#going from thanksgiving to a family trip (driving 24 hours both ways and spending a week…. took everything out of me) to Christmas | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

duketheman · 5 years ago

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Generation 4 Part 4

Skipping ahead seven months

Sunday November 24, 2019

"John Ross comes home for the Holidays"

It's 4:30am & I'm finishing up my cup of coffee & Mary is asleep as she's getting close to the Delivery date & I want her to rest. I'm sure she'll be up before I get back from the Airport with JR! His flight is scheduled to arrive at 6:00am & I'm being cautious as to have plenty of time to park & meet him at the gate! We don't miss Church, so we'll attend evening service tonight! It's 4:45am & I'm on my way to Miami International to pick up JR. Mary is so excited & as for Kellyanne, I've asked George to bring her to the house later! JR wanted to surprise her, so we didn't mention him coming home yet! It's 5:30am & I've arrived at the airport. I park in the Garage & walk across to the terminal to the arrival gate! I go to the coffee shop & purchase a Cinnamon Bun & a cup of coffee, sit down & wait for the flight to land! Ahh, his flight is landing! It 6:15am & late. But no matter, it's here, safe & that's what counts! The airport is just starting to get crowded Thanksgiving holiday & all! It's 6:40am & JR is just getting through Security! I tell: ~JR!!!!~ He sees me & walks towards in my direction. First words out of his mouth: ~Dad, how Kellyanne, God I miss her! Oh you to Dad, how have you & mom been, Is she showing big now?~ I reply: ~We've been fine & yeaaa! She showing real big son! Did Kellyanne tell you she's got a baby sister coming around the same time as you new baby

brother?~ He replies: ~Yea, that's something, isn't Dad! Weird but I like it. They can be best friends! Let's go home Dad, I really want to to see Mom. I miss her so much! Sometimes when I was down & stuck on something I thought I couldn't do; Mom encouraged me & told me I can do anything if I put my mind to it! Just like when I was a kid! She called me allot Dad!~ I reply: ~She's that way son. Always has been. She loves you more than anything! Let's go, she's probably awake & cooking us breakfast as we speak!~ We pick his bags out from the Baggage Carousel, left the terminal & walked across to the garage where my Beamer was parked! It's 7:55am & we're headed for home! We're pulling into our Driveway & it's 9:00am. JR darts for the house! He really missed his Mother! I get the bags & carry them into the house! I open the door & the two of them are hugging each other like it's been years! My wife is crying she's so happy to see her little man! I walk by them with the bags & carry them upstairs to JR's room! I smell food & I welcome it, I'm starving! She's got Bacon, sausage, Biscuits, white gravy, eggs & grape jelly on the table. Grape is JR's favorite! We have Orange juice, milk, coffee & apple juice for Mary. My wife says: ~You boys dig in now, while it's hot!~ Nobody has to tell me twice, I'm hungry! I'm finished eating, & I get up, pick up the table & clean everything up. That gives time for Mary to catch up with JR! Afterall, at 12:30pm, Kellyanne will be here & they're going to be spending an awful lot of time together! I'm done with the dishes, those two are still at it, so I go into the library & read up on seaman regulations! They're constantly changing! Wow, two hours & my eyes are killing me, I need a break! Doorbell is ringing, it 12:25pm. It's George, Lucy & Kellyanne! I invite them in & before I can say anything, Kellyanne sees JR. She yells out in Joy: ~John Ross! 'O John Ross, I didn't even know you were going to be here! When did you get in?~ He replies: ~I wanted to surprise you! I got in early this morning! I've missed you so much Kellyanne!~ She replies:

~John Ross, I've missed you terribly! I'm so happy you're home! How long are are you home for John Ross?~ He replies: ~ I have to leave on January 2, 2020. I'm here until after the Holidays!~ The go into the other room so they can talk! Man, I can't tell who's belly is bigger! Oh well, next month the new ones will be filling everybody's hearts with joy!

Skipping ahead to November 27

It's 7:00am & Mary, myself, JR, George, Lucy & Kellyanne are getting ready to board a flight to Valdosta Regional Airport Headed to spend the Holidays with my parents! Mary's Parents & Julia's Mother will also be joining us at the Mansion! We've checked our luggage & it's 7:30am. Our flight leaves at 8:00am & we're going through Security now! It's 7:55am & we're boarding the plane! The trip is expected to be smooth & take approximately 4 hours with 1 stop. We should be landing at about 12:00pm! I will be happy to see my parents & JR certainly will enjoy seeing all of his Grandparents in one place. This will probably be the last time he'll see his Grandma Rachael! She's been in poor health lately. I'm glad she'll have time with JR! It's 12:05pm & we're landing. We disembark the plane & run through Security. It's 12:45pm & we're heading towards the Baggage Carousel! The ladies are seated so not to put strain on them. They are just about a week from due date! My Father has sent a Limousine service to pick us up because of the amount of people! I spot the Chofer holding a sign with our name on it! I signal him to come & give us a hand! We get a Baggage cart & load the luggage onto it & head for the door. The Car is parked at the loading zone. We help the ladies in the we get in. The Chofer loads the luggage in the trunk! We're on our way to Madison County, just across the State line. About 30-35 minutes from here to the Mansion! It's 1:30am & we're pulling onto the Grounds of Newport Mansion! George says: ~Dang Harry, dis place be beautiful! I ain't neva seen a place be like dis!~ I reply: ~It's just a place to live George! Too big for me!~ My Parents are both outside waiting for us as we pull up! My Mother is quite famous for her Sweet tea & Lemonade! My Grandma Nippy's recipe! She welcome everyone. She kisses me on the cheek & my wife & says:

~We've missed you!~ She shakes the hands of George & Lucy & says: ~You're most welcome here, consider yourselves part of the family. My name is Candace, you may call me Candy!~ She looks at Kellyanne & says: ~Now, who do we have here child? Such a Beautiful young Lady!~ She replies: ~My name is Kellyanne Mam, Pleased to meet you! Mother replies: ~ So polite! Well then Kellyanne, you can call me Grandma if you wish. ~Now everyone, this is Charles, my husband Harry's Father!~ She turns to JR & says: ~Now John Ross, come here my boy & let you Grandma give you some love!~ He walks over to Mother & holds out his arms & my Mother gives her Grandson a hug to remember! She says: 'O John Ross, I've missed you so much! I'm so proud of you & I'm so glad you could make it & spend the Holidays with us!

Rachael, will be flying in tonight, Will & Laura are driving & should be here soon! Our family keeps growing! Now for you two expecting Mothers, arrangements have been made with Madison County Memorial Hospital! I have a Dr Jameson on call in case of an emergency! I believe your Doctor is Kleinpeter? Dr Jameson says that he knows him!

Dr Jameson has with your permission agreed to take over while you're here? Both Mary & Lucy simultaneously say: ~Of course, & thanks Mom, Mary adds!~ Mother calls for Huntington: ~Huntington, please show our guest to their rooms!~ He replies: ~Yes Mam, (looks at us) right this way please?~ George asks: ~Harry, a Butler, well day beat all! Dis place be Beautiful Harry!~ Mother says loudly: ~We've had a late lunch prepared for you, if you're hungry!~ I reply: ~Yes, thank you Mother, I'm quite

hungry!~ George adds: ~Me too, me belly be achin, really achin! Me be thirsty too! Harry, Rich people drink beer?~ I reply: Yes George, my Father was born in Texas. He enjoys a cold Bud once in a while! But he quite likes his Brandy!~ He replies: ~Me too!~ I leave my wife upstairs to change & come down to say a real hello to my Father: ~Hello Father, I've missed you!~ He turns to me & says: ~Son, I've missed you too! I'm so happy you came to spend the Holidays with us!~ He hugs me & says: ~ I love you Son!~ I've always been close to my Father! He's a Good man & has always done his very best for his family! I ask: ~Father, will my Sister & Brothers be joining us?~ He replies: ~Jaime had to make a choice! She's spending Thanksgiving with Bill's parents! They'll be joining us for Christmas! You're Brothers have to work through Thanksgiving because of some bureaucratic meddling! They'll be joining us this weekend!~ Everyone is coming downstairs, let's go into the Drawing room, Huntington will be serving a late lunch! Just some horderves & little stuff like that to hold you over until dinner.~ We all enter the Drawing room & Father asks: ~Drinks anyone?~ George is ready: ~Bud please?~ Father replies:

~Of course George, Would you be a Seaman by any chance my good man?~ aye, Me would Sir!~ Both our wives reply: ~Sprite if you don't mind?~ The kids have already got Coke! I request: ~Scotch on the Rocks~ In comes Huntington: ~Horderves!~ He's serving us one by one! Shrimp, Caviar, Olives, Rolled Ham, & other various treats! Kids ask him if he'd just make the a couple sandwiches & he happily agreed! We sat, enjoyed each other's company toasted the expecting Mother's & my Parents as well as Mary's & of course Rachael! It's nice being around family & friends. I'm really glad we made this trip!

4:00pm & Mary's parents just arrived from Raleigh, NC. They've got to be tired, that's at least a 11 hour trip; allowing stopping to rest & eat! Straight through, mmmmh, I'd say 8 1/2 hours! Either way, it's hard on them at their age! Mary & Mother & myself meet them at the car, & I get their luggage out of the trunk! Laura looks at her daughter & begins to cry out of happiness! She places her hand on Mary's belly, giggles & says: ~I can feel the little guy kicking in their!~ Mother walks up to Laura & says:

~Welcome my Dear Friend, we're so glad you could join us for the Holidays!~ She replies: 'O Candice, we appreciate you guys so much. I wouldn't miss it for the world, & besides; my Baby is having a Baby! Now where is John Ross?~ I reply: ~He's somewhere around here with Kellyanne!~ She replies: ~Kellyanne? Our Little man is not so little anymore, is he?~I reply: ~No Laura, he's in love!~ She remarks: ~Well, that sounds serious!~ I say: ~Yes, it is!~ Mary hugs her Father & kisses his cheek, hugs him again & says: ~'O Daddy, I've missed you so much! How have you & Mom been doing? Have you stayed well?~ He replies:~Yes my Dear, We've been well! I get quite bored with myself since I retired from the University, but it's worth it to spend more time with your Mother! We've missed you too!~ Candace he says: ~Where's Charles?~ She replies: ~Charles has gone to the Airport! Rachael's flight is scheduled to arrive at 5:00pm from Dallas! They'll be pulling in before you know it! Let's go inside?~ We all go into the Mansion & Mother calls for Huntington: ~Huntington, please show my Dear friends to their room?~ He replies: ~Yes mam~ She adds: ~Will, Laura, We'll let you freshen up! We can talk after!~ Huntington grabs their bags & shows them to their room! It's 6:00pm & Father's arrived with Rachael! Mother & I meet them at the car. I open the rear passenger door & help Rachael out. I hug her & say: ~Mom, I'm so glad you could make it! The Holidays wouldn't be the same without you!~ She replies: ~I almost didn't come Harry, I was hurting, but I want to see you & my Grandson one more time before I join my Baby & Jimmy in Heaven! Where is that boy?~ I reply: ~I'll find him for you Mom! He's around here somewhere, he doesn't know you're here yet!~ Mother asks: ~How was your trip Rachael? How are you feeling?~ She replies: ~The trip was fine Candy, I'm just a little tired! How are you doing?~ Mother replies: ~I'm doing pretty good for an old Lady! Come inside & rest, I'll have Huntington take your bags to your room!~ They go inside & I'm in search of my son! There they are, on the swing! I call out: ~JR! Your Grandma Marcantel is here! Go see her!~ He replies: ~Grammy's here, come on Kellyanne, you'll just love her!~ He takes Kellyanne by the hand & heads for the house to see his Grandmother! She has pancreatic cancer & it's spread beyond control! There's no more they can do! This is the last time he'll see her! She's all that's left of Julia besides my son! I go back to the house & go inside! Everyone is sitting in the Drawing room talking & getting to know each other! I ask George: ~How's it going Buddy, enjoying yourself?~ He replies: ~aye Harry, ya be havin a huge family ya be Harry! Me like very allot!~

It's 7:00pm & Huntington announces: ~Dinner is being served in the Dinning room!~ We all go towards the Dining & are seated! George's eyes have doubled in size! I haven't seen this table filled in years, since my Wedding! The food looks Delicious. Tomorrow is the Big one, Thanksgiving! Mother goes all out! We finish dinner & retire to the Drawing room. It's 9:00pm & my Father offers drinks. The kids are drinking soft drinks. The ladies all, except for Mother, request just water. Rebecca needs to take her meds. The remaining four of us have Brandy! We sit & visit & we are truly family! It's 10:00pm & we're all tired! Rachael calls me over & whispers to me: ~Harry, please take me to see my Julia in the morning?~ I reply: ~Of course I will Mom! First thing.... We say Goodnight & retire to our rooms respectfully! My poor Mary, her legs are swelled up, so I run her a warm bath. I wash her back for her, I love pampering my wife! I take a shower & we both get into bed. I rub her legs for her to make them feel better! We lay down & I put my arm around her, resting my hand on her belly! I can feel the baby moving around inside of her, God is Good! Goodnight all!

Thursday, November 28

Thanksgiving Morning

Julia's Grave

It's early, 6:00am, & My son & I are up drinking coffee! The others are still sleeping. I promised Rachael that I would take her over to the East side of the property to see Julia's grave! JR wanted to come along to see his Mother's grave & asked if he could come along! It's 7:00am & Rebecca has come down stairs. I ask: ~Coffee mom?~ She replies: ~No, but thank you Harry! Coffee doesn't agree with me anymore. Maybe some juice diluted with water?~I reply: ~Sure mom, Apple juice okay?~ She replies: ~That will be fine Harry, Thanks!~ She takes out this pharmacy of medication out & begins to take them a few at a time! She asks: ~Harry, can I have a piece of toast, no butter? Just to settle my stomach!~ I reply: ~Sure mom, I'll fix it for you now!~ I give a plate with toast & she nibbles on it until it's gone!

It's 8:00am & I borrowed my Father's car! We're enroute to the East side of the property where our Family Cemetery's located! It's about a twenty minute drive. It's 8:25 & we've arrived at the cemetery. I help Rachael out of the car & the three of us walk over to Julia's grave. Rachael puts her hand on the Gravestone & talks to her daughter with tears in her eyes: ~I'll be with you & your Daddy soon Baby! We all miss you so much! John Ross is here! He misses you too Julia! But he's doing fine! You'd be so proud of him, he's grown into a fine young man!~ She closed eyes and said a prayer. JR took hold of her hand & prayed with her. He said: ~I love you Mom, I've never forgotten how you use to hold me! I never will Mom, I promise!~ I too had my own private talk with Julia, I shall keep to myself! Rachael asks: ~Harry, what a beautiful Headstone! I've never quite seen one like this before!~ I reply: ~Julia always loved the Dolphins! I only thought it right to have them watch over her!~ She replies:

Thank you Harry for that! She always thought they were the true Mermaids of the Sea! She had a whole shelf full as a little girl!~ I place an array of Julia's favorite flowers on her grave! I say: ~Mom, you know we all love you. You know JR & I love you. My Parents love you! Mom, we'd like to move Dad from Shreveport & lay him to rest beside Julia with your permission! Mom, we've a spot here for you too! She's got tears in her eyes & replies: ~Harry, we have nobody in Shreveport! Yes, of course you have my permission! Harry, our Julia loved you very much! God Bless you

Harry!~ We get back in the car & ride back to the Mansion! Throughout the day we all had time to catch up. Later that evening......

Thanksgiving Dinner

6:00pm

Huntington rings a bell: Dinner is being served! May I offer my Heartfelt Happy Thanksgiving to you all. Mother announces: ~Today is Thanksgiving Huntington, & you are considered part of this family. You'll be eating with us tonight Huntington!~ He replies: ~Yes Mam, thank you mam!~ I've never seen Huntington smile before, but he's smiling now!

The twelve of us all go to the Dining room & are seated as such: Mother & Father at each end. Rachael is seated on Mother's right & Huntington on her left. Kellyann is seated next to Rachael & JR next to Huntington. Lucy is seated next to Kellyanne & her George next to JR. Mary's Mother is seated next to Lucy & he Father is seated next to George. Mary is seated on my Father's left & I on his right! My Father says Grace over the Thanksgiving Feast. Amen. The table is set in a Formal matter & with a Feast fit for Royalty, everything anyone could imagine. My Mother always does it right!

We eat drink & be Thankful for the food, love of Family & all God has provided us! God is Truly Good! God Bless us all!

We're finished with dinner & all retire to the Drawing room for Drinks & conversation! Mother decides that it's time that we put some Christmas music on! Tomorrow she will be putting up a tree! She has a 21ft Douglas Fur being trucked in from Atlanta in the morning.

We're singing Christmas Carols, we've only 27 days till Christmas! It's 11:30pm. Rachael looks tired. She needs to rest, I help her upstairs to her room! She's in pain & I ask: ~Mom, is there anything I can do?~ She replies:

~No Harry, It'll pass! I just need to rest! Thank you Harry, for everything! I reply: ~Goodnight Mom, Sleep well!~

I go back downstairs & join the rest of the Family! It's 1:00am & we decide to end the night & retire to our rooms.

Mary's Water Breaks!

We say our Goodnights & go upstairs. While in the bathroom, Mary calls me in: ~Harry, it's time,my water broke!~ I reply ~Darling, it's too early!~ I'm quite anxious by now! She has a bag ready & I proceed to take her downstairs, only stopping to knock on Mother's door to let her know & Mary's parents, who's wanting to accompany us. They'll drive since their car is here! Mother's calling Dr Jameson to meet us at Memorial!

We make Madison County Hospital & its 2:15am. Professor Covington drops us off at the Emergency entrance & I grab a wheelchair & wheel Mary in. I'm going out of my mind & Mary is cool, calm & collective. We get her admitted & Dr Jameson arrives. He examines her & says: ~How are you doing young lady?~ Mary replies: ~I'm having a Baby!~ He turns to me & asks: ~Your the Father, Are you going to be in there with her~ I reply I can be there too?~ He replies ~Yes, of course, better hurry & get ready! She's almost fully dilated, it won't be long! He tells the nurse to have me wash my hands, get me a gown & mask. He has Mary get in a gown & lay on a gurney. The wheel her I to the delivery room & I follow. They transfer her to a Delivery table. The Dr asks: ~Want an epidural?~ She replies: No Doctor, I want this to be natural!~ The nurse says: ~She's fully dilated Doctor~ He replies: ~Good, I want you to breathe!~ I'm watching this as he reaches between her legs, gently grasp this little head coming out of my wife!

Friday November 29, 2019

Time of Birth: 4:11am

Harry Jr. 7 lbs 13oz

He's crying as he comes out. I always thought they had to swat the rear end. I'm evidently wrong! He hands him to the nurse who places him on my wife's belly as he cuts the umbilical cord & cleans the fluids out of his mouth & nose! They wrap him in a blanket & hand him to me, while they clean Mary up! He's perfect & healthy & his Mother his okay too. God is Good, thank you Lord!

They're done cleaning her up, I kiss her & say:

~I love you Mrs Newport, he's perfect. ~ She replies: ~'O my Harry, I love!~ They hand her the baby & she's as proud as she can be! She crying & says: Harry: ~His name is Harold Joseph Jr.!~ She named him after me!

They tell they're taking her to the room & will let me know when I & the Grandparents can come in! I go to the visiting room & give Mary's parents the news. They are ecstatic that they have a new Grandson. It's 5:30am & I call my Mother. I spoke to JR & told him he has a new baby Brother. Everyone is excited to hear the news & are making ready to come to the Hospital. It's 8:00am, my parents, JR & Kellyanne arrive to visit Marry! The Baby is in the Nursery for now & can be viewed through a window. George & Lucy will visit later when I come back to the Hospital! Rebecca is not feeling well & is resting in her room. Mother has hired a nurse to stay with us as long as Rachael needs her! It's 10:00am & I kiss my wife, tell her I love her & I need to go get a couple hours rest & check on Rachael! We'll ride home with my parents & I'll return this afternoon. We head home & Mary's parents will follow so she can get her rest. We get home, it's 10:50am. I go upstairs to check on Rachael & find she's in pain. I ring for the nurse & she explains that she just gave her a shot of Morphine & anymore would be dangerous! She get some cool towels so to bring her temperature under control. I ask: ~Mom, how are you doing?~ She replies: ~It'll pass son, thank you~ She told me to get the envelope out of the Nightstand next to the bed: ~Harry, that letter gives you my Power of Attorney to handle any & all my business if necessary! I'm leaving the house to John Ross! It's his Mother's Childhood home! Please see that it's taken care of?~ I reply: ~Mom, you're not going

anywhere!~ She replies: ~Sure Harry, please do as I ask?~ I reply: ~I will Mom!~ The Morphine's doing its job & she falls asleep! She's a good woman & when she's gone, JR's only link to Julia will be too! He loves his Grammy & she loves him! Cancer took Julia, her Father & now it's taking Rachael!

The Christmas tree’s Delivered

It's 11:35am & The delivery truck is here from Atlanta with the Christmas tree. Beautiful tree Mother has them bring it into the house & set it up in the Grand Foyer. She loves to go big! I'm going to lay down for a couple hours so I can get back to the Hospital! It's 2:30pm & I'm headed back to the Hospital, George & Lucy are accompanying me! Lucy's looking pretty tired & I hope she's okay! George is getting excited about having another child! It's 3:00pm & we arrive at the Hospital! We park, go inside & we pass Mary's parents on the way out! Laura says: ~The Baby is perfect Harry!~ Professor Covington adds: ~Yes he is, congratulations my boy! We're going back to the house. See you there!~ I reply: Thanks, I just want you to know, I'm really glad you could be here! Talk to you when we get back!~ We go up to Mary's room, she's breastfeeding the baby! George is immediately embarrassed so she covers he breast & he relaxes! Lucy say: ~How are you feeling Mary?~ She replies~ Alls well Lucy, the baby's healthy & is a perfect little guy! He looks like Harry~ She smiles & winks at me! I'm so happy they're both okay! Mary asks Lucy: ~How are you Lucy?~ She replies: ~Oh, I'm Ooooo, ahh, I'm doing, ohhhhh, George: I think it's time~ as she holds her belly... George replies: ~Time for what me luv? Oh, Oh naw, now?~ He runs out in the hall yelling for a nurse. Lucy calmly walks out & sits in a wheelchair. Mary says: ~Go with them Harry, until he settles down! I'll be fine, not going anywhere!~ I tell George to settle down, & I ask the nurse to call Dr Jameson! Lucy's water just broke & now George is frantic: ~Calm down George, everything is fine. That's supposed to happen! Weren't you there when she had Kellyanne?~ He replies: ~Me wasn't here Harry, Navy, on a

Ship!~ I reply: ~Okay old man, everything's good!~ He settling down, Doctor's here & he takes her into the exam room! Been fifteen minutes & the Doctor comes out & asks George: ~It's time Mr Richards, coming?~ I say: ~Go with the nurse George! She'll show you where to wash your hands!~ He replies: ~Fer what? I reply: ~So you can be in there with her!~ He replies: ~Me, in der, me can be wit me Lucy? Ohhh, Okay, Me be seein ya Harry!~ He looks awfully nervous, I sincerely hope he doesn't faint! I tell him to let me know when the baby comes. I go back to my wife's room, she's holding the baby! She hands the little guy to me. He's grabs my pinky finger. His grip is strong. Just like when JR was born! I'm holding a miracle in my arms, a new life. I'm worried about Rachael too, I don't think she's got long. She says she's ready, she wants to be with Julia & The Rev!.......

Friday, November 29, 2019

Time of Birth: 7:03pm

Anabel 6lbs 2 oz

It's 7:15pm & George comes into the room: ~Me little girl be born at 7:03pm. She be Beautiful Harry, but Me need a beer!~ I ask: ~What's her name George?~ He replies: ~Anabel Josephine Richards, after me Mum!~ I reply: ~That's a Beautiful name George, is she in the Nursery?~ He nods his head Yes, & we go to see the Annabelle! She's really quite a beautiful baby. George says: ~She got me mum's eyes~ I reply: ~She's Beautiful George, Congratulations old man!~ He replies: ~Well then, Me be thankful to God, & Harry, ifin ya not be mindin, Me & me Lucy be wantin fer ya & ya Mary to be da Godmuder & Fadder, dat is, ifin ya not be mindin?~ I reply: ~George, we will be honored!~ Next he takes me to see Lucy, she had a rough time of it. She went natural too, but was in labor four hours! She's doing well now! George says: ~Me neva see nuttin like it Harry! Dat der Doctor reach down der & he pull me little girl out! Harry, she be so little, when I be holdin her, be like a bird! Awhh Me be Lovin her Harry & me Lucy too!~ I reply: ~I know old man! You call Kellyanne yet & tell her she's got a new Baby sister?~ He replies: ~Nay, Me ferget Harry! Me do now!~ I tell him I'm going back to Mary's room, there's only twenty minutes of visiting time left. Both our wives need to get their rest. Mary & Harry Jr are scheduled to be released tomorrow. I'm back in Mary's room. The nurse just gave me a ten minute heads up! I say: ~Darling, you sure gave us a Beautiful baby. I love you with all my life!~ I kiss & hold her in my arms for a minute. It's 9:00pm straight up & the nurse reaffirms it by telling me, Visiting hours are over. I say thanks, kiss my wife & tell her I will be here at 8:00am to sign her & the baby out! I meet George out in the hall, head downstairs & to Father's car! We head back to the Mansion. It's 10:00pm & we arrive, followed by my sister Jamie & her husband Bill Langley. They drove in from Little Rock! We step out of the car & greet them. I introduce George & fill them in with the news. Been a busy last couple of days. Jamie asks: ~How is Mary & the baby?~ I reply: ~They're doing well & Jamie, Little Harry is absolutely perfect!~ She hugs me & kisses me on the cheek: ~I'm glad Harry, you two deserve all the happiness in the world!~ Then she turns to George & says: ~How are your wife & baby doing?~ He replies: ~Good, me be thankin ya fer askin~ We go I to the house & our parents are waiting for me. They didn't know that Jamie & Bill were coming in tonight? Mother sees Jamie, & is surprised: ~Jaime, I wasn't aware you were coming in tonight! She hugs & kisses her hello, hugs Bob, he's a man of few words! Jaime sees Father, & like a little girl, runs into his arms: ~Daddy, 'O I've missed you Daddy! How have you been?~ He replies: ~Quite well Jaime! I've missed you too! I wish we could see more of you!~ They hug & my sister is reluctant to release him. She's always been a "Daddy's Little Girl". Mother calls for Huntington: ~Huntington, please show my Daughter & Son in-law to their room?~ He replies ~Yes Mam! He takes their bags & shows them to the room! Mother says: ~Tomorrow's the first day of December Son! Everyone will be here, the girls will be home from the hospital & we're going to decorate the tree!~ I reply: ~Yes Mother, I'm bringing Mary & the Baby home tomorrow morning. Lucy & their little one should be getting the next day! Right George?~ George replies: ~Right, Sunday!~ Mother replies: ~Good then, this is so wonderful, I just love Christmas time! God has graced us once again with two new lives, what can be better than that?, Goodnight you two! We tell my mother Goodnight & she goes upstairs! My Father says: ~You both look like you can use a drink! I reply reply: ~Scotch please Father?~ George replies: ~Me too, please, Me be thankin ya fer it Sir!~ My Father says: ~Very well~ He pours us both a Scotch on the rocks. We toast each other, drink our drinks & say Goodnight! Its been a long couple of days but we're Blessed!

Continued

#newports

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mubal4 · 5 years ago

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Race Wrap Up – Special Edition – McDowell Mountain Frenzy 50 Miler

This one is taking a bit of a different turn and likely a long one 😊. Typically, I would share my journey of a race, the highs & lows, and the events that unfolded throughout the day. Well, I plan on doing the same, sharing the day, but with some foundation, backdrop, and a twist. This wrap up, or more correctly stated, this journey is about my friend, Jeff Beck and his incredible story I was so grateful to witness over the last year and the exclamation point that was our 14 plus hours together Saturday!

To start though I would like to, as always, the great folks at Aravaipa Running. A top-notch event and even better organization. Being out here for over a year I’ve been fortunate to race in and volunteer at over a dozen of their events and it is a great group. The owners, staff, and volunteers are just great people and I have been able to build some cool friendships with a few of them. So, thanks team – you guys rock. To the crews, families, spectators and fellow runners, you are all amazing people. I fell in love with this community back in PA and it is heart warming to know that that same culture is in play out here in AZ. The support you show for each other, your runners, and complete strangers is awesome. Thank you. To the Beck family, thank you for embracing me and allowing me to spend time with your son over the last year. It has been an incredible experience and my family’s thoughts and prayers, as well us support are there for you. Jeff – I will get to you momentarily 😊! Last but not least, Robin, Alaina, and Isabella – I say it often and you hear it countless times, I am so grateful I get to do these crazy things and it wouldn’t be the same without your love and support along the way. The sacrifices you all make for me to continue to pursue this passion and journey is greatly appreciated. Unfortunately Isabella wasn’t able to make it for babysitting duties but kudos to Robin for dropping me off at the early morning, heading back home (60 miles round trip) and coming back out for the last 2 hours of the race &, &, her and Alaina standing in the rain to watch the finish. That is special right there. So, thank you all. You ALL make be better 😊.

On with the show……….It started a little over a year ago, December 1, 2018, at this same race. It was the first race since moving to AZ that I was volunteering. I had signed up to work a remote aid station at the base of Thompson Peak, one of the more prominent mountains around Phoenix that is distinguished by the couple antenna towers on top. The 50k runners hit this aid station once and the 50 milers twice, prior to heading up Thompson Peak and then again at the bottom before continuing another 16+ miles to the finish. It was here that I met Jeff and his brother, Greg. The three of us, along with another gent, Mike, would be manning this aid station for the better portion of the day. It was the first time the other guys had ever volunteered so we discussed how things would likely play out and what tasks we would all be good at. Mike ensured we had the supplies, water, and necessities fully stocked, Jeff did his best Julia Child’s making sure there were sandwiches, burritos, and goodies for the runners, & Greg and I were out front with water and fluids, and some well needed positivity throughout the day. By the time the masses started coming by we were a well-oiled machine operating like clockwork. We had some great feedback from the runners as well as the race staff about our aid station and, it was just an overall great day with a great crew. We all told stories and connected in a number of ways. That said, Jeff and I bonded closely because of a shared interest in trail and ultrarunning, and Jeff has published some books so, figured I could pick his brain over that. As the day ended, we exchanged numbers and Jeff shared with me a desire to get back to trail running and “maybe do an ultra in 2019.” The seed was planted at that point and his journey began.

Over the next several weeks we got together for coffee (he doesn’t drink Starbucks – brews his own stuff and it is AWESOME!! 😊) and an occasional run. During one of those times, about a week or so out from my Black Canyon 100k Race this past February, we talked about him pacing me the last 10 miles. I thought this would be a great idea and we made it a plan. Jeff was going to pace me the last 10 miles of the race and Robin and the girls would meet us at the finish. Plans Change!! Because of weather and a lot of rain the week leading up to the race the course was diverted because of high water crossings and rerouted. Therefore, there were no last 10 miles, it was now 24 miles. I would meet Robin, the girls, and Jeff, essentially at the 34-mile mark and Jeff would join me from there. Well, Jeff didn’t disappoint, didn’t complain, and just kept moving, all 24+ miles; the most he had ran in a very long time, if ever and a crazy way to start training for his journey on running his first ultra-ever. He said, with respect to that day, it gave him the confidence and the comfort in himself that this was very, very possible. Tell you what, I was so proud of him that day; hell seeing him cross the finish line may have been more fulfilling. At that point, I believe is where his transformation began. Over the next several months we exchanged texts and he was updating me on his training and in the late summer, I decided that I would also run in the 2019 edition of the McDowell Mountain Frenzy 50 mile. Ironic that Jeff had picked the same race we volunteered at to be his A race of this journey. He also signed up for a number of 50k races throughout the fall to get used to that time on feet. In September, he completed his 1st ultra, the Javalina Jangover 50k and then another one in November, Pass Mountain 50k. I was incredibly proud of both efforts, just to toe the line and the amazing progress he was making. Not surprising though because he was working his ass off and sharing with me some of his training. I believe there was one point I said to Robin, “he may have lost his mind.” 😊!!! I am laughing out loud as I typed that!!! After Pass Mountain, he had some recovery time and then all but waiting until THE RACE – 50 miles with the wonderful 2000 feet climb up Thompson Peak, over 2 miles, 50k into the race. Awesome right – downright evil I tell ya 😊. We shared some texts leading up to Thanksgiving week and planned to connect at the start, share some miles and see where the day takes each of us.

One main reason I love the sport of ultrarunning is because it is a metaphor for life. You will have good days and bad days; peaks and valleys. There will be days you can’t wait to get out there on the trails and others you dread taking that first step. There are days that things go as expected, and then there are days where you get punched square in the face. Life doesn’t play favorites and, as I am learning, you must take what the trail is giving you that day. A week out from the race the Beck family experienced an unexpected loss. I received a text a week ago today, Tuesday, about the news, and Jeff indicated, after much discussion with the family, he was going to still race. I cried!! I cried for their loss (dammit I am crying now!!) I cried for all his work and effort, I cried because my friend was going to do what he set out to do.

About 6 or so weeks out from the race, Jeff and I went on a 20-mile run, tracing portions of the 50-mile course and hitting the climb up to Thompson Peak. It was a great day with wonderful conversation and interesting topics discussed 😊. Every time we’ve ran together, and it hasn’t been a tremendous amount, but a handful, for me, the miles seem to tick off very smoothly and easily. I’ve really enjoyed the miles with him. After this day, I was driving home and thinking about the race coming up. Typically, I have an idea of how I can see the race unfolding. I try to let go of expectations but there are certainly thoughts of having a good day, and ideal day, or a magical day. For me, this race was my last for the year before I begin the 2020 year and buckling down for what I have planned. So, I really didn’t have any expectations leading up to this point. However, after running with Jeff this day and considering I had a window seat for this journey since day one, I was interested to see how things were going to unfold for him. “Maybe I should just pace him for the day.” Well, last Tuesday, that thought became a reality and that is what I decided to do. My intent for this race to make sure he got to that finish line under the cutoff.

Race day came and we stood should to shoulder at the start and our day began. Jeff had a plan and we pretty much stuck to it up until the climb to Thompson Peak. Each mile we would run most of it and then hike a portion with the intent of saving legs for the finish. Jeff was excited about getting to run the last 8 miles with his wife Stephanie. I wanted to ensure I got him to that point and see where things go from there. I didn’t want to be a 3rd wheel on their trail run date after running 42 miles 😊. We ticked off miles throughout the morning hitting aid station; Jeff staying on point with his nutrition and hydration. There were no issues, at least major ones. We both had some belly stuff going on for a brief stint, but we nipped that quickly and we were cruising smooth and steady. We met some great fellow runners and had some good conversations. Jeff and I talked about favorite movies, restaurants, kids, parenting, life, and gratitude. A lot of gratitude. We were on cruise control. Of course, the little nuisances of running these distances began to creep up but Jeff didn’t waiver and he continued with his plan and just at the right time, we began to climb. The Thompson Peak climb is the beast of the race but there are several miles leading up to it that get your heart pumping too. He powered through those and after a long, 10.5 mile stretch from aid to aid, we were back, where it all started a year ago; the aid station at the base of Thompson Peak. This time, Jeff’s dad and brother were manning the aid station and, Jeff and I were racing; headed up this beast. After Jeff got situation, we began the 4+ mile round trip, 2k foot climb to the radio towers. There wasn’t much conversation heading up, only an occasional “how ya doing?” But, after a steady climb and some power hiking, we got to the top, checked in, and enjoyed the moment for a spell. There was some carnage at the top, not too many folks but about 3-4 laid out. We didn’t want to stay too long so turned around and started the decent back to the aid station. Overall, things were continuing to move, and we were well ahead of the cutoff. After a quick pit stop and goodbyes to Jeff’s dad and brother, we were on our way to meet up with Jeff’s wife Stephanie for the last 8-mile loop. There was about 9 miles between us and her and the clouds began to roll in at this point and it was starting to get dark. Jeff, smartly, had his headlamp, however, I was left to use my cell phone as it was nighttime rolling into the last aid station before heading for home base. Jeff cruised right through and before we knew it, we were picking up Stephanie for the last 8 miles. At this point, I got to see Robin and Alaina for a brief spell, changed into a long-sleeve shirt (good choice!!!) and got rid of my vest for my handheld. After our goodbyes, Stephanie, Jeff, and I were off to finish this up. About a mile into our last 8, we started to feel some drops of rain. Those drops turned into a drizzle that then began to outright rain. It lasted for most of that 8 miles and seemed to come down harder and harder the closer we got to the finish. At this point, we were picking off some runners and enjoying some time with others; I was a bit giddy while trying to give Jeff and Stephanie their space to enjoy this moment. Think about it, he, THEY, have been working at this for a year and it was all culminating now. Only a few short miles left (Jeff may not have thought they were short miles at this time). You add on the circumstances of their loss, the emotion, and bundle all that together. I was so happy for them all but especially for Jeff. He friggin set out to do this thing a year ago and busted his ass to get to this point, overcame so much, and the support his family showed was, well F%$&ING AMAZING!!! At about 2 miles out from the finish, I heard Stephanie behind me say, “we are running.” From that moment on, until we crossed the finish line, we ran. He had spent over 14 hours on his feet, over 48 miles, and he was running, not shuffling, not hiking, not jogging, he was running. At this point, we can see the light of the finish and hear the music playing. And yes, it was still raining hard but that didn’t mean anything to us because at just before 930pm on Saturday, December 7, 2019, Jeff Beck completed the McDowell Mountain Frenzy 50-mile ultramarathon. Yes, he completed the race, but it was all about the journey he traveled.

Jeff – I thank you for letting me be a part of this journey over the last year. I am grateful to you and your family for allowing me to join the ride. I am blessed to have been able to experience this moment with you and your family. I am so incredibly proud of you and so extremely fortunate to have you as a friend. Congratulations on the race but more meaningful on what it took for you to get here. You deserve it my friend. Love ya brother!!

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mikebrackett · 7 years ago

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How to Get Home for the Holidays for Cheap

Planning to travel for the holidays? Because rates for planes, trains and even buses can jump quickly, you’ll need a plan of action that begins now.

Talk to Your Significant Other and Family Members Early

The fastest way to add to your holiday budget is if you don’t really know which way you’re headed. If your parents live in separate states or you’ll be spending the holidays with a significant other’s family, have a discussion now to determine where you’re going.

Costs may drive which place you pick to travel to and when. For instance, you may find that it’s $200 cheaper to fly to Nebraska for Thanksgiving than it is for December celebrations. You could then opt to take a trip to California to see other family in December.

Check Multiple Sites, but Quickly

Flight prices can rise quickly as planes fill up, and popular travel sites may not include airlines such as Southwest Airlines. Check at least three aggregator sites and the airlines’ sites for the best prices. Try to do your research within a 24-hour period, but in the first hour, if you find a good price, do a 24-hour hold, even if it requires a credit card.

Just make sure you cancel within 24 hours if you get a better deal. You don’t want to end up paying for an extra plane ticket! Also, make sure you read all fine print to determine it’s a temporary hold. If you need to change plans after your tickets are booked, keep in mind that change fees will be involved.

Know Your Airport and Date Boundaries

Traveling an extra 20 – 80 miles may save you a few hundred dollars. Especially if you’re traveling to or from a city with multiple airports, avoid restricting your search to a particular airport when comparing prices, unless you truly are willing to fly in and out of that airport only.

For instance, I live in NYC. I have the option of JFK, LaGuardia or Newark. I’ll always search for NYC, but I have a strong preference for JFK and LaGuardia. Both of those airports take an hour to get to by public transport. However, if I leave early in the morning, I know the cab is twice the price to go to JFK.

When calculating the differences in flying into one airport versus the other, always include the prices of transportation or gas to and from the airport. If booking shuttles for a time as busy as the holiday season, get reservations in advance. If shuttles fill up, you’ll have to spring for an expensive cab ride.

Get Money Back if Last-Minute Sales Arise

Thanksgiving and the winter holiday season aren’t ideal to wait for last minute sales to arise. But if they do, you might be able to get a travel voucher back for the difference. Many airlines will give you a voucher (that you can use for another trip!) for the difference in price if there’s a sale at a later date.

All you have to do is call if you happen to check on their site and see a lower price. The agent checks to see if they see the same price and then issues the voucher.

Don’t Forget Trains and Buses

In the Northeast, trains and buses can be faster than planes. When I’m going from New York to DC, I rarely fly. By the time I add in the hour wait (two hours during the holidays) to arrive, get through security, buy snacks and board the plane, the entire trip takes four hours. That’s the same amount of time it is to take a bus and an hour longer than it takes to ride a train.

Trains aren’t necessarily cheaper than flights, but they can be more convenient and can be cheaper if one mode of transportation fills up faster than another. If you don’t live in a major metropolitan area, check bus prices. For example, Montana’s sparse population and often-pricey airfare means buses tend to make financial sense.

I took a bus from Helena, Montana to Spokane instead of choosing a flight that would’ve had a connecting flight. The trip only took a couple of hours longer, and I saved over $200.

Compare Prices Early for Hotels and Rental Cars, Too

In theory, it’s nice staying with family. But sometimes if you’re staying for longer than a few days, it’s nice to have your own space. Plus, your family might enjoy use of hotel pools and gyms. If you think you might need a hotel room or rental car, book as soon as possible and look for the best prices on multiple sites.

Even more than airfare, hotels and car rentals can vary greatly from site to site. I always start a rental car or hotel search by googling for prices. Then, I check around the sites that pop up as results. With hotels, those sites tend to be the usual suspects such as Hotels.com and the hotel’s official site. With rental cars, it could be a variety of sites.

Read the fine print, but always checks multiple sites, ask about hotel packages, and always call the hotel directly or rental car company reservation line. Unlike airlines, hotels and rental cars don’t charge extra for booking over the phone.

Do you have plans to travel this holiday season? Share your travel tips with fellow readers below!

The post How to Get Home for the Holidays for Cheap appeared first on ZING Blog by Quicken Loans.

from Updates About Loans https://www.quickenloans.com/blog/get-home-holidays-cheap

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masstoafrica1-blog · 8 years ago

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Training, Funding, and Inbetweens

Well, friends, I'm at training! It's been a long, bumpy, rut-filled road in several ways, and the journey isn't over. Since I last posted, there's been a lot going on, in almost every area of my life. I was able to spend the holidays with my family (who was in town) and several close friends. Over Thanksgiving, my brother's proposed! I had the opportunity to see my Uncle Chris, and tell my extended family about this trip. Over the last few months, I have been overwhelmingly grateful for my friends, both old and new, who have given me so much encouragement and grace. They have supported, strengthened, and taught me. Not the least of which lessons was one of humility and thankfulness. Then, there's fundraising. After my last post, I had an almost inescapable feeling of discouragement and doubt. It seemed like this trip was an impossible dream I had one night. I doubted whether or not God wanted me to go, and wondered if I had imagined all of the assurances of his will thus far. When I initially applied for the trip, and was waiting for a response and what to do if I was accepted, I asked a couple friends who had been to Africa about their individual trips and experiences there. Both conversations were incredibly illuminating and had a huge impact on my decision to join this team. One of these people asked me, "Is there anything you can think of that would stand in the way of you going?" All I could think of was if my application was not accepted. He was surprised. "Really? Nothing? Not even finances?" I thought for a moment, and replied honestly, "No." In the next few months since receiving a spot on this team in August, I remembered many things about these conversations, but none more clearly than that moment. I couldn't figure out how I had gone from complete confidence, to next to none. I entered a dark time in my faith. On the outside, I remained excited and hopeful, but inside I felt stranded. I stopped pushing towards my goals. I stopped praying and reading the Word not long after. I didn't know what was happening in and around me, and I didn't know what to do. I became apathetic, drained, and exhausted, physically, spiritually, and emotionally. I stopped growing closer to God. During all of this, I was rejected twice more for a venue for a spaghetti supper. I ordered T-shirts, which had an awesome reception as an idea, but when they came in, no one bought any. I held a Spirit Night at Chick-Fil-A of Chicopee, and a lot of people came, which encouraged me individually and as a whole. As though to say, "yes, it's possible, and it's real this dream." When I learned the total amount raised that night, I felt grateful, knowing well how every little bit counts, but I also felt worthless, that it may be possible to raise enough, but it would take a miracle. By the middle of November, the only options I really thought I had were to contact churches I knew in the area, and to go door-to-door selling T-shirts and asking for donations. At first, I still received very little response. Then one night I made a number of decisions, the first of which was to pull an all nighter. I had a late shift followed by an early shift, and I didn't trust myself to wake up in time. Plus, I had a lot of things I both wanted and needed to get done, so why not be productive if I'm not going to get much sleep either way? When I got home that night, I checked my pockets and realized that I must have left my phone in my friend's car. I decided to leave it be, I would see her tomorrow, and in the mean time I had my laptop for the online stuff. I gather my supplies in a pile on the bed. In the midst of it I see my Bible and my memory verse packet from my last overseas trip in 2014. I immediately challenge myself to see how many I can remember, and start going through them. After the first couple, they all came flooding back, bringing with them the ways that I applied each to my life on a day to day basis. I start praying in between each card. I lamented everything to God, how discouraged and apathetic I had become, my gratefulness for what had been done, and my fear that it wasn't what he had for me right now or ever. Suddenly, in the midst of this, two sentences entered my mind. "Trust in the Lord. How do you know the time is not now when you have given up so easily?" I finished the packet, and picked up my Bible. I read the beginning chapters of Proverbs, and the ending chapters of Revelation. By the end of that half hour in the Word, I knew what I needed to do. I contacted Amanda, the woman doing all the behind the scenes work for us, and asked what my options were if I did not make the deadline less than a week away. By the end of that week, I had new financial deadlines, and a fire I had never had in any of my previous fundraising. I was still struggling with worry, doubt, and discouragement, but I refused to give up. Things were harder, but better after that change. I started a GoFundMe page, and people gave more than $2000 in one week. In one specific door to door period, a friend and I raised almost $300. In the week following Christmas, I had started a Craigslist account and sold my furniture, and had one last spaghetti supper in the works. This one, thankfully, stuck. The response from the owner of Chick-Fil-A of Chicopee was almost instantaneous. I couldn't believe it was actually going to happen this time. There was barely more than a week to plan it out. In that time, Jackie and I walked the length of Memorial Drive (and beyond!) asking businesses for raffle donations and inviting compete strangers to supper Sunday night. An event was created on Facebook, quick updates were announced, plane tickets were purchased, and several friends and family came alongside to make sure that everything ran smoothly. Smoothly may not be the best word for the last 24 hours before the start of the dinner, but the phrase miraculous wonders works perfectly. A friend and coworker (Shannon) offered her car keys so I could run last minute errands. I was able to have some quality time with my second family, and say goodbye to one of them. There was a catering order that Saturday night that ended with a lot of extra food, which was graciously donated as chicken parm to add to the menu the next night. Jackie's pastor asked for a 1 minute video to play during announcements the next morning. I attended 2 church services Sunday morning, the first of which was LifePoints 8:30 service, where I was quickly brought to tears in worship. During the 15 minutes I could stay for College and Careers, I was able to say goodbye to my friend's, and be amazingly blessed as they prayed me out onto the mission field. The second service was at Cornerstone Church, where the pastor had Jackie and I come up and quickly recap the video. By the time we left her church that day, more than $700 had been given, and several had committed to attending that night. At the dinner, the people were amazing, assuring me that I had their prayers and support as I served. The food was just as good, and there was more than enough for everyone. The raffle went very well, and had some great prizes for a wide range of people. By the end of the night, over $1200 was raised, and I was beyond 75% funded (the minimum required to start training). As I said goodbye to friends and loved ones, I knew it was for 6 months, even though I still had almost $2000 to go before being fully funded. Thanks to some great friends, I was not allowed to clean up that night, and instead was sent home to pack. There was no question about whether or not I had started, it wasn't hard to guess. At 3 AM my friends pushed me and my gear into the car, and drove to the airport. I finished packing in the car half and hour after we parked. We went inside, checked my bag, emptied my water, and said goodbye to my beloved friends. Soon they were on their way to home and work, and I was skipping in and out of consciousness and taking pictures out of plane windows. When I landed in Fort Wayne Monday morning, I promptly checked my email. I learned that no one would be there or pick up any team members until 2 that afternoon, almost 5 hours away. I was exhausted, but alert and hungry. So, I bought a couple Pop Tarts and an orange juice and waited. By the time Emily (former Immersion team member, now Experience Mission Intern) came to pick us up, 2 of my team members had landed, and one had missed his flight. We were brought to the Summit, a retreat/training facility. Over the course of the afternoon and evening, we learned that there would be a total of 3 teams training at the same time: 3 Month Holy Land, 3 Month Caribbean (Jamaica, Haiti, and Costa Rica), and 6 Month Africa (Namibia, Lesotho, and South Africa). We spent he day laughing, talking, and asking questions. By the next morning, I felt as though I had known these people for weeks rather than hours, even though I still don't know some of their names on the other teams. We started classes at 9 AM Tuesday morning. They were all held together with all the staff present on one room. I can't imagine the amount of planning it must have taken, as each portion had so much detail and information. A major idea presented throughout the training is that our life has 4 main pictures or relationships: God, others, self, and creation (nature). Each picture is how we see each thing and the kind of relationship we have with each. As we go through life, we paint these pictures. We may start with broad generalized strokes, but as we learn and grow we progress to finer strokes and colors and textures, and the pictures each become clearer. Each day brings a new portion of this to challenge us to learn, ask questions, and make our faith, ours. I spent much of Tuesday afternoon researching what was in the sessions, because I left with a lot of questions. I first learned that I need to take better notes both in and out of class, because even though I had been paying rapt attention to the lessons, and had spent over 2 hours studying afterwards, I could hardly remember any of it the next day. Wednesday though, I feel as though I haven't stopped writing. There is so much to learn and absorb and share. As I continue this journey, and I learn more and apply what I learn, I will share more. At the moment, there is a certain overlapping of information that has yet to be processed. I'd like to thank you for bearing with me through this lengthy post, and for your support on this roller coaster getting here. I hope you will continue to learn and grow with me in this season as I share my experiences, the stories of the people I meet, and my progress in fundraising as I get closer to being 100% funded by February 8. If you have a question about me, my trip, or my team that you'd like answered, comment on this post, or email me at [email protected]. Thank you for your support, prayers, and guidance. God bless! Jeremiah 33:3 "Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and shew thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not."

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hereslookingatyoukid · 8 years ago

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End of the Year Survey - 2016

1. What did you do in 2016 that you’d never done before?

Started my first real grown-up job, got engaged to a wonderful human, brought home the cutest corgi baby in all the world, moved into a townhouse, cut down our own christmas tree, and turned twenty-six! Whew! Big year!

2. Did you keep your new year’s resolutions, and will you make more for next year?

Last year, I resolved to: Be kinder and less judgmental towards those I love (definite A for effort). Drink more water (lol) (still workin’ on this one). Write in my One Sentence Journal every night (oops, can’t find it). Dance in my kitchen (A+). Make friends with people I connect with (still searching!). Find a great job and grow confident in my work (first part, yes! second part, in progress). Feel good about how I look more and more of the time, be unafraid to be in photos, and spend less time thinking about it (forever resolution maybe?).

Of course I’m making more for next year--I can’t resist! I hope to:

+Spend more time outside +Have an unbelievably happy wedding to the love of my life and start a strong, joyful marriage +Work on saving and budgeting for the future +Snuggle my dog and loved ones more often +Feel less overwhelmed with adulthood, specifically the whole full-time job situation +Work toward a place of peace with my self-image

3. Did anyone close to you give birth? 

Weirdly not that I can think of?

4. Did anyone close to you die?

No. Thank you, thank you, thank you, Universe.

5. What countries did you visit?

I stayed home.

6. What would you like to have in 2017 that you lacked in 2016?

Oh gosh, but I’ve got so much! I suppose I’d like to have more comfort in my work environment, more strength and courage, and a (super great!) wedding.

7. What dates from 2016 will remain etched upon your memory, and why?

February 22: the first day of my job as legal counsel at Mercy.

April 16: the day Luke and I went for a hike at Squire point and came home ENGAGED! Magical!

May 15: my birthday and a day visiting Sutliff Cider Company--our future wedding venue--with both of our parents.

June 18: the day we brought our love, Sebastian, home!

October 31: halloween evening spent drinking cocktails on our tiny porch and handing out candy together.

November 8: the election with its heartbreaking results.

December 24: christmas eve at the O’Brien’s with my parents celebrating with snacks, drinks, and a heated/hilarious game of Trivial Pursuit.

8. What was your biggest achievement of the year?

Definitely getting hired as in-house legal counsel and succeeding (I hope!) in that role throughout the year. I was up against 30+ other people and had no real work experience, but I was chosen and I’ve learned a grown a ton in my job so far. I’m still working on gaining confidence and comfort in my work, but it’s been a great achievement.

9. What was your biggest failure?

Becoming overwhelmed with the giant lifestyle change that is working a full-time job and feeling like I’m barely keeping my head above water sometimes.

10. Did you suffer illness or injury?

Not really, aside from a few colds and un-fun headaches. It’s been a healthy year!

11. What was the best thing you bought?

Our kitchen table and its teal blue chairs. They make our house a home and I adore looking at them.

12. Whose behavior merited celebration?

Luke, my sweet boy. Momma, Dad, and Jake, my #1s. Hillary Clinton. Seth Meyers.

13. Whose behavior made you appalled and depressed?

Donald Trump, et al.

14. Where did most of your money go?

Purchasing a puppy. Rent. Amazon/Target. (ugh)

15. What did you get really, really, really excited about?

Getting a job!!

Being engaged!!!

Bringing home Bash!!!!

16. What songs will always remind you of 2016?

“Raise Hell”- Dorothy; “Closer” - The Chainsmokers; “Want” - Birdtalker

17. Did you make any new friendships?

I’ve gotten to know my coworkers, but otherwise it’s an emotional work in progress!

18. Did you go on vacation?

Yes! In July we took a vacation to Bemidji, Minnesota for Luke’s dad’s family reunion. We drove for 8 hours and stayed in a tiny, un-air conditioned cabin with Luke’s parents, sister and her husband, and the 4 year old twins. We fished, grilled, cuddled in the world’s most uncomfortable bed, drank unsweetened coffee, went to the family reunion, and I got to hang with my future in-laws in my pajamas. The weather was a bit rough and stormy and the drive was long, but I’ll always remember that trip fondly.

19. What do you wish you had done (more and less) of?

More optimism and exercise. Less negativity and distraction.

20. How did you spend the holidays?

Luke and I spent Thanksgiving at my parent’s home with my mom’s family. Jake and Susie were home too! And Sarah came with her brood of children! I brought cinnamon butter, green bean casserole, and oreo-cookie dough-brownies. It was actually a nice and peaceful day! We ended it playing board games and it was a blast. Then, on Friday, we did Thanksgiving at the O’Brien’s. I made corn casserole. It was filled with yummy food, a walk in the woods, and playing a game of “pie face” with the twins.

Jake came home for a few days before Christmas and it was super fun to spend time with him, but it was a bit sad to not have him home for Christmas. I’m not good with change.

For Christmas Eve we went to my grandparents for their celebration and it was much more comfortable than last year. That evening we went to the O’Brien’s with Nick and Yoriko and my parents to celebrate--very fun. Luke and I came home to snuggle our dog and exchange gifts. On Christmas morning, we went to my parents to open gifts and have brunch. It was lovely! My parents got me so many lovely things (a new laptop from where I type this!!) and we watched too many of my baby videos. We lounged around and finished the day with mom and I making homemade chicken lo mein.

21. What new food did you discover?

Home Chef subscription has brought so many! The best was probably Korean pork medallions. Like, I can cook pork! Who knew?

22. What was your favorite TV program?

Wentworth, Gilmore Girls (so late to that party), and Stranger Things!

23. What was one of your favorite experiences of the year?

I have to say the day Luke and I got engaged. It was the first truly warm day of the year and we decided to go hiking at Squire Point. Even though it was our first time there, we walked right to this gorgeous lookout point over the lake, its cliffs, and a beach. I was yammering on about “Lost” and Luke was behind me on one knee, waiting for me to stop talking so he could say “will you marry me?” So surreal. I said yes (of course) and we carved our initials into a tree next to us. The rest of the day included fishing, getting a flat tire, and surprising my parents with the news. I’m still giddy at the thought.

I’d be remiss if I didn’t also mention the day we picked Sebastian up! We drove up to the farm and the breeder greeted us with him in her arms. I immediately scooped him up and he was just so calm and so sweet and so tiny. He just hung out in my arms and chewed my hair a little. He fell asleep in my lap on the way home. I was already head over heels. I just love that little dog so much.

24. What was the best book you read?

I’m thinking What Alice Forgot by Liane Moriarty. I also really loved Lena Dunham’s Not That Kind of Girl.

25. What was your greatest musical discovery?

Kaleo. Yaaaaas.

26. What did you want and get?

A great job, a wonderful fiance, a puppy. Living the goddamn dream.

27. What did you want and not get?

I got everything I wanted and I’m not even exaggerating.

28. What was your favorite film of this year?

Is it so terrible if I say “Finding Dory”?!! It was adorable and I cried.

29. What did you do on your birthday, and how old were you?

I turned 26 this year. It was a Sunday. Luke gave me beautiful dangly earrings in the morning. Then we met our families at Sutliff Cider Company to tour as a potential wedding venue and taste some delish cider. We loved it--the orchard, the barn, the pavilion. We all went to my parents for dinner. It was a really nice birthday!

30. What one thing would have made your year immeasurably more satisfying?

A constantly clean house and a personal chef.

31. How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2016?

Knit blazers. Cropped pants. Colorful necklaces and statement earrings. Cardigans and collars. Flowing floral tops. Ankle boots. Olive green.

32. What kept you sane?

Luke. Sebastian. My family. The occasional perfect coffee. Online grocery shopping. Reddit.

33. Which celebrity/public figure did you fancy the most?

Seth Meyers. John Krasinksi (per usual). Cecile Richards.

34. What political issue stirred you the most?

The election. What a dumpster fire.

35. Who did you miss?

My brother. Seeing law school friends.

36. Who was the best new person you met?

The best person I met wasn’t a person at all... Our handsome corgi man, Bash.

37. Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2016.

Still learning this so hard...

“If you obsess over whether you are making the right decision, you are basically assuming that the universe will reward you for one thing and punish you for another. The universe has no fixed agenda. Once you make any decision, it works around that decision. There is no right or wrong, only a series of possibilities that shift with each thought, feeling, and action that you experience.— Deepak Chopra

38. Quote a song lyric that sums up your year.

"So, you’re invited to all my future plans, not that I’m planning much, but I’ve planned enough to know I hold your hand.”— Alana Henderson - Anyone Who’s Not You

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