"Twas the Day After Christmas...

... And all through our home, every creature was stirring except for The Husband...
Men, they will sleep through anything without the slightest hint of guilt. God bless them. Hunter and I were up early and he is busy with his 100 new matchbox cars and trucks. He really made out good on Christmas. Heck, we all made out well for Christmas. We have a new Wii, 5 new ducks for the dog, a new knitting purse, a knitting kit, lots of new knitting books, yarn, a Slap Chop, a handmade Bunad for Hunter, and so much more! It was a good day. We had a turkey dinner and just kept a low profile.
Today I don't know what is in store. Probably more laziness. I've never been a fan of the after Christmas sales. I really don't like crowds of bargain shoppers. So, we may just stay close to home.
I"ve noticed I can't just relax. I always have to be doing something. I can't just sit and watch TV without eating, knitting, or working on something. I am a true multitasker. This is a blessing and a curse. I need to learn how to just be sometimes. Maybe I'll work on that today... HA, who am I kidding. Off to clean the bathrooms now!

Christmas Eve Pack-In

Yes, our last load of household goods arrived on Christmas Eve morning. Yippee! It only took 30 minutes for all the items to be loaded into our home. About a quarter of our Christmas gifts were in this pack-in. Thank God they arrived in time! Now I have all my yarn - at least what I could find - and am about to unpack it in my office... this might take a few hours...

Krumkake is a Norwegian thing... it's flour, butter, eggs, sugar and vanilla all thrown together and then ironed to crisp perfection and rolled into ice cream cone shapes. It can filled with cream, ice cream, fruits or nothing. It's yummy. I make Krumkake every Christmas now. It's become tradition ever since my mother bought me my first krumkake iron a couple years back. Well, The Husband I decided to make the Krumkake and other goodies for a neighborhood Christmas gathering tonight. Only we made the Krumkake early so we wouldn't have to rush today. Dumb. The massive shift of humidity onto San Antonio the last 48 hours coupled with a dryer line that isn't quite clamped down has turned crispy pastries into moldable weridness. They still taste great but I can't in good conscious serve this to my new Texas neighbors. Oh well, guess there's more Krumkake for me...

Ahhhhhh

Yeap, it's pretty much done. We're moved in. At least me, the kid and the animals. The Husband likes to unpack his stuff at his own leisure... which is usually three to four months behind mine. The main living areas are done, the bedroom is done and Hunter's room is done. Just the guest bedroom and The Husband's office need to be unpacked and organized. It feels good.
The photo is taken from my office looking towards the kitchen and then the dinning room beyond. We don't have a camera right now because the charger is in the shipment from Idaho that is due in on Christmas Eve. I know, dumb. Anyhow, once I get the camera I will post a few photos to entertain you all with.
Today I went to a learning center to scope out care for Hunter. I like to have him in daycare three days a week... it gives him a chance to have fun and get some energy out and socialize and it gives me a break to get things done and have me time. I think I've found a place that covers all my bases. It's only a mile and a half from the house and Hunter loves it. I took him with me for the interview and tour and he ran into the play room and took out all the cars and trucks to play with and was hyper focused on nothing but those for the rest of the time. When we had to leave he screamed and cried and kicked. He did NOT want to go. Further proof that getting him out a few times a week is vital, he loves it.
I have to take a moment now and talk about a total indulgence. It's called The Container Store. I often see items from this store in magazines like Real Simple and Martha Stewart Living. It's a store dedicated to organizing stuff. It's a OCD dream! I really had to hold myself back there. It's similar to IKEA in that it's simple design and sleek. The prices are a little over the norm but the products are fantastic. I ended up getting a few Stockholm Office Storage Boxes, a couple of Stockholm Desktop File Boxes, a Page'Up, a Bulletin & Magnetic Strip, a Pull Out Basket for the kitchen, and an Aluminum Can Crusher just to name a few. The whole shopping experience was orgasmic. Can't wait to go back again someday soon!
I hear the whining of my little man. Nap time must be over now... back to my life.

Progress

Today I can report that I feel that progress has finally been made in our house. I have cleared enough boxes and developed enough living space free of moving debris that I feel we are finally getting somewhere! I know that my view of progress is skewed. I spent many good years a money in therapy learning and acknowledging this... still it remains... at least I am aware.
The living room is looking good, only 6 boxes remain on the first floor... most have enormous rugs that need to be hung and laid on the dinning room floor -- which needs to be steam cleaned... that's today's chore. Upstairs I was able to empty and put away 10 boxes in the master closet in just one hour this morning. Now I just want to sit for awhile while my little man takes a morning nap.
Now for a cultural lesson: I got my local channels on my Directv today. Over half are spanish speaking channels. Wow. Maybe now is the time to really learn spanish. I took three years in high school and never really got great at speaking the language. I can say a few things and I am learning more through hours of 'Handy Manny' on the Disney channels. Living in a place like San Antonio it's very obvious that white english speaking natives are rare. In order to have a thorough and diverse experience here I think it is time to bite the bullet and actually learn a language inside and out. So, do I watch 'Judge Mathis' today or "Necesito una Amiga'? Choices.

Ugh...

Still unpacking... still hating it! I think I've finally reached a point where I don't care if the closets or trim are painted... I just want to unpack already! Today has been more of the same.. unpacking the first floor. I could move to the second but my energy is on the fritz and the security installation people are here hogging up much of my time. I think it's time for a nice cold Dt. Pepsi and a TV break... to be continued...

Day Two In San Antonio

It's still quite early here in Texas. I'm waiting for my meds to kick in and wake me up. Again I am dreading the day ahead of me with unpacking. Hunter is a 'pistol' today - that's what my mother called it on the phone. He's up and into everything and talking up a storm about all he's doing. I am like a limping old dog. My body is very sore and my focus is very .... oh look a squirrel! Well, you get the idea.
Good news about the weekend is that The Husband has hired a friend to come out and help again with painting. They will both be working on rooms that I haven't unpacked yet... so I'm off for the weekend. If I can just get the first floor done today then there's little if anything for me to do on Saturday and Sunday. I'm thinking of going to Austin to IKEA. Of course I'll be doing this with Hunter... a bit tricky but doable.
Ugggggggh... ok back to going through boxes. Right now I'm working on the office boxes which are all mixed up. The Husband and I shared an office back in WV but now are on different floors here in TX. Lots of carrying boxes up and down the stairs... my poor back!

Sunrise in San Antonio

Today was my first day in San Antonio. It was a beautiful morning. The sunshine coming in our living room was perfect. Our old place in West Virginia didn't have as many windows... I love my windows here. I got off to a slow start unpacking but after taking my ritalin I was a woman possessed. Hunter kept himself busy with whatever he'd find. I got most of the kitchen unpacked and am working on the dinning and living rooms. Tomorrow I plan on getting those done and at least half of my office area.
I haven't made it out to town yet. I will hopefully get to do that this weekend.
Ahhhhh... I think my ibrophren is kicking in... relaxing.

LOSER

.... Now back to your regularly scheduled blogging.

All is Good

So it all worked out. The house is bought, the rennovations are underway thanks to the Husband. Hunter and I will join him this week. I am taking a Saturday night and enjoying a Boise favorite... Chicago Connection pizza. Yum. You can't find this anywhere else but here in the Treasure Valley. It's a cheese lovers dream. Everytime I come back to Boise I have to have Chicago Connection pizza and pork tacos at Cafe Ole. Mission accomplished.
Poor Hunter has come down with a double ear infection and is quite sick. Yesterday he was running a temperature of 103. Today he is better. His tylenol and antibiotics have all kicked in and he's pretty active and sassy. I hope I can get him better by Tuesday so I can get him one last day in daycare before we leave but it's pretty touch and go. I can't believe how bad he got before he started showing symptoms of his infection. Oh well, you live and you learn.

HOLDING OUR BREATH

Today is 'C' day. That's Closing Day. At sundown we should be the proud owners of a new home. Of course anything can happen between now and then. It's rare here in the US for problems to pop up in the house buying process. Initially you get an inspector to check out the basics of the home and tell you what is good, bad and ugly. Then who ever decides to front you the money to buy the home has an appraiser come in and do the same. We are getting a VA loan which is one of the strictest ones out there. Stains on carpets must be cleaned and or replaced, screens missing from windows must reappear and so forth. Our biggest road bump has been with this appraiser but I think he'll be happy now and give us the money to buy the home. If not, it's back to square one and living in a van down by the river. But let's be positive.
My time in Boise is coming to an end. Very soon I will be down in Texas (house or not). Again I feel strange about my relationship with this community. I really think I've just finally 'grown out of' Boise. It's no longer home. Leaving B-town is ok and although I will miss my friends here I am really happy to be reunited with my husband, dog and cat... and to have us all together again like a home.

The moving process continues. Today I spent a few hours on the phone transferring utilities into our names, setting internet at our new house and arranging the move for me from Idaho to Texas. Now I am sick. No, really, I think I have the hamtrhax, or as it's officially known as SWINE FLU. Oh this mo'fo' hit me around noon like a ton of bricks. Achiness, exhuastion and a fever of over a 100 degrees. Swell. I just want to sleep or die but can't seem to do either. Thank god I got done all that I did this morning... I don't know if I"ll be able to do much for the next few days. Pray for me.

Pending

We got ourselves a homestead, sort of. Our offer for a home has been accepted. We had an inspection today and had to ask for a few concessions that add up to a couple thousand dollars. Hopefully this will not blow the deal. The home is nice. You can check out photos here. The closing for the home will happen on November 30th. So plenty of time for the other shoe to drop but I don't think that will happen.
While some people get uber elated when they buy a home I seem to have fallen into coma. I like the home I just think the whole process has just taken the enthusiasm out of me. It is kindof like the mild depression you get after having a baby. It's finally there but ugh. I'm sure I'll perk up after the 30th.

You're My Obsession

I'm knitting some gloves on size 0 needles right now. I know, I think I was drunk when I picked out this pattern. Anyhow, I decided to spoil myself and bought some Blue Sky Alpaca knitting needles. They were quite an investment ($28, 17 GBP, 160 NOK). Still they did fairly well at first but the yarn I was using and my tension made the going quite slow. To add to the frustration I am using a very dark yarn and very dark needles. Dumb.
Meanwhile on another project I was using some new square circulars by Kollage. The cable on the circulars was nothing special and infact caught the yarn on the joint with the needles. Frustrating. Otherwise I loved the needles, they had nice sharp points and the grip was really nice.
So yesterday I finally put the two together and got some size 0 double pointed square needles. Ahhhhhhhhh... that's better. It's like cutting into warm butter. I wish the circulars were better made but I know for future investment purposes I will get the Kollage square needles. They were cheaper than the uber expensive ones (only $14, 8.50 GBP, 80 NOK).
That's it for now...

Nomads

Our life as nomads will soon be ending. San Antonio, Texas is where we will be settling. It's a great relief to have a final destination. Unfortunately we can't just stay on the military base there... we have to buy a house. This is a mixture of excitement and dread. So far The Husband and I are shopping homes online with a realtor based in San Antonio. There's a great inventory of homes in the price range we are pre-qualified for and comfortable with. In a little over a week we will meet in San Antonio and hopefully sign a contact for a new home!
As expected the house hunt has send my current lifestyle into a tail spin. Knitting is still going but has slowed some. I doubt I will get all my projects done but I am still aiming to get close. My health is finally on the mend and I am feeling quite well.
I doubt you'll hear much from me this month as I search for a home and prepare for a new life in San Antonio but once things are finalized I will post it all here.

Son of a B*(&^

Just as I finish addressing all my Christmas envelopes my husband calls with news on where we will move next and that it will likely happen soon, very soon... Where's the white out?!
More to come when we get the actual orders in our hands...

HINT ONE: They make salsa there and no, it's not NEW YORK CITY!

It's That Time Again

Christmas Cards. Yeah. I went by the old Target yesterday and bought a load of Christmas cards for this year. Currently we are up to sending out around 100 cards each Christmas. I know, we are masochists. My father stared in shocked silence as I set up my processing line on the coffee table while watching House last night. He asked why I sent out so many damn cards. Well, there are several reasons. The most selfish is that it's a way to network and keep people in our lives who might be able to help us out. As a military family we are always welcoming new people into our lives and we relay on those friends to help us navigate through the military system. I may not talk to some of them very often anymore but someday they might be able to help us adjust to a new base, discover a new government program that will help us or just be there as a shoulder to cry on when things get tough. In addition to being a military family I am blessed with close ties to extended family around the world. Nobody I know keeps in touch with 4th or 5th cousins in Norway or England. We do. These ties are wonderful for learning new cultures, family history and always having a place to stay when you are far from home. Some of the best cards come from overseas and I honestly don't want to miss out on those so I HAVE to send a letter and card every year. On a selfless level I know that some of the recipients, usually the older ones, really appreciate a letter and card, even from people they don't know well. Also there's something nice about receiving a lengthy letter and card instead of an email memo. Sure you save money with email but it's not alive and it isn't in your hands with your name handwritten.
That was another thing my father didn't understand. Why in the world would I handwrite all the addresses, return addresses and then two or three lines in each card. Because it's personal and intimate. Because of the mass of cards we do now I can't do anymore than that but we do enclose a typed memo as well. Still I need to write a few more personal lines in some cards to show more of a connection and personality.
Do people really appreciate it? I think more than half really enjoy it. And no, I don't get the same amount back... but maybe I'm showing my generation a new way of communicating... or old way. It's an art that is going away and really needs to stay with us. When I get a card with a personal message in it that is hand written I feel like someone cared. So here I am, caring for about 40 to 60 hours over the next month to get all these cards, memos, messages and addresses done. I care a lot.

FYI - If you usually get a card from us and have moved EMAIL your NEW ADDRESS to me! I hate getting these things back!

A Couple Videos

Here are a couple new videos of Hunter. He wanted to talk on the mobile phone like his Grandpa Rick one night...

Death and Education

So The Beast v2.0 has died a premature death. After looking at the pattern and asking around for more information I finally got a good look at what the finished item should be... not really what I wanted. Plus I think the person I'm knitting it for wouldn't like it as much as what I am now going knit. So I frogged it and am starting in on a new project for her.
My knitting has shifted down gear over the past two weeks. I'm still putting in time every day but more like 4 hours instead of the 6 to 8 I was doing. I feel sort of guilty but I am getting more done and spending more time with my son.
Another project I'm working on is a trade of trades. My massage lady is giving me some free massages in exchange for computer lessons. I think it's going great. She's a Mac person like me and has just enough skills to be deadly. I'm helping her sharpen those skills and possibly put her sculpting and puppet making businesses up on the internet. The lessons so far have shown how much I don't understand about certain things... her questions are great and often are my questions so we research it together. Today I've really opened up so much new stuff with my Gmail account. I was just doing the bare basics for years there but now I'm syncing my contacts with my Mac Address Book and my iCal with my Google Calendar. Next up I'll be getting more into Blogger and seeing what can be done there that I haven't explored.
It's been awhile since I really learned something new and exciting on the computer. After college I just slid by but it's so refreshing to try out new stuff and make new connections with programs I thought I knew. This type of learning has been sorely missed the past few years. I didn't know it until now. I'm glad to find a new outlet for my creativity and learning.
In addition to trading trades with one person I'm also about to embark on doing it with another. More computer stuff so this is great. I missed working. Even though actual money is not moving around at least I'm getting a break on services and getting my skills sharpened again. I feel productive, wanted, and inspired. Not bad for a Thursday.

The Beast v2.0

Yeah, I have a new most hated project. We will call it The Beast v2.0. Really it's a Civil War shawl for my Aunt Janet. I found it in a series of books: Knitting a La Mode, Knit Two a La Mode and Tunisian Crochet a La Mode. The pattern is an original from a French publication in 1863. The modern day book authors have translated the pattern to English and edited the directions for modern knitters. Still, it reads like a novel. Most patterns keep it simple and use knitter code without any fluffy language. These ladies use words and not the code to knit up their items. This leads to lots of assumptions and confusion. So I am moving along like a slug. I don't know when or if this will get done by Christmas. I've decided this is my project to work on when I am sick of working on anything else. I am also taking this exclusively to my knitting group on Mondays to get help and support. The damn pattern starts off with you casting on 292 stitches. Ugh. Dumb move Serinekat.
Other than the shawl I have my father's Christmas gloves on the needles and an ice mitt on the needles. The ice mitt is a quick knit which I altered a bit from the original pattern. If all goes to plan I should finish three projects this week and have three on the needles at all times.
You can say it - I know I'm crazy.

Burnout

You knew it was a matter of time. I've been knitting, dieting and generally keeping uber busy for the past month. I finished 14 knitting projects in the month of September. I've been at least 80% compliant with my diet. I've seen all my doctors. I'm tired.
Yesterday I put down my needles for most of the day to get some paperwork done and do little jobs around the house. Today I feel much the same. I hope this passes fast. I don't like feeling like this.

Chuggin'

I'm still just 'chugging' along here in Boise. My knitting hit an all time high over the past few weeks. I've taken about 20 hours off, finally. I know, I'm such a rebel. Starting up again tonight making a quick project and then onto the infamous Fish Hats. Here are a few items that I've knit up:

Felted Yoda Hat: Still felting it but it's all knitted up. It's for Hunter for Halloween. We've found instructions on sewing up a Jedi Robe online. This should prove too cute to handle. Pattern can be found on Ravelry, if you are a member (come on, it's FREE people!).

The Crazy Drops Hat: I've knit this up for two people. One is for a teen and the other is for a small kid. The photo if from the kid one. Unfortunately I didn't have my cat to model it. Bummer.

Market Bag: Another great gift knit. Only took my 2.5 days. Really nice. I am in love the cotton I used. It's recycled cotton from remnents. I love the idea of recycled fibers! The color and yarn worked great for this project. Mercanized cotton would also be great or hemp.

Pantas: Yeah, sounds weird but they are cool. They're just knitted headbands. Really neat design. They can be knitted in different widths. I've been knitted a few and tried several different widths to find the right one for me and my friends. I've done four of these this month. Takes a day to do.

So those are the finished projects... Here's what's on the agenda:

Fish Hats:


Qiviut Neck Muff:


I've got a million more where those came from. Let's just day those two projects at two a piece will keep me busy until mid-October. Wish me luck.

Oh, and on a totally different note I am now on a diet. I'm doing SlimFast. I was told my my diabetes nutrionist that it's the same as MediFast only cheaper. So far it's a struggle. I'm not phsycially hungry but emotionally. They have me down to 1500 calories a day. I'm two days in and it's tough. I've found sucking on a hard candy now and then helps satisfy my sweet tooth. More on the diet once I'm fully engaged for awhile. For now I will keep myself busy with knitting.

Under the Gun

What is it about procrastination that makes us really efficent in the end? You'd think most people would just give up and plan to start early again next time... no, not me. I was going to start my Christmas knitting over the summer but as life would have it I never did. Now I am 'under the gun' to get everything done. I have project charts on my computer about how to accomplish this on time. I knit a minimum of 4 hours a day but an average of 6. My butt hurts like hell from sitting all day indian style and knitting. So now I am experimenting with different sitting and knitting positions and chairs.
I think my sudden productivity has to do with living with my parents. I have nothing better to really do around here. Also after my summer incident I need some feel good accomplishments and knitting does that for me. Still, each week I am surprised to see my progress and that I'm still sticking to it. In three weeks I had one day of NO KNITTING. That's crazy! I've never worked this hard for this long. As of this posting I have about 10 projects done, 3 on the needles, and 25 left to do.
In addition to living with my parents as a help... I have to thank Ravelry too. That site keeps me on track and gives me great ideas for all my projects. I'm so into that I run the computer to update each projects several times a day. I'm such a nerd. Sorry.
I've had a few friends ask about my progress with the infamous appeal. It's just sitting right now. I'm obviously avoiding the emotional baggage attached to it. Today while my mother is away I will attack it full on for a few hours. I'm still probably a month or two away from actually talking to a lawyer. Anyhow, I need to get back to knitting... only another hour then it's on to the appeal crap.

Losing It

Was it Freudian or not? Probably was. I've been working on this scarf for my husband for two years. I know, I kept going all ADD on it and forgetting to work or finish it. Well, for the Labor day weekend I spent hours getting 25 inches done on the scarf. I was finally closing in on the last 15 inches when I lost it. Yeah, LOST IT. I took it to a doctor's appointment and forgot it. Luckily today they found it and I can go pick it up. Still, I might wait until tomorrow. I know, ADD strikes again!
Right now I'm working on a panta... it's a cool looking headband that lots of knitters have been knitting. This one is for a friend as a Thank You gift. So far it's been less than 24 hours and I'm half done. I needed a short project to work on after that beast of a scarf.

Idaho Falls

The Husband's family currently lives in Idaho Falls. The time has come to give them a visit this weekend. It's about a four hour drive from Boise. Most of the drive is high desert. We will only be there for a couple days.
As for stuff going on back here in Boise I am keeping busy with doctor appointments and knitting. Yeah, you heard it, I'm still knitting up a storm! I have several Christmas gifts done and more in varying levels of completion. I feel really empowered by this progress. It's hard for me to stick with things for too long. These knitting projects are all things that were supposed to be done a year or two ago. When ever I do stick with projects it's a good sign that my stress level is down and that I'm in a good place emotionally.
On a different note my appeal (don't worry I haven't talked about this before and I am not comfortable giving details of this on my blog so just hang in there) is lagging. Going back to and time lining all that happened to me is just so emotionally draining. For most of this week I'm been practicing avoidance when it comes to this project. I know I need to stand up for myself and quit being a victim. This might me one opportunity to really represent my inner victim and find some justice. Despite this I think I'm trying to sabatoge myself by delaying my work on this appeal. Ugh. I plan to get off my ass next week and on Thursday lock myself in a library somewhere and get my timeline done and more research. That's all I have to say about that.

The Advanced Trainning of Young Bart

My parents new black lab, Bart is quite the handful. My mother and father have both fallen ill with what we suspect is H1N1. So our Bart is finding himself lonely and bored. This isolation leads to spells of chewing destruction in the back yarn and barking fits at all hours. We've tried everything except spending time with him. I know, dumb. So here I am tonight, spending time with Bart. Pray for us.



Oh, and FYI... this is what Bart did to my knitting the other day... yes, PRAY FOR US.

Finally, a Moment

Living with family and having a 1.5 year old around all the time makes blogging a luxury. I feel like a loser when I can't blog. So I have found a little pocket of time to type out my feelings and activities... finally.
Still knitting up a storm. I made a market bag and finished up several cat hats and wristers. I will have the third hat and set of wristers done tonight and then it's back to the beast of all projects. It's not hard and not big but just seems to never get done. It's a scarf that I started making my husband right around the time I got pregnant. Yeah, that's over 2 years ago. It's half done and I am determined to finish it THIS WEEK.
I got Hunter signed up for daycare today at the facility where my friend works. Seems like a nice enough place. The price is annoying but I might be able to get some government money to help out with the cost.
That's it for here... just another busy week of knitting, appointments and paperwork.

Knit Through It

I am off and running here in Boise. Doctor appointments and knitting seem to keep me very busy these days. I'm getting all caught up from about 1.5 years of medical neglect. I'm also getting caught up with my knitting.
Right now I'm feeling more focused than I have in a long time. This is funny because although home things are still stressful around me. Maybe it's just being in a more familiar environment.
I found myself in a few moments where I've been overwhelmed by what is going on in and around me. The escape this I take time to knit, in the quite. Today it was especially theraputic for me. Thank god for knitting.

All That You Can't Leave Behind

I am home. I am back to my birthplace, my childhood haunts and the place which has been the backdrop for most of my life. With each trip back I find the ties a little looser. Don't get me wrong, I love Boise but as the years away from Boise start to add up I find that maybe Boise ISN'T all that I need and where I belong. It's a subtle feeling that I never really entertained too much until now. Although I will always love it here I don't know if it is where we will retire or where I will make a home again. Strange. I guess this is just one of those 'crap, I'm getting old' moments.
I'm still settling into this latest long term stay with my family here in Idaho. I've tried to make things as cozy as possible by packing two large suitcases full of yarn and knitting projects. Yeah - it's my Christmas knitting. Hopefully I can get most of it used up and done with. Today I started on one project which finds itself now a quarter done. I hope this kind of progress just keeps rolling.
I have no clue how long I will be in Idaho this time around. I'm hesitant to sign up for new knitting classes or even try to find a sitter for Hunter. Still, I know I need to. So, shall I go for Crochet for Beginners and/or Magic Loop Sock Knitting?

Extra Baggage

My dog, The Cheat likes to come inside at night with more cargo onboard than when she left the house earlier. This isn't new but lately is increasing in volume. Here's a brief list of items that she blesses us with in our bed or office every night.

Wood Roach
We were blessed with this one on our son's bedroom door a few months back. Nice.


Slugs
This is a hold over from the UK. Her long fur tends to pick up gangs of little and large slugs when she sleeps in moist areas of the garden. This often leads to 'slug picking' in bed at midnight by The Husband and I.


Carpenter Ants
This was a new one last night. Had a carpenter ant the size of our cat crawling on my shoulder in the office. I can only attribute his presence to The Cheat.

Crazy - Like a Fox!

The Husband's extended business trip has been canceled. It's a long complicated tale that really involves me, the Pendleton County police, the West Virginia mental health system, the Navy and my neighbors. Piece it together and I'm sure you'll figure the story out. Ugh. Embarrassing.
Anyhow The Husband is here to stay but I am set to leave. I've been banned from West Virginia - not that I mind that. I'll be moving home to Idaho soon. I'll be staying with my parents until The Husband gets a new job assignment at a more appropriate place... Timbuktu would be more welcoming than here... hell Kabul would be more welcoming. Infact, I've been missing England of late... not that England was bad but we were very isolated there too. Luckily I did find that fabulous knitting group in Lincoln which when I look back - I believe saved my sanity.
I have dropped everything which I had been previously involved with here on base. I did it because I'm leaving, I did it because I'm embarrassed, I did it because they were indeed unorganized and catty at times and my fragile mind was about to implode several times at the last meeting. I have no ill will towards those still involved around here. I think the system is challenging and I think the atmosphere is thick with resignation and laziness. I am not one to lay down quietly - as those who work for the West Virginia state mental health system know well - I am a fighter and cannot allow something to be broke in my presence. I know I need to chill. I know I need to find outside interests. I am now going to a place where that will be possible.
I will keep posting during the moving process. Wish me luck and pray that the people on base quit giving me the stink eye. Booger heads.

Day २७: Lady Day

When Hunter goes to the sitter for the day it is officially 'Lady Day' at the house. It's just me, The Cheat (my dog) and Olivia (the cat). We all enjoy doing one thing - sleeping. Really, it's getting old but that seems to be all I can do when Hunter is not around. I sleep like the dead. It doesn't help that I've been an insomniac lately. Still, I have all these visions of cleaning, knitting, and getting stuff done. Most days I end up taking Hunter to the sitter at 8am and then coming home and sleeping until 10am. Then I dick around on the computer until 11am and then eat lunch. Usually after lunch I get a few things done on my list but not much. I have to go get Hunter at 3pm.
I feel like I am now in a pattern that works. Well, somewhat works. It's restricting but all our needs are met. I think my overall dissatifaction with life stems from motherhood. I love my son but I miss my single life. I miss being able to what I want when I want. On some levels I'm still pissy about losing that life. Still, I know that if I could magically go back there I'd still be depressed and struggling. No matter where you are and what your life circumstances are the grass will always be greener somewhere else. Maybe the trick to life is to somehow develop tunnel vision and only focus and see your current situation and how to improve it and then just enjoy.
Both of my neighbors currently have beautiful front lawns and porches full of flowers and other potted plans. Jealous! Five years ago I would have blown both out of the water with my lawn work and green thumb. These days I'm lucky to get the lawn mowed once a week. This bothered me for awhile this summer. I beat myself up about not having a cleanup porch and pretty plants in the garden. Slowly I've done a few minor things but really - it isn't even close to my best work in the past. Truth is I just don't have the time to be perfect at everything anymore. I further prove this statement you should look at my toilets... I clean them once a week but they still get scary -- I just don't have the time to clean like I used to! Our main living spaces tend to be a 'B' on the cleaning scale. I keep those areas up because I'm there all the time and others can see it. The second floor is another story...
Kids really do change you and your life. Oh well... I guess today I'll just focus again on the main living areas and maybe do my neighbors a favor by sweeping off the front porch and carport. Too bad my 'lady' assistants don't clean... they're so darn lazy!

Day २५: The Highs and Lows

This week is going along fairly well. No big sickness to endure. I've taken my mission to find some sort of military program that I can sign up for down a notch. I'm putting more time and effort into helping our FRG (that's Family Readiness Group) plan an upcoming 'Summer Bash' party in a couple weeks.
My biggest issue this week is my diabetes. What the hell is going on?! I've been fine during the days and then every night at like 9pm my sugars tank and I eat - a lot and then shoot up a little and then tank again. This cycle continues for a few hours. So, I'm not sleeping much. I know what I need to do... take my blood sugars regularly and after a week possibly adjust my basal rates. Still, this is a long term solution and my ADD self finds it boring. Maybe I need more ADD meds? Hmmmmmm.
I found this little photo on the web today:

Sometimes I feel like my type I burdens those around me. I don't often ask for help when I need it. I feel judged when I can't seem to get my bloodsugars in check. Just the other day my father was perplexed as to why I needed to put my son into daycare part-time. When I tried to explain that one reason was to give me time to relax and refocus on my diabetes --- I could hear the annoyance in his breathing. I know he doesn't know what he doesn't know... still it's always tough to have a chronic disease that everyone thinks they know how to manage... but really have NO CLUE.

Day २२: Bridezillas

Another lazy weekend day. Hunter and I stayed in our jammies for the day and played around the house. I think my cold is gone... or at least gone into hiding.
I've spent the day knitting and watching some TV. Tonight it is more of the same. Right now I'm catching up on my Bridezillas. Really, how many women truely freak out over Bachelor parties?! This is just dumb. Honestly, who cares if there is a stripper - as long as they look and do not touch. All these Bridezillas freak out over strippers and Bachelor parties... my goodness! If you don't trust your man then why are you marrying him?! I could care less about my husband in a strip club. I know he's faithful and I know he really never goes to places like that unless it's someone's bachelor party. Anyhow, that's my Bridezilla gripe of the day. Crazy Bitches!
Now that I'm up and knitting again I am organizing it all on Ravelry and trying to plan out my Christmas knitting projects. What a beast of an idea! I'm nuts to tackle as many projects as I have slated. Still, I am a woman possessed... I will try, even if it kills me.
Oh man, moment of truth flash! Bridezillas who over plan weddings and me who over plans Christmas! Man oh man... I'm not better than a Bridezilla! Crap! I hope I never get as evil about my knitting as these ladies are about their weddings! Yikes!

Day २१: Mr. Fix It

We're still alive over here. Just chugging along. Never a dull moment.
This week we got back to daycare. It was pure bliss. Hunter loves his sitter, Darla. She has two girls who also seem to enjoy Hunter. Getting him out of the house three full days a week is so helpful. It refreshes me, gives him something new to explore, and of course keeps the economy going -- yea, the checkbook is smokin'. Still, it's worth every penny.
I am still sick. I think I have the plague. This head cold just will NOT go away. Hunter has made a full recovery. I still have days of pure hell. I spent two of my three days off in bed. My mother wants me to go get some antibiotics on Monday. Probably worth it... I hate going to the doctor but two weeks is enough. If this isn't better by Monday then yeah, bring on the drugs.
The day care situation here on base isn't improving much. We had a child care town hall -- only the usual suspects showed. Really, the only reason the military does child care is to help dual military families and families in which both parents work full time. So we're screwed out here. I'm sure many mothers out here would love to work full time outside the home but we are 45 minutes from the nearest town and jobs... also that's a 45 minutes drive over a really high mountain and windy road. Just isn't worth it. There's just no relief for the moms here... we have no coffee shop, no community center (yeah, we have a 'community center' but it has a bar in it and pool tables... it's more of 'club' than anything else). Anyhow, it's a conundrum.
Today Hunter and I are watching home improvement shows...

Day १७: Yo Gabba Gabba!

I can't decide if Yo Gabba Gabba! is great child programming or an acid trip. Hunter and I are currently watching the program and it seems to really hold his attention. I think he's interested and disturbed by what he sees. My previous exposure to Yo Gabba Gabba! was through clips that The Soup featured making fun of the show... yeah, it's strange.


I know, you have to watch those clips several times. Strange and funny stuff.
Anyhow, we are on day 17 of life without daddy. Hunter started in with his daycare this week. Monday was his first full day and he did great. He is over his cold for the most part. His daycare is with three other girls all around his age. He's a lucky boy. While he was in daycare yesterday I got a lot done around the house. Today is sort of a wash for the most part.
I'm trying to figure out our base FRG and participation problem. It seems we are a people of indifference. We hate the system and love to complain but action is not something anyone is willing to take. How does a group of people come so jaded?
* Lack of Information: What you don't know will drive you crazy. Because of our size and isolation we are far from the usual avenues for advice, tools and general information. Sure the internet is helpful but it has taken me a month to research several topics pertaining to our branch of service and our base. I have but one child at home... most ladies here have several ankle biters. Information needs to be better available for us here.
* Exhaustion: As you can see self help is a full time job out here. As I've learned with my diabetes and insurance nothing comes for free and you must fight for everything. The same is very true when it comes to 'benefits' and 'services' that could be available to people here. If just one person goes about the task of finding this information without support it gets rough. Last week that was my issue. Not only was I doing my research alone but when I went to get base support I was at first dismissed. That has to change. There needs to be more encouragement from all base personnel when it comes to those who seek out self help or help in general.
* Isolation: Again, this one comes up a lot. If we were living say in the San Diego or Norfork area there are plenty of other services and military people around that information and help are available almost everywhere. Here we are alone and hours from the next military installation. If we get a person on this base unwilling to help us do or find this or that then we are stuck we have no other options. Again, the internet is helpful but blunt information is hard to come by.
Mix any of these things together and you get a group of people who just give up and count the days to PSCing. People here are checked out emotionally. I don't blame them, I have to check out on occasion myself.
Through my research I've found that although the isolation is rare that the exhaustion and lack of information is also found in varying degrees at all bases. It all stems from a breakdown in volunteers and participants. Although meetings and socials were the thing to do in the 1990s the new military families like to stay home and focus inward. They want it spoon fed to them on their timetable. I can't blame them either. When you have to find childcare for 4 kids for a meeting where NOTHING really gets accomplished... I'd avoid any FRG function! So the new emphasis on FRGs, Ombudsmen and so forth is the use of the internet. I've long thought that this was an important and under used tool in our group. Now I know it is vital that we pour more time and resources into it. I've already seen a jump in activity and communication on our website since I started revamping it last week.
There's more to be said on this topic. I could write a 50 page document on all my findings and possible solutions to our issues here. It's all floating in my head and marinating. I'll be journaling more about this process... for now I am out of battery power.

Day १३: Honeymoon Phase is Over

The summer head cold trauma of 2009 is slowly coming to a close. I now have guck draining in the back of my throat which leads to the most ever so sexy sounds of deep nasal/throat sniffling and coughing. Thank God The Husband is away... this amount of sexiness might kill him. Hunter is also getting better. He's still grumpy today and clingy. He's working on a repeat of yesterday's 7 hour nap... just 10 more minutes and he might exceed that.
My energy is back to normal levels today and this afternoon I finally got out of bed and started working on my daily chores which have been neglected. I think I'll get it all back together this weekend. I also got confirmation today that my sitter is still going to take my son three full days a week starting Monday. I need to bake her a cake or something! Thank God.
I am thinking I'm going to sign up for one of those prepackaged meal weight loss plans. I've often thought that they were stupid because once you lose the weight then you start making your own food and just get fat again. That's probably the case for many people. Right now though, I really only have to cook for myself. Hunter eats what I eat or I totally fix him up something else. I am finding that I don't want to cook jack. Really, even Mac n' Cheese looks like too much work. I don't see this changing much in the future so why not have prepackaged meals that take 10 minutes to reheat?! At least they will be better balanced nutritionally than anything I am currently eating and I don't have to put too much guess work into it. I'm going to research the programs out there this weekend and hopefully get it going by mid-week. I've noticed my skin getting really pale and other signs of malnutrion.

Day १२: Leave it to Family

So... yeah... I'm not leaving... at least not now. This isn't fully my choice. See the title for further clues as to why I'm still here. Yeah. Ugh.
As for the little man and I we are sick. So sick. There's a heck of a head cold going around and we both have been suffering with it all week long. Hunter had a bad runny nose all week and today the soar throat has hit him hard. I've had to medicate him and due to that he's slept most of the day. Poor man. Right now he's eating well and seems to have his energy back. Still, it will likely be an early night for him.
My head cold has been consistant crappy all week. I ran out of meds yesterday but I think I'm on the downside of this virus. I've taken the opportunity to sleep today as well and it's really helping. I'm hoping tomorrow we can both be on the mend.
Someone on my current base stopped by today and gave me a little pep talk and emotional support. It was needed and his timing couldn't be more perfect. I know I complain a lot about this place. There is A LOT wrong with how things are run and how people interact here but it's not necessarily the people. I think we are all wrung out and exhausted with the system. Many have given up. I don't blame them. Since my blow out a few days ago and new philosophy of 'screw them' I've felt better than I have in a LONG time. Although it was helpful in the short run I can't keep that attitude. I'm stuck, I have to make lemonade here. So, within the next week I will re-enter base life and put my gloves back on.
Twelve days... who knew it would be so hard? My sadness over the absence of my husband is less now. I still miss someone to talk to and bug in the middle of the night. I also miss torturing him over not allowing the dog into bed at night... she gets in all the time now but even she finds this new freedom disturbing. The cat has suffered the most with his absence. Her most favorite bitch is gone and she has taken to shadowing me most evening and hitting me at random out of frustration. I can take beatings... poor evil cat.
So I guess it's status quo here. Crazy as hell. Pray for us.

Day १०: That's It!

Man, you can't say I didn't really try here! The past 48 hours have not played out well for me. I got some dreaded summer head cold and then my push for a government subsidy to help pay for childcare while my husband was away was stonewalled. A girl can only take so much drama and rejection before she cracks. I have cracked, big time. After a long talk to a new friend to be further known as SeaQueen and a counselor on base I know that going back west is my best option for survival. I think my situtation is best described in part of an email I just sent to family and friends... and yes it is edited to omit the names of the guilty....

As many of you know my time here at XXXXXXXXXX is similar to time spent in a federal supermax correctional facility. I have finally gotten over my bout of stockholm syndrome and now realize that my captors are bad naughty people. Much like battered wives about leave I feel as though I must make a fast, clean and efficient getaway... preferably under the dark of night. I have started the ball rolling and I plan to be back in Idaho for much of the next year starting in a few weeks. I have not shared this information with anyone on this base. I just need to leave. Things do not change here and I am not getting any support. I have met some nice people here but it's time to feed myself and my soul. I am looking forward to being with friends and family, to live near shopping and daycare and I embrace all that is dry heat.

So that's that. It was a tough decision because I didn't want to look weak and I didn't was to seem like I was 'running home' to my parents. In reality I used all the tools given to me to try to make this work. I attended all functions, I researched and tried to apply to programs that are meant to help people like me, I attempted to help others through on base groups. All these efforts were in vain. I went in with a positive attitude but really, people don't change. In the future with dealing with the military on any level I now have my eyes WIDE OPEN. As a type I diabetic I've learned that insurance will never tell or give you what you are truely entitled to... you have to fight... same goes for the military and government in general. I don't think either entity wants to be cruel but that's just the nature of the beast.
I will continue my quest in Idaho for better information and care while my husband is away. I expect and hope that the base back home will be more forthcoming and helpful. Maybe this whole thing too is a new inspiration... becoming an advocate for military families and spouses.
I'm feeling better with my decision with every minute that passes. It's a relief to see light and think about seeing family and friends and knowing that there's help around every corner.

Sumptin' Special

Ok, I've updated my playlist on the side... the first few songs are favorites right now... the rest are from Flight of the Conchords. I love those guys.
Track #4 - Dedicated to the military... nuff said.
Track #5 - To my bitches.
Track #6 - To my husband because you can't rap either.

Day ८: Cat Love is in the Air

Today is Olivia's day to express her sadness over the absence of her daddy. She's been crazy and lovey all day. It's getting a little creepy.
Anyhow, today went well. The little man and I went into H'burg to do some shopping at the Wal-Mart and Target. Once home we both napped for a couple hours then played until dinner and played some more until bath and bed time. I think the key for us to have a good day is to follow some strict rules in the morning. We must get up at the same time, both eat breakfast and then I have to be ruthless about getting my blood sugar accounted for and my medications on board for the day. Without these steps being accomplished by 9am things tend to go downhill fast for me.
Lucky for me my neighbor has volunteered to watch Hunter for three hours on Monday and Friday this week... ahhhhhh... one less thing to worry about. After this week my daycare should be back on board and coping should get a little easier.
I've been alone for a week now and although I've gone longer with the baby while The Husband was away this is different. The light at the end of the tunnel is VERY far away. One week, one month... those are one thing... more than that gets daunting. It's insane to think about it in one whole chunk. Maybe weekly bites are easier. A neighbor and I were talking the other day and she reported that the last couple to live in my home also endured a long separation. She said that the wife immediately redid the bedroom and put away most of her husband's stuff. Strange but I can understand it. Out of sight, out of mind. I have been tempted to do the same but I think it only makes the homecoming harder. I have changed a few things that know The Husband was not keen on but it was for my own comfort and sanity. I still keep his clothes in the same spot and his pile o' junk on his side of the office. I removed his electric razor off the bathroom sink (our bathroom there is limited counter space and that clunker takes up 1/3) and I've put alway all his coats into the closet. That's about all of my husband that I've 'erased' from the house. I think that is all I need... and it's not because I don't want reminders but that I'm just too anal and efficient. I imagine I'll also get around to cleaning his side of the office. It's tradition now. Whenever he leaves me for more than a month... his office gets a makeover. I know it drives him nuts but I really do try my damnedest to stay away.
So tomorrow... well I have several things that are on my list but I feel the need to spoil myself a bit. I think yoga and then working on cleaning up the office are my two projects while Hunter is at the neighbors. I also have to take a package to the post office to mail to The Husband. Ugh... my work is never done.

Day ७: Week One Down

My cat is busy right now sitting on my lap as I type and biting me whenever she deems necessary. The dog is sleeping on my bed and Hunter is away and playing in his crib. I still haven't showered and it's almost 3pm on a Saturday.
My problem is how to proceed with my day. I could get the little man up and go outside and mow the lawn while he plays on the porch... or I could shower and take him to the park. I'm thinking lawn, then shower and then park. This should take most of the night up to his bedtime at 8pm. Yeah, I like that plan.
I am doing ok today. Not motivated to do much but if I took my pills like a good girl I bet I'd perk up. So let's see, the plan is as follows: Pills, lawn, shower then park. I really do suck at getting anything done this past week. I decided early on that I was just going to 'get through' my first week and not try to do anything too ambitious. This coming week will be a different story.
Week Two Goals
* Start food journal, along with BS level journal
* Develop a weekly cleaning schedule
* One full base walk a day
* Finish two important knitting projects
That's a decent start. Now i have to go rescue the baby from crib boredom. The lawn has been in a start of free growth for three weeks now. The neighbors are talking.

I WANT MY PILLS MAN

This is a cut and paste from a military spouse forum I am a member of... I left this post there a few hours ago...

Dear Bethesda Navel Hospital Pharmacy,
I put in my order for my Ritalin three weeks ago. I did this because typically you always miss/forget/have a senior moment when it comes to putting it on the van down to my base each week. I put the order in early this time to allow for such mistakes. Now I have three pills left… and you still missed my Ritalin on Thursday. In short - you suck. This isn’t the first time this has happened. I have used all the tools I have to help myself in this situation. I have called the base clinic, I have called the Bethesda Pharmacy manager, I have told the base CO of my troubles and then of course, after weeks of no Ritalin I went off my rocker and found myself suicidal and led to security and whole base discovering my issue with you. Still, you forget. I’d love to get my Ritalin at an off-base pharmacy but they (medical clinic on base) tell me that isn’t possible unless I see a certified psychologist (closest one is Bethesda, go figure) and they write me a prescription. Since that requires me to travel north 4 hours and then spend the night I must ask who will pay for all this? Oh right… that would be ME.

Serinekat

Day 6

It's all about vocabulary. Last night while in the bath, Hunter and I worked on vocab together. After pointing to my nose and his nose and saying 'nose' a few times he finally pointed, then stuck his finger as deep in his nose as it would go and said, "ose". Then he kept playing with his... penis. He's such a boy. Anyhow I kept telling him that it was his 'pe-pe'. Finally he point at it said "p-a p-a'. I said, "good boy!" and Hunter raised his hand for a high five. Now he says p-a p-a constantly. I've created a monster.
Today is refreshing. We have just started in on a big thunder and rain storm here. It was needed. The grass was starting to turn yellow. Olivia is taken to hiding under the futon in Hunter's room. She is NOT a big fan of rain or storms. Hunter and The Cheat are downstairs playing and watching the Disney channel. I just got out of the shower and am trying to come up with my plan for the day. I must work on getting a package ready to send The Husband. I was going to do that last night but couldn't summon the strength after Hunter went to bed. We also have a carnival on base today... although in this weather who knows where or if it will be up and running.

Day 5.5

So it was another emotional day for me. It started out ok then went south fast and now is recovering. I have to say thanks to family and friends who call me up for a few minutes here and there. Those calls have gotten me out of my funk today. Even when you didn't think I was in a funk... I was and just listening to you or answering your questions really helped.
NEWS FLASH

Let there be light. I got my fancy bulbs today for my IKEA lamp. I had to buy them in a box of 10... since the last one lasted a year I should be good to go until Hunter enters middle school. Olivia seems unimpressed with my purchase.
Tonight's agenda... not sure. I am cooking dinner... yes you heard me... cooking. No this is not a box dinner tonight, I am making my Indian Food dinner. Hunter is downstairs playing. He was a cranky little guy when he got home from the sitter's today. I think he was hungry because he ate all his dinner in under 15 minutes. Now he's just as happy as a clam playing with his cars. Ok, I must go check on dinner.

Day 5

Baby boy is off to the sitter today until 4pm. It's relief and sad not to have him around. I celebrated by going back to bed for two hours this morning. Wooo hooo! Now I am up and messing around in the office. The office is a slippery slope of procrastination and time suckage. I must be cautious in this place. My cat, Olivia stands watch next too me... she knows about the office curse and wants me to stay on task... otherwise I will sit here and do nothing in HER room.
I have to go down to the base clinic today. All my perscriptions were outdated and I need to see the doctor for more refills. Blah. I hate this crap. I also have to get him to write up a slew of referrals so I can take my son to the pediatrician and get a phsycial. It's ridiculous that I need these referrals to go do simple things like this... oh and a teeth cleaning... gotta get one for that too! Without one of these referrals I'd have to pay full price up front. With the referral it's 100% free.
Crap, Olivia has deemed office time over. It's now LOVE TIME. Gotta Go.

Day 4

Each day on my own gets a little better and exposes new cracks in my routine. Blah. Yesterday ran rather well. The baby and I took a walk with neighbors in the late afternoon... bad idea... forgot to wear sunscreen. Then Hunter had a big dinner of dinosaur pasta and meat balls. He really liked it. Once in bed I went about cleaning out the pit which is my bedroom. Ugh, it got really cluttered with all the packing and unpacking of the last month. It took a good 3 hours to get it back together again. I was too pooped to noticed that I never had dinner last night, nor lunch today. That's the crazy thing about having a husband 'away for work'. I have totally lost my appetite. I know this isn't all good but it isn't all bad either... I'm a binge eater so this lack of hunger is impressive for me. I wonder how long it will stay with me. In any case I'm re-stocking the house with more healthy foods for when I do remember to eat.
Today was the big FRG meeting. We had it at the park on base. Not a great idea but there was little to talk about and cover so it went quickly. My involvement is much less than last year. This partly due to choice and partly due to some strange phenomenon that I can't put my finger on. Everytime they ask for volunteers for something I raise my hand... but they never call and invite me to meetings... It's like they don't want me to get my hands too far into the group. Strange. I want to say something but after my experience last fall I've learned that officer wives just need to stay on the sidelines and try not to rock the boat. So I'm standing on the side, very still.
My social life is a work in progress. Many nights I prowl the streets of the base and corner people out for walks or on their porches and talk to them. I don't care if I know them or not. I just talk to them. I take my son and dog as social lubricants. They can always help move a conversation and keep things interesting. Some people are catching onto my game and I can see them rolling my eyes when I come towards them with my stroller and dog attached to my hip. I don't care. I need to talk.
I am lining up some more babysitting days for Hunter. Today I got the morning off and tomorrow I get a whole day! This is long over due but worth the wait. I still have lots to do around the house and when I clean bathrooms and use chemicals it's best not to have him around at all.
Speaking of cleaning. I've gone broke with a new cleaning purchase... the Haan steam cleaner. It's for hard floor surfaces and more. I've been using a Swiffer for sometime and the residue from the pads is gross and never quite goes away and the money put into buying new pads sucks. With our entire first floor made of a pergo like material I figured a steam cleaner that uses only water might be the best. I went midrange with this Haan package. Hopefully I will be impressed. I'll keep you all updated.

Day Three

Yesterday was a wash. The babysitter never showed nor called. My depression was at a high. I must say thank you to all my friends and family who talked to me on the phone, skype and on facebook. That all really helped. Today I awoke in a much better mood. Hunter and I drove into town and went shopping at Wal-Mart. We got a great deal of stuff and treated ourselves to McD's on our way home. Hunter fell asleep with a McNugget in his mouth. It felt out at one point and then just minutes from home he awoke and looked down and grabbed it and continued to eat like nothing happened. Boys.
I just read that a distant relative of mine has passed on. He was older and suffering from cancer. My family is very sad to hear of his passing even though we had only met him once. He made quite an impression. Helge was by all accounts a great husband and father and grandfather. Him and his family made our trip to Norway and to the family's farm a joy and pleasure. His legacy is beautiful - a wonderful brood of kids and grandkids and a close relationship with extended family around the world. When my son is older and asks what makes and man a man I will point to men like Helge and his family. They are devoted to family and friends and always leave the world a little better. Thanks for the wonderful time in Norway Helge... God bless you and your family. You will be missed more than you know!