Lots to be thankful for... great family, wonderful friends, warm home, reliable vehicles, the best husband, super daughter, jobs I love, made it (finally!) to Georgia. I am celebrating the holiday with my sister Marcia and her hubby Daniel. We are going to Disney World this evening for a 4 day stay. Aria and I were bumped from our regular scheduled flight on Monday and took a red eye to get to Atlanta 12 hours later than planned, but we're here and that is all that matters. We have been catching up on sleep and just taking it easy... what vacations are all about, right? While we were enduring our 6 hour layover in Salt Lake City, we met a few people who were in our same sort of predicament and they gave us food vouchers (so we ate for free pretty much the whole time there) and just made the time go by much quicker. I started out feeling pretty sorry for myself, but these "angels" really made our evening quite enjoyable! God is always looking out for us, even in airports! Plus, Daniel has the whole time off while we're here, so he was able to pick us up at 6:30 am no problem. Bless his heart cuz he drove approx. 8 hours that day! It is so good to see them... I can't tell you how happy I am today. Should be a great, fun weekend.
I am also thankful that I will be an auntie and that Marcia is in her 2nd trimester!! (and she is showing:D)
Hope you all have much to be thankful for and have a wonderful Thanksgiving!
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Friday, November 13, 2009
Dad, Mom and Paul were just here:)
They arrived Wednesday and left just this morning. Dad, Paul, Tony and I went hunting a couple of times. Paul filled a tag, but that was it. We put the sneak on a few deer, but were spoiled by some cows of all things. It has been a while since Paul has been able to join us, so it was just like old times. We had a blast. Mom hung out with Aria. It is always so good to see family!
The 49ers beat the Bears! I missed the game cuz I just plain forgot about it, visiting with family and all. When Paul told me the score, I just about lost my teeth! After their embarrassing loss to the Titans, I was ready to pull out my paper bag again. I really think they are improving. Not as quickly as I would like, but they were terrible a few years back, and these things take time. Cutler threw 5 INTs! Good job "best arm in the league"! While I am at it, why don't I post my picks for week 10 (already?!)
Bills @ Titans: The Titans seem to have some new life since Vince Young took over as QB. The Bills? Meh. I think the Titans continue their little engine that could momentum and win this by 13.
Bengals @ Steelers: Ooohh! Almost my pick for game of the week. Should be interesting to see the surprising Bengals take on the hot Steelers. The Bengals have already beat the Steelers once this season, but I don't see them going 2-0 against them, esp. cuz the Steelers are at home and dominate in their stompin' grounds. Steelers by 6.
Cowboys @ Packers: So, the media continues it's love/hate relationship with Tony Romo. This week they love him. He's the perfect QB. His Novembers have always been strong... but then the playoffs happen and we have a totally new Romo to discuss. The Packers, well, I like them cuz Brett isn't there and that is about it. This is a bias pick, cuz I don't like the Cowgirls and so, for an upset, I pick the Pack by 4.
Eagles @ Chargers: Hmm. Eagles lost a close one to the Cowboys last week. Poor coaching choices that hopefully they've learned from. The Chargers appear to have the edge and they are at home. I think this game comes down to which QB has a better game. McNabb in inconsistent and Rivers is a hot-head. I look for McNabb to pull himself together a bit and win this by 12.
Patriots @ Colts: My obvious game of the week. These 2 teams have a rivalry that is becoming like the pre-Super Bowl game lately. I am torn to how to pick this cuz while the Colts are 8-0, let's not forget how many of those wins were by thismuch and who those losses almost came to. These 2 teams prepare very well for each other, so it should go to the wire. Manning, while a master QB, needs to continue winning to have a smooth transition into home field advantage for playoffs. I pick the Colts to win by 3.
Ravens @ Browns: When they put this schedule together, the powers that be probably thought this would be a great Monday night match-up. Not unless a miracle occurs for the lowly Browns. Ravens by 21.
Now I enjoy the weekend of cleaning house, and starting to put up Christmas decorations, prepare for our trip to Florida and Football Sunday! Later=)
The 49ers beat the Bears! I missed the game cuz I just plain forgot about it, visiting with family and all. When Paul told me the score, I just about lost my teeth! After their embarrassing loss to the Titans, I was ready to pull out my paper bag again. I really think they are improving. Not as quickly as I would like, but they were terrible a few years back, and these things take time. Cutler threw 5 INTs! Good job "best arm in the league"! While I am at it, why don't I post my picks for week 10 (already?!)
Bills @ Titans: The Titans seem to have some new life since Vince Young took over as QB. The Bills? Meh. I think the Titans continue their little engine that could momentum and win this by 13.
Bengals @ Steelers: Ooohh! Almost my pick for game of the week. Should be interesting to see the surprising Bengals take on the hot Steelers. The Bengals have already beat the Steelers once this season, but I don't see them going 2-0 against them, esp. cuz the Steelers are at home and dominate in their stompin' grounds. Steelers by 6.
Cowboys @ Packers: So, the media continues it's love/hate relationship with Tony Romo. This week they love him. He's the perfect QB. His Novembers have always been strong... but then the playoffs happen and we have a totally new Romo to discuss. The Packers, well, I like them cuz Brett isn't there and that is about it. This is a bias pick, cuz I don't like the Cowgirls and so, for an upset, I pick the Pack by 4.
Eagles @ Chargers: Hmm. Eagles lost a close one to the Cowboys last week. Poor coaching choices that hopefully they've learned from. The Chargers appear to have the edge and they are at home. I think this game comes down to which QB has a better game. McNabb in inconsistent and Rivers is a hot-head. I look for McNabb to pull himself together a bit and win this by 12.
Patriots @ Colts: My obvious game of the week. These 2 teams have a rivalry that is becoming like the pre-Super Bowl game lately. I am torn to how to pick this cuz while the Colts are 8-0, let's not forget how many of those wins were by thismuch and who those losses almost came to. These 2 teams prepare very well for each other, so it should go to the wire. Manning, while a master QB, needs to continue winning to have a smooth transition into home field advantage for playoffs. I pick the Colts to win by 3.
Ravens @ Browns: When they put this schedule together, the powers that be probably thought this would be a great Monday night match-up. Not unless a miracle occurs for the lowly Browns. Ravens by 21.
Now I enjoy the weekend of cleaning house, and starting to put up Christmas decorations, prepare for our trip to Florida and Football Sunday! Later=)
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Happy Veterans Day
Daniel, when he was in Afghanistan
Paul, when he was in Iraq
To say that I am proud of these 2 is an understatement. They are both currently in their respective homes at the time. Daniel will be going to Korea for a year in January. They and thousands of other military personnel (and their families) deserve our respect and support. It is said over and over almost to the point of losing meaning, but they really do protect us, our country. What happened last weekend at Fort Hood is a reminder of how much these men and women put on the line for us, even at home! So, as I put my flag out tomorrow in honor of those who have served, are currently serving or just signed up to serve: THANK YOU! It is an honor to recognize your sacrifices.
Paul, when he was in Iraq
To say that I am proud of these 2 is an understatement. They are both currently in their respective homes at the time. Daniel will be going to Korea for a year in January. They and thousands of other military personnel (and their families) deserve our respect and support. It is said over and over almost to the point of losing meaning, but they really do protect us, our country. What happened last weekend at Fort Hood is a reminder of how much these men and women put on the line for us, even at home! So, as I put my flag out tomorrow in honor of those who have served, are currently serving or just signed up to serve: THANK YOU! It is an honor to recognize your sacrifices.
Sunday, November 8, 2009
The faces of ignorance
What happened yesterday is a sad moment in history. "A triumphant Speaker Nancy Pelosi compared the legislation to the passage of Social Security in 1935 and Medicare 30 years later." Yeah, look how well those are doing today.
"Pelosi added that the bill would also reduce drug costs for seniors, prevent insurance companies from charging women more than men for the same coverage, and would allow young adults to stay on their parents' insurance until their 27th birthdays. She also promised that the bill would add 'not one dime to the deficit.'" If it's too good to be true, it probably is. As a health care professional, this makes me sick. One of the biggest issues, aside from soaring taxes and massive waiting lists is this: what was one of the biggest complaints about health care in the recent past? Answer: HEALTH CARE WORKER SHORTAGES!!!! Do they think insuring everyone will resolve this issue as well. Hell no! It will compound an already horrible situation. Wake up, people! If you already have to wait 2 hours to see a doctor because of short staffing in clinics, think how much worse it will be if you can see a doc cuz your nose is runny (I may be exaggerating a bit, but not by much. Don't believe me, go to an ER on a weekend or holiday when Indian Health Service is closed.) Government can't run health care. Medicaid, Medicare, IHS... should be proof enough of that. Plus, health care does not need to be reformed. Who among us has had poor health care? It happens, but so does getting the wrong order at a restaurant, or buying a article of clothing that falls apart the first time you wear it. I would be willing to bet that if you go to the hospital sick, you go home well or at least on the way to recovery. It helps to be pro-active in your care, but if you go to your follow up appointments, let your doc know of any changes, I'm pretty sure your healthcare is fine. Now, insurance pricing needs some work, pre-existing conditions need to go... there are things that need to change. But we here in America have great healthcare! The only thing that needs to change are the people running our government!!!
Saturday, November 7, 2009
Week 9 Picks
Here we go again!!
Cardinals @ Bears: Last year, this would've been easy. But this year, not so much. I think both teams are struggling. They're just about dead even in all stats categories and they are both 4-3. I will give it to the Bears, since they are at home with the edge by 4.
Ravens @ Bengals: Another game that could go either way. The Bengals already won the first match between these two and is coming off a bye week. The Ravens started hot, but have kinda fizzled out. I am again picking the home team, Bengals, by 6.
Texans @ Colts: I know a lot of sports writers, bloggers and such are expecting the Colts to receive their first loss in this game. But again they are at home and have way more weapons and experience than the Texans. Colts by 10.
Chargers @ Giants: Okay. The Giants are a mess right now. I don't know what happened but they really need to win this to get some wind in their sails again. I believe they have a more talented roster than the Chargers and I think that Manning is much cooler under pressure than Rivers. Giants by 6.
Cowboys @ Eagles: My Week 9 Game of the Week. I expect the Eagles to win, mostly cuz I loath the Cowgirls, but I think the Eagles have more depth. They are also at home... anyone else noting a pattern here? Eagles by 12.
Steelers @ Denver: The Steelers, after starting pretty slowly, have won their last 5straight. The Broncos are coming off their first loss of the season last week. I am gonna stick with my theory this week that home teams have the advantage and predict the Broncos to beat the Steelers in overtime by a field goal.
Some good match ups. My '9ers are playing the Titans... so guess who'll win that one?! Hehe. Have fun watching week 9 everyone!
Cardinals @ Bears: Last year, this would've been easy. But this year, not so much. I think both teams are struggling. They're just about dead even in all stats categories and they are both 4-3. I will give it to the Bears, since they are at home with the edge by 4.
Ravens @ Bengals: Another game that could go either way. The Bengals already won the first match between these two and is coming off a bye week. The Ravens started hot, but have kinda fizzled out. I am again picking the home team, Bengals, by 6.
Texans @ Colts: I know a lot of sports writers, bloggers and such are expecting the Colts to receive their first loss in this game. But again they are at home and have way more weapons and experience than the Texans. Colts by 10.
Chargers @ Giants: Okay. The Giants are a mess right now. I don't know what happened but they really need to win this to get some wind in their sails again. I believe they have a more talented roster than the Chargers and I think that Manning is much cooler under pressure than Rivers. Giants by 6.
Cowboys @ Eagles: My Week 9 Game of the Week. I expect the Eagles to win, mostly cuz I loath the Cowgirls, but I think the Eagles have more depth. They are also at home... anyone else noting a pattern here? Eagles by 12.
Steelers @ Denver: The Steelers, after starting pretty slowly, have won their last 5straight. The Broncos are coming off their first loss of the season last week. I am gonna stick with my theory this week that home teams have the advantage and predict the Broncos to beat the Steelers in overtime by a field goal.
Some good match ups. My '9ers are playing the Titans... so guess who'll win that one?! Hehe. Have fun watching week 9 everyone!
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Some random things in no particular order
It's supposed to be in the 60's today. The urge to decorate for Christmas is very tempting. I am trying to decide if I should start now or wait till I get back from Georgia. I like to have everything done around Thanksgiving. I will be gone however, so I usually would do it before I left. Well, I work every day of the week before we leave, so that puts me decorating between now and next week if I want to come home to a Christmasy house December 2. Plus, we decorated at the Art Center for Christmas yesterday to coincide with the show we are doing this month... I am in the Christmas spirit for sure! All the decorations are up in Great Falls already too.
Heidi and I went to Great Falls together this past Tuesday for a girls day out. The real reason to go was to see Michael Jackson's This Is It movie. But also to get out of town for a day. The movie was not at all what I expected, but it was still interesting. I kinda expected it to be like a dress rehearsal, but it took some of the producers highlights and interviews with the various dancers and musicians and mixed that with some rehearsal footage. The sets were amazing, the band sounded incredible, the dancers were unbelievable, but Michael... hard to say. He could still move a little, but it wasn't anything close to 20 years ago. Was he saving himself for the actual performances or was what we were seeing it? He did a duet with one of his background vocalist and she was spot-on. He was, well, pitchy. He would move around his dancers: was it cuz he was checking their accuracy or because he couldn't do what they were doing? I guess I still had a bunch of unanswered questions as to his ability to perform 50 concerts. I don't think 50 is old, but I think 50 is different than 25 or even 30. Not only that, but he has not preformed in nearly a decade. I was stunned at his appearance: gaunt, frail, and his eyes seriously had a lifelessness about them. Perhaps he realized how great a feat he was about to take on, and maybe was getting overwhelmed by it. I think he was constantly chasing the Thriller days, when he should've been grateful for that moment in history maybe no one else will get to experience. I did have a major eye rolling moment at the movie when it threw some environmental propaganda at us. Obviously, Michael was an environmentalist, and he was gonna include some of it in his show, but for the movie to dedicate as much time as it did to "the earth has a fever" and "we have only 4 more years before the damage is irreversible" was maddening. Drop that crap and show some more songs!! I really liked the Thriller and Smooth Criminal sets. I have had an increased interest in Michael Jackson since his death, as a medical person and as a music enthusiast. The movie did not delve into anything post June 25, so some questions were left unanswered, perhaps on purpose? BTW~ this was the first movie theater I have been to since I was 7 months preggers with Aria. To which Heidi quipped, "Wow. I don't know to be proud of you or feel really sorry for you!" Funny girl, that one. Anyway, we did have a great time. We had been planning this day for a long time, so it came slowly and went too quickly, not surprisingly. We'll have to go again, SOON!
I was almost prepared to post my predictions for week 9 today, cuz the NFL network advertising made it sound like Thursday games started today. But it actually starts next week (way to get my hopes up, tho... good job, boys!), so due to today's longer post, I will save that for another post. Now... should I start pulling out the Christmas stuff... decisions, decisions!
Heidi and I went to Great Falls together this past Tuesday for a girls day out. The real reason to go was to see Michael Jackson's This Is It movie. But also to get out of town for a day. The movie was not at all what I expected, but it was still interesting. I kinda expected it to be like a dress rehearsal, but it took some of the producers highlights and interviews with the various dancers and musicians and mixed that with some rehearsal footage. The sets were amazing, the band sounded incredible, the dancers were unbelievable, but Michael... hard to say. He could still move a little, but it wasn't anything close to 20 years ago. Was he saving himself for the actual performances or was what we were seeing it? He did a duet with one of his background vocalist and she was spot-on. He was, well, pitchy. He would move around his dancers: was it cuz he was checking their accuracy or because he couldn't do what they were doing? I guess I still had a bunch of unanswered questions as to his ability to perform 50 concerts. I don't think 50 is old, but I think 50 is different than 25 or even 30. Not only that, but he has not preformed in nearly a decade. I was stunned at his appearance: gaunt, frail, and his eyes seriously had a lifelessness about them. Perhaps he realized how great a feat he was about to take on, and maybe was getting overwhelmed by it. I think he was constantly chasing the Thriller days, when he should've been grateful for that moment in history maybe no one else will get to experience. I did have a major eye rolling moment at the movie when it threw some environmental propaganda at us. Obviously, Michael was an environmentalist, and he was gonna include some of it in his show, but for the movie to dedicate as much time as it did to "the earth has a fever" and "we have only 4 more years before the damage is irreversible" was maddening. Drop that crap and show some more songs!! I really liked the Thriller and Smooth Criminal sets. I have had an increased interest in Michael Jackson since his death, as a medical person and as a music enthusiast. The movie did not delve into anything post June 25, so some questions were left unanswered, perhaps on purpose? BTW~ this was the first movie theater I have been to since I was 7 months preggers with Aria. To which Heidi quipped, "Wow. I don't know to be proud of you or feel really sorry for you!" Funny girl, that one. Anyway, we did have a great time. We had been planning this day for a long time, so it came slowly and went too quickly, not surprisingly. We'll have to go again, SOON!
I was almost prepared to post my predictions for week 9 today, cuz the NFL network advertising made it sound like Thursday games started today. But it actually starts next week (way to get my hopes up, tho... good job, boys!), so due to today's longer post, I will save that for another post. Now... should I start pulling out the Christmas stuff... decisions, decisions!
Sunday, November 1, 2009
Happy Halloween (a day late)
Craig, Heidi, Tony, Aria and I got together on Thursday evening to carve pumpkins. It really is alot of fun to do stuff with a crowd!
Aria helped to create this little pumpkin, a product of Heidi's TLC!;)
My jack-o-lantern pumpkin, thanks for the idea, Country Living magazine!
On to Halloween night. Aria picked out this costume like a month ago. She had never seen the Little Mermaid (at least all the way thru), but since purchasing this costume, she's seen it plenty of times. I curled her hair, added glitter cuz it's pretty (tho you can't really see it in the pix) and put on a bit of make up for funzies. Other than the wind blowing like crazy, it was a really mild evening, considering it was October 31.
I am biased, of course, but she could win those (creepy) child beauty pageants! She is certainly a girly girl and loved getting dressed up for this.
She had a successful run. We were out for an hour and went with Tony's cousin, Stephanie and her daughter Presley. In fact, their whole family showed up for the weekend to visit. While Tony and I were busy checking out some info. on the computer, Aria sat right there with us and chowed down. Maybe we should've paid a bit more attention, cuz about 2:30 that night, I heard wailing from Aria's room. I came in to find she'd lost all stomach contents from that evening! Not sure if she OD'd on candy, ate a bad piece or what, but the up-chucking lasted till afternoonish. (she felt well enough in the morning to go to church, however!) She has fully recovered, but I think we all learned a lesson!
Aria helped to create this little pumpkin, a product of Heidi's TLC!;)
My jack-o-lantern pumpkin, thanks for the idea, Country Living magazine!
On to Halloween night. Aria picked out this costume like a month ago. She had never seen the Little Mermaid (at least all the way thru), but since purchasing this costume, she's seen it plenty of times. I curled her hair, added glitter cuz it's pretty (tho you can't really see it in the pix) and put on a bit of make up for funzies. Other than the wind blowing like crazy, it was a really mild evening, considering it was October 31.
I am biased, of course, but she could win those (creepy) child beauty pageants! She is certainly a girly girl and loved getting dressed up for this.
She had a successful run. We were out for an hour and went with Tony's cousin, Stephanie and her daughter Presley. In fact, their whole family showed up for the weekend to visit. While Tony and I were busy checking out some info. on the computer, Aria sat right there with us and chowed down. Maybe we should've paid a bit more attention, cuz about 2:30 that night, I heard wailing from Aria's room. I came in to find she'd lost all stomach contents from that evening! Not sure if she OD'd on candy, ate a bad piece or what, but the up-chucking lasted till afternoonish. (she felt well enough in the morning to go to church, however!) She has fully recovered, but I think we all learned a lesson!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)