Did I blink during Nurses' Week and suddenly it's August? Yes, I did. And Bubba reminded me today that in two weeks, he starts high school.
What's happened? My boss was removed, then two months later resigned. When I found out why, I wasn't surprised. Basically, being a bully comes back to get you.
Bubba went to MiddleState U's Science Camp again. He had fun. We picked him up and enjoyed a weekend hotel jaunt in a suite free (that's what happens when you save years of credit card points). We ate, drank and were merry. We wouldn't miss our designated IHOP stop for anything, because it's become a tradition.
The summer of the first year of Trump has been heartening. I last switched jobs fortuitously right before the big 2008 crash.
I'm ready again, but I'm older and more leery. There are some things to be said for basic security, short commutes and decent benefits. All the folks at the Hotel eligible are getting out as soon as they can.
Nevertheless, I'm preparing for whatever fall might bring.
Stay tuned.
Showing posts with label Bubba. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Bubba. Show all posts
Wednesday, August 2, 2017
Sunday, November 20, 2016
I'm praying...
For my patients, especially the sick ones. It really does suck being around here when you could be home for the holidays. Many come from far away, so they don't have family visits.
For my coworkers, you know who you are. Praying that saying that tough times never last really is true.
For my son, Bubba, who just decided to have a meltdown while Dahey had a friend in the house. Ugh! Being the disciplinarian, he got his attention, though.
For me, that I can get into the holiday season. I started reviewing my charitable contributions (which I do this time every year). I really do enjoy giving and receiving.
Peace, quiet, family happiness and a clean house aren't too much to ask for...are they?
We'll see...stay tuned!
For my coworkers, you know who you are. Praying that saying that tough times never last really is true.
For my son, Bubba, who just decided to have a meltdown while Dahey had a friend in the house. Ugh! Being the disciplinarian, he got his attention, though.
For me, that I can get into the holiday season. I started reviewing my charitable contributions (which I do this time every year). I really do enjoy giving and receiving.
Peace, quiet, family happiness and a clean house aren't too much to ask for...are they?
We'll see...stay tuned!
Thursday, September 8, 2016
Reality bites
Yes I'm still recuperating from my recent travels. It was fun, but tiring.
I did my presentation to lots of applause (along with my partner). Being scheduled after lunch is entertaining, since you get an upfront view of everyone in the room falling asleep. "No one was nodding off while you talked," my traveling partner said.
"Au contraire," I said. "You'd have seen them all snoozing from my seat." Luckily, she got some action shots of my speaking partner and I fielding questions at the end.
I got to see lots of people I haven't seen lately, including some folks who retired. They came for the CEUs. We had a big group of folks go to dinner at one of these Food Channel-famous joints. It was interesting. After taking a stealth photo of the namesake owner talking to my traveling partner, I was waiting for security to come and throw me out. Needless to say, we're not famous, so said proprietor was not keen on a photo with us or my traveling partner, who told Mr. Big how excited she was to be there. Bubba, however, was impressed. (After watching all those episodes of MasterChef and MasterChef Junior, in addition to all the other food shows I miss...)
Thankfully, one of the folks who attended and works in a satellite office, knew that it was Restaurant Week in town and got us the "special menu" (similar to a prix fixe in normal places). It was good. The only thing that was annoying was the overcharging on the alcohol. I paid $14 for a glass of chianti when my traveling partner and I could have bought a bottle for the price of two glasses.
However, the happiest part of the trip, besides hanging out with my speaking partner and talking to the chief of staff of the organization (he/she was our main speaker one day), was escaping a hurricane. Despite Dr. H's insistence that he survived many a hurricane during his years in Florida, I was not keen on adding one to my own bucket list, thank you.
I made it home in time to do some chores, check my packed suitcases, then go out West with Bubba and Dahey to Dahey's niece's wedding. She's a sweet girl who was a guest book assistant at our wedding many years ago. Since then, she must have liked weddings, since she went into the wedding business herself. Needless to say, she had a whole lot of stuff and events. It was a busy weekend. Lots of food, drink and hanging out with the relatives, in-laws, and outlaws.
We even went on a horseback ride near one of the local wineries with the bride's Uncle Beau. Beau's brother, Bob, a professional rodeo star, had a party at his house for us when we were done. Bubba wanted nothing with riding a horse on the trails, so he went with the older folks on the wagon ride. However, he did ride the rodeo star's favorite horse, Biff at his house. We have lots of photos of Bubba smiling on Biff and he kept saying no, every time Uncle Beau asked if he wanted to get off. Thankfully, the other kids were busy playing in a water slide and didn't notice Biff was busy after a while. Despite keeping him up late, looking at those photos made him smile.
Thankfully, we didn't encounter any rattlesnakes or wild pigs in Bob's front yard as we were leaving. It was really dark and we could see the stars on a clear night. It was fun.
The day of the wedding we rested after all the excitement, because it was a long night. We went to the wedding at 5, had drinks after, then dinner, speeches, and dancing. Since everything was outside next to a famous creek side hotel, we also saw some wildlife. Mona, one of Dahey's relative's wives screamed when she saw a huge beetle on her side of the table. I wish we had a video of the encounter, because all of a sudden one of the flower girls appeared on scene. The bug rescuer was Dahey's five year old niece, Ella. She promptly rescued the flightless beetle and released him on a tree near the creek. She was smiling from ear-to-ear. Her father said, "Just call her my Crocodile Dundee."
After all the wedding excitement, we got up early and saw the Grand Canyon. It was clear, pretty and windy. Bubba was most impressed with the ambulance we saw about halfway through our hike. We heard no screams or saw any hysterics, so we kept moving along, since help had arrived. That definitely was one of the bucket list items I got to check off my list.
We returned home at the end of the holiday, then I went to work. It was tiring. I'm finally feeling like I'm not jet-lagged anymore.
So now it's almost the weekend. Hope you enjoy yours wherever you are. Hug your family members (human and furry) today. Life is short.
I did my presentation to lots of applause (along with my partner). Being scheduled after lunch is entertaining, since you get an upfront view of everyone in the room falling asleep. "No one was nodding off while you talked," my traveling partner said.
"Au contraire," I said. "You'd have seen them all snoozing from my seat." Luckily, she got some action shots of my speaking partner and I fielding questions at the end.
I got to see lots of people I haven't seen lately, including some folks who retired. They came for the CEUs. We had a big group of folks go to dinner at one of these Food Channel-famous joints. It was interesting. After taking a stealth photo of the namesake owner talking to my traveling partner, I was waiting for security to come and throw me out. Needless to say, we're not famous, so said proprietor was not keen on a photo with us or my traveling partner, who told Mr. Big how excited she was to be there. Bubba, however, was impressed. (After watching all those episodes of MasterChef and MasterChef Junior, in addition to all the other food shows I miss...)
Thankfully, one of the folks who attended and works in a satellite office, knew that it was Restaurant Week in town and got us the "special menu" (similar to a prix fixe in normal places). It was good. The only thing that was annoying was the overcharging on the alcohol. I paid $14 for a glass of chianti when my traveling partner and I could have bought a bottle for the price of two glasses.
However, the happiest part of the trip, besides hanging out with my speaking partner and talking to the chief of staff of the organization (he/she was our main speaker one day), was escaping a hurricane. Despite Dr. H's insistence that he survived many a hurricane during his years in Florida, I was not keen on adding one to my own bucket list, thank you.
I made it home in time to do some chores, check my packed suitcases, then go out West with Bubba and Dahey to Dahey's niece's wedding. She's a sweet girl who was a guest book assistant at our wedding many years ago. Since then, she must have liked weddings, since she went into the wedding business herself. Needless to say, she had a whole lot of stuff and events. It was a busy weekend. Lots of food, drink and hanging out with the relatives, in-laws, and outlaws.
We even went on a horseback ride near one of the local wineries with the bride's Uncle Beau. Beau's brother, Bob, a professional rodeo star, had a party at his house for us when we were done. Bubba wanted nothing with riding a horse on the trails, so he went with the older folks on the wagon ride. However, he did ride the rodeo star's favorite horse, Biff at his house. We have lots of photos of Bubba smiling on Biff and he kept saying no, every time Uncle Beau asked if he wanted to get off. Thankfully, the other kids were busy playing in a water slide and didn't notice Biff was busy after a while. Despite keeping him up late, looking at those photos made him smile.
Thankfully, we didn't encounter any rattlesnakes or wild pigs in Bob's front yard as we were leaving. It was really dark and we could see the stars on a clear night. It was fun.
The day of the wedding we rested after all the excitement, because it was a long night. We went to the wedding at 5, had drinks after, then dinner, speeches, and dancing. Since everything was outside next to a famous creek side hotel, we also saw some wildlife. Mona, one of Dahey's relative's wives screamed when she saw a huge beetle on her side of the table. I wish we had a video of the encounter, because all of a sudden one of the flower girls appeared on scene. The bug rescuer was Dahey's five year old niece, Ella. She promptly rescued the flightless beetle and released him on a tree near the creek. She was smiling from ear-to-ear. Her father said, "Just call her my Crocodile Dundee."
After all the wedding excitement, we got up early and saw the Grand Canyon. It was clear, pretty and windy. Bubba was most impressed with the ambulance we saw about halfway through our hike. We heard no screams or saw any hysterics, so we kept moving along, since help had arrived. That definitely was one of the bucket list items I got to check off my list.
We returned home at the end of the holiday, then I went to work. It was tiring. I'm finally feeling like I'm not jet-lagged anymore.
So now it's almost the weekend. Hope you enjoy yours wherever you are. Hug your family members (human and furry) today. Life is short.
Monday, July 25, 2016
A little this, a little that
I've been escaped from the office and I've been busy. Dahey and I got Bubba from camp and took him on a road trip.
We're not the Griswolds, but we had a similar adventure on this trip. I inadvertently only read some reviews of the Hotel Hell we stayed at. I missed the good ones that said "Don't ever stay here."
It was really, really hot where we were. I packed lots of drinks in the truckster just in case.
The first clue we were in Hotel Hell was the neighborhood once we got off the highway ramp. It was sketchy. The lobby of HH looked decent, but I'm always a little concerned if they have doors to the outside, especially if the neighborhood is not so good. When you have to ring the doorbell to get into the lobby at night, it's not good.
Next, we got a non-smoking room with cigarette burns in the comforter. And if that wasn't enough, crumbs were on the floor (between the beds).
The room had a slightly musty odor and the air conditioning wasn't on. We turned it on, I inspected some more. There were no bedbugs or any other visible bugs and the in-room fridge looked new and was COLD. I got the extra strength Febreeze out and sprayed the room. I knew it would come in handy someday (have carried it, but never used it). I figured it would get better. It didn't.
All night we heard noise from the AC the room temp never went below 85 degrees. It was horrible. On top of that, there was a lot of noise from the parking lot. When that got quiet, the trains came by.
I probably slept about 4 hours all night. Needless to say, once the boys fell asleep, I booked another room in a nearby town for the second night. In the morning, I told the hotelier we were checking out.
We went off to see the sights and had fun. We even saw a movie while we waited for the check-in at the new hotel.
Our new hotel was an oasis. I checked everything then took a nice shower, so I could go out into the heat and sit at a baseball game.
It didn't matter. With more air conditioning and a clean room (and bathroom) I could tolerate anything. Even a 110 degree heat index!
Now, it's back to staycation. It's going to be fun.
Stay tuned!
We're not the Griswolds, but we had a similar adventure on this trip. I inadvertently only read some reviews of the Hotel Hell we stayed at. I missed the good ones that said "Don't ever stay here."
It was really, really hot where we were. I packed lots of drinks in the truckster just in case.
The first clue we were in Hotel Hell was the neighborhood once we got off the highway ramp. It was sketchy. The lobby of HH looked decent, but I'm always a little concerned if they have doors to the outside, especially if the neighborhood is not so good. When you have to ring the doorbell to get into the lobby at night, it's not good.
Next, we got a non-smoking room with cigarette burns in the comforter. And if that wasn't enough, crumbs were on the floor (between the beds).
The room had a slightly musty odor and the air conditioning wasn't on. We turned it on, I inspected some more. There were no bedbugs or any other visible bugs and the in-room fridge looked new and was COLD. I got the extra strength Febreeze out and sprayed the room. I knew it would come in handy someday (have carried it, but never used it). I figured it would get better. It didn't.
All night we heard noise from the AC the room temp never went below 85 degrees. It was horrible. On top of that, there was a lot of noise from the parking lot. When that got quiet, the trains came by.
I probably slept about 4 hours all night. Needless to say, once the boys fell asleep, I booked another room in a nearby town for the second night. In the morning, I told the hotelier we were checking out.
We went off to see the sights and had fun. We even saw a movie while we waited for the check-in at the new hotel.
Our new hotel was an oasis. I checked everything then took a nice shower, so I could go out into the heat and sit at a baseball game.
It didn't matter. With more air conditioning and a clean room (and bathroom) I could tolerate anything. Even a 110 degree heat index!
Now, it's back to staycation. It's going to be fun.
Stay tuned!
Sunday, July 3, 2016
Using that extra day wisely
So far, the holiday weekend is working out well. I've been busy trying to take care of all my usual chores, as well as enjoying the weekend.
I have spent some time volunteering. Thankfully, this can occur at home, as I read over stuff and review it for continuing education credit. It's something new and exciting.
We've taken Bubba on his fried chicken quest. Since he's inherited a genetic proclivity for these crispy birds (from his MD grandpa, no less) and there are all sorts of new (and older) restaurants really advertising. At our latest stop, we found out there's actually a fried chicken festival coming up, so we know where we'll be eating in a couple of weeks.
I've still got my usual chores, but with the pretty weather and fun of the Fourth of July, it's been enjoyable lately. Having another day to celebrate is also a good thing, too.
Stay tuned...
I have spent some time volunteering. Thankfully, this can occur at home, as I read over stuff and review it for continuing education credit. It's something new and exciting.
We've taken Bubba on his fried chicken quest. Since he's inherited a genetic proclivity for these crispy birds (from his MD grandpa, no less) and there are all sorts of new (and older) restaurants really advertising. At our latest stop, we found out there's actually a fried chicken festival coming up, so we know where we'll be eating in a couple of weeks.
I've still got my usual chores, but with the pretty weather and fun of the Fourth of July, it's been enjoyable lately. Having another day to celebrate is also a good thing, too.
Stay tuned...
Sunday, June 19, 2016
Happy Fathers' Day
"My father gave me the greatest gift anyone could give another person, he believed in me." - - Jim Valvano
It comes the same weekend every year, but never gets as much interest. That holiday is Fathers' Day.
Since I volunteered to take a father's place at church this weekend, my own celebration was broken up. (My husband agreed to it). I got up early and made Dahey and Bubba a breakfast casserole. The route to a man's heart may be through his stomach, but for these two, there had better be meat and cheese on the way, too. (Sorry vegetarians! I try all the time and sometimes I'm successful!)
I took care of my church volunteer obligation, then came home. We ate leftovers for lunch, and we went out for dinner at a swanky steakhouse nearby. Bubba wasn't thrilled that there were few kids there but he got used to it, and enjoyed the food.
We left and got dessert at home since the two wanted to watch the NBA finals. Dahey's father would have enjoyed that--he loved basketball. My father would have just taken the pie and gone on his merry way. Bubba was happy to see Cleveland win.
For all of you nurses out there, who are dads and are working, I hope your organization treats you right. Some do make things better when working these holidays. If you are working and can't see your father, I hope you can soon.
For the rest of us, who wish our fathers were here today, I wish you peace. I feel your pain everyday. I am so glad I have lots of happy memories with my dad, who loved us, pies (and just about any sweets) and being a dad. I'll never forget him.
More later.
It comes the same weekend every year, but never gets as much interest. That holiday is Fathers' Day.
Since I volunteered to take a father's place at church this weekend, my own celebration was broken up. (My husband agreed to it). I got up early and made Dahey and Bubba a breakfast casserole. The route to a man's heart may be through his stomach, but for these two, there had better be meat and cheese on the way, too. (Sorry vegetarians! I try all the time and sometimes I'm successful!)
I took care of my church volunteer obligation, then came home. We ate leftovers for lunch, and we went out for dinner at a swanky steakhouse nearby. Bubba wasn't thrilled that there were few kids there but he got used to it, and enjoyed the food.
We left and got dessert at home since the two wanted to watch the NBA finals. Dahey's father would have enjoyed that--he loved basketball. My father would have just taken the pie and gone on his merry way. Bubba was happy to see Cleveland win.
For all of you nurses out there, who are dads and are working, I hope your organization treats you right. Some do make things better when working these holidays. If you are working and can't see your father, I hope you can soon.
For the rest of us, who wish our fathers were here today, I wish you peace. I feel your pain everyday. I am so glad I have lots of happy memories with my dad, who loved us, pies (and just about any sweets) and being a dad. I'll never forget him.
More later.
Friday, March 25, 2016
Now hear this!
This Good Friday was eventful. Bubba was still on spring break, so in between some appointments we had fun with him.
Dahey and I had to get our taxes done. All went well except for the craziness when he had to work out of town last year. It's just fun when people make stupid mistakes and we end up paying taxes for one state when we're in another. Eventually, my boss will figure out how to make sure my paycheck is correct, too. He/she should get docked, too, even though it's always resolved in my favor.
We owe money this year to everyone, but I'm not complaining. As our tax guy told us, if he calls, it means someone stole our identity and filed a return. Thankfully, we got no call.
After tax excitement, Dahey got his new hearing aids. While I don't work in audiology, I have to know the basics of hearing aids because it can cause issues in our clinics. Rehab nurses sometimes get enlisted to change batteries. (Another skill for my resume, I guess!) I even learned a few more tricks today, thanks to our lovely audiologist.
Dahey was amazed at what he was missing. Noise inside my car, wind, and birds made him look around in wonder. He goes back in a couple of weeks to get his remote ordered and to get more sound profiles set.
We finished the day off with Bubba at a local fish fry. He wouldn't have it any other way.
Stay tuned...
Dahey and I had to get our taxes done. All went well except for the craziness when he had to work out of town last year. It's just fun when people make stupid mistakes and we end up paying taxes for one state when we're in another. Eventually, my boss will figure out how to make sure my paycheck is correct, too. He/she should get docked, too, even though it's always resolved in my favor.
We owe money this year to everyone, but I'm not complaining. As our tax guy told us, if he calls, it means someone stole our identity and filed a return. Thankfully, we got no call.
After tax excitement, Dahey got his new hearing aids. While I don't work in audiology, I have to know the basics of hearing aids because it can cause issues in our clinics. Rehab nurses sometimes get enlisted to change batteries. (Another skill for my resume, I guess!) I even learned a few more tricks today, thanks to our lovely audiologist.
Dahey was amazed at what he was missing. Noise inside my car, wind, and birds made him look around in wonder. He goes back in a couple of weeks to get his remote ordered and to get more sound profiles set.
We finished the day off with Bubba at a local fish fry. He wouldn't have it any other way.
Stay tuned...
Tuesday, January 19, 2016
Back to the grind
The polar vortex arrived in force yesterday. Bubba was out of school so we packed a lunch and visited our doctor (since he sometimes runs late). All went well and we actually got out earlier than expected.
I sat at my computer so long working on my PublicU presentation that I hurt last night. Oh, the back and other muscles should balk when I'm awake and have plenty of time to walk around.
Tuesdays after a holiday always seem like Mondays.
Oh, the excitement the day will bring.
Stay tuned...
I sat at my computer so long working on my PublicU presentation that I hurt last night. Oh, the back and other muscles should balk when I'm awake and have plenty of time to walk around.
Tuesdays after a holiday always seem like Mondays.
Oh, the excitement the day will bring.
Stay tuned...
Sunday, December 27, 2015
Back to reality
It was fun, but too short. Yes, vacation is nearly over. It was fun though, spending time with Bubba and Dahey and some of the other assorted relatives who were roaming around Rehab Land.
I saw some movies. Between Redbox, our local library, the movie theatre and cable TV, I saw lots of stuff: things I haven't seen in years (Elf, Scrooged), things I see every year (It's a Wonderful Life, A Christmas Story) and movies I wanted to see this summer (Trainwreck, Inside Out).
My trip to the movie theatre was not for Star Wars (I was busy being an elf while that was going on) but with Bubba to see Daddy's Home. While it's not for everyone, it is a good one for kids, and per usual Will Ferrell movies, there is a big dance scene.
I wanted to see more holiday lights, but the weather of late has not cooperated. Tornado watches and rain ruined any chances of that.
Being away, however, when you are with people you want to be with, is priceless. While it was a lot of work, it was worth it.
I hope you enjoy your holiday season and the new year to come.
Stay tuned.
I saw some movies. Between Redbox, our local library, the movie theatre and cable TV, I saw lots of stuff: things I haven't seen in years (Elf, Scrooged), things I see every year (It's a Wonderful Life, A Christmas Story) and movies I wanted to see this summer (Trainwreck, Inside Out).
My trip to the movie theatre was not for Star Wars (I was busy being an elf while that was going on) but with Bubba to see Daddy's Home. While it's not for everyone, it is a good one for kids, and per usual Will Ferrell movies, there is a big dance scene.
I wanted to see more holiday lights, but the weather of late has not cooperated. Tornado watches and rain ruined any chances of that.
Being away, however, when you are with people you want to be with, is priceless. While it was a lot of work, it was worth it.
I hope you enjoy your holiday season and the new year to come.
Stay tuned.
Friday, October 9, 2015
So glad
TGIF! A long weekend awaits with Dahey and Bubba. I can't wait. It's been far too long.
It was an exciting week. Dahey returned from TDY. Hallelujah! I have a backup for the soon-to-be teenager who needs a parent pal sometimes. I love Bubba, but Momma needs a break! The boys are already planning their next adventure to the movies for The Martian.
We survived the inspection, but maybe, after a few of these, I'm becoming jaded. Some of the things they asked us has very little bearing on nursing. I like to consider myself informed, but I had no idea about some of the stuff they asked. Happily, most of my other colleagues in the department felt the same.
Happily, we saw a few patients and got some work done. Since we've had a few exciting things happen lately, I've gotten to put on my research hat. One of our patients seemed sick but really had a anteroapical MI on our acute unit. Diagnosing an MI in a spinal cord injury patient, or one with diminshed sensation due to stroke, brain injury, etc., can be challenging.
I learn something new every day. Another one of our patients had issues being intubated so the doctors elected to do awake airway intubation for his/her surgery. It was very interesting to me to watch the staff who participated in this video below.
Hope you enjoy your weekend, long or short, wherever you may be!
It was an exciting week. Dahey returned from TDY. Hallelujah! I have a backup for the soon-to-be teenager who needs a parent pal sometimes. I love Bubba, but Momma needs a break! The boys are already planning their next adventure to the movies for The Martian.
We survived the inspection, but maybe, after a few of these, I'm becoming jaded. Some of the things they asked us has very little bearing on nursing. I like to consider myself informed, but I had no idea about some of the stuff they asked. Happily, most of my other colleagues in the department felt the same.
Happily, we saw a few patients and got some work done. Since we've had a few exciting things happen lately, I've gotten to put on my research hat. One of our patients seemed sick but really had a anteroapical MI on our acute unit. Diagnosing an MI in a spinal cord injury patient, or one with diminshed sensation due to stroke, brain injury, etc., can be challenging.
I learn something new every day. Another one of our patients had issues being intubated so the doctors elected to do awake airway intubation for his/her surgery. It was very interesting to me to watch the staff who participated in this video below.
Hope you enjoy your weekend, long or short, wherever you may be!
Sunday, September 13, 2015
Homework
Bubba's been getting homework after I decided to go online and find some reading materials appropriate for his situation.
Here are a couple of the ones I picked:
They are entertaining, and only time will tell if they really stick. Gotta start somewhere.
Here are a couple of the ones I picked:
- Dude, That's Rude (Get some manners) by Pamela Espeland & Elizabeth Verdick
- Speak and Get Along! Learn the Mighty Might, Thought Chop and More tools to make friends, stop teasing and feel good about yourself by Scott Cooper
They are entertaining, and only time will tell if they really stick. Gotta start somewhere.
Friday, September 11, 2015
TGIF (aka counting the days)
This has been a busy, crazy post-holiday week. I'm so happy it's over. I'm adjusting to my new home at work by floating. I have equipment that allows me to work all over the Hotel, so I'm taking advantage of it.
The volunteers are nice, but the real dust-stirrers this week are the construction guys, but thankfully, the dust is contained. They are drilling stuff in our building (which is also being repaired for settling). If you didn't have a headache when you got to work, you might have one when you leave.
Bubba decided to give me a headache. He got in trouble. I got a call from the principal and now he'll be on in-school suspension for two days. He opens his mouth and inserts foot a lot. He is very filterless sometimes, and the think it-close the mouth-let it go mode doesn't always work with him. He is also not yet the master of the double entendre. I am baffled why my child has to be punny at school when the education system has zero tolerance for anything.
It's not as easy as when I was a kid. If you said the wrong thing, the nun (or other teacher) gave you the dope slap.
You never did it again.
So happy it's the weekend! Hope you enjoy wherever you may be!
The volunteers are nice, but the real dust-stirrers this week are the construction guys, but thankfully, the dust is contained. They are drilling stuff in our building (which is also being repaired for settling). If you didn't have a headache when you got to work, you might have one when you leave.
Bubba decided to give me a headache. He got in trouble. I got a call from the principal and now he'll be on in-school suspension for two days. He opens his mouth and inserts foot a lot. He is very filterless sometimes, and the think it-close the mouth-let it go mode doesn't always work with him. He is also not yet the master of the double entendre. I am baffled why my child has to be punny at school when the education system has zero tolerance for anything.
It's not as easy as when I was a kid. If you said the wrong thing, the nun (or other teacher) gave you the dope slap.
You never did it again.
So happy it's the weekend! Hope you enjoy wherever you may be!
Saturday, August 15, 2015
The best things in life
Some are free, some not so much.
It's been a fun week. Bubba started seventh grade. He's happy enough, but wishes more of his friends were in his classes (only half of the classes contain at least one friend, which according to Bubba will make them "very boring.").
The school district here in RehabLand is having budget cuts this year. I always know which teachers talk about them (the ones most affected). It's very interesting. There won't be any intramural sports this year, so we have to find Bubba a boys' volleyball league he can play in. He is set on trying out for v-ball in high school, so we must prepare. This will be interesting. He may have to get on a girls team.
So today, we hung out, did homework and we had fun. We went to a local hamburger joint that's been around for ages. It's a tiny place (counter serves 10 people on each side) that makes their own root beer. We got a burger, fries and root beer. It was fun. One item crossed off the bucket list.
Since that wasn't enough calories, we decided to go to a local creamery known for it's oddball flavors. Bubba got one called Cookie Monster. It had both Oreos and chocolate chip cookie dough in it. I got old reliable double chocolate, which was amazing. Bubba was a little scared of the teenage girl population, so we sat on the same side as the ice cream scoopers.
All in all, it was fun hanging out with Bubba. These moments are priceless. I would not trade them for anything.
More to come...
It's been a fun week. Bubba started seventh grade. He's happy enough, but wishes more of his friends were in his classes (only half of the classes contain at least one friend, which according to Bubba will make them "very boring.").
The school district here in RehabLand is having budget cuts this year. I always know which teachers talk about them (the ones most affected). It's very interesting. There won't be any intramural sports this year, so we have to find Bubba a boys' volleyball league he can play in. He is set on trying out for v-ball in high school, so we must prepare. This will be interesting. He may have to get on a girls team.
So today, we hung out, did homework and we had fun. We went to a local hamburger joint that's been around for ages. It's a tiny place (counter serves 10 people on each side) that makes their own root beer. We got a burger, fries and root beer. It was fun. One item crossed off the bucket list.
Since that wasn't enough calories, we decided to go to a local creamery known for it's oddball flavors. Bubba got one called Cookie Monster. It had both Oreos and chocolate chip cookie dough in it. I got old reliable double chocolate, which was amazing. Bubba was a little scared of the teenage girl population, so we sat on the same side as the ice cream scoopers.
All in all, it was fun hanging out with Bubba. These moments are priceless. I would not trade them for anything.
More to come...
Thursday, July 30, 2015
Vacation: the inevitable
It's not close, but vacation will end. I know it. I still have a ton of things to do. Even if I were off for a month, I'm sure I'd harbor some regret for what didn't get done around the house, but I'm doing my best.
I continue to work on getting the outdoor work done: packing up yard waste for pickup, cutting down and mowing stuff. I haven't mowed in years, and yes, I have the mosquito bites to prove it (despite everything, they love me).
Bubba decided he really didn't want to go to the CityPark pool again with camp, so since he crashed into another kid yesterday and got a huge bump on his head, I decided to keep him home. The camp forced me: they called in panic mode yesterday and made me pick him up. It worked out well that I told Dahey where I was going, because they called him at work when I didn't answer and he had to find me at the movie theatre where I was trying to be a grown up and watching a grown up movie (Amy, the documentary on Amy Winehouse). Luckily, there weren't too many other folks around (and I was able to get a voucher to come again).
Since Bubba was on sick leave, and I'm on vacation, we went on a placid stroll in town at the gardens, then we went to lunch and had cupcakes. He even went to a local house featured on Ghost Adventures. Thankfully, he was sufficiently scared by some of the stuff he saw for sale in the gift shop, that we won't be going back.
Now, I just have to take him to a boy movie (Ant Man) instead of Dahey. We're going to an interesting old theatre, and this time, I'll make sure to leave the phone on vibrate, just in case.
Stay tuned.
I continue to work on getting the outdoor work done: packing up yard waste for pickup, cutting down and mowing stuff. I haven't mowed in years, and yes, I have the mosquito bites to prove it (despite everything, they love me).
Bubba decided he really didn't want to go to the CityPark pool again with camp, so since he crashed into another kid yesterday and got a huge bump on his head, I decided to keep him home. The camp forced me: they called in panic mode yesterday and made me pick him up. It worked out well that I told Dahey where I was going, because they called him at work when I didn't answer and he had to find me at the movie theatre where I was trying to be a grown up and watching a grown up movie (Amy, the documentary on Amy Winehouse). Luckily, there weren't too many other folks around (and I was able to get a voucher to come again).
Since Bubba was on sick leave, and I'm on vacation, we went on a placid stroll in town at the gardens, then we went to lunch and had cupcakes. He even went to a local house featured on Ghost Adventures. Thankfully, he was sufficiently scared by some of the stuff he saw for sale in the gift shop, that we won't be going back.
Now, I just have to take him to a boy movie (Ant Man) instead of Dahey. We're going to an interesting old theatre, and this time, I'll make sure to leave the phone on vibrate, just in case.
Stay tuned.
Saturday, June 20, 2015
Heartbroken
I just cannot believe it. One of my childhood friends asked me a while ago about getting another heart surgery. She had had several strokes in the past and wanted to get her problem fixed. I mentioned to her that ANY surgery is risky and to consider that in her plan. She agreed.
She went in for that surgery, and never came out. Her husband and four children, the youngest is Bubba's age (a preteen) are left behind.
She was almost 46 and a half years old. One year and months older than my own mother when she died.
The last time we saw each other was at a funeral for a relative of one of our classmates. We said we'd get together after she had some time to process her own loss. That time will never come.
I hugged Bubba tighter today. And tonight, I pray for all of them.
Hug your kids (and friends) today. You just never know...
She went in for that surgery, and never came out. Her husband and four children, the youngest is Bubba's age (a preteen) are left behind.
She was almost 46 and a half years old. One year and months older than my own mother when she died.
The last time we saw each other was at a funeral for a relative of one of our classmates. We said we'd get together after she had some time to process her own loss. That time will never come.
I hugged Bubba tighter today. And tonight, I pray for all of them.
Hug your kids (and friends) today. You just never know...
Monday, May 11, 2015
Just another Monday
Still Nurses' Week..YES! The psychology staff are celebrating on Florence Nightingale's birthday at the Hotel, but they have to send an e-mail every day so people don't forget.
I celebrated today by having lots of technical difficulties in my clinic. Now I have to find a creative way to get a gift basket of coffee, Mountain Dew, chocolate and other terribly fattening things to my favorite support technicians. Yes, it's been that kind of week and this is only Monday. We have a "special notes" section of our intranet, so I recognized two of the folks today. I had to...those two saved my derriere so much already.
Bubba got out of school early today and is counting the days when school ends here in RehabLand. Since his school had no snow days (we had a school boss from Minnesota who wasn't scared one icy day) this year, they'll actually finish on the day they said. Bubba, however, may notice those last days are different. For the first time ever, he has final exams. Should get him ready for high school!
Now Bubba is at his friend Jorge's house, helping him get some of the music homework done before the big party this week at the last band class. If Jorge gets the magic number, he'll be in. Bubba, his partner in crime, wants to provide moral support so it happens.
Stay tuned...one more day of Nurses' Week left. Enjoy every moment. You deserve it!
I celebrated today by having lots of technical difficulties in my clinic. Now I have to find a creative way to get a gift basket of coffee, Mountain Dew, chocolate and other terribly fattening things to my favorite support technicians. Yes, it's been that kind of week and this is only Monday. We have a "special notes" section of our intranet, so I recognized two of the folks today. I had to...those two saved my derriere so much already.
Bubba got out of school early today and is counting the days when school ends here in RehabLand. Since his school had no snow days (we had a school boss from Minnesota who wasn't scared one icy day) this year, they'll actually finish on the day they said. Bubba, however, may notice those last days are different. For the first time ever, he has final exams. Should get him ready for high school!
Now Bubba is at his friend Jorge's house, helping him get some of the music homework done before the big party this week at the last band class. If Jorge gets the magic number, he'll be in. Bubba, his partner in crime, wants to provide moral support so it happens.
Stay tuned...one more day of Nurses' Week left. Enjoy every moment. You deserve it!
Saturday, April 25, 2015
Here comes the rain again
April showers do bring May flowers, but after those showers get mixed in with tornado watches and warnings, I get a little edgy. It fits the mood, though. I'm still a little melancholy after this week.
Thankfully, the latest tornado watch was called off so Bubba could go to his track meet, hang out and have fun while Dahey and I had a date night. We went to a neighborhood I grew up in (which has since become moderately gentrified) to a restaurant I've wanted to try. It was nostalgia: some things change and some things stay the same. Thankfully, the food was good, the beer was cold, and the various games were on the (baseball, hockey, etc.) TV so Dahey could follow along.
Since we were on a nostalgia trek, Dahey decided to drive to a shopping mall we walked in a lot while we were dating. A lot of stores are gone, but some old reliables got bigger. They even got an Apple Store in this particular mall. Which of course, made Dahey want a new phone. Thankfully, his problems can be resolved by sending his phone in for repair, which will be done this week (thank goodness!)
Now, I'm back to doing my volunteer homework. Sometimes this is a time-consuming activity, but other times, it's a lot of fun.
Enjoy your weekend wherever you are!
Thankfully, the latest tornado watch was called off so Bubba could go to his track meet, hang out and have fun while Dahey and I had a date night. We went to a neighborhood I grew up in (which has since become moderately gentrified) to a restaurant I've wanted to try. It was nostalgia: some things change and some things stay the same. Thankfully, the food was good, the beer was cold, and the various games were on the (baseball, hockey, etc.) TV so Dahey could follow along.
Since we were on a nostalgia trek, Dahey decided to drive to a shopping mall we walked in a lot while we were dating. A lot of stores are gone, but some old reliables got bigger. They even got an Apple Store in this particular mall. Which of course, made Dahey want a new phone. Thankfully, his problems can be resolved by sending his phone in for repair, which will be done this week (thank goodness!)
Now, I'm back to doing my volunteer homework. Sometimes this is a time-consuming activity, but other times, it's a lot of fun.
Enjoy your weekend wherever you are!
Sunday, April 5, 2015
Happy Easter
And if you don't celebrate Easter, I wish you a blessed Passover. Don't celebrate that either? If you were here in RehabLand today, it was glorious. Enjoy the spring weather wherever you are. It only comes once a year.
I didn't fall off the earth, I got a little busy this week exercising and watching various astronomical phenomena, like a little space station buzzing by and the latest Blood Moon.
Bubba, Dahey and I finally went out for the brunch that was so rudely interrupted by a terrible virus for Dahey's birthday weekend last weekend. It was a good coincidence that it was Easter, since I was fortunate enough to excuse myself from galley slavery with some of my relatives. That felt just as glorious as the weather. Since we went to one of our favorite pizzerias last night, we had leftovers for dinner so I did no cooking AT ALL. Ah! My idea of a wonderful day.
I did have a temporary lapse when I decided to thoroughly vacuum and mop all the floors upstairs. I corralled Dahey and Bubba in the basement, so I got to enjoy the quiet and drying when the floors were done. For one, brief, shining moment (in a house where everyone must wear shoes with a soon-to-be teenager who is constantly eating) they were clean.
Now, we're getting ready for the big chamber music night at Bubba's neighborhood junior high. He's going to play this song with some other brass players. Sounds like it will be a tuneup for the Spring Concert in a few weeks and the auditions for the symphony and jazz band groups. Bubba was so excited to wear a suit to church today, that I will be very surprised if he doesn't go formal for the next concert. He looks very longingly at some of those tuxedos when we are out shopping.
Work is still work. I have to go back for a full week tomorrow. I need a day off every week to motivate me, but I don't think that will ever happen. It would be nice, though. I'd like to know if I'm going to get another job at the Hotel, but with my luck (and our illustrious HR department), I'll be waiting six more weeks to find out. Nothing ever happens fast.
I'm going to stop here. All the cleaning and fun have made me tired today. I bid you all a good night wherever you are.
Stay tuned...
I didn't fall off the earth, I got a little busy this week exercising and watching various astronomical phenomena, like a little space station buzzing by and the latest Blood Moon.
Bubba, Dahey and I finally went out for the brunch that was so rudely interrupted by a terrible virus for Dahey's birthday weekend last weekend. It was a good coincidence that it was Easter, since I was fortunate enough to excuse myself from galley slavery with some of my relatives. That felt just as glorious as the weather. Since we went to one of our favorite pizzerias last night, we had leftovers for dinner so I did no cooking AT ALL. Ah! My idea of a wonderful day.
I did have a temporary lapse when I decided to thoroughly vacuum and mop all the floors upstairs. I corralled Dahey and Bubba in the basement, so I got to enjoy the quiet and drying when the floors were done. For one, brief, shining moment (in a house where everyone must wear shoes with a soon-to-be teenager who is constantly eating) they were clean.
Now, we're getting ready for the big chamber music night at Bubba's neighborhood junior high. He's going to play this song with some other brass players. Sounds like it will be a tuneup for the Spring Concert in a few weeks and the auditions for the symphony and jazz band groups. Bubba was so excited to wear a suit to church today, that I will be very surprised if he doesn't go formal for the next concert. He looks very longingly at some of those tuxedos when we are out shopping.
Work is still work. I have to go back for a full week tomorrow. I need a day off every week to motivate me, but I don't think that will ever happen. It would be nice, though. I'd like to know if I'm going to get another job at the Hotel, but with my luck (and our illustrious HR department), I'll be waiting six more weeks to find out. Nothing ever happens fast.
I'm going to stop here. All the cleaning and fun have made me tired today. I bid you all a good night wherever you are.
Stay tuned...
Sunday, March 29, 2015
The weekend is over
It's been busy. Dahey celebrated his birthday with a horrific cold. Bubba is suffering from allergies, so there is a constant chorus of sneezing and coughing here in our house.
As usual, I made Dahey his favorite cake for this birthday. It's not a birthday if I don't make a scratch cake. We had plans for brunch, but those were cancelled while the patient stayed home and rested. Bubba decided we needed donuts, so we went to Local Donut House for a dozen beauties, which the child promptly decided to start eating as soon as we got them in the car. Fortunately, we live close and there were donuts for the birthday boy.
Now, since Dahey felt well enough to go to his friend's benefit event with an escort (Bubba), I'm staying at home waiting for the duo to return.
Monday should be interesting. Hope your week is healthy and happy!
Stay tuned.
As usual, I made Dahey his favorite cake for this birthday. It's not a birthday if I don't make a scratch cake. We had plans for brunch, but those were cancelled while the patient stayed home and rested. Bubba decided we needed donuts, so we went to Local Donut House for a dozen beauties, which the child promptly decided to start eating as soon as we got them in the car. Fortunately, we live close and there were donuts for the birthday boy.
Now, since Dahey felt well enough to go to his friend's benefit event with an escort (Bubba), I'm staying at home waiting for the duo to return.
Monday should be interesting. Hope your week is healthy and happy!
Stay tuned.
Saturday, March 21, 2015
The joys of spring
Yes, RehabLand is warming up for the moment. The neighbor's daffodils are up and looking bright. I'm going to be trapped inside, since I got invited back to MegaConference nursing section. I'm not going to lie: I was a second string presenter, but since they found a bigger room, they decided to invite me. This year, MegaConference is not far away and Dahey can visit lots of friends and relatives. It was a no-brainer.
Bubba had fun on his spring break. I don't think he'll like going back to school, but it will be over soon enough. Getting a kid to do homework when the weather is nice is challenging.
Dahey finally got a new (used) car. Hallelujah! I'm just hoping this former grandma mobile can handle him driving it all over the place.
So I'm going to stop for now. Thank goodness we have a printing group who works on short notice (and mine is very nice). I'm going to be busy doing my homework this weekend.
More to come...
Bubba had fun on his spring break. I don't think he'll like going back to school, but it will be over soon enough. Getting a kid to do homework when the weather is nice is challenging.
Dahey finally got a new (used) car. Hallelujah! I'm just hoping this former grandma mobile can handle him driving it all over the place.
So I'm going to stop for now. Thank goodness we have a printing group who works on short notice (and mine is very nice). I'm going to be busy doing my homework this weekend.
More to come...
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