France 10/14/14

Tuesday, 10/14/14

We continued our French adventure today by leaving Caen and heading to see the D-Day beaches. We saw Gold beach at Arromanches first - there wasn't much resistance in thee battles on these beaches because the paratroopers had landed earlier and handled much of the battle.   The little village was quaint and it was interesting to see.   The beach itself was pristine and I would have enjoyed taking a jog on it - there was a sheer mountain that met the ocean, the sky was pink and well it was peaceful.

There is also still concrete out in the ocean that they made in England and floated over here to serve as a makeshift port until a city could be taken that had a port ... think of all that had to go into that planning?    12 countries working together to plan one surprise attack on one day - 12 countries (American, Britain, Canada, Poland, France, Australia, Belgium, Czechoslovakia, Greece, New Zealand and Norway)   Today they can't even make a decision about if the sky is blue.

We then went to the American Cemetery in Normandy - American soil and a honor to visit.   10,000 American lives lost during WWII, the crosses representing the dead, some named, some not.  It was sobering and humbling.  Its so easy to take our freedom for granted, but in the end Freedom is never free.   To think what would have happened if Hitler had not betrayed Russia and he wasn't divided on the two fronts, or if he had heard about the landing before noon that day?    So many little things that made our victory possible, little things that had they not happened the war would have been very different.  

We then went to Omaha beach where roughly 1,500 of our men died within minutes and hours of landing.  The tanks they were supposed to hide behind sank due to the rough seas and they were little target practice for the Germans.  To sit and look on those pristine beaches, so pretty today and to know that 70 years ago they ran red with the blood of American Soldiers fighting for someones right to be free, or even more their right to live.    Very humbling.   I'm not really a history buff, museums in general are not my thing and I tune out much of the history lectures, but standing there you could not help but imagine.     There are still German bunkers in France, one of which can be seen at Omaha beach... relics of the war can still be seen here and there, but overall if not for the memorials you would just see a beach.   A pristine beach made for walking and enjoying the crisp air off of the sea.

We then went to Sainte-Mère-Église.   It is a little village inside of Normandy France and is best known because John Steele parachuted down and landed on the church steeple - he pretended to be dead for 2 hours in order to survive and was later taken hostage.     The stained glass of the church is neat in that it is the Virgin Mary surrounded by paratroopers.     Overall the village is tiny and cute.  We ate at a little restaurant - Mama and Jack had a ham sandwich and I had lasagna.   It was very American, but after not eating very much breakfast this morning we were all hungry.

A few things that were mentioned from a historical point of view that I want to remember so I am including them here:

• Germany, while the bad guys in the WWII events it is important to remember that many German soldiers were not there by choice, but were there to avoid being killed themselves by Germany.
• The first victims of Hitler were Germans themselves.
• Russia lost by far the most people in the war - 20,000,000
• In total the war cost the world 2.5% of its population or 60,000,000 - 85,000,000 people estimated.
• One of the famous french actresses fell in love with a German and was put on trial - I loved her come back "My heart is french, but my ass is international"
• Germany actually elected Hitler to be it's leader - he told them what they wanted to hear.  Be careful with your vote, it has great power!

After we finished up with the D-Day visits we took a hour and half drive through the gorgeous countryside to Mont St. Michel.   I absolutely love this place - it was my favorite from my previous visit and so far it still is.  I was so happy to get to share it with my family.

It is a monastery that was built due to a dream a monk was given my the Arch Angel Michel - he supposedly put a hole in his head as proof he wanted him to build the monastery on top of the mountain.   Thus the monastery was built.   We took the walk up the mountain (lots of steps) and saw the various private homes (47 people live on the island itself), the walkways etc...  Mama actually made it up all the steps, I was so proud of her.  Last time I came we didn't go to see the private homes and I didn't know about the steps - we had gone up the walkway where all the shops were, so I was expecting her to have to do that climb, but she did it and enjoyed one great view because of it.

We had a tour guide that went on and on a little too much for my taste and I really wanted Mama and Jack to enjoy the shopping so we left her about 3/4 of the way through the tour and headed out on our own.    The building served as a monastery for years, then a prison and now it is a monastery and a tourist attraction.   The monastery itself is impressive, but it is also cold and damp.     I love some of the architecture and certainly appreciated it more as an adult, but I had seen enough.

The walk down is filled with shops of various types and restaurants.   Last time I came they had more vendors on the streets, but we were here during the busy season and now it is slow for them, but it was still fun and quaint.   I just enjoy the feel of the village and meandering in the shops.   I was looking for a picture frame but no such luck.  Maybe the next city will have one for Mt. Saint Michel, Lord knows Mt. Saint Michel had plenty of Paris stuff.  I found it humorous.

The monastery on the mountain with the shops and other buildings going up to it looks like a Disney castle or something from Harry Potter.   I just love it, I love the feel of it, the history and the ambiance.   It was different that I remember from my youth, but I still loved it!

We then came back to the hotel and met with the group to have dinner.   We ate at a restaurant across the way and had a five course meal.  It was good but not my favorite one here by any means..  Menu below for memory sake:

1. Cider Again - still taste like bear, hee.
2. Appetizer - some little bread things with cheese and etc... in them.  Maybe Mini Keeshess?
3. Salad Appetizer - beats, cucumbers, and some other stuff I tried and hated. 
4. Pallet Cleaner - A very strong cognac mixed with ice-cream.  Tasted to me like a shot of Seagram Seven Rum, YUCK.
5. Main - Fish and Potatoes.  The fish was dry but the potatoes were excellent
6. Cheese - I gave mine away - Jack seemed to like his.
7. Desert - 3 little varieties.  I liked the apple and the chocolate.  They also had a raspberry thing but it was tart.
8. Coffee - little cappuccino cups but was actually good and very smooth.
9. Desert shot of something liquor wise - I took a taste, not for me.  Too strong and taste like rum.  I like my alcohol fruity with the taste of alcohol hidden.

Once dinner was over Mama left to go back to the room while we were still visiting.   She went the wrong way so Jack went to help her and he had the $$$.   We had bought an extra Coke so I ended up borrowing money from a group member, it wasn't a big deal but I'm sure later it will be funny.   Teach me not to bring my purse!

After dinner we walked down to the boardwalk with the unobstructed view of Mt. Saint Michel lit up.    It was so pretty and the sound of the water hitting the dock was peaceful.   I thoroughly enjoyed it - we played with the camera some.  I didn't have tripod and I shake so mine weren't great, Jack got a few ok ones though.  He used the balcony as a tripod - I'm looking forward to seeing them on a computer screen.  I'm sure they aren't print quality but they will be cool and can show we saw it night.    Side note we had to come back to the room for a battery because the one I had just changed so we would have a full battery died just a few minutes after we started using it. Murphy's law.

I want to go back in the morning before we leave and get some more pictures in the day light.

Now I'm in bed - about to take my medicine (which seems to really be working well).  Tomorrow we go play queen and king in the chateaus :)

Hope all is well in blog land - sleep well!

France 10/13

10/13/2014

Today was good - a short day, which was nice because everyone needed the rest.   We started the morning in Paris and ate the buffet breakfast at the hotel.  It was actually pretty good - after eating breakfast in Italy on our last trip I was worried :)    This was good though and the coffee was good as well - stronger than I normally take it but still drinkable - bonus for Europe!  

After breakfast we headed to the bus and out of Paris.  We went to a town called Rouen - it was very quaint with wood buildings that are built something like I would expect to see in a Dutch area.   Kinda like Helen, GA really - the architectural style, these were just MUCH much older.   This town had a couple of interesting things we saw.

1) Joan of Arc - this was the town she died in.   We saw a church dedicated to her, odd looking building that has alot of symbolism attached to it.  

2) The town has two gigantic gold clocks that have been around for hundreds of years.  You can read more about the here - they were pretty cool, only one still works but still awesome - hundreds of years!

3) There is a church there that is also Notre Dame (my lady) - it was pretty and has a bit of history as Monet used it as subject for several of his paintings.  It is a white church and he used it a study for light and how it plays.  

We then went and had lunch at a French bar and grill.  The waiter was friendly and worked with us on our tight schedule.   I had a veggie and ham pizza - the crust is thinner than what we have in the states, airier, but good and it was big!    Once we finished eating we met back up with the group and headed to the bus.

We went from there to a little village in Normandy called, Beuvron-en-Auge.  It only has 230 people that live there.  It is surrounded by pastor land and was really picturesque.   I loved it - we drank cider made from the field and wondered around.   The cider - reminded me of bear so yuck!  But the town was so quaint - I loved it.

Once we left there we headed to the WWII museum in Caen.   I'm not a big history person, but it was interesting to see WWII from the eyes of the French.  We hear so much history with the American slant, I'm sure the truth is somewhere in the middle.   I made it about 1/2 way through the exhibit and honestly it was sad and I wasn't feeling well so I went out and sat in the cafe.   I ate a chocolate filled croissant and rested while Jack and Mama continued.   I actually enjoyed my time sitting there watching the people and eating my little snack.     

We then headed to the hotel - Hotel Mercure.    Jack went to get me some meds from the neighboring pharmacy while I settled in.   One thing I have learned in France, go to a pharmacy and you get one choice of meds.   Not Sudafed, Tylenol, Etc... - You tell the pharmacist your symptoms, he hands you meds, you leave.  One type of tissue, one type of throat lozenge (and it taste like menthol ass).   That being said I took that pill and within 20 minutes my nose was drying up and I was feeling better so go France.   I may get another box to take home just due to how well it works.

Once I had meds in me and we had rested for a few we went to meet the group for dinner.   Dinner tonight was a simple meal in the hotel - it was actually really good and the company was great.  We set with some people we hadn't really visited with much and the conversation flowed pretty freely - I really enjoyed it actually.   

And now I'm tucked away in my hotel room - just took the nighttime dose of the meds and am about to go to sleep.    My nose may be running away, but I'm enjoying the trip regardless.  Here's to continuing the adventure.

** One thing to add - Jack kept falling asleep on bus and snoring - he may have a bruise from me having to wake him up so much, hee.   Time change is a killer!

Love you blogland - till next time.

France 10/10-10/12

Our First Few Days in France :)

Friday 10/10/14

We got up on Friday and began our adventure to France.  We were packed and headed to Atlanta by 8:30 EST.   The ride to Atlanta was uneventful; I had a conference call for work and read, Jack listened to an audio book and drove, Mama slept.

We got to Atlanta Airport around 12:30 for our 2:30 flight and I have to say it was like the rolled out the red carpet just for us.  The traffic guy or gal – not really sure which she was – was very friendly.  Answered our questions, was patient while we unloaded, etc.   I’ve pulled up before and no more gotten out of the car and they were yelling for us to move, so pleasant surprise.   Then the United baggage agent was extremely nice, the security line was short and we were fast tracked.  We didn’t have to take off shoes or belts and no one dinged – bonus.  Even the food guy at Five Guys was nice, called Mama Sweetheart, it was cute.

Out flight was delayed about an hour, but we still got to Chicago in plenty of time to catch our connecting flight to Paris.   Even boarding the plane went well – they had the zones divided into lines so instead of standing around and then rushing forward when they called your name there was a line –awesome.   We then headed to Paris – flight was roughly 7 hours, Mama and Jack slept through most of it, I only slept a little bit.  Still though overall it was good - we all got to sit together and no one around us smelled bad, you know what I mean… J

We landed in Paris on Saturday 10/11/14 and the adventure officially began.

Saturday 10/11/14

After arriving in Paris we were picked up at the airport and brought to our hotel, Hotel Concorde Montparnasse.  The hotel did not have our rooms ready given how early we arrived so we stowed our bags with reception and went exploring a bit.   Mama got a sandwich at the little grocery shop around the way while Jack looked at the non-electronic map and tried to figure out where to go.  We ended up walking around the corner and having nice view of the Eiffel Tower.  We then strolled the little street and did some window shopping and generally just enjoyed our first taste of the city.   We got back to our hotel around 1:30 and the room was ready so we went upstairs and laid down to get a little rest before the welcome dinner that evening.

I should note we met one couple at the airport who is on our trip – Greg and JoAnne, they are from Chicago and seem nice.  I think she may have had a stroke at one point as she has a slight speech impediment and a limp but I admire her for not letting it stop her from coming and enjoying herself. 

So on with the story – we got up from our little nap and headed down to meet with the tour guide.   He gave us our luggage tags for the trip, introduced himself and off we went to the welcome dinner.   We sat with Deedee and her husband, Jim – DeeDee reminds me a lot of Jean and it appears she loves to travel and shop.  She is always late though. J  Her husband had a stroke 2 months ago and here he is enjoying life – love it.   We also sat with a lady who is traveling alone, her name escapes me at the moment [Name is Cathy, added 10/13/14] , but she is nice and Mama says she reminds her of Laverne.    She works for NBC as an accountant.

Jack talked a lot with Deedee and Jim, and Cathy (the NBC lady) floated between their conversation and the one Mamma and I had with the older couple next to us, Harold and  something… they were friendly and were from Ft. Lauderdale FL.    He is a Dr. 

Overall the dinner was nice (will tell you food details in a moment) and the company good.  The waiter liked to pick on me for ordering coke, not eating all my food, etc...  He made the meal a lot of fun – wish I would have gotten a picture with him.

As far as the food goes – I adventured:

I ate escargot – also known as snails, a beef dish and tiramisu.   Snails weren’t as bad as I imagined, I ate more than one, but I wouldn’t reorder. 
I also tried the pre-wine and the coffee, neither my style. J  

After dinner we took a brief drive around the city to see it while Phillip our tour guided pointed out things about the city.   We saw the Eiffel tower but didn’t get to stop so Jack and I went back after the tour was over given our visit the next day would be during the day and the tower is prettier at night, in my opinion.   We got a metro and went to see the Eiffel tower.  The hotel clerk was extremely helpful and told us how to get a better view than the map told us about and we were grateful… we walked down to the metro (roughly 3 blocks) and promptly got misplaced in the metro station as it is a combination of a train/taxi hub/subway station, similar to Grand Central but not as pretty.    However, we found a clerk to help us and worked our way down to the metro section, bought our tickets from the kiosk, hopped on the metro and worked our way to the Eiffel tower.

We got off on a stop above the Eiffel tower and got a great view of the tower from a distance, it was lit up and very pretty.   It was nice and despite how late it was the area was full of people – there was dancing in the street.   We didn't know but on the hour ever hour the tower glitters at night, like a dancing Christmas tree.    It glittered for about 5 minutes, it was pretty awesome – Jack got a video.   I loved it, the atmosphere, the evening crisp air, being with my husband, it was really a great moment.

We then headed to the tower itself and walked around, bought some souvenirs and then headed to the closest metro, which was not the one we came in due to the view we wanted to get... so we also got slightly misplaced on the way to the station :)  However, luckily I overheard a gentleman mention the metro in English so I asked him and they were going to the same place - Awesome Sauce.  We were  grateful to have met them.  He was a student traveling abroad and he was happy to hear someone speaking english, win for both :)

We took the metro back to the confusing train station and promptly went out of the wrong exit, LOL.  I found a security guard and asked him for help… he didn’t speak great English, I didn’t speak French so it was interesting.  That being said he was very nice and when he found out we were American – he smiled and said Obama, lol.  He took us then to the right exit and was extremely friendly.  We then walked back the hotel, I got a bath and then fell in the bed and slept soundly.  Awesome!

Sunday 10/12/14

We got up this morning, very early – had breakfast and we met with our group at 7 AM.   We then went to Versailles.  It was great because we were the first group in so it was like we had the gardens of Versailles all to ourselves.  It was so calm, quiet and pretty.  I was a little disappointed the fountains were not on and it is getting winter here so the gardens were not in bloom, but it was so quiet and you could still appreciate the grand gardens and the secret surprises it holds – truly awesome.

We then explored the public rooms of the castle. It was as I remember, it was grand, gaudy and gold.  All of the ceilings were painted, custom carvings on the walls, gold, and fabric walls – no word to describe other than grandeous.   I enjoyed it and was glad I get to let Mama and see Jack see the castle I got to see in my youth.

We then headed back to Paris and promptly got stuck in traffic because of a race they had going on.  This did allow for some much needed nap time though.   However, it did put us slightly behind and had to make up time.  We picked up the rest of the group because Versailles was optional and headed to Notre Dame.   The church was fabulous and I wish we would have gotten to spend more time, but we were a little crunched and they had a mass going on so the church was extremely packed.  I didn’t have a panic attack, but it was so crowded and easy to get lost.     The outside is still my favorite part of the church – I love the buttresses.
             

We then went to the Eiffel Tower as a group.   We went up in it and mama and I missed the elevator due to weight and had to wait on the second one by ourselves.  It was ok, but it took a few minutes to get up as the lift takes 10 or so minutes to load/unload so we had a limited amount of time on the top, but we did get to enjoy the view and had a good time.   We found Jack and headed back down to meet up with the group …

Once reconnected we went to catch our boat for the evening cruise, it was raining and the cruise was a little disappointing due to that.  We shut the door in the glass enclosed area and it was foggy so I was wiping the fog off so people could see out the front, kind of funny actually.   The cruise was still nice despite the rain and it stopped raining just in time for us to head up to Montmartre.  It is a little village inside of Paris.  Historically is the artsy area where artist go to paint to earn money doing portraits, etc… It was quaint and we enjoyed it.  We bought souvenirs, had dinner with some group members and generally had a good time, though I do have to admit the waiter was a little rude – ah well – we still had a good time.

We then headed back to the group, took the trolley car back down to the bus and called it an evening.

Overall our first few days have been great, we are all still recovering from the jet lag and I’m dealing with a slight cold, but all is well here in France.   

Ice Saga Day 2

I want to start this post off by saying - WOW!  The preacher tonight, though difficult to follow at times, drove one simple point home - treat others better than you treat yourself.   I thought to myself as he was preaching this, that he was preaching to the choir that surrounded me for today the embodied this philosophy in such a way that I was left breathless.

Last night during the earthquake chat Ashley asked if there was anything they could do to help to let them know.   I told her we would welcome a chainsaw and some hands... the conversation ended with that.   I figured if they could come they would but didn't really get my hopes up - figured it would be us, Ty and Alice working along.   Not that they aren't phenomenal, just assumed it would be us.   So this AM at 9:00 Chris, Ashley's husband, texted asking when to meet.  Talk about blown away, we had an extra hand coming - WOW, I was blown away at that and so thankful.

I did post on facebook, more in jest than for reals saying - Free Pizza for anyone that can come lend a chainsaw / hands, cleanup starts at 10:30 or something like that... I know everyone had their own yards to attend to so I figured it would be Chris, us and Alice / Ty when they could, but the text kept rolling in.  Rusty needed help so Ely and Tom went over there.  Chris stated Ashley and Haize would be by later and I well I can't just tell you the feeling.   Venee texted Jack offering to help... I mean it just kept rolling in.

At the end of the day there were 10 of us pounding away at this disaster of a yard: Myself, Jack, Ashley, Haize, Chris, Venee, Ely, Tom, Rusty & Ty (in no particular order).  We made more progress in one day than Jack and I could have made in a month.  All of these people had things they could have been doing, they could have been enjoying their families, catching up on weekend errands - anything but helping us, yet here they were - sweating and pulling muscles - almost flipping four wheelers - cleaning off leaves from my porch roof - pulling daggers out of my roof - picking up limbs - chainsawing like no ones business - wenching trees! These amazing souls who donated there time and effort for a friend.

Two of these people we had not ever even met face to face, only via the computer and knowing we were part of the same church family, yet they came.   One works for my husband and has a new wife at home, yet they came, two had sweated to death already at they gym, yet they came, others had business and yards to clean up of their own, yet they came.     I am more grateful to them than they will ever know.  I can pull into my drive now without looking at it in misery - I know there is an end, we will get it back to where it was, all will be ok.  I love them and I will never forget them taking the time to lend a helping hand - whenever and wherever they need us we will be there, just say the word.

There is still much to do, but I now have faith we can do it.  The roof is going to have to be replaced, given there is a 4 to 6 inch hole in it, but God knew I needed a new one.  I prayed - God protect the house and protect the cars and he did just that.   He kept the promise that whatever we ask  in his name he will give - he knew our needs and he covered us in his umbrella of protection.   I know there are many suffering now and I don't mean to demean that in anyway - this has been a true disaster down here in many ways, but for me it was a lesson from God.  One I will treasure and remember forever.

Cleanup to be continued, but with a smile on my face and hope in my heart.

Ice Quake

Just have to add this - we are sitting here chilling in Wade's apartment grateful for the warmth and an earthquake hits - shakes the entire building.   We thought it may have been a train or something, just kept shaking - a good 30 seconds or so... seemed like a washing machine but it was shaking the entire building.

I walked outside, no one was poking their head out or anything... come back in shaking it off as a train or something and then I get on Facebook.   It was a Quake - 4.4 that was centered in Edgefield SC (about 45 min down the road).   Felt it all the way to Cumming and Dawsonville according to friends on Facebook!  Absolutely nuts - Snow Thunderstorms and Earthquakes!!!!  

I don't know when Jesus is coming back but I do know that I am saying my prayers.  I don't  normally use this blog as a religious post, but if you don't know - Jesus came to this earth to die for your sins, so that you could be reconnected to God - so you could have a relationship with him.   John 3:16 - For God So Loved the World that he gave his only begotten Son that you may have everlasting life.   It doesn't take a magical prayer or a magical ceremony - just asking God to come into your life, forgive you of your sins and start walking with him.  Maybe get in a church long term so you can learn and grow in him... but at the end of the day it boils down to your heart, not your deeds.  If your heart is truly changed your deeds will follow, though you will never be perfect - there was only one perfect sinless man - Jesus.    Ask him into your heart today... Need guidance?  I'll be glad to help - I'm not a perfect person by any means and I'm still growing in my walk, but I would love to help you.

Saying my prayers and enjoying the heat - clean up starts tomorrow!

Ice Adventures

Good evening folks - I want to record the events of the past few days before I forget.

Tuesday we knew snow was heading to Augusta and our boss went ahead and preliminary closed the office for Wednesday.   Wednesday I thoroughly enjoyed my day off watching the sleet/snow come down and played Everquest II all day - around 5 pm our power started having brown outs, Jack and I worked to get my computer and the router on the battery backup so we could play through the brown outs - right when we thought we had it all set, bam, no power at all.

So we broke the candles out, got the fire going and settled in for the night.    We were laying in the bed and started to hear the trees breaking all around us - it was a cross between hearing fireworks and a war zone.   We had a couple hit that we went out and looked at, careful not to leave the roofed area of our porch - it was a little freaky.   We went back to bed and finally Jack went upstairs to sleep because his snoring was drowning out the trees = no sleep for me.

Once he got upstairs I fell asleep only to wake up at 2:00 sick at my stomach - I got really sick and end up violently vomiting for a good 20 minutes, I finally got back to sleep around 3:30.

When we got up it was Thursday, around 9 am, both our offices were closed and it was nutz outside.  We had a tree limb hit the front of the house, luckily no major damage.  We had a tree collapse in the back yard, luckily hitting nothing, four sections of the fence are damaged from tree limbs and that isn't to talk about the front yard.   We had one pine tree fall across the yard to hit the road and rip our power line out of the pole, our Internet line was also ripped out leaving us powerless and internetless.

Billy stopped by around 9 am to check on us, cell phone service was shotty at best.  Him and Jack went to Home Depot and bought a generator and some other items.  We were hoping to not have to use it, but he bought it just in case.   I went back to bed while they were in town - it was warmer under the covers and I was so tired.

Once they got back and Billy left - We tried to head over to Alice and Ty's to check on them but we couldn't get the car out of the driveway.  We started to walk, but it was too cold so I called it and went back in.  I laid on the couch - While I laid down Jack got went outside and got the little generator we already had out, he got the fire going and moved the freezer outside and hooked it up to the little generator.  The entire time I was asleep on the couch and/or chair, just couldn't wake up - I can only assume looking back that my body was still fighting whatever made me so sick the night before.     I did turn my chair around at some point so my feet pointed to the stove - they were so cold.    Jack also cut some wood up outside while I slept under my 7 or 8 blankets...

Around 5 I woke up and we were able to get out of the driveway - we drove over to Alice and Ty's to check on them. they gave us some more firewood and we discovered their large generator had failed.  We let them use the little one and broke out the new one Jack had bought as the little one wasn't providing enough power for the freezer anyway, but would provide them with a light and something to charge phones.

After we got them the generator and visited for a bit we left to go home.   However we decided on the way home to grab a bite to eat.   Waffle House had a line out the door, but Applebee's was also open so we went there.  Their food sucks, but at that point we didn't care - We had a hot meal and thanked the staff for being kind enough to open. They were way understaffed and people were coming in groves as most didn't have power.   I was grateful to them.

We then went home and Jack got the big generator going - wow is it loud.  We got the freezer, the refrigerator, some lamps and the tv and media server hooked up.   It was awesome - I was watching some tv while he went to get some more gas.  All things considered we were doing well... then the server died, the hard drive failed.    Murphy's law but we are still blessed!    So we called it a night, I went into bedroom and got under my 8 blankets and Jack slept in the living room so he could keep fire going - super man I tell ya :)

We got up this morning around 9, my office was closed again due to no power and Jack didn't go in due to the mess at the house.  We called Alice and Ty, to see if they wanted to get breakfast - they said yes, they brought some food for the freezer to keep it safe and we headed to Waffle House.  We ate and while we were there, Wade, Jack's boss called.  He keeps an apartment here, but goes home to Atlanta on the weekend, so he offered us his apartment while he is gone!  Can you say awesomeness?   We stopped by Jack's work and got the key and then headed back home.

Alice and Ty dropped us off and Jack went to get more gas for generator and some oil.  I got the house straightened up while he was gone.  He got back and we loaded up chainsaw and headed to Alice/Ty's.  Plan was to get the chainsaw working and go over to Janine and Gordon's to get tree off of their house.  though when we got there - Ty and Gordon had gone to get gas so we just hung out for a bit.   Sat in the sun and chatted.   When Ty got back we learned that the tree that was on Gordon's house had fell and they weren't going to work with it today so we decided to go ahead and fix chainsaw (actually Ty fixed it - we thanked him, awesome handyman), get some wood and then head to Wade's so Alice/Ty could get showers.

When Ty was fixing the chainsaw Alice and I decided to load some wood.   Alice went to move Ty's truck and scraped it against the side of the tree - pretty bad.   Murphy's law I tell ya - once hugs were given, Ty went on to fix chainsaw and Jack, I and me loaded some wood.

Jack and I took Ty's truck back to the house (along with my Rav4) and unloaded the wood.   Jack also changed the oil in the generator (needed to be changed given it was it's first run) - while he did that I loaded up pillows/bag etc... for visit to Wade's.      I walked next door and checked on neighbors, they are fine - heading out of town tomorrow.

I also called my brother Bobby to see if he could help - it was funny, I asked what he had going on next weekend and he said he didn't know, needed to check with DeAnn.  I then told him I needed a favor - I needed his chainsaw and some help next weekend.  He didn't hesitate - said I'll be there, in fact I can come tonight if you need me.   I told him to wait and just come next weekend, we have to get power etc... before we can start making repairs, but the fact he was willing to drop everything brought tears to my eyes.   Family is family and I just can't say what his response meant to me.

Ty and Alice headed to our house and we caravaned over to Wade's.  They got showers and we relaxed on his couch - his apartment is very homey.  I thought given he lives here only in the week and without his wife that it would be bland, like Jack's was when I moved in, but it is decorated and very cosy.   He has books everywhere, leadership and christian reading material, pictures of his family, a keyboard ... I don't know why but my thoughts of the man have really increased.  I liked him before, but his thoughtfulness and his obvious dedication by his reading material just makes me think more of him.  I just want to give him a bear hug.

Once they got showered we headed back out, them for home (Janie and Gordon had loaned them a big generator) and us for dinner.  We ate at Cracker Barrell then went back to check on house, gassed up generator, made sure fire was still going for the fur babies, let the neighbors put some food in freezer, checked on the other neighbor's and headed back to Wade's.

I now sit here after getting a bath, in a heated apartment and am just grateful.  Grateful as it could have been a lot worse!  I prayed God protect the house and the cars and he did - I grateful and overwhelmed.    I'm hoping we get power tomorrow and I know there is alot of work ahead of, but at the end of the day - I'm simply grateful

A New Year

January 2, 2014

A New Year – One with no written pages, undefined road maps and unspoken possibility.   Where will I go, who will I become?  To have these answers would be as if I were God and I’m not.  I’m merely a wondering soul in search of a purpose – a destination.

There are those that say focus on the journey, focus on your spiritual relationship with God and all else will be as it is meant.   I’m not sure how to do that or if I even want to.   God made me.  He created my face, my body, my soul and my personality.   He made me.  He made me a planner, a methodical yet impatient person, he made me.   While I know that trusting him is paramount, I also know he made me to be me.

So I sit in my office on this first work day of 2014 and I look forward.  I may have three hours of actual work to fill my eight hour day and this makes me listless, anxious and determined.   Determined to change – the question is how do I change & what do I change?

Do I change careers or jobs?

Do I change what defines me?

Do I change my passions – or more accurately do I find a passion,  for if the truth is known I have none.

So what does 2014 bring?  What does it have in store?  I don’t know – I don’t even really know what I want it to have in store and that I believe is the true crux of the issue.  So I’ll make a list here of things I hope it holds – things that are on my mind.  I won’t call them resolutions for I really don’t know if they are my thoughts / wants or just things I think I should want because society/church/culture says I should…

1. More Dedication at the Gym – 4 Days a week
2. Make a decision on my career and take whatever steps necessary to make it happen
3. Let go of the resentment 
4. Nag Jack Less – Communicate More
5. Read/Study Bible More
6. Pray More
7. Be more open in my relationship with God – Learn to separate emotion and truth – Stop being afraid of the emotion
8. Stop defining myself by what I do, but instead by who I am
9. Do more – Whine less
10. Realize I can do anything I want – from Construction, to programming – I can.
11. Move forward – learning from the past without sitting in it
12. Even out the emotional rollercoaster
13. Do more than exist

So these are my thoughts, my hopes, and my list.   Now to do something about it.   Here is wishing you and yours a fantastic blessed New Year!

DC Day 4

Washington DC Day 4

We headed home today, but not before squeezing in a couple of things.  First of all we went to grab breakfast at the same diner we ate at yesterday, it was awesome.  I would eat there every weekend if it was close to home.  Once we ate we headed over to the National Cathedral – it was absolutely breath taking, the sun was absolutely gorgeous on the structure.   Beautiful – we took the tour and got to walk the structure.  It was worth delaying our trip home by a couple of hours.

Then we headed home – we did stop at South of the Border on the way back just so Kaylee could experience the cheese.  It was great!  Really enjoyed the trip, but glad to be home.

DC Day 3

Sunday we got up and went to breakfast at a local diner – I want to say it was Edith’s diner.  It was really good, excellent food.   After breakfast we drove over to Arlington National Cemetery and took the trolley tour.  It was sweltering hot, but I couldn’t go to DC without letting Kaylee see the sacrifice our Solders paid for our freedom.     After Arlington we grabbed a bite to eat and then went for our 2:15 appointment at the National Archives.

I was so glad we planned ahead and got passes because the line was around the building.  We went in and saw the founding documents of our nation and they have a ton of other exhibits as well.    I think Mama and Jack would have enjoyed spending some more time exploring, but Kaylee and I were super bored.  Once we left there we headed out to the American History Museum …

It was awesome to see the Star Spangled Banner in real life, it was huge, much bigger than I ever imagined.   The transportation exhibit was pretty cool and they had a doll house that was awesome, the dream house of every little girl.   After the American History Museum we went to and got an ice-cream and enjoyed sitting down a few minutes, it was awesome.  It was a good break -  days of walking had started to wear on all of us, but we were determined to see as much as we could.

Once our break was up we headed to the Natural History Museum.  Kaylee and I paid extra and went through the butterfly exhibit; it was pretty cool – not as neat as the one @ the Botanical Gardens in GA, but neat never-the-less.    I think Kaylee liked it – it’s hard to tell w/ her.  Once we went through that we split up for a bit.  Kaylee and Jack went to see something and Mama and I headed into the National Geographic photography exhibit.   There were some incredible photographs and a bench to sit and look at them … it was really incredible.  I loved it.

After the natural history museum we headed over to the Old Ebbitt Grill; it was a recommendation of a friend of mine and it was good, we were all so tired though.  Once we went to dinner we headed back to the hotel and crashed for the night.

Washington DC Day 2

Day two of our journey started out much more rested and ready to face the day.   We ate breakfast at the hotel and then hopped on the Metro to go have coffee with President Obama – yea I wish, but we did go see his house.   We took some pictures of it and some of the nearby statues - I’d also like to point out that there was a person silently protesting a brutality going on in China where live people’s organs are being harvested without their consent.   I haven’t researched it enough to say if the protest is valid or if there is even anything we as American’s can do if it is, but I did find the following website that mentions it if you are interested in looking further.  http://www.dafoh.org/unethical-organ-harvesting/.

After our White House visit we went to a nearby gift shop and did some souvenir shopping  - I really liked the store, I think it was the official White House gift shop, if not it certainly gave that impression.  Then we headed off for a day at the Smithsonian, with our first stop being the Air and Space Museum.   We saw airplanes, planets, a 3D movie on something Jack or I neither one can remember (it was just good to sit down).   Jack seemed to enjoy it – Kaylee, well I have no idea if she did or not – Mama and I went along for the ride.  

We ate lunch in the cafeteria at the Air/Space Museum and boy was it hectic!  It advertised to serve Boston Market and McDonald's, but there was only like 1 Boston Market item on the menu, so it was pretty much McDonald's.   We got our food and were… well not too happy, but it was edible.  Mama got the Boston Market option and I think we all wished we would have done that. 

After lunch, Art was on the agenda – we headed over to the American Art Museum and started looking around.  After 20 minutes I could tell everyone was bored out of their minds and we were tired.  Reading it – it doesn't seem like much – but with all the walking these few items we did took it out of you.  I bet we walked 10 miles a day during the trip, we had gotten the Trolley Tours tickets, but they were never where we needed them (I since received a full refund).   So given how tired we were and the fact a long night ahead of us I changed the agenda and we took a break.  We went back to the hotel, crawled under the sheets and took a couple ours nap.

Once we woke up we hopped in the car (note I said car vs. metro) and headed to go see Union Station.  Yes we drove to the train station vs. taking the metro.   We had reasons, but it still seems silly.  We had dinner at East Street Café’, an Asian restaurant that looks over the shopping and we really enjoyed it.  The food was good and the atmosphere was awesome!   We were the only patrons as they close at 7, which made it even better I think.  The station was neat, the one in NY is prettier, but it was still neat to see.  Plus I love watching all the people coming and going.

After dinner we hopped back in our car and went for our monuments tour.  We saw Abe Lincoln, Roosevelt, WWII, MLK and Vietnam.   We also so the Washington Monument form a distance – it is closed for remodel due to the EQ last year, but it was still pretty even with the scaffolding around it.  I’d also like to note that the week we visited was Boy Scout Jamboree week – so there were millions of Boy Scouts in DC and it was really apparent during the Monuments tour as they were everywhere, like large ants.   I will have to say though, for that many kids, they all seemed very on their game and well behaved.  So props given to that… still like ants though.  There was one statue we went to see that is Einstein reading (I don’t seem to have those pictures for some reason), but anyway – you could crawl on the statue, one troop was getting pictures and they completely covered him up, it was insane.  Like Ants I tell – Millions of Ants.

By time we got done with MLK it was close to 10 PM so we headed back to the hotel and crashed for the night.

Washington DC Day 1

This was written a month or so after we got back so my memories aren't as fresh as they were – should have done it sooner, but such is life.   We arrived on Thursday night around 10 pm and all of us were tired – then I didn't sleep well that night so our Friday was tempered by the fact that most of us were running on steam that and the fact it was raining when we got started.   However we overcame and overall had a pretty good day – even if I did start out grumpy.

We got up and left the hotel around 7:30, headed to the Metro and headed to the Bureau of Engraving and Printing to get our tickets so we could see money being made later in the day.  This was Kaylee’s first metro ride and I hope she enjoyed it – through the trip it was really hard to tell if she was super bored or just not enthusiastic.   I did the best I could so I’m not going to worry about it, but I digress.

We got our tickets and then headed to Le Bon Café which is right down the street from the US Capital and had rave reviews online – they weren't wrong.  It was just a tiny café, you ordered at the counter and they brought it to you.  Nothing fancy, but the food was absolutely delicious.  I got French toast and loved it.    Then we headed to the Capital Building and were fortunate enough to get a tour even without reservations.     It was interesting hearing her talk about the different things with the capital, the empty tomb meant for George Washington (typical Gov’t forgot to plan and ask if he wanted to be buried there), the fact that states send statues for display and the gorgeous architecture.   Jack and I saw the outside last time were in DC, but this was my first visit inside.

After our tour we walked through the tunnel to the Library of Congress and WOW!  It was amazing; I want to go back and spend an entire day in here just looking at the architecture and exploring.  We took a tour and stayed through most of it, but as we were all dragging and Kaylee was bored out of her mind we did skip out of it a little early, but oh I want to go back.   The color and beauty is just astounding. 

We headed down and ate lunch at the Café in the Supreme Court Building – the food was good, but they really need a better organizational system.  There are different lines for the different food depending on what you want (salad, hamburger, stir fry), but no marking as to where to go or that there even is different lines.   It was stressful but the food was great – I had a chicken noodle dish that was cooked to order – awesome!

After that we headed up to actually see the Supreme Court building – very solemn and graceful.   We sat in on a lecture where they explained all the procedure that goes with the court, most of it pomp and circumstance, but it was interesting and it got us off of our feet for a bit! 

Once we finished with that we had a little bit of energy from sitting and were ready to catch our tour to see the money being made.   We got there a little early and were able to exchange our tickets, which was great.   The tour was alright – Jack absolutely loved it, the rest of us were less impressed – but each to his own J  It was cool to see I guess, but I just expected something different, not sure what.

Then we headed to Georgetown for Pizza.  We ate at Pizzeria Paradiso (again due to Internet reviews) and it was worth it.  We got there and had to wait for a table… the trip there required quite a bit of walking, or we were just so tired by then that an inch would have been quite a bit – unsure which is which.  Anyway, once we got there and were waiting for a table outside there was this little 2 year old boy that kept running up and kissing Kaylee’s knee, it was so cute.   He had a crush, it was so cute J

After dinner we headed back to the hotel and I collapsed in my bed not to be seen till Morning – Jack went to Target for some stuff, a bag, some other items we needed but I was so tired I don’t even remember him getting back.    

And that was all in day 1 J  I didn't take as many pictures as I normally would – was tired and some areas you couldn't take pictures in.  Plus it was low lighting in some areas and I just didn't feel like stressing about it so I didn't.    The ones I did take are above though, enjoy!  

Orlando Trip Day 1

I'm writing about this trip a little late... I normally journal each night so that it is fresh in my mind, but I've just been too tired this journey.  So I'll attempt to write about what I remember here so that years from now I have some hope of remembering this awesome expirence.

Day 1 - Travel Day, Wednesday 4/24

Today I worked at the office until about 3; time inched by and the closer to three it got the slower time traveled.  Such as it is when you are excited about the adventure to come.   I left the office at three, went home, relaxed for a few minutes then gathered Mama up and headed to the airport.  Over all the trip was uneventful even if we did have to go to Orlando FL from GA by way of Charlotte NC.     We got into the airport around 12 and I was a little irriated w/ Jack that we had to wait on him to pick us up vs. him being there when we landed like I would have been... but I got over it.   We got to the condo and settled around 1:30 and hit the sack.

I didn't sleep to well due to Jack snoring and kicking in his sleep - the last time I glanced at the clock it was 4:30 am, so I knew the next day was going to be a long one...

Day 2 - Magic Kindgon, Thursday 4/25

Thursday was the real start of our vacation.  We met up with Steve and Leo at the Waffle House and had breakfast.  It had been 3 years since we seen them last and I was a little apprehensive about how it would go, but it was like we had just seen them yesterday.  It's so awesome to have friends like that - friens where you just pick right up.   I miss them again already... I wish they lived closer.  

Anyway, I don't want to get to sentimental... so back to the journey.  We ate breakfast, hopped in their car and headed for the Magic of Disney, the Magic Kingdom.     The expierence was really  nice, the day was pleasant and the park while crowded was managable.  A few of the highlights I remember from the day:

- The Disney Castle is really cool to look at.
- The Hall of Presidents was cool; it has life size replicas of the Presidents that move and talk on Stage.  You got to see Obama take the Oath.
- The Haunted Mansion was cool, but I was a little disappointed.  I was told they sat next to you and that had changed and they no longer do.   Overall it was cute though.
- Space Mountain is a roller coaster I don't care to do again... Jack had fun though.
- The Laugh floor show @ Monstor's Inc was really cute and funny.   They have interactive cinema that talks and communicates w/ the audiance in real time.
- We ate lunch at a little pop in place, nothing special
- We ate dinner at the Pioneer restaurant, the hostess was rude, but the food was awesome as was the waiter + it was all you could eat so bonus.    The A/C at this point was also awesome.
-The daytme parade was cute and we got to sat down for a few which at this point was welcome, my feet were on fire and it was warm.  I ate a fruity icecream and watched the floats and dancers.
-The parade was really cool.  It was crowded though and people kept getting in front of us.   I wish we would have had a better spot, but the light show on the castle and the fireworks were awesome.
- After that we all exited the park which was a little like be herded like cattle and not pleasant at all.  I was relieved I didn't have a panic attack.

We got back to our hotel around 1 am, got showers and passed out.   Thank God for an overall great day with friends!

I'll write up the rest of our trip later... its 10 pm and my eyes are closing.  Love Ya Blogland

2013

Happy 2013 blogland.   

I don't post as often anymore - just don't have a lot to say, but I couldn't go into the New Year without throwing some thoughts into the void.  

I sit here at my desk; enjoying the fire from the wood burning stove, drinking my coffee and realize how absolutely wonderful my life is.  I have problems - everyone does, but when all the excess is boiled away and the substance is what is examined it's pretty great!   So I' thought I'd take a moment to stop and list some of the things I'm grateful for going into this New Year:

• I have a husband who loves me, understands me and puts up with me.  
• We can pay the bills and still have a little money left over for some fun.
• While my circle of friends may not be large it is strong and I love each and everyone of them no matter how far away they live.
• I have a mother who is truly my best friend; she drives me crazy sometimes and helps me stay sane at other times; who could ask for more.
• We are relatively healthy.

The list could go on but those are my biggest items I'm grateful for.  As I read the news and see the mass amount of insanity going on in this world I think it's important to look at your life and be grateful.  Life is so short - treasure it.

... and to jump into another topic with no seq way what so ever.   What are you New Year's resolutions?  Historically I've not made any or the ones I've made were not really followed through with, but this year I'm going to try.  So here are my resolutions:

1. Find and Get Involved in a Church
2. Do a Bible Study everyday
3. Continue with my workout's - ramp them up to be better for myself.
4. Lose and maintain weight loss - Need to be about 5 to 10 pounds lower.   Those of you who know me don't worry... I'm not going crazy, but I hit 30 a while back and my body weight has been inching up every since.  I am getting it under control now!
5. Photography - Learn, Learn, Learn... Get more 5 star pictures; learn to shoot people better.  Enjoy the process.
6. House Projects to complete:
1. Outdoor Kitchen
2. Walk Way
3. Mamas House Remodel
1. Kitchen
2. Living Room Floor/Paint

So that is 2013's plan :)   Here is praying it is a great year filled with happy moments with friends and family. 

Day 7 Italy - End of Journey

Italy Day 7, Last Day of the Journey

Today was fairly uneventful; we mainly traveled via interstate from Venice to Rome with a couple of quick uneventful or memorable stops along the way.

The hotel here in Rome is nice, a conference hotel and the bed looks comfy.   I can’t wait to crawl in it.  We had a nice end of the tour group dinner & the wine flowed freely.  It was great – we have to be ready for a early pickup tomorrow, 6:30 am to catch the plane home.  So goodnight, sleep well.

Italy Day 6

Italy Day 6

Today was a jam packed day.  We left the hotel @ 8AM and walked to the dock where we hopped a boat to an area near the city center.  We then walked to St.  Marks square and took a tour of the Dogass Palace, the jail and St. Marcs church.

We then went to a glass blowing shop and saw how it was made – it was really neat.  However, Venetian glass is very expensive, I saw a Chandelier for 27,000 Euros!

We walked around and window shopped a bit, then met back with some of our group to go to Burano Island where they are known for their lace.  We had a good lunch, though it was a bit fishy for me and then walked the shops.  I bought a few things and generally had a good time though I admit I as getting tired.   We then hopped on the boat and came back to the mainland.  The trip over we sat on the top, but this time the inside bench made a good bed.

Once we got back to the main island we had some time on our own.  We took a good hour and ½ meandering back to the hotel.   It was nice and we shopped a bit along the way (Mama haggled).  I love Venice, the relaxing nature of it, even if it is crowded.

We then came upstairs and got a shower, by this time I was beat.  We relaxed for a bit in the room and then decided to go outside.  We ran into other people from the tour downstairs in the lobby and spent a good hour visiting.  It was great – this group is so inclusive, I love it.

Jack & I took a stroll outside with Doug, one of the guys from our group.  We were delighted to find a street performer (fire).  It was a mazing & still the day is not over.  When we got back to the hotel we met up with Mike & Jenny, another couple from our group.   We went up to the balcony and talked or two more hours.  It was really a great evening.  Jam packed day, but I loved it.  Now I must sleep.

Italy Day 5

Italy Day 5

Today we left Florence & headed for Venice.  Mostly, it was a traveling day, however we did stop for lunch in Verona, which was nice.  They have an amphitheater similar to the Coliseum, but smaller.   This is also the town Romeo & Juliet were based in.  The town is mainly shopping, but it was pretty & a nice little stroll.

One thing to note here is I paid .70 Euro to use the potty only to find a sunken toilet in the floor.  So basically a whole that I stood over, interesting to say the least…

We then headed to Venice which is fascinating.  The water city!  We rode in a Gondola.  I worried we were going to tip over or Mama would fall out…  We also took a water taxi which is very expensive to dinner.  I wasn’t impressed with the service tonight at dinner, but it was good overall.   Jack and I waltzed in St. Mark square before we headed back to the hotel.

Day 4, Italy

Italy Journal
Day 4, 9/5/12

This morning we got a late start; it was 7:50 before the bus left.   The breakfast was terrible; Italians can’t cook breakfast, but it was on a rooftop dining room so the view made up for the food.

We then made our way to downtown Florence were we 1^st went to the Academia Museum & saw the statue of David.  Our guide obviously loved art and made Michelangelo come to life.   There were 4 unfinished works that were awesome to see.  You cold kinda see the process he went through, which was just awesome.   David itself is Massive, 20 ft high.

We left there and walked to the city center of Florence – this town has a lot of walking.  We saw the Church of Croce which is gorgeous and very unique.     We saw Duomo & Babtistry Buildings – one has Gold doors and we saw the Piazzo Del Signoria which is an open space sculpture muse am.  The guide went at a good pace which allowed me to wonder and take pics which I enjoyed.  Overall I like Rome more, but Florence has its charms.  It is a lot more crowded though…

Once the guide was finished we were given free time to eat lunch and wonder.  They are is known for  leather and gold, but the $$$ were steep.   We got a few gifts and I got some glove, Jack a belt and that was it.  I just didn’t want to spend the $, this trip is already costing a pretty penny.

We also wondered up to the Ponte Vechhi Bridge, which has buildings on it & is the oldest of its kind left.  It was neat to see, but very crowded so we headed back to wait for the group at the square.

We then left Florence and went to San Gimiignano which is a medieval town with walls and towers.   The view off of the top was Tuscany countryside and it was great.   The buildings were awesome.  It was quaint with shops and ice-cream parlors; a little touristy, but I liked it.

We then headed back to Florence & had dinner.  Overall it was nice day, but very tiring.   I’m glad we get to spend time on the bus tomorrow.

Italy Day 3

Italy Journal
9/4/12

Today was a day of traveling. We left Rome at 7:0 and headed to Tuscany. The landscape has changed to one of rolling hills divided by bushes. We made a short stop at the leaning tower of Piza & I was very impressed. You always see the tower, but there are two gorgeous buildings there. Overall the area is very touristy - some would say "tourist trap", but we enjoyed it even though some street vendors were pushy.

We then got on the bus and drove a few more hours to Florence. Our room is big by European standards; but the bathroom is tiny. However it does have shutters that open to let the breeze in. Very relaxing and peaceful.

After a few minutes to regroup we left for a nice dinner in the Tuscany countryside. The countryside is gorgeous & the restaurant quaint. We sat with a couple from Penn. and had a nice conversation. The wine was free and several o four group members enjoyed it. They were singing on the way back to the hotel and having a great time. It was really great and relaxing.

After we got back to the hotel we were ready to come to the room, but several people told us the view from the 5th floor was great & it was. We sat around, had a drink and shot the shit with people from our group for an hour a so. It was a great time. The group & being included in it was awesome.

Today was bien.

Italy Day 2

Journal - Day 2, 9/3/12

Today was our first official day of the tour and it was jam packed. We got up and had breakfast. It was was buffet and it was jammed with people. I wasn't very impressed with it. WE then loaded on the bus and were on our way to The Vatican Museum which is breath taking. Tapestry with gold weaved in, amazing paintings and architecture. Ceiling paintings that looked like sculpture. We then went into the Sistine Chapel which was so amazing. The room was smaller than I thought it would be, but the detail was exquisite. Peoples voices would raise as they spoke and then the guard would shout and all would quite down be quite again, then the cycle would repeat. It was rather humorous. I did fairly well today, only a couple of small moments of unease due to the crowds. After the chapel we left and went to St. Peters Cathedral. Again the architecture was amazing, the cross of Christ was there, but behind statues where you couldn't see it. To protect it I'm sure. It was amazing, the colors, the statues, the history. you could spend a month and not see it all.

We then left and headed to the Colosseum. I felt a little rushed, but it was still astounding to see. To think of men dying on the stones while others cheered, barbaric, and the fact they built it so long ago.

We also walked up, and saw the remains of the forum where the Ancient Greeks ruled from. The columns and relics still standing as a marker of history. We then came back, grabbed some pizza and Ice cream and took it back to the room, where we took a much needed nap as we did walk for 4 hours this AM.

Then we left the hotel again for the afternoon excursion. We went to the top of the Spanish Steps & walked down like all of the models do. The street is famous for shopping (Gucchi, Prada, etc...) We sat on the steps for a while & watched the people.

We then walked onto the Pantheon. It was also amazing to see the ancient structure in the heart of town. It also had amazing architecture and art work. Through the walk we saw various obelisk and monuments. WE also sat outside the Pantheon for a bit and relaxed. Once we did that we went to our last stop of the day - Novana Plaza. Tons of art work for sale, great buildings and generally fun.

We left there, came back to the hotel an grabbed some dinner. It was a great day. My feet hurt, but it was awesome.

*Journal After Thoughts

- Breakfast in Itally proved to be lacking. They don't generally eat it and it was absolutely horrible. But they make up for it with dinner.

- Sorry for all of the "amazings" I was tired and other words would not come.

- Pictures didn't turn out that great - too rushed and many places didn't allow the flash.

Italy Journal - Day 1

9/2/12

Well it is my first journal in Italy. It technically is a journal of two days for our journey began yesterday at 8 am.

We got up and went and had a nice breakfast @ Sunrise Grill; our new favorite place. We then made our way to the Augusta Airport. Our flight was scheduled to leave at nooon, but we arrived super early at 9:30. I'm always ok being somewhat early, but never late. We read, talked and waited. Luckily the plane left on time w/o incident and we were on our way. The flight from Augusta to Atlanta was uneventful and took right at an hour, gate to gate.

We de-boarded in Atlanta and went in hunt of the new International gate. It all went really smooth and then we decided to grab some lunch given the 3 hour layover. We went into the eating area and I got a little panicky - like I can in crowds; this typically makes me whinny and bitchy, lovely eh? We found a table off to the side and Jack told me to go get my food while he minded the bags. I went to Panda Express and really couldn't see for the crowd of peps - which made me edgy to begin within so I went back and told Jack "I want chow-main and on the entree surprise me." Chow main was the side dish. I also tol him I wanted a spring roll; so he goes off.

Mama comes back with her food and I'm sitting there relating to her that I could eat a horse when Jack comes back - he had 1 plate and this itty bitty box plus 2 drinks. I asked him "where is mine" and he said "this is it - thought we would share and if you want more I'll go back". Now keep in mind I'm bitchy and whinny at this point. I felt so deflated, he didn't get me any food. No of course he had and his way was really a better idea, but I didn't see it that way at the time. I was so irritated. It seems so silly now, and he really did do what was best, but there I was; eating my "share" of the food which had no chow-mein on it growling from the inside and hungry. He asked if I wanted anything more, but hell would have frozen over 1st so I said no. WE finished eating lunch - I guess - and went to the terminal to wait. I ate a box of our raisin reserves, go carry-on bags.

We then boarded the plane for our 9 hour flight to Rome, about 2 hours in I realized I was a bitch and apologized for such... The plane ride was very uncomfortable and I was seated between Jack and Mama with no room, but we are here now and looking back it wasn't that bad.

Once we arrived in Italy we swept through customs with no problem. He barely even glanced at my passport... and found our tour company. We then drove to the hotel where we met our tour guide Maria. She gave us some basic info, got us our rooms and set us free until 5 pm.

Now we thought we would go directly to sleep, but another couple (Doug & Carol) on the tour said the best way to get through jet lag was to push through and it made sense, so we did. We went upstairs to our room, got a shower, etc... and headed out. The three of us alone in Italy. It was fun, we wandered to see a castle (St. Angelo). We wondered along the bridge and took pictures of the statures. We said no to street vender's and enjoyed the whether. It rained on us a little, but it was all good.

By this time it was 1 pm and we were all really dog tired so we decided to wonder back to the hotel. I was also starving so we dropped Mama at the hotel, given she didn't want to go eat, and we went for food. We at eat this nice place - I felt odd as we just wanted a light meal to hold us over so we split a lasagna. It was good, not like the kind we at a home at all, cheesier/lighter and yummy. We then came back to the hotel and took a nap.

We woke up at 4 pm and got dressed, then went and officially met our group. We stat through a brief 45 minute intro and then headed to a nice dinner. We sat with an Australian Couple who were nice. The good was also good - mostly.

1st course, meet and cheese tray = ok, Second Course - Some Red Sauce Pasta & Green Sauce Pasta - Yummy, 3rd Course - Pork and Spinach with Salad = not so good, Desert - Berry Pie w/ boisenberries = Ick. But the experience was nice. We then went on a lighted tour of the city. Everything is so pretty with all of the old architecture. Much of it we will see tomorrow, but we did get to go see the Fountain of Trevi which was crowded but gorgeous. It was really a great day or well 2 days. Now I need my rest so I can start tomorrow fresh - so g'night.

End Journal 9/2/12

After thoughts - Just as a note the journal so I will remember.

* The tour guide - Maria - she was terrific throughout the tour. I really enjoyed her. She was always happy and just well great at what she did.

** Driving in Italy is crazy, they obey no laws and the streets are really tight. Our driver was awesome, however when he would get really close to something that she would see from the front she would say "oops" or "mama mia" it was so cute.

*** Cokes are expensive - between 1 and 6 Euros (1 Euro = 1.2 Dollars). Everything is more expensive over there. Their cost of living is outrageous; especially in Venice.

**** On Day 1 a guy at the Fountain of Trevi a guy offered to take our picture, he had a nice camera so I let him (My judge to see if they are going to run off with it), but Jack didn't trust him and watched him with his eye while we were getting a shot kissing (funny pic) and true enough, he handed the camera back to us and then wanted to get a picture we would "pay him for" - umm - no.

Ramblings

I don't get on here very often any more. I'm not sure what that means... have I reached that point in my life that I'm content and thus don't feel the need to pour my soul out into the faceless void or am I just lazy? I don't know the answer to that, but what I do know without a doubt is that no matter the day, no matter the event - Life goes on.

The hubby and I are well; in fact we are fantastic. Things fall apart around us, unexpected circumstances arise, breakage occurs - and we stand. We stand stronger; we stand boldly and with joy. We stand... I'm excited by that fact, excited in a world where things make no sense, we make sense. We are and and by God's grace we will remain. I love having that - it's like a permanent security blanket that is warm and fuzzy. Fuzzy Pants for the soul :)

And onto other rambling ideas:

- Someone at work the other day compared the US to the Roman Empire, how they were the wealthiest Nation, how they prospered until their morality began to circle the toilet, how they justified their actions and how that justification eventually lead to their collapse. I couldn't help but see his point, how long will the US stand if we continue to be morally bankrupt? I don't know the answer, but I pray I'm not here to see the collapse.

- Speaking of praying - I need to work on my own moral compass. I need to find a church, start back my daily reading time and generally live like I should live vs. how I want to live. I could justify myself and almost did as my fingers fly over the keyboard, but there is no excuse. As a recent blog I read stated - I need to brush my moral teeth.

- And continue the rambling - Some recent finds that are true gems:

1) http://michaelpatz.com/ -> I love this guy's way of thinking. Wish he was pastor at a church near here.

2) Awesome Band I recently found at a local talent night - http://www.facebook.com/SheNSheSounds?ref=stream#!/SheNSheSounds

- Politically I watch and read more than I ever have - the past 3 years I have become a spounge reading all kinds of articles, websites etc... and while I live in a state that will never vote with me I will vote - I will vote for Obama. I didn't vote for him in '08. I didn't want him as my President, I don't even know why - I wasn't educated enough to tell you (our voters really need to be able to tell you about the issues on some level), but then he won. So I engaged - I wanted to see what hole he would bury us in. What did I find? I found a man who I largely agreed with, one who honestly tries to help the American people, not just the rich. I found someone who at least on some level "gets it" and so I will vote - I will vote for my President, Mr. Obama because he cares.

- I got my birthcontrol for free this month - Obamacare :) so rightfully named because he does care.

And with those random thoughts with some political tyraid I bid you a good night. Til next time, whether that be next week or next year. Though I have a feeling it will be in sooner as we are going to Italy in 3 weeks and I have to share my travels :)

Love you blogland.

2012

So it is now 15 days into 2012 and I find myself discovering/analyzing what I want to focus on for the upcoming year. I don't want to do resolutions - for they most always fail, but I do want 2012 to be a great year.

My brother was just down for a weekend.. It was nice to see him and his family. His daughter is growing into such a little lady. I enjoyed their visit, but as they left I also found I enjoyed the silence that followed. Don't get me wrong, I'd love for them to have stayed another few days. I just noticed the silence once they were gone, the peace of it and the fact that my spirit found rest and joy in it.

So I guess my first thought is I want 2012 to be a year of quiet reflection. Of soft moments of pleasure and contentment.

I also find that I want to do more with my time. I want 24 hours to be streched into 30, but since I can't do that I just need to figure out how to do more. Don't get me wrong, I still love my days of rest... those days where you do nothing but veg and read a good book or have a tv marathon, but I also want to accomplish more that...

- I want to work around the house and do several projects that are burning in my mind: closet, stain decks/bridges, build laptop box, etc...
- Work on growing professionally
- Get more active with my scrapbooking either paper or digitally
- Finish uploading all pictures
- Do more of the books for our vacations
- Continue at the gym, ramp up my workouts and be diligent about getting both my cardio and my weights done.
- Get up earlier and have time for a morning Yoga and Time with God... this is going to be my hardest challenge.
- Get more serious about my bible studies
- Spend time with God daily
- Live my life as God would have me live it - including getting rid of my attitude issues, my grumpiness, my foul mouth, my self-centered expectations and etc...
- Learn to listen to my husband more, critize less - grow in our marriage. Continue to treasure the comfort of knowing he is there regardless. Treat him like the jewel that he is.

And with that I need to learn more than ever to sit quietly, enjoy things more and stop taking myself too seriously.

Have a great 2012 blogland... Love you!

Goodbye 2011

*Typed at 5:30 PM 12/31/2011

2011 is drawing to a close and I want to reflect back on what the year has been. It is difficult to do though; it really hasn’t been a memorable year. Which in many ways are good, there were no major catastrophe’s in my life, no major upheavals that upset the balance of nature… we just were. If anything 2011 was a year of togetherness.

Jack and I bought the house in Grovetown in 2010 and this year we found most of our free time working on it. We learned how, or at least learned more of, how to work with one another. We learned when to push, when to pull and when to sit quietly and let the other one vent. We learned and we grew closer.

In January I got really sick for the second or third year in a row and decided enough was enough. We completely revamped our diet and joined the local Y. Other than during the Christmas season we have gone steady for this year and plan to jump right back in after the New Year. We eat more fresh food (less Hamburger Helper); eat more turkey and a lot more veggies… I take 4 vitamins a day now: Flintstones Multi, C, E and B12… My energy level is good, though not as good when I was on Steroids in Feb… WOW, I know how that stuff is addictive.

Major projects on the house were done this year: Jack installed the back screened in porch for my anniversary, We had sod and a sprinkler system installed, painted the front porches with red and green, had rip/rap laid in the back, Mama cleaned out the front ditch and we finished the rock garden.

Inside things didn’t change much. Jack refinished the dressing table that now sits in my bedroom, awesome job and he stained a shelf we bought unfinished. I finally cleaned up the spare bedroom and now have a crafting area to call my own – one I rarely use…

We grew closer to Alice and Ty this year… I met her at work and they are really our only social connection down here, great people. Ty helped Jack with the screened in porch…

Jack and I went to NY for our anniversary only to have Hurricane Irene put a major damper on it, though I can now say I was in NY when it slept...

Other than that it was a quiet year. Jack and I find ourselves more in a rhythm than ever before. I just know without question he is there and he loves me. That in itself is source of quiet relief in my soul, but even better I know I love him without question or doubt. To know I have a partner in all things good and bad is such a blessing and a comfort. As I said on Facebook a while back, God is my rock and Jack is my walking stick.

And with that Jack and I bid 2011 ado and look forward to a bright 2012.

Recap

Bed time -- Day at work was... hopping/rough/stressful/humbling - I said things I regret and regret to admit I still feel them. Day at home was - Great - Hubby that works beside me, that is my partner in all things - A mother that is at all times my truest friend - A house that frustrates and challenges me depending on the day. Obama's Speach - Classic / Congress Faces Unforgettable - Here is praying out congressmen/women get over themselves enough to do what is right and get America headed back to where it needs to be, the land of opportunity... So with that I go to bed - Maybe tomorrow will be great on both fronts and Congress w/ decide to look out for the people vs. themselves.

NY Trip

We have been back a few days, but as always I wantd to put my log up here for those that are interested and so that I can look back later on.

Thursday - 08/25

We got up early and went about our daily routine. For me it was a crazy busy day at work - I was trying to get ready for the few days out of the office and my desk exploded. Howerever, I was able to leave on time and picked Jack up to begin our weekend adventure.

We went to the Augusta airport & went to check in for our flight. We few US Airways for the first time and their first impression was not a good one. We waited for over thirty miintues for a clerk to show up and when they did th efirst guy was rude and lecutruing. One lady had two children an ddidn't have seat assignments - his answer was to leacture her & say good luck. Well, with an attitude like that I really wonder how he has a job.

We went to the 2nd clerk and he mumbled. We found out our bag was overweight so, instead of costing us $25 it cost us $115 - lesson learned. Afterwards the service at the airport improved, but it wasn't a great impression.

Then we took off and landed in Charlotte and later connected to NY. Our taxi ride from th e airport to th ehotel was chepaer than expected and the city was still alive despite ti being 12:30 on a Thursday night. We then arrived at the hotel. It is very nice, the staff friendly and the hotel spacious and comfortable. I slept like a baby.

Friday - 8/26
Today we got up around 9, go dressed and headed out. We ate at a diner near the hotel for breakfastand it was fairly good. The coffee was strong, but the french toast was good.

We then headed down to see lady Liberty & Ellis Island. Everyone says New Yorkers are rude, but we had a very niceg guy help us find our way. He is probably still laughing about us asking where the subway was given we were standing right next to it.

We took the subway down an dheaded over to the Castle to bouy our tickets. We later learned that there would be two lines - one for our tickets and one for the boat. Overall the lines took about two hour, but it wasn't that bad. The ride out was nice and the view great. Lady Liberty is huge and great to see. Ellis Islan was also neat, but I was ready to go.

We left there and headed to City Hall. The building was hgute and neat to see. There was a street vendor there and we got some chicken/rice dish and ate in the aprk. It was nice, even if I was worried about birds shitting on me. We then headed down to 911 -> very sobering, but not much to see. A whole lot of construction.

We then headed down to the Flat Iron district - the Flat Iron building is super neat and the area around it was relaxing. There is still a ton to see, but after the dissappointment that our Broadway show was cancelled (a hurricane is chasing us) & the fact my legs are killing me it was time to come back to the hotel for some down time... So here we are.

More to come later ;) Have a great day blogland.

Slacker

Yep, I've been a blog slacker - still eating fairly well (though no where near as meticulous as I was in Jan) and still going to the gym. Really wish those steroids I took in Jan were not habit forming - I miss the energy they gave me :)

Yard is coming together - Family is good - I'm Me - Life is good - Hope you are well.

Miss you blogland - I hope to be back more regularly soon.

WoW! Long Day!

Today was good and the Lord blessed me with safe travels to Atlanta and back. It was a good day, my meetings went well - I got to see my old Wells Fargo colleagues and friends which was nice. However I am tired - 5:30 came early this morning.

The gym was killer tonight. I tried a new machine for my cardio that was killer... I only made it 7 Minutes on it, I'm so out of shape. Working on it though, did my 40 minutes of cardio overall and my weight routine for the day. Amazing how much harder weights are when you are tired, hee.

Well other than the food log that is below that is all I have to share for the day. My brain and my body is mush, I'll sleep good tonight that is for sure. God Bless you, I hope you had a great day!

Food Log:

2/8 - Tuesday

Breakfast:
- Oatmeal
- Piece of Raisin Bread
- Coffee

Lunch:
- Sandwich on Wheat Bread with BBQ Chicken Sandwich Meat
- Grapes
- Salad
- Apple Juice

Dinner:

- Shrimp Pasta Bake - ***** Oooh it was good, I'll have to type the recipe out, but will share it soon.
- Salad
- Brusel Sprouts
- Wheat Rolls
- Tea

Wednesday - 2/9

Breakfast:
- Oatmeal
- Piece of Raisin Bread
- Coffee

Lunch:
- Business Lunch @ Chili's
- Beef Fajita's with cooked onions/bell peppers
- Water

Dinner:
- Left over shrimp bake from last night
- Water
- Wheat Rolls

Back in the Saddle

Sorry I've been absent, I know you were sitting on the edge of your seat (hee). We went to see my brother and his family in Yulee FL this weekend. It was good to see them - I really enjoyed the visit and the time away. That being said it is also to be back home. Not sure what is going on, but I'm finding myself wanting to be home more. Guess I'm turning into a home body...

My energy is dissipating and it's getting harder to get up in the morning, but I'm still doing it and still thankful for my new life. I'm keeping to the food changes pretty well, though I wasn't great this weekend. However - I was out of town so hey :)

Below is the log of my meals. It's Mama's week to cook this week, but she is trying some new recipes so I'll share those as the week progresses. What she is making right now is smelling good - making me hungry :)

For those leaving who are not interested in the food log I wish you a great day! I hope you are doing well and wish you a terrific evening. May the Lord bless you with a great night sleep and a terrific evening.

2/5
Breakfast:
1/2 Grapefruit
2 Pieces of Oatmeal Raisin Bread

Lunch/Second Breakfast
- 4 Pieces of French Toast (Restaurant)
- Sugar Free Syrup with Powdered Sugar :)
- 1 link of sausage
- 3 cups of Coffee

Snacks
- Sunchips
- Orange

Dinner
- Roast with Veggies and White Rice
- Chicken & Dumplings
- 2 Biscuits
- Tea

Desert
- Banana Pudding

2/6
Breakfast
1/2 Grapefruit
Water

Lunch/2nd Breakfast
- 4 Pieces of French Toast (Huddle House)
- Coffee - 2 Cups
- Sugar Free Syrup

Snacks
- Low Fat Caramel Popcorn
- Banana Pudding

Dinner
- Tomato Basil Chicken (recipe linked last week)
- Field Peas (canned)
- Pumpernickel Bread
- Salad with low fat Dijon Mustard

Monday 2/7

Breakfast
- Oatmeal
- Banana Raisin Bread (homemade), not as good as the Orange/Blueberry bread from last week but good. It is good I just don't like it as much.
- Coffee

Lunch
- Left over Basil Chicken
- Salad
- Bread
- Apple Juice

Dinner
- Chicken & Rice Casserole (and old favorite, but cooked with brown rice), couldn't tell difference
- Tomato and Cucumber Salad
- English Peas with Carrots (canned)
- Tea

Friday!

TGIF! The week has been good, but hey - who isn't glad to see the the weekend come?

We are going to see my brother this weekend in Yulee (an hour east of Jacksonville). I'm looking forward to the visit as well as the escape from here. Not that here is bad, but a change of scenery will be good. So if I'm silent till Monday you know why :)

Things are still going well. Work is work and I'm thankful for the job. I'm getting stuff done and feel good about it. The lady I work with daily is doing a terrific job and while we have some hiccups we are working through them well. Its a great thing and I'm grateful for it.

I didn't get to do my cardio last night due to an eye appt, but I did get the weight lifting in. I think I need to push myself a bit more in the cardio arena, but we are enjoying the adventure.

Last night I didn't really try anything new at dinner other than roasting veggies. It was a recipe out of a book and you could really do any veggie. Heat oven to 475 and put veggies in a roasting pan or glass dish as I did. Roast them for 10 to 15 minutes until soft. I did asparagus, zucchini, broccoli, onions, and carrots. (you cut everything into small pieces, small sticks of carrot etc...) I don't think I'll do the broccoli again and the asparagus was a little gummy but everything else was great. I also put some salt/pepper on them. Super easy and good - I give it 4 stars and will cook it again.

- Steak :) always yummy and only read meat I've cooked this week.
- Left Overs from previous meals of the week - Clean out the fridge Thursday :)

Only thing I ended up throwing out of any quantity was the Zucchini Saute, next time I make it I need to cut it in 1/2 - it makes way too much for 3 people.

For breakfast

-Oatmeal
-Raisin Bread
-Coffee

For Lunch
-Left Over Meatloaf
-Left over Veggies from previous meals
-Tea

Snack
-Grapes

And with that I'll wish you a dynamite Friday! I hope its full of joy and good things. TGIF!