Over the years, I have come to love the feeling when my mind meets the page as I write. Whether in gratitude or despair, it never fails that I feel better when I can write my thoughts. I have said for quite some time that I have wanted to write a book. There is something about the idea that my own words may circulate around the world and touch, even one soul.
No, it wouldn't be to boast or brag (for my story is far from something to be proud of at times). It wouldn't be to win an award or gain publicity (for sometimes the thought of being "known" is fearful in my heart). It is, however, for the simple joy of taking the memories that overflow my mind and putting them out there (maybe for closure in some cases). Maybe just one person will hear what I have to say and think, "I know exactly what you mean." It would be worth the pain to relive some of the heartache I have felt to know that someone may stop going down the path they have chosen at that time.
Therefore, I am playing with the idea of starting my book. Something I have toyed with for years (and started a few times prior). A book that no one may see worth reading, but I definitely feel it is worth telling.
Wednesday, May 29, 2013
Monday, May 20, 2013
Day 713
Every year my husband and I try to get away for a vacation-just the two of us. This year we struggled with whether or not we should go. With a surgery on the books coming up, and additional expenses coming out of our paychecks, we seriously considered staying at home and putting off our trip. Unfortunately, if my vacation time was not used prior to my surgery I would have had to use my time when I was off. This would mean I would miss out on the opportunity to get away at all this year.
With our health and attitudes going downhill, we made the last minute decision to go.
But where?
That seemed to be the infamous question. Before the extra medical expenses, we shot around the idea of going to Napa Valley to go horseback riding in the countryside. Stay in room with a view and a chance to see all nature had to offer (a horseback ride included). Unfortunately, the trip was too long of a drive and flying was out of the question.
We talked about going back to Florida. Disney World? A chance to be a kid before we have kids; or, maybe down to the Florida Keys this time. Again, the driving distance seemed too much to tackle and we quickly tossed out that idea. Although, the beach seemed like the logical place to go for a vacation.
Colorado? Growing up, my family would take us kids on similar vacations across the southwest. Having been to Pikes Peak before, I thought it might be a nice trip to go up to the mountains and spend some time in a pretty lodge. Maybe we could enjoy a ski trip and cozy fireplace to warm up to in the evenings.
Chicago? What is there to do in Chicago besides go to a ballgame (not playing at the time), or chow down on bagels and pizza?
Georgia? I love Georgia peaches. The hillside in that area is breathtaking, and we considered making a trip through Greensboro, GA-just for the food. I researched places on the coastline and debated going to Savannah after remembering how beautiful my daddy described it after going on a business trip when I was younger. We could stay in Savannah one night, go to a honey bee company and tour the process/taste something sweet, have a night in town, and then head out to the beach for a getaway.
"You do realize that isn't a safe place to stay, don't you?"
My daddy quickly put that idea to rest when I let him know our plans. Therefore, I had my mind set up on Amelia Island. Aside from the fact that I just adore the name Amelia for a little girl, it was an exclusive section off the East coast-known for the wild horses that come through the sandy beaches. Known for its quaint bed and breakfasts, we would dine on the beach between candlelight and stay in private room overlooking the ocean in a gorgeous bed and breakfast. I could not wait!
Just kidding.
With the trip totaling over a 20 hour drive, we would have zero time to spend there. Not to mention the costs of some of these B&Bs were outrageous!
So, I planned the most romantic getaway to Pine Mountain, GA. We could sightsee and dine in mom and pop shops in the middle of town. Staying in a luxury hotel nestled amidst a 13,000 acre garden and nature preserve, we could take in the beauty of Callaway Gardens and explore nature at its finest. Known for its beautiful gardens, hiking scenes, and animal adventure-it was perfect. I found hotels online and researched locations of each of the attractions in the area. We could even go horseback riding!
Sunday morning, we sat listened to the week's announcements as the pastor shared they were cancelling evening services due to the weather.
Wait, weather?
I didn't even think to look at the weather! So, I pulled up the national map on my phone as I watched the storms build throughout Oklahoma, Georgia, and Colorado. Then, down near the gulf was a perfectly sunny strip of shoreline.
Florida it is!
Already having packed outdoorsy weather, we had to rethink our belongings since we were now looking at three days on the beach. Tennis shoes were exchanged for flips. I tossed in a few towels and threw on a pair of sunglasses as I grabbed my floppy hat and camera.
*Enter loud obnoxiously scary noise here.
Suddenly, the tornado sirens rang as we were forced to put our plans on hold. We watched as the swirl grew in the sky-touching down just miles away from family north of our home. We waiting impatiently in the hallway with the pups and a mattress pulled off the master bed. Finally, it passed and we were able to drive to take the granddogs to their Mimi and Papaw's.
We weren't on the road until approximately 8pm that evening. Knowing it was a 17hour drive there, we trekked across town as the sun set beside us. The night was long, but the drive was longer. As we made our way from state-to-state, we pushed through the darkness until the sun came out. Then, we continued to our final destination-relaxation.
With our health and attitudes going downhill, we made the last minute decision to go.
But where?
That seemed to be the infamous question. Before the extra medical expenses, we shot around the idea of going to Napa Valley to go horseback riding in the countryside. Stay in room with a view and a chance to see all nature had to offer (a horseback ride included). Unfortunately, the trip was too long of a drive and flying was out of the question.
We talked about going back to Florida. Disney World? A chance to be a kid before we have kids; or, maybe down to the Florida Keys this time. Again, the driving distance seemed too much to tackle and we quickly tossed out that idea. Although, the beach seemed like the logical place to go for a vacation.
Colorado? Growing up, my family would take us kids on similar vacations across the southwest. Having been to Pikes Peak before, I thought it might be a nice trip to go up to the mountains and spend some time in a pretty lodge. Maybe we could enjoy a ski trip and cozy fireplace to warm up to in the evenings.
Chicago? What is there to do in Chicago besides go to a ballgame (not playing at the time), or chow down on bagels and pizza?
Georgia? I love Georgia peaches. The hillside in that area is breathtaking, and we considered making a trip through Greensboro, GA-just for the food. I researched places on the coastline and debated going to Savannah after remembering how beautiful my daddy described it after going on a business trip when I was younger. We could stay in Savannah one night, go to a honey bee company and tour the process/taste something sweet, have a night in town, and then head out to the beach for a getaway.
"You do realize that isn't a safe place to stay, don't you?"
My daddy quickly put that idea to rest when I let him know our plans. Therefore, I had my mind set up on Amelia Island. Aside from the fact that I just adore the name Amelia for a little girl, it was an exclusive section off the East coast-known for the wild horses that come through the sandy beaches. Known for its quaint bed and breakfasts, we would dine on the beach between candlelight and stay in private room overlooking the ocean in a gorgeous bed and breakfast. I could not wait!
Just kidding.
With the trip totaling over a 20 hour drive, we would have zero time to spend there. Not to mention the costs of some of these B&Bs were outrageous!
So, I planned the most romantic getaway to Pine Mountain, GA. We could sightsee and dine in mom and pop shops in the middle of town. Staying in a luxury hotel nestled amidst a 13,000 acre garden and nature preserve, we could take in the beauty of Callaway Gardens and explore nature at its finest. Known for its beautiful gardens, hiking scenes, and animal adventure-it was perfect. I found hotels online and researched locations of each of the attractions in the area. We could even go horseback riding!
Sunday morning, we sat listened to the week's announcements as the pastor shared they were cancelling evening services due to the weather.
Wait, weather?
I didn't even think to look at the weather! So, I pulled up the national map on my phone as I watched the storms build throughout Oklahoma, Georgia, and Colorado. Then, down near the gulf was a perfectly sunny strip of shoreline.
Florida it is!
Already having packed outdoorsy weather, we had to rethink our belongings since we were now looking at three days on the beach. Tennis shoes were exchanged for flips. I tossed in a few towels and threw on a pair of sunglasses as I grabbed my floppy hat and camera.
*Enter loud obnoxiously scary noise here.
Suddenly, the tornado sirens rang as we were forced to put our plans on hold. We watched as the swirl grew in the sky-touching down just miles away from family north of our home. We waiting impatiently in the hallway with the pups and a mattress pulled off the master bed. Finally, it passed and we were able to drive to take the granddogs to their Mimi and Papaw's.
We weren't on the road until approximately 8pm that evening. Knowing it was a 17hour drive there, we trekked across town as the sun set beside us. The night was long, but the drive was longer. As we made our way from state-to-state, we pushed through the darkness until the sun came out. Then, we continued to our final destination-relaxation.
Saturday, May 4, 2013
Vast
...continued.
A young lady let us know that our table was ready as she walked us to our seats. After a few minutes of taking in the atmosphere, our waiter greeted us with the drink specials. We had a moment to browse the menu as we selected which entrees we would dare to try.
Hubby ordered the filet mignon (a sweet backup in case mine wasn't to my liking) while I had the rack of lamb. The chef brought us out a taste of salmon mousse (too bad I found out approximately two years ago that I am highly allergic to seafood). I politely pushed mine aside as the waiter gave us each two delicious dinner rolls-1)A sun-dried tomato puff and 2)a delicious jalapeno with creamy boursin filling. Dinner arrived in a reasonable amount of time as we talked about our week.
My. Food. Was. Delicious.
The lamb was so tender that it fell apart with a fork. The juices were flavorful while the carrots and potatoes were just right. Hubby's steak was cooked perfectly while the garlic and butter perfectly melted into the meat.
If anyone knows me, they know that I am certainly a meat and potatoes kind of girl. That being said, I was leaning towards eating another helping before reaching for dessert; however, we ordered the waiter's recommendation for something sweet with a cup of coffee.
After filling ourselves to the brim, we finally decided to throw in the towel. We politely asked if there was a quiet place we could sit and admire the view as we were asked to take a seat on the bench. Being misunderstood, the manager came up to us and took us for a tour on the north side of the tower-asking what type of event we were looking to hold there. Embarrassed, we quickly let them know it was just for future endeavors and he slipped us his business card.
We walked to the elevator that seemed to go even faster while using gravity in its favor. I snapped a couple last photos as we made our way back to the pickup truck. The air was cool, but my heart was warm as I reached for the hand of my husband. I couldn't help but be overwhelmed by the amount of love I have been blessed with.
A young lady let us know that our table was ready as she walked us to our seats. After a few minutes of taking in the atmosphere, our waiter greeted us with the drink specials. We had a moment to browse the menu as we selected which entrees we would dare to try.
Hubby ordered the filet mignon (a sweet backup in case mine wasn't to my liking) while I had the rack of lamb. The chef brought us out a taste of salmon mousse (too bad I found out approximately two years ago that I am highly allergic to seafood). I politely pushed mine aside as the waiter gave us each two delicious dinner rolls-1)A sun-dried tomato puff and 2)a delicious jalapeno with creamy boursin filling. Dinner arrived in a reasonable amount of time as we talked about our week.
My. Food. Was. Delicious.
The lamb was so tender that it fell apart with a fork. The juices were flavorful while the carrots and potatoes were just right. Hubby's steak was cooked perfectly while the garlic and butter perfectly melted into the meat.
If anyone knows me, they know that I am certainly a meat and potatoes kind of girl. That being said, I was leaning towards eating another helping before reaching for dessert; however, we ordered the waiter's recommendation for something sweet with a cup of coffee.
After filling ourselves to the brim, we finally decided to throw in the towel. We politely asked if there was a quiet place we could sit and admire the view as we were asked to take a seat on the bench. Being misunderstood, the manager came up to us and took us for a tour on the north side of the tower-asking what type of event we were looking to hold there. Embarrassed, we quickly let them know it was just for future endeavors and he slipped us his business card.
We walked to the elevator that seemed to go even faster while using gravity in its favor. I snapped a couple last photos as we made our way back to the pickup truck. The air was cool, but my heart was warm as I reached for the hand of my husband. I couldn't help but be overwhelmed by the amount of love I have been blessed with.
Friday, May 3, 2013
Vast, Beyond all Measure
It's Friday, it's Friday,
My favorite day of the working week!
Partially because I only work a short day on Friday, partially because I spend the afternoon with my grandparents, and partially because it is the beginning of a great break from the routine-I love Fridays.
I started the day off right with Chick-fil-a chicken and biscuits (courtesy my amazing employer) and a chance to brag on my co-workers in our monthly meeting. After the usual what-nots around the office, I went back to my desk to play catch up (and fix the catch-all that my desk had become over the busy week). As a case manager, the appropriate caseload for an individual would be anywhere between 15-25 clients. On the flipside, my caseload has officially reached 65+. I often thank God for blessing me with a memory to keep track of their names, family histories, children's names, and important details to connect on their level. That same memory, however, can be seen as a blessing and a curse. I don't seem to forget anything.
I often find it difficult to separate work from my personal life. I mean, who wouldn't in my shoes? I go home and wonder if some of my couples will have a roof over their heads that evening, if they had running water or went without food again, if their children are being watched and taken care of, if their pasts are keeping them awake, and whether they are reliving the cycle of violence they grew up in. Therefore, Friday is my official cue that I don't have to worry about these things until the next week. I have provided resources and assistance alongside the education of the curriculum to keep these couples safe-if only for a weekend.
So, I wrapped up my day that morning and headed out for a few days with the fam. First stop, Gramma and Pawpaw's.
I may or may not be a little bitspoiled loved. After picking up some meat to take to the parents for a delicious cookout the Sunday prior, I mentioned to my grandparents that we needed to buy some ribs to throw on the grill next time. Low and behold, I was greeted with a hug and a kiss from each of them, and a big plate of yummy barbecued ribs! Homemade potato salad and strawberries n' cream were the perfect sides for a filling lunch. We talked about the usual things we do every week and laughed our cares away.
Driving into the area, I spotted a garage sale sign around the corner from their house (one of my Gramma's favorite hobbies). We hopped in the van and ran around the nearby neighborhoods and spent our afternoon enjoying the sunshine.
On my way home, I called my sweet hubby to see if he had left the dungeon (AKA his job). I asked what the plans were for the evening and he said we were going to go out to eat.
"With the family?" I asked.
"No," he said, "we have reservations at 8:30pm.
He continued from there to let me know that we had reservations at Vast, a fancy restaurant at the top of the tallest building from here to the Mississippi (maybe). I was so shocked I couldn't help but argue with him. Sure enough, he got home and began to ask if I was going to get ready to go. I put on a pretty new dress and my bubblegum pink heels for a night on the town.
The sunset was beautiful, and I couldn't wait to get there. We were fortunate enough to find a parking place right up front (and it was FREE). The building seemed to reach into the sky and glistened in the light.
As we rounded the corner in the atrium, we spotted the sign to the restaurant. There was a hostess sitting outside the door and she asked our name. After hubby confirmed the reservations, she opened a large glass door and directed us to the elevators.
49th floor.
I do believe it took less time to get up to the 49th floor than it does to get to the second at my work. My ears poppedthree four times before we reached the top. My stomach turned a flip as I took one step off the elevator and had to reach for my husband. I literally felt like I stepped into a different state. We were directed to a long bench while we waited to be seated. The entire wait staff was dressed to a T as they made their way around the room effortlessly. Everyone walked at a steady pace-no rushing.
To be continued...
My favorite day of the working week!
Partially because I only work a short day on Friday, partially because I spend the afternoon with my grandparents, and partially because it is the beginning of a great break from the routine-I love Fridays.
I started the day off right with Chick-fil-a chicken and biscuits (courtesy my amazing employer) and a chance to brag on my co-workers in our monthly meeting. After the usual what-nots around the office, I went back to my desk to play catch up (and fix the catch-all that my desk had become over the busy week). As a case manager, the appropriate caseload for an individual would be anywhere between 15-25 clients. On the flipside, my caseload has officially reached 65+. I often thank God for blessing me with a memory to keep track of their names, family histories, children's names, and important details to connect on their level. That same memory, however, can be seen as a blessing and a curse. I don't seem to forget anything.
I often find it difficult to separate work from my personal life. I mean, who wouldn't in my shoes? I go home and wonder if some of my couples will have a roof over their heads that evening, if they had running water or went without food again, if their children are being watched and taken care of, if their pasts are keeping them awake, and whether they are reliving the cycle of violence they grew up in. Therefore, Friday is my official cue that I don't have to worry about these things until the next week. I have provided resources and assistance alongside the education of the curriculum to keep these couples safe-if only for a weekend.
So, I wrapped up my day that morning and headed out for a few days with the fam. First stop, Gramma and Pawpaw's.
I may or may not be a little bit
Driving into the area, I spotted a garage sale sign around the corner from their house (one of my Gramma's favorite hobbies). We hopped in the van and ran around the nearby neighborhoods and spent our afternoon enjoying the sunshine.
On my way home, I called my sweet hubby to see if he had left the dungeon (AKA his job). I asked what the plans were for the evening and he said we were going to go out to eat.
"With the family?" I asked.
"No," he said, "we have reservations at 8:30pm.
He continued from there to let me know that we had reservations at Vast, a fancy restaurant at the top of the tallest building from here to the Mississippi (maybe). I was so shocked I couldn't help but argue with him. Sure enough, he got home and began to ask if I was going to get ready to go. I put on a pretty new dress and my bubblegum pink heels for a night on the town.
The sunset was beautiful, and I couldn't wait to get there. We were fortunate enough to find a parking place right up front (and it was FREE). The building seemed to reach into the sky and glistened in the light.
 |
| All dolled up for dinner. |
 |
| My handsome hubby in his trendy attire. |
As we rounded the corner in the atrium, we spotted the sign to the restaurant. There was a hostess sitting outside the door and she asked our name. After hubby confirmed the reservations, she opened a large glass door and directed us to the elevators.
49th floor.
I do believe it took less time to get up to the 49th floor than it does to get to the second at my work. My ears popped
To be continued...
Thursday, May 2, 2013
I've Got Sunshine.
It doesn't seem too much to ask to have expectations for your birthday. I suppose I just thought it would be nice if the entire world (including the sunshine) would want to wake up that morning and celebrate...well...me. You can imagine my disappointment when I looked at the weather the day before my birthday and saw that a record low would be making its way into Oklahoma on the following day.
You can imagine my reaction when I rounded the corner after venting to my coworkers, only to find a beautiful banner with the words, "I've got sunshine on my birthday". Encircling my entire desk, picture after picture of sunshine surrounded me. All I could do was shed a happy tear and hug the necks of those I share 8 or more hours of my day with.
The following morning I went to bed only to wake up to my husbands cheerful voice singing happy birthday and beautiful clothes hanging in front of me-a peach floral dress and a sheer top (with appropriate attire to wear beneath them).
Once at work, I was greeted with a beautiful card and homemade strawberry jam (my favorite).
I rushed off that morning to attend my first meeting and wrapped it up with a sweet birthday wish and striped pink bag. Inside was a package of my favorite ink pens and bright-yellow wallet.
Minutes later, my coworkers called me into the supervisor's office where each of my friends stood around delicious angel-food cakes, a handmade banner with personal notes, and a sweet card each of them signed. As I stood there, they asked me to open the card-only to find an additional note sharing how much they cared about me. Then, paperclipped behind the note was...
...$103.00.
I. was. speechless.
Tears flooded my face as I thought of each of the sacrifices my coworkers must have made to contribute to making my birthday special. Money is tight, and we certainly don't do what we do for the cash.
"Thank you," was all I could say as the tears continued to stream down my cheeks.
I spent my lunch hour trying to do justice for the gift I had received-making thank you emails to each of my coworkers. Then, I went about my day.
That night was equally as special as I wrapped up at my desk and found a single yellow rose and a sticky note from a dear friend. "Happy Birthday. Thought your day deserved some bright and cheery! Love, Ginger".
Wow.
I walked in to teach my class only to be greeted with two of the sweetest people I have the pleasure of serving. In their hands was a large white bag as they shared they had brought me some delicious goodies to celebrate my big day, and boy were they delicious!
I shared the yummy brownies and cookies that the dad had brought from his work at the Devon towers downtown (he is such a talented chef). Then, we wrapped up class that evening with everyone singing in chorus that birthday song!
I couldn't wait to get home to my hubby and share my day with him. That night I ended it the same day it began-with a hug and a kiss from the man of my dreams.
Sunshine-filled days are the best.
You can imagine my reaction when I rounded the corner after venting to my coworkers, only to find a beautiful banner with the words, "I've got sunshine on my birthday". Encircling my entire desk, picture after picture of sunshine surrounded me. All I could do was shed a happy tear and hug the necks of those I share 8 or more hours of my day with.
The following morning I went to bed only to wake up to my husbands cheerful voice singing happy birthday and beautiful clothes hanging in front of me-a peach floral dress and a sheer top (with appropriate attire to wear beneath them).
Once at work, I was greeted with a beautiful card and homemade strawberry jam (my favorite). 
I rushed off that morning to attend my first meeting and wrapped it up with a sweet birthday wish and striped pink bag. Inside was a package of my favorite ink pens and bright-yellow wallet. 
Minutes later, my coworkers called me into the supervisor's office where each of my friends stood around delicious angel-food cakes, a handmade banner with personal notes, and a sweet card each of them signed. As I stood there, they asked me to open the card-only to find an additional note sharing how much they cared about me. Then, paperclipped behind the note was......$103.00.
I. was. speechless.
Tears flooded my face as I thought of each of the sacrifices my coworkers must have made to contribute to making my birthday special. Money is tight, and we certainly don't do what we do for the cash.
"Thank you," was all I could say as the tears continued to stream down my cheeks.
I spent my lunch hour trying to do justice for the gift I had received-making thank you emails to each of my coworkers. Then, I went about my day.
That night was equally as special as I wrapped up at my desk and found a single yellow rose and a sticky note from a dear friend. "Happy Birthday. Thought your day deserved some bright and cheery! Love, Ginger".
Wow.
I walked in to teach my class only to be greeted with two of the sweetest people I have the pleasure of serving. In their hands was a large white bag as they shared they had brought me some delicious goodies to celebrate my big day, and boy were they delicious!
I shared the yummy brownies and cookies that the dad had brought from his work at the Devon towers downtown (he is such a talented chef). Then, we wrapped up class that evening with everyone singing in chorus that birthday song!
I couldn't wait to get home to my hubby and share my day with him. That night I ended it the same day it began-with a hug and a kiss from the man of my dreams.
Sunshine-filled days are the best.