We met with the surgeon, Dr. Kevin Kadesky, earlier tonight.
He said that Eva's tumor is approx 13.5 cm or the size of a baseball. He said that they were "pushing the limit" on whether or not they could remove it at all or have to send her to chemo to shrink it before removing it.
To do the surgery, they will do what is called a thorocotomy, which is an incision on the right side of her lower chest. Eva's surgery is very complicated because 1) the size of the tumor and 2) the location. Her ribs are the main problem. His quote "on the complicated scale to 10, this is a 6." He said that the surgery will be from 4-6 hours depending on how long it takes to get it out.
He went through the different things that they might have to do to remove it, cut it in half, take it out whole, cut it away from whatever it is attached to, etc.
Bottom line is that they will do the best they can to get as much of it out tomorrow as possible. He said that they will know right away if they cannot remove it and they will get a biopsy, put in a port for chemo, and close her up.
Either way, Eva will have a port put in for her expected chemotherapy. Now, as you know, we do not have an accurate diagnosis yet and won't for several days up to a week. They will do a frozen section biopsy to get a preliminary diagnosis while they are in the OR. There is a VERY small chance that Eva will not have to have chemo but they want to put in the port anyway so they don't have to go in again. Fine by me.
They have told us that Eva will probably be in the PICU tomorrow night and back in her room the next day if all goes well.
Jon and I are here by ourselves tonight. Our bed is set up in the room but I doubt either of us will get any sleep. Honestly, we are both so scared.
You probably will not hear from me tomorrow, as the day goes. If I can get to a computer, I will be sure to post something. If not, I'll try to have one of my family members post.
Sunday, March 02, 2008
Sunday
Well, today has been quiet, thankfully. I even got out of the hospital for a couple of hours thanks to my dear friend, Adrienne and my sister, Angela. We put together Jack's party favors for his class. As it turns out, Jack's birthday is Tuesday. For those who know him, feel free to wish him Happy Birthday on the big day! He's a big 4!
We are back at the hospital waiting for the surgeon to come to talk to us about tomorrow. Right now, the surgery is scheduled for 2p. The surgeon is trying to take her early but who knows. We will be playing that by ear.
Several folks have asked some questions that I thought I would answer as best I know:
1) We don't know how they are going to do the surgery. When we met with the surgeon, we still did not know if it had spread yet so that determined how he was to go in. We'll know tonight.
2) Eva is just fine. She walks the halls saying hello to EVERYONE as they go by. It is hard to imagine that that tumor is growing inside her little body because she is so unbelievably happy.
She is so hilarious. When the staff come in, she just stops where she is and sticks her arm out for them to test her. Smart one, that baby, that's for sure. Today, when the dr. came by, she ran to him, kissed him on the cheek and as he was leaving, took his hand to lead her down the hallway. If any ounce of him was not motivated to take good care of her before, I'm sure he is now! That was precious!
3) Jack is doing remarkably well. Today, he recorded a little message for his sister on her new "cell phone" that I had bought for her. Now, when you hit play, you hear "I love you, Fuzz!"
You know, I have to say, while I have a moment, if you ever doubt the kindness of strangers, all you need is a sick baby to reinforce your belief in goodness.
My parents had practically all of American Airlines in Raleigh and Washington making sure that they got on the plane here on Friday. Then, they got lost on the way to the hospital and a friendly policeman took 20 minutes to explain to them how to find their way here. My sister has the most incredible story I have ever heard of on Continental airlines yesterday. They were so amazing to her.
From the staff, to the strangers who have been praying for my daughter to the other parents here in the floor with us, we are so blessed, and I am most thankful.
Eva was baptised today. I hate that it had to happen this way and that I was such a bad mom to not do it properly in the church. I'll make it up to her when we get out of here, I swear!
Please keep her in special thoughts at 2p tomorrow.
Thank you, again,
K
We are back at the hospital waiting for the surgeon to come to talk to us about tomorrow. Right now, the surgery is scheduled for 2p. The surgeon is trying to take her early but who knows. We will be playing that by ear.
Several folks have asked some questions that I thought I would answer as best I know:
1) We don't know how they are going to do the surgery. When we met with the surgeon, we still did not know if it had spread yet so that determined how he was to go in. We'll know tonight.
2) Eva is just fine. She walks the halls saying hello to EVERYONE as they go by. It is hard to imagine that that tumor is growing inside her little body because she is so unbelievably happy.
She is so hilarious. When the staff come in, she just stops where she is and sticks her arm out for them to test her. Smart one, that baby, that's for sure. Today, when the dr. came by, she ran to him, kissed him on the cheek and as he was leaving, took his hand to lead her down the hallway. If any ounce of him was not motivated to take good care of her before, I'm sure he is now! That was precious!
3) Jack is doing remarkably well. Today, he recorded a little message for his sister on her new "cell phone" that I had bought for her. Now, when you hit play, you hear "I love you, Fuzz!"
You know, I have to say, while I have a moment, if you ever doubt the kindness of strangers, all you need is a sick baby to reinforce your belief in goodness.
My parents had practically all of American Airlines in Raleigh and Washington making sure that they got on the plane here on Friday. Then, they got lost on the way to the hospital and a friendly policeman took 20 minutes to explain to them how to find their way here. My sister has the most incredible story I have ever heard of on Continental airlines yesterday. They were so amazing to her.
From the staff, to the strangers who have been praying for my daughter to the other parents here in the floor with us, we are so blessed, and I am most thankful.
Eva was baptised today. I hate that it had to happen this way and that I was such a bad mom to not do it properly in the church. I'll make it up to her when we get out of here, I swear!
Please keep her in special thoughts at 2p tomorrow.
Thank you, again,
K
Saturday, March 01, 2008
Jack Update
So, file this under "Un-effin-believable!"
Today, Jon decided that he wanted to go home, take Jack out after his soccer game to their favorite pub for lunch, Trinity Hall. Then, they were going to come back to the hospital to visit us.
Off Jon goes. Eva and I were just hanging out at the hospital with my parents when Jon called.
Jack had a seizure at the Target.
They were in an ambulance on the way to Medical City where we are with Eva. Seriously, I do not know how my legs made it to the emergency room to meet the ambulance. Even now, it seems like a dream.
Turns out, in the world's cruelest coincidence, Jack had a febrile seizure for the first time because he had strep throat. We did a ct scan on him and that came back normal and also a chest xray. Jack is fine and at home with Dad tonight.
I thought that when I was there with Eva on Thursday, it was the worst point in being a parent. I did not know how it could be topped. Now, I will never doubt that things can just get worse. I'm not quite sure what God is testing me for but I swear, it has to be something really good.
I'm fine now but only for the grace of God and the wonderful nursing staff here at Medical City. They came in, picked me up from sobbing and hyper-ventilating on the floor, and guided my limp body to meet the ambulance.
Also, our wonderful pediatrician, Dr. Kennedy who came immediately upon hearing the news. She has been amazing to us and we would be so lost without her. By the way, Dr. Kennedy did correct me on an earlier post. She was NOT worried about brain damage to Eva from the seizure. She was worried about the fever. THAT is why we were here. I asked her forgiveness for my creative licensing! :)
A special shout out to Whit and Kelee for their help today in coming BACK to the hospital when I called them to tell them about Jack and for the delicious red wine I am drinking as we speak, thanks to Kelee. Unfortunately, the nurses could not arrange the IV margaritas I had requested, so this will have to do.
Thank you again for your calls and emails. Please forgive me if I am not quick to respond but I appreciate EVERYTHING!
And the hits just keep on coming....
ADDED BY JON ON SUNDAY:
Well, since Kristi experienced Eva Jane's seizure on Thursday, I suppose it was my turn on Saturday. All set for some Dad-Jack one-on-one time, we planned a trip to a couple of stores, lunch at our pub, and a trip to the hospital. Jack was hanging to me all morning, this being my first time back since I left for work on Thursday. He felt fine, and I attributed most of his behavior to our family situation.
As we headed to the checkout counter, Jack slumped over to the side of the cart and his eyes moved towards the ceiling. It looked as if he saw something interesting on the ceiling and was following it as I moved down the aisle. At the front, I said he needed to straighten up, lest I knock his head in the checkout line. Lifting him up, I thought he might be goofing off. But I immediately noticed he was warm, and his eyes were in the back of his head. At this point, no twitching or physical indications of a seizure. But I knew something was wrong.
I was standing next to a Target employee who asked if I needed help. I said, "I think my son is having a seizure." She called a few folks over. Then I saw some leg twitching and heard teeth clicking. The paramedics were called at my request. An unnamed male shopper with his two sons never identified himself as a doctor, but he stood about 10 feet away and would ask/say key things. "Has he ever had seizures before?" No. He then got the employees to get the paramedics.
I must say I was a rock through all of this. And the only reason is because I was a two-day veteran of the febrile seizure (never heard of it in my life before Thursday). Experience breeds confidence, I guess.
Our friend, Sara Wilson, who was quite familiar with our situation with Eva Jane, happened to be shopping and was standing near us. What must have been going on in her mind is beyond me. She was so kind to try to help.
Kudos to the Target lead at the desk. She calmly and quickly called 911.
The ambulance came very quickly. Within minutes we were in the ambulance. After some info passing and quick examination, we were heading to the hospital. Normally they transport to Presbyterian Hospital, but how many patients can say, "Would you please take us to Medical City since my wife and daughter are already there?" Off we went. My two disappointments: 1) Jack has no memory of our ride. 2) They didn't use the siren (and I was too chicken to ask).
Now the most dreaded of tasks: Calling Kristi. How in the hell do I tell her?
Today, Jon decided that he wanted to go home, take Jack out after his soccer game to their favorite pub for lunch, Trinity Hall. Then, they were going to come back to the hospital to visit us.
Off Jon goes. Eva and I were just hanging out at the hospital with my parents when Jon called.
Jack had a seizure at the Target.
They were in an ambulance on the way to Medical City where we are with Eva. Seriously, I do not know how my legs made it to the emergency room to meet the ambulance. Even now, it seems like a dream.
Turns out, in the world's cruelest coincidence, Jack had a febrile seizure for the first time because he had strep throat. We did a ct scan on him and that came back normal and also a chest xray. Jack is fine and at home with Dad tonight.
I thought that when I was there with Eva on Thursday, it was the worst point in being a parent. I did not know how it could be topped. Now, I will never doubt that things can just get worse. I'm not quite sure what God is testing me for but I swear, it has to be something really good.
I'm fine now but only for the grace of God and the wonderful nursing staff here at Medical City. They came in, picked me up from sobbing and hyper-ventilating on the floor, and guided my limp body to meet the ambulance.
Also, our wonderful pediatrician, Dr. Kennedy who came immediately upon hearing the news. She has been amazing to us and we would be so lost without her. By the way, Dr. Kennedy did correct me on an earlier post. She was NOT worried about brain damage to Eva from the seizure. She was worried about the fever. THAT is why we were here. I asked her forgiveness for my creative licensing! :)
A special shout out to Whit and Kelee for their help today in coming BACK to the hospital when I called them to tell them about Jack and for the delicious red wine I am drinking as we speak, thanks to Kelee. Unfortunately, the nurses could not arrange the IV margaritas I had requested, so this will have to do.
Thank you again for your calls and emails. Please forgive me if I am not quick to respond but I appreciate EVERYTHING!
And the hits just keep on coming....
ADDED BY JON ON SUNDAY:
Well, since Kristi experienced Eva Jane's seizure on Thursday, I suppose it was my turn on Saturday. All set for some Dad-Jack one-on-one time, we planned a trip to a couple of stores, lunch at our pub, and a trip to the hospital. Jack was hanging to me all morning, this being my first time back since I left for work on Thursday. He felt fine, and I attributed most of his behavior to our family situation.
As we headed to the checkout counter, Jack slumped over to the side of the cart and his eyes moved towards the ceiling. It looked as if he saw something interesting on the ceiling and was following it as I moved down the aisle. At the front, I said he needed to straighten up, lest I knock his head in the checkout line. Lifting him up, I thought he might be goofing off. But I immediately noticed he was warm, and his eyes were in the back of his head. At this point, no twitching or physical indications of a seizure. But I knew something was wrong.
I was standing next to a Target employee who asked if I needed help. I said, "I think my son is having a seizure." She called a few folks over. Then I saw some leg twitching and heard teeth clicking. The paramedics were called at my request. An unnamed male shopper with his two sons never identified himself as a doctor, but he stood about 10 feet away and would ask/say key things. "Has he ever had seizures before?" No. He then got the employees to get the paramedics.
I must say I was a rock through all of this. And the only reason is because I was a two-day veteran of the febrile seizure (never heard of it in my life before Thursday). Experience breeds confidence, I guess.
Our friend, Sara Wilson, who was quite familiar with our situation with Eva Jane, happened to be shopping and was standing near us. What must have been going on in her mind is beyond me. She was so kind to try to help.
Kudos to the Target lead at the desk. She calmly and quickly called 911.
The ambulance came very quickly. Within minutes we were in the ambulance. After some info passing and quick examination, we were heading to the hospital. Normally they transport to Presbyterian Hospital, but how many patients can say, "Would you please take us to Medical City since my wife and daughter are already there?" Off we went. My two disappointments: 1) Jack has no memory of our ride. 2) They didn't use the siren (and I was too chicken to ask).
Now the most dreaded of tasks: Calling Kristi. How in the hell do I tell her?
Another Nubbin Update
We just spoke with the doctor this morning. The bone scan also came back negative! That is just terrific news.
Bottom line is that we still do not know what it is but whatever it is, from less bad to really bad, we've caught it early enought that it has not spread anywhere else and I'll take it!
Thank you all so much for your continued emails and support!!!
Bottom line is that we still do not know what it is but whatever it is, from less bad to really bad, we've caught it early enought that it has not spread anywhere else and I'll take it!
Thank you all so much for your continued emails and support!!!
Friday, February 29, 2008
Nubbin Update
First, I want to thank you all for your calls, text messages, and emails. We are truly blessed.
Today, as I mentioned, we had some tests done. We had a bone scan, blood work and an abdomen and pelvic ct.
Earlier today, the blood work came back very good. Step one.
Tonight, we got the best news of all, the ct came back that there was no spreading! We're so happy!
We still have the bone scan to come back tomorrow morning so for now, we'll take what we can get!
Eva's surgery is scheduled for Monday. They will then determine what type of cancer it is and the course of treatment. I would like to send a special thank you to Michael/Whit and MJ for their guidance. We are so lucky to have you in our lives.
As I've been saying, we're not out of the woods but at least someone gave us a map. Please keep praying and thinking of her.
Today, as I mentioned, we had some tests done. We had a bone scan, blood work and an abdomen and pelvic ct.
Earlier today, the blood work came back very good. Step one.
Tonight, we got the best news of all, the ct came back that there was no spreading! We're so happy!
We still have the bone scan to come back tomorrow morning so for now, we'll take what we can get!
Eva's surgery is scheduled for Monday. They will then determine what type of cancer it is and the course of treatment. I would like to send a special thank you to Michael/Whit and MJ for their guidance. We are so lucky to have you in our lives.
As I've been saying, we're not out of the woods but at least someone gave us a map. Please keep praying and thinking of her.
My little Nubbin, Eva
This is a copy of the email I sent to our family and friends:
Yesterday, Eva had a fever so I took her to the dr. While I was there, she had a febrile seizure (which means it was related to her fever). I thought that was the scariest thing that could possibly happen to a parent.
Our doctor really wanted her to have a head ct just to be sure that there was no damage and to make sure it was a febrile tumor.
Off we went to Medical City hospital to the er. While we were there, the dr asked about other issues Eva might be having. I mentioned a cough so she ordered an xray. The head ct came back normal but they saw something they did not like on the chest xray. So, they did a chest ct.
They found a mass as large as her lungs behind her heart close to her spine. They admitted her immediately. We are still unsure exactly what it is.
After meeting with the Pediatric Oncologist this AM, they are going to do a full scan to make sure whatever it is has not spread anywhere else.
Once we get that news, then, we move on to surgery which will be either tomorrow or Monday. From there, and based on path reports, we know what our options are. Please, please, please keep Eva, Jack and the rest of our family in your prayers.
We will have a clearer picture in the next 24 hours as to what our options are with her. I will also be posting things on my blog.
Please keep her in your prayers,
Kristi
Yesterday, Eva had a fever so I took her to the dr. While I was there, she had a febrile seizure (which means it was related to her fever). I thought that was the scariest thing that could possibly happen to a parent.
Our doctor really wanted her to have a head ct just to be sure that there was no damage and to make sure it was a febrile tumor.
Off we went to Medical City hospital to the er. While we were there, the dr asked about other issues Eva might be having. I mentioned a cough so she ordered an xray. The head ct came back normal but they saw something they did not like on the chest xray. So, they did a chest ct.
They found a mass as large as her lungs behind her heart close to her spine. They admitted her immediately. We are still unsure exactly what it is.
After meeting with the Pediatric Oncologist this AM, they are going to do a full scan to make sure whatever it is has not spread anywhere else.
Once we get that news, then, we move on to surgery which will be either tomorrow or Monday. From there, and based on path reports, we know what our options are. Please, please, please keep Eva, Jack and the rest of our family in your prayers.
We will have a clearer picture in the next 24 hours as to what our options are with her. I will also be posting things on my blog.
Please keep her in your prayers,
Kristi
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Confession Tuesday
Happy Tuesday, everyone! Sorry for the delayed post. Have my first board meeting for work tomorrow and lots to prepare!
On to the confessions:
1) Yes, I lost the Oscars Contest this year. Badly. I only got 9 right on the whole evening. It was really sad.
2) I might keep the winners trophy for a bit before I mail it to Jana. Jon suggested that it might be a way for us to get Jana to come visit. That sounds pretty appealing.
3) Things I'm sick and tired of:
-That I know too much about Britney Spears/ Britney Spears' children/ Britney Spears' clothes/ Britney Spears' dogs/ Britney Spears' eating habits, blah blah blah
-Katherine Heigl--she just bugs me
-Donald Trump's hair
-Recordings of "famous" people who call my house to get me to support a certain candidate
-Paris Hilton--why is she still in the news?
4) Things I love (outside of the obvious friends and family answer):
-The Wire
-The smells of bacon and popcorn
-Singing karaoke in my den and in public--and I'm really bad!
-Project Runway
-Sleeping in
5) Our dishwasher went out a couple of months ago. After a comedy of errors on home shield's part, the parts finally came in this week. Two weeks ago, kitchen sink got plugged. We have had to wait forever! for a plumber to come so we have been taking our dishes to the bathroom sink to wash.
6) I got tired of washing dishes in my bathroom so I bought paper plates, bowls and plastic spoons. Am I environmentally friendly? No. Do I care? No. I'm not washing one more damn thing in my bathroom sink.
7) My little daughter Eva went to the doctor this week. The doctor told her that she was in the 25% in height and weight. 25%? I'm nearly 6 feet tall! Sigh. At least she's proportionate. I've nicknamed her "Nubbin" It might stick.
8) Jack likes to tell me how much he loves me all day long. It's a little game with us. I love you more than this and I love you more than that. Today, he told me that he loves me more than diapers. I don't know how I feel about that.
On to the confessions:
1) Yes, I lost the Oscars Contest this year. Badly. I only got 9 right on the whole evening. It was really sad.
2) I might keep the winners trophy for a bit before I mail it to Jana. Jon suggested that it might be a way for us to get Jana to come visit. That sounds pretty appealing.
3) Things I'm sick and tired of:
-That I know too much about Britney Spears/ Britney Spears' children/ Britney Spears' clothes/ Britney Spears' dogs/ Britney Spears' eating habits, blah blah blah
-Katherine Heigl--she just bugs me
-Donald Trump's hair
-Recordings of "famous" people who call my house to get me to support a certain candidate
-Paris Hilton--why is she still in the news?
4) Things I love (outside of the obvious friends and family answer):
-The Wire
-The smells of bacon and popcorn
-Singing karaoke in my den and in public--and I'm really bad!
-Project Runway
-Sleeping in
5) Our dishwasher went out a couple of months ago. After a comedy of errors on home shield's part, the parts finally came in this week. Two weeks ago, kitchen sink got plugged. We have had to wait forever! for a plumber to come so we have been taking our dishes to the bathroom sink to wash.
6) I got tired of washing dishes in my bathroom so I bought paper plates, bowls and plastic spoons. Am I environmentally friendly? No. Do I care? No. I'm not washing one more damn thing in my bathroom sink.
7) My little daughter Eva went to the doctor this week. The doctor told her that she was in the 25% in height and weight. 25%? I'm nearly 6 feet tall! Sigh. At least she's proportionate. I've nicknamed her "Nubbin" It might stick.
8) Jack likes to tell me how much he loves me all day long. It's a little game with us. I love you more than this and I love you more than that. Today, he told me that he loves me more than diapers. I don't know how I feel about that.
Monday, February 25, 2008
The Oscars-The Acceptance Speech
First, I'd like to thank the Academy for making very sensible choices for a change and thus handing me my first ever loss in the Oscars Contest. I'd like to thank my fellow participants for not seeing many of the movies and not only whooping my butt but crushing me completely. Finally, I'd like to thank my family for supporting me as I watched so many movies last year.
I am now the rightful owner of the "You Suck" award. Justly deserved, this year. But, next year, bowling trophy, you'll come back home.
I am now the rightful owner of the "You Suck" award. Justly deserved, this year. But, next year, bowling trophy, you'll come back home.
Sunday, February 24, 2008
Sunday Scribblings-Passion
It's Sunday morning of my Superbowl. It's Oscar time! As you can see from yesterday's post, today is a very big day for me and for my fellow contest participants (Sembra, O'Neil, Legaspi, you're going down!)
Jana at PoetMom wrote today about her passion for the movies. Besides my kids/family, movies are the thing that I am most passionate about.
For me, it started very young. I was 7 years old when the first Star Wars came out. We were at the beach at our house. My brother Gordie (age 9) and I were dropped off at the theatre to watch the movie. I remember how we thought my dad was the coolest person on the planet because when we begged him to let us see it again, he let us. I still remember so vividly how Gordie and I snuck back into the threatre with such giddy excitement. Now, as a parent, I think my dad must have been SOOO happy for the break! Of course, I still think he's the coolest person on the planet. :)
I saw Star Wars in the theatre 28 times. I'm not kidding. That movie was so amazing to me and started my love of the movies that continues today. When I'm stressed, I watch a movie. When I can't sleep, I'm up watching a movie. When I'm sick, I watch a movie. I love old movies, MGM musicals, Woody Allen flicks, there really isn't much I won't watch (well, save a few of the movies that are dreck that have come out in recent years....that is another topic).
As many of you know, until recently, I had not had a full-time 9-5 job in almost two years. During that time, most Fridays, I would do what I called "Double Feature Friday". I have a whole system worked out at a local theatre on how to watch one movie and then sneak into another one with no time wasted between shows. Bring my lunch and it's a day!
Yes, the 7 year old still lives inside of me.
I'm settling in early today for the night. My heart is racing. Will I win and get to keep my beloved trophy? Will I have my first-ever loss?
Let the games begin!
Jana at PoetMom wrote today about her passion for the movies. Besides my kids/family, movies are the thing that I am most passionate about.
For me, it started very young. I was 7 years old when the first Star Wars came out. We were at the beach at our house. My brother Gordie (age 9) and I were dropped off at the theatre to watch the movie. I remember how we thought my dad was the coolest person on the planet because when we begged him to let us see it again, he let us. I still remember so vividly how Gordie and I snuck back into the threatre with such giddy excitement. Now, as a parent, I think my dad must have been SOOO happy for the break! Of course, I still think he's the coolest person on the planet. :)
I saw Star Wars in the theatre 28 times. I'm not kidding. That movie was so amazing to me and started my love of the movies that continues today. When I'm stressed, I watch a movie. When I can't sleep, I'm up watching a movie. When I'm sick, I watch a movie. I love old movies, MGM musicals, Woody Allen flicks, there really isn't much I won't watch (well, save a few of the movies that are dreck that have come out in recent years....that is another topic).
As many of you know, until recently, I had not had a full-time 9-5 job in almost two years. During that time, most Fridays, I would do what I called "Double Feature Friday". I have a whole system worked out at a local theatre on how to watch one movie and then sneak into another one with no time wasted between shows. Bring my lunch and it's a day!
Yes, the 7 year old still lives inside of me.
I'm settling in early today for the night. My heart is racing. Will I win and get to keep my beloved trophy? Will I have my first-ever loss?
Let the games begin!
Saturday, February 23, 2008
The Oscars
I can't believe they are here! At long last, The Oscars are back on!
Many of you who know me know that The Oscars are a very special thing to me. Honestly, movies formed the basis of my friendship with Jana and Al, as we met while they worked at the movie theatre across the mall hallway from me when we were in high school.
If I remember correctly, which I usually don't, we saw our first Oscar's together in Jana's parent's basement in 1987. 21 years later, we still watch the Oscars together every year. With us in three different states, now, it is by telephone. Our phone calls start mid-afternoon with the arrivals. Who is there with whom? What are they wearing? Will Joan Rivers please shut up?!
Somewhere in the early to mid-90's, we added an Oscars contest. We also added our dearest Joseph to the mix. The trash talking usually starts when the noms are released as each of us throws down the gauntlet with our picks.
It is funny, this year, we've been relatively quiet. I guess with the writer's strike, it has been off our radar.
That said, it's soooo on! What is at stake, you ask, in the contest??? Well, it is quite possibly the most prized possession of our friendship, the Oscar's Trophy!
Here it is in its current and usual location, on my mantle. Yes, I am a multi-year champ! Last year, was my best ever year with me only missing three categories the entire evening.
When you lose, there is the "You Suck" award which I think that Alex has right now. I have never won the "You Suck" award. Jana, on the other hand, is a multi-year champ there! Ha ha!
How am I going to do this year? The picks are in and according to the spreadsheet Jana puts together every year, I'm either going to win big or lose big! Only the fine folks at PriceWaterhouseCoopers really know. For now, I'm still the reigning champ!
Good luck, my fellow contestants.
Many of you who know me know that The Oscars are a very special thing to me. Honestly, movies formed the basis of my friendship with Jana and Al, as we met while they worked at the movie theatre across the mall hallway from me when we were in high school.
If I remember correctly, which I usually don't, we saw our first Oscar's together in Jana's parent's basement in 1987. 21 years later, we still watch the Oscars together every year. With us in three different states, now, it is by telephone. Our phone calls start mid-afternoon with the arrivals. Who is there with whom? What are they wearing? Will Joan Rivers please shut up?!
Somewhere in the early to mid-90's, we added an Oscars contest. We also added our dearest Joseph to the mix. The trash talking usually starts when the noms are released as each of us throws down the gauntlet with our picks.
It is funny, this year, we've been relatively quiet. I guess with the writer's strike, it has been off our radar.
That said, it's soooo on! What is at stake, you ask, in the contest??? Well, it is quite possibly the most prized possession of our friendship, the Oscar's Trophy!
Here it is in its current and usual location, on my mantle. Yes, I am a multi-year champ! Last year, was my best ever year with me only missing three categories the entire evening.
When you lose, there is the "You Suck" award which I think that Alex has right now. I have never won the "You Suck" award. Jana, on the other hand, is a multi-year champ there! Ha ha!
How am I going to do this year? The picks are in and according to the spreadsheet Jana puts together every year, I'm either going to win big or lose big! Only the fine folks at PriceWaterhouseCoopers really know. For now, I'm still the reigning champ!
Good luck, my fellow contestants.
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
Confession Tuesday
1. Today is Wednesday. I'm a day behind. Last night, I had to bring some work home and after redoing a spreadsheet until 11:30pm, I was too tired to write.
2. We had a great trip to Disney. Honestly, more fun than either Jon or I thought we would have as adults. My parents took the kids on Friday for the whole day and Jon and I were off by ourselves. We felt like teenagers away from their parents. You can see us in action here and here.
3. I'm still trying to figure out how Disney can make trash cans have conversations with you. Disney magic, I guess. Probably my favorite moment of the trip had to be when Jack got into a foot race with a talking trash can. I swear, I wish I had video footage of that!
4. One of my great fears is having an elevator fall from the sky when I'm in it. Yes, I know this is irrational but aren't most fears irrational?
5. You can imagine how I felt on the Tower of Terror ride in MGM which is basically an elevator flinging you up and down over and over.
6. This is more advice than a confession but I would not recommend riding a ride that flings you up and down repeatedly after you've had an evening of drinking by the pool. I guess your stomach at nearly 38 is not what it used to be. Ok, maybe it is a confession.
7. Many folks push their kids to play sports that they could not play as youth, etc. For me, when Jack fought Darth Vader (see post below), he was living the 7 year old dream I had.
Addendum:
8. My friend Joseph sent me this link. This is absolutely hilarious (and true).
2. We had a great trip to Disney. Honestly, more fun than either Jon or I thought we would have as adults. My parents took the kids on Friday for the whole day and Jon and I were off by ourselves. We felt like teenagers away from their parents. You can see us in action here and here.
3. I'm still trying to figure out how Disney can make trash cans have conversations with you. Disney magic, I guess. Probably my favorite moment of the trip had to be when Jack got into a foot race with a talking trash can. I swear, I wish I had video footage of that!
4. One of my great fears is having an elevator fall from the sky when I'm in it. Yes, I know this is irrational but aren't most fears irrational?
5. You can imagine how I felt on the Tower of Terror ride in MGM which is basically an elevator flinging you up and down over and over.
6. This is more advice than a confession but I would not recommend riding a ride that flings you up and down repeatedly after you've had an evening of drinking by the pool. I guess your stomach at nearly 38 is not what it used to be. Ok, maybe it is a confession.
7. Many folks push their kids to play sports that they could not play as youth, etc. For me, when Jack fought Darth Vader (see post below), he was living the 7 year old dream I had.
Addendum:
8. My friend Joseph sent me this link. This is absolutely hilarious (and true).
Saturday, February 16, 2008
Jack Fights Lord Vader
You guys know we're in Disney World this week. We have had the most fabulous time. More on the trip later but I thought I would post this today for our family/friends so they can see Jack in action.
I have to say, these short videos below don't do it justice. Jack was certainly the comedic foil in the Jedi Training Academy's 9:40am training class at Disney's Hollywood (formerly MGM) Studios. He could not get his sword to open so the Jedi Master had to keep handing him his. He wandered off when they were all getting their swearing in as new recruits. He forgot to duck when he was in battle.
But, I was SO proud of him when he battled Darth Vader.
I have to say, these short videos below don't do it justice. Jack was certainly the comedic foil in the Jedi Training Academy's 9:40am training class at Disney's Hollywood (formerly MGM) Studios. He could not get his sword to open so the Jedi Master had to keep handing him his. He wandered off when they were all getting their swearing in as new recruits. He forgot to duck when he was in battle.
But, I was SO proud of him when he battled Darth Vader.
I swear, later we watched the video together and he said, "Mommy, did you see me beat Darth Vader??!!! Wasn't I great?!! I hit him SOOO hard!" That made this entire trip worthwhile.
Enjoy! (feel free to sing in your head... dum, dum, da dum, dum da dum, dum da dum)
Enjoy! (feel free to sing in your head... dum, dum, da dum, dum da dum, dum da dum)
Saturday, February 09, 2008
My First Race
"If you're not first, you're last" -Ricky Bobby
"And the last shall be first" -The Bible
"Slow and steady wins the race" -I don't know who said this
"No, it doesn't" -me
This morning, bright and early, I packed up my kids for my first 5K race in as many years. In desperate need to lose this weight I have put on, part of my new years resolution was to start participating in races again.
To that end, last week, I purchased a double jogger stroller, signed up for a 5K and off I went.
Here's my diary:
5 min into the race- Jack: "Mommy, why aren't we running? Let's run! We have to run! Why are all these people passing us? We're going slow!" Me: thought (why did I have you?)
1 mile-Oh My God, I'm only at ONE mile? I have three to go! Are there still people behind me? Wait, there is a man just behind me pushing his two-year old in an umbrella stroller, I can hear his squeaky wheel. I can take him.
1.1 mile-Jack: "I have to go potty" Me: "Jack, honey, there are no potties here, do you want to go in this field? You can go potty in one and a half hours when I finally finish this race, if you can hold it" Jack: "I can wait"
1.2 miles-Jack: "Mommy, I have to go potty" Me: "Jack, honey, still no potties. You can still go in this field if you need to." Jack: "I can wait"
1.5 mile turn around-Are you kidding me? There is no chip timer pad? I could have turned around at mile 1 and no one would have known????
1.6 miles-Jack: "Mommy, I'm hungry" Me fiddling in the basket looking for food while trying to keep 15 min mile pace: "Here's a candy bar (actually a Cliff bar but I doubt he'll notice)"
1.62 miles-Jack "Mommy, this candy bar tastes bad"
2 miles-Wait, I'm almost finished! Squeaky Wheels is still behind me! Besides him, I turn around and there are still four other people behind me out of 100 racers!
2.5 miles-Jack: "Mommy, I have to go potty" Me: "Jack, if you can hold it, there are special potties at the end of the race. I think they have toys in them!" Jack: "I can wait"
3 miles- 1/10 of a mile to go. Squeaky takes off running! Wait, Squeaky, we had a deal! You finish BEHIND me! I guess a random chubby chic pushing two children beating him was too much for his fragile ego. He finishes ahead of me.
3.1 miles-THE FINISH! 49 minutes! Not bad considering the fact that I'm pushing 65 lbs of children and it's my first race in as long as I can remember!
Me: "Ok, Jack, you can go potty" Jack: "No, I don't have to go now. Can I still have a toy at the special potties, though?"
So, there you have it. I finished my race AND in the top 96%. I'm well on my way. Notes for the future. Put Jack in pull ups before I leave the house.
"And the last shall be first" -The Bible
"Slow and steady wins the race" -I don't know who said this
"No, it doesn't" -me
This morning, bright and early, I packed up my kids for my first 5K race in as many years. In desperate need to lose this weight I have put on, part of my new years resolution was to start participating in races again.
To that end, last week, I purchased a double jogger stroller, signed up for a 5K and off I went.
Here's my diary:
5 min into the race- Jack: "Mommy, why aren't we running? Let's run! We have to run! Why are all these people passing us? We're going slow!" Me: thought (why did I have you?)
1 mile-Oh My God, I'm only at ONE mile? I have three to go! Are there still people behind me? Wait, there is a man just behind me pushing his two-year old in an umbrella stroller, I can hear his squeaky wheel. I can take him.
1.1 mile-Jack: "I have to go potty" Me: "Jack, honey, there are no potties here, do you want to go in this field? You can go potty in one and a half hours when I finally finish this race, if you can hold it" Jack: "I can wait"
1.2 miles-Jack: "Mommy, I have to go potty" Me: "Jack, honey, still no potties. You can still go in this field if you need to." Jack: "I can wait"
1.5 mile turn around-Are you kidding me? There is no chip timer pad? I could have turned around at mile 1 and no one would have known????
1.6 miles-Jack: "Mommy, I'm hungry" Me fiddling in the basket looking for food while trying to keep 15 min mile pace: "Here's a candy bar (actually a Cliff bar but I doubt he'll notice)"
1.62 miles-Jack "Mommy, this candy bar tastes bad"
2 miles-Wait, I'm almost finished! Squeaky Wheels is still behind me! Besides him, I turn around and there are still four other people behind me out of 100 racers!
2.5 miles-Jack: "Mommy, I have to go potty" Me: "Jack, if you can hold it, there are special potties at the end of the race. I think they have toys in them!" Jack: "I can wait"
3 miles- 1/10 of a mile to go. Squeaky takes off running! Wait, Squeaky, we had a deal! You finish BEHIND me! I guess a random chubby chic pushing two children beating him was too much for his fragile ego. He finishes ahead of me.
3.1 miles-THE FINISH! 49 minutes! Not bad considering the fact that I'm pushing 65 lbs of children and it's my first race in as long as I can remember!
Me: "Ok, Jack, you can go potty" Jack: "No, I don't have to go now. Can I still have a toy at the special potties, though?"
So, there you have it. I finished my race AND in the top 96%. I'm well on my way. Notes for the future. Put Jack in pull ups before I leave the house.
Tuesday, February 05, 2008
Confession Tuesday-Mardi Gras Style!
It's that time of the week, again! Confession Tuesday! I know that my father (Happy Birthday, Daddy) would be so pleased if I ACTUALLY went to confession but for now, this will have to do!
First, Happy Mardi Gras!
In keeping with this wonderful tradition, it thought I would theme my confessional based on the Krewes.
Rex-The King-So, the king of beers won again with the Superbowl ads. My confession is that "Bud Light, Suck One" is my new favorite phrase.
du Vieux-The Bawdy, Bad Boys-Speaking of bad boys, Jack got sent home AGAIN today! Ugh, what is wrong with my child????? I'm really depressed about it.
Pegasus-The Winged Horse-We're off to Disney on Sunday morning for a week for Jack's 4th birthday. Since I've been flying so much with the kids by myself, I really want to sit in first class, sip Bloody Mary's and leave Jon in the back with the children. Is that wrong?
Muses-The Inspiration-I have not been too inspired recently. I don't know if it is the new job or the fact that I'm too tired to read anything but I'm really ready for something to kick start my brain.
Shangri-La-Paradise-Friday night, I heard a big thump on the house around 2a. I got up on Saturday morning only to find that a tree had fallen on the house in the middle of the night. My confession is that I'm really hoping it did some major damage because I had wanted to remodel that part of the house for sometime.
Barkus-The Pet Parade-I hate cats. No, I really hate cats. I once told a neighbor in Virginia that I was allergic so that I did not have to pet her cat.
Orpheus-God of Music-Jon bought me Bon Jovi tickets for Christmas and I know for a fact that there are only 69 more days until the concert. I'm more excited than I can say.
Bacccus-Greek God of Wine-We had some friends over on Saturday night. So, after umpteen margaritas and two bottles of wine which my girlfriend and I mostly polished off ourselves, when they left I actually opened ANOTHER bottle of wine. I could not find a glass (??) so I ended up drinking most of it from the bottle. Yes, like the winos on the street. All that was missing was a paper bag.
Laissez les bon temps rouler!
First, Happy Mardi Gras!
In keeping with this wonderful tradition, it thought I would theme my confessional based on the Krewes.
Rex-The King-So, the king of beers won again with the Superbowl ads. My confession is that "Bud Light, Suck One" is my new favorite phrase.
du Vieux-The Bawdy, Bad Boys-Speaking of bad boys, Jack got sent home AGAIN today! Ugh, what is wrong with my child????? I'm really depressed about it.
Pegasus-The Winged Horse-We're off to Disney on Sunday morning for a week for Jack's 4th birthday. Since I've been flying so much with the kids by myself, I really want to sit in first class, sip Bloody Mary's and leave Jon in the back with the children. Is that wrong?
Muses-The Inspiration-I have not been too inspired recently. I don't know if it is the new job or the fact that I'm too tired to read anything but I'm really ready for something to kick start my brain.
Shangri-La-Paradise-Friday night, I heard a big thump on the house around 2a. I got up on Saturday morning only to find that a tree had fallen on the house in the middle of the night. My confession is that I'm really hoping it did some major damage because I had wanted to remodel that part of the house for sometime.
Barkus-The Pet Parade-I hate cats. No, I really hate cats. I once told a neighbor in Virginia that I was allergic so that I did not have to pet her cat.
Orpheus-God of Music-Jon bought me Bon Jovi tickets for Christmas and I know for a fact that there are only 69 more days until the concert. I'm more excited than I can say.
Bacccus-Greek God of Wine-We had some friends over on Saturday night. So, after umpteen margaritas and two bottles of wine which my girlfriend and I mostly polished off ourselves, when they left I actually opened ANOTHER bottle of wine. I could not find a glass (??) so I ended up drinking most of it from the bottle. Yes, like the winos on the street. All that was missing was a paper bag.
Laissez les bon temps rouler!
Monday, February 04, 2008
Dance Wars
Is anyone watching this show but me? If you are not watching, you should. Yes, the name is stupid. Yes, the fake tension between Carrie Ann and Bruno is stupid. Yes, Carrie Ann needs a new wardrobe. But, these people are the most talented folks on TV. They have to sing and dance like crazy.
That said, why does Team Bruno keep losing? They are leaps and bounds better than Team Carrie Ann. AND they seem to be having more fun! I know that there is often "creative editing" with "reality" TV but she seems kind of harsh! Bruno's team seems to be working really hard but laughing the whole time. They are a far more cohesive team.
I think if they were to do this show again, they should cut out the fake tension. Once the teams start to perform, they really are amazing. Also, maybe only make it an hour?
Oh, and they finally fell victim to the Dancing with the Stars cross promotion with the new Bachelor. Yet another cute boy heading into a failed relationship.
Any thoughts?
Thursday, January 31, 2008
Red Paint
Why is it that when children decide to break into paint to paint your walls, they always, always, always pick the bright red paint?
I came home from work tonight at 8:30pm, completely exhausted from my first week at my new job and my first full-time job in nearly two years only to find Jack covered in bright red paint.
I went down the hallway and there it was.
A red-striped wall.
A red-striped door.
Red paint on my couch.
Red paint everywhere.
My first inclination, of course, was to throttle him. Thankfully for his little neck, I had just come from a Y function where people had talked about how the Y had changed their lives when they had nothing. So, since I had a house and food on the table, I had been feeling pretty blessed.
Then I saw the red paint.
Though my clinched teeth, I said, "Jack, honey, why did you paint my walls?" He looked at me with those giant brown eyes and said, "But Mommy, I wanted to make the wall beautiful for you! Isn't it beautiful?"
Ugh.
I came home from work tonight at 8:30pm, completely exhausted from my first week at my new job and my first full-time job in nearly two years only to find Jack covered in bright red paint.
I went down the hallway and there it was.
A red-striped wall.
A red-striped door.
Red paint on my couch.
Red paint everywhere.
My first inclination, of course, was to throttle him. Thankfully for his little neck, I had just come from a Y function where people had talked about how the Y had changed their lives when they had nothing. So, since I had a house and food on the table, I had been feeling pretty blessed.
Then I saw the red paint.
Though my clinched teeth, I said, "Jack, honey, why did you paint my walls?" He looked at me with those giant brown eyes and said, "But Mommy, I wanted to make the wall beautiful for you! Isn't it beautiful?"
Ugh.
Monday, January 28, 2008
Confession Tuesday
Here we are, again, another week! I have not posted much this week because I was off with my family in NC. Had a great time even with half of the family going down one by one with a stomach bug. Not my kids or me so all is well! (I guess my poor sister who had to clean up after four sick people in her house is probably be throwing darts at a photo of me right now!)
Ok, and we're off!
1. I'm actually writing this on Monday night. I started my new job today so I don't know how much inspiration or time I will have tomorrow.
2. I love my new DVR. What did I do before it? Do I need fifteen minutes to get supper on? Jack, here's Fireman Sam for ya! No need to get a tape out or deal with the fact that there are multiple episodes on the tape. Just fifteen minutes of quiet bliss.
3. I need to get into shape...bad. Have this whole new plan in my head for the new year but have eaten Mexican food three meals in two days. Ugh. Guess I'll get going "next week".
4. I had to sign and HR document today that said that I would not swear at work. Sh*t! What am I going to do now??!!
Happy Tuesday!
Ok, and we're off!
1. I'm actually writing this on Monday night. I started my new job today so I don't know how much inspiration or time I will have tomorrow.
2. I love my new DVR. What did I do before it? Do I need fifteen minutes to get supper on? Jack, here's Fireman Sam for ya! No need to get a tape out or deal with the fact that there are multiple episodes on the tape. Just fifteen minutes of quiet bliss.
3. I need to get into shape...bad. Have this whole new plan in my head for the new year but have eaten Mexican food three meals in two days. Ugh. Guess I'll get going "next week".
4. I had to sign and HR document today that said that I would not swear at work. Sh*t! What am I going to do now??!!
Happy Tuesday!
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
Suzanne Varela Hastings
I just got an email a few minutes ago that a childhood friend of mine, Suzie Varela (Hastings) passed away last night of breast cancer.
Suzie and I were friends in the earliest part of my life. Her father and my father were friends. Don Varela was the pastor of a christain community we used to belong to. Suzie, her sister Charmaine, David and Clint Hunt, my brother Gordie and I used to pal around together all the time.
I remember Suzie as a beatiful ray of light. She was hilarious.
My two strongest memories of her were strange in their opposites. I remember a trip to Nags Head that she took with my family (that's where the pictures came from) and I remember that we were in a car accident together when we were 12. Suzie and I had spent the night at an elderly couple who were friends of my parent's house. We were on our way home from church when a girl was drag racing with her brother. I was knocked out and when I came to, Suzie's head was in my lap (still attached, of course). She had cut it with a coffee can of fresh flowers. Wow, such vivid memories. The four of us were fine. I crushed vertebrae in my back but have been just fine. Everyone else had minor cuts and bruises.
I found out about Suzie's breast cancer just a week or so ago. She was diagnosed with it just weeks after she buried her father from a heart attack. It reminded me that I had not seen or heard of her in over 20 years. She had gotten married young and had kids young and I guess we lost touch.
I'll still always remember that trip to Nags Head, Christian skating and those (I can't believe my parents made me go) Halloween parties.
God bless you, Suzie. God bless the Varela and Hastings families.
Confession Tuesday
Here are my thoughts for the week:
1. Instead of watching the debate on TV last night, I watched "Dance Wars." Admittedly, I did flip back and forth in the commercials, but MAN most of those folks on "Dance Wars" are talented!
2. Speaking of reality shows, I was in a bar on Sunday evening and a group of folks from the show, "So, You Think You Can Dance" were working on their casting lists at the next table for the upcoming season. Guess they did a call in Dallas? Anyway, as I walked past them, I burst into the "Running Man" to their hysterical laughter.
3. Ok, I really didn't dance in front of them but wouldn't that have been a hilarious story if I did?
4. I wake up each morning with a song in my head. Usually, it is from a musical or a TV show theme song. It is strange, though, that my subconscious seems to know what kind of day I'm going to have as that seems to set the tone for the day. Hairspray? Good day. Les Mis? Well, I'm not so sure.
5. Today, I woke up with the theme song from "Cheers" in my head. I don't know what that means.
6. I'm off to my parent's house tomorrow. I'm so excited to see everyone, especially my grandfather, Dyda. That said, I'm secretly most excited to have a bowl of Brunswick stew from Smithfield BBQ.
7. I'm sitting at home right now waiting for a representative of the US Navy to come to my house for me to serve as a "character reference" for a good friend of mine. A work colleague told me that she did it once and they asked her lots of questions about herself. For some reason, I'm really nervous.
How about you guys???
1. Instead of watching the debate on TV last night, I watched "Dance Wars." Admittedly, I did flip back and forth in the commercials, but MAN most of those folks on "Dance Wars" are talented!
2. Speaking of reality shows, I was in a bar on Sunday evening and a group of folks from the show, "So, You Think You Can Dance" were working on their casting lists at the next table for the upcoming season. Guess they did a call in Dallas? Anyway, as I walked past them, I burst into the "Running Man" to their hysterical laughter.
3. Ok, I really didn't dance in front of them but wouldn't that have been a hilarious story if I did?
4. I wake up each morning with a song in my head. Usually, it is from a musical or a TV show theme song. It is strange, though, that my subconscious seems to know what kind of day I'm going to have as that seems to set the tone for the day. Hairspray? Good day. Les Mis? Well, I'm not so sure.
5. Today, I woke up with the theme song from "Cheers" in my head. I don't know what that means.
6. I'm off to my parent's house tomorrow. I'm so excited to see everyone, especially my grandfather, Dyda. That said, I'm secretly most excited to have a bowl of Brunswick stew from Smithfield BBQ.
7. I'm sitting at home right now waiting for a representative of the US Navy to come to my house for me to serve as a "character reference" for a good friend of mine. A work colleague told me that she did it once and they asked her lots of questions about herself. For some reason, I'm really nervous.
How about you guys???
Murder Unscripted
For those who are going to miss their Law and Order (that means, you, Jana!) A peek into your future...
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
Tonight's American Idol
Tonight, I was putting Jack to bed. When I got back in the den, Jon had turned on American Idol.
Truth be told, I like American Idol OK once they get to Hollywood but even still don't watch it too much. But I have never felt comfortable with the audition portion of the "competition". I thought it was just kind of mean. That said, people are adults and if they want to look ridiculous on tv, well, that's their choice.
So, back to tonight. When I walked into the room, they had someone called "Douglas" singing (my happy karaoke tune) "Livin' on a Prayer" by Bon Jovi. They first interviewed him where he said that his father "hates him". This poor person very CLEARLY was mentally unstable. He was walking around in circles and singing off key while Paula, Randy and Simon just sat there and told him he was a bad singer.
I nearly cried. This poor person had Asbergers or some other disorder and it was like the cool kids in school making fun of the poor mentally challenged kid by making him do stupid "tricks" for their amusement.
Now, I know that some producer chooses the best and the worst for the three of them to see. But, that segment should have NEVER been allowed to air.
For a show that claims to be a "family" show, what lessons are we teaching our children? It's OK to laugh at people who are different?
Shame on you, American Idol. Someone there should have had more compassion.
Truth be told, I like American Idol OK once they get to Hollywood but even still don't watch it too much. But I have never felt comfortable with the audition portion of the "competition". I thought it was just kind of mean. That said, people are adults and if they want to look ridiculous on tv, well, that's their choice.
So, back to tonight. When I walked into the room, they had someone called "Douglas" singing (my happy karaoke tune) "Livin' on a Prayer" by Bon Jovi. They first interviewed him where he said that his father "hates him". This poor person very CLEARLY was mentally unstable. He was walking around in circles and singing off key while Paula, Randy and Simon just sat there and told him he was a bad singer.
I nearly cried. This poor person had Asbergers or some other disorder and it was like the cool kids in school making fun of the poor mentally challenged kid by making him do stupid "tricks" for their amusement.
Now, I know that some producer chooses the best and the worst for the three of them to see. But, that segment should have NEVER been allowed to air.
For a show that claims to be a "family" show, what lessons are we teaching our children? It's OK to laugh at people who are different?
Shame on you, American Idol. Someone there should have had more compassion.
A Five-Year-Old Explains the Writers Strike
Saw this on another blog. This pretty much explains what I know about the writer's strike.
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
Confession Tuesday
Ok, Jana presented a challenge and I'm going to take a swing. Let's see how this goes.
Jana has started her blog list of "confession Tuesdays" for quite sometime. I do really enjoy them. So, here I go:
-I just ate three girl scout cookies (samoas that I had put in the freezer yesterday, to get them just right). We got a shipment at the office because we are a newspaper and they want us to write about how great they are. Ok, mission accomplished.
-I quit my job today. I guess this is not quite a confession but I just got a great job at the YMCA of Dallas and I can't wait to start even though I will miss it here (and especially the advance girl scout cookies!)
-I'm really sad we don't have snow here. It sure would be nice for a couple of days of really cold weather when I could take the kids out to throw snowballs. Then, I want it to get to 75 degrees immediately.
-This morning at the hair salon when he was coloring my gigantic patches of grey hair, I read an US Weekly cover to cover.
Any confessions for you???
Jana has started her blog list of "confession Tuesdays" for quite sometime. I do really enjoy them. So, here I go:
-I just ate three girl scout cookies (samoas that I had put in the freezer yesterday, to get them just right). We got a shipment at the office because we are a newspaper and they want us to write about how great they are. Ok, mission accomplished.
-I quit my job today. I guess this is not quite a confession but I just got a great job at the YMCA of Dallas and I can't wait to start even though I will miss it here (and especially the advance girl scout cookies!)
-I'm really sad we don't have snow here. It sure would be nice for a couple of days of really cold weather when I could take the kids out to throw snowballs. Then, I want it to get to 75 degrees immediately.
-This morning at the hair salon when he was coloring my gigantic patches of grey hair, I read an US Weekly cover to cover.
Any confessions for you???
Tuesday, January 08, 2008
Ah, the Writer's Strike
Well, I have to say that I have been completely numb to the effects of the writers strike. I have my favorite shows (too many, actually) but took the break as an opportunity to check off the first thing on my New Year's resolution list, read more.
I'm doing that but I've also ramped up my first love, movies. Jon and I snuck out and saw five movies over the holidays.
Quick review:
Atonement-Very similar to English Patient. I loved it but you have to like sweeping war/romance/period dramas. If so, this is your movie!
Charlie Wilson's War-Very interesting and entertaining. Julia Roberts bugged me, though. I live in Texas and her accent sounded like she was channeling her Olympia Dukakis co-star of Steel Magnolias. I kept waiting for her to say, "Now, Cha-lie, you KNOW I love ya more 'n my luggage!"
I am Legend-Ok, I admit it, I'm a sucker for Will Smith. 'Nuff said.
Juno-Loved it.
PS, I Love You-I can't believe that I just wrote that I saw that dreck.
Anyway, back to the writers strike. They have canceled the Golden Globes.
To me, this is like canceling the football playoffs before the Super Bowl of the Oscars. I have two nights where Jon just KNOWS to take the kids away. The Golden Globes and the Oscars. For the past 20 years, I park in front of the tv from about 5pm on. Jana, Al, Joseph and I make phone calls all night long to each other. We discuss who is wearing what, who we think is going to win, do we think this will lead to an Oscar, etc. We get our ballots together for our now legendary Oscars contest.
This is the start of my Oscar season!
Damn, you writer's strike! Damn, you fat cats, pay those poor starving writers. I need to see what Nicole Kidman is wearing!
I'm taking you guys on. This time, it's personal.
I'm doing that but I've also ramped up my first love, movies. Jon and I snuck out and saw five movies over the holidays.
Quick review:
Atonement-Very similar to English Patient. I loved it but you have to like sweeping war/romance/period dramas. If so, this is your movie!
Charlie Wilson's War-Very interesting and entertaining. Julia Roberts bugged me, though. I live in Texas and her accent sounded like she was channeling her Olympia Dukakis co-star of Steel Magnolias. I kept waiting for her to say, "Now, Cha-lie, you KNOW I love ya more 'n my luggage!"
I am Legend-Ok, I admit it, I'm a sucker for Will Smith. 'Nuff said.
Juno-Loved it.
PS, I Love You-I can't believe that I just wrote that I saw that dreck.
Anyway, back to the writers strike. They have canceled the Golden Globes.
To me, this is like canceling the football playoffs before the Super Bowl of the Oscars. I have two nights where Jon just KNOWS to take the kids away. The Golden Globes and the Oscars. For the past 20 years, I park in front of the tv from about 5pm on. Jana, Al, Joseph and I make phone calls all night long to each other. We discuss who is wearing what, who we think is going to win, do we think this will lead to an Oscar, etc. We get our ballots together for our now legendary Oscars contest.
This is the start of my Oscar season!
Damn, you writer's strike! Damn, you fat cats, pay those poor starving writers. I need to see what Nicole Kidman is wearing!
I'm taking you guys on. This time, it's personal.
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