OJ's anyone?
going there now to check it out.
Friday, December 5, 2008
Thursday, November 20, 2008
musings from afar
A few things to update, while I mind my wonderful nieces in Langley
1: I don't know if the new restaurant/GM position is going to pan out. I'm giving it a go, but so far things are grey. I have mixed reviews on the situation, as there are many rooting for me to get it, and many who do not want to see me leave where I am now.
Either way, I hope to know soon, to ease my mind.
2: It's been one week since the massive dose of immunizations, and I don't feel like a bag of potatoes. yet...two more days, and I should be out in the clear.
3: Christmas is coming fast. Take a moment, and think about why you are heading out to buy all those presents. Is it because the sheep of society all flock out to the retail stores, and say it's time to get all the "must have" items? Or are you out to celebrate the greatest gift of God, that his one and only Son should come to Earth to die for our sins? Me, I will be keeping this in mind when I shop, because that is really why I celebrate.
4: I am currently listening to "fire fall down" by Hillsong. What an amazing experience, every time I hear it. It's on the United we Stand CD, and would make an excellent way to celebrate Jesus' birthday.
1: I don't know if the new restaurant/GM position is going to pan out. I'm giving it a go, but so far things are grey. I have mixed reviews on the situation, as there are many rooting for me to get it, and many who do not want to see me leave where I am now.
Either way, I hope to know soon, to ease my mind.
2: It's been one week since the massive dose of immunizations, and I don't feel like a bag of potatoes. yet...two more days, and I should be out in the clear.
3: Christmas is coming fast. Take a moment, and think about why you are heading out to buy all those presents. Is it because the sheep of society all flock out to the retail stores, and say it's time to get all the "must have" items? Or are you out to celebrate the greatest gift of God, that his one and only Son should come to Earth to die for our sins? Me, I will be keeping this in mind when I shop, because that is really why I celebrate.
4: I am currently listening to "fire fall down" by Hillsong. What an amazing experience, every time I hear it. It's on the United we Stand CD, and would make an excellent way to celebrate Jesus' birthday.
Thursday, November 13, 2008
immune x 3
The kids went for their annual flu shot yesterday. Amongst a mix up of scheduling, I ended up at work instead of at this appointment with them, as is usually the custom. I missed out on the usual struggle to get the needle into Eleanor. Not too sad about that. Part of the bargaining tools used yesterday to get her shot done involved the oh so funny bit about how Daddy has to get two shots tomorrow (which is now today). I heard about this last night, and all morning from the two comedians.
Not that I was too concerned about an extra shot, our family doctor is awesome at giving them so it doesn't really hurt (at least until the next day). Except that today, after the first two, awesome family doctor looks a little more closely at the immunizations that I need for the paramedic academy, and realizes that there is actually one more that I need.
She wants to wait a month, because hey, 3 in one day would just be cruel. I guess I can't really complain, because I said just go ahead and do it. I don't really want to have to come back in a month and do this all over again.
Now, I'm home, and I have a feeling that my arm is going to start to be unusable soon, and I just may possibly explode from all of the immunizations that just hit me.
Not that I was too concerned about an extra shot, our family doctor is awesome at giving them so it doesn't really hurt (at least until the next day). Except that today, after the first two, awesome family doctor looks a little more closely at the immunizations that I need for the paramedic academy, and realizes that there is actually one more that I need.
She wants to wait a month, because hey, 3 in one day would just be cruel. I guess I can't really complain, because I said just go ahead and do it. I don't really want to have to come back in a month and do this all over again.
Now, I'm home, and I have a feeling that my arm is going to start to be unusable soon, and I just may possibly explode from all of the immunizations that just hit me.
Saturday, November 1, 2008
harvest win
Eleanor and Thomas dressed up for the Harvest festival at our church last night. I'm sure that this costume duo has appeared about a million times before, but I don't know if anyone pulled it off quite the way that these two did last night.
Princess Leia and Luke Skywalker. It was great. Eleanor won best costume for the 6-9 age range. Thomas looked good too, and was easily the most adept out of the throngs of light saber wielding characters there last night.
We didn't have our camera last night, so we will have to wait for a bit to get the pictures, otherwise you would be seeing some great shots right here.
Princess Leia and Luke Skywalker. It was great. Eleanor won best costume for the 6-9 age range. Thomas looked good too, and was easily the most adept out of the throngs of light saber wielding characters there last night.
We didn't have our camera last night, so we will have to wait for a bit to get the pictures, otherwise you would be seeing some great shots right here.
Thursday, October 30, 2008
choices
Sometimes we face choices in life. Some choices are important, like "should we move?" or "which school should the kids go to?". Or, also important, are the choices like "nobody would catch me if I took this magazine without paying for it...should I take it or not". Then there are the choices that aren't that important, like "which pair of socks shall I wear today" or "what's for lunch?".
With every choice, we usually assume that there is a positive answer, and a negative answer. A lot of times, we put a lot of effort in trying to decide which of the two choices is the correct or "right" one. We seek help from friends and family, hopefully we take the time to listen to God's word as well, all in trying to discern which choice is the "right" one.
I have been struggling for a while with a choice, and that choice is whether or not to leave my current restaurant to apply for a GM position with another brand. There seem to be alot of upsides and a few downsides to making that choice, the biggest downside being the putting on hold of the Paramedic academy.
As I struggled to figure out which is the "right" choice, I got an interesting piece of wisdom.
Sometimes God gives you two "right" choices. Sometimes we are just blessed, and have an opportunity to be right either way. I know this isn't always the case, but sometimes it is.
Nothing is forever, except the Love of God, so I'm off to make a choice. Try or Fail, time to give it a go.
With every choice, we usually assume that there is a positive answer, and a negative answer. A lot of times, we put a lot of effort in trying to decide which of the two choices is the correct or "right" one. We seek help from friends and family, hopefully we take the time to listen to God's word as well, all in trying to discern which choice is the "right" one.
I have been struggling for a while with a choice, and that choice is whether or not to leave my current restaurant to apply for a GM position with another brand. There seem to be alot of upsides and a few downsides to making that choice, the biggest downside being the putting on hold of the Paramedic academy.
As I struggled to figure out which is the "right" choice, I got an interesting piece of wisdom.
Sometimes God gives you two "right" choices. Sometimes we are just blessed, and have an opportunity to be right either way. I know this isn't always the case, but sometimes it is.
Nothing is forever, except the Love of God, so I'm off to make a choice. Try or Fail, time to give it a go.
Monday, October 27, 2008
latest edition of "things I never thought I would say"
This entry comes a long while after the last one. In fact, if I had the motivation, I would search my archives to find the last post of T.I.N.T.I.W.S. to tell you how long in fact it's been, and to link to it so you may check them out.
To you, I say, search the archives on your own time. Not in a nasty way, just in a 'I assume you have much more time than me to search the archives' kind of way.
Anyway, over breakfast of pancakes & sausage (eggs for me, can't have the pancakes of course), a conversation between Eleanor & Momma:
Momma: "do you like your breakfast"
Eleanor: "yes, it's ok. The pancakes are good"
M: "do you like the sausage?" (we are trying a new kind of sausage, it was pretty good actually)
E: "it's ok, not as good as the pancakes (which are currently being eaten without butter or syrup)
M: "do you want to try some syrup on them?"
E: "no"
M: "are you SURE? they are REALLY good with syrup"
E: "yes, I'm sure! no syrup!
Since when do parents have to try and actually encourage their kids to eat syrup? I totally thought that it should be the other way around, like "stop drinking the syrup", or "would you like some pancake with your syrup"
Hm. Something new every day.
To you, I say, search the archives on your own time. Not in a nasty way, just in a 'I assume you have much more time than me to search the archives' kind of way.
Anyway, over breakfast of pancakes & sausage (eggs for me, can't have the pancakes of course), a conversation between Eleanor & Momma:
Momma: "do you like your breakfast"
Eleanor: "yes, it's ok. The pancakes are good"
M: "do you like the sausage?" (we are trying a new kind of sausage, it was pretty good actually)
E: "it's ok, not as good as the pancakes (which are currently being eaten without butter or syrup)
M: "do you want to try some syrup on them?"
E: "no"
M: "are you SURE? they are REALLY good with syrup"
E: "yes, I'm sure! no syrup!
Since when do parents have to try and actually encourage their kids to eat syrup? I totally thought that it should be the other way around, like "stop drinking the syrup", or "would you like some pancake with your syrup"
Hm. Something new every day.
Friday, October 24, 2008
immunity
Wouldn't it be nice if restaurants were immune to sickness? Then we would never have to be short cooks...
Saturday, October 18, 2008
FIT
Yesterday brought me one big step closer to the Paramedic academy. I went and took the fitness assessment that needed to be done before I could apply. It went about as well as I expected, I managed to pass all of the required "elements". Some I rocked out, and some I squeaked by. It is a good thing that I have been playing basketball regularly, otherwise I may not have had the aerobic component locked down.
Today though, today is not so great. Thomas has been home sick from school the last two days, and in typical fashion, now that he is feeling better the rest of us are feeling it. Eleanor, Vanessa and me are all feeling a bit like a truck ran us over. Me, I actually feel like a train ran me over, since I am not only feeling ill, but all different parts of my body that are usually happy with me and how I treat it are in rebellion. Moving hurts. Alot.
The part that worries me the most is tomorrow. The second day after is always worse.
Today though, today is not so great. Thomas has been home sick from school the last two days, and in typical fashion, now that he is feeling better the rest of us are feeling it. Eleanor, Vanessa and me are all feeling a bit like a truck ran us over. Me, I actually feel like a train ran me over, since I am not only feeling ill, but all different parts of my body that are usually happy with me and how I treat it are in rebellion. Moving hurts. Alot.
The part that worries me the most is tomorrow. The second day after is always worse.
Thursday, October 9, 2008
war stories
I'm reading the book of Joshua right now, trying to find something worth quoting here. I am intrigued by this story, and I find myself unable to break it down in to one specific quote, or "lesson" for the day.
The general gist of what I am reading now is, Joshua has the nation of Army to lead back to Israel after spending 40 years in the dessert.
He is relying completely on the Lord to help him win the wars that will inevitably ensue after he tries to take back the land that others have now occupied for the 40 year trip in the dessert.
The part that is fascinating, is that chapter after chapter, we are told of how Joshua and his army were able to lay siege to the entire land "So Joshua took this entire land: the hill country, all the Negev, the whole region of Goshen, the western foothills, the Arabah and the mountains of Israel with their foothills" (joshua 11:16) and take conquer it for Israel.
All this could not have been done without the help of God, which leads me to the "lesson" for the day that I guess I do have after all:
Put your trust in God, listen to what he has to tell you. Do what He says, and He will give you all the help you need.
The general gist of what I am reading now is, Joshua has the nation of Army to lead back to Israel after spending 40 years in the dessert.
He is relying completely on the Lord to help him win the wars that will inevitably ensue after he tries to take back the land that others have now occupied for the 40 year trip in the dessert.
The part that is fascinating, is that chapter after chapter, we are told of how Joshua and his army were able to lay siege to the entire land "So Joshua took this entire land: the hill country, all the Negev, the whole region of Goshen, the western foothills, the Arabah and the mountains of Israel with their foothills" (joshua 11:16) and take conquer it for Israel.
All this could not have been done without the help of God, which leads me to the "lesson" for the day that I guess I do have after all:
Put your trust in God, listen to what he has to tell you. Do what He says, and He will give you all the help you need.
Thursday, October 2, 2008
octember
I am officially a procrastinating blogger. Every now and then I think of something to update the world with, and then get distracted by whatever else I am doing. Or, I get the time to update, and draw a blank on whats important.
Maybe I am too busy scheming how to swindle money from people?
Perhaps I am just spending time with my wife, because I like to. And she knows lots of ways for me to scheme money out of unsuspecting (or sometimes suspecting) family members. That's always good for a chuckle for us.
Or, I could be busy dealing with children who are not really sure how to deal with the untimely passing of their younger cousin, not to mention being there for the parents of said cousin;
the fact that not just one, but both parents of my wife and her siblings decided that it is easier to blame and point fingers about what went wrong, and make shit up about people that just isn't true so they can feel good about their decision to alienate their family;
let's not forget about the fire at work;
and I could go on, but I think that it may sound like I am beginning to whine. That really is not what I started out to do, and I hope it didn't sound that way. Deep breath...and
We are well. Things are far from perfect at our house, but we will survive. Grade 1 & 2 will come and pass. We will thrive, knowing that God is with us, always.
And soon will return the frequent bible study posts, quick verses and my thoughts on them.
Maybe I am too busy scheming how to swindle money from people?
Perhaps I am just spending time with my wife, because I like to. And she knows lots of ways for me to scheme money out of unsuspecting (or sometimes suspecting) family members. That's always good for a chuckle for us.
Or, I could be busy dealing with children who are not really sure how to deal with the untimely passing of their younger cousin, not to mention being there for the parents of said cousin;
the fact that not just one, but both parents of my wife and her siblings decided that it is easier to blame and point fingers about what went wrong, and make shit up about people that just isn't true so they can feel good about their decision to alienate their family;
let's not forget about the fire at work;
and I could go on, but I think that it may sound like I am beginning to whine. That really is not what I started out to do, and I hope it didn't sound that way. Deep breath...and
We are well. Things are far from perfect at our house, but we will survive. Grade 1 & 2 will come and pass. We will thrive, knowing that God is with us, always.
And soon will return the frequent bible study posts, quick verses and my thoughts on them.
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
P.O.W.
Hi Internet!
I have missed you, your unfortunate capture by the evil communications company has finally come to an end. It's not bad enough that we had to pack up all of our stuff into boxes, throw them in a truck and then unload them all. All the stairs...up, down, up, down, all day long. No, not bad enough that we still have stuff in boxes all over the house. The nasty "don't 'Tell-us' about it because we don't really care anyway" company took you over, and refused to relinquish control until today.
Don't think I abandoned you, internet. I was fighting with all my might to get you back sooner. I just don't have the power to compete with such a dominating force. Alas, you are safe. You have been returned to me, and the good news is you seem to be just as I left you. Waiting, albeit patiently, to be returned to your home with us.
Welcome back, internet.
I have missed you, your unfortunate capture by the evil communications company has finally come to an end. It's not bad enough that we had to pack up all of our stuff into boxes, throw them in a truck and then unload them all. All the stairs...up, down, up, down, all day long. No, not bad enough that we still have stuff in boxes all over the house. The nasty "don't 'Tell-us' about it because we don't really care anyway" company took you over, and refused to relinquish control until today.
Don't think I abandoned you, internet. I was fighting with all my might to get you back sooner. I just don't have the power to compete with such a dominating force. Alas, you are safe. You have been returned to me, and the good news is you seem to be just as I left you. Waiting, albeit patiently, to be returned to your home with us.
Welcome back, internet.
Saturday, August 23, 2008
sound byte from inside my head
I hate packing and moving. Even when I am excited about the new place, the packing and moving is disliked. A lot.
Monday, August 11, 2008
schmap
Last year at the Children's Museum in Seattle, I took a picture of Vanessa painting a picture. I posted this picture on flickr (which was probably the last time I posted anything on flickr...sad, it's been almost a year). Anyway, I am now published in the "schmap" of NW washington.
I have added the widget to the side of the page, check it out. Look for the children's museum, and you will see the picture. Fun Times!
I have added the widget to the side of the page, check it out. Look for the children's museum, and you will see the picture. Fun Times!
Saturday, August 9, 2008
requested
In an interesting turn of events, the baseball tournament was lost to us in the quarter finals. Turns out when you have 19 players show up for baseball, you end up having a hard time managing the subs. The good news is, the basketball game was won by us. 1-2 record now, so nice that we didn't get swept.
I have been requested to give some ideas on what I would like for my birthday, which will be coming up next weekend. Here goes...
-stethoscope
-moving truck for the end of the month
-dress shirts for work (16 neck, 36-37 arm)
-Wii
-a new windshield for the Focus
-some new cd's:
----third day
----chris tomlin
----brandon heath (check the spelling on that one)
----the newest mercyme (not sure what it's called)
-Planet Earth/Blue Planet DVD series
That's it for now. Happy weekend everyone.
I have been requested to give some ideas on what I would like for my birthday, which will be coming up next weekend. Here goes...
-stethoscope
-moving truck for the end of the month
-dress shirts for work (16 neck, 36-37 arm)
-Wii
-a new windshield for the Focus
-some new cd's:
----third day
----chris tomlin
----brandon heath (check the spelling on that one)
----the newest mercyme (not sure what it's called)
-Planet Earth/Blue Planet DVD series
That's it for now. Happy weekend everyone.
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
ball-a-thon
Tomorrow is the annual {corporate restaurant name here} baseball tournament. Starts at 9am, and goes pretty much all day (if we keep winning, which we should, as the defending champs our team looks really good). Some dinner, maybe a hot tub, then off to basketball at night. We're hoping to maybe win our first game of the season (0-2 so far). Good times...
I think that on Thursday I may be a bit broken in the body. Right now, I have to go and get ready for tomorrow. This will involve tylenol for my screaming headache, and some R&R on the couch.
For those of you missing the daily (or quasi-daily) messages from the bible, I think that they are pretty much on hold until September. I may get one or two in, but this month is chalk full of stuff to do and I don't think I can get the discipline together yet. Soon...
I think that on Thursday I may be a bit broken in the body. Right now, I have to go and get ready for tomorrow. This will involve tylenol for my screaming headache, and some R&R on the couch.
For those of you missing the daily (or quasi-daily) messages from the bible, I think that they are pretty much on hold until September. I may get one or two in, but this month is chalk full of stuff to do and I don't think I can get the discipline together yet. Soon...
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
time stands still for no sun
A bit of a delay since the last post I see. I never did spend any time trying to get the picture uploaded from the last post. Take my word for it, it was good.
We have been very busy the last week, going to see Ryder at Canuck place, checking out the fireworks on the weekend (which were awesome, I just wish that one visit to the 2nd beach pool in Stanley Park would result in sunshine and hot temperatures instead of clouds, wind and rain), ice skating on Friday for Thomas' birthday. I spent most of Thursday embarrassing myself on the golf course with my boss. I went in to it with having fully disclosed my lack of golfing prowess, so he wasn't surprised, just entertained.
The next month brings with it a lot of stuff going on as well. Eleanor and I have birthday's (so do my Dad, Fiona, Nicole...the list goes on) along with a baseball tournament at work, a devo* outing to Whistler (90% chance it will happen). There are more things I'm sure, but I'm really too lazy to make the rest of the list.
Part of what I need to do is get my ducks lined up for my application to the PCP program. I seem to be distracted by all the goings on of summer, and time keeps fleeting past without any progress on this subject. I have negotiated the contract at work to keep us happy until the course, but I need to get in to this course. So, add that to the list of stuff to do in August. I really will try to post when I can. If it seems light though, you can count on the fact that it must have been sunny.
*"devo" is a term we use for a staff developer, or trainer. simple, eh?
We have been very busy the last week, going to see Ryder at Canuck place, checking out the fireworks on the weekend (which were awesome, I just wish that one visit to the 2nd beach pool in Stanley Park would result in sunshine and hot temperatures instead of clouds, wind and rain), ice skating on Friday for Thomas' birthday. I spent most of Thursday embarrassing myself on the golf course with my boss. I went in to it with having fully disclosed my lack of golfing prowess, so he wasn't surprised, just entertained.
The next month brings with it a lot of stuff going on as well. Eleanor and I have birthday's (so do my Dad, Fiona, Nicole...the list goes on) along with a baseball tournament at work, a devo* outing to Whistler (90% chance it will happen). There are more things I'm sure, but I'm really too lazy to make the rest of the list.
Part of what I need to do is get my ducks lined up for my application to the PCP program. I seem to be distracted by all the goings on of summer, and time keeps fleeting past without any progress on this subject. I have negotiated the contract at work to keep us happy until the course, but I need to get in to this course. So, add that to the list of stuff to do in August. I really will try to post when I can. If it seems light though, you can count on the fact that it must have been sunny.
*"devo" is a term we use for a staff developer, or trainer. simple, eh?
Monday, July 14, 2008
stanley park adventures
It was a well intentioned trip that didn't pay much attention to the weather forecast before we left home. It was a beautiful sunny day, and until we left the house (read - cave) we hadn't really noticed that there were 65km/hour winds accompanying the sunshine on Thursday. We took a trip down to second beach at Stanley park, hoping to spend some time in the Best Outdoor Pool ever, picnic in the park, enjoy the playground and such. We ended up picnicking in the car, because we didn't really want our food to blow away.
During our walk, the kids had to check out the shells, barnacles and other findings on the beach. Right before we were ready to move on, Thomas stopped us for this photo op with Eleanor. They are riding a "surfboard", which is apparently the new cool thing to do.
I love summer.
note: there is supposed to be a picture attached, which I am currently having issues uploading. Will try again later. (by later I mean maybe in a couple days, when I have 3 minutes to think)
During our walk, the kids had to check out the shells, barnacles and other findings on the beach. Right before we were ready to move on, Thomas stopped us for this photo op with Eleanor. They are riding a "surfboard", which is apparently the new cool thing to do.
I love summer.
note: there is supposed to be a picture attached, which I am currently having issues uploading. Will try again later. (by later I mean maybe in a couple days, when I have 3 minutes to think)
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
summer storms
One of the things that I truly enjoy about summer time are the thunder showers. I really miss being in Trail, sitting on the balcony of our house that cost less to rent than our bitty basement, and watching & listening to the lightning and thunder roll through the columbia river valley. The echo of the thunder, the sound of the rain falling-each drop racing each other to the ground.
Go BC!
Go BC!
Saturday, June 28, 2008
reacta-dryl
It turns out that double the does of reactine, and then later in the day benadryl, will in fact turn off the taps. I'm sure that there are parts of my inner body that are secretly being destroyed, but my nose is such a glory that my brain has declined to acknowledge this fact.
In related news, I tried switch hitting at the driving range the other day, and now I think that my shoulder is broken.
In related news, I tried switch hitting at the driving range the other day, and now I think that my shoulder is broken.
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
turn off the taps
That's it. I've had enough. I am completely done with having a runny nose. It's like a leaky tap that just won't shut off. It doesn't seem to matter what kind or how much allergy medication I take, the tap just won't stop.
It is driving me crazy!
It is driving me crazy!
Thursday, June 19, 2008
as doubt creeps in
I am not sure why, but for some reason I seem to be entertaining the notion of staying with {corporate restaurant name here} until the new year. I was offered the possibility of a raise, if I would commit to then. I am not really sure why I am considering it. I think it is because that would be the easy choice, which would allow me to maintain status quo and not have to make any major life changes. Well, not just that, but the benefit of the kids staying at the same school for another year or two, instead of having to change once now and again when I take the PCP.
To move would take a lot of planning, a lot of changes and decisions. I want to know that this is the right choice first, but really it isn't up to me. It's up to God.
As I come home from the final night of Freedom Session, the graduation complete, I am reminded that I need to listen to what God is trying to tell me. The one rule in life that I am really trying to live by is "do the last thing that God wanted to you do". All you have to do is follow that rule, and He will be sure to take care of you, and deliver on His promises. The struggle is: taking the time to listen to Him, and having the courage to act on it. I know I need to spend more time listening. The funny thing is, even though I know this, I still choose not to.
I look forward to the Thursday night meetings of the "triad", now that Freedom Session is over, my group of dudes that will hold me accountable to listen to God and encourage me to act on what I hear.
To move would take a lot of planning, a lot of changes and decisions. I want to know that this is the right choice first, but really it isn't up to me. It's up to God.
As I come home from the final night of Freedom Session, the graduation complete, I am reminded that I need to listen to what God is trying to tell me. The one rule in life that I am really trying to live by is "do the last thing that God wanted to you do". All you have to do is follow that rule, and He will be sure to take care of you, and deliver on His promises. The struggle is: taking the time to listen to Him, and having the courage to act on it. I know I need to spend more time listening. The funny thing is, even though I know this, I still choose not to.
I look forward to the Thursday night meetings of the "triad", now that Freedom Session is over, my group of dudes that will hold me accountable to listen to God and encourage me to act on what I hear.
Monday, June 16, 2008
Knomes
Knomes = fun and good times. We had a baseball tournament this weekend, my family and I. Vanessa and the kids didn't play, but pretty much the rest of my family was in on it. We had a good time, and that is the important thing. I say this, because we didn't win more than one game, but who's counting. We had some tough teams to play against, teams that recruited people with semi-professional ball player status. So whatever, we couldn't score very much on them, but we had some good, solid defense against them. For a couple innings.
I did have to cut the festivities short for Sunday though, and go to work at 4. Did I mention that I have had enough of working there? I think I have mentioned it, but one more time just in case you missed it. I have lost all desire to be a restaurant manager. Too bad, since there seems to be a major crisis going on with the shortage of managers in {insert corporate restaurant name here} . Maybe someone should think about keeping the managers happy, and maybe they would stick around for a while. Just a thought.
Time to head off to bed, since I have to work at 9am. Nothing quite like being scheduled to close, then open. Someone should make a law about how much time you need to have in between shifts...wait...I think there is. Hmmm. I wonder why everyone is leaving the position...??
I did have to cut the festivities short for Sunday though, and go to work at 4. Did I mention that I have had enough of working there? I think I have mentioned it, but one more time just in case you missed it. I have lost all desire to be a restaurant manager. Too bad, since there seems to be a major crisis going on with the shortage of managers in {insert corporate restaurant name here} . Maybe someone should think about keeping the managers happy, and maybe they would stick around for a while. Just a thought.
Time to head off to bed, since I have to work at 9am. Nothing quite like being scheduled to close, then open. Someone should make a law about how much time you need to have in between shifts...wait...I think there is. Hmmm. I wonder why everyone is leaving the position...??
Friday, June 13, 2008
check 1,2
This morning I was able to check off another item in the List To Complete To Apply For PCP. (that's primary care paramedic, not crystal meth). The criminal record check has been ordered, and for $42.00 I will be once again proven clear of ever having had trouble with the law*.
Anyway, I have come to realize that I can not soon enough get out of the restaurant and in to the BC ambulance service. Until then, I will just have to suck it up and bear it, but I will make it known-I don't want to be there.
*(read:being caught)
Anyway, I have come to realize that I can not soon enough get out of the restaurant and in to the BC ambulance service. Until then, I will just have to suck it up and bear it, but I will make it known-I don't want to be there.
*(read:being caught)
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
kindergarten graduation =
silly. I don't really understand the purpose. Maybe one day I will understand, but as of tonight-not really sure why we go and give a certificate of graduation to the kindergarten class. I know they worked hard all year, but really, didn't all of the grades? Why limit it to the first and last year students?
Oh, and in case you didn't know? I have the Best Wife Ever, it's official. She took the time to pick the mushrooms out of my dinner tonight, without being asked/coerced/poked and or prodded to do so. BEST EVER!
Oh, and in case you didn't know? I have the Best Wife Ever, it's official. She took the time to pick the mushrooms out of my dinner tonight, without being asked/coerced/poked and or prodded to do so. BEST EVER!
Monday, June 9, 2008
it's official
I now am the proud owner of a certificate of completion from the Justice Institute of B.C. It turns out that spending 3 weeks of your life doing nothing but reading & practicing emergency medicine, with the occasional dinner with the family, really pays off.
The biggest question now is, what do I do with it? Do I spend $450 to take the actual EMA licensing board test to be allowed to practice? Do I wait, and keep doing what I am doing until I get into the PCP (primary care paramedic) program, which either involves waiting until next May to take it here in the Lower Mainland or moving to Van Island to take it in January? Do I do both? If I get a job, it will probably involve a move, and unless I wait a year, school will involve a move too. I can't really do neither...
Any suggestions internet? Move for work, move for school, move for both? {Que up The Clash, with the ever popular "should I stay or should I go"}
The biggest question now is, what do I do with it? Do I spend $450 to take the actual EMA licensing board test to be allowed to practice? Do I wait, and keep doing what I am doing until I get into the PCP (primary care paramedic) program, which either involves waiting until next May to take it here in the Lower Mainland or moving to Van Island to take it in January? Do I do both? If I get a job, it will probably involve a move, and unless I wait a year, school will involve a move too. I can't really do neither...
Any suggestions internet? Move for work, move for school, move for both? {Que up The Clash, with the ever popular "should I stay or should I go"}
Sunday, June 8, 2008
as panic sets in
I think about studying. I dream about the final exam. I even go to the Justice Institute to meet up with my fellow classmates to do some practice. We do some rolls, dust off the AED, look up some incidents on the J.I. website. We have lunch, and all seem to be decidedly done with the practice. No-one appears overly nervous about tomorrow, including me.
And then I come home, and since the house is empty and quiet, I decide a nap will be the perfect thing for Sunday afternoon. It was really a good nap. A fine nap indeed.
The problem now, now that the nap is over, the practice is done, and tomorrow looms closer and closer: the panic is setting in. I can't bring myself to open up the books and begin studying, but my brain decides to run in to overdrive all the same. Situations, skills, happenings, indications and contraindications all keep racing through my head. Doubt creeps in, do I know how to deal with this? What if this comes up on the test? We haven't even looked at how to care for burns for a week, and what if that happens? When do I pull the burn kit out?
I know that this is what God is calling me to do. I know that this is what I will be good at, I have been given a gift of caring & healing. Why then does my whole body feel like there is an electrical current running through me, charging me up, making my muscles tingle with anticipation? Why do I feel this hesitation to open up the books and review one more time the sequence of the patient assessment, and when to use interventions and what guidelines are attached?
How will I keep the panic from setting in Monday morning when it is my turn to show that I am capable of saving a life?
And then I come home, and since the house is empty and quiet, I decide a nap will be the perfect thing for Sunday afternoon. It was really a good nap. A fine nap indeed.
The problem now, now that the nap is over, the practice is done, and tomorrow looms closer and closer: the panic is setting in. I can't bring myself to open up the books and begin studying, but my brain decides to run in to overdrive all the same. Situations, skills, happenings, indications and contraindications all keep racing through my head. Doubt creeps in, do I know how to deal with this? What if this comes up on the test? We haven't even looked at how to care for burns for a week, and what if that happens? When do I pull the burn kit out?
I know that this is what God is calling me to do. I know that this is what I will be good at, I have been given a gift of caring & healing. Why then does my whole body feel like there is an electrical current running through me, charging me up, making my muscles tingle with anticipation? Why do I feel this hesitation to open up the books and review one more time the sequence of the patient assessment, and when to use interventions and what guidelines are attached?
How will I keep the panic from setting in Monday morning when it is my turn to show that I am capable of saving a life?
Friday, June 6, 2008
closing in on closing day
I find it a bit hard to believe that 3 weeks has gone by already. I have a half day of school today, then a final exam. Then, on Monday, it's all day finals. And then that's it. Back to work on Tuesday, which is about a 98 on my List of Places I Would Like to Be on Tuesday.
Things I am going to miss about my class:
1) 2 "recesses" and an hour long lunch in an 8 hour day.
2) the "baconscope"
3) believe it or not, getting up at 6 everyday. I know I could keep doing it, but probably will have a hard time since there will be no real reason for it, and if I work at night, crashing at 10pm could be bad.
4) weekends off
Things I am not going to miss about my class:
1) "whale tail". Put on some pants that fit please everyone
2) people complaining about how short the course is. Seriously folks, did you have no idea it would be intense for the 3 weeks? Do some research next time...
3) a person that I don't think will pass this course continuing to ask questions about the next level up paramedic course. Focus on this one dude, so you can pass it first. The next one won't take you without this one.
4) not having time to do anything around the house and leaving it all for Vanessa to have to do
5) Sager splints too "close to home"
Things I am going to miss about my class:
1) 2 "recesses" and an hour long lunch in an 8 hour day.
2) the "baconscope"
3) believe it or not, getting up at 6 everyday. I know I could keep doing it, but probably will have a hard time since there will be no real reason for it, and if I work at night, crashing at 10pm could be bad.
4) weekends off
Things I am not going to miss about my class:
1) "whale tail". Put on some pants that fit please everyone
2) people complaining about how short the course is. Seriously folks, did you have no idea it would be intense for the 3 weeks? Do some research next time...
3) a person that I don't think will pass this course continuing to ask questions about the next level up paramedic course. Focus on this one dude, so you can pass it first. The next one won't take you without this one.
4) not having time to do anything around the house and leaving it all for Vanessa to have to do
5) Sager splints too "close to home"
Monday, June 2, 2008
a bit late
ok, so I didn't get back to you to discuss treasures in heaven. Sorry about that, I hadn't realized that it's been a week already. Time flies when you are filling your brain with information. If you read the passage though, you will maybe notice what really stood out to me as a call to action:
"You cannot serve both God and Money"
This may be hard for some, especially in the modernized western society that we live in. I find myself struggling with it to, every now and then when I see houses for sale, and note the distinct fact that we are not even close to getting in to one. That's ok though, cause we have a roof over our heads, walls that keep the wind and rain out, and warm dry blankets to keep us snug.
On to happier thoughts, EMR class seems to be going well. The daily quizzes are coming along nicely, and I think I have a good grasp of the practical side of things so far as well. I have to admit, I am a bit nervous about the final on Friday and the hands on exam on Monday.
Birch Bay weekend is coming up, and even though there will be an all day exam on Monday, I hope to make it down for an overnight visit with the family. My brother and his wife & kids will be there, as will my parents. The weather should be nice, and I look forward to taking the kids to the pool and getting some sunshine.
Much to my surprise, it took almost 2 weeks (13 days) for my GM to phone me and ask me a question about work. A question that he should have known the answer to, he is the GM for pete's sake. But to {insert corporate restaurant name here} I say:
Keep your restaurant. I'm going to be a Paramedic.
"You cannot serve both God and Money"
This may be hard for some, especially in the modernized western society that we live in. I find myself struggling with it to, every now and then when I see houses for sale, and note the distinct fact that we are not even close to getting in to one. That's ok though, cause we have a roof over our heads, walls that keep the wind and rain out, and warm dry blankets to keep us snug.
On to happier thoughts, EMR class seems to be going well. The daily quizzes are coming along nicely, and I think I have a good grasp of the practical side of things so far as well. I have to admit, I am a bit nervous about the final on Friday and the hands on exam on Monday.
Birch Bay weekend is coming up, and even though there will be an all day exam on Monday, I hope to make it down for an overnight visit with the family. My brother and his wife & kids will be there, as will my parents. The weather should be nice, and I look forward to taking the kids to the pool and getting some sunshine.
Much to my surprise, it took almost 2 weeks (13 days) for my GM to phone me and ask me a question about work. A question that he should have known the answer to, he is the GM for pete's sake. But to {insert corporate restaurant name here} I say:
Keep your restaurant. I'm going to be a Paramedic.
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
Thursday, May 22, 2008
5 Things I am thankful to God for today:
1) Keeping me safe on the bus/skytrain/bus
2) Helping me keep my sanity throughout the last 3 days. Already I have done more studying/homework than in my first 2 years of high school. By Monday, I expect it will top the entire gambit of homework done in all of high school. With two more weeks to go.
3) Giving me the confidence to get up every day, knowing that there is a big 300lb boxer that I paid to wait for me everyday called "EMR-100"
4) Keeping Vanessa and the kids sane while I am absent in the mornings.
5) The thought that I can actually still go to freedom session tonight and get my homework done.
Bonus reason: forgiving me for not doing any bible study so far this week.
2) Helping me keep my sanity throughout the last 3 days. Already I have done more studying/homework than in my first 2 years of high school. By Monday, I expect it will top the entire gambit of homework done in all of high school. With two more weeks to go.
3) Giving me the confidence to get up every day, knowing that there is a big 300lb boxer that I paid to wait for me everyday called "EMR-100"
4) Keeping Vanessa and the kids sane while I am absent in the mornings.
5) The thought that I can actually still go to freedom session tonight and get my homework done.
Bonus reason: forgiving me for not doing any bible study so far this week.
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
10 seconds away from studying
1) Tight jeans are NOT back in style. Please, please, no...especially on dudes.
2) Low rise jeans, thong underwear, and floor activities for EMR class DO NOT MIX!
3) If you don't have anything productive to say, or a useful question, SHHHHHHHH!
Thank you, come again.
2) Low rise jeans, thong underwear, and floor activities for EMR class DO NOT MIX!
3) If you don't have anything productive to say, or a useful question, SHHHHHHHH!
Thank you, come again.
Monday, May 19, 2008
the need for self discipline
It is great that I came across this passage the day before I start the intense 3 week EMR course.
Short and sweet, it's to the point. Run to get the prize at the end, not for an Earthly crown but for a crown that will last forever.
"Therefore I do not run like someone running aimlessly; I do not fight like a boxer beating the air. No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize"
I think the key message here is that we need to be disciplined in the way that God wants us to be. Spend time with him every day. The closer we get to God, the more He will be able to work through us. The more we let Him work through us, the more we will be blessed.
Short and sweet, it's to the point. Run to get the prize at the end, not for an Earthly crown but for a crown that will last forever.
"Therefore I do not run like someone running aimlessly; I do not fight like a boxer beating the air. No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize"
I think the key message here is that we need to be disciplined in the way that God wants us to be. Spend time with him every day. The closer we get to God, the more He will be able to work through us. The more we let Him work through us, the more we will be blessed.
Friday, May 16, 2008
note to self
when you work at a restaurant near the beach and not actually at the beach, people don't come to visit you on the Friday before a long weekend when it's 28 C outside.
Thursday, May 15, 2008
the power of Jesus
The story of Lazarus is a fairly popular one, but I've never really studied it until today. It tells of how Lazarus is sick, yet Jesus takes his time in going to see him, 2 days in fact, before he leaves.
Lazarus dies before Jesus gets there, but with God's power he is able to raise Lazarus to life again.
Worth a read, for sure, as we get a glimpse of just how powerful Jesus is. My favorite quote from this chapter is
"I am the resurrection and the life. Anyone who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die."
This really in itself is cause to let go of any worry or fear that we may have. Most of us see the worst possible outcome of a situation as death; this goes to show that if you are walking with Jesus, then you do not need to fear death, since you will have eternal life. So why worry?
Lazarus dies before Jesus gets there, but with God's power he is able to raise Lazarus to life again.
Worth a read, for sure, as we get a glimpse of just how powerful Jesus is. My favorite quote from this chapter is
"I am the resurrection and the life. Anyone who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die."
This really in itself is cause to let go of any worry or fear that we may have. Most of us see the worst possible outcome of a situation as death; this goes to show that if you are walking with Jesus, then you do not need to fear death, since you will have eternal life. So why worry?
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
after happily ever after
Last night my beautiful wife and I went to the Focus on the Family marriage conference. It was definitely interesting, funny, and had some good insights into what makes a marriage last. Well, not just last, but thrive for decades.
Part of how we ended up going was that we volunteered, and helped at the bookstore during the pre-show and intermission. It was easy work, and it gave us a chance to scan the crowds for anyone we knew.
Because of this event though, I wasn't able to do any studies yesterday. This is ok though, because at the event there was some good teaching. One of the important bits of teaching that spoke to me was all about affirming your spouse. Now this isn't rocket science, and I think that we all understand how important it is to affirm your wife, but have a read of this passage, and tell me if you don't think that your wife would be appreciative of hearing this on a daily basis.
Part of how we ended up going was that we volunteered, and helped at the bookstore during the pre-show and intermission. It was easy work, and it gave us a chance to scan the crowds for anyone we knew.
Because of this event though, I wasn't able to do any studies yesterday. This is ok though, because at the event there was some good teaching. One of the important bits of teaching that spoke to me was all about affirming your spouse. Now this isn't rocket science, and I think that we all understand how important it is to affirm your wife, but have a read of this passage, and tell me if you don't think that your wife would be appreciative of hearing this on a daily basis.
Monday, May 12, 2008
He kept calling, and calling
The day after Mother's day. I still haven't quite recovered from yesterday. It isn't that it went badly. In fact, it went amazingly well. We did almost the same amount of sales as the Langley store did last year, and we are 1/3 the size. And the kitchen pumped out the food like nobody's business. I mean nobody's.
It was EPIC. (yes, worth the capitals)
Alas, today begins a new week. A week full of it's own tasks and challenges, important and urgent things to be done.
Tonight I was reading this out of the book of 1 Samuel. What really struck me as special was the fact that God kept calling to Samuel, even though Samuel didn't know it was Him calling. What makes it stand out is this:
"Now Samuel did not yet know the LORD : The word of the LORD had not yet been revealed to him."
Instead of getting angry, or giving up, God patiently calls until he finally Samuel figures out that it's God.
The fact that God loves us enough to just keep calling, keep inviting us in to his life, even when we are completely oblivious to it gives so much hope for us all. There is a popular christian song out right now and in the chorus there is a line that asks the question "Is there hope for every man?"
Absolutely.
It was EPIC. (yes, worth the capitals)
Alas, today begins a new week. A week full of it's own tasks and challenges, important and urgent things to be done.
Tonight I was reading this out of the book of 1 Samuel. What really struck me as special was the fact that God kept calling to Samuel, even though Samuel didn't know it was Him calling. What makes it stand out is this:
"Now Samuel did not yet know the LORD : The word of the LORD had not yet been revealed to him."
Instead of getting angry, or giving up, God patiently calls until he finally Samuel figures out that it's God.
The fact that God loves us enough to just keep calling, keep inviting us in to his life, even when we are completely oblivious to it gives so much hope for us all. There is a popular christian song out right now and in the chorus there is a line that asks the question "Is there hope for every man?"
Absolutely.
Sunday, May 11, 2008
how I stay sane
Happy Mother's day baby! Insert clever and witty dialogue {here}... I really don't have the words to say how awesome you are, how great it is to have you around everyday, and how blessed I am that you are here to stick it out to the end with me.
Saturday, May 10, 2008
knowing our weakness'
To start, I think that everyone in South Surrey thought today was Sunday, instead of Saturday, because we were that busy. Add that to everyone and their dog phoning for a reservation for tomorrow (Mother's day, the SuperBowl of all days in restaurant land) and it was non-stop all day.
A bit of quiet time at home, and I have looked up today's passage.
I see this as a very uplifting bit of scripture. It points out that our Saviour lived life on this Earth, and had to live through the same temptations that we are faced with every day. Well, maybe not every temptation, I'm sure there were no Porche 911 twin turbo's or 52 inch LCD HDTV with Gold Plated Inputs and 1080pi. (is that even a real feature, 1080pi?) I'm sure there was the equivalant though, and I'm sure that he knows how much we might want these toys. The point is, he went through it. Sure, he was able to live a sinless life, but he was the Son of God, so we can't be expected to live up to those standards. God wants us to, and we need to try as much as we can to be sinless, but God knows as well as we do that it is impossible, that is why Jesus came to save us.
"Let us then approach God's throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need". (Heb 4:16)
An we are all in a time of need, and all we need to do is ask Him for help.
A bit of quiet time at home, and I have looked up today's passage.
I see this as a very uplifting bit of scripture. It points out that our Saviour lived life on this Earth, and had to live through the same temptations that we are faced with every day. Well, maybe not every temptation, I'm sure there were no Porche 911 twin turbo's or 52 inch LCD HDTV with Gold Plated Inputs and 1080pi. (is that even a real feature, 1080pi?) I'm sure there was the equivalant though, and I'm sure that he knows how much we might want these toys. The point is, he went through it. Sure, he was able to live a sinless life, but he was the Son of God, so we can't be expected to live up to those standards. God wants us to, and we need to try as much as we can to be sinless, but God knows as well as we do that it is impossible, that is why Jesus came to save us.
"Let us then approach God's throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need". (Heb 4:16)
An we are all in a time of need, and all we need to do is ask Him for help.
Friday, May 9, 2008
urgency
Last night I read an article (Tyranny of the Urgent, by Charles E. Hummel) about our busy lives and taking the time for God. It talked about doing the urgent things in our lives versus the important things, and how we get caught up with stuff. Even if we had more hours in a day, we wouldn't get everything accomplished.
To me, this means that I need to take the time for daily learning and interaction with God. It's funny how this ties in with what was revealed to me on our weekend retreat, even though the two were not really planned to tie together. (isn't God smart, planning these things out)
This morning's bible reading (philippians 3:7-11) talks about the gains of this world versus the gains of a life in Christ. "I have lost everything for Him. And I think of these things as worth nothing so that I can have Christ." So much of our time and energy is spent trying to get "stuff". Bigger house, faster car, flat screen tv's that take up half the wall in the living room, flashy jewels. In fact, we spend so much time trying to get these things to impress the world, to comfort ourselves, that we lose touch with why God has given us time on Earth. We forget our purpose, and start focusing on the urgent yet eternally meaningless tasks instead of focusing our attention on what is important in life, and important to God.
Do you know your purpose yet?
To me, this means that I need to take the time for daily learning and interaction with God. It's funny how this ties in with what was revealed to me on our weekend retreat, even though the two were not really planned to tie together. (isn't God smart, planning these things out)
This morning's bible reading (philippians 3:7-11) talks about the gains of this world versus the gains of a life in Christ. "I have lost everything for Him. And I think of these things as worth nothing so that I can have Christ." So much of our time and energy is spent trying to get "stuff". Bigger house, faster car, flat screen tv's that take up half the wall in the living room, flashy jewels. In fact, we spend so much time trying to get these things to impress the world, to comfort ourselves, that we lose touch with why God has given us time on Earth. We forget our purpose, and start focusing on the urgent yet eternally meaningless tasks instead of focusing our attention on what is important in life, and important to God.
Do you know your purpose yet?
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
on tithing
Overhearing a conversation this weekend caused me to look up this verse. It's definitely worth having a look at, and worth having a look at finances to see where the priorities really are.
Tuesday, May 6, 2008
taking a turn
I spent last weekend at a camp just outside of Cultas Lake, in Chilliwack B.C. Besides being one of the most beautiful places to spend a weekend, it was an amazing experience for me.
While there, I was surrounded by over a hundred fellow men from my church, looking to spend a weekend getting closer to God, bonding with men, and having some quiet time.
What we got was an experience of a lifetime, I can not even begin to explain here what an impact this weekends teaching and worship time had on my life. I felt God working in me, and I know that there was not a single man there that wasn't feeling the same spirit moving in him.
I will be taking a bit of a turn here with what I blog about, making it more of a journal and a place to record what I come across as I read the Bible, and the truths that come to me. I will still post the witty anecdote and tale of life as a Dad, soon to be a Dad who is taking an EMR program so he can change professions soon, but that will not be the main focus.
I can only hope that what I write will touch someone out there, possibly open some eyes, ease some pain, answer some questions, or make you laugh. If you feel particularly touched about something that you read here, please leave a comment, as I would love to hear about it.
While there, I was surrounded by over a hundred fellow men from my church, looking to spend a weekend getting closer to God, bonding with men, and having some quiet time.
What we got was an experience of a lifetime, I can not even begin to explain here what an impact this weekends teaching and worship time had on my life. I felt God working in me, and I know that there was not a single man there that wasn't feeling the same spirit moving in him.
I will be taking a bit of a turn here with what I blog about, making it more of a journal and a place to record what I come across as I read the Bible, and the truths that come to me. I will still post the witty anecdote and tale of life as a Dad, soon to be a Dad who is taking an EMR program so he can change professions soon, but that will not be the main focus.
I can only hope that what I write will touch someone out there, possibly open some eyes, ease some pain, answer some questions, or make you laugh. If you feel particularly touched about something that you read here, please leave a comment, as I would love to hear about it.
Friday, April 18, 2008
the update that never happened
I know, I said I was going to give you an update about our anniversary weekend. Then, I went to bed. Next thing I knew, the rest of the week was gone, and now it's today. So, I have decided that the update will be quick. Here goes:
Thursday - um, something during the day...then baseball for Thomas at 6. Then freedom session.
Friday - shopping in the USA, lunch and back for a movie in the afternoon. Hotel room at the Ocean Promenade and then dinner at the Keg. Super delicious.
Saturday - sleep in, then baseball for Thomas in the sunshine. The warmest, sunniest day of the whole year. Quick sunburn, and I forget the rest of the day. We did something.
Next up for me: EMR class starts on May 20. It's going to be a crazy 3 weeks, and I am not really sure how I am going to survive it.
Thursday - um, something during the day...then baseball for Thomas at 6. Then freedom session.
Friday - shopping in the USA, lunch and back for a movie in the afternoon. Hotel room at the Ocean Promenade and then dinner at the Keg. Super delicious.
Saturday - sleep in, then baseball for Thomas in the sunshine. The warmest, sunniest day of the whole year. Quick sunburn, and I forget the rest of the day. We did something.
Next up for me: EMR class starts on May 20. It's going to be a crazy 3 weeks, and I am not really sure how I am going to survive it.
Sunday, April 13, 2008
only 9?
This weekend has been a super busy one for us. It started Thursday with the first of 3 days off for me, which happened to be our 9th wedding anniversary.
I hope to be around more, maybe tomorrow or Tuesday to tell you more about the happenings. Right now, my eyelids are weighing me down far to much to share.
I hope to be around more, maybe tomorrow or Tuesday to tell you more about the happenings. Right now, my eyelids are weighing me down far to much to share.
Friday, April 4, 2008
DVD's & TV collections
I know that the big thing for the hollywood studios now is to put all of their previously successful shows into collections. 24 - season 1. Seinfeld, season's 1 through 8 or whatever (sorry, not sure of the exact number of seasons of Seinfeld. Not that there is anything wrong with that.)
There are all sorts of shows popping up now, some that make us say awww, I am so happy they came back with that so we could see it again. Like the Simpsons.
And then there are the shows that had their 15 minutes, and should have stayed in the archives. The most recent one of these that has reared it's long forgotten head - Punky Brewster, season 1. So happy my wife found it, and deemed it necessary to let the kids in on it.
Currently getting a little bit closer to crazy as they watch...
There are all sorts of shows popping up now, some that make us say awww, I am so happy they came back with that so we could see it again. Like the Simpsons.
And then there are the shows that had their 15 minutes, and should have stayed in the archives. The most recent one of these that has reared it's long forgotten head - Punky Brewster, season 1. So happy my wife found it, and deemed it necessary to let the kids in on it.
Currently getting a little bit closer to crazy as they watch...
Thursday, March 27, 2008
90%
This is how sure I am that sometime in the next 3 months I will be vindicated. I will hear the much awaited and anticipated "you were right, we were wrong" in regards to the lame excuse for a GM they put in to the Langley store instead of me.
"Can't inspire a restaurant" is what they say about me. Well, at the very least I don't show up to the annual staff appreciation night hammered from the start. And when it is time for me to address the masses and thank them, praise them, rally them for a strong year? Well, what I don't do is say as little as possible and slink away in to the shadows.
Vindication will be mine.
"Can't inspire a restaurant" is what they say about me. Well, at the very least I don't show up to the annual staff appreciation night hammered from the start. And when it is time for me to address the masses and thank them, praise them, rally them for a strong year? Well, what I don't do is say as little as possible and slink away in to the shadows.
Vindication will be mine.
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
cough much?
There has a been a large case of hacking, wheezing, high temperatures and headaches around our house for the past week. The cold that the kids had that we were sure was going away came back for round two. It's taken me out, both the kids, and just yesterday decided to add one more to the list by kicking Vanessa in the pants.
So much for the kids going back to school this week...
So much for the kids going back to school this week...
Sunday, March 16, 2008
irony
There is nothing that makes a Sunday brunch shift better than being "the assistant manager who could be a GM but will never be allowed to" that gets to train "the GM who is but shouldn't be" how to do his job.
Oh how I look forward to starting paramedic school.
Oh how I look forward to starting paramedic school.
Thursday, March 6, 2008
golf balls
Yesterday we were at the thrift store in Abbotsford, looking for the sofabed that we saw last week. We decided to return and buy the sofa, with the dream of one day having a home that was big enough to use it.
The sofa had sold in the 6 days since we were there last, much to our disappointment. While we were checking out the other various goods (which takes a while, it's a huge store/complex) I came across the "sports" section. There wasn't too much there, except a few packages of new golf balls. Since I tend to lose a lot when I golf, I thought it would be prudent to pick some up since they were so much cheaper than anywhere else.
Thomas and I tire of looking in the store, but Vanessa is still looking for the perfect find. So, we go out to the car and wait. I brought the golf balls out with us, and put them in the trunk. We had been hanging out in the car for a few minutes when Vanessa and Eleanor finally return to the car. Just as they do, Thomas asks me
T: "Daddy, can I see your balls?"
Me: "um, pardon?"
T: "Can I see your balls?"
Me: "oh sure, of course you can see my balls."
Yeah, so I can't tell you how funny that was. I tried, but I don't know that in reading it you can see just how funny it was. This led to a number of further jokes about balls (golf, of course) all through the rest of the day, none of which Thomas or Eleanor picked up on.
The sofa had sold in the 6 days since we were there last, much to our disappointment. While we were checking out the other various goods (which takes a while, it's a huge store/complex) I came across the "sports" section. There wasn't too much there, except a few packages of new golf balls. Since I tend to lose a lot when I golf, I thought it would be prudent to pick some up since they were so much cheaper than anywhere else.
Thomas and I tire of looking in the store, but Vanessa is still looking for the perfect find. So, we go out to the car and wait. I brought the golf balls out with us, and put them in the trunk. We had been hanging out in the car for a few minutes when Vanessa and Eleanor finally return to the car. Just as they do, Thomas asks me
T: "Daddy, can I see your balls?"
Me: "um, pardon?"
T: "Can I see your balls?"
Me: "oh sure, of course you can see my balls."
Yeah, so I can't tell you how funny that was. I tried, but I don't know that in reading it you can see just how funny it was. This led to a number of further jokes about balls (golf, of course) all through the rest of the day, none of which Thomas or Eleanor picked up on.
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
on a scale of one to random
Last Friday I received a phone call. It was from my boss' boss, and he wanted to have a talk with me about an opportunity. This is the same boss' boss that I had a chat with a few weeks ago. Now, as you may have heard from a previous post, at this point I already know that it's a given that I will not move into a GM position with this company, straight from the director's mouth. Whatever. I'm past that now. Really. Sort of.
The opportunity he mentioned was to help with the installation of an upgrade to our operating software, in each of the restaurants across the country. I have a knack for training, and seem to be better with the software than the majority of the people that I work with, and the idea is that I would be the guy who shows all the people how to use it.
I know that I am not all that brilliant on the computer, it did take me about 3 months to figure out how to do something as simple as make a link in a blog. Anyway, I have that figured out now, so don't give me grief. I didn't see any of you offering up help...
So, I say that it sounds interesting, he says he'll call Monday with more information. Monday passes, and Tuesday rolls around. My other boss comes by today, and talks with my GM about my schedule for next week, and how he (GM) needs to free me up for Monday/Tuesday, since the plan is for me to be in North Vancouver on Monday and Calgary on Tuesday.
Um, hi there. Did someone think to let me know that I will be making a trip to Calgary? Next week? Is it an overnighter? Do I get to know what the actual programs look like before I have to teach people how to use them? IS THIS A PROJECT I EVEN WANT TO DO?
Really though, I think an overnighter to Calgary will be fun. I have never been on a day/overnight business trip before, just out of town "retreats" that end up being a ton of work. Hopefully I will find out by Friday just what the plan is. Until then, I will keep fishing for information on what exactly I will be teaching people. And if I get some kind of bonus...
The opportunity he mentioned was to help with the installation of an upgrade to our operating software, in each of the restaurants across the country. I have a knack for training, and seem to be better with the software than the majority of the people that I work with, and the idea is that I would be the guy who shows all the people how to use it.
I know that I am not all that brilliant on the computer, it did take me about 3 months to figure out how to do something as simple as make a link in a blog. Anyway, I have that figured out now, so don't give me grief. I didn't see any of you offering up help...
So, I say that it sounds interesting, he says he'll call Monday with more information. Monday passes, and Tuesday rolls around. My other boss comes by today, and talks with my GM about my schedule for next week, and how he (GM) needs to free me up for Monday/Tuesday, since the plan is for me to be in North Vancouver on Monday and Calgary on Tuesday.
Um, hi there. Did someone think to let me know that I will be making a trip to Calgary? Next week? Is it an overnighter? Do I get to know what the actual programs look like before I have to teach people how to use them? IS THIS A PROJECT I EVEN WANT TO DO?
Really though, I think an overnighter to Calgary will be fun. I have never been on a day/overnight business trip before, just out of town "retreats" that end up being a ton of work. Hopefully I will find out by Friday just what the plan is. Until then, I will keep fishing for information on what exactly I will be teaching people. And if I get some kind of bonus...
Monday, February 25, 2008
new music
Recommended for listening and purchase:
Newsboys: The Greatest Hits Collection.
16 favorites, 2 new songs. All worthwhile.
Newsboys: The Greatest Hits Collection.
16 favorites, 2 new songs. All worthwhile.
Sunday, February 24, 2008
the power of 4
I am noticing a lot of things seem to be relating to the number 4 right now.
After the 4th rejection of a GM position with my restaurant chain, I was provoked to write the possible career limiting letter to my bosses. In turn, I found out that it didn't really matter, my career was previously limited anyway.
The letter though did end up scoring me a meeting with the director of operations. We had a chat last week, which was good for my soul. It was also good, because I ended up scoring his tickets to the Vancouver/Detroit game last night, 7 rows up from the ice. I got to see both of Ryan Kesler's breakaway goals, up close and personal. That put the final score of the game last night 4-1 in Vancouver's favor.
This morning, I got up early. Well, I guess it wasn't really early, it just seemed early. 6:45am is when we usually try to get up when it's a school day, so there isn't too much rushing around to get ready. Alas, today is Sunday, which means we should all be sleeping in until 10 or 11am. This doesn't usually happen, but it should. The big deal about today is there were not just 2 kids waking us up with the sun, but 4. Hunter & MacKenzie slept over last night, so the kids were all just waiting for each other to wake up to begin tearing all the toys out of their tidy homes and encouraging them to find new and exciting places all about the floors/beds/couches/floors. Did I mention the toys all over the floors? I can't imagine the toys ever knowing this much freedom, so far apart from their usual pile. I wonder if any are scared, now that they aren't right beside each other sharing their tiny space in a bin or a drawer. Left to the big, wide world; nothing but space all around them, with the constant threat of being stepped on by a running child, or sleepy adult. Maybe they are learning that as much as freedom sounded like a good idea at the time, maybe they really were better off living in close quarters. At least they were safe.
Did I mention that I am home with all 4 of these children by myself? Vanessa has gone on a day trip to the USA with her sister. It's been 3 hours now, and the big question is: Will I survive the 4th?
After the 4th rejection of a GM position with my restaurant chain, I was provoked to write the possible career limiting letter to my bosses. In turn, I found out that it didn't really matter, my career was previously limited anyway.
The letter though did end up scoring me a meeting with the director of operations. We had a chat last week, which was good for my soul. It was also good, because I ended up scoring his tickets to the Vancouver/Detroit game last night, 7 rows up from the ice. I got to see both of Ryan Kesler's breakaway goals, up close and personal. That put the final score of the game last night 4-1 in Vancouver's favor.
This morning, I got up early. Well, I guess it wasn't really early, it just seemed early. 6:45am is when we usually try to get up when it's a school day, so there isn't too much rushing around to get ready. Alas, today is Sunday, which means we should all be sleeping in until 10 or 11am. This doesn't usually happen, but it should. The big deal about today is there were not just 2 kids waking us up with the sun, but 4. Hunter & MacKenzie slept over last night, so the kids were all just waiting for each other to wake up to begin tearing all the toys out of their tidy homes and encouraging them to find new and exciting places all about the floors/beds/couches/floors. Did I mention the toys all over the floors? I can't imagine the toys ever knowing this much freedom, so far apart from their usual pile. I wonder if any are scared, now that they aren't right beside each other sharing their tiny space in a bin or a drawer. Left to the big, wide world; nothing but space all around them, with the constant threat of being stepped on by a running child, or sleepy adult. Maybe they are learning that as much as freedom sounded like a good idea at the time, maybe they really were better off living in close quarters. At least they were safe.
Did I mention that I am home with all 4 of these children by myself? Vanessa has gone on a day trip to the USA with her sister. It's been 3 hours now, and the big question is: Will I survive the 4th?
Thursday, February 14, 2008
CLM
I've been terribly busy lately. I spent the better part of last week in Victoria on an assistant managers retreat. It was interesting, it definitely opened my eyes to a few areas that were previously hidden.
I then returned and wrote a rather challenging email to my bosses, explaining my frustration with their choice of people to be in charge of their restaurants. I have a meeting on Saturday now, with the "director of operations". Should be interesting...
So, to alleviate my stress, I rearranged the living room. While Vanessa is grocery shopping. She should be home any minute, and I am anxious to see if I will have to spend the rest of the afternoon returning the living room to it's previously arranged state.
I then returned and wrote a rather challenging email to my bosses, explaining my frustration with their choice of people to be in charge of their restaurants. I have a meeting on Saturday now, with the "director of operations". Should be interesting...
So, to alleviate my stress, I rearranged the living room. While Vanessa is grocery shopping. She should be home any minute, and I am anxious to see if I will have to spend the rest of the afternoon returning the living room to it's previously arranged state.
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
he is NOT tired
This is a clear example of a 5 year old child who is so NOT TIRED MOMMY!
It was the middle of the afternoon, the day after spending the night at Grandma & Grandpa's. This usually means a bit later of a night and earlier of a morning than usual, nobody seems to mind though. This day however, in the middle of the afternoon Thomas turned in to all sorts of crabby. So, Vanessa asked him to come and cuddle in our bed for a few minutes...after 5 minutes of shouting I DON'T WANT TO HAVE A NAP! this happened.
The pictures came an hour later right before we had to wake him up to go out looking for spiderman shoes. There are no pictures of the waking up process, but if there were: they would be far less peaceful than this.
It was the middle of the afternoon, the day after spending the night at Grandma & Grandpa's. This usually means a bit later of a night and earlier of a morning than usual, nobody seems to mind though. This day however, in the middle of the afternoon Thomas turned in to all sorts of crabby. So, Vanessa asked him to come and cuddle in our bed for a few minutes...after 5 minutes of shouting I DON'T WANT TO HAVE A NAP! this happened.
The pictures came an hour later right before we had to wake him up to go out looking for spiderman shoes. There are no pictures of the waking up process, but if there were: they would be far less peaceful than this.
Thursday, January 10, 2008
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
awol
Here I am internet. I have come back to you, once again. It's not that we really had a fight. I was never really mad at you or anything, it's just that I was distracted by another hot little number. Called Christmas. I know, I know, you don't want to hear it. I know it's only one day to you, but to me it means a lot. It's been over 2 weeks since Christmas ended, and I still haven't called. I can see why you might be upset. Believe me, I thought about calling, but I was nervous about what you would say. I was unsure how to explain to you about why I hadn't been around. It's a poor excuse, I know, but it's really all I have to offer.
If you would like to know, internet, Christmas went well for us. It was a bit of a different feel this year, staying at home all day and not travelling around to visit anyone. We had a very nice breakfast with my mom and dad, and the kids seemed to have just enough to do with all their new stuff. They didn't get extremely spoiled, which is good, but everything they did get they seemed to enjoy. There are many lego vehicles being displayed around the house now, each getting it's turn playing around the house. Noah and his Ark are constantly afloat, animals all over the place.
And I think if we have to watch High School Musical 1 or 2 very much more, I may just quit my job and start dancing around the local high schools, singing songs all the day long. Until I end up in jail, which would take about 42 seconds.
Yup, God blessed us greatly this Christmas season, and because of this dear internet, I have been busy. I will do my best to be there for you, to keep you updated on our lives. Just know though, that the longer I stay away the more great things are happening around here.
If you would like to know, internet, Christmas went well for us. It was a bit of a different feel this year, staying at home all day and not travelling around to visit anyone. We had a very nice breakfast with my mom and dad, and the kids seemed to have just enough to do with all their new stuff. They didn't get extremely spoiled, which is good, but everything they did get they seemed to enjoy. There are many lego vehicles being displayed around the house now, each getting it's turn playing around the house. Noah and his Ark are constantly afloat, animals all over the place.
And I think if we have to watch High School Musical 1 or 2 very much more, I may just quit my job and start dancing around the local high schools, singing songs all the day long. Until I end up in jail, which would take about 42 seconds.
Yup, God blessed us greatly this Christmas season, and because of this dear internet, I have been busy. I will do my best to be there for you, to keep you updated on our lives. Just know though, that the longer I stay away the more great things are happening around here.
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