Every year, I try to spend some time on figuring out resolutions. So far, this year I haven't spent but a few moments before passing out in bed in the early morning hours thinking of what I want this coming year. I am a night owl and time off at the holidays was perfect for my indulgences in getting some family business organized (doesn't budgeting and your annual financial analysis just really do it for you, too?!?!?!?) and massive channel surfing so 10 minutes of pre-sleep list-making doesn't make for very strong resolutions.
The usual suspects make this year's list, as they have every year:
- Get healthy, lose weight (to get healthy)
- Spend more time with friends and family
- Get our home organized, re-do Julian's room
- Figure out how to win the lottery, or at least how to do better at spending and making money
- Not just think of myself first (although I don't really know how to do that) but to actually do something that will be good for my mind, body and spirit.
I'd love to get whiter teeth, download nine years of mini DV's onto DVD's and figure out how to move my iTunes library to my laptop (if anyone knows how to do either, please please PLEASE HELP), make a family 2008 photo album, and read all 25 books that I've started and are all on the floor by my bed. I also don't want to buy anything that we don't need, use or love and would like Myron to follow that philosophy, too. If we accumulate much more stuff in our house or in our garage I may go postal!
More sex, less yelling at the kids; more time playing, less trying to figure out what's for lunch/dinner; more sun, less rain (oh right, that one's out of my control).
I'd like to know how to make one or two favorite drinks and meals perfectly, understand how to read my investment account statements (are those dashes in front of the number normal???), and stop feeling guilty about the damage I'm doing to my kids by letting them watch so much TV.
I can go on and on, but the little dreams I have that fill my heart with longing is a utopia that will likely remain a dream:
Living in a community development with my close friends as neighbors in a beautiful area overlooking the Sound with good schools nearby. Custom built buildings including communal kid playroom/adult playroom, hobby room, sports courts and pool and outdor kitchen with fun/sparkling lights strung across the courtyard. Earning a living by doing something creative that everyone in the world can't live without. Holiday craft parties and cookie baking sessions, summer plays and concerts - performed by all who live there - and lots of pool parties, friendly contests and competitions, watching each other's kids on date nights out and late night brainstorming sessions on how to be of service to the world (and actually following through on the ideas). In this world, no such thing as limited money, resources or time. No conflicts, only days filled with joy and laughter. There would always be enough room for new friends to join and nothing but love, love, love!
Yep, that's my utopia.
And I've masterfully managed to make it one more day without having to figure out my plan for not eating my MIL's delicious homemade peanut brittle in the pantry (once that's gone there's still holiday cookies and chocolate that beckons) while sizing up international dance champions, catching up on BET's top 25 breakups of all time, getting the gist of the new "beauty is more than skin deep" reality show by watching only 6.5 non-consecutive minutes including the elimination, weighing in on what house to buy on HGTV show, entering the HGTV's Dream Home contest, watching the news (what is the Governor up to, anyway?) and blogging. Yep - it took me 1.5 hours to write this!
Tomorrow ... that's when I'll make that health/fitness/diet plan. For sure!
Monday, January 5, 2009
Thursday, November 27, 2008
A Moment of Reflection on Being Thankful
I love having a holiday to reflect on all the things I've been thankful for all year. Here's what I gave thanks to since last Thanksgiving:
FAMILY
We spent more time with family this year, just like we wanted. Winter wonderland in Chelan - sledding, visiting, roasting hot dogs in the fire pit in the snow, making igloos, hanging with cousins, brothers, sisters and parents. We added new family members (Ali's first Christmas this year!). Camping, giant pumpkin weigh offs and our traditional Chrsitmas Eve made this year so fun. We lost family too last year and will remember Curtis and Greg fondly each holiday season. My nuclear family is so special and I am so thankful for Myron, McKenna and Julian. They are healthy and happy and smart and talented and I love them so very much.
FRIENDS
We also made a point to spend more time with friends and those times were the highlight of our year. Even the most casual get togethers, GNO's, coffee dates, special occasions fed my soul. At the top of my New Year's resolutions list is to get with friends even more in 2009! I am so grateful for all our friends and cherish you all.
PETS
Merlin is almost 11! While his hips are pretty arthritic and painful, he is such a trooper and is otherwise healthy. How wonderful that he is here for yet one more Holiday season. One more season of wearing funny antler head gear while we trim the tree. One more season of a big fat rawhide bone from santa in his very own stocking.
WORK
I could not have asked for a better work environment this year. The RealTime team is such a fabulous team and group of people and even the customers were pretty good. The work is challenging and we had the best year ever. I worked hard but feel like I've contributed and that's what makes my work feel worthwhile.
VOLUNTEER WORK
As much as I complained this year about how overwhelmed and overextended I've been, I am grateful for all the learning and connections I made this last year. I now know where my limits are and that passion cannot be substituted. I know that I must feel connected to the cause I'm representing in order to make a difference and at least feel like I make a difference.
OPPORTUNITY
We finally reached one goal of ours - to expand our investment portfolio by buying an investment rental property. An opportunity to learn more about investing in this area and trying to secure an adequate retirement or college funding. I am grateful that we have the opportunity to do this, that for all the doom and gloom going on that we still can try to reach for that American Dream and see where it takes us. We are grateful for all our opportunities!
VACATIONS
If you know me, you know I LOVE vacations. As we've been blessed to have taken some wonderful trips this last year: Disneyland, Cannon Beach, Mt Rainier, Silverwood. We had so much fun this year and being able to spend my free time with my family is what I look forward in my life most.
THE OBVIOUS
Health, we have enough of the things we need, we give and receive tons of love ... we are truly blessed and I am so thankful for all that I have.
I hope you are as blessed as I am and I wish everyone to have a peaceful, joyful and sparkly Holiday Season.
FAMILY
We spent more time with family this year, just like we wanted. Winter wonderland in Chelan - sledding, visiting, roasting hot dogs in the fire pit in the snow, making igloos, hanging with cousins, brothers, sisters and parents. We added new family members (Ali's first Christmas this year!). Camping, giant pumpkin weigh offs and our traditional Chrsitmas Eve made this year so fun. We lost family too last year and will remember Curtis and Greg fondly each holiday season. My nuclear family is so special and I am so thankful for Myron, McKenna and Julian. They are healthy and happy and smart and talented and I love them so very much.
FRIENDS
We also made a point to spend more time with friends and those times were the highlight of our year. Even the most casual get togethers, GNO's, coffee dates, special occasions fed my soul. At the top of my New Year's resolutions list is to get with friends even more in 2009! I am so grateful for all our friends and cherish you all.
PETS
Merlin is almost 11! While his hips are pretty arthritic and painful, he is such a trooper and is otherwise healthy. How wonderful that he is here for yet one more Holiday season. One more season of wearing funny antler head gear while we trim the tree. One more season of a big fat rawhide bone from santa in his very own stocking.
WORK
I could not have asked for a better work environment this year. The RealTime team is such a fabulous team and group of people and even the customers were pretty good. The work is challenging and we had the best year ever. I worked hard but feel like I've contributed and that's what makes my work feel worthwhile.
VOLUNTEER WORK
As much as I complained this year about how overwhelmed and overextended I've been, I am grateful for all the learning and connections I made this last year. I now know where my limits are and that passion cannot be substituted. I know that I must feel connected to the cause I'm representing in order to make a difference and at least feel like I make a difference.
OPPORTUNITY
We finally reached one goal of ours - to expand our investment portfolio by buying an investment rental property. An opportunity to learn more about investing in this area and trying to secure an adequate retirement or college funding. I am grateful that we have the opportunity to do this, that for all the doom and gloom going on that we still can try to reach for that American Dream and see where it takes us. We are grateful for all our opportunities!
VACATIONS
If you know me, you know I LOVE vacations. As we've been blessed to have taken some wonderful trips this last year: Disneyland, Cannon Beach, Mt Rainier, Silverwood. We had so much fun this year and being able to spend my free time with my family is what I look forward in my life most.
THE OBVIOUS
Health, we have enough of the things we need, we give and receive tons of love ... we are truly blessed and I am so thankful for all that I have.
I hope you are as blessed as I am and I wish everyone to have a peaceful, joyful and sparkly Holiday Season.
Friday, November 7, 2008
They Look Like Us
Along with many of you, we watch and high fived and kissed and hooted with joy on the historic night of Nov 4th 2008. Obama standing at the podium, giving his speech, is one of those moments that you wll look back on and know what you were doing and who you were with.
My kids were allowed to stay up late and watch, but the whole thing was just too much for Juice. He peacefully drifted off to Obama's words between Myron and I on the couch. Mac however, was glued to the TV, and was asking all the right questions and serving up her own opinions on McCain and especially Palin. Grown up opinions I might add. Sounds like she's been listening to a bit of Air America in dad's car?!?
But all of us were accutely aware of the significance of the moment and for my kids especially, to never know that there are barriers to doing whatever they want because of the color of their skin is incredible for me to witness and know. When Myron and I married our parents were each skeptical that it would bring us happiness or that our children would be treated properly in this world. Myron and I also worried some that they might have to face difficulties because of their ethnicity. But this brings us hope and the belief that in this new day, as small of an issue as it is, that having someone who looks like them in the highest position in the land, and possibly the world, will break down even more barriers and prejudices and allow them to thrive and make their way, like everyone else.
McKenna remarked: "Those girls are so lucky - they get to live in the white house!" and to her, knowing nothing else, it seems like the most natural thing. But Myron and I, with tears in our eyes, didn't realize that the image of the First Family being white and older was so etched in our patriotic consciousness that it's almost hard to comprehend the new look of our leadership.
The hard work now starts. We also realize how much we are going to be asked to sacrifice and that we must help put this country back together. If we believed in Obama's ideals so fervently, then it's time to walk the walk. Hope to see you all along that road!
My kids were allowed to stay up late and watch, but the whole thing was just too much for Juice. He peacefully drifted off to Obama's words between Myron and I on the couch. Mac however, was glued to the TV, and was asking all the right questions and serving up her own opinions on McCain and especially Palin. Grown up opinions I might add. Sounds like she's been listening to a bit of Air America in dad's car?!?
But all of us were accutely aware of the significance of the moment and for my kids especially, to never know that there are barriers to doing whatever they want because of the color of their skin is incredible for me to witness and know. When Myron and I married our parents were each skeptical that it would bring us happiness or that our children would be treated properly in this world. Myron and I also worried some that they might have to face difficulties because of their ethnicity. But this brings us hope and the belief that in this new day, as small of an issue as it is, that having someone who looks like them in the highest position in the land, and possibly the world, will break down even more barriers and prejudices and allow them to thrive and make their way, like everyone else.
McKenna remarked: "Those girls are so lucky - they get to live in the white house!" and to her, knowing nothing else, it seems like the most natural thing. But Myron and I, with tears in our eyes, didn't realize that the image of the First Family being white and older was so etched in our patriotic consciousness that it's almost hard to comprehend the new look of our leadership.
The hard work now starts. We also realize how much we are going to be asked to sacrifice and that we must help put this country back together. If we believed in Obama's ideals so fervently, then it's time to walk the walk. Hope to see you all along that road!
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Please - Let This End (My Way)
I'm usually patient about politics. There's really no need to worry - I know I can't know results before election day, so I vote and wait patiently for results on the 6pm news every election day. This year, it's excrutiating! I feel like I'm the one running, Begging for this this end, but to end my way. I really feel anxious for the results and I just WANT TO KNOW! TODAY!
I really want Barrack Obama to win this thing. I hated that W was allowed into the WH a second term (actually also the 1st term to tell the truth) and wondered many times how ridiculously idiotic my fellow voters could be. But overall, I was resolved. Disappointed, but I moved on. This time, it's more. It feels like a life and death decision and people choosing the Republican ticket are choosing the death of America and what I stand for. This time I feel personally attacked when right wing politicians tell me that because I am liberal I am anti-American, a terrorist lover, and that my views are evil.
I know I cannot change anyone's view and yes - it is frustrating - but at the very least I don't go around bashing people who don't see things the same as I do. I don't think they should be eradicated from the earth and sent to hell. I don't bash their religious beliefs, spew bigotry or racial hatred, and I would NEVER NEVER hate anyone who had different ideas. I may not agree with those ideas, but to hate someone because they did? Just plain crazy.
And that's where things are headed - full on towards crazy. Americans hating Americans because we have different ideas on what's best for our country. Having to define ourselves by man-made political parties and being stereotyped because of a leaning affiliation. It's hard to see where this all starts and where it can end. We are giving up our power to make things right by subscribing to doctrine instead of listening and learning and following common sense.
Anyway, I really just want to see the end of the day November 4th and at the end of that day I want a win for Obama, whatever you think he stands for. I have my own reasons and hopes and ideas on what that would mean for my country and for my community and for my family. And I actually pray when I see polls and new stories about where the candidates stand that people will come to their senses and vote for Hope.
I really want Barrack Obama to win this thing. I hated that W was allowed into the WH a second term (actually also the 1st term to tell the truth) and wondered many times how ridiculously idiotic my fellow voters could be. But overall, I was resolved. Disappointed, but I moved on. This time, it's more. It feels like a life and death decision and people choosing the Republican ticket are choosing the death of America and what I stand for. This time I feel personally attacked when right wing politicians tell me that because I am liberal I am anti-American, a terrorist lover, and that my views are evil.
I know I cannot change anyone's view and yes - it is frustrating - but at the very least I don't go around bashing people who don't see things the same as I do. I don't think they should be eradicated from the earth and sent to hell. I don't bash their religious beliefs, spew bigotry or racial hatred, and I would NEVER NEVER hate anyone who had different ideas. I may not agree with those ideas, but to hate someone because they did? Just plain crazy.
And that's where things are headed - full on towards crazy. Americans hating Americans because we have different ideas on what's best for our country. Having to define ourselves by man-made political parties and being stereotyped because of a leaning affiliation. It's hard to see where this all starts and where it can end. We are giving up our power to make things right by subscribing to doctrine instead of listening and learning and following common sense.
Anyway, I really just want to see the end of the day November 4th and at the end of that day I want a win for Obama, whatever you think he stands for. I have my own reasons and hopes and ideas on what that would mean for my country and for my community and for my family. And I actually pray when I see polls and new stories about where the candidates stand that people will come to their senses and vote for Hope.
Friday, October 17, 2008
Crazy Week
Furnace pump went out - $300
Dishwasher motor died - $300
New rental house inspection results - $18000 in repairs and we don't even own the house yet
So frazzled that going to the bathroom today I searched for the button to my pants, wondering if I'd put them on backwards, only to realize I was pulling my pants out far enough and that they were ELASTIC waistband.
Will I make it to the other side of November?!?
Dishwasher motor died - $300
New rental house inspection results - $18000 in repairs and we don't even own the house yet
So frazzled that going to the bathroom today I searched for the button to my pants, wondering if I'd put them on backwards, only to realize I was pulling my pants out far enough and that they were ELASTIC waistband.
Will I make it to the other side of November?!?
Sunday, October 12, 2008
Living in the Twilight Zone
OK - officially, today's been kooky. Couldn't quite get stuff done on time so kids raised themselves today (mostly watching TV), ended up eating dinner with the family at 8:30 pm tonight, dishwasher decided to not wash, the furnace is going nuts even though we turned it off, the new curtain rods for the office really don't work, Myron and I are still working on house stuff and it's almost midnight, I'm posting cause I had to get on email and answer people back who wrote me earlier in the week and it's all starting over tomorrow.
I'm already wishing it was a weekend!!!
I'm already wishing it was a weekend!!!
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Can I Take It Back?
Last winter it sounded like the best idea in the world. Today, I couldn't think of anything worse! But it's out there, and I don't think I can take it back without a fight I frankly don't have the energy for.
Last spring, I found out that I would be traveling to LA for a business trip end of this month (Oct). I thought "How perfect! I can fly the family down after my meeting and we can go to Disneyland!!" Like I said, it sounded great then.
Now it's time to make the final arrangements, pay the dough, pack and go and really - it sounds like torture. I'm the one who makes all the travel arrangements and who plans all of our trips. I'm over it. I also know that we just bought a duplex and made an offer on a 4-plex. What's another $3000 for Disney compared to half a mil in real estate?!? Let me tell you - we could use that dough to bail ourselves out cause I happen to know the government is a little strapped right now.
So Myron actually came up with a brilliant plan - I could still take the time off, we could do Halloween stuff and trick-or-treating here and then head south to the Great Wolf Lodge and spend two whole days in the water park there. Cost would be 1/10 of Disney, our kids love the water and it could be something totally new. Well, they didn't go for it. I'd been hyping this trip up all year and now they are hangin' on tight to the Dream.
"Wasn't Silverwood, the Puyallup Fair, Remlinger Farms and all the other times we went on rides this year enough???"
"Nope - Disney is the funnest."
"But we could do trick or treating here and get lots of candy - your favorite!"
"Well, we have leftover candy anyway and you always buy more."
"Disney is expensive - we could save money and have fun in the water."
"You can work more to get more money."
I stopped there cause I was about to have a breakdown.
So I think we're off the Disney at the end of the month. Just wish I could take it back!
Last spring, I found out that I would be traveling to LA for a business trip end of this month (Oct). I thought "How perfect! I can fly the family down after my meeting and we can go to Disneyland!!" Like I said, it sounded great then.
Now it's time to make the final arrangements, pay the dough, pack and go and really - it sounds like torture. I'm the one who makes all the travel arrangements and who plans all of our trips. I'm over it. I also know that we just bought a duplex and made an offer on a 4-plex. What's another $3000 for Disney compared to half a mil in real estate?!? Let me tell you - we could use that dough to bail ourselves out cause I happen to know the government is a little strapped right now.
So Myron actually came up with a brilliant plan - I could still take the time off, we could do Halloween stuff and trick-or-treating here and then head south to the Great Wolf Lodge and spend two whole days in the water park there. Cost would be 1/10 of Disney, our kids love the water and it could be something totally new. Well, they didn't go for it. I'd been hyping this trip up all year and now they are hangin' on tight to the Dream.
"Wasn't Silverwood, the Puyallup Fair, Remlinger Farms and all the other times we went on rides this year enough???"
"Nope - Disney is the funnest."
"But we could do trick or treating here and get lots of candy - your favorite!"
"Well, we have leftover candy anyway and you always buy more."
"Disney is expensive - we could save money and have fun in the water."
"You can work more to get more money."
I stopped there cause I was about to have a breakdown.
So I think we're off the Disney at the end of the month. Just wish I could take it back!
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