I found this in my draft. It's from way back in August of 2009. Better late than never, huh?! I guess the title is more than appropriate, huh?
Well, I was just looking at my posts and the dates of each. I haven't gotten much accomplished as far as my writing project for the summer. And summer is officially gone! Cassidi started school on Monday. Tomorrow will make a complete week of back to school. Amazing!!
I have no idea where the summer went. But it sure happened. I've started two stories, but haven't gotten back to either. Maybe one of these days I'll really get serious and dedicated to this effort. I have this terrible habit of wanting to tell one story, and getting sidetracked in others. My brain rambles on like this ALL the time it seems, not just in my writing. Jennifer sometimes refuses to have a conversation with me because I bounce around topics so much. But much to her dismay, I think she's gotten the bug a bit herself.
In the past few days I've had a feeling of great sadness. There are a lot of people sick or injured in my life and sometimes it just gets overwhelming to deal with emotionally. Just the other day Cass made the comment that life just didn't seam to make much sense. We go to school for a LONG time which is a fairly un-fun task, only to get a job that usually is an even more un-fun task. She struggled to see the point of it all. I tried to give her some pros related to it all. I don't know if I was very convincing.
But I do think in all of it, the real nugget to hold on to is the relationships. If we truly allow ourselves to feel and to give, we can build some quite fulfilling bonds. Of course, opening your heart creates vulnerability. But giving unconditionally makes the receiving that much more powerful. I have to keep reminding myself of that when I hit these lows. I also try to encourage Cass to compliment others more. It's a lesson I need to keep in the forefront of my mind as well. I don't know why we value the giving of compliments so much. It doesn't cost us a single penny. But we are so selfish with them.
I always turn the tables on her when we discuss this topic. I ask her to remember how special it makes her feel when someone compliments her. And what impact there was to the person giving the compliment. It usually makes her stop and think. I hope she takes those lessons with her in life and finally gets to the point where she can give unconditionally in the compliment department.
Just like the summer, this day is gone. I need to get some rest for a long day of work tomorrow. But for some reason, my mind is wandering and unsettled. Hopefully a good night's rest will cure that.
Monday, December 31, 2012
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Fired up!
You know how people that know a foreign language say they always “think” in their native tongue? Well, I kinda feel that way about my writing. I have a running commentary in my head of things I want to write about. Or feelings that I’m having expressed in sentences and paragraphs. And instead of sitting down to actually put pen to paper (or as is always the case for me, fingers to keyboard), I get lost in the moment and it never gets documented. What I need is a stenographer to follow me around all the time, and I could capture those fleeting thoughts.
But alas, no stenographer means no writing. Something I love to do so much seems to be such a difficulty to accomplish. I must make amends. I say these things and feel them passionately, and then again it gets lost in the shuffle. Kinda like me working out, flossing my teeth every day, and the list goes on and on. But this is truly something I need to address. I made the pact with myself to write at least one thing every month. I’ve managed to keep that promise (this month by the skin of my teeth!). One month I think I even got fired up and wrote three things. But whatever the case, a new goal needs to be established!
I think maybe it’s time to get serious about a book! I’ve hemmed and hawed for long enough. Of the three ideas I’ve had that I’ve actually gotten started on, I think I like the idea of the love story that develops around the Blue Ridge Parkway. I’ve read a couple books about the people that helped establish the area where I live right now. I’ve always loved history, and I think it would be neat to incorporate some of the history of this place into a fictional modern day book. We’ll see how much luck I have with that.
So, I’ve burnt through 6 months of this year with only a handful of writing efforts. I’m going to have to do some research to formulate a “book writing goal” that is achievable. But I AM going to start. I am going to put fingers to keyboard and create my to do list:
1) Write at least one chapter on the Blue Ridge Book in July
2) Exercise at least 30 minutes 4 times a week
3) Do at least 5 minutes of yoga every day
I’m going to keep this short as the clock is ticking on this day. Thanks to all of you reading and sending good vibes my way. I do feel them! And I send them back your way, too!
But alas, no stenographer means no writing. Something I love to do so much seems to be such a difficulty to accomplish. I must make amends. I say these things and feel them passionately, and then again it gets lost in the shuffle. Kinda like me working out, flossing my teeth every day, and the list goes on and on. But this is truly something I need to address. I made the pact with myself to write at least one thing every month. I’ve managed to keep that promise (this month by the skin of my teeth!). One month I think I even got fired up and wrote three things. But whatever the case, a new goal needs to be established!
I think maybe it’s time to get serious about a book! I’ve hemmed and hawed for long enough. Of the three ideas I’ve had that I’ve actually gotten started on, I think I like the idea of the love story that develops around the Blue Ridge Parkway. I’ve read a couple books about the people that helped establish the area where I live right now. I’ve always loved history, and I think it would be neat to incorporate some of the history of this place into a fictional modern day book. We’ll see how much luck I have with that.
So, I’ve burnt through 6 months of this year with only a handful of writing efforts. I’m going to have to do some research to formulate a “book writing goal” that is achievable. But I AM going to start. I am going to put fingers to keyboard and create my to do list:
1) Write at least one chapter on the Blue Ridge Book in July
2) Exercise at least 30 minutes 4 times a week
3) Do at least 5 minutes of yoga every day
I’m going to keep this short as the clock is ticking on this day. Thanks to all of you reading and sending good vibes my way. I do feel them! And I send them back your way, too!
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Blessings Counted
In this world where one day follows the next at the speed of light, it is extremely easy to take each for granted. In the last four years of being a permanent resident on this mountain, I have made every attempt to enjoy each day to its fullest. Some days I’ve been more successful than others.
In my recent journeys, I’ve made every attempt at not only stopping to smell the roses, but to seek out the roses in every nook and cranny of life. I’ve learned it doesn’t have to be a rose for me to enjoy the fragrance. I’ve learned that I don’t have to look too hard or too far to find opportunities to savor. I’ve learned that this state of mind is infectious and can improve the moods of those around me.
In losing people close to me, it has made me more aware of the brevity of our stay here. So much of our existence is spent in waiting for the next event. That mindset only serves to increase the pace. But it’s an easy rhythm to fall into in our hurried society. I’ve tried to learn from those that have gone before me. Some have had some warning, while others have not.
I believe God provides lessons of learning and growing in the various opportunities we find ourselves in. Many times it’s difficult to see them as the conditions are so heart breaking. We’re never given a guarantee of long life or happiness. But we’re given a heart and soul that we can nurture and grow in the time that we have. Personally, I think that’s the purpose each of us serves in our journey.
A couple of Sundays ago, we had quite the scare with Tony. He was traveling late at night on Highway 77 in a Jeep Wrangler. An 18 wheeler came up behind him and rammed him. We think he must have been asleep as he wasn’t even aware he had hit him. When he did finally stop and Tony approached him, he had no idea what had happened. Fortunately, Tony was just punted off the side of the road onto a grassy embankment. Numerous what ifs could have taken him that night, but graciously didn’t.
His guardian angels surely got a workout. I teased him about being a cat with nine lives. He’s teetering on the edge of running out. He lives life to the fullest, and adds many gray hairs to my head. He teaches my heart and soul on a regular basis. I am so grateful for finding him all those years ago. Who would have thought that at 18, I’d find the person that would complete my world. It may have taken me a while to figure it out, but I definitely GOT IT!
The blessings have been many in my life, and I am so grateful for each and every one. I hope I’m leading my life in a way that honors the gifts that I’ve been granted. I hope that what I give back is more than that I have received. I am only human and still stumble along the way. I am by no means a saint, merely a human trying to find my way. Thank you God for all the blessings!! I will continue to attempt to share them forward.
In my recent journeys, I’ve made every attempt at not only stopping to smell the roses, but to seek out the roses in every nook and cranny of life. I’ve learned it doesn’t have to be a rose for me to enjoy the fragrance. I’ve learned that I don’t have to look too hard or too far to find opportunities to savor. I’ve learned that this state of mind is infectious and can improve the moods of those around me.
In losing people close to me, it has made me more aware of the brevity of our stay here. So much of our existence is spent in waiting for the next event. That mindset only serves to increase the pace. But it’s an easy rhythm to fall into in our hurried society. I’ve tried to learn from those that have gone before me. Some have had some warning, while others have not.
I believe God provides lessons of learning and growing in the various opportunities we find ourselves in. Many times it’s difficult to see them as the conditions are so heart breaking. We’re never given a guarantee of long life or happiness. But we’re given a heart and soul that we can nurture and grow in the time that we have. Personally, I think that’s the purpose each of us serves in our journey.
A couple of Sundays ago, we had quite the scare with Tony. He was traveling late at night on Highway 77 in a Jeep Wrangler. An 18 wheeler came up behind him and rammed him. We think he must have been asleep as he wasn’t even aware he had hit him. When he did finally stop and Tony approached him, he had no idea what had happened. Fortunately, Tony was just punted off the side of the road onto a grassy embankment. Numerous what ifs could have taken him that night, but graciously didn’t.
His guardian angels surely got a workout. I teased him about being a cat with nine lives. He’s teetering on the edge of running out. He lives life to the fullest, and adds many gray hairs to my head. He teaches my heart and soul on a regular basis. I am so grateful for finding him all those years ago. Who would have thought that at 18, I’d find the person that would complete my world. It may have taken me a while to figure it out, but I definitely GOT IT!
The blessings have been many in my life, and I am so grateful for each and every one. I hope I’m leading my life in a way that honors the gifts that I’ve been granted. I hope that what I give back is more than that I have received. I am only human and still stumble along the way. I am by no means a saint, merely a human trying to find my way. Thank you God for all the blessings!! I will continue to attempt to share them forward.
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Wide eyed and bushy tailed
I look out the window and see green. It doesn’t seem that long ago when we were all complaining about snow. As with most everything, give it time and things change. Sometimes the change is for the better, sometimes for the worse, but change is ever present.
Tony and I head off to Aruba this weekend to celebrate our anniversary. I’m recovering from what I think was a sinus infection and hope to be full steam ahead when we fly out. I’ve heard so many great things about Aruba. I’m finally getting to the point that thinking about it is a reality. Like so many things that are in the future, it doesn’t take on “real” proportions until it draws near. Some sun and warmth on my face and body will do me some good!
Life is in one of those strange zones for me. I’m motivated, but yet I’m not. I guess I’m more in auto pilot mode. I never do very well in that state of mind. I’m always looking for something to do, but always wary to take on new things. It’s like my energy level isn’t up to speed, and my mind says one thing, but my body another. Maybe it’s just the sinus infection talking. But I do have this funky spell every so often. I guess we’re all entitled to a breather every once in a while. Because I seldom take them, I think it’s just a little foreign to me.
I lost two beautiful days Saturday and Sunday to this miserable head junk this past weekend. Monday I decided it was time for the doctor. But Tony had been snooping through the medicine cabinet this weekend for something to help his back when he stumbled across Zyrtec D. I don’t know why I didn’t think of it this weekend, but for some reason I didn’t. Anyway, I decided to give it a last ditch shot before going to the doctor. I had already been taking Nyquil which I totally despise! It makes me incredibly loopy, and I have crazy dreams when I take it.
The bottle said it could cause drowsiness. I was looking forward to some sleep. However, it had quite the opposite effect on me. I was completely wide awake and WIRED! It was as if 10,000 chipmunks had landed in my brain and were darting around. I did my best to try and be calm, but I was crazy! I had cancelled a massage appointment first thing in the morning, but thought maybe by the end of the day I’d be better for yoga class. I probably should have cancelled that, too!
I was feeling a tad better, and about an hour before I was to leave for class, I decided to play some Wii. Yes, you read correctly! I finally caved and purchased a video game system. I do have ulterior motives that I truly believe will pan out in the long run, but suffice it to say, I probably play the silly game more than Cassidi does! Anyway, time got away from me, and I flew out the door to class. Not a good start to trying to be calm! I called the wellness center and let them know I was on my way, just running late.
When I got there, no one was in the classroom. I thought, dang, all that effort and no one even attended. But then one person came in. He’s a regular so I proceeded to chatter about my crazy medicine day and such. I let him know I’d only be able to do a meditation class since I had no idea how long my voice would last before I flew into a coughing spell. All was well and we made it through with no complications. However, at the end I noticed I had my shirt on inside out! I can only imagine the image I was portraying. Bug eyed from the chipmunks brewing in my head, inside out clothes, nasal voice droning from a barrel – ACK!! Not the serene, peaceful yoga setting one would expect. I guess it’s a good thing only he showed up and was understanding! Thanks Ray!!
Anyway…
I guess that’s life. I’ve just got to learn how to keep taking one day at a time and be grateful for the experiences vs. striving for perfection. Life is far from perfect. And besides, perfect is pretty daggone boring. Every time I think I’ve mastered that concept, it seems I need yet another lesson. Here’s to rolling with the punches and learning the fine art of bobbing and weaving!!
Tony and I head off to Aruba this weekend to celebrate our anniversary. I’m recovering from what I think was a sinus infection and hope to be full steam ahead when we fly out. I’ve heard so many great things about Aruba. I’m finally getting to the point that thinking about it is a reality. Like so many things that are in the future, it doesn’t take on “real” proportions until it draws near. Some sun and warmth on my face and body will do me some good!
Life is in one of those strange zones for me. I’m motivated, but yet I’m not. I guess I’m more in auto pilot mode. I never do very well in that state of mind. I’m always looking for something to do, but always wary to take on new things. It’s like my energy level isn’t up to speed, and my mind says one thing, but my body another. Maybe it’s just the sinus infection talking. But I do have this funky spell every so often. I guess we’re all entitled to a breather every once in a while. Because I seldom take them, I think it’s just a little foreign to me.
I lost two beautiful days Saturday and Sunday to this miserable head junk this past weekend. Monday I decided it was time for the doctor. But Tony had been snooping through the medicine cabinet this weekend for something to help his back when he stumbled across Zyrtec D. I don’t know why I didn’t think of it this weekend, but for some reason I didn’t. Anyway, I decided to give it a last ditch shot before going to the doctor. I had already been taking Nyquil which I totally despise! It makes me incredibly loopy, and I have crazy dreams when I take it.
The bottle said it could cause drowsiness. I was looking forward to some sleep. However, it had quite the opposite effect on me. I was completely wide awake and WIRED! It was as if 10,000 chipmunks had landed in my brain and were darting around. I did my best to try and be calm, but I was crazy! I had cancelled a massage appointment first thing in the morning, but thought maybe by the end of the day I’d be better for yoga class. I probably should have cancelled that, too!
I was feeling a tad better, and about an hour before I was to leave for class, I decided to play some Wii. Yes, you read correctly! I finally caved and purchased a video game system. I do have ulterior motives that I truly believe will pan out in the long run, but suffice it to say, I probably play the silly game more than Cassidi does! Anyway, time got away from me, and I flew out the door to class. Not a good start to trying to be calm! I called the wellness center and let them know I was on my way, just running late.
When I got there, no one was in the classroom. I thought, dang, all that effort and no one even attended. But then one person came in. He’s a regular so I proceeded to chatter about my crazy medicine day and such. I let him know I’d only be able to do a meditation class since I had no idea how long my voice would last before I flew into a coughing spell. All was well and we made it through with no complications. However, at the end I noticed I had my shirt on inside out! I can only imagine the image I was portraying. Bug eyed from the chipmunks brewing in my head, inside out clothes, nasal voice droning from a barrel – ACK!! Not the serene, peaceful yoga setting one would expect. I guess it’s a good thing only he showed up and was understanding! Thanks Ray!!
Anyway…
I guess that’s life. I’ve just got to learn how to keep taking one day at a time and be grateful for the experiences vs. striving for perfection. Life is far from perfect. And besides, perfect is pretty daggone boring. Every time I think I’ve mastered that concept, it seems I need yet another lesson. Here’s to rolling with the punches and learning the fine art of bobbing and weaving!!
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Sights, Sounds, and Smells of SPRING!
The changing of the seasons is so gradual that it often goes unnoticed. However, spring is the exception as it is hard to miss. After being cooped up all winter long, every beast known to mankind (including man) rejoices in the warmth of the sun that spring brings with it. This winter has been especially harsh and thus the rejoicing especially joyous.
As I write, I am sitting on the front porch. The evidence of spring is all around me - the change in the vegetation, the movement of the air, and the fragrance that permeates everything. Mother Nature signals her coming out party leaving no questions asked. She may duck under a cloud or two, bringing raindrops to replenish, but she makes no bones about the vibrancy of spring.
With the breeze singing its thunderous song through the tree tops, the wind chimes pitch in with their harmonious tinkling. The gentle sway of the trees is nature’s reminder that the invention of dance was Mother Earth’s alone. The smells that the wind brings are indescribable. So many have tried to capture it for market, but none do it justice. I think the impossibility lies in the conglomeration of it all. No one smell from a bottle can encompass the awakening of Earth.
The most obvious of the smells are flowers. The bulbs have thawed from the long winter’s freeze to share the vibrant colors and smells of crocus and hyacinths. The daffodils are yet to bloom, but the long, skinny, deep green stems are gathering as much energy as possible for the final crescendo of yellow sunlight that will billow from their lengths in a few days time. If we had to select only one thing that represents spring, it would have to be the daffodil. I think it’s the happiest of all flowers with a close second being the daisy.
Green of every shade is sprouting from the depths where snow drifts held it captive for these many months. The yards and fields that were brown and covered in leaves are giving way to grasses spanning from deep green to lime. The reddish pink hue of the buds on the trees signals the tree’s desire to get busy with work yet again. It’s amazing what a few days of sunlight and warmth can do to the scenery.
I have the blessing of getting to enjoy spring twice each year. Living on the mountain and working in the piedmont affords that. In Mount Airy, the daffodils have trumpeted spring for a week or so. The cherry and Bradford pear trees are in full bloom. They seem to be about 3 weeks ahead of the vegetation here in Fancy Gap. Spring is such a beautiful time, and it’s wonderful being fortunate enough to have it extended each year.
The warmth also allows for yoga on the front porch. I love to sit on the edge of the porch in the sunlight and soak in as many rays as possible. Church for me is nature, so sitting on the porch and meditating is truly a religious experience. Watching the butterflies dance from flower to flower, listening to the birds sing to one another, and seeing the glimmer of light in the limbs and leaves of the trees as the wind blows is as spiritual of a journey as I can imagine. I do my best to absorb it all and carry it with me wherever I go.
The other day I came home to the smell of the grill. The scent brought with it the familiar feeling of warmth from sunlight. I’ve never had that sensation before related to the grill, but it was welcomed. I did my best to enjoy every drop of snow we had this year, but I think I’ve reached my quota for one winter season. It has taken all of these sights, sounds, and smells of spring to make me fully realize just that. Here’s to yet another wondrous season called spring!
As I write, I am sitting on the front porch. The evidence of spring is all around me - the change in the vegetation, the movement of the air, and the fragrance that permeates everything. Mother Nature signals her coming out party leaving no questions asked. She may duck under a cloud or two, bringing raindrops to replenish, but she makes no bones about the vibrancy of spring.
With the breeze singing its thunderous song through the tree tops, the wind chimes pitch in with their harmonious tinkling. The gentle sway of the trees is nature’s reminder that the invention of dance was Mother Earth’s alone. The smells that the wind brings are indescribable. So many have tried to capture it for market, but none do it justice. I think the impossibility lies in the conglomeration of it all. No one smell from a bottle can encompass the awakening of Earth.
The most obvious of the smells are flowers. The bulbs have thawed from the long winter’s freeze to share the vibrant colors and smells of crocus and hyacinths. The daffodils are yet to bloom, but the long, skinny, deep green stems are gathering as much energy as possible for the final crescendo of yellow sunlight that will billow from their lengths in a few days time. If we had to select only one thing that represents spring, it would have to be the daffodil. I think it’s the happiest of all flowers with a close second being the daisy.
Green of every shade is sprouting from the depths where snow drifts held it captive for these many months. The yards and fields that were brown and covered in leaves are giving way to grasses spanning from deep green to lime. The reddish pink hue of the buds on the trees signals the tree’s desire to get busy with work yet again. It’s amazing what a few days of sunlight and warmth can do to the scenery.
I have the blessing of getting to enjoy spring twice each year. Living on the mountain and working in the piedmont affords that. In Mount Airy, the daffodils have trumpeted spring for a week or so. The cherry and Bradford pear trees are in full bloom. They seem to be about 3 weeks ahead of the vegetation here in Fancy Gap. Spring is such a beautiful time, and it’s wonderful being fortunate enough to have it extended each year.
The warmth also allows for yoga on the front porch. I love to sit on the edge of the porch in the sunlight and soak in as many rays as possible. Church for me is nature, so sitting on the porch and meditating is truly a religious experience. Watching the butterflies dance from flower to flower, listening to the birds sing to one another, and seeing the glimmer of light in the limbs and leaves of the trees as the wind blows is as spiritual of a journey as I can imagine. I do my best to absorb it all and carry it with me wherever I go.
The other day I came home to the smell of the grill. The scent brought with it the familiar feeling of warmth from sunlight. I’ve never had that sensation before related to the grill, but it was welcomed. I did my best to enjoy every drop of snow we had this year, but I think I’ve reached my quota for one winter season. It has taken all of these sights, sounds, and smells of spring to make me fully realize just that. Here’s to yet another wondrous season called spring!
Sunday, March 28, 2010
The passage of time
It's crazy how the perception of time is so relative. A day can last forever at times, while at others, a year can pass in the blink of an eye. And of course the "tense" in which your viewing time plays a significant role. The past seems to be measured in minutes, while the present and future are measured by a calendar. This week I celebrated a major milestone anniversary that gave me pause to review life.
March 24th was our 25th wedding anniversary. Even as I type that, it takes my breath away. I cannot for the life of me imagine doing anything for 25 years, let alone being married. I remember celebrating Tony's parents' 25th and wondering if we'd have the privilege of seeing that day. With the various roller coasters we've ridden, there were definitely times when I had my doubts.
Considering the precarious start that we had, it sure would have led the average bear to place his bet on the "never gonna make it" vote. I was 18 and Tony was 17. We were seniors in high school. We had been dating for only two months when I found out I was pregnant. Before that, we both had dreams of college, a life outside the confines of a small town, and all that success that life had to offer. To say that we were devastated at the news would be an understatement.
That was our perspective. Our parents had to be mortified. I was the youngest of five children. My brother had made a pass at college, but I was the last one that was a serious contender for being the first to get a college degree. Tony was the oldest and expected to set the precedent in his family. This turn in the road seemingly foiled all of those plans.
Fortunately for us, our parents overcame the initial shock and pulled together to lift us out of the rut we had dug ourselves into. My Mom got busy on wedding plans and we were married Sunday, March 24, 1985. Once we graduated high school, Tony's parents paved the way for him to attend college at Appalachian State University. Our parents did all they could in helping us get set up in Boone.
It was a scary venture to move to a place where we didn't know anyone nor had any family. But then again, in my naive mind, it was almost like a fairy tale of happily ever after. A new town where no one knew us or our "story", sounded refreshing after the humiliation that plagued us in Tazewell. It wasn't long before reality set in.
I was quite lonely as Tony went to school and work, and I tended to the affairs of the home. It was a time before unlimited long distance plans, cell phones, and internet. While I was surrounded by people, it was as if I was on a deserted island. The only person I interacted with was Tony, unless you counted the check out clerks at the grocery store. I'm not a person that's easily depressed, but the hormones of pregnancy on top of it all made for challenging circumstances.
Jennifer was born November 7, 1985 back in Tazewell. Fortunately I had nephews and nieces that I had been around to know how to care for her. But there were still times I struggled to know what to do as a Mother. On top of that, I struggled to know how to be a good wife. I didn't fully grasp the concept that when I got married and had a child, that my life as an individual was gone. My mind let me believe immature thoughts and those thoughts just festered and grew into poison.
That was the first of the multiple roller coaster rides my emotions led us on in our marriage. It does take two to tango, so I'll not take credit for all of our ups and downs over the years. We've both made mistakes along the way and have done our best to learn from them. We are a living testament of "that which does not kill us, only makes us stronger".
We survived both of our college educations, moving to "the big city" of Charlotte, crazy corporate jobs, and welcoming another daughter, Cassidi born February 21, 1995. Raising Jennifer in the city proved to be more adventure than we could bear so we moved back to the country once she went to college. We're in a little town in the mountains of Virginia, not far from Tazewell. It's great to be back to the small town environment. It truly does take a village to raise a child!
When looking back at the beginning of our marriage, some things seem like they just happened yesterday. Others seem like far more than 25 years ago. But one thing is certain. I am so grateful that I took the plunge with Tony McCann. We have grown up together and have beaten all of the odds placed against us. Sure, we still can have some knock down, drag outs. But we always kiss and make up.
The passage of time fortunately brought with it the passage of maturity in our case. It would have been nice if growing up had been easy and pain free. But we've found the best lessons learned come from the school of hard knocks- we're a little hard headed like that! And it seems we've passed that trait on to our wonderful daughters (sorry girls!). But like Tony always says, a good adventure keeps life from being boring.
Here's to 25 more years of adventure. I'm thinking we'll be a little slower paced and hopefully a little less hard headed. But I highly doubt the adventures will be any less exciting. Thank you Tony for sticking with me through thick and thin. Thank you for loving me and believing in my potential. Thank you for the inadvertent gray hairs and wrinkles that I know are just a byproduct of all the wonderful adventures, but are evidence that it's not just a dream.
Happy Anniversary! I love you!!
March 24th was our 25th wedding anniversary. Even as I type that, it takes my breath away. I cannot for the life of me imagine doing anything for 25 years, let alone being married. I remember celebrating Tony's parents' 25th and wondering if we'd have the privilege of seeing that day. With the various roller coasters we've ridden, there were definitely times when I had my doubts.
Considering the precarious start that we had, it sure would have led the average bear to place his bet on the "never gonna make it" vote. I was 18 and Tony was 17. We were seniors in high school. We had been dating for only two months when I found out I was pregnant. Before that, we both had dreams of college, a life outside the confines of a small town, and all that success that life had to offer. To say that we were devastated at the news would be an understatement.
That was our perspective. Our parents had to be mortified. I was the youngest of five children. My brother had made a pass at college, but I was the last one that was a serious contender for being the first to get a college degree. Tony was the oldest and expected to set the precedent in his family. This turn in the road seemingly foiled all of those plans.
Fortunately for us, our parents overcame the initial shock and pulled together to lift us out of the rut we had dug ourselves into. My Mom got busy on wedding plans and we were married Sunday, March 24, 1985. Once we graduated high school, Tony's parents paved the way for him to attend college at Appalachian State University. Our parents did all they could in helping us get set up in Boone.
It was a scary venture to move to a place where we didn't know anyone nor had any family. But then again, in my naive mind, it was almost like a fairy tale of happily ever after. A new town where no one knew us or our "story", sounded refreshing after the humiliation that plagued us in Tazewell. It wasn't long before reality set in.
I was quite lonely as Tony went to school and work, and I tended to the affairs of the home. It was a time before unlimited long distance plans, cell phones, and internet. While I was surrounded by people, it was as if I was on a deserted island. The only person I interacted with was Tony, unless you counted the check out clerks at the grocery store. I'm not a person that's easily depressed, but the hormones of pregnancy on top of it all made for challenging circumstances.
Jennifer was born November 7, 1985 back in Tazewell. Fortunately I had nephews and nieces that I had been around to know how to care for her. But there were still times I struggled to know what to do as a Mother. On top of that, I struggled to know how to be a good wife. I didn't fully grasp the concept that when I got married and had a child, that my life as an individual was gone. My mind let me believe immature thoughts and those thoughts just festered and grew into poison.
That was the first of the multiple roller coaster rides my emotions led us on in our marriage. It does take two to tango, so I'll not take credit for all of our ups and downs over the years. We've both made mistakes along the way and have done our best to learn from them. We are a living testament of "that which does not kill us, only makes us stronger".
We survived both of our college educations, moving to "the big city" of Charlotte, crazy corporate jobs, and welcoming another daughter, Cassidi born February 21, 1995. Raising Jennifer in the city proved to be more adventure than we could bear so we moved back to the country once she went to college. We're in a little town in the mountains of Virginia, not far from Tazewell. It's great to be back to the small town environment. It truly does take a village to raise a child!
When looking back at the beginning of our marriage, some things seem like they just happened yesterday. Others seem like far more than 25 years ago. But one thing is certain. I am so grateful that I took the plunge with Tony McCann. We have grown up together and have beaten all of the odds placed against us. Sure, we still can have some knock down, drag outs. But we always kiss and make up.
The passage of time fortunately brought with it the passage of maturity in our case. It would have been nice if growing up had been easy and pain free. But we've found the best lessons learned come from the school of hard knocks- we're a little hard headed like that! And it seems we've passed that trait on to our wonderful daughters (sorry girls!). But like Tony always says, a good adventure keeps life from being boring.
Here's to 25 more years of adventure. I'm thinking we'll be a little slower paced and hopefully a little less hard headed. But I highly doubt the adventures will be any less exciting. Thank you Tony for sticking with me through thick and thin. Thank you for loving me and believing in my potential. Thank you for the inadvertent gray hairs and wrinkles that I know are just a byproduct of all the wonderful adventures, but are evidence that it's not just a dream.
Happy Anniversary! I love you!!
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
A country traffic jam
A while back, I had started to blog on my myspace account. That didn't last very long. Recently, I went back to review some of the things I wrote there, and found this story. Thought I'd share it here.
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A County Traffic Jam (written Thursday, June 14, 2007)
I often joke that a traffic jam here in the country is FAR different than one in Charlotte. My usual response is that a traffic jam here is getting caught behind a tractor. But I have a few more to add to that:
1) Having to share the road with a herd of cattle - One day I was headed over to the spa and a herd of cattle had a 'jail break' in the middle of the road. I slowly started to creep through the herd when I got the bright idea that maybe I should beep! ACK! Bad idea - that started a stampede!! Fortunately, none of them head butted the car. There was one poor cow that got stranded behind me when the herd bolted. He eventually caught up, but I learned a valuable lesson!! Beeping in the city is one thing - beeping in the country ISN'T allowed!
2) Having to share the road with the local dogs - On the way to the spa, there's this one house that has 2 dogs. They lay in the road 3/4s of the time. It's right in a curve, too. Knowing they're there now, I just proceed VERY cautiously through that area. And definitely DON'T use the beeping strategy!
3) Having to share the road with the local 'fowl' - Today I had to slow to a crawl just after the dog's house, because there was a rooster in the road. There's also a farm a little further back where guinea's live. I've had to stop on numerous occasions for them as the road seems to attract them.
4) Having to share the road with the local wildlife - Living on the Blue Ridge Parkway, we get to see lots of wildlife - turkeys, deer, ground hogs, raccoons, rabbits, etc. Sometimes they're closer to the road than others. Nothing worse than driving along and having a deer bolt out in front of the car. They usually travel in pairs, so just when your heart starts beating again after the first on, the second one jumps out! An added factor is the 'onlooker delay'. The speed limit on the BRPW is 45 which highly encourages 'site seeing', sometimes causing MAJOR delay!
So, that's the top 5 list if you include the tractors! I LOVE living in the country. I'll take this kind of traffic any day!! Oh, I did forget one other species - the SLOW native. Gosh knows the local neighbors here wish I'd move back to Charlotte!! I'm getting better, but my lead foot sometimes catches a few glares. One of these days I'll be a SLOW native!! Sooner hopefully than later!
Happy Driving!
(As a side note, it's been almost 4 years since we moved up here, and I still have a lead foot!)
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A County Traffic Jam (written Thursday, June 14, 2007)
I often joke that a traffic jam here in the country is FAR different than one in Charlotte. My usual response is that a traffic jam here is getting caught behind a tractor. But I have a few more to add to that:
1) Having to share the road with a herd of cattle - One day I was headed over to the spa and a herd of cattle had a 'jail break' in the middle of the road. I slowly started to creep through the herd when I got the bright idea that maybe I should beep! ACK! Bad idea - that started a stampede!! Fortunately, none of them head butted the car. There was one poor cow that got stranded behind me when the herd bolted. He eventually caught up, but I learned a valuable lesson!! Beeping in the city is one thing - beeping in the country ISN'T allowed!
2) Having to share the road with the local dogs - On the way to the spa, there's this one house that has 2 dogs. They lay in the road 3/4s of the time. It's right in a curve, too. Knowing they're there now, I just proceed VERY cautiously through that area. And definitely DON'T use the beeping strategy!
3) Having to share the road with the local 'fowl' - Today I had to slow to a crawl just after the dog's house, because there was a rooster in the road. There's also a farm a little further back where guinea's live. I've had to stop on numerous occasions for them as the road seems to attract them.
4) Having to share the road with the local wildlife - Living on the Blue Ridge Parkway, we get to see lots of wildlife - turkeys, deer, ground hogs, raccoons, rabbits, etc. Sometimes they're closer to the road than others. Nothing worse than driving along and having a deer bolt out in front of the car. They usually travel in pairs, so just when your heart starts beating again after the first on, the second one jumps out! An added factor is the 'onlooker delay'. The speed limit on the BRPW is 45 which highly encourages 'site seeing', sometimes causing MAJOR delay!
So, that's the top 5 list if you include the tractors! I LOVE living in the country. I'll take this kind of traffic any day!! Oh, I did forget one other species - the SLOW native. Gosh knows the local neighbors here wish I'd move back to Charlotte!! I'm getting better, but my lead foot sometimes catches a few glares. One of these days I'll be a SLOW native!! Sooner hopefully than later!
Happy Driving!
(As a side note, it's been almost 4 years since we moved up here, and I still have a lead foot!)
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