tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8831521963063588482024-02-07T15:23:24.611-08:00Half A Century Already? Holy Crap!Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00778834300572804746noreply@blogger.comBlogger68125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883152196306358848.post-32402323437910432472014-10-01T18:05:00.003-07:002014-10-01T18:06:05.602-07:00I still ain't even skeered!I've been out of work for 2 and a half weeks now.<br />
I have to back up and admit to some fear rearing its head in the first week without work. I know, I know, God's got my back but my stupid sinful self will get in the way.<br />
I have had a couple of phone interviews, an in- person interview that went very poorly ( yeah, some age-ism and racism on that company's part) but God didn't want me at that job anyway. How do I know? Because I prayed on my way to the interview and told God that it was all in His hands and I would obey and accept His commands. No job at Title Max for me.....<br />
So, today I went back up to Griffin to do the drug test for a job at 1st Franklin Financial. The company also has to do a criminal background check on me. If I land this job, it will be a pay cut for me, but if this is a happy office and I can spend the next 3 years in a happy place, then God has certainly cared for me and shown me His love and care.<br />
I give all the glory to Sovereign God!<br />
<br />Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00778834300572804746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883152196306358848.post-74872524962287623232014-09-13T03:15:00.000-07:002014-09-13T03:15:37.261-07:00Wow, what a relief! And I ain't even skeered!I've been working at yet another newspaper for 6 years now. I sell advertising. Yeah. In 2014. For 2 weekly small-town newspapers. Yeah. So.<br />
It's been a struggle since I walked in the door there.<br />
The ad designer put me through the wringer from the beginning. Unfriendly, asking a million questions when the info was plainly there, calling me out in front of the other employees, giving me wrong stuff and misspelling words purposefully. I had to ask the publisher to call a meeting to give us a pep talk, that all of us needed to work together to help each other to bring revenue in, in order to keep our jobs.<br />
Then I continued to battle my way through each day there.<br />
Sure, it got better. I was able to joke and laugh, but I don't think I ever fully trusted anyone except Angela- the ad designer who put me through hell at the beginning- and Pam, who does page layout and classified ads.<br />
Recently, my disease has flared up and I've been super sick, but have managed to come in each day to do my job. It's been very hard, but I've managed. I even worked on Wednesday because Angela left us to return to school and we need all hands on deck to have 2 persons on staff on Wednesday. Mind you, I'm completely commission so this results in no extra pay for me, I'm just trying to do my share & to be a team player.<br />
We have a writer there named Sherri. She's an extremely difficult coworker. A Wiccan with a hugely negative attitude, and a loud opinionated voice that drones on, given half a chance.<br />
Yesterday, trying to get an answer for a customer on something I had forwarded to her- it was editorial- she yelled at me in front of the office.<br />
I packed up my daily work stuff and left. I sent an email to most of the staff, telling them I feel devalued and embarrassed by that rude reaction. I think I finally reached my breaking point.<br />
Laura did call me and I explained as best I could, in my emotional state, what happened & how I've spent all these years battling for revenue & for respect, and that I feel that I'm done.<br />
She's asking me to give myself some breathing room and to think this over.<br />
Gil, of course, is his usual supportive self. He seems to feel that I will go back to work there, but thinks I should take the entire week off to rest and regroup, and let the people at the Herald Gazette work on without me.<br />
I wish to find another job, that's what I wish.Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00778834300572804746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883152196306358848.post-83640666115212172722014-02-11T03:57:00.004-08:002014-02-11T03:57:41.460-08:00Empty Nest! Yeah! Due to increasing discontent in our home among all 3 of it's residents( the Mister, Yours Truly, and the Grown Son), said grown son found himself a place he can afford and flew the nest.<br />
It was way past time for this to happen. This house was like an armed camp. We were so disgusted with each other. Michael was critical of his Dad & I, and we returned the sentiment. This was not a home I wanted to return to each day after work. An all 'round bad situation.<br />
Michael has been out of the house for about 2 weeks now. We get along just fine with him. This is just what this family needed.<br />
Grown children really shouldn't live at home.<br />
Period.<br />
<br />
<br />Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00778834300572804746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883152196306358848.post-53413728358731384762014-01-06T03:11:00.000-08:002014-01-06T03:11:11.384-08:00A new year!<br />
It's 2014 and while I wish I had some new and interesting thoughts and ideas, I seem to be running on empty.<br />
I had another run of illness recently. This one was triggered by... What else? THE JOB AGAIN. This time our local football team was poised at a run for State Champions in their division and so for 3 weeks running, I had to produce last minute "Go, Trojans!" pages. What a scramble that was.<br />
Then Laura determined that the yearly Christmas & New Year's editions were not pulling in the revenue she wanted so I worked like a freakin fool to pull ads from... Who? This town is like a ghost town.<br />
In the meantime, I have had zero feedback on my efforts.<br />
I really thought that the Geiger's may have been concerned for their financial health, I was quite worried, but hey! All is fine!<br />
They took a week vacation to Pasadena CA with their daughters so they could see the sights and go to the Rose Bowl Parade! Nice for them!<br />
I think the reason I'm a bit unkind about this is because, in light of their vacation, my paycheck was just an "estimated" paycheck. They had a vacation to take after all. I estimate my check was about $300 short, and frankly, I'm not convinced that I will see that money on this week's check.<br />
Also, for our Christmas party, we got to provide the food! What a wonderful thank you from a company that hasn't given it's employees raises in at least 10 years.<br />
So while my disease went into total overdrive and I had to go on a course of steroids in order to cut the inflammation, I did provide my food donation, via Michael Slegl Delivery Service, and I'm afraid I missed the " Christmas Party".<br />
Due to the steroids, I stopped sleeping for a period of time and went into a tailspin.<br />
All this for money. Not even my money.....<br />
So, 2013's ending & 2014's start were not what one hopes for. But once again, I've joined a gym, and am looking to get my health back. I've been faithful with gym attendance and that's my goal.<br />
Of course my walk with God is the other big goal.<br />
And let's do a quick count down, shall we?<br />
I think I have to go to work about 620 more times.... Yay!<br />
So, again, this is not a positive post, but it is a truthful post.<br />
I pray for God's mercy while I live on this hard earth. After all, "this is not my home. I'm just passing through."<br />
<br />
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<br />Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00778834300572804746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883152196306358848.post-78407899733616091392013-11-16T05:48:00.001-08:002013-11-16T05:48:55.642-08:00Walking with God- and veering off His path.I finally came here again, knowing it's been too long since I last wrote.<br />
I read my last little post and realized, it's been EXACTLY the right amount of time!<br />
Here's why:<br />
I was in a bad frame of mind on that last post. I complained, I pointed fingers..... Generally, this Christian wasn't......<br />
Now, here's the deal. I pray every day. I ask God to let me "wear Jesus" so I show others by example and so that I'm following the Lord's Great Commandment- " Love The Lord your God with all your heart and with all your mind and with all your soul". This is the first commandment. And the second is like it: "Love your neighbor as yourself." Matthew 22:37-39. NIV<br />
Whew, right? I've been falling far far short. I pray every day and ask God this same thing... Let me wear Jesus today. And it's taken my sinful self a long time, but I'm moving in the right direction.<br />
I'm not patting myself on the back by any means. Any forward progress being made here is the result of The Holy Spirit working in me. Not anything I've done on my own, believe that. Without God, I'm nothing.<br />
I'm getting along with the coworkers. I'm ashamed of my previous post. But I will not take it down. Let it serve as a reminder to me.<br />
To my friends and family who think they know Jesus, I hope you are traveling the same way I am. This is such joy. It's also such hard work. We fall so far short, it's a wonder God can stomach us sometimes. But that's the beauty of God's love for us. It's so gigantic we cannot conceive it.<br />
And aren't we blessed?<br />
Pick up your Bible or a devotional book. Do it daily. It helps put "you" aside and helps you focus yourself. Read a little. Think on it. Pray. Pray. Pray some more.<br />
Then, the hard part. Try to wear it. You'll fail, you'll be ashamed, you'll ask God's forgiveness.<br />
The next day, do it all over again. Keep trying.<br />
It's hard, it's a comfort, it's what we're here for.<br />
God bless us all, please.<br />
<br />
<br />Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00778834300572804746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883152196306358848.post-68575458129060296052013-08-28T05:16:00.001-07:002014-09-13T03:18:34.853-07:00Work is crap.Sigh. My coworkers. What do I do? I can't kill them.<br />
Here's my dilemma.<br />
This project was for our local football team.<br />
First and foremost, my job is to sell ads to bring in revenue. So I try to come up with projects that will generate interest for both the readership and the potential advertisers.<br />
I initially was going to publish this project on Sept. 24, after the Buggy Days edition, but Walter decided that we should publish in time for the first home game on Sept. 30. Panic mode ensues....<br />
I had to rush to produce this, and I mean REALLY rush. I lost sleep, I worried, I really physically tore myself up over this.<br />
The week prior to publication, when I questioned the distribution at the first game, I begin running into problems. There's nobody to distribute it, there's no overrun ordered from the printer..... Etc, etc.<br />
I cannot believe all this.....<br />
I nearly walked off the job over this mess.<br />
Our joke of an "office manager", who is totally ineffective, has her usual "well, I don't know" attitude about the entire matter. ( Rachel, my one & only work buddy there, asked me the other day, "Why do you even bother to ask her questions?". Good point......)<br />
So, yesterday Gil helped me to get the papers delivered, thank goodness, or I never would have managed.<br />
Then I went back to the newspaper at 4:20 pm, where, all by myself, I took 100 newspapers apart so I would have the B section to take over to Shannon Jett from the Gridiron Club. She will have some helpers to pass out the section (again, Walter's idea) so that part of the job is handled, no thanks to anyone else there at that job.<br />
Oh, while Missy was at the post office and Tasha was on the phone, the other line rang so I had to stop pulling papers apart so I could answer the phone. See, Sherri and Nolan apparently cannot be bothered.<br />
All this brings me back to the day 2 years ago, I came back to work after knee surgery and Missy stood outside chatting to a passerby while I struggled with my crutches to load newspapers into my car..... I feel like that single act sums up this particular work environment in a nutshell.<br />
So, as mentioned prior, I have 4.5 years to work. And I don't know if this is the place to do it since this is a collection of self-serving people.<br />
I've asked God to give me an answer to this. However, I only asked Him once.<br />
I need to pray for guidance over this daily. I need to then listen to Him.<br />
Truth be told, I am probably asking God to find me another job and drop in right in my lap. He could certainly do it, but I don't feel this is what I should expect . Although, that would be really nice, God.... Just kidding. Sort of....<br />
I know what to do. Quit fighting what I can't win. Ask God for His assistance and guidance. And be obedient to Him.<br />
Y'all pray for me too, please?Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00778834300572804746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883152196306358848.post-62033670209125021782013-08-23T04:11:00.000-07:002013-08-23T04:11:13.752-07:00Looking Toward the FutureSo, it seems that my job is getting more difficult for me to perform. Am I getting older, therefore having trouble doing my tasks? Am I burning out?<br />
Burn out seems the more likely answer.<br />
I sell advertising in a hometown newspaper.<br />
I keep hearing " I get zero response from advertising in your paper". Well......<br />
I'm 58.5 years old. I have a chronic health condition. I have other interests I'd like to explore.<br />
Hello! Judge Judy in the afternoon! Bike riding around town! Seeing other places in Georgia by car! Flying to other countries! Time to take an adult continuing education class at the local college!<br />
Starting an online luxury goods business!<br />
This cannot be how I will end my days, in a job I dread....<br />
So, Gil stuck his head in my sitting room the other night and said to me, " I think you should retire at 62, start collecting your Social Security, enjoy the next 5 years while waiting for me to finish working, then we' re outta here."<br />
I may only get up 840 more times to go in to a job I dread.<br />
That "light at the end" seems a bit faint at this point. But I know it's out there.<br />
Cool!<br />
<br />
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<br />Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00778834300572804746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883152196306358848.post-42083715227769821332013-08-12T04:14:00.000-07:002013-08-12T04:14:25.229-07:00Finally! (Hey, where ya' been.) Sigh.<br />
It's been a long time....<br />
Let's recap:<br />
I've had another knee surgery. This one seems to be more successful. Note to self- nothing good medically comes out of Griffin, GA. Drive another 20 miles and use a better doctor.<br />
My exercise life is poor. I joined a gym/studio but find that getting away from my job to attend a class is very hit and miss. Consequently, I'm at least 15 lbs. heavier than I like to be. My clothing is tight. I don't like this one bit.<br />
More businesses in town have closed. If this country is in a slow economic recovery, Barnesville, GA has not received the memo. I'm having a very hard time selling advertising in our small town newspaper. My thinking now is that I will pull the plug on my work life at 62 and begin collecting Social Security. Hopefully, I can then supplement with a part time job. Something I enjoy. Unlike advertising sales.....<br />
Michael still lives at home. Enough dwelling on that.<br />
Gil was baptized less than 2 weeks ago. Now THAT is some wonderful news, isn't it?<br />
We've been to Santa Fe twice in 2013. Still want to retire there but this will be in God's hands.<br />
Jenna is in school to become an RN for the Navy. In less than 2 years, she will be an Ensign. Can't beat that with a stick, can we?<br />
And now I need to get in the shower and get ready for work. I have prayed to God this morning for peace. I am at least sleeping now- 3 nights in a row, so perhaps I'm on the mend, at least emotionally.<br />
We had an incident at work last month. THAT deserves it's own thread.Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00778834300572804746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883152196306358848.post-52506004779098252512012-08-11T12:00:00.000-07:002012-08-11T12:00:40.601-07:00Political CandidatesSince I live in a small town, I actually have a chance to get to know some of the candidates. Perhaps that's a good thing. And maybe it's not.<br />
I have one particular candidate in mind when I type this.<br />
He launched his second run for a seat. This was for the House of Representatives..<br />
He was trounced again.<br />
I'm sure he wonders why.<br />
Well, sir, you're rude. You are loud, and you're a complainer.<br />
Most of us don't like you.<br />
We sure can't stop long enough to take a look at your qualifications. Because, we don't like you.<br />
I bet this seems unfair, doesn't it? Sorry. We just don't like you.<br />
So, ladies and gentlemen, if you're thinking about a political career, act decent toward us little people. We might just help you win that office you're hankering for.<br />
See you at the polls!Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00778834300572804746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883152196306358848.post-76026047875554754472012-07-08T03:34:00.000-07:002012-07-08T03:34:49.572-07:00Prague: Fun while LostGil & I are home after our week in Prague.
What a lovely city! The weather was perfect (for me, of course it was too warm for Gil) and our home base was adorable. The food was very good. The sights and sounds were all I could have hoped for.
Here's the only downside: every time we left our holiday apartment, map in hand, we somehow got lost.
With it's charming and picturesque cobblestone streets and sidewalks, and beckoning little alleyways chock full of shops and cafes, there lurks a subtle danger......
WHERE THE HECK ARE WE NOW?
Even Gil with his stellar sense of direction, could never find his way unerringly. And we would get so tired sometimes, just hoping to get back to familiar territory.
But there is an upside to getting lost. Discovery! There is always a surprise to be found. And we did find good food, in one case, and a luxury handbag store, on another day.
All in all. A lovely trip.
But as I always say: it's good to be back home!Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00778834300572804746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883152196306358848.post-50067583392836572792012-06-09T09:08:00.001-07:002012-07-08T03:37:41.486-07:00Consigning and the danger inherentNot sure why this has been on my mind lately. But here we go.
3 years ago, in my small town, a woman opened a clothing and accessories consignment shop. What a terrific idea! I love shopping, but like any shopper, I add to my closets constantly, but don't cull the items as quickly as I should.
I wear nice things. Not high designer but better sportswear items. We know the fabrics are better, construction is better, am I right?
Plus, I take care of my clothing. I don't put my better stuff in the dryer ( breaks down the fabric, dulls colors), so I consider mine to be nice items.
I'm excited that this shop has opened and I bring in loads of clothing. We list 3 pages worth of clothing, I sign all the necessary forms and off we go!
I think I'll be patient and wait for 2 months before I check in with the shop owner. So I stop by the shop and it's closed. Not for good, everything is still in the store. Hmmmm, she may have had an emergency and didn't put a note on the door.
A couple of days later, I go by again and she tells me that somebody in her family had been sick or some such story. I think to myself, "seems to me you would find someone to cover for you, but this is a small town, not everyone takes their work as seriously as I do, etc". Whatever excuses I could manufacture in my head to cut this lady some slack, I thought up for her.
Are your alarms bells clanging yet?
Another few days go by, I stop by the store. You already know what I found, don't you?
The store is empty. A neighboring shop owner tells me that she apparently cleaned all the merchandise out in the middle of the night.
I spent a few weeks stopping into consignment and thrift, and let's be honest here, JUNK shops just to see if I could find any of my items. Not because I wanted them back- I did consign the clothing, after all. I parted with it, fair and square.
No, I just like to figure out scenarios and put a lid on mysteries. A store full of stuff....where could she have taken it all?
And the part that bothers me the most is this: there are bound to be some consigners who brought in clothing and jewelry and accessories because they had use for the money their items would bring in. I'm most bothered that the shop owner for all intents and purposes, stole from so many people.
Our phone numbers were on our consignment agreements and she could have called us. Shame on her!Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00778834300572804746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883152196306358848.post-11902282683914344192012-05-06T16:04:00.001-07:002012-05-06T16:04:03.814-07:00Let's go to Europe!We finally settled on the date of our trip.
We leave Atlanta on Wednesday June 27th. We will fly up to LaGuardia, then we have 6 hours to get over to JFK and catch the non-stop over to Prague. Our plane lands in Prague at about 10:30 a.m. Prague time. That's after probably 13 hours in the air. And we all know I cannot sleep in the air. So we figure that we will spend that first day in the room recovering,then perhaps we can go out for a walk and dinner that evening. I think we're both worried about an outbreak of crabbiness on my part again.
We know that we will explore the city on foot. We will see castles, and I hope that we can visit a museum.
We want to go over to Kutna Hora to see the Bone Church.
We will fly back on Wednesday July 4. I wonder if we will see fireworks on our way into the US?
This trip is for our 28th anniversary. I just know we are going to have a terrific time.Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00778834300572804746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883152196306358848.post-17647855419282100862012-03-30T04:20:00.000-07:002012-06-20T12:45:04.877-07:00Taxes, no death (yet)Much to my surprise, this year we will pay the Feds for the privilege of living in this country. Wait. We pay a good chunk of money in taxes all year long anyway, but this year, WE GET TO GIVE THEM MORE. What a thrill!<br />
People hear me say, ad nauseum, that this is the greatest country on Earth, and how lucky we are to live here. I still believe this. But it's kinda like one of those hotel chains that you've heard of, so you figure it's a safe clean place to stay, then when you arrive, it's just slightly seedy and grimy. The luster has dimmed and you're a little disappointed.<br />
With all the problems the US now has- a huge number of people on public assistance and happy to stay there, crime, violence, racial strife, I begin to wonder where Gil & I will live out our retirement.<br />
Shall we live in a remote area of New Mexico? Shall we go to a gated retirement community in Arizona? Shall we leave the US altogether and become ex-pats in an American-friendly country?<br />
So back to taxes. This has gotten me thinking that this country that I adore is not so friendly to the law-abiding, working stiff who is just trying to do the right thing. If the criminal element isn't trying to rob you of the things you've worked for and earned, this government will flip you upside down and try to get what's left.<br />
I will continue to pray that life as I know it will revert to what it was 2 decades ago. What I worked for was mine to keep, including a large part of my wages, and I didn't have to arm myself in my own home.<br />
Taxes and death. They're inevitable. But I didn't figure on being more frightened of the government.Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00778834300572804746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883152196306358848.post-33240949162457795122012-02-20T03:13:00.000-08:002012-02-20T03:13:42.323-08:00Catching upThe most important news is my faith. I jumped into reclaiming my relationship with the Lord in a big way. I have had a gaping hole in my soul. It was my craving to reclaim my faith.<br />
I have a tremendous amount to learn. For those people raised in the church, I suppose you already know all the delights I'm just now uncovering. But this is quite obviously the path that the Lord has laid out for me. I'll just have to scramble to catch up to you.<br />
I'm fitting in extra classes as they're available to me, having fellowship with the ladies in my church, reading The Bible every day over the year ( I have an accountability partner), taking a Saturday morning 6 weeks "Living Your Life as a Beautiful Offering" class, which is SO fulfilling, and praying and listening for God's instruction.<br />
I have so far to go. And until death, I won't reach the finish line. I will make my journey and pray, pray, pray.Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00778834300572804746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883152196306358848.post-78323333705520695662012-01-22T16:15:00.000-08:002012-01-22T16:15:01.445-08:00Gil's 55th birthdayMy dear Gil celebrated his 55th on Friday. His wish was to visit the Georgia Aquarium. It's been open for several years now, but you know how it goes....you want to wait until the crowds die down before you shell out those dollars and go look-see.<br />
Since it was Gil's birthday, he got in for free. Not only that, ke got a big round button to wear on his shirt,saying as much!<br />
If you know me at all, you know there is nothing I like more than having my family members get attention showered on them on their big day. Why, I do believe that my husband & kids dread me being out with them on their birthday.<br />
As we visited the various exhibits, each G.A. employee who crossed our path smiled brightly at Gil and exclaimed "Happy Birthday!"<br />
It was fabulous!<br />
After seeing this wonderful landmark, we had a very late lunch at The Varsity. Then we sought out a little shop I wanted to see. Didn't buy anything. I just wanted to see the shop.<br />
All in all, a fun day!Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00778834300572804746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883152196306358848.post-79874578656652820322012-01-02T06:47:00.000-08:002012-01-02T06:47:27.665-08:00It's 2012- New Year, New Me?Not so far....<br />
I'm off work today for the holiday. Don't plan to do anything except clean the house , especially after last night's harrowing season premier of "Hoarding: Buried Alive.<br />
The homeowner/ mother ( I use the term "mother" quite loosely since this creature was not a mom to her 2 teenagers. She merely occupied space in the roach & spider infested hovel her children were forced to live in)<br />
Dad had moved out & Sherry had custody, presumedly so she could collect the welfare & food stamps, along with her disability. You see, Sherry is lazy. I'm sorry, I mean she's disabled. She informed us that she has 13 illnesses. At least that's what I think she said. It was difficult to focus on her words due to the sheer anger forcing steam out of my ears every time she opened her mouth.<br />
Since I basically can't talk about this creature who bears a striking resemblance to the critters that took over her home for another minute, let me suggest you watch it yourself. <br />
Google- Hoarding: Buried Alive Roaches.<br />
( I have a new iPad & haven't learned all it's tricks yet, sorry.....)<br />
Spoiler alert! It DOES have a positive ending.Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00778834300572804746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883152196306358848.post-2755039268390602442011-12-19T16:36:00.000-08:002011-12-19T16:36:56.194-08:00Awful Day at Work. When Will I Learn to Cope?Sometimes I just don't know what to do about my work life. I work hard, I really do. I rarely visit or chit-chat. I have something I need to accomplish, andI hit the ground running, trying to do what I'm paid to do.<br />
And I face so many stumbling blocks. Co-workers who won't show me where to find the answers I need to move forward, who won't assist when I run out of time. Who ask me to do them favors, but won't reciprocate when I need a favor.<br />
There are approximately 50% of my coworkers with whom I work well. We understand each other and work to reach the same goals.<br />
It's the other 50%. And I find that those of us who work well together agree on who our problem co-workers are.<br />
So, why do these problem people affect me the way they do? Why do they hold the power over me, the ability to ruin a full day and make me want to quit my job?<br />
Why can't I place the problem people on my mental float boat, and send them off toward the arctic in my mind?<br />
I have to work on this. I can no longer allow the wrong people to dictate my day.Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00778834300572804746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883152196306358848.post-61525477618432692512011-12-03T04:54:00.000-08:002011-12-03T04:54:13.702-08:00Winter in Middle Georgia<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0wHNSltpe9wG-GERGT5BCsG2E8XLF7-0hKxFK5uTauLh8RiI_ZloOLO-flg6AQWEUSnm3zFW2ZEyDlLx-tLsDmtZVj4FdzI2g3SjTX6DqUhBCYKJgnsxH8-qQ5AcICiIL70Prco671b-E/s1600/Snow+in+B-ville+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0wHNSltpe9wG-GERGT5BCsG2E8XLF7-0hKxFK5uTauLh8RiI_ZloOLO-flg6AQWEUSnm3zFW2ZEyDlLx-tLsDmtZVj4FdzI2g3SjTX6DqUhBCYKJgnsxH8-qQ5AcICiIL70Prco671b-E/s320/Snow+in+B-ville+%25282%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>It's early December. And it's Saturday.<br />
When I awoke this morning, I followed my usual routine. I fixed a cup of coffee, fed and watered the cat, then opened up the wooden front door so kitty and I could look outside. We have a good storm door so minimal cold comes in, but even if it wasn't a good door, I would open it anyway. I've always liked to be able to look out windows and doors.<br />
What do I see? Brown...... brown everything.......brown everywhere.<br />
It's winter. And not a thing is growing.<br />
This is a hard time of year for me. I love warm breezes, the sound of wildlife and riotous colors. The sunshine and flowers.<br />
Winter is part of God's design. I know it. I don't easily accept it. But there's a lesson in it, isn't there?<br />
Rebirth, the return of life and hope.<br />
I'll work to be thankful that the Lord has granted me this time and understanding and most of all, acceptance of His grace and love.<br />
Even in this most dismal time of year. Perhaps He wishes me to take the time to turn toward Him by removing those beautiful scenes He grants to us in Spring and Summer.<br />
There's a purpose to it all. <br />
I understand, I think.Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00778834300572804746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883152196306358848.post-4847603200643165312011-11-26T07:12:00.000-08:002011-11-26T07:12:58.737-08:00After Thanksgiving shoppingThis is going to be a thin Christmas for gift giving. Not that we cannot afford it, but what's the purpose of spending lots of money on stuff? <br />
When asked what I want this year, I came up with this: a gold cross necklace, a couple of books. Really, I couldn't come up with more.<br />
Oh sure, I wouldn't mind an iPad but it's $500 and I have a perfectly serviceable netbook.<br />
So this will be more sedate Christmas. Will get the kids the stuff on their wish lists. <br />
And I will remember the Lord in all this. THAT'S the true meaning of Christmas, and if the truth be told, that's the true meaning of every day, isn't it?<br />
God bless you, everyone!Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00778834300572804746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883152196306358848.post-58422429150252740652011-11-03T02:53:00.000-07:002011-11-03T02:53:19.240-07:00Ick, here comes the cold weatherThe furnace how now been turned on. The closet has been emptied of my favorite clothes which have gone into storage, and the bulky cold weather clothing has been hung in their place.<br />
The flip flops are put away. The socks are now being worn.<br />
I know it has to come every year. I've been through enough of these season changes that I know this is coming.<br />
But like everything else I don't enjoy, I know how to pretend it doesn't exist until I'm faced with it. Until I can no longer hide from it.<br />
Here in middle Georgia we rarely see snow. So I don't have to contend with it any more. But I will still find something to dislike about winter. <br />
And what I dislike is how the cold is painful to me.<br />
Attitude check!<br />
God created these seasons. There is a reason for them.<br />
Accept and move on.Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00778834300572804746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883152196306358848.post-82758205158304559232011-10-27T17:38:00.000-07:002011-10-27T17:38:16.007-07:00Family Drama, or, I'm Glad we Live 1,000 Miles AwayEvery family has one high maintenance member, am I right? That member will usually be a needy female. Selfish, immature, a general pain in the rear end.<br />
We have one. She is a user, and feels that the entire human race owes her. She won't hold down a job. She is always on the hunt for a man to support her and validate her. Once she lures one into her web, she treats him like dirt. He cannot escape quickly enough.<br />
She has nearly bankrupted her parents. They have to pay her bills, rescue her from whatever state some man has abandoned her in. She is a nightmare.<br />
She has recently destroyed her parents marriage. And she announced her intent to do so.<br />
Her mother thinks this she-devil can do no wrong, so this monster knew exactly how to manipulate her mother so she could break up the marriage.<br />
Why did she do it? Because her father told her he'd had enough of her foolishness and that the wallet was no longer available to her.<br />
Rather than get off her 36 year old fanny to take on an adult role and learn to fend for herself, she told her mother some lies. She destroyed a nearly 40 year union.<br />
Some people are the devil incarnate. I don't know how this person lives with herself.<br />
I feel anger and sorrow.Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00778834300572804746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883152196306358848.post-28941400034932512602011-10-13T18:49:00.000-07:002011-10-13T18:49:51.284-07:00Hurt FeelingsToday at work, my day started out well. I've been working hard, trying to meet my own personal goals. Again, selling ads in this economy is a challenge but I'm still attempting to do the best I can and not get frustrated.<br />
I went for a walk on my lunchbreak and it was sunny and warm. There were some black clouds but I wasn't going far and thought I'd be Ok.<br />
Suddenly, a storm arrived with 35mph winds. Totally unexpected.<br />
I was caught at a local business and had to phone my job to ask if someone could come pick me up.<br />
Well, you'd think I'd requested someone's kidney. <br />
Certain coworkers find any type of deviation from their usual day to be either frightening or frustrating. So my little phone call asking for help was a problem.<br />
As I was waiting, a citizen offered me a ride and I was on my way back to work within minutes.<br />
Well, my job had sent a coworker after me but I was already gone. He had to come back and got a little bit wet.<br />
I'm sorry.<br />
I got a call to my desk telling me I owed the coworker who came after me a lunch. Really?<br />
He drove the company car over. So he's not out gas money. He got a few minutes out of the office. A little 3 minute paid break, if you will.<br />
I run errands for coworkers, take proofs over for other people. I use my own vehicle.<br />
So the upshot of this experience was this: I have got to stop being so sensitive. My current place of employment is definitely not the place to be a sensitive person.<br />
I've gotta toughen up, shrug these little moments off and continue to do my work.<br />
And pray. I gotta pray.Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00778834300572804746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883152196306358848.post-42976571833461992182011-10-05T07:35:00.000-07:002011-10-05T07:35:26.632-07:00Eye surgery for the daughterIn Virginia right now. Leaving my daughter's apartment in approximately 2 hours, taking her to Portsmouth so she can have PRK surgery to correct her nearsightedness.<br />
It's quiet right now, she's laying on the sofa next to me, dozing. I don't think she slept well last night. She's very nervous.<br />
I had Lasik surgery myself in 2000 to correct extreme nearsightedness. It was successful and I'm still thrilled with the results.<br />
Doesn't mean a person won't worry that she will be the one in a million who will be the failure in the chair, and lose her sight permanently.....<br />
Anyway, I'm happy I can be here to help her and baby her (as if she'll allow THAT!)<br />
Pray for God to guide the surgeon's hand, please!Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00778834300572804746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883152196306358848.post-54585115354511771452011-10-02T04:30:00.000-07:002011-10-02T04:30:57.279-07:00A Chilly October morningI flipped the themostat over to the "heat" function when I got up this morning. The temperature read 67 degrees. Too cold for me and as I was the first person out of bed, I felt entitled to warm up the house.<br />
Yesterday, I removed the sleeveless shirts from my closet and put them into storage. Took out most pairs of shorts and stored them as well. I'll keep the workout shorts in place for a bit longer. I think we will warm back into the low 80's as the week progresses. However, I'll be in Norfolk, VA.<br />
Time to study my Sunday School lesson so I have some idea what we're to discuss today.<br />
Then perhaps a walk at the Gordon walking track this afternoon, once the chill outside burns off.<br />
Should be a terrific day!Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00778834300572804746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-883152196306358848.post-49428911129765823782011-09-22T18:30:00.000-07:002011-10-15T07:52:41.975-07:00Living the fashionable life via mediaI am not what you might consider "fashionable". Well, maybe a tiny spark happens here and there, and I always know when I hit a mark with my outfit. But I don't have the time or energy or, let's be truthful, the funds to make fashion a daily part of my life.<br />
I make do with separates, mostly tops I love, and pants that I can mix and match with all these many tops I have. I accessorize with scarves, necklaces and bracelets. It's all I can manage to do. But I don't look like I dressed in the dark, and I'm cleaned, pressed, and best of all, dressed correctly for the occasion. So that's successful, right?<br />
But here's the deal. I love LOVE The Rachel Zoe Project and Project Runway. It's a terribly guilty pleasure, seeing fabulous, expensive, wonderful clothing and bags and shoes and jewelry. I love to watch the magic of taking all these components and creating a pow! look.<br />
So I live vicariously with the couple of shows I manage to watch each week. My fashion fix. My guilty pleasure.Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00778834300572804746noreply@blogger.com0