Has it been that long?
Well, I know that it's been nearly a year since I posted here, and so much has happened. I decided that I would take our "Christmas Letter" that we send to many of our family members and friends and post it here. (We didn't send to everyone this year, due to our income situation, which is explained in the Christmas letter.) So, here it is:
Well, another year has passed, and what a crazy one it has been! We almost didn’t write a letter this year, but changed our minds at the last minute. It just wouldn’t feel right not sharing what’s going on with all of our family and friends.
Well, another year has passed, and what a crazy one it has been! We almost didn’t write a letter this year, but changed our minds at the last minute. It just wouldn’t feel right not sharing what’s going on with all of our family and friends.
First, for those of you who don’t know, last year, Curt started working only four days per week. He has continued working only four days through 2010, unless he had a big project to complete. In addition, Erica lost her job in February. She really never thought that it could happen, but it did...after 13 years of working with the same people. Anyway, as they always say, every cloud has a silver lining. Since Erica lost her job, she was able to spend nearly two weeks in Myrtle Beach and was there for the birth of our granddaughter, Gracelynne Elizabeth, on February 28. What a blessing to be able to share such a special time with Scott, Jessica, and the boys! We don’t know that they’ll ever know how much Erica appreciated their putting up with her during such a tough time in her life and such a hectic time in theirs!!!
In April, we had the chance to visit Myrtle Beach together. It was the first time Curt got to meet Gracelynne (aka Gracie). We had a wonderful long weekend visiting with everyone. At home in Youngstown, we also celebrated Matthew’s third birthday, and Cari was home to visit for a few days.
In May, Erica had a rather exciting experience. Elton John (one of Erica’s favorites) actually played a concert right here in Youngstown! Although we were not thrilled with our seats, it was such a fun day...especially since we didn’t have to travel to Cleveland or Pittsburgh to see him.
June brought along Regionals, as usual. Although Curt’s skaters skated well, none of them went to Nationals, which is the first time since Curt became a coach that he did not have to travel to Nationals. It was a nice change of pace.
In August, Erica had her first overnight stay in the hospital (since she was a toddler). She went to the doctor with a pain in her side and a fever. When the doc saw her temp of 103, he sent her straight to St. Elizabeth's Hospital. Although they never figured out the problem, the fever was down, so she went home the next afternoon. On a brighter note, Cari and her boyfriend, Jeff, came to visit later in the month. We got to spend a great weekend with Bill, Amy, and Matthew at “camp,” while Cari and Jeff were here. We also went with Cari and Jeff to Cedar Point, where Erica realized that she’s really too old for that stuff! We also spent a day at the Canfield Fair with Cari, Jeff, Bill, and Matthew.
Then, in September, we took our annual week-long trip to Myrtle Beach for Ethan’s and Logan’s birthdays. We had a great condo, and the weather was perfect! Our September trip is always so much fun, whether we’re just sitting around, playing with the grandkids, or sight-seeing. It’s always so difficult to leave!
October and November were filled with the normal Autumn fun. We got to take a trip to Pittsburgh to see Jake play in a shoot-out tournament at the new Consol Energy Center. He did great, and we even got a behind-the-scenes tour of the Center. What fun! We went all-out for the Halloween decorations, as we usually do, and we had our annual Three-Dinner Thanksgiving. (For those of you who don’t know, we have our own turkey dinner for breakfast. Then we go to Curt’s family’s for another meal at 1:00 PM, and then we go to Erica’s family’s for another dinner at 4:00 PM.)
We’ve had so many fun and exciting things happen this year, that we almost forgot one important “little” piece of info. We forgot to mention that little Gracie is going to be a big sister sometime in the beginning for 2011. That’s right! Scott and Jessica are expecting another baby—a boy—on April 2, 2011. This will make baby #4 for them and grandchild #5 for us. (It seems like we are announcing a new addition to the family every year, doesn’t it?)
As of right now, we are preparing to have a great Christmas. Although Erica is still looking for a job, she has a possible opportunity that we hope to confirm over the next couple of weeks. Cari is coming for another visit during the week of Christmas, which is going to really brighten things around here. We are just so blessed! We wish we could share more, but we’re quickly running out of room again. So, we’ll close and wish you and yours a very Merry Christmas and a Happy, Healthy New Year. God Bless!
Much Love,
Curt and Erica
Reclaim the Passion? Is it possible?
Have you ever lost passion for something? I guess I should ask first if you’ve ever been passionate about something. I guess it’s hard to lose passion if you never had it in the first place. Anyway, as you may or may not know, I was a competitive roller skater. Although I am no longer a competitive skater, I am currently a certified skating coach (who has no students).
Recently, I’ve realized that I don’t like skating very much. I sometimes cringe when I think that I have to go to the rink. At first, I thought that it was just burnout. We were always at the rink, going to a competition, spending our vacation time on skating events. It was as if our whole life revolved around skating, and that was fine…for a while. So, I took a bit of time off.
After a few years of only going to the rink a few times a month, I thought that I’d be ready to get back into it. Curt kept up with it by coaching, and I would still go to competitions with him, including Regionals and Nationals. There were a few times that I thought, “Wow, I miss this.” But the thought would leave as quickly as it came.
Recently, Curt has decided that he wants to skate again. So, he’s been going to the rink on Saturday mornings (which is not normally in our schedule), and I, of course, have been going with him. However, I just can’t seem to get it back. It makes me sad to know that I once loved doing this so much, but now…it’s just not the same. I have so many people encouraging me to come back. I even have some who are challenging me to come back, but I’m still not sure that I want to.
I think much of my problem is that I’ve gained a lot of weight since I quit skating. Because of that, I’ve lost a lot of the skill that I once had. I’m afraid of embarrassing Curt (not to mention myself) by not being able to perform as well as I once did. Second, the sport seems to be dying a slow death. The national governing body doesn’t seem to be doing much to help things out (other than adding new events and sliding scales so that everyone can go to Nationals, if you consider that helping). Finally, I can’t get any students who are interested and willing to work. I can sometimes get them interested, but then they don’t want to stick with it. I end up spending most of my time poking my nose into Curt’s lessons, which makes him crazy, I’m sure.
If there is anything I miss about skating, it is skating with Curt. It was something that the two of us did together. Some couples bowl, some dance; Curt and I skated…and it was fun.
I just wonder if there is any way to get the passion back. I’m going to keep trying; I won’t give up. I just wonder if I will ever have the same passion for it that I did before.
Recently, I’ve realized that I don’t like skating very much. I sometimes cringe when I think that I have to go to the rink. At first, I thought that it was just burnout. We were always at the rink, going to a competition, spending our vacation time on skating events. It was as if our whole life revolved around skating, and that was fine…for a while. So, I took a bit of time off.
After a few years of only going to the rink a few times a month, I thought that I’d be ready to get back into it. Curt kept up with it by coaching, and I would still go to competitions with him, including Regionals and Nationals. There were a few times that I thought, “Wow, I miss this.” But the thought would leave as quickly as it came.
Recently, Curt has decided that he wants to skate again. So, he’s been going to the rink on Saturday mornings (which is not normally in our schedule), and I, of course, have been going with him. However, I just can’t seem to get it back. It makes me sad to know that I once loved doing this so much, but now…it’s just not the same. I have so many people encouraging me to come back. I even have some who are challenging me to come back, but I’m still not sure that I want to.
I think much of my problem is that I’ve gained a lot of weight since I quit skating. Because of that, I’ve lost a lot of the skill that I once had. I’m afraid of embarrassing Curt (not to mention myself) by not being able to perform as well as I once did. Second, the sport seems to be dying a slow death. The national governing body doesn’t seem to be doing much to help things out (other than adding new events and sliding scales so that everyone can go to Nationals, if you consider that helping). Finally, I can’t get any students who are interested and willing to work. I can sometimes get them interested, but then they don’t want to stick with it. I end up spending most of my time poking my nose into Curt’s lessons, which makes him crazy, I’m sure.
If there is anything I miss about skating, it is skating with Curt. It was something that the two of us did together. Some couples bowl, some dance; Curt and I skated…and it was fun.
I just wonder if there is any way to get the passion back. I’m going to keep trying; I won’t give up. I just wonder if I will ever have the same passion for it that I did before.
When the Police Knock on Your Door...
Okay, so here’s the deal. I got tickets (through work) to go to a Lake Erie Monsters’ hockey game in Cleveland on Tuesday night. So, we invited our friends, Tom and Crystal, to join us. The plan was to meet at our house, grab a quick bite to eat, and head to Cleveland.
So, I get home from work Tuesday to find Curt and Tom chatting in the kitchen. Crystal was expected to meet us about 15 minutes later. Curt explained that he had backed his car into the driveway and had Tom help him unload a large box and put it on the back porch. (Curt and I had picked up a rather large Christmas gift the day before, and we had left it in Curt's car.)
I went back to the bedroom to change clothes, and as I was coming back out, I saw Crystal pulling up, parking on the street with Tom’s vehicle. I let Crystal in, and we met the guys in the kitchen. After a few minutes of chatting, we decided to get on the road.
Crystal and I headed into the living room, only to find a police officer standing at the door, getting ready to knock! Before he could knock, I opened the door. He asked if I was the “homeowner,” so I said, “Yes.” (The first thing I thought was that, for some odd reason, he was going to tell us to move the cars that Tom and Crystal had parked on the street.) However, he said, “Your neighbor called and said that someone was breaking into your house. Can I come in and have a look around?” As I stepped back to let him in, I looked outside and saw 2 or 3 other officers in the front yard and 3 police cars on the street in front of the house.
As this was going on in the living room, Curt and Tom were still in the kitchen. Tom went to lock our back door and said to Curt, “Hey, there’s someone walking across your back yard.” When they went to look, there was a strong knock at the back door, which is when Crystal, the officer, and I walked into the kitchen. There was another officer (hand on his weapon) knocking at the back door. Tom unlocked the door to let him in...so, now we have two officers (not counting the ones still outside). Freaky!
We weren’t sure what was going on at this point. We headed back to the living room, and the first officer explained that a female neighbor “directly across the street” had called in that she saw someone trying to break into our house. He also said, “Although, we have reason to believe that she’s losing her mind.” We explained to him that our neighbor across the street wasn’t even home, so it couldn’t have been her calling. We thought that it must have been the elderly lady in the house diagonally across the street from us. He checked the address, and said, “Yep. That’s the house.”
By that time, the neighbors from two doors down were walking over to see if everything was okay, and I was nervous about leaving the house. Remember - We were about to leave for Cleveland and probably wouldn’t get home until after 11:00 PM. Did she simply mistake Curt and Tom for two people trying to break in or did she really see someone trying to break in? Who knows how long it was between the time she called and the time the police arrived? Maybe Curt and Tom has scared away whoever it was - if there was someone. It was nice to know, however, that the members of the neighborhood are watching out for each other! With this in mind, we went on our way, with our other neighbor promising to keep an eye on things.
Despite the rough start to our evening, we had a good time, and the Lake Erie Monsters won the game, beating the Grand Rapids Griffins (the Detroit Red Wings affiliate team) by a score of 6 to 2. What an evening!
So, I get home from work Tuesday to find Curt and Tom chatting in the kitchen. Crystal was expected to meet us about 15 minutes later. Curt explained that he had backed his car into the driveway and had Tom help him unload a large box and put it on the back porch. (Curt and I had picked up a rather large Christmas gift the day before, and we had left it in Curt's car.)
I went back to the bedroom to change clothes, and as I was coming back out, I saw Crystal pulling up, parking on the street with Tom’s vehicle. I let Crystal in, and we met the guys in the kitchen. After a few minutes of chatting, we decided to get on the road.
Crystal and I headed into the living room, only to find a police officer standing at the door, getting ready to knock! Before he could knock, I opened the door. He asked if I was the “homeowner,” so I said, “Yes.” (The first thing I thought was that, for some odd reason, he was going to tell us to move the cars that Tom and Crystal had parked on the street.) However, he said, “Your neighbor called and said that someone was breaking into your house. Can I come in and have a look around?” As I stepped back to let him in, I looked outside and saw 2 or 3 other officers in the front yard and 3 police cars on the street in front of the house.
As this was going on in the living room, Curt and Tom were still in the kitchen. Tom went to lock our back door and said to Curt, “Hey, there’s someone walking across your back yard.” When they went to look, there was a strong knock at the back door, which is when Crystal, the officer, and I walked into the kitchen. There was another officer (hand on his weapon) knocking at the back door. Tom unlocked the door to let him in...so, now we have two officers (not counting the ones still outside). Freaky!
We weren’t sure what was going on at this point. We headed back to the living room, and the first officer explained that a female neighbor “directly across the street” had called in that she saw someone trying to break into our house. He also said, “Although, we have reason to believe that she’s losing her mind.” We explained to him that our neighbor across the street wasn’t even home, so it couldn’t have been her calling. We thought that it must have been the elderly lady in the house diagonally across the street from us. He checked the address, and said, “Yep. That’s the house.”
By that time, the neighbors from two doors down were walking over to see if everything was okay, and I was nervous about leaving the house. Remember - We were about to leave for Cleveland and probably wouldn’t get home until after 11:00 PM. Did she simply mistake Curt and Tom for two people trying to break in or did she really see someone trying to break in? Who knows how long it was between the time she called and the time the police arrived? Maybe Curt and Tom has scared away whoever it was - if there was someone. It was nice to know, however, that the members of the neighborhood are watching out for each other! With this in mind, we went on our way, with our other neighbor promising to keep an eye on things.
Despite the rough start to our evening, we had a good time, and the Lake Erie Monsters won the game, beating the Grand Rapids Griffins (the Detroit Red Wings affiliate team) by a score of 6 to 2. What an evening!
"Scripture Memory made easy" - HA!
A few months back, I started a booklet called “Scripture Memory made easy,” which is supposed to be “an easy-to-understand pocket reference guide.” When you read the first few pages, it sounds so easy. You just write the theme, the subject, and the verse on a card, and you memorize 2 verses each week. As you go, you just keep adding verses each week, 2 per week, until you’ve learned 100 in a year. Sure, sounds easy, doesn’t it. Well, it’s not! The guide is easy to understand - absolutely - but that doesn’t make the memorization part any easier.
I was motivated to memorize scripture for several reasons. First, I could recall a verse that said something about hiding the word in my heart. After some research, I found it, and it actually reads, “I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.” (Psalm 119:11 NIV) I also wanted to have scripture easily accessible to share Jesus with others.
So, I started out with the recommended two verses a week. I found that I could usually learn the verse pretty easily, but the reference (book, chapter, and verse) was throwing me off. Then, the more I added on, the harder it got.
A couple of weeks ago (week 20 in the plan), I made a decision. I am not going to worry about memorizing 100 verses in a year. Instead, my plan is to learn each verse instead. I felt that it would be better for me to read the surrounding verses - sometimes even the whole chapter - to determine what that verse actually meant and how it should be used. So, I am now not only using note cards (as the guide has me doing), but I am also keeping a notebook that shows the verse, the context of the chapter, any special notes (from my study Bible), and my own observations, such as how I can apply that principle, subject, topic, etc. to my own way of living. After starting the more in-depth learning of the verses, I found that I really only knew about half of them.
Now, I am spending more time in the Word nearly every day, whether it’s studying my note cards, reading the surrounding verses, or reading the study notes. I am also able to see more clearly how I can apply the Word to my life - and hopefully share it with others!
I was motivated to memorize scripture for several reasons. First, I could recall a verse that said something about hiding the word in my heart. After some research, I found it, and it actually reads, “I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.” (Psalm 119:11 NIV) I also wanted to have scripture easily accessible to share Jesus with others.
So, I started out with the recommended two verses a week. I found that I could usually learn the verse pretty easily, but the reference (book, chapter, and verse) was throwing me off. Then, the more I added on, the harder it got.
A couple of weeks ago (week 20 in the plan), I made a decision. I am not going to worry about memorizing 100 verses in a year. Instead, my plan is to learn each verse instead. I felt that it would be better for me to read the surrounding verses - sometimes even the whole chapter - to determine what that verse actually meant and how it should be used. So, I am now not only using note cards (as the guide has me doing), but I am also keeping a notebook that shows the verse, the context of the chapter, any special notes (from my study Bible), and my own observations, such as how I can apply that principle, subject, topic, etc. to my own way of living. After starting the more in-depth learning of the verses, I found that I really only knew about half of them.
Now, I am spending more time in the Word nearly every day, whether it’s studying my note cards, reading the surrounding verses, or reading the study notes. I am also able to see more clearly how I can apply the Word to my life - and hopefully share it with others!
Need Some Input!
Okay...I've never been good at math or word problems, but I came across a situation today that is really bugging me. Can anyone help? Here's the situation:
Lunch costs $5. Steve, Dave, and John are all having lunch from the same place. So, Dave borrows $10 from his office's petty cash for lunch. Steve puts in another $10 to cover his lunch, and Jack puts in $5 for himself. (Jack now has $25 for 3 lunches, which total $15.) Dave replaces the $10 that he borrowed petty cash. Dave got no change back, so is he getting ripped off? Dave is told that he gets no change because he started out with nothing anyway.
I say that he is, but I could be totally off base. I'm so confused!!!!!!!!!
Lunch costs $5. Steve, Dave, and John are all having lunch from the same place. So, Dave borrows $10 from his office's petty cash for lunch. Steve puts in another $10 to cover his lunch, and Jack puts in $5 for himself. (Jack now has $25 for 3 lunches, which total $15.) Dave replaces the $10 that he borrowed petty cash. Dave got no change back, so is he getting ripped off? Dave is told that he gets no change because he started out with nothing anyway.
I say that he is, but I could be totally off base. I'm so confused!!!!!!!!!
For those who have asked about my job...
Since so many people have been asking, I thought that I’d just write a blog to explain about my job situation. First, let me stress that I have not lost my job. Second, I have to say that at least once a year, our office goes through this...wondering if we’ll have jobs next year.
I should probably provide a little bit of background information. I work for an insurance brokerage office, which specializes in commercial insurance for one major client. (We actually have two clients in our office, but one is really, really small compared to the other one.) There are 12 full-time and 2 part-time people in our office, all of us serving the one major client.
Earlier in the year, we started having problems with the smaller client. I won’t go into details, but I will say that there is the possibility that we will not have this client much longer (after December 1). Just recently, issues have surfaced with the "major" client, and we are not sure where we stand with them, either. (They are to renew on November 1.) Of course, all of this is "rumor."
My immediate supervisor is concerned, which makes me concerned. She even went so far as to tell me to update my resume. Scary!
I’m not really concerned about my job, but I am concerned about our healthcare benefits (which I carry for us). As a secretary, I shouldn’t have much trouble finding a job. (I’ve looked, and there are several out there right now.) The only problem could be the fact that I am an experienced secretary (with 20 years experience, 13 with the same boss), and many employers would rather hire someone with less experience to avoid paying higher salaries. Plus, I have accumulated 3 weeks vacation time, and lots of sick and personal time, which I would not be able to take with me. Oh, and there’s the wardrobe factor. I have worked in a casual atmosphere for so long that I don’t have the clothes required to work in a regular business setting!
Anyway, I am not going to let this bother me right now. I have too much fun stuff coming up in the next couple of weeks. Just keep me in mind if you hear of any openings for an experienced secretary with a strong marketing background.
I should probably provide a little bit of background information. I work for an insurance brokerage office, which specializes in commercial insurance for one major client. (We actually have two clients in our office, but one is really, really small compared to the other one.) There are 12 full-time and 2 part-time people in our office, all of us serving the one major client.
Earlier in the year, we started having problems with the smaller client. I won’t go into details, but I will say that there is the possibility that we will not have this client much longer (after December 1). Just recently, issues have surfaced with the "major" client, and we are not sure where we stand with them, either. (They are to renew on November 1.) Of course, all of this is "rumor."
My immediate supervisor is concerned, which makes me concerned. She even went so far as to tell me to update my resume. Scary!
I’m not really concerned about my job, but I am concerned about our healthcare benefits (which I carry for us). As a secretary, I shouldn’t have much trouble finding a job. (I’ve looked, and there are several out there right now.) The only problem could be the fact that I am an experienced secretary (with 20 years experience, 13 with the same boss), and many employers would rather hire someone with less experience to avoid paying higher salaries. Plus, I have accumulated 3 weeks vacation time, and lots of sick and personal time, which I would not be able to take with me. Oh, and there’s the wardrobe factor. I have worked in a casual atmosphere for so long that I don’t have the clothes required to work in a regular business setting!
Anyway, I am not going to let this bother me right now. I have too much fun stuff coming up in the next couple of weeks. Just keep me in mind if you hear of any openings for an experienced secretary with a strong marketing background.
To Go or Not To Go
I know that it’s been a while since I’ve written anything. I have been very busy, and it seems that every time I want to write something, I sit down, but nothing seems to sound right...until today.
There has been a lot of talk on Facebook lately about my high school reunion that’s coming up later this year. I have bounced back and forth about whether or not I should go. I’ve caught up with many classmates on Facebook, and there are some that I look forward to seeing again. However, there are a few that I’m not as excited about seeing...one in particular who I think could make the whole evening very emotional for me.
I don’t know if Eric will be there or not, but after all of my attempts to contact him (see my previous blogs on the subject here and here), it may be very difficult for me if he is there. I’m not going to worry about it too much, since I don’t even know if he’ll be there. In addition, I think that getting together with the few friends I really want to see outweighs seeing Eric.
So, I still sit here debating - to go or not to go to my 20th high school reunion.
There has been a lot of talk on Facebook lately about my high school reunion that’s coming up later this year. I have bounced back and forth about whether or not I should go. I’ve caught up with many classmates on Facebook, and there are some that I look forward to seeing again. However, there are a few that I’m not as excited about seeing...one in particular who I think could make the whole evening very emotional for me.
I don’t know if Eric will be there or not, but after all of my attempts to contact him (see my previous blogs on the subject here and here), it may be very difficult for me if he is there. I’m not going to worry about it too much, since I don’t even know if he’ll be there. In addition, I think that getting together with the few friends I really want to see outweighs seeing Eric.
So, I still sit here debating - to go or not to go to my 20th high school reunion.
Skating again...hesitantly
Okay, as you may have seen on my Facebook status, I have been trying to get myself back on skates. Why? Well, first, I need to do something more to get some of this weight off. Second, I really miss skating with my hubby. Third, I don’t think that I can teach skating effectively if I don’t have my skates on.
So, I took the skates out of the bag and tried them again, hoping that it was just a break-in issue. Unfortunately, the more I worked with them, the worse they hurt my feet. I figured that since I gained so much weight, my feet spread, and maybe I should just go have the boots stretched from a regular width to a wide width. So, I called the local boot and leather shop, and they assured me that it would be no problem, and it would only cost me $4.80. Wow! That’s a lot cheaper than buying new boots for my skates! So, right before we left for Nationals, I dropped off my skates to be stretched.
After we returned, I picked up my boots and headed to the rink with excitement that I haven’t felt in quite a while. I put the boots on and was quite disappointed - they didn’t feel any different than they had before. That was it! I was done! I’m giving it up. Who needs skating anyway?
Then, Curt mentioned a friend that had a size 6 for sale. He suggested that I contact her, but I protested saying that a 6 would be way too big, since my boots were only a 5. Well, I finally broke down and emailed her about the skates. (I had talked to her about buying them before, but I backed out, since I thought the boot stretching would work.)
On Saturday morning, I went to the rink to try the skates. It was strange wearing someone else’s skates, but overall, they fit better than mine did. I skated for a while - with Curt close by if not attached to my hip because I was quite nervous. To make a long story short, Curt and I talked, and we decided that I should buy them.
I wore them again yesterday for a while, and I’ll wear them again tonight. The only thing that needs done to them is cutting the boot down, but I’ll have that done while the rink is closed down next month. This may be another small step to help me get myself back into shape! Hey, maybe we’ll even skate competitively again in the future...the very distant future (so don’t get your hopes up). Right now it’s just one little step at a time...with skates on!
So, I took the skates out of the bag and tried them again, hoping that it was just a break-in issue. Unfortunately, the more I worked with them, the worse they hurt my feet. I figured that since I gained so much weight, my feet spread, and maybe I should just go have the boots stretched from a regular width to a wide width. So, I called the local boot and leather shop, and they assured me that it would be no problem, and it would only cost me $4.80. Wow! That’s a lot cheaper than buying new boots for my skates! So, right before we left for Nationals, I dropped off my skates to be stretched.
After we returned, I picked up my boots and headed to the rink with excitement that I haven’t felt in quite a while. I put the boots on and was quite disappointed - they didn’t feel any different than they had before. That was it! I was done! I’m giving it up. Who needs skating anyway?
Then, Curt mentioned a friend that had a size 6 for sale. He suggested that I contact her, but I protested saying that a 6 would be way too big, since my boots were only a 5. Well, I finally broke down and emailed her about the skates. (I had talked to her about buying them before, but I backed out, since I thought the boot stretching would work.)
On Saturday morning, I went to the rink to try the skates. It was strange wearing someone else’s skates, but overall, they fit better than mine did. I skated for a while - with Curt close by if not attached to my hip because I was quite nervous. To make a long story short, Curt and I talked, and we decided that I should buy them.
I wore them again yesterday for a while, and I’ll wear them again tonight. The only thing that needs done to them is cutting the boot down, but I’ll have that done while the rink is closed down next month. This may be another small step to help me get myself back into shape! Hey, maybe we’ll even skate competitively again in the future...the very distant future (so don’t get your hopes up). Right now it’s just one little step at a time...with skates on!
Forget the Olympics, Let's Just Get Ourselves Together!
With the recent news about the newly appointed sports for the 2016 Olympics, I felt that I needed to get a few things off my chest and out into the open. No one will probably even see it here, but I have to give it a try. Please keep in mind that I did not have any skaters skating in these events, nor was I skating in any of these events.
I just recently returned from the National Championships, and I have to say that I was really disappointed. Now, I first have to say that we were there for the “Adult” portion of the championships. (The “Youth” and “Elite” were held the previous week and a half.) Now, let me explain what disappointed me.
First, were the “ringers.” Do you know what a ringer is? The “informal” definition is “somebody or something fraudulently substituted in a competition.” The adult divisions include “B” events, which were originally supposed to be for beginners or skaters who are new to the sport. This year, the rules were changed by the powers that be, and skaters who had never placed at Nationals were allowed to return to the “B” events - despite Regional placements or years in competition. Therefore, you had teams/skaters who have been skating for years in the upper divisions returning to the lower divisions and blowing the new skaters away. So then, when you go to Nationals, you see all the same skaters that you saw before...because all of the new skaters were left in the dust, back home. If you didn’t have a ringer leaving people at home, it was probably because the events were too small, and they had to send everyone who skated to Nationals.
Okay, so now, we’re at Nationals. We’re watching a “B” division elimination in “prime time,” while some of the “A” division final events are being held at 6:00 in the morning. What’s up with that? And figures in the afternoon? Who has ever wanted to watch figures at 2:00 in the afternoon? Figures have always been first thing in the morning, except at Nationals.
Then, there has been a tradition (at least, since I’ve been going Nationals) that for finals during dance events (which, in case you don’t know, usually consists of 6 or 8 skaters/teams performing three dances), the crowd stands during the last dance to cheer for all of the competitors. It’s always been fun and exciting - especially when you’re skating in that event. You’re usually so tired, but the crowd always pumps you up on that last dance. When the announcer announced it, so many people in the crowd (if you could call it a crowd) ignored it. In fact, I even heard someone behind me say, “Why don’t these people just sit down? It’s not like the event is that good.”
Finally, there were the attitude issues. Some examples I witnessed included a coach telling a skater, “Now, don’t you dare take off that medal before you come off the floor.” (Skaters are awarded medals for first through fourth place, and they have to skate the entire length of the floor to the podium and then skate back.) The skater was (apparently) disappointed with the placement awarded! I skated Nationals several times, and I would have been happy with any medal! Another incident was when I heard one coach say, “Well, the judges just don’t know what they’re looking at.” Now, I may disagree with the judges, but I don’t ever tell a skater that the judges don’t know what they’re doing. (I have to say that the judging this year at both Regionals and Nationals, in my opinion, was a bit off, but then again, I’m not a judge.)
I think that many of our skaters and coaches have become spoiled. Instead of working to improve, let’s just fight to add another event...or let’s implement a sliding scale. (For those who don’t know, skaters/teams used to need a placement of first, second, or third to go to Nationals. That wasn’t enough, so they added fourth to the list. That still wasn’t quite enough, so now it depends on the number of people skating the event. The more skaters skating, the more skaters qualify for Nationals. Skaters have become accustomed to winning their local meets/competitions, so they think that they should automatically get a placement at Nationals. At least, that how it seems to me.
My whole point is that we need to start concentrating on building the sport, not getting into the Olympics. We need to concentrate on making our sport better, more entertaining, highlighting the best of the best, not just making new events or implementing sliding scales so more people can go to Nationals. Nationals has become a joke - it seems - to many skaters (and coaches). They no longer appreciate what the National Championships are all about! Maybe they should have skated “back in the day” when there were only 12 events to choose from, and you were either good enough or you weren’t - you either skated what was available or you didn't skate. Maybe they should have skated when I started...you could only skate the beginner levels for three years, and then you had to move - regardless of placement. You either worked your butt off to get better, or you were left in the dust.
Wow, this has really gotten loooooooong! I guess I’m getting frustrated because I’m actually trying to get back into things. I’m getting my skates back tonight, and I’m hoping to get some students going for next season. Okay...I’m going to shut up now! Until next time...
I just recently returned from the National Championships, and I have to say that I was really disappointed. Now, I first have to say that we were there for the “Adult” portion of the championships. (The “Youth” and “Elite” were held the previous week and a half.) Now, let me explain what disappointed me.
First, were the “ringers.” Do you know what a ringer is? The “informal” definition is “somebody or something fraudulently substituted in a competition.” The adult divisions include “B” events, which were originally supposed to be for beginners or skaters who are new to the sport. This year, the rules were changed by the powers that be, and skaters who had never placed at Nationals were allowed to return to the “B” events - despite Regional placements or years in competition. Therefore, you had teams/skaters who have been skating for years in the upper divisions returning to the lower divisions and blowing the new skaters away. So then, when you go to Nationals, you see all the same skaters that you saw before...because all of the new skaters were left in the dust, back home. If you didn’t have a ringer leaving people at home, it was probably because the events were too small, and they had to send everyone who skated to Nationals.
Okay, so now, we’re at Nationals. We’re watching a “B” division elimination in “prime time,” while some of the “A” division final events are being held at 6:00 in the morning. What’s up with that? And figures in the afternoon? Who has ever wanted to watch figures at 2:00 in the afternoon? Figures have always been first thing in the morning, except at Nationals.
Then, there has been a tradition (at least, since I’ve been going Nationals) that for finals during dance events (which, in case you don’t know, usually consists of 6 or 8 skaters/teams performing three dances), the crowd stands during the last dance to cheer for all of the competitors. It’s always been fun and exciting - especially when you’re skating in that event. You’re usually so tired, but the crowd always pumps you up on that last dance. When the announcer announced it, so many people in the crowd (if you could call it a crowd) ignored it. In fact, I even heard someone behind me say, “Why don’t these people just sit down? It’s not like the event is that good.”
Finally, there were the attitude issues. Some examples I witnessed included a coach telling a skater, “Now, don’t you dare take off that medal before you come off the floor.” (Skaters are awarded medals for first through fourth place, and they have to skate the entire length of the floor to the podium and then skate back.) The skater was (apparently) disappointed with the placement awarded! I skated Nationals several times, and I would have been happy with any medal! Another incident was when I heard one coach say, “Well, the judges just don’t know what they’re looking at.” Now, I may disagree with the judges, but I don’t ever tell a skater that the judges don’t know what they’re doing. (I have to say that the judging this year at both Regionals and Nationals, in my opinion, was a bit off, but then again, I’m not a judge.)
I think that many of our skaters and coaches have become spoiled. Instead of working to improve, let’s just fight to add another event...or let’s implement a sliding scale. (For those who don’t know, skaters/teams used to need a placement of first, second, or third to go to Nationals. That wasn’t enough, so they added fourth to the list. That still wasn’t quite enough, so now it depends on the number of people skating the event. The more skaters skating, the more skaters qualify for Nationals. Skaters have become accustomed to winning their local meets/competitions, so they think that they should automatically get a placement at Nationals. At least, that how it seems to me.
My whole point is that we need to start concentrating on building the sport, not getting into the Olympics. We need to concentrate on making our sport better, more entertaining, highlighting the best of the best, not just making new events or implementing sliding scales so more people can go to Nationals. Nationals has become a joke - it seems - to many skaters (and coaches). They no longer appreciate what the National Championships are all about! Maybe they should have skated “back in the day” when there were only 12 events to choose from, and you were either good enough or you weren’t - you either skated what was available or you didn't skate. Maybe they should have skated when I started...you could only skate the beginner levels for three years, and then you had to move - regardless of placement. You either worked your butt off to get better, or you were left in the dust.
Wow, this has really gotten loooooooong! I guess I’m getting frustrated because I’m actually trying to get back into things. I’m getting my skates back tonight, and I’m hoping to get some students going for next season. Okay...I’m going to shut up now! Until next time...
June 2009 Update
It’s been nearly a month since my last blog (other than the poem, which doesn’t count since I didn’t write it), and I thought it was about time to tell everyone what’s been going on with us.
It has been crazy around the Baun residence lately!
As usual, this time of year, things have been really busy. First, there was all the time spent watching the Stanley Cup Finals at the beginning of the month. Then, Curt and I have season tickets to the Mahoning Valley Thunder (AF2 Football), and we had two games in two weeks. Usually they are spaced out a little more than that. On June 19, we took a friend and her son (who I think is now 7 years old) to see one of the games. It was actually the best game of the year! The game on the 27th was Fireworks Night, so we got home a little later than usual.
Then, between the two Thunder games, we had the Great Lakes Regional Roller Skating Championships in Romeoville, Illinois. Obviously, Curt and I were not skating, but Curt had students that were. Out of the three entries (four students skating - two solo and one team), one solo skater qualified for the National Championships in August. So, on August 7, we will be heading to Peoria, Illinois for the National Championships.
Then yesterday, Sunday, June 28, was a big day for me. I was baptized. It was such an amazing experience, and I don’t even know how to begin to describe it…so I won’t. (LOL) I’ll just say that it was so great to have Curt there, in the water with me (pictures on FB), and to have my parents there, as well as Bill, Amy, and Matthew. After church, we went to eat with my parents. We got to spend a little time with Matthew later in the afternoon, and we visited with long-time family friends at Curt’s parents’ house. It was such an awesome day that I didn’t want it to end!
However, here it is…Monday…and I’m back at work. I’m so glad to have a long weekend coming up. Of course, as usual, we have a full, busy weekend planned. I think we’ll have a free weekend in the middle of August! So, until I have some free time again…
It has been crazy around the Baun residence lately!
As usual, this time of year, things have been really busy. First, there was all the time spent watching the Stanley Cup Finals at the beginning of the month. Then, Curt and I have season tickets to the Mahoning Valley Thunder (AF2 Football), and we had two games in two weeks. Usually they are spaced out a little more than that. On June 19, we took a friend and her son (who I think is now 7 years old) to see one of the games. It was actually the best game of the year! The game on the 27th was Fireworks Night, so we got home a little later than usual.
Then, between the two Thunder games, we had the Great Lakes Regional Roller Skating Championships in Romeoville, Illinois. Obviously, Curt and I were not skating, but Curt had students that were. Out of the three entries (four students skating - two solo and one team), one solo skater qualified for the National Championships in August. So, on August 7, we will be heading to Peoria, Illinois for the National Championships.
Then yesterday, Sunday, June 28, was a big day for me. I was baptized. It was such an amazing experience, and I don’t even know how to begin to describe it…so I won’t. (LOL) I’ll just say that it was so great to have Curt there, in the water with me (pictures on FB), and to have my parents there, as well as Bill, Amy, and Matthew. After church, we went to eat with my parents. We got to spend a little time with Matthew later in the afternoon, and we visited with long-time family friends at Curt’s parents’ house. It was such an awesome day that I didn’t want it to end!
However, here it is…Monday…and I’m back at work.
Ain't
This was sent to me by a dear friend of our family. I thought that it was just too cute not to share!
He was just a little boy,
On a week's first day.
Wandering home from Bible school,
And dawdling on the way.
He scuffed his shoes into the grass;
He even found a caterpillar.
He found a fluffy milkweed pod,
And blew out all the 'filler.'
A bird's nest in a tree overhead,
So wisely placed up so high.
Was just another wonder,
That caught his eager eye.
A neighbour watched his zig zag course,
And hailed him from the lawn;
Asked him where he'd been that day
And what was going on.
'I've been to Bible School ,'
He said and turned a piece of sod.
He picked up a wiggly worm replying,
'I've learned a lot about God.'
'M'm very fine way,' the neighbour said,
'for a boy to spend his time.'
'If you'll tell me where God is,
I'll give you a brand new dime.'
Quick as a flash the answer came!
Nor were his accents faint.
'I'll give you a dollar, Mister,
If you can tell me where God ain't.'
Have a great week!
He was just a little boy,
On a week's first day.
Wandering home from Bible school,
And dawdling on the way.
He scuffed his shoes into the grass;
He even found a caterpillar.
He found a fluffy milkweed pod,
And blew out all the 'filler.'
A bird's nest in a tree overhead,
So wisely placed up so high.
Was just another wonder,
That caught his eager eye.
A neighbour watched his zig zag course,
And hailed him from the lawn;
Asked him where he'd been that day
And what was going on.
'I've been to Bible School ,'
He said and turned a piece of sod.
He picked up a wiggly worm replying,
'I've learned a lot about God.'
'M'm very fine way,' the neighbour said,
'for a boy to spend his time.'
'If you'll tell me where God is,
I'll give you a brand new dime.'
Quick as a flash the answer came!
Nor were his accents faint.
'I'll give you a dollar, Mister,
If you can tell me where God ain't.'
Have a great week!
I can feel the Lord working…
I can feel the Lord working in my life…Really, I can! I know that may sound crazy to some of you, while other know exactly what I am talking about. Some may say that it’s just a change in my attitude, while others would say that because of the Lord working in my life, my attitude has changed.
Now, I’m not saying that every day I wake up feeling good and ready to jump feet first into whatever I encounter. No…that’s not it at all. There are just things that I cannot explain away with “simple” logic. Let me give you a huge example, one that has really just hit home with me today.
Recently at New Hope, we were going through a series on recovery from our addictions, hang-ups, etc. I kept trying to figure out what my hang-up was. I conquered my smoking addiction a while ago, so that couldn’t be it. Could it? No, because when I say I conquered it is because I finally had no more temptation to pick up a cigarette. Could my hang-up be overeating or eating too much junk. Yeah, that could be it, but I like just as many healthy foods as I do junk foods, and I’ve really been doing well at controlling the junk-food cravings and eating healthier foods. Could it be laziness? I don’t do nearly enough physical activity, and it is causing me some health issues. Yeah, I suppose that could be it, too.
There were so many things that I thought could be a hang-up, but I felt that it was a hopeless situation to try to pinpoint just one on which to focus my efforts. I kept asking the question: Why is it so easy to get addicted to bad things, like smoking or drugs, yet it is so difficult to get addicted to things that are good for you, like eating right and exercising? What’s up with that?
How quickly things have changed for me! I prayed about these things during the recovery teaching series at New Hope, and I was getting frustrated that I couldn’t find my answer. Then, about a week after the series ended, it hit me! I finally pinpointed one thing that could really improve my life and the lives of those around me. I realized that my biggest hang-up (right now, anyway) is being lazy. Now, that may not sound like a major thing to most people, but it is a major thing with me. I don’t want to do anything. I go home, eat dinner, and sit around doing nothing. Sure, once in a while I clean a little, do dishes, work outside, but not nearly like I should…and my health is seriously paying the price. I have gained a lot of weight, which is causing problems with my breathing and my blood pressure, not to mention my sore feet from carrying all this extra weight. My doctor actually told me last year that if I don’t lose some weight and bring down my BP, it will kill me. It's also keeping me from skating with Curt, from getting more involved in teaching skating, and from playing with the kids in our lives.
Okay…so I found my hang-up. Now, what do I do about it? I still was not motivated. Instead of actually doing something, I would sit and think, “I should be…”
One morning, I said to Curt as he was leaving for work, “I found my hang-up, and it’s laziness. Have to stop being lazy, get off my butt, and do things. I’ll start by moving the Wii so I can do the Wii Fit more often.” He leaned over, kissed me, and said, “Well then, do it!”
That’s all it took! It seems like I actually had to tell someone about my hang-up before anything started working. I moved the Wii, and I’ve been doing some Wii Fit Yoga, aerobics, and balance games every day. I started about two weeks ago now, and I could only do two Yoga poses, one or two balance games, and about 10 minutes of aerobics (about 15 minutes total). I didn’t even think about the strength training exercises! Now, I’m up to 4 Yoga poses, 20 minutes of aerobics, and three balance games, about 30 minutes total. (I’m still not even thinking about the strength training. I’ll save that until next month since my muscles are sore enough as it is!)
I’m feeling motivated like I never have before. I no longer feel like I have to do this; I want to do this. I feel that the Lord has some plans for me, and this was another step…getting my body back into shape. (The first step was the conquering of the smoking habit…not the quitting part, the conquering part! Maybe sometime, I’ll explain that better, but this is already getting really long!)
I realize that I have other hang-ups, faults, addictions, etc., but I just keep thinking about the saying I’ve seen many times and in many places over the years, “Please be patient. God isn’t finished with me yet.” I truly feel Him working in my life right now, and I can’t wait to see where He leads me next!
Now, I’m not saying that every day I wake up feeling good and ready to jump feet first into whatever I encounter. No…that’s not it at all. There are just things that I cannot explain away with “simple” logic. Let me give you a huge example, one that has really just hit home with me today.
Recently at New Hope, we were going through a series on recovery from our addictions, hang-ups, etc. I kept trying to figure out what my hang-up was. I conquered my smoking addiction a while ago, so that couldn’t be it. Could it? No, because when I say I conquered it is because I finally had no more temptation to pick up a cigarette. Could my hang-up be overeating or eating too much junk. Yeah, that could be it, but I like just as many healthy foods as I do junk foods, and I’ve really been doing well at controlling the junk-food cravings and eating healthier foods. Could it be laziness? I don’t do nearly enough physical activity, and it is causing me some health issues. Yeah, I suppose that could be it, too.
There were so many things that I thought could be a hang-up, but I felt that it was a hopeless situation to try to pinpoint just one on which to focus my efforts. I kept asking the question: Why is it so easy to get addicted to bad things, like smoking or drugs, yet it is so difficult to get addicted to things that are good for you, like eating right and exercising? What’s up with that?
How quickly things have changed for me! I prayed about these things during the recovery teaching series at New Hope, and I was getting frustrated that I couldn’t find my answer. Then, about a week after the series ended, it hit me! I finally pinpointed one thing that could really improve my life and the lives of those around me. I realized that my biggest hang-up (right now, anyway) is being lazy. Now, that may not sound like a major thing to most people, but it is a major thing with me. I don’t want to do anything. I go home, eat dinner, and sit around doing nothing. Sure, once in a while I clean a little, do dishes, work outside, but not nearly like I should…and my health is seriously paying the price. I have gained a lot of weight, which is causing problems with my breathing and my blood pressure, not to mention my sore feet from carrying all this extra weight. My doctor actually told me last year that if I don’t lose some weight and bring down my BP, it will kill me. It's also keeping me from skating with Curt, from getting more involved in teaching skating, and from playing with the kids in our lives.
Okay…so I found my hang-up. Now, what do I do about it? I still was not motivated. Instead of actually doing something, I would sit and think, “I should be…”
One morning, I said to Curt as he was leaving for work, “I found my hang-up, and it’s laziness. Have to stop being lazy, get off my butt, and do things. I’ll start by moving the Wii so I can do the Wii Fit more often.” He leaned over, kissed me, and said, “Well then, do it!”
That’s all it took! It seems like I actually had to tell someone about my hang-up before anything started working. I moved the Wii, and I’ve been doing some Wii Fit Yoga, aerobics, and balance games every day. I started about two weeks ago now, and I could only do two Yoga poses, one or two balance games, and about 10 minutes of aerobics (about 15 minutes total). I didn’t even think about the strength training exercises! Now, I’m up to 4 Yoga poses, 20 minutes of aerobics, and three balance games, about 30 minutes total. (I’m still not even thinking about the strength training. I’ll save that until next month since my muscles are sore enough as it is!)
I’m feeling motivated like I never have before. I no longer feel like I have to do this; I want to do this. I feel that the Lord has some plans for me, and this was another step…getting my body back into shape. (The first step was the conquering of the smoking habit…not the quitting part, the conquering part! Maybe sometime, I’ll explain that better, but this is already getting really long!)
I realize that I have other hang-ups, faults, addictions, etc., but I just keep thinking about the saying I’ve seen many times and in many places over the years, “Please be patient. God isn’t finished with me yet.” I truly feel Him working in my life right now, and I can’t wait to see where He leads me next!
FINAL Follow-Up to "I Did Something Crazy!"
Well, it's been a month since I sent the letter to my former best friend, Eric (aka Carlos). I was really hoping that I would hear something…anything…from him…even if it was just to say, “Leave me alone.” However, I have heard nothing…absolutely nothing.
I am quite disappointed. I have had three dear friends in this life…I have re-established relationships with two of them (Matt and Laura), but apparently, re-establishing a relationship with Eric is not meant to be.
Matt and I have known each other for nearly 20 years. We went through a few years of not talking to each other at all (long story), but we put all that behind us, and we’ve been friends now for many years. I’m confident that we will remain friends for many more years to come. As for Laura, it’s great to have her around again. We were never the best at keeping in touch, but we’ve now established the understanding that we may not always communicate, but we are always there if needed. She’s truly one of my dearest friends, and it really helps that she lives so close to me now!
I am hoping that these friendships will continue to change and grow. Nevertheless, I have to say that I am saddened by not hearing from Eric. I just have to resign myself to the fact that I have done my part. I have tried, but it just did not work out as I had hoped. I don’t know what mistakes I made with Eric, but I will try my best to never let anything like this happen with any of my other friends.
I was really hoping that I would hear something…anything…from him…
I am quite disappointed. I have had three dear friends in this life…I have re-established relationships with two of them (Matt and Laura), but apparently, re-establishing a relationship with Eric is not meant to be.
Matt and I have known each other for nearly 20 years. We went through a few years of not talking to each other at all (long story), but we put all that behind us, and we’ve been friends now for many years. I’m confident that we will remain friends for many more years to come. As for Laura, it’s great to have her around again. We were never the best at keeping in touch, but we’ve now established the understanding that we may not always communicate, but we are always there if needed. She’s truly one of my dearest friends, and it really helps that she lives so close to me now!
I am hoping that these friendships will continue to change and grow. Nevertheless, I have to say that I am saddened by not hearing from Eric. I just have to resign myself to the fact that I have done my part. I have tried, but it just did not work out as I had hoped. I don’t know what mistakes I made with Eric, but I will try my best to never let anything like this happen with any of my other friends.
I was really hoping that I would hear something…anything…from him…
Our Wonderful Weekend
What a great weekend we had this past weekend! Although it was extremely busy, it was extremely fun, and I’m extremely disappointed that it’s over. Oh, well…all good things…blah, blah, blah!
What made the weekend so wonderful, you might ask. Well, in case you didn’t already know it, Scott (Curt’s son), Jessie (Scott’s wife), Ethan (our grandson), and Logan (our grandson, Ethan’s brother) drove from their home in Myrtle Beach to visit the family here in Ohio. It was the weekend of Matthew’s second birthday party. (Matthew is our grandson who lives locally.) For the first time, the gang stayed with us at our house. (We finally had a bedroom for them to stay in, thanks to all the remodeling we’ve done!)
What made the weekend so wonderful, you might ask. Well, in case you didn’t already know it, Scott (Curt’s son), Jessie (Scott’s wife), Ethan (our grandson), and Logan (our grandson, Ethan’s brother) drove from their home in Myrtle Beach to visit the family here in Ohio. It was the weekend of Matthew’s second birthday party. (Matthew is our grandson who lives locally.) For the first time, the gang stayed with us at our house. (We finally had a bedroom for them to stay in, thanks to all the remodeling we’ve done!)
It was so much fun!
We did lots of things in the few days we had together. We (Curt and I) visited with them ourselves. On Friday, we took them to visit with Curt’s parents, which was the first time Curt’s parents got to see their newest great-grandchild, Logan. We stopped by my office so the girls at work could see the kids in person, instead of just photos. Then, on Saturday, after a lovely morning together, we met up again at Matthew’s birthday party. It was so much fun to see all the kids playing together and watching Ethan flirt with the adorable little girls (all sisters) at the party. On Sunday, we had the Bauns and the Ottersons/Currys over to our house to spend some time with everyone. My mom even came into town early to go to church with me at New Hope. (She really enjoyed it, which also made me very happy.) Since we didn’t get to spend Easter with Ethan and Logan, we did an Easter-egg hunt for Ethan on Sunday. Jake (our nephew) and Megan (our niece) helped him hunt for his eggs and open them all when he was finished. We played outside, playing hockey (the older “kids”), swinging on the swing, and blowing bubbles. After the Otterson/Curry crew headed back to PA, we took everyone over to see “Aunt Jennifer’s” new house. After the tour of the new house, it was a quick stop at the store and then home to crash.
On Monday morning, the fun ended when they packed up to go back to Myrtle Beach. They left early in the morning, before Curt and I had to go to work. It was fun while it lasted, and I can’t wait to do it again.
I told Curt that I think it’s our turn to go there…to the sunny south…but I don’t know if I can talk him into it or not. All I can do is try.
I’d love to write out everything that went on, just so I can look back on it one day and remember. I just don’t have the time, right now. Maybe I will be able to do it over the next few days and/or weeks. It was just such a wonderful time, and I wanted to share it with everyone!
Follow-Up to "I did something crazy!"
It’s been a week since I mailed the letter to Eric. Since he only lives an hour from me, I’m assuming that he would have received it on Friday or Saturday (at the latest). I have not heard anything yet. Should I be disappointed? Should I just give it up? I’m not quite sure what to think. I provided him with everything he needed to contact me; I even gave him my schedule.
I think I’ll give it a few more days - maybe a week - before I give up completely.
I think I’ll give it a few more days - maybe a week - before I give up completely.
I did something crazy!
I know, that may be hard to believe (not), but I did. To make a long story short, I wrote a letter to someone with whom I have not communicated in over a year. Now, let me explain a little bit more, and you may see why I think it’s crazy.
I wrote a letter to Eric (aka Carlos). Carlos was my best friend from sixth grade all the way through college and beyond. He stuck by me through some really tough stuff; we were always together. When we started college (at BC3), I used to give him a ride every day. Then, when he transferred to Slippery Rock, I would pick him up on Fridays to bring him home. When I started skating in 1993, he would go with me just so I didn’t have to go alone. He’d sit in the snack bar or a corner somewhere and read.
Now, I’m not really sure what happened, but as sometimes happens with friends, we grew apart. I moved to Boardman and eventually got married. He is still in Butler, and that’s about all I know anymore.
The last communication (email) I can find from him was in December 2007. I’ve tried emailing several times, but I haven’t had a response since that one in 2007. (In that last email, he mentioned that he was having trouble with his email, so he may have a new email address.) I tried sending a text message to his cell phone, but I never got a response either. (Just so you know, I hesitate to call since I do not know what kind of schedule he keeps.) I finally decided that, as my last attempt, I would write him a letter and mail it to the last known address that I have.
I first got the urge to contact him around the Holidays. In addition, some of the messages at New Hope over the past months have been about relationships and fixing broken ones. This is one relationship that I would really like to fix. Plus, as some of you may know, Carlos and I were both really into Star Trek, and with the new Trek movie coming out, I think about him even more often. I have never had another friend like him, and I don’t know that I ever will.
We’ll just wait and see what happens if/when he receives the letter. What a crazy move, huh?
I wrote a letter to Eric (aka Carlos). Carlos was my best friend from sixth grade all the way through college and beyond. He stuck by me through some really tough stuff; we were always together. When we started college (at BC3), I used to give him a ride every day. Then, when he transferred to Slippery Rock, I would pick him up on Fridays to bring him home. When I started skating in 1993, he would go with me just so I didn’t have to go alone. He’d sit in the snack bar or a corner somewhere and read.
Now, I’m not really sure what happened, but as sometimes happens with friends, we grew apart. I moved to Boardman and eventually got married. He is still in Butler, and that’s about all I know anymore.
The last communication (email) I can find from him was in December 2007. I’ve tried emailing several times, but I haven’t had a response since that one in 2007. (In that last email, he mentioned that he was having trouble with his email, so he may have a new email address.) I tried sending a text message to his cell phone, but I never got a response either. (Just so you know, I hesitate to call since I do not know what kind of schedule he keeps.) I finally decided that, as my last attempt, I would write him a letter and mail it to the last known address that I have.
I first got the urge to contact him around the Holidays. In addition, some of the messages at New Hope over the past months have been about relationships and fixing broken ones. This is one relationship that I would really like to fix. Plus, as some of you may know, Carlos and I were both really into Star Trek, and with the new Trek movie coming out, I think about him even more often. I have never had another friend like him, and I don’t know that I ever will.
We’ll just wait and see what happens if/when he receives the letter. What a crazy move, huh?
General Life Update
Well, after that crazy post from yesterday (and the follow-up this morning), I thought that I should write about something a little more cheery! So, this is just a general life update as of the end of March.
Curt and I are still remodeling. We started with the bathroom (about 2 years ago). We have four bedrooms in our house, but only one of them had a bed in it! So, we started with the smallest room, which we made into an office (with the computers and digital piano). Then, we moved on to the guest bedroom, which we finished a few weeks ago. We then moved all of the stuff from the master bedroom into the guest bedroom, and we are now finishing the painting in the master bedroom. I am so tired of the smell of paint! I really hope to be done with the painting within the next 36-48 hours. I can’t take it any more! LOL
We found out last week that Scott, Jessica, Ethan, and Logan will be coming to visit in April, for Matthew’s second birthday! We are so excited, and we are counting down the days! They should be arriving sometime on Friday, April 17 and heading home on Monday, April 20. Matthew’s birthday party is on Saturday, April 18, so we’re planning to spend all day on Sunday with Scott, Jessica, and the boys. This will be the first time that most of the family will get to meet Logan. Bill, Amy, Matthew, Curt, and I are the only ones who have met Logan. I just can’t wait for Curt’s family and my family to meet him, too.
I had a friend who is experienced with eBay sell my old synthesizer for me. I never thought that I would part with my old Roland Juno-106, but I finally did it. It wasn’t easy, but my new digital piano is so cool, and my old Roland just sat in the closet. Out with the old…
I have decided that I’m sick of being fat and out of shape. However, with every evening being spent painting, it’s been tough to do much about it, other than watching what I eat. That doesn’t seem to be doing much, so I decided that I wanted to start walking again. I love walking! It gives me time to think, pray, and spend time outside. The problem is that no one wants me to walk by myself (for safety reasons). So, I found a partner to walk with me. Unfortunately, she was only able to go with me once last week – which I guess is better than nothing – and with our painting and remodeling going on, I don’t have much time to do it either. I’ll keep you posted on this whole situation as it progresses (or doesn't progress – lol)!
Finally, the Mahoning Valley Thunder games started again last Friday. (In case you didn’t know, that is the local Arena 2 Football team.) We got our season tickets again, although we changed from where we were last year. The first game was great, and I can’t wait to go to the next one!
I would really enjoy hearing what’s going on with all of you. Please drop me a note, even if it’s just to say, “HI.”
Until next time...Take care!
Curt and I are still remodeling. We started with the bathroom (about 2 years ago). We have four bedrooms in our house, but only one of them had a bed in it! So, we started with the smallest room, which we made into an office (with the computers and digital piano). Then, we moved on to the guest bedroom, which we finished a few weeks ago. We then moved all of the stuff from the master bedroom into the guest bedroom, and we are now finishing the painting in the master bedroom. I am so tired of the smell of paint! I really hope to be done with the painting within the next 36-48 hours. I can’t take it any more! LOL
We found out last week that Scott, Jessica, Ethan, and Logan will be coming to visit in April, for Matthew’s second birthday! We are so excited, and we are counting down the days! They should be arriving sometime on Friday, April 17 and heading home on Monday, April 20. Matthew’s birthday party is on Saturday, April 18, so we’re planning to spend all day on Sunday with Scott, Jessica, and the boys. This will be the first time that most of the family will get to meet Logan. Bill, Amy, Matthew, Curt, and I are the only ones who have met Logan. I just can’t wait for Curt’s family and my family to meet him, too.
I had a friend who is experienced with eBay sell my old synthesizer for me. I never thought that I would part with my old Roland Juno-106, but I finally did it. It wasn’t easy, but my new digital piano is so cool, and my old Roland just sat in the closet. Out with the old…
I have decided that I’m sick of being fat and out of shape. However, with every evening being spent painting, it’s been tough to do much about it, other than watching what I eat. That doesn’t seem to be doing much, so I decided that I wanted to start walking again. I love walking! It gives me time to think, pray, and spend time outside. The problem is that no one wants me to walk by myself (for safety reasons). So, I found a partner to walk with me. Unfortunately, she was only able to go with me once last week – which I guess is better than nothing – and with our painting and remodeling going on, I don’t have much time to do it either. I’ll keep you posted on this whole situation as it progresses (or doesn't progress – lol)!
Finally, the Mahoning Valley Thunder games started again last Friday. (In case you didn’t know, that is the local Arena 2 Football team.) We got our season tickets again, although we changed from where we were last year. The first game was great, and I can’t wait to go to the next one!
I would really enjoy hearing what’s going on with all of you. Please drop me a note, even if it’s just to say, “HI.”
Until next time...Take care!
Another Example (Follow-up from Yesterday)
Just as a follow-up to yesterday's post, I need to vent again. I cannot believe that people can put up with this!
In my post yesterday, I made a comment about someone in our office making fun of another "for fun." Well, here is an example of what goes on:
The abuser walked in the door this morning and looked at his favorite target. He told her, "...for the next ten minutes, I won't even tease you about your stupid hair or about being fat. I'll give you ten minutes." (No, this is NOT an exaggeration!)
When she was pregnant, the abuser would call her fat, fatso, chubbo, etc. I finally said to him one day, "You know...that baby can hear everything you say." He apologized but continued to do it, adding in a nice tone of voice, "I don't mean you, baby; I mean your mother."
Why does she put up with it? I asked her about it yesterday, and she just shrugged and said, "He'll see, someday, when I lose the baby weight...then he can kiss my non-fat butt."
If that stuff was directed at me, I'd be a total basket case (instead of just a semi-basket case).
In my post yesterday, I made a comment about someone in our office making fun of another "for fun." Well, here is an example of what goes on:
The abuser walked in the door this morning and looked at his favorite target. He told her, "...for the next ten minutes, I won't even tease you about your stupid hair or about being fat. I'll give you ten minutes." (No, this is NOT an exaggeration!)
When she was pregnant, the abuser would call her fat, fatso, chubbo, etc. I finally said to him one day, "You know...that baby can hear everything you say." He apologized but continued to do it, adding in a nice tone of voice, "I don't mean you, baby; I mean your mother."
Why does she put up with it? I asked her about it yesterday, and she just shrugged and said, "He'll see, someday, when I lose the baby weight...then he can kiss my non-fat butt."
If that stuff was directed at me, I'd be a total basket case (instead of just a semi-basket case).
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