Saturday, August 28th 2010
Well, it's 1am and we are about to start our 2nd leg. I am warming up to run 7.25 miles down the highway in approximately 2 hours! I am very tense and filled with anxiety. In just a short time, I'll be done with this- I told myself multiple times. And I can't wait for that moment!
My teammate, Miss K, handed the bracelet off to me, and there I went. Down a dark highway in the middle of the night with my reflector vest, blinkers, and a heavy flashlight in hand. 7.25 miles of rolling hills- here we come!
What am I doing and why am I doing this? I asked myself part way up the first hill. Then I decided to take a deep breath and enjoy myself because what else was I going to do about it? I couldn't stop because my team was 3.5 miles up the road waiting to give me the traditional drink of water and cheerful motivation.
Soon, the first person passed me- "Road Kill" - they call it. I don't especially like that term, so I'll just say they passed me. I decided to start saying "Nice job" "Good work" and "Good job" to each person that went by. It made me feel good to say that and at the same time, it kept me from feeling too discouraged by the fact that at least 8 people have now gone by me.
The moon was big and bright. I was told Mars was shining right next to the moon, so I glanced over to enjoy that sight a few times. It was a pretty interesting, yet amazing experience.
Peace :)
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Snacks & Beauty Products
Friday, August 27th 2010
This weekend I am running in a 197 mile, 24 hr relay race with 11 other teammates. I'm feeling butterflies in my stomach, yet excitement at the same time. There has been much preparation for this and the team captain, Miss A, has done most of it. Thank you Miss A!
I called her today to see if there were any last minute items she needed me to pick up, but it looks like it's all taken care of. So, I bought some snacks and beauty products that I thought everyone (all the girls anyway) would like to share. We are going to be without a shower after a lot of exercise for what will seem like a long time. This will be interesting...
Peace :)
This weekend I am running in a 197 mile, 24 hr relay race with 11 other teammates. I'm feeling butterflies in my stomach, yet excitement at the same time. There has been much preparation for this and the team captain, Miss A, has done most of it. Thank you Miss A!
I called her today to see if there were any last minute items she needed me to pick up, but it looks like it's all taken care of. So, I bought some snacks and beauty products that I thought everyone (all the girls anyway) would like to share. We are going to be without a shower after a lot of exercise for what will seem like a long time. This will be interesting...
Peace :)
Friday, August 27, 2010
Make a Change (with a milkshake)
Thursday, August 26th 2010
Once again, I'm caught putting some change in the jar by the register of a fast food restaurant on my lunch break. It's not that I have money to throw around, it's just that I feel that if I have enough money to buy a sandwich or milkshake (like I bought today), then I have enough to give a few extra cents to a good cause.
Today's donation was for a local "Make a Change" fund. I tried to read the fine print quickly, but that's all I got out of it since the 10 people behind me were anxiously trying to make there way to the front of the line.
The milkshake was so good, maybe I'll go back to make another donation soon...
Peace :)
Once again, I'm caught putting some change in the jar by the register of a fast food restaurant on my lunch break. It's not that I have money to throw around, it's just that I feel that if I have enough money to buy a sandwich or milkshake (like I bought today), then I have enough to give a few extra cents to a good cause.
Today's donation was for a local "Make a Change" fund. I tried to read the fine print quickly, but that's all I got out of it since the 10 people behind me were anxiously trying to make there way to the front of the line.
The milkshake was so good, maybe I'll go back to make another donation soon...
Peace :)
Tip Bucket
Wednesday, August 25th 2010
One of the sandwich shops I frequent for lunch is full of nice employees. Sometimes they mess up my order, but they are always welcoming which makes me continue to go there. Oh, and the delicious sandwiches have a little part in that too :)
They have a giant bucket full of coins by the register that I like to add my tip to. I'm not sure if they ever take the change out or not, because it's always so full. You know how they say...if there are a lot of tips in the jar, it triggers people to add to it. And at this shop, it definitely works for me!
Peace :)
One of the sandwich shops I frequent for lunch is full of nice employees. Sometimes they mess up my order, but they are always welcoming which makes me continue to go there. Oh, and the delicious sandwiches have a little part in that too :)
They have a giant bucket full of coins by the register that I like to add my tip to. I'm not sure if they ever take the change out or not, because it's always so full. You know how they say...if there are a lot of tips in the jar, it triggers people to add to it. And at this shop, it definitely works for me!
Peace :)
Cup of Water
Tuesday, August 24th 2010
This morning I was in line at the coffee shop and the man in front of me ordered a cup of water. He looked like he might need a little extra assistance, so my brain was quickly working with ideas beginning the moment I walked into the shop behind him.
His water was called out and placed on the counter, but he was paying attention to something off in the distance. I thought- Should I take it over to him? What if I get in trouble for touching someone else's drink?
So I walked over toward him and said, "Sir, your water is ready" as I pointed in the direction it was waiting. "Oh, thank you." He said to me. We both walked out at the same time and I saw he had a friend and a doggy outside waiting for him. I smiled, got into my car and drove away.
Peace :)
This morning I was in line at the coffee shop and the man in front of me ordered a cup of water. He looked like he might need a little extra assistance, so my brain was quickly working with ideas beginning the moment I walked into the shop behind him.
His water was called out and placed on the counter, but he was paying attention to something off in the distance. I thought- Should I take it over to him? What if I get in trouble for touching someone else's drink?
So I walked over toward him and said, "Sir, your water is ready" as I pointed in the direction it was waiting. "Oh, thank you." He said to me. We both walked out at the same time and I saw he had a friend and a doggy outside waiting for him. I smiled, got into my car and drove away.
Peace :)
Checkout Line
Monday, August 23rd 2010
I had to pick up a reflector vest for a race I'm running in this weekend, so I made a trip to the sports store to see if they had them in stock. It was a relief when they told me they did and the lady showed me right to them. Great!
I walked up to the checkout line and saw 2 others gathering in line at the same time. Where is the end of the line and do I let them go ahead of me? You could sense we were all asking ourselves at the same time.
"You can go ahead. You were first." I told one man as he took my offer without hesitation.
I stood behind him and noticed the other man looking impatient. "Sir, you can go ahead. You were here before I was." I offered.
And he stepped ahead quickly too. This will allow myself more time to contemplate my choice on vest style anyway. I realized.
Then the 2nd man got so irritated that he set his items down and walked toward the door where his friend was waiting. "You tired of waiting?" His friend shouted at him, as if to make a point to the store employees.
"Yeah, lets go." He replied. And just then, another lane opened up and I was called up to be helped first. So, in the end, I didn't wait any longer than the first man I let go ahead! Funny how it works out sometimes.
Peace :)
I had to pick up a reflector vest for a race I'm running in this weekend, so I made a trip to the sports store to see if they had them in stock. It was a relief when they told me they did and the lady showed me right to them. Great!
I walked up to the checkout line and saw 2 others gathering in line at the same time. Where is the end of the line and do I let them go ahead of me? You could sense we were all asking ourselves at the same time.
"You can go ahead. You were first." I told one man as he took my offer without hesitation.
I stood behind him and noticed the other man looking impatient. "Sir, you can go ahead. You were here before I was." I offered.
And he stepped ahead quickly too. This will allow myself more time to contemplate my choice on vest style anyway. I realized.
Then the 2nd man got so irritated that he set his items down and walked toward the door where his friend was waiting. "You tired of waiting?" His friend shouted at him, as if to make a point to the store employees.
"Yeah, lets go." He replied. And just then, another lane opened up and I was called up to be helped first. So, in the end, I didn't wait any longer than the first man I let go ahead! Funny how it works out sometimes.
Peace :)
62nd Anniversary
Sunday, August 22nd 2010
Today, I went home to visit my family- my parents, brother, grandparents, aunt, cousins and new baby cousin too! I was so excited to see baby I.D. and he is soooo cute. I fed him and held him as long as I could until it was time to go. We celebrated my grandparents' 62nd wedding anniversary and my cousin P's birthday. 62 years! How magnificent is that? They are still well and happy which is the best part.
I gave my brother a ride to pick up his car on the other side of town, even though we'd be going back out there an hour or so later and he could easily get it then. I didn't mind one bit though. It was nice to spend the one-on-one time with my brother- I don't remember the last time we did that.
What a fabulous summer day with the whole family!
Peace :)
Today, I went home to visit my family- my parents, brother, grandparents, aunt, cousins and new baby cousin too! I was so excited to see baby I.D. and he is soooo cute. I fed him and held him as long as I could until it was time to go. We celebrated my grandparents' 62nd wedding anniversary and my cousin P's birthday. 62 years! How magnificent is that? They are still well and happy which is the best part.
I gave my brother a ride to pick up his car on the other side of town, even though we'd be going back out there an hour or so later and he could easily get it then. I didn't mind one bit though. It was nice to spend the one-on-one time with my brother- I don't remember the last time we did that.
What a fabulous summer day with the whole family!
Peace :)
Newspaper
Saturday, August 21st 2010
On my walk home from the local Farmer's Market, I passed a young girl sitting on the sidewalk selling newspapers. She looked quite bored as she was located in a more quiet area away from the busy foot traffic.
"How much?" I asked.
"50 cents". She answered shyly.
"Ok, I'd like to buy one." I said as I handed her the 3 quarters I had in my pocket leftover from my fruit & veggie treasure finds. As I walked away, I regretted not giving her a dollar at least. Should I go back? No, that might be a little strange. It's not like she was asking for money- I thought to myself.
I'm thinking I might even read the newspaper (it's been ages since I have looked at one!). Maybe next week the girl will move closer to the market where she could sell hundreds- if she wants to sell that many :)
Peace :)
On my walk home from the local Farmer's Market, I passed a young girl sitting on the sidewalk selling newspapers. She looked quite bored as she was located in a more quiet area away from the busy foot traffic.
"How much?" I asked.
"50 cents". She answered shyly.
"Ok, I'd like to buy one." I said as I handed her the 3 quarters I had in my pocket leftover from my fruit & veggie treasure finds. As I walked away, I regretted not giving her a dollar at least. Should I go back? No, that might be a little strange. It's not like she was asking for money- I thought to myself.
I'm thinking I might even read the newspaper (it's been ages since I have looked at one!). Maybe next week the girl will move closer to the market where she could sell hundreds- if she wants to sell that many :)
Peace :)
Saturday, August 21, 2010
Coffee Shop Gift Card
Friday, August 20th 2010
A couple days ago I arrived to work with a phone battery nearly at 0% life left. I thought it was charging all night like usual, but I guess it wasn't fully connected. I would be fine without a phone for the day, but since it's also my music player and I'd be without that all day- I was desperate. Sometimes, I just need to put on my headphones and zone out while working to avoid distraction by all the miscellaneous conversations going on. That's why I wanted to find a charger right away.
Luckily, my coworker had the same connector and was nice enough to hook up my phone to her computer (I was too paranoid that IT would be calling me immediately and I'd be in trouble) and charged it up for me. Thank you, thank you Miss L!
So today I stopped in to her favorite coffee shop and picked up a $5 gift card for her to get a cup of coffee on me. They even had a card designed with the words "Thank You". Perfect!
Peace :)
A couple days ago I arrived to work with a phone battery nearly at 0% life left. I thought it was charging all night like usual, but I guess it wasn't fully connected. I would be fine without a phone for the day, but since it's also my music player and I'd be without that all day- I was desperate. Sometimes, I just need to put on my headphones and zone out while working to avoid distraction by all the miscellaneous conversations going on. That's why I wanted to find a charger right away.
Luckily, my coworker had the same connector and was nice enough to hook up my phone to her computer (I was too paranoid that IT would be calling me immediately and I'd be in trouble) and charged it up for me. Thank you, thank you Miss L!
So today I stopped in to her favorite coffee shop and picked up a $5 gift card for her to get a cup of coffee on me. They even had a card designed with the words "Thank You". Perfect!
Peace :)
Biker
Thursday, August 19th 2010
I decided to take a different route home from work tonight which was a mistake. I ended up in a mass of traffic even though it was well past rush hour and I was stopped at every red light. I could be almost home by now and I'm only 1 mile from the office! -I thought to myself as the irritability rose.
After sitting at one of the red lights for a while, I noticed a biker across the street who was also waiting. Once the light turned green, the biker hesitated to go, thinking I would be making a quick right turn before he could cross. I waited for him though. When he realized I was waiting, he rode across and gave me a nice nod and "thank you".
I have to admit that sometimes I do quickly turn the corner without waiting for pedestrians if it looks like a potential opportunity to miss the green light. But this time, I waited which ended up lowering my irritation level with the traffic once I realized I did something small that someone appreciated. Oh yeah, and after that, I sailed the rest of the way home.
Peace :)
I decided to take a different route home from work tonight which was a mistake. I ended up in a mass of traffic even though it was well past rush hour and I was stopped at every red light. I could be almost home by now and I'm only 1 mile from the office! -I thought to myself as the irritability rose.
After sitting at one of the red lights for a while, I noticed a biker across the street who was also waiting. Once the light turned green, the biker hesitated to go, thinking I would be making a quick right turn before he could cross. I waited for him though. When he realized I was waiting, he rode across and gave me a nice nod and "thank you".
I have to admit that sometimes I do quickly turn the corner without waiting for pedestrians if it looks like a potential opportunity to miss the green light. But this time, I waited which ended up lowering my irritation level with the traffic once I realized I did something small that someone appreciated. Oh yeah, and after that, I sailed the rest of the way home.
Peace :)
Friday, August 20, 2010
Money Out of the Sky
Wednesday, August 18th 2010
It was quite a coincidence when I walked in the door and told D I hadn't done anything nice yet today (well, I've done a few nice things, but nothing to write about) and at the same time we both said "We could drop a dollar bill out the window!" I think he must have seen the dollar bill sitting on the chair at the same time I did, because how else did we have the same idea? Even if he did see it, how did we have the same idea of something we've never done before? Crazy! Sometimes he tells me he can read my mind and I'm beginning to think he can...
That made it a simple decision regardless of where the idea came from. We ran over to the window (12 stories up) and got ready to throw the dollar out. "Should we fold it?" "Should we wad it up?" "Or turn it into a paper airplane?" "Let's just fold it once and let it go!"
And that's what we did. Twice. The first one went all the way around the corner so we tried a 2nd time in hopes that we could see it land and watch someone pick it up. We waited and waited but no one noticed it.
"Sometimes you don't know who is going to be affected by what you do." D told me.
"That's very true and part of the fun sometimes." I replied. On the other hand, you can have a negative affect on people without knowing it too. We won't go into that right now though, let's keep it happy!
Peace :)
It was quite a coincidence when I walked in the door and told D I hadn't done anything nice yet today (well, I've done a few nice things, but nothing to write about) and at the same time we both said "We could drop a dollar bill out the window!" I think he must have seen the dollar bill sitting on the chair at the same time I did, because how else did we have the same idea? Even if he did see it, how did we have the same idea of something we've never done before? Crazy! Sometimes he tells me he can read my mind and I'm beginning to think he can...
That made it a simple decision regardless of where the idea came from. We ran over to the window (12 stories up) and got ready to throw the dollar out. "Should we fold it?" "Should we wad it up?" "Or turn it into a paper airplane?" "Let's just fold it once and let it go!"
And that's what we did. Twice. The first one went all the way around the corner so we tried a 2nd time in hopes that we could see it land and watch someone pick it up. We waited and waited but no one noticed it.
"Sometimes you don't know who is going to be affected by what you do." D told me.
"That's very true and part of the fun sometimes." I replied. On the other hand, you can have a negative affect on people without knowing it too. We won't go into that right now though, let's keep it happy!
Peace :)
Dinner with Grandma H
Tuesday, August 17th 2010
D's grandma lives very close to us, but she hasn't been over to see our new condo yet and we have lived here nearly a year already! I don't even know if I can call it new anymore, although it feels like yesterday that we moved in.
Now D's grandma, I'll call her Grandma H, is a little old-fashioned and was never too excited about the fact that we live together as boyfriend-girlfriend. I think she's gotten used to the idea though and doesn't mind too much anymore. So, it's time to put those worries aside and have her over!
So, last week we invited her to come over tonight and take a tour (studio apartment style tour that takes 4 seconds) and then go out for dinner. As we were leaving the house to head to the restaurant, Grandma H remarked, "Well, that bed looks like it's big enough for the both of you."
I started laughing to myself silently and I'm pretty sure D did the same :) Was she trying to say something in code? It's still a mystery to me, but we had a great evening together and hope Grandma H had lots of fun too!
Peace :)
D's grandma lives very close to us, but she hasn't been over to see our new condo yet and we have lived here nearly a year already! I don't even know if I can call it new anymore, although it feels like yesterday that we moved in.
Now D's grandma, I'll call her Grandma H, is a little old-fashioned and was never too excited about the fact that we live together as boyfriend-girlfriend. I think she's gotten used to the idea though and doesn't mind too much anymore. So, it's time to put those worries aside and have her over!
So, last week we invited her to come over tonight and take a tour (studio apartment style tour that takes 4 seconds) and then go out for dinner. As we were leaving the house to head to the restaurant, Grandma H remarked, "Well, that bed looks like it's big enough for the both of you."
I started laughing to myself silently and I'm pretty sure D did the same :) Was she trying to say something in code? It's still a mystery to me, but we had a great evening together and hope Grandma H had lots of fun too!
Peace :)
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Mail Requests
Monday, August 16th 2010
I opened the mailbox yesterday and there were 3 envelopes addressed to me from organizations requesting donations for charities. I really have a hard time ignoring them even though it seems the more I send them, the more they send letters to me!
This time, one gave me a $1 bill, one a cute beach bag and one didn't have a gift at all. Which I actually prefer, because I'd rather they kept the money they used on the gifts toward their funds!
So, today I wrote a $5 check to the one who gave me the beach bag. I know $5 isn't much, but hopefully it helps a little.
Peace :)
I opened the mailbox yesterday and there were 3 envelopes addressed to me from organizations requesting donations for charities. I really have a hard time ignoring them even though it seems the more I send them, the more they send letters to me!
This time, one gave me a $1 bill, one a cute beach bag and one didn't have a gift at all. Which I actually prefer, because I'd rather they kept the money they used on the gifts toward their funds!
So, today I wrote a $5 check to the one who gave me the beach bag. I know $5 isn't much, but hopefully it helps a little.
Peace :)
Stuffed Zucchini
Sunday, August 15th 2010
I bought lots of yummy veggies at the Farmer's Market yesterday and tonight I put them all together by making stuffed zucchinis for D. I set the table (the place we never sit at since we always eat in front of the tv on the sofa!) and served the gorgeous dinner with music playing in the background. It was all ready when D arrived home from work and the conversation was much better than usual when we're watching tv. Imagine that!
If only it tasted as good as it looked...
We still enjoyed it thoroughly and at least we got our nutrients!
Peace :)
I bought lots of yummy veggies at the Farmer's Market yesterday and tonight I put them all together by making stuffed zucchinis for D. I set the table (the place we never sit at since we always eat in front of the tv on the sofa!) and served the gorgeous dinner with music playing in the background. It was all ready when D arrived home from work and the conversation was much better than usual when we're watching tv. Imagine that!
If only it tasted as good as it looked...
We still enjoyed it thoroughly and at least we got our nutrients!
Peace :)
Monday, August 16, 2010
Summer Celebration
Saturday, August 14th 2010
Tonight we were invited to an outdoor Summer Celebration party at one of D's co-worker's house. To take a hostess gift is only appropriate, so we picked up a bottle of red wine to give the them on our way.
It was kind of funny because we walked into the backyard and realized we forgot the bottle of wine in the car. So, we left to go get it and right then, the hostess came running outside to ask us if we were leaving the party without even saying hi! "No, no, no we just left something in the car and we'll be right back." We told her as we were all laughing.
It looked quite suspicious the way we walked into the backyard, took a look around at all the people and then walked out quickly! We gave them the wine and stayed most of the night, it was a great party!
Peace :)
Tonight we were invited to an outdoor Summer Celebration party at one of D's co-worker's house. To take a hostess gift is only appropriate, so we picked up a bottle of red wine to give the them on our way.
It was kind of funny because we walked into the backyard and realized we forgot the bottle of wine in the car. So, we left to go get it and right then, the hostess came running outside to ask us if we were leaving the party without even saying hi! "No, no, no we just left something in the car and we'll be right back." We told her as we were all laughing.
It looked quite suspicious the way we walked into the backyard, took a look around at all the people and then walked out quickly! We gave them the wine and stayed most of the night, it was a great party!
Peace :)
Saturday, August 14, 2010
100 Days
Friday, August 13th 2010
Today is a day to celebrate 100 posts on my blog! I didn't know I would make it this far, but here we are. I am confident that the goal of 365 days of good deeds is going to be met in just about 265 days. We are 27% of the way there! Wait, that doesn't sound like much, let's stick with 100 days down :)
I wanted to do something extra special today but I wasn't sure what. I asked my coworker Miss M if she had any ideas and she suggested making banana bread and handing it out downtown as was one of my favorite times. Hmmm, that's a good idea I thought. And I'll be walking dowtown to the movie tonight so I could hand it out along the way!
On my way to the store after work to get bananas, I changed my mind. I decided I would make sandwiches instead! That would be a nice summer time dinner, right? The sandwich idea then turned into sack dinners. It was so fun shopping down the aisles thinking of what I could put together to make the best meal.
I got home and started putting together 6 brown paper sack dinners. I thought, this is so fun. It's Friday night at 7pm. Usually I'd be thinking about what to wear, where to go, and all about my own entertainment after a long week of work. But not tonight! I am thinking about how to add a little brightness to someone's day, something this blog has taught me to focus on daily.
Ahh! We're just about out of mayonnaise, I realized as soon as I opened the jar. So I walked to the market around the corner, but the only jar of mayo they had was expired. Ok, I'll use mustard and what little mayo we have left. Some people might only want mustard anyway, it could just be me who doesn't want a cheese sandwich without mayonnaise!
So I began assembling the sacks - a cheese sandwich, bag of chips, orange juice, 2 candies, 2 mints and a note that says "Made With Love~ For You".
As soon as D arrived home, we started walking downtown with a shopping bag full of sack dinners. We found a few solo men who were very appreciative, one of them touched my arm as I handed it to him and gave me a look with his eyes that was so powerful tears began welling up in my eyes. It was like he was saying thank you with the most meaning anyone has ever thanked someone before.
Some people gave a look like "What are you asking me?" while some don't hesitate a bit and hold their hands out saying "Yes!"
It was a wonderful night. Oh yes, and the movie was fabulous too!
Peace :)
Today is a day to celebrate 100 posts on my blog! I didn't know I would make it this far, but here we are. I am confident that the goal of 365 days of good deeds is going to be met in just about 265 days. We are 27% of the way there! Wait, that doesn't sound like much, let's stick with 100 days down :)
I wanted to do something extra special today but I wasn't sure what. I asked my coworker Miss M if she had any ideas and she suggested making banana bread and handing it out downtown as was one of my favorite times. Hmmm, that's a good idea I thought. And I'll be walking dowtown to the movie tonight so I could hand it out along the way!
On my way to the store after work to get bananas, I changed my mind. I decided I would make sandwiches instead! That would be a nice summer time dinner, right? The sandwich idea then turned into sack dinners. It was so fun shopping down the aisles thinking of what I could put together to make the best meal.
I got home and started putting together 6 brown paper sack dinners. I thought, this is so fun. It's Friday night at 7pm. Usually I'd be thinking about what to wear, where to go, and all about my own entertainment after a long week of work. But not tonight! I am thinking about how to add a little brightness to someone's day, something this blog has taught me to focus on daily.
Ahh! We're just about out of mayonnaise, I realized as soon as I opened the jar. So I walked to the market around the corner, but the only jar of mayo they had was expired. Ok, I'll use mustard and what little mayo we have left. Some people might only want mustard anyway, it could just be me who doesn't want a cheese sandwich without mayonnaise!
So I began assembling the sacks - a cheese sandwich, bag of chips, orange juice, 2 candies, 2 mints and a note that says "Made With Love~ For You".
As soon as D arrived home, we started walking downtown with a shopping bag full of sack dinners. We found a few solo men who were very appreciative, one of them touched my arm as I handed it to him and gave me a look with his eyes that was so powerful tears began welling up in my eyes. It was like he was saying thank you with the most meaning anyone has ever thanked someone before.
Some people gave a look like "What are you asking me?" while some don't hesitate a bit and hold their hands out saying "Yes!"
It was a wonderful night. Oh yes, and the movie was fabulous too!
Peace :)
Movie Tickets
Thursday, August 12th 2010
There is a movie coming out tomorrow that I have been so excited to see since I first heard it was in the making- "Eat Pray Love" based off of the fantastic memoir of Elizabeth Gilbert. I don't think I've ever been this enthusiastic for a movie ever! I was going to see the 12:31am showing tonight but it's a pretty far drive to be coming home at 3am. Plus, it might make tomorrow a pretty rough day at work too.
I invited some friends to go with us tomorrow night on a double date and the tickets would be my treat, gladly! But the other couple isn't able to make it, so it will just be D and me. So I bought the tickets and I can hardly sit still!
Peace :)
There is a movie coming out tomorrow that I have been so excited to see since I first heard it was in the making- "Eat Pray Love" based off of the fantastic memoir of Elizabeth Gilbert. I don't think I've ever been this enthusiastic for a movie ever! I was going to see the 12:31am showing tonight but it's a pretty far drive to be coming home at 3am. Plus, it might make tomorrow a pretty rough day at work too.
I invited some friends to go with us tomorrow night on a double date and the tickets would be my treat, gladly! But the other couple isn't able to make it, so it will just be D and me. So I bought the tickets and I can hardly sit still!
Peace :)
Friday, August 13, 2010
Pasta Salad
Wednesday, August 11th 2010
Should I stay at work until the last possible minute, then race as fast as I can down to the mission to serve dinner? The question arose in my mind at about 5pm. Nope, I'll go home, change clothes and walk the 15 blocks it takes to get there. That way I can get some fresh air, exercise, and enjoy the evening a bit! Let me add the fact that I wasn't talking to myself outloud, just thoughts. You do the same, right? "Yes" is your answer I'm hoping :)
Tonight at the mission was my favorite night so far. I know I said that before, but tonight was even better. There were 7 of us, all about the same age and all there independently~ just because we wanted to be. When I introduced myself to the others and they all said it was their first time there, I decided to help out by giving a little direction. Not in a bossy way, but helpful. It's a mess when you have a kitchen full of people and no one knows what to do. It's impossible to get anything done!
We were doing well preparing and setting up, it was 7:20 and we had until 8 before we open the doors. Then, at 7:30, the man leading the worship came in and said, "They're ready whenever you are!"
I felt my eyes get as big as ping pong balls and said, "Ok, we'll be just a few more minutes!" We had another cake to slice, ice cream in the freezer and salads to bring out. Not much, but when you open the door you better be ready for the 75-150 people eagerly waiting.
It all went as smooth as the pasta noodles in the pasta salad! We had fun, worked hard and served a delicious dinner of fried chicken, beans, salad, olives and ice cream. I hope the diners enjoyed even more than I did.
Peace :)
Should I stay at work until the last possible minute, then race as fast as I can down to the mission to serve dinner? The question arose in my mind at about 5pm. Nope, I'll go home, change clothes and walk the 15 blocks it takes to get there. That way I can get some fresh air, exercise, and enjoy the evening a bit! Let me add the fact that I wasn't talking to myself outloud, just thoughts. You do the same, right? "Yes" is your answer I'm hoping :)
Tonight at the mission was my favorite night so far. I know I said that before, but tonight was even better. There were 7 of us, all about the same age and all there independently~ just because we wanted to be. When I introduced myself to the others and they all said it was their first time there, I decided to help out by giving a little direction. Not in a bossy way, but helpful. It's a mess when you have a kitchen full of people and no one knows what to do. It's impossible to get anything done!
We were doing well preparing and setting up, it was 7:20 and we had until 8 before we open the doors. Then, at 7:30, the man leading the worship came in and said, "They're ready whenever you are!"
I felt my eyes get as big as ping pong balls and said, "Ok, we'll be just a few more minutes!" We had another cake to slice, ice cream in the freezer and salads to bring out. Not much, but when you open the door you better be ready for the 75-150 people eagerly waiting.
It all went as smooth as the pasta noodles in the pasta salad! We had fun, worked hard and served a delicious dinner of fried chicken, beans, salad, olives and ice cream. I hope the diners enjoyed even more than I did.
Peace :)
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Dollar Tree
Tuesday, August 10th 2010
D and I felt too tired to cook tonight after we both arrived home from work at about 8:30pm, so we started walking toward our favorite spot for $1.99 breakfast and $1 beers! On the way there, we stopped by "The Dollar Tree" store and taped a $1 bill to the front door (which was propped open).
I was hoping this would be found by someone on their way in so they could buy any item in the entire store they wanted with the extra dollar. However, as we began walking away, they started closing the doors.
"Let's watch and see what happens." D said.
So we stood at a distance and watched the lady pull it off the door without hesitation. She looked at it with such confusion and held it up toward one of her co-workers. She didn't move for a minute and I was afraid we would be caught- as if we'd done something wrong and they were trying to figure out who did it.
She continued on out of our sight, so we laughed and walked away. Well, that didn't quite go as expected, but hey- it was quite entertaining and maybe the lady ended up buying a $1 beer with it at the same pub we were!
Peace :)
D and I felt too tired to cook tonight after we both arrived home from work at about 8:30pm, so we started walking toward our favorite spot for $1.99 breakfast and $1 beers! On the way there, we stopped by "The Dollar Tree" store and taped a $1 bill to the front door (which was propped open).
I was hoping this would be found by someone on their way in so they could buy any item in the entire store they wanted with the extra dollar. However, as we began walking away, they started closing the doors.
"Let's watch and see what happens." D said.
So we stood at a distance and watched the lady pull it off the door without hesitation. She looked at it with such confusion and held it up toward one of her co-workers. She didn't move for a minute and I was afraid we would be caught- as if we'd done something wrong and they were trying to figure out who did it.
She continued on out of our sight, so we laughed and walked away. Well, that didn't quite go as expected, but hey- it was quite entertaining and maybe the lady ended up buying a $1 beer with it at the same pub we were!
Peace :)
Miss JP's Birthday
Monday, August 9th 2010
Yesterday was my co-worker, Miss JP's birthday and since it was Sunday, we decided to celebrate today! I stopped by the store on my way in and picked up a cute little pot of pink flowers. One girl brought a card for everyone to sign, and another brought a cake and a "Happy Birthday" balloon. (The lemon cake was delicious by the way)
I think Miss JP was surprised and excited. I hope she didn't think we missed it since we didn't say much on Friday. A couple days before, the day after...it's all the same!
Peace :)
Yesterday was my co-worker, Miss JP's birthday and since it was Sunday, we decided to celebrate today! I stopped by the store on my way in and picked up a cute little pot of pink flowers. One girl brought a card for everyone to sign, and another brought a cake and a "Happy Birthday" balloon. (The lemon cake was delicious by the way)
I think Miss JP was surprised and excited. I hope she didn't think we missed it since we didn't say much on Friday. A couple days before, the day after...it's all the same!
Peace :)
Sunday, August 8, 2010
Airport Pick-Up
Sunday, August 8th 2010
D has been away at Lake Tahoe since Thursday for a bachelor party. The time has gone by fast, yet I've kind of been looking forward to having him back :)
Yesterday he asked me if I would want to pick him up at the airport, even though it's a quick train ride home. "Sure, I should be able to after work." I answered.
I went in for a few hours to catch up on some things at work, then left to make sure I'd make it to the airport in time. It was a nice summer afternoon drive with the windows down and it was good to see D sooner than I would have if he rode the train :)
Peace :)
D has been away at Lake Tahoe since Thursday for a bachelor party. The time has gone by fast, yet I've kind of been looking forward to having him back :)
Yesterday he asked me if I would want to pick him up at the airport, even though it's a quick train ride home. "Sure, I should be able to after work." I answered.
I went in for a few hours to catch up on some things at work, then left to make sure I'd make it to the airport in time. It was a nice summer afternoon drive with the windows down and it was good to see D sooner than I would have if he rode the train :)
Peace :)
French Fries
Saturday, August 7th 2010
My mom came up today to visit and to go to an old family friend's wedding with me. I drove us the 30 miles it took to get there, which includes a couple of wrong turns and a few miles of heading in the opposite direction than we should have been going!
We made it eventually and had a few minutes to spare, so it all worked out. The wedding was beautiful, and the reception was so fun. We had a great time.
After we got home, I suggested we walk over to one of my mom's favorite restaurants. The restaurant is in an old hotel only a few blocks away. She had a glass of wine, I had a fruity cocktail and we shared a bowl of the best french fries in town! I was lucky she let me pick up the tab on our way out. I just love having my mom up to visit!
Peace :)
My mom came up today to visit and to go to an old family friend's wedding with me. I drove us the 30 miles it took to get there, which includes a couple of wrong turns and a few miles of heading in the opposite direction than we should have been going!
We made it eventually and had a few minutes to spare, so it all worked out. The wedding was beautiful, and the reception was so fun. We had a great time.
After we got home, I suggested we walk over to one of my mom's favorite restaurants. The restaurant is in an old hotel only a few blocks away. She had a glass of wine, I had a fruity cocktail and we shared a bowl of the best french fries in town! I was lucky she let me pick up the tab on our way out. I just love having my mom up to visit!
Peace :)
30 Great Campgrounds
Friday, August 6th 2010
One day a few weeks back, a lady from another department stopped me to ask a question. "This might sound strange, but do you go camping?" She asked.
"I haven't gone in years until last weekend when we stayed in a cabin at the lake, which wasn't really camping..." I began to answer.
"Well, we just bought a lot of camping supplies and want to take our kids somewhere they can go swimming."
"I'll ask the girl that sits next to me if she has some ideas because she goes with her family every other weekend." I said and went straight back to the source- Miss J. Miss J gave her the info needed and later she told me she made reservations for 2 weekend camping trips.
So today, I was getting ready for work and saw a magazine on my coffee table- "30 Great Campgrounds". Perfect! I'll take this to work and give it to the lady.
Suddenly it was 5pm on Friday afternoon and I still hadn't done anything with the magazine. So I sent an email hoping she'd remember who I was and not think I was someone random offering a magazine to her via email. She replied right away and I took it over to her department. She acted very appreciatively and thankful.
I said, "I don't know how far away these places are but hopefully there are some good ideas at least."
"It will give me a little more knowledge than I have now." She said as I smiled back and walked away. How sweet of a sentence is that?!
Peace :)
One day a few weeks back, a lady from another department stopped me to ask a question. "This might sound strange, but do you go camping?" She asked.
"I haven't gone in years until last weekend when we stayed in a cabin at the lake, which wasn't really camping..." I began to answer.
"Well, we just bought a lot of camping supplies and want to take our kids somewhere they can go swimming."
"I'll ask the girl that sits next to me if she has some ideas because she goes with her family every other weekend." I said and went straight back to the source- Miss J. Miss J gave her the info needed and later she told me she made reservations for 2 weekend camping trips.
So today, I was getting ready for work and saw a magazine on my coffee table- "30 Great Campgrounds". Perfect! I'll take this to work and give it to the lady.
Suddenly it was 5pm on Friday afternoon and I still hadn't done anything with the magazine. So I sent an email hoping she'd remember who I was and not think I was someone random offering a magazine to her via email. She replied right away and I took it over to her department. She acted very appreciatively and thankful.
I said, "I don't know how far away these places are but hopefully there are some good ideas at least."
"It will give me a little more knowledge than I have now." She said as I smiled back and walked away. How sweet of a sentence is that?!
Peace :)
Caught Ya Card
Thursday, August 5th 2010
It was near the end of the workday and as I closed my desk drawer, I saw my "Caught Ya" cards that I had forgotten were there.
I thought, who could I give one of these cheesy-yet-thoughtful cards to? Tori! That's who. Tori is a girl who has been working as a temporary employee with us for the past 6 weeks or so. She is doing a great job and works very hard. She is one of the first temporary employees to come in early and stay late almost every day of the week! We are very thankful to have her and hope she stays for a long time.
So I filled out one of cards which says something like "Tori has been caught doing something right! She has shown dedication, hard work and is a pleasure to work with."
I set it on her desk so she'd find it first thing the next morning.
Peace :)
It was near the end of the workday and as I closed my desk drawer, I saw my "Caught Ya" cards that I had forgotten were there.
I thought, who could I give one of these cheesy-yet-thoughtful cards to? Tori! That's who. Tori is a girl who has been working as a temporary employee with us for the past 6 weeks or so. She is doing a great job and works very hard. She is one of the first temporary employees to come in early and stay late almost every day of the week! We are very thankful to have her and hope she stays for a long time.
So I filled out one of cards which says something like "Tori has been caught doing something right! She has shown dedication, hard work and is a pleasure to work with."
I set it on her desk so she'd find it first thing the next morning.
Peace :)
Thursday, August 5, 2010
Prayers
Wednesday, August 4th 2010
A few years ago my friends' mom battled cancer, overcame it with a positive outlook, and now it has come back. It doesn't sound good, but when would it? I guess only if you're talking about being cured of it. There is always a chance, I like to tell myself.
There is a website set up for her, which I'll share with you as soon as I find the address (I just had it yesterday!). Today I prayed for Ms. L and her family, as I will try to continue everyday. Your thoughts and prayers are welcome too :)
Peace :)
A few years ago my friends' mom battled cancer, overcame it with a positive outlook, and now it has come back. It doesn't sound good, but when would it? I guess only if you're talking about being cured of it. There is always a chance, I like to tell myself.
There is a website set up for her, which I'll share with you as soon as I find the address (I just had it yesterday!). Today I prayed for Ms. L and her family, as I will try to continue everyday. Your thoughts and prayers are welcome too :)
Peace :)
Earrings
Tuesday, August 3rd 2010
Today is D's niece & nephew's birthday. We planned to meet the family at Chuck-e-Cheese's for a little birthday party tonight! I was actually very excited for this. I hadn't been to Chuck-e-Cheese's in over 15 years!
I had the gifts ready for the kids, but I thought it would be nice to take something to the mother of the birthday kids and D's dad's girlfriend too. A co-worker brought in 3 baskets of beautiful earrings made by her mom, so that was the perfect gift idea! Or was it?
I had 2 really nice pairs of earrings in my purse and thought- I'm not sure if they wear earrings, so I'll have them ready and check out their ears when I get there. "Check out their ears"- There's a phrase you don't hear everyday!
So, it turns out they either were both not wearing any earrings or they don't have pierced ears, I was having trouble determining for sure. I ended up chickening out and left them in my bag. Needless to say, I didn't exactly succeed since I didn't give them the gift, but it was the thought, right?
Oh! D and I did give all of our game tickets to the kids so they could get some more valuable prizes- like a purple ring and lollipops!
Peace :)
Today is D's niece & nephew's birthday. We planned to meet the family at Chuck-e-Cheese's for a little birthday party tonight! I was actually very excited for this. I hadn't been to Chuck-e-Cheese's in over 15 years!
I had the gifts ready for the kids, but I thought it would be nice to take something to the mother of the birthday kids and D's dad's girlfriend too. A co-worker brought in 3 baskets of beautiful earrings made by her mom, so that was the perfect gift idea! Or was it?
I had 2 really nice pairs of earrings in my purse and thought- I'm not sure if they wear earrings, so I'll have them ready and check out their ears when I get there. "Check out their ears"- There's a phrase you don't hear everyday!
So, it turns out they either were both not wearing any earrings or they don't have pierced ears, I was having trouble determining for sure. I ended up chickening out and left them in my bag. Needless to say, I didn't exactly succeed since I didn't give them the gift, but it was the thought, right?
Oh! D and I did give all of our game tickets to the kids so they could get some more valuable prizes- like a purple ring and lollipops!
Peace :)
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Family
Monday, August 2nd 2010
Tonight is my cousin's high school baseball awards ceremony at the baseball park next to my house. My family, including 2 cousins, 2 uncles, my mom, aunt, grandmother and grandfather all met at my house before the ceremony. I raced home from work, traffic heavier than usual (wouldn't you know?) and arrived home at the same time they all got here.
I was quite stressed, but it was ok because I had the groceries ready, all I had to do was set up the food. Since it was pretty casual, I don't think they minded that I wasn't exactly ready on time. We had fun no matter what! I love my family so much.
The ceremony was short but sweet and we took some good pictures. Congratulations J!
Peace :)
Tonight is my cousin's high school baseball awards ceremony at the baseball park next to my house. My family, including 2 cousins, 2 uncles, my mom, aunt, grandmother and grandfather all met at my house before the ceremony. I raced home from work, traffic heavier than usual (wouldn't you know?) and arrived home at the same time they all got here.
I was quite stressed, but it was ok because I had the groceries ready, all I had to do was set up the food. Since it was pretty casual, I don't think they minded that I wasn't exactly ready on time. We had fun no matter what! I love my family so much.
The ceremony was short but sweet and we took some good pictures. Congratulations J!
Peace :)
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Eggs
Sunday, August 1st 2010
Coming up this week is D's twin niece & nephew's 4th birthday! So today we went to the science museum to look for some fun gifts for them. We didn't have much luck, the toys were either too boring looking or too advanced for a 4 year old. We did find, however, a toy egg with a chicken and one with a turtle. You soak the egg in water and after 48-72 hours the baby chick and turtle are supposed to hatch! How cool is that?
The little egg wasn't quite enough, so we drove to another store and found a darling little pink dress and a boyish outfit to wrap up for them too.
I sure hope the eggs actually do hatch :)
Peace :)
Coming up this week is D's twin niece & nephew's 4th birthday! So today we went to the science museum to look for some fun gifts for them. We didn't have much luck, the toys were either too boring looking or too advanced for a 4 year old. We did find, however, a toy egg with a chicken and one with a turtle. You soak the egg in water and after 48-72 hours the baby chick and turtle are supposed to hatch! How cool is that?
The little egg wasn't quite enough, so we drove to another store and found a darling little pink dress and a boyish outfit to wrap up for them too.
I sure hope the eggs actually do hatch :)
Peace :)
Sunday, August 1, 2010
Old Friend's Wedding
Saturday, July 31st 2010
Tonight we went to the 3rd wedding of the summer. This one was for one of my best friends from my hometown, who was also my roommate for approximately 4 years. His new wife was my rommate for a little while too. They are such a sweet couple and I am so excited for them. Since they live in California now, I haven't seen them in months! It was fantastic to get the opportunity to congratulate them in person on their big day.
The wedding was so special. The ceremony took place in a chapel, the reception at a nearby historical home with a giant grassy area full of white tablecloth-lined tables where everyone gathered. Old friends, good food, hilarious and tear-jerking speeches were all part of the evening.
We wanted to give them something nice, but after imagining how they would transport a big crystal bowl back to California, I decided a little cash might be easier :)
Congratulations J & T!
Peace :)
Tonight we went to the 3rd wedding of the summer. This one was for one of my best friends from my hometown, who was also my roommate for approximately 4 years. His new wife was my rommate for a little while too. They are such a sweet couple and I am so excited for them. Since they live in California now, I haven't seen them in months! It was fantastic to get the opportunity to congratulate them in person on their big day.
The wedding was so special. The ceremony took place in a chapel, the reception at a nearby historical home with a giant grassy area full of white tablecloth-lined tables where everyone gathered. Old friends, good food, hilarious and tear-jerking speeches were all part of the evening.
We wanted to give them something nice, but after imagining how they would transport a big crystal bowl back to California, I decided a little cash might be easier :)
Congratulations J & T!
Peace :)
L's Birthday
Friday, July 30th 2010
Tonight we had D's parents & brother and sister-in-law over for his mom, L's birthday. We served wine, appetizers, and live jazz music- right off the tv! We then walked a couple blocks to a nearby Mexican restaurant, the boys always a half-block ahead while we girls chased them in our high heels.
The food was delicious and we laughed more than we ate. It was wonderful. Then we walked back home where dessert was waiting- lemon cream puffs and cupcakes from L's favorite bakery. D made some fancy espresso drinks and we laughed some more!
Happy birthday L :)
Peace :)
Tonight we had D's parents & brother and sister-in-law over for his mom, L's birthday. We served wine, appetizers, and live jazz music- right off the tv! We then walked a couple blocks to a nearby Mexican restaurant, the boys always a half-block ahead while we girls chased them in our high heels.
The food was delicious and we laughed more than we ate. It was wonderful. Then we walked back home where dessert was waiting- lemon cream puffs and cupcakes from L's favorite bakery. D made some fancy espresso drinks and we laughed some more!
Happy birthday L :)
Peace :)
No Reply Necessary
Thursday, July 29th 2010
Two good friends of ours who have been dating and living together for many years, have recently split. It was shocking news to hear and very sad. The guy is one of D's old time friends and the girl has recently become my friend even outside of the boys' circle- she's one of the girls on my recent Vegas trip.
I wasn't sure if the rumor was true at first (and I hoped it was just that- a rumor), but once it was confirmed certain, I decided I really wanted to send her an email to let her know I care.
I wrote a semi-brief note, not to dwell on the negative but show her I'm here if she needs anything (amongst some other kind words that took 4 proof-reads and re-do's) and let's get together for a girl's night out next weekend!
I'm hoping for a reply one day soon, but if I don't get one I'll understand. I shouldn't be expecting a reply on anything I send out, just like I shouldn't expect a thank you when doing something nice either. The point is to send out love, for the sake of just that- sending it out. Period. No reply necessary.
Peace :)
Two good friends of ours who have been dating and living together for many years, have recently split. It was shocking news to hear and very sad. The guy is one of D's old time friends and the girl has recently become my friend even outside of the boys' circle- she's one of the girls on my recent Vegas trip.
I wasn't sure if the rumor was true at first (and I hoped it was just that- a rumor), but once it was confirmed certain, I decided I really wanted to send her an email to let her know I care.
I wrote a semi-brief note, not to dwell on the negative but show her I'm here if she needs anything (amongst some other kind words that took 4 proof-reads and re-do's) and let's get together for a girl's night out next weekend!
I'm hoping for a reply one day soon, but if I don't get one I'll understand. I shouldn't be expecting a reply on anything I send out, just like I shouldn't expect a thank you when doing something nice either. The point is to send out love, for the sake of just that- sending it out. Period. No reply necessary.
Peace :)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)