Sisters, Chiya, Big win, big break

We met Paul's sisters at the Cheesecake Factory for a drink and a bit of supper last night. Carol came down from her home in Northwood to check on the patient, Dave who continues to improve. Jean reported that one of the fellows who found him on the walking trail after his fall called them yesterday. She knew him - he's someone who had been one of Dave's clients at the barber shop.

I'm glad the guy called. There had been a lot of speculation about just what had transpired when Dave fell. Did he fall into the creek? It doesn't sound like it. Though it was fairly warm in Des Moines that day, in Webster City the trail was still a bit icy. It was nice of the guy to call - to help clear things up.

While we were having a nice drink at "the Factory" I received a text on my cell from someone I hadn't heard from for a long time - my former Little Sis - from the Big Sis Little Sis program, Chiya. It was exactly a year ago that we had our first get together - the day ISU lost to Ohio State. I picked her up that day about halftime and brought her back to our place to bake cookies - so I really didn't even pay attention to the game. I know - hard to believe for a die-hard fan like myself!

first date

You can't believe how tickled I was to hear from Chiya. She left last summer to be in her cousin's wedding in Mississippi and went right to Boston to live with her mom for the year - and I never had a chance to say goodbye. In Des Moines she lived with her Grandma. We texted a couple times, and I heard from the Big Bro Big Sis folks - but I didn't really get in closure. They asked if I wanted to be matched up with someone else.

Chiya had told me she alternates living with her Gran and her mom. And even though she's now "aged out" of the BB=BS program I want to stick with the kid. She asked me last night if we could get together this summer when she comes back - I told her "Yes, I kinda like you kid!" She didn't say if she'd stay for the school year. I don't care though - I'm just glad I get to see her again. I felt like I was just getting to know her when she left. Her texts last night made me smile. She told me to tell Paul "Hi". And now daughter Amy has signed up to be a Big Sis in Denver. In my experience it's a very rewarding thing to do.

This morning Jean went to the hospital early because Dave started therapy, but Carol agreed to meet us at the Waveland. So we posed for the usual photo...they recently updated the window for Easter/St. Patrick's Day. Another Newbie broken into "The Wave".

Carol, Paul and me - reflection

My nephew David and wife Ashley called yesterday to thank us for the step stool Paul built for their little guy Jonah. He's adorable - and loves to say "stool" when it's time to brush his teeth and climb into bed. Great Uncle Paul really came through and it was nice of them to call to tell us in person. They live in Manhattan and we don't get to see them much. :>(

Yes he could be a baby model...

The first characters in my life - cartoons

I love cartoons. Especially the old ones - they're classics. Some of them may not have been very politically correct - but hey, I was a kid. The country was immune from even thinking about such things.

I'm watching the Oscars as I write this - and they're awarding the little statue for Best Animated Short Film. Such talent. Frozen wins the full length animated film. It's times like this that I miss my Little Sis, Chiya who moved back to Boston to live with her mom. I lost my excuse to go to animated films...plus I miss the kid.


bugs does the Monster's hair

When I get the chance, I watch a few Looney Tunes on cable. It's a walk down memory lane. I find cartoons relaxing. Laughing seems to do that. Last week I saw one of my fave Bugs Bunny bits- Hairdresser.  It's about a minute long - so cute. I love Bug's hairdresser voice - I wonder why my stylist Sarah doesn't talk like that. Kinda like the old Palmolive commercials - Madge, "You're soaking in it." Can you imagine nail salons trying to get away with that?

Another cartoon buddy of mine was good 'ol Foghorn Leghorn. And his little buddy the chicken hawk. Another cute clip. Baseball. We all grew up with Foghorns in our lives, didn't we? That coach, teacher or family friend.

I got on board the original Sherman and Peabody train - during the Bullwinkle and Moose show. There is a Peabody movie coming out soon. Watch a clip of this if you're interested. Peabody.  I was always attracted to the dog cartoons - especially this one where the dog is the reversing places with the master.

Tell me this Tom and Jerry Ducky Cartoon isn't the cutest most adorable thing evah. The little quacky duck gets me every time.

To my heros, Popeye (a short clip of laughs only) and Speedy Gonzales - I wish I could have been more like you....(fast, strong and brave). I'd watch you, put on my new PF Flyer tennis shoes and run like the wind (in my mind). I begged my mom to buy spinach. I didn't try to squeeze it into my mouth right from the can though. I wasn't that dumb. I was dumb enough to think canned spinach would taste good and make my muscles bulge. Ha. Ick.

Tex Avery - credit Wikipedia

Frederick Bean "Tex" Avery was a cartoon genius - animator, director, voice actor - he did it all. Avery did my all time fave cartoon - Droopy. Here's a short clip. Don't worry - the bad guy isn't really dead. Creston's Dan Miller and I have had many a deep discussion about just which Droopy episode is truly the bestest. I think there might have been liquor involved.

Oh Wolfie - My college roomie Vicki and I used to get such a kick out of this all those years ago. Then when Amy was born - those early feedings again came during cartoon time. Do you think that might have something to do with how the kid has turned out? Plus now that Paul and I are ballroom dancing fools - I appreciate this clip even more.

Get in touch with your inner child. Find more reasons to laugh this week.

Ash Wednesday is coming right up. Even though winter doesn't want to let go. I laugh at you winter.

Paddleboard, Gonna Miss that Kid, Fair

When I was growing up, a paddleboard was a piece of foam you would hold on to when practicing swim stroke kicks. It was small and there was no standing on it! Now days there is a new type of paddleboard, called the Stand Up Paddleboard.

A friend asked me to attend a performance Sunday of dancing at Gray's Lake on SUP, along with a ground performance. The routine was done accompanied by live chamber music. Sunday was a beautiful day, with a light breeze. The dancers were strong and athletic - at one point one did a back bend on her board! They did two numbers. It was fun being there.

Pam - standing, JoAnne - hidden by the umbrella with daughter Alexa - or these could be people I don't really even know...haha

Before the performance Pam - a friend who works with Paul and JoAnne, another of Paul's co-workers, and JoAnne's daughter Alexa and I ate picnic lunches at the Gray's Lake beach. All sorts of activities were going on around us - people were riding bikes, swimming and throwing frisbies. It was fun to be out and with friends!


Musicians off to the right
 

Tuesday, my colleague Scott and I headed east of Cedar Rapids to the town of about 700 people called Olin. It's just north of Highway 30, right by the winding Wapsipinicon River. We got there a little early so we parked on main street and walked down to the river to stretch our legs after the 2 plush hour drive. It was easy to spy the derelict building we were to meet with a group of people about later.

Scott paces along the building

 We walked back up the street - and noticed many historical buildings - unfortunately mostly empty of businesses.


There is a bar in town - and it has an ape in front of it!

After our meeting - that included an asbestos removal contractor, a recycler that will take all the metal and several town folk along with DNR staffer and a landfill representative. We headed over to the former car dealership building to check out the inside. The town plans to take the old roof off the building after the asbestos is removed. Then they will put a new roof on and attempt to sell or rent the building - to a new business.

Some of the roof has fallen in - along with some asbestos material

This 1979 map shows when the place was last used

 

It was moldy in there! There is a lot of work to do but the roofing contractor seems to think he can handle it. I wish them luck with this project. On our drive back, Scott and I discussed the tough road small towns face in today's world. They've lost their schools and retails stores - it's a struggle to stay viable! At least Olin is a short drive to Cedar Rapids and Mount Vernon - but bedroom communities need to figure out how they will make it. We stopped in Lisbon for lunch - and had a good pork tenderloin and a bad piece of pie. Then we were on to the Tama County Landfill, to tell the director there about our programs. It was a worthwhile trip.

Besides Tuesday's trip, my week has sucked! I realized I lost my confirmation for my plane ticket to Austin, TX to visit my homegirls in October. I was in an email tossing mood recently and that must have been one I tossed. Worse yet, I didn't even remember who I bought it from - at least when I first hit panic mode on Monday...talk about feeling dumb.

I tried emailing Paula Bacon - I had sent information to her about my flight, right? Nope - she didn't have it. I spent my lunch hour scouring my gmail account. No luck! When I got home, I searched that computer and files - not there either. Paul couldn't find record of it on his computer - that's what I usually do - send it to him. I did recall that purchased it direct from American, and Paul found the record of purchase on our credit card bill. So I called American and they gave me a code.

By then it was about time for my ride to come for my monthly night out with the Diamond Brooke ladies. I hit the restroom and brushed my teeth. Then I sat on the front steps about 5:40 p.m. And sat...about 6 I gave up and came in. I found Connie's phone number and called and left a message - sorry I'd missed her. Later she called to say they had stopped and honked, then knocked on my door too! Geez - I must have been in the bathroom and missed by a scant minute! I was very disappointed. It's how my week has gone...

Tuesday night I ended up with a migraine at 2 a.m. in my eye - it lasted until 4 a.m. I dozed during it, and it was gone when my alarm went off. But I decided to stay home for a while this a.m. because I felt crappy. I still do. I'm not sure if it was the mold or the change in the weather yesterday. Thank goodness for Frova - my migraine med.

Today at work I text Chiya, my Little Sis from the Big Sis Little Sis program. She's been in Mississippi since early July - at her cousins. I wanted to know if she would be back so I could take her to the Iowa State Fair - it start tomorrow! And in case you don't know - our state fair is a GREAT state fair! I've been bummed ever since I heard back from her. She's moving back  to her Mom's house in Boston this year. She told me when I first met her she does that every other year - I guess I just didn't think it would really happen. I'm happy for Chiya though - she should be with her Mom!

I was really looking forward to all the things we would do together. And now we won't. I suppose they'll try to talk me into hooking up with another Little Sis - but I think I'll pass for now. I need to get over this one...

I was just getting her to share a little bit...with me - not the Zombie

Tomorrow night Paul and I are planning to go to the fair - it's supposed to be a gorgeous night. He pretends not to like the fair, but he actually suggested it. So we'll head out there after work - it will be fun, and I'd go just for the smells. Next week I get to work at the DNR Recycling trailer Monday and Tuesday. Then on Wednesday we're heading to Lake of the Ozarks for our summer vacation - I can't wait. I do need a vacation!



One year ago...

What a difference twelve months can make. In church yesterday I was pondering again. (Yes, my mind wanders as the Homily drags on.) A year ago we were just getting home from our great family reunion trip to Cannon Beach, Oregon. This year...

S'mores...Cannon Beach 2012

• Bolder wasn't yet aware he was still ill with evil cancer
• In mid July I had my manipulation surgery to release scar tissue in my right shoulder after months of pain and immobility. That was followed by weeks of physical therapy and more pain. I was able to put my arm over my head for the first time in months, and broke through the pain after several week of PT.
• Paul had submitted his application for a permanent job in GULP Des Moines at the NRCS state office, and received notice that he got the job a few weeks later. It was one of those - "we hope it happens, "Oh shit" kinda things.
• We celebrated our 30th anniversary

He's got the jacket on here

Big stuff. All of these events have had huge implications. Except our anniversary, which was more like life as usual. With each passing year, and especially after this last one I realize how lucky and blessed I am.

Of course losing Boldie - in such a short time after the docs told him the cancer was back was the biggest baddest thing. It's all really still so surreal.

The shoulder thing made me realize I'm not getting any younger. Though I still can't seem to get in any kind of work out routine or rhythm. I know I need to do it, but I can't find my way there. I walk and ride my bike but it's all sporadic. I need a trainer and a plan. I can't seem to get motivated to workout after 10 hour work days. I'll figure it out eventually. I may have to bribe a certain workout fanatic from Creston to move to DMS.

If you read this blog then you know how much the move has affected our lives! Mostly for the good. We sure miss our homies - our Creston friends. And we still consider ourselves Crestonites - pretending to be city folk. I suppose over time that will change. I have lots of people who have lived here a long time say - "you do lots of things I never do". We just take advantage of it, because it's all new to us! We're like kids in the candy shop.

We like city life - and the opportunities the Des Moines area offers. It's convenient to live near an airport. Amy flies in tomorrow after her 6 week trip to South and Central America. We can go to any movie showing on any night. Restaurant options are limitless. We live on a bike trail and many more are minutes away. There are lots of concerts and live music opportunities and we're seeing Jersey Boys Wednesday night. The short drive home is sweet - especially late at night. Another bonus is being able to volunteer! I love hanging out with my Little Sis match, Chiya. She's been a blessing in my life.

I got to introduce Chiya to Amy

We have found that in Des Moines, we get to see friends from afar and family more often. We were able to host Easter this year with the Goldsmiths. Paul's sis Carol calls when she's in town visiting daughter Barb. Cindo and Bonnie came for a fun visit in June. Robbie Dob called when she came through town and Jane Ertl messages when she's in the area. Bobbie and Jeff stayed a night and we biked in our neighborhood, which was lots of fun. Mary Faber stayed last night! Kay and Alyssa Wilt called as they were heading through town. I need to do better about seeing local friends like Joan, Mary and Jane. It's nice living close to I-80. We got new beds ya'll - the welcome mat is out!

My shoulder gives me little reminders that not all of the scar tissue is gone. Early this year I even had to visit a chiropractor for some treatment. It's motivational, really. I'm not going to frozen land again!

I think of Bolder often. I picture him in his yellow jacket tucked into his plaid shorts like a homeless guy. He is with us going forward - especially in his son Colby (and his near-son Byron Pottorff). Our children too have absorbed their uncle Bolder. Legendary.

Change, though scary, can be good for us if we take advantage of opportunities. That's what we're trying to do by "living la vida loca". (well it's been crazy for us)

Amy in Equador awaiting Eddie

No not really. Yes, she now has her Ecuador sticker. She's in Vilcabamba. No, she isn't seeking asylum with Edward Snowden. She was having a bit of a problem with the malaria pills she was taking - they were giving her Montezuma's revenge if you know what I mean...but she started taking them with food, and that cleared up.

I took a long walk tonight when I got home from work. It's been too long since I was one with my iPod. I forgot how well I can think when do that. I have a dilemma. My Little Sis Chiya needs to learn to swim. I tried to sign her up for private lessons at the YMCA near where she lives - but they pretty much blew me off. I don't think they have enough teachers.

One of the yards at Diamond Brooke - our townhouse complex

I could teach her myself. It's been a while, since I strapped on the 'ol teaching swimsuit, but I'm sure it's like riding a bike. There's another wrinkle I discovered yesterday when I picked her up yesterday when I thought we were signing up for lessons at the Y. Her two girl cousins - who are close to her age and are living with her family this summer. They don't know how to swim either.

Chiya wasn't real wild about taking swimming lessons. She wants the good part - to be able to go to a pool and not be scared. She wasn't really isn't looking forward to the tough part though - the lessons. I told her we'd go to an Aquatic Center with slides and a Lazy River after she learns to swim. And that she could bring a friend. She asked if she could bring both her cousins. But they don't know how to swim. You see my dilemma.

The Big Sister program prohibits my spending the amount it would require for lessons for all three girls. I could teach all 3 myself though. Logistics is the issue now - when and where could I do the teaching? That's what I pondered during my walk.

If you know of a pool in the Des Moines area that I could use for this purpose - give me a holler or send me a note! It's important. Everyone needs to know how to swim. Pat Bullock would never forgive me if I didn't do something about this. I'll keep working at it - some area pools have family night on Sundays. I check that out to see how busy the pools are then.

I don't read much non-fiction, but the book I'm reading now is quite interesting - in a religious kinda way. It's "Astonished" by Beverly Donofrio. She's got a sense of humor - and she love, love, loves Jesus momma, Mary. The author wrote the book that eventually turned into the movie "Riding in cars with boys" which starred Drew Barrymore and she's written articles for Oprah Magazine and other publications. While living in a town in Mexico, she was raped by a serial rapist wielding a knife. Flailing for a way to recover from such a devastating even in her life - she searched for a monastery to join.

She said she had a hard time praying to and talking to Jesus, for some reason. She warms up to it though - at one point she enters the chapel and says "Jesus, sweetheart, hi, it's so good to see you darling, bunny love, pumpkin pie." I got a big kick out of that! I decided my prayers are way too sedate! The book is thoughtful and touching - with humor thrown in!

On Friday, my friend Deb and I are off on a big adventure! We were supposed to kayak in NE Iowa and SE Minnesota - but severe flooding as put the kibosh on that idea. So we are taking our bikes and will drink, walk, eat and bike. I can't wait! We're staying at a bed and breakfast in Lanesboro, MN.

Southern Visitors, Monsters U

Paul spoke to our fave farmer (Jeff McFee) this week and he surprised us by taking us up on our offer to come up for a night Friday! Bobbie and Jeff (yes he even brought his wife) arrived about 6 that night and we had a drink on the deck - they helped break in the new furniture - before walking over to Jordan Creek to get a bite to eat at Cheesecake Factory. It was such fun to have them come up. The two were our usual Friday night go-to companions, and we sure miss our get-togethers!

After we ate (I had my usual pear/bleu cheese flat bread - not too heavy) we walked south of the mall, along that little engineered pond. It's pretty along there - it was a pretty evening. We made it an early night because we knew we had a big day planned Saturday. It was such fun catching up on family and Creston news.

It was an early morning Saturday - why? Because
a. we're elderly and can't sleep late and
b. we are hard workers and are used to getting up early

So before 7 a.m. we were headed to our fave hole in the wall breakfast joint - you guessed it, the Waveland. Paul heard me talk about taking my sis Cindo there and he got a hankering for their hashbrowns. I had the 1/4 order of "everything" hashbrowns. So tasty with 1 egg.

Then we were on to the Farmer's Market. I know - it's getting to be a real habit with me! There were some righteous young musicians there that morning - guitar, bass and drums. I'm starting to know what vendors to expect - though each week a few are different. This week again we purchased asparagus, strawberries, and bread. I also decided on a couple knives forged in Waverly - cheese and paring, and some pasta that Cindo and Bonnie told me is delish. On the way back to the car, we walked along the Principal Riverwalk.

When we got back to our place, we headed out on our bikes. Somehow after riding east a ways, we ended up at Wellman's near West Glen - on their terrace, drinking bloody marys eating nachos. The waitress very nice - I gave her varicose vein information, she knew Tracy Purdum - ah Iowa, the smallest world. Next we rode west around the campuses of Wells Fargo and Aviva, ending up at Mavericks patio. It was just a short ride home after that, but we'd gone 10 miles.

It was time for B&J to go home. Jeff had cow to preg check and all that farmer stuff, ya know. Paul and I were heading to church at 4:30, so it was a full day - even if we did only watch TV (the movie The Proposal) that night. We were beat! So much fun hanging out with friends. Why couldn't Creston be 15 miles away instead of 70?

Today I had a date with my little buddy Chiya to see Monsters University. She loved the original movie Monsters Inc. and had mentioned when we saw the Oz movie that she'd like to see this sequel. I'd forgotten what it was like to go to kid movies - the previews are so different than the ones you see at big people movies. They still have little cartoons (you can hardly call them that...can you? because they're art!) before the movies - there were two at Monsters U. I loved them. One was about a snowman and an elk, the other about 2 umbrellas in a rain/wind storm. The animation is fabulous of course.

Chiya laughed out loud at the movie - something I don't hear her do a lot. I loved it! The lady next to me was howling. The movie was pretty cute - and the previews make me want to see the ones coming up. Good thing I have a kid to go with now!

I picked up a book for Chiya when we were out in Colorado recently. There is a great little bookstore near where Cindy lives. I figure with summer vaca, the kid has some time on her hands. When I was her age, I lost myself in books. As we drove back to her place and she looked over the book - Chiya told me she'd do a book report when she was done with it. Ha! Do I look like a school marm? I guess she's not used to just reading for enjoyment...I'll have to work on that with her. Any suggestions appreciated.

My baby has gone south...

After the wedding we had a visitor. No...not really. Amy can't be called a visitor, since she's our kid. But I didn't want to sit around blogging while she was at our house. After Amy left, Cindo and Bonnie arrived. So I'm a bit behind on my writing - and my Aunt Martha texted me to let me know!

Tonight, I'm in Spencer, Iowa - near Iowa's Great Lakes. If you're not from Iowa, you probably don't ever realize we have lakes that are great - natural glacial. I spent some time at the lakes (aka Okoboji) when I was a kid, at my relative's lake place - the Stewarts. Tomorrow - I won't be at the lake. I'll be at City Hall and the landfill. Not quite the same - still, I'll be digging it! Because I love my job.

My workmates - Scott, Jeff and Becky and I all went out to eat with my longtime friend Mary Faber tonight. She lives in Emmetsburg and works here in Spencer. It's always fun the see Mar - one of my fave people. Of course she won the hearts of the staties I was with!

Back to last week. Amy was hanging in WDM with us, preparing for her 5 week trip to South and Central America. She quit her job of 2 years, ready for a new challenge. The kid has been saving her cash, because she works to live - and to her livin' is travelin'! It makes her daddy and me nervous - hell yes. But we don't want her to stop being Amy. We so proud that she is brave enough to travel far and wide, and in this case - by herself for much of the trip. She is a smart traveler, and I tell myself - she could get hit by a bus in Denver, right?

With 2 of my fave peeps

On Monday, I had such a pleasant lunch when Amy and my longtime pal Robyn joined me in the East Village. She was back in Iowa from her home in Florida, visiting her Momma at Heritage House in Atlantic. I'm so pleased she takes time to see me! Such a bonus that Amy was available too! We had lunch at the Continental.

Do I look proud of my girls?

Chiya looks a little scared...we had the owner cook for us - he had a cute giggle!

I ask my Lil Sis Chiya to go out to eat with us at O'Hana's last Tuesday night. I wanted her to meet Amy, because I can't think of a better role model for her. Chiya's Grandma had her all dressed up for the occasion. While she likes Chinese food, I don't think the Japanese fare was her fave - especially when I explained to her that Amy was eating squid. She tried the shrimp appetizer, but Paul quickly got the rest. Amy was the recipient of most of her veggies. Chiya did like the virgin strawberry daiquiris, salad, rice, noodles and sesame chicken. For dessert - a chocolate shake. Amy liked it all - including her Templeton Rye Manhattan.

A couple nights Amy got together with her college pals Rachelle and Jenna. It makes my heart happy to hear those gals laugh so heartily. At one point they took photos downstairs under Paul's antlers - like they were coming out of their heads. Too funny.

All too soon, it was 4 a.m. Thursday - time to take Amy to the airport for her flight. She has texted, emailed and even blogged since she left - so that helps. Amy even met up with a friend of a friend Saturday night, in Cusco Peru, which was nice, because she sounded like she felt a bit down and lonely. The report so far - she loved Machu Picchu. She's in Lima tonight and tomorrow night - I know because she sent me the "where Amy rests her noggin" spreadsheet. I'm not sure I needed to know the names of the hostels she staying in though - like "Supertramp". Sound icky to me...

If you want to keep up on her blog: http://amygizzle.blogspot.com/

Time to get to bed - I have an audit to do tomorrow!

Biker Chick

The Des Moines Bike Collective is Changing Greater Des Moines 2 wheels at a time!
Their Website

That's their motto. It's a non-profit, made up of a bunch of great people who care about bikes and the earth. When I heard about the place, I knew that would be a good option to get Chiya, my Little Sis, a bike, as biking is an activity we'd like to do together. Our new home is right on a bike trail - and there are many miles of trails all around Des Moines.

The first time I looked it up on the Net, the Bike Collective Store was in downtown DSM. Then my co-worker Scott told me they were moving to the East Village near my office. Yay. A couple weeks ago I walked down during lunch and checked the place out - it was still in progress. But the guy behind the counter gave me some good news. If I could get a letter from the Big Sis program people, Chiya could get a bike at no charge!

I spoke to Chiya's grandma Valerie first, before talking to her about a bike. I wanted to make sure Valerie was okay with Chiya having one. She was good with it! So C and I talked about it the weekend before, when we went out for pizza. She seemed enthused about the idea.

Chiya was at a "sleepover" Friday night, so I didn't pick her until 1 p.m. Saturday - when she told me she hadn't gone to sleep until 6 a.m. I'd forgotten about those. We called them slumber parties in my day. The key themes - little sleep, and the first to sleep gets "pranked". Chiya said they threw hot dog chunks on the unlucky gal. We did mean things like put toothpaste on them. Some things don't change...

Despite the party, Chiya seemed pretty alert when we got to the Bike Collective. It was a busy place too - we weren't the only ones with the bike idea, even though it was chilly out. A nice guy helped us pick out a refurbished bike and directed us to a parking lot so C could test ride it. I thought she should check out at least one more bike, but the first one was her fave. Then, because we had the magic letter from Big Sis, they presented Chiya with a helmet, bike chain, head/tail lights and a trail map - all at no charge. What a nice thing for this organization to do for kids!

She was pretty excited, but is hiding it well. The two gentlemen in the background helped us - nice guys!

  To celebrate, we decided to go to Zombie Burger down the street for a shake. First we loaded the bike and other stuff in my car. I had a Smores shake and C had chocolate cake.

She doesn't look too worried that the zombie is going to get her

We were lucky Chiya's grandaddy was in the yard when we got back to her house - he helped us unload the bike. Chiya wanted to know when we were going to go ride our bikes. Guess Paul needs to get that bike rack put on his car! I'm looking forward to hitting the trails soon with her.

Sunday, unfortunately, I must have opened up that crack in my tooth again because hot food gave me a "zing!" I first did it last summer before we went to Cannon Beach and Dr. Dave Buck fixed me up before we left for our vaca. I should have known that he told me to chew on the other side for a reason. I searched our church bulletin for dentists and called one first thing this a.m. I fear there is a root canal and a crown in store for me...

Scenes from lunch today - taken with my new phone camera.


Buffalo fountain on the west steps of the State Capitol

West side of State Capitol

Incredible Time

The pizza was just okay. Early last week, I made a date with my Little Sis Chiya to go to the Urbandale Pizza place Incredible Pizza on Sunday. It's like Chucky Cheese, but for a bit older kids - featuring go-carts, glow in the dark mini golf, mini bowling and bumper cars - along with video games.

I think she was pretty excited to go to Incredible Pizza. I was pleased about that - especially after the art center fiasco the last time we got together - she was way older than the other kids - the rest of them were age 8 and under. We did have some laughs - chuckling at some of the art. We kept walking by this sculpture of this one skinny head that we got a kick out of. I'm rusty at this figuring out activities to do with a 12-year old stuff! It's been a long time since I've had one. After that outing I texted Chiya to say "thanks for being a good sport about today" she messaged me back to say - so nicely, "you're welcome". I thought it was cute.

We got to "Incredible" right at 4 p.m. Sunday when the special price deal started. Only it's not all THAT special since they leave lots of the good video games out of it - so we had to look at a list to see just what we were eligible to play.

Chiya tried to act cool, but I could tell - she wanted to drive the go-carts first. There was only a short wait and we were off!

This pic says it all - look at that grin! She was a speed demon too. The second time she went - later after we ate, she beat everyone!

Chiya - o Andretti

 

We played about everything we were eligible for. And yes, she beat me. Golf, bowling, air hockey, air guitar, bumper cars, video motorcycle races and more. The food wasn't great - but the ice cream with crunchy chocolate chip cookies was the best part.

I'm sitting on a boot

Bumper Cars

I was tired at the end of 2 hours - and the place was getting more crowded and loud! Time for us to make our exit.I always enjoy our drive time as a good time to chat. It's mostly me chatting and her nodding and agreeing. She's always thanks me when I drop her off - she has very good manners!

Chiya gave me a nice "Mother's Day" card - especially for sisters. (I think her Grandma Valerie helped with that.) It was really nice of her. I texted her to thank her and she texted back "!!!" That must be 12 year old speak...
Thanks again to the Big Sis program for allowing me to hang out with my little buddy.

Sports and Art

Our first weekend back has been a busy one! Bobbie and Jeff McFee phoned Friday to say they were coming to the Big City from Crestonia. We met them at Maverick's after Paul got home from work - they beat us there! My former roomie Joanie joined us later and we shared some nachos.

We decided to head to the Original Legends on 60th and Ashworth for supper. Maverick's is just a bit loud for elderly folks like us to chat. B & J's daughter Kim joined us after she got off work. Legends isn't flashy but the food is good. It was nice to catch up with our chums. We had missed McFee's surprise 30th Anniversary Party the night before we left for Florida. -so we got to hear about the big event. Kim and Krissy cleaned the house in case visitors stopped by, and then panicked thinking that might be too obvious...so they messed it up again. Funny.

Saturday Paul and I headed to Ames to the ISU Spring Football Game. The Gridiron Club had a barbecue at noon, so we grabbed sandwiches at that. We heard a rah rah pitch from Coach Paul Rhoads and picked up new football posters. Now I'll have something to look at in my cubicle (besides all of you readers who are in photos I have on my walls). The sun was shining and there was no breeze - fans showed up in force. Only 4 months until the real thing - then we'll fill up both sides of the stadium. My HS classmate Ted Simpson told me Nebraska had 60,000 at their spring games...Don McKim says that's because they don't have television there...

Section B - Row 13 is my spot!

This is the first time we've made a spring game. It was fun - but not nearly as much fun as a real game. All the fans sat on the east side - so we could see our Season Ticket seats West Side in section B from our seats. Paul and Jud (who wasn't able to attend, since he's taking a continuous education course for his job) know all the recruiting and roster information. So Paul especially enjoyed watching the talent. We sat in front of two non-stop talkers who started to drive me crazy. They knew it all! So we located our pals the McKims and made plans to meet later for a beer in the parking lot.

This week I heard the U got wise and refurbished the fountain in the Dairy Industry building. About time! It's only my fave place on the prettiest campus in the country. Okay I might be a bit partial...I did spend four of the best years of my life there. When the 4th quarter rolled around, Paul and I walked to campus to check it out. We had to go on a stealth mission to get in to see the most awesome place on the prettiest campus. It turns out they are still keeping it a secret. The building didn't seem to be officially open.

No problemo for me! I could still be a co-ed. If you don't look at me closely. And you're looking from the back. We found an open door and made our way to the enclosed courtyard. Paul had to hold the door open, so we didn't get sealed in the courtyard forever. But I got my photos!

The cows look so relaxed

I used to study here. Or pretend to.

Paul holds the door

 

 We walked back around central campus. A large man was chopping wood for the forestry department. Some women were doing their native dance near the campanile. I vow to make it back for the parade some year soon.

After a few brewskis in the parking lot with McKims and Ryan's girlfriend Laura's parents, we went downtown to Whiskey River where Kevin and Keri (from Davenport - they tailgate by us) joined us. Diana sat by this weird group - one guy had a stuffed snake on his shoulder. We asked if it was a trouser snake.

Snake guy - just over Dee's shoulder...

Kevin and Keri with Don

 

 Today after church, Paul headed to south to turkey hunt. I had a date with little sis Chiya this afternoon. We went to the Art Center for an Art Sampler event designed for kids to try different art. She was one of the oldest kids, so I was afraid she'd find it a bit lame - but she was a good sport about it.

Since Chiya is in 6th grade, she doesn't have official art class. Doing a project like drawing a still life is a new experience for her. A volunteer tried to explain to her what to do but she was still a bit confused about it. I tried coaching a little. Then I took pics. Volunteers praised her work - that pleased me! There were several other stations that involved gluing, bending wire and more.

The volunteer told her to draw an outline first, then color it in

Look at that concentration!

 

We got to talk to a guy who draws comics for TV - he showed us how to draw faces. Artists are amazing - how skillfully they move their pens to create. We also watched a couple people spinning pottery - so cool. Chiya seemed especially interested in that.

Last we had to look at 3 pieces of art in the galleries to describe what season each made us think of. The Art Center is a hodgepodge and they were hard to find even with a map! Chiya and I laughed at several pieces...I don't think that's what the artist had in mind. I hope she enjoyed the day - I know I did!

No turkey for Pablo. The gobblers are safe this season. That guy needs to kill something...

Shellfish

I'm a selfish old broad. I didn't realize how much I'd enjoy this "Big Sis" thing until I got matched with a little Sis - Chiya. She has no idea! And I've only been in the program a few weeks so far. Yeah, I know there are bound to be some bumps along the way. Kids (and their adults) are like that. Mine (and I) were. But it's so fun to have a little buddy to think about again!

On my trip to Florida I texted a photo of my favorite view (off the deck at our Marco Island condo) to Chiya one day. Just so she knew where I was. It's fun to text her periodically - and she texts me too, to see how my week is going.

This year was exceptionally good for shelling in sunny Florida. It's been a while since I paid much attention to shells. Mom was a big sheller. She had a book and would look up what they were. I believe Cindo has it now. But I have all the shells I need!

Amy and Jud's first Marco trip

When the kids were young and we would visit Marco Island, Mom and Dad were on a mission. They would help Amy and Jud find a shell for each of their pre-school classmates. Then we would write each of their names on a shell with a sharpie and seal it with special spray. Then we'd put the shells on the deck to dry. The kids were so proud to give each mate a shell upon their return. It was a fun project for the kids and grandparents.

I decided it would be fun to bring home some shells for Chiya from this trip. Each day the ocean gods deposited gobs of them on the beach for our pleasure. A few still had little creatures in them...I was careful not to take those! So during our walks I spent some time looking down for treasures.

One day during our beach walk, I lagged behind my best buddies Paul and Cindo to take some photos and to just take in the beauty of the beach. Sometimes when we power walk I forget to do that. I gazed down at the piles of shells, and thought about how they are so similar to people. Some were beautiful and complete, others broken down. There were large groups piled together and others were all by themselves - loners. Some - broken, yes, were still beautiful. I picked up certain shells that looked perfect, only to find out they were flawed. Yes...shells can be compared to humans. (And some have scary creatures inside - ick!)

I hope Chiya likes the shells I selected for her. And the birding book I got her at a book sale for $.50. If not - oh well! She can give them away. Perhaps just the idea that someone was thinking of her will be enough. It is for me!