Recovering Flu Victim

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year Y'all!

A lil late and a lil early I know.  Unfortunately, I started getting sick a few days before Christmas.  Went to bed at 5:30 on Christmas Eve, where I stayed until leaving town at noon on December 26th.  And I'm still battling that flu bug today.  However, seeing the Gulf and sand is somehow helping to cure me.  Could it be the salt air?  Sorry, I digressed....let me catch you up.

We ran ourselves ragged with all the shopping, wrapping, parties, etc.  Natalie giving lessons and her PT.  Which is going well.  She is swimming laps and walking a very fast pace on the Tmill.  Up to 2 miles, a great thing.  Still has a way to go, but great progress for sure.

We had our Christmas on the Eve.  Our firefighter Nic, had station duty on Christmas Day.  We enjoyed our traditional turkey and dressing dinner.  Followed by our present exchange.  My quick exit to the bed and the kids were off and running in a thousand different directions.  From what I've been told, they all had a great Christmas Day....as for me....I slept right through it.

On the 26th, we head to Biloxi to celebrated Jaynie's  (Nic's gal) 21st birthday.  Per her request and arm twisting we headed south.  Happy to say everyone is in the "black".  Unfortunately, we got a call at 4 a.m. yesterday that our Nana had fallen and was on the way to the hospital.  She has a giant knot on her head, bumps and bruises....and thank GOD.....no broken bones.  One very lucky lady, although today's headache is prolly screaming something else to her.  Happy to say that Nic and his dad took very good care of her and some of his pals gave her the "lights on" ride to the hospital.  Please pray for our Nana, thank you!

And NO.....I haven't forgotten....but we haven't heard anything from the New York office yet.   LOL!  Hopefully, we will in the next week or two.  I guess no news is good new....for it is not a "no" yet!  Happy to say Natalie has very irons in the ole fire, so many exciting things ahead.  Can't wait to update on those.  But for now, there is a buffet out there somewhere calling this recovering flu victim's name.....sooooo until next time.....Love and Blessings.....Sherry!

Good Report

Good Morning!  Seven more days my friends....and no....my Christmas card have not gone out.  I swear each day is getting shorter.  That or my list of things to do keeps growing.  Been nice to be home and get some of those lurking lil projects completed.  Let alone the deep cleaning projects.

Well the good news is.....Natalie had a good report at Tab's....PT.  She has made great strides in the last two weeks.  Our gal has been working hard at it and it hasn't been easy.  Yesterday, she graduated to walking a mile at quick pace on the thread mill.  A major mile stone.  Today, she and I headed to the YMCA by 8 a.m.  Where she swam for 40 minutes, walked a mile and lifted.  Nat said her foot was a lil stiff at first but the swim loosened it quick.  Stiff with no pain is a very good thing.  Tab is hoping she will progress into a slow run in the next few weeks.  Music to our gal's ears!  You see Nat was very discouraged by the PT report two weeks ago.  And that report took a mental toll, as expected.  But yesterdays' good news, trumped it all.  And the merry go round continues......

Natalie has been teaching lessons in Atlanta.  Typically she leaves on Wednesday evening and stays at Diana's home till Friday.  Teaching on Thursday and Friday before heading home.  We appreciate Diana's family opening their home to Nat, which saves her gas money, time and the headaches of traffic.

Hope you are getting your preparations for the holidays complete.  We are looking forward to the fellowship and of course the good food.  Merry Christmas All......Love and Blessings....Sherry!

WonderWoman?

Good Morning!  Well, it may have been a lil after midnight but our gal finally made it home.  Currently, still in deep slumber mode, but home.  A lil over an hour after arriving in New York yesterday morning, Natalie received an email.  From the airline, that her return flight had been cancelled.  While she was attending her meeting, the staff was scurrying around trying to make new arrangements.

Ahhh the meeting....well can't give any details yet.....but it went REALLY well.  Should know more after the first of the year.  At which time, so will you.  But for now I think I will share the clothing plan for Natalie's meeting day.  As many of you know, our gal is a freezy cat, doesn't like the cold for sure.  Soooooo going to New York in the winter poses problems for her and her lack of body insulation .....you know .....body fat.  And let's not forget, the recovering foot and what kind of shoes she can currently wear.  So, here was the plan:

Natalie would wear her leggings, tennis shoes, meeting blouse, scarf, top coat.  In her backpack, she carried her suit coat, suit pants and dress shoes.  Upon arrival in New York, she would do the superman or in this case superwoman change of attire thing.  Slip on the dress pants, suit coat and dress shoes prior to hopping into a cab to the meeting.

With the clothing mission accomplished, Nat arrived for her meeting.  Which was a success.  Went out to lunch and then returned to hear her new travel plans.  Due to the weather issues across the east, the new plans were a challenge.  A driver picked up our gal and drove her to New Jersey.  Where she caught a flight to Chicago.  Once in Chi town, she waited and watched as flights were continuing to be cancelled.  However, hers was not and she headed south and arrived at 11:15 p.m.  She was happy to be home and to have had the clothing choices for comfiness for the way home.  Mission Accomplished!

Today, we will head to the YMCA for the therapy pool and PT.  I'm sure that will be after a few more hours of slumber for a certain someone.  Well, deserved slumber!  Until then, time to get our Nana moving with her PT.  Love and Blessings.....Sherry!

Remember to Help Others

Good Day Folks!  Hope you and yours are doing well.  We are doing better but crazy busy.  Natalie and her bro Ed have finally gotten over the chest cold bug.  Thank goodness, for it is really hard to keep them and their bugs away from our Nana, so far so good though...knock on wood.

Natalie's been a lil discouraged with her rehab progress lately.  Hard for an athlete whose mind says "let's go" but the body says "hell no".  She did progress to running in the therapy pool and kick board.  Of course, great to progress to new tasks....but she just can't see it yet.  All she can see, I'm not on the court yet.  

Today, will be a great distraction.  As promised, I will spill the beans.  Just dropped Natalie at the airport, from which she will fly to New York for the day.  Yes....I said for the day.  Our hot shot has an important meeting today, which of course will have a major impact on her 2015 and future.  More on this as it develops.  Fingers crossed and prayers please!

After a great weekend of football and an Ugly Sweater Poker Party, kinda of hard to think about being overly productive today.  Will attend lil Ed's first football banquet as an assistant coach and then pick Nat up from the airport.  Tomorrow, will pick up the new puppy we will foster and Nic from the airport.  Then Thursday, we will travel to Ft. Benning to witness Robby's graduate from the training he is completing, something we will cherish.  

I guess today may be slow, but the week will be very productive.  As we all ready for the holidays, let's try to remember to help others.....I mean really help....hands on.  Not just write a check and mail it....although that should happen too.  I hope you find time to call or visit a local school and ask the principal if there is a student or family that needs help.  Trust me, not only will the experience be very rewarding....but 100% of what you spend is going directly to who needs the help.  And the principals know who needs help and makes sure they are double dipping for help.  What is double dipping???  That is a family that is getting help from more then one organization.

Time to be semi productive....Love and Blessings....Sherry!

....And Then the Romance is Gone....

Morning!  It's December 1st and the real count down begins....24 more days till Christmas.  Now the twinkle lights can be turned on and the store decorations can go up.  Wait, What.....oooo yea all that started in October, and September in some places.  Anyway, as far as I'm concerned it shouldn't be until Thanksgiving weekend, specifically on Black Friday.

Speaking of Black Friday....for the first time in several years the women in our house stayed home.  However, some of our men went out on turkey day for the sales.  Yes, my friends it is 2014, the men stood in line for hours for the quest of gifts.  Now didn't that sound romantic....well maybe for a moment.  A moment that is, until you hear who they were buying gifts for, and then the romance is gone.....yet again.

Lil Ed, on a quest for an IPad.....yup you guessed it....for himself.  Nic and Robby stood in line for moral support, but some how both came home with an IPad too.  Then there was a phone call from Ed,  "mom, I can get a 50" TV for $200, should I get it?"   HAHAAHAHHAH

Yup, romance......up in smoke!  Let's face it, men would only stand in line for 4 hours, in the cold, on Thanksgiving.....for themselves!  And of course to buy electronics.  Now, I believe that to be true for the majority of men, however I have to give props to those FEW men out there that know how to make their ladies happy.  The ones that would stand in those lines with their lady or for their lady.  For they truly know the meaning of .....happy lady.....happy life!   LOL!

On Black Friday, I shopped for bout twenty minutes at Michaels.  Great coupons of course.  But then, Natalie, lil Ed and I headed to Columbia, South Carolina.  And no, we were not going to the doctor.  We were going to watch my "adopted" son Carson and his high school football team.  Carson is an assistant coach, and his team was playing for the SC AA State Title.  Yes, we froze....but it was well worth it for the Wolves were amazing and won the title.  Below is a picture of Carson, Natalie, Nic, Kendall (Carson's sister), dad Eric and mom Kim.

Natalie update....yea....I know....about time!  She and 6-8 of her new closest BFFs, continue to workout in the therapy pool at our YMCA.  Happy to say that her toe is moving, and she is walking pretty close to normal.  But she still has PT to go.  Her progress has been good, slow, but good.  She is looking forward to a day trip to New York next week....hint...hint.  More bout that in the near future!  Until then....Love and Blessings....Sherry!

His Sweet Words Rang Volumes

Hello Folks!  As I reflect on the last week or so, I am over come with emotions.  Wondering, will this be our Nana's last Thanksgiving with us.  Just how many years has it been since we buried my sister the day after turkey day?  Will my friend that lost her 36 year brother last Sunday, be able to handle the emotions....for she struggles with mental issues??

OOOO the holidays.....a mixed bag of emotions for so many.  But, we must look around and see all the reasons to continue to live and celebrate life.  Our children, families, friends.  Our wonderful communities, a warm home, a hot meal, a smile from a stranger all a small sample of those reasons.

As we sat at our Thanksgiving table.  Our Nana started us with her special Blessing for the meal.  After which, Robby ....who is stationed at Fort Benning....began to eat.  And eat.....and eat.  Man my cooking must be awesome.....sorry I digressed.  His sweet words rang volumes in my ears, "I haven't had a homemade turkey dinner in three years, I made one for me and my men two years ago, but it was nothing like this".   Although most of those at the table heard his words, I'm not sure they REALLY heard what he was saying.  But for me.....it was a huge dose of reality.  How can any of us feel sorry for past, current or future situations in our lives......when so many young soldiers like Robby sacrifice everything on a daily basis so that we may have all those reasons to continue to live and celebrate life?

Thankful indeed, that Robby has come into our lives and serves our country so that we may live free in the best country in the world.  We are truly Blessed!  Love and Blessings....Sherry!

Special Message

Happy Thanksgiving!

Love and Blessings

From The Pluskotas

I Give Thanks

Today, the day prior to turkey day.....I give thanks!  I give thanks for Beth, Natalie's first tennis coach at age 5.  Not only was Beth a great tennis player and coach, but she was an awesome mentor for Natalie and so many.  Beth was an amazing mother, wife and daughter prior to entering the Gates of Heaven a few years ago.  We miss her every day!  We are very Thankful this Thanksgiving Season that she was in our lives, for our lives are better because of it.

This is a snapshot of a page from a scrapbook a dear friend made for me in 1996.  It is very interesting to me that the theme of the book was angels and there is an angel sticker above Beth's head.  Some how a comforting find today.  Love and Blessings.....Sherry!

Video

Howdy from a HOT Georgia!  Yes, I said HOT....as in 80 degrees.  A beautifully sunny day, that has our Nana enjoying the outdoors on the front porch.  When I ask her if she's doing ok, she says "ooooo yea, I'm fine".  She may not come back in until the sun goes down.

Well, it took several days but I think I figured out the issue with my video production.  So, as promised here is the video recapping Alumni Weekend:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EG0-FZ3dvPk

Alumni Weekend!

Good Day from sunny south, although cold!  Last Friday, Natalie finished coaching and she and I headed to Knoxville.  It was alumni weekend for the both the men's and women's tennis teams.  Was to be Nat's first since graduating in 2012.  She was really looking forward to being part of such a special occasion.

Upon arriving, made a quick stop on campus to pick up Lady Vol basketball tickets from our friend Jessica.  Thanks Jess!  Then we checked into our hotel.  After a very fast 20 change....Natalie went from a hot mess to a hot momma.  I think the front desk people thought it was someone other then who I checked in with.  Sorry, I digressed.  Anyway, we headed back to campus where Nat dropped me at the game and she head to the first alumni event.  A meet and greet at a local place.  She had a blast and so did I!

We both climbed into bed by 10.  I passed out, she dozed waiting for Ed (her bro) and Robby (her bo) to arrive.  After they did, we all had some giggles and passed out.  Up and out early on Saturday, we dropped Natalie on campus.  She and the other All American Legends were to meet with the current Lady Vols team to give them some inspiration.

The boys and I head to McKays.  For I brought some of my dad's record collection to sell.  Of course having the extra muscles around to help was greatly appreciated.  After McKays we headed back to campus to give Robby the tour of the tennis center and to catch him up on Natalie's career there.  I think he enjoyed himself and seeing the place.  As well as watching our gal on the court.  She couldn't play, but she was able to feed tennis balls to those that could.  All the ladies seem to really be enjoying there time on the court.  And it is really important for the current team to be mentored by such decorated alumni.

Although we had planned to kinda "drill" and run em through the mill.....Robby got off easy.  Unfortunately, someone kinda tipped him off so it took the fun right out of it.  But don't worry, we will get to that.  hahahahahah  But for real, we enjoyed Robby being with us and getting to know him a lil better.

A quick lunch and walk across campus...in the frigid weather and we were at the alumni tailgate tent.  We watched the Vol Walk and the Band, while enjoying some treats and drinks.  After which we headed to the game.  You know, to show Robby how we do it in the SEC.   Even tho the game was great, we were freezing.  We had a blast cheering on the Big Orange team.

Here is a video of some of the sites and sounds of our trip....sorry but the lighting in the tennis center is not good for taking pictures.  I did the best I could!  Please enjoy!

Well, having issues with the video....once I get it figured out I will post it...sorry ;(

Love and Blessings.....Sherry

Goobers

Got to spend UT Tennis Alumni weekend with these goobers and a few more.  They are, Natalie, her bearded brother Ed, her now official boyfriend Robby and current UT player Ashlee.  More stories and pictures to come!

38% In One Week

Burrrrrrr Baby it's Cold Outside!  Hope everyone is staying bundled and warm.  Father Winter is letting his presence be known.

The very good news, physical therapy is going really well.  Natalie's toe has gone from not moving an inch to moving.  Her range of motion went from zero to 38% in one week.  Yes, she is determined!  The PT wiz...Tab....is very happy to say the least.  She has been going to the pool everyday and walking.  Which I guess is causing a stir with some folks, much to Nat's dismay.  Now mind you, she is walking in the THERAPY pool.  And on two different occasions an older gent has said, "hey, that's not swimming that's walking".  Genius' eh??  Needless to say, she wasn't a happy camper with their comments.

Anyway... back to the good news, she is walking, she is wearing a normal shoe, the boot is around ...somewhere, her attitude has improved.  She has finally allowed herself to believe that her toe/foot is going to better one day soon.  Seeing her toe move again has brought all of us a bit of comfort.

Today, Natalie was up and out early.  On her way to Atlanta to teach lessons.  She will spend the night up there (to save gas money) and teach again tomorrow.  After which she and I will head to Knoxville for a UT Tennis Team Alumni weekend.  She is excited to attend, for she has been on the court during the past years.

While Nat's at the dinner on Friday night, I will go watch the Lady Vols basketball team, thanks to Jessica.  We will reunite at some point and join Edward (Nat's brother) and Robby (Nat's ??) (not sure official yet....hahahahha).  Who will drive up separately due to their work schedules.  Then on Saturday morning we will watch the tennis alumni hit some tennis balls, well except for Natalie.  After which, we will join the Vol Navy on the Boles Boat for pre game party.  Then we will be off to the football game.

Looking forward to a very Orange weekend and showing Robby how we do it in the SEC.  Being a Nebraska fan....yea I know we won't hold it against him....he knows the fun of a big game and stadium.  But he hasn't experienced Vol Nation or the Vol Navy......sooo this is gunna be fun.  And besides, we can pick his brain a lil while Nat's not around and put him thru the "mill"  ...heheheheh.....which will also be much fun.

Must say, there is some exciting news ahead....yes...that's a hint.  More on that in the near future.  Hope you are planning to stay warm and are getting exciting about the upcoming holiday seasons.  Love and Blessings....Sherry

Captiva Island 2014

Good Morning!  And a beautiful fall morning it is, with the sun highlighting the lil color left in the trees.  Must say, sorry for not blogging for over a week but much has been going on and frankly I had a break.  Well, sorta a break!

Following our trip to see Doc Anderson in Charlotte, we tried to figure out a plan of action.  You see, Natalie was to escort a player to the Captiva tourney, I was to tag along.  Yea, I know a tough job but someone has to do it.  Sorry, I digressed!  Anyway, with the news from Doc, Natalie was determined to  start PT right away.  That toe's lack of movement had her very worried.  So, first thing that next morning she made several phone calls.  First, to Tab her PT wiz who said he couldn't see her that day but could on Monday.  Next a call to the gal Nat was to escort, who by the way was wavering going due to her own injury.  Those calls changed all the plans, Nat was not going to Captiva.

A dear friend of ours made arrangements for a condo for us, so I made my way to Sanibel and Captiva. Something I will always be sooo very grateful for!  A lil too last minute to find anyone to take with me.  But I was able to work with a player and her mom who seem to be having issues.  Kinda of a mentor if you will.  Must admit, was much easier for me once they left.  I enjoyed the tourney and beach, and the alone time.  Amazing how well I can sleep when out of the stressful place known as home.

While I collected seashells by the seashore, Natalie got busy with Tab.  As well as with the bands....rubber bands that is.  Part of her PT is to use a lil rubber band on her big toe.  This idea tickles my funny bone soooo much, that in the upcoming days I will be making a video.

But until then, here is a recap video of some of the sights and sounds of Captiva Island tourney:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sly9QvEHMzE&feature=youtu.be

Great News.....Have a Boooootiful Day!

Happy Halloween and Happy News to report!

We left for Charlotte by 9:15 a.m. yesterday morning.  We arrived right on time for the 2:20 p.m. appointment.  And were back for an x-ray in no time at all.  Dr. Anderson came in shortly after.  He was happy with the x-ray and the amount of healing the bone graph has done.  The crack in the sesamoid was no long apparent and the new bone growth was very good.  After yanking and moving Natalie's toe....much to her dismay....for it was the first time in 2 1/2 months the toe has been moved....he game us the game plan.  First and foremost, slow and easy.  Alternate between the boot and the shoe.  Second, he released her for complete PT to get that toe moving.  As well as strenghten the entire foot, ankle and leg.  In a couple of weeks, she can stand in one place and hit balls.  No serving, volleying or running for couple of more months.

Must say, toe yanking did our gal in, much pain for the rest of the day.  She did leave the doctor's office in a Tennessee tennis shoe.  Not only did it not feel good, but it was short lived.  Will be a slow progression into the shoe.  But Natalie is very happy to move on with PT and working her way into a shoe full time.

Following hearing the great news, we hurried to the car.  For we were doing everything we could to be ahead of the traffic.  With rush hour approaching and a Panthers game, we were doomed.  But nope....our efforts paid off.  We made it home by 8:00 p.m.  Boy that was a very long day, and reminder why we normally split a trip like that into two days.  

Today, we are getting ready to see the smiling faces of children as they make their way begging for candy.  One of Nana's favorite days, for she loves the kids.  So, let me log off and get this party day going....can't say started cause I've already been to Walmart to grocery shop.  Have a Boooootiful Day!  Love and Blessings.....Sherry!

Very Humbling and Flattering

Good Morning!

Natalie continues to struggle with the mental part of making so many big decisions.  All hinging on tomorrow's doctors appointment.  Well, in her eyes anyway.  I guess sitting around sooo much has given her tooo much time to over think things.  Something she has always done, but with all the down time it magnified.  Not a good thing, for she is driving herself nuts.  And of course, with a few nosey people that keep drilling her, magnifies the situation.  It is amazing to me that someone's need to know is more important then what is best for Natalie.....in their eyes.  Not a true friend in my eyes.

And yet, two more job offers to confuse the matters.  Now don't get me wrong, I could not be more proud of Natalie on and off the court.  The fact that soooo many have reached out to her and offered some very awesome jobs is a tribute to the wonderful hard working person that she is.  But the job offers continue to confuse the decision making process and draw the focus from playing on the tour.  I mean to be offered $45K for a four month project is not something to ignore.  Especially when you and your family struggle and sacrifice so much to keep you on tour.

Even though at the beginning of this injury period we discussed focusing on healing.  It is very hard to do so with sooo many reaching out.  A good and bad thing.  The good being.....so many think so highly of Natalie that they offer such wonderful opportunities.  Very humbling and flattering.  The bad being....she can't just relax and heal and focus on a "comeback" to the tour.  A very confusing situation.

Please note....I'm not trying to insult any of the people reaching out to Natalie for they do so with what they think are great intentions.  A testimony to how many she has touched and  influenced in the past.  We are truly thankful for the offers.  Just trying to share "our" side of the situation.

And of course all this mental non sense can all be null and void if we go to the doctor tomorrow and he says tennis playing is a no go.  Which is exactly why we were trying to focus on healing for the last two months.  Unfortunately, outside influences interfered with the process.  Just wish people would stop to think of what is really in Natalie's best interest and not what can they take from her for their best interest.  But I guess, since they aren't going through it they can't understand it....why I write this blog.  So that, maybe....just maybe I can share the story of the journey and shed light on the person involved in the journey.

So, I ask for prayers for Natalie.  Prayers that she is healed and gets great news tomorrow.  And prayers that she finds the answers to her questions soon.  Love and Blessings.....Sherry!

Some Tears Today

Hello from a very pleasant day in Georgia!  The day got off to a rough start with Nana taking a fall.  Thank goodness I caught her mid air and was able to gentle sit her on the floor.  Happy to report she has no pain at this point.

Went for an awesome hike at a near by state park.  Was a glorious day and hike.  Does the mind and body good.  Guess God got me prepared for the convo I was to have upon my return home.  Natalie sat me down to let me know that she is going to see what the doc says on Thursday.  But at this point she is not looking at going back on the pro tour.  She is leaning toward one of the many jobs that she has been offered since the injury.  I just hope she is making the right decision for her and not letting all the outside influences get the better of her.  When speaking with her, she is torn and in her words "a little scared".

When the injury happened I explained to her that the decision would come naturally if you let God whisper it in your ear.  But you have to be willing to listen, even if it's a hard thing to do.  She talked bout going to a tournament in Macon to see the players she has been missing.  After being there a short time she said she felt ready to leave and happy not to be on the grind of the road.

Although we shed some tears today, we know that the decision is not made although she is leaning toward going to a resort to teach for the summer.  In her words, the money earned will either give her what she needs to continue on the pro circuit or it will set her up for the "real" working world.  A real shame that a player has to make a decision to work instead of sticking with their passion because no organizations or companies will help them financially.

Nothing harder as a parent then to hear your child leaning toward giving up on a dream.  Although one part of me understands......the other part knows we have yet to see the best of her on the court.  But without the financial help....we may never get a chance to.  That my friends is why the USA doesn't have many players on the pro circuit.....no financial help.....plain and simple!

I hope and pray that God continues to whisper in Natalie's ear, so that she can be very happy with her decisions.  And I pray for strength!  Love and Blessings.....Sherry!

Freeroll

Viva Las Vegas!  Sending you good vibes from Vegas!  The last week or so has been a lil crazy and all over the place emotionally.  Nana's mental state is taking a new turn, which of course is not a good thing.  With me in Vegas, Natalie is on Nana duty.  Nat found her in the kitchen, had empty the contents of the refrigerator.  She had a pair of scissors in hand and had eaten 10 cheese sticks and was working on number 11.  The brain is clearing mis firing to a different level.  We continue to brace ourselves for the future.

Vegas?  Yup, I'm here!  Had a free airline ticket that had to be used by end of October, and free hotel.  Soooooo here I am!  Been able to see the Zac Brown Band, Jimmy Buffet and Donny & Marie thus far.  My favorite being ZZB.  However, I get to see Brittney Spears tonight, so looking forward to that.

Upon my arrival on Thursday, I began to play poker.  Normally, I play low dollar amount tourneys, in this case $30.  Which allows me to play for anywhere between 2-6 hours.  Having grown up in Chicago, I spent many hours playing cards in the winter.  Sooooo I LOVE to play cards.  Well, this trip I decided I was going to try "live action" poker.  Which basically means you "buy in" for a certain dollar amount and that is the amount of "real" money you stand to lose.  It has taken me two years to convince myself to risk $100 to try live action.

I played on Thursday for 4 1/2 hours, walking away with $150 extra.  I was excited!  Found out that if I played 10 prior to 7 a.m. on Saturday morning I could qualify to play a "freeroll tourney".  What is that you ask.....any regular/local customer that qualifies plays tourney at Saturday for a chance to be one of the top 10 finishers, all of which win $300.

If you know me, I'm a bit competitive.  So, on Friday morning I showed up to the poker room at 10 a.m. in hopes of playing so that I could earn more hours.  Unfortunately, no one was there to play.  Since it was my birthday, I decided to have my hair done at 3:30.  After which, I returned to the poker room to earn hours.  Played until 7:05 p.m., then jumped in a taxi to go see ZBB at the MGM.  Following the AWESOME concert....pics to come.....I went back to the poker room.  After all, 7 a.m. Saturday morning was fast approaching.

Upon my return, I was told I still needed 4 1/2 hours of play.  No way, forget it.  Instead I met cousin Dennis (from Texas).  He and I played roulette for a short while, didn't do any good so decided we would play ....yes....you guess it....poker.  To make a long story short....we had a drunk at our table which upset Dennis who went back to his room.  I however, stayed and you guessed it....earned my hours.   By the time Dennis left I only need 2 hours to qualified.  So, finished that up at 6 a.m., went to breakfast, showered changed and was back to the poker room for the tourney by 8:15.

All I could think, is why....oooo why did I do this to myself??  And....where the HELL is the coffee....bring the pots....line em up.  I mean, what good is qualifying if you are so exhausted that you can't think clearly enough to play good poker??   The great news....only 23 people qualified to play.....sooo I only had to play and hour or two.  I think I can....I think I can......

Because the freeroll tourney is designed to give back to the "regulars".....every player that finishes in the top 10 gets $300.  So, only need to play long enough to take out 13 people.  Here's what happened.....

There were 11 players left....including ME....WOOT!  However, I only had one.....yes one ....$1,000 chip left....not good.  I was the one with the least chips, another guy had $2,000.  So, one of us would pop the bubble to the top 10.  The bit boss called for a ten minute break.

During a few hands, I notice the local guy next to me was giving signals to two guys across the table.  Which I read and used to my advantage, I hate cheaters.  During the break, four of the five men sitting at my table were scheming as to how to take me out.  I was very easy to figure out that they were.  I even mentioned it and the head nods to the dealer, who said he would pay attention to their convo, for if they were....it is considered cheating.  A lil part of me, giggled that I had their respected and worried them.

Bout one minute after speaking to the dealer, I turned to see the lil cheating twit next to me over at the other table.  He was whispering in the ear of the other player that was low on chips.  Now, he was definitely cheating.  I was sitting next to my dealer, and I pointed it out to him.  Upon the return to the table.  the lil twit turned to me and said something to the effect.  "Hey, I told that guy he should just fold.  Since you both are short stacked if he folds his blinds you will be even".   My response,  "dude you can't do that, that is cheating and we are not in the same position. I'm on the button he is small blinds".

Thank goodness, the dealer heard it all and was furious.  He set him straight.  I was ticked, now there are five players working together against me.   I took a deep breath and was ready to take them on!

I had five hands to chose from to play.  None of which were good.  Soooo here we go.  I was big blind, which means I had no choice but to put my one and only chip in the pot and play the hand.  Of course, all the cheater went into the hand, in hopes that one on them could beat my hand.  Up to that point, the four of them were NEVER in one hand together.  Soooo obvious that they were cheating!

I took a deep breath, and leaned to the dealer and said "it's in God's hands".  It was time for me to look at my two cards.  OMG....8 and 3......HORRIBLE  CARDS!  Until that is.....the flop......8,8,9.   WOOOOO HOOOOO  I hit three of a kind on the flop.  I had to control my reaction, but I wanted to scream.  The turn was a jack.  Then the river was ......HELL.....YES......another 8!!!   QUADS!   I was soooo excited but had to sit quietly until the cheaters "checked" through their bets.  Then....the lil twit turned his cards over to show a pair, two others hit a full house.  At which time they were all laughing and giggling thinking that one of the three (fourth had nothing) had taken me out!  I sat quietly, then stood and turned my cards over yelling....."WELL....I GOT QUADS"!     <<<insert laughing>>>   Just wish I had their reactions on film.....priceless to say the least!    ahahahahahahahah

Talk about a crazy turn of events, but happy to say honesty won that day....not the cheaters.  Also, happy to say that I finished in the top ten and won $300.  WoooT!  Then I went to my hotel room and crashed!

Natalie has been working hard on her fitness and limited PT.  She will return to the doctor for a post op visit and hopefully full release to PT and regular shoe on October 30th.  Nat took a drive to Macon to  the tourney there.  Besides dropping off a salsa order, she was able to spend time with some of the players and staff she is friends with.  Not sure how she did it, but she somehow talked Nic into driving her and Robby to Macon.  Again, she is soooo lucky to have two awesome brothers.

Time for me to shower, breakfast and get ready for the Brittney Spears concert.  So, until next time...Love and Blessings.....Sherry!

A Lil Reminder to Everyone

Good Day from a gloomy Georgia!  A lil cooler today and the humidity has gone done, a good thing!

Been enjoying some company this weekend.  A friend of Natalie's ....Robbie is stationed at Fort Benning, and is visiting us this weekend.  Been nice getting to know him and what he does to keep us all safe.  He seems to be "fitting in" around here just fine.  Anyone that can put up with our harassment and craziness is okay in my book.

And lil Ed's best friend from high school Cory, was with us Friday night for the game.  He will be here today too.  He,  his brother Chris and their parents, will always have a special spot in my heart.  Unfortunately, we lost his mom Jen a couple of years ago.  But Cory and Chris continue to make her proud everyday.

Natalie has been doing well with her rehab and physical fitness training.  With Sarge Robbie here this weekend....there seems to be a certain sense of competition as it pertains to fitness training.  A good thing, everyone pushing to reach new heights.  However, the manly hormones are present amongst the men.....tickles mine and Natalie's funny bones.

Well, things to do as they say but before I go....here's a lil reminder to everyone:

Bad News and Good News

Good Morning from a chilly yet sunny Georgia.  Been a lil crazy around here, a bit of a world wind.  We have had all kind of bad news and good news.  First, we lost Cole last week and said our good byes on Friday at his viewing.  Which was...and I'm sure the service on Saturday as well....was a wonderful tribute to how many lives were touched by this young man.  Although is loving family and friends selfishly want him here with us, he is in a much better place.  And breathing freely for the first time.

Our friend Kristen lost her dad last week as did our friend Kari.  Another friend got some not so good news about testing the docs have been running.  Please pray for all of them.

 <<<insert good news here>>>>

Natalie, Robby and I were able to attend Edward's football game on Friday night.  Was special because his team (McIntosh) was playing against his alma mater (Northgate)  Which of course is where Natalie and Nic attend also.  Ed's team came out strong and was winning for most of the game, and then.....well....we won't go there AGAIN....let's just say they lost.

Waking up at 4 a.m. on Saturday morning allowed us to leave by 5.  We hit the road to Knoxville, to see the ladies tennis team practice that morning and go to the football game.  It was the checkerboard game vs. Florida.  Wow what a game and fun time....here's the video highlights of our trip:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kK205oRmPoE&feature=youtu.be

We left Knoxville early Sunday morning cuz Edward had football meetings that afternoon.  Got home, unpacked, repacked and headed to Florida by 3 p.m.  Yes.....crazy...I know!  Nic, his dad and I headed south to go get Nic's new jeep.  After spending well over a month, we finally found THE ONE!  When you see the pic below you will understand why we had to travel south of Daytona to get it, not many of them around.

Signed the papers on Monday, a trip to the beach for pictures and we headed north for home.  Yes, this is my life!  But I wouldn't trade it, Nic was sooooo excited to get his jeep.  Was fun to be around to see it and enjoy the ride home in it.

More good news, Jessica and Jeff had their first baby while we were gone.  These two new parents having been waiting a long time for a bundle of joy.  And they got one, Caleb was born Sunday evening, he is perfection!

Even more good news, Natalie's foot is feeling alot better since starting the band workouts.  Her PT guy....Tab was glad with her progress in strength.  She celebrated the news by joining some friends for an Atlanta Hawks game last night.  Our Daaa Darling sat first row court side.  She was right next to the bench with a private waiter.  Must be nice, eh??  ooooo and let's not forget a private TV screen to watch as well.  Anyway, it was a very special invitation which she made the most of, enjoying friends, food, drinks and of course a free t-shirt.  Talk about spoiled!

Today, she and her brother are already out cruising in the jeep.  She has talked him into driving her to her workout in Atlanta this afternoon.  She is soooo lucky to have two great brothers!

As for me, I hope I don't see the inside of a vehicle till at least Thursday!  But the panic has set in that I will be leaving for Vegas in 9 days.  Yikes!  I need to get planning my suitcase load.  I will be celebrating my birthday while there.  Will see Zac Brown Band, Jimmy Buffet, Donny & Marie and Brittney Spears.  Hoping to get some great hiking in at Red Rocks or the Old Train Tracks path at Hoover.  Some cousins will be there from Texas and some friends that live there will help take up some of my 10 days there as well.  10 DAYS....yes 10....was going to go for a week but after thinking about it, if I fly home on Sunday I have a higher chance to get "bumped" and earn another free ticket.  Sooooo since I'm going on this trip due to a free ticket and free hotel stays.....I will try for another free ticket.  One I can use once Natalie gets back on the court and we begin to travel again.

Well, let me get to planning!  Love and Blessings.....Sherry!

Teaching and Fun Began

Happy Hump Day Folks!

Yesterday, we headed south to Manchester, Georgia.  A little town near Columbus, Georgia that has been affected by the economy and loss of industry.  Something the town's people are hopeful will change once a new "connector" road is built.  We pray it for them!  It is a lovely area and town.

Thanks to Gary Hazelrig, Natalie was scheduled to see Tab for her first PT session.  What a nice guy, full of a wealth of great PT info for Natalie.  Although she still can't do weight bearing exercises, Nat was excited to learn her new bands workout.  She can start to ride the stationary bike as well, using her heel.  Another mile stone, working on endurance.  Due to being limited, Natalie will only go to see Tab once a week for next month, but will do PT at home every day.

The teaching and fun began, thanks Tab!  Now get to humpin peeps!  Love and Blessings....Sherry!

Please Pray for the family of Cole Corteau.....

Morning!  Up since 4:15 a.m. due some "jerk" waking up the puppies we are fostering.  UGH!  I'm the one that can't go back to sleep sooooo....here I am.  Sooo annoying!

Tomorrow, we will travel to Columbus, Georgia for physical therapy.  It will be Natalie's first day.  And I'm afraid it is not going to be good.  Unfortunately, she is still having alot of pain at the incision site.  Not sure if this is normal or not for this type of surgery.  So, we are looking for that answer as well as a few more tomorrow.  Please pray for her continued healing!

While since I'm asking you to pray, I will do so again.  Please pray for the family of Cole Corteau.  Who Our Lord called home last night.  This ray of sunshine suffered from Cystic Fibrosis and is now peacefully breathing with Our Father.  His grandmother Madeline, is a friend of ours and was Cole's biggest cheerleader.  Our hearts break for her, her son(Eric) and his family.

Because my soul is screaming this morning, I have to find some positives to talk about.  First, our community has reached out and supported this family.  A wonderful site to see.  One thing that stands out in my mind was last week, the students of East Coweta High School.  For at their homecoming, those loving and wonderful students, voted and crowned Cole their Homecoming King.  An awesome, heartwarming gesture by a loving student body.  Unfortunately, Cole was in ICU battling for his life at the time.  But, I'm guessing that gesture meant a lot to the family members that were holding on to every scrap of HOPE they could at the time.

Second, so that we all may learn from Cole's battle and others suffering from CF.  I humbly ask you to watch this video by One Republic that highlights the disease:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z0rxydSolwU&feature=youtu.be


In the valley of death, I shall fear no evil.....

Look at What Natalie is Doing....ForPaws Rescue

Here's a short video of what Natalie is doing these days.....

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dPIdNXBnRa4&feature=youtu.be



Here is the link to the ForPaws Rescue FaceBook page:

https://www.facebook.com/forpaws.rescue

Vol Fans....Dawn and Alex Bath

Happy Game Day!  College football game day that is!  Nothing like spending a Saturday doing laundry, cleaning, etc. with the "game" on.  Only wish the BIG ORANGE was playing today, our bye week.

A short while back Natalie and I joined Nic in Panama City.  We enjoyed watching him play softball, something we haven't been able to do very often.  On the second day, we arrived and parked.  Upon arrival, we noticed a tent very near us.  Not just any ole tent, but a Tennessee Volunteer tent.  Under the tent were a bunch of guys waiting to play their game.  Upon exiting the car, Natalie gave a "go Vols" shout out to the group.  An in return, we heard the same.

When Nic's game was over, the Tennessee tent was empty.  So we decided to have a lil fun and leave them Vol fans a lil something.  As some of you know, I usually have a tube of Natalie's posters with us.  And I did.  So, Nat autographed two of them and we left them sprawled out under the tent.  To be exact, the corners held down with empty beverage cans (yes, their beer cans).  We joked about hanging around to get their reactions on tape, but our team was ready to head to the beach.

We joked a few times as to what their  reactions would have been.  But our curiosity was cured when Natalie received a couple of tweets from those involved.  Dawn and Alex Bath (assuming husband and wife) both sent tweets thanking Natalie.  Which of course made both of our days.  We are glad we could give a smile to a few Vol fans along our way.  And they did the same for us!

As I've said many times before and I'm sure I will in the future....it's the journey!  Half time, means snack time.....Love and Blessing....Sherry!

Razor

Good Evening!  This week we saw Natalie get back into the swing of things.....no not with a racquet....but still ....progress.  She went back to the gym to work with her fitness guru Paul.  And let me tell ya....she was feeling it.

In my quest to rid my house and garage of all the ....let's just call em....extras.  I've been selling things on local FaceBook pages.  I still have things in boxes from my parents house that I haven't looked at since packing them in Chicago.  This week it's been my dad's album collection.  He worked at Capital Records at one point.  So, Natalie and I have been creating a data base of all the albums and their condition.  What an awesome trip down memory lane for me, although hard at times.  Coming across my dad's favorites like Nat King Cole and Dean Martin.  Or my sister's favorites like Elvis and The Beach Boys.  Or my brother's favs like The Stones and Stevie Wonder.  Boy do I miss the three of them and those times.

Anyways, on one of those sites a lady posted that she was ISO (in search of) two razor scooters.  So, Nic went out in the garage a pulled out Natalie's for me to try to sell.  I mean....strike when the irons hot ...right?  When Nat heard she went dashing (ok...hobbled) out to the driveway.  Yelling, "you can't sell my razor".  Yet another reason we have soooo many "extras" around.  And yes, by the time I got their she was riding it in her boot, I'm thinking not what the doctor ordered.

So, you see we are keeping busy here at home.  Must say missing the road of tennis at times.  I mean we have been at it for over two years and now we came to a stand still.  Adjustments had to be made.  And poor Natalie, well she is just happy to have been able to drive one time this week and to go to the gym.  Something to be said to be out and amoungst the people.  Tonight she made her way to watch her brother Ed coach his high school football team.  I guess a few friends will be joining her, a great thing.  As for me, gunna try to sell that razor before she gets home to hide it.  Love and Blessings.....Sherry!

Sooooo It Begins.....Video

Sooooo It Begins......


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6kP50ZaElmk&feature=youtu.be

McIntosh Visit

Hello Folks, hoping everyone is doing well.  We are moving along here in Georgia, thank goodness with cooler weather too.

Sorry, these pictures are late coming but much is going on.  Here are a few pictures Natalie and Nicholas took with the students at McIntosh High School.  They visited with five Health Classes that day.  From the looks of the pics below, much fun was being had.  And since it is the school where Nat's older brother Ed just started working at, it had added meaning.  As well as, it was across the county lines rival of Natalie's for high school basketball and tennis.  So, many of the staff greeted them with open arms, special indeed.

Was able to drive Natalie to Atlanta today for her FIRST day of fitness training with her coach Paul.  I will post some pics and video soon!  Until then Love and Blessings.....Sherry!

God Bless America!

Remembering 9/11 and all the families that lost members

God Bless America!

I DID NOT Commit the Offense....

Greetings from a gloomy Georgia!  Looks like rain, which we can do without.  Guess mother nature has different ideas!

Natalie and Nic are up and out early this morning.  On their way to McIntosh High School to spend the day with the health classes.  Not sure how, but Nat talked Nic into it again!  Goooo Team Pluskota!

Today is a big day for our gal, for she gets to throw down the crutches and put on a boot.  Progress!  She was very excited, however we have a different opinion as to wether or not she is to keep the toe splint on while the boot is on.  She is convinced she is supposed to keep it on, I don't think so.  Guess I'll have to call Doc Anderson's office and see who was listening better at our last visit.

This boot was made for walking....WOOT!

Now onto some unfinished business.  Some of you noticed and some of you did not.  Back in July, while in Canada, I wrote about my day.  Some of you questioned me about one of my statements and some of you didn't notice.  What statement you ask???  Let me try to explain.....

That awful morning/day....I was in Portland enjoying Jan's company when I got news about Natalie's foot injury.  So, I loaded and headed to Vancouver, about a 4-5 hour ride which took 10 hours due to traffic and me getting lost.  That awful day when about an hour into that awful ride I got news that Nana had fallen backwards into the bathtub....didn't have and residual affects...which of course I didn't know at the time.  To help jog your memory, it was the awful day that ended with me finding a "sign of HOPE".  Anyway....in my writings I wrote that I had a trifecta of bad luck that day.  To recap....#1 being Natalie's injury......#2 being Nana's fall....#3????

That was the question that some of you asked and some of you didn't even notice that I left that one out.  Wellllll....I am FINALLY ready to talk about it.  For it was soooo very frustrating and upsetting at the time I just had to put it on the back burner until I took care of Natalie and her foot.  I could only deal with soooo much at a time.  Now onto #3.....

Just north of Seattle, I was traveling in the center line of I5, with a vehicle in front of me.  When I looked up at the overpass in front of me and there sat a trooper.  Who was "jumping" into action.  Thought to myself, ooo he has gotten someone.  I continued doing what I was doing.  A silver car in the left lane immediately pulled into the center lane in front of the vehicle ahead of me.  That vehicle slowed us until they could pull behind another vehicle in the right lane.  Meanwhile, I saw the trooper on his way down the ramp with his lights on.  The trooper pulled behind the vehicle that was in the right lane with blinker on... who started  pull onto the shoulder...when...all of a sudden the trooper pulled behind me.  Yes....and pulled me over!  

I was sooo very surprised and stunned.  In his words, "I clocked you in the left lane doing 90 in a 70".  To shorten this already toooo long of a story.....I tried to explain to him that I thought he had the wrong person but in his words, "that's not how I saw it".  I took the ticket and fumed all the way to Canada.  Replaying what happened a hundred times in my mind.  HE PULLED OVER THE WRONG PERSON.  But I couldn't deal with it at the time, for I had to figure out how to get Natalie medical help while out of the country.....more important for sure.

The entire ordeal was soooo crazy that I didn't talk about it to anyone for about 4-5 days.  I was determined to contact the officer's supervisor and request that the "on dash" camera footage be reviewed.  That is if there was a camera.  However, with all that we were going through to get Natalie taken care, I didn't have time or the energy to deal with the ticket until I got back to Georgia.

The ticket was printed on a printer in the trooper's vehicle and had that type of ink that begins to disappear.  So, by the time I got to it, it was very hard to read.  I called the court with questions.  Found out that I could "make an appearance" via an online submission.  WOOOOO HOOOOO!  I was so excited that I could tell my side of what happened.  I mean if I had committed the offense ....I would have paid the $175 ticket.    But I was not doing 90 in a 70, that is NOT me and I was in the center lane.  

I went on line and testified on my own behalf, humbling requesting that the dash cam film be reviewed.  I am very happy to say that I received notice last week, that I DID NOT commit the offense.  WOOOOO HOOOOO for the truth being sought and proved.

That entire ordeal has had me thinking that maybe I should have a portable dash cam with me at all times.  I mean how would one prove their innocence in a situation like that??  It's the trooper's word against mind....and let's face it ....people lie every day to get out of a ticket.  This morning I saw a bit on a morning show about portable dash cams.....a reminder that I need to look into one after all.

Thank God for truth and justice....I certainly can't afford to waste $175 on a ticket, especially someone elses!  Until the boot lovin gal gets back with stories of the day.....Love and Blessings....Sherry

Sand Between the Toes...

Greetings from Panama City Beach, Florida!  Why are we here, our Nic is playing in a national softball tournament.  And for a change, Natalie and I can attend and cheer him on.  Like weddings, birthdays, graduations and all other occasions, we never get to attend em.  Due to being on the road of tennis.  So, it is very nice for us to watch, but more importantly for Nic to have family in the stands cheering him on.

Unfortunately, Nic's team lost their first two games, therefore they are out of the tourney.  Which means we got to go to the pool and beach yesterday and again today.  Soooo very sad, that we are forced to put our toes in the water.....said.....no one ....EVER!    LOL!  Not so easy for Natalie, crutching ever where, so Nic, Shelly and others have been carrying her on their backs or on the wagon.  But she can't get in the water, so that's a bummer, however she is really enjoying the down time with her brother.

What a great brother.....Nic!

Speaking about our gal, her foot is progressing well.  She is able to put weight on the heel and will move into a boot next week.  Just a lil prospective.....Kei Nishikori just beat THE FED yesterday.  Kei had the same surgery by the same surgeon as Natalie.  He had it done last year, this year he is playing the US Open Championship.  That has given me much hope to the future health of Nat's foot, very reassuring!

Well, time to pack up this hotel room and move into the "team" condo since everyone is leaving, and we can stay till tomorrow...WOOT!  Soooo until I remove the sand between the toes.....Love and Blessings......Sherry!

Last night's sunset!

Miss Clementine!

Happy 90th Birthday to Our Nana!  

Miss Clementine Nowakowski

Miss Clementine...back in the day!

We started with a pedicure and manicure....yes...that's Nats foot too!

She wanted steak and potato for lunch...yes she is from the Midwest!

Had this Wheel of Fortune cake made for her!

A wish and a prayer!

Model T Ford

Been enjoying watching the US Open!  Is it me or are the retired players totally against "nobodies" doing well....sorta like they don't deserve it or haven't earned it?   Oooo well, what do I know?

Our gal has be in Alabama coaching Caroline.  Unfortunately, the weather hasn't been cooperating.  Caroline had to play two singles and on doubles match yesterday.  And a singles and dubs match today.  As a matter of fact, she just lost in dubs and they are headed across the boarder to Georgia.  Yay, me I get to go pick her up around 11 p.m. tonight.

Anyway, Natalie has run into many friends while at the junior tourney and has been enjoying it.  This week she plans on coaching a few lessons, I pray I won't have to ball feed while she coaches.  But hey, whatever it takes.

But first, we will celebrate our Nana's 90th birthday tomorrow.  Just a few months back, I didn't think she was going to make it, but here we are.  God is Good!  Crazy to think about all the changes in our world she has seen.  We love to listen to her point of view when she saw or used something for the first time, like an electric wash machine.  Or getting run over by a car when she was 7 years old....thank goodness it was a skinny tire...according to her.  A skinny tire = Model T Ford.  Y'all.....my mom was run over by a Model T Ford in 1931.....CRAZY!   ahhhaahhaha  Anyway.....Think we will start our day with a pedicure and manicure.

Well, let's see what this week brings....Love and Blessing....Sherry!

I'm Officially Old

Sooo much to catch you up on, sorry for the delay....not enough hours in my day.  Ok, so Natalie and I headed to Charlotte on Thursday afternoon.  With a stop in Columbia for dinner with friends.  We met with American soldier Andrew's family.  A college friend of Natalie, who happens to be a boom operator and is keeping us safe.  We enjoyed dinner with Jenny, Greg and Erica.  As well with visiting with Audrey and her beautiful new daughter Dagny.  We even were able to exchange a few texts messages and pictures with Andrew, who of course wishes he was having dinner with us....but he has work to do, on our behalf.  A wonderful family and visit!

Miss Dagny and Miss Natalie!

We continued onto our hotel in Rock Hill for the night.  Nat's appointment was at 7:45 a.m., so we were up and out early.  Although our bodies and minds wanted to stay in bed.  Made our way to Dr. Anderson's office, which to our surprise was filled with staff and patients.  The x-ray showed that Natalie was healing well, but the break was still visible.  Again, due to lack of blood supply to that area, very hard to heal the break, will take a while.  But all was going well.  The stitches were removed and of course....had to bleed a while.....nothing is ever easy for our gal.  With the bleeding stopped and the new "toe" splint in place we received our next plan of action.  Which is.....splint for two weeks, no driving, can shower.  Then to the boot for four weeks.  Then to shoe with insert.  Recheck October 30th.

The bone graph was done here.

Site that was used to harvest the bone for the graph.

There you have it.  We left the office hopeful and excited with the news.  The little things as they say.  Made our way home with a couple of stops along the way.  Did beat the holiday and race traffic, thank goodness.  Had to make it quick, because Natalie had a coaching job to get home to.  She was to escort a junior player to Birmingham for a tourney Friday evening.  So, we had no time to waste.

Coach Pluskota in Action!

Just about home and Nat received a text saying that they wouldn't leave for Alabama until Saturday since the gal didn't play until the afternoon.  Nat was excited, because then she could go with me to watch Coach Pluskota (her brother) coach his second regular season high school game.  So, after a quick nap out the door we went.  Join by Jaynie and Sadie, we went to watch high school football, and had a blast.

Yesterday morning, I dropped Nat off with Caroline and they made their way to Alabama.  Unfortunately, horrible weather kept all the matches off the court.   And they had an 8 a.m. match, Nat's favorite...hahahahha....NOT!   Oooo the joys of junior tennis, glad its her and not me!  Want to share a text I got from Nat this morning....soooo funny:

"That moment yesterday when I'm crutching into the hotel and a mom and her daughter go are you Natalie Pluskota and I'm like yes.  And the mom and girl go....OMG my daughter was a ball kid for you a long time ago....I'm officially old!"

Yea....OK....Nat...you are old at 24....ahahahah now that's funny on sooo many levels!  So, sweet that they remember Natalie.  Guess it was a good experience for the young player, so that's good!

Well, Caroline won this morning and will play again at one.  I guess she will play a total of 4 matches today if she continues here winning ways.  Hope the matches are done by game time, or our gal will not be a happy camper.  Oooo well, the price of being a working girl!  Guess, I can send her updates.

Our Nana will turn 90....yes 90 on Tuesday.  So, been preparing a lil family celebration.  Excited to have found someone to bake her a cake and decorate it with a Wheel of Fortune theme.  Her favorite T.V. show.  Yesterday, my son Ed took her and me out for a birthday dinner.  She really enjoyed herself and time with her first grandson.

I think that catches you up on everything!  Hope our world finds PEACE and soon, so we can bring Andrew and all soldiers home to their families.  God Bless American!  Love and Blessings ....Sherry!

HHmmmm What Kind of Jobs....

Wow....29,001 views of our blog....THANK YOU, THANK YOU!  We appreciate your interest in Natalie and her life as a professional tennis player.  As you know, part of the life in injuries....unfortunately.  And the current injury has our gal going bonkers sitting on the sofa just ain't her style.  Must say tho, she has had many friends either sending her awesome care packages, thank you Jan.   And several cards and notes have been delivered too, always brings a smile to her face when something arrives in the mail.

And many thanks to her friends that have reached out to Natalie and or come by to "rescue" her from the sofa.  Last night a dear friend (Lauren) from high school took her out for dinner.  Before that she watched Sadie play softball thanks to Nic and Jaynie.

The one thing that has been happening that brings mixed emotions are job offers.  Now don't get me wrong, I'm very proud that soooo many think enough of Natalie that they are offering her some amazing positions.  But it only confuses her more as to what she wants to do.  Being very emotional due to the injury only makes the pressure (lack of better word) of turning down the job offer ten times worse.  When the injury happened we received some medical opinions that stirred Natalie in the direction of decision.  That with the job offer phones calls was becoming toooo much.  So, had to set her down and let her know that now is the time to heal, not the time to make decisions.  First, we don't know what the outcome of the surgery will be, therefore she shouldn't think her playing days are over.  Unless of course she just doesn't want to play anymore, which I truly don't think is the case.  Second, she can't take a job in the condition she is in, the foot needs to be up and no weight bearing.  Third, it is NEVER good to make major decisions when you are filled with emotions.  It is a time to step back and let God guide you, as hard as that maybe with the outside trying to swoop in.

I can sense you are wondering....hmmm what kind of jobs.  Ok....here are a couple of examples:  Assistant tennis coach at a Division 1 university, tennis coach at a new tennis center in Florida, tennis coach for private lessons at complex here in Georgia.   Yes, all are great jobs, all of which will be available in the future, maybe not at the same places but nevertheless it will be easy for her to obtain a job.  For she has many options with her degree and experience.  So, definitely no need to rush a decision to go into the "normal" working world.

Many thanks to those of you that have offered Natalie a job.  She is very excited every time she is contacted.  Excited to know she has options.  Everyone like to know they are wanted, a great feeling indeed!

Tomorrow, we will head to Charlotte for that early Friday morning doctor's appointment.  Looking forward to hearing the latest and next step to the process.  For, we are ready to get this party re started.  So, let me get my hump day party started.....Love and Blessings....Sherry!

A Slap in the Face

Hello Friends!  Many of you may remember the blog I wrote back in June about the U.S. Open Playoff Series.  The one that spoke about Natalie's partner Hunter being "told" not to play in the Atlanta mixed doubles tournament with Nat.  That caused Nat to have to find a last minute partner, thank goodness for Ricky!  Anyway.....spoke about Hunter and one of the gals that won the NCAA dubs title would be getting a "wild card" into the US Open, therefore he shouldn't play with Natalie.

Well, we heard that Hunter and his new partner have been in New York training and getting ready.  Only to find out today, when the list was released that they DID NOT receive a wild card.  In fact, they are first alternate.....a slap in the face.   Boy does this story sound familiar???  Yes.....alll TOOOO!  It is a shame that college players continue to be treated in the manner.  Shame ......Shame!  Oooo well, the secret society of tennis continues another day!  

Our gal is doing well.  The swelling is down which has caused the splint to become lose.  Tending to rub and aggravate the toes.  Lucky for Natalie, we will leave on Thursday for Charlotte.  We have a 7:45 a.m. appointment on Friday morning, so there is now way I'm getting up at 3 a.m. to drive there.  So we will see the doc and then head for home.  Natalie will be traveling to Birmingham that evening to escort a junior player to a tourney there.  Make a lil money for herself, a great opportunity considering her current situation.

Sure am missing being at the U.S. Open this year.  We have enjoyed it the last two years, and were looking forward to Nat's chances for getting into the mixed and ladies dubs draws.  Dreams dashed for one more year.  Enough said, Love and Blessings....Sherry!

5th Graders at Thomas Crossroads Elementary School

Good Evening ...almost Good Morning!  Natalie, Nic and I really enjoy visiting with the 5th graders at Thomas Crossroads Elementary School.  Many thanks to Mrs. Lorrie Shaffer for the invite and willingness to put our gal ....and her brother to work.  And to Principal Dr. Simmons for a nice greeting and escort, sure to miss seeing the "big guy" on a regular basis.  Used to work with him, in another life.  He got a charge out of Natalie telling the story of jumping up and hanging on the door frames and the retired Principal Hattie Dunn always would catch her.  Or getting caught climbing any pole or pillar in the school and Principal Dunn would alllllwayyyys catch her.  YES, she was a monkey too!

Anyway, Natalie and Nic made a great team.  They were asked to speaking about the importance of setting goals.  Our gal started out and at the point of talking about her re evaluating her upcoming goals in light of her injury she choked up.  The eyes welded up to surprise of her brother.....who most graciously took over the conversation to allow her a moment to regroup.  Yea, not a dry eye in the room.  I guess, down deep she really isn't ready for her pro career to be over, guess time will tell.

Sooooo very proud of Natalie and Nic and their efforts today.  The kids were fully engaged and relating to them.  Was so very awesome to witness, a proud mom moment for sure.  I was able to record some of the presentation, the audio is not very good, forgive me.  But thought you might like to hear part of what they spoke about with the kids.  Please enjoy!  Love and Blessings....Sherry!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MWZa8dZw9h4&feature=youtu.be

She is Bored

Good Morning from a muggy Georgia!  A bit of an update...Natalie has been complete off meds for three days.  She doesn't like the way they make her feel, so she puts up with the pain instead.  That's my girl, I'm the same way.  But for real, she is doing great as far as the foot is concerned.  However, she is driving me nuts cuz she is bored.  Nat is so used to be very busy, it is hard for her to sit on her bum.

Having said that, I took to Facebook and posted a message to my teacher and coaching friends.  Asking them if they need a visitor.  I mean.....can you think of a better way to rehab then being surround by a bunch of toothless wonders?  Fielding questions and hopefully inspiring young minds to set goals is a great way to spend her time.  Sooooo if you need a visitor to your classroom or to speak to your team, just let me know.  For I have to fill 5 more weeks of time....UGH!

We continue to pray everyday that this bone graph will work.  And appreciate your continued prayers.  Must thank those of you that have contacted Natalie via phone, text, twitter,  and snail mail.  She really appreciates you taking the time, so do I...thank you, thank you!

Not quiet a week since Loree left us!  Yes, left us!  That's how we feel, deserted!  I mean couldn't she just blow off her senior year of college and just stay here with us....GEEEEZZZZ!??  But for real, Loree was a great  addition to Team Pluskota and we miss her every day.  Love you Ree Ree!

Guess it's time to ready for Natalie's first school visit of the fall.  She will be going to Thomas Crossroads Elementary School.   Which is the school she attended.  Some how she has convinced her brother Nic (firefighter) to go with her, not sure how.  So, the kids are in for a treat, the tag team are headed their way.   Until the flip side of this school visit.....Love and Blessings.....Sherry!

Ed's Video

A lil shout out to Ed, Natalie's brother and my son.  He has been trying to get a full time teaching job for 3 years....yes...3 years.  Of course, due to Washington there weren't any jobs for him.  Well, very happy to say that he has been hired full time and we are soooo happy and proud of him!  A lil video to mark the occasion, hope you enjoy it.

Btw....Natalie is doing well!  Been able to cut back to half of a pain pill every 6-8 hours, which is awesome.  Except now she is getting bored.  So, pondering some projects to get her started on that can be done while sitting.  Or she is going to drive me crazy!

Back to  Ed and the video....here you go:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3ygug22rAp0&feature=youtu.be

Thanks You Pluskotas

Today is the final day for me.  My flight leaves at 2 this afternoon and I should arrive home around 6.  This whole trip has truly been an experience that I have enjoyed.  For starters, being able to work for Team Pluskota has been such a blessing that I have been looking forward to for a while now.  Sherry and Natalie have been a lot of fun and together we make quite a team.  Even with all the craziness and "black cloud" moments I wouldn't change..."much"... about the past five weeks.  

Being on the road for so long you become grateful for all the people along the way.  Those who housed us were the biggest blessings, but meeting the players and seeing the sites was my favorite part.  I am thankful that I was there for this journey for Natalie and Sherry because they definitely needed a support system these past few weeks.  

Some of the things that I learned are: no matter how much you try to prepare, there will always be obstacles; working hard is something to always work on; and professional athletes do not always have everything handed to them.

This opportunity has given me a chance to learn and experience a lot of unique situations, and looking at a future career in Sports Management, I have gained useful knowledge.

On a side note, this last few weeks I have been waiting for hear back from a company about an internship with a wedding and event company.  I am happy to announce that I have been chosen as one of their fall interns.  The wedding season begins very soon and my schedule is getting full fast with internships, tennis, and school.

Even though the excitement about senior year has set in,  I am going to miss being around the Pluskotas.  We have experienced plane delays, traffic jams, tears, hating Canada, x-rays, MRI's, more tears, broken foot, late night clanning.. you get the message.  They have been my second family for the past month and I am going to miss them and being able to talk to them everyday.

Thanks Pluskota Family for letting me into your home and being apart of the family for awhile.  You guys seriously rock and I am so thankful to have experienced this all with you.  Even though I said,  I would change a couple things, honestly, there isn't anything I would change.  You guys are an incredible family and work so hard for one another.  I appreciate the hospitality you showed me and hope to continue to be apart of the family!  I love all of you!

Till next time...

Loree

Her Attitude Has Arrived

Yesterday, was the day that we had not been looking forward too.  We drove up to Charlotte, NC on Monday and spent the night in preparation for Tuesday's appointment, which led us to Wednesday...surgery day.  There were jitters during those few days of not knowing what was going to happen, and those jitters became nerves as we pulled up to the clinic for surgery.  As much as she wouldn't admit it, Natalie was very hesitant and anxious about this day and was ready to get it over with.  When they took her back to Pre Op, Sherry and I had to wait awhile to see her,  but we finally got to go back and one could tell the nerves and anxiety was becoming more real to her.  Natalie had a great group of people working on her, and that continued to come check in on her which definitely was reassuring to all of us.  We sat and talked to her for awhile before surgery, but then it came her time to go back so we said our goodbyes and headed back to the waiting room.

During the surgery there wasn't much to do, but eventually the phone rang and Natalie was in the recovery room waiting for us.  Walking in you could tell she had been medicated because she was in and out of sleep for about a half hour.  As time went on Natalie became more and more pale looking in the face and continued to complain about being hot.  In the past, Natalie has struggled with anesthesia and nausea, so Sherry started to fan her with her gown and we found a wet towel to put on her forehead.  Dripping sweat from her arms, neck, and face, Natalie decided its too hot and she throws off her gown!  Good thing it was only Sherry and I because the nurse was running around trying to find something she could get sick in, but we ended up avoiding that situation... THANK GOSH!

They brought some medication for her to relax her and help with nausea, which it did, and we were able to get her into her normal clothes in no time!  After getting her into the car and starting on the road tensions were high.  Her foot was propped up on the dashboard and her seat was leaned all the way back, not very comfortable with those long legs if you ask me!  On the road her attitude arrived because the medication had started to wear off and all we could think about is "how close is the hotel?"  We did stop and get her something to eat: tacos, nachos, and Japanese.  Our gal was hungry!!

We stopped in Commerce, GA and got Natalie all situated with her 5 pillows for the night.  Last night was not bad, she took her medication and went back to sleep with no problems, but this morning at 6 a. m. was not fun.  She needed more medication and had to go to the bathroom, she ended up waking everyone up.  After taking her medication she found some energy to talk to us, which we were NOT happy about.  After we ignored her long enough Natalie thought it was important to check on her "Clan" from the game Clash of Clans.  At this point she still wouldn't stop talking so I took it into my own hands to smother her for a second.  She got the message and let us go back to sleep.

The trip hasn't been paradise, but it sure has been interesting.  Our gal is doing good today, she has gotten up and taken a shower and is eating!  GOOD SIGNS!

We are headed back home today, once of course we have checked out the outlet mall here, but then its back home.  Keep the prayers coming because I know Natalie and Sherry are really appreciating them.

Till next time...

Loree