Writer, foodie, single chick ... in Fort Myers

Return to Paradise

noreply@blogger.com (Athena) — Sun, 27 Dec 2009 23:57:00 +0000

Had great fun in Indy/La Porte/Michigan City/South Bend/Carmel ... etc etc. I was on the road nearly every day seeing family and friends, just glad to return to my peaceful Florida home.

Was able to spend time with so many people in such a short amount of time is nothing short of a miracle. Next trip I believe I'll stay "put" somewhere and do my visiting from there. I'm exhausted and talked out. May become mute for a day or so.

Received some unexpected Christmas wishes from Tony ... good to hear from him.

Thinking about the upcoming week -- lots to do with laundry (boatloads), house organization (double boatloads) and tax preparation on the list for the coming week. Seeing sunshine will be the highlight of my return after 5 days of no sun, only snow, sleet, rain and gloom.

I miss my kitties.

Miss Mary, Lee and the kiddos. Miss my "home" in Florida -- growing more and more like home each day.

Time to return to paradise. I cannot wait.

Christmas Day

noreply@blogger.com (Athena) — Sat, 26 Dec 2009 04:39:00 +0000

I can say without reservation that today was the nicest Christmas Day I have ever had as an adult.

Typically my Christmas Day would revolve around visiting various family and friends (all lovely and a wonderful time) but never really staying put in one place for any length of time. Since yesterday (C.E.) around 4 o'clock, I've been in Indy (Carmel, specifically) hanging out at Sister and Boy Wonder's house.

Some highlights from today:

Sister got Boy Wonder an ESPN Sports Center ornament that he absolutely loves. It plays the theme music and she didn't know it played music at all. This was played over and over as we opened gifts and became a source of great amusement.

Boy Wonder's Brother opened a gift today with the announcement: "I love it, what is it?" We have laughed over this repeatedly all day.

Sister received beautiful jewelry from Boy Wonder for Christmas.

Boy Wonder received Superman PJs which were promptly modeled for all.

Mom loved her computer. She hugged it about ten times at least.

I received a gift that is priceless beyond measure. Mom passed along to me her mom's cookbook, filled with her notes on various receipes and whatnot. I cried as I opened it, as the gift was marked from "Grandma Lemons" which has been 18 years since I received a gift from her (She passed 17 years ago, October). I still tear up thinking of it.

It was a wonderful day.

Tomorrow is more family and a trip to Target with CCM. Cannot wait to see her!

Christmas Eve

noreply@blogger.com (Athena) — Fri, 25 Dec 2009 04:48:00 +0000

Sitting in Sister and Boy Wonder's quiet house, looking at the glow of the trees as I begin to nestle in for a few days.

The past few days have been a whirlwind, what with family and friend visits each day. I've been really blessed to spend quality visit time with all involved and have enjoyed seeing everyone so much. Some highlights of the trip have included seeing young Nathan walk so steadily and getting the sweetest little hug ever at the end of my visit there today. Just thinking of it brings tears to my eyes ... it was super sweet. Having Madison call me "Aunt Athena" today instead of "Layla" (her previous nickname for me) was lovely, and hearing her speech improved so much over a few months is just amazing.

Time with my cousin K and her four kiddos was wonderful as always. The oldest is 17 now, super tall, so handsome and seems to have a real plan for his life in place. He wants to be a teacher or work with computers -- while the 14 year olds are consumed by girls, working out and video games. The youngest, Miss E, is 8 going on 18, but so lovable and sweet. I hugged on her incessantly ... I miss her so much.

Sharkboy, ever the card, amused me by asking me last night if I was going to sleep with his mom and dad that night. He had noted that it was slick out (ice storm) and apparently thought I ought to stay the night. His question brought gales of laughter for all the right reasons and I must say I am still giggling about it today.

As for friends, I was able to see the Sharkfamily, the Electrician and Ark. All good visits, all just what I needed. Thanks Sharkfamily, for delicious pizza and beer. Long Live Cow and Cocoa Stout. I will find the Yuengling Black and Tan in Florida and have it ready for your arrival, Jay. Can't wait to see you in January.

I also spent some time with Grandma -- age 91 this year. Each time I see her I think she's littler and more frail, but she keeps plugging along. She's made of tough stuff, that one.

The nicest surprise I received though was a call from Mary and Lee's kiddos wishing me a Merry Christmas and telling me that they loved me. I miss you guys. Looking forward to seeing you all soon.

******************
I'm not sure what this all means for the new year. All these wonderful kids, all so important in my life. It makes that biological clock tick a little louder, a little stronger than I expected it to, that is for sure. Makes me rethink the whole "giving up on having kids" thing ... especially after this morning's discussion with Ark. So many things to think about ... and nothin' but my time to do it.

Day 1, Christmas Break

noreply@blogger.com (Athena) — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 12:06:00 +0000

Yes, it is official. I am on Christmas Break.

I've never, in all my years of working, taken two weeks off. Even in HS, I always worked during Christmas Break, so this will be the first Christmas Break I've had since, well, I'm thinking 9th grade or so? Seriously, can it be that long?

As I lie here in the bed, listening to Caesar snore (yes, my kitty snores), I'm thinking of all the things I'm thankful for this holiday season.

I'm thankful for these two weeks off, so I can visit friends and family without worry and concern about what I'm missing at work. The answer is: nothing. I am missing nothing at work. This is a slice of heaven.

I'm thankful for the funds I saved to go back home and enjoy myself. I'm not wealthy by any means but I have enough to go and enjoy my stay.

I'm thankful for my family and friends -- I'm so richly blessed with some of the coolest people around.

I'm thankful for the Christmas bonus I received from work. In these times of economic hardship, I'm thankful that my employer is frugal enough to ensure my holidays are blessed with this economic good fortune.

****************
This weekend was wonderful. It wasn't anything like I'd planned earlier in the week, when I still believed that Rugby and I would be spending the weekend together. It ended up better though ... because:

I was able to spend quality time with Mary, Lee and kiddos, not to mention Mary's parents.

I found the PERFECT patio furniture on clearance at Target and bought it, assembled it and napped on it with the kittens yesterday afternoon.

I finished quite a few errands, which was a huge relief.

I was able to give a four year old and nine year old huge BIG fun at the dollar store -- and enjoyed every minute of it.

I used my down comforter on the bed last night and was happy, cozy and warm ... with aforementioned snoring kittens surrounding me.

Life is good.

A good night ...

noreply@blogger.com (Athena) — Fri, 18 Dec 2009 02:30:00 +0000

Tonight was fabulous for three reasons:

1) I was able to see a friend from Cottey and her husband for dinner tonight. They've been working in the area for a few weeks but we've had clashing schedules. Luckily enough, tonight worked and it was wonderful.

2) My cousin K was "pinned" tonight as a nurse. After a few long years of nursing school and not just a few tears, she graduated tonight. My heart is so full for her. Tomorrow would have been her Dad's birthday and I know he is looking down on her with such pride.

3) On the way home from dinner, Mary's kids (2 out of the 4, anyway) were texting me on the ride home. They are fabulous kiddos and I love hearing from them. Cannot wait to see them on Saturday.

More thoughts ...

noreply@blogger.com (Athena) — Thu, 17 Dec 2009 17:31:00 +0000

Last night was good. Went out for a beverage after work with Mary and Lee to celebrate a recent, much-hoped-for, unexpected blessing. It's not my place to say what it is (as it is personal to them) but suffice to say I was delighted to share in the toasting to good fortune.

The original plan was for Mary and I to have a beverage to alleviate my sore heart. As I said to Lee last night, it was much nicer to toast to joy than pain.

I've been thinking about this whole thing with Rugby. I guess I'm most upset with myself, as I let myself fall for someone so clearly undeserving of me. I was drawn into his life because I found him interesting, funny, attractive and different from what I've dated before. I thought he was as into me as I was to him ... and perhaps, at one time, that was true. I'll never know. What I do know is this: although I am hurt by his actions, I cannot change them/nor him, so I must accept what is and move on.

Anger, disappointment, frustration

noreply@blogger.com (Athena) — Wed, 16 Dec 2009 13:52:00 +0000

There are only a few things in this world which make me so angry I could become a quivering mass of rage.

One is lying.

Lying, to me, just says that you believe I am stupid enough to believe whatever story you concoct. Whether it be a small lie or big, I'd much rather have the unvarnished truth than try to figure out what is real and what is not.

Such is the case with a guy who will not be named. Suffice to say that I pulled the truth out of him and then discovered later that the truth had been around much longer than what was stated. Then I find that he seems to be "congratulating" himself on telling the truth to me. Fact: I asked, he didn't offer.

So I'm stone cold pissed. So pissed I no longer want this person in my life.

I give trust at 100% from the get-go. However, once trust is lost (and believe me, his is lost), I don't grant it back easily.

So many thoughts ... swirling.

noreply@blogger.com (Athena) — Wed, 16 Dec 2009 00:52:00 +0000

Ever had a few days of ass-kicking in a row? This week has been just that -- kicking my ass, taking my name and leaving me a quivering mess of emotions. All that has happened is not for public consumption, but suffice to say three separate events in three days have left me confused, hurt, troubled, sad and more than a little lonely.

The good news of late? Christmas break is just a few very short days away and soon I will have two weeks of thoughtful, restful time. I need it. I'm ready for it.

That and a text tonight from the Sharkfamily speaking of my favorite beer and a date for consumption of said beer set -- well, that was just what I needed. Refocus on the positive, accept life for what it is and face tomorrow with a heart filled with hope.

The Christmas week is looking a lot like this:

Dec 19 -- Beach, errands
Dec 20 -- trip to Stans? or pool
Dec 21 -- errands, haircut, pack
Dec 22 -- leave FM, arrive Indy, p/u rental car, drive to LP and MC. Visit with family/friends.
Dec 23 -- more family/friend visits in LP, beverages with Sharkfamily at dinner
Dec 24 -- bfast with my friend Ark, return to Indy, see Marine for his bday, family time
Dec 25 -- family time
Dec 26 -- shopping in a.m. with CCM, then family time
Dec 27 -- more family time, return to FM

Dec 28 - Jan 3 -- house stuff, tax stuff, food & beverages with friends.

Only a few more days ... then two weeks. I am ready. This has been one hell of a semester.

Back at it.

noreply@blogger.com (Athena) — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 15:58:00 +0000

Another weekend gone ... Christmas lurking just around the corner.

Sister and Boy Wonder were here this weekend. We went to the beach and saw family. Introduced them to Rugby at dinner on Friday.

I'm ready for Christmas break. I'm exhausted, weary, bone-tired, all the words that adequately and accurately describe being as close to mental-death as possible. In the past three months, I've put together nearly $5M worth of grant funding and now my brain is all done. Ready for two weeks off.

Yes, dear friends, I've landed in the lap of luxury. This fantastic college that I work for closes for two weeks at Christmas. Closes. Yes, you heard me right.

I will be visiting friends and family the first week and the second week is devoted to getting my taxes in order, cleaning out boxes and hauling the last of the "stuff" to the storage bin.

The Mountain will have to come to Mohammed

noreply@blogger.com (Athena) — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 13:40:00 +0000

I'm sure all of you have heard the tale of Mohammed and the Mountain. I related this to my Mom this morning as we were talking. She was telling me about the snow that was on the ground, the sleet that was coming down and the general icyness of the roads. You might imagine that none of this appealed to me and you would be right.

I told her that Mohammed had come to the Mountain enough times, it was time for the Mountain to come to Mohammed. Also, I wasn't moving back to that hot, err, cold mess of weather.

Mom has lived in La Porte County her entire life. I cannot even fathom it -- but then again I've lived in five counties in my entire life (La Porte, Vernon (MO), Marion (IN), Hamilton (IN) and Lee (FL)) -- and too damn many addresses to count rationally.

***********

Sister and Boy Wonder arrive on Thursday. I can hardly contain my joy, cannot wait to see them both. I saw them last at the end of September when I was home for Lu. Friday will likely be spent poolside, followed by dinner with Rugby, then Saturday -- Bradenton Beach, followed by a trip to Dad's to celebrate his birthday. Sunday -- the birthday celebration, then return to FM.

I've made Boy Wonder's favorite cookies for him, as well as goodies for Sister too. I need to get them an Edison State tote to take home for all the goodies. :)

Rugby and I have had a couple more dates ... the more I get to know him, the more I like him. He's a good egg.

Dating ...

noreply@blogger.com (Athena) — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 18:06:00 +0000

Dates 7, 8, 9 and 10 took place this weekend. Date 7 was talking over Dairy Queen after he'd had a hard day, Date 8 was another wine tasting, followed by dinner on Thursday, Date 9 was a trip to the Sandy Parrot/Blu Sushi for dinner/drinks with Mary, Lee and Mary's parents. Date 10 involved seeing a movie (Brothers) and having pizza.

A little about him ... 37, father of two sons (10 & 14), lives in Cape Coral (the town next to Ft. Myers), works as tech support for the local internet/phone company. Smart, funny, interesting. Shall be referred to as "Rugby" for the purposes of this blog.

It is interesting ... dating. After things with Jason and I ended this summer, I turned inward, a bit, trying to figure out what it is I want. It wasn't an acrimonous ending, it was just clear that he was in Indy (and staying there) and I was in Florida (and staying here), therefore making dating a challenge and not just kinda. Add to the fact that it was clear it wasn't "going anywhere" period and there was no real reason to hang on, except, perhaps for me not wanting to hurt him. I know *I* was hurt but realized the inevitable and as such, took some time to think it all through.

It is four years this month that my divorce was final. It seems like yesterday in some ways, as I remember filing the paperwork so clearly ... and receiving it in the mail even more clearly. It was right at that time that I bought my bed (love it still ...) and my bedroom stuff, as I had been making do with the twin beds I had from the guest room of my old house. I remember bringing in the mail (I was in La Porte at the time), sitting on my chair and opening it all ... when the last letter was from the Marion County Clerk. It was obvious what it was, and I'll never forget my hands shaking as I opened the official notification that my marriage was over. I had gotten my bed a few days before and immediately crawled into it, boo hoo'ing into the sheets over what might have been and what never would be. I just remember lying in bed, staring at the ceiling, watching the sun's shadow trace over the ceiling, then the walls, then to darkness.

So dating is a challenge for me. I want to be strong, be brave, be willing to give and receive love in my life, but ... I remain scared of that bone-wrenching, gut-twisting, soul-killing pain I felt as all ended with Hex.

I remain focused on the positive with Rugby. He does wonderful things for me (always opening my car door for me, and closing it too) and is an interesting person to get to know. I'll keep you posted, as always.

Mildly cranky with a side of pissy.

noreply@blogger.com (Athena) — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 18:12:00 +0000

Ever wake up some mornings and just feel, well, pissy? Pissy at the world, pissy at yourself, pissy at your clothes, just in general piss-tacular?

That is me today.

I am planning to go to graduation here (a couple of coworkers are graduating and I am being supportive) and as such, had to go get measured for my cap and gown. I pray I don't look like a dork. But I will. Because my sash/tassel will be turquoise. Yeah, SPEA!

I have a date tonight with a new guy. Date 6. Yes, I am counting them. All have been good dates so far, he is quite a gentleman and makes me laugh. I am hoping he brings me out of my funk. We are going to a wine tasting tonight that a friend is hosting. Should make for good discussion fodder on the way home.

I'm kinda tired, feel bloated and want to just lie under my desk and take a nap. That appears to be frowned upon though.

Harumph.

Sliding into December at Record Speeds

noreply@blogger.com (Athena) — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 14:52:00 +0000

WTF happened to November? I mean, really? Aside from a trip to DC, family visits and five days spent in bed, praying for my own survival, the month was super-short.

Colts are 11-0. Happy Days.

Getting ready for Christmas, lots to wrap up and ship out. Need to get into my gift closet and get the stuff ready to get out of here.

Sister and Boy Wonder arrive next Thursday night. Gotta work on getting Friday the 11th off work for playtime.

Living is, well, relative.

noreply@blogger.com (Athena) — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 12:53:00 +0000

Yes, I'm alive.

Spending upwards of 16 hours a day in bed alive. Leaving work mid-day to take a nap alive. Thanking-God-Every-Day-Antibiotics-Exist Alive.

My biggest fear out of this whole hot mess of infection was that I'd end up with pneumonia. I am still hacking disgusting, unspeakable things. When I talk too much or attempt to laugh, I end up with a coughing fit that sounds like the end stages of emphysema. People back away from me when I start that. I can't say I blame them.

On the plus side, I actually went out for dinner last night. I know this seems like something I do often (and it is) but since I arrived back from DC I've been spending every possible hour in bed. So being out in public was a Very Big Deal to me.

I go to my favorite Italian place -- Mona Lisa's. It isn't much, a strip-mall Italian restaurant next to an Office Depot and a Thai place. Looks average from the outside.

The inside ... still pretty average, except for the blessing (!) from Pope Benedict for the restaurant. Yep, old school Catholic Italians. These are my people -- if I were Italian or Catholic, that is.

They make a dish there that makes my heart sing with joy and happiness. It is called the Chicken Mona Lisa. Boneless skinless chicken breasts covered with buffalo mozzarella, spinach, mushrooms, sundried tomatoes and a lemon-butter white wine sauce. Served with some steamed veggies (last night was broccoli, zucchini and yellow squash) and a bowl of pasta on the side. This makes for two very good meals, as I always take half home. I have tried to finish it all once and ended up with a bellyache. A damn fine bellyache, but a lesson learned nonetheless.

Last night, though, I wanted dessert. I wanted their tiramisu. I love tiramisu. Good tiramisu is hard to find, much like good biscuits and gravy, good Italian beef sandwiches and good pizza. There has to be a certain kind of magic used and most places don't have it.

Turns out they were out of it. They make it themselves (of course) and they were out. I have been chasing this elusive tiramisu since I got here.

The owner, Joe, had stopped by my table earlier. Yes, I've become a regular at this place, I can't help but enjoy each and every time I come there. We talked for a few minutes, I told him I loved his food and that I enjoyed coming in.

So ... Joe found me some tiramisu. I have no idea where it came from, only that "it wasn't theirs" but he hoped I'd enjoy it.

and I did.

And if theirs is as good or better than that one, I'm gonna marry into that family. Damn skippy, that was good tiramisu.

She lives!

noreply@blogger.com (Athena) — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 19:17:00 +0000

I spent my last few days in DC in a miserable phlem-coated nightmare of depravity. Yes, I managed to catch a severe upper respiratory infection (that I am still fighting today).

To highlight just how bad I felt: I willingly laid on the floor at the Atlanta airport. Yes, me. Yes, floor. Yes, floor of the busiest airport in the world. No, my germ-phobeness didn't overtake me, I felt so bad I was certain I was going to kick off anyway.

I am still wheezing, coughing and phlemy as all get-out, but day 3 on antibiotics makes me a much happier person. I don't think I'm going to die of this now, which is a comfort compared to Friday when I thought it was a possibility.

I don't remember ever being this sick in recent memory.

DC was fabulous, as always, although the constant rain/wind brought on by the remnants of Hurricane Ida-turned-nor'easter was vicious and unpleasant. I was so glad to see sunshine again.

Spent my birthday in bed, except for a trip to the Dr's then a trip later to the pharmacy. Slept 18 of the 24 hours. Sunday was not much different although I went out to the beach with Mary and 3 of the 4 kiddos. It was nice to sit in the sun. I was hoping it would bake some of this crap out of me.

Today has been spent getting laundry done and cleaning up a bit from the trip. Tonight is a trip to see Stephen King in Sarasota for his Under the Dome booktour. I am crazy excited to see him.

Until then ... a good nap and some more meds. Celebrate the b-day next weekend ...

in DC

noreply@blogger.com (Athena) — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 12:13:00 +0000

I'm in DC this week for work -- first shmoozing, then a conference.

There is nothing quite like this city -- especially for a political junkie like me. I was here last in January 2009 for the Inauguration. An incredible trip, full of hope (not cliched, truly, optimism was in the air), joy and new beginnings. Like any relationship, really ;)

************

Yesterday was harder for me than I realized it would be.

I've never been here over a Veterans' Day, just always knew certain activities happened here that day and that was that. Seeing the scores of veterans here was incredible and moving. Yesterday marked the first time the WWII memorial had a wreath-laying ceremony, five years after the memorial opened. There were dozens of WWII veterans here ... all wearing some insignia of where they served, what branch of service they were in, etc. It was the moment I laid eyes on the Pearl Harbor veteran, in his wheelchair, that I think the waterworks really kicked in. I thanked him for his service ... and as we walked down the mall towards the Smithsonian Metro station I remained amazed at the history, knowledge and sacrifice that this man has seen.

A few minutes before encountering this man, I was asked a question by my coworker, Doc, and his friend, Joe, about why Vietnam Veterans greet each other with "Welcome Home."

This stunned me and let me explain why.

Both of these men have been involved in politics for years. Both have served for various House members in the Florida Legislature. Both have worked for members with ties to Veterans Affairs in Florida.

WTF?

As a child of a Vietnam Veteran I was heartbroken. As a member of the VFW Auxilary and American Legion Auxilary, I was heartbroken. As a student of history and politics, I was heartbroken.

For the uninitated, the term "Welcome Home," often used by Vietnam Veterans to greet each other, refers to the poor treatment they often received after returning home from Vietnam. Spit on, called baby killers or worse, and generally reviled, many of these veterans immediately changed from their uniforms into civilian clothes immediately upon entering the United States. Only their brothers in arms, fellow Vietnam Veterans, knew of the heartbreak and sacrifice that these men had seen. Thus, the term "Welcome Home" was nearly unheard of, except when used by fellow Vietnam Veterans.

Contrast this treatment to the treatment WWII veterans received -- parades, honors and tears of joy. You can see why Vietnam Veterans often consider each other their true brothers, as only they know what they've been through.

To paraphrase a quote ... when we forget our history, we are doomed to repeat it.

New blogs ...

noreply@blogger.com (Athena) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 16:11:00 +0000

Added some stuff for your reading pleasure:

Giant Butters -- happened to run across this one a few days ago. Used to be known as The Cherry Ride and now has changed cities, lives and career choices. I was lucky enough to meet him last year on the Bag Lady Bus Tour.

Texts From Last Night/Emails from Crazy People -- both provide me with endless hours of laughter. We've all sent the crazy text/email. Now read what others are texting.

PostSecret -- a longtime fave. Check it out.

DCBlogs -- because I love all things DC.

Ruth Holliday -- good blog for all things Indy/Indiana. Former writer for the Indianapolis Star.

I can haz cheeseburger -- I love LOLs.

My Frugal Adventures -- because I'm a total cheapass and love knowing this stuff.

Enjoy!

Pinot Grigio = one dry mouth

noreply@blogger.com (Athena) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 16:02:00 +0000

Great googly moogly, I ought to know better. I mean, really, I'll be 36 years old in a manner of days but still, still, still I believe I am bullet-proof when it comes to wine.

Pino Grigio was the killer of last night. I had buckets (okay, glasses that were remarkably like buckets) of wine and lo and behold, this morning I have dry mouth like a MF.

Sahara Desert-like, you ask -- nay. Nay. The Sahara is the freaking ocean compared to the interior of my mouth today.

Famous last words: "Sure, I'll have one more." (you dumbass!)

Weird reoccurring dreams

noreply@blogger.com (Athena) — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 15:47:00 +0000

A post the other day on my cousin's facebook status made me wonder something -- does anyone else have weird reoccurring dreams? The same dream, over and over ... same outcome, etc?

I have one, with three variations on the same theme.

a) I missed my math final and I am going to fail my math class.
b) I somehow forgot I actually *had* a math class and now have to take the final completely unprepared.
c) I know I have a math class, I've been skipping it all semester and now I have to take my math final.

For the record, same teacher in all three scenarios -- Mrs. Gondor, tenth grade geometry. She is always the math teacher in this dream, and it always has to do with me not going to graduate from college. I always wake up, heart pounding, scared out of my mind and frantic.

Why Mrs. Gondor? Hell, I don't know. I actually *liked* geometry -- to this day the only math class I've found useful, aside from the basics of addition, subtraction, multiplication and division.

So what about you? Any weird reoccurring dreams? What are they?

I Know Royalty!

noreply@blogger.com (Athena) — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 16:07:00 +0000

Almost forgot (Heaven Forfend!)

Halle Pino was crowned Queen of the Bag Ladies on Saturday night. Halle is a great friend and most deserving of the honor.

I only wish I had been there to see it happen!!!

(for more info on the Bag Ladies, please see http://www.indyprideinc.com/ )
Love to you, Ms. Spicy ... xoxoxoxxo

Nonsense, happenings and DC!

noreply@blogger.com (Athena) — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 15:19:00 +0000

Most importantly: on Sunday I fly out to DC for a week. I am SO excited :) Good news: seeing PM from Ivy, bad news: possibly bringing a winter coat. It is still boxed from the move!

This weekend was lovely, had lots to do and just generally did whatever my heart desired. Life of Riley and all that.

Friday night was spent in the company of Mary and Lee, at their house, with the kiddos. Between Mary and I, three bottles of wine were consumed and a couple of beers over the course of seven hours. Needless to say, I was quite delighted when Lee made up the sofabed for me -- I cashed out nearly immediately. It was 2:30 a.m. and we'd be talking since 7:30. Bright and early the next morning (7 a.m.ish), the youngest kiddo (C -- age 4) wakes me up by asking me if he can have candy now (as it was Halloween). I crack open one eye, attempting to figure out where I am/who is talking to me/and why does the voice sound like a kid when I realize where I am, tell him candy is for after breakfast and make my escape.

Did lots of household chores on Saturday -- planted some herbs and veggies, swept, dusted, cleaned tile floors. Saturday night was a trip up to Dad and Stepmom's house for dinner/hang out.

Went to Dad's favorite Chinese place for dinner and then we attempted to go out for a beer. The local bar we went to had some guy yodeling (okay, singing, poorly) so one beverage later, we were on our way. I doubt we were there thirty minutes.

Sunday was spent hanging out with them, making a run to IKEA, then back to FM for laundry doings. Before calling it a night, I met Mary for a beverage at the Sandy Parrot and was back at home by 8.

Last night was spent finishing my book, getting the rest of the laundry done and starting to think about my trip to DC. Lots to pack, lots to think about.

Last time I was there was January 2009, for the inauguration and the resounding memory of that trip is hoping to God my toes weren't frostbitten off. Brrrrrrrrrrrr. This time I'll spend some time in the botanical gardens and museum of American History on Sunday ... then dinner with Mary and Doc (another coworker who will be there that week). Count on beverages to be consumed.

Vampire Edition (or adventures in bloodletting)

noreply@blogger.com (Athena) — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 13:25:00 +0000

I've given blood the past three years. I decided, shortly after I turned 33, to not be a big wussy any more, confront my fear of needles and give blood on a regular basis. As I have plenty of friends/family in healthcare/EMS professions, I know the importance of giving blood.

Yesterday, however, was the first time I've ever given blood with the Mad Hatter, a witch, Dorothy (of Wizard of Oz), Chucky (of horror movie fame), a nerd and a surgeon.

There was a blood drive at the college and apparently all of our EMS students were given extra credit by their instructor if they dressed up for Halloween. The instructor came as a giant chicken.

Anyhoo, I think I'm going to back off the bloodletting wagon for awhile.

The last two times I've nearly passed out after giving. I get all sweaty, feel my eyes going crossed and end up on the floor, with my feet over my head. While this is mildly amusing to all who witness this event, it isn't my idea of a good time. Yesterday involved lying on the floor of my office, feet up on a box that was under my desk. This is not the most professional of appearances, trust.

My mother and my sister find this absolutely hysterical.

I do not. I just feel stupid.

And one pint low ...

South Florida 'pace'

noreply@blogger.com (Athena) — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 12:49:00 +0000

The transition from Indy to Fort Myers has been overall good, with moments in time where I am incredulous at the differences between the two places and I'm not talking geography.

The 'pace' is one of those things.

South Florida's pace is slow. Reaaaaaaaaal slow at times. I have to check my tendencies toward "wtf" fairly often down here. In the grocery store, I could be in line a half-hour, with only one person ahead of me, because the cashier and the customer ahead of me are having a conversation about people that they might know ... and how they are related, how big the kids are getting, don't the tourists seem to be here earlier this year and on and on. Then, if you are to wonder if these two people knew each other, the answer is no. They might know some of the same people, might live in the same area code or might just have wanted to be chatty that day. Oh yeah, this is life down here.

Meanwhile, my popsicles are dripping, milk is getting warm and I am losing what is left of my mind.

Not one single person down here is in a hurry to do anything. If you are in a hurry, give up. You will be thwarted at every turn. Your patience is too limited to be in a hurry down here.

So I'm learning patience. Adapting. Adjusting. Slowly.

Ain't nothin' goin' on but the rent

noreply@blogger.com (Athena) — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 18:00:00 +0000

I've been reading a lot lately, nothing of serious note except for The Lost Symbol. If you are a Dan Brown fan, I recommend, otherwise ... it would make no sense at all to you.

Thinking about my upcoming trip to DC -- would love to see some of the places mentioned, must add that to my visit.

Still enjoying the Hot Damn cds. Still smiling when I think of Stan's.

So far the winter visitation schedule looks like this:

January: Sharkboy's dad, perhaps Marine.
February: Mom, Sister, Cousin K and Cousin B
March: CCM, former coworker T and her daughter

I'm sure there will be more as time goes by. Who can resist sunny 70s when faced with wind-chill, snow and ice?

Hot Damn and Stan's ... a match made in heaven

noreply@blogger.com (Athena) — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 15:36:00 +0000

(picture 1, note plastic "butt" shorts and bikini t-shirt, worn by a man and the flamingo hat worn by the female, picture 2, note flamingo hat and bikini t-shirt. See below for explanation.)

As all great adventure stories start, it was a random suggestion at a table full of fun people, made half in jest.

Then it became serious.

It was Friday night, I was at the Sandy Parrot (a local wateringhole of pleasant reputation) with Mary, Mary's husband, Lee, and Mary's mom, Carrie. We were talking about fun little places to explore, and my love of the random road trip, when Lee suggested we get in our cars and head, immediately, for a place called Stan's in Goodland, FL. Once it was determined that Stan's could potentially be closed for the night (it was 7 then, but we'll get to that in a moment), Lee suggested a road trip for Saturday. Carrie dropped out of the fun, but the three of us left were to meet at Lee and Mary's house around 10:30 or so on Saturday morning.

I had woken up fairly early on Saturday morning -- around 7 or so, took a walk around the neighborhood then went to breakfast at FirstWatch. Came home, read the paper a bit, started laundry. Happened to look at my phone, realized it was 10:10 and I wasn't even in the neighborhood of being ready. I called Lee & Mary and reported I'd be there by 11. All good.

I get there about 10:50, freshly showered, bag packed, mind ready for adventure. Mary is still getting ready at this point (no big deal to me) and Lee hands me a beer. It was at this point I knew the day would be most excellent. Ice Cold Beer on the start of a roadtrip always portends good adventure.

We had a couple of errands to run first ... dropping off items to both of their Moms (coupons to one, tickets for the Commodores to the other) and away we go in the convertible, zipping down I-75. Sunshine, glorious sunshine and laughter were our guides.

We make it to Stan's at about 1:30 or so ... and hear live music as we arrive. Stan's is best described as a funky little small-town bar with a great following. It sits on the edge of the Everglades, has a tin roof (in parts), two stages and about 60-ish tables overall. The crowd was light on Saturday, about 60 people or so all day, coming and going with boats, cars and jetskis in attendance all day. One particularly unfortunate man on a jetski reminded me of the Chris Farley skit "fat man in a little coat" as the life jacket he wore would not keep him afloat if it was paid overtime.

The music of the day was provided by Hot Damn, a husband/wife duo out of Maine, who happened upon this place some winters ago and are now a fixture. They play damn near anything, with some definite leanings towards country music, which didn't bother me a bit.

Picture this: wooden deck, metal roof, license plates as decor, kitch for days, live music, dancing and buckets of beer under a warm October sky. Truly heaven, if you've got any sense at all.

The hours rolled by and the beer continued to taste as if it were made just for us. We laughed, told stories, enjoyed the hell out of the whole experience. As all good things must come to an end, so did Stan's. Yes, it is true, Stan's closes at 7 p.m. in the "summer" (winter hours start in November -- then open until ???) and I bought some CDs for my listening enjoyment later (all three are fabulous, btw).

One especially interesting thing to note ... next door to Stan's is a shop called The Island Woman, which sells all manner of tschotches, nonsense and whatnot, and was the store that Lee suggested I do all my Christmas shopping at for the northern relatives. The pictures included in this post are of some of the 'treasures' found at the Island Woman. Please let me know if you cannot live without any of these items, as I'm sure Stan's will become a favorite of mine in short order.

Apparently Sunday is the day that Stan's becomes out-of-control outrageous, as it is a well-known destination for local bikers. From what I could tell (60+ tables, two stages and plenty of madness), Sunday must be seen to be believed. I think a Monday off work will need to be in order for a Sunday adventure.