The Angela Adventures

One word wonders!

2008-08-10T13:53:00.004-05:00

My daughter, Karen, "tagged" me....so here I go!

The Rules: Answer the questions using only one word. Then tag three others.

1. Where is your cell phone? purse
2. Your significant other? jogger
3. Your hair? blondish
4. Your mother? needy
5. Your father? deceased
6. Your favorite thing? makeup
7. Your dream last night? awful
8 Your favorite drink? java
9. Your dream/goal? travel
10. The room you’re in? office
11. Your hobby? domestics
12. Your fear? fattness
13. What do you want to be in 6 years? retired
14. What you’re not? gardener
15. Muffins? bran
16. One of your wish list items? pool
17. Where you grew up? Santa Rosa
18. The last thing you did? fishing
19. What are you wearing? dress
20. Favorite gadget? T-folder (it's for laundry)
21. Your pets? birds m(wild)
22. Your computer? aging
23. Your mood? anxious
24. Missing someone?always
25. Your car? red!
26. Something you’re not wearing? glasses
27. Favorite store? Talbots
28. Like someone? always
29. Your favorite color? red
30. When is the last time you laughed? earlier
31. Last time you cried? today

I tag Deborah G, Sharon R and Sarah V.

posted by thenorvells at 2:40 PM on Aug 8, 2008

I left my heart.....in San Francisco (March 2008)

2008-06-15T22:02:00.008-05:00

We are almost halfway through 2008 and I have not published a blog post since Christmas 2007. Good Grief!

Life has been very busy this year. I changed jobs at the end of 2007 (same corporation, different position); Mike and I have worked through the hassles of home improvement projects -foundation work, more foundation work, major plumbing issues, new carpeting and floors, re-faced kitchen, painting throughout the interior...whew...I'm weary just typing the phrases! But our home is looking so lovely and we are almost finished with the major work. We are grateful that even during these challenging economic times, we are able to do this much-needed work. Thank you, Lord!

And so what does the title of this blog refer to? Our 4-day trip at the end of March to the San Francisco bay area and our visit to Sonoma County for my youngest sister's wedding.

Our flight to California was booked on American Airlines right about the time the MD 80 fleet was grounded for repairs. We lost a day of travel time due to 5 canceled flights...we finally arrived in San Francisco late afternoon instead of mid-morning. Could have been alot worse! We stayed at Fisherman's Wharf and enjoyed the beautiful March weather in the City. We toured the wharf and marina area, took the cable car to downtown Mission Street, and then walked back to the Wharf (yes, all uphill) with a detour through China Town. Very enjoyable...I'd do it again in a heartbeat. There's something so romantic and wonderful about the San Francisco skyline.

Mike on the pier; Alcatraz island on the horizon.
A view from the sidewalks close to the wharf.
A San Francisco Treat....and a tradition!
The weather was absolutely gorgeous.
At the end of the uphill walk from Mission St.
After our morning's walk back to the Fisherman's Wharf area from downtown San Francisco, we packed the car and headed north to Sonoma County. We detoured on the way with a "field trip" to Muir Woods. The winding road up the side of Mt. Tamalpais provided for some challenging driving; Mike's only regret was that he was in a rental car and not his red Toyota MR2...more fun to drive on that curvy route!

A roadside stop while driving up the mountainside. Very, very tall trees...I feel like a tiny field mouse in the forest.
Mike, don't tell me you've become a tree-hugger?
We ended our long weekend in California with a very busy, fun-filled time celebrating my sister's wedding. My mother was ecstatic to have her four daughters together in one locale. The wedding was lovely. I hope you enjoy the photos below!

Dennis and DeeDee...and their classic 1957 T-bird sports car! The wedding ceremony (Pam is in green); Dennis's brother is best man.
My adorable niece, Nicole!
Grandma Nan (my mom) and me!
The siblings! Pam, Dee Dee, Debbie, Angie and Mom.

Another Year Older...A Day of Thanksgiving...A Christmas Season that marks a new season of life.

2007-12-29T19:19:00.000-06:00

November and December 2007...the phrase that most aptly describes the 8 weeks comprising these two months is "emotional change". Another birthday (I'm now 58); a new job and more travel (much to learn in a very short time frame); a new church; a Thanksgiving dinner without the traditional sumptuous "favorites" that have adorned my table in years past; a pre-Christmas celebration in a different city, a different home, but with my adorable step-grandchildren, step-daughter and son-in-law, and step-son...not to mention new husband; Christmas Eve alone with my husband, Mike, in a quiet house; Christmas Morning alone with my husband, Mike, in a very quiet house; Christmas afternoon at the Byrne-Breard family dinner party with at least 30 people (probably more) enjoying the camaraderie of their immediate and extended families...not as quiet as our Christmas morning, to say the least, but much fun!

On this day, December 29th, 2007, as I reflect over the past several weeks I realize I have entered a new season of life and I have left behind one that I'm forced to hold as a treasured memory. For the first time in 30 years I'm no longer the "matriarch in charge" of seasonal celebrations, traditional dinners, and family gatherings. My children have their own families, their own lives, their own jobs, their own preferences, their own friends. I raised these amazing young adults to respect their educations, find their vocations, commit to their families, become contributing citizens! And they have done just that...in three different cities in three different states, and the likelihood of coming together annually is quite slim...and that's a reality I'm forced to embrace. My prayer is that I'll embrace it with a happy countenance, and not a sad one; a grateful heart, and not a despising one; and a servant's humble disposition, not a prideful one.

So, I swallow hard, choke back tears, and forge forward into 2008 with a fresh determination! What are my expectations? Well, I've learned that if I set them too high, I inevitably face disappointment. Therefore, I'm setting reasonable, attainable goals...

(1) Love, care for, and respect my wonderful husband, Mike.
(2) Maintain my present weight, with a preference of lowering it by at least 4 lbs.
(3) Continue my work-out regimen (3 times per week) at Curves for Women.
(4) Walk on my treadmill at least 2 times per week.
(5) Daily Bible Reading with a goal of reading through the Old and New Testaments in a year's time
(6) Finish our household face lift...repairs, upgrades, etc.
(7) Save additional money towards retirement
(8) Dedicate myself to some kind of ministry of mercy (i.e. visiting shut-ins, caregivers, etc.)

I'll close with November and December photo highlights of this most wonderful time of year. I'm welcoming 2008...I hope you are, too.

The Pilgrim Princess and her Indian Chief!

Angie stuffing the turkey on Thanksgiving Morning!

Michael, Angie, John and Sarah...Pilgrims and Indian Girl!

Once a teacher, always a teacher! Making our hats.

Christmas in Georgetown...reading to the Grandsons!

Peter opens his new leather moccasin shoes!

Michael opening his Star Wars ship.
Sarah was thrilled with her own gardening tools.

Sharon made me this terrific over-the-shoulder apron!

Granddaddy and Uncle Allen help Sarah with her spherical puzzle, but where is Sarah?

Celebrating Love, Family, Happiness, and God's Grace!

2007-10-07T09:22:00.000-05:00

Our wedding celebration was two weeks ago on September 22nd, 11:30 a.m. at Park Cities Baptist Church. It was a lovely event -very casual, very family-oriented, and we were blessed to have over 40 of our family members present, on both sides. A few photos are posted from our engagement party and our wedding ceremony...

Thanks to all of you who have supported us during our courtship and recent marriage.

~Angie's family~

David and Karen, Sarah, Angie and Mike, Mother/Nan, Rachel and Mike

~The Ceremony~

My new granchildren by marriage! John (kissing me), Michael and Sarah; baby Peter is missing in this snapshot.

The Breard Extended Family

The Bride and Groom!
The Parlor was the setting for our ceremony and reception. Such a lovely room!

Wedding Morning: In the Parlor at Park Cities Baptist Church

Angie, Mike and Granddaughter, Sarah - She hostessed our Guest Book Table!

Stepdaughter, Sharon, and Angie at our Engagement Celebration Party the night before the wedding. She's a treasure!

Angie's mother, Nan, in between the happy couple!
Photo taken at the Engagement Party hosted by Mike's siblings and spouses!

Luncheon reception, including a delicious lemon cream wedding cake.

Father and Son! Aren't they handsome? Allen played piano before and during the ceremony.

The handsome Tom (my father-in-law) and my beautiful mother-in-law. Kathleen celebrates her 96th birthday on Tuesday, October 9th! She's incredibly lovely!

2007-09-02T20:40:00.000-05:00

A "sleep-over" at Grangie's house!

What's more exciting than playing matchbox cars on Granddaddy's coffee table, or sleeping on air mattresses in Uncle Allen's old room? Spending the night with "Grangie" in Grapevine!

Of course, I didn't have all four children at once....just three of them since Baby Peter is still dependent on his mother! I had Sarah first for some "girl time" and then the boys tonight. Needless to say, my Labor Day weekend has proven to be fun-filled, but yet "laborious"! Especially when the weekend has also been spent clearing out and cleaning up Granddaddy's home in anticipation of kitchen remodeling, and major home improvements.

Photos below depict some of the "fun" had during the sleepovers: Sarah having breakfast served to her while watching Sunday morning football games (yes, the girl loves football...she's a true Texan!) And the boys enjoying a bubble bath in Grangie's whirlpool tub!

And so....what shall we call her when she marries Granddaddy?

2007-07-22T21:13:00.000-05:00

Shortly after my engagement to dear Mike, the grandchildren wanted to know what my name would be! Maw Maw (no...absolutely not!) Grandma? Nanna? Yiayia(Greek word for Grandmother)? Angie? Granddaughter Sarah, age 8, came up with an adorable name suggestion and it was forwarded to me by her mother. I loved the name idea...my own children did, too (especially since they wanted me to reserve "YiaYia" for their own children, their unique heritage)....and so, to the B______ grandchildren I am affectionately known as "Grangie"...and I love it!!

So, Grangie took care of three of the four grandchildren last Saturday, while Sharon and Dad/Granddaddy worked on clearing out the Dallas home we will share together once we are married. I had a wonderful day with the three children...ages 8, 6 and 3. I drove Sharon's large Ford SUV with the car seats and planned a day of shopping, lunch at McDonalds, home-made birthday cake project in my kitchen (it is baby Peter's first birthday), and also home-made chocolate chip cookies.

We did our shopping at Target so that the children could meet my daughter, Karen, who works at the Starbucks at our Super-Target. The look on Karen's face said it all once she saw me with a full shopping cart and 3 children...."Mother, are you sure you are up to this?" And my response was a full-grinning "YES"... And I had a blast indeed! Here are some photos of our day...I was tired at the end, but very fulfilled with my first day as "Grangie"...

3-year old John, loving the cake batter spatula!

He has the most endearing smile!

Michael, age 6; John, age 3; Sarah, age 8.

Sarah frosting the birthday cake.

The finished product and three proud siblings ready to celebrate baby brother's birthday!

The birthday boy, adorable Peter!

The Rainforst Cafe...Michael

Sarah and John at the Rainforest Cafe

2007-07-07T09:13:00.000-05:00

The Stamps Quartet

The Best in Southern Gospel Music!

A week ago on a Saturday night, Mike and I drove to Benbrook, Texas, to hear the world-famous Stamps Quartet. They are so world famous...and so southern gospel music...that I had never heard of them, nor had I ever heard them spoken of! Until I met Mike, that is. And so, we weathered torrential rain, black clouds, slick streets and made our way to the First Baptist Church of Benbrook. Mike was very determined that I hear this group of male vocalists.

And I was astonished, to say the least. Never, and I mean never, have I heard more beautiful tenor, baritone and bass voices. The quartet sang very traditional hymns of our faith, and then some lively southern gospel arrangements. Not only was it beautiful and entertaining, it was worshipful and inspiring. I was moved to tears more than once.

Please access their home page and if you are in the area where they are performing, please make an effort to attend. You'll be glad you did!

Love to all my readers!

~Angie~

It is with a glad heart that I share this wonderful announcement!

2007-06-13T21:59:00.000-05:00

Our God works in mysterious ways, His wonders to perform! At a time in my life when I was uncertain what the future might hold for me in terms of companionship...I meet a most kind, gentle, wonderful Christian man. His name is Mike. You've seen him elsewhere on my blog site. We've spent many hours together becoming acquainted: Long conversations, enjoyable dates, weekend trips to meet family, dinners with friends and family members, walks, concerts, excursions, talks, discussions, and more talks and more discussions! And then a couple of weeks ago, we both realized we were in love with each other and that being together was true joy for both of us. And so we start a new chapter of our lives, in these our "senior" years. Mike asked me to marry him over Memorial Day Weekend in Georgetown, TX ... and I said "YES"!

My dear Mike and me, moments after presenting me with my ring.

My gorgeous solitaire princess cut engagement ring, in a white palladium cathedral setting.

Anschar Diamonds has a gorgeous showroom...Can you see Audrey Hepburn in the beautiful window? Her tiara and an amazing diamond ring and necklace is also showcased in the display window.
To say the least, I'm a bit emotional and Mike is as well! It was an evening to remember!

We celebrated with Mike's dear friends (and now mine as well), Mike and Debbie S. (yes, lots of "Mike's" within our family and friends). These two individuals are terrific Christian parents, church members, and citizens of this great country we live in. I'm looking forward to spending good times with them in the months to come.

I've also shared our news with my monthly fellowship group. It was a blessing to have their support; Mike has enjoyed getting to know them and we'll continue to participate in this Care Group.

And so, Family and Friends! The news is now public! We have not yet set a date. We are visiting with family members on both sides and considering options. We'll keep you posted! At this point we are thinking "small, intimate, and meaningful"...

I'll close with this... I am blessed and honored to be the object of Mike's affection! He is a treasure and I love him dearly. I will always look at him as God's merciful gift to me at this time in my life. We are both happy beyond our greatest expectations.

My Personality Profile

2007-06-06T22:37:00.000-05:00

Read my VisualDNA™ Get your own VisualDNA™

A Memorable Memorial Day Weekend...

2007-05-28T20:23:00.000-05:00

I love 3-day weekends...thank you, US Government, for creating Memorial Day Monday every year!

Last Friday I spent most of the day with Karen and Dave, beloved daughter and son-in-law, while Karen had her gall bladder surgery. I'm so happy that all turned out well, and that she should be experiencing tremendous relief for the tummy ailments that have plagued her since high school! Praise the Lord for a skilled surgeon (handsome, too), and nurturing female anesthesiologist, and the wonderful nursing staff at Baylor Hospital.

Saturday morning found me riding in Mike's red Toyota MR2 southward to Georgetown, TX to visit his daughter and son-in-law, Sharon and Byron. Their four children (Sarah, Michael, John and Peter) were so excited to see their Grand-Dad and since I had met them on a previous occasion, they were also delighted that I was coming, too.

Sharon and Byron's home is amazing! It's a Texas historical landmark, built in the late 1800's, and it has been beautifully restored by these amazing two adults. I've posted some pictures for you to enjoy...I'm particularly enchanted by the exterior and in love with the colors and schemes they have chosen for the interior.
The beautiful staircase (which is hard to see because we took family pictures in front of it) was the original wood and design...so well-preserved and beautiful. Hardwood floors throughout...Oh...such charm!

Who is in the photo to the right? Mike is holding adorable little Peter, age 10 months. I'm holding John, age 3. To the right of John is Michael, age 6, and behind Michael is Sarah, age 8 (going on 12...the girl is brilliant)!

While hard to see them, John and Michael are sitting on the front porch of this beautiful Georgetown landmark.

The photo to the right is taken from the side of the house. The backyard is behind the wrought iron fenceline; the front yard is to the left beyond the trees at the left edge of the picture.

We spent a lot of time enjoying the Georgetown community. We had dinner at a new Italian restaurant downtown. Mike and I walked the quaint streets and looked through antique shop windows. The weather was warm, breezy, humid, and somewhat rainy, but it didn't stop us from touring the historic streets of this charming town.

I experienced one new adventure...something I'd never seen nor done before! The children caught lightning bugs (aka fireflies) and secured them in their bug box! I'd never seen these flying creatures before...quite amazing!

Michael is on the left and John is on the right; the "bug box" is on the floor...this was the next morning after the lightning bugs had been incarcerated through the evening! They were set free! You might notice two injuries on these active little boys...a fall resulting in Michael's broken arm, and a spill for John which produced a very colorful black eye!

Speaking of bugs and "critters"...8 year old Sarah is a budding young scientist. Her interest mainly lies with insects, crawling creatures, snakes, crocodiles, and dinosaurs. She is an expert on most wildlife; instead of pink ruffles, dolls and glass figurines in her room, you'll find acquariums, hermit crabs, foliage, and insect collections. She graciously gave me her room for the weekend.

The photo on the right was taken next
to her prized possession...
quite a piece of taxidermy, wouldn't you say?

Last, but certainly not least, I post a photo of our lovely hostess, Sharon (Mike's daughter). She is an amazing woman...she keeps a lovely house sparkling clean, she home schools her children, she does the weekly gymnastics trips, the shopping, the laundry, and even manages to feed her domestic bent further by sewing her own wardrobe and those of her four children! Her sewing room is every seamstress's dream...I'll have one down the road again when I embrace retirement! Thank you, Sharon, for a terrific weekend!

I'm in love with a younger man!

2007-05-13T16:32:00.000-05:00

He's actually quite a bit younger than me...but I'm totally enamored with him....

My great-nephew, Victor Ventura....and his two best canine friends....see below...

The canines are Tillie on the left (white poodle) and Trixie on the right (grey poodle).

He is so amazing...I love him to pieces!

Pam caught up with us while out for a stroll.

Random Photos

2007-05-12T23:27:00.000-05:00

A few pictures taken at Mother's party this evening...and some family shots as well. See below!

Me, DeeDee and Mother

Didn't quite get this pose mastered!

Party Guests...

The Sisters!

Backyard Patio Party Progressive Dinner!

2007-05-12T14:51:00.000-05:00

Mother and Dee Dee remain active leaders in the Sonoma County chapter of the Lioness Club. Tonight is their club's progressive dinner, beginning with appetizers and beverage in Mom's backyard...which is so lovely. I had scrub brush and soapy water in hand this morning and washed all the lawn furniture which had collected dust and debris during the winter months. They are now sparkling clean and fresh for the guests. The yard looks so pretty; I couldn't help but post some photos of the beautiful green grass and colorful roses and blossoms. Mom does a great job of backyard gardening.

Catching up on lost time...as in 25 years plus!

2007-05-11T23:45:00.000-05:00

When I was in the fifth grade at Proctor Terrace Elementary School in my hometown in California, I was blessed with an amazing circle of little girlfriends! We did everything together...trick-or-treating on Halloween; birthday parties at each other's houses; blue birds and camp fire girls; trading "charms" at recess; going steady with boys during junior high; cheerleading and drill team; summer school and summer camp; first dates; first cars; first kisses...oh my gosh...such memories!

Tonight I rekindled four relationships with women I hadn't seen in 25-40 years...literally. Donna and Diane (fraternal twins), Peggy (their dear, beautiful mother of 83 years young), Eloise, my grade school and junior high friend, and my dearest sister, Pam. We shared hugs, and kisses, and laughter and tears as we shared our joys, disappointments, successes and regrets over the past 25-30 years. Peggy, Diane and Eloise had to leave after an hour. I was so caught up in the conversation that I forgot to snap their photos before they left....I'm so bummed! But, Pam did snap this photo of our hostess, Donna, and me! I treasure it! I've been invited to our 40th class reunion in August...and I really want to go...we'll see if I can make it happen.

Here's to the next twenty-five years, dearest girlfriends, with my heartfelt love and affection!

Angie and Donna, class of 1967

A Mother's Day Weekend Surprise!

2007-05-11T16:29:00.000-05:00

What a delight to surprise my mother yesterday afternoon when I unexpectedly appeared at her front door! She was overjoyed and extremely pleased that I had taken the time and resources to visit her this weekend.

A few photos below from lunch out today with the daughters and the great-grandson! More comments and photos to follow, but here's a sneak preview.

Lunch at a very popular 50's diner in neighboring Windsor. Nan, Nicole, Victor.
The matriarch herself, Nan Bardes, with eldest daughter, Angela.

Angela Bardes and Pamela Leazer, daughters #1 and #2 in descending order!

More family photos soon....stay tuned!

A Mother's Day Weekend Surprise!

2007-05-11T16:28:00.000-05:00

2007-05-09T19:49:00.000-05:00

Regal, Royal, and Enchanting!

I must admit that I was indeed captivated by the royal visit to the White House this week. I found myself caught up in the splendor of the planning, the glitter of the white tie and tails and floor-length evening gowns, the VIP guest list, and of course, the unparalleled, elite artistry of Itzac Perlman.

I met a most extraordinary married couple last night. He is 89 years young and she is 95 years young. Their names are Tom and Kathleen B. (Again, I am somewhat reluctant to publish last names without permission.) Tom and Kathleen have been married 38 years. Prior to their 38 years of marriage Kathleen was married twice before...yes, Tom is her third husband! Her first two husbands both died early in life, she's been a widow twice, and today she is blessed with a third husband of 38 years, a man who truly adores her for her grace, her dignity, her beauty and her charm.

Kathleen and Tom are Mike's mother and step-father. We met them in Dallas last night for an early Mother's Day dinner. When we arrived at El Fenix restaurant, we found them seated side-by-side at the table, enjoying the company of their grandson (Mike's son), Allen. I recognized Kathleen right away from a photograph Mike had shown me on another occasion. But what astonished me so incredibly was her amazing physical beauty! Even though she suffers from macular degeneration (she only has peripheral vision), she has a carriage and confidence about herself that exudes the most amazing lovliness! She has a wrinkle-free face, beautiful white hair, creamy skin (no blemishes), and a stately, trim figure (even though she uses a walker). Her husband, Tom, is absolutely charming! A real tease (he and I had a great time together), he is a very intelligent man...staunch Republican, astute conversationalist, and very handsome! His adoring love for Kathleen was more than evident..."...we are a wonderful match for each other..." he says, "she's almost blind and I'm almost deaf; we compensate perfectly for each other"...he tells me as his arm rests on the back of her chair.

After dinner we visited them at their home in Dallas. They live off of Northwest Highway, just a few blocks from Hillcrest in a spectacular Retirement Village...more like a 5-star resort! Their condominium home is decorated southwestern due to having lived in Taos, NM for many years. I visited with Tom and Allen while Mike took his mother to the den where she sat in her chair and used a very high-powered, lighted magnifying glass to look at pictures that Mike had taken at a recent family reunion (Kathleen was wearing a striking bright red dress and jacket at the reunion...nothing frumpy for this Southern Belle). We visited together for about 45 minutes to an hour...and then dear Tom announced that it was bedtime! Our cue that it was time to leave so he could help Kathleen retire for the night.

Why have I spent blog time describing this? Well, one reason is that I've rarely witnessed a more loving, caring relationship between two seniors. We didn't have parents or grandparents who shared this kind of heartfelt affection and respect for each other, therefore I missed out on observing these treasured relationships. What a gift! And what an amazing testimony of what marriage should be, can be and actually is for many couples. My prayer for my family and for myself is that we might all look to Him each and every day, asking for wisdom and guidance in our own relationships, that they would be honorable and pleasing in His sight.

And so I end with this...Kathleen is so like Queen Elizabeth...stately, graceful, beautiful (much more beautiful than the Queen), revered, and charming! I am blessed to have met her and I hope I will see her again! And Tom is indeed her earthly King!

Oh....by the way.....we presented Kathleen with a gift of European Dark Chocolates for Mother's Day from a new little chocolate shop in Grapevine...so fitting for a proper southern senior!

2007-05-07T22:48:00.000-05:00

Aren't they handsome?

And they can sing and play great jazz music, too!

I had a wonderful time this evening with Mike...he took me to see The Four Freshmen at the Irving Arts Center, and that was after a great Tilapia dinner at my favorite seafood restaurant, Rockfish.

This great foursome pictured above sang songs from the 50's...most were very familiar, but some were new to me. The lyrics were beautiful...soft and romantic...endearing love stories sung in melodious harmony. There is nothing that comes close to live music! The horn player (he played Cornet tonight, versus trumpet) was very skilled; each of his solos reminded me so much of my father...tonight's music indeed reflected that of the famed handsome, Greek, Northern Californian trumpet player and musician of the 60's and 70's...my dearest Dad!

And having Mike as my date certainly added a warm sparkle to the evening. So Mike, if you're reading this, thanks for a great dinner, meaningful conversation, fun laughter, and terrific music! I'm looking forward to our next outing...

And the Arc Award Team Winners Are...

2007-04-28T13:59:00.000-05:00

Reinventing the Spanish Experience ...

I attended the first bi-annual Idearc Awards Celebration Gala yesterday afternoon and last night at the Westin Galleria in Dallas, TX. This was a HUGE deal for the nominees because we were setting a precedent for the rest of Company...first year winners and all. The theme for the evening therefore symbolized many "firsts" which happened in America and around the world. The televised webcast featured stories and video clips of famous people who made amazing first impressions with their work, inventions, philosophies...examples cited were Neil Armstrong, Lance Armstrong, Madame Curie, the Beatles...just to mention a few of the many names highlighted.

Our team, "Reinventing the Spanish Experience", won the first level award, the Sparc Award, and were eligible for the second level award, the Arc Award. We were the last Arc Award winners announced during the telecast, so we were getting a little nervous thinking that maybe our project was not as great as we may have thought! But we did win...and along with the win comes cash and trophies. Yay! Just to give you an idea of the project...we launched a new Verizon Yellow Pages product...a directory...entirely in the Spanish language, targeted to the Hispanic populations in the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex. We hired bilingual sales reps, bilingual Division Sales Managers, and bilingual General Sales Managers. I assisted with three training classes (in addition to managing my Customer Care Call Center), and also became heavily involved in changing the Customer Call Center agent options to include bilingual Customer Service representatives. That meant I had to do some creative hiring to manage our call tree option, "para espanol, oprima numero dos". So, when the team award nomination was submitted, I was very happy to be on the team slate. A true honor and privilege.

After the Awards telecast, we had some free time before the "red carpet" cocktail reception and dinner, speaker and live music and dancing. My escort for the evening was a very wonderful man from Dallas, Michael B. (purposefully omitting last name on the blog) . Michael and I met about five weeks ago, and we dated four times prior to the Idearc event. I was delighted when he agreed to be my guest for the evening. I've posted a couple of photos....they didn't turn out very well; I think because of the spotlights and glitter in the room:

So much fun to dress up in "after five" apparel; yes, I'm a Diva!

This one didn't turn out so well, but I posted it anyway.

Our amazing guest speaker, Dr. Jerry M. Linenger, US Astronaut who was the first American astronaut to board the Russian Space Station Mir. His son, John, is pictured in the center.

Lookout Mountain, Tennessee

2007-04-23T15:14:00.000-05:00

The Mother/Daughter reunion...

I love having adult children! While they always remain your son and daughters, they also become your friends in an entirely new light. And when they move halfway across the country, they give you this wonderful opportunity called....TRAVEL!!! And I'm lovin' it!

I'm in "the Nooga" enjoying 7 days with dearest Sarah. Upon arrival we did some quick grocery shopping and then came home long enough to change clothes and attend the Chattanooga Symphony Orchestra's final season concert, and it was terrific. The musicians were really quite good, and of course, one violinist stood out above all others....ahem...ahem... One of my favorite piano solos, Rhapsody on a theme of Paganini, was featured, and the pianist was magnificent. A light dinner afterwards at "The Meeting Place" with beautiful, handsome young people...I felt youthful again, and loved every minute of the lively chatter and laughter.

Can Lookout Mountain ever be more beautiful than in the spring? My walks on the charming country roads (Gnome Road, Peter Pan Way, Fairy Trail, Fleetwood Drive) were nothing short of exhilarating. The air was clean and cool, the streets were immaculate, the architecture of the homes and churches was indescribable (to me, anyway). I passed many walkers...sweet older retired couples walking hand-in-hand, obviously still very much in love after many years of marriage. Some had their adorable little dogs in tow, leashed and happily trotting along in front of their masters.

I spent 4 hours on Saturday afternoon listening to Sarah rehearse her faculty recital with her accompanist. I was mesmerized... It's hard to describe the joy I felt deep within just listening to her perform these amazing pieces of music with such passion and accomplishment. I was wiping tears from my cheeks...and this was just a rehearsal! I'm so excited for the actual recital on Tuesday night; I know it will be magnificent, and I wish all of us who know her talent and love her gift could be there to celebrate with her.

Well, it's now Thursday evening, April 26th, and I'm back home in Texas. I've unpacked my bags, downloaded my photos and prepared this short blog. To conclude my mini vacation blog...the recital was awesome! The next day, while Sarah was busy with students, I treated myself to a 90-minute deep tissue, full body massage. See Sarah's blog for a description of this amazing indulgence. Anyway, I felt like a new woman when I was done. Afterwards, Sarah took me to dinner, and we finished the evening watching "The Pursuit of Happyness" before we turned in for the evening.

A few more photos for you to enjoy, and then another blog in a few days. Tomorrow I attend the Idearc Media Corporation bi-annual awards celebration. I was nominated for a business award along with some colleagues, and I'll be honored tomorrow along with several other winners across the country. There are two more levels of awards which will be announced tomorrow; we are hopeful that our team will elevate at least one more level, if not all the way to the top. There are some prize dollars involved....which is always nice! Our event is at the Westin Galleria, and it starts at 1:00 p.m. with a Webcast announcing the winners. Then an evening reception, dinner and speaker, and dancing! Should be a great evening. I'll be escorted by a very nice gentleman that I've recently met, and we're both looking forward to the event. Stay tuned for future posts!

This home is amazing; I walked by it frequently during my stay on Lookout Mountain.

2007-04-07T18:47:00.000-05:00

I participated in an amazing experience today...and I'll do it again...many times over!

I did the "Walk for the Cure"... a 3.2 mile walk in support of Breast Cancer Research. My Curves Club banded together with other clubs across Tarrant County and we walked the race route together. There were more than 18,000 entrants...I was number 15,322! We had our Vendor Tent at the event; we had a HUGE team photo taken; and we probably got some great press as well! I'm looking forward to watching the news later tonight.

We met at 6:30 a.m. at our Curves location. We then car-pooled to Fort Worth, Sundance Square where the race began. It was so festive! Balloon banners at the starting line and at the finish line. Many different businesses and organizations sponsored their employees, and so there were T-shirts of varied colors everywhere representing the Komen Foundation and the specific business support groups who raised money for the foundation. For example, my T-shirt says "Curves Walks for the Cure". I'll post photos as soon as I get them; unfortunately I did not take my own camera so I'm waiting upon my friends to send me theirs.

Curves has been my best monthly investment of time and money. Not only has the exercise program benefitted me in terms of weight loss, weight control and body fat loss, it has also given me a new circle of women friends! I reached out to a very nice gal...my age...who had been coming for a few months. I asked her to walk the race as my partner. So, we met...she drove...and we spent 3 hours getting acquainted while we walked the route. She's a great lady! Her name is Gaye, she's a born-again Christian, has had some similar life experiences as me, and I really, really enjoyed her company! I'm so thankful for this new friend.

After the race, Curves hosted a Mimosa Brunch at the club! So much fun! Great food, lots of laughter, some tears as we toasted our Curves Breast cancer survivors...really a wonderfully rewarding morning.

Well, the most humorous part of the day was the weather! It was freezing...literally!! Low 30's in temperature...and it actually snowed the last leg of the race. I'm just now thawing out, and it's 7:00 p.m. The race was at 8:00 a.m.! But...I'd do it again!

Tomorrow is Easter Sunday, and to all of my readers...family and friends...I wish you a most blessed day of worship and remembrance...He has Risen! He has risen, indeed!

2007-04-01T13:49:00.001-05:00

Mini Palm Trees in my front and back yards????

Actually, these are weeds, but they look like mini palm trees, or very anemic heads of lettuce!

I return from Florida after a week of business meetings to an unbelievable downpour of rain...gushing water flooding my front and back yards. Oh good, I say to myself as I'm circling the airport hoping to land safely...maybe all this rain will help my grass to grow.

My dearest best friend, Debra, had informed me that organic gardening is the best thing I can do for the earth, for myself, and for my health. And so...I had purchased 40 pounds of corn gluten meal, borrowed back the spreader I gave to Dave and Karen, and spent a few hours sprinkling these stinky pellets all over my front and back yard a week ago before I left for Florida. Potential results....retard additional weed growth....key word here is "additional".

So, I left for a week of business headed for the beautiful blue skies, sunny temperate climate of St. Petersburg, Florida, with the hope that when I return to Texas, my grass will be sprouting and weeds will be "retarded". Ha Ha Ha ha ha ha hee hee hee.....I'm so overwhelmed....frown....

Instead of the "hay" trailers that I hoped would yield St. Augustine grass, I find 6-10" "palm tree" weeds everywhere. Debra....we need to talk!

So, plan B. I commit to 3 hours on Saturday and 3 hours on Sunday (as in today) pulling "palm trees" from what might someday yeild....grass/lawn...whatever! And here is a sample of what it looks like after 6 hours of pulling weeds...(I have tons more to pull, trust me...)

Oops, looks like I missed a couple. And this poor lawn looks like a man's head who is slowly but surely losing his hair... oh groan....again!

Okay...photos above are the backyard. Now for the front yard. I had some irrigation/drainage work done by an engineer shortly after I moved in. The contractors had dug some gulleys in my front yard to place some drainage pipe. Of course there was no guarantee that the "grass" (ha ha ha ha ha) would grow back. BUT...the palm trees had no problems surfacing!!! I've pulled several of them...three hours worth of "several"...but my optimism is waning to say the least...

You can see the "gulleys" that the engineers trenched to install additional drainage lines. The green that you see is part lawn, part crab grass, weeds, etc. I have some serious decisions to male. The neighbors yards look great; my yards appear to have been neglected something terrible. That's the chance one takes when purchasing a home in the middle of winter.

The photo to the left shows a section of the backyard that is adjacent to my master bedroom window. I love looking out the windows and seeing the shrubs and the huge tree. It does need some pruning...I certainly can't do that, but will find someone who can.

So...out of necessity, I'm learning to do some gardening. Maybe I'll even grow to like it. As Walt can tell you, I've never been one to get dirt underneath my fingernails. I did buy some gardening gloves, and I have a few little spades and trowels, and I'm doing okay so far. Debra is laughing her heart out at me...but girlfriend laughter is a gift, and I'm enjoying it immensely.

Before I close this little "green blog"...let me wish each of my readers a blessed Ressurection Celebration. Jesus is the reason for the season...not eggs, not flowers, not lilies, not bunny rabbits...but our Savior whose blood was shed for our sins and for our salvation, and whose resurrection is why we have eternal life in Him. Praise HIS name!

2007-03-10T23:37:00.000-06:00

Imagine The Beatles playing in concert with a symphony orchestra! What would that have sounded like?

http://www.classicalmysterytour.com/main/index.htm

Well...I heard it tonight...and it was nothing short of spectacular! The performers are pictured above...they sound JUST LIKE John, Paul George and Ringo, and they look like them, too. They were nothing short of amazing...vocally, instrumentally, physically...and the Morton Meyerson Symphony Center was almost sold out! The encore numbers brought the spectators to their feet, arms swaying; cell phones lit and moving to the beat of the music; DSO musicians dancing to "Twist and Shout" on stage...for real!! (No, Sarah...Sloman wasn't one of them; neither was Kitzman nor Atkins...but there were 4 violinists rockin' and rollin' on stage...)

This was an amazing experience; I found myself mouthing the words to almost all of the performed songs...and a couple of times I even found myself choked-up from the nostalgia of it all. The 60's and 70's were truly amazing decades. I'm so pleased I was a part of it all...

2007-02-27T22:56:00.001-06:00

A lovely, unexpected springtime gift....

When I purchased my little cottage in the coldest, wettest streak of winter, I had no idea what my barren trees would look like come springtime. Imagine my joy when this gorgeous burst of seasonal change appeared in my front yard...and I have two of them! The view is from my front porch...

2007-02-27T22:37:00.000-06:00

A Backwards View of Angie's Cottage!!

My intention was to have these photos posted in reverse order; well, it didn't publish as I had expected. So, if you want to start from the beginning, scroll down and "read upwards" to see the series in order!

....the guest bathroom...a good start, but I'm not quite finished yet. Need some artwork and some candles/flowers, etc.

I wanted some nice color...love the shades in the shower curtain.

Yes, I took a picture of the tub, with the "stool" in the background.
Older countertops, but not in bad shape.

2007-02-27T22:30:00.000-06:00

Part Three of "Settling In"...
I can't help it if I'm not a web master/mistress!!
A word of explanation...I tried to capture the colorful texture of the kitchen walls and the faux paint glaze. I also wanted to show off the terrific countertops that were recently installed. I hope the photos do justice...

2007-02-27T22:25:00.000-06:00

OOPS....Part One of "Settling In" appears below this post (which is Part Two of "Settling In")

I like the openness of this little house; it's fun to look into the kitchen from the

dining room and vice versa, from the dining room to the kitchen.
Great window above the kitchen sink...the black sink is really cool!
The kitchen is small, but very nicely arranged for space conservation.
Cute little wine rack above the refrigerator.
This view is from the hallway entrance to the kitchen.

2007-02-27T22:20:00.000-06:00

New Year -- New Home! Settling in....

Here are a few pics. I'll do separate posts to accommodate all the photos.

It's coming along...slow but sure!

The front of my "cottage"...it's still winter, so no grass!

Walk in the front door and enter to your left; you'll
see the living room and the dining room...
this is a circular floor plan...I love it!

The purchasers of my previous home bought my
living room furniture; I bought this new, smaller
ensemble. I'm really, really enjoying it!

Isn't this a terrific color combination?!

2007-01-27T22:23:00.000-06:00

I'll be home for Christmas...if only in my dreams...

Oh wait a minute...that was last month! I'm a little late posting my Christmas memories. I must blame it on not finding the cord that downloads from my camera to the computer. The last Christmas at Willowood Drive...sniff, sniff...

Walking in the front door...

The beautiful Vendsel sisters...

Christmas table decor!

Mother and daughters

Where are Michael and Rachel? I know I took photos...but I'm not finding them on the disk? Strange....
But I did find a few more of the Norvell clan, and Grandma Nan...oh, and the scholars are discussing important issues.

Dave
Grandma Mary

Dave and Karen

Michael and Walter

We had a marvelous time together, celebrating on the 26th of December so that the married family members could have time with their spouse's family. It was wonderful to spend one last holiday at Willowood Drive...

2007-01-18T22:12:00.000-06:00

Blog Drought!

To my w0nderful friends and family....

Life has been a bit frenzied during December and January! I've celebrated Christmas, sold my home, bought another home, entertained family from coast to coast during the holidays, welcomed the new year, packed all my belongings, moved all my belongings, unpacked all my belongings...and now I'm trying to get settled in to my new environment. Photos of my "Angie Cottage" coming soon....as soon as I find/unpack the computer cord to my digital camera!

Looking forward to sharing more details of what's new in '07!

Love....Me!

2006-11-26T16:49:00.000-06:00

From Birth-Day to Turkey-Day!

November 17th marked an unbelievable 57 years for me! I do believe I don't look it...but what does 57 look like? Wrinkles? I have a few. Grey hair...I have a few of those, too, but they are well-disguised. A bulging middle...well, I have a little "biscuit" at the waistline, but it is small and I'm grateful. Aches and pains? I have a few of those, too, but Aleve is wonderful medicine! I am a middle-aged woman, healthy, enthusiastic, fun-loving, god-fearing, and blessed beyond measure. Thanks be to God!

Office decorations compliments of my amazing employees!

Karen surprised me at work with a dozen beautiful yellow roses!

Turkey Day arrived with all it's 80-degree weather splendor in North Texas! The Vendsels, the Norvells and this 57-year old Greek Diva went walking for miles while the turkey was roasting. Then we indulged in our favorite foods: Roast Turkey, stuffing and gravy; cranberried yams; mashed potatoes; fresh steamed green beans; hard crusted french bread and homemade pumpkin pie on a flaky butter crust...my best ever! This was the first "married Thanksgiving" for Dave and Karen Norvell; so Karen thoughtfully telephoned her mother-in-law for a Norvell traditional recipe on Thanksgiving day...deviled eggs.

Dave loves the dark meat!

The happy siblings!

2006-10-23T20:34:00.000-05:00

Southern California, continued.....this is Part 2!

Part 1 is posted beneath this one...I'm not the best webmistress!

Isn't this the most beautiful coastline scene?

Okay, I said we made a stop before we returned to Deb's house for a barbecue, salad, fresh corn on the cob and garlic bread....where was this stop....and why?

Neptune's Cove....for a fresh crab, boiled on the spot, and a bottle of beer while we wait...yes, it's Sarah....but she wasn't the only one.....see below!

This day was a delight! But it was only one of three nights and 2 days we spent in the splendor of the southern California landscape. We shopped til we dropped; we wined and dined at Las Posas Country Club; we played with adorable Winston, Debbie's playful pooch (Sarah will post those pics); we drove the Pacific Coast Highway and dined on wonderful halibut; we saw mansions galore (Cher's was only one of several); and we laughed, drank California vineyard wines, talked, shared stories, watched movies, and enjoyed being women! Thank you, Deb...for a wonderful "girls' weekend out". And Sarah...I'll let the readers access your Blog for an update on USC, Santa Monica, the PCA church plant...and all the rest!

I love you both....thank you tons for everything! Let's do it again soon!

2006-10-22T18:54:00.000-05:00

California Dreaming...I've got you on my mind!

A weekend with Aunt Debbie aka Sister Deb

...and we had an absolute blast!

Angie (left) and Debbie (right) listening to the waves, loving the sand!

Angie embracing the waves.

Debbie dodging the waves, wind in her hair!

The waves are going to get me! Can I run fast enough? See below!

OOOPS! I got splashed on my back side!

But, it dried and we made a stop before we went back to Deb's house.

2006-09-27T23:15:00.000-05:00

My house.....is a very, very, very nice house...
(I think this was a Beatles song...yes? ...no?)

As I look forward to this new season of my life, I'm contemplating some significant changes...like a different home. A home that I can enjoy as a single, empty-nester, yet one that will attract and welcome my treasured family loved-ones and dear friends when they come to visit. And so, the small sign you see in front strip of lawn by the sidewalk, advertises the fact that this house is for sale.
I've raised three children in this house for the past 17 years. We've weathered two new roofs, three dogs, plenty of spills on the carpet, a few holes in closet doors, hornets in the family room, a broken window, hail storms, lightening storms, hot summers, icy winters, lots of birthday parties, proms, homecomings, engagements, weddings, heartbreaks, divorce, prayer and thanksgiving, joyful holiday seasons, Bible Studies, oh...and so much more! Like college sleep-overs, Delti Chi Rho gatherings, tears over the death of a young college co-ed, preparations for travels overseas, prayers for missionary trips, lots of violin recital rehearsals and lessons, angst over a 4-week course at Oxford University, late night hours at the computer doing homework and compiling college and graduate school essays.

Early morning coffee and banana bread
at the kitchen table; the aroma of Thanksgiving
turkey wafting through the house
from the kitchen; card games and
Scrabble; long conversations; laughter
and tears...and so much more.

Banana bread, chocolate chip cookies, french toast, Belgian waffles, Roast Lamb Greek Style with potatoes and carrots, spinach and mushroom quiche and many, many birthday cakes. Oh, did I mention i'Fratelli pizza? Kendall Jackson Chardonnay? And do you remember the Pizza Hut pizza every pay day?

And then, of course, there are the heartaches that always exist within family dyanmics...death, divorce, feelings of abandonment, heartbreak, relationship strains and struggles, spritual battles, financial losses, job losses, job gains, church politics, weight gains (hee hee), competitive loss (Fillies, violin concerto competitions, graduate school denials), broken love lives...just to mention a few.

But...we Vendsels and Bardes's hung in there! We prayed for each other, celebrateted each other, cried for each other, and praised each other (we even fought with each other) within the walls of this "very, very, very nice house"...and I shall miss it sorely!

But I rejoice in my God upon every remembrance of this "very, very, very nice house"...and I pray that all the lessons learned, all the tears shed, all the laughter heard will continue within these walls for the new inhabitants down the line...Bless this "very, very, very nice house" dearest Father and Lord Jesus Christ, and those who will dwell within these walls down the line.

2006-09-27T22:37:00.000-05:00

Post Script.....

Addendum to my previous post...don't know why the photos are posting now and wouldn't when I created the blog!

I'm the pale one! My tanned friend Karen absorbs the rays beautifully!

Next to the waterfall that flows into the pool. If I sat on the edge of the pool, I could see the deer grazing just beyond their fence line...

Okay family and friends...no more laughing! I know I'm not Goldie Hawn or Susan Sarandan...I don't have their budgets for plastic surgeons and personal trainers, either!!!

2006-08-27T22:39:00.000-05:00

A weekend retreat with my dear friends....Karen and Bill.....from Scottish flair to San Antonio flavors!

I had a splendid weekend staying with my wonderful friends, Karen and Bill. Karen and I were colleagues together when I managed the training department for Verizon. I left the department for my new job in 2002; she left the department the same time for her new job, which resulted in a move to San Antonio.

I was blessed with warm hospitality at their five acre home in the hills of San Antonio. Yes, there are hills...and deer! A family of six deer who visited Bill's feeding site every evening and morning...we sat by the pool in lawn chairs and watched them cautiously approach the feed; they would remain there until we got up to move around, then they would scamper back among the oak trees. Such beautiful animals!

Karen fixed wonderful breakfasts on Saturday and Sunday; we exercised together, walked their five acres, visited a brand new shopping mall, ate dinner at my favorite Riverwalk restaurant (Boudro's), swam in the lovely salt-water pool, and played several hands of canasta. I'm so thrilled they are moving back to Dallas; I look forward to spending more time with both of them.

Bill is a native of Scotland; speaks with the Scottish brogue; is charming beyond measure, and has wonderful stories to tell. Between the Scottish flair of their home, and the beauty of their San Antonian home, I had a marvelous time!

I'm trying to post photos...not having the best of success. I'll continue trying.

2006-08-20T16:03:00.000-05:00

Sizzle! Sizzle!
Translation: It's "Hotter than Hades" in Texas these days...

How does one beat the heat when the average temperature for the past 33 consecutive days has averaged between 100 and 106 degrees. This morning at 9:30 a.m. my car temperature (inside the garage, mind you) registerd a mere 92 degrees. Thank God for air conditioning....and I'm NOT using the Lord's name in vain here.

My blog has been experiencing drought again...I guess I could liken it to our dry conditions in the metroplex. I've found it emotionally draining to write creatively during a personal time period of daily adjustment, unpredictable upheavals, professional disapointments, marital status change, financial concerns, church uncertainties...just to mention but a few of the circumstances absorbing my life right now. I'll tacke a couple now and others to follow.

Let's start with marital status. On July 26th I was in court with my attorney (a second occurrence in my lifetime) for a brief 5 minute appearance before the judge, upon when finished, I had a document in hand granting me my divorce and my reclaimed maiden name. Emotions I experienced during that brief period of time: Sadness, disbelief, relief, liberation, disappointment, resolve, energy, worry, fear, faith, confidence, uncertainty...I could name many more, but these came so quickly and traversed from one to the other throughout the remainder of the day. And they continue, almost a month later, but with a personal renewed strength of hope in a God who comforts, protects, cherishes, provides, and loves...even in moments when I least expect it; or perhaps I should say even in moments when I forget His never-ceasing acts of grace,love and compassion. I am experiencing happiness, and an energized spirit of adventure as I carefully, and prayerfully plan my future as a single woman.

Unpredictable upheavals! Some very small in the big scheme of things; some insurmountable...all within appropriate context, however. Examples: Separating property...his, mine, and ours. What's fair? What's not? What's mine? What's not? What's his? What's not? What's important? What's not? What's greedy? What's not? What's giving? What's not? What's compassionate? What's not? What's selfish? What's not? And while we came to a mutual agreement on separation of money and property...it is tumultuos from an emotional standpoint to release oneself from what matters versus what doesn't, from what is truly righteous behavior versus what is not. Again, in moments when I least expect it, God reminds me of where my true devotion must be directed; not in worldy goods and money, but in Him.

Daily adjustments. I've assumed all routine responsibilities once shared with my ex-husband. While somewhat daunting at first, I'm enjoying the process of reorganizing my life, my home, my personal finances, etc. I've embraced some new ways of doing things...paying bills online, for example. I've also come to realize that I simply cannot do everything myself. So I find myself paying for my lawns to be cut and maintained, and asking small favors of my son-in-law who lives close by. I'm such an "I can do it all" person, and so very independent! Why is is so difficult for me to ask for help when I so love to give help and assist others...Go figure! Good news: I've only forgotten to take the garbage out a couple of times. Bad news: I still haven't figured out how to re-set the sprinkler system and am turning on the system manually.

Okay...More on the changes I'm encountering on my next blog.

I'll end by saying I'm very engaged with the women friends in my life. Girlfriends are priceless! And we love to hang out together. I'm blessed to have my Christian girlfriends, my non-Christian girlfriends, and my co-worker girlfriends. These three different circles of friends have afforded me many social opportunites over the past few months. Numerous lunches out; a Sunday afternoon theatre treat; movies and dinner; I was even a personal shopper for a day! The one truly entertaining splurge was dinner at Riccardi's in the Quadrangle, and then "The Full Monty" at Theatre Three. Such fun for nine women enjoying "Ladies Night Out"...dinner was amazing and the play was hysterically funny, yet poignant. Raucous laughter, great music, excellent actors...and yes...the full monty (very discreetly accomplished, I might add).

Last, but not least....some of you have asked about my IKEA experience. You'll have to wait for the next blog!

2006-07-23T00:27:00.000-05:00

Mug Shot...

I'm attempting to learn how to download a photo from my digital camera to the computer and then to my profile. More experimentation tomorrow....my brain needs some sleep; my user skills need honing; my frustration level needs calming!!!

2006-07-15T10:59:00.000-05:00

Drought Conditions prevail...

Not only in terms of water, and lack of rainfall, but also in terms of blog postings on my site. Yesterday my dearest youngest daughter reminded me that blogs are to be frequently updated, without 3 month interludes in between. So, on this extremely hot Saturday morning (already approaching 100 degrees outside), I am sipping my coffee and posting the latest of my thoughts and adventures.

So....what has been happening in my life since I returned from Longwood Gardens, Philadelphia and Chattanooga?

I enjoyed three wonderful weeks of companionship with middle child, Sarah, who was teaching and coaching a strings workshop for The Insitute for Strings at SMU. I attended two concerts at the end of the institute, one in which Sarah performed with a quartet of her longtime music buddies, and a second which featured her own students' quartet which she coached. So, I ask this question...does a mother EVER stop glowing with pride? The answer is..."no"... I loved hearing Sarah perform. I so miss her music...having her at home practicing on a regular basis was a delight, not to mention the superb chamber music concert.

Sarah's little students were amazing....strong bow arms, great sound, confident expression! She was proud of them and I was hollering my "bravos" from the audience as they took their bows. I'd name the piece they played (it was
Telemann) but I don't have the program in front of me.

After the institue ended, and Sarah was packing for her next summer commitment in New Hampshire, we decided to "splurge" and do some shopping and playing around the metroplex. That included movies (The DaVinci Code....yes, we liked it very much, and it did NOT affect our personal faith and doctrinal stand), dinners and lunches, and.............SHOPPING! We totally enjoyed the new array of store offerings in the expanded Soutlhlake area. My favorite stops were Talbots Petites and Ann Taylor Loft. Sarah's favorite stop was Black and White.

Next, I tearfully bid Sarah adieu as she packed her Alero and drove back to Chattanooga, only to fly to New Hampshire a few days later. But...I had much busy-ness ahead of me. IKEA furniture to assemble (darling youngest daughter is helping me...still have much to do....this story for a separate blog); garage to clean; junk to purge; weeds to destroy; plumbing fixtures to repair/replace; and business trips.

On June 21st, I was in Portland, Oregon enjoying a wonderfully beautiful climate on the banks of the Willamette River. I was making presentations at a Company event (I did an amazing job...so pleased with myself); and then I did some visiting with very dear friends from the late 70's and early 80's. What a joy and blessing to rekindle previous Christian relationships. The ties that bind the Christian hearts truly last forever, despite time and distance. I love you all...Mary Ann, Paul and Ruthie, Joe and Kathy, Al and Miriam, and dearest Sue (I loved spending the day with you).

Three days of work back at home, and then off again on an airplane. This time I surprised my adorable, petite little mother by secretly appearing at my sisters house in Southern California for Mom's 78th birthday celebration. She was tickled to death, had no idea I was coming, and couldn't believe that my sisters and I could pull off this kind of surprise! Brother-in-law, Tracy, almost blew it when he told Mom that he "....cleared out part of the guest room closet for you and Angie..." but Mom didn't have her hearing aids in so she missed that blooper! Ha!

Debbie and Tracy have a beautiful home; so typical of Southern California. We had coffee on the patio every morning, enjoyed the dogs - Winston, Tillie, and Trixie - ate amazing food and drank the best of Southern California wines. Staying at Deb and Tracy's is the best resort experience in the world. Their backyard is gorgeous...and their outdoor furnishings comfortable and lovely. I'm going back as often as the invitation is open to me!

Mom, Me, and party guests pictured below.

Lovely sister, Debbie, and affectionate Winston

Mom's Party guests...Debbie on the left of Mom and i'm on her right. Mom's in pink!

Hard to see all the lovliness of Deb's backyard...but this is the patio area (it's dark outside)

One of several warm, comfy sitting areas in the backyard. Tillie is on Mom's right; Trixie on her left.

And, of course, Debbie is sitting next to her, too!

And now home again, back to work, exploring new opportunities for career advancement, and enjoying life.

Lots more to share....but I'll save it for the next post... and it will be sooner rather than later!

Love to all of my faithful friends, family and readers!

2006-05-27T19:45:00.000-05:00

Longwood Gardens...An amazing combination of God's handiwork and Man's creativity!

Today I visited the beautiful Longwood Gardens just outside of Chads Ford, Pennsylvania, and close to the Delaware border. These Gardens were the dwelling place of the famous Pierre du Pont...yes, the duPont that is still the industrial mega giant today (still carrying the same company logo from the early 1900's).

This 1600 acre vista was transformed by du Pont into the most beautiful botanical garden and horticultural mecca in the country. It is internationally well-known, and is visited by tourists and dignitaries world-wide. I'm posting some snapshots taken with my relic camera (I must buy a digital camera...it's now a need and not a desire!!!)...the photos turned out better than expected.

Hydrangeas! My most favorite of all garden flowers...I bought myself one for Mother's Day and put it outside....the next day the blossoms were crispy....woe is me; I must take a class! These, however, are superior beauties!

Pansies on the left and orchids on the right; these were observed in the amazing covered conservatory on the grounds of the duPont estate.

Rachel and Angie (left photo) in front of the water gardens

Picture to the right...Angie standing next to one of hundreds of beautiful fuschia bushes. This one was growing from the grounds; several were hanging from the conservatory ceilings.

The conservatory on the left (and some of the hanging fuschias); the water show on the right. Sometimes the water sprays were higher than the stand of trees behind the fountains.

My hosts and hostesses for the day! Left to right, Mindy and Brandon W, Rachel and Michael V.

They are standing just to the right of the tower that chimes every hour, quarter-hour and half-hour.

Standing in front of the Topiary Gardens...amazing artwork!

An additional view of the topiary beauty is pictured below.

It's difficult to see....but that's a dog in the middle...a Scotty Dog!! A close-up is printed below.

Left...a brief stop for "sustenance" in the form of apple-blueberry crisp a la mode!

This was an amazing field trip! We spent over five hours touring the gardens, soaking in some clean air and sunshine, and admiring the colorful array of flora and fauna! More comments about my marvelous vacation on my next post.

2006-05-25T21:26:00.000-05:00

It's All in the Family!

I find myself in the midst of extreme motherly pride! I've been on vacation and I'm having a marvelous time reveling in the success of all my children. Today Mr. and Mrs. Michael Vendsel received their Masters of Arts Degree in Religion from Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Yesterday the lovable Mike and Rachel also celebrated their third wedding anniversary. Congratulations to these marvelous young adults.

Two days ago, I attended the Spring Recital for the students of Sarah Vendsel, at Caduk Conservatory on the campus of the University of Tennessee, Chattanooga, TN. I was blessed to meet the grateful parents of many aspiring young musicians...Mothers and Dads were very thankful to have their children under the tutelage of Sarah.

On Mother's Day a week ago, I was blessed to spend the afternoon with Mr. and Mrs. David Norvell (daughter and son-in-law) who were also celebrating 8 weeks of marriage...aren't they spendid in their horse-drawn carriage?

And now, I look forward to the remainder of my escape from routine. I'll be out and about until May 31st. More reports and pictures to come. In the meantime, here are a couple more photos taken yesterday and today while in the beautiful Jenkintown suburb of Philadelphia.

And this last shot is a miscellaneous one....breakfast at The Gaylord Texan the morning after Karen and Dave's wedding. Angie, Dee Dee, Sarah and Nan...left to right, of course!

2006-05-14T11:20:00.000-05:00

Mother's Day 2006

I awoke this morning to a sermon by Skip Ryan on the radio. What a glorious way to start a Mother's Day Sunday. He spoke on believing in the resurrection. I still say I've never heard a more gifted speaker in this age.

Then I read my dear cards from Mike, Rachel and Sarah. I cried, laughed, and then cried again! I realize that all mothers must feel amazingly blessed, but I truly believe God has graced me with the most incredible children! I love having adult children...it's so wonderful to reflect back through their growing years...wondering what they would become, how they would face life's struggles, where they would live, who they would marry, what they would do with the gospel, how they would celebrate life's victories and learn through life's disappointments. They've all had their fair measure of each of these scenarios...and they've embraced them with trust, faith, sometimes tears and laughter, but truly with a committed heart and spirit. I love my children. I'm thankful to God for their maturity, their willingness to continue learning from those that have been placed in their circle of friends and acquaintances, for their devotion and love to me. I am truly honored; I am truly blessed....and I'm truly in tears again as I reflect on these amazing young adults!

Dave and Karen come today to take me to lunch. We will laugh together, share stories, eat fun food, and delight in each other's company. Mike, Rachel and Sarah...you will be with us in spirit! And I'll be with you in another week or so!

Thank you, Lord, for the incredible gift of offspring...the most treasured gift aside from your Son, Jesus Christ.

2006-04-24T20:21:00.000-05:00

The Angela Adventures

Seasons of Life...sweet? salty? bitter? bittersweet?

Bittersweet...an interesting word. As a flavor, it could be likened to unsweetened chocolate stirred in a cup of Starbucks Verona blend. As an emotion, it can be calming, settling, peaceful, yet seasoned with a twinge of nervous, gastrointestinal distress. Yes...that's me right now...experiencing a bittersweet season of my life.

So, who am I right now? Empty Nester. Separated (marital status). Boss. Friend. Award-winning employee. Daughter. Sister. Mother. Ex-wife. Neighor. Auntie. Grandmother wanna-be. Stepmother-sort of. Yet, with all of these attributes, I'm embracing the bittersweet peace the most. I've made some difficult, yet brave decisions of late. I've turned my attentions to me...taking care of me...listening to my inner voices...yet still listening to God and watchful of those around me. Sometimes the voices clash; sometimes they meld together; other times they are complementary to each other. Bittersweet peace...for me it's a life-decision that has liberated me from ties that were choking me, stressing me, hurting me, weighting me down, preventing me from delighting in the moment. For me, it's a life-decision that has enabled me to breathe fresh air, enjoy simple things in life, cherish solitude, and rest at ease. And I've also paid closer attention to the promptings of His Holy Spirit. Some of His promptings are confirming; others are questioning. And so...the bittersweet moments of this season of my life.

More later...

2006-04-02T21:13:00.000-05:00

The Angela Adventures

Blog Drought!

So much going on in my life right now. So many emotions. So many reflections. So much to consider. So difficult to sort. So hard to grasp. So exhausting to talk about. So little time; so much to do. So easy to forget that He is there through it all... Yet knowing that is indeed my comfort.

Much more later...

2006-02-20T00:00:00.000-06:00

The Angela Adventures

Reflections of a Mother...

More than half of my life is over, and as I look back, I can truly say that despite mistakes I've made and words I wish I had never spoken, I feel so very blessed by the fruits of my labors. Especially three pieces of priceless fruit named Michael, Sarah and Karen.

I heard a sermon once by the pastor of Park Cities Presbyterian Church, Dr. Skip Ryan. He's probably the most gifted, most eloquent speaker I've ever been blessed to hear. I love his delivery; I love his practicality; I love the way God speaks through him to pierce my heart! Anyway...he was talking about making memories, and clinging to good times with family and friends, and always looking for the next major "moment" of celebration. We human beings are continually searching and grasping for a hold onto that perfect moment before leaving this earth...not realizing that the perfect moment comes when we see Him face-to-face. The perfect home; the perfect mate; the perfect job; the perfect children; the perfect social contribution..etcetera, etcetera. Skip's words are so very true...and I find that I, too, look forward to the next "moment" in my own life.

I thought life was "perfect" when Mike married Rachel. I remember watching them walk down the aisle, share their vows of love and commitment, and then begin their young lives together. That was a "moment". I then remember Sarah suffering from a huge "life disappointment" and recovering gracefully through the sustaining love of Christ; and then receiving a Master's Degree and a job that only He could mysteriously and miraculously provide. That was another "moment". And now, I watch my youngest, Karen, prepare for her own marriage to an amazing young Christian man who I already love as a future son-in-law, and who absolutely adores my daughter...they walk their aisle in 19 days...this will be another "moment".

Skip went on to further say that one "moment" leads to another and another and another, and that as humans, we are never truly fulfilled by these "moments" and that we plan for more and more, hoping that one day we can sigh and look backwards and nod with a sweet smile of satisfaction that says..."okay, now I can rest in the joy of my memories and look forward to my future with Him". Well...obviously there was much more depth to the meaning of his sermon than I am able to express...

I must say that I feel blessed, fulfilled, and content as I look backwards in my own personal history, despite some of the tragedy I've experienced. The emotions, the satisfaction, the thrill, the heart-felt love, the sadness, the laughs and the tears that have come from my "moments" fill me with gratefulness to Him for such a rich life!

"Thank you, Lord, for the grace you gave me during the "moments" of my life...both difficult and easy...and for the "moments" you'll continue to give me and this dear family of mine! Grant me the mindset to acknowledge You in each victory, in each struggle, and in each person you place before me. Amen"

2006-02-05T17:45:00.000-06:00

The Angela Adventures

"To Breathe....or Not To Breathe...is that even a question???"

Okay...ready, deep breath, step in, pull the straps up, zip, zip, zip some more...and...it....fits! Praise God!

Yes... the lovely, shimmery, plum colored, never-been-worn evening dress and jacket purchased last year fits even a little bit better than I expected. BUT...I can't gain an ounce of weight, and it would behoove me to lose 5 lbs. between now and March 11th. Oh...my dear Christian friends...pray for my will power. I have a week-long business trip at a swank hotel coming up, and an anniversary, too! But...I exercised 6 times this past week, and hope to do 7 times this coming week. Burn, burn, burn those calories.

I don't want to buy another dress when this one is perfectly lovely. I did decide to buy a very substantial "undergarment" to give me the appearance of sleek and slender...I may not be able to breathe, but I'll look terrific!

Thirty-four days until Karen's wedding. We are almost ready...we just have the concern of everything coming together smoothly at this point. All the pieces of the puzzle are on the table, now we just have to put them together.

Keep praying for our patience and our planning! Karen has done an awesome job! I do a pretty good job with the checkbook and the credit card, too!

Another work week is upon me. I had the honor of serving as a screener for the 2005/2006 Verizon Excellence award nominees. I learned that my team, with myself as leader, was again recommended for an award this year! We passed the initial screening and are now on our way to final judging. I'm so grateful to the Lord!

Love to my readers...
Angela/"Mom"

2006-01-29T14:39:00.000-06:00

Work...work...work...a never-ending circle of starting and stopping!

Whether it be my job, my home, my projects, my reading, my weight-loss and excercise routine, whatever.....it seems like I'm never finished...and yet I'm always starting afresh, starting again, starting over, starting...starting...starting...and never feeling finished, finished, finished! Never feeling like I've accomplished something worthwhile; sometimes feeling failure...sometimes feeling despair...sometimes feeling ambivalence; always feeling tired!!! Hmmmm....something to think about; something to pray about; something to give over to God.

I have so many mixed feelings today...I feel "fat"; I feel "unfulfilled"; I feel like I'm running inside the wheel of the hamster cage, yet never shedding a pound; I feel like I need a change of scenery; I feel like I need someone to tell me I'm valuable! Hmmm....monopause, maybe? One thing I have done well...I've managed to stay with my "read the Bible in a year" schedule. Please, dear God...help me not to fail at this! Show me in your wonderful Word, how valued a daughter of the King I actually am! Show me that even in the mundane, you have a purpose. Show me that a smile can be healing, a breath of fresh air can be rejuvenating, and a day of rest can be the richest gift I can receive.

More later...

2006-01-22T20:32:00.001-06:00

I'm "IT"....Rachel and Mike tagged me!!

Four Jobs I Have Had:
Sebastopol Apple Canner:
I peeled the bruised spots from the meat of each apple and tossed them in a water trough...(that's why I went to college)
Junior High and High School Spanish and Home Economics Teacher
Administrative Assistant at the University of Oregon Medical School
Management Level Positions for Verizon Information Services

Four Movies I Could Watch Over and Over Again:
An American President
The Sound of Music
Fiddler on the Roof
Shall We Dance?
Honorable Mention: One True Thing, with Glenn Close and Renee Zellweger (I wholeheartedly agree with Mike)

Four Books I Could Read Over and Over:
This is a hard one....so many books; so little time!

Four Places I Have Lived:
Santa Rosa, California
Portland, Oregon
Anchorage, Alaska
Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas

Four TV Shows I Watch:
Dancing with the Stars
Lost
24
Grey's Anatomy

Four Places I Have Been On Vacation:
Paris, France
Maui
Munich, Germany
Bermuda

Four Websites I visit Daily:
Blogspot.com (for all my family "scoop")
Verizon Online
Credit Union
Talbots

Four Favorite Foods:
Almost any seafood (but NOT sushi)with a glass of chardonnay
Light Ice Cream (especially Dreyers)
Fresh Fruit and cheese
Green mixed salads with all varieties of fresh lettuce, peppers, feta cheese, grape tomatoes....I'm hungry!

Four Places I'd Like To Be Now:
Listening to Sarah perform a solo violin piece
Listening to Skip Ryan's sermon at PCPC
Having tea at the Renaisance Antique House on Lovers Lane with Sarah, Rachel and Karen
Having my family around my dinner table...Mike and Rachel, Karen and Dave, Sarah and her guest, my husband.

Four people I'd like to "tag":
David (yes, Karen's David)
My sisters (all of them)
Deborah (my best friend)
John (my husband...he'd NEVER blog!)

2006-01-22T18:07:00.000-06:00

The Angela Adventures

To the tune of "76 Trombones in the Big Parade"...

"Forty-six short days before the daughter weds...
A hundred-and-one details left to do..."

But the fun never ceases, and Karen has the planning under control! From cakes to flowers to DJ's to church decor, to bridal portraits, to showers given and showers to come...the girl is amazing!!! I've loved helping her with meetings and decisions, but she has truly done the work on her own. I'm so proud of her, and the event will be more than lovely! It will be filled with elegant beauty and Texas flavor...all rolled into one memorable, romantic, effervescent, long-remembered evening.

Me? I'm starting to get a little "weepy"...I'm struggling with the realization that I won't have my warm, morning chats with Karen any more. I struggle when I look in the mirror and realize I still have 8 lbs. to lose to fit into the dress I want to wear to her wedding. I sigh when I think of the "food events" that face me, and the self-control I seem to lack. BUT...I have a new motivator right now called..........CURVES! Yes, I've joined the group of middle-aged (meaning age 50 and higher) women who have committed to the resistance training of this amazing little workout regiment. I have a 30 day complimentary pass...after two visits I have screaming muscles and a new determination to shed some body fat.

I just finished reading a book that was really good...not anything that the "academic population" might want to indulge in, but truly a remarkable memoir of the legendary commedienne, Carol Burnett. I loved reading it; I loved following her zest for the theatre and for performance opportunities. I loved admiring her devotion to her Nanny who raised her under extreme poverty conditions. I loved tracing her fame through UCLA...where she worked so hard to earn her degree and pay for tuition simultaneously. While there was nothing spectacular about her spiritual life, there was something very magnetic about her drive, her focus, and her determination. And then there was the connection with her daughters...Oh, do I love daughterly connections...smile!! Carol Burnette - One More Time - A Memoir

I've kept up with "the Bible in a Year"...I posted a comment on my previous blog.

Love to all my readers/fans!!

2006-01-14T00:02:00.000-06:00

Seven times Eight equals 56...

Yes...56 days until Karen Vendsel weds David Norvell. And I still have 8 lbs. to lose to fit into a never-worn, yet "perfect for the occasion" two-piece evening dress and jacket. Tonight's Supper Club with my dear fellowship group set me backwards two giant steps....alas....will I ever learn it gets more difficult the older I get. Exercise...exercise...exercise...I must build more time into my schedule for routine walking.

Tomorrow morning I will basque in the delight of being "mother of the bride-elect" at Karen's first wedding shower. I must admit I love watching, sharing, and living these exciting moments with my daughter. Yes...I'm living my life vicariously through Karen (and Sarah) right now...I guess it's because I feel like I missed out on so much when I was younger. It's so rewarding and wonderful to watch them thrive! I feel the same for my son and his wife...what exciting, adventurous times for them as they dive into their graduate studies, plan their futures as counselors and professors, and trust God for their ultimate happiness and their future abode.

I am journaling in 2006! I'm writing my prayers and my conversations with God...it is so refreshing, and I like going back and reading what I wrote days and weeks earlier. There are some prayers that have been answered and others that are in a pending state. I'm also reading the One-Year Bible...I pray that I'll keep current with it.

Alas...it is late, and I'm tired, and my computer battery is growing dim. More blogging later...

Nighty-night to my readers.

2006-01-01T21:29:00.000-06:00

O Christmas Tree, O Christmas Tree...how bare are now your branches!!

The pure delight I experieced five short weeks ago, has sobered to reality today! The memories of each treasured ornament I placed upon our tree have been packed away in Rubbermaid plastic storage containers along with those lovely little keepsakes for yet another year's hibernation. The glitter, the sparkle, the twinkle lights, the candles, the ribbons, the flickering flames from the tapers on the dining room table and the logs in the fireplace...have been replaced with the predictable ambience of our middle-class decor. I love the holidays, but as I grow a year older at each turn of the calendar year, I mourn the conclusion of this most special time of year...especially when I realize that my most precious gifts...Mike and Rachel, Sarah, Karen and Dave...may not be present at my tree in 2006. Each new turn in the journey of their adult lives will reveal new priorities, different commitments, and the beginning of their own Vendsel and Norvell traditions.

I loved Christmas 2005! My thoughtful husband, John, recognized that this might be the last year all the Vendsel Children and their significant others would grace our home for the holidays. Therefore, my gift was airline fare for those far away to be home in Texas for the holidays. We splurged on holiday festivities....food, flowers, restaurants, shopping, gifts, and little surprises along the way. My mother, "Grandma Nan", was an added "gift" to our home as well. We flew her to Texas from California, so she could enjoy her grandchildren's presence for a few days. Three generations present...how joyful! What a special blessing!

It was emotionally painful to see Mike and Rachel off at the airport! They left on the 26th for home in Philadelphia, where they were looking forward to a second holiday week of fun with Rachel's mother and father, Carol and John Allen. Karen and Dave left the same day to drive to Arkansas to visit the Norvell family. And Grandma Nan also left on the 26th...flying home to California to pick up her highly anticipated Christmas gift...Tillie and Trixie (two miniature poodles)!

Daughter Sarah is still home; not planning to drive back to Chattanooga until the 4th of January. She will have a student riding back with her; a blessing for this mom to know she won't endure the 12-hour drive alone! I'm enjoying her kindred spirit, our serious yet hilarious chats, our loving teasing, our walks around the neighborhood and to Parr Park. I'll miss her when she leaves, but I'm so proud of her accomplishments and her success in her first "real job" after graduate school.

New Year's Eve found John and me at the Convention Center in town, enjoying an evening of dinner, dancing, silent and live auction, "murder mystery" theatre, champagne toast and midnight breakfast! Whew!! The event was a fundraiser for the Runway Theatre, our community theatrical group. We've enjoyed our season tickets this year, and the productions have been very, very good.

Rachel taught me how to post pictures on my blog. I should have written the instructions down...I can't remember how to do it! As soon as I recall, I'll post some photos...

Happy New Year to all my readers...I'll post my thoughts, my goals, my ambitions for 2006 during my next post.

Love to all!

2005-12-01T18:54:00.000-06:00

Today is the first day of December and the last month of 2005. Time is so very fleeting...I can't believe I'm looking at my Christmas tree as I'm typing this blog!

November was so full for the Greenfields...especially me! After we recuperated from our Phoenix trip for the Johnny/Jessica wedding, I prepared for my business trip to the Pacific Northwest. My boss, Teresa Keenan, and I flew to Portland, Oregon on the 13th of November. We arrived midday which allowed us to comb the streets of downtown and enjoy a lovely brunch together. After a Monday morning presentation at the Verizon office in Tigard, OR, we drove to Seattle. The weather was amazing...clear blue skies, beautiful fall foliage, and snow peaked mountaintops. We had a late lunch/early dinner of fresh seafood, then walked the streets of downtown Seattle. It was a little cooler than Portland, but beautifully alive and vibrant. I loved it.

We spent the night at the Embassy Suites in Lynwood, WA, and then presented a repeat performance of our presentation on Tuesday for our Seattle team. However...I did it solo....Teresa contracted a terrible stomach virus and was sick for almost 36 hours doing all the "unmentionables". Of course, I had spent all the previous two days with her, and we had shared a meal together, so I felt sure I'd come down with it, too....and I did. I spent the evening of the 15th and the 16th sick in bed at the hotel...groan! On the 17th (my birthday), John was to meet me at the airport in Seattle for an extended weekend. Luckily my illness wasn't as severe as Teresa's, so I was able to meet John and take the two of us to our hotel in downtown Seattle. We stayed at the Sheraton Towers...very lovely...and we had a super view of the city and the Puget Sound. Caroline Greenfield spent Friday evening and Saturday all day with us. We took a ferry boat to Kingston, on the other side of the Sound, and then drove to the Port Townsend area where we lunched and cruised the delightful shops downtown. Very much fun...nice to spend some quality time with Caroline.

On Sunday morning, Caroline took us to the airport and we flew to San Francisco. We met Johnny and Jessica for dinner at their darling high-rise apartment. They are very comfortable there with their two very large dogs and their view of the city. We had a pleasant visit and reminisced about their wedding in Phoenix and their honeymoon in Maui.

Monday afternoon we drove our rental car to Santa Rosa and spent the next five days with my sisters...Pam and DeeDee and their spouses, children, and significant others. Grandma Nan was in her glory having everyone in Santa Rosa! I played with my grand-nephew, Victor Ventura (Nicole and Esteban's first-born son), and ate some wonderful roast lamb and turkey that were lovingly prepared by Mom and Pam. David Passarell, my nephew, manages a fairly large movie house in Santa Rosa, so he "comped" us a night at the movies with popcorn and cokes and all the trimmings. We saw Shopgirl with Claire Danes and Steve Martin. It was very good, but hard to watch at times. Next on my list....Pride and Prejudice! I can't wait!

As life would have it, I've come down sick again...this time with an upper respirtory infection, clogged ears, swollen glands, nasty cold and cough...I've missed two days of work this week...again...and will probably miss tomorrow, too. Luckly, I can log in to my Verizon network from home, so I should be able to catch up while I rest.

I truly hope your Thanksgiving holidays were fruitful, and that you enjoyed being thankful with those at your dinner table.
All my love in our Lord....

Mom

2005-11-09T20:34:00.000-06:00

"Grandma Nan" is very ill....please pray for her!

My dear mother, Nan Bardes, is very ill and in the hospital. She is suffering from a severe urinary tract infection/bladder infection. She was running a high fever, not able to hold food or drink in her tummy, and in terrible pain in her lower extremities. Bless her heart...she is no larger than a minute, so when she gets sick, she gets very weak.

Please pray for her medical treatments, the doctors' wisdom in caring for her, and her own spiritual strength during this difficult time.

Many thanks...

2005-11-09T20:13:00.000-06:00

Under the Phoenix Sun...

Four days in the desert sunshine of Phoenix, Arizona at the Pointe Hilton Squaw Peak Resort! It was a warm dry 84 to 86 degrees each day...absolutely zero humidity! I actually got some sunshine on my pale skin for the first time in years! The resort had several swimming pools and a "lazy river"...we tubed the river each day enjoying the wet coolness of the water and the beautifully landscaped gardens on each side.

Johnny and Jessica Greenfield were married during a lovely garden ceremony at the Royal Palms Resort in Phoenix. It was at 4:00 p.m. and the weather was ideal...shady yet still warm. Jessica looked like she came off the cover of Brides' Magazine. She was stunning. She forfeited her former Cancun "beachfront" bridal dress for an unbelievable gown and cathedral length veil. The bridesmaids and groomsmen still wore their Cancun wedding garments (white linen pants and blue shirts for the guys; white gauze strapless dresses with blue pashmina shawls for the girls) with bare feet! The lawn aisle was strewn with pink and white rose petals; the wedding party carried/wore the same roses.

There was a formal dinner afterwards...amazing food, lots of drinks (alcoholic and non) and beautifully set tables with crystal, candles, roses, and more! The wedding cake was decorated with shells (retaining the beachfront motif that Cancun was to offer). The napkin rings were made out of shells...so very pretty! The theme was so prevalent throughout all the planning and preparation.

The bride and groom left for a week's honeymoon in Maui. We will see them in a couple of weeks when we visit California over the Thanksgiving holidays.

Sunday will find me preparing for my Northwest business trip to Portland and Seattle. John will meet me in Seattle for my birthday on the 17th. On the 20th we will travel to San Francisco and see Johnny and Jessica. Then we'll drive to Santa Rosa for Thanksgiving. We come home the Friday after Thanksgiving Thursday.

Thank you for visiting my blog and leaving your comments! I so enjoy reading them!

2005-10-31T19:44:00.000-06:00

Oh Welcome, Darkness!

Yes...it was actually dark when I drove home this evening! Blessed time change...a welcome acknowledgement of fall, Halloween, Thanksgiving and soon, Christmastime! Our house is dark tonight...very dark! Few lights glow; the television is on low volume; the windows are black. Why, you might ask? Because I didn't buy any candy, and I don't want rotten eggs strewn on my driveway, front porch, and front windows!!
Trick-or-Treaters...I paid my dues for soooooo many years past! Is it "Bah, Humbug" for Halloween, too, or is that just Christmas (for which I am NO humbug, that's for sure).

John and I attended a Halloween party on Saturday night, and it was absolutely delightful! I haven't been to a party in so long...the theme was "wig and wine" and the participants really outdid themselves! I looked like a 70's country western singer with a brunette shag wig, crinkle cloth peasant shirt with bell sleeves, and bell bottom jeans. John looked like.....well, that's hard to say....suffice it to say that he wore a Paul McCartney-type wig. Yes....it was certainly humourous!

This week finds us preparing for the wedding of Dr. Johnny Greenfield and Jessica Kay Rowell. The event was to take place on the beach at Cancun; obviously that's not happening. We are going to Phoenix instead, and hopefully the warm desert breezes will bring just as much joy as the sandy beaches might have!

More later....in the meantime....grace and peace to each of you in our precious Lord and Saviour! I pray daily that he keeps you under His protective wing, and that you each prosper as He would have you to do!

Much love to family and friends...

Mom/Angie

2005-10-24T23:08:00.000-05:00

Twenty-seven years ago today....

...I gave birth to my first-born...A son! And one in whom the Lord is well-pleased! And one in whom I hold extreme motherly pride and a blessed "return of my time invested" in his life!

Michael, when you read this, please know that many years ago I wondered what kind of a young man you would become; who you might marry; how the Lord might use you to His glory; what my influence on you might reflect; and how you would leave a legacy on this earth! WOW...Such parental hopes, dreams and aspirations! I can truly say there hasn't been a time when I've been disappointed in your accomplishments...Oh no...Quite the contrary, my son! You have been the epitome of discipline; the student all teachers wish for and dream about; the citizen a community takes pride in; the friend of so many fine young people across the US; the brother two sisters couldn't be prouder of; the husband a young bride so prayerfully hopes for! And last, but certainly not least, the mature young adult I prayed for as a child, spanked as a toddler, and laughed with as a teenager! I look upon you and and I bow my head with thankfulness in my heart...I raised you well, and you have become more than I could have ever hoped and dreamed for. May this be the happiest of all birthdays past!!

Love, Mom

2005-10-22T20:19:00.000-05:00

"Wigs and Wine"

Now that's an eye-catcher, huh? I was quite flattered to receive an invitation to a Halloween "wig and wine" party at the home of one of the executive directors at Verizon! Requirements for attendance: Everyone must wear a wig! Whoa! The president of our area will be there, along with my boss and some other noteworthy Verizon leadership team members. The invitation was directed to me and my "guest"... So John will most likely accompany me! This event occurs on October 29th...Next Saturday.

This past week found me absolutely swamped at work. Ten and eleven hour days...Lots of conference calls and meetings...Some difficult employee confrontations...And some very disgruntled customers to assuage! Oh my! My daughter-in-law, Rachel Vendsel, had a wonderful couple of quotes on her blog which were very convicting...dealing with pain and how God uses pain for our sanctification. Terrific words at a very timely moment for me.

As the weeks go by, I find myself missing my adult children more and more! I have such deep-felt joy and thanksgiving in my heart that each of these dear ones are guided, protected, and kept in Him. I love reading their blogspots...catching up on their thoughts, their activities, their "blunders" and their amusements. How wonderful that our technology is such that it is and that we don't have to rely on the Pony Express to share our hearts with each other!

Karen and Dave spent the weekend in Brownwood, Texas attending Homecoming '05 at Howard Payne University. Tomorrow they will have their official engagement portraits taken, and hopefully we'll be able to send a link where you can preview them. We'll put some newspaper announcements in the Grapevine Sun and in the Fort Worth Star Telegram...I'll let you know when they are published so you can look for those online, too.

I packaged four large boxes today and sent them to dear Sarah! Fun kitchen stuff and pantry items for her first solo apartment. What a gift from God to give her a wonderful apartment right next door to a lovely Christan family.

Tomorrow John and I will attend the OPC church in MidCities. The pastor is really a great guy, and I totally like his personality. He's an expository teacher/preacher, not quite as dynamic as Skip Ryan, yet still very gifted at breaking the Word of God.

On November 3rd, John and I depart for Cancun for four days. Dr. Johnny Greenfield and Jessica Rowell will marry on the beach in Cancun...If it's still there! Hurricane Wilma is wreaking havoc on their plans; please pray with us that the devastation won't be such that all their plans will be washed away (no pun intended).

Not much more excitement in my life right now. Just sheer busy-ness! Would love to read your comments.

2005-10-16T17:04:00.000-05:00

"California, here I come, go, leave....whatever!"

This last week found me doing Verizon business in the glorious southern California weather! I was in Ontario and Los Alamitos, both located within about 60 miles of each other in the glorious desert and coastal areas of California. I traveled with my boss, Teresa Keenan, and we arrived decked with Powerpoint presentations and Excel spreadsheets, ready and eager to present two identical meetings to different audiences in the West. They went well; we only got chewed up and spit out a couple of times...but we had our rebound defenses prepared, and I believe we came out the winners in the long run!

Traveling with my boss is a joy, yet it's hard not to be envious/jealous of her position within Verizon, her adorable figure and amazing wardrobe, and her affinity for limelight and praise! She's an amazing businesswoman, with extremely good fashion taste, travel taste, food taste, wine taste, and vacation taste! After four days of hotel indulgence, food indulgence, and corporate talk points, I was feeling desirous to further climb the corporate ladder while at the same time, feeling very tired at just the thought of it! Is it the limelight I crave? Is it the monetary reward I crave? Is it the recognition I crave? Is it the political involvement of the corporate world I crave? Or, is it better that I look to Him to satisfy these cravings for position, for stature and for lucrative reward? I believe we all know the correct answer to this...

After returning home to the normal hum-drum of life following a fun-filled, recognition-worthy business trip, I find myself longing for true purpose in daily existence! When one stops to think about it, this job I have is simply about yellow page advertising and customer satisfaction....truly, it's just a phone book! It's just a blasted phone book!!!! And yet these telphone directories (which I monitor for customer service satsifaction levels, and manage the Call Center for customer complaints) bring this mega corporation, Verizon, an amazing amount of revenue that has put three of my children through higher education (and in many respects continues to do so), has put food on my table, a roof over our heads, very cute clothes on our bodies, and opportunities to travel and play heartily! Oh my!

Sunday...today is the 16th. John and I attended Fort Worth Presbyterian Church on Hulen Avenue. A PCA church; truly a beautiful facility...one of the most beautiful buildings I have ever seen. Darwin Jones is the senior pastor. The sermon was on Genesis 16. It was well-delivered, but I still find myself yearning for the weekly preaching of Skip Ryan at PCPC. Please keep us in your prayers as we determine where we should settle down and become committed...

Haven't finished the first volume of three books I purchased...Leslie Vernick titles. But, I'm working through the last 1/4 of her book, "How to Respond Right When Your Spouse Behaves Wrong"...

More later...I'm preparing for a busy week ahead...to my family and close friends, I love you all most dearly!

2005-10-09T18:07:00.000-05:00

"Wait Until Dark"...

Was the live theatre production John and I saw last evening at the Grapevine Runway Theatre! It was awesome! The acting was superb; made me very pleased we had purchased season tickets for the theatre...our treat for the year as opposed to the Dallas Symphony. I miss the symphonic concerts, but we'll definitely buy a couple of individual tickets during the season.

Look into your local community theatre for entertainment! It is wonderful support for the local actors/actresses and fabulous entertainment! Very reasonably priced, too! Check out the classic movie if you aren't familliar with the story line!

2005-10-09T12:29:00.000-05:00

The amazing aura of Autumn!

Yes...It has finally arrived! A morning walk in the neighborhood confirmed the fact that our Texas weather finally made the transition from the hot, humid summer to the cooler, breezy autumn air. I love this season...Truly my favorite season of the year.

I sit here this morning contemplating the end of 2005 and how much activity is in store for me these next several weeks. Tomorrow I leave for a four-day business trip to Southern California. I've prepared a solid presentation for some very high-maintenance sales employees in the Company. Fortunately my boss will be with me to "scrape me off the floor" if I get chewed up and spit out! The purpose of the trip is to do some serious networking and "partnering" if you will. We recently had some organizational changes in the Company which resulted in my office absorbing all customer contacts from the West...Truly a HUGE undertaking. We are experiencing some "growing" pains to say the least!

In three short weeks (November 1st) John and I leave for three nights, four days in CanCun. Son, Johnny Greenfield, is marrying on the beachfront. More than 100 family and friends will be in attendance. It's been a gala planning affair for the future Jessica Rowell-Greenfield. And I must say, all the flora and flair of an upscale wedding extravaganza is on the horizon. She has spared no detail! It should be one of the most unusual, unique weddings I've ever attended.

On November 13th I'll be traveling to Portland, Oregon on another business trip. After meetings at the Verizon office on the 14th of November, my boss and I will travel to Seattle for a repeat performance in the Everett, WA office. John will fly to Seattle on the 17th, and we'll spend my birthday weekend with daughter/step-daughter, Caroline. On Sunday afternoon, we fly from Seattle to San Francisco. We'll see the newly married Dr. and Mrs. Johnny Greenfield for a day before traveling to Santa Rosa to spend Thanksgiving with my sisters and my mother.

Christmas will find me with no more time off...At all! But...I may manage to escape early from the office from time to time, and do some shopping. I'm hoping as many family will be in the area as possible. I know that Rachel and Mike may have to spend a white Christmas in Philadelphia. I know that grieves the hearts of may...Mine included! BUT...God is good, and knows best, and some of the most precious Christmas memories I have are as a newlywed, spending my first holiday with my own new identity. Karen and Dave will be in Grapevine, and Sarah will hopefully be here, too. We'll make the best of a smaller celebration.

On New Year's Eve, John and I will attend the Grapevine Runway Theatre's Gala Celebration! It's a catered dinner, mystery theatre, dancing, midnight champagne toast, and breakfast buffet. I've never done anything like this before; should be a nice change and a delightful time! I'm hoping we'll meet some new people from the community.

January will arrive, and then the wedding countdown will be here! March 11th wedding day for Karen and Dave will be upon us before we can blink an eye. She has been the "planning queen" to say the least, and has done a great job of pulling together this lovely celebration. More to come on that...By the way, Karen and Dave are registered at Bed, Bath and Beyond and Crate and Barrel.

I'm deeply involved in reading some serious Christian titles involving relationships and marriage. The author is Leslie Vernick. I would covet your prayers for me as I search my soul for some answers to my personal struggles. I also covet your prayers for wisdom as to where we should regularly attend church. I really want active involvement coupled with meaningful pulpit teaching. I seem to find one or the other, but not both. This is so important to me! While I miss the strong teaching of Skip Ryan, I find no personal fulfillment in relationships at PCPC. On the other hand, I find friendship and love at the Bedford OPC church, but not an impacting teaching ministry. Thanks for praying.

Enjoy your week...Make it a blessing! An excerpt from Leslie Vernick's book, "How to Act Right When Your Spouse Acts Wrong"....

..."Oswald Chambers tells us...'The test of a man's religious life and character is not what he does in the exceptional moments of life, but what he does in the ordinary times, when there is nothing tremendous or exciting going on.'...I would add that the test also comes when other people in our life sin against, hurt or disappoint us. Then who we are and what we are made of is more apparent, not only to others but also to ourselves. This is the perfect time to yield to God's refining process so that we might not just endure our hardship but grow from and through it. John Calvin encourages us by reminding us 'that they may not become too complacent or delighted in married life, he (God) makes them distressed by the shortcomings of their partners.'"

2005-10-06T19:29:00.000-05:00

Is that a cool breeze I'm feeling?

WOW! It was in the 60's today with a cool, windy breeze all day long! Did fall finally come to the humid state of Texas? I'm thinking so...

This week finds me spending 12-hour days at Verizon and planning fun activities for my employees during this national Customer Service Week. Yes...it's a national celebration; a week dedicated to front-line service professionals...actually enacted by Congress, if you can believe it! I've orchestrated breakfasts, lunches, open houses, baking contests, "crazy hat" day, and team building exercises every day. And that's in addition to my normal duties and responsibilities. No wonder I'm putting in 12-hour days!

I just received three books in the mail from amazon.com. These are recommendations from my dear daughter-in-law, Rachel Vendsel. The author is Leslie Vernick, and the titles are "How to Act Right When Your Spouse Acts Wrong"; "How to Find Selfless Joy in a Me-First World" and "How to Live Right When Your Life Goes Wrong". Hmmmm...sound like titles for a mid-life crisis, huh?!! Well, perhaps I'm actually having one!! I've started the first listed book; only a few pages so far, but already compelling.

What else am I doing in my spare time...between working at Verizon, working at home, and sleeping? Not a whole lot!! I am, however, adoring every moment of wedding planning with Karen. As each day goes by, I see God's rich blessings in her life...a wonderful husband-to-be who truly adores her and has her on a pedestal! They are participating in some very practical pre-marital counseling activities...I'm so very pleased!

On Monday I'm off to California on business; I'll return to Texas on Thursday. I'll post more "blog" journals at that time. Thank you for reading!!

2005-10-01T12:36:00.000-05:00

Oktoberfest....no, it's really October 1st...

And an exciting first day of October it is! Daughter, Karen, and I are getting ready for the bridal portrait shoot later this afternoon. This morning we were at the hairdresser, messing around with tiara, veil, and "dos" and some "don't's...we then picked up a bridal nosegay from City Florist in Grapevine. We are getting ready to do make-up....what a scene....jeans skirt, button down t-shirt, gorgeous veil and tiara on top of a very simple yet "very Karen" hairstyle, stark clean face!!! Such fun "girl stuff"...I'm taking "before and after" shots with my antique camera throughout the day. If it was digital, I'd put them online...maybe I'll develop them on a CD so that I can post a few...but Dave Norvell will need to stay away!

More later!

2005-09-30T17:54:00.000-05:00

Why put off until tomorrow, what can be done today?

Last evening I lugged my laptop computer from my office to the car, accompanied by a huge envelope of unfinished spreadsheets, unanswered email, and "to be addressed" customer escalation letters. Why? Because I thought I might work from home on Friday and "catch up" without the in-office interruptions. But as it would happen, I started my morning with a pre-scheduled doctor's appointment...

I saw Dr. Beth Anglin, a (ahem...)breast specialist. Yes, I had discoverd a couple of enlarged cysts that, upon radiology, revealed some "suspicious" deposits that needed a surgical consult. So, "consulting we will go...." and I saw Dr. Anglin. After a review of numerous mammography films and ultrasound results, she explained to me that a cyst "needle aspiration" and "biopsy" were necessary...she would consult with CIGNA to be sure they would cover the procedure.

Upon returning with the "A-OK" from CIGNA, she proceeded to....NOT schedule another appointment, but lead me to the surgical room, and completed the procedure right then and there, in her office, without putting me to sleep (but yes, with lots of local anesthetic). YIKES! I was freaked out somewhat, but yet happy to get it done right away without the anticipation of a future visit to the clinic.

The procedure really wasn't bad; I really experienced very little pain. But, watching the procedure on the ultrasound monitor affected my imagination, my anxiety level, and my emotional state of mind...I shouldn't have watched! But I did, and my body reacted by becoming light headed, queasy, shaky, increased vital signs, and clammy cold sweats! Whew! Nothing like a little drama for a Friday morning! Needless to say, I relaxed on the exam table for awhile after the procedure, and regained my composure before driving myself home!!

Results? Dr. Anglin was encouraged by what she "aspirated" and the biopsy sample appears to be benign. They never promise anything; pathology results should be available on Monday. Your prayers are coveted!

I rested at home; worked for awhile (although I did not open the envelope of deliverables I lugged home); and am now ready to start my weekend.

To the women in my life: Please watch your caffeine levels; do not smoke (so glad I never picked up that habit); and get routine well-woman check-ups, including a colonoscopy if you are 50 or older (I did it...really not bad except for the "cleansing" routine the day before...ahem....).

My heartfelt love to those who are dear to me.

2005-09-26T22:04:00.000-05:00

Monday Musings...

Monday mornings come so quickly after the long-awaited, eagerly anticipated weekend. The routine (and not so routine) tasks of the Verizon Customer Care department consume more than the normal 8 hours a day. Today I left work at 6:45 p.m. arriving home shortly after 7:00 p.m. Too exhausted to work out on my treadmill after a very long day at the office, I resorted to a small snack with John, a glass of chardonnay, and a crossword puzzle on the couch. John snoozed through an episode of CSI Miami. Karen was over at Dave's apartment working out. I enjoyed the quiet of my living room, although I would have much preferred the company of Mike and Rachel, Karen and Dave, and Sarah. If you are reading this blog, please know that I miss you all terribly!

I spent five days in Phoenix, Arizona last week. The first day was spent visiting Gerald and Gladys Vendsel in Mesa. Gerry is now 84 years old, recovering from a serious circulatory disease. His mind is very sharp, and while he shows his 84 years, he is just as spry and amusing as ever...he's always had a dry sense of humour, so much like his son, Walt! Gladys was as hospitable as ever...she even altered a pair of dress slacks for me while we visited on their back patio overlooking the beautiful greens of the golf course. She leaves for a three-week boat trip in China in October. She adores traveling and I'm so envious of the wonderful trips she has taken. I do hope the Lord blesses me with the same quality of life when I am her age.

The Verizon conference in Phoenix was very enjoyable. This was one time I was able to sit back and enjoy the presentations rather than having to deliver one. My boss was the presenter this time, and she did an awesome job. There were about 200 people in attendance, from all over the U.S. She recognized my colleague, Jeff Merten, and me, and it was very nice to get the public recognition. When I attend these events, I'm always motivated to push forward, move further up the corporate ladder, and make some kind of name for myself! BUT...that desire does wane somewhat when I return to the routine! I would welcome a job promotion one day, although I'm very happy with my present position, and I enjoy the people I work with. The older I get, the more I realize how blessed I am to have had this many years with the Company.

We attended the small, growing OPC church in Bedford on Sunday. I enjoy the people there...many old friends from Colleyville Presbyterian Church. But, I so miss the preaching and teaching from PCPC. I wonder if there is a happy medium.

We made travel plans to Cancun for Johnny and Jessica's wedding on November 5th. It should be a gala affair! While I wince at spending that much money to go to a wedding, we need to be there, and I know it will be a beautiful few days in the tropical sun and on the beachfront.

Thanksgiving will find the Vendsel/Greenfield clan in different parts of the country. Sarah will travel to be with Mike and Rachel in Philadelphia. Karen and Dave will travel to Portland to be with Walt and Pam. I'll be in the northwest on business the week of November 13th; John will join me in Seattle for my birthday. We'll eat at Joe's Crab Shack on the Puget Sound with Caroline, and then we'll travel to San Francisco to visit Dr. and Mrs. Johnny Greenfield. We'll have Thanksgiving with my mother and sisters in Santa Rosa, and then come home to Grapevine the next day.

I so enjoy reading your blogs - Mike, Rachel, and Sarah! I smile, laugh, and sometimes shed a tear or two (or three).

Saturday Karen and I will be spending the day with her photographer; she's having her wedding portraits taken! We'll send you some kind of sneak preview, pending her permission.

I just finished a book called The Mermaid Chair by Sue Monk Kidd. Enjoyable reading; very different. I liked her first book better, The Secret Life of Bees. I've also read three novels by Jody Picoult. She's a terrific writer and her themes are very contemporary and sometimes controversial. BUT...she engages her reader, and it's so much fun to try to second-guess the outcome. I've not been successful yet...probably why I enjoy her writing so much.

More later...time to get ready for another day at the Verizon Villa!

2005-09-25T16:54:00.000-05:00

Testing! Testing! I'm attempting to post my very first "blog" composition.
I'd love it if you would comment that you were able to retrieve this excerpt!