tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-493325035942082132024-03-05T16:02:42.426-08:00Boss' Sounding BoardThis blog is about stirring the animal from within. This blog is about finally tapping the inner voice and getting it out. It is about friendships, loves of my life and about the crazy thing we call society.Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276148136110932049noreply@blogger.comBlogger62125truetag:blogger.com,1999:blog-49332503594208213.post-35005555834341695512010-06-17T06:21:00.000-07:002010-06-17T06:21:39.201-07:00testLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276148136110932049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-49332503594208213.post-7576042251120325302009-06-18T08:03:00.000-07:002009-06-18T08:20:34.080-07:00Mid JuneWell this is the second week of summer school and I have 3 more weeks to go. It is going to be a long 3 weeks. :( I have given the students an opportunity to work in groups today and I think that seems to help a little bit. Them staying focused on the assignment is the tough part.<br /><br />My personal life has had it ups and downs. I am struggling to remain calm in my living situation. I am tired of being treated like I am one of Terri's kids and she seems to think she has the final say as to what happens at the house. I am going to live my life and if that makes her uncomfortable there are places she can go. I know that might sound harsh and hateful but I am at my wits ends. We have had several discusssions on how the living arrangements can change and I am sure there will be a change in my address in the next few months.<br /><br />Now to the ups. Kadee is a blessing. I am not a church-going person but I also believe that there is a reason for people to meet. I met Kadee back in September of 08 and we met again this spring. I am enjoying my time with her and she is certaintly a calming influence in my life. And she is FUN. She is OUTGOING. She is well READ. Did I say she is FUN?<br /><br />I am looking forward to Friday at the pool with friends. It is starting to get hot in St. Louis and a nice cool pool is perfect. This Sunday is Father's day and I will not be in Chicago with my dad, grandfather and brother but they will be in my thoughts for sure. I hope you they have a great day.<br /><br />I am working on my Master's degree through Ashford University in Iowa. It is an online program and I love it. I have completed one class and I am on my second class. I am enjoying the new technology I am learning to help with my teaching.<br /><br />OK back to work,<br /><br />Have a great weekend everyone.<br /><br />LauraLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276148136110932049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-49332503594208213.post-44214171683274370382009-06-04T20:42:00.000-07:002009-06-04T20:54:24.540-07:00Another School Year FinishedThe date is June 4th and another school year is over. This year had some major ups and downs for me. We lost, yet again, another principal and yet again we have presented a contract to another eager beaver. But we have not heard if she has accepted the contract. I guess we will know something in August.<br /><br />I am not really sad to see this class of students leave the building. I am not very eager to have the 7th graders come upstairs either. I had that group for summer school last year and I have heard many horror stories with them this year. I sure hope they mature some during the summer.<br /><br />I have decided to teach another year of summer school. It is too easy not to. We only go to school Monday- Thursday from 8:15- 12:15. That is not a difficult day. I am teaching the 8th graders that did not pass this year. I know most of the students that will be in my class, which makes it so much easier.<br /><br />I completed my first class for my Master's. I learned a whole bunch when it comes to different technologies that I did not even know exsisted. I am now working with my learning styles vs my teaching styles. That should be interesting because I found out today that the two different categories do not go hand in hand. I do not teach like I learn. I want to explore that more and I will have an opportunity this week when I complete my next assignment.<br /><br />I went to the Cardinal's game last night and sat in a suite right behind home plate. I took total advantage of being in the suite. Free food, free beer and sitting right behind the catcher and actually seeing the strike zone. It was pretty cool. Thanks Jenny and Emily.<br /><br />Here's to a sunny and warm weekend in St. Louis. !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Go CARDS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276148136110932049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-49332503594208213.post-74800600750746665142009-05-14T12:39:00.001-07:002009-05-14T12:49:08.594-07:00Off on Yet Another TripYou know, I feel as if I am always traveling. It has been nice to get out of town for some fun. This time I am going to Chicago to see my family and I am looking forward to the visit. I will get to see my grandparents, my dad and Betty and my brother and his family. I am also going to my niece's play on Saturday. That should be fun to watch. My best friend from highschool finally responded to an email, so I will get to see her as well. Her life has taken a few turns as well. Totally looking forward to sitting around and catching up.<br /><br />School is just about out. In fact we have 9 more instructional days left. And I am one of those mean teachers that will have something due right up to the last day. That is the only way to keep ones sanity.<br /><br />I am also halfway through my first master's class. I have learned so much about technology the last 4 weeks. BUT, I am not looking forward to writing a paper for my final assignment. I have some reading to catch up on!!!!!!!!!!!!!<br /><br />Ok, this is all for now. I will post after my weekend. Oh yea, I almost forgot. Brian and I are going to the Cubs game Sunday afternoon. The tickets are 11 rows from the field!!!!!!!!!!!!!<br />I am sure we will have a great time.<br /><br />Have a great weekend everyone,<br /><br />BOSSLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276148136110932049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-49332503594208213.post-34659048630801561382009-05-07T08:02:00.000-07:002009-05-07T10:38:23.369-07:00Ok OK Mary here you goI walked in to get my hair cut last Friday and got hit in the arm by my friend Mary. Her comment was, I like you blog, smack, when are you going to update it. So here you go Mary.<br /><br />My life has been a little crazy lately. I have spent the last two weekends out of town. One trip was for my 20 year college reunion. I really can't believe it has been 20 years since I graduated. But there were only 3 from my class there, that sucked. I would of liked to see more of my college companions. I was able to spend the weekend with a few people I don't get to see very often. Siobhan who is living in Denver and Doris who lives in Valley Park. I also was able to hang out with Bear. That was much needed. We had a great time hanging out and laughing.<br /><br />Last weekend was the annual trek to Memphis for Memphis in May. Kelly was able to go this time and it does what it always does that weekend. It RAINED. It rained from Friday about midnight to Sunday morning. So we made an executive decision to <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">skip</span> the music at the park and go to Beale Street instead. That was a good call. Kelly took a much needed nap after our "Fruit Juices" and lunch at Central BBQ. Then I watched a 50 -1 horse win the derby and then it was off to Beale Street and Wet Willies. I love me some frozen drinks. We had dinner at The Kings Palace, very good food and then off to a bar to listen to a blues band. We left around noon on Sunday to start back to St. Louis. The best musical groups were playing Sunday night but I did not want to get home at 2 am. I needed to be at school on Monday. Next year, I will try to save 2 personal days for this trip.<br /><br />My next trip will be next weekend to Chicago to see my family. I have not been up there since Christmas. My grandparents want to see this adorable face. I also fell into some pretty good Cubs tickets. My friend Brian bought some tickets to the Cubs games this summer to take his mom to Wrigley Field. She is having some issues with her knee so she can not make the game in May. So I get to go instead. <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Apparently</span>, the tickets are 11 rows from the field. I will have to cheer for the Cubs because they are playing the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Astro's</span>. I really don't like the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Astro's</span>.<br /><br />What else has been <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">occupying</span> my time.... well I finally <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">fulfilled</span> a promise to myself. I am working on my Master's Degree. I am doing it on line through <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Ashford</span> University and I am really getting a lot out of it already. This is week 3 of the 6 week class. I have already learned about much more technology to help me in the classroom. Pretty cool huh?<br /><br />The home situation is not the best..... I will continue to work on my self-control and my patience.<br />Enough said on that issue.<br /><br />I hope you all are doing well and take care of yourself and the ones you love.<br /><br />BOSSLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276148136110932049noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-49332503594208213.post-59897589510374998672009-04-08T12:20:00.000-07:002009-04-08T12:53:34.198-07:00I Was Fooling MyselfToday has been very frustrating for many reasons. The main reason is how the students that I service are not wanting to be accountable for their education. It really is a shame. If they only knew what other children in other parts of the United States and other countries go through just so they could have an education. These kids take so much for granted. I was just recounting my own frustrations I had in middle school just the other day. I wanted an education, it just did not come easy for me. I had to work to just understand the basics' in many areas. Most of these students don't even attempt any effort. They want to use anyone or anything as their scapegoat.<br />7 more weeks left and then summer vacation. That is the light at the end of the tunnel.<br /><br /><br />I passed out grade sheets today for a shock factor. I service 67 students, which really is not that many. A few years ago, I was responsible for 110 students. At this time, 29 students are failing and 8 students have D's. So that means that half of my students are not making the grade. AND, I heard from several students how I LOST THEIR WORK. Are you serious?! What EVER!!!!!!!.<br /><br />Then I tried to email Terri to get the lines of communication open and that did not go well either. I have set up a time to sit and talk to her and I will do my best to keep my blood pressure down.<br />But I have to say, I am very frustrated with the "conversations". It is like beating a dead horse.<br /><br />This is not a decision that I made on the fly, this is not a decision that I have not thought about for a while.<br />I am sorry our relationship did not last forever.<br /><br />It is time to make a transition. Yes, I have made the transition faster because I was the one not happy. But, I also expressed that many times to her and she did not stop to reflect or stop and change anything. SO why do I have to be "punished" because I made a decision and I am choosing to move on. <br /><br />I am not going to feel as though I did something wrong. I am not going to feel as though I did not "try" hard enough to save the relationship. All of you know me, you have listened to me when I have vented about this exact thing. How long have you patiently listened to me? It has been at least 8 months if not more. She is not going to take her anger and frustration out on me. That is not happening.<br /><br />Why am I even entertaining the idea of sitting down and talking? Mainly because of the pattern I have discovered in my life. I normally run and then come back later and try to talk things out. I am not RUNNING FROM ANYTHING!!!!!! If she wants to ask questions, she better be ready for the answers.<br /><br />Ok I feel a little bit better. Remember, comments are always welcome. I can take anything with a grain of salt.<br /><br />Later,<br /><br />BOSSLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276148136110932049noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-49332503594208213.post-62868268376732197462009-04-01T06:36:00.000-07:002009-04-01T07:10:53.941-07:00I Discovered a Pattern in my LifeSo here it is again, 3 AM, Wednesday morning. I have been tossing and turning in bed for an hour now. I finally realized why. I cleaned out my nightstand last night from the room I shared with Terri. I did not realize it would really affect me to do something like that. Well it did. Not so much the whole cleaning it out and organizing the contents of the nightstand; it was how the room looked. It was no longer my room. And that is ok; don't get me wrong. I AM NOT REGRETTING FOR A SECOND MY DECISION. It is the fact that she has the larger room and I have the room that still has a lot of "our shit" in it. I need to make my room <strong>MY ROOM </strong>and I am doing something to help make that possible every chance I get.<br /><br /><br /><br />In my room, I don't have a lot of space and I think I got resentful. Not of Terri but of the situation. I have a third floor and by all rights that should be now mine. But why should I displace her daughter because I want more space. Also, all of Terri's scrapbooking stuff went upstairs so if I did take that space I would still be sharing it with her and that is not what I want or need in my bedroom. So I came to the conclusion that I will make my room, which is a very nice room, especially with a deck attached, the best room I can. It is only a bedroom for God's Sake.<br /><br /><br /><br />So the pattern that I figured out......... it goes back to when I left Columbia in 1990. I was headed to Denver, CO to be with the love of my life, or I thought. (Sorry Siobhan) When I went out there for Spring Break to look for apartments, I was told that we would not be living together. I can move out to Denver, rent an apartment, get a teaching job, but no guarantees? What the FUCK!. So when I went back to Columbia, I had to come up with another plan. I had already resigned my teaching job, so I was unemployed as of June. I needed a plan. So, my plan was to pack all of my things up and move to St. Louis. Why St. Louis? Well how many school districts do we have in St. Louis? A bunch! That was my thought too. I would surely land a job in a district and find a nice apartment and go on with my life. Well, it did not work out like that. I had to place all my things in storage, stay with friends in Belleville for a few months before I found a job, any job.<br /><br /><br /><br />So here is the pattern, I box my shit up, live out of boxes for awhile before I land on my feet again. For some people that works. But I had to ponder the question why did I keep doing that? I must have repeated that process 5 or 6 times now in my life. So the pattern, as I see it is, I am happy for awhile in a relationship and then I run by packing all my shit in boxes.<br /><br /><br /><br />Am I punishing myself for failing? That is my question. Is that how my subconscious works? I must suffer in order to find my happiness again?<br /><br /><br /><br />This time, I am finding my happiness within myself. I have noticed a change in me, personally. A weight has been lifted off my shoulders and I am a much happier person because of it. That does not mean that I am not going to have set backs. I just thought it was interesting how I reflected on all the moves I have made in my life and why those moves were necessary.<br /><br /><br /><br />My dad did just told me recently, change is something that is good and that is what life is about. I know most of you know my dad or at least know what my dad is like, I totally looked into the phone like he had a third head.<br /><br /><br /><br />Change is good. I will be looking at my life and start to make positive changes. I hope you all will support me on this journey.<br /><br /><br /><br />I love you all and thanks for being my friend.<br /><br /><br /><br />LauraLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276148136110932049noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-49332503594208213.post-65493177716899685972009-03-25T10:40:00.000-07:002009-03-25T11:16:18.397-07:00So this is going to be a different blog. It will be about several different topics. Here goes:<br />The last month and a half have been a whirlwind for me. I have learned a lot about myself in that time. I have also become somewhat selfish. But I have answered all questions asked to me.<br /><br />I know all of my friends are concerned about my well-being. I know that and I appreciate everyone of you. But I must say, what ever Terri and I decide to do about the house is our discussion and decision. We have decided to attempt to live under the same roof until the market gets better and then sell the house and move our separate ways. I don't know how long that will last but we are both making steps to make the living arrangements more manageable for both of us. Once again, <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">that's</span> for your concern for my well-being. I love all of you.<br /><br />When I broke up with Terri, I told her and everyone else around me, I am not looking to date, hang out, move in with someone or anything like that. I am not interested in doing the "whole U-Haul thing". You all know what I am talking about. Well I have met someone that is intelligent, <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">witty</span>, a great dresser and very beautiful. I am still all about not wanting forever, not wanting to move in, not asking for forever. I want to get to know this person as much as I can and whatever it brings it brings. If it does not work out, I just hope I can have a good friend out of it.<br /><br />I noticed a pattern I had in my past relationships. I would get "with them" after I have been friends with them for awhile. What is exciting about this person is I did not really know her at all. We are asking each other our likes, dislikes and spending time talking and listening to each other. That is so very exciting and incredibly fun.<br /><br />So it was 3:33 am when I wrote this blog <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">originally</span>. (Bear you should of made a wish). Do I know where this is going to go? No and I love that. I am not analyzing this at all. I am sitting back and enjoying my time with her and my friends. I am enjoying learning more about me. I woke up with a smile on my face this morning (get your minds out of the gutter, I slept alone) I am a happier person since I made my decision. I am enjoying my work more and my life more. I hope you all can say the same thing.<br /><br />Got to go and get <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">some more</span> work done.<br /><br />BOSSLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276148136110932049noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-49332503594208213.post-61940645063251924722009-03-09T11:38:00.001-07:002009-03-09T11:38:59.538-07:00Vote for Tip Top's ChickenHey all,<br /><br />If you would like to help George and Ro out from Tip Top and you love their fried chicken, vote for them in this contest.<br /><br />If you have not had the chicken at Tip Top, get over there and try it out. It is pretty awesome. Tip Top is located at 9th and Victor in Soulard.<br />Later,<br /><br />L<br /><br />Also send this on to people that you know<br /><br /><a href="http://www.stltoday.com/blogzone/house-o-fun/house-o-fun/2009/03/poll-who-has-the-best-fried-chicken-in-town/">http://www.stltoday.com/blogzone/house-o-fun/house-o-fun/2009/03/poll-who-has-the-best-fried-chicken-in-town/</a>Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276148136110932049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-49332503594208213.post-32207189677269154732009-03-06T06:46:00.000-08:002009-03-06T06:49:03.426-08:00Grandpa and HelenGreat news to share with all of you. Grandpa was doing 200% better yesterday and he was released from the hospital. Helen was happy that he was coming home. They will be nice to each other for a few days and then probably back to <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">squabbling</span>, but they are here and I will take it.<br /><br />Thanks for all your prayers, they worked.<br /><br />Have a great weekend and get out and enjoy the beautiful weather.<br /><br />BossLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276148136110932049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-49332503594208213.post-75697221195828604582009-03-05T06:44:00.000-08:002009-03-05T07:51:53.072-08:00Sad NewsThis will be very difficult for me to write but I have to get it out of my head. I received a phone call from my dad last night and it was not good news. He was not bragging about the weather in Naples, FL or the great shot he made on the golf course. He called to give me an update about Grandpa and Helen. They both fell. This is the 5 or 6<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">th</span> time my grandfather has fallen in a year. But most importantly, this is the 3 time he has fallen in 2 months. But this was Helen's first fall. The doctors have run their tests.<br /><br />Background information: My grandfather and Helen are both 98 years old. That is amazing. They both have their mind, or at least most of it. They live in an assisted living apartment and just recently, they moved to the 4<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">th</span> floor because they needed more care. Yes we all know the end is near.... it is the end that is the topic of this blog.<br /><br />My grandfather has been a major player in my life. He would put a baseball glove in my crib, my grandmother would take the glove out and put in a doll. They would go back and forth with this until my grandfather finally insisted for the glove to stay in the crib. Well thank goodness for that because I can not see me playing with Barbies.<br /><br />My grandparents lived in Ceder Lake, IL right before my grandfather retired from the steel mill. They had a wonderful garden and a lot of room for us to play. There was a vacant lot next door to them that we made into a baseball diamond and a place to have <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">bon</span> fires. The whole extended family came over for the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">bon</span> fires. It was like a national holiday with all the people, food and fun.<br />I can list my best memories from that house and the time we spent with my grandparents and it would go on for pages!!!! I am not kidding.<br /><br />I learned to drive a riding lawn mower in Ceder Lake, much to my grandmother's dismay. After the grass was cut I would put that lawn mower in 4<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">th</span> gear and run it like it was a race car around my own track.<br /><br />My grandmother died when I was in 6<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">th</span> grade. What a wonderful woman she was. I have a lot of her in me. A few years passed and my grandfather married my grandmother's best friend, Helen. I was pissed when they told us.... no one was going to replace my grandmother. But she was very sweet after I was visibly upset. She came to my room and told me that she was not trying to replace my grandmother because she was an amazing woman. She just wanted to be part of our family. Helen fell and hit her head pretty hard but as far as we know she is <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">ok</span>. She has been ready for the lord to take her for a while now. She has lost her sight and most of her hearing and that is a shame. She was awesome to talk to and she was a avid reader. I wish her peace.<br /><br />My grandfather was one of my faithful supporters during my sports activities. He loved it that I took up softball. He used to play 16 inch softball in Chicago. He has one crooked finger to prove it. In fact he loved to watch all three of us play baseball/softball. It was a great day for him when he could be at the baseball fields watching all three of us play baseball. Yes I did say baseball. I played in a boys baseball league for 2 years because my mom was pissed with the politics of the softball league. Anyway, he would give us a dollar if we hit a <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">home run</span>. My brother Scott almost <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">bankrupted</span> him one year because he was the leading <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">home run</span> hitter.<br /><br />I played softball in college. During my last home game as a senior, I finally hit it out of the park. So during my graduation, I was called back up to the stage to get my <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">home run</span> ball, (I went to a small college.) And there was my grandfather with my dollar bill!!!!!!!!!<br /><br />John R Small is the oldest of 12. He was born on 1-11-11. We call him the 5 aces because of his <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">birth date</span>. He changed his name from <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">Smolinski</span> to Small because in order for him to get a good paying job in the steel mill he could not have a Polish name.<br /><br />I love them both and I wish them the peace they so dearly deserve.Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276148136110932049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-49332503594208213.post-74303374990093456702009-03-04T11:22:00.000-08:002009-03-04T11:30:45.974-08:00Loving LifeThe past few days have really made me think.<br />I have had fun.<br />I am smiling again, genuinely.<br />People have commented on how I am smiling again.<br />I have meet different people.<br />I strive to meet more.<br />I planned a mini-vacation with friends.<br />I am looking forward to the weekend.<br />I can't wait to sit a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Luvy</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Duvy's</span> on Saturday and enjoy a meal and time with friends.<br />I am looking forward to seeing Kayla.<br /><br />I am coming out of my fog....... I am starting to see how beautiful the stars can be again.<br />I am making my own life for ME. Not anyone else.<br /><br />What a great feeling.<br /><br />Hope to see you all at Rehab this weekend. I work from 7 pm to close.<br /><br />BossLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276148136110932049noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-49332503594208213.post-26318915054721639922009-02-27T11:35:00.000-08:002009-02-27T11:51:07.778-08:00The WeekendToday is Friday and it seemed like today would never come this week. I don't know if it is because I was so busy last week and weekend that this week seemed to drag on and on. Also there is not a lot planned this weekend which I am fine with. But I do find myself looking forward to Spring Break. I really was not planning on going anywhere but that has all changed.<br /><br />Now I am going to Columbia to visit my best friend for a few days and then off to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Tunica</span>, MS.<br /><br />I love <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Tunica</span>. I love to gamble. I love to go to different casinos. I also love the fact that they still offer free drinks if you are playing. THAT IS TOTALLY AWESOME!!!!!!!! I might also make it to Memphis and go to the Civil Rights Museum. I missed that the last few times down there. But then again, I can always visit it while I am down there in May for the Music Fest.<br /><br />We are getting to the point of the school year that vacations get planned with a day or two off from school. Us teachers need to revive ourselves someway. We plan long weekends.<br /><br />There is not much else to say today. I plan on getting my new room more organized this weekend and I will hopefully be in my new bed by the following weekend. I am anxious to get myself organized because I can feel myself getting kind of crazed because of it.<br /><br />Have a good weekend everyone.<br /><br />BOSSLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276148136110932049noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-49332503594208213.post-88391391936994772102009-02-25T13:21:00.000-08:002009-02-25T13:40:16.730-08:00Being BusyYou know there is much to say for being busy. If you are busy, you don't really have to reflect. If you are busy, you are usually surrounded by people. If you are busy, you can tell yourself you do not have time to .......... do whatever it is you are avoiding.<br /><br />I took a step yesterday to slow down and think about what I want. I want my own room, my own space. I want it organized the way I want and need it, not what is <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">convient</span> for others. I took the first step yesterday and bought some plastic containers to organize some of my clothes. Then I went home and and worked on getting something accomplished. And within an hour it was amazing how much I did. Terri even worked on getting her scrapbook stuff out of the room that is going to be mine for now on.<br /><br />This was not easy for either one of us. We saw our dream diminish. So I had to sit and reflect on that for a few minutes. Terri offered to do more in the room and I told her that we have done enough for one night. I just wanted to close the door and reflect. She left and I sat and looked around. Yea I could of gotten really depressed because I could of felt as if I was being reduced to one room but that is not reality. I have a house, a nice house. It will become a house sharing instead of a partnership but that is <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">ok</span>. It will be <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">ok</span>. I know it all takes time.<br /><br />I will work to get the bedroom the way I will be the most comfortable in and then I will finally purchase a bed and get off the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">damm</span> air mattress. Once again, it takes time. I have time. But I do want to get to the point that I feel COMFORTABLE in the house and not feel as though I can't say what is on my mind or do what I would like. If I want to stay up until 5 am I can and will and if I want to be in bed by 7 pm I can and will.<br /><br />These are my thoughts from the last few days.<br /><br />Later,<br /><br />BOSSLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276148136110932049noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-49332503594208213.post-33787829094344021962009-02-23T06:24:00.000-08:002009-02-23T06:42:25.737-08:00Yes I am Finally Updating My BlogHello everyone,<br /><br />Well the last month or two have been crazy for me. I came back to school the first of January and it just does not feel like I have stopped running since. I celebrated my 42<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">nd</span> birthday with a great group of people and had a wonderful dinner at Sidney Street Cafe. The service was excellent and the steak melted in my mouth. Then it was on to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Hummels</span> for <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Karaoke</span>. NO, no of us did any drunk singing.<br />The highlight of my evening was seeing my best friend, Bear, show up with Uncle Doug from Columbia. That literally brought tears to my eyes. I miss that Bear so much. But we are going to catch up in Columbia in a few weeks, can't wait for that.<br /><br />NOW on to the shocking news for most of you. If you know me, you know I have been in a relationship for 6 years with Terri. Well, I had to do what I had to do and I ended that relationship. I have not been single for 15 years!!!!!! Yea I am one of those that have gone from one relationship to the next most of my life. I am going to savor the fact that I only have to account for myself. The living arrangements are the same, it can get tense at times but we will work it out. Not much can happen with the housing market the way it is.<br /><br />Next up in my crazy life is my part time job. I have started to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">bartend</span> at a new bar in "the grove" called Rehab. Here is the link. <a href="http://rehabthegrove.blogspot.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">http://rehabthegrove.blogspot.com/</a><br /><br />My brother Rodney works very hard at updating all the fun times we have there. So please check out the link and come in for a drink. I work on Saturday's from 11 am to 7 pm. I make killer bloody <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">mary's</span>!!!!!<br /><br />OK that is enough for now.... I hope to see you out and about.<br /><br />BossLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276148136110932049noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-49332503594208213.post-56175822395765702182009-01-01T14:36:00.000-08:002009-01-01T14:57:45.299-08:00Happy New Year EveryoneAs I sit on my very comfortable recliner I am going to attempt to write this blog. New Year's Eve was fun. Terri and I went to dinner and then went to a party. It was a small group but it was fun. I enjoyed being able to sit and talk, play <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Wii</span> and just hang out. I did get booed off the stage during Guitar Hero at least 4 times. Ha Ha. Kelly, I need to practice more at your house so I don't <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">embarrass</span> myself anymore.<br /><br />We rang in the New Year and hung out for a little bit. We did not hear any gun shots until we got home and it sounded like it come from across the street.... great huh? Then we slept in. It was wonderful to sleep in.<br /><br />We eventually got up and I went to watch the Hockey game that was being played at Wrigley Field. It was cool to hear how much the players of the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Blackhawks</span> and Red Wings loved playing on a outdoor "pond". Then Terri made me feel <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">guilty</span> with just sitting as she was working on cleaning up the living room, so I started to make some moves to clean the kitchen. Well that only lasted for a short lived 20 minutes or so and I retreated back to my recliner where I still sit.<br /><br />These are the days that I miss. Just hanging out and watching college football and both of us on are respective laptops. She is playing a game and I am writing......... I love it.<br /><br />I am starting to get hungry though and I certainly don't want to cook so we might venture to Lafayette Square to see if Square One Brewery is open....... I am craving their beer cheese soup.<br /><br /><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Ok</span> everyone, I hope you all had a nice and safe New Year's Eve. Here's to a wonderful 2009.Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276148136110932049noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-49332503594208213.post-53823009797003185292008-12-28T20:58:00.000-08:002008-12-28T21:21:03.797-08:00Christmas Trip to IllinoisI am up in Sycamore,IL. If you do not know where that is, just think of where Northern Illinois University is located and you can get a general idea where Sycamore is. My dad and Betty live here in a very nice home. I even have my own room. They call it a spare room but actually it is my room.<br /><br />We went to visit my grandparents today. This is my dad's dad and his wife of 26 years, Helen. I wanted to watch part of the Bears game with my grandfather today. I really would of thought the Bears would of had more heart in them. If they would of won, they would of been in the playoffs. They faltered in the 2<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">nd</span> half. It was just really nice sitting with my grandfather watching a football team that I grew up with.<br /><br />Dad and Betty soon came by and Helen came back from her visiting. I was very happy to see Helen not in the apartment today. She hates just sitting in her recliner, she loves to talk. She does not have all of her hearing but she can talk. She tries to follow most of the conversations, but they are too fast for her. I was glad to hear that after lunch she went walking.<br /><br />Then after we took my grandparents to their dinner we headed to our dinner. I love the local pizza place in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Homewood</span>. We meet my brother and his family and had a Christmas celebration with them. His daughters are getting so big and mature. Amanda is on the second book in the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Twlight</span> series...... I guess I will need to pick this book up so I can have some intelligent conversations with her about this author. She thinks this author is the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">JK</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Rowlings</span> of her time. It does help when a movie comes out to help promote the series of books. Please excuse me if I do not spell all the names right.......<br /><br />Malorie loved the fact that she had the biggest bag of "Stuff". She is really into art so I was able to find her a cool art set with a black sketch pad. She also got two hand held games that she wanted. I was also very impressed with the fact that she was very good at sharing her games with her sister and her sister's friend.<br /><br />I did kid Amanda about the scarf that she was suppose to knit me....... I was looking for it in her present to me....... I will keep bugging her about it........ :) Well it is getting late and I want to read my new John Grishman book. I will post some pictures when I get back home from my trip. See ya all soon, if not please have a great New Year's Eve and go into 2009 with a bang.Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276148136110932049noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-49332503594208213.post-61850613360925457782008-12-18T11:35:00.000-08:002008-12-21T07:36:51.354-08:00Goodbye Grandpa BackerDo me a favor. If you choose to read this post, please give yourself enough time to really absorb what I am trying to express.<br /><br /><br /><br />I learned of my grandfather's passing Thursday Dec. 11<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">th</span>. I had a call from my dad and when I called him back we talked about his dad for a while and then I was told about my mother's father. Roman Reece Backer was 88 when he died. He was a man of many talents. He was a pilot, an electrician, he tried to build his own plane and he built an wind boat.<br /><br /><br /><br />I was not <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">initially</span> planning on traveling to Florida for the services. You see this man taught me a lesson even with his death. I was holding a grudge against him for 10 years or so. It was a stupid comment he made to me and I let it fester. The lesson I learned is there is no reason to hold a grudge because the person who is holding it is the only one that is hurting.<br /><br /><br /><br />I was very surprised with myself and how I was <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">genuinely</span> upset by his passing. My brothers and my dad have visited him in the last 10 years and I had not. It bothered me that he was gone. It bothered me that I missed some time with him. I really don't know how close I would of gotten to him, we, as grandchildren, weren't that close to him. Mainly because of the distance between Florida and Chicago.<br /><br />Flash Back to Monday Dec. 15<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">th</span>:<br /><br />So this is the day I go to say goodbye to my grandfather. My brothers and I were <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">reminiscing</span> last night at Jimmy Buffet's <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Margaritaville</span> Restaurant in the City Walk of Universal Studios. Orlando has grown so much since I was last there. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Ok</span> back to subject. We would tell stories of what we remembered. My brother, Mark, has a lot of fond memories of trips to Florida. He is also the oldest. Scott, my other brother who is 11 months older than I am, remembers riding on a wind boat that my grandfather actually built. Mark also remembers a time when Grandpa took the family flying in <strong>his plane</strong>. These memories are not mine, I was too young to remember these visits.<br /><br />This visit accomplished different agendas. We all went to Florida to say good bye to our grandfather but we also went to spend quality time with each other. We have not had quality time with each other with out wives, children or a parent around us. Yes we saw each other in August and spent some time together but it was not like this. It was comfortable, the way your favorite pajama's feel coming out of the dryer. Well it was like that. I really, really enjoyed the time spent with them. The other cool part about this is; it was not just me thinking this, they both expressed this as well.<br /><br />OK here is a story I remember with my grandfather. Picture it: It was Christmas in Chicago, cold, snowy and stuck inside because it was just too cold to go out and play in the wonderful snow. Well Grandpa and Nanny came to visit. I think I was about 11 or so. I was at the kitchen table playing <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">solitaire</span>. You know the actual <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">solitaire</span> game with actual cards..... well apparently I missed some move on the board. I started to turn over my 3 cards and I got a SMACK on my arm. I don't know if this was how Grandpa wanted to spend quality time with his ONLY granddaughter.... I looked at him and said, "What was that for?" His reply, "You missed a move." I then looked back at the table and still did not see what he was talking about. So, I once again tried to throw my cards down and I get ANOTHER SMACK. I just looked at him and he then pointed out the move I did not see. I quickly lost that game and got up from the table. Quality time MY ASS.<br /><br />There were many attributes about my grandfather that came up during the service. The pastor wanted us to think of one word that would describe him. Well one came to mind <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">immediately</span> but I would not say it. It was STUBBORN. It kind of came out later with bull headed. But once he got his point across, he would slap the table or arm chair three time and then just bellow in laughter. He had a GREAT laugh, one of those that are contagious. We learned many things about him just sitting around talking to the different people that came back to the house after the service.<br /><br />We heard from his wife of 40 years, that the last few weeks were very difficult. He refused to get up off his recliner... even when the doctor wanted to just get him to walk to the mailbox. He refused. Avis, we called her Nanny, told him that he was slowly killing himself. And you know what his response was...... "I DON'T CARE" We all know that is bullshit because he loved life. He was tired of the fight. The fight to keep weight off, the fight to only eat certain foods and the fight to not have happy hour 7 days a week.<br /><br /><br />I am going to share several stories from what we were told while we sat around and listened to his "family" in Florida.<br /><br /><br />A story that was told about when he was in the hospital. His legs were really hurting. He was retaining a lot of water and the stool he had to put his feet up was just a little too high to get them elevated. So Nanny asked if she could get him a recliner. Now you have to understand that after 4 p.m. not much happens in the hospital for the rest of the day. It was going to be a long shot if he could get the recliner that day. Well by some miracle, a nurse found a recliner and brought it in the room. She was a brave soul because from what we heard, the nurses barely stuck their heads in his room because of all his uproars. I am sure in that person's mind, she thought she would be looked like a hero or a saint. Well this is my grandfather we are talking about. He took one look at that chair and yelled, " GET THAT SHIT THING OUT OF HERE!" No one knows why he did not like the looks of the chair but it could be for many reasons.<br /><br />Another story Nanny told us was grandpa telling her to not give him a hard time. She wasn't giving him a hard time, he was just being, oh what word came to my mind at the service? Oh yea, STUBBORN.<br /> Well Nanny soon left the hospital and went home. She was <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">frazzled</span> but his high demands. Well the next day, she was came into his room and he <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">immediately</span>, said to her, "Uh yesterday, you were right about....." I asked Nanny, well did he <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">apologize</span>? She laughed..... he did not ever say he was sorry. Well at least I know I have some of his blood in me too, it is hard for me to say those words as well.<br /><br />Grandpa needed to have the perfect garage for all of his toys. He has one of the older full sized motor homes and he has a 2001 T- Bird. RED. HARD TOP. Guess how many miles he has on this car..... Just guess. ONLY 2,077 miles. This car is in mint condition. There is another story about this car as well. He wanted this car... so he bought it. A person refused the color of the car so Grandpa said, OK I'll take it. He asked the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">sale person</span> if he could sit in the car. He said no, if you buy it you can sit in it. So he pulled out his check book and wrote the check for the car and then opened the driver's door and got in. He wanted to pull it out of the showroom but the dealership did not have another car to display so my grandfather was asked to give them a week or so to get another car there before he takes it home. For some reason, my grandfather agreed to that, which I really don't think is in his character, but he agreed to the arrangement. Then a few days later a friend of his came to visit and my grandfather wanted to show him his car. SO they went to the dealership and it is in the showroom all roped off so no one can touch the car. People were all standing around looking at the car, he just moved the ropes out of his way and got in the car and told his friend to get in the passenger seat. He then said to John, "They won't let me start her up in the showroom!" People were standing around looking amazed that some man just got into the most amazing car in the showroom.<br /><br />He had to have a pole barn type of garage to fit these toys in as well as his plane that he was trying to build, his scooters and numerous other projects that he started. The amazing thing about his garage.. no matter how messy it looked.... he knew were everything was. A neighbor needed a washer for a sink faucet. He would say to her.... OK KID let's go out to the garage. Well she knew it would be a 45 minute <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">endeavor</span> just because they were going into the garage. She might have to get up on the ladder and go to this container, the third drawer to the right but it was ALWAYS were he said it would be.<br /><br /><br /><br />At the memorial service, we learned many things about the man we called Grandpa. He was a WWII Fighter pilot and when normally the pilots went on 15-20 missions, my grandfather went on 34. He was responsible for getting the dead and wounded back to base. Maybe that is why we never knew that about him.<br /><br />There was a picture of him, in his uniform, with my mom, who could not of been more than 3 years old. I have never seen that picture before. I asked Nanny, that is what we have always called her, if I could borrow that picture with some others so I can make copies of them for me and my brothers.<br /><br /><br /><br />He was married to Avis or Nanny for 40 years. Right after they married, he took the savings they both had and bought land for his vision of developing an Industrial Park. They lived on very little after they bought land by Fort <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">Lauderdale</span>, FL. They developed the property to be very successful and sold it about 8 years ago. They did very well for themselves. They went and bought a house on a little <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">canal</span> in Stuart, FL. I can see why he loved that property. It was on a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18">cul</span>-<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_19">de</span>-sac and it had two different views of the canal. After lunch, I went and sat out on the swing that is aligned perfectly to see the most beautiful sunset.<br /><br />Nanny has a lot of wonderful people in her life. Her <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_20">niece</span> has been a God send. Her fiends John and Jeff have been her rocks and her neighbors have been her stable companions. Nanny will be fine; she might shake a fist at Roman and say why didn't you listen to me and walk a little bit but she will know that he is free from his pain.<br /><br /> As the preacher said, "It is always too soon for the ones left behind..."<br /><br />Good bye Grandpa. I love you.Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276148136110932049noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-49332503594208213.post-62656057717660990622008-12-05T11:48:00.000-08:002008-12-05T11:56:29.329-08:00News Highlights for Friday Dec. 5thThis is a true case of excellent networking: Follow the link for how Obama is reaching out to his college buddies. <a href="http://news.yahoo.com/s/politico/20081205/pl_politico/16224">http://news.yahoo.com/s/politico/20081205/pl_politico/16224</a><br /><br />OJ Simpson just does not seem to get it. <a href="http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20081205/ap_on_re_us/oj_simpson">http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20081205/ap_on_re_us/oj_simpson</a><br /><br />When will the Illinois Governor's Learn? <a href="http://www.stltoday.com/stltoday/news/stories.nsf/illinoisnews/story/5C98EBD91CE8F03B862575160065B9F4?OpenDocument">http://www.stltoday.com/stltoday/news/stories.nsf/illinoisnews/story/5C98EBD91CE8F03B862575160065B9F4?OpenDocument</a><br /><br />We know the global economy is getting bad when....<br /><a href="http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap_travel/20081205/ap_tr_ge/eu_travel_brief_piracy_cruise_insurance">http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap_travel/20081205/ap_tr_ge/eu_travel_brief_piracy_cruise_insurance</a>Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276148136110932049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-49332503594208213.post-48177282554686182372008-12-05T06:34:00.000-08:002008-12-05T06:39:04.613-08:00PROP 8 VIDEO-CHECK IT OUTI stopped by Luvy Duvy's yesterday after shopping for the Christmas Party. I needed a liquid refreshment, if you know what I mean.<br /><br />We started talking about the ecomomy and how Prop 8 is losing a bunch of money by not letting "US" get married.<br /><br />Check out this link: <a href="http://www.funnyordie.com/videos/c0cf508ff8/prop-8-the-musical-starring-jack-black-john-c-reilly-and-many-more-from-fod-team-jack-black-craig-robinson-john-c-reilly-and-rashida-jones">http://www.funnyordie.com/videos/c0cf508ff8/prop-8-the-musical-starring-jack-black-john-c-reilly-and-many-more-from-fod-team-jack-black-craig-robinson-john-c-reilly-and-rashida-jones</a><br /><br />Carrie Underwood you should be scared with your stop in St. Louis. We have been waiting for you with baited breathe. I actually saw her tour buses coming into Chaivitz Area this morning. I was so excited.... I just had to call my Brother and yell BOOTIE BOOTIE BOOTIE.Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276148136110932049noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-49332503594208213.post-6876564978688183142008-12-04T11:44:00.000-08:002008-12-04T12:32:47.389-08:00Christmas from Years PastMy mom was a fanatic about Christmas much the same way Terri is. Christmas preparations were actually a family event. We all pitched in, even my brothers. My dad got the decorations down from the unfinished upper level and my mom bossed us all around to get things out. When we left for school she would put the items exactly were she wanted them. She also infused some of her homemade ceramics into the decor. She was very talented, in many ways, she was just very <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">subtle</span> about it.<br /><br />Christmas <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">traditions</span> were as follows:<br /><br />Christmas Eve was opening one present before we went to dinner. Then we would meet my grandpa and Helen, Uncle Jerry, Aunt Alice and Cousin Jennifer. We started off going to restaurants, then to my Grandpa's house then to Uncle Jerry's. After my mom passed away we actually had people over to the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Flossmoor</span> house, oh what a hassle that was. The last time we all got together was at my cousin Jennifer's house. I miss those times when we got together for dinner and sit around and talk about what was going on with each of us.<br /><br />My Uncle Jerry can be very funny and it was a rare year when we witnessed my dad and my uncle actually getting along and laughing together. They have lived close to each other all of their years but they have never been close.<br /><br />Then on Christmas we would load up the car and head either to my grandparents house when my grandmother was still alive or head to Aunt Bev's. Aunt Bev was my mom's aunt and what a cool woman she is. She had 6 kids and they all had kids of their own. SO it was a house that had a lot of activity. I enjoyed going out there because it was like going to your best friend's house instead of a relatives house. It was very informal and comfortable.<br /><br />It does seem the older I get the more I miss those times and those connections. I do think that the connections I have made with my extended family is what I miss the most. We have a huge family and it just seems that I do not see them enough anymore. It is not that I never make it back to Chicago because I do. I just don't make it back for the weddings and unfortuntally the funnerals.<br /><br />I would like to continue a tradition my Uncle Carl started many years ago. He had an Open House Christmas Eve. This is where the long lost cousins could gather and chew the fat with each other for a few hours. As I got older, I really looked forward to the gathering. This was the opportunity to see the cousins that we would not be able to see all year. Uncle Carl and Aunt Mary were gracious hosts and provided wonderful food and drink. Many times, my brother Scott and I would be there until 3 am.<br /><br />I want to continue the tradition. So if you are around town this Christmas Eve, please come by the house for some holiday cheer and breakfast.<br /><br /><span style="color:#009900;">PEACE AND LOVE THIS HOLIDAY SEASON</span>Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276148136110932049noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-49332503594208213.post-50895933115626030502008-12-03T10:15:00.000-08:002008-12-03T10:36:24.266-08:00I must admit that I was one of the crazy people out on Black Friday and I spent some money. I wanted a 32" plasma <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">tv</span> and I got one. I actually had a nice time for the most part. I did get a little <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">crazied</span> in the mall parking lot. I drove around to look for a parking spot but never found one and never got out of the car at the mall. I did my shopping at <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Wal</span>-Mart, Target, Michael's and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Walgreens</span>. You all should be scared if you are lucky enough to get a present from me. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">HAHA</span>!<br /><br />I was listening to Y98 this morning and they were talking about gift cards, the pros and cons to the cards and then they mentioned the different stores that are closing around the US. See the link to view the different stores.<br /><br /><a href="http://money.aol.com/special/retail-stores-closing-doors">http://money.aol.com/special/retail-stores-closing-doors</a><br /><br />I am mentioning this because I am one of the lucky few that will not need to worry about layoffs and cut backs. I am very secure in my profession and in my job. The recession has to hit pretty bad for my paycheck to be affected.<br /><br />But what about my friends that are not in my same field? The shit has not totally hit the fan yet, we, as a society, do not really understand how much we are behind the 8 ball, so to speak. When is it going to hit? My dad and Betty have lost thousands during the Wall Street Collapse. They are fortunate to not have to depend on their investments to live day to day. How many of you need that to live on in 20 years?<br /><br />What is the answer to this problem? How do we keep our friends and relatives working?<br /><br />I have several friends that are struggling to make ends meat in their own business. They need all of us!!!!! If you are able, please support <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Luvy</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Duvy's</span> at the corner of Arsenal and Jefferson and Tip Top which is located in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Soulard</span> at 9<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">th</span> and Victor.<br />Both places are very dear to me and they would love to spoil you with their good eats.<br /><br />This crisis we are in will take all of us to get through this. But, isn't that what we are suppose to do? Aren't we told as a little oneS that we are supposeD to look out for our friends?<br /><br />Let's look out for each other. If someone needs a helping hand and you can help, do so.<br /><br />Hope to see you all at <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Luvy</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Duvy's</span> or Tip Top.<br /><br />PEACELaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276148136110932049noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-49332503594208213.post-22078580663739626112008-11-24T07:29:00.000-08:002008-11-24T07:47:29.373-08:00The HolidaysI know, I know, I have not written for a while and I have had a bunch of things roll through my head. I did attend the Show No Hate Rally a few weeks ago and since it was bitter cold outside I think I caught the crap that is working its way through the schools. I am feeling somewhat better now. I wanted to catch up and let you all know what the holidays are going to bring to me.<br /><br />This season is usually very festive....... all the decorations that go up in my house is frightening. Let's just say, I get very <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">familiar</span> with the basement steps. I would say there are at least 10 tubs of Christmas decorations that come up stairs. This will be our second Christmas in our new house and since we have some new furniture, the living room should be more open this year.<br /><br />This season is also bitter, my partner's mom has been in a hospital or nursing home since Jan. of this year. She had a good day yesterday but has not had good days leading up to yesterday. Please, if you pray, please pray for Betty. She is a wonderful woman and does not need to suffer like this. So that puts a big strain on my partner and once again her family is <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">AWOL</span> or however you spell that word. We have spent the last week if not two going through all of her medical bills. If you can get long-term care insurance now, do so. Trust me we will all need it later.<br /><br />My grandfather also went into the hospital 2 weeks ago. Now he is 97. He has lived a great life and he is still fighting. His wife Helen is 98 and she is at the facility by herself right now. So once again, if you are the praying type, please pray for John and Helen Small. They need <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">GOD's</span> strength now.<br /><br />As you can see, my heart is heavy this holiday season. I plan on cooking Thanksgiving Dinner and sure hope it is better than the dinner that I tried to cook last night, boy did that suck. I plan on going shopping the day after Thanksgiving. It is always wonderful when the school district gives us our paychecks early so we can go out and spend a few more bucks. I also plan on getting most of my shopping finished before Dec. 24<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">th</span>. But we will have to see.<br /><br />I am not going to shop for my Dad and Betty until I get to Chicago after Christmas, the deals at Kohl's are too grand to pass up the days after Christmas.<br /><br />I hope everyone has a wonderful Thanksgiving. Try to do what the day is intended to do, sit and relax and be with the people you love.<br /><br />For all you bitches that will be in town for Thanksgiving, come by the house after 8 for some holiday cheer.<br /><br />Love ya all,<br /><br />BOSSLaurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276148136110932049noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-49332503594208213.post-22861566252607561082008-11-06T07:53:00.000-08:002008-11-06T08:15:48.821-08:00Historic ElectionIt was a historic election from how much money was spent to how many people voted to the wait time at the polls. I opted out of the wait time at the polls and vote by <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">absentee</span> vote last Friday.<br /><br />My observation and only my observation: I have noticed this country sliding backwards on many <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">fundamental</span> issues. I have noticed an increase in <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">racism</span>. I have noticed an increase in losing human rights.<br /><br />I can't understand why Arkansas would even think of not allowing people in same sex relationships to lose the right to foster or adopt children. THIS IS 2008 RIGHT?<br /><br />So Arkansas wants the kids, that could have loving homes, stay in situations that seems to breed more and more unstable kids because they are in homes that really don't want them but the people that run these homes want the governments money?<br /><br />That is what it all boils down to. People want the governments money. Why else would a state decide that people who love each other and have committed to each other can not raise children that have been given away. Why not? Why would the people vote for this? I hope it is not a national trend. If it becomes one, like the gay marriage amendments, we, as a people as a nation are in trouble. Also, why have I not heard about this before it was over? Where was the news coverage on that?<br /><br />The news can cover how <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">ridiculous</span> Sarah <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Palin</span> is but we can't hear about states taking away rights of their people?<br /><br />I have witnessed a part of our history but it is not all <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">rosey</span> as it seems.Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276148136110932049noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-49332503594208213.post-75704520648723463822008-10-27T10:41:00.000-07:002008-10-27T10:47:33.919-07:00It is amazing what a little vision will do when it comes to decorating for a party. Joe, you did a fantastic job putting those lights together. Dougie and Rodney, you did a wonderful job with the front of the house. I will post a few pics so those of you that missed this wonderful party you can share with the rest of us. Rodger, I will need to get the pics from you, I am especially wanting are the pictures of the front.<br /><br />Saturday was a wonderful party and I just don't know how that will be topped in January. Start thinking boys............<br /><br />The next party is Brian's but it won't be in my backyard. It will be someplace warm since it is in December.Laurahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08276148136110932049noreply@blogger.com3