Give Me A Touchdown

My cousin and her husband came over Sunday to watch the Jets and spend the day. My husband was feeling a little low - working all week and then getting into the car accident. He was pretty quite. He told them what had happened to him , and that he was glad he went to work anyway. I just kept remembering that he came home sober Saturday night - small wonder. We had a light lunch , then my cousin and I went to Star Bucks - she had a $15.00 gift coupon - so I got the Peppermint Hot Chocolate and she had the Cappuchino. The hot chocolate tasted like the peppermint chocolate bark that I love - it was great! She had some money left on the gift card - so she bought a small bag of Christmas Blend Coffee and then we walked around the avenue checking out the small shops.

When we got back - we found that the Jets were losing (bad) - the mug, the sweatshirt, train set, rug, scarf, hat - all for nothing. My cousin went into a cheer - Give me a J Give me a E give me a T give me a S - JETS JETS JETS -!! She got a smile from both of them but....then it was over - When are we going to eat??? An hour later we were eating Talapia with peppers, onions and olives, roasted sweet and white potatoes, pork loin and spinach - I told my mom to come up and eat with us - there was plenty - it was all ready - just had to be heated - I cook and clean up very early in the morning when I have company. My cousin bought over some Jet ice cream - I never saw that before - and a pecan pie. Thank you Lord for the friends, family and food. We had a great day - maybe the Jets will do it next week - hey - you never know.

Stop Sign Up AHead

I had a hard time waking my husband up for work Saturday. He was so late he had to take a cab into the city. When he left I had my coffee and started a grocery list - I was making chicken franchese today - I have 3 Rachael Ray cookbooks - they are very simple and once you have seen her do the recipe - its easy!.

Two hours later I got a phone call from my husbands partner, asking for him - I told him - he left two hours ago in a cab - no one had seen him. My mind went into a spin - where could he be? What happened? I had to get out, so I got dressed and took the dog for a walk and to get some air. Wondering what if this, what if that...where was he? I called his partner when I got back - no sign of him yet - he told me he was sorry he called me and not to worry. I just asked the Lord to cover him wherever he was - I tried not to over-react and act like a fool, but it was hard - it was still only 9AM - long day ahead.

Minutes later the dog went running to front door - too early for the mail - it just had to be my husband. He called up my name as he climbed the stairs - telling me the cab he was in, was hit by a car running the stop sign. He forgot his phone home and could not call or get another cab - they all wanted to go into the city - so he walked home. I asked him if he wanted to go to the hospital - he called his partner - took the car and drove into work. I talked myself into going grocery shopping - wandered around the store - picking up only the things I had written (thank goodness I made a list). Came home and staring cooking - what a mess I made - but it was done. I cleaned up and realized my knees were shaking and my head was throbbing - I needed a nap. My husband got in after 6pm - He said he was o.k., just tired so we had dinner and he went to sleep - there was the original series Star Trek marathon on - God is good.

Yes, I'm Listening

I remember making fun of my mothers' aunt - she was always going to see or calling the doctor. My mother would tell me - you think you won't get old? Have patience with her. So I would listen to her recounts of pills, check-up, conditions, real or imagined - moving the phone from ear to ear - making an occasional comment. She died about 20 years ago - and here I am - leaving work early to go check my chance of being anemic.

They just took some blood - I'll find out in a few days. Funny, but I remember when you only had to go to one doctor for what ever ailed you. Not anymore - doctor for this - doctor for that -so....I've decided to be healthy - mind over matter - let's see what happens.

I celebrated my sisters' birthday last night with my 2 cousins - we went to an Italian place called Forno something on Ditmars and 44th. We had a glass of wine , a salad , individual pizzas and shared it all . This is the last birthday for the year - we start again in May. The place was packed - only 3 waitresses - those ladies worked very hard. We finished the night off with a slice of grandmas cake - we each got a taste - it was pretty good. I really liked the ham and pineapple pizza - I never had it before.

What No Dip?

Looks like someone had a party last night. The usual empty beer cans in the sink - besides the empty assortment of potato chip bags (the $.50 ones) - empty wrappers of drakes apple cakes, oreos - a half empty glass of milk - oh and a empty pack of smokes and a new one open - the wrapper on the floor along with the salt shaker. The t.v. still going on mute.

My husband ate the meatloaf and potatos - not his peas and carrots. Now I know why the dog did not sleep with me - my husband likes to decorate the floor when he eats - so that baby girl joined the party! I cleaned up while I waited for the coffee to brew. I wake him up after I've been up a hour - had my coffee and made our lunches. He woke up early and found me on the computer - he kept telling me to tell you all the truth - I tried explaining that I'm writing about my world - he is the back drop - you know, like scenery - he did not like that - he thought he was the star. I told him my daughter could set him up with his very own blog , so he can tell his side - maybe one day - right now he is too tired, too busy. I like the man I talk to in the morning, he makes me smile - it's the night time husband I have a problem understanding.

Wish I Had Your Hair

I miss not walking to work in the morning. But I really can't do it when I do the early shift. I promised myself I would walk during lunch - but then I get to talking and the hour just zips by. So I ate 3 slices of the grandmas pizza we ordered together and yapped away. I'm not too happy with my hair these days. It's curly and this weather is not helping any. I try using the hot comb at work but it just keeps curling up - all my life people telling me how lucky I am to have curly hair-blah, blah, blah.

Growing up during the California Girl time was torture!! Everyone walking around with long, flowing straight hair - and I had the poodle look - never a good look for a 14 year old. When I was having my daughter I prayed for her to have straight hair - she's got lovely hair - thank God. I could not eat dinner when I got home - too much pizza. My mom left for Bingo and I just relaxed and watch some Criminal Intent Law and Order. My husband got in around 6:30pm - very good for a payday.

Dial a Mattress

I took off yesterday and spent the day with my daughter and granddaughter. I still have 9 more vacations days to take - I'm thinking of taking a week off in December. We tried to see some blinds at Blinds To Go. - We had to sign in and wait - there was only 1 salesperson and a women stapling papers behind the reception/checkout area. The baby was not into waiting around in her stroller. So after 15 minutes we left - they need a new system or more salespersons or something.

After we had a little lunch, I went home - my mother wanted me to order her a new mattress. When I got home, I called 1-800-mattres and ordered her a full size middle firm,with a pillow top mattress. They said they would delivery between 6 and 10pm. My mom was not too happy. The door bell rings when it feels like it, so she had to stay in the living room to see the truck when it got here. At 8:30 she called for me - they were here - in about 10 minutes - they took the old mattress and brought in the new one. My mother was very happy and so was I. That night my husband asked why I went to work so early - do I have a boyfriend? Like I have the energy for a boyfriend.

If It Crawls Like A Snake

My husband left for work early yesterday - he had said they were working 10 hours - 6 days starting soon - so I figured they were starting. I had to be in early too, the morning woman was off for the week. So I left for work about 45 minutes after my husband. When I got to the train stationI noticed a man climbing the stairs in front of me looking alot like my husband. So I called his name - he turned around - said I scared him to death - I asked him where has he been?? The bank......I know the bank is a station away and he could have caught the train there......then I rememebred "Ask me no questions...I'll tell you no lies". I just walked onto the train, not looking back, trying not to look at anyone on the train. Let go and let God. I don't get it... but I know the One who does get it and maybe it's better that way. Thankfully, the day at work was busy and we had a couple of laughs....and I got to leave early....I'll be going home early all week.

Grandmothers - The More The Merrier

We had to be at the Baby Shower by 12 Noon.... My mother and I picked up my girlfriend and then we went for my daughter. The shower was at Mim's in Sysosset, about an hour away...it was a very nice place....they served a brunch....had a mimosa (or 2) and went for the french toast, bacon and home fries - twice. I had a good time..talking with friends and kissing and waving to all. Baby showers are not the most exciting ...tho, I like the clothes...so small...so cute....so lovable....and those bibs..adorable! We are a very noisey group - we had to be told to settle down at least once. Careful...calling the shower police...it started to rain while we had the coffee and cake - they also had a big bowl of mixed, fresh, cut-up fruit. So we said our goodbyes....got our favor and chocolate lollipop...my daughter drove us home - thank goodness..I don't like driving in the rain. Back home - safe and sound. My husbands' friend had come over to watch Jets' game with him - I just missed him. It's going to be a great new year with all the new babies on their way - because, with every new baby, a new grandma is born - I'm going to have company! Ahhh...sweet Jesus.

An Aunt At Last

My husband had to work o.t. today...So my niece and I spent a nice day together. We took my mom to Bingo and then went over to Ditmars Blvd (shopping strip). I picked up some things from the drug store and we went to the hair salon. I got my hair cut and blown out. After that we went over to Mandees and another small boutique then we stopped and got a slice of pizza and a coke.

She really is so beautiful and almost grown up. I can't believe it..I thought I would never be an aunt...my sister did not have her until she was 40 years old.....I was so happy the day my niece was born. A daughter, a niece and a granddaughter....God is good.

Later that night my husband and I met another couple at a Italian place called Manetta's in L.I.C. The 3 of them got the filet mignon and I got the mahi mahi. They have known my husband since childhood and they love him, so the night was very good and a lot of fun. I had a cosmo and ended the night with a great flourless chocolate torte and raspberry sorbet for dessert and tea. Everybody liked my hair.

But I'm 29...

Yesterday was my daughter's birthday - she is 29...could it be?? I spent the day with her and my granddaughter. We went to Costco and I bought an i-pod..she said it was a nice one.

I had no idea they cost so much- anyway after lunch on the way home we were flagged by some young cops. They were checking everyones' car inspection - which I found out that my daughter's expired 2 weeks ago. Her father in law is a retired dectective from the Bronx and the young cop saw his medal in the window and asked her about it - he made her promise to get the car inspected right away...and she did.

While the car was being inspected we went over to Carvel and had some ice cream...it was a really lovely afternoon. When we got to her house, she downloaded some music and 2 books into my new i-pod...I can't wait to use it. Later that night around 7:30 my neice came by to sleep over. We watched SpongeBob Square Pants marathon..the movie was on..i got to love this character from watching him with her while she was growing up - she's 13 now. Boy, the years are just zooming by...

Let Me Guess..Is He ...or Isn't He..?

After all this time, I still don't know if my husband is drunk in the morning. I wake him for work thinking he will be sober....but sometimes, I just don't know. Like yesterday, he sounded drunk, not so much his voice but his conversation... it wasn't making sense. Rambling on about people wearing i-pods on the train and on the street in the city...I guess they are not giving him enough attention.

It's funny because I want to buy a i-pod so I won't have to be subjected to his ranting and raving...better hold off a while. I think I'll ask for it in my Kris Kringle at work....oh what a surprise!!!! At work we had danish, chocolate cake and bagels . The people that had won the world series chipped in some money and we treated the office....I don't eat like that at home...but I enjoy it at work. I got home and could not eat another thing.

My husband was not home and he did not get home til 8PM. ..No time wasted guessing if he was drunk. Thank you Lord for not giving us more than we can handle.

Just Call Me Sleepy

I found my husband work bag and boom box in the hall in the morning- means only one thing - he got laid off. So I just left for work and let him sleep. At work I found out the problem was with the bond company - so they had to let 10 men go. Later that day, things were settled and they called my husband back for tomorrow. I called the doctor and had some good news - the tests came back good - my morning walk is working (and the oatmeal doesn't hurt either). Only thing = I am borderline anemic - so I go see another doctor next week - what a drag it is getting old....

There was a meeting last night ..lots of people at work...lots of people running for just a few positions. I got home and my mom told me my husband left for this meeting already - oh boy - talked to my daughter a while and got ready for bed. I wonder if being anemic is making sleep so many hours?? I just thought I was depressed.

Makes You Wonder

I felt better yesterday. I think my head cold is on its way out. We have a big mailing at work - being an election year - there are alot of candidates for different positions bringing envelopes to be addressed. Our membership is 7500 - we all take turns working the address machine. This brings out the best in some of us = the worst in others. I'm doing more work than you - she just doesn't want to help = he thinks he is the boss etc. etc.... Everyday it seems someone is bothered by someone or something - just like at home.

We will be doing this for at least another 2 weeks. Not for charity either - that's what I don't understand. We are doing this extra work during work hours, getting paid and people still find something to complain about! But I leave these people at 4:30 - so they really don';t bother me - and the money will come in handy for Christmas. They're are funny - amusing - I'm going to write a book about them someday. My husband found his way home after 8pm - not a good thing.

The Doctor Will See You (Finally)

Mondays sure do come around fast around here. I don't like getting dressed in the winter time- heavy colors - heavy pieces - weigh me down. I found that I don't need so much clothing becasue I work up a small sweat when I walk in the morning. I had a doctors appointment at 3:30 so I left work at 2:45 - I finally got to see the doctor at 5:15 - the only good thing about that was I got to see Kristy Ally in a bikini on Oprah!!! - She looked great! - I just kept smiling through the whole interview. I found out Kristy is a year older and Oprah is a year younger than me. Not too bad....people are looking better longer ...that's nice.

Anyway the doctor took some blood , going to run some tests - lungs good, heart sounds good....my pressure was 120/90 he said the bottom was too high. So now I have to take pills - the lowest dose and we'll see what happens. I informed him I'm a new grandmom so what ever it takes, I'm sticking around for the fun!! When I got home it was after 6pm My mom was getting ready for Bingo and I found out my husband wasn't home yet - oh boy.. So I brought up his dinner, walked the dog and found my way to basement to watch some Law and Order- Criminal Intent. Can't wait to see that baby girl.

Sunday Drive

Sunday has come to represent football in this house. So, out came the Jets rug, the jets scarf, train set - getting ready. I just recently found out that you can get beer earlier on Sundays - not a good thing, if you ask me.

My mother belongs to a social club and on Sundays they are open to members and family. My husband found out they serve beer as early as 10am. So off he goes - taking the dog out - and he does not get home until 1pm - kickoff time. This gives me enough time to get the house in order and settle downstairs before he gets back. Each time he leaves (half time or before a new game) he comes back with just a few beers (his words) - no food - just beer.

When we were small - after we had a family lunch, Sunday meant a car ride with my parents to anywhere and everywhere - we'd stop and walk around - get something to eat. My sister and I would make up a game to play to pass time in car or just listen to the car radio - WABC - asking my dad to please make the sound higher. It was a nice time - when I remember those times - they comfort me. Thank you Lord for my gentle childhood.

Look who's 30!

My husband took my mom to her 9am eye doctor appointment. We had to get ready early because my daughter was giving her husband a surprise 30th Birthday Family Lunch at an Italian Cafe. It started at 11:45 - Had to pick up the balloons first - only I did not place an order - so I had to wait til someone had time to help me. My husband came into the store - he was wondering what the hold up was - he was double parked on Steinway - that is never good. Finally we are on our way - running late - we should have been there already. Everyone was enjoying the salad when we got there - it was good to see everyone.

My son-in-law was really surprized!! Settlling down, we enjoyed the rest of the afternoon. The food was delicious and the cake was a whipped cream napoleon - wow!! My daughter also planned a night surprise birthday party for their close friends at a Tavern at 8pm. So we went home and I laid down for a while - got up and went to babysit my granddaughter. What a day - she went to sleep right away and so did I. They finally came in after 12 and I drove home - fell into bed - glad to be home.

Have A Good Weekend

Thank God it's Friday... I made it. It's starting to feel like winter now -but I did enjoy the cooler temp when I walked in the morning. It was just another day at work -we exchanged our plans for the weekend - seems there is always something to do or somplace to be. I just was so happy to get home and just relax. Got into my PJ's ordered a sicilian pie (half olives for my husband), looked through the mail and watched What Not To Wear - My mom went off to her poker game - my husband went to the corner place he visits - took the dog. I knew it would not last - so I enjoyed the peace while I could.

Let's Pretend

I've been walking to work in the morning for what??!! As soon as I finish my breakfast I go right to the food counter and get 2 oatmeat cookies - left from the blood drive - there are about 50 two cookie packets left over. I enjoy them with my green tea.

Around 10 am I go back to the counter and dig out a snicker fun bar - everyone brought in their left over Halloween candy. Then right after lunch - it's back to the counter for a peppermint patty. What's the use? What makes me feel worse is that my friend has a will of iron. She looks at me and laughs - telling me that looks good - but she does not fall into temptation. How does she do that? She is so dedicated to her daily diet - salad one day, turkey and cheese on a small pita the next - then some home made chicken salad that is minced so well - it looks like tuna. She amazes me.

I need a bag of vinegar and salt potato chips with my sandwich. But I do walk a hour each morning -Hah!! When I got home, things were pretty quite. So after dinner I gathered all the catalogs I've gotten in the week and looked at them one at a time. I've loved doing that since I was a little girl - my sister and I would play pretend for hours with The Big Aldens Catalog Book, circling the things we would get and which model we were. It was fun growing up with her. God is good.

A Laugh a Day Does A Body Good

The good thing about going to work, is that I get a chance to talk to other people. I get to share my ideas, and I get to hear some other points of view -and I mostly get to hear all about shows I don't get to see. I have worked with these people a long time and we are very relaxed around each other. The big talk around the office is Dancing With The Stars - I get an update all the time. You would think that I watched the very first Survivor - my friend was obsessed with the show - I never even saw one show - but I know all about it- I would even ask questions!!!

I relieve the receptionist at lunch time once in a while and she has a tiny t.v. on her desk. So I get to watch a soap opera between phone calls - I think it is All My Children - The one with Erica. The very best thing about going out to work is I get to laugh - believe me - people are funny - if it's not the people at work its the people on the phone.

When I got home, my husband told me that they were taking too much taxes from his pay- not a happy man. So I promised to fax over his stub with a request for them to change it - hopefully his next check will be correct. All quite on the home front, so I got to bed. Good night Lord.

Love a Parade

I spent yesterday with my mom, daughter and granddaughter. It was Halloween!! We went to the mall - I got some Christmas gift cards for my husbands' nephews and nieces - he has 6 -(3 boys and 3 girls). My daughter talked me into OLD NAVY and FOREVER 21 - so that was done! Some of the clerks were dressed up for the holiday - we saw witches, vampires, nurses and a geisha - FUN .

We had lunch at Bens' - our waitress was a clown - after that my mom bought a jacket from Burlingtons'. It was a really lovely day - it will be a great night for trick or treating. My mom and I got back home just in time for the first goblins at the door. They visited in groups - many of them with their parents (they dressed up too). My dog wasn't happy - she doesn't understand Halloween (or July 4th) - barking away! Kids stopped coming by around 6:30pm. We still had some candy left - I'll take that to work tomorrow. My husband was pretty quite - I wish he would stop smoking - he has a horrible cough - he gets follow up mail and goes for his annual check-up from the 9/11 clean up center - He'll go again in February - I'm sure he is o.k.

A long time ago, I heard that the Lord watches over babies and drunks (I never knew what that meant - maybe because He see them as helpless?) We watched the Village Halloweeen Parade on channel 1 - it was great. I told my husband we should try to get down there one of these years'. Looked like fun.