The National Christmas Tree

I can't believe I've lived in Metropolitan Washington all these years and it's the first time I've walked around the National Christmas Tree! Amazing! I met a friend for dinner last night at Pentagon City and he suggested we go see it. You know me...I love spontaneity, so of course I said, "Let's go!!"

Although it was a little cold to be walking out there since I was wearing only a light weight jacket, I decided to shiver my way along, and I am glad that I did!!!

The tree was spectacular! It was all lit up with white lights...and oh what a setting! We had a view of the Washington Monument to one side and the White House to the other. It was simply splendid to say the least.



Then we walked a few more blocks to Old Ebbitt's Grill for a drink and finally we headed to the warmth of our homes. It was a a fun and memorable evening!! And it's one I'll remember for days to come...

My Goodness!

Time is moving at such a fast pace! I suppose it's because of the holidays. But, I just need to slow it down a bit...to give myself some time to breath.

When I realized this week that neither of my two youngest boys will get home for Christmas, I decided to join Gene and Priscilla in Puerto Rico for the Holidays. First, I will spend Christmas Day with Kyle, Jess, Chloe and the rest of my family and the next morning I will board a plane to seek the warmth and treasure of that beautiful Island!! I haven't had a vacation in about three years, so I am dancing on a cloud...

Kenny, our boys and I, went with Gene and Priscilla to Puerto Rico many years ago. We joined them at Christmastime and between our two families, hauled six little be-bopping, back-pack toting boys onto that plane!! It was quite a trip and over the years we have laughed and laughed at the antics of it all.

This year, when I heard they were going again between Christmas and New Years, I thought, "Oh, how different it will be spending the Holiday without them!" Ringing in the New Year together has been our tradition for a long, long time. But as it turns out...with my typical brush of serendipity, I get to go along!!

Our families started spending New Year's together when the boys were just little tykes. We would devote the entire evening to keeping all our boys in line and eating, drinking, and playing Trivial Pursuit or Pictionary, while laughing at our two very funny husbands!! I can just hear the sound of Gene chuckling at Kenny...and Kenny howling back. The big joke, which became quite old frankly, was the guys pretending to shave their faces with the game buzzer. Oh the silliness of it all!!!

After a fun evening we would usher in the New Year together watching that ball drop in New York City. We happily raised a glass of champagne to the memory of a special year passing and a new one just beginning. Ken and I would finally bundle up our sleeping boys and carry them through the cold to the car. Then we would drive a few houses up to get them home. Oh my, those were the days!!!

This year, all of Gene and Priscilla's boys and their girlfriends, wife etc. are going along. Their youngest son Daniel will just have to be "my date" because neither of us will have a significant other this year. Thankfully Dan is a good sport! I think I will even try to convince him to dance with me to Old Lang Syne! My guess? It will be a sappy, sentimental moment.

And I'm looking forward to hugging Priscilla's Mom again and her sister Gretchen. I haven't seen them since Kenny died, so I'm sure those hugs will be bittersweet.

Tomorrow I'm going to start packing. I have something special to look forward to!

Is it Really Thursday?

Where did this week go? It's a blur! I'm getting ready to run out into the rain. It's supposed to mix with snow after midnight tonight...and then be colder again tomorrow. Oh my!! Better run...

Baby It's Cooooold Outside...

I really can't stay...baby it's cold outside. I've got to go away...baby it's cold outside. This evening has been....so...very...nice....la, la, la, la-la, la, la-la-la...

Wow! It's one of my favorite songs and I'm singing it this morning. I know it's cold out there and I just want to stay bundled here inside. Wish I had a big old fireplace to warm up to!!! But...I've got to brave it...I've got to get out there...and go make myself a living...

Baby it's cold...baby I'll freeeeeze out there...I really must go...la,la, la, la, la....

So really, I better scurry...la, la, la, la...

Here's a cute rendition...this one's for Mom...it's Tom Jones!! I know I'm dating myself...but the guy does have somethin'. It's not really his looks...he just has charisma...the chemistry. And well...we all know that chemistry is what it's all about!! Ha!!

OK, here I go...out into the cold! It's time to get my day started!!!

Baby it's Cooooooold o-u-u-t...
s-i-i-i-de!!!

Good Morning Hot Rod!!

I have a new nick name--Hot Rod!! My friend Brad dubbed me that. I guess it's because he reads my blog and sees that I'm always going a hundred miles an hour. Or so it seems. But...I did actually catch a nap today at Carla's. I had been out pretty late last night listening to two different bands in downtown Annapolis. I didn't get in until 2AM this morning because we closed down both pubs. Now I haven't done that in a VERY long time!!! But it sure was fun! Pretty much right up my alley!!!

So...by this afternoon, I was plum tuckered out. I curled up on one of Carla's big ole sofas...in front of a roaring fire. And I had one dog, Missy's pug, sleeping at my feet and the other one, Meredith's Yorkie, curled up in my arms. Sweet!!! It was great to get a nice cozy nap on a cold winter's day.

Papa Charles even cooked us dinner. We had a feast of oven roasted pork chops, baked sweet potatos, collard greens and biscuits. Mmmmmm-mmmmmm!! Yummy yum!!

It's a Jazzedy Doo Dah Day!!!!!!

And I'm off to shape metal!!!!

Looking Forward to My Home Away From Home!!!

After the metal class tomorrow I'm headed to Carla's...it's my new home away from home. I love it there!!! I get to see Rema and Charles and there is always something going on at their house. Dogs, raccoons on the deck, people visiting...lots of stuff happening!!!

Besides all that...Carla's got the dreamiest beds in town. I know it will sound crazy but she is one of those rare ones who still irons her sheets!! Trust me she would never get that kind of hospitality at my house...but nonetheless...her beds ARE comfy man!!! Oh I can't wait!!

And not only that but the food...well the food at their house is to die for!!! Here she is last weekend fixing us all breakfast!!! Yum!!!

Oh...and when her sister Mim is visiting...she pampers me too...by fixing me some knock-out martinis. Wow!

So...there you have it. I'll be over there tomorrow afternoon...and then I'm going with another old high school bud to hear some live music on West Street in Annapolis. Fun, fun, fun!!! So now I better go tuck myself in my bed...I've got an early and busy, busy day tomorrow. And I still have Sunday left...just imagine!!! Phew!!!

TGIF!!!!

Today should not have been so busy...it IS FRIDAY after all! But, I didn't leave the office until 5:30 tonight. For a Friday in a Government Building, I was just about the last one to turn out the lights!!! And that was after a long, hectic day! Now I'm sitting here waiting for a friend to arrive and we are going to see that new movie Australia. I'm so excited...it's supposed to have beautiful cinematography. I guess that's what it's still called????!!!! At any rate, it's a "feel good" movie...the only kind I care to see these days. Should be a fun night.
Tomorrow I'm headed to metal class in the AM and then I'm off tomorrow night to hear a local band...they are playing live in Annapolis. Sunday I'm finally getting to see the newly remodeled American History museum. I'm going with a friend from work. That museum has always been my favorite...so I can't wait!!!

As I'm sitting here typing, my Jazzy boy is sitting on my lap and he has both of his paws wrapped around my right hand. And he just keeps pawing at me. What a funny boy!! I'm pretty sure he is a little jealous of my laptop. I spend so much time on my computer and whenever I do...he climbs up here and tries desperately to get my attention. I know...I know...he IS a guy after all!!! Ha!!! Funny Martine...now that's REALLY funny!!!

The Shredder Ate My Notes...

Oh my goodness!! What a day!! I was talking with one of my mentors and confessed that I'm having a little trouble staying organized.

I support multiple executive councils, take multiple notes, and keep the documentation etc. And it's always in various stages of progress. I've got people calling me all day long requesting to come before the councils, I'm constantly juggling schedules and gathering information...giving people advice and guidance. And...so...it can be a bit overwhelming keeping it all straight.

I told this woman that I was having trouble because I have reams and reams of notes from this team and that team, including sticky notes to myself and papers all over my desk!! She suggested that once the meetings are documented, I should just throw caution to the wind and shred my handwritten meeting notes. Just call it a day and get on with the next round!!!

So I marched right back to my office...and with new encouragement, I said to myself..."She's right, I don't need all this stuff hanging around...I need to lighten the load...get things in order here!"

So next, I scooped up all that paper into my arms...and headed to the shredder. Wow! What a feeling to send page after page through that groaning, grinding machine...get 'er done!!! Lickety split!

And when I was finished turning it all into shreds, I matter-of-factly brushed my hands of it all! And I sauntered back to my desk feeling very pleased with myself. Then I set back to work finishing up the documentation for the last meeting held this week.

Suddenly...Oh...My...Gosh!!! I froze in a panic...and my jaw dropped to the floor!!! Oh My Gosh! Yes, you guessed it!!!! I had shredded this week's notes!!! Oh...My...Gosh!

For a minute I sat there and tried to conjure up the events from Monday's meeting...but by now it was mixed with all the other week's worth of meetings and conversations...and phone calls. Blank...my mind was completely blank.

I ran back to the shredder and stuck my face into the bin!!! No-o-o-o-o! What have I done? There's no way could I piece back together those little bitty stips of paper and make any sense of it all!! It just ain't gonna happen!

So...now what to do? I could make up a story...I could pretend I just didn't have all the info...or I could fess up to my shortcomings. What a decision...but I've pretty much always been a "What you see is what you get kind of gal."

So...I finished up the notes the best I could, based on what I was able to pull from my old foggy memory and I distributed what I had pieced together with an explanation. "Please excuse me if I've missed anything from the meeting, I had a little run-in with the shredder!!! It ATE MY NOTES!"

And so you see...there's a lesson here. I will never again try to be someone I'm NOT!! It's just not me...to be so methodical...which is why I had hung onto all that paper all along. By now, after all these years, I know myself w-a-y-y too well and I've learned how to compensate for who I am!!! I was hanging onto that paper for a reason... And I'm just not supposed to have a tidy desk!!!

Well...when those VPs got my message, they either found the humor in it and laughed, or they thought I'm a real blond bimbo...or they simply realized...I'm just human after all!

Oh My Man I Love Him Sooooo...

It's my Jazzy Boy! I love my sweet cat!!! As usual, while I was getting out of the shower this morning...he was sitting there peeking around the door frame. Just curiously watching every step I made!! It's our morning ritual.

Then as I proceeded to fix my hair and makeup...he jumped up onto the bathroom counter...and perched himself between me and my work.


Jazz is such an obstacle every morning as I get ready. He is so curious. He analyzes everything I do. I think he wants to be sure I don't do it wrong. Just like a typical man!!! Ha!!

And I'm sure, the whole time he must be thinking..."Why does she have to go to work?" And, honestly, I'm wondering that too!!! But, I've got many, many years to go. Those were the cards I was dealt!!

Oh goodness, speaking of work...I've got to get rolling...

On Prancer...

OK, I've got the reindeer thing going. It's the best I can do about getting the holiday spirit. So, OK, here I go...prancing out the door!!!! HA!!! Onward and upward!!!

Now Dasher...

Like one of Santa's reindeer...I'm getting ready to dash off to work. Gonna run to catch the metro in just a minute. It was a good weekend.

Went with Carla and the gang to a hockey game in Richmond.
Her son Russell was playing. That pretty much sums up how much I love Carla...everyone knows I'm not into hockey!!!

But it was a fun road trip...we drove down and back in one evening. Carla, her Papa, sister Mimi, daughter Missy and friend Meridith, and I all piled into their big old Suburban.

The girls even brought pillows and blankets so some of us caught a little nap in the car.

Once we got there we had cocktails by the fire at the local hotel until the rink opened. That warmed us up for the game. It was a nice rink and the game was exciting. Perhaps a little too exciting...yes there were a few fights here and there.

After the game we got to see Russell for a little while before the team got on the bus. Then after a round of hugs for the boy...we left for home. We got back to Carla's about 1AM so I stayed there rather than drive home so late.

The next morning was breakfast...m-m-m-m, at Carla's it's always a treat!!! Ham and eggs! Then I packed up the car (AGAIN!) and came home to Jazzy B. I spent the day just hanging out.

Can't quite get into the holiday spirit for some reason... I guess that's understandable...I'm just not feeling it. And I don't even like hearing Christmas music this year. I wish it would all just go away. Stay positive, stay positive, stay positive. Yeah right!!! Bah humbug!!!

Hey there!

Well I have plenty to blog about...just don't feel much like blogging. Blah, blah, blah! Does that work?

The Turkey Day is Over...

Yesterday was a fun day with my family!! We gathered at the Aktug's club house...after hauling ourselves and our food...over the river and through the woods!!


It was a flurry of activity in that big old industrial kitchen...
Everyone set out to work and there was plenty of room for us all to scurry around.

My family is the coolest! Even the guys get in on the cooking...no football slugs in our family. Love that!!!


We shoved the food into the oven...put down tablecloths and center pieces of flowers on all the tables. Oh, and we popped open a few bottles of wine and beer...to add to the fun and help motivate us to keep moving!!!


In short order we had the place turned into a festive Thanksgiving setting.




Finally with everything in the oven...we even had time to sit around and enjoy some appetizers while we waited for our dinner to be ready.



And eventually with a second round of frenzied activity...
the Turkey with all its trimmings was ready!


We all gathered round for a moment as Pop blessed our meal by giving thanks. As always he asked the good Lord to watch over those who could not with us...

It's a Triple Play!!!

What a great day for a birthday!!! Three dear ladies are celebrating today, Carla, Melissa and our Danny's dear Ara!! How can that be...three special birthdays??? Yes, it's a special day indeed!!!

Last night a group of us met at Finn's in Crofton to celebrate with Carla. Normally I try not to go out during the week...especially having to drive so far away...but well, it was "The Queen's" birthday, so of course I couldn't miss it!! And...it was so much fun. A bunch of my old high school buds were there. There's nothing more fun than that!

Happy Birthday my three special girls!! Carla, Melissa and Ara!! I hope it's a birthday you will always remember!! Love...hugs and kisses to you all!!!!!

I'm Already Bored...

And it's only 9AM! I'm catching up on my TV watching...seeing what's going on in the World. Now I know what the girls have been talking about on FACEBOOK. It's Twighlight...the movie! And although it sounds a little strange to be in love with a vampire...after seeing the guy...well...I can understand why they are nuts about him! Oh to be young again!!

I'm sitting here in my PJs and Jazz is biting my toes. Thankfully my handy-dandy water bottle is within reach! So I do a quick and ready aim and a squirt of water to convince him to stop biting me!! Ouch! There he goes again! That little rascal!

Oh, yeah...can you tell I'm bored to tears? Oh my, it's gonna be a very, very l-o-n-n-n-n-g-g-g day in my little apartment!!! Just me, my Jazzy Boy and a handful of channels on the TV set. Good grief!!

My Goodness...My Cold!!!!

Well I'm up at this early hour, but I'm sure not moving very fast. And I won't be going to my metal apprenticeship this morning. I spoke with my Mom last night and my Jessica...and they both talked some sense into my head. I'm still hacking...and I'm sounding like a truck driver once again. Generally, I'm just feeling very poorly. I suppose I haven't been taking very good care of myself.

Under the circumstances,the schedule I had lined up for today just didn't make a lot of sense. Standing out in the wind and cold this morning would not be very good for my condition. Br-r-r-g-g-g-h-h-h-h!!!

And, I won't be going to Teri's shower today either. Jessica's logic prevailed! She reminded me that, my goodness...Teri is just weeks away from having a baby!!! I don't need to be taking this germ anywhere near her, especially since it's been hanging on to me now for three weeks. Imagine this creepy germ latching onto Teri!! Not good. As it is, I'm afraid I've already passed it on to Kyle. That's not good either...

So, here I am in my PJ's and I'm gonna stay this way for a while. I'm going to wait a few hours to call Hugh and tell him I won't be finishing my horse today. Funny, but this was one tough decision...that's how much I look forward to my metal apprenticeship...now I'll have to wait another week for my creative fix! Bummer!!!Big bummer!!!

Now the party...what about the party I was invited to attend tonight? Hm-m-m-m-m-m, party, music, people? It's a celebration for an old high school friend who just got back from Iraq. Well I'm gonna think on that one a while. Perhaps by some miracle...the much needed rest I receive today will allow me to spring back to life by evening. We will see... That will be an even tougher one to cancel out on!!!

What a Day...

I spent the day catching up after being away since Monday at an offsite. I finally headed for home a little after five and when I walked outside it was pitch dark. I dread this time of year because I leave for work in the dark and typically I head home in the dark too!

As I started across the street to the metro...I caught sight of the Capitol. It was all lit up and well...what an awesome sight against the dark night sky. I have promised myself to never take these Washington buildings and monuments for granted ever again. So...I took a few extra minutes to walk across the street and snap a picture. I just happened to have my camera with me!!

On my way home I stopped at Pentagon City to do a little shopping. I have a baby shower this weekend for Kenny's niece Teri...so I needed to pick up a gift. She is pregnant with her second child and knows it is a girl. Teri was the flower girl in Kenny and my wedding so she holds a special place in my heart. And her Uncle Kenny simply adored her. Oh my, where did our little girl go? And how did life fly by so quickly?

I'm so excited for our dear Teri. All she ever wanted since she was just a little girl is to grow up and have children of her own. And for a while there, we were all afraid that dream would just not come true for her.

Well just look at her now. Finally...after waiting so long...she is blessed with the family she has always wanted. A boy AND a girl! How special!!! Her baby girl is going to be named Mary Grace. What an appropriate name. Mary...is Teri's first name and I love the name Grace...especially with all that it signifies. This little girl is destined to be a little princess. Here is Teri with her little guy, Bryce. Now tell me, could there be a more beautiful Mom and Son?

A Natural High...

Is knowing that

somebody misses you!!

Gooooood Moooooorning!!

It sure is good to be back in my little apartment. Jazzy Boy missed me so much...he just kept meowing and meowing and meowing. Last night he slept in the crook of my arm with his paws on my chest. Every now and then throughout the night he would pat my face with one of his paws. Oh My Gosh!! My cat LOOOOOVVVVVEEEESSSS me! Even though it kept waking me up...it was very sweet. What a cutie!!!

Now as usual, I'm dashing out the door. I'll button my coat up tight against the chill! Br-r-r-r-r-r-g-g-g-h-h-h-h!! Have a good one!!!

Well Hello!!

I'm back from my work conference in Towson. It was sure great to see so many work colleagues and it was a great week. We accomplished a lot...and well...I sure am going to be busy the next several weeks as we put arms and legs on the actions we developed. Interesting work...interesting indeed!!!

Another Work Meeting

I'm here in Towson and am getting ready to go downstairs to another work meeting. I arrived last night. A couple of us rode with a friend and with the crazy weather it took us two hours for a trip that would normally take only one. It was raining the entire time...and actually for the last 10 miles or so it was snowing...a real wintery mix!! My, my...we checked in, threw our luggage in the room and went for a glass of wine and a bite to eat!!! What a long day yesterday!!

This morning should be fun. There are managers here from all over the organization...it's kind of like a big old reunion of sorts. And that's good because I'm in a bit of a funk this morning. Sometimes I just feel like the weight of the World is on my shoulders... Hopefully it will be a peaceful day.

My dears...Pat and Priscilla!!!

Today Priscilla and I rode over to Kent Island and met Pat for brunch. We ate at a little local restaurant by the Kent Narrows bridge...had your typical breakfast and laughed about starting our diets TOMORROW! Actually, that's not entirely accurate...Pat ate reasonably...but Priscilla and I both "fell off the wagon!!" Yes...Priscilla and I will start eating reasonably tomorrow. Right Prisci?

After breakfast we went to the outlets and shopped 'till we dropped. Come to think of it, I was the only one who bought anything. Hm-m-m, how can that be? Well...I got some cute stuff to wear to work this week. I got a couple new jackets...and a cute, rockin' dress!!

It was such a nice day today. There's nothing quite like old friends who love you unconditionally! Pat and Priscilla...we have all been through so much together and have history to share of raising our kids, working hard...and enduring all of life's trials. We have loved each other through thick and thin. Sometimes we go months without talking or seeing each other...but no matter. We are buds!!

A New Perspective

It hit me today that the introduction to my blog page needed an update. I decided it no longer painted an accurate picture of who I am. So I've revised it. I've even given it a slightly new look and feel to reflect the new me.

A lot has changed in the fifteen months or so since Kenny died. But today I can say...I finally have many more happy days than sad ones. And that's really saying a lot, since this past year had been filled with overwhelming, gut-wrenching, sadness and grief.

Thankfully...I have gotten through the fog...and I'm beginning to feel like my old self again. Now that's not to say that I don't miss Kenny. I do still miss him...tremendously...in ways that are hard to describe. But...I'm getting by. I've settled in to my new life and it's mostly comfortable and I'm mostly content and happy from day to day.

I've learned so much about being a widow. And although I'm so much happier, there still remains that lingering loneliness...while I'm surrounded by a multitude of people. I still dread coming home to my empty apartment. It's not out of fear at all...it's simply out of loneliness. And I still miss the companionship of my lifelong partner. In fact, something happened today...that instantly had me longing for Kenny. I wanted to dash home from work and talk it over with him. And of course I couldn't. It's moments like this that haunt me in my new life as a widow.

The long time friendship and companionship that Kenny and I had...the knowledge of each other's families...the history we shared...well it's all gone. To start that same conversation today with anyone else, would mean updating them on so much background and so much history to set the context for the discussion. Oh yes, that's how it is living without Kenny.

But, I'm definitely pressing forward. And who knows how the rest of this year will go. I'm guessing each day will continue to get better even as I still have much to sort out with my new life. Do I buy a new house? Or a condo? Or do I continue to rent? Which car should I sell...or should I get rid of them both? There are still so many things to work out...and now it's all solely up to me to decide. But at least my days are lighter, they are finally brighter and I'm learning to be happy once again.

Kenny Was There!

Just take a look at this family photo. Jessica says, "Mom, see that space between Randy and Danny...that's where Dad was standing!"

You know...Jessica, I'll bet you are right!!! And, just look how lucky I am. Check out my three handsome sons!!! All I can say is WOW!!! God is good!!!

What a Weekend!!

In spite of getting a chest cold and barking like a truck driver...I was still pretty busy. I did relax on Saturday; spent the entire day in the apartment and was bored to death. Sunday I tried out a new church. Turns out it's the one with that minister you've probably heard on the radio..."Not a serman, just a message!" It was a neat church. And, although I was looking for a large congregation..this one may just be a little TOO big. It was like a small city inside!!! People running this way and that...hurrying around with not a soul to stop and talk...

After church I went to see Kyle, Jess and Chloe and then had dinner at Martine's. And since I had taken Monday off, I spent the night there rather than drive home late. Her little grandson was visiting...and we sure had a blast with him. Little Tristan is 14 months old...and CUTE!! And...the best part? I think he likes me!!! Ha!! Martine and Jeff's son Trevor is home from Iraq. So it was sure good seeing him too and Tristan's Mom and Dad...Taylor and Ashley. Keep looking...I'll post some photos of Martine and Tristan, but I don't have them downloaded yet.

I left Martine's late morning and drove to PA to visit Mom and Dad. Just felt like seeing them. It had been a while. We spent a nice day together. Went to Eagles for lunch, then later for dinner we had Kentucky Fried Chicken. Dad had suggested all kinds of restaurants, but that just hit the spot! So we ate at home and simply relaxed.

Finally I drove home and got back about 8 PM. Jazzy B was sure glad to see me. My poor cat, I could be a better friend to him. Next time...I should TAKE HIM ALONG!!!

Yesterday I had a make up metal class and spent the day working on my horse. The weather was crisp and a bit chilly, but Hugh started up the wood stove, so we could duck into the shop every now and then to get warm. I really made progress on my horse. He is still not finished...but is getting there. I'll be sure glad to bring him home. Maybe Saturday...

A Non Eventful but Pleasant Evening

Martine and I both "hit the wall" tonight. We were both just too pooped to keep on going. Earlier this evening, she and I had hopped onto the metro, road it to Metro Center and from there walked about two blocks to Old Ebbitt's. It was a nice stroll through the bustling streets of Washington. And Old Ebbitts is such a beautiful restaurant; it's filled with large old paintings, lots of stained woodwork...and it has plenty of historical old world charm.

We grabbed a couple of stools in the main pub area...ordered a couple of beers and some hummus with pita bread and veggies. The food hit the spot and so did the beers. But pretty soon...we faded. I had gotten up this morning with a scratchy, sore throat, so as the evening went on...I kept getting more and more horse. In fact, I sound like a truck driver who has smoked WAY too many smokes.

Martine and I high-tailed it back to the metro and arrived back at my apartment by 8PM. She had planned to stay here tonight, but instead headed home. After all, Trevor is on his way up from N.Carolina, so now she will be there to greet him when he arrives. That's probably a good thing, because I'm about ready to turn in. I'll be getting up very early in the morning to get to my metal apprenticeship...and I'll be better off giving this nasty cold a bit of a rest.

Martine is On Her Way!!!

Oh boy, oh boy, Martine is on her way over! Not exactly sure where we will end up...either in Old Town or at the Old Ebbitt Grill near the White House. But either is sure to be fun with Martine along. She is a people magnet!!! We always manage to strike up some interesting conversations together. Neither of us are too shy...and together we are simply crazy!!! Yep, just like two high school kids again...

The weather today was fabulous....in the 70's. That's called Indian Summer here in Washington and it's always a nice refreshing break from the chill of the autumn weather. Knowing we were gonna have a nice day today, I decided to take some annual leave. I had been really tired this week...probably from the time change. So I felt like I just needed some time to myself.

I didn't do a whole lot of much...just ran errands. I also hopped on the metro this morning and retrieved my laptop from the office. Heaven knows I couldn't survive the weekend without my computer. As I made my way through the underground mall, I stopped for a manicure and pedicure and picked up my dry cleaning. It sure is convenient having everything right here at my fingertips. Then I headed home and just hung out here at the apartment most of the day.

I had planned to run to the hardware store to pick up a new grinder for my metal apprenticeship tomorrow, but never made it back out again. Instead I will leave a little early in the morning and run by Lowes on the way to Hugh's house. Hopefully they will have the grinder in stock that I want. It's 5 amps, 120 V...that should be plenty of power for grinding steel!!! Hugh's old grinder has been very temporamental lately and we never know for sure if it's gonna work or not.


Frequently we have to improvise by using a hand held grinder, which is not nearly as convenient as the bench model. It's also a bit more dangerous. So...I figure it's time to spring for a new one!! I'll also pick up a wire brush attachment too so that we can have the grinding wheel on one side and the wire brush on the other.

I'm nearly, NEARLY finished with my crazy horse sculpture. If you double click this picture you will be able to see it a bit larger. Just look at those sparks fly!! I'm grinding down the edges of the horse's head. Just trying to make it a bit more even where the horseshoes are joined together. Perhaps tomorrow my horse will finally be finished. Hopefully anyway! It sure has taken longer than I expected!!

Last week, near the end of my class, Barbara came out of the house and brought me a single red rose. Turns out it was the anniversary of Eva's passing and friends of theirs always send them a bunch of red roses in her memory. What a sweet gesture, I was very touched. And especially since I am sure the anniversary is very hard for them both. I sure feel blessed to have made this connection with Hugh and Barbara. It is simply so much more than just learning metal work. Life is sure interesting that way.

Help!! Save Me From My Social Life...

Goodness I'm tired...and there is so much left to do! With all the people I know traveling in and out of here from all over the country there is always something to do and someone to do it with!!! I'm EXHAUSTED!!! I need to be saved from my social life!! LOL!!! At least I'm not too often bored...well only when I sit still!!!

Getting Ready to Brave the Cold

Soon I'll be working outside...hammering steel and welding my horse sculpture! It's going slowly, because it's a new design and I keep having to think it through. Got to make sure I weld the right part in the right sequence to be able to fabricate it the way I want. Otherwise if you make a mistake in welding metal, it's very hard to tear it back apart. So, I'll sure be glad when this is done. I'm really anxious to start working on a SERIOUS sculpture. That will be next!! Soon!

After my apprenticeship this morning, I'm going to have to run by a thrift store. I need some old sweatshirts and stuff to work outside in. And I don't want to buy new stuff because it will just get holes in it from all the sparks of metal flying all around. I had to really scrape to the bottom of my closet here this morning to find something warm to wear as it's getting colder outside. I don't have a sweatshirt here and I need one. My pajama sweatshirt will have to do! LOL! But it will probably get ruined. The crazy thing is that I have a ton of them back home, but...can't get to them right now. And so goes my frustration of living in limbo. It keeps reminding me that I need to get settled!!!

Gosh, I'm looking forward to metal work today. Last weekend Hugh canceled because he was getting company...and the Saturday before we took that hour off for the jam session with his friend Bear and son Daniel. So...this should be a full three and a half hours of heating, hammering, chopping, grinding and welding steel!!! I'm hoping my sculpture will really start to take shape this morning.

At first, it will be hard getting started because the temperature is rather brisk and we work outside. But once I get into my work...I start to warm up and I become so entranced with what I'm doing that I simply forget the cold. At least I'm hoping that's how it goes this morning. Not sure how it will be when it gets into November!!! Br-r-r-gh-gh-gh!

Oh...and this time I WILL remember to take my camera!! It should be real pretty out there on the West River by now, with all the leaves turning and winter setting in! I imagine we will start seeing the Canada Geese pretty soon. Oh...I love the sound of those "honkers" circling in for a landing. Just thinking of that sound reminds me of our home back on the lake, and sittin' on our screened porch on a Saturday morning drinking coffee. Oh, those were the days!!

Candy, candy, candy

Oh No! Can't sleep again, and now I'm eating CANDY!! That's not good...not good at all! But it sure is fun. If I keep having this much fun, by next month, I should be as big as a house!!! Oh my!!!!

Happy Halloween!

My Halloween mask today is a Happy Face!! Don't be fooled!!

Moving Slowly Again...

Boy, I'm having a hard time getting myself moving. Don't know if it's the weather, or the darkness in the morning...not sure. And I suppose this crazy grieving comes in waves...still. I'm just feeling kind of punk this week. Tired of living in this state...frozen in time. I think I cram as much into my days as possible, just so I don't have to face my reality. When I have a slow moment...it all comes slamming back!! Like now. What to do? Who knows. I'm sure I will figure it all out soon...
In the mean time...one foot in front of the other...one foot in front of the other!!
OK, I'm running out the door now!!! Got to get to work!!!

So Much for Having Fun!

Got home tonight, pulled a frozen stuffed pepper out of the freezer and threw it in the oven. Didn't feel much like doing anything else for dinner. Just been sitting here, reading Facebook, putzing around. Not much of anything going on.

Just got a call from my folks, my family is getting together at Noyan's parents for Thanksgiving. They have reserved the clubhouse and everyone will bring a dish. That should make things easy for everyone. Not sure what I will bring...don't have any baking or cooking utensils at my apartment. Hm-m-m, I'll have to think of something creative!!!

In the mean time, it's just me and Jazzy Boy, killin' time and drinking wine!!! Hey...how 'bout that? I can make a rhyme..any old time!!!!

Running Out the Door!!

Here I go again to face the dark and the cold of the morning. Br-r-r-g-gh-h! It's windy and cold here. High's in low 50's today. Don't like this kind of weather, but I'll make the best of it.

By the way, Dan's girlfriend Ara says this photo of me is "sizzling!" Hm-m-m-m-m, interesting...I'll take sizzling any day!!! And that's it...RED and CHEETAH print...that's what I'm wearing from now on!!! It sure makes life for me fun!!!
Have a good one!!!

It Feels Like Winter!

The temperature dropped last night to the forties! I had to get up early, early this morning and get myself another blanket. Br-r-rg-g-gh-h-h, I was shivering. It sure was cold in here! And it's still dark outside and it looks like it rained a little bit during the night. I'm sitting here, trying to coax myself to step out into the day! Well...OK...here I go...

Back From the Band

The band was Bo Deans and I'm sure I should know who they are because a lot of people were singing along. But...I've never heard of them before. They were good though and it was fun just listening to live music.

I'm now back in the apartment again. Trying to get back to work...but boy I'm having a hard time getting down to business. I'm sure I'm due for a vacation. I could sure use a week on the beach...doing nothing but relaxing. I'm tired again as usual and I'm really tired of always PUSHING myself to keep moving, and moving. I'm in perpetual motion!!! That would make anyone weary!

Oh how funny...just as I'm typing this...I'm hearing the band I just listened to on the radio. So, I suppose they are a popular band. Isn't that funny??!!!

Watching the Marine Corp Marathon!

It turns out I didn't miss them after all!! This stretch is the last three miles of the race, so it just took a while for the runners to arrive. And they are here now...thousands and thousands of them. It's a sea of faces. Amazing!

I searched for my friend David from Phoenix, but couldn't place him in the crowd of runners. But I'm sure he is here somewhere; he runs this marathon every year.
Truly it is amazing!! There are people of every kind, shape and size. They all come running by with their faces fixed in determination. Some of them are locked in a grimace and others have the most peaceful appearance as if they are lost in their thoughts far, far away.

Some even run along holding the hand of a friend...trying to keep them going, encouraging them not to quit. Others stop and rub their calves...others walk a while until they get their strength back. I even saw one guy in a banana costume and another pushing a baby in a stroller. And there is another guy who has no legs and he is doing the race on a skateboard!!! How can that be?

Even the crowd has determination. They keep on clapping, and hollering and encouraging them to run. It's a constant serenade of cowbells and screaming, cheering, and clapping. There's something entrancing about watching the variety of faces and shapes and sizes, all the expressions...running and running. And they just keep on coming. Miles and miles of them passing by.

I stood out there for hours and finally had to drag myself away for a while. I decided to go back to the apartment. I just have to get a few things done around here today...even though it's extremely hard with the constant cheering and distraction. I really hate to miss out on all the fun. But,I do want to join again in the festivities once the music and celebration begins. So I've got to put my nose to the grindstone here for a few hours before the party gets going.


And all in all, I do find myself wondering what it is that compels them to do this. I can't imagine ever running a marathon. I just can't...although there's a part of me that would love to do it. Just for the challenge, just to see if I could finish. I suppose that's why they run. That must be it!!

I Missed Most of the Runners...

Don't know how that happened but I missed most of the runners. There are now a bunch of walkers going by. But I did get to see two guys escorted by police cars. They were parapelegics, racing on those recumbant bikes. Boy, now that takes some strength and stamina!! Amazing!!

I am back in my apartment now and will get caught up on a few things. I may metro over to the finish area later. It's over by the Iwo Jima Memorial. That would be the most exciting place to be today. It's amazing the range of people who run in this race each year. Different ages, different capabilities, different handicaps. You've just got to LOVE the human spirit!!!

Marine Corp Marathon

The runners are here! The streets have been transformed. I don't know how they did it but they worked all night getting things set up...and I didn't hear a bit of the commotion. I slept right through all the tent raising and booths' construction.

And now this morning the runners are passing by. They are racing by my aprtment and there's cheering and clapping going on!! Oh my! How will I ever get anything done today?? This is way too exciting to sit inside today. That's it!!! I'm grabbing my camera...and I'm out of here!!!

What a Fun Day Today!!

I didn't have metal class today. Hugh had other plans, so I went to Annapolis and met Monica for lunch. We rendezvoused at the new shopping center and walked a few blocks to the Chinese restaurant. The place was beautiful inside; there was a nice glow of ambient lighting from all the pretty lanterns hung from the ceiling. It reminded me of a similar place where I had lunch when I was in New York City a few months ago.

After lunch, Monica and I did a little shopping. We wanted to check out the new stores and see what they had to offer. By then it was raining like crazy, so we did our best to stay dry by ducking in and out of awning after awning to avoid the downpour. But we still got fairly wet!

We managed to make our way through a few stores and I tried on some clothes here and there. Eventually, we stumbled upon an entertainment store where they sell all kinds of equipment like barbecue grills, pool tables and party paraphernalia, including wine glasses and wine gadgets of all sorts.

Guess what? They were having a wine tasting and invited us to join them. So sure enough we did. A wine correspondent was there, she works for Oprah's magazine...and the Today Show...etc. She had arrived last night all the way from Sonoma...to be the hostess of the wine tasting. They had also brought in a caterer from Timonium to whip up some amazing food to pair with the various wines.

Boy...how fun was that??!! The wine was good and so was the food. The final tasting...Chocolate Rosewater Truffles...sprinkled with sea salt...and we chased it with sips of 2004 Girbaldi Brochetto from Piedmonte Italy. Normally I don't care for sweet wine...but this was great. I suppose the salty chocolate helped!!!

By early evening Monica and I parted our ways and I started home. But...well...you know me!!! As I started out of Annapolis, I decided to call Carla. And, you guessed it, one thing led to another and I was soon on my way to her house. So much for going home!!

Right after I got to Carla's, we ran to the grocery store and picked up a few things. And yes I did get even more wet!!! By the time we got out of the store...it was pouring again. So Carla ran to get the car and brought it to the curb. You should have seen us. We giggled and laughed, while I shuffled along holding the umbrella over Carla as she waltzed back and forth between the curb and the car...loading it up with the groceries. It was quite a scene, the two of us silly girls!! Finally, we got everything in the car and zoomed back to Carla's to fix dinner. Well...actually I'm pretty sure it was Carla who did all the cooking while I mostly sat there and kept her company.

Dinner was great...as usual!! But just as we finished we lost power. So Carla lit candles in just about every room of the house! It was very pretty!! There's nothing quite like candlelight!! After a little while I left for home. For real this time!!! I knew that I would probably have fallen asleep had I sat there much longer and I would never have made it home. But, I wanted to get back to the apartment before they close the streets at 4AM to start setting up for tomorrow's Marine Corp Marathon. I will be watching it from my balcony tomorrow!! And later after the race, there will be band playing music in the park about 3PM. So I plan to walk down the street for that. I love live music, so it should be a lot of fun tomorrow!! Even though I will be "all by myself!"

I'm Back Home Again

And I'm pretty tired. Actually, I'm very tired!!! The meeting went well. The people there were really very nice and I got to know some of them pretty well in such a short amount of time.

On my way home, I stopped and had dinner with a friend on Capitol Hill. While there I also ran into an old High School friend and her daughter. Sue was also a cheerleader one year behind me...and she is...and always has been... a real sweetheart!

She and her husband live in the same town where Kenny and I used to live in Maryland. We got reconnected there about ten years ago at Church and she got to know Kenny pretty well too. They just hit it off immediately! In fact, as I recall they were in a small group together for a while. They did "Monday Morning Matters." Which means the group met and did odd jobs around the church every Monday...and they ended their day in fellowship and prayer.

What a small world running into Sue downtown this evening. I hadn't seen her a few years. She is an RN and she is now working at the Capitol for the Attending Physician. The good news is that she is only a few blocks from me so we can meet for dinner one day soon. That will be awesome. I've always loved her!!

Back in Baltimore Again!

Here I am back at Baltimore's Inner Harbor. I'm in the same hotel as before. And...I've got another amazing view of the ships on the harbor, from right here in my room. And...I'm looking out right now, on the Domino Sugar sign...all lit up in red. What an amazing view!

I got here later than planned. I was scheduled to help with this meeting today, but my assistance was pre-empted by bigger priorities back at the office. One has always got to have a Plan B!! So after a very busy and hectic day today...I hit the road after work and got here about 6PM, just in time to check in to my room, put away my things, and meet my colleagues downstairs to join them for dinner. We all loaded into a little shuttle that took us to the Rusty Scupper. It's a pretty popular place here in Baltimore if you are looking for seafood. And it's right on the water with a spectacular 360 degree view. We had a group of about 30 people and I even met some new folks I hadn't known before.

Then our consultant and I headed back to the hotel early, to prepare for our day tomorrow. He had to catch me up on what I had missed today, since we will be co-facilitating the meeting tomorrow. I would be lying to say that I'm not nervous!

We sat in the hotel bar staring at his computer while all our colleagues walked by on their way to the "party room." I had planned to join them when we finished...but low and behold, by the time we were done preparing...the party was over. Oh well! All, in all, I'm guessing the day will go "swimmingly well tomorrow!" Or at least that's what I'm praying for!

Another Day of Grieving...

This time the one grieving is my friend Brad and his family. Erin's birthday is today. They lost their beautiful Erin a little over a year ago...and it's still very hard for them all. Sadly, I understand...

Blessings and comfort to this grieving family. Yet, I believe Erin is enjoying her birthday today...and she is probably sharing it with her Grandfather. And who knows, perhaps she has even met Kenny by now. But the best part...she is perfect and completely whole once again.

From what I've learned about Erin, I'll bet she is up to some mischief this morning! I'm just guessing, she is spurring on the other angels to join her in a new adventure. With a big, beautiful, impish grin...she is saying, "Come on, let's do it!!!"

Monday

It was a long busy day today. Another all day meeting, tomorrow will be the same. Then I'll dash off to Baltimore for an overnighter...it's an offsite at the Inner Harbor. I've been asked to help facilitate the meeting. Then back again on Thursday and back to my crazy schedule.

Dinner tonight was fun with my friends Larry from Atlanta and Janet here from Headquarters. We ate at Chilis and laughed hysterically about the crazy waiter who seated us. I won't go into the details...it's actually particularly sad in view of the timing (you'll have to see tomorrow's post). But it sure shows how troubles are all about perspective. This guy...all in all...was mostly only worried about his damaged truck after it had fatally hit someone while his girlfriend was driving it.

The funny part is how he latched onto me...to tell me all the ridiculous details of his story, his girfriend's incarceration and his misfortune!! We were all shocked!!! It's just one more reminder that I probably need to stop being so friendly to strangers!!!

At the White House

I dashed home yesterday, showered and quickly got ready to go to the White House.

When we arrived we even got to drive across the barricaded road out front to get to the Secret Service building on the other side. OK...the Secret Service do get some privileges for risking their lives every day!!

We parked in the Secret Service garage, then walked right across the street to the White House.

Once there, we took our time and strolled through all the walkways of the South Lawn. You may not realize the White House is actually eighteen acres, so it was a lot of ground to cover.

From the South Lawn of the White House is a beautiful vista of a fountain and garden. And the view is complimented on the horizon by a backdrop of the Washington Monument and in the far distance the dome of the Jefferson Memorial.


We got to walk through the Children's Garden where children of the Presidents have pressed their hand prints into the walkway. It's very cute!



Here are the handprints of Barbara and Jenna Bush when they were much younger.

My friend even pointed out to me where the tennis court and the swimming pool are tucked away. Both are tastefully hidden by extensive landscaping. Unless you know about them you wouldn't even notice them there.

Just imagine...we stood right by the South Portico. It's where they welcome the Ambassadors and Heads of State. It's tradition for them, upon their arrival at the south door, to present their credentials to the President before they step foot into the White House.

I even saw the Oval Office...I was only about ten to twenty yards away. It's right next to the Rose Garden.



We saw Jackie Kennedy's garden too. Prior the to Kennedys it was only a square of green lawn, but Jackie had it made into a beautiful garden lined with topiary trees. It's sure a lovely addition to the front of the White House.

The highlight of our visit was listening to the U.S. Army Band. They played a few old movie ballads, some marches...and America the Beautiful! I sure enjoyed that!!

An Unexpected Surprise!

Hugh and Barbara's son Daniel is here from Iceland. Just like his Dad and of course his sister Eva, Daniel is also an accomplished musician. He lives in Iceland and performs there professionally. When I got to Hugh's house this morning, he said his friend Bear was coming over at ten so that he, and Hugh and Daniel could play together for a while. Dan and his wife only come to the States about once a year, so while he is around they get as much playing in as they can.

So I worked on my metal for about an hour...and I could have kept on going, but I really wanted to hear them play. We all headed upstairs to the studio...and well...what a joy! This friend of Hugh's, Bear...has been wanting to pursue music his whole life. But other things...as they typically do...got in the way. He is now trying to give it a go and well...I was in awe of his talent...both his singing and his guitar picking.

Bear has a really interesting and different voice. It's kind of a cross between Willy Nelson and John Pryne...and he writes his own songs. And man are they good. Hugh accompanied him on his cello and Daniel played a magnificent violin. Probably about the best I've ever heard. They went through quite a few songs and one even had me crying. It was called Goodbye Old Friend. Bear had written it recently when his best friend died. He had some others that were pretty cute...one about "old women" that I of course could relate to!! LOL! It had some lines in it like, "Grandma never looked so good..." Very catchy!!

After about an hour and quite a range of songs, they put their instruments away and Hugh and I got back to my metal work. But, hearing Dan on that violin and all of them together was sure and unexpected...and delightful surprise!! Wow!

On My Way to Hammer Metal!!

I'm dashing out the door in a minute to get to my apprenticeship. This will be another of my typically hectic days. Off first to get all grubby...then will hurry back again to get all "fancy-dancy" for the White House. And yes, Ara, I can take my camera. So, I'll be sure to snap some photos and post them here as soon as I can. Cheers!!!

Sh-h-h-h...it's a Secret!!!

Oh My Goodness! I am so excited! I’ve been invited to go to the White House garden tour tomorrow with my friend who is a Secret Service Agent!!! S-h-h-h-h…I’m sure it’s a Secret!!! LOL!!!

Karen had just said she hasn’t been to the White House in such a long time and would like to go. Boy will she be excited to hear I will be there tomorrow afternoon.

I will have to make a mad dash home from my metal class…and be a “quick change artist” in order to shower and get all dolled up for the White House. I’m quite sure I can’t show up in my grubby boots and jeans.

H-m-m-m, I wonder if I can take a camera with me??? I will have to ask…

Check it Out. My sister Lisa comments on the debate!!

Early Birds

Karen and I got up early this AM... at 4:30!! She is catching the metro to Union Station, then the train to BWI for an early flight home. Boy it's been great having her here!! Darn...it will be back to solitude today...

Last night Kyle and Jessica picked up our darling Chloe. You should have seen them! They were all so excited to see each other...and well, I'm really going to miss my little girl. Lisa and Noyan took care of Chloe Tuesday and Wednesday this week so I could go to work. When Noyan dropped her off last night...he raved about what a good little one she is. And...boy she really is. She even went to a school meeting with Lisa and did not make a peep. The teachers all wanted to keep her. That's my girl!! Kyle and Jessica have done such a great job raising her. I'm soo proud of them.

I'm guessing it will be a long day for me today. Karen will be leaving in a few minutes...at FIVE, and I will go ahead and start getting ready for work. I may even arrive there a little earlier this morning. So, I'm sure by mid afternoon my behind will be dragging!!! But, it sure has been a fun several weeks, first the wedding, then Karen's visit. The only down time of course was Nanny's funeral on Tuesday. And even that was a nice chance to see some dear old friends from years ago and revel again in the delight of Graeme and Cory's little babies, Jack and Eligh.

So of course, I am looking upon this day with mixed emotions. It will be sad seeing Karen go...yet it will be kind of nice to get back to my old familiar routine. And I've sure got some catching up to do around here. So it will be fine.

Of course yesterday...anticipating my return to solitude...I found myself searching the many, many faces as I hurried through the metro. Who are all these people? What's their story? And isn't there someone else out there who is lonely like me?