tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8311869141028850232024-03-18T07:42:59.389-04:00The Tales of an Amputee Mommy<a href="http://www.amputeemommy.com">The Official Blog of Amputeemommy.com</a>Peggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14667746210133305897noreply@blogger.comBlogger3792125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-831186914102885023.post-4729959934323655902024-03-18T07:42:00.002-04:002024-03-18T07:42:13.698-04:00Family Adventure<p> Oh my goodness- our weekend was so busy and hectic that my head is still spinning. Sitting on my couch this morning it amazes me how much we did since Friday morning. It is going to take me a day to get unpacked and back on track for the week ahead but it was worth it. We were busy and our plans did not pan out as anticipated, but the weekend was definitely one that will be remembered in our family.</p><p>Friday afternoon I pulled the boys out of school early and we headed to Pennsylvania. After dropping Friend off for a special visit with my Mom and his cousin puppy friends we headed to our destination. Unbeknownst to the boys, we were going to the Red
Caboose Motel to sleep in an authentic train car for the night. Timmy
actually squealed with delight when he realized his accommodations for
the evening. </p><p></p><p>We spent the evening exploring the farm and the
motel grounds which also hosted a small petting zoo. I decided it would
be funny to take a selfie with the little horse. I suppose I tried too
many angles and frustrated the pony because he nipped my shoulder as I
was taking the photo. <br /></p><p>Sleeping in a train was memorable but
definitely not comfortable. Robby was too tall for the train bunks so we
gave him the only real bed in the caboose. Scott, Timmy and I each
claimed a bunk and settled in for the evening. While Timmy slept great,
Scott and I suffered a bit. Perhaps we are too old to contort ourselves
for such a long time. We both woke groggy from a poor night sleep and
sore from the limited movement options afforded by the small bed. </p><p>Saturday
morning we packed up and headed to set up our little FlexyFriends
pop-up shop at the mall. Set-up did not proceed as anticipated but we
were able to pull it together in the end. By the time the mall
officially opened we were set-up but flustered from the stress.
Thankfully we were able to settle into a groove for the day.</p><p>While
we were at the mall on Saturday and Sunday, Timmy went back to hang out
with my mom. He thoroughly enjoyed his time and was much happier at her
house than he was at the mall with us. Saturday evening, after the mall
closed we headed to dinner and another hotel for the night. Scott and I
were especially eager to lay down in a real bed. </p><p>Of course, things don't always work out the way you plan.... to be continued tomorrow.</p><p> </p><p><br /><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgweczSPdN0Pd9pHjlBKdZIaqlBW4NQaTgsqY7tpPEmFlQrQMn6utuED1EzIiNLFaa-TPBpSyAYSMZkabnW0KMdovfnX0LIUyZQhF_FBKZ7vDPXf7QyWW3RNtTEKNXKahXPCthdJP0AEXBb70N3AuxAehejhzH996tHHZ-vG0GbgyiRyWgAFMtzwx5w15DN/s4624/PXL_20240316_141908709.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3472" data-original-width="4624" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgweczSPdN0Pd9pHjlBKdZIaqlBW4NQaTgsqY7tpPEmFlQrQMn6utuED1EzIiNLFaa-TPBpSyAYSMZkabnW0KMdovfnX0LIUyZQhF_FBKZ7vDPXf7QyWW3RNtTEKNXKahXPCthdJP0AEXBb70N3AuxAehejhzH996tHHZ-vG0GbgyiRyWgAFMtzwx5w15DN/s320/PXL_20240316_141908709.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKMUPxtfRprtDRRdAKgTC0cgHlxbHDf04vXf0ES8jkWmeeq9rnLiHtxXhSXQpEZjQKtadGmdMn81ENUlqJ3NdHPCUutkBHzFAbxet8f7q1QDZFlTlHlljvwx5YeksHl3KRursHG7BZIOFIHXxgcDc4fnHkYg3mdrigMGd9X40pS6PWyGpvd93LQnWCO587/s4624/PXL_20240316_141854916.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3472" data-original-width="4624" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKMUPxtfRprtDRRdAKgTC0cgHlxbHDf04vXf0ES8jkWmeeq9rnLiHtxXhSXQpEZjQKtadGmdMn81ENUlqJ3NdHPCUutkBHzFAbxet8f7q1QDZFlTlHlljvwx5YeksHl3KRursHG7BZIOFIHXxgcDc4fnHkYg3mdrigMGd9X40pS6PWyGpvd93LQnWCO587/s320/PXL_20240316_141854916.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5dwjkx7LtFinFKr0nsEDOfWCq3yU-bk2Qtpows8kcbBGoxulJ0_WXbtPws73cs8jMfTV2ZvfYTbj0Wvpaylu-0Cy8pwzE-I4h8Pl6hOHP4xEOH0gk06PZkDfUlmeg3aW4MLpLnKnGhAPLLn-idPQRljc-FdXhzwQ-oQ1Fpw0oy5T9ffXXoBqghbLdCA30/s4624/PXL_20240316_113959585.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4624" data-original-width="3472" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5dwjkx7LtFinFKr0nsEDOfWCq3yU-bk2Qtpows8kcbBGoxulJ0_WXbtPws73cs8jMfTV2ZvfYTbj0Wvpaylu-0Cy8pwzE-I4h8Pl6hOHP4xEOH0gk06PZkDfUlmeg3aW4MLpLnKnGhAPLLn-idPQRljc-FdXhzwQ-oQ1Fpw0oy5T9ffXXoBqghbLdCA30/s320/PXL_20240316_113959585.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi76VTBCv3inMUMuBd9S0diuH9lWl-GHJGBk1gwNg0RKAVbuf683u25DxItYbbla_expS-0Ahla2GlJ54zGJZlIPuCjjBuhjT8cn8cNItD-ZUrom8-whlznnLMiXmQHca4GREJ5EbOXMNt-dAqsu7ujj3E9RfV9T-6Ug0PsHHaJRefw4tb_x37uWwcM7gTJ/s4032/PXL_20240315_230649940.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi76VTBCv3inMUMuBd9S0diuH9lWl-GHJGBk1gwNg0RKAVbuf683u25DxItYbbla_expS-0Ahla2GlJ54zGJZlIPuCjjBuhjT8cn8cNItD-ZUrom8-whlznnLMiXmQHca4GREJ5EbOXMNt-dAqsu7ujj3E9RfV9T-6Ug0PsHHaJRefw4tb_x37uWwcM7gTJ/s320/PXL_20240315_230649940.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmOFbYze2EKUQ_WfduTOzXV10QHkDRdMrNYXdTgXRNIzPfNTdfo9cYJNJ9P6sOOBSVnB_UtErndvWAJZmCBqPyAjNgZYvySXVKk5CfFf9mOgMLCpjzdPbUWewYYyunzxFxnEiGph9S8Wlf9d5fH5dsAVPisE5qDXdzT7NvKCk9m9KVr-6ZRJJVZLQ3fwgJ/s4032/PXL_20240315_225934323.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmOFbYze2EKUQ_WfduTOzXV10QHkDRdMrNYXdTgXRNIzPfNTdfo9cYJNJ9P6sOOBSVnB_UtErndvWAJZmCBqPyAjNgZYvySXVKk5CfFf9mOgMLCpjzdPbUWewYYyunzxFxnEiGph9S8Wlf9d5fH5dsAVPisE5qDXdzT7NvKCk9m9KVr-6ZRJJVZLQ3fwgJ/s320/PXL_20240315_225934323.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaqTyKKpshkAGic_94rGW8-BnhLXV_-Da1VUOosiyGZ9QMWrqu8hKaBz2iVPvbaDhdI-v1Hsa_FlSrBAvgmjokcJvawRSHHjE0LHtsntoIhIEX6z33JJtKiEfmodiEufh4ElhlcX-Wnj7HfGolGph3vZY7ED1q3zG1mLTQHG_A1lLZ_1X4TwUFi2sz6e8d/s4624/PXL_20240315_210420588.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4624" data-original-width="3472" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaqTyKKpshkAGic_94rGW8-BnhLXV_-Da1VUOosiyGZ9QMWrqu8hKaBz2iVPvbaDhdI-v1Hsa_FlSrBAvgmjokcJvawRSHHjE0LHtsntoIhIEX6z33JJtKiEfmodiEufh4ElhlcX-Wnj7HfGolGph3vZY7ED1q3zG1mLTQHG_A1lLZ_1X4TwUFi2sz6e8d/s320/PXL_20240315_210420588.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyExOUo3j3HinnxKrgaA6ppG4H6mRP-uojUtNQ-u1vyjxq_Tw-UB2tjCNs4YmOmgR8CYO1hRCW4ejOpd-AQzix0g6AmMgKRfJM-IiYpDRBohMfTUMd_kJxFneWu2jOTCGiulHrlkcuSuojWFGIR47ZAceK5VnNZPJ1lfLSEvq6citddcLAa8aP5ZQZDzho/s4624/PXL_20240315_205157435.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4624" data-original-width="3472" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyExOUo3j3HinnxKrgaA6ppG4H6mRP-uojUtNQ-u1vyjxq_Tw-UB2tjCNs4YmOmgR8CYO1hRCW4ejOpd-AQzix0g6AmMgKRfJM-IiYpDRBohMfTUMd_kJxFneWu2jOTCGiulHrlkcuSuojWFGIR47ZAceK5VnNZPJ1lfLSEvq6citddcLAa8aP5ZQZDzho/s320/PXL_20240315_205157435.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhRGvK_fYtwHtpEly48N060jG4bGQRJiRQfq44AtrLyBhtAMuBtJ8Lkxpc6Ei9-32q5dXGZaod7b1mV8DzFHjVuVZv0aJUvcEQJQjwpgBMs8AM5AtMns7b3iQjV1OGKhdwqKGKVwvtvt91etX49kRYoupVb2ZlEEE-103fN1MtCmSiSs0Z7F0Jci4xCIgs/s1599/481614556.jpg.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1599" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhRGvK_fYtwHtpEly48N060jG4bGQRJiRQfq44AtrLyBhtAMuBtJ8Lkxpc6Ei9-32q5dXGZaod7b1mV8DzFHjVuVZv0aJUvcEQJQjwpgBMs8AM5AtMns7b3iQjV1OGKhdwqKGKVwvtvt91etX49kRYoupVb2ZlEEE-103fN1MtCmSiSs0Z7F0Jci4xCIgs/s320/481614556.jpg.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><!-- Start Musqo Analytics Tag -->
<script type="text/javascript">
_msq_qaid=64;
</script>
<script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.musqo.net/analytics/analytics.js"></script>
<!-- End Musqo Analytics Tag --></div>Peggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14667746210133305897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-831186914102885023.post-62651253695331418322024-03-15T07:52:00.005-04:002024-03-15T07:52:47.507-04:00Weekend<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"> I am going to be completely honest. The anniversary of my accident hit me harder than I expected this year. There is just something about the scale tipping towards my living my life longer without a functional biological foot. The combination of grief over dreams derailed and my advancing age threw me into an emotional whirlwind. I spent Wednesday trying to keep busy so that my brain didn't have time to reflect on memories. Time was a friend and moved quickly.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Today I don't have time to wallow or reflect. This weekend FlexyFriends will be selling at the Park City Mall in Lancaster, PA. This is our first time at this mall and we are excited for the opportunity. Because it is a few hours from our home (but relatively close to my Mom), we are turning the event into a small family getaway. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">This afternoon I'm going to swing by my Mom's house to drop off Friend. The boys and I will then head to a novelty hotel where we are going to spend the night sleeping in an authentic train caboose. Scott is planning to take a half-day from work so he will meet us there. Hopefully we will arrive in time to take in a magic show tonight!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Tomorrow morning we head to the mall, set up our little pop-up store and start selling. Timmy is going to meet my Mom on Saturday afternoon for a special sleep-over at Nana's. Robby is planning to stay at the mall with us to help sell. Saturday night we are staying in a hotel closer to the mall because I think we are going to be really tired. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">The weekend is certainly going to be busy, but hopefully it is both fun and profitable. Wish us luck! If you are in the area, swing by the mall and say hi!</span><br /></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><!-- Start Musqo Analytics Tag -->
<script type="text/javascript">
_msq_qaid=64;
</script>
<script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.musqo.net/analytics/analytics.js"></script>
<!-- End Musqo Analytics Tag --></div>Peggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14667746210133305897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-831186914102885023.post-67244587181588798062024-03-13T08:16:00.000-04:002024-03-13T08:16:28.952-04:0026 years<p> <span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">26 years ago this afternoon I took my last 'normal' biological step. This anniversary is always odd for me to remember because it is such a sad memory in so many ways. My heart always breaks as I remember the physical and emotional pain that I endured as my life was ripped to pieces over the ensuing months. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">In an instant I went from living my best life to navigating through an unscheduled detour without a map. The computer broke my foot, but it also completely rerouted my entire life. I can't help but mourn for the years I lost due to the seemingly never ending cycle of surgeries. It makes me sad that my carefree life was stopped so abruptly. It also makes me angry.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">But 26 years have past and my life has firmly planted onto a new path. I love my life, my family and my career. I barely remember and can hardly relate to the young woman that I was stepping into that conference hotel. I suppose many people no longer relate to their youthful selves. Maybe I just have the 'luxury' of knowing the exact moment everything changed.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">What is hitting me odd is that the number of years I have been living without my healthy biological limb now officially outnumbers the time I spent with my foot. I walked without pain for 25 years. I have been dealing with the ramifications of the injury for 26 years. Time moves so quickly!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Today I plan to keep busy. I don't really want to remember. Sometimes memories are overrated, especially when they make your heart hurt.</span><br /></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><!-- Start Musqo Analytics Tag -->
<script type="text/javascript">
_msq_qaid=64;
</script>
<script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.musqo.net/analytics/analytics.js"></script>
<!-- End Musqo Analytics Tag --></div>Peggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14667746210133305897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-831186914102885023.post-1111546355882971602024-03-12T07:40:00.006-04:002024-03-12T07:40:37.046-04:00Technical Repair<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"> Robby had his enrichment classes yesterday which means that I spent the majority of my afternoon in the car, driving him to and fro. Since it was Monday and his "short class," I opted to stay in the area and run some errands while he was at school. After swinging by Starbucks for an iced tea, I headed to the 3d print supply store. One of Robby's machines is starting to malfunction and we needed a simple replacement part. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Although typically the technical arm of our family, Scott has avoided interacting with the 3d printers. Whenever there is a clog or another type of malfunction, Robby and I are the ones at the kitchen table taking the machine apart. I have become quite versed at troubleshooting and repairing these frustrating little machines. I'm not sure how I ended up wearing the 'repair woman' hat but here I am, living the dream.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Because I work with the machines everyday, I am quite competent picking up my own parts and supplies. Perhaps this is one of the reasons I was so annoyed when the sales clerk at the store kept encouraging me to "phone my husband to make sure I am picking up the right thing for him." Seriously? Assuming that a woman needs a husband to complete a technical repair is infuriating!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I remember being young and car shopping with my mom. Well, I remember going to the lot with her and her being refused a test drive until she came back with her husband. That was in the 1980s. This is 2024. We need to do better.</span><br /></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><!-- Start Musqo Analytics Tag -->
<script type="text/javascript">
_msq_qaid=64;
</script>
<script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.musqo.net/analytics/analytics.js"></script>
<!-- End Musqo Analytics Tag --></div>Peggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14667746210133305897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-831186914102885023.post-6743405173639267552024-03-11T07:38:00.004-04:002024-03-11T07:38:34.706-04:00Overwhelmed<p> The rain and wind forced us inside again this weekend. Sigh. I really wish we were gifted a huge snowstorm this year instead of the consistent cold rain that has been falling all season. This winter, like so many in the years past, has been a complete dud. Oh well. At least my daffodils are blooming and look happy waving from the yard.</p><p>I should have spent our weekend inside cleaning and packing. Instead I streamed Oppenheimer and worked on my computer in front of a roaring fire. At least I was productive- albeit not around the house. One of these days I really need to get back into packing and organizing or we are never going to move out of this house.</p><p>Did I mention that I feel overwhelmed?<br /></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><!-- Start Musqo Analytics Tag -->
<script type="text/javascript">
_msq_qaid=64;
</script>
<script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.musqo.net/analytics/analytics.js"></script>
<!-- End Musqo Analytics Tag --></div>Peggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14667746210133305897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-831186914102885023.post-91998149456103948542024-03-08T07:57:00.003-05:002024-03-08T07:57:23.773-05:00Another Email<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"> I have come to the conclusion that our family must look odd from an outside view. Robby's room is littered with WWII military artifacts while my basement has been converted to a small warehouse to store the items for his traveling holocaust museum. While it has become normal for us to discuss both historical and contemporary military tactics over the dinner table, I recognize that this is not fodder for normal family conversations. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Timmy, heavily influenced the adoration for his big brother, has become a sponge for the WWII knowledge and trivia that Robby offers up on a regular basis. Because of this, Timmy has a unique insight and perspective that is not held by most 9 year olds. Unfortunately, he has to learn that what is comfortable conversation at home may not be appropriate for school.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Yesterday I received (another) email from Timmy's teacher reprimanding him for discussing "war" in school. He had been reprimanded earlier in the week for hosting an epic battle between his "geometry city" and two of his classmates cities. The boys had a great time playing their game until it was shut down by their teachers. We told Timmy that he wasn't allowed to play war in school and I thought the issue was closed.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">The email yesterday took me off guard because Timmy's teacher accused him of referencing war again during a class discussion. It turns out that the class was learning about evaluating sources on the internet to determine if they are authentic or propaganda. Timmy was asked to explain propaganda. He replied, "Well, anything that was written by Joseph Goebbels was propaganda for sure. He tried to scare everybody with his hate."</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">His teacher was offended. Timmy was removed from the classroom and put into a private "break out room," which is the equivalent of detention, for talking about war. My issue with this is that he didn't talk about war. He referenced a historical example of extreme propaganda. I disagree with his punishment, but I'm not sure if I should just let it go or push back. </span><br /></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><!-- Start Musqo Analytics Tag -->
<script type="text/javascript">
_msq_qaid=64;
</script>
<script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.musqo.net/analytics/analytics.js"></script>
<!-- End Musqo Analytics Tag --></div>Peggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14667746210133305897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-831186914102885023.post-22901450499143943782024-03-07T07:41:00.005-05:002024-03-07T07:41:57.233-05:00Happy Birthday Scott<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"> Today is special in our family because it is Scott's birthday! </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Our family loves birthdays and any reason to celebrate. Even though Scott isn't delighted with adding a digit to his year, he is looking forward to our family party. A favorite dinner, a few presents, a lot of doting and a red velvet cake will top off the celebration tonight. His birthday marks the beginning of our family busy season.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">The spring and early summer have always been heavy with birthdays, anniversaries and various reasons to celebrate. This year the parties will be magnified because we are adding graduations and retirements to the mix. I feel like I've been treading water to stay afloat in a stressful 2024. Everything is about to get considerably more complicated as we try to navigate retiring, college and moving within the next few months.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I suppose I'll worry about packing, moving and living with a retired husband later. Today is all about celebrating Scott. The boys are so lucky to have him as their dad. I am so lucky to have found him! </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Happy Birthday Scott!</span><br /></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><!-- Start Musqo Analytics Tag -->
<script type="text/javascript">
_msq_qaid=64;
</script>
<script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.musqo.net/analytics/analytics.js"></script>
<!-- End Musqo Analytics Tag --></div>Peggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14667746210133305897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-831186914102885023.post-57400611798797958392024-03-05T07:14:00.001-05:002024-03-05T07:14:08.243-05:00Battle Ready<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"> It feels odd in the house this morning. Scott is home because schools are closed for election day. It feels strange having him home, not being ill, on a random Tuesday. I suppose this is a peek at what our future may be with him being retired. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">It's always a little harder to get everybody on their schedule when Scott is home from work. The boys tend to want to mirror their father and lounge. Unfortunately for them, they do have school today. Sigh. I know that I am going to have to be the bad guy (again) and insist upon logging in. I suppose I am worried that these one-off battles will become an everyday occurrence when Scott is retired and home each day.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I guess I can worry about that next year. In the meantime, I'll fortify myself with some more coffee and prepare for battle.</span><br /></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><!-- Start Musqo Analytics Tag -->
<script type="text/javascript">
_msq_qaid=64;
</script>
<script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.musqo.net/analytics/analytics.js"></script>
<!-- End Musqo Analytics Tag --></div>Peggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14667746210133305897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-831186914102885023.post-34361815572065413782024-03-04T07:37:00.000-05:002024-03-04T07:37:07.894-05:00MerMagic Con Wrap-Up<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"> We had an amazing- I mean 'mer-mazing' weekend! Although we were busy and we aren't starting the week feeling refreshed or ready, the past few days have been fantastic. Robby's FlexyFriends were very well received at both the craft fair and the MerMagic Con. We thoroughly enjoyed meeting so many people and making new connections. It is fun to watch FlexyFriends grow and expand into new areas.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">On Saturday Robby and Scott were in Leesburg at the Spring Bling Craft Fair while my sister and I were in Silver Spring at MerMagic Con. This was my first con event and it was spectacular. I've never before been around so many accepting, loving and completely body inclusive individuals. I wish I had the confidence to strut in shells and a tail!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Saturday evening the boys packed up in Leesburg and drove to the event hotel. Excited to embrace new experiences, we went out for Korean BBQ for dinner. Unfortunately it wasn't our favorite but we were thrilled to walk by a Burger Fi on the way back to the hotel so that dinner #2 could be secured. (Although we didn't enjoy the food, the experience was fun. Watching Scott try kimchi was worth the price of the meal!)</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Sunday morning we headed back to MerMagic Con for day #2. Robby and Scott were able to experience Mer culture and met so many wonderful people. They were even able to pose with some mermaids! </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">*A hint in case you ever meet a mermaid. Never ask a mermaid how much the silicone tail weighs. Apparently it was offensive. Every time I walked past that pod of mermaids they screeched at me because that is what angry Mers do. It was so funny and done in great fun, but it was certainly enough to embarrass my teen.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDfJ2eRg5iDUef9t-RjzkbTrm34miJbQCuUYbFQvNaroD9sXBqs3zrCt0UtD7tY8YCu1Qni6viD1y3AtUrXdZxtiZj9wumyDn1I6nnBRyZOyAWiAjMCHPXKIb6OOmXordXFAnt61vURVvl4Y_sEVHOsK38WfHwTAwcRC_Hi5fKue7gp561NJ2zhSVrJ6fM/s4624/PXL_20240302_135526010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3472" data-original-width="4624" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDfJ2eRg5iDUef9t-RjzkbTrm34miJbQCuUYbFQvNaroD9sXBqs3zrCt0UtD7tY8YCu1Qni6viD1y3AtUrXdZxtiZj9wumyDn1I6nnBRyZOyAWiAjMCHPXKIb6OOmXordXFAnt61vURVvl4Y_sEVHOsK38WfHwTAwcRC_Hi5fKue7gp561NJ2zhSVrJ6fM/s320/PXL_20240302_135526010.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv5TbFIRlqwJI6W2ND_l2pAEZMFIRUBDqdycSNwaTjvzgBpx1AkYXRLcRtqFsF3R4lByysuOo4iqOAttI8_HGuKDd3SFWOOrMYRMnFzWwJ2U91mSm_OJUU9eHF_Gm_9hodC9sgIpw4KHfyKrh-ivSPW48VIxyudTzCswq-i3mAWcpDyuB6TeB1BHX-a86I/s4624/PXL_20240303_143839216.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3472" data-original-width="4624" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv5TbFIRlqwJI6W2ND_l2pAEZMFIRUBDqdycSNwaTjvzgBpx1AkYXRLcRtqFsF3R4lByysuOo4iqOAttI8_HGuKDd3SFWOOrMYRMnFzWwJ2U91mSm_OJUU9eHF_Gm_9hodC9sgIpw4KHfyKrh-ivSPW48VIxyudTzCswq-i3mAWcpDyuB6TeB1BHX-a86I/s320/PXL_20240303_143839216.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigCfN3n7tv7vKsG81AfzBEvF4nDSSJI2gfjOyHgqzqYDHekvKZxCwkcA4V84IM0856IEq5UyaWx46YQOa5qjlmF_sOyh5b8GvOXz5C8MUaJtjP4Au_nEQBl7_FJVa8dzF0_xTa1hh5E_JtW6mH9NZDL4sCi4STLxUbpmZSsoqKAIUDewhgMigwLhtnOJPg/s4624/PXL_20240301_232504833.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3472" data-original-width="4624" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigCfN3n7tv7vKsG81AfzBEvF4nDSSJI2gfjOyHgqzqYDHekvKZxCwkcA4V84IM0856IEq5UyaWx46YQOa5qjlmF_sOyh5b8GvOXz5C8MUaJtjP4Au_nEQBl7_FJVa8dzF0_xTa1hh5E_JtW6mH9NZDL4sCi4STLxUbpmZSsoqKAIUDewhgMigwLhtnOJPg/s320/PXL_20240301_232504833.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG0yaW7huNCLtCejlibpMGibxPoQARuerxPBj7cdFDdU2XzpgZavYWM9DJQmnjUypsaSlt-lC_50sETt2qnYtj07XzCNd3DpyWoEUq2vQStUMfnV6PUPhDxuxfQs1FYPNf11bgo2Wg0Eo72OuG3RuYaTyigF-lV__TingRkvoggdvJNi-1BRX-qp4v-QJJ/s4624/PXL_20240302_215752837.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4624" data-original-width="3472" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG0yaW7huNCLtCejlibpMGibxPoQARuerxPBj7cdFDdU2XzpgZavYWM9DJQmnjUypsaSlt-lC_50sETt2qnYtj07XzCNd3DpyWoEUq2vQStUMfnV6PUPhDxuxfQs1FYPNf11bgo2Wg0Eo72OuG3RuYaTyigF-lV__TingRkvoggdvJNi-1BRX-qp4v-QJJ/s320/PXL_20240302_215752837.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOD0NChzEH8ZxRV8-nMzCVqxpBibUAZbL_pK0K4frGEipLw7p5l47Giy31UXBbchOCvN2KtiuzaV3TogJCRJx1GoQZNDGYEoQVGhEJl9PKecxuP59z4NXH1Us_nYfIljHABe-OcY9_Jfbbc1DtXnF5r5BlHA2qIJVDLGsxnbrE1yo399bIH12hJQiuG0dh/s4032/PXL_20240303_145158908.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOD0NChzEH8ZxRV8-nMzCVqxpBibUAZbL_pK0K4frGEipLw7p5l47Giy31UXBbchOCvN2KtiuzaV3TogJCRJx1GoQZNDGYEoQVGhEJl9PKecxuP59z4NXH1Us_nYfIljHABe-OcY9_Jfbbc1DtXnF5r5BlHA2qIJVDLGsxnbrE1yo399bIH12hJQiuG0dh/s320/PXL_20240303_145158908.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfglQIoH_5cyS6ncRvW5cCzfcdw-4YkUa2zW3KrBxhLCx4wrYydUZWoqdGNe9RQCWaLGHAUgsxqa5N1zTAf8FzzGEBbh-vpqpwbYuMRWVh9j3gT7WARmunnmAygUKQWQ9Pmbe11M_sAbadm5k9mRVcrq_SImW6IqbsMbj1znB_yVCWynUxDrNblXQwaMjZ/s4624/PXL_20240303_181458609.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3472" data-original-width="4624" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfglQIoH_5cyS6ncRvW5cCzfcdw-4YkUa2zW3KrBxhLCx4wrYydUZWoqdGNe9RQCWaLGHAUgsxqa5N1zTAf8FzzGEBbh-vpqpwbYuMRWVh9j3gT7WARmunnmAygUKQWQ9Pmbe11M_sAbadm5k9mRVcrq_SImW6IqbsMbj1znB_yVCWynUxDrNblXQwaMjZ/s320/PXL_20240303_181458609.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW_tqzhXWM3ZmGKyLu5-iBApLw8wM3XLi5P3pYQ1H1faxwymeGCsfYLhanAUhgq5s7KHLao8i1bLqIO4KPUylFxeTFETY6egYqk6B9TaYnY4LJ4AG5wUUJlrS5pKBmTHKKBEbIqVAoqfUvJ54MMkXj6yiPDKrRLTrjRiWTiFJiu-dJYfJ3a6v8TLq4IiOR/s1599/1156882231.jpg.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1599" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW_tqzhXWM3ZmGKyLu5-iBApLw8wM3XLi5P3pYQ1H1faxwymeGCsfYLhanAUhgq5s7KHLao8i1bLqIO4KPUylFxeTFETY6egYqk6B9TaYnY4LJ4AG5wUUJlrS5pKBmTHKKBEbIqVAoqfUvJ54MMkXj6yiPDKrRLTrjRiWTiFJiu-dJYfJ3a6v8TLq4IiOR/s320/1156882231.jpg.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /></span><p></p><p><br /></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><!-- Start Musqo Analytics Tag -->
<script type="text/javascript">
_msq_qaid=64;
</script>
<script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.musqo.net/analytics/analytics.js"></script>
<!-- End Musqo Analytics Tag --></div>Peggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14667746210133305897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-831186914102885023.post-18879152778481617092024-03-01T07:35:00.000-05:002024-03-01T07:35:00.892-05:00Big Weekend<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"> This weekend has been circled in red on our calendar since it was hung up on New Years Day. Our printers have been running nearly nonstop in preparation for our busy Flexy weekend. Thanks to a full family effort, we are able to set up in two separate locations for the weekend.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">On Saturday Scott and Robby are going to the Spring Fling Craft Fair in Leesburg. We attended the winter event and were warmly received. Despite bringing what we thought was ample stock, we ended up selling out before he end of the weekend. Unlike the December show, this event is only on Saturday but we are hopeful for a crowd.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">While the boys are in Leesburg selling at the craft fair, my sister is joining me for the day at the MerMagicCon in Silver Spring Maryland. This event, which was featured on Netflix, is the largest mermaid convention in the world. We are thrilled to have been invited to participate and are grateful to my sister for lending a hand. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">My sister is going to help me sell at the Mermaid show on Saturday. On Sunday, Robby and Scott will join me at the show to finish out the event. We have no idea what to expect but we are really excited for the event. It looks like so much fun!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Wish us luck with our FlexyFriends sales! </span> <br /></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><!-- Start Musqo Analytics Tag -->
<script type="text/javascript">
_msq_qaid=64;
</script>
<script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.musqo.net/analytics/analytics.js"></script>
<!-- End Musqo Analytics Tag --></div>Peggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14667746210133305897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-831186914102885023.post-51094006649948976082024-02-29T07:46:00.001-05:002024-02-29T07:46:05.782-05:00ADVOCACY OPPORTUNITY<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"> Like most of everything else in the medical community, prosthetics and access to those devices are determined by the insurance industry. Specific to prosthetics, CMS sets the standard for coverage and availability. For an amputee, their assigned K-level will ultimately lead the determination for what technology a patient will receive. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">The K-Level is a functional level assigned to each amputee by their physician. Ironically, most doctors aren't familiar with K-levels and rely heavily upon the prosthetists' recommendation. The higher the k-level, the more active the patient. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Currently, microprocessor knees are covered by insurance for individuals who are labeled k-3. K-3 are higher activity individuals- a simplified version is a mild weekend athlete. Someone who is busy throughout the day, walks on several surfaces without an issue and can traverse stairs and ramps. K-2 individuals have been limited to mechanical knees in lieu of the technology.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Numerous studies have proven that microprocessor knees, especially with their stumble recovery, are life changing for the k-2 population. The computer technology has shown vast improvement in both the mobility and the quality of life for above-knee amputees for more than a decade. Finally, CMS is considering changing the classification for microprocessor knees to allow access to the k-2 population.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">A draft LCD has been proposed to allow access to microprocessor technology for this community. You can read the <a href="https://www.cms.gov/medicare-coverage-database/view/lcd.aspx?LCDId=39777">proposal here</a>. I hope you consider writing an email of support for this draft LCD. This technology is changing lives! </span></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><!-- Start Musqo Analytics Tag -->
<script type="text/javascript">
_msq_qaid=64;
</script>
<script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.musqo.net/analytics/analytics.js"></script>
<!-- End Musqo Analytics Tag --></div>Peggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14667746210133305897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-831186914102885023.post-62395101242403218042024-02-27T07:49:00.005-05:002024-02-27T07:49:40.032-05:00Ungrateful Cat<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"> In the wee hours of Monday morning, while the world was still awake, our house was in chaos courtesy of our tripod cat. Kitty-Kitty, our three-legged cat whom I rescued from Louisiana after she was shot, decided to urinate all over Timmy's new futon mattress. It was thoroughly soaked, forcing us to move it out of his room so that he could sleep. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I spent the afternoon cleaning the mattress. After washing, steaming and dousing it with enzyme cleaners, the odor has finally been removed. The large mattress is currently folded over our banister drying and waiting for the waterproof cover that is going to be delivered within the next few days. Throughout the entire ordeal I quietly cursed the cat. This cat, who was not easy or cheap to rescue, has vacillated between indifference and hatred. She does not make it easy to adore her.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Kitty-Kitty must have sensed that she went over the line by peeing all of the futon because this morning she attempted to redeem herself. Yet again we were woken in the wee hours of the morning with cat commotion. This time she was flinging a small mouse against my bedroom wall. Friend, eager to play, was cheerfully barking and trying to get a turn at the vermin. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Thankfully Scott was home so removing the mouse was easy. (I stayed under the covers and hid my head while he scooped it into a bucket and took it outside.) Kitty-Kitty may hate us, but apparently she hates mice more.</span><br /></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><!-- Start Musqo Analytics Tag -->
<script type="text/javascript">
_msq_qaid=64;
</script>
<script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.musqo.net/analytics/analytics.js"></script>
<!-- End Musqo Analytics Tag --></div>Peggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14667746210133305897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-831186914102885023.post-74928675710912084222024-02-26T07:49:00.001-05:002024-02-26T07:49:05.090-05:00Dance<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"> This was a big weekend for my not so little Koopa. On Saturday he dressed up and went to his winter dance. His school dances are hosted in the gymnasium and tend to be less formal than the public school affairs. Because of this, most of the kids tend to go in sport coats and jeans. Robby wore nice slacks, a button down shirt and a jacket. Although it wasn't perfectly fitted for him, he was excited about the dance and I thought he looked very handsome. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I made a mistake by sharing the photo on Facebook. I knew that the jacket wasn't fitted properly but I assumed that my 'friends' would simply see what I saw- a happy young man looking forward to a dance. While most of my friends comments were positive, I did receive more than one private message that took me aback. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">"Such a handsome young man. He deserves a suit that fits. Do better next time Mom." </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">"Disheveled is one thing. This kid is wearing the wrong size. Not good."</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">These emails are not helpful and are hurtful by design. Why one would feel compelled to write and send a message like that to a 'friend' is beyond me. Perhaps it is time we all remember what we learned as young children. If you don't have anything kind to say, simply say nothing.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Robby had a great time at his dance. His suit jacket was taken off as soon as he arrived and took to the dance floor. He rocked out until they turned the music off at the end of the dance. When he came home he was on cloud 9 and was grinning from ear to ear. I don't care if his suit didn't fit perfectly, and neither did anybody else. </span></p><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb5hkR0DHSwmtxO3VR1D1R0GZ93624NDn9WEpZj-cHzevqlHszWfrwzRwsZcDgJMpub2plt9i0BuVmKUZ66B3TBkpfpIpAEvqtMOtl109p3xYa1zG_tSBbh3jqBP-RphGwsDD0dGubsSGUWCrz8lMzgeww9RgiXv1qGKewA0T__4lPQia1Sfev-OigmZZn/s4624/PXL_20240224_233102754.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4624" data-original-width="3472" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb5hkR0DHSwmtxO3VR1D1R0GZ93624NDn9WEpZj-cHzevqlHszWfrwzRwsZcDgJMpub2plt9i0BuVmKUZ66B3TBkpfpIpAEvqtMOtl109p3xYa1zG_tSBbh3jqBP-RphGwsDD0dGubsSGUWCrz8lMzgeww9RgiXv1qGKewA0T__4lPQia1Sfev-OigmZZn/s320/PXL_20240224_233102754.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><!-- Start Musqo Analytics Tag -->
<script type="text/javascript">
_msq_qaid=64;
</script>
<script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.musqo.net/analytics/analytics.js"></script>
<!-- End Musqo Analytics Tag --></div>Peggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14667746210133305897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-831186914102885023.post-75052681411416998662024-02-23T07:23:00.004-05:002024-02-23T07:23:54.229-05:00Printing<p> Happy Friday!</p><p>Between Timmy's stellar report card, Robby's college orientation and his receiving the Billy Michal Leadership Award, this has been an amazing week for our little family. I think we are all reeling with the excitement of our good news. I'm happy it is Friday because we all need to recenter and get our heads back into the game. The school year isn't over yet, even if the end (graduation and retirement) are in sight.</p><p>This weekend will be spent cleaning, working and printing mermaids and dragons. Next weekend we are splitting our efforts between two events. It will be our biggest Flexy weekend ever! Robby and Scott will be selling at the Leesburg Spring Fling Craft Fair while my sister and I are setting up at MerMagic Con, the biggest mermaid convention in the world. We have no idea how much we will sell but I'm really looking forward to the event. I think it is going to be so much fun!</p><p><br /></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><!-- Start Musqo Analytics Tag -->
<script type="text/javascript">
_msq_qaid=64;
</script>
<script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.musqo.net/analytics/analytics.js"></script>
<!-- End Musqo Analytics Tag --></div>Peggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14667746210133305897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-831186914102885023.post-79323065073581121102024-02-21T07:24:00.004-05:002024-02-21T07:24:25.860-05:00Amazing Teen<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Robby spent Monday walking the campus of Shepherd, meeting with students and beginning to imagine his next four years. Hearing him talk about his experience he is a mixture of apprehension and excitement. He actually sent himself a text as a reminder of his enthusiasm and the positive orientation experience. He said that he wants to remember the good feeling that he had on campus when he starts to become scared and nervous about the transition. He is so much like me! I know that the next few months are going to fly by and soon he will be packing up for his new college home. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">His excitement has not been limited to Shepherd University. Robby was informed on Monday that he was selected as the Virginia recipient for the Billy Michal Leadership Award, presented through the National World War II Museum. This award, an accolade bestowed after an external nomination process and essay submission, is an amazing honor. He was selected because he is a good kid who tries to help out in his community, and I could not be prouder!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Robby and I are to be flown down to New Orleans over Memorial Day weekend for the award banquet and related activities. This weekend is situated between my 50th birthday, his 18th birthday and his graduation. Talk about an amazing way to celebrate all of milestones!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I'm so incredibly proud of my amazing teen.</span></p><p><br /></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><!-- Start Musqo Analytics Tag -->
<script type="text/javascript">
_msq_qaid=64;
</script>
<script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.musqo.net/analytics/analytics.js"></script>
<!-- End Musqo Analytics Tag --></div>Peggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14667746210133305897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-831186914102885023.post-52032667774681400032024-02-20T07:26:00.003-05:002024-02-20T07:26:52.188-05:00Orientation<p><span style="font-size: medium;"> Yesterday was a big day for my not-so-little Koopa. He spent the day at Shepherd University at a new student orientation event. It is so hard to fathom that he is getting ready for college. Wasn't he just in kindergarten? </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">As much as I'm not ready I know that he is going to thrive. He was nervous yesterday but feigned confidence until it was authentic. He thoroughly enjoyed the course that he sat in on and he even spoke to some of the other students. I know it isn't going to be an easy transition but he is ready and he is going to do great. The countdown has begun.</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3EPL3uzshfEDFtNJ_Ijhmx-kRnJmrxR4GKB-l0HddVtwDzw_i9lzGmNZ9I7dnIFY8tG20nU18Bqt8HKzVjiK6py0ttkMQp1xxVijjrr7yCdAvqaHtuTfosL1yXbr9fjsMrSsC5zIokDMkok4WosQIDaZQDzkfULk05NOjfMf-Qj3RwZFyJ7RjgNSuHR3V/s4624/PXL_20240219_143830979.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4624" data-original-width="3472" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3EPL3uzshfEDFtNJ_Ijhmx-kRnJmrxR4GKB-l0HddVtwDzw_i9lzGmNZ9I7dnIFY8tG20nU18Bqt8HKzVjiK6py0ttkMQp1xxVijjrr7yCdAvqaHtuTfosL1yXbr9fjsMrSsC5zIokDMkok4WosQIDaZQDzkfULk05NOjfMf-Qj3RwZFyJ7RjgNSuHR3V/s320/PXL_20240219_143830979.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><br /><p><br /></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><!-- Start Musqo Analytics Tag -->
<script type="text/javascript">
_msq_qaid=64;
</script>
<script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.musqo.net/analytics/analytics.js"></script>
<!-- End Musqo Analytics Tag --></div>Peggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14667746210133305897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-831186914102885023.post-35266432093665425252024-02-16T07:29:00.004-05:002024-02-16T07:29:36.682-05:00Ready<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"> After another non-snow event it seems that we have another chance this weekend. Fingers crossed we will get something playable! Timmy's sled has been sitting in the middle of our yard, readied on a hill, since the last non-snow event. It has become an odd symbol of our uneventful winter.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Today Robby has his enrichment classes which means that I will spend the majority of my day driving. On Monday he goes to Freshman orientation at Shepherd University. I'm determined to enjoy this forced time together in the car while we have it!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">This weekend will be spent cleaning, recovering from a cold and preparing for the orientation. Robby will be getting his college ID photo on Monday and has requested a haircut. I can't believe that this is all happening! I know that I had 18 years to prepare, but I'm not ready. Fortunately, I know that he is.</span><br /></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><!-- Start Musqo Analytics Tag -->
<script type="text/javascript">
_msq_qaid=64;
</script>
<script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.musqo.net/analytics/analytics.js"></script>
<!-- End Musqo Analytics Tag --></div>Peggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14667746210133305897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-831186914102885023.post-16890610350510102102024-02-15T07:31:00.003-05:002024-02-15T07:31:14.328-05:00The Valentine Boogie<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">We didn't have a lot of money growing up. A testament to my mother, I was unaware of our financial situation. While I knew that she worked several jobs after my Dad left, in my young mind it was simply because she was a dedicated teacher. In the day she taught high school students. At night she would teach adult GED classes. I thought she just really loved to teach.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Growing up, we didn't celebrate Valentine's Day with candy and treats on February 14th. Valentine's Day was for school parties and cards. We didn't get our Valentine's treats until the evening of February 15th, when the "Valentine Boogie" would come before dinner and leave the surprises on our plates. Throughout my childhood, I had no idea that the Valentine Boogie was invented so that candy could be secured at 50% off. I simply accepted that Valentine's Day candy boxes were exchanged on the 15th.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I remember going to school and excitedly asking my teacher if the Valentine Boogie came to her house. I absolutely adored this teacher, so when she laughed in my face it really stung and has stayed with me 40+ years later. I still didn't know that it was unusual to exchange candy on the 15th. Instead, I assumed that the Valentine Boogie was selective and didn't visit every house. I never publicly mentioned him again although I eagerly anticipated his arrival every year.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Although it wasn't the 15th, I decided it was time to resurrect the Valentine Boogie. Last night I decorated the dinner table "Valentine Boogie style" with a basket of treats and cards arranged artfully at each place. The boys were ecstatic when they came out to dinner and discovered their surprises. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Whether or not the Valentine Boogie came to your house, I hope you had a great day!</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgno5H6dy0iM1HEy5Me-ATAfqwURwxeUt5huYvTTjlBLVJqvR2X7vsqrSP7S10yl7XaHZxH7R-LFfg7BmDdspi00rH9RCmbW-wlpGMju-aP_GmmADWKp8Rq3l26mrQcEDHvwM2Uru63KfFMP2JWexDfgjIzkqsFE0YYjTDVTvWL-RZy35y9smuwb-8kGcVJ/s4624/PXL_20240214_221730455.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3472" data-original-width="4624" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgno5H6dy0iM1HEy5Me-ATAfqwURwxeUt5huYvTTjlBLVJqvR2X7vsqrSP7S10yl7XaHZxH7R-LFfg7BmDdspi00rH9RCmbW-wlpGMju-aP_GmmADWKp8Rq3l26mrQcEDHvwM2Uru63KfFMP2JWexDfgjIzkqsFE0YYjTDVTvWL-RZy35y9smuwb-8kGcVJ/s320/PXL_20240214_221730455.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><!-- Start Musqo Analytics Tag -->
<script type="text/javascript">
_msq_qaid=64;
</script>
<script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.musqo.net/analytics/analytics.js"></script>
<!-- End Musqo Analytics Tag --></div>Peggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14667746210133305897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-831186914102885023.post-27367993359105574572024-02-13T07:37:00.001-05:002024-02-13T07:37:08.141-05:00Proud Momom<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"> I am waking up this morning an incredibly proud Momom!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Yesterday Timmy received his report card and received stellar comments and marks. He has grown academically and socially compared to this time last year. His teachers describe him as kind, caring, empathetic and hardworking. His teachers also remarked on his interesting perspectives. "Timmy at times does not appear to be paying attention during lessons. However, when we ask him a clarifying question to check his understanding, he often offers insights that are accurate yet completely unique." </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">A clear example occurred last week when Timmy's class was learning about cultural traditions in India, including funeral pyres and bathing in the rivers. After the presentations the class had a discussion about what they learned. Timmy's contribution was "Well, learned that I will never go fishing in India." I had to chuckle when I read that line. His teacher, who is absolutely
amazing, must have worked a long time on the wording in his report card as to not offend.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">In the afternoon Robby received a letter awarding him a scholarship to help pay for college. He has been applying for every applicable scholarship since he was accepted back in September. I am so incredibly proud of him!</span><br /></p><p><br /></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><!-- Start Musqo Analytics Tag -->
<script type="text/javascript">
_msq_qaid=64;
</script>
<script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.musqo.net/analytics/analytics.js"></script>
<!-- End Musqo Analytics Tag --></div>Peggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14667746210133305897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-831186914102885023.post-70088400211807335672024-02-12T07:44:00.002-05:002024-02-12T07:44:18.468-05:00Flexy Friends at the Mall<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGXC4jz_T2IJUxWhBPC0tU7ZRuEBlmrSU62GdsA2OWx4P51Gwdks7M14_i8GL6SAENKpUfEZMujpTvLioernkyqQjtL8hb-KSQVmNe2PX6JOCZ1IieMD3PlBtfrv4xP2PcXuKCk7xXLXV4tf1_n3xJa8OlmX89G_SNvhpAQ01noEVb6dikfPu4GD31xl0p/s4624/PXL_20240210_152701158.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3472" data-original-width="4624" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGXC4jz_T2IJUxWhBPC0tU7ZRuEBlmrSU62GdsA2OWx4P51Gwdks7M14_i8GL6SAENKpUfEZMujpTvLioernkyqQjtL8hb-KSQVmNe2PX6JOCZ1IieMD3PlBtfrv4xP2PcXuKCk7xXLXV4tf1_n3xJa8OlmX89G_SNvhpAQ01noEVb6dikfPu4GD31xl0p/s320/PXL_20240210_152701158.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikcs4Il-8k6TkY-pyrUlwvpfRuBapVVY08xJLkdtRpQhvaVBP7oRLgIDRW8TCLKFcM2aqnolT93vPpwA7hBcalJC4U6It_8Fj7ipB9oMnhHh_-K2NfHvJWQIVcJstW7uBSSBDFruk059gFbjdHe-Lkue6AALd55c8fCL_HryBRUaVwtmxv-R8_yvl_SVhP/s4624/PXL_20240210_152709616.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3472" data-original-width="4624" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikcs4Il-8k6TkY-pyrUlwvpfRuBapVVY08xJLkdtRpQhvaVBP7oRLgIDRW8TCLKFcM2aqnolT93vPpwA7hBcalJC4U6It_8Fj7ipB9oMnhHh_-K2NfHvJWQIVcJstW7uBSSBDFruk059gFbjdHe-Lkue6AALd55c8fCL_HryBRUaVwtmxv-R8_yvl_SVhP/s320/PXL_20240210_152709616.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />This weekend was busy for FlexyFriends. We set up at the mall in Frederick on Saturday. We were uncertain about how successful or busy we would be considering that the holidays have been over for awhile. We were overwhelmed by the welcome back to the mall. So many repeat customers came back to visit, to chat, and to buy some new FlexyFriends. It was a great weekend!</span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">We packed up and got home just in time for the Super Bowl. Scott and Timmy settled into our bed with a smorgasbord of junk food spread out before them. (The crumbs of which were embedded into my sheets and covers.) I tried to get into the game but I really didn't care about either team. I did enjoy the nachos and the commercials, so the evening wasn't a complete waste for this non-football momom.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Since we were selling all weekend, I am feeling a little overwhelmed this morning. Typically I'm able to spend Sunday afternoon getting things ready for the upcoming week. I lost that time, so now I feel like I'm scrambling. Wish me luck!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Have a great day!</span></p><p><br /></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><!-- Start Musqo Analytics Tag -->
<script type="text/javascript">
_msq_qaid=64;
</script>
<script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.musqo.net/analytics/analytics.js"></script>
<!-- End Musqo Analytics Tag --></div>Peggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14667746210133305897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-831186914102885023.post-62718097729085876452024-02-09T07:35:00.004-05:002024-02-09T07:35:41.651-05:00Back to the Mall<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"> Yesterday was frustrating. The pain through my ill-fitting socket forced me to sit and readjust my leg throughout the day. Despite my efforts I failed to find complete comfort. Instead, I struggled with trying to maintain a basic level of comfort. I felt like I was constantly fiddling with socks and pads in my elusive quest for a prosthetic fit.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Although I would not declare comfort, I am functional. The discomfort in my leg is nagging but not painful. I'm still hoping to stumble upon the perfect padding configuration, but in the meantime I can accept and function with my current prosthetic situation. I know that it won't really resolve until I get a new leg. Sigh. I guess I can't put it off much longer.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">This weekend will be busy at the mall selling FlexyFriends. We haven't been there since December and it is going to be interesting to compare the pre and post holiday crowds. (Hopefully we won't notice much of a difference!) </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Wish us luck!</span><br /></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><!-- Start Musqo Analytics Tag -->
<script type="text/javascript">
_msq_qaid=64;
</script>
<script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.musqo.net/analytics/analytics.js"></script>
<!-- End Musqo Analytics Tag --></div>Peggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14667746210133305897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-831186914102885023.post-57326712093714933192024-02-08T07:41:00.004-05:002024-02-08T07:41:41.216-05:00Socks and Liners<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Although Hamlet is frustrated and sad about our lackluster winter, I have to admit that Friend and I are content with the happier temperatures. It feels like early April outside. Even the flowers are starting to peek out of the ground. Of course, next week we are anticipating another snow storm, so they will probably be shocked back into the soil.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Snow or no snow, today is going to be gorgeous. My leg is not feeling fantastic. I'm continuing to lose weight which is causing my socket to become floppier fitting by the day. I had a nice little system of pads which was functional and keeping me comfortable. Something has changed over the past few days and now my adaptations are no longer working. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I'm sitting on the couch this morning with my box of blister band-aids and a variety of socks, pads and liner segments. I'm hoping to find a new combination that allows me to continue to walk comfortably. I know the only true solution is getting a new leg, but that process is so frustrating. Of course, not being able to walk comfortably is more aggravating. </span><br /></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><!-- Start Musqo Analytics Tag -->
<script type="text/javascript">
_msq_qaid=64;
</script>
<script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.musqo.net/analytics/analytics.js"></script>
<!-- End Musqo Analytics Tag --></div>Peggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14667746210133305897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-831186914102885023.post-3912546424961082032024-02-06T07:49:00.002-05:002024-02-06T07:49:24.585-05:00Raccoon Encounter<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Yesterday morning Friend and I had quite a fright when we went out on our morning walk. He started to whine to go outside early but I figured it was a nice day and that he just wanted to play. As soon as I opened the door he took off galloping towards the side yard. He pulled so quickly that my arm was thrown up into the door frame, bruising my wrist. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Friend continued to pull sled dog style towards the side yard as I quickly retracted his leash to pull him closer to me. As soon as I got him to my side an extremely fat and aggressive raccoon sauntered out from under the wheelbarrow. While Friend was eager to make an acquaintance, the raccoon reared up and started to scream. We were close enough to see his menacing claws.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I scooped up Friend who was barking and squirming to go play with his new furry buddy. The raccoon and I screamed at simultaneously as I stood still holding my frantic pup. Slowly the raccoon stood down, turned and sauntered back into the side yard. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">I understand that the raccoon has every right to live in the woods, but I am a little concerned with the aggression in the middle of the morning. Today I'm going to research ways to make the woods more inhospitable for raccoon habitation. If you have any tips, please send them my way!</span></p><p><br /></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><!-- Start Musqo Analytics Tag -->
<script type="text/javascript">
_msq_qaid=64;
</script>
<script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.musqo.net/analytics/analytics.js"></script>
<!-- End Musqo Analytics Tag --></div>Peggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14667746210133305897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-831186914102885023.post-5388492527445934392024-02-05T07:44:00.004-05:002024-02-05T07:44:57.568-05:00Extreme<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"> This weekend was busier than the norm. On Friday Scott and I enjoyed a rare night out without the kiddos. (It is nice having a resident teen available to babysit.) Scott is an avid fan of the band Extreme. He saw them in concert in the early 90s and has been dreaming of attending another show. After more than 30 years, the stars aligned and the band performed near us in West Virginia. To say that he was excited would be an understatement!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">We left for the show early with the hopes of enjoying dinner and some people watching at the casino before the band took the stage. As soon as we walked into the casino we were overwhelmed with loud rock music. Scott's face lit up in recognition. Apparently we had managed to park and walk into a side door adjacent to the stage. Through an unattended open door, Scott was able to watch the sound check of his favorite band. We were able to listen for about 20 minutes before we were noticed and the door was dutifully shut in our faces. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Although I am not a hugely familiar with all of the songs, I thoroughly enjoyed the show. The band put on an excellent performance. Scott was on his feet, dancing and singing for the entire two hours. He had an absolute blast! </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">After a late night drive home we woke early on Saturday and headed to a local community craft fair. We were busy throughout the four hour show. It was nice to be able to check out how some of the newer designs would be received. The next few weekends are busy with FlexyFriends sales events so it is night to have some insights into preferences so we can print accordingly.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Yesterday I spent the day cleaning and organizing the house. I managed to purge four contractor trash bags of garbage and 5 boxes for donation. Perhaps even more beneficial, my house no longer feels as cluttered and I feel like I have some breathing room. Today we are ordering the dumpster which will help us get rid of the big items that have been accumulating in corners. When that clutter is cleared, I think the house will feel so much lighter!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Today we are back to the grind. Have a great day!</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUZ-E5lfHkifQFe-T1maUL-IZOXaMUAY2s-aomfXG7m2_MR_vmnK2BztWouLyKwvtwynpZAuwS0REB-Tg6eKdA893tl3nAJmZF8K52xhkZgItthn7EtdWRPXrIFF9FDD8Q3uzqB-b81EZteY1782P6Ew-FzwyOiRvgAg0ZR4XokawmtH3BsrA7aI_AhhbH/s4624/PXL_20240202_221552238.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4624" data-original-width="3472" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUZ-E5lfHkifQFe-T1maUL-IZOXaMUAY2s-aomfXG7m2_MR_vmnK2BztWouLyKwvtwynpZAuwS0REB-Tg6eKdA893tl3nAJmZF8K52xhkZgItthn7EtdWRPXrIFF9FDD8Q3uzqB-b81EZteY1782P6Ew-FzwyOiRvgAg0ZR4XokawmtH3BsrA7aI_AhhbH/s320/PXL_20240202_221552238.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6dX7wfnE7vhOi1UVYYRw_Xmwk54woB92rp7YO78wEOrTSVQUrren-pl_Y4ouoS0TUHMx46M11IR9CRzWCXOpCUzF3fbga80mALBdeKdMYJ7_ynbApYY2AkSitEAmO14WcbGLIxeVNSdHuz1pM7jMIB7IEi7aUn0SEccLVBudsoTOD098RsVado33NMA6p/s4032/PXL_20240203_000811894.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6dX7wfnE7vhOi1UVYYRw_Xmwk54woB92rp7YO78wEOrTSVQUrren-pl_Y4ouoS0TUHMx46M11IR9CRzWCXOpCUzF3fbga80mALBdeKdMYJ7_ynbApYY2AkSitEAmO14WcbGLIxeVNSdHuz1pM7jMIB7IEi7aUn0SEccLVBudsoTOD098RsVado33NMA6p/s320/PXL_20240203_000811894.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWacAbooE7ZOKqGpBRVldsoIP86bWR5AIRFvkFIWo19mMJuaa8WYgJWaMrVPLlDNfD7PsqygCjlrQxZBQB8NMVCXbYqOz_KfIkLieg9JCnOYq1V78X1atJUCSVvAMKnQVKzGkrOgZWlfwuIiZFeY40w8GiiBiUfqiW80mzknvhqlaN8DCKmOSvy_FlV84B/s1599/1276585286.jpg.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1599" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWacAbooE7ZOKqGpBRVldsoIP86bWR5AIRFvkFIWo19mMJuaa8WYgJWaMrVPLlDNfD7PsqygCjlrQxZBQB8NMVCXbYqOz_KfIkLieg9JCnOYq1V78X1atJUCSVvAMKnQVKzGkrOgZWlfwuIiZFeY40w8GiiBiUfqiW80mzknvhqlaN8DCKmOSvy_FlV84B/s320/1276585286.jpg.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="blogger-post-footer"><!-- Start Musqo Analytics Tag -->
<script type="text/javascript">
_msq_qaid=64;
</script>
<script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.musqo.net/analytics/analytics.js"></script>
<!-- End Musqo Analytics Tag --></div>Peggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14667746210133305897noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-831186914102885023.post-84246545882110705742024-02-02T07:47:00.002-05:002024-02-02T07:47:14.205-05:00Pop-Up Show<p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">After more than a month away from the grind this weekend we will return to the FlexyFriends pop-up circuit. We have been printing nonstop since the New Year in anticipation of our winter and spring shows, the first of which is tomorrow. We don't expect it to host Black Friday sized crowds (although that would be amazing), but we are optimistic that sales will be steady. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">Unlike other shows, tomorrow's event is only four hours long. I'm glad we are tip-toeing back into the hustle rather than immediately jumping into a three-day event. My mind is still whirling from Scott's signing his retirement form and I need some time over the weekend to devise a plan for the next few months. If we are actually going to go forward with "the great plan," which is case because he signed his intent to retire form, we need to get moving on packing, selling, locating a new home and moving. All of these are supposed to be done by August. Looking at the stuff cluttering every corner of my home, I don't see that happening!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;">But before I even start to make a list or stress about selling FlexyFriends tomorrow I need to get through today. Robby has his enrichment classes, which means that I will spend several hours driving. The trips are long (only because of traffic) but I am learning to enjoy our time together. Next year he will be gone and I know that I will miss these opportunities.</span><br /></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><!-- Start Musqo Analytics Tag -->
<script type="text/javascript">
_msq_qaid=64;
</script>
<script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.musqo.net/analytics/analytics.js"></script>
<!-- End Musqo Analytics Tag --></div>Peggyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14667746210133305897noreply@blogger.com0