Saturday, April 19, 2008

Tires, Costco and L'eggs

I should be reading for my class, but my eyes and brain have grown tired of reading about supervision...so instead, I'll discuss a few events.
Last night, Nate and I decided to visit the YMCA; on our way out to my car, I noticed one of my tires was nigh unto flatness. Nate followed me over to Discount Tire so my car could have a sleepover. We discussed where my car would be most safe. We first considered the front, but I didn't want Carol to be too visible. We then discussed parking it in the back, then I noticed that the dilapidated, vacant Pizza Hut appears to be a favorite spot for graffiti. I'm not expecting everyone to be tempted by a 1998 champagne colored Carolla beyond their control, yet I still wanted a car free from a tag reading "PLAYAZ" or an equally brainless phrase one can see painted on many a freeway overpass. We went for the front of the building and won. I planned on getting a flat fixed, but instead bought two new tires. Ted earns salary and his girlfriend is taking the bar this July, so I was willing to trust him.
Costco is a great store, but it takes so much of our money. Once inside, I'm convinced we could use a plasma screen tv or that I need a purse so nice it is stored in a glass box. Luckily we don't end up buying ridiculous items, but I was really tempted by a 700.00 home gym and the squishy recliner/rocker. There would be no place to store these items, but I'm positive they would make our life better.
My favorite events at Costco are centered on interacting with the older crowd. We've now had three instances, so I feel safe in saying "it happens all the time". A month or so ago, there was a complication at the pharmacy (I forgot I actually had an insurance card to give them!) so we had to wait for a manager to void a transaction. An impatient octogenarian behind us kept eyeing our food as if that was partially to blame for us holding up the line. She fidgeted until she couldn't hold it in any longer: she walked right past us to the other, absent register. When told it wasn't her turn, she acted surprised and sputtered "what is the problem?" (there had been loud discussion of what the problem was) As an aside, the entire time Nate was attempting to take pictures of my face with his camera phone. He explained that there wasn't anything else to do (except embarrass Liz). Today we were in the line placing our items on the moving conveyer belt. The woman ahead of us was getting suspicious...what were we doing? She remained quiet until Nate threw on the case of toilet paper with gusto. "I'M NEXT" she informed him. Nate is not nearly as excitable as I am, so he just looked back at her with no response. In case the checker hadn't heard her, the nervous customer reiterated her previous point. I wanted to push something-either the toilet paper or her, but I took the higher road. It should be noted that these reactions are certainly not specific to older adults; I've seen it happen other times, yet I lack the details.
ps-the "city diner" down the street from us has posted the following on their marquee: "Eggs and Leggs" (some of the "g's" were actually 9's) I wonder--do they now offer pantyhose as a side dish or are their waitresses enjoying a not so modest uniform?

Saturday, April 12, 2008

Delilah: Embarrass someone tonight

After class last Tuesday, I ran out to my car (yes, it's that exciting to be released) and got settled for my drive home. I've recently finished listening to General Conference, so now I just listen to whatever. As I drove out of the parking lot, I quickly turned my stereo to "tuner"...I was disappointed, all I heard was static. I should figure that 70 or so miles from home might just have different radio feeds? So why was I disappointed? I didn't realize it until it happened, but I was hoping I could listen to Delilah on my way home. This is a horrible admission, but it must be done. I remember several years ago, my sister encouraging me to listen to Delilah, mentioning that she "played good music". Well fine Ruth, she does.
For those of you not familiar with the set up of the show, I will explain. Delilah excels at finding "just the right song" for anyone who calls in and shares their love situation/problem with said radio personality. Listening as dedications were made to: Jeremy (being an 18 year old girl's savior..."we've been through SO much"; song picked: Blessed Union of Souls "I Believe"), Annie (in a long distance relationship with caller for 6 years, recently broke up-"the most amazing woman alive" song picked:had to go to my visiting teaching appointment before I heard the song) and Craig (ex-husband to caller, divorced because they both cheated on each other, yet she is convinced they are soul mates; song picked: Mariah Carey "Forever"), I felt happy about my life and that I am too embarrassed to call a woman I don't know and spill my love secrets. Another night as I listened, Delilah threw out a theme for her callers "Do you have anyone in your life that has betrayed you, been deceitful, and hurt you deeply? Call me and we'll get through it" Okay, I'm glad she is willing to help, but does anyone really need to be encouraged to discuss their (mostly) strange relationship dynamic? Answer? YES.
Next week will be my last week of class (that I will be driving to Michigan for) until about July, so I'm currently trying to figure out how to keep Delilah alive...I mean, what if I miss Nate's dedication??