Last week I was in NJ and PA for work. Our company's corporate headquarters is in NJ, and I had to do an audit in PA. Best part of the whole trip was the four plus inches of snow on our car Thursday morning in PA!
Now I'm back in Beaumont for work. The drive down was cold and drizzly, all the way from Waco through Houston and into Beaumont. I spoke with Sarah and she said that I needed to stop bringing the bad weather with me to Houston.
Princess was under the weather on Sunday and stayed home from Church. I had to not only prepare my Primary lesson, but also sharing time all by myself. I've got to stop relying on Princess for help and just bite the bullet and do it myself.
Gotta get back to work.
Tuesday, January 30, 2007
Sunday, January 21, 2007
Butt Freakin...
COLD!!! That is what is has been here for the past week!! Princess had late starts on Monday and Tuesday due to sleet and frozen rain (what's the difference!!) Sleet is frozen rain.
Then on Wednesday, we had over an inch of ice on our driveway, over two inches on the roof, and icicles hanging down about 10 inches off the eaves! We both were homebound then! I'm not like those other crazies, if I can't get my car out of the garage and down the driveway without control, I'm not gonna drive on it!!! Come on People! STAY HOME when it get's like this.
Made another trip to Beaumont for work - kinda like my home away from home lately! Stopped off a late Christmas present to the Joneses in Houston, and then came home.
We did some mild redecorating of the windows in our bedroom - took down the toppers that matched the old quilt and hung up some new sheers for a fresher, cleaner look. I think that we need to add more panels, but now I have to wait for Princess to decide - Isn't more always better???? You know, if chocolate makes you feel good, then more is better...AM I Right?!!
Anyhow - I seem to be ranting - could be due to hunger setting in - gotta run, get ready for Church and get out the old ironing board to get ready for the cold in NJ this week.
Later!
Then on Wednesday, we had over an inch of ice on our driveway, over two inches on the roof, and icicles hanging down about 10 inches off the eaves! We both were homebound then! I'm not like those other crazies, if I can't get my car out of the garage and down the driveway without control, I'm not gonna drive on it!!! Come on People! STAY HOME when it get's like this.
Made another trip to Beaumont for work - kinda like my home away from home lately! Stopped off a late Christmas present to the Joneses in Houston, and then came home.
We did some mild redecorating of the windows in our bedroom - took down the toppers that matched the old quilt and hung up some new sheers for a fresher, cleaner look. I think that we need to add more panels, but now I have to wait for Princess to decide - Isn't more always better???? You know, if chocolate makes you feel good, then more is better...AM I Right?!!
Anyhow - I seem to be ranting - could be due to hunger setting in - gotta run, get ready for Church and get out the old ironing board to get ready for the cold in NJ this week.
Later!
Friday, January 12, 2007
Okay
Okay...okay...okay - I have been a little busy this week what with my first week back to work in three weeks off.
My Primary class went really well. We set down some guidelines for the class (not rules, there are enough, and I want learning the New Testament to be fun and somewhat exciting). Had a great first lesson, and got off to a really good start. We'll see what next week brings. If I don't stay on my toes, "H" Nelson will be teaching the class the kid is too dang smart!
I figured up how many hours I worked this week and (drum roll please) how does 62 grab ya! Yep, 62 in 5 days - you do the math! I am dang tired, but the fun part was getting to go down to Beaumont, and stopping and visiting with the Joneses! I should say, Sarah, Indie, and then Morgan (Jordan is her real name, I've just always called her Morgan for fun). The other kids weren't out of school yet, so I didn't get to visit with them.
Our friend Sarah is soooo smart and very talented with cameras, photoshop, scrapbooking, decorating, etc. I got to see her office with the painted walls and the very shiek black desk and black shelf - way to chic for this country bumpkin! It was good to visit and to hear the puppy potty training trials, mostly accidents on tile, not on the carpet.
Sarah and Jordan also got to see my attempt at a goatee! I don't think that they really liked it, I tried to get them to feel how soft it is, but Jordan was like no way! Sarah said it didn't feel soft, but wiry - go figure.
I think we're going out tonight to the OG for dinner, that is if the Tornado doesn't come and crush us to death with high winds and rain.
Have a good night on that note :-)
My Primary class went really well. We set down some guidelines for the class (not rules, there are enough, and I want learning the New Testament to be fun and somewhat exciting). Had a great first lesson, and got off to a really good start. We'll see what next week brings. If I don't stay on my toes, "H" Nelson will be teaching the class the kid is too dang smart!
I figured up how many hours I worked this week and (drum roll please) how does 62 grab ya! Yep, 62 in 5 days - you do the math! I am dang tired, but the fun part was getting to go down to Beaumont, and stopping and visiting with the Joneses! I should say, Sarah, Indie, and then Morgan (Jordan is her real name, I've just always called her Morgan for fun). The other kids weren't out of school yet, so I didn't get to visit with them.
Our friend Sarah is soooo smart and very talented with cameras, photoshop, scrapbooking, decorating, etc. I got to see her office with the painted walls and the very shiek black desk and black shelf - way to chic for this country bumpkin! It was good to visit and to hear the puppy potty training trials, mostly accidents on tile, not on the carpet.
Sarah and Jordan also got to see my attempt at a goatee! I don't think that they really liked it, I tried to get them to feel how soft it is, but Jordan was like no way! Sarah said it didn't feel soft, but wiry - go figure.
I think we're going out tonight to the OG for dinner, that is if the Tornado doesn't come and crush us to death with high winds and rain.
Have a good night on that note :-)
Sunday, January 07, 2007
New Primary Class
Today begins with a bit of trepidation. I have been up since 6:00 AM worrying about teaching the 11/12 year olds in Primary at Church. Over the past year, I had the 9 year olds and they were a great class. Now I'm moving to a bigger class (number of students) and older (I won't be able to bluff them and have to be more prepared).
In my defense, I "browsed" through my lesson earlier in the week. I read the scriptures and I read the lesson using Evelyn Wood methodology. This brings us to today/this morning. Up at 6:00, showered, and dressed, in our home office studying and preparing the lesson. I have prepared the activity, hand written out my lesson, said a prayer that all will go well, and now I will leave it up to a review.
For 2007 we have moved from the early block of meetings (9:00 AM start time) to the late block of meetings (1:00 PM start time). For any of you not familiar with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, this means that all of our Sunday meetings are held in a block of three hours. It saves time. It saves energy (both at the building and gasoline traveling back and forth to the meeting house). It also makes it convenient to iron your Sunday shirt on Sunday morning when you have procrastinated during the week.
So, say a prayer for me and wish me luck. These 11/12 year olds are way to smart and are going to keep me on my toes with all of their questions.
BTW, the facial hair almost looks good, so it didn't come off this morning! Maybe you'll get to see a bonus post with picture after Church, then I would love to know, keep it or shave it off, you can post your vote in the comments.
Jim
In my defense, I "browsed" through my lesson earlier in the week. I read the scriptures and I read the lesson using Evelyn Wood methodology. This brings us to today/this morning. Up at 6:00, showered, and dressed, in our home office studying and preparing the lesson. I have prepared the activity, hand written out my lesson, said a prayer that all will go well, and now I will leave it up to a review.
For 2007 we have moved from the early block of meetings (9:00 AM start time) to the late block of meetings (1:00 PM start time). For any of you not familiar with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, this means that all of our Sunday meetings are held in a block of three hours. It saves time. It saves energy (both at the building and gasoline traveling back and forth to the meeting house). It also makes it convenient to iron your Sunday shirt on Sunday morning when you have procrastinated during the week.
So, say a prayer for me and wish me luck. These 11/12 year olds are way to smart and are going to keep me on my toes with all of their questions.
BTW, the facial hair almost looks good, so it didn't come off this morning! Maybe you'll get to see a bonus post with picture after Church, then I would love to know, keep it or shave it off, you can post your vote in the comments.
Jim
Wednesday, January 03, 2007
Happy New Year...a little late
Happy New Year...on January 3rd 2007! I'm late posting because; 1) I have been a little under the weather with a cold, 2) Princess and I have been busy doing some much needed chores (will explain later), and 3) I have been busy with some work issues ensuring that all runs smoothly for our plants.
We got all of our Christmas decorations taken down, packed and put back in the attic. This all accomplished with me having some sinus/cold issues. I must say, Princess is pretty patient with me when it comes to me being sick. I don't like to be touched, massaged, or held, just left alone with a blanket, and she manages to dance on the "egg shells" of my moods. All in all we have been pretty effective with our time off.
As you know, our 4th bedroom is our home office, or as I like to call it our room from "he**". This is due to our differing filing systems, mine is to file everything into file folders in drawers, and Princesses is to make piles and then when you cannot see the desktop, then she files. We cleaned up the office and now it is a much more pleasant environment to work in. Now don't go beating me up, Princess is a wonderful woman, we just have different filing methods. So now that her desk is cleared, she actually worked on some of her scrapbooking/cards/stamping supplies that she received for Christmas.
Well for the past week I have been trying to grow a goatee! We had a policy change at work and now we can have facial hair. The operative word is TRYING to grow this facial hair thing! After 8 days, it looks like I have dirt on my face. No kidding - look at my picture below:
Don't mind the five head (you know instead of a forehead), just look at the "dirt" around my chin (s). You can't see the mustache hair really well cause it has turned blonde/white already, but the other is quite red. I don't know if I'm going to keep it, only time and my mood on Sunday will tell (if it looks this bad by Sunday...off it comes!)!
We're pretty laid back today, going to Target (pronounced Tarjay) to return a shirt, then to HEB for some groceries.
Happy New Year - Jim
We got all of our Christmas decorations taken down, packed and put back in the attic. This all accomplished with me having some sinus/cold issues. I must say, Princess is pretty patient with me when it comes to me being sick. I don't like to be touched, massaged, or held, just left alone with a blanket, and she manages to dance on the "egg shells" of my moods. All in all we have been pretty effective with our time off.
As you know, our 4th bedroom is our home office, or as I like to call it our room from "he**". This is due to our differing filing systems, mine is to file everything into file folders in drawers, and Princesses is to make piles and then when you cannot see the desktop, then she files. We cleaned up the office and now it is a much more pleasant environment to work in. Now don't go beating me up, Princess is a wonderful woman, we just have different filing methods. So now that her desk is cleared, she actually worked on some of her scrapbooking/cards/stamping supplies that she received for Christmas.
Well for the past week I have been trying to grow a goatee! We had a policy change at work and now we can have facial hair. The operative word is TRYING to grow this facial hair thing! After 8 days, it looks like I have dirt on my face. No kidding - look at my picture below:
Don't mind the five head (you know instead of a forehead), just look at the "dirt" around my chin (s). You can't see the mustache hair really well cause it has turned blonde/white already, but the other is quite red. I don't know if I'm going to keep it, only time and my mood on Sunday will tell (if it looks this bad by Sunday...off it comes!)!
We're pretty laid back today, going to Target (pronounced Tarjay) to return a shirt, then to HEB for some groceries.
Happy New Year - Jim
Thursday, December 28, 2006
Christmas Day
Not a creature was stirring...except me. My body alarm clock woke up at 5:30 AM. So I got up and did the whole bathing thing, got dressed quietly, and headed downstairs.
I turned on the Christmas tree lights, put on Christmas music on the stereo, and then tackled the dishwasher. Next I washed all the dishes in the sink, dried them and put away those that I knew where they went. I then proceeded to clear the table so that I could set it. I now know where Princess got her filing system from...her Mother. Piles and Piles of paper, I carefully put on the computer desk. Then I scrubbed the table top and dried it (I tell you, raising parents is tough business).
The phone rang and interrupted my cleaning frenzy. It was Princesses niece Kara. We talked and laughed and then she asked to speak to "Grandma or Grandpa". I told her I was the only one awake - now about 8:30 AM and she said "Uncle Jim, go wake her up and give her the phone!" Now being the dutiful Unlce, I obliged and snuck back upstairs, snuck in her room, and announced "Old Woman, your granddaughter Kara would like to speak to you" to which she replied "Hush up old man!". We laughed and she took the phone.
I went back downstairs, and was joined by Linda who helped me start breakfast, then came Princess, and finally Bill. After breakfast, we proceeded to exchange gifts. I got some good cologne, Euphoria, and it smells great. Cleaned up the kitchen and then we all headed to Christy's house in Henderson for the meet up with the whole "fam damily".
Everyone enjoyed their time together, no fights, no yelling matches, good food, and Mom cried her eyes out when she opened her present and found a memory box with pictures of her and Dad, and all us kids, and all the grandkids decoupaged in a very beautiful arrangement. Then other presents were shared, all the sisters-in-law gave each other candles. It was great! We played Dominos with Christy, Shane (her hubby), and nephews Kyle and Tanner.
Next we skeedaddled to OLDER brother Rich's house to visit and to see my lovely niece Nicole (better known to the world as CPK "Cabbage Patch Kid"). Back to Vegas amongst the neon and Christmas lights to head off to dream land.
It was a wonderful Christmas with the families for the first time in 6 years.
I turned on the Christmas tree lights, put on Christmas music on the stereo, and then tackled the dishwasher. Next I washed all the dishes in the sink, dried them and put away those that I knew where they went. I then proceeded to clear the table so that I could set it. I now know where Princess got her filing system from...her Mother. Piles and Piles of paper, I carefully put on the computer desk. Then I scrubbed the table top and dried it (I tell you, raising parents is tough business).
The phone rang and interrupted my cleaning frenzy. It was Princesses niece Kara. We talked and laughed and then she asked to speak to "Grandma or Grandpa". I told her I was the only one awake - now about 8:30 AM and she said "Uncle Jim, go wake her up and give her the phone!" Now being the dutiful Unlce, I obliged and snuck back upstairs, snuck in her room, and announced "Old Woman, your granddaughter Kara would like to speak to you" to which she replied "Hush up old man!". We laughed and she took the phone.
I went back downstairs, and was joined by Linda who helped me start breakfast, then came Princess, and finally Bill. After breakfast, we proceeded to exchange gifts. I got some good cologne, Euphoria, and it smells great. Cleaned up the kitchen and then we all headed to Christy's house in Henderson for the meet up with the whole "fam damily".
Everyone enjoyed their time together, no fights, no yelling matches, good food, and Mom cried her eyes out when she opened her present and found a memory box with pictures of her and Dad, and all us kids, and all the grandkids decoupaged in a very beautiful arrangement. Then other presents were shared, all the sisters-in-law gave each other candles. It was great! We played Dominos with Christy, Shane (her hubby), and nephews Kyle and Tanner.
Next we skeedaddled to OLDER brother Rich's house to visit and to see my lovely niece Nicole (better known to the world as CPK "Cabbage Patch Kid"). Back to Vegas amongst the neon and Christmas lights to head off to dream land.
It was a wonderful Christmas with the families for the first time in 6 years.
Vegas Day Four and Five
Saturday was hectic. We got up did laundry, grocery shopping, and then went to our favorite sub type sandwich shop, Capriotti's. If you ever get to Vegas, you must, and I mean must, eat at Capriotti's. It is not "Subway or Quiznos", it is great sub sandwiches, from shredded turkey and roast beef, to cheese steak. MMMMM, they are delicious.
Saturday night, we were invited to Bert's house for dinner. Papa Murphy's take and bake was had by all. It was good to visit with them and to have time with my B.J., RL, Kelley, and our newest addition to the Price family name, Mallory Kate. Brownie, their dog was smitten with Princess and followed her all over the house.
Sunday (Christmas Eve) I was up at 5:30 AM, showered, shaved, and shined, to iron my shirt and steam out any wrinkles in my suit and Princesses dress. We attended our old Church Ward so that we could see everyone. It was great! As we sang the closing hymn, Silent Night, Cardon, our dear sweet friend, began to cry. She said it was too much, the music, the talks, and us sitting beside her at Church like old times. She made us cry too. We Love you Very Much Cardon!!
After Sacrament meeting there, we headed back to pick up Linda and go to Princesses old home Ward. We saw many familiar and smiling faces, some tears were shed, but it was great overall. The music from these two Wards was overwhelmingly superb. It still gives me goose bumps just thinking about it. Also, it being Christmas Eve, we went to Lindo Michoacan for Mexican food (again). Then home to wrap last minute presents. Got to bed late, so late, I even heard Santa's bells ringing on his sleigh.
Saturday night, we were invited to Bert's house for dinner. Papa Murphy's take and bake was had by all. It was good to visit with them and to have time with my B.J., RL, Kelley, and our newest addition to the Price family name, Mallory Kate. Brownie, their dog was smitten with Princess and followed her all over the house.
Sunday (Christmas Eve) I was up at 5:30 AM, showered, shaved, and shined, to iron my shirt and steam out any wrinkles in my suit and Princesses dress. We attended our old Church Ward so that we could see everyone. It was great! As we sang the closing hymn, Silent Night, Cardon, our dear sweet friend, began to cry. She said it was too much, the music, the talks, and us sitting beside her at Church like old times. She made us cry too. We Love you Very Much Cardon!!
After Sacrament meeting there, we headed back to pick up Linda and go to Princesses old home Ward. We saw many familiar and smiling faces, some tears were shed, but it was great overall. The music from these two Wards was overwhelmingly superb. It still gives me goose bumps just thinking about it. Also, it being Christmas Eve, we went to Lindo Michoacan for Mexican food (again). Then home to wrap last minute presents. Got to bed late, so late, I even heard Santa's bells ringing on his sleigh.
Vegas Day Two & Three
The next several days of our vacation at "home" we spent running errands to tidy up the Christmas shopping.
On Thursday, I was at our Vegas factory at 6:30 AM for a conference call with our purchasing department. Three hours later, I was back at the in-law's helping Princess make some Holiday treats for the big Christmas dinner at my sister's house. We then headed back up to the factory for a retirement party of one of my former bosses. It was great. Princess got to see a lot of our old friends and we had a great time.
We went to the Sunset Galleria Mall to do some more shopping, got a call from our friends from Utah, and the wife, Carollee and the kids, Spenser, Addison, Mollee, and Emillee, were at the mall while Doug was at the NY NY Hotel. We hooked up with Carollee and the kids, did some shopping and then caravaned back to the NY NY to pick up Doug. Off to our second favorite Mexican restaurant, then up to the LV Temple to see the sights and lights of the Holiday, then back home to bed.
Friday I took Linda while Princess took Bill and off we went shopping in separate directions. When we re-grouped, we headed out to Del Taco to eat lunch (are you seeing the trend? Mexican food everywhere), then to the mall and Costco. Later, we headed up to Danny and Paulette's where we were joined by Dan & Teri Willey. Pizza, wings, cheesecake and lots and lots of laughter. It was great to see them, visit with them and to be able to continue our tradition of getting together at Christmas time.
On Thursday, I was at our Vegas factory at 6:30 AM for a conference call with our purchasing department. Three hours later, I was back at the in-law's helping Princess make some Holiday treats for the big Christmas dinner at my sister's house. We then headed back up to the factory for a retirement party of one of my former bosses. It was great. Princess got to see a lot of our old friends and we had a great time.
We went to the Sunset Galleria Mall to do some more shopping, got a call from our friends from Utah, and the wife, Carollee and the kids, Spenser, Addison, Mollee, and Emillee, were at the mall while Doug was at the NY NY Hotel. We hooked up with Carollee and the kids, did some shopping and then caravaned back to the NY NY to pick up Doug. Off to our second favorite Mexican restaurant, then up to the LV Temple to see the sights and lights of the Holiday, then back home to bed.
Friday I took Linda while Princess took Bill and off we went shopping in separate directions. When we re-grouped, we headed out to Del Taco to eat lunch (are you seeing the trend? Mexican food everywhere), then to the mall and Costco. Later, we headed up to Danny and Paulette's where we were joined by Dan & Teri Willey. Pizza, wings, cheesecake and lots and lots of laughter. It was great to see them, visit with them and to be able to continue our tradition of getting together at Christmas time.
Wednesday, December 27, 2006
Vegas Baby - Day Uno
Merry Christmas...late, and Happy New Year early! Ha! I know that I have not been keeping up with my blog - too much work and too little fun time. So a quick re-cap.
We left for Vegas a week ago today, at the crack of dawn 4:45 AM. We arrived in Vegas at 9:00 AM PST and were greeted by my brother Bert at our gate (he works at the airport) and it was pretty cool to have that happen since all the regulations changed back in 2001. Bill & Linda (Princesses parents), met us in baggage claim, where surprise! Our luggage was number 1, 2, & 3 off the plane. We gathered it up, and headed to the in-laws house.
We dropped off the luggage, headed off for some errands and got a bite to eat at...the suspense is killing...IN-N-Out Burger!!! We then went into Henderson to my younger sister's to pick up my parents car (no rental car charges). While there we got to see my two nephews who have been living in New York state with their father, then my younger brother's wife came over with 3 of her 4 kids, and we got to hold and make kissy face all over my new 2 month old niece, Mallory Kate. She is such a cutie patootie!!! We left there, did some more errands and hooked up with our wonderful friend of many years Cardon. We got Linda to meet us and we ate at Macayo's for dinner...our favorite Mexican Restaurant. Bill is a professional real bearded Santa and he was working at a live Show at the FASHION SHOW Mall on the Las Vegas Strip (It was quite a production).
We got back to the in-laws around 9:00 PM and crashed! It was a very productive day.
We left for Vegas a week ago today, at the crack of dawn 4:45 AM. We arrived in Vegas at 9:00 AM PST and were greeted by my brother Bert at our gate (he works at the airport) and it was pretty cool to have that happen since all the regulations changed back in 2001. Bill & Linda (Princesses parents), met us in baggage claim, where surprise! Our luggage was number 1, 2, & 3 off the plane. We gathered it up, and headed to the in-laws house.
We dropped off the luggage, headed off for some errands and got a bite to eat at...the suspense is killing...IN-N-Out Burger!!! We then went into Henderson to my younger sister's to pick up my parents car (no rental car charges). While there we got to see my two nephews who have been living in New York state with their father, then my younger brother's wife came over with 3 of her 4 kids, and we got to hold and make kissy face all over my new 2 month old niece, Mallory Kate. She is such a cutie patootie!!! We left there, did some more errands and hooked up with our wonderful friend of many years Cardon. We got Linda to meet us and we ate at Macayo's for dinner...our favorite Mexican Restaurant. Bill is a professional real bearded Santa and he was working at a live Show at the FASHION SHOW Mall on the Las Vegas Strip (It was quite a production).
We got back to the in-laws around 9:00 PM and crashed! It was a very productive day.
Wednesday, December 06, 2006
Aussie Trip Recap
Arriving in Sydney, going through the usual customs immigration etc. I grabbed a cab to the hotel and $50 AU dollars later arrived at the hotel. It was now about 8:30 PM Friday night. I was beat and had no desire to go out and about by myself. My other travelers had arrived earlier and had departed for sites. Sleep drove me to bed about 9:30, and I was finally able to check my e-mail just before bed.
Saturday morning we ate a very expensive (in my opinion) breakfast, then headed out to the ferry over to Manly beach. I got some great photos of the beach, ocean, and cliffs. We walked, and walked, and walked. My poor old fat body was dying at the end of the day. For dinner, we headed out to Watson’s bay and ate at Doyle’s Restaurant. A 106-year-old establishment and I ate fish for the first time in about 30 years. I ate Snapper as my fish and chips (fries). It was delightful, not fishy at all, and very delicious. I even ate it without drowning it in tartar sauce.
Sunday morning we ate breakfast at an open-air café right by the Sydney Opera house. Beautiful view and really good food. We decided to head to the airport early to travel to Melbourne. In the end, I went ahead alone cause my ticket was changeable and my other workmates tickets were not. Left a cold and rainy Sydney for a warm and dry Melbourne.
Sunday night we dined on the balcony of an Italian restaurant overlooking the Yarra River in Melbourne. Monday we headed out for a 2.5-hour drive to the next audit. I audited all day; we finished and drove about 2 hours to Ballarat. My company has a plant in Ballarat. We met up with some Aussies from the plant and had a wonderful meal lakeside in Ballarat.
Tuesday drove about 2.0 hours to do a follow-up audit, saw more of the Ocean and some very beautiful but dry countryside. The state of Victoria has had drought conditions for about the last 7 to 8 years. We were hosted Tuesday evening at a barbecue at the home of one of the Aussies. Steak, Sausage, Lamb chops, a delightful potato salad and equally delicious green salad with Avocados, Mangos, and what they call "Rocket" greens here.
Wednesday visited and toured the plant in Ballarat. Great site, lovely people, and a wonderful production facility. It is so good to know that even 14,000 miles from home, the processes and standards are uniform throughout.
We left the plant and I was delivered to the airport in Melbourne to depart from Hong Kong. Which is where I am recording this while in my hotel room. I’m gonna post this and the NZED recap, then check out of the hotel, take a train to the city and sight see before my 11:00 PM flight tonight.
CAN’T WAIT TO GET HOME! Look out Texas, here I come.
Saturday morning we ate a very expensive (in my opinion) breakfast, then headed out to the ferry over to Manly beach. I got some great photos of the beach, ocean, and cliffs. We walked, and walked, and walked. My poor old fat body was dying at the end of the day. For dinner, we headed out to Watson’s bay and ate at Doyle’s Restaurant. A 106-year-old establishment and I ate fish for the first time in about 30 years. I ate Snapper as my fish and chips (fries). It was delightful, not fishy at all, and very delicious. I even ate it without drowning it in tartar sauce.
Sunday morning we ate breakfast at an open-air café right by the Sydney Opera house. Beautiful view and really good food. We decided to head to the airport early to travel to Melbourne. In the end, I went ahead alone cause my ticket was changeable and my other workmates tickets were not. Left a cold and rainy Sydney for a warm and dry Melbourne.
Sunday night we dined on the balcony of an Italian restaurant overlooking the Yarra River in Melbourne. Monday we headed out for a 2.5-hour drive to the next audit. I audited all day; we finished and drove about 2 hours to Ballarat. My company has a plant in Ballarat. We met up with some Aussies from the plant and had a wonderful meal lakeside in Ballarat.
Tuesday drove about 2.0 hours to do a follow-up audit, saw more of the Ocean and some very beautiful but dry countryside. The state of Victoria has had drought conditions for about the last 7 to 8 years. We were hosted Tuesday evening at a barbecue at the home of one of the Aussies. Steak, Sausage, Lamb chops, a delightful potato salad and equally delicious green salad with Avocados, Mangos, and what they call "Rocket" greens here.
Wednesday visited and toured the plant in Ballarat. Great site, lovely people, and a wonderful production facility. It is so good to know that even 14,000 miles from home, the processes and standards are uniform throughout.
We left the plant and I was delivered to the airport in Melbourne to depart from Hong Kong. Which is where I am recording this while in my hotel room. I’m gonna post this and the NZED recap, then check out of the hotel, take a train to the city and sight see before my 11:00 PM flight tonight.
CAN’T WAIT TO GET HOME! Look out Texas, here I come.
New Zealand Trip Recap
So the past 11 days have gone very quickly. No time to get homesick for Princess or the girls cause work was so demanding.
I havenÂ’t had much time to blog, with the travel and spotty Internet connections. So I have resorted to using Word to record my travels and then be able to post them to the blog. I have posted once whiletravelingg, and I hope you will let me re-cap in this post.
Arriving in New Zealand (henceforth Nzed) as they call their country. Very green country from the plane. Anyhow, I digress, I went through customs and Immigration without a problem, took my two suitcases and comp bag, jumped on a bus and went to the domestic terminal, where my two bags were over weight by 1 kilo and I had to pay $20 NZ dollars to check them. I went through security, and waited to board my plane to Christchurch, on the southern island.
In Christchuch, I met up with my NZED contact and my Aussie counterpart. We then flew to Invercargill where it was coldÂ…about 6 degrees C. We got right down to auditing and finished the day at 5:00 PM. We checked into our hotel (the old post office turned into long term apartments). It is a beautiful old building with lots of charm and character. Tuesday back to auditing, finished, then fly to Christchurch again and drive to our destination. We did the meet and greet, set the audit schedule, and drove to our little town about 20K from the plant. We had a great meal and great views of the ocean from our hotel room.
All day Wednesday we audited our facility, ending about 6:00PM. Thursday, we finished up the audit, drove back to Christchurch and flew to Auckland. We went to dinner at DINE, a divinely inspired restaurant that had delicious food. I was ordering the duck (first time) and the waiter suggested the NZED beef. I changed, and was greeted with a beautiful portion of meat on beetroot green and beets (first time also).
Friday morning we flew to Whangarei (Fongarei is how it is pronounced in Maori) to audit. Beautiful portion of the Northern island. We audited, ate a delightful lunch (as you can see, food is very important to my two chins and me), finished the audit and I flew to Auckland so that I could fly to Sydney.
It was a whirlwind trip in NZED, but a wonderful lifelong dream fulfilled by work.
I havenÂ’t had much time to blog, with the travel and spotty Internet connections. So I have resorted to using Word to record my travels and then be able to post them to the blog. I have posted once whiletravelingg, and I hope you will let me re-cap in this post.
Arriving in New Zealand (henceforth Nzed) as they call their country. Very green country from the plane. Anyhow, I digress, I went through customs and Immigration without a problem, took my two suitcases and comp bag, jumped on a bus and went to the domestic terminal, where my two bags were over weight by 1 kilo and I had to pay $20 NZ dollars to check them. I went through security, and waited to board my plane to Christchurch, on the southern island.
In Christchuch, I met up with my NZED contact and my Aussie counterpart. We then flew to Invercargill where it was coldÂ…about 6 degrees C. We got right down to auditing and finished the day at 5:00 PM. We checked into our hotel (the old post office turned into long term apartments). It is a beautiful old building with lots of charm and character. Tuesday back to auditing, finished, then fly to Christchurch again and drive to our destination. We did the meet and greet, set the audit schedule, and drove to our little town about 20K from the plant. We had a great meal and great views of the ocean from our hotel room.
All day Wednesday we audited our facility, ending about 6:00PM. Thursday, we finished up the audit, drove back to Christchurch and flew to Auckland. We went to dinner at DINE, a divinely inspired restaurant that had delicious food. I was ordering the duck (first time) and the waiter suggested the NZED beef. I changed, and was greeted with a beautiful portion of meat on beetroot green and beets (first time also).
Friday morning we flew to Whangarei (Fongarei is how it is pronounced in Maori) to audit. Beautiful portion of the Northern island. We audited, ate a delightful lunch (as you can see, food is very important to my two chins and me), finished the audit and I flew to Auckland so that I could fly to Sydney.
It was a whirlwind trip in NZED, but a wonderful lifelong dream fulfilled by work.
Friday, December 01, 2006
Just call me...
International traveler.
I arrived in New Zealand on Monday 27 November and have traveled around the entire country...from Auckland to Invercargill (North Island to almost Southern most point on the Southern Island). I have seen a lot of NZ from the air and from a car window. Unfortunately, not a lot of time to tourist visit some of the wonderful places that are here.
Today is Saturday, 2 December and I am in Sydney Australia. Got here about 9:00 PM last night, unpacked, have sorted my laundry to turn in for washing, and had a really good night's rest.
Today I get to go out and about to see Sydney and experience Down Under. I'll try to blog about those experiences later today. So far, it has been a really cool trip. No issues, No problems.
I'm missing Princess a lot and my two little four legged girls. At least we have been able to talk for a few minutes each night.
Gotta run and shower to start my day.
I arrived in New Zealand on Monday 27 November and have traveled around the entire country...from Auckland to Invercargill (North Island to almost Southern most point on the Southern Island). I have seen a lot of NZ from the air and from a car window. Unfortunately, not a lot of time to tourist visit some of the wonderful places that are here.
Today is Saturday, 2 December and I am in Sydney Australia. Got here about 9:00 PM last night, unpacked, have sorted my laundry to turn in for washing, and had a really good night's rest.
Today I get to go out and about to see Sydney and experience Down Under. I'll try to blog about those experiences later today. So far, it has been a really cool trip. No issues, No problems.
I'm missing Princess a lot and my two little four legged girls. At least we have been able to talk for a few minutes each night.
Gotta run and shower to start my day.
Friday, November 24, 2006
I'm Back
Yes, I know that I have been away a long time. It seems that November just flew past me and that I didn't know what to blog about with my boring life. Work was busy, spending the majority of it traveling to audit suppliers.
Yesterday was Thanksgiving. We had a total of 26 people in our home and fortunately we were blessed with Stupendous weather, that we could set up the tables and chairs on the back patio to keep everyone together. Now the 26 people included adults and kids an almost 50/50 ratio. Everyone got along really well and we had a great meal. Three turkeys, potatoes, sweet potatoes, stuffing, rolls, orange fluff, green bean casserole, Josh's grapefruit punch, relish tray, deviled eggs (yummy), asparagus casserole, cranberry jelly, and cranberry relish/compote, and of course homemade gravy to pour on everything.
The Whites came. The Jacobsens came. The Pettits came. The Pancratzes came. The Ikedas came. And we had pies galore. Pumpkin, Apple, Special Pumpkin, Granola, Custard, and more!
After eating, the kids were bored and the Dad's and I walked to the community park. We swang, tossed the football and Frisbee, and had a great time. We got back from the park and Mark had purchased tickets for everyone (yeah Mark) to go and see Happy Feet! I highly recommend it - 4 Stars!
We came back from the movie, had pie and visited while the kids ran their pie off in the back yard.
I am so thankful to Heavenly Father for a wonderful Wife! Who can see past all my imperfections and help me strive to be a better person and to fulfill all that I do and say. I am grateful for the Gospel of Jesus Christ. For freedom to worship as I choose. To have troops that I support 100%+ to ensure all of us to have the freedoms we enjoy. I am thankful for good health and good jobs. For parents and in-laws and out-laws. For wonderful friends. I am thankful there was a light breeze yesterday to go along with the sunshine (near 80 F) that made our day much more comfortable. I am thankful to have technology that allows us to be near when separated by miles.
I hope your Thanksgiving was as joyous as ours!
Jim
Yesterday was Thanksgiving. We had a total of 26 people in our home and fortunately we were blessed with Stupendous weather, that we could set up the tables and chairs on the back patio to keep everyone together. Now the 26 people included adults and kids an almost 50/50 ratio. Everyone got along really well and we had a great meal. Three turkeys, potatoes, sweet potatoes, stuffing, rolls, orange fluff, green bean casserole, Josh's grapefruit punch, relish tray, deviled eggs (yummy), asparagus casserole, cranberry jelly, and cranberry relish/compote, and of course homemade gravy to pour on everything.
The Whites came. The Jacobsens came. The Pettits came. The Pancratzes came. The Ikedas came. And we had pies galore. Pumpkin, Apple, Special Pumpkin, Granola, Custard, and more!
After eating, the kids were bored and the Dad's and I walked to the community park. We swang, tossed the football and Frisbee, and had a great time. We got back from the park and Mark had purchased tickets for everyone (yeah Mark) to go and see Happy Feet! I highly recommend it - 4 Stars!
We came back from the movie, had pie and visited while the kids ran their pie off in the back yard.
I am so thankful to Heavenly Father for a wonderful Wife! Who can see past all my imperfections and help me strive to be a better person and to fulfill all that I do and say. I am grateful for the Gospel of Jesus Christ. For freedom to worship as I choose. To have troops that I support 100%+ to ensure all of us to have the freedoms we enjoy. I am thankful for good health and good jobs. For parents and in-laws and out-laws. For wonderful friends. I am thankful there was a light breeze yesterday to go along with the sunshine (near 80 F) that made our day much more comfortable. I am thankful to have technology that allows us to be near when separated by miles.
I hope your Thanksgiving was as joyous as ours!
Jim
Wednesday, October 11, 2006
Another...
Year older and wiser...isn't that how the saying goes? Well yesterday I celebrated (albeit quietly at my choosing) my 42nd birthday. Not depressed. Not blue. Just very sedate. Probably cause we had such a good night on Saturday for Princesses celebration that I decided that I wanted quiet.
We had Rosati's Chicago style pizza for dinner. Princess bought me an ice cream cake from B&R (chocolate cake with chocolate chip ice cream) decorated with Lightening McQueen and Sally from "CARS". It was really cool and great.
What did I do to celebrate you ask? I took the day off - slept in, showered - no shaving - picked up the house a bit - and then ironed from the ironing basket while watching "When Harry Met Sally". I love that flick. I also played some computer games and I watched some HGTV, all the while it rained cats and dogs until about 12:30.
I ate junk for lunch and just really enjoyed the whole thing. Princess got me X-Men 3 and some new cologne (of course from the Sadie and Sasha too). My sister called to wish me a happy day, along with the "old woman" (Linda my mother-in-law). And then about 10:30, Mom called to wish me a Happy Birthday also. Was I mad about the after 9:00 pm call? Not! Even though everyone knows my rules (no calls after 9:00 unless emergency), but for Mom, exceptions are made and gladly so. Also, My Breast Friend Debra from school called - we talked for about 40 minutes and it seemed like seconds. Can't wait to see her, LJ, and their brood when we go home for Christmas.
Speaking of Christmas - Princess is finally...and I mean finally going to a stamping party and will be making all kinds of cool stuff. I hope that this is her foray into scrapbooking and re-invigorating her crafting gene. I'm hoping that she will get ideas for Christmas crafts, etc. and that she will then work on all the wood projects that we own and are not even started! (I know, evil nagging husband gene just reared it's ugly head.
Have a great one
We had Rosati's Chicago style pizza for dinner. Princess bought me an ice cream cake from B&R (chocolate cake with chocolate chip ice cream) decorated with Lightening McQueen and Sally from "CARS". It was really cool and great.
What did I do to celebrate you ask? I took the day off - slept in, showered - no shaving - picked up the house a bit - and then ironed from the ironing basket while watching "When Harry Met Sally". I love that flick. I also played some computer games and I watched some HGTV, all the while it rained cats and dogs until about 12:30.
I ate junk for lunch and just really enjoyed the whole thing. Princess got me X-Men 3 and some new cologne (of course from the Sadie and Sasha too). My sister called to wish me a happy day, along with the "old woman" (Linda my mother-in-law). And then about 10:30, Mom called to wish me a Happy Birthday also. Was I mad about the after 9:00 pm call? Not! Even though everyone knows my rules (no calls after 9:00 unless emergency), but for Mom, exceptions are made and gladly so. Also, My Breast Friend Debra from school called - we talked for about 40 minutes and it seemed like seconds. Can't wait to see her, LJ, and their brood when we go home for Christmas.
Speaking of Christmas - Princess is finally...and I mean finally going to a stamping party and will be making all kinds of cool stuff. I hope that this is her foray into scrapbooking and re-invigorating her crafting gene. I'm hoping that she will get ideas for Christmas crafts, etc. and that she will then work on all the wood projects that we own and are not even started! (I know, evil nagging husband gene just reared it's ugly head.
Have a great one
Monday, October 09, 2006
Monday Blues
Ever have the feeling that you entered a new week only to find that it is going to be a very long one? I did today. I got to the plant, and decided that I would not unpack my files in my rolling computer bag. I would only take out those that I needed so that I could stay focused and complete a task...HA!
Of course everyone I interact with needed...no wanted some of my time. I did manage to get progress on my project, but not completed so I could get feedback from some other associates at a different plant.
This of course comes on the heels of a marvelous weekend (see previous post for Princess). I will try harder tomorrow to get the project completed, take out a new file and make stupendous progress on it.
On the home front, it is cooler here in Waco and I've been home for the past 2 weeks with this being the third one in a row - a record. Procrastination has become my middle name. We bought a Crepe Myrtle a couple of...no make that a month ago and I have not planted it - that is my task tomorrow after work as we are leaving in a while to go eat dinner with our friends, the Blackhurts.
Sorry for the downer of a post, but hey...life happens - we just have to deal with it and move on.
Jim
Of course everyone I interact with needed...no wanted some of my time. I did manage to get progress on my project, but not completed so I could get feedback from some other associates at a different plant.
This of course comes on the heels of a marvelous weekend (see previous post for Princess). I will try harder tomorrow to get the project completed, take out a new file and make stupendous progress on it.
On the home front, it is cooler here in Waco and I've been home for the past 2 weeks with this being the third one in a row - a record. Procrastination has become my middle name. We bought a Crepe Myrtle a couple of...no make that a month ago and I have not planted it - that is my task tomorrow after work as we are leaving in a while to go eat dinner with our friends, the Blackhurts.
Sorry for the downer of a post, but hey...life happens - we just have to deal with it and move on.
Jim
Sunday, October 08, 2006
Forty Never Looked Better
Happy Birthday to Princess! 40 years ago today, Bill & Linda welcomed her into their arms, family, and hearts. I am thankful that they have shared her with me for the past 19+ years.
Last night we celebrated by going out to dinner with our friends. We went to this wonderful restaurant here in Waco called 1424. That is the street number of the establishment here, 1424 Washington. Very wonderful food. The picture above is from said dinner. Princess looked fabulous in her new pantsuit that we shopped for. Light aqua/turquoise with chocolate brown accents and chocolate brown pants.
Princess also raked in the goods, a cool candle and portable filing system from Cardon, Perfume from our girls (the puppies), perfume from me and of course, the Little Mermaid on DVD! The neighbors saluted her with a wonderful new straw bag from Brighton! She loved it.
At Church today everyone came up to her and wished her a Happy Birthday. Some one said to her "29 again?" and she smartly replied "Nope, 40 and dang proud of every moment!" Man, you gotta love a woman who is confident with her age and her looks.
Again, I am truly blessed to have her in my life...So way to go Princess! Happy Birthday and here's to another 40 more!!
Love Jim
Saturday, October 07, 2006
Happy Anniversary
October 6, 1960...45 Years. That's how long Princesses Parents have been married. I ran out of time yesterday, but I did call and leave the "old woman" (my endearing nickname for Linda for the past 19 years) a Happy Anniversary voice mail at her work.
I am so blessed to have such wonderful in-laws. Bill and Linda have raised two wonderful daughters. At the drop of a hat, they come running from Vegas to Texas to help us out. They love to visit their eight grandchildren in Idaho, whom they surprise every once in a while with sneak visits.
Bill and Linda are great examples of Christ like love, service and charity. They inspire us to do better, be better, and serve unselfishly not only in Church, but in the communities were we live. I have seen these examples reflected in the lives of their girls. They hold true to their values, morals, and ethics. They teach unwavering testimonies of Our Heavenly Father, His Son, and the Plan of Salvation to everyone they meet.
I know that as they age, they worry who will take care of them. They needn't worry at all! Their family will greatly cherish their wisdom among our own respective families. I only know that I can say...I truly love them as much as my own parents.
So kick up your heels Bill and Linda - enjoy...you've earned it.
Your Loving son-in-law (Old Man) and Princess
I am so blessed to have such wonderful in-laws. Bill and Linda have raised two wonderful daughters. At the drop of a hat, they come running from Vegas to Texas to help us out. They love to visit their eight grandchildren in Idaho, whom they surprise every once in a while with sneak visits.
Bill and Linda are great examples of Christ like love, service and charity. They inspire us to do better, be better, and serve unselfishly not only in Church, but in the communities were we live. I have seen these examples reflected in the lives of their girls. They hold true to their values, morals, and ethics. They teach unwavering testimonies of Our Heavenly Father, His Son, and the Plan of Salvation to everyone they meet.
I know that as they age, they worry who will take care of them. They needn't worry at all! Their family will greatly cherish their wisdom among our own respective families. I only know that I can say...I truly love them as much as my own parents.
So kick up your heels Bill and Linda - enjoy...you've earned it.
Your Loving son-in-law (Old Man) and Princess
Wednesday, October 04, 2006
Time Flies...
when work has been this crazy. Lately, I feel like a visitor in my own house! Sadie looks at me on Friday night as I try to laydown my tired head with "Look dad, this is my pillow! You go find the one you were using at the hotel!" This as I push my furried little pup to the side and slide into our now crowded California King bed.
Princess has been a trouper with all my travel...and I found out that I may have to go to New Zealand and Australia November 26 through December 8. Excited but nervous. I do well traveling Monday through Friday, but miss the weekends at home - gets me a little homesick for some TLC (no that is not The Learning Channel)!
Sunday, Princess will be 40! We have been married for 19 years which means that I have known Princess for half her life (one year of friends dating and then the engagement, hence half her life). She won't tell me what she wants for her birthday - so I'm working on it. We are trying to downsize our extravagant needs and she is doing a really good job by not telling me what she wants. Crap - I give her anything she wants...does that equate to spoiled on her part? Cause I know she spoils me.
The photo is from our back patio potted plants - she truly has a green thumb and with all my work stuff and honey-do list, I stopped to smell the roses...or in this case, the flowers.
Will post soon with pictures of her b-day celebration.
Jim
Friday, September 15, 2006
Home Again
Friday night, I'm home from traveling, looking forward to a relaxing weekend, but Princess and I both have sinus/allergy problems. She spent about 4 hours in bed today while I worked from home and did laundry, and did dishes, and worked from home...get the picture (whine). All grumpy complaining aside, she needed the rest and I insisted that she go lie down. I woke her up, fixed some dinner and now she is relaxing in front of the television. Hopefully she can sleep tonight and tomorrow.
We had plans for tomorrow night, but I cancelled, I felt Princess needed the rest. We can party (as if for us old folks) another weekend. We'll both lay low, I'll finish some work, print out some reports, and iron like there is no tomorrow on Saturday and Sunday...I'm continent hopping again during next week.
As for working at home, what with cell phones, computers, and instant messaging, I worked into the 5:oo PM hour. I had planned on half a day due to my long week this week, but that did not pan out. I know...whining again...but I can't help it, overworked, fat and onery does not make Jim a happy guy.
Oh well, tomorrow it's up, mow, edge, and complete the aforementioned chores.
Jim
We had plans for tomorrow night, but I cancelled, I felt Princess needed the rest. We can party (as if for us old folks) another weekend. We'll both lay low, I'll finish some work, print out some reports, and iron like there is no tomorrow on Saturday and Sunday...I'm continent hopping again during next week.
As for working at home, what with cell phones, computers, and instant messaging, I worked into the 5:oo PM hour. I had planned on half a day due to my long week this week, but that did not pan out. I know...whining again...but I can't help it, overworked, fat and onery does not make Jim a happy guy.
Oh well, tomorrow it's up, mow, edge, and complete the aforementioned chores.
Jim
Saturday, September 09, 2006
Overworked
I can't believe that it has been almost a month since I last blogged! I pratically spent the whole month traveling for work, writing audits, etc covering off issues at the plant and this left little time at night for dinner, let alone blogging.
As I was finally catching up today, I read my new friend Debbie's blog only to find out that they are moving to Holland!!! Her Hubby got a job with Shell and they are moving to the Hague and are in the throes of finalizing all the documentation, etc to move!! We will miss seeing her when we visit Houston.
During August, I went to Mexico twice, Chicago, Boise, and Seattle. The travel wasn't so bad, but I did spend my 19th wedding anniversary apart from Princess. I tried to make it up when I got home, but it's just not the same.
While in Boise, I had the chance to visit with Princesses sister, hubby, and the 7 kids at home (numero uno is serving a two year mission in Argentina for our Church). We had a blast! We got to catch up, play a really cool game called "Quidller", and my brother-in-law's parents stopped over with a delicious cake. It was a good time for all.
I also got to visit Deseret Book and picked up a "thinking of you" gift for Princess - she was surprised. While traveling, I got reacquainted with STARBUCKS Creme Frappuccino - sans coffee! The banana creme and you can ask for coconut creme are my favorites - probably why I am packing on too many pounds.
My Primary class is going pretty well...except we have been instructed to not bring weekly treats, just treats that are tied into the lesson. Well with my travel schedule, I'm usually preparing my lesson on Saturday night/Sunday morning, so baking and such are out of the picture and consequently, my class is suffering. Every week, one of the boys prays for help to get through their Sunday of "fasting". Too cute!
Right now, I'm battling an allergy cold - so it's stay home, do expense reports, and get some rest.
Jim
As I was finally catching up today, I read my new friend Debbie's blog only to find out that they are moving to Holland!!! Her Hubby got a job with Shell and they are moving to the Hague and are in the throes of finalizing all the documentation, etc to move!! We will miss seeing her when we visit Houston.
During August, I went to Mexico twice, Chicago, Boise, and Seattle. The travel wasn't so bad, but I did spend my 19th wedding anniversary apart from Princess. I tried to make it up when I got home, but it's just not the same.
While in Boise, I had the chance to visit with Princesses sister, hubby, and the 7 kids at home (numero uno is serving a two year mission in Argentina for our Church). We had a blast! We got to catch up, play a really cool game called "Quidller", and my brother-in-law's parents stopped over with a delicious cake. It was a good time for all.
I also got to visit Deseret Book and picked up a "thinking of you" gift for Princess - she was surprised. While traveling, I got reacquainted with STARBUCKS Creme Frappuccino - sans coffee! The banana creme and you can ask for coconut creme are my favorites - probably why I am packing on too many pounds.
My Primary class is going pretty well...except we have been instructed to not bring weekly treats, just treats that are tied into the lesson. Well with my travel schedule, I'm usually preparing my lesson on Saturday night/Sunday morning, so baking and such are out of the picture and consequently, my class is suffering. Every week, one of the boys prays for help to get through their Sunday of "fasting". Too cute!
Right now, I'm battling an allergy cold - so it's stay home, do expense reports, and get some rest.
Jim
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