THE OFFICE
Yesterday was officially my last day of working as a pediatrician at Alamo Heights Pediatrics, a place I have grown to love over the past three years. I received lots of hugs and kisses, flowers from my colleagues, a crystal butterfly from Kaitlyn, potpourri and a candle, and (my personal favorite) a drawing of a bouquet of hearts from a sweet boy named Joey. I didn't leave until 7:30 pm partly because we had tons of paperwork, and partly because it was difficult to make myself leave. For additional insight - meet the office:
Lindsay (Pediatrcian, owner and general manager): fabulous physician, expert in cardiology, passionate about her patients, witty, accomplished, insightful, great colleague.
Leah (Pediatrician): A bundle of energy, leader and public servant, very thoughtful, well-known in the community as expert physician for special needs children, juggler of family, home and career.
Beth (Medical assistant): Constant as the North Star, always on time, dependable, down-to-earth, predictable, non-complainer, very tactful, a "get the job done" kind of person.
Becky (Nurse): A fireball, initiator, fast-paced, can be a little bossy (to her advantage), a "go the extra mile" type person, motherly, confident, upbeat and opinionated.
Lindsay (Medical assistant): Great worker, easy-going, can be bold when the occasion demands, adaptable, able to take a stand, dependable, fun to work with.
Letty (Collections): Eternally happy and smiling, the first person you want to see in the morning, proud mom to five girls, aggressive about collections - in a very nice way, a "make it work" type person, knowledgable.
Lucy (Collections): A "no nonsense" gal, smart as a whip, very competent, a little guarded, down-to-earth, honest, tells it like it is.
Christine (front desk): Quiet and reserved, very polite and professional, good work ethic, pleasant.
My cousin once told me the hallmark of a great relationship is that you can look back and realize you're a better person for having known them. I can honestly say I'm a better person for having worked with these ladies. Thanks for a great three years!
Thursday, May 31, 2007
Sunday, May 27, 2007
MEN AND THEIR TOYS
Have you ever noticed that men LOVE electronics? OK, that's not a big surprise to anyone. But have you noticed that it's easier to get your man to the store if the trip has something to do with electronics?
Two recent conversations related to me by my friend:
Conversation #1
Dorothy: Craig, could we go to the mall? I need to get a purse.
Craig: I thought you had a purse.
Conversation #2 a few days later while watching TV
Dorothy: Is this picture a little fuzzy?
Craig: You're right. I think I need to get you a new television - there are some plasma screens on sale. I'll get the car.
Instead of getting frustrated about our differences, take advantage. If you want your husband/boyfriend to remember your birthday, mother's day, valentines, anniversary - suggest electronics - ipod, blackberry, computer, television, palm pilot, etc. For my husband it's not the big TV's he wants. He loves little business trinkets, ipods, but most of all CAMERAS. In fact, I got a new one for my birthday, even though I already had one.
Recent conversation while on vacation: (we were going out on a small boat)
Michael: "Did you remember your new camera?"
Me: "Of course. It's right here."
Michael: "Great, because I don't want to bring mine on this boat. It might get wet. Actually, when I bought your camera - it was kind of a little for me."
Me: "Really? I would have never guessed."
The good new is - no matter how many times I lose my camera, break it, drop it in the toilet, or wear it out - there will always be one waiting for me for the next big event. And an expensive one at that! So, I really can't complain.
Have you ever noticed that men LOVE electronics? OK, that's not a big surprise to anyone. But have you noticed that it's easier to get your man to the store if the trip has something to do with electronics?
Two recent conversations related to me by my friend:
Conversation #1
Dorothy: Craig, could we go to the mall? I need to get a purse.
Craig: I thought you had a purse.
Conversation #2 a few days later while watching TV
Dorothy: Is this picture a little fuzzy?
Craig: You're right. I think I need to get you a new television - there are some plasma screens on sale. I'll get the car.
Instead of getting frustrated about our differences, take advantage. If you want your husband/boyfriend to remember your birthday, mother's day, valentines, anniversary - suggest electronics - ipod, blackberry, computer, television, palm pilot, etc. For my husband it's not the big TV's he wants. He loves little business trinkets, ipods, but most of all CAMERAS. In fact, I got a new one for my birthday, even though I already had one.
Recent conversation while on vacation: (we were going out on a small boat)
Michael: "Did you remember your new camera?"
Me: "Of course. It's right here."
Michael: "Great, because I don't want to bring mine on this boat. It might get wet. Actually, when I bought your camera - it was kind of a little for me."
Me: "Really? I would have never guessed."
The good new is - no matter how many times I lose my camera, break it, drop it in the toilet, or wear it out - there will always be one waiting for me for the next big event. And an expensive one at that! So, I really can't complain.
Monday, May 21, 2007
WHAT I LEARNED ON MY SUMMER VACATION
I recently had a great PAID vacation to Kohunlich (jungle and archeological ruins) and Cozumel (beach) compliments of Nextiraone Mexico. Not only did I have a great time, I learned:
- To dance! My husband also learned to dance, but only because I told him he was not a true mexican if he couldn't dance.
- That Mexicans are very animated and talk with their hands, which helps figure out the spanish. And if you don't know the words at least you can pretend to understand by nodding in agreement, acting disgusted, surprised, or merely stating Si! or No!? simply by watching them.
- That Mexicans truly know how to party.
- That it's not a great idea to stand under a tree staring at a monkey - they
tend to get irritated and can surprise you with a shower
- How not to throw up on a boat - Yes, I actually spent one hour on a small boat out in the ocean without puking once.
- Never buy a churro from a street vendor. (Said churro more than made up for not vomiting on the boat.
- New spanish vocabulary: mono/chango - monkey, chilango - person from Mexico (what my husband calls himself), codo - tightwad (what his colleagues call him), probecho - no true definition that I could elicit but they say it before a meal, like "bon appetit", beber - to drink (not water), and the difference between correr - to run and coger - (well just don't use that one)
- And the most important - I enjoy spending time with my husband and his friends and am looking forward to moving to Mexico.
Tuesday, April 24, 2007
MOMTHEBOMB - Dancing Queen
Yesterday I received in the mail the following letter (along with two Fiesta medals)
Dear Mrs. Reed: You won't remember me, but you provided a wonderful Fiesta moment for me the year your husband was president of the Fiesta Commission. At the luncheon you drew me and my middle-aged friends into a Conga dance line with you. Since then we have made a point of giving you our homemade Fiesta medals when we would see you at events. I won't be able to schedule much Fiesta this year, but since you have the greatest Fiesta attitude in town, I've decided to send you medals for your collection. Sincerely, (Name I've never heard)
Although I believe she was likely targeting Susan Reed, San Antonio's District Attorney (who from what I hear loves to drink and party,) it is amusing trying to picture myself in the above scenario. My entire office got a good laugh out of it. Sadldy, though, I guess I'll have to give the medals back.
Yesterday I received in the mail the following letter (along with two Fiesta medals)
Dear Mrs. Reed: You won't remember me, but you provided a wonderful Fiesta moment for me the year your husband was president of the Fiesta Commission. At the luncheon you drew me and my middle-aged friends into a Conga dance line with you. Since then we have made a point of giving you our homemade Fiesta medals when we would see you at events. I won't be able to schedule much Fiesta this year, but since you have the greatest Fiesta attitude in town, I've decided to send you medals for your collection. Sincerely, (Name I've never heard)
Although I believe she was likely targeting Susan Reed, San Antonio's District Attorney (who from what I hear loves to drink and party,) it is amusing trying to picture myself in the above scenario. My entire office got a good laugh out of it. Sadldy, though, I guess I'll have to give the medals back.
Monday, April 09, 2007
ECONOMIC REALITIES
During my recent housecleaning barrage to get my home marketable I discovered the impressive costs of family living:
One homemade pedicure: $359.99 for carpet cleaner to remove little pink toenail marks in girls' bedroom.
Do-it-yourself deck catastrophy: $2,242.89 to repair deck spraypainted with red paint instead of clear stain by well-meaning but inexperienced husband
Pregnant daughter kitty rescue: $500.00 to replace carpeting on stairs said kitty clawed - (actually we're just getting some small scissors and giving it a good trim)
Hair Color girl party: $489.99 to take up carpet in bathroom and replace with tile, since hair dye does not come out.
Memories: Priceless!!!
During my recent housecleaning barrage to get my home marketable I discovered the impressive costs of family living:
One homemade pedicure: $359.99 for carpet cleaner to remove little pink toenail marks in girls' bedroom.
Do-it-yourself deck catastrophy: $2,242.89 to repair deck spraypainted with red paint instead of clear stain by well-meaning but inexperienced husband
Pregnant daughter kitty rescue: $500.00 to replace carpeting on stairs said kitty clawed - (actually we're just getting some small scissors and giving it a good trim)
Hair Color girl party: $489.99 to take up carpet in bathroom and replace with tile, since hair dye does not come out.
Memories: Priceless!!!
Monday, March 26, 2007
INSIGHT THROUGH HUMOR
One of the great thing about the funnies is that they provide a way that we can laugh about ourselves (and others.) I prefer the others part, but recently gained some insight from a particular comit that hit home.
COMIC: Sally Forth
BACKGROUND: Sally has been obscessing over her "crazy" mother who wants to come stay with her.
1st frame: Sally and her daughter, Hillary
Hillary: You still upset about grandma?
Sally: Oh, nothing for you to worry about, Hil.
Just be glad YOU have a sane, sensible mom.
Next frame: Hillary and her best friend
Friend: This is the same woman who bites off your chocolate easter bunny ears every year, right?
Hillary: And last Thanksgiving she pre-ate the turkey drumsticks.
What, me, crazy? Never!
One of the great thing about the funnies is that they provide a way that we can laugh about ourselves (and others.) I prefer the others part, but recently gained some insight from a particular comit that hit home.
COMIC: Sally Forth
BACKGROUND: Sally has been obscessing over her "crazy" mother who wants to come stay with her.
1st frame: Sally and her daughter, Hillary
Hillary: You still upset about grandma?
Sally: Oh, nothing for you to worry about, Hil.
Just be glad YOU have a sane, sensible mom.
Next frame: Hillary and her best friend
Friend: This is the same woman who bites off your chocolate easter bunny ears every year, right?
Hillary: And last Thanksgiving she pre-ate the turkey drumsticks.
What, me, crazy? Never!
Saturday, March 17, 2007
ADDENDUM to previous blog entitled "BARGAIN HUNERS":
Please be advised that if you desire any of the aforementioned freebee items you must make a notification of that desire on my blog in order to reserve your choices. We are hiring a professional junkie to come pick up all our "extras" on Friday, March 23 at 10:00am CST. If there are any items which have not been claimed, he will be hauling them away. After reserving your treasure, you are responsible for either arranging or picking up said item/s.
Additional items:
Three sleeping bags
Printer (slow - only black/white but works)
Hurry, these hot items will be gone before you know it!
Please be advised that if you desire any of the aforementioned freebee items you must make a notification of that desire on my blog in order to reserve your choices. We are hiring a professional junkie to come pick up all our "extras" on Friday, March 23 at 10:00am CST. If there are any items which have not been claimed, he will be hauling them away. After reserving your treasure, you are responsible for either arranging or picking up said item/s.
Additional items:
Three sleeping bags
Printer (slow - only black/white but works)
Hurry, these hot items will be gone before you know it!
ATTENTION BARGAIN HUNTERS:
or anyone else who may be trolling past our house in the next few months. We have some delightful items for sale - cheap. Actually, FREE! (That's for you, brother)
Said items are listed below in no particular order and must be claimed in person on a first-come-first served basis.
Ice Chest (28 quart)
Dutch Oven (2) - Ashley has two as well that she will be picking up
Chair - purchased over 10 years ago at Super Salads!
Deer netting (used to cover your plants to keep out the varmits)
2-Gallon Igloo Water cooler
Plumbing Snake (rooter)
Camp Cots (2) green
Shop vacuum - works
Coleman matchlight propane stove - still in the box (could return to Academy for cash)
Lawn mower (could not return to store)
Bikes: One teal Univega 18 speed
One blue girls bike - manual speed no hand brakes (Lindsey's)
Kitty Litter Box - kitty not included (almost NEVER used - hence the "kitty not included")
Fertilizer spreader
Red wagon
Christmas lights
Halloween decorations - assorted indoor
Wheelbarrel - mint condition
Bauer inline skates - less than mint condition
Deep fryer - complete with Rhino propane tank
Limb saw (tree limbs, that is, not human)
Tarp
Tool organizer (yard tool as in shovels, rakes, etc)
Pole saw - I think this is used to trim the high limbs from trees (at least that's what dad does with it)
Shovel
Rakes - (2)leaf (1)garden
And that's just from cleaning out the garage. You may find other treasures in the house during our once-in-a-lifetime Spring to Mexico Cleaning!
or anyone else who may be trolling past our house in the next few months. We have some delightful items for sale - cheap. Actually, FREE! (That's for you, brother)
Said items are listed below in no particular order and must be claimed in person on a first-come-first served basis.
Ice Chest (28 quart)
Dutch Oven (2) - Ashley has two as well that she will be picking up
Chair - purchased over 10 years ago at Super Salads!
Deer netting (used to cover your plants to keep out the varmits)
2-Gallon Igloo Water cooler
Plumbing Snake (rooter)
Camp Cots (2) green
Shop vacuum - works
Coleman matchlight propane stove - still in the box (could return to Academy for cash)
Lawn mower (could not return to store)
Bikes: One teal Univega 18 speed
One blue girls bike - manual speed no hand brakes (Lindsey's)
Kitty Litter Box - kitty not included (almost NEVER used - hence the "kitty not included")
Fertilizer spreader
Red wagon
Christmas lights
Halloween decorations - assorted indoor
Wheelbarrel - mint condition
Bauer inline skates - less than mint condition
Deep fryer - complete with Rhino propane tank
Limb saw (tree limbs, that is, not human)
Tarp
Tool organizer (yard tool as in shovels, rakes, etc)
Pole saw - I think this is used to trim the high limbs from trees (at least that's what dad does with it)
Shovel
Rakes - (2)leaf (1)garden
And that's just from cleaning out the garage. You may find other treasures in the house during our once-in-a-lifetime Spring to Mexico Cleaning!
Sunday, March 11, 2007
ADDENDUM:
The following items were incorrect or omitted from the previous blog entitled "Congratulations."
Bethany was chosen as "Administrative Chief Resident" not clinical chief. It just means she gets to be the BOSS of the entire residency, not much of a change. There's no such thing as clinical chief. I guess I made up that part, but I tend to do that. It's a mom thing.
Lindsey: Congratulations are in order for an amazing girl who at the ripe old age of 18 is a JUNIOR at BYU. She tries to keep herself humble by scooping icecream at the BYU dairy queen, aka "Sugar and Spice."
Mabel - for being the most assertive girl on the playground, even when playing with kids twice her size, she holds her own. And she can be pretty loud, too. Any wonder where that came from? - her mother is the above-mentioned administrative chief.
Caroline - who at the age of 12 months already has "chores." She goes to get her shoes every morning and puts them away before bed. At this rate she's going to be doing her own laundry by the time she's three.
Are my kids/grandkids amazing or what?
The following items were incorrect or omitted from the previous blog entitled "Congratulations."
Bethany was chosen as "Administrative Chief Resident" not clinical chief. It just means she gets to be the BOSS of the entire residency, not much of a change. There's no such thing as clinical chief. I guess I made up that part, but I tend to do that. It's a mom thing.
Lindsey: Congratulations are in order for an amazing girl who at the ripe old age of 18 is a JUNIOR at BYU. She tries to keep herself humble by scooping icecream at the BYU dairy queen, aka "Sugar and Spice."
Mabel - for being the most assertive girl on the playground, even when playing with kids twice her size, she holds her own. And she can be pretty loud, too. Any wonder where that came from? - her mother is the above-mentioned administrative chief.
Caroline - who at the age of 12 months already has "chores." She goes to get her shoes every morning and puts them away before bed. At this rate she's going to be doing her own laundry by the time she's three.
Are my kids/grandkids amazing or what?
Tuesday, March 06, 2007
Say what? . . .
Yesterday I saw a teenager in our office who complained of a cough. After taking a history, I placed my stethoscope on her chest to listen to her breath sounds and said "Big breaths." (The girl was very well-endowed, by the way) Apparently that's not what she heard and she looked up at me, and said "excuse me!" I repeated myself - "Big BREATHS, not breasts". She actually thought it was pretty funny. Embarassing, but funny.
Yesterday I saw a teenager in our office who complained of a cough. After taking a history, I placed my stethoscope on her chest to listen to her breath sounds and said "Big breaths." (The girl was very well-endowed, by the way) Apparently that's not what she heard and she looked up at me, and said "excuse me!" I repeated myself - "Big BREATHS, not breasts". She actually thought it was pretty funny. Embarassing, but funny.
Monday, March 05, 2007
CONGRATULATIONS TO:
Bethany - for being elected by her peers as "Clinical Chief Resident" for next year, which is quite an honor. She will be completing her fourth and final year of residency in Ob/Gyn.
Ryan - for securing his first big job with Chevon Oil. He and Brianna will be moving to Houston in May after completing his MBA at ASU.
Brittany - who is a much sought-after physics and chemistry teacher. She has several interviews lined up, starting with a prestigious prep school near Washington, D.C. Good luck Poodle!
Ashley - for signing with a great consulting firm only weeks after beginning interviews. She will graduate from BYU in Economics in April and move to the big D (dallas) for her first real job.
Carrie - who will be graduating from BYU in April as well, not a small task after getting married, having a premature baby who spent two weeks in intensive care and then surgery a month later, moving to Houston and completing her degree online.
Lindsey - for being the best icecream scooper on the entire BYU campus. She is probably having the best social life of any Reed girl to attend BYU.
Bethany - for being elected by her peers as "Clinical Chief Resident" for next year, which is quite an honor. She will be completing her fourth and final year of residency in Ob/Gyn.
Ryan - for securing his first big job with Chevon Oil. He and Brianna will be moving to Houston in May after completing his MBA at ASU.
Brittany - who is a much sought-after physics and chemistry teacher. She has several interviews lined up, starting with a prestigious prep school near Washington, D.C. Good luck Poodle!
Ashley - for signing with a great consulting firm only weeks after beginning interviews. She will graduate from BYU in Economics in April and move to the big D (dallas) for her first real job.
Carrie - who will be graduating from BYU in April as well, not a small task after getting married, having a premature baby who spent two weeks in intensive care and then surgery a month later, moving to Houston and completing her degree online.
Lindsey - for being the best icecream scooper on the entire BYU campus. She is probably having the best social life of any Reed girl to attend BYU.
Wednesday, February 14, 2007
Happy Valentines!
It's St. Valentines Day and flu season. What do these two have in common? Every child with symptoms of flu today delayed coming to the doctor until after their Valentine party this morning so they could spread the joy. How do I know this? Our office was virtually empty this morning but jam packed beginning at 2 pm with post-party kids (who had been sick all day.) I can't think of any better way to say Be Mine than sharing your influenza germs. Way to show your kids how to share, parents!
It's St. Valentines Day and flu season. What do these two have in common? Every child with symptoms of flu today delayed coming to the doctor until after their Valentine party this morning so they could spread the joy. How do I know this? Our office was virtually empty this morning but jam packed beginning at 2 pm with post-party kids (who had been sick all day.) I can't think of any better way to say Be Mine than sharing your influenza germs. Way to show your kids how to share, parents!
Wednesday, February 07, 2007
I'm Popular!
Well, actually I'm not, but I got to pretend I was for a weekend. It's my daughter that's popular. She teaches high school in Macon, Georgia and the kids LOVE her! There are about 30 students every morning before school just hanging out in her classroom. I went to visit last weekend and I had never felt so popular in a high school setting (or any setting for that matter.) Everywhere we went we heard "Hi Ms. Reed, Hi, Ms. Reed's mom!" It was a great weekend - but not just because I was popular. I had fun with Poodle. Thanks, Poodle!
Well, actually I'm not, but I got to pretend I was for a weekend. It's my daughter that's popular. She teaches high school in Macon, Georgia and the kids LOVE her! There are about 30 students every morning before school just hanging out in her classroom. I went to visit last weekend and I had never felt so popular in a high school setting (or any setting for that matter.) Everywhere we went we heard "Hi Ms. Reed, Hi, Ms. Reed's mom!" It was a great weekend - but not just because I was popular. I had fun with Poodle. Thanks, Poodle!
Thursday, February 01, 2007
Dream Come True - almost
As a type A kind of obscessive-compulsive person I have always had a secret fantasy - to have the world stop for one day so that I could "catch up" on everything I have going on while the rest of the world was "frozen in time." Well amazingly, my dream finally came true. Two weeks ago in San Antonio a winter storm came through that virtually shut down the entire city for two days. Every major freeway in the city closed, schools closed, and many businesses closed - including Alamo Heights Pediatrics, where I work. I could not believe my luck. While the rest of the city huddled in blankets watching TV I went into overdrive. I scrubbed every floor in the house, cleaned and scrubbed every bathroom, and laundered all of the bedding. I cleaned and organized every closet, drawer and cupboard in the entire house, coming up with six large trash bags of unwanted stuff. I also made seven white dresses, complete with different colored scarves and sashes for a play I was in charge of the next week. I folded the dresses and placed them all in a large shopping bag on the couch. I was elated that I had finally caught up! Well, almost.
My husband, Mike came home and decided the large trash bags waiting at the door to go to "Good Will" were junk and needed to be thrown out. Unfortunately, he got a little carried away and decided that the large shopping bag on the couch must be junk as well and threw it out. It was like waking from a fabulous dream to find it was not reality. I thought it was too good to be true. Maybe next time the city shuts down I'll sip hot cocoa and watch TV. Far less stress. Oh yeah, and Mike is not allowed to take out the trash again EVER.
As a type A kind of obscessive-compulsive person I have always had a secret fantasy - to have the world stop for one day so that I could "catch up" on everything I have going on while the rest of the world was "frozen in time." Well amazingly, my dream finally came true. Two weeks ago in San Antonio a winter storm came through that virtually shut down the entire city for two days. Every major freeway in the city closed, schools closed, and many businesses closed - including Alamo Heights Pediatrics, where I work. I could not believe my luck. While the rest of the city huddled in blankets watching TV I went into overdrive. I scrubbed every floor in the house, cleaned and scrubbed every bathroom, and laundered all of the bedding. I cleaned and organized every closet, drawer and cupboard in the entire house, coming up with six large trash bags of unwanted stuff. I also made seven white dresses, complete with different colored scarves and sashes for a play I was in charge of the next week. I folded the dresses and placed them all in a large shopping bag on the couch. I was elated that I had finally caught up! Well, almost.
My husband, Mike came home and decided the large trash bags waiting at the door to go to "Good Will" were junk and needed to be thrown out. Unfortunately, he got a little carried away and decided that the large shopping bag on the couch must be junk as well and threw it out. It was like waking from a fabulous dream to find it was not reality. I thought it was too good to be true. Maybe next time the city shuts down I'll sip hot cocoa and watch TV. Far less stress. Oh yeah, and Mike is not allowed to take out the trash again EVER.
Friday, December 08, 2006
Christmas Letter First Draft: Notice for all who wish to edit - Please do!
I decided to post the "christmas letter" ahead of time on my blog so that it may be revised by readers with actual talent for writing, specifically desiring the addition of some humor. These will be published as is if not edited.
The year 2006 has been a year of "firsts" for the Reeds.
Michael and Susan became grandparents for the first time with the birth of Mabel, closely followed by Caroline. Becoming a grandparent is certainly one of life´s greatest milestones. They also entered the world of empty-nesters. Michael seems to be adapting the best - an empty house is not much different than his apartment in Mexico and he doesn´t seem to mind all of Susan´s attention being focused on him.
Bethany and Brandon welcomed their first child, Mabel Patrice on January 2. Mabel is a great combination of both parents - tall and fair like dad, and beautiful, loud and assertive like mom - a perfect first grandchild. Bethany had "Baby 411" memorized before Mabel was born, but still makes an occasional consult phone call to her favorite pediatrician - grandma. Brandon has been able to work from home while watching Mabel. Bethany is in her third year of residency and races home every day to Mabel, who loves her mommy!
Ryan and Brianna still live in Arizona, where they purchased their first home this year. Enduring dust storms and 110° weather they trained for and completed their first (and last, according to Ryan) marathon. Ryan is scheduled to complete his MBA program at ASU in May and is aggressively seeking employment - hopefully in Texas, although Brianna would love to stay in Arizona. The new house provides a little incentive for the latter.
Brittany completed her first year of teaching physics and chemistry at Mt. DeSales Academy in Macon, Georgia. In addition to teaching she mentors students, coaches the cross country team, manages the dance team and also a private soccer team. Who would have thought - our least athletically-inclined child. The faculty are slowly beginning to differentiate her from the students, but only because the students wear uniforms.
Ashley recovered from that post-mission awkward phase and focused her enthusiasm towards finishing her degree in economics, working as a teaching assistant and managing Lindsey's social life. She will be completing an internship in Washington, D.C. next semester, for which she received a substantial grant. She will graduate in April from BYU and has already signed on with a terrific company in Dallas, Texas for her first "real" job.
Carrie and Shawn received their first big surprise when Caroline, their first child, decided to come 7 weeks prematurely. After two weeks in the NICU they brought her home, only to return several weeks later for surgery. Amazingly, neither parent suffered a nervous breakdown and they both managed to finish their coursework on time. Shawn graduated from BYU in April and began his first year of medical school at UT Houston. Carrie will graduate from BYU next April after finishing her remaining on-line courses. After all that trouble, Caroline turned out to be a very sweet, healthy baby and is best friends with cousin Mabel.
Lindsey graduated from Reagan High School as a National Merit Commended Scholar and began her first semester at BYU with 52 credit hours from AP exams, saving her parents a ton of money. Her seminary class voted her "most likely to be proposed to in several different languages her first semester" but she failed to live up to the challenge. She did get all A's, however. She works part-time scooping icecream while practicing her flirting skills. She loves BYU and claims to have adopted the "catch and release" method of dating. We'll see how long that lasts.
May each of you enjoy peace and happiness this next year. With love, The Reeds
I decided to post the "christmas letter" ahead of time on my blog so that it may be revised by readers with actual talent for writing, specifically desiring the addition of some humor. These will be published as is if not edited.
The year 2006 has been a year of "firsts" for the Reeds.
Michael and Susan became grandparents for the first time with the birth of Mabel, closely followed by Caroline. Becoming a grandparent is certainly one of life´s greatest milestones. They also entered the world of empty-nesters. Michael seems to be adapting the best - an empty house is not much different than his apartment in Mexico and he doesn´t seem to mind all of Susan´s attention being focused on him.
Bethany and Brandon welcomed their first child, Mabel Patrice on January 2. Mabel is a great combination of both parents - tall and fair like dad, and beautiful, loud and assertive like mom - a perfect first grandchild. Bethany had "Baby 411" memorized before Mabel was born, but still makes an occasional consult phone call to her favorite pediatrician - grandma. Brandon has been able to work from home while watching Mabel. Bethany is in her third year of residency and races home every day to Mabel, who loves her mommy!
Ryan and Brianna still live in Arizona, where they purchased their first home this year. Enduring dust storms and 110° weather they trained for and completed their first (and last, according to Ryan) marathon. Ryan is scheduled to complete his MBA program at ASU in May and is aggressively seeking employment - hopefully in Texas, although Brianna would love to stay in Arizona. The new house provides a little incentive for the latter.
Brittany completed her first year of teaching physics and chemistry at Mt. DeSales Academy in Macon, Georgia. In addition to teaching she mentors students, coaches the cross country team, manages the dance team and also a private soccer team. Who would have thought - our least athletically-inclined child. The faculty are slowly beginning to differentiate her from the students, but only because the students wear uniforms.
Ashley recovered from that post-mission awkward phase and focused her enthusiasm towards finishing her degree in economics, working as a teaching assistant and managing Lindsey's social life. She will be completing an internship in Washington, D.C. next semester, for which she received a substantial grant. She will graduate in April from BYU and has already signed on with a terrific company in Dallas, Texas for her first "real" job.
Carrie and Shawn received their first big surprise when Caroline, their first child, decided to come 7 weeks prematurely. After two weeks in the NICU they brought her home, only to return several weeks later for surgery. Amazingly, neither parent suffered a nervous breakdown and they both managed to finish their coursework on time. Shawn graduated from BYU in April and began his first year of medical school at UT Houston. Carrie will graduate from BYU next April after finishing her remaining on-line courses. After all that trouble, Caroline turned out to be a very sweet, healthy baby and is best friends with cousin Mabel.
Lindsey graduated from Reagan High School as a National Merit Commended Scholar and began her first semester at BYU with 52 credit hours from AP exams, saving her parents a ton of money. Her seminary class voted her "most likely to be proposed to in several different languages her first semester" but she failed to live up to the challenge. She did get all A's, however. She works part-time scooping icecream while practicing her flirting skills. She loves BYU and claims to have adopted the "catch and release" method of dating. We'll see how long that lasts.
May each of you enjoy peace and happiness this next year. With love, The Reeds
Tuesday, November 28, 2006
Cheap?
I recently returned from a trip to London. This was a freebee as my husband's company was sending him, my trip was paid for in frequent flier miles, and all we had to pay was the extra two days for the hotel. The hotel offered a daily breakfast for a posted $12.50. We decided this was too pricey and walked daily to a local grocery store to buy fruit and bagels. It wasn't until we checked out that we discovered the $12.50 was included in the hotel fee. Ironic? or just plain cheap. Review the guidelines below to see if you qualify.
You may be a tightwad IF:
I recently returned from a trip to London. This was a freebee as my husband's company was sending him, my trip was paid for in frequent flier miles, and all we had to pay was the extra two days for the hotel. The hotel offered a daily breakfast for a posted $12.50. We decided this was too pricey and walked daily to a local grocery store to buy fruit and bagels. It wasn't until we checked out that we discovered the $12.50 was included in the hotel fee. Ironic? or just plain cheap. Review the guidelines below to see if you qualify.
You may be a tightwad IF:
- You spend all day detaching the tailgate to the pick-up and tying into the bed of the truck to reduce wind resistance and save $ for gas
- You spent your honeymoon in Bottle Hollow
- Your children think a coupon is required to make a purchase
- You share a hamburger at McDonald's because they're too expensive
- An order of buddy-burgers constitutes a meal for three
- Church's Fried Chicken is the special college graduation dining spot
- Water (with lemon ) is the standard drink order
- Your children have never had their own fries
- A sale is not a sale unless it is 75% off
- When on vacation you only eat 1-2 meals a day
Monday, October 16, 2006
PRICELESS WRITINGS
Going through some old boxes the other day I came upon some writings of my children from elementary school. See if you can identify the writers. These are "as is" with no corrections of spelling or grammar. Take the quiz and see how you do.
Item #1
The happiest day of my life was when I spranged my ankle. It was so fun because I got to sit aroung doing nothing. I could barly walk so I didn't have to do my chores. And I got to sit out of P.E. for the rest of the year and that was only one more week. So the happiest day in my life was when I spranged my ankle.
a. Bethany
b. Carrie
c. Lindsey
d. Ashley
Item #2
Journal entry 3/28/88
I am excited about my new baby. My mom is going to have her baby on may the 13. We allredy have 4 girls and 1 boy. Ryan is my big brother he is going to run away if it is another girl. I do hope it is a boy.
a. Brittany
b. Carrie
c. Ashley
d. Lindsey
Item #3
Envelope with instructions: (Small tooth enclosed - envelope was sealed)
Love Tooth Fairy
Tooth Fairy:
Pick up and
Deposit one Dollar
to me!
Signed Name: ______________
a. Ryan
b. Bethany
c. Ashley
d. Brittany
Item #4
The Future
In 90 years I would be 100 years old. I would be a retired lawyer. I would drive a corvette convertable and live in space. I will have two kids named Jim and Matt.
a. Ashley
b. Ryan
c. Bethany
d. Lindsey
Item #5
Homemade Christmas card addressed to me:
This is for you on
Christmas Day, we
present it to you
in a merry way. We
hope you enjoy all
the things that we do.
We tried to make this
Christmas special for
you. So sit back and relax,
Eat your breakfast with joy -
Then give us our toys!
a. Ryan
b. Brittany
c. Bethany
d. Ashley
Answers given on request.
Going through some old boxes the other day I came upon some writings of my children from elementary school. See if you can identify the writers. These are "as is" with no corrections of spelling or grammar. Take the quiz and see how you do.
Item #1
The happiest day of my life was when I spranged my ankle. It was so fun because I got to sit aroung doing nothing. I could barly walk so I didn't have to do my chores. And I got to sit out of P.E. for the rest of the year and that was only one more week. So the happiest day in my life was when I spranged my ankle.
a. Bethany
b. Carrie
c. Lindsey
d. Ashley
Item #2
Journal entry 3/28/88
I am excited about my new baby. My mom is going to have her baby on may the 13. We allredy have 4 girls and 1 boy. Ryan is my big brother he is going to run away if it is another girl. I do hope it is a boy.
a. Brittany
b. Carrie
c. Ashley
d. Lindsey
Item #3
Envelope with instructions: (Small tooth enclosed - envelope was sealed)
Love Tooth Fairy
Tooth Fairy:
Pick up and
Deposit one Dollar
to me!
Signed Name: ______________
a. Ryan
b. Bethany
c. Ashley
d. Brittany
Item #4
The Future
In 90 years I would be 100 years old. I would be a retired lawyer. I would drive a corvette convertable and live in space. I will have two kids named Jim and Matt.
a. Ashley
b. Ryan
c. Bethany
d. Lindsey
Item #5
Homemade Christmas card addressed to me:
This is for you on
Christmas Day, we
present it to you
in a merry way. We
hope you enjoy all
the things that we do.
We tried to make this
Christmas special for
you. So sit back and relax,
Eat your breakfast with joy -
Then give us our toys!
a. Ryan
b. Brittany
c. Bethany
d. Ashley
Answers given on request.
Saturday, October 14, 2006
Marathon Mania
I ran the St. George Marathon last weekend with my son and his wife. We had a fabulous time and it renewed my enthusiasm for marathons. Given that I am a mother of six I discovered there are quite a few similarities to having a baby and running a marathon.
The easiest part is making the decision. Once you have announced your decision you get encouragement from sources you never knew. People call with their advice. Strangers on the street stop you tell you their own personal stories. At socials the marathoners/mothers seem to gravitate to one another with testaments of glory,( i.e. personal bests/fastest labor), of horror, and in some cases of defeat.
The first few months your body adjusts to and complains about your decision. You are tired, cranky, nauseous, and downright miserable. As it gets used to your condition the symptoms ease.
The last few months time slows to a crawl. All you want is to just get it over with. Especially if this is your first, you feel a heightened sense of anticipation and worry. What if I don't make it? What if I give up? What if's abound.
Finally the day comes that you begin the big journey. Everyone begins with eager anticipation. You may have friends waiting at the finish line or have called family to alert them that the end is in sight. After training for nine months you begin at the starting line (or hospital.) Spirits are high and chit-chat is endless. This is so much fun! Jokes abound as does advice. Now don't go out too fast. Just breathe in through your nose, out through your mouth. That's it! As time crawls on the conversation becomes slighly more tense.
At about the 18-20 mile mark you will hit what's called "TheWall" or in maternity terms "transition labor." Runners want to quit. Moms would if they could (or ask for an epidural.) This is the point where you sneer at your husband and tell him to "turn the stupid TV off" and you ask yourself "what was I thinking?" This is where my husband vowed to sleep in the bathtub for the rest of his life. (That was on our third) Husbands really toe the line at this point (mostly for their own preservation.) Runners become mute and deaf. The group effort is over.
Luckily,"the wall" gives way to a second wind and we move on to the actual birth or "run for the finish line." This is the best part of all, because the end is in sight (not literally in the maternal world) and the pain, surprisingly, is superceded by this surge of energy. The end is a dramatic climax of the last nine months and of your life. You experience ultimate joy, a high above all highs when they place your baby in your arms. Tears flow freely. This is where the one difference comes - the medallion around the neck simply cannot compare. However, I have never heard a mother OR runner say it wasn't worth it. Perhaps that's why I've done it six times. I just can't get enough.
I ran the St. George Marathon last weekend with my son and his wife. We had a fabulous time and it renewed my enthusiasm for marathons. Given that I am a mother of six I discovered there are quite a few similarities to having a baby and running a marathon.
The easiest part is making the decision. Once you have announced your decision you get encouragement from sources you never knew. People call with their advice. Strangers on the street stop you tell you their own personal stories. At socials the marathoners/mothers seem to gravitate to one another with testaments of glory,( i.e. personal bests/fastest labor), of horror, and in some cases of defeat.
The first few months your body adjusts to and complains about your decision. You are tired, cranky, nauseous, and downright miserable. As it gets used to your condition the symptoms ease.
The last few months time slows to a crawl. All you want is to just get it over with. Especially if this is your first, you feel a heightened sense of anticipation and worry. What if I don't make it? What if I give up? What if's abound.
Finally the day comes that you begin the big journey. Everyone begins with eager anticipation. You may have friends waiting at the finish line or have called family to alert them that the end is in sight. After training for nine months you begin at the starting line (or hospital.) Spirits are high and chit-chat is endless. This is so much fun! Jokes abound as does advice. Now don't go out too fast. Just breathe in through your nose, out through your mouth. That's it! As time crawls on the conversation becomes slighly more tense.
At about the 18-20 mile mark you will hit what's called "TheWall" or in maternity terms "transition labor." Runners want to quit. Moms would if they could (or ask for an epidural.) This is the point where you sneer at your husband and tell him to "turn the stupid TV off" and you ask yourself "what was I thinking?" This is where my husband vowed to sleep in the bathtub for the rest of his life. (That was on our third) Husbands really toe the line at this point (mostly for their own preservation.) Runners become mute and deaf. The group effort is over.
Luckily,"the wall" gives way to a second wind and we move on to the actual birth or "run for the finish line." This is the best part of all, because the end is in sight (not literally in the maternal world) and the pain, surprisingly, is superceded by this surge of energy. The end is a dramatic climax of the last nine months and of your life. You experience ultimate joy, a high above all highs when they place your baby in your arms. Tears flow freely. This is where the one difference comes - the medallion around the neck simply cannot compare. However, I have never heard a mother OR runner say it wasn't worth it. Perhaps that's why I've done it six times. I just can't get enough.
Sunday, September 17, 2006
Dad
My dad turned 77 this weekend. Since he lives in Utah I wasn't able to visit him for his birthday. He has accomplished quite a bit in 77 years. He raised seven children, one of which is me, so that's quite a feat. He has served a mission for our church beginning in Guam and ending in Washington State. Both he and my mom have worked for over 20 years in the temple. He has become an expert gardener, and even makes his own grapejuice from the concord grape patch in the backyard. He ran a lawncare business for many years and was well-known for teaching kids how to work. To him I owe my work ethic. Dad is opinionated, stubborn, and fiercely independent. Those strong traits managed to get passed on to me. He loves to share his expertise, but I rarely ask for advice. Last year I had a problem I thought he could help with.
I planted tomatoes in my backyard and was frustrated because the squirrels in the woods behind our home kept eating them. I tried everything, mesh, wiring, fence and nothing helped. In desperation I went to my dad for advice. He offered three suggestions:
1. You could put poison out in the yard disguised as food. When they eat it and die, spread their dead carcasses around as a warning to the other squirrels. Hopefully Coop dog won't die first.
2. Try using large rat traps baited with a favorite treat. Again, leave the carcasses out.
3. Set Lindsey on the deck with a shotgun and have her pick them off as they try to steal the tomatoes. (One large red blast and I wouldn't have to worry about tomatoes, squirrels, or anything but repairing my back fence)
Thanks for the advice dad! I didn't use it but it was entertaining.
Happy Birthday!
My dad turned 77 this weekend. Since he lives in Utah I wasn't able to visit him for his birthday. He has accomplished quite a bit in 77 years. He raised seven children, one of which is me, so that's quite a feat. He has served a mission for our church beginning in Guam and ending in Washington State. Both he and my mom have worked for over 20 years in the temple. He has become an expert gardener, and even makes his own grapejuice from the concord grape patch in the backyard. He ran a lawncare business for many years and was well-known for teaching kids how to work. To him I owe my work ethic. Dad is opinionated, stubborn, and fiercely independent. Those strong traits managed to get passed on to me. He loves to share his expertise, but I rarely ask for advice. Last year I had a problem I thought he could help with.
I planted tomatoes in my backyard and was frustrated because the squirrels in the woods behind our home kept eating them. I tried everything, mesh, wiring, fence and nothing helped. In desperation I went to my dad for advice. He offered three suggestions:
1. You could put poison out in the yard disguised as food. When they eat it and die, spread their dead carcasses around as a warning to the other squirrels. Hopefully Coop dog won't die first.
2. Try using large rat traps baited with a favorite treat. Again, leave the carcasses out.
3. Set Lindsey on the deck with a shotgun and have her pick them off as they try to steal the tomatoes. (One large red blast and I wouldn't have to worry about tomatoes, squirrels, or anything but repairing my back fence)
Thanks for the advice dad! I didn't use it but it was entertaining.
Happy Birthday!
Tuesday, September 05, 2006
FREE!
I'm free! I'm free! I'm free! Free! Free!
And I didn't have to tie her up with 20 lbs of dynamite around her neck.
All I did was take her to Ramon (my new best friend) along with 5 tons of catfood, catnip, and accessories.
This is what we call a win/win/win situation. Ramon wins - he loves cats. Pedro wins - Ramon loves cats. And best of all - I win - I'm free! (and sane)
I'm free! I'm free! I'm free! Free! Free!
And I didn't have to tie her up with 20 lbs of dynamite around her neck.
All I did was take her to Ramon (my new best friend) along with 5 tons of catfood, catnip, and accessories.
This is what we call a win/win/win situation. Ramon wins - he loves cats. Pedro wins - Ramon loves cats. And best of all - I win - I'm free! (and sane)
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