Months ago we had planned to see my Mother-in-Law for her birthday (this coming Monday). Then we had the unexpected pleasure to be invited to a wedding that we had assumed was going to be "family" only...which happens to be next Saturday. After determining that we would do both - because honestly, we can't NOT go see my MIL NOR can we decline this wedding invitation. She is in her 80's, healthy but still...
And the groom is a child we've known since he was teeny, tiny...
So both are TOTALLY necessary.
Despite The Husband's misgivings (insert eye roll here...by now, we all know how he can be sometimes...God love him.), I told him that it was non-negotiable; we would be attending both - I promised him that when he gets to be 80 he won't look back and say, "Boy, I really regret that we went to that wedding so soon after going to see mom". To his credit, he is cautiously optimistic that both events will be fun (they will be...as he will discover once we get there).
Knowing we had all this coming up, I have kept a running list of what needed to be done. At the top of that list was purchasing shoes for The Husband to wear at the wedding (because God help me, if I have to hear him complain about his dress shoes ONE more time...). Back in the day, I would have just bought what I thought best and brought them home for him to try. But lately, he has decided he has an "opinion" when it comes to what he wears (I have informed him that's fine but I have final veto power - he has yet to question my power, thank God) so he wanted to come along.
Except that was a dirty lie!!
I've been asking him for the past three weekends to join me in a shoe search. And every weekend he has declined.
So guess what we had to do today? In addition to laundry, packing, watering plants, etc. If you guessed, find shoes, you get the gold star!
As we both had errands to run this morning we went our separate ways and then we met up at one store. No luck.
So went to the next...(he refused to pay THAT much for a pair of shoes. Despite me telling him that this would probably be the last pair of dress shoes he'd ever buy - apparently, he took that to mean I was declaring him at death's door! But what I really meant was, that as rarely as he needs to wear dress shoes these shoes would last him for YEARS...he wasn't buying it).
And then the next.
And then the next. (Is it my fault that department stores cater to women and have a very slim selection when it comes to the men's department?! Or that he decided that he NEEDED to be involved in the selection process?)
Took a break for lunch and then hit the next store - success!
Although, to be truthful, I think he was just so worn down from the process of looking at and trying on shoes, that he just caved...on it all. He didn't care how much the shoes cost (but we DID luck into a great deal!) or what they looked like...he just couldn't bear the thought of going to one or more stores.
Now we are home - one of us is finishing up the laundry and packing her stuff (while simultaneously crafting this post). And the other might be napping on the couch with nothing packed...
It's gonna be a fun week...if we make it!
September 22, 2018
September 16, 2018
Florence Update.
As you all know, Hurricane Florence slammed into Wilmington, North Carolina last Friday and thoughts and prayers are with those that were affected. Man-Child and I were in that area recently and are heartbroken at the devastation.
Then we were told to brace for the after effects that we would feel inland. And the hype was/is getting us all very nervous. Knowing that we had a few trees that are "iffy" on one side of our house...the side our bedroom is on, of course. I determined that I would be sleeping on the other side of the house for the time being.
We've had rain but, so far, not nearly the amount that we were told to expect. We've also had some wind but, again, not nearly as strong as what we were told to expect. But yet, the news reports keep telling us to be on alert. I can honestly say that I don't think we have too much to worry about at this point but who knows? They are the ones with the education, tools and experience. So we shall see.
I grabbed this screen shot from CNN.com this afternoon and was relieved to see that we aren't in the direct track and wondered why local new stations were still issuing flood warnings.
Then I saw this screen shot (also taken from Cnn.com) and it became clear...
Probably because the storm (now a tropical depression) is SO big! As you can see, it is covering both North and South Carolina and is overlapping into Virginia and Georgia as well! So although we aren't in the direct path we are getting hit with the outer bands - which explains the hype.
And as I was typing this a tweet came across my feed stating that there is flash flooding in Charlotte...which, as you can see, also isn't in the direct path.
I do have a funny story to share - although, especially to my husband, it wasn't funny at the time. Friday evening as we were battening down the hatches in preparation for the worst, I asked The Husband to bring in the chairs from the front porch. At that time they were calling for really high winds. He told me that there was no need but I insisted.
Being the great husband he is he acquiesced. But, for some reason, rather than carrying the chairs down the steps and around the house into the garage he decided to carry the chairs through the house and into the garage. As he was carrying the second chair in he felt pain in his finger. He put the chair down and that's when he noticed he had just carried a wasps nest INTO the house! The sneaky buggers had made a home under the chair. Then he began trying to kill all the wasps. Luckily, there were only a few of those wasps so he was able to dispatch them fairly quickly but, I have to tell you, having wasps flying around in the house led to a bit of hysteria.
We put some baking soda on his swollen finger and once the pain and swelling from the sting subsided even he had to admit it was kinda funny...who brings a wasps nest into the house? Especially, given with his history with bees. Apparently, it is his destiny to spend his whole life having run ins with wasps and bees. I've lost count of how many bee stories he has under his belt now.
So that's the update. Currently, we are safe and most likely will not be in any danger...but I will still be sleeping on the other side of the house until this storm has passed because I still don't trust those "iffy" trees...and we will be getting someone out here to assess those trees sooner rather than later!
And, of course, as I was just getting ready to hit "Publish" both the wind and the rain has stepped it up quite a bit. I still think we will be okay but will be keeping an eye on the news...
UDATED: It's REALLY pouring now and we have a bit of standing water...but we are going to be okay. I just hope we don't lose electricity...
Then we were told to brace for the after effects that we would feel inland. And the hype was/is getting us all very nervous. Knowing that we had a few trees that are "iffy" on one side of our house...the side our bedroom is on, of course. I determined that I would be sleeping on the other side of the house for the time being.
We've had rain but, so far, not nearly the amount that we were told to expect. We've also had some wind but, again, not nearly as strong as what we were told to expect. But yet, the news reports keep telling us to be on alert. I can honestly say that I don't think we have too much to worry about at this point but who knows? They are the ones with the education, tools and experience. So we shall see.
I grabbed this screen shot from CNN.com this afternoon and was relieved to see that we aren't in the direct track and wondered why local new stations were still issuing flood warnings.
Then I saw this screen shot (also taken from Cnn.com) and it became clear...
Probably because the storm (now a tropical depression) is SO big! As you can see, it is covering both North and South Carolina and is overlapping into Virginia and Georgia as well! So although we aren't in the direct path we are getting hit with the outer bands - which explains the hype.
And as I was typing this a tweet came across my feed stating that there is flash flooding in Charlotte...which, as you can see, also isn't in the direct path.
I do have a funny story to share - although, especially to my husband, it wasn't funny at the time. Friday evening as we were battening down the hatches in preparation for the worst, I asked The Husband to bring in the chairs from the front porch. At that time they were calling for really high winds. He told me that there was no need but I insisted.
Being the great husband he is he acquiesced. But, for some reason, rather than carrying the chairs down the steps and around the house into the garage he decided to carry the chairs through the house and into the garage. As he was carrying the second chair in he felt pain in his finger. He put the chair down and that's when he noticed he had just carried a wasps nest INTO the house! The sneaky buggers had made a home under the chair. Then he began trying to kill all the wasps. Luckily, there were only a few of those wasps so he was able to dispatch them fairly quickly but, I have to tell you, having wasps flying around in the house led to a bit of hysteria.
We put some baking soda on his swollen finger and once the pain and swelling from the sting subsided even he had to admit it was kinda funny...who brings a wasps nest into the house? Especially, given with his history with bees. Apparently, it is his destiny to spend his whole life having run ins with wasps and bees. I've lost count of how many bee stories he has under his belt now.
So that's the update. Currently, we are safe and most likely will not be in any danger...but I will still be sleeping on the other side of the house until this storm has passed because I still don't trust those "iffy" trees...and we will be getting someone out here to assess those trees sooner rather than later!
And, of course, as I was just getting ready to hit "Publish" both the wind and the rain has stepped it up quite a bit. I still think we will be okay but will be keeping an eye on the news...
UDATED: It's REALLY pouring now and we have a bit of standing water...but we are going to be okay. I just hope we don't lose electricity...
September 8, 2018
Despite my fears, these two knuckleheads pulled it together enough to get the lights and internet turned on before today...
Today was officially "move in" day for Man-Child and his buddy. And although, I had my doubts as the title infers, they did manage to get the basics set up. AND, as a bonus, were able to wrangle some extra bodies to help with the actual move; thank God because The Husband and I are way too old to be wrestling furniture up three flights of stairs.
To be perfectly honest, I carried one VERY light box and was finished with the actual "moving" part quite early on in the process. From there I moved on to the emptying boxes, washing dishes, finding homes for said dishes, arranging furniture and buying a few necessities that the boys surely never even thought about...like shower curtain liners and toilet paper.
Of course, being the tornado that Man-Child is he has left a swath of destruction in his wake...along with a great deal of stuff that he didn't think to bring with him. Which means that I will be packing up the detritus and hauling it over to his apartment sometime in the near future. Then I get the joy of cleaning out and rearranging the rest of it. A mom's work is never done.
Dropping him off at college was probably the hardest thing I've ever done but this? This is the weirdest. When we dropped him off at college I knew he'd be coming back home eventually. But now...we won't be waiting for him to come home and that is a little unsettling but I am excited for him. He's moving into adulthood officially. And while I still sometimes miss that sweet, little guy I am so extremely proud of the adult he has become.
Of course, he still has one foot still in the door as he has already informed me that he will most likely stay here most Friday nights during high school football season as our house is closer to the school where he coaches.
And then, of course, the lure of food will be strong...since I'm not confident that these two guys can actually cook anything as tasty as The Husband. And I'm sure the promise of some of mom's baked goods will bring him running.
"Theoretically" Man-Child is moving out tomorrow. I have my doubts since nothing is packed and, from what I understand, no one has called the power company...or more importantly, the internet provider. #weshallsee Is the urge to say "Told you" strong? Yes, it is. #bitingmytongue— Gigi (@gigirambles) September 7, 2018
To be perfectly honest, I carried one VERY light box and was finished with the actual "moving" part quite early on in the process. From there I moved on to the emptying boxes, washing dishes, finding homes for said dishes, arranging furniture and buying a few necessities that the boys surely never even thought about...like shower curtain liners and toilet paper.
Of course, being the tornado that Man-Child is he has left a swath of destruction in his wake...along with a great deal of stuff that he didn't think to bring with him. Which means that I will be packing up the detritus and hauling it over to his apartment sometime in the near future. Then I get the joy of cleaning out and rearranging the rest of it. A mom's work is never done.
Dropping him off at college was probably the hardest thing I've ever done but this? This is the weirdest. When we dropped him off at college I knew he'd be coming back home eventually. But now...we won't be waiting for him to come home and that is a little unsettling but I am excited for him. He's moving into adulthood officially. And while I still sometimes miss that sweet, little guy I am so extremely proud of the adult he has become.
Of course, he still has one foot still in the door as he has already informed me that he will most likely stay here most Friday nights during high school football season as our house is closer to the school where he coaches.
And then, of course, the lure of food will be strong...since I'm not confident that these two guys can actually cook anything as tasty as The Husband. And I'm sure the promise of some of mom's baked goods will bring him running.
August 25, 2018
If you give a husband an inch; he'll take a mile.
In my ideal life, most of my counters would be clear of clutter. But I live with two other people.
This one corner of our kitchen counter has been taken over by The Husband.
It all started because The Husband insisted that this was THE perfect area where he could charge his phones. I said fine; I will find you a box to store the charging cables when not in use. So I bought a nondescript, little box to sit on the very end of the counter...and, as you can see, we ended up with this mess...which is slowly creeping further and further out onto the counter.
The Husband, God love him, doesn't see this as "clutter." Much like he doesn't see the olive oil, the spice grinder, various spices, oven mitts or the NutriBullet (that no one uses) left out on the counter as "clutter." He is of the mind that he will need it again eventually anyway; so why put it away? Here's the answer - because it MAKES. ME. CRAZY.
After looking at this mess all day, and because The Husband is gone until tomorrow afternoon, guess what I'm doing tomorrow?
Yep, dealing with his clutter.
And when he comes home, I will show him where his "stuff" belongs and he will agree to keep his "stuff" where it belongs...until, ever so slowly, it will begin to creep back onto the counter.
It's a never ending cycle people.
This one corner of our kitchen counter has been taken over by The Husband.
It all started because The Husband insisted that this was THE perfect area where he could charge his phones. I said fine; I will find you a box to store the charging cables when not in use. So I bought a nondescript, little box to sit on the very end of the counter...and, as you can see, we ended up with this mess...which is slowly creeping further and further out onto the counter.
The Husband, God love him, doesn't see this as "clutter." Much like he doesn't see the olive oil, the spice grinder, various spices, oven mitts or the NutriBullet (that no one uses) left out on the counter as "clutter." He is of the mind that he will need it again eventually anyway; so why put it away? Here's the answer - because it MAKES. ME. CRAZY.
After looking at this mess all day, and because The Husband is gone until tomorrow afternoon, guess what I'm doing tomorrow?
Yep, dealing with his clutter.
And when he comes home, I will show him where his "stuff" belongs and he will agree to keep his "stuff" where it belongs...until, ever so slowly, it will begin to creep back onto the counter.
It's a never ending cycle people.
August 23, 2018
Instant Karma - how sweet it is
We've all heard of karma; but generally we aren't around to witness it, which is SO unsatisfying. Instant karma; though rare, sometimes happens and when it does, it is VERY satisfying.
One of my biggest pet peeves is people who tailgate...well, it's a toss-up between that and people who don't use their turn signals. And I don't know about where you live but here we have a flat out epidemic on our hands with tailgaters and non-turn signal users. It's really crazy and drives me batty. And no one seems to realize how reckless and dangerous both of these things are; and day by day it seems to be getting worse.
At any rate, on my way home from work this evening, a car being driven by a very road-ragey person raced up behind me and attached themselves practically to my bumper. Now, I don't know about you but generally I have an urge to S.L.O.W. D.O.W.N. even further but, as usual, I resisted that urge because honestly, you have no idea what the road-ragey types are capable of or if they are carrying a gun and are willing to use it - such are the times we currently live. And really, that is the better strategy and way safer than engaging or even prodding their rage.
As soon as practical, I pulled into the right lane and this person sped on by. Earlier in my commute, I had noticed an marked police car travelling the same route. I had no way of knowing if this police car was still on the same road or not.
A couple of minutes later, I saw flashing lights up ahead and I muttered, "Good. I hope it's road-ragey person!" And it was!!!
I don't know if they got pulled for tailgating or speeding but either way, I felt vindicated.
Now, the odds of being pulled over rectifying this person's behavior is slim - but still...instant karma. Can't deny it - I drove by with a huge smile.
One of my biggest pet peeves is people who tailgate...well, it's a toss-up between that and people who don't use their turn signals. And I don't know about where you live but here we have a flat out epidemic on our hands with tailgaters and non-turn signal users. It's really crazy and drives me batty. And no one seems to realize how reckless and dangerous both of these things are; and day by day it seems to be getting worse.
At any rate, on my way home from work this evening, a car being driven by a very road-ragey person raced up behind me and attached themselves practically to my bumper. Now, I don't know about you but generally I have an urge to S.L.O.W. D.O.W.N. even further but, as usual, I resisted that urge because honestly, you have no idea what the road-ragey types are capable of or if they are carrying a gun and are willing to use it - such are the times we currently live. And really, that is the better strategy and way safer than engaging or even prodding their rage.
As soon as practical, I pulled into the right lane and this person sped on by. Earlier in my commute, I had noticed an marked police car travelling the same route. I had no way of knowing if this police car was still on the same road or not.
A couple of minutes later, I saw flashing lights up ahead and I muttered, "Good. I hope it's road-ragey person!" And it was!!!
I don't know if they got pulled for tailgating or speeding but either way, I felt vindicated.
Now, the odds of being pulled over rectifying this person's behavior is slim - but still...instant karma. Can't deny it - I drove by with a huge smile.
August 21, 2018
A Wedding Dilemma...
We have a wedding to attend. This is momentous only because it coincides with a trip up north to visit my beloved Mother-In-Law.
Let us ponder why is this momentous. Because I have managed to convince The Husband that BOTH events NEED to happen. Will it be inconvenient? Yes. Will it be expensive? Yes. Is The Husband's anxiety ratcheted up beyond his normal levels? Yes. Do both need to happen? Yes.
We have watched this boy grow up since before kindergarten. His family considers us family. The trip up north is important because The Husband's mother isn't getting any younger (thank God, she's in good health, but still...) so it is ALL important.
At any rate, we are going to the wedding. Usually, I know the etiquette for these types of things...but this one is stumping me.
The (church) ceremony is at 2:00 pm - which denotes a certain type of dress. The reception isn't until 5:00 pm - which gives a little more leeway regarding the dress. The Husband, bless him, is stuck in a suit either way.
So what do you think - do I wear one dress for the church and another for the reception? Or do I need to find that ONE (elusive) particular dress that works for both situations?
Let us ponder why is this momentous. Because I have managed to convince The Husband that BOTH events NEED to happen. Will it be inconvenient? Yes. Will it be expensive? Yes. Is The Husband's anxiety ratcheted up beyond his normal levels? Yes. Do both need to happen? Yes.
We have watched this boy grow up since before kindergarten. His family considers us family. The trip up north is important because The Husband's mother isn't getting any younger (thank God, she's in good health, but still...) so it is ALL important.
At any rate, we are going to the wedding. Usually, I know the etiquette for these types of things...but this one is stumping me.
The (church) ceremony is at 2:00 pm - which denotes a certain type of dress. The reception isn't until 5:00 pm - which gives a little more leeway regarding the dress. The Husband, bless him, is stuck in a suit either way.
So what do you think - do I wear one dress for the church and another for the reception? Or do I need to find that ONE (elusive) particular dress that works for both situations?
August 16, 2018
The Patron Saint of Liars by Ann Patchett...a book review
Generally, I don't read via Kindle unless I'm caught somewhere where I don't have a book or something else to do. Not because I'm a Luddite; but more because I prefer the heft of a book in my hand. And, to be perfectly honest, I haul around enough crap every day that I don't want to add a book to that equation.
Nevertheless, I found myself in that exact situation the other day (i.e., book-less and nothing else to occupy my time), so I utilized my Prime Membership and downloaded this book from Prime Reading.
The synopsis from Amazon:
"In 1992, celebrated novelist Ann Patchett launched her remarkable career with the publication of her debut novel, The Patron Saint of Liars. On this 25th anniversary, read the best-selling book that is "beautifully written...a first novel that second-and third-time novelists would envy for its grace, insight, and compassion" (Boston Herald).
St. Elizabeth's, a home for unwed mothers in Habit, Kentucky, usually harbors its residents for only a little while. Not so Rose Clinton, a beautiful, mysterious woman who comes to the home pregnant but not unwed, and stays. She plans to give up her child, thinking she cannot be the mother it needs. But when Cecilia is born, Rose makes a place for herself and her daughter amid St. Elizabeth's extended family of nuns and an ever-changing collection of pregnant teenage girls. Rose's past won't be kept away though, even by St. Elizabeth's; she cannot remain untouched by what she has left behind, even as she cannot change who she has become in the leaving."
I can see why this story was a best-selling one (and can't believe I haven't found it before now); as it was very compelling and kept you guessing. I thorough enjoyed this story though I must say that simultaneously I was and was not surprised by the character, Rose. Without a doubt, this character is an enigma and by the end of the story you will find that she remains an enigma. This isn't one of those stories that is formulaic or one, where from the very beginning you know how it will end - all tied up in a neat, little package.
Since this book's debut 25 years ago, this author has gone on to write nine more books (not all novels; from what I can surmise); most of which seem to have achieved the NY Times Best-Seller status. When I chose this book, I knew the author's name sounded familiar but I couldn't place why it sounded so familiar...until I looked at the author's website...apparently, one of her later novels was on one of Man-Child's summer reading lists in high school. He enjoyed it well enough (even though it really wasn't his "thing") that he passed it on to me - I only have a vague memory of reading the book and enjoying it (such as it is when one is BOTH aging and a voracious reader - unless I do a review on it, I generally only remember vestiges of the story).
After perusing her website, I feel sure that I could enjoy reading other titles by this author.
Nevertheless, I found myself in that exact situation the other day (i.e., book-less and nothing else to occupy my time), so I utilized my Prime Membership and downloaded this book from Prime Reading.
The synopsis from Amazon:
"In 1992, celebrated novelist Ann Patchett launched her remarkable career with the publication of her debut novel, The Patron Saint of Liars. On this 25th anniversary, read the best-selling book that is "beautifully written...a first novel that second-and third-time novelists would envy for its grace, insight, and compassion" (Boston Herald).
St. Elizabeth's, a home for unwed mothers in Habit, Kentucky, usually harbors its residents for only a little while. Not so Rose Clinton, a beautiful, mysterious woman who comes to the home pregnant but not unwed, and stays. She plans to give up her child, thinking she cannot be the mother it needs. But when Cecilia is born, Rose makes a place for herself and her daughter amid St. Elizabeth's extended family of nuns and an ever-changing collection of pregnant teenage girls. Rose's past won't be kept away though, even by St. Elizabeth's; she cannot remain untouched by what she has left behind, even as she cannot change who she has become in the leaving."
I can see why this story was a best-selling one (and can't believe I haven't found it before now); as it was very compelling and kept you guessing. I thorough enjoyed this story though I must say that simultaneously I was and was not surprised by the character, Rose. Without a doubt, this character is an enigma and by the end of the story you will find that she remains an enigma. This isn't one of those stories that is formulaic or one, where from the very beginning you know how it will end - all tied up in a neat, little package.
Since this book's debut 25 years ago, this author has gone on to write nine more books (not all novels; from what I can surmise); most of which seem to have achieved the NY Times Best-Seller status. When I chose this book, I knew the author's name sounded familiar but I couldn't place why it sounded so familiar...until I looked at the author's website...apparently, one of her later novels was on one of Man-Child's summer reading lists in high school. He enjoyed it well enough (even though it really wasn't his "thing") that he passed it on to me - I only have a vague memory of reading the book and enjoying it (such as it is when one is BOTH aging and a voracious reader - unless I do a review on it, I generally only remember vestiges of the story).
After perusing her website, I feel sure that I could enjoy reading other titles by this author.
August 12, 2018
Scrolling through Twitter yesterday...
...and then this happened.
To which I replied...
Had to show the kids that writers are athletic so I did a cartwheel. What was I thinking.— Carol Paxman (@CarolPaxman) August 11, 2018
To which I replied...
Now I am tempted to see if I can still do one...— Gigi (@gigirambles) August 11, 2018
And then I said...
Turns out I can...but it hurt!— Gigi (@gigirambles) August 11, 2018
To which she replied...
And tomorrow we shall both remember why we don't do cartwheels— Carol Paxman (@CarolPaxman) August 11, 2018
And my final reply...
Well...we CAN...but we probably shouldn't. 😂— Gigi (@gigirambles) August 11, 2018
I am forever grateful that my backyard is secluded so that no one was witness to my VERY sloppy cartwheel...back in the day they were kinda graceful. And now I can feel it in my right thigh. But, I CAN still do a cartwheel...but that may have been my last one...
But now I'm wondering if I can still do a roundoff...
Hmmm...better not chance it today.
But now I'm wondering if I can still do a roundoff...
Hmmm...better not chance it today.
August 11, 2018
A beach trip mainly summarized by where we ate...
I just searched my archives and yes, apparently it has been THREE years since our last one...that is too long between beach visits, in my opinion.
Man-Child and I decided that we needed some time away, since it's been "a while." This is a big year as he has secured his position, an apartment that he will move into next month (apparently, I didn't post about that - so yes, he and a buddy are moving into an apartment next month - the first real step out of the nest).
Usually, when we head to the beach we go to Myrtle Beach, SC - mainly because when he was smaller he just wanted to see and do all the things and not just spend a day at the beach. This time, he declared that we needed to go somewhere new. I decided upon Wrightsville Beach, NC for two reasons. One friend regularly goes there and recommended a hotel/motel and because another friend's father lives there - so she was able to give me two pages of restaurant recommendations...as long time readers might remember...Man-Child likes to eat on the regular.
The hotel/motel (truly more of a motel) was nice. While it is an old building they have kept up with the renovations AND every single unit is an ocean front suite, which is key (in my opinion) for visiting the beach. I have no desire to stay in a place that requires me to hire a pack mule to carry all the necessities down three blocks to the beach. Nor do I want to try to navigate public parking at the beach - that is just a recipe for tears.
Now I will say, Wrightsville Beach does not seem to have all the distractions of Myrtle Beach. I could have happily sat on the beach all the live long day. Man-Child? Still gets antsy after about two hours - that coupled with his need to eat ALL THE DAMN TIME - meant that our actual time on the beach was limited. But, this was fine, since I was able to spend ample time on the balcony looking at and listening to the surf all without getting too much sun - which we can all agree is a good thing.
Technically, we were there for four days and three nights. We arrived mid-afternoon last Sunday - and though we couldn't officially "check in" until 4:00 pm they graciously considered us "registered" so that we could park and spend a few hours on the beach before check in. This may have been the most time that was actually spent "on the beach."
After officially checking in we discovered that my request for two queens meant that one of us (me) got a king size bed in the bedroom while the other was expected to sleep on a queen size pullout in the living room/kitchen area that lead to the balcony. In light of the fact that one of us (me) gets up much earlier than the other, I offered to sleep in the living room/kitchen area - it was vehemently declined...apparently, chivalry is still a thing.
Also, he claims that the pull out was not uncomfortable and it should be noted that his ability to go back to sleep after I tripped over his shoes in the room and I started the coffee maker is uncanny.
After checking in, we cleaned up and headed out to purchase our "supplies" (which may or may not have included the purchase of a wine bottle opener since "someone" forgot she'd already packed one). It should be noted here, that this was a totally unnecessary step since there were no beach "days" in our future. No, our beach time was counted in hours...i.e., an hour here and an hour there - not that I'm complaining. The balcony, remember? It counted. And I had many, many hours on that balcony.
And after purchasing said useless supplies, we looked for a place to have dinner. And, coincidentally, found ourselves at one of my friends recommended places (we didn't know this until later; as we had left her list at the motel); a local hamburger joint where enjoyed, of all things, some petty good hamburgers FYI, I am making note of all the places to eat because Man-Child complained that we NEVER remember the places we loved) before heading back to the motel for the evening.
Rather than recount every single day without further ado these are the restaurants that we visited and LOVED - in the event you find yourself at Wrightsville you will probably not be sorry if you dine at these fine establishments.
My friend whose dad lives in Wrightsville said that we should try paddleboarding. I was not keen on this as I can't really swim and I don't like water in my face (should I fall off). Man-Child was so eager to try it that I eventually gave in...which turned out was a bad idea on my part. Even though we were paddling in the Intercoastal Waterway and NOT the ocean - it had never occurred to me that there would still be a current that I had to battle against and boat wakes. Needless to say, I quickly gave up and headed back to shore where I kind of had to be rescued because I just couldn't make it all the way to the shore. Needless to say, I was quite shaken but kind of proud of myself for having at least tried. Man-Child, on the other hand, had a grand old time...but then again, he can swim. And he has arm muscles...whereas I have noodles for muscles. Would I try it again? Maybe. If we were on a lake and I could just paddle in the shallow area.
As usual, just a couple of days away worked out perfectly for us. The traffic is crazy - which meant that I was always driving past our destination and having to turn around. By Tuesday, every time I had to turn around I would hear a heavy sigh from the passenger seat.
All in all it was a successful trip. And I had the foresight to take Thursday and Friday off as well. I needed this time more than I realized. I haven't had any significant time off since Christmas and I truly needed some downtime. Plus, with all the upcoming changes (i.e., Empty Nest), we needed this time to connect.
I think I'm ready for Monday...no, I'm really not...just trying to talk myself into it!
Man-Child and I decided that we needed some time away, since it's been "a while." This is a big year as he has secured his position, an apartment that he will move into next month (apparently, I didn't post about that - so yes, he and a buddy are moving into an apartment next month - the first real step out of the nest).
Usually, when we head to the beach we go to Myrtle Beach, SC - mainly because when he was smaller he just wanted to see and do all the things and not just spend a day at the beach. This time, he declared that we needed to go somewhere new. I decided upon Wrightsville Beach, NC for two reasons. One friend regularly goes there and recommended a hotel/motel and because another friend's father lives there - so she was able to give me two pages of restaurant recommendations...as long time readers might remember...Man-Child likes to eat on the regular.
The hotel/motel (truly more of a motel) was nice. While it is an old building they have kept up with the renovations AND every single unit is an ocean front suite, which is key (in my opinion) for visiting the beach. I have no desire to stay in a place that requires me to hire a pack mule to carry all the necessities down three blocks to the beach. Nor do I want to try to navigate public parking at the beach - that is just a recipe for tears.
Now I will say, Wrightsville Beach does not seem to have all the distractions of Myrtle Beach. I could have happily sat on the beach all the live long day. Man-Child? Still gets antsy after about two hours - that coupled with his need to eat ALL THE DAMN TIME - meant that our actual time on the beach was limited. But, this was fine, since I was able to spend ample time on the balcony looking at and listening to the surf all without getting too much sun - which we can all agree is a good thing.
Technically, we were there for four days and three nights. We arrived mid-afternoon last Sunday - and though we couldn't officially "check in" until 4:00 pm they graciously considered us "registered" so that we could park and spend a few hours on the beach before check in. This may have been the most time that was actually spent "on the beach."
After officially checking in we discovered that my request for two queens meant that one of us (me) got a king size bed in the bedroom while the other was expected to sleep on a queen size pullout in the living room/kitchen area that lead to the balcony. In light of the fact that one of us (me) gets up much earlier than the other, I offered to sleep in the living room/kitchen area - it was vehemently declined...apparently, chivalry is still a thing.
Also, he claims that the pull out was not uncomfortable and it should be noted that his ability to go back to sleep after I tripped over his shoes in the room and I started the coffee maker is uncanny.
After checking in, we cleaned up and headed out to purchase our "supplies" (which may or may not have included the purchase of a wine bottle opener since "someone" forgot she'd already packed one). It should be noted here, that this was a totally unnecessary step since there were no beach "days" in our future. No, our beach time was counted in hours...i.e., an hour here and an hour there - not that I'm complaining. The balcony, remember? It counted. And I had many, many hours on that balcony.
And after purchasing said useless supplies, we looked for a place to have dinner. And, coincidentally, found ourselves at one of my friends recommended places (we didn't know this until later; as we had left her list at the motel); a local hamburger joint where enjoyed, of all things, some petty good hamburgers FYI, I am making note of all the places to eat because Man-Child complained that we NEVER remember the places we loved) before heading back to the motel for the evening.
Rather than recount every single day without further ado these are the restaurants that we visited and LOVED - in the event you find yourself at Wrightsville you will probably not be sorry if you dine at these fine establishments.
- PT's Old Fashioned Grille - a local hamburger joint (I believe they also served hot dogs and some sandwiches), very tasty.
- Causeway Cafe - We actually ate here twice - once for breakfast and once for lunch. For breakfast I had the Crab Benedict - utterly delicious! One word of caution; they ONLY take cash.
- Bluewater Waterfront Grill - this place was our very favorite! A bit expensive but worth every penny.
- Oceanic Restaurant - this place was tasty and expensive but I preferred the Bluewater. With this restaurant you can eat on the pier. If you opt to do that, try to get seated in the portion of the pier that has a roof. Why? Seagulls. We had seagulls hovering over our heads the whole time.
- King Neptune Restaurant - Based on the meal I ordered but didn't eat, I wouldn't recommend it BUT Man-Child's meal looked and tasted (he claimed) delicious - so I would try it again but just stay away from the biscuits and gravy...trust me.
- Paddy's Hollow - it should be noted that this in not in Wrightsville but in Wilmington about 10-15 minutes away. It is located at The Cotton Exchange, which is chock full of cute shops and some restaurants.
My friend whose dad lives in Wrightsville said that we should try paddleboarding. I was not keen on this as I can't really swim and I don't like water in my face (should I fall off). Man-Child was so eager to try it that I eventually gave in...which turned out was a bad idea on my part. Even though we were paddling in the Intercoastal Waterway and NOT the ocean - it had never occurred to me that there would still be a current that I had to battle against and boat wakes. Needless to say, I quickly gave up and headed back to shore where I kind of had to be rescued because I just couldn't make it all the way to the shore. Needless to say, I was quite shaken but kind of proud of myself for having at least tried. Man-Child, on the other hand, had a grand old time...but then again, he can swim. And he has arm muscles...whereas I have noodles for muscles. Would I try it again? Maybe. If we were on a lake and I could just paddle in the shallow area.
As usual, just a couple of days away worked out perfectly for us. The traffic is crazy - which meant that I was always driving past our destination and having to turn around. By Tuesday, every time I had to turn around I would hear a heavy sigh from the passenger seat.
All in all it was a successful trip. And I had the foresight to take Thursday and Friday off as well. I needed this time more than I realized. I haven't had any significant time off since Christmas and I truly needed some downtime. Plus, with all the upcoming changes (i.e., Empty Nest), we needed this time to connect.
I think I'm ready for Monday...no, I'm really not...just trying to talk myself into it!
July 28, 2018
Remember that door I was SO excited about?
If you don't, you are forgiven since that post is about two months old.
The door - after a SIGNIFICANT delay finally showed up four weeks ago (and it's taken me this long to calm down enough to post about it). But due to conflicting schedules was not able to be installed until the next Friday. As you might imagine, I was SO excited. I should have known...
The installers showed up on time with the door (at this point, I can only assume it was the door I ordered, since I never saw it) only to inform me that it wasn't measured properly.
Are you flipping kidding me?! I specifically told my husband that I was willing to pay for them to come measure because I knew the measurements had to be EXACT. And it's a good thing I did...I guess, since this is on them. But now we are back to square one.
After the installation fiasco, we were told that the store would contact us - they never did. So we drove to Lowe's that Saturday and cancelled the order. The store manager was very apologetic and blamed the delay and the incorrect measurements on the vendor, which tells me they need a new vendor, and that someone needs to address the very serious lack of communication with the customers.
All that aside, I still don't have that door that I was ridiculously excited about...and I have to start over - minus the big box store - speaking of which...where does one go to get a door after deciding that big box stores just aren't up to the task?
And seriously? Who would have thought that a simple, freaking door would be something to be so difficult to get? AND be ridiculously excited about AND be heart broken over? That's the true hallmark of being an adult I suppose.
The door - after a SIGNIFICANT delay finally showed up four weeks ago (and it's taken me this long to calm down enough to post about it). But due to conflicting schedules was not able to be installed until the next Friday. As you might imagine, I was SO excited. I should have known...
The installers showed up on time with the door (at this point, I can only assume it was the door I ordered, since I never saw it) only to inform me that it wasn't measured properly.
Are you flipping kidding me?! I specifically told my husband that I was willing to pay for them to come measure because I knew the measurements had to be EXACT. And it's a good thing I did...I guess, since this is on them. But now we are back to square one.
After the installation fiasco, we were told that the store would contact us - they never did. So we drove to Lowe's that Saturday and cancelled the order. The store manager was very apologetic and blamed the delay and the incorrect measurements on the vendor, which tells me they need a new vendor, and that someone needs to address the very serious lack of communication with the customers.
All that aside, I still don't have that door that I was ridiculously excited about...and I have to start over - minus the big box store - speaking of which...where does one go to get a door after deciding that big box stores just aren't up to the task?
And seriously? Who would have thought that a simple, freaking door would be something to be so difficult to get? AND be ridiculously excited about AND be heart broken over? That's the true hallmark of being an adult I suppose.
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