I'm not the type of person who stays quiet when things happen. If I see something I like, I make it known. When I experience something not-so-hot, I say something, usually to try to fix it. I'm a firm believer that the squeaky wheel gets the oil. Besides, if I did something for someone and they didn't like it, I'd want to know, because chances are good that I was trying to do something nice.
Have I lost you yet? Let me explain.
I've had some problems with the post office. The first was because of a postage situation. I wrote a letter explaining the situation and agreeing to pay for more postage, but the post master took care of it. My packages were mailed and I didn't have to pay extra. Three cheers for the postal dude!
That was pretty easy. This is a small community. People get to know each other, so you can talk to the post master when you need to. I like that about where I live. But what do you do when it's a bigger problem? What if it's not MY post office, but the post office in general? How do you figure out the problem?
Simple - go to the website and contact them (there's a place to express concerns).
Okay, so I'm trying to print postage for a package I want to send. I follow the procedures, but the last two times nothing happens. It just doesn't print anything. Granted I'm not charged for the lack of postage, but there's obviously something wrong. I send a message to the trouble shooters and wait.
Pop quiz: how do you get people to leave you alone? Make communication with you the most annoying thing in the world.
I got an email back from the USPS tech people. Excited, I opened it. POOF. That's the air escaping my lungs as I read the email: [paraphrased for dramatic effect]
We're sorry this isn't working, but I can't help you until you give me the following info:
- what were you trying to print?
- what kind of printer do you have?
- is it a color printer?
- what kind of computer do you have?
- what system do you use?
- how old is your system?
- are you using the factory installed drivers, or did you install your own?
- what color was your paper?
- did you plug the printer into the computer?
Seriously - they sent me about ten questions that needed to be answered about my system before they could help me. But didn't I tell them that I've been able to print postage before? This is a new development, and none of the hardware on my end has changed?
Since I pretty sure my computer ISN'T the problem, and since I'm pretty sure some geeky guy in a cubicle in Virgina doesn't care about my printing problems, I ignored it.
Then came my magazines. I only have two subscriptions. I finally got them in the mail - both of them had the backs ripped off (one had the entire back HALF ripped off). Since they came across country I contacted local and national postal people.
Local post master - concerned, caring. Spoke to me and looked into it for me.
National computer center - [again, paraphrased]
Sorry about your mail. In order to figure out what happened, please give us the following info:
- when was the magazine sent?
- where did it come from?
- how long did it take you to get it?
- what does the label say?
- what's the code on the label?
- is the label white or pink?
- was there enough postage on it?
- did you buy the magazine, or was it a gift?
Once again, I don't think they even read my message. If they did, then they missed the part where the cover was ripped off. You know, the cover - the part with the labels and postage and codes on it??
With all of this said I want to make sure you know that I'm not anti-post office. I like dealing with the locals. I know them. They understand that my two magazines are important to me. I live in TC...it's still snowing here. There's nothing else to do if you don't have your magazines.
But those folks in Virgina...they don't seem to care. And they've made their point. I won't be dealing with them anymore. I will only talk with my local post master. He gets me. He's nice. He really does care about making a good impression, because he lives here, too.
Great big national organizations - they're really losing their appeal.
Friday, April 03, 2009
Friday, March 27, 2009
March 27th, 2009
I don't really have a topic today. In fact, there's no reason at all for me to write. I just feel like it. It's been a few days since I've posted, so why not.
Spring Break started today. I know that I don't teach full-time, but I'm really looking forward to this week off. I just want to write and work on selling some more articles. I'm determined to make more money as a writer. I just need to get myself going. You know how it is, when there's SO MUCH to do that you just don't know where to start? That's how freelancing has been for me. I've been content with my two little by-lines, but they don't pay the bills...they barely pay for the postage. I need to put some time into it.
I don't have the entire break to myself, though. Tomorrow morning I'm leaving town WAY too early on a Saturday to go to Warsaw, IN for a worship concert. I'm staying the night, going to church Sunday morning, then hiking back up to Michigan.
Monday will be a fun day :) A friend of mine is starting a job as a make-up artist at a local salon. She has to go through some training and needs to bring a model. Ta-da! Karin on Spring Break = available face for make-up training. I can handle sitting around and being made pretty for an afternoon. Just hoping it include a little brow tweezing ;) hee, hee
Other than that, I can't really think of anything that I HAVE to do for the week. That works for me. I'm at the library right now and realizing how much I miss it. I really do accomplish a lot when I'm at the library. Maybe it's the no-food policy, or the shushing librarians. Whatever it is, there aren't a lot of distractions and I usually do well here.
That's pretty much it. Did I forget anything? I don't think so. Oh! Props to the older sis and b-i-l and their new pad. I'm jealous. They spent two days looking, offered, and are now closing on a condo. Matt and I started looking last spring. Oy. We don't agree on much. But that's a long story best saved for another three posts.
Okay folks - enjoy the weekend! (Gotta go pee)
Spring Break started today. I know that I don't teach full-time, but I'm really looking forward to this week off. I just want to write and work on selling some more articles. I'm determined to make more money as a writer. I just need to get myself going. You know how it is, when there's SO MUCH to do that you just don't know where to start? That's how freelancing has been for me. I've been content with my two little by-lines, but they don't pay the bills...they barely pay for the postage. I need to put some time into it.
I don't have the entire break to myself, though. Tomorrow morning I'm leaving town WAY too early on a Saturday to go to Warsaw, IN for a worship concert. I'm staying the night, going to church Sunday morning, then hiking back up to Michigan.
Monday will be a fun day :) A friend of mine is starting a job as a make-up artist at a local salon. She has to go through some training and needs to bring a model. Ta-da! Karin on Spring Break = available face for make-up training. I can handle sitting around and being made pretty for an afternoon. Just hoping it include a little brow tweezing ;) hee, hee
Other than that, I can't really think of anything that I HAVE to do for the week. That works for me. I'm at the library right now and realizing how much I miss it. I really do accomplish a lot when I'm at the library. Maybe it's the no-food policy, or the shushing librarians. Whatever it is, there aren't a lot of distractions and I usually do well here.
That's pretty much it. Did I forget anything? I don't think so. Oh! Props to the older sis and b-i-l and their new pad. I'm jealous. They spent two days looking, offered, and are now closing on a condo. Matt and I started looking last spring. Oy. We don't agree on much. But that's a long story best saved for another three posts.
Okay folks - enjoy the weekend! (Gotta go pee)
Friday, March 20, 2009
I couldn't help myself...
As a registered voter and one of the millions of people who elect others to represent me in Washington D.C., I often email my reps to express my opinions on various bills/issues. Because I've done this I also get updates from time to time. I got the email today. I couldn't help it...I sent off a speedy response (posted below):
Dear Mrs. Beery:
I thought you might be interested in the speech I gave in the Senate yesterday regarding the outrageous bonuses given to executives at American International Group (AIG).As has been widely reported, AIG chose to dole out sizeable performance and retention bonuses last week to executives of the very financial services division that was responsible for creating many of the exotic securities that brought the company to its knees.
This tone-deaf decision represents not only an egregious misuse of taxpayer funds, but highlights just one of the many double standards that have been applied to companies receiving federal assistance.
It was only four months ago that our nation’s struggling domestic auto-makers asked for government loans that amount to a small fraction of the money we have given to Wall Street. Hardworking Americans, who put in an honest day’s work building automobiles, were summarily criticized for making a living wage as executives at financial services companies receiving billions of taxpayer dollars rewarded themselves with obscene bonuses.
Unlike the autoworkers, A.I.G.’s executives didn’t step up to the plate. I felt compelled to highlight this shameful double standard when I spoke yesterday on the floor of the United States Senate.You can view my full statement by clicking on the following link: [http://www.levin.senate.gov/newsroom/release.cfm?id=310035]
Sincerely,Carl Levin
Thank you for the notice about your opposition to the AIG bonuses. However, I wonder if you read the stimulus bill before you signed it. Sen. Dodd ADMITS that he wrote in a loop hole ALLOWING the execs at AIG to get bonuses.
It leaves me to believe one of two things:
1 - you didn't read the bill and are now trying to cover your butt
2 - you DID read the bill and are now being called on the carpet by the same people who didn't want you to sign the bill in the first place.
Your attempt to destroy consumer confidence in businesses is noted, but so is your irresponsible voting and bill-making.
Dear Mrs. Beery:
I thought you might be interested in the speech I gave in the Senate yesterday regarding the outrageous bonuses given to executives at American International Group (AIG).As has been widely reported, AIG chose to dole out sizeable performance and retention bonuses last week to executives of the very financial services division that was responsible for creating many of the exotic securities that brought the company to its knees.
This tone-deaf decision represents not only an egregious misuse of taxpayer funds, but highlights just one of the many double standards that have been applied to companies receiving federal assistance.
It was only four months ago that our nation’s struggling domestic auto-makers asked for government loans that amount to a small fraction of the money we have given to Wall Street. Hardworking Americans, who put in an honest day’s work building automobiles, were summarily criticized for making a living wage as executives at financial services companies receiving billions of taxpayer dollars rewarded themselves with obscene bonuses.
Unlike the autoworkers, A.I.G.’s executives didn’t step up to the plate. I felt compelled to highlight this shameful double standard when I spoke yesterday on the floor of the United States Senate.You can view my full statement by clicking on the following link: [http://www.levin.senate.gov/newsroom/release.cfm?id=310035]
Sincerely,Carl Levin
Thank you for the notice about your opposition to the AIG bonuses. However, I wonder if you read the stimulus bill before you signed it. Sen. Dodd ADMITS that he wrote in a loop hole ALLOWING the execs at AIG to get bonuses.
It leaves me to believe one of two things:
1 - you didn't read the bill and are now trying to cover your butt
2 - you DID read the bill and are now being called on the carpet by the same people who didn't want you to sign the bill in the first place.
Your attempt to destroy consumer confidence in businesses is noted, but so is your irresponsible voting and bill-making.
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Let's think about it...
I am truly saddened by the death of Natash Richardson. I enjoyed her work (what I've seen), but that's not what really grieves me. It's her two sons, 12 and 13 yrs. old, who will miss her. It's a sad, sad situation.
What's got me thinking, however, is the responses that I have heard, thus far, about the prevention of her death: Wear a Helmet.
Um...yeah. That might have helped. But let's consider this: You're not a doctor - go see one.
There was apparently an ambulance at the ski lodge waiting to take Richardson to the hospital. She felt fine, so she didn't want to go. Now, if it's a known fact that ski falls can result in head trauma (which is why the use of helmets is encouraged), why wouldn't you go have your head examined? While I don't know this for a fact, I feel confident in the assumption that Richardson could have afforded to go to the hospital.
The reason I bring this up is that two months ago a read an article in a women's magazine about a lady who had been in a car accident. She was sore, but thought she'd be okay. She had the insurance, but didn't want to miss work. Instead, she went about her life.
Two years later she is broke and in constant pain because of the injuries that she couldn't see that she didn't treat. She ended up missing work because she was in pain. She was gone for so many days that she lost her job.
It took her almost six weeks before she went to see her first doctor. By that time the damage was done, and some if it became permenant.
So this is what I'VE been thinking about...if you have the opportunity and the resourses SEE A DOCTOR!! I'm not sure why we as a people think we know more than doctors. Fifteen years of "ER" doesn't make up for years of medical school.
Maybe it would help to understand that by the time we feel sick, something is already wrong. A check-up can never hurt...ESPECIALLY if you have the insurance/money to get help!
That's what's going on in my head today. I'm not one to visit the doctor for every runny nose (I know how to treat that), but when someone serious happens, I have the time and resources to get a second opinion. The worst that can happen is being told you're fine. The best? Living to see another day.
Please folks...wear your helmet. And see a doctor!!
What's got me thinking, however, is the responses that I have heard, thus far, about the prevention of her death: Wear a Helmet.
Um...yeah. That might have helped. But let's consider this: You're not a doctor - go see one.
There was apparently an ambulance at the ski lodge waiting to take Richardson to the hospital. She felt fine, so she didn't want to go. Now, if it's a known fact that ski falls can result in head trauma (which is why the use of helmets is encouraged), why wouldn't you go have your head examined? While I don't know this for a fact, I feel confident in the assumption that Richardson could have afforded to go to the hospital.
The reason I bring this up is that two months ago a read an article in a women's magazine about a lady who had been in a car accident. She was sore, but thought she'd be okay. She had the insurance, but didn't want to miss work. Instead, she went about her life.
Two years later she is broke and in constant pain because of the injuries that she couldn't see that she didn't treat. She ended up missing work because she was in pain. She was gone for so many days that she lost her job.
It took her almost six weeks before she went to see her first doctor. By that time the damage was done, and some if it became permenant.
So this is what I'VE been thinking about...if you have the opportunity and the resourses SEE A DOCTOR!! I'm not sure why we as a people think we know more than doctors. Fifteen years of "ER" doesn't make up for years of medical school.
Maybe it would help to understand that by the time we feel sick, something is already wrong. A check-up can never hurt...ESPECIALLY if you have the insurance/money to get help!
That's what's going on in my head today. I'm not one to visit the doctor for every runny nose (I know how to treat that), but when someone serious happens, I have the time and resources to get a second opinion. The worst that can happen is being told you're fine. The best? Living to see another day.
Please folks...wear your helmet. And see a doctor!!
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Creative Cooking
As you may know, Matt and I are really getting into cooking these days. We've even made some casseroles together (and they were yummy). Last week we made up some of our own recipes. They're a bit off kilter, but we like 'em!
While suffering uncontrollable cravings (cyclical in nature, not prenatal) I NEEDED something salty...and sweet...and chewy...and hot. I created:
WURSTLOAF (or Bratloaf)
1 lb. brats, remove casings
Oatmeal (I just dumped it in - 1/3-1/2 c. I guess)
1 egg
Brown Sugar (again, I dumped - 1/4 c?)
Mix all ingredients together. Put in a small, greased loaf pan. Bake at 350 for 40 minutes. HEAVEN!!
Later in the week we wanted popcorn. We LOVE popcorn (the real stuff, not microwave). Matt is very creative with his spices, using anything from the cabinet that suits his fancy. Last week it was taco seasoning. We had emptied a spice jar, so he cleaned it out and dumped in a few packages of taco mix. We sprinkled it on our popcorn and, VIOLA! Yumminess.
I'll let you know if any other fabulous creations leave our kitchen, but I don't guarantee they'll be "normal" :)
While suffering uncontrollable cravings (cyclical in nature, not prenatal) I NEEDED something salty...and sweet...and chewy...and hot. I created:
WURSTLOAF (or Bratloaf)
1 lb. brats, remove casings
Oatmeal (I just dumped it in - 1/3-1/2 c. I guess)
1 egg
Brown Sugar (again, I dumped - 1/4 c?)
Mix all ingredients together. Put in a small, greased loaf pan. Bake at 350 for 40 minutes. HEAVEN!!
Later in the week we wanted popcorn. We LOVE popcorn (the real stuff, not microwave). Matt is very creative with his spices, using anything from the cabinet that suits his fancy. Last week it was taco seasoning. We had emptied a spice jar, so he cleaned it out and dumped in a few packages of taco mix. We sprinkled it on our popcorn and, VIOLA! Yumminess.
I'll let you know if any other fabulous creations leave our kitchen, but I don't guarantee they'll be "normal" :)
Burial
These things never load the way I want them to, dang it. Oh well.
Below is the video experience of my snow day. The video on the bottom goes first...then the top. (Opposite order from loading pictures, I guess)
It was a fabulous experience. I loved it. It made me tired.
Below is the video experience of my snow day. The video on the bottom goes first...then the top. (Opposite order from loading pictures, I guess)
It was a fabulous experience. I loved it. It made me tired.
Friday, February 27, 2009
Snap, Crackle, Pop - YUCK!
I finally did it - I bought a whole chicken (on sale) and cooked it. I've been out of my parents' house for nine years now...I figured it was time.
Why the wait, you ask? Because I can't STAND to eat chicken off a bone. Even as I type this entry I have goosebumps and am dry-heaving. Excuse me...
Hu-WAH!
Okay, I'm back, and I'm getting to the point.
A few months ago Matt and I bought part of a cow (fabulous!). And over the summer, Meijer has GREAT deals on frozen fish. But chicken...that fine piece of white meat stays just out of my price range. Sure, it goes on sale, but we eat it so quickly because we haven't had it in such a long time. That's because I would only buy the boneless, skinless variety. That has changed.
The local grocery chain had whole chickens on sale (not a HUGE markdown, but on sale). I decided to pick some up. As I generally don't like to hover in the kitchen, I found a nice crock pot recipe. I got all of the veggies and spices ready to go. Then I picked up the chicken. The slimy, slippery, wiggles-like-a-cold-dead-baby chicken. EH! I put it in the pot.
Several hours later - viola! A chicken. I decided to make some risotto to go with it, so I enlisted the hubby to slice the bird. Since neither of us knows how to cut a chicken, and since we don't care about presentation, I told him to just pull the thing apart and grab what he wanted.
Snap (ick), pop (ooph), crack (Ahhh!!)
He ripped the thing apart - it was great! Matt got his dark meat, I got my white meat, and the rest of the chicken was ready for sandwiches/soup/etc.
Now you know that I cooked the bird...but how did it turn out?
I served the chicken with the veggies from the pot (carrots, celery, onion) and with an alfredo risotto. I also decided to make gravy (my 2nd attempt) by pouring the chicken water into a pan and adding flour. Woo hoo!! It WORKED! (Disclaimer: I suffer from a genetic disorder that doesn't make good gravy...after the first attempt I thought it had me, but I have overcome!)
I served up the meal and am happy to report that Matt loved it SO much that he got a spoon to make sure he got all of the sauces off of the plate :)
Now that I know Matt will draw and quarter the carcass, I'm going to look for more recipes!
Why the wait, you ask? Because I can't STAND to eat chicken off a bone. Even as I type this entry I have goosebumps and am dry-heaving. Excuse me...
Hu-WAH!
Okay, I'm back, and I'm getting to the point.
A few months ago Matt and I bought part of a cow (fabulous!). And over the summer, Meijer has GREAT deals on frozen fish. But chicken...that fine piece of white meat stays just out of my price range. Sure, it goes on sale, but we eat it so quickly because we haven't had it in such a long time. That's because I would only buy the boneless, skinless variety. That has changed.
The local grocery chain had whole chickens on sale (not a HUGE markdown, but on sale). I decided to pick some up. As I generally don't like to hover in the kitchen, I found a nice crock pot recipe. I got all of the veggies and spices ready to go. Then I picked up the chicken. The slimy, slippery, wiggles-like-a-cold-dead-baby chicken. EH! I put it in the pot.
Several hours later - viola! A chicken. I decided to make some risotto to go with it, so I enlisted the hubby to slice the bird. Since neither of us knows how to cut a chicken, and since we don't care about presentation, I told him to just pull the thing apart and grab what he wanted.
Snap (ick), pop (ooph), crack (Ahhh!!)
He ripped the thing apart - it was great! Matt got his dark meat, I got my white meat, and the rest of the chicken was ready for sandwiches/soup/etc.
Now you know that I cooked the bird...but how did it turn out?
I served the chicken with the veggies from the pot (carrots, celery, onion) and with an alfredo risotto. I also decided to make gravy (my 2nd attempt) by pouring the chicken water into a pan and adding flour. Woo hoo!! It WORKED! (Disclaimer: I suffer from a genetic disorder that doesn't make good gravy...after the first attempt I thought it had me, but I have overcome!)
I served up the meal and am happy to report that Matt loved it SO much that he got a spoon to make sure he got all of the sauces off of the plate :)
Now that I know Matt will draw and quarter the carcass, I'm going to look for more recipes!
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
How Bad Is It?
[Sorry, don't know where this came from. Just wanted to put it out there.]
Our economy is in a sorry state. People can't afford to heat their homes. Children go with out medicine because it's too expensive. Families skip meals to make the foot last.
I roll my eyes.
Am I heartless? Cruel? Ignorant?
No, I'm observant.
While many struggle to pay their heating bills, they're still partying in New Orleans. They say the Mardi Gras celebration this year is as good as it's been in the past. And that kid who's parents can't afford the meds for his ADHD? Yeah...he got a Wii for Christmas. Oh, don't forget the hungry family who has to visit the food bank. They can't afford the food because they just bought a brand new flat screen TV for their bedroom.
I'm NOT making this up. I KNOW these people. This isn't some story I read on-line. I can take you through my city and show you who these people are because they've admitted it to me.
And that's why I have a problem with the blanket excuses. I understand that there are people out there who have done things right and are getting the short end of the stick. But I also saw a woman in line at Meijer the other day who was using WIC to get her groceries while she talked on her Bluetooth and looked at pictures on a cell phone that's way more expensive than mine.
I'm not about giving my money/food to an organization that will just give it to anyone who comes in with a sob story. There are people who NEED help in America...but until people disconnect their cable, take the cell phones away from the kids, and cut back the unnecessary expenses, don't come crying to me.
Do you realize that my husband had to take almost 10 months off of work? On top of that, we had his medical bills (most of which were covered by insurance, thankfully). But that left us tight. How did we do it?
I cut coupons and use them on sale merchandise (my average payment, not counting produce, is 45% off the regular price...EVERY TIME I grocery shop!). I moved out of my parents' house eight years ago...I had cable for about six months when my roommate ordered it. I've never paid for it, and I don't miss it. I used the internet at the library (we just got our own a few months ago). I collect popcans. If I DO go the movies, I go to matinees on Tuesday, when the popcorn is $0.50 a bucket. I only eat out if I have a BOGO coupon...and I fill up on the salad, bring everything else home, and give the leftovers to my husband for lunches for a week. I've never paid more than $0.99 for my phone (whenever I renew my contract).
With that said, if things got worse for us, I can still cut costs. We can get rid of the cell phones and put in a land line; get rid of the internet (the library still works); we can get sell our cars for older ones, or drop the coverage to the basic. We STILL have options to make it work.
And that's why I don't donate my groceries or my food to generic organizations anymore. There are too many entitled people out there. Too many uneducated, untrained, unwilling to sacrifice people who think they deserve the same life-style as those people who gave up the time and money to earn a degree or get the training needed to make a career and provide for themselves.
So what about those people who DO need the help? The ones who lost their jobs, got sick without insurance, and are scraping by with barely anything? I'm happy to help...I'm happy to give what I can to help how I can.
Some people really are doing everything right and it's just not working. It's time to stop assuming that everyone who says they "need" falls into that category. There's a difference between 'need' and 'want'. If we can figure that out, we'll do alright.
Our economy is in a sorry state. People can't afford to heat their homes. Children go with out medicine because it's too expensive. Families skip meals to make the foot last.
I roll my eyes.
Am I heartless? Cruel? Ignorant?
No, I'm observant.
While many struggle to pay their heating bills, they're still partying in New Orleans. They say the Mardi Gras celebration this year is as good as it's been in the past. And that kid who's parents can't afford the meds for his ADHD? Yeah...he got a Wii for Christmas. Oh, don't forget the hungry family who has to visit the food bank. They can't afford the food because they just bought a brand new flat screen TV for their bedroom.
I'm NOT making this up. I KNOW these people. This isn't some story I read on-line. I can take you through my city and show you who these people are because they've admitted it to me.
And that's why I have a problem with the blanket excuses. I understand that there are people out there who have done things right and are getting the short end of the stick. But I also saw a woman in line at Meijer the other day who was using WIC to get her groceries while she talked on her Bluetooth and looked at pictures on a cell phone that's way more expensive than mine.
I'm not about giving my money/food to an organization that will just give it to anyone who comes in with a sob story. There are people who NEED help in America...but until people disconnect their cable, take the cell phones away from the kids, and cut back the unnecessary expenses, don't come crying to me.
Do you realize that my husband had to take almost 10 months off of work? On top of that, we had his medical bills (most of which were covered by insurance, thankfully). But that left us tight. How did we do it?
I cut coupons and use them on sale merchandise (my average payment, not counting produce, is 45% off the regular price...EVERY TIME I grocery shop!). I moved out of my parents' house eight years ago...I had cable for about six months when my roommate ordered it. I've never paid for it, and I don't miss it. I used the internet at the library (we just got our own a few months ago). I collect popcans. If I DO go the movies, I go to matinees on Tuesday, when the popcorn is $0.50 a bucket. I only eat out if I have a BOGO coupon...and I fill up on the salad, bring everything else home, and give the leftovers to my husband for lunches for a week. I've never paid more than $0.99 for my phone (whenever I renew my contract).
With that said, if things got worse for us, I can still cut costs. We can get rid of the cell phones and put in a land line; get rid of the internet (the library still works); we can get sell our cars for older ones, or drop the coverage to the basic. We STILL have options to make it work.
And that's why I don't donate my groceries or my food to generic organizations anymore. There are too many entitled people out there. Too many uneducated, untrained, unwilling to sacrifice people who think they deserve the same life-style as those people who gave up the time and money to earn a degree or get the training needed to make a career and provide for themselves.
So what about those people who DO need the help? The ones who lost their jobs, got sick without insurance, and are scraping by with barely anything? I'm happy to help...I'm happy to give what I can to help how I can.
Some people really are doing everything right and it's just not working. It's time to stop assuming that everyone who says they "need" falls into that category. There's a difference between 'need' and 'want'. If we can figure that out, we'll do alright.
Thursday, February 19, 2009
House Sitting - Good for the House Hunt
For two weeks I'll be house sitting for friends of mine. I've been here for a few days, and it's nice. Sort of. It's been an eye opener, that's for sure. I also think it'll help me when Matt and I start looking for a house. Here's why...
I used to want to live in town. I mean, now nice to live within walking distance of the library and grocery story, plus the gym, animal feed, and gun supplies! Okay, so I wouldn't need ALL of it, but the thought was nice. But then you have neighbors...close neighbors. And traffic. And noise.
I like where I live now - I'm about 15 minutes from TC, so I'm not by all of the shopping (and the people) but I can still walk to the grocery store and Kmart. Between the two, I can usually find whatever I need. There are a few other houses around and I know my neighbors, but there's not the traffic and flow of strangers zooming by. I really like it. That made me think that I wanted to live in the country. I'd like to have a few acres (my goal is to have a veggie garden!) and some space, but still be a close enough drive to TC for my needs.
I am currently house sitting in the country. I'm about 20 min. from TC (which seemed okay for a while). It's a big, warm house with lots of comfy couches and very few distractions to keep me from my writing [to check up on that, visit here]. It was fun...for about four hours. After the honeymoon phase I started to understand what it REALLY is that I want.
A small town.
I'm not looking for a nice country setting (trust me - the place that I'm at is about as nice as it gets) because it's too isolated for me. I'm sure its nice for the people who live here - it's a family of five and the kids are home schooled, so no one is home alone all day. But for me? When I focus more on my writing, I'm going to be home a LOT...by myself...all day. It's only taken me one day to figure out that I'll go stir-crazy!
But not in a small town. Even though I currently live in a small subdivision, it really is its own little community. I can be home by myself all day, but I don't feel alone. I watch people walk/run/bike by my house. I can skip up to the store and grab a few things, just to get out of the house and breathe for a minute. I can be "alone" without being COMPLETELY alone.
Does that make sense? Maybe not, but it does to me. I need people! Not a lot (too many and I get jittery), but I need someone.
And so now I have a better idea of what to look for, what I personally need in a house. Now I just hope Matt feels the same way :)
I used to want to live in town. I mean, now nice to live within walking distance of the library and grocery story, plus the gym, animal feed, and gun supplies! Okay, so I wouldn't need ALL of it, but the thought was nice. But then you have neighbors...close neighbors. And traffic. And noise.
I like where I live now - I'm about 15 minutes from TC, so I'm not by all of the shopping (and the people) but I can still walk to the grocery store and Kmart. Between the two, I can usually find whatever I need. There are a few other houses around and I know my neighbors, but there's not the traffic and flow of strangers zooming by. I really like it. That made me think that I wanted to live in the country. I'd like to have a few acres (my goal is to have a veggie garden!) and some space, but still be a close enough drive to TC for my needs.
I am currently house sitting in the country. I'm about 20 min. from TC (which seemed okay for a while). It's a big, warm house with lots of comfy couches and very few distractions to keep me from my writing [to check up on that, visit here]. It was fun...for about four hours. After the honeymoon phase I started to understand what it REALLY is that I want.
A small town.
I'm not looking for a nice country setting (trust me - the place that I'm at is about as nice as it gets) because it's too isolated for me. I'm sure its nice for the people who live here - it's a family of five and the kids are home schooled, so no one is home alone all day. But for me? When I focus more on my writing, I'm going to be home a LOT...by myself...all day. It's only taken me one day to figure out that I'll go stir-crazy!
But not in a small town. Even though I currently live in a small subdivision, it really is its own little community. I can be home by myself all day, but I don't feel alone. I watch people walk/run/bike by my house. I can skip up to the store and grab a few things, just to get out of the house and breathe for a minute. I can be "alone" without being COMPLETELY alone.
Does that make sense? Maybe not, but it does to me. I need people! Not a lot (too many and I get jittery), but I need someone.
And so now I have a better idea of what to look for, what I personally need in a house. Now I just hope Matt feels the same way :)
Sunday, February 15, 2009
32 Things About Us
This is kind of like the 25 things-except there are pre-decided questions and it's about you and your spouse, not just you. Come on, play along - inquiring minds want to know! :-)
1. What are your middle names?
Verner and Victoria
2. How long have you been together?
We met March 2005 - almost 4 years!
3. How long did you know each other before you started dating?
Matt wouldn't call it "dating" for about a month (but we dated from March 2005)
4. Who asked who out?
Matt pursued me actively
5. How old are each of you?
I'm 31...he's 30.
6. Who's the funny one?
Publicly - I am. Privately - he cracks me up!
7. Do you have any children together?
Ah, no
8. What about pets?
Our first baby was Roo (gone since Oct. 2006). Now we have Bucket and Midgie, our black and white cats.
9. Which situation is the hardest on you as a couple?
Dealing with stuff (actual, physical stuff - books, tools, toys - we have a lot of it)
10. Did you go to the same school?
Nope
11. Are you from the same home town?
Nope
12. Who is the smartest?
I can be taught anything; Matt can teach himself anything (that makes me jealous)
13. Who is the most sensitive?
He is
14. Where do you eat out most as a couple?
I like to keep things different, but we eat at North Peak a lot.
15. Where is the furthest you two have traveled together as a couple?
Las Vegas
16. What do you do on favorite date nights?
Let someone else cook, hang out at Borders, then cuddle up at home
17. Who has the worst temper?
Um, me
18. Who does the cooking?
Um, me - but it's Matt's new passion! Hopefully he'll have the time to cook!
19. Who is the more social?
Me!!
20. Who is the neat-freak?
I am by NO means a neat-freak, but compared to Matt I am.
21. Who is the more stubborn?
I am
22. Who hogs the bed?
The cats. How can something so little require SO much space!
23. Who wakes up earlier?
Naturally - me. For work - Matt (4:30 in the summer!! Shoot me!)
24. Where was your first date?
Officially?? I don't know. Our first time hanging out was at Tim & Nancy's house watching MSU in the Final 4 with our friend Jess.
25.Who usually drives when you are out together?
I hate to drive. When Matt was too sick to go to my high school reunion, I gave Shaina gas money to drive me. I only drive Matt to the hospital (and those days are over!)
26. Do you get flowers often?
Nah. I'd rather have the money for something else.
27. How do you spend the holidays?
In Scottville or Traverse City: crazy-busy in Scottville, and laid-back in TC
28. Who is more jealous?
Don't know.
29. How long did it take to get serious?
We had the RDT (relationship defining talk) five days after our first "date" (with Jess)
30. Who eats more?
We can both pack it away...but I'm going with Matt
31. Who does/did the laundry?
Me (it's part of our arrangement - I work part-time outside of the house and do the chores)
32. Who's better with the computer?
We're both pretty good, but he tries to fix things himself. I call professionals.
1. What are your middle names?
Verner and Victoria
2. How long have you been together?
We met March 2005 - almost 4 years!
3. How long did you know each other before you started dating?
Matt wouldn't call it "dating" for about a month (but we dated from March 2005)
4. Who asked who out?
Matt pursued me actively
5. How old are each of you?
I'm 31...he's 30.
6. Who's the funny one?
Publicly - I am. Privately - he cracks me up!
7. Do you have any children together?
Ah, no
8. What about pets?
Our first baby was Roo (gone since Oct. 2006). Now we have Bucket and Midgie, our black and white cats.
9. Which situation is the hardest on you as a couple?
Dealing with stuff (actual, physical stuff - books, tools, toys - we have a lot of it)
10. Did you go to the same school?
Nope
11. Are you from the same home town?
Nope
12. Who is the smartest?
I can be taught anything; Matt can teach himself anything (that makes me jealous)
13. Who is the most sensitive?
He is
14. Where do you eat out most as a couple?
I like to keep things different, but we eat at North Peak a lot.
15. Where is the furthest you two have traveled together as a couple?
Las Vegas
16. What do you do on favorite date nights?
Let someone else cook, hang out at Borders, then cuddle up at home
17. Who has the worst temper?
Um, me
18. Who does the cooking?
Um, me - but it's Matt's new passion! Hopefully he'll have the time to cook!
19. Who is the more social?
Me!!
20. Who is the neat-freak?
I am by NO means a neat-freak, but compared to Matt I am.
21. Who is the more stubborn?
I am
22. Who hogs the bed?
The cats. How can something so little require SO much space!
23. Who wakes up earlier?
Naturally - me. For work - Matt (4:30 in the summer!! Shoot me!)
24. Where was your first date?
Officially?? I don't know. Our first time hanging out was at Tim & Nancy's house watching MSU in the Final 4 with our friend Jess.
25.Who usually drives when you are out together?
I hate to drive. When Matt was too sick to go to my high school reunion, I gave Shaina gas money to drive me. I only drive Matt to the hospital (and those days are over!)
26. Do you get flowers often?
Nah. I'd rather have the money for something else.
27. How do you spend the holidays?
In Scottville or Traverse City: crazy-busy in Scottville, and laid-back in TC
28. Who is more jealous?
Don't know.
29. How long did it take to get serious?
We had the RDT (relationship defining talk) five days after our first "date" (with Jess)
30. Who eats more?
We can both pack it away...but I'm going with Matt
31. Who does/did the laundry?
Me (it's part of our arrangement - I work part-time outside of the house and do the chores)
32. Who's better with the computer?
We're both pretty good, but he tries to fix things himself. I call professionals.
Saturday, February 07, 2009
Happy Birthday, Baby
Well folks - the baby is finally 30...my parents are OLD!!
Anyway, she had a 30th birthday party...here are some shots.
M and her cake (made with love by C)
M's friend Yates enjoying her FIRST s'more!!! (Yes, we made them in the fireplace in the background)
Fun with games!! We played LRC, Spoons, Charades (with Play-do), and this was us playing Apples to Apples - Speed Version.
The morning after... (she's gonna kill me for this picture)
Close-ups of that cake...wait'll ya see it!!!
Wow!
Anyway, she had a 30th birthday party...here are some shots.
M and her cake (made with love by C)
M's friend Yates enjoying her FIRST s'more!!! (Yes, we made them in the fireplace in the background)
Fun with games!! We played LRC, Spoons, Charades (with Play-do), and this was us playing Apples to Apples - Speed Version.
The morning after... (she's gonna kill me for this picture)
Close-ups of that cake...wait'll ya see it!!!
Wow!
My Super Bowl
Welcome to my 2009 Super Bowl Experience!!! You'll see my lovely party-attendees here, as well as my Super Bowl dancer/singer, and some footage of "Bo" watching his first game (yes, I know his video is crooked...if you know how to rotate footage, please let me know).
Enjoy!
Sis and Bro
Mommy and Daughter
Daddy and Little Man
The Gabel kids in action...
Enjoy!
Sis and Bro
Mommy and Daughter
Daddy and Little Man
The Gabel kids in action...
Monday, February 02, 2009
Phil
It's been snowing at my house since November 14th. Six more weeks of winter?!?!
Someone shoot the groundhog.
Someone shoot the groundhog.
Sunday, February 01, 2009
Super Bowl Commercials? Hardly.
I actually watch the Super Bowl for the game - I enjoy football. This year's game was great (even though I wanted the Cards to win). I do realize, however, that many people watch the game for the commercials. I usually enjoy them. This year was different.
Sadly there have been games in the past when I would rate the commercials as better than the game. There might be a few games I rated better than the commercials. This year we had a surprise entry - movie trailers.
I LIKE movies based on video games and toys from my childhood. I ENJOY movies that have high energy, lots of action, and good looking guys never hurt. This year's Super Bowl did NOT disappoint me!!
Since I don't have TV reception at home I don't get to see trailers. I was THRILLED to see some much-anticipated trailers!!
1. GI Joe (cuz knowing is half the battle)
2. Fast and Furious (fast cars and cute men? sign me up)
3. Star Trek (fast space ships and cute men? need I say more?)
4. Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen (I've seen Transformers 50 times...)
5. Up (this doesn't actually fall into any of my previous categories...but it's Pixar)
I'm pretty sure there were more, but it doesn't matter right now. Those five movies have me stoked!! I'm so excited for the coming movie season!
And thank you advertising executives for putting these trailers in there for me to see. You have my gratitude :)
[I'm MUCH more excited than this post lets on - I just can't put into words the jumping, pointing, and squealing that happened when I saw the GI Joe trailer]
Sadly there have been games in the past when I would rate the commercials as better than the game. There might be a few games I rated better than the commercials. This year we had a surprise entry - movie trailers.
I LIKE movies based on video games and toys from my childhood. I ENJOY movies that have high energy, lots of action, and good looking guys never hurt. This year's Super Bowl did NOT disappoint me!!
Since I don't have TV reception at home I don't get to see trailers. I was THRILLED to see some much-anticipated trailers!!
1. GI Joe (cuz knowing is half the battle)
2. Fast and Furious (fast cars and cute men? sign me up)
3. Star Trek (fast space ships and cute men? need I say more?)
4. Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen (I've seen Transformers 50 times...)
5. Up (this doesn't actually fall into any of my previous categories...but it's Pixar)
I'm pretty sure there were more, but it doesn't matter right now. Those five movies have me stoked!! I'm so excited for the coming movie season!
And thank you advertising executives for putting these trailers in there for me to see. You have my gratitude :)
[I'm MUCH more excited than this post lets on - I just can't put into words the jumping, pointing, and squealing that happened when I saw the GI Joe trailer]
Friday, January 30, 2009
Off the beaten path...
In the midst of my vacation publications, I just want to vent.
I can't stand hypocrites. Nothing gets me as riled up as hypocrites.
I KNOW there are crooked people in the world. I KNOW you can't trust everyone. I KNOW that there is evil in the world, just as I know there is good.
What I DON'T need is for you to tell me who is evil and why they're evil. Do you know why I don't need that? Because Michael Moore - hater of all things capitalist - owns stock in Halliburton. Bruce Springsteen - defender of workers' rights - sells a CD exclusively at Wal-Mart (if you can find it, I'd like to know how much money he made on that deal).
As far as I'm concerned, Moore and Springsteen can kiss it. While you might hate the oil barons, at least you know what they're doing - they're trying to make money! M & S want you to think they're above that...they're too good for that...they're hypocrites.
So please - don't send me your emails telling me why one person's hypocrisy is better than another's. Don't defend your flavor of the week just because you don't like mine. In case you weren't aware - I am a college educated, working woman with enough brain cells left to read the stats and compare the data. Save your energy for someone too lazy to do the research (don't worry - according to the JED report there are 63 million of them out there).
I can't stand hypocrites. Nothing gets me as riled up as hypocrites.
I KNOW there are crooked people in the world. I KNOW you can't trust everyone. I KNOW that there is evil in the world, just as I know there is good.
What I DON'T need is for you to tell me who is evil and why they're evil. Do you know why I don't need that? Because Michael Moore - hater of all things capitalist - owns stock in Halliburton. Bruce Springsteen - defender of workers' rights - sells a CD exclusively at Wal-Mart (if you can find it, I'd like to know how much money he made on that deal).
As far as I'm concerned, Moore and Springsteen can kiss it. While you might hate the oil barons, at least you know what they're doing - they're trying to make money! M & S want you to think they're above that...they're too good for that...they're hypocrites.
So please - don't send me your emails telling me why one person's hypocrisy is better than another's. Don't defend your flavor of the week just because you don't like mine. In case you weren't aware - I am a college educated, working woman with enough brain cells left to read the stats and compare the data. Save your energy for someone too lazy to do the research (don't worry - according to the JED report there are 63 million of them out there).
Hoover Dam
For my sister's 30th birthday she took me to the Hoover Dam. It was quite spectacular. I took photos of it and off of it. The giant structure in the back ground is a bridge they're building from Nevada to Arizona. That was pretty spiffy, too.
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas
The poopy diapers, quarts of spit-up, teeny-tiny toys that you find on the floor with your bare feet.
Yep. None of that at my house.
Yep. None of that at my house.
Monday, January 26, 2009
And I'm off!!
I am once again going to Vegas. It was -4 in TC when I woke up this morning. I'll be 50 in Nevada tomorrow. That's a no brainer.
While I'm there my younger sister will celebrate her 30th birthday (woo hoo)! And I will fly home on my 31st (um...yeah?). Don't cry for me, Argentina - I'm the one who booked the ticket! No biggie.
I plan on taking lots of pictures, a few videos, and maybe even writing a bit! I'd better be writing...
Okay, I'm off to bed. Gotta be up at 5am!!
While I'm there my younger sister will celebrate her 30th birthday (woo hoo)! And I will fly home on my 31st (um...yeah?). Don't cry for me, Argentina - I'm the one who booked the ticket! No biggie.
I plan on taking lots of pictures, a few videos, and maybe even writing a bit! I'd better be writing...
Okay, I'm off to bed. Gotta be up at 5am!!
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Lousy, stinking timing
There are two events in the year to which I look forward (and neither is my birthday - that is a CELEBRATION!). I annually anticipate the company Christmas party, and my Super Bowl party.
Since I'm now a freelance writer and substitute teacher, I don't have a Christmas party, but my husband does. It's a grand ole time, filled with good food, chit-chat, and hot tubs (they have it at the Great Wolf Lodge, and it includes water park passes!).
I missed the 2008 Christmas party. I was in Vegas, meeting my new nephew and hanging out with my sisters. I truly enjoyed my time in the desert, but I missed my party.
I also look forward to my Super Bowl party in Elk Rapids. I call it "mine" because my husband and I usually go our separate ways on that night. He has "his" party; I have "mine". I went five years ago with a friend and have been going back ever since. There's good food, good company, and a sweet trophy for the winner of the betting pool (I've contributed many dollars to this pool - I'm expecting it to pay out any year now). I really love my Super Bowl party. It's the only time of year that I see some of these people.
On Feb. 1st, 2009 I will be in Vegas, visiting my sisters.
I love my sisters. They're pretty interesting people...BUT THEY ARE MESSING UP MY SOCIAL LIFE!
Seriously - two nights, that's all I have to look forward to! And now I have to wait until December to experience either thrill again!
Sigh.
I'm sure I'll get over it. I got over the Christmas party thingy. I can get over this. I guess. Maybe.
(DISCLAIMER: There are other days of the years that I look forward to. I am purposefully being dramatic and over-the-top for the humorous effect. If you are unable to digest my sense of humor, I don't want to upset you - please stop reading).
;)
Since I'm now a freelance writer and substitute teacher, I don't have a Christmas party, but my husband does. It's a grand ole time, filled with good food, chit-chat, and hot tubs (they have it at the Great Wolf Lodge, and it includes water park passes!).
I missed the 2008 Christmas party. I was in Vegas, meeting my new nephew and hanging out with my sisters. I truly enjoyed my time in the desert, but I missed my party.
I also look forward to my Super Bowl party in Elk Rapids. I call it "mine" because my husband and I usually go our separate ways on that night. He has "his" party; I have "mine". I went five years ago with a friend and have been going back ever since. There's good food, good company, and a sweet trophy for the winner of the betting pool (I've contributed many dollars to this pool - I'm expecting it to pay out any year now). I really love my Super Bowl party. It's the only time of year that I see some of these people.
On Feb. 1st, 2009 I will be in Vegas, visiting my sisters.
I love my sisters. They're pretty interesting people...BUT THEY ARE MESSING UP MY SOCIAL LIFE!
Seriously - two nights, that's all I have to look forward to! And now I have to wait until December to experience either thrill again!
Sigh.
I'm sure I'll get over it. I got over the Christmas party thingy. I can get over this. I guess. Maybe.
(DISCLAIMER: There are other days of the years that I look forward to. I am purposefully being dramatic and over-the-top for the humorous effect. If you are unable to digest my sense of humor, I don't want to upset you - please stop reading).
;)
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