New Year's Resolutions

It's that time of the year again.  Time to make resolutions and promises we will never keep.  I don't know about you but there are 3 main areas that I am CONSTANTLY striving to fix or change:  Organization, Weight and Finances and these are my thoughts on those issues.

Changing established established habits goes against our grain.  I often wonder if habits are due to nature or nurture.  For instance, I am cluttery and always have been.  My Dad is also cluttery.  Did I inherit more of those crappy genes or did his messiness rub off on me?  I can resolve to be more organized.  I can think positive thoguhts about it every day--but it never happens.  I pile, I sweep, I throw things in drawers or closets.  I can't help it. 

Another common resolution is to lose weight and I have done it many many times.  It takes as much or more work to keep the weight off as it does to lose it in the first place.  It's such a frustrating process.  I know that most weight issues are emoitional and surprisingly I know what my emotional issues are and I've tried to deal with them but they always creep back in.  If there were an easy fix for weight issues most of us would have jumped on that band wagon.  Most people I know or seen who have had gastric bypass have gained the weight back which reinforces to me that most weight issues are emotional. 

Money.  Well, I like to spend money so I work hard to make a lot of it.  That's my resolution.

I don't want to seem cynical but it seems futile to make New Year's resolutions in the first place so why do it? 

Grandma Geiser and Names

Some of you may not know this but the names we choose for our children and the names that we have are a really big deal.  We are judged based on our names.  For example, studies have shown that Jennifers tend to be more popular.  I can't remember the male counterpart for popularity.  When Darrell and I were trying to decide on the name for our son we bought the books, we googled names, we considered many many options.  I was amused for certain names reminded us of others in our past that we liked but mostly disliked so those were not an option.  We narrowed it down to two names--Tristan and Blake.  We considered meaning, how it would sound with Reagan and what would Grandma Geiser think?

Grandma Geiser has an opinion about everything and she is especially opiniated about names.  When she meets someone she usually says,  "Oh, _______ is a beautiful name do you like it?   I don't like my name."    Her name is Mildred and it fits her--to me it represents a strong, unique woman and she is that.  Grandma Mildred is the matriarch supreme of the Geiser clan.   She raised 8 boys and between the grandchildren and great grandchildren--I've lost count.  Anyway, when we produced our off spring , she asks the name and unless it's very old fashioned, she usually grimaces and says, "Oh I don't like that."  I was sure that she would like Blakes name but when we told her she said, "Oh" and to my husband, "What is your middle name? (It's Eugene.) That's a great name, why didn't you name him that?"  I was thinking because we don't want him to be the dork in school.  My theory isn't working out as Blake dresses like Scuba Steve, Erkel or my Dad on any given day and as you know--each of those three tend to be dorky. 

If it isn't a really simple name Grandma will usually call you the wrong name.  My nieces name is Rhiannon and after 10 years, she still calls her Brianna.  My husbands name is Darrell, Laurie's is Dave and my cousin's husband is Doug--all D's--she always mixes them up.  When I was leaving after a visiting session with Grandma, she said--"Tell Doug Hi."  That's Lea's husband but I just said OK. 

As a parent, choosing the name is one of the most important things that we do.  If you pick a popular name, they could be in school with 5 other Dylans.  If you pick a "different" name, people will have trouble spelling and pronouncing it.  My sister named her son Rex and my first comment was, "That's a dog's name."  Then we adopted a dog and his name is Rex.  We should have changed the dog's name because everytime we get together the dog and my nephew are very confused.  I have another nephew who has had so many times that I'm not sure what his name is at times.  He started out as Elijah, then we were informed that his name is really Dawson and then my brother was trying to talk his mother into changing it to Jaeger.  If he has multiple personalities we will know why and why would you want to name your child after a shot that tastes like cough syrup?

We were joking the other day about names that sound ethnic but the person isn't very ethnic.  What do you think when you hear the following names:  Lamont, Jesus, Tanisha, Maya?   If I had a daughter I wanted to name her Lola and others accused me of giving her a stripper name.  Lola is a sassy, creative, kick ass name!    I'm very annoyed by people that name their children after celebrity's children's names or after celebreties.  PUH-LEASE--be more original than that if you want to be original.  Here's a news flash for  ou, if you name your son Ashton, he's not going to end up like Ashton Kutcher.

We so carefully chose our son's name and he asks me the other day, "Why did you name me Blake?  Why didn't you name me Cody?" (Big sigh)   In closing, you may like names that are different but your child may not.  You may like common names but  it's very confusing for the Kindergarten teacher who has 5 others with the same name.  Family names are great but you inherit the name and lots of confusion with identites and such.  I'm impressed with the guy that changed his name to his jersey number--Ocho Cinco--that's cool!  Who knew that I would have so much to say about names?

Sisters

When I was a little girl, I was the first grandchild on my Mother's side of the family and I was the first girl on my Dad's side of the family.   The terms spoiled and child do not coexist in Grandma Mildred's world but on the hill at Grandma and Grandpa Galvans I was spoiled rotten.  I used to wish that I was an only child as I did not like sharing the attention with my siblings but today I cant imagine my life without my sister Laurie or my brothers.  We have had some great times together and we love each other very much.

Before Jeremy was born, Laurie was the "caboose" as lovingly described by my Dad.  As such she was also teased endlessly and left out by my brother Jerry and myself.   I think due to this endless teasing, if you make her mad, you better watch out--she has a temper.  Laurie has always had a sparkle in her eye and a laugh that is very contagious.  We all know that she can't see when she is laughing so make sure you don't tell her a really good joke when she is driving.  She one of the kindest and giving souls on earth.  I know many people, including myself, that have benefited from her lifesaving technique of loving,caring and being johnny on the spot when you need her.  I was going through some tough times several years back and she couldn't get a hold of me for some reason.  She was so worried about me that she drove to Colorado Springs to check on me.  I will never forget that as that was the kind of love I needed at that time.  I had many nights when she listened to me crying and tried to convince me that it would all be OK and it is.  She helps me to see the truths that I can not see.  She has helped me to be a kinder and more understanding person as I have a tendency to harden my heart. 

When we were kids, Jerry and I had a pact not to tell Laurie everything because she would inevitably tell Mom and Dad.  Today, she knows all of my secrets.  I don't know if I would call them deep, dark secrets but she knows.  She also knows the secrets of many others--she is the person that can objectively look at your problems and give you the best of advice.    I don't want to panic anyone but she does have a tough time keeping secrets from me--we tell each other everything.  She also knows that if you tell me something that I can't tell anyone--I will forget about it anyway.   

She has a BIG heart.  If there is someone in need, she will be the first person to help them.  Our friend Louis, teased her after a trip to Los Angeles because she gave something to everyone that asked for help and even went back to find someone that she didn't have change to tip at the time.  He said that they would have never made it from one end of the beach to the other because Laurie stopped to listen to everyone and to help everyone.



There are so many stories that I could tell.  There are so many changes that both of us have been through.  Her daughter, Rhiannon is my God Daughter.  Our sons are only 4 months apart and our dogs Bubba and Mickey were best friends and her husband is like my brother.  My sister Laurie means the world to me and we have the sister bond that many yearn for.  We laugh at each other's weaknesses, we admire each other's strengths.  I wish that we could live right next to each other like Grandma Rita and Grandma Tina did.  We would complain about our husbands and kids (not that there is anything to really complain about) and we would drink whiskey and coffee every morning.  We would get in fights but make up by that afternoon.   One of us would make lunch and the other would make dinner.   For now, we do all of these things over the phone--thank goodness for unlimited long distance.  Thank you God for giving us Laurie even though I didn't recognise this incredible gift when I was a little girl.

GL

There are many people in my life that I truely consider to be one in a million.  Some of you know the person I am about to write about and some of you will not.  I considered the challenging question--"What would you do if you were in the same situation?" however I truely believe that you never really know for sure until you are in that situation with your own personal circumstances.  You can say what you think you would do but the emotions and adrenaline are not in gear.  Your own fears and prejudices don't come into play yet so lets face it, we never really know.  The question is, if someone you loved dearly and someone you were related to committed an act that was shocking and distrubing--would you remain by their side?  Would you offer them support, love and kindness when dealing with the reality of what they had done?

I know and love someone who has done this.  Someone who was there even though the judgement for someone else's action bled over to her and their Mother.  She has been there alone, to support and to rally for a healthy recovery.  She has been there during the holidays and made long trips to rally for justice.  She has even questioned herself asking if she could have done something to prevent the tragedy.  There aren't enough people in the world like this and I respect her more than she or anyone can know.  She is a great Mother, an incredible wife and the best sister.  She is someone I would want by my side when the waters are troubled.  I definitely want her around during happy times.

I know she has had some regrets in life but in every difficult moment and life decision she has:
made the selfless decision to support others
to love no matter what
to see the best in others even when they do not see the best in her
to forgive even the unforgiveable
to be the one person you can always count on
to continue living, smiling and laughing. 

As I said before, she is one in a million.  I love you and God bless you--you are an amazing woman. 

Grandma Geiser

When I grow up I want to be just like my Grandma Geiser.  Grandma is a spunky 96 year old  One of the perks of being 96 is you can pretty much say whatever you are thinking without getting in too much trouble although Grandma has always said exactly what's on her mind.  

Geiser's have a tendency to tell the same stories over and over.  Most of us can probably repeat most of their trucking and football stories verbatim.   There is one story that Grandma tells all the time and every time it touches my heart and brings a tear to my eye.  Grandma and Grandpa Geiser raised seven boys and one girl and long before it was fashionable they worked side by side on the ranch,driving trucks and raising their family.  Grandpa died many many years ago and Grandma still misses him like it was yesterday.  She goes to his grave to update him on everything going on and she still feels his presence.  She had this dream that they were at a dance and the music playing was very beautiful.  Grandpa walks up to her, smiles and holds out his hand so they can dance to the song together.  She stands up ready to dance with him and just as she is about to grab his hand she wakes up.  Grandma wonders what would have happened if she would have grabbed his hand before she woke up and my heart flutters every time at the thought.  Then she says, "We didn't have much but we had enough."  Grandma is a tough lady but the loss of her husband and partner of many years is something she still has not recovered from.

She tells the best stories and my blog will be an attempt to record them for I regret not doing the same with my Grandma Tina and Grandma Rita.  If we don't remember them and pass them down, they are forgotten and they shouldn't be as memories are some of the most valuable moments in our lives and in the lives of our relatives before us.  More Grandma Geiser stories to follow.  :)

Social Marketing

So this guy gave a presentation in our sales meeting today about social marketing.  Basically, the pitch was to Facebook and Tweet to generate clients.  I understand that I can use my blog to establish myself as an expert in marketing and to give advise on how to generate more customers.  However, I enjoy Facebook as it offers the opportunity to keep in touch with family and friends in a way we have never been able to.  You can literally stay in touch with people on a daily basis and you know how they feel, what they've been doing and the "complicated" relationship status.  I like being able to joke about something without worrying about who we might offend.  I like complaining about the Broncos.  I don't think that work should pervade our lives so much that we can not be ourselves.   As it is I can't watch TV, read a newspaper or drive around town without prospecting or observing marketing campaigns and some of it really amuses me. 

Marketing articles, books and lectures discuss how businesses can use Facebook to generate more business and maybe it does but frankly I am going to eat at a restaurant because they have good food and good service.  I go to certain stores because their selection and prices are right.  I'm not going to join their Fan Page on Facebook--that doesn't matter to me.  I know because of the business I am in that it is getting harder and harder to reach and motivate the consumer but the latest greatest isn't always effective.  Like the internet it isn't going away but most businesses need to focus on their product first.

Sisters

There are many of my relatives that have died and gone to heaven so I would like to continue remembering.  I know that you are able to learn a little about me as well as your own memories that might be recalled from these postings.  When we were little we had another sister, her name was Jeanette.  Annette and Jeanette were only two years apart in age and inseperable.  We were together all of the time and we often wore matching outfits.  Although we weren't twins it was almost like we were for we sometimes filled in the blanks in each of our conversations.  Mom tells a story of the two of us watching our Dad work on his truck, I can't remember who started the conversation but it went like this, Girl one,"Daddy is so handsome."   Girl two, "Uh huh."  I can vaguely remember the glances and giggles of two little girls who created our own games and clues, playing in our sandbox or running across the street to visit Mr and Mrs Drum. 

When Jeanette was five and I was seven, there was something wrong with her eye and our Mom took her to the doctor.  A simple malady resulted in a diagnosis of leukemia.  We lived in a small town, with no stop lights, no fast food and no hospital.  For two years, our Mom and Dad took Jeanette to many doctor appointments, many hospital stays.  She endured chemotherapy, painful spinal taps and seperation from each other as I had to stay home with Grandma and Granpa to go to school.  The chemotherapy made her puffy and she lost her beautiful black hair.  She hated wearing the wigs and we really hated being apart form each other.  I look at pictues of each other, my sandy blonde hair and her dark hair and I can see the twinkle in her eye.  She really was a little angel. 

Jeanette was in the hospital and my Uncle Jim was going to take me to see her in the hospital.  I was sleeping on the couch at Grandma's house and when I woke up I heard the adults crying in the kitchen.  I knew then that she was gone and that I would never see her again.  All of the social activity that goes with the death of a relative and the funeral seemed so surreal to me.  I could not cry at the church, I could not cry at her grave, I was numb.  I remember Father Kennedy, Jeanette loved him so much.  I remember him playing his guitar and singing "How Great Thou Art."  I'm still so sad that I couldn't tell her good-bye.  I still miss her. 

I can not imagine the pain and devastation my Mom and Dad felt during her illness and after her death.   Many many years later, my Dad told us that their marriage almost did not survive the tragedy.  Today I can't imagine them being apart but Dad said that they stuck it out for us kids.  Sometimes I wonder why God takes young children or young adults from this world.  Unfullfilled dreams and kind souls who leave their parents, brothers, sisters and all of their families.  After they leave it always seems like something is missing.  It has been many years and I can still see the pain in my Mom's eyes.  When Jeanette died, Laurie was a baby and we are as close as Jeanette and I were.  I tell her all of my secrets.  We love and protect each other and our own.  I can only imagine how much fun the three of us would have had if Jeanette were still here.  Sisters are so special, I am so glad that Jeanette was a part of my life, even if it was for a short time.  I still miss her and I always will.

Dias de los Muertos

Yesterday we went to Pueblo to watch my neices perform for Dia de los Muertos.   I was VERY impressed by the fact that they could dance with a REAL candle on their heads.  Dia de los Muertos is a three day Mexican holiday to celebrate and honor our loved ones that have passed away.   The best way to honor deceased loved ones is by remembering them.  In remembering them, we honor them.  Today, in my blog, I would like to honor my maternal grandfather, George Galvan. 

My grandfather died when I was nine years old so my memory of him is the sketchy memory of a child who lost two loved ones within a few short months.   My cousins, brothers and sisters did not get to know him like I did for they were very young when he died and that was truely a tragedy as he loved his children and he loved and  indulged his grandchildren.  My Grandpa Galvan fought in World War II and one of my favorite pictures of him is in his uniform in a gold regal frame.  He looked very handsome and it made me very proud knowing that he fought for our country.

We basically grew up on "the hill" which is Grandpa and Grandma Galvan's home as well as Grandma Tina and Grandpa Frank's who were across the street and a few feet down the hill.  I remember my Dad calling it "the hill".  We were there most of the time with our cousins who were like brothers and sisters as we were together all of the time.  My Dad felt that I was spoiled rotten by the grandparents and the aunts and uncles and I probably was as the oldest grandchild on my Mom's side.  I remember loving Grandpa Galvan VERY much.  He was a hard worker and he  was very jovial.  He had a great smile but if he got mad--watch out!  I remember him spanking me once and I was very unhappy with him--he actually apologized but I wouldn't forgive him.  When he died, I felt very guilty about that.   He was very religious and went to church every Friday for the Rosary and on Sunday and I always went with him.

Grandpa liked to go hunting and he would hunt for rabbits and Grandma would cook them.  It was pretty good.  Sometimes after work, he would go to the bar in town to have some drinks with his buddies and Grandma would read him the riot act.  He would smile and kiss her but that didn't work--Little Rita had a temper. 

The day he died, he was going to take me to Walsenburg to buy some new shoes for Easter.  For some reason, I had the feeling that he wouldn't buy me those shoes although he had never let me down.  My Uncle George came to get me out of school early because Grandpa had died that day.  He was operating a grator on a steep road, it tipped over and trapped him underneath and he wasn't found until it was too late.  At Grandpa's funeral I saw my Dad cry for the very first time.  I remember seeing Grandpa in the casket and while it looked like him, it didn't feel like it was really him because he wasn't smiling at me and I knew then why my stoic Father was crying.  He was a good man and God took him too soon but while he was alive he made a difference in my life and I still miss him.    I wish my cousins, brothers and sister could have had the time with him that I did and I know that he is one of my guardian angels watching over me and smiling down at me.  I love you Grandpa. 

Politics

I had a stimulating conversation with a man today concerning politics.  He has worked most of his life with politicians and now on a very important issue for our safety.  He professed to be a staunch Democrat while I have always professed to be a Republican.  It occured to me while we were talking that there needs to be a Middle of the Road party for the conservative Democrats and Liberal Republicans.  It sounds like an oxymoron, I know, bear with me and I will explain.  When someone states that they are a Republican we assume that we do not care about the the rights of others, we don't believe in helping others with less than ourselves and we do not believe in abortion.  When I think of a Democrat, I think of someone that believes in making the United States a socialistic country, that the rich should take care of the poor and the government knows how to take care of us better than we know how to take care of ourselves.  I suspect that the "Tea Party" is attempting to be the middle but I don't really know, I stopped listening to them when Sarah Palin became their mouth piece--not a fan.  I believe that most Americans would love for our country to get back to our roots and our government needs to accomplish the following:

1.  Job creation by making it feasible for companies to be profitable while creating those jobs in the United States.  Federal funding does not create viable long term positions and there is so much beauracracy I wonder if it really makes a difference where it needs to--sell the American dream to American companies and make them want to support our country.

2.  Worry about the issues that should be political issues not the ones that are moral issues.  In my opinion, abortion should not be a political issue it is a moral issue!

3.  Offer programs that allow people to get back on their feet do not create programs that make it more worthwhile to sit at home than to be a productive member of society.

4.  STOP protecting and enabling criminals.  If they are habitual, they will not change and do not let them out to harm more people.  Pedophiles should be chemically castrated--I'm sorry they are evil and we continue to let them harm children.

5.  All humans are created equal--whether they are homosexual, of different religion, or from another country--please remember that, treat them that way and respect them.

6.  Strive to promote democracy with all nations but do not impose our values and beliefs on them.

7.  When you decide that we need to write a big check to fund a program, a country or a cause--pretend that YOU are writing the check out of your own personal inheritance or hard earned checking account and I bet most of the programs will go away.

8.  Sometimes the most important part of change is education.  Health care starts at home and we pay for health insurance for risk management.  You can't buy health insurance when you are sick--you have to buy it when you are healthy and there needs to be some viable proof that you will stay that way.   People will still do things that they know will make them ill--why is it our responsiblity or the medical communities responsibility to take on the burden of their health care if they didn't plan for emergencies or try to take care of themselves? We need to regulate the pharmaceutical companies and health litigation to bring things back to an affordable level.  Doctors are human and humans make mistakes--we've become so sue happy that the burden of the litigation insurance makes health care unaffordable and once again that's another blog topic. 

I watch many politicians and they seem so plastic that I wonder if they remember what it's like to be a regular person but that's an entirely different blog.  Vote for the person that you think believes in the same things you believe in.  Don't be swayed by all of this political advertising.  Don't be swayed by the marketing machines and charisma.  Take some time, consider the truth and please exercise your right to vote.

Love and Marriage

So, today is our 8 year anniversary--one year past the seven year itch--so I thought I would write a blog about what I've learned.   NOTHING.....just kidding.  So, sticking with a theme, 8 important lessons in 8 years of marriage:

1.  Don't marry too young.  When we are young, we aren't that great at choosing because we are enamored by cars, sweet talk and many other things that don't matter.
2.  A sense of humor is VERY important.  Darrell makes me laugh several times every day and that's one of the reasons I fell in love with him.
3.  Age is just a state of mind.  I am 91/2 years older than Darrell and there are lots of times when he is more mature than me--I'm not afraid to say it.  I may not be young but I act and look it and that's what matters.  (As long as both people are at least 18 years old--don't get any ideas.)
4.  Remember that when you marry a person, you also marry their family and their baggage.  Luckily, I love Darrell's family and he loves and tolerates mine.  Both families are very different, but we love what our in-laws have to offer.  So many people get married without considering that the spouses family will be as much a part of your life as your spouse will be.  If there are problems with the in-laws before the marriage, there will be problems after the marriage.
5.  Talk about children before you get married preferrably before you get pregnant.  Darrell and I both decided that we wanted children only if we didn't have to go through any treatments to have children.  Now that I know what hormones do to me, that was a good call.  We also knew that we needed to start trying immediately after getting married and God blessed us with pregnancy two months after our wedding.  (Do the math--ha ha)
6.  If you want children make sure he is good Dad material.  It's hard being a parent and most of our disagreements are about Blake but we both love him more than anything and we only want the best for him.    Being a parent also means being present in their lives as much as possible. 
7.  Everything ebbs and flows.
8.  Have seperate television sets but watch your favorite shows together. 
There you go--I'm not a perfect married person and it's harder than I thought it would be but it's so worth it.  I love you Darrell--thank you for asking me to be your wife.

It's about time

It's been a long time since I was inspired to write and my latest inspriration--the woman who wrote about her sexual encounters with Duke Lacrosse players.  First of all, I can't beleive this was national news--REALLY!  Don't we have more important things to spend valuable news time on?  Secondly, I say--It's about time and good for her.  Men have been putting the proverbial notches on their belts talking and laughing about their sexual exploits with women, they have had lists of the good and bad, they have had the committed relationship and a girl on the side.  Newsflash-- I know it's shocking but sometimes women are just in it for the sex--they aren't always looking for a relationship.  Good for her and I love it that she turned the table on them.  By the way, for the record, I really hate the expression, "Why buy the cow when you can get the milk for free." when talking about couples who are living together.  Guess what?  Maybe the cow doesn't want to be bought or in this case be married.  Newsflash--women don't need to be taken care of anymore and marriage usually means that both the husband and wife work and the wife still has to do everything around the house.  (For the record--I am not one of those women.)    I feel bad for the guy who was ranked 10th and I'm sure it's not fun to have something like that circulated then having it make national news but I love it that she did it. 

Helping Hands

We watched The Blind Side again last night and today I was downtown getting some coffee and I witnessed the toy run.  I was very amused my all the tough biker dudes decked out in leather holding cute stuffed animals and toys for needy children.   There were motorcylcles everywhere and a long line around the block waiting to get to Cowboy's to donate their toy.   I'm amazed by the woman who took in a total stranger into her home, made him a part of her family and gave him a stable environement so he could get an education and become a pro football player.  I don't know many people who would do something like that for a person in need.  The bikers today who take a day our of their lives to gather toys for children who other wise would not receive one.  There are so many stories of people who give to others, who organize causes and who work really hard to make a difference in someone else's life.  I applaud those people and I know when we work really hard to help soldiers, families who are dealing with cancer or for single mothers who have had some tough times that we feel blessed to be able to do that through our radio stations.  Sometimes we meet the people we are helping and sometimes we do not but I sometimes try to visualize that we are making someone's life easier.  So, if you are in the position to help and you know someone who needs help please step up, you might be the one ray of hope that helps them get through another day.  It doesn't have to be something as drastic as inviting someone into your home--it could be a toy, a donation or some spare change.

Close to home

I love my job--it is lots of fun, I work with really great people and we have the opportunity to enterain and help people.  Tonight we orchestrated a fund raiser for the Rocky Mountain Pediactric Foundation.  I was talking to the administrator of the foundation and she said that she gets SO many requests for help and she can't assist everyone.  Can you imagine what it's like to be in a fight to save your childs life but you lack the resources?  When I was a little girl, my younger sister died from Leukemia.  She was seven years old and I was nine years old.  I can only imagine the heartbreak my parents experienced and I know the incredible loss we all felt when she left us.  I know that my parents experienced some financial hard ship from that period.  I also know that it was incredibly hard on their marriage and their psyche.  My Dad talks about it every once in a while but my Mom doesn't like to discuss those things.  Today, we understand this cancer and others and the knowledge base is much greater but they still can't save all of the children.  I know that these parents need help and I'm so glad that we were able to help them tonight.  I respect my General Manager a great deal, as he strives to help this foundation and many others.  Thanks to Cowboy's, Tim Metcalf and Sam and Kathy Guadagnoli for helping us to help a very worthy cause. 

There is no such thing as fair...

There is no such thing as fair.  The reason I say this is when someone says, "It isn't fair", they want to make it fair by:
A.  Taking from the haves and giving to the have nots, B.  Taking from the haves so they are also a have not or C. plain just complaining about it.    You know what--THOSE scenarios are not fair.   I will concede that there are plenty of unfair situations in the world.  WHY was Paris Hilton born to rich parents and I was not?  WHY can some women eat anything, not exercise and not gain weight?  WHY does my sister have better hair than I do?  Just kidding, those are shallow not fairs.  There are some major not fairs in the world but if it isn't fair you need to ask yourself, "What can I do to fix it without taking from the haves?"  For example, it wasn't fair that men could vote but women could not.  So the women, gained supporters and marched for their cause and got that changed so they could vote too.  The men did not have to give up their right to vote so the women could vote and both sexes did not lose the right to vote because if both can't have the right, no one will.  Don't scoff at this example--most of the time when someone complains about fairness that seems to be the solution.  "If I can't do that--you can't either."  In other situations there are lots of things that aren't fair but you can't change it so why complain about it.  If a referee makes a bad call in a game and your team loses--it's not fair BUT it is now in the past and it will not change the outcome.  We can make rules and we have instant replay but sometimes that isn't enough.  When our nieces say, "That's not fair.", our response is "Life's not fair."  and it isn't so you see, there is no such thing as fair. 

Ri-DONKulous

So, Katy Perry made this really cute video with Elmo of Sesame Street to her song Hot and Cold.  (Not sure the title is correct--not my strong suit.)  It was posted on You Tube before it aired on Sesame Street but Sesame Street got so many complaints, they pulled it from You Tube and will not air it.  The complaint was that her dress was too skimpy.  It was short and apparently they did not think that it covered enough on top.  Now, Katy Perry is not a double D kind of gal and she has cute little legs.  The video was not sexual at ALL--it was very cute.  This goes in my category of sometimes the people who complain and I'm not entirely sure who they are:  A. Have too much time on their hands and B. Often go overboard.  While I do think that teenager's dress has a lot to be desired, I question the "complainers" judgement.  They are OK with their daughters idolizing any character Disney creates because Disney is wholesome, yet the minute, those "creations" leave the Disney fold they become not-so desireable role models---Miley Cyrus, Brittney Spears and Christina Aguilara come to mind first.  Out of those three the only one I truely believe has talent is Christina and none of them are considered wholesome at this point.  Guess what?  After they leave Disney our children still idolize them.  At least with Katy Perry, what you see is what you get and honestly, she is refreshing.  Instead of sheltering our children from this entertainment maybe we should teach them WHO they should look up to and WHO they should emulate in their life.  Then maybe, they will choose friends that will not influence them in negative ways.  Maybe then, they will wait to have a sexual encounter.  Maybe then, they will know when the line is crossed.  They will not learn by sheltering, they only learn because they are taught how to make good choices on their own. 

The Yellow Brick Road

I've always been a Wizard of Oz fan.  My sister Jeanette and I would watch it on TV every year even though we were terrified by the Wicked Witch and the flying monkeys.  I love the Wizard of Oz SO much I've become a collector of most things Wizard of Oz.  The Wizard of Oz  tells us that we have everything we need in our lives to make us happy whether it's a heart, your head, courage or home.  So, why are so many of us always searching for something to make us happy?  I've been through those moments so many times in my life and I'm sure you have as well.  At times, I will be watching a movie with my son or going on a walk with him and I always thank God for the incredible gift he has given me.  I truely believe that my son is my yellow brick road.  He has helped me to realize how incredibly lucky I am in so many areas of my life.  I wonder about the people that feel so devastated that they actually have the courage or lack thereof to take their own lives.  I pray that anyone that can consider the fact that ending their life might be easier can realize that you have everything you need to be happy.  Life is a journey and sometimes the road is happy and sometimes it's scary but when you realize that you have everything you need, the black and white moments in your life will become colorful.  Hang in there for you, for the gifts God has given you and for the people that love you.  Rest in Peace Kenny McKinley--I can't imagine the pain and devastation you felt yesterday.  Many broken hearts today.

Don't Ask Don't Tell

We were talking about "policies" the other night and I said it's basically a "Don't Ask Don't Tell"  policy.  Come to think of it, this is my general policy in life.  First of all, I believe that you shouldn't ask a question if you don't want to hear the real answer because I will probably give it to you.  For instance, if you ask someone, "Do you like me?", you probably already know the answer thus the need to ask it.  And most people would lie and say yes so why did you ask in the first place.   This also goes along with the saying, "What you don't know won't hurt you."  Yes, sometimes it's worse knowing. 

"Don't Tell"  Why do people feel the need to tell complete strangers or acquaintances all of their deep dark secrets?  I tell most people very little about myself.  Yes, it's hard to get to know me but what's so bad about that?  I am actually pretty shy with people I don't know very well and some people think I'm "stuck up" but it's actually my shyness that makes me seem that way. 

I know that this philosophy is associated with homosexuals in the military and I'm sure that's a difficult position to be in but in most other areas fo life--it's a good philosophy to live by.  Remember Don't Ask if it's something you really don't want to know.  And Don't Tell--keep that stuff to yourself.

Stop the Insanity

I have been accused by my Uncles of being a feminist because I refuse to cook, clean and "take care"of my man.  He can take care of himself, just like I can take care of myself.  I also believe that women should be offered the same opportunities and pay structure as men.  I was one of the first female sales managers in our company and one of my first jobs was in a male-dominated industry however, at some point, our need AND right to be treated the same as men leads to ridiculous situations.  I was watching the interview of the sports reporter who complained about cat calls by the Jets in their locker room.  It's true that a woman, showing a lot of cleavage can report on football as effectively as the men with hair that doesn't move but I don't believe it's appropriate for those women to be in the locker room after the game just as it would not be appropriate for a male to be in the women's locker room.  After the game, they are hot, sweaty and tired--do you really think they want to worry about their state of dress or what they say because someone might complain?  Personally, I would be VERY uncomfortable in that situation because it is an imposition.  To be fair we shouldn't allow the women in the locker room so let's ban the male reporters too.  The locker room interviews are over-rated any way.  They never say anything earth shattering and the interview will not change the result of the game. She should not have been subjected to that situation but she also kind of knew what she was getting into.  Some men don't know when they have crossed the line and some men do but women either feel they can't confront or it's not in their DNA--I get that but in this situation I think that sports reporters (Men and Women) can do their jobs effectively without being in the locker room so WHY subject the players and the reporters to these situations? So, the networks and the NFL need to stop the insanity and only let team personnel in the locker room.  Give the players some space and let's prevent any future situations.

Times have changed!

I know I'm aging myself when I talk about these things but school is SO different.  We have to be so concerned with being politically correct and making sure that we don't get sued that the smallest incident is completely blown out of proportion.    Some parents of a First Grader told me that the kids can't play "Star Wars" on the playground because it might offend someone.  OMG!  When I was in school, if we got in trouble and it was bad enough we were spanked with a board and I'm not making that up.  These days parents are judged severely if they spank their own children and that's an entirely different issue.    My son's friend gave him a toy then asked for it back and I said, "Don't be an Indian giver."  I immediately felt bad because I don't think it's "politically correct to say that anymore.  Honestly, I'm way OVER the high sensitivity and the constant political correctness.  The only people that worry about this stuff are probably the people that don't need to worry about it.  Do you think that someone who is prejudiced worries about hurting someone's feelings?  They might worry about what other people think about them, but I doubt it.  Most of the time, I would rather see everyone at face value rather than the pretentious need to be politically correct.  While, I am not condoning the return of spankings in school or other wise I am done with the over-reactions to every little thing.    Relax people--it's not that big of a deal. 

Nothing could prepare me...

Nothing could prepare me for the moment I realized a new life was growing inside of me.
Nothing could prepare me for the changes my body would go through.
Nothing could prepare me for the sheer terror during the amnio when you realize everything that could go wrong. (Especially at my age.)
Nothing could prepare me for the moment when I held our baby boy in my arms.
Nothing could prepare me for night after night of no sleep.
Nothing could prepare me for the moment when I realized what an incredible Father Darrell is.
Nothing could prepare me for the intense love I feel for my son.
Nothing could prepare me for how fast time goes by.
Nothing could prepare me for what the future will hold.

Dress codes for teenagers

I'm always amazed at the state of dress and undress I see on teenagers.  Here are some of the fashions I have seen lately:
pajamas, short shorts, short skirts, provocative t-shirts, tight jeans on chubby girls and LOTS of make-up.  I know that they like to make a statement and look at clothing as a way to fit in or to stand out but I'm amazed at the lengths they will go.  Personally, if we would have tried to leave our house looking like that our Dad would have said, "Your not going anywhere in that.  Go back and change."  We knew if we argued, slammed doors or gave attitude we would be staying home for the night and we didn't want that.  Not only that, I was embarrassed to show too much cleavage or to show my chubby thighs.  I had to convince my Dad that it was OK for my sister to wear a strapless dress to prom!  I can understand when the Mothers dress like their daughters--what else can you expect?  Honestly, if we want our teenagers to wait until they have sex, we need to censor the clothing.   Is it that hard to say, you're not leaving the house in a dress that short or in a t-shirt that says that?  I don't think they should dress like they are Amish but some decorum is needed. 

Smoking

I am not a smoker and never have been.  Based on all of our knowledge on the effects smoking has on your body why do people continue to smoke?  The smokers at work do seem to have a smoking bond.  They also get more breaks then the rest of us do.  I wonder what they do when they have those days when you barely have time to pee.  Do they have to choose between going to the bathroom or peeing?  When it gets really cold during the winter, they have to bundle up every time they go outside for their smoking break but they still go out there.    It's also an expensive habit--cigarettes aren't cheap.   The tobacco companies are incredible marketers and excellent at creating a product people get hooked on.  I wonder kind of feeling smoking creates--why they like it so much.  HMMMMMMMM>

Becoming a parent

You have to take 4 years of classes and get passing grades to get your high school diploma.  If you go to college, you are also expected to pass tests.  When you get your driver's license you have to pass a written test and demonstrate to someone that you can actually drive the car.  Call me crazy but it doesn't make sense to me that we are allowed to become parents without proving that we are capable in any way.  Don't get me wrong, I don't believe that the government or any other entity should be involved in this very important process.  However, becoming  a parent is THE biggest decision you will make in your life.  You are creating another life and you are responsible for shaping that life for the rest of your life yet SO many people enter parenthood with absolutely no thought.   Grandparents are raising their grandchildren because their children can't put their children's needs before their own.  So many, have children too young and can not delay their parties, trips or other escapades to take the time to dedicate to their kids.  It makes me so sad to see emotionally or physically neglected children.    It makes me mad when people don't stop to consider the responsibility they have undertaken when they create that life.  I don't mean becoming so selfless that you don't take care of yourself, we need balance to be good parents.    Being a parent is a serious responsiblity and it seems to be that there should be more forethought.  I almost think that chastity belts should be required until each woman can prove that they will be responsible for birth control or can prove that they are ready to be a Mother.  Father's have a huge responsibility as well but let's face it--they can't create children without our help and the woman is ulimatley responsible if he isn't there for her.  The baby showers and pregnancy are fun and it's great to feel that special.  Babies are SO adoreable, they are soft and they smell good but they also keep you up all night, they poop and they projectile vomit sometimes.   Think beyond the first few years as you will be a parent for life.  There aren't tests so maybe you should adopt a fish then a cat or a dog and if you can take care of them without any major issues MAYBE you are ready. 

What will they deep fry next?

I went to the Colorado State Fair today to watch my beautiful nieces perform on the good old Pepsi stage.  (I think that thing has been there forever.)  While there, my best friend's son, Tyler, ate deep fried Oreos.  He said they were delicious but I was too afraid to try them.  Many years ago at the fair I convinced my husband to try the deep fried Snickers and soon after that he threw up after going on one of those upside down rides.  My husband never throws up.  I'm a huge fan of most fried foods.  I love fried ice cream.  I thoroughly enjoyed the fried pickles.   I also think that almost everything tastes better when it's fried.  It's not very good for the waistline but it sure tastes good when you are eating it.  An Oreo by itself tastes really good and a Snickers by itself is heavenly.  Why do we have to coat it in batter and drench it in oil by deep fat frying it to improve the flavor.  This also proves that when we go to the fair, we will eat almost anything.

Does money buy happiness?

If someone were to ask if money buys happiness everyone's response would be, "Hell yes!"  If I won the lottery, I wouldn't give the money back but consider this--money can't buy health, it can't buy love (they'll pretend to love you but do they really) and it can't buy peace of mind.  Remember, the contractor in Arkansas (or somewhere like that) that won the lottery twice?  His granddaughter became a drug addict and died from an overdose.  If he could give all the money back to get his granddaughter back, he would but it's not possible.  Look at the "rich" kids, actors, actresses and famous people who are incurable drug addicts.  If money really bought happiness they wouldn't need the drugs.    Let's face it, good health is truely priceless.   Have you seen the story about the Copper heiress?  She died alone in seclusion.  She had everything money could buy but it didn't buy love or peace of mind.   I thought of this today, listening to the writer for People talking about her Elin Wood article.  Of course, the rumours are swirling concerning the divorce settlement, Elin would not discuss this with the reporter but it's rumoured to be $100 million.  Elin's only response to the settlement, something to the effect of money doesn't buy happiness, it will not put our family back together and ultimately, it won't remove the pain and embarrassment she went through.  She is a very classy lady, who appears to be doing what is right for her children and living close to their Father so both of them can be in their lives.  There's a concept--doing what's best for the children!  So many stories in this one very public drama.  I know it's hard to be without money and there are many things that money can fix and many things that money can make easier but seriously, it can't buy happiness. 

I've never used Algebra

It's been many many years since I struggled through Algebra, Science and History classes but I remember asking if we would ever use that information again.  Honestly, the answer is no.  I enjoyed and excelled at English and writing then I started a career in radio where we write to read.  We also write for pronunciation so we don't necessarily have to spell either.  Plus, we have spell check on our computers and phones to prevent a perception of illiteracy.  The MOST valuable class I took in high school was Mrs. Young's typing class--no pecking at the key board for me.  Honestly, when we were in high school, most of us didn't know what we wanted to be when we grew up and most of that learning was a "just in case" I change my mind and decide to be a Doctor.  My almost seven year old son says he wants to be a scientist, more specifically an "evil" scientist.  I hope there is a market for that some day.  My point is this, wouldn't it be cool if there could be a career predicter for high schoolers to help them avoid the torture of those classes and knowledge that they really won't need in the future?  That would relieve a lot of stress for students, parents and teachers.  

"Reality' shows

I'm almost ashamed to admit it but I'm addicted to reality shows.  I was a Real World junkie, then The Hills and now Jersey Shore.  I also watch The Real Houswives of New York City although this year was the last season for me and The Real Houswives of the O.C.  Ditto on the last year of that one too.  First of all, the reality shows aren't real--they have writers!  Real life doesn't come with a script.  Second, the producers have to create conflict to make it interesting so they add new characters, they create rumours and they feed the insecurities of the "actors".  I'm watching Jersey Shore and I'm thinking, "Wow!  These kids get paid to get drunk and hook up."    Their drunken antics of nights they can't remember are then broadcast for the whole world to see.  I would have been mortified if my parents saw some of my drunken antics.  They heard about them eventually but they didn't see it, that's a whole different reality.  Their boyfriends and girlfriends also get to witness the crawling into bed with a roommate--there's no covering up that one!  Then who knows what kind of unused footage they will hit you with at the reunion show.  Personally, I wouldn't want to go through that.  Our minds can actually soften how stupid we were and we don't have to watch the re-runs with our children.  These reality shows are creating a whole new type of celebrity.  They don't really have a talent but everyone knows who they are and we read about them in People magazine.  It makes me sad when a nice young girl like Heidi (what the hell is her last name) became another person in both body and mind because of that douche bag Spencer.  Personally, I love Snookie, she is who she is and she doesn't care.  Through the process of being herself, she's also one of the highest paid stars on the show.  Well , I guess the moral of the story  is, as most of our year books have said, "Stay the way you are and keep smiling" but don't do it on T.V. 

Hormones--you have no idea!

Unless you are plagued with hormonal swings, you can not fathom what I'm about to talk about.  Approximately two to four days per month, I am absolutely unbearable to live with--ask my husband.  I can swing from extremely angry, to totally irrational to a crying baby.  God bless him for being so patient with me.  I'm not a doctor but I think one of the primary ways to deal with hormonal fluctations is to take hormones which I can not do.  When I was pondering my latest mood swing, it made me think of teenagers--they are a ball of raging hormones--no wonder we don't understand them.  No wonder they don't make rational decisions.  It's hard to think back that far because I'm older and I have memory issues but I'm sure most of my teenage "blonde" moments were due to hormones.   I do remember some screaming fits and storming out of the house.  Now when I have my "mood swings" , I want to curl up in my room with a heating pad, hot tea, darkness and silence until I can react in a rational manner.  And  to think, we send teenagers out in the real world all the time.  I know they do some crazy and seemingly stupid stuff but to some degree, they can't help it and sometimes they just have to learn from their mistakes.    This isn't an excuse but believe me, if you haven't been through it--you have no idea.  If my husband decides to start a blog--I'm in big trouble.   

King Tut's Jewelry

So, the earrings that King Tut wore weren't the small posts with backs like we wear now.  They were huge screws with adornments on both sides.  They looked heavy and I'm sure they majorly stretched out the ear lobes.  Those were probably the earliest guage devices.  I've never understood why people want to stretch out their ear lobes especially with the really big circles.  Once they are stretched out and won't stretch back so if you decide you don't like them anymore, what do you do?  AND if they have children what if the baby grabs one of those babies and won't let go?  Ouch!  I know, my mind takes some unexpected turns but that's why you like to read these.  Well, I don't think I have anything else to talk about when it comes to King Tut.

Tomorrow--hormones, you have NO idea. 

King Tut and Make-up

As you know, the Pharoahs were buried with all of their worldly possessions, to have them in the after life.  They had miniature boats which would magically expand when they needed them.  They clothes and shoes and they took extra care to make sure that important body parts could not be destoryed.  King Tut was also buried with his cosmetics.  I can totally understand that because I love make up!  It's so fun--you can create different looks with make up.  I also believe that ALL women should wear make-up.  Make-up is designed to enhance our features and hide flaws.  Some women need a small amount of make-up and they look great.  Other women need LOTS of make-up.  In fact, I've had friends that I did not recognize without make up.  You can definitely wear too much make up--it's a less is more kind of thing.   ANY make up counter will be happy give you a make over.  You can tell them that you need a quick routine or you can tell them that you want a whole new look.  It takes some time and some practice but everyone I know looks better with make-up.    King Tut was buried with his make-up for goodness sake--that's how important it was to him.    Yes, these are the things I think about when I'm looking at artifacts and such. 

King Tut

We went to the King Tut exhibit yesterday and I wasn't sure what to expect.   My baby brother wasn't impressed and we almost didn't go but I'm glad we did.  The time of the Pharoahs in Egypt is very intriguing.  The clothes, jewelry and make-up were fabulous.  The fact that they were buried with all of their worldly possessions fascinating.  Their beliefs and superstitiouns regarding the after life--ground breaking.  The pyramids and statues they built were exquisite.  It made me want to watchthe 10 Commandments and it's not even Easter.   I was looking at one of the King Tut statues thinking to myself, "He looks very familiar."  Then I realized, Michael Jackson was trying to look like King Tut!  The nose, the make up, the slight build---I'm totally serious about this.  Do a comparison and you will see.

My blog is short and sweet--tell your friends!  Tomorrow King Tut and make up.

Drive-in Movies

Man!  When I wrote my blog about Pueblo I forgot one of the BEST things about Pueblo--they have a Drive-in Movie Theatre.  It has three screens and a snack stand with the BEST food.  (Ask my sister.)  When I was growing up there was a Drive-in theatre on the outskirts of Walsenburg.  It was a popular date night event.  I remember getting SO nervous about the whole kissing and making out scenario.  If you didn't really want to kiss through the whole movie, you had to have some moves to ward off the unwanted advances.  Just like Danny and Sandy in Grease.  LOL!  I love that movie.  On the other hand, with the right guy, it got very steamy. You wouldn't know it now but I was very naive in high school.  I adjusted very quickly in college. I'm sure I will blog about that.   I remember walking by cars with foggy windows and giggling.  By the way, we are from a very small town and you knew who it was by the car.  BUT I digress.  If you haven't experienced a Drive-in movie you need to check it out.  Pueblo isn't that far away.  Try to avoid a movie that might have a lot of darkly lit scenes--those are hard to see.   You don't have to worry about rude people who bring crying babies to the movies or the ones that have a commentary through the whole thing, unless you have a big mouth in your car.  

Future posts are my King Tut observations.  Thanks for reading--tell your friends.

Why I love Pueblo!

I hear people making fun of Pueblo all the time and this is nothing new.  I think that most people haven't experienced the true essence of Pueblo and fail to recognize how awesome Pueblo really is.  Here are ten reasons that I love Pueblo:

1.  Pueblo is a melting pot of many cultures--Hispanic, Italian, European. 
2.  Pueblo has THE best restaurants.  Forget the chains when you go to Pueblo there are great local restaurants and we have trouble deciding which one to eat at when we go there.
3.  Pueblo has GREAT neighborhood bars where everyone really does know your name AND you can drink all night and only spend $20 bucks.
4. Pueblo is proud of their community and they are willing to invest their hard earned dollars  for growth and improvement. 
5.  Early in my career, I worked in Pueblo for a few years and the people there are locally loyal.  If you want to do business there, you need to live there.  I love that.  I am not impressed when people come here from Denver to work in our community and continue to commute from Denver.  Commit to live in the community especially in an industry whose cornerstone is community involvement.
6.  There are great boutique stores in Pueblo and I have found the selection of unique clothes and housewares are better in Pueblo than most places I've been.
7.  Pueblo peeps are proud of their heritage.
8.  Family ties run deep.
9.  The Colorado State Fair!!
10.  There are really more than 10 things to list--feel free to add!!!

Medicinal Marijuana--really?

Marijuana for medicinal purposes is legal in Colorado.  For the most part, I am a "to each his own person" and while I have chronic lower back and knee pain I am not a card holder.  I think that marijuana should be legal whether it is for chronic pain, pleasure or nausea.  Haven't we learned via the prohibition that you can't prevent a vice by making it illegal?  We should benefit from the jobs and tax base that can be created.  Once again, I am not a marijuana person however, the fact that there are more medical marijuana dispensaries than McDonalds in Colorado Springs amuses me.  I wonder where the Starbuck's ratio currently stands.   I am also a believer in marketing and saw an ad for a medicinal dispensary that advertised Free Joint Fridays and Munchie Mondays--that doesn't sound like something that is meant to cure illness--that's all I'm saying! 

Once again, my facts are not validated and this is ONLY an opinion for those that may or may not be amused by it.  Tomorrow's topic--Why I love Pueblo!

Ta Da

I'm SO excited.  This is my very first blog.  First of all a BIG thank you to Bobby Adan for setting this up for me!  He's anxious to hear my spouting.  So, unlike Miss Gloria, a very special and prolific person who has a flair for the descriptive, I have a blog simply to state my opinion on a variety of matters.  I am tired of my husband tuning me out and sometimes I just need to release the opinion.   The title of my blog is Spouting Geiser which I think is very appropriate. 

The title for tomorrow's blog will be Medical Marijuana is it really Medical?  My disclaimer is that these are not judgments or facts ONLY my opinion and observations.  Yee-ha!

Welcome.

Welcome to Spouting Geiser: The Blog! Stay Tuned...