Halloween 2009

The display on my kitchen table...thanks to PartyLite!

Waiting for Jake at Trick-or-Trunk. I was a "She-Devil". You just can't see the horns.

Jake and I carved "scary" pumpkins this year. His is the vampire on the left. Mine the creepy one on the right. It was fun...another October coming to a close. Tomorrow is the whole kit and kaboodle. More pics to follow. Jake is into being "scary" this year. I'm not thrilled with his costume but he LOVES it...Sigh. It's amazing what you do to keep your kid happy!! LOL!! More tomorrow after the tricks and treats! :)

School, Scouts, & Sun

Well...I haven't had much to complain about which is why you haven't heard from me! :) Just kidding...I know I complain a lot (especially about the weather) but I am trying to get better about that! So, I will begin this post by saying all my earlier whining paid off. The rain went away for a while and we've had STUNNING fall weather. Today it was so warm I could have gone for a walk without a coat. It was just unbelievable. We did have our first "frost" the other morning but it warmed up and has been sunny and beautiful. I can't remember such a nice October and it was so nice to finish up our soccer season on such a dry note. Speaking of which, soccer was over a week ago. We came in 4th out of 6th. We'll take it!! We were all ready to be done but look forward to next season. Not sure if we'll coach or not but I am excited about seeing the kids and watching the games again.

Jacob has been playing "catch up" at school. About 2 weeks ago he brought home a progress report that was less than stellar. His dad has been working very hard at helping Jake make up assignments. He's perfectly capable of getting good grades (as you already know) but has just been a little "preoccupied" with other things. We have a parent-teacher conference coming up so we will get to the bottom of it. Part of it is just staying on top of him and making sure things are getting done and turned in on time. Sigh...when does the micro-managing end????

Work is VERY busy right now. I am in the middle of an audit and it's making things extra crazy. I did get some good news yesterday, however, and that is the fact that we won't be taking over the other mental health agency in town. Not sure if this is public knowledge or not but I'm sure the word is out by now. This is such a relief...I can't even begin to explain how hard it would have been for our entire agency to take on such an endeavor. I am very relieved that I can now move forward and put all that worry and angst behind me. I, for one, was not thrilled with the idea from the get-go. But that's just ME...and the older I get the less I like change. Enough said.

So, I'm not doing well at getting back on my diet!! Every day I try...perhaps it's time to get back on the scale. I know I will do it...of that I have no doubt. I've even finally made an effort to eat lowfat yogurt in order to have another option when I want something "yummy". I've never been a yogurt eater...never liked it. Well...I have discovered "Yoplait". It's been fun discovering all the flavors...Orange Cream and Blueberry are my fave. Lemon is good, too. I feel like I'm really getting something naughty when I eat it...and that's the whole idea people!! When you are trying to be good...you have to find ways to trick your mind into thinking you are being "bad". It's mind over matter when trying to lose weight.

Well...I better go. It's getting late. The last few mornings have come very early and tomorrow won't be any different. If we could get just a few extra hours a day...wouldn't that be awesome?!? Oh...what are y'all watching these days???? One of my faves is Biggest Loser as you know. OMGosh...can you EVEN believe they didn't vote off Tracy last night??? I am still having a fit over that one...SIGH. That woman brings out the ugly in me!!!!!!!!!

Night, Y'all........Love, Nan XOX

Snotty

There are TWO types of forecasts for this area...I am convinced. It's either "snotty" (which isn't the word I *really* want to use but it's a little more "appropriate" for this blog) or there's "not snotty". Seriously, THIS is what we've gone back and forth with for what seems like a while now and to be quite frank...I am OVER it already. We've had at least 3 (THREE!) storms rip thru here with "gale force" winds in like the last week. This *is* still September, right? October didn't sneak up on us without me knowing it, did it?? Hmpf! So much for the "indian summer" I thought we might be lucky enough to get!! Thankfully, however, we are "in-between" snotty at the moment and hopefully (Dear Lord, PLEASE!) it holds off for our soccer game tonight. I am sleep deprived and cranky and really don't feel like standing in a monsoon tonight. And I'm SURE the kids don't want to play in that (excuse my language) CRAP either! So...there it is. What was I thinking when I said "I think I may just be used to it" in one of my earlier blogs?!? You *CAN'T* get used to it...EVER. I don't care HOW long you've been here in SE Alaska. It's been almost 20 years for me and I still HATE it. Now I see why people take off this time of year and go on vacation. It's to extend their summer just a WEE bit longer. Sigh....

Anyway, on a happier note (and I hope she doesn't mind me spilling this on here) but I got some very exciting news two nights ago. My baby sister, Crystal, called me just before I left work on Wednesday. My radar for bad news went up immediately since she doesn't call me that often and it wasn't very long ago that she called when my mom collapsed at work. Sooo...I was on edge instantly when she said she had some "serious" news. Well...SILLY ME!! She was calling to say that her boyfriend of 5 years has finally given her a ring and has asked "the question" she's been waiting for. Yes...she is ENGAGED!!!!!!! She has decided on a summer 2010 "outdoor" wedding and I am thrilled for her. I'm also thrilled for ME (and isn't it all really about *me* anyway? Don't answer that!) cuz that gives ME an excuse to go home next summer (not that I need one but you get my drift!!) LOL!! Since I'm travelling to see everyone in December I really didn't have a plan to make the trip again next summer....well there ya go!! Sometimes you just get "lucky" and fate steps in. :) Who am I kidding, tho? I don't believe in fate. It's a blessing from above and I am ALL OVER IT!! Oh...I left out one little thing, however. DO YOU REALIZE WHAT THIS MEANS????? Yep...have to break up with bacon again. It is seriously time to get even MORE serious about losing this weight. Most of you probably don't know this but when my brother got married in 2005...Y'all...it was a SAD, SAD sight to see at the mall. Let me tell you...I was there for HOURS looking for something cute too wear. Need I say more? Yes...I need to say MORE....let me fill you in. There is NOTHING cute for a fat girl to wear at the MALL. No...I don't care what you say...THERE ISN'T. I ended up going back to Nordstrom and buying something I didn't even like that well and spending WAY too much money for it. It was a very depressing time for me and I REFUSE to go thru that again. Seriously...I *WILL* be cute at Crystal's wedding if it kills me. Let me send a shout out to my future BIL, John!! THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH for kicking it into high gear, buddy. GOD BLESS YOU!!!!!!!!!

OK..I am getting out of control. I need to go. Time for a *healthy* snack. I feel my blood sugar dropping. I will say, tho, that I survived the home-buyer's class. It was very good but I am exhausted. We have our game tonight at 5pm then I'm going home, eating a salad and then CRASHING on the couch. I have two hours of TV to watch (Grey's Anatomy...can't wait!!) but then it is off to bed EARLY. We have a game Saturday at 10am I need to be sharp for. Please, Please God...let us have some sunshine on Saturday!! Heck...I'd even settle for "not snotty". Thank you and Amen. :)

Happy Friday everyone!!!!!! Nan XOX

Please Support Scouting!

Here's the website you can click on to support Jacob and the Cub Scouts. I hope it works! Happy Shopping and Thank You very much in advance! :)

TTFN~ Nan

http://www.trails-end.com/estore/home_alt.jsp?_requestid=242804

The Whining Has Begun

Rain, Rain, GO AWAY!!! I mean, enough already! I am all for the cooler temps etc. but does it really have to rain so much all of a sudden? Guess this is pay-back for all the sunshine this summer. It was absolutely howling outside night before last but then it cleared up yesterday (just in time for soccer practice, Thank God!) but then it went right back to being nasty today. Hmpf! The commute to work was just awful! I didn't even want to stop and get the mail. Yuck!! Seriously!!! I told you I was whiney!! Oh!! And it doesn't help to hear that it's like 80 in Seattle and 90 in Portland. Not fair!!

Anyway, the rain here is nothing new. But what to talk about then? Let's see...last night was our last soccer practice. With cooler temps and lots of rain lately we are not sad about it in the least. We have two more regular games...one on Friday and one Saturday. Then the tournament begins we believe next week. I think I mentioned that it's a double elimination so we have at least two games to play in the tourney. I hope we win a few more but that would drag out the season so there's some mixed feelings there. We'll see what happens. :)

Tonight I start a two evening class to learn about all things "mortgage". It's put on by the Alaska Housing Financial Corp (or something to that effect) and it goes from 6pm to 10pm. I am looking at 2 very long days (ugh!) It will be worth it, tho, and in the long run when it does come time to buy a house (if we go thru AHFC) it will be a requirement to take it. May as well just get it done now, right? I am sure I am going to learn a lot and I am excited. I'm also very excited at the idea of owning our own home sooner rather than later. I'm thinking next year...we'll see. The rates are so low right now...maybe it will happen sooner than we think. You never know. Perm fund checks come out next month so we will have a little "nest egg" saved in the event we need closing costs. We will be finding out tonight (or more than likely in tomorrow's paper) how much the PFD is. I'm not expecting it to be very high considering how badly the market's been doing but we'll see. Anything is better than nothing. :)

Today is picture day at school. Jake wanted to wear his cub scout shirt but I wasn't sure if that was/is allowed so I made him wear something else. I didn't have time to iron it anyway so it didn't work out. How lame am I? My boy is so proud to be a Cub Scout and I can't get up early enough to iron a shirt for crying out loud! I promised him, however, that we would take some pictures on our own and post them for everyone. Which reminds me...have you ordered some popcorn yet? You can do it online. I'll have to get that website on here since I can't seem to remember it off the top of my head. I'll get it up and running....promise!!! Some of you already let me know that you'd like to order and I promise we WILL be coming by...probably this weekend so dust off your checkbooks!! :)

Well...that's about it for now. I don't think this was a whole lot of "new" info but thought I'd touch base anyway. I know my family likes to keep close tabs on us so there ya go mom and dad!! (Oh...and Rick!!) Love you guys!!!!!!!

Happy Wednesday! Love, Nanette XOX

Hello Fall...Nice to See Ya!

And welcome back if you are reading this blog! :) As I predicted, the weekend flew by and it is now Monday once again. I worked the front desk on Thursday and Friday so I am now catching up on work that went by the wayside last week. Never a dull moment around here! Anyway, the weekend was busy just like I knew it would be. It also poured down rain almost the entire weekend. Friday night our kids played a 5pm soccer game in the POURING down rain. We managed to win our second game, however, so that made up for it. We weren't so lucky on Saturday at our 10am game. We didn't get "killed", however, so that was a bonus. The last time we played this particular team they creamed us 8-0. I think it was 4-1 this time. Not too bad!! We are getting down to the end of the season also so that just shows how much we've improved.

Saturday (after the game) after a short time at home, Jake and I headed to Alec's birthday party at the lake. The rain stopped just long enough to grill some burgers and dogs. The kids had fun looking at the rotting salmon on the shore of the lake (they come up the creek and spawn.) They were especially grossed out by the maggots feeding on them. I told the boys they better toughen up if they were grossed out by that! LOL!! Anyway, there was a little excitement at the party when a black bear got a little too close for comfort. Jodie's dog was there and chased him away but he still hung out just where we could see him. We figured he was waiting for us to leave so he could get his paws on that rotting salmon with the maggots...Yum!! :)

After the party, Jake was still up for skating. Off to the Rec Center we went where Jake worked on his skating skills and I walked the track. Did my usual 3 miles and worked up a sweat. Before we knew it it was time to head out. Back home we went. Just long enough for me to get cleaned up and then it was off to Bob & Bev's for dinner. We had a little "belated" birthday celebration for Shirley (her bday is Sept. 7th). Great dinner and company followed by a very yummy, chocolate cake and vanilla ice-cream (so much for the walk!!). I was exhausted by this point and Jake and I left pretty early. That was enough (too much) for me for one day!! :)

Sunday was very laid back. My BFF was/is in town and I was going to hook up with her but I didn't hear from her. It was absolutely storming outside!! I ended up getting laundry going then headed to town to get groceries. It was a soggy day that's for sure! Fall is definitley here...no doubt about it. I saw someone post on FB that we've had over 9 inches of rain in September already!! I believe it!! Woo Hoo!!! No more worries about water for a while....that's always nice. :) You just HAVE to find the silver lining or you'll go crazy around here!!

The days are getting very short already...I woke at 5:46am yesterday and it was pitch black outside. I was shocked! It is happening more rapidly then I'd realized. I'm not usually up before 7am sooooo....I hadn't a clue! LOL!

OK...I'd better get back to work. Busy week this week. Soccer tomorrow, Scouts on Thursday, Soccer game on Friday. In between all that I am taking a 2-day "class" on Wed. & Thurs. It's a class put on by Alaska Housing....it's a requirement when you buy a house here with an Alaska Housing loan. I want to be prepared in the event we find something to buy. I am always looking. :) That $8000 tax credit sure would be nice!

Have a great week everyone! Nanette XOX

P.S. My love affair with bacon is back on!! Sigh....some things I just can't resist! :)

Downhill Slide

It's Tuesday night. Tomorrow is Wednesday...duh! Where am I going with this? Well, what I'm getting at is how fast time goes and before we know it the weekend will be here. Yep...it will. I promise! :)

We are definitely into fall here with a nice little windstorm at soccer practice to prove it. It was really kicking up and I figured we were in for a very blustery night but it seems to have calmed down out there now. We'll see what happens. I know there is no sunshine in the forecast any time soon (we were lucky to see some on Sunday) so it's probably rain from here on out for a while. This doesn't really bother me for some reason. I think I'm so looking forward to the tourists being gone that the fact I am looking at rain, wind and darkness for the next 6 months doesn't even phase me. Go figure! Maybe I'm just "used" to it now. Nooooooooo!!! Did I just say that?? Well it HAS been almost 20 years people! It's not like I don't know what to expect after all this time.

Anyway, I am finally going to see Julie&Julia tomorrow! I am so excited!!! And then Thursday night is Cub Scouts. Friday is sort of a "free" night..we don't usually do much. Saturday is busy, busy, busy and has filled right up. Which is why I will probably actually be doing things Friday night that I don't normally do...like laundry etc...Or maybe I'll work out! There's an idea!! After watching "The Biggest Loser" tonight I am feeling inspired. I just LOVE that show, y'all. Are you guys watching it? It is AWESOME this season!!! I am so moved by the stories of the contestants. You should watch it if you haven't already. Seriously!! :)

OK...enough random thoughts. It's late and I need to get to bed. Just thought I'd drop ya a line.

Have a good one everyone! Love, Nanette

P.S. Dad...if you are reading this...leave me a comment once in a while so I know you are still alive! Love you!! :)

P.S.S. Did y'all see it's only 100 days to Christmas!!!!! ONE HUNDRED DAYS!!!!!!!!!! WOO HOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! (You can hate me just a little if you want...I understand.)

We Won! We Won! We Won!!

Well...the *kids* won...it had nothing to do with me but you get it. I should say Tony's team won their first soccer game of the season yesterday! We knew they were improving...we could see it but in the first half they scored like 4 goals! Yee-Haw!!!!!!! It was awesome and I was so happy for the kids. They were excited! Let's hope they stay on this roll they are on...we only have a hand-full of games left. I must say, I'm really getting into this sport and I'm definitely getting attached to our kids. They are getting really good and it would be fun to keep going with them and watch them grow. Never thought I'd say THAT...that I'm actually ENJOYING soccer but alas...it has happened. I remember the days of standing by the side-lines and the games being the longest hour of my life. Now, I'm on the sidelines screaming my head off to the point of having to walk away and calm down before I scare the children! LOL!! Anyway, Jake still isn't really "into" it so this may be our last season. We'll see.

Took Jake and a buddy skating last night. It was nice to get out of the house and actually "do" something other than just go to a movie. Jake has improved a lot but it was still nerve-racking to watch. He skates like he's constantly in fear of falling down. You know the type...the kid you steer clear of for fear he'll take you down with him if you accidentally get too close! LOL! But he's doing MUCH better and as long as we continue to go, he'll get better and better. He didn't complain or beg to leave after 20 minutes. That's a first on the long list of things we have tried in the past. Makes me very happy as it's really good exercise AND it's an indoor "sport".

Well...it's a gorgeous day today and I'm trying really hard to get out as much as I can. I want to scrub the car down, too, before we go into winter. It's got green stuff growing on it. It's in dire need of some attention. We'll see. The time flies by pretty quickly on days like today. Come to think of it, my windows need washed and I need to get groceries. There's never "nothing" to do around here!!

Tony is watching football all day. So, I guess you could say I'm a football "widow" as of today. Fine with me, tho. I'm free as a bird to do what I want. Right now that means laundry and scrubbing toilets...but once that's done...there's a walk and possible movie in my future. (We'll see how much I accomplish from the list above.) Julie&Julia is here...it's calling my name. Speaking of which, I put Julie Powell's blog on my blog list. She wrote the book "Julie&Julia". She's a pretty funny writer. Thought I would keep up with it for a while to see if I like it. It's under the title of "What Could Happen" in my blog list to the right.

OK...I'm off! Hope you are having a great weekend. Hugs~ Nan XOX

Baby Trey

Trey Biagi...September 4th, 2009 7lbs 2ounces...What a doll!!

Scouting Rocks!

*Deep Breath*....what a day! Work was crazy busy. Thank goodness our soccer game was cancelled due to the monsoon going thru tonight. But...no rest for the wicked. I still had a Cub Scout meeting at 6:30pm. I left work at 5pm and had just enough time to stop for milk and a pizza at Ward Cove. Of course, all they had was whole milk (ack!) so had to make a second stop at Lighthouse. Found some pepperoni for the cheese pizza I picked up so that was good. You can't always get everything at one store around here! Anyway, back to Cub Scouts. Jake and I showed up at the meeting. He is one of 3 Webelos this year in our pack. We are selling popcorn which is the big fundraiser for the year. Be prepared for a knock on your door...Jake wants to earn the pocket knife (oh dear!) We are gonna have to sell a LOT of popcorn.

I'm doing pretty good on my diet! You'd all be so proud of me. I fudged a little today...weak moment but I am doing much better than I was. I don't feel so out of control. I'm back to eating Nutrisystem for lunch and that will help a LOT. I need to order some breakfast food...they make awesome oatmeal! :)

Well...mom duties call. Must go for now. More on how to order popcorn ONLINE for those out of town. You AREN'T off the hook!!!! LOL!!!

Later! Nan

A Funny For Tuesday Night

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JSjXeqA8Iow&NR=1

Enjoy! Nan XOX

I'm Breaking Up With Bacon

Oh Bacon...Sigh. I *heart* you so very much. But alas...I got on the scale today. Bigger Sigh....

Y'all...I have been having WAY too much fun. Eating what I want and sitting on my you-know-what WAY, WAY too much. The time has come...it's back to being "responsible". I am WAY too old apparently to be eating bacon and cookie dough without paying for it BIG TIME. This makes me ever so sad but I guess it's time to be a grown-up. I spent all that time, money and effort last winter to lose weight...just to put 1/2 of it back on. YES YOU HEARD ME!!! HALF!!!!!!!!! I am freaking out. I guess I should have checked the scale about 5 pounds ago to see I was careening out of control. It's a slippery slope y'all. Very, very slippery.

So, guess what's on TV as I type this post? You won't even beleive it. It's a show called "The Best Thing I Ever Ate...With Bacon". I kid you NOT. Sigh.....I guess I have to break up with the food network as well...too tempting. There are so many yummy things to be desired on this channel.

So, that's how MY day went. Busy, Busy..."hey, I better check the scale" in the middle of it. Really? Did I really need to do that TODAY? No time like the present, tho, to get your hiney in gear. Back to the gym I go starting tomorrow. It is ON!!!! Now, if my BFF (aka walking partner) would just get back to town I would be SET!! Another few weeks and Buffy will be home. She's my biggest inspiration these days. Although, I think she's losing her mind out on that fishing boat...she's actually LIKING it. What the heck?!? It's freaking me out a little. :)

OK...I better ski-daddle. There's always something to do around here! Love Y'all!! Nan XOX

Procastination

Well...things never go as planned. I didn't go to work today but I'll figure out a way to make up my time I missed. Worse case scenerio...I just use my PTO. Sigh.....

Anyway, it's just been a lazy couple of days. I can't quite seem to get motivated. I'm putting off doing the dishes by updating the blog. Thought I'd let y'all know that Julie finally named the new babe. They came up with "Trey Alexander". Trey meaning "third". Pretty clever since it's their third kid! :)

Jake has been playing outside a lot this weekend since the weather has been decent. Yesterday was really nice...I think it was almost 70 degrees. He even went swimming!! I don't know how he can stand that cold, freezing water!! He's an Alaskan boy for sure.

OK...I've dilly-dallied long enough. The chores are calling and I want to make some goodies for the Biagi's. I think a loaf of banana bread is in order...it's "semi" healthy. They don't like to eat a lot of garbage and I have 3 over-ripe bananas. So, there ya go! LOL!! Hope they like it.

Have a great week everyone! Ours will be busy once again. Hugs~ Nanette XOX

Not So Long Weekend

Well, it's supposed to be a nice, long "holiday" weekend. Not so much for me unfortunately. Today was my Saturday to work for Dr. Mesdag. I got to bed fairly early last night in preperation for getting out of bed early for the 6th day in a row...it wasn't early enough apparently. I dragged my behind all day. I was SO tired. Events of this week caught up with me, I guess. Even the doc was tired. He took advantage of a "no-show" and took a little cat nap in the exam chair. I even heard snoring coming from the room! In all my time working for him...he's never done that. Perhaps it's time to start thinking retirement?? LOL!! Anyway, it was a pretty busy day but I did have time to read my book in between patients. I am addicted to Julie & Julia. It's not for everyone but I sure am entertained by it. I do know for certain, however, that I will never try to make JC's (Julia Child) recipes in her cookbook MTAFC (Mastering the Art of French Cooking.) A lot of the things that Julie Powell has made (at least the ones she's written about) sound NASTY. I thought trying to cook them would be the challenge...I was wrong. Eating them would definitely be the harder part. Gross!!! Have you ever heard of "Aspic"? I won't gross you out by explaining it. You'll have to Google it or read this book! I'm wondering if they cover this in the movie. I sure hope they include the chapter where she has to kill a live lobster. It's pretty darn funny!!

I came home after dropping off the doc and immediately went back to bed. I haven't been this tired in a really long time. I need to get back to exercising. I felt so much better and had more energy when I was at least walking regularly. Sigh....So, starting tomorrow I will work towards that goal. Wish me luck!

Jake's soccer game went well today from what I heard. The rain stayed away again...not sure how we've managed that but I'm not complaining. They didn't win but we are seeing definite improvement in the kids and they seem to be having fun (at least I hope they are!)

Tomorrow will be chores/errands day. I was hoping to stop and see Julie and the baby (whom they still haven't named) but I don't believe they are letting kids in the OB dept. With the whole Swine Flu scare the hospital is on "lock down". They'll be home Monday...we'll go visit then.

Monday it's back to work for me to make up the hours I was at the hospital with Julie on Thursday. No rest for the wicked I suppose! Hee Hee! Like I said...no long weekend for me. It's all good, tho. I have lots of work to do and it will be nice and quiet. Plus, I need to save my PTO for Christmas vacation.

So, there you have it. That's what's happening on our end. Nothing exciting. Think I'll go back to my book now! Hope you are all having a great weekend. :)

Hugs! Nan

Baby Biagi

Here he is! Still no name yet that I know of. 7lbs 2oz of pure love!!!

It's a Boy!

Well after all that yesterday...Julie's water broke last night. Thank goodness daddy was home b/c there's NO way she could have gotten me out of bed at 1:30am last night!! I was DEAD to the world. LOL! Anyway, C-Section at 4:30ish brought little boy Biagi into the world. 7 pounds 2 ounces...healthy and doing well! I am excited for them and I'm sure Julie is SO relieved it's all over. Now it's time to recoup and enjoy their new baby. Sniff...I missed it by a DAY people!! I was SO close! LOL! Just kidding. I know Chris is very happy he was here for the big moment. Blessings to all of them. I'll post pics when I get a chance to see them. Right now I'm letting them rest. Since they live next door there's plenty of time and opportunity for visiting. :)

Happy Friday, all.........Nan XOX

False Alarm

So, last night my dear friend, Julie, came by for something. I don't even remember what it was. Oh yeah...the newspaper. We get it daily...she doesn't. Now mind you...she's VERY pregnant right now. She has only 3 weeks to go before her scheduled "due date". Actually, it's a scheduled C-Section since she's already had two and they frown on VBACs in this town. Don't ask me what that is b/c the men reading this blog...and those that can't handle any kind of talk of an OB/Gyn nature will be screaming at me. Basically it's just a "normal" delivery after you've already had a C-section...they can be dangerous and being on this island it's something they just don't care to do. SO ANYWAY...sheesh...didn't mean to go off on that tangit! LOL!!! So, Julie pops in looking like she's got a basketball under her blouse. She tells me that she is starting to feel contractions and feels she could have the baby any day now. So, my radar goes up (knowing her hubs is out of town) and I tell her (more like instruct and demand) that I will leave my phone by my bed at night and NO MATTER WHAT she is to call me NO MATTER WHAT time it is. I will take her to the hospital. So, yada, yada, yada and she was on her merry way with paper in tow. We went on with our evening. Now...I didn't mention that MONTHS ago...when she first found out that her eggo was preggo...Hee Hee...she asked me if I'd be willing to go into the surgery with her in the event Chris (the hubs) couldn't be there. I said "OF COURSE" with a LOT of enthusiasm! Who would say "no" to that?!? Well, apparently, not everyone is excited about witnessing that sort of thing cuz I'm the only one she asked. I was/am up for the mission if I'm needed. Enough said...it was/is a done deal.

Sooooooo....back to last night. I went to bed and by some miracle remembered to put the cell phone next to us on the dresser. We konked out...happy to be in bed before 11pm. LOL! It was probably 10:45ish at this time. Anywho......so I'm in dreamland and at 2:21am...you guessed it. The cell phone goes off! Now...I had forgotten to tell Tony my plan and warn him the phone *could* quite possibly be going off at any time. So, of course, he has a heart attack as I grab the phone. For a nanno-second I think it's my alarm going off and thank goodness remembered in time that THIS WAS IT!!! I don't think I've woken up that fast in my life after only a few hours of sleep. Sure enough...it was Julie...and it WAS TIME to go to the hospital. I was excited...she was in pain (poor thing).

I got ready to go in about 10 minutes and went next door to get her. Her bag was packed..her mom was there with the kids. We were SET!! The adrenilin was flowing (keeping me awake)....we made it to the hospital in one piece...I didn't even speed. I was cool as a cucumber. I'm the right girl for the job!! :) I think we arrived around 3am to a not very excited crew. I guess if you've seen one woman in labor, you've seen them all?!? LOL! I remember feeling that way when I worked for the OB/Gyn...after a while it's just another pregnant lady!! LOL! Anyway...so we checked in, they hooked her up, etc...etc...they gave her fluids. All the standard stuff went down including some medicine to help stop contractions. It helped a lot to say the least. Julie wasn't suffering quite so badly. We started to realize rather quickly that this baby might not come just yet! So, after many hours, a lot of fluids, and another shot of medicine...it soon became apparent we may just be going home. In all actuality...this was for the best since the baby isn't due for 3 more weeks, right? Sigh........I saw my chance of being at this birth fizzle. Not only that, when Chris got wind of what was happening, he quickly made reservations to come home.

So, sure enough, after some more time went by, we got the word that Julie was not in what they considered "active labor" and were given the OK to go home. By then she was starving, thirsty, and exhausted...very ready to just GO HOME!!! Chris was on his way and all was right with the world once again.

So, here I am. 12 hours later...waiting. And I'm sure I'll wait some more. It could be a while...who knows!?! I'm just glad I could be there for whatever she needed even if I'm not at the main event. OH!! And that book I told you about?? Julie & Julia....BOY!! Did THAT ever come in handy!!!!!!! Thank goodness I had the wherewithall to remember to bring it!!! All that waiting is terrible without something to occupy yourself with! I made some great headway on this book...did I mention how good it is???? I can't wait to see the movie now!!!

So, that's it for today. Enough excitement for me for a while. I will sure sleep good tonight!

Love and Hugs~ Nan XOX

Julie & Julia....

I am reading this book right now. So far it's really good. I'm already wanting to try my hand at some French "cuisine". Ooh-la-la!!! They use my favorite things in french cooking...Butter, butter, and more butter! LOL!! Do they use bacon? I'm wondering about that at the moment. The potato soup in Julia Child's first cookbook was only potatoes, leeks, cream, butter, and salt & pepper. How does one make a potato soup without bacon??????? My grandma ALWAYS used bacon when I was growing up. It just wouldn't be the same without it. Not only does she use the bacon...but the bacon GREASE as well. Oh yeah.....DE-LISH people!!

Speaking of bacon, I made brussell sprouts for the first time tonight. I've not only never made them...I've never EATEN them. Yep....40 year old Sprout "virgin". GASP!!!!!!!!!! (Did she just say virgin?!?) LOL!!! Anyway, the web sight done by my friend Karen in South (?) Dakota (I get north and south mixed up!) made some Brussell Sprouts and they just looked so good. I knew I would like them. She uses 1/2 stick of BUTTER....the bacon was MY idea. How can ANYTHING be bad if you use enough butter and bacon???????

OK...enough of all of this silliness. I really didn't have much to report. Just wanted to find out what everyone is reading and eating, I guess. It's Wednesday...countdown to Friday...T-minus 2 days?!? Is that how they do a proper countdown? Busy weekend ahead!!

Bye for now and thanks for stopping to read my silly blog!!!!!!!!! :) Nan

P.S. Pork Fat Rules!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Soccer 2009

Jake playing "goalie" while Daniel tries to kick the ball in.

Jake anticipates Isaac booting it in...he's a good kicker!!

Showing off for the camera. What a goofball!!

Our team for 2009! Notice we have 5 girls!! Yeah...Alaska Girls ROCK!!!

So, we are well into our soccer season and so far we haven't gotten rained on. I know it's just a matter of time but it sure has made things more pleasant for the time being. :) We haven't won any games yet, but that's OK. It's about learning and having fun...as long as the kids are doing that then it's OK by us. Tony is coaching and I am the "assistant" coach. I do the important stuff...like making sure the kids have snack at the end of the game and such. LOL!! Just kidding...Tony has the hard job for sure. I am learning a lot about soccer, tho, which isn't always a good thing. I've found myself getting quite worked up at the game when the ref misses or makes a bad call. Another test in the "patience" department. :)

Anyway, we are getting some nicer weather again. It's not as hot as it was but that's just fine in my opinion. The days are rapidly getting shorter, tho, and that's always a bummer. Fall is right around the corner.

That's all I have for now! Hope you are having a great week! Love, Nan XOX

First Day Of 5th Grade

Here's Jake as we are flying out the door yesterday. Of course, he didn't want to wear one of the nice NEW shirts I had ordered from Lands End and insisted on this ratty, ol' T-shirt he's been wearing all summer!! Sigh....Pick your battles, right? So, I gave in and said "fine!" but made him wear new jeans and new shoes etc...etc.... This is a perfect example, however, of how our kids drive us crazy. That, and asking for a cell phone. Who needs a cell phone in FIFTH GRADE?!? Heck, I survived my ENTIRE childhood and most of my adult life without one!!! Sigh....Anyway, school went great yesterday and Jake is really liking being out at Point Higgins. As soon as he saw his best friend, Alec, I no longer existed. I didn't get to meet his teacher like I'd planned. Sigh....but at least HE was comfortable. I just have to accept that he's growing up. I'm glad he is so independent. It's just hard letting go. *Sniff* More to come.........Nan

The Slideshow

So...I got the slideshow going. For those of you that haven't figured it out, if you click on the pictures on the slideshow you can actually go into the Picasa website and see the pictures blown up etc. They are quite small on the blog and I find myself squinting to see them. You may be able to see my other albums as well but I'm not sure. I'll check it out when I get more time. I'll also try to figure out a way to put a caption under the pics so you kind of have a clue of what's what in each pic. :)

Anyway, hope you are enjoying the updates. I feel my creative juices flowing again and the desire to keep adding and writing. You can expect to hear more from me...especially with the weather starting to turn already.

Bye for now!! Nan XOX

Stay Tuned!

I finally put together a new album of summer pics but there is a bit of a delay getting them from Picasa. As soon as it's "ready" I will be sure to post it. I didn't take as many photos as I thought and now I'm wishing I had! Waaaa!! I want a summer do-over, please!! Sniff! Anyway, I didn't post any of our vacation pics yet b/c I want to do those seperately. I may just post those in a new post instead of an album.

Bye for now! Love, Nan

P.S. School starts tomorrow. I can't believe I'm the mother of a 5th grader!! I've been emotional all night and I'm guessing it has something to do with that. Plus, I miss summer already! I had to pull out my wool sweater this a.m. But wouldn't ya know??? It got NICE this afternoon. Perhaps old man Murphey was playing a trick on me! I'm gonna do that tomorrow too!! Oh!! We had the MOST spectacular sunset tonight. Here's a pic for ya. As my friend Stacy always says..."Jealous?" LOL!!!

Wow! A New Post!

Well...so much for keeping up on the blog. What can I say? We had a wonderful summer and it was too hot to sit in the office spending time on blogging. I have no other excuse (other than being lazy, I suppose!) I have had two people complain about me "abandoning" this so I'd better get on the stick and catch up. I will post pics later. Actually, I may just attach a slide-show with all the latest pics and replace my "snow" pictures. Yeah...I'll do that. It will be much faster and save me a lot of frustration. Plus, it's just "time" to replace those snow pics!! LOL!

So, where did I leave off? I think we were getting ready to go on vacation! Yes...we took off for Portland on July 3rd to spend some time with my family. We stayed at my dad's new house in Portland. He is out in East Portland...kind of close to Gresham for any of you in the PNW that know where I'm referring to. It's kind of "out of the way" but it's not far to I-5 which takes you just about anywhere you want to go. And my dad was very gracious with the use of his car sooo...we were good to go!! Anyway, the 4th of July was spent in Ridgefield where I grew up. It was quite a day!! It was up over 90 degrees...that is VERY hot for us Alaskan folk! The parade was pretty good and I took a lot of pictures. I've never seen SO many tractors, tho! You know you are in farm country when people line up for what seems like miles with their tractors for a parade...yep..."you might be a redneck"...etc...etc....LOL!!! Just kidding!! There were some very impressive machines to say the least! :) We also went to my cousin, Marie's, new house for a BBQ. It was fun seeing her and hearing about all her plans for the "fixer-upper" she and her husband bought. It's going to be cool when it's all done!

After the 4th, we did a little shopping in Oregon and tried to take advantage of what Portland had to offer. We did the zoo (more pictures ensued) and went to OMSI (Oregon Museum of Science and Industry.) The weather wasn't that great so we didn't get to go swimming and such. I was a bit bummed by that. I *DID* get to see a lot of family, tho, including my brother, his wife and my new niece, Abigail. I am in LOVE with Abbie...will post pics later. My other sister, of course, with her brood was ever present. Baby Clara is getting so big already! She'd changed a lot in the 6 weeks between visits (I was down there Memorial Day weekend.) It was fun seeing them again and Jake had fun seeing all his cousins. I spent a little time with my baby sister, Crystal. She's been studying to take the test to get into medical school so I didn't see her as much as I would have liked but I understood.

At the end of the trip we spent a day out at Seaside, Oregon on the Oregon Coast. WHAT A BLAST!!! This was the hightlight of our trip. Tony was in awe of the beach and the sand and all things "beachy". It's completely different down there in comparison to SE Alaska! He and Jake tried the "skim board" that all the kids were using...it seems to be all the rage now. It was a very windy day and body surfing and swimming were out of the question so the skim board it was!! I ended up buying a kite. Great day for kite flying that's for sure!! We are definitely planning to go back there some day and actually stay a night or two. It's a great little touristy town but they also have some outlet stores I'd like to check out. You know me...I have to shop where-ever I go!!

All in all, it was a great visit. My aunt, Lori, and cousin, Emma, came over for dinner the last night we were there. It's always fun when Lori is around! My other cousin, Ryan, came by and it was great seeing him. He lives not far from my dad so I will be able to see him a little more often (I hope.) We are planning a trip down for Christmas so hopefully I'll get to spend even more time with everyone. Jake and I will be there for two weeks over Christmas break. I am excited about that!! Tony will more than likely come down for a few days to spend the holiday with us (unless he wants to save miles for Hawaii...hint...hint!!).

Since our return, we have enjoyed probably one of the best summers in Ketchikan that I can remember. It rained for about a week when we got home but then got gloriously hot again. It was marvelous!! Jake spent countless hours on the beach with Damion from next door. We enjoyed sitting on our deck watching the water. We didn't get out and do much other than the beach once in a while but it was still fantastic seeing the sun and getting a reprieve from the gloom and rain. We just simply enjoyed it as much as we could. Other than that, we really haven't been up to much. (One downside to the heat, however, is it killed the fish I've been fish-sitting. The parrot fish that I pictured on this blog and the silver dollars are gone. I was just SICK about it. It happened while we were gone b/c our house was all closed up and it just got too warm for them. Thank goodness Buffy hasn't disowned me for killing her fish!!!!)

Anyway, work has been extremely busy for us both so there's nothing new to report there. Soccer has begun and Tony is coaching this year. Jake wasn't too thrilled about playing but he has sucked it up and just dealt with it. I wish he'd be a little more excited but "whatchya gonna do" right? He's doing OK with it....and I am the "assistant" coach so....I'm helping keep him in line. :) Our first game was Saturday. It was a lovely day and even tho we lost 3-1 we still had fun (I think!) LOL!

School starts in 2 days. My boy will be a 5th grader. I can hardly believe it! Pics to follow for sure! Oh...and he's still hanging in there with the flute. He is taking a weekly lesson and will start band at school as well. He is excited about getting to his new school and seeing all his new/old friends. He'll be at Point Higgins this year. Mrs. Troina is his teacher. I hear she's very nice! Can't wait to meet her!

OMGoodness!! I almost forgot....I turned the big 4-0 this year!!!!!!! I knew there was something I was forgetting!! LOL!! It was pretty painless. It's hard to beleive I'm in the "40 and older" category. Yeesh!!!

Well, that's all I can think of for right now. I better get going. I promise (I always say that!) to put pics on here asap. I also have video of some whale action from earlier in the summer. We are back to our gloomy, rainy weather so I'm sure you'll be hearing more from me. Hope you all have had a wonderful summer!

Love and Hugs~ Nan XOX

I Must Blog!

OK, OK....I know I am SO far behind on this blog it is utterly ridiculous. Not as ridiculous as some...but ridiculous none the same. Can you tell I LOVE the word "ridiculous"? I just hope I'm spelling it correctly. Where's the autocorrect you ask? Well, apparently is just doesn't exist on Blogger. Nice! Another thing to be exasperated about. THAT and the fact that it has become a federal case just to put pics on this stinking blog that I sometimes wish I had never started. I'm kind of having a tizzy...can you tell?? LOL!! Just kidding. I am starting to ramble, however, so I will quickly get to the point of my post. But first, I will check to see if Blogger has at least some spell check. I love me some spell check y'all. I am ALL ABOUT spelling and grammar and all that jazz. :) I see there is a little button right above this text that has a little "ABC" with a "check mark" right below it. BINGO!!!!!!!!!!! Lovely...it doesn't tell me how to exactly spell the words right...it just highlights them. CHECK, PLEASE!!!!!! WAITER??????????? Oh geez.

Sigh.....Ok...enough of that nonsense. Oh, one more thing. Pics will come later. I know I'm behind but bear with me. I can't do pics from work so I'll just update you now and post pics later. Sorry. I know it's disappointing but you'll just have to "deal". LOL!!!

Where do I begin? I already told you about my family meeting me at the airport so I'll just talk about my last trip down to Portland. It was, in a word, "FAST". I did see my parents, grandparents, my baby sister, Crystal, and my other sister and her family and the new baby. It was REALLY good to see everyone. I hadn't realized just how much I missed them. All of Becky's kids are growing up so fast. The last time I saw them was August of 2007. That's quite a lot of time to go by. Oh! I also met up with my auntie, her daughter and my uncle and his family. It was such fun to be there. The weather was amazingly warm considering it was the end of May. Flowers were in bloom and I wore flip flops the whole time. I had to wear shorts at my uncle's BBQ b/c it was SO HOT that day. It was so much fun catching up with everyone and I can't wait to do it again when we are down there next month. It was very hard to leave and of course I came home to rain. I was VERY glad to know that we have tickets and are leaving again the 3rd of July. Can't wait!!!

Shortly thereafter, school was out and Jake was FREE! We started having some amazing weather as well and summer was well on it's way. We even went kayaking one night with a friend from work. It was blissful for about a week. Jake has been going to the Rec. Center "summer camp" from 8-3pm (he spent one week at Lori's but got bored.) He will be there until we leave for vacation then he's going back to Lori's for the remainder of the summer. By then there will be more kids (boys) to play with and it won't be so boring for him. Anyway, as I mentioned in a previous post, he is also taking flute lessons on Tuesday afternoons. He seems to enjoy it so far. Other than that we are just biding our time until vacation.

We've seen a lot of whale action this summer already. I have some video of the Orcas going by. I will post that at a later date along with pics of my family and the new baby, Clara. Speaking of which, I found out that my brother and his wife are flying into Portland the same day we are so I will get to see baby Abigail for the first time..FINALLY!!!!!! I am so excited about that I could just pee myself...just a little bit y'all...seriously! At my age...it's not difficult. LOL!!!

Speaking of my age...I am having a very special birthday next month. I can hardly believe it. I have been trying to figure out what I want to do to mark the occasion. I finally remembered what I've been wanting to do again FOREVER and that is "Zip Lining". I'm thinking I'll get some of my peeps together and we'll make a day of it. Nothing makes you feel more alive then Zip Lining. It's a "Must Do Before You Die" kind of thing. Seriously! Sooo...I will be doing some celebrating while I'm south as well since I will be with my family. My mom has lined up a massage for me with THE BEST massage lady, B.J. She's THE BOMB. I cannot WAIT!!! Then, of course, there WILL be some cake and things of that very sugary nature. I am so excited. I can hardly believe I made it to see 40. Wow!! Just saying it out loud puts a knot in my stomach. Yikes!! How does that happen???

I can't think of anything else that's happening at the moment so perhaps I'll end this for now. I will post pics and try to keep up on this blog (I always say that!) a little more frequently. :)

Ta Ta For Now~ Nanette XOX

P.S. I forgot to mention that my mother has been diagnosed with "Atrial Fibrillation". This explains her collapse at work on May 4th. I am very relieved that they figured out what the problem is and she is able to take medication for it. If you don't know what A.F. is...Google it! :) (I just love saying "Google It!" LOL!!)

My Wonderful Family

So, as you all know, I went south to see the fam for Memorial Day weekend. I had made plans ahead of time to have my little sis, Crystal, pick me up. Unbeknownst to me, however, there was a welcoming "committee" of sorts there waiting as I walked out of the security area. Standing there was Crystal, my grandma, my mother, and my auntie!!! Not only that...they were all dressed in Hawaiin "garb" and had a BIG, YELLOW sign saying "Nanette...Welcome Home!" Holy cow was all I could think at that point!! How cute are they, tho??? LOL!!! It really touched my heart to know that I had been missed so much. :)

From left to right, My grannie, Mom, Aunt Lori and Crystal. I love them so much!!!!! Thanks guys!!

Fish-Sitting

Hi Everyone! Meet Waldo the parrot fish. He and the others belong to my BFF, Buffy, and we are taking care of them over the summer. Buffy and the fam are going commercial fishing and she didn't have room (or electricity) on the boat sooooo....I offered to foster parent them for a few months. It's been 2 days and we are already attached. :( They are so funny!! Who knew fish could be so fun? Anyway, I know I have a lot to blog about but honestly...after a day at my desk doing data entry...it's all I can do to put THIS on here! You'll have to bear with me. You may just get random pics, thoughts, and posts for a while until I get out my blogging "slump".

On a totally different "note"...Jake started flute lessons today. He already seems to be getting the hang of it. I'm so excited for him!

Bye for now! Nan XOX

P.S. Did I mention we had to order water this week? Yep...we are in conservation mode. You know what they say in SE Alaska..."If it's yellow...let it mellow." If it's brown...flush it down! LOL! (Hope that's not TMI for some folks!)

Playing Catch-Up!

Better late then never, right? This is Jacob (kid in striped shirt) playing at his last concert of the school year last month. He did so well on the recorder! We were very proud. Next, we are moving onto the flute. Jake will be in 5th grade next year which means...Band! Yeah! We are excited and he can't wait to get started. We rented a used flute over the weekend (we are renting to own) and he begins private lessons tomorrow. I figured it couldn't hurt to give him a head-start and since he's so excited about it...I'm all for it! :)

Is She Ever Going to Update Her Blog?

I know this is what you all are thinking out there in cyberspace! LOL! Thanks for not hasseling (sp?) me about it. Any of you that blog know that there's a time for blogging and a time for your actual, so-called "life". Having the time to just sit down and blog is somewhat of a luxury for most of us. Not to mention, putting pics on here is almost a freakin' art form and can be a REAL pain!! I have tons of pics to put on, too, so it may be a challenge tonight. I may have to just start with a few and blog a little each day. We'll see how it goes. Anyway, last I left you I was getting ready to leave town and was trying to keep you posted on Marina's condition. Well, after I left to go south which was Friday of Memorial Day weekend, I got a message from a friend that Marina was actually being released from the hospital and was leaving Bellingham to return to Ketchikan. Once she was south, the doc in Bellingham knew exactly the best course of treatment and she got a LOT better rather quickly. She was like a new person once they got her on the right meds. She flew back to Ketchikan on Saturday of that weekend before I even made it back to town. I was much relieved to hear how much she'd improved. Needless to say, she is doing HEAPS better. I think she's still suffering with some headaches and short-term memory loss but that is to be expected with a head injury. I think it was a week or so later, tho, when I got a text message stating that she and Gillian were at Oceanview having lunch and to join them asap. They didn't have to ask twice! When I saw Marina, I couldn't believe my eyes! She looked AMAZING....like nothing had ever happened. Marina is the one on the left above! Ms. Gillian is on the right...my new, dear friend I refer to as Mizz Gillian! :)

Just like I thought, Blogger is already giving me fits when it comes to posting pics. I will continue this update in a new post and I will try adding pics first and THEN text. Sigh....

Back in a bit. On to the next post! :) Nan

Week One

Well..it's time to update again already because as we all know...what a difference a day can make, right?? Things have taken a "turn" since I posted last night. Marina is being shipped to Harborview in Seattle to see a Neurologist after all. Her doc felt it was the best course of action. She is now experiencing "auditory sensitivity" and he feels she should be thoroughly checked out. I'm sure she's not too happy about it but OH WELL. She was a very naughty patient yesterday so I'm glad she's going somewhere where I KNOW they will keep a very good eye on her!

So, there you have it. I will try to blog more frequently as information becomes available. It's going to be a long road.

Have a great Wednesday everyone!! I'm outta here on Friday morning....Can't wait! :)

Love, Nan

Updates

A lot of folks have been asking about Marina so I thought I would post a little more tonight. The last few days have been "big" days. You must remember, she has a pretty major brain injury so progress is slow. Today we found out she has what's called a "shearing brain injury" which doesn't show up on a scan (google it for more details). This is one of the harder injuries to recover from and it explains why she is in so much pain and having all the problems that she is. I can't remember how much I already posted so I'll just tell you what I know and go from there.

Anyway, as far as her head injury goes...it's going to be a longer recovery than we anticipated. That being said...she still has a LOT going for her and things could have been much worse. Like I said above, she is still suffering from a tremendous headache, double-vision, and sensitivity to light. It's hard for her to open her eyes...the room starts spinning when she does. There was a call to the "neuro" doc today and he did have some encouraging things to say. He said everything she is experiencing is completely normal and that a trip south is not necessary (there was earlier talk of her taking the Life Flight to Seattle for a full neuro work-up.) He said they are doing everything for her here that they would do down below. This was VERY good news!!

She is now getting out of bed on a regular basis and even snuck out of bed to shower today...much to the dismay of the nurses! We're going to have to duct tape her to the bed!! LOL!! The fact that she's up and about is a really good sign. She's moving SLOW mind you...I was shocked to hear she got up on her own. That's pretty significant progress!

I think that's all I can think of for now. Her doc has ordered all kinds of rehab therapy for her and she is really anxious to get started. She was ticked they didn't show up today! I told her "be careful what you wish for." :) They'll be kickin' her fanny soon enough!!

If anyone has questions or concerns, please feel free to call me at 821-1580 for further updates.

On a lighter note...we are plugging along here at the Newell household. Tony has been very patient with me not being around as much...always stopping at the hospital etc. He's been very busy and even put in a 12 hour day on Saturday. Jake was "Student of the Week" 2 weeks ago....I didn't get around to posting it with everything that was going on. He is so awesome!! I am a very lucky mom!!!

I am still leaving on Friday for Portland. It will be really good to get away for a few days to check on my mom. Oh my word!!! I forgot to post that my sister had her baby!! Clara Maria was born on Mother's Day!!!! I can't wait to see her on this trip. My sister is doing well and settling in to having a new baby again. I will post pics when I get back.

For those wondering...my mom hasn't had any more problems. She is wearing a heart monitor right now as they are trying to find out what made her collapse on May 4th. She had one more "episode" of heart palpitations on the 7th...but she didn't pass out. I just hope they can figure something out in the NEAR future. At least I know they are keeping a close eye on her and I don't worry so much.

Well..that's it for now. I need to get to bed. I've been fighting a cold for a few days now.

Keep your prayers coming everyone!!! Love, Nan XOX

Angels Among Us

I don't even know how to begin this post! So much has "gone down" in the last two weeks! I really want to post, however, about the big event that happened last week. It all started (for me) on Thursday morning when I got an email from a friend. It said something to effect that the "missing hiker" (that I knew nothing about) was a gal named "Marina Hinkle". After taking in the fact that there was a missing hiker...I was then processing the fact that this "Marina Hinkle" was/is one of my best friends!!! Oh my word...I can't even begin to tell you how I felt in that moment. I immediately called her husband and hoped beyond hope that there was some kind of mistake. I am REALLY glad I didn't read the paper that morning b/c it was a really grim assessment of the situation. Anyway, Brett, Marina's hubby, began to tell me (with great horror) that Marina had gone out for a little hike alone on Wednesday and never returned. Not only that...but as of that moment on Thursday they STILL hadn't found her!! I just could NOT accept that this was happening...this just could not be for real. I instantly went into "don't panic" mode...and "is there anything I can do" mode..."they WILL find her" mode. Oh...did I mention she was injured and had called 9-1-1 after falling off a cliff??????? Yeah...this story just gets better and better!

So, I told my co-workers what was going on after having a lengthy conversation with Brett. He was beyond worried...she'd been out there ALL NIGHT and who knows how injured she was! Her 9-1-1 call was kind of vague...she had given a description of about where she was and that she needed help. She ended up passing out and then the cell phone died. You can imagine how everyone was feeling when they didn't find her that night. I am really relieved I didn't know this was going on at the time...I would have been SICK with worry. Anyway, after talking to my co-workers I decided I could not stay at the office. The more I thought about it, the more I realized that IF the news was bad that day, I needed to be at the house with Brett. I knew he would absolutely crumble if they didn't find her alive. So, I jumped in the car and just as I turned the key, I got a call from Brett. She was found and alive!!!!! What we didn't know at the time was that she was BARELY alive. They had a hard time finding a pulse. Nonetheless...we were so relieved they found her. They took her to the hospital via helicopter. It was quite an ordeal.

I ended up staying at the office knowing that she might be medivaced south. Brett was expecting them to ship her out depending on how bad her injuries were. She was terribly dehydrated and hypothermic...her body temp was 91...well below normal. She probably had, at the very least, a head injury. She had told the 9-1-1 dispatcher that she hit her head. We worried about spinal injuries as well. At any rate...I didn't last long at the office before deciding to check in at the hospital to see what was up. Thank goodness she was still in the E.R. when I got there. She had not been medivaced like we expected. She was completely unconscious and heavily drugged b/c she had been shivering so badly when they brought her in. We were all just mesmerized (and relieved) by the fact that she was alive.

After work that night I went to the ICU to see her. She was still completely out and it was going to be hours before she "came to". They were still considering sending her south depending on how she responded when she came off the Valium they gave her. I went ahead and went home knowing that her good friend, Gillian, who happens to be a nursing supervisor would be there all night. She promised to call me if anything happened. She even talked Brett into going home to get some rest...he'd been up all night the previous evening while they were still searching. Sooo....we all eventually left so Marina could "rest". We were pretty certain she could still hear all the commotion in the room.

I ended up sleeping really hard that night after taking some Advil PM. I knew if I didn't take something...I would have worried all night. The next morning I got online and saw a few postings (updates) on Facebook by Gillian. Marina had woken up and was talking!! It was a miracle!! Now...when I say "woke up" and "talking"....I don't mean just sat up and started yakking. She was extremely weak, in a LOT of pain, and barely coherent. I will say, tho, the first thing out of her mouth was "I was not alone. Who was that lady out there with me all night?" Y'all...I could NOT believe what I was reading/hearing. I couldn't wait to get back to the hospital to find out more from Gillian what was being said. Was it possible that Marina had her own bonified Guardian Angel out in the forest with her that night??? OF COURSE IT'S POSSIBLE!!!!!!!!! Not only THAT...but this "lady" coaxed Marina out of the spot she was in to get to an area where the searchers could see her. She kept telling Marina that they weren't going to see her and she would die. She keeps telling us now that "The lady was right." Can you believe it???? I am still getting choked up over this story as I tell it now.

There is so much more to tell but I can't get into all of it here on this blog. What I have found out in the last few days, tho, is this: the searchers went back out to the area where Marina was spotted and they think they've located the spot where she landed. She had fallen backwards after the earth gave way under her. They are saying she fell about 40 feet...not the 15 feet she initially reported to 9-1-1. This would explain why she is in very rough shape. She has a major concussion and a severly bruised back. It hurts to even breathe right now. She has a hard time opening her eyes b/c she is seeing "double" and is sensitive to light. It's going to be a long road to recovery. But, her spirits are GOOD and she is determined to get better. She's a fighter!!! Not only that but she is anxious to tell her story about the "lady" in the woods. You have NO idea how full my heart is over this!!

For those of you that don't know, Marina is an emergency room nurse. She is married and has two boys...one of the boys is the same age as Jake. We've been friends about 10 years now. Please pray she will make a full recovery...she means the world to a LOT of people in this community!!!

More later everyone. I am still basking in God's goodness and the PROOF that there really ARE angels among us!!!

Love and Hugs~ Nan XOX

I Must Give Credit Where Credit Is Due....

So, in regards to the last post about my little "jaunt" to the lower 48...this would NOT be possible if it weren't for one very special person that makes it all happen. Yep...you guessed it...my MAIN SQUEEZE...my BETTER HALF...the LOVE of my LIFE....Tony!!!!!!!!! If it weren't for his love and support and general knowledge of how to keep me happy...I wouldn't be going ANYWHERE!! Let me back up for a sec and give you the "low down" on how this all happened. I was at work yesterday morning and my boss asked me if I'd already bought my tickets for our trip in July. Of course, I said "Yes...why?" She informed me that Alaska Air was having a major fare sale. I said "Really? Like, how good are the prices??" I was very interested at this point (as anyone that lives here would be!) She told me it was less than $200 one way to Seattle. So, I immediately went to the Alaska Air site to check it out for myself. Lo and behold...it was $169 one way to Seattle AND Portland!! I think I literally sucked my breath in at that moment...and just about started hyperventilating. That price is UNHEARD of these days....I was in SHOCK to say the least. I immediately went to the instant message program at work and sent Tony an I.M. with the details of what I'd found out. I said "$169 one way to PDX!!!! OMG!!!!!" His response without missing a BEAT was "When do you leave?" LOL!! Y'all....I have to take a moment...a moment of silence if you will. :) This is TRULY a man that understands and RECOGNIZES that "If mama aint happy"....well YOU know the rest!! Need I say more?? Actually, not only does he know the above...but he just knows ME...very, very well. LOL!! That's what 13 years of marriage will do y'all. Mmmm...Hmmmm!! :)

Thanks, baby......YOU MEAN THE WORLD TO ME!!!!! Thank you for all your love and support and especially for being the kind of dad that can hold down the fort while mama is off playin' and visiting the fam. You ROCK!!! I only wish everyone could have such a wonderful partner in this crazy thing we call "life". You get the "Best Husband In The World" award!! Wink!!

OK...enough gushing for one night. Back to my glass of wine and American Idol. Go Danny!! :)

Night!! Nan XOX

I've Never Been Good At Keeping Secrets

Well...let's see. Guess I'll start with the fact that I bought a ticket home, y'all. In light of everything that's happened and what is ABOUT to happen...I am OUTTA HERE!! LOL!! Just kidding....I mean, I *am* outta here but not really for the above reasons. Yes...I was out of my mind with worry on Monday night and Yes...my sister *is* about to give birth any minute...but the truth of the matter is that Alaska Air decided to throw a big "fare sale" and I just could NOT pass it up. The timing couldn't be better. I want to see my mom and make double-sure she *is* indeed OK...I feel the need to see it with my own eyes. Secondly, I know it would mean the world to Becky if I showed up after the baby gets here. Sooo....all that said...I fly out on the 22nd which is the long "holiday" weekend. This way, too, I don't miss more work than necessary. I am SO excited!! And so is mom. I *wasn't* going to tell her...but knowing MY mother...It wouldn't surprise me in the least if she up and took off for the long weekend. It would stress me out too much not knowing if she was going to do something crazy and not be there when I get there! LOL!! She isn't going to let ONE little fainting spell slow HER down...no SIR!! Ahem!

So, I called mom today to check on her and tell her the news that I'm visiting much earlier than expected. She is happy!! We ARE NOT going to tell Becky, tho, that I'm coming. Since she doesn't read my blog...she won't even KNOW!! LOL!! So....for those that DO read this blog...MUM'S THE WORD!!!! Shhhhhhhh!!!!!!! That means YOU Lori, Dad, Rochelle, and whoever else I'm leaving out!! LOL!!

Life is calming down again now that I know mom is doing well. (She is home taking it easy for the rest of the week. She's hoping Becky has the baby and SOON or she won't be able to take any more time off work.) Tony and I are just keeping busy with work and getting Jake through his last month at school. I can't believe it's almost summer! The skunk cabbage is coming up, the cruise ships are starting to arrive, and construction signs are going up everywhere. Yep...summer is just about here!!!

Did I tell y'all that Julie found out she's having another boy?? We (me and Julie) are THRILLED!! Now I spend most waking hours trying to come up with a name. They (she and Chris) are really picky so this is going to be tough. Speaking of which, their son, Kai, is starting Kindergarten in the fall. I am so excited to announce that Jake is going to switch schools and go to Point Higgins next year also (which is where Kai will be going.) We are all excited about the change...it is LONG overdue.

So, that's the latest so far. Jake is going to Lori's again for daycare this summer. He would be too bored if we left him home so that's not an option just yet. He would beg to differ on that, I'm sure.

OK...I better run. Lots to do. :) Oh wait...I forgot to mention the Ladies group I'm "joining". LOL!! I found out this morning that there is a group of ladies that go out every Tuesday night to Kayak. It was started by an outfit here in town that offers kayaking tours etc. Anyway, it's only $15 dollars to go!! AND...you double up with another lady in a "double" kayak. It just doesn't get much better people!! And you can't beat the price!!! I am SO EXCITED!!!! Can you tell??? LOL!!!!

Have a great "hump day" y'all!!!!!!!!!!! Hugs~ Nan XOX

Stress Test

Well, my mom had her stress test this morning and she passed with "flying colors" (her words.) She is being released from the hospital today. This is such an answer to prayer...although it would be nice to know what actually caused her to collapse. We may never know. At any rate, she is doing well and says she feels fine. She is going to have them check out her gall bladder as gall bladder issues run in our family. Other than that, there's nothing to report as of now. No news is good news, right? :)

As far as Becky is concerned, I wasn't able to reach her. I'm really hoping she isn't having the baby TODAY! LOL!! My aunt, Lori, is keeping an eye on everyone for me. She's the ROCK in our family and I'm so thankful to have her.

So, that's it for now. Praise the Lord for answered prayer! He is so good to us once again!!

Hugs~ Nan

An Awesome Email

Got this tonight from a man our church has been praying for. I thought it was so awesome!! I believe "H.S."= "Holy Spirit". If only we could ALL have this perspective! Wow!!! And to get this after what happened with MY mom....Holy Cow!!! Do you think someone is trying to tell me something??? :)

**After sitting very still and paying attention to what was going on in this critter body "I Am" gifted me with, I came to the conclusion that this is probably what they call a heart attack. The pain wasn't unbearable or debilitating or frightening, it was just a careful analysis over a period of an hour that the Spirit assured me this was indeed something I needed to go through. Not so much for me but for everyone else. I shaved, brushed my teeth, sat down, called Mary to me so we could have a talk. After explaining to her what was happening and where all the papers and etc. were, she took me to the E.R. in Baker.

At the E.R. I walked into the reception, picked up the phone and explained to the woman that I was having a heart attack. The circus began. After stripping me of my clothes, dignity, and whatever else was loose,(they even managed a stool sample) they began applying stickers, wires, tubes, monitors, gauges, wrenches, and other odds and ends from around the room. I'm convinced that they had an old war surplus 55 gallon drum of blood thinner sitting around that they saw a chance of getting rid of.. The Doc. confirmed with some excitement that they did indeed have a heart attack in process. They wadded me up to fit into into the rear end of a helicopter. So far, I felt detached from the whole process to that of a spectator. Being a Spiritual being assigned to this critter body, allowed me to spend time traveling around it with H.S. in peace and safety. After the Helicopter. arrived, Ron, Deb, and the Pastor from the local AG showed up and prayed for me. As they were screwing me into place in the helicopter, my symptoms disappeared.

Through the 40 minute flight, I felt in a fog of love, warmth and peace. H.S. and I looked over the situation and He said, "You have a very good heart." I wept.

At St. Al's in Boise the flurry of activity never subsided until they went in through my Femoral artery to see what they had. They inserted several wires, tubes, devices of various kinds and probably some stuff that was laying around the room they had to get rid of. They found a little damage, no need for Angio- plasti or stint. They withdrew and sent me to my room.

Their incision would not stop bleeding for two days (remember the 55 gallon drum.) Five days in the hosp. with a fine staff. The insisted that I lay flat on my back the whole time which left me with fatigue, back pain, and no sleep. The only discomfort was the point of incision and my back. It's always the same. They wake you up to see if you are resting OK or to give you a sleeping pill. You wear a blood pressure monitor that squeezes your arm every 15 minutes. Sleep? Riiiiight.

After the cut quit oozing, and they had removed all the extemporaneous wires, tubes, etc. Mary brought me home.

(Friday pm)
Through it all I was able to enjoy the whole process from the vantage point of a free man just passing through this amazing place. A lot of characters played a role in this episode, some I was able to speak a word of rebuke and others of encouragement and to all gratitude. Friends and family were involved too, of course, but I saw the face of fear in many and I don't think I want any of that.

It was my joy to experience this. No heavy revvy here, just an ordinary heart attack. No great revelations, profound insights to anything. I thoroughly enjoyed the time with H.S. This was just a blip for His purposes, not even a dry run. It ain't my time, baby! Me and H.S. have some stuff to do. In the mean time, all my plans are cancelled and a long rest period is in store. Lookin' forward to it.. The prayers of so many are highly appreciated. Thank you.

Yr.Stmblng.Srvnt. R.

Healthy Dose Of Reality

Nothing gives you a "reality" check like a good, solid "health" scare...whether it be yourself or a parent or especially a child. Recently, it was my own that got me re-evaluating where I stood with God and my life. About three weeks ago, I discovered a lump in my neck. It had been there for quite some time but had grown in size considerably and was now tender and sore. I thought "Oh Great. Now it will *have* to be looked at." So, I didn't mess around...not with MY history. I called the surgeon's office and told the gal quite frankly..."I have a lump and I want it removed." She was ever so gracious and empathetic. I told her about my history of Melanoma etc...etc...and to get me in asap because we all know too well how the mind "works". I knew I'd be planning my funeral before the week was over. I had an appt a week out from that very phone call. So, to make a long story short, I saw Dr. Garcia...the new surgeon in town. Dr. Garcia came with 16 years of experience and I felt confident he probably knew what he was talking about. He told me the lump was more than likely an inflamed lymph node and that I should keep an eye on it...take some Ibuprofen. He was more than willing, however, to take it out if that's what I wanted. I wasn't sure in that moment EXACTLY what I wanted. I liked the idea of the "wait and see" approach. I figured...I can *always* have it taken out later if I change my mind. I really liked the fact, too, that the Dr. wasn't anxious to start cutting on me! The idea of someone yanking out a lymph node for no reason didn't sit well with me. God gave us lymph nodes for a reason, right?? LOL!! Sooo...needless to say, I am waiting and I am seeing. :) I am taking Motrin 2-3 times a day and keeping a very close eye on "it". I have a follow up appointment on the 15th. If the lump is still there...I may have him just take it out. That's really the only way to know for sure whether something is malignant or not. This I know to be true! If it does come down to taking it out...I will be heavily sedated...mark my words! Soooooo...I hope my "melanoma friends" out there don't freak out when they read this. I promise to have the lump removed if and when the time comes. I already know all the stats and risks yada, yada, yada. This is my plan and I'm sticking to it! I really feel at peace with my decision and I know the odds of my melanoma coming back are zero to none...wait...wouldn't those be the same thing? Zero? None?? Huh?!? LOL!!!

Anyway, so after all of this "drama" I was getting back to a normal life. Heck, we even had a week of sunshine to take my mind off of it all. Life was good and we didn't seem to have a care in the world. Then ZAP! Back to reality once again TODAY when my baby sister calls me with "news". I about had a heart-attack. It's that *one* phone call you just KNOW you are going to get when you live on an island 1000 miles away from "home". She was calling to tell me that my mother "passed out" at work today. Unbeknownst to ME...not only did she pass out but she got right back up and started working again!!! She is SO much like ME...or is it vice-a-versa??? I would have done the same...making sure my job was taken care of. Anyway...she started not feeling well so she called a friend to drive her to the E.R. Sure enough...they started doing all kinds of stuff. Apparently, it might have something to do with her heart. Crystal (the baby of the family) said that my mom felt "heart palpitations" right before she went down. Thank the Lord she didn't hit her noggin on the way down!! Anyway, so she's in the hospital tonight. She will have a stress test on her heart in the a.m. I am PRAYING they will find the problem and be able to FIX HER!!! This has been so stressful...I can't even tell you. Nothing serious has EVER happened to my parents and to be quite frank...I was hoping we would go a LONG time before something did. Like I said earlier...re-evaluating EVERYTHING. Sigh. I will be going to God tonight with a LOT of questions. All I can do is hope I get answers. I am just SO grateful He has watched out for us like He has. Between her and I....it could have been a LOT worse. (She's probably going to kill me for putting this on my blog by the way.......Sigh.)

So, we are both waiting and seeing. I will keep you posted on both of us. I'm more concerned about mom, tho. I can handle anything that comes MY way....it's much easier to be the one going through the valley. Much harder to watch those you love go thru stuff. Anyone who knows me well knows that I am a total control freak. This is something that drives me CRAZY in times like this!!

Not much else is happening. I am counting the days until we go south...we really need a vacation!! And, of course, in light of everything I will want to see my mother with my OWN eyes and give her the biggest hug of her life!!

Thanks for listening...reading...praying! This is a great place to "vent" and I appreciate you all so much. On a lighter note...Don't forget...Mother's Day is Sunday!!!! :)

Love and Peace~ Nan XOX

P.S. I heard my other sister, Becky, may be going into labor. Pray for her, too!! She needs it!

New Favorite Recipe

I have discovered my new "favorite thing" this week. It's NOT low-fat by any means but I don't care at this point. Anyway, have y'all heard of "Creme Fraiche"?? I'm sure you foodies out there have and I had too...but I finally tried it last night. It is basically just a "fancier" and more expensive Sour Cream. It was DA BOMB! I will never go back to regular sour cream again...I'm now a Creme Fraiche SNOB!!!! LOL!! Anyway, here's the recipe I used with some Halibut I took out of the freezer. My only regret was not making potatoes to go with the fish...but my thighs are thanking me for THAT today, y'all!!! It was bad enough I was eating the cream as it was. Sigh......

Mustard Roasted Fish

1- 7.5 ounce Container “Crème Fraiche” (pronounced “Crem-Fresh”)
1 ½ TBLSP Dijon Mustard
½ Tsp Stone Ground Mustard
1 TBLSP Chopped Shallot
1 TBLSP Drained Capers
Salt & Pepper

Mix together above ingredients and slather over fish (Halibut or Snapper works best!) Cook fish until liked doneness. Enjoy!

**You will find Crème Fraiche in the “fancy” cheese section at Safeway!

Hope you all try this...it's DA BOMB!!!! :)

Nooooooooooo!!!!!!!!

I was on my way to work this morning and went around the "famous" corner by Jud's and Talbot's and LOW AND BEHOLD there before me was a CRUISE SHIP!! And there were TOURISTS in their matching little wind-breakers and such....I literally GASPED OUT LOUD at the absurdity of seeing a ship this early in the year. It's APRIL for crying out loud...there is still FRESH snow on the mountain. What the HAY is going on??? And in THIS economy??? Are you kidding me??? So, I collected myself and made it to work...taking pictures from the car for "evidence" without getting myself into an accident...thank you VERY much. But I am still reeling from the shock of it all. Usually, shops and businesses start bustling and opening up and we are sort of "forewarned" before such a ship makes an appearance. But nooooo...no way, no how...not this time. Ahem. Even the crossing guards were out in full force. I could NOT believe it!! Where does all the time go??? I guess I should be happy because supposedly this means "summer" is here. Well...I can tell you FULL WELL that "summer" is indeed NOT HERE!!!! It's barely 50 degrees out these days. Sigh.

So, that's the latest from K-town. Another season is upon us. It's inevitable I guess. I will post a picture of said cruise ship when I get home tonight. Until then...be cool. :)

Nan~

Egg Hunt 4/12/09

The hunt is on!

Dad made him slow down long enough to "pose".

Alec is determined to find those eggs!

Still looking!

Bingo!!!!!!!!!!

Bloggy Kind Of Day

Wow! It's been a little bit since I posted but boy did the time go fast! It's been a whirlwind, it seems, even tho there really hasn't been that much going on. Guess I'll start with the fact that we had a very nice Easter. Went to church, as usual, then came home briefly before heading to Rick and Margie's for a nice Easter dinner. Kelly and Alec were there...Kelly is their daughter & my friend (she's my age) and Alec is her son. He is one of Jake's best friend's and they are about a year apart (Alec being older.) We ate, talked, and played the Wii for a bit before calling it a "day". A good time was had by all. Oh! We even had an Easter egg hunt...man...guess you're never too old to get excited over finding those eggs! The boys really enjoyed it. I will post pics of it later when I have a chance.

The rest of the week is kind of a blur. A friend I work with lost her father on Monday night (the 14th actually) and so that kind of threw everything up in the air for me. I wanted to help and be there for her. I was just so sad for her. I ended up helping at the front desk a lot since she was out and we also had another gal out on vacation soooo...I am the "back up" Admin. person these days. I tried to help with that as much as I could. I did manage to work out at least one day but I can't for the life of me remember what happened the other evenings. We did have Kessa over on Thursday night, I believe. She is the girl I used to babysit when she and Jake were little. It was fun having her over. She's so grown up!! I taught her how to play Backgammon. So, I guess between making extra meals, housework, the usual stuff...the week flew by. Saturday was the service for Renee's dad so I went to that for moral support. Afterwards, ended up taking Jake out to a friend's on the other end of the island...he stayed the night. We went out for dinner, which was nice. I was pretty fried by the time Saturday night rolled around! :) Sunday was spent going to church, getting groceries, and all the usual "stuff". I think I got a nap in there somewhere! LOL!!

Yesterday it was back to work. I ended up taking Renee a "cheer you up" kind of basket last night after work. We chatted for a bit then I made it home and made dinner. Nothing too exciting.

I guess that pretty much sums it all up. The weather has been "better" but we are getting quite a bit of rain. I'm not complaining, tho, cuz it's better than SNOW!! :) We are going to be getting Jake a new bike soon...that will be awesome for him! It's that time of year again...to be OUTSIDE!! I am planning on doing more hiking this year and even plan to head up Deer Mountain...something I haven't done since my first year in Ketchikan. It will be even more of a challenge then it was then. Wish me "luck". Hope I don't keel over at the top. LOL!!

Well...I better run. Hope you are all well. To all my bloggy friends...keep up the good work!! I love reading all the blogs that are out there. Facebook just isn't cutting it any more...not for ME anyway.

Take Care, Y'all!! Nan :)