Tuesday, July 31, 2007

The heart in my stone


Steve surprised with a new diamond last year for Christmas. Our good friend Ronnie who is a jeweler helped us with the setting, and I had a new ring in a few weeks. On Valentine's Day, I had a big surprise! I noticed that I could see the shadow of a heart, and if I tipped the ring, it would move from quadrant to quadrant, as the cut is symmetrical. I could not capture it in a photo. So we popped over to see Ronnie, and he had not seen the shadow before, either. There are some diamonds on the market - hearts afire - but this is not one of them. It is not a flaw in the diamond. Ronnie was able to capture it; you may have to click on the image to see it. (Btw, did you notice that my ring has balls! It's a tough cookie!)
Strangely, at times, the heart will disappear. It seems to act like a barometer. Currently, the heart is not visible, although I believe that it is waiting patiently below the surface to reappear. I have tried cleaning the ring to no avail. I thought it was perhaps my aging eyesight, so I asked my children if they could see it anymore and they could not. I don't think I control this heart in my stone anymore than I can control my own heart. It just seems to know what it wants.

Sunday, July 29, 2007

My sister taught me to drive

My sister, four years my junior, taught me to drive a 5-speed stick shift. I had to learn how to drive it in a week because I needed to get to a job 250 miles away in Gary, Indiana. I was 20 years old at the time, and she was 16.

Believe me, she was not the first who tried. I think my dad tried first doing the grind maneuver before he jumped ship. I do remember my mother, who really had a tough time biting her tongue. I think even my brother gave me a few tips. Truly, it was painful.

No, it was my sister, who knew nothing about stick shifts, who taught me to drive. She just sat in the passenger seat, smiling, changing the radio station, and I think, smoking cigarettes. (Forgive me if I am remembering another time . . .) I don't believe she had much to say about the lurching and stalling. She was very supportive! She could care less. I enjoyed her company. I learned to drive, and even when I left flat Illinois and (almost) stalled sitting at a stop light at the top of the hill, I made it to Indiana and my job without a hitch.

Thanks, Val.

I am going to have to remember how to teach silently when the time comes with my own. Sometimes you just need to be there.

Friday, July 27, 2007

New Blog


Ken has a new blog!!! Ken has a new blog!! You are invited to post on his blog . . . you may have been sent an invitation, so please respond. Unfortunately, Ken walked out on me (or, more accurately, drove his VW bug) and I neglected to take any pictures of him, his easter bunny suit, etc. So comment and post away!!! He needs some immediate attention or I'm afraid he will be done with us for good. Find out how easy it is to blog - go for it!!

http://ken4everbirthdaytreat.blogspot.com/

Wednesday, July 25, 2007

I'm coming clean


I'm addicted . . . to John from Cincinnati . . . I watch it repeatedly. I love all the characters. The little surfer dude reminds me of Cameron. I totally identify with the porn star mom. (kidding!!! puhleeze!!!) But who knew that HBO would create every possible media marketing channel known to man? One thing I keep getting, loud and clear, is that when you get older, you don't keep up. I'm trying! I'm trying!!! I commit myself to trying to remain technically astute. ahem. Here are just a few of the blogs, you tubes, fake web sites, etc. that they have created to inspire interest in their new series. (I'm good but if you kill off Shaunie, I'm done. I can take anything on the sopranos but I couldn't take that.)


John from Cincinatti HBO Official web site: Cast and Crew (trivia: Dr. Michael Smith looks exactly like my sister's ex-husband Peter Barnes. Freaky!!!!!)



Here is the fake Yost Clan Web site that the character Dwayne hosts - even better, he stopped posting last September = it must be real!!!:




You tube: just search on JFC; here's one you shall surely enjoy with stills from the series:



Please also enjoy the Opening Credits (Johnny Appleseed song). I have been begging for Steve to record this so that I can share with my non HBO friends. If he is uber-hubbie, I'm sure he will!! I'm sure you will enjoy "Crap Machines," "Jesus, Mary, and Joseph" (thanks Bill Jacks i.e. Ed O'Neill from "Married with Children" ), and many more.


Also, "Stinkweed", the (I think- but what do I know, I am a stayathome mom) fictional website-




I got my eye on U . . . .

Sunday, July 22, 2007

Learning Curve

A doctor told me once that not everyone can learn through another's experience. She gave the analogy of a pothole out in the parking lot. She said, "You might be able to just drive up and see the pothole; you would turn away and find a different way to pass." She explained further that not everyone could do that. Some would have to repeatedly drive up to the pothole, again and again, before changing a habit and going a different direction. And some would actually have to drop one wheel of their car into the pothole before realizing that it was, indeed, real! Worst case was the person that would have to sink the entire car into the pothole, again and again, getting hauled out by the tow truck. She said, unfortunately, that this person may never actually make a permanent change, being compelled to drive into the pothole - as if pulled by a magnet.

We hope we can save our children the trouble that we experienced by relaying personal experiences. But we will need to tap into their personal learning style if we are to make that connection. And we may not be able to help friends and family - or even ourselves - if this is not our learning style.

I like to think of myself as a person who learns from another's experience. But unfortunately, we are not all facing the same challenges. We are all on a separate path. I am sure that there are some potholes for me that I am compelled to test, again and again, to make sure that they are real, thus knowing that I am alive. They are just not the same potholes that you face; so I will try not to judge you (or your potholes) and just pray for you safe passage.

Saturday, July 21, 2007

I want to rock 'n roll

All night . . . O.K., 'til about 8 p.m. This year's Camp Jam experience was doubled - Gavin joined John, which didn't exactly make it pleasant for the counselors or the parent carpoolers due to excessive brotherly love. The grand finale of the week-long camp was of course the concert, which was much shorter than in years past. Yes, the Raes rocked, as did the Swints and the McKenzies and numerous other kids. And never did I see so many of the elderly in the audience. Go, grandma! Turn off the hearing aids and jam.

Click on the pics to watch the videos. (thanks to Stephen Mitchell Rae Video Editing Svs, LTD.)

For more info, click on the Camp Jam logo. They have programs for you closet rockers at This House Rocks on weekends as well.






Monday, July 16, 2007

Kevin Enners & the Hoyt Foundation

Steve and I had just seen the most amazing story about Dick & Rick Hoyt . . . and now we find out that the Enners Team is racing to support this amazing duo and their foundation. How exciting and how amazing . . . please contribute, if only with a message of support, and be a part of their team. Take the time to watch this video about the Hoyt's and then view Kevin's video!!! (tip: grab box of kleenex now . . . ) (Plus, you can't see, but there is an amazing mom behind the scenes: Claudette!!! Trust me, she rocks . . . just like you do.)

P.S. You can donate today right from the blog! P.P.S. Check the comments for some of the feedback I am getting and post your own!

http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=9187482533183981137

A note from Claudette:

Hi all-

Rich and Kevin will be running the Virginia Beach Half-Marathon on Labor Day weekend with Dick and Rick Hoyt. Actually, Rich will be running and Kevin will be riding his bike. This will be their second half-marathon this year!

Although Kev has CP, he has competed in four 5K races this year, two of which he ran in his walker the entire 3.1 miles. He comes in last when he runs, but the crowd is so supportive and vocal, he wants to do it again and again. At each race, people have been inspired and, to an extent, educated as to his desire to participate like everyone else. For this reason, we are asking that you support Rich and Kevin's effort in raising $1,500 to be donated to the Hoyt Fund. Please click on the following link to read Kevin’s note about this event.

http://www.firstgiving.com/kevinenners

There are many tax-deductible, non-profit organizations that rely on donations to help find a cure for life-threatening diseases, help eliminate hunger, curb environmental issues and save animals. The Hoyt Fund's goal is to "integrate the physically challenged into everyday life ....... by actively helping the disabled to participate in activities that would otherwise be inaccessible to them."

We appreciate your support!

Claudette

Sunday, July 15, 2007

blogworthy hubbie behavior

It is on rare occasion that I can say I've been truly pampered. All joking aside and no more threats about posting stupid comments and embarassing moments. Mr. Steve packed the car last nite including the kids stuff, arose early this morning and made coffee and woke us all up, including mr. Nasty. So now I must eat my words but it is so worth it. On to home and dirty laundry, slobberry doggies and no more ocean swims ... Until next time.

Saturday, July 14, 2007

cabana boys with big drills

Seriously, ladies, I have tried everything I could think of to be a mobile blogger so that i could post my photos but no luck. So u will just have to trust me when I say ... Pictures forthcoming. But until then, imagine those hunky tan beach boys who set up the umbrellas and chairs with two+ -foot drills ... To sink their umbrellas, silly!

My heart goes out to chi town pal who is fantasizing that I am having an amazing family vacation with doting husband. We can all have that if we just believe...xxoo. More details later.

The really fun parts of the trip, according to the Rae boys: 1)go karts, bumper boats, bumper cars, etc. 2) Gavin's dream come true, a trip to Hooters 3) Jet ski rental















Friday, July 13, 2007

now i'm even more spoiled

Steve sent refreshments via rae boy...homemade wine cooler with white peach juice ..ahhhhh

paradise found












I'm blogging from the beach in Destin Florida... Pardon my typos-the sun is bright and I'm using my phone. Why the hell I waited so long to come here is now a distant thought as I fantasize about how I'm going to find a way to stay.

Tuesday, July 10, 2007

Transform Me

I was going to write about going to the Transformers movie; the boys wanted to go so my plan was to take them to a matinee and drop in myself on something more worthwhile. However, when I buzzed my significant other, he told me that he had bumped into a friend of ours who took his boys to see it and said it was 'awesome'! Since I trust his 'cool technical effects' opinion I decided to stay. It was pretty amazing, even if it was full of ridiculous sexual innuendo (oh - ho! Now you want to go too!). My favorite experience was when my middle son, having played the video game, did play-by-play commentary on every character . Meanwhile his older brother hissed and spat and told him to shut up. So of course I enjoyed that as well. The youngest just sat in the front and enjoyed the special effects, sound system, and butter popcorn, candy, and slushy while the heat lightning raged outside. Don't you just love summer???? I also wanted to share with you my favorite line from the movie, but unfortunately couldn't remember it and also couldn't find it after much searching on the web. It was a comment the character Glen made to his grandma. If anyone can find it or remember it, please send it! I may have to sneak back in just to find out.

Check out a real transformer: this is cool!
http://http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dut6jxCiakg

Sunday, July 8, 2007

Freak-a-lattes

OK, if yesterday I did Terminator Yoga, today I did freaky pilates. What was that? I had heard the bellydance teacher did her own form of pilates but I'm still not sure what we were doing. She had forgotten her CDs and the only one she could find was baroque organ music. The more I think about it the more I think I was dreaming . . .

Saturday, July 7, 2007

Terminator Yoga


Do you ever turn on the TV first thing in the morning (to check the weather, no doubt) and find that you are on the cable channel from the previous evening? Well, that very thing happened to me this morning. Terminator 2 was playing, and given that it had the best story line and special effects of all the movies, I could not pull away. Still, I really felt the need to stretch so I went ahead and did my sun salutation, a little pilates, and some lite weight work.Weird! I think if you can pull that together, it is simply a workout vs. a truly meditative thing. Still : it works!
Pictured asana: Side twist with handgun prop

Friday, July 6, 2007

Lambchop






Last night, my friend Sue and her 'cuz Phyllis brought the sweetest little doggie that I have ever seen over to another friend's (Sharon). He is an Eskipoo - an American Eskimo bred with a miniature poodle. Sharon's first comment is that he looks exactly like the lamb cake that I make at Easter!!! When Sue figures out her new phone (the photo you see is an imposter), she is going to forward a picture . . . of little "Lambchop" - which Phyllis, the rescuer, has affectionately dubbed the little guy. She has decided that the new owner gets to name him, because she doesn't know his name. He is six months old and was rescued because the owner is dying. Trust me, this dog is cute. And house trained. And all of 10 pounds (= little poop in the yard) Call me if you are interested . . .and the breeder has more puppies, but those will cost you!!! It's a new boutique breed!!!

Wednesday, July 4, 2007

Independence Day







I'm on a personal quest for firepower... we are in Tennesee heading towards "Big Daddy's" fireworks. It is a gorgeous beautiful day. Please say a prayer for us all! May we not start a fire ... May we cause no injuries ... And may we not get arrested all come to mind. Happy 4th! P.S. The way to a man's heart is through his firecracker(s). Have you ever seen bigger smiles?????

Tuesday, July 3, 2007

Coming Home

I rarely leave, so when I do, I get lovin! And not just from my kids and husband! Even the dogs are wagging their tails off (uh-oh, did anyone feed them while I was gone????) When I stepped off the Marta train, no one was in sight but I saw the car parked (illegally). So I went over and, yes, it was unlocked, so I threw my stuff in but no Rae boys in sight. So called Steve on the cell, I guessed we just missed each other. But the first one who spots me is Cameron, and he runs up and throws himself at me, a blizzard of kisses, am I not the lucky one??? Gavin was in the midst of some tirade, so Steve gave me a kiss and hug. John was at a friends, and when we picked him up, went into an all-out attack on his brother until I said: "Hi, John!! Did you miss me?" And then, he stopped, and rubbed my arm from the back seat, and said, "Hi, Mommy." (The mommy word is only reserved for intimate times or requests for purchases). I still have to say, seeing the dogs get so excited tells me that, indeed, I was missed! Plus, Gavin saying "Mom, Dad wouldn't get us food!" was pretty funny. But the food buyer is back now . . .

Monday, July 2, 2007

On the serious side

In addition to the fun girls weekend, and the connection with my very best friends ever (and you know who you are . . . ), today - and only because my flight got cancelled (again) I went to see my Aunt Judy, who has Alzheimer's and went into a nursing home in Evanston, IL a couple years ago. I'm pretty sure she didn't know exactly who I was, but I did make her smile and I did make her laugh. Talk about perfect timing . . . the Reverend Diann Santschi, who eased Judy's transition into a nursing home was there visiting. She remembered me, and she wanted to come back later, but I asked her please to let me be included in what she came to do, which was to anoint my aunt and pray with her. She hesitated, but I insisted. She said that my aunt had been sad, with tears, and depressed in recent days. So we sat, the three of us, and my aunt had the most unusual expression on her face, almost fearful, as Diane read to her the passages. She was so concentrated on what Diann was saying to her, stopping her only once to ask her a question. It was hard not to be emotional, and of course I was, as the scripture that she read was geared towards those who are suffering. I was fortunate enough to spend 45 minutes with my aunt, seeing glimpses of recognition. I plan on following up with Diann, who has visited Judy so frequently to pray with her, and it so calms her in this time of anxiety.

Again, love you all, susan

girls just want to have fun

Sharon outside the W hotel Chicago lakeshore . . .








I'm sitting on an Atlanta marta train and am fairly confident my travel curse is over. I have another traveling skirt that looks like camo and I think that made the difference today over another cancelled American flight (so far a record 2 in 4 days). But as there truly is a reason for everything, today was a rather perfect day.

Let me show you a few fun photos (camera phone) b4 I tell u about my special day . . .







Poetry . . .



Sharon getting a makeover at Bloomies . . .Sharon riding a lion at Capitol Grille . . . Hilda in our hotel room on the phone . . . Me behind an 'artful' dress . . . all up and down Michigan Ave. . . Evening dress at nite - isn't that cool??? . . . another art effect . . . girls having brunch/Bloody Mary Quest . . . Fancy dinner out holding rather large odd shaped lamp . . . more brunch & more bloody mary's . . .