm a lucky bug.
CSz Rec League was so much fun last night. I'm so glad I'm involved. But the scoring was a little different this time, so the only two teams whose averages didn't go down were the two teams that had a bye week. Funny. No big deal, but I just think it's funny.
This is really hard for me to believe. But yesterday was the 50th anniversary of my First Communion. Wow. May 8th, 1955. I was seven years old, all decked out in white, wearing what I considered the most beautiful dress in the world. In those days all the girls wore white veils too. Like little brides, I guess. Or vestal virgins. Or whatever. Doesn't matter the reason. We were delighted to be all dolled up for the biggest day of our lives up to that point. We studied Latin responses, we practiced sticking out our tongue to receive the Host. (No touching the wafer in those days. No siree. No chewing it either. That was the hardest part.)
The boys wore long cassocks of white with a red and gold sash and matching stole or something or other that fastened around their shoulders. We girls knew that we looked the best.
I remember that day so clearly. And the big party afterwards in the back yard, with all the relatives coming. I got so many presents--but the one I remember the most was a statue of Mary from my godfather, Uncle Bob.
When I spoke to 5 year-old grand-daughter, Kayla, yesterday, I told her I finally finished unpacking from my trip. She asked if I found my surprise. I said, "Oh, you're the one who put the sucker in my suitcase. I couldn't imagine how that got in there." She laughed and said that I was always giving her presents so she wanted to give me a surprise too. Then she made me promise to let her know how I liked it and what it tasted like. What a sweetie. I wrote her an email letting her know all the details. I'm a lucky bug.
CSz Rec League was so much fun last night. I'm so glad I'm involved. But the scoring was a little different this time, so the only two teams whose averages didn't go down were the two teams that had a bye week. Funny. No big deal, but I just think it's funny.
Sunday, May 08, 2005
5/8 Happy Mothers' Day
I was on the phone a while ago with my friend, Debbie, from California and I heard a noise. Didn't realize until it was too late that it was Call Waiting. When Deb and I finished I listened to my phone message. It was Rob from Japan telling me how much he loves me and how happy he is that I'm his Mom. He also said that he was going to bed. It was nearly 2 AM there, so I couldn't call him back.
I'm sad about that.
But thrilled about the message. And I know Jill will call later today too. I'm such a lucky bug to have such wonderful kids.
Once, a guy I dated went with me to LA to visit Jill when Rob was there too. My friend said he couldn't believe the relationship I had with my kids...that we were so free and easy with each other, like friends. I told him that the best reward for being a parent is to have kids that grow into adults that you'd want as friends. Both my kids fill that bill for me. I enjoy their company so much.
I enjoyed working at CSz last night. Stayed later than usual because James, the manager of the LA company, was visiting his Mom in Milwaukee for Mothers' Day. It was nice to chat--remembering the fun of last year's World Championship, and looking forward to the next one in Los Angeles at the end of August. It's cool too that my friend Joanne and her boyfriend Lynn are both celebrating their 60th birthdays that week, so I'll be able to go to their party in Orange County.
Sometimes I think I should just move out there as Jill asks...it would cost me less in travel money. Except then I'd have to fly to Quincy to see my sibs. Guess the real answer is to win the lottery so I'm independently wealthy.
Too bad I don't play.
I'm sad about that.
But thrilled about the message. And I know Jill will call later today too. I'm such a lucky bug to have such wonderful kids.
Once, a guy I dated went with me to LA to visit Jill when Rob was there too. My friend said he couldn't believe the relationship I had with my kids...that we were so free and easy with each other, like friends. I told him that the best reward for being a parent is to have kids that grow into adults that you'd want as friends. Both my kids fill that bill for me. I enjoy their company so much.
I enjoyed working at CSz last night. Stayed later than usual because James, the manager of the LA company, was visiting his Mom in Milwaukee for Mothers' Day. It was nice to chat--remembering the fun of last year's World Championship, and looking forward to the next one in Los Angeles at the end of August. It's cool too that my friend Joanne and her boyfriend Lynn are both celebrating their 60th birthdays that week, so I'll be able to go to their party in Orange County.
Sometimes I think I should just move out there as Jill asks...it would cost me less in travel money. Except then I'd have to fly to Quincy to see my sibs. Guess the real answer is to win the lottery so I'm independently wealthy.
Too bad I don't play.
Saturday, May 07, 2005
5/7 Saturday is a good day
After receiving the flowers late last night, I was already in a good mood. I slept until 9 which is unheard of, but it felt wonderful. At 10 I went to breakfast at Family Table, a restaurant about 1/2 block from me. Then I walked for 3 miles with the music from my iPod reverberating in my ears.
Well, maybe I should say "ear." My left ear is still pretty blocked, but not quite as bad as it was. I've not skipped a dose of the antibiotic, so it should be getting better soon.
Now I'm finishing my laundry, playing online Scrabble, and will work from 5-11 tonight at ComedySportz.
Well, maybe I should say "ear." My left ear is still pretty blocked, but not quite as bad as it was. I've not skipped a dose of the antibiotic, so it should be getting better soon.
Now I'm finishing my laundry, playing online Scrabble, and will work from 5-11 tonight at ComedySportz.
5/7 Surprise flowers
What a wonderful surprise. I received flowers tonight from Rob and Beata. So lovely to know they're thinking of me even though they're a million miles away. Beata said the flowers weren't supposed to arrive this early, but I'm glad they did, so I can enjoy them at home all weekend.
I put the flowers by a picture of Rob and Beatka...
I put the flowers by a picture of Rob and Beatka...
Friday, May 06, 2005
5/6 My soup got cold so I ate ice cream
That makes total sense to me. I heated some tofu onion soup. Smelled wonderful. Got called into the Exec. Director's office to assist with a reporter. Back to my office where the soup was warm, but I didn't get to taste it because I got called back into the same office for the same reason. Then my soup was cold and tasted horrible. I knew it wouldn't taste good even if re-heated. So I went to the freezer in the lunchroom and saw we had lots of ice cream left from various birthdays. Nice lunch.
Got this from the blog of my friend Bron in the UK, who stole it from her mother's blog (Mum lives in Wisconsin, about an hour and a half from me). After reading my answers, they are so very weak. I'm either boring or deranged. Or maybe a bit of both.
1. YOUR PORN STAR NAME: (Name of first pet / Street you live on) Queenie Park Plaza
2. YOUR MOVIE STAR NAME: (Name of your favorite snack food / Grandfather's first name) Popcorn Gail
3. YOUR FASHION DESIGNER NAME: (First word you see on your left / Favorite restaurant) Comedy Lotus of Siam
4. EXOTIC FOREIGNER ALIAS: (Favorite Spice / Last Foreign Vacation Spot) Pepper Conwy
5. SOCIALITE ALIAS: (Silliest Childhood Nickname / Town Where You First Partied) Bozo Quincy
6."FLY Boy/Girl" ALIAS (a la J. Lo): (First Initial/First Two or Three Letters of your Last Name) J Du
7. ICON ALIAS: (Something Sweet Within Sight / Any Liquid in Your Kitchen) Banana Soy Sauce
8. DETECTIVE ALIAS: (Favorite Baby Animal / Where You Went to High School) Puppy Notre Dame
9. BARFLY ALIAS: (Last Snack Food You Ate / Your Favorite Alcoholic Drink) Ice Cream Beer
10. SOAP OPERA ALIAS: (Middle Name / Street Where You First Lived) Clare Lind or Clare Fifth. I suddenly can't remember whether my parents lived with her folks or his folks when I was born.
11. ROCK STAR ALIAS: (Favorite Candy / Last Name Of Favorite Musician) Snickers McCartney
Got this from the blog of my friend Bron in the UK, who stole it from her mother's blog (Mum lives in Wisconsin, about an hour and a half from me). After reading my answers, they are so very weak. I'm either boring or deranged. Or maybe a bit of both.
1. YOUR PORN STAR NAME: (Name of first pet / Street you live on) Queenie Park Plaza
2. YOUR MOVIE STAR NAME: (Name of your favorite snack food / Grandfather's first name) Popcorn Gail
3. YOUR FASHION DESIGNER NAME: (First word you see on your left / Favorite restaurant) Comedy Lotus of Siam
4. EXOTIC FOREIGNER ALIAS: (Favorite Spice / Last Foreign Vacation Spot) Pepper Conwy
5. SOCIALITE ALIAS: (Silliest Childhood Nickname / Town Where You First Partied) Bozo Quincy
6."FLY Boy/Girl" ALIAS (a la J. Lo): (First Initial/First Two or Three Letters of your Last Name) J Du
7. ICON ALIAS: (Something Sweet Within Sight / Any Liquid in Your Kitchen) Banana Soy Sauce
8. DETECTIVE ALIAS: (Favorite Baby Animal / Where You Went to High School) Puppy Notre Dame
9. BARFLY ALIAS: (Last Snack Food You Ate / Your Favorite Alcoholic Drink) Ice Cream Beer
10. SOAP OPERA ALIAS: (Middle Name / Street Where You First Lived) Clare Lind or Clare Fifth. I suddenly can't remember whether my parents lived with her folks or his folks when I was born.
11. ROCK STAR ALIAS: (Favorite Candy / Last Name Of Favorite Musician) Snickers McCartney
Thursday, May 05, 2005
5/5 Am I still sick? You betcha!
A friend asked me today about which kind of writing feeds my soul (paraphrased)--the technical writing I do for work or the creative writing I do on my own.
Here's what I said, with very few edits:
I've been published LOTS, but in non-fiction and that's just not my love. Like you I enjoy taking things out of the air, wrapping my brain around it, and writing something that others will enjoy. In my case, it's usually comedic, but we're all different.
Writing for my stand-up act is different still--the performing arts versus the written. Yet, it has to be written before it can be performed (unless it's improv), so it still counts as creative writing.
When I worked with the prisoners in the Writers' Club and we wrote that play, it was such an awesome experience. And since we were just in the very beginning of the Club, I did most--actually all--of the final writing. They wrote snippets, gave me ideas, and applauded the completed work (oh, and told me when I made a mistake and left the prison reality for my own).
On and on and on I go... I'm tired out. Worked so hard today and forgot I was sick most of the time. But now I know it...I'm just beat. Today we had an urgent matter with an interview with a major newspaper, so my other work got put on hold. But not really, ya know? Just temporarily, the newspaper went to the head of the line. Now I'm still overwhelmed with other "stuff." Oops, I forgot to write my blog. Maybe this entry will suffice, with a few edits.
Thanks for making me think. Jer
PS--No complaints about so much to do. I LOVE MY JOB!
Here's what I said, with very few edits:
I've been published LOTS, but in non-fiction and that's just not my love. Like you I enjoy taking things out of the air, wrapping my brain around it, and writing something that others will enjoy. In my case, it's usually comedic, but we're all different.
Writing for my stand-up act is different still--the performing arts versus the written. Yet, it has to be written before it can be performed (unless it's improv), so it still counts as creative writing.
When I worked with the prisoners in the Writers' Club and we wrote that play, it was such an awesome experience. And since we were just in the very beginning of the Club, I did most--actually all--of the final writing. They wrote snippets, gave me ideas, and applauded the completed work (oh, and told me when I made a mistake and left the prison reality for my own).
On and on and on I go... I'm tired out. Worked so hard today and forgot I was sick most of the time. But now I know it...I'm just beat. Today we had an urgent matter with an interview with a major newspaper, so my other work got put on hold. But not really, ya know? Just temporarily, the newspaper went to the head of the line. Now I'm still overwhelmed with other "stuff." Oops, I forgot to write my blog. Maybe this entry will suffice, with a few edits.
Thanks for making me think. Jer
PS--No complaints about so much to do. I LOVE MY JOB!
Wednesday, May 04, 2005
5/4 BLAH!!!!
I'm working from home today. Still so much to do, I filled my backpack, plus another bag.
Doc said I had a sinus infection, and put me on antibiotics, but said something like I might feel worse before I feel better. My ears are driving me up the wall.
Maybe ice cream will help.
To cheer me--here's a picture of a tea party I attended with a five year old in LA.
Doc said I had a sinus infection, and put me on antibiotics, but said something like I might feel worse before I feel better. My ears are driving me up the wall.
Maybe ice cream will help.
To cheer me--here's a picture of a tea party I attended with a five year old in LA.
Tuesday, May 03, 2005
5/3 Under a pile of work on my desk
I'm hiding under the mounds of work. No time to blog, so I'll post a few more pictures of my grandkids. They're wearing frog sunglasses given to them by my friend, Joanne.
Kayla has the "movie star pose" down pat. Look at the stars in her eyes.
Monday, May 02, 2005
5/2 Rec League and Kayla's birthday
Had a great time at our first Rec League match. We won the match, but in ComedySportz that doesn't really mean a lot. The whole point is to entertain the audience and to have fun. So the win/lose thing is basically no big deal. But did that stop us from being competitive? No way.
We did have fun, and I hope the audience was entertained. I have some friends coming next week so I hope we'll get some cheers and more audience votes.
It was funny, during one game we had to try to jump up in front of the group to tell a joke. And it got a lot a little physical. One guy apologized afterward for pushing me. He said, "For a moment there I thought I was _______." He mentioned another player's name. Made me laugh out loud.
We have bright yellow, almost gold T-shirts with the ComedySportz logo embroidered on the front. On the back we have the name of our team--On Parole. And our individual names. We hoped the bright color would make us stand out. At least the rest of my team hoped that. I just wanted a color that brought out the color of my eyes. I don't think that's too vain--you?
Kayla and Hunter looking like a couple of Motown dancers, but actually they're doing a bit from Dora the Explorer. Today is Kayla's 5th birthday.
We did have fun, and I hope the audience was entertained. I have some friends coming next week so I hope we'll get some cheers and more audience votes.
It was funny, during one game we had to try to jump up in front of the group to tell a joke. And it got a lot a little physical. One guy apologized afterward for pushing me. He said, "For a moment there I thought I was _______." He mentioned another player's name. Made me laugh out loud.
We have bright yellow, almost gold T-shirts with the ComedySportz logo embroidered on the front. On the back we have the name of our team--On Parole. And our individual names. We hoped the bright color would make us stand out. At least the rest of my team hoped that. I just wanted a color that brought out the color of my eyes. I don't think that's too vain--you?
Kayla and Hunter looking like a couple of Motown dancers, but actually they're doing a bit from Dora the Explorer. Today is Kayla's 5th birthday.
Sunday, May 01, 2005
5/1 It's May...where's SPRING?
After being in LV and LA for 8 days, it seems really really cold here in Wisconsin. Is it just because it's 40 degrees? Or maybe because I left a lot of hugging and kissing?
Being with such close friends, who aren't afraid to be physically close as well, makes the opposite situation even more difficult. And leaving my beautiful daughter and grandchildren at the airport reminded me just how much I miss them.
So now I'm sitting in front of the computer trying to give myself a hug. Not very successfully.
(I know this is just the "after visit blahs." This will go away soon.)
Today is my team's first match in the CSz Rec League. I'm psyched. But one of our players can't make it today... he got called into work at the last minute.
We'll have fun anyway. And our shirts are cool. They're gold (NOT my favorite color) and have the CSz logo on the front, with our team name and individual name on the back. I'll post later about how it goes.
Being with such close friends, who aren't afraid to be physically close as well, makes the opposite situation even more difficult. And leaving my beautiful daughter and grandchildren at the airport reminded me just how much I miss them.
So now I'm sitting in front of the computer trying to give myself a hug. Not very successfully.
(I know this is just the "after visit blahs." This will go away soon.)
Today is my team's first match in the CSz Rec League. I'm psyched. But one of our players can't make it today... he got called into work at the last minute.
We'll have fun anyway. And our shirts are cool. They're gold (NOT my favorite color) and have the CSz logo on the front, with our team name and individual name on the back. I'll post later about how it goes.
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