| You scored as Sleeping Beauty. Your alter ego is Princess Aurora, a.k.a. Sleeping Beauty! You are beautiful and enchanting, and as sweet as ever.
Which Disney Character is your Alter Ego? created with QuizFarm.com |
Saturday, January 20, 2007
I knew it all along...
Friday, January 05, 2007
No Good, Very Bad Day
I feel sick. This can't be happening.
I saw the story on the news this morning about a plane losing radar contact last night. It was foggy around the airport. The local boys were out looking for the plane, they thought it went down. They found it once the fog lifted, only a mile from the airport. It was on it's final descent toward the runway. And it crashed.
It happens all the time, plane crashes. But it doesn't always crash on my friends. Derek, my buddy, my pal. When I was pregnant with B, he would come up to me every Sunday and rub my belly. He gave the greatest hugs! He wasn't a big guy, just portly. But he would HUG you. And he had the softest leather jacket.
His wife, Lisa, is one of my best friends. We sing together in the Praise band at church. She just took over as the worship leader last week. She is so sweet and caring. She was one of the first people I told when I was pregnant with B. She'll watch my kids at the drop of a hat, and loves them like they were hers too.
Her kids are good buddies with my two. Henry and Cheeseman are in the same Sunday school class. They're only 9 months apart in age. Emma is such a sweetheart. She's almost 8 now, and such a girl. She's not real frilly, but she's so funny! I sat next to her at dinner a couple weeks ago, and she cracked me up!
I can't believe he's gone. How is it possible? How could God take that wonderful man from his family? I don't understand. He was the breadwinner, the spiritual head, the daddy. It just doesn't make sense.
I know he's with Jesus. Derek was such a strong Christian. He and Lisa started a non-profit last year to bring beautiful art to those least able to have it. He taught a pottery class up at the church. They taught Sunday school together! Maybe he was just so good, God needed him up there to show the rest of us the way.
I will miss Derek so much. If he can read this, I hope he knows that I love him and will never forget him.
I saw the story on the news this morning about a plane losing radar contact last night. It was foggy around the airport. The local boys were out looking for the plane, they thought it went down. They found it once the fog lifted, only a mile from the airport. It was on it's final descent toward the runway. And it crashed.
It happens all the time, plane crashes. But it doesn't always crash on my friends. Derek, my buddy, my pal. When I was pregnant with B, he would come up to me every Sunday and rub my belly. He gave the greatest hugs! He wasn't a big guy, just portly. But he would HUG you. And he had the softest leather jacket.
His wife, Lisa, is one of my best friends. We sing together in the Praise band at church. She just took over as the worship leader last week. She is so sweet and caring. She was one of the first people I told when I was pregnant with B. She'll watch my kids at the drop of a hat, and loves them like they were hers too.
Her kids are good buddies with my two. Henry and Cheeseman are in the same Sunday school class. They're only 9 months apart in age. Emma is such a sweetheart. She's almost 8 now, and such a girl. She's not real frilly, but she's so funny! I sat next to her at dinner a couple weeks ago, and she cracked me up!
I can't believe he's gone. How is it possible? How could God take that wonderful man from his family? I don't understand. He was the breadwinner, the spiritual head, the daddy. It just doesn't make sense.
I know he's with Jesus. Derek was such a strong Christian. He and Lisa started a non-profit last year to bring beautiful art to those least able to have it. He taught a pottery class up at the church. They taught Sunday school together! Maybe he was just so good, God needed him up there to show the rest of us the way.
I will miss Derek so much. If he can read this, I hope he knows that I love him and will never forget him.
Tuesday, December 19, 2006
Eye Candy, dammit
| Gummy Bears |
 You may be smooshie and taste unnatural, but you're so darn cute. |
Okay, I thought that since I have been eating so much candy today, I should find out what kind I am. Cute, huh? Smooshie and cute, all at the same time. No wonder my Hubs... um, I'll stop now.
Anyway, I am out of school for the holidays! Yay! The students have been absolutely worthless since their exams last week. I have NEVER been so glad to get out of there. And a lot of the teachers are moving to new classrooms over the break, due to the opening of the NEW BUILDING. So I spent the afternoon packing up my office and moving boxes and crates to my new classroom. Yes, they have people who will do that, but crates. They are open on top. I don't want stuff getting messed up. And I mostly wanted to make sure it all went to the right room. Because face it, some of the people who move us can't read properly. I needed to know that my stuff was where I needed it in January. Of course, they haven't moved the previous teacher completely out yet, so it's still possible that they'll move my stuff with hers. That would suck. It is labelled though. Ahh, literacy.
I am just so glad to be done. At least for the next two weeks. I feel relieved. It will be nice to just work one job for a little while. I thought it was funny when people would tell me to "Enjoy your break!" Break? What's that? I'll be at the bookstore nearly every day. No break for me. That's okay. It's still better than being at school!
Sunday, December 17, 2006
More blessings, and more
I wanted everyone to know that I've added more Christmas pictures to the Tour. Sorry about the delay.
Also, there have been even more blessings since Friday afternoon. That night, a friend of mine came by the bookstore to visit for a few minutes. She brought a small gift with her. It was gift cards to the movies. We had talked at church the previous Sunday about how Hubs and I always go to the movies for our birthdays. She knows that his bday is this week, so she and her husband decided to help us continue our bday tradition. And she even offered to watch the boys!
This morning at church, there was another mysterious envelope waiting for us. Inside was note that said someone wanted to help us out and "it isn't much." Just a Target gift card worth $150! Hubs and I are completely overwhelmed by the outpouring of love from this congregation. Obviously, the Spirit of God has moved into our congregation and is moving them this holiday. I am so greatful to all the wonderful people who have helped make this Christmas so special for us!
And so you know, Hubs and I are planning on writing a Thank You to our special Christmas angels and putting it in the church bulletin next Sunday. Even though we don't know who they are, we want them to know how much their gifts are appreciated.
In an unrelated note, my sister passed her National Board Certification for kindergarten! Yay! Now she gets a HUGE pay raise and mucho respect. She and her husgand are talking about having a second child now that they can pay for daycare. I am so excited! I hope they decide to have LOTS of babies! Yippee!
Also, there have been even more blessings since Friday afternoon. That night, a friend of mine came by the bookstore to visit for a few minutes. She brought a small gift with her. It was gift cards to the movies. We had talked at church the previous Sunday about how Hubs and I always go to the movies for our birthdays. She knows that his bday is this week, so she and her husband decided to help us continue our bday tradition. And she even offered to watch the boys!
This morning at church, there was another mysterious envelope waiting for us. Inside was note that said someone wanted to help us out and "it isn't much." Just a Target gift card worth $150! Hubs and I are completely overwhelmed by the outpouring of love from this congregation. Obviously, the Spirit of God has moved into our congregation and is moving them this holiday. I am so greatful to all the wonderful people who have helped make this Christmas so special for us!
And so you know, Hubs and I are planning on writing a Thank You to our special Christmas angels and putting it in the church bulletin next Sunday. Even though we don't know who they are, we want them to know how much their gifts are appreciated.
In an unrelated note, my sister passed her National Board Certification for kindergarten! Yay! Now she gets a HUGE pay raise and mucho respect. She and her husgand are talking about having a second child now that they can pay for daycare. I am so excited! I hope they decide to have LOTS of babies! Yippee!
Friday, December 15, 2006
Christmas Blessings
I don't have much time, as I'm leaving for work in about 40 minutes. But I'm feeling particularly blessed today, so I thought I would share some blessings with you.
These Christmas Pooh's are the first things you see when you come through our front door. I collected them back when I worked at the Disney Store in college. Some are limited edition.
Give me a break! I am working two jobs right now. I'll post more pics when we can actually put presents under the tree.
Hubs and I are well loved. We have some awesome friends! In the mail this week, we received an anonymous Christmas card from someone at church. Enclosed was a $100 Wal-Mart gift card. Yesterday, also at church, Hubs received another anonymous card. Enclosed was a check for $300. Today, I got a card from the other teachers in the magnet program where I teach. Enclosed were 2-$100 gift cards from "Santa" for my boys.
I guess I shouldn't be amazed any more by how the Lord takes care of His own. I know that there are some truly wonderful Christmas angels out there. I wish I could thank them all by name, but I will have to settle for saying a generic "Thanks and God Bless" instead.
I leave you with some scenes from our Christmas tree.
The boys in front of the Christmas tree.
These Christmas Pooh's are the first things you see when you come through our front door. I collected them back when I worked at the Disney Store in college. Some are limited edition.
This scene is on top of the entertainment center. We keep our Christmas cards in the snowman at the left. The Santa was a gift, and he's really cool. Note also the wedding photos on the wall.
This is our mantle. LOVE our stockings. Thanks, LL Bean! The nativity is made of olive wood from Isreal. Hubs and I bought it our first married Christmas. (We had to glue a wise man back on this year though. Oops!)
Be sure to visit BooMama's Christmas Tour of Homes to see some real holiday cheer:
Give me a break! I am working two jobs right now. I'll post more pics when we can actually put presents under the tree.
Wednesday, December 06, 2006
Tis the Season
Come join in BooMama's Christmas Tour of Homes on December 15. I'll be up from having to work half the night, so it won't be a problem for me. That is, if we can get the decorations up before then. The plan is for Saturday. We should make it in plenty of time for the 15th.
BTW, Hubs got a job!!! Yay!!! He's waiting tables at a local family sports pub. No, seriously, that's what it's called. A Family. Sports. Pub. I try not to think about it. Anyhoo, he started training tonight, so hopefully he'll be on his own next week and making the big tips! It's usually pretty full, especially on football Sundays. Unfortunately, because of the whole "pastor-in-training" thing, he won't be working during the big game days. Oh well. There's still Friday and Saturday night.
And have I mentioned that I'm working at a bookstore. And I LOVE IT!!!! It is the best time! I would love to make that a full-time gig. Hmmm... retail management....
Monday, November 27, 2006
Happy Turkeys
I am so frustrated. Honestly. You'd think I wasn't working two jobs, doing laundry, cleaning the kitchen, and taking care of two kids. I'd love to sit around a library all day, or in class, learning. Taking notes. Learning. What a concept! If we could switch, that would be awesome.
I'm not asking for much. Just fold the clothes when you do the laundry. Don't just dump them on the lounger and let them sit for 3 days. Empty the garbage when it's full. Put your cereal bowl in the dishwasher! Geez! You're 28 years old! You know how to open the damn dishwasher. I am not your mom!
Who, by the way, decided to clean the kitchen when she came for Thanksgiving. Hubs asked her TWICE to stop wiping up the counters and sink - WITH. A. SPONGE. of all things - but she said she didn't have anything else to do. Um, try playing with your grandsons, you old cow! Good Lord! I even sent the boys outside so that she would get out of the house and let Hubs cook in peace. But NOOOOOOOO!!!! I thought I was going to lose it. Really.
There. I said it. And yes, in my previous post, I remarked about how I am greatful for such generous in-laws. And I am. I really am. But I need her to NOT clean my counters. with a sponge. Did I mention she used a sponge???? The nastiest germ-carrying option. Does she not watch Oprah? NO. She's too busy cleaning my kitchen!
Okay, I'm done.
And tonight my mom was on my case about wanting to make sure that Cheeseboy goes to Sunday School every week. Does she not get that Hubs is studying to be a pastor? And that we are VERY involved in our church? And that my child's walk with Christ is the most important thing in his young life? She was actually giving me a hard time. And accusing me of accusing HER of being a bad grandma. I said no such thing. Nothing!
But does she not remember skipping church A LOT when I was young? We hardly ever went. She thinks this is all Hubs' doing. "You sound like your husband!" she says. Like it's a bad thing that God is important to us. You'd think a parent would be proud that her daughter is so committed to walking with the Lord.
Whatever. I have more things to rant about, but I have a ton of papers to grade that are leftover from my Thanksgiving "break" from school that wasn't really a "break" because I was working 40 hours at my other part-time job that I have because Hubs is in school and incapable of working. Did I mention that my mom is on his case for that too? It's been a fun week.
I'm not asking for much. Just fold the clothes when you do the laundry. Don't just dump them on the lounger and let them sit for 3 days. Empty the garbage when it's full. Put your cereal bowl in the dishwasher! Geez! You're 28 years old! You know how to open the damn dishwasher. I am not your mom!
Who, by the way, decided to clean the kitchen when she came for Thanksgiving. Hubs asked her TWICE to stop wiping up the counters and sink - WITH. A. SPONGE. of all things - but she said she didn't have anything else to do. Um, try playing with your grandsons, you old cow! Good Lord! I even sent the boys outside so that she would get out of the house and let Hubs cook in peace. But NOOOOOOOO!!!! I thought I was going to lose it. Really.
There. I said it. And yes, in my previous post, I remarked about how I am greatful for such generous in-laws. And I am. I really am. But I need her to NOT clean my counters. with a sponge. Did I mention she used a sponge???? The nastiest germ-carrying option. Does she not watch Oprah? NO. She's too busy cleaning my kitchen!
Okay, I'm done.
And tonight my mom was on my case about wanting to make sure that Cheeseboy goes to Sunday School every week. Does she not get that Hubs is studying to be a pastor? And that we are VERY involved in our church? And that my child's walk with Christ is the most important thing in his young life? She was actually giving me a hard time. And accusing me of accusing HER of being a bad grandma. I said no such thing. Nothing!
But does she not remember skipping church A LOT when I was young? We hardly ever went. She thinks this is all Hubs' doing. "You sound like your husband!" she says. Like it's a bad thing that God is important to us. You'd think a parent would be proud that her daughter is so committed to walking with the Lord.
Whatever. I have more things to rant about, but I have a ton of papers to grade that are leftover from my Thanksgiving "break" from school that wasn't really a "break" because I was working 40 hours at my other part-time job that I have because Hubs is in school and incapable of working. Did I mention that my mom is on his case for that too? It's been a fun week.
Monday, November 13, 2006
Getting Into the Spirit
Having been sent over by BooMama to A Broad In Athens, I was inspired to make a list of the 20 things I'm most thankful for (in no particular order):
1. I'm thankful for those two sweet little boys who still like to cuddle on the couch with their mom.
2. I'm thankful for my job, even if I don't always like it.
3. I'm thankful for my students, especially when they have an "a-ha" moment.
4. I'm thankful that my car is still running.
5. I'm thankful that the Hubs didn't have a complete breakdown during his last depressed episode.
6. I'm thankful that my mom lives nearby and is willing to watch my kids almost any time I need her.
7. I'm thankful that my sister, her husband, and my niece live close enough that the boys can get to know their cousin.
8. I'm thankful that for the most part, Colby is doing a great job at school and is learning so much!
9. I am thankful that we found such an awesome in-home daycare for Bennett, and that it is right up the street!
10. I am thankful that I get to be surrounded by books at my "other" job in the bookstore. How blessed am I!
11. I am thankful that my dad cares enough about his grandsons that he is willing to drive 6 hours to come visit for a day.
12. I'm thankful that my cousin was admitted to the bar in SC. This may prompt his mom (my fave aunt) to come live here. She is DREAM with the kids!
13. I'm thankful for the new friends I'm making at church.
14. I'm thankful that these new friends have kids almost the exact same ages as Colby and Bennett. Built in play dates!
15. I'm thankful that every Sunday, I get to help lead the congregation in worshipping the Lord. Every Sunday!
16. I am thankful for my wonderful husband who has the courage to follow his call and become a pastor.
17. I am thankful for the Internet, without which I would not have such a great relationship to my extended family. Thanks be to God for myfamily.com!
18. I am thankful that I will be getting my very own classroom again in January! Patience pays off!
19. I'm thankful for my in-laws (there, I said it), who are willing to write a check to their son and daughter-in-law because we are in financial difficulties.
20. I am thankful for my mom's partner who is so generous, that she buys us groceries. She also loves me, and my kids, like we were born of her own flesh. Sometimes, I think she loves us more than my mom does.
So, what are you thankful for?
1. I'm thankful for those two sweet little boys who still like to cuddle on the couch with their mom.
2. I'm thankful for my job, even if I don't always like it.
3. I'm thankful for my students, especially when they have an "a-ha" moment.
4. I'm thankful that my car is still running.
5. I'm thankful that the Hubs didn't have a complete breakdown during his last depressed episode.
6. I'm thankful that my mom lives nearby and is willing to watch my kids almost any time I need her.
7. I'm thankful that my sister, her husband, and my niece live close enough that the boys can get to know their cousin.
8. I'm thankful that for the most part, Colby is doing a great job at school and is learning so much!
9. I am thankful that we found such an awesome in-home daycare for Bennett, and that it is right up the street!
10. I am thankful that I get to be surrounded by books at my "other" job in the bookstore. How blessed am I!
11. I am thankful that my dad cares enough about his grandsons that he is willing to drive 6 hours to come visit for a day.
12. I'm thankful that my cousin was admitted to the bar in SC. This may prompt his mom (my fave aunt) to come live here. She is DREAM with the kids!
13. I'm thankful for the new friends I'm making at church.
14. I'm thankful that these new friends have kids almost the exact same ages as Colby and Bennett. Built in play dates!
15. I'm thankful that every Sunday, I get to help lead the congregation in worshipping the Lord. Every Sunday!
16. I am thankful for my wonderful husband who has the courage to follow his call and become a pastor.
17. I am thankful for the Internet, without which I would not have such a great relationship to my extended family. Thanks be to God for myfamily.com!
18. I am thankful that I will be getting my very own classroom again in January! Patience pays off!
19. I'm thankful for my in-laws (there, I said it), who are willing to write a check to their son and daughter-in-law because we are in financial difficulties.
20. I am thankful for my mom's partner who is so generous, that she buys us groceries. She also loves me, and my kids, like we were born of her own flesh. Sometimes, I think she loves us more than my mom does.
So, what are you thankful for?
Thursday, November 09, 2006
Every Day, Like the One Before
The pictures from Halloween are still on the camera. There is still candy in the kids' buckets. Spiderman is well and good. The little elephant is too.
I have been working my ass off this week. (not literally, unfortunately) As I've mentioned, I have started a new job at a local bookseller. Fun! I love books! Well, I USED to love books. Now, I think that Stephen King needs to get a life already! Please, somebody, make him stop writing!! If for no other reason than I'm tired of shelving his damn books! There's, like, a million of them! Anyway, this bookseller is getting ready to open a new store near my home. Sooooo, we've been getting everything ready for the grand opening. It's been pretty interesting. It went from totally empty but for the shelves, to being completely full of books in about 24 hours. So cool!
I've met some really neat people this week. Really, it takes all kinds, right? There's a couple of us teachers, some college kids, and some people for whom part-time is a way of life. And the managers! Yowza! One of them is brilliant. No really, she is. She speaks like 9 languages, fluently. Including Latin! Odd but true. She could be anything. And she chooses this? To each their own!
This week in kid news has not been terrible. Well, except for the red card for Colby yesterday. Because of the other kid's bloody nose. Yes. Bloody nose. They were playing "monster", and there was a ball involved. I don't think Colby meant to hurt the other kid. I hope not anyway. But either way, the ball was thrown. The other kid ended up in the nurse's office with a bloody nose. I was SHOCKED. And MORTIFIED. I just wanted the earth to open up so that I could JUMP into the crack and stay there forever.
Wit's end. I'm at my wit's end.
Bennett won't eat. He doesn't like hot dogs, chicken nuggets, spaghetti, green beans, mac'n'cheese, nothing. He used to LOVE those foods. Now, nothing. We can't get him to sit still long enough to ingest anything. And he's not exactly the world's chunkiest kid to begin with either. In fact, my sons are known for their skinniness. (is that a word?) They are tiny things, with no tummy or bottom to speak of. Poor Bennett is just wasting away! Well, not really, but he's not putting on weight. He's always been pretty small, but still! He did eat some of the spaghetti SAUCE tonight at dinner, so that's something.
That's about all for now. I'll have to write some other time when I can just ramble. Oh wait. That's what I'm doing now. Whatever.
I have been working my ass off this week. (not literally, unfortunately) As I've mentioned, I have started a new job at a local bookseller. Fun! I love books! Well, I USED to love books. Now, I think that Stephen King needs to get a life already! Please, somebody, make him stop writing!! If for no other reason than I'm tired of shelving his damn books! There's, like, a million of them! Anyway, this bookseller is getting ready to open a new store near my home. Sooooo, we've been getting everything ready for the grand opening. It's been pretty interesting. It went from totally empty but for the shelves, to being completely full of books in about 24 hours. So cool!
I've met some really neat people this week. Really, it takes all kinds, right? There's a couple of us teachers, some college kids, and some people for whom part-time is a way of life. And the managers! Yowza! One of them is brilliant. No really, she is. She speaks like 9 languages, fluently. Including Latin! Odd but true. She could be anything. And she chooses this? To each their own!
This week in kid news has not been terrible. Well, except for the red card for Colby yesterday. Because of the other kid's bloody nose. Yes. Bloody nose. They were playing "monster", and there was a ball involved. I don't think Colby meant to hurt the other kid. I hope not anyway. But either way, the ball was thrown. The other kid ended up in the nurse's office with a bloody nose. I was SHOCKED. And MORTIFIED. I just wanted the earth to open up so that I could JUMP into the crack and stay there forever.
Wit's end. I'm at my wit's end.
Bennett won't eat. He doesn't like hot dogs, chicken nuggets, spaghetti, green beans, mac'n'cheese, nothing. He used to LOVE those foods. Now, nothing. We can't get him to sit still long enough to ingest anything. And he's not exactly the world's chunkiest kid to begin with either. In fact, my sons are known for their skinniness. (is that a word?) They are tiny things, with no tummy or bottom to speak of. Poor Bennett is just wasting away! Well, not really, but he's not putting on weight. He's always been pretty small, but still! He did eat some of the spaghetti SAUCE tonight at dinner, so that's something.
That's about all for now. I'll have to write some other time when I can just ramble. Oh wait. That's what I'm doing now. Whatever.
Tuesday, October 31, 2006
Happy Halloween!
It's Halloween! Happy Halloween!
OMG! The kids at school today were so crazy! Luckily, I managed to calm down a couple of classes by giving them a test. I'm so mean. Actually, it wasn't too bad a day. My first two classes had donuts, courtesy of parents. We celebrated a girl's birthday in first block. In second block, hmm, I'm not really sure why we had donuts. And cookies. But I'll tell you, I was HIGH!! I'd taken some cold medicine before class. Then had some hot chocolate. Then a glazed donut. The some Mountain Dew. Then a donut with orange (yum) icing and sprinkles. And some more Mountain Dew. I was flying! I have no idea what went on in my classes. I'm such a responsible teacher.
In third and fourth blocks, the kids took a test on Hercules. It was 25 whole multiple-choice questions. So hard. (Hear sarcasm here) Then they got to color a Halloween themed picture. Of course, they had to use their knowledge of Latin colors in order to follow the key. Of course, some of them didn't finish in class. So, now they have COLORING homework. From Latin class. It's funny.
Then in 5th and 6th block, we took a test. It was not a particularly hard test. It was not a terribly easy test. The kids thought it was pretty easy. I tried not to make it too difficult. As much as those 8th graders annoy the piss out of me, I really don't want them to fail. Well, most of them anyway. There are a couple that I'd like to flunk. If I'm being honest. And why not? This is my blog. None of my students know it exists. And they'd never think to look for me under this name.
Coming up next: the exciting world of trick-or-treating. We're going out to my sister's and going with her daughter in their neighborhood. Which is just as well, since we're too poor to buy candy to hand out this year. I'd feel bad taking my neighbors' candy if I'm not participating. Ya know? I'll post some pictures later of the kids. Colby is dressing as Spiderman, as he's been doing for the past month. And Bennett is going as an elephant. Yeah, I know. Poor kid. But it was free and it will fit. I hope. We haven't actually tried it on him. Guess if worse comes to worse (what does that mean anyway) we can always put him in one of my neice's Cinderella outfits. (hee hee)
OMG! The kids at school today were so crazy! Luckily, I managed to calm down a couple of classes by giving them a test. I'm so mean. Actually, it wasn't too bad a day. My first two classes had donuts, courtesy of parents. We celebrated a girl's birthday in first block. In second block, hmm, I'm not really sure why we had donuts. And cookies. But I'll tell you, I was HIGH!! I'd taken some cold medicine before class. Then had some hot chocolate. Then a glazed donut. The some Mountain Dew. Then a donut with orange (yum) icing and sprinkles. And some more Mountain Dew. I was flying! I have no idea what went on in my classes. I'm such a responsible teacher.
In third and fourth blocks, the kids took a test on Hercules. It was 25 whole multiple-choice questions. So hard. (Hear sarcasm here) Then they got to color a Halloween themed picture. Of course, they had to use their knowledge of Latin colors in order to follow the key. Of course, some of them didn't finish in class. So, now they have COLORING homework. From Latin class. It's funny.
Then in 5th and 6th block, we took a test. It was not a particularly hard test. It was not a terribly easy test. The kids thought it was pretty easy. I tried not to make it too difficult. As much as those 8th graders annoy the piss out of me, I really don't want them to fail. Well, most of them anyway. There are a couple that I'd like to flunk. If I'm being honest. And why not? This is my blog. None of my students know it exists. And they'd never think to look for me under this name.
Coming up next: the exciting world of trick-or-treating. We're going out to my sister's and going with her daughter in their neighborhood. Which is just as well, since we're too poor to buy candy to hand out this year. I'd feel bad taking my neighbors' candy if I'm not participating. Ya know? I'll post some pictures later of the kids. Colby is dressing as Spiderman, as he's been doing for the past month. And Bennett is going as an elephant. Yeah, I know. Poor kid. But it was free and it will fit. I hope. We haven't actually tried it on him. Guess if worse comes to worse (what does that mean anyway) we can always put him in one of my neice's Cinderella outfits. (hee hee)
Thursday, October 26, 2006
It's official. I've got a second job. I got my schedule for next week. Wednesday night, Friday night, Saturday all afternoon and early evening. There goes my life. See ya! Don't let the door hit you on your way out! I didn't want to spend any time with my kids anyway.
Colby has been having difficulties in school again. He's been on red once, orange once, yellow once, and green once. Evidently, he enjoys playing "guns" at school with his little buddy. They are not allowed to do that. You know, school violence and all begins at the preschool level. He's also having so much fun during the day that he refuses to stop to go pee. So he's going in his pants instead. This has happened three times this week. And tomorrow still to go! He used to be potty trained. I'm not sure what is happening here. I feel like we've lost control of the sweet little boy I used to know.
I've wondered if all this acting out is a cry for something else. My mom, because she knows all, thinks that this could be some kind of post-surgery psycho thing. Like, he's reacting to the trauma of surgery. But that was almost three months ago. Is there some kind of time limit on these things? And how do you ask a four-year-old if he's feeling traumatized by his surgery that happened three months ago? Should we find some kind of child psychologist?Argh! I cannot deal with anything else right now.
Is there some kind of limit to how much crap can go on in your life all at the same time? I think we're there.
Colby has been having difficulties in school again. He's been on red once, orange once, yellow once, and green once. Evidently, he enjoys playing "guns" at school with his little buddy. They are not allowed to do that. You know, school violence and all begins at the preschool level. He's also having so much fun during the day that he refuses to stop to go pee. So he's going in his pants instead. This has happened three times this week. And tomorrow still to go! He used to be potty trained. I'm not sure what is happening here. I feel like we've lost control of the sweet little boy I used to know.
I've wondered if all this acting out is a cry for something else. My mom, because she knows all, thinks that this could be some kind of post-surgery psycho thing. Like, he's reacting to the trauma of surgery. But that was almost three months ago. Is there some kind of time limit on these things? And how do you ask a four-year-old if he's feeling traumatized by his surgery that happened three months ago? Should we find some kind of child psychologist?Argh! I cannot deal with anything else right now.
Is there some kind of limit to how much crap can go on in your life all at the same time? I think we're there.
Monday, October 23, 2006
Under the Weather
It's fall. The time when a man's fancy turns to thoughts of snuggling naked under a comforter. When my thoughts turn to Where are we going to get the money for daycare? For the mortgage? For the electric/water/phone/cell phone?
Why haven't I heard back from that job I interviewed for where the manager practically had me sign the papers on the spot? I didn't really want to have to work another job until midnight most nights, but when you're looking at losing your house, anything looks good.
Why won't hubs get a job? He just dropped two classes, because he was feeling overwhelmed. Um, hello!? He's got the time. If he could just learn to read faster, or more effectively.
Why do I have to deal with everything? Calling the hospital to set up payment plans. Making sure the bills are paid. Earning the money. Cooking. Cleaning. Doing laundry.
I am so tired. So very tired. I'd like to just curl up in a little ball and go to sleep. But I have to go grade papers. And I have to fill out financial assistance forms. And the DSS forms for food stamps. And the forms to see if we qualify for Medicaid. Because I have no pride anymore. I believe we have hit rock bottom.
It's lonely down here.
Sorry this is so depressing. But I've had a rough time lately. If anyone would like to make donations, please email. I will be happy to send you my address.
Why haven't I heard back from that job I interviewed for where the manager practically had me sign the papers on the spot? I didn't really want to have to work another job until midnight most nights, but when you're looking at losing your house, anything looks good.
Why won't hubs get a job? He just dropped two classes, because he was feeling overwhelmed. Um, hello!? He's got the time. If he could just learn to read faster, or more effectively.
Why do I have to deal with everything? Calling the hospital to set up payment plans. Making sure the bills are paid. Earning the money. Cooking. Cleaning. Doing laundry.
I am so tired. So very tired. I'd like to just curl up in a little ball and go to sleep. But I have to go grade papers. And I have to fill out financial assistance forms. And the DSS forms for food stamps. And the forms to see if we qualify for Medicaid. Because I have no pride anymore. I believe we have hit rock bottom.
It's lonely down here.
Sorry this is so depressing. But I've had a rough time lately. If anyone would like to make donations, please email. I will be happy to send you my address.
Wednesday, October 11, 2006
Happy Second Birthday, Bennett
What a special day! Why? Because two years ago, I became a twice-baked mommy with the addition of Bennett.
Half an hour later, we had Bennett!
Hubs and I got up early that morning of October 11. We'd picked out that date for the c-section. I don't know why. It just seemed like a good day, and it would allow my in-laws to not have to miss any football games over the next weekend. (Honestly, that was part of it.) Anyway, my moms came over around 5:30 am. They were taking care of Colby while we were in the hospital.
We drove mostly in silence. I know that I was nervous about having a second child. How could I possibly love another baby as much as I loved my first? What would we do with another mouth to feed? How would we ever pay for daycare? Would my recovery be okay? Would the baby be okay, or would he have to go to the NICU too?
The nurses prepped me: cleaned my tummy, checked my vitals, took 3 tries to get in an IV. I talked to the anesthesiologist about a thousand times. The doc came in to check on me. Then, it was showtime!
Half an hour later, we had Bennett!
If nothing else, Bennett has been an adventure. Literally. He's not afraid of anything or anyone. From the very beginning, he had his own little personality. Sleep on my back? I think not! Eat constantly? I think so! Sleep through the night? No problem!
He would take his own sweet time doing other things: rolling over, cutting teeth, crawling, talking. However, he's been a pioneer. He loves to climb. Anything, anytime, anywhere. He's not afraid of animals. He's not afraid of the hair clippers. He's not afraid of that dead cockroach in the corner of the classroom at the church. (He tried to eat it. Thank God that Pastor Barrett was paying attention!) No vacuum wakes him, nor does lightning or thunder.
He is so curious about everything. He wants to use that big boy potty so badly! He wants to sleep in the bunk bed with his big brother. (Um, no!) What is that cool, shiny thing on the back of the car? An exhaust pipe? Can I touch it? Ouch! What does it feel like to go head-first off the side of the couch? Ouch!
And he wants to be Colby so much! All he does is follow his big brother around all day. When Colby was into dinosaurs, Bennett had to play too. When Colby liked the Wiggles (glad that's over), Bennett had to play the Wiggle guitar too. Now that Colby's into Spiderman/Superman/Batman, Bennett must have them as well. It is so cute! Well, I think it's cute. Colby doesn't much like it though.
All in all, I am so blessed to have Bennett as my second son. He brings out the best in me. He still loves to cuddle with his mommy. At night, we say our prayers together. Then, I sing "You Are My Sunshine". He lifts his little head and places his forehead against mine as I sing. His blue eyes look right into my brown ones, and he sees into my heart. He knows that I love him more than words.
Happy Second Birthday, Angel baby!
Saturday, October 07, 2006
My Favorite Email Ever
Let me start by saying that Colby has been having some issues lately. He's just turned four, and this has apparently made him think that he rules the universe. While it is true that he gets his way a lot of the time, because really it's just easier than explaining WHY he can't have a Spiderman popsicle 5 minutes before dinner, it has not been pleasant to live with.
If you have small children, you are probably familiar with the green-yellow-orange-red progression that is commonly used in schools to show how a child's behavior was that day. Well, my dear Colby has been orange twice in the past two weeks. And on Wednesday, a half-day at school, in only 3 hours, he was red. RED. RED!!! Holy shit!
In my wildest dreams, I never imagined that a child of mine would ever stoop to behavior so bad that it would require a RED. Never! But it was. He was. I was so disappointed. I was so embarrassed.
Then, yesterday, I was checking my email at the end of the day, and I saw one from his teacher. All the subject said was "Colby :)" I took that to be a good sign. Inside the email was this:
mo mmmmmmmmmmmmmy and daddy,
iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii aam haaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaviiiii ng a beeeeeeeeeeetterrr day! :::;;;;;;;;;;;;)'
colby
I was near tears. I laughed and laughed, and almost cried. My baby, my angel boy, he wrote his first email. At the tender age of four. I immediately forwarded it to the hubs. He loved it too. We've saved it. It's too sweet.
And thank God he had a better day. Otherwise, he would have lost all the skin on his bottom.
Monday, October 02, 2006
OLTA final
Almost forgot.
Weight: 162 lbs.
Size: 12
Attitude: improving
I'm not quite as depressed as last week. It was nice having the weekend to just veg.
Even though I haven't changed any sizes, I am happy to say that I maintained. I didn't get to go the gym AT ALL, and my life has been one shit pile after another during this whole experience. But I'm okay with that. I'm proud of myself for not giving up when things got rough, and really, isn't that what life is all about?
So I'm mentally preparing to kiss someone's (tiny) ass soon. Who will it be?
And I'm so glad I made some new bloggy friends! It's been great having you ladies to talk to and share with. I hope you keep coming around!
Weight: 162 lbs.
Size: 12
Attitude: improving
I'm not quite as depressed as last week. It was nice having the weekend to just veg.
Even though I haven't changed any sizes, I am happy to say that I maintained. I didn't get to go the gym AT ALL, and my life has been one shit pile after another during this whole experience. But I'm okay with that. I'm proud of myself for not giving up when things got rough, and really, isn't that what life is all about?
So I'm mentally preparing to kiss someone's (tiny) ass soon. Who will it be?
And I'm so glad I made some new bloggy friends! It's been great having you ladies to talk to and share with. I hope you keep coming around!
And Another One
I'll be the first to admit it. I don't want to go to work tomorrow. I know I say that a lot, but I think that there are teachers everywhere who will echo my sentiments.
There was another school shooting today. In Amish country. A shooter just walked in and blew the kids (girls) away. Last week, a principal was shot by a student. The week before, there was a shooting somewhere else. According to the news, there have been 17 fatal shootings just this school year. Since August 1.
I'm scared. I work in a less desireable part of town. The kids at my school can be rough. We have an entire "village" of portables. Anybody can get in there and just go crazy. There's a chain link fence keeping us safe. There's a whole building site on the other side. What if one of those guys went crazy? Who is going to stop them?
I have two little ones who need their mommy.
Someone needs to do something about this. I don't want to be afraid every time I go to work. I'm a teacher for goodness sake! We're all about shaping the future of America, creating leaders, and all that shit. Isn't it time someone took care of us. Lord knows, we don't get paid enough to give up our lives.
Think about it. And thank a teacher for being willing to go to work tomorrow.
There was another school shooting today. In Amish country. A shooter just walked in and blew the kids (girls) away. Last week, a principal was shot by a student. The week before, there was a shooting somewhere else. According to the news, there have been 17 fatal shootings just this school year. Since August 1.
I'm scared. I work in a less desireable part of town. The kids at my school can be rough. We have an entire "village" of portables. Anybody can get in there and just go crazy. There's a chain link fence keeping us safe. There's a whole building site on the other side. What if one of those guys went crazy? Who is going to stop them?
I have two little ones who need their mommy.
Someone needs to do something about this. I don't want to be afraid every time I go to work. I'm a teacher for goodness sake! We're all about shaping the future of America, creating leaders, and all that shit. Isn't it time someone took care of us. Lord knows, we don't get paid enough to give up our lives.
Think about it. And thank a teacher for being willing to go to work tomorrow.
Sunday, October 01, 2006
On My Journey
When I was a little girl, we would go to church occasionally. My mom is Catholic, my dad is Lutheran. Neither was what you would call a regular. In fact, my did pretty much only went to church to see one of us kids get baptised, celebrate first communion, or get confirmed. Otherwise, he did not darken the doors of a church. There is a story there, but it's not mine to tell.
Mostly, we'd go maybe once a month. I remember we went a little more often once we moved to Mississippi. The church there was nice. I liked the Father. He was nice. But he left after a year, and I didn't really want to go much after that. Then, my parents split up. My mom moved out. I was devestated. She would still come over before and after school every day, but it wasn't the same.
After a couple of years, my dad started going to church again. So some Sundays we'd go to the Catholic church with my mom, and some we'd go to the Lutheran church with Dad. I still wasn't that into it, it was just something we did. Then Dad got remarried, and he got more serious about church. He went EVERY week. Then, and this was a real kicker, he decided he wanted to go to Seminary. So we moved to SC.
My mom managed to find a job out here and she followed us. If I went to church at all, it was to Catholic church. I didn't want to go with Dad. I guess I was still rebelling and angry at moving. I tried going to CYO, but all the kids went to a different high school, so I didn't really fit in.
When I went off to Furman, I started attending Mass on campus. I met some really nice people, and started to go every week. I sang with our little group during Mass. It was fun. I met a nice boy and started dating him. This went on for a couple of years. We even got engaged. But my heart wasn't in any of it. Not Mass, not singing, not dating Chris. Senior year, I broke it off with him, once and for all. I stopped going to Mass.
I went on foreign study that winter. I traveled to Egypt, Jordan, Isreal, and Italy. It was AWESOME!!! I was so blessed to have those experiences. But I saw things there that really shook me. The Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem. The church in Cana, where Jesus turned water into wine. The Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem, where Christians/Orthodox can't seem to share and get along. The final straw was St. Peter's in Vatican City. The hugeness, the ornateness, the works of art, the splendor. I couldn't reconcile this with what I thought Christianity was all about: helping the poor, being a good person, living a simpler life. When I got home from foreign study, that was it. I told my mom that I didn't want to attend church anymore. I told my dad. They were not happy about that. But they gave me space.
After graduation, I started dating Weston. After a few months, he invited me to go to church with him. He taught a class of senior citizens, his "grandmothers". They were sweet. His church embraced me with open arms. I went to Sunday school, worship, Wednesday night fellowship. The pastor, Don, was such a great guy! He listed when I talked.
I watched the way Weston lived his life, how at peace he seemed. And I wanted some of that. I joined his church, and it was a great fit. But I still felt like something was missing.
When we moved to Columbia for my job, we didn't go to church right at first. Then a couple of my students mentioned their church to me. I thought, Why not? And then I met Pastor Barrett. It seemed like every Sunday, he spoke to me. He challenged me to do more, to be more. I got involved with Bible school, took Disciple Bible study, started going to Sunday school. And I felt alive! I couldn't get enough of Jesus and His Word. I wanted to know His plan, to make sure I was following His lead. I made friends. I had found a church home.
So, that's where I am. I have added singing in the Praise Team to my list of church activities now. I love to sing, and I love to praise God. We've got a new pastor, Kevin, now. He's not the same as Pastor Barrett (whom I miss terribly), but he's also a great spiritual guide. Weston and I have dedicated our lives, and our children, to Christ. We've had a few bumpy spots. Even starting Seminary isn't easy. I pray multiple times a day, sometimes continuously, about everything. Traffic, tests, the kids, books, you name it.
Was there one specific day where everything changed? When I gave my life over to Christ? No. It's been a gradual process, started by my husband. He didn't know he was planting a seed. He was just being his usual,wonderful self. He turned me on to things I didn't even know I was missing. I'm so glad he has been my partner through this.
It's all about the journey. And I'm so glad to be on it.
Thanks to Lauren at Created for HIS Glory for this Bloggy Tour of Testimonies.
Mostly, we'd go maybe once a month. I remember we went a little more often once we moved to Mississippi. The church there was nice. I liked the Father. He was nice. But he left after a year, and I didn't really want to go much after that. Then, my parents split up. My mom moved out. I was devestated. She would still come over before and after school every day, but it wasn't the same.
After a couple of years, my dad started going to church again. So some Sundays we'd go to the Catholic church with my mom, and some we'd go to the Lutheran church with Dad. I still wasn't that into it, it was just something we did. Then Dad got remarried, and he got more serious about church. He went EVERY week. Then, and this was a real kicker, he decided he wanted to go to Seminary. So we moved to SC.
My mom managed to find a job out here and she followed us. If I went to church at all, it was to Catholic church. I didn't want to go with Dad. I guess I was still rebelling and angry at moving. I tried going to CYO, but all the kids went to a different high school, so I didn't really fit in.
When I went off to Furman, I started attending Mass on campus. I met some really nice people, and started to go every week. I sang with our little group during Mass. It was fun. I met a nice boy and started dating him. This went on for a couple of years. We even got engaged. But my heart wasn't in any of it. Not Mass, not singing, not dating Chris. Senior year, I broke it off with him, once and for all. I stopped going to Mass.
I went on foreign study that winter. I traveled to Egypt, Jordan, Isreal, and Italy. It was AWESOME!!! I was so blessed to have those experiences. But I saw things there that really shook me. The Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem. The church in Cana, where Jesus turned water into wine. The Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem, where Christians/Orthodox can't seem to share and get along. The final straw was St. Peter's in Vatican City. The hugeness, the ornateness, the works of art, the splendor. I couldn't reconcile this with what I thought Christianity was all about: helping the poor, being a good person, living a simpler life. When I got home from foreign study, that was it. I told my mom that I didn't want to attend church anymore. I told my dad. They were not happy about that. But they gave me space.
After graduation, I started dating Weston. After a few months, he invited me to go to church with him. He taught a class of senior citizens, his "grandmothers". They were sweet. His church embraced me with open arms. I went to Sunday school, worship, Wednesday night fellowship. The pastor, Don, was such a great guy! He listed when I talked.
I watched the way Weston lived his life, how at peace he seemed. And I wanted some of that. I joined his church, and it was a great fit. But I still felt like something was missing.
When we moved to Columbia for my job, we didn't go to church right at first. Then a couple of my students mentioned their church to me. I thought, Why not? And then I met Pastor Barrett. It seemed like every Sunday, he spoke to me. He challenged me to do more, to be more. I got involved with Bible school, took Disciple Bible study, started going to Sunday school. And I felt alive! I couldn't get enough of Jesus and His Word. I wanted to know His plan, to make sure I was following His lead. I made friends. I had found a church home.
So, that's where I am. I have added singing in the Praise Team to my list of church activities now. I love to sing, and I love to praise God. We've got a new pastor, Kevin, now. He's not the same as Pastor Barrett (whom I miss terribly), but he's also a great spiritual guide. Weston and I have dedicated our lives, and our children, to Christ. We've had a few bumpy spots. Even starting Seminary isn't easy. I pray multiple times a day, sometimes continuously, about everything. Traffic, tests, the kids, books, you name it.
Was there one specific day where everything changed? When I gave my life over to Christ? No. It's been a gradual process, started by my husband. He didn't know he was planting a seed. He was just being his usual,wonderful self. He turned me on to things I didn't even know I was missing. I'm so glad he has been my partner through this.
It's all about the journey. And I'm so glad to be on it.
Thanks to Lauren at Created for HIS Glory for this Bloggy Tour of Testimonies.
Saturday, September 30, 2006
Relax
What a great day! It all started last night - nudge-nudge-wink-wink. Well, technically it was already today, but whatever. Then I got to sleep in until - GASP - 7:30! Colby must've had a party in his room or something to sleep that late on a Saturday. Then the family just hung out all morning. The boys played nicely and didn't make each other bleed, which is always a plus. They took a bath, since they didn't get one last night.
My mom came over just before lunch to babysit. Hubs and I had a date! I was supporting a local high school by buying a couple of lunch tickets to Carrabba's. Yum! Drinks, salad, pasta, chicken marsala... aren't you all drooling? To hell with OLTA! Italian food rocks! [I can still fit into my size 12s so I'm really okay.] We had an AWESOME TIME! We just got to sit and talk. Pretend that we were NOT parents for an hour. It was great! Not that I don't love my boys, but sometimes it's nice to have a little grown-up time.
Afterwards, we went and bought a new bookcase for all Hubs' new schoolbooks. Then we went to the mall and walked around. We got a new watch battery, priced iPod accessories, looked at Christmas (in Sept!) ornaments, books, clothes. I had a great time! I wish every Saturday could be this relaxed.
Shit. We still need to get groceries. So much for relaxed. That is always fraught with dangers and yelling.
My mom came over just before lunch to babysit. Hubs and I had a date! I was supporting a local high school by buying a couple of lunch tickets to Carrabba's. Yum! Drinks, salad, pasta, chicken marsala... aren't you all drooling? To hell with OLTA! Italian food rocks! [I can still fit into my size 12s so I'm really okay.] We had an AWESOME TIME! We just got to sit and talk. Pretend that we were NOT parents for an hour. It was great! Not that I don't love my boys, but sometimes it's nice to have a little grown-up time.
Afterwards, we went and bought a new bookcase for all Hubs' new schoolbooks. Then we went to the mall and walked around. We got a new watch battery, priced iPod accessories, looked at Christmas (in Sept!) ornaments, books, clothes. I had a great time! I wish every Saturday could be this relaxed.
Shit. We still need to get groceries. So much for relaxed. That is always fraught with dangers and yelling.
Friday, September 29, 2006
I Have a Thinking Problem
What to think, what to think. We had dinner with Pastor R, hubs' mentor. The mentors are seeminly randomly assigned. It happens that Pastor R happens to be the pastor of the church where my mom and her, um, "best friend" go to church. (The "best friend" is a whole different post. I'll go into it later.) She also knows hubs' parents, as they are active in the South Carolina UMC. How fun. She had already met my children also, as they go to church with Nanas sometimes. I was basically the only member of the family she DIDN'T know. Of course, we had to remedy that.
I've had problems with the idea of Pastor R for a while now. She's tried to convince hubs that he should move to Atlanta to go to the "official" Methodist seminary there. She's also told him to really make an effort to balance ministry and family. (Then came the push to move himself to Atl. Is the woman a study in contrasts?) She's also habitually late. For everything. Whenever hubs is supposed to meet with her, she ends up changing the date/time at least once. She's usually then late to the changed date/time. So of course, tonight, she was almost 30 minutes late. We had the kids. In a restaurant. Trying to keep them occupied. It was not pretty. My boys don't do the sit still thing. At all. Sheesh!
So Pastor R finally shows up, and she wants to ask me all the questions: What is the thing that makes you most excited about this new direction? What makes you most nervous? What makes you most excited for your children? What makes you most nervous for them? What would you do if you get assigned to Podunk, SC? What will you do about a job? What will you do if the local schools are sub-par? (We DO live in South Carolina, which is next to last in the nation in school stuff. Thanks for taking last place Mississippi!)
Ummm, what the hell?! What makes me nervous? Moving. Starting over. Making new friends. Being away from my family (mom, sis, etc.). Being a pastor's wife. Playing church politics. The all to real chance that I'll never have a REAL friend again, because they'll be too scared of the whole pastor's wife label. That my kids will grow up shunned and labelled. That they'll never feel good enough, smart enough. That they will inherit their mom's shyness.
Am I excited about this journey? F*CK NO! I don't want to leave behind everything I know! Oh no. Can't say that! That would be the wrong answer, and would make Pastor R think that I'm not 100% behind the hubs. Then she'd write it in some report, and they'd blackball him from the process. So I have some misgivings. Who doesn't, when changing a life completely? And what would she know anyway? She's not married, no kids, nothing. She has no idea what I'm going to face. All she knows is what she's read in articles, or heard secondhand. Please. Could they get us a mentor who at least has been where we are? And one who can tell time?
Enough! I'm going to go do some mindless reading. It's called Specials. It's by Scott Westerfeld. He's good. My students like it, and now I'm hooked. I don't usually like this kind of scifi-ish book. But these are good. Really good. See you!
I've had problems with the idea of Pastor R for a while now. She's tried to convince hubs that he should move to Atlanta to go to the "official" Methodist seminary there. She's also told him to really make an effort to balance ministry and family. (Then came the push to move himself to Atl. Is the woman a study in contrasts?) She's also habitually late. For everything. Whenever hubs is supposed to meet with her, she ends up changing the date/time at least once. She's usually then late to the changed date/time. So of course, tonight, she was almost 30 minutes late. We had the kids. In a restaurant. Trying to keep them occupied. It was not pretty. My boys don't do the sit still thing. At all. Sheesh!
So Pastor R finally shows up, and she wants to ask me all the questions: What is the thing that makes you most excited about this new direction? What makes you most nervous? What makes you most excited for your children? What makes you most nervous for them? What would you do if you get assigned to Podunk, SC? What will you do about a job? What will you do if the local schools are sub-par? (We DO live in South Carolina, which is next to last in the nation in school stuff. Thanks for taking last place Mississippi!)
Ummm, what the hell?! What makes me nervous? Moving. Starting over. Making new friends. Being away from my family (mom, sis, etc.). Being a pastor's wife. Playing church politics. The all to real chance that I'll never have a REAL friend again, because they'll be too scared of the whole pastor's wife label. That my kids will grow up shunned and labelled. That they'll never feel good enough, smart enough. That they will inherit their mom's shyness.
Am I excited about this journey? F*CK NO! I don't want to leave behind everything I know! Oh no. Can't say that! That would be the wrong answer, and would make Pastor R think that I'm not 100% behind the hubs. Then she'd write it in some report, and they'd blackball him from the process. So I have some misgivings. Who doesn't, when changing a life completely? And what would she know anyway? She's not married, no kids, nothing. She has no idea what I'm going to face. All she knows is what she's read in articles, or heard secondhand. Please. Could they get us a mentor who at least has been where we are? And one who can tell time?
Enough! I'm going to go do some mindless reading. It's called Specials. It's by Scott Westerfeld. He's good. My students like it, and now I'm hooked. I don't usually like this kind of scifi-ish book. But these are good. Really good. See you!
Thursday, September 28, 2006
No Hair Allowed
So there we were, sitting/laying on the bed yesterday afternoon. Hubs was working on the computer, checking his school email. I was laying on the bed with Colby sitting next to me. I lifted up my arms to stretch.
"Ewwww!"
"What?!"
"There's hair under there, Mommy!"
Yes, the little guy had caught me unshaven in the armpit area. Hey, I keep it covered during the day. And it's not like it was REALLY long, just about a week's worth. So I began laughing, and had to explain to hubs what was going on. Of course, he has to show off:
"Colby, Look." as hubs pulls down his shirt sleeve to show Colby HIS armpit hair.
"Ewwwwww!"
I can't wait till he's a teenager. And where did he get this hatred of body hair? Strange.
"Ewwww!"
"What?!"
"There's hair under there, Mommy!"
Yes, the little guy had caught me unshaven in the armpit area. Hey, I keep it covered during the day. And it's not like it was REALLY long, just about a week's worth. So I began laughing, and had to explain to hubs what was going on. Of course, he has to show off:
"Colby, Look." as hubs pulls down his shirt sleeve to show Colby HIS armpit hair.
"Ewwwwww!"
I can't wait till he's a teenager. And where did he get this hatred of body hair? Strange.
Monday, September 25, 2006
OLTA update
No change from last week. Still at 163 lbs. Still pretty depressed. I just haven't felt like myself lately. Maybe I need to see someone about that. Still don't have time to get active. I've got to pick up Colby every day right after school. And his stupid bag is still leaking. Damn thing. I can't wait till we meet with the ostomy nurse to see if she can help us. She's a specialist. She'll have all the answers. Right????
Week 7: School
Woo-hoo! Have I ever mentioned that sometimes, it is just fun to be a teacher? (I probably haven't, since 99% of the time I hate it.) It was fun last week. Just one day. Just one class. But sometimes that's all it takes.
I've been having some trouble with my 5th period class. They are 8th graders. Their hormones are starting to work pretty consistently. The girls are all into makeup and hair and boys! The boys' voices are changing. That is pretty damn funny. Especially when they squeak. I love it! I digress. The point is, I've been wanting to skip this class every day. I dread going. Really. And I'm the teacher.
So, on Wednesday, two of the girls came to class with nothing (we'll call them Mary and Flo). No books, no notebooks, nada. "Mrs. English said we could leave our stuff in her room. She said she'd be back after lunch." Obviously, their not having their stuff was all Mrs. English's fault.
This was not the first time they'd done this. I said:
"Flo, you have arms that work. You can carry your stuff with you to the cafeteria."
"But it's a lot of stuff. It's heavy."
"Save it! I carry stuff with me from class to class ALL DAY! I don't want to hear it!"
The look on Flo's face was priceless. I think this may well have been the first time that someone had actually talked back to the princess. This is the same child who had the NERVE to put on eyeliner in my class AFTER. I. TOLD. HER. TO. STOP.
Wednesday afternoon, I also sent an email to about 7 sets of parents, letting them know that I'd had it up to here with their kids. Needless to say, the behavior of my 5th period class has improved. There is still one that I just need to beat with a stick. And his momma is a teacher too. Kind of like preachers kids are the worst in church. Teachers kids are pretty wretched in school. I can't wait to see what my two are going to be like. They're getting a double-whammy. Preacher's kids and teacher's kids. God help them.
I've been having some trouble with my 5th period class. They are 8th graders. Their hormones are starting to work pretty consistently. The girls are all into makeup and hair and boys! The boys' voices are changing. That is pretty damn funny. Especially when they squeak. I love it! I digress. The point is, I've been wanting to skip this class every day. I dread going. Really. And I'm the teacher.
So, on Wednesday, two of the girls came to class with nothing (we'll call them Mary and Flo). No books, no notebooks, nada. "Mrs. English said we could leave our stuff in her room. She said she'd be back after lunch." Obviously, their not having their stuff was all Mrs. English's fault.
This was not the first time they'd done this. I said:
"Flo, you have arms that work. You can carry your stuff with you to the cafeteria."
"But it's a lot of stuff. It's heavy."
"Save it! I carry stuff with me from class to class ALL DAY! I don't want to hear it!"
The look on Flo's face was priceless. I think this may well have been the first time that someone had actually talked back to the princess. This is the same child who had the NERVE to put on eyeliner in my class AFTER. I. TOLD. HER. TO. STOP.
Wednesday afternoon, I also sent an email to about 7 sets of parents, letting them know that I'd had it up to here with their kids. Needless to say, the behavior of my 5th period class has improved. There is still one that I just need to beat with a stick. And his momma is a teacher too. Kind of like preachers kids are the worst in church. Teachers kids are pretty wretched in school. I can't wait to see what my two are going to be like. They're getting a double-whammy. Preacher's kids and teacher's kids. God help them.
Saturday, September 23, 2006
Greek (and other) Festivities
Greek Festival. Beautiful jewelry. Lovely crafts. Raucous dancing. FOOD. FOOD. FOOD.
We took the boys to the Greek festival tonight. I think it's always good to introduce children to other cultures. They got to see some children dressed in native costumes dancing folk dances. They loved it! They heard some festive Greek music. Bennett had a great time dancing. Well, it was more like running in circles, but it there was music playing at the time. We walked them around to look at the art exhibits and jewelry. There were these cool linen wraps with itty-bitty cymbals on them that made noise. I really wanted one, but hubs said I would never wear it. Whatever.
Then there was the food. Lamb kabobs, seasoned fries, gyros, baklava, pastries, ice cream, Greek salad, potatoes, honey puffs... the list goes on! No, I didn't have one of each. I'm still attempting OLTA. But it was so good! I did splurge and have a baklava sundae. Oh, wow. That was yummy. I shared (a little) with hubs. Mostly I ate it all myself though. I'm allowed a treat sometimes too! Bennett didn't want any ice cream. I don't see how he could possibly be my offspring. Except that he looks just like my brother did at that age. I can't explain the ice cream thing. Odd.
Last night, the family went to a wedding shower. Also odd. A whole family wedding shower? It was at a friend's house, and the kids all went upstairs to play while the adults (ahem) stayed downstairs and pigged out, I mean, talked. It was a good time. I just hope that my sons, who were by far the youngest children there, didn't scare the bride-and-groom-to-be from having children of their own. They (the kids) tend to be GREAT birth control. A couple hours with them will make any girl sit with her legs crossed for a long time. I always said that back in college. I worked as a camp counselor in the summers at a local recreation center. There were usually between 60 and 80 kids on any given day. After 10 straight weeks of them, I didn't want to even kiss my boyfriend, let alone think about sleeping with him. That's the excuse I gave him anyway. Turns out, I didn't like him enough. Who knew?
And while we're on the topic, my husband is the only man I've ever "been with." And before you all jump on the word man, and think I slept with boys before him, I did not. I'd like to say we waited until we were married, but we didn't. We waited, hmm, about 3 weeks after our first date. But I knew then he was THE ONE. No, I didn't. I knew that he made me feel things I hadn't before. Thank God we got married, because otherwise I would have felt like such a slut! A friend of the guy I was engaged to previously (another fun story) used to say that I was the type of girl who would marry the first guy she slept with. Looks like he knew what he was talking about, huh? Because I did just that. Still together, 9 years later. Married for 6. Two adorable boys. Sigh.
We took the boys to the Greek festival tonight. I think it's always good to introduce children to other cultures. They got to see some children dressed in native costumes dancing folk dances. They loved it! They heard some festive Greek music. Bennett had a great time dancing. Well, it was more like running in circles, but it there was music playing at the time. We walked them around to look at the art exhibits and jewelry. There were these cool linen wraps with itty-bitty cymbals on them that made noise. I really wanted one, but hubs said I would never wear it. Whatever.
Then there was the food. Lamb kabobs, seasoned fries, gyros, baklava, pastries, ice cream, Greek salad, potatoes, honey puffs... the list goes on! No, I didn't have one of each. I'm still attempting OLTA. But it was so good! I did splurge and have a baklava sundae. Oh, wow. That was yummy. I shared (a little) with hubs. Mostly I ate it all myself though. I'm allowed a treat sometimes too! Bennett didn't want any ice cream. I don't see how he could possibly be my offspring. Except that he looks just like my brother did at that age. I can't explain the ice cream thing. Odd.
Last night, the family went to a wedding shower. Also odd. A whole family wedding shower? It was at a friend's house, and the kids all went upstairs to play while the adults (ahem) stayed downstairs and pigged out, I mean, talked. It was a good time. I just hope that my sons, who were by far the youngest children there, didn't scare the bride-and-groom-to-be from having children of their own. They (the kids) tend to be GREAT birth control. A couple hours with them will make any girl sit with her legs crossed for a long time. I always said that back in college. I worked as a camp counselor in the summers at a local recreation center. There were usually between 60 and 80 kids on any given day. After 10 straight weeks of them, I didn't want to even kiss my boyfriend, let alone think about sleeping with him. That's the excuse I gave him anyway. Turns out, I didn't like him enough. Who knew?
And while we're on the topic, my husband is the only man I've ever "been with." And before you all jump on the word man, and think I slept with boys before him, I did not. I'd like to say we waited until we were married, but we didn't. We waited, hmm, about 3 weeks after our first date. But I knew then he was THE ONE. No, I didn't. I knew that he made me feel things I hadn't before. Thank God we got married, because otherwise I would have felt like such a slut! A friend of the guy I was engaged to previously (another fun story) used to say that I was the type of girl who would marry the first guy she slept with. Looks like he knew what he was talking about, huh? Because I did just that. Still together, 9 years later. Married for 6. Two adorable boys. Sigh.
Thursday, September 21, 2006
Tour of Testimonies
Wanted to get the word out for Lauren about her Bloggy Tour of Testimonies. This sounds like a great opportunity to praise God and really get His name out there in blogland. I will be participating on Sunday, October 1. Mark your calendars now!
Monday, September 18, 2006
OLTA: Week 5
Ugh! I did not even want to post today. I am fat. I am so fat. I am gaining weight because I am damned unhappy. Weight: 163. Ugh!
My grandma (dad's mom) passed away last Wednesday. I've been in a downward spiral ever since. All I want to do is sit around and eat peanut butter. Even chocolate doesn't make me feel better. (though I am digging the peanut butter m&m's) I miss Grandma so much! She was such a classy lady. And cool! She loved to watch Jeopardy and baseball. She was a huge Cardinals fan. She volunteered at church, at local charity shops. She liked to watch her grandkids play whatever sport was in season. She never raised her voice, at least not that I remember. But she missed my grandpa, who passed away 8 years ago. I'm glad that they are finally together again. They were married for 50 years. What a legacy to pass on!
Anyway, I didn't get to see her as often as I would have liked. I did go with the kids this summer, so at least they have a fuzzy memory of her. I got pics of Colby snuggling with her. Couldn't get Bennett to sit that still. He helped her water her plants outside though. I'm sure he loved it. So we had to drive up to Illinois. It was a 14 hour drive, one way. (Too much fast food.) Couldn't fly. Don't have the money. Got to see all my aunts and uncles. All my cousins. Including Kelly and Ian, whom I haven't seen in seven and six years, respectively. That part was great! But I miss Grandma. Looking at her at the visitation nearly tore my heart out. I felt like someone was sitting on my chest and wouldn't get up. I feel like I won't be me again, without her. But I know she's looking at me from heaven. Looking after me. That's just the kind of grandma she was.
We miss you, Grandma. We love you!
My grandma (dad's mom) passed away last Wednesday. I've been in a downward spiral ever since. All I want to do is sit around and eat peanut butter. Even chocolate doesn't make me feel better. (though I am digging the peanut butter m&m's) I miss Grandma so much! She was such a classy lady. And cool! She loved to watch Jeopardy and baseball. She was a huge Cardinals fan. She volunteered at church, at local charity shops. She liked to watch her grandkids play whatever sport was in season. She never raised her voice, at least not that I remember. But she missed my grandpa, who passed away 8 years ago. I'm glad that they are finally together again. They were married for 50 years. What a legacy to pass on!
Anyway, I didn't get to see her as often as I would have liked. I did go with the kids this summer, so at least they have a fuzzy memory of her. I got pics of Colby snuggling with her. Couldn't get Bennett to sit that still. He helped her water her plants outside though. I'm sure he loved it. So we had to drive up to Illinois. It was a 14 hour drive, one way. (Too much fast food.) Couldn't fly. Don't have the money. Got to see all my aunts and uncles. All my cousins. Including Kelly and Ian, whom I haven't seen in seven and six years, respectively. That part was great! But I miss Grandma. Looking at her at the visitation nearly tore my heart out. I felt like someone was sitting on my chest and wouldn't get up. I feel like I won't be me again, without her. But I know she's looking at me from heaven. Looking after me. That's just the kind of grandma she was.
We miss you, Grandma. We love you!
Monday, September 11, 2006
Happy Birthday Colby!
Four years ago: There was a memorial service at a local church to commemorate the first anniversary of the 9/11 attacks. Hubs wanted to go, but I wasn't feeling up to seeing people. I was 9 months pregnant and due in less than 2 weeks. About 8 o'clock, I was standing at the washing machine. I was loading the sheets and bed stuff for the new crib. My water broke. I called hubs to the hallway. We didn't know what to do. We called the doctor on call, and she said to go ahead to the hospital. They checked me out and said I was not leaving without a baby. They admitted me and started me on some kind of blood pressure medication. The next morning, they performed a c-section and I had my first little angel boy.
As I write this, I can still remember every feeling that night. I was so scared when I realized that I wasn't peeing myself, that something else was going on. Then I felt exhilaration. I was going to be a mommy! My heart pounded. We drove a little over the speed limit getting to the hospital. Oops. I stayed up all night with my friend Judy, who was also my doula. They tried to get me to have contractions, but nothing doing. I was dog tired in the morning. Judy left for about an hour to take her son to the doctor. Right after she left, the doctor came in and said You need to have this baby now. Um, okay. It was all so fast after that.
45 minutes later, I had Colby. I was kissing his tiny, perfect face. I couldn't see it too well, since I didn't have my contacts or glasses. They took him back to the nursery to bathe him and get him ready for his grand introduction. Hubs went with him. He couldn't stand to be away from his son, even for a moment.
The moment they brought Colby in to me, I knew this was it. I'd been waiting my whole life for this moment. Holding my newborn son. A new person. A miracle. A child of God. He was so little, just 6 lbs. 7 oz. He held my finger and looked up at me with those beautiful blue eyes. I fell madly, crazy in love. No one would ever hurt this little angel. He trusted me completely. And his eyes seemed to say 'It's okay mom. We can do this.' From the first sweet glance, he was mine. All mine. Four years later, and he's still my boy. I've tried so hard to do the right things. To make him a good little person, trustworthy, honest, loving. He's such a little man. Still, when I hold him (the few times a month he'll let me), his eyes seem to say 'It's okay, Mom. We can do this.' I love you, Colby. My angel boy. My sweet angel boy. Happy birthday!
As I write this, I can still remember every feeling that night. I was so scared when I realized that I wasn't peeing myself, that something else was going on. Then I felt exhilaration. I was going to be a mommy! My heart pounded. We drove a little over the speed limit getting to the hospital. Oops. I stayed up all night with my friend Judy, who was also my doula. They tried to get me to have contractions, but nothing doing. I was dog tired in the morning. Judy left for about an hour to take her son to the doctor. Right after she left, the doctor came in and said You need to have this baby now. Um, okay. It was all so fast after that.
45 minutes later, I had Colby. I was kissing his tiny, perfect face. I couldn't see it too well, since I didn't have my contacts or glasses. They took him back to the nursery to bathe him and get him ready for his grand introduction. Hubs went with him. He couldn't stand to be away from his son, even for a moment.
The moment they brought Colby in to me, I knew this was it. I'd been waiting my whole life for this moment. Holding my newborn son. A new person. A miracle. A child of God. He was so little, just 6 lbs. 7 oz. He held my finger and looked up at me with those beautiful blue eyes. I fell madly, crazy in love. No one would ever hurt this little angel. He trusted me completely. And his eyes seemed to say 'It's okay mom. We can do this.' From the first sweet glance, he was mine. All mine. Four years later, and he's still my boy. I've tried so hard to do the right things. To make him a good little person, trustworthy, honest, loving. He's such a little man. Still, when I hold him (the few times a month he'll let me), his eyes seem to say 'It's okay, Mom. We can do this.' I love you, Colby. My angel boy. My sweet angel boy. Happy birthday!
I remember...
Five years ago: We had just bought the house. We'd only been in it about 10 days. The only thing working was the TV.
I was in a temporary classroom, because mine had suffered some damage from a recent storm. My students came into second block saying that an airplane had crashed into the World Trade Centers in New York. I turned on the TV in my room and we watched the footage over and over, wondering what was going on. After about 30 minutes, the principal had the cable shut off. She didn't want the students to freak out. Our school is minutes from a major military base. They do a lot of basic training. We had a lot of military families nearby. This could be affecting some of the students, we just didn't know.
When I had a break, I called hubs. He was working for a data access company at the time. He drove around the state doing checks on properties and such. I didn't know where he would be. I didn't know if those people, who were capable of such horror, would decide that South Carolina looked like a prime target as well. I wanted to know that he was safe.
I was coaching cheerleading at the time, and we still held practice that afternoon. One of the girls didn't come, her parents wanted her at home where they knew it was safe. I wanted thought things should be as "normal" as possible for the girls. We didn't do much cheering that day. Or in the days that followed. There was no game that Friday. It was called off, in honor of those who had lost their lives.
When I went home that night, I spent the evening in front of the TV, trying to get the whole story. I couldn't believe my eyes. People jumped out of those buildings, anything to escape the horror within. Another plane had hit the Pentagon. My uncle lives in DC. Was he okay? Then the news about the brave souls on board Flight 93. Fight the terrorists? Wow.
The whole day, and the days that followed, were surreal. It just didn't seem possible that such things could happen here. In the US. That Sunday, our church was filled to capacity. I've never since seen that many folks at a Sunday service. But it seemed like everyone was there, looking for answers that no one had. Not even Pastor Barrett, who always seemed to know everything. Today, five years later, we still don't have the answers. We may never know why. But we remember the lives that were lost that day, and we honor their memory.
God bless America.
I was in a temporary classroom, because mine had suffered some damage from a recent storm. My students came into second block saying that an airplane had crashed into the World Trade Centers in New York. I turned on the TV in my room and we watched the footage over and over, wondering what was going on. After about 30 minutes, the principal had the cable shut off. She didn't want the students to freak out. Our school is minutes from a major military base. They do a lot of basic training. We had a lot of military families nearby. This could be affecting some of the students, we just didn't know.
When I had a break, I called hubs. He was working for a data access company at the time. He drove around the state doing checks on properties and such. I didn't know where he would be. I didn't know if those people, who were capable of such horror, would decide that South Carolina looked like a prime target as well. I wanted to know that he was safe.
I was coaching cheerleading at the time, and we still held practice that afternoon. One of the girls didn't come, her parents wanted her at home where they knew it was safe. I wanted thought things should be as "normal" as possible for the girls. We didn't do much cheering that day. Or in the days that followed. There was no game that Friday. It was called off, in honor of those who had lost their lives.
When I went home that night, I spent the evening in front of the TV, trying to get the whole story. I couldn't believe my eyes. People jumped out of those buildings, anything to escape the horror within. Another plane had hit the Pentagon. My uncle lives in DC. Was he okay? Then the news about the brave souls on board Flight 93. Fight the terrorists? Wow.
The whole day, and the days that followed, were surreal. It just didn't seem possible that such things could happen here. In the US. That Sunday, our church was filled to capacity. I've never since seen that many folks at a Sunday service. But it seemed like everyone was there, looking for answers that no one had. Not even Pastor Barrett, who always seemed to know everything. Today, five years later, we still don't have the answers. We may never know why. But we remember the lives that were lost that day, and we honor their memory.
God bless America.
OLTA: Week 4
Okay, so here it is, September 11. It's the day of the official weigh in for OLTA.
Weight: 160 lbs. (-1)
Yay! And last week I was all bloated and retaining water and such. Ugh! And I was craving the hell out of peanut butter. What the hell? Not pregnant though, thanks be to God.
I was just thinking about that yesterday, the not being pregnant. See, I'd gotten an email from my future sis-in-law about the upcoming nuptials. She and my "baby" brother are getting married next summer. And she's in the process of picking out what tortuous, um, beautiful bridesmaid's dresses we will get to wear. And she asked if there was a chance that my sister or I would be in need of a maternity bridesmaid dress. God forbid! We absolutely canNOT have more kids before hubs is out of school. I mean, we're spread pretty thin, money-wise, as it is. I mean, even the family at church with six kids has more money than we do!
But we're rich in love, and that's all that matters.
Damn. I have to go get Bennett from daycare now. And cook dinner. Damn hubs for having late classes!
Name Acronym Generator
From Go-Quiz.com
Weight: 160 lbs. (-1)
Yay! And last week I was all bloated and retaining water and such. Ugh! And I was craving the hell out of peanut butter. What the hell? Not pregnant though, thanks be to God.
I was just thinking about that yesterday, the not being pregnant. See, I'd gotten an email from my future sis-in-law about the upcoming nuptials. She and my "baby" brother are getting married next summer. And she's in the process of picking out what tortuous, um, beautiful bridesmaid's dresses we will get to wear. And she asked if there was a chance that my sister or I would be in need of a maternity bridesmaid dress. God forbid! We absolutely canNOT have more kids before hubs is out of school. I mean, we're spread pretty thin, money-wise, as it is. I mean, even the family at church with six kids has more money than we do!
But we're rich in love, and that's all that matters.
Damn. I have to go get Bennett from daycare now. And cook dinner. Damn hubs for having late classes!
| M | Meek |
| A | Appreciative |
| M | Mischievous |
| A | Ambivalent |
| C | Clumsy |
Name Acronym Generator
From Go-Quiz.com
Sunday, September 10, 2006
Pictures from our Day Of Fun
Colby and Bennett at the zoo.
On the carosel with Daddy.
Jump shot!
Such a silly monkey!
The Fifth Week of School
Only 31 weeks to go! Only 13 weeks till Christmas break! I'm not counting, really. This past week wasn't that bad. It was a short week (yay, Labor Day!), so I only had 4 days of the cherubs. However, I had morning duty this week. What that means is, I have to be at work 20 minutes early to stand in the cafeteria and monitor the students. Most of them are 6th graders, since that is their "official" meeting area before school. Some are 7th and 8th graders who eat school breakfast. They are all LOUD! I don't remember ever being that excited about school that early in the morning. It's probably less that they are excited about school than they are excited about seeing their friends. They are LOUD! This year, however, there is also soothing music playing in the background, like Kenny G. It's pretty funny. I don't think the kids even notice it. And I don't mean to make generalizations here, but I work in a pretty low-income school, with a lot of minority kids. I'm not sure that many of them have even heard of Kenny G. They tend to prefer 50 Cent, Nelly, and Diddy (I think he used to be P. Diddy, but I'm not sure). Those are just the rappers I am familiar with. I know there are others. But I digress. My point it, the music is supposed to keep them calm and prepare their little minds for the day's education. Right. You have to be standing right next to one of the speakers to even hear it. That's just how loud it is.
And I don't get paid extra for this extra 20 minutes either. And I have to do it every other week. Ugh! At least I'm not on car duty this year. That's when you get to stand outside, rain or shine or wretched humidity, and tell the parents "Please pull all the way forward." or "You can't drop off right there because you might get hit." or "You're holding up the other cars, please move on." Or "Are you stupid?! Can you not see the arrow pointing you to turn at this driveway?!" (I made the last one up. We are not allowed to call parents stupid, even if they are. Damn shame.) Morning duty could be worse.
My students are settling down now, except for one class. I think we are going to need a coming-to-Jesus moment in there soon. I'm about ready to meet face-to-face with some parents. I HAVE refrained from using the words "shut up" though. That's a big step for me, as I love to say that. It just gets the point across better than "Please be quiet" or "Hush". I mean, really. These are 13-year-olds. They just don't respond to niceness. Oh for the days of corporal punishment.
In unrelated news, we went to the zoo and Chuck E. Cheese's for Colby's small, family birthday celebration. It would have been fun if he hadn't been a total pain in the ass. He was whiny, he was bossy, he was showing his ass! I think the problem was that we went with the hubs' mentor from seminary, his wife, and their son. None of whom we had met previously, except hubs. So, we're all "getting to know each other" while my little family is trying to celebrate Colby. It was a little awkward for me. Maybe I'm just not good with new people. I didn't have a very good time. Colby and Bennett seemed okay though. Kids are very adaptable. Besides, who can't enjoy Chuck E. Cheese? (I will post pictures later, since Blogger won't let me right now.)
And in other, funny, news: Hubs had to go be psychologically evaluated. It's part of the ordination candidate process. I guess they have to make sure you are not completely psycho before they let you be a pastor. Anyway, he went and spend all day Friday in Charlotte taking test after test. He did one of those Myers-Briggs things. He's an extrovert. Duh. He works well with others. He has his own ideas, but also likes to get the approval of others. But some of the other results were pretty funny, and gave me ammo to use in the future against him. Apparently, he's sarcastic. Well, damn. Who knew? (me too, me too!) He has a problem with authority. Again, duh. I think that comes standard issue with any guy who has gone through ROTC. But the best one, in my opinion, was that he is SELF-CENTERED. Oh. My. God. That just confirm everything I've been feeling about him lately! How perfect! Unfortunately, the psychologist did not see this as a problem in his pursual of ministry. And she didn't diagnose his ADD. Oh, well. At least we know he's not a complete nutcase.
Going to cook lunch now.
And I don't get paid extra for this extra 20 minutes either. And I have to do it every other week. Ugh! At least I'm not on car duty this year. That's when you get to stand outside, rain or shine or wretched humidity, and tell the parents "Please pull all the way forward." or "You can't drop off right there because you might get hit." or "You're holding up the other cars, please move on." Or "Are you stupid?! Can you not see the arrow pointing you to turn at this driveway?!" (I made the last one up. We are not allowed to call parents stupid, even if they are. Damn shame.) Morning duty could be worse.
My students are settling down now, except for one class. I think we are going to need a coming-to-Jesus moment in there soon. I'm about ready to meet face-to-face with some parents. I HAVE refrained from using the words "shut up" though. That's a big step for me, as I love to say that. It just gets the point across better than "Please be quiet" or "Hush". I mean, really. These are 13-year-olds. They just don't respond to niceness. Oh for the days of corporal punishment.
In unrelated news, we went to the zoo and Chuck E. Cheese's for Colby's small, family birthday celebration. It would have been fun if he hadn't been a total pain in the ass. He was whiny, he was bossy, he was showing his ass! I think the problem was that we went with the hubs' mentor from seminary, his wife, and their son. None of whom we had met previously, except hubs. So, we're all "getting to know each other" while my little family is trying to celebrate Colby. It was a little awkward for me. Maybe I'm just not good with new people. I didn't have a very good time. Colby and Bennett seemed okay though. Kids are very adaptable. Besides, who can't enjoy Chuck E. Cheese? (I will post pictures later, since Blogger won't let me right now.)
And in other, funny, news: Hubs had to go be psychologically evaluated. It's part of the ordination candidate process. I guess they have to make sure you are not completely psycho before they let you be a pastor. Anyway, he went and spend all day Friday in Charlotte taking test after test. He did one of those Myers-Briggs things. He's an extrovert. Duh. He works well with others. He has his own ideas, but also likes to get the approval of others. But some of the other results were pretty funny, and gave me ammo to use in the future against him. Apparently, he's sarcastic. Well, damn. Who knew? (me too, me too!) He has a problem with authority. Again, duh. I think that comes standard issue with any guy who has gone through ROTC. But the best one, in my opinion, was that he is SELF-CENTERED. Oh. My. God. That just confirm everything I've been feeling about him lately! How perfect! Unfortunately, the psychologist did not see this as a problem in his pursual of ministry. And she didn't diagnose his ADD. Oh, well. At least we know he's not a complete nutcase.
Going to cook lunch now.
Thursday, September 07, 2006
I need a vacation
| You Belong in Dublin |
 Friendly and down to earth, you want to enjoy Europe without snobbery or pretensions. You're the perfect person to go wild on a pub crawl... or enjoy a quiet bike ride through the old part of town. |
Maybe I should check it out. I've never been to Ireland, though I think I would like it. Just around the Mediterranean. I KNOW I love it there. If hubs would let us, I'd move the family in a second. Hmm... a pub crawl. Haven't had one of those since college. I need to get out more. Oh, wait. I'm a mommy. I'm not supposed to do that sort of thing anymore. Oops. Guess I'll just enjoy the bike ride. Haven't done that in years either.
Wednesday, September 06, 2006
Week 3: OLTA
Ugh! Terrible week! It was the usual stress, then the hubs was out of town. Well, the diet just went to hell in a handbasket, really. I tend to not eat well when he's gone. There's no one to police me, and I have NO willpower. I ate at my mom's a couple of times, and everyone knows how bad that can be. The minute I walk in, I'm like OOOOOO, SNACKS! PLUS, there was the bday party on Monday. Can you say, cake and ice cream? Anybody want some????? Please get it out of the house!
Weight: 161 lbs. (+4!!!)
Attitude: bad :-(
I haven't been to the gym in a week. And now it looks like I may not ever get to go back. Colby's colostomy has been having some issues. The bag won't stay on. So, when he's at school during the day, and the nurse is there, no problems. It seems like every day at 3:30, when the nurse leaves, all hell breaks loose (as does the bag). So now I have to pick him up by 3:30 every day. WEll, I can't even leave work until 2:45, and it's 20 minutes to the gym. I'd have to walk in, turn around, and leave again. Hubs may be able to pick him up on Wed. and Fri., his early class days. That could help. Now, if I could just teach those papers to grade themselves, all would be perfect.
Anyway, I'm not out of this contest yet. I know I feel utterly defeated right now, with birthday cake in the fridge, but I am a fighter. I will whip all your asses! And mine will end up a size 8, dammit! It will!
Weight: 161 lbs. (+4!!!)
Attitude: bad :-(
I haven't been to the gym in a week. And now it looks like I may not ever get to go back. Colby's colostomy has been having some issues. The bag won't stay on. So, when he's at school during the day, and the nurse is there, no problems. It seems like every day at 3:30, when the nurse leaves, all hell breaks loose (as does the bag). So now I have to pick him up by 3:30 every day. WEll, I can't even leave work until 2:45, and it's 20 minutes to the gym. I'd have to walk in, turn around, and leave again. Hubs may be able to pick him up on Wed. and Fri., his early class days. That could help. Now, if I could just teach those papers to grade themselves, all would be perfect.
Anyway, I'm not out of this contest yet. I know I feel utterly defeated right now, with birthday cake in the fridge, but I am a fighter. I will whip all your asses! And mine will end up a size 8, dammit! It will!
Monday, September 04, 2006
Let's Get This Party Started
Soooo, we had a birthday party for Colby today. [It's 8 days till his actual birthday, but whatever.] My dad and stepmom, my moms, my in-laws, my sister, her husband, their daughter, and my brother were all in attendance. It was kind of a big deal. The theme: Disney's Cars. Colby LOVES that movie. We had the tablecloth, the plates, the dessert plates, the napkins, the cups, AND a cake. My moms went above and beyond the call of nana-hood for this one.
Look at the large stack of presents. Look at the cool cake.
Colby wants to be a Ninja Turtle. But he can't even get out of a sleeping bag.
Ahh, what a fun day.
Look at the large stack of presents. Look at the cool cake.
Colby wants to be a Ninja Turtle. But he can't even get out of a sleeping bag.
Ahh, what a fun day.
Sunday, September 03, 2006
Them's fightin' words
It occurs to me that maybe I have some issues. I happened across a seemingly harmless question over at mothergoosemouse. I read my response and realized that I need to get this out.
"We fight. We fight a lot. I work full time. Outside the home. With middle schoolers. He is a full-time grad student. At seminary. Studying to be a pastor. We fight about him not spending enough time with the family. About him needing to get off his butt and get a job. About ME having to get another job. About me not wanting to have sex because I’m so tired from working all day then taking care of the kids while he’s in class. But I love him and cannot imagine my life without him.
Our fighting is mostly just smartass comments said half-under-the-breath, then repeated loudly. There usually is a loud discussion next. Sometimes, there is yelling of the word “jackass”. (That’s me.) When I tell my friends about these things, they tell me he is selfish. I say that he just doesn’t look at things from my perspective. They say that is the same thing.
Let me reiterate. I love my man. I long to have him just hold me, because I’m always so exhausted. There is no one I’d rather fight with."
Now, I feel a little bit better. However, it worries me that we keep having these same arguments over and over, and things never seem to get resolved. Is that normal? Can a marriage survive when nothing ever changes. We've been having the sex fight since we had Colby, almost 4 years ago. It usually starts with me telling him no AGAIN for like the 5th night in a row. And he goes into his "you must not love me anymore" or "you don't find me attractive" whiny-thing. Which is totally not the case. I'm just tired! Why can't he understand that I'm just f*cking tired!?!
Then there's the "you don't spend enough time at home" fight. He's a volunteer with our youth group at church. He's in school full time during the day. I HATE that he spends most of his time hanging out with other people's kids, and not ours. I don't understand it. When I don't have to be at work, I leave. I don't volunteer to go back for more! He missed the first "real" Halloween with the kids last year because the youth group was having a pumpkin patch closing party. Both kids had dressed up (we had Buzz Lightyear and Woody the sherriff), and we went with my sister and her little girl. It was so fun! And he totally missed it. [That was last year. See what I mean about having issues?]
And now he wants to go into ministry full time. Allll the time. I know that being a pastor is a 24/7 kind of job. That there will be times when he has to go in the middle of dinner or whatever because of an emergency. I only hope that, by then, I will have learned to live with that. Any suggestions? And if anyone tells me to go talk to him, you know, when he gets back from the youth retreat tomorrow night, I will hunt you down and beat you.
I need a chocoate chip cookie!
"We fight. We fight a lot. I work full time. Outside the home. With middle schoolers. He is a full-time grad student. At seminary. Studying to be a pastor. We fight about him not spending enough time with the family. About him needing to get off his butt and get a job. About ME having to get another job. About me not wanting to have sex because I’m so tired from working all day then taking care of the kids while he’s in class. But I love him and cannot imagine my life without him.
Our fighting is mostly just smartass comments said half-under-the-breath, then repeated loudly. There usually is a loud discussion next. Sometimes, there is yelling of the word “jackass”. (That’s me.) When I tell my friends about these things, they tell me he is selfish. I say that he just doesn’t look at things from my perspective. They say that is the same thing.
Let me reiterate. I love my man. I long to have him just hold me, because I’m always so exhausted. There is no one I’d rather fight with."
Now, I feel a little bit better. However, it worries me that we keep having these same arguments over and over, and things never seem to get resolved. Is that normal? Can a marriage survive when nothing ever changes. We've been having the sex fight since we had Colby, almost 4 years ago. It usually starts with me telling him no AGAIN for like the 5th night in a row. And he goes into his "you must not love me anymore" or "you don't find me attractive" whiny-thing. Which is totally not the case. I'm just tired! Why can't he understand that I'm just f*cking tired!?!
Then there's the "you don't spend enough time at home" fight. He's a volunteer with our youth group at church. He's in school full time during the day. I HATE that he spends most of his time hanging out with other people's kids, and not ours. I don't understand it. When I don't have to be at work, I leave. I don't volunteer to go back for more! He missed the first "real" Halloween with the kids last year because the youth group was having a pumpkin patch closing party. Both kids had dressed up (we had Buzz Lightyear and Woody the sherriff), and we went with my sister and her little girl. It was so fun! And he totally missed it. [That was last year. See what I mean about having issues?]
And now he wants to go into ministry full time. Allll the time. I know that being a pastor is a 24/7 kind of job. That there will be times when he has to go in the middle of dinner or whatever because of an emergency. I only hope that, by then, I will have learned to live with that. Any suggestions? And if anyone tells me to go talk to him, you know, when he gets back from the youth retreat tomorrow night, I will hunt you down and beat you.
I need a chocoate chip cookie!
Saturday, September 02, 2006
I have lived...
| You've Experienced 68% of Life |
 You have all of the life experience that most adults will ever get. And unless you're already in your 40s, you're probably wise beyond your years. |
And now you know. I'm not in my 40's, so I must be the shiz-nit. I tend to agree that I have had a lot of life. There have been some really awesome times. I've had some neat experiences, like:
This is my husband and I on the Spanish Steps in Rome. We led a group of students this summer on a 9-day tour from southern Italy to Rome. We all had a blast! I cannot wait till 2008 when I get to go back!
The Fourth Week of School
Hmmm... This week was pretty uneventful. If you don't count missing half my classes on Monday due to the ever-fun and exciting fundraiser assembly. Don't get me wrong, I understand that the PTO needs money. They do all sorts of wonderful things for the teachers at my school. These include: breakfasts from Chic-Fil-A, class sets of books, various other classroom stuff, little goodies during Teacher Appreciation Week, and a steak lunch at the end of the year. They are super nice people, who always seem to be smiling when you see them. (That part can be creepy, but whatever.) What I don't like about fundraisers is the lame prizes. Oooo, if you sell just ONE item, you get these "cool" blinking sunglasses. If you sell 10, you get to miss class to go out to lunch and ride in a limo. If you sell 20, you get out of class early to watch the BMX bikers. I mean, seriously. BMX bikers? I teach at a school that is primarily low-income. How many of these kids really want to watch a couple of guys do tricks on their bikes? Of course, they DO get to skip class.
And that's another issue. Is this fundraiser stuff teaching the students that making money and selling things (which are cheap and badly made) is more important than learning and going to school? I mean, they are getting them out of class. Sometimes more than once, since the limo lunch and BMX things are actually on different days. Nice. I think it would be different if they held these events after school. But then the students wouldn't be as motivated to sell and raise money, would they? Oh well, I lose.
That was about all for this week. I'm still fighting a losing battle with my 8th graders' mouths. I tried the "stand at the front of the room and glare at them silently" approach. They ignored me completely. I tried yelling "HUSH!" at the top of my lungs. That worked. For about 10 seconds until the shock wore off and I actually began the lesson. Then they started up again. I've started giving them pop quizzes when they won't be quiet. That seems to be working with one class. The other one is beyond hope. There are just too many bodies in one room - right. after. lunch. Ugh!! Again, I lose.
However, this reminds me about a 20/20 special I watched about 10 minutes of last night. I was then so incensed that I asked my hubs to turn it off, lest I attack the man in front of the camera. I believe the name of it was "Stupid in America." It was about how public schools are making students dumber. Oh, man, did it push my buttons! I have no illusions about working in public education. I know that it sucks. I know that the schools are tough, and the kids are rowdy, the halls are crowded, and there are kids slipping through the cracks. These things need to be changed. However, this special placed all the blame on the teachers, and that is where the issue lies.
It is not all our fault. Yes, there are bad teachers out there. There are boring teachers. There are teachers who have no business being anywhere near students, because they are stupid! BUT, there are a lot of really good teachers out there. There are teachers who make almost every day fun and exciting for students. Teachers who love to teach. Teachers who are so brilliant, it almost hurts to be near them. But do the news shows do stories about them. No, because that's not going to sell. Who wants to hear about that cool English teacher who dresses up like a genie and calls herself "Grammar Genie" when it's time to start the boring stuff? Who wants to hear about the science teacher who lets the kids disect a cow's eye and worms and cockroaches? Who wants to hear about the history teacher who has the kids write and perform their own monologues, dressed up as a key historical figure? Who wants to hear about the Latin teacher who has the students make up songs to learn about the imperfect tense? (yeah, that's me)
No one.
And that is sad. It hurts me to the core that our education system is as bad as it is. It is half the teachers fault. But the other half of the blame goes home to the parents. The parents who let their children stay on the Internet half the night, and the other half the night on their cell phones. The parents who send their kids to the local park to play ball instead of doing their homework. The parents who don't sit down and read with their elementary students, then wonder why the kid is reading below grade level a few years later. The parents who can't follow simple instructions like "Not a drop-off area." They are showing their children that learning isn't important. That THEY aren't important. It all starts at home. We need parents to teach their children that learning is important. That respect is important. That THEY ARE IMPORTANT.
And now I will get off my soapbox.
And that's another issue. Is this fundraiser stuff teaching the students that making money and selling things (which are cheap and badly made) is more important than learning and going to school? I mean, they are getting them out of class. Sometimes more than once, since the limo lunch and BMX things are actually on different days. Nice. I think it would be different if they held these events after school. But then the students wouldn't be as motivated to sell and raise money, would they? Oh well, I lose.
That was about all for this week. I'm still fighting a losing battle with my 8th graders' mouths. I tried the "stand at the front of the room and glare at them silently" approach. They ignored me completely. I tried yelling "HUSH!" at the top of my lungs. That worked. For about 10 seconds until the shock wore off and I actually began the lesson. Then they started up again. I've started giving them pop quizzes when they won't be quiet. That seems to be working with one class. The other one is beyond hope. There are just too many bodies in one room - right. after. lunch. Ugh!! Again, I lose.
However, this reminds me about a 20/20 special I watched about 10 minutes of last night. I was then so incensed that I asked my hubs to turn it off, lest I attack the man in front of the camera. I believe the name of it was "Stupid in America." It was about how public schools are making students dumber. Oh, man, did it push my buttons! I have no illusions about working in public education. I know that it sucks. I know that the schools are tough, and the kids are rowdy, the halls are crowded, and there are kids slipping through the cracks. These things need to be changed. However, this special placed all the blame on the teachers, and that is where the issue lies.
It is not all our fault. Yes, there are bad teachers out there. There are boring teachers. There are teachers who have no business being anywhere near students, because they are stupid! BUT, there are a lot of really good teachers out there. There are teachers who make almost every day fun and exciting for students. Teachers who love to teach. Teachers who are so brilliant, it almost hurts to be near them. But do the news shows do stories about them. No, because that's not going to sell. Who wants to hear about that cool English teacher who dresses up like a genie and calls herself "Grammar Genie" when it's time to start the boring stuff? Who wants to hear about the science teacher who lets the kids disect a cow's eye and worms and cockroaches? Who wants to hear about the history teacher who has the kids write and perform their own monologues, dressed up as a key historical figure? Who wants to hear about the Latin teacher who has the students make up songs to learn about the imperfect tense? (yeah, that's me)
No one.
And that is sad. It hurts me to the core that our education system is as bad as it is. It is half the teachers fault. But the other half of the blame goes home to the parents. The parents who let their children stay on the Internet half the night, and the other half the night on their cell phones. The parents who send their kids to the local park to play ball instead of doing their homework. The parents who don't sit down and read with their elementary students, then wonder why the kid is reading below grade level a few years later. The parents who can't follow simple instructions like "Not a drop-off area." They are showing their children that learning isn't important. That THEY aren't important. It all starts at home. We need parents to teach their children that learning is important. That respect is important. That THEY ARE IMPORTANT.
And now I will get off my soapbox.
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