Never, ever, ever again will I, Sundria McCormick, take a connection flight, if there is any way to avoid it. I know there are some places you just can't get a direct/non-stop to, but I will search, high, low, in, out, up, down, sideways, front, back, and in-between, but "As God is my witness, the Yankees will never take Tara" and I will NEVER, EVER, EVER again take a connection flight again!
So, ready to hear my woes and oes of Sundi's Christmas Travels 2006? Yep, I thought so.
Friday, December 22, 2006. Got off work early, had everything pretty much packed already so I was able to take a nap, Paul and Teresa were driving me to the airport, things were looking good. We leave our house headed to the Holland Tunnel, what would be a 10 minute drive, 1 hour drive! Finally get to the airport, I go to check in, she's like, sorry you won't make your connection. I tell her, well, put me on anyway, I'd rather get that close than be stuck here. I go to the gate, a 2 1/2 hour delay. There's a Friday's right there, so me and 3 strangers share a table, yep, it was that crowded and we have a great time talking and anticipating are delays, we all had them. We finally take off, get to Atlanta and we hit the ground at 9:55. My connection was to leave at 9:15. I see the gate agent she tells me it's D11, so I take off running, literally. I get there at about 10:15, the flight left at 10:05. Nope, no more flights to Jacksonville, Savanah, Tallahasse, Gainesville or Tampa. The flight to Orlando, oversold! So, this LOVELY, nope, don't really mean that, agent tells me she can put me on a flight on Saturday at 8PM, yep, get that, it's now 10:30 Friday night and she's going to get me home on Saturday at 10:00pm! I refuse that and say give me a rental, I'll drive. She explains in her BEST, nope, don't mean that either!, customer service attitude that I can be reimbursed, but they won't just pay for it. I say fine, just get my bag for me. Sorry ma'am, I don't do that, you have to go to baggage claim. I left her and she yells down the terminal, "you're welcome"! I turned and said, you can take that back 'cause I didn't thank you for a damn thing! I was so mad.
I go to baggage claim, sorry ma'am, it will be 2 hours to get your bag. This is now 11pm on Friday night. I'm like forget it, send it to Jax, I'll pick it up when I drop the car off, I'm driving to Jax. This girl behind me says, "you're driving to Jax? Want a partner?" I'm like, sure do, let's go. I get the car, thankfully daddy had already reserved that for me, and when we pull out of the rental lot, it's 12:00 on the dot. I drove the first 3 hours and then we stopped to fill up and get something to drink. She drove the last 2 hours and then I dropped her off and headed home. Turns out her boyfriend plays for the Jaguars. I'm so glad she was there, I didn't have to stop to sleep. I got my mama's house at 5am. I was so tired and just exhausted.
Saturday December 23rd, 2006.
I call baggage claim, thinking I can make a claim over the phone for my bags, I have with other airlines. Nope, of course not, you have to show up in person. I ask the lady why, she has no answer. I said, I am going to give you the SAME information on the phone that I will in person, she said, I can't do it, you must show up. I take the car to Dollar to return it and of course, they are wonderful and so nice. I go inside to get my bag, yep, the baggage office is closed. I have to go to the ticket counter and get them to come with me to get my bag. This man was very nice and understanding and for the first time, he apologized for the hassle.
I spend my Christmas weekend with my family met my new little cousin, she'll call me Aunt Sundi, 'cause I want her too. =) Her name is Dallas and she's yummy! I had a wonderful time with my family and enjoyed every minute of it. Then, yep, you guessed it, I had to board a plane on the way home!
Monday December 26th, 2006!
My flight is scheduled to leave Jax at 2:30, so I arrive at 1:30 and this time I have Queenie with me. We get to the gate and we are delayed about 30 minutes, not so bad, I'm sure we will get to Atlanta and just make it for boarding. We land in Atlanta on time, all is good, right? WRONG! I get out at gate C8, they tell my flight leaves out of gate C7. Well, I get there and ask the gate agent, is this the flight for Newark, she's says, Ma'am, I don't have time to talk to you, my priority is to get this flight out. I'm like, excuse me? She walks away! I was floored! So I go in search of a board to tell me what gate I'm supposed to fly out of and it's all the way down the terminal, takes forever to find it. And yep, it's C7, just we are now delayed 3 1/2 hours to start off, then it moves from 4:49, to 7:51, to 8:12 to finally 8:36! Yep, I'll leave Atlanta after I was supposed to be at Newark! I was so mad. I tried to get something to eat, the waitress never game over so I left and got fast food. Walked around a lot. chilled on the floor forever and let Queenie run around and in a section away from other passengers. They then changed gates on me, so I go to that gate and go to hand him my boarding pass and yep, I don't have it. I realized later I had thrown it away by accident. I asked him to reprint it for me, and he says, you will have to wait. I said, well, you had called my boarding group, and before I could finish, he says, ma'am, I said you will have to wait! He then yelled at this child too, just a hateful man. When we finally left Atlanta we had been there almost 4 1/2 hours! It was insane.
Incase you didn't get my statement earlier, I will NEVER EVER AGAIN take a connection flight or Airtran if I can help it.
I still am not finished with all of this, I still have to write the airline and explain all my frustrations with the whole experience and more importantly with the agents I dealt with. They were just rude. And through it all, you know what? They were getting paid! They were on the job, getting paid and all they did was screw me over and over and over again. They didn't feel the need to care one bit, be nice or try and understand the frustrations that we passengers were going through. They were NOT Customer Service agents, they were strictly agents. My philosophy has forever been and will forever be, if you don't like people, don't get a job where you work with people, it's just that simple! At first I was upset I didn't get names of the agents, but later felt that was irrelevant, it wasn't necessary because they all sucked! Airtran is just horrible in the customer service department.
Thursday, December 28, 2006
Wednesday, November 01, 2006
Backs, do we really need them?
Well, yes of course we do and I never knew how much until all this mess with mine. I've always had back issues, I guess the cheering and volleyball and just going top speed all the time, well, it takes it's toll. Plus, my mama suffers from the same thing, so I guess it's hereditary as well, so yeah, I'm getting it from all sides. I go for an MRI tomorrow and then we go from there. I am ready to do and try anything at this point. Little bugga just keeps giving me grief.
Friday, September 29, 2006
"They have to eat too"...
Yesterday and today have been sad days for me. I got word yesterday afternoon that Pearl has passed away. My heart just broke and I cried and cried. I had seen her about a week or so ago. I'd try to call a few times to set up a time to go visit and just kept getting her voicemail. When the aide didn't call me back, I knew something was up.
I still don't know exacltly what happened, if she was at home or in the hospital or what, but she's gone. I just pray that she didn't die in pain.
I went to her service this morning and it was very sweet. Lots of people there, but not near as many as wanted to be, I'm sure. But since the custom is to bury her so quickly, I suspect some people just couldn't get there in time. I'm very glad that I found out and was able to attend.
Her nephew got up and spoke for a mintue and said, I'm sure everyone has a Pearl story and of course, things started going through my head like the times we would just hang out at her place, trying to teach her email and Word. The weekend we went to Atlantic City and gambled. The night we went to see one play and she came with an unexpected visitor and she was so cute about it. She's like, I didn't invite her, I don't want her here, really, but we got her! LOL We had a great time at the play and enjoyed the company. The political debates she would have with me, now mind you, I never said a word, just nodded and let her go on about how being a Republican was horrible. She'd always tell me, "I'm not supposed to love you, you're a Christian, (she was Jewish), you're a southerner, (she was a yankee) and you're a Republican, (she was a Democrat), I'm not sure why, but I just do. I just love you!" It always made me smile. I'd tell her that it's just the way God planned it, he planned me to bring some southerner, Christian, Republicanisms into her life. She thought God had a great sense of humor!
But as I was sitting there the funniest story that popped into my head was one night when we went to dinner. Pearl had gotten a free dinner coupon from this place. We go and it turns out to be a country bar type place, yep, in Manhattan. Anyway, we ordered our food and as I was finnishing my last bite a roach crawled across the table in front of me! I said, Pearl, honey, a roach just crawled right here. She said well, Sundi, they have to eat too! LOL, that's what I loved about her, nothing like that phased her, she just took it all in stride.
To my Pearl, I will miss you a lot and I love you just as much!
I still don't know exacltly what happened, if she was at home or in the hospital or what, but she's gone. I just pray that she didn't die in pain.
I went to her service this morning and it was very sweet. Lots of people there, but not near as many as wanted to be, I'm sure. But since the custom is to bury her so quickly, I suspect some people just couldn't get there in time. I'm very glad that I found out and was able to attend.
Her nephew got up and spoke for a mintue and said, I'm sure everyone has a Pearl story and of course, things started going through my head like the times we would just hang out at her place, trying to teach her email and Word. The weekend we went to Atlantic City and gambled. The night we went to see one play and she came with an unexpected visitor and she was so cute about it. She's like, I didn't invite her, I don't want her here, really, but we got her! LOL We had a great time at the play and enjoyed the company. The political debates she would have with me, now mind you, I never said a word, just nodded and let her go on about how being a Republican was horrible. She'd always tell me, "I'm not supposed to love you, you're a Christian, (she was Jewish), you're a southerner, (she was a yankee) and you're a Republican, (she was a Democrat), I'm not sure why, but I just do. I just love you!" It always made me smile. I'd tell her that it's just the way God planned it, he planned me to bring some southerner, Christian, Republicanisms into her life. She thought God had a great sense of humor!
But as I was sitting there the funniest story that popped into my head was one night when we went to dinner. Pearl had gotten a free dinner coupon from this place. We go and it turns out to be a country bar type place, yep, in Manhattan. Anyway, we ordered our food and as I was finnishing my last bite a roach crawled across the table in front of me! I said, Pearl, honey, a roach just crawled right here. She said well, Sundi, they have to eat too! LOL, that's what I loved about her, nothing like that phased her, she just took it all in stride.
To my Pearl, I will miss you a lot and I love you just as much!
Thursday, August 31, 2006
July and August, gotta love those hot months!
Physical therapy has become my life these days. I go 3 times a week, but it does seem to be helping my back, finally, something is helping. The place I go is on Canal and Broadway, and it's OK, but boy do I hate having to go up there 3 times a week and deal with all those tourists. Summer in the city is great for so many reasons, but tourists, not one of them! LOL, I know, I sound like a bitchy New Yorker and maybe I am, but hey, it's just not necessary to be that stupid and SLOW! Just walk, this is all we ask of you, really.
This summer has been really great, we had some REALLY hot days, about two weeks of almost unbearable heat, but then it hasn't been so bad the rest of the time. I've had visitors and gone on a few trips, so all in all, wonderful times.
Went to a BBQ at Billy and Daniel's. Wonderful night to be outside and eating and just hanging out with friends.
Melinda from Nashville was in town and it was so awesome to get to see her and meet her family. I took them to Patsy's and they agree, best pizza ever! LOL
Got to spend some great time with John over the summer. We did some movies and dinners and stuff and just hung out. I love that he and I live so close together, it's cool to have someone who gets my craziness and understands all of it. And when I want to talk about Days stuff, he doesn't roll his eyes at me and laugh, he just talks too! LOL, it's so wonderful. Oh, forgot to post this last time. He and I went to dinner one night and one of his students saw us. Later they asked him who I was and said I had big breasts and a pretty face! LOL, I was like, whoa! A teenager thinks it, that's so cool. But it totally made me laugh about the big boobs part.
I had friends, Bro. Terry, Tiffany and Tammy, from Jacksonville in town for a couple of days. It was really neat for them to be here, they are people I grew up with and actually used to baby sit. I felt so old seeing these girls all grown up and stuff, but it was a sweet time to be able to reconnect and show them the city and boy did I. I walked them all over the East and West Village and I took Bro. Terry to the apex of the universe, you know, 1st Avenue and 1st Street. That's a Seinfeld reference, which Bro. Terry is a HUGE fan. So, as we are walking around the Lower East Side this man sees me walking toward him and I kid you not, yells at me, "you so fat, you just so fat!" At first I didn't get what he was saying, because of course, why on earth, even if it is true, would you think it is OK to say this to anyone, much less a stranger? But, he did and I'm like, what?! Oh well. All my friends have gotten the best laugh out of it. We had just eaten at a Mexican Place, El Paso, and it was so good, maybe I had just enjoyed it a bit too much! LOL
On the 27th, my boys, Tim, Alex, Billy, Daniel, Renee', Roman, Zach, Brian, Neil, Bryon, Peter, John, and Erika took me to Bubby's for my bday celebration. We had the BEST time. We laughed so much and we all ate SO much, but it was just the best night ever! I LOVE being with my boys, and Erika, she loves it too, they are just the best ever.
I had lunch with Leslie at Red, she and Tango met me on a Saturday, it was nice to see her and just chat.
On July 31st, the parents arrived! What a GREAT day that was. I just love it when they come to visit. We had the best time together and they spoiled me rotten, which I of course LOVE.
We did Thai food on Monday, Italian on Tuesday, and French on Wednesday! It was a mini around the world tour. We did lots of shopping, I got a new mattress, which is amazing and if it were a boy, I'd marry him. We got clothes and all sorts of stuff. Daddy took me and a few of my friends to the French place on Wednesday night and it was such a great meal. They brought me a crepe for my desert and put a candle in it. So sweet. Mama and daddy had to leave the next day, but the visit was perfect.
Thursday night, my Gateway crew took me to Foxhounds for dinner and I got presents and had a fantabulous time. Well the next morning, woke up with food poisoning. Never had it before, but boy was I sick and in the midst, yep, threw my back out. I was supposed to go to the lake that weekend, I had to cancel and I was in bed for 4 days. Getting used to the new mattress was so hard and it made my back hurt so much, I cried for days, I hadn't been in that much pain in a long time. But I am used to the bed now and now I love him! :-)
Alicia and her girlfriend and I went to Cowgirl one night for dinner. I hadn't met Sam yet, so you know, big sis has to meet the significant other. It went great, 'cause Sam is great. We walked to the bus and stopped in some shops along the way, fun night for sure.
Took my Bryon out for his bday, it was in May! LOL, yep, I'm a procrastinator for sure. We went to the movies, saw The Devil Wears Prada, SO GOOD and then we went to Bubba Gump for dinner. Of course, you know I don't have to say it, but I will, I LOVE my Bryon! There was so much laughter that night, I'm sure you all heard it every where.
Catie C, a.k.a. Jersey, was in town so I went to see her for a bit after work on the 11th and then met with the Gateway crew and we all went to see World Trade Center. Wow! What a movie. I am NOT a Nicolas Cage fan and I even liked him in this. The movie was so well done and well, it was just so moving. I knew I would get emotional, but I had no clue I would be so affected by it. I just wept, as did the rest of the audience.
We had our company picnic on the 17th and Gen drove so I rode with her, OMG, that was the best, we got to leave early and it was just a fun day.
Since then, I've just been kind of chillin', not doing much. I, of course, spend tons of time with P&T and E and the rest of the Gateway crew. We've established quite the family unit there. It's so wonderful to have them and just go and hang out and do nothing, but do the nothing together. I went to Sara's the other night and she cut my hair for me, I just needed a trim and knew she could do it, so she did. It's nice to know they are there for whatever.
I went grocery shopping with Zach last night, spent too much money, but it was needed and then my cart broke on the way home, so I had to get a cab. Ahhh, such is life. I've had that cart for 5 years now and Lord knows I have asked a LOT from it! LOL, it was time for it to give up the ghost.
I'm headed to the lake for the long weekend, can't wait! It's going to be so nice to chill with P&B and the rest of the boys.
This summer has been really great, we had some REALLY hot days, about two weeks of almost unbearable heat, but then it hasn't been so bad the rest of the time. I've had visitors and gone on a few trips, so all in all, wonderful times.
Went to a BBQ at Billy and Daniel's. Wonderful night to be outside and eating and just hanging out with friends.
Melinda from Nashville was in town and it was so awesome to get to see her and meet her family. I took them to Patsy's and they agree, best pizza ever! LOL
Got to spend some great time with John over the summer. We did some movies and dinners and stuff and just hung out. I love that he and I live so close together, it's cool to have someone who gets my craziness and understands all of it. And when I want to talk about Days stuff, he doesn't roll his eyes at me and laugh, he just talks too! LOL, it's so wonderful. Oh, forgot to post this last time. He and I went to dinner one night and one of his students saw us. Later they asked him who I was and said I had big breasts and a pretty face! LOL, I was like, whoa! A teenager thinks it, that's so cool. But it totally made me laugh about the big boobs part.
I had friends, Bro. Terry, Tiffany and Tammy, from Jacksonville in town for a couple of days. It was really neat for them to be here, they are people I grew up with and actually used to baby sit. I felt so old seeing these girls all grown up and stuff, but it was a sweet time to be able to reconnect and show them the city and boy did I. I walked them all over the East and West Village and I took Bro. Terry to the apex of the universe, you know, 1st Avenue and 1st Street. That's a Seinfeld reference, which Bro. Terry is a HUGE fan. So, as we are walking around the Lower East Side this man sees me walking toward him and I kid you not, yells at me, "you so fat, you just so fat!" At first I didn't get what he was saying, because of course, why on earth, even if it is true, would you think it is OK to say this to anyone, much less a stranger? But, he did and I'm like, what?! Oh well. All my friends have gotten the best laugh out of it. We had just eaten at a Mexican Place, El Paso, and it was so good, maybe I had just enjoyed it a bit too much! LOL
On the 27th, my boys, Tim, Alex, Billy, Daniel, Renee', Roman, Zach, Brian, Neil, Bryon, Peter, John, and Erika took me to Bubby's for my bday celebration. We had the BEST time. We laughed so much and we all ate SO much, but it was just the best night ever! I LOVE being with my boys, and Erika, she loves it too, they are just the best ever.
I had lunch with Leslie at Red, she and Tango met me on a Saturday, it was nice to see her and just chat.
On July 31st, the parents arrived! What a GREAT day that was. I just love it when they come to visit. We had the best time together and they spoiled me rotten, which I of course LOVE.
We did Thai food on Monday, Italian on Tuesday, and French on Wednesday! It was a mini around the world tour. We did lots of shopping, I got a new mattress, which is amazing and if it were a boy, I'd marry him. We got clothes and all sorts of stuff. Daddy took me and a few of my friends to the French place on Wednesday night and it was such a great meal. They brought me a crepe for my desert and put a candle in it. So sweet. Mama and daddy had to leave the next day, but the visit was perfect.
Thursday night, my Gateway crew took me to Foxhounds for dinner and I got presents and had a fantabulous time. Well the next morning, woke up with food poisoning. Never had it before, but boy was I sick and in the midst, yep, threw my back out. I was supposed to go to the lake that weekend, I had to cancel and I was in bed for 4 days. Getting used to the new mattress was so hard and it made my back hurt so much, I cried for days, I hadn't been in that much pain in a long time. But I am used to the bed now and now I love him! :-)
Alicia and her girlfriend and I went to Cowgirl one night for dinner. I hadn't met Sam yet, so you know, big sis has to meet the significant other. It went great, 'cause Sam is great. We walked to the bus and stopped in some shops along the way, fun night for sure.
Took my Bryon out for his bday, it was in May! LOL, yep, I'm a procrastinator for sure. We went to the movies, saw The Devil Wears Prada, SO GOOD and then we went to Bubba Gump for dinner. Of course, you know I don't have to say it, but I will, I LOVE my Bryon! There was so much laughter that night, I'm sure you all heard it every where.
Catie C, a.k.a. Jersey, was in town so I went to see her for a bit after work on the 11th and then met with the Gateway crew and we all went to see World Trade Center. Wow! What a movie. I am NOT a Nicolas Cage fan and I even liked him in this. The movie was so well done and well, it was just so moving. I knew I would get emotional, but I had no clue I would be so affected by it. I just wept, as did the rest of the audience.
We had our company picnic on the 17th and Gen drove so I rode with her, OMG, that was the best, we got to leave early and it was just a fun day.
Since then, I've just been kind of chillin', not doing much. I, of course, spend tons of time with P&T and E and the rest of the Gateway crew. We've established quite the family unit there. It's so wonderful to have them and just go and hang out and do nothing, but do the nothing together. I went to Sara's the other night and she cut my hair for me, I just needed a trim and knew she could do it, so she did. It's nice to know they are there for whatever.
I went grocery shopping with Zach last night, spent too much money, but it was needed and then my cart broke on the way home, so I had to get a cab. Ahhh, such is life. I've had that cart for 5 years now and Lord knows I have asked a LOT from it! LOL, it was time for it to give up the ghost.
I'm headed to the lake for the long weekend, can't wait! It's going to be so nice to chill with P&B and the rest of the boys.
Tuesday, July 11, 2006
I'm shedding my skin...
OK, so yeah, that sounds gross and that's because it is! I have this sunburn and now I'm peeling and it's itching and all that garbage. I of course waxed oh so philosophical about the whole experience! LOL
Seriously, it did make me think about what animals shed their skin and how that must be a painful experience, but how great they must feel after. Kind of wish that we could do that more often. I sometimes feel that I need to "shed my skin" emotionally. I think it would be good for me. Hanging onto stuff is just not always the best thing to do. Not that I want to forget emotions and hurt and baggage, but it would feel great to be able to make a fresh start every so often.
I know for me, friendships are things that I tend to take way more seriously sometimes than my friends do. I get very attached to people and when that's not reciprocated, I don't deal with that oh so well. I know that a lot of people take physical closeness, distance wise, as a way of showing you love or care about someone, but I stand firm that it's just geography. You DO NOT have to live close to be close. I truly feel that I am closer to my parents and a lot of my family now than I have ever been. I live a long way away, but the connection is so much more than physical distance, or lack thereof.
I have lived in Jacksonville, FL and Nashville, TN and now NYC. To think that I can't be close to people because I no longer live there, that's ridiculous. You can be, it's all a matter of priority. I guess part of me is seeing how I am not a priority in some people's lives and it hurts, but it's good to know, so if and when, I can shed that skin and make that fresh start. I will never, ever, disconnect completely, I know that, but I do realize where I fit into their world and I am learning to accept that.
No, this is not a pitty party, honestly it's not, it's just a bit of talking things out.
Seriously, it did make me think about what animals shed their skin and how that must be a painful experience, but how great they must feel after. Kind of wish that we could do that more often. I sometimes feel that I need to "shed my skin" emotionally. I think it would be good for me. Hanging onto stuff is just not always the best thing to do. Not that I want to forget emotions and hurt and baggage, but it would feel great to be able to make a fresh start every so often.
I know for me, friendships are things that I tend to take way more seriously sometimes than my friends do. I get very attached to people and when that's not reciprocated, I don't deal with that oh so well. I know that a lot of people take physical closeness, distance wise, as a way of showing you love or care about someone, but I stand firm that it's just geography. You DO NOT have to live close to be close. I truly feel that I am closer to my parents and a lot of my family now than I have ever been. I live a long way away, but the connection is so much more than physical distance, or lack thereof.
I have lived in Jacksonville, FL and Nashville, TN and now NYC. To think that I can't be close to people because I no longer live there, that's ridiculous. You can be, it's all a matter of priority. I guess part of me is seeing how I am not a priority in some people's lives and it hurts, but it's good to know, so if and when, I can shed that skin and make that fresh start. I will never, ever, disconnect completely, I know that, but I do realize where I fit into their world and I am learning to accept that.
No, this is not a pitty party, honestly it's not, it's just a bit of talking things out.
Growing old SUCKS!
I went to see Pearl at lunch. She was in the bed, too tired to get up, so I piled up in the bed with her and just chatted. She was wanting to hear all about my trips and visitors and ordinary stuff. I talked and talked and talked, I know, big surprise. I kept asking her about her and she was trying to tell me, but she has now developed a stuttering issue. It's not so bad, but it's very frustrating for her. I'm not sure if it's the meds or just getting older or a mental thing. I didn't stay long, but got 3 hugs in, :-). As I was leaving I stopped by the bathroom and I noticed in the tub was the chair and on the counter, Depends. I so hate that she's in that place now. I so remember the days when we had to deal with that with my grandmothers. It's so sad and not nice at all. Pearl is coping as only she can, she makes jokes and takes it all in stride, but I so hate seeing her like that.
Blah, Blah, Blah!
Well, as we can all see, I'm not doing much better with my blogging as I should be. Life just has a way of happening and I can't seem to say no to much these days! This, of course, puts me in a crazy situation where I just continue to go and go and go. I love it, but it does wear a girl out. I've been blessed to be able to do so much, so no, I'm not complaining at all, just stating some facts.
Well, I guess I should just do my normal update and then I think blog some other thoughts separately. I know what you are thinking, yeah right, but really, today, I will!
My friend Michelle* was here for a few days after I last blogged and we had the most wonderful time. We went to Angelo's in Little Italy and the food was phenomenal. Her husband got this appetizer that I would normally never have ordered and oh my was it tasty! Her daughter, awesome! She's a very cool kid and very sweet and fun to hang with. She's quite the artist as well. The next night, a VERY RAINY night, we met with our friend John and went to Le Sans Couletts and had dinner. Oh my what a fun experience! It's a French restaurant and the way they do the dinners, so cool. When you sit down they bring out this rack of meats, pepperoni's, salami's and the like, you just cut if off and eat. Then it comes with a basket full of fresh fruits and veggies. Not cut up, whole! This huge carrot, cucumber, lemons, radishes, just there! So cool and very good. I took all the lemons home with me, they were so yumo! Michelle and family left the next day, it was so great to hang with her, rain and all!
I saw Pearl for lunch a few times, she's doing good, remarkably well, considering. I'm going to see her today as well. I also had lunch with Hannah, it had been so long since we'd seen each other. She fell about two months ago and has been a bit confined and not going out as much, but we did lunch and it was wonderful to just chat with her. She's fine from her fall, but now having to use a walker. I plan to see her this weekend, to catch up again.
Oh! OMG! John and I went to see Break Up with Jennifer Anniston! I was so mad at the end. John understood the need, blah, blah, blah! LOL, I told him, I know what you are saying, but that's real life, I go to the movies for fantasy and happy endings! LOL I honestly didn't know that's how it would end, I expected a romantic comedy. Now, had I know I was going to see a dark-not-so-romantic-break-up, then I wouldn't have minded, but don't bill it as a comedy, it wasn't! LOL, bitter party of one, that's me. We then went to this restaurant called Piola and it was good, but I almost had to get in a fight with this biotch sitting next to us. UGH, she made me so mad! John's like, Sundi, it's OK, I'm like, no, (very loudly), it's not, Miss Prima Donna just needs to get over herself! LOL, yes, I know, very Christian, but she was just horrible!
Teresa's parents are in town still so we have been having lots of family time and I've been cooking, T's been cooking, Sarah's (girl down the hall) been cooking and we've been having a really nice time. Sarah brought lobster and cooked it, so yummy. T cooked us some good old Mexican food, mmmmm mmmmmm good!
Bryon, Teresa, Dale and I went to see X-Men 3, such a good movie. My Bryon, I just love him so much, he makes me laugh and everyone else too. We were watching the movie and of course one of the mutants has wings. Well, when he brought those wings out and started to fly, Bryon leans over to Teresa and says, "two words, Bird Flu"! LOL, I almost spit my drink!
That Friday I flew home to Jacksonville where my brother picked me up and we met mama and daddy and went to a seafood buffet. Yep, crab legs, all I could eat! I was in Heaven! The next day we had a reunion at Camp Tracey and that was just the best. There were so many people that I hadn't seen in ages and it was wonderful to catch up with them and just spend the day with everyone. The day was HOT, as only FL can be, but it was worth it all. Sunday started Camp Meeting and I enjoyed being there for the whole thing, until Wednesday. I hadn't been home for that in like 10 years, so it was nice to be there. Queenie had a wonderful time with her Grammy and Papa and even Molly. I also got to see my friend Diana, she and I go so far back and she's the same as she was in high school. Love her and loved that I got to spend some time with her.
We spent a lot of time at Derrick and Barbara's each night after the services and just 'fellowshipped'. That's what I do miss about being part of a big church, that type of connection. I met Malcom Carter, a preacher from Alabama, and he was a hoot and a half. Great man and a wonderful preacher. He and Derrick are great friends and he stayed with them. There was also a singing group that was there and they hung out with us too.
I left on Wednesday and of course, was delayed, but I got home and worked the next day. I was out sick on that Friday, I guess the body just gave out, my shingles were KILLING me and I had a headache and some other issues and I was like, forget it, 3 strikes, I'm out!
I went to see a play with some girls from work. It was called Satellite, it was an off-Broadway and it was pretty good. Sandra Oh, from Grey's Anatomy was in it, she was very good and very convincing. When I got home from the play, I realized I left my wallet in the cab! Thankfully I had no cash in it and only a few credit cards so I got that all cancelled, but the license and the actual wallet, so upset that I lost that. I had just gotten that wallet from Coach, it was a gift! UGH! Made me so mad, I know the cabbie saw it and he could have returned it, but he didn't. Not a believer in Karma, but I hope it bites him in the butt! LOL
Stephanie and Debbie, from Nashville, came into town for a visit. We went to China Town and Little Italy on Saturday and then to see the Lion King that night. It was their first play/musical ever so I was happy I was with them to see it. The show was fabulous, the costuming was so well done. I hadn't seen that one before and I really liked it. Not sure I would go back, but so glad I saw it. After we went to Bubba Gump and had a yummy dinner and the girls got to laugh at some poor soul that almost fell. Whatever it takes to entertain them! LOL
Sunday we went to church and then to the Trailer Park for lunch with Teresa, Dale and Wayne. It was Father's day, so it was nice to have a family dinner. We stopped at Ben and Jerry's on the way to the bus and I got some Wavy Gravy, my day could not get better! LOL That night I took the girls to Lucky Cheng's and well, let's just say, we had a wonderful time. Who knew Stephanie looked so good as a drag queen! LOL And that PP, mighty tasty! Right girls?!
Monday I worked and they shopped and then we met P&B for dinner and this place that used to be a garage and it's now a restaurant, it's called B Bar and Grill. Good food for sure. The company, couldn't beat it. Have I told ya'll that I love my Bryon?! Yep, he is just the best.
Tuesday I worked and they shopped and messed around the city. That night we went to the Color Purple, it was just as wonderful the second time. The girls loved it too, minus the body odor guy in front of Steph! ;) After that we went to a Mexican restaurant and it was very good, but the next day, not doing so well.
I woke up with a migraine and not sure if it was the food or the meds, or the pain or what. I went home at noon and just crashed. The girls left and I slept. I was out sick the next day and then on Friday I worked feeling so sick. Saturday and Sunday I was basically in bed and not doing well. My BP was really high and my pulse was too. When I went to the doctor on Monday the BP was 150 over 99 and the pulse was 100. She put me on some meds and sent me to physical therapy. She's thinking it's the shingles and the lower back issues I always have and my body just anticipating the pain and dealing with all that.
John and Bryon and I met for dinner one night, so glad they finally met. We went to Acme and had a most wonderful time. Three southerners just chilling in the big apple! LOL Oh and yes, we had sweet tea!
That weekend, July 4th weekend, I went to Lucylee's in Mississippi's. It was so great to be with my girls again. We did LOTS of eating, chilling, swimming and watching DVD's. I miss them already. Oh and Chad Bridges, yeah, he's just a mess! He tries to act like he could live without us, but nope, he can't! LOL We ate at Letha's, OMG, some dang good BBQ! I also got to meet Gwen and Danny, FINALLY. I've heard about them for so long and it was wonderful to chill with them and just get to know them some. 4th of July was a fantabulous day and we, of course, ate and chilled and swam and ate some more. R. Wayne Cameron and his parents were there too, as was Precious Princess and Harold. Just a great family day. I got burned like crazy, but wouldn't trade the day at all.
Oh and we went to Broma's, this great place and well, R. Wayne had his 12 inches! I'd have never believed it if I didn't see it myself, but he did. Of course, he had to take half home, wimp! They had the best sweet tea and the food really was great. TVogue, miss, oh you gotta have the sweet tea, yep, she got Coke. I'm like, you've been telling me about this tea forever and you have Coke?! LOL, oh well.
Had my physical therapy on Friday after I returned and oh my he hurt me. But, I guess, no pain no gain, right? UGH, I hope so. I went back for the second time yesterday and it wasn't as bad, but still a bit painful.
On Thursday after I returned on Wednesday, Bryon called and said why don't I come to the lake, so I did. LOL, Queenie was already with them, so I meet Bryon at Port Authority and we took the bus out and had the most fabulous dinner. Peter cooked steak and lobster and it was to die for. So good. Neil and Brian came over and we just had a nice evening. The next day we played in the water and then went to Neil and Brian's for dinner and then Sunday we played in the water more and then did some stuff around the house and headed home. Again, another wonderful lake weekend.
Well, that brings us to today, Tuesday. I'm headed to see Pearl at lunch and can't stay long, but I'm in need of a hug, so I must go.
Guess that catches everyone up for now. Ta ta!
Well, I guess I should just do my normal update and then I think blog some other thoughts separately. I know what you are thinking, yeah right, but really, today, I will!
My friend Michelle* was here for a few days after I last blogged and we had the most wonderful time. We went to Angelo's in Little Italy and the food was phenomenal. Her husband got this appetizer that I would normally never have ordered and oh my was it tasty! Her daughter, awesome! She's a very cool kid and very sweet and fun to hang with. She's quite the artist as well. The next night, a VERY RAINY night, we met with our friend John and went to Le Sans Couletts and had dinner. Oh my what a fun experience! It's a French restaurant and the way they do the dinners, so cool. When you sit down they bring out this rack of meats, pepperoni's, salami's and the like, you just cut if off and eat. Then it comes with a basket full of fresh fruits and veggies. Not cut up, whole! This huge carrot, cucumber, lemons, radishes, just there! So cool and very good. I took all the lemons home with me, they were so yumo! Michelle and family left the next day, it was so great to hang with her, rain and all!
I saw Pearl for lunch a few times, she's doing good, remarkably well, considering. I'm going to see her today as well. I also had lunch with Hannah, it had been so long since we'd seen each other. She fell about two months ago and has been a bit confined and not going out as much, but we did lunch and it was wonderful to just chat with her. She's fine from her fall, but now having to use a walker. I plan to see her this weekend, to catch up again.
Oh! OMG! John and I went to see Break Up with Jennifer Anniston! I was so mad at the end. John understood the need, blah, blah, blah! LOL, I told him, I know what you are saying, but that's real life, I go to the movies for fantasy and happy endings! LOL I honestly didn't know that's how it would end, I expected a romantic comedy. Now, had I know I was going to see a dark-not-so-romantic-break-up, then I wouldn't have minded, but don't bill it as a comedy, it wasn't! LOL, bitter party of one, that's me. We then went to this restaurant called Piola and it was good, but I almost had to get in a fight with this biotch sitting next to us. UGH, she made me so mad! John's like, Sundi, it's OK, I'm like, no, (very loudly), it's not, Miss Prima Donna just needs to get over herself! LOL, yes, I know, very Christian, but she was just horrible!
Teresa's parents are in town still so we have been having lots of family time and I've been cooking, T's been cooking, Sarah's (girl down the hall) been cooking and we've been having a really nice time. Sarah brought lobster and cooked it, so yummy. T cooked us some good old Mexican food, mmmmm mmmmmm good!
Bryon, Teresa, Dale and I went to see X-Men 3, such a good movie. My Bryon, I just love him so much, he makes me laugh and everyone else too. We were watching the movie and of course one of the mutants has wings. Well, when he brought those wings out and started to fly, Bryon leans over to Teresa and says, "two words, Bird Flu"! LOL, I almost spit my drink!
That Friday I flew home to Jacksonville where my brother picked me up and we met mama and daddy and went to a seafood buffet. Yep, crab legs, all I could eat! I was in Heaven! The next day we had a reunion at Camp Tracey and that was just the best. There were so many people that I hadn't seen in ages and it was wonderful to catch up with them and just spend the day with everyone. The day was HOT, as only FL can be, but it was worth it all. Sunday started Camp Meeting and I enjoyed being there for the whole thing, until Wednesday. I hadn't been home for that in like 10 years, so it was nice to be there. Queenie had a wonderful time with her Grammy and Papa and even Molly. I also got to see my friend Diana, she and I go so far back and she's the same as she was in high school. Love her and loved that I got to spend some time with her.
We spent a lot of time at Derrick and Barbara's each night after the services and just 'fellowshipped'. That's what I do miss about being part of a big church, that type of connection. I met Malcom Carter, a preacher from Alabama, and he was a hoot and a half. Great man and a wonderful preacher. He and Derrick are great friends and he stayed with them. There was also a singing group that was there and they hung out with us too.
I left on Wednesday and of course, was delayed, but I got home and worked the next day. I was out sick on that Friday, I guess the body just gave out, my shingles were KILLING me and I had a headache and some other issues and I was like, forget it, 3 strikes, I'm out!
I went to see a play with some girls from work. It was called Satellite, it was an off-Broadway and it was pretty good. Sandra Oh, from Grey's Anatomy was in it, she was very good and very convincing. When I got home from the play, I realized I left my wallet in the cab! Thankfully I had no cash in it and only a few credit cards so I got that all cancelled, but the license and the actual wallet, so upset that I lost that. I had just gotten that wallet from Coach, it was a gift! UGH! Made me so mad, I know the cabbie saw it and he could have returned it, but he didn't. Not a believer in Karma, but I hope it bites him in the butt! LOL
Stephanie and Debbie, from Nashville, came into town for a visit. We went to China Town and Little Italy on Saturday and then to see the Lion King that night. It was their first play/musical ever so I was happy I was with them to see it. The show was fabulous, the costuming was so well done. I hadn't seen that one before and I really liked it. Not sure I would go back, but so glad I saw it. After we went to Bubba Gump and had a yummy dinner and the girls got to laugh at some poor soul that almost fell. Whatever it takes to entertain them! LOL
Sunday we went to church and then to the Trailer Park for lunch with Teresa, Dale and Wayne. It was Father's day, so it was nice to have a family dinner. We stopped at Ben and Jerry's on the way to the bus and I got some Wavy Gravy, my day could not get better! LOL That night I took the girls to Lucky Cheng's and well, let's just say, we had a wonderful time. Who knew Stephanie looked so good as a drag queen! LOL And that PP, mighty tasty! Right girls?!
Monday I worked and they shopped and then we met P&B for dinner and this place that used to be a garage and it's now a restaurant, it's called B Bar and Grill. Good food for sure. The company, couldn't beat it. Have I told ya'll that I love my Bryon?! Yep, he is just the best.
Tuesday I worked and they shopped and messed around the city. That night we went to the Color Purple, it was just as wonderful the second time. The girls loved it too, minus the body odor guy in front of Steph! ;) After that we went to a Mexican restaurant and it was very good, but the next day, not doing so well.
I woke up with a migraine and not sure if it was the food or the meds, or the pain or what. I went home at noon and just crashed. The girls left and I slept. I was out sick the next day and then on Friday I worked feeling so sick. Saturday and Sunday I was basically in bed and not doing well. My BP was really high and my pulse was too. When I went to the doctor on Monday the BP was 150 over 99 and the pulse was 100. She put me on some meds and sent me to physical therapy. She's thinking it's the shingles and the lower back issues I always have and my body just anticipating the pain and dealing with all that.
John and Bryon and I met for dinner one night, so glad they finally met. We went to Acme and had a most wonderful time. Three southerners just chilling in the big apple! LOL Oh and yes, we had sweet tea!
That weekend, July 4th weekend, I went to Lucylee's in Mississippi's. It was so great to be with my girls again. We did LOTS of eating, chilling, swimming and watching DVD's. I miss them already. Oh and Chad Bridges, yeah, he's just a mess! He tries to act like he could live without us, but nope, he can't! LOL We ate at Letha's, OMG, some dang good BBQ! I also got to meet Gwen and Danny, FINALLY. I've heard about them for so long and it was wonderful to chill with them and just get to know them some. 4th of July was a fantabulous day and we, of course, ate and chilled and swam and ate some more. R. Wayne Cameron and his parents were there too, as was Precious Princess and Harold. Just a great family day. I got burned like crazy, but wouldn't trade the day at all.
Oh and we went to Broma's, this great place and well, R. Wayne had his 12 inches! I'd have never believed it if I didn't see it myself, but he did. Of course, he had to take half home, wimp! They had the best sweet tea and the food really was great. TVogue, miss, oh you gotta have the sweet tea, yep, she got Coke. I'm like, you've been telling me about this tea forever and you have Coke?! LOL, oh well.
Had my physical therapy on Friday after I returned and oh my he hurt me. But, I guess, no pain no gain, right? UGH, I hope so. I went back for the second time yesterday and it wasn't as bad, but still a bit painful.
On Thursday after I returned on Wednesday, Bryon called and said why don't I come to the lake, so I did. LOL, Queenie was already with them, so I meet Bryon at Port Authority and we took the bus out and had the most fabulous dinner. Peter cooked steak and lobster and it was to die for. So good. Neil and Brian came over and we just had a nice evening. The next day we played in the water and then went to Neil and Brian's for dinner and then Sunday we played in the water more and then did some stuff around the house and headed home. Again, another wonderful lake weekend.
Well, that brings us to today, Tuesday. I'm headed to see Pearl at lunch and can't stay long, but I'm in need of a hug, so I must go.
Guess that catches everyone up for now. Ta ta!
Wednesday, May 31, 2006
Shingles, old lady problem, or Sundi problem?!
Wow, in looking at the actual updates, it's been forever since I've done one. A chronological one anyway. I've done some posts and stuff, but well, here goes another long post! LOL, I guess at least I'm consistent.
April
Went to a new restaurant and it was their opening which was so cool since the food was free! Yummmm, it's called the Alma Grill, my friend works there. Erika and I went and had a great time.
Went to China Town in search of peanuts, found them, boiled them, shared them and ate lots of them. Cooked a "family" meal for P&T and we had a wonderful night. Good southern food. Gotta love that homemade fried chicken, cream corn and peas and beans! YUMO! Went to Erika's family's house for Easter, very nice dinner and enjoyed the time very much. Lots of babies and fun with the Brooklyn Family.
Did my usual Daniel hangouts, love those. We found a new wings place and it's so good. I think they have them all over the US, but it was my first time to try them, Mudville Grill. Love the sauce they use.
My friend Alicia was in her first play in the city, we went, she did a good job and then we went out to the Hard Rock Café in Time's Square. Hadn't been there but I loved it, it's huge and the food is decent. It was a fun night. We got our pic taken and bought the keychain as a souvenir. Fun night with the girls.
Went to LA for my annual Deidre event. Well, that was just the most to say the least! Tons of fun had this year, as usual.
Wednesday - got to LA about 4pm. Got the car after a fight with Priceline and then checked into the hotel. Had dinner with Lisa and Becky, El Torrito and it was so good. Lots of fun and laughs, as usual.
Thursday - Mel's for breakfast, gotta love the Rancho burrito, YUMO! Met up with John and the girls. Went to 3rd Street Promenade and just hung out. Had a great time. More laughs for sure. Oh the things we can come up with.
That night went to Lisa's for a small get together, lots of everything at this event! LOL, let's just say the pics, not all so pretty and can't show all of them to peeps! Security came to the door twice and threatened to call the police! It wasn't even 11:00! I'm like, your neighbors are just pitiful! Oh and this is the night David and I got "acquainted"! LOL, oh, I love that gnome! Got to know my Grillz and Spoonie better and well, LOVE them! UBS and Husker, old news and TVogue, well, hello!
Friday - Mel's again for breakfast and John and the crew met up with us. We all then went to Hollywood Blvd and hung out, did star photo shopping, total blast and then stood and watched the red carpet for the Emmy's. Not for long, but long enough to see Kim Zimmer and lots of Days people. We then went to the Market Place and hung out chillin in Barnes and Noble, John made me spend $50.00 in there! Dang him! LOL, trying to make me more well rounded, hello, don't need help with that! Great books though, I'm working on them as we speak. We all then went to Maggiano's Italian and it was good, but the service SUCKED! OMG, it was bad. But, we had a great time. More and more and more laughs. That HockeyHo and her husband, are a trip, but someone has to clue him into the Hart to Hart thing before we meet again or I might just have to hurt him! LOL Turned my car in and UBS picked us up and took us to our hotel.
Saturday - Deidre's event
Got a bit lost on the way there, but we got there. GREAT day. GREAT pictures, friends, Deidre, Wayne, just a wonderful day all the way around. Deidre just amazes me at her connection with the fans. She makes others just look pathetic. She called me fat, well, chunky, but still, it's the same thing! LOL, I told her, I'll forgive you for calling me fat in front of the entire room, she's like, "chunky, I said chunky!" I'm like, mmmmhmmm, yeah, I know what you said!
That night got to hang with CJ and the girls, we had a total blast and well, yeah, let's just say, laughs beyond laughs. Dior Metallic rocks! Got back to the hotel at like 2:30 in the morning and had to be up at 5:00 for our flight.
Sunday - flight home, slept the whole way!
May
Started off a bit slow, just normal hang outs with P&T and E! and other friends. It's like my favorite thing to do. Someone mentioned to me that I call it hanging out all the time and that's all I do, but in reality, it is. To me there is nothing better than just hanging out, eating, chillin', playing games, or just watching American Idol with your friends. It's just what I LOVE to do.
Went to a baby shower for Danielle and Neo, sweet day that was.
Went to the movies and dinner that night with John. We saw Kinky Boots, oh, that was a good movie! LOL, loads of laughs. James met us and we went to Patsy's to eat dinner, my favorite place. LOVE that pizza.
Went to a wonderful Thai place, can't think of the name of it, for Alex's bday. YUMO food! Thai Salad, to die for! Fun night with all the boys. I love being the only girl.
Chilled most of the next week and then my mama came to town for her 65th bday!
Friday - What a wonderful time we had. I took Friday off and surprised her at my apartment when she thought I was going to be at work. I had flowers and balloons and me! Teresa helped me and we mad the place look so good. Mama was very happy. She brought her walking buddies, Ginny and Bonnie, with her. We did lunch that day at Uno at the Seaport and then walked around lower Manhattan and I told them some history of the places we saw. We got TKT tickets to go see The Light in the Piazza, great play. We went to dinner at Rosie O' Grady's, steak and lobster in the city for $35.00! Can't beat that with a stick. Mama and I went there our first trip here together and the prices, basically haven't gone up at all. It's a really wonderful place and the atmosphere is great as well. Bonnie couldn't get over that we were eating at 11:00 at night! LOL, I'm like welcome to Manhattan!
Saturday - Breakfast at some little place by the house, good food. Went to Battery Park and then took the Staten Island Ferry by to see the Statue of Liberty. Didn't feel like waiting in line for 2 hours to actually go out on the island. Went to get ticket to see the Phantom of the Opera and then went to China Town for shopping. Those ladies can sure shop! Teresa met us and we shopped some and then headed to Little Italy for lunch, so good. I love that place. We went to see the play and did dinner at Ellen's Stardust Diner, love those burgers.
Sunday - Mother's Day - we did church and then Lili's for lunch. After went to the seaport to buy tickets for Hairspray and then went to the apartment and packed them up. We then went to St. Paul's church and walked around over there for them to see all the 9/11 stuff. Then moved them into the condo up on 56th street. The play was early that night and such fun. We did dinner after at Vinyl, the bathrooms alone are worth going for, they are great.
Monday - I worked and they met me for lunch. After work, Rachel came to stay with Queenie and I went to dinner with mama and the girls. We went to a Brazilian place, where they just bring you food and more food and more food. It was good, but I'm not sure even I ate my money's worth, it was just so much food, but really good. I then stayed at the condo with mama and the girls.
Tuesday - Mama's birthday - we got up waaaaaaaaaaay too early and went to the Today Show. We were the first shot of the crowd and we got to see Katie and Al, outside. It rained so bad that they didn't do much outside, but the small bit they did, got us on camera. We then went to Dean and Deluca for coffee and then to Rockefeller Center to shop and look around. Sak's 5th Ave next then St. Patrick's Cathedral then in all the rain, went to Tavern on the Green for brunch then a buggy ride through Central Park. We then walked through the park back to the condo. Chilled a bit and took a nap. I had woke up with a bad pain and welts on my leg, come to find out, shingles! I can't believe I have them, but I do! They are so painful. Didn't know it at the time, but that was rough that day with them. My jeans were soaked and mama dried them for me, she's just the bestest mommy there is! I then left them and went to take care of Queenie and then met them at the View restaurant. It's such a great place for a relaxing, fine dining experience. Mama loves it there as do I. I had gotten there a bit early and dropped her gifts off and then met them. We went through dinner and it was so good. Then the dessert came and the presents. Mama was very excited and happy. Daddy is a good man! The ladies enjoyed the stuff too. I went back to the condo with them and chilled for a bit then had to say good bye. Sad was I.
I think all in all they had a great time. Miss Ginny sent me a thank you note, how sweet, right?! I loved being tour guide and having them here. I like that mama time.
That Thursday, Peter took Bryon and I to see Cirque De Sole, OMG, it was the best show. We had a great time.
The next week, just chilled. Teresa's mama and daddy came to town and we hung out a lot and did games and dinners and just watched TV and stuff. They are here for 2 months, I love them being here, they are just so sweet.
Went to see the Da Vinci Code. Haven't read the book, but it brought up lots of interesting thoughts. I went by myself and had a great afternoon.
Dealing with these shingles are literally a pain in the butt, OK, it's really down my back thigh, but my butt nonetheless! It's like someone is inside my leg, squeezing and pulling my nerves and just won't stop. The doctor has me on some pretty strong meds and it's helped the "outbreak", but the pain is still there. It is less, but not seeming to be going away anytime soon.
I was able to go to the lake for Memorial Day weekend. Bryon and I went out on the bus Friday night and stayed until Monday afternoon. Tosca, P&B's new dog, is really just trying to love Queenie, and well, yeah, boo boo, not having it. She's not aggressive, but just no in the mood to train a puppy. We had a great time at the lake and the girls learned a balance. We did cookouts with the boys and Eileen and then at P&B's as well. I love being out there. The water was too cold to get in, but we did ride in the boat a lot. Robbie Gene and Jonathan came too and it was just a relaxing nice time.
I met my friend Michelle and her family today for lunch, she's in town from FL. Nice to hang with them. We are doing Little Italy tomorrow night. YUMO!
Well, I think that's enough for now! LOL, 4 pages, I so have to be better about this!
April
Went to a new restaurant and it was their opening which was so cool since the food was free! Yummmm, it's called the Alma Grill, my friend works there. Erika and I went and had a great time.
Went to China Town in search of peanuts, found them, boiled them, shared them and ate lots of them. Cooked a "family" meal for P&T and we had a wonderful night. Good southern food. Gotta love that homemade fried chicken, cream corn and peas and beans! YUMO! Went to Erika's family's house for Easter, very nice dinner and enjoyed the time very much. Lots of babies and fun with the Brooklyn Family.
Did my usual Daniel hangouts, love those. We found a new wings place and it's so good. I think they have them all over the US, but it was my first time to try them, Mudville Grill. Love the sauce they use.
My friend Alicia was in her first play in the city, we went, she did a good job and then we went out to the Hard Rock Café in Time's Square. Hadn't been there but I loved it, it's huge and the food is decent. It was a fun night. We got our pic taken and bought the keychain as a souvenir. Fun night with the girls.
Went to LA for my annual Deidre event. Well, that was just the most to say the least! Tons of fun had this year, as usual.
Wednesday - got to LA about 4pm. Got the car after a fight with Priceline and then checked into the hotel. Had dinner with Lisa and Becky, El Torrito and it was so good. Lots of fun and laughs, as usual.
Thursday - Mel's for breakfast, gotta love the Rancho burrito, YUMO! Met up with John and the girls. Went to 3rd Street Promenade and just hung out. Had a great time. More laughs for sure. Oh the things we can come up with.
That night went to Lisa's for a small get together, lots of everything at this event! LOL, let's just say the pics, not all so pretty and can't show all of them to peeps! Security came to the door twice and threatened to call the police! It wasn't even 11:00! I'm like, your neighbors are just pitiful! Oh and this is the night David and I got "acquainted"! LOL, oh, I love that gnome! Got to know my Grillz and Spoonie better and well, LOVE them! UBS and Husker, old news and TVogue, well, hello!
Friday - Mel's again for breakfast and John and the crew met up with us. We all then went to Hollywood Blvd and hung out, did star photo shopping, total blast and then stood and watched the red carpet for the Emmy's. Not for long, but long enough to see Kim Zimmer and lots of Days people. We then went to the Market Place and hung out chillin in Barnes and Noble, John made me spend $50.00 in there! Dang him! LOL, trying to make me more well rounded, hello, don't need help with that! Great books though, I'm working on them as we speak. We all then went to Maggiano's Italian and it was good, but the service SUCKED! OMG, it was bad. But, we had a great time. More and more and more laughs. That HockeyHo and her husband, are a trip, but someone has to clue him into the Hart to Hart thing before we meet again or I might just have to hurt him! LOL Turned my car in and UBS picked us up and took us to our hotel.
Saturday - Deidre's event
Got a bit lost on the way there, but we got there. GREAT day. GREAT pictures, friends, Deidre, Wayne, just a wonderful day all the way around. Deidre just amazes me at her connection with the fans. She makes others just look pathetic. She called me fat, well, chunky, but still, it's the same thing! LOL, I told her, I'll forgive you for calling me fat in front of the entire room, she's like, "chunky, I said chunky!" I'm like, mmmmhmmm, yeah, I know what you said!
That night got to hang with CJ and the girls, we had a total blast and well, yeah, let's just say, laughs beyond laughs. Dior Metallic rocks! Got back to the hotel at like 2:30 in the morning and had to be up at 5:00 for our flight.
Sunday - flight home, slept the whole way!
May
Started off a bit slow, just normal hang outs with P&T and E! and other friends. It's like my favorite thing to do. Someone mentioned to me that I call it hanging out all the time and that's all I do, but in reality, it is. To me there is nothing better than just hanging out, eating, chillin', playing games, or just watching American Idol with your friends. It's just what I LOVE to do.
Went to a baby shower for Danielle and Neo, sweet day that was.
Went to the movies and dinner that night with John. We saw Kinky Boots, oh, that was a good movie! LOL, loads of laughs. James met us and we went to Patsy's to eat dinner, my favorite place. LOVE that pizza.
Went to a wonderful Thai place, can't think of the name of it, for Alex's bday. YUMO food! Thai Salad, to die for! Fun night with all the boys. I love being the only girl.
Chilled most of the next week and then my mama came to town for her 65th bday!
Friday - What a wonderful time we had. I took Friday off and surprised her at my apartment when she thought I was going to be at work. I had flowers and balloons and me! Teresa helped me and we mad the place look so good. Mama was very happy. She brought her walking buddies, Ginny and Bonnie, with her. We did lunch that day at Uno at the Seaport and then walked around lower Manhattan and I told them some history of the places we saw. We got TKT tickets to go see The Light in the Piazza, great play. We went to dinner at Rosie O' Grady's, steak and lobster in the city for $35.00! Can't beat that with a stick. Mama and I went there our first trip here together and the prices, basically haven't gone up at all. It's a really wonderful place and the atmosphere is great as well. Bonnie couldn't get over that we were eating at 11:00 at night! LOL, I'm like welcome to Manhattan!
Saturday - Breakfast at some little place by the house, good food. Went to Battery Park and then took the Staten Island Ferry by to see the Statue of Liberty. Didn't feel like waiting in line for 2 hours to actually go out on the island. Went to get ticket to see the Phantom of the Opera and then went to China Town for shopping. Those ladies can sure shop! Teresa met us and we shopped some and then headed to Little Italy for lunch, so good. I love that place. We went to see the play and did dinner at Ellen's Stardust Diner, love those burgers.
Sunday - Mother's Day - we did church and then Lili's for lunch. After went to the seaport to buy tickets for Hairspray and then went to the apartment and packed them up. We then went to St. Paul's church and walked around over there for them to see all the 9/11 stuff. Then moved them into the condo up on 56th street. The play was early that night and such fun. We did dinner after at Vinyl, the bathrooms alone are worth going for, they are great.
Monday - I worked and they met me for lunch. After work, Rachel came to stay with Queenie and I went to dinner with mama and the girls. We went to a Brazilian place, where they just bring you food and more food and more food. It was good, but I'm not sure even I ate my money's worth, it was just so much food, but really good. I then stayed at the condo with mama and the girls.
Tuesday - Mama's birthday - we got up waaaaaaaaaaay too early and went to the Today Show. We were the first shot of the crowd and we got to see Katie and Al, outside. It rained so bad that they didn't do much outside, but the small bit they did, got us on camera. We then went to Dean and Deluca for coffee and then to Rockefeller Center to shop and look around. Sak's 5th Ave next then St. Patrick's Cathedral then in all the rain, went to Tavern on the Green for brunch then a buggy ride through Central Park. We then walked through the park back to the condo. Chilled a bit and took a nap. I had woke up with a bad pain and welts on my leg, come to find out, shingles! I can't believe I have them, but I do! They are so painful. Didn't know it at the time, but that was rough that day with them. My jeans were soaked and mama dried them for me, she's just the bestest mommy there is! I then left them and went to take care of Queenie and then met them at the View restaurant. It's such a great place for a relaxing, fine dining experience. Mama loves it there as do I. I had gotten there a bit early and dropped her gifts off and then met them. We went through dinner and it was so good. Then the dessert came and the presents. Mama was very excited and happy. Daddy is a good man! The ladies enjoyed the stuff too. I went back to the condo with them and chilled for a bit then had to say good bye. Sad was I.
I think all in all they had a great time. Miss Ginny sent me a thank you note, how sweet, right?! I loved being tour guide and having them here. I like that mama time.
That Thursday, Peter took Bryon and I to see Cirque De Sole, OMG, it was the best show. We had a great time.
The next week, just chilled. Teresa's mama and daddy came to town and we hung out a lot and did games and dinners and just watched TV and stuff. They are here for 2 months, I love them being here, they are just so sweet.
Went to see the Da Vinci Code. Haven't read the book, but it brought up lots of interesting thoughts. I went by myself and had a great afternoon.
Dealing with these shingles are literally a pain in the butt, OK, it's really down my back thigh, but my butt nonetheless! It's like someone is inside my leg, squeezing and pulling my nerves and just won't stop. The doctor has me on some pretty strong meds and it's helped the "outbreak", but the pain is still there. It is less, but not seeming to be going away anytime soon.
I was able to go to the lake for Memorial Day weekend. Bryon and I went out on the bus Friday night and stayed until Monday afternoon. Tosca, P&B's new dog, is really just trying to love Queenie, and well, yeah, boo boo, not having it. She's not aggressive, but just no in the mood to train a puppy. We had a great time at the lake and the girls learned a balance. We did cookouts with the boys and Eileen and then at P&B's as well. I love being out there. The water was too cold to get in, but we did ride in the boat a lot. Robbie Gene and Jonathan came too and it was just a relaxing nice time.
I met my friend Michelle and her family today for lunch, she's in town from FL. Nice to hang with them. We are doing Little Italy tomorrow night. YUMO!
Well, I think that's enough for now! LOL, 4 pages, I so have to be better about this!
Thursday, April 13, 2006
Saw Pearl today...
Only got to stay about 15 minutes. She was very tired, but just so happy that I came by. She was having a rough day. She hadn't had lunch yet and Hospice was coming by, so I left and let her get on with her day.
Manners/weakness/self-expression - connection?
So, I heard an interview today in regards to manners and the person was saying we are so missing them in our world today. I totally agree with that and it got me to thinking, what happened to manners? I haven't brought this up on here, because of just sheer embarrassment, but it fits and will help me explain my thinking. I was going out the other night to meet some friends. It was still cold so I had my big coat on and it's a bubble coat, for lack of a better explanation. The elevator was out and I'm walking down the stairs. This little girl and her mom are coming up the stairs and the girl is about 8 or so. She looks up at me and says, "Where you going fatty?" Well, I was just shocked, as was the mother. The mom starts getting on to the little girl and the little girl is just laughing. She doesn't care. So, what was wrong there? I know children will be children, but that doesn't give them the right to be rude. The mother was mortified and was telling the little girl she would get time out and it didn't phase the child at all. She still just laughed. At that point the mother popped her, I think on the head, and the child yells "Ouch!" The mom's reply, "you think?!" LOL, I did enjoy that part, but the whole experience has really made me think. Are you too lax in our teaching of manners? I think a lot of times people see that if you have manners and don't react, respond or the like, that makes you weak.
When someone wrongs you, and you don't react because it's not "good manners" to be rude, does that send a message to people that you are weak? I know since moving here to NYC, I've felt more free to say things that I probably shouldn't or wouldn't have ever said before. I certainly thought it, but now, I don't know, I feel freer to say them. It certainly doesn't make it right, but it does happen.
When I first relayed the incident to Erika she said, please tell me that the mother didn't say, "sorry, that's just her way of expressing herself?"! I was happy to report that wasn't' the case, but have thought a lot about that too. Are we rearing ill-mannered children that eventually grow into to ill-mannered adults because we allow too much self-expression? I know I don't have children of my own, but I have worked with TONS of children and a lot of rebellious children. I know that the thing they crave the most is consistency and discipline. They really do want to learn boundaries and limitations. Without them, they don't tend to fit into the mix as well. They grow up being completely selfish and so unpleasant to be around. Do you have any friends that have children and you see them coming, with the children in tow, and you automatically cringe?
Of course, as a child, when you have no boundaries and no consequences for your actions, then why not push the envelope? I mean, they are just expressing themselves, right? Unfortunately they will eventually express themselves all the way to jail. I've seen that first hand though Camp Tracey. I hear people say all the time, well, he/she is just being a kid, why not let them? To an extent, I so agree with that, but in other areas, I absolutely do not. The first time they face a police officer, the excuse, I was just being me, won't hold up. You can't just turn the switch at 18 and say, OK, all the "expression" I let you have all these years, it's now time to stop that and be an adult. Doesn't work, but so many people think it does. Studies have shown that children learn the best when they are young, that works for all things, not just math and languages.
Now, remember these are MY thoughts and MY opinions, but I certainly welcome yours.
When someone wrongs you, and you don't react because it's not "good manners" to be rude, does that send a message to people that you are weak? I know since moving here to NYC, I've felt more free to say things that I probably shouldn't or wouldn't have ever said before. I certainly thought it, but now, I don't know, I feel freer to say them. It certainly doesn't make it right, but it does happen.
When I first relayed the incident to Erika she said, please tell me that the mother didn't say, "sorry, that's just her way of expressing herself?"! I was happy to report that wasn't' the case, but have thought a lot about that too. Are we rearing ill-mannered children that eventually grow into to ill-mannered adults because we allow too much self-expression? I know I don't have children of my own, but I have worked with TONS of children and a lot of rebellious children. I know that the thing they crave the most is consistency and discipline. They really do want to learn boundaries and limitations. Without them, they don't tend to fit into the mix as well. They grow up being completely selfish and so unpleasant to be around. Do you have any friends that have children and you see them coming, with the children in tow, and you automatically cringe?
Of course, as a child, when you have no boundaries and no consequences for your actions, then why not push the envelope? I mean, they are just expressing themselves, right? Unfortunately they will eventually express themselves all the way to jail. I've seen that first hand though Camp Tracey. I hear people say all the time, well, he/she is just being a kid, why not let them? To an extent, I so agree with that, but in other areas, I absolutely do not. The first time they face a police officer, the excuse, I was just being me, won't hold up. You can't just turn the switch at 18 and say, OK, all the "expression" I let you have all these years, it's now time to stop that and be an adult. Doesn't work, but so many people think it does. Studies have shown that children learn the best when they are young, that works for all things, not just math and languages.
Now, remember these are MY thoughts and MY opinions, but I certainly welcome yours.
Wednesday, April 12, 2006
Messenger vs. cabbie!
Oh, my, goodness! Gen and I are out at lunch and about to cross the street. A messenger guy on a bicycle comes by, he has the right of way and yep, a cab hits him! Right in front of me and Gen. The messenger guy was OK, but totally shaken up. The cab driver, just sits there, doesn't get out or anything. We all start yelling at him and telling the messenger guy, don't let him get away and get his info and stuff. Finally the cab driver gets out and says, hey dude, you alright?! LOL, I'm like, what? You just hit him with a car and it takes you minutes to finally say, dude you alright?! Oh heck no, we are so going to need more than that!
It brings back my own getting hit in the street story! *shivers* :-)
It brings back my own getting hit in the street story! *shivers* :-)
Tuesday, April 11, 2006
So you want to protest?
Tuesday night I had a meeting at 5:30 on Broadway and Duane. I'm meeting Daniel and need to be on time. Well, I left work at 5:00 on the dot, got to Broadway and Anne and all the streets are closed. I tell the first police officer that I need to get through and he's like, nope, streets are closed. So, I'm like, OK, I'll walk down to Church and go over a few more blocks. It's closed for like 10 blocks. Each police officer I see, not letting me through. I see the person we're meetig with and yell for her, she sees me, and finally I make it through. So, as we get to Broadway, I realize this is the immigration protest! Oh my goodnesss, they are so loud and so big in number. Daniel had to walk from Canal street all the way down, fairly good little walk. It was just really interesting to see all the people and all the signs and flags and everything.
I don't know all the ins and outs of the issue and exactly what they are protesting, but I do find it odd that certain "Americans" are trying to keep "foreigners" out. Aren't we all foreigners, save the Native Americans? It's so crazy to think about it, but I guess some feel that possession really is 9/10ths of the law. We've been here long enough, it's ours. We determine when you can come to our country, we determine if you can be one of us, yet what really is one of us? Do we really have any rights here? We're basically all just borrowing space that really didn't belong to our ancestors and yet we want to deny others of doing exactly that.
I don't know all the ins and outs of the issue and exactly what they are protesting, but I do find it odd that certain "Americans" are trying to keep "foreigners" out. Aren't we all foreigners, save the Native Americans? It's so crazy to think about it, but I guess some feel that possession really is 9/10ths of the law. We've been here long enough, it's ours. We determine when you can come to our country, we determine if you can be one of us, yet what really is one of us? Do we really have any rights here? We're basically all just borrowing space that really didn't belong to our ancestors and yet we want to deny others of doing exactly that.
Wednesday, April 05, 2006
The Guardians
I went to see a play last night, 4/4/06, with Alicia. It was off Broadway and it was called The Guardians. It was the first time I had been to a play that was a narrative. It was different, but pretty good. It was about the Abu Grahib (sp?)prison guard, the woman and the journalist who leaked the pictures. It's fictional, but based on a true story, of course.
It was interesting to see what the writer felt would be this woman's perspective of what happened to her and what took place. It was kind of eye opening. I truly feel that she was wrong in her actions, but were all those actions soley hers or was she following orders? This is, of course, a huge debate and the whole right and wrong aspects, but to see "her" talk about it was really interesting.
At what point do you say no and then at what point do you say yes, but when do you throw the smile in there? Did she smile in the pics because she was really loving what was happening or was it because she felt that's what she was supposed to do to fit in with "the boys?" This play raised very thought provoking questions about motivations, loyalties and ramifications of those two. She compared it to women in pornography in the fact that they all have a smile on their face, but why? Do they do that because that's what's expected of them from men? Do the men care why she's smiling or just the fact that she is?
It was interesting to see what the writer felt would be this woman's perspective of what happened to her and what took place. It was kind of eye opening. I truly feel that she was wrong in her actions, but were all those actions soley hers or was she following orders? This is, of course, a huge debate and the whole right and wrong aspects, but to see "her" talk about it was really interesting.
At what point do you say no and then at what point do you say yes, but when do you throw the smile in there? Did she smile in the pics because she was really loving what was happening or was it because she felt that's what she was supposed to do to fit in with "the boys?" This play raised very thought provoking questions about motivations, loyalties and ramifications of those two. She compared it to women in pornography in the fact that they all have a smile on their face, but why? Do they do that because that's what's expected of them from men? Do the men care why she's smiling or just the fact that she is?
Tuesday's with Pearl...
For whatever reason, it seems that I am going to see her more on Tuesdays. I swear we aren't trying to write a book for Oprah's club! LOL
I went to see her yesterday and it was good to just get a hug. She wasn't doing so well, but she was sitting up in her chair. She's having a few issues, but her spirits were pretty good. While there a friend of hers from West Chester came in, Hannah. Not my Hannah, a different one, but she was a sweet lady. She brought a cake and they insisted that I eat with them. Wasn't really that good, but it wasn't really about the taste, right? It was about the fellowship. Hannah is an x-ray tech, or used to be. She must be in her 70's, and a very sharp lady. She was very intrigued by my southerness, unlike the lady at the play! LOL
It was a nice visit and we've made a date for next week too, yep, on a Tuesday! :-)
I went to see her yesterday and it was good to just get a hug. She wasn't doing so well, but she was sitting up in her chair. She's having a few issues, but her spirits were pretty good. While there a friend of hers from West Chester came in, Hannah. Not my Hannah, a different one, but she was a sweet lady. She brought a cake and they insisted that I eat with them. Wasn't really that good, but it wasn't really about the taste, right? It was about the fellowship. Hannah is an x-ray tech, or used to be. She must be in her 70's, and a very sharp lady. She was very intrigued by my southerness, unlike the lady at the play! LOL
It was a nice visit and we've made a date for next week too, yep, on a Tuesday! :-)
It's snowing!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
OK, that doesn't sound like a big deal, but ummm, yeah, it's April 5th, 2006! It's not just a small snow, it's HUGE flakes and it's coming down pretty heavy! I'm so excited. I so wish it would stick, but I know it won't. Either way, this has made me such a happy girl! Rock on snow!!!!!!!!!!!!
Thursday, March 30, 2006
Southern-ness, that repulsive?...
Last night John and I went to see a play, Tryst. It was a small theater and we were on the front row. During intermission, I stood up, facing him and we were talking. I was a bit tired of sitting, so I decided to stand. So, as we are talking and laughing, as we always do, the woman two seats over from John starts telling me to hush. She said that she didn't need/want to hear my conversation. I said excuse me? I couldn't believe how rude she was. She didn't ask nicely, which btw, still would have made me mad, she was just rude, no manners at all. John turned to her and said, I'm deaf so she has to talk to me like this. LOL Now, honestly I have no clue that my voice carries that much, but obviously it does. But either way, this was intermission and the entire theater had people up, talking, laughing and being loud. It wasn't like I was the only one. I told her she didn't need to be so bitter. She of course didn't look me in the eye after that.
So, after the play, John and I were talking about it and he and I both feel that she wasn't annoyed by the volume, she was really annoyed by the accent. This of course isn't the first time that's happened to me. I am told that I have an accent, but I of course, can't hear it. I don't see how it's so bad. I don't care for a lot of the accents around the world, but I would never tell someone to be quiet because of it. It's called acceptance.
Oh, John also said that he thought she thought she could intimidate me, you know, dumb southerner and all that. When she didn't and I answered back, that's when she wouldn't look at me.
I told John I wanted to stand up on the stage and tell the whole audience that they had to quiet down because the princess in the front row needed it quiet. I really would have done that, some of you know that, but I didn't.
The whole thing just burned me up. Prejudices come in all forms, right?!
Since moving here, I've actually had someone say to me, "I have a southern friend." You know, like I have a gay friend or I have a black friend or a Mexican friend. Never have I felt so much like a minority! LOL
So, after the play, John and I were talking about it and he and I both feel that she wasn't annoyed by the volume, she was really annoyed by the accent. This of course isn't the first time that's happened to me. I am told that I have an accent, but I of course, can't hear it. I don't see how it's so bad. I don't care for a lot of the accents around the world, but I would never tell someone to be quiet because of it. It's called acceptance.
Oh, John also said that he thought she thought she could intimidate me, you know, dumb southerner and all that. When she didn't and I answered back, that's when she wouldn't look at me.
I told John I wanted to stand up on the stage and tell the whole audience that they had to quiet down because the princess in the front row needed it quiet. I really would have done that, some of you know that, but I didn't.
The whole thing just burned me up. Prejudices come in all forms, right?!
Since moving here, I've actually had someone say to me, "I have a southern friend." You know, like I have a gay friend or I have a black friend or a Mexican friend. Never have I felt so much like a minority! LOL
Wednesday, March 29, 2006
F*CK!!!!!...
So, the other night, I'm at dinner with Erika and Paul and I asked them, how many times in a day do you think you hear the F-word? Growing up how I did, I NEVER heard it unless it was a "bad" person or on the movies or something. Well, now, living here in the city, honestly, I hear it so much, I'm immune to it. I never even think about it really. When Mint, Rach and I went to the movies the other night we got there early and I was listening to lots of convos around me. It hit me after a few minutes how many times, in that little amount of time, that word was used. It was in almost every conversation from old people to teenagers.
It's totally cultural around here. I'm not saying that to be critical, it's just a fact. People in this city, and maybe others, but I know NYC for sure, just use this word like it's an every day word. I know for sure that my mouth has become more "potty" since moving here. It's a casualty of living here. When I go home to Jacksonville, I never EVER say those words and here, I don't think about it, they just come out. So, yes, in part of my brain, I know I'm saying them and can stop, but for whatever reason, I don't. It's not a "cool" factor either, it's just a thing. BUT, when I'm home with the units, yeah, not even an issue. Although when I was home last time, I did say something about the freaking this or that. I used freaking, but the reverend caught on real quick and we had a discussion about it! LOL, Yeah, I felt as though I had traveled back in time and I was 15 again!
So, what do you think? Is it cultural, is it all about the "cool" factor or what?
It's totally cultural around here. I'm not saying that to be critical, it's just a fact. People in this city, and maybe others, but I know NYC for sure, just use this word like it's an every day word. I know for sure that my mouth has become more "potty" since moving here. It's a casualty of living here. When I go home to Jacksonville, I never EVER say those words and here, I don't think about it, they just come out. So, yes, in part of my brain, I know I'm saying them and can stop, but for whatever reason, I don't. It's not a "cool" factor either, it's just a thing. BUT, when I'm home with the units, yeah, not even an issue. Although when I was home last time, I did say something about the freaking this or that. I used freaking, but the reverend caught on real quick and we had a discussion about it! LOL, Yeah, I felt as though I had traveled back in time and I was 15 again!
So, what do you think? Is it cultural, is it all about the "cool" factor or what?
Peal update...
I went to see her last Tuesday and she was doing so much better. She was going to a dinner that night, honoring her. She was so excited and very glad to see me too. We walked around the building and she talked to everyone that came by. She's just something else. I swear, in a way, she and I are just alike. I don't know that she has ever met a stranger.
They did a write up on her in the Downtown Express, check it out. How cute is she?
I went to see her yesterday too. She was running around, as best she can, giving orders and so I got the job of cooking her some noodles! It seems that the pain meds they have given her are like a miracle drug. They had to stop the chemo because it was messing with her white blood cells, but they are trying this new pain medication on her. Ever since they gave this to her, she is more mobile, alert and not in as much pain. She's so very happy to have it. It's not taking the cancer away, of course, but it's allowing her to live her life better. She's still not doing what she did before, but she's at least out of the bed.
They did a write up on her in the Downtown Express, check it out. How cute is she?
I went to see her yesterday too. She was running around, as best she can, giving orders and so I got the job of cooking her some noodles! It seems that the pain meds they have given her are like a miracle drug. They had to stop the chemo because it was messing with her white blood cells, but they are trying this new pain medication on her. Ever since they gave this to her, she is more mobile, alert and not in as much pain. She's so very happy to have it. It's not taking the cancer away, of course, but it's allowing her to live her life better. She's still not doing what she did before, but she's at least out of the bed.
March wrap-up
So, February ended with a bang, well, it was supposed to. I went out with Erika and Kym for Fat Tuesday but we went to two seperate places and they were both so croweded, we ended up having Puerto Rican food. It was good, but not what I envisioned for Fat Tuesday.
Went to a going away party for Gerald and Carl, the food FABULOUS, the view, FABULOUS! OMG, this apartment was off the chain. The view from their bedroom, guest room and dinning room, the Empire State building and no, you didn't have to strain to see it. It was right there. We went for a look off the roof, AMAZING! It was just beautiful, cold as all get out, but beautiful.
Been doing a lot of dinners with friends. Rach, Mint and I seem to gravitate to BBQ's no matter what. LOL, we've eaten there so many times, but we love it.
Got my taxes done, yippee! Not! How can I owe the government that much money? It's so not right.
Went to dinner at an Italian Place, very similar to Patsy's, so good. There were like 10 of us that went, total blast and LOADS of laughs.
Family nights are going strong. P, T, E, and I try to get together at least once a week. We usually go to P&T 's house and we end up playing scrabble, yeah, I suck at it. I lost again this week and let's not even get started on the Farkle game, I lost by so much, it was almost an art.
T, E and I went shopping on 8th Street, shoe heaven, and T got the coolest boots. E got her hair did! LOL We ate at Johnny Rockets, I LOVE that place.
Went to the movies and dinner with my Bryon, we saw King Kong, we hadn't seen it and wanted to see it on the big screen. It was good, but so long.
Hung out with Wendy and Mint one night, total blast at Peculiar.
For St. Patrick's day, we had plans to go to some place in Lower Manhattan, we ended up at Foxhounds, which was great with me. Great time had by all. Luck of the Irish to ya!
Went to Bubby's for breakfast with P, T and their friends and it was so yum! Sitting a table over from us, John Stewart! Yep, Mr. I hosted the Oscars!
Peter had a recital at his apartment and oh was it good. He and two other pianists played and they were wonderful. We had about 25 there and the food, music and fellowship were just wonderful. Went to Ramon's after, his view, the Chysler Building! Dang it, I want that! LOL
Had to go meet Daniel one day and I was so late. I had gotten the wrong street and was so lost. Finally found out where I needed to be and as I'm walking down to mee him, yep, there filming a movie, George Clooney! OMG, he is just YUMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMY! He's just hot.
Went to see Thank You For Smoking, great movie. Critics didn't like it, but I sure did. I laughed so much, it's so funny and true in and sad way. Kind of an eye opener for sure.
Also saw Final Destination 3, SUCKED! Do not waste your time. *note to self, Mint and Rach do not pick the movie ever again! Went from Bubba Gump, such a great meal to a sucky movie.
Went to a going away party for Gerald and Carl, the food FABULOUS, the view, FABULOUS! OMG, this apartment was off the chain. The view from their bedroom, guest room and dinning room, the Empire State building and no, you didn't have to strain to see it. It was right there. We went for a look off the roof, AMAZING! It was just beautiful, cold as all get out, but beautiful.
Been doing a lot of dinners with friends. Rach, Mint and I seem to gravitate to BBQ's no matter what. LOL, we've eaten there so many times, but we love it.
Got my taxes done, yippee! Not! How can I owe the government that much money? It's so not right.
Went to dinner at an Italian Place, very similar to Patsy's, so good. There were like 10 of us that went, total blast and LOADS of laughs.
Family nights are going strong. P, T, E, and I try to get together at least once a week. We usually go to P&T 's house and we end up playing scrabble, yeah, I suck at it. I lost again this week and let's not even get started on the Farkle game, I lost by so much, it was almost an art.
T, E and I went shopping on 8th Street, shoe heaven, and T got the coolest boots. E got her hair did! LOL We ate at Johnny Rockets, I LOVE that place.
Went to the movies and dinner with my Bryon, we saw King Kong, we hadn't seen it and wanted to see it on the big screen. It was good, but so long.
Hung out with Wendy and Mint one night, total blast at Peculiar.
For St. Patrick's day, we had plans to go to some place in Lower Manhattan, we ended up at Foxhounds, which was great with me. Great time had by all. Luck of the Irish to ya!
Went to Bubby's for breakfast with P, T and their friends and it was so yum! Sitting a table over from us, John Stewart! Yep, Mr. I hosted the Oscars!
Peter had a recital at his apartment and oh was it good. He and two other pianists played and they were wonderful. We had about 25 there and the food, music and fellowship were just wonderful. Went to Ramon's after, his view, the Chysler Building! Dang it, I want that! LOL
Had to go meet Daniel one day and I was so late. I had gotten the wrong street and was so lost. Finally found out where I needed to be and as I'm walking down to mee him, yep, there filming a movie, George Clooney! OMG, he is just YUMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMY! He's just hot.
Went to see Thank You For Smoking, great movie. Critics didn't like it, but I sure did. I laughed so much, it's so funny and true in and sad way. Kind of an eye opener for sure.
Also saw Final Destination 3, SUCKED! Do not waste your time. *note to self, Mint and Rach do not pick the movie ever again! Went from Bubba Gump, such a great meal to a sucky movie.
Wednesday, March 08, 2006
Monday...
I went to see Pearl on Monday. She seemed a bit better than she did on Sunday, but she was still very weak. When I got there, a lady was there talking with her about her meds, so I didn't stay long at all. I hugged her, talked to her for about 5 mintues and then left. I was on my lunch break, so I couldn't stay as long as I wanted to anyway.
I called today and she was sleeping, she's doing that a lot lately. The aide said she would pass my message along to her, I hope she really does. I don't want Pearl to think I'm not checking on her.
I'm dealing with some allergy/cold stuff so I'm afraid to go over to see her, the last thing she would need is me getting her sick.
I called today and she was sleeping, she's doing that a lot lately. The aide said she would pass my message along to her, I hope she really does. I don't want Pearl to think I'm not checking on her.
I'm dealing with some allergy/cold stuff so I'm afraid to go over to see her, the last thing she would need is me getting her sick.
Sunday, March 05, 2006
Hospice...
I went to see Pearl today after church. She was in bed and not able to talk much at all. I hugged her and she just hugged me as tight as she could. She told me they have called Hospice in. I'm not sure how much time they have given her, but it's not going to be long at all. She told me that she's ready for it to be over.
To see this vibrant person turned into this shell of what she once was is very hard.
I told her I would come by every day, if for nothing else but to just hug her. She said she wanted that so much.
To see this vibrant person turned into this shell of what she once was is very hard.
I told her I would come by every day, if for nothing else but to just hug her. She said she wanted that so much.
Saturday, March 04, 2006
Pearl...
My friend Pearl is 91. I met her a few years ago when I started volunteering for the Hallmark. She was fiesty and independent and funny and sweet and just a joy to be around. She and I became friends and would go to dinner, plays, Atlantic City, and just hang out together. She and a another lady there, became my surrogate grandmothers for me. I have always had a love of older people. I love to hear the stories, hang out with them and get to know them. Pearl and I are friends and I adore her.
About a month and a half ago, I went to see her and found out that she had just been told she has pancreatic cancer. This has totally changed her, of course. She was always in a meeting for the community, going to the YWCA for bridge and leading the Hallmark in all kinds of events. For the last month and a half, she's just lost the ability to do anything. She has lost so much weight and just can't function much at all. I've tried to go visit her but when I call, she's not up for it. I'm going to try again tomorrow after church. I hope I can see her then.
She's just a sweetheart and thinking that she will not be here, is hard. I just lost my last grandparent in August and to lose a surrograte grandma so soon, just seems so unfair.
About a month and a half ago, I went to see her and found out that she had just been told she has pancreatic cancer. This has totally changed her, of course. She was always in a meeting for the community, going to the YWCA for bridge and leading the Hallmark in all kinds of events. For the last month and a half, she's just lost the ability to do anything. She has lost so much weight and just can't function much at all. I've tried to go visit her but when I call, she's not up for it. I'm going to try again tomorrow after church. I hope I can see her then.
She's just a sweetheart and thinking that she will not be here, is hard. I just lost my last grandparent in August and to lose a surrograte grandma so soon, just seems so unfair.
Sunday, February 26, 2006
2006!!!!!!!! It's here!
Yes, I know this post is way late in getting here, but you know, it's me.
I had a great end to the year and the beginning of a new one. The last week of the year, I had dinner with Daniel, took Queenie to Macy's, met up with Mint and went to Cafe Rafella's for dinner, went shopping with Teresa, bought a watch for myself for Christmas, went to Chipotle for the first time, went to Victoria Secret and went to a New Year's Eve party at Neil and Brian's. The New Year's Eve party was so much fun and I had a new party dress and everything. Erika went with me and we just had so much fun.
The first week of the new year, I hung with Mint, Pearl and Rachel and had black eyed peas. Of course, I am still southern! I also went to Ruth's Chris for dinner, love those friends with vendors. I had dinner with Bryon at One and One and he took Queenie with him and I headed to Orlando to have a fun weekend with Lucylee and TVogue, Chad and Precious princess.
We had a wonderful time in Orlando. It was so good to see everyone and just hang out. We had fabulous dinners and laughed a lot! Oh and I tried the Crustables, PB&J for the first time, LOVED them! LOL We did Disney, MGM, Epcot and the Animal Kingdom.
We had a suite so we all got to stay together, it was perfect. Chad was his usual loving self, and by that I mean, he picked at me and Precious Princess the whole weekend.
Came back that week and had a quiet week, got Queenie and then had family night at Foxhound's.
That weekend I hoped a bus to Williamsport, PA to see Bev and Karen. We had a great weekend and just hung out together. Bev is just the best hostess. We watched tapes, Deidre, and then ate a lot! LOL. We went to Bev's granddaughter's basketball game and then to lunch with her son and daughter-in-law and I finally got to meet Owen. He's so cute. Adam, Karen's son, and Shania had a good time playing while we chilled out together. They were jumping on the trampoling in the freezing cold, but having a great time. :-) I came home on Monday, which was a holiday.
Went to see the doc about the back, she gave me some meds, thank goodness, but then I was home for two days with my back being out. It hurt so bad!
Had to say goodbye to Anne Mabry, from Mosaic, she moved back to Nashville. We will so miss her.
Met John and James at Puttanesca for dinner and then went to see a play, great play, very dramatic, but great. It was with Tyne Daly and Cynthia Nixon.
The next week, so quiet, just did some dinner with P&T and played some scrabble and one night at Foxhounds.
That Friday, I went to Boston for the weekend. Had a horrible ride out there, took almost 3 hours longer than it should have because of the bus breaking down. Went to a party while there, had fun and then came home. The bus ride home on Sunday took 3 hours 30 minutes! That's the way it should be.
Went to BBQ's with E! And then Foxhounds to meet up with P&T. Had a physical this week, all came back OK. Went to see the Chiropractor for the first time. I think he helped, but he's so expensive, not sure if I can keep up going or not. Had dinner with Bill and Daniel for Bill's bday. Went to Rolf's a German place, pretty cool.
Went to shop for ski clothes, Teresa went with me, so glad she did. Got what I needed, we tried a new Thai place, YUMMMMMM! Left there and went to Downey's for her birthday and then we went to City Island in the Bronx, Tito Puente's, that was so good. I had crab legs and we had tons of fun and laughed all night.
Took Queenie to P&B's and they kept her for me while I went skiing with the family. We went to Keystone Colorado and had the most wonderful time. I LOVED the place we stayed, the skiing was great and we got a day at Vail which was unbelievable! The skiing there was the best. I see why people love it so much. It was great to be with the fam. We cooked most nights and just chilled watching the Olympics. We also went on a sleigh ride to a cabin and had dinner and then the day before we left we went snowmobiling. SO MUCH FUN. That is just the most fun, I was so addicted to it by the time we left. I can't wait to do that again. Derrick, who broke his collar bone, wasn't supposed to ski so much, but he skied each day with me and we had the best time and didn't fall at all, so he came home in one piece.
When I got home I had visitors, Michelle and Lisa. We had a nice visit, but it was too short, as usual. Did our hang out thing and I took them to Tiffany. Can't believe in all the times they've been here, they've never been to Tiffany. We went to Cowgirl, Southwest NY and then hung out at Paul's with E!. Fun times, as always. They left on Sunday.
Chilled the whole next week, getting back into the work groove. Dinner one night at P&T's, did scrabble.
On Friday, our office bought 76 lottery tickets, yeah, didn't win! LOL
Friday night went to Brian and Neil's. Chilled with them because on Saturday they had to put Max down. He was 14 and was really sick, so we all just hung out, had some pizza and loved on them and Max.
Saturday I met Bryon at BBQ's and then we went to see a movie, Transamerica. Very good. After we went to SoHo to MAC. I got my makeup done and then I went home, took Queenie out and headed back to BBQ's to meet Mint and Rach. We then went to Babeland, One and One and then Hen's. Fun day and night all around!
Well, I guess that does wrap up my latest update. Hmmm, should I wait this long again? Yeah, I'm going to say no!
I had a great end to the year and the beginning of a new one. The last week of the year, I had dinner with Daniel, took Queenie to Macy's, met up with Mint and went to Cafe Rafella's for dinner, went shopping with Teresa, bought a watch for myself for Christmas, went to Chipotle for the first time, went to Victoria Secret and went to a New Year's Eve party at Neil and Brian's. The New Year's Eve party was so much fun and I had a new party dress and everything. Erika went with me and we just had so much fun.
The first week of the new year, I hung with Mint, Pearl and Rachel and had black eyed peas. Of course, I am still southern! I also went to Ruth's Chris for dinner, love those friends with vendors. I had dinner with Bryon at One and One and he took Queenie with him and I headed to Orlando to have a fun weekend with Lucylee and TVogue, Chad and Precious princess.
We had a wonderful time in Orlando. It was so good to see everyone and just hang out. We had fabulous dinners and laughed a lot! Oh and I tried the Crustables, PB&J for the first time, LOVED them! LOL We did Disney, MGM, Epcot and the Animal Kingdom.
We had a suite so we all got to stay together, it was perfect. Chad was his usual loving self, and by that I mean, he picked at me and Precious Princess the whole weekend.
Came back that week and had a quiet week, got Queenie and then had family night at Foxhound's.
That weekend I hoped a bus to Williamsport, PA to see Bev and Karen. We had a great weekend and just hung out together. Bev is just the best hostess. We watched tapes, Deidre, and then ate a lot! LOL. We went to Bev's granddaughter's basketball game and then to lunch with her son and daughter-in-law and I finally got to meet Owen. He's so cute. Adam, Karen's son, and Shania had a good time playing while we chilled out together. They were jumping on the trampoling in the freezing cold, but having a great time. :-) I came home on Monday, which was a holiday.
Went to see the doc about the back, she gave me some meds, thank goodness, but then I was home for two days with my back being out. It hurt so bad!
Had to say goodbye to Anne Mabry, from Mosaic, she moved back to Nashville. We will so miss her.
Met John and James at Puttanesca for dinner and then went to see a play, great play, very dramatic, but great. It was with Tyne Daly and Cynthia Nixon.
The next week, so quiet, just did some dinner with P&T and played some scrabble and one night at Foxhounds.
That Friday, I went to Boston for the weekend. Had a horrible ride out there, took almost 3 hours longer than it should have because of the bus breaking down. Went to a party while there, had fun and then came home. The bus ride home on Sunday took 3 hours 30 minutes! That's the way it should be.
Went to BBQ's with E! And then Foxhounds to meet up with P&T. Had a physical this week, all came back OK. Went to see the Chiropractor for the first time. I think he helped, but he's so expensive, not sure if I can keep up going or not. Had dinner with Bill and Daniel for Bill's bday. Went to Rolf's a German place, pretty cool.
Went to shop for ski clothes, Teresa went with me, so glad she did. Got what I needed, we tried a new Thai place, YUMMMMMM! Left there and went to Downey's for her birthday and then we went to City Island in the Bronx, Tito Puente's, that was so good. I had crab legs and we had tons of fun and laughed all night.
Took Queenie to P&B's and they kept her for me while I went skiing with the family. We went to Keystone Colorado and had the most wonderful time. I LOVED the place we stayed, the skiing was great and we got a day at Vail which was unbelievable! The skiing there was the best. I see why people love it so much. It was great to be with the fam. We cooked most nights and just chilled watching the Olympics. We also went on a sleigh ride to a cabin and had dinner and then the day before we left we went snowmobiling. SO MUCH FUN. That is just the most fun, I was so addicted to it by the time we left. I can't wait to do that again. Derrick, who broke his collar bone, wasn't supposed to ski so much, but he skied each day with me and we had the best time and didn't fall at all, so he came home in one piece.
When I got home I had visitors, Michelle and Lisa. We had a nice visit, but it was too short, as usual. Did our hang out thing and I took them to Tiffany. Can't believe in all the times they've been here, they've never been to Tiffany. We went to Cowgirl, Southwest NY and then hung out at Paul's with E!. Fun times, as always. They left on Sunday.
Chilled the whole next week, getting back into the work groove. Dinner one night at P&T's, did scrabble.
On Friday, our office bought 76 lottery tickets, yeah, didn't win! LOL
Friday night went to Brian and Neil's. Chilled with them because on Saturday they had to put Max down. He was 14 and was really sick, so we all just hung out, had some pizza and loved on them and Max.
Saturday I met Bryon at BBQ's and then we went to see a movie, Transamerica. Very good. After we went to SoHo to MAC. I got my makeup done and then I went home, took Queenie out and headed back to BBQ's to meet Mint and Rach. We then went to Babeland, One and One and then Hen's. Fun day and night all around!
Well, I guess that does wrap up my latest update. Hmmm, should I wait this long again? Yeah, I'm going to say no!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
