Victor Martinez trade has pushed me over the edge

I knew it was coming.

I knew it was bound to happen.

The likes of Tampa, Boston, Detroit were all interested in Cleveland Indians' Catcher Victor Martinez, and why shouldn't they be?

He has been the one constant with the Indians through the years since 1996.

He has developed into a fine catcher, 1st basemen, power hitter, team leader, and morale builder.

Oh, but no, that's not what Cleveland Indians' Management is looking for....they want cheap labor.

Even though Baseball is "America's favorite past time," they have morphed in with every other business and have followed suit --kick out the veterans, those employees who gives 200 percent, who WANT to give their all to their company, and hire young, preferably cute, dimwitted individuals to work for free.

If I hear one more time, "it's just a business," I will scream out loud. MLB and the team owners have ruined the game. Because they continue paying many of the selfish stars whatever they want, they will continue desecrating this great sport. The owners should have banned together and said, we refuse to pay AROD and Manny what they want so they have to come down and keep it on an even playing field. The owners did this to themselves and unfortunately have irreparably damaged the game and the heart of the fans.

We did not have this problem back in the day when players made 100 dollars a game, were not afraid to pitch more than 6 innings and kept strong in the off-season by actually working for a living. And many players DID play with just one team because they were devoted to that team. The owners coddle the selfish players, pay them what they want even if they don't produce (Travis Hafner) and unfortunately, the good, decent honest players like Victor Martinez become collateral damage and ultimately they and their families get screwed.

All morning Friday, Mom and I were doing the countdown. T minus 5, T minus 4. By the time we got to 1:30pm, we thought we may be home free. But no. WTAM's 2:30pm newscast eluded to the fact that it was only a matter of minutes before Victor was packing up and heading to Fenway.

I thought I could weather this storm. Not today. Even with my wonderful weekend with friends last week to recharge my spirit, it's not going to work today.

I shed a tear. I could not believe that MLB and the Cleveland Indians' management team could be so heartless, so money hungry that hard work, dedication, devotion, and allegiance meant nothing.

Used to be you could make a deal with a handshake. Those days are gone.

Used to be you would take care of your dedicated employees who wanted to stay and give their all for a company. Apparently those days are gone as well. I throw up when I hear of companies who toss out older employees who may need a month, 6 months or even a year after a long and illustrious career with the same company just because they do not want to pay their pension, their health or give them a nice retirement package.

I chuckle at how one of the players we got for Victor is recovering from "Tommy John Surgery." He could make a full recovery and become a huge star, but let's face it, he could never pitch again. We are already starting way behind the 8 ball with everyone we have received for Cliff and Victor.

My Mom has been an Indians fan for over seventy years. I have been a die-hard fan for almost forty years. We know what we speak.

I wish Mr. Dolan, Mark Shapiro and Eric Wedge would have followed in the footsteps of the Jacobs Family.

The players of the 90's STILL think of themselves as Cleveland Indians even if they moved on. The players of the 90's have only wonderful things to say about the Cleveland Indians' organization to this day--when it was run by Dick Jacobs and Mike Hargrove. Heck, Sandy Alomar, who works for the Mets now, slipped up in his interview with Rick Manning and Matt Underwood Friday and said he worked for the Cleveland Indians.

Now Sandy would be a wonderful manager or coach and that is exactly why he will not come back here--our current management staff and front office will never see what they have right in front of their eyes until it is detrimentally too late.

I admit it. I was more shaken by the Victor Martinez trade than any leading up to it this year, including my boy, Mark DeRosa.

As a true Cleveland Indian fan, it felt like Larry Dolan had just pierced a knife through my heart. I can never trust any management personnel again who has no problem looking you straight into the eye and lying to your face, and dispensing with you for no apparent or legitimate reason.

If it was not bad enough already, seeing the interview with Martinez as he breaks down and says he really hoped he would have stayed in the same uniform his whole career left me speechless. If that is not loyalty and commitment, I don't know what is?

Once I saw that, I had to press on still being at work, but it was difficult. It could happen to any one of us. No matter how much you give in this life to a family member, a spouse, an employer, you could be denied and disappointed and discarded for giving your all and doing a stellar job.

There is absolutely something wrong with that mentality.

I am not abandoning my Cleveland Indians. I abhor the Cleveland Indians Management Staff and Front Office. And God bless them if these moves eventually pay off in some way. I'm sure they will come back and make sure the world knows 'we knew exactly what we were doing when we traded away Cliff Lee and Victor Martinez.' However, they have betrayed my trust time and time again over the last 8 years. I will never trust this current management team again. If the Indians wind up winning, it's a win-win situation for all of us, but I don't have to like the top brass.

I will continue going to games because I really enjoy Cleveland Indians' Baseball.

Mom, on the other hand, does not want to renew our Seasons' Tickets. It will be very interesting to see what we do. In fact, being the vocal baseball lover she is, she has already contacted fan services & our ticket agent and told them they must lower their prices next year because she is not paying exorbitant prices to see a double A team!!! Go Mom! We've been Season Ticket holders since 1988 and the family has been going to games for over 70 years....

This was and is hard. True, it really has no bearing on my life except whether or not we opt to buy tickets next year and it is not a tragedy. But I refuse to let the unscrupulous antics of moronic individuals stifle my spirit, smother the life out of me, or keep me down for long.

Yes, I will continue to follow Cleveland Indians' Baseball. I WILL continue cheering for Casey Blake, Victor Martinez, Cliff Lee, Ben Francisco, Ryan Garko, Mark DeRosa, Rafael Betancourt, Jim Thome, Omar Vizquel and those who have a real history with this team.

I pray every day that ultimately good folks will triumph, that greedy SOB's will get their day, and that God gives me the strength, the peace-of-mind, and faith to lay my head down on my pillow each night having done my best knowing I have NOT screwed anyone as Larry Dolan, Mark Shapiro, and Eric Wedge do on a daily basis.

Cleveland EMS #10 almost slammed us

I can not believe that Cleveland EMS #10 almost crashed into us yesterday.

My Mom is still floored.

She holds many things sacred including doctors, religious, emergency personnel...

I've told her, Mom the world is changing and has changed since you've been in the workforce.

Trust no one.

Doctors are not God. Don't listen to them like they know what they are talking about. Many of them stack up patients like slabs of meat just to rake in the cash.

And today was a perfect example of how people who are supposed to save lives almost caused a horrific accident for whatever reason.

We were traveling down Fairhill into University Circle in the far right hand lane ready to make a right hand turn onto the road just before you reach the bottom of the hill when EMS #10 just about cut us off to make a right hand turn from the center lane.

Thank God I am a defensive driver or whomever was in my place would have been smashed.

I did not even toot. I should have but, in some sick way, still hold emergency personnel in high regard as well. Did not even get any road rage or flip them off.

I just shook my head and told Mom, 'exhibit A on how society has changed, they are less caring, less cautious and more self consumed and distracted.'

And we continued listening to and singing along with Frankie baby on Seriously Sinatra.

Emotional week for Cleveland Indians' fans

I have to thank the good Lord above for helping me cope with this week.

For those of you not interested in Baseball, Cleveland Indians Baseball, or any hobby, you are saying, 'this girl has to get a grip and prioritize.'

I admit, I am an extremely emotional person. I may not show it almost never. But, I even cry at certain commercials, when a favorite song comes on--especially if it fits in with the scene and sign of the times, and am extremely passionate when it comes to 'my' Cleveland Indians.

I have stuck with them through thick and thin. When everyone else is saying, 'they suck,' I am saying they have a great group of guys who will start coming together. I've believed that for years. I do not like Eric Wedge. I've never liked the 'snorting,' 'eye blinking' crazy guy who makes, in my estimation the worst decisions as a major league baseball manager.

I get the game of baseball. I understand the strategies. We HAVE had talent for years! We technically were one game away from winning the world series a few years ago--we just needed one more game and we would have most definitely creamed the National League Champs.

But no, we have a so-so catcher turned manager leading the pack.

That said, this has been quite the emotional week.

I was speechless when Ryan Garko was traded to the San Francisco Giants Monday. Seeing him walk to his car with all of his bags, just surreal. Then to hear him on STO a few days later saying he was STILL in shock and at times speechless. He did say he is now on the outside looking in and has seen quite a mess over the last week (in regards to the dealings going on with the Cleveland Indians).

To date, my favorite players have been dealt away one by one --Casey Blake, Mark DeRosa, and now Ryan Garko.

And what did we get for them, really? The guy in the Mark DeRosa trade came in and immediately beaned two Chicago White Sox --one of them in the head! Nice going Shapiro!

Then the big deal so far, Cliff Lee and Ben Francisco to the Phillies for 4 'prospects.'

We all saw this coming but still can not fathom it.

For the 2nd year in a row, an unprecedented move which no other team has ever done--trading away the Cy Young Award winner.

Now, if we were getting ANYTHING in return, then maybe. But so far, a bunch of young players who are not even worthy of the major league level who we will probably trade down the road for something else never even getting a chance to play in a Cleveland Indians' uniform.

I hope this all pans out and Mark Shapiro comes out smelling like a rose. But, I really hope Mr. Dolan has the balls to ditch Shapiro and Wedge. We have HAD the talent for at least 5 years. We have. It has been HOW the talent has been utilized. Heck, when you shake up the lineup every single night and the same player plays every position, that's not the players' fault. Hmmm!! You don't see that happening in New York. You don't see it happening in Tampa or Philadelphia unless the star is getting a needed night off.

I have been able to handle this up til now. At first, with Garko, I was a bit disappointed but fine with it.

I must admit, the weekend with my best college friends last weekend has given me the added boost to deal with adversity whether it has to do with family issues, caregiving decisions, work, or the little irritations that occur in daily life.

If I would not have had that jaunt, this entry would have a much different tone.

That said, I still believe in my heart of hearts we had, and to some extent, still have good major league ballplayers who are willing to give their all (except Travis Hafner, who should have been giving 75 percent of his salary back for the last 3 years).

I will never abandon 'my' Indians even though it appears Mr. Dolan, Mark Shapiro, and Eric Wedge did that a long time ago.

New Memories

Like night and day.

I was fortunate to steal away back in May for a long weekend with one of my dearest friends in Florida.

It was great. I enjoyed seeing my comrade as well as immersing myself in a weekend of baseball, another love of mine.

A terrific weekend of sun, fun, baseball, relaxation, cocktails, and catching up with a kindred spirit.


I can not begin to tell you how these two weekends are worlds apart from each other. Absolutely no parallel whatsoever--and that's not bad.

Has nothing to do with the company or participants --all are quite tremendous and so very dear to me.

Has nothing to do with the locations --both lovely and soothing. Well, I have to admit, it was much nicer in Ohio than it was down in FLA, but I enjoyed the steamy south baking in the sun.


I have not been able to put my finger on the elusive 'it' yet.


What I did notice is that this weekend there was a nice blend of old memories and making new memories.

I do believe that is the 'it' but I am not quite sure why or how that happens?!??!


Sometimes when I get together with old friends, whether it be school buddies, or former or current work confidants, it's a bunch of 'rehashing' the 'good ole days.' You laugh, you remember, you get a warm place in your heart going back in time. But there is no new growth causing you to stay back in time.

I love bringing up the past and laughing about ridiculous stories, but again, this weekend, we made so many new memories which heightened our pleasures and strengthened our bonds even stronger.

Making new memories is a surefire way to keep relationships growing, nurture current friendships, and tighten the ties that bind even tighter.

Tears streaming down my face

The minute I arrived at the Lake House, the laughter began and never stopped until I pulled out of the marina.

I can not remember a time when I laughed so long, so hard. My face was chapped by the tears streaming down my rosy cheeks, and my belly ached as we constantly chuckled.

A few times, I drifted into the family laughter trait where we make no sound and can not breathe because we are shaking, laughing, and have absolutely no control over our functions.

Then there is the snort, which many of us did back at college....and when the snort began again, the laughter picked up to a level not experienced in months.

I missed Terry's laugh. He has a wonderful laugh which I have missed hearing for 22 years. I did not even have to hear or know why he was laughing. Just hearing HIM and seeing him smile from cheek to cheek brought a smile to my face.

Being the finite person I am, I have no idea what Heaven will portray.

I sure hope it mimics the weekend I just spent with my dearest college friends.

A little easier pill to swallow

The night I arrived home from my dream weekend with my friends, I was sure the luster would start to dim and then fade.

And yes, though I knew I was back to civilization and started being tugged in all directions almost immediately, it was different.

I am different.

Oh, I suppose at some point the 'honeymoon' will be over.

It is different.

The problems that have erupted are easier to solve.

It seems I have a little easier pill to swallow these days, even though the problems persist, I've been thrown back into the same situation I left a few days ago.

I knew what was important before I left, first and foremost my family.

Seeing my extended family strenghtened that vow ever stronger.

I hope I can focus on the important and not let those 'little pieces of popcorn stuck in my teeth' bother me as much.

It's like we were never apart

Amazing.

I know many say this word is overused.

At this time, it is the only word I can verbalize and it still does not adequately describe the weekend I experienced with my best college friends.

My roommate Melanie and our friend Jim choreographed the entire weekend.

I had family obligations much of Friday but drove out to Catawba as soon as I finished up and made sure all the ducks were in a row on the home front.

I must admit, I was on. I left no stone overturned back home and no stone overturned at the Lake House.

The gang back home had enough food, treats, straightened house, an itinerary, and just about everything they needed to have a fabulous weekend without me and my overbearing organizational prowess.

Though I was going to be gone 2 days, my car was fully stocked, completely filled with clothes, memorabilia, 'goodies,' coolers, music, boom box, flowers and so much more.

I can not relay the feeling of liberation that came over me as I started driving out to the Lake on a beautiful Friday night with my Sirius radio blasting and the wind blowing through my hair.

Believe it or not, I had not had a bite to eat as I made my way west, but I thought of that too, and had cut up an apple in a ziploc baggie and had a few bottles of juice to make sure I had some sustenance for the long ride.

I really do not know what came over me. I was not worried about back home and was not afraid or anxious about the unknown in my weekend ahead.

I have seen most of these friends on a semi regular basis. There was one friend none of us had seen in 22 years. WOW! I can not even fathom that I have known these wonderful people for 26 years. And I truly love them all.

It would not be a weekend with college friends without contact issues. As I cruised west on Rte 2, my contact got all crazy and I had to take it out and then it was not properly in my eye for a few minutes while I contemplated what to do. As usual, it all worked out. I lost more contacts in my 4 years at college!

Just a heavenly weekend. Perfect weather. Jamming to Springsteen and the 80's to get me psyched even more for this long time coming reunion.

The drive time seemed to fly.

Finally when I approached the causeway, my adrenalin really started to skyrocket knowing I was mere minutes away from seeing my dearest friends in the whole wide world.

I weaved around the marina, looking, counting streets, looking for the reddish /brown shutters.

I did not need to do that. All at once I hear a loud scream of my college nickname almost driving off into the Lake.

I had arrived. I was home. I was among my dearest friends on this earth and in store for what turned out to be the best weekend I have had in a loooooong, looooooong time!

We picked up right where we left off 22 years ago.

It was as if we were never apart.

Soothing thoughts

"The Lord is my strength and my song; he has become my salvation...."
--Exodus 15:2


When life seems dark and difficult, we can always take comfort in God's infinite mercy and grace.


The power of prayer is amazing. God can give us strength and provide us with a sense of peace.


"...I do nothing on my own, but I say only what the Father taught me."
--John 8:28b


Faith gives us hope, courage and comfort in the most trying of times. With faith in God, we know we are not alone.

Love your enemies

Fuel that keeps me going....following in Jesus' footsteps:


"...Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you."
--Luke 6:27, 28

I Won't Dance - Frank Sinatra

Thoroughly enjoy jamming to Siriusly Sinatra with Mommacita. Now, this is classic music. It's too bad when the kids of today either won't widen their range of the arts and music and seriously think that today's music is the best music ever made.

Sheesh!!!

I can't feel your pulse

Not words that give me a sense of comfort.

In fact, if it were up to me, I'd erase that phrase from my vocabulary!

Mom's heart doctor and his assistant could not feel her pulse, yet she was wide-eyed, smiling, laughing and talking to them.

Thankfully, her heart doctor does not get overly concerned by this. His mantra is if you are talking, alert, do not feel light-headed and are not in a horizontal position, you are just fine.

Now, if I can only convince myself that everything will be ok.

Playing in the sand with the Cleveland Indians

Well, not really, but wouldn't that be a hoot!

It was Beach Weekend at Progressive Field!

I love this weekend.

They have done it for a number of years now and it's a treat for the kids and for those of us still 'young at heart.'

I'm a tropical girl anyway so sun, sand, and baseball = HEAVEN!

I just don't get it

I don't quite get it and never will.

Why people act the way they do?

Why I act the way I do sometimes?

Oh, I give great advice but do I take it?

I am reasonable, rational and talk through problems.

I always choose the moral answer.

When trouble is on the horizon, and the adrenalin starts flowing, humans can act crazy.

I've seen it a thousand times with illnesses we've struggled through, deaths, accidents, life-altering events, embarrassing times, you name it, we've seen it!

Some folks attack the problem or hardship head on.

Others ignore it.

Yet others run far and run fast.

You have to give people the benefit of the doubt even though the problem should not be the guiding force, it should be how much you LOVE the people dealing with the problem in order to lend your support.


I told a few close friends that Mom was having an operation.

Have I heard from them yet?


I just don't get it.

Good luck Nick & Missy

And because I am a bone head, I have no pictures of Nick and Missy!

Nick and Missy were servers in the Terrace Club at Progressive Field.

Being at Progressive Field often is a treat in a number of ways.

We enjoy a hobby we adore.

We spend quality time together.

We relax and escape from work or other issues for 3+ hours.

And we have an extended family--the people in your section, your usher, the vendors, and the folks who work up in and frequent the Terrace Club.

We knew Nick better than Missy. What a gem. Always bend over backwards for Mom. He continuously had a smile on his face and was one of the most pleasant young men we've met.

Missy was also a waiter/server.

They are moving to Houston, Texas after both finding fantastic teaching jobs down there.

Houston's gain is our loss.

However, Nick said he'd be back to visit next summer....gives us something to look forward too, especially since our Indians are not doing it for us this season.

We wish them well and the best of luck in their new venture!

Marathon day

Today was a marathon day.

I'm not complaining.

It's another medical day.

I'm gonna be vague.

On one hand, I don't really want anyone reading this to know exactly what kind of medical issues we have going on...suffice it to say, I do not have a right to complain in light of what my family member is about to endure.

She's been through so much and is about to get pummelled some more.

Of course, whenever we have something early, it's always a late night the previous day.

And sure enough.

A very very late evening allowing for only 2 hours of sleep.

Up early.

Hospital bound.

Delays.

You all know what I am talking about.

Even if you have the first appointment, there are delays and you wind up being at your appointment much later than expected.

Then you get the nurse who is counting the hours until vacation. Will she really be on her 'A' game?

And then they said they were on time, but you wait, and wait and wait......


All signs pointed to disaster...but you have to keep the faith!


It got to the point where we wrapped up almost two hours later than expected, just enough time for me to take my obligatory 5 minute shower and head into work.


Everything turned out fine....for now. This problem may develop time and time again.


You just have to roll with the punches and stay strong.


I just laugh when others complain over the slightest of issues knowing what we go through ever day. I also laugh when anyone says 'I am tired. I only got 6 or 7 hours of sleep.' Just walk in our shoes for a day or two! All you can do is laugh and wink at the good Lord above!!!!


I thank God every day for his guidance, his strength, his support and watching over us.


I also thank God every day for making me low maintenance, efficient, organized, focused, and a terrific multi-tasker.


He would never give us anything we could not handle.


He picked the right person for the job when giving me a major responsibility. I am honored to carry out your mission, Jesus.

You don't have to be reliable if you charge an arm & a leg

I guess if you charge an arm and a leg for your service, you really don't have to be reliable, prompt, or above board.

Contractors.

Plumbers.

Service personnel.

Painters.

Electricians.

You get the drift.

Now, don't get me wrong, I'm sure there are some reputable contractors out there, I've just not run across them yet!

We've had the worst luck with plumbers, et al.

One guy did our bathroom a few years ago. He put the cabinet in backwards and then said he was not going to fix it.

He left the light fixture 'hot' so that any one of us could have gotten 'zinged.'

Yet, we did not find these things out until it was too late and he had already been paid.

The next plumber put in our toilets --they were too small and the seat covers were unstable.

And less than a year after they were put in, one of them leaked.

At first, it was a slow leak but then revved up as time went on...

So, some guy on Facebook touted himself as a great plumber who would love the business.

Why not, isn't that what Facebook is for?

Well, the mother of a very good friend really needed a plumber so I gave her his name.

He did show up and fixed the problem.

We figured, what the heck, we'll have him take a look at our leaking toilet.

We called him up. We set a time. And thought, maybe just maybe, we have a reliable contractor.

Think again.

Thursday morning came much too early...and we waited...and waited....and waited.

With our history of Sears and every other contractor, figured we'd wait just a bit before calling.

Finally, we called.

He said, 'Oh, I forgot. I'm on a big sewer job.'

Does anyone have home training?

Write down appointments with a pencil.....put it in the computer....etch it in blood. And then when you can't make it, you call the customer?

No that makes too much sense!

Well, we took matters into our own hands, control of the situation and it is fixed (for now). 'Enuff' said!


I could expound on this specific issue one step further which opens a whole can of worms and is worth an entry all of itself. Men vs Women.

My male friend called THIS same plumber and he rushed right out there.

A female called him and he forgets.

Believe it or not, as the saying goes 'we've come along way baby.' But in reality, we have not!

Most dreaded day in baseball

Ok, so I exaggerate. It is not the most dreaded day in baseball for fans.

I'm sure many players love having 3 days off in the middle of the season so they can spend time with family, friends or just do anything besides their paying job.

There are other players who think this 3 day span messes up their stride, their momentum and they wish they could play right through the All-Star break.

For me, though it is one day, it's like a foghorn sounding all day long.

Monday of the All-Star break you have the home run hitting contest and other fanfare.

Tuesday is the actual All-Star game, and Victor Martinez was a wonderful representative for our Cleveland Indians. I still can not believe Charlie Manuel walked him!

Then Wednesday comes. No games. Nothing baseball. The minutes drag on like they are hours.

But there is that glimmer of hope that tomorrow ushers in a whole second half of the baseball season and we will have baseball through October.

Whether the Indians win or lose, I enjoy the game of baseball.

Even if they don't make it to the World Series, someone will and I will be there watching!

"Tick-a-lock"

There were many times today I so wanted to say something but refrained.

It has nothing to do with 'being afraid.' It has more to do with either having more tact than the next or just not wanting that pending battle once the flood gates open.

The gist of the reason for my 'tick-a-lock" --"You think YOU have it tough!"


Mom had 2 doctors appointments today. Every time I hear someone complain about their 'tough life,' I think about Mom. If the other person is getting overly obnoxious about how 'hard they have it,' I may give them an anecdote on Mom's day. That usually shuts them up.

Well, today I actually had it rough too --but again, not as rough as Mom at her 2 doctor's appointments. And, though she endured much pain, 1/2 the time she was thinking about me and getting to work in time for a big meeting.

Frankly Mom was more concerned about my BIG meeting than I, even after we found out she has to have surgery on Friday.

But, I DID have a very important meeting at work. A MUST attend meeting with corporate. In today's times, if it says MUST attend, I see that as MUST attend (though at least one person did not?!?!?).

It's unfortunate in today's times that 'corporate' and work must come before family and a sick Mom, but it does and no one thinks that is wrong (well I do).

Anyway, I made it to my big meeting with minutes to spare. God has given me a great gift of being efficient, organized, swift, and low maintenance.

I made sure Mom had what she needed before I left.

I had everything I needed for work and my big meeting.

But I ran out of time. We got home 8 minutes before I head to leave for work. That's what having TWO important doctors appointments will do to you.

I was unable to take a shower as I rushed out of the house.


Oh, I was fine.


But, the next time I hear someone complain about their life, their 'tough' load or complain about something absolutely ridiculous (that they THINK is a hardship in life when clearly it is not), I may just have to open the 'tick a lock' and share what we go through on a daily basis.

Pink - please don't leave me lyrics

Relationship with God??

Relationship with family??

Relationship with your self, your inner self??

Relationship with best friend?? (You know who you are Leepshin!!)

Pencil me in for our 'usual' time

I have a friend I consider my 'best friend' though really, what is a best friend?

I'm quite judgemental (toward myself as well as others).

He flunks many of the 'pre-requisites' for being a 'best friend.'

But, for now, he'll do! Just kidding. He's a gem (though he does have his short comings! See what I mean!!).

He's over 2,000 miles away. And, I think, can he still be my 'best friend?'

We don't talk as often as we used to and definitely do not see each other as much.

When he lived in town, we were inseparable.

And though he was in town, we still spent hours and hours on the phone!


However, I think I still 'can' consider him one of my best friends.

Honestly, I speak to him at least twice a week if not more --which is more than I speak to anyone else on the phone, including family.

I only see him about twice a year --but in those weeks, we are inseparable. During those visits, I see him more than I see many other friends and family members all year long.


The problem is coordinating our phone talks and visits.

It seems the only time we can 'pencil each other in' for our meaningful talks on the phone occupies a very small window of opportunity.

It's that 15-30 minutes when I am just getting off of work, and so is he.

It's the time of day when it does not impede my work because I am off the clock but I have not gotten home to my 'more important' job in life of being a caregiver.

Once I put that hat on, everything flies out the window and I have no time for anyone, for anything, for me, even short phone conversations.


So, a few times a week, I'll give him a buzz on the ride home hoping he has 'pencilled me in for our usual talk time.'

Grum's brings back 'Mango Man' memories

A co-worker spearheaded the charge for everyone to feast on Grum's subs today.

Those who've never eaten there or live West had never heard of nor tasted these masterpieces.

A whole sub is double the size of 'Subway.'

They have whole and half, hot and cold, and pretty much everything and anything you desire.

It was a united effort. Pretty much everyone working our shift joined in and dined on Grum's Subs.

I had the salami, vegie, provolone 1/2 sandwich.

I must admit, though I'm close, I rarely eat there--I rarely eat out!

The last time I had Grum's was with 'Mango Man.' 'Mango' was an old boyfriend who lived and worked in Cleveland Heights.

We had the most romantic date (though the rest of you may cringe.) Mango picked up Grum's Subs and we went down the road to Lakeview Cemetery for a sweet picnic on their beautiful grounds.

Now, for those of you not familiar with Lakeview Cemetery --very historical. James A. Garfield is buried there along with numerous other dignitaries, war heroes, ballplayers, etc. And you have a perfect view of Lake Erie, hence the name!

Ah, those were the days, 'Mango Man,' Grum's Subs and a time with so many less worries and concerns.

Sears mantra: Customer's never right & low priority

You've heard the Sears saga before.

Well, we thought it was over but are still in the midst.

Quick recap for those unfamiliar--

The fridge began leaking a month ago...we scheduled 4 appointments before we actually saw a service man because they never showed when they promised --even though we've had a service contract for nearly a quarter of a century.

The service man finally showed up and was gone for maybe 10 minutes when water started spraying everywhere in the sun room.

It was jumping through hoops to get him back.

A real union guy --he did not have an official work order so hesitated coming back even though there was water everywhere, he had just left and exacerbated the problem, and taking it one step further, caused the problem. I wonder if he had a service order to jump off a bridge, if he would do it just because he had the work order.


So, he ordered a part and said the warehouse may send you the entire part of just a section. If they send a section, you need to reschedule and have another service man come out.

Sure enough, they sent the ice holder with no cover.

Here we go again.

Customer Service (1-800-690-5650) told us the service man would be out between 8am and Noon. When we said we really need him to show up between this time frame because of medical issues, they told us to call the night before to firm up a time and get on the docket first.

We called back the night before at the request of Sears customer service.

They told us the man would be out at or by 9:20am. Where would we pull that number from? A Sears Customer Service gave us that time.

The morning arrived. No Sears rep. Still no sears rep. We called numerous times. Each time the Sears agent said they'd page him and have him call us. He never called.

Finally, he said he could arrive by 330pm. Far cry from 9:20am.


Sears Customer Service tells us it is the service man's fault.

The Service man blames Sears Customer Service.

Both throwing each other under the bus.

Would you like to work for a company like this? I sure would not.


Not only do they incessantly lie and go back on their promises, but they are the most unreliable company we've run across in a long time.


I was taught the customer is always right.....the customer should be priority one.....instead of letting a computer spit out the route or speaking via text, web, computer, maybe just maybe a little 'human touch' with extenuating circumstances and medical issues should take precedence.


Sounds like Sears does not take pride in a job well done anymore. Sears could give a darn about their service and their customers.


That's too bad because ultimately it is us, the paying consumer and customer, who loses out in the end.

Michael Jackson Memorial

I admit it. I was glued to the television and my Sirius Radio Tuesday.

I have been a Michael Jackson/Jackson 5 fan my entire life.

Did I fall to pieces when he passed away unable to carry on--no.

But, it's quite sad.

He was a genius when it came to entertainment, music, performing, writing, dancing--all which earned him the esteemed title 'King of Pop.'

Whether you liked him or hated him, you know about him and who he was. The simple fact that he had fans worldwide from the United States to Germany, Canada, Haiti, London, the West Bank and so on. ALL around the world. Be honest, what other entertainers can say that?

The Program began late, which I guess was understandable trying to usher everyone into the venue.

Then with the awkward beginning, I thought this may turn into a disaster.

However, when the ceremony finally began, everything fell into place.

Funerals or memorials are quite hard to get through if you are a 'performer.' I sing. I have done a number of funerals and it is hard to keep your composure, especially if the deceased is someone you know or someone close to you. You want to do your best but sadness overcomes causing a bit of crackling in your voice, tears streaming down your face.

Taking that into consideration, everyone did a fine job.

The program well put together. The only way it could have been any better is if MJ himself was in charge of this extravaganza.

I was surprised a few people were missing, but I'm sure they had their reasons.

It seemed every singer, performer, actor, segment hit home in some way and gave you a little different humanizing insight into this giant.

Smokey Robinson asking to see Michael's birth certificate not believing he was just a small chap....

Berry Gordy's family get together stories.....saying Motown was built on love and competition but love always won out. That's the way life should be!

Marlon telling the story of how they would come home after school, grab a bite to eat, and then watch the Three Stooges --my cousins and I would do that every day when my Aunt Lucy would watch us after school. Amazing!

The opening song, 'Soon and Very Soon,' is a song we sing regularly at my church. I just adore that song and wanted to start belting it out but thought better of it being at work!

Stevie Wonder saying God is good (which is something Mom says ALL THE TIME) and no matter how much we think we still need Michael, "God must have needed him more."

Kobe and Magic were great. Kobe sharing that Michael is in the Guinness Book of World Records for his charity...and Magic bringing laughter from the audience as he depicted he and Michael Jackson sitting on the floor of Michael's home eating Kentucky Fried Chicken!

Brooke Shields gave a nice, heart-warming pictorial of her best friend. "When we were together, we were two little kids having fun." I feel that same way about Craig, my best friend.

I don't want to exclude anyone but if you watched the memorial, you saw everyone.

I liked it all. A very fitting tribute done just right. I think my favorites were the musical tributes, especially John Mayer's performance, Usher's heart-wrenching song, Jermaine singing Michael's favorite song, 'Smile' and then Jennifer Hudson's performance.

I just love little Paris. She's not only adorable but you could see in her eyes how much she loved her daddy and adores her aunts and uncles. When she was up on stage, she was belting out all the words to both "We are the World" and "Heal the World." She must have listened to her Dad a lot.

There is absolutely no way on God's green earth that anyone could have scripted the finale with the entire family up on stage and Paris opening her heart to the world.

"Ever since I was born, Daddy has been the best father you could imagine and I just want to say I love him so much."

--Paris Jackson

Roddick vs Federer

(My first tennis raquet which I still have-- all beat up, splintered, yet an American treasure)

Riveting!

Magnetic.

Words can not describe history being made Sunday as two warriors battled.

Knowing I could not watch Breakfast at Wimbledon live, I actually Tivo'd the program. Normally when we set our DVR or tape a show, it sets there never to be watched again.

Not this time.

At the end of our long day, when the tv programming began to go down hill, our remote was our best friend.

Like magic, we were transformed back to the beginning of the Men's Wimbledon Championship Match between Roger Federer and Andy Roddick.

I could not stop watching or tear myself away. For 4 hours and 18 minutes (plus!) I was glued to the television.

Best seat in the house just like Sampras, Laver and Borg occupied.

I've always loved tennis. When I was a little girl, Mom sent me to tennis camp down near the old Aquarium. My cousin Johnny and I went each week. I was awful. He was pretty good. I don't even think I finished out the summer. Like everything I ever began as a young child, it quickly faded away and I was on to the next 'attempted endeavor.'

I wished I would have stuck with my tennis lessons or piano lessons because now, I really do regret tossing them aside.

However, doesn't mean I still can't enjoy watching a terrific match. Wimbledon, the French Open, the US Open....love 'em all!

The history. The pomp and circumstance. Regal. Rules to follow. Etiquette.

When I was a little girl, I dreamed of being one of the ball girls at a big match on Centre Court between my favorite tennis players.

Well, that never materialized, but it's nice to dream!

It's a shame someone had to lose because honestly Andy Roddick played the best match ever. He made 2 mis-shots and that cost him.

When all was said and done:

Roddick 7 6 6 6 14

Federer 5 7 7 3 16

Tremendous! Phenomenal! You did not want it to end and you wanted both to win!

I tip my cap to Roger Federer who made history by winning his 15th Grand Slam Title bypassing Pete Sampras.

At the same time I applaud Andy Roddick for giving his all, staying in the game up until the very last shot and 4 hours into the Match, still serving at 133 mph. WOW!

If Roddick had been playing anyone else, he would have blown them away, hands down.

It's times like these that make me realize WHY I love sports, WHY I look up to athletes (most of them), and that anything is possible if you believe, if you try, if you give your all, and never give up the desire to be the best you can be!

Family fun on the 4th

I'm glad we could all get together for a while on the 4th!

It was a hoot.

We laughed. Watched tv. Ate. Took pictures. Relaxed. Roasted marshmallows.

But more importantly, spent quality time together, which really does not happen much anymore in today's hectic times.

Every time we get together, I thank God that we all 'are' still around to share special moments and make new memories.

Mom and I had the best of both worlds.

We were able to visit with the family and then hit our 'home away from home,' Progressive Field.

We finished the night with our 2nd family, the Cleveland Indians.

Not only did the boys win, fireworks quite spectacular, but Mom and I spent a great night together.

However, there was one noticeable, bothersome item.

It's Independence Day, and unfortunately, there were those in the crowd of all ages who did not respect the meaning behind today.

They kept their hats on during the Star Spangled Banner...and men kept their ball caps on INSIDE when sitting down to dinner at the Terrace Club.

What is wrong with people?

Where has their sense of respect gone?

I can understand little kids. Not really. I can't understand little kids. Their parents should have properly 'home trained' them as to the proper etiquette.

There is no excuse for anyone to keep their hat on during any patriotic song....for folks (other than handicapped) not to stand....for anyone to speak incessantly during the National Anthem.....or for men to keep their hats on inside and while eating.

Remember, WHY we are able to celebrate the 4th of July people. There is more to it than having a day off, spending the day at the beach and then watching fireworks.

Happy Independence Day 2009!

Happy Independence Day!

A safe and happy holiday to all.

I hope that folks realize what transpired so many years ago to allow us to have the day off, enjoy time with family and friends, view fireworks, head to the ballpark, feast on picnic foods and realize what it means to be free.

Raise a glass to the United States of America and enjoy!

Holiday has already begun

Though it is only Friday, July 3, 2009, the holiday weekend has begun.

No mail delivery.

Less cars on the road.

Just the 'feel' of the day begins ushering in a full-fledged holiday weekend!

The Orchestra Concert-Fireworks took place last night on Public Square....Progressive Field will have their first of two holiday fireworks displays beginning tonight.

True, I have to work, but even the mood and feel at work has been tremendous. Fewer people, more parking spaces, but still getting the work done and kicking a little booty!

Have a fabulous Independence Day everyone.

The reason we are able to enjoy this long weekend, fun festivities, ballgames, picnics, fireworks, and parties today is because our forefathers fought for our freedoms so many years ago.

Remember those who made this day, this weekend possible.

Jumping thru hoops to shop at Heinen's

Oh, how I long for the olden and simpler days when I could go into a store and shop.

I could enter an establishment and spend my money without having to present a card of some kind, a card that is supposed to get me a better deal or prove that I am a 'member.'

Let's face it, I've had a CVS extra-care card forever but the coupons they usually spit out for me as a bonus are for products I never use. I know, I know, they are trying to peddle these products that need a little more promotion. Well, I'd rather they thank me for shopping there with coupons for products I buy on a regular basis.

And then, today, what a debacle.

Mom has had a Heinen's card for many years. I recently went through the rigmarole of filling out all the paperwork at the customer service counter to apply for a Heinen's card.

Only to find out --I can't write a check with this card?

What is up with that?

Many many months ago, I made a special trip to the Customer Service Booth and asked them for the proper paperwork for a Heinen's check cashing card.

I filled it all out and a few months later, received my official card which I have been using ever since at our normal Heinen's store.

However, today, we ventured to another Heinen's, where we shop on occasion. Mom had forgotten her card so I whipped out mine only for the clerk to tell me that I could not write a check with that card. Then what is it for???? Why do I have it????

She would not even look up Mom's card information since Mom left her card at home and forced me to charge the entire bill.


It's a vicious cycle --dishonest humans scam fellow human beings & businesses causing extra pre-cautions to be taken which include tedious paperwork, red tape, ownership of meaningless cards which may or may not help the consumer, and a lot of wasted time for everyone involved.

Geeze!!!!

Already July

Everyone is saying 'it is already July.'

What does that mean?

The Summer is not over. There is July, August, September and there have been years when it was warm into October. My cousin got married at the end of October and we were baking in our bridesmaid dresses!

So, folks. This is not a time to start lamenting and feeling blue.

Take each day, grasp it with all you've got, enjoy what God has tossed our way, and try to squeeze the living bejeebers out of every moment!