When I graduated from MU, I moved home and was teaching at a local high school. Although I was making good money, I couldn't wait to move away. Maybe it was because Noah lived elsewhere or maybe I just thought that's what I needed to do to grow up and start a new chapter. Either way, I was so looking forward to moving away.
Now that I have, been away, I can say wholeheartedly, I miss the small town.
I went to a market today and the whole setting made me miss my small town. It reminded me of Sunny Way. The times that Shey and I used to go with grandma or mom and they would buy chicken gizzards...gross. Still think it's totally gross. I miss the Milky Way- quite possibly the greasiest "diner" you'll ever see but their burger baskets are awesome. Oh, and the brownie delights...(I'm cleaning up the droll now.)
Or the town fests they have when they shut down the whole town for crafts that you already have and food that is terrible for you. The only reason you go is to see the people that you don't see any other time.
Or the parades they have for every holiday and the fact that they run the parade in each town on the same day. I marched in those parades as a teen and I miss going to them. Wrapping up in a big blanket and watching all the bands and classic cars.
Or the giant yard to have fun and fires in. I miss having a yard. I wish Ayden could just run around behind our house and throw a ball with Mac. And at night, we would make a fire and roast marshmallows.
I miss all of these things...I miss the small town life.
Friday, August 30, 2013
Sunday, August 18, 2013
How does He do it- think on these things...
It's that time of year again....
School time.
As a teacher, I work non-stop until June 11th (or so) and when that time comes, I remove my watch, read an actual book, hang out with and teach my own child, and actually go to the bathroom when I want. All of these things are about to stop. And I don't care who you are or how much you love teaching, when those K-Mart and Old Navy ads for "back to school" layaway start, you cringe! I have literally walked through WalMart with my hand over my eyes so that I don't have to see the "Dollar Deals" they have on notebooks, post-its, pencils, and highlighters.
No teacher really LOVES and counts down until they can spend every minute worrying about that kid that doesn't talk or when they can review all their IEP's...no teacher likes that. Even last week, I started getting headaches, just thinking about all the stuff I need to do.
If you know me, you know that I am not a very "laid back" person. I admit it. I'm a narotic, OCD, crazy, hyperactive worrier. I am a teacher that takes it home. I know I shouldn't but I don't do a job for the money...obviously, I'm a teacher. I genuinely want to help all students grow into the people they should be to make it through this crazy world. I want to teach them things. I want to help them in their lives. I want them to know that I'm there for them. And unfortunately, I don't know how to do that and not think about all of my students when I leave. I care about my "kids" and that doesn't stop at 2:45pm. As much as I wish I could do that. I worry...
Today, in church, we had a different pastor. Well he's not different but he doesn't always do the services so he's new to me. Dan is the starter of Gateway and is not one to tip toe around feelings. He is more than happy to tell you exactly what the Word says and what we need to be doing, himself included. Today was no different.
Dan read Philippians 4:1-8... I particularly love this passage because it really speaks to me.
8 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.
Two things hit me with that:
1. 4:6: Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. I worry. I've said that many times before. I tend to get very worried and think about things that never end up happening. Dan read a study that had been done by a psychiatrist about people and how they worry. In this study he found out that 40% of the things we worry about never end up happening. 20% of the things we worry about are in the past. Only about 8% of the things we worry about are worth it. 8%!!! Can you imagine how liberating it would be to be able to weed through the things we worry about and know which ones are worth it? But through this, through God, we don't have to worry. (Also see 1 Peter 5:7 or Mathew 6:34)
2. 4:8: Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable- if anything is excellent or praiseworthy- think about such things. I know this verse from way back but it has taken on different meanings now. As some teachers get more and more years, we can become cynical, mean, and negative. I was warned about this by my student teaching co-op and didn't know that it could be this bad. It's easy to fall into that trap of being negative too. It happens very easily. You look up to older teachers for encouragement and find negativity as well. Last year was a very negative year for me and I really didn't like where I was or how I was with the students. This passage speaks to me because we become what we think and say. If what I'm thinking or saying only negativity, what can I expect to happen? This will be my guide to positivity.
So here's to a good year...think on these things.
School time.
As a teacher, I work non-stop until June 11th (or so) and when that time comes, I remove my watch, read an actual book, hang out with and teach my own child, and actually go to the bathroom when I want. All of these things are about to stop. And I don't care who you are or how much you love teaching, when those K-Mart and Old Navy ads for "back to school" layaway start, you cringe! I have literally walked through WalMart with my hand over my eyes so that I don't have to see the "Dollar Deals" they have on notebooks, post-its, pencils, and highlighters.
No teacher really LOVES and counts down until they can spend every minute worrying about that kid that doesn't talk or when they can review all their IEP's...no teacher likes that. Even last week, I started getting headaches, just thinking about all the stuff I need to do.
If you know me, you know that I am not a very "laid back" person. I admit it. I'm a narotic, OCD, crazy, hyperactive worrier. I am a teacher that takes it home. I know I shouldn't but I don't do a job for the money...obviously, I'm a teacher. I genuinely want to help all students grow into the people they should be to make it through this crazy world. I want to teach them things. I want to help them in their lives. I want them to know that I'm there for them. And unfortunately, I don't know how to do that and not think about all of my students when I leave. I care about my "kids" and that doesn't stop at 2:45pm. As much as I wish I could do that. I worry...
Today, in church, we had a different pastor. Well he's not different but he doesn't always do the services so he's new to me. Dan is the starter of Gateway and is not one to tip toe around feelings. He is more than happy to tell you exactly what the Word says and what we need to be doing, himself included. Today was no different.
Dan read Philippians 4:1-8... I particularly love this passage because it really speaks to me.
Closing Appeal for Steadfastness and Unity
4 Therefore, my brothers and sisters, you whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm in the Lord in this way, dear friends!
2 I plead with Euodia and I plead with Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord. 3 Yes,
and I ask you, my true companion, help these women since they have
contended at my side in the cause of the gospel, along with Clement and
the rest of my co-workers, whose names are in the book of life.
Final Exhortations
4 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5 Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.8 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.
Two things hit me with that:
1. 4:6: Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. I worry. I've said that many times before. I tend to get very worried and think about things that never end up happening. Dan read a study that had been done by a psychiatrist about people and how they worry. In this study he found out that 40% of the things we worry about never end up happening. 20% of the things we worry about are in the past. Only about 8% of the things we worry about are worth it. 8%!!! Can you imagine how liberating it would be to be able to weed through the things we worry about and know which ones are worth it? But through this, through God, we don't have to worry. (Also see 1 Peter 5:7 or Mathew 6:34)
2. 4:8: Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable- if anything is excellent or praiseworthy- think about such things. I know this verse from way back but it has taken on different meanings now. As some teachers get more and more years, we can become cynical, mean, and negative. I was warned about this by my student teaching co-op and didn't know that it could be this bad. It's easy to fall into that trap of being negative too. It happens very easily. You look up to older teachers for encouragement and find negativity as well. Last year was a very negative year for me and I really didn't like where I was or how I was with the students. This passage speaks to me because we become what we think and say. If what I'm thinking or saying only negativity, what can I expect to happen? This will be my guide to positivity.
So here's to a good year...think on these things.
Thursday, August 1, 2013
The Dance...12 years later
Today will always be a somewhat challenging day. Even after this amount of time, I haven't been able to explain to others why it still strikes a chord but I can only say to them "I'm okay, just remembering."
Twelve years ago today, Kenny was taken from this life. Kenny was a very close high school friend and after graduation, we started dating. Call it first love syndrome or whatever but that was the end of it for both of us. We planned to be together forever. God had other plans in mind.
Even after all this time, I still remember August 1st, 2001 like it was yesterday. I can walk you through my every move that day until the point of finding out that Kenny was gone. The days/weeks after that are very blurry and I still find things out that I didn't know happened before. Either way, that was the first death that hit me hard and stays with me today.
I'm not writing to say about how hard it was or is. I could never explain to someone that's never been there how truly difficult it really is. The sick feeling you get the first morning after you hear the news just praying it's been a terrible nightmare. The hopeless feeling that sits in the pit of your stomach knowing there were so many other things to do. No words can be used to describe the feeling of losing someone that you deeply love. It's the worst pain that doesn't go away with any medicine or treatment.
What I'm writing to say is that I learned from it...from Kenny. Now, I've changed quite a bit in the past 12 years and I'm sure some of his messages to me have gotten a bit twisted but there are things that have stuck in my thick skull.
1. Don't take life too seriously. I remember a time in high school, only a few weeks left before graduation and Kenny was walking the halls. I'm not sure exactly what he was doing at the time but either way, he was caught. A young and pretty teacher was going to write him up and she was very angry with him. So what else would you do but propose to the cute teacher in the middle of the hallway? Yep, he did. And of course, in true Kenny fashion, it backfired and he got into more trouble. I know that really "crushed his spirit" in school but he didn't let it get him down. He was a goof and enjoyed making people laugh in any way they can. I'm sure "Meghan" looks back now, remembers that story and laughs.
2. Show love with energy. Kenny was a very caring guy. He was able to make friends with just about anyone and have as much energy as they had. One time, we were in the mall with my mom and sister. Mom, being the mini-mayor of Chambersburg, ran into someone she knew that had two young boys with him. They started talking and the boys were getting restless. Kenny just jumped right in and was pushing the boys around in their stroller, keeping them busy for as long as it took for the parents to chat with my mom. He never thought to treat them like he was older or more mature, he had no problem just adjusting to their level and catering to what they needed. Not to mention the favorite picture of him at a family birthday party. Chels on one knee and Gordon on the other. Their party hats are on their faces like duck bills. Who knows why? Just because he could.
3. "Garth Brooks was a wise man". This is what Kenny wrote to me in our last real letter. See, we didn't have fancy methods of communicating back in the day. We wrote notes. On paper. With pen or pencil. And then folded them up in the craziest ways that I still remember how to do. Then put them in someone's locker for them to get who knows how long after. And I wouldn't trade those notes for a million bucks. In Kenny's last letter, he wrote the lyrics to "The Dance" by Garth Brooks. Shocked me because Kenny wasn't really a country fan but the words still reign true to me today.
"I guess I didnt' know, the way it all would end, the way it all would go. Our lives, are better left to chance. I could have missed the pain, but I'da had to miss, the dance..."
That song still gives me chills and makes me remember that I'm still here for a reason. There is something else I'm here to do and although there will be pain when I go, I would have had to miss this wonderful life to miss the pain. Just like him. It was very painful to deal with him being taken and I didn't know how to deal with that. But I would have to give up all those wonderful moments to miss this pain. And I wouldn't give this memory of him away. He was a wonderful man and is missed all the time. Love you 56.
Twelve years ago today, Kenny was taken from this life. Kenny was a very close high school friend and after graduation, we started dating. Call it first love syndrome or whatever but that was the end of it for both of us. We planned to be together forever. God had other plans in mind.
Even after all this time, I still remember August 1st, 2001 like it was yesterday. I can walk you through my every move that day until the point of finding out that Kenny was gone. The days/weeks after that are very blurry and I still find things out that I didn't know happened before. Either way, that was the first death that hit me hard and stays with me today.
I'm not writing to say about how hard it was or is. I could never explain to someone that's never been there how truly difficult it really is. The sick feeling you get the first morning after you hear the news just praying it's been a terrible nightmare. The hopeless feeling that sits in the pit of your stomach knowing there were so many other things to do. No words can be used to describe the feeling of losing someone that you deeply love. It's the worst pain that doesn't go away with any medicine or treatment.
What I'm writing to say is that I learned from it...from Kenny. Now, I've changed quite a bit in the past 12 years and I'm sure some of his messages to me have gotten a bit twisted but there are things that have stuck in my thick skull.
1. Don't take life too seriously. I remember a time in high school, only a few weeks left before graduation and Kenny was walking the halls. I'm not sure exactly what he was doing at the time but either way, he was caught. A young and pretty teacher was going to write him up and she was very angry with him. So what else would you do but propose to the cute teacher in the middle of the hallway? Yep, he did. And of course, in true Kenny fashion, it backfired and he got into more trouble. I know that really "crushed his spirit" in school but he didn't let it get him down. He was a goof and enjoyed making people laugh in any way they can. I'm sure "Meghan" looks back now, remembers that story and laughs.
2. Show love with energy. Kenny was a very caring guy. He was able to make friends with just about anyone and have as much energy as they had. One time, we were in the mall with my mom and sister. Mom, being the mini-mayor of Chambersburg, ran into someone she knew that had two young boys with him. They started talking and the boys were getting restless. Kenny just jumped right in and was pushing the boys around in their stroller, keeping them busy for as long as it took for the parents to chat with my mom. He never thought to treat them like he was older or more mature, he had no problem just adjusting to their level and catering to what they needed. Not to mention the favorite picture of him at a family birthday party. Chels on one knee and Gordon on the other. Their party hats are on their faces like duck bills. Who knows why? Just because he could.
3. "Garth Brooks was a wise man". This is what Kenny wrote to me in our last real letter. See, we didn't have fancy methods of communicating back in the day. We wrote notes. On paper. With pen or pencil. And then folded them up in the craziest ways that I still remember how to do. Then put them in someone's locker for them to get who knows how long after. And I wouldn't trade those notes for a million bucks. In Kenny's last letter, he wrote the lyrics to "The Dance" by Garth Brooks. Shocked me because Kenny wasn't really a country fan but the words still reign true to me today.
"I guess I didnt' know, the way it all would end, the way it all would go. Our lives, are better left to chance. I could have missed the pain, but I'da had to miss, the dance..."
That song still gives me chills and makes me remember that I'm still here for a reason. There is something else I'm here to do and although there will be pain when I go, I would have had to miss this wonderful life to miss the pain. Just like him. It was very painful to deal with him being taken and I didn't know how to deal with that. But I would have to give up all those wonderful moments to miss this pain. And I wouldn't give this memory of him away. He was a wonderful man and is missed all the time. Love you 56.
Tuesday, July 30, 2013
Technologically inadequate...
Today I had to run some errands. I needed to pick up some face wash, parchment paper, and a few other things so Wal-Mart was the store for me. After picking up my items, I went to the check out area...the self check out.
Now, I'm a fairly technologically literate person. I have electronics and use them on a regular basis. I have an understanding of how computers work and how to use technology for what I need. I'm writing this via a blog on gmail and I understand how to use this media. Between an iPhone, iPad, Mac Book Pro, and all of the other electronic devices I have learned how to use them for what I need to do. I teach "technological advancements" for goodness sake!
However, technologically literate or illiterate I feel, I was stumped by this self check out. I scanned a bunch of things and it told me to put the items in the bag. I did. "Please place the item in the bag" I DID! "Item not placed in bag." I did that!!! "Please remove item from bag until scanned." ARE YOU KIDDING!?!?! After some frustration, the cashier came to help. Then, I realized an item I scanned was more expensive than what I wanted to pay so I had to remove that. Yeah...right! She came back over and helped. Sigh! Time to pay.
"Insert cash or select payment method." What?! Where do I put the money? There are 30 different slots on that thing! Finally figured it out.
As I was leaving, I thanked the cashier for helping but couldn't help but think of people that aren't used to technology. I mean, even most technology was new to me when growing up and the current generation can maneuver almost any device, but what about people that don't? It must feel very frustrating and embarrassing. I know how I felt and that was just a self checkout at Wal-Mart.
Are there classes or sessions that people could attend to be a bit more informed in technological advancements? Maybe then, creeps wouldn't want to take advantage of such nice, innocent people.
Just a thought...
Now, I'm a fairly technologically literate person. I have electronics and use them on a regular basis. I have an understanding of how computers work and how to use technology for what I need. I'm writing this via a blog on gmail and I understand how to use this media. Between an iPhone, iPad, Mac Book Pro, and all of the other electronic devices I have learned how to use them for what I need to do. I teach "technological advancements" for goodness sake!
However, technologically literate or illiterate I feel, I was stumped by this self check out. I scanned a bunch of things and it told me to put the items in the bag. I did. "Please place the item in the bag" I DID! "Item not placed in bag." I did that!!! "Please remove item from bag until scanned." ARE YOU KIDDING!?!?! After some frustration, the cashier came to help. Then, I realized an item I scanned was more expensive than what I wanted to pay so I had to remove that. Yeah...right! She came back over and helped. Sigh! Time to pay.
"Insert cash or select payment method." What?! Where do I put the money? There are 30 different slots on that thing! Finally figured it out.
As I was leaving, I thanked the cashier for helping but couldn't help but think of people that aren't used to technology. I mean, even most technology was new to me when growing up and the current generation can maneuver almost any device, but what about people that don't? It must feel very frustrating and embarrassing. I know how I felt and that was just a self checkout at Wal-Mart.
Are there classes or sessions that people could attend to be a bit more informed in technological advancements? Maybe then, creeps wouldn't want to take advantage of such nice, innocent people.
Just a thought...
Monday, July 29, 2013
Dirty 30
Second, although I called you all names, thank you to those that came to my surprise party last night. You fooled me big time! I had no clue what-so-ever and that's shocking in and of itself. I usually have no problem figuring things out. And I can really say, you shocked me. Thank you all so much for taking time to share with me on my special birthday.
Now for a few more personal thank you's...
Noah- Thank you more than you could ever know for treating me to such a wonderful party. I am not sure how you pulled it off but you did a wonderful job and I was totally surprised. I love you so much and look forward to every day I have to grow old with you.
Mom and Dad- You little sneaky ones! You knew about this the whole time and never even made a slip?! I love you guys so much for all you do for me and continue to do even now that you don't have to. Thank you so much for everything. You were such a huge help to Noah during this process and we are both so thankful for you both! Love you!
Shey and Jimmy- You are also little sneaky ones! Thank you for making the drive for such a short period of time. I love you guys and am so glad I got to see you. Thank you for all you did and thank you for my amazing gift. It was awesome!
Pop and Nev- Thank you for hosting. I know you were busy this weekend and could have easily not had people at your home, but I'm so glad you did. It was so much fun to see everyone and hang out. Thank you again for doing so much. Love you both!
Cyndi, Jan, Richard, Kimi, David, Jeanne, Josh, and the Georgia clan- Thank you all so much for giving me 2 days to party and have great potato salad. ;-) It was so nice to be able to share my birthday with people that I never get to see. And meeting Lacy and Landon was super cool too. Britty- watch out for that little lady. She knows EXACTLY what she wants. Thank ya'll so much. I love you guys!
Aunt Debbie, Uncle Linc, Uncle Barry, Scotty- It's a hike for you guys to travel up here for a few hours and then head home again. I'm so glad to see you whenever I can and when it's down here, it's even more amazing. You are like an extra piece of home and it's nice to have that in Chester County. Thank you again for making the trip. It was so nice to see you.
Stacey, Elise, Greyson, Jess and Rob- It's rare to find such friends in a work place, especially teaching. We are always going and rarely have time to really get to know anyone else, except for students and their parents. However, I have been really lucky. To find great friends at East in the Counseling department, just to be moved to STEM and find great friends there too... It's awesome. Thank you all so much for coming and hanging out for my birthday. It was so great to see you outside of the Downingtown walls. (and good one Stace- "I hope your boys take good care of you today"- They did!)
Sarah, Keith, and Ethan- I cannot believe you came all the way out...well actually I can but still. Thank you so much for doing that. I love you three so much and I'm so glad that we still see each other- even if it takes us a while to do it. Thank you for coming. I miss you guys so much!
Heather, Little, Evie, Amy, Cory, Grif- You guys are my little college family that remind me of days when I could actually hang...now not so much. But that hasn't stopped you from hanging out. Thank you all for coming. Heather, you can keep a secret girl. Damn! Little- you just kept pushing drinks and I love you for it. Evie- you will always be my link to the "fun" pre baby days...and my personal trainer. Amy- I was shocked to see you and so thankful you came. I miss you girlie! Cory- it was so nice to meet you more formally, even if I don't remember much of it...hehe. Grif- you are one of the sweetest dudes I know and I'm so glad you are part of our family. Thank you for all you do!
Brad, Johanna, and Tyler- You guys have become very dear to our hearts and I am so glad that we live right across the street from such wonderful people. Thank you for so many things but most importantly thank you for your friendship. I'm so glad we started yelling across that street. Even if it tooks us 4 years to do it! Love you guys!
If I missed anyone- I am truly sorry. I had such a great time with you all yesterday and I'm sad to see my birthday go but I'm very excited about the next chapter. Thank you all for being a part of it!
Up today: THE SUMMER OF GEORGE!
Saturday, July 27, 2013
Make a plan day...or? (t-hours)
However, my dilemma... today I am supposed to come up with goals for the next chapter of my life. This doesn't sound difficult...it is. But that's still not my dilemma. My situation is this.
I wonder if I should even plan...
See, I'm a planner. I constantly have to have a project. I have to have something to occupy my brain even when my brain should be resting. I enjoy having a busy day with a to-do list. I love post-its. I have multiple apps that help me organize my day. I have a paper book planner to keep my stuff hard copy, just in case my phone doesn't get the job done. Sure, I enjoy a day off here and there but generally, I like to have a plan and something to keep my busy and moving.
Although I like to plan, should I really lock myself into what I want to do in the next chapter of my life or should I just live it? By lock myself in, I mean, why plan something that could change because that's what life does...it just happens. So do I bother planning or just live it?
Up tomorrow: BIG BIRTHDAY! :-)
Friday, July 26, 2013
Dutch Wonderland Day (t-2)
Today was originally set to be "learn a new language" day. Honestly, I'm all up for doing this, however, I haven't found a program that has worked yet. I've heard that Rosetta Stone is fabulous...well for 500 buckaroos... it better be. So today was changed.
Instead we went to Dutch Wonderland. I cannot believe we've never been there before. I mean, Noah's been there- when he was a kid. I had never been there- not even as a child. How much fun is that place?
Ayden had a blast and we were able to let him ride some things on his own. (tiny tear for my baby boy who isn't so much of a baby anymore) Other things, we rode together as a family or just one of us and Ayden.
On top of that, everyone in the park was so nice. All the workers were very helpful and very kind. Not to mention that everyone in the park has kids, so they can commiserate when your son hasn't had a nap and wants to be on the ride RIGHT NOW! Either way, so much fun and I highly recommend it. Check out our pics!
Up tomorrow: Set goals for the next 30 :-)
Instead we went to Dutch Wonderland. I cannot believe we've never been there before. I mean, Noah's been there- when he was a kid. I had never been there- not even as a child. How much fun is that place?
Ayden had a blast and we were able to let him ride some things on his own. (tiny tear for my baby boy who isn't so much of a baby anymore) Other things, we rode together as a family or just one of us and Ayden.
On top of that, everyone in the park was so nice. All the workers were very helpful and very kind. Not to mention that everyone in the park has kids, so they can commiserate when your son hasn't had a nap and wants to be on the ride RIGHT NOW! Either way, so much fun and I highly recommend it. Check out our pics!
Up tomorrow: Set goals for the next 30 :-)
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| Yay for Dutch Wonderland Day! |
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| Monster Trucks!!! |
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| These crazy people jump from the top of that thing! |
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| Love this pic! |
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| Even Ayden thinks these guys are nuts! |
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| There's a frog jumping! |
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| Bulldozers! |
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| WEEEEEEE! |
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| "Guys, I don't think you know how tired I am" |
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| Hi Ty! |
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| Hi Daddy! |
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| And on the carousel again... |
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| Turtle Whirl...AH VOM! |
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| Choo Choo! |
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| What do you mean I can't jump off? |
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| Not even 5 minutes into the ride home... |
HERSHEY SPA DAY!!!
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| View from parking at dinner- people riding the Great Bear |
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| Awesome sunset at dinner |
The Hershey Spa is AMAZING. First Heather and I got to the spa and checked in. They give you a locker, robe, and sandals to use. After that, there is a tour around the three quiet rooms. The first one is down by the locker room and is scented in "island breeze". Then there is a silent room- you aren't allowed to talk at all in that room so Heather and I avoided it entirely. The "quiet room" was the best. It looks like an old study or library and has all kinds of drinks and food. The best part- the balcony. Granted, we probably liked it best because of the gorgeous weather.
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| Not even half of the 1 locker room |
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| Staircase to the other quiet rooms and spa facilities |
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| view from staircase- over the manor |
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| still in the staircase |
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| From the balcony- my stupid iphone camera does not do this justice |
We waited for a while just catching up and then I was called back for my "hydrotherapy". I really didn't know what to expect with this because even the description on the website was vague. So it turns out, it's a giant bathtub. And when I say giant...I mean...GIANT. The tub is in the middle of the room and is filled to the brim with water and chocolate scented bubbles. Then they turn on the jets and you sit there for 20 minutes. While you're there, there is water at your disposal, as many chocolate kisses as you could eat, and a cold wash cloth soaked in chocolate essential oils. Oh yeah... When you get out, your skin is super soft.
Then Heather went and I chilled on the balcony, eating more chocolate muffins and drinking Hershey's hot chocolate.
Then it's time for lunch. There is a restaurant in the spa called "The Oasis". It's entirely buffet and you can eat as much as you want. They obviously try to make it lighter food because you wants to go for a massage after eating their weight in all the food downstairs. But I did. I ate tons of food and desserts. To be honest, we had some wait time before our massages so I was able to eat and then feel comfortable before my massage. Great food and we were able to again be outside on the patio. Awesome weather!
Then it's time for your massage. Let's just say, that money was WELL spent. I LOVE getting massages and wish I could do it more frequently but not having one in over 2 years made this one even better than I remember.
Then it's off to your facial. I had never had a facial like this before. I was in there for almost an hour with her putting lotions and potions all over my face and arms. I have to say, although I'm a massage girl, I didn't mind the facial AT ALL! :-) Plus the girl giving me the facial has the same birthday as me, so that was cool.
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| Only a portion of the hotel- just a PORTION! |
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| View from the parking lot over Hershey Park |
After that, the day is technically done but not for me and Heather! We went back to the locker room and wanted to get ready for dinner. Took nice long showers and went out to Houlihan's in Hershey for some Ahi Tuna Wontons and their signature Chocolate Martini. Yep. This was an AWESOME FREAKING DAY!
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| Just the dessert at Houlihan's- Serious Brownie Sundae- they weren't kidding! |
Up today: Dutch Wonderland with Ayden and Noah! YAY!
Wednesday, July 24, 2013
Make a dress day (t-4)
I have never been a seamstress. I am not GREAT at making things. Oh, I have great ideas and details but I have a difficult time putting them all today.
So today was not going to be an easy task.
I wanted to create a dress. Of course, I had ideas of what I wanted to create but I also have no patterns or guidelines to go off of. This also gave me a hard time when it came to design ideas. Too many ideas. :-)
So I decided to make my own pattern and go from there. Check out my results... Not couture but comfortable.
Up tomorrow: HERSHEY SPA DAY WITH HEATHER!!! YAY!!!!
So today was not going to be an easy task.
I wanted to create a dress. Of course, I had ideas of what I wanted to create but I also have no patterns or guidelines to go off of. This also gave me a hard time when it came to design ideas. Too many ideas. :-)
So I decided to make my own pattern and go from there. Check out my results... Not couture but comfortable.
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| Stretchy fabric is the hardest to work with... |
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| I realize I need a black belt now... :-) |
Tuesday, July 23, 2013
Find your roots Day (t-5)
I think it's common for people to reflect on their lives, especially when doing something like I'm doing or coming up on a momentous occasion. I've always wondered where we came from...my family that is. I know the Heckman side because we have a book that goes all the way back to Germany in the 1500's. That is hugely helpful but I wanted to know about my mom's side as well.
So this morning, I logged on to Ancestry.com to try a 2-week trial. I figured it was all a ploy to get you to stay for 2 weeks and then they would charge you and finally get you some information about your ancestry. Man was I wrong!
They aren't kidding in the commercials. As soon as I put in my name, one of those little leaf thingys came up and gave me information about my parents and everything. Public record of my birth and all. Now that wasn't exactly what I was looking for. I want the stuff from WAY back.
So I put in my parents and grandparents. Luckily they are all still living and I was able to get birthdates as well as their parents names. That really got things going. And before I knew it, I had spent literally all day on the website just adding information.
I was able to get records all the way back to the late 1600's from Germany on my great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great-great grandparents...yep that 10 greats. I don't even know if that's how one would write that but hey, it's there. And I can keep that going.
All of those little leafy things are possible connections and records to give me more information (mostly census, immigration, and registration) on my ancestors. Such a cool site!
However, I do want to cancel this once I have all the names/dates. Does anyone know of a neat and orderly way to record this information to make family trees eventually? I have no idea where to begin- don't think there is a book big enough. HELP!
Up tomorrow: Make a dress...no pattern or template...oh my!
So this morning, I logged on to Ancestry.com to try a 2-week trial. I figured it was all a ploy to get you to stay for 2 weeks and then they would charge you and finally get you some information about your ancestry. Man was I wrong!
They aren't kidding in the commercials. As soon as I put in my name, one of those little leaf thingys came up and gave me information about my parents and everything. Public record of my birth and all. Now that wasn't exactly what I was looking for. I want the stuff from WAY back.
So I put in my parents and grandparents. Luckily they are all still living and I was able to get birthdates as well as their parents names. That really got things going. And before I knew it, I had spent literally all day on the website just adding information.
All of those little leafy things are possible connections and records to give me more information (mostly census, immigration, and registration) on my ancestors. Such a cool site!
However, I do want to cancel this once I have all the names/dates. Does anyone know of a neat and orderly way to record this information to make family trees eventually? I have no idea where to begin- don't think there is a book big enough. HELP!
Up tomorrow: Make a dress...no pattern or template...oh my!
Monday, July 22, 2013
Get a strike! (t-6)
I have been bowling before and yes, I'm very competitive. I am that person that will get irate over the ball not going the way I want it to go. Even though, I don't bowl on even an amateur level. So why get so mad? I can only answer as I am Monica Gellar...
From Friends? Yes. I am her! Crazy OCD, competitive, loud Monica. I admit it!
Either way, one thing I've never been able to do is get a strike in actual bowling. I'm not counting the Wii. So today was the day.
We went to Hagerstown... a place called Seven Ten. It's a "classy" place as my sister said. She wasn't kidding. Compared to good ole Nellie Fox, this place was the Bentley of bowling alleys. Very nice.
I pick out my ball and my shoes and off I go. After setting everyone up in alphabetical order, I was ready. Game face on!
I put my fingers in those awful tiny holes in the ball and focus on my throw. Dad gave me a strategy before leaving so that was the plan. I set it all up. Move my feet. And throw the ball.
Down the lane is goes, for what seems like an eternity and BAM! FIRST THROW! Nope! NINE FREAKING PINS! ARE YOU KIDDING!?
Ok, I have a new tattoo reminding me to let it go so I took in it stride and proceeded to play the game with Shey, Mom, Noah and Scott. And my turn again...nope.
Let's just say, we got through almost two games and it hadn't happened. Everyone else had gotten at least one strike...but me. EVERYONE!
My last shot. It's make it or break it because Ayden's tired and frankly, I didn't want to buy more games. I have to get this.
I wind back... line up... and off it goes. *whispering a little prayer* and...
BAM! I GOT IT!!!!!
Up tomorrow: Find your roots...ancestry day.
From Friends? Yes. I am her! Crazy OCD, competitive, loud Monica. I admit it!
Either way, one thing I've never been able to do is get a strike in actual bowling. I'm not counting the Wii. So today was the day.
We went to Hagerstown... a place called Seven Ten. It's a "classy" place as my sister said. She wasn't kidding. Compared to good ole Nellie Fox, this place was the Bentley of bowling alleys. Very nice.
I pick out my ball and my shoes and off I go. After setting everyone up in alphabetical order, I was ready. Game face on!
I put my fingers in those awful tiny holes in the ball and focus on my throw. Dad gave me a strategy before leaving so that was the plan. I set it all up. Move my feet. And throw the ball.
Down the lane is goes, for what seems like an eternity and BAM! FIRST THROW! Nope! NINE FREAKING PINS! ARE YOU KIDDING!?
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| First try... |
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| Shey's up. |
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| Yay Momma! |
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| And the pro-bowler... |
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| With a VERY close trail... |
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| Ayden was coaching everyone. |
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| And a cute coach he is! |
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| C'mon Shey Shey! |
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| It's okay Scotty! Daddy's just really good at bowling. |
Let's just say, we got through almost two games and it hadn't happened. Everyone else had gotten at least one strike...but me. EVERYONE!
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| Yep...first strike of the game. |
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| My lucky charm |
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| ooooooooooooo! |
I wind back... line up... and off it goes. *whispering a little prayer* and...
BAM! I GOT IT!!!!!
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| YAY BABY! |
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| STRIKE! |
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| Didn't break 100 but who cares!? I GOT A STRIKE! |
Up tomorrow: Find your roots...ancestry day.
We survived... (t-6)
You would not believe how easy it is to plant seeds in my head. Thanks mom and dad...
We didn't get mauled by a bear. Or chewed up by a coyote. Or sprayed by a skunk (that was close though). Camping actually turned out pretty great.
Noah was amazing. He set up the tent and got the fire started with my dad. We had everything in the tent before Ayden and I even made it outside. Sitting around the fire for a little, I knew we would need a pacifier for the little guy so I headed in. On my return, I smelled skunk...very close skunk.
So Ayden and I got in the tent with Mac, followed by Noah after he adjusted the fire. Needless to say, the fire was a great deterrent- both for skunks and for Ayden to sleep. He kept crawling on Noah and Mac- even threw Mac's ball in the 2-person tent. Yeah that was fun!
After a little while, Ayden realized that we were all sleeping or dozing off so he laid down and out he went. Noah and I slept fairly well but we had to keep checking on Mac. When he heard a sound or caught a whiff of something that he wasn't sure of, he would jump up. We didn't want him to wake Ayden up and we wanted to check on things. He's such a good little watch dog.
I think I got the best sleep after sunrise- after the roosters calmed down. :-) And yes, I would totally go camping with these boys again. Love them.
Up later today: Get a strike! I will get a strike in bowling if it's the last thing I do!
We didn't get mauled by a bear. Or chewed up by a coyote. Or sprayed by a skunk (that was close though). Camping actually turned out pretty great.
Noah was amazing. He set up the tent and got the fire started with my dad. We had everything in the tent before Ayden and I even made it outside. Sitting around the fire for a little, I knew we would need a pacifier for the little guy so I headed in. On my return, I smelled skunk...very close skunk.
So Ayden and I got in the tent with Mac, followed by Noah after he adjusted the fire. Needless to say, the fire was a great deterrent- both for skunks and for Ayden to sleep. He kept crawling on Noah and Mac- even threw Mac's ball in the 2-person tent. Yeah that was fun!
After a little while, Ayden realized that we were all sleeping or dozing off so he laid down and out he went. Noah and I slept fairly well but we had to keep checking on Mac. When he heard a sound or caught a whiff of something that he wasn't sure of, he would jump up. We didn't want him to wake Ayden up and we wanted to check on things. He's such a good little watch dog.
I think I got the best sleep after sunrise- after the roosters calmed down. :-) And yes, I would totally go camping with these boys again. Love them.
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| Helping daddy |
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| Yep, put my pillow right there! |
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| Both foremen... :-) |
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| Just checking on things |
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| With pappy, maintaining the fire |
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| Dad's anti-gravity chair |
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| so fidgety |
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| see... |
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| and yet again |
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| George was in the picture but no Mac Dawg |
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| Now with Mac...LOVE Ayden's face in this one! |
Up later today: Get a strike! I will get a strike in bowling if it's the last thing I do!
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