I Feel Like I've Hit the Lottery!!

Today was spectacular! I keep wondering what I've done to deserve this!!?? I arrived in the office about 6:30 A.M. and started getting things organized. A little while later the office secretary arrived. Right away she brought me supplies and made a few phone calls to get my office computer and phone hooked up. I'm really getting the "royal" treatment here and I'm just not accustomed to that! But...it sure is nice.

Today at nine was an all-day meeting with the Execs I'm supporting and I loved that too! They already know me and so one by one they walked in and greeted me with a hearty welcome and said it was good to have me back. It's nice to have that kind of rapport with the people I will be working for. In fact, I will be reporting to multiple bosses: four VP's and at least one Sr. VP (possibly two) and that suits me just fine!!

I ran into a few old colleagues today and they jumped up and down when they saw me. Well...that might be a tiny exaggeration, but at least that's how it felt. What a warm reception I got!! Wow! I think they've actually missed me!

Even the commute was awesome.Three metro stops and I was there. How easy is that??? Although I still did a lot of walking today. The metro was about two blocks from the hotel and the meeting was in another building too. With all that walking, my poor little piggy toes hurt! One thing I forgot to bring from home are my cute little flat black shoes, so I will definitely be buying me a new pair. These crazy heels have just got to go! I'm way too old for this! But, it's a small price to pay actually... It's g-r-e-a-a-t to be home!! JUST GREAT!

I Must Be a Bit Bored!

Yes I definitely must be bored because here I am snapping photos out my hotel window. I'm still in awe that I can see the Pentagon and so much of Washington, DC from my windows. I've been sitting here watching the planes land at National Airport. This first photo shows the Pentagon and the Washington Monument to the right.

This other one is a hazy Washington view of the Capitol.

The round building in the third photo is the rooftop restaurant at the top of the Double Tree. I plan to have dinner there soon because, as I recall, it's a million dollar view. Anyone care to join me?

Jazz is being lazy...he's just lounging around. I've been watching a little news this evening and pretty soon I'm going to start getting ready to wrap it up for the evening. I want to get a good night's rest and get up early to make my way into Washington! This is VERY exciting!!!

Where's That Music Coming From?

This morning I was using the hotel computer. I had been having some trouble getting a connection with my laptop...probably user error. At any rate, I went down to the business center after breakfast. While I was there I heard some music...live rhythm guitar, bass, and tambourine etc. Well the curiosity got to me. I had to check it out.

I walked across the hall and entered one of the conference rooms. Turns out it was a young Christian worship group tuning up for their Sunday morning service at the hotel. I decided to join them; worship was to start in twenty minutes. So I hurried back to my room, grabbed some money for the offering and went right back. There was no need to change, everyone dressed casually; I went just as I was in shorts and sandals.

I enjoyed the music and the message. The lesson was about making time on Sunday for worship. How appropriate is that?!? The other focus was that "God does not keep score of our mistakes, if so, none of us would be worthy of coming before him." I believe that should apply to friendships and family as well. Imagine how life could be if we could try to be more like Jesus and accept each other as we are...and not worry about keeping score!! Both messages were timely.

This was a bible-based non-denominational church, The Christian and Missionary Alliance. And it was attended by mostly young college age students. I couldn't help but notice this congregation is predominately Asian. Not sure why, I don't believe that is part of their mission, but I do know that new congregations tend to spread by word of mouth so I'm guessing it was friend telling friend, telling friend. At any rate, this old gal was greeted with open arms by these fine young people. The church reaches out to do missionary work all over the world and right now have some folks in Cambodia. It was nice to start my morning surrounded by such nice individuals.

The first song of the worship was Amazing Grace. It made me smile; it's one of my favorites!! And they even added a modern stanza at the end, putting a new contemporary twist on this old faithful. It was a nice merging of old and new. Hm-m-m pretty much how I felt about being among this congregation.

After church I went to lunch in Crystal City with a work friend. Now it's just me and Jazz here in the hotel. It's a quiet and laid back Sunday afternoon. Just what I needed as I'm gearing up to start my new assignment in the AM. I'm looking forward to it!

Oh and check out the photos of Jazzy B (B for Boy of course)! I just added them to the previous blog. I finally got my technologies all working!!

We Made it Safe and Sound!

Jazz and I arrived here about ten o'clock last night. It was mostly an "uneventful" 12 hour trip. The first three hours I enjoyed a serenade...pretty much non-stop. Jazz was not sure about this whole car-ride thing. Finally after what seemed like forever, he settled down and took a little cat nap. Then he got up, washed his paws and decided the trip was not quite so bad. The rest of the journey...I didn't hear a peep from him. I'm thinking he will be a pretty darn good traveling companion after all.

We got checked into the hotel here in Pentagon City and I managed to haul Jazz and a handful of other things up from the car. Once I got him settled in, I made a few more trips to and from the garage with our bare essentials. The rest of the stuff will stay in the car until I find an apartment.

When we got to our room, Jazz checked it entirely...he looked all around, sniffed everything and finally gave it a "paws up!" Thank Goodness it passed his inspection, not a bit of howling etc. In fact I'm sure I heard him say: "This is the life of Riley." And I agree.

Next thing, Jazz jumped right up and sprauled out on the bed. He thought it was pretty nice to be able to stretch out after being cooped up in that cat carrier all day. He especially enjoyed sitting up on the back of the chair next to the window to see the planes land at National Airport.

For me, well I think it's great to once again be able to gaze upon the Washington Monument and the Capitol...even if it is from a distance. And from the hallway I can look right out on the Pentagon. It's directly across the street from this hotel. How cool is that? I can practically wave at my dear friend Shelley!!

This morning I awoke to Jazz sitting at my side, with his paws propped on my arm. His nose was just inches from mine and he was intently staring into my face. I think he was trying to mentally coax me awake. I said, "Good morning Jazz!" And all I could do is smile. What a cute way to wake up, looking into the face of a cat who adores me!

And There's Shopping!
A few hours later I walked over to Pentagon City Mall for a coffee and while I was out I checked out a cool apartment in Pentagon Row. I may just have to jump on that!! It's directly above a courtyard of little restaurants and pubs. And there is live music in the courtyard every Thursday evening. That's right up my alley!!

The metro access is just downstairs in the building. I wouldn't even have to go outside to commute to work. Now that's a plus on rainy days and especially once winter sets in. Also...if I was coming home from the metro after dark, I would feel much safer being able to avoid walking on the streets by myself. I can get it fully furnished and even though that costs a bit more, I'm thinking it would be well worth it. It would sure be nice to avoid the hastle of slogging stuff back and forth to furnish an apartment for just six months. At this stage in the game convenience is worth paying for!!

This afternoon I drove out to Leesburg to Lisa's house. She was having her in-law's over for her father-in-law's birthday, so I joined them. It was sure great to see family again!! And her mother-in-law made my favorite...dolmas! She couldn't have known I was coming...because I decided on the spur of the moment...it was just another "coincidence." So was the Bass Tracker fishing boat that was sitting across the street (just like Kenny's) and the YELLOW '63 Corvette convertable I saw on my way home (just like we used to have). Coincidence? I don't think so!

There's No Place Like Home

By the time most of you read this I will be well on my way! I set this one to post automatically so that Jazz and I could hit the road by 6 AM without delay. With any luck that's how it went this morning...and hopefully Jazz has already started settling down...

Here is a cool video from You Tube, click on the arrow to watch it. It features one of my favorite movies...The Wizard of Oz. It's creatively set to Contemporary music and it reminds me a lot of me and my journey!! Just imagine that Toto is my Jazz. Glenda...hm-m-m Rhonda? The Wizard...well that would be the guy I'll be working for at Headquarters: John.

Hey...and my buddy Tin Man (Alex) is featured in this too! The witch?? Can't quite pinpoint that one!! But, hm-m-m could this be Oz? Hm-m-m? While I've been here I may have even seen a horse of a different color!!

At any rate, best wishes to my friends in the South...stay in touch with me by phone, e-mail, and blog comments!! I will MISS YOU!!! See you in 6 months!

We are Ready!

Well almost... The car is nearly packed, but I'm bushed so I'll finish the rest in the AM. Things were going along just fine until this afternoon when we had a bit of a distraction.

Not to be gross with details...but we took a fun emergency "deworming" trip to the vet's office. It was totally unexpected. So needless to say, I had failed to figure it into my getting ready timeline. So-o-o we got a little behind schedule. Of course I was already behind because of the virus I've been fighting since last week. So today with the Jazz escapade...if it hadn't been so comical...I would have been crying! But ya just have to laugh!!

So now Jazz is fit as a fiddle and so am I. Eighty-four bucks and a few choked down pills took care of things for kitty cat. And a couple days of antibiotic and a little rest here and there took care of me too! I just have a little tiny tickle and occasional cough now and then.

We are nearly good to go. The car is in the ready position and is filled to the brim. Shrek is sitting proudly between the two front seats and pink poodle is on the dash. The bills are done...my files are packed, the fridge is clean. We are just about ready...and I'm finally turning in...tired. Will have to run around a bit in the AM. Have a few more things to pack and need to take out the trash, but we should still be able to hit the road pretty close to on schedule.

Jazz is Ready to Go!

Not too much left to do. Jazz and I worked pretty late last night. We have just a few odds and ends left to finish...then we will start packing the car! It will be good to finish up so we can get on the road early in the AM tomorrow.

My Team

Wow! Because I was out sick last week, I didn't get to say good-bye to my team and it feels so strange to be leaving them for six months. I miss them already! I've got some great individuals working for me. They are all different and unique in their own special way.

April is my computer genius! I have to admit that I'm a bit technologically challenged, but April has always been ready to come to my rescue. And I have leaned on her frequently to bail me out. She too, has cats in her life, so we have this mutual connection and seem to love many of the same things. She loves nature and so do I. April has a generous heart for animals and creatures of all kinds.

Angela and Gaylynn are my newest promotions. They will lead the strategic and operational performance functions. They are doing a fine job juggling their overlapping assignments. We are a bit short-staffed and have been for a long time. Even though they carry multiple assignments, they are doing it well. Gaylynn is methodical, a quick study, and detailed to the point.

Angela connects easily with people because of her soft-spoken personality. Personally she has had a challenging year; she lost an Uncle, her Mom has not been well, and she's persevered through some other tough situations, but no one would know! She hasn't missed a beat, regardless of the many responsibilities on her plate...and her children are her priority number ONE! They are lucky kids and are blessed to have such a devoted Mom!

Now John, he's a character. He is from Headquarters and is full of confidence...one of the most important traits for success! He is also very "tongue in cheek" FUNNY! He keeps us all laughing!! John has a calm, charismatic personae. In the beginning I found myself wondering what he was up to...but I've learned that he's methodical and paces himself to get the job done on-time!! I've even teased him that he came equipped with the more "modern" brain-cells because he is up with the times, fast thinking, computer literate. A real asset to this old gal!!

Our other Angela...can you believe there are two? She is quiet, but under the surface takes charge. She has met with some forceful personalities on the national team when coordinating to get stuff accomplished. Yet she continues to keep her beautiful smile regardless of what she is experiencing under the surface! She is steady and never loses her cool. Our team really looks up to her!

Our secretary...now in transition to a management and program analyst ...Tamisha! Oh my, what can I say? This gal is really something too!! She is another one who came to us from Headquarters and I thank my lucky stars for this employee!! I mentioned her earlier in my blog and I know over the years I will watch her soar. She is extremely capable, but attitude is her greatest attribute. She has worked for months juggling priorities for several "bosses." Now that's the toughest job of all. Yet, I've rarely seen her mood deviate from joyful, pleasant, happy, helpful. This one is memorable!! I will miss her smiling face and her help keeping me on track.

Darrell, one of my newest staff members has also made quite an impression on me. He is a retired employee, back as a contractor...and has a world of experience to bring to this team. He too is quiet...but is determined and hard-working. He recently returned home early from the U.S. Open to work on a deadline. Now that's dedication! He came to me highly recommended and it's easy to see why people have so much respect for this gentleman.

Two employees who have recently left the team for "greener pastures" are Larry and Dianne. They are not only prior staffers of mine, but are now dear friends. Both of them have solid work ethics; I could always count on them to deliver. Larry too has years of experience commanding naval officers...so I relied on him tremendously for his solid, integrity-filled advice. Dianne is creative, clever, capable and hard working. And...there is no one with such a great southern drawl as she!!! From Dianne, I've learned to use the expression:

"W-e-l-l...I reckon!!!"

But what's most important about this team are the friendships...the connections, the ties we've all developed. We've had some rough days and a few misunderstandings along the way, but this team...that I fondly refer to as "my team"...has seen me through the most difficult year of my life! They tolerated my grief even when they didn't quite understand it. And for that...well how can I ever repay them?

Good luck and God-speed Performance Analysis Team!! I know you will continue to do a great job while I'm gone. I do hope you will occasionally pick up the phone and give me a call while I'm away at Headquarters. I will miss each and every one of you and will look forward to hearing your voices over the wire. Thank you for all you've given me! Lucy

Making Progress

I'm getting close to being ready...phew!! And I continue to get more good-bye wishes. I had lunch today with Larry and Diane from work. I met them near the office and it sure was nice to see them before I hit the road. They are two of my dynamite employees who have now gone on to work for other teams.

Diane is newly remarried...and I told her I enjoy hearing about the "puppy love." She recently got reaquanted with an old highschool boyfriend and they are crazy-happy with each other. How cool is that?

Larry is going through a tough time of his own, very similar to what Kenny and I experienced...except the circumstances for him and his wife are a hundred times more gut-wrenching. Yet, he keeps on keepin' on! The world could never guess what this courageous man carries on his shoulders. He greeted me this afternoon with, "Hi Boss." That's what he's always called me...and I'm guessing he always will.

Speaking of courageous, Conda stopped by and gave me a bag full of things. One is a kid's book, just like the one her best friend Connie gave her several years ago. It's called: COURAGE, by Bernard Waber and it's very cute!! It's going on the top of "my take with me pile." Here's a line from the inside cover--

There are many kinds of courage.

Awesome kinds.

And everyday kinds.

Still, courage

is courage--

whatever kind.

Decisions

Decisions are only the beginning of something.
When someone makes a decision he is, in fact,
plunging into a powerful current
that carries him to a place
he had never even dreamed of
when he made that initial decision.

The Alchemist

I Hate Saying Goodbye

"So, what's this? You two becoming inseparable?" Allen smiled as Conda and I rolled out my back door together. "Pretty much!" I replied.

So isn't life a bit odd? All those months that I was here moping around and Conda was right next door. They moved here in November...literally a stone's throw from my house. Our driveways are even connected! Who knows why it took us so long to reach out to each other?

I suppose it's because I was such a recluse for so long...just wasn't up to chatting with the neighbors. It's hard to get to know people under those circumstances. But...we know each other now, and I'm thankful...so greatful...that I've come to know this kind, insightful woman and her dear husband.

Conda and Allen went to seminary school together...and so...that makes for some interesting conversations. Allen does financial planning for church ministers and also does some missions work. He helped with the rescue operation at the World Trade Center. The other day we shared our experiences about 9-11. Turns out while he was working it in New York, I was doing my part in Washington, DC. What a connection! We were at both ends of the situation; saw it unfold from different perspectives.

Along with Jane who will actually be staying in my home while I'm gone, Conda and Allen will watch out for things too. So will my other neighbors Jen, John, and Jack. I am looking forward to hearing how these new friendships unfold while I'm in Washington. I have no doubt that Jane and Conda will become fast friends...and Jennifer too!!

LIFE IS GOOD!!

When is Jazz Getting Here?

Slink, Cissy and Tink are anxiously awaiting Jazz-Ma-Tazz's arrival. They are Libby's cats. Jazzy B is thrilled he will FINALLY get to meet his kitty-cat cousins!

Soon girls and boys...Jazz and I will be home soon!

Getting Down to the Wire

Mellow Mushroom was tonight's dinner spot! I joined Rhonda, Rich and their son Kenny. Our friend Kathy came along too. It's the local pizza place and it's got some yummy Italian pie's.

I took my camera with me because I realized this week that I didn't have a single photo of Rhonda and I together.

We should have been taking photos all along of our antics here. We have definitely had a few adventures and I hope to keep them captured in my mind forever.

Rhonda and I have been through some ups and downs this year...but we've ALWAYS been there for each other...and we always will!! She plans to visit me in DC and I'll get to show her around my stompin' grounds, just like she did for me here.

I can't wait! I have so much to look forward to in the coming months!!

I even told Rhonda I would share my Dad with her! She lost her father when she was young. And I already know that my Pop would instantly love her as a daughter!! So...that's a promise I plan to keep.

Get ready Pop to welcome another girl into your family!!! Rhonda is just like your other daughters...she's a real "girly-girl" yet she's strong and independent.

This week she put down 20 bails of pine straw mulch in her yard...and about a month ago...she laid, I don't know how many pallets of sod out back. She can do it all!! Rhonda is one amazing woman!! She's another keeper!!

I'm getting down to the wire now. There are only few more days until I'm finally home!

My Newest Favorite Photo

This photo says it all. Dan has a girlfriend...and isn't she adorable??!! In fact...aren't they adorable!!

Even though I haven't met her yet, I know she is special just by the way Dan talks about her.

Her name is Ara. It's an appropriate name, because she has a special "aura" about her!















I am so happy for Dan and it makes me happy too. There is nothing better than having someone to adore...who adores you back!!

Still Feeling Crummy

This virus...cold...whatever is whipping my behind. Now I've got a nasty cough, the congestion, the whole nine yards. And I sound like a truck driver!! That may be attractive to some, but I don't even recognize my own voice. I keep thinking there's a stranger in the house. Boo!! It's scary!!

I just want to curl up and sleep which is what I probably need to do...but there's no time for that, so I'll keep on moving.

My house looks like a refugee camp. Bags, boxes, piles of things everywhere. And yes, you've guessed it, I am not methodical in my approach. I work a little here...then a little there, then upstairs, then down. Typical artiste!! And the frenzy is beginning to set in. No more dabbling...got to git er done!!!!

I do have a prescription which the Doctor told me to hold onto in case I need it...well...I need it NOW! Will get that filled and get started taking it today. With luck and positive affirmation...I will wake up Friday feeling fit as a fiddle!!

I Miss My Baby!

I've recently seen Kyle and I got to spend some time a few weeks ago with Danny in Seattle...but it's sure been a long time since I've seen Randy and I miss him!

I talked with him on the phone Friday. He is doing well, everything is OK in Ft. Wayne. But I miss him just the same!

This photo was taken before we left Maryland and I don't care how big he is...he will always be my baby.

This other photo is Randy and Kenny at Bryan and Stacy's rehearsal dinner a few years ago. At first glance...you might think it's not a good one because both of them have their eyes closed.

But, just look a little closer. They have the same chin, the same mouth and the same expression. And my, my...even by accident they were practically wearing the same shirt that night!! You can double click the photo to get a better look.

I absolutely love that my Randy looks so much like his Dad!!

Hey Randy it's time to visit your Mom! I need a hug.

Not Sad Any More...

I had been feeling a little sad tonight...I'm still having mixed emotions about leaving this place. After spending some time next door with Conda and Allen, I took Jazz for another car ride and we headed down the local Parkway. It brought back a flood of emotions about Kenny, Randy and I arriving here nearly two years ago in early Fall. We were so excited about making this our new home. It was filled with promise for us. Ken loved all the lakes and the lifestyle of this place...and the warmth. It was nice for him not to walk around freezing all the time.

We are surrounded here by golf courses and Kenny was happy about that too. He was going to get back into golf...and I was going to learn along with him. We planned to join the Cannongate Golf Club...which has courses all over the area...even in Hilton Head where Gene and Priscilla vacation. We figured we would finally be able to join them one summer and we could all play golf.

These thoughts were playing in my mind as I drove through the city, reliving our first moments here. In my typical fashion I was choking back tears. When I finally returned home and got Jazz safely into the house, I headed straight for my computer. It's my therapy. It gets me through the rough spots!

What a happy surprise to find messages from my dear nieces. Their cute comments and warm wishes...INSTANTLY...
blew away my storm clouds!! Thank you so much Marisa and Lauren!! They are the twins in the photo with my other niece Sadie. She's the one with the "smoochy lips." It's the latest photo fashion you know!

I am so looking forward to seeing my family again. And even though it feels weird to be leaving here alone...I know it is a new life for me...full of adventure.

For the first time in all these years, I will be able to spend time with my nieces and nephews. I was always too preoccupied with Dr. appointments, hospital visits etc. to do much of that.

And of course I can't wait to see Kyle, Jessica and my dear Chloe...and all the rest of my family and friends.

This time of my life...will be filled with nothing but joy. I just can't see the point in wasting a good breathe on anything else.

Jazz is Not Loving the Car

Yesterday I took Jazz for a little car ride. I put him in his new car carrier and went for a spin. I wanted to see how he would do. Too bad...I can't say he loved it!! In fact, he meowed the whole time and started to pant. He was just a little stressed and that's not a great sign. It's gonna be a long ten hour drive with my Jazzy Boy panting like that!

I think I will call the vet and ask if they have any advice for me and perhaps a little kitty-cat sedative for Jazz. In the mean time, we are taking another drive today...and tomorrow and tomorrow. And I'm taking some cat snacks along...and some lovely smelling cat nip. I'm hoping he will learn to look forward to the idea of a car ride!!

Ken's Mom Called

Every Sunday I get a phone call from my Mother-in-law, I can depend on it!

She called last evening and is beside herself with excitement that I am coming home. She said she keeps giving the Reverend updates about me...and told him yesterday I will soon be on my way.

"Call me when you get to Virginia," she said,"And I don't care how late it is because I won't be able to sleep until I know you got there safely."

She also asked me to join her for church one Sunday soon. That sounds like a fine plan!

This is a photo of Kenny's Mom with our Randy!

The Lord Works in Mysterious Ways...

My sister Lisa called me tonight crying. I said, "Lisa what's wrong??!!!" Instantly, I was worried, she could barely talk. She said she had been through some difficult moments this week and was still having a tough time about it. She explained, "All day today I kept thinking to myself...To whom much is given much is required...to whom much is given, much is required"

She went on to tell me that later she read my blog about Grandma's favorite Bible verses...and she was stunned to the point of tears. She had no idea the verse that kept running through her mind all day is Grandma's favorite...it had just popped into her head...and stayed there. She was even more shocked to see that I had blogged about it a few days ago on Grandma's birthday.

Wow! There you go! We both know it's no coincidence!! Indeed the Lord works in mysterious ways...

Oh and this photo is Jesus at Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, Maryland. It's in the old historic part of the complex in the famous rotunda. I used to walk there often when I needed to feel His presence.

I Miss You Too Monica!

I got an email this morning from my friend back home. Monica was surprised to see her photo in my blog a few days ago.

She and I met when Kyle was just a baby and have been friends ever since. That would be about twenty-nine years of friendship!!

Together we have shared a lot of trials and tribulations and honestly she is the strongest woman I have ever met! Not only that but she's kind beyond words!!



Monica is a dear, dear friend and I can't wait to see her again.

She sent me this photo of the two of us...which I love!!! I can't recall exactly when it was taken, but I think it was just before I left Maryland. It brings to mind another photo we had taken of us years ago when we were both pregnant...me with Dan and she with Johnathan. Boy how time flies!!



She also shared with me this cool photo of her two cats, Polo and Cleo. H-m-m-m, everytime I see two cats together I'm tempted to get Jazz a companion.

Oh no...it's that crazy cat woman syndrome creeping in again. Go away...I don't need my life to be any more complicated than it already is...stay away Crazy Cat Woman!! Good Grief!! Phew! That was a close one...

The Perfect Send Off!

My dear Rhonda went with me today to help pack up my office. She launched right in while I completed my time card and a few other things that had piled up the last several days while I was out sick. It took us several hours to go through everything and we hauled a bunch of bags and boxes out to my car. I will still need to sort through them and separate out what I will take with me to my new assignment.

On the way home, we had just enough time to stop at the liquor store and pick out a couple of bottles of wine. Les and Maria were having a wine tasting party at "the Palace." That's what I call their big beautiful home!!

A small group of work friends were invited and it was a perfect send off for me. They even had a cake with my name on it!! And Les and Maria gave me this new necklace. Don't you know it even matched my outfit. How sweet!!

Alex the "Tin Man" and Denise were there and so was my old friend Mary Sherer and her family from Indie.

Sharon was there too with her husband Armand.




Mary and I guess we've been friends since about 1998 and she just transferred here...right as I'm leaving.

Now that timing stinks! We're two ships passing in the night.

I'm sure gonna miss this bunch of work friends and several have already given me dates that they will visit me at headquarters. By the end of the evening four of us girls had even made plans for St. Croix the end of October. Now that will be a blast! I can't wait!

We ladies capped off the evening by sitting out back near the waterfall, enjoying the balmy weather. Several of us got a kick out of watching two of the more spunky gals, Maria and Sharon, smoke a couple of cigars. You can be sure there are no wimpy women in this group!! In fact we left the men inside and made them tidy up and wash the dishes!! HA! Just kidding!!! Perhaps next time...

As I'm finishing this blog, I'm coughing like crazy...it seems this "whatever it is" is still hanging on and gets a little worse when I'm overtired. So...I'm gonna turn in now. Good night all!! Sleep with the angels!!

Positive Thinking and Positive People

I found an interesting web site and have added it to my list of favorites. It's about positive affirmation, which is nothing more than the old "self-fulfilling prophesy." In my early years, I didn't believe such things. But I've seen enough in my life to know it's true. In reality...if you focus on negativity you bring it to yourself. Instead, if you focus on positive energy that's what's returned to you!

Life is filled with real drama, so why tolerate anything man-made?

Not to sound indifferent, but the number of days in a lifetime are too few to spend with one negative soul. And I've been blessed to meet person after person who is kind and caring and happy and good.

In fact, I hope to look back on a lifetime knowing I've made others happy. By making people laugh, by helping them through their rough days, by extending grace for their imperfections...and practicing the gift of forgiveness.

For an interesting article along these same lines, just click on the top link in My Favorites...Success Consciousness...it's thought provoking and true!

Be Optimistic, Don't-cha Be a Mourner...

Ah, I Love This! Just click on the arrow and start to smile!!!

Starting to Feel a Bit Better

Some friends from work went out to dinner tonight at a local restaurant. It was supposed to be a celebration for me leaving, but I just didn't feel well enough to go along. So I told them to have a glass of wine for me. Instead, I popped open a can of beef and gravy and whipped up some instant mashed potatoes to go with it. That was a poor excuse for a meal, but it was the best I could do under the circumstances. At this late hour, I can finally say that I am starting to feel a bit better. But I sure wouldn't have been very good company earlier this evening and there's no point in me risking spreading these nasty germs to others.

Earlier this evening I remembered to call my Grandmother for her birthday. In my typical fashion, I had missed it by two days. Thankfully Grandma understands...in fact I'm carrying on an old family tradition. She was always fashionably late for our birthdays. And her excuse was always that being late "makes your birthday last longer." That's a good line, so I've adopted it as my own!

Grandma and I had a really good talk this evening and in fact it was probably OK that I hadn't called on her actual birthday. She said she had received so many calls and visits that by evening she was exhausted!! My Grandmother turned ninety-four this year and as she puts it she is "happy as a clam" and is having the time of her life. She said she believes that my life will begin to go more smoothly too. Grandma of course knows how it is to be a widow and she also knows all that Ken and I had been through before that...so yes, Grandma knows too well how tough it's been. She is very pleased that I will be home soon with my family once again.

Now here's something really interesting...I looked back through my blogs and realized that I had posted Grandma's favorite bible verses on her birthday. And I'd like to be able to say that I did it on purpose...but I didn't, it was purely coincidental. Hm-m-m-m, interesting...could it be that "nothing happens quite by chance my dear!?"

The Tin Man Has a Big Heart

My alarm just went off and I'm still feeling punky. Will stay home again today and take care of myself. The doctor was right, this is going to get worse before it gets better. Frustrating!!

This glitch reminds me once again of the years maneuvering around Kenny's illness. We learned to always have a Plan B up our sleeve because this sort of thing happened to us all the time. Take the holidays for example...Ken would be in the hospital a few days before Christmas so Plan B was to hold off our celebration until he got discharged. And more than once we had to delay leaving for vacation by a few days or so. Our boys even celebrated more than a few birthdays at Hopkins. As little kids they learned to take it all in stride. It's just the way we lived; we all got really good at being flexible. Needless to say, I'm exercising my flexibility once again.

In a strange kind of way it works out fine for me. As you may guess, I'm not very good at saying goodbye. Frankly I prefer to avoid it all together!! It's just too hard for me. Perhaps in an uncanny way, getting sick was part of a divine plan to spare me from all that emotion. Who knows. But It's true, I'd much rather slip away without any fanfare.

On the other hand, I'm already receiving good-byes in anticipation of my departure. I got an e-mail yesterday from a guy at work. From now on I'm calling him "Tin Man," because he's a big ole guy with a big ole heart. And he's even from Kansas! I will really miss him. He's been a big support to me through all my grief. He sent me a note of encouragement and enclosed this poem. It made me cry. I've sure met some kind people here...and I'll miss them so much.

Even still...There's no place like home...right Mom?

I said a prayer for you today.

I hope you didn't mind.

I asked the Lord to comfort you

and put your tears behind.

I prayed for peace and mercy, too,

to help you through each day,

And for His loving guidance

as He leads you on your way.

You need not walk this path alone

so I prayed He'd hold your hand,

and offer you some guidance

in a way you'll understand.

I asked Him for little miracles

and to bless you every day.

Keep searching for the Rainbows-

and let Him light your way.

A Bit of a Virus

I went to the Doctor today...the first time in over a year...probably two. I woke with a scratchy throat, aching joints. The timing stinks. I suppose there's never a "good" time to be sick. The doctor did a strep culture, thankfully it was negative. She said it's a virus, told me to get rest and just let it run its course. She gave me a prescription but told me not to fill it...hold it just as a back up plan in case I get worse over the weekend. Smart doc. I appreciate not focusing on medication.

Frustrating! This little illness sure cuts into my timeline. I had hoped to finish packing my office this week. Perhaps miraculously I will awake tomorrow feeling better and will be able to go to work. Or not... If that's the case I'll have to drive to the office over the weekend to finish packing my belongings. I still have a lot of books and personal items to bring home. And I have to tackle the rest of my stuff here. Over the weekend I'll start making piles of things. Clothes, shoes, photos...Kenny's ashes. I'm taking only the bare essentials. I'll load the car Thursday and will hit the road early Friday morning....me, Jazz, Mr. Shrek, pink poodle...and Kenny.

The drive home is ten hours. Don't know how Jazz will do...hopefully fine. I have a cat carrier, a harness etc. for him. With luck he will settle right in and take it easy while I'm driving. But I will keep him in the carrier just the same. Can't take any chances of having a schizo cat flying around in the car. In fact I plan on calling the vet next week to see if I should sedate him...just in case.

I had never been to this doctor before, so I had to answer questions and fill out all the piles of papers...many...repeating the same things over and over. Ma'am is the insurance in your name? YES! Married, single, divorced, widowed? CHECK! Husband's name...living or deceased? CHECK! Age at death...53! Emergency point of contact...Wow! There is no one here. Pause... I hate the thought of Mom getting an emergency phone call in Pennsylvania. I suppose that won't be an issue soon.

I'll be home again.

Meet Mr. Shrek!

The Joan Dideon book is really amazing. I can see much of myself and my experience in her words. At one point she said she felt like she was "herding cattle," with the Doctors and nurses etc. Constantly drilling them with, shouldn't you check this, or shouldn't you verify that...or how about drawing such and such blood work for chance that this could be going on. I've been there myself.

The only difference is that she said at one point a doctor got annoyed with her and suggested that she "take over" the case. Luckily that was not my experience. Oh...perhaps every now and then there may have been some friction with the medical experts. But for the most part my relationship with the doctors, nurses and medical staffs over eighteen years at Hopkins grew strong and we developed a mutual respect for one another. In fact I believe we had formed a strong partnership determined to keep Ken alive for as long as we possibly could. They came to rely on my instinct and my insight into Kenny's symptoms and pursued many of my recommendations over the years. I can say with confidence we did everything we could for Kenny.

I've Earned the Right To Be a Little Crazy

The other thing that strikes me as I read Dideon's book is that she knew in her grief that the logical part and the emotional part of her brain were often out of sync. That's what I've experienced too. You can go right along and know something about how you feel or think is ridiculous, yet you feel it or think it just the same. And at times it seems a bit crazy! LOL!! But that too is a common sentiment of widows and widowers. So...I just try to laugh about it. And I've decided that I've earned the right to be a little CRAZY!!!! Besides I'm an artist too, so it's about time I shed my ultra responsible traits, my conservatism...and take on some of the typical artist personae. Yes...I've earned that too! So I may as well live up to my artist image. HA!

Along those lines, let me tell you about my Mr. Shrek! I picked him up a few months ago in Walmart. I was doing one of my midnight shopping therapy runs and there he sat on the clearance aisle, staring back at me. Not only was he cute...and was giving me a very sweet smile, but he is green, the color of my sofa and his outfit matches my decor too! So I brought him home with me. And don't ya know, Shrek is dapper sitting there on my sofa in his chocolate brown vest and matching boots. He looks particularly smashing against my cheetah print and raspberry silk pillows! My Mr. Shrek! My guy.

I was reading a little while ago...and sure enough Shrek was staring back at me. He was mesmerized...HA!! So I winked back at him. Needless to say, me and Jazz and Mr. Shrek will be taking that little road trip next week. Yep, my two buddies are going with me! Oh and my little pink poodle too!! Shelley gave me that when I left headquarters and he sits there on the end table next to Shrek. Crazy? Perhaps just a little and loving it!!!

One of Grandma's Favorites

Imagine my surprise last night when I opened Conda's email and saw Micah 6:8 as the footnote next to her name. It's one of my Grandma's favorites.

He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?
Micah 6:8

I ran to get my bible to verify it for sure. And yes just as I had remembered, there it was...jotted down on a scrap of paper...three of Grandma's favorite verses. She had given them to me years ago and I had tucked them away in my bible. Back then her vision was still clear...but now at ninety-three she is mostly blind. I remember the day she wrote the verses down for me. We were sitting in her living room in Catonsville, Maryland; it was just after Ken's first liver transplant. That would have been back in 1991 or so.

On that scrap of paper along with the verse from Micah, is Luke 12:48 and Eclesiastes 3:1.

For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required: and to whom men have committed much, of him they will ask the more. Luke 12:48

To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven. Ecclesiastes 3:1

I had saved her note all these years; these verses now have special meaning for me too and they are written down in Grandma's distinctive style. I can see why they meant so much to her, now that I understand the challenges of her life.

Hm-m-m, after my day yesterday...I am taking this as Conda's unintended reminder..to get on my knees this morning and pray.

It's Hitting Me Hard

Wow! I can't explain it but this whole new assignment thing is hitting me hard. And I'm not sure I can completely understand why, but it's about the loneliest I've felt since Kenny died. Perhaps it's because I have so many decisions to make and he is not here to talk with, to bounce ideas off...to run things by. Or perhaps it's because I have so many loose ends to tie up and normally I would have him to share the load. I'm not exactly sure what it is... Tonight I even arranged for someone to stay in my house while I'm on assignment and that's a huge comfort. She will take care of it as her own and I know I'm leaving it in good hands. But it still feels weird to just walk out on my entire life...even if only for six months.

Today work named a replacement for me and that feels weird too. I started to prep the new guy about all my team functions, my priorities etc. the team, and that's when the melancholia started. I've given my blood sweat and tears to building this team...and it feels strange to be handing it off to someone else. I know that's probably ridiculous but it's how I feel. Yet in reality I know nothing will miss a beat when I walk out that door...it never does. It's just like a hand pulled from a bucket of water, it won't be noticed. Nothing will change.

It's approaching a year since Kenny's been gone and I miss him now more than ever. I found myself tonight trying to figure out someone to call...someone to talk to. Like a wounded animal I walked in circles...walked in circles...not knowing where to turn. I even talked for a few minutes to an old highschool friend but she was on travel, had to go, got busy. She'll call me tomorrow... Right! Thanks! Yeah, it's lonely here...

The Glass Half-Full

Normally I try to focus on positive things, try to see the glass half-full rather than empty...but the bottom line is...it's tough being a widow! And it's still amazing to me that most people see my challenge as "over," when it's clearly NOT!

My friend Teresa gave me a great book, The Year of Magical Thinking. I took it with me this weekend and read it every chance I got. The author, Joan Dideon, is also a widow and she talks about what she experienced in her first year without her husband. Thankfully I am able to see myself in her story. And once again, it tells me I am normal. At the same time, I have also been reading: Being a Widow, by Lynn Caine. Yeah, I'm probably a bit ADD...so it's hard for me to limit myself to just one book at a time. In fact, I would say I practice reading "around" a book rather than just reading it like most people. At any rate, both books help me feel alive, help me feel normal. Here are a few lines from the second one that struck me.

The wounds of widowhood are not so easily seen with the eyes because the process of grief is experenced beneath the skin, within the heart, and somewhere deep in the soul. But, believe me, the pain of grief is severe.

...I was outwardly a pillar of strength, capable and stong. I went to my job each day and did what was expected of me. I returned home each evening and fell apart.

These lines touched me because many people have told me I am "doing so well." And it makes me want to scream!! Doing so well why? Because on the surface I push myself through my grief? Try to continue to get through my workday without breaking down? Because I've decided to start dating already?

Is that what they mean by doing so well? It just shows how little anyone knows about what it's really like. And frankly, there's little comfort in hearing that I'm doing well. For me it feels like a form of judgement that says little of my love for Kenny. So I don't care to hear it. For in reality I am NOT doing so well...I am just living. The best I know how...I am just living...and trying to see the glass half-full rather than empty.

My Neighbor Conda

I'm reminded time and time again how lucky I am!! I just got off the phone with my neighbor Conda and as I've said before: she is such a dear!! In fact, I can't believe I won't be seeing her much over the next coming months. And it all weighs into my very difficult decision about here...versus metropolatin Washington DC. What a tough one! These are the data points that will help me decide...

But all in all, I continue to meet the most amazing people as I take this journey...called life! I feel like I've known Conda forever. I'm guessing there is nothing we can't talk about! And well, I just plan to add her to my list of amazing, dear people. Because truly...I am lucky to know more than just a few Angels. And I know this will probably sound a little sappy, but I thank God for my amazing friends! He puts them in my path...over and over and over, and I know it!!!

Conda invited me to have dinner with her Wednesday night. Alan will be out of town, so we will keep each other company. And we are going to catch the new movie: Sex in the City. Believe it or not, I'm probably one of the few women who have never seen the T.V. show. That's because Kenny and I didn't have HBO back in Maryland, but just about every woman I know raved it. Conda has free movie passes so we are going to give it a go Wednesday night. Thankfully the theatre will be dark so my red-face won't show! HA! I'm guessing it will be just a little risque!!!

She also mentioned IMBd...the Internet Movie Data Base. She said she looked up Dan there. And sure enough, it has all his movies listed. The reviews for Incredible Hulk look really good. People are loving it. So after Sex in the City, that will be next on my list of movies to see. Perhaps this weekend Conda will join me for that one too!!

One More Day...

I only have one more day of my little "mini-vacation." and now that I'm back home my stomach is beginning to churn from all the things I need to do before I start the new assignment. My brain keeps spinning from...don't forget this...and you'll need to do that...and hey, what about this?? Today I'll start making lists, because without them I doubt I'll remember everything.

The concert this weekend was really neat. Robert Plant (from Led Zeppelin) and Alison Krauss seem like an odd couple at first, but boy can they sing!! What a combination of voices! It was a great show in a smallish civic center in downtown Asheville. Our seats were close to the stage, we were in the second section back.

Asheville...what a sweet little town. It's filled with cute restaurants, art galleries and boutiques. And it's also a good mix of older people and young folk. I would say anyone who enjoys the arts and music would be drawn to this place. Needless to say I felt perfectly comfortable in Asheville. H-m-m-m, I may consider it rather than Savannah for a retirement spot.
It would be a bit closer to my family and the only thing missing for me would be the ocean! But the mountains would be a good trade off! Perhaps I'll have a little condo in Myrtle Beach too. That would be a great combination. Myrtle in the winter, Asheville in the summer. Wow...now that's an idea!!

After the show we walked up a few blocks towards my car and headed to a little coffee shop. We sat there on the street sipping a hot cup of joe watchin' the concert crowd clear. Then we had no trouble driving out of town. It's kinda funny in a way...I wonder how many people drove roundtrip, 600 miles to see the concert? But the drive was a good excuse to do some sightseeing along the way. I would certainly do it again...in fact I may start searching now for the next great concert in some distant little town.

A Lesson from the Local

On the way back from Asheville I drove a few miles off the main highway on some little backroads to see this cute little old covered bridge. While there I met a good ole boy named Frank. He's the man who owns most of the acreage to the left of the bridge. He was telling me a funny story about how he has had to "police" the area over the years.

"People are always down here making sin," Frank said. "Once I walked down to the bridge and there was a guy standing in the creek holding a can of white paint and a big paintbrush." Frank has a southern drawl and a slow way of speaking when he tells a story. It just grabs your attention as he accentuates every word.

Frank said, "I asked him what he was doin' and he said he was just fixin' to paint his name on that big rock over there on the creek bed." "Well when yur dun with that, can I use your paintbrush," Frank continued. "I'd like to paint my name too!" He said, the guy answered, Sure! Then Frank told him, "Yeah, I'm gonna paint my name on your truck!" The guy replied, WHAT???!!! Frank went on matter-of-factly, "Yeah, that's my rock ain't it? And you're gonna paint your name there on my rock, so I'm just gonna paint my name on the side of your truck. That sounds about right don't it?" Frank grinned as he finished the story, "That guy got the message right quick!"

And nope come to think of it, I don't recall seeing anyone's name painted on that creek bed. Apparently Frank's calm way of making his point works! I guess I'll just have to remember that one...

Happy Birthday Mom!

SHE dwelt among the untrodden ways
Beside the springs of Dove,
A Maid whom there were none to praise
And very few to love:

A violet by a mossy stone
Half hidden from the eye!
--Fair as a star, when only one
Is shining in the sky.

She lived unknown, and few could know
When Lucy ceased to be...

These lines are from my Mom's favorite poem by William Wordsworth. As a little girl, Mom lived in the mountains of Pennsylvania. You may have guessed, I was named after her...and she taught me to love the trees, the wildflowers and the babbling brook. Even though I was raised in the "burbs" I learned to love nature because of her. I'm guessing Mom's love for the plants, the trees and everything wild has much to do with her Native American roots.

Over the years, whenever we visited a garden or nature center, Mom would tell me about the jack-in-the pulpits, the May Apples etc. and how she grew up surrounded by their beauty. She would point out the different trees and I learned how to recognize them too, all the different species. The white oaks, the dogwoods, the red buds...the birch and beech and maples.

Eventually when I had a wooded lot of my own back in Maryland, I was able to name most of the trees and wildfowers, all from Mom's descriptions. Once, I even found a wild Ladies Slipper growing along the pond and knew right away what it was because Mom used to talk about finding them in the mountains as a kid. I grew to love the beautiful but simple things in life, the mossy stone, the humingbird building it's nest. These are but just a few of the good things I learned from my Mom. Happy Birthday Mommy. I wish I could be there to help you celebrate!

Happy Father's Day

Happy Father's Day Pop! I know you read my blog first thing every morning, so I wanted to be the first to wish you a Happy Father's Day. You are such a great Dad! And I wish I could be there to help you celebrate. I promise to make it up to you and Mom in a few weeks. We will celebrate both Father's Day and Mom's birthday together.

I'm guessing that Kyle, Danny and Randy are feeling a bit funky today. It's their first Father's Day without their Dad. It feels weird for me too and I'm trying to stay positive even though it's difficult. Instead of feeling blue, I am focusing on what a great Dad Kenny was and how lucky my boys are that he was their father.

Our boys were always a priority for Ken even though he was very ill. I have great memories of the times he spent with them and certain images stand out for me. Like the times he would referee their socker games, running those sidelines while blowing that whistle! I remember thinking how amazing Kenny was to be running up and down that field even though he was exhausted and didn't feel well. But he did it just the same...for them. And the odd part for me is that there were other fathers who didn't even show up for the games, let alone volunteer to referee for their sons.

I also remember Kenny getting up at the crack of dawn to take the boys to their early morning hockey games. Sometimes they drove as far as an hour or so away. Still he would stand out in that freezing cold rink and run the time clock for them. In between plays he kept shoving his hands in his pockets to keep them warm! Ken was so thin that he didn't tolerate the cold well...but he did it just the same...for our guys.

And how about all those fishing trips? I'm so glad he was able to take our boys on a special fishing vacation in Canada. He took them individually...one each year. So they will each have their own special memories of a week fishing with their Dad just the two of them in Kenny's boat on that beautiful lake in Canada.

No doubt my boys' fathering skills have been shaped by their Dad. I will enjoy watching all of them with their own children some day and I'll be able to reflect back and remember Kenny. In fact, Kyle is already getting practice as a Dad. His fiance Jessica has a dear little daughter Chloe. She came into our lives when she was just two.

Chloe is now a busy little five year old and I've had the joy of watching Kyle interact with her as a father. He is amazingly patient with our dear Chloe. He is such a good Dad and Chloe is crazy about him.

She calls him her "big cuddly teddy bear." Just look at these photos of Kyle and Chloe together.

My favorite is the "Chloe booger nose" photo.Yep, Kyle sure is a good Dad! And I'm sure Danny and Randy will be too.

Kyle and Chloe Baking Cookies Just look at these photos...they tell it all!

Even though it's a bit of a melancholy day today...it's a good one just the same. I'm lucky and proud that I chose such an amazing man to be the father of my three sons. I'm also very lucky to be able to see a little bit of Kenny in each of them. Yes I'm very lucky and very proud! Happy Father's Day to all!

The Smokey Mountains

Today a friend and I drove to Fletcher, North Carolina. The mountains here are beautiful! They are much different from Seattle, but beautiful just the same. I can see why so many people choose to retire in this area near the Smokey Mountains.

Tomorrow evening is the T Bone Burnett, Robert Plant, and Alison Krauss concert in nearby Asheville. We plan to check out the downtown area before the concert. Apparently it's a real artsy fartsy kind of town...right up my alley. This evening we ate dinner in a cute little cafe. When I saw the waitresses's tee shirts, I just had to buy one for myself. It reads: "It's always a Sunny Day at the Blue Sky Cafe." Perfect!

Moving Right Along

This is the last day of my week. I've taken tomorrow off and Monday too. The timing isn't the best, but I had planned several months ago to see Robert Plant and Alison Krauss in concert and I'm driving to Asheville. The last concert I attended was back in Maryland...5 years ago...Bonnie Raitt and Lyle Lovett. Kenny had surprised me with tickets for my birthday. That one was great! I've heard this one will be too!

Work today will be rushed as usual. I have way more things to accomplish than hours to do it in and I'll be picking up a friend at the airport later after work. So...I'll be pacing myself all day to leave at a specific time. Rush, rush, rush. I'm leaving now to get to the office!

Have a good one!

Pay It Forward

I had a great conversation this afternoon with my secretary. I was fortunate this week to be able to select her for an analyst position. She came out of the panel interviews as the #1 recommendation. So I trusted the panelists' advice! It gave me great pleasure yesterday to tell her that she is moving on. She was ecstatic and thanked me profusely.

At the end of the day today we had a long conversation about our experiences and yes, she's one smart cookie! Her life has shaped her well beyond her years! She's had a few tough knocks along the way, but has refused to let it get to her. She presses forward and has "determination and persistence" down!

No doubt I will look back some day on all that she is bound to accomplish. I expect that eventually she will be one of my peers...or better! The cream always rises to the top and it will be fun watching this one soar!!!

Being a front-line supervisor is mostly challenging...but this is one of the rewards of the job. And the best part is that I know this bright, positive, talented and charming young woman will also pay it forward...

Dinner with Rhonda

Just got back home from dinner with Rhonda. Wow, she is such a good friend! Rhonda has gotten me through the worst year of my life. What would I have done without her?

Once when I was on my way home from work...tornadoes were spawning all around and I was racing to get home to safety. I have to admit, I was feeling kinda low...because I was missing that phone call from Kenny saying, "Luce, where are you? The weather is really bad, you need to get home!" Right in the middle of that thought...Rhonda called me..."She said Lucy, where are you? Are you on your way home?" Yeah, you got it...I burst into tears. I said, "Wow! Rhonda, thank you for calling me. It's nice to have someone checking up on me. I'm missing Kenny."

Well that's how it's been with Rhonda. She has been there for me like clockwork. I can't wait to introduce her to my family and my friends. They will love her...just as much as I do!!!!!

A Great Clip To Start Your Day

Here's a great clip to start your day:"The Secret To You." Make it a great one!

Catfood Disaster!

Wow! This morning stopped me in my tracks. Everything was going pretty much as usual. As I dashed around to get ready, I stopped to pour food into Jazz's bowl. And Good Grief! The lid of the container popped off and a gallon of cat food went all over my laundry room! I quickly grabbed the broom to sweep it up...and dag, my darling cat came in and decided to plant his furry little body right in the middle of the mess! "JAZZ! It would be a whole lot easier if you would get out of the way!!," I mumbled...mostly to myself.

So now the next thing I will do before ANYTHING else...is pray about my day. I keep forgetting to start my morning in prayer...and this little escapade seems to be God's way of reminding me!

By the way when I clicked on my computer an article at MSN Career Builder caught my eye and made me chuckle:10 Best Excuses for Calling in Sick. Do you think "I had a cat food disaster!" would work? It's a great article check it out. Haven't learned how to make a link, so you'll have to cut and past this long URL: http://msn.careerbuilder.com/custom/msn/careeradvice/viewarticle.aspx?articleid=1246&SiteId=cbmsnhp41246&sc_extcmp=JS_1246_home1>1=23000&cbRecursionCnt=1&cbsid=dc733ec2832e452b8de92fcc3f32e9d3-266393019-RN-4