This past week our lives have changed. It was hectic. Tantrums. Crying. Loneliness. Wonderment. Abandonment. Crying. Soul searching. Fear. Questioning.....
Our little girl started preschool. Her first day was Monday August 15th, 2011. But first let me back up.
A few weeks ago we went to visit Mike's parents, Grandpa Wayne and Grandma Sandi. We needed to do it before school started but we really needed to do it for Mike's peace of mind. There was a tragedy in the Keene family and they lost a very important person in their life. Mike wanted to make sure his dad was in fact ok. We went down to Pensacola and had a fantastic few days checking out their new place, visiting museums, and watching stunning sunsets every evening from their back deck looking over the Bay. Claire absolutely loved it all. She had said on several occasions "I need to visit Grandpa, He needs to see me.". While we were there I started getting a tooth ache. At first it was nothing but a nuisance, not real painful. By Sunday afternoon, the day we were headed home, it became pretty painful. That night I couldn't sleep. I have never had a more painful pain ever. Childbirth was a piece of cake compared to this pain. I got up Monday (well I can't say got up because I never slept) and made the dreaded call to a local dentist. I have an extreme fear of dentist. More than any normal person. I won't go into details but trust me. I woke Mike up and told him I had made an appt. He knew I was serious. I cried. It hurt. I cussed it. I prayed for some of the pain to at least ease. It was finally time for my appt and I was nervous but relieved that I may get some relief. I got the dreaded news, 'You need either a root canal or it needs to be extracted. The infection is deep.'. Well we all know that dental insurance really rather sucks. They don't like to pay for things, they will however pay for prevention. Mike had told me that if those were my options the root canal would probably be my best bet and well the dentist said the same thing. 2 prescriptions later and an appt set for my root canal I left the office. Once again I did not sleep that night or the next one. The pain pills didn't even touch the pain so i sat with a cold compress day and night on the side of my face. Finally Wednesday I had some relief. By Thursday night I noticed that I was having an allergic reaction to the antibiotic they had given me. GREAT! Call the dentist the next morning and he said "Stop taking that.". I made it through the weekend and Monday morning I had my root canal. The dentist did a fantastic job even though after my face woke up it felt like my jaw had been broken. Ok so I had new pain pills and guess what...I was allergic to them. Well fantastic. Anyway lets just say for a solid week it was Hell at this household. Poor Mike was having to do my job and his.
Now to Mike's situation. Ever since we have been back from Florida he has worked. Not one single day off. None. He works 12-14 hours and if you do the math that only leaves so many hours of the day. And most of the remaining has been spent on sleeping, eating lunch, getting a shower and then off to work again. He hasn't had a day to spend with Claire. He even missed the first PTO meeting that he so wanted to attend because someone didn't make it to work. Well after 12 days of working straight (Saturday the 13th) Claire finally had a meltdown of all meltdowns. She misses her daddy. She just wants him to come home. She would do anything for just 1 day with him.
Now we are back to Monday the 15th. She was so excited for school, back pack on her back, new Dora shoes on her feet she was ready to go. We arrived and she stuck to my leg. I finally got her to sit and color. I told her I would be back in a while to get her and to have a good day and I turned and left. Once in my car I began to tear up. Is she old enough? Is she ready? Am I ready? I kept coming back to the answer YES. She needs the social interaction. She needs structure. She needs to be more independent. When I showed back up to get her she was so happy to see me. She hugged me like she never has before. SHe was steady telling me about her day and how she missed me, missed me and hadn't wanted me to leave. I explained to her that Mama would always be there for her and I would always be there to pick her up. She told me she got in trouble on the play ground for taking her shoes off. I then told her that she has to keep her shoes on at all times at school.
Tuesday she was home with me. She goes M,W, and F. I enjoyed her home with me but noticed she was acting out more. Wanting attention, doing things she knows not to do. I thought Ok maybe it's school and maybe she is learning stuff from others. Then I thought she is just trying to get a handle on what was going on around her. I asked her if she wanted to go to school on Wednesday and she said yes. So Wednesday morning we got up and she went to school. I was greeted at the door by her teacher telling me there was a mishap on the playground. Apparently 2 boys were fighting. Claire stepped in and wanted them to stop. One of the boys shoved her and well she laid him out. She got in trouble and the 2 boys got in trouble too. Her only fault was wanting them to stop fighting. I told her next time she sees something like this to go find a teacher. She told me she would because she didn't want a time out again. That night she cried and told me she missed her daddy. She had been rather quiet and sort of reserved but still acting out. On Thursday we played and we swam and I did everything I could do to make her happy. Then bath time came around. She had meltdown of all meltdowns again. Two in less than a week. This is unlike her. She then told me she missed her daddy.
Finally it hit me. It isn't school that's making her act out, mouthy and all around unlike herself, it was the no time with her dad. She loves her daddy. She misses her daddy. She only wants one day a week with her daddy. She isn't asking for much. She is only 3 once in her life and she needs him. She was even coming up with ideas to make him come home...."Mama if we order pizza Daddy will have to come home to eat." I sat and thought about it. I wondered if Mike working so much and her going to school was too much for her. If her little brain could handle it all.
I got her up this morning for school and she seemed sad. I asked her if she wanted to go to school. She said yes. I then asked "What do we do if we see a fight?" "Go to the teacher. I don't want a time out." "Good girl." I took her to school. She was very quiet. She didn't want me to leave. She then went and sat alone and played with animals. I became sad. She is too young to be so sad. I left and I cried and cried and cried. I asked myself again "Is she old enough? Is she ready for school? What is best for her not me?" I still came back to the answer "Yes". But what she really needs is Daddy time. That is what is missing. So we are going to fix that sooner than later. She is the most important thing in our life. She comes first. I will give up anything that I have for her to not be sad. I can't be daddy for her even though I try. Only one person can be daddy. I feel so bad for him because it's such a huge stress. I mean having to work, being dog tired and knowing that his little girl is so sad. What a burden. Hopefully it will be worked out soon. Until then thanks for reading my depressing post. :)
P. S. During all this I had someone I thought would be above all name calling and ugly decide to in fact be ugly. She called me some nasty things that really really bothered me. It's ok though, the way I look at it she did me a favor and I will continue to pray because I am above that.
The Day My Life Changed
Friday, August 19, 2011
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Boy oh Boy
It's been a while since I have last posted. Maybe because I had nothing to post or maybe I just didn't have time with my busy busy life. If I were you I would opt for the first one. :D We have done our normal, day to day thing. We had weeks upon weeks where we had zero rain. The grass was straight up crawling to the nearest watering whole to find a drop, morsel of water. The wasp and every other insect (that is on steroids, I swear I have never seen them so BIG) would stay around the very tiny pool we had for Claire outside. I dreaded the outdoors. So HOT. Claire on the other hand, red faced and all, loved it. I kept after Mike to get us a pool, one we could ALL fit in. But him being a man and him being a Keene (haha I added that one) wouldn't entertain my idea. Finally though on Father's Day (and after I had one over on him) he agreed to look at them. I didn't want much, just something I could sit in and cool off and play with Claire in. I kept trying to tell him how cheap they were and that "yes we could afford it". Plus we still had Claire's birthday money from Grandma Sandi and Grandpa Wayne (aka Heehaw, thanks Emily). We decided on an Intex metal frame pool that is 12x30.
That we could sit and go under (easy for me, not so for Mike) and Claire can stand up and it's way over her head. We got it home set it up and started to fill it. Mike thought "this isn't going to be easy. This is going to be a lot of work" but has come to realize "Hey I really like this thing and hey it's really not that hard.". He rather enjoys taking care of it, which it is NOT hard to do. The only downside is it has RAINED everyday almost since we bought it. There has been 2 days I have been able to get in and 1 day for Mike. Now it's beautiful out again and is suppose to be steaming hot this weekend. Guess where we will be this weekend? Come on, Guess. That's right, our back yard. Woohoo! May even shoot off a firework or two on Monday. Just wanted to say God Bless you all and Have a Wonderful 4th.
PS I may have something to write about after the weekend. :)
PSS The pic with me in it...Thats Mike's home made chlorine dispenser, he was too cheap to buy one from the store. HAHA (Zaxby's cup and 2 liter Diet Coke bottle)
That we could sit and go under (easy for me, not so for Mike) and Claire can stand up and it's way over her head. We got it home set it up and started to fill it. Mike thought "this isn't going to be easy. This is going to be a lot of work" but has come to realize "Hey I really like this thing and hey it's really not that hard.". He rather enjoys taking care of it, which it is NOT hard to do. The only downside is it has RAINED everyday almost since we bought it. There has been 2 days I have been able to get in and 1 day for Mike. Now it's beautiful out again and is suppose to be steaming hot this weekend. Guess where we will be this weekend? Come on, Guess. That's right, our back yard. Woohoo! May even shoot off a firework or two on Monday. Just wanted to say God Bless you all and Have a Wonderful 4th.
PS I may have something to write about after the weekend. :)
PSS The pic with me in it...Thats Mike's home made chlorine dispenser, he was too cheap to buy one from the store. HAHA (Zaxby's cup and 2 liter Diet Coke bottle)
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Claire Turned 3
So this past weekend my baby girl turned 3. We had one awesome weekend! We did a lot of driving but it was all worth it. Claire when asked said "I have had the best weekend. My birthday was good!" and frankly that is all that matters. She was so happy to spend the night on a boat, feed the sea gulls, walk on the pier, swim in the ocean, play in the sand, eat some cookie cake, see all her people's, ride in a wagon behind a very cute little boy, see crabs, get lots of new toys and just be 3. The weekend was all about her and she knew it! I think everyone had a good time that was involved. I want to think Pops, Gramma, Aunt Shenca, Uncle Brad, Grandpa and Grandma Sandi for being part of her special weekend. You can all rest soundly knowing that you made a little girl very happy! Love you all!
Life Lessons
You ever do a pro and con list thinking there would most certainly be more pro's than con's? Then you sit down and write your list, look at it when your done and realize that there are far more con's than pro's? So what's the hold up? That dang straight line is quickly turning into a fork!
I've recently made some mental notes. Do you ever do that? Anyway, I have made some wonderful revelations about how I should finally deal with people and situations. I've made some good notes and some not so good notes. Ignorance is NOT bliss because once you are no longer (if you ever get that lucky) ignorant you are hit right between the eyes. Then the things you have been ignorant about turn out to be big ole pain in the butt.
I've watched couples and families over the past couple of years and one thing I have learned is there are more secrets, more denial, more ignorance and lies than I care to even know. Some think that their life is great and love to rub it in your face when the actual reality is grim. Money does NOT buy happiness I don't care who you are! Things are nice, yes. No worry about how a bill will get paid is nice, yes. Being able to splurge is nice, yes. But do those things fill your heart with happiness and joy, no. I've watched people walk around with entitlement and know how. They seem pretty miserable to me, so I don't know who they are fooling, maybe themselves. One thing I do know is that I don't want to live like that. If that means I live in a one room shack, have to kill my own dinner, or plow my own fields then so be it. I am happy and content with my life. I don't need all the bells and whistles. I don't need the newer home, with the fancy car or the newest technology. I have lived without cable or a land line for YEARS. I don't need to catch the latest movie or try the newer restaurant to have fulfillment. I don't need that best friend to gab all my secrets to, because I live with my best friend. I can trust him with anything and know he won't judge me. He loves me for me. We have no secrets. We some times butt heads but we work through it. I don't want to be with anyone else. I have never thought about being with someone else.
Another life lesson is people will never change. They shouldn't have to change. I am not changing so why should they. What I have to do is lower my expectations of them. I can control how others will effect me not them. If my expectations are lower then my level of hurt decreases dramatically.
I'm often reminded of Newton's 3rd Law of Motion
:: Action and reaction are equal and opposite
To every action there is an equal and opposite reaction
::
This means to me this: If you are going to be you then I will be me. If you think what you do is right and the things you say are right then you should know that I have every right to react in an opposite manner. There is a difference in being yourself and saying what's on your mind and being flat out obnoxious, rude and hurtful. Everyone has a bad day, every one. But to take your bad day out on the next person doesn't make it ok just simply because you can ask forgiveness from God and God alone. You most certainly can say what you want and treat people how you feel is right at the time. But you also need to realize that other people may not think the way you think and may not like the things you say and may just decide you aren't who they thought you were and walk away. That's totally ok because 'if they don't like who I am then they can shove it." right? Depends on who you ask. Means something different to every one because we are all different.
I have also noticed that jealousy can cause people to act immaturely. I mean really, why is your jealousy my problem? It's not so don't take it out on me! That is your problem and yours alone. If it's your insecurity then you deal with it, don't bring it to my door on your drama llama. Remember the 10th Commandment and repeat it over and over in your head if you need to. It's amazing how people are jealous of material things or how they perceive someone else's life. Quit worrying about what others are doing in their home and tend to your own home. Make yourself happy in the process, cause I know I am from now on. Frankly I am done worrying about why someone behaves the way they do or the reasons why, because the only one in charge of my life is me. Each person is in charge of their own life and their own happiness.
This all leads me back to my pro's and con's. I am coming to a fork and will soon enough have to choose a path that makes ME happy along with my family of course. But it is ours and ours alone to decide. So if you are contemplating on asking us 'what decision or decisions or what does this mean?' please revert back to the above paragraph and tend to your own household, because you will not get the answer or answers you are looking for. K thanks.
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
My Mother's Day
I just wanted to share some pictures from my Mother's Day. Mike did good this year. :)
The World's Loss And Heavens Gain.
The past 2 weeks have been nothing but, pardon my French, hell. With the exception of My beautiful family, our health and family time. As you all know Alabama was tortured with a massive tornado outbreak. We as a state are still doing clean up. Things look better but there are still a lot of things to be done. My mind has been on everything BUT Mother's Day, my dad's birthday, or my child's upcoming 3rd birthday. I have been touring preschool's, worrying about others and thinking hard about my own life.
On Wednesday, May 4th I received a phone call from my mom. My mom is the world's WORST person to give sad, bad or even good news. Haha! Love her to pieces though. Anyway she started out by saying 'I just want to talk to you. I miss you! Will you please come home?'. I respond with 'Mama, what's going on? You know I love you too.' She tells me that my great aunt passed away. I know some may wonder, why is that so important to you? Well let me tell you a little about her.
She was my nana's baby sister. She was the most like her, even favored quite a bit. She had a sense of humor out of this world. She was a wonderful mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, great aunt, companion and friend. I have often said that my grandmother was one of the best people to mirror yourself after and well frankly so was Aunt Jeanette. When I was younger she would often come to visit with nana and I just LOVED it. To see them two together always brightened my day. They would joke and laugh. When I say laugh, they would have a full body tickle. I so enjoyed her time. When my nana passed 4 years ago she became my adopted nana in a way and an adopted mother to my mom and uncle. She walked with me arm and arm into the church the day of the funeral and sat with me. She comforted me and I the same for her. She held my hand tight and passed the kleenex.
When I found out I was expecting Claire I wanted her to know. I wanted her to be at my baby shower. Regardless of the fact that there was an ice storm and she really didn't feel like coming (not because she didn't want to but because she wasn't feeling well) she came anyway. I enjoyed her immensely. She went on and on about how beautiful I was and how my nana would be so proud of me. She let me know just how much my nana loved me and that she knew she was with me always. Aunt Jeanette had a way of making me feel like she treasured me. She was an AMAZING person.
So I know she is now Home. She had so many people here on earth that she loved and who loved her, But oh the LOVE she has now in Heaven is so much greater. She is no longer in pain. She is no longer suffering. She can now see everyone she has missed and everyone she hadn't. What an amazing thing to be able to see your loved ones that have passed and your loved ones on earth. I just know that her and nana are sitting and sipping on saccharin tea or ice water and having a good ole body tickle. She was an outstanding example for everyone who met her. So here's to you Aunt Jeanette! You will be greatly missed but know I am better person because you were part of my life. Love you always!
On Wednesday, May 4th I received a phone call from my mom. My mom is the world's WORST person to give sad, bad or even good news. Haha! Love her to pieces though. Anyway she started out by saying 'I just want to talk to you. I miss you! Will you please come home?'. I respond with 'Mama, what's going on? You know I love you too.' She tells me that my great aunt passed away. I know some may wonder, why is that so important to you? Well let me tell you a little about her.
She was my nana's baby sister. She was the most like her, even favored quite a bit. She had a sense of humor out of this world. She was a wonderful mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, great aunt, companion and friend. I have often said that my grandmother was one of the best people to mirror yourself after and well frankly so was Aunt Jeanette. When I was younger she would often come to visit with nana and I just LOVED it. To see them two together always brightened my day. They would joke and laugh. When I say laugh, they would have a full body tickle. I so enjoyed her time. When my nana passed 4 years ago she became my adopted nana in a way and an adopted mother to my mom and uncle. She walked with me arm and arm into the church the day of the funeral and sat with me. She comforted me and I the same for her. She held my hand tight and passed the kleenex.
When I found out I was expecting Claire I wanted her to know. I wanted her to be at my baby shower. Regardless of the fact that there was an ice storm and she really didn't feel like coming (not because she didn't want to but because she wasn't feeling well) she came anyway. I enjoyed her immensely. She went on and on about how beautiful I was and how my nana would be so proud of me. She let me know just how much my nana loved me and that she knew she was with me always. Aunt Jeanette had a way of making me feel like she treasured me. She was an AMAZING person.
So I know she is now Home. She had so many people here on earth that she loved and who loved her, But oh the LOVE she has now in Heaven is so much greater. She is no longer in pain. She is no longer suffering. She can now see everyone she has missed and everyone she hadn't. What an amazing thing to be able to see your loved ones that have passed and your loved ones on earth. I just know that her and nana are sitting and sipping on saccharin tea or ice water and having a good ole body tickle. She was an outstanding example for everyone who met her. So here's to you Aunt Jeanette! You will be greatly missed but know I am better person because you were part of my life. Love you always!
Sunday, May 1, 2011
Staggering Photos.
Some pictures we took today when we went out to survey some local damage from the tornado. This is Limestone County Alabama.
Saturday, April 30, 2011
April 27th, The Day That Will Forever Be A Part Of Me
I went to bed Tuesday night, April 26th, knowing we were going to have storms the next day. They didn't know exactly how it would go. They thought maybe it would turn more towards the north and we would miss out on a lot of activity. They thought we may have a tornado or two but nothing major. They didn't know what we were in for or the devastation the next morning would begin. I wasn't worried too much, turned the tv off, took my glasses off, kissed Claire's forehead and went to sleep.
I woke up when Mike came home from work, approximately 1:37 a.m. I got up kissed him and gave him a hug, then we both climbed in bed and went to sleep. Around 5:15 a.m. my dog Maggie came to my side of the bed to wake me up. At first I was a little aggravated because I had no idea what was ahead of me. She was anxious and was adamant that I put my glasses on and remove my earplugs. (yes I sleep with earplugs, if I didn't then I would never sleep. Light sleeper) I then heard the heavy rainfall and turned to my iPod to see if there was any bad weather. Flashing bright red was a tornado warning....WARNING....I then sat straight up in the bed, grabbed the remote, turned on the tv and they were telling people to seek shelter immediately. About that time the tornado sirens alarmed. I woke Mike and said "If I say to get the H E (double hockey sticks) up that means run." He was in a fog but soon realized what I was saying. We waited until that one cell passed and fell back asleep. The weather in a way slowed down.
I woke back up for the day at 8:30 am. The weather was still bad but no tornado threat....yet. I went to Wal-greens and picked up some things around 10:30 am. The clouds to the north were whitish grey while the clouds to the southwest were dark, dark grey. I quickly got home and told Mike the clouds to the south looked nasty. He was watching cartoons with Claire and reading a book. The sirens started sounding again. I turned the tv to a local news station to see what was going on. We were under not 1, not 2, but 4 tornado warnings! Who knew that was possible?! 3 were actually on the ground and 1 was headed right for our neck of the woods. It was a rain wrapped tornado which meant it wasn't easily visible. Mike continued to read his book without a budge. I franticly said "Mike are you hearing this?" "Hearing what?"...........He got up and got flashlights and other things rather quickly. We got Claire under the stairs, Mike went out back to look and I looked out the side window, nearest under the stairs. I saw it! Saw what you ask...the funnel cloud. It was swirling and it looked a little different from most other clouds. It was dark almost black and then the swirling part was a grey, dirt looking cone. I yelled for Mike and we all were under the stairs just holding tight. We breathed a little easier once it passed. We are now approaching 12 noon.
It seemed like the sirens NEVER turned off. If the ones here weren't going off they were going off the town over in any direction. It seemed like the tornadoes were taking the same paths over and over again. The weather died down again and we thought maybe the worst was behind us. We thought wrong.
Mike got dressed for work, called them and let them know that he would be a little late. He kissed Claire and I goodbye and left. We are now approaching 3 pm. The sirens start again. The weather system pulled itself together and became stronger and stronger. There were cells that had tornadoes at the front and back of them. The meteorologists were frantic and exhausted. Around 3:30 pm the news channel I was watching were on the phone with one of their own meteorologists. He lived near Moulton Alabama. There had already been a damning tornado in Cullman (40 miles south of here). I am sure that other damning tornadoes had hit as well. Anyway Gary (weather man) was telling them that the wind was picking up and he saw what looked like a wall cloud. They told him that they had reports that there was a tornado on the ground. Gary said he couldn't see a whole lot because there were trees in his view that were blocking the wall cloud. He continued to tell them what he saw and then you could hear the hysteria in his voice when he realized it was indeed a tornado and it was headed straight for his home. He quickly got off the phone. His colleagues were sitting there speechless. They tried time after time to reach him with no luck. They had to keep going though, sending out the other warnings all while worrying about colleagues and their own families.
During this time (all day) I was texting back and forth with my sister in law making sure they were safe and she the same with us. The same system that had hit the Moulton area and where Gary was living was headed straight for Decatur (where Mike works) and making its way north east towards Athens. My fingers, shaking, typed a message to Mike. I told him that a bad cell was headed for him and then moving this way. I wanted them to take cover. The desperation in the Meteorologists eyes told me this wasn't a storm to mess with. Mike wrote back "Oh My God". My sister in law was texting me at this point too. My electricity went out and flickered back on, she was trying to let me know where it was. I stayed upfront, while Claire was already tucked under the stairs along with our dog. Tension was high.
I looked out our back door and all was still. The sky was black and green. The clouds were moving ever so fast. I shut the door and walked back towards the living room. The pressure began to change. My ears started hurting. At this point I knew it was time to join Claire. I heard hail start slamming the house and the floors under me began to shake. I sent my parents a text "I am so scared. It is so loud", and then my cell service went out. The lights flickered again and then it was gone. I heard snapping and cracking. The sound of thunder that didn't stop and the sound of a freight train that had gathered speed was bearing down on us. I sat and prayed and cried. I prayed that God would keep my baby girl safe. I prayed he would give me the strength to keep her alive. I listened to her chatter and laugh at Maggies expense. I thought to myself 'Will I ever hear her beautiful voice or boisterous laughter again? Will I see her beautiful smile with her one dimple on the left side of her face? Would I ever get snuggles? Does she know exactly what she means to me? Was that the last goodbye kiss and hug I would ever get from Mike? Does Mike know exactly what he means to me? Would I ever hear him say "I love you."? Does my family know how much I love them?'. The questions continued as I listened, waited, worried and cried. The hail stopped. The loud roaring stopped. The shaking floor stopped. I let out a Big cry. I sat and hugged Claire and held Maggie. I was thankful they were still here. That my roof was still in tact. After what seemed like an eternity I emerged. I made Claire and Maggie stay. I looked out back, saw the fallen tree and realized that was the cracking and thud. I was grateful it went back instead of forward. I was thankful that our neighbors aren't in arms length. I was thankful that my small but monumental tree didn't hurt someone. Claire finally emerged and crawled into my lap on the couch. She fell asleep in my arms. Her breath was tickling my neck as she slept, mouth open. I watched out the windows, my only communication to the outside. I looked for colors, for wind or still. The clouds began to change again and the trees swayed and then stopped. I grabbed Claire and set her under the stairs. She continued to sleep. I watched and waited.
I tried to call out. I tried to text. Nothing. I sat and worried. Then I received a text from Mike. I couldn't reply but I knew he was safe. He texted again and again. I was sitting and waiting for him to call me. Finally after the 3 text and no response he called. I was so happy to hear his voice. I was so thankful my family, all 3 of us were safe. Yet it seemed bittersweet because I knew others weren't so lucky. My sister in law, who was home with her 2 children, one of which was sick with strep, was ok too. She saw the tornado and it missed them by not so much. This tornado started in a small town just south of Athens (about 2 miles or so) traveled northwest along Brownsferry Road, knocking down a major nuclear power plant, continued its way down Brownsferry and turned slightly north and traveled up Mooresville Rd (Athens) and crossed over Highway 72. I live right off Highway 72 slightly west of there and my in laws live off of Brownsferry Road slightly east of where it changed courses. The tornado has been ranked a high level EF4 (190 mph winds), 3/4 of a mile wide and traveled at approximately 60 mph.
When the electricity came back on (which we weren't expecting it to for days upon days) I was so relieved and exhausted. I called my mama and my daddy and asked them to please tell me it was over. I had taken pictures of the tail end of the last cell. I have never been so mentally and physically exhausted except for that time we were stuck on I30 in a snow storm. I threw Claire and myself in the shower. I opened a bottle of wine and poured a glass. After the day I had experienced that glass of wine never tasted better. I turned the tv on and watched in astonishment the footage that was arriving at the station. The weather man, Gary, lost his home but was ok. He was in the hospital with broken ribs and lacerations. Mike arrived home around 11 pm that night and I have never been happier to see him. We just sat together. He held Claire tight. We sat in quiet as we both reflected back on the surreal day we had just survived.
The damning pictures, interviews, videos.....show people a small part of what "April's Fury 2011" brought to so many people, towns, major cities and states. They are saying that most likely there were over 50 tornadoes in North Alabama alone. This is just my version and by no means is it the same as anyones else's. Everyone has a unique story and account of that day. Many people are homeless, unaccounted for, and lifeless. My story is nothing compared to any of them. Continued prayer is needed. The clean up efforts are in full swing and people are trying to do what they can before the next storm system moves in.
I will attach a video that was taken of the tornado that bore down close to home and some pics I took myself.
I woke up when Mike came home from work, approximately 1:37 a.m. I got up kissed him and gave him a hug, then we both climbed in bed and went to sleep. Around 5:15 a.m. my dog Maggie came to my side of the bed to wake me up. At first I was a little aggravated because I had no idea what was ahead of me. She was anxious and was adamant that I put my glasses on and remove my earplugs. (yes I sleep with earplugs, if I didn't then I would never sleep. Light sleeper) I then heard the heavy rainfall and turned to my iPod to see if there was any bad weather. Flashing bright red was a tornado warning....WARNING....I then sat straight up in the bed, grabbed the remote, turned on the tv and they were telling people to seek shelter immediately. About that time the tornado sirens alarmed. I woke Mike and said "If I say to get the H E (double hockey sticks) up that means run." He was in a fog but soon realized what I was saying. We waited until that one cell passed and fell back asleep. The weather in a way slowed down.
I woke back up for the day at 8:30 am. The weather was still bad but no tornado threat....yet. I went to Wal-greens and picked up some things around 10:30 am. The clouds to the north were whitish grey while the clouds to the southwest were dark, dark grey. I quickly got home and told Mike the clouds to the south looked nasty. He was watching cartoons with Claire and reading a book. The sirens started sounding again. I turned the tv to a local news station to see what was going on. We were under not 1, not 2, but 4 tornado warnings! Who knew that was possible?! 3 were actually on the ground and 1 was headed right for our neck of the woods. It was a rain wrapped tornado which meant it wasn't easily visible. Mike continued to read his book without a budge. I franticly said "Mike are you hearing this?" "Hearing what?"...........He got up and got flashlights and other things rather quickly. We got Claire under the stairs, Mike went out back to look and I looked out the side window, nearest under the stairs. I saw it! Saw what you ask...the funnel cloud. It was swirling and it looked a little different from most other clouds. It was dark almost black and then the swirling part was a grey, dirt looking cone. I yelled for Mike and we all were under the stairs just holding tight. We breathed a little easier once it passed. We are now approaching 12 noon.
It seemed like the sirens NEVER turned off. If the ones here weren't going off they were going off the town over in any direction. It seemed like the tornadoes were taking the same paths over and over again. The weather died down again and we thought maybe the worst was behind us. We thought wrong.
Mike got dressed for work, called them and let them know that he would be a little late. He kissed Claire and I goodbye and left. We are now approaching 3 pm. The sirens start again. The weather system pulled itself together and became stronger and stronger. There were cells that had tornadoes at the front and back of them. The meteorologists were frantic and exhausted. Around 3:30 pm the news channel I was watching were on the phone with one of their own meteorologists. He lived near Moulton Alabama. There had already been a damning tornado in Cullman (40 miles south of here). I am sure that other damning tornadoes had hit as well. Anyway Gary (weather man) was telling them that the wind was picking up and he saw what looked like a wall cloud. They told him that they had reports that there was a tornado on the ground. Gary said he couldn't see a whole lot because there were trees in his view that were blocking the wall cloud. He continued to tell them what he saw and then you could hear the hysteria in his voice when he realized it was indeed a tornado and it was headed straight for his home. He quickly got off the phone. His colleagues were sitting there speechless. They tried time after time to reach him with no luck. They had to keep going though, sending out the other warnings all while worrying about colleagues and their own families.
During this time (all day) I was texting back and forth with my sister in law making sure they were safe and she the same with us. The same system that had hit the Moulton area and where Gary was living was headed straight for Decatur (where Mike works) and making its way north east towards Athens. My fingers, shaking, typed a message to Mike. I told him that a bad cell was headed for him and then moving this way. I wanted them to take cover. The desperation in the Meteorologists eyes told me this wasn't a storm to mess with. Mike wrote back "Oh My God". My sister in law was texting me at this point too. My electricity went out and flickered back on, she was trying to let me know where it was. I stayed upfront, while Claire was already tucked under the stairs along with our dog. Tension was high.
I looked out our back door and all was still. The sky was black and green. The clouds were moving ever so fast. I shut the door and walked back towards the living room. The pressure began to change. My ears started hurting. At this point I knew it was time to join Claire. I heard hail start slamming the house and the floors under me began to shake. I sent my parents a text "I am so scared. It is so loud", and then my cell service went out. The lights flickered again and then it was gone. I heard snapping and cracking. The sound of thunder that didn't stop and the sound of a freight train that had gathered speed was bearing down on us. I sat and prayed and cried. I prayed that God would keep my baby girl safe. I prayed he would give me the strength to keep her alive. I listened to her chatter and laugh at Maggies expense. I thought to myself 'Will I ever hear her beautiful voice or boisterous laughter again? Will I see her beautiful smile with her one dimple on the left side of her face? Would I ever get snuggles? Does she know exactly what she means to me? Was that the last goodbye kiss and hug I would ever get from Mike? Does Mike know exactly what he means to me? Would I ever hear him say "I love you."? Does my family know how much I love them?'. The questions continued as I listened, waited, worried and cried. The hail stopped. The loud roaring stopped. The shaking floor stopped. I let out a Big cry. I sat and hugged Claire and held Maggie. I was thankful they were still here. That my roof was still in tact. After what seemed like an eternity I emerged. I made Claire and Maggie stay. I looked out back, saw the fallen tree and realized that was the cracking and thud. I was grateful it went back instead of forward. I was thankful that our neighbors aren't in arms length. I was thankful that my small but monumental tree didn't hurt someone. Claire finally emerged and crawled into my lap on the couch. She fell asleep in my arms. Her breath was tickling my neck as she slept, mouth open. I watched out the windows, my only communication to the outside. I looked for colors, for wind or still. The clouds began to change again and the trees swayed and then stopped. I grabbed Claire and set her under the stairs. She continued to sleep. I watched and waited.
I tried to call out. I tried to text. Nothing. I sat and worried. Then I received a text from Mike. I couldn't reply but I knew he was safe. He texted again and again. I was sitting and waiting for him to call me. Finally after the 3 text and no response he called. I was so happy to hear his voice. I was so thankful my family, all 3 of us were safe. Yet it seemed bittersweet because I knew others weren't so lucky. My sister in law, who was home with her 2 children, one of which was sick with strep, was ok too. She saw the tornado and it missed them by not so much. This tornado started in a small town just south of Athens (about 2 miles or so) traveled northwest along Brownsferry Road, knocking down a major nuclear power plant, continued its way down Brownsferry and turned slightly north and traveled up Mooresville Rd (Athens) and crossed over Highway 72. I live right off Highway 72 slightly west of there and my in laws live off of Brownsferry Road slightly east of where it changed courses. The tornado has been ranked a high level EF4 (190 mph winds), 3/4 of a mile wide and traveled at approximately 60 mph.
When the electricity came back on (which we weren't expecting it to for days upon days) I was so relieved and exhausted. I called my mama and my daddy and asked them to please tell me it was over. I had taken pictures of the tail end of the last cell. I have never been so mentally and physically exhausted except for that time we were stuck on I30 in a snow storm. I threw Claire and myself in the shower. I opened a bottle of wine and poured a glass. After the day I had experienced that glass of wine never tasted better. I turned the tv on and watched in astonishment the footage that was arriving at the station. The weather man, Gary, lost his home but was ok. He was in the hospital with broken ribs and lacerations. Mike arrived home around 11 pm that night and I have never been happier to see him. We just sat together. He held Claire tight. We sat in quiet as we both reflected back on the surreal day we had just survived.
The damning pictures, interviews, videos.....show people a small part of what "April's Fury 2011" brought to so many people, towns, major cities and states. They are saying that most likely there were over 50 tornadoes in North Alabama alone. This is just my version and by no means is it the same as anyones else's. Everyone has a unique story and account of that day. Many people are homeless, unaccounted for, and lifeless. My story is nothing compared to any of them. Continued prayer is needed. The clean up efforts are in full swing and people are trying to do what they can before the next storm system moves in.
I will attach a video that was taken of the tornado that bore down close to home and some pics I took myself.
Sunday, April 10, 2011
My Family Is Pretty Amazing
Mike had his first day off in 2 weeks today. We decided to fill it to the brim (no pun intended). We got up this morning, got ready and went to Wal-Mart (aka the devil or as Claire knows it 'my favorite store') purchased a couple of fishing license's and some worms. We headed out to a nice boat landing and found us a spot. Besides the snake crawling (like a bat out of hell) and the smell of icky dead fish it was a beautiful spot. We cast our lines and lost our bait time after time. I almost lost my shoe to the water (funny story whhhhaaaa had happened was) and Claire tried to push me in said icky water. Mike was getting a tad irritable because if any of you have toddlers you know how they can be (fixate on things and will worry you to death about whatever it is they are fixated on). We actually had lots of laughs at our own expense. Not to mention an older gentleman that reminded me of my grandfather warned us 'he has killed some upper amount of bad snakes in these parts.' You really can't make these things up! When we first got there there were some true to the word southern people. The one guy (I kid you not first thing out of his mouth) "Hey did you see dat somma.....He was sumthin to rekon with". Mike could not keep a straight face. I heard him from inside the car, you know the car I was thinking of staying in. Anyway it was good times. After Mike lost 2 lures and I almost caught my child with my baited hook we decided we should rap up the fishing and head to a park.
We drove to one of Athens' parks and had lunch (I had packed a picnic). We played and went down slides and walked across tar bridges and smacked our heads a time or 2. The ice cream truck came through (what a place to do business for them guys, all 'the i want ice cream mama or daddy.' Thanks.) Thank goodness our child isn't really concerned with ice cream. She isn't really concerned with eating anything when there is playing involved. We stayed for a bit then decided to come home to enjoy our own back yard. Claire and I filled her pool up with very cold water. She tossed her zebra and garfield in the water (they evidently wanted to take a dip). Mike came out in his swim trunks (I'm not sure if he thought the pool was big enough for a dip). Claire's eyes lit up. She LOVES her daddy to pieces. I truly don't think she takes one second with him for granted. She has laughed, shadowed and talked him into so many things.
We brought the party inside where daddy gave her her bath and mama cooked her pizza and cookies. She has played guitar, shaken what her mama gave her (which evidently isn't any good moves), ate herself silly, and is now sitting on the couch in daddy's lap watching Robin Hood. Yes people I am truly blessed to have one AMAZING family. I thank God for days like this and the memories he is allowing us to make with our Beautiful little girl. I can not wait for more days like today.
We drove to one of Athens' parks and had lunch (I had packed a picnic). We played and went down slides and walked across tar bridges and smacked our heads a time or 2. The ice cream truck came through (what a place to do business for them guys, all 'the i want ice cream mama or daddy.' Thanks.) Thank goodness our child isn't really concerned with ice cream. She isn't really concerned with eating anything when there is playing involved. We stayed for a bit then decided to come home to enjoy our own back yard. Claire and I filled her pool up with very cold water. She tossed her zebra and garfield in the water (they evidently wanted to take a dip). Mike came out in his swim trunks (I'm not sure if he thought the pool was big enough for a dip). Claire's eyes lit up. She LOVES her daddy to pieces. I truly don't think she takes one second with him for granted. She has laughed, shadowed and talked him into so many things.
We brought the party inside where daddy gave her her bath and mama cooked her pizza and cookies. She has played guitar, shaken what her mama gave her (which evidently isn't any good moves), ate herself silly, and is now sitting on the couch in daddy's lap watching Robin Hood. Yes people I am truly blessed to have one AMAZING family. I thank God for days like this and the memories he is allowing us to make with our Beautiful little girl. I can not wait for more days like today.
Friday, April 8, 2011
Weight Loss Journey
I have been on the road of weight loss. It's a very long and stressful road. But by golly I got this! I decided that enough fat was enough and it had to go. I want to be around for Claire when she gets older (note: I will NOT be getting older). I was tired of being winded and sweaty (much like a pig). I wanted to avoid diabetes (the curse that had its hand upon me). I wanted to be proud of my accomplishments and above all I wanted Claire to have a good role model. So I am going to post some pics from along the way. I have lost a total of 55 pounds and counting. The first one I am third from right trying to hide. That was taken July of 2010. The last few are current and taken within the past week. No I am not starving myself and no I am not doing anything illegal. There have been rumors I am depressed or doing something that is illegal. Obviously they don't know me because when I am depressed I stuff my face with anything I can put my hands on, mainly sweets. I am happy and in a good spot so the weight is coming off. So say what you will about me but one thing you cant say is that i am obese!!!
A World Of Selfishness
Lately I have noticed I get more annoyed with people. Not so much people in general but by their actions. When did people become so selfish? When did their feelings become more important than say anyone else's? Now I am not saying that your feelings, your spouses feelings or theirs don't matter. I'm simply saying that you are not the only person on the planet that has feelings. You are entitled to your feelings and so am I. To think that someone else doesn't get hurt by your words or actions is really foolish of you or me. But how will someone know if you are upset if you don't tell them? I'm often victim of this. I will not say anything then I get more and more angry and then resentful (very deadly combo) or I will stew on it for a bit then approach the situation from a very forgiving perspective. Forgiving in that I forgive myself for being such an awful person or forgiving you if you have unintentionally hurt me. There are times that I don't say things out of respect for someone I love. I have learned lately that some people don't operate in this manner. They have no regard for what's right, for others feelings, or simply, respect.
When did people become so selfish? Or is ignorance to blame? Is it a new epidemic? Why do some people need so much attention to stroke their own ego's when really all that focus should go towards other things? Why is it when people are jealous whey are hurtful? Why should I consider your feelings when you never consider mine? Why should I always be the one that reaches out in order to have a relationship with someone?
Relationships should never be that hard. You should never sell yourself short in order to please other people. If I am to accept you for who you are shouldn't you accept me for who I am? Why am I the only person that is suppose to extend my hand? Because unless there is another extended hand my arm will eventually get tired and drop. Everyone has things going on in their life, everyone is busy but unless you make the time then there will be no time. People are human, they make mistakes. All of us do! People seem to forget the mistakes they have made when they decide to condemn the next person. I am not omitted from these things. If you make a mistake own it, and apologize. Yes you put yourself out there but what an amazing achievement. I'm sure you will sleep better too. I know it is much easier to just blame it on someone else but that's Satan tapping on your shoulder. Thank God, Jesus died for all of our sins because we ARE human.
My child is at the point in her life where she is impressionable. She learns from everyone. As parents Mike and I have decided to surround her with people who are real. What does real mean? Well, it is people who love, care, cherish, enjoy, make time for her, have feelings, play, tolerate, accept, are kind, thoughtful and forgiving. I am a work in progress my self. I need to work on a lot of these things but one thing I won't work on is an one extended hand relationships. Obviously you are the one wanting the relationship not them. In my book there is no excuse for ignoring your child, children or grandchildren, regardless the circumstance. One thing I have learned since becoming a parent is that she is the MOST important thing in my life. Yes I love Mike. I truly believe he is my soul mate but as we all know love can come and go. One thing that will NEVER change is that I am Claire's mother and Mike is Claire's father. She is our main priority all of our living life. Why? Because we chose as two loving people to have her. She did not ask us to bring her into this world. She should never be ignored because of our selfish desires. You can chose to love someone as a partner but you can never deny blood and if you do then shame on you. You may not like what they do and you might not like how they act but they are still your conscious decision to have, raise and love regardless of age.
So right now maybe I should be selfish. We are making memories with our child and if you want to be involved then great but if not (if you are too busy or angry) then that's fine too. Just don't expect her to know you or don't get jealous of the ones that do have the time. I will not beg you to have that relationship or change who I am to accommodate you. A card at birthday's, an occasional phone call or email is NOT a relationship neither is public domains.
Tomorrow is a new day and I may have a different outlook but for now this is where I am standing. If you extend your arm I may return the favor.
When did people become so selfish? Or is ignorance to blame? Is it a new epidemic? Why do some people need so much attention to stroke their own ego's when really all that focus should go towards other things? Why is it when people are jealous whey are hurtful? Why should I consider your feelings when you never consider mine? Why should I always be the one that reaches out in order to have a relationship with someone?
Relationships should never be that hard. You should never sell yourself short in order to please other people. If I am to accept you for who you are shouldn't you accept me for who I am? Why am I the only person that is suppose to extend my hand? Because unless there is another extended hand my arm will eventually get tired and drop. Everyone has things going on in their life, everyone is busy but unless you make the time then there will be no time. People are human, they make mistakes. All of us do! People seem to forget the mistakes they have made when they decide to condemn the next person. I am not omitted from these things. If you make a mistake own it, and apologize. Yes you put yourself out there but what an amazing achievement. I'm sure you will sleep better too. I know it is much easier to just blame it on someone else but that's Satan tapping on your shoulder. Thank God, Jesus died for all of our sins because we ARE human.
My child is at the point in her life where she is impressionable. She learns from everyone. As parents Mike and I have decided to surround her with people who are real. What does real mean? Well, it is people who love, care, cherish, enjoy, make time for her, have feelings, play, tolerate, accept, are kind, thoughtful and forgiving. I am a work in progress my self. I need to work on a lot of these things but one thing I won't work on is an one extended hand relationships. Obviously you are the one wanting the relationship not them. In my book there is no excuse for ignoring your child, children or grandchildren, regardless the circumstance. One thing I have learned since becoming a parent is that she is the MOST important thing in my life. Yes I love Mike. I truly believe he is my soul mate but as we all know love can come and go. One thing that will NEVER change is that I am Claire's mother and Mike is Claire's father. She is our main priority all of our living life. Why? Because we chose as two loving people to have her. She did not ask us to bring her into this world. She should never be ignored because of our selfish desires. You can chose to love someone as a partner but you can never deny blood and if you do then shame on you. You may not like what they do and you might not like how they act but they are still your conscious decision to have, raise and love regardless of age.
So right now maybe I should be selfish. We are making memories with our child and if you want to be involved then great but if not (if you are too busy or angry) then that's fine too. Just don't expect her to know you or don't get jealous of the ones that do have the time. I will not beg you to have that relationship or change who I am to accommodate you. A card at birthday's, an occasional phone call or email is NOT a relationship neither is public domains.
Tomorrow is a new day and I may have a different outlook but for now this is where I am standing. If you extend your arm I may return the favor.
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Potty Training 101
After a very long weekend of trying to get Claire to even sit on her toilet, Monday morning she woke up with a totally new attitude. She used her potty all day long!! I am super proud of her! So far today she has used her potty as well. So (knock on wood) I have been working on her for a week now and it seems like she is finally getting the concept. She even woke us up in the middle of the night so she could use her potty. I think mama's sanity just may stay in tact! I know it's silly but I took pictures and sent them to Mike of her using her potty. Mike told me last night that he never dreamed he would be so excited to get pictures of poo in a toilet. HAHA! It's the little things in life that makes a mama or daddy proud! She so stinking cute when she goes and stands up yelling "I did it. I did it.". She jumps up and down and waves her hands around. She then 'helps' flush her waste. She has stickers galore now that she puts on her calendar and shows her daddy proudly when he gets home. I even make a big commotion when she goes while on the phone. I just say "excuse me for a second.", set the phone down and clap, jump up and down, and yell. Who cares what people think right? Sorry to disappoint you but I do NOT have turrets. LOL (Side note and may be a little tmi so cover your eyes if you wish. When Claire did see her poo for the first time she gagged, then caught a whiff and gagged again. I couldn't help but laugh and tell her to walk away. I then stated "gross huh".)
Claire and I took Maggie (our pug) to the vet (doctor) yesterday for her annual. That was an event in itself. A 2 year old who insist on holding the leash and a pug who desperately wants to run away from her. Maggie is all of 14 pounds and thinks she is a huge, bad to the bone 50 pound dog. For someone that is so little she is very aggressive with other dogs. Maggie is in good health and the Vet was super happy with her and made the statement "Now that's what a pug is suppose to look like, not 25 pounds and fat.". I think I will attach a picture of my Maggie Lou and maybe one of Claire Bear too. :)
Claire and I took Maggie (our pug) to the vet (doctor) yesterday for her annual. That was an event in itself. A 2 year old who insist on holding the leash and a pug who desperately wants to run away from her. Maggie is all of 14 pounds and thinks she is a huge, bad to the bone 50 pound dog. For someone that is so little she is very aggressive with other dogs. Maggie is in good health and the Vet was super happy with her and made the statement "Now that's what a pug is suppose to look like, not 25 pounds and fat.". I think I will attach a picture of my Maggie Lou and maybe one of Claire Bear too. :)
Saturday, January 22, 2011
Alabama Whirlwind
So this week has been eventful on many different accounts. Lets start from last weekend. My sister and brother-in-law came up to see us. It was still very cold, icy and snowy which meant we couldn't do a whole lot. We had a great visit though, no nastiness in weather will ever stop that.
Mike had an interview within his company for a new position. He is currently an automation specialist (fancy words huh). He interviewed for a shift production manager. He hadn't thought about getting back into management yet but when the plant manager approached him and very adamantly requested him to apply for the job he very well couldn't turn them down. He applied for it a few weeks back and once we got back from California they wanted to set up his interview. Fast forward to Monday, he was extremely nervous, a complete man disaster of emotions. Anyway I told him that he would do wonderful, he was the man for the job, that they already liked him, and for him to just be himself. He comes back with "But honey you just don't know how goofy I am." to which I replied "Honey I know just how goofy you are and that makes me love you more. You have to give me more credit than that." The interview was over an hour and he had to sit in front of a panel of 8 managers. Now if that isn't scary I don't know what it. He called me on his way home and said he thought it went good but he wasn't for sure. There were others they had to interview. He was stressed all evening and went over every little detail, I don't know how many times, when I finally said "Mike, you did the best you could do and just wait to see what they thought before you over analyze it." They had their final interview with a guy on Tuesday and I think before the guy even got out of the parking lot Mike was hearing "Congratulations! You are going to get a job offer soon.". Mike was taken aback. Well on Thursday the Plant Manager called him into his office and handed him the job offer personally. Mike said they talked for a good while and Mike made him tell him that he was the one for the job. (Way to try to stroke that ego. LOL) So Mike and I sat down and talked about it, sort of. There are a LOT of positives to the position but there are also a good bit of negatives. I couldn't see past the negatives and Mike couldn't see past the positives. I think thats one reason we fit well together, now if he would just listen to me things would be great. Haha! Don't get me wrong I'm not always into the negatives, I've always been glass half full type of gal but our life was finally on track for the first time in years and I didn't want that to change. I'm a sociable creature of habit. Mike's a hermit of change, lots and lots of change. He went back to work on Friday and made a counter offer (come on you know you have to haggle) and they came back with another. They agreed and Mike took the offer. I was not real happy because like I said things will change, for the better I'm not guaranteed, for the worse eh lets hope not. Mike will be working a lot, something I am not a fan of, and when I say a lot I mean 8 days a week. I've been promised that it will not be a permanent thing but that after he gets things straightened out it will be better. Well when will that be you ask, WE DON"T KNOW. He will be working 2nd shift which is 3-11 but will most likely be more than that which means him getting home after midnight. YUCK, YUCK, AND YUCK! Mike having a gratifying job he is proud of, priceless. He wants a challenge, he craves a challenge, he takes it on, head on, and says 'bring it'. One of the things that I was reminded yesterday by a wonderful friend is that I need to really start to rely on my friends more and to put situations in God's hands and to quit stressing so much. That I am not alone. Anyway I will keep you all posted on the new job fight when it starts on February 2nd.
What has mama done this week you ask. Well I have been potty training or at least attempting to potty train my child. The first day was straight up horrible! Horrible I tell you!! Wanted to say eff it stay in diapers all your life but I will put you in a home. Haha! Not really but you know. The second day was so much better. She at least tried unlike day one. The next day or as I refer to it "Emotional wreck day" was wobbly at first. She woke up very emotional about the whole thing. I can understand I mean she has never had to worry about using the bathroom. SHe has never had to pay attention to the urge or having to go to a certain spot to go. So we worked through it and after a time out she decided 'maybe this woman is serious' and she started using the bathroom. But every day it's like starting again. Reminding her, taking her, threatening (not terrible threats though, I'm not that mean, if anything I'm very soft) and lots of praise and stickers to add to her book, she gets it by the end of the day. Then the next day we start again. People keep promising me that she will get it one day. Really? Yeah well how does mama's sanity stay in tact? Huh? Huh? Huh? Yeah that's what I thought.
We once again got snow this past week. Really, really sick of the @%^*& snow!! You hear me mother nature?? LOL! And guess what it is in the forecast for this next week. Phooey on you nature, just phooey! I am excited though for this coming weekend. Mike, Claire and I will head to Pigeon Forge, Tennessee along with my parents and Seneca and Brad (the sister and her mate) for a long, relaxing, cold weekend! Woohooooo!!! Can't wait! We shall take loads of pictures as usual. (Side note: We already have a ton of film to develop, why would we add to that?) I will be going to Georgia for a few days in February and then I will head back down in March to see one of my oldest and dearest friends. She will be home from England for a visit. I will finally get to meet her beautiful baby boys and she will get to meet my Claire. YAY!!!
That is enough for now I reckon. Don't want to bore you all! Thanks for stopping by and keeping up with the Keene's! I'll add a little funny video from a lady in the ATL. California people, quit rubbing it in our faces. K thanks!
Mike had an interview within his company for a new position. He is currently an automation specialist (fancy words huh). He interviewed for a shift production manager. He hadn't thought about getting back into management yet but when the plant manager approached him and very adamantly requested him to apply for the job he very well couldn't turn them down. He applied for it a few weeks back and once we got back from California they wanted to set up his interview. Fast forward to Monday, he was extremely nervous, a complete man disaster of emotions. Anyway I told him that he would do wonderful, he was the man for the job, that they already liked him, and for him to just be himself. He comes back with "But honey you just don't know how goofy I am." to which I replied "Honey I know just how goofy you are and that makes me love you more. You have to give me more credit than that." The interview was over an hour and he had to sit in front of a panel of 8 managers. Now if that isn't scary I don't know what it. He called me on his way home and said he thought it went good but he wasn't for sure. There were others they had to interview. He was stressed all evening and went over every little detail, I don't know how many times, when I finally said "Mike, you did the best you could do and just wait to see what they thought before you over analyze it." They had their final interview with a guy on Tuesday and I think before the guy even got out of the parking lot Mike was hearing "Congratulations! You are going to get a job offer soon.". Mike was taken aback. Well on Thursday the Plant Manager called him into his office and handed him the job offer personally. Mike said they talked for a good while and Mike made him tell him that he was the one for the job. (Way to try to stroke that ego. LOL) So Mike and I sat down and talked about it, sort of. There are a LOT of positives to the position but there are also a good bit of negatives. I couldn't see past the negatives and Mike couldn't see past the positives. I think thats one reason we fit well together, now if he would just listen to me things would be great. Haha! Don't get me wrong I'm not always into the negatives, I've always been glass half full type of gal but our life was finally on track for the first time in years and I didn't want that to change. I'm a sociable creature of habit. Mike's a hermit of change, lots and lots of change. He went back to work on Friday and made a counter offer (come on you know you have to haggle) and they came back with another. They agreed and Mike took the offer. I was not real happy because like I said things will change, for the better I'm not guaranteed, for the worse eh lets hope not. Mike will be working a lot, something I am not a fan of, and when I say a lot I mean 8 days a week. I've been promised that it will not be a permanent thing but that after he gets things straightened out it will be better. Well when will that be you ask, WE DON"T KNOW. He will be working 2nd shift which is 3-11 but will most likely be more than that which means him getting home after midnight. YUCK, YUCK, AND YUCK! Mike having a gratifying job he is proud of, priceless. He wants a challenge, he craves a challenge, he takes it on, head on, and says 'bring it'. One of the things that I was reminded yesterday by a wonderful friend is that I need to really start to rely on my friends more and to put situations in God's hands and to quit stressing so much. That I am not alone. Anyway I will keep you all posted on the new job fight when it starts on February 2nd.
What has mama done this week you ask. Well I have been potty training or at least attempting to potty train my child. The first day was straight up horrible! Horrible I tell you!! Wanted to say eff it stay in diapers all your life but I will put you in a home. Haha! Not really but you know. The second day was so much better. She at least tried unlike day one. The next day or as I refer to it "Emotional wreck day" was wobbly at first. She woke up very emotional about the whole thing. I can understand I mean she has never had to worry about using the bathroom. SHe has never had to pay attention to the urge or having to go to a certain spot to go. So we worked through it and after a time out she decided 'maybe this woman is serious' and she started using the bathroom. But every day it's like starting again. Reminding her, taking her, threatening (not terrible threats though, I'm not that mean, if anything I'm very soft) and lots of praise and stickers to add to her book, she gets it by the end of the day. Then the next day we start again. People keep promising me that she will get it one day. Really? Yeah well how does mama's sanity stay in tact? Huh? Huh? Huh? Yeah that's what I thought.
We once again got snow this past week. Really, really sick of the @%^*& snow!! You hear me mother nature?? LOL! And guess what it is in the forecast for this next week. Phooey on you nature, just phooey! I am excited though for this coming weekend. Mike, Claire and I will head to Pigeon Forge, Tennessee along with my parents and Seneca and Brad (the sister and her mate) for a long, relaxing, cold weekend! Woohooooo!!! Can't wait! We shall take loads of pictures as usual. (Side note: We already have a ton of film to develop, why would we add to that?) I will be going to Georgia for a few days in February and then I will head back down in March to see one of my oldest and dearest friends. She will be home from England for a visit. I will finally get to meet her beautiful baby boys and she will get to meet my Claire. YAY!!!
That is enough for now I reckon. Don't want to bore you all! Thanks for stopping by and keeping up with the Keene's! I'll add a little funny video from a lady in the ATL. California people, quit rubbing it in our faces. K thanks!
Monday, January 17, 2011
Ok so I decided to Keep up with the Kardashians,
So I haven't blogged in a LONG while. I decide since most of Mike's cousins aka family are blogging maybe we should too, so here goes.
On December 29th we found out that Mike's grandmother passed away. Broke Mike's heart and to be honest broke mine as well. Yes I didn't know her, Yes she may have had issues, Yes she was old but hey she meant the world to me because she meant the world to Mike. Ok so Mike hasn't seen her in decade(s) but we at least tried to keep her in the loop and up to date. Ok yeah he didn't talk to her or phone her but Heck yeah he thought about her and daily. He wrote her and we sent pictures. Family is very very important to me and I want to make sure it is important to Mike. If that means him being uncomfortable and seeing people he hasn't seen in years so be it! When Mike found out for some reason he thought solo. He thought I will travel the ends of the U.S. alone or on train, or plane alone. Well to be honest I was rather hurt. I wanted to be there! I wanted him to know I cared! I wanted him to know I loved him! That I was in fact part of him!!!!! So I was very quiet and distant. I was waiting on him to be forthcoming and for him to realize that yes I was part of him. Didn't take him long! Then all of a sudden "I want to go to my grandma's funeral and I want you and CLaire there".....Well it's about time Mister! Anyway the very next day we started out, first Dallas then New mexico and next stop California.
We entered California and Mike's face lit up. To be honest I don't even think we were in Cali yet and we had had to stop at Carls Jr. (ok the burger was ok but I wasn't missing much) Then I remember seeing a sign saying LA was 3 hours away. I noticed a HUGE orange glow and reported "what's that?". Mike replied "that'd be LA". my response "you're sh*!TEN me". Soon after we were in "La". Not for real just for play play. Anyhoooo. We were driving in the suburbs and Claire decide after 2 and a half days she was done. Yes folks she took a dump and thats how she felt about the matter. 45 minutes later we were at the arrival according to Google GPS. (What would we do without phones?) The next few days we learned the area and I just loved the people I was around and seeing Mike was amazing. On Thursday January (blur blur blur) there was the viewing/service. I met many of Mike's cousins, aunts and uncles. I tried my best to keep quiet since I AM SOUTHERN and have an Apparent accent. (how embarrassing?) I just can't contain myself though! I LOVE TO TALK!! Thank Goodness for Claire who being 2 was tired of it all! Anyway....
What A GREAT service!! I just know that Grandma Janice would have loved it all! Yes I had to remove myself and the young one to walk the halls but heck I heard it over loud speaker. I wanted to be there for Mike.I wanted him to know that I loved him and that Claire loved him. That he means the world to us and in turn Grandma Janice meant and means the world to us!!! I remember leaving the parking lot trying to help Ricki and her saying "I love your accent. I know you must be the sweetest person ever."...Thinking to myself "I'm sure the entire family thinks I am a Hillbilly with absolutely no upbringing". Mike of course told me to stop. "Honey you are you and I absolutely love you for it." That makes me feel good till we hit the burial site. Then i hear your accent is lovely. Ok so I know, I know I have one but I am very self conscious of it. Heavens to betsey I am from south, and when I say south I mean south, Georgia, 1 redlight people. My parents of course wanted and meant for me to have the best upbringing. They made sure my sister and I had an education, so it was important that they all saw it as well. Ricki made sure I was comfortable and Uncle Mark (he was awesome). He hugged me and said "It was so nice to meet you. I have heard sooo much about you."... So yes people this southern girl remembers it all!!
Anyway I shall keep this up to date and you all informed. Thanks for reading.
On December 29th we found out that Mike's grandmother passed away. Broke Mike's heart and to be honest broke mine as well. Yes I didn't know her, Yes she may have had issues, Yes she was old but hey she meant the world to me because she meant the world to Mike. Ok so Mike hasn't seen her in decade(s) but we at least tried to keep her in the loop and up to date. Ok yeah he didn't talk to her or phone her but Heck yeah he thought about her and daily. He wrote her and we sent pictures. Family is very very important to me and I want to make sure it is important to Mike. If that means him being uncomfortable and seeing people he hasn't seen in years so be it! When Mike found out for some reason he thought solo. He thought I will travel the ends of the U.S. alone or on train, or plane alone. Well to be honest I was rather hurt. I wanted to be there! I wanted him to know I cared! I wanted him to know I loved him! That I was in fact part of him!!!!! So I was very quiet and distant. I was waiting on him to be forthcoming and for him to realize that yes I was part of him. Didn't take him long! Then all of a sudden "I want to go to my grandma's funeral and I want you and CLaire there".....Well it's about time Mister! Anyway the very next day we started out, first Dallas then New mexico and next stop California.
We entered California and Mike's face lit up. To be honest I don't even think we were in Cali yet and we had had to stop at Carls Jr. (ok the burger was ok but I wasn't missing much) Then I remember seeing a sign saying LA was 3 hours away. I noticed a HUGE orange glow and reported "what's that?". Mike replied "that'd be LA". my response "you're sh*!TEN me". Soon after we were in "La". Not for real just for play play. Anyhoooo. We were driving in the suburbs and Claire decide after 2 and a half days she was done. Yes folks she took a dump and thats how she felt about the matter. 45 minutes later we were at the arrival according to Google GPS. (What would we do without phones?) The next few days we learned the area and I just loved the people I was around and seeing Mike was amazing. On Thursday January (blur blur blur) there was the viewing/service. I met many of Mike's cousins, aunts and uncles. I tried my best to keep quiet since I AM SOUTHERN and have an Apparent accent. (how embarrassing?) I just can't contain myself though! I LOVE TO TALK!! Thank Goodness for Claire who being 2 was tired of it all! Anyway....
What A GREAT service!! I just know that Grandma Janice would have loved it all! Yes I had to remove myself and the young one to walk the halls but heck I heard it over loud speaker. I wanted to be there for Mike.I wanted him to know that I loved him and that Claire loved him. That he means the world to us and in turn Grandma Janice meant and means the world to us!!! I remember leaving the parking lot trying to help Ricki and her saying "I love your accent. I know you must be the sweetest person ever."...Thinking to myself "I'm sure the entire family thinks I am a Hillbilly with absolutely no upbringing". Mike of course told me to stop. "Honey you are you and I absolutely love you for it." That makes me feel good till we hit the burial site. Then i hear your accent is lovely. Ok so I know, I know I have one but I am very self conscious of it. Heavens to betsey I am from south, and when I say south I mean south, Georgia, 1 redlight people. My parents of course wanted and meant for me to have the best upbringing. They made sure my sister and I had an education, so it was important that they all saw it as well. Ricki made sure I was comfortable and Uncle Mark (he was awesome). He hugged me and said "It was so nice to meet you. I have heard sooo much about you."... So yes people this southern girl remembers it all!!
Anyway I shall keep this up to date and you all informed. Thanks for reading.
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