Here's the thing about Winters around here. They feel like they will never ever end. So, in January and February, when you have to wade through a minimum of three feet of cold miserable snow to get anywhere, it is easy to think that all things nice weather and summer are millenniums away.
During that time, as you snuggle under a blanket in some rare recliner time, and even rarer alone time with the iPad, it's easy to start imagining that by nice weather, somewhere in the very distant future, you will be a size nothing and in shape, and begin signing up for things. Lots of things. Races and Mountain trail climbing things. Four months of them, exactly. Committing and then PAYING for these things, thus ensuring that you cannot get out of them without considerable guilt and letting down multiple people.
Only, eventually, the snow melts, and the sun makes it's brief yearly appearance and the realization sets in that: We are NOT a size nothing, nor are we in any shape to run races or climb mountains.
At any rate, I have signed up for 3 5K races and also booked a B&B near Lake Placid in the Adirondacks this fall, and announced the intention to hike up the trails of 2 peaks. The person who panted up Cemetery Hill in Franklinville, cussing under her labored breathing by the time she got to the statue in the middle of the cemetery every morning at or around the hour of dawn last summer, is going to hike not one, but TWO mountains in October.
Unless it rains. And then, I will probably curl up in my B&B bed and sleep for the entire weekend. Could go either way at this point. But, since October is approximately 4 millions years away, and I am sure I will be in shape and a size nothing by then, I am sure it will be fine.
Update on Sunday School: One more class to go. Till next September... I have declined teaching the older kids, and I think will stick with my 7th grade class. Anyhow, we all survived it, and I am lightning bolt free, so, I think we did adequately. I hesitate to rate myself above "Adequate" though.
Update on the van: It still continues to be irritatingly wonderful, for a vehicle I did not want. Seriously. That van has been great. Now that there is no snow to make me feel like I will probably not survive the drive to wherever I am going.
It has all this storage, and places to put all my gear, as I head from one job to another and grab people and things when needed, and still fit everyone and everything comfortably. So, I suppose it will do. And I might be kind of liking it now. I have tentatively named it "Huckleberry" Because of that line in "Tombstone" by Doc Holiday "I'll be yer Huckleberry" and, since everyone should probably have a Huckleberry, I have designated my new van. It cannot be "Ratchet" like the last vehicle.
This past weekend was the Franklinville Annual Maple Fest. My children are all of the age to be "In" something or other, and all the things they are in are also incorporated into the Maple Fest. Three out of four of them marched in the parade. Jasin and I watched from the sidelines with Lexi and a friend of Kaila's. Said friend announced in horror that she does NOT eat "Street candy", so, Lexi happily cleaned up all the candy tossed our way.
There was the Scout candy sale that Joe was in. There was the Beef on Weck room in the school, for Lexi's swim club. That got a little weird though. The hurried instructions as to how everything works, as the departing parents left their shifts, failed to mention the broken electric coffee maker. One of those big coffee pots that you fill will water, put the coffee grounds in the top, plug in, and let go? One of those. Anyhow, the temps dropped considerably, and people wanted coffee. And we ran out. And I frantically tried to make more, as people looked on at my complete incompetence. I plugged the coffee pot in, as it was already full of water and coffee grounds, and there was this LOUD "ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZAP" sound, the cord became very hot, and all things plugged in in that vicinity stopped working.
In total inept desperation, I took the carafe of hot water, put in what I THOUGHT looked like possibly an appropriate amount of coffee grounds, and shook it as hard as I could, while trying as hard as possible to look like I knew what I was doing, as the fascinated customers looked on. (In my defense, I am a tea drinker. Unless it is pre-packaged restaurant coffee, I haven't the slightest idea how to make coffee. True story.)
Anyway, when, with a whispered plea to the heavens for decent coffee to appear, I poured it out, it came out as thick coffee ground sludge.
"I am so sorry. We are out of coffee." I announced. Possibly to the relief of all onlookers. We found out about an hour later that there was a different coffee pot at the back of the room, full of nice hot coffee ground-free coffee.
The Maple Fest closed with the "Franklinville's Got Talent" show. Kaila had signed up to sing a duet with a friend. Her friend spent the entire weekend at our house so they could practice. Mostly though, her friend was on her phone texting and calling various people. They did some sporadic practicing, and were the first to perform.
For the little bit of sporadic practicing they did, those girls sounded great! And when Kaila began to belt out her first solo part, my jaw dropped open. OMG, that girl just FILLED the auditorium! I could not believe what I was hearing! She sounded just amazing. They didn't win, but, I had an entirely new respect for my daughter's voice talent.
Also, was the annual library book sale. The old ladies weren't nearly as vicious this year, and the line to the door was peaceable, as was the controlled stampede into the library when the doors opened. I think that maybe someday, I will have to be like the old ladies of the book sale fame, just to keep tradition alive. It wasn't nearly as much fun without them.
After the book sale, I lugged my box of books home, and the kids lugged their bags of books home, and I looked around and realized that there is just no place to put anymore books. There are literally piles of them. So, on the way home from the beef on weck debacle, I happened along a furniture sale, and scored a big book case for next to nothing. Along with a small table that needs refinishing, that I have absolutely no place to put.
Because of the craziness of the weekend, and working both jobs most of this week, the large book case, the small table, and a dresser from LAST weekend, are now sitting in the middle of my dinning room. I have no idea where to put any of them. But they will look GREAT when I DO! I hope.
And that, my friends, is the excitement around my household lately. Once I have a relatively decent weekend and some time, I have lots of plans for the front porch garden, and have already picked spray paint colors for the wicker set I found recently, and all my big metal milk cans. Think: candy colored pastels...I can't wait!
Tuesday, April 28, 2015
Tuesday, March 31, 2015
Thug Life
Entirely too much time has been spent away from my kids. At least, if the conversations yesterday were any indication.
Yesterday the kids began Spring Break from school. Something Super Mom here honestly didn't realize. It also dawned with: George out of bed and up for the day at 1am, 2am, and 4:30 am respectively, and a migraine that ended with a 2 hour long bloody nose for this already anemic Mama.
I decided the Universe was telling me to stay home and try to stop bleeding all over the place. Also, I wouldn't see my kids again till Saturday. Also, I had nothing in place for the kids for Spring Break, thinking I had a week to think about it still. So, I called in, managed to stop the bleeding an hour later, and went back to bed for another hour.
After which, the kids and I had a "Let's use all the gift cards we have lying around the house!!!" Day in Buffalo. Did I have the energy? No. Did we really need some Mom and kid time away from the mundane? Yes.
The hour long drive to Buffalo picked up on a recent conversation that Kaila and I had. During which my almost 14 year old informed me that she really needs leather. Maybe a jacket, or whatever. But, she would like more leather in her wardrobe.
A few days later, she emailed me a picture of a 3-D full arm tattoo of what looked like
a robotic arm under what looked like torn skin, with the tag line "I NEED THIS TATTOO!!!!!!"
And THIS is what happens, when you let your teenager get her hair dipped purple. One day, we are trying out for the school play, and singing opera in the shower, and the next, we have purple hair, and requests for leather and tattoos.
Yesterday's conversation centered around her 21st Birthday, and the likely probability that she will end it quite drunk after a party, during which her first beer will "probably be a Bud, because I like their commercials."
At which Lexi (aged 11) announced that Kaila will be 21 right after Lexi is 18, and "OLD ENOUGH TO GAMBLE!!!!"
"WHAT???!!!!!!"
"VOTE! I meant VOTE, Mom!"
This was followed by a maternal whimper, and Joe piping up that I have at least ONE good kid (Himself...). George is a total loss, as far as they are concerned. (Another thing about the lack of Mom presence. George has become a terror of epic proportions around the house lately.)
George, after silence in the back row announced "My butt hurts, Mama!"
"Why does your butt hurt, George?"
"Because it has a CRACK IN IT!!!! HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAAAAAAA!!!!!!!"
George has also recently informed me that he needs to grow his hair out, so he can have a mohawk. Evidently his "Bros" at school have dictated this, so, he must.
At the end of the day, the kids and I had a good time. Tattoos, purple hair, plans of drunken parties and gambling, mohawks, and everything.
We visited the Science Museum. We had lunch. We went to the movies where George only had to go potty twice, and we stopped for ice cream on the way home.
I did not bleed anymore, and, as determined as I am to NOT like the minivan, the kids fit beautifully and comfortably in it. It was a good day overall.
I also discovered the stow and go storage this weekend while grocery shopping. It was seriously SO handy and amazing, that I dragged Bearded Man over to check it out. And that is what is exciting in my life right now. Minivan features. Here is Super Mama, checking out Stow and Go, and marveling over push button lift gates, while my kid Googles tattoos and leather.
I suppose I can hope for the best. But plan for the worst. Next up: Googling how to bake cakes with files inside. Just in case.
Yesterday the kids began Spring Break from school. Something Super Mom here honestly didn't realize. It also dawned with: George out of bed and up for the day at 1am, 2am, and 4:30 am respectively, and a migraine that ended with a 2 hour long bloody nose for this already anemic Mama.
I decided the Universe was telling me to stay home and try to stop bleeding all over the place. Also, I wouldn't see my kids again till Saturday. Also, I had nothing in place for the kids for Spring Break, thinking I had a week to think about it still. So, I called in, managed to stop the bleeding an hour later, and went back to bed for another hour.
After which, the kids and I had a "Let's use all the gift cards we have lying around the house!!!" Day in Buffalo. Did I have the energy? No. Did we really need some Mom and kid time away from the mundane? Yes.
The hour long drive to Buffalo picked up on a recent conversation that Kaila and I had. During which my almost 14 year old informed me that she really needs leather. Maybe a jacket, or whatever. But, she would like more leather in her wardrobe.
A few days later, she emailed me a picture of a 3-D full arm tattoo of what looked like
a robotic arm under what looked like torn skin, with the tag line "I NEED THIS TATTOO!!!!!!"
And THIS is what happens, when you let your teenager get her hair dipped purple. One day, we are trying out for the school play, and singing opera in the shower, and the next, we have purple hair, and requests for leather and tattoos.
Yesterday's conversation centered around her 21st Birthday, and the likely probability that she will end it quite drunk after a party, during which her first beer will "probably be a Bud, because I like their commercials."
At which Lexi (aged 11) announced that Kaila will be 21 right after Lexi is 18, and "OLD ENOUGH TO GAMBLE!!!!"
"WHAT???!!!!!!"
"VOTE! I meant VOTE, Mom!"
This was followed by a maternal whimper, and Joe piping up that I have at least ONE good kid (Himself...). George is a total loss, as far as they are concerned. (Another thing about the lack of Mom presence. George has become a terror of epic proportions around the house lately.)
George, after silence in the back row announced "My butt hurts, Mama!"
"Why does your butt hurt, George?"
"Because it has a CRACK IN IT!!!! HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAAAAAAA!!!!!!!"
George has also recently informed me that he needs to grow his hair out, so he can have a mohawk. Evidently his "Bros" at school have dictated this, so, he must.
At the end of the day, the kids and I had a good time. Tattoos, purple hair, plans of drunken parties and gambling, mohawks, and everything.
We visited the Science Museum. We had lunch. We went to the movies where George only had to go potty twice, and we stopped for ice cream on the way home.
I did not bleed anymore, and, as determined as I am to NOT like the minivan, the kids fit beautifully and comfortably in it. It was a good day overall.
I also discovered the stow and go storage this weekend while grocery shopping. It was seriously SO handy and amazing, that I dragged Bearded Man over to check it out. And that is what is exciting in my life right now. Minivan features. Here is Super Mama, checking out Stow and Go, and marveling over push button lift gates, while my kid Googles tattoos and leather.
I suppose I can hope for the best. But plan for the worst. Next up: Googling how to bake cakes with files inside. Just in case.
Wednesday, March 25, 2015
A Minivan Can't be a Transformer
It's really been awhile since I have had the time to update this Blog. Where to even begin?
I am now the owner of a minivan. This is still a semi - raw subject in the household. I wanted another SUV, for the safety and performance that I need out of a vehicle, but, Bearded Man kept pushing for a minivan. Somehow, I left the house to go grocery shopping one day, with Bearded Man in tow, and ended up buying milk, bread, veggies, fruit, stuff for school and work lunches, and a mini van. It's nice, but, doesn't handle very well in the snow. It has added an entirely new level of excitement to my commute.
I think it is only fair that I get to chose his next vehicle. I have found that the Prius is a very responsible car, fuel efficient, able to hold the same amount of passengers as his current vehicle, and are also available in a variety of pastel colors.
Eventually I will probably bond with the van. It has absolutely no potential to morph into a Transformer though, while my last vehicle looked like it MIGHT be able to, if it had to.
The van was put into service to drive myself and two other moms to Buffalo, to meet up with the Pre School class to see Sesame Street.
George was beyond excited about this trip. It was really talked about at school, with songs, crafts, activities, and a general frenzy of excitement.
Every morning he would wake up and ask how many more days till Sesame Street.
The day of the Big Trip dawned, and he could barely contain himself. He made sure I knew how to get there. He advised me to follow the bus, if I wasn't completely sure how to find my way.
Once in the theater and seated, I was instructed to check the time on my phone approximately every 4 seconds, to see how much longer before it started.
Finally, the show began, and the characters all danced out onto the stage. "WHAT??? THOSE ARE JUST PEOPLE DRESSED UP!!!! I am NOT watching this." he announced. And, he didn't, either. While his friends and class sang and danced, George begged to go home. He begged to just be able to leave. He begged to go someplace "fun" he begged to go stand in the lobby. He hung over my shoulder and tried to get his teacher's attention, to ask what time it ended.
When asked what his favorite part was, he didn't hesitate. "The ENDING. When we could LEAVE."
Exactly one week later, the van took myself and Kaila back up to Buffalo, to the same theater to see The Phantom of the Opera. I am the biggest fan in the entire world, with Kaila a close second. This was her first time seeing the show, and she was not disappointed. We had the best day, playing hooky from school and work, to catch the afternoon show and go out to dinner together. (Where, incidentally, we ran into one of my brothers completely unexpectedly.)
Mostly though, the van drives me from one job to another. Pretty much all I do at home anymore is sleep. The energy I am putting into this Blog today should honestly be spent apologizing to Lexi's swim team. Last night was the swim banquet. Not only was I supposed to help plan/execute it, per the beginning of the year committee decree, but, we were also supposed to contribute a dish to pass. None of which happened. Nor was I able to make it to the banquet.
Working both jobs, some things are just not possible. Such as housework. I really need to beg people to please not visit my house anytime soon. I have this weekend off, due to a scheduling error. There is a possibility that I will be able to clean this weekend. Or not. But either way, my house is nowhere near up to my standards for company. I am sure I own a dining room table and counter tops. I am not sure, however, where they are or what they look like.
I can also write the grocery list in the dust on assorted surfaces, create new medicines with the penicillin in the refrigerator, construct 4 new dogs and a puppy from the dog hair around the house, star in a "Febreeze" and/or "Swiffer" commercial, and make Martha Stewart cry. My poor house.
I cleaned it a few weeks ago, on a Saturday before I went to work. When I was home again Sunday night after work, it was actually WORSE than before I had cleaned it. The time is honestly much better spent sleeping.
Over lunch the other day, I announced to the entire family that they need to step up the "helping out around the house" game. If I were to announce to my entire family that I had announced that, not one of them would remember. I am just not home enough to enforce it.
The reason we were at lunch the other day, was a stop after an impromptu trip to the craft store, to find knitting needles for Lexi.
Lexi is my kid that is all about her artistic self. She has always been able to create amazing things out of anything. She is happiest when surrounded by anything she can create with. Pens, paper, crayons, paint, fabric, thread, yarn; anything.
Recently, she decided to learn how to knit. Using BBQ skewers, her school iPad, an app, and You Tube, she learned!
If a kid is THAT dedicated and determined, the least I can do is get her some proper knitting needles.
Which turned into a whole family outing. Which turned into six of us staring confusedly at the knitting needle display, while annoyed women who know what they are doing tried to get around us to pluck exactly what they needed off the racks.
I turned to my trusty Facebook friends, who had lots of tips and suggestions, and a private message from a friend who offered some of her unused knitting needles. Lexi was thrilled. "YAY!!! No more splinters!!!!" She announced in front of at least a dozen startled women. She has already knitted me a bookmark and a coaster.
Pretty much, that's life in a nutshell. I wish I had more to write, but, honestly, my days consist of working one or both jobs, and trying to cram as much as possible into the time I do have off. My ray of light right now, is a planned vacation in August. We have rented a cottage on Black Lake near the Adirondacks, by recommendation of a coworker.
Also planned this summer, are 3 5k fun races, and a possibly climbing 2 Adirondack mountains. Which means I need to start getting up early again, now that the weather seems to think it may improve soon, put my trusty walking buddy on his leash, and get moving again! Which, I think, will improve my outlook on life again.
I am now the owner of a minivan. This is still a semi - raw subject in the household. I wanted another SUV, for the safety and performance that I need out of a vehicle, but, Bearded Man kept pushing for a minivan. Somehow, I left the house to go grocery shopping one day, with Bearded Man in tow, and ended up buying milk, bread, veggies, fruit, stuff for school and work lunches, and a mini van. It's nice, but, doesn't handle very well in the snow. It has added an entirely new level of excitement to my commute.
I think it is only fair that I get to chose his next vehicle. I have found that the Prius is a very responsible car, fuel efficient, able to hold the same amount of passengers as his current vehicle, and are also available in a variety of pastel colors.
Eventually I will probably bond with the van. It has absolutely no potential to morph into a Transformer though, while my last vehicle looked like it MIGHT be able to, if it had to.
The van was put into service to drive myself and two other moms to Buffalo, to meet up with the Pre School class to see Sesame Street.
George was beyond excited about this trip. It was really talked about at school, with songs, crafts, activities, and a general frenzy of excitement.
Every morning he would wake up and ask how many more days till Sesame Street.
The day of the Big Trip dawned, and he could barely contain himself. He made sure I knew how to get there. He advised me to follow the bus, if I wasn't completely sure how to find my way.
Once in the theater and seated, I was instructed to check the time on my phone approximately every 4 seconds, to see how much longer before it started.
Finally, the show began, and the characters all danced out onto the stage. "WHAT??? THOSE ARE JUST PEOPLE DRESSED UP!!!! I am NOT watching this." he announced. And, he didn't, either. While his friends and class sang and danced, George begged to go home. He begged to just be able to leave. He begged to go someplace "fun" he begged to go stand in the lobby. He hung over my shoulder and tried to get his teacher's attention, to ask what time it ended.
When asked what his favorite part was, he didn't hesitate. "The ENDING. When we could LEAVE."
Exactly one week later, the van took myself and Kaila back up to Buffalo, to the same theater to see The Phantom of the Opera. I am the biggest fan in the entire world, with Kaila a close second. This was her first time seeing the show, and she was not disappointed. We had the best day, playing hooky from school and work, to catch the afternoon show and go out to dinner together. (Where, incidentally, we ran into one of my brothers completely unexpectedly.)
Mostly though, the van drives me from one job to another. Pretty much all I do at home anymore is sleep. The energy I am putting into this Blog today should honestly be spent apologizing to Lexi's swim team. Last night was the swim banquet. Not only was I supposed to help plan/execute it, per the beginning of the year committee decree, but, we were also supposed to contribute a dish to pass. None of which happened. Nor was I able to make it to the banquet.
Working both jobs, some things are just not possible. Such as housework. I really need to beg people to please not visit my house anytime soon. I have this weekend off, due to a scheduling error. There is a possibility that I will be able to clean this weekend. Or not. But either way, my house is nowhere near up to my standards for company. I am sure I own a dining room table and counter tops. I am not sure, however, where they are or what they look like.
I can also write the grocery list in the dust on assorted surfaces, create new medicines with the penicillin in the refrigerator, construct 4 new dogs and a puppy from the dog hair around the house, star in a "Febreeze" and/or "Swiffer" commercial, and make Martha Stewart cry. My poor house.
I cleaned it a few weeks ago, on a Saturday before I went to work. When I was home again Sunday night after work, it was actually WORSE than before I had cleaned it. The time is honestly much better spent sleeping.
Over lunch the other day, I announced to the entire family that they need to step up the "helping out around the house" game. If I were to announce to my entire family that I had announced that, not one of them would remember. I am just not home enough to enforce it.
The reason we were at lunch the other day, was a stop after an impromptu trip to the craft store, to find knitting needles for Lexi.
Lexi is my kid that is all about her artistic self. She has always been able to create amazing things out of anything. She is happiest when surrounded by anything she can create with. Pens, paper, crayons, paint, fabric, thread, yarn; anything.
Recently, she decided to learn how to knit. Using BBQ skewers, her school iPad, an app, and You Tube, she learned!
If a kid is THAT dedicated and determined, the least I can do is get her some proper knitting needles.
Which turned into a whole family outing. Which turned into six of us staring confusedly at the knitting needle display, while annoyed women who know what they are doing tried to get around us to pluck exactly what they needed off the racks.
I turned to my trusty Facebook friends, who had lots of tips and suggestions, and a private message from a friend who offered some of her unused knitting needles. Lexi was thrilled. "YAY!!! No more splinters!!!!" She announced in front of at least a dozen startled women. She has already knitted me a bookmark and a coaster.
Pretty much, that's life in a nutshell. I wish I had more to write, but, honestly, my days consist of working one or both jobs, and trying to cram as much as possible into the time I do have off. My ray of light right now, is a planned vacation in August. We have rented a cottage on Black Lake near the Adirondacks, by recommendation of a coworker.
Also planned this summer, are 3 5k fun races, and a possibly climbing 2 Adirondack mountains. Which means I need to start getting up early again, now that the weather seems to think it may improve soon, put my trusty walking buddy on his leash, and get moving again! Which, I think, will improve my outlook on life again.
Friday, February 6, 2015
Why I am Going to Hell This Week
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 04, 2015:
I am devastated to announce that, once again, I'm pretty sure the kitchen reno will need to be put off.
It is time to replace the temperamental beast that I drive.
And I pretty much hate everything. Because I truly love my vehicle. It handles like a champ in the snow - even IF the 4X4 doesn't work. And it's big and feels safe and I feel like even if there was ever an accident, we will probably be okay. It's taken me to Nursing school, work, brought a newborn George home from the hospital, assorted kids back and forth to the ER, picked kids from school in terrible weather, driven us to Florida and carted countless loads of groceries.
In looking at all the new models out there, there is nothing I have really liked.
In speaking to a dealer, I watched his eyes glaze over when he asked what I was looking for.
"Well, I SHOULD buy a minivan. I mean, it has lots of space, it's what Bearded Man wants me to get - "
"WHO?"
"My HUSBAND! Anyhow, I really think a minivan is the responsible way to go."
"Yes. Very good choice. We have this one. Back up camera -"
"Very responsible. Never know who is behind you. I feel like a grownup."
"Heated leather seats, lots of cargo space, stow and go seating, DVD player, remote start, remote lift gate. PERFECT family vehicle! Low mileage on this one, too!" Schpeals the salesman. Who then promptly got it stuck in a snow bank backing it out, and knocked the front bumper several times. And who proceeded to regale me with his diabetic issues causing foot problems the moment he discovered I was a nurse.
I drove it. It was nice. It was exactly what I need. I just couldn't like it.
The dealership drew up the loan papers. I looked at the monthly payment, and just couldn't make myself sign for a vehicle I didn't like. I told them I would think about it.
The follow up phone call went as such:
"I really cannot bring myself to give up my big heavy SUV for a minivan. I mean, realistically, I need a vehicle that is good in the snow. Honestly, I am probably a terrible mom for saying this, but, I am in my car by myself probably ninety percent of the time. I drive horrible roads to work, in all sorts of weather. I think I really need an SUV. Something that will handle the weather, and still fit all my kids, their gear, and my groceries on the off chance that they are with me when I go grocery shopping. Which I try to avoid as often as possible, but sometimes things happen, you know?"
Silence.
"Ha ha! I am so sorry, but, I am willing to increase my down payment, AND the amount of money I am willing to spend. I really think an SUV with lots of cargo space is the way to go. My kids are getting bigger and somehow they are all legs, so, they need room to be comfortable, on the off chance we all decide to travel any sort of distance. But, not a minivan. I am so sorry. I feel like I am being quite the princess here. But, there is no point in working all these jobs for a 5 or 6 year car payment on something I hate. I just cannot do it. If I am going to spend that much money, I really think I should LIKE it, don't you think?"
Silence. Then, a stifled sigh. "Can you come in to the dealership and look around?"
"Ummm. I am REALLY REALLY sorry. I work every single day. I honestly can't drive all the way to Buffalo, to look around. That's why I've been doing all this research online. Maybe a Buick Enclave? It seems to fit most of the requirements....If you HAVE something that I could look at, maybe I could come up with a time, but...."
More silence. Then: "I will email you pictures and descriptions of cars that I think might work for you."
Not sure who this has been more traumatic for. Myself or the car dealers I have been working with. Part of me kinda just wants to fix the vehicle that I already have and keep driving it indefinitely. But, I think we're almost past even that. Last week, I had to drive it from job A to job B with a flat tire, no power steering, the brakes announced they needed replaced, the Garmin won't stay stuck to the window in the cold, so I have no idea how fast I am going, and, there are now fumes. In addition, I cannot open one of the doors, and the back hatch works SOMETIMES now. The transmission is iffy, and it's always leaking something. It's time to replace the Beast. Not sure what is making me sadder. Replacing my beloved vehicle, no matter how temperamental it has been over the years, or, NOT replacing my kitchen. Again.
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 06, 2015
Another choppy Blog. This is probably so rude. Ah well.
The vehicle saga continues with a lengthy voicemail left on my phone while I was working.
I listened dumbfounded while the guy who has all the diabetic foot problems admonished me while barely restraining from outright screaming at my poor voicemail, for emailing another salesperson my requirements for a new vehicle.
Evidently car buying etiquette demands that you ONLY speak to ONE person per dealership. Period. I had clearly violated this unspoken rule, and the sales person who had repeatedly rammed the last vehicle I test drove into an ice covered snowbank while backing it out, is my assigned person.
(I feel sort of like James Stewart did in "It's a Wonderful Life", when he finds out he has a third class guardian angel.")
I am actually almost afraid to call them back. Like, should I bring him a plant or something, to make peace and get a good deal? Obviously my normal go - to of chocolate would not be appropriate here.
I went from job "A" to job "B" last night. And discovered that one of my new bosses at job "B" was a car salesman at one point in his life. (Job "B" totally has the Federal Government beat on boss to employee ratio, by the way.)
Anyway, we chatted about my car buying issues, and I was given lots of tips. That included making the salesman cry, Making the salesman angry, pitting the salesmen against each other, thus creating a feud over who gets the car sale commission, thus creating a better deal, and, pitting dealerships against each other.
How exhausting. Until he flashed the keys to a BMW, and told me what his ridiculously low payments are. I suppose I can find the energy someplace to be all aggressive and mean and make grown diabetic men with gimpy feet who cannot back up cars, cry.
Which makes me positive I am going to drive my practically stolen vehicle right to hell. Speaking of that - there has been a new turn of events in Sunday School.
Kaila's teachers quit. It seems they took on teaching "Theology of the Body" to a lot of 13 and 14 year old kids from multiple parishes. While aware that they were expecting a baby in March. It seems they hated the curriculum, and remembered they were having a baby, and decided it just wasn't for them. BYE!!!!
It has been decided that Moriah would be the PERFECT person to teach Catholic Sex Ed to a large group of young teenagers.
It was further decided to approach Bearded Man about this, as, he was so quick to throw me under the bus the last time around. (Thus, I teach Sunday School to two 12 year old girls now.)
The idea now being: My class goes to a retired elderly man, and I take over Kaila's class. Won't that be NICE?? I was told that, being a nurse, I would be PERFECT for teaching all things body to these kids. (WHAT???? *SOB*)
The head of Religious Ed has no idea I am working two jobs. Bearded Man just keeps telling them I am under the weather, when I am unable to make it to church to teach. No pressure. I just feel like I am letting a whole church down, if I say "NO!!!!!" and then, there is the whole going to hell thing. Also, I really have become attached to my current class, and don't particularly WANT to give them up. Further: There is George. Who sits in on my class currently. I don't think he is ready for Theology of the Body yet. I just haven't had the time or heart to call or email the Religious Ed person yet. Honestly, the guilt here is horrible.
In two days, I have found out I have to make car salesmen cry, and let down a whole parish. Honestly, I was so looking forward to the day when I could leave all my kids at Religious Ed, and go out to a nice quiet kid free leisurely breakfast every Sunday morning. I have literally waited FOURTEEN YEARS for this.
"Lord, I am sorry I let the church down, so I could have breakfast and total peace for a whole hour and a half once a week. Show me the slide, and I will head to hell now." Ugh.
I feel like there will probably be more to the car buying saga/Religious Ed dilemma. I also feel like I will probably be guilted right into giving up my class and teaching this seriously uncomfortable program to kids who don't want to hear it any more than I want to teach it.
Till next time!
Tuesday, January 20, 2015
Cancelled Birthday Plans
Yesterday was George's Birthday. In his eyes, it was a good day. In my eyes, it made me question my parenting abilities.
For his Birthday, George received 6 Matchbox Monster Trucks, bringing his current collection to 26. He also received a fish aquarium, glow in the dark rocks, a glow in the dark cave for the fish, and glow in the dark fake fauna. The aquarium was also supposed to make certain kinds of fish look like they are glowing, too. There was a specially ordered blue velvet Monster Truck cake, because there is just no time for me to throw one together at this point, and we had promised to take him to the movies and to pick out fish for the aquarium.
He did NOT receive: The Max Tow Truck, the dog, the four wheeler, or the piece of property to ride it on, as requested.
When the attempt to put the aquarium together was unsuccessful, and we discovered that the lid will not, under any circumstances stay on, and that the entire tank was extremely flimsy. We decided either the cat would have her own sushi bar, or, we would have to exchange the tank.
George proceeded to be the worst behaved I have seen him ever. Maybe it was the Birthday Cake for Breakfast tradition. Maybe it was the over excited lack of sleep. Maybe it was my fault for even ALLOWING birthday cake for breakfast. I don't know. I DO know, that George was crazy.
He opened the front door and hollered out to a man walking by "YOU ARE A STUPID MAN!!!" and slammed the door as hard as he could.
He tormented his brother.
He ripped down and destroyed all the Batman decorations we had put up.
He called 911. I had to do some fast talking when the (extremely unimpressed) Sheriff's Department called me back, inquiring if there was an actual emergency.
I cancelled everything. The movie. The aquarium exchange, the fish. It was all gone. We would do the fish and the new aquarium another time. (Due to my work schedule and lack of any days off in the foreseeable future, I do not know when this will happen.)
In essence, George got some Monster Trucks for his birthday.
I felt like the worst mother EVER. Not only am I never home, but, I had given my kid a defective present, and cancelled all birthday plans.
George, however, turned his behavior around, and proceeded to be a sweetheart the rest of the day, and had a very GOOD day, contentedly playing with his Monster Trucks and just being all around the good kid he normally is.
And, since it was a rare day off, I cleaned the house. And, super mom right here was MAD. I was tired and feeling like a terrible person already, and just overwhelmed with EVERYTHING. I watched Bearded Man snuggle in my chair and take a nap with George, while I caught up weeks of housework, and I resented every minute of it, while I thought about my upcoming non-stop work schedule, which may or may not include a day off in the foreseeable future. It was the most mean spirited small minded I have felt in a long time. I didn't WANT to go grocery shopping. I didn't WANT to clean or catch up on things that I needed to get done. I WANTED to take a nap, read a book, or just sit down guilt free for once. I felt like I had just destroyed my kids' birthday, even if he DID need discipline. Why does parenting have to be so darn hard??
I just grabbed a few things at local stores and called it good, for groceries. I just was not up to a half an hour drive to anywhere. And while out and about, received a reminder text that Joe had a Scout meeting at 6:00pm. I almost had a meltdown on the spot. In the checkout at the store. "ON A HOLIDAY???!!!! FOR THE LOVE OF GOD!!!! Why can't we just have a stupid BREAK?????" I mumbled near tears. I just wanted to go home and stay there. (Side note. When I reminded Joe about Scouts, he took a long look at me, and said "Mom. It's a holiday. It's George's birthday. It was to work on knots and compasses. I can do all that. I will stay home tonight. You can read your book.")
So, this morning, still feeling like a lousy mother, and tired just thinking about the double job schedules of the next two days, and no days off on the horizon, I came to work resigned.
A psych doctor I work with inquired how George's birthday was. And I told her. I told her I felt just terrible about having to come down on him so hard on his 5th birthday.
She proceeded to stare at me haughtily, and inform me I AM a terrible mother. That ALL of this was my fault. My fault for working two jobs. Obviously my kids need me, and I am not meeting their needs. Obviously he is acting out because his mother is not there for him enough. Obviously this was all caused by the lack of maternal presence in the home. It was my fault he was acting out, and thus, my fault his birthday plans were cancelled.
I told her that this was all nice in theory, but, the kids need to eat....
It didn't matter. My priorities were not where they should be, and my kids clearly need their mother. I am exposing them to bad influences by not being there, and I am creating monsters.
I stiffly told her I would bring her next patient in, and left the room. I fought tears for the next hour and a half. And I felt like she was right. What kind of mother CANCELS her kid's BIRTHDAY PLANS????? And she was right. I see my kids three evenings a week, currently.
Then, I got a message from a neighbor. She was asking if Kaila could babysit for her one day this week, and I said that was fine. Then I emailed Kaila and let her know that I had accepted on her behalf, as I knew she would want to.
The message I got back was "You are a saint!!!! Thank you thank you thank you!!!!!!!!!! You are the best mom EVER!!!!!!!!!!!!"
Well. At the end of the day, those are the opinions that count, right? George didn't know he had a terrible birthday. He was DELIGHTED with his monster trucks. He played with them all day. He watched a movie, and had his requested Mac N Cheese for dinner, and was completely content.
Still. I need the second job. It doesn't make it any easier though. I would love to be the stay at home mom. I would love for my house to be clean all the time, and the laundry done and put away faithfully. I would love to be there after school, for those bad days, when the kids need a hug and a shoulder. I miss the nightly dinners. I miss the swim practices, I miss those little moments. Today's lecture from the psych doc really hit a raw spot.
I had HOPED that maybe, instead of my kids feeling deprived, I might be teaching them work ethic. I had hoped that maybe they would look back and appreciate that I was willing to work when I had to. To be grateful for jobs, and food on the table, and heat in the home, and a roof over the head.
That, when times are tough, family bands together and you do what you have to do. It's not permanent. It's just for now. Now, I don't know. I suppose we just do the best we can, and hope for the best in our kids. Overall, I think I have good kids. No one wants PERFECT kids, because, seriously, no one likes perfect people. I love all their quirks, and personalities. Hopefully they grow up to know how much I love them.
I don't know. How many other Not so Perfect Mama's out there can identify?
For his Birthday, George received 6 Matchbox Monster Trucks, bringing his current collection to 26. He also received a fish aquarium, glow in the dark rocks, a glow in the dark cave for the fish, and glow in the dark fake fauna. The aquarium was also supposed to make certain kinds of fish look like they are glowing, too. There was a specially ordered blue velvet Monster Truck cake, because there is just no time for me to throw one together at this point, and we had promised to take him to the movies and to pick out fish for the aquarium.
He did NOT receive: The Max Tow Truck, the dog, the four wheeler, or the piece of property to ride it on, as requested.
When the attempt to put the aquarium together was unsuccessful, and we discovered that the lid will not, under any circumstances stay on, and that the entire tank was extremely flimsy. We decided either the cat would have her own sushi bar, or, we would have to exchange the tank.
George proceeded to be the worst behaved I have seen him ever. Maybe it was the Birthday Cake for Breakfast tradition. Maybe it was the over excited lack of sleep. Maybe it was my fault for even ALLOWING birthday cake for breakfast. I don't know. I DO know, that George was crazy.
He opened the front door and hollered out to a man walking by "YOU ARE A STUPID MAN!!!" and slammed the door as hard as he could.
He tormented his brother.
He ripped down and destroyed all the Batman decorations we had put up.
He called 911. I had to do some fast talking when the (extremely unimpressed) Sheriff's Department called me back, inquiring if there was an actual emergency.
I cancelled everything. The movie. The aquarium exchange, the fish. It was all gone. We would do the fish and the new aquarium another time. (Due to my work schedule and lack of any days off in the foreseeable future, I do not know when this will happen.)
In essence, George got some Monster Trucks for his birthday.
I felt like the worst mother EVER. Not only am I never home, but, I had given my kid a defective present, and cancelled all birthday plans.
George, however, turned his behavior around, and proceeded to be a sweetheart the rest of the day, and had a very GOOD day, contentedly playing with his Monster Trucks and just being all around the good kid he normally is.
And, since it was a rare day off, I cleaned the house. And, super mom right here was MAD. I was tired and feeling like a terrible person already, and just overwhelmed with EVERYTHING. I watched Bearded Man snuggle in my chair and take a nap with George, while I caught up weeks of housework, and I resented every minute of it, while I thought about my upcoming non-stop work schedule, which may or may not include a day off in the foreseeable future. It was the most mean spirited small minded I have felt in a long time. I didn't WANT to go grocery shopping. I didn't WANT to clean or catch up on things that I needed to get done. I WANTED to take a nap, read a book, or just sit down guilt free for once. I felt like I had just destroyed my kids' birthday, even if he DID need discipline. Why does parenting have to be so darn hard??
I just grabbed a few things at local stores and called it good, for groceries. I just was not up to a half an hour drive to anywhere. And while out and about, received a reminder text that Joe had a Scout meeting at 6:00pm. I almost had a meltdown on the spot. In the checkout at the store. "ON A HOLIDAY???!!!! FOR THE LOVE OF GOD!!!! Why can't we just have a stupid BREAK?????" I mumbled near tears. I just wanted to go home and stay there. (Side note. When I reminded Joe about Scouts, he took a long look at me, and said "Mom. It's a holiday. It's George's birthday. It was to work on knots and compasses. I can do all that. I will stay home tonight. You can read your book.")
So, this morning, still feeling like a lousy mother, and tired just thinking about the double job schedules of the next two days, and no days off on the horizon, I came to work resigned.
A psych doctor I work with inquired how George's birthday was. And I told her. I told her I felt just terrible about having to come down on him so hard on his 5th birthday.
She proceeded to stare at me haughtily, and inform me I AM a terrible mother. That ALL of this was my fault. My fault for working two jobs. Obviously my kids need me, and I am not meeting their needs. Obviously he is acting out because his mother is not there for him enough. Obviously this was all caused by the lack of maternal presence in the home. It was my fault he was acting out, and thus, my fault his birthday plans were cancelled.
I told her that this was all nice in theory, but, the kids need to eat....
It didn't matter. My priorities were not where they should be, and my kids clearly need their mother. I am exposing them to bad influences by not being there, and I am creating monsters.
I stiffly told her I would bring her next patient in, and left the room. I fought tears for the next hour and a half. And I felt like she was right. What kind of mother CANCELS her kid's BIRTHDAY PLANS????? And she was right. I see my kids three evenings a week, currently.
Then, I got a message from a neighbor. She was asking if Kaila could babysit for her one day this week, and I said that was fine. Then I emailed Kaila and let her know that I had accepted on her behalf, as I knew she would want to.
The message I got back was "You are a saint!!!! Thank you thank you thank you!!!!!!!!!! You are the best mom EVER!!!!!!!!!!!!"
Well. At the end of the day, those are the opinions that count, right? George didn't know he had a terrible birthday. He was DELIGHTED with his monster trucks. He played with them all day. He watched a movie, and had his requested Mac N Cheese for dinner, and was completely content.
Still. I need the second job. It doesn't make it any easier though. I would love to be the stay at home mom. I would love for my house to be clean all the time, and the laundry done and put away faithfully. I would love to be there after school, for those bad days, when the kids need a hug and a shoulder. I miss the nightly dinners. I miss the swim practices, I miss those little moments. Today's lecture from the psych doc really hit a raw spot.
I had HOPED that maybe, instead of my kids feeling deprived, I might be teaching them work ethic. I had hoped that maybe they would look back and appreciate that I was willing to work when I had to. To be grateful for jobs, and food on the table, and heat in the home, and a roof over the head.
That, when times are tough, family bands together and you do what you have to do. It's not permanent. It's just for now. Now, I don't know. I suppose we just do the best we can, and hope for the best in our kids. Overall, I think I have good kids. No one wants PERFECT kids, because, seriously, no one likes perfect people. I love all their quirks, and personalities. Hopefully they grow up to know how much I love them.
I don't know. How many other Not so Perfect Mama's out there can identify?
Thursday, January 15, 2015
How Many Me's Are There?
A certain young man in our household will be turning FIVE on Monday.
All he wants is a Max Tow Truck. The truck that will pull up to 200lbs and do everything but clean your room.
I became vaguely aware of this truck shortly before Christmas, when the kids were talking about seeing it on a television commercial. Since my children are every advertising exec's dream, who tend towant need every single thing they see on TV commercials, I tend to ignore them.
The truck would not go away, however, and by the time I realized that this was the only thing in the whole wide world that my son wanted for Christmas, it was too late. Evidently every kid in America ALSO wanted the Max Tow truck, because they were all sold out everywhere. I totally threw Santa under the bus, and said that Mom would come through for him, and he would get the truck for his birthday.
The truck continues to be sold out. They ARE available on Amazon and EBay for ridiculously inflated prices from unsavory dealers. Advertising the truck with no pictures of it.
His friend down the road has one.
His friend at school has one.
He thinks he does not have one, because maybe he was bad, so Santa did not bring him one.
At this point, I am the worst mother EVER. So, this morning, we snuggled in my chair for 15 minutes before we got ready for work and school, and I tried to explain that the truck is still sold out.
"Is there ANYTHING else you would like for your birthday?"
"Yes. Mama. I need my own pet. I would like a dog, please."
"George. We already have two dogs! That's enough for our house and our small back yard."
"You could get me my own dog, and a book called "How to train your dog". I will train it to behave. I really need a pet. PLEASE, Mama?"
"Honey. You can't read yet."
"Get one with pictures!"
He is actually getting an aquarium, and then he can go pick out fish. It isn't a dog, but, I am hoping it will do. Also, if I bring one more dog into the house, the cat will probably kill me in my sleep.
In other news, I honestly can't tell you what my house looks like at this point. I am seldom in it and awake. My requirements at this time are that it stay standing and that I have clean laundry and a clear path from the front door to the shower to my bed. That's really about it.
Bearded Man has been busy drawing up plans for a new kitchen. This year, I am determined to finally replace the miserable kitchen. I am even willing to drive the temperamental beast that I own for another year, if I can have a new kitchen. The plans include: All new cupboards, counters, floor, another heat source, a window on the back wall, moving the stove, and turning the back store room into a deck. I am hoping for a brighter, warmer, more welcoming space than the current cold dark kitchen full of cold dark aggravation.
And windows. We really need to replace the windows. I may need to step up the waitressing game.
Waitressing continues to go well. I have lost 9 pounds in the two weeks that I have been doing it already, so, is essence, I am getting paid to lose weight. And eventually buy a kitchen that I have no time to cook in.
As far as I know, I think the kids are all doing okay. When I was leaving for work this morning, I saw that Lexi had donned: A neon pink tutu with silver rhinestones, knee high neon pink socks with hearts on them, black leggings, bright pink sweatshirt, and florescent orange sneakers. She pulls it off well.
I haven't seen much of Joe lately. He wakes up extra early and eats a calm, quiet breakfast while watching Pokemon on TV, and wakes the girls up for me while I shower every morning. Our communication consists of peeking into the family room and saying good morning, and then hollering into the family room 'Good Bye and Good night!!!! Love you!!!!" As I run out the door in the morning.
Kaila keeps in touch all day through emails and texts, so I think I'm pretty up to date on her world.
George sent his stuffed chameleon to work with me the other day, and solemnly requested that I feed it pretend grapes, play hide n seek with it, give it a checkup and roll it's ball gently to it occasionally. I took pictures of all the activities requested, and even found myself feeding it fake grapes throughout the day. Because, I am probably this side of crazy.
I found out via an ink blot test online today, that I have multiple personalities. The results urged that me and all my other Me's all seek immediate help. We truly don't have the time currently, so, my immediate world is sort of stuck with all of us as is for now. So sorry for any confusion we may have caused to date. I could use this to my advantage, and blame all poor parenting on one of the other Me's. Could work!
That's pretty much it for excitement at this time. For those of you that happen to live in the WNY area - stay warm!
All he wants is a Max Tow Truck. The truck that will pull up to 200lbs and do everything but clean your room.
I became vaguely aware of this truck shortly before Christmas, when the kids were talking about seeing it on a television commercial. Since my children are every advertising exec's dream, who tend to
The truck would not go away, however, and by the time I realized that this was the only thing in the whole wide world that my son wanted for Christmas, it was too late. Evidently every kid in America ALSO wanted the Max Tow truck, because they were all sold out everywhere. I totally threw Santa under the bus, and said that Mom would come through for him, and he would get the truck for his birthday.
The truck continues to be sold out. They ARE available on Amazon and EBay for ridiculously inflated prices from unsavory dealers. Advertising the truck with no pictures of it.
His friend down the road has one.
His friend at school has one.
He thinks he does not have one, because maybe he was bad, so Santa did not bring him one.
At this point, I am the worst mother EVER. So, this morning, we snuggled in my chair for 15 minutes before we got ready for work and school, and I tried to explain that the truck is still sold out.
"Is there ANYTHING else you would like for your birthday?"
"Yes. Mama. I need my own pet. I would like a dog, please."
"George. We already have two dogs! That's enough for our house and our small back yard."
"You could get me my own dog, and a book called "How to train your dog". I will train it to behave. I really need a pet. PLEASE, Mama?"
"Honey. You can't read yet."
"Get one with pictures!"
He is actually getting an aquarium, and then he can go pick out fish. It isn't a dog, but, I am hoping it will do. Also, if I bring one more dog into the house, the cat will probably kill me in my sleep.
In other news, I honestly can't tell you what my house looks like at this point. I am seldom in it and awake. My requirements at this time are that it stay standing and that I have clean laundry and a clear path from the front door to the shower to my bed. That's really about it.
Bearded Man has been busy drawing up plans for a new kitchen. This year, I am determined to finally replace the miserable kitchen. I am even willing to drive the temperamental beast that I own for another year, if I can have a new kitchen. The plans include: All new cupboards, counters, floor, another heat source, a window on the back wall, moving the stove, and turning the back store room into a deck. I am hoping for a brighter, warmer, more welcoming space than the current cold dark kitchen full of cold dark aggravation.
And windows. We really need to replace the windows. I may need to step up the waitressing game.
Waitressing continues to go well. I have lost 9 pounds in the two weeks that I have been doing it already, so, is essence, I am getting paid to lose weight. And eventually buy a kitchen that I have no time to cook in.
As far as I know, I think the kids are all doing okay. When I was leaving for work this morning, I saw that Lexi had donned: A neon pink tutu with silver rhinestones, knee high neon pink socks with hearts on them, black leggings, bright pink sweatshirt, and florescent orange sneakers. She pulls it off well.
I haven't seen much of Joe lately. He wakes up extra early and eats a calm, quiet breakfast while watching Pokemon on TV, and wakes the girls up for me while I shower every morning. Our communication consists of peeking into the family room and saying good morning, and then hollering into the family room 'Good Bye and Good night!!!! Love you!!!!" As I run out the door in the morning.
Kaila keeps in touch all day through emails and texts, so I think I'm pretty up to date on her world.
George sent his stuffed chameleon to work with me the other day, and solemnly requested that I feed it pretend grapes, play hide n seek with it, give it a checkup and roll it's ball gently to it occasionally. I took pictures of all the activities requested, and even found myself feeding it fake grapes throughout the day. Because, I am probably this side of crazy.
I found out via an ink blot test online today, that I have multiple personalities. The results urged that me and all my other Me's all seek immediate help. We truly don't have the time currently, so, my immediate world is sort of stuck with all of us as is for now. So sorry for any confusion we may have caused to date. I could use this to my advantage, and blame all poor parenting on one of the other Me's. Could work!
That's pretty much it for excitement at this time. For those of you that happen to live in the WNY area - stay warm!
Thursday, January 8, 2015
Put. The. Phone. Down!!!!!
So far, myself AND my customers have survived my re-entry into waitressing. I was hoping I would be halfway to a bikini body already. I'm not, but It feels like I should be.
In the short week that I have been doing this, I have noticed something that wasn't an issue 5 years ago, when last I was in this business. Between my own observation, and in chatting with other servers.
PHONES!!!!!!!!
It's crazy! I recently had a table of 11 people. They had just finished bowling, and then come into the restaurant portion of things for dinner. They were all just the nicest people, and obviously having a good time. But then, they sat down, so that the men were all on one side of the table, so they could watch the TVs above the bar, and the women on the other side of the table; all of whom promptly whipped out their phones, and stared at them. All of them. The men were quietly watching TV - some while still playing on their phones, and the women were mumbling to each other, while staring at their phones.
Anyone out there on social media can probably agree, that their statuses went as such:
#bowling with the besties #foodfunfriends #lookatmynewbowlingball #lovethisman #lovethesegirls #goodtimes #yumdinnerlooksdelish #nightout #nokids #sofun #selfiewiththegirls!
Along with the requisite "selfie" pics. And the group pics, and the pics with the distracted men, and the pics with the surprised looking men, who had no idea they were getting attacked while they ate their (silent) dinner, and grabbed for a quick selfie shot. And the pics of the food, of course.
I suppose I could go on and on, but, essentially; that is what we see. People on their phones, either talking or scrolling, all through dinner. While telling all of social media what a grand time they are having, and how much they love whomever they are with. It LOOKS good on Facebook. In reality, if it was THAT wonderful, and THAT romantic; you wouldn't be on your phone. Just my own opinion.
Anyhow. There have been some adjustments at home, as well. Last Sunday, I woke up and did not feel well. One does NOT call in with the GI bug on day two of a new job. One takes lots of medication in the desperate hope something works, and deals with it.
I could not, however, deal with it, work, church and teaching 45 minutes of Sunday school, before cutting out for work. So.... Bearded Man had to teach Sunday School. I have to confess, when I was handed my hours for the first week, my first comment was that I wouldn't be able to teach Sunday school. The new boss started to apologize, and I laughed "Well. Bearded Man just got hit by the Karma Bus. THIS is what happens, when you volunteer your wife to teach Sunday school. HA! See you Sunday!"
On my way to work, I receive a whispered miserable phone call. The lesson plan for that day was all about chastity and relationships. And it was just Jasin and one 12 year old girl. Not sure who I felt sorrier for, but, he still had 45 minutes to go, and they were both ready to be done. I hung up and laughed.
On the days that I have to work both jobs, the kids know that I won't be home until they are all asleep. So, We do the "good bye" hugs and kisses, and then a round of "Good Night" hugs and kisses. You do what you have to, I suppose.
Thus far, my family has really come through and kept the housework caught up! Bearded Man this week alone, has assigned each child one room in the main portion of the house. They were paid to keep their respective areas clean until Friday. Not sure if they had to pay him back if things weren't up to snuff, but, the system seems to be working.
He has also cleaned out and painted the inside of cupboards the pots and pans are kept in.
And painted the bathroom ceiling. He called me today and informed me he had just exposed himself to seriously strong paint fumes without thinking the ventilation process through very well. He was outside trying to figure out why he was inexplicably happy.
My dog is not currently speaking to me, and refuses to even look at me at this time. When he does, it is reproachfully, and from the depths of my recliner.
Today, I only work one job. I am headed home, to make sure Bearded Man still has some brain cells left, after the paint incident, and figure out what to do with half frozen ground beef, and then, I am going to kick my miserable dog out of my recliner, and enjoy my kids. Or sleep. Or both. I don't know yet.
In the short week that I have been doing this, I have noticed something that wasn't an issue 5 years ago, when last I was in this business. Between my own observation, and in chatting with other servers.
PHONES!!!!!!!!
It's crazy! I recently had a table of 11 people. They had just finished bowling, and then come into the restaurant portion of things for dinner. They were all just the nicest people, and obviously having a good time. But then, they sat down, so that the men were all on one side of the table, so they could watch the TVs above the bar, and the women on the other side of the table; all of whom promptly whipped out their phones, and stared at them. All of them. The men were quietly watching TV - some while still playing on their phones, and the women were mumbling to each other, while staring at their phones.
Anyone out there on social media can probably agree, that their statuses went as such:
#bowling with the besties #foodfunfriends #lookatmynewbowlingball #lovethisman #lovethesegirls #goodtimes #yumdinnerlooksdelish #nightout #nokids #sofun #selfiewiththegirls!
Along with the requisite "selfie" pics. And the group pics, and the pics with the distracted men, and the pics with the surprised looking men, who had no idea they were getting attacked while they ate their (silent) dinner, and grabbed for a quick selfie shot. And the pics of the food, of course.
I suppose I could go on and on, but, essentially; that is what we see. People on their phones, either talking or scrolling, all through dinner. While telling all of social media what a grand time they are having, and how much they love whomever they are with. It LOOKS good on Facebook. In reality, if it was THAT wonderful, and THAT romantic; you wouldn't be on your phone. Just my own opinion.
Anyhow. There have been some adjustments at home, as well. Last Sunday, I woke up and did not feel well. One does NOT call in with the GI bug on day two of a new job. One takes lots of medication in the desperate hope something works, and deals with it.
I could not, however, deal with it, work, church and teaching 45 minutes of Sunday school, before cutting out for work. So.... Bearded Man had to teach Sunday School. I have to confess, when I was handed my hours for the first week, my first comment was that I wouldn't be able to teach Sunday school. The new boss started to apologize, and I laughed "Well. Bearded Man just got hit by the Karma Bus. THIS is what happens, when you volunteer your wife to teach Sunday school. HA! See you Sunday!"
On my way to work, I receive a whispered miserable phone call. The lesson plan for that day was all about chastity and relationships. And it was just Jasin and one 12 year old girl. Not sure who I felt sorrier for, but, he still had 45 minutes to go, and they were both ready to be done. I hung up and laughed.
On the days that I have to work both jobs, the kids know that I won't be home until they are all asleep. So, We do the "good bye" hugs and kisses, and then a round of "Good Night" hugs and kisses. You do what you have to, I suppose.
Thus far, my family has really come through and kept the housework caught up! Bearded Man this week alone, has assigned each child one room in the main portion of the house. They were paid to keep their respective areas clean until Friday. Not sure if they had to pay him back if things weren't up to snuff, but, the system seems to be working.
He has also cleaned out and painted the inside of cupboards the pots and pans are kept in.
And painted the bathroom ceiling. He called me today and informed me he had just exposed himself to seriously strong paint fumes without thinking the ventilation process through very well. He was outside trying to figure out why he was inexplicably happy.
My dog is not currently speaking to me, and refuses to even look at me at this time. When he does, it is reproachfully, and from the depths of my recliner.
Today, I only work one job. I am headed home, to make sure Bearded Man still has some brain cells left, after the paint incident, and figure out what to do with half frozen ground beef, and then, I am going to kick my miserable dog out of my recliner, and enjoy my kids. Or sleep. Or both. I don't know yet.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)