A dear friend recently told me that she was "tackling some pre-spring cleaning projects" on the weekends. I should preface this with a bit of background about her. Stef is one of the most creative, organized, giving and incredibly hard-working people I've had the gift of knowing. Not only is she the Martha Stewart (but much kinder) of the tri-state region, she has her MBA and is extremely successful career -wise. That probably isn't a just description of her, but you'd have to know her to understand how truly awesome she is. I don't get how she does it. She and her husband have even helped us with many of our projects around the house. Painting the bathroom, re-decorating with the things we already have, and the like.
That said, the fact that she is working full-time (most likely more than your average 40 hours/week) made me stop dead in my tracks. Here I am, home all day, moping around in my pj's and sleeping way too much when I could be taking advantage of my time and getting some much needed housework done. I don't mean the regular cleaning; I mean things like clearing out accumulated "stuff", cleaning behind and under furniture, and getting the closets relatively functional. So anyway, thanks to Stef, today I made a list and vow to finish it before I go back to work (if that ever happens). I accomplished item number one: Cleaning our bedroom. I was appalled at the things I cleared out from under the bed. I even flipped the mattress, trashed the yellowed, yucky bed skirt and dusted and vacuumed every surface. I am feeling pretty proud of myself at the moment. I'm hoping it was just what I needed to get some motivation back.
Tomorrow is our long-overdue date night. We are just going to an early movie and dinner (and probably to sleep early too), but it will be some much-needed adult time for us. We always come home from date night feeling renewed as a couple and it helps us to stay on the same page. Besides, Murray will get a special night at his Grandpa and Grandma's house, one of his four favorite places to have overnights.
I'm off to wrack my brain for something to serve for dinner. I forgot to take anything out of the freezer this morning, so it may have to be grilled cheese and tomato soup.
Update. . .Finally
Emilie's Crew:
Roxane and me:
Roxane and me:
The Cathedral of St. Paul:
The dome of the Cathedral:
The Catholic Spirit, where Emilie worked:
Buca di Beppo:
I can't end the saga of our journey without mentioning Roxane's Aunt Betsy. We met up with her for brunch after Mass on Sunday, and what a thrill it was to meet her. She is incredibly bright, sophisticated, and just all around wonderful. I am so thrilled to have met her! I do hope to get together agian.
The dome of the Cathedral:
The Catholic Spirit, where Emilie worked:
Buca di Beppo:
Note: This is a combined post that I began writing on Monday and have finally finished today.
To my new reader: I'm thrilled that you found my blog and are following my posts. However, I haven't been able to find your comment, so if you be so kind, would you mind commenting one more time? I would appreciate your help. . .I would like to know more about you!
With the weather today, I opted to keep Murray home instead of trying to navigate the wind and roads to daycare even though she did have it open). It turned out to be a terrific day. We played all morning and then we took a three hour nap. Being a stay-at-home mom keeps looking better and better.
I haven't heard about the job yet, but I am praying that the dreaded "you weren't the candidate for us but we enjoyed meeting you" letter doesn't arrive tomorrow and that I will receive the "We think you are perfect for the job" phone call. I'm expecting the former, but time will tell.
The journey, you ask? Here goes:
Roxane arrived at our hotel at about 3pm on Saturday. I was thrilled to see her! From there, we prepared for Emilie's party and arrived at Buca di Beppo right on time (the only time we were prompt for anything that weekend as it turned out). Although only nine of us were all able to gather together, we were a darn fun group. We talked, laughed, cried, and laughed. I can't describe how amazing it was to meet these kindred souls that knew Emilie.I wish I had the words. You will find new links to some of my new found friends' blogs, lutherliz and marketingmama.
On Sunday morning, I woke up a bit late (I didn't even hear Roxane getting up) but we made it out of the hotel on time (or so we thought) to attend Mass at The Cathedral of St. Paul. The problem was that I punched in the address to Buca instead of the Selby Avenue address for the church. After driving past the Cathedral, arriving once again at Buca and turning off the voice that is Tom Tom, we "reached our destination". (after waiting for the slowest train in the history of trains). Thanks to Roxane for trusting her instincts versus relying on electronics.
When I was telling my Grandma Kate about our adventures, she reminded me that she grew up just down the hill of the Cathedral of St. Paul, which is where we parked. I thought it was so neat that we were right there, where my history begins. God was on a mission and it so much fun to discuss with Grandma the area and her childhood (which I'm quite familiar with, but it is awesome to be able to picture her neighborhood).
One of the funniest mements in our travels happenended on the way home. We were looking for a Target, so we took the Wayzeta exit. To the right was a Holiday, but when looking toward the left, we assumed we'd wind up in the business district, therefore, finding a Target. Approximately fifteen minutes later, we found ourselves once again at the Holiday with no Target in sight. Oh boy, did we laugh. We headed back on the "motorway" (tom tom again) and found the Target store in Alex, which Rox is familair with.
I can't end the saga of our journey without mentioning Roxane's Aunt Betsy. We met up with her for brunch after Mass on Sunday, and what a thrill it was to meet her. She is incredibly bright, sophisticated, and just all around wonderful. I am so thrilled to have met her! I do hope to get together agian.
UPDATED: January 27th, 2010:
I've been slacking again. I'm not sure what is causing my writer's block this time, but there it is. Nothing much has occured in the Beckerleg household since my Monday post (see above), but I do have some pictures to post. Big thanks to Roxane for sharing them with me since my camera was on the fritz.
Let's hope this writer's block is over for the time being.
Thanks for reading,
M
Breaking the Silence
I apologize for my silence lately. I am on day seven of a cold that I can't seem to shake. When one can hardly move, creativity and the desire to write leaves one's brain. It was only this morning while preparing for Mass that I was "writing in my head" again. With that, I knew it was time to post once again and get back on track.
I still feel awful and am wondering how long this will last. I can't taste or smell a thing and haven't been able to since Monday. I even attended a gourmet food and wine dinner and while I enjoyed the company of my "date" Rose, she had to describe the aromas and taste of the food and the wine that accompanied each course.
There is so much I want to write regarding our big adventure to Emilie Lemmon's gathering, but before I do so, I need to catch up on Roxane's posts. We experienced a celebration that I'm not sure how to put into words, but if you are curious before I can write more, check out Roxane's post from the last week. I'm positive that she can describe the events more eloquently than I can. That being said, I met some wonderful new friends (God bless Emilie for bringing us together) and was even able to experience Solemn (or High) Mass at the Cathedral of St. Paul, which is located next door to The Catholic Spirit, where Emilie worked, as well as our new friend Christina.
The saddest part of this journey that we took together is that my camera wasn't working, so again, for pictures, check out Roxane's site.
I'm going to cut this post short because I'm still under the weather, but know that I will be back tomorrow with more. In the mean time, GO VIKES!
I still feel awful and am wondering how long this will last. I can't taste or smell a thing and haven't been able to since Monday. I even attended a gourmet food and wine dinner and while I enjoyed the company of my "date" Rose, she had to describe the aromas and taste of the food and the wine that accompanied each course.
There is so much I want to write regarding our big adventure to Emilie Lemmon's gathering, but before I do so, I need to catch up on Roxane's posts. We experienced a celebration that I'm not sure how to put into words, but if you are curious before I can write more, check out Roxane's post from the last week. I'm positive that she can describe the events more eloquently than I can. That being said, I met some wonderful new friends (God bless Emilie for bringing us together) and was even able to experience Solemn (or High) Mass at the Cathedral of St. Paul, which is located next door to The Catholic Spirit, where Emilie worked, as well as our new friend Christina.
The saddest part of this journey that we took together is that my camera wasn't working, so again, for pictures, check out Roxane's site.
I'm going to cut this post short because I'm still under the weather, but know that I will be back tomorrow with more. In the mean time, GO VIKES!
Driving Miss M.
I did it. Drove on 35w that is. All by myself, except for my good friend Tom Tom. It was kind of a mistake, but none the less, I managed to cruise my way to Super Target in the middle of rush hour. I even had to stop at one of those "one car on green lights". I am super proud of myself. I know it sounds silly to all of you who drive in heavy traffic on a regular basis, but keep in mind that I've been terrified of driving on the interstate (even in Fargo) since I crashed my father-in-law's truck on the the BOD (bridge of death - I94 west-bound from Moorhead to Fargo). So I'm feeling pretty darn good right now and even asked Craig if I can drive tomorrow while we visit friends before I check into the next hotel for the second leg of my adventure.
Speaking of hotels, we had a bit of trouble last night. We were settled in for the night; Murray was asleep and Craig and I were having a nightcap. When I went into the bathroom, I was accosted by an extremely potent aroma (not what you might be thinking). It almost smelled like lighter fluid. Craig went in check it out. I certainly wasn't over-reacting (which I tend to do). We called the front desk, who sent maintenance to our room and his response was, "Well, I don't know where the smell would be coming from." With that, he left. The odor kept getting stronger and there was no way we were going to sleep in 407, so the front desk moved us to another room. We had to re-pack everything, move a sleeping Murray and his pack and play, and then unpack everything again. I love this hotel, but I'm getting a bit frustrated. When Craig and I stayed here in December, the front desk gave someone else a key to our room, and they walked in while I was in the room. They did give us free breakfast coupons, so I suppose I can't complain. Anyway, that was the Beckerleg drama for the night.
My big sister from another mother came over to visit us today. Tricia used to be a lifeguard and swim teacher, so she taught Murray and I some basic things about learning to swim. She is absolutely wonderful with children, and well, I guess just wonderful in general. I am thrilled that we were able to connect again. We spent about two hours in the pool until Murray decided it was time for lunch. Thanks Tricia!
Craig is sick and feeling pretty down. He suffered through his meetings today and after my run to Target for Sudafed, he's resting in bed. I feel so bad for him; he sounds awful. Tomorrow he has to go home by himself with Murray, so if he's still ill, he'll have to find someone to take Murray.
I'm off to take Murray to the pool one more time before bed. Craig will have some quiet time, and little one can burn off some energy.
Speaking of hotels, we had a bit of trouble last night. We were settled in for the night; Murray was asleep and Craig and I were having a nightcap. When I went into the bathroom, I was accosted by an extremely potent aroma (not what you might be thinking). It almost smelled like lighter fluid. Craig went in check it out. I certainly wasn't over-reacting (which I tend to do). We called the front desk, who sent maintenance to our room and his response was, "Well, I don't know where the smell would be coming from." With that, he left. The odor kept getting stronger and there was no way we were going to sleep in 407, so the front desk moved us to another room. We had to re-pack everything, move a sleeping Murray and his pack and play, and then unpack everything again. I love this hotel, but I'm getting a bit frustrated. When Craig and I stayed here in December, the front desk gave someone else a key to our room, and they walked in while I was in the room. They did give us free breakfast coupons, so I suppose I can't complain. Anyway, that was the Beckerleg drama for the night.
My big sister from another mother came over to visit us today. Tricia used to be a lifeguard and swim teacher, so she taught Murray and I some basic things about learning to swim. She is absolutely wonderful with children, and well, I guess just wonderful in general. I am thrilled that we were able to connect again. We spent about two hours in the pool until Murray decided it was time for lunch. Thanks Tricia!
Craig is sick and feeling pretty down. He suffered through his meetings today and after my run to Target for Sudafed, he's resting in bed. I feel so bad for him; he sounds awful. Tomorrow he has to go home by himself with Murray, so if he's still ill, he'll have to find someone to take Murray.
I'm off to take Murray to the pool one more time before bed. Craig will have some quiet time, and little one can burn off some energy.
Weekend Getaway
We arrived in the cities at about 5:00pm. After a quick stop at Marshall's to buy Murray some swim trunks (we forgot the most important item on the packing list), we finally got to the hotel. Murray and I have already been in the "POOO" (the pool), talked with Grandpa and Grandma via Skype and room service was just delivered.
Craig has meetings tomorrow, so Murray and I will meet up with family for breakfast and a pool day. I'm hoping my Aunt and cousins can make it over as well. I also have a good friend that I will try to meet up with sometime during our stay.
Craig and Murray are leaving on Saturday, and Roxane will arrive. We are attending a celebration of the late Emilie Lemmon's life (it would have been her birthday). The fun part about the adventure is that all of us who have connected through Emilie will get the chance to meet in person. On Sunday Roxane and I plan to attend Mass at the St. Paul Cathedral (I've always wanted to experience Mass there) and then have brunch. I am relaxed, happy and looking forward to the next few days with family and friends.
The interview went well, but my enthusiasm may have been a bit over the top. When asked what one of my short term goals is, I replied, "to secure this position". Laughter all around. I'm hoping I didn't botch it. Anyway, the interview lasted almost three hours and consisted of meeting with several different committees and departments. There are eight finalists so the competition is pretty stiff. I'm relying on God and his plan and if it doesn't work out then I'm certain He has a different idea in mind.
I just tried to take a picture of Murray eating room service (walleye fingers) on his tray in the big chair, but of course, the batteries in the camera are shot and I forgot to bring fresh. I'll have to pick some up tomorrow. You'd be surprised; I'm learning the city and with the help of Tom Tom, can generally get where I need to be. I'm definately not ready to navigate the interstates, but I can at least manage the suburbs without an anxiety attack. I'm making progress.
It's almost Murray's bed time, so I will say goodnight now. Sweet dreams all; more tomorrow.
M
Craig has meetings tomorrow, so Murray and I will meet up with family for breakfast and a pool day. I'm hoping my Aunt and cousins can make it over as well. I also have a good friend that I will try to meet up with sometime during our stay.
Craig and Murray are leaving on Saturday, and Roxane will arrive. We are attending a celebration of the late Emilie Lemmon's life (it would have been her birthday). The fun part about the adventure is that all of us who have connected through Emilie will get the chance to meet in person. On Sunday Roxane and I plan to attend Mass at the St. Paul Cathedral (I've always wanted to experience Mass there) and then have brunch. I am relaxed, happy and looking forward to the next few days with family and friends.
The interview went well, but my enthusiasm may have been a bit over the top. When asked what one of my short term goals is, I replied, "to secure this position". Laughter all around. I'm hoping I didn't botch it. Anyway, the interview lasted almost three hours and consisted of meeting with several different committees and departments. There are eight finalists so the competition is pretty stiff. I'm relying on God and his plan and if it doesn't work out then I'm certain He has a different idea in mind.
I just tried to take a picture of Murray eating room service (walleye fingers) on his tray in the big chair, but of course, the batteries in the camera are shot and I forgot to bring fresh. I'll have to pick some up tomorrow. You'd be surprised; I'm learning the city and with the help of Tom Tom, can generally get where I need to be. I'm definately not ready to navigate the interstates, but I can at least manage the suburbs without an anxiety attack. I'm making progress.
It's almost Murray's bed time, so I will say goodnight now. Sweet dreams all; more tomorrow.
M
Playing Catch (Up)
I've been slacking on posting, but certainly not on purpose.
Tomorrow is the big day; my on-site interview. I am so excited and Craig has been drilling me with questions such as, "If you were a tree, what kind of tree would you be?" or, "if you were an animal, what animal would you be?" He's also coached me on several other questions of which I had answers to (he approved). I'm feeling nervous, though nervousness is a good thing; a cocky attitude doesn't generally get a person where one wants to be. Right now, it's all in the hands of God.
From Msgr. Mike Foltz in our weekly bulletin: "It might interest you to know that we are a young parish community. Seventy-three percent of our parishioners are 49 years old or younger. This puts your pastor in the older crowd and the minority. Now you know why you hear a lot of child like noises at some of our Masses. Praise God for the sound of life. Parents, please keep bringing your (God' s) children to Jesus!" Enough said.
We celebrated my mother-in-law's birthday on Sunday; then braved the wind and went to the pond so Murray could skate. Once again it was a huge hit. . .
Tomorrow is the big day; my on-site interview. I am so excited and Craig has been drilling me with questions such as, "If you were a tree, what kind of tree would you be?" or, "if you were an animal, what animal would you be?" He's also coached me on several other questions of which I had answers to (he approved). I'm feeling nervous, though nervousness is a good thing; a cocky attitude doesn't generally get a person where one wants to be. Right now, it's all in the hands of God.
From Msgr. Mike Foltz in our weekly bulletin: "It might interest you to know that we are a young parish community. Seventy-three percent of our parishioners are 49 years old or younger. This puts your pastor in the older crowd and the minority. Now you know why you hear a lot of child like noises at some of our Masses. Praise God for the sound of life. Parents, please keep bringing your (God' s) children to Jesus!" Enough said.
We celebrated my mother-in-law's birthday on Sunday; then braved the wind and went to the pond so Murray could skate. Once again it was a huge hit. . .
I've only been back to work for three days. I can't believe the difference it makes in my daily life, especially going from part time to full time. I've always been a person who hates to stand around at a job, so I've been asking a ton of questions (especially regarding the new software in the bookstore) and am learning a lot. I'm probably driving everone nuts, but I am eager to learn. My favorite duty though, is helping a student help find his/her books. I love scanning the aisles and matching the book with the class and professor. Every time I pick up a book, I want to read it (especially the grammer and English texts), so I've written down several titles that I plan to pick up for myself. I just hope I don't make a huge mistake - I'm learning so much so fast - but if I doubt myself, I always ask; better to follow protocol than to confuse everyone. And I do have to say, the student workers and the bosses are incredibly patient and helpful. It's wonderful to come home at night and feel that I've helped someone.
Prayers for G. You know who you are. Sweet dreams.
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