Hey y'all!
Whaaaazzzzzzzzz up? I know, I know, it's been two years since last I posted. I hope it still remembers my peeps addresses. Well, today I was released from my calling at church. It would have been 5 years in September. That's a long time. It's a weird feeling to be released from Relief Society President. It's like your daughter marrying a good man. You know she'll be loved, but you know you'll miss caring for her. When I was called I was nervous and felt completely inept. I didn't know the young girls names and there was just sooo much to keep up with. Five years later, I could do it in my sleep. I knew about a month or two ago when I looked across the chapel and saw my replacement. The Spirit whispered, "She's your new Relief Society President." I was like, "Wait. What? Ohhhhh, okay. Times up." I like the new president. She couldn't be less like me if she tried. She is quiet, reserved and has a very gentle spirit. Her counselors are just like her. All four of them are the cream of the crop and heavy hitters. I'm very excited to see what they do. My sisters deserve them. I will miss terribly the weekly association of my counselors and my secretary. I will miss having the authority to run to a sisters side to comfort her. I will not miss knowing everyone's back story or how one sister doesn't care for another sister. I learned so much about myself in this calling. I learned to love everyone, no matter where they are on the road of life. I learned that EVERYONE has had pain in their life and has suffered something. I learned that a righteous group of women can move mountains. I learned to never judge a book by it's cover and that I am stronger than I thought I was. I was sad to learn that I am intimidating. (Me? Really?) I learned to trust the Lord more, to listen to The Spirit more and to love and forgive more. I tried desperately to teach my children that service was a joy and not a burden. I tried to teach them that no matter how much I loved my calling, they always came first (I wonder if they believe that one). Like old blue eyes, regrets, I have a few. I regret the lost sheep that I couldn't reach. I regret not being more aggressive in seeking them out. But on the whole, I really did love them and really did try to be the Lord's handmaiden. I tried to plan with a purpose and follow the handbook. Mostly I just did what comes naturally and care for my sisters, like a mother would. And now I'm not sure how to turn it off. Luckily, there is prayer. One can always pray for others. It's bitter sweet. I'm so thankful for the opportunity to have served and hope our new president will find joy in this most wonderful (and tiring) of callings. I hope y'all have a wonderful Sunday.
Forever your girl,
Tracey
Sunday, May 19, 2013
Sunday, April 10, 2011
ENGAGED!!!!
Greetings Loved Ones,
It's a lovely, albeit hot, Spring day in Memphis Tennessee. I thought I would let you in on what's happening here.
Well, last Thursday Robert took Charlotte to dinner at J.Alexanders and then they went to a little park in our neighborhood. It was twilight and the lovely lamp posts had just come on. They took a seat on a bench and held hands. It was a perfect Southern Spring night, just a little breeze and things were just starting to bloom. I'm sure he gathered all his courage and knelt on one knee pulled a box out of his pocket and said, "Charlotte, will you marry me?" She tells me that she grabbed him and said yes before he could even open the box. It was just the two of them, which I have come around to loving. Would I rather have a video? Yes, but this is so sweet and personal and something they will share privately forever. Most importantly she is so very happy. I love him for that.
So now to the business at hand. We went to see The Pink Palace last week as a venue and she fell in love (as did I) It is just lovely and very old fashioned and has been her favorite museum since she was a baby. I can see her and her new husband walking down the grand staircase while being announced as Mr. and Mrs. Robert Riding. There are elements of a museum that are combined with the dancing (like a shrunken head) but that just makes it all the more fun. In order to get this when she wants to get married we have changed it to a Friday instead of a Saturday. I just hope that won't throw people off it being a work day and all. I'm hoping the draw will be the beautiful and unusual surroundings and the bride of course. We went to a reception yesterday and the turn out was very sad. To be fair, it was a second reception for the groom. Please let me explain. Mormons often times have two or three receptions depending on where family is located. LOTS of folks that leave Utah for jobs and such often have a reception where they live and also back in Utah so Grandma and Uncle Earl can come without schlepping halfway across the country. But my girl is homegrown and while her affianced is from Utah he has made his roots here. His Grandparents are coming here. So there will just be one.
We haven't signed the contract yet on the Pink Palace. Dave would like us to complete our trip to Birmingham (UAB) tomorrow and get the 2nd opinion from the specialist first. Just so we can put that behind us. I wasn't nervous at all but as the time approaches I am kind of dreading it. Not so much what the Dr. will say but the trip itself. Usually a trip to B'ham is a pleasant trip but tomorrow will not be. I wish it were a fun shopping trip for wedding things or a trip to visit friends and family instead of what it is. Wish us luck.
We have hired the photographer and yesterday we went and outfitted 6 men in new black suits. They all looked so very handsome (especially MY man) ;) Charlotte's dress came in from Latter Day Bride and is already at the seamstress for alterations. I have my suit, Annie has a possible 3 dresses that she can wear. The only problem is the boys. For some reason they don't make nice suits for boys. What's up with that? I realize that most kids grow too fast to justify purchasing a suit but my boys don't and David wears his every single Sunday. It's very irritating. All of them are cheap polyester and can only be found in the ghetto or Wal-Mart. Arggggg. Oh well, what of that. We have a DJ in mind and have already contacted him as well as a caterer. So things are moving along quite nicely.
If you get this e-mail I hope you know you are very much wanted to attend but we certainly understand the expense of traveling to Memphis. We would love to see everyone that can make it. Dave likes to tease me and say it will be the social event of the season. I don't know about that but I do know I want it to be wonderful for the bride and the groom. Yesterday when we were trying on shoes the groom didn't really like them so we didn't get them. Period. We have time to find a comfortable pair of shoes for goodness sake. My OCD be damned.
Time to sign off and get ready to go to B'ham.
All my love, Tracey
It's a lovely, albeit hot, Spring day in Memphis Tennessee. I thought I would let you in on what's happening here.
Well, last Thursday Robert took Charlotte to dinner at J.Alexanders and then they went to a little park in our neighborhood. It was twilight and the lovely lamp posts had just come on. They took a seat on a bench and held hands. It was a perfect Southern Spring night, just a little breeze and things were just starting to bloom. I'm sure he gathered all his courage and knelt on one knee pulled a box out of his pocket and said, "Charlotte, will you marry me?" She tells me that she grabbed him and said yes before he could even open the box. It was just the two of them, which I have come around to loving. Would I rather have a video? Yes, but this is so sweet and personal and something they will share privately forever. Most importantly she is so very happy. I love him for that.
So now to the business at hand. We went to see The Pink Palace last week as a venue and she fell in love (as did I) It is just lovely and very old fashioned and has been her favorite museum since she was a baby. I can see her and her new husband walking down the grand staircase while being announced as Mr. and Mrs. Robert Riding. There are elements of a museum that are combined with the dancing (like a shrunken head) but that just makes it all the more fun. In order to get this when she wants to get married we have changed it to a Friday instead of a Saturday. I just hope that won't throw people off it being a work day and all. I'm hoping the draw will be the beautiful and unusual surroundings and the bride of course. We went to a reception yesterday and the turn out was very sad. To be fair, it was a second reception for the groom. Please let me explain. Mormons often times have two or three receptions depending on where family is located. LOTS of folks that leave Utah for jobs and such often have a reception where they live and also back in Utah so Grandma and Uncle Earl can come without schlepping halfway across the country. But my girl is homegrown and while her affianced is from Utah he has made his roots here. His Grandparents are coming here. So there will just be one.
We haven't signed the contract yet on the Pink Palace. Dave would like us to complete our trip to Birmingham (UAB) tomorrow and get the 2nd opinion from the specialist first. Just so we can put that behind us. I wasn't nervous at all but as the time approaches I am kind of dreading it. Not so much what the Dr. will say but the trip itself. Usually a trip to B'ham is a pleasant trip but tomorrow will not be. I wish it were a fun shopping trip for wedding things or a trip to visit friends and family instead of what it is. Wish us luck.
We have hired the photographer and yesterday we went and outfitted 6 men in new black suits. They all looked so very handsome (especially MY man) ;) Charlotte's dress came in from Latter Day Bride and is already at the seamstress for alterations. I have my suit, Annie has a possible 3 dresses that she can wear. The only problem is the boys. For some reason they don't make nice suits for boys. What's up with that? I realize that most kids grow too fast to justify purchasing a suit but my boys don't and David wears his every single Sunday. It's very irritating. All of them are cheap polyester and can only be found in the ghetto or Wal-Mart. Arggggg. Oh well, what of that. We have a DJ in mind and have already contacted him as well as a caterer. So things are moving along quite nicely.
If you get this e-mail I hope you know you are very much wanted to attend but we certainly understand the expense of traveling to Memphis. We would love to see everyone that can make it. Dave likes to tease me and say it will be the social event of the season. I don't know about that but I do know I want it to be wonderful for the bride and the groom. Yesterday when we were trying on shoes the groom didn't really like them so we didn't get them. Period. We have time to find a comfortable pair of shoes for goodness sake. My OCD be damned.
Time to sign off and get ready to go to B'ham.
All my love, Tracey
Monday, April 4, 2011
"Nothing's haaappppeennning!."
Greetings loved ones,
My title is a line from "A Little Mermaid". It's what the seagull Scuttle says when he is waiting on the prince to kiss Ariel so she can get her voice back and they can live happily ever after. It's how I've felt for about a month while we wait on the ring to be presented. Charlotte's boyfriend wants the proposal to be perfect and while I love that about him the practical mother who has to plan a reception by July 16 is just about to have a meltdown. It isn't really a secret anymore so I would just like to get on with it. I don't want to rush it because I know this time with her is precious but photographers get booked as to venues (which is a WHOLE other topic)and caterers. I want it all settled so I CAN enjoy what little time I have left with her as well as out of town family and guests. I suppose all the years I have planned events at church was just a training ground for this moment. Make no mistake this is the Olympics of parties. I want it to be magical for her, like a fairytale. All little girls dream of their wedding day, I know I did. While Charlotte is not near as high maintenance as I am I know her and she is excited. When I ask her, "Are you excited baby?" I get that precious grin from when she was 4 or 5 and she says, "YES!" Like when we were about to go see Santa or to the zoo or to Disney. My favorite part is watching them together. It's so romantic and it reminds me of when Dave and I were their age. Can't wait to see him, to kiss him, to plan our lives together. Ah, young love.
We are planning as if it's public news. Dave, Charlotte and I are going to meet the photographer in the morning. I will then go see a couple of venues. We have the cultural hall at church reserved but Dave thinks we should cover all our bases plus I love the package deal. My dream venue would be a lovely site WITH a wonderful caterer. Be still my heart. We could use the gym but it is disgusting and is in terrible need of a paint job and would take 2 days to decorate, something I would rather not do. So the quest is on. Heartwood hall is booked, as is The Esplanade and Hunt Phelan Inn, Le Pavilion isn't but I fear it is too small and The Cadre building has yet to call me back. (That's where I really want to have it) We shall see. Wish us luck. Well it's time to do homework and get dinner ready.
All my love, Tracey
My title is a line from "A Little Mermaid". It's what the seagull Scuttle says when he is waiting on the prince to kiss Ariel so she can get her voice back and they can live happily ever after. It's how I've felt for about a month while we wait on the ring to be presented. Charlotte's boyfriend wants the proposal to be perfect and while I love that about him the practical mother who has to plan a reception by July 16 is just about to have a meltdown. It isn't really a secret anymore so I would just like to get on with it. I don't want to rush it because I know this time with her is precious but photographers get booked as to venues (which is a WHOLE other topic)and caterers. I want it all settled so I CAN enjoy what little time I have left with her as well as out of town family and guests. I suppose all the years I have planned events at church was just a training ground for this moment. Make no mistake this is the Olympics of parties. I want it to be magical for her, like a fairytale. All little girls dream of their wedding day, I know I did. While Charlotte is not near as high maintenance as I am I know her and she is excited. When I ask her, "Are you excited baby?" I get that precious grin from when she was 4 or 5 and she says, "YES!" Like when we were about to go see Santa or to the zoo or to Disney. My favorite part is watching them together. It's so romantic and it reminds me of when Dave and I were their age. Can't wait to see him, to kiss him, to plan our lives together. Ah, young love.
We are planning as if it's public news. Dave, Charlotte and I are going to meet the photographer in the morning. I will then go see a couple of venues. We have the cultural hall at church reserved but Dave thinks we should cover all our bases plus I love the package deal. My dream venue would be a lovely site WITH a wonderful caterer. Be still my heart. We could use the gym but it is disgusting and is in terrible need of a paint job and would take 2 days to decorate, something I would rather not do. So the quest is on. Heartwood hall is booked, as is The Esplanade and Hunt Phelan Inn, Le Pavilion isn't but I fear it is too small and The Cadre building has yet to call me back. (That's where I really want to have it) We shall see. Wish us luck. Well it's time to do homework and get dinner ready.
All my love, Tracey
Saturday, March 26, 2011
Leaving the nest
Greetings loved ones,
I haven't posted in quite some time because I was shocked to have a complete stranger comment on my blog about Emma. I didn't realize the whole world can see your blog unless you block it. What a chucklehead. I still haven't blocked it but figure my other posts are very mundane and no one will be that interested. I must say, it feels good to be back.
It has been an emotional last three weeks. My best friends son was serving his mission in Sendai, Japan when the earthquake and tsunami hit. We didn't know where he was for about 24 hours and as you can imagine Beth, (my friend) was a raw nerve. We all were. I've loved that boy since he was 6 months old. Finally, he emailed them and told them he was okay. The church closed his mission and sent him home because he only had about six weeks left. It has been a hard transition for him. To be snatched out of there and not get to say good-bye to anyone is hard on these young men. We are all so glad he is home, safe and sound.
The week before I took Charlotte to the neurologist and we found out that my 20 year old daughter had had a stroke the previous year. We found out because she volunteered as a 'base line' for a study at St Jude. They took an MRI of her last year and then when she went in this year the MRI showed an 'anomaly' and the radiologist called her at home that night to tell her to get to her GP IMMEDIATELY for a referral to a neurologist. It was all very upsetting. But the doc figured it out and now she is on Plavix and life is good. We will be going to UAB for a 2nd opinion sometime in the next month. The Dr. in B'ham is a fellow and has extensive knowledge on this sort of thing (it isn't normal for 20 year olds to have strokes).
Last week we spent 10 days in Southern California with all the kids. So, I've discovered that I don't especially like traveling with teenage boys. It's kind of like traveling with a caged badger in the backseat. Let's just say I was glad to be home. My favorite part was getting to see my precious step-mom Angela. I hate the wording for step-parents. It sounds so not-so-important, which is completely lubricious. I have loved both of my step-parents as much as my biological parents. I'm glad my children just call her Gigi. That's much better. Anyway, I have this sweet memory of us eating dinner at a really nice restaurant in Downtown Disney with our Gigi. It is something I can take to heaven with me one day. :)
Now with all this craziness going on in our lives there has been one sweet thing that I am really enjoying. My daughter is in love. She is in love with a wonderful man. I say man and not boy because Robert is 8 years older than Charlotte. Robert is sweet and quiet, loves to read and fish but mostly he is crazy in love with my daughter. I adore him. If there were arranged marriages he would be my choice. He is smart (he's an engineer at Fed Ex),kind, and faithful. He served his mission in Colorado Denver South, he is the Cub Master in his ward (which is in a disadvantaged area of town)and he is a good son to his parents. I know this because we are good friends with his parents. He spends every extra moment with Charlotte and while he is very shy and quiet I know he is very romantic. He leaves her flowers and sends her sweet love texts (that's what the young people do now). She is very loyal to him as she doesn't share what he says but I see her smiles when she gets them. It is so wonderful to watch her grow into a beautiful woman and to watch her mature and just to be happy. They are too precious together. I know there will be a ring soon and a wedding this summer. (Remember I'm good friends with his mom.) While I'm so happy for her I know I will miss her terribly. We are the best of friends and she really cares how I like things (the definition of a friend). You raise them to be independent of you but never really think about them moving out until the very end. I've been buying her things for her hope chest since she was 15 but didn't see them being used. But now I do. I can see her hanging pictures, cooking and building a home. It's what I've been training her to do her whole life. I keep thinking, is there anything I haven't told her that she needs to know? When I do think of something I try to tell her right away. It's kind of like sending her away to camp for the first time. Do you have EVERYTHING you need to make you happy? I hope she has everything. Let's see, you've got faith, wisdom, love and knowledge packed in here. If you need anything else just call me and I'll bring out to you. It's harder than I thought it would be. It came sooner than I thought it would. I guess that is what my parents said. On second thought I was a pistol, I'm sure my mom was just glad I found David. ;)
So that's my update. All is well and I hope all is well with ya'll.
With all my love,
Tracey
I haven't posted in quite some time because I was shocked to have a complete stranger comment on my blog about Emma. I didn't realize the whole world can see your blog unless you block it. What a chucklehead. I still haven't blocked it but figure my other posts are very mundane and no one will be that interested. I must say, it feels good to be back.
It has been an emotional last three weeks. My best friends son was serving his mission in Sendai, Japan when the earthquake and tsunami hit. We didn't know where he was for about 24 hours and as you can imagine Beth, (my friend) was a raw nerve. We all were. I've loved that boy since he was 6 months old. Finally, he emailed them and told them he was okay. The church closed his mission and sent him home because he only had about six weeks left. It has been a hard transition for him. To be snatched out of there and not get to say good-bye to anyone is hard on these young men. We are all so glad he is home, safe and sound.
The week before I took Charlotte to the neurologist and we found out that my 20 year old daughter had had a stroke the previous year. We found out because she volunteered as a 'base line' for a study at St Jude. They took an MRI of her last year and then when she went in this year the MRI showed an 'anomaly' and the radiologist called her at home that night to tell her to get to her GP IMMEDIATELY for a referral to a neurologist. It was all very upsetting. But the doc figured it out and now she is on Plavix and life is good. We will be going to UAB for a 2nd opinion sometime in the next month. The Dr. in B'ham is a fellow and has extensive knowledge on this sort of thing (it isn't normal for 20 year olds to have strokes).
Last week we spent 10 days in Southern California with all the kids. So, I've discovered that I don't especially like traveling with teenage boys. It's kind of like traveling with a caged badger in the backseat. Let's just say I was glad to be home. My favorite part was getting to see my precious step-mom Angela. I hate the wording for step-parents. It sounds so not-so-important, which is completely lubricious. I have loved both of my step-parents as much as my biological parents. I'm glad my children just call her Gigi. That's much better. Anyway, I have this sweet memory of us eating dinner at a really nice restaurant in Downtown Disney with our Gigi. It is something I can take to heaven with me one day. :)
Now with all this craziness going on in our lives there has been one sweet thing that I am really enjoying. My daughter is in love. She is in love with a wonderful man. I say man and not boy because Robert is 8 years older than Charlotte. Robert is sweet and quiet, loves to read and fish but mostly he is crazy in love with my daughter. I adore him. If there were arranged marriages he would be my choice. He is smart (he's an engineer at Fed Ex),kind, and faithful. He served his mission in Colorado Denver South, he is the Cub Master in his ward (which is in a disadvantaged area of town)and he is a good son to his parents. I know this because we are good friends with his parents. He spends every extra moment with Charlotte and while he is very shy and quiet I know he is very romantic. He leaves her flowers and sends her sweet love texts (that's what the young people do now). She is very loyal to him as she doesn't share what he says but I see her smiles when she gets them. It is so wonderful to watch her grow into a beautiful woman and to watch her mature and just to be happy. They are too precious together. I know there will be a ring soon and a wedding this summer. (Remember I'm good friends with his mom.) While I'm so happy for her I know I will miss her terribly. We are the best of friends and she really cares how I like things (the definition of a friend). You raise them to be independent of you but never really think about them moving out until the very end. I've been buying her things for her hope chest since she was 15 but didn't see them being used. But now I do. I can see her hanging pictures, cooking and building a home. It's what I've been training her to do her whole life. I keep thinking, is there anything I haven't told her that she needs to know? When I do think of something I try to tell her right away. It's kind of like sending her away to camp for the first time. Do you have EVERYTHING you need to make you happy? I hope she has everything. Let's see, you've got faith, wisdom, love and knowledge packed in here. If you need anything else just call me and I'll bring out to you. It's harder than I thought it would be. It came sooner than I thought it would. I guess that is what my parents said. On second thought I was a pistol, I'm sure my mom was just glad I found David. ;)
So that's my update. All is well and I hope all is well with ya'll.
With all my love,
Tracey
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
The Tragic Kindom
Greetings loved ones,
So we went on vacation week before last to Walt Disney World. Big mistake. Why is it that something you look forward to so much and is so crazy expensive can be turned upside down by something as small as a germ. We bought tickets on Southwest out of Nashville (three hours away) because they were half the price of ones out of Memphis. Memphis is a hub for Delta/Northwest so no Southwest here. Dave HATES this, it really drives him to distraction as it does most Memphians. He says "It's how they gig 'ya!" Anywho, so we drive the 3 hours to Nashville and get a flight to Tampa, not Orlando because latter in the week we have a business conference for the shop in Marco Island and Tampa is just about halfway between the two places. We go to Animal Kingdom on Sunday and around 3 or 4 in the afternoon Big Dave says he doesn't feel good and is going to sit in the van with David. The park closes at 5 pm so I don't think much about it and we go back to the hotel. But later that night when we went to dinner Dave opted out and spent his evening driving and riding the porcelain bus. Poor baby. So he misses the Magic Kingdom the next day. It was a long, long day. 10:30 am til 10:30 pm. That's a long day for a bunch of couch potatoes like us. The lines were crazy long and we missed our daddy. But it was still a good day. The weather was beautiful and not rainy like the week before. So Tuesday is our last day and we decided to go to Epcot. Dave was feeling much better and no one else seemed to have caught it so we assumed it was food poisoning. You know what happens when you ass/u/me anything.(I recently showed that to Little David and he thought is was hilarious) We enter Epcot and take the pictures with the big silver ball and all that. We ride some rides and around 3pm we head over to the world showcase, Mexican pavilion to eat a late lunch at San Angel our favorite restaurant on the property. It's so fun. It's inside a huge Mayan Temple and it's like you are eating in old Mexico. Did I mention it's my FAVORITE place to eat in Epcot? We order our food and I eat the appetizers and by the time our food comes I just know I shouldn't eat it. Something said "DON'T EAT YOUR FOOD!" Did I listen? NO.
Within minutes of finishing most of my delicious meal I felt really sick. Stupid. I tried to go to the restroom, but no, nothing -just nausea. I was done. Just that quick. I told Dave I was going to the van. I started towards the parking lot but didn't get very far when it hit me in earnest. I made it to a restroom in time for the diarrhea to begin. As I sat there I got sicker and sicker and then the cold sweats started. I began to pray,"Dear Lord, please just let me get my pants up before I puke." I did just that and no more. There I was heaving my guts up in the middle of Epcot. I remember thinking, "oh, those poor women on either side of me can here me in here, they must be totally grossed out." Then I felt the diarrhea again and just had time to wipe off the seat. If anyone knows what a germaphob I am, you know how awful this was for me. So much so, that I wouldn't leave the bathroom until the cleaning lady had cleaned out my stall. OCD to the max! I rethought the whole going to the car thing as there are no facilities in the parking lot. I remembered passing a first aid station on the way to the restaurant (ironic huh?) So I made my way to the first aid station and on the way past my friend whose family went with us. I could barely walk and talk but I said "Kelli! Where are you going?" She said she was going to the car, that she didn't feel good either." I told her to follow me to the first aid station and she did. We walked in like we had been shot. Kelli spoke for us and told the two women behind the counter that we had been sick and just needed to sit down for a while. They were VERY rude to us. "Why don't you go back to your resort ladies?" I can't tell you how sick I was, I haven't been that sick since I was 21 and had the flu. But I hissed back at them "I CAN'T GET TO MY CAR!" They said, "Well you can't sit out here, you'll have to go to the back and lay down. We have to many patrons that come and go in the waiting room." My thoughts were 1.Laying down is just what I NEED to do and 2.am I NOT a patron. I paid my $125 dollars to walk in the gates and THIS is how I'm treated? And THEN she said, "You can't stay too long, we're very busy today." So help me, we were the only ones there. Epcot stands for Experimental prototype community of tomorrow. I think it stands for Epcot's people cannot offer tenderness. So we laid in there for some time and let me just say it was a good thing I didn't go to the van as I was constantly back and forth to the bathroom. Kelli just fell asleep but I was in agony. Finally, Kent (Kelli's husband) called and she told him where we were and I said "Please came with Dave and give me a blessing!" Shortly thereafter the husbands showed up and gave us both a blessing. What are the odds of having two priesthood holders there? I just thank God they were. So, they gave us a paper blanket and rudely sent us on our way in two wheelchairs. You know, it takes a lot to embarrass me but being wheeled out of Epcot under a paper blanket is probably the top of my list. Plus, every sound every bump, every smell made me nauseous. The guys decided to let Kelli drive us home as she was the least sick. Dave helped me in their truck and buckled me in. Mistake #1. Kelli drove while I moaned. We barely got past the Welcome to Epcot sign when I felt it coming. I yelled "Kelli, pull over!" But it was too late. Thank God for the paper blanket, which caught most of it but not all. Because I was buckled in it got all over the seat belt. Ewwwwww. Fortunately, I took most of the hit. Unfortunately, because I vomited so violently, I couldn't stop the other end. So there I was vomit on my shirt and jacket and my pants soiled too. Would you believe Kelli had a whole basket of clean beach towels in the bed of her truck. I took off my clothes right there on the side of the interstate. I was just in my tennis shoes and underwear and I didn't care. Kelli handed me a towel and I wrapped up. You know those few minutes right after you are sick that you feel completely fine? Well, I used those minutes to use the last 5 Handi-Wipes in my purse to clean up Kelli's truck. Mostly I just cleaned the seat belt. I begged Kellie to let me ride in the bed of her truck (she has a camper top) but she was mortified and refused to let me. I said "Kelli, I stink and I don't want to mess up your truck any more than I already have." She teared up and said we would just use more towels and roll down the windows. What a good friend. We just left all the illness and cleaning materials on the side of the road. I felt bad about it but knew that because it was still on Disney property some poor slob would have to clean it up.
We made it back to the hotel without anymore excitement. Big Dave took care of everything that night, including me. The rest of the week went better but I never felt up to snuff. As I related this story to my sister-in-law, her husband (Dave's brother Clark)commented that it sounded more like the Tragic Kingdom to him. I howled when I heard this as Clark is a stroke survivor and surprises us all with his wit sometimes. So that was our trip to Hell. I'm really sorry it was so graphic but that's life and this is a journal for me as well as a way to stay in touch. Here's hoping your vacations fair way better than ours did. Regretfully, Tracey
So we went on vacation week before last to Walt Disney World. Big mistake. Why is it that something you look forward to so much and is so crazy expensive can be turned upside down by something as small as a germ. We bought tickets on Southwest out of Nashville (three hours away) because they were half the price of ones out of Memphis. Memphis is a hub for Delta/Northwest so no Southwest here. Dave HATES this, it really drives him to distraction as it does most Memphians. He says "It's how they gig 'ya!" Anywho, so we drive the 3 hours to Nashville and get a flight to Tampa, not Orlando because latter in the week we have a business conference for the shop in Marco Island and Tampa is just about halfway between the two places. We go to Animal Kingdom on Sunday and around 3 or 4 in the afternoon Big Dave says he doesn't feel good and is going to sit in the van with David. The park closes at 5 pm so I don't think much about it and we go back to the hotel. But later that night when we went to dinner Dave opted out and spent his evening driving and riding the porcelain bus. Poor baby. So he misses the Magic Kingdom the next day. It was a long, long day. 10:30 am til 10:30 pm. That's a long day for a bunch of couch potatoes like us. The lines were crazy long and we missed our daddy. But it was still a good day. The weather was beautiful and not rainy like the week before. So Tuesday is our last day and we decided to go to Epcot. Dave was feeling much better and no one else seemed to have caught it so we assumed it was food poisoning. You know what happens when you ass/u/me anything.(I recently showed that to Little David and he thought is was hilarious) We enter Epcot and take the pictures with the big silver ball and all that. We ride some rides and around 3pm we head over to the world showcase, Mexican pavilion to eat a late lunch at San Angel our favorite restaurant on the property. It's so fun. It's inside a huge Mayan Temple and it's like you are eating in old Mexico. Did I mention it's my FAVORITE place to eat in Epcot? We order our food and I eat the appetizers and by the time our food comes I just know I shouldn't eat it. Something said "DON'T EAT YOUR FOOD!" Did I listen? NO.
Within minutes of finishing most of my delicious meal I felt really sick. Stupid. I tried to go to the restroom, but no, nothing -just nausea. I was done. Just that quick. I told Dave I was going to the van. I started towards the parking lot but didn't get very far when it hit me in earnest. I made it to a restroom in time for the diarrhea to begin. As I sat there I got sicker and sicker and then the cold sweats started. I began to pray,"Dear Lord, please just let me get my pants up before I puke." I did just that and no more. There I was heaving my guts up in the middle of Epcot. I remember thinking, "oh, those poor women on either side of me can here me in here, they must be totally grossed out." Then I felt the diarrhea again and just had time to wipe off the seat. If anyone knows what a germaphob I am, you know how awful this was for me. So much so, that I wouldn't leave the bathroom until the cleaning lady had cleaned out my stall. OCD to the max! I rethought the whole going to the car thing as there are no facilities in the parking lot. I remembered passing a first aid station on the way to the restaurant (ironic huh?) So I made my way to the first aid station and on the way past my friend whose family went with us. I could barely walk and talk but I said "Kelli! Where are you going?" She said she was going to the car, that she didn't feel good either." I told her to follow me to the first aid station and she did. We walked in like we had been shot. Kelli spoke for us and told the two women behind the counter that we had been sick and just needed to sit down for a while. They were VERY rude to us. "Why don't you go back to your resort ladies?" I can't tell you how sick I was, I haven't been that sick since I was 21 and had the flu. But I hissed back at them "I CAN'T GET TO MY CAR!" They said, "Well you can't sit out here, you'll have to go to the back and lay down. We have to many patrons that come and go in the waiting room." My thoughts were 1.Laying down is just what I NEED to do and 2.am I NOT a patron. I paid my $125 dollars to walk in the gates and THIS is how I'm treated? And THEN she said, "You can't stay too long, we're very busy today." So help me, we were the only ones there. Epcot stands for Experimental prototype community of tomorrow. I think it stands for Epcot's people cannot offer tenderness. So we laid in there for some time and let me just say it was a good thing I didn't go to the van as I was constantly back and forth to the bathroom. Kelli just fell asleep but I was in agony. Finally, Kent (Kelli's husband) called and she told him where we were and I said "Please came with Dave and give me a blessing!" Shortly thereafter the husbands showed up and gave us both a blessing. What are the odds of having two priesthood holders there? I just thank God they were. So, they gave us a paper blanket and rudely sent us on our way in two wheelchairs. You know, it takes a lot to embarrass me but being wheeled out of Epcot under a paper blanket is probably the top of my list. Plus, every sound every bump, every smell made me nauseous. The guys decided to let Kelli drive us home as she was the least sick. Dave helped me in their truck and buckled me in. Mistake #1. Kelli drove while I moaned. We barely got past the Welcome to Epcot sign when I felt it coming. I yelled "Kelli, pull over!" But it was too late. Thank God for the paper blanket, which caught most of it but not all. Because I was buckled in it got all over the seat belt. Ewwwwww. Fortunately, I took most of the hit. Unfortunately, because I vomited so violently, I couldn't stop the other end. So there I was vomit on my shirt and jacket and my pants soiled too. Would you believe Kelli had a whole basket of clean beach towels in the bed of her truck. I took off my clothes right there on the side of the interstate. I was just in my tennis shoes and underwear and I didn't care. Kelli handed me a towel and I wrapped up. You know those few minutes right after you are sick that you feel completely fine? Well, I used those minutes to use the last 5 Handi-Wipes in my purse to clean up Kelli's truck. Mostly I just cleaned the seat belt. I begged Kellie to let me ride in the bed of her truck (she has a camper top) but she was mortified and refused to let me. I said "Kelli, I stink and I don't want to mess up your truck any more than I already have." She teared up and said we would just use more towels and roll down the windows. What a good friend. We just left all the illness and cleaning materials on the side of the road. I felt bad about it but knew that because it was still on Disney property some poor slob would have to clean it up.
We made it back to the hotel without anymore excitement. Big Dave took care of everything that night, including me. The rest of the week went better but I never felt up to snuff. As I related this story to my sister-in-law, her husband (Dave's brother Clark)commented that it sounded more like the Tragic Kingdom to him. I howled when I heard this as Clark is a stroke survivor and surprises us all with his wit sometimes. So that was our trip to Hell. I'm really sorry it was so graphic but that's life and this is a journal for me as well as a way to stay in touch. Here's hoping your vacations fair way better than ours did. Regretfully, Tracey
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Good-bye Helen
Greetings dearests,
Well, this has been a crazy week as we are about to depart for vacation to Disney World and Marcos Island in south Florida. Sadly, my sister-in-law and dear friend's mother passed away last weekend and was buried on Tuesday. I've thought about Helen, (Gwen Cox's mom) off and on all week. Today I was packing and pulled out a glorious pair of red patten leather shoes. I love these shoes but they get black marks from the heels on them. I thought to myself, "You know Helen Mewbourn would know how to get the marks off these shoes." and then I was rather sad at the thought that all that we are and know leaves with us. Gwen always gave her mom props and would defer to her mother when she realized Helen was the expert on a subject. Like photography. I really think hard before I buy anything larger than a 8 x 10 photo, because Helen thought it unseemly. :) I love to remember funny stories about departed friends. My favorite about Helen was one involving a bare chest and a smart new dress. Helen was a hoot and I'm sure will be very glad to be with her mother and father and husband. My friend Gwen was a good daughter to her mother. I hope to be as caring as she was.
I love you Gwen. I hope you don't mind me writing this. Actually I think I'll ask you permission first. So if you are reading this it was ok with Gwen.
An update on Emma Evie, my little friend with cancer. She is dying. They told her parents week before last there is nothing more that they can do for her except make her comfortable. Her tumors came back. Stage 4 Neuroblastoma is usually fatal. We are praying just for the tender mercies of the Lord now. It is a painful way to die. She isn't the one I worry about though. My friend Beth Jones assures me that St. Jude will not let that baby suffer. Her young parents are. Pray for them. No one should have to go through what they are about to. Kiss your babies and grandbabies (even if your babies are 30). Life is a precious gift. As always, all my love, Tracey
Well, this has been a crazy week as we are about to depart for vacation to Disney World and Marcos Island in south Florida. Sadly, my sister-in-law and dear friend's mother passed away last weekend and was buried on Tuesday. I've thought about Helen, (Gwen Cox's mom) off and on all week. Today I was packing and pulled out a glorious pair of red patten leather shoes. I love these shoes but they get black marks from the heels on them. I thought to myself, "You know Helen Mewbourn would know how to get the marks off these shoes." and then I was rather sad at the thought that all that we are and know leaves with us. Gwen always gave her mom props and would defer to her mother when she realized Helen was the expert on a subject. Like photography. I really think hard before I buy anything larger than a 8 x 10 photo, because Helen thought it unseemly. :) I love to remember funny stories about departed friends. My favorite about Helen was one involving a bare chest and a smart new dress. Helen was a hoot and I'm sure will be very glad to be with her mother and father and husband. My friend Gwen was a good daughter to her mother. I hope to be as caring as she was.
I love you Gwen. I hope you don't mind me writing this. Actually I think I'll ask you permission first. So if you are reading this it was ok with Gwen.
An update on Emma Evie, my little friend with cancer. She is dying. They told her parents week before last there is nothing more that they can do for her except make her comfortable. Her tumors came back. Stage 4 Neuroblastoma is usually fatal. We are praying just for the tender mercies of the Lord now. It is a painful way to die. She isn't the one I worry about though. My friend Beth Jones assures me that St. Jude will not let that baby suffer. Her young parents are. Pray for them. No one should have to go through what they are about to. Kiss your babies and grandbabies (even if your babies are 30). Life is a precious gift. As always, all my love, Tracey
Monday, February 1, 2010
Thanks for the memories
Greetings Loved Ones,
So, yesterday was the 28th anniversary of my baptism into The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. In honor of this day I decided to feed the missionaries. Yesterday was a wonderful day. Ironically church was canceled due to ice and bad roads. Our stake president is an attorney and knows how to avoid a law suit. But I like to think it was more inspiration. Anyway it was a pleasant day. We had a delicious meal. I served Honey Baked Ham, Black-eyed peas with snaps, mashed potatoes, green peas, and Sister Schubert's rolls. The Elders (this is what we call 19 to 21 year old boys serving missions)seemed to enjoy it. They came and ate and gave us a sweet message and went on their way. This day made me recall the night I was baptized. I've never felt so peaceful in my life. Even though all around me life swirled about like a tornado. Somehow it just didn't bother me. It was rather out of body for me but I could sense others being upset. It started two weeks before when I had prayed for guidance. I had been down on my luck and wasn't living like I knew I should. My life felt empty and lonely so I decided to give God a chance. I pleaded with Him to send me a sign. Please send me someone to help me. Anyone. The next day around one in the afternoon there was a knock on my door. It was two sweet young women who said they had a message they would like to share with me. I asked them "Did Joseph send you?" They replied that no one had sent them, that they had felt "impressed" to come to my door. I invited them in as it was very cold outside. I listened to what they had to say and I wanted to hear more. They made an appointment for the next day. Every day they taught me more and more and it was like I had found something that I had lost. Everything they taught me made perfect sense. And finally they asked me if I wished to be baptized. "Of course." was my response. On the day of my baptism it was cold and yucky but I didn't care. I was happy. I had asked a friend, Bob Steward to baptize me which shocked him because he didn't even know I was taking the discussions. But he happily said yes, he would be honored. Things happened that night that had never happened before. First my beloved step father was delayed out of town. He was always home by Saturday but not this day. He asked me to wait one week so he could be there but I couldn't. I think it broke his heart. Next, they couldn't find the key to the font to turn on the water. You have to have water to baptize someone. They finally found it. Then, Bob was late and poor Gwen was so upset. I told her it was no big deal but she wasn't buying it. She had worked up a good mad. When Bob showed up there were no white clothes for him to wear. So our mutual friend Joe McDonald went to his house and brought back his (honest to goodness) Saturday Night Fever white suit. Too funny, but hey, it worked. Then, while the speaker I had asked to give the talk on baptism spoke he got a little off subject and started talking about baptism for the dead (which is crazy deep for folks not of our faith) and my old Southern Baptist Grandmother about bit her lip off while saying over and over, Mm, Mm, Mm and shaking her head. Now remember while all this circus was going on I couldn't have cared less. I walked into the water and Bob put his hand on mine and raising his other arm to the square he said "Having been commissioned of Jesus Christ, and by the power of the Holy Melchizedek priesthood which I hold,I baptize you in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost. Amen." Then he put me in the water and I came up new and clean and so filled with joy I don't have words to describe it here. It is something he and I will share for eternity and I am forever grateful. The sister missionaries were waiting for me with a towel and were all happy and giddy. It was like a dream for me. Then I got dried off and dressed and went back in where everyone greeted me with love. My new Relief Society President, Enid Anderson said to me, "Congratulations you're a brand new member of The Relief Society!" (our women's organization) Now, it should be known that I am a nervous joker. I can't help it, it just comes out. Plus, I was barely 19 and didn't REALLY understand about Relief Society then (ironic huh? 'cause I sure do now). My reply to her was, "So, when do I get my secret decoder ring?" She didn't laugh. Nothing. Crickets. It went right over her head. But she did smile, a kind of confused smile. She was old. Which is funny because I think she was probably the age I am now! :) Then Bob and Gwen and Joe all took me to Shogun at the end of Eastwood Mall for a lovely dinner. When I came home I was on cloud nine. I was just going to go to my room and straight to bed but my mom called me into her room. She asked me perfunctorily how my dinner went and then said to me "I think you just made the biggest mistake of your life." To which I replied, "Mom, I LOVE Japanese food!" (Nervous joker) She wasn't having any of it and said, "You know what I mean, you shouldn't have been baptized into that church." I knew what she meant, but even my crazy mother couldn't ruin this night for me. I knelt down at her bedside and took her hands in mine and said how very sorry I was for her. That I had found the best thing in the world and all I wanted to do was share it with her. She jerked her hands from mine and hissed "You're just like you father!" Which I suppose was meant to hurt me but just made me laugh which sent her around the bend. "Get out!" and she started to cry. I told her that I was sorry again and made my exit. Even with all that, I was still happy. Nothing she could say or would ever say over the next 25 years would change how I felt that night or every night since. My favorite part of this story is that, that same woman joined "that" church 25 years later. And just 2 weeks ago my only sibling, my precious brother joined that church too. It was a wonderful baptism, much different than my own. I was so happy after all those years of prayer and hope for my sweet brother. I cried like a baby (big surprise there) and so did he. This time it was another Steward that baptized, my own angel husband. He forgot to say amen so Mike had to go in again. When he came up the second time he said "Well, I'm good and baptized now!" (nervous joking must run in the family) This time there was laughter. My brother is surrounded with wonderful people that care for him and love him. Which is all anyone could hope for. In conclusion, (I know, finally) let just say that while I WAS very young, I knew what I was doing. Never, in my life have I felt better about a choice I have made. Through baptism I have come to not just know Jesus Christ, but He really is my best friend. When I pray it isn't a one way conversation. I mean, I know He hears me but He counsels with me too. He literally answers me. We talk like old friends. Sometimes we laugh and sometimes we cry. But just like an old friend I never leave with an empty heart. As I read this I realize it sounds cliche' but it is very personal to me. I have a testimony of my Savior, I know He lives just as I know my children live. I wish I could let you peek inside my heart to see how full it is, what joy just knowing that I am a precious daughter of God means to me. I am blessed beyond measure. This is my testimony. That I am who I am because of what I know and I know He is my Savior. I love Him dearly. Where would I be without Him? Where would anyone be? I just wanted to get this out. To share with you, my family and friends. How dearly I love you too. Forever, Tracey
So, yesterday was the 28th anniversary of my baptism into The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. In honor of this day I decided to feed the missionaries. Yesterday was a wonderful day. Ironically church was canceled due to ice and bad roads. Our stake president is an attorney and knows how to avoid a law suit. But I like to think it was more inspiration. Anyway it was a pleasant day. We had a delicious meal. I served Honey Baked Ham, Black-eyed peas with snaps, mashed potatoes, green peas, and Sister Schubert's rolls. The Elders (this is what we call 19 to 21 year old boys serving missions)seemed to enjoy it. They came and ate and gave us a sweet message and went on their way. This day made me recall the night I was baptized. I've never felt so peaceful in my life. Even though all around me life swirled about like a tornado. Somehow it just didn't bother me. It was rather out of body for me but I could sense others being upset. It started two weeks before when I had prayed for guidance. I had been down on my luck and wasn't living like I knew I should. My life felt empty and lonely so I decided to give God a chance. I pleaded with Him to send me a sign. Please send me someone to help me. Anyone. The next day around one in the afternoon there was a knock on my door. It was two sweet young women who said they had a message they would like to share with me. I asked them "Did Joseph send you?" They replied that no one had sent them, that they had felt "impressed" to come to my door. I invited them in as it was very cold outside. I listened to what they had to say and I wanted to hear more. They made an appointment for the next day. Every day they taught me more and more and it was like I had found something that I had lost. Everything they taught me made perfect sense. And finally they asked me if I wished to be baptized. "Of course." was my response. On the day of my baptism it was cold and yucky but I didn't care. I was happy. I had asked a friend, Bob Steward to baptize me which shocked him because he didn't even know I was taking the discussions. But he happily said yes, he would be honored. Things happened that night that had never happened before. First my beloved step father was delayed out of town. He was always home by Saturday but not this day. He asked me to wait one week so he could be there but I couldn't. I think it broke his heart. Next, they couldn't find the key to the font to turn on the water. You have to have water to baptize someone. They finally found it. Then, Bob was late and poor Gwen was so upset. I told her it was no big deal but she wasn't buying it. She had worked up a good mad. When Bob showed up there were no white clothes for him to wear. So our mutual friend Joe McDonald went to his house and brought back his (honest to goodness) Saturday Night Fever white suit. Too funny, but hey, it worked. Then, while the speaker I had asked to give the talk on baptism spoke he got a little off subject and started talking about baptism for the dead (which is crazy deep for folks not of our faith) and my old Southern Baptist Grandmother about bit her lip off while saying over and over, Mm, Mm, Mm and shaking her head. Now remember while all this circus was going on I couldn't have cared less. I walked into the water and Bob put his hand on mine and raising his other arm to the square he said "Having been commissioned of Jesus Christ, and by the power of the Holy Melchizedek priesthood which I hold,I baptize you in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost. Amen." Then he put me in the water and I came up new and clean and so filled with joy I don't have words to describe it here. It is something he and I will share for eternity and I am forever grateful. The sister missionaries were waiting for me with a towel and were all happy and giddy. It was like a dream for me. Then I got dried off and dressed and went back in where everyone greeted me with love. My new Relief Society President, Enid Anderson said to me, "Congratulations you're a brand new member of The Relief Society!" (our women's organization) Now, it should be known that I am a nervous joker. I can't help it, it just comes out. Plus, I was barely 19 and didn't REALLY understand about Relief Society then (ironic huh? 'cause I sure do now). My reply to her was, "So, when do I get my secret decoder ring?" She didn't laugh. Nothing. Crickets. It went right over her head. But she did smile, a kind of confused smile. She was old. Which is funny because I think she was probably the age I am now! :) Then Bob and Gwen and Joe all took me to Shogun at the end of Eastwood Mall for a lovely dinner. When I came home I was on cloud nine. I was just going to go to my room and straight to bed but my mom called me into her room. She asked me perfunctorily how my dinner went and then said to me "I think you just made the biggest mistake of your life." To which I replied, "Mom, I LOVE Japanese food!" (Nervous joker) She wasn't having any of it and said, "You know what I mean, you shouldn't have been baptized into that church." I knew what she meant, but even my crazy mother couldn't ruin this night for me. I knelt down at her bedside and took her hands in mine and said how very sorry I was for her. That I had found the best thing in the world and all I wanted to do was share it with her. She jerked her hands from mine and hissed "You're just like you father!" Which I suppose was meant to hurt me but just made me laugh which sent her around the bend. "Get out!" and she started to cry. I told her that I was sorry again and made my exit. Even with all that, I was still happy. Nothing she could say or would ever say over the next 25 years would change how I felt that night or every night since. My favorite part of this story is that, that same woman joined "that" church 25 years later. And just 2 weeks ago my only sibling, my precious brother joined that church too. It was a wonderful baptism, much different than my own. I was so happy after all those years of prayer and hope for my sweet brother. I cried like a baby (big surprise there) and so did he. This time it was another Steward that baptized, my own angel husband. He forgot to say amen so Mike had to go in again. When he came up the second time he said "Well, I'm good and baptized now!" (nervous joking must run in the family) This time there was laughter. My brother is surrounded with wonderful people that care for him and love him. Which is all anyone could hope for. In conclusion, (I know, finally) let just say that while I WAS very young, I knew what I was doing. Never, in my life have I felt better about a choice I have made. Through baptism I have come to not just know Jesus Christ, but He really is my best friend. When I pray it isn't a one way conversation. I mean, I know He hears me but He counsels with me too. He literally answers me. We talk like old friends. Sometimes we laugh and sometimes we cry. But just like an old friend I never leave with an empty heart. As I read this I realize it sounds cliche' but it is very personal to me. I have a testimony of my Savior, I know He lives just as I know my children live. I wish I could let you peek inside my heart to see how full it is, what joy just knowing that I am a precious daughter of God means to me. I am blessed beyond measure. This is my testimony. That I am who I am because of what I know and I know He is my Savior. I love Him dearly. Where would I be without Him? Where would anyone be? I just wanted to get this out. To share with you, my family and friends. How dearly I love you too. Forever, Tracey