Thursday, April 23, 2009

Underwear Story #2 - Coffee, Tea, or Me?

Well, I think I'm just going to jump into this story because there's no real way to ease into stories about your underwear. (Read story #1 if you haven't to catch yourself up)

A few months ago, during flu season, I had been getting sick from either the flu or cold so I thought a trip to the doctor was in order. Now, if you know me, I don't like doctors. I don't like the fact that doctors feel they NEED to give you pills or medication. To me, being sick is more of a pain because it takes time out of my busy schedule. Well, during one of my bouts of the flu I had been experiencing some cramping of some sort on my left pelvic side. I figured that since I was going to see the doc I'd just mention this to him and he'd give me some prescription and I'd be on my way.

The day I had decided to go to the doctor I had been so sick the night before (was housesitting at the time too so that was double the fun) and didn't really think about what I was wearing when going to the doctor. When I was in the doc's office and after I had told him about the cramping I was experiencing he asked me to hop up on that noisy paper that wrapped a bed and lay down. As I was laying on the table I wasn't really thinking about anything and just wanted to be on my way. So I proceed to....how do I say this politely.....make my pelvic area more accessible to the doctor, he was about to press his hand on the area of concern but hesitated when he saw my underwear. Now, if you recall, I was sort of out of it earlier that morning after the rough night I had so I didn't think about my undergarments. Also, if you have read the 1st underwear story I wrote you will know that I have 'unique' ones at that so this story won't be as surprising.

Anyway, I couldn't figure out why he hesitated when I can only see the top of his head while laying down and my mind started racing about what I had actually put on that day. I knew they weren't the musical ones (for sure!) and my mind started zipping through the variety of slogans or phrases that would have stopped the man from doing his job. Not that I have that many, mind you and not that you need to know that but it does sort of help with what was to come. Then all of a sudden I realized I had on a pair that had a picture of a coffee cup and saucer with the phrase Coffee? Tea? or Me? written on top of it. When the light bulb went on in my head I started busting out laughing and all the blood went to my face with embarrassment!!! I had to cover my face and hold in my gasp of 'OOHHHHH NOOOOO!!!!' that had projected out of me in between the laughter!! I was SO embarrassed?! Here I was, on top of the table, somewhat exposed and the only thing I can do is cover MY FACE!

Now, usually when I'm embarrassed I have to laugh it off cuz there's nothing I can do about it at that time....especially in the predicament I found myself in. We both had a chuckle and he proceeded with his Physician duties and started writing out a prescription (of course). After he handed me my prescription he had to make the wonderful comment that I shouldn't take it with coffee or tea!!

Well, I think I made a definite impact on the man that day and unfortunately have seen him since and to which he recalls the wonderful incident. At this point I can only laugh and add it to the wonderful collection of stories to be told.

Tuesday, April 21, 2009

Muffin Recipe

You know, I think I could be famous. Really, I could. I can honestly say that I'm proud that I can make an honest muffin recipe and have amazing compliments on them. I wish I could 'take 'em on the road'. I could make some money on them but can I really go into business only making a muffin?? Well, I guess KFC did that with one kind of chicken!

I can give you the ingredients, however, I have to admit that I change it up alot and I mainly can tell how much to add to the mix depending on the consistency. I converted the original recipe because I wanted to make it healthier but this is the original. I can't give away ALL my secrets!

1/2 cup soft butter
1 cup sugar
1 egg
3 mashed bananas

(mix all that together first then add)

1 Tbsp baking soda
1 tsp salt

(Mix well)

3 Tbsp Sour cream
2 cups flour
Mix and add chocolate chips.

Optional ingredients: Frozen berries.
Bake 350 for 15min +/-
Enjoy!

Now onto perfecting the chocolate chip cookie....... ;-)

Monday, April 20, 2009

Silence in the Chaos

As most of you know, I lost my job a month ago. That's right, I'm unemployed and looking for work along with the other 15,000 people laid off last month in Alberta alone (a total of 48K since Oct) according to Statistics Canada. Since my time off, I decided to take a couple weeks and spend it with my family back in Ontario and see some old friends from way back. It was a great visit and even made some cash by painting my sisters place. All in all I really did accomplish alot while I was there. I read two books, had a job interview, visited 8 different cities (2 countries) and painted my sister's kitchen, bathroom (twice - primer), hallway and living room. I did a lot! Oh yes, I even babysat one night, changed some diapers and kicked the dog a couple times. Surprise, surprise.

Now that I'm back and without children the chaos still runs in my head even though I sit in my living room with only the sound of these keys typing and the kitchen clock ticking. I actually started experiencing some anxiety the day I was leaving to come back here. I can only presume that it is because I have to face the reality that I am without a job, don't know what to do, where to live, what city to live in, apt to move to, what I can offer someone, what I would like to do, what I'm good at, etc, etc. I could honestly go on but to actually write down all that is running through my head might scare you and overwhelm me.

As much as I'd like to say I'm pretty calm about all of this I guess my gut is telling me otherwise. For the past 3 days now I have indigestion that won't go away and as much as I feel like eating breads or something to soak up the acid forming in my stomach that might help I know it will be of no use. The weight on my chest doesn't help or pressure on my head either. Geesh....sounds like someone could use a drink or get laid but I know either one ain't happening any time soon!! haha (I can hear you gasping right now - hee hee)

Surprisingly I haven't really cried over the whole situation other than the day it happened but even then it wasn't too bad. I think, however, that it must've been building up cuz my eyes are feeling full but it won't come out and I feel I can take control of the situation. The 'factual or realistic' side of me can easily say that I'll be okay financially for a few months and I know I'll need to get out of my apt as much as I dread the thought of moving my sorry ass TV again. That thing is just too big for me! I also need to purge cuz I haven't even unpacked some things from my last move. You know you don't need something when.....

As much as I would like to be on top of my game on this small concern I have I know that I need to face the elephant in the room and know that this little holiday won't last forever. You see, in one breath its a small concern in the next its an elephant in the room. I feel torn with what I see and can differentiate between fact or fiction. Is it a huge problem? Maybe. Will I find work? Eventually. Will I be taken care of? I have no doubt.

The questions don't rest at what I've mentioned above but they seem to spin into other questions of how I want to be living my life? Do I need all these things? What is my standard of living? And on and on. Dramatic a little. Maybe but that's why I'm trying to 'be in control'. But then....., maybe God is trying to teach me that I need to 'let go'. Silence in the chaos.

It's so funny and ironic because a year ago MANY people weren't questioning anything of the sort given the lifestyle and money that was being made. Busy lifestyles and spending was all consuming. I know I'm definitely not alone on this issue and many have had to give up their houses, move in with family members, walk away from everything. And trust me. Trust me. I know that in all of this I am still blessed to have the freedom that is given to me and the boundless options out there for me. But some things are just a little scary to do on my own and the more options available seem a little overwhelming.

Warning: If you happen to, all of sudden, see me bust out crying than you'll have an idea as to why.

I gotta go make some muffins and get my mind off this for a bit.

Tuesday, April 14, 2009

My Confession

This post is in relation to my previous one so if you haven't read it you might want to before spending time on this one.

I did actually buy some perfume today but it wasn't at Bath and Body Works. I did refrain from that BUT just before I was there I had been in Victoria's Secret. Now, whenever I go to the States I have to go there...it's essential. I love that place. When I was waiting in line to pay for my purchase (which was money my mom gave me so technically I wasn't spending my money) I saw a candle that I wanted to smell. The candle fragrance is Vanilla & Sandlewood. Oh my! It was so good, however, I didn't purchase it.

Yet.

I paid for my items and went out of the store. Then I told my sister how good it was and I HAD to have it. Her response was, 'so get it' and how can I resist that. If I'm getting approval from my sister, my TWIN sister at that...how can I refuse.

So, yes, I did buy something and no it wasn't the candle. You see, they had a package all made up of particular items with that smell so now I have the soap and body spray but I was also generous and gave the lotion to my sister. I probably shouldn't have and could've used the money on something else but boy do I smell good. Love it! Period.

See....obsessed.

The Obsession

Now, is it just me or am I the only one that has some strange obsessions. Well, I don't think they are strange but the more I come in contact with one of them (especially), the more obsessed I become with it.

What are they would you say? Well, the first is more common to those around me because I comment on it alot and that would be my teeth. Ever since I had my braces taken off at a young teen age I have been concerned with how they look, what's in them and people's comments on them. Since people had made comments alot or specifically my smile I knew that I need to take care of them because my smile is sometimes SO big. I don't think its a bad thing but I do get concerned when things are in my teeth and if I eat things like blueberries or drink tea and try to prevent them from getting stained. So.....please don't take offense if I ask you if I have anything in my teeth. It's not you...it's me.

My other obsession is that of perfume or smelling good. This is the one that I am more concerned about or that I am more obsessed with. I love perfume. Love it. L-O-V-E I-T. I don't just specifically mean perfume but what I am referring to is that of a smell that is a good smell. It could be hand lotion, room spray, cologne or a candle. Oh....and I can't forget laundry detergent. oooohhh weeehh!!

As long as it smells good...I'm all over it like a fat kid on a smartie. Today I was at the mall with my twin sister and we passed by a men's clothing store and they entice customer's to enter their store by spraying men's cologne into the main walkway. To me, that is wonderful marketing and I could've cared less about what was in the store but just stayed in the walkway all day. I even had to refrain from going into Bath and Body Works today because I knew that if I smelled something that I HAD to have I don't think I could refrain. Since I'm laid off right now I can't exactly afford to be spending money on things like hand lotion when my bathroom drawer is full of fragrances to last me quite a while. There's also a store in Toronto called Gina's which is a highend bathroom fixture store that carries wonderful room scents. Thankfully I didn't have my wallet with me or I would've gotten something but let me tell you....when I get a job....I'm going online to purchase that sucker. Seriously....I have a problem.

In the grand scheme of things....I'd rather have that be a problem than others. It could be worse and at least you know that I'll try my best to smell good. And maybe, you'll try to do your part too. haha

Monday, April 13, 2009

April 13th Birthday Girl

To my dear friend Melanie. You are one special girl!

We met at work, we hung out with friends and now we worship together at church. I've been friends with Mel for about 8 yrs now and we've shared many a laugh and swapped multiple stories.

Mel, I'm so thankful you were approachable enough for me to share with you the Good News. You were the first person I've ever shared it with and it opened a can of worms that was waiting to get out. I've loved the parties you've hosted, you're welcoming home, you're great husband, wonderful talks and the bond we've created through our bible lessons. Oh, and of course seeing your wonderful little boy! How handsome! I love that we share the name Wyatt as well!

Thanks for the camping trips we've been on and for the rides we've shared together. You're a good woman and I look up to you for the discipline you carry when it comes to health and your constant thirst for reading more about God even if some times it doesn't make sense. It doesn't make sense to most of us some of the time but you are persistent in your study and you keep me on my toes.

You're a stand up woman who carries integrity with grace. You respect marriage and family more than people know and also splash fun on those around you. People are lucky to meet you and I'm so glad we've continued our friendship over the years.

Now....can I borrow the 2nd book of the Twilight series please.....haha. Love ya!

Remembering my dad

Today I am thinking about my dad. Since 14 yrs ago and now forever more I will remember him on this day. Actually I will remember 3 people on this day. Aside from my dad, I will remember the Rubel family as well since Diane Rubel passed away today and a celebration of my friend Melanie who's birthday is today.

On April 13th, 1995 was my dad's last day on earth and his first day in heaven. I remember it more in celebration than in sorrow or pity. I think of his past and how his life affected others and what he hasn't seen since his passing. Overall, I'm proud of my dad. He was a great man and I wish all my friends had gotten a chance to know him.

My dad's first introduction to church and to God was from an early age and under unsuspecting circumstances. Him and some friends used to live on Rido street in Toronto during the Depression era and named themselves the Rido Rats. One day they were throwing rocks at an elderly ladies house when they broke a window. One of the neighbours Mr. Whitehead, caught them in the act and told them they had to choose between paying for the window they had just broken or go to church camp, to which Mr Whitehead would pay their way. Obviously the boys agreed to go to camp and from then on it changed their lives forever. Those 4 boys later all became preachers, that being, Murray Hammond, Joe Cannon (mainly a missionary in Japan), Keith Thomson and my apologies on forgetting the other preacher's name.

My dad also went to Harding for one semester but had to return to Canada after being diagnosed with Tuberculosis and ended up in the London, Ont hospital for 3 years. During that time he was a witness to the nurses around him and fellow bedmates. I know one of the nurses became a Christian and also aided in the beginning of the London Church of Christ.

My father has preached across the country, from Vancouver, BC to Winnipeg to Toronto and finally Windsor, Ont where my siblings and I grew up. I never saw my dad preach though since his health was declining and had to quit when I was 5yrs old. Apparently he was a fantastic speaker and people have commented on his sermons for many years. He used to tell me that he would put a certs in his mouth before he started his sermon and when the certs was done....so was he. It's so encouraging to hear about how my father was so helpful to others or performed their weddings or baptized them or how he used to play jokes all the time.

While my dad was laying in the hospital for the last time our family was also working on compiling some of his sermons to put in a book which now sits on my bookshelf. I'm glad I have a piece of his past and influence a part of who I am today.

I do miss my dad but I think I miss more of the memories I've created since his passing. I wish that we could have talks together and that I could ask his advice on things or what to do in certain circumstances. Either way, I know he'd be proud and I'm so thankful to have had him in my life.

Thanks Dad! I'll always remember holding your hand one last time and watching you slip away into our Father's hands. You're at peace and without pain. See you.

Wednesday, April 1, 2009

These are a few of my favourite things......

1. Laughter
2. People making me laugh when I least expect it
3. Road trips by myself, singing in the car
4. Singing in 4 part harmony
5. Listening to a singing bass voice
6. Camping
7. Canoeing and dipping my feet in cool water with the sun beating down on me
8. Walking along dirt paths with trees creating a canopy overhead
9. Rainy days in the fall
10. Going to the mountains
11. Becoming closer to God
12. Seeing old friends
13. Sunday afternoon naps on my couch
14. Fresh laundry
15. Having great talks with friends on a summer evening
16. Lemonade on a hot day
17. Warm summer weather in the evenings
18. Smelling good
19. Sleeping in my bed
20. Being inspired and celebrating someone's life at their funeral
21. Connecting with children
22. Going to Coombs, BC and visiting the market 'Goats on the Roof'
23. Summer weekend drives
24. People saying they need me
25. The sound of fall leaves underfoot