Ari says:
I am reveling in this moment; not in a "Lafayette Revelers" kind of way (you have to be a true Lexentonian to know that term), but in an exhilarating kind of way. I'm sure I sound daft, but let me assure you that I am mostly sane. Right now, Bart is resting his tired eyes in Oklahoma City, a mere 10 hours away from our homestead. By this time tomorrow night he will have been home for a couple hours. This is only remarkable because he hasn't been home in 7 months, was gone for over 5 months last year, and in our scant 1+ year of marriage we have only, physically, lived together for about 2 and 1/2 months due to his orders and military obligations. Please understand that I do not harbor any ill will towards this circumstance, but am extremely excited that we are about to start a new chapter in our married life. We are embarking on an entire month of living together and a move to a new city. In light of my previous statements, allow me to say that it is about damn time that we get a chance to be husband and wife. We have so much looming on our horizon: new orders, a move to NOLA, new friends, children (not yet, so don't get any ideas), and so many other things (probably many of which as yet undiscovered). Above all, we get a chance to be a couple and this is what is most important to me. I couldn't be more thrilled to have him home. All this being said, I have become quite accustomed to having this apartment to myself (well, myself and Sherlock). In the time since Bart has been gone (both during and post-work days) I have found a routine and a place for myself and my distractions. In honor of this particularly grand night (seeing as I cannot sleep for excitement), I am allowing myself one last evening of relative "singledom": No boys allowed (except Sherlock, of course, who is happily playing with an ice-cube in the bathtub at the moment), greasy food accepted, and an imbibement or two at the ready. This is a night to say a fond farewell to a year of lessons and trials, and certainly one of personal growth. It certainly has been an adventure, but nothing compared to what is in store for us. Please wish us luck.
Monday, September 29, 2008
Sunday, September 28, 2008
News Brief
Ari says:
Wow, who would have thought that life could be such a whirlwind when you're not working? This past week has been one of trials, emotions, errands and preparation. I'm not even sure where to start. On the good side of things, Bart is on his way home even as I type this. He left this morning and should be home early this week. It will certainly be a long drive for him, so I ask for your prayers for safety during his trip. We are both really excited that he's coming home (actually, all three of us are, as I've told Sherlock repeatedly that Daddy is coming soon), but know that we have a lot of packing and preparation for the move ahead of us. We signed our lease this week and will take possession of the house we're renting on November first. We certainly have our work cut out for us. In other news, Beth and Stephen came into town late last night and the three of us, along with Angela had an amazing time hanging out, catching up and just blowing off some steam. We stayed up entirely too late, but it was totally worth it. Thanks for visiting guys! I guess beyond all this, I don't have much to report. As I mentioned, this week has been very emotional. I find myself very contemplative and reflective at the moment. I have a couple very dear friends who are in highly difficult situations right now and I am unsure how to help them. It is hard for me, being a "fixer," to be helpless and standby as someone I love is in pain. All I can do is offer my love and support and let them know that I will always be there for them. However, there is a bright spot in all of this. I know that God can work miracles in any situation, and I know that He has a plan. Whether or not it is what we want, He will do what is right and best in all things. This is an amazing comfort to me to know that everything and all of us are in His hands. Or as Katie would say, "This too shall pass." On a really great note, yesterday was an amazing day of college football. Penn State and Kentucky both won their games and a few more undefeated teams fell to their opponents. How fun that football has started back up and that fall has arrived! I've noticed a few trees starting to change and know that this is going to be a gorgeous season in many different ways. It is certainly a time for change, not only in the weather, but in life as well. Although some of these changes may seem formidable, it is so very exciting to experience what is going on in our lives and all around us.
Wow, who would have thought that life could be such a whirlwind when you're not working? This past week has been one of trials, emotions, errands and preparation. I'm not even sure where to start. On the good side of things, Bart is on his way home even as I type this. He left this morning and should be home early this week. It will certainly be a long drive for him, so I ask for your prayers for safety during his trip. We are both really excited that he's coming home (actually, all three of us are, as I've told Sherlock repeatedly that Daddy is coming soon), but know that we have a lot of packing and preparation for the move ahead of us. We signed our lease this week and will take possession of the house we're renting on November first. We certainly have our work cut out for us. In other news, Beth and Stephen came into town late last night and the three of us, along with Angela had an amazing time hanging out, catching up and just blowing off some steam. We stayed up entirely too late, but it was totally worth it. Thanks for visiting guys! I guess beyond all this, I don't have much to report. As I mentioned, this week has been very emotional. I find myself very contemplative and reflective at the moment. I have a couple very dear friends who are in highly difficult situations right now and I am unsure how to help them. It is hard for me, being a "fixer," to be helpless and standby as someone I love is in pain. All I can do is offer my love and support and let them know that I will always be there for them. However, there is a bright spot in all of this. I know that God can work miracles in any situation, and I know that He has a plan. Whether or not it is what we want, He will do what is right and best in all things. This is an amazing comfort to me to know that everything and all of us are in His hands. Or as Katie would say, "This too shall pass." On a really great note, yesterday was an amazing day of college football. Penn State and Kentucky both won their games and a few more undefeated teams fell to their opponents. How fun that football has started back up and that fall has arrived! I've noticed a few trees starting to change and know that this is going to be a gorgeous season in many different ways. It is certainly a time for change, not only in the weather, but in life as well. Although some of these changes may seem formidable, it is so very exciting to experience what is going on in our lives and all around us.
Monday, September 22, 2008
It's Time For a Change
Ari says:
Hear ye! Hear ye! Come one and come all!! Experience one of the world's forgotten treasures! That's right, Ladies and Gentlemen, I'm talking about that most forgotten of pastimes. The ever extraordinary, the ultimately elusive, the amazingly escaping: personal time.
When was the last time you took a moment for yourself? In my last couple weeks of unemployment and pseudo-solitude, I have found that there was one person that I had readily forgotten. In all my phone calls, birthday cards and emails, I had been left behind. And do you know what I've found? In fear of sounding a bit conceited, I'm a fairly cool person to hang out with. I have allowed myself (and sometimes forced) not to pick up a phone or send an email. I truly have taken the time to remember who I am. In spite of all my faults (and trust me, there are plenty), I have realized that I am fairly witty, humorous, and enjoyable to be around. In fact, I'm not all that bad. I say this only because in recent conversations, I have noticed that my friends and family are not taking the same note of themselves. Now (bragging moment ensuing), I pride myself on those with whom I associate. I have some of the most amazing people in my life, which you already know. They are my lifeblood, my center, and I owe everything to them. Why, then, would they not take care of themselves? This is my question to each and every one of you. When you know you are truly and deeply loved, why wouldn't you take the opportunity to improve upon "you" simply for yourself? You know that there are those who love and support you. Why, on God's Green Earth, wouldn't you take a moment now and then (once a day or week) for yourself? To remember what is important to you, or the things which make you most happy? I only say this because I, in fact, was gone for a long time. I allowed myself to be swept up in something that wasn't nearly as important as I thought it was. Now I am able to see that I am not nearly as effective a wife, daughter or friend as I am than when I truly appreciate and love myself. True to form, though, my loving friends and family were there for me and allowed me to do what I needed to do. Yes, I have a bit of time on my hands, however, I am realizing that time is a precious commodity and must not be wasted on the frivolous. We must remind ourselves what we are working towards and whether or not it furthers our personal agenda (which isn't a bad thing). Do we spend enough time with those that matter or are we focused on getting an extra hour in at work? Do we get in 10 minutes extra at the gym or can we spend a few minutes on the phone with a loved one? What are your priorities? Do you want to change them? I challenge each and every one of you to take a moment for yourself. To find something that makes you happy, for however short an amount of time, if only to enjoy yourself and to find you in the process.
Hear ye! Hear ye! Come one and come all!! Experience one of the world's forgotten treasures! That's right, Ladies and Gentlemen, I'm talking about that most forgotten of pastimes. The ever extraordinary, the ultimately elusive, the amazingly escaping: personal time.
When was the last time you took a moment for yourself? In my last couple weeks of unemployment and pseudo-solitude, I have found that there was one person that I had readily forgotten. In all my phone calls, birthday cards and emails, I had been left behind. And do you know what I've found? In fear of sounding a bit conceited, I'm a fairly cool person to hang out with. I have allowed myself (and sometimes forced) not to pick up a phone or send an email. I truly have taken the time to remember who I am. In spite of all my faults (and trust me, there are plenty), I have realized that I am fairly witty, humorous, and enjoyable to be around. In fact, I'm not all that bad. I say this only because in recent conversations, I have noticed that my friends and family are not taking the same note of themselves. Now (bragging moment ensuing), I pride myself on those with whom I associate. I have some of the most amazing people in my life, which you already know. They are my lifeblood, my center, and I owe everything to them. Why, then, would they not take care of themselves? This is my question to each and every one of you. When you know you are truly and deeply loved, why wouldn't you take the opportunity to improve upon "you" simply for yourself? You know that there are those who love and support you. Why, on God's Green Earth, wouldn't you take a moment now and then (once a day or week) for yourself? To remember what is important to you, or the things which make you most happy? I only say this because I, in fact, was gone for a long time. I allowed myself to be swept up in something that wasn't nearly as important as I thought it was. Now I am able to see that I am not nearly as effective a wife, daughter or friend as I am than when I truly appreciate and love myself. True to form, though, my loving friends and family were there for me and allowed me to do what I needed to do. Yes, I have a bit of time on my hands, however, I am realizing that time is a precious commodity and must not be wasted on the frivolous. We must remind ourselves what we are working towards and whether or not it furthers our personal agenda (which isn't a bad thing). Do we spend enough time with those that matter or are we focused on getting an extra hour in at work? Do we get in 10 minutes extra at the gym or can we spend a few minutes on the phone with a loved one? What are your priorities? Do you want to change them? I challenge each and every one of you to take a moment for yourself. To find something that makes you happy, for however short an amount of time, if only to enjoy yourself and to find you in the process.
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Everything and Nothing
Ari says:
Side Note: I just lost half the blog I was trying to post, but will try again. Here goes!
I feel like so much has happened in the last week, but really don't have too much to tell. How very sad is that? So much time has passed and so many things occurred, but whether any of it is of interest, I guess, will be up to you. Anyway, here goes: Mom came in Tuesday afternoon and we immediately got into our "catch up" mode. It was so great to see her, but we could both instantly tell that out time together would be too short. We had a great couple days together filled with lots of talking, some work for Mom, a bit of wine for both of us, and an all around wonderful time. We did take a little detour Wednesday night and went downtown to babysit for the Namey Family (we didn't watch all three of them, just Kate). Tom and Sallie were in town for a movie premiere and I was eager to see them and spend some time with Kate. She was an absolute joy and Mom and I had a great time looking out the window with her, exploring the hotel, and witnessing the marvel of Kate eating. It was awesome! We were also able to catch up with the elder Nameys and see how precious Sallie is with little Tommy still in her belly. Tom and Sal, it was great seeing you. Keep us up to date on all the baby news! Thursday and Friday seemed to fly by with Mom and all too soon we were heading to the airport. I hated to see her go, but know that we'll get a trip in soon. She'll just have to come see our place in NOLA. Right? Right. After dropping Mom off, I got on the road to Lexington for another farewell of sorts. I realized as I was driving that this was the last time I would be able to jaunt up for a weekend. Soon enough the drive will be well over 10 hours and not so easily managed. Anyway, I got in Friday evening and Katie and I spent a great night outside talking and enjoying the weather. Saturday I met up with Beth for a fun lunch and some mall exploration. I can't believe how much my beloved Fayette Mall has changed. The silly thing seems massive and way too cosmo for Lexington. Oh, the times...they are a-changin'. Beth and I had a great time, and then we were off to get ready for the UK game. Beth, Stephen and Kevin came to pick up Katie, Neil and myself later in the evening. We headed to a place called Friends & Co. (formerly Trumps) and proceeded to have a great night of darts, football and people watching. Where can I get some of those cutoff shorts?! We did all have a minor heart attack at the end of the game when MTSU almost scored a touchdown on the last play, but the football gods smiled on the Wildcats for once and we were able to eek out a victory. The clan was all pretty tired after the game, so we headed to our respective homes and that was it for the evening. Sunday dawned not-so-bring and very windy, so Katie and I settled in for a day of crap tv and Chinese food, which turned out to be the perfect combo for a dreary Sunday. Soon enough, though, I was packing up my bag and saying goodbye to head over to my Dad's house for a final visit with everyone over there. Seanna and Kyleigh were both very excited that Sissy was there, and great commotion ensued. Both were eager to display all their talents at once and show every new toy and accrual since my last visit. I must admit that I'm not used to that much activity, but they are both so sweet and precious that you can't help but love them for it. We had a fun night just talking and catching up, but it was soon bedtime. Monday I got up and piddled around the house before heading to see Seanna at school. I had promised to come in and have lunch with her, so off I went. It was very strange driving near my old high school and seeing all the "kids" walking around. I will say, though, that I was a little nervous going back to school and wasn't sure what to expect. Seanna was so excited that I was there, and quickly introduced me to her friends and hustled me through the lunch line. We dined on "Pizadas" (which seem to be very small Hot Pockets) and mashed potatoes. Could have been worse. Seanna showed me around her classes a little bit, but soon had to return to class, so I headed out to run a couple errands. A couple of them were thwarted, but no harm done and I went back to the house with time to spare. I wanted to rest up a bit, so I turned on the tube and took it easy until everyone returned from work and school respectively. The rest of the evening was spent with dinner, homework, video games and a ballet display or two. Once it was "bedtime" I took my leave and got on the road back to Nashvegas. It was an easy drive and I was home a bit earlier than expected. Again, though, I am a bit sad that this era is coming to an end. I'll just have to be more diligent in my plans and travels. And that, my dear friends, brings us up to the present. On a completely different note, today is Sally's (or "Sally-in-St.-Louis" as I call her) birthday and I want to wish her a wonderful day. She is an amazing mother and a wonderful friend, and no one could ever ask for anyone more loyal to be in their life. Happy Birthday, Sal!! I guess that's all folks. I hope I haven't bored you too much with this epistle. News to come soon on the move, as soon as I have it, that is. Take care!!
Side Note: I just lost half the blog I was trying to post, but will try again. Here goes!
I feel like so much has happened in the last week, but really don't have too much to tell. How very sad is that? So much time has passed and so many things occurred, but whether any of it is of interest, I guess, will be up to you. Anyway, here goes: Mom came in Tuesday afternoon and we immediately got into our "catch up" mode. It was so great to see her, but we could both instantly tell that out time together would be too short. We had a great couple days together filled with lots of talking, some work for Mom, a bit of wine for both of us, and an all around wonderful time. We did take a little detour Wednesday night and went downtown to babysit for the Namey Family (we didn't watch all three of them, just Kate). Tom and Sallie were in town for a movie premiere and I was eager to see them and spend some time with Kate. She was an absolute joy and Mom and I had a great time looking out the window with her, exploring the hotel, and witnessing the marvel of Kate eating. It was awesome! We were also able to catch up with the elder Nameys and see how precious Sallie is with little Tommy still in her belly. Tom and Sal, it was great seeing you. Keep us up to date on all the baby news! Thursday and Friday seemed to fly by with Mom and all too soon we were heading to the airport. I hated to see her go, but know that we'll get a trip in soon. She'll just have to come see our place in NOLA. Right? Right. After dropping Mom off, I got on the road to Lexington for another farewell of sorts. I realized as I was driving that this was the last time I would be able to jaunt up for a weekend. Soon enough the drive will be well over 10 hours and not so easily managed. Anyway, I got in Friday evening and Katie and I spent a great night outside talking and enjoying the weather. Saturday I met up with Beth for a fun lunch and some mall exploration. I can't believe how much my beloved Fayette Mall has changed. The silly thing seems massive and way too cosmo for Lexington. Oh, the times...they are a-changin'. Beth and I had a great time, and then we were off to get ready for the UK game. Beth, Stephen and Kevin came to pick up Katie, Neil and myself later in the evening. We headed to a place called Friends & Co. (formerly Trumps) and proceeded to have a great night of darts, football and people watching. Where can I get some of those cutoff shorts?! We did all have a minor heart attack at the end of the game when MTSU almost scored a touchdown on the last play, but the football gods smiled on the Wildcats for once and we were able to eek out a victory. The clan was all pretty tired after the game, so we headed to our respective homes and that was it for the evening. Sunday dawned not-so-bring and very windy, so Katie and I settled in for a day of crap tv and Chinese food, which turned out to be the perfect combo for a dreary Sunday. Soon enough, though, I was packing up my bag and saying goodbye to head over to my Dad's house for a final visit with everyone over there. Seanna and Kyleigh were both very excited that Sissy was there, and great commotion ensued. Both were eager to display all their talents at once and show every new toy and accrual since my last visit. I must admit that I'm not used to that much activity, but they are both so sweet and precious that you can't help but love them for it. We had a fun night just talking and catching up, but it was soon bedtime. Monday I got up and piddled around the house before heading to see Seanna at school. I had promised to come in and have lunch with her, so off I went. It was very strange driving near my old high school and seeing all the "kids" walking around. I will say, though, that I was a little nervous going back to school and wasn't sure what to expect. Seanna was so excited that I was there, and quickly introduced me to her friends and hustled me through the lunch line. We dined on "Pizadas" (which seem to be very small Hot Pockets) and mashed potatoes. Could have been worse. Seanna showed me around her classes a little bit, but soon had to return to class, so I headed out to run a couple errands. A couple of them were thwarted, but no harm done and I went back to the house with time to spare. I wanted to rest up a bit, so I turned on the tube and took it easy until everyone returned from work and school respectively. The rest of the evening was spent with dinner, homework, video games and a ballet display or two. Once it was "bedtime" I took my leave and got on the road back to Nashvegas. It was an easy drive and I was home a bit earlier than expected. Again, though, I am a bit sad that this era is coming to an end. I'll just have to be more diligent in my plans and travels. And that, my dear friends, brings us up to the present. On a completely different note, today is Sally's (or "Sally-in-St.-Louis" as I call her) birthday and I want to wish her a wonderful day. She is an amazing mother and a wonderful friend, and no one could ever ask for anyone more loyal to be in their life. Happy Birthday, Sal!! I guess that's all folks. I hope I haven't bored you too much with this epistle. News to come soon on the move, as soon as I have it, that is. Take care!!
Monday, September 8, 2008
An Early Thanksgiving
Ari says:
There are times when I sit back and am overcome with emotions. The emotions tend to vary, and I sit and ponder how extreme and powerful they are. For example, I truly love Bart with everything that is in me, but every once in a while something (a thought, a memory, etc) will pop into my head and mentally head-slap me with just how strongly I feel for him. I usually end up crying for a minute and then calling him to tell him just how much I love him. I had a similar experience last night. I was watching a movie and all of the sudden a massive wave of gratitude came over me. I realized just how blessed I really am. Not only do I have a wonderful husband, who I love and adore, but I have a family who would bend over backwards for me if I needed it (especially my Mom, who I've told you about), two precious little sisters, amazing friends who I would not be able to survive without, a roof over my head and the ability to live a life that I love. How could I ever ask for more or be upset with my current situation? I actually paused my movie and thought long and hard about these things and how I am so very apt to take all these things for granted. It also made me want to thank each of those individuals in my life. You all know who you are and you know how I feel about you. Please know how special each of you are to me. Anyway, the reason I wanted to share this was because it is an amazing feeling. I wanted to pass this on to you in the hopes that it could spread and give you the same joy and appreciation that it has given me. So, what are you thankful for?
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