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Thursday, November 20, 2008

“For One More Day”

by MEK

Today is the anniversary of my father’s death. It’s not like it happened yesterday, but many, many years ago (17 to be exact) – but this day still sticks in my mind like it was. In many ways it was a blessing. He suffered from Multiple Sclerosis and was totally bedridden, but his mind was still as sharp as ever.

I wish that I had taken advantage of this time to ask him about his childhood, his parents, their parents, how it was growing up on that farm, his early years in the military, but I did not. Instead, I showed up occasionally (not as often as I should have) with a McDonald’s ice cream sundae that I had to feed to him. He would ask me three questions and they were the same every time. How is work? How is your car running? And how is your love life? Then the conversation ended. The sundae had been consumed. And we would sit there and look at each other.

Mitch Albom wrote a bestseller “For One More Day” – when I read this book – I immediately went out and got copies for my mother and my siblings. It became part of everyone’s Christmas gift that year. I have thought many times about what I would do with my dad if we just had ONE MORE DAY!!

He would be whole and healthy. We would play a round of golf (oh, he LOVED his golf), then we’d go to the 19th hole and have an adult beverage or two or three. We would hug each other. He would tell me he loved me (he never did – we were just supposed to know) and I would tell him that I loved him too. And that would be the end of the perfect day.

If you could have One More Day with anyone – who would it be and what would you do?

154 comments:

scirish said...

Again?

scirish said...

Yessssss! I hope I'm not being tedious???

I don't know how Tink knows that I'm competitive?? Lucky guess maybe??? :)

scirish said...

OMG....MEK, I have thought of this over and over in regard to my Grandmother. She and I were not really close. (I was always super close to my Grandfather, which may have been part of the problem) She had a funny, silly sense of humour, but otherwise, was kind of reserved. Several years after my Grandfather died, she became bedridden, with my Mom as her caretaker. I would go visit once in a while, but always ran out of things to say unless my Mom was there also.

One afternoon, my Mom had a rather extensive doctors appt and asked me to stay with Grandma. I gave her lunch, settled her in for a nap, and went into the kitchen to do some paperwork I had brought with me. I puttered around the house very quietly so as not to disturb her. Finally Mom came home and I left.

I found out later that Grandma had been looking forward to my staying with her for the afternoon and had wanted me to hang around with her and just talk. She asked my Mom if I didn't like her...That about broke my heart.

She became unresponsive shortly after that, so we never did get to just hang out. I wish with all my heart I could do that day over.

I hope there are no typos...my eyes seem to be leaking.

Zona said...

Good Morning Everyone!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SHIRLEY!!!

I hope you have a day that's filled with sunshine and smiles, and that every wish you make comes true!!

scirish said...

*From Area 51*

Lani....Talk about "kismet" what a cool story!

Outatuune...What a romantic way to met you hubby!

DonnaJean...I would be happy to help with your Resume...I used to have a side business doing that.

Bon....For what it's worth...I think I would always wonder if I didn't go...

scirish said...

Happy Birthday Shirley!!! I have frosted the cake pan for you!!!

Zona said...

MEK: I really had to think hard about my response to your question. On the face of it, the obvious answer would be my mother. I miss her so much. When I think about it though, could I spend a whole day laughing with her..finally paying attention while she shows me how to draw using perspective...learning her recipes..only to have to let her go again??

It seems that, just very recently, I've had so many questions to ask her. I'd like her advice on so many things. I need her arm around me so badly, that I think I would have to endure that seperation again. I would love to have just one more day with my mom.

Truly a heartfelt blog today MEK, thank you.

Zona said...

SCIRISH: Congrats on FIRST! You're becoming a pro!! :)

From Area 51:

JODI: Angel was thrilled...and I think impatient now. ;)

NN/LL: Thank you for the get well wishes..I'm getting there!

MARY/MI: Congrats to Raquel!!

MO: Quite a conundrum..but so true.

night.owls.sb said...

Scirish:
First, and yes Again :O)

Congrats!

night.owls.sb said...

Good Morning:
Scirish, Zona, and me :O)

night.owls.sb said...

Shirley:
Happy, Happy Birthday....

May you day be filled with lots of Joy! And of course a martini could never hurt!

:O)

night.owls.sb said...

Mek:
Your Blog Today, Thank You ♥♥♥

night.owls.sb said...

If I had one more day with just one person?

I actually was able to cheat a little bit, because I read this last nite. But heck Mo cheats when I am not around and she handles the blog and gets First, right... :O)

My dear Aunt Jo, geez, I got the tears..

I would take her, my mother, her daughter, and myself to a play in NYC and for dinner. We did this so many times, and since she has passed we don't do it anymore.

At dinner we would have her fav, white wine.

I would spend the whole day with her, so she can call me "my love" and at days end I would tell her I loved her, and that I will make sure her daughter is never alone.

No matter I will always be by Ar's side. And this would make her smile.

This is my, for one more day...

night.owls.sb said...

I gotta run!

Everyone have a great Day!

Shirley:
I think I need one of those b'day Martini's.

:O)

night.owls.sb said...

Sorry to confuse.. In my comment Ar is Aunt Jo's daughter....

Zona said...

Good Morning CPGEM! Your 'one more day' sounds beautiful.

Lois Lane said...

Awww, you guys are making my eyes leak. :(

mmm... salty. :P

Okay, honestly, as much as I miss those whom I've lost... my dad, 2 sisters, mother in-law, cousin, three uncles, two aunts, 8 grandparents (in-laws included) too many friends, I wouldn't want that one day.

To have to go through grieving all over again for any one of them would break my heart.

Lois Lane said...

Oh, congratulations to Pete and Repeat, I mean Scirish! #1 AGAIN! :D

MEK in AZ said...

Happy Thursday!!!

Scirish - I don't think any of us will catch you!! Congrats on FIRST!

Shirley - HAPPY BIRTHDAY - may all your wishes and dreams come true.

Scirish - Thank you for sharing your story - I know exactly how you feel.......

Zona - (((HUGS))) -

cpgem - love you!! thank you for posting my blog today. maybe you can get everyone together for a special dinner to remember Aunt Jo.

LL - very interesting...

Goldie - I am thinking of you today - my special friend!!
:-)

i still have lots to catch up on since I was gone.......

I hope everyone has an excellent day!!
:-)

Shirley(NCC-1701) said...

Congrats on 1st Scirish! One more and you will be tied with Lynn D!

♪♪Happy Birthday to me!!♪♪

Good morning Zona, Carol, Lois and Mek!

Mek I will comment on your blog later. I am going to Mum's for lunch (salt fish and potatoes...we love it) and then I will come home and comment before going to supper tonight. My friend's daughter's birthday is also today so we usually celebrate together. She is turning 13 today. So we are going to Pizza Delight were your meal is free if it's your birthday.

Thanks everyone for all the birthday comments here and on myspace.

Tina will you be my mother? I have always wanted a Star Trek cake for my birthday and mum always said that was stupid. When I saw the one you sent me I got a big smile on my face. Thanks! ((HUGS))

OK I've got to go. See you all later. FYI I like carrot cake too. I'm just sayin'. Oh, and champaigne for everyone!!

Shirley(NCC-1701) said...

Forgot to say that I called the doctor this morning and it was just a med increase. I was sure they had told me before that I was taking the highest dosage. Anyway, worry and drama for nothing. Thanks everyone.

Lynn D said...

Morning Glories!

Geez competive much Scrishy! LMAO congrats on first!

HAPPY BIRTHDY SHIRLEY! I would send you a birthday message through myspace but I seem to be having problems on that front again!

MEK beautiful blog! I bet Dad is waiting to welcome you when your time comes and I bet he has the links reserved.

Hope everyone has a wonderful day.

Tinkatia said...

Good Morning Scirish "Oh Competitive One", you did it again.

Shirley - Happy Birthday. Wishing you a Star Wars cake. Have a good one Sweetie.

Good Morning Zona-My-Baby. Hope you are feeling better today. Call me.

VIG - I also hope you are better too. I can't believe my daughter and my aunt both got sick at the same time. They don't even live near each other. Call me.

Good Morning Carol, Lois and Mek.

Mek - Another great blog. I will try and find that book on tape. Diamond Rio has a song being played these days called "One More Day". I cry every time I hear it. I just watched it on UTube.

These are parts of the lyrics.

"One more day
One more time
One more sunset, maybe I'd be satisfied
But then again
I know what it would do
Leave me wishing still, for one more day with you

First thing I'd do, is pray for time to crawl
Then I'd unplug the telephone
And keep the tv off
I'd hold you every second
Say a million I love yous
That's what I'd do, with one more day with you"


I don't know which one of my loved ones I would like one more day with. I think probably my father. He told so many stories about the "Halifax Explosion", about his early life and what it was like during the Depression and World War II. I wish I had taped all of his stories because I can't remember the details. Like Zona, I couldn't bear to have my mom or sister for one more day if I knew they had to leave at the end of it. The thought of it makes me cry. In two more days it will be two months since my mom died. I have to stop marking every anniversary with such sadness.

whabbear said...

Hooray, Shirley! Congrats on the good medical news, and Happy Birthday Day!

MEK: Funny... I'm with Lois, but for a different reason. Rather than having one more day with somebody I've known who's already died, I would like to have one more day with somebody still alive.

My Mom.

But... here's the twist... I'd like the day with her to be one where she was back to the physical condition she was in her 40's. There's been so much water under the bridge since then, and she can no longer play tennis. So in my extra day, we would play together, and talk about what it is like to be middle-aged!

Tinkatia said...

Good Morning Lynn.

I have a busy day today. I have a meeting with the lawyer concerning the selling of "The Family Home". I am dreading it.

I have a computer meeting tonight. We have to show our favourite photo of the year. It is a contest. I am taking the close-up picture of Naomi in her pink hat and big smile. I am also taking Tia and Tango's picture in their Halloween costumes. I have used them both as my avatars on myspace. I don't think we will win anything because there are some fantastic photographers but it gives me a chance to 'show off' my babies.

I will see you all tomorrow. Have a great day Owls.

Tinkatia said...

Good Morning Whabbear - I like your idea of "One More Day". There is no sadness involved.

Sandie said...

Happy, Happy Birthday, Shirley!! I hope you have a wonderful lunch with Mum and a fun, yummy dinner with your friends! So glad your meds just needed to be adjusted. Enjoy your day!!!

Hi Scirish! First again, yea! I understand how you feel.

Great blog, MEK. I love your description of the one last day you'd spend with your Dad.

I would spend one more day with my Uncle John. He was my Mom's youngest brother and he died of cancer 10 years ago. Uncle John always treated his nieces and nephews like they were his own kids. He took us places, bought things for us and loved to bake cakes for us. He was really special.

And, he was a gay man who spent his whole life in the closet. He never felt safe enough to tell one person in the family. All of my cousins would whisper that we thought he was but when I would ask my Mom, she would say NO! (Now she admits that he "probably" was and wishes she had told him it was okay.) He obviously didn't feel he could let us know so I never had the nerve to approach him about it. How I wish that I had.

So, I would spend one last day with him baking and talking about how much I love him and accept him. I would hope he would get one more day to live his true life, and not feel he had something to hide.

Tinka, I'll be thinking about you today.

Good morning, Zona, Carol, Lois, Whabbear and LynnD!

goldie said...

MEK- BIG HUGS TO YOU!!
As MEK knows, today is also the anniversary of my Fathers death as well. 12 years ago.
If I had one more day? I would want it to be now in the present so he could meet his Great-Children.

HAPPY BIRHTDAY SHIRLEY!!!!!!!!!!!!

Congrats on 1st scirish-again! LOL

Have a good day Hooters.

One more day until the grandbabies get here!!!!!!!!

Sandie said...

Whabbear, I loved what you said about your Mom. I almost said the same thing about my Aunt Mary.

I mentioned her before on the blog a few months ago. She is not doing well and I pray I can have one more day with her. (We live far apart.)

Sandie said...

Hi Goldie! Have a great time with your grandbabies!

I'm off to start the big clean. My cousin and her hubby arrive tonight (they're staying with my Mom & Dad) and my two nephews and their families (three little girls, ages 4 years, 2 mos. and 4 mos.) arrive this weekend and will be staying with me. I can't wait to get my hands on those babies!!

Have a good day!

Sandie said...

I'm procrastinating and I can't get up .....

Donna Jean said...

Good Morning/Afternoon Everyone!

MEK~ May I just say that your Blog today is so wonderful! I too wish I had "One More Day" with a few people I have lost in my lifetime.

First off would be my Husband, Larry, of course. And then my Mother, whom I didn't get to know very well at all, because she was in a TB Sanitarium from the time I was 5 months old until her death when I was six. And then there is my Uncle Jim, who passed away due to complications of AIDS in 1990. He was my rock, always there for me, when my own Dad wasn't. (that is a long story, one I have mentioned in detail before).

I wish I too had asked more questions of both my Uncle and my Father before they passed away. You know, family history, funny stories about when they were young. I think we all believe that there will always be "One More Day" to ask those all so important questions, or say those words, like "I Love You', or forgive those who have hurt us.

Maybe for those of you lucky enough to still have Mothers, Fathers, Grandmothers, Granfathers, Aunts & Uncles still living, will take this opportunity to talk with them now, maybe even write down a bit of family history, or video them, record them, for your own children to see and hear someday.

I surely wish I would have done that.

SCIRISH~ Thank you so much with offering to help me with my resume'! I don't think we have each other's email addys, and since this is a "public" forum per se, I don't feel comfortable putting it on the Blog. But, CAROL has mine, and I will email her and give her permission to give it to you. (Thanks, Carol, in advance, for doing this)!

TINKA~ You must have been reading my mind! I too love that song by Diamond Rio. In fact a couple weeks back, when it would have been my Wedding Anniversary, I too copied those lyrics and posted them. That song is just so gut-wrenching! I cry and feel happy at the same time, everytime I hear it. I haven't YouTubed it, but now I think I will!

Another great song is by Tim McGraw, "Live Like You Were Dying". He wrote it as a tribute to his father Tug McGraw, who passed away a few years back.

Well, I must close for now, I am off to have an MRI. Hopefully we can get to the bottom of these awful leg spasms and pain I have been having. Oh to have a comfortable night's sleep again!

The Dr. thinks I may have more degenerative discs, and even used the dreaded "S" word again! I sure don't want that. So, we may just do the Epidural Cortisone shots. But, until we get the MRI results, we can't form a plan of action.

SHIRLEY~ Still thinking of you and sending positive thoughts your way, for the resuts on your Thyroid issue. ((HUGS)) And may this Very Special Day, be filled with lots of Happiness and & Joy for you!! Turning 39???

Till later my lovelies,
Peace and Love to All.
NO on H8,
Donna Jean

Tina~in_ut said...

Scirish~ congrats on first~ ths story of your grandmother really got to me~

MEK~ beautiful blog~

I can't think of anyone i want to spend one more day with....the song by Diamond Rio reminds me of Dale Earnhardt....i'd love to see him race one more time~

I'm with Bear~ I'd love one more day of my dad without a broken neck and chemo....to see him look up at his birds (he has a ton of bird feeders!), or climb a ladder without all of us worrying, to see him with tons of energy~

Shirley~ HB~ I'm too old to be your mother! :)~

night.owls.sb said...

I got a pedometer in the mail today, Bebbi had one and offered to mail it to me. I am so excited I have never had one before. I put it on my shoe as she instructed me to do so and I have 37 steps in so far...

Is that good?

Bebbi, Thank You! :O)

night.owls.sb said...

Shirley:
Glad it was only the meds. And yes we are know for creating unknown drama, god knows I create it daily!

You day sounds wonderful!

Enjoy!

I love champagne! :O)

night.owls.sb said...

Whabby:
Never thought of it that way. Hmmm.. Yes to have my dad back from 20yrs ago, when his mind was sharp! That would be terrific..

night.owls.sb said...

Tina:
I got my nails done today, and I picked a dark color. When she asked me why I was getting a dark color, (I usually get light colors). I told her "I need to be crackwhoreish" needless to say she did not get it..

So I guess that is really just a blog thing...

My SSO says I am easy to :O)

Lois Lane said...

Easy there Carol, you don't want to go taking all of your steps in the first day. ;)

Bear, that's a great one more day idea!

Shirley, that's the best kind of doc news!

Jodi said...

CAROL - When my Aunt Karen was in the nursing home, I used to paint her nails bright red!!! She was only in her late thirties at the time....and I would tease her that it was "cum f*ck me red"!!! :P

MEK - Beautiful blog today!! My perfect day would be for my Mother and brother to be here so they could spend time with my kids. I would especially like for them both to attend both Samantha's WYSO concert and Tim's band concert (Tim plays percussion just like his Uncle Dale). Me and my brother's were all involved in music and I would luv to watch their faces as they listen to my kids play.

Jodi said...

NO NEWZ - I had a GREAT time with my cousins last week!!! It felt good to share some cocktails and many laughs. We have made a commitment to do this once a month!!! THANK YOU again for your blog.....it really made me think, and better yet, to do something about it!!! Oh, I changed my avatar....it's a pic of us last week. My cousin Amy is on the left and my cousin Jenny is on the right.

whabbear said...

Just read all the comments... wow! MEK, fantastic blog today! It's really bringing up some interesting perspectives.

Sandie: Your poor Uncle Jim! What a poignant wish.

Tink: Certainly, not as much sadness as for a loved one who's died, like you would feel about your Mom if she came back.

But sadness, nevertheless. I hate to see what aging has done to my parents... how it has robbed them of so many things that they loved to do in their life, of choices, and options, etc. etc.

To have my Mom and Dad back for even one day in the prime of their lives would be wonderful, but tinged with sadness, too.

sacBarb said...

Happy Thursday Owls.

MEK, another thought provoking blog from you and interestingly enough, I thought a lot about this very topic yesterday, which would have bee my 48th wedding anniversary. Of course I would love to have one more day with my Hubby and would love for him to be able to see what fine men our boys turned out to be. We both had some doubts during the teen years, but he would be very proud to see how it all turned out.

MEK, I'm sure your Dad is yelling "FORE" right now. Thanks for sharing him with us.

sacBarb said...

Scirish, congrats on #1 again. This leaking eyes thing must be contagious.

Zona, I too wish I had asked my Mom more questions. And my Dad used to tell stories about Italy and I wish I had paid better attention.

Carol, How long did it take to get all those steps in?

Shirley, A very Happy Birthday to you ♪♪♪

Tinka, Everyone grieves in their own way. Don't feel guilty about marking the anniversaries.

Sandie, Maybe you will get that day with Aunt Mary.

Goldie (((HUGS))) to you today

Jodi, Great pic and I'm glad you had such a good time with the cousins.

Howdy to NN/LL, Bear, Tina, DonnaJean, and everyone else who lands later.

sacBarb said...

49

sacBarb said...

50

Jodi said...

I have to agree with you WHABBY.....what I wouldn't give to watch my Mom and Dad dance together one last time. They met at a dance hall....and it was a pleasure to see one couple move in such perfect rhythm together.

Jodi said...

Hey SACBARB - Thank you!!! And congrats on 50!!

Sandie said...

Thank you, sacbarb, I hope I can. Actually, my cousin, Aunt Mary's oldest daughter is visiting for the holiday and I can't wait to see her tonight.

I'm loving reading all of your stories. I'm so fortunate to still have my Mom and Dad and you all are making me realize I should be taking more pictures, videos and just talking to them more. Thank you.

Dreama said...

I guess this is an eerie coincidnece. My dear friend that I have known from grade school just posted a very similar blog "What I wouldn't give for another day with Mom" in her journal today.
It reads:
.....
It still doesn't feel real to me that mom is gone. But, she's been gone for 6 months now. Every time I think about the upcoming holidays, her birthday in November and her Anniversary in December, I wonder how I will make it through them all. What I wouldn't give for another day with mom. It is so hard for me to accept that she is gone and, in a way, it just feels like she went away for awhile and will be coming back. I made a nice arrangement of flowers for her gravesite for fall. I will be making a Christmas arrangement soon. Mom loved Christmas. Dad keeps sending me pictures of her and I do cherish them but, they make me cry. My mom was so beautiful, inside and out. She didn't deserve such a horrible death. She was never mean to anyone. Anyone who met her loved her. I never dreamed that I would lose my mom so soon! One day she is healthy and happy and the next day she is dying and dying quickly. Her appearance changing day by day. I still can't get those pictures of her, in her last days, out of my mind. I cry anytime I think about it. Please God, give me the strength I need to get through this tough time in my life.

Dreama said...

Shirley!!!!!!!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Jodi said...

SHIRLEY - In case you didn't see my post in Area 51.....HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!

MEK in AZ said...

Tinka - I LOVE that song!! Had forgotten about it today - thank you for sharing!!

Whabby - I, too, would love to see my mom young and active and having her sense of humor back..

LL - I meant to add to my interesting comment - that i totally understand also!!

Shirley - hope you had a good lunch and a wonderful dinner tonight!! save some cake for us!!

Lynn D - thanks - hadn't thought of that either!!! FORE!!!!!
:-)

sandie - hope you enjoyed your "day" with Uncle John.

Donna Jean - I agree - everyone needs to take advantage of those loved ones still with us today and get as much information as we can!!

Tina - hope your dad is doing well.

cpgem - LOL at your crackwhore nails!! are you going to share a pic with us..??!!
:-)

Goldie - are you doing okay today?? Just have to check in again!!

IBB - (((HUGS))) - hope you are alright today as well!!

jodi - thanks AND hope you don't mind - I took one of Zona's donuts and some chocolate milk!!! LOL

SacBarb - love you!! and thinking of you today!!

I have enjoyed reading everyone's stories - thank you SO much for sharing!!! i really appreciate it..

MEK in AZ said...

I also wanted to take a moment and thank everyone for their kind comments on my Sunday Song pick..

After listening to his full CD over and over again - I have decided that joshua is our modern day Simon and Garfunkel..

AMAZING!!!

I appreciate you all taking the time to listen...

Lois Lane said...

Don't sweat it, Mek. I'm an out of the box thinker on subject matter such as this. I love when someone gets my wheels cranking, however. Between you and Carol (yesterday's post) that poor hamster on the wheel in my head has fallen off and snuck out an ear hole. :D

I'm putting a plea out (even though I believe you all intend to watch anyhow) that you all tune in to Rosie Live 11/26 @ 8/7CST on NBC.

If the show gets big ratings, NBC will pick it up as a weekly. I've been in contact with Janette (the Ja in JAHERO) who is the co-producer and head writer for the show. She said if it progresses, she will take comedy writing submissions from me for employment consideration.

It is my dream to write sketch comedy for TV. So I am humbly asking everyone to watch it, plug it, chat it up wherever you play IRL (in real life) or online.

I'm so freakin' excited!

Lois Lane said...

Jodi, look at you three hotties! Bet you had to "beat the men off"













WITH STICKS, Jodi, sticks!





Sheesh! She's a real perv. I LIKE it!

MEK in AZ said...

Iteach - I wanted to comment on your Birthday blog...

I did not have to share my birthday - my mom had us all pretty much spread out..
:-)

I'm sure IBB shared her birthday story - my parents NEVER put the Christmas tree up until after her day - AND, my mom STILL does that to THIS day - even though my sister does not live here...

MEK in AZ said...

as you guys can see - I'm trying to catch up on all the blogs that I missed!!!

Just_Lin said...

Shirley HAPPY BIRTHDAY!! I hope your lunch and dinner are fabulous!

scirish Congrats on first again. This race is neck and neck.

MEK Great blog today. It really tugs on the heart strings.

I wish I would have had one more day with my second husband. We had been told that he had 2 or 3 more months to live so when he died, still in the hospital, after only 2 weeks, I was not ready. We never spoke a proper goodbye, at least not while he was still cognizant. He retreated somewhere deep inside himself during the last two days of his life. I did tell him on the second evening that I loved him, that the doctors couldn't help him anymore, that the kids and I would be okay, that I didn't want him to suffer and it was okay for him to let go. He died about 1 1/2 hours later. I am grateful that we always said "I love you" every time one of us walked out the door and every night before bed.

(((HUGS))) to all Owl who are missing someone today.

Bebbilane said...

Congrats on first Scirish!

Hi all! It is cold here today. It snowed tonight. Brrr.

Well, I haven't got very many steps. I only have 4322 because it is snowy and really cold out. I am probably not going to walk tonight. BRRRrrrr!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SHIRLEY!!! I hope that your day was wonderful!!

Take care all and talk to you later.

MEK in AZ said...

Bebbi - I just read your "Wishing Well" blog - thank you for sharing..

I hope all your wishes and dreams come true!!

Bebbilane said...

Oh, congrats on the good news..No News! I sure hope that it is a success. I love Rosie and I love this kind of format. I hope it does as well as Carol Burnett. I miss those kinds of shows.

Mek, great blog! If I had one day to go over it would be the day before my grandfather died. I would have went to see him in the hospital that night instead of waiting until the morning and finding out he died during the night.

MEK in AZ said...

Just Lin - (((HUGS)))

bebbi - you should be here in AZ - it's in the 80's today and you would get ALL your steps in...

MEK in AZ said...

68

MEK in AZ said...

69

MEK in AZ said...

sorry -couldn't let that go!!!
LOL

Caryn said...

MEK! Love your blog today!

Shirley! HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!

Scirish! Congrats on 1st (again)!

Dreama! Sorry I haven't responded but yes, I got your 'tweets'. YH figured out a way to send those location msgs to my twitter via his blackberry (his company paid the international roaming) while we were out at sea. Our location was always showing on one of the TV channels so that's where he got it.

And happy day and hugs to all my owl friends.

ONE MORE DAY
I'd like to spend a day to get to know Zane (Paul's oldest brother) when he was healthy. Zane died in a hospital in Sacramento shortly after we moved to San Francisco and had been estranged from his family for several years before that so I only had a couple of weeks to know him as a frail, sickly person before he passed but I think we might have been great friends.

MEK in AZ said...

Outatune!!! howdy!! hope you had a great trip...
did you get into Regis and Kelly or the View??!!

MEK in AZ said...

Iteach - I just watched your Technology video..

isn't it amazing how far it's come.

Heck - we didn't have any of that growing up - I find it interesting to see a four year old able to work all these gadgets better than I can...... scary!!

Thanks for sharing that with us..

Caryn said...

Great news, no_newz!

That is so awesome! If you write for them, we'll have our very own celebrity, right here in the nest!! Might there be backstage passes in the future for some of your feathered friends?! I'm just sayin'...

Oh, and I already have it Tivo'd!

MEK in AZ said...

LL - just read your blog about your "babies"... thank you for sharing..

our animals are our kids!! just about killed me to have Barney put down recently, but I'm getting over it!!

We have taught them all excellent manners!! :-)

Shirley(NCC-1701) said...

Hi everyone! Lunch with mum was good. She made me a Chocolate Miracle Whip cake. Very yummy!

Thanks for all the birthday wishes on myspace Lani, Bonnie, Carol x 2, Just lin, Barbara, Tina x 3, Dianne, Mary, Zona x 3, Jodi, Maureen, Birdee, VIG, Mek, Sandie, Tinka, Dreama, Sacbarb and K-girl. Thanks for all the birthday wishes here Zona, Scirish, Mek, Lynn D, Tinka, Whabbear, Sandie, Goldie, Donna Jean, Tina, Sacbarb, Dreama, Bebbi, Jodi and Outatuune. You guys are great!

MEK in AZ said...

Bono - Too save money -

I always grocery shop using the weekly flyer - It's amazing how much money I can save just getting what is on sale!!

MEK in AZ said...

Shirley - Glad to hear that you had a great day!!

SO- when does the party start in here??!!
:-)

MEK in AZ said...

I'll bbl.

Our stomachs are telling us it's time for dinner!!

Shirley(NCC-1701) said...

Mek I have been thinking about your blog. The obvious answer for me would be Dad, but then I read Zona's answer and I agree with her. To let him go a second time would be too difficult.

So if I could I would give my extra day to you so you would have 2 more days with your Dad to do all the things you wanted to.

Anonymous said...

Just got home from work and have been thinking about this blog all day! Thank you so much MEK for writing a blog that allows us to imagine what it would be like to be with that one person one more time!

Owls, your stories of who you would spend one more day with, brought a tear to my eye. Such heartfelt stories!

My Mom passed away many years ago. In fact, when I turn 50 next summer, she will have been gone for the same amount of years that she was in my life. She died just as video cameras and such were becoming household items, so there isn't any video footage of her. Hence I haven't heard her voice since August 30th, 1984. So I would like to just sit with her and talk to her and hear her voice again and hear her laugh and look into the eyes of one who loved me unconditionally. Oh, if only!

From Area 51...Sandie and Donna Jean, thank you for your incredibly kind words! I am so lucky to have the opportunity to do the work that I do.

Tink...thinking of you. Hope it went well today!

Shirley....happy, happy birthday. Hope you have had a really fun day!

Bebbilane said...

Thanks Mek..for the comments on my wishing well blog. :)

Lani said...

I haven't felt like writing today, but I just glanced through the blog and read SHIRLEY'S entry to MEK, and it touched me deeply. What a very kind gesture. It brought tears to my eyes.

MEK in AZ said...

OMG --

Shirley - you, literally, just took my breath away.. you are SO giving - and you just don't see that in yourself!!! You are ONE VERY special lady!! thank you!!!

MEK in AZ said...

Lani - (((HUGS)))

Caryn said...

Hi Shirley,

I just realized you aren't in my myspace friends (I do not keep up with this very well I'm afraid).

I can't find you in myspace. Can you send a friend request to http://www.myspace.com/outatuune so I can send you belated bday wishes tomorrow?

What a wonderful and generous gesture you made to MEK, and on YOUR birthday no less. We are truly blessed by your presence in the nest!

night.owls.sb said...

Shirley:
You absolutely amaze me with your kindness. You are truly a gift...

♥♥♥

night.owls.sb said...

Shirley:
I am glad you had a good day with your mum. And very glad your b'day was special...

:O)

night.owls.sb said...

Who wants a jello shot?

night.owls.sb said...

Lois Lane:
You have always had my vote, as I have always enjoyed your writing, especially your beginnings with me, when you sent me your "Lane" growing up stories...

So you betcha! I will watch Rosie..

(Geez did I just sound like Sarah Palin, well for me thats a good thing) :O)

night.owls.sb said...

Zona:

For you...

A blue Jello Shot!

:O)

night.owls.sb said...

Ok, No takers for the jello shots...

So I will have them all myself :O)

BBL....

Just_Lin said...

LL/NoNewz Keeping my fingers crossed for you that your dream job materializes.

Carol Yes, I think we should have jello shots all around in honor of our Shirley's birthday.

MEK in AZ said...

I'm in for a jello shot or two or three!!!

:-)

I think Tribal Council is going to be GREAT!!!

MEK in AZ said...

are we marching!!!

MEK in AZ said...

96

MEK in AZ said...

97

MEK in AZ said...

98

MEK in AZ said...

99

MEK in AZ said...

00

MEK in AZ said...

HAPPY DANCE!!!

MEK in AZ said...

ha ha...

I got 00!!!
;-0

plus - I think my breath should have been breathe!! heck, I don't know!!

all I know if that Shirley REALLY threw me a curve ball tonight.. I can't think straight...

i think with my extra day - I will NOT be selfish and let my dad spend time with my little brother and his family. To be able to meet his daughter-in-law and hold his two grandsons....

you see, my little brother was only in high school when my father died - so I know he would be proud of the young man he has grown up to be and to see him with his family and the love he has for his wife and two children..

that would be my second "one more day".......

Shirley -thank you again!!

Bebbilane said...

Well, I really didn't want to, but I did it. I walked 9,109 steps. It wasn't so bad after a bit. With 3 pairs of pants on (well, 2 pants, one tights), 2 shirts, a coat, a large scarf, ear muffs, ear band, hat, 2 pairs of socks and gloves, I actually got kinda warm.! And, I feel so glad that I didn't give in to my desire just to "not do it".

Going to read more comments.

Just_Lin said...

MEK What a perfect way to use that "extra" day. Oh, and congtats on 00! :)

Bebbie You continue to be an inspiration! Way to go!

Bebbilane said...

Dreama: What happened to your friend's mom?

Bebbilane said...

Just Lin: Thanks! I am glad I did too.

Shirley(NCC-1701) said...

Thank you everyone! You have all made a wonderful addition to my birthday.

Mek you are very welcome. ((HUGS))

I am going to bed now. I have to do some more training at the tax office tomorrow and I have the final meeting of our Christmas club tomorrow night. We are going to have corned beef and cabbage for supper. I can't wait.

Scirish remember if you get first tomorrow you will be tied with Lynn D:)

Good night everyone!

Donna Jean said...

Good Evening Everyone!

Well, today was kind of a bummer for me!

I went in for my MRI, the Receptionist at Kaiser said I had to pay $538 up front before they would perform the procedure! I know my plan changed a bit this year, but WTF, that much $$$ BEFORE they would even do the MRI? I really didn't want to do it, but I put it on a card.

Then, when I went in, and got ready to lay down on that tiny table, my back just said NO! I had the most god-awful spasm I have had in some time! It is usually in my legs, and today it was my back. I tried the pillow under the knees, holding a small pillow on my chest, deep breathing, etc. Nothing helped. Every time I thought I had it under control, another one would happen.

So, no MRI for me today. I have another one scheduled for tomorrow at 1:30, don't know if that will work either, but I am definitely taking my Valium before, and dressing warmer.

Anyway back to the $$$ thing. I called my Benefits Manager with my Union, and she was appalled they did that! She said NOT to pay any money tomorrow, and gave me a phone # to call if they insist. Well, I sure am not forking over my Visa to Kaiser!

We have a Supplemental Insurance that will pick up any out of pocket expenses, other than routine medical visits and prescriptions.

So, I was feeling crappy anyway today, and after that experience, I felt even more depressed, and slept most of the afternoon!

Poor Olive didn't get in her two daily walks. Am I a bad New Mom?? I do have a nice backyard for her to romp in, and we did that a few times.

I sure hope she stays asleep all night, since she and I had those naps this afternoon!

After reading everyone's comments after I posted, has made me cry even more.

I think I better just go and get comfy with a blanket, and a nice glass of wine, and think "relaxation" so I can be better prepared tmorrow for that damn MRI!

Have a wonderful evening, my dear Owls,

Peace and Love,
Donna Jean, Laurie Elizabeth & Olive

night.owls.sb said...

Donna Jean:
Oh boy, sorry you could not go thru with it today, tomorrow will be better... And don't fork over nothing, let them contact your insurance company...

Good Luck tomorrow...

night.owls.sb said...

I had about 15 Jello Shots. I realized on my 13th one I forgot to put the liquor in them. So now I am a floating bowl of jello, and straight as an arrow...

Well thats not fun!

Maureen said...

Good evening feathered friends!

MEK...oh my gosh...your blog is beautiful. I wish you could have that day.

My first reaction was to have one more day with either my mom or dad...or both. But to lose them again would be too painful. I think they hear me tell them I love them. My dad has been watching from heaven since I was 8 and my mom for 11+ years, so as painful it was to lose them, I am sure they are happy to be together again in heaven.

Then I thought I would want to have the last day of my cousin Leah's life as a OMD to share. Then, she would not have been on that road and the drunken stoned bastard that killed her would not have been able to cross the yellow line and hit her car head on. Leah and I would probably go have some lunch and an ice cream, we would laugh our asses off and then we would hug each other tightly, tell each other we love each other and leave with ginormous smiles on our faces.

Or, I'd take OMD with my ex so I could tell him to his face what an asshole he is ;)~ !

night.owls.sb said...

I got a flip... Yep I took the plunge.. I have been playing around with it a bit. I have alot to learn. So for know I will continue to play, and hopefully it will not be that hard...

I did upload a video, not sure how, just followed the instructions.

So, I might be flipping at ya real soon ;O)

night.owls.sb said...

Mo!!!

Your on top of me... ;o)

night.owls.sb said...

Mo:
OMD?

Maureen said...

DONNA JEAN...I am so sorry you had such a crappy day. Tomorrow will be better. And NOOO, you are not a bad new mommy!
I had a $500 co-pay when I had my MRI. I was pissed, so when I went to the hospital to get the films to take to the surgeon, i kept them! My goal is to one day frame them ;)~

CAROL...is it too late for a jello shot? Pretty please!

SHIRLEY...so glad your birthday was happy and fun and tasty!!

NO NEWZ...you have my vote! I read your blogs and was totally impressed! I hope you get that shot you deserve and want.

TINA...too old? Your a kid!!

ZONA...hi sweets!

It has been snowing all fricken day here. It isn't supposed to stop until Sat...then start again on Sunday.

I hit the mother-lode at the hell hole tonight. A new record for tips...........$1.17. I thought of calling Brinks to escort me home!

Maureen said...

CAROL...OMD...One More Day...not Orchestral Maneuvers in the Dark!

night.owls.sb said...

Those cheap tippers... The heck with them, you should have just spiked their coffee. And what you spike it with, well that is your secret..

:O)

night.owls.sb said...

I kinda like the 2nd one... It is somewhat pornish..

:O)

Maureen said...

VIG...I hope you are feeling better.

BONO...did you meet up with your ex? details, details details!!!

SANDY...your thanksgiving sounds lovely. Can I come? LOL

night.owls.sb said...

Mo:
So sweet, your OMD with Leah, and I am sure she would have loved to have you beside her, to chat, to smile, to love. ♥♥♥

Maureen said...

CAROL...are you gonna make pornos with your Flip????

night.owls.sb said...

Mo:
Its not a plus size Flip?

Silly Goose...

Maureen said...

CAROL..good to know your SSO has a plus size package ;0~ Does the flip have a zoom lens!!

night.owls.sb said...

Sorry mo.... I am the plus size :O)

SSO, well, we will just let you imagine..

:O)

night.owls.sb said...

A microscope might come in handy tho!

LOL

I crack myself up...

:O)

night.owls.sb said...

I am off to bed...

My eyes are tired...

See ya all tomorrow...

:O)

Mo:
Don't you put no porn on tonite, I will send Birdee to fly my so she can tell me...

Mek:
Great blog today! I felt as tho we celebrated life today, it was def a good feeling... Blessings to your dad...

Shirley;
Your birthday is over, however you are still special as ever...

♥♥♥

Maureen said...

CAROL...LOL!! You CRACKyourselfupWHORE!

night.owls.sb said...

Good Night All...

night.owls.sb said...

Mo:
Yep that is me....

The crackwhore who cracks herself up...

:O)

night.owls.sb said...

130

night.owls.sb said...

Mo:
I left you a grape jello shot, sorry tho it has not liquor in it.. Just pretend is does ok?

night.owls.sb said...

132

night.owls.sb said...

133

night.owls.sb said...

134...Ha that felt good...

Not sure way tho :O)

night.owls.sb said...

Not sure WHY tho...

told ya I was sleepy

night.owls.sb said...

Ok...really going now...

Tinkatia said...

I am home from my computer meeting. I didn't win the draw prize but they liked the two pictures I showed, so I am glad I entered. It was a little embarrassing as there were some fantastic photographers showing their best picture.

I will read all the comments tomorrow. I know they are great.

Thanks again for the great blog Mek.

Good Night everyone and God Bless you all.
Love, Tinka

Tinkatia said...

138

Tinkatia said...

139

Tinkatia said...

140

MEK in AZ said...

cpgem - yeah - you got a flip!! can't wait to see what you do with it...

MO - howdy - thanks for sharing your OMD...

Tinka - good night!!

MEK in AZ said...

I'm getting ready to go to bed myself..

BUT -

I want to thank everyone for making this a GOOD day for me - this is usually my WORSE day of the year........ and you all made it an excellent day!!

SO - THANK YOU!!

thank you also for sharing your stories........ i really appreciate it.....

I hope everyone has an excellent Friday!!
:-)

hugs to all.........

Tina~in_ut said...

Goodnight Tinka and MEK~

***Attn Whore Watchers!!!!***

hodi is at the movies....eating popcorn, drinking soda, and she said something about cookieho candy! hmmmm~ She said something about a sore neck as well....wonder if she's "working" at the movies or is just sitting in row 3!!! :)~

Tina~in_ut said...

carol~ can't wait for your porno's~ oops....were those a secret? :D

Dreama said...

Bebbi
Sorry, I was out tonight. My friend's Mom died of breast cancer. She was in the 4th stage when they found it. Her Mom went to HS with my Dad.
Outauune
Glad that my Twits reached you and I'm glad they didn't cost you in cell phone roaming minutes.I tried a couple times to post your messages here.
Again Shirley, I am glad that you had an enjoyable birthday! xoxo
It's past midnight so bedtime.

Dreama said...

Donna Jean
(((hugs)))

whabbear said...

DJ: Good luck tomorrow! Hugs!

Just_Lin said...

DonnaJean I'm so sorry about your day today and I sure hope things go better tomorrow. That MRI co-pay is UNBELIEVABLE!

Shirley I love corned beef and cabbage! I'm so glad you had a good day. :)

Jodi said...

ATTN: KMART SHOPPERS!!!

TINA got it right....and I ate ALL the cookieho candy!!! And yes, I was in the 3rd row, but my neck is FINE!!!

Jodi said...

150!!!

Tinkatia said...

Good Morning All.

Dianne/Denver said...

Morning Tink

Tinkatia said...

Dianne - Good Morning. I am going to leave you to beat Scirish. I couldn't sleep so I thought I would wait until 6:00 when the new blog posted but I am not going to wait until 6:15. I hope I can sleep another hour.

Jodi said...

Good morning TINKA and DIANNE!!! I wonder who it will be?!!?

Zona said...

Good Morning TINKA, DIANNE and JODI!!

Dianne/Denver said...

I am up because another smoke alarm started chiping on the very high ceiling, Hi Jodi

Jodi said...

Good morning ZONA!!

Zona said...

JODI: Angel is being an angel and making breakfast!! :D

Shirley(NCC-1701) said...

I think I will be last on my birthday. No one will find me here.

Last!!