A few months ago my mom and fmil and I went to look for my wedding dress. First store, four dresses later and we found the dress. I absolutely love it and feel like a princess when I wear it. I did not want to take it off. I nearly went back to the store the next week just to try it on again.
It wasn't supposed to come in so early, but I got an email about two weeks ago letting me know my special order had arrived. The downside is that they won't store it for me. I love my apartment, but it's a fairly small studio and I simply do not have anywhere to hang a wedding dress for 8 months. Timing is everything. My neck finally slipped out after first trying to make my head explode (I was very near asking the fiance for his drill to relieve the pressure). The symptoms had been bothering me long enough that I decided I needed to make a quick overnight run home to see my chiropractor. (he's one of my favorite people right now) It was instant relief when he made the necessary adjustment (same one as always, go figure, at least I'm consistent) Since I was going home anyways, I picked up my dress and took it to hang safely in the back bedroom at my grandparent's house.
I was on a tight schedule and didn't have time to try it on at the store. I am so grateful that I was in a hurry that afternoon. My Mom and Grama helped me try it on before my chiro appointment. It felt so good to get into the dress, even though I didn't have the undergarments that go with it. (added bonus: it fit perfectly) I cannot even begin to relate how special that moment was when my Grama and Papa first saw me in my wedding dress. It was such a wonderful, special moment that I will remember forever, trying on my wedding gown in the front bedroom at my grandparent's house. Magical. Precious. Unforgettable.
Showing posts with label family. Show all posts
Showing posts with label family. Show all posts
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Monday, July 26, 2010
Summer Tales, Volume Two
There are so many summer stories that make me smile. This one makes my cousin Ariel and I blush and laugh.
My cousins and I always slept in the green room when we visited our grandparent's. It was formerly our aunts' room (including my mom). It has three beds in it, I always slept in the "big" bed. We called it the big bed because it was taller than the others, at the time I usually had to climb up from the other trundle-ish bed or take a running leap to get into it (much like my bed junior year of college that was lofted so high that it was occasionally comical to watch me try to get into it, especially if I was tired)
My cousin Ariel and I both woke up around the same time one night even thought we'd all been in bed, sound asleep, for some time. We weren't sure why we had woken up, but started whispering for a few minutes. We were talking when we heard a thud, followed by some other strange sounds. We thought there was a burglar in the house. We had a brief, whispered conversation about what we should do before hiding under the covers and pretending that we were asleep. That lasted all of maybe two minutes, during which I think we heard another strange noise. We decided we couldn't just lay there. We crept out of bed and cautiously opened the bedroom door. We peeked out into the long hallway towards the living room. Once we were sure we didn't see anyone, we flew down the hall to our grandparent's room. We woke up my grandpa and told him what we'd heard, then climbed into bed with our Grama while he went to check it out. He came back a few minutes later to confirm that everything was fine. We weren't convinced until he pointed out that their dog, Doogie Bowser, hadn't made a peep, and surely he would have barked if there were anything wrong. He then suggested that what we'd heard was merely the air conditioner. We accepted this explanation (though we probably secretly thought we'd heard something...this may have be the summer of "there's something fishy going on") and went back to bed. Naturally, it took us a while to fall back to sleep. Before we fell asleep we heard a similar noise...this time we realized that it was clearly the air conditioner, trying to rob the house of the summer heat.
My cousins and I always slept in the green room when we visited our grandparent's. It was formerly our aunts' room (including my mom). It has three beds in it, I always slept in the "big" bed. We called it the big bed because it was taller than the others, at the time I usually had to climb up from the other trundle-ish bed or take a running leap to get into it (much like my bed junior year of college that was lofted so high that it was occasionally comical to watch me try to get into it, especially if I was tired)
My cousin Ariel and I both woke up around the same time one night even thought we'd all been in bed, sound asleep, for some time. We weren't sure why we had woken up, but started whispering for a few minutes. We were talking when we heard a thud, followed by some other strange sounds. We thought there was a burglar in the house. We had a brief, whispered conversation about what we should do before hiding under the covers and pretending that we were asleep. That lasted all of maybe two minutes, during which I think we heard another strange noise. We decided we couldn't just lay there. We crept out of bed and cautiously opened the bedroom door. We peeked out into the long hallway towards the living room. Once we were sure we didn't see anyone, we flew down the hall to our grandparent's room. We woke up my grandpa and told him what we'd heard, then climbed into bed with our Grama while he went to check it out. He came back a few minutes later to confirm that everything was fine. We weren't convinced until he pointed out that their dog, Doogie Bowser, hadn't made a peep, and surely he would have barked if there were anything wrong. He then suggested that what we'd heard was merely the air conditioner. We accepted this explanation (though we probably secretly thought we'd heard something...this may have be the summer of "there's something fishy going on") and went back to bed. Naturally, it took us a while to fall back to sleep. Before we fell asleep we heard a similar noise...this time we realized that it was clearly the air conditioner, trying to rob the house of the summer heat.
Monday, June 21, 2010
Summer Tales, Volume One
My brothers are coming to visit me this weekend while my parents go to a conference, I'm so excited to spend some sibling time with them. On our way to meet up with my parents again on Sunday, we'll be stopping to pick up one of my younger cousins to go and spend a week with the boys. Reminds me of when her older sister and brother and I would spend a week each summer at my grandparent's house. Initially it was just me and Ariel, but when her brother was old enough he joined us for our week-long visits. We have all kinds of fun and crazy memories from those summers, stories that elicit insane giggles even now. There was one visit in particular that was one of my favorites, it was quite an eventful week.
It was the summer that Ariel and I started wearing training/sports bras. We were beyond cool. (trust me, this is important) As always, it was blazing hot - typical desert weather. Not bad if you have air conditioner and a house that likes to stay cool like our grandparent's do. I think there may have been some thunderstorm type weather, I don't remember exactly. But for some reason, the power went out one afternoon. It wasn't bad at first, but as the day went on, it got fairly hot. We of course made a game of it, as we did with most things that came our way. Well, Ariel's brother got to run around wearing just his shorts, boys stink like that, Ariel and I weren't happy, it was TOTALLY unfair. We tried to convince our Grama that it was so hot that we needed to walk around in our sports bras. I guess it must have really been hot (or she just knew, cause our Grama is amazing) because she let us do it. We strutted around thinking we were just too cool for words. To be honest, it did help cool us down.
Despite the heat, we were actually (initially) disappointed when the power came back on because it interfered with our no power game we had devised. We compromised with being able to watch Homeward Bound 2 but still pretending that the power was still out (ya know, minus the television...and the microwave popcorn)
It was the summer that Ariel and I started wearing training/sports bras. We were beyond cool. (trust me, this is important) As always, it was blazing hot - typical desert weather. Not bad if you have air conditioner and a house that likes to stay cool like our grandparent's do. I think there may have been some thunderstorm type weather, I don't remember exactly. But for some reason, the power went out one afternoon. It wasn't bad at first, but as the day went on, it got fairly hot. We of course made a game of it, as we did with most things that came our way. Well, Ariel's brother got to run around wearing just his shorts, boys stink like that, Ariel and I weren't happy, it was TOTALLY unfair. We tried to convince our Grama that it was so hot that we needed to walk around in our sports bras. I guess it must have really been hot (or she just knew, cause our Grama is amazing) because she let us do it. We strutted around thinking we were just too cool for words. To be honest, it did help cool us down.
Despite the heat, we were actually (initially) disappointed when the power came back on because it interfered with our no power game we had devised. We compromised with being able to watch Homeward Bound 2 but still pretending that the power was still out (ya know, minus the television...and the microwave popcorn)
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Pardon me while I have an excited wedding moment...
I always anticipated having a lot of fun planning our wedding together, but I think I seriously underestimated just how fun it would actually be. Even the littlest things have brought huge smiles and giggles. Of course the fiance teases me all the time about it, but he actually loves how excited I've been lately. It seems like everything is just falling into place since we booked our reception venue. We have our wedding party asked and confirmed. I found my dress!!! My mom and the fiance's mom came with me and we found THE dress at the first store we went to, 4th dress I tried on. I absolutely adore it, I didn't want to take it off. Now all I need are shoes and whatever jewelry I'm going to wear. We found the most amazing and delicious caterer, they are SO nice. We'll be booking them by the end of next week. I seriously cannot wait to eat at our reception. (we did a tasting a couple weeks ago) I have already asked my mom and the fiance's mom to make sure I get something to eat at the reception.
The fiance's parents are throwing us an engagement party/kitchen themed shower this summer, so we started off our registry with kitchen items. Talking about our entertaining wants and selecting things we would love to use was really exciting. What's even more exciting is that some of the items are being purchased. The fiance's counterpart at work was the first, her gift is the only one that I know what it is. (unintentionally) Let's just say that I absolutely love her to pieces and she is beyond generous. I came home last night to find a fairly large box on my doorstep from one of our registry stores. I was so excited, even though I have no idea what it is. I could probably figure it out if I wanted to though, I'm sure. The fiance says he knows what it is. He's so cute about the gifts.
We are just about 10 months away now and things are just perfect. I am so happy and having so much fun. Everything just makes me smile. I'll be even happier when we find and book our photographer, videographer and florist. Those are the only other major vendors we have left to figure out. Hopefully we will have everything sorted out and booked by the end of the month, including our honeymoon. It's really exciting, if slightly overwhelming to look at honeymoon options. There are just so many great choices and packages. The fiance is taking point on that topic though, which is both incredibly romantic exceedingly helpful. I love how involved he is with everything. He's not overbearing, but I get input and help making decisions. Did I mention that he's absolutely perfect? I'm so very, very blessed to have such a wonderful fiance.
The fiance's parents are throwing us an engagement party/kitchen themed shower this summer, so we started off our registry with kitchen items. Talking about our entertaining wants and selecting things we would love to use was really exciting. What's even more exciting is that some of the items are being purchased. The fiance's counterpart at work was the first, her gift is the only one that I know what it is. (unintentionally) Let's just say that I absolutely love her to pieces and she is beyond generous. I came home last night to find a fairly large box on my doorstep from one of our registry stores. I was so excited, even though I have no idea what it is. I could probably figure it out if I wanted to though, I'm sure. The fiance says he knows what it is. He's so cute about the gifts.
We are just about 10 months away now and things are just perfect. I am so happy and having so much fun. Everything just makes me smile. I'll be even happier when we find and book our photographer, videographer and florist. Those are the only other major vendors we have left to figure out. Hopefully we will have everything sorted out and booked by the end of the month, including our honeymoon. It's really exciting, if slightly overwhelming to look at honeymoon options. There are just so many great choices and packages. The fiance is taking point on that topic though, which is both incredibly romantic exceedingly helpful. I love how involved he is with everything. He's not overbearing, but I get input and help making decisions. Did I mention that he's absolutely perfect? I'm so very, very blessed to have such a wonderful fiance.
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Much Ado About Cakes
We went to Disneyland for my littlest brother's birthday instead of having a big party. He really wanted to go to Disneyland, and a big party just didn't seem to fit into the crazy baseball schedule they've got going. I seriously do not know how my mom does it. She's got to be superwoman, I'm absolutely convinced. Since we didn't do a big party, my aunt and uncle offered to do a cake for my brother at Easter for the family. Since I didn't get to make him a big, fun cake for his birthday, I got to make him a smaller cake for Easter. This is the first and only pre-formed pan cake that I have ever made. Some of the contours were a but more challenging than I had expected. But I am overall pretty satisfied with how it turned out. The little imperfections actually work for this cake, being a pirate ship and all. My brother was really excited about it, which was enough for me. The cake itself was a white cake with butter flavored buttercream icing.
This is the birthday cake that I made for my cousin Ariel. We almost always have a cake for her at Easter since her birthday. Since I've been learning to make cakes and can always use the practice, my aunt and uncle took me up on my offer to make the birthday cakes this year. My
Cousin loves bright colors and gerbera daisies. Her favorite color is green, which is why the accent border is green. I had a lot of fun making the daisies, even though I had to repair a few petals that I broke. Gumpaste gets very fragile once it dries...at least when I make delicate flowers. My cousin knew what the flowers were right away and absolutely loved the cake. It was a gluten free dark chocolate mix with an irritating but delicious cream cheese filling and butter flavored buttercream icing. All the decorations are gumpaste or a gumpaste/fondant mixture.
Saturday, February 6, 2010
Voices
It poured rain today. Fitting, in a way. I'd have expected nothing less for the memorial for Moe today. It was truly beautiful, it was breathtaking to see the number of lives she touched. Beautiful words were spoken, memories shared, tears shed. I thought I was going to pass out when Bells spoke, my chest was so tight I could barely breathe. I wanted nothing more than to wrap her up and steal her away from this awful nightmare. No 15 year old should have to go through this. Instead I brought her a pack of double stuf oreos, our favorite desert snack and one of her favorite treats.
My tenses are blurred, fluid. There is no strict line between past and present. Moe isn't gone, she never will be. I feel like she's just gone on a vacation or that I just have to run down to her office or out to the house for a family game night. She's always are the corner, just out of sight. She had a remarkable presence in life, an energy that can never be lost in death. She has become a voice in my head. I can hear her and see her, know her reactions and what she would say. Hear her laugh. It's strangely comforting. I know my guardian angel by name and hear her voice in my head and my heart. I can tell stories, share memories, but I can never truly explain just how special Monique is to me, how deeply she has touched my life. She will always be with me.
My deepest thanks to those who have left such encouraging and caring comments the past week. I haven't had the strength to respond, but please know that I have read each and every one of them and they have given me strength and each felt like a hug from a dear friend. And it may seem a ridiculous thing to admit, but yes, I have cried. Several times. Now, even. It is cleansing, it relieves the pressure in my head, I know it's part of the process.
My tenses are blurred, fluid. There is no strict line between past and present. Moe isn't gone, she never will be. I feel like she's just gone on a vacation or that I just have to run down to her office or out to the house for a family game night. She's always are the corner, just out of sight. She had a remarkable presence in life, an energy that can never be lost in death. She has become a voice in my head. I can hear her and see her, know her reactions and what she would say. Hear her laugh. It's strangely comforting. I know my guardian angel by name and hear her voice in my head and my heart. I can tell stories, share memories, but I can never truly explain just how special Monique is to me, how deeply she has touched my life. She will always be with me.
My deepest thanks to those who have left such encouraging and caring comments the past week. I haven't had the strength to respond, but please know that I have read each and every one of them and they have given me strength and each felt like a hug from a dear friend. And it may seem a ridiculous thing to admit, but yes, I have cried. Several times. Now, even. It is cleansing, it relieves the pressure in my head, I know it's part of the process.
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Process
But I don't understand, I don't understand how this all happens, how we go through this, I mean I knew her, and now she's...there's just a body, and I don't understand how come she just can't get back in it and not be dead anymore. It's stupid! It's mortal! and it's stupid! And Xander's crying and not talking, and I was having fruit punch and I was thinking that well Joyce will never have fruit punch, ever, and she'll never have eggs, or yawn, or brush her hair, not ever, and no one will explain to me why. ~Anya, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, 5.16 - The Body
Moe was only 42. She beat breast cancer, she was a strong, amazing woman.
Wednesday she found out that she had liver cancer.
Thursday afternoon she was in the hospital, then on life support.
Early Friday morning the tumor or whatever it was crystalized and burst, essentially poisoning her. She had a heart attack. They worked on her for 26 minutes. The doctor finally told her husband that they could continue and buy her maybe another 30 minutes, maybe a couple hours.
3 days. That's it.
I've only known Moe for about a year and a half. She was a dear friend of the fiance's and I met her through him. We all work for the same place and the first time she and I actually met was over the phone soon after the fiance and I started dating. I was helping her with some computer stuff. Moe is welcoming and loving, I was instantly family. She was a great person to talk to. She'd give it to you straight, because sometimes that's just how you need it. No holds barred, no secrets, you always knew what was on her mind. Without Moe it's fair to say that the fiance and I would not be engaged right now. She steered our relationship away from the rocks several times. We both implicitly trusted her, and she never broke that trust, not once. You could count on Moe. She was just amazing like that. She is a true friend, and I am so blessed to have had her in my life.
I am absolutely reeling right now. Like Anya, I don't understand. I cannot make sense of it. Death seems to be a concept that is too great for the capacity of the human mind to understand. It is most certainly beyond mine. I've glimpsed it here and there. I was so young when my aunt and paternal grandfather passed away. Too young for it to really hit me. The fiances grandparents hit, but it was subtle. Though I loved them, I barely knew them. Moe is the first time I am really having to face this head on. We were very close, she was a mix of friend, sister and mother.
I have many happy memories with Moe. And I can't seem to wrap my mind around it that there will not be additions to those. Nothing new. Moe changed the lives of everyone she met. She will always influence mine. I can hear her voice in my head, hear her laugh. I can picture the two of us nursing spritzers in the desert, spending most of the day pleasantly fuzzy and enjoying great conversation while the rest of camp was out riding the dunes. Moe is the reason I got back on my quad and still ride today. She was my teacher and my friend. She lived life without regrets. I know I will miss her. I'm not there yet, because I still don't accept that she's gone. It just seems like she's gone on a trip or something. Just out of sight around the next corner, just over the next dune.
Wednesday she found out that she had liver cancer.
Thursday afternoon she was in the hospital, then on life support.
Early Friday morning the tumor or whatever it was crystalized and burst, essentially poisoning her. She had a heart attack. They worked on her for 26 minutes. The doctor finally told her husband that they could continue and buy her maybe another 30 minutes, maybe a couple hours.
3 days. That's it.
I've only known Moe for about a year and a half. She was a dear friend of the fiance's and I met her through him. We all work for the same place and the first time she and I actually met was over the phone soon after the fiance and I started dating. I was helping her with some computer stuff. Moe is welcoming and loving, I was instantly family. She was a great person to talk to. She'd give it to you straight, because sometimes that's just how you need it. No holds barred, no secrets, you always knew what was on her mind. Without Moe it's fair to say that the fiance and I would not be engaged right now. She steered our relationship away from the rocks several times. We both implicitly trusted her, and she never broke that trust, not once. You could count on Moe. She was just amazing like that. She is a true friend, and I am so blessed to have had her in my life.
I am absolutely reeling right now. Like Anya, I don't understand. I cannot make sense of it. Death seems to be a concept that is too great for the capacity of the human mind to understand. It is most certainly beyond mine. I've glimpsed it here and there. I was so young when my aunt and paternal grandfather passed away. Too young for it to really hit me. The fiances grandparents hit, but it was subtle. Though I loved them, I barely knew them. Moe is the first time I am really having to face this head on. We were very close, she was a mix of friend, sister and mother.
I have many happy memories with Moe. And I can't seem to wrap my mind around it that there will not be additions to those. Nothing new. Moe changed the lives of everyone she met. She will always influence mine. I can hear her voice in my head, hear her laugh. I can picture the two of us nursing spritzers in the desert, spending most of the day pleasantly fuzzy and enjoying great conversation while the rest of camp was out riding the dunes. Moe is the reason I got back on my quad and still ride today. She was my teacher and my friend. She lived life without regrets. I know I will miss her. I'm not there yet, because I still don't accept that she's gone. It just seems like she's gone on a trip or something. Just out of sight around the next corner, just over the next dune.
I feel split. Compartmentalization to the extreme. A part of me is standing rationally (or irrationally, I'm not truly sure which) to the side, watching the other part of me curl into the fetal position, trying desperately not to face this. This horrific monster called death that stole Moe from me, from Bells, from the fiance, from all of us who knew and loved her. That rational part of me knows that everything happens for a reason and that she is safe and out of pain. The curled up one doesn't care because it hurts so much. In all my actions I can hear her voice, her comments and what she would say. I know we have a new guardian angel watching over us and the idea comforts me.
Monday, February 1, 2010
Tears
I think I might be falling apart. But I'm consciously aware of what I am doing. I compartmentalize pretty well...comes from having to deal with lots of drama over the years. I compartmentalize to function. Distractions help too. My mom's visit couldn't have been more perfectly timed this weekend. I had a wonderful time hanging out with her, watching movies and going to the bridal show. More on the happy stuff later. I'm not in a happy mood.
If I don't cry it's not real. I can't help the tears that spilled over a little bit...they were excess, and I'm exhausted, my eyes are tired. I know that it's not true, but there is some part of myself that is clinging to the idea that if I don't cry, then it's not real, though consciously I'm almost laughing at myself for such foolishness. It's not happening. It's just a bad dream, some awful, ill-conceived and incredibly early April Fools prank. I consciously know that this is not really the case. I know that the longer I ignore it while looking it in the face, the harder this is going to hit. But I don't care. It's unbelievable, therefore it can't be true. Tears are wet, tangible. They represent a detached reality that I don't want to face. Thus, if I don't cry, it's not real. I think it might be what they call denial. I'm not sure, I don't think I've ever been there. It's easier for my mind to detach. I don't like to think much. Thinking hurts when the thoughts are nonsensical and have no conceivable rational explanation. Compartmentalization to function. No tears.
If I don't cry it's not real. I can't help the tears that spilled over a little bit...they were excess, and I'm exhausted, my eyes are tired. I know that it's not true, but there is some part of myself that is clinging to the idea that if I don't cry, then it's not real, though consciously I'm almost laughing at myself for such foolishness. It's not happening. It's just a bad dream, some awful, ill-conceived and incredibly early April Fools prank. I consciously know that this is not really the case. I know that the longer I ignore it while looking it in the face, the harder this is going to hit. But I don't care. It's unbelievable, therefore it can't be true. Tears are wet, tangible. They represent a detached reality that I don't want to face. Thus, if I don't cry, it's not real. I think it might be what they call denial. I'm not sure, I don't think I've ever been there. It's easier for my mind to detach. I don't like to think much. Thinking hurts when the thoughts are nonsensical and have no conceivable rational explanation. Compartmentalization to function. No tears.
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Cancer is a Bitch
You might remember stories about my friend Renee. Her real name is Moe. She's my riding coach, but so much more. She's a wonderful friend. Her daughter, Bells, is like a little sister to both me and the fiance. We consider them family. Moe is one of the most amazing people I know. She is always there when you need her, always has words of wisdom to share, and you know she'll tell it to you straight. She is really, truly a gift.
Moe successfully fought breast cancer a number of years back. The fiance and I found out this afternoon that she has cancer again and is currently in the hospital. It's liver cancer, and it is aggressive, they have her on morphine right now. They are going to do an oral chemo treatment, I believe for about 2 weeks, which has about a 50% chance of having any effect on the cancer.
She is a fighter, I know that much without a doubt. But right now she needs all the help she can get. Please keep Moe, her daughter, her husband, and all of their family in your prayers. Prayer is an incredibly powerful blessing. Please pray for Moe. Pray very, very hard.
Moe successfully fought breast cancer a number of years back. The fiance and I found out this afternoon that she has cancer again and is currently in the hospital. It's liver cancer, and it is aggressive, they have her on morphine right now. They are going to do an oral chemo treatment, I believe for about 2 weeks, which has about a 50% chance of having any effect on the cancer.
She is a fighter, I know that much without a doubt. But right now she needs all the help she can get. Please keep Moe, her daughter, her husband, and all of their family in your prayers. Prayer is an incredibly powerful blessing. Please pray for Moe. Pray very, very hard.
Sunday, January 17, 2010
447
Not feeling well is not fun. Scratchy throats that induce coughing is not much better. Toss it into a three day weekend and it really sucks.
A fiance who is unbelievably sweet and will go out in the rain to get you mint chocolate chip ice cream to soothe your throat is absolutely incredible. A future mother-in-law (in 447 days) who makes you hot tea with lemon and honey because she hears you coughing from the other room is also incredibly sweet.
I am so incredibly blessed.
A fiance who is unbelievably sweet and will go out in the rain to get you mint chocolate chip ice cream to soothe your throat is absolutely incredible. A future mother-in-law (in 447 days) who makes you hot tea with lemon and honey because she hears you coughing from the other room is also incredibly sweet.
I am so incredibly blessed.
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
Happy 2010!!
Happy 2010!! I hope that everyone had a safe and wonderful holiday and New Year. Mine was amazing, if a bit on the chilly side. We left the east coast at under freezing and stepped out of the airport into 70 degrees. I loved the east coast, but I was sure happy to be home in my warm California sunshine.
I have lots of stories to share from up and down the east coast. Fun adventures, long walks, nights with my cousin and her boyfriend, historical sites and all sorts of fun. I think the highlight of my trip was sitting around the living room with my Uncle Don, fiance and grandparents on New Years Eve, just chatting for a couple hours. It was quality time with my uncle that I absolutely loved. That's not to say that the rest of my trip wasn't amazing, it absolutely was. That moment was just one of the most meaningful.
I spent more time on the east coast in December than I did in California. Consequently, I had my first real encounter with jet lag. I went to bed at 5:45 last night and did not get up until 6 this morning. 12 hours was wonderful though and most definitely needed. Sadly, the fiance's grandmother passed away while we were gone, so we were at her funeral yesterday afternoon. It was a beautiful service though, I think she would have liked it. The fiance is doing pretty well, but I'm sure that prayers would still be very much appreciated.
I've cleaned most of my apartment but still have a few things to do. The spring cleaning bug always hits me after New Years. I guess I just like to start the year out clean and organized. It will also help as we delve into our wedding planning. I'm really excited. I should hear back from the chapel wedding coordinator hopefully Thursday to secure our date. I am SO excited!
I'm planning to keep up regular posting this year, let's call it a New Year's resolution. Maybe not everyday, but at least a few times a week (though daily would be great). I will also do my best to get more photos up as well since my blog did initially begin as a place to post my pictures. I have a few ideas for some series/themed type posts as well, but more on that later.
I have lots of stories to share from up and down the east coast. Fun adventures, long walks, nights with my cousin and her boyfriend, historical sites and all sorts of fun. I think the highlight of my trip was sitting around the living room with my Uncle Don, fiance and grandparents on New Years Eve, just chatting for a couple hours. It was quality time with my uncle that I absolutely loved. That's not to say that the rest of my trip wasn't amazing, it absolutely was. That moment was just one of the most meaningful.
I spent more time on the east coast in December than I did in California. Consequently, I had my first real encounter with jet lag. I went to bed at 5:45 last night and did not get up until 6 this morning. 12 hours was wonderful though and most definitely needed. Sadly, the fiance's grandmother passed away while we were gone, so we were at her funeral yesterday afternoon. It was a beautiful service though, I think she would have liked it. The fiance is doing pretty well, but I'm sure that prayers would still be very much appreciated.
I've cleaned most of my apartment but still have a few things to do. The spring cleaning bug always hits me after New Years. I guess I just like to start the year out clean and organized. It will also help as we delve into our wedding planning. I'm really excited. I should hear back from the chapel wedding coordinator hopefully Thursday to secure our date. I am SO excited!
I'm planning to keep up regular posting this year, let's call it a New Year's resolution. Maybe not everyday, but at least a few times a week (though daily would be great). I will also do my best to get more photos up as well since my blog did initially begin as a place to post my pictures. I have a few ideas for some series/themed type posts as well, but more on that later.
Friday, December 4, 2009
When it rains, it pours - Updated
This was not the post I wanted to write today.
My Great Grams was in the hospital earlier in the week with what turned out to be pneumonia. My Grammy lives with her and had to call 911 to get her to the hospital. She was doing much better and came home Wednesday. This morning my mom called to check in and see how everything was going and hit their answering machine. My Grammy called her back to tell her that she'd had to call 911 again because this morning Grams was cold, clammy, had stomach pains (which my Grammy thinks was actually chest pain) and was moaning. That's about all I know at this point. Grams is an amazing woman, fiery and wonderful even though she is losing her eyesight at 93. She is my dad's grandmother and I absolutely adore her. I would greatly appreciate that if you are so inclined, if you would pray for Grams.
Update 12/4, 3:08pm: Grams is home. I don't really have any other details. (don't get me started on the aunt who is there atm) I did get to speak with Grams and she sounded good, if a bit tired. I'll update when I hear back from Grammy.
My Great Grams was in the hospital earlier in the week with what turned out to be pneumonia. My Grammy lives with her and had to call 911 to get her to the hospital. She was doing much better and came home Wednesday. This morning my mom called to check in and see how everything was going and hit their answering machine. My Grammy called her back to tell her that she'd had to call 911 again because this morning Grams was cold, clammy, had stomach pains (which my Grammy thinks was actually chest pain) and was moaning. That's about all I know at this point. Grams is an amazing woman, fiery and wonderful even though she is losing her eyesight at 93. She is my dad's grandmother and I absolutely adore her. I would greatly appreciate that if you are so inclined, if you would pray for Grams.
Update 12/4, 3:08pm: Grams is home. I don't really have any other details. (don't get me started on the aunt who is there atm) I did get to speak with Grams and she sounded good, if a bit tired. I'll update when I hear back from Grammy.
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
An East Coast Christmas
Never thought that would be something that happened. But it's official. I bought our tickets tonight. I feel much less panicked than I have since my mom first brought this up yesterday morning. We're working out the details, but we will be on the east coast for Christmas. I hate the reason we're going, but I'm looking forward to seeing my uncles and family back there. It will be interesting for sure. We are spending next Christmas with the fiance's family, whether that is in California or the midwest. It's only fair. Maybe Easter too.
Monday, November 23, 2009
Cancer Sucks
I've been trying so hard to hold it together all day. I can barely see straight. My words are merely syllables of frustration.
My mom imed me this morning to let me know that they are contemplating going back East before, during and/or after Christmas and to ask if I would be interesting in joining them.
I found out a few weeks ago that there are two new spots in my uncle's brain, from what my mom said today they are small tumors, between 1 and 5mm from what my mom said today. I don't know all the details, but they're planning to do some kind of localized radiation or something...I'm not sure. But I guess after that he found out that it looks like there are more coming back in his lungs and now a rib. I don't know more than the very basic details about this. And this follows on the heels of the news that a friend of my mom's, a mother of 7, has breast cancer that is much more widespread than initial imagined.
So we are looking at going back to the East coast for Christmas. This could be all just too much worry, but the fact that my mom decided to look at doing this makes me worry even more. My uncle is a man of great faith and has spoken so many times of truly feeling the effects of prayers. My mom said that he is fine with all of this, his faith is keeping him strong. Now if only I could share that. All I can do is pray. And in the meantime figure out vacation days and astronomical flight prices.
Links to a few previous posts about my uncle.
My mom imed me this morning to let me know that they are contemplating going back East before, during and/or after Christmas and to ask if I would be interesting in joining them.
I found out a few weeks ago that there are two new spots in my uncle's brain, from what my mom said today they are small tumors, between 1 and 5mm from what my mom said today. I don't know all the details, but they're planning to do some kind of localized radiation or something...I'm not sure. But I guess after that he found out that it looks like there are more coming back in his lungs and now a rib. I don't know more than the very basic details about this. And this follows on the heels of the news that a friend of my mom's, a mother of 7, has breast cancer that is much more widespread than initial imagined.
So we are looking at going back to the East coast for Christmas. This could be all just too much worry, but the fact that my mom decided to look at doing this makes me worry even more. My uncle is a man of great faith and has spoken so many times of truly feeling the effects of prayers. My mom said that he is fine with all of this, his faith is keeping him strong. Now if only I could share that. All I can do is pray. And in the meantime figure out vacation days and astronomical flight prices.
Links to a few previous posts about my uncle.
Sunday, November 22, 2009
The Farting Dog
The fiance and I spent the weekend at my parents house digging through (cleaning) my bedroom while my dad and older little brother were camping. My mom and I would like to turn it into a guest bedroom, but between all of my stuff and various things that she and others had tossed in there, it needed quite a bit of work. I gave myself three options: give away, trash, put away/box up/organize for later. It took all of Saturday and quite a bit of time today, but we managed to get it done. There is no way I'd have gotten through it without the fiance...he gave me the motivation when I was about ready to scream, and helped keep me on track. He even set up the frame for the bed my parents are going to put in there.
The weekend wasn't all work though. The fiance satiated our appetites with amazingly delicious meals: his special eggs (with veggies and meat mixed in), turkey wraps in whole wheat tortillas, amazing whole wheat pizza with a few special twists and buttermilk waffles with a touch of vanilla and cinnamon. We ate incredibly well, and my mom enjoyed the break from cooking. My grandparents were even able to join us for three meals, it was wonderful. :) My mom also rented The Proposal for us to watch Saturday night. What a great movie, we really enjoyed it. I definitely recommend it if you haven't yet seen it.
I'll leave you with the funniest story from the weekend. My parents' dog is pretty old (at least 14 years old) and she has what looks like doggie MS, she can move and stuff, but the nerves running to her back legs just aren't quite working properly. She's a Queensland though, so she's still eager to play and doesn't even seem to notice that she's having physical trouble. Since she was whining a lot Friday night and she and Kara weren't getting along very well this trip, we had moved her dog house upstairs to my mom's room for Saturday night. We were trying to get her upstairs (which she can still make on her own) but she just didn't seem to get that we were trying to get her up the stairs again. So for the second time that night I picked her up and carried her up the stairs. About 2/3's of the way up, she farted. (pretty sure I literally squeezed it out of her) My mom was a step or two behind me and was right in the firing zone there...and it stank. I forget her exact reaction, but I was laughing so hard I nearly dropped Angel. I managed to trip up the last two stairs and somehow managed to put the dog down gently without dropping her or hurting her before I ran into the wall at the top of the stairs. Luckily I got my hands out in front of me. It was a rather loud thud, I'm surprised I didn't wake up my little brother. I ended up sitting at the top of the stairs because I was laughing too hard to walk at this point. My mom got Angel into her house and we finally made it back downstairs, laughing the whole way down. I made it to right in front of the fiance (who witnessed the whole thing from downstairs) before I was on the floor again. There's something about ridiculous laughter that makes my legs and muscles not hold me up. I finally managed to stop laughing when the coughing started, but even that was kind of funny. (minus the part where I don't like feeling asthmatic) But it was by far the funniest story of the weekend.
The weekend wasn't all work though. The fiance satiated our appetites with amazingly delicious meals: his special eggs (with veggies and meat mixed in), turkey wraps in whole wheat tortillas, amazing whole wheat pizza with a few special twists and buttermilk waffles with a touch of vanilla and cinnamon. We ate incredibly well, and my mom enjoyed the break from cooking. My grandparents were even able to join us for three meals, it was wonderful. :) My mom also rented The Proposal for us to watch Saturday night. What a great movie, we really enjoyed it. I definitely recommend it if you haven't yet seen it.
I'll leave you with the funniest story from the weekend. My parents' dog is pretty old (at least 14 years old) and she has what looks like doggie MS, she can move and stuff, but the nerves running to her back legs just aren't quite working properly. She's a Queensland though, so she's still eager to play and doesn't even seem to notice that she's having physical trouble. Since she was whining a lot Friday night and she and Kara weren't getting along very well this trip, we had moved her dog house upstairs to my mom's room for Saturday night. We were trying to get her upstairs (which she can still make on her own) but she just didn't seem to get that we were trying to get her up the stairs again. So for the second time that night I picked her up and carried her up the stairs. About 2/3's of the way up, she farted. (pretty sure I literally squeezed it out of her) My mom was a step or two behind me and was right in the firing zone there...and it stank. I forget her exact reaction, but I was laughing so hard I nearly dropped Angel. I managed to trip up the last two stairs and somehow managed to put the dog down gently without dropping her or hurting her before I ran into the wall at the top of the stairs. Luckily I got my hands out in front of me. It was a rather loud thud, I'm surprised I didn't wake up my little brother. I ended up sitting at the top of the stairs because I was laughing too hard to walk at this point. My mom got Angel into her house and we finally made it back downstairs, laughing the whole way down. I made it to right in front of the fiance (who witnessed the whole thing from downstairs) before I was on the floor again. There's something about ridiculous laughter that makes my legs and muscles not hold me up. I finally managed to stop laughing when the coughing started, but even that was kind of funny. (minus the part where I don't like feeling asthmatic) But it was by far the funniest story of the weekend.
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Head in the Clouds
I cannot tell you how many posts have be in my head but never made it to posting because I never actually managed to find time to write them down. I have to admit, my head has been a bit in the clouds lately with wedding fantasies, plans and dreams. Suffice it to say that things are coming along quite nicely. :)
I'm heading home this weekend with the fiance so my mom and I can finally clean out and organize my bedroom so it can be used as a guest room. Don't worry, it's been planned for a while (partly so I have a place to stay when I'm home!), it's not just because I'm getting married. I'm looking forward to it, I haven't been home in a while.
I really am planning to get back to regular posting without completely driving you nuts with wedding talk and actually writing something substantial. Hey, at least I finally got caught up with my reader, right?
I'm heading home this weekend with the fiance so my mom and I can finally clean out and organize my bedroom so it can be used as a guest room. Don't worry, it's been planned for a while (partly so I have a place to stay when I'm home!), it's not just because I'm getting married. I'm looking forward to it, I haven't been home in a while.
I really am planning to get back to regular posting without completely driving you nuts with wedding talk and actually writing something substantial. Hey, at least I finally got caught up with my reader, right?
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Dancing with Angels
I didn't get the chance to know you long, but I'm glad for the time we had. I liked you from the moment I met you, the twinkle in your eye, the feisty nature of your spirit and your sharp wit. I loved to see your smile light your eyes. I understood that you didn't always get along with everyone, that you were often critical and cross, but you were always nice to me. I was sad as your health and mind deteriorated. I'm sad that I didn't get to know you better, to see you more, especially as things sped rapidly downhill. You were always in my prayers though, which was as close as I was able to be.
I know it is for the best. I know you're in a better place, out of pain, no longer debilitated by the degeneration of your earthly mind. But I'll still miss you. I never told anyone, but I had this picture of dancing with you someday at my wedding to your grandson. I think you would have liked that, I think he would have too. But I now won't get to, because now you are dancing with the angels. Rest in peace, I will miss you.*
*Please keep the bf and his family in your prayers. His grandfather passed away late Tuesday night.
I know it is for the best. I know you're in a better place, out of pain, no longer debilitated by the degeneration of your earthly mind. But I'll still miss you. I never told anyone, but I had this picture of dancing with you someday at my wedding to your grandson. I think you would have liked that, I think he would have too. But I now won't get to, because now you are dancing with the angels. Rest in peace, I will miss you.*
*Please keep the bf and his family in your prayers. His grandfather passed away late Tuesday night.
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Great News
I went to bed around 9 or so last night (cause I'm old like that) Put my phone on vibrate so that any "late" night callers wouldn't necessarily wake me up. Naturally, my phone started vibrating not too long after I'd settled into bed. It was my aunt...not one who usually calls me. It was unusual enough that I answered, curious as to the reason for the call. I was greeted not by my aunt's voice, but by my cousin, Ariel*.
"So you are officially my Maid of Honor!"
Me (sits straight up in bed): WHAT?!!!!!!!
My cousin got engaged last night :) I am SO excited. It's going to be absolutely fabulous. What wonderful news to get, I was SO excited. I couldn't contain myself. I'm so honored to be her Maid of Honor, she will be mine when my time comes**, we've discussed and planned this for ages, especially the past few months/year since we've actually been seriously dating and these topics have come up. I'm so incredibly giddy right now! It's perfect timing that she's coming down for the weekend because we're going to see Wicked. It's going to be AMAZING!
*Note: I use nicknames here in blogland. If you click the snazzy new "Who's Who" link up top I have a short little guide explaining each nickname. :)
**Incidentally, I've been with the bf to the jewelry stores several times. :) I don't mind browsing around and getting sized and stuff, but he knows that I don't want to know which one, price, or anything like that. There are lots of shiny and sparkly things in the jewelry stores. :)
"So you are officially my Maid of Honor!"
Me (sits straight up in bed): WHAT?!!!!!!!
My cousin got engaged last night :) I am SO excited. It's going to be absolutely fabulous. What wonderful news to get, I was SO excited. I couldn't contain myself. I'm so honored to be her Maid of Honor, she will be mine when my time comes**, we've discussed and planned this for ages, especially the past few months/year since we've actually been seriously dating and these topics have come up. I'm so incredibly giddy right now! It's perfect timing that she's coming down for the weekend because we're going to see Wicked. It's going to be AMAZING!
*Note: I use nicknames here in blogland. If you click the snazzy new "Who's Who" link up top I have a short little guide explaining each nickname. :)
**Incidentally, I've been with the bf to the jewelry stores several times. :) I don't mind browsing around and getting sized and stuff, but he knows that I don't want to know which one, price, or anything like that. There are lots of shiny and sparkly things in the jewelry stores. :)
Friday, August 7, 2009
Morning Rituals
I've always been incredibly close with my grandparents and absolutely love spending time with them. One of my favorite things was our morning wake up routine when I would stay at their house. (and quite clever on their part, I must say) When I was little I would wake up at the crack of dawn. Every. Single. Day. At my grandparents house I would stay in bed even after I woke up, listening very carefully for my grandpa's special morning whistle. Once I heard his whistle I would run down the hallway and jump into bed between my Papa and Grama for some early morning visiting. Papa's whistle still makes me smile, all these years later.
I won't get the special whistle in the morning, but I will get a lovely breakfast and day two of a fabulous weekend with my grandparents, kicked off with a fabulous jazz concert in the park tonight.
I won't get the special whistle in the morning, but I will get a lovely breakfast and day two of a fabulous weekend with my grandparents, kicked off with a fabulous jazz concert in the park tonight.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
