FRIDAY
Friday arrived and Holly and I were both anxious to get on the plane to Vegas. Trouble is, she had to work; her job does not allow her to take off or get out of work early on the last day of the month and so we prepared for that.
However, things worked out just fine: she WAS able to get done early due to low volume of work. I picked her up at 3:50 and we made our way to the airport.
We both haven't flown under the increased security, so we wanted to make sure we gave ourselves plenty of time to get through security and make our flight. The security wasn't all that bad really and we were at the gate by 5:30 for our 6:50 flight. We checked in for our flight, only to find that Southwest overbooked the plane. I received my confirmation, but Holly didn't. Great.
As the time to board grew closer, we considered taking the offer of free one-way tickets the next morning and a voucher to volunteer to bump from the flight. Fortunately for us, we didn't have to as they called Holly's name for her confirmation while the "A" group was boarding. The flight was full; not an empty seat.
Holly boarded about 13 spots before I did, and as things go, we didn't get to sit together; at least we were on the plane!
The flight itself wasn't bad; at night it's tough to tell where you are, although the pilot pointed out Denver before we flew over the Rockies. We had some turbulence, but nothing too bad.
We deplaned and waited for our bag to come out on the conveyor, then went to grab a taxi back to the airport. The vistors and cabs both are slotted to allow for an efficient loading process and we were hotel bound in 15 minutes.
We got to the hotel, checked in and were headed to the room when we were offered a "free" show. Upon further review, we were getting slotted into a presentation for a time share here in Vegas...more on that later.
Get to the room, set the bags down and just get our bearings; it was almost midnight back home and we felt it. I was hungry, so we headed back downstairs to grab a bite to eat.
SATURDAY
Woke up Saturday with the agenda to walk around a bit and play some games in the casino. Had breakfast at McDonald's in the hotel, then walked from Excalibur down to Bellagio and back, taking pictures all the way down. We had hoped to see the fountains at Bellagio, but were an hour too early, so we made our way back to the Excalibur to relax in our room. Holly laid down for a nap and I headed downstairs to watch the Nationwide race and have a beer.
After Holly's nap, we took in the casino. We played the slots, Holly having better luck than I did. I wandered off and found the race in one of the bars while Holly headed back to the room when she was done gambling.
We vegged out in the room for a bit, then headed out to see the Strip at night. We went to the Hard Rock for a light dinner since it was my birthday :) Took pictures of the guitars and other memorabilia on display. After that, we came back to the hotel and crashed.
SUNDAY - RACEDAY
Up at 7:30 to walk over to Tropicana to get the shuttle bus passes to the racetrack. Came back and grabbed breakfast for Holly and I on the way up to the room.
Wait in line for the shuttle bus, then take a 45 minute ride from the Tropicana to the track. We were allowed to cut through Nellis Air Force Base and got to see some birds pretty close up. If I knew which ones I would tell you.
Get to the track and off the bus. First stop: scanner booth. Rented a scanner and then we made our way to our seats. We were dropped off behind turn 2 and we had to walk to turn 4...the long way...uphill to the front stretch...but we survived.
We had FANTASTIC seats and could see the whole track from where we were. The sun was bright and the weather was perfect! I fetched a couple sodas and other snacks for each of us. I love the pageantry before a race: the driver introductions, the prayer for a safe race and the command to start the engines...nothing's more fun than Holly and I sharing it with 140,000 of new friends :)
We saw the "major" incident of the race in front of us on lap 90, but otherwise it was a clean race.
After the race, we made our way back to the line for the shuttle bus. Someone didn't relay the message that the race was over, and we wait over 2 hours for a shuttle bus...kinda ridiculous, but made it back intact, making conversation with the Canucks in line behind us while waiting.
When we got back to the room, we were spent, sun burnt a bit and hungry. Neither one of us wanted to go anywhere, so we ordered room service for dinner. I ordered a chef salad and Holly a chicken quesadilla, with cheesecake for desert...we were told it would 90 minutes to 2 hours for the food...and we were fine with that.
Food arrived only an hour later and was wheeled in. The salad was in a 12 inch salad bowl and was huge. Holly's quesadilla was in a hot serving tray....everything tasted great!! I destroyed my salad and finish the quesadilla...Holly commented that she's never seen me eat so much in one sitting :P After that...bedtime
MONDAY
We slept in on Monday...didn't bother to set an alarm. We grabbed breakfast at the hotel buffet; stuffed ourselves silly on scrambled eggs, sasuage and biscuits and gravy.
Once we were done with breakfast, we took another stroll down the Strip. Holly wanted to re-visit the store she bought a purse at on Saturday night for some other accessories, so we headed there. She found a very nice necklace that she like more than the other half dozen things she wanted :P
We came back to the room to rest and I started writing this entry. We then hit the casino floor one more time, trying in vain to break even...yeah, like that was gonna happen.
After the casino, we returned to the room for a while before heading to In-N-Out for a burger..first time!!! Loved it!!
One more stop by the room, then we walked down to see the Bellagio fountain show; we stayed for 3 different shows and loved them all.
We returned to the hotel, stopped by the convenience store for some snacks, then retired to our room so that we could get up at 4:30am to catch our 7 am flight home.
We will be back!!
In case you didn't figured it out, the title of this entry is also a link to the Facebook page with the pictures from our trip :P
Monday, March 1, 2010
Friday, February 19, 2010
Week 1 of being unemployed
So, I've now been unemployed for a week.
It still sucks.
I've applied for 14 jobs via job websites and thru references from friends.
I'm trying to be up and to "work" by 8am, that is, showered, dressed, fed and to my desk looking for a job. I have lunch around 11 or so.
I can't shake the weird feeling of being laid off, which is good I suppose; I don't want to get complacent.
My wife continues to being my biggest cheerleader and for that I am grateful.
It still sucks.
I've applied for 14 jobs via job websites and thru references from friends.
I'm trying to be up and to "work" by 8am, that is, showered, dressed, fed and to my desk looking for a job. I have lunch around 11 or so.
I can't shake the weird feeling of being laid off, which is good I suppose; I don't want to get complacent.
My wife continues to being my biggest cheerleader and for that I am grateful.
Friday, February 12, 2010
Where do I go from here?
I lost my job today.
1:20 in the afternoon.
Turned in my keys and was walked out the door.
Why? The economy...if no one's building, no one's wiring, and that means parts aren't being sold.
Made some phone calls on my way home, first to my wife, then to the guys I've worked with at the store level for the last couple years. All the guys were shocked, to say the least.
Called my parents to let then know.
Filed for unemployment online.
I've never been let go from a job before, so it's all still sinking in.
Holly and I will talk through some things tonight, and Monday will feel really weird.
Where to from here?
1:20 in the afternoon.
Turned in my keys and was walked out the door.
Why? The economy...if no one's building, no one's wiring, and that means parts aren't being sold.
Made some phone calls on my way home, first to my wife, then to the guys I've worked with at the store level for the last couple years. All the guys were shocked, to say the least.
Called my parents to let then know.
Filed for unemployment online.
I've never been let go from a job before, so it's all still sinking in.
Holly and I will talk through some things tonight, and Monday will feel really weird.
Where to from here?
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Night and Day
Holly and I have been married six months now; we're still making adjustments as far as living together.
I commented last night that I think that a one spouse is a compliment to the other; some people get a spouse who is just like them, others get a spouse who is the complete opposite.
Holly and I fall into the opposite category.
Don't get me wrong, the opposite thing works out great for both of us. There are times I need motivation to do task oriented things that my ADD mind can't/won't track with; Holly sometimes needs positive encouragement, like after having a rough day at work.
Point is, I love my wife, and I can't imagine being married to anyone else...it just doesn't work.
I commented last night that I think that a one spouse is a compliment to the other; some people get a spouse who is just like them, others get a spouse who is the complete opposite.
Holly and I fall into the opposite category.
Don't get me wrong, the opposite thing works out great for both of us. There are times I need motivation to do task oriented things that my ADD mind can't/won't track with; Holly sometimes needs positive encouragement, like after having a rough day at work.
Point is, I love my wife, and I can't imagine being married to anyone else...it just doesn't work.
Saturday, January 23, 2010
Night of the Braindead Teenage Twits
Holly and I went on a date last night...be a while since we had done that. We decided to do dinner and a movie.
We went to see Sherlock Holmes in Delafield...yes, you need to go see it.
We got there early and grabbed a snack and a soda before the movie to hold us until dinner. When the theater was available, we made our way in and chose our seats.
At some point before the movie started, 8 teens made their way into the theater and began looking for seats. Fortunately, Holly and I were the winners of the "lets pick who to annoy" challenge.
They took up seats behind us and immediately started talking...actually, continued talking whatever they were talking about as they walked into the theater.
I looked at Holly and rolled my eyes. We didn't drop $19 to listen to these skinny jean wearing, bubble gum popping morons ruin the movie for us. Holly picked up on my cue and after another preview filled with chatter from behind, turned to the group and said "you guys aren't going to talk through the whole movie, are you?"
That shut them up. One of them answered meekly "no." We thanked them and glanced at each other and smiled. Then the movie started.
Why did I let Holly say something instead of me? She tends to be softer about it than I am. :)
We went to see Sherlock Holmes in Delafield...yes, you need to go see it.
We got there early and grabbed a snack and a soda before the movie to hold us until dinner. When the theater was available, we made our way in and chose our seats.
At some point before the movie started, 8 teens made their way into the theater and began looking for seats. Fortunately, Holly and I were the winners of the "lets pick who to annoy" challenge.
They took up seats behind us and immediately started talking...actually, continued talking whatever they were talking about as they walked into the theater.
I looked at Holly and rolled my eyes. We didn't drop $19 to listen to these skinny jean wearing, bubble gum popping morons ruin the movie for us. Holly picked up on my cue and after another preview filled with chatter from behind, turned to the group and said "you guys aren't going to talk through the whole movie, are you?"
That shut them up. One of them answered meekly "no." We thanked them and glanced at each other and smiled. Then the movie started.
Why did I let Holly say something instead of me? She tends to be softer about it than I am. :)
Thursday, December 24, 2009
2009 in Review
All the cool kids are doing year end lists, so why not me too??
The first six months of the year are hard to recall, honestly. I'm sure something good happened, but I can't remember >.<
In June I moved to Oconomowoc to be close to my job. I managed a branch location for an electrical distributor based in Brookfield.
In August, I married the most wonderful woman in the world; she keeps me in check and loves me in spite of my flaws. We honeymooned in the North Woods of Wisconsin; it's been almost 5 months and she hasn't killed me yet, although I'm sure she's entertained the thought.
After being home from the honeymoon for a week, I found out I was being moved from my store back to Brookfield, thus negating several plans Holly and I had. We were able to get a second car, as I needed a car to travel to cover the other branch locations once again. I was upset at first, but have accepted the role I've been given and am thankful to have a job.
Holly was working two jobs prior to our wedding; the first week of September, she was told that the morning job was closing. She was given two weeks extra pay, but we were wondering what God had in store for us. We evaluated and adjusted out budget and discovered that we would be alright financially, we just wouldn't save as much.
Third week of September, Holly is asked if she wants to go full time at Aurora Health Care, the afternoon part time job. She said yes, and began driving to Hartland in the mornings to be an administrative assistant, then driving back to Oconomowoc to do her afternoon data entry duties. We were grateful for the change.
Holly and I have learned how to hit the curveballs that life throws at us. We have also learned not to overreact and look at the situation calmly.
In December, Holly was diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome in her right wrist. The first doctor made the diagnosis and recommended surgery right away. We sought a second opinion from an orthopedic surgeon who said the surgery could wait a few months, and that allowed us to carry out our vacation plans to go to Las Vegas at the end of February for the Nascar race that Holly bought us tickets for...it's my Christmas and Birthday all in one!
I love my wife and I continue to try to be a better husband to her. I make her comfort food when she has a rough day; I warm her when she's cold; I open doors for her; I hold her hand while we watch TV; I fix her computer when it breaks...there is nothing I won't do for my wife.
Merry Christmas to you, and may 2010 be a Blessed year for you.
The first six months of the year are hard to recall, honestly. I'm sure something good happened, but I can't remember >.<
In June I moved to Oconomowoc to be close to my job. I managed a branch location for an electrical distributor based in Brookfield.
In August, I married the most wonderful woman in the world; she keeps me in check and loves me in spite of my flaws. We honeymooned in the North Woods of Wisconsin; it's been almost 5 months and she hasn't killed me yet, although I'm sure she's entertained the thought.
After being home from the honeymoon for a week, I found out I was being moved from my store back to Brookfield, thus negating several plans Holly and I had. We were able to get a second car, as I needed a car to travel to cover the other branch locations once again. I was upset at first, but have accepted the role I've been given and am thankful to have a job.
Holly was working two jobs prior to our wedding; the first week of September, she was told that the morning job was closing. She was given two weeks extra pay, but we were wondering what God had in store for us. We evaluated and adjusted out budget and discovered that we would be alright financially, we just wouldn't save as much.
Third week of September, Holly is asked if she wants to go full time at Aurora Health Care, the afternoon part time job. She said yes, and began driving to Hartland in the mornings to be an administrative assistant, then driving back to Oconomowoc to do her afternoon data entry duties. We were grateful for the change.
Holly and I have learned how to hit the curveballs that life throws at us. We have also learned not to overreact and look at the situation calmly.
In December, Holly was diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome in her right wrist. The first doctor made the diagnosis and recommended surgery right away. We sought a second opinion from an orthopedic surgeon who said the surgery could wait a few months, and that allowed us to carry out our vacation plans to go to Las Vegas at the end of February for the Nascar race that Holly bought us tickets for...it's my Christmas and Birthday all in one!
I love my wife and I continue to try to be a better husband to her. I make her comfort food when she has a rough day; I warm her when she's cold; I open doors for her; I hold her hand while we watch TV; I fix her computer when it breaks...there is nothing I won't do for my wife.
Merry Christmas to you, and may 2010 be a Blessed year for you.
Friday, December 11, 2009
Saturday, December 5, 2009
Limited only by money
So, the trip to Las Vegas trip Holly and I have been planning may not happen. Holly went to the doctor yesterday to have her wrist checked out and we find out she has moderately severe carpal tunnel syndrome in her right wrist.
We've already got the race tickets, and the hotel booked, and were waiting for a credit card cycle to get the plane tickets.
Holly's concern is that she'll be on short term disability for the 6 week recovery time, making only 60% of her pay and that will make things tight financially.
I'm not concerned; if we have to cancel the trip, yes, I'll be bummed since the trip is my Christmas present, but my greater concern is for that of my wife and her health. We can always go to Vegas later; we can always re-sell the tickets.
Holly's disappointed that I won't get a present from her if we don't go; I'm still getting her present for her regardless.
The more important thing for me is that we get her wrist corrected; Vegas can wait.
We've already got the race tickets, and the hotel booked, and were waiting for a credit card cycle to get the plane tickets.
Holly's concern is that she'll be on short term disability for the 6 week recovery time, making only 60% of her pay and that will make things tight financially.
I'm not concerned; if we have to cancel the trip, yes, I'll be bummed since the trip is my Christmas present, but my greater concern is for that of my wife and her health. We can always go to Vegas later; we can always re-sell the tickets.
Holly's disappointed that I won't get a present from her if we don't go; I'm still getting her present for her regardless.
The more important thing for me is that we get her wrist corrected; Vegas can wait.
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Gobble Gobble
Hello Dear Reader,
I hope your Thanksgiving was wonderful and tasty.
First stop on the Turkey Train was my inlaws in Illinois. Jon doesn't do turkey so much, so we had mastacholli for dinner. We had pie and cake after the Packer game was over. We then proceeded to watch Star Trek before the parents headed out.
Three more stops on the Turkey Train. More stories to come.
I hope your Thanksgiving was wonderful and tasty.
First stop on the Turkey Train was my inlaws in Illinois. Jon doesn't do turkey so much, so we had mastacholli for dinner. We had pie and cake after the Packer game was over. We then proceeded to watch Star Trek before the parents headed out.
Three more stops on the Turkey Train. More stories to come.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
100 days!!
So, Holly and I have survived one hundred days of being married. :P
Here's what I have learned:
I snore...loudly. I've taken steps to correct that.
I tend to leave my towel somewhere other than it's bar after a shower. I've taken steps to correct that.
I hit the snooze button too many times. I've taken steps to correct that.
I've learned to wipe down the bathroom sink when I'm done using it.
I've learned that Holly tends to sprawl in her sleep.
She also steals the covers sometimes.
I am the slayer of insects, replacer of soap, remover of trash and head of IT in my home. I also make a mean chicken breast.
We've both learned how to hit curveballs. My job changed roles a week after we got home from the honeymoon, Holly's morning part time job closed, then she got full time at Aurora. We've overcome some money issues, and have started watching every penny with Quicken.
I do my best not to be selfish. Holly wasn't feeling well this weekend, so I did the laundry, asking her about her clothes to make sure I didn't destroy them. All turned out well. I also like making her my chicken as it's become one of her comfort foods.
I'm used to wearing my wedding band, and have gotten many compliments on how cool it looks.
Despite being opposite personalities socially, we make it work. Sometimes, I go out solo, and text Holly updates, although I'm still learning to be more diligent about it.
Our wedding was paid off when we paid the September credit card bill.
My wife enjoys buying big gifts for me, like race tickets in Las Vegas the weekend of my birthday.
I can tell when she wants something, like candy, as she'll snuggle up next to me and throw me the puppy dog eyes. Yeah, there's NO WAY for me to not give in.
She has introduced me to new music, and TV show's I'm not used to watching but now enjoy.
She has me eating out less, and eating better at home, and I love her for it.
I've found one of the most satisfying feelings in the world is being next to my wife, with my arm around her, and it's just us...just us.
God has been faithful and because of His part in our lives, we work together. There have been moments of disagreement, followed by anger and some hurt, but after a time, we come back together, give and receive forgiveness and carry on.
I love my wife.
Here's what I have learned:
I snore...loudly. I've taken steps to correct that.
I tend to leave my towel somewhere other than it's bar after a shower. I've taken steps to correct that.
I hit the snooze button too many times. I've taken steps to correct that.
I've learned to wipe down the bathroom sink when I'm done using it.
I've learned that Holly tends to sprawl in her sleep.
She also steals the covers sometimes.
I am the slayer of insects, replacer of soap, remover of trash and head of IT in my home. I also make a mean chicken breast.
We've both learned how to hit curveballs. My job changed roles a week after we got home from the honeymoon, Holly's morning part time job closed, then she got full time at Aurora. We've overcome some money issues, and have started watching every penny with Quicken.
I do my best not to be selfish. Holly wasn't feeling well this weekend, so I did the laundry, asking her about her clothes to make sure I didn't destroy them. All turned out well. I also like making her my chicken as it's become one of her comfort foods.
I'm used to wearing my wedding band, and have gotten many compliments on how cool it looks.
Despite being opposite personalities socially, we make it work. Sometimes, I go out solo, and text Holly updates, although I'm still learning to be more diligent about it.
Our wedding was paid off when we paid the September credit card bill.
My wife enjoys buying big gifts for me, like race tickets in Las Vegas the weekend of my birthday.
I can tell when she wants something, like candy, as she'll snuggle up next to me and throw me the puppy dog eyes. Yeah, there's NO WAY for me to not give in.
She has introduced me to new music, and TV show's I'm not used to watching but now enjoy.
She has me eating out less, and eating better at home, and I love her for it.
I've found one of the most satisfying feelings in the world is being next to my wife, with my arm around her, and it's just us...just us.
God has been faithful and because of His part in our lives, we work together. There have been moments of disagreement, followed by anger and some hurt, but after a time, we come back together, give and receive forgiveness and carry on.
I love my wife.
Sunday, September 27, 2009
Today was a good day
Today was a good day.
Holly and I had church this morning, and today was Missionfest. We do Missionfest once a year as a way of focusing on those we support both financially and prayerfully who are out in the mission field, whether abroad or at home.
We heard a good sermon on Luke 10:46-52, about how Bartimaeus had his sight restored to him by Jesus, and what he had to do to be there with Jesus.
After church, we skipped out on the potluck and made our way to Miller Park, because Holly surprised me with Brewer's tickets!! We grabbed a couple hot dogs and sodas and settled in for the game. Too bad the Brewers lost, but I was just happy to be there.
After the game, we headed over to Holly's folks for dinner and some catching up. We took the DVDs with our wedding photos with us to show.
We caught a break in the weather, with the heavy rain stopping, to make our way home.
We're both tired from our very full day, but today was a good day. I love Holly so much, and today was a great day to spend together.
Holly and I had church this morning, and today was Missionfest. We do Missionfest once a year as a way of focusing on those we support both financially and prayerfully who are out in the mission field, whether abroad or at home.
We heard a good sermon on Luke 10:46-52, about how Bartimaeus had his sight restored to him by Jesus, and what he had to do to be there with Jesus.
After church, we skipped out on the potluck and made our way to Miller Park, because Holly surprised me with Brewer's tickets!! We grabbed a couple hot dogs and sodas and settled in for the game. Too bad the Brewers lost, but I was just happy to be there.
After the game, we headed over to Holly's folks for dinner and some catching up. We took the DVDs with our wedding photos with us to show.
We caught a break in the weather, with the heavy rain stopping, to make our way home.
We're both tired from our very full day, but today was a good day. I love Holly so much, and today was a great day to spend together.
Thursday, August 27, 2009
I'm enjoying what evenings entail at home: dinner, usually a movie and time with my wife. We're still putting away gifts and acquiring more stuff we need, but for the most part, we've got a nice little groove.
As far as my job, two weeks ago I was re-assigned to the main office from the branch location I was managing, with the job of being the swing man again. Being Swing means that I get to travel to any store where the guy managing (or the sidekick) needs time off. I like the variety and I do well at it; that's why I was brought back to be the Swing. The hard part this time is that I no longer live central to all the stores, but farther west, near the Oconomowoc store I was managing. All that means is that I need to be up sooner to hit Grafton, West Bend or Oak Creek. I get mileage for anything over my normal commute to Brookfield, so it's not too bad. Some nights on the way home, I hit a mess of traffic, like today after the Brewer's game, but I'm thankful that I'm still working right now.
We're still getting used to sleeping next to each other. Both of us wake up in the night and adjust, and I'm sure Beloved wakes up at my snoring, but I think overall, we're doing ok. We take turns cooking and doing the dishes and just enjoy spending time together.
I'm liking this :)
As far as my job, two weeks ago I was re-assigned to the main office from the branch location I was managing, with the job of being the swing man again. Being Swing means that I get to travel to any store where the guy managing (or the sidekick) needs time off. I like the variety and I do well at it; that's why I was brought back to be the Swing. The hard part this time is that I no longer live central to all the stores, but farther west, near the Oconomowoc store I was managing. All that means is that I need to be up sooner to hit Grafton, West Bend or Oak Creek. I get mileage for anything over my normal commute to Brookfield, so it's not too bad. Some nights on the way home, I hit a mess of traffic, like today after the Brewer's game, but I'm thankful that I'm still working right now.
We're still getting used to sleeping next to each other. Both of us wake up in the night and adjust, and I'm sure Beloved wakes up at my snoring, but I think overall, we're doing ok. We take turns cooking and doing the dishes and just enjoy spending time together.
I'm liking this :)
Saturday, August 8, 2009
an outside perspective on our wedding
Our friend Diane offered her take on the wedding proceddings.
Thanks Diane :)
Thanks Diane :)
Thursday, August 6, 2009
Wednesday, honeymoon week
Wednesday
Out the door at 10:30am to head as far north as we could without getting on a boat or leaving Wisconsin. Our destination was the National Shoreline near the Apostle Islands.
The GPS had us taking roads that didn't exist anymore right from the start...when leaving the cabin, we were told to take a left. After driving about, oh, 300 feet, we realized this was no longer a road, but someone's driveway to their cabin. Turn the car around and head back the other way...did I just hear a soft crunching sound? Oh well, off we go.
Once we get going in the right direction, we ended up taking some "roads", if by "roads" you mean there are no trees in the middle of the dirt path, then yes, we were on "roads."
We finally find some pavement again and proceed almost due north. I realized the car felt different and wiggled it a bit side to side. Pull the car over and check the tires. Sure enough, left rear was soft. Proceed down the road at the posted speed limit and slowing down for right hand corners, we finally make it into Mercer, where there appears to be some sort of street festival and a blatant disregard for motor vehicles. Find some fix-a-flat and put that into the tire, then drive a ways up the road to find an air pump to fill the tire the rest of the way.
With that adventure taken care of, we made our way up Highway 51 to Ashland Wisconsin, and stopped for lunch around 1pm, then continued up Highways 2 and 13 to Bayfield where we stopped at the Apostle Islands Visitor's Center to get some info and a map or two. Holly found a cute little lighthouse to give as gift to a family member when we get back. Holly also read a posted notice that one of the islands was re-opened now due to the lack of bear attacks on campers. Tasty.
Back to Highway 13 and north we continued to Red Cliff to find Blueberry Road. Now, the ranger at the Visitor's Center said Blueberry Road was the better option...I humbly disagree. Not that Blueberry Road won't get you to Point Detour, but at some point, the pavement ends and the "road" keeps going.
After travelling about 12 miles or so at 20 miles an hour, we made it to Point Detour. Park the car and make our way down the "stairs". Now, most of the "stairs" were there, but the "landing" halfway down was mostly gone, save for one lone board in the middle. Jumping wasn't an option as you could miss then tumble down into Lake Superior.
Once we made it to the bottom, we found ourselves standing on beautiful red sandstone rocks the size of our car. We could see a couple of the islands not too far offshore, maybe a few miles out. The waves of Superior crashed against the rocks as we walked along the shoreline. We saw a couple of kayakers off the shore headed west.
After monkeying around for a bit, we climbed back up the "stairs" and poked around the campground that was nearby, then headed over to Little Sand Bay. Walking down the pier, we saw that the kayakers had made their way over to the Bay. We took a few more pictures and then got back in the car to start making our way home.
We decied to take the paved route back to Red Cliff, which was much nicer and probably a bit faster then Blueberry Road. Down to Bayfield to snap shots of a couple of beautiful houses, then south to Ashland again.
We made it home about a quarter to 7 in the evening. A very fun day that gave us a few ideas about future getaways :)
Out the door at 10:30am to head as far north as we could without getting on a boat or leaving Wisconsin. Our destination was the National Shoreline near the Apostle Islands.
The GPS had us taking roads that didn't exist anymore right from the start...when leaving the cabin, we were told to take a left. After driving about, oh, 300 feet, we realized this was no longer a road, but someone's driveway to their cabin. Turn the car around and head back the other way...did I just hear a soft crunching sound? Oh well, off we go.
Once we get going in the right direction, we ended up taking some "roads", if by "roads" you mean there are no trees in the middle of the dirt path, then yes, we were on "roads."
We finally find some pavement again and proceed almost due north. I realized the car felt different and wiggled it a bit side to side. Pull the car over and check the tires. Sure enough, left rear was soft. Proceed down the road at the posted speed limit and slowing down for right hand corners, we finally make it into Mercer, where there appears to be some sort of street festival and a blatant disregard for motor vehicles. Find some fix-a-flat and put that into the tire, then drive a ways up the road to find an air pump to fill the tire the rest of the way.
With that adventure taken care of, we made our way up Highway 51 to Ashland Wisconsin, and stopped for lunch around 1pm, then continued up Highways 2 and 13 to Bayfield where we stopped at the Apostle Islands Visitor's Center to get some info and a map or two. Holly found a cute little lighthouse to give as gift to a family member when we get back. Holly also read a posted notice that one of the islands was re-opened now due to the lack of bear attacks on campers. Tasty.
Back to Highway 13 and north we continued to Red Cliff to find Blueberry Road. Now, the ranger at the Visitor's Center said Blueberry Road was the better option...I humbly disagree. Not that Blueberry Road won't get you to Point Detour, but at some point, the pavement ends and the "road" keeps going.
After travelling about 12 miles or so at 20 miles an hour, we made it to Point Detour. Park the car and make our way down the "stairs". Now, most of the "stairs" were there, but the "landing" halfway down was mostly gone, save for one lone board in the middle. Jumping wasn't an option as you could miss then tumble down into Lake Superior.
Once we made it to the bottom, we found ourselves standing on beautiful red sandstone rocks the size of our car. We could see a couple of the islands not too far offshore, maybe a few miles out. The waves of Superior crashed against the rocks as we walked along the shoreline. We saw a couple of kayakers off the shore headed west.
After monkeying around for a bit, we climbed back up the "stairs" and poked around the campground that was nearby, then headed over to Little Sand Bay. Walking down the pier, we saw that the kayakers had made their way over to the Bay. We took a few more pictures and then got back in the car to start making our way home.
We decied to take the paved route back to Red Cliff, which was much nicer and probably a bit faster then Blueberry Road. Down to Bayfield to snap shots of a couple of beautiful houses, then south to Ashland again.
We made it home about a quarter to 7 in the evening. A very fun day that gave us a few ideas about future getaways :)
Monday and Tuesday of the honeymoon
Monday
After waking up and having breakfast, Holly and I headed back into town to walmart to pick up some odds and ends we missed as well as buy the alcohol we were denied the previous night.
Upon returning to the cabin, I tried to get the pontoon boat started to no avail. I knew I was missing something, but wasn't sure what, so we called Volker and GiGi and left a message on their machine.
We headed to the house where I was given a wonderful back massage by Holly; so good in fact, that I fell asleep shortly after she finished. Holly woke me up a short time later to let me know that Volker was on the phone to tell me how to get the boat started.
We decided to try to find the pizza place in town GiGi recommended in the handy guide they left us, but it appeared to be closed. Oh well, Perkins for the win!
After dinner, we cruised to downtown Minocqua to look at some of the shops and maybe plan out a shopping trip. Most stores close at 7, so we made it into only one before just walking around more to work off the monster slice of peanut butter cup pie we had with dinner.
When we returned home, I managed to get the boat started and we took a pleasure cruise around the lake before it was too cool out to enjoy and too dark to see.
Tuesday
Up and at'em at the crack of 9:30, we headed to town around 11:30 and grabbed smoothies at a coffee shop with wireless so we could check online on a couple things and touch base with everyone.
After that, we headed downtown to shop. We stopped at Gaslight Square to poke around some shops and head upstairs to the antique shop. We walked around, just looking at everything in the antique shop and marveling at how old some of it was and how good most of the things were.
After antiquing, we walked some more, then grabbed lunch at T. Murtaugh's pub. Great cheese curds and everything else as well! I got Holly hooked on that quarter game, you know the one, where you dropped one quarter in and try to knock several quarters out. We played that game for quite a while before heading up the road a bit to some more shops. There, we picked up a pewter dragon for Holly, and some cheese, chocolate and fudge for later.
We came home so we could water the plants and clean out the car. With that accomplished, we took a trip to Lake of the Torches casino to try our hand at the games. There weren't too many card table games, other than blackjack, so we tried a couple of slot machines and then landed at some video poker machines. We only took a $20 in each and left the rest at home so we wouldn't mortgage our future. I had fun, but Holly wasn't really to thrilled by it, other than feeling like we were in a Vegas movie.
Home for dinner on the screen porch, then watched the sunset over the lake before the ballgame. As I write this, we're enjoying some of the chocolate and the peanut butter fudge we picked up today and we'll be watching another movie tonight.
After waking up and having breakfast, Holly and I headed back into town to walmart to pick up some odds and ends we missed as well as buy the alcohol we were denied the previous night.
Upon returning to the cabin, I tried to get the pontoon boat started to no avail. I knew I was missing something, but wasn't sure what, so we called Volker and GiGi and left a message on their machine.
We headed to the house where I was given a wonderful back massage by Holly; so good in fact, that I fell asleep shortly after she finished. Holly woke me up a short time later to let me know that Volker was on the phone to tell me how to get the boat started.
We decided to try to find the pizza place in town GiGi recommended in the handy guide they left us, but it appeared to be closed. Oh well, Perkins for the win!
After dinner, we cruised to downtown Minocqua to look at some of the shops and maybe plan out a shopping trip. Most stores close at 7, so we made it into only one before just walking around more to work off the monster slice of peanut butter cup pie we had with dinner.
When we returned home, I managed to get the boat started and we took a pleasure cruise around the lake before it was too cool out to enjoy and too dark to see.
Tuesday
Up and at'em at the crack of 9:30, we headed to town around 11:30 and grabbed smoothies at a coffee shop with wireless so we could check online on a couple things and touch base with everyone.
After that, we headed downtown to shop. We stopped at Gaslight Square to poke around some shops and head upstairs to the antique shop. We walked around, just looking at everything in the antique shop and marveling at how old some of it was and how good most of the things were.
After antiquing, we walked some more, then grabbed lunch at T. Murtaugh's pub. Great cheese curds and everything else as well! I got Holly hooked on that quarter game, you know the one, where you dropped one quarter in and try to knock several quarters out. We played that game for quite a while before heading up the road a bit to some more shops. There, we picked up a pewter dragon for Holly, and some cheese, chocolate and fudge for later.
We came home so we could water the plants and clean out the car. With that accomplished, we took a trip to Lake of the Torches casino to try our hand at the games. There weren't too many card table games, other than blackjack, so we tried a couple of slot machines and then landed at some video poker machines. We only took a $20 in each and left the rest at home so we wouldn't mortgage our future. I had fun, but Holly wasn't really to thrilled by it, other than feeling like we were in a Vegas movie.
Home for dinner on the screen porch, then watched the sunset over the lake before the ballgame. As I write this, we're enjoying some of the chocolate and the peanut butter fudge we picked up today and we'll be watching another movie tonight.
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
So, I got married...
Let's start with the events of the wedding day itself and move on from there.
I woke up at 7:30, hit snooze once and then headed for a shower and shave. I wasn't feeling up to breakfast, as my stomach was a bit uneasy.
Headed to my friend's house to pick up the getaway car. Curtis has a 1964 Corvair Spyder convertible, with the turbocharged V-6 and 4 speed manual. After a quick lesson in how to handle the top, I was off to the church. I hit a spot of rain and had to pull over quick to put the top up.
I get to the church, park the car under the overhang and head inside to get changed. A couple of my guys are already there and the rest join us soon. Being guys, of course we goofed around and made fun of each other while changing. My groomsman Eric hands me the flask I had given him and told me it was mine for the day. He had filled it with MacGillicuddy's, which left me with minty freshy breath and took the edge off of my nerves.
The guy's pictures were set for 10am, and we were in for a treat. Holly and I hired Valo Photography to do our pictures based on the work Valo had done on our friend Emily's wedding last fall. The guys pictures were taken in the gym at church and we got a chance to have some fun. Simon has a shot of me trying to "run away" with my guys holding me back.
Once the guys were done with pictures, we had lunch. Holly's dad had run to get a couple of Counsin's party subs and believe me, subs have never tasted so good. I managed to have a couple of pieces of sub and some soda to calm my churning stomach.
After lunch, the guys headed upstairs for some air and to keep me away from Holly. Basically, we were killing time until the ceremony.
At 12:30, my best man John, Pastor Kent and myself went behind the sanctuary to wait for the ceremony to begin. I took a sip of my flask and felt my nerves calm down a bit. John prayed with me and Kent joined us. I took a couple of peeks outside to see who was already seated then kept getting pulled back out of sight by John or Kent.
We hear our cue to walk out and take our places at the front of the stage. I felt the desire to wave to everyone, so I did, then said "hi guys." Everyone that knows me said "Hi Chad", and laughed some stress out.
The doors open and the couples start walking in. I started to feel the tears come, but held them back. After all the couples were in, the music faded out, then Holly's walk in music was on. At the right moment, the doors open and there was my bride! As her father led her down the aisle, I started to cry. I wiped my eyes because I wanted to see everything. Coming toward me was my bride and she looked amazing!! Adorned in a gorgeous dress, with her hair just right...just wow.
Pastor Kent starts the ceremony and asks Holly's father who gives this woman. Steve answers, "Her mother and I" through teary eyes. He then brought Holly and my hands together and went to sit next to Holly's mom.
I look at Holly and feel at peace. She was smiling at me as we stood there before the Pastor, our friends and the assembly.
As the ceremony progressed, I kept looking at Holly and she at me. We asked Pastor Kent to teach out of the Song of Solomon, which is a great book from the Old Testament of the Bible, giving him a chance to do something he hadn't taught on before.
We asked our friend Nick to play the song for the lighting of the unity candle. At my request, he played "When you Say Nothing at All" which Holly and I found sweetly ironic, given my pechant for talking.
We added the element of communion to our wedding as our faith in Christ is very important, and Pastor Kent was more than willing to lead us in that element. As we stood together after the candle lighting and communion, we sang the last verse of "When You Say Nothing At All" to each other.
I kissed my bride, lovingly and with intent. We turned to face our guests, grinning like fools. The pastor pronounced us Husband and Wife, and we walked out to "It's the End of the World as We Know It" by R.E.M. and danced our way up the aisle. I couldn't contain myself and let out a whoop as we neared the doors to the foyer.
One by one, our couples came out and then we went back in to dismiss our guests. We started on Holly's side with her parents, then to my side to greet my parents. We wanted to dismiss our guests so we could thank each one of them for coming, so we had the bridal party guiding guests downstairs for cake.
It was simply awesome to see so many of our friends come to see us be married. Old friends from growing up, work friends, and current friends. Both Holly and I enjoyed seeing everyone and having a chance to see them all at least once, since we knew it would be difficult to see everyone once we were downstairs for cake and punch.
Once downstairs, we cut the cake. Holly and I each took a forkful to feed each other with, only Holly took a bite of her own cake, leaving me hanging. She smirked at me, then took another forkful and fed me as I her. The cake was then wheeled away to be cut, and the sheet cakes were wheeled in to be eaten. Holly and I set the guests on the cake and then sat for a bit, since we had been standing for a while.
Everyone was getting cake and punch and chatting, people were stopping by to congratulated us. We got some cake and punch and started to take it all in. Here we were, surrounded by loved ones, married, MARRIED!
Around 3, we headed back upstairs for the rest of the pictures. We took pictures with my grandparents first, as they were a bit tired. Once those were taken, we did the usual pictures with the family and bridal party and whatnot.
Once pictures at the church were done, Holly and I planned to take some pictures at the lakefront by the art museum, since that's where we met. We hopped in the car, left the church with the top down on the car, just for the fun of it, then stopped to put the top up so as not to muss Holly's hair.
We arrived at the lakefront to find six other weddings already there for pictures. We changed locations to the small park where Wisconsin Ave turns north, right in front of the art museum. Simon and Jake, the photographers, were having a blast setting up shots and directing us and taking the perfect pictures. We crossed the street and took a shot where Holly and I are on the street with the downtown skyline and the sun behind us.
We moved over in front of the art museum for some more shots, then down to Discovery World for some more fun. Jake made the comment that Holly and I were alot of fun to work with and that they were having fun.
After Discovery World, we headed out to the dinner reception for some final pictures, then food. Once again, surrounded by family, we got to enjoy some excellent food and conversation. We spent a couple hours chatting with friends and thanking them for being part of our special day.
After dinner, we had to take our getaway car back to Curtis. We picked up our car and headed to the Pfister for our first night together. We valet'd the car and a bellman took our bags up to our room. We felt so rich!!! Once in the room, I helped Holly out of her dress so she could shower and change. I needed a bit of normalcy, so I found the Brewer game on TV while I was waiting. Once Holly emerged from the bathroom we retired for the evening...hint hint ;)
We awoke in the morning ready for breakfast. Part of the package we had was a credit to the cafe for breakfast, so we took advantage of it. Holly had a ham and cheese omelet, and I had the biscuits and gravy. We left the cafe feeling quite full.
After packing our things and checking out, we headed to Holly's parent's house to pick up clothes for her for the week, and to say goodbye to Jon and Katie, and Moira. After they left we did some check endorsing and got the car loaded with Holly's things.
We headed to the bank to night drop the checks, only to find there's no night drop slot. We basically had to start over and put the check into ATM envelopes for the deposit....what a pain in the butt!!
We stopped by OUR apartment to grab a couple of small things, like the wine flutes we were given, so we could enjoy the wine someone else gave us. From there, we departed for our destination. The drive was nice: I had the Brewer game on the radio while Holly napped. We stopped for gas and Holly picked up some cheese to snack on for the final leg of the journey.
Once in Minocqua, we found the Walmart and picked up some breakfast and lunch stuff, as well as snacks. We ended up in line behind a lady who seemed to be stockpiling supplies for a kindergarten room. $375 later, she was done, but it was now after 9pm, so we couldn't buy they alcohol we had in the cart, despite being in line 20 minutes...Oh Well.
We got to the cabin about 9:30 and found the key and let ourselves in to find two more cards on the kitchen island, as well as a bottle of champagne and a tourists guide of restaurants in the area. Thanks to Volker and GiGi, and Ziggy and Sandy for that!!!
We unloaded the car, put away the groceries and then sat down in seats that didn't move. Put in a movie and vegged out. About 11:30, I woke Holly up and suggested we move to a bed so we could sleep properly that night.
The most awesome thing for me so far is that I get to sleep next to the woman I love at night, with her next to me, and wake up seeing each other in the morning.
I woke up at 7:30, hit snooze once and then headed for a shower and shave. I wasn't feeling up to breakfast, as my stomach was a bit uneasy.
Headed to my friend's house to pick up the getaway car. Curtis has a 1964 Corvair Spyder convertible, with the turbocharged V-6 and 4 speed manual. After a quick lesson in how to handle the top, I was off to the church. I hit a spot of rain and had to pull over quick to put the top up.
I get to the church, park the car under the overhang and head inside to get changed. A couple of my guys are already there and the rest join us soon. Being guys, of course we goofed around and made fun of each other while changing. My groomsman Eric hands me the flask I had given him and told me it was mine for the day. He had filled it with MacGillicuddy's, which left me with minty freshy breath and took the edge off of my nerves.
The guy's pictures were set for 10am, and we were in for a treat. Holly and I hired Valo Photography to do our pictures based on the work Valo had done on our friend Emily's wedding last fall. The guys pictures were taken in the gym at church and we got a chance to have some fun. Simon has a shot of me trying to "run away" with my guys holding me back.
Once the guys were done with pictures, we had lunch. Holly's dad had run to get a couple of Counsin's party subs and believe me, subs have never tasted so good. I managed to have a couple of pieces of sub and some soda to calm my churning stomach.
After lunch, the guys headed upstairs for some air and to keep me away from Holly. Basically, we were killing time until the ceremony.
At 12:30, my best man John, Pastor Kent and myself went behind the sanctuary to wait for the ceremony to begin. I took a sip of my flask and felt my nerves calm down a bit. John prayed with me and Kent joined us. I took a couple of peeks outside to see who was already seated then kept getting pulled back out of sight by John or Kent.
We hear our cue to walk out and take our places at the front of the stage. I felt the desire to wave to everyone, so I did, then said "hi guys." Everyone that knows me said "Hi Chad", and laughed some stress out.
The doors open and the couples start walking in. I started to feel the tears come, but held them back. After all the couples were in, the music faded out, then Holly's walk in music was on. At the right moment, the doors open and there was my bride! As her father led her down the aisle, I started to cry. I wiped my eyes because I wanted to see everything. Coming toward me was my bride and she looked amazing!! Adorned in a gorgeous dress, with her hair just right...just wow.
Pastor Kent starts the ceremony and asks Holly's father who gives this woman. Steve answers, "Her mother and I" through teary eyes. He then brought Holly and my hands together and went to sit next to Holly's mom.
I look at Holly and feel at peace. She was smiling at me as we stood there before the Pastor, our friends and the assembly.
As the ceremony progressed, I kept looking at Holly and she at me. We asked Pastor Kent to teach out of the Song of Solomon, which is a great book from the Old Testament of the Bible, giving him a chance to do something he hadn't taught on before.
We asked our friend Nick to play the song for the lighting of the unity candle. At my request, he played "When you Say Nothing at All" which Holly and I found sweetly ironic, given my pechant for talking.
We added the element of communion to our wedding as our faith in Christ is very important, and Pastor Kent was more than willing to lead us in that element. As we stood together after the candle lighting and communion, we sang the last verse of "When You Say Nothing At All" to each other.
I kissed my bride, lovingly and with intent. We turned to face our guests, grinning like fools. The pastor pronounced us Husband and Wife, and we walked out to "It's the End of the World as We Know It" by R.E.M. and danced our way up the aisle. I couldn't contain myself and let out a whoop as we neared the doors to the foyer.
One by one, our couples came out and then we went back in to dismiss our guests. We started on Holly's side with her parents, then to my side to greet my parents. We wanted to dismiss our guests so we could thank each one of them for coming, so we had the bridal party guiding guests downstairs for cake.
It was simply awesome to see so many of our friends come to see us be married. Old friends from growing up, work friends, and current friends. Both Holly and I enjoyed seeing everyone and having a chance to see them all at least once, since we knew it would be difficult to see everyone once we were downstairs for cake and punch.
Once downstairs, we cut the cake. Holly and I each took a forkful to feed each other with, only Holly took a bite of her own cake, leaving me hanging. She smirked at me, then took another forkful and fed me as I her. The cake was then wheeled away to be cut, and the sheet cakes were wheeled in to be eaten. Holly and I set the guests on the cake and then sat for a bit, since we had been standing for a while.
Everyone was getting cake and punch and chatting, people were stopping by to congratulated us. We got some cake and punch and started to take it all in. Here we were, surrounded by loved ones, married, MARRIED!
Around 3, we headed back upstairs for the rest of the pictures. We took pictures with my grandparents first, as they were a bit tired. Once those were taken, we did the usual pictures with the family and bridal party and whatnot.
Once pictures at the church were done, Holly and I planned to take some pictures at the lakefront by the art museum, since that's where we met. We hopped in the car, left the church with the top down on the car, just for the fun of it, then stopped to put the top up so as not to muss Holly's hair.
We arrived at the lakefront to find six other weddings already there for pictures. We changed locations to the small park where Wisconsin Ave turns north, right in front of the art museum. Simon and Jake, the photographers, were having a blast setting up shots and directing us and taking the perfect pictures. We crossed the street and took a shot where Holly and I are on the street with the downtown skyline and the sun behind us.
We moved over in front of the art museum for some more shots, then down to Discovery World for some more fun. Jake made the comment that Holly and I were alot of fun to work with and that they were having fun.
After Discovery World, we headed out to the dinner reception for some final pictures, then food. Once again, surrounded by family, we got to enjoy some excellent food and conversation. We spent a couple hours chatting with friends and thanking them for being part of our special day.
After dinner, we had to take our getaway car back to Curtis. We picked up our car and headed to the Pfister for our first night together. We valet'd the car and a bellman took our bags up to our room. We felt so rich!!! Once in the room, I helped Holly out of her dress so she could shower and change. I needed a bit of normalcy, so I found the Brewer game on TV while I was waiting. Once Holly emerged from the bathroom we retired for the evening...hint hint ;)
We awoke in the morning ready for breakfast. Part of the package we had was a credit to the cafe for breakfast, so we took advantage of it. Holly had a ham and cheese omelet, and I had the biscuits and gravy. We left the cafe feeling quite full.
After packing our things and checking out, we headed to Holly's parent's house to pick up clothes for her for the week, and to say goodbye to Jon and Katie, and Moira. After they left we did some check endorsing and got the car loaded with Holly's things.
We headed to the bank to night drop the checks, only to find there's no night drop slot. We basically had to start over and put the check into ATM envelopes for the deposit....what a pain in the butt!!
We stopped by OUR apartment to grab a couple of small things, like the wine flutes we were given, so we could enjoy the wine someone else gave us. From there, we departed for our destination. The drive was nice: I had the Brewer game on the radio while Holly napped. We stopped for gas and Holly picked up some cheese to snack on for the final leg of the journey.
Once in Minocqua, we found the Walmart and picked up some breakfast and lunch stuff, as well as snacks. We ended up in line behind a lady who seemed to be stockpiling supplies for a kindergarten room. $375 later, she was done, but it was now after 9pm, so we couldn't buy they alcohol we had in the cart, despite being in line 20 minutes...Oh Well.
We got to the cabin about 9:30 and found the key and let ourselves in to find two more cards on the kitchen island, as well as a bottle of champagne and a tourists guide of restaurants in the area. Thanks to Volker and GiGi, and Ziggy and Sandy for that!!!
We unloaded the car, put away the groceries and then sat down in seats that didn't move. Put in a movie and vegged out. About 11:30, I woke Holly up and suggested we move to a bed so we could sleep properly that night.
The most awesome thing for me so far is that I get to sleep next to the woman I love at night, with her next to me, and wake up seeing each other in the morning.
Friday, July 17, 2009
This and that...
Wedding preparation moves forward. New apartment is moved into and stuff is being sorted according to usage. What gets used stays upstairs, what doesn't gets banished to the basement.
I'm not all that nervous, at least not yet. Anxious would be a better way to describe what I feel. I'm looking forward to The Day, but I'm also want to make sure I'm preparing myself for the days after that, to be a good husband for my wife. Huh, my wife....that sounds funny to say...I like it....
I don't post here as much as I would perhaps like to, but I tend to get tied up on my other blog and also now with podcasting. I try to keep the more positive stuff here and save the politics for the other blog, and I've been occupied with political happenings.
I'll try to post some more here for ya ;)
I'm not all that nervous, at least not yet. Anxious would be a better way to describe what I feel. I'm looking forward to The Day, but I'm also want to make sure I'm preparing myself for the days after that, to be a good husband for my wife. Huh, my wife....that sounds funny to say...I like it....
I don't post here as much as I would perhaps like to, but I tend to get tied up on my other blog and also now with podcasting. I try to keep the more positive stuff here and save the politics for the other blog, and I've been occupied with political happenings.
I'll try to post some more here for ya ;)
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
busy busy busy
Psssst!
down here!!
yeah, I'm still here, but I've been letting my political side run free for a little while, so here's an update.
Wedding plans are coming along, at least as far as I know. 46 days and counting!
Canada was fun! Beloved and I drove up to Winnipeg to a friend's wedding and to meet one of our bridesmaids. Yes, you read that right...we had a bridesmaid in our wedding who we had never met face to face. Now we have. Calm down.
Work seems to be picking up a little. Orders are still on the smallish side, but volume is up, that is, more foot traffic in the door. Hopefully the orders will follow.
I'm moved. If you want my new address, you have some method of contacting me. Use it.
My new place is huge....especially compared to my last place. Two bedrooms AND a den...very nice.
That's about it...carry on.
down here!!
yeah, I'm still here, but I've been letting my political side run free for a little while, so here's an update.
Wedding plans are coming along, at least as far as I know. 46 days and counting!
Canada was fun! Beloved and I drove up to Winnipeg to a friend's wedding and to meet one of our bridesmaids. Yes, you read that right...we had a bridesmaid in our wedding who we had never met face to face. Now we have. Calm down.
Work seems to be picking up a little. Orders are still on the smallish side, but volume is up, that is, more foot traffic in the door. Hopefully the orders will follow.
I'm moved. If you want my new address, you have some method of contacting me. Use it.
My new place is huge....especially compared to my last place. Two bedrooms AND a den...very nice.
That's about it...carry on.
Thursday, April 30, 2009
growing older
Something I've realized is that I'm not as young as I used to be, and my metabolism has slowed down. I used to be able to eat just about anything and not worry about gaining weight, but now, not so much.
I moved to Milwaukee weighing 160 pounds. Three months later, I was at 175. Now I'm at 205. I supposed 45 pounds in ten years isn't bad, but I'm starting to feel the difference.
In addition to the extra weight, I'm having shortness of breath for no good reason. Simple tasks at work kick my butt.
I've decided to take care of it. My friend Eric recommended two programs for me: 100 push ups and 200 sit ups.
Basically, you do a test run of push ups and sit ups, as many as you can do in one sitting, then you use the chart to start your workout regimen. I started tonight and plan to do Sundays, Tuesday, and Thursday before bed.
I want to lose weight overall, increase my stamina and just feel better overall. Wish me luck :)
I moved to Milwaukee weighing 160 pounds. Three months later, I was at 175. Now I'm at 205. I supposed 45 pounds in ten years isn't bad, but I'm starting to feel the difference.
In addition to the extra weight, I'm having shortness of breath for no good reason. Simple tasks at work kick my butt.
I've decided to take care of it. My friend Eric recommended two programs for me: 100 push ups and 200 sit ups.
Basically, you do a test run of push ups and sit ups, as many as you can do in one sitting, then you use the chart to start your workout regimen. I started tonight and plan to do Sundays, Tuesday, and Thursday before bed.
I want to lose weight overall, increase my stamina and just feel better overall. Wish me luck :)
Monday, March 30, 2009
a tragic loss
This morning I confirmed a hunch I had yesterday.
I open the paper and found this article.
I coached Zach last year in basketball, and Karl would often help me even though he wasn't my assistant.
I also knew Luke, the younger son. Fun kid, precocious and always had a smile on his face.
Right now I'm dealing with that feeling of loss and grief, even though I wasn't all the close to the family, I still knew them.
Please join me in praying for this family as they grieve the loss of a father, a son and a friend and the recovery ahead for Denise, Zach and Amber.
I open the paper and found this article.
I coached Zach last year in basketball, and Karl would often help me even though he wasn't my assistant.
I also knew Luke, the younger son. Fun kid, precocious and always had a smile on his face.
Right now I'm dealing with that feeling of loss and grief, even though I wasn't all the close to the family, I still knew them.
Please join me in praying for this family as they grieve the loss of a father, a son and a friend and the recovery ahead for Denise, Zach and Amber.
Sunday, March 15, 2009
See You at the Show
Saturday night, Holly and I had tickets to go see Nickelback at the Bradley Center. We both enjoy their music and always have a good time at the show.
We went to dinner before hand at Chili's and Holly could hardly contain her excitement. Dinner was quick and we were on our way to the BC.
Parked next to MATC in the surface lot, then headed to the BC with tickets in hand. Got inside about 6:30 or so and headed to our seats before hitting the bathroom before the show started.
Saving Abel was on first...not bad. I only knew one song, but that never stops me from enjoying a band I don't know. Holly looked around before they dropped the lights and commented to me how empty the arena looked. I replied that she should take a look after Saving Abel was done. With that, the house lights dropped and Saving Abel was on.
After Saving Abel, the roadies came out and set the stage for Seether. Seether I'm much more familiar with as they are a little more established, and they didn't disappoint. They played their new single "Fake It", as well as "Broken", and altogether put up a nice set.
After Seether, more roadies. Holly had went to powder her nose, so I sat with our stuff and people watched, one of my favorite activities. Quite a few good looking ladies, and of course I was with the best looking one ;)
Although...there was....I think a bear that had been shaved. This chick was in her late 40s or early 50s, around 300 pounds, whiter than Casper....and she was wearing black thigh high leather boots and a sheer red nightie, with other red fabric covering her in strategic places. What. The. Hell? I saw her make her way up the stairs from the section below us on the arm of a guy who I assume was her husband/boyfriend/handler/parole agent. As she got up to the lane to head out the concourse, a group of people re-entered the arena and looked at her and expressed a bit of shocked and/or disgust.
Holly made her way back to our seats and I told her about the "woman", and we both began waiting anxiously. Sure enough....her "she" came. Holly's jaw dropped, and a few of us in the area we were seated began to do a running commentary are "her" choice of clothes. I thought maybe it was laundry day, and all she had left was the sheer red nightie. Others though "she" was just plain out of her mind. Then, thankfully, the house lights went out and Nickelback was on!!
Lots of Pyro and Video. Lots of guitars....overall great show. Chad Krueger could have talked a little less and rocked a little more, but they managed to get quite a few songs in over 2 hours.
Here's some pics from my iPhone.
We went to dinner before hand at Chili's and Holly could hardly contain her excitement. Dinner was quick and we were on our way to the BC.
Parked next to MATC in the surface lot, then headed to the BC with tickets in hand. Got inside about 6:30 or so and headed to our seats before hitting the bathroom before the show started.
Saving Abel was on first...not bad. I only knew one song, but that never stops me from enjoying a band I don't know. Holly looked around before they dropped the lights and commented to me how empty the arena looked. I replied that she should take a look after Saving Abel was done. With that, the house lights dropped and Saving Abel was on.
After Saving Abel, the roadies came out and set the stage for Seether. Seether I'm much more familiar with as they are a little more established, and they didn't disappoint. They played their new single "Fake It", as well as "Broken", and altogether put up a nice set.
After Seether, more roadies. Holly had went to powder her nose, so I sat with our stuff and people watched, one of my favorite activities. Quite a few good looking ladies, and of course I was with the best looking one ;)
Although...there was....I think a bear that had been shaved. This chick was in her late 40s or early 50s, around 300 pounds, whiter than Casper....and she was wearing black thigh high leather boots and a sheer red nightie, with other red fabric covering her in strategic places. What. The. Hell? I saw her make her way up the stairs from the section below us on the arm of a guy who I assume was her husband/boyfriend/handler/parole agent. As she got up to the lane to head out the concourse, a group of people re-entered the arena and looked at her and expressed a bit of shocked and/or disgust.
Holly made her way back to our seats and I told her about the "woman", and we both began waiting anxiously. Sure enough....her "she" came. Holly's jaw dropped, and a few of us in the area we were seated began to do a running commentary are "her" choice of clothes. I thought maybe it was laundry day, and all she had left was the sheer red nightie. Others though "she" was just plain out of her mind. Then, thankfully, the house lights went out and Nickelback was on!!
Lots of Pyro and Video. Lots of guitars....overall great show. Chad Krueger could have talked a little less and rocked a little more, but they managed to get quite a few songs in over 2 hours.
Here's some pics from my iPhone.
Sunday, March 1, 2009
they say it's your birthday...
Friday was my 33rd birthday. I bought doughnuts to take into work for my customers. I really didn't have any plans for anything special, so Holly and I decided to head to the autoshow and look at cars we can't afford.
Got quite a few pictures which I will post at a later date.
I've felt out of sorts since Friday....just not all together. Not sure why.
Saturday was alot of fun. Holly and I had lunch with friends that she hadn't seen in some time, then we headed off to my basketball game that was at 3:30. My guys played a great game and we won.
Hollly and I headed back to my place to rest for a bit, then off to Bed Bath and Beyond to look at home decor stuff and wedding registry ideas, then off to dinner at Applebee's.
Sunday brought church, then a client call, then basketball practice. I bought pizza for my guys since they've played so hard for me this year and to celebrate my birthday.
On to home to watch my race, which is just about done...then just winding down until bedtime, then back into the week.
Got quite a few pictures which I will post at a later date.
I've felt out of sorts since Friday....just not all together. Not sure why.
Saturday was alot of fun. Holly and I had lunch with friends that she hadn't seen in some time, then we headed off to my basketball game that was at 3:30. My guys played a great game and we won.
Hollly and I headed back to my place to rest for a bit, then off to Bed Bath and Beyond to look at home decor stuff and wedding registry ideas, then off to dinner at Applebee's.
Sunday brought church, then a client call, then basketball practice. I bought pizza for my guys since they've played so hard for me this year and to celebrate my birthday.
On to home to watch my race, which is just about done...then just winding down until bedtime, then back into the week.
Sunday, February 8, 2009
the wait is over.
I have my iPhone.
The number porting process took about 24 hours over all, but all of my stuff is AT&T now.
Holly and I headed to the Apple Store at Mayfair for my 10:30 appointment. When we got there, I stepped up to the Genius Bar and waited for the next available Genius. My Genius' name was Ernie and he took care of me. I went with the 8 gig iPhone, and picked up a pack of screen skins and a car charge with a radio adapter. Ernie went through the process of moving my phone number over from Sprint over to AT&T.
When I had paid for everything, Ernie gave me a quick primer on the features of my iPhone. After that, Holly and I headed back to her house, where I plugged my iPhone into my Powerbook to charge it and also add the apps I had already downloaded in preparation of getting my iPhone.
Holly picked up my phone and started playing with it...when she was done she handed back to me. I go to unlock it and find out she had put a lock on my phone...
I was less than amused.
I made one attempt to unlock my phone, then shot her a look that let her know she needed to fix the problem she had created, which she did.
All day long, Holly kept calling me, only to get the voicemail I had left on my old Sprint phone. Finally, after church today, she tried and my iPhone rang :)
My number is still the same, so give me a call :P
The number porting process took about 24 hours over all, but all of my stuff is AT&T now.
Holly and I headed to the Apple Store at Mayfair for my 10:30 appointment. When we got there, I stepped up to the Genius Bar and waited for the next available Genius. My Genius' name was Ernie and he took care of me. I went with the 8 gig iPhone, and picked up a pack of screen skins and a car charge with a radio adapter. Ernie went through the process of moving my phone number over from Sprint over to AT&T.
When I had paid for everything, Ernie gave me a quick primer on the features of my iPhone. After that, Holly and I headed back to her house, where I plugged my iPhone into my Powerbook to charge it and also add the apps I had already downloaded in preparation of getting my iPhone.
Holly picked up my phone and started playing with it...when she was done she handed back to me. I go to unlock it and find out she had put a lock on my phone...
I was less than amused.
I made one attempt to unlock my phone, then shot her a look that let her know she needed to fix the problem she had created, which she did.
All day long, Holly kept calling me, only to get the voicemail I had left on my old Sprint phone. Finally, after church today, she tried and my iPhone rang :)
My number is still the same, so give me a call :P
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
books
When I was a kid, I used to consume books. I would read read read and then read some more, just because I loved it. I can't recall when that stopped for me, but it did.
I started reading for information more than pleasure, and once I got hooked on the internet, books were a thing of the past.
I found myself reading online, staring at a monitor, scrolling down news articles, then closing the tab and looking for my next information fix.
I was talking about this with Holly, and she strongly encouraged me to read for fun again. As luck would have it, she has all the Harry Potter books, and I had been wanting to read them.
Well, I'm now took books down and well into the third. My goal is to have all seven knocked out before the next movie hits theaters this summer.
I started reading for information more than pleasure, and once I got hooked on the internet, books were a thing of the past.
I found myself reading online, staring at a monitor, scrolling down news articles, then closing the tab and looking for my next information fix.
I was talking about this with Holly, and she strongly encouraged me to read for fun again. As luck would have it, she has all the Harry Potter books, and I had been wanting to read them.
Well, I'm now took books down and well into the third. My goal is to have all seven knocked out before the next movie hits theaters this summer.
Monday, February 2, 2009
4 years
Holly and I celebrated 4 years together this past Friday night. We had made plans to go to Friday's at the Ballpark for dinner and then attend a going away party for a friend after that.
As I was wrapping up my day at work, I was thinking about what to get Holly as a gift. Before Christmas she had mentioned she wouldn't mind an iPod, so on my way home from work, I stopped at Best Buy and bought her a 120 gigabyte iPod classic in silver. I them placed said iPod in my glovebox for later giving.
Get home, freshen up, head over to Holly's to pick her up for dinner. As we make our way up 43rd street through West Milwaukee, I ask her to fetch something for my out of my glovebox. She opens the glovebox and I tell her it's right on top, since there's no light in the glovebox. She pulls the iPod out and I ask her to "unwrap it", as it was still in the bag from the store. She removes the bag and sees she's got an iPod and is slightly stunned by it all.
We park at Friday's and head inside to get a table. There's a bit of a wait, so we get an electric coaster and head to the waiting area to sit while we wait for a table. Holly asks me if I'd like my gift now, or during dinner. Now works. She turns to open her purse and says "I wasn't sure which you wanted, so I hope this helps."
Huh?
She hands me a 4" square card with an iPhone on the front. Still not putting 2 and 2 together, I open the card. Inside is a gift card for roughly half the price of an 8 gig iPhone...
I am stunned...I had no idea she was getting me half an iPhone.
Dinner was great as was the company we met up with afterward.
I have the most amazing woman in the world, an in about 6 months, she'll be my wife.
As I was wrapping up my day at work, I was thinking about what to get Holly as a gift. Before Christmas she had mentioned she wouldn't mind an iPod, so on my way home from work, I stopped at Best Buy and bought her a 120 gigabyte iPod classic in silver. I them placed said iPod in my glovebox for later giving.
Get home, freshen up, head over to Holly's to pick her up for dinner. As we make our way up 43rd street through West Milwaukee, I ask her to fetch something for my out of my glovebox. She opens the glovebox and I tell her it's right on top, since there's no light in the glovebox. She pulls the iPod out and I ask her to "unwrap it", as it was still in the bag from the store. She removes the bag and sees she's got an iPod and is slightly stunned by it all.
We park at Friday's and head inside to get a table. There's a bit of a wait, so we get an electric coaster and head to the waiting area to sit while we wait for a table. Holly asks me if I'd like my gift now, or during dinner. Now works. She turns to open her purse and says "I wasn't sure which you wanted, so I hope this helps."
Huh?
She hands me a 4" square card with an iPhone on the front. Still not putting 2 and 2 together, I open the card. Inside is a gift card for roughly half the price of an 8 gig iPhone...
I am stunned...I had no idea she was getting me half an iPhone.
Dinner was great as was the company we met up with afterward.
I have the most amazing woman in the world, an in about 6 months, she'll be my wife.
Friday, January 23, 2009
end of the week
Interesting day today.
Work actually went by pretty quick, especially for a Friday. With everything slowing down lately, I tend to have gaps of a couple hours between customers and sometimes even phone calls.
The fun began around 3:30pm. Customer comes in to pick up an order and we start talking shop and what not. Then another guy showed up a few minutes later, followed by guys 3 & 4.
Guy 2 was in and out. Guy 1 worked with guy 3, so they were talking about work stuff while I took care of guy 4.
Guy 4 heads out and I start taking care of Guy 3, who has a couple of lists. Get him taken care of, staying over about 40 minutes by the time I pulled his orders and did my end of day stuff. I don't mind actually...Holly has a girls' night and I've got nothing on my agenda.
On the way home, get my oil changed, then get home. Lemon pepper chicken and broccoli for dinner. Listen to the Bucks game while I work on my file server, then I pop in Iron Man.
A little Bailey's to cap off the night and just relaxin'.
Work actually went by pretty quick, especially for a Friday. With everything slowing down lately, I tend to have gaps of a couple hours between customers and sometimes even phone calls.
The fun began around 3:30pm. Customer comes in to pick up an order and we start talking shop and what not. Then another guy showed up a few minutes later, followed by guys 3 & 4.
Guy 2 was in and out. Guy 1 worked with guy 3, so they were talking about work stuff while I took care of guy 4.
Guy 4 heads out and I start taking care of Guy 3, who has a couple of lists. Get him taken care of, staying over about 40 minutes by the time I pulled his orders and did my end of day stuff. I don't mind actually...Holly has a girls' night and I've got nothing on my agenda.
On the way home, get my oil changed, then get home. Lemon pepper chicken and broccoli for dinner. Listen to the Bucks game while I work on my file server, then I pop in Iron Man.
A little Bailey's to cap off the night and just relaxin'.
Friday, January 16, 2009
grace vs. tolerance
I've been thinking alot lately about the difference between grace and tolerance.
To tolerate someone, to me at least, sound like you are "putting up with them," as though you merely deal with someone (or the trait the bugs you) as a nuisance.
Tolerant adv 1: inclined to tolerate ; especially : marked by forbearance or endurance <tolerant parents> tolerant of religious differences>2: exhibiting tolerance (as for a drug or an environmental factor)
Grace, on the other hand, is not merely "putting up with someone" but loving someone in spite of them self, just as God loves us.
Grace noun 1 a: unmerited divine assistance given humans for their regeneration or sanctification b: a virtue coming from God c: a state of sanctification enjoyed through divine grace 2 a: approval , favorgraces> barchaic : mercy , pardon c: a special favor : privilege grace, shall rule his heritage — Rudyard Kipling> d: disposition to or an act or instance of kindness, courtesy, or clemency e: a temporary exemption : reprieve
Unmerited, that's how grace is given, for no other reason to BE GIVEN.
Certain humanist groups feels they should be tolerated by those who disagree with them...they demand merit.
We, who have no merit, are given grace by the One who loves us. Tolerance is a cheap imitation of grace and will never take the place of grace.
To tolerate someone, to me at least, sound like you are "putting up with them," as though you merely deal with someone (or the trait the bugs you) as a nuisance.
Tolerant adv 1: inclined to tolerate ; especially : marked by forbearance or endurance <tolerant parents> tolerant of religious differences>2: exhibiting tolerance (as for a drug or an environmental factor)
Grace, on the other hand, is not merely "putting up with someone" but loving someone in spite of them self, just as God loves us.
Grace noun 1 a: unmerited divine assistance given humans for their regeneration or sanctification b: a virtue coming from God c: a state of sanctification enjoyed through divine grace 2 a: approval , favor
Unmerited, that's how grace is given, for no other reason to BE GIVEN.
Certain humanist groups feels they should be tolerated by those who disagree with them...they demand merit.
We, who have no merit, are given grace by the One who loves us. Tolerance is a cheap imitation of grace and will never take the place of grace.
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Batton down the hatches!!
OK, so Wisconsin is due to get 6-12 inches of snow in what could be a pretty solid winter storm.
so what's the problem?
Nothing that I see, I mean, I live in Wisconsin and I expect snow in the wintertime. That means I need to make some adjustments to how I do things.
Snow makes travel interesting, so I add time to get to my destination. I start my car and give it a few minutes to warm up, not so much for me, but so that the oil has a chance to get out of the pan and lubricate my engine before I get up to speed.
I'm aware that traction isn't optimal, so I add extra distance between myself and the vehicle in front of me, watching my mirror and hoping the guy behind me is doing the same.
I'm aware that it's cold out, so I dress accordingly: heavy coat, gloves, hat if necessary, and boots. I keep a change of clothes at work in case I somehow fall and get dirty or wet.
I turn my headlights on whenever I'm using my wipers. I flash my lights at those who don't. I tend to have a problem seeing gray cars at twilight while there's a light snow falling; they may as well have a Romulan cloaking device on them.
I don't freak out when I hear that there's a "large" amount of snow coming, no matter what the weatherman/woman is telling me. I don't run to the store to stock up on supplies because I don't need to horde anything; I have enough in my cupboards to sustain me the 24-48 hours it may be in the event of a snowpocalypse.
I enjoy the snow; I love the quietness, even in the big city, of a scene wrapped in freshly fallen snow.
so what's the problem?
Nothing that I see, I mean, I live in Wisconsin and I expect snow in the wintertime. That means I need to make some adjustments to how I do things.
Snow makes travel interesting, so I add time to get to my destination. I start my car and give it a few minutes to warm up, not so much for me, but so that the oil has a chance to get out of the pan and lubricate my engine before I get up to speed.
I'm aware that traction isn't optimal, so I add extra distance between myself and the vehicle in front of me, watching my mirror and hoping the guy behind me is doing the same.
I'm aware that it's cold out, so I dress accordingly: heavy coat, gloves, hat if necessary, and boots. I keep a change of clothes at work in case I somehow fall and get dirty or wet.
I turn my headlights on whenever I'm using my wipers. I flash my lights at those who don't. I tend to have a problem seeing gray cars at twilight while there's a light snow falling; they may as well have a Romulan cloaking device on them.
I don't freak out when I hear that there's a "large" amount of snow coming, no matter what the weatherman/woman is telling me. I don't run to the store to stock up on supplies because I don't need to horde anything; I have enough in my cupboards to sustain me the 24-48 hours it may be in the event of a snowpocalypse.
I enjoy the snow; I love the quietness, even in the big city, of a scene wrapped in freshly fallen snow.
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Monday, December 15, 2008
new picture of me
When I mentioned I was growing a beard, one of my followers asked if I would post a pic.
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
yeah, it's wintertime
well, we have some snow and cold, so I'd say winter is here.
Work moves on: some guys are busy, but most are slower this time of year. Not a big surprise to me, since my dad was a carpenter for several years and was often laid off in the winter.
I'm growing a beard. I think Holly likes it, but I'll ask her to be sure. Probably just a winter thing, but I've given it about three weeks so far, only shaving my neck to trim it up. I think it's coming in pretty good and it doesn't itch so much anymore. I'll post a picture in another week or so.
Christmas plans have been mostly made, so more travel is in order.
Rod Blagojevich, Governor of Illinois, was charged yesterday with a couple counts of corruption for trying shake some people in non-government positions down. Couldn't have happened to a nicer guy.
Work moves on: some guys are busy, but most are slower this time of year. Not a big surprise to me, since my dad was a carpenter for several years and was often laid off in the winter.
I'm growing a beard. I think Holly likes it, but I'll ask her to be sure. Probably just a winter thing, but I've given it about three weeks so far, only shaving my neck to trim it up. I think it's coming in pretty good and it doesn't itch so much anymore. I'll post a picture in another week or so.
Christmas plans have been mostly made, so more travel is in order.
Rod Blagojevich, Governor of Illinois, was charged yesterday with a couple counts of corruption for trying shake some people in non-government positions down. Couldn't have happened to a nicer guy.
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Youtube virus outbreak
Apparently, there's a virus going around that is spread through Youtube videos, which I've embedded on my site in the past.
Please, update both your antivirus software AND Windows.
Download this program to clean out your temporary files, which is where this virus lurks.
Any questions, drop me a line.
Please, update both your antivirus software AND Windows.
Download this program to clean out your temporary files, which is where this virus lurks.
Any questions, drop me a line.
Monday, December 1, 2008
of Turkey and White Death
Short Holiday weekend.
Holly had to work Friday, so we spent Thursday with her family at her aunt and uncle's house. Lots of food and football and family.
Friday I had a computer client, then that evening was a going away party for a friend of mine.
Saturday Holly and I headed south to my mom's house around 8. We rolled in around noon, they headed over to my grandparents' house to catch up with them.
Back to Mom's house to veg out and get ready for dinner. Mom had already decided she wasn't cooking so we ordered pizza, which was fine with me. My sister and family was also there, so we got to see my nieces and nephew.
After dinner, we just sat and talked and hung out. Holly got to play with my nephew's new Nerf chain gun. Twenty five rounds of Nerf goodness can be fire from the thing.
At the end of the night, Holly and I made our way over to my other grandparents' house to stay the night. My sister and the kids were staying at Mom's, and we didn't want to overcrowd the house.
Chatted with my grandparents for an hour or so, then headed to bed. Up in the morning to see the glorious snow already falling. My stepmom called and said she and Dad wouldn't be over due to the weather. Problem is, she was bring the bulk of the food for that day. Grandma rolled out plan B and we had plenty to eat between the pork roast, the ham and the two casseroles my sister had prepared.
Holly and I started our return north at halftime of the Packer game. The weather wasn't too bad, just some limited visibility. The only real problem we had was traffic around Rockford, and it took us 90 minutes to go 30 miles.
The only real weather problem was about 30 miles out of Milwaukee on I-43, where the snow was sticking to the freeway.
I dropped Holly off at home, sat for a bit, then headed to the store to get fixin's for lunch this week. Watched some of the Bears-Vikings game, then headed to bed.
Short weekend, but sometimes, that's all you get.
Holly had to work Friday, so we spent Thursday with her family at her aunt and uncle's house. Lots of food and football and family.
Friday I had a computer client, then that evening was a going away party for a friend of mine.
Saturday Holly and I headed south to my mom's house around 8. We rolled in around noon, they headed over to my grandparents' house to catch up with them.
Back to Mom's house to veg out and get ready for dinner. Mom had already decided she wasn't cooking so we ordered pizza, which was fine with me. My sister and family was also there, so we got to see my nieces and nephew.
After dinner, we just sat and talked and hung out. Holly got to play with my nephew's new Nerf chain gun. Twenty five rounds of Nerf goodness can be fire from the thing.
At the end of the night, Holly and I made our way over to my other grandparents' house to stay the night. My sister and the kids were staying at Mom's, and we didn't want to overcrowd the house.
Chatted with my grandparents for an hour or so, then headed to bed. Up in the morning to see the glorious snow already falling. My stepmom called and said she and Dad wouldn't be over due to the weather. Problem is, she was bring the bulk of the food for that day. Grandma rolled out plan B and we had plenty to eat between the pork roast, the ham and the two casseroles my sister had prepared.
Holly and I started our return north at halftime of the Packer game. The weather wasn't too bad, just some limited visibility. The only real problem we had was traffic around Rockford, and it took us 90 minutes to go 30 miles.
The only real weather problem was about 30 miles out of Milwaukee on I-43, where the snow was sticking to the freeway.
I dropped Holly off at home, sat for a bit, then headed to the store to get fixin's for lunch this week. Watched some of the Bears-Vikings game, then headed to bed.
Short weekend, but sometimes, that's all you get.
Sunday, November 23, 2008
Vegetable beef stew
1# Stew meat (I cheated and bought chop suey meat so I didn't have to cut it down)
1 can each:
Sliced carrots
Sliced potatos
Whole kernel corn
Peas
1 47 oz can Tomato Juice.
Brown stew meat, seasoning to taste (I used Lawry's seasoned salt)
Pour Tomato Juice into crock pot
Add vegetables
When meat is browned, drain and add to crock pot.
Set timer to desired time, stirring occasionally.
When done, dish out and eat!
This is one of my favorites from when I was a kid.
1 can each:
Sliced carrots
Sliced potatos
Whole kernel corn
Peas
1 47 oz can Tomato Juice.
Brown stew meat, seasoning to taste (I used Lawry's seasoned salt)
Pour Tomato Juice into crock pot
Add vegetables
When meat is browned, drain and add to crock pot.
Set timer to desired time, stirring occasionally.
When done, dish out and eat!
This is one of my favorites from when I was a kid.
Monday, November 17, 2008
The White Death comes for us all.
OK people...we live in Wisconsin....that white stuff from the sky...that's called SNOW. When you see SNOW, SLOW DOWN!!!
You're welcome.
You're welcome.
Sunday, November 16, 2008
Wedding plans
As of right now, Holly and I have a guest list assembled. We're having the wedding at the church we go to, and doing the reception in two parts: cake and punch after the ceremony, and then dinner with family and the bridal party.
Not much else to report at this time. We're looking for a hall for the family dinner, and a photographer as well. We do have a date picked, August 1, 2009.
We're trying to keep costs down, so we're going to be creative along the way. I don't think we've declared a budget officially, but I have an idea of how much we can comfortably afford.
Not much else to report at this time. We're looking for a hall for the family dinner, and a photographer as well. We do have a date picked, August 1, 2009.
We're trying to keep costs down, so we're going to be creative along the way. I don't think we've declared a budget officially, but I have an idea of how much we can comfortably afford.
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
transitioning to a Mac
Yes, I've had a Mac before, but now I'm making the transition to a Mac as my day to day system.
Last Tuesday, my dell laptop died on me, or at least, started to. I did all the usual hardware troubleshooting and determined that the motherboard was failing. Start poking around on Craigslist here in Milwaukee and find a few good laptops for around $400. Spied a couple of Apple Powerbooks in that price range and started playing email tag.
I scored a 12" powerbook, 1.5 ghz for $415 with all the original discs and literature. I like the size and it's loaded out...dvd burner, bluetooth, etc.
I love the size to horsepower ratio. In a PC notebook, you generally don't get this kind of performance in a small notebook.
For the most part, the change wasn't too hard, as I've got Mac experience. My biggest thing is crossover with my Vista Media Center. If I want to drag a show I've recorded off of it and play it on my Powerbook, can I? For the most part, not yet. I'll keep looking for a solution.
I'm putting a call out to my current Mac-owning friends....what apps are you using?
Last Tuesday, my dell laptop died on me, or at least, started to. I did all the usual hardware troubleshooting and determined that the motherboard was failing. Start poking around on Craigslist here in Milwaukee and find a few good laptops for around $400. Spied a couple of Apple Powerbooks in that price range and started playing email tag.
I scored a 12" powerbook, 1.5 ghz for $415 with all the original discs and literature. I like the size and it's loaded out...dvd burner, bluetooth, etc.
I love the size to horsepower ratio. In a PC notebook, you generally don't get this kind of performance in a small notebook.
For the most part, the change wasn't too hard, as I've got Mac experience. My biggest thing is crossover with my Vista Media Center. If I want to drag a show I've recorded off of it and play it on my Powerbook, can I? For the most part, not yet. I'll keep looking for a solution.
I'm putting a call out to my current Mac-owning friends....what apps are you using?
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
My Fellow Americans
Make sure you go vote today...no matter who you vote for, exercise your civic duty.
Sunday, October 26, 2008
Three Bean Chili
1 lb ground beef
1 47oz. can tomato juice
1 can chili beans
1 can pinto beans
1 can kidney beans
1 pack chili seasoning
chili powder (optional)
Brown ground beef, add chili seasoning mix, add chili powder if desired.
Pour tomato juice in crock pot, add beans.
Add seasoned beef to crock pot, cover, set time.
When done, dish out or pout into containers for later.
1 47oz. can tomato juice
1 can chili beans
1 can pinto beans
1 can kidney beans
1 pack chili seasoning
chili powder (optional)
Brown ground beef, add chili seasoning mix, add chili powder if desired.
Pour tomato juice in crock pot, add beans.
Add seasoned beef to crock pot, cover, set time.
When done, dish out or pout into containers for later.
Saturday, October 25, 2008
home on a Saturday night
Sitting at home on a Saturday night. Holly's sick, so I stopped over after taking care of a client. In the end I decided it was better to let her rest and I came home.
We've started the wedding plans, mostly the guest list. Who to invite, not to invite, who will we invite that won't show up.....barrels of monkeys.
Not much else going on. Watching the World Series and I'll be over at Holly's folks tomorrow watching the race since there's no Packer football.
We've started the wedding plans, mostly the guest list. Who to invite, not to invite, who will we invite that won't show up.....barrels of monkeys.
Not much else going on. Watching the World Series and I'll be over at Holly's folks tomorrow watching the race since there's no Packer football.
Sunday, October 12, 2008
How Chad met Holly
January 29th, 2005
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Chad was invited to a dance hosted by Wisconsin Lutheran College taking place at the Milwaukee Art Museum by a friend, Emily, who attended WLC. He was leery about going, as he was well beyond college age. Another friend, Dawn, pleaded with him to go, and to bring his roommate Ben so she'd have someone at the dance she knew.
Holly also attended WLC, and was a friend of Emily's, and was going to the dance.
Dinner plans were made for Genesis on South Highway 100, but Genesis was full and had a long wait, so dinner shifted to Applebee's on Highway 100, near the Home Depot.
Emily had arranged for Dawn and Holly to have rent-a-dates, but the boys were more interested in drinking than the girls.
When it came time to sit down at the restaurant, Holly, Emily, another friend, her fiance and the rent-a-dates were seated at one table, while Chad, Ben and Dawn were seated across the aisle. This table was deemed "The Leper Table" by Chad.
Shortly after dinner was served, Chad quietly asked Dawn if the Three (Chad, roommate and Dawn) could disappear and not be noticed. Dawn said no, so the Three were committed to the dance.
Holly, Emily and Dawn got into Holly's car, and Chad and Ben got into the Ben's car; the race was on. There was spirited driving from the restaurant to the parking deck next to the Art Museum.
Once inside the dance, the group moved onto the dance floor. Soon, however, the songs became slower, and Chad looked for one of the girls to dance with. Holly was nowhere to be found, and it seemed Emily and Dawn weren't interested in dancing with Chad.
Chad took a lap through the museum to wonder how long this hell would last. Only part of the museum was open, so the lap didn't last long. He made his way back to the party and proceeded to lean against a support beam and sulk.
Holly, wearing a magnificent red dress, approached Chad and asked "What's your deal?" (No...really, she did). Chad replied that he wasn't having any fun. Holly answered that they'd have to change that.
At some point, the group ended up on the dance floor together again. The music was fast and everyone was having some fun. Chad knew he had to take a chance; he took Holly's hand and pulled her to him so they were dancing close together.
When the music slowed again, Holly went to find a seat and catch her breath. Chad went to grab Holly something to drink. She thanked him and downed the soda.
Holly was still warm, so Chad suggested stepping outside to cool off. Holly had kicked off her shoes early in the evening, so Chad went to fetch them for her. They got their coats, and took the elevator up to the catwalk that leads across Lake Drive.
They walked across the catwalk, then past the War Memorial, and toward Veterans Park. Holly asked Chad questions about himself, and Chad was more than happy to answer and tell stories as they strolled down the lakefront.
At some pointed they turned to head back to the dance to rejoin their friends. As they crossed the catwalk, Chad knew that he had to make a move. As they approached the elevator, he asked Holly for her number. Holly smiled and gladly gave Chad her number.
As they rode down the elevator, they were spotted by their friends. Emily rushed for the elevator door, eyes wide, wondering why Holly no longer had lipstick on. Chad got looks from both Dawn and Ben, but didn't care. The group split up to head home.
Dawn and Emily already had plans to come over to Chad and Ben's, while Holly had to head home to be up for church in the morning.
When Chad got home, he called Holly and left her a voicemail stating that he had a great time in spite of himself, and was looking forward to seeing her again.
When Dawn and Emily arrived at the boy's place, they began interrogating Chad, as Holly seemed to be quite enamored with Chad on the drive home. Chad asked the girls if they had invited Holly to Bible study at his church Sunday night. They replied that they had, but Holly wanted a more personal invite from Chad. Chad, in his true bold self, then pulled out his cell phone and called Holly a second time so he could invite her to Bible study.
This was the beginning of something magical to come.
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Chad was invited to a dance hosted by Wisconsin Lutheran College taking place at the Milwaukee Art Museum by a friend, Emily, who attended WLC. He was leery about going, as he was well beyond college age. Another friend, Dawn, pleaded with him to go, and to bring his roommate Ben so she'd have someone at the dance she knew.
Holly also attended WLC, and was a friend of Emily's, and was going to the dance.
Dinner plans were made for Genesis on South Highway 100, but Genesis was full and had a long wait, so dinner shifted to Applebee's on Highway 100, near the Home Depot.
Emily had arranged for Dawn and Holly to have rent-a-dates, but the boys were more interested in drinking than the girls.
When it came time to sit down at the restaurant, Holly, Emily, another friend, her fiance and the rent-a-dates were seated at one table, while Chad, Ben and Dawn were seated across the aisle. This table was deemed "The Leper Table" by Chad.
Shortly after dinner was served, Chad quietly asked Dawn if the Three (Chad, roommate and Dawn) could disappear and not be noticed. Dawn said no, so the Three were committed to the dance.
Holly, Emily and Dawn got into Holly's car, and Chad and Ben got into the Ben's car; the race was on. There was spirited driving from the restaurant to the parking deck next to the Art Museum.
Once inside the dance, the group moved onto the dance floor. Soon, however, the songs became slower, and Chad looked for one of the girls to dance with. Holly was nowhere to be found, and it seemed Emily and Dawn weren't interested in dancing with Chad.
Chad took a lap through the museum to wonder how long this hell would last. Only part of the museum was open, so the lap didn't last long. He made his way back to the party and proceeded to lean against a support beam and sulk.
Holly, wearing a magnificent red dress, approached Chad and asked "What's your deal?" (No...really, she did). Chad replied that he wasn't having any fun. Holly answered that they'd have to change that.
At some point, the group ended up on the dance floor together again. The music was fast and everyone was having some fun. Chad knew he had to take a chance; he took Holly's hand and pulled her to him so they were dancing close together.
When the music slowed again, Holly went to find a seat and catch her breath. Chad went to grab Holly something to drink. She thanked him and downed the soda.
Holly was still warm, so Chad suggested stepping outside to cool off. Holly had kicked off her shoes early in the evening, so Chad went to fetch them for her. They got their coats, and took the elevator up to the catwalk that leads across Lake Drive.
They walked across the catwalk, then past the War Memorial, and toward Veterans Park. Holly asked Chad questions about himself, and Chad was more than happy to answer and tell stories as they strolled down the lakefront.
At some pointed they turned to head back to the dance to rejoin their friends. As they crossed the catwalk, Chad knew that he had to make a move. As they approached the elevator, he asked Holly for her number. Holly smiled and gladly gave Chad her number.
As they rode down the elevator, they were spotted by their friends. Emily rushed for the elevator door, eyes wide, wondering why Holly no longer had lipstick on. Chad got looks from both Dawn and Ben, but didn't care. The group split up to head home.
Dawn and Emily already had plans to come over to Chad and Ben's, while Holly had to head home to be up for church in the morning.
When Chad got home, he called Holly and left her a voicemail stating that he had a great time in spite of himself, and was looking forward to seeing her again.
When Dawn and Emily arrived at the boy's place, they began interrogating Chad, as Holly seemed to be quite enamored with Chad on the drive home. Chad asked the girls if they had invited Holly to Bible study at his church Sunday night. They replied that they had, but Holly wanted a more personal invite from Chad. Chad, in his true bold self, then pulled out his cell phone and called Holly a second time so he could invite her to Bible study.
This was the beginning of something magical to come.
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
surprise!!
A couple weeks ago, Holly informs me that she has a surprise for me on September 4th, and to make sure I don't schedule anything. That's a Thursday, which is usually Dinner and Laundry. My directions are simple...come over to her place as soon as possible after work.
Wouldn't you know, Thursday was busy at the close of business, so I get out of work later than usual. It was raining, so I really couldn't speed with confidence.
We had dinner with her folks before heading out. As we drive, I start to piece together where I think were going, but don't say anything about it, just carrying on conversation.
Holly had gotten tickets to the Brewers game that night. Why? I had been wanting to go to a game, but didn't want to spend the money I've been saving for her ring. Thursday night was her treat. We sat in the bleachers, ate nachos and watched baseball.
I have the most amazing woman on the planet for a girlfriend.
'nuff said.
Wouldn't you know, Thursday was busy at the close of business, so I get out of work later than usual. It was raining, so I really couldn't speed with confidence.
We had dinner with her folks before heading out. As we drive, I start to piece together where I think were going, but don't say anything about it, just carrying on conversation.
Holly had gotten tickets to the Brewers game that night. Why? I had been wanting to go to a game, but didn't want to spend the money I've been saving for her ring. Thursday night was her treat. We sat in the bleachers, ate nachos and watched baseball.
I have the most amazing woman on the planet for a girlfriend.
'nuff said.
Thursday, September 4, 2008
what really matters
This has been a rather trying week for me. I was sick through the holiday weekend, and that threw a wrench in alot of plans.
Holly and I were going to head down to her sister's place for the weekend to hang out, and on the way down, stop by the jewelry store and pick up her engagement ring.
I know, tradition says that I'm supposed to buy it without her knowing, so that I can surprise her with it.
you know what Tradition...up yours.
When we found The Ring back in March, I knew what I was up against. I now had a price tag as my goal. The main thing I have going against me is my credit....it is, shall we say, less than exemplary. Holly, however, had credit enough, but not enough job to back it up. So, with my job and her credit, we can do this.
Well, since I couldn't go along Saturday, The Ring was put on hold. I talked with the sales rep at the store, and I had to at least put something down so that The Ring didn't disappear.
Tuesday, I get off work at 4:30, run to a local branch of my bank, take out some funds, and head down to Schaumburg, IL. I'm there before 7, make my down payment to put The Ring, then head back to Milwaukee.
Holly had called me during the day, and asked if I would find her a laptop for school, so I had a couple of leads I wanted to discuss with her and her folks. I was back in Milwaukee at 8:45pm, and we talked about what her system needs were, and I had a lead on a great laptop for that. Holly and I were talking and the subject of The Ring, and how soon to acquire it. I explained my plan, and to be honest, she wasn't thrilled with what I had in mind. The conversation ended quickly, as she had to get back to her homework, and I was tired and needed to head home.
I was upset. I had let Holly down, again; she was upset with me, that I could see; I was mad at myself for not having better discipline with my money. She called me a little later on and I didn't answer, so she shot me a text basically saying "You're mad at me, aren't you" I replied that I was mad, I just wasn't sure at who.
I had a hard time sleeping Tuesday night. Holly and I were planning to meet someone about a laptop, and I wasn't about to let hurt feelings get in the way. Holly was still upset as well.
The plan was to meet up with the laptop guy at 6:30 Wednesday night, so I was going to pick Holly up at 6 to go meet the guy. When I got there, I took her in my arms and told her that I loved her, and that my love for her hadn't wavered in spite of what had been said. I mean that. I do some pretty stupid stuff, and she stands by my side, helping me up off the ground, so why wouldn't I love her?
We get her the laptop, and I get it all set up. Love covers a multitude of sins, and when I left for home last night, we'd moved on past Tuesday night's conversation.
Bottom line: I love Holly, and would go to the ends of the earth for her. That's what really matters to me.
Holly and I were going to head down to her sister's place for the weekend to hang out, and on the way down, stop by the jewelry store and pick up her engagement ring.
I know, tradition says that I'm supposed to buy it without her knowing, so that I can surprise her with it.
you know what Tradition...up yours.
When we found The Ring back in March, I knew what I was up against. I now had a price tag as my goal. The main thing I have going against me is my credit....it is, shall we say, less than exemplary. Holly, however, had credit enough, but not enough job to back it up. So, with my job and her credit, we can do this.
Well, since I couldn't go along Saturday, The Ring was put on hold. I talked with the sales rep at the store, and I had to at least put something down so that The Ring didn't disappear.
Tuesday, I get off work at 4:30, run to a local branch of my bank, take out some funds, and head down to Schaumburg, IL. I'm there before 7, make my down payment to put The Ring, then head back to Milwaukee.
Holly had called me during the day, and asked if I would find her a laptop for school, so I had a couple of leads I wanted to discuss with her and her folks. I was back in Milwaukee at 8:45pm, and we talked about what her system needs were, and I had a lead on a great laptop for that. Holly and I were talking and the subject of The Ring, and how soon to acquire it. I explained my plan, and to be honest, she wasn't thrilled with what I had in mind. The conversation ended quickly, as she had to get back to her homework, and I was tired and needed to head home.
I was upset. I had let Holly down, again; she was upset with me, that I could see; I was mad at myself for not having better discipline with my money. She called me a little later on and I didn't answer, so she shot me a text basically saying "You're mad at me, aren't you" I replied that I was mad, I just wasn't sure at who.
I had a hard time sleeping Tuesday night. Holly and I were planning to meet someone about a laptop, and I wasn't about to let hurt feelings get in the way. Holly was still upset as well.
The plan was to meet up with the laptop guy at 6:30 Wednesday night, so I was going to pick Holly up at 6 to go meet the guy. When I got there, I took her in my arms and told her that I loved her, and that my love for her hadn't wavered in spite of what had been said. I mean that. I do some pretty stupid stuff, and she stands by my side, helping me up off the ground, so why wouldn't I love her?
We get her the laptop, and I get it all set up. Love covers a multitude of sins, and when I left for home last night, we'd moved on past Tuesday night's conversation.
Bottom line: I love Holly, and would go to the ends of the earth for her. That's what really matters to me.
Monday, September 1, 2008
final thoughts from the weekend
Well, I survived.
This limited diet crap is for the birds.
I woke up this morning and felt great, but knew I shouldn't push my luck, so I kept to the diet.
To torture myself, I grilled at a friend's party. I was in charge of the hot dogs and brats. How's that for willpower? Making sure the meat was taken care without partaking....yeah..that sucked.
Holly has commanded that I take tomorrow easy, so I will.
I'm dying for a cheeseburger...or biscuits and gravy....
This limited diet crap is for the birds.
I woke up this morning and felt great, but knew I shouldn't push my luck, so I kept to the diet.
To torture myself, I grilled at a friend's party. I was in charge of the hot dogs and brats. How's that for willpower? Making sure the meat was taken care without partaking....yeah..that sucked.
Holly has commanded that I take tomorrow easy, so I will.
I'm dying for a cheeseburger...or biscuits and gravy....
Sunday, August 31, 2008
an update
Have I ever mentioned how much I hate being alone?
I really do.
I managed to take some food today and it stayed down, then went for a walk around the block, just to get out of my apartment for a little bit.
Then I decided to go farther...I got in my car and went for a ride. I promised myself that if at anytime the lightheadedness returned that I would come straight home.
I took a leisurely cruise down Bluemound til it merged with Wisconsin, then the zigzag by the War Memorial Museum down to the lakefront, where the Big Stage was being taken down.
Up the lakefront to Lake Park, then back down, to Wisconsin, Bluemound and then finally home.
It felt good to get out. I wanted to see the Harley's on Friday night, but didn't get a chance. There are still quite a few folks cruising around at the end of the weekend. Yes, most have gone home, but some are still here, taking in the last bits of the celebration.
I really do.
I managed to take some food today and it stayed down, then went for a walk around the block, just to get out of my apartment for a little bit.
Then I decided to go farther...I got in my car and went for a ride. I promised myself that if at anytime the lightheadedness returned that I would come straight home.
I took a leisurely cruise down Bluemound til it merged with Wisconsin, then the zigzag by the War Memorial Museum down to the lakefront, where the Big Stage was being taken down.
Up the lakefront to Lake Park, then back down, to Wisconsin, Bluemound and then finally home.
It felt good to get out. I wanted to see the Harley's on Friday night, but didn't get a chance. There are still quite a few folks cruising around at the end of the weekend. Yes, most have gone home, but some are still here, taking in the last bits of the celebration.
bleah
so, my weekend got shot to hell Thursday night. It appears that I have viral gastritis...how I got it I have no idea.
I was at Holly's folk's house for the usual Thursday night, dinner and laundry and everything was going as usual. During the Packer game, I went to use the bathroom, and while in process, I had to brace myself, as I felt lightheaded.
I made it back to the couch and laid down. I felt disoriented. When my laundry was done, I collected it and got ready to head home.
At some point in the night, I woke up and knew I had to get to the bathroom. Nothing says fun at 3 am like hovering over the toilet.
At 6am I called into work, unable to stand for more than a minute or two. When I woke back up, I scheduled an appointment with my doctor, since I knew this was something I wanted checked out.
Basically, viral gastriris. I'm limited to a diet of bananas, rice, apple sauce, and toast, or BRAT. No spicy food, no greasy food, no dairy.
I spent Friday night at Holly's and slept rather well. After I woke up, the dizzyness returned. I decided that Holly should at least have some fun this weekend, so I asked her to take me back to my place so she could go down to her sister's as we had planned.
I spent Saturday baseball on Fox, college football on ABC and the Brewers game on a local station.
Around 10pm, I hovered again.
I slept ok through the night....waking around 3 am for a time, and then was up around 8:30.
I'm attempting to eat a fried egg...cooked all the way thru, cuz I'm craving solid food.
The Brewers game is on the radio in a few minutes, and the race is on tonight....we'll see what happens I guess....
I was at Holly's folk's house for the usual Thursday night, dinner and laundry and everything was going as usual. During the Packer game, I went to use the bathroom, and while in process, I had to brace myself, as I felt lightheaded.
I made it back to the couch and laid down. I felt disoriented. When my laundry was done, I collected it and got ready to head home.
At some point in the night, I woke up and knew I had to get to the bathroom. Nothing says fun at 3 am like hovering over the toilet.
At 6am I called into work, unable to stand for more than a minute or two. When I woke back up, I scheduled an appointment with my doctor, since I knew this was something I wanted checked out.
Basically, viral gastriris. I'm limited to a diet of bananas, rice, apple sauce, and toast, or BRAT. No spicy food, no greasy food, no dairy.
I spent Friday night at Holly's and slept rather well. After I woke up, the dizzyness returned. I decided that Holly should at least have some fun this weekend, so I asked her to take me back to my place so she could go down to her sister's as we had planned.
I spent Saturday baseball on Fox, college football on ABC and the Brewers game on a local station.
Around 10pm, I hovered again.
I slept ok through the night....waking around 3 am for a time, and then was up around 8:30.
I'm attempting to eat a fried egg...cooked all the way thru, cuz I'm craving solid food.
The Brewers game is on the radio in a few minutes, and the race is on tonight....we'll see what happens I guess....
Monday, August 25, 2008
Spent a fun day yesterday with Holly doing nothing but hanging out together. Took a walk at Lake Park, drove down to the airport and watched planes take off and land, made an ice cream run.
Now, it's back to work, then off for the Labor Day weekend to Illinois. That's right, I'm getting out of town for the 105th...well, Friday I'll take it in.
Now, it's back to work, then off for the Labor Day weekend to Illinois. That's right, I'm getting out of town for the 105th...well, Friday I'll take it in.
Sunday, August 17, 2008
867-5309
I'm thinking about changing cell phone providers when my current contract is up in February.
I'm tempted to go with AT&T, as they have some kind of magical phone.
I could stay with Sprint, and either go with their version of the magical phone, or something slightly less magical.
I'm looking for something with better input for calendar and text....basically, a fully keyboard. My Razr doesn't cut it for more than quick texts.
Going to AT&T would make it easier to add Holly's phone to a family plan as needed.
Thoughts?
I'm tempted to go with AT&T, as they have some kind of magical phone.
I could stay with Sprint, and either go with their version of the magical phone, or something slightly less magical.
I'm looking for something with better input for calendar and text....basically, a fully keyboard. My Razr doesn't cut it for more than quick texts.
Going to AT&T would make it easier to add Holly's phone to a family plan as needed.
Thoughts?
everybody's Irish
So, for a little while on Sunday, everybody on the Summerfest grounds was Irish. This weekend was Irish Fest. Lots of green, lots of Guiness, and lots of fun.
Holly tends to buy me something very cool when we go; a couple of years ago it was an NYPD tribute jersey that was worn by an Irish football team. This year it was the Irish national team's football jersey.
Saturday, Holly and I attended a wedding of a good friend of ours. Makes for a long day when the wedding is at 1, and the reception is at 5. I like the fast that Milwaukee isn't so big that we couldn't come back to my place between rounds and relax for a bit.
Holly tends to buy me something very cool when we go; a couple of years ago it was an NYPD tribute jersey that was worn by an Irish football team. This year it was the Irish national team's football jersey.
Saturday, Holly and I attended a wedding of a good friend of ours. Makes for a long day when the wedding is at 1, and the reception is at 5. I like the fast that Milwaukee isn't so big that we couldn't come back to my place between rounds and relax for a bit.
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
priceless
Dinner at Saz's: $42
Gas to drive from Milwaukee to Green Bay and back: $30
Ice cream in Green Bay: $10
Spending a Saturday night in Green Bay just because we could: PRICELESS
Gas to drive from Milwaukee to Green Bay and back: $30
Ice cream in Green Bay: $10
Spending a Saturday night in Green Bay just because we could: PRICELESS
Saturday, August 2, 2008
an absolutely fabulous day
I'm sitting outside on the patio at Holly's folks's house, enjoying the awesome weather. The sun is out, there's a nice breeze, and there's a squirrell under the bird feeder feasting on leftovers. Holly and I went down to Whitnall park and picniced today, then returned home to visit with her parents.
It's days like this that refresh my soul and allow to me to stand (or sit) in the wonder of God and His creation.
It's days like this that refresh my soul and allow to me to stand (or sit) in the wonder of God and His creation.
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
on moving...
So I've decided to stay where I am.
I didn't feel that the modest financial gain would benefit me being so far from my friends and all that I do.
As a friend commented, all it takes is one or two unplanned trips to Milwaukee to undo everything.
I slept amazingly well last night, which tells me that I made the right call. I wasn't so anxious about my decision that I tossed and turned as I had in previous nights.
Now, who has a broken computer for me to fix? ;)
I didn't feel that the modest financial gain would benefit me being so far from my friends and all that I do.
As a friend commented, all it takes is one or two unplanned trips to Milwaukee to undo everything.
I slept amazingly well last night, which tells me that I made the right call. I wasn't so anxious about my decision that I tossed and turned as I had in previous nights.
Now, who has a broken computer for me to fix? ;)
Monday, July 21, 2008
thoughts from Romans 1:1-17
Some thoughts as I read thru Romans 1 tonight. My thoughts will be in bold, emphasis in italics in the passage is mine.
Romans 1
1Paul, a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle and set apart for the gospel of God— 2the gospel he promised beforehand through his prophets in the Holy Scriptures 3regarding his Son, who as to his human nature was a descendant of David, 4and who through the Spirit[a] of holiness was declared with power to be the Son of God[b] by his resurrection from the dead: Jesus Christ our Lord. 5Through him and for his name's sake, we received grace and apostleship to call people from among all the Gentiles to the obedience that comes from faith. 6And you also are among those who are called to belong to Jesus Christ.
In his greeting to the Roman Christians, Paul re-enforces who Christ is, both in his human heritage (v3), and his Heavenly heritage (v4).
7To all in Rome who are loved by God and called to be saints:
Grace and peace to you from God our Father and from the Lord Jesus Christ.
Paul's Longing to Visit Rome
8First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for all of you, because your faith is being reported all over the world. 9God, whom I serve with my whole heart in preaching the gospel of his Son, is my witness how constantly I remember you 10in my prayers at all times; and I pray that now at last by God's will the way may be opened for me to come to you. 11I long to see you so that I may impart to you some spiritual gift to make you strong—
When was the last time we were eager to go to church and see other believers?
12that is, that you and I may be mutually encouraged by each other's faith.
When was the last time we were encouraged by another's faith?
13I do not want you to be unaware, brothers, that I planned many times to come to you (but have been prevented from doing so until now) in order that I might have a harvest among you, just as I have had among the other Gentiles.
14I am obligated both to Greeks and non-Greeks, both to the wise and the foolish. 15That is why I am so eager to preach the gospel also to you who are at Rome.
Paul had a willing and receptive audience in Rome. There were some Christians already there, but for the most part, Rome was ripe for the new idea that the Gospel presented.
16I am not ashamed of the gospel,
Are WE ashamed of the Gospel? Is Jesus an afterthought to our friends and co-workers?
because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile. 17For in the gospel a righteousness from God is revealed, a righteousness that is by faith from first to last,[c] just as it is written: "The righteous will live by faith."[d]
Salvation for everyone...no matter what he or she has done. No sin too small, or too big, for God to overlook. No sin too small, or too big, for Christ to forgive.
Thursday, July 17, 2008
the cost of living
I've recently been apartment hunting to try to lower my expenses. Mind you, my current apartment runs me $465 a month for my studio, storage in the basement and a parking spot and includes heat and water; factor in electric, total of $500.
Why would I move?
To save money.
My commute to work is 50 round trip, 5 days a week. 250 miles, almost all highway.
My car gets better than 30 miles per gallon, so just on driving to work alone, per month, I spend $133 (figured at $4 a gallon/30 MPG).
I've got a lead on a place in Oconomowoc, 4 miles from work. Eight miles a day round trip. Forty miles a week. $585 a month, heat AND electric included.
So what's the problem?
I currently live 3 miles away from my girlfriend. This is the woman I want to marry. Currently, our schedules only allow us to see each other a couple of times a week, Thursdays for laundry at her folk's house, and a couple of days during the weekend.
Now it's a scheduling issue, but if I move 30 west, it's a logistics issue.
Would I be saving enough money to make it all work out?
Why would I move?
To save money.
My commute to work is 50 round trip, 5 days a week. 250 miles, almost all highway.
My car gets better than 30 miles per gallon, so just on driving to work alone, per month, I spend $133 (figured at $4 a gallon/30 MPG).
I've got a lead on a place in Oconomowoc, 4 miles from work. Eight miles a day round trip. Forty miles a week. $585 a month, heat AND electric included.
So what's the problem?
I currently live 3 miles away from my girlfriend. This is the woman I want to marry. Currently, our schedules only allow us to see each other a couple of times a week, Thursdays for laundry at her folk's house, and a couple of days during the weekend.
Now it's a scheduling issue, but if I move 30 west, it's a logistics issue.
Would I be saving enough money to make it all work out?
Monday, July 7, 2008
aftermath of the weekend
Hope you had a good holiday weekend...here's how mine went:
worked on the 3rd, over to Holly's for dinner, at which she and I decided to go to the fireworks on the lakefront. We tried a new location this year: the South side. The booms were a little late, but otherwise it went well. We were home in 20 minutes after the fireworks done.
For the 4th, picked up my buddy Curtis, and we joined Holly's Dad at the Holz Chevrolet car show. Nine-hundred cars, mostly classic muscle and some antique. We were able to case the grounds in about 2 hours.
Drop off Curtis at his place, then back to my place to pick up the fixin's for taco salad. Make that over at Holly's house for the get together that afternoon. It was a hit :P
Saturday I had a client in the morning, then bummed around my apartment. Went over to a friends house to watch the race from Daytona, then home.
Spent Sunday with Holly, just hanging out. After church, we had lunch at BW3's Mayfair, then listed to the rest of the ballgame at my place. Made a quick custard run, then went for a ride around town. Stopped to see some friends over in Oak Creek, then home to get ready for the work week.
Not entirely interesting, but then, if it was all interesting, how would we appreciate the differences??
worked on the 3rd, over to Holly's for dinner, at which she and I decided to go to the fireworks on the lakefront. We tried a new location this year: the South side. The booms were a little late, but otherwise it went well. We were home in 20 minutes after the fireworks done.
For the 4th, picked up my buddy Curtis, and we joined Holly's Dad at the Holz Chevrolet car show. Nine-hundred cars, mostly classic muscle and some antique. We were able to case the grounds in about 2 hours.
Drop off Curtis at his place, then back to my place to pick up the fixin's for taco salad. Make that over at Holly's house for the get together that afternoon. It was a hit :P
Saturday I had a client in the morning, then bummed around my apartment. Went over to a friends house to watch the race from Daytona, then home.
Spent Sunday with Holly, just hanging out. After church, we had lunch at BW3's Mayfair, then listed to the rest of the ballgame at my place. Made a quick custard run, then went for a ride around town. Stopped to see some friends over in Oak Creek, then home to get ready for the work week.
Not entirely interesting, but then, if it was all interesting, how would we appreciate the differences??
Thursday, July 3, 2008
waiting vs. anticipating
Holly and I were out for a walk Monday night, and we were talking about things pertaining to our church. I mentioned that I didn't feel like I was waiting for something, but that I am anticipating something.
She asked me to explain the difference.
Waiting....merely passing time until the next event, like at the doctors office; you wait to see the doctor.
Anticipating...expecting something to happen...like Christmas. You don't wait for Christmas, you anticipate it.
I'll be honest, I don't know what I'm anticipating, but I think it's gonna be cool.
She asked me to explain the difference.
Waiting....merely passing time until the next event, like at the doctors office; you wait to see the doctor.
Anticipating...expecting something to happen...like Christmas. You don't wait for Christmas, you anticipate it.
I'll be honest, I don't know what I'm anticipating, but I think it's gonna be cool.
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
racecars
As you may or may not know, dear reader, I'm a Nascar fan. I also happen to live across the street from the legendary Milwaukee Mile. This past weekend, the Craftsman truck series and the Nationwide series were in town.
Johnny Benson, winner of the Truck race on Friday night.
When I go to the track, I take my scanner. This allows me to listen in on radio communication between drivers, and crew chiefs, Nascar officials and track officials. I use noise cancelling headphones to save my hearing.
Carl Edwards. Flew in from California to run the event, then flew back to run the Sprint Cup race on Sunday.
Time to change the tires and put in some gas.
Under caution. Scott Wimmer, from Wisconsin, leads; Carl is second; Mike Bliss is third.
I had a great time both night. Friday got interesting as they cleared the bleachers due to lightning, but finished the race after the threat was gone.
Johnny Benson, winner of the Truck race on Friday night.
When I go to the track, I take my scanner. This allows me to listen in on radio communication between drivers, and crew chiefs, Nascar officials and track officials. I use noise cancelling headphones to save my hearing.
Carl Edwards. Flew in from California to run the event, then flew back to run the Sprint Cup race on Sunday.
Time to change the tires and put in some gas.
Under caution. Scott Wimmer, from Wisconsin, leads; Carl is second; Mike Bliss is third.I had a great time both night. Friday got interesting as they cleared the bleachers due to lightning, but finished the race after the threat was gone.
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
detours and such
Check out my other blog for pics of the floodwater along I-94 between Milwaukee and Madison
http://thechadhasspoken.blogspot.com
http://thechadhasspoken.blogspot.com
feeling nostalgic
For some reason today, I missed my old home in Central Illinois. Maybe, just maybe it's that tomorrow, June 19th, marks 9 years in Milwaukee. Nine years since I moved out of my mom's house to the Big City to start new.
I remember the radio station I used to listen to, WWCT, or Rock 106 as it was known. Great morning show to listen to while I drove to school, great rock on the air. I had a couple classes with one of the DJs, and got to know him fairly well.
I remember 4th of July on the Riverfront in Peoria. Fireworks set to music by another station in town. Place would be packed.
Late night movies at the Willow Knolls 14.
Hanging out at the riverfront in Pekin, under the bridge with our musclecars.
Burgers at Schooner's in Morton.
Torpedo's at La Gondola in Pekin.
99 cent gas.
Monday nights at Brown's house.
I remember the radio station I used to listen to, WWCT, or Rock 106 as it was known. Great morning show to listen to while I drove to school, great rock on the air. I had a couple classes with one of the DJs, and got to know him fairly well.
I remember 4th of July on the Riverfront in Peoria. Fireworks set to music by another station in town. Place would be packed.
Late night movies at the Willow Knolls 14.
Hanging out at the riverfront in Pekin, under the bridge with our musclecars.
Burgers at Schooner's in Morton.
Torpedo's at La Gondola in Pekin.
99 cent gas.
Monday nights at Brown's house.
Friday, June 13, 2008
Monday, June 9, 2008
oh Faramir, how you have fallen
when last we saw Faramir, he was in Middle Earth.
I guess he's fallen on hard times....I found him at Miller Park recently...
working for peanuts!
I guess he's fallen on hard times....I found him at Miller Park recently...
working for peanuts!
Monday, June 2, 2008
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)