It turned out to be nine loads of laundry. The place was empty except for a guy on his computer, just sitting on the couches provided, using the free wifi available. I used nine machines. By the time I got the last load on with sorting and putting in $2.50 in quarters, running out of quarters then finding the coin machine at the back of the store, the first load only had 15 minutes left out of 45.
I sat and read my book, well, its really the boys' book. Its an author they have been reading. Its not a bad read. The TV had on the Kate and Regis show. Do people really watch them every day? It got worse when that ended and some day time soap came on. The TV had a sign "Do not change the Channel". Not that I could see how with the TV built into the wall, with all the buttons covered. I was tempted to find a way, but by then others had arrived.
A Hispanic family with small children came in. The toddler went right for the candy machines and started screaming. Everyone ignored the screaming until she quit, realizing she was not going to get anything. They only washed their clothes, then piled the damp loads into a big grey plastic garbage can and the father and teen age son carried the heavy load out, perhaps to use their drier at home or just to hang the clothes dry.
Another man came in to transfer his load that had been sitting in one of the machines done before I even arrived. A grandmother and teen age grand daughter came in. From their conversation, the teen was on her own with a cat. The cat had peed on her laundry. Grandma was keeping her company. They were enjoying their time together.
I noticed the computer guy had slipped out when the place became more busy. I had been tempted to take my laundry home to dry, like the Hispanic family, but nine loads was nine hours at home. For about $1.50 a load I could get them all dry at once.
Then there is the problem of folding all the clothes. At home things get hung up, hopefully at once before they wrinkle. Nine loads was a lot of folding. Three loads though, were just quilts, easy loads. When that soap opera on TV started, I couldn't fold fast enough. What an irritating program. I started to get a head ache and wished I had Tom's I-Pod to listen to.
The laundry is done now, folded neatly and stacked in my car. I think I might wait until the boys get home to help unload. I can put away and hang up everything if they can bring it in. It is going to be more than nine trips if I want to avoid anything falling to the ground. Thank goodness it is a nice day, no rain puddles or mud to contend with. The boys will be home in two hours. The laundry took three hours to complete. I am glad I had a book to read, and that there were plenty of machines available or I would still be there waiting. But with nine loads I really didn't have more than 15 minutes to sit as the first load got done shortly after I got the last load started. The drying cycle gave me a little time, but that was when the families started coming in and it wasn't as quiet and restful.
Folding laundry was tedious and not one of my favorite things to do. I like to hang things up. That is why I think I will wait for the boys to help haul it all in from the car, so my tidy piles don't get wrinkles, after all that effort. It all has to be carried upstairs and put away.
I hope I don't have to do this again before next Wednesday. I think I washed enough underwear for the boys and Tom to get us through the week. Everyone had better wear their old clothes a couple of times over this week. If it doesn't stink or visibly stained wear it again.
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Saturday, October 23, 2010
feeling young again
We passed around an article at work on how to live to one hundred. Eat purple, no pop, not liking hamburgers, no marital dramas, excersize; were just a few things on the list. I don't plan to live to a hundred. We all agreed it didn't really sound that appealing anyway. To the good side, if you feel 10 years younger than you are that is helpful.
Now that I am working again I am feeling younger. I have also lost weight. those size 12 pants I just picked up are feeling loose. Being away from the house and kitchen has really helped with the weight loss. I have started using the medifast food again. I have plenty of those packets in the cupboard. It was handy when Riley and I were stuck at the hospital. At work those packets are just as handy.
I have found the Subway across the mall from us has a great soup each day. But I do hate spending money on soup when I could be saving up to buy really cute shoes out of one of our catalogues.
I did find the difficulty with catalogue shopping, buying something the store doesn't carry. I ordered a pair of really cute shoes only to find I ordered them in just slightly too wide a size. Some shoe companies run wide like Keen, other shoe companies run narrow like Romica. I was ordering from Aravon, the dress line of New Balance. I should have ordered a 9 B instead of a 9 D. Now I have to decide if I send the shoes back or try exchanging them or find someone that wants them in this size. I could wear heavy socks with them to solve the problem, but I bought them to wear with dresses and nylons. They are an adorable patent leather, and fit really comfortably in the 9 B. Next time I will only order if I know for sure that its the right size.
One of my co workers had a similar problem. She ordered shoes only to find she didn't like them once they came. They had looked really cute in the catalogue. She didn't like them as much in person.
The owners says it happens to all his female employees. Every time a new style comes in its like christmas in the store. We ooh and aah over the new shoes and talk about the details and what clients might be interested in the new shoe style. There is comfort and there is structure. Then there is eye candy, as the owner puts it.
Now that I am working again I am feeling younger. I have also lost weight. those size 12 pants I just picked up are feeling loose. Being away from the house and kitchen has really helped with the weight loss. I have started using the medifast food again. I have plenty of those packets in the cupboard. It was handy when Riley and I were stuck at the hospital. At work those packets are just as handy.
I have found the Subway across the mall from us has a great soup each day. But I do hate spending money on soup when I could be saving up to buy really cute shoes out of one of our catalogues.
I did find the difficulty with catalogue shopping, buying something the store doesn't carry. I ordered a pair of really cute shoes only to find I ordered them in just slightly too wide a size. Some shoe companies run wide like Keen, other shoe companies run narrow like Romica. I was ordering from Aravon, the dress line of New Balance. I should have ordered a 9 B instead of a 9 D. Now I have to decide if I send the shoes back or try exchanging them or find someone that wants them in this size. I could wear heavy socks with them to solve the problem, but I bought them to wear with dresses and nylons. They are an adorable patent leather, and fit really comfortably in the 9 B. Next time I will only order if I know for sure that its the right size.
One of my co workers had a similar problem. She ordered shoes only to find she didn't like them once they came. They had looked really cute in the catalogue. She didn't like them as much in person.
The owners says it happens to all his female employees. Every time a new style comes in its like christmas in the store. We ooh and aah over the new shoes and talk about the details and what clients might be interested in the new shoe style. There is comfort and there is structure. Then there is eye candy, as the owner puts it.
Tom says enough is enough. I have bought enough shoes. My new job is costing him money. I feel like I am more organized and efficient. I have bought a pair of keens that I lived in while we were traveling. My feet were exceedingly comfortable whether we were sitting five hours on a plane or walking 3 miles shopping around the track.
I bought some Sanita Clogs in a utilitarian black. These have structure support for long standing at work. I would not recommend them for long walks. I have worn them to Trevor's football games, and done some walking in them, but I bought them mostly for work.
Then there are my Romicas. These shoes were made in Bolgaria. They look Italian and chic. They are eye candy, but comfortable. Which in our store means little support. You can wear them for short durations. I can wear them once in a while all day. But I have found for an all day shoe, something like my clogs with some internal arch support, is preferable. But these Romica's are adorable. I feel beautiful when I wear them, fashionable.
I would never have bought this many shoes, but I don't think Tom realized how rarely I really went shopping. And when I did shop, it was usually thrift stores. I was desperately in need of shoes.
I would buy one thing at my CABI parties, a skirt or top usually, then match it to a bunch of $3 or $4 tops or bottoms from the thrift store. Honestly people donate items with the tags still attached sometimes. Name brands I would never purchase, as the price was too expensive in the store. One ketchup spill or coffee spill or a pen going through the wash and the clothes are toast. I hate throwing away good money. Those accidents happen all the time at our house.
I have started wheening out my closet of old and tired and stained. It is amazing how much can be tossed. I will have a lot of room by the time I am done. Stains seem to be the most common problem. That and shrinkage. Shrinkage is not because I have gained weight, but I must have my dryer set too hot. My tops when I buy them, hit me at my hips. I wash these tops and my belly shows bellow the hem. I don't know what I do wrong, but tops just shrink when I wash them. It drives me crazy.
Trevor wears all of Tom's clothes now. The boys have moved on in shoe sizes though. Grandpa George had some really nice shoes from his work days that have now become the boy's dress shoes.
Trevor had a music concert last night. He wore Tom's pants and dress shirt and Daddy George's shoes. I had called from work and asked that Tom help get Trevor ready. I had mentioned that the shoes need to be black. Tom said Trevor could wear his football cleats if he couldn't find black shoes that fit. Thanks to Daddy George, we can go another year before investing in black shoes just for band. I was grateful to come home and find Trevor ready to go in the appropriate black shoes.
The new vitamin regime and work has revitalized me. The change is fantastic. Tom even came home from work and put the children to their after school chores. The dishes were washed and dinner was ready when I came home. I did have to do the clean up from cooking. But it is not the same when someone else cooks and you do the cleaning up. That is a fair exchange. I used to get so depressed at doing the dinner and the clean up, but that was my job, tedious. Now everyone is pitching in. Tom is getting involved and the boys are doing what they are supposed to without me getting mad each time to get them to do what they are supposed to be doing.
The sun is shining through the window and I am feeling good. I am off to do laundry as our machine broke and the repair man can't come until next Wednesday, a week away. Of course you are never up on laundry when the machine breaks. In our house one day is at least two loads. The cat decided to vomit on my bed this morning so that just added to the volume. But when you are in a good mood, it is humorous rather than tormenting. I will take a book and lots of change and enjoy hanging out like Tom and I did when we had our first apartment together and no laundry facilities.
I did have to yell at the boys to collect all their dirty cloths from the crevices of their rooms this morning. I told them to pile all the dirty laundry on the front porch. I can barely get out my door now. It may take two trips in the jeep to get it all done. I hope no one is at the laundry mat as I will want to use all the machines.
Thursday, October 21, 2010
One bad apple
I do need to vent about one small incident that happened at the race. This is a Southern thing we don't experience anymore in the North west or at least rarely does it happen anymore. North Carolina is tobacco country. Smoking is pretty common still. They smoke at the track.
In front of us, before the race started a man lit up. I asked if he could put out his cigarette as the children behind him were immune compromised. "Of course" he said kindly. I bought him a beer when I went to get one for Tom as a thank you. He returned the favor later.
The two women sitting behind Justin's family were not as nice. They refused to put out their cigarettes even after I explained these children were sick. They made it a point to keep their cigarettes constantly lit. Blowing smoke right at Justin's family. Holding the cigarettes barely inches from the seats. One woman also kept her feet up on the chairs. I told the people sitting on both sides that these women that they would not put out their cigarettes for our sick children. They all claimed not to know the women.
I was so upset. Justin's family had to get up and leave. He came back later and sat at the far end of our row with Nathan's family protecting him, but his mother and grandmother had left for good. Chased away by the insensitivity of the women sitting behind us.
Nathan's Mom called her ex sitting in a different location to come join us. He was a big man and sat right down in front of those smokers. The cigarettes went out and one of the women left shortly and did not return. I only wished I had gotten a security guard. I was kind of stuck in the middle of the row, but I still should have made the effort. I was as close to a brawl as I could get. Tom was oblivious with his head set on and the boys on his far side away from the issue.
Nathan's mom paid me the compliment later of saying she was impressed that I would defend a stranger's child so vigorously. She wouldn't want to mess with my own boys if that was what I do for strangers.
You had better believe it. I called myself a tiger once when it comes to defense of my children. But that doesn't mean I wont acknowledge my children's flaws or not make them behave to the best of my abilities.
It was a good thing that woman left when Nathan's Dad arrived because I was in a mood to call her out if she had still been sitting there. I was furious she had chased a boy with cancer and his family away from his special night. I sat and cried for a while losing interest in the race.
I am sure Amy would have handled it had she still been at the track, but after her night with Danial's family she was exhausted and had cut out early before these women lit up. Amy said usually if she runs into smokers like this she gets out masks for the kids so the smokers get the point. Then she calls security if that doesn't work. I had gotten the impression from Tom that smoking was OK and I didn't have much redress. It turns out that even if there were lots of smokers in their seat, they are supposed to leave their seats and smoke outside the stadium.
It wouldn't have been so bad if they hadn't been sitting right behind Justin and his family. And then to be so rude. I still want to hit someone over it. Tom told me not to let it taint our experience. They were so evil, though. I wondered if they targeted Justin because he was with women who could not defend themselves and Hispanic. Next time I am getting security and not letting bullies win.
Thank goodness Justin came back and was able to join Nathan's family for the rest of the race. I do feel good though that at least I tried and in the end we all did chase the B..... away. Just not soon enough.
In front of us, before the race started a man lit up. I asked if he could put out his cigarette as the children behind him were immune compromised. "Of course" he said kindly. I bought him a beer when I went to get one for Tom as a thank you. He returned the favor later.
The two women sitting behind Justin's family were not as nice. They refused to put out their cigarettes even after I explained these children were sick. They made it a point to keep their cigarettes constantly lit. Blowing smoke right at Justin's family. Holding the cigarettes barely inches from the seats. One woman also kept her feet up on the chairs. I told the people sitting on both sides that these women that they would not put out their cigarettes for our sick children. They all claimed not to know the women.
I was so upset. Justin's family had to get up and leave. He came back later and sat at the far end of our row with Nathan's family protecting him, but his mother and grandmother had left for good. Chased away by the insensitivity of the women sitting behind us.
Nathan's Mom called her ex sitting in a different location to come join us. He was a big man and sat right down in front of those smokers. The cigarettes went out and one of the women left shortly and did not return. I only wished I had gotten a security guard. I was kind of stuck in the middle of the row, but I still should have made the effort. I was as close to a brawl as I could get. Tom was oblivious with his head set on and the boys on his far side away from the issue.
Nathan's mom paid me the compliment later of saying she was impressed that I would defend a stranger's child so vigorously. She wouldn't want to mess with my own boys if that was what I do for strangers.
You had better believe it. I called myself a tiger once when it comes to defense of my children. But that doesn't mean I wont acknowledge my children's flaws or not make them behave to the best of my abilities.
It was a good thing that woman left when Nathan's Dad arrived because I was in a mood to call her out if she had still been sitting there. I was furious she had chased a boy with cancer and his family away from his special night. I sat and cried for a while losing interest in the race.
I am sure Amy would have handled it had she still been at the track, but after her night with Danial's family she was exhausted and had cut out early before these women lit up. Amy said usually if she runs into smokers like this she gets out masks for the kids so the smokers get the point. Then she calls security if that doesn't work. I had gotten the impression from Tom that smoking was OK and I didn't have much redress. It turns out that even if there were lots of smokers in their seat, they are supposed to leave their seats and smoke outside the stadium.
It wouldn't have been so bad if they hadn't been sitting right behind Justin and his family. And then to be so rude. I still want to hit someone over it. Tom told me not to let it taint our experience. They were so evil, though. I wondered if they targeted Justin because he was with women who could not defend themselves and Hispanic. Next time I am getting security and not letting bullies win.
Thank goodness Justin came back and was able to join Nathan's family for the rest of the race. I do feel good though that at least I tried and in the end we all did chase the B..... away. Just not soon enough.
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Treasures
I have received great comfort from a beautiful prayer shawl I received last year when Riley got sick. When we departed the house I grabbed it to take with me on our trip. I love swathing myself in its warmth and softness when I am curled up in the airplane seats. I am still uncomfortable with flying. The fact that forcing air under the wings keeps the plane afloat does not give me great comfort. This soft fuzzy big shawl does give me comfort.
Another special treasure I brought from home was a plaid flannel pillow case a girlfriend had made for Riley while he was in the hospital. It added some color to our sterile white room. I love the feel of flannel. The pillow makes our hotel room feel more like home. Just bringing the pillow case doesn't take up much room in the luggage. The shawl and pillow case are loving reminders of everyone back home rooting for us.
Our coordinator, Amy, definitely has found her calling. She is one of those people who remembers names and knows everyone. As we drive around in the golf cart she whispers names of people as we pass them. Drivers, Nascar officials, famous names and faces that we should recognize. We are in the sacred grounds of Nascar, the inner circle of the track.
I am so out of my element. The noise and chaose, They have the little painted yellow lines. I stay well within them walking, afraid I will get run over by the golf carts jetting by on important pre race business. Or the big pit boxes that could crush you with their size and weight as they are rolled out to be put in place.
On our tour of the garages. Riley is invited into Dale Jr.'s "hauler". This is a big semi that carries two cars hydro lifted into storage above the rig. The interior is a narrow hallway lined with closets. The closets contain every piece of equipment that might be needed to repair the car during the race, including a spare engine. The crew is there having lunch at a small counter built in at the beginning of the hall. Everything glistens clean.
Dale's spare helmets sit at the other end of the long hall at another smaller counter built in to the cabinets . He has skulls and crossbones on the back of his practice helmets, just for fun. Up a short flight of 6 narrow stairs is the office. An 8 x8 room with one wall lined with a counter for computers. Three people can work at that space if they squeeze. Above them are more cabinets and two flat screen TVs going with the track cameras on one screen and the other has Nascar data and weather reports. Across from this working counter is a built in couch, in black leather. Above the couch is a wall mirror to give the illusion of more light and space. There are no windows at all.
It is a tight well organized space. Not an inch of waisted area. Originally when Amy talked about going to the haulers I thought it was some nick name. I had no idea what she was talking about. She even pointed out the Nascar hauler, saying if you get invited to that hauler you are in trouble and going to get yelled at. In my ignorance I asked if that was why they are called "hollers". She cracked up with a smile. Hauler is just that, a semi hauler that hauls the cars. With that southern accent I thought it was some sort of name for the room where drivers and crew yell at each other. You need to yell to be heard around here.
They asked us if we would be willing to be filmed for a Make a wish commercial. Talk about how we were involved and what it meant to us. I told them we would do it. they only wanted the make a wish child and one parent. Riley was nervous. We were put in a small sound proof dark room with a giant camera in our face and an "interrogation light" as Riley put it. I don't think we did really well. Riley was pretty reticent and uncomfortable. I don't think I told our story with enough emotion that they were looking for, warm fuzzies to inspire more people to support the program and become involved. Tom didn't want to do it, but I felt that we should after all that they were doing for us. It was the least we could do, and it was made clear it was voluntary.
There were other families on the trip. Danial was meeting Tony Stewart. Nathan was meeting Casey Cane. Justin was Meeting Juan Montoya. We all were at the same hotel. It was a wonderful opportunity to bond and talk to the other moms, to hear their stories.
Nathan was recovering from Hodgkin's. Thick scars covered his neck. Riley in his tactless way asked right out what the scars are for. Its my fault. I have been so open about discussing Riley, that I forgot that others may not be as comfortable with public awareness. Tom was the only Dad on the trip. Nathan was there with his Aunt and Mother. He was 13. His father lived in South Carolina. His brother, age 10, was supposed to come on the trip. A week before they were to leave his brother freaked out about flying and refused to come. He would not get on the plane. Nathan called him every day to give him updates. I am sure he regretted that decision not to go. His dad had earned tickets by playing in a competition to change a tire in 8 seconds. He sat in another area at the race, but came over and joined us mid way through the evening. He was a big guy. It amazes me to see the healthy parents then see these frail sick kids. You wonder what it was that set their illness off.
Justin's family was from the Bronks. You could tell they were on a frugal budget. He came with his Grandmother and Mother and sister. He was 8 and suffered from a clotting disorder. You could see his veins through his skin. He looked frail in his swim trunks. He had a runny nose one day. What came out was tinted red. His family had an interpreter as they spoke limited English. He loved the cars and really just wanted to hang in the garages.
We shared a spare head set with Justin, putting him on a splinter and sharing a radio. It didn't take long for Justin to learn how to punch in the driver's numbers and listen to them talk. I don't know how the parents could stand the noise, those that did not have head sets to muffle the roar.
Danial was our sad moment. He was in a wheel chair the whole time. The worry was he would not be strong enough to participate. Amy had asked his mom if their meet and greet date should be moved up and her reply was "No, meeting Tony Stewart was the only thing keeping him on this earth." She was right. After Danial met Tony Stewart, Danial collapsed and had to be life flighted home to Philadelphia. His parents wanted him to die at home with his family around him.
When we met Danial. He had a Tony Stewart Baseball cap on to hide his bald head or protect it from the sun. His skin color was a faint florescent green like a glow stick at a party. He looked sick and he had no energy. He did not remember meeting Tony Stewart. Tony was going to fly up this week to Philly, after the race, if Danial was still on this earth and see him again. Amy spent the night at the hospital with his family until he was flown home. She looked exhausted and had spent the night crying with the family. She was a Steel Magnolia. This is not the first child she has had die on a wish trip. She is strong for all of us.
Riley looks so healthy compared to the rest. He and Trevor wrestle in the pool at the hotel, while I yell at them to quit it. I remind myself we are not done yet, we are only mid way through our own trials. And we plan to pay this wonderful gift forward. There are many sick children with families needing this love to boost them along.
Another special treasure I brought from home was a plaid flannel pillow case a girlfriend had made for Riley while he was in the hospital. It added some color to our sterile white room. I love the feel of flannel. The pillow makes our hotel room feel more like home. Just bringing the pillow case doesn't take up much room in the luggage. The shawl and pillow case are loving reminders of everyone back home rooting for us.
Our coordinator, Amy, definitely has found her calling. She is one of those people who remembers names and knows everyone. As we drive around in the golf cart she whispers names of people as we pass them. Drivers, Nascar officials, famous names and faces that we should recognize. We are in the sacred grounds of Nascar, the inner circle of the track.
I am so out of my element. The noise and chaose, They have the little painted yellow lines. I stay well within them walking, afraid I will get run over by the golf carts jetting by on important pre race business. Or the big pit boxes that could crush you with their size and weight as they are rolled out to be put in place.
On our tour of the garages. Riley is invited into Dale Jr.'s "hauler". This is a big semi that carries two cars hydro lifted into storage above the rig. The interior is a narrow hallway lined with closets. The closets contain every piece of equipment that might be needed to repair the car during the race, including a spare engine. The crew is there having lunch at a small counter built in at the beginning of the hall. Everything glistens clean.
Dale's spare helmets sit at the other end of the long hall at another smaller counter built in to the cabinets . He has skulls and crossbones on the back of his practice helmets, just for fun. Up a short flight of 6 narrow stairs is the office. An 8 x8 room with one wall lined with a counter for computers. Three people can work at that space if they squeeze. Above them are more cabinets and two flat screen TVs going with the track cameras on one screen and the other has Nascar data and weather reports. Across from this working counter is a built in couch, in black leather. Above the couch is a wall mirror to give the illusion of more light and space. There are no windows at all.
It is a tight well organized space. Not an inch of waisted area. Originally when Amy talked about going to the haulers I thought it was some nick name. I had no idea what she was talking about. She even pointed out the Nascar hauler, saying if you get invited to that hauler you are in trouble and going to get yelled at. In my ignorance I asked if that was why they are called "hollers". She cracked up with a smile. Hauler is just that, a semi hauler that hauls the cars. With that southern accent I thought it was some sort of name for the room where drivers and crew yell at each other. You need to yell to be heard around here.
They asked us if we would be willing to be filmed for a Make a wish commercial. Talk about how we were involved and what it meant to us. I told them we would do it. they only wanted the make a wish child and one parent. Riley was nervous. We were put in a small sound proof dark room with a giant camera in our face and an "interrogation light" as Riley put it. I don't think we did really well. Riley was pretty reticent and uncomfortable. I don't think I told our story with enough emotion that they were looking for, warm fuzzies to inspire more people to support the program and become involved. Tom didn't want to do it, but I felt that we should after all that they were doing for us. It was the least we could do, and it was made clear it was voluntary.
There were other families on the trip. Danial was meeting Tony Stewart. Nathan was meeting Casey Cane. Justin was Meeting Juan Montoya. We all were at the same hotel. It was a wonderful opportunity to bond and talk to the other moms, to hear their stories.
Nathan was recovering from Hodgkin's. Thick scars covered his neck. Riley in his tactless way asked right out what the scars are for. Its my fault. I have been so open about discussing Riley, that I forgot that others may not be as comfortable with public awareness. Tom was the only Dad on the trip. Nathan was there with his Aunt and Mother. He was 13. His father lived in South Carolina. His brother, age 10, was supposed to come on the trip. A week before they were to leave his brother freaked out about flying and refused to come. He would not get on the plane. Nathan called him every day to give him updates. I am sure he regretted that decision not to go. His dad had earned tickets by playing in a competition to change a tire in 8 seconds. He sat in another area at the race, but came over and joined us mid way through the evening. He was a big guy. It amazes me to see the healthy parents then see these frail sick kids. You wonder what it was that set their illness off.
Justin's family was from the Bronks. You could tell they were on a frugal budget. He came with his Grandmother and Mother and sister. He was 8 and suffered from a clotting disorder. You could see his veins through his skin. He looked frail in his swim trunks. He had a runny nose one day. What came out was tinted red. His family had an interpreter as they spoke limited English. He loved the cars and really just wanted to hang in the garages.
We shared a spare head set with Justin, putting him on a splinter and sharing a radio. It didn't take long for Justin to learn how to punch in the driver's numbers and listen to them talk. I don't know how the parents could stand the noise, those that did not have head sets to muffle the roar.
Danial was our sad moment. He was in a wheel chair the whole time. The worry was he would not be strong enough to participate. Amy had asked his mom if their meet and greet date should be moved up and her reply was "No, meeting Tony Stewart was the only thing keeping him on this earth." She was right. After Danial met Tony Stewart, Danial collapsed and had to be life flighted home to Philadelphia. His parents wanted him to die at home with his family around him.
When we met Danial. He had a Tony Stewart Baseball cap on to hide his bald head or protect it from the sun. His skin color was a faint florescent green like a glow stick at a party. He looked sick and he had no energy. He did not remember meeting Tony Stewart. Tony was going to fly up this week to Philly, after the race, if Danial was still on this earth and see him again. Amy spent the night at the hospital with his family until he was flown home. She looked exhausted and had spent the night crying with the family. She was a Steel Magnolia. This is not the first child she has had die on a wish trip. She is strong for all of us.
Riley looks so healthy compared to the rest. He and Trevor wrestle in the pool at the hotel, while I yell at them to quit it. I remind myself we are not done yet, we are only mid way through our own trials. And we plan to pay this wonderful gift forward. There are many sick children with families needing this love to boost them along.
Meet and Greet
Thursday we met our Make a Wish coordinator. I would call Amy a steel magnolia. She is a southern woman of great presence and determination. She has been doing Make a Wish for 11 years. She is one of the national coordinators, traveling all over the country planning down to the finest detail each child's wish. She wants what she wants and wont take no for an answer.
She was going for a college degree and started volunteering for make a wish. When this position as regional coordinator came open she quit school and moved in with her parents for a while since non profit pays squat. She does make some money now as her position is a payed position. But it is definitely a life choice working in a non profit.
She met us after breakfast with our itinerary. She also wanted to check our questions and our appearance. We were being vetted. A driver can't have pictures taken if another sponsor is in the picture. Amy wanted to check our outfits to make sure there was no conflict of interest. She loved the clothes, no conflicts. She also wanted to check the questions that Riley was going to ask and help come up with questions if Riley didn't have any.
When meeting a complete stranger and a celebrity at that. It helps to have some conversation points to discuss. But none of the questions could be controversial, not that we had any. Tom was going to ask when Dale was ever going to win a race again. But we all booed him.
After Amy left saying she would meet us at 2:45 at gate 2 to escort us into the inner circle of the track, we went to reconnoiter the area. Tom wanted to scope everything out. We headed to the track. The track itself was not open yet when we got there, but the vendors were open and looking for business. Riley bought a Dale Jr camouflage jacket. Tom got us all hats for our drivers. He wanted me to pick a driver but I don't feel strongly about any of them. It would be hard for me to root for anyone other than Junior as he was meeting my son.
I do like Tony Stewart who is #14 now , driving the Old Spice car. Joey Lagano is the rookie that took over his ride in 20 for Home Depot. I like the Home Depot. I like the sponsors, and appreciate the money they spend on racing to get their advertising out there. The sport is a terrific blend of American business and sportsmanship.
We met Amy at the designated time. She took us in on a golf cart. We went in a tunnel under the tracks and up the other side. In the middle are crammed into a confined space, RVs and the garages of the racers. It was controled caose. We were taken to an RV where the media sometimes interviews drivers. It was right next to the track where the cars exit to the garages. We could see the drivers practicing twenty feet away. The noise was intense. I had ear plugs in most of the time. Inside the RV the sound was muted slightly, but the air conditioning was blaring and the place cold.
Cream Tiles covered the floors. A leather sectional with built in recliner was on one wall. Trevor immediately found the recliner buttons and thought that was way cool. On the other wall was a small kitchen area with granite counters. Water and pop were available in the refridgerator. You could own this RV for a mere $296,000.
Tom and Riley sat in the captains chairs trying to catch pitures of the cars wizzing by in front of them with Tom's cell phone and Riley's camera and cell phone. By the time you click the car is no longer in the frame. You almost need to click before they are in the picture, going 190 miles an hour.
Dale lives about 45 minutes away from this track if you were to drive. He flew. A helicopter picked him up at home and brought him in 10 minutes. He wore blue jeans and a green 88 t-shirt. A spare shirt was draped over his shoulder. He was very relaxed and casual. He made the whole event seem really relaxed. Riley was shivering from the air conditioning, but handled himself with poise. I could tell he really felt on the spot. Meeting a person you see in commercials and interviewed on TV puts a lot of pressure on to perform. Riley stood up to the task.
Amy choriographed the seating arrangements. I was so out of my element, I opted for the chair furthest away and let Tom sit on the couch with the boys. Tom was thrilled. Trevor had been instructed by his father to sit quietly which he was content to do. Riley told them he would give them the opportunity to ask questions at some point.
The list of questions were in Riley's hands.
Riley wanted to know if Dale Jr ever worked on the cars himself. He wanted to know what he did in his personal time. Turns out Dale is a hunter. He hunts up in Montana upon occasion.
Riley wanted to know why the number change to 88. The sponsors own the numbers so change sponsors change numbers.
What is your favorite football team both college and Pro. I can't even remember the answers as I found it so not interesting.
What inspired you to race. His Dad
Do you watch reruns of the race. He has them on file, but usually not
Do you choose the color schemes on the cars. Yes, Dale designs the whole look, "wouldn't want it to look too girly"
Then Riley started winging it off the the top of his head
Why did you grow your beard. "Because I could" Dale says as he runs his hands over the scruff. We laugh as Riley fondles his own scruffy mustach with a grin.
What do you do when you have to pee during the race? Well its 120 degrees in the car so you sweat a lot and really don't need to go pee. But if you ever do, you just got to go. The race wont stop for you.
A fan blows air from outside onto the driver's neck and the lower back to help cool him off a little.
It was a good twenty minutes or so that Dale spent with us. Amy had explained his days are booked down to the minute. He was very personable and friendly. We did not feel rushed or under pressure. We were his 211th make a wish child.
We shook hands and everyone left. Dale to go to his garage and check on the car and we to go back to the outer world to watch the race qualifying from a distance. It was a lovely day. Riley did really well. He made us proud.
Jeff Gordon won the pole so Tom was happy. He set the boys up with radios and head sets so we could listen to the drivers talking to their pit crews. It was one of the things he did while we where checking out the vendors earlier. I needed the head set to drown out the noise noise noise of monster engines. I even had my ear plugs on underneath the head sets because the head sets were not enough. One channel has commentary going so at least I could follow along on what was happening.
We headed back to the hotel to find dinner after qualifying. Amy told us that the Texas Roadhouse across from our hotel would treat well if we wanted to go there. Ask for the manager Kevin. Well kevin was really friendly. Tom and he hit it off like they had known each other for years. Kevin is in a fantasy football club just like Tom. They literally spent hours discussing the topic. The restaurant was closed by the time we left and walked back to the hotel. The boys had gone back hours earlier to watch TV.
The night before we had gone to the Applebees down the road as it was the only resaurant open after ten Wednesday night. The waiter there had been really friendly also. He had played some football in college. The clerk at Walmart wanted to know about our Make a Wish buttons. When we explained the program she jokingly wanted to know if we could set her up to meet Oprah or Bionce. Riley said everyone was so friendly here in the south. Its true, we were treated like honored guests where ever we went.
One of the vendors on Thursday recognized me from Applebees the day before. He said it was the Make a Wish buttons that identified us. He wished us well.
Friday was the Nationwide race. Attendance was down 63%. We had VIP parking really close to the track with easy access. I loved the convenience. We were traveling with sweatshirts and head sets having the car close by allowed us to leave stuff in the car and come back for it later. The crowds were not nearly as huge as I had been lead to believe, but I think that might have been due to low attendence. I spent a lot of time getting food or browsing the vendors. I don't like the crashes, and watching cars drive fast is fascinating only for so long. My boys loved it though, and that is what counts.
I did get caught up in the crowds arriving close to race time. Open containers of beer were common. People were out to have a good time, as were we.
I still can't quite get over the noise. half the audience did not even have ear plugs. I could barely stand it muffled with earplugs and a good head set on top of that. That radio system was worth every penny. It was the only thing that kept me tuned in. I found the security band signal and listened to the orders for special pick ups of wheelchairs or crutches or go change a blown light or police needed for a fight. That was entertaining.
Dale likes to talk to his pit crew so I would periodicaly tune in to his station 88. Tom had preprogrammed in all the drivers so you just had to punch their numbers in and their band would come up. Some drivers don't talk much though. Tune in when they start to pit and you can hear them discussing how many tires to take or air pressure adjustments. You can also hear them cuss out Nascar when they get flagged for speeding
Nascar will throw cautions for debri on the track as it can get up on the engine intakes and overheat the engines by not allowing air flow. Some times they just say that and throw a caution to make the races more interesting. A restart is very exciting and often has accidents, where when the cars are spread out on the track they are less likely to spin out and bump.
I don't like the crashing though. Seeing an out of control car going 180 mile an hour, is just too scary. I understand the appeal. People that watch rodeo bloopers and extreme sports probably like watching for the crashes. I like the symphony and my hearing. But I think my boys liked it and that is all that counts for this weekend.
She was going for a college degree and started volunteering for make a wish. When this position as regional coordinator came open she quit school and moved in with her parents for a while since non profit pays squat. She does make some money now as her position is a payed position. But it is definitely a life choice working in a non profit.
She met us after breakfast with our itinerary. She also wanted to check our questions and our appearance. We were being vetted. A driver can't have pictures taken if another sponsor is in the picture. Amy wanted to check our outfits to make sure there was no conflict of interest. She loved the clothes, no conflicts. She also wanted to check the questions that Riley was going to ask and help come up with questions if Riley didn't have any.
When meeting a complete stranger and a celebrity at that. It helps to have some conversation points to discuss. But none of the questions could be controversial, not that we had any. Tom was going to ask when Dale was ever going to win a race again. But we all booed him.
After Amy left saying she would meet us at 2:45 at gate 2 to escort us into the inner circle of the track, we went to reconnoiter the area. Tom wanted to scope everything out. We headed to the track. The track itself was not open yet when we got there, but the vendors were open and looking for business. Riley bought a Dale Jr camouflage jacket. Tom got us all hats for our drivers. He wanted me to pick a driver but I don't feel strongly about any of them. It would be hard for me to root for anyone other than Junior as he was meeting my son.
I do like Tony Stewart who is #14 now , driving the Old Spice car. Joey Lagano is the rookie that took over his ride in 20 for Home Depot. I like the Home Depot. I like the sponsors, and appreciate the money they spend on racing to get their advertising out there. The sport is a terrific blend of American business and sportsmanship.
We met Amy at the designated time. She took us in on a golf cart. We went in a tunnel under the tracks and up the other side. In the middle are crammed into a confined space, RVs and the garages of the racers. It was controled caose. We were taken to an RV where the media sometimes interviews drivers. It was right next to the track where the cars exit to the garages. We could see the drivers practicing twenty feet away. The noise was intense. I had ear plugs in most of the time. Inside the RV the sound was muted slightly, but the air conditioning was blaring and the place cold.
Cream Tiles covered the floors. A leather sectional with built in recliner was on one wall. Trevor immediately found the recliner buttons and thought that was way cool. On the other wall was a small kitchen area with granite counters. Water and pop were available in the refridgerator. You could own this RV for a mere $296,000.
Tom and Riley sat in the captains chairs trying to catch pitures of the cars wizzing by in front of them with Tom's cell phone and Riley's camera and cell phone. By the time you click the car is no longer in the frame. You almost need to click before they are in the picture, going 190 miles an hour.
Dale lives about 45 minutes away from this track if you were to drive. He flew. A helicopter picked him up at home and brought him in 10 minutes. He wore blue jeans and a green 88 t-shirt. A spare shirt was draped over his shoulder. He was very relaxed and casual. He made the whole event seem really relaxed. Riley was shivering from the air conditioning, but handled himself with poise. I could tell he really felt on the spot. Meeting a person you see in commercials and interviewed on TV puts a lot of pressure on to perform. Riley stood up to the task.
Amy choriographed the seating arrangements. I was so out of my element, I opted for the chair furthest away and let Tom sit on the couch with the boys. Tom was thrilled. Trevor had been instructed by his father to sit quietly which he was content to do. Riley told them he would give them the opportunity to ask questions at some point.
The list of questions were in Riley's hands.
Riley wanted to know if Dale Jr ever worked on the cars himself. He wanted to know what he did in his personal time. Turns out Dale is a hunter. He hunts up in Montana upon occasion.
Riley wanted to know why the number change to 88. The sponsors own the numbers so change sponsors change numbers.
What is your favorite football team both college and Pro. I can't even remember the answers as I found it so not interesting.
What inspired you to race. His Dad
Do you watch reruns of the race. He has them on file, but usually not
Do you choose the color schemes on the cars. Yes, Dale designs the whole look, "wouldn't want it to look too girly"
Then Riley started winging it off the the top of his head
Why did you grow your beard. "Because I could" Dale says as he runs his hands over the scruff. We laugh as Riley fondles his own scruffy mustach with a grin.
What do you do when you have to pee during the race? Well its 120 degrees in the car so you sweat a lot and really don't need to go pee. But if you ever do, you just got to go. The race wont stop for you.
A fan blows air from outside onto the driver's neck and the lower back to help cool him off a little.
It was a good twenty minutes or so that Dale spent with us. Amy had explained his days are booked down to the minute. He was very personable and friendly. We did not feel rushed or under pressure. We were his 211th make a wish child.
We shook hands and everyone left. Dale to go to his garage and check on the car and we to go back to the outer world to watch the race qualifying from a distance. It was a lovely day. Riley did really well. He made us proud.
Jeff Gordon won the pole so Tom was happy. He set the boys up with radios and head sets so we could listen to the drivers talking to their pit crews. It was one of the things he did while we where checking out the vendors earlier. I needed the head set to drown out the noise noise noise of monster engines. I even had my ear plugs on underneath the head sets because the head sets were not enough. One channel has commentary going so at least I could follow along on what was happening.
We headed back to the hotel to find dinner after qualifying. Amy told us that the Texas Roadhouse across from our hotel would treat well if we wanted to go there. Ask for the manager Kevin. Well kevin was really friendly. Tom and he hit it off like they had known each other for years. Kevin is in a fantasy football club just like Tom. They literally spent hours discussing the topic. The restaurant was closed by the time we left and walked back to the hotel. The boys had gone back hours earlier to watch TV.
The night before we had gone to the Applebees down the road as it was the only resaurant open after ten Wednesday night. The waiter there had been really friendly also. He had played some football in college. The clerk at Walmart wanted to know about our Make a Wish buttons. When we explained the program she jokingly wanted to know if we could set her up to meet Oprah or Bionce. Riley said everyone was so friendly here in the south. Its true, we were treated like honored guests where ever we went.
One of the vendors on Thursday recognized me from Applebees the day before. He said it was the Make a Wish buttons that identified us. He wished us well.
Friday was the Nationwide race. Attendance was down 63%. We had VIP parking really close to the track with easy access. I loved the convenience. We were traveling with sweatshirts and head sets having the car close by allowed us to leave stuff in the car and come back for it later. The crowds were not nearly as huge as I had been lead to believe, but I think that might have been due to low attendence. I spent a lot of time getting food or browsing the vendors. I don't like the crashes, and watching cars drive fast is fascinating only for so long. My boys loved it though, and that is what counts.
I did get caught up in the crowds arriving close to race time. Open containers of beer were common. People were out to have a good time, as were we.
I still can't quite get over the noise. half the audience did not even have ear plugs. I could barely stand it muffled with earplugs and a good head set on top of that. That radio system was worth every penny. It was the only thing that kept me tuned in. I found the security band signal and listened to the orders for special pick ups of wheelchairs or crutches or go change a blown light or police needed for a fight. That was entertaining.
Dale likes to talk to his pit crew so I would periodicaly tune in to his station 88. Tom had preprogrammed in all the drivers so you just had to punch their numbers in and their band would come up. Some drivers don't talk much though. Tune in when they start to pit and you can hear them discussing how many tires to take or air pressure adjustments. You can also hear them cuss out Nascar when they get flagged for speeding
Nascar will throw cautions for debri on the track as it can get up on the engine intakes and overheat the engines by not allowing air flow. Some times they just say that and throw a caution to make the races more interesting. A restart is very exciting and often has accidents, where when the cars are spread out on the track they are less likely to spin out and bump.
I don't like the crashing though. Seeing an out of control car going 180 mile an hour, is just too scary. I understand the appeal. People that watch rodeo bloopers and extreme sports probably like watching for the crashes. I like the symphony and my hearing. But I think my boys liked it and that is all that counts for this weekend.
Adventure begins
The stretch limo arrived at 6:15 am to take us to the airport. You don't know if you get the taxi or the stretch until they come. The boys were duly impressed. Riley and Trevor had to examine and touch everything.
The day before I had to work then PTA had questions. I had been asked to attend as I had some of the answers. There was packing to do for all of us. I had been doing laundry, trying to stay up on the clean clothes to make packing easier. Trevor's fall back is just to take clothes out of his father's suitcase while we travel. It was a long day with everyone wound up and excited for the trip to begin.
I was having a hard time deciding what to pack. Nascar is a blue jean and tee shirt affair. But I am a dress up girl. I couldn't meet a celebrity wearing just casual clothes. I packed some dress slacks as my compromise.
The suitcases are put in the trunk of the limo. It is pitch dark still, now that it is October. We are bundled up in jackets against the cold. I find the oldies station 106.7 to listen to on the ride.
I can't help feeling that heart strings in my chest. The thin wire that travels up the rib cage through the back of the neck to behind the ears. Your sinuses feel full and your eyes start to water when the string tightens. We wouldn't be doing this trip if Riley were not facing such a serious illness. We are mid way through treatment with that dark cloud hanging over us always. I watch the boys enjoying the limo ride.
We arrive at the airport to be greeted by one of our make a wish contacts. Its 7:00 am and she is bright and cheerful and there to assist us with check in. AAh, to have that energy and youth again. After we get our tickets we say goodbye to our escort. We get through security without incident.
Trevor was in the middle of a library book at home. I banned him from taking it on the trip and he refused to start another book while he was in the middle of this one. I told him we would try and find a copy at Powells book store at the airport. No such luck. This particular book was not available. We found some alternatives. Pretty soon I am trying to find room for a stack of books for every member of our little party. Riley wanted Homer's The Odyssey since they are starting that next at school. Powell's didn't have a copy at this store so he picked two other books as alternative reading. We ended up with a heavy pile.
Tom meanwhile has gone off to find a coffee. We join him at Gustavs for a quick breakfast for the boys. Trevor orders a croissant sandwich with eggs and ham. Riley has a huge french toast platter.
We are schlepping our bags through the airport. US Airways charges $25 to check bags. If you take the bags all the way to the gate and check them at the plane, there is no charge. $25 per person buys us more souvenirs later.
In my bag is a duffel rolled up. So we have a spare bag for goodies on the way home. I had to laugh at Riley. As we unloaded the limo, out came his 50 pound backpack. He had brought everything from school, in case he found time to study. He was dragging that heavy bag with him across the country. I wouldn't want to carry it.
Riley voluntarily brings his work. Trevor tried to leave his on the table at home, but I saw it and grabbed the homework for later. Trevor is not happy to hear his assignments made the trip.
Once on the plane, we get settle in. Maintenance is in the cockpit, but I am told by one of the attendants that when we land in Philadelphia, if Riley would like to come up and see the pilot, he is welcome.
Some how I got lucky. My seat is on the aisle across from Tom and the boys. Tom has to sit in the middle between them. I am loving the space. The plane is full. I don't think there was a first class seat available had Tom tried to get an upgrade, which he usually likes to do.
The day before I had to work then PTA had questions. I had been asked to attend as I had some of the answers. There was packing to do for all of us. I had been doing laundry, trying to stay up on the clean clothes to make packing easier. Trevor's fall back is just to take clothes out of his father's suitcase while we travel. It was a long day with everyone wound up and excited for the trip to begin.
I was having a hard time deciding what to pack. Nascar is a blue jean and tee shirt affair. But I am a dress up girl. I couldn't meet a celebrity wearing just casual clothes. I packed some dress slacks as my compromise.
The suitcases are put in the trunk of the limo. It is pitch dark still, now that it is October. We are bundled up in jackets against the cold. I find the oldies station 106.7 to listen to on the ride.
I can't help feeling that heart strings in my chest. The thin wire that travels up the rib cage through the back of the neck to behind the ears. Your sinuses feel full and your eyes start to water when the string tightens. We wouldn't be doing this trip if Riley were not facing such a serious illness. We are mid way through treatment with that dark cloud hanging over us always. I watch the boys enjoying the limo ride.
We arrive at the airport to be greeted by one of our make a wish contacts. Its 7:00 am and she is bright and cheerful and there to assist us with check in. AAh, to have that energy and youth again. After we get our tickets we say goodbye to our escort. We get through security without incident.
Trevor was in the middle of a library book at home. I banned him from taking it on the trip and he refused to start another book while he was in the middle of this one. I told him we would try and find a copy at Powells book store at the airport. No such luck. This particular book was not available. We found some alternatives. Pretty soon I am trying to find room for a stack of books for every member of our little party. Riley wanted Homer's The Odyssey since they are starting that next at school. Powell's didn't have a copy at this store so he picked two other books as alternative reading. We ended up with a heavy pile.
Tom meanwhile has gone off to find a coffee. We join him at Gustavs for a quick breakfast for the boys. Trevor orders a croissant sandwich with eggs and ham. Riley has a huge french toast platter.
We are schlepping our bags through the airport. US Airways charges $25 to check bags. If you take the bags all the way to the gate and check them at the plane, there is no charge. $25 per person buys us more souvenirs later.
In my bag is a duffel rolled up. So we have a spare bag for goodies on the way home. I had to laugh at Riley. As we unloaded the limo, out came his 50 pound backpack. He had brought everything from school, in case he found time to study. He was dragging that heavy bag with him across the country. I wouldn't want to carry it.
Riley voluntarily brings his work. Trevor tried to leave his on the table at home, but I saw it and grabbed the homework for later. Trevor is not happy to hear his assignments made the trip.
Once on the plane, we get settle in. Maintenance is in the cockpit, but I am told by one of the attendants that when we land in Philadelphia, if Riley would like to come up and see the pilot, he is welcome.
Some how I got lucky. My seat is on the aisle across from Tom and the boys. Tom has to sit in the middle between them. I am loving the space. The plane is full. I don't think there was a first class seat available had Tom tried to get an upgrade, which he usually likes to do.
The flight attendant comes by with drinks and snacks. Its plane food, but it will hold us all for the flight. Trevor orders candy cookies and chips, any one of those snacks should have been sufficient. Riley orders the fruit and cheese. Tom orders the turkey bagel. I know there will be left overs so I wait. Tom gives me his yogurt that came with is sandwich. Riley doesn't like the cheese, but when I try it, neither do I. I skip Trevor's junk food.
Trevor slips off his shoes and makes himself comfortable. I chuckle with relief that it is not me in the middle, as the boys reach across their father to share food. I still don't know how I managed to get the seat by myself, but I am loving it.
When we land in Philly, we wait for the plane to unload then go forward to the pilots cabin. They see us coming and say hear comes the make a wish family. We are all wearing our buttons and Riley has his shirt on to identify him. The pilot lets the boys sit in the pilot seats. Riley is impressed by the many buttons and controls. The cockpit looks nothing like the experimental plane he flew in May.
We have a connection to make so we can't linger. We hustle down the concourse. Trevor tells us he is hungry. I tell the boys that once we get to our next connecting gate their father will let them eat. He just likes to know where he needs to be first.
The connecting flight is delayed by a half hour. We have time to feed the bellies. A fast food pizza shop is close by. Riley and I had gate checked our luggage in Portland. They checked it all the way through to Charlotte, so we no longer had to deal with our luggage. Tom still had his and so did Trevor. I kept Riley's pills in my purse for safe keeping. Tom also had some in his bag just in case.
We take off at 7:00pm. The pilot says there was a loose piece of rubber on the plane that had to be dealt with per FAA regulations, which was why the delay and then paperwork had to be signed clearing the plane's repairs.
We land in Charlotte. It is warm. My coat is now in the way. We are greeted at the Charlotte airport by two local chapter Make a Wish members. Mellisa is a volunteer. Her sister was a Make a Wish child when she was younger. Mellisa's sister did not survive. Jaime was the other greeter. Both had rich southern accents and warm welcomes. They helped us get our bags and processes our rental car. Everything ran smoothly with their assistance.
We headed out to Concord where the hotel and track are located. The directions are good and we find the Marriott Springhill suites without issue. There is a message at the desk to call the Make a Wish coordinator as soon as we check in. Just to let her know we have arrived safely. She will connect with us in the morning. She also let us know we are meeting Dale Jr the next day. It is 10:00 at night. We haven't got our souvenirs yet to be signed.
There was a big bag of gifts waiting for Riley in our hotel room. collector cars from Dale Senior and Dale Jr. Tom and Riley ooh and aah. I ask the hotel concierge if there is a store around still open. Riley needs his yogurt for his pills. I am told there is a 24 hour super walmart just down the road.
Perfect. One thing I have learned from my travels is walmart usually has everything you need. I bought swim suits in December once when our hotel had a pool and I forgot to pack one. This walmart not only had the brand and flavor of yogurt Riley likes, but a whole section of Nascar clothes.
I buy collared shirts for everyone with their favorite driver numbers on them. They will look very respectable meeting Dale Jr. For Trevor I get a black polo with the #3 for Dale Sr. Tom has to be a Jeff Gordon fan so I get him a pit crew button down for Gordon's #24 crew in red. Riley finds a green National Guard polo with #88. I find myself a #88 girl's t-shirt with Rhinestones embedded in the number. We will look very supportive and respectable at tomorrow's meet and greet. I wont need to stress appearance
Monday, October 11, 2010
Job hunting
When I went for my job interview, I took my resume and I dressed up. It surprises me when people come into the store asking for applications and wearing piercings in their faces or spaghetti straps showing or torn tank tops. First impressions are everything. The competition is stiff.
Respect the job, respect the people you see. These people will all have a say in your employment in a small business. They are already on the inside and personality counts. Do they feel you will fit in with their "family" of employees. When you show up asking for an employment application don't think for one moment that every one isn't giving you the once over from head to toe. You are fired before you even say hello if you are not dressed suitably for the job you are inquiring after.
I can't believe how many people just do not take it more seriously. Tom tells me that people on unemployment need to inquire three times a week to keep their unemployment benefits. They don't really want the job so they don't care. That makes me so frustrated. My tax payer dollars are going for their fun and frivolity time. They pop into the store ask for an application for a job they don't want just so they can get paid by the state.
I have seen very few really serious people looking for work, dressed appropriately for the job coming through the doors. When they do make an effort, I feel badly that we are not hiring them. We have even redirected a couple of people to places we do know are seasonally hiring because they came across as earnest people. They did not have spaghetti straps showing or piercings all over their faces or torn clothing.
If your teen is out job hunting, have him in slacks and collared shirt or even a button down. Clean and tidy walking in the door. That first impression counts. Women should be dressed conservatively. No spaghetti straps, tank tops, or sayings on the clothes. Depending on the job, whether it be a dress or slacks. I wore a dress suit for my interviews, but the job required in the end just pants. The key was I took the job seriously and respected the people who were hiring and dressed for the occasion. Getting a new job is an occasion. It is a time to dress up.
You are throwing your children out for many rejections, if you don't give them a little direction in their dress code. The world is a difficult enough place without starting out on the wrong foot.
They can express themselves at home or with friends, but business is business.
Respect the job, respect the people you see. These people will all have a say in your employment in a small business. They are already on the inside and personality counts. Do they feel you will fit in with their "family" of employees. When you show up asking for an employment application don't think for one moment that every one isn't giving you the once over from head to toe. You are fired before you even say hello if you are not dressed suitably for the job you are inquiring after.
I can't believe how many people just do not take it more seriously. Tom tells me that people on unemployment need to inquire three times a week to keep their unemployment benefits. They don't really want the job so they don't care. That makes me so frustrated. My tax payer dollars are going for their fun and frivolity time. They pop into the store ask for an application for a job they don't want just so they can get paid by the state.
I have seen very few really serious people looking for work, dressed appropriately for the job coming through the doors. When they do make an effort, I feel badly that we are not hiring them. We have even redirected a couple of people to places we do know are seasonally hiring because they came across as earnest people. They did not have spaghetti straps showing or piercings all over their faces or torn clothing.
If your teen is out job hunting, have him in slacks and collared shirt or even a button down. Clean and tidy walking in the door. That first impression counts. Women should be dressed conservatively. No spaghetti straps, tank tops, or sayings on the clothes. Depending on the job, whether it be a dress or slacks. I wore a dress suit for my interviews, but the job required in the end just pants. The key was I took the job seriously and respected the people who were hiring and dressed for the occasion. Getting a new job is an occasion. It is a time to dress up.
You are throwing your children out for many rejections, if you don't give them a little direction in their dress code. The world is a difficult enough place without starting out on the wrong foot.
They can express themselves at home or with friends, but business is business.
Sunday, October 10, 2010
Make A Wish
We meet Dale Earnhart Jr. in Charlotte North Carolina at the Nascar race. That is Riley's wish. He is a very private man so no video or public photos. Tonight we received the itinerary. My family came and Tom's sister. She took photos of the event. Riley received some match box cars of the Nascar models of some of the drivers. Jeff Gordon, Mark Martin, Dale Earnhart, Edwards, Johnson, Biffle. He also received a book on Nascar's history, full of old pictures and photographs and historic information. Riley loved it.
What I loved was that my family and one of my dear friends were there to join our festivities when Make A Wish presented Riley with his wish. Not a big group, but I read an article that said any more than Ten people and the hostess can't get enough quality time to talk to her guests. The people that came were there in the beginning of our adventures last February. They supported us through our trials. Visits to the hospital when Riley was incarcerated. Sharing of their own stories, so we didn't feel so alone. The information and love that was poured out to Riley and us gave us the strength to carry on under the burden of stress.
I didn't have a big party, just family. My girl friend is taking our dog for a long play date, which was one reason why she was invited. The dog wouldn't walk out to her car without me. He knew he was going away with out us. I am having the neighbors watch our cat and house again. They did a great job this summer. The cats did not take revenge on being abandoned , which was an indicator my neighbors did a fantastic job caring for them. Usually, they tear up the house and leave presents everywhere. When I bribe them with fresh cans of cat food every day provided by my neighbor the damage doesn't occur.
I just didn't have it in me to do a big event, even though I owe some other very dear people a huge amount of love and gratitude for their cleaning my house, remodeling Riley's room into a sterile clean environment, providing food to the family when we were commuting to and from the hospital, and for just being there with their support and love. It is a pay it forward kind of thing. I can only hope that I can return that favor to someone else in the future. Even though I would not wish the circumstances that would warrant it on anyone.
We are all so excited. Tom was almost giddy. Someone commented on whether this was Riley's wish or his father's. We had talked about taking the boys to a Nascar race but probably would not have gotten around to it. There are so many other things to do. We just did our big DC trip. It would have been a while before we did another big trip. I had already bought our plane tickets for New York and DC before Riley got sick. Or we probably would never have concidered still going.
It was well worth doing as I know this trip will be. We will be making Make A Wish our new charity for a long time to thank them for this family time. We will have a blast.
What I loved was that my family and one of my dear friends were there to join our festivities when Make A Wish presented Riley with his wish. Not a big group, but I read an article that said any more than Ten people and the hostess can't get enough quality time to talk to her guests. The people that came were there in the beginning of our adventures last February. They supported us through our trials. Visits to the hospital when Riley was incarcerated. Sharing of their own stories, so we didn't feel so alone. The information and love that was poured out to Riley and us gave us the strength to carry on under the burden of stress.
I didn't have a big party, just family. My girl friend is taking our dog for a long play date, which was one reason why she was invited. The dog wouldn't walk out to her car without me. He knew he was going away with out us. I am having the neighbors watch our cat and house again. They did a great job this summer. The cats did not take revenge on being abandoned , which was an indicator my neighbors did a fantastic job caring for them. Usually, they tear up the house and leave presents everywhere. When I bribe them with fresh cans of cat food every day provided by my neighbor the damage doesn't occur.
I just didn't have it in me to do a big event, even though I owe some other very dear people a huge amount of love and gratitude for their cleaning my house, remodeling Riley's room into a sterile clean environment, providing food to the family when we were commuting to and from the hospital, and for just being there with their support and love. It is a pay it forward kind of thing. I can only hope that I can return that favor to someone else in the future. Even though I would not wish the circumstances that would warrant it on anyone.
We are all so excited. Tom was almost giddy. Someone commented on whether this was Riley's wish or his father's. We had talked about taking the boys to a Nascar race but probably would not have gotten around to it. There are so many other things to do. We just did our big DC trip. It would have been a while before we did another big trip. I had already bought our plane tickets for New York and DC before Riley got sick. Or we probably would never have concidered still going.
It was well worth doing as I know this trip will be. We will be making Make A Wish our new charity for a long time to thank them for this family time. We will have a blast.
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Rest day
Thank goodness for in service days. Riley has hit a wall this week. He had a couple big assignments that kept him up late and stressed. By today, Thursday he was crabby and Trevor said Riley was picking on him at the bus stop and on the bus.
Riley after a cranky half hour at home after school, went up to his room to lie down on his bed voluntarily. He was asleep within minutes, so soundly he didn't even move when I went in and put a blanket on him.
He was still asleep when I left with Trevor for football practice. He awoke three hours later. Tom told me they talked about his treatment of his brother. It is unfair to be mean, hitting his brother with his swinging back pack or kicking him, when Trevor is not allowed to retaliate in the same way. Trevor knows physical response is dangerous for Riley. He out ways his brother by 60 pounds. Riley is making a big mistake antagonizing the boy.
Trevor made the right choice to reasonably talk to me about it in a controlled environment away from Riley, as we drove to his practice in the car. So I could hear the problem without interruptions. Riley would be up in arms if he knew Trevor had spoken to me about it. This way we can pull Riley aside and reasonably discuss his treatment of his brother. Find out if this is just a power play or if there is more to it than that. If I had the boys together, it would become a shouting match of he said he said.
Trev and I had a lovely time at the tailgate party for his team. It was team spirit night. I handed out the photo packets. Trevor looked so cute in his picture, so serious.
I ordered his new cleats on line. After getting verbally spanked by the coach for torturing my child for forcing him to wear cleats that were now to small. What do you know, mid season and he has outgrown the cleats I bought at the beginning of summer for the summer camps. $98 later including the overnight express, so he can have them for the game Saturday, he has some new cleats coming. They are turf cleats because regular sport cleats don't come in the 4E widths Trevor needs, not to be screaming in pain when he runs from his toes being pinched. He also wears a heel cup in his shoe now to help pad his heel from all that pounding.
This week Trevor practiced in his regular athletic shoes. Coach says he has already seen a difference in Trevor. He is not last. He is happy and trying so much harder. He will be playing both offense and defense this weekend at the game as a result.
I have to work, but Tom will be there to see how he does. I think I will recommend sending him with both sets of shoes. Just in case the new cleats don't work out as well. Tom will make Riley go and watch, probably. I wish Riley had a friend he could take with him.
Riley after a cranky half hour at home after school, went up to his room to lie down on his bed voluntarily. He was asleep within minutes, so soundly he didn't even move when I went in and put a blanket on him.
He was still asleep when I left with Trevor for football practice. He awoke three hours later. Tom told me they talked about his treatment of his brother. It is unfair to be mean, hitting his brother with his swinging back pack or kicking him, when Trevor is not allowed to retaliate in the same way. Trevor knows physical response is dangerous for Riley. He out ways his brother by 60 pounds. Riley is making a big mistake antagonizing the boy.
Trevor made the right choice to reasonably talk to me about it in a controlled environment away from Riley, as we drove to his practice in the car. So I could hear the problem without interruptions. Riley would be up in arms if he knew Trevor had spoken to me about it. This way we can pull Riley aside and reasonably discuss his treatment of his brother. Find out if this is just a power play or if there is more to it than that. If I had the boys together, it would become a shouting match of he said he said.
Trev and I had a lovely time at the tailgate party for his team. It was team spirit night. I handed out the photo packets. Trevor looked so cute in his picture, so serious.
I ordered his new cleats on line. After getting verbally spanked by the coach for torturing my child for forcing him to wear cleats that were now to small. What do you know, mid season and he has outgrown the cleats I bought at the beginning of summer for the summer camps. $98 later including the overnight express, so he can have them for the game Saturday, he has some new cleats coming. They are turf cleats because regular sport cleats don't come in the 4E widths Trevor needs, not to be screaming in pain when he runs from his toes being pinched. He also wears a heel cup in his shoe now to help pad his heel from all that pounding.
This week Trevor practiced in his regular athletic shoes. Coach says he has already seen a difference in Trevor. He is not last. He is happy and trying so much harder. He will be playing both offense and defense this weekend at the game as a result.
I have to work, but Tom will be there to see how he does. I think I will recommend sending him with both sets of shoes. Just in case the new cleats don't work out as well. Tom will make Riley go and watch, probably. I wish Riley had a friend he could take with him.
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Pampering
yesterday was a day off for me. I started the day with a pedicure and manicure. My feet look so much better. I have been doing pedicures this year several times. As a result the old callouses and dead skin have receded and my feet are not bad. That is great for work as I have been trying on shoes. Every time I take off the shoes I am wearing I wonder what my co workers think about the condition of my feet. I have started having to watch the socks I put on for holes. Tom will be happy as the old beat up socks that I was making him wear end up in the trash so I don't accidentally wear them to work.
We keep one big pile of socks and if they are not matched in the basket in the closet, everyone grabs from the same unmatched bin. About every two to three weeks I sit down with all the socks and start matching. That makes us good for a while on socks.
One of the women at work has a really cute hair do. I had asked if I could use her stylist. She got me an appointment at noon. After the pedicure I had to drive to the new stylist's salon, about 20 minutes away. It took two hours. It is one of the reason I don't use salons often and do my own dye job to cover the grey. Well, you get what you pay for.
She put three or four colors in my hair. It looks so wonderful. Then she cut it to a bob length. I loved it. It is easy and cute. Perfect for a mom who doesn't like to primp in front of a mirror or is not embarrassed to run out of the house with wet hair.
The boys hated the length. They said it made me look old. They started calling me by another friend's name who has a similar do. Tom was very sweet. He said he liked it, but then he started to recite that commercial on TV where the heavy set woman asks her husband if the dress she has on makes her look fat. OK, I get it. It will grow out. But meanwhile I am going to savor the cool air hitting my neck when I am hot and not sticky hair.
Riley says short hair makes everyone look old, because that is what old people do, cut their hair short. I can see he has a lot of his father in him. He is going to fall for some girl just because she has long braid able hair.
I enjoyed my day of complete pampering, regardless. It was expensive. Not something I can do regularly. I don't know how people do it regularly. But I am now ready for our trip.
The house is not ready for company, but I have Thursday off to work on the house. I am just going to tackle the down stairs. Bathrooms, kitchen, common areas. Riley seams to have discovered something he likes to eat in the cafeteria, so I haven't got the house vacuumed. He probably found the deli counter. Trevor though, said he would do it for money also. There is a football game Thursday. He will do it for money to go to the game.
I should make them do it for extra spending money for the trip. Trevor got his homework that he will be missing. I am hoping he makes a dent in it this weekend. Riley said he would get his teachers' homework today. I told them it would be good to have an extra weekend to work on it all.
Man, it is hard finding the time. Getting home at 6:00 with Trevor already at practice is tough. Once football season is over, it will be so much easier. But then I will miss all the football fun. We are having a tailgate party for the game Thursday with the whole team and their families. Coach is going to "call out" the squads.
We keep one big pile of socks and if they are not matched in the basket in the closet, everyone grabs from the same unmatched bin. About every two to three weeks I sit down with all the socks and start matching. That makes us good for a while on socks.
One of the women at work has a really cute hair do. I had asked if I could use her stylist. She got me an appointment at noon. After the pedicure I had to drive to the new stylist's salon, about 20 minutes away. It took two hours. It is one of the reason I don't use salons often and do my own dye job to cover the grey. Well, you get what you pay for.
She put three or four colors in my hair. It looks so wonderful. Then she cut it to a bob length. I loved it. It is easy and cute. Perfect for a mom who doesn't like to primp in front of a mirror or is not embarrassed to run out of the house with wet hair.
The boys hated the length. They said it made me look old. They started calling me by another friend's name who has a similar do. Tom was very sweet. He said he liked it, but then he started to recite that commercial on TV where the heavy set woman asks her husband if the dress she has on makes her look fat. OK, I get it. It will grow out. But meanwhile I am going to savor the cool air hitting my neck when I am hot and not sticky hair.
Riley says short hair makes everyone look old, because that is what old people do, cut their hair short. I can see he has a lot of his father in him. He is going to fall for some girl just because she has long braid able hair.
I enjoyed my day of complete pampering, regardless. It was expensive. Not something I can do regularly. I don't know how people do it regularly. But I am now ready for our trip.
The house is not ready for company, but I have Thursday off to work on the house. I am just going to tackle the down stairs. Bathrooms, kitchen, common areas. Riley seams to have discovered something he likes to eat in the cafeteria, so I haven't got the house vacuumed. He probably found the deli counter. Trevor though, said he would do it for money also. There is a football game Thursday. He will do it for money to go to the game.
I should make them do it for extra spending money for the trip. Trevor got his homework that he will be missing. I am hoping he makes a dent in it this weekend. Riley said he would get his teachers' homework today. I told them it would be good to have an extra weekend to work on it all.
Man, it is hard finding the time. Getting home at 6:00 with Trevor already at practice is tough. Once football season is over, it will be so much easier. But then I will miss all the football fun. We are having a tailgate party for the game Thursday with the whole team and their families. Coach is going to "call out" the squads.
Saturday, October 2, 2010
Getting ready
Today, Saturday, I had the boys up and out of the house by 9am. We were on our way to help my sister mow her lawn. She couldn't get her lawn mower started and the grass was getting long. By the time we got to her house though, she was already gone to take my niece to karate. That didn't slow us down. She had left her mower out in case we came while she was gone.
Trev and I had brought our mower just in case we couldn't get hers started. We had also brought gas. I helped Trev get our mower to the back yard so he could get started. Her back yard is big so its a good place to begin as it takes longer. Riley and I checked out her mower in the front yard. Hers has a choke on it. The knob is broken so it is really hard to get the knob bar into the choke position to start the mower. We added gas, then while I held the choke down in place with my gloved hands to give me more leverage, Riley pulled the starter cable. Between the two of us we got the mower running.
Riley mowed the front while I hoed the weeds. I had brought our hoe, since last time we were there we broke the old wooden handle off the hoe Tory had. Between the three of us we got the yard done in about a half hour. It was in pretty good condition as she had hired someone to spread mulch and tidy up the yard about a month ago. Looking at it now I realize I need to mulch my yard desperately.
We were done well before I anticipated being done. That meant I had extra time in our day. I wanted to buy the boys shoes from my new job at the employee discount, but I had needed their feet to be present. Even though it was my day off, we headed to the shoe store. I fitted them in some really great shoes called Beast, made by Brooks. These shoes are top of the line for athletic wear and foot problems. Trevor has been wailing about his feet hurting him. He needed a 4E width which he could not get in the last pair he had.
We had bought his shoes at the Nike store at the airport. I had asked for their widest shoe, but it really was just a regular size. They cost as much as the Beast, but the width made Trevor's feet hurt. I was pleased we had the boy's size in stock, 12 4E for Trevor and 13 2E for Riley. The store wasn't too busy either so we weren't in the way.
Both boys could feel the difference in their feet immediately. Trevor was sad he couldn't get cleats for football in the same width. I may have to order on line his cleats next year. Hopefully someone must make 4E, as he can't be the only big line man with wide feet.
We had lunch at Subway, just down the mall from the shoe store. Then I told the boys they would be getting their hair professionally cut, so they would look good for our trip that is coming up to meet Dale Earnhart Jr. There will be pictures taken and I didn't want the boys to look shaggy like their mother cut their hair, which I did before school started.
Riley has side burns and shaggy eye brows and a mustache he is very proud of, and hair growing down his neck, even though it is just a shadow. It is more than any other freshman in high school. Trevor just needed a clean up.
This was a real Barber shop with the cool spinning sign post outside. The woman cuts Trevor's hair, layering it beautifully, as I could never do, both because I don't know how and secondly that my children will not sit still for me that long. Riley gets his cut by a man. His eyes get really huge when the man pulls out one of those old fashioned grooming knives to get a clean scrape on Riley's neck.
Wow, what a difference a professional cut makes. The boys looked so spiffy when they were done. The guy that cut Riley's hair even trimmed up the bushy eye brows. He noted how Riley flinched when he got close to the ears though and asked if I had nicked Riley's ears in the past. "Yep". The cuts were $20 each including the tip. You get what you pay for, and I am free.
Both boys looked so sharp with shiny new shoes and new hair cuts. Now I just need the wardrobe check, and we are ready to meet Junior, without looking like ... Well, people that need a make over.
I am having my nails and toes done and I have an appointment to have my hair colored and styled professionally next week. I usually color my own hair, but it never quite covers the gray all the way. I want a really good job, just like the boys received.
I told Tom I was still feeling a little guilty about the trip. We could do this ourselves, but probably wouldn't. Tom pointed out that we are in no way out of the woods yet. We have a long way to go, at least another 6 months and only if all goes well. Once we are done with this adventure of Riley's, we will make American Cancer society and Make a Wish two of our main charities to repay this wonderful opportunity and services they provide.
American Cancer society has asked me to send out a post card from me to 17 neighbors asking for support. I told them I would do it. They give me the postcards and I just have to personalize them. I appreciate so much more now how much they do to help people at all levels of need.
The extent of work it takes to collect blood from volunteers or the assistance in a crisis, They do a little of everything, including the summer camp the boys attended this summer. Riley would not have been able to do camp at all without those nurses and doctors and councilors giving their time, let alone the funds needed to run that camp.
Trev and I had brought our mower just in case we couldn't get hers started. We had also brought gas. I helped Trev get our mower to the back yard so he could get started. Her back yard is big so its a good place to begin as it takes longer. Riley and I checked out her mower in the front yard. Hers has a choke on it. The knob is broken so it is really hard to get the knob bar into the choke position to start the mower. We added gas, then while I held the choke down in place with my gloved hands to give me more leverage, Riley pulled the starter cable. Between the two of us we got the mower running.
Riley mowed the front while I hoed the weeds. I had brought our hoe, since last time we were there we broke the old wooden handle off the hoe Tory had. Between the three of us we got the yard done in about a half hour. It was in pretty good condition as she had hired someone to spread mulch and tidy up the yard about a month ago. Looking at it now I realize I need to mulch my yard desperately.
We were done well before I anticipated being done. That meant I had extra time in our day. I wanted to buy the boys shoes from my new job at the employee discount, but I had needed their feet to be present. Even though it was my day off, we headed to the shoe store. I fitted them in some really great shoes called Beast, made by Brooks. These shoes are top of the line for athletic wear and foot problems. Trevor has been wailing about his feet hurting him. He needed a 4E width which he could not get in the last pair he had.
We had bought his shoes at the Nike store at the airport. I had asked for their widest shoe, but it really was just a regular size. They cost as much as the Beast, but the width made Trevor's feet hurt. I was pleased we had the boy's size in stock, 12 4E for Trevor and 13 2E for Riley. The store wasn't too busy either so we weren't in the way.
Both boys could feel the difference in their feet immediately. Trevor was sad he couldn't get cleats for football in the same width. I may have to order on line his cleats next year. Hopefully someone must make 4E, as he can't be the only big line man with wide feet.
We had lunch at Subway, just down the mall from the shoe store. Then I told the boys they would be getting their hair professionally cut, so they would look good for our trip that is coming up to meet Dale Earnhart Jr. There will be pictures taken and I didn't want the boys to look shaggy like their mother cut their hair, which I did before school started.
Riley has side burns and shaggy eye brows and a mustache he is very proud of, and hair growing down his neck, even though it is just a shadow. It is more than any other freshman in high school. Trevor just needed a clean up.
This was a real Barber shop with the cool spinning sign post outside. The woman cuts Trevor's hair, layering it beautifully, as I could never do, both because I don't know how and secondly that my children will not sit still for me that long. Riley gets his cut by a man. His eyes get really huge when the man pulls out one of those old fashioned grooming knives to get a clean scrape on Riley's neck.
Wow, what a difference a professional cut makes. The boys looked so spiffy when they were done. The guy that cut Riley's hair even trimmed up the bushy eye brows. He noted how Riley flinched when he got close to the ears though and asked if I had nicked Riley's ears in the past. "Yep". The cuts were $20 each including the tip. You get what you pay for, and I am free.
Both boys looked so sharp with shiny new shoes and new hair cuts. Now I just need the wardrobe check, and we are ready to meet Junior, without looking like ... Well, people that need a make over.
I am having my nails and toes done and I have an appointment to have my hair colored and styled professionally next week. I usually color my own hair, but it never quite covers the gray all the way. I want a really good job, just like the boys received.
I told Tom I was still feeling a little guilty about the trip. We could do this ourselves, but probably wouldn't. Tom pointed out that we are in no way out of the woods yet. We have a long way to go, at least another 6 months and only if all goes well. Once we are done with this adventure of Riley's, we will make American Cancer society and Make a Wish two of our main charities to repay this wonderful opportunity and services they provide.
American Cancer society has asked me to send out a post card from me to 17 neighbors asking for support. I told them I would do it. They give me the postcards and I just have to personalize them. I appreciate so much more now how much they do to help people at all levels of need.
The extent of work it takes to collect blood from volunteers or the assistance in a crisis, They do a little of everything, including the summer camp the boys attended this summer. Riley would not have been able to do camp at all without those nurses and doctors and councilors giving their time, let alone the funds needed to run that camp.
Friday, October 1, 2010
Thrift shopping
At work my boss manager pulled me aside and gently told me the seam on my pants in back had split open. I am a dress girl. I have four suitable pairs of dress pants to my name for work. Now I was down to three. I pinned the hole with a safety pin so I could continue working. Thank goodness I had a pin. I took it off the front where the button was gone and cinched up my belt.
So, yesterday on my day off I went shopping for pants for work. Since I really don't make much money I did not want to spend a lot on this project. I went to the local thrift store. I found tens were a bit snug. That is what I was wearing when I busted out of my pants. 14 is way to big. I am twelve. There weren't that many twelves on the hangers, but I found some. I even liked them. Tan pants , grey pants, black pants, and a pair of jeans for fun. I through in a few tops to go along. When I got up to the counter I found half of my cloths were yellow tags and half off as it was yellow tag day. I paid two dollars for each of the pants and four dollars for the tops. A whole new work wardrobe for $26. I love thrift store shopping.
I swung over to Fred Meyer to see if they had any tops. I am working with women all around my age or a little older. Every one is pre menopausal and if you are not then you are triggered by everyone else. We all break out in hot flashes periodically. Going up and down the stairs to the stock room doesn't help keep you cool. I wanted some short sleeve tops. I didn't want to pay much. I checked the end of summer sale racks. I found a couple of tops and spent more on those two tops than the big bags of thrift clothes I had already purchased.
My signature turtle neck tops that I love wearing are just too hot for work. I swelter until the air conditioning comes on at 72 degrees. I now have an appropriate wardrobe for work that I wont mind sweating in but still look professional.
So, yesterday on my day off I went shopping for pants for work. Since I really don't make much money I did not want to spend a lot on this project. I went to the local thrift store. I found tens were a bit snug. That is what I was wearing when I busted out of my pants. 14 is way to big. I am twelve. There weren't that many twelves on the hangers, but I found some. I even liked them. Tan pants , grey pants, black pants, and a pair of jeans for fun. I through in a few tops to go along. When I got up to the counter I found half of my cloths were yellow tags and half off as it was yellow tag day. I paid two dollars for each of the pants and four dollars for the tops. A whole new work wardrobe for $26. I love thrift store shopping.
I swung over to Fred Meyer to see if they had any tops. I am working with women all around my age or a little older. Every one is pre menopausal and if you are not then you are triggered by everyone else. We all break out in hot flashes periodically. Going up and down the stairs to the stock room doesn't help keep you cool. I wanted some short sleeve tops. I didn't want to pay much. I checked the end of summer sale racks. I found a couple of tops and spent more on those two tops than the big bags of thrift clothes I had already purchased.
My signature turtle neck tops that I love wearing are just too hot for work. I swelter until the air conditioning comes on at 72 degrees. I now have an appropriate wardrobe for work that I wont mind sweating in but still look professional.
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