Nelson Antonio Rivera has arrived

Oh I just got some excellent news. My sister was trying to send me a multimedia text message but it didn't work but then sent a text message that Baby Nelly arrived today. I don't know if that counts as a New Years Eve Baby or not but its wonderful news.

I called Mom with the news but she was out. I had called her after my little jaunt to the post office and liquor shop for the wine. I wanted to let her know the thank you notes were done. Well actually most of them were done. I have the kids to thank for my gifts.

Its been a couple of days

Well you can tell I have been busy. I haven't really written much (Preston misses my lap) did get on line to do some surfing but mostly been working and watching TV. The pups have been going outside and doing their "duty" with occasional "accident". One is upstairs on the pillow (after the "accident") the other might be upstairs now. WE have been watching the Burn Notice Marathon today. The Gerbils that look like mice are fine.

Work was good despite the fact my Manager was wanking out on me again. I was told where to put the eobs and stuff and although the Leader has not been in for the past 4 days the manager thought i was deviating from the instructions. It annoyed me. I also went and told the "supervisor" everyone has warned me not to engage in conversations. Needless to say glad for the long weekend.

I had dinner with Mom last night. Things are much better between us. She had a bunch of meetings this week and now is finished. She went shopping and bought me a new pair of boots for the winter. She was writing her thank you notes and she keeps asking me about mine. I started mine tonight.

Talked with Liz a couple of times this week. She was exhausted. She and Nelson are going upstate for the weekend. They have had a busy week recuperating from Christmas. I am not sure how long it will be until she gets to see the grand children under the age of 6. I know she misses them when they are not around.

Mom says Bob and Ethel have left for California for a week at a Spa courtesy of their lovely daughter who has a full on cold while on Tour. it was her Christmas gift to them. Diane is still in DC and will be there for another 16 days. IF you would like to know where she is going next just go to southpacificontour.com (at least i think)

Jim and the kids are fine. Mom talked with Jim the other day. I am sure I will find out more as the weekend progresses.

Okay well I better get upstairs...talk to you all soon.

ah success

Okay its kinda early and got up early to get the pups out and they went...so hopefully by the time I am leaving for work they will not go again. However they have been chowing down on the kibbel I have out for them. I asked NavyResGirl rom the NCIS fandom for some advice she is a professional pet sitter and she

I don't expect much mail and not too many people to be at work today. Not sure who the supervisors are going to be. If I finish the mail then I am going to work on the readdress mail as well.

I have a meeting with Debra this afternoon before coming back to the house. I don't plan on going to my house today maybe on Wednesday.

I just don't know what to do.

i just don't know to do about the pups. Its been really too cold to take them out since this storm and they did pretty well since this morning but twice tonight they pooped in the house. I took them out when I got back from being home. But I didn't go very far. They pee'd but that's it. I know that Packy pee's inside as well as pooped before we got ready for bed (and that was early).

I have also been wrapping the boys in blankets and one of them has my robe around him upstairs. The house is some what cold but better upstairs then down here. I have to make sure they go tomorrow and the rest of the week. It is supposed to get a little warmer but part of me is a little uncertain in the dark with my feet. As it is I did fall tonight and I am afraid that the boys would get loose.

Work went well despite the fact I was really cranky for most of it. it took me an hour to get to work as I was driving slowly. The browser was acting up for me but by the time I left it was better. Many others had a hard time with the internet as well (and they legitimately had a reason to be on there)

Mom was out wehn I got home but again it was stressful. She was really not hearing me when I spoke to her and I am really sick and tired of repeating myself to her.

I am certainly not going out now

We are in full storm mode. The city sent out one of those emergency messages about safety, parking, and evacuations if necessary. I even called Mom to discuss things and i was going to fast. She did remind me I need to get up extra early (no kidding folks) to make sure I am not blocked in (there is really no other place to park). I was explaining to her I was going to do that with the dogs.

Anyway, the point of the rant is I am not going out there with these animals at all. Neither of them like the really cold weather and one has a habit of pulling me too fast and we all know how I am a little unsteady on the feet and walking.

Been home since probably noon time. Bingo went well and Ryan was there alone this time. He did most of the transporting of patients. I can't remember how many there were this time. I took some time and chatted with Natalie and then I left for the deli.

I stopped at Bella Napoli's for a couple of subs. I had brought strawberry shake milk and finished those about three hours ago. I had a half of each sandwich (one for lunch and the other for dinner) so far. Spent the rest of the afternoon watching NCIS and taking the dogs out once.

Asked the neighbors if they will take care of the shoveling and the husband said there is more coming and I told him "Oh I don't mean now!" I really wanted to say dumb ass to him but didn't want to alienate him.

Mom also knows I didn't go to church. I todl her I normally go to church just not today. She accepted that as an explanation. But I really could have gone but I didn't want to be out in the weather. Considering all this I found it rather funny that she told me to be careful while driving tomorrow.

Okay well I better get back to the boys...

We are expecting some snow this afternoon

Hey everyone. It is almost 7:30 and I have been up with the pups for about 2 hours. They have been really good. they have not left me any more gifts since Friday. They are walking around here while I write this. We went went walking around 6 and I saw a live deer. I watched it for about five minutes and it turned around and went back the way it came.

As the heading says there is a winter storm coming in sometime this afternoon. I am going to get some food (a couple of dinners for myself) and some juice and bread. Not going out once I come home from bingo and the store.

Christmas Day was pretty good. I after I did some laundry I headed over to the house. MOm was baking some muffins and we opened our presents. She likes the gift certificate I got for her from Talbots. She also got a scarf, electric candles from PA Branch of the family. From our neighbors yesterday along with the cookies we each got something. I got gloves and scarfs, a new watch. Mom gave me a blouse that I wore to Cheryl and Mike's. I also got a necklace from Mom.

Around 1:30 I headed to Mike and Cheryl's. We didn't eat until maybe 3 or four. It was basically Mike and Cheryl's family. MIke Juniors girlfriend.

We talked and played a the Kinect game for the 360. I left around 5:15 and was home by 6. I called Mom and told her i was home. I got a few phone calls and called them back. They were to cousin Jane and the boys/pups Mom.

After feeding them and walking them we watched TV upstairs.

In about 20 minutes though i am heading to bingo and then to the store.

Heading off to Sister's

heading off to sister's



Okay heading out now...there were some plans that did change. My brother called to say hi I guess and they said that their Tenant Gihad was still at the house alone and Mom suggested that we bring him to the party. So after some telephone game it was decided I would pick him up that all changed by 5:30.

Count Down Begins

Count Down begins


Okay been here since maybe 12:30. I made it to the Restaurant in good time despite the fact that everyone else seems to be out today doing last minute shopping. I was beginning to get a little anxious as time seemed to be getting away from me. When I got home Mom had been working in her office.

Mom did a dry run to the place of the wedding this morning and nearly got lost. Happily she found it and made it back with little to no problem. Now she is just vacuuming and tidying up the place. She managed to use the stocking hooks that Liz gave to her on the TV stand. It really looks cute.

I have been doing a couple of loads of laundry including the clothes I am wearing tonight. This is where the anxiety is coming in. I still ahve to feed and walk Pups befroe going over to my sister and brother in laws house. I just told Mom that's what time I plan on going over. I told Mom I would go over to Liz and Nelson's from Nancy's house after walking and feeding the pups. That means the shrimp need to be ready to transport.

I have managed to do the Christmas gifts for tonight I asked Mom if she is going to bring Audrey and Jason's gift over and it turns out they might be there after all. This is great news. However I just realized that the boys next door will be ther and one of them asked me last year for their gifts (and frankly I thought that was a bit rude) I really don't want to be subjected to that again.

right now though I am also trying to do other laundry and unfortunately trying to clean up this room. Every time I move there doesn't seem to be enough room or things fall and It aggravates me. Hence the anxious moments.

MOm says there was a really bad accident last night. The man tried to run away from the accident afte plowing into a neighbors porch doing some structural damage to it. Kim called Mom to urge her to lock the door. Apparently the guy has a history of being a felon. Kim knows all this because her brother called.

I think its time for me to take a shower and get dressed. The clothes the khaki pants and rose shirt and sweater are all ironed.

We had a visit from Shannon Dolan with the annual cookies and presents. I thought that was very sweet of them. They do that every year.

I knew this would happen.

Shortly after I posted this morning's entry I smelled this aroma. I knew in an instant what that meant. I looked all around the house lower level first. I should have just checked the bathroom. one of the lovely men left a package. I suspect it was Packy. Since he sits on the couch outside the bathroom. OF course Preston could have since he eats his breakfast there. So now I have the rug in the washing machine and as soon as that's done I am going to the restaurant. It isn't open yet.

Just had a great chuckle from [info]hawk_soaring I highly recommend you read it (over at Livejournal.com). To all my blogger readers and friends may you have a blessed holiday and safe one at that. I will probably peek in later.

First Night

Well my first night with the pups and gerbils went exceedingly well. I got here to the house around quarter of three walked the dogs and they stopped at every place to pee. Much like the scenes in Reasonable Doubts with Mark Harmon and the dog as his pet. It was really cold and I felt bad for little Packy who apparently doesn't like the cold. Preston my new sleeping buddy does. When I arrived the first time Preston growled for a bit and then when we sat down he was great. He sat on my lap a lot.

After a while I came back to my house and had dinenr and packed a bag. Mom was irratating me for a bit but we got through it. I think it was nearly six when I left there. My room was a complete mess and i had some guilty feelings about it. Mom said not to over do things at all or it would be adverse for me.

When I came back Preston did the same growling bit to remind me whose home i was in. Now I have to admit I did the close to the face and he didn't like it. At one point he did nip me and I am trying to remember if that was after the close face or later. I would just talk with him and tell him not to growl.

Nancy called a few times and I finally talked with her some time after 8. I told her about the growling part but not sure that was a good idea. I told her I didn't eat the soup or chinese food they left for me but she did ask if I didn't have in a day or two to throw it out. I have to honor Mom's request not to eat their food. I did have some milk and soda for the medication.

When we got back from the second walk we watched TV and Preston finally gave me a kiss..(awwwwwww). He sat on my lap while we watched TV while Packy sat on his pillows in the computer room. I fed them some treats and relaxed.

Around 9:30 I closed up shop and headed upstairs. Packy first stayed in Olivia''s room for a while and then sat on the pillow by the bed. Preston cuddled up with me on the bed. I have to admit I was a bit achy and the bed was very hard and having the dog in the crux of my arm took some getting used to. I made sure he didn't go above my head as I seem to recall if you allow the dog to be above your head he would be come the dominant partner in "our relationship".

I watched TV until after 10 and then fell alseep until 3. Preston made adjusted his position several times and I managed to make a couple of bathroom runs.

This morning I gave them all fresh water, walked the pups until they did their "poop detail" something they didn't do last night (the peeing yes) which concerned me a little. Watched TV gave them some treats and now have no idea what they are doing as I am writing this. I have fed the gerbils. One of them nipped me. I threatened to feed them to cats.

Now I have to get ready to do some last minute shopping. Then head over to the house and do some stuff there before the next walking session. I have to admit we didn't go very far as I am worried about Packy he doesn't like the cold very much.

Christmas Recess 2010

Well it is here Christmas Recess 2010 has begun. I have been here since 8:05 and I am not sure just how many people are here. We have to sign in with Claudia. I know there are at least three people of my team here. I was afraid I would be in this office alone.
The best part of Recess aside from the hours is being able to dress down. I mean I don’t normally get into suits or skirts. My wardrobe is usually business casual. I have worn skirts and dresses before but it is hard to do when you are bending over or something. Mom was a bit concerned when she saw me in the jeans but I explained to her its recess as of today. She nearly panicked for a minute because she thought it was Christmas Eve.
After work I will head over to the pups and give them there walk and then head back to the house to do some stuff. Mom urged me not to over do it. I just want to make sure things are done. I just know I have left things undone for the holiday. Many of my family members (cousins mostly) will not be getting cards this year. My intention was to keep sending until New Year’s Eve. I am not sure that will work.
Yesterday work went well. I got a lot done and managed to keep civil with certain people. Before leaving I had a chat with Cami and Joanie. I was afraid it was going to get contentious. It worked out. Cami did tell us that Gayle asked about work (and the mail job particularly) and that made me uncomfortable. Cami didn’t lie to her (and I really didn’t want her to but) and told her what was going on. They reminded me again to be careful with CM.
I heard from Ron K yesterday he added me to the Facebook App for yearbook. I signed up for it but in order to do more I have to upgrade. Brother Jim sent me a message and asked about it and that’s when I found out more about it.
My Gift for Bob finally came yesterday. Mom was concerned that I got my tea from the place. She was pointing to the different signs on the box. I told her it was the coffee that I order from the same place. To reassure her (and I was pleased at the way I handled it) we opened and she was relieved.
We got some more cards with holiday newsletters. Those I love cause then you get to catch up with people you don’t get to during the year. I tried a couple of times rather unsuccessfully I might add.
You should have heard the wind this morning. It sounded like it was a tornado. It is the second day in a row for this too. The weather reports are calling for snow showers for the southern part of the state. After that nothing until closer to the New Year I am really hoping it isn’t a lot as I have only my sneakers on and no boots.
Well I better finish lock box and then order lunch from downstairs. Its Angus Cheeseburger…

I met my new client's last night

Last night I met with Nancy H and her family to discuss the next week how I will be watching their four legged children/siblings. We agreed to meet around 5. I got there a little early as the traffic was slow and I wanted to be sure I could find the place without trouble. After asking a neighbor for exact location I parked in front of this beautiful three family house that is on the beach.

I knocked a couple of times on the door. I could here “come in from Nancy who was standing on the steps inside. I was met by Preston an adorable 3-year-old mini pinscher. I was warned to not put my face into his as it would be an adverse reaction. It was agreed I would let him do it. I also met Packy. I am guessing a mixed breed of bichon or poodle. He was ten and no teeth and lots of bark. They both were getting to know me and I believe by the time I left loved me.

Nancy and I talked about what she was looking for and what the pup’s schedule was like. They are walked three times a day in the morning, when any one gets home in the afternoon and perhaps after dinner.

She asked me what my work schedule and what my plans were for the holiday and I explained to her that I would be working for the recess and that I would be coming home in the mid afternoon.

When it came to discussing payment it looks like I am going to let THEM decide as they feel the $25 fee is not enough. They are giving access to their computer, food, and laundry area. They gave me a run down of where to find the food and where to put it for them (apparently they don’t eat in the same room together).

Oh and it looks like I will be feeding their daughter’s two gerbils. One’s name is Oreo. The other I can’t remember. To be honest I was having a hard time remember Preston’s name as well. I am pretty certain Preston isn’t his name either.

I am really going to enjoy this next seven days. They will leave me instructions and phone numbers in case I may need anything. I don't really expect to but it will be good to have.

Crazy Busy

Hey everyone it is Tuesday and I am working. I am still writing the weekend entry that I have been working on since Saturday. Yesterday was just too hectic to even write. That doesn’t mean I didn’t get online at all.

Sunday was crazy busy. I went to bingo and had some of my former helpers Ryan and his friend Andrew help out along with Jillian and Nicole. WE had a fairly decent crowd this week. Margaret and Jeanette came to bingo and that pleased me. I started at 10 and we finished a little after 11. Santa Claus came again to visit the residents. This Santa Claus’s suit was from the Victorian age.

Sunday Afternoon Dave picked me up for the Nutcracker Suite. The sky got a little ominous and cold but no snow. The show was lovely despite the fact I fell asleep a few times. I was just tired and the room dark.

Shortly before the show was over Mom called me on the phone. Obviously I iddn’t answer until the show was over but she called to let me know she was going to dinner with the Knitwits. She had completely forgotten about. When I heard the message I decided that Dave and I would go to dinner.

We went to The Bear and Grill on the Post Road in Orange. It was so cold out and I was glad to get into the restaurant. It didn’t seem to be a large crowd yet. Dinner was delicious. We started off with salads and for the main course we both had something different. Dave had pork chops and vegetables. I had Steak with onions and mushrooms and vegetables and potatoes. When we finished Dave dropped me off. I wasn’t feeling well soon after that. I got ready for bed, made a call to Nancy and then took a nap.

I can’t remember when Nancy called me back but we agreed to meet tonight after work and discuss the duties. She wants me to house sit while taking care of her two dogs. It will be from Thursday (12/23) to Saturday (1/1/2011). When I told Mom about it she objected that I don’t stay at Roberta’s when I take care of the cat. I was a bit annoyed and mystified at her response and we nearly got into an argument over it. A short time while we discussed the house sitting. Mom said I could do it if I wanted to since we are not doing anything Christmas Day (or similar to that). She did remimd me to not leave a trail behind me.

Yesterday was equally as busy as today. My Manager came to me about to ream me out for using a lap top (something I don’t have) after being told I specifically had one. Two others around the team DO have it. We suspect that CM said something.

Last night I met with Debra this session was less agitated then last weeks. By the end of the session we agreed to meet next Monday at 2:30. Can you believe it will be the 27th? After the session I went home and had dinner (left over from Sunday) and watched most if not all of NCIS. Then I got online for a short time and then to bed. Mom came home around 10 I think.



Today has been crazy busy too and I snapped at LG. She is just so ignorant sometimes. She was lamenting on how she got a cold from someone who went to her buffet and was sick. I looked at her and told her “Bubble wrap”. She turned around and that flipping Biatch told me to mind my own business. Next time she butts into an conversation of mine I will definitely do the same thing.

Okay I have some stuff to take care of being leaving for the day.

A Pretty Interesting Day

After posting my last entry that took about three days to write and post this morning I managed to get some sleep. I got up at a good time and started doing some laundry. Mom got up soon afterwards.

I had to be out of the house by 10:30 so I had to move. It was easier said then done. I was fighting a headache and it managed to go after some Tylenol and a shower.

The Inland/Wetland committee was having a little meeting this morning at the end of the street where the City Sewer commission is planning on putting the sump pump station or what ever it will be. Some of the neighbors don’t want it there. That afternoon we got a letter from the sewer commission with a meeting announcement for January 5, 2011. It will have the Wetlands report. Mom won’t be going because it is the same day as Governor Elect Dan Malloy’s Inauguration ceremony and ball but I will be going.

It was after 10 when I left for the bank and for my hair dressing appointment. Lisa did my hair and I have to say it looks nice. We talked about the weather, the holidays, and some other things that had happened. After that I headed out to the nursing home.

When I arrived the receptionist was there talking with one of the residents who was trying to escape. She eventually called up to the floor and let them know. I went and talked with Bob the rec therapist. It seems he will be leaving the Nursing home for a full time job in New Haven. I wish him all the best. He has been working at a couple of other places and will also be leaving them as well.

Around 12:30 everyone started to arrive. I had called Telka to confirm the time (as they had us down for 1 pm). We started shortly after 12:30 and we were on the second floor by 1. We had spent the next two hours going from room to room (for those who were not still quarantined) and giving the gifts. We even sang a few carols.

After the gift delivery we said goodbye to each other and I took off for points east. Stopping at a few stores and getting a few things before I went home. I relaxed for a bit with TV watching. Mom came home dropped off a few things and then went to church.

Then this evening I finally got down to writing out some cards and trying to update the address books.

A crazy Week

It has been a really crazy week. As most of you know I had a lot of family time this past weekend. To say it was busy would be an understatement. Jim and the kids got here just before noon on Saturday. We had some snacks and then got ready for the movies. They all thought started at 2:15 and it didn’t. We went with the flow. We saw the third Narnia movie.

We watched the ads, the trivia, regular ads and then the movie. Mom enjoyed it despite missing some of the dialogue. The two kids sat further down while we were further up. The seats were great.

After the movie we headed home to get ready for dinner. We had 5:30 reservations at Stone Bridge Restaurant. We were the first to arrive then Liz and Nelson and finally Bob and Ethel. We spent the next two hours basically talking about School, Railroad stories, and stuff in general. Liz annoyed me a little with some of her behavior but I hope it didn’t register. We all had something different. I had pasta and shrimp and gumbo soup.

After dinner we all went home. We all did our own thing. Jim wanted to read so Jamie had the TV in the living room. Mom watched TV in the back room until it was tiem for her to go to bed. Emily had Mom’s room. I had gone to bed fairly early because I was going to the baby shower in Middlebury CT.

Sunday was a really cold and rainy day. Mom was making waffles and eggs and bacon for breakfast. I got up around 8. It didn’t feel like a regular Sunday but then again it wasn’t. Everyone finally came down. I was showered but not dressed yet.

I finally did get dressed by 10:30. I was now starting to run late. I called Liz and she wanted to talk to Jim quickly. I don’t know about but later on I might have guessed. I got to Liz’s and got ready for Liz to be ready. We had to stop at the pharmacy to get some things even before we left for Middlebury. Happily it only took about 45 minutes to get there.

For the next two hours we all talked and chatted. We sat with my nieces Cheryl and Lisa and we had fun. There were pictures (some I have yet to see of me again) and chit chats. Liz was noticing how Aunt Marion seemed to be taking over the whole thing and away from the actual grandma Dee. This was something I found to be rather inappropriate but I didn’t say anything.

When the party was over Liz and I left for home. During the ride we were talking and Liz was becoming increasingly uncomfortable with my “living in the past”. When I got annoyed she became verbally abusive. She swore at me and said that she doesn’t like being reminded that she was a screwed up by me. You know what? I told her not interested in her guilt trip and that was not my intention of making her feel bad. I almost asked her then why did I need to hear about an hours worth of Railroad history at the table the night before? Anyway by the time we were back her house things were better. Oh and on the way home she did end up answering my questions of where she was living at a certain point.

I have to admit by the end of the weekend I was really honked off at my family for their attitudes, their point blank comments they felt necessary to share. For example Jim and I were talking about pets he had the nerve to tell me that I shouldn’t ever get a dog again that I can’t take care of it. I was hurt by that comment. I didn’t feel he had the right to tell me things like that. He also found it necessary to tell me that we have put on weight since 1984. Yeah? No shit. That was almost 20 years ago.

Monday brought some interesting activities. Work wise found out that Claudia M will moving down the hall and working with Sally and another Manager on a system that also will link the clinics and hospital better than in the past (something not unlike the Epic system that I mention in previous entries). The epic System is going to go live in two years and the Manager spent most of the week back in Wisconsin. Getting back to the news about Claudia apparently this was old news to most everyone but me. She spent most of the week working on some stuff for the mail updates, her own last minute “supervisorial work” and the new stuff she will be working with as of the January 1. OT went back into effect by Wednesday.

I received a phone call from Natalie at the Nursing home letting me know there was a full on quarantine for the flu. All activities were cancelled until further notice at least until Friday. So I was phoning and emailing Telka back and forth that day and then again on Friday when the quarantine was finally lifted-actually not completely lifted but we could still deliver the gifts this afternoon with certain restrictions and precautions.

I talked with Liz and Nelson during the week. Liz hadn’t been feeling at all well since our return from the shower. Apparently she had food poisoning or caught something from someone there. As the week progressed found out she had shingles. There was some question as to having Christmas Eve at her house. It seems it might be back on. She can’t be near any pregnant women, children, or perhaps Mom. Liz seems to think Mom will be alright but Mom doesn’t but will check with her Doc. I had chicken pox but even with my own immune system being unstable not sure about it.

I finally got some shopping done (the key word is “some”) on Thursday and a little Friday Morning (on the way to work-thank God for Dunkin Donuts). I managed to get about five or six cards addressed and mailed as of Friday too. I will be doing more in between my hair cut appointment and the Gift Delivery later today. I will of course need updated addresses for family members. This is about the same time I have to say next year I will do things differently.

They are coming today

Jim and Emily and Jamie are due to arrive here by Noon. Mom and I have been running around the house making sure it is in order. I spent most of last night getting my room in order and doing laundry. I even told Mom I would stay up as long as needed to make sure it was done but she insisted that I not get over tired.

While I did my laundry and the vacuuming and getting rid of papers Mom did some cooking and baking. I had offered Mom a piece of banana bread that Telka had not only made but gave as an appreciation gift. Mom felt the need to ask me if Telka gives gifts to everyone and whether or not I give Telka a gift. I told her I used to but she does this for all the officers for the good jobs they do. I spent a good long time trying not to get aggravated by this discussion as I felt it was not her place to even discuss it or question it. This is just one more thing I could add to the list of resentments and when I should be able to speak up about it.

For right now though I am going to let it go. The rest of the day is going to be with Family. We are going to see chronicles of Narnia: Voyage of the Dawn Treader at the movies. After wards we all are going to Stonebridge for dinner. Liz and Nelson and Bob and Ethel will be joining us. Mom invited them after talking with Jim last night.

I was able to get to the store before all of the festivities begin. I got a bib towel and several bibs with attitudes. I also managed to get diapers. I was afraid l that something goes wrong. I didn’t get to the bank or the post office but that’s okay.

Okay we just got a phone call saying they will be here in a matter of moments so I am going to relax.

Another Week over

Wednesday afternoon I had lunch with a young lady I haven’t seen in years. Her name is Beatrice and she was a former neighbor of mine here in Milford. Her Best Friend for ever Beth M joined us. Beatrice and her siblings grew up with me. Their Mother died of Cancer in 1985. I can’t remember how much longer after that they moved away. We talked about the neighbors, our memories of the neighbors, and of events that happened. When I would ride the bike past the girls they would ask me if I still liked Lee Majors and which I replied now it’s Mark Harmon. We really had a great time. Beatrice tells me how often she sees her siblings and her father who lives in a Senior housing complex in West Haven. Of course I showed her pictures of Jim’s kids, and of Audrey and Jason.

That night was the Woman’s Club meeting and Party. Mom came home early from her meeting to heat up the Chinese Food. We were both kind of agitated but she also had people coming over to discuss their wedding vows. Anyway neither of us appreciate the other’s responses so it was sticky to say the least.

The meeting and party itself went really well. We wrapped the gifts for the gift delivery for West River Nursing home later on this month. Then we ate and then had the meeting and then an installation and then ate some more. There was a lot of food. I think I got home by 8:30 or 9. Mom was still a little testy which pissed me off again.

The next morning though I made sure she knew I was appreciative of her coming home early to help with the cooking. She will never think her responses are inappropriate or rude. That I am just imagining a slight where there isn’t one.

Thursday I worked until six (and it looks like that’s going to be it for the time being. We got word today it has been cancelled because we are over budget). I went home and got ready with Mom to the DTC meeting/Party. It was enjoyable. Mom couldn’t hear a lot and any time I went to talk to her or do something she commented. Whether it be taking up someone else’s space at the table (this was frustrating to say the least).

When we were leaving the party Mom and were discussing things that needed to be done in preparation for the kids’ arrival this weekend. Earlier in the evening I told her I would get my room done on Friday. Mom says okay. But they may be here Friday. Okay then I will do it tonight. Oh Kate just do some laundry and but don’t push yourself. They may not be here until Saturday. Can you see my frustration in this discussion? Anyway, Mom offered to put the one load I did do in the dryer and fold them for me so that I could go to sleep.

Mom tells me that there have been some slight changes in the plans for this weekend visit. Jim called rather upset the other night with the news that Kristina would not be attending the family activity as she had some thing to do for Tennis this weekend. Both Mom and Jim feel that Claudia knew this was going to happen as she picked the date. Yet at the same time Mom tried to convince Jim that this is as important for Kristina to do as it sports related and something she is interested in. The other thing which I am sort of relieved about is “No Christmas Tree”. I don’t want to be responsible for the tree in anyway, shape, or form. Anything else is a maybe.
As I said earlier we found out today that OT for now has been cancelled because we are over budget. Unfortunately there is still a lot of work to be done. So there are many people upset by this but I hope it won’t be for long in both cases. My work has been getting done regularly by 4 pm. The bad addresses for yesterday still need to be finished but I am hoping to get to those again shortly along with today’s.

Now that OT has been cancelled for now that leaves me time to do the things at home that need to be done as well as the shower gift search. It also allows me to start the Christmas holiday stuff.

As it is we have a birthday party for co workers next Tuesday our Department breakfast on Friday. Then we have our team party at Brazzi’s that afternoon.

Well I have some more stuff to do before I leave for the day so ta-ta

Phelan Family Update

I haven’t been much into writing these last few days. Between fighting a cold, aches and pains from lupus, and working it has been a struggle to stay up and write. I do have the regular medicine I take so that’s helpful but I still get the aches. Most nights I am trying to adjust to the breathing machine I got right before Thanksgiving.

Work has been very hectic as of late. I had gotten overwhelmed with a lot of work and it got back to people and so it came to a head on Friday. I was reminded by those to really ask for help with things get backed up. Something I am not accustomed to doing. It was pointed out that not everyone does either. What also touched my heart was just how many people came to me and asked what had happened and gave so much love and support it was wonderful. I am expecting the following weeks to be less stressful personally. My Supervisor ended up having major surgery this past week so she may be out for some time now.

The volunteering gigs are pretty good. The Woman’s Club had the annual Pie in the sky and baked 50 pies for Aids Project New Haven and have been preparing for the holidays with the sing-a-long, and gift delivery. We have our holiday meeting this Wednesday. We are also having Club T-shirts, and sweat-shirts made. There is also a discussion about participating in the Discovery Channel the Discovery Education trip. 1 Teacher and five students get to go a place and learn about it. It can be considered community service as well. More can go to it. It sounds very exciting and a little expensive.

On the Town Committee front we had the very successful Auction after the election and now are preparing for our holiday activities. Soon we will be preparing for the next election round. Our Governor elect will be sworn in after the New Year and his work will begin. I am beginning to think his work already began…

As I write this Mom is making cookies for the upcoming holidays. Actually we are expecting Jim and the kids by the end of the week if the snow doesn’t get in the way.

Mom has been keeping busy with the committees and boards she belongs to. She recently had lunch with her classmates. They do this about once a month I guess. Its better than doing a big reunion (oh and they do that as well). She has been asked to preside over a wedding Christmas Eve. We are not sure of the complete details as she has not heard from the interested couple.

We had a nice Thanksgiving dinner/visit with Jim over at Bob and Ethel’s house. Diane came in from touring with the Play. Bob and Ethel have a “tenant” staying with them this semester. He is a student from Saudi Arabia and is name is Jihad. A fact my nephew Rich took and ran with.

Bob and Ethel are planning on being in Washington DC during the Christmas Holiday while Diane is performing with the show at the Kennedy Center until After the New Year. John is in Korea and will be for the rest of the year (that I know of) he did call on Thanksgiving Day. I hear from him via Facebook. Robert spends a lot of time with his girlfriend and is working.

As I am writing this Jim is talking with Mom on the phone about next weekend’s activities. They will be spending the entire weekend decorating our house for Christmas. I can’t hear everything right now but it has to be about the decorations and the tree. Of course this all depends on the weather system that’s supposed to hit us by Thursday.

Jim tries to spend as much time with the kids as possible. He has been on retreats and going to his Doctor appointments regularly. The girls are doing well in High School (at least that’s what I understand). Jamie has been enjoying school as well and all of his activities. In all Honesty I really don’t know what else other than Boy Scouts and school to what they are doing. The kids spent Thanksgiving with their Mother’s family in NJ.

My Sister and her family are doing pretty well. They are excitedly waiting on the next generations of Rivera’s. Their Son Nelson Jr and Lisa are expecting their New Year’s Baby. Their son Adam is preparing for October 2011 Wedding in California. Liz seems to think that once Adam and Olga have been married for a time they will be moving out to California permanently. Their Daughter Cheryl and her family seem to be doing fine. Both Rich and Christian are both working as much as possible. Chris moved to the other side of Milford with his new girlfriend. He looked good the last time I saw him (Thanksgiving night). I expect to seem again by Christmas.

Well I was expecting to do some shopping tonight but it didn’t come to fruition. I have already gotten a gift for the holiday party tomorrow (thanks to regifting-shhhhh). So I guess I will do some laundry and then an early night.

Have a great one.

A Messy rainy Midweek

Days like this were made for staying home in bed and reading or just plain staying home. The weather reports were lucky to have been right again. It was very messy but warm. Many lost their umbrellas as I walked to the office. Soaking wet by the time I got to my office. I was pleasantly surprised that I got there actually at 8.

I was afraid I would be late to work. I had gotten up at 6 and turned over up fell back to sleep until 6:45 that is until when woke me up. I had a fairly restful evening despite the fact I could not feel the air in m nasal passages like I did the night before so my mouth ended up getting very dry. I found something in my mouth I wasn’t quite sure what it was. So for obvious reasons ran to the bathroom and rinsed with mouthwash.

I spent the next twenty minutes rushing around getting ready for work and chatting with Mom. I managed to leave the house after 7:30. The traffic moved along despite the weather. By the end of the day there were reports of several power outages through out the state. The lights in the building flickered about three times.

The day went well. Although for most of the morning I was stiff and achy and I didn’t really do much. I think it had to do mostly with the weather but also how I woke up. I had that feeling of a ball in the middle of my back. It was gone by the afternoon after I had my meds.

Patti was a little nervous by the amount of envelopes from the Registration pile I had on my desk. I told her I was fine that it would be taken care of. Haply both the volume for the lockbox and post office mail was light enough I could work on the other stuff. I managed to finally get rid of those monthly medical society magazines and the Yale directories. I have two days worth of bad addresses now to do. The lobby mail needs to be done. Plus the other readdresses stuff. I couldn’t tell if Patti might have been annoyed or just very busy. Actually I felt that way with a couple of people today but that would be with the family unit.

Annette talked with Gayle today she is doing fine. Everything is working just fine. She will be going home from the hospital in the next couple of days and probably will be coming back to work on a part time basis after the holidays. Some of us were concerned that she was returning sooner than she should have. Most of them were expecting her to return in the spring. Annette went to see her after work. When asked what we could get or do for her she said “Behave yourselves”.

Mom had her Bridges meeting this morning and it was successful. She has another early morning meeting again tomorrow. She did some grocery shopping. She tells me there are some excellent deals at Costco for coats and pants (jeans). We decided to go there on Saturday.

Mom tells me that a couple in “The Knitwit Club” lost their 50 year-old son today. Apparently he has been very ill of late. She explained that apparently a few years ago he had a transplant and they used blood that wasn’t good. Ever since then he hasn’t been very good.

I talked with Liz today. She was tired and I have a feeling a tad cranky. My cell wigged out on me again and she asked me why I hung up on her. I explained that I couldn’t hear anything from her side (something I told her on Sunday). Anyway, after we cleared that up. We got on to the subject of Christmas. Who wants what and “don’t spend a lot on everyone?” She acknowledged I am very generous but that not everyone needs to get gifts. As I said to Mom I am certainly not walking into a house with all of Nelson’s family there and not get them anything. Before hanging up though I told her I would take her advice under advisement.

Something I noticed and have been noticing a lot. Every time I want to hug either Audrey or Jason or the neighbors kids Liz seems to get anxious. She tells me not to keep hugging them or they may not be receptive. I get this overwhelming feeling she is afraid that I am taking their love from her. What should I say to her or should I say anything? I may just let it pass but if it happens again I am going to ask her about it.

Well I think I will close out for now. I have some more emails to move around and update some files and then get ready for bed.

Have a great night.