All's I can say is it was One Wild Night!
I LOVE my girls!
You Play... then you Pay.
Sometimes it seems it should be the other way around, but this week it was definitely NOT. I still haven't had a normal day since Tuesday night. The Corner Tavern was very brave to let us stay as late as we did. Don't know if they are going to let us come back... nah... they will.
All's I can say is it was One Wild Night!
All's I can say is it was One Wild Night!
My Fairy Name
How fun is this?
Your fairy is called Buttercup Hailglitter.
She is a protector of the lonely.
She lives in clover fields where fairy rings grow.
She is only seen in the light of a shooting star.
She wears bright clover green. She has cheery turquoise wings like a butterfly.
Your fairy is called Buttercup Hailglitter.
She is a protector of the lonely.
She lives in clover fields where fairy rings grow.
She is only seen in the light of a shooting star.
She wears bright clover green. She has cheery turquoise wings like a butterfly.
Not Pink Floyd's...
But our new retaining WALL!
Finally got a chance to step outside and take a few snaps of Zach's handiwork. And work it has been! For about a month now, using his weekends, Z has been building this beauty. I can't wait until he's done because... it means he starts work on our new floors! Woohoo!
Slow going now that I'm back from FL. Got up way too late today. Been catching up on some scrapping -- got to get these damn circle journals out this week. A burden I am ready to be rid of! 2 more to go. I've got the pictures ordered and will finish tomorrow. THEN, it's on to some scrapping for myself! It's summer and there is no better time!
Finally got a chance to step outside and take a few snaps of Zach's handiwork. And work it has been! For about a month now, using his weekends, Z has been building this beauty. I can't wait until he's done because... it means he starts work on our new floors! Woohoo!
Slow going now that I'm back from FL. Got up way too late today. Been catching up on some scrapping -- got to get these damn circle journals out this week. A burden I am ready to be rid of! 2 more to go. I've got the pictures ordered and will finish tomorrow. THEN, it's on to some scrapping for myself! It's summer and there is no better time!
Nice Tat...
I GOT A TATTOO!!
Well, it's henna, but isn't it fun??? After dinner last night, Mom and I went to make our mark -- or get marked, as it were. She has a cuff all the way around her ankle, and I couldn't resist this butterfly.
It's been a fun four days visiting mom and dad. I've walked on the beach and swam in the ocean. After visiting the Local Scrapbook Stores, I am newly inspired! I just finished reading The DaVinci Code and now I'm ready to see the movie! Mission Accomplished!
We head back home today... more books and scrapping await!
Back from the West Coast!
Well, it was a whirlwind visit, but a good one nonetheless. Once I got over my worry about Xerxes, I was able to relax and really enjoy the fam.
Our flight(s) out were ridiculous! The flight out of ATL was delayed. In Las Vegas we had 20 minutes to make our connection. We barely made it, but then we had to return to the gate anyway because of some kind of mechanical malfunction. We arrived at PDX around 3 AM. My back was killing me, I was exhausted, and all Zach could think was, "I bet our luggage won't be here..." Such an optimist!
We surprised the crap out of Grandpa -- he wasn't expecting us at all! The opening was awesome. He had a great turn out, and I'm sure many more people will come to see his killer artwork.
Other than that, we helped out with some landscaping. Zach, of course, had to get on the tractor. It was a fun time!
The flights back were fine. No problems. No delays. No mechanical issues. Needless to say, though, we won't be flying those friendly skies again.
Off to visit M&D tomorrow morning. Still trying to figure out how I'm going to get to the airport... All I know is... 4 days at the beach -- HELL YEAH!
Some fun pictures from Grandpa's Art Show:
Our flight(s) out were ridiculous! The flight out of ATL was delayed. In Las Vegas we had 20 minutes to make our connection. We barely made it, but then we had to return to the gate anyway because of some kind of mechanical malfunction. We arrived at PDX around 3 AM. My back was killing me, I was exhausted, and all Zach could think was, "I bet our luggage won't be here..." Such an optimist!
We surprised the crap out of Grandpa -- he wasn't expecting us at all! The opening was awesome. He had a great turn out, and I'm sure many more people will come to see his killer artwork.
Other than that, we helped out with some landscaping. Zach, of course, had to get on the tractor. It was a fun time!
The flights back were fine. No problems. No delays. No mechanical issues. Needless to say, though, we won't be flying those friendly skies again.
Off to visit M&D tomorrow morning. Still trying to figure out how I'm going to get to the airport... All I know is... 4 days at the beach -- HELL YEAH!
Some fun pictures from Grandpa's Art Show:
The Moose Man is gonna be fine!
Sooooooooooo, Xerxes, my kitty cat, ate a penny. No, he's not the smartest cat in the litter. But he's really cuddly!
We went to the vet. They sent me to another vet. I left that vet ($2500 for surgery -- are you NUTS?!) and went to another vet. FINALLY, someone who could perform the surgery and take care of my boy... capable and reasonable.
I brought him in this morning, confirmed his ailment, and left him in the hands of an awesome doctor.
Got a phone call a few minutes ago and found out that my boy is going to be fine. He's spending the night at the doctor's office, and I will most likely pick him up tomorrow.
WHEW! Big sigh of relief!
survey says!
got this from stacy on myspace. thought it was fun!
1) Are you a chick or a dude? chick
2) What's your lucky number? 3
3) Do you pray?Yes I do
4) Ever wish on stars? Sometimes
5) Do you believe in karma?Absolutely
6) What's your zodiac sign? Virgo
7) Have you ever almost died? Yes
8) Have you ever had your heart broken? Yes, and it still haunts me
9) Do you cry during sad movies? Yes
10) Do you like to dance? Love it!
11) Do you like to watch movies? Yes
12) Ever sat on a rooftop? No
13) Is there such thing as a soul mate? Yes, and I married mine.
14) Could you live without the television? Yes.
15) Could you live without music? Absolutely NOT!
16) Do you have any self inflicted scars? No
17) What do u dislike about life right now? My cat has to have surgery on Tuesday and I leave on a trip on Wednesday.
18) Have you ever been to jail? Nope
19) Ever had a job for less than a day? Nope
20) Ever been fired on your day off? Nope
21) Ever been fired because of your attitude? Nope -- but I think my AP thought about it once or twice.
22) Do you get jealous of other people? Yes, it's not pretty.
23) Would you rather love someone or be loved? be loved... I need the return!
24) What's under your bed right now? a plastic sheet... Z has yet to built a platform for our bed
25) Have you ever done anything illegal? Yes (wait, can that incriminate me?)
26) Have you ever been dumped? Oh, Yes
27) What's your GPA? don't have one2
8) How cool are you? on a scale of 1-10, I'm an 11!
29) Do you support abortion? I am pro-choice
30) What are you watching right now? the steam come off my coffee cup
31) Did you graduate high school?Yep
32) Do you wear the same clothes two days in a row? Not often
33) Have you ever driven someone crazy? I'm sure I have
34) Ever bullied someone? Unfortunately, yes.
35) Ever done the Macarena? Who hasn't?
36) Do you act your age? Only when I have to!
37) Is it okay to disrespect your parent? no, but it is okay to disagree!
38) Do you flush the toilet when you're done? at home, yes, in Oregon, no
39) How long do you stay in the shower? less than 10 minues
40) What kind of soap do you use? Dove bar
41) Are mullets cool? Only on Mandy
42) Spiderman, Batman, or Superman? Spiderman
43) Do you like your middle name? Yes, it's my sister's first name
44) Has anyone ever cheated on you? Yes
45) Who was the last person who called you? Dub
46) What's your favorite animal? elephant
47) Favorite color? blue
48) Have you ever shaved your head? no
49) For medical use, should weed be legal? yes
50) Do you think it is okay to drink and drive? NO
51) If you won 1 million dollars, what would you buy first? a turtle waffle cone at Bruster's!
52) Do you fear terrorism? yes
53) How many times have you been drunk? Too many to count
54) What's your favorite candle scent? discover
55) Do you use profanity? f*** yeah!
56) Who are the last people you talked to on MSN? AIM? YIM? not an IMer.
57) What is something you're annoyed with? my totally messy house
58) What woke you up this morning? My cat throwing up
59) What did you dream about last night? I don't remember
60) Ever been to the zoo? Yes, but the last day of school was Wednesday (heehee)
61) How many beers did you have today? YUCK! I don't drink beer!
62) What's the last movie watched? What to do in case of fire? (German w/subtitles, argh!)
63) Are you usually late or on time? on time
64) What's a cartoon you watch often? not a cartoon watcher
65) Do you have any imaginary friends? no
66) Are you waiting on something right now? Yes, my coffee to cool enough for me to drink it
67) What do you honestly look for in a girl/guy? Honesty
68) Who's ugly? mean people
69) Are you worried about something? Yes
70) Do you think anyone will read this about you? Yes, I think so
1) Are you a chick or a dude? chick
2) What's your lucky number? 3
3) Do you pray?Yes I do
4) Ever wish on stars? Sometimes
5) Do you believe in karma?Absolutely
6) What's your zodiac sign? Virgo
7) Have you ever almost died? Yes
8) Have you ever had your heart broken? Yes, and it still haunts me
9) Do you cry during sad movies? Yes
10) Do you like to dance? Love it!
11) Do you like to watch movies? Yes
12) Ever sat on a rooftop? No
13) Is there such thing as a soul mate? Yes, and I married mine.
14) Could you live without the television? Yes.
15) Could you live without music? Absolutely NOT!
16) Do you have any self inflicted scars? No
17) What do u dislike about life right now? My cat has to have surgery on Tuesday and I leave on a trip on Wednesday.
18) Have you ever been to jail? Nope
19) Ever had a job for less than a day? Nope
20) Ever been fired on your day off? Nope
21) Ever been fired because of your attitude? Nope -- but I think my AP thought about it once or twice.
22) Do you get jealous of other people? Yes, it's not pretty.
23) Would you rather love someone or be loved? be loved... I need the return!
24) What's under your bed right now? a plastic sheet... Z has yet to built a platform for our bed
25) Have you ever done anything illegal? Yes (wait, can that incriminate me?)
26) Have you ever been dumped? Oh, Yes
27) What's your GPA? don't have one2
8) How cool are you? on a scale of 1-10, I'm an 11!
29) Do you support abortion? I am pro-choice
30) What are you watching right now? the steam come off my coffee cup
31) Did you graduate high school?Yep
32) Do you wear the same clothes two days in a row? Not often
33) Have you ever driven someone crazy? I'm sure I have
34) Ever bullied someone? Unfortunately, yes.
35) Ever done the Macarena? Who hasn't?
36) Do you act your age? Only when I have to!
37) Is it okay to disrespect your parent? no, but it is okay to disagree!
38) Do you flush the toilet when you're done? at home, yes, in Oregon, no
39) How long do you stay in the shower? less than 10 minues
40) What kind of soap do you use? Dove bar
41) Are mullets cool? Only on Mandy
42) Spiderman, Batman, or Superman? Spiderman
43) Do you like your middle name? Yes, it's my sister's first name
44) Has anyone ever cheated on you? Yes
45) Who was the last person who called you? Dub
46) What's your favorite animal? elephant
47) Favorite color? blue
48) Have you ever shaved your head? no
49) For medical use, should weed be legal? yes
50) Do you think it is okay to drink and drive? NO
51) If you won 1 million dollars, what would you buy first? a turtle waffle cone at Bruster's!
52) Do you fear terrorism? yes
53) How many times have you been drunk? Too many to count
54) What's your favorite candle scent? discover
55) Do you use profanity? f*** yeah!
56) Who are the last people you talked to on MSN? AIM? YIM? not an IMer.
57) What is something you're annoyed with? my totally messy house
58) What woke you up this morning? My cat throwing up
59) What did you dream about last night? I don't remember
60) Ever been to the zoo? Yes, but the last day of school was Wednesday (heehee)
61) How many beers did you have today? YUCK! I don't drink beer!
62) What's the last movie watched? What to do in case of fire? (German w/subtitles, argh!)
63) Are you usually late or on time? on time
64) What's a cartoon you watch often? not a cartoon watcher
65) Do you have any imaginary friends? no
66) Are you waiting on something right now? Yes, my coffee to cool enough for me to drink it
67) What do you honestly look for in a girl/guy? Honesty
68) Who's ugly? mean people
69) Are you worried about something? Yes
70) Do you think anyone will read this about you? Yes, I think so
countdown
found this on lori's blog. thought it was cool, so here 'tis:
10 Firsts:
First Boyfriend: John
First Best Friend: Cathy -- we went to preschool and kindergarten together.
First Kiss: Ryan
First Piercing: My ears. (I was 5)
First Car: 1981 Red Toyota Corolla (inherited from my mom)
First love: John
First Stuffed Animal: ShopRite bear I stole from my Uncle Richie
First tried a cigarette: 8th grade
First Failed Class: Bio for Majors, my senior year of college, to fulfill my science requirement... brought it up to a C!
First MLB Game: Atlanta Braves
9 Lasts:
Last Alcoholic Beverage: Margarita last night
Last Kiss: Zach
Last Vacation: Disney World
Last phone call: Zach, on the way home from work
Last CD Played: my Indigo Girls mix CD
Last Bubble Bath: Tuesday night
Last Time You Cried: Tuesday night when my former students "graduated" from 5th grade
Last "I Love You": Zach
8 Have You Ever:
Have you ever dated a best friend: Yes, married him!
Have you ever skinny dipped: Yes
Have you ever been on tv: Yes (with my Girl Scout Troop in 7th grade and again when they aired the Teacher of the Year awards ceremony)
Have you ever kissed somebody and regretted it: Nope. Every kiss I've ever had has ... oh wait.... YES! Wow... forgot about that one!
Have you every had a sex dream about someone you know: Yeppers
Have you ever fallen in love: Yes
Have you ever lost someone you loved: Yes
Have you every been depressed: Yes
7 Places You've Been To:
New Jersey, Florida, Oregon, San Francisco, New Zealand, New York City, Memphis
6 Things You've Done Today:
packed my classroom, helped Stacy move stuff, listened to Esther talk about our school data, organized my student files, made dinner, took a nap
5 Favorite Things In Random Order:
my bed, chocolate, pajama pants, cuddling with my hubby, hot coffee
4 Things You Want To Do Before You Die:
See the Taj Mahal, skydive, fly a plane, earn an Ed.D.
3 Things You'll Do Tomorrow:
finish packing and moving my classroom, laugh with Sarah and Stacy, sleep!
2 Things You Want To Be (That You're Not Now):
a mom, a healthy weight
1 Thing You Are Now:
exhausted
10 Firsts:
First Boyfriend: John
First Best Friend: Cathy -- we went to preschool and kindergarten together.
First Kiss: Ryan
First Piercing: My ears. (I was 5)
First Car: 1981 Red Toyota Corolla (inherited from my mom)
First love: John
First Stuffed Animal: ShopRite bear I stole from my Uncle Richie
First tried a cigarette: 8th grade
First Failed Class: Bio for Majors, my senior year of college, to fulfill my science requirement... brought it up to a C!
First MLB Game: Atlanta Braves
9 Lasts:
Last Alcoholic Beverage: Margarita last night
Last Kiss: Zach
Last Vacation: Disney World
Last phone call: Zach, on the way home from work
Last CD Played: my Indigo Girls mix CD
Last Bubble Bath: Tuesday night
Last Time You Cried: Tuesday night when my former students "graduated" from 5th grade
Last "I Love You": Zach
8 Have You Ever:
Have you ever dated a best friend: Yes, married him!
Have you ever skinny dipped: Yes
Have you ever been on tv: Yes (with my Girl Scout Troop in 7th grade and again when they aired the Teacher of the Year awards ceremony)
Have you ever kissed somebody and regretted it: Nope. Every kiss I've ever had has ... oh wait.... YES! Wow... forgot about that one!
Have you every had a sex dream about someone you know: Yeppers
Have you ever fallen in love: Yes
Have you ever lost someone you loved: Yes
Have you every been depressed: Yes
7 Places You've Been To:
New Jersey, Florida, Oregon, San Francisco, New Zealand, New York City, Memphis
6 Things You've Done Today:
packed my classroom, helped Stacy move stuff, listened to Esther talk about our school data, organized my student files, made dinner, took a nap
5 Favorite Things In Random Order:
my bed, chocolate, pajama pants, cuddling with my hubby, hot coffee
4 Things You Want To Do Before You Die:
See the Taj Mahal, skydive, fly a plane, earn an Ed.D.
3 Things You'll Do Tomorrow:
finish packing and moving my classroom, laugh with Sarah and Stacy, sleep!
2 Things You Want To Be (That You're Not Now):
a mom, a healthy weight
1 Thing You Are Now:
exhausted
2Peas Monday challenge... a bit early
Fave coffee: Caramel Frappucino
Fave tea: Sleepytime (chamomile and spearmint)
Fave jam: blackberry
Fave Peanut Butter: crunchy Jif
Fave sandwich: any 1/2 sandwich from the Publix deli, as long as it has White American Cheese
Fave fast food item: McDonald's fries
Fave appetizer: Fried zucchini at Maggiano's
Fave summertime drink: Strawberry daquari
Fave fruit: apples, watermelon, grapes
Fave vegetable: broccoli
Fave indulgence: ice cream -- especially Turtle from Bruster's
Fave tea: Sleepytime (chamomile and spearmint)
Fave jam: blackberry
Fave Peanut Butter: crunchy Jif
Fave sandwich: any 1/2 sandwich from the Publix deli, as long as it has White American Cheese
Fave fast food item: McDonald's fries
Fave appetizer: Fried zucchini at Maggiano's
Fave summertime drink: Strawberry daquari
Fave fruit: apples, watermelon, grapes
Fave vegetable: broccoli
Fave indulgence: ice cream -- especially Turtle from Bruster's
love at first sight
Sooooo, Mandy and I decided to have a girls' afternoon. She's settling into her apartment, so I just wanted to hang out and see how things are going. Without any BIG plans in mind, we decided to go for lunch then to check out pet adoptions at the local PetSmart.
Mandy had her heart set on a dog. A small dog like a poodle or a bichon frise. Alas and alack, there were no small dogs for adoption at the PetSmart. In fact, there were only just a couple of cats.
So, there I go, opening my big mouth -- I wonder where the Humane Society is? Yeah... 10 minutes later we were pulling into the parking lot. 15 minutes later we were checking out the puppies and adult dogs they had available for adoption. 30 minutes later we realized that there weren't any small dogs... all of the puppies were going to grow into large dogs or into chihuahuas (we're not sure which is worse.)
Well, let's just look at the cats, I suggested. Just a small suggestion. I wanted to see the purr babies and perhaps play with a kitten or two before we headed out for the rest of the afternoon.
BIG MISTAKE! Not too sure what Dr. G is going to do now... she has fallen in love with a 2 month old black kitten named Gadget. He is too precious. He cuddled and played and stole her heart. He's currently on hold for her. Tomorrow, a decision. I have a feeling that Inspector Gadget is going to be a new member of the family.
So much for getting a dog...
I've been tagged!
FOUR JOBS YOU HAVE HAD IN YOUR LIFE
1. Bill collector/Skip tracer
2. Personal assistant to a writer
3. Daycare worker
4. Teacher
FOUR MOVIES YOU WOULD WATCH OVER AND OVER
1. Say Anything
2. The Princess Bride
3. Singin' in the Rain
4. Big
FOUR PLACES YOU HAVE LIVED
1. Stone Mountain, GA
2. Loganville, GA
3. Auckland, New Zealand (okay, it was only 2 months, but I had a job and I paid rent.)
4. Lilburn, GA
FOUR TV SHOWS YOU LIKE TO WATCH
1. House
2. Good Eats
3. American Idol
4. ????????
FOUR PLACES YOU HAVE BEEN ON VACATION
1. Myrtle Beach
2. Disney World
3. Oregon
4. Savannah, GA
FOUR WEBSITES YOU VISIT DAILY
1. two peas in a bucket
2. CKU-A Atlanta
3. comcast
4. ???????
FOUR FAVORITE FOODS
1. anything mexican
2. pesto
3. chocolate
4. ice cream
FOUR PLACES YOU WOULD RATHER BE RIGHT NOW
1. asleep in my bed
2. Eugene, Oregon
3. Bay of Islands, New Zealand
4. Destin, FL
FOUR FAVORITE BOOKS (it's hard to pick just 4!)
1. The Giver by Lois Lowry
2. Skippyjon Jones by Judy Schachner
3. Harry Potter series
4. The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood
1. Bill collector/Skip tracer
2. Personal assistant to a writer
3. Daycare worker
4. Teacher
FOUR MOVIES YOU WOULD WATCH OVER AND OVER
1. Say Anything
2. The Princess Bride
3. Singin' in the Rain
4. Big
FOUR PLACES YOU HAVE LIVED
1. Stone Mountain, GA
2. Loganville, GA
3. Auckland, New Zealand (okay, it was only 2 months, but I had a job and I paid rent.)
4. Lilburn, GA
FOUR TV SHOWS YOU LIKE TO WATCH
1. House
2. Good Eats
3. American Idol
4. ????????
FOUR PLACES YOU HAVE BEEN ON VACATION
1. Myrtle Beach
2. Disney World
3. Oregon
4. Savannah, GA
FOUR WEBSITES YOU VISIT DAILY
1. two peas in a bucket
2. CKU-A Atlanta
3. comcast
4. ???????
FOUR FAVORITE FOODS
1. anything mexican
2. pesto
3. chocolate
4. ice cream
FOUR PLACES YOU WOULD RATHER BE RIGHT NOW
1. asleep in my bed
2. Eugene, Oregon
3. Bay of Islands, New Zealand
4. Destin, FL
FOUR FAVORITE BOOKS (it's hard to pick just 4!)
1. The Giver by Lois Lowry
2. Skippyjon Jones by Judy Schachner
3. Harry Potter series
4. The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood
My husband is my hero!
Zach sat down and recovered the pictures from my trip to Disney.
He RULES!
Here are some of my favorites:
He RULES!
Here are some of my favorites:
Mom and me with the kids on Main Street U.S.A.
Melissa and the kids with "Polka Dot Princess" (according to Rachel, who just happens to be squeezing Minnie's nose, too.)
It was a fun, fun trip, and I am OVERJOYED that Zach was able to save my pictures!
Back from the Happiest Place on Earth!
What a great time I had hanging with the fam'. I wasn't sure what to expect... staying with the 5 kids, Marc & Melissa, and my Mom. Fortunately, I was pleasantly surprised. Andy stuck to me like glue for the entire week. I got to know the twins and Rachel better. I got some quality time with Kristina, too. They are such fun kids... but I still want to know... how did my brother end up with 5 effin' kids????? By Thursday, I was EXHAUSTED! After a dip in the pool, I went up to my room to stretch out before dinner... make that breakfast! By the third time someone came to my room to wake me, I mumbled something about wanting to sleep, rolled over, and passed out for the night.
My xD card has decided to bite the dust, and we can't seem to recover pictures. I hope that we figure it out because I took a TON of AWESOME pictures, and I don't want them lost and gone forever. I hope Zach can figure it out.
I guess it's back to reality now. Back to work. Fortunately, it's only a 4 day week. Friday, pre-Easter, is a school holiday. Thank goodness!
My xD card has decided to bite the dust, and we can't seem to recover pictures. I hope that we figure it out because I took a TON of AWESOME pictures, and I don't want them lost and gone forever. I hope Zach can figure it out.
I guess it's back to reality now. Back to work. Fortunately, it's only a 4 day week. Friday, pre-Easter, is a school holiday. Thank goodness!
last one for today... promise!
Found this fun meme on Marianne's blog... thought I'd try it!
You say, I think...
1. Glass castle: Jeannette Walls -- reading her book right now
2. Preserved: older women my mom would always say looked "well preserved."
3. Jealousy: That song... by??? "Hey Jealousy"
4. Territory: Canada, Northwest
5. Coffee: my childhood best friend's mother would say in her British accent, "You fuh coffee?" when asking if you wanted some coffee.
6. Stephen: Sondheim
7. Slut: tramp, whore
8. Dynamic:For some reason, "The Ambiguously Gay Duo!" came into my head.
9. Daybreak: "Mine is the sunlight, Mine is the morning..." the song "Morning Has Broken"
10. Dew: Mountain Dew
You say, I think...
1. Glass castle: Jeannette Walls -- reading her book right now
2. Preserved: older women my mom would always say looked "well preserved."
3. Jealousy: That song... by??? "Hey Jealousy"
4. Territory: Canada, Northwest
5. Coffee: my childhood best friend's mother would say in her British accent, "You fuh coffee?" when asking if you wanted some coffee.
6. Stephen: Sondheim
7. Slut: tramp, whore
8. Dynamic:For some reason, "The Ambiguously Gay Duo!" came into my head.
9. Daybreak: "Mine is the sunlight, Mine is the morning..." the song "Morning Has Broken"
10. Dew: Mountain Dew
WATCH OUT ORLANDO...
HERE I COME!
Tomorrow Mom and I head down to WDW -- the happiest place on Earth. We spend a week with M&M and the kids (all *5* of them) playing with Mickey and his friends. I can't wait! Disney is my most favorite place in the lower 48. Can't wait to ride the rides and hug the characters and watch the kids' faces. Shannon, Eddie, and Rachel have never been! I feel so lucky to be part of their first visit!
Best Friends
Mandy, Chance, and Billy chillin on the couch last night.
What would life be like without them? Pretty boring! I just LOVE these people (fur people included). It's always so great to just sit and talk... have some time together to reconnect, laugh, and share life stories. Add dinner, some drinks and 40 mini-chocolate chip cookies -- and you have the perfect night! In the proverbial words of Billy, "If these cookies are wrong, then I don't want to be right!" Love that guy!
Zach's Birthday Weekend
We had such a great time in Cloudland Canyon State Park, camping and celebrating Zach's 29th birthday. In 10 years, we have never camped alone together. This year, for my birthday, Zach bought me a tent. So, now we have no excuse! This trip was lots of fun, except for the freezing rain on Sunday morning. Kharma loved being able to run around -- she loves to go on hikes!
Some highlights:
Kharma, enjoying her hike
Zach and me in front of the waterfall
The waterfall at the bottom of the canyon.
Our Saturday night campfireI think we did pretty well for our first trip out. We didn't forget anything too important... except that I forgot to pack underwear! Ridiculous! Fortunately, I was able to wash the pair I brought in the shower room. Then I let them dry by the fire. I didn't do too badly "roughing it." And, surprisingly, I can't wait to go again!
Such a fun night!
I love, love, love my family. It is amazing to me how people come into our lives and they become family. Regardless of who your parents are or what your last name is, we are family.
We celebrated Zach's 29th birthday last night with M&M and the kids, Mom & Dad, and Billy & Mandy. My family. These people that make me feel good to be alive, where I know it is safe to be me, where I am at home.
I think the best way to sum all of it up is in pictures. Enjoy!
We celebrated Zach's 29th birthday last night with M&M and the kids, Mom & Dad, and Billy & Mandy. My family. These people that make me feel good to be alive, where I know it is safe to be me, where I am at home.
I think the best way to sum all of it up is in pictures. Enjoy!
Zach and Andy playing on the Gameboy. Andy relishes this time with Zach -- in his eyes, the video game guru.
Mandy hangin' with Rachel... or, perhaps it's the other way around... I love that smile on Rachel's face!
Melissa and Kristina... enjoying some cake.
Mom, explaining something VERY important, I'm sure... she's recently lost like 30 pounds. She looks amazing!
Shannon chillin' on my lap. She's a total snuggle bug... sometimes to the point of being extremely annoying. But, being the doting aunt I am, I indulge.
It's too bad that Eddie wasn't there to join us. He was hanging with his other Grandma and his cousin last night. It's weird only having pictures of 4 of the 5 kids. Oh well... maybe next time.
The Moose
I just had to share this picture of Xerxes. Somehow, Zach and I started called him "Moosey" -- probably because, at the time, he was a total fat-ass! Most everyone else, including his favorite Aunt, calls him Xerxs (pronunced Zerks).
This is so typical of him -- the king on the arm of the couch... just chillin' on a Sunday morning.
The flowers are in bloom!
I can't believe that Spring is here! It is only the second weekend in March, and Spring has come to Atlanta FULL ON! Zach got some great pictures of our camellia and crocuses. The tulips are starting to sprout as well as the bearded iris. This is the first year that we've planted flowers. In the past it's just been bushes and vines. I'm so excited to have flowers adorning the front of my house!!
I can't wait for the iris and tulips! Wait, didn't I already say that? It's true! I'm soooo excited!
I can't wait for the iris and tulips! Wait, didn't I already say that? It's true! I'm soooo excited!
Back from NYC
I had such a great time in NYC!!! I was a bit worried about spending so much time with two of my co-workers -- we haven't always gotten along so well -- but it all seemed to work out!
I was up there for 7 days for a Teachers' College/Columbia University Mini-Institute on Reading Workshop. Esther paid for us to stay over the weekend so that we could visit a school on Monday. It was COLD! But we had fun, anyway.
Trip highlights:
1. Lucy Calkins' keynote on day one: I still squeak when I first see her.
2. Finally getting down to business with those coworkers -- and seeing that we all have the end in mind, we are just coming from different perspectives.
3. Getting the chance to see Lyn and the girls. I miss them!
4. Shopping on Canal Street -- I am the QUEEN of bargaining! I got my Coach-ish purse for only $20... already have had a bunch of comments on how cute it is.
5. Seeing The Lion King. Such fun! WOW! Sat in Row N on the aisle, so I felt like I was in the middle of the action. The guy who played Simba was one HOTTIE!
6. Hanging with Pam. She is the coolest 60 year old I know!
7. Subway riding. OY! It was great... and crowded... and fun... and crowded!
8. Lunch in Little Italy. 'Nuff Said.
9. Madame Tussaud's Wax Museum w/Tamika. SOOOO much fun!
10. The Empire State Building. Even though it was butt-ASS cold outside, we did go onto the Observation Deck. Amazing Views.
11. Tequila shots with the girls.
12. Coming home... warm weather, zach, my bed!
Some pictures:
I was up there for 7 days for a Teachers' College/Columbia University Mini-Institute on Reading Workshop. Esther paid for us to stay over the weekend so that we could visit a school on Monday. It was COLD! But we had fun, anyway.
Trip highlights:
1. Lucy Calkins' keynote on day one: I still squeak when I first see her.
2. Finally getting down to business with those coworkers -- and seeing that we all have the end in mind, we are just coming from different perspectives.
3. Getting the chance to see Lyn and the girls. I miss them!
4. Shopping on Canal Street -- I am the QUEEN of bargaining! I got my Coach-ish purse for only $20... already have had a bunch of comments on how cute it is.
5. Seeing The Lion King. Such fun! WOW! Sat in Row N on the aisle, so I felt like I was in the middle of the action. The guy who played Simba was one HOTTIE!
6. Hanging with Pam. She is the coolest 60 year old I know!
7. Subway riding. OY! It was great... and crowded... and fun... and crowded!
8. Lunch in Little Italy. 'Nuff Said.
9. Madame Tussaud's Wax Museum w/Tamika. SOOOO much fun!
10. The Empire State Building. Even though it was butt-ASS cold outside, we did go onto the Observation Deck. Amazing Views.
11. Tequila shots with the girls.
12. Coming home... warm weather, zach, my bed!
Some pictures:
Our Morning Stop and lunch in Little Italy
Madame Tussaud's
Lyn and me at the top of the Empire State Building...
and my really cute Coach-ish bag.
Did I mention that it was COLD???
Back in the Saddle Again
So, I've been really bad about blogging as of late. It seems I've been really bad about a lot of things: cleaning my house, keeping in touch with my family, watching what I eat.
In the spirit of perfectionism, I am back to it... going to make it better this time.
Here is the challenge from burberrygirl on 2peas:
What would you do if you won a million dollars? pay off debt -- mine and my family's then set up a scholarship fund for my students
What would you do if you have no children? (for those who doesn't, just think reverse) I'm looking forward to having children -- I can't wait! It is going to be life changing. I guess, I would work part time and do all I could to make the child's life the best possible.
What would you do if you are the president of the United States? reform education
What would you do if you skip a meal? not sure about this one...
What would you do if you are in your ideal weight? (let's face it, who ever is?) when I get there, I am going to have my bellybutton pierced
What would you do if you could meet anyone you want and who would that be? this is really quite un-profound, but I want to meet Ben Folds and just hang out, talk, and make music with him
What would you do if you are famous? provide an excellent role model for children
What would you do if you are a "scrapbooking celebrity"? travel the world
What would you do if you could change anything in the world? find a new president, thus ending the war in Iraq and the war at home in the wake of Katrina
What would you do if you don't scrapbook? read a lot more and write a book
In the spirit of perfectionism, I am back to it... going to make it better this time.
Here is the challenge from burberrygirl on 2peas:
What would you do if you won a million dollars? pay off debt -- mine and my family's then set up a scholarship fund for my students
What would you do if you have no children? (for those who doesn't, just think reverse) I'm looking forward to having children -- I can't wait! It is going to be life changing. I guess, I would work part time and do all I could to make the child's life the best possible.
What would you do if you are the president of the United States? reform education
What would you do if you skip a meal? not sure about this one...
What would you do if you are in your ideal weight? (let's face it, who ever is?) when I get there, I am going to have my bellybutton pierced
What would you do if you could meet anyone you want and who would that be? this is really quite un-profound, but I want to meet Ben Folds and just hang out, talk, and make music with him
What would you do if you are famous? provide an excellent role model for children
What would you do if you are a "scrapbooking celebrity"? travel the world
What would you do if you could change anything in the world? find a new president, thus ending the war in Iraq and the war at home in the wake of Katrina
What would you do if you don't scrapbook? read a lot more and write a book
What does your family do that you won't?
I find myself asking this question more and more lately. Two incidents have brought it up again:
1. My 10-year-old niece was caught signing her mother's name to a failing paper sent home by the teacher.
2. My 6-year-old niece and nephew (adopted, not twins) were kicked out of swimming lessons because they misbehaved and stirred up the whole class. Kicked out. Not just asked to sit by the side of the pool or leave for the day. Kicked out. Permanently.
Here's that question again: What have my brother and sister done to raise their children that I will not do? How will I do things differently?
So far my answers include, but are not limited to:
1. Limit TV time. There will be a TV in my house, but it will not be on all the time, nor will it be the video babysitter. We will not have cable. I said as much to my sister, and her statement was, "But I like my music." Buy an ipod. Get Sirius. Then, get serious!
2. My children will not get everything they ask for. Heck, they might even have to -- get this -- WORK a little bit before getting it. I have never seen so many children with so much. All 7 of my nieces and nephews have everything they want. They ask. They receive. I wish my life was so easy!
3. I will not question my husband in front of my children. Both sets of parents do this -- talk about damaging to their children. Then the kids think THEY can question their parents or that one parent has more control than the other. If we don't present a united front and act as a team, raising the children together is pointless. We may as well live in different houses in different states and share the children by the week.
4. My children will know that their father is the most important person in my life. I have seen this with my siblings, and more recently a close friend. As soon as children came along, their partner became second fiddle. I'm sorry, but I always knew that my mother was #1 to my father. I felt loved. I felt safe. But I was not the most important person in my parents' lives. The universe did not revolve around me. I grew up to be a normal, well adjusted human being. My children will, too.
In some ways, I hate it that I have to watch my brother and sister raise their children, but in other ways, it is good for me. Zach and I can really decide what we want to do and try it out. Learn from the mistakes of those who have gone before us.
And, in case you're wondering, I DO have baby fever! Just a few more months and several more pounds, and we can begin thinking about it!
1. My 10-year-old niece was caught signing her mother's name to a failing paper sent home by the teacher.
2. My 6-year-old niece and nephew (adopted, not twins) were kicked out of swimming lessons because they misbehaved and stirred up the whole class. Kicked out. Not just asked to sit by the side of the pool or leave for the day. Kicked out. Permanently.
Here's that question again: What have my brother and sister done to raise their children that I will not do? How will I do things differently?
So far my answers include, but are not limited to:
1. Limit TV time. There will be a TV in my house, but it will not be on all the time, nor will it be the video babysitter. We will not have cable. I said as much to my sister, and her statement was, "But I like my music." Buy an ipod. Get Sirius. Then, get serious!
2. My children will not get everything they ask for. Heck, they might even have to -- get this -- WORK a little bit before getting it. I have never seen so many children with so much. All 7 of my nieces and nephews have everything they want. They ask. They receive. I wish my life was so easy!
3. I will not question my husband in front of my children. Both sets of parents do this -- talk about damaging to their children. Then the kids think THEY can question their parents or that one parent has more control than the other. If we don't present a united front and act as a team, raising the children together is pointless. We may as well live in different houses in different states and share the children by the week.
4. My children will know that their father is the most important person in my life. I have seen this with my siblings, and more recently a close friend. As soon as children came along, their partner became second fiddle. I'm sorry, but I always knew that my mother was #1 to my father. I felt loved. I felt safe. But I was not the most important person in my parents' lives. The universe did not revolve around me. I grew up to be a normal, well adjusted human being. My children will, too.
In some ways, I hate it that I have to watch my brother and sister raise their children, but in other ways, it is good for me. Zach and I can really decide what we want to do and try it out. Learn from the mistakes of those who have gone before us.
And, in case you're wondering, I DO have baby fever! Just a few more months and several more pounds, and we can begin thinking about it!
James Frey on Oprah
"I don't think it is a novel," Frey said of his book, which had initially been offered to publishers, and rejected by many, as fiction. "I still think it's a memoir." --ABC News
Wow. I was so moved by this book. Correction. I am moved by this book. I have recommended it to many people. I picked it up because it made such an impact on Mandy. She and I raved about it so much that Zach wants to read it. I gave it to my mother-in-law to read. It was that powerful.
So, what do I think about this "controversy?" Well, this is what I teach my students: Writers sometimes make things up to make their stories more interesting. When I am writing dialogue, I don't always remember the exact words that I said or that were said to me. I may not always get it in the right order, but it's my memory and my story -- that's what is most important.
A Million Little Pieces was not touted as an autobiography. Frey and the publishing house called it a Memoir. It is Frey's memory of what happened to him in the days leading up to, during, and after his recovery. The man was on how many different kinds of drugs and addicted to alcohol! How could all of his memories be completely accurate?
In truth, I'm disappointed in Oprah for the way she handled the negative press. Make a statement. Be done. Don't call the man on to your show and then make an ass out of him on national television. The poor man sat there like a child answering to an angry parent. Yes, Oprah has a right to be angry. But the way she handled it was just a bit much for me. Please. It's a book. It's not her entire career.
I will continue to argue this point: if the book touched you, if it made you think or see things in a new light then it did its job. Novacain, weeks in jail, and the manner in which Lilly committed suicide are small details compared to the mountain that Frey overcame.
I still love the book. I still recommend it.
in-FLU-en-za
This sucks!
<----- This is the flu virus.
Yes, I have the flu. No, I didn't get a flu shot. Yes, I feel dumb. No, it wasn't a very smart idea.
But, here I am. Currently it's 3:45 A.M., and I am awake. Wide awake. I went to the doctor on Wednesday A.M. with a fever of 100.1, chills, and aches all over. My nose hasn't stopped running.
Have you ever had a flu swab? Not a pleasant experience. The tech came in (after the doctor informed me that I would need one) with a long cotton swab like the ones they use for strep tests. Here I'm thinking -- this is easy -- just open up and say aah! So, I asked, "throat?" Her answer, "No. I have to swab your nose." Okay, I'm thinking, a little swipe around the nose, not biggy. Yeah. She didn't say she'd be scraping my sinuses! Alright, it wasn't that bad, but it was pretty heinous. I kept moving my head back as the swab protruded further. Stop moving! she said. Yeah, let me put this thing up your nose until your eyes water and then tell YOU to stop moving.
Soooooo, here I am, out of work until Monday. This is a really bad thing. My poor student teacher, Suzanne, is busy working her butt off --- and not really ready to take over the class. My students are total jerks when I'm not there -- typical, but wrong. And there is sooooo much that needs to get done! On top of all that, I've already missed 2 and 1/2 days this month. WAY not cool.
I guess I'm going to just stick it out. Take my medicine. Eat soup. Drink juice. And use this time to lose more weight.
<----- This is the flu virus.Yes, I have the flu. No, I didn't get a flu shot. Yes, I feel dumb. No, it wasn't a very smart idea.
But, here I am. Currently it's 3:45 A.M., and I am awake. Wide awake. I went to the doctor on Wednesday A.M. with a fever of 100.1, chills, and aches all over. My nose hasn't stopped running.
Have you ever had a flu swab? Not a pleasant experience. The tech came in (after the doctor informed me that I would need one) with a long cotton swab like the ones they use for strep tests. Here I'm thinking -- this is easy -- just open up and say aah! So, I asked, "throat?" Her answer, "No. I have to swab your nose." Okay, I'm thinking, a little swipe around the nose, not biggy. Yeah. She didn't say she'd be scraping my sinuses! Alright, it wasn't that bad, but it was pretty heinous. I kept moving my head back as the swab protruded further. Stop moving! she said. Yeah, let me put this thing up your nose until your eyes water and then tell YOU to stop moving.
Soooooo, here I am, out of work until Monday. This is a really bad thing. My poor student teacher, Suzanne, is busy working her butt off --- and not really ready to take over the class. My students are total jerks when I'm not there -- typical, but wrong. And there is sooooo much that needs to get done! On top of all that, I've already missed 2 and 1/2 days this month. WAY not cool.
I guess I'm going to just stick it out. Take my medicine. Eat soup. Drink juice. And use this time to lose more weight.
Hugh Laurie in February's Oprah and Books...
Okay. I'll admit it. I'm addicted to House. I LOVE Hugh Laurie. He's handsome and funny and has a great American accent... though I prefer his real accent any day.
So, you can imagine my excitement when I saw that February's issue of Oprah featured "Books that Made a Difference to Hugh Laurie." As I was reading his comments, this really struck me:
...Then there are the books that shine in my memory, milestones along the horizontal course of my life. I remember not just the books themselves, but the chair that I sat in, the shoes I wore, the woman I loved, what song was on the charts at the time. None of which makes them good books, exactly, although all of them are -- it just means that they are mine. They really happened.
Amazing. This statement speaks to me on so many levels... first, my own love of books and the places that they take me. Sitting on my sister's lap, reading The Night Before Christmas. Talking with my friend, Chrissie, in 6th grade about Homecoming and Dicey's Song. Sitting on the bay in Auckland, reading the His Dark Materials series. The breakfast at Mel and Todd's when we talked about The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Nighttime. It's amazing how books take me back. Wayne's screaming sarcasm as we discussed The Time Traveler's Wife. Defining moments. Memories. Steps along the "horizontal course of life."
And now, this is what I want to give my students. I want them to remember the first time we read Skippyjon Jones. I want them to feel what Tomie felt as we read The Art Lesson and what Trisha felt when we read Thank You, Mr. Falker. Books hold so much more than characters and plot.
It's a love affair I just can't shake.
So, you can imagine my excitement when I saw that February's issue of Oprah featured "Books that Made a Difference to Hugh Laurie." As I was reading his comments, this really struck me:
...Then there are the books that shine in my memory, milestones along the horizontal course of my life. I remember not just the books themselves, but the chair that I sat in, the shoes I wore, the woman I loved, what song was on the charts at the time. None of which makes them good books, exactly, although all of them are -- it just means that they are mine. They really happened.
Amazing. This statement speaks to me on so many levels... first, my own love of books and the places that they take me. Sitting on my sister's lap, reading The Night Before Christmas. Talking with my friend, Chrissie, in 6th grade about Homecoming and Dicey's Song. Sitting on the bay in Auckland, reading the His Dark Materials series. The breakfast at Mel and Todd's when we talked about The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Nighttime. It's amazing how books take me back. Wayne's screaming sarcasm as we discussed The Time Traveler's Wife. Defining moments. Memories. Steps along the "horizontal course of life."
And now, this is what I want to give my students. I want them to remember the first time we read Skippyjon Jones. I want them to feel what Tomie felt as we read The Art Lesson and what Trisha felt when we read Thank You, Mr. Falker. Books hold so much more than characters and plot.
It's a love affair I just can't shake.
Another Meme challenge from 2Peas
List 10 things that bring you comfort:
1. being wrapped in a hug from Zach
2. my pillow
3. Luna purring in my ear at night
4. the smell of my mom
5. pajama pants
6. warm socks
7. the afghan zach's mom made for us
8. conversations with Mandy
9. dinner with my family (parents, brothers, sisters, nieces & nephews)
10. chocolate (although I'm really trying to break this one!)
1. being wrapped in a hug from Zach
2. my pillow
3. Luna purring in my ear at night
4. the smell of my mom
5. pajama pants
6. warm socks
7. the afghan zach's mom made for us
8. conversations with Mandy
9. dinner with my family (parents, brothers, sisters, nieces & nephews)
10. chocolate (although I'm really trying to break this one!)
I am the happiest woman alive!
Yesterday, Zach put in the new dishwasher! I have been hand-washing our dishes since before Christmas. Yes, I know that there are worse things in life, but it makes me so very happy that we now have a dishwasher. I'm an insanely busy person, and the dishwasher is just one convenience item that I cannot live without.
2Peas Meme Challenge: Rejecting Perfection
What a great idea! Growing up, I felt I had to do everything perfectly. Yet, I was so incredibly IMperfect.
So, here are my five... If I didn't have to do it perfectly, I'd try:
1. auditioning for a musical
2. sewing a quilt
3. ice skating
4. baking and decorating a wedding cake
5. professional photography
So, here are my five... If I didn't have to do it perfectly, I'd try:
1. auditioning for a musical
2. sewing a quilt
3. ice skating
4. baking and decorating a wedding cake
5. professional photography
A Very Kharma Christmas
I know that these are a bit late, but I finally downloaded them from the camera. Here are some fun pics of my baby girl opening her Christmas present from her Oregon "grandparents." This is only her second Christmas, so she's still learning how to open her gifts. She did a great job!
TOES!!!!
As part of my M.S. completion celebration, I went for a manicure and pedicure. There is nothing better than sitting for an hour while two women pamper you with lotions and massages. The best part was the cool design on my toes -- snowflakes! Here is closer, albeit worse, picture of one of my groovy snowflakes:
Since it's ASS cold outside... and the middle of winter, I will be the only person to truly enjoy my fun little snowflakes. But, it makes me happy just to know they're there.
For those foot-phobics out there, I apologize for this post. But I had to share.
Reasons I LOVE Sunday
Sunday Mornings
It's Sunday morning, just before 9AM. This is my favorite time of week. Why?
1. Zach sleeps in and I get time to slowly drink my cup of coffee, check email, watch the news, and catch up on some quiet "me" time.
2. The whole house is quiet. Kharma stays in bed with Zach, so she hasn't begun her lickfest yet.
3. I don't have to be anywhere or do anything anytime soon. I can totally take my time and face the day when I'm good and ready.
4. Xerxes and Luna (the cats) take turns visiting with me, sitting in my lap, and relaxing -- this is NOT something they normally do. It's like they've decided this is "Mommy time."
5. It's the beginning of a new week -- a clean slate -- I can start fresh and begin again.
Just amazing.
Last night...
I had a HUGE disappointment last night. Since I finished my MS (praise to Allah!), Mandy, Zach, and I were going out for a fun dinner before Billy's show at Smith's. So, here I am, ready to take a carb blocker and enjoy some yummy food... We pick up Mandy, and she's excited, too -- we're going to Bridgetown Grill. Now, if you've never been to Bridgetown, you don't know what you're missing! They make all sorts of amazing Carribbean food -- my favorite is their jerk chicken over nachos with black bean and cheese soup. Delectable. So, I'm pumped. We're driving there. My mouth is watering. I'm thinking: nachos, soup, mangorita, nachos, soup, mangorita... and then... we get ready to see how packed it is before we park... and... IT'S CLOSED! Not closed for the night. Not closed for the weekend --- CLOSED. Permanently. Empty. Barren. Gone. (Cue the lonely cowboy whistle and tumbleweeds rolling by in the dust.) How could this happen???????? Needless to say, a very disappointed group of people continued right by the once warm and inviting restaurant and drove to Smith's. Where I ate a burger. Yay. (Can you sense my disappointment?)
But things got better...
Billy's show was awesome. We always enjoy seeing him play. And we got a real treat -- Heather Luttrell. So, long story short -- went to elementary school with the girl. Haven't seen her since. She hooked up with Lefty (the guy Billy plays with) and all 3 of them had a show together last night. She was AMAZING! I did not know the girl had pipes like that! It was effortless. She just opened her mouth and the music came out -- this strong, powerful, raspy yet sometimes quiet, melodic voice came out. It was like she wasn't even trying. I'm so jealous! I wish singing came that easily to me! I think I may rush out and buy her new album. Start my own cult following.
So, there it is. My beautiful Sunday morning.
It's Sunday morning, just before 9AM. This is my favorite time of week. Why?
1. Zach sleeps in and I get time to slowly drink my cup of coffee, check email, watch the news, and catch up on some quiet "me" time.
2. The whole house is quiet. Kharma stays in bed with Zach, so she hasn't begun her lickfest yet.
3. I don't have to be anywhere or do anything anytime soon. I can totally take my time and face the day when I'm good and ready.
4. Xerxes and Luna (the cats) take turns visiting with me, sitting in my lap, and relaxing -- this is NOT something they normally do. It's like they've decided this is "Mommy time."
5. It's the beginning of a new week -- a clean slate -- I can start fresh and begin again.
Just amazing.
Last night...
I had a HUGE disappointment last night. Since I finished my MS (praise to Allah!), Mandy, Zach, and I were going out for a fun dinner before Billy's show at Smith's. So, here I am, ready to take a carb blocker and enjoy some yummy food... We pick up Mandy, and she's excited, too -- we're going to Bridgetown Grill. Now, if you've never been to Bridgetown, you don't know what you're missing! They make all sorts of amazing Carribbean food -- my favorite is their jerk chicken over nachos with black bean and cheese soup. Delectable. So, I'm pumped. We're driving there. My mouth is watering. I'm thinking: nachos, soup, mangorita, nachos, soup, mangorita... and then... we get ready to see how packed it is before we park... and... IT'S CLOSED! Not closed for the night. Not closed for the weekend --- CLOSED. Permanently. Empty. Barren. Gone. (Cue the lonely cowboy whistle and tumbleweeds rolling by in the dust.) How could this happen???????? Needless to say, a very disappointed group of people continued right by the once warm and inviting restaurant and drove to Smith's. Where I ate a burger. Yay. (Can you sense my disappointment?)
But things got better...
Billy's show was awesome. We always enjoy seeing him play. And we got a real treat -- Heather Luttrell. So, long story short -- went to elementary school with the girl. Haven't seen her since. She hooked up with Lefty (the guy Billy plays with) and all 3 of them had a show together last night. She was AMAZING! I did not know the girl had pipes like that! It was effortless. She just opened her mouth and the music came out -- this strong, powerful, raspy yet sometimes quiet, melodic voice came out. It was like she wasn't even trying. I'm so jealous! I wish singing came that easily to me! I think I may rush out and buy her new album. Start my own cult following.
So, there it is. My beautiful Sunday morning.
Printing...
So, I'm printing. Sitting here, doing nothing... printing. I think this might take all night. Zach is watching some James Bond movie -- the one that Austin Powers seems to be mostly based on -- and here I sit.
The kids absolutely wore me out this week. I think part of my problem is that I now have 20 children and 1 adult student in my class. Not only am I catering to the needs of third grade learners, I now cater to the needs of a student teacher. I'm hoping that next week will be better because this damn portfolio will be done.
I've been reading other blogs, and I've decided that this one is decidedly boring. Why? I don't feel like I have much to say. It's good for me to write everyday, but there hasn't been much new going on. No funny quips from the kids, nothing exciting, really. And, I don't want to bore you with the silly details of the triumphs and tribulations of my kiddos' everyday lives.
I'm getting excited about the 2Peas Atlanta crop next weekend. Then, after that, I'm going to a Miss America party. Yes, Miss America. Laura and Julie thought up this whole idea last year. Mandy and I didn't go... can't really recall why, but this year I'm DEFNINITELY IN! Part of the party is to wear an evening gown and to perform a "talent." So, I've been thinking, what will my talent be? What state will I represent? I think I've come up with a winner: The state: New Jersey. The talent: BIG HAIR. Being that I'm originally from NJ, I thought this would be original... naturally, being from NJ, north Jersey in particular, it would only follow that I would have big hair, right? So, I guess I will work on my talent this week, and hopefully have it perfected by next week. I promise to post pictures!!!
Wow. Look at me. For not much to write about, I've sure put down a LOT.
Maybe I don't suck after all.... hehehehehehe...
The kids absolutely wore me out this week. I think part of my problem is that I now have 20 children and 1 adult student in my class. Not only am I catering to the needs of third grade learners, I now cater to the needs of a student teacher. I'm hoping that next week will be better because this damn portfolio will be done.
I've been reading other blogs, and I've decided that this one is decidedly boring. Why? I don't feel like I have much to say. It's good for me to write everyday, but there hasn't been much new going on. No funny quips from the kids, nothing exciting, really. And, I don't want to bore you with the silly details of the triumphs and tribulations of my kiddos' everyday lives.
I'm getting excited about the 2Peas Atlanta crop next weekend. Then, after that, I'm going to a Miss America party. Yes, Miss America. Laura and Julie thought up this whole idea last year. Mandy and I didn't go... can't really recall why, but this year I'm DEFNINITELY IN! Part of the party is to wear an evening gown and to perform a "talent." So, I've been thinking, what will my talent be? What state will I represent? I think I've come up with a winner: The state: New Jersey. The talent: BIG HAIR. Being that I'm originally from NJ, I thought this would be original... naturally, being from NJ, north Jersey in particular, it would only follow that I would have big hair, right? So, I guess I will work on my talent this week, and hopefully have it perfected by next week. I promise to post pictures!!!
Wow. Look at me. For not much to write about, I've sure put down a LOT.
Maybe I don't suck after all.... hehehehehehe...
The Final Countdown
Two Days to GO!!!
I can't believe it's finally getting here. I stayed after school today to finish my portfolio videos. After a week of learning how to use the Arabesk editing and DVD burning program, I am now an expert with two DVDs with production credit to my name. I even created a cool title screen with icons you can click on to get to the clips. I RULE!!!
So, right now, I'm gearing up for the final push. Tomorrow is finalizing and printing day. I have two assignments to finish up/write up tonight. I have the beginning essay to edit tomorrow. Then I print, compile, and mail!
In Other News...
The weight loss battle continues. I weighed in tonight, and I've lost more. The current total balance of weight GONE from my life is 8.25 pounds. Not bad, if you consider that over Christmas and New Year's I gained a pound. This means I lost it back... and then some! HOORAY!!
I'm planning to totally party on Saturday night at Billy's show. Many of the Book Club peeps are going to be there, and I've invited some pals from work along, too. With the new job announcement and finishing my MS, I think some SERIOUS partying must ensue. I just hope the alcoholic calories don't get the better of me. Perhaps I will fast on Sunday.
I think Zach is ready for dinner now... so, off I go!
I can't believe it's finally getting here. I stayed after school today to finish my portfolio videos. After a week of learning how to use the Arabesk editing and DVD burning program, I am now an expert with two DVDs with production credit to my name. I even created a cool title screen with icons you can click on to get to the clips. I RULE!!!
So, right now, I'm gearing up for the final push. Tomorrow is finalizing and printing day. I have two assignments to finish up/write up tonight. I have the beginning essay to edit tomorrow. Then I print, compile, and mail!
In Other News...
The weight loss battle continues. I weighed in tonight, and I've lost more. The current total balance of weight GONE from my life is 8.25 pounds. Not bad, if you consider that over Christmas and New Year's I gained a pound. This means I lost it back... and then some! HOORAY!!
I'm planning to totally party on Saturday night at Billy's show. Many of the Book Club peeps are going to be there, and I've invited some pals from work along, too. With the new job announcement and finishing my MS, I think some SERIOUS partying must ensue. I just hope the alcoholic calories don't get the better of me. Perhaps I will fast on Sunday.
I think Zach is ready for dinner now... so, off I go!
5 Days to Go!
I'm done with my Master's degree on Saturday!!!
Yes, I'm shouting it from the mountain tops! I am finishing up the teaching and videotaping, getting everything put together, and mailing that bitch out on Saturday morning. Then it will be par-tay, par-tay, par-tay!
On top of that, I was offered a new job today -- a job I've been drooling over for a month or so now... I am going to be a literacy support specialist for second and third grades! Hooray!!! This means that I get to go to New York for training at Columbia University in February and probably again in July. Can I just say that I LOVE my job!
On the flip side, I can't seem to shake this stomach thing. Melissa joked with me about pregnancy... I DON'T think so! But, it is very annoying to feel better then get sick at work this morning. My poor student teacher, Suzanne, gave me a look of horror when I said, "Could you get them ready for Writing Workshop while I go into the bathroom and throw up?" What a great way to start a morning! Especially on her first day in the classroom! Sheesh! Going to the doctor on Wednesday... hope I can find something out.
Speaking of going to the doctor...
What's up with doctors these days? I called and said, "I've been nauseous and throwing up (among other things) since last Wednesday, and I was wondering if someone could see me today or tomorrow morning." Yeah... the earliest they could get me in is Wednesday.... WEDNESDAY?!?!? Do you have to be on your death bed for them to fit you in for an emergency appointment??????? I guess they figured if it was that bad, I would go to the emergency room. BUT, if it isn't bad enough for the emergency room, aren't THEY supposed to see me? Isn't that the POINT of having a doctor to go to? I just don't get it.
Well, I'd better head upstairs and get ready for tomorrow and hit the sack. It's going to be another long one.
Yes, I'm shouting it from the mountain tops! I am finishing up the teaching and videotaping, getting everything put together, and mailing that bitch out on Saturday morning. Then it will be par-tay, par-tay, par-tay!
On top of that, I was offered a new job today -- a job I've been drooling over for a month or so now... I am going to be a literacy support specialist for second and third grades! Hooray!!! This means that I get to go to New York for training at Columbia University in February and probably again in July. Can I just say that I LOVE my job!
On the flip side, I can't seem to shake this stomach thing. Melissa joked with me about pregnancy... I DON'T think so! But, it is very annoying to feel better then get sick at work this morning. My poor student teacher, Suzanne, gave me a look of horror when I said, "Could you get them ready for Writing Workshop while I go into the bathroom and throw up?" What a great way to start a morning! Especially on her first day in the classroom! Sheesh! Going to the doctor on Wednesday... hope I can find something out.
Speaking of going to the doctor...
What's up with doctors these days? I called and said, "I've been nauseous and throwing up (among other things) since last Wednesday, and I was wondering if someone could see me today or tomorrow morning." Yeah... the earliest they could get me in is Wednesday.... WEDNESDAY?!?!? Do you have to be on your death bed for them to fit you in for an emergency appointment??????? I guess they figured if it was that bad, I would go to the emergency room. BUT, if it isn't bad enough for the emergency room, aren't THEY supposed to see me? Isn't that the POINT of having a doctor to go to? I just don't get it.
Well, I'd better head upstairs and get ready for tomorrow and hit the sack. It's going to be another long one.
Sick of Being Sick
Hello? (Do you hear the echo?)
Yeah... that's my incredibly empty stomach. Nothing will stay down. I'm OVER it! For two days my insides have been rejecting all that I attempt to put in. What is it that the Indigo Girls say: "We're better off for all that we let in..." ??? Yeah, well, I'm better off not putting anything in.
Probably the worst part of all this is writing sub plans. I never know who I'm going to get. I worry about my kids because they just can't handle a sub. They're too needy. And I know all their freakish quirks. And I have a high tolerance for their insanity. No one can do my job... not with these kids.
So, I mailed off the plans to Sarah and Sandy in the hopes that they make it into the hands of a capable human being. My anal retention went so far as to script the ENTIRE math lesson for tomorrow. YOY!
In better news... only a week until my Portfolio is due and my Master's is complete. I think I will use the time tomorrow to get all of the writing finished. Then I can do any last minute teaching and videotaping next week. I plan to have that baby in the mail first thing next Saturday morning. Then I am going to sleep. Okay, maybe not. I'll clean my house. Go for a walk. Actually DO some scrapping.
Alright. I'd better get to bed. But, before I do, I must share this adorable picture of DH and DFiL who made ravioli over Christmas. More on that later.
Yeah... that's my incredibly empty stomach. Nothing will stay down. I'm OVER it! For two days my insides have been rejecting all that I attempt to put in. What is it that the Indigo Girls say: "We're better off for all that we let in..." ??? Yeah, well, I'm better off not putting anything in.
Probably the worst part of all this is writing sub plans. I never know who I'm going to get. I worry about my kids because they just can't handle a sub. They're too needy. And I know all their freakish quirks. And I have a high tolerance for their insanity. No one can do my job... not with these kids.
So, I mailed off the plans to Sarah and Sandy in the hopes that they make it into the hands of a capable human being. My anal retention went so far as to script the ENTIRE math lesson for tomorrow. YOY!
In better news... only a week until my Portfolio is due and my Master's is complete. I think I will use the time tomorrow to get all of the writing finished. Then I can do any last minute teaching and videotaping next week. I plan to have that baby in the mail first thing next Saturday morning. Then I am going to sleep. Okay, maybe not. I'll clean my house. Go for a walk. Actually DO some scrapping.
Alright. I'd better get to bed. But, before I do, I must share this adorable picture of DH and DFiL who made ravioli over Christmas. More on that later.
When I said 6 miles...
I didn't realize that we would have to wait an hour to get in! My GAWD! After a nice, quiet, relaxing dinner, we headed to Lake Lanier for the Magical Nights of Lights. As I bragged, it is SIX MILES of holiday cheer. The drive up 85 to 985 was entirely uneventful. Quiet. Peaceful. Then the exit for Lake Lanier. Still quiet and uneventful. As we neared the entrance (or what I could guess was "nearing the entrance") the traffic started. One HOUR and two MILES later, we entered the park. Guess what time it was? Go ahead. Guess. 10:45!! (Here is where I don't mention the fact that Zach has to be at work at 7 the next morning...)
My final opinion: it was well worth it. Every freakin minute. Every freakin penny of the $25 it cost to get in. The lights were AMAZING!!! There were themes and animated lights and twinkling snowflakes... it was beautiful. I'm glad we went... it made up for our outing to Stone Mountain, where the lights have become all but nonexistent.
My poor Zachary ended up falling asleep on the way home. I hope he's doing okay today.
Mom and Andy and Kristina are coming over to make cookies today. I'm really excited! It'll be fun to get to hang out with them and do something creative at the same time.
And then, maybe a movie this PM with Mandy.
Did I mention I have a Master's degree portfolio I need to finish and mail in by January 15th? Yeah... I'll get to that at some point. Right now, I'm happy procrastinating!
My final opinion: it was well worth it. Every freakin minute. Every freakin penny of the $25 it cost to get in. The lights were AMAZING!!! There were themes and animated lights and twinkling snowflakes... it was beautiful. I'm glad we went... it made up for our outing to Stone Mountain, where the lights have become all but nonexistent.
My poor Zachary ended up falling asleep on the way home. I hope he's doing okay today.
Mom and Andy and Kristina are coming over to make cookies today. I'm really excited! It'll be fun to get to hang out with them and do something creative at the same time.
And then, maybe a movie this PM with Mandy.
Did I mention I have a Master's degree portfolio I need to finish and mail in by January 15th? Yeah... I'll get to that at some point. Right now, I'm happy procrastinating!
The New Look...
I totally freakin’ RULE!
I just spent probably much longer than I should have updating the look of my Blog. Yes, a bit ridiculous, but if I’m going to do this, I want it to look how I want it to look and I want to know how it works. I am not all that great at writing code, but I consider myself a pretty good problem solver, so here it is… the new look for my blog. I ROCK!
Last night was really great. We had dinner with Mandy and Billy, sort of a Christmas dinner for the four of us... before we all go to our respective "hometowns" for the holidays. I made salmon, which seemed to be a big hit... never too sure, salmon can be touchy. But it's Zach's mom's recipe, and I LOVE it, so I was sure I pretty much couldn't go wrong.
After a marathon 2 episodes of OZ, M&B headed home. Zach and I stayed up for another episode so that we could return the DVD to them on Thursday. We absolutely love that show! And I'm so glad we can get it thru NetFlix (ding! endorsement -- send me my check!) or I would never have seen it. Okay, Mandy deserves some thanks, too, because she is the one who put it in their queue.
Today, I've been soooo unproductive. As I said, I worked on the look of this thing. I drank a cup of coffee. Other than that, I've done NOTHING! I'm going to pick up Mom at 11ish for a haircut. I still haven't eaten breakfast or showered... YUCK! Today will be a fun day, though. After her haircut, we're going to weigh in together (I LOVE my new weight loss plan!) and then to lunch (seems a bit defeatist, no?) then for manicures and pedicures! I'm SOOOO looking forward to the relaxation. Hopefully we'll actually make it to Lake Lanier tonight to see the 6 miles (yes, count them... 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6!!! miles) of Christmas lights. See? I am getting into the Christmas Spirit!
Well, I guess I'd better get to it, or I'll never leave this chair.
Merry Solstice Everyone!
I just spent probably much longer than I should have updating the look of my Blog. Yes, a bit ridiculous, but if I’m going to do this, I want it to look how I want it to look and I want to know how it works. I am not all that great at writing code, but I consider myself a pretty good problem solver, so here it is… the new look for my blog. I ROCK!
Last night was really great. We had dinner with Mandy and Billy, sort of a Christmas dinner for the four of us... before we all go to our respective "hometowns" for the holidays. I made salmon, which seemed to be a big hit... never too sure, salmon can be touchy. But it's Zach's mom's recipe, and I LOVE it, so I was sure I pretty much couldn't go wrong.
After a marathon 2 episodes of OZ, M&B headed home. Zach and I stayed up for another episode so that we could return the DVD to them on Thursday. We absolutely love that show! And I'm so glad we can get it thru NetFlix (ding! endorsement -- send me my check!) or I would never have seen it. Okay, Mandy deserves some thanks, too, because she is the one who put it in their queue.
Today, I've been soooo unproductive. As I said, I worked on the look of this thing. I drank a cup of coffee. Other than that, I've done NOTHING! I'm going to pick up Mom at 11ish for a haircut. I still haven't eaten breakfast or showered... YUCK! Today will be a fun day, though. After her haircut, we're going to weigh in together (I LOVE my new weight loss plan!) and then to lunch (seems a bit defeatist, no?) then for manicures and pedicures! I'm SOOOO looking forward to the relaxation. Hopefully we'll actually make it to Lake Lanier tonight to see the 6 miles (yes, count them... 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6!!! miles) of Christmas lights. See? I am getting into the Christmas Spirit!
Well, I guess I'd better get to it, or I'll never leave this chair.
Merry Solstice Everyone!
The Christmas Spirit -- Where is it?
I just can't seem to get into this year... I've done all of my Christmas shopping, wrapped up the ones that have to go out of town and sent them, but I'm just not feeling it. We don't have a tree this year because we're going to Oregon to visit Zach's family. We don't have any decorations up. I've been listening to Christmas music, but I'm just not getting into it. I don't understand.
Perhaps when we get to Oregon (on Christmas Eve no less) I will feel more in the spirit of things.
Found out today that a dear friend of mine is not willing to see me this week because of a letter I wrote to her. In short, I told her my feelings and now she doesn't want to face it. I HATE it! It also sucks because I found all of this out from a mutual friend instead of directly from her. People, please! I feel like I'm back in middle school... "Well, she said that she thinks that you..." Just f*ing tell me yourself!
Mandy and I have this conversation a lot lately. We must give to the givers and stop giving to the takers. I think this other friend of mine might be a taker. Frankly, I'm running on empty. I give to my students everyday -- they are the neediest bunch of people you could ever meet. After spending time giving to the people I want to give to (my husband, my family, Mandy & Billy) I don't have anything left to give to someone who will only take. I need people who are willing to give back, dammit!
I guess I found the answer to my question, huh? Where is the Christmas Spirit? Being sucked in by a black hole of emotional need (not my own, mind you).
My resolve. I'm going to clean the house. I'm going to light holiday scented candles. I'm going to bake and sing at the top of my lungs to the Muppets Christmas album. I'm going to FIND Christmas, even if it kills me!
Perhaps when we get to Oregon (on Christmas Eve no less) I will feel more in the spirit of things.
Found out today that a dear friend of mine is not willing to see me this week because of a letter I wrote to her. In short, I told her my feelings and now she doesn't want to face it. I HATE it! It also sucks because I found all of this out from a mutual friend instead of directly from her. People, please! I feel like I'm back in middle school... "Well, she said that she thinks that you..." Just f*ing tell me yourself!
Mandy and I have this conversation a lot lately. We must give to the givers and stop giving to the takers. I think this other friend of mine might be a taker. Frankly, I'm running on empty. I give to my students everyday -- they are the neediest bunch of people you could ever meet. After spending time giving to the people I want to give to (my husband, my family, Mandy & Billy) I don't have anything left to give to someone who will only take. I need people who are willing to give back, dammit!
I guess I found the answer to my question, huh? Where is the Christmas Spirit? Being sucked in by a black hole of emotional need (not my own, mind you).
My resolve. I'm going to clean the house. I'm going to light holiday scented candles. I'm going to bake and sing at the top of my lungs to the Muppets Christmas album. I'm going to FIND Christmas, even if it kills me!
This is last year's tree... oh how I miss it!
2 Months Later...
Halloween 2005... scary, eh? So, this is ridiculous. I haven't updated since October... life has been insane! I really need to get back into the habit of getting on here and writing it all down. Some highlights from the past months:
- Enjoyed the Teacher of the Year Banquet with Zach and my principal.
- Got connected with a student teacher via the illustrious MG.
- Made an ass of myself at our "first annual" Halloween party -- my apologies to the Mr and Mrs for passing out...
- Got 2 fillings and a crown... I HATE my teeth!
- Made it to "Winter Break" -- don't you DARE say Christmas! -- without seriously injuring any of my students.
So, there it is. Not much. Just TOO much, if you know what I mean.
Right now, I'm just procrastinating about getting into the shower and heading over to work. Yes, it's vacation time, but my principal called a meeting of the Literacy Leadership Team. I am in the running for a new position -- literacy support specialst -- so, I must play the game and attend these meetings... despite the fact that it's my first day of vacation and I have a Master's portfolio to finish and a house to clean and laundry to do and cookies to bake ALL before I go to Oregon on Saturday.
meme challenge -- 10 favorite lines from movies
I'm so excited about this challenge! I love one-liners from movies and use them all the time. So, here are my 10 favorite:
1. We're gonna have dinner. -- Pretty Woman
2. Inconceivable! -- The Princess Bride
3. Bitches, man! -- Say Anything
4. Gee you're funny! Do it again! -- Pinocchio
5. I carried a watermelon? -- Dirty Dancing
6. And I can't stan-em! -- Singing in the Rain
7. These are broken. Mine are broken. -- Pretty Woman
8. Never had one lesson! -- Ferris Bueller's Day Off
9. Look! I'm Woody -- Howdy, Howdy, Howdy! -- Toy Story
and my absolute favorite of all time:
10. down down baby, down by the roller coaster
sweet sweet baby i'll never let you go
chimichimi coco pop chimichimi rock!
chimichimi coco pop chimichimi rock!
i met a girlfriend... a biscuit!
she said a triscuit -- a biscuit!
ooohhh Shanita walkin down the street
ten times a week
i said i meant it i stole my momma's credit
i'm cool i'm hot
sock me in the stomach 3 more times! -- Big
1. We're gonna have dinner. -- Pretty Woman
2. Inconceivable! -- The Princess Bride
3. Bitches, man! -- Say Anything
4. Gee you're funny! Do it again! -- Pinocchio
5. I carried a watermelon? -- Dirty Dancing
6. And I can't stan-em! -- Singing in the Rain
7. These are broken. Mine are broken. -- Pretty Woman
8. Never had one lesson! -- Ferris Bueller's Day Off
9. Look! I'm Woody -- Howdy, Howdy, Howdy! -- Toy Story
and my absolute favorite of all time:
10. down down baby, down by the roller coaster
sweet sweet baby i'll never let you go
chimichimi coco pop chimichimi rock!
chimichimi coco pop chimichimi rock!
i met a girlfriend... a biscuit!
she said a triscuit -- a biscuit!
ooohhh Shanita walkin down the street
ten times a week
i said i meant it i stole my momma's credit
i'm cool i'm hot
sock me in the stomach 3 more times! -- Big
Scrappin' It!!
Mandy and I went to Archiver's last night for Scrap Mania... We had such a good time! Being surrounded by creative people in the back of a store full of every supply you could ever need or want really inspired me! Instead of homework or housework or yardwork or any other kind of work, I want to scrap today... just sit around and play with my pictures, paper, paints, and embellishments and CREATE!
Unfortunately, I live in the world of reality... and know that this completely impossible!
So, I'm sitting here now doing as much procrastinating as I possibly can. I don't need to write two papers or wash the sheets or plant those bulbs I bought. HA!
Reality calls... but I leave with this thought...
Procrastinate now! Don't put it off!
Unfortunately, I live in the world of reality... and know that this completely impossible!
So, I'm sitting here now doing as much procrastinating as I possibly can. I don't need to write two papers or wash the sheets or plant those bulbs I bought. HA!
Reality calls... but I leave with this thought...
Procrastinate now! Don't put it off!
