For this Christmas, my goal was to bring some cheer to my Mom. So we went to WV to spend the time with her. This involves 4 hour drives each way & overnight stays at my brother-in-law's home. (They are really great about having us stay there.)
We took her to the hairdresser, took her out to eat, washed her car. On Monday, Xmas eve, we cooked a nice meal for her and my sis & family. It was a lot of fun.
I missed my kids though. Hopefully next year I can be with them.
Anyways, we drove home Xmas Eve late at night, avoided a lot of traffic that way.
Thursday, December 27, 2007
Urban Living Adventures
I stepped out onto my balcony a couple of weeks ago. It was very early in the morning, about 6:15 AM or so. I wanted to see the sun rise, as it was looking interesting, very pink or red in color. Low and behold, just as I stepped out, I was greeted by the loud crashing of two automobiles on Rockville Pike. Some fool had just plowed into the car ahead of him. Very soon sirens were wailing and the ambulance arrived. Not quite what I had in mind for my morning awakening.
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
Post article on "How do you find our area compares?"
So many people in the DC area are from somewhere else, it creates a unique population, sort of transient in nature. Recently the Washington Post had a brief piece listing comments of a few "man on the street" type people. This was pretty interesting. I liked the person from Wyoming who said under "What I miss most from my home state:" He missed the stars in the vast night sky.
That is one of my most missed things from the Sierras.
I think he was also the person who mentioned that he likes that people here actually do attempt outdoor activities, such as hiking, walking, and sometimes even fishing. Given the resources we have here, they do the best they can. (I loved this!)
A few folks mentioned my primary observation, that people here are stressed, rushed, and urgent all the time. It can be difficult to survive here if your nature is a bit more laid back, or in any way less aggressive. There are very few kind, gentle edges showing in the DC persona.
For all its population, it is a lonely harsh place.
That is one of my most missed things from the Sierras.
I think he was also the person who mentioned that he likes that people here actually do attempt outdoor activities, such as hiking, walking, and sometimes even fishing. Given the resources we have here, they do the best they can. (I loved this!)
A few folks mentioned my primary observation, that people here are stressed, rushed, and urgent all the time. It can be difficult to survive here if your nature is a bit more laid back, or in any way less aggressive. There are very few kind, gentle edges showing in the DC persona.
For all its population, it is a lonely harsh place.
Monday, November 19, 2007
November getting to know the DC area
For today's adventure in urban living, we drove less than an hour from Bethesda to Broadlands, Virginia. We ate Sunday Brunch at the Clydes there in Broadlands (Willow Creek Farm). That was a neat building and very interesting to look at. Virginia seems to be the home of large houses from what we could see. Food just so-so though.
We stopped at the Dulles part of the National Air and Space Museum on the way home. What a real delight that museum is! Great place to visit - huge space, lots of aircraft. Loved the satellites especially, they are almost like art pieces. We were dismayed to be charged $12.00 to park the car. We are used to no admission at the Smithsonian and other museums in the DC area, so we're spoiled I guess. (Although technically, the $12.00 is for parking, not admission.) That seems excessive though. imho.
We stopped at the Dulles part of the National Air and Space Museum on the way home. What a real delight that museum is! Great place to visit - huge space, lots of aircraft. Loved the satellites especially, they are almost like art pieces. We were dismayed to be charged $12.00 to park the car. We are used to no admission at the Smithsonian and other museums in the DC area, so we're spoiled I guess. (Although technically, the $12.00 is for parking, not admission.) That seems excessive though. imho.
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
Getting to know the DC area
In a real effort to become more comfortable living here, I've been making time to see fun and interesting places and things. One recent weekend afternoon, we went to the Phillips Collection here in the DuPont Circle area. They are currently having an excellent show, Impressionists at the Sea, which I really enjoyed. They also have one of my favorite paintings, Luncheon of the Boating Party. Walking distance from Metro - had dinner at Lauriol Place, Mexican food. Yumm.
Another afternoon, H & I went to see Arlington Cemetery. We need to go back and spend more time there, I underestimated the amount of time it would take. It is huge! I walked to see both Kennedy's grave sites, but didn't have enough time for the changing of the guard ceremonies. Will take the tram next time, although the walking gave me a neat perspective. On the Metro line, no car needed.
I also recently spent one afternoon at the National Portrait Gallery. Beautiful place and lots of fun.
(Near the International Spy Museum and Zola's restaurant.) Right on Metro also.
Next on my mental "to do" list is the Hopper exhibit at the National Gallery of Art.
Another afternoon, H & I went to see Arlington Cemetery. We need to go back and spend more time there, I underestimated the amount of time it would take. It is huge! I walked to see both Kennedy's grave sites, but didn't have enough time for the changing of the guard ceremonies. Will take the tram next time, although the walking gave me a neat perspective. On the Metro line, no car needed.
I also recently spent one afternoon at the National Portrait Gallery. Beautiful place and lots of fun.
(Near the International Spy Museum and Zola's restaurant.) Right on Metro also.
Next on my mental "to do" list is the Hopper exhibit at the National Gallery of Art.
Monday, October 29, 2007
Beautiful Fall Monday in Maryland
Mondays are tough!
This morning I had scheduled to have a fasting blood test done. It was very cold this morning, must have impacted my veins. The technician had a little trouble getting to a vein. (Had to use something I think called a "butterfly", which actually hurt.) Last time, the young guy with several tattoos drew the blood, he had no problem. He didn't hurt me at all, I barely knew he was doing anything. Some people just have a really nice touch. I wonder where my tattooed friend was today? Seems like a different technician every time. That would not be a job I would want, however, I'm thankful for them.
Weekend in WV was OK. Stressful though... so much negativity. Very tough situation, no answers for the anger and grief. But so hard to deal with. Jesus. Such bitterness, anger, rage so close the surface, its like walking into a mine field. want to help, but really cannot. Want to run. Want others to quit being so mean to each other, for Goodness sake.
Will have to call NYC about the stocks. another stressor.
This morning I had scheduled to have a fasting blood test done. It was very cold this morning, must have impacted my veins. The technician had a little trouble getting to a vein. (Had to use something I think called a "butterfly", which actually hurt.) Last time, the young guy with several tattoos drew the blood, he had no problem. He didn't hurt me at all, I barely knew he was doing anything. Some people just have a really nice touch. I wonder where my tattooed friend was today? Seems like a different technician every time. That would not be a job I would want, however, I'm thankful for them.
Weekend in WV was OK. Stressful though... so much negativity. Very tough situation, no answers for the anger and grief. But so hard to deal with. Jesus. Such bitterness, anger, rage so close the surface, its like walking into a mine field. want to help, but really cannot. Want to run. Want others to quit being so mean to each other, for Goodness sake.
Will have to call NYC about the stocks. another stressor.
Sunday, October 14, 2007
The Renwick
It was a beautiful day here in Washington, DC today. I spent part of the day at the Renwick and a few hours at the National Portrait Gallery. It was really nice. The Renwick has a lovely quilt exhibit of quilts moving west --- quite a few from Nebraska. Fine quilts.
The National Portrait Gallery is really large, much larger than I had imagined. It is conveniently near the Gallery-Chinatown metro stop and several good restaurants. Legals and Zola I saw for sure. (and Chipolte.)
The National Portrait Gallery is really large, much larger than I had imagined. It is conveniently near the Gallery-Chinatown metro stop and several good restaurants. Legals and Zola I saw for sure. (and Chipolte.)
Thursday, October 11, 2007
The Cloisters
I enjoyed a great Columbus Day holiday in NYC. On Saturday we visited the Statue of Liberty, and then Ellis Island. The Statue trip was delayed due to fog, but after waiting more than 2 hours, we were able to depart of the Lady at 10AM. That was fine, we were able to go inside the statue and ride an elevator up to the top of the pedestal. Nice view, fun to see the statue up close and personal. Lots of security measures in place, Ed had to throw out our two bananas we had saved from breakfast.
We were on our feet a lot, especially with the two hour wait. I was tired, by the time I got to Ellis Island, I was really pooped, but managed to hear the audio tour and walk around. I really liked the Ellis Island tour. Very informative and very very moving. We poked around a bit in the research center, but Grandma Gallo's name doesn't seem to be there. We're doing something wrong, but were too tired to figure out what.
We flew into Laguardia instead of taking the train. (Both to save time and $$) We stayed at the DoubleTree on Lexington Ave. It was fine. (too $$$ though)
On Sunday, our son went with us to The Cloisters....
which was a very long bus ride on the M4. Son left quickly so he could go to a football game.......but I enjoyed listening to the audiocast at the Cloisters. It is a neat place, medieval art, architecture, tapestries. Tranquil, fun, interesting. Bus back to Manhattan -- 1 1/2 hour.
Got to share breakfast on Monday with son before departure. That was great.
Monday, September 24, 2007
Family Funeral
My Aunt passed away last week at the age of 94. I was fortunate to get to attend her funeral in West Virginia on Friday. She was a lovely and wonderful person. After the funeral we gathered at the home of a neighbor, who was so kind as to allow many folks, mostly strangers, to come into her home. The neighbor provided food and drink for all as well as a lovely place to be together and reminisce about my aunt.
I was floored at the outpouring of love for this person. Of course, I knew she was wonderful, but I actually had no idea of the full life she was leading right up until the end. Even at 94, she had fiercely loyal friends who showed up from the far corners of the USA to attend her funeral. She was regarded by all as a giving, loving, warm human being. I guess I had forgotten her, I was off in California for the last 15 years, raising my kids, getting a degree, working....you know how life gets away from you. She was widowed young and raised her two children alone. Well, now I can hardly say alone! After the outpouring of affection I witnessed in WV, I think she gave so much to so many, she had legions of friends. She lacked somewhat in finances and housing, but didn't lack a thing in areas that mattered. Wish I could be more like her! It was inspiring to be there.
I was lucky enough to get to see my own grandparents grave sites in Mannington. I hadn't had that opportunity for a very long time. I think Dad would have been happy about that.
It was a beautiful drive home Sunday, a few leaves changing on Rt. 68 through WV and Maryland.
I was floored at the outpouring of love for this person. Of course, I knew she was wonderful, but I actually had no idea of the full life she was leading right up until the end. Even at 94, she had fiercely loyal friends who showed up from the far corners of the USA to attend her funeral. She was regarded by all as a giving, loving, warm human being. I guess I had forgotten her, I was off in California for the last 15 years, raising my kids, getting a degree, working....you know how life gets away from you. She was widowed young and raised her two children alone. Well, now I can hardly say alone! After the outpouring of affection I witnessed in WV, I think she gave so much to so many, she had legions of friends. She lacked somewhat in finances and housing, but didn't lack a thing in areas that mattered. Wish I could be more like her! It was inspiring to be there.
I was lucky enough to get to see my own grandparents grave sites in Mannington. I hadn't had that opportunity for a very long time. I think Dad would have been happy about that.
It was a beautiful drive home Sunday, a few leaves changing on Rt. 68 through WV and Maryland.
Monday, September 17, 2007
Fall in Maryland
Yesterday was the most beautiful day I've seen in a long time. H & I slept in, as we had gone to see 3:30 to Yuma [should be underlined!] on Saturday evening. Sunday was great, we just decided to go for a drive. We ended up in Charles Town, WV. We parked the car and walked to the race track. We stood outside, with a nice breeze blowing and watched a horse race. We don't know much about racing, but it was interesting anyway. We went into the casino and checked it out also.
We also visited Antietam Battlefield. Awesome historical site. We were just in time to view the filmstrip about it and then we drove the 8 1/2 mile loop around the battlefield. Today is the 145th anniversary of that awful bloody battle. Civil war re-inactors were everywhere, it really added to the day.
Then we drove to Washington Monument State Park in Maryland. That was fun too, we hiked to the monument and looked out at the long view.
We found a cute place, South Mountain Inn, for dinner - H had rockfish and I had Chicken picatta. Quite good.
Home pretty late, tired, Monday AM was tough.
We also visited Antietam Battlefield. Awesome historical site. We were just in time to view the filmstrip about it and then we drove the 8 1/2 mile loop around the battlefield. Today is the 145th anniversary of that awful bloody battle. Civil war re-inactors were everywhere, it really added to the day.
Then we drove to Washington Monument State Park in Maryland. That was fun too, we hiked to the monument and looked out at the long view.
We found a cute place, South Mountain Inn, for dinner - H had rockfish and I had Chicken picatta. Quite good.
Home pretty late, tired, Monday AM was tough.
Friday, July 20, 2007
Friday is the very Best Day of the Week!
Yes, I hereby nominate Friday for "Best Day of the Week" award. We should celebrate each and every Friday. No other day is that sweet day of anticipation. We know a glorious weekend is ahead of us. Saturday and Sunday can be whatever we want to make it. Two whole 24 hour days to sleep, play, eat, sun or any other kind of fun we can think of. Nothing beats Friday Evening for best evening also!
Monday, July 16, 2007
Monday mornings really suck
I haven't been feeling very well lately. I'm trying to figure out if I have real physical ailments, or I'm just depressed. This morning I woke up with a slight headache again, this has been on and off for at least a couple weeks. I'm exhausted and my tummy seems to hurt most of the time. Some mornings I have such swollen eyes. I think I need to go to bed earlier, but the days just seem so short. I usually watch the 11:00 news, but then if I go to bed at 11:30 and get up at 5:00am, I only have 5 hours of sleep. That isn't enough for me. Need to change lifestyle.
H & I spent Sunday looking for his diplomas. He graduated 20 years ago and 30 years ago, so its difficult to figure out where they might be. That is unresolved. I'm still thinking about where they may be. We went through everything, files, boxes, drawers....ugh. Its a mess.
Perhaps I'll go online and figure out how to get duplicates for him. But somewhere there is a whole file with high school diploma, three college diplomas and lots of personal papers. Guess it is driving me nuts.
H & I spent Sunday looking for his diplomas. He graduated 20 years ago and 30 years ago, so its difficult to figure out where they might be. That is unresolved. I'm still thinking about where they may be. We went through everything, files, boxes, drawers....ugh. Its a mess.
Perhaps I'll go online and figure out how to get duplicates for him. But somewhere there is a whole file with high school diploma, three college diplomas and lots of personal papers. Guess it is driving me nuts.
Tuesday, July 03, 2007
Happy 4th of July 2007
The DC weather these past few days has been awesome! It is very low humidity and mild sunny days. The sky is the clearest, crystal blue and the clouds are the nice fluffy kind, it is really great. Temperatures are in the 80's during the afternoons, with a little breeze. Couldn't order better weather today.
This year the 4th comes in the middle of the week. I'm grateful for the holiday anyway. I can remember the huge 4th of July parties we had at Maple Lake.....that last one we had about 80 people through my home that day. I wonder if my kids even remember those days? They were pretty young, ages 8 and 11 when we moved away from there.
Life in a condo isn't so lovely for me. I have a really nice condo, but I just do not love this. I miss having a house, I really miss being able to find things without having to move stacks of boxes....I miss my pretty kitchens I used to have...what is going on with me?
Maybe H & I are in two very different places in our lives right now. He clearly is thriving here. I'm beginning to thrive in my work, but I do not love condo living. Just doesn't feel right for me. I don't want to live there.
This year the 4th comes in the middle of the week. I'm grateful for the holiday anyway. I can remember the huge 4th of July parties we had at Maple Lake.....that last one we had about 80 people through my home that day. I wonder if my kids even remember those days? They were pretty young, ages 8 and 11 when we moved away from there.
Life in a condo isn't so lovely for me. I have a really nice condo, but I just do not love this. I miss having a house, I really miss being able to find things without having to move stacks of boxes....I miss my pretty kitchens I used to have...what is going on with me?
Maybe H & I are in two very different places in our lives right now. He clearly is thriving here. I'm beginning to thrive in my work, but I do not love condo living. Just doesn't feel right for me. I don't want to live there.
Thursday, June 28, 2007
Well Hello New York City !!!
What a fun summer! My youngest child has just moved from San Francisco to New York City! I'm actually thrilled that he will be closer to us. I'm also thrilled that he is 26 years old and living in a thriving vibrant city. Cool! The had a brief power outage last night, but OK now. I can see I'll learn a lot about NYC over the next couple of years.
He flew to DC to spend my 55th birthday with me. That was very great, I loved it. I've had a wonderful 55th. My daughter in Phoenix coerced H and me into Tiffany & Co. She steered H toward the lovely necklace that he ended up purchasing for me. It is a diamond palm tree, to commemorate the great vacation we just had in St. John. That is a lovely gift, one of the nicest I've had in years from H. I love it more because it pleases my daughter! I am so thankful to have spent so much time with the kids in the last couple of months. Its been so fun. They are leading fun, productive lives and have great friends and good health. I can't ask for more than that. I think I could retire in Phoenix, even though it is hot there. (It got hot in Sacramento also, but I liked it there so much.)
Summer has arrived in DC, its so humid you could just melt when you step outside. I walked some last weekend at Brookside Gardens. I like that place, good feel. There is a trail in the hills next to Brookside that is nice also. (Might have a touch of poison ivy, but not bad.)
Need to walk more, so will work on that. I'll be in WV for the weekend to see Mom et al.
Going to get the third pedicure of my whole life this afternoon! I love that! I've had one pedicure in St. John, one in Philadelphia and now one in......Rockville!! Woo Hoo! I may have finally learned how to live in the moment.
He flew to DC to spend my 55th birthday with me. That was very great, I loved it. I've had a wonderful 55th. My daughter in Phoenix coerced H and me into Tiffany & Co. She steered H toward the lovely necklace that he ended up purchasing for me. It is a diamond palm tree, to commemorate the great vacation we just had in St. John. That is a lovely gift, one of the nicest I've had in years from H. I love it more because it pleases my daughter! I am so thankful to have spent so much time with the kids in the last couple of months. Its been so fun. They are leading fun, productive lives and have great friends and good health. I can't ask for more than that. I think I could retire in Phoenix, even though it is hot there. (It got hot in Sacramento also, but I liked it there so much.)
Summer has arrived in DC, its so humid you could just melt when you step outside. I walked some last weekend at Brookside Gardens. I like that place, good feel. There is a trail in the hills next to Brookside that is nice also. (Might have a touch of poison ivy, but not bad.)
Need to walk more, so will work on that. I'll be in WV for the weekend to see Mom et al.
Going to get the third pedicure of my whole life this afternoon! I love that! I've had one pedicure in St. John, one in Philadelphia and now one in......Rockville!! Woo Hoo! I may have finally learned how to live in the moment.
Friday, June 08, 2007
Happy Mid Life Birthday to me
In about a week I'll be 55 years old. Woo-Hoo!
Summer is arriving in DC. Tomorrow is predicted to be in the 90's with heat and humidity, plus level orange air advisory. Welcome to DC summers!
Lucky me, I'm flying out to Phoenix tomorrow, where it's only in the 90-100 range!
On the plus side, I'll get to spend a little time with my daughter. Should be fun.
H is already there, he is attending classes in Phoenix this week and next. I'm upset these days because he is traveling so much in the name of work. In our most recent 6 months, he has been gone 14 of 26 weeks. That means I've been living alone for about 4 months of the last 6. I had asked him to cut back on travel, but it isn't happening. Wouldn't be too awful if he didn't incorporate plenty of playtime for himself into his travels. This time and last, he packed his swim trunks and his Hawaiian Tropic tanning oil. This guy is so insensitive to me it is pitiful.
Well, I guess he is telling me quite a lot with his behavior. He vehemently claims I'm all wrong. Huh, go figure.
I have a heavy heart. I know what I need to do. Worst of all, I've known for a very long time. What is stopping me?
Fear of surviving this? I know I can survive it. I've already lived through worse. Fear of loneliness? Well, 4 months alone of the last 6....I'm already surviving that. Money? Could be hard reality, but I think I can manage the money. Not easily, but it is possible. I think if I really understood this, I could sell a book and make a fortune! I know others struggle with this type of problem too.
Summer is arriving in DC. Tomorrow is predicted to be in the 90's with heat and humidity, plus level orange air advisory. Welcome to DC summers!
Lucky me, I'm flying out to Phoenix tomorrow, where it's only in the 90-100 range!
On the plus side, I'll get to spend a little time with my daughter. Should be fun.
H is already there, he is attending classes in Phoenix this week and next. I'm upset these days because he is traveling so much in the name of work. In our most recent 6 months, he has been gone 14 of 26 weeks. That means I've been living alone for about 4 months of the last 6. I had asked him to cut back on travel, but it isn't happening. Wouldn't be too awful if he didn't incorporate plenty of playtime for himself into his travels. This time and last, he packed his swim trunks and his Hawaiian Tropic tanning oil. This guy is so insensitive to me it is pitiful.
Well, I guess he is telling me quite a lot with his behavior. He vehemently claims I'm all wrong. Huh, go figure.
I have a heavy heart. I know what I need to do. Worst of all, I've known for a very long time. What is stopping me?
Fear of surviving this? I know I can survive it. I've already lived through worse. Fear of loneliness? Well, 4 months alone of the last 6....I'm already surviving that. Money? Could be hard reality, but I think I can manage the money. Not easily, but it is possible. I think if I really understood this, I could sell a book and make a fortune! I know others struggle with this type of problem too.
Wednesday, May 30, 2007
Post MLA 2007
I'm back from Philadelphia. MLA was really nice, but very busy this year. I am proud to be productive and happy that our meeting went so smoothly. A wonderful bonus for me was that my son was there as part of his new job duties. He is going to love his new job, so I am very pleased for him. My parts were very stressful, but I tried to decompress when time allowed.
Mom continues to have a difficult time. My sis is really losing her grip. It is now impossible to have coherent conversations with her, she rejects abruptly any efforts to point out possible help avenues. I am unable to reach her, although I haven't entirely given up. Its really stressful for all concerned. She pushes me away and pushes me out of the care giving circle. I want(ed) to do much more, but she doesn't allow my participation. I don't know what the heck is wrong with her. She has very firmly rejected any offers of help now for about two years and is severely depressed. At this point I have many many concerns for Mom, but also for my sis's adult children and H who has his own tough problems to deal with. I have to compartmentalize those things I cannot change. In this case, I can't even impact anything about this. Even my opinions about how to help are shunned. Its awful. I can't dwell on it. H did manage to arrange for a contractor to come and install new drainage around the house. Hopefully this will help the "water in the basement" problem.
H continues to travel way too much. I've very burned out on his travel. He is stoic as usual. "Stone Wall" syndrome. He is obviously enjoying his time on the road, took his Hawaiian Tropic tanning oil and his swimsuit this time. By all accounts, having a great time. Certainly not missing me or concerned that he is leaving me alone all the time. OK, there. That's enough wallowing for today.
It is beautiful here today, about 78 degrees, sunny and calm. I love this kind of day. I think I'll forgo the "credit hours" and leave as early as I can. Hopefully, very soon! I am thankful that today I am walking without pain. Our pool is now open at the condo, so perhaps I'll try to get down there for a little while.
I've lost a colleague at work due to his leaving us for a better job. I'm sad at his leaving, but happy for him. It will be a good opportunity.
Got the Maine Coon cat groomed yesterday, he looks cooler. He has quite a hairy problem. He weighs 25 lbs now.
Mom continues to have a difficult time. My sis is really losing her grip. It is now impossible to have coherent conversations with her, she rejects abruptly any efforts to point out possible help avenues. I am unable to reach her, although I haven't entirely given up. Its really stressful for all concerned. She pushes me away and pushes me out of the care giving circle. I want(ed) to do much more, but she doesn't allow my participation. I don't know what the heck is wrong with her. She has very firmly rejected any offers of help now for about two years and is severely depressed. At this point I have many many concerns for Mom, but also for my sis's adult children and H who has his own tough problems to deal with. I have to compartmentalize those things I cannot change. In this case, I can't even impact anything about this. Even my opinions about how to help are shunned. Its awful. I can't dwell on it. H did manage to arrange for a contractor to come and install new drainage around the house. Hopefully this will help the "water in the basement" problem.
H continues to travel way too much. I've very burned out on his travel. He is stoic as usual. "Stone Wall" syndrome. He is obviously enjoying his time on the road, took his Hawaiian Tropic tanning oil and his swimsuit this time. By all accounts, having a great time. Certainly not missing me or concerned that he is leaving me alone all the time. OK, there. That's enough wallowing for today.
It is beautiful here today, about 78 degrees, sunny and calm. I love this kind of day. I think I'll forgo the "credit hours" and leave as early as I can. Hopefully, very soon! I am thankful that today I am walking without pain. Our pool is now open at the condo, so perhaps I'll try to get down there for a little while.
I've lost a colleague at work due to his leaving us for a better job. I'm sad at his leaving, but happy for him. It will be a good opportunity.
Got the Maine Coon cat groomed yesterday, he looks cooler. He has quite a hairy problem. He weighs 25 lbs now.
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
Ides of March are nearly upon us
Greetings!
It is truly lovely weather now in Bethesda. Its already 52 degrees and its only 10AM. I am thankful this morning for this wonderful break in the cold. I was really tired of cold and icy.
H is traveling this week in the mid-west. I'm bereft without him. It is lonely for me. I don't feel well this morning, seem to be sick at my stomach. That is kind of unusual for me. I went ahead and came in to work, thinking after the shower and breakfast, the queasiness would pass. It hasn't, so I've taken an Alka-Seltzer Plus....hopefully that will help. I nearly always feel upset when he travels, and I'd better get over it. He travels a lot and will continue to. I don't sleep well when he is gone, but usually that passes after the first night alone. Thirty-five years is a long time to sleep with someone.
It is not a difficult day at work, thankfully. Yesterday I had lunch with a co-worker from another department. That was pleasant and I really appreciate how important friends are.
I'm nearly finished with getting the stocks moved into Mom's name. Just waiting on one more receipt. I have one more small check to write to have Dad's will recorded in the adjoining county where he has mineral rights to take care of. I actually cried when I looked at his will, silly of course. This is so hard. And yes, I know, everyone does it. Nothing even unique about my situation.
On a much brighter note, we're looking forward to Easter Holiday with the kids this year. St. John is the island location selected, and we're all getting ready.
Well, enough from me today, back to work.
Peace
Beatrice
It is truly lovely weather now in Bethesda. Its already 52 degrees and its only 10AM. I am thankful this morning for this wonderful break in the cold. I was really tired of cold and icy.
H is traveling this week in the mid-west. I'm bereft without him. It is lonely for me. I don't feel well this morning, seem to be sick at my stomach. That is kind of unusual for me. I went ahead and came in to work, thinking after the shower and breakfast, the queasiness would pass. It hasn't, so I've taken an Alka-Seltzer Plus....hopefully that will help. I nearly always feel upset when he travels, and I'd better get over it. He travels a lot and will continue to. I don't sleep well when he is gone, but usually that passes after the first night alone. Thirty-five years is a long time to sleep with someone.
It is not a difficult day at work, thankfully. Yesterday I had lunch with a co-worker from another department. That was pleasant and I really appreciate how important friends are.
I'm nearly finished with getting the stocks moved into Mom's name. Just waiting on one more receipt. I have one more small check to write to have Dad's will recorded in the adjoining county where he has mineral rights to take care of. I actually cried when I looked at his will, silly of course. This is so hard. And yes, I know, everyone does it. Nothing even unique about my situation.
On a much brighter note, we're looking forward to Easter Holiday with the kids this year. St. John is the island location selected, and we're all getting ready.
Well, enough from me today, back to work.
Peace
Beatrice
Thursday, February 15, 2007
Valentines Snow Day in Bethesda
Winter has arrived with a vengeance for us here in the nation's capitol. Valentines Day was a two hour delay for Federal Employees, with unscheduled leave allowed. H went to work, but I opted for the 8 hours of leave today. I still ended up checking in via email and answering a few items. Guess I should arrange to work from home in these emergency cases. I'm not sure I want "flex-i-place" as I don't want work and home becoming synonymous. It is really difficult enough to balance a home life and a work life. However, I know it would be nice on days such as this one.
Care giving for my elderly Mom still continues. She seems unhappy, but not specific. I can't see what I could do from here to help her. I sent her a funny valentine, which she seemed to appreciate. (With photos of the grandkids.) I'll be there in a week for 4 days and we'll look at her financial picture and see what we can do to help with that. We'll look at her leaking basement and see what we might be able to do with that as well. They now have a steady stream through their basement. Without my Dad, the home they lived in all these years is going to pot. Yet, without actually living there (and having a large pot full of money) we can only do so much to maintain the house. My sister & her H have moved in, but with her H's health problems, she is quite limited also. It is a very difficult situation. I can see that aging parents are difficult for most people I know. My sis and my niece are managing to get Mom to the Dr. and back home for her weekly coumadin check...and to the hairdresser for her weekly visit. They are doing OK I believe. But, at the same time, I realize it is a very troubled existence. Wish I could do more.
We've been watching the NBC evening news, with the Care Givers reports about Brian William's father and Tim Russert's father, and now Dr. Nancy Snyderman's parents. Its pretty good, but I would love a more indepth show.
Well, I need to go for now.
B
Care giving for my elderly Mom still continues. She seems unhappy, but not specific. I can't see what I could do from here to help her. I sent her a funny valentine, which she seemed to appreciate. (With photos of the grandkids.) I'll be there in a week for 4 days and we'll look at her financial picture and see what we can do to help with that. We'll look at her leaking basement and see what we might be able to do with that as well. They now have a steady stream through their basement. Without my Dad, the home they lived in all these years is going to pot. Yet, without actually living there (and having a large pot full of money) we can only do so much to maintain the house. My sister & her H have moved in, but with her H's health problems, she is quite limited also. It is a very difficult situation. I can see that aging parents are difficult for most people I know. My sis and my niece are managing to get Mom to the Dr. and back home for her weekly coumadin check...and to the hairdresser for her weekly visit. They are doing OK I believe. But, at the same time, I realize it is a very troubled existence. Wish I could do more.
We've been watching the NBC evening news, with the Care Givers reports about Brian William's father and Tim Russert's father, and now Dr. Nancy Snyderman's parents. Its pretty good, but I would love a more indepth show.
Well, I need to go for now.
B
Saturday, February 10, 2007
February 2007
Hi,
Well, this has been a time of increasingly colder weather and a time of accepting growing older I guess. I had my yearly physical this week. Same old song, gheeze, you must lose weight. My ophthalmologist wants me back in 6 months for more exams. getting old really sucks, but it beats the alternative.
Work is going OK. (Can't believe I said that!) We're into budget reviews, it can be difficult, but the boss is good. I am OK.
Happy Valentine's Day,
Love,
B
Well, this has been a time of increasingly colder weather and a time of accepting growing older I guess. I had my yearly physical this week. Same old song, gheeze, you must lose weight. My ophthalmologist wants me back in 6 months for more exams. getting old really sucks, but it beats the alternative.
Work is going OK. (Can't believe I said that!) We're into budget reviews, it can be difficult, but the boss is good. I am OK.
Happy Valentine's Day,
Love,
B
Friday, January 19, 2007
Celebrate the New Year 2007 - January
Interesting mix of weather. First we had very warm weather, but now we're getting the cooler weather and quite a bit of wind.
I've been to Raleigh and viewed the Monet paintings at the North Carolina Museum of Art. Truly a wonderful exhibit, like a breath of sweet fresh air. I had a great time, although my friend from Greensboro could not meet me. I was alone for the holiday, but it was a wonderful holiday. Breaks like this are good!
Mom continues to linger. I am worried about her. She is writing an unusual number of checks, and for large amounts of money to all of us. I think I'm going to have to say something about it to her....I'm not sure what she is thinking....don't people begin to give away everything when they think they are about to die. My sis screams at her -- really at all of us-- at the drop of a hat. What a negative environment for them all. Toxic care giving......not good at all. However, extremely delicate to handle...I can't even open my mouth in front of sis. She needs help now, but not from me, that's for sure. She actually scares me now. What is up with that?
My H installed a new toilet for them last weekend, although it is too hard for him, he shouldn't be doing that kind of work anymore. He did a good job though and I feel proud of him. It was an effort for him. He is a good guy.
I'm considering alternate ways to care for Mom. I'm afraid to brainstorm with Patsy, but I really would like to.
I've been to Raleigh and viewed the Monet paintings at the North Carolina Museum of Art. Truly a wonderful exhibit, like a breath of sweet fresh air. I had a great time, although my friend from Greensboro could not meet me. I was alone for the holiday, but it was a wonderful holiday. Breaks like this are good!
Mom continues to linger. I am worried about her. She is writing an unusual number of checks, and for large amounts of money to all of us. I think I'm going to have to say something about it to her....I'm not sure what she is thinking....don't people begin to give away everything when they think they are about to die. My sis screams at her -- really at all of us-- at the drop of a hat. What a negative environment for them all. Toxic care giving......not good at all. However, extremely delicate to handle...I can't even open my mouth in front of sis. She needs help now, but not from me, that's for sure. She actually scares me now. What is up with that?
My H installed a new toilet for them last weekend, although it is too hard for him, he shouldn't be doing that kind of work anymore. He did a good job though and I feel proud of him. It was an effort for him. He is a good guy.
I'm considering alternate ways to care for Mom. I'm afraid to brainstorm with Patsy, but I really would like to.
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