A Hallowed Good News

Here we go again.  Yes, it is another good news regurgitated.  Perhaps some blood and gore. Or a little trick and we kick off another episode of Good News with some bad news.  How about some drama.  This may get you a little depressed but there will be none of that crap.  This is Good News.  Drama free but maybe some blood, gore and regurgitation.  So take this.





Good News from way back in the week of 17 Oct 2015

• Melissa reports that Ethan took forth place in Feis (Irish Dance)  So awesome.  Proof positive that if you put forth the effort you will get the prize. (pun intended)
• Niny tells us that she made it through the 5 mile mark at the Tough Mudder.  That race is no joke.  I am sure mud is still being found weeks later.
• According to Josie that it has been 6 months since Max's bad diagnosis and he is still with us.  Way to go Max.  Forget what the diagnosis says.  That is what I always say.
• Donna is giving big props to the coaches that are getting her ready for the Philadelphia Marathon.  She completed her 15 mile run and walked another 2 miles the next day.  Evidently, her legs are still attached.  I start off by saying Go Team and then Go Donna.  You are doing great and I will be out there cheering you on.  Remember as one of Duff's Donnas we say "eff cancer."
• Danielle set a PR at Frank Loyd Wright race.  This time the time was recorded under her name where the previous PR was under a friends name.  Congratulations on the PR.  It seems like some sort of theme in today's good news.  Spooky, isn't it.
• Cindy celebrated her fathers 80th birthday with many of his friends and family.  One day I will be that young.  
• Stephanie logs in with an 8 mile run.  I need to get myself out there and put on some miles as well.  Good on ya.
• Space, the Psycho and I spent the weekend in NYC where we stayed a cute little B&B.  We toured around SOHO which included a personalized BirchBox and custom lipstick among other things.  All topped off with a visit to the Bronx Zoo and a little party at my sister's boyfriends place.  We had a cool yet exhausting weekend.

 What a great bunch of good news.  About that theme it seems best said that with hard work come the reward.  Keep up the hard work and the tiny victories.  I miss these little reminders and need to work harder at getting them republished.  Thanks everybody and Boo!

Good News: Eventually Posted with Classic Good New Thrown In

Hey everybody.  It is about that time that I sit down and get some good news out.  I know that 2015 has been a sporadic year for my good news posts.  I try to remember to ask for these tiny, non-drama related victories on a regular basis but again that is not to be.  Well, things have been going great for me these days.  I have stayed out of the hospital for over a month.  The psycho finished the seventh grade and is now a teenager.  I guess I should expect some new drama in my life but I think I can handle it.
The weird part is that I am writing this from the blood and marrow transplant unit here at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital where I recieved my stem cell transplant and where I am usually taken when I have complications.  Unlike other times in the past, I am just here as a visitor to say hi to the staff of physician assistants, technician, doctors and ,of course, the Rescue Ninjas (RNs).   They got startled when I came by because they thought I was sick again but instead I just wanted to visit and used there family lounge for some piece and quiet.  Either way, it is great feel so welcome and realize that there are people that truelly care about my well being.  That is those beyond my family that are legally required to care no matter what a jerk I become.  Either way, I should get on to some good news that was share with me in the past few weeks.

Good News for the month of July 2015 with some classic good news thrown in as well.:

• Josie spread the news that it was Dave's birthday.  Way to go.  You survived another revolution around the sun.  I sure miss running with you dude.  I know I was slow but you were amazingly patient.  Our last run was a blast through the double scissors (I think that was the name) course.
• Mandy reports that her step daughters and her all set new PRs at the 5k that weekend.  The icing on the cake was coming in 1st and 2nd in the age groups.  Also, a negative (clear) report came from the bone growth biopsy on her step son's femur.  Those may be beyond the category of tiny victory.  In the spirit the Tour de France lets call them HC tiny victories.
• Sherrie saw Violent Femmes, Barenaked Ladies and Rolling Stones all live in Raleigh last week.  Once again another HC tiny victory.  I am so jealous.
• Danielle completed 4 weeks of C2 5k training without the need of an inhaler.  Also, she tried kayaking for the first time.  So cool.  Keep up the good work.
• Time for some Classic Good News:  Maggie and Chuck finnaly joined the 21st century and got smart phones with data plans and everything.  It is awesome to be able to connect the world with such ease.
• Donna has had some knee trouble but got a new knee brace and gutted out a good six miler with TnT.  She also took the kids to Shankweiler's Drive In Theatre to see Minions and Terminator.  So awesome.  Space, the Psycho and I love drive in theaters.  We will have to check it out soon.  Even more to add, she got some dictation work which always helps but she is having some trouble with some oddball friend that keeps asking for good news.  What a jerk. He must be tired of all the drama in the world and the media that covers it.
• Cindy was helping with finding that special one to say yes to the dress with her daughter.  I know the perfect dress is out there and you guys will find it if you haven't already.
• Maggie came back with the countdown for her granddaughter coming to visit.  I believe it is only 3 weeks now.  I know you guys will have fun but remember she is a teenager now and remember how I was at that age.  I guess the real good news is that you get to put back on a plane to her parents afterwards.  

What a great batch of good news.  Oh, damn I forgot.  My good news is that I ran.  That is right.  I ran for a grand total of a quarter of a mile with walking warm up and cool down added on.  It was short and my lungs burned but it felt good.  It felt so awesome to just move the feet and see the world through the runners eyes again.  Again, I think we may have to categorize this as a HC tiny victory. 
Well, that is it for now and thanks so much for sharing.

Finally: The Good News is Back for 2015

     You smell that?  It is the good news from all of you.  I know I kind of left this in limbo.  Starting with cutting the year short in November 2014.  Then kind of stumbling out of the blocks for 2015.  As most of you know I have been going through bouts of recovery this year.  I asked for some good news in Mid January and you guys did great with some gems from Danielle like :  "Almost all traces of Christmas have been packed away until next year - the exception would be the ridiculous amount of chocolate I received from my students...." Unfortunately, my recovery needed more recovery and I woke up about a week later with serious holes in my memory.  I actually, couldn't remember if the College National Championship had taken place and those days prior like even asking for good news were gone.  It is what is known as Milk of Amnesia that put me under just enough to keep me alive.
     I tried again and succeeded in February getting out some good news, just look.  But my body quit again and again I woke up in the middle of the night many days later not knowingTh what had happened.  Still this is a good news blog and I will summarize from then to now.  I woke up and the Doc asked if I knew what month it was.
Me: February!
Doc:  Sorry, it's March.  Then another episode later in March but we caught it quicker and I did not have be made unconscious.  To round it up, I asked for good news in April a couple of times and got another great turn out with a victory like Helen with re-installing Beta Mu with Mark Evaniak and Kip Nally.  It's good to see another Alpha Chi Sigma chapter back in the mix.
     So here it is, May.  I will not forget the previous sharing of tiny victories so I will bring them back as "Good News Classics" to intersperse with the current events of the time.  So here it is the Good News:

Good News for the week of 9 May 2015

• Josie says that Max is having a good day and went on a nice walk in the park with Dave. We are enjoying everyday we have with him.  Max is a good guy and I hope he has many more good days.
• Stephanie survived her comprehensive exams.  Congratulations.  Ah, grad school.  Sometimes, I wonder if I am glad I got out of academia or not.  Who am I kidding, no school for me.  
• I had a great walk with Space while The Psycho was at swim practice.  It was awesome just to get back to moving.  This is the start I need to get back to running.
• Good News Classic: Abbey in April came at us with "Hanging with my TNT teammates on our training weekend. It's raining so more bonding than training, but still a great time."  Go Team and training the rain is awesome.
• Danielle got a gift certificate for a manicure from a Teacher Appreciation Week raffle.  Oh a new set of hands to teach with.  
• Donna had a great mothers day with Kelly cooking for her and some much wanted music.  We got Space and her mother Chris out for some dinner.  Mother's day has always been a fine time to get the family together and have a good time.  Donna is also commenting about how good the weather has been and how perfect it is for getting out for a run for training or not.
• Maggie enjoyed a quiet Mother's day and even got a video call from the Son and Granddaughter.  It was good seeing the top of yours and dads head as well, mom.  

A nice set of tiny victories.  I know the world seems to be going down the tubes sometimes and there seems to so much drama surrounding us that we may tend to forget that there is actually good things happening to us everyday.  I certainly hope this keeps up and we and I will get the Good News blogging back into the shape it was last year. Though I have been lacking in my blogging, Space has been going at it with her Jen-illocity blog.  Check it out.  Till next time guys.

Don't Call It a Comeback: Good News 14 Feb 15

Don't call it a comeback. I've been here for years. I am finally ready to start up the good news dialog again.  A little insight, I decided to take a break while I was getting my stem cell transplant and return with a fury once I was able to put the appropriate effort.  So here it was, Valentines day and I woke up realizing that we needed to share all of our good news again.  I promise that I will let you guys know more about the transplant and it will be posted on my other blog Rachaelsdaddy's Blog.  One more thing is I want to give an big shoutout to my mother (Maggie) for guest blogging the last Good News while I was feeling under the weather during the transplant.  She was a little nervous about it but as I expected she knocked out of the park.  Okay.  I know it is cold and the Good News engine hasn't been started in three and half months but lets turn the key and see if it fires up.

Good News for the Week of 14 February 2015:

• Susan had her dryer fixed at no cost.  It was a loose part and the repair man was on top of it at no charge.  I hate say it is getting rare to see that type of kindness and good business practices.  Good on you dude.  
• Okay, taking a deep breath and:  Danielle is excited to see the Good News coming back.  Thanks.  That is not all.  She is also learning more about the Universe as she plans more for the Space Science unit.  I would recommend some of the shows that Netflix has like How the Earth Was Made and Through the Wormhole.  They are a wealth of information and cool graphics. Part Pi:  She and Mark are committed to going to gym twice a week and they are gradually getting used to it.  That reminds me I need to do something similar.  To top it off some very sweet notes and chocolates from her students were enjoyed as a prelude to the play they performed on Saturday night.  And exhale.
• Allison reminds us that her Cassie is a year older as of this past Saturday.  I can remember when you were just a toddler and refuse to believe that all this time has passed.  Happy Birthday young lady.
• According to Matt a new colony has sprung up just 2 miles from the parent chapter.  Expansion on a universal scale.  I believe we are still accelerating.  I look forward to the installation of a new chapter of Alpha Chi Sigma.
  
• After three years of patience Jen has gotten the appropriate length for donation. (See Picture)  To top it off the resultant styling is awesome. I have to admit that I was worried about the end result.  This originally came from a promise not to cut her hair till she got a job in TN.  Though we moved back to PA 2.5 years ago we held her to the promise.  For many good reasons The Psycho and I released her from vow.
• Maggie is loving life. She had great calls with her granddaughter (The Psycho) and me.  Being in Florida is also an advantage over the frigid weather her in Philly.  Well played mom, well played.
• Pam has the best news we can expect.  "Everything here is as Normal as can be."  In the end is there any more that we can reasonably ask for?
• Donna says it was great to see me.  Right back at you.  At some point we need to get out for a run.
• Cindy was attending an marriage enrichment weekend in Lake Geneva, WI.  To top it off she had Jim's undivided attention from the shop as well.  Sometimes it is great to just get away, isn't it?  
• I have to put an endcap to this with I reached 100 on Sunday.  There will be more on what that means later in the Rachaelsdaddy's Blog page.  

Okay, it was a come back and what a comeback it was.  Our tiny victories and plethora of good news warms me in the right places.  Trust me, we need as much warmth as possible.  For no other reasons than to stop the complaining and arguing with the Psycho about wearing a coat.  Still, I am so glad that you are willing to share with the community.  I will do my best to keep up with this and encourage my guest bloggers to contribute as well.  There may be some format changes that I will try in the future.  Feel free to let me know your thoughts and recommendations on that subject.  Till next time, Toodles.

Good News in October. So Far ... running, birthdays, organizing and much more

I know, I know.  As some of you might remember I said I would update the good news as soon as I open my laptop.  Well, I will be honest.  I have just opened it for the first time in over a week today.  I just have been under motivated.  Actually, I have been sleeping.  I think the radiation is wearing me out.  Oh yeah, I am getting zapped on purpose.  We are getting ready for the last of the treatments and that was a little radiation to the lung.  Soon, I shall get angry and turn into a huge green rage monster.
In an case, I am glad you guys have stuck with me and shared your drama free good news.  The world has gotten even worse in some senses with the election coming up and the shooting in Ottawa.  Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and fine Canadian soldiers that were senselessly killed this past week.  I hope that even through all of this madness we can see the great tiny victories we have every day.  So here it is.

Good News for the Weeks of 11 and 18 October 2014

• I got to run this past weekend.  It was just a mile and it was very windy but it was awesome.  I will get out again this weekend. Space, please remind me to get out of bed and do this.
• Josie got back from her vacation at Siesta Key.  I have heard how awesome that place is.  Perhaps I shall visit it some time.  Also, perhaps you might visit Duck and Marathon Key.
• Stephanie ran 7 miles last weekend.  I hope it wasn't as windy as my run but otherwise totally awesome.  One day we might actually go on a run together, I hope.
• Danielle gave an update on the re-organization of her classroom.  It is finally feeling like "hers/mine" and  the seating arrangement is more conducive to doing labs.  Mark helped with some decorations.  Evidently it is time for a review of the expectations which is teacher speak for reminding everybody of the rules.  I remember those reminders in labs usually came with a suspension because of some fire I caused.  Here comes the boom.  Her students like to clean glassware.  In my entire academic and professional career I have never seen anybody that likes to clean glasswear.  There must be some amazing reward that she is giving out, like chocolate perhaps?
• Gwen is with her old trainer again.  Totally awesome. 
• Donna had a bike ride with Sean through Pennypack Park on an awesome day.  I agree the mild weather has been amazing and given us amazing chances to enjoy the go out to places like Pennypack.  That is a cool park.
• Jennifer had a good birthday.  Cool and happy birthday.  You have survived the Earth hurtling around the sun one more time.  If you have to grow old, never grow up.
• Melissa designed her new kitchen and her bother-in-law the contractor approved it.  Great, more chance for bread pudding and cobbler. 
• Howard had a great time at the North Central District (Regional) Conclave.  I have always heard great things about the event and one day I will attend.
• Melissa's twins turned 9.  My, how time flies.  Did we grow up so fast when we were kids?
• Donna is taking charge and to top it off she ran a 5 mile race.  Results please.  5 milers were always fun races.  I remember one back in Ohio with all you can eat pancakes afterward.
• Space reports that the Psycho had her first US meet of the season.  Three days of swimming awesomeness and a great way to start the season.
• Maggie has finalized her plans for the trip to Philly.  I'll see you in about a week and a half.
• Pam had some great visits with her mom and did some craft projects along the way.  It is awesome and say hey to Peggy and the rest of the gang for me.
• Danielle had a great bike ride downtown for Open House Chicago.  It sound like a lot of fun.  

So much good news to share and I am overjoyed by all of it.  I may be transfering some of the good news duties in the coming weeks to some guest bloggers.  It all depends on how my body is reacting to the treatment.  In any case, it will be an interesting few weeks so I look forward to more good news.  Also, check out Spaces new/old review blog.  It is awesome as well.

Like a Spy Being Outted by Scooter Libby, Here some old Good News

Lets say I was sneaking around with all the clear intentions of getting this done almost a week ago.  But then I would sit down and look at the TV and not want to get up.  Then I would find that the clock had mysteriously moved several hours and I thought I had just closed my eyes for just a minute.  I am going to keep saying that my body is just not able to make it through the day without a little rest.  I keep trying but I cannot stay awake through the day.  So I will take as many moments as I can to get this done in the future.  In any case, I don't want to diminish the boat loads and ship loads of amazing tiny victories that have been shared.  And to prove to all of you just how high the level of narcicism is, I will start with news of my own.  :{p

Good News for the Week of 13 September 2014

• I ran.  That's right I ran.  It has been a long time and I have more of that coming.
• Chuck saw Lewis Black in London.  That must have been an amazing yet angry show.  That was London, Ontario.  I was originally thinking Ohio but Chuck cleared it up.
• Maggie got a new table.  Awesome, I can't wait to see it.
• Looks like Maggie also won at bingo.
• Danielle says that Autumn, her cat, has been especially snugly lately and was curled up in her lap as she sent the news.  I miss my cat she used to paw at Space's head all the time and it was her way of trying to kill Space.  I swear she was trying to kill her.  It was funny.
• Christina worked both that Saturday and Sunday.  I miss working.  Lately I find that I just try and keep educated.
• Josie had a birthday.  I don't know how I missed that but here is what I say to everybody's birthday.  If you have grow old, may you never grow up.  And just for you.  It's only muscles.
• Cindy had her son Anthony visiting from Florida.  Best to do that before winter hits Wisconsin.  
• Maggie won a shirt at bingo and it was sent to me.  It was a nice shirt and is now part of the Psycho's pajama collection.

Well, that's it for a that week.  I will be coming at you with another one soon.  I am so glad you guys shared all of your tiny victories with me and each other. 

I am Returning from a Blogging Vacation- Good News 6 Sep 14

Well, I'm back.  I know I kind of took an unintentional vacation along with a labor day weekend  vacation. In all honesty I was tired.  The latest chemo has taken its toll on me and I have found that naps are plentiful and long.  Either way, once again the world is going insane and it seems like even the good news is being called bad.  Perhaps, those in the media need to look at the tiny victories that have been shared and realize we don't need the negativity.  Now look at the joy on puppies face.  I found this picture when I was looking up pictures of good news.  In any case, one more excuse is prominent.  I had spent a bit of time putting together another web site for the little consulting company I have.  So here we go.

Good News for the Week of 6 September 2014

• Niny ran her first half mile, ever.  I hope this is the start of many miles in the future.
• Dona completed her 12 mile run for the upcoming race.  I love organized training plans.  Also, the kids are back to school and so far thing are going well.  Also, she found a soccer program for the kids. 
• Susan would like to remind us that football season is back.  Also, her two uncles that were in the hospital are now home.  
• Melissa survived camping with her mother and 3 kids.  Such an ordeal is stuff of legend and mythology.  
• Maggie had a good week at bridge but is taking a break for some belated spring cleaning.  I am sure that cards be back soon.\
• Donna had "16 totally gross miles."  That is the pain of running fall races.  It calls for summer training.
• Laura had a great day hiking and the moment of posting Tech was ahead.  There is more to come on that subject.
• Jason is obviously looking forward to a fall break trip to Traverse City, MI. 
• Pam reports that Mathew recovering well from his sinus surgery and tonsillectomy.  He will be returning to school this week.  Also, they had a good time visiting with my aunt Peggy including a surprise breakfast.  We are all glad to have her smile these days. 
• Danielle has survived her first two weeks as a middle school teacher.  She also went for a bike ride on a beautiful day and met with friends from Madison and their adorable baby boy.  Middle school can be trying.  Those kids start forming their own opinions and that can be awesome and troubling at the same time.
• Jason came back with something simple and awesome.  Virginia Tech 35, Ohio State 21.
• I also anounced the Hokie win.  Hokie hokie hokie hi, Tech tech VPI, Sol a rex, Sol a rah, Polytech Virgin-a, Ray Rah VPI, Team team team.
• Christopher says that the Vikings have learned to tackle in the off season and has applied it in week 1.
• Chuck went for a 9 mile hike on Kelly's Island on day two of his 15day road trip.  Sounds like fun.
• Jennifer made it to Salt Lake City without indecent.  That is a miracle given the state of our domestic air travel.
• Space is done.  It was a lot of work that paid off in a successful FACT inspection.  
• Sherrie reached the end of the chemo regiment.  What a nice feeling that must be.

So much great news.  I dare you to feel sad after all of that great news.  Okay, you Ohio State fans/alums may be a little sad but I would be sure that the game would be different if Braxton Miller was not hurt.  So besides that it was amazing and I am so glad you shared.  I look forward to next weeks. 

Tada: It's the Good News

I bet you guys actually did it in the Professor's voice.  Well, it's that time again.  Of course I really want to put this out on Wednesdays but that is the day that naps are a plentiful.  So I got a slew of good news to blurb out.  It was a good set.  And I think I got it all this time.  Let me check to make sure.  Wait just as second.  {Jeopardy music plays in the background} Okay, I checked now I am really certain I got it all.  I just checked again and yep I have to a very high probability that I got it all.  So here it is.


Good News for the Week of 2 July 2014

• Josie had her 11th annual YMCA picnic just this past weekend and had over a hundred people attend.  That is awesome.  I can't believe you have been there over 11 years but it makes sense because the Psycho is 12 and we met you shortly after she was born.  
• Jeff enjoyed touring campus with the Psycho and found some cool fun spots.  I know she had fun because in some of the pictures you sent Space the Psycho was almost smiling.
• Donna reports that the Team coaches think she can do a sub-6 hour marathon and she is going to prove them right.  I know you can too.  That will be my new goal once I get back on the road.
• Danielle has a montly good news where thanks to some awesome weather she set a personal record of 615.8 miles on her bike for July. That is awesome.  I wish sometimes I liked riding my bike but then I lace up and go for a run.
• Cindy and her 4H kids did an incredible job on the float for the Sunday parade during Eden Firemen's picnic weekend.  You have to let us know if the float wins any awards. 
• Donna had a successful dinner where her husband got to hang out with his childhood friend that he hadn't seen in 20 years.  To top it off another friend came over the next day for dinner.  Reunions are awesome.  I had that chance last fall when I went to my 20 year high school reunion.  It was awesome but disappointing that there was a low turnout.
• Bob said the good news for his week was seeing me.  I'm touched but not there.  I was glad to see you as well.  I miss having my very own sommelleir.  I had a bottle of Chilean wine that I would have liked to have shared with you if I could have gotten back.
• Pam had a day off and she spent it with Bo and Mathew (a.k.a. her boys) and then take a nap.  That is what I like to call Sunday.
• Melissa says her husband got a new job with a pay raise equal to their mortgage.   That is awesome.  Hopefully the grass will be greener on the other side or at least a different shade of green.

Once again, you guys have come through with another big bag of good news.  I forgot to share last week but I will think of something.  It won't be that hard.  Either way, thanks for sharing.  Remember that when the world is going bat shit insane and it all seems like doom and gloom we have our tiny victories to remind everybody that there is still something good going on.

Due to a Failure of Situanal Awareness, Bonus Good News

It was not long after I posted the Good News for the previous week that I thought something was up.  It seemed like I remember there being other news posted.  I thought I had posted things but my brain has been playing tricks on me lately.  It thought that I could drive 502 miles in less than 24 hours and over 1004 miles through the entire week between Charlottesville and Philly.  Luckily I did not do it. My body intervened and told the Brain where that idea could go.  In any case, I looked back at the submissions and clicked on the thing that said "View 9 more comments."  There they were a bunch (9) of more submissions that I totally missed.  So due to my lack of Situational Awareness, I bring you the extra special Bonus Good News.

Bonus Good News for the Week of 26 July 2014

• I got to go down to to Charlottesville, for the Apha Chi Sigma Biennial Conclave and get to see so many friends that I call brothers.
• Matt, Susan and Claudia got to meet up with me and also had a blast at conclave.  It was fun and the plethora of hugs and hand shakes were awesome.  Thanks for the support guys.
• Josie reports that the Southeastern YMCA had a successful summer carnival and raised some money for the annual campaign. I am so glad that things are going well at the Y.  It was you guys that got me started running so I owe you guys a bunch.
• Cindy was stoked to see the family and I at conclave.  Though I missed Cindy, Space and the Psycho met up with her and had a good time.
• Donna has been running well on her training program and has been feeling great.  She also reports that she has been dealing with the little bad things going wrong with "grace and patience."   I am getting back to the running with some walking but will be back at it soon and perhaps I can get to run with my buddy in the future.
• Pam reports that Mathew got his braces out.  Check it out.
• 
  Melissa came at us with "My husband gets several weeks PAID vacation from his teaching job and he is not allowed to just cash it in this year. This means he will be around. His tightwad tendencies trumped his workaholic tendencies. We have come to an agreement that he will only work EVERY OTHER DAY ( at his side business)during his "vacation". Longstory short- my kids will actually get to see their father this summer ( he usually works 60-80 hrs/week in the summer."  I understand him to some point.  I really couldn't take a day off completely but Pete will have a good time with the kids.  Take from the guys who hasn't been able to work for almost 2 years.

Once again I am sorry for totally missing those other submissions.  I got fooled by Facebook again.  Any who, thanks to all of you guys for your awesome amazing good news.  So this Monday evening bonus is for all of you that have contributed.  May your Tuesday be a little bit better. Oh and a special shout out to Holly for joining the good news.  Thanks.

Just Like Chocolate, It's Good News

Well, I may get this out early since I started early.  Just like chocolate after a long day, good news can make things seem better.  So when I asked you guys for some you came charging in with your tiny victories.  It was awesome.  So here I am sharing them with the world.

Good News for the Week of 26 July 2014

• Chuck Carroll reminds many of us that it is Conclave this week.  I got a chance to spend a couple of days there and it was great seeing everybody.
• Jennifer got discharged from the Wound Clinic and does not have to go back.  That means her leg is almost healed with just another month of walking restrictions and compression tubes.  Sounds good and since I saw you earlier this week it looked like you were getting around fairly well but don't push too hard.
• Cindy reports that the VBS material is packed away for another year.  She is starting on the bins for the fair and then it is packing for Conclave.  I am not sure what most of that was but I am glad you finished it all up but I am also sorry our schedules did not mesh.  I was trying to get back after my business in Philly but my body said "TIRED!" So I listened to my body and not my brain because if you guys have read any of my other blogs Brain Bad.
• Susan came back with a report that her brother got his B.S. last week.  And she too was at Conclave.
• Pam says that after three weeks on vacation with the Alabama grandparents he has returned.  They celebrated by staying in a hotel in Louisiana then on to home in Texas.  I am sure you missed him even though you probably won't let on. 
• Donna has reached the $2000 fundraising milestone. Every penny counts for an amazing cause so please keep up the good fight and everyone else feel free to give a buck or more.  Go Team.
• Danielle say that Mark and her completed her first metric century ride of the year.  To top it off they may have had their first ever without a flat.  She is still on track for her goal of the year and she has signed up for another attempt at the 5k.  That is awesome and remember that running includes walking.  
• Holly started her new job as an RN this past week and she reports a hate for cancer.  We are all with you on that one and congratulations on the new job taking care of us in need.
• And Maggie got a new floor lamp for the den after six years of searching for one. I would say that you might have to high a criteria for a floor lamp.  Well, either way, I am sure it is pretty.

Okay, so some of you are wondering what is up with this Conclave I and others have been talking about.  Well, I belong to a professional chemistry fraternity called Alpha Chi Sigma and every two years we have our national meeting where we meet and conduct the business of the fraternity including stuff like chemical education and outreach.  It is awesome where I get a chance to see many of my brothers across the country that I haven't seen in two years.  I got to spend a couple of days at Conclave but had to come back to Philly to get more antibiotics.  It was cool as well as your sharing of your good news.  Thanks guys and I hope you keep bringing us all the tiny and not so tiny victories.

Almost Early, Here Comes the Good News 19 July 2014

Holy bull chips, I am actually getting to this in an almost reasonable time. It seems everytime I sit down to do this I get distracted by something and start something else.  I am like a dog and someone yells squirrel.  I have a joke for you guys.
-A squirrel walks up to a tree and says "I forgot to store acorns for winter and now I am dead." Ha! It is funny because the squirrel gets dead. Up, Pixar 2009
In any case I am here getting IVIG infused into me so I figured I better start on this.  You guys really came back with a bunch of good stuff.

Good News for the week of 19 July 2014

• Susan is happy that her friend are there for her and make her smile, keep her sane and have her back when it comes to bullies.  We are here for you Susan and your sanity was lost a long time ago.
• Matt, Jen and the girls are have been trying to walk more and managed to walk 6.5 miles last Saturday.  That is Space and the Psycho's plan as well.  I am too zonked by the time Space gets home to go for a walk.
• Christina reports that Johnathan is heading off to diabetes camp this week and that he is finally shaving the teenage wiskers/fuzz.  I remember those days it took a while before it started growing evenly.  Now days my girls like me as a Nerf Herder.  
• Josie let us know that Dave and Dolce will have their first therapy dog visit.  They will be at Light of Heart Villa on Tuesdays.  That is awesome.  I remember how important Booger (our basset hound) was when we were having a tough time.  
• Maggie won at bridge two days in a row and she lost 2 pounds.  That is awesome about the bridge and I am sure you will find those 2 pounds if you look hard enough. :P
• Abbey says that on Wednesday they will go before the judge and he will finalize the legal portion of the adoption of the 2 amazing kids "who have been ours in our hearts the minute they walked through the door 2.5 years ago."  Congratulations guys.  I am so happy for you.
• Danielle finished her compliance training, through a marathon session of video viewing, for the next school year.  Also, she got to wear her Konerko jersey to the White Sox game on Friday and got an orange and blue Sox hat because it was Illini night.  I-L-L!  That reminds me I need to finish up some training.
• Howard's niece won first place in horse jumping at the county fair.  That is impressive.  You have to have some serious leg strength to jump over horses.  Oh wait, I have been informed that you ride the horse and the horse jumps.  That is even more awesome.
• Melissa reports that her first son will be 12 this week.  He is growing to be a fine young man at 5'6" and size 11 shoes.  According to her she may only have another year till he will be looking down at her.  I remember the day my father figured out that I was taller than he was.  Though it happened when he was yelling at me for getting in trouble (again), we both ended up laughing hysterically about it in seconds.
• Pam is picking up Mathew from the Alabama grandparents this week.  It always sounds good on paper, a week or two without the offspring but you end up missing the littlins.
• Donna got to see Breakfast Club on the big screen and she had a good 8 mile run.  To top it off the husband was duped into helping to clean the bedroom.  Way to go Donna on all of it.  Breakfast club must have been awesome.
• Mandy finished 42 miles and her husband finished 33.6 in the BOMF 20 in 24 ultra race.  That is amazing.  I am sorry I missed you guys.  Either way, great job and a great cause.
• Cindy and her 4-H kids had a fantastic fair week and captured the grand champion dairy steer title.  Great job guys.  
• Jen reports that she mowed the lawn and didn't run over anything.  I love the smell of freshly cut grass in the morning.
• Maggie said that she can lose at words with friends and still be proud of the winner.  Thanks mom.  Soon we will have a rematch.  

Well, I started this entry early with the best of intentions of finishing it early but my body had other plans.  Mostly those plans included napping.  In any case, I did get to it and what a plethora of good news you guys had.  I hope for a just a minute, you forget the insanity going on in the world and you take the time to enjoy your tiny and sometimes huge amazing victories out there.  Till next time.

Out from the Ashes of Piles of Drama Comes Good News From Last Week

Like the phoenix rising from the ashes or more like my shift key coming unstuck after the beginning of a sentence, here comes a belated set of good news from last week.  I got to say the past week has been kind of crappy to say the least.  Our thoughts and prayers go out to all those out there and their families.  Lets hope that the drama builders cease being insane and get their heads out of their asses.  Perhaps, we should share with them some of our good news to realized that there are good things going on in the universe. Now after many a long naps comes...

Good News for the week of 12 July 14

• Donna has come back to say that she survived a "Sh*t storm," at work and is still kicking it on the job front.  Also, it looks like September training is going well.  I can't wait to see you out there Rock'n and a Roll'n in the fall.
• Melissa found out that she was going to have 3 kid free days.  I think that means all 3 kids will be gone for 3 days.  Altogether that makes 9 days.  So sometime next week she can tell us how it was.  I actually had a Psycho free week and at first it was okay and silent but I ended up missing the lunatic fairly quickly.
• Maggie got home.  I know the trip she was on and Lewis and Clark would be impressed.  Either way, they made it home safe and that is the important thing.
• Pam and Bo renewed their wedding vows to celebrate their 10th anniversary.  They celebrated more with friends and family in Montgomery and they will be without kid as Mathew will be spending another couple of weeks with the grandparents.
• Donna got a mysterious Pi donation on her fundraising page. 
• Danielle came back from an unplugg for quite a bit to get back in touch with nature at Tunnel Trail Campground.  She slept in an actual tent and bike the Elroy Sparta trail and iced the cake with buying baked goods from genuine Amish people.  It seemed like a good time. 

Well, guys thanks for the good news.  It makes me happy to see it coming up even with all the insanity.  Thanks again and I am sorry for it being so late.  Please keep up the good news and tell your friends.  

Holy Molely News for the week of 5 July 14

Hey guys it has been another on of those weeks where it seems like the world is going crazy and the media is just eating it up.  But you guys have stepped up to show that there are good and great things that are happening that actually make our personal lives much better than what our news outlets are trying to make it out to be.  I would like to let you know that there is one or maybe two pieces of amazingly great news that have happened in the last week so I am giving them a place of honor at the front of the list.  So here it goes.

Good News for the Week of 5 July 14

• Melissa has reported that after 3 years her Aunt has won her battle with breast cancer.  This hits close to my heart, actually my blood and lungs, given my own situation. No matter what I wish nothing but good health for Melissa's Aunt and the rest of the family.
• Sports Illustrated broke the news the Lebron is returning to Cleveland.  While I was living there I got the chance to see him play at The Q and he was really the reason I became a Cavs fan. Okay that is not really from last week but it is still awesome.

•  Donna reports that she has all of her snail mail letters gear ready for fund raising for the LLS.  That is great and I hope she gets is all finished that is great.  Go Team!  If you would like to help the cause go to Donna's TnT site and give a bit.  It is tax deductible and every dollar counts so if you can give a dollar please do so.
• Danielle has found that she has forgotten how to parallel park.  This may seem bad but it is good for two reasons.  1. This means she has been riding her bike a lot. b. She actually knew how to parallel park in the first place.  So many never attained that skill.
• Hellen has been putting the finish touches on the preparations for Conclave in just a few weeks.  She is hoping for excellent discourse and logical, cool heads. Sorry to say ther will be times where logic will be thrown out the door and I can garente that maintaining a week of cool heads is going to be an impossibility.  But I will try.
• Abbey was enjoying a wonderful extra long holiday weekend with the family, in-laws, and she set a 5k PR.
• Pam was on her way to Biloxi, MS to renew her wedding vows celebrating 10 years of wedding bliss.  To top it off  Mathew will be dropped off at the grandparents for a 3 week vacation which has to be good news for him.
• Donna reports a nice independence day with her brother and sister in-law despite all the wind.  She, also, had a REALLY awesome day trip to the beach with all of the kids and saw a "most beautiful sunset last week on the way back home on the El.  
• Melissa reports that there is her friends have earned their life long dream of acquiring 10 acres of woodland mountains property. To top it off she got to spend a week with them enjoying land.  The trail runner in me would start establishing running trails throughout the place.  I guess there could be other uses for the land as well.
• Maggie is home at last after a very long road trip.  I was glad part of that trip was to visit me.

Okay, the Lebron news was not from last week but it was just so overwhelmingly awesome that it had to be mentions.  But still a great set of good news.  I got to keep this short but I will encourage you to consider donating to the LLS through Donna's page listed above or to someone else you know that may be part of Tnt.  Another suggestion is to consider blood and stem cell donation.  There is a serious blood shortage, especially O negative, and it is stem cells that are being used to cure diseases like blood cancers and things like sickle cell anemia and aids are in the research phases.  So thanks and keep it up.

28 July 2014 Week is Full of Good News

So I hope you all are enjoying the independence day holiday.  For those of you in the Carolinas and south east Virginia please be safe and in a couple of days you will get a chance at a belated holiday celebration.  And you guys in New England watch out it's a coming.  In any case, I should get on with the reminder of all the good news that has happened just a in the previous week.

Good news for the week of 28 July 2014

• So my Psycho turned 12 last week and the very next day my Space and I celebrated our 15th anniversary.   We got a chance to get away for the night and just spend some time with each other.  On top of that we went to the Melting Pot.  That was amazing and very filling.
• Calvin is celebrating the end of summer school and evidently he will never teach 2 summer school classes again.
• Susan got to see how the new CZE instrument works and it is very different that the old ones.  Upgrades are great and Susan reports "Of course it will take over year for all IQ, PQ, validation, comparison studies before can run it for real."  I am not sure I can translate that but it sounds cool.
• Donna has announced the birth of her co-workers baby boy. Also, she is starting to getting herself together.  It is a long journey but she is confident that everything will work out okay.  In addition her second job for a little extra cash is going well.  And for more Sean gets is birthday present today an electric guitar and an amp.  Lets hot it goes up to 11.  Rock on Sean.  Donna I got have some ear plugs if want some.
• Carolyn finished her first triathlon with Team in Training.  Go Team and go Carolyn.  
• Cindy's sister is getting married this Saturday which means her son was due back in town from Florida yesterday.  All that and a three day work week.  What a great confluence of events.  
• Lutz found out that the NSF is funding the STEM education ATE grant that was submitted last October.   That is awesome.  I hope it is successful project.  
• Christina is going to be empty nesters for a week.  I went through that when the Psycho went to resident camp.  It was cool but weird without the her around.  It was also quiet.
• Danielle met up with a friend for a bike ride, finally after three years of saying they should.  Then spent the afternoon at the beach.  At last she did what she promised she wanted to do for the summer break.
• Melissa broke out the bike and shook off 6 years of rust.  Now the clan can ride together.
• Susan came back to let us know that there is only a 3 day work week.  I wish I worked so I could celebrate that.
• Helen had a wonderful weekend with family and friends.  So did I but more on that later.

Well, it seems like you guys have a lot to celebrate.  These are the good things that we need to keep in our thoughts while the rest of the world is going insane.  I remember when I was in a job where I dealt with alot of customer service. And if I didn't know better the company only made crappy products because I was always fixing them.  But at times I was reminded that hundreds of products go out the door that our customers like and continue to buy.  So remember no matter how much crappy news you hear that is generally shoved into you brain there is always something good going on.  Cherish those tiny victories and forget some of the drama.

Good News Weekly 21 June 2014

It is another week and another random day in which I regurgitate the good news that has been shared with me.  I am so happy to have had the energy to put this together today rather than rush it later.  I have been become really into early evening naps.  It turns out that the Spanish may have something worth looking into with a mid-day siesta.  If only we could do that here.  I guess first thing is first with getting better maternity leave like the rest of the industrialized world.  Wait, that is inner monologue stuff and not the drama free tiny victories this post is dedicated to.  I will try to revisit that subject in another post but lets get on with the Good News.

Good News for the Week of 21 June 2014

• Christina is spending quality time with her two favorite guys (aka Y chromosome carriers).  They are heading to the Walla Walla Sweet Onion Festival.  In addition Brian is working diligently on spirit wear for his new gig as WSU Tri-cities Mens Soccer coach and athletic director.  To top it off she has bought a new kayak as a graduation present for herself.  Holy Moley that is a boat load of amazing victories.  I hope the festival was fun and aromatic.
• Melissa had an unexpected financial windfall when a check arrived.  I love it when money mysteriously appears as well.  Mostly, though, my disappears and there is no mystery as to why it is gone.
• Helen reports that Caitlin had her first swim meet of the season.  Totally awesome.  From one swim family to another kick water.  Also, Helen's brother surprised her with a visit while on business from Romania.  I cherish chances to spend time with family as well.
• Jeff had a great time at the end of baseball season Team cookout.  It was a picnic at the park on a peaceful afternoon. 
• Stephanie ran for 30 minutes without stopping.  I will be out there with you soon even if it is for just a walk to start.
• Jen informed us of the end of the dance season with the last dance competition last week.  Liisi and her teammates danced beautifully.Sometimes I wish I could dance.  I can stomp out a mediocre merengue but that is about it.
• Niny has put us on notice that it is almost blueberry season.  I know Space has found a farm or two where we can go picking and i love blueberries.
• Donna has been enjoying the newly wonderful weather as of late and it has led to her getting further trained for her September race.  I will be there cheering you on and perhaps I may bet off my butt and go running with you during your training.  Also, it turns out that her son has just turned twelve.  That is almost teenage; which means he is almost at the pinnacle of knowledge and knowing everything.
• Danielle got a great deal on bins at Costco and is eagerly anticipating organizing the kitchen.

In conclusion, you guys rock.  It is proof positive that we can overshadow the drama and bad news out there with the good things that are happening.  I don't want to diminish the fact that not everything is happy go lucky.  But again it is the tiny victories that keep us going.  Thanks for all of good news and keep it up.

Last Weeks Good News Today

 
It is well past that time again.  It is time I share all of the good news that I have gotten from last week.  We always like to remember those victories that we have had Though I am sure there have been hardships along the way we have to remember that there are good times that may make the darkness seem a little bit brighter.  Way back in the day as I was growing up I was taught that it takes 7 "ataboys" to make up for one "ah shit."  In most senses I think this can be true.  You screw up once and it can erase more than it's share of good work done before.  But in the case of good news and everyday victories with the least amount of drama that trend can be reversed.  We need to continue to bring on more and more "ataboys."
I know this is a little late (again) but as a bonus  I have a few extra bits of good news that came from the week prior that were a little tardy that I will tack on as well.  I hope you enjoy and keep feeding me the good news.

Bonus Good News from the week of 7 June 14

• Josie came back with Dolce and Dave having passed their Therapy Dog testing.  She is now a certified therapy dog and will be giving back to the community.  If you counted eating anything that hit the ground, sitting on you lap and snuggling at every opportunity as therapy than my old Basset "Booger" would have been a master therapy dog. Either way, congrats to Dolce and Dave.
• Helen reports that her husband as well as Kip headed up to Toronto to play in the championship game for the hockey team (part of Hockey North America).  Go Washington Rebels Hockey Club.
• Maggie had a great time on her first visit to New Orleans and got to go on a Ghost Tour.  It is off to Texas for a week then more traveling perhaps up north. 

Good News for the Week of 14 June 14

• After a bunch of looking and missing out on some okay deals Space and I found an amazing replacement for our beat up old '02 Escape.  She was truly "Found On Road Dead"  Space will be enjoying (and taking great care of) our 2010 Kia Soul.  It is cool on the out side but totally funky on the inside.  Another great Duff mobile.  Still working on a name though.
• 
• Erin reports that she has worked out the problem with Dom's meds.  I know how confusing those things can be.  What order, best time of day, with or without food and just interactions like one that is an upper and another trying to put you to sleep can just add to the chaos and make thinks worse.  Either way congrats.  
• Melissa's mother turned 60 years young.  Congrats and remember that it is not the years in your life that count but the life in your years that make all the difference.
• Danielle and Mark helped friends finish the Nursery for the twins coming next month.  What an exciting time.  Also, Paul Konerko hit a solo home run in the ninth.
• Erin had a yummy seafood dinner with her dad for his birthday and fathers day.  
• Though Mandy did not PR she did beat last years time and she had a blast.  The hubby and step kids were there at the finish as Athletic Supporters and the middle step kid has added the race to the list of must dos and is just waiting to ensure the minimum age requirement.  It looks like another generation of slugs is already starting out.
• If you didn't already know Christina wants to remind us that the World Cup has started.  We are all excited and I have already watched some amazing matches.  What a great sport.  
• Jeff go back from a round trip from Petersburg, NJ to pick up his brother for a family visit for the day before he heads back to the Left Coast.  
• Christina came back with a new that her Jonathan rock the house with his beat boxing at the talent show at school.  

That was amazing guys.  Once again I don't think these are really tiny victories but humongous wins.  We are hitting it out of the park with all the great stuff that is happening everyday.  I am glad you are willing to share and let me share it again.  I still haven't worked out the timing on getting these things redistributed and some of that is dependant on how my body wants to cooperate with my brain.  In any case thanks again for everything and no matter what other stuff happens there is always something good going on too.  Till next time, turn that frown upside down.