The snow and the cold!
It just keeps coming. This morning it is -5! I have to force the dogs to go outside. Poor Maggie's arthritis keeps her cautious most of the time, but she is really struggling to walk around outside these days. Nutty's little short legs makes it quite difficult for her to find just the right spot!!! I swear I do believe these piles of snow will still be here in June! Last Friday, TR Baker and his friend Danielle headed to St Ignace (just across the Mack Bridge) to catch a plane to fly them to the island for a winter weekend of hiking. Well, the snow moved in and they could not even get across the bridge. It closed down because of the winds. This is not just any bridge, it's an interstate highway - I-75 to Canada! It was closed until 6am Saturday morning and then they were escorting cars across a few at a time. Think about it. An interstate highway closed. It's the only way in Michigan you can cross to the upper peninsula. And the airport shut down and didn't fly until Sunday! So much for that weekend! They did spend their time in Petoskey at the lovely historic Perry Hotel. They had a fine time after all!
My home being for sale!
The signs went up on the trees (snow too deep for yard signs) front and back on January 30. This evening at 6:15 I will have my first showing to a prospective buyer. The real estate office called yesterday to ask if that would be agreeable and I said of course. Sell this house!!!! I'll spend today making sure everything looks sparkling and then this evening the dogs and I will take a ride. Keep your fingers crossed!
Girlfriends!
I really have the best. And when you tell them something and ask for prayers, I KNOW they pray. And I know they support me in my decisions and are happy when I'm happy. What a blessing they are to me. I hope all of you have special friends like mine in your lives.
A very dear friend I have reconnected with after 40+ years!
A friend who drove up to see me in the worst weather possible, who was put off the interstate in blinding snow in a place he had no idea where he was, going 35 miles an hour trying to see the car in front of him, wearing his seat belt (bless him!), two hands on the steering wheel in an act of self-preservation, talking to his "on star" connection to get him further north! WOW! He made it safely and pulled into my driveway with a smile on his face. He brought tears to my eyes and warmth to my heart. Very special...
Psalms 115:1
Wednesday, February 26, 2014
Sunday, February 9, 2014
February 9, 1978 - February 9, 2014
36 years...WOW! Today is TR Baker's (Harold Charles Baker, III, for those who wonder what his actual name is) birthday! I'm cooking bacon and sweet rolls for his breakfast. I remember his birthday for several reasons. Got to the hospital (Baptist East) around 8am and he was born at 11:46am. (This was before all the current methods of determining the sex had been discovered!) Since the day I was told I was pregnant, we had decided ourselves (HC Baker really!) this was a boy. After many months of discussion, we decided (HC Baker really!) his name would be Harold Charles Baker, III and he would be called TR. I wanted him to be called "Chip" as in chip off the old block, but HC Baker wanted him to be called by initials. So there you have it! The history of TR Baker's name.
Now, back to his birthday. Needless to say, this pregnancy was a surprise so I decided (no input from HC Baker allowed) I would go from delivery to surgery and get myself fixed to avoid any more surprises!!!! When TR Baker was born, HC Baker and the doctor decided to keep the sex of this child a secret to me and they hid him from me. Everyone thought it was quite funny except me. Finally when I threw a post delivery fit (and it was a good one!), they let me see him. He was so beautiful with perfect skin and blonde hair standing up all over his head. HC Baker was so happy he put a fabulous emerald and diamond ring on my finger. Quite the romantic! I was the talk of the hospital! Shortly I went from delivery to surgery.
Now here's where it gets interesting. When I began to wake up from the surgery, I was in my room and I could hear HC Baker talking to TR Baker. Not able to fully form words yet, I just listened. It was a beautiful conversation. A few moments later a nurse walked into the room to get the baby, and I heard HC Baker tell her the next time she brought the baby to him, please bring a bigger bottle because TR Baker drank all the water in that little bottle and seemed to want more so HC Baker refilled it with tap water!!!!!!! I heard the nurse say "Mr. Baker, what have you done?" and she ran out of the room. In a few moments another nurse (probably the boss nurse) came back in and asked, "Mr. Baker, explain to me what you did."
*Things to note here...
This was the first baby for HC Baker as he adopted the girls when we married.
HC Baker had no idea what to do with a baby.
HC Baker was not stupid.
HC Baker loved a really good practical joke.
HC Baker wanted to let people know they had made a grave error and needed a few
new procedures in place for first-time Dad's.
HC Baker was pleased whenever I couldn't contribute to a conversation.
Back to the story.
My brain is screaming at me to help my newborn son but my mouth still could not form words and I couldn't seem to get my eyes open. But I could raise my arm! So in the midst of this conversation, I lifted my arm in my attempt to get someone's attention. It worked. The nurse came over and asked if I was OK. I grabbed her arm and shook my head indicating I had something to say. When HC Baker realized I had heard all that was happening, he knew if he wanted to go home with this new baby and me, he'd better straighten up and fly right. So he explained to the nurse how interesting it was that when you buy a washing machine, it comes with instructions. However, they brought a brand new life, one that he was responsible for, into this room with absolutely no instructions. He assured them he was not stupid enough to give this baby all that liquid and then more out of the faucet, but he could have!!!!
He suggested they review their policies and create new ones for the safety and protection of everyone. The boss nurse said "You're right" (two of HC Baker's favorite words). The nurses left the room, HC Baker kept TR Baker with him, and from that point on, HC Baker did whatever he wanted during our stay. No questions asked.
So that's the story of TR Baker's first day of life. Not a day has gone by since that hasn't been just as interesting and exciting! There have been good days and bad days, laughter and tears, bravery and caution, and lots of learning experiences for ALL of us! And the wonderful news...it continues to this day.
Happy Birthday to my son, my heavy lifter, my yardman, my fixer, my cook, my vacuumer, the recipient this mother's love for a son. I'll always remember your special "birth" day!
xxoo
Now, back to his birthday. Needless to say, this pregnancy was a surprise so I decided (no input from HC Baker allowed) I would go from delivery to surgery and get myself fixed to avoid any more surprises!!!! When TR Baker was born, HC Baker and the doctor decided to keep the sex of this child a secret to me and they hid him from me. Everyone thought it was quite funny except me. Finally when I threw a post delivery fit (and it was a good one!), they let me see him. He was so beautiful with perfect skin and blonde hair standing up all over his head. HC Baker was so happy he put a fabulous emerald and diamond ring on my finger. Quite the romantic! I was the talk of the hospital! Shortly I went from delivery to surgery.
Now here's where it gets interesting. When I began to wake up from the surgery, I was in my room and I could hear HC Baker talking to TR Baker. Not able to fully form words yet, I just listened. It was a beautiful conversation. A few moments later a nurse walked into the room to get the baby, and I heard HC Baker tell her the next time she brought the baby to him, please bring a bigger bottle because TR Baker drank all the water in that little bottle and seemed to want more so HC Baker refilled it with tap water!!!!!!! I heard the nurse say "Mr. Baker, what have you done?" and she ran out of the room. In a few moments another nurse (probably the boss nurse) came back in and asked, "Mr. Baker, explain to me what you did."
*Things to note here...
This was the first baby for HC Baker as he adopted the girls when we married.
HC Baker had no idea what to do with a baby.
HC Baker was not stupid.
HC Baker loved a really good practical joke.
HC Baker wanted to let people know they had made a grave error and needed a few
new procedures in place for first-time Dad's.
HC Baker was pleased whenever I couldn't contribute to a conversation.
Back to the story.
My brain is screaming at me to help my newborn son but my mouth still could not form words and I couldn't seem to get my eyes open. But I could raise my arm! So in the midst of this conversation, I lifted my arm in my attempt to get someone's attention. It worked. The nurse came over and asked if I was OK. I grabbed her arm and shook my head indicating I had something to say. When HC Baker realized I had heard all that was happening, he knew if he wanted to go home with this new baby and me, he'd better straighten up and fly right. So he explained to the nurse how interesting it was that when you buy a washing machine, it comes with instructions. However, they brought a brand new life, one that he was responsible for, into this room with absolutely no instructions. He assured them he was not stupid enough to give this baby all that liquid and then more out of the faucet, but he could have!!!!
He suggested they review their policies and create new ones for the safety and protection of everyone. The boss nurse said "You're right" (two of HC Baker's favorite words). The nurses left the room, HC Baker kept TR Baker with him, and from that point on, HC Baker did whatever he wanted during our stay. No questions asked.
So that's the story of TR Baker's first day of life. Not a day has gone by since that hasn't been just as interesting and exciting! There have been good days and bad days, laughter and tears, bravery and caution, and lots of learning experiences for ALL of us! And the wonderful news...it continues to this day.
Happy Birthday to my son, my heavy lifter, my yardman, my fixer, my cook, my vacuumer, the recipient this mother's love for a son. I'll always remember your special "birth" day!
xxoo
Thursday, February 6, 2014
Excited!
1. Excited we haven't had any new snow in 4 days! In my mind I think it must be over. Son and son-in-law laughed!
2. Excited it was already up to 4 degrees at 7am this morning. That's above zero!
3. Excited Emily, Brett, Garrett and Gracie are back from Orlando safely. They had a great time but wished it had been warmer and not raining. (I reminded them it wasn't snow and 50 degrees sounds pretty good to me.)
4. Excited I got to pick up the kiddos on Tuesday after school and deliver them where they needed to be. (Emily had a meeting.) I hadn't seen them in over a week. Had to take Garrett to my favorite clothing store in Indian River, McClutchey's, owned by my friend Kathy. Garrett needed a new dress shirt for a school project presentation. He needed to wear a dress shirt, tie and sport coat. He had it all but realized the dress shirt was pretty snug. Kathy measured him and we left there with a blue, long sleeved, oxford cloth shirt size...17/35!!!!!!!!!! Tears came to my eyes. He's soon to be 16 years old! How did he get so big?
5. Excited I get to be with Gracie again this afternoon. We always laugh!
6. Excited FB set up that video option. I have LOVED seeing everyone's. Lots of smiles and a few tears.
7. Excited (I think) that on Sunday, February 9, we will celebrate TR Baker's birthday. He will be (oh my gosh, can I say this number?) 36 years old. How did that happen? And he's the baby of my children! The amazing thing about this is all of my children are about to be older than me! Now that's exciting!
8. Excited TR Baker sold his little blue car. It was a bittersweet moment for him as he bought that car brand new 10 years ago. He's on vacation next week and will buy a new one...preferably one that sits a bit higher off the ground and has 4-wheel drive.
9. Excited to have a wintertime guest in a few weeks. I don't have many wintertime visitors so this will be especially fun. With all the snow and the frozen lake, the view is stunning. Cannot wait to share it!
10. Excited I received a phone call yesterday from a friend from college. Phillip is the kind of person who will call out of the blue, and it's seems as if we just talked yesterday. He and his sister, Mary, are two wonderfully beautiful, interesting and entertaining people. I remember what fun we used to have and know we could still enjoy each other as much today.
11. Excited I can sit here with my tea and thank God for the many blessings He has provided me, thank Him for all of you, and thank Him for the wonders of nature I can see all around me. Life IS a blessing. Use it up!
Safe travels on your journeys! xxoo
Praying for CH, LE, B & R, Bill E-S who is having a heart cath tomorrow, and all our military and their families. Two dear friends lost parents this week - Doug and Lanny, praying for you and your families. Peace...
2. Excited it was already up to 4 degrees at 7am this morning. That's above zero!
3. Excited Emily, Brett, Garrett and Gracie are back from Orlando safely. They had a great time but wished it had been warmer and not raining. (I reminded them it wasn't snow and 50 degrees sounds pretty good to me.)
4. Excited I got to pick up the kiddos on Tuesday after school and deliver them where they needed to be. (Emily had a meeting.) I hadn't seen them in over a week. Had to take Garrett to my favorite clothing store in Indian River, McClutchey's, owned by my friend Kathy. Garrett needed a new dress shirt for a school project presentation. He needed to wear a dress shirt, tie and sport coat. He had it all but realized the dress shirt was pretty snug. Kathy measured him and we left there with a blue, long sleeved, oxford cloth shirt size...17/35!!!!!!!!!! Tears came to my eyes. He's soon to be 16 years old! How did he get so big?
5. Excited I get to be with Gracie again this afternoon. We always laugh!
6. Excited FB set up that video option. I have LOVED seeing everyone's. Lots of smiles and a few tears.
7. Excited (I think) that on Sunday, February 9, we will celebrate TR Baker's birthday. He will be (oh my gosh, can I say this number?) 36 years old. How did that happen? And he's the baby of my children! The amazing thing about this is all of my children are about to be older than me! Now that's exciting!
8. Excited TR Baker sold his little blue car. It was a bittersweet moment for him as he bought that car brand new 10 years ago. He's on vacation next week and will buy a new one...preferably one that sits a bit higher off the ground and has 4-wheel drive.
9. Excited to have a wintertime guest in a few weeks. I don't have many wintertime visitors so this will be especially fun. With all the snow and the frozen lake, the view is stunning. Cannot wait to share it!
10. Excited I received a phone call yesterday from a friend from college. Phillip is the kind of person who will call out of the blue, and it's seems as if we just talked yesterday. He and his sister, Mary, are two wonderfully beautiful, interesting and entertaining people. I remember what fun we used to have and know we could still enjoy each other as much today.
11. Excited I can sit here with my tea and thank God for the many blessings He has provided me, thank Him for all of you, and thank Him for the wonders of nature I can see all around me. Life IS a blessing. Use it up!
Safe travels on your journeys! xxoo
Praying for CH, LE, B & R, Bill E-S who is having a heart cath tomorrow, and all our military and their families. Two dear friends lost parents this week - Doug and Lanny, praying for you and your families. Peace...
Sunday, February 2, 2014
Remember that game we played as kids?
For my Sunday morning worship, this morning I decided to play that old game we used to play as kids. I held my Bible in the palm of my hands and let it fall open to where it wanted to go. With my eyes closed, I dropped my finger onto the page and guess where it landed?
Jeremiah 15:16
You spoke to me and I listened to every word. I belong to you, Lord God Almighty, and so your words filled my heart with joy and happiness. (Good News Bible - Today's English Version)
Now I'm taking this totally out of context, but can you believe this verse chose me at this crossroads of my life? Going back in time to June 11, 2010, I was in the darkest hours of my life. The only thing I knew to do was to pray to the Lord to help me get through this, to guide me, to stay by my side and let His footsteps be my footsteps.
About six weeks ago, for the first time in quite some time, I told the story of the night HC Baker died. I can still remember every second with extreme clarity.
The rain.
The moment I knew I had lost control of the car.
HC Baker said "oh brother, hold on", his last earthly words to me, a very prophetic statement.
The car spinning and rolling over and suddenly stopping with a huge sound as it landed on its' side
against a tree.
The silence all around me.
Calling HC Baker's name, touching his leg, and knowing he was dead.
Lots and lots of people, cars, sirens, unknown faces of those who stopped to help.
Screaming at these wonderful people to get my husband out of the car and find our dog Lady.
From the inside of someone's car, watching emergency workers try to get HC Baker out of the car.
Seeing the resignation in their body language. I remember my own gasp.
The trip to the hospital.
The call to Emily and Brett.
Emily and Brett arriving and all of us crying.
Leaving the hospital with Lady in the back of the car, dead.
The drive to Emily and Brett's home. The sun was rising.
Brett burying Lady.
I could go on and on telling you about what happened in the next week, but by now many of you were already receiving the news.
And now, here I am, approaching four years since all this happened. I've certainly done a lot since then. I wonder about it myself! But I believe I've listened to the Lord, and it's not always easy. I believe He has been by my side to guide me. I believe I have followed in His footsteps (with a few little detours now and then), and I believe I have done what He wanted me to do. There are still moments when my heart aches, but there are more moments now filled with joy and happiness. Questions? Yes, I still have them. But I've learned to listen for the very special answers He places in my heart. I hope you're listening too.
Praying this morning for...
Emily, Brett, Garrett and Gracie flying back from Orlando today
Friend of a friend, Robin who lost her husband this week
Bryan, husband of sweet Jennifer
Dear friends R and B, husband and wife both battling cancer
All those facing difficulties in their lives
All of our military and their families and
Thanking my Lord for being there for me.
I'm excited for things to come. xxoo
Jeremiah 15:16
You spoke to me and I listened to every word. I belong to you, Lord God Almighty, and so your words filled my heart with joy and happiness. (Good News Bible - Today's English Version)
Now I'm taking this totally out of context, but can you believe this verse chose me at this crossroads of my life? Going back in time to June 11, 2010, I was in the darkest hours of my life. The only thing I knew to do was to pray to the Lord to help me get through this, to guide me, to stay by my side and let His footsteps be my footsteps.
About six weeks ago, for the first time in quite some time, I told the story of the night HC Baker died. I can still remember every second with extreme clarity.
The rain.
The moment I knew I had lost control of the car.
HC Baker said "oh brother, hold on", his last earthly words to me, a very prophetic statement.
The car spinning and rolling over and suddenly stopping with a huge sound as it landed on its' side
against a tree.
The silence all around me.
Calling HC Baker's name, touching his leg, and knowing he was dead.
Lots and lots of people, cars, sirens, unknown faces of those who stopped to help.
Screaming at these wonderful people to get my husband out of the car and find our dog Lady.
From the inside of someone's car, watching emergency workers try to get HC Baker out of the car.
Seeing the resignation in their body language. I remember my own gasp.
The trip to the hospital.
The call to Emily and Brett.
Emily and Brett arriving and all of us crying.
Leaving the hospital with Lady in the back of the car, dead.
The drive to Emily and Brett's home. The sun was rising.
Brett burying Lady.
I could go on and on telling you about what happened in the next week, but by now many of you were already receiving the news.
And now, here I am, approaching four years since all this happened. I've certainly done a lot since then. I wonder about it myself! But I believe I've listened to the Lord, and it's not always easy. I believe He has been by my side to guide me. I believe I have followed in His footsteps (with a few little detours now and then), and I believe I have done what He wanted me to do. There are still moments when my heart aches, but there are more moments now filled with joy and happiness. Questions? Yes, I still have them. But I've learned to listen for the very special answers He places in my heart. I hope you're listening too.
Praying this morning for...
Emily, Brett, Garrett and Gracie flying back from Orlando today
Friend of a friend, Robin who lost her husband this week
Bryan, husband of sweet Jennifer
Dear friends R and B, husband and wife both battling cancer
All those facing difficulties in their lives
All of our military and their families and
Thanking my Lord for being there for me.
I'm excited for things to come. xxoo
Tuesday, January 28, 2014
It's been a while...
Yes, it has! And I have been so busy thinking and praying and praying and thinking.
In April, Michigan grandson Garrett will be 16 and there's already a pick-up truck (what else?) sitting by the barn waiting to be tagged and insured. A few days after Garrett's birthday, grand daughter Gracie will celebrate her 12th birthday and she is spending her free time at sleepovers at home and with her friends. Both of these kiddos are so busy with football, weight training, soccer, basketball and ballet all the while earning straight "A's" on their schoolwork. My taxi and babysitting services are no longer needed. So, with that being said, I have listed my home to sell.
I have absolutely no regrets. I know many of you wondered at my decision to come north to live so quickly after HC Baker died, and I wondered too. There were many days when I had to force myself to get out of bed, wash my face, brush my teeth and just breathe. In the past three and a half years, I have had the opportunity to love and be loved abundantly by Garrett and Gracie. When they were born, I was so far away and every time I visited, I had to re-introduce myself to them. We have spent my time here creating wonderful memories I know I will always remember and cherish, and I hope they will too! I wouldn't trade this experience for anything. It's been wonderful, and my heart is full.
So once I completely decided to stay for a while and sold my blue cottage and bought the gray beast, I began another part of my journey. As many of you know and some of you have seen, I tackled this house with energy and enthusiasm. I loved watching this house become my home. There is not a room I have not poured my heart into. I love what it has become. But now it's time to move on.
I have been blessed in so many ways by TR Baker. He has been my roommate, my heavy lifter, my yardman, and on many occasions, my "grounder"! TR Baker will remain in northern Michigan. He has wonderful friends, a great job with a bright future, and he loves the out-of-doors just like his Dad. He will make his own way and continue his journey.
Once my home sells, I plan to come back home - Louisville, Kentucky. I have missed my daughter Libby and her family, my sisters and their families, my friends and my church. I have made many new friends up north loving every minute as I was welcomed into this precious community of Topinabee with open arms. Great people are here, and they have wonderful plans to keep this a growing and friendly place to live and vacation. What I have loved most about it is it's a family town. And there's nothing more important than your family.
Without a doubt, I have the most loyal, supportive friends and family in the world. I have discussed my move with several of them and they are ready to help me adjust AGAIN! My word for 2014 is DISCOVER, and that's what I plan to do this year. I look forward to discovering more about myself and others, and especially what the Lord has in store for me next.
There is still a bit of time for any of you to come for a visit. A wonderful old friend is coming in a few weeks. He's quite brave as this morning's temperature was a few degrees below "0" and outside my back door is 4+ feet of snow. I'm excited to see him! I have plenty of bedrooms, a furnace that works really well, and extra pairs of wool socks! You can do this!!!!! (That's a phrase I tell myself often! I also tell myself change is good!)
Don't let exciting opportunities pass you by! DISCOVER what's out there for YOU! I love each and every one of you and am so grateful for the support you have given me. Get ready...I'm on my way back! xxoo
Prayer requests -
My friend CH is on the same "sell my house" journey. Please pray for her.
My friends, husband and wife B & R J are BOTH undergoing chemo treatments. Please pray for them.
Continue to pray for our military and their families.
Pray for our country.
P.S. - Thanks for keeping me laughing with your photos of 3 inches of snow in Louisville!!!!! You all are a funny bunch!
In April, Michigan grandson Garrett will be 16 and there's already a pick-up truck (what else?) sitting by the barn waiting to be tagged and insured. A few days after Garrett's birthday, grand daughter Gracie will celebrate her 12th birthday and she is spending her free time at sleepovers at home and with her friends. Both of these kiddos are so busy with football, weight training, soccer, basketball and ballet all the while earning straight "A's" on their schoolwork. My taxi and babysitting services are no longer needed. So, with that being said, I have listed my home to sell.
I have absolutely no regrets. I know many of you wondered at my decision to come north to live so quickly after HC Baker died, and I wondered too. There were many days when I had to force myself to get out of bed, wash my face, brush my teeth and just breathe. In the past three and a half years, I have had the opportunity to love and be loved abundantly by Garrett and Gracie. When they were born, I was so far away and every time I visited, I had to re-introduce myself to them. We have spent my time here creating wonderful memories I know I will always remember and cherish, and I hope they will too! I wouldn't trade this experience for anything. It's been wonderful, and my heart is full.
So once I completely decided to stay for a while and sold my blue cottage and bought the gray beast, I began another part of my journey. As many of you know and some of you have seen, I tackled this house with energy and enthusiasm. I loved watching this house become my home. There is not a room I have not poured my heart into. I love what it has become. But now it's time to move on.
I have been blessed in so many ways by TR Baker. He has been my roommate, my heavy lifter, my yardman, and on many occasions, my "grounder"! TR Baker will remain in northern Michigan. He has wonderful friends, a great job with a bright future, and he loves the out-of-doors just like his Dad. He will make his own way and continue his journey.
Once my home sells, I plan to come back home - Louisville, Kentucky. I have missed my daughter Libby and her family, my sisters and their families, my friends and my church. I have made many new friends up north loving every minute as I was welcomed into this precious community of Topinabee with open arms. Great people are here, and they have wonderful plans to keep this a growing and friendly place to live and vacation. What I have loved most about it is it's a family town. And there's nothing more important than your family.
Without a doubt, I have the most loyal, supportive friends and family in the world. I have discussed my move with several of them and they are ready to help me adjust AGAIN! My word for 2014 is DISCOVER, and that's what I plan to do this year. I look forward to discovering more about myself and others, and especially what the Lord has in store for me next.
There is still a bit of time for any of you to come for a visit. A wonderful old friend is coming in a few weeks. He's quite brave as this morning's temperature was a few degrees below "0" and outside my back door is 4+ feet of snow. I'm excited to see him! I have plenty of bedrooms, a furnace that works really well, and extra pairs of wool socks! You can do this!!!!! (That's a phrase I tell myself often! I also tell myself change is good!)
Don't let exciting opportunities pass you by! DISCOVER what's out there for YOU! I love each and every one of you and am so grateful for the support you have given me. Get ready...I'm on my way back! xxoo
Prayer requests -
My friend CH is on the same "sell my house" journey. Please pray for her.
My friends, husband and wife B & R J are BOTH undergoing chemo treatments. Please pray for them.
Continue to pray for our military and their families.
Pray for our country.
P.S. - Thanks for keeping me laughing with your photos of 3 inches of snow in Louisville!!!!! You all are a funny bunch!
Saturday, January 4, 2014
Dear Delta...
You don't know me nor do you care about me, but I just need to tell you a few things. I've waited two days to write this in my attempt to let my temper return to a manageable level. I'll start at the beginning, and I will try and be as brief as possible.
In case you don't know, you have a monopoly at my little local airport in Pellston, Michigan, PLN. You charge incredible amounts of money for any flight leaving there. You have two daily flights in and out of Pellston. The 6:30am one originates here. Explain to me how it can be delayed. And yes, we get a lot of snow in the winter, but it seems to me someone would be planning for any issues that might arise due to our winter weather. And also, keep in mind, when the pilot throws that throttle forward to speed down the runway for take-off, and the aircraft does not move because the wheels are spinning on the ice, the passengers do take note! FYI...the second try was successful!
I made it to Detroit. Now, explain to me why I always depart the aircraft at gate one and my connecting flight is always at gate 2000 on another concourse! I am aware your fares are based on mileage so I wonder if you get some sort of rebate based on the number of steps your travelers make inside the terminal. Do those restaurants and bookshops offer you a kick-back per face they see walking by? Just curious!
I made it to gate 2000 in another concourse and immediately notice the word "delayed" instead of my anticipated departure time. OK, I decide I'll not ask the question and simply sit down and wait (amazing for me). In a few minutes another passenger walks to the check-in desk and asks that age-old question...WHY? You ready for this answer Mr. Delta? Here it is..."They (who is they?) didn't schedule a crew for this flight". I just left a blank space because I wanted YOU, MR. DELTA to think about that for a moment. Are you dialing your HR person or how about your logistics person. If all else fails, how about the flight crew scheduler!!! Yes, that's the one! Do you have that position in your company? I bet you do and I bet you have several people performing this task. Are you paying them? Maybe you have tenure in your company. Is that it? The person who is answering questions at the desk now picks up the announcing microphone and tells every one the flight will be delayed while we wait for a crew to arrive. Where are they? Are they sitting in a bar just down the way, at home asleep on their only day off in a week, having an argument with their spouse, hungover from the night before????????? What do you think the passengers think? An HOUR later, the crew arrives and cannot open the door to the jetway because the person who was at the check-in desk has left! They finally find a person to open the jetway door! Finally we board and fly off into the gray sky!
*This next part is just a little personal observation regarding my travel experience. The lady across the aisle has a little boy maybe 2 years old. He screams the whole flight because he wants out of his seat to walk the aisle and play. To his mother's credit she refuses. However, she doesn't offer him an alternative like say a game to play, crayons and coloring book, a snack, READ TO HIM...I can think of lots of things to do with a two year old. Then there's the little girl, maybe five years old, sitting behind me. She tap danced on the back of my seat the entire trip. I gave her mother who was sitting across the aisle (??????) several "looks" and she would say "Honey don't do that". I finally stood up from my seat, turned to this child and told her if she didn't stop kicking the back of my seat, there was a possibility I would and could break her legs. She began to cry and her mother looked terror stricken! Good! Another instance of a mother not properly prepared for air travel. Mr. Delta - how about some children's books or coloring books and crayons on board? How much could that cost you?
I finally made it to Louisville. ONE HOUR AND TEN MINUTES LATE!!!!!!
I'm not done yet Mr. Delta. I want you to have a peek at my return flight!
I arrive at the airport (SDF) for a 5:30pm departure. This is the airport where hundreds of UPS planes take off at all hours of the day and night! It's called World Port and SDF is responsible for keeping all activities there running on schedule. Exactly what part to you play in this? All the way through the security check the monitor still reads "on time". Five minutes later when I arrive at the gate check-in, the board reads delayed till 6pm. I'm not going to panic. I've had a great but very short family visit. I take deep breaths and tell myself, it's only 30 minutes. I figure if the flight departs at 6pm, we'll begin to board around 5:30. Well Mr. Delta, 5:30 comes and goes. I have a connecting flight in Detroit with a fairly short layover and I'm now thinking about that gate 2000 thing! I walk to the check-in desk and ask how much longer I can expect to wait. They look at me and tell me they just don't know. I explain to them about my connecting flight and if I miss it, there's not another flight to Pellston until the next afternoon. And I certainly DO NOT want to spend the night in the Detroit airport. I go back to my seat, take out my book and hope I can block this airport experience out of my mind. About 20 minutes later a woman approaches me and calls me by name. "Ms. Baker, could I talk to you?" She begins by telling me she wants to discuss "worse case scenario". First of all Mr. Delta, her name is Kelly and she is the first Delta person I have met who is actually concerned about your customers. She tells me there is a chance I will make my connection as she has looked at the situation, and it's very likely my flight to Pellston will also be delayed. If I decide to change my flight (at no cost to me), she has already put my name on the passenger list for the next two flights to Detroit the next day. I did thank her and tell her I appreciated her efforts but I "booked" this flight because I wanted and needed to be back home on this day, not tomorrow. I wait it out and finally we board the plane. At boarding, Kelly is there and tells me my connecting flight is delayed and it looks like I will make the connection. Thank you Kelly.
OK, I'm on this plane and it's 7pm - 90 minutes later than expected. Once seated and buckled in, I notice the flight attendant. She's wearing an unpleasant expression. Maybe she didn't get what she wanted for Christmas or had a rough New Year's Eve! When it's time for "beverage service" she rolls her cart to my seat and asks if I'd like anything. I can't resist and tell her I'd like to make my connection. She replies that's not her responsibility! I declined a beverage!
I made it to Detroit and once again had to change concourses for my connection and made that too! There were finishing boarding and I ran down the jetway to the plane. The flight attendant was very pleasant, smiling and looked happy! I find my seat, buckle up and realize I'm gonna' make it home. Deep breath! Wait! What's that sound? Really, what's that sound? It sounds like a dog barking. What? Seated behind me is a woman with a tiny dog in one of those purses with the little screen door. And the dog is what my family has always called a snack! (We've always had big dogs!) We are finally in the air and the dogs is still unhappy. I hear her talking to this dog. The next thing I know, the dog is quiet. Wonderful! Well, in actuality, she has removed the dog from its' screened purse and is holding it. And then the flight attendant passes by and politely tells this lady "Delta rules" state the dog must remain in its' carrier. Geeze Louise! Back in goes the dog and it resumes its' lamenting until landing in Pellston.
We are ONE HOUR AND THIRTY MINUTES LATE!!!
I thought any problems with my trip were now over. I was home! However, my luggage was not. Mr. Delta, in addition to paying way too much for my ticket, I paid you an extra $25 to check my baggage for the trip to Louisville and another $25 for the trip back, and you can't even keep it on the plane with me! I will tell you Pellston was very kind about my non-arriving luggage. I completed the paperwork and went home. Within 24 hours they had sent me an e-mail telling me they found my luggage and it would be arriving around 3pm and they would then deliver it to my home by 5pm. Thank you. And yes, my luggage made it home...with a huge crack. I've taken a photo of the damage and have e-mailed it to the address on my baggage claim check. Wonder how that's gonna' workout?
I know this has been a long letter, and you'll probably file it in the round file, but I could not let my experience go by without letting you know the problems I faced. I'm sorry for anyone working for you as I would not want to be a team member of a company who holds customer service in such low regard. I even said that to one Delta employee. I suggested they find another job. I do not belong to your preferred customer club as I do not want you to think I like you! I don't! And if you treat your preferred customers better than you treat me, SHAME ON YOU!!!! Yes, I'll definitely fly Delta again I'm sorry to say but there's that monopoly thing again! I have my fingers crossed you or someone will heed my words. Customer service is the most important thing you can do to insure success. You have lost track of that concept.
Good Luck in 2014. You're gonna' need it!
In case you don't know, you have a monopoly at my little local airport in Pellston, Michigan, PLN. You charge incredible amounts of money for any flight leaving there. You have two daily flights in and out of Pellston. The 6:30am one originates here. Explain to me how it can be delayed. And yes, we get a lot of snow in the winter, but it seems to me someone would be planning for any issues that might arise due to our winter weather. And also, keep in mind, when the pilot throws that throttle forward to speed down the runway for take-off, and the aircraft does not move because the wheels are spinning on the ice, the passengers do take note! FYI...the second try was successful!
I made it to Detroit. Now, explain to me why I always depart the aircraft at gate one and my connecting flight is always at gate 2000 on another concourse! I am aware your fares are based on mileage so I wonder if you get some sort of rebate based on the number of steps your travelers make inside the terminal. Do those restaurants and bookshops offer you a kick-back per face they see walking by? Just curious!
I made it to gate 2000 in another concourse and immediately notice the word "delayed" instead of my anticipated departure time. OK, I decide I'll not ask the question and simply sit down and wait (amazing for me). In a few minutes another passenger walks to the check-in desk and asks that age-old question...WHY? You ready for this answer Mr. Delta? Here it is..."They (who is they?) didn't schedule a crew for this flight". I just left a blank space because I wanted YOU, MR. DELTA to think about that for a moment. Are you dialing your HR person or how about your logistics person. If all else fails, how about the flight crew scheduler!!! Yes, that's the one! Do you have that position in your company? I bet you do and I bet you have several people performing this task. Are you paying them? Maybe you have tenure in your company. Is that it? The person who is answering questions at the desk now picks up the announcing microphone and tells every one the flight will be delayed while we wait for a crew to arrive. Where are they? Are they sitting in a bar just down the way, at home asleep on their only day off in a week, having an argument with their spouse, hungover from the night before????????? What do you think the passengers think? An HOUR later, the crew arrives and cannot open the door to the jetway because the person who was at the check-in desk has left! They finally find a person to open the jetway door! Finally we board and fly off into the gray sky!
*This next part is just a little personal observation regarding my travel experience. The lady across the aisle has a little boy maybe 2 years old. He screams the whole flight because he wants out of his seat to walk the aisle and play. To his mother's credit she refuses. However, she doesn't offer him an alternative like say a game to play, crayons and coloring book, a snack, READ TO HIM...I can think of lots of things to do with a two year old. Then there's the little girl, maybe five years old, sitting behind me. She tap danced on the back of my seat the entire trip. I gave her mother who was sitting across the aisle (??????) several "looks" and she would say "Honey don't do that". I finally stood up from my seat, turned to this child and told her if she didn't stop kicking the back of my seat, there was a possibility I would and could break her legs. She began to cry and her mother looked terror stricken! Good! Another instance of a mother not properly prepared for air travel. Mr. Delta - how about some children's books or coloring books and crayons on board? How much could that cost you?
I finally made it to Louisville. ONE HOUR AND TEN MINUTES LATE!!!!!!
I'm not done yet Mr. Delta. I want you to have a peek at my return flight!
I arrive at the airport (SDF) for a 5:30pm departure. This is the airport where hundreds of UPS planes take off at all hours of the day and night! It's called World Port and SDF is responsible for keeping all activities there running on schedule. Exactly what part to you play in this? All the way through the security check the monitor still reads "on time". Five minutes later when I arrive at the gate check-in, the board reads delayed till 6pm. I'm not going to panic. I've had a great but very short family visit. I take deep breaths and tell myself, it's only 30 minutes. I figure if the flight departs at 6pm, we'll begin to board around 5:30. Well Mr. Delta, 5:30 comes and goes. I have a connecting flight in Detroit with a fairly short layover and I'm now thinking about that gate 2000 thing! I walk to the check-in desk and ask how much longer I can expect to wait. They look at me and tell me they just don't know. I explain to them about my connecting flight and if I miss it, there's not another flight to Pellston until the next afternoon. And I certainly DO NOT want to spend the night in the Detroit airport. I go back to my seat, take out my book and hope I can block this airport experience out of my mind. About 20 minutes later a woman approaches me and calls me by name. "Ms. Baker, could I talk to you?" She begins by telling me she wants to discuss "worse case scenario". First of all Mr. Delta, her name is Kelly and she is the first Delta person I have met who is actually concerned about your customers. She tells me there is a chance I will make my connection as she has looked at the situation, and it's very likely my flight to Pellston will also be delayed. If I decide to change my flight (at no cost to me), she has already put my name on the passenger list for the next two flights to Detroit the next day. I did thank her and tell her I appreciated her efforts but I "booked" this flight because I wanted and needed to be back home on this day, not tomorrow. I wait it out and finally we board the plane. At boarding, Kelly is there and tells me my connecting flight is delayed and it looks like I will make the connection. Thank you Kelly.
OK, I'm on this plane and it's 7pm - 90 minutes later than expected. Once seated and buckled in, I notice the flight attendant. She's wearing an unpleasant expression. Maybe she didn't get what she wanted for Christmas or had a rough New Year's Eve! When it's time for "beverage service" she rolls her cart to my seat and asks if I'd like anything. I can't resist and tell her I'd like to make my connection. She replies that's not her responsibility! I declined a beverage!
I made it to Detroit and once again had to change concourses for my connection and made that too! There were finishing boarding and I ran down the jetway to the plane. The flight attendant was very pleasant, smiling and looked happy! I find my seat, buckle up and realize I'm gonna' make it home. Deep breath! Wait! What's that sound? Really, what's that sound? It sounds like a dog barking. What? Seated behind me is a woman with a tiny dog in one of those purses with the little screen door. And the dog is what my family has always called a snack! (We've always had big dogs!) We are finally in the air and the dogs is still unhappy. I hear her talking to this dog. The next thing I know, the dog is quiet. Wonderful! Well, in actuality, she has removed the dog from its' screened purse and is holding it. And then the flight attendant passes by and politely tells this lady "Delta rules" state the dog must remain in its' carrier. Geeze Louise! Back in goes the dog and it resumes its' lamenting until landing in Pellston.
We are ONE HOUR AND THIRTY MINUTES LATE!!!
I thought any problems with my trip were now over. I was home! However, my luggage was not. Mr. Delta, in addition to paying way too much for my ticket, I paid you an extra $25 to check my baggage for the trip to Louisville and another $25 for the trip back, and you can't even keep it on the plane with me! I will tell you Pellston was very kind about my non-arriving luggage. I completed the paperwork and went home. Within 24 hours they had sent me an e-mail telling me they found my luggage and it would be arriving around 3pm and they would then deliver it to my home by 5pm. Thank you. And yes, my luggage made it home...with a huge crack. I've taken a photo of the damage and have e-mailed it to the address on my baggage claim check. Wonder how that's gonna' workout?
I know this has been a long letter, and you'll probably file it in the round file, but I could not let my experience go by without letting you know the problems I faced. I'm sorry for anyone working for you as I would not want to be a team member of a company who holds customer service in such low regard. I even said that to one Delta employee. I suggested they find another job. I do not belong to your preferred customer club as I do not want you to think I like you! I don't! And if you treat your preferred customers better than you treat me, SHAME ON YOU!!!! Yes, I'll definitely fly Delta again I'm sorry to say but there's that monopoly thing again! I have my fingers crossed you or someone will heed my words. Customer service is the most important thing you can do to insure success. You have lost track of that concept.
Good Luck in 2014. You're gonna' need it!
Wednesday, December 18, 2013
In the overall scheme of things...
How many times do we allow ourselves to get upset and frustrated over things that can be resolved?
Because it is so cold up here and with a foot and a half of snow on the ground, I do not make it to the post office every day. I finally went Monday and brought home what looked like an exciting assortment of Christmas cards plus a few other pieces of mail. Once home, I sorted it all and opened the cards first. Love Christmas cards. They're another way to keep in touch with those you love. I always touch the signature believing I am touching that friend's hand. Then I go through the other mail. I saw a piece from Lincoln Financial Group and opened it. I have TWO life insurance policies with them and figured it was a notice to tell me my premiums were going up again. (I have this set up as a monthly automatic withdrawal from my checking account.) This, of course, is insurance crap and HC Baker always took care of this. In a nutshell, here's what the letter said.
First of all, the salutation read "Dear Policyholder". (I've been paying you money for years and you can't even use my name?) The letter told me they had not received payments for this particular policy since January 26, 2012. That's almost TWO years ago! I should tell you now that I don't balance my checkbook each month. I go on-line every 3 or 4 days to check my balance, scroll through to see what's been paid, see what's yet to be paid and make sure there's enough money to cover it all. I see Lincoln Financial every month so I don't give it another thought. Well...remember when I told you in the last paragraph I have TWO life policies with them. It seems only one was "drafting" from my account. The letter went on to tell me during this nearly TWO year "lapse", the policy has been in force with no break in coverage (I wonder what the story would have been had I died during this time!!!) Continuing with the letter...They want me to send "back" payment by January 2, 2014, or the policy will lapse for non-payment of premiums. If I have any questions, I'm to call the person who sent me the letter at the number which is listed below.
OK - I NEED OXYGEN NOW!!!!!!!!!! I'm not even close to being any kind of genius, but do you mean to tell me a company as large as this one is just now, after TWO years, discovering I have not paid a premium? Who are these people? I check the envelop and the letterhead to make sure it's not from some prince in Africa and then dial the number.
I'll give you the abbreviated version of this because you won't believe most of it anyway. The following is all true I swear!
Letter sender call - She's not "in" today but if I need immediate assistance call back and ask for could not understand the name and press could not understand the extension number.
Called back and listened to press one for this and press two for that and I pressed 3 for idiots!
Connected to Sharon - explained my situation and she connected (wanted to get rid of me fast!!!) me to Robert. Get ready because here's where the fun begins. Robert sounded 12 but assured me he could help. Robert also called me Jo Ann. DEEP BREATHS!!!! He could not help me and I asked to speak with his supervisor. Robert told me his supervisor was not in. I asked for his supervisor's supervisor. He's not in either. I asked if they had their office Christmas party over the weekend and everyone had stayed home to get sober. Robert told me there was no reason for me to be rude. DEEPER BREATHS HERE!!!! I asked Robert who the president of the company was and he told me Dennis Glass was the President, but he wouldn't be interested in talking to me. DEEPEST BREATHS HERE!!!! I asked for Mr. Glass's number. Robert didn't know it. As I'm talking to Robert, I "google" Dennis Glass and discover his office is in Radnor, PA, his address and phone number. I give the phone number to Robert and hang up.
I call back using the corporate number to reach the main "switchboard" (if that word is even used anymore) and a lovely woman answers. I quickly explain my situation and frustration with all those who words have proceeded this call and ask to speak to the highest ranking person at this address. She told me that would be Mr. Perez who is the Director of this office that houses over 3000 employees. I asked her if she would connect me to him and she said "certainly"! (Good Girl!) Lo and behold, Mr. John Perez answered his own phone. I was shocked and told him so! I also told him I could tell we were on speaker phone and if he had any others in his office, he might want to turn that off. I began my re-cap of conversations. He was incredibly polite, listened without interruption, and apologized for all of the unacceptable responses I had so far received. I gave him names and key words like policyholder and being called Jo Ann and everybody off today and un-understandable messages and the list goes on. He promised me he would get back to me within 24 hours and gave me his direct phone number. So ends Monday!
Tuesday, 2:35pm! I answer my phone and meet April. She says she wants to help me. So as not to waste her time or mine, I ask her if she has talked to Mr. Perez and she says YES. Ok, let the conversation begin. I repeat Monday's conversations and ask her if she is amazed by all this and she replies YES. I also told her my insurance husband is dead and I am continuing to learn how to do all this stuff, and I tell her I do not do a very good job with my checkbook. She tells me she is so glad I called because she has been made aware they have a few training issues. She apologizes repeatedly and assures me she will personally deal with all of this. She also tells me the company will make whatever arrangements are necessary for me to make the "lapsed" payments. She's actually listening and understanding my issues. We really had a lovely conversation and actually laughed together a few times.
I don't know if y'all do the same thing but whenever I have this kind of experience, I have to tell someone about it just to say it again. Stupid I know but necessary. So my next call is to a very dear friend, and I ask him to just listen to my story. I tell him not to offer any help or explanations, just listen to me. I repeat all of this and then get all "weepy" and tell him I have to end this conversation and I hang up. What's wrong with me??????? So I spend the next two hours attending my very own "pitty" party by myself (of course) and then fix myself a bowl of grits! Later, my dear friend is brave enough to call me back.
So this morning I call the money man and tell him to unload something so I can write a check to this company. I won't be buyin' that airplane I wanted! (That was a joke!) And now I've written it all down for you to read. I won't blame you or think less of you if you don't read it. It's a pretty long story and all about me...again! I will believe that you love me so in the overall scheme of things what else matters? I have wonderful FRIENDS!
P.S. I now cannot afford stamps for my Christmas cards so here's your greeting.
I LOVE YOU ALL! MERRY CHRISTMAS TO EACH OF YOU AND BEST WISHES FOR A HAPPY, HEALTHY 2014! XXOO
Because it is so cold up here and with a foot and a half of snow on the ground, I do not make it to the post office every day. I finally went Monday and brought home what looked like an exciting assortment of Christmas cards plus a few other pieces of mail. Once home, I sorted it all and opened the cards first. Love Christmas cards. They're another way to keep in touch with those you love. I always touch the signature believing I am touching that friend's hand. Then I go through the other mail. I saw a piece from Lincoln Financial Group and opened it. I have TWO life insurance policies with them and figured it was a notice to tell me my premiums were going up again. (I have this set up as a monthly automatic withdrawal from my checking account.) This, of course, is insurance crap and HC Baker always took care of this. In a nutshell, here's what the letter said.
First of all, the salutation read "Dear Policyholder". (I've been paying you money for years and you can't even use my name?) The letter told me they had not received payments for this particular policy since January 26, 2012. That's almost TWO years ago! I should tell you now that I don't balance my checkbook each month. I go on-line every 3 or 4 days to check my balance, scroll through to see what's been paid, see what's yet to be paid and make sure there's enough money to cover it all. I see Lincoln Financial every month so I don't give it another thought. Well...remember when I told you in the last paragraph I have TWO life policies with them. It seems only one was "drafting" from my account. The letter went on to tell me during this nearly TWO year "lapse", the policy has been in force with no break in coverage (I wonder what the story would have been had I died during this time!!!) Continuing with the letter...They want me to send "back" payment by January 2, 2014, or the policy will lapse for non-payment of premiums. If I have any questions, I'm to call the person who sent me the letter at the number which is listed below.
OK - I NEED OXYGEN NOW!!!!!!!!!! I'm not even close to being any kind of genius, but do you mean to tell me a company as large as this one is just now, after TWO years, discovering I have not paid a premium? Who are these people? I check the envelop and the letterhead to make sure it's not from some prince in Africa and then dial the number.
I'll give you the abbreviated version of this because you won't believe most of it anyway. The following is all true I swear!
Letter sender call - She's not "in" today but if I need immediate assistance call back and ask for could not understand the name and press could not understand the extension number.
Called back and listened to press one for this and press two for that and I pressed 3 for idiots!
Connected to Sharon - explained my situation and she connected (wanted to get rid of me fast!!!) me to Robert. Get ready because here's where the fun begins. Robert sounded 12 but assured me he could help. Robert also called me Jo Ann. DEEP BREATHS!!!! He could not help me and I asked to speak with his supervisor. Robert told me his supervisor was not in. I asked for his supervisor's supervisor. He's not in either. I asked if they had their office Christmas party over the weekend and everyone had stayed home to get sober. Robert told me there was no reason for me to be rude. DEEPER BREATHS HERE!!!! I asked Robert who the president of the company was and he told me Dennis Glass was the President, but he wouldn't be interested in talking to me. DEEPEST BREATHS HERE!!!! I asked for Mr. Glass's number. Robert didn't know it. As I'm talking to Robert, I "google" Dennis Glass and discover his office is in Radnor, PA, his address and phone number. I give the phone number to Robert and hang up.
I call back using the corporate number to reach the main "switchboard" (if that word is even used anymore) and a lovely woman answers. I quickly explain my situation and frustration with all those who words have proceeded this call and ask to speak to the highest ranking person at this address. She told me that would be Mr. Perez who is the Director of this office that houses over 3000 employees. I asked her if she would connect me to him and she said "certainly"! (Good Girl!) Lo and behold, Mr. John Perez answered his own phone. I was shocked and told him so! I also told him I could tell we were on speaker phone and if he had any others in his office, he might want to turn that off. I began my re-cap of conversations. He was incredibly polite, listened without interruption, and apologized for all of the unacceptable responses I had so far received. I gave him names and key words like policyholder and being called Jo Ann and everybody off today and un-understandable messages and the list goes on. He promised me he would get back to me within 24 hours and gave me his direct phone number. So ends Monday!
Tuesday, 2:35pm! I answer my phone and meet April. She says she wants to help me. So as not to waste her time or mine, I ask her if she has talked to Mr. Perez and she says YES. Ok, let the conversation begin. I repeat Monday's conversations and ask her if she is amazed by all this and she replies YES. I also told her my insurance husband is dead and I am continuing to learn how to do all this stuff, and I tell her I do not do a very good job with my checkbook. She tells me she is so glad I called because she has been made aware they have a few training issues. She apologizes repeatedly and assures me she will personally deal with all of this. She also tells me the company will make whatever arrangements are necessary for me to make the "lapsed" payments. She's actually listening and understanding my issues. We really had a lovely conversation and actually laughed together a few times.
I don't know if y'all do the same thing but whenever I have this kind of experience, I have to tell someone about it just to say it again. Stupid I know but necessary. So my next call is to a very dear friend, and I ask him to just listen to my story. I tell him not to offer any help or explanations, just listen to me. I repeat all of this and then get all "weepy" and tell him I have to end this conversation and I hang up. What's wrong with me??????? So I spend the next two hours attending my very own "pitty" party by myself (of course) and then fix myself a bowl of grits! Later, my dear friend is brave enough to call me back.
So this morning I call the money man and tell him to unload something so I can write a check to this company. I won't be buyin' that airplane I wanted! (That was a joke!) And now I've written it all down for you to read. I won't blame you or think less of you if you don't read it. It's a pretty long story and all about me...again! I will believe that you love me so in the overall scheme of things what else matters? I have wonderful FRIENDS!
P.S. I now cannot afford stamps for my Christmas cards so here's your greeting.
I LOVE YOU ALL! MERRY CHRISTMAS TO EACH OF YOU AND BEST WISHES FOR A HAPPY, HEALTHY 2014! XXOO
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