Wow! No, I am not dead nor maimed. Things have been hectic. Computer problems. Travel. Family. All these things are eating my time like crazy. I will try to get back soon.
j
Sunday, June 28, 2015
Wednesday, May 27, 2015
Checking in
Still here with the limited internet capability. Hence - no pictures for all this time.
We are west of the Austin/Blanco/Wimberly areas. We have had strong storms, but we are on such a high hill that if we even get close to flooding at the house, we all had best look for the ark. Now we may not be able to leave the area if it were to get really bad because we have so many low water crossings between us and civilization.
My stress level is about 200%. The storms have been strong, often with vicious lightening bolts. I worry about losing power. We are all electric here. I worry about Clyde having to go out when it is pouring. Or being taken out and NOT doing his business when we know he needs to - but he is a delicate little 75 pound thing that doesn't want to get his paws wet!
Monday Jersey Village/Houston got hammered. JV has a history of flooding, and while we have yet to flood (knock on wood), I still worry. It came up to the house on the street behind us the last time it flooded. Our rental house has flooded, and I worried about our tenants. I am not sure they still have our phone number here. Krissi was telling me her car almost flooded being in front of her house - and it drains rapidly there, but not that night.
To top it all off, Katie and her dad were flying in to Houston as the storm was settled in there. They had to end up landing in Austin, and after a couple of hours on the plane they were allowed off. They ended up staying in a hotel for the remainder of the night. Relief because Krissi was to have go to pick them up at the airport. She couldn't get out from the reports I was getting via internet here. I have just about used all my data on my phone!
Hopefully we will be going home tomorrow, but I am worried about that. Right now Austin is getting hit with a severe storm - again. The community (Cypress) just to our north at home got hammered with bad flooding this morning between 6 and 10.
I WANT TO BE IN MY REAL HOUSE!
We are west of the Austin/Blanco/Wimberly areas. We have had strong storms, but we are on such a high hill that if we even get close to flooding at the house, we all had best look for the ark. Now we may not be able to leave the area if it were to get really bad because we have so many low water crossings between us and civilization.
My stress level is about 200%. The storms have been strong, often with vicious lightening bolts. I worry about losing power. We are all electric here. I worry about Clyde having to go out when it is pouring. Or being taken out and NOT doing his business when we know he needs to - but he is a delicate little 75 pound thing that doesn't want to get his paws wet!
Monday Jersey Village/Houston got hammered. JV has a history of flooding, and while we have yet to flood (knock on wood), I still worry. It came up to the house on the street behind us the last time it flooded. Our rental house has flooded, and I worried about our tenants. I am not sure they still have our phone number here. Krissi was telling me her car almost flooded being in front of her house - and it drains rapidly there, but not that night.
To top it all off, Katie and her dad were flying in to Houston as the storm was settled in there. They had to end up landing in Austin, and after a couple of hours on the plane they were allowed off. They ended up staying in a hotel for the remainder of the night. Relief because Krissi was to have go to pick them up at the airport. She couldn't get out from the reports I was getting via internet here. I have just about used all my data on my phone!
Hopefully we will be going home tomorrow, but I am worried about that. Right now Austin is getting hit with a severe storm - again. The community (Cypress) just to our north at home got hammered with bad flooding this morning between 6 and 10.
I WANT TO BE IN MY REAL HOUSE!
Wednesday, May 13, 2015
San Francisco/Bay Area travelog part 2
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| Beginning to climb just out of Denver You can see the front of the train going up hill. |
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| Being a South Texas girl, I am still fascinated by snow!! |
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| Higher and higher into the Rockies |
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| The beautiful canyons of the Colorado River |
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| Donner Pass |
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| From above Berkeley |
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| Our chariot around SF - especially to the Golden Gate and Saucelito area |
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| Didn't go in - but the Palace of Fine Arts built on the site of a World's Fair. These columns were part of one of the exhibits I believe and were re-purposed here. |
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| As if you don't know!!! |
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| and again! Katie told me she bicycled this when they were there, and it was a little scary! |
And so brings part two to an end. Somehow a really neat picture got deleted from this group and I will put it in with the next ones. Either Blogger, my computer or my album didn't want to add anymore for today. So there will be a part three.
Monday, May 11, 2015
San Francisco travelog - part 1
We left Houston and flew to Denver. Seems like a strange way to California, right? Well it is, but the TRAIN we wanted to take - the California Zephyr - goes from Chicago to Emeryville - which is just south of Berkeley. We were going to stay in Berkeley.
The flight was ok, but, as usual TSA was a bit of a pain. The airlines clearly states that any medical equipment, prescribed by a physician, does not count against your carry on. The first TSA agent told me I couldn't have my purse, small carry on bag AND my CPAP. I tried to tell her what it was, but she was getting upset with me. G, who like me doesn't want to admit he is hearing deficient, was talking in my other ear. So I gave up on my point and just "handed" him the CPAP. There are things I always carry on: meds, a change of underwear, toiletries, and perhaps a computer.That was all in a small carry on.
Anyway I made it through the body scanner with it going off because of my titanium knees and also the beads (????) on my blouse. But no pat down. Never had one in Houston! Ate l unch at the airport - good salad! Waited on the plane.
Now flying with old seasoned traveler, I ask if he wanted to play the handicapped card to pre-board. I have a placard. We used it when Katie, Krissi, and I went to Riverside, California for water polo. He said that since we were first class, he didn't see the need. (since we fly less than once a year - we splurge!) Well - the people began lining up in boarding group one. There must have been 50 people. Guess who was at the very END of the line! t's pre- boarding for me from now on!
Got to Denver and slept poorly. Time change (ahead an hour) and no clocks in the room had the correct time. Our train was an early one the next morning. But all was well. Made the train in plenty of time - $22 poorer for the cab.
So I am going to jump two days ahead here to show you what was awaiting us in Berkeley:
We really stayed in a spa like setting. It was great. When we went to SF we took BART. But I am getting ahead of myself. See you later with part 2! So be forewarned.`
The flight was ok, but, as usual TSA was a bit of a pain. The airlines clearly states that any medical equipment, prescribed by a physician, does not count against your carry on. The first TSA agent told me I couldn't have my purse, small carry on bag AND my CPAP. I tried to tell her what it was, but she was getting upset with me. G, who like me doesn't want to admit he is hearing deficient, was talking in my other ear. So I gave up on my point and just "handed" him the CPAP. There are things I always carry on: meds, a change of underwear, toiletries, and perhaps a computer.That was all in a small carry on.
Anyway I made it through the body scanner with it going off because of my titanium knees and also the beads (????) on my blouse. But no pat down. Never had one in Houston! Ate l unch at the airport - good salad! Waited on the plane.
Now flying with old seasoned traveler, I ask if he wanted to play the handicapped card to pre-board. I have a placard. We used it when Katie, Krissi, and I went to Riverside, California for water polo. He said that since we were first class, he didn't see the need. (since we fly less than once a year - we splurge!) Well - the people began lining up in boarding group one. There must have been 50 people. Guess who was at the very END of the line! t's pre- boarding for me from now on!
Got to Denver and slept poorly. Time change (ahead an hour) and no clocks in the room had the correct time. Our train was an early one the next morning. But all was well. Made the train in plenty of time - $22 poorer for the cab.
So I am going to jump two days ahead here to show you what was awaiting us in Berkeley:
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| The living room of the Berkeley bungalow we rented for the week. |
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| Also the living rook |
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| Kitchen |
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| Kitchen |
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| Dining arrea |
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| Sitting area in dining |
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| View from dining/den |
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| Bedroom 1 |
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| Bedroom 1 |
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| View from bedroom one |
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| also view from bedroom one |
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| Hollywood style bath - toilet tucked away at left. Pocket doors were a pain however |
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| utility room off bath |
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| second bedroon |
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| second bedroom |
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| second bedroom - the house was set up in a circle - the living room is to the left |
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| garden around the front porch |
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| the landing for the second floor where one of the owners lives and the garden again! |
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| roses as big as salad plates |
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| climbing miniature roses acoss the front gate and fence |
We really stayed in a spa like setting. It was great. When we went to SF we took BART. But I am getting ahead of myself. See you later with part 2! So be forewarned.`
Sunday, May 10, 2015
Mystery
That's my internet connection. For the last four days, it has only worked properly if the moon and stars were perfectly aligned, I held my mouth just right, and mostly in the afternoons - sometimes.
I know there are those who could ascertain the problem in a couple of seconds and fix it, but not me. I have been refraining from calling ATT because I know the first step, and the one I considered myself, was to unplug the danged thing.
I have spent the time that I couldn't be on the internet trying to reload the million of so embroidery designs to this computer. I worked on some on the train (even when I was on the one without wi-fi. All I needed was the external hard drive and I was using my baby laptop (it is about 5 includes wide). The external hard drive was seeming to be really wonky so I wanted to get them onto this one where I have paid for a Cloud account. So after a couple of days, my valued designs are safe living in the cloud.
I still haven't downloaded the pictures. I really have to do that while this feeble brain recalls what things are! I also want to have them made into a book again. I think this time, rather than Snapfish, I will use Costco. Snapfish did a beautiful job, but I want to see what Costco can do.
I did the book on Alaska. By the time I was finished I probably spent $100 and it took me hours. It is a big, bulky scrapbook. The one of the trip to Seattle and Glacier was from Snapfish and it is really nice (and neat!!).
My children have finally decided what we are doing tonight for Mother's Day. There is some animosity growing there between daughter and DIL. I know one reason it that Katie didn't get her birthday present from DIL until G's birthday April 23. Her birthday is January 16. And DIL has never liked SIL. Of course SIL doesn't like DIL either. FAMILIES!! Just glad I get to see my son tonight.
Happy Mother's Day to you all.
I know there are those who could ascertain the problem in a couple of seconds and fix it, but not me. I have been refraining from calling ATT because I know the first step, and the one I considered myself, was to unplug the danged thing.
I have spent the time that I couldn't be on the internet trying to reload the million of so embroidery designs to this computer. I worked on some on the train (even when I was on the one without wi-fi. All I needed was the external hard drive and I was using my baby laptop (it is about 5 includes wide). The external hard drive was seeming to be really wonky so I wanted to get them onto this one where I have paid for a Cloud account. So after a couple of days, my valued designs are safe living in the cloud.
I still haven't downloaded the pictures. I really have to do that while this feeble brain recalls what things are! I also want to have them made into a book again. I think this time, rather than Snapfish, I will use Costco. Snapfish did a beautiful job, but I want to see what Costco can do.
I did the book on Alaska. By the time I was finished I probably spent $100 and it took me hours. It is a big, bulky scrapbook. The one of the trip to Seattle and Glacier was from Snapfish and it is really nice (and neat!!).
My children have finally decided what we are doing tonight for Mother's Day. There is some animosity growing there between daughter and DIL. I know one reason it that Katie didn't get her birthday present from DIL until G's birthday April 23. Her birthday is January 16. And DIL has never liked SIL. Of course SIL doesn't like DIL either. FAMILIES!! Just glad I get to see my son tonight.
Happy Mother's Day to you all.
Tuesday, May 05, 2015
Home again, home again and all that jazz
And back to Physical Therapy, mammograms, eye appointments and other various doctor appointments!
We had a great time, and I do have pictures to share - when I have time to download them to cull. The sights on the train were absolutely fantastic. The Rockies and Sierras were breath taking.
We spent two days in San Francisco utilizing a "hop on, hob off" tour bus. Saw the Golden Gate on both days, Saucelito twice and the beautiful Muir Woods. We found a park above Berkeley (where we stayed in a fantastic bungalow) that had breath taking views. Drove Highway 1 (the coastal highway), and went to a National Park - the Pinnacles that was so inspiring.
Of course there were downsides to it all. Looking for elevators in the BART stations. I have just enough vertigo that I am afraid of escalators - so it was stairs much of the time. I know I really irritated those commuters who were in a big hurry.
he
The last leg of the train trip back to Denver wasn't great (still pretty good though). I AM an advocate for good treatment of the handicapped. I am pretty close to being one. But an intellectual handicapped woman got on the train in Salt Lake City - which was in the middle of the night. She probably has a minimal physical handicap - clearly no worse than mine. I will talk about her later.
This is it for today. Had the mammogram this morning, and this afternoon is my eye injection. So if the computers and modem decide to be nice and cooperate unlike yesterday afternoon, I will be back at some point tomorrow.
We had a great time, and I do have pictures to share - when I have time to download them to cull. The sights on the train were absolutely fantastic. The Rockies and Sierras were breath taking.
We spent two days in San Francisco utilizing a "hop on, hob off" tour bus. Saw the Golden Gate on both days, Saucelito twice and the beautiful Muir Woods. We found a park above Berkeley (where we stayed in a fantastic bungalow) that had breath taking views. Drove Highway 1 (the coastal highway), and went to a National Park - the Pinnacles that was so inspiring.
Of course there were downsides to it all. Looking for elevators in the BART stations. I have just enough vertigo that I am afraid of escalators - so it was stairs much of the time. I know I really irritated those commuters who were in a big hurry.
he
The last leg of the train trip back to Denver wasn't great (still pretty good though). I AM an advocate for good treatment of the handicapped. I am pretty close to being one. But an intellectual handicapped woman got on the train in Salt Lake City - which was in the middle of the night. She probably has a minimal physical handicap - clearly no worse than mine. I will talk about her later.
This is it for today. Had the mammogram this morning, and this afternoon is my eye injection. So if the computers and modem decide to be nice and cooperate unlike yesterday afternoon, I will be back at some point tomorrow.
Tuesday, April 21, 2015
Late
I am alive. Getting ready for the trip to Francisco tomorrow. ATT internet service stinks. Thought the satellite was bad - NO. Haven't been able to use most of the internet (this include) for a week. Don't have time for repair either!
Try communicate while gone if possible.
Try communicate while gone if possible.
Monday, April 06, 2015
Horrible disease
I just learned from Facebook one of my friends - not really close, a fellow member of the little failing church.
She and her fiance joined about three years ago. They came pretty regularly. A darling early middle aged couple I believe. I am not sure with ages. Then at the beginning of the year three years ago, they got married. It was a beautiful service, but it was after they had married at a Justice of the Peace.
The wedding was for family and very close friends, but they posted pictures for all of the rest of us to see. There were two weddings because, you see, she had been diagnosed with ALS.
It all began with her right leg being very week and not working the way it should have. Their future wasn't as sure as it had been. So there was the first wedding. They were making sure they would be married.
Her goal for the wedding was to not use her cane. She did it! She walked down the aisle in her beautiful gown - without the cane.
In the ensuing year, they traveled as much as they could. Alaska was one of the trips they took. They were so much in love. They radiated love.
As time has gone on, she was not able to attend church. The last time I saw her, she was in a wheelchair - a motorized wheelchair to enable her any mobility. But they were still so obviously in love. It radiated from them,
Her strength kept diminishing. She was totally homebound in the chair, and no ability to move much of anything.
Yesterday morning, she died in her sleep. This terrible disease has taken another beautiful, loving, productive person. This is the second I have known pretty well. One a distant relative and now this one. I know there are several diseases that appear to have no cure. We have lost ones we love to pancreatic cancer. These diseases seem to not have a cure. They progress rapidly and always end the same.
So Jamie - you are finally released from a body that no longer does what it was supposed to do. You leave so many behind who loved you.
She and her fiance joined about three years ago. They came pretty regularly. A darling early middle aged couple I believe. I am not sure with ages. Then at the beginning of the year three years ago, they got married. It was a beautiful service, but it was after they had married at a Justice of the Peace.
The wedding was for family and very close friends, but they posted pictures for all of the rest of us to see. There were two weddings because, you see, she had been diagnosed with ALS.
It all began with her right leg being very week and not working the way it should have. Their future wasn't as sure as it had been. So there was the first wedding. They were making sure they would be married.
Her goal for the wedding was to not use her cane. She did it! She walked down the aisle in her beautiful gown - without the cane.
In the ensuing year, they traveled as much as they could. Alaska was one of the trips they took. They were so much in love. They radiated love.
As time has gone on, she was not able to attend church. The last time I saw her, she was in a wheelchair - a motorized wheelchair to enable her any mobility. But they were still so obviously in love. It radiated from them,
Her strength kept diminishing. She was totally homebound in the chair, and no ability to move much of anything.
Yesterday morning, she died in her sleep. This terrible disease has taken another beautiful, loving, productive person. This is the second I have known pretty well. One a distant relative and now this one. I know there are several diseases that appear to have no cure. We have lost ones we love to pancreatic cancer. These diseases seem to not have a cure. They progress rapidly and always end the same.
So Jamie - you are finally released from a body that no longer does what it was supposed to do. You leave so many behind who loved you.
Busy Easter
Usually, we don't go to church on Easter Sunday. We did when we were going to the other church because there would be perhaps 75 people there, but in our "new/old" church folks come out of the woodwork. I used to laugh that I was glad to be organist - at least I had a seat. It's true that the C(Christmas) and E (Easter) members show up for these services.
It was crowded, but there were plenty of seats for all. That was good.
There were lots of activities going on. The high school youth had their traditional pancake breakfast for a fund raiser. They will be heading to Detroit later for a national youth gathering later. There was an interactive ativity for the littles in the school part. Lots going on.
Never heard from son. Not a call. Not a text - nothing. Rather disappointing.
Getting things together for the SSB. That means to PT for over a week, but the therapist is really happy with the way things are going. But I am ready for it to be over. I am tired of giving up an hour and a half in the middle of the day.
Hope your Holy days were great.
It was crowded, but there were plenty of seats for all. That was good.
There were lots of activities going on. The high school youth had their traditional pancake breakfast for a fund raiser. They will be heading to Detroit later for a national youth gathering later. There was an interactive ativity for the littles in the school part. Lots going on.
Never heard from son. Not a call. Not a text - nothing. Rather disappointing.
Getting things together for the SSB. That means to PT for over a week, but the therapist is really happy with the way things are going. But I am ready for it to be over. I am tired of giving up an hour and a half in the middle of the day.
Hope your Holy days were great.
Friday, April 03, 2015
Here we go again
Literally. Thursday we will be going to the SSB. It seems we just got back. Geesh. Of course, the end of the month is the trip to San Francisco - that I am really beginning to worry about.
PT is doing me such good. I am feeling better than I have felt in a long time. The back still will scream some while walking, but it is so much better. But everyone who has been to SF tells me that it seems like everything is uphill - both ways!! I know there is a lot of walking involved in this trip. The place G booked for us to stay is (as he puts it) ONLY (that's me) five blocks from the transit station. FIVE BLOCKS??? Right now, I don't even walk the ONE block around our house.
Not looking forward to the SSB. I am still sniffling. It seems something new is blooming, and I am sneezing and nose running. This is an important trip I guess. Our hunter, Andy, will be there and PERHAPS we can get the riding lawn mower fixed to that G doesn't have to use the push mower mowing the acre about the house. If nothing else, Andy has a rider there too and said he will show G how to use it.
So I guess I better "suck it up" and try to enjoy going. From all reports the wildflowers are jaw dropping beautiful - especially the bluebonnets. Have to look at the bright side.
Have a great Easter if that's your thing. Or just enjoy what I hope is a beautiful weekend.
PT is doing me such good. I am feeling better than I have felt in a long time. The back still will scream some while walking, but it is so much better. But everyone who has been to SF tells me that it seems like everything is uphill - both ways!! I know there is a lot of walking involved in this trip. The place G booked for us to stay is (as he puts it) ONLY (that's me) five blocks from the transit station. FIVE BLOCKS??? Right now, I don't even walk the ONE block around our house.
Not looking forward to the SSB. I am still sniffling. It seems something new is blooming, and I am sneezing and nose running. This is an important trip I guess. Our hunter, Andy, will be there and PERHAPS we can get the riding lawn mower fixed to that G doesn't have to use the push mower mowing the acre about the house. If nothing else, Andy has a rider there too and said he will show G how to use it.
So I guess I better "suck it up" and try to enjoy going. From all reports the wildflowers are jaw dropping beautiful - especially the bluebonnets. Have to look at the bright side.
Have a great Easter if that's your thing. Or just enjoy what I hope is a beautiful weekend.
Thursday, April 02, 2015
A quick funny little post
Before I head out for today's appointment. This week has been full once again.
Monday when I was paying after Physical Therapy, I was going to put my cross-body purse on. It is heavy because I guess I don't have the philosophy for the cross bodies - I carry all my junk in it.
As I was pulling it over my head, I got snagged on my wig, and horror of horrors - that wig came off. I don't know how many therapistspatients saw but fortunately the office women didn't see a thing.
I was horrified! At least for a couple of minutes until I got it back on.
That was definitely a first. I shouldn't be to vain about the wigs. I try to be sure that I always wear the same one to the same outings so there isn't a marked change!
Monday when I was paying after Physical Therapy, I was going to put my cross-body purse on. It is heavy because I guess I don't have the philosophy for the cross bodies - I carry all my junk in it.
As I was pulling it over my head, I got snagged on my wig, and horror of horrors - that wig came off. I don't know how many therapistspatients saw but fortunately the office women didn't see a thing.
I was horrified! At least for a couple of minutes until I got it back on.
That was definitely a first. I shouldn't be to vain about the wigs. I try to be sure that I always wear the same one to the same outings so there isn't a marked change!
Tuesday, March 31, 2015
For those who came back - milder day
While I am still bothered by things, I vented and let it go. There is nothing I can do about it except look at what I do and work on me.
Doctor appointments/PT keep filling my day. When I got back from the SSB I had a message from the cardio office. They had made the appointment for the carotid doppler for me on Wednesday. Surprise - I have two other appointments! I got that one cancelled, but rescheduling is going to be difficult I know. But I will give it a go.
I have found that I can walk better. Yesterday for PT I had to park in the parking garage. That entailed a lot of walking. And I could do it without breaking into a sweat because of the pain. In fact, I didn't have pain. So the PT is definitely working on my back, but not my shoulders. Each time we work on them, I am in pain the next day.
I am a little upset with DIL - not enough to make an issue, but at the same time a bit put out. They will be gone at Easter - again. She has been good about rotating major holidays - except Easter. Last year the excuse was that her grandmother had just passed, and they were going to the beach to be with her mom and get her mind off the death. They are going again this year.
A few years my SIL suggested we rent a house at the beach next to or close to a house they would rent. That way the families would have some extended time to be together and the second cousins play and get to know one another better. DIL said she didn't like the beach. Her actions have shown she apparently doesn't like the beach with OUR family. She goes with her mom and also with her dad (they are divorced). Oh well. I just miss seeing my son.
Allergy season is alive and very well here in the Houston area. Everything is blooming, and I am miserable. G kept trying to tell me I had a cold (and gave it to him). I stopped using the Flonase that I got from the pulmonary doc because it makes the glaucoma worse. That has lasted one day. I am miserable. But I see the ophthalmologist on Wednesday. That will be a primary question for her. If not Flonase - what would she suggest. Bet it won't be anything!!!
So today is eyeball puncture day. Got a late appointment, and I am really worried about parking. But G is dropping me off then going to a plant nursery for parts for the riding mower at the SSB (??? - doesn't seem to go together). So I don't have to park. He will afterwards!
Doctor appointments/PT keep filling my day. When I got back from the SSB I had a message from the cardio office. They had made the appointment for the carotid doppler for me on Wednesday. Surprise - I have two other appointments! I got that one cancelled, but rescheduling is going to be difficult I know. But I will give it a go.
I have found that I can walk better. Yesterday for PT I had to park in the parking garage. That entailed a lot of walking. And I could do it without breaking into a sweat because of the pain. In fact, I didn't have pain. So the PT is definitely working on my back, but not my shoulders. Each time we work on them, I am in pain the next day.
I am a little upset with DIL - not enough to make an issue, but at the same time a bit put out. They will be gone at Easter - again. She has been good about rotating major holidays - except Easter. Last year the excuse was that her grandmother had just passed, and they were going to the beach to be with her mom and get her mind off the death. They are going again this year.
A few years my SIL suggested we rent a house at the beach next to or close to a house they would rent. That way the families would have some extended time to be together and the second cousins play and get to know one another better. DIL said she didn't like the beach. Her actions have shown she apparently doesn't like the beach with OUR family. She goes with her mom and also with her dad (they are divorced). Oh well. I just miss seeing my son.
Allergy season is alive and very well here in the Houston area. Everything is blooming, and I am miserable. G kept trying to tell me I had a cold (and gave it to him). I stopped using the Flonase that I got from the pulmonary doc because it makes the glaucoma worse. That has lasted one day. I am miserable. But I see the ophthalmologist on Wednesday. That will be a primary question for her. If not Flonase - what would she suggest. Bet it won't be anything!!!
So today is eyeball puncture day. Got a late appointment, and I am really worried about parking. But G is dropping me off then going to a plant nursery for parts for the riding mower at the SSB (??? - doesn't seem to go together). So I don't have to park. He will afterwards!
Monday, March 30, 2015
Gets my goat.
Hypocrites. They really get to me. Just today on a neighborhood board I came across one. Someone posted the question of wanting to know if there were any charities that accepted small sizes of toiletries. This particular woman has seemed like someone who is kind-hearted and charitable. I suggested a group in the Houston area that distributes items to the homeless. Her response was that homeless people are homeless because they choose to be.
I responded to her that I prayed that she would never fall on hard times that made her join the ranks of the homeless. Then I don't believe she would continue with that attitude. Then several more commented with statements that were far more harsh.
So she did a pm telling me that I knew nothing about her, etc. Well, no. I am sorry she didn't like being called out with her attitude. And I responded just that.
Then it got me thinking. People who claim they follow Christ are among the worst. Her response to the question was much like so many of these "Christians." My son included. He doesn't recognize that bad things can happen to good people. There are so many folks just barely making it out there, and it doesn't take much for them to become homeless. But I could see him making the same type of statement.
It's strange how people look down on those on public assistance - that is until they find themselves there. Then it's ok - for them but not those others. I am special. I deserve help. I cannot help myself. It just doesn't take much to find oneself in need.
G worked in the county "charity hospital." He saw people who had bad times and ended up on welfare. They, for the most part, didn't like it, and tried to get off as soon as possible. Often that meant they had to work two or even more jobs. Wasn't easy for them.
Then there are those who think they deserve what amounts to cheating - after all we are talking about large companies here. They make plenty of money. So what I get from them after putting in just a little of absolutely ok. I deserve it. This goes from accepting too much change to cheating the company out of money. They have plenty. Well - at the end of it all, someone does pay. And that's the rest of us that play by the rules.
Politicians that want to cut medicare, food stamps, other medical benefits and on and on - hypocrites. They sit there with their huge salaries, great retirement plans, Cadillac health plans. But that isn't for the diminishing middle class, and certainly not for those who need a better salary. Nope. Not at all.
I realize just how fortunate I am. While my retirement isn't great, I can live on it. Sure - I would love an increase since I basically have the same monies that I had in 2000. We got one small increase ($100/year) a couple of years ago, but I do have an annuity with the state. Don't get much Social Security that I paid into (being an organist) because of it, but then that applies to a lot of government workers too. I have a fair health insurance plan. I have a roof over my head that is paid for.
Sorry for the rant, and if I stepped on toes, I am a little sorry. We are supposed to treat others with the same respect that we want for ourselves. The old WWJD bracelets always tickled me. Those same folks would deny help to their neighbors. That isn't WJWD (what Jesus would do).
This is just another rant here. It hurts me to see others hurting. I know some of those on the street corners are scams. I realize that. They are among those trying to get something for nothing. There's a lot of that. But so many of those are mentally ill people. There are shelters for them, but honestly - when you look at those shelters, I am not sure I would want to be in one either. Guess that's why I am so glad our Life Group at church made bags of "snack" foods that don't require refrigeration, water and socks to give to the homeless makes me happy.
So if you leave me because of these feelings, I really will miss you. I just had to vent my feelings though.
Sunday, March 29, 2015
Gotta' brag - again
that's my girl. gotta brag (again) on her!
COOK MS STUDENT CHOSEN FOR USA WATER POLO DEVELOPMENT CAMP
March 28, 2015
Cook Middle School eighth-grade student Katie Gill plays for the Southwest Zone team in the USA Water Polo Olympic Development Program tournament, from which she was elevated to the next phase. Gill was selected to the Olympic Development Program Women’s Development National Team selection camp.
March 28, 2015—Cook Middle School eighth-grade student Katie Gill has been selected for the USA Water Polo Olympic Development Program Women’s Development National Team selection camp, to be held May 22-25 in Diamond Bar, Calif.
Gill was the only CFISD student in her age group selected to compete, and one of three from the Southwest Zone. Out of 12 teams of female athletes born in 2001 or later, Gill was one of the top 70 athletes invited to go back to California in late May to try out to make the Development National Team.
Out of the 70, approximately 20 will be selected for the next step. If invited back, Gill will be invited to attend two additional training camps in June and August, respectively.
Gill has played water polo for two years, and plans to play at Jersey Village High School next year for Coach Stuart Webb.
“I am very happy for Katie making the National Team Selection Camp,” said Allie Gill, Southwest Zone girls’ head coach. “Katie was a leader for our very young team at the ODP National Championships and had a great attitude the entire season. She is very coachable and was an asset for the Southwest Zone Development Team. She is a hard worker and has a bright future in the sport.”
Cook Middle School eighth-grade student Katie Gill has been selected for the USA Water Polo Olympic Development Program Women’s Development National Team selection camp.
Katie Gill defends for the Viper Pigeons club team at the 2014 USA Water Polo Junior Olympics.
Saturday, March 28, 2015
I AM still around!
I am still coughing, sneezing and blowing the nose a lot, but I am still around. We went to the SSB last Thursday (the previous Thursday - after my last post). I was really in pretty bad shape. I must have been running a fever because I was freezing the entire week. I am still sure it was/it allergies because all the plants and trees are putting out copious amounts of pollen. I hate to have an attack like this because it takes so long to go away. Once I begin coughing, I cough for weeks after. I think I need to make an appointment with the pulmonologist because this time my chest feels like an elephant is sitting on it. I am wondering if I have developed asthma. I really sound like a hypochondriac!
My prayers that G wouldn't get sick and blame me weren't answered. He sees no relationship between him having to use the push mower at the SSB and his attack. He is sure it is a cold and I gave it to him. I don't see how since I had mine for over a week before he came down with the cough and so on. After talking to SIL, I am wondering if perhaps we have a bug. She said there was one going around in Austin that she caught. It took her three weeks to get over it! The thing that makes me wonder is that we both are having headaches. I didn't think anything about mine because I get such strange things anyway until I talked to her. So perhaps my self-diagnosis was incorrect
There are many topics that have been floating around in my head as food for a blog post. One in particular is something that has been really bothering me, but I am thinking it would become controversial. I really don't like to post things that are really controversial. That isn't my real intent here. So that means I have completed this bit of trivia for today!! Have a great weekend. I don't know what the rest of the weekend brings for me. With G hacking over there - he won't want to go anywhere, and with the bad temper it puts him in, I don't want him to go anywhere!! He is a terrible bear. Typical man getting sick.
My prayers that G wouldn't get sick and blame me weren't answered. He sees no relationship between him having to use the push mower at the SSB and his attack. He is sure it is a cold and I gave it to him. I don't see how since I had mine for over a week before he came down with the cough and so on. After talking to SIL, I am wondering if perhaps we have a bug. She said there was one going around in Austin that she caught. It took her three weeks to get over it! The thing that makes me wonder is that we both are having headaches. I didn't think anything about mine because I get such strange things anyway until I talked to her. So perhaps my self-diagnosis was incorrect
There are many topics that have been floating around in my head as food for a blog post. One in particular is something that has been really bothering me, but I am thinking it would become controversial. I really don't like to post things that are really controversial. That isn't my real intent here. So that means I have completed this bit of trivia for today!! Have a great weekend. I don't know what the rest of the weekend brings for me. With G hacking over there - he won't want to go anywhere, and with the bad temper it puts him in, I don't want him to go anywhere!! He is a terrible bear. Typical man getting sick.
Tuesday, March 17, 2015
Praying hard!
I thought that what bothered me Saturday night and Sunday night was allergies. I couldn't use the CPAP because it irritated my nose (particularly the left nostril). I have been sneezing and my nose is just flowing - like an allergy.
I cancelled PT today. I couldn't see me being able to do physical activity with this mess. So when Krissi called me to pick up Katie at school I said sure.
I was talking to her about G saying I have a cold rather than allergies. We talked more and she said none of her team was sick. THEN she remembered, and so did I, that the girl who rode with us from the airport was sitting right behind me - hacking.
I am fervently praying because if G gets the cold, he will be impossible to live with. Men don't do sick well, and he surely doesn't. AND I will be trapped with him in the truck for 6 hours on the way to the SSB. Geesh!
With all the itching of eyes, nose and ears, I am still hopeful for allergies.
I cancelled PT today. I couldn't see me being able to do physical activity with this mess. So when Krissi called me to pick up Katie at school I said sure.
I was talking to her about G saying I have a cold rather than allergies. We talked more and she said none of her team was sick. THEN she remembered, and so did I, that the girl who rode with us from the airport was sitting right behind me - hacking.
I am fervently praying because if G gets the cold, he will be impossible to live with. Men don't do sick well, and he surely doesn't. AND I will be trapped with him in the truck for 6 hours on the way to the SSB. Geesh!
With all the itching of eyes, nose and ears, I am still hopeful for allergies.
Monday, March 16, 2015
I survived - barely
Our flight landed at 12:30 a.m. today. The flights to and from LA were completely full. In fact going they over booked. There was a family who were completely separated. Dad had no seat, but fortunately he was employed by United - so he flew in the Flight Attendant's area. But I felt sorry for his son. He was way in the back of the plane - alone. The mom and little girl got to be together. But checking on the boy was difficult because the beverage cart completely blocks the aisle so much of the time that they couldn't get back to him. The man with the mom said it would move, but for some reason it didn't work out that way.
Walking is difficult for me. We have discussed that. Well! Being with athletes is not for the walking deprived! Especially water polo athletes. They have legs that are stronger than steel!
Krissi was the "team mom" which meant she drive the 15 passenger team van. Parking is at a premium at best - but she really was nervous about backing that whale so we would be parked pretty far from the venues as it was. Then Saturday night when a dinner place was chosen I knew she wouldn't be taking the van, and no one else would be driving either. The parking lot for the hotel was tiny. Add all these 15 passenger vans, AND all the parental rental cars meant it would fill rapidly. So they were going to walk it. It was ONLY 5 blocks. I asked them to bring something back.
Over the two days I really believe I walked about 5 miles. Another thing that could have been problematic was the sun. Here is Texas we are such wimps - our pools for swimming events are enclosed. California has their pools outside. The stands have a roof - for afternoon coverage. Our games were before noon. The sun was bright. I am fair, plus some of my meds make me even more apt to burn. Surprisingly I didn't!!! I did use sunscreen, but I was still surprised!
Now the real news - she made it to the next phase to the National Team. Ultimately, this is the road to the Olympic Team. It is a long, hard road. She made it to the next training camp. There were three girls from each region chosen. Then from there she has to make it to the NEXT camp. And from there it is the National Team I believe. As she gets older and continues to make the teams - then it is the Olympic Team.
Walking is difficult for me. We have discussed that. Well! Being with athletes is not for the walking deprived! Especially water polo athletes. They have legs that are stronger than steel!
Krissi was the "team mom" which meant she drive the 15 passenger team van. Parking is at a premium at best - but she really was nervous about backing that whale so we would be parked pretty far from the venues as it was. Then Saturday night when a dinner place was chosen I knew she wouldn't be taking the van, and no one else would be driving either. The parking lot for the hotel was tiny. Add all these 15 passenger vans, AND all the parental rental cars meant it would fill rapidly. So they were going to walk it. It was ONLY 5 blocks. I asked them to bring something back.
Over the two days I really believe I walked about 5 miles. Another thing that could have been problematic was the sun. Here is Texas we are such wimps - our pools for swimming events are enclosed. California has their pools outside. The stands have a roof - for afternoon coverage. Our games were before noon. The sun was bright. I am fair, plus some of my meds make me even more apt to burn. Surprisingly I didn't!!! I did use sunscreen, but I was still surprised!
Now the real news - she made it to the next phase to the National Team. Ultimately, this is the road to the Olympic Team. It is a long, hard road. She made it to the next training camp. There were three girls from each region chosen. Then from there she has to make it to the NEXT camp. And from there it is the National Team I believe. As she gets older and continues to make the teams - then it is the Olympic Team.
 |
| This is the final awards ceremony. The girls are sitting here at the end waiting for the announcement of those who have made it to go on. Katie (for those who don't know) is the one in the center with the large, very curly hair!! She is so nervous at this time waiting for the names!! |
Friday, March 13, 2015
Ummm, Friday the 13th
And I am doing something I hate! I am boarding the plane to California. I. Hate. Planes.
It's not because I am afraid of flying. Once I am through security (generally) I am fine. I hate security. If you remember the last time I flew OUT of LAX I thought I wasn't going to because they "screwed" up boarding passes. Of course this time, in the back of my mind, is the stupid thinking of "oh, Friday the 13th - bad luck." Those seats are meant for pencils. They keep making them smaller and smaller. All to get more passengers on board. Yuck. That's why I love the train.
I had dreams of taking Katie since it's Spring Break here and take the train to California. But the schedule from Houston to Los Angeles isn't hard and fast. We have to yield to freight trains. She would love to take the train. We talked about it one day that I picked her up from school. So it's on the plane we will get.
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The CPAP and I have made friends for the most part. Night before last, I had it pulled so tight that it hurt. Last night I backed off a little and I was much more comfortable! It showed that I only had a partial event last night. Now how I could stop breathing for a partial "event" is beyond me, but OK!
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Tuesday my therapist did measurements again. My ranges of motion have greatly improved. He was going to ask the doctor for orders for another month with the goal of going into strengthening exercises. I do feel the flexibility improving, and I am very happy with my progress. Yesterday he spoke words of terror however. We will begin working on the legs.
I have been babying my legs since having the knees replaced. I have been afraid of - well, pain. So I haven't been doing as I should. Shoot - this is the story of my life these days. The arthritis hurts. I know I should get up and move, but I don't because of the pains. Well - that isn't going to be the way for about a month. Hopefully I will begin gaining strength so I can move better!
I am out of touch until Tuesday I believe. Our flight lands Sunday night about midnight. I doubt I will be visiting here on Monday!
It's not because I am afraid of flying. Once I am through security (generally) I am fine. I hate security. If you remember the last time I flew OUT of LAX I thought I wasn't going to because they "screwed" up boarding passes. Of course this time, in the back of my mind, is the stupid thinking of "oh, Friday the 13th - bad luck." Those seats are meant for pencils. They keep making them smaller and smaller. All to get more passengers on board. Yuck. That's why I love the train.
I had dreams of taking Katie since it's Spring Break here and take the train to California. But the schedule from Houston to Los Angeles isn't hard and fast. We have to yield to freight trains. She would love to take the train. We talked about it one day that I picked her up from school. So it's on the plane we will get.
________________________________________________________________________________
The CPAP and I have made friends for the most part. Night before last, I had it pulled so tight that it hurt. Last night I backed off a little and I was much more comfortable! It showed that I only had a partial event last night. Now how I could stop breathing for a partial "event" is beyond me, but OK!
_________________________________________________________________________________
Tuesday my therapist did measurements again. My ranges of motion have greatly improved. He was going to ask the doctor for orders for another month with the goal of going into strengthening exercises. I do feel the flexibility improving, and I am very happy with my progress. Yesterday he spoke words of terror however. We will begin working on the legs.
I have been babying my legs since having the knees replaced. I have been afraid of - well, pain. So I haven't been doing as I should. Shoot - this is the story of my life these days. The arthritis hurts. I know I should get up and move, but I don't because of the pains. Well - that isn't going to be the way for about a month. Hopefully I will begin gaining strength so I can move better!
I am out of touch until Tuesday I believe. Our flight lands Sunday night about midnight. I doubt I will be visiting here on Monday!
Wednesday, March 11, 2015
Fixed
I read the directions (amazing isn't it??) for the CPAP mask. I followed the steps. I tightened the straps over the head. When they did it, I had my wig on. Then tightened the ones across the face. That mask was plastered on my face - but it worked. No squeaks nor fart sounds! No blowing me across the bed. It worked. At its highest - I didn't realize it was there. I thought it was still ramping! But I still didn't sleep well. Getting up early just about killing me!
We started the day taking the truck to have its oil changed. That meant breakfast out. Heaven. Then we went to Life Group. In addition to the "lesson," we made bags for the homeless that are begging on the street corners. G said that for us they would have to be standing in the doorways of the medical center where we are going (feels like daily and some days twice a day). We just don't go places where the homeless are . Oh well.
Then we met Brian and family for lunch. The restaurant we went to used to be delicious. Today it was not good.
I chuckled to myself. DIL is saying she wants to become a nurse anesthetist. This girl doesn't have the brains to do that. She had a hard time in high school, and she has started college before. Money is on her getting pregnant with #4. I don't know how she thinks she is going to go part time but thinks she can complete her BS (or BA) in nursing in 4 1/2 years. Nope.
Then she will try to work for 2 years at one of the two county hospitals that are for the indigent. G worked with them before he retired. You have to have a lot of patience with those folks, and Christina doesn't, She went to a medical assistant school. Worked in an office for a couple of days, and walked out. No notice. Nothing.
I really don't mean to sound so negative, but this girl/woman has been like this since I have known her!!
We started the day taking the truck to have its oil changed. That meant breakfast out. Heaven. Then we went to Life Group. In addition to the "lesson," we made bags for the homeless that are begging on the street corners. G said that for us they would have to be standing in the doorways of the medical center where we are going (feels like daily and some days twice a day). We just don't go places where the homeless are . Oh well.
Then we met Brian and family for lunch. The restaurant we went to used to be delicious. Today it was not good.
I chuckled to myself. DIL is saying she wants to become a nurse anesthetist. This girl doesn't have the brains to do that. She had a hard time in high school, and she has started college before. Money is on her getting pregnant with #4. I don't know how she thinks she is going to go part time but thinks she can complete her BS (or BA) in nursing in 4 1/2 years. Nope.
Then she will try to work for 2 years at one of the two county hospitals that are for the indigent. G worked with them before he retired. You have to have a lot of patience with those folks, and Christina doesn't, She went to a medical assistant school. Worked in an office for a couple of days, and walked out. No notice. Nothing.
I really don't mean to sound so negative, but this girl/woman has been like this since I have known her!!
Tuesday, March 10, 2015
Yawn
Got the machine. Put it on, and it nearly blew me out of the bed! So I changed the setting - some. It did ramp as it should. For you lucky folks who haven't had to use one of these - that means that the air comes out slowly and then gets up to the full force. It is supposed to give continual pressure to keep the air passages open.
As I laid there, the mask would leak air. And not silently. It could be a squeak or sound like a kid making farting sounds. Loudly.My previous machine felt like it gave constant air flow. This one feels like it pulses.
When I first put it on, I used a setting I thought would be appropriate. (When I was at the office - when the technician showed me what to do - but AFTER she had me remove my glasses. Not. A. Good. Thing!!!!) That setting would ramp. It would blow for a while, and then STOP! You feel like there is no air in the world when that happens! Then it would start ramping up again. It did this three times and then I decided I had to change that setting to turn it on. I am such a fast learner! Three times? Really???
When I changed it all back, it worked fine - with the exceptions of farting sounds, and I slept poorly because of all that. I must have finally fallen asleep very soundly. I woke about 8 (after falling asleep about 12:30) my mouth was as dry as the desert. So first thing I did this morning was to up the humidity of the machine as high as it would go.
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I ordered the HDMI cable from my stand-by Amazon. I paid for express shipping. I am supposed to get it today. We will see. Doubting is my long suit!
As I laid there, the mask would leak air. And not silently. It could be a squeak or sound like a kid making farting sounds. Loudly.My previous machine felt like it gave constant air flow. This one feels like it pulses.
When I first put it on, I used a setting I thought would be appropriate. (When I was at the office - when the technician showed me what to do - but AFTER she had me remove my glasses. Not. A. Good. Thing!!!!) That setting would ramp. It would blow for a while, and then STOP! You feel like there is no air in the world when that happens! Then it would start ramping up again. It did this three times and then I decided I had to change that setting to turn it on. I am such a fast learner! Three times? Really???
When I changed it all back, it worked fine - with the exceptions of farting sounds, and I slept poorly because of all that. I must have finally fallen asleep very soundly. I woke about 8 (after falling asleep about 12:30) my mouth was as dry as the desert. So first thing I did this morning was to up the humidity of the machine as high as it would go.
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I ordered the HDMI cable from my stand-by Amazon. I paid for express shipping. I am supposed to get it today. We will see. Doubting is my long suit!
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