Saturday, June 28, 2003

Dear Family, It's really neat being able to receive these little tid-bits from all of your busy lives,I really appreciate my brother setting this up for Gram and I. I feel like I belong again.
It's a beautiful day here. I just came in from digging in the dirt and I feel like I've just had a great work-out! Only alot more enjoyable! Although I have to say I think I'd like to be your client just fine Melissa. I can hear your voice right now urging me on! You'll be extremely busy once the word gets out I'm sure. Alan came over last night and helped me get started with figureing this all out...this is a whole new world for this 'ol girl! Fortunately I've always liked to type! And I already found some guy in Maryland that belongs to A.A. that has been sending me stuff.
My life is 100% different than it was at this time last year. My mother,Bishop,Stake President,& A.A. sponsor have all been of immence support and encouragement. And with them, and a little willingness from me I'll be celebrating 1 yr. of sobriety in just a few days. Spiritually I feel as though I've traveled a much greater distance in time than just 1 year. Amazed at my Heavenly Fathers love for me doesn't even come close to describing how I have felt this past year. Being worthy to wear my garments again and partake of the Sacrament is a gift. Having the missionaires teach my sweet Kelly the discussions was a special time for us both. Everyone else is fine and I'm sure will be over to update you all themselves.
My mother is recovering slowly but well. That whole thing was a much bigger deal than I had anticipated, of course thats par- for- the- course for me....avoid reality at all cost! In my own defence I will say that our Home Teacher gave her such a great blessing,Iwent to the hospital fearless!
Her being so terribly sick and having all thoes complications,{none of which we'd anticipated or discussed}was very unsetteling. Mom and I both thought of you and your mother Cristie during that ordeal. I know we have a deeper understanding of and for your feelings. As of today though shes recooperating nicely. Carp will be nice for her and she is so glad that Valerie and Ed have decided to make the trip. It will be nice seeing all your faces again.
My love to you all, Mary.
Hey, Im on! Just trying to figure out the set up's. Take care. I will be back later|

Friday, June 27, 2003

Melissa, thanks for a good chuckle. I could relate to the ow, ow, ow, stuff...even though I hate to admit it has been way too long. You are inspiring!
What have I gotten myself into? My new personal training job has been a very intimidating step for me. I certainly don’t look like the typical trainer. This was most profoundly confirmed to me when I attended a training meeting (Monday) for the new trainers at Bally’s.

First, I wasn’t prepared. I wore comfortable clothing because I was told that I was going to walk through the equipment and make sure we knew how to use it correctly. Little did I know, that they were going to observe our training abilities and then take us through a circuit training session. I learned very quickly, that when trainers train other trainers, the goal is to make them want to puke their guts out from working out so hard. I have never, ever been so sore in my life! Our house reeks of Ben gay these days. And today was the first day I could go up or down the stairs without wincing and saying “ow, ow, ow, ow, owwww!”. And sitting on the toilet? If I could have held it for four days I would have.

My greatest fear going into this was that I’d be laughed at for even wanting to do it since I’m still fairly out of shape, and completely inexperienced. So when I walked into the room with all of the others (and took one look at their tan, 0% fat, muscular bodies), I thought about just walking out the door.

I have been amazed at the support that these people have given me. The training managers really seem to view me as competent enough to learn, and they are very willing to teach me and let me go for it. I hear things like, “just go for it, you can’t fail”. “You’re going to be great” etc. Trainers seem to be good motivators in every aspect.
This is a great opportunity for me to develop some confidence. I can’t wait to actually start getting some clients to work with. I think it will be so much fun to get to know people and help them reach their fitness goals.

That's enough rambling for now, have a great day everyone!

Thursday, June 26, 2003

Dear Family: I just heard from Doug in Jackson Hole. He was wondering if Ali and he should make the trip to Yellowstone tomorrow. I told him it was a definite must. To be 60 miles away and miss such a spectacular creation would be regretable. Anyway, he was concerned that Ali might get car-sick so we'll have to wait and see what they were up to. They will be back on Sunday and the trip should be rejuvinating for the both of them.
Mark August 16th on your calendars for a family photo at 11 in the morning. I asked that Dave be the photographer hoping that we will be pleased with the results. It's a Saturday morning, and we should all be sporting a healthy glow after having been to the beach.
I am so delighted to hear the Ed and Valerie can get away and come to Carp. Just so you know, Magic Mountain is a definite...no maybe about it:)
The boys are off on Trek and I can't help but think about them and what they may be doing. I am hoping that they are going to be helpful and positive. I can hardly stand it when teenagers act like pampered babies!
I love this time of day! The shadows are getting long and the whole world that I can see has a rosy glow. What a blessing to be able to see. I love you all. mom
My quick trip to Los Angeles was nice. Got some work done, enjoyed the sunny, mild weather (June Gloom was gone), and really enjoyed being with my family. I got my Mother and Mary's computer installed and running. Now we'll see what they do with it. I understand some of you have already started receiving e-mail, which is a positive sign. My mothers address is "LoieatDelMar@aol.com." Mary's is "Crittersaver03@aol.com." I'm sure they'd both love to hear from you.

My mother looks good and says she is feeling better every day. I'm so happy the surgery went well. I hope her energy will be at a reasonable level by the time we get to Carp.

My Dad is about the same. When I got to the nursing home, he was in a room with about 50 other old folks listening to a guy play the piano and sing. Before I walked in, I stood and watched him for awhile. I thought that to the workers there, and anyone else who might be passing by, he looks like just one of the other old men, but I was looking at my father. He didn't seem to be enjoying the music. Just looking down, and occasionally rocking in his wheelchair.

Val, I'm thrilled that you and Ed will be joining us at Carp. I'll make sure and bring the horshoe set. And yes, a Dodger game and maybe Magic Mountain are on the agenda!