I'm freezing!

Sorry, I was drawing a blank on a title, so I used that one. It fits, because, well, I am freezing! First time I've worn a sweat outfit in a long time. Still hard to believe we're in October and we're still having some warm days here and there. I'm doing all my "blog" checking up and catching up this morning. Of course, I'm supposed to be working; and I am... Really!

My weekend was rather uneventful but that's nice. Friday was great! We went to Hannah and Aiden's bday party and it was lots of fun! It was Maya's first official bday party that she's actually attended (besides her own of course- but that doesn't count). She was supposed to go to one a few weeks ago and was under the weather. We had a good time - andAmy did such a good job with the party. We were blessed with such beautiful weather on Friday, it was truly amazing.. what a nice turnout. I also 'stole' a pic from Michelle that I'll post later on. I had to have it. :) Sorry :( Hope you don't mind.

In other news: I have a new favorite restaurant. The Continental in Old City.
Love it! I only had seriously 2 pieces of 3 appetizers that we ordered on Saturday night but boy oh boy, was it some good stuff! I have to go there again -- this place is awesome. The bar was nice too... there are elevators that lead up to the higher levels and the roof top patio that's filled with tables for outside dining.
Rather romantic if you ask me. My recommendation: The cheesteak egg rolls, the BBQ chicken quesadillas, (we also ordered the Calamari, but I didn't try it).
I'll be back later -- Work calls.

Me, Maya & Jack

We went to Duffield's Farm a couple of weeks ago and they had this cool display of scarecrows, created by students at a local school. They were all really creative!
My favorite for some reason was this one... Jack from NightMare before Christmas.

I normally don't post pics because I'm still not too comfortable doing so... at least when it comes to my niece...but had to share this one.

Have you left your mark?

.. that's what my Pepsi can says on it. So naturally I think to myself: "Well, have I?".. I'm pretty confident in thinking that I might have; yes. :)
Have you? Strange how this little can of Pepsi can provoke such deep thoughts..
One little phrase can make you sit and seriously consider if and how you've made a difference somewhere, somehow.


That's it.. I just thought that was worth sharing.. I found a link for the can.. if I find a better one,with the actual can I'll post later..
See the design and story here!

When the cat's away.. the mouse will

Blog! My boss has left for the afternoon, so now I'm not paranoid about being on the internet as much.
Amy motivated me to post more often.. by giving me props for two in a row without months between them! So here I am! Tuesday was hump day, as tomorrow is the end of my work week. Even after 4 years here I still debate whether I like this schedule or if I'd prefer a regular Monday thru Friday. I like having my Fridays off when most everyone else is working.. Shopping is a breeze during the morning/early afternoon hours; that's for sure.
So, school is pretty good - (I think!) The instructor is a bit wacky and we're all still trying to figure what the hell is going on with her! This is my second week which makes it technically 4 nights that I've attended (tonight being the 4th).. and of those 3 we've had already, she has dismissed us early. The class runs 6 til 9 and each of the times she dismissed early, we left before 8. That doesn't seem like a big problem, and it might not be if we felt like we were actually learning something. We have yet to actually be "taught" anything. Honestly. We've been assigned chapters to read, and terminology to study.. we made up charts for our "patients" .. created an office letterhead etc.. but she has not actually stood up and talked about anything or went over chapters with us. She instructs us to do the Maevis Beacon typing tutorial at EVERY class.. and quite frankly, I'm sick of that woman! I type/do data entry ALL day at my full time job, so when I get to school, the last thing I want to do is beat my fingers to a pulp so more!
I fully expect to receive a certificate for this class upon completion; as well as a nice case of Carpal Tunnel! I'm not tooting my own horn here, but I can type between 60 and 70 wpm so I hardly feel that I need to "brush up" on my skills.
I'm almost confident that someone in this class is going to go to administration to complain about the instructor... because everyone is very dissatisfied with the class or the lack thereof. When class is over each night, the gals gather outside and talk amongst themselves... about what they're NOT getting out of it and how they wasted their money.. I do agree with them but of course I'm the optimist who believes that better days are coming. It's to a point where the teacher sits up at the front of the room at her desk, and you can hear the faint audio coming out of the computer speakers.. clearly indicating that she's on the internet. I highly doubt it's related to class. Our first set of med term words to study consisted of, I wanna say, about 30 words... and of those 30 words, we were tested on 10! So now do you see while we're all at odds over this class?! God forgive us if we're being too hard on this woman.. but I don't think so ... yet.

All that glitters... is GOLD!

I was sitting here at work this afternoon, unsuccessfully trying to un-knot my Helzberg "D" necklace... and a co-worker came by with a couple hints on how to untangle it. Then he goes on to tell me that his wife took some old GOLD jewelry out 'o the jewelry box this weekend to see what she could get for it. He said she had a couple of old tangled necklaces, maybe a broken bracelet and a ring. He said she seriously ended up getting $275 back! Who woulda 'thunk' it.
I think that's crazy! I have to get home and see what I have that I plan on NEVER wearing.. again.. I know there has to be something in that old box. Especially since I wear strictly silver or white gold.
Of course there are a few things I wouldn't dare sell, like "firsts" etc..because you just can't part with things like that. Or at least I can't.

Evidently, dealers/jewelers are paying TOP dollar for Gold these days.

TGIF Friends!!

My work week officially ends on Thursday at 5 p.m... and yesterday for some reason I just couldnt wait for my week, let alone, day to end! Not sure what my plans are today besides cleaning the house, my room and taking my comforter to the laundromat.
I've learned way too many times that it's just too big for the washer we have.. and we have a regular household washer. I don't really miss the days of laundromats and carting our laundry to and fro, but I'll take a book with me and I'll be fine.

My niece has been telling me all morning that we are going to Chuck E. Cheese.
Really? Mommy is at a meeting for work, so Baby M and I made breakfast together.
It's her new thing.. she loves to help in the kitchen. Last night she came out while I was preparing dinner and said "Dee, I wanna make dinner with you". So we cut broccoli, shook the chicken (shake -n- bake Italian flavor, you ,must get it!).. and then we made stuffing. I confess: it was instant, but good nonetheless. I love it when she sees me making dinner and pulls a chair up to the counter. It's just precious. She knows that we don't put the chair near the oven... it stays closest to the sink and she's not allowed to reach. But, oh, if she would only EAT what she helps make. Some days she's a great eater and others; not so much. Oh well... (I guess). She's going to a bday party in a couple weeks.. and I'll get to hang out with my fellow bloggers! LOL Looking forward to it. Haven't seen Aiden and Hannah since Aunt Nee Nee was here... so it'll be nice to spend time with them, and Amy.
She's an awesome Mommy. :)

** Note: In case you don't know, my niece calls me "Dee Dee"... Always has... and I love it!! She does know my name is Dawn.. but since she was able to mutter any words and then moved on to names, she has just always stuck with DeeDee. My other sister Gloria is GiGi. I often wonder if she'll continue to call me Dee Dee in years to come. She just might, huh?

Hope you have an awesome weekend!
My reminder popped up on my Blackberry this morning that the Stratford Fall Festival is Saturday.. Don't know if anyone's in the area.. but it might be nice.
Looks like fun!

Winds of change....

After talking about it for what seemed like eternity.. I finally went and registered for the course I wanted at school. I happened to be on the site the other day just perusing the course offerings etc.. when I came upon the course that I'd been long wanting to take. Thursday I went and got all squared away with it... and now I'm enrolled! I start on Monday - wow! Oh yeah, I left that part out; the fact that I literally signed up while there were only 4 seats and 4 days left. Hey, what can I say? I'm a proscratinator sometimes. The course? Administrative Medical Secretarial. (no, I didn't mean to say secretary). I typed it just like it's listed. So, anyhoo, I go 2 times a week until December-ish. I'm really looking forward to it. So......while life has been full of some not so positives lately, I decided to grab it by the horns and start focusing on ME. Sounds selfish, but most of you know, it's not. Sometimes, you just FINALLY realize that life does not come to you. You have to make things happen, and that's what I intend to do.
I've put a lot of time and effort into over seeing a lot of other things/people in the past few years and I'm finally able to step back and take a break to find my happiness. I'm still going to be busy with the food drive though... so don't fret about that.. I still need all the help I can get.

Ah, Fall......

I love fall! I went to the ACME today on my break and they had all the harvest stuff out! All the punkins, those pretty plants (what are they called?), the hay bales! Uh, I love it. Fall is the best season ever.

I can't wait to get some good pictures. We're going to Johnson's Farm for punkin picking soon!

Ok, that's it. Going to bed now.

Give me 5 minutes with these MONSTERS!

I realize that God doesn't 'allow' these things to happen... He just gave us free will.
If I was left in a room with these sorry excuses for humans, I promise you that only one of us would be walking out.

That time again....

I've updated my BountifulFeast website... and am starting to roll it out again, for this year's mission. Please share the link to it with friends and family alike. Last year was a pretty good turnout.. we fed 3 families/individuals in all. I wish it were more but in any case; it was 3 more families that might have otherwise not had a meal. As always, if you know someone who could benefit, please let me know. Donations are ALWAYS being accepted as well. You can use the contact tab on the page to send me any info. Thanks - God Bless.

Cinderella didn't have this problem!

I'm trying to find a dress for a special 'thing' I'm going to...

Thinking I'd like it to be semi-formal..

I've looked all over the internet and in some department stores (Boscov's, Penney's).. I'm just not finding one. Ok, maybe I'm lying there; I am finding some but I refuse to spend a fortune on something that I'm really only going to wear this ONE TIME. Ladies: If you've any ideas, please don't hold back!
I'm off to the GoodWill and consignment shops this week...

I even considered maybe having a favorite bridesmaid dress dyed.. ??
Yay or Nay? Ugh - it's tough being a cheap thrifty woman.

Awkward Moments suck....

So if you read my previous post about my dad 'issue', then you know where I stood on things. Sorta. Well, as Thursday (last week) I still hadn't conjured up the nerve to call my dad. Even though I was really concerned about him and wondering how he'd been, I guess it was my stubborness and pride that kept me from initiating any kind of contact with him. I'm still very disappointed with the whole event and how things "went down" <-- slang, sorry.

So anyhoo - I was outside with the puppy the other night and it was about 10 p.m. and up comes my dad in an attempt to drop off some mail for my brother. It's my thinking that he came that late because he knew (so he thought! lol) that there was no chance of running into any of us. And there I was! So long story short, he pulled up to me, made himself known, and we talked. For a while. I'm sad to report that he's not feeling much better these days and is in a lot of pain. He says that the PAD has him in such a state of discomfort that he just simply can not function with even the simplest of tasks anymore... even for a few minutes. If you're just checking in; you can see what PAD is here
So, the PAD coupled with the, COPD,and now the LUPUS, has really got him feeling really bad.
I was just so glad to see him that I would have never addressed the issue with my brother. Sure, it gets to me at times and sometimes I just want to go over to my dad's and stepmom's house and lay it all out on the table, but I can't do that to my dad. I know how frail his health is right now.. and I won't do anything to compromise it anymore than it is. I can leave that up to my step mom..... after all; she DID call here the night that my dad was in the hospital after having his last stent put in. He's laying there in a hospital bed recuperating, and she's on the phone leaving a message for my brother to "call her".. I can only assume, with the utmost confidence, that she was calling to "give him the heave-ho" right then.
But no, she waited for the weekend after. Yes, the weekend that followed his high school graduation..

So, anyway...Dad's going in for another surgery... This time it's Bypass.. I know he doesn't want to have it done, but the cardiologist thinks it's the best.
I hope so.. because I can't stand to see my dad in this way. I want him to be able to "live" again. I've said a lot of prayers and I'll continue to do so..

Things that make you go.........

Hmmmmm! Ok, so real quick, I had two pet peeves that I was going to share with you... but now I can only remember one of them. Guess that means that the other one wasn't really that big a deal and I'm over it now!?

So, here's the deal.. I go the gym the other day on my lunch break at work.. I'm in the locker room getting undressed and I hear the voices of two young BOYS with their (I assume) mother. Now, I know there are times when women take their young sons into restrooms .. which I've never really had an issue with... but to bring them into a women's locker room where we're getting undressed?! These weren't baby boys either...They were probably anywhere from 6 to 9 in age. She did have options, if that's what you're thinking. There is a babysitting room where she could have asked them to wait until she was finished in the locker room.

Ugh - this incident just really aggravated me..

Deep Breaths

Jesus' own instructions were for the offended to go to the offender and for the two of them to find a way to reconcile their differences.

That line sums up the way I've felt about things ALOT lately. I rarely 'write' about negativity or whine about life when things are in disarray.. but then there comes a time when it helps to get it off my chest. And hey, this is MY blog after all. :)

So this post is about family. My family. And how I feel like it has completely fallen apart.. and if it hasn't, then it sure as hell is hanging by a very thin thread.

I often think back to the year I was (22 or 23) and I informed my then room mates and still very good friends, that my parents were divorcing. I still remember "C" being rather shocked and saying "What!? I thought you guys were like the Brady Bunch!" Just goes to show that sometimes things that appear so perfect on the surface, just really aren't always such. I knew for a long time that they weren't, but to others who were just in "the audience", they were.
I try to think back and wonder if it was my parents' divorce that started the domino effect of when it all fell away to sh*t. Actually, there was a point in time when my parents were civil and we were still the closest thing to a family that we could be. So, let me clarify that I'm not blaming my parents divorce on the severance of our family ties. Apparently, those ties are only being threatened now. I've put my blood, sweat and tears into trying to hold this family together. But, to be fair: I'm not the only one that made the effort. It just seems that all hell has broke loose this year. To be brief, here's the deal: My stepmother put my 18 yr old brother out of the house she and my dad SHARE... and my Dad allowed it to happen. Granted; my dad's health is frail but I do blame him partially for my brother being put through that. He had nowhere to go except my mom's and the place my sister and I share.. My mom's place is too small so he's with us. I don't say that like it's an inconvenience, but sometimes I feel like he thinks he is and no one should feel like that. Not when you're family.
I haven't really talked to my Dad since this all took place. I know I should .. and I do when I bump into him or if HE calls, but I don't make the first move. I'm really disappointed in him. Maybe moreso because this isn't the first time he has done this to my brother. He did it once before when he was much younger.. and I had a hard time forgiving him that time too. I ended up taking my brother back home that time, because my dad called and asked me to.. but I know in my heart that my brother still thinks about that. What child wouldn't remember being put out on your mom's front steps with a couple trash bags of clothes, because you were "out of control"..?? Out of control? He was young, he did stupid things.. a messy room, taking batteries out of remotes, etc... NOTHING that warranted that from my dad. And even then, he did it because his wife "said so".

So without going into further whining and long winded details.. the end result here is that my family is one big mess these days. My sisters, and brother and I are not really speaking to my dad, and have plenty of animosity towards my dad's wife.
It's unfortunate, with my dad's health being so uncertain, that we're at this point. It basically all just really sucks. My sister and I try to retain some normalcy.. to be the best of our ability with all the turmoil. I wish my eldest sister was more involved in our lives and a more permanent fixture in her niece's.
I wouldn't trade being an aunt for anything in this world... and I never thought she would either. We need each other right now.. whether she wants to realize it or not. We miss her and we miss "us".. She has gone through some tough times this year as well, but we've been here for her all along. You can't reach someone who is running the other way. Both of my sisters' divorces were finalized this year. A double whammy there. Not what I would have wanted for either of them..ultimately. But I know the circumstances behind it and I support their decisions whole-heartedly.

Well, that's it in a nutshell... My thoughts were really running away for a while there so I hope I've made some sense and organized them fairly well.


Blessed are the PEACEMAKERS,

for they shall be known as

the Children of God.

But I say to you that hear,

love your enemies,

do good to those who hate you,

bless those who curse you,

pray for those who abuse you.

To those who strike you on the cheek,

offer the other also,

and from those who take away your cloak,

do not withhold your coat as well.

Give to everyone who begs from you,

and of those who take away your goods,

do not ask them again.

And as you wish that others would do to you,

so do to them.

Rain, Rain go away.....

Just a couple updates before I turn in for the night..

Went and saw The Dark Knight last night. It was a great movie, Heath Ledger better win something, maybe even an Oscar. His acting in this movie was beyond that of a great actor. It was amazing. Christian Bale was pretty hot as well.
I did like the movie A LOT but I had trouble sleeping last night and I can't help but wonder if it was the movie that caused it. I mean, trouble sleeping to the point that I didn't want to be alone, not just insomnia. What a wuss!
Doesn't make sense; because if you know me, then you know that I am a huge HORROR MOVIE buff... and I don't lose sleep over those movies. BUT, regardless, I totally recommend the movie.. it was awesome!

Update #2: I just got my hair colored tonight. I went back to my natural color... or as close to it as I could. I love it. It really brings out my eyes that's for sure, since it's dark now. Not bad. I'll post some before and after pics when I get some uploaded.

Bummed

It appears that Nate & Tricia (CFHusband) have been dealt a real setback.
I'm a little discouraged.. I felt like I was just knocked off of a really high pedestal. I know that Nate & Tricia don't feel that way.. and I'm not losing Faith by any means, I just ask that you say lots of prayers for them.

Sugar and Spice

Being an aunt must just be the most fun ever.
Baby M is really growing up.. and with each day, I find myself more enthralled with her.

To listen to the things that come out of her little mouth (good and bad - LOL) is just amazing. A true gift from God.


She is so perfect in every way. I love this child to death.
I wish I could post pics but I've been so apprehensive in doing so... even though I know everyone else does it.

Maybe one day I'll stop being so paranoid.

Updates on Dad - sorta

Sorry to say that I don't really have any since the last one except from "hear say". Unfortunately, I haven't really talked to my dad in a few weeks. I will call him in the next day or two to see how he is. Things have just been a little awkward this past month. My family is not in one of the best places right now. Things are difficult and very uneasy, to say the least.
Not at liberty to get into details right now.. Just say that decisions were made that had a real impact on other peoples' lives and it's not for the better. Well, I guess it really depends on how you look at it.

I did hear from my brother that my dad is going to have the by-pass done. I know he has been very apprehensive about it and he opted for the angioplasty this last time around.. but I guess this last procedure wasn't that effective so he realizes that the bypass is his only other option now.

I'll call and talk to him about it hopefully.

The Longest Day

Is that a song?? Maybe not.. Anyhoo, I went on my 2nd day trip with Starr Tours this past Friday. I really didn't enjoy it at all. Sorry to say that after paying $66 to go and then spending another $100 while there. But it's over with so on with life.

I just thought it was going to be a lot more exciting, or interesting I should say.
Oh well... It definitely wasn't.

My next day trip this year will probably be a trip to Ocean City or Cape May. Jeff and I haven't been there since last year.. so maybe we'll do that next weekend.
We did go swimming a bit yesterday and that was nice and relaxing. We also worked out together. Jeff's new place has a fitness room and it's literally about 50 feet away from his apartment! No excuses not to go.
I've been working out on my own for a few months now at my gym... and I guess it's paying off. Jeff says I've lost weight and just yesterday he said my butt has a shape to it now. That's a good thing. I think.

Priceless

I don't have much time to post right now...
but this will hold you over....

Go to this link..... and check out the site.

Wishuponahero


Go "home" and click on featured wishes...

Look at July 8th (Spongebob Wish)

I will send an email once it's all updated...

Under Construction

Yes, as you can see, I've been fiddling a bit with editing my page.
I really liked the old style but I have the itch for a change. Please be patient if you stop by and things are amiss. I'm still learning a lot of the how-to's.

And now I'm having a really hard time typing because I'm at work and I was walking past some file cabinets, and I guess I was swinging my arms and caught one of the drawer handles right on the front of my hand! It felt like hitting the funny bone and now I can't really bend my fingers or use the mouse for the computer. Sounds like fun. Good thing I have a live-in nurse at home! My sister.

I'm just a posting machine!

I'm at work on a Saturday morning and it's 07:00. Early as heck for me!
Driving to work at 5:30 was odd. There were practically no cars on the highway which made for a smooth commute. Just looking for something to do and came across a website with some neat life quotes and such. Here is one I held on to so I could share it with you.


Do not undermine your worth by comparing yourself with others.
It is because we are different that each of us is special.

Do not set your goals. Only you know what is best for you.

Do not take for granted the things closest to your heart. Cling to them
as you would your life, for without them, life is meaningless.

Do not let your life slip through your fingers by living in the past nor
for the future. By living your life one day at a time, you live all the
days of your life.

Nothing is really over until the moment you stop trying.

It is a fragile thread that binds us to each other.
Do not be afraid to encounter risks.It is by taking chances
that we learn how to be brave.

Do not shut love out of your life by saying it is impossible to find.
The quickest way to receive love is to give love; The fastest way to
lose love is to hold it too tightly.

Do not dismiss your dreams.
To be without dreams is to be without hope;
To be without hope is to be without purpose.

Do not run through life so fast that you forget not only where you have
been, but also where you are going. Life is not a race, but a journey
to be savored each step of the way.

Have A Blessed Day! Hope you all had a great 4th!

Me... explained.

I was shuffling through some old email, and found a note I had sent myself from work one day.... Short and sweet, the subject line read: "Quote from the bible":

Jesus' own instructions were for the offended to go to the offender and for the two of them to find a way to reconcile their differences.


Perhaps, that's my mantra. While I may not forget easily, I forgive very easily, usually without thinking twice.
Most people don't understand why or how I can do it... and I don't even, myself, know sometimes. At the times when most people are hating a particular person, I find myself praying for them and remembering their positive attributes.

I don't think it's a flaw.. I think it's a blessing.

Hi, I'm Dawn..... and I'm a bargain shopper

I tend to be thrifty... not to the point of absurdity but I LOVE a deal and I love to save money. So my most recent venture was to find a new bedding set. Of course I headed to Ross where I do most of my clothes shopping... and alas!, this is what I bought... I had to have it when I saw it... and it is so "ME"....

I can not find it (this 4 piece set) for under $150 on the internet anywhere..... and I got it for a cool 30 bucks!

Yay me! (note: this set is made up of just the *2 pillow shams, comforter and bed skirt) *I may splurge and buy some of the additional throw pillows and the sheet set one of these days.

Spark People

Just another quick post... for all of my weight loss buddies.
If you haven't checked out the website, Spark People, you must!
I joined about a year or two ago and got away from it but today I just went back and started my page back up. You should really check it out if you're looking for a little or even a lot of support with your goals toward weight loss, a healthier lifestyle and the like. I think it's a wonderful site where you can connect with other people who have similar goals and can share your progress, tips, etc..
I can't even list all of the features that Spark People offers. From nutrition trackers to weight loss tickers, to fitness plans... you can search for a Fitness Buddy in your area and everything. If nothing else, at least go check it out and see what you think. One of the best parts of it: It's TOTALLY FREE!!

sparkpeople

Baby, baby, it's a wild world....

A bit late in posting this news ......... My brother graduated high school!
It was June 18th to be exact so yes, I'm a bit delayed in sharing the awesome news.

Very exciting and very emotional time! I think I may have been the only in the family who was choked up. Either that, or maybe I couldn't tell the difference between sweat and tears. It was held in the gymnasium because the principal thought that rain was coming.. It didn't but it was still held in there anyway. And it was SUPER hot that day. They actually brought in bottled water to sell.

It was a nice ceremony and I'm happy for my brother.. Hard to believe that he is already 18 and going out into the world as an adult. He's not a little boy anymore. *sniff*

If you're reading this ... and you remember Ben as a baby/little boy... here is a picture of him NOW.

Where did the weekend go?

Back home, after our weekend in Ocean City. Back to all of the REALITY. Back to the loads of laundry awaiting us, the house to tidy up, and alas; all the drama that has become my life. (our life).

We had a great few days "down the shore". We ate all the junk we sink our teeth into and really had a great time. Baby M went on so many rides at the kids' amusement pier.. We were really shocked. She's never been a big fan of the rides anywhere.. even carnivals, where my sister has bought armbands on family night, only to leave not having gone on a single ride. We had dinner at the anchorage the first night we got into town and it was really good... we got lucky and were seated on the deck. That place is really happening - I can't remember how long we waited to be seated but it was A LONG TIME.. and with an active 2 year old, it was even longer! She was so well behaved considering how long we waited and how bored she must have been.
We went on the boards a few times, had a visit from another one of Baby M's aunts that she hadn't seen since she was about 6 months old or maybe a year.. so that was really nice! I loved being down there and away from reality for a while... even if only to come back to it today. Life was wonderful!
Have lots of great pictures that I hope to post in the next few days once I get settled with them.

I'll keep this posted limited to just mini-vacation stuff.

On the way to...........

Nope, not Cape May. Ocean City. (NJ)

Gotta go finish my laundry and pack my bag. Yep, just one.
Only going from Friday til Sunday so I need just a few outfits, and the other obvious necessities. I'd like to say I'll be back on Sunday to blog but I'd be lying. There's no way my sister or I could survive without the laptop for 3 days!

Sure, we did it for months before when it was broke but hey, it's fixed!

So anyway, I'm off to pack and tidy up the house before we leave.

I really need this escape! Can't wait to get to Ocean City and relax.
Our room is poolside so that's nice. I don't "do" the ocean so I'll be taking advantage of the pool mostly. I'm off.... gotta go seek out that BIG bottle of sunscreen!!

Updates on Dad -- Part 2 or 3?

I forget which part this is so ............
anyway, Dad's surgery went ok today. It's really hard for me to remember EVERYTHING the doctor said. It's kind of like when someone tells you something and after you heard the part you REALLY wanted to hear, you just daze off. Well it went something like that. We just wanted to know that he was ok and that the surgery was a success. It was and it wasn't. The cardiologist said that the leg they were there to work on was not such a success. I wish I could tell you what the name of the surgery was but I honestly don't know. I've pasted what could very well be the jist of what the hell it is I'm trying to relay here... so please use this link to understand it better.

http://www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=4692


So that "said" or should I say "read"... the left leg was very blocked and the cardiologist couldn't maneuver enough with it to get the "job done". He did say however that the right leg had severe PVD and that he was able to put a stent in there. He thinks that the pain and discomfort my dad has been dealing with, may be alleviated now... then again, it may not. They just have to wait and see I suppose. Ultimately, I think that the doctor thinks that ByPass is the way to go but I think my dad is being a little apprehensive right now. For reasons unknown to us.
He is supposed to come home tomorrow (Tuesday) so we'll see how he feels in the next few days. He needs to take it easy for a while.. and he may be out of work for a while as well. If not indefinitely, which will be a real culture shock for my dad because he has been such a hardworker all his life.

Heart Disease is a really scary thing.. and I've got to stop acting like I'm not susceptible to it. It's hereditary.. but I can take the preventive measures to live a healthy life.
Thanks for checking in and seeing how things went today.. I appreciate everyone's prayers and thoughts.

Updates on Daddy-O

Dad goes in for surgery tomorrow morning. If you read my previous post about his surgery, you'll see that the last appt was canceled. They're going to go ahead with it this time. I tend to wonder if the doctors are that convinced that it is a go, or if my dad is just sick of the pain and discomfort and just wants to get it over with. From the sounds of it; his bloodwork was not all that better in his pre-op tests the other day... so it wouldn't be a total shock if they will not perform the surgery. It is VERY RISKY. I should be scared to death, but for some reason, I'm relaxed about it. Trying to think positive and place it in God's hands. Prayer always gets me through things, so I'm counting on that to help. I will update as soon as I can when things are all over... even if it isn't for a day or two.
I'm off work Monday so I can be there for this... so look for something on Tuesday. But in the meantime, PLEASE SAY A PRAYER.

Summer of '08

It's finally here. Sat June 21st, Summer finally arrived. Could have fooled me; given these EXTREME heat days that we've had in the weeks prior. Not many plans in order yet for this summer but I usually play it by ear anyway. Can't wait to get to the boardwalk! I'm not going to get into a rant about the importance of using sunscreen, even though I was all ready to. I'll just leave it short and sweet..... USE SUNSCREEN! I am a huge advocate when it comes to Sunscreen protection. Trust me, I'm as white as a ghost on my legs, but I'm not taking the chance with that sun. And those aweful tanning beds!!!? No wonder they're shaped like coffins. There's my mini-rant. I'm done. (and just so I'm being honest, I did lay out on the beach, at the pool, on our rooftop one year, and also had some sessions of indoor tanning...in years past. But when things start to show up on your body and you have to go to a dermatologist and get them cut off and biopsied, you start to realize that it's not really worth it anymore.

So anyway - I hope everyone has some great summer plans all laid out.
Make it a summer to remember.. take lots of pictures.
I so need to get my digital camera fixed! It just will not turn on. Any input?

Cody

It is with the HEAVIEST of hearts that I post this farewell to Cody. Our beloved Yorkie. He died on June 9th. I pray that he's in Heaven where he no doubt belongs. He was the cutest and most LOVING dog one could ever ask for. I always told him that I would have to die first, because if he ever died, I'd be crushed - utterly lost without him. And I am. We all are. I'm sorry Cody.
There are people who will NEVER understand the bond that some humans can create with an animal. Cody was so much more than a just a domestic pet... he was a huge part of our family. The running to see him or calling after him when we got home, never got old. It was still as if we just brought him home.. (5 years ago). I love Cody more than I've loved most humans in my life thus far. I'm really sad and angry all at the same time...

Nostalgia

I couldn't resist buying Jiffy Pop yesterday when I was at the grocery store.
I can't speak for everyone; but I think every kid loved this growing up! I know I did... So it only seemed appropriate that I get it and make it a big deal for my niece! She loves popcorn to begin with and Jiffy Pop is one of the coolest ways to go! It seemed like it took longer than it should have, but it turned out perfect. No burning! What fun that was.. My sister and I stood at the stove with my Maya and took turns shaking it "in circular motions"..as noted by the instructions.. Now I want a good old fashioned Pop Corn machine. Our Pop-Pop had one and we LOVED it.


( FYI - I could only steal a few minutes at work to post, so I'll come back later and catch up) ... If it applies - Happy Father's Day!
Extra special "Happy Dad's Day" to Nate Lawrenson. I do believe (and I may be wrong) that this is by far going to be his Favorite Holiday now!

Think happy thoughts

Just trying to catch up on my blog. It's been a while as usual. Just when we got the laptop fixed and had it for a bit, we got yet another virus and it's out of commission again. Sucks big time.. especially when you've got email to check, MySpace to be addicted to, bills to pay, and most importantly BLOGS to update!

This is a really busy month for me... it seems as if all year was pretty quiet, well maybe not with all the things I had going on.. but anyway, back to the busy month of June... My brother graduates this month. I can't believe he's graduating high school.. he's still a little kid in my eyes (sometimes! lol). I know I'll cry at the ceremony, try as I might, to tell myself NOT to; it's just inevitable. We're having a little get together for him and some friends/family on the 21st. Every one gets a graduation party, don't they? That following Monday after the party is my Dad's surgery. Yes, they are going to attempt it again. Well, last time there was no real attempt,since his lab readings weren't desirable. So we need lots of prayers for this one! It's the risky one and I can't help but wonder if my Dad has just decided against Dr's advice to go ahead with it... ?? He's in a lot of pain these days and just can't deal with it anymore. The surgery is supposed to "fix" that. I pray it does. If all goes well, we're set to go to Ocean City for the weekend on 06/27. We've got a place for the 2 nights and we'll stay late into the day on Sunday so not to rush home. It's just the girls... my sisters and I, my mom and my niece. Should be a good time. I'm not a beach gal, I prefer the boardwalk at night and all the lights etc.. My sister is a beach baby and so is my niece. I think I'm just too hyper to lay still for any extended amount of time. Especially as long as most of the beach-goers do! Plus, I'm petrified of sunburn/skin cancer.
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There just seems to be so much going on in my life right now, I don't know if I'm coming or going most days. I've been so pre-occupied, it's starting to affect things even though I'm trying not to let it. It helps that I have been going to the gym 3 or more times a week because it's a chance for me to really work out the stress and I do believe it works. For the most part, it's nothing that I'm willing to talk about at this point, but one day I might share it just to offer some insight.
It's a personal struggle that I've been dealing with a while now, but that I shouldn't be.
I carry the weight of the world on my shoulders and Lord knows I wear my heart on my sleeve, which makes it all the more difficult to hide from those who know me best.
No, this is not a pity party that you missed the invite for! lol
I'm just blogging and getting things off my mind.. isn't that what it's here for?
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Look for updates on Dad's surgery ... I hope to get on here before that and very soon after.

God Bless ~
Dawn

Back again

The last place I want to be updating my blog, all my personal, and inner most thougts from, is work! But sometimes ya gotta do what ya gotta do eh?
The laptop at home is messed up again. Love that thing! (if LOVE constitutes wanting to take a hammer to it!) Just (half) kidding.

So let's see: I can't remember the last time I updated, besides last night, and I don't know if I've posted anything on my dad since then either.

In any case, he still hasn't had the surgery that I mentioned in a previous post. He went to the Hematologist - and now my step mom tells me yesterday that it was decided my dad has Lupus. What?! I don't know if I believe that. It's not one of those classic cases of denial either. I truly don't believe he has it. It just doesn't make sense. I think it's just a combination of things that are giving off bad readings with his lab work. He's on several medications and I can't help but to think that there's just a lot of "confusion" in his body right now. I mean, my dad works at a refinery and has for 30 years. It's company protocol that he gets blood work, chest xrays and regular physical check ups, each year. So to all of a sudden, come out with this Lupus DX, it seems peculiar. As always, my dad's in pretty good spirits, considering all of the pain he's been in. We went over on Memorial Day and I just hated how much discomfort my dad was in. He was determined to play a game of horseshoes and he did! He lasted the whole game. The pain in his legs is caused by the PAD. (Peripheral Artery Disease) ... read about it here... It's not fun. http://www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=3020249

The dr/dr's think that they're going to go in do the surgery in a couple weeks.
(My dad mentioned the date, but I was not focused when he said it, and now I forget). I was too busy still trying to comprehend the LUPUS dx. Before the surgery they're going to treat him with Coumadin again. (Coumadin (warfarin) is used to prevent heart attacks, strokes, and blood clots in veins and arteries). Hopefully, his PTT's are down this time and there will be little or no serious risk when performing the surgery. PTT means Partial Thromboplastin Time. In layman's terms, it refers to the amount of time that your blood takes to clot. My dad's were way too high when he went in on May 8th to have the surgery. That means he could bleed to death, so the cardiologist canceled the surgery and sent him to the hematologist.(blood specialist).. I know that I don't have to put definitions and explanations in here for everyone, but I know it helps for anyone who has no idea what I'm talking about.. and to be honest, it helps me too!

I just don't like the state of health that my dad's in and I wish I could help him feel better. He has his days where he just wants to say forget it all and let things be as they would. I would say "let things be as God wills"... but my dad is not in touch with Faith at all. It was very disheartening, when he was at the hospital and the social worker doing his paperwork, asked which religion he practiced or preferred and my dad answered "I don't have one".

Well, that's the update on my dad so far. I'll keep it all posted. I promise I'll try. I have lots of other things to post, but will do so in seperate post or posts.
I know that this post has gotten long enough. Please keep us in your prayers.
Gotta run - Check back later! I did it for you Shannon! :)


Sorry I can't post any cute icons or clipart this time around.. I can't get on the photobucket site... We have this nifty new spam filter at work (Barracuda) and it blocks A LOT!

GOT FAITH?

Speechless? Doubt it...

I haven't updated in SO LONG, and yet when I finally sit down to try and update, I'm at a loss for words. Huh?
I'm not at a loss for thoughts, just words. I have a zillion things to say - I think that's what's got me in this rut right now; that I have so much on my mind and need to organize it all first. Does this even make sense?



Maybe after I've finished folding a load of laundry and straightened up a bit here, I'll be more efficient.

School "Daze"

After saying I was going to do it for so long; I've finally taken the first steps to going back to school. I took my placement test yesterday... for GCC* (*I'm going out of county because they have the course that I feel is what I'm looking for.

So anyhoo - I take the placement test. It's in 3 parts. Reading, Writing & Math.
Makes sense right? So my scores: 98% Writing. 94% Reading 32% Math.
The 32% does not surprise me. First of all, I was never good, even a little bit, at Math. I despised Math which is probably most of the reason I did so bad. It just didn't interest me. But this test that I took had so many fraction problems that I was supposed to solve.. and truth be told, I don't remember shit about fractions! It probably shouldn't have been difficult but it was. Remember I'm 32 now... So I've been out of school for 14 years! And it didn't help that I totally didn't look at sample questions or even try to brush up on any thing before I took this test.

So on to the 94% (Reading)-- Evidently, according to the way this is scored...I have to take some kind of remedial class for that. I was floored when the girl said that to me! I thought "Good Lord, I'm not going to Harvard!"... You have to get at least a 98 to score sufficiently enough not to take this remedial course.

They have this cool option where you can "challenge" your test scores. For 10 bucks, you can retake any section you want. I'm thinking about it. I think I can do better. As for the math?? I may get in there and do worse! lol
But I think, honestly, that I'll take the Reading test over and see what happens. Heck, if I can get someone to go over some Math with me, I'd consider retaking that section too. It wasn't an hours long test either... There were only so many questions for each of the 3 parts. I finished it in 40 minutes and some seconds... maybe if I'd taken my time, I'd have done better. Who knows?

So anyway - that's my school story. I'm still working on getting all my paperwork in and plan to go see an advisor since I am so CLUELESS about how this all works. I went to Camden County College about 7 years ago and I can remember that I just breezed right in, registered, got all situated with aid and that was it. Now all of a sudden, I feel like I need someone to hold my hand and guide me step by step.

I really want to do this and go back to college.. I have such a strong desire to graduate from college. If for nothing else; for my own self gratification.
I'll try to keep my progress posted and UP TO DATE.

In other news: -- Congratulations Shannon! I knew you'd pass that test. You're on your way. Don't ever stress about tests - you're going to do wonderfully.
It pays to pray! Love ya.

Long time gone.. AGAIN

So how much have I failed to report?

Life is pretty much status quo.. for the most part.


Dad goes in for his surgery this Thursday. Lots of prayers please.
I really hope this works.. He's been in so much pain and so uncomfortable. I really hate to see him like this. This surgery is risky from what they say, so I hope all goes well. I haven't been really stressing about it because I've been really optimistic about it. If Dad's scared or anxious about it, he doesn't let on.
The doctors were going to do this procedure a month or two ago but they didn't because Dad had a blockage in his abdomen and they were afraid if it worked loose, it could be bad. But now that all the meds they've tried haven't worked; they've decided to go ahead with the surgery for his legs.. If I'm getting ahead of myself, just a reminder: My dad has PAD.. (peripheral artery disease).. He had a heart attack on Jan 24th of this year.. 4 days before his 61st birthday. So since then he's been diagnosed with COPD and PAD.

I just want him to feel better already.
I'll update after the surgery.. I hardly get on anymore. I feel like I'm always on the go. I used to update often from work... but now with all the internet monitoring, they've really cracked down on us. Ridiculous - if you ask me.

Thought the week would never end

We just got the laptop back so hopefully I can stay on top of my updates now.

Yesterday at work was really nice! My co-workers got me an Ice Cream Cake, a bouquet of cool balloons (with one that plays music!). I got 2 CD's, a really cute stationary set and a Kohl's gift card! That was all so nice and I didn't expect anything like that.. We always do cake but.. the gifts and balloons were a nice surprise.

I'm spending the day with my niece today... I have a dentist appt at 11 but I have my aunt going with us so she can sit with her while I'm in with the dentist.

I'm just getting my stitches out from my last procedure. Sounds like way too much fun eh?

Well now that I can update (hopefully regularly) I won't write a book-long post here.

Have a Wonderful Weekend!!

~32~

Ahem - In case you didn't know, this is my birthday week!

Well, ok, no one really makes it a week-long celebration but... my birthday is Saturday. Thirty-two years. Each year, I say I'm going to make some grand plan to change my life in some way and this year I just made a plan to live healthier and I think I've done pretty darn well so far. I've lost some weight, started eating healthier... laughed a lot more, taken more chances (within reason, of course) and lived a little more. It's amazing how the years go by... just when you thought that these years would never get here. I can remember wanting nothing more as a child, than to be an adult. Now I have days where I realize what everyone meant when they said "don't wish it away". I guess it's much the same how I can see my niece growing so fast every day. One day I was asking when she'd start talking or walking and now she's grown so much, I miss the days of her being an infant. You sit back one day and just can not figure out when certain events came and went or where the time went. That's why I don't want to have regrets. I want to live life to the fullest. I don't want to sit back anymore and say "I wish I'd done....." or "I wish I said....."

So, Saturday the plans are to go to Atlantic City, and party party party!
We're going to the Quarter in The Tropicana. It's always a good time! My sister and I go there every couple of months for a Girls Night Out and we have such a good time. Karaoke is always a good time - seeing all those drunk people get up to sing with the confidence that only comes with a good round of shots and plenty of beers.
There's never a dull moment - from beginning to end.

I'll update with details and pics on Sunday I'm sure.

Long time gone...

In yet another attempt to update the software on my BlackBerry Pearl, what better way to pass the time than to get on with the updates. Jeez, I haven't been on since like March 24 or something like that. Love to say that many exciting things have happened since then, but nope.

I just read Nate's blog, (for those of you who know who he is) .. and I literally gasped when I read that Tricia had her double lung transplant! I missed going on for ONE day and I miss the most important update! Please pray for everyone - (including the donor's family). I pray that Tricia "accepts" the lungs and there are no signs of rejection. I trust that God is on their side.

So, my birthday is this month. Yep, going to be 32. I feel like I'm still 25 sometimes. Age, after all, is only a number. I'm trying to plan a night out in A.C. with family and friends and I hope it all comes together and everyone comes out for a night of fun. I know 32 is no significant birthday but who needs a milestone birthday to celebrate? Jeff is turning 40.. So I'm working on getting something together for that as well. Any ideas - throw them at me!

I can't get on here as much as I'd like anymore.. The laptop is still down and being looked at. And turns out that we can't get on a lot of the sites we were used to at work. The IT dept has been making a real stink and they're "watching" us. So we had some non-chalant pep talk from our manager about personal sites, etc... etc..
MySpace was mentioned more than once, so that is a big no-no. That's a tough one.. I told my manager I'd prefer they just block it entirely because I have no self control with MySpace! hahaha.. But really, I'd rather not be able to access things like that and Blogger because I'm not real keen on corporate seeing what I write etc etc.. I mean, yes, Blogger is there for the world to see but it's just the whole idea that we're being "tracked". It's creepy. But it's company policy - we know the rules and we must abide by them.

Well, tomorrow begins my two days off. What to do? Maybe just hang around the house and watch movies. Trying to save money. Evidently my car needs brakes. It's shaking when I start to brake. Not a good thing. I've always said I wish I had connections with a dentist, mechanic and doctor. Seriously.

Making Strides

I'm working on getting things together with this .. and I'm happy to report that I've already seen some involvement with it and a lot of interest from my friends.

Thank you Amy for passing the word around...I hope it encourages people to sign up and walk.
Thanks Shannon for being the first one - EVERY TIME- to commit and want to do your part.

I know it's in May and it seems far away but before we know it, it'll be here.
This year is flying by... nonstop, no layovers!


I'm really looking forward to making this a success.

Delayed Reaction

I can't believe I'm just now remembering that we went to Sesame Street Live!

It was 3 weeks ago but it was so much fun! --
Of course I was welling up with tears when it first started, because it seems everything that I end up doing for the first time with my niece, that's a real Kodak memory, I usually cry. What a sap I am! Just like when we went to Johnson's Farm last summer and Maya was picking blueberries. It's an inside joke with me and my sister now, but we both had a good tear-jerking that day! It all started when I said that I'd hoped I'd "have that memory forever"... and it was all downhill from there!

Back to Sesame Street Live with Elmo:
It was a really great time - I enjoyed and so did Maya and my sister. I was really captivated by the performance of all the Sesame Street characters... there were so many kids at this I was overwhelmed by little people! lol

Some kids started to get a little antsy after a while because they'd sat long enough and were ready to go, so that was cute to watch too. A couple kids were really into it at some points would run toward the stage! I had mentioned to my sister how funny it was that there were actually guards sitting on chairs at the stage... and I'd remarked that it was somewhat like a concert.. only that I'd hoped no kids would rush the stage and start a mosh pit to the tune of Rubber Ducky~

Making Strides

I just created a team on the Making Strides site... For Cystic Fibrosis.
Please join me, and sign up to be walker, or prayerfully consider making a donation.

As you've read before, I've been keeping up with this blog:
(http://cfhusband.blogspot.com/) and one of the latest posts Nate made was about the Making Strides Walk. I'm always looking for a way to raise awareness, whether through literature or "walks" like this one.

I want to do my part for CF this way. I've created the team name under 65 More Roses... in honor of Tricia, who I don't even know personally, but feel as if I do.
(Please note: I'm awaiting permission from Nate, before I confirm that as the team name... so it may in fact change. If you're registered as a walker, you will be notified of the name change.)


I hope to get a lot of involvement from all my friends and family. I tried this with the Leukemia and Lymphoma walk last year and only got literally ONE registered walker who actually showed up and/or raised money. A bit discouraging but I'm not one to give up.

Here is the link to my page:

http://www.cff.org/Great_Strides/dsp_DonationPage.cfm?walkid=5464&idUser=232456

Update on Dad

I was WAY surprised but thrilled to learn that my dad is going back to work on Monday!
I spoke with him last Friday - he was heading out to go bowling! I didn't realize he was in as good a shape as he apparently is. He has resumed bowling on his league and is really anxious to get back to work. For several reasons I imagine.

So that's great news!!

Still unclear on what the deal is with the blockage they found in his stomach but I trust that the cardiologist and his PCP are dilligent in getting that resolved.

So, that's that latest on Dad - Thanks for all the continued prayers.

Prayers

Added to my long list of people & things to pray for....

Nate, Gwyneth, Tricia - Yes, I'm obsessed with the blog like the rest of the world. LOL
Cody - My favorite furriest "person" in the world (DX with diabetes)
Princess - (my furry niece who I've yet to meet, but who is very sick)
John - co-worker with terminal cancer. One of the nicest, happiest people I have ever met. Just a wonderful being.
My Niece - (as always) but please say some extras for her.. Her surgery is the Monday after Easter.

• Nate, Gwyneth, Tricia - Yes, I'm obsessed with the blog like the rest of the world. LOL
  
• Cody - My favorite furriest "person" in the world (DX with diabetes)
  
• Princess - (my furry niece who I've yet to meet, but who is very sick)
  
• John - co-worker with terminal cancer. One of the nicest, happiest people I have ever met. Just a wonderful being.
  
• My Niece - (as always) but please say some extras for her.. Her surgery is the Monday after Easter.
  

Cody Update

Well,the lab results are back and apparently my furry nephew has diabetes. He had all the symptoms now that we think about it,...so there's no denying it, but I wish the doctor was wrong I guess.
They think it's Stage II, and they're almost positive that none of his organs were affected by it. So I pray to God that is the case. My sister goes to the vet tomorrow to get the results and more detailed specifics in person... Doc says he'll probably have to get insulin. Eeek!! I can't imagine having to do that every day... Poor Cody. Hopefully we can do better with his diet and cut out a lot of the junk he already eats, which includes a majority of "people food" and TONS of treats each day. I know he'll be ok... I'm just a little sad that we found this out.

Updates

My dad went in for his surgery (stent/stents) this past Monday ..
He was at the hospital a long time waiting to be taken back for his procedure. Waiting is such a nasty word! :)
There was an emergency they had to take before him, which is totally understandable. (and I hope that person fared well with his/her surgery).
Long story short, when he did get back to have it done, they (doctor) found that he has a blockage (blood clot) of some sort in his stomach. My sister (RN) says that it is most likely what's called an Aortic Aneurysm. The end result: they can not do the procedure because of the blockage. From what I understand he'll continue to take the blood thinners in hopes of clearing that out, at which time they can go in and put the stent in. The good news is that the doctor told my dad that his arteries are "re-routing" themselves. Almost "repairing" themselves..????? Is that nothing short of a miracle? I think so. For anyone who is keeping up and trying to follow me with my dad's progress, I'm sorry that my details/info are sometimes vague. It's so much clearer when you're actually standing in the room listening to the doctor while he's telling you specifics & details. I'm getting most of this secondhand so I post what I can remember and explain that which I'm capable of. Please continue to pray for my dad. I believe that prayer is very powerful and yes, I speak from experience. I was really stressing the other day when I heard about my dad's newest feat, and I felt like I was really starting to crumble... feeling so overwhelmed with his state of health these days, and what seems to be so "all of a sudden" and so much to take in. Fortunately, besides my sister and Jeff, I have some great friends who more than go out of their way to provide me the support I so often require! :) Thank you Carol & Shannon for truly being there for me. I appreciate your friendship in these times, and ALWAYS.

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In other (cardiac) news. My sister's father in law (Joe) is home from the hospital and on the mend. He's in good spirits and recuperating nicely. Continued prayers for him as well.

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Hope everyone is having a great week - I hope to update again this week before SUNDAY, like I usually have to opt for.

I almost forgot - Cody (my furry nephew) is headed to the Vet today to get checked out.. Hopefully he just has a minor UTI or something.. He's been having some incontinence issues (which, with the exception of an accident or two) is very unlike him..especially in the excess that it's been. I hardly post pics of my niece because I'm neurotic about that, but here's a shot of Cody when he was still a puppy... He looks fake!

Another ride on the rollercoaster anyone?

Wow! So many things can happen in such a short amount of time. If I blogged every day like I wish I could commit to, I would have a lot of posts on here.

On Friday, my sister's Father-in-law (yes, she's soon to be divorced but I don't like to say "former" father-in-law or "soon-to-be-ex" father-in-law)had by pass surgery. It was supposed to be Quadruple and ended up being 5 instead. What do call that? I guess, Quintuple ByPass. I have to check into that and revise if necessary.
Anyway, from what my sister tells me, he's recovering nicely. Still in the hospital and will be for some time I expect. He's breathing on his own, which I know is always a plus and some evidence that your body is reacting well to the procedure, considering the trauma your body has just endured physically. I find it so ironic that only in January my own dad was going through this. I've had some ill-will towards Joe (father in law) as a result of some hard feelings or whatever which naturally involved my sister.. and I found myself, this weekend, praying for him and asking God to watch over him. I've asked Him to forgive me for those thoughts and feelings I had about this man and instead to bless him. I hope that Joe comes out of the hospital with a new lease on life and lives a long and prosperous life.

As for my dad,{see previous posts to bring you up to this point}, he is going in on Monday to have another stent put in. It seems that the PAD (peripheral atery disease) is really affecting his left leg. He was or is losing circulation to his feet and because of this, naturally, the blood flow is not getting to them. Which can lead to other things. I also learned, while talking with him about the surgery, that he has COPD. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, which I knew very little or nothing about until now. It's amazing how much you just don't know about diseases/conditions that you hear of every day, until you actually are or know someone who is afflicted with such. I've started to really worry about my dad now. Not that I didn't when it all happened or even before.. but I just feel like everything's going wrong with him. Not just now going wrong, I suppose it's all been going wrong. I'm praying so much when I go to bed at night, I feel like I should go earlier just to get through my prayers of people I'm praying for. (chuckle) It was pleasing to see that my dad was in good spirits and half-joking about some of the idea of the next surgery and showing me the "neat" little gadget that he uses for the COPD each day.
I have to wonder if that's how he's dealing with it: by joking and being light hearted about everything. If that works for him, then so be it. I'd rather not see him upset about things and fretting over it, even though every part of me knows that inside he must be scared shitless.
So, just some more things that really make you sit back and thank God for another day.

Hot Fudge "Sunday"

Yep, it must be Sunday. That seems like the only time I get to blog anymore.
The laptop is still on the mend.. or not on the mend? I'm at work and it's so quiet right now. The phones are calm, (knocking on wood and typing at the same time!). My work week has started (yuck) but I'm off on Tuesday. I decided I needed a day off, too bad it's midweek and then I have to come in on Wednesday but nonetheless I'm taking it! I saw that it's going to rain on Tuesday which kinda stinks but then again, a rainy day off from work is better than a Sunny day at work~ No? We have a vacation freeze from March 5th to the 18. Which is funny because I'm off the day before it starts and then 2 days after it's lifted! I didn't know that employers could do that but ok.
I'm a bit irritated with work and the things that are going on here. I can't even begin to start telling the long OR short of it.. because it's not able to be summarized really. Let's just say that ETHICS comes to mind, and ROMPER ROOM does too.

My sister found out that my niece DOES need to get tubes for her ears. :(
She's had so many ear infections already just in this year.. and several last year. So the docs determined that the tubes is definitely something she needs. I know my sister is on the edge of her seat and really upset about it, but in the end, it's going to be a plus for my Baby M because she really needs this. It will prevent future ear infections and we know what comes with those: PAIN. I know she'll be fine but I have no idea what it's like to be a mommy and fear for your child. You don't ever want them in pain, or to hurt physically OR emotionally. Heck, I'm just her aunt and I have such a bond with her, so I can imagine what my sister feels like.
So, that said; I ask that you pray for my niece, that her surgery goes well and that this turns out to be a fruitful procedure.

Still working on finding a new song for my page.. It takes a lot of thought for me.
I'm such a perfectionist.

Snowed in

Well, not really... It's all melting and hopefully not icing up.
Maya (my niece) and I are spending the day together... Not been real productive as of yet.. she is tired as heck, so as soon as she goes down for a nap, I'm getting my cleaning on! Have a ton of laundry to do and lots of straightening.

Went and shoveled the walk this morning and was quite annoyed that one of our lovely neighbors shoveled the whole sidewalk from the corner to a few inches before our doorstep.. that was pretty shitty. They made sure that they cleared all of the 3 other neighbors walks and stopped RIGHT at ours. I can't figure people out sometimes and I have no idea why they would do that... but, WHATEVER!
So, since I know which neighbor had a hand in it, my revenge is to not patronage their little coffee shop anymore. It'll make me feel better! lol

Not blogging much - Just checking in since I haven't in a few days.
Still keeping up with Nate's blog.. and it looks like things are progressing, slowly but well. Still praying for them each night. I included several people in my prayers last night... more than usual. Prayed for Amy and her family to settle nicely in their new home. I wish them lots of love and new memories in thier new place.

I just learned that My Chemical Romance is coming in May and I have to go! I have been waiting to see them again since the last time I saw at what I think was the Warped Tour. They're awesome. Tickets are on sale on Saturday @ 10 so I'll be sitting here at the computer ready to take aim when they release them!

Well, I think I smell a strange but familiar scent coming from Miss Maya so I'm off to assume my Auntly Duties ..(since she assumed her "dooties"...)

Have a Nice Weekend!

Doing the Bump!

One of the snazzy things I learned on Blogger, is the cool art of "bumping"...
If you don't know what that means, it just means that I'm taking an earlier post from my blog and bumping it to the top... to bring it to light.

So I decided to bump this entry that I posted in February of '06.
It was actually a follow up to a post from the month before (January of '06)

I know that Shannon, my friend whom I refer to in it, reads my blog regularly but only as of recently ...

Shannon: I know you read my blog often but I didn't know if you'd ventured into the archives and saw this one.


Wednesday, February 08, 2006

well, I said in an earlier post in January, that I hoped I could meet back up with some long lost friends from high school. Turns out I did just that. And it happened to be the one person in particular that I really wanted to get in touch with. Only about a month ago, our class president and some other members of the committee, started contacting the Class of 1994- through Classmates.com -- Our president created a website of his own so that we didn't have to use Classmates and we were all able to go on there and post forums and such-- and leave our email addresses if we so desired.. Well I am so glad that I posted mine, because that is how my long lost friend Shannon got in touch with me. She emailed me and then eventually we talked on the phone. It was so nice to talk to her after 12 long years! It felt like we hadn't missed all that time, but we did. I sure missed her, and I had mentioned to my sister a short while ago that if I wanted to reconnect with anyone, it would be Shannon. We were really good friends in high school- the later years. And I'm not sure how we got so close but we just clicked. I've been really down lately wondering how to catch up with old friends and seem like a whacko, since we hadn't talked in forever and then I'm popping up in an email or a letter to their home. So this has sure brought me some contentment. We both said that we should not lose touch this time and I hope we don't. It's really never too late to catch up. It will take a lot of catching up, I'm sure. But for the most part, we covered the basics already.

Giving it to God

I'm so content this morning...

Each night when I go to bed, I say my prayers, and often include a request for someone else other than the usual: friends and family. Last night I prayed for someone who has been really hurtful to someone I love. I asked God to guide her to a more positive way of life and to lead her to happiness & contentment in her life. I tend to think she acts the way she does and treats people so terribly, because of all the negatives in her life. I could be wrong. But in any case, I'm proud of myself that I was able to turn my anger/animosity into a positive. I gave it to God and I feel better about not "hating" her but choosing to ask God to bless her.

Looking for my place

If you haven't noticed; I have background music on my blog now... and usually I choose a song that goes along with the theme of "life". This time around I chose a song that was a good soundtrack to how I've been feeling lately.

I'm struggling to find lately; what exactly it is that I'm supposed to be doing with my life. I feel so lost these days & I can't figure out what I want out of this life.
I KNOW that I want to go back to school and I KNOW that I want to do something with my life that defines me.. but I just don't know what it is. Everyone asks the same question: " Well what is it that you like or that you want to do?" .... I can't even answer that question. Is that pathetic? I know my current job is a good one, and that there are so many reasons why I should stay... but in my heart, I feel like there is something out there that I'm meant to do. I've always said that I wanted to have a career that was rewarding... and not in the way of material things, but in the way that I can come home each day and rest assured that I've made a difference somewhere. I've gone back & forth with the idea of maybe becoming a nurse, or a social worker. I know that they're not easy jobs to assume but I'd be willing to work hard at what I do. For so long, I was set on becoming a Medical Secretary and staying on the "other side" of the desk, but now I'm not so sure that I'd be content in that position. I wish I could go to a life coach or something. I know that no one can really sit down and say "Dawn, this is what you want to do"... I just need help figuring it out I guess. I'm going to be 32 in April, and it's totally unacceptable to me, to be in this "place" in my life. I find comfort, sort of, knowing that I'm not the only person in this rut.. but that doesn't make it any less of a worry. I honestly don't know where to begin to figure it out. I keep remembering Father O'Donnell stressing that God put us all here for a reason and I believe that I have a "task" or a purpose, (better words)... Maybe if I pray to God and ask Him to show me, I'll receive my answers. Whether it will be a piece of mail that comes or some other message I receive.
I just don't like the uncertainty of not knowing what I want to do with the rest of my life, career wise... But I am determined to figure that out.


Yick, what a boring & blubbering blog...!! But I feel much better now that I've got it off my chest!

Calgon take me away

I've been trying to plan our vacation for this year. Jeff and I are both taking a full week (I get 10 days, he gets 5) ... and we're definitely set on going away. Not just taking a day trip here or there, but we want to actually go somewhere. I can honestly say that I haven't been on a vacation in ages! I've done a couple days at the shore here and there but never actually went somewhere other than that.
I ordered a Tennesee visitors' guide last year and then I just got a Virginia visitors/vacation guide in the mail. We've been leaning towards maybe going somewhere in VA, but I'm still researching and trying to figure out where exactly we want to land and what we'll do. There are several places that spark my interest. Jeff really likes the history side of what VA has to offer. He would really like the Civil War attractions. I know I have to get it planned soon so we can reserve a place to stay. I figure we'll go for a few days and then use the other 2 to either take a day trip or just be lazy and hang around locally.
I'll continue to work on making the plans and setting up the itinerary... for some odd reason, Jeff lets me do that part!

Trying to catch up

I haven't posted since Sunday! What is the deal!?
This is why I need a laptop. I get so paranoid at work that people are always looking over my shoulder or walking by and seeing my screen, so I rarely blog at work. This sucks the most because it's always during the day that my thoughts are the "freshest".. Oh well, I'll just have to try and remember things.
While it's fresh on my mind, I was excited to learn last night that Renee is coming 'home' for a visit! Already put in for a vacation day at work. So that way I'll have 3 days off... so we're getting our thoughts together and figuring out what to do. Probably a night at the casinos. Moreso to go out on the town, not so much for gambling. Neither of us are big into gambling, and I know for me at least, I usually stop at $40 and on a rare occassion have gone an extra $20. I don't know why I'm thinking it, but I think Renee hasn't been home in 2 years. I remember for my 30th birthday she was here but I don't remember after that. In any case, I'm glad she's coming - I'm looking forward to spending time with her. We've been friend since Kindergarten. Can you imagine a friendship spanning that many years already.. To think that when we're 60, we'll be saying the same thing! lol

In other news, I hope this day's over soon and even better when the week is!
I'm pissed off today and it involves work so I need to get out of here.

The weekend? You mean It's over?!

Kinda bummed that I didn't make my weight watchers weigh in on Friday. Slept in a little and then went to Olde City with my two favorite girls! Maya had her first ride on the train.(Speedline)... it was really cute. I think she liked it. I only say "think" because she didn't really express her feelings about it either way. It was way too cute how she held onto the seat in front of her.. we got pics! I'll post as soon as I can get them on the computer. We went into Olde City to get lunch at Pizzicato (Yum! Our fav place) and then we went into the Constitution Center Gift Shop to get Maya a souvenir of her first trip to Philly! We even made one of those cool pennies in that nifty machine that they have where the penny comes out all stretched?? Do you have any idea what I'm talking about?

Saturday was a lazy day for me... Well, not lazy, but I did nothing but wash pretty much. I ran to the deli and got some cold cuts for lunch and concentrated on getting the mountainous load of laundry done. Jeff and I went to Chester (casino) on Saturday night -- I was winning. Not much. But I came home with nothing. I was up $45 on a penny machine, which wasn't bad.. last time I was at $75 which is even better!
So yes, back to work. I've laughed a lot today. I don't know if I'm just tired and giddy or what, but I've been really releasing some endorphins today! Good for me.

Following up

Just following up on my previous post about my dream. I know, if you read that post, that you probably were very curious to hear about it. So first I'll tell you that, lately (more so now than ever), I've been putting a lot of thought into the idea of my never having children. I think the dream came about as a result of me talking to my friend Renee about it. We were discussing "things" and she asked if I could even have children, based on what I was telling her. The answer, I suppose, is not a simple NO. With all of today's alternatives for conception, I'd be lying if I said I "couldn't" have children. Can I have them naturally? That would be a simple NO. My OB-GYN and I have discussed it, not at great lengths I'll admit.. but she had said if I did want to get pregnant someday, she'd refer me to a specialist who deals with fertility and all that good stuff. Evidently, I'm not equipped. I haven't gotten to the bottom of what it exactly is that I'm "lacking" per se, but the bottom line is that something is not working or producing correctly. While I can't remember the entire place or subject of the dream, what I do remember so vividly about the dream is that I was sobbing and "begging" God to please give me a child. It was so sad in the dream, I can still see my face. Talk about sadness. I guess maybe as my 32nd birthday nears, I've had the tendency to dwell on the issue a little more. I've always wanted to be a mother.. but in my heart of hearts, even when I was younger and had none of these female issues, I had the strongest feeling that I wouldn't ever have children. I thought back then, that I was just going through the old "too good to be true" phase but now I wonder if I just knew something. I don't talk about it much, other than with my closest friends and Jeff, but it does in fact bother me. Depresses me even. I've always felt like I have what it takes to be a mom, everyone tells me that I do. But I know it. It's the one thing that I'm confident in, if nothing else. I've always wanted that bond, and that love that comes along with a child. I think about all the things I'll never experience. Childbirth, birthdays, school days, and just your every memories. A miniature me.. a little boy or girl that looks just like me or just like his/her daddy. Scrapbooks, lockets of hair, fingerprints/footprints, someone calling me "Mommy", Cheerios invading the floors of my car......
Jeff can say what he wants, but I know that he always thought about children before I came along, and probably had every intention/dream of being a father one day. Not that I should worry about it, but sometimes I wonder if others wonder why I haven't had any children, or if I don't want children, etc.. etc.. If they only knew.

I wonder if they see the car seat in my car and figure that I've got kids...


I often say that if I won the lottery, the first thing I'd do is adopt a child. Well, after I bought a big ass house! lol
I don't want anyone to feel sorry for me - These are just my very personal thoughts on a very personal issue. And it's been eating at me for some time.
Then, Jeff was talking to his friend's wife the other day and when he told her we'd been together 7 yrs almost, she said "Wow! You two need to have kids!"....
If she only knew.

What the hell did I eat going to bed!!??

Had such a peculiar dream last.. Not really up to posting all the details right now but I will. This will serve as a reminder when I see this post again.

It might even have been borderline dream/nightmare. And as with any dream, when I awoke, I tried to figure out what thoughts or events led to that dream - I remembered soon after searching my mind.

****************************************************************

I'm disappointed that I didn't post yesterday! I had so many thoughts racing through my mind yesterday - what better time to blog! But I was so busy at work I just didn't get a minute to do it. This is why I need a laptop. I can write on my breaks/lunch hour at work, I could write while I'm sitting in bed at night. Now I can hardly remember ALL of what I wanted to post yesterday - of course one of the subjects that stands out, is the one that brought on that very strange dream. I guess it wasn't "strange" per se, but it was deep. If that makes any sense.

Well, back to work for me. I'm over the hump! Thursday can not get here and over soon enough. Tomorrow, I'm doing movies & dinner with a friend from work. That's always a nice release. Boy, can we women talk forever!

Weight Loss Ticker

This post is strictly for Weight Loss updates...



Feel free to post comments... this is where I'll keep track!

Life is precious.......

I posted this link on MySpace and forgot to put it in here...

If you have already heard about Nate's blog, then you know all about Baby Gwyneth.... If not, copy the link and get to know Nate, Tricia & Gwyneth.

I'm calling special attention to the video he posted of him holding his baby girl .... for what was the real first time!

It's not like the tears that you cry when you watch a sappy love story; this is REAL LIFE and it's the most endearing thing I have probably ever witnessed.

http://cfhusband.blogspot.com/

Carl Sandburg:
A baby is God's opinion that the world should go on.

First Flyers Game!

Jeff and I went to the Flyers game last night. It was my first.

We had 3 Box Club or (Club Box) tickets that his brother-in-law offered us, so that was really nice! Jeff's been wanting to go to a game - he's a big fan. We ended up taking his dad and I think he enjoyed the game too!

It was pretty neat.. not as exciting as football ( I went to my first f/b game with my sister in December). I liked the idea that with these seats, there is a bar right behind you and you have your own "room" and bathroom, and they even have servers. The walk up to our seats on the Club Level was crazy! We passed all of these delectable food and dessert carts! It was like a fancy hotel on this floor. We passed all these box seats and suites.. it was like something out of a movie!
Once you turn your order in for food, they bring it to your seat. But I have to say that the food was less than desirable - which really aggravates me considering the prices! And on top of it, they were ice cold!
We paid $21 for 2 hot dogs and a cheeseburger. The "jumbo" dogs came with nothing that they were supposed to.. But I didn't bother giving the server any grief over it... It was a nice time all in all & Jeff ended up getting a nice Flyers shirt for $25 which I thought was pretty good...

Just when we were having fun and enjoying the game -- they showed a video of this family whose little boy was being honored and given a Flyers Jersey. Evidently, they have (or had- and I use that term lightly) 3 children. One of their 2 sons was diagnosed with an unknown immune system disorder and sadly he died... now the 2nd son has it as well and is going or has gone blind.
It was so sad ... they introduced them and then after the video they put them on camera and presented the jersey to them.. the little boy came out with a surgical mask on .. So to prevent germs etc.. How precious he was.. but it just wrenched my heart out to hear their story and see them there with this precious little angel.
I didn't know how to get back in the swing of all the excitement after that!
I was saying to Jeff that it was so ironic that both boys had been diagnosed with the disease but I wondered aloud why the little girl hadn't. Jeff turned around to me in his most serious face/tone and said "Well, just thank God that she wasn't".
I can't imagine how they dealt with losing a child the first time and I pray that they don't have to go through it again.

I did it -- AGAIN

Finally went and joined Weight Watchers (again). I went during the open hours, so I got to just go in, pay my "first meeting" fee and get weighed in.

I weighed in at 176. (Yes, unlike most women, I have no qualms telling you all how much I weigh! lol) I figure it's no big secret.. you can see me by looking at me anyway.
So I'm at 17% my target weight... which should be about 145. It shouldn't be so hard cause God knows it's easy to GAIN that much but it's much harder to lose!

So anyway, I'm giving it another go and I hope to reach my goal weight this time.
I'll add even add a ticker so I can update it each week!



(this is the ticker - but I'll create a post all it's own so I can update from there each week)

If you are looking to lose weight - I definitely recommend Weight Watchers.. I was vert satisfied when I went before... The meetings are your support system and they really are what keeps me interested. I know a few people who have gone the WW way and they look great! Yay, Carol!!

So I'll keep you up to date on things and progress.
I hope to be able to use this one soon:
Wish me luck!!