Woke up to check if my baby's flight from Barcelona was on time. Three hour delay, will never make connection to Buffalo.
Text him - R u planning on coming home? He calls. Will be staying overnight at JFK hotel. Great, want me to hop on a flight and we can hang out in NYC until your morning flight? Resounding NO. He is fine with friends will see me in the morning.
Thinking of flying out anyway.
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
He's Coming Home Today
Tonight my baby returns from Spain. I cannot wait to see him as he has been gone for months (ok 10 days but it feels like 10 months). It's going to be a great Wednesday!
I kept a list of all the things I wanted to remember to tell him, like how dad tried to pick up a pizza from a location other than where he ordered it... how I finally found the shirt he has been looking for... how the neighbor ticked me off regarding his weeds... the status of the BP clean up... the article on college requirements...how the dog kept his smelly lacrosse socks under the table and would bite me every time I attempted a take over... how his nieces couldn't understand why he wasn't at the party ("he could just go back to Spain after he plays with us"). I don't want him to miss anything we did, or saw or heard when he was gone.
I envision him running from the gate and hugging me with yells of "I really missed you". We'll talk non-stop on the way home. I'll make one of his favorite meals and he will eat like he's never had food. He'll love the new room improvements. We'll stay up all night looking at photos and hearing about his adventures.
What will really happen, is a brief kiss in front of his friends. A few yes /no answers on the way home, drive thru at Mighty Taco, and off to bed. I am sure he will be exhausted.
But hope survives because I have him all day Thursday!
I kept a list of all the things I wanted to remember to tell him, like how dad tried to pick up a pizza from a location other than where he ordered it... how I finally found the shirt he has been looking for... how the neighbor ticked me off regarding his weeds... the status of the BP clean up... the article on college requirements...how the dog kept his smelly lacrosse socks under the table and would bite me every time I attempted a take over... how his nieces couldn't understand why he wasn't at the party ("he could just go back to Spain after he plays with us"). I don't want him to miss anything we did, or saw or heard when he was gone.
I envision him running from the gate and hugging me with yells of "I really missed you". We'll talk non-stop on the way home. I'll make one of his favorite meals and he will eat like he's never had food. He'll love the new room improvements. We'll stay up all night looking at photos and hearing about his adventures.
What will really happen, is a brief kiss in front of his friends. A few yes /no answers on the way home, drive thru at Mighty Taco, and off to bed. I am sure he will be exhausted.
But hope survives because I have him all day Thursday!
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Respect your painters
I had another great idea. While my son is traveling Spain, I will paint his room. This project will create the illusion of being with him, while finally tackling a very necessary home improvement. The voice of reason (my husband) clearly stated this was a bad idea and that I should "just hire someone". That sound advice was greeted with "What am I so weak that I can't even pain a room? Do you think I am too stupid to buy paint? Is this what a complete waste of space you see me as?" Maybe a bit of an overreaction but he acquiesced with "do as you like".
My son's room is huge with 9 1/2 foot ceilings, 2 inch ceiling molding, about 18 in ornate baseboard, cracked walls, marble fireplace and hardwoods that are older that the trees on our street. Maybe a little daunting, but seriously how hard can it be to paint a room? Didn't we used to do this with our fingers in preschool?
I've never liked the prep part of things. For me, its jump in with both feet. Not a really good plan when painting. So I ignored the entire room of partially used painting supplies we have in the basement and instead took my American Express card to Home Depo. Four gallons of paint, paint brushes, scraper, tarp, rags, tape, and some trim paint samples were loaded into the car and I was prepared. That's what I like to call the good ole days pre implementation.
Fast forward 5 days later. I have spent at least 40 hours on this project. The room looks worse than it did when I started and my son returns in two days. He will be "thrilled" to see the updates. His waterbed is torn apart and empty. His baseboards are splatter with "french grey" and his floors are now streaked. Did you know that if you paint over a wall with a crack in it, it only gets worse? I do now. Additionally, his room is cluttered with paint cans, tarp, paint brushes and the like. Did I mention I do not have the energy to put up all the posters, boards and junk he likes on his wall?
Time to recoup. Running to purchase new curtains, quilts, sheets, posters and furniture to hide the hideous walls. Maybe a giant silk tree to hide the corner fiasco. Oh and a very big rug or not. No time to hire a painter - will have to schedule one for when he goes to camp in August.
Next, how to handle the voice of reason and "I told you so".
My son's room is huge with 9 1/2 foot ceilings, 2 inch ceiling molding, about 18 in ornate baseboard, cracked walls, marble fireplace and hardwoods that are older that the trees on our street. Maybe a little daunting, but seriously how hard can it be to paint a room? Didn't we used to do this with our fingers in preschool?
I've never liked the prep part of things. For me, its jump in with both feet. Not a really good plan when painting. So I ignored the entire room of partially used painting supplies we have in the basement and instead took my American Express card to Home Depo. Four gallons of paint, paint brushes, scraper, tarp, rags, tape, and some trim paint samples were loaded into the car and I was prepared. That's what I like to call the good ole days pre implementation.
Fast forward 5 days later. I have spent at least 40 hours on this project. The room looks worse than it did when I started and my son returns in two days. He will be "thrilled" to see the updates. His waterbed is torn apart and empty. His baseboards are splatter with "french grey" and his floors are now streaked. Did you know that if you paint over a wall with a crack in it, it only gets worse? I do now. Additionally, his room is cluttered with paint cans, tarp, paint brushes and the like. Did I mention I do not have the energy to put up all the posters, boards and junk he likes on his wall?
Time to recoup. Running to purchase new curtains, quilts, sheets, posters and furniture to hide the hideous walls. Maybe a giant silk tree to hide the corner fiasco. Oh and a very big rug or not. No time to hire a painter - will have to schedule one for when he goes to camp in August.
Next, how to handle the voice of reason and "I told you so".
Monday, June 28, 2010
Banner night
Although I would consider our social life pretty full, most would consider is tame and mellow. Getting crazy is now splitting a bottle of wine AND ordering dessert, coming home around midnight and MAYBE hitting the dance floor. So of course we could not possibly have experienced the night described below, which came back slowly after waking up realizing someone lost her purse.
Starting off easy enough at 6 pm with a clam bake for a local politician. They only served beer, so this woman simply drank water (oh what good intentions). The fun started with a trip to the rest room. Asking for some tp from the person with large shoes in the next stall, this fairly large hand came peeking under the wall with paper. At the sink, it is obvious that hand belonged to a very large, very sweet transvestite. What an eclectic crowd.
As this women sits on the rocks facing the water to eat her hotdog, her lovely purple sun dress is swept by the wind and flashes two crew teams. Luckily no injuries to the team. Met some hysterical people then decided to move on. She is starting to relax.
Next stop, favorite watering hole. Bartender offers wine samples and tells his story. After a bottle of vino and some amazing appetizers, this man and woman decide to meet up with friends, one of whose boyfriend is the percussionist in the band. She is feeling loose.
The crowd is moving. Band is amazing. The details get sketchy here but as the man mentioned, he was hanging with the "Sex and the City" gals. Amazing crowd, knew a ton of people, dancing, drinking, laughing, dancing, drinking. What the hell are "duck fries" cuz she is eating a ton of them? Tennis friend is shaking it with the guy in the panama hat and white suit. Did someone just do a split on the dance floor? Oh the ladies are getting crazy. He says its time to call it a night. Nope, the couple meets his partner and date so they go to his place.
Cocktails and music on the balcony of his penthouse. Champagne? Celebrating existence. More music, more dancing, more drinking, more laughing...
It's 10 am and this couple is just getting out of bed. Her purse is gone..maybe the bar? Maybe the friend? No cell, no wallet, no glasses, no keys. Lots of water, lots of Tylenol. The couple is smiling.
We are old people who would never stay out until 3:30 am. So this could not possibly be us.
Starting off easy enough at 6 pm with a clam bake for a local politician. They only served beer, so this woman simply drank water (oh what good intentions). The fun started with a trip to the rest room. Asking for some tp from the person with large shoes in the next stall, this fairly large hand came peeking under the wall with paper. At the sink, it is obvious that hand belonged to a very large, very sweet transvestite. What an eclectic crowd.
As this women sits on the rocks facing the water to eat her hotdog, her lovely purple sun dress is swept by the wind and flashes two crew teams. Luckily no injuries to the team. Met some hysterical people then decided to move on. She is starting to relax.
Next stop, favorite watering hole. Bartender offers wine samples and tells his story. After a bottle of vino and some amazing appetizers, this man and woman decide to meet up with friends, one of whose boyfriend is the percussionist in the band. She is feeling loose.
The crowd is moving. Band is amazing. The details get sketchy here but as the man mentioned, he was hanging with the "Sex and the City" gals. Amazing crowd, knew a ton of people, dancing, drinking, laughing, dancing, drinking. What the hell are "duck fries" cuz she is eating a ton of them? Tennis friend is shaking it with the guy in the panama hat and white suit. Did someone just do a split on the dance floor? Oh the ladies are getting crazy. He says its time to call it a night. Nope, the couple meets his partner and date so they go to his place.
Cocktails and music on the balcony of his penthouse. Champagne? Celebrating existence. More music, more dancing, more drinking, more laughing...
It's 10 am and this couple is just getting out of bed. Her purse is gone..maybe the bar? Maybe the friend? No cell, no wallet, no glasses, no keys. Lots of water, lots of Tylenol. The couple is smiling.
We are old people who would never stay out until 3:30 am. So this could not possibly be us.
Sunday, June 27, 2010
Start the day right
My thoughtful husband created a romantic one night get away on the water last night. Although the photo does not do it justice, this is the view that greeted me this morning.
WIth a start like this, how can the day be anything but beautiful.
Saturday, June 26, 2010
Boys Facing Bleak Future As Men
The Atlantic magazine ran an enlightening article this past month on the State of the American Male. It was brimming with stats on how women have become the dominate force based on college graduations, work force populations, overall genetics and more. As a woman, I was intrigued and frankly pretty excited about the article. Then I remembered I have a teenage boy and thought about what the world would like for him as an adult male.
About 5 years ago, I was speaking with a very brilliant friend about the lack of magazine presence available to boys. Whether you agree with the content or not, girls have American Girl, Cosmo, Teen Beat and the like. You have the unisex mags like National Geographic and Time, or adult sporting mags but not a whole lot focused on the teem boy. At the same time, I was reading about the differences in the way boys learn versus girls and how our current education system employs techniques favoring girls mode of learning. Girls have much higher math and science grades and are graduating from colleges at a higher rate. Sadly we are still unrepresented in the top paying and most senior roles but that's another story.
Just yesterday the Boys and School E-Newsletter ran an article on hypertension signals for boys. In a nutshell, normal blood pressures in boys are really warning signs for future hypertension. So why not make the blood pressure norm lower so that parents can see early warning signs and react?
I don't see much being done to focus on gender differences in teenagers and I am concerned that our boys today will struggle as men.
About 5 years ago, I was speaking with a very brilliant friend about the lack of magazine presence available to boys. Whether you agree with the content or not, girls have American Girl, Cosmo, Teen Beat and the like. You have the unisex mags like National Geographic and Time, or adult sporting mags but not a whole lot focused on the teem boy. At the same time, I was reading about the differences in the way boys learn versus girls and how our current education system employs techniques favoring girls mode of learning. Girls have much higher math and science grades and are graduating from colleges at a higher rate. Sadly we are still unrepresented in the top paying and most senior roles but that's another story.
Just yesterday the Boys and School E-Newsletter ran an article on hypertension signals for boys. In a nutshell, normal blood pressures in boys are really warning signs for future hypertension. So why not make the blood pressure norm lower so that parents can see early warning signs and react?
I don't see much being done to focus on gender differences in teenagers and I am concerned that our boys today will struggle as men.
Friday, June 25, 2010
Ready to Move
Before having our baby, my husband and I moved frequently. No we were not being chased by the law. It was just a matter of career options and housing desires. Our decision to move to Buffalo brought us to a great little house in the University district and later as our baby was growing, we were able to upgrade to our current home.
Now I am ready to move again. We have been in Buffalo 14 years (longer than we stayed anywhere) and have been in this house for about 9. If it was up to me, we would leave Buffalo. Not that I don't like it here, its just that I am ready for a change and even a new beginning. But that is not now possible as my husband's practice is established here and our son has his roots here. So the next best thing would be to move locally.
I love my house and it has been perfect for entertaining and raising a child. Now however it seems too big, with too many necessary repairs. Months go by where we don't even see half of the rooms. So after a trip to a friend's new penthouse downtown, my husband and I got the bug to move. Realistically, we won't sell this house until our baby is in college but seeing as that is only 4 years away, it certainly doesn't hurt to look.
Last night we looked and I loved! Friends of ours built a beautiful place downtown. It has everything you could want in a condo: state of the art kitchen, huge closets, maid service, valet service and the most beautiful views of Buffalo. It doesn't have leaky faucets, decrepit windows, chipped paint and a basement from the Stone Age.
Now we are thinking of downsizing. The unit we viewed is less than half the size of our house but twice the price. Downsizing would refer to the actual living space not financial commitment. It is a little exciting to think that we will have another new beginning when our son moves out (as horrid as it will be to have him leave).
I think this will be a new diversion for me. A long term strategy to find and prepare for a new homestead. I have at least 4 years so no need to rush. In such a short span of time, I have really changed my opinions on what I want in a home. Our list for this house included large living space, floor for out of town guests, big yard, old charm. This new list would not include any of those items.
Thursday, June 24, 2010
No Job Too Low
This week the disgraced lobbyist Jack Abramoff started his new career upon leaving prison: pizza boy. Based on the lack of moral judgement and the illegal nature of his work ethics as a political big shot, I would say he deserves to be sweating it out tossing dough above a hot oven.
Then again, I can't image how he must feel. How do you go from being a mover/shaker with a huge income and lot of political pull to a $10 an hour cook? His new professional network probably consists of high school kids. Can you image what it would be like to be 16 years old creating pies next to Abramoff?
I can't help but see his situation similar to the non-working mom. You're an education woman who was at the height of your career (Jackie boy as a accomplished lobbyist) ... then you had your baby (Jack's poor ethical decision) ... then you decide to stay at home to raise your child (prison sentence for our "hero") and then you decide you want to re-enter the workforce (released from prison and trying to rebuild his life). Certainly I am not saying that having a child is a prison sentence, but it is interesting that both individuals are looking at the same career opportunities, even though one focused on family and the other focused on fraud.
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Need iPad
I would consider myself a bit of a techno geek. Although I may not always purchase the latest gadgets, I love learning about new technology advancements and playing with online apps. Similarly, I consider myself a fairly good cook. Although I do not always make the dishes I admire in the mags, I review them with a gusto. My hobby worlds are helping each other today, as I find that GOURMET Magazine will be revived as an iPad application. Now I have treason to purchase the new iPad!
Is the $899 cost of an iPad justified by making a few gourmet meals? Oh I think so.
Is the $899 cost of an iPad justified by making a few gourmet meals? Oh I think so.
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Lax Tourney
"Mom I made the team!" ecstatic streams coming from his bedroom. It started out innocently enough. His lacrosse coach suggested try outs for an elite travel team. We didn't give it much thought: went to the try outs, joked that there was no way he could play with these amazing athletes, congratulated him on giving it a try, and forgot about it. He made it? Thrilled, amazed, proud...but wait that means we have weekend tournaments OUT OF TOWN. Oh the bittersweet taste of acceptance.
If you have never been an athlete, or are first time parents of an athlete, the travel tournament is like reading a Kurt Vonnegrut Jr., not really sure where you are or what is going on but it all comes together in the end.
It starts with the date and list of hotels. No problem, we book a room in this very less than 5 star hotel, we schedule time off and MapQuest directions. One weekend tournament in Lewiston (terrific no need for hotel), one weekend in Albany and one weekend in Hershey PA. So the husband's not thrilled that he will miss 3 weekends on the boat, but the three us will be together and our son is excited.
Next we get the schedule, which looks like a page out of the MATRIX. A spreadsheet of 50 teams, 14 fields and 48 hours. So 6/20 11 12 38 vs 16 9 1 26 vs 38 9 3 38 vs 47 6/21 7 10 38 vs 18 8 2 48 vs 38... do I need to call Dan Brown to break this code?
Game day. Pack sandwiches, tons of water and gatorade, fruit, brownies. Program navigation system. Bring chairs, hats, umbrella, sun screen, newspaper, schedule and of course my equipped lacrosse player. Huge line to get in. I have never seen so many canopy tents and SUV's. A patchwork of boys dressed in their uniforms tossing balls to each other. My son finds his "colors" while my husband and I wonder aimlessly lugging chairs and liquids.
Oh sweet relief, we find seasoned parents. These guys know what they are doing and we have virtually attached ourselves to them. Dave and Dawn become our guru's and we follow them like apostles. First game is rocky and our boys take a loss. But they are laughing with each other and really bonding. The rest of the day continues with another loss and then a win. Not bad for a new team.
Driving home that night, the car was buzzing with referee calls, bad plays, and tales of bravado. Home that night, the house buzzed with one sleepy midfielder. Next day more of the same but with confidence from son and parents.
We did it! Albany and Hershey? Bring it!
If you have never been an athlete, or are first time parents of an athlete, the travel tournament is like reading a Kurt Vonnegrut Jr., not really sure where you are or what is going on but it all comes together in the end.
It starts with the date and list of hotels. No problem, we book a room in this very less than 5 star hotel, we schedule time off and MapQuest directions. One weekend tournament in Lewiston (terrific no need for hotel), one weekend in Albany and one weekend in Hershey PA. So the husband's not thrilled that he will miss 3 weekends on the boat, but the three us will be together and our son is excited.
Next we get the schedule, which looks like a page out of the MATRIX. A spreadsheet of 50 teams, 14 fields and 48 hours. So 6/20 11 12 38 vs 16 9 1 26 vs 38 9 3 38 vs 47 6/21 7 10 38 vs 18 8 2 48 vs 38... do I need to call Dan Brown to break this code?
Game day. Pack sandwiches, tons of water and gatorade, fruit, brownies. Program navigation system. Bring chairs, hats, umbrella, sun screen, newspaper, schedule and of course my equipped lacrosse player. Huge line to get in. I have never seen so many canopy tents and SUV's. A patchwork of boys dressed in their uniforms tossing balls to each other. My son finds his "colors" while my husband and I wonder aimlessly lugging chairs and liquids.
Oh sweet relief, we find seasoned parents. These guys know what they are doing and we have virtually attached ourselves to them. Dave and Dawn become our guru's and we follow them like apostles. First game is rocky and our boys take a loss. But they are laughing with each other and really bonding. The rest of the day continues with another loss and then a win. Not bad for a new team.
Driving home that night, the car was buzzing with referee calls, bad plays, and tales of bravado. Home that night, the house buzzed with one sleepy midfielder. Next day more of the same but with confidence from son and parents.
We did it! Albany and Hershey? Bring it!
Monday, June 21, 2010
Cutting the umbilical cord
Today my baby leaves for a 10 day trip to Spain. I am wearing a happy face, spewing last minute cautions and encouraging him to have a wonderful time. But I am selfish and don't want him to be gone so far away and for so long.
Last fall he came home from school and asked if he could go to Spain with his classl. When pressed for details, all I got was "Everyone's going, don't worry Anthony's brother is 16 and he will chaperone us". Great as along as there is such strong supervision. Well of course there was a lot more I needed to know, but there was no way I was going to stop him from such an adventurous experience. I kept thinking how much he will see and how his eyes will be opened to cultures and people that I had never seen.
Besides Madrid is really only about 4,00 miles away, why should I be so concerned? Well the real fear started when that volcano erupted and every TSA headline included "ash cloud". Then the images of rioters while the Greek economy collapsed. How about protestors after Israel's boat strike? It's not that I think he will be safer in the US and its not like I believe he will be targeted overseas. It's just that I won't be there. Maybe this is good practice because in the immediate future I won't be there a lot...I want to be there but let's face it I really can't.
I'd like to say I am going to spend these next several days working on myself; exercising daily, writing more, finishing some house projects. But most likely I will obsess about his trip. I will follow him online from Madrid to Burgos to San Sebastian to Barcelona and on and on until he is back at the Buffalo airport.
Last fall he came home from school and asked if he could go to Spain with his classl. When pressed for details, all I got was "Everyone's going, don't worry Anthony's brother is 16 and he will chaperone us". Great as along as there is such strong supervision. Well of course there was a lot more I needed to know, but there was no way I was going to stop him from such an adventurous experience. I kept thinking how much he will see and how his eyes will be opened to cultures and people that I had never seen.
Besides Madrid is really only about 4,00 miles away, why should I be so concerned? Well the real fear started when that volcano erupted and every TSA headline included "ash cloud". Then the images of rioters while the Greek economy collapsed. How about protestors after Israel's boat strike? It's not that I think he will be safer in the US and its not like I believe he will be targeted overseas. It's just that I won't be there. Maybe this is good practice because in the immediate future I won't be there a lot...I want to be there but let's face it I really can't.
I'd like to say I am going to spend these next several days working on myself; exercising daily, writing more, finishing some house projects. But most likely I will obsess about his trip. I will follow him online from Madrid to Burgos to San Sebastian to Barcelona and on and on until he is back at the Buffalo airport.
Safe trip my luv!
Sunday, June 20, 2010
Stamp Fiasco
Why do these things always happen to me? My husband answers that questions with " because you are not paying attention to what you are doing, you are always in a rush, and you do too many things at the same time". I prefer to believe its some mystical curse.
I rarely use postage stamps. Most of my correspondence is via email. My bills are paid using online bill pay and the only time I really use snail mail is to write a thoughtful thank you or when an online bill is inappropriate. For efficiency sake, I keep a roll of stamps in my upper left hand desk drawer. It is at my downstairs desk that I write any correspondence so that makes the most sense. They sit in the same bin as my return address labels.
This weekend I had a fairly large amount of mail to distribute. My son wrote out about a dozen thank you notes, I wrote a large tuition check, a check to a political fund raiser and 3 positive RSVPs. Really feeling on top of everything at this point. My desk is clean and I am good to go.
Last night, I am writing out another check and rsvp only to have my husband notice that the stamps I am using are 39 cent ones. Being the postage idiot I am, I say "yeah so"? He informs me that it now costs $.44 to mail a letter and why am I using old stamps. Ah cuz I didn't realize they were old stamps.
What a nightmare. Now, I have no idea how long this has been going on. I have not received anything back in the mail (thankfully I always use a return postage stamp) and I have no way of remembering what I have sent out with said old stamps. I hear it can take upwards of 2 months to get poorly postage mail sent back to your residence. Now what?
Do I ask my son to rewrite all of his thank you cards or simply let people think he has no manners? Do I resend rsvp's with new checks, call hostesses late or simply pass on all the events I never really responded to? Do I call the school and drop off another tuition check or hope the US Postal Service cuts me some slack on this $.05 discrepancy?
I will only buy those stamps that are good forever, from now on. I had no idea such a stupid little task could cause me so much grief. I hate stamps.
I rarely use postage stamps. Most of my correspondence is via email. My bills are paid using online bill pay and the only time I really use snail mail is to write a thoughtful thank you or when an online bill is inappropriate. For efficiency sake, I keep a roll of stamps in my upper left hand desk drawer. It is at my downstairs desk that I write any correspondence so that makes the most sense. They sit in the same bin as my return address labels.
This weekend I had a fairly large amount of mail to distribute. My son wrote out about a dozen thank you notes, I wrote a large tuition check, a check to a political fund raiser and 3 positive RSVPs. Really feeling on top of everything at this point. My desk is clean and I am good to go.
Last night, I am writing out another check and rsvp only to have my husband notice that the stamps I am using are 39 cent ones. Being the postage idiot I am, I say "yeah so"? He informs me that it now costs $.44 to mail a letter and why am I using old stamps. Ah cuz I didn't realize they were old stamps.
What a nightmare. Now, I have no idea how long this has been going on. I have not received anything back in the mail (thankfully I always use a return postage stamp) and I have no way of remembering what I have sent out with said old stamps. I hear it can take upwards of 2 months to get poorly postage mail sent back to your residence. Now what?
Do I ask my son to rewrite all of his thank you cards or simply let people think he has no manners? Do I resend rsvp's with new checks, call hostesses late or simply pass on all the events I never really responded to? Do I call the school and drop off another tuition check or hope the US Postal Service cuts me some slack on this $.05 discrepancy?
I will only buy those stamps that are good forever, from now on. I had no idea such a stupid little task could cause me so much grief. I hate stamps.
Saturday, June 19, 2010
Scared of Leaks
As someone who has been plagued by leaky faucets and a leaky roof, I can honestly say that leaks scare me. But those aren't the kind of leaks frightening me today. Today, I am referring to leaks by whistleblowers.
I recently discovered a site called Wikileaks.com which is apparently a platform for whistleblowers, journalists and activists (just about anyone) to publish sensitive material to the public. It's a little embarrassing that this site has been around for many years and I am just finding it.
At first I was intrigued but skeptical, thinking it just another "conspiracy-theory" type outlet. But in reading some of the articles I am becoming less skeptical. I am a fan of transparency, specifically when it refers to the actions of our government. But I have to add that I am frightened about what I will see.
It is easy to pass judgement about a decision after the decision was made. It is even easier to close one's eyes and assume that the world is working as it should, with everyone making the right and just decisions. But how do you do that when a site is available exposing corruption and lies and basically laying out the dirty laundry for all to see? I hate to admit it but I would have preferred this pandora's box to have remained closed and for me to continue as an ostrich hiding my head.
Then I drum up some courage and realize this is a public service. A way to potentially help the average Joe who goes out on a limb to uncover a morally wrong or illegal activity. Maybe a way to uncover fiscal irresponsibility before that irresponsibility takes down Wall Street.
I have book marked this page with the hopes of learning and understanding more about the world I live in. More knowledge should help me make better decisions about organizations and politicians that I support. Let's hope I gain insight without freakin' out and joining some obscure anti-government regime. Check it out.
I recently discovered a site called Wikileaks.com which is apparently a platform for whistleblowers, journalists and activists (just about anyone) to publish sensitive material to the public. It's a little embarrassing that this site has been around for many years and I am just finding it.
At first I was intrigued but skeptical, thinking it just another "conspiracy-theory" type outlet. But in reading some of the articles I am becoming less skeptical. I am a fan of transparency, specifically when it refers to the actions of our government. But I have to add that I am frightened about what I will see.
It is easy to pass judgement about a decision after the decision was made. It is even easier to close one's eyes and assume that the world is working as it should, with everyone making the right and just decisions. But how do you do that when a site is available exposing corruption and lies and basically laying out the dirty laundry for all to see? I hate to admit it but I would have preferred this pandora's box to have remained closed and for me to continue as an ostrich hiding my head.
Then I drum up some courage and realize this is a public service. A way to potentially help the average Joe who goes out on a limb to uncover a morally wrong or illegal activity. Maybe a way to uncover fiscal irresponsibility before that irresponsibility takes down Wall Street.
I have book marked this page with the hopes of learning and understanding more about the world I live in. More knowledge should help me make better decisions about organizations and politicians that I support. Let's hope I gain insight without freakin' out and joining some obscure anti-government regime. Check it out.
Friday, June 18, 2010
Want Ads
I love the term Want Ads. How awesome would it be to send out all your wants and just have people apply to grant them... I want a pair of Christian Loubotins...I want to lose 10 pounds...I want to forgive ... I want to less stressed... and BOOM you get what you want. Maybe in a parallel universe.
Although I like the term, I have not reviewed or responded to a job posting in about 10 years. My career has moved via found opportunities through colleagues or friends. Over the past few months, I have had friends suggest several positions. One I really wanted but a huge miscommunication about money dictated a pass on my side. The other opportunity showed great potential until I met the 5th SVP and realized that their bureaucracy and my impatience would never work. Six weeks later they came to the same conclusion.
So here I sit, ready to work again...or am I? Looking at my summer schedule I will be employed as a cab driver for a teenager. Crew camp 9 -12, algebra refresher 2 - 3:30, weight training 9 -11, football clinic 6-8, lacrosse games 2 full weekends out of town. With this in mind, what would my want ad look like?
Experienced executive wants full time position in progressive company. Desires great responsibilities and challenging environment. Will work when convenient for her. Will consider all offers over six figures. Will not suffer fools. Will start immediately, unless it is a day in which she is already busy.
Any ideas on where I could find such a position? Guessing the traditional Want Ads may not suit my purposes here.
Although I like the term, I have not reviewed or responded to a job posting in about 10 years. My career has moved via found opportunities through colleagues or friends. Over the past few months, I have had friends suggest several positions. One I really wanted but a huge miscommunication about money dictated a pass on my side. The other opportunity showed great potential until I met the 5th SVP and realized that their bureaucracy and my impatience would never work. Six weeks later they came to the same conclusion.
So here I sit, ready to work again...or am I? Looking at my summer schedule I will be employed as a cab driver for a teenager. Crew camp 9 -12, algebra refresher 2 - 3:30, weight training 9 -11, football clinic 6-8, lacrosse games 2 full weekends out of town. With this in mind, what would my want ad look like?
Experienced executive wants full time position in progressive company. Desires great responsibilities and challenging environment. Will work when convenient for her. Will consider all offers over six figures. Will not suffer fools. Will start immediately, unless it is a day in which she is already busy.
Any ideas on where I could find such a position? Guessing the traditional Want Ads may not suit my purposes here.
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Unplugged
The NY Times had an interesting article on parenting while plugged in that introduced the trouble with parents who spend more time on social media or smart phones and less time speaking to their kids. When I started reading it, I thought how horrible that these parents aren't paying enough attention to their kids. Then I thought about it and realized I may sometimes be that parent.
Granted my son is not a toddler any longer. But when he was only 3 weeks old, I recall sitting in front of my computer on the floor while I rocked him with my foot. I was checking work email (couldn't bear to be away from the office grind in those days). My husband came into the room asking me what the hell I was thinking? I had no idea what he was talking about until he revealed that I was so engrossed in my work that I was rocking the baby at a pace that could have launched him into the ceiling.
I don't think it's new for parents to be distracted with work efforts while trying to multitask as parents. I just think technology has made it so much easier to do. If you have kids you know that toddlers will stop a perfectly content play session to get your attention as soon as you are on the phone. But now you can take that phone to the playground or for a walk.
Recently my teenager slammed ipod and ripped the connected from the car outlet because as he was telling me about a new song that he wanted me to hear, I answered my OnStar to take a call. I realized how it made him feel pretty quickly and immediately told the caller I would get back to them. His face showed a bit of surprise but he smiled and even thanked me. Maybe I am not a lost cause.
Yesterday, he and I decided to bike to the marina for lunch. He purposefully left his phone at home and I put mine on vibrate on the bottom of my backpack. We did not speak continually throughout that ride or lunch but we were both "present" and engaged with each other. It was a terrific afternoon.
I think age and experience is telling me that it is ok to miss a call. Most items will wait and emergencies are usually not the norm. I am now putting "Unplug" on my to do list.
Granted my son is not a toddler any longer. But when he was only 3 weeks old, I recall sitting in front of my computer on the floor while I rocked him with my foot. I was checking work email (couldn't bear to be away from the office grind in those days). My husband came into the room asking me what the hell I was thinking? I had no idea what he was talking about until he revealed that I was so engrossed in my work that I was rocking the baby at a pace that could have launched him into the ceiling.
I don't think it's new for parents to be distracted with work efforts while trying to multitask as parents. I just think technology has made it so much easier to do. If you have kids you know that toddlers will stop a perfectly content play session to get your attention as soon as you are on the phone. But now you can take that phone to the playground or for a walk.
Recently my teenager slammed ipod and ripped the connected from the car outlet because as he was telling me about a new song that he wanted me to hear, I answered my OnStar to take a call. I realized how it made him feel pretty quickly and immediately told the caller I would get back to them. His face showed a bit of surprise but he smiled and even thanked me. Maybe I am not a lost cause.
Yesterday, he and I decided to bike to the marina for lunch. He purposefully left his phone at home and I put mine on vibrate on the bottom of my backpack. We did not speak continually throughout that ride or lunch but we were both "present" and engaged with each other. It was a terrific afternoon.
I think age and experience is telling me that it is ok to miss a call. Most items will wait and emergencies are usually not the norm. I am now putting "Unplug" on my to do list.
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Terrible Driver
I am a terrible driver. If you know me or have ever ridden with me you know this to be a completely true statement, maybe even an understatement.
It has taken me quite some time to come to this conclusion. I fought it and would not admit to myself that I was handicapped in this fashion. It started when I was 20, which coincidentally was the year I got my driver's license. Oh I took drivers ed in high school and even took a private driving course (thanks to my parents who really could not bear practicing with me). I just never felt inclined to get behind the wheel, not even when my parents bought my sister and I a Camero. Anyway, I totaled that car, after at least one previous collision. You can only guess how pleased my sister was about this. It really wasn't my fault; icy conditions, dark street, I was in a hurry.
I also blamed geography. I hit a parked car while driving a friends Cabriolet in San Francisco and I bent a fender while driving a rental car in Plano Texas.
It's not just accidents. My first speeding ticket was 20 miles over on the QEW from Detroit to Buffalo. But seriously, I had the sun roof open and the music blaring, it was summer and all. Cannot count all the speeding tickets but I have taken more mandated traffic classes than I have science classes. You know I should be able to drive faster as I am always in a hurry and being the danger I am on the road I would think they would want me off it as soon as possible.
After looking at my car today I have to admit it is me. The back fender is smashed due to a poorly placed bike rack. The front end is scraped due to a too tight garage and the side is dented due to a concrete parking sign. I think I may have a problem. I am too afraid to fix the car because I think I am only going to smash it again.
But I have to look on the bright side. As my son and I were driving to Wegmans, we saw this:
It has taken me quite some time to come to this conclusion. I fought it and would not admit to myself that I was handicapped in this fashion. It started when I was 20, which coincidentally was the year I got my driver's license. Oh I took drivers ed in high school and even took a private driving course (thanks to my parents who really could not bear practicing with me). I just never felt inclined to get behind the wheel, not even when my parents bought my sister and I a Camero. Anyway, I totaled that car, after at least one previous collision. You can only guess how pleased my sister was about this. It really wasn't my fault; icy conditions, dark street, I was in a hurry.
I also blamed geography. I hit a parked car while driving a friends Cabriolet in San Francisco and I bent a fender while driving a rental car in Plano Texas.
It's not just accidents. My first speeding ticket was 20 miles over on the QEW from Detroit to Buffalo. But seriously, I had the sun roof open and the music blaring, it was summer and all. Cannot count all the speeding tickets but I have taken more mandated traffic classes than I have science classes. You know I should be able to drive faster as I am always in a hurry and being the danger I am on the road I would think they would want me off it as soon as possible.
After looking at my car today I have to admit it is me. The back fender is smashed due to a poorly placed bike rack. The front end is scraped due to a too tight garage and the side is dented due to a concrete parking sign. I think I may have a problem. I am too afraid to fix the car because I think I am only going to smash it again.
But I have to look on the bright side. As my son and I were driving to Wegmans, we saw this:
At least my car never started on fire!!!
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Ring Pops and Silly Bands
When my husband and I had had our son we decided to move back to Buffalo, so that our child could experience the benefits of growing up with his extended family. We never anticipated what an amazing experience it would be for us to grow old with our extended family, specifically our nieces and nephews.
The entire family was over on Sunday and the kids, true to form, were wound up and crazy. I had spent the better part of the week, cleaning the house, shopping for cocktails and cooking, cooking, cooking. My husband, as usual, thought of the kids. He is so good at that. He makes sure there is always a special treat for the nieces and nephews. It has gotten so that our little niece Helana calls him "Uncle Matty the Candy Man". This party the treats included giant marshmallows, ring pops and silly bands.
The fun started with a conversation with the 5 year old Christel who informed me that she was using her play phone to call Noah. When I asked if that was her boyfriend, she very sternly said " No Auntie Bonnie, I have a crush on him that does not make him my boyfriend". Nice.
Next our dancer Avery came, still in her dance recital make up. I was able to lift and spin her a little before she saw the eldest girl Cameron. Everyone loves Cameron as she is the mother figure to all the girls. The boys Ethan and Gavin let me kiss their beautiful faces while they pretended to hate it. It's the price they have to pay to get to play video games with our teenager. I adore these guys.
Here is where it gets crazy. My adorable little nieces (3 and 4) came in and were in fabulously talkative moods. The little ones Nathan, Helena and Sophia found our son's play lazer guns and decided to attack. My brother had one on his leg, my husband battled with one on his arm and I was trapped in the kitchen. We were all laughing and falling down being attacked by the toddlers. I could not stop laughing. The only way to stop them was to throw giant marshmallows at the little rebels. So much for a clean house or a quiet evening - this was so much better.
The highlight came when my husband brought them all out to stand in line and bid for silly bands. The rationale of a 4 year old is incomparable. 20 minutes later they all had a bunch of bracelets and a bunch of ring pops. We love sending the kids home jacked up on sugar.
I truly hope the kids remember these parties fondly. As my son gets bigger, his cousins provide an excuse to act like a toddler. The same excuse they provide to us adults. Guess moving back to Buffalo was the right decision. Thank you my sweeties!
The entire family was over on Sunday and the kids, true to form, were wound up and crazy. I had spent the better part of the week, cleaning the house, shopping for cocktails and cooking, cooking, cooking. My husband, as usual, thought of the kids. He is so good at that. He makes sure there is always a special treat for the nieces and nephews. It has gotten so that our little niece Helana calls him "Uncle Matty the Candy Man". This party the treats included giant marshmallows, ring pops and silly bands.
The fun started with a conversation with the 5 year old Christel who informed me that she was using her play phone to call Noah. When I asked if that was her boyfriend, she very sternly said " No Auntie Bonnie, I have a crush on him that does not make him my boyfriend". Nice.
Next our dancer Avery came, still in her dance recital make up. I was able to lift and spin her a little before she saw the eldest girl Cameron. Everyone loves Cameron as she is the mother figure to all the girls. The boys Ethan and Gavin let me kiss their beautiful faces while they pretended to hate it. It's the price they have to pay to get to play video games with our teenager. I adore these guys.
Here is where it gets crazy. My adorable little nieces (3 and 4) came in and were in fabulously talkative moods. The little ones Nathan, Helena and Sophia found our son's play lazer guns and decided to attack. My brother had one on his leg, my husband battled with one on his arm and I was trapped in the kitchen. We were all laughing and falling down being attacked by the toddlers. I could not stop laughing. The only way to stop them was to throw giant marshmallows at the little rebels. So much for a clean house or a quiet evening - this was so much better.
The highlight came when my husband brought them all out to stand in line and bid for silly bands. The rationale of a 4 year old is incomparable. 20 minutes later they all had a bunch of bracelets and a bunch of ring pops. We love sending the kids home jacked up on sugar.
I truly hope the kids remember these parties fondly. As my son gets bigger, his cousins provide an excuse to act like a toddler. The same excuse they provide to us adults. Guess moving back to Buffalo was the right decision. Thank you my sweeties!
Monday, June 14, 2010
Race for the Cure
Over the past few years, three very good friends of mine were diagnosed with breast cancer. Thank God, they are each doing well now and have survived their experience with the poise and beauty that only these women could have displayed.
That first call from a friend who has to tell you her world and body are falling apart, is heartbreaking. It is difficult to to understand. You deal with fear for your friend but also a selfishness. I am not good in these situations and all I could do was to offer my support as a listener or to provide a meal or encouraging word through the recovery. It never felt like enough.
I am so grateful that these women are in my life and that they have made it through this horrible ordeal. I also understand that many more women have not been as lucky and that we need a cure. So last Saturday I participated in the Komen Race for the Cure, wearing my pink t-shirt and pinned number.
I think of all the special women in my life, but this weekend I was especially grateful for Dawn, Moira and Tricia. I love you ladies!
So many people were there offering their support, physically and financially. It was a great tribute to the caring neighbors in Buffalo. The race is not a end, it is a reminder that we all need to help fight breast cancer. If you are looking for a worthwhile cause, please consider a donation for your moms, sisters, girlfriends, wives and friends.
Susan G Komen Breast Cancer Foundation
That first call from a friend who has to tell you her world and body are falling apart, is heartbreaking. It is difficult to to understand. You deal with fear for your friend but also a selfishness. I am not good in these situations and all I could do was to offer my support as a listener or to provide a meal or encouraging word through the recovery. It never felt like enough.
I am so grateful that these women are in my life and that they have made it through this horrible ordeal. I also understand that many more women have not been as lucky and that we need a cure. So last Saturday I participated in the Komen Race for the Cure, wearing my pink t-shirt and pinned number.
I think of all the special women in my life, but this weekend I was especially grateful for Dawn, Moira and Tricia. I love you ladies!
So many people were there offering their support, physically and financially. It was a great tribute to the caring neighbors in Buffalo. The race is not a end, it is a reminder that we all need to help fight breast cancer. If you are looking for a worthwhile cause, please consider a donation for your moms, sisters, girlfriends, wives and friends.
Susan G Komen Breast Cancer Foundation
Saturday, June 12, 2010
Traffic Jam
Yesterday we made plans to take my brother and his boys on the boat for tubing and dinner. Spent the morning taking care of errands and the afternoon preparing for the evening's festivities. You know what they say about the best laid plans.
First, our son gets a late invite to a party and HAS to go. So after numerous calls coordinating and gaining help from friend's parents, I can salvage the evening. My nephews are thrilled he bailed on them, but there will be other times.
Next, my husband is late coming home, which means a 2:00 leave turns to 3:00. Still ok. Just call brother, who is also running late.
It's now 3:15 and we are packed and ready to relax. Jump in the car, hop on the 290 and stop. The traffic to Grand Island is out of control. Well there are other routes right? So leave 290, take River Road. Backed up worse. Still persistent, we take Elliciot Creek to Niagara Falls Blvd expecting to catch the bridge from the other end of the island. Not gonna happen as we are stopped on Elliciot Creek for what seems like an eternity.
Now my husband is livid and has had enough, I am car sick and feel a headache fast approaching. Brother calls from his traffic jam basically saying NO WAY. At 6 :10 we finally get out of traffic and find a restaurant with lots of cocktails.
So help me out, we have lived in Buffalo for the past 14 years and I have NEVER been in such a traffic situation. The Grand Island bridge was down to one lane, the 33 was blocked, the Maple/NF Blvd area is under construction. Has the city decided to do all road construction on the same weekend???
It's great that Art Park is having Friday night events and it is wonderful to feel like a real city that has weekend entertainment marked by lots of people in cars and its encouraging to see that our highways are being updated. But personally, it really sucked.
With the rare nice weather - time off combo, a missed opportunity is discouraging. At least I had some personal talk time with the husband. Surely, he must have been thrilled to spend 3 hours with me rambling in a traffic jam.
First, our son gets a late invite to a party and HAS to go. So after numerous calls coordinating and gaining help from friend's parents, I can salvage the evening. My nephews are thrilled he bailed on them, but there will be other times.
Next, my husband is late coming home, which means a 2:00 leave turns to 3:00. Still ok. Just call brother, who is also running late.
It's now 3:15 and we are packed and ready to relax. Jump in the car, hop on the 290 and stop. The traffic to Grand Island is out of control. Well there are other routes right? So leave 290, take River Road. Backed up worse. Still persistent, we take Elliciot Creek to Niagara Falls Blvd expecting to catch the bridge from the other end of the island. Not gonna happen as we are stopped on Elliciot Creek for what seems like an eternity.
Now my husband is livid and has had enough, I am car sick and feel a headache fast approaching. Brother calls from his traffic jam basically saying NO WAY. At 6 :10 we finally get out of traffic and find a restaurant with lots of cocktails.
So help me out, we have lived in Buffalo for the past 14 years and I have NEVER been in such a traffic situation. The Grand Island bridge was down to one lane, the 33 was blocked, the Maple/NF Blvd area is under construction. Has the city decided to do all road construction on the same weekend???
It's great that Art Park is having Friday night events and it is wonderful to feel like a real city that has weekend entertainment marked by lots of people in cars and its encouraging to see that our highways are being updated. But personally, it really sucked.
With the rare nice weather - time off combo, a missed opportunity is discouraging. At least I had some personal talk time with the husband. Surely, he must have been thrilled to spend 3 hours with me rambling in a traffic jam.
Friday, June 11, 2010
How much for a martini?
Did you know that Russia is considering more than doubling the price of vodka? We have dealt with the ramifications of Communism and the KGB but this may be too much to handle.
ABC news ran this report and it does seem like at least an effort to help combat the alcoholism facing our friends in Moscow. Not too mention helping the government financially with this tax.
My concern is a little more personal. How will higher vodka prices in Russia affect us? Will that mean my drink of choice will cost more? I just paid $12 for a martini at one of our favorite restaurants. I'll have to get a job to afford my drinking habit. Think of how much more it will cost me to host a party. In the summer I make these fabulously refreshing vodka drinks. It would ruin the integrity of the cocktail to use substandard US vodka.
Someone needs to keep an eye on this situation. I propose asking Sarah Palin to manage this potential nightmare of high cost vodka. Maybe she could look out of her window and see how much the Russians are drinking ad then skiddo over to the authorities.
In the meantime, we should all contemplate a way to combat high vodka prices, with a pitcher of these:
VODKA Cooler (serves 4)
2 cucumbers
1 cup mint leaves
2 teaspoons sugar
3 tablespoons lemon juice
1/2 cup vodka
ice cubes
Peel and seed cucumbers. Chop and then puree them until smooth. Fill cocktail shaker with ice and add mint, sugar and lemon. Shake and pour. Garnish with mint, lemon slice and cucumber slice. Enjoy!
ABC news ran this report and it does seem like at least an effort to help combat the alcoholism facing our friends in Moscow. Not too mention helping the government financially with this tax.
My concern is a little more personal. How will higher vodka prices in Russia affect us? Will that mean my drink of choice will cost more? I just paid $12 for a martini at one of our favorite restaurants. I'll have to get a job to afford my drinking habit. Think of how much more it will cost me to host a party. In the summer I make these fabulously refreshing vodka drinks. It would ruin the integrity of the cocktail to use substandard US vodka.
Someone needs to keep an eye on this situation. I propose asking Sarah Palin to manage this potential nightmare of high cost vodka. Maybe she could look out of her window and see how much the Russians are drinking ad then skiddo over to the authorities.
In the meantime, we should all contemplate a way to combat high vodka prices, with a pitcher of these:
VODKA Cooler (serves 4)
2 cucumbers
1 cup mint leaves
2 teaspoons sugar
3 tablespoons lemon juice
1/2 cup vodka
ice cubes
Peel and seed cucumbers. Chop and then puree them until smooth. Fill cocktail shaker with ice and add mint, sugar and lemon. Shake and pour. Garnish with mint, lemon slice and cucumber slice. Enjoy!
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Sucking It Up
So here is my most recent dilemma.
A couple of years ago, I was "wronged". A person who I barely knew, made what I consider an professionally unethical move which adversely affected myself and my family. No it was not life threatening but it was insulting, slanderous and caused me a great deal of emotional pain.
Of course, I fought back. I was like a caged wild animal. My fought involved going to her superior to ask for her resignation. That superior agreed that what she had done was wrong, however he felt that any emotional toil I experienced would "blow over" and stated that she was a very difficult person to deal with but she was good at her job. I did not continue this losing battle, simply decided that I (and my family) would avoid her at all costs and I continue to personally despise her very existence.
That stance had been working fine. Although she is friends with one of my friends, I have been able to ignore her at social events, refrain from beating her senseless when our paths do cross and keep her away from my family. Here is where is gets sad.
She is now in a position in which I need to "work" with her. I have no faith or trust in anything she does, regardless of her skill set but I have no choice in the matter. So today I had to write an email to this person requesting necessary information from her. I am stuck with her for the next 4 years and will need to converse regarding this "project" with her during that time frame. Basically she is in a position that is essential to this "project". If I do not, I will be hurting someone I love dearly.
Now what? I did not start this, I tried to take the high road by avoiding her and now I am screwed. This entire situation makes me nauseous and will continue to. I am trying to be the bigger person by feigning respect for her "skill set". I need her at this point and again it makes me sick.
So here I sit full of bile while I write straightforward emails and "beg" for her help. Not sure how I could have done this better. Sometimes you just feel like a punching bag.
A couple of years ago, I was "wronged". A person who I barely knew, made what I consider an professionally unethical move which adversely affected myself and my family. No it was not life threatening but it was insulting, slanderous and caused me a great deal of emotional pain.
Of course, I fought back. I was like a caged wild animal. My fought involved going to her superior to ask for her resignation. That superior agreed that what she had done was wrong, however he felt that any emotional toil I experienced would "blow over" and stated that she was a very difficult person to deal with but she was good at her job. I did not continue this losing battle, simply decided that I (and my family) would avoid her at all costs and I continue to personally despise her very existence.
That stance had been working fine. Although she is friends with one of my friends, I have been able to ignore her at social events, refrain from beating her senseless when our paths do cross and keep her away from my family. Here is where is gets sad.
She is now in a position in which I need to "work" with her. I have no faith or trust in anything she does, regardless of her skill set but I have no choice in the matter. So today I had to write an email to this person requesting necessary information from her. I am stuck with her for the next 4 years and will need to converse regarding this "project" with her during that time frame. Basically she is in a position that is essential to this "project". If I do not, I will be hurting someone I love dearly.
Now what? I did not start this, I tried to take the high road by avoiding her and now I am screwed. This entire situation makes me nauseous and will continue to. I am trying to be the bigger person by feigning respect for her "skill set". I need her at this point and again it makes me sick.
So here I sit full of bile while I write straightforward emails and "beg" for her help. Not sure how I could have done this better. Sometimes you just feel like a punching bag.
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Moving Up to High School
Today my son graduates from 8th grade; no more middle school. It's so cliche to say that time goes by quickly and to question how it seems like only yesterday since , but I cannot help but think about the changes we have experienced over the past 4 years.
I was thrilled when he received his acceptance letter from Nichols Middle School. His initial day of 5th grade was a camp sleep over to get to know each other. He couldn't wait to meet the new kids, to have his first camping trip overnight and to start middle school. That morning at 3:00 am he came into our room feeling odd. His left eye, lip and right hand were swelled up like a beaten boxer. He had some allergic reaction and was swelling like mad. After much worry, at trip to the ER and a lot of benodryl, we sent him off. We sat discussing what his next four years would be like if this was the start.
Today he is a different boy. Actually he is much more like a man than a boy. He has established close friendships with good kids and has learned not just about history, math and science but about himself and who his is becoming.
Days were not always good. There was the exercising of self, followed by detention. There was the first lie and ramifications for that choice. There was slipping of grades and painful lessons of responsibility. But there was also the first dance, the winning of the chess tournament, the guitar performance and the science olympiad medals.
I know high school is going to fly by and that we will experience even greater changes. That our young man will become more independent, more serious and more focused. Although today I am nostalgic for 5th grade and my little boy, I am looking forward to what high school will bring and to the man I will be looking at this time four years later.
I was thrilled when he received his acceptance letter from Nichols Middle School. His initial day of 5th grade was a camp sleep over to get to know each other. He couldn't wait to meet the new kids, to have his first camping trip overnight and to start middle school. That morning at 3:00 am he came into our room feeling odd. His left eye, lip and right hand were swelled up like a beaten boxer. He had some allergic reaction and was swelling like mad. After much worry, at trip to the ER and a lot of benodryl, we sent him off. We sat discussing what his next four years would be like if this was the start.
Today he is a different boy. Actually he is much more like a man than a boy. He has established close friendships with good kids and has learned not just about history, math and science but about himself and who his is becoming.
Days were not always good. There was the exercising of self, followed by detention. There was the first lie and ramifications for that choice. There was slipping of grades and painful lessons of responsibility. But there was also the first dance, the winning of the chess tournament, the guitar performance and the science olympiad medals.
I know high school is going to fly by and that we will experience even greater changes. That our young man will become more independent, more serious and more focused. Although today I am nostalgic for 5th grade and my little boy, I am looking forward to what high school will bring and to the man I will be looking at this time four years later.
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