The chess tournament was fun, even though I didn't do exceptionally well. I played four games, winning only one. There was a lot of stiff competition but it was a good experience. The wife was wonderful; a real trooper who stuck by my side through a very long day and she picked me up when I felt down about losing. All told, I played a little tight, at the beginning, but loosened up throughout the day. I learned a lot about tournament play, which bodes well for future competitions. Ellice and I also spent a good amount of time walking and talking between matches, which was really cool.

It seems that I captured one thing at the tournament even if it wasn't a ribbon; a cold. And not a cold like Ellice means 'a cold', but an honest to goodness coughing, stuffy head cold. Fortunately it didn't really kick in until after the waterpark (probably contributed). The waterpark was a thrill and a bargain.

Work's a drag, but there is an end in site thanks to my wonderful, understanding wife, who is allowing me to change careers- from Tech support agent to substitute teacher, probably the most noble of professions. I had to include that as everyone who would possibly read this blog has been one; don't let it ever be said that I don't know my audience.

We're heading for another busy weekend packed with fun. Tonight is of course date night where Ellice and I plan on going to a local Thai restaurant. I'm a little skeptical of dining adventures, but Ellice assures me that there are things I will enjoy on the menu, so I'm looking forward to it. Then the movie; we thought briefly about seeing the M. Night Shamamamamamalan movie, but decided instead that we will go watch My Super Ex-Girlfriend. After the movie, we'll probably go to bed early; take from that what you will.

Saturday, I have the big chess tournament, part of the Bluegrass summer games. I most likely won't do very well, but it should be enjoyable nonetheless. I'll do my best to keep wife entertained as she is being super supportive by going to this all-day geekfest with me. She will get her choice on where to eat that day. Afterward, if we feel up to it after this grueling mental marathon, we may go to a group dinner in Lexington. No notice on where the people are meeting. If you know me at all, you know that not knowing where we are going is a bit disconcerting.

Then Sunday, church and the Star Wars game which will keep me out till late (more geekdom, I know).
Monday we are going to 'The Beach', a waterpark across the road from King's Island (not Boomerang Bay, a competitor). That will be an allday affair, and the majority of the Chick clan is going. Should be a good weekend, and with the day off, I'm looking forward to the abbreviated work week that follows.

Well, it turns out I was sick, sick as a dog on the day of the wedding. My glassy-eyed stare in the pictures is evidence enough that I had little idea what was going on. All I really remember out the day was sunflowers, millions and millions of sunflowers, and a nap in a dorm room while the reception carried on elsewhere in the building.

Vacation was fantastic, once I got over the illness. Two days at King's Island was just the right medicine for me.

My return to work was stressful, and continues to be with all the changes. My wife has been great during all this, listening to my grumbling and using various stress reduction techniques like footrubs, massages and what have you.

Ellice got a job at Clark Middle and I am so excited. This means that when our insurance kicks in, I have the option to start subbing and quit this job. Woohoo!! Maybe I can finish that Great American Novel I've been working on for the last two years.