Perspective Of Yet Another Night Owl


The results are in….Let’s do our part.

It’s 2 AM here and I am not surprised, but I am still nervous about the election results.  My historically Republican state (Virginia) has voted Democratic for the first time in a long while.  It’s only the northern few counties that made that happen (population per capita).  

Regardless of how I voted, however, I am American.  I was born and raised in the U.S.A. and I stand by and behind my country first and foremost.  Even when I don’t agree with the majority.  Why, because that is the freedom of democracy.  The election and the privilege to vote is our right as citizens of this great country.  The democratic process that is in place is what we, as Americans, have come to expect and accept.  Even if we don’t always agree. And if you don’t expect and accept the democratic process by now, you had better learn to do so. And quickly.  It is what our free society has always been. Majority rules.

Even though I am not thrilled with the outcome, I am going to take John McCain’s concession speech to heart and support President Obama as best as I morally can.  I will still fight against some issues. I will support our country as it faces the challenges about to be put to us. I will support President Obama as best I can to make America what it should be. I will take seriously President Obama’s request for the entire country to work together and I will do my part to make America continue to be the best country in the world.

In the meantime, a little prayer wouldn’t hurt.

God Bless Everyone.



Back in Virginia with the family and the cold!
October 22, 2008, 4:36 pm
Filed under: Family, Football, Kids, Life, Thoughts | Tags: , , ,

I am back in Virginia and wow, how cold the weather has gotten since I left.  I am so not ready for the winter cold, as I love Spring and early summer weather.  Guess I better get started and break out the sweat pants and warm coats.  It looks like this winter is going to be a very cold one.  I miss the warm of Dallas, that’s for sure.

The kids had football games on October 18, and both teams won.  Although I did not see them, I got the play by play in photos and some video.  It really was an awesome game.  Zach’s team won 29 to 0!! Yup, that’s right, they slaughtered the other team.  So much so that the league invoked the “mercy” rule and gave the other team an extra 10 yards towards the goal line whenever they were on offense.  Zach has again proven he is good in a different position and is being utilized all over the field.  Bethany’s team won as well, and for her, all she has left to do this season is perform at the games.  Her team has suspended the practices because of the cold weather.  (I guess our little girls are not geared to be outside in this frigid air.)  The boys, however, seem immune to the cold and are practicing still 3 nights a week.

I haven’t been back to work since I returned from Texas. The schedule goes up today, so maybe I will have some hours.  I could use some cash, that’s for sure.  I spent a bit more than I should have in Texas, but I had a blast.  I bought my first pair of Lucky Brand Jeans, and let me tell you, I love them!!!  I also bought gifts for the family and my nephews, as well as a few for some friend’s kids.

Homecoming is Saturday and we are getting all ready.  Nails, Hair, Shoes, Dress, etc. etc.   I wish it were over already. (My daughter’s boyfriend is probably thinking the same thing.)  Zach has his last regular season game this Saturday against the Giants rivals, the Vikings.  I can’t wait to see the game, then we will see if we are still in first place as playoffs are about to begin.  Bethany’s last game is this Saturday too.  I think my mom is taking her as she will be spending the weekend at her house and the game is in Sterling.

Well, I hear the washing machine calling to me (“come switch it over and start a new load”) so I had better run.



Texas….It’s been fun so far and Uncle’s surgery went great!
October 15, 2008, 11:05 am
Filed under: Family, Kids, Life, Mary Kay, Travel, Vacation | Tags: , , ,

Hey all!  I thought I would  take a few minutes and let you know how the vacation/family help has been going.  My uncle’s back surgery went off without any hitches.  The doctor says he has the bones of a much younger man, even though he is in his 70’s.  He was able to come home from the hospital the following morning and has been doing really well with his recovery.  Now, if we could just get this workaholic to just relax without trying to work from home.  My uncle and I have been doing the restaurant row thing for dinner nightly, except the night he stayed over in the hospital.  For those of you familiar with Dallas, I am talking about Beltline Road/Restaurant Row.  Let me tell you, there are soooo many restaurants, it’s hard to decide where to eat.  I think we will be doing leftovers for the next day or two, just so we can empty the refrigerator.  The one night he was not home to eat with us, we got a pizza from Whole Foods which was pretty darn good.  My aunt and I have decided that cooking this week is overrated.

My cousin’s kids have been a lot of fun to hang around with.  They are so cute!!  Their little boy is so full of energy and just a complete image of his father when he was young.  Such a great little man to play with and so loving.  I just love getting him on the bus in the morning and retrieving him in the afternoon.  His little eyes light up whenever he sees me.  Makes me miss my kids a bunch.  Their little girl, the princess, is as sweet as can be and so very smart.  She and I have been doing homework together and having a lot of fun watching girly movies together and cuddling on the couch. 

Last night, when we went to pick up dinner at PF Changs (YUM) my aunt actually sat at the bar with me while I had a cocktail. Since the restaurants here are non-smoking, she was able to hang out inside with me.  This was a much needed cocktail, as we are actually in a dry county here in North Dallas.  Not to mention, my aunt and uncle are not drinkers (at all) so there is no alcohol in the house.  I was about to go nuts, so that vodka (Stholis) rocks, was a good and strong one.  I could buy some a bring it home, but as you all know, I am not really an “at home” drinker.  I much prefer the bar and socialization that comes with it.

I may swing by the Mary Kay building and check it out today.  Even though I am not doing Mary Kay anymore, I think it would be cool to see it while I am here.  I also am hoping to get a chance to stop by the State Fair.  I am not huge into rides that leave the ground, but I hear there are some pretty cool things to see there.  Not to mention, any fair that requires school holidays (and yes, you heard that right, they get out of school for this around here) has got to be seen!  Anyway, we are off to do a bit of shopping.  I have some souvenirs to get for friends and want to get some gifts for my kids.



Football, Homecoming, Parades & the Kids

Zachary had a couple of great games this past week.  Wednesday night the ULYFL Giants played against the ULYFL Bandits.  The Giants won 20-6.  It was a fantastic game and gave the boys a sense of “we CAN do this” which was needed after their first game loss to the LLFBL Rams.  Saturday night the Giants played against the ULYFL Titans and won again, 8-0.  The score would have been 20-0, but we had two touchdowns called back for some pretty stupid penalties.  One was recalled for blocking from behind, a silly mistake.  The second was recalled for holding, an even sillier mistake but it happens.  The coaches were not too pleased about the penalties, but I think the boys were actually feeling worse about them.  

Zachary on the move!

(Zachary is on the left of the photo with the long blue sleeves.)

Zachary was moved to a different position in this game and had quite a few important tackles.  He was hurt during one of them in the second quarter.  (more…)



Having too much fun, but oh my feet….
September 16, 2008, 11:52 pm
Filed under: Jobs, Kids, Life, Thoughts | Tags: ,

Recently I mentioned that I would be helping out for a month at my favorite restaurant and hang out.  Tonight was my second night and I love it!  I am learning how to make all kinds of shots/cocktails beyond the basics, which is fun.  My feet hurt, but I guess that’s normal.  I haven’t really been on them (my poor heels) in a while.  Tending bar, you are on your feet the whole time.  I have cute black tennis shoes but, I think my feetmay require cute black naturalizers. I love how they do things in teams, it makes it easier. We get our tips the next day and the first night I did pretty darn good and that was an “in-training” cut.  I have got a long day tomorrow starting here at home getting things done.  Then Zach’s football game and my first closing shift at the Grille. Wish Zach luck at his game, me luck at work and for my feet. :)



Political Issue: Sex Education, Birth Control & Abortion
September 10, 2008, 8:01 pm
Filed under: Democrat, Family, Hot Topics, Kids, Life, Politics, Republican | Tags: ,

This issue is where I happen to somewhat disagree with the Republican party.  I have said before and will again, I am socially liberal and fiscally conservative.  Where does that leave me on the party lines? Primarily still on the Republican side.  This is a touchy subject, so click to read on if you want. (more…)



Temporary Bar Tender
September 10, 2008, 2:44 pm
Filed under: Exciting, Jobs, Life, Random | Tags:

Exciting news for me!  I have been asked by my local favorite watering hole’s owner to tend bar for a month.  One of the full-time bar gals is going on a well deserved month long trip.  Rather than hire someone that they really don’t need on staff, they have asked me, one of their favorite patrons.  I cannot tell you how excited I am about this.  I already have a posse who plans to come and hang out while I am there.  Look at that, I have already increased business.  :)  

 

So, I went up today for lunch to learn the POS system they use.  That took about 10 minutes and I have it down, no problem.  I already know the menu, although they recently hired a new chef who plans to change things up a bit.  I can already mix most drinks being that I have experience drinking said mixed drinks, so I foresee no real problems with this temporary position.  Who knows?  Maybe I will love it and stick around a bit after all is said and done.   Wish me luck and if you are in the area, come and have a drink!



Controversial Questions
September 6, 2008, 4:30 pm
Filed under: Controversial Questions, Life, Opinions, Politics, Thoughts | Tags: ,

I have some controversial questions that I would love to see some answers to.  Some of these are more controversial than others, and I do not intend to offend anyone.  My intent is to get an honest idea of other’s opinions.  If you think you want to answer them, please read on. (more…)



I’m back! Summer 2008 is coming to a close….
August 28, 2008, 3:15 am
Filed under: Beach, Cheerleading, Family, Football, Kids, Life, Marching Band | Tags: ,

Well, it seems like forever since I have logged onto wordpress. Summer 2008 is coming to a close and we have had a busy one. We went to Canada this summer and to the beach a few times. The husband and I have a quick jaunt to Florida planned for the weekend of Oct. 31. One of my dearest friends from high school is getting married to a great guy. We plan on celebrating with them and leaving the kids home with my sister. After Christmas, we have another trip planned to Jamaica for the kids and us. We can’t wait. New Years in Jamaica. How cool is that? (more…)



Here’s what I have been up to lately…

It’s been a couple of weeks since I quit my job, and believe it or not, I have managed to fill up the 60 hours a week that I had on my hands.  I have managed to get my house in some assemblence of order (although there is still stuff to be done).  I have started some gardening (which was desperately needed), treated myself (hair cut, color, high-lights, mani- and pedicure), had lunch with friends and family, and spent time with the husband.  The husband and I also planted 2 dwarf pear trees in our yard.  Can’t wait for them to bear fruit.

We took a mini camping trip this past weekend which was a lot of fun.  The kids participated in a ton of activities at the camp ground.  My youngest daughter won a scavenger hunt and made a tye-dye t-shirt.  (more…)



Susan G. Komen National Race For The Cure® on June 7, 2008!!

As you all know, my Mom was diagnosed with Breast Cancer last year.  Since then, I have been trying to find ways to support the fight against breast cancer.   Recently, I accepted the challenge (thanks Mom) to support the fight against breast cancer by participating in Susan G. Komen National Race for the Cure® on June 7, 2008 in Washington, DC.  Mom and I will be walking (definately not running) with the BCL Breast Center of Loudoun team.

Please join me by pledging to support my participation in the Susan G. Komen National Race for the Cure®. The generosity of our donors is vital as we continue our efforts to help breast cancer patients today, as well as to invest in the health of future generations. It is easy to support this great cause. You can make a pledge online by simply clicking on the link to my personal pledge page at the bottom of this post. If you would prefer there is also a downloadable form to send in pledges through the mail. Any contribution amount will make a difference in the lives of many!! I (and my Mom) truly appreciate your generosity and will keep you posted on my progress.

Thank you so much for your time and support in the fight against breast cancer. Best protection is early detection!

 

My Fundraising Goal:
$250.00
Money Raised to Date:
$145.00

Click Here to Donate

~ Krysti Humphryes ~



I QUIT!!! (And other news…)
April 6, 2008, 11:39 pm
Filed under: Balance, Family, Life, Love, Papa Johns | Tags: ,

It has been a long time since I have been on wordpress.  I plan to be on a bit more as I have about 60 hours a week on my hands.  “Why?” you ask, because today, I quit my JOB!!  No, I did not quit Mary Kay, although that fell to the wayside some time last summer when I went back to Papa Johns.  (I have managed to remain an active MK consultant with the few returning customers.)  Today, I quit my General Manager position at Papa Johns (PJs).  There have been a few things going on lately that made the decision to leave an easy one.  Here is whats been up lately: (more…)



Here’s the latest…..
January 24, 2008, 10:15 pm
Filed under: Breast Cancer, Breast Cancer 3 Day Walk, Family, Jobs, Kids, Life, Thoughts

I feel as if I have neglected you!!!  I tend to keep in touch with a lot of my family and friends through this blog.  I have been extremely busy these last couple of weeks, but then at the same time, feel like I probably could have made the extra time for keeping in touch.

Next week is my oldest daughter’s 15th birthday.  It’s hard to believe that she is almost a sophmore in high school.  I am not sure what her plans are this year for her birthday.  She has gone back and forth on gifts and party ideas, etc.  She just doesn’t know what she wants.  Oh well, when she decides she will let me know and then we will take care of it then.

My husband’s birthday is the following week.  We are also planning a super bowl party for some friends of ours.  A bring a dish kind of thing, very casual.  Between all the birthdays and the super bowl, the next couple of weeks look like they will be busy too.

I had done some research recently on the 3 Day Walk for the cure for Breast Cancer.  I have 4 ladies who all would love to walk the 60 miles with  me. (more…)



Christmas Vacation
January 2, 2008, 4:43 am
Filed under: Christmas, Family, Life, Photos, Vacation

The holidays were  a busy time for us.  We celebrated Christmas with the kids a day early so that we could catch our flight to British Columbia very early in the morning Christmas day.  All went well with our flight and we arrived safely, with all our luggage in Vancouver, British Columbia on the afternoon of Christmas.  Our family met us at the airport and the holidays began.

 

We all stayed at my sister-in-laws house in West Vancouver.  Luckily, it’s a big house, so her 5 (plus the occasional girlfriend or friend of the kids staying over), my five, and my mother and father-in-law, all fit well together without stepping on too many toes.  (Good thing there are 5 bathrooms!)    (more…)



It’s here, but am I ready? Merry Christmas 2007!
December 22, 2007, 12:34 am
Filed under: Christmas, Family, Life, Travel, Vacation, Whistler

Only a few days left until Christmas and I am not even near ready.  This year, I just can’t seem to get it together, although I am not sure what “it” is. 

This year, we put off getting a tree until last weekend, mostly due to our schedules with work and the kids activities.  We usually head to Pennsylvania and choose and cut the biggest Blue Spruce we can find, always picking the perfect tree, as a family.  This year, we went to a local tree farm and paid 3 times (what we usually spend) for a much smaller tree.  The two oldest kids sat in the car, having apparently outgrown the tree picking tradition.  Late last night we finally got the tree inside and my youngest and I decorated it.  (more…)