Face to the Wind

New book...

2011-12-19T18:03:00.000-08:00

Looking forward to reading this one... It comes out in February, but you can get a sneak peek.

Rainshadow Road

I love winter--let's me read more now that I don't have to go to work!

I am one of "Lisa's Divas" - a group of select fans who share info & content related to Lisa's novels and get sneak peeks & swag in return.

Personal Best

2011-08-05T17:53:00.001-07:00

Thought I would post this so that I would remember. Oh, and update the ol' blog before it goes by the wayside.

Again.

So, I have taken up running. Well, running is a generous term. More like jogging. On the treadmill only. And yesterday, I actually did 1/2 hour instead of my usual 20 min. (3 min walk/3 min jog/repeat). I was SO proud of myself!!!

Finally Broke Down and Did It

2011-07-23T10:12:00.000-07:00

I am quite sure that there have been years when I have been excited about buying stuff for my classroom. I was full of anticipation, plans, and excitement.

This was NOT the year. Yesterday, I went shopping for the notebooks that I use to make sure that

The kids don't lose everything I give them
They don't destroy everything I give them
They don't claim that I never gave them something I already gave them

Umm. Target, what's with the pile of 600 notebooks and only allowing me to buy 25? You know this just means that I have to go to multiple Targets, right?

Fortunately, I need fewer this year than last and I managed to go to only three stores. At one, there was a couple behind me and they asked me if I was a teacher. I replied, "yes", and then they asked me where I taught. When I told them, they hightailed it out of my row? Really?!?!?! So odd. I got the idea that they did not like my district. Oh well.

I went for a 4 mile walk yesterday. Woo hoo! And did not even need to stop and take a break while going up a hill. That's progress. Now if someone would tell the scale that it is allowed to move backwards, I would be eternally grateful.

Todays plan is to finish reading at least 2 more of the 8 books I have somehow found myself in the middle of--no, I have no idea how it happened. I used to NEVER be able to read more than one book at a time. Now, I cannot help it. Maybe it's just because none of them are completely awesome. In any case, it shrinks my TBR faster!

Going to enjoy my lazy Saturday!

The Hundred Dollar Store Gone Green

2011-07-18T18:17:00.000-07:00

Today has been a completely lazy day at home. I just love those sorts of days--especially since I don't get them during the school year. Just seeing the light at 1:00 p.m. is a treat when it comes with no children in it. Ha!

After exercising today (the usual on the treadmill and some running; YES, I said running. Not a lot yet, but enough to make my face turn as red as a tomato. I feel SO accomplished!), we went to Target (The Hundred Dollar Store, since I can never make it out of there without spending at least that much.). True to form, I spent more than $100.

The school supplies were SO much more expensive this year--and they all had limits on them. I was not really in the mood to buy my usual 30 boxes of crayons and 120 notebooks, but I was even more discouraged when I saw the prices. I think I am going to have to shop around a little more this year instead of just going to Target and getting everything.

As we were walking toward the cash register, my chatting mother turned an appalling shade of green. Seems as though someone felt the need to hurl. Although we made it out of the store alright, she has been put to bed and given the night off from--well, everything. She did not eat much today, so I don't think it's food poisoning, but I do hope that the hurling does not actual happen!

Granted, I felt a little green when I saw my Target bill....I go in for 3 things, and I never make it out with a full wallet.

(deep sigh)

On a side note, church was good yesterday. Sunday night's lesson made me want to read Genesis again. *That* is an accomplishment that should make my pastor proud.

If Only I Had Waited, I Know I Could Have Slept

2011-07-12T17:35:00.001-07:00

I could not sleep last night. I was up until 2:00 a.m. thrashing around and counting sheep. Even the kitty was sick of me. She cast a sleepy eye at me and just shook her head. (Not really, of course).

I should have waited to try to sleep. I went to the most BORING professional development in the history of the world--and I have to to go to 2 more days.

Grr...

Mouse on a Wheel

2011-07-11T18:44:00.000-07:00

After tutoring, Mom and I went for a walk around the local park. Around and around the local park. The walk felt eternal--after only twenty minutes.

We decided to walk in the neighborhood instead. Much better.

Random things:

Have to go to training for the next three days. How am I going to do that when I no longer get up until after 9:00 am?!?!
I really want to see "The Help" when it comes out.
My mother just freaked herself out. She thought it was Tuesday--when she has a church meeting. And...it's only Monday. She was thrilled.
It's going to take me 700 years to watch 4 seasons of "Lost".
Turns out that the spiritual aspect of losing weight CANNOT be neglected without consequences.

Time for dinner!

Resistance to Kindness

2011-07-09T14:27:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I had an opportunity to be kind. My act of kindness was at no financial cost, little cost to my time or energy, and not difficult to do.

And I passed the opportunity by. I told myself that my little act would not matter, that no one would notice if I did nothing. After all, I was only marginally involved in this person's life anyway.

They may not have noticed that I was not kind. But they sure did notice when NO ONE took the time to be kind. And I realized that I was part of the NO ONE. For my ignoring the opportunity, I got a big, heaping bag of guilt.

I deserved it. I was truly selfish and unkind. The truth was that this person has done hurtful things to me in the past, and while I am no longer angry, I felt OK about withholding a little from her. Not Biblical, I know. I learned a lesson from this. My little act of kindness may not change the world, but it can make another person's load a little lighter.

I know that when we miss an opportunity to obey God and we repent, He usually sends around another opportunity. I am watching for it. = )

And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you. Ephesians 4:32

A Perfect Day

2011-07-08T12:58:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I went to D**neyland with two of my friends. We had such a great time. It was hot (really, really hot), but the park was not too crowded. Unusual for a day in July.

We went on the usual rides, of course. Pirates, Haunted Man*sion, Spl*sh Mountain (my personal favorite), and Spac* Mountain. For Splash, I sat in the front of the toboggan and got drenched! I was wearing a hat and kept my head down, so my face and hair were dry, but my shirt and pants were SOAKING. I am glad that neither turned out to be see-through. = ) We dried off in a few hours.

The food at the park has improved so much since the last time I went. Turkey and provolone with sweet potato fries for lunch and salmon and rice for dinner. And everywhere you went, they were selling fruit. I was amazed.

People watching. This lady looks like she got dressed in the dark.

We went on the Disney train, which is something I don't remember ever doing. It went all around the park. I found it hilarious that it went from the Grand Canyon....

to dinosaurs....

in the blink of an eye. It was so old school...I loved it. I don't remember ever seeing it before. We also went to the petting zoo and saw the cutest goats ever. The lady that cleaned up after them was awesome. The minute the goats did their business, she was right there to clean it up. They had the cleanest pen I have ever seen. An unsung hero!

The lines were not long except for St*r Tours. My mom told me that they have some new attraction there, so that might explain it. No big deal, though. Not my favorite and we got to go on all the rides I like. It was hot, but we had a blast!

I was HOT, but happy!

Grrr...

2011-07-06T16:41:00.000-07:00

So, I assumed that I would not have to go to the post office again for a while. But, I got a package returned today for incorrect postage, so I have to go back tomorrow. Grr...

I went to Petsmart today. If it were not for Jessica's special food, I really would not go. It is so sad to see the kitties waiting to be adopted. I wish I could bring them all home. There was a gray kitty who looked so sad to be in that cage. (When I was a little girl, I would burst into tears at the pet store.) I have a cousin who will NOT get her kitty spayed even though the kitty is on her second litter this year. I just don't get it. Why would you want to bring more kitties into the world when the ones we already have are not all adopted??! I mentioned this to her, but she ignored me. Grr...

Bought cat grass for Jessica, but not enough soil to transplant it. Grr...

Grr...

I am cracking myself up with the "grr". I am actually in a good mood. I'm going to Disneyland tomorrow! Woo hoo! It's been at least 5 years since I have been there. The last time I was there, I parked in the big parking structure and could not figure out how to get out. I just went around and around--not realizing that I was not going down for about five minutes. I only figured it out when I saw a truck and thought, "Hey--I've seen that truck before!" Duh--I had driven past it about 10 times.

Grr to that too!

Oh Thou Long Neglected Blog

2011-07-05T22:57:00.000-07:00

I think I need to detox from Facebook. Really. No, really. It's only been a week of summer vacation and I am already sick from spending so much time on that site! Drat you iPhone for making it easier.

In the meantime, the blog languishes. No more! I will rectify the situation. Really. More posting here--less reading there! No, really.

I already love summer. No students. Just lots and lots of blissful free time. For the kitties. For reading. For doing absolutely nothing.

Jessica Kitty got a refill of her pills today. (She has a heart murmur.) I was just glad that she did not have to go into the vet's office. I have a pathological fear that overtime she goes in, she won't come out. Sad, I know. She is holding her own, though. Today, she jumped from the chair to the couch. No small feat for an older kitty like her.

Just rambling, I know. But, I wanted to let the world--oh, who am I kidding. I am probably the only one who reads my blog!--know that I have decided to resurrect the old blog!

Huzzah!

The End of Four Days of Bliss

2010-05-31T22:31:00.001-07:00

It's Monday night, and I have to go back to work tomorrow. Gack!

I am watching an episode of Hoarders right now. I feel so sad for these people. I cannot imagine what it must be like to live that way and to feel that way about stuff. Very sad.

Anyway! Just checking in here!

20 Questions

2010-05-30T20:11:00.000-07:00

1. when you looked at yourself in the mirror today, what was the first thing you thought?
I really need a shower!
2. do you miss anyone right now?
I miss not a person, but a place. Tennessee? I am thinking about you.
3. if you could move anywhere else, would you?
See #2.
4. if you could choose, what would your last meal be?
Chicken enchilada, a taco, beans, and rice. And a big ol' piece of cake at the end.
5. what famous person, dead or alive, would you want to have lunch with?
Jesus.
6. what was the last book you read?
June Bug by Chris Fabry. It was just OK.
7. what was the last movie you watched?
A Tree Grows in Brooklyn. Amazing and adorable. (Oh wait--I watched some scary movie after that, but I cannot remember the name of it.
8. what was the last song you heard?
The Blood Will Never Lose It's Power
9. what is your dream vacation?
A tour of Europe.
10. what is the next trip you will take?
Maybe to Texas this summer.
11. did you ever go to camp?
Yes, I went to church camp.
12. have you ever been in love?
I thought so once. But now, I don't think so.
13. what do you want to know about the future?
Nothing!
14. where is your best friend?
She is sitting across the room reading a book. Hi Mom! Other BFFs: one in Washington, one in Texas.
15. how is your best friend?
All fine, I think.
16. who is the biggest gossiper you know?
One of my coworkers, for sure.
17. what does your last text message say?
"We are not at work!" or something along those lines.
18. what are 3 things you've always wanted to do, that you still plan to accomplish?
write a book, move out of California, become a librarian
19. what is one thing you learned from your parents?
Don't talk back you your mother. The simple things in life are the best things.

20. what is one thing you hope to teach to your own children?
Don't know that I will have any, but I want kids to know that kindness is important.

Things I Learned Watching Living Art

2010-04-05T18:28:00.000-07:00

Last week was Spring Break for me. Can we all say "Amen and Amen"? I was exhausted and needed the break. One of the only events for which I was willing to leave the house was a show called "The Pageant of Our Lord". The event consists of famous pieces of art that contain cutouts that real people fit into. You cannot tell where the living people are unless you look really closely--or if you sit close enough to see them move.

I was totally prepared for this great spiritual event that would boost my sagging spiritual life. I sat among my fellow church-goers, listened to the choir, and watched as each art piece was displayed.

And felt absolutely nothing. I *wanted* to meditate on God. I really did. I wanted to mediate on Easter and the meaning of the cross.

But, there were so many things that were going on in that sanctuary. I was getting more and more irritated the more that I sat there. Until, finally, I realized, "What if God is trying to speak to me through these issues?" That thought changed my perspective on the event entirely. Some of the things that I observed:

~There was a row of complete loudmouths behind me. They would not stop talking. I really wanted to turn around and tell them to stop talking. While they were not in a church service, they were in a church building watching an event that people had paid money to see. My blood was boiling. Didn't they realize that their talking was not the commentary that I wanted? I whispered to my mom, "Why can't those idiots just shut up?"

³Your adornment must not be merely external--braiding the hair, and wearing gold jewelry, or putting on dresses; ⁴but let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the imperishable quality of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is precious in the sight of God. 1 Peter 3:3-5

~In order to look closely at the people that were in the art (let's face it--to see if they moved!), I had to look at a screen since I was sitting too far back to really see the people. I grew tired of turning around and looking back over and over again--and I grave myself a serious crick in my neck.

It made me think about all the times that I turn around to look back in my own life. Thinking about how things used to be better. Simpler. Easier. Thinking about how hard it is now.

¹³Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, ¹⁴I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. Philippians 3:13-14

~I had spent all week lazing around on the couch, but still I was not excited to go to the event. I think it has something to do with my hermit tendencies. Once I an on vacation, I typically don't want to go anywhere. So, this event, which was probably the most spiritual reflection I had done all week produced no delight in me. Just a sense of resentment that I had to leave the house (and get dressed up!) Nevermind that it would give me time just to sit and meditate on God. I wanted to stay in my comfy, holey clothes at home.

O God, we meditate on your unfailing love. Psalm 48:9

~I guess one of the goals of this event is to try to determine which of the characters in the artwork are real and which ones are just painted in. This led to a lot of "Ohh! The little boy moved!"; "That woman turned her head a little." The beauty of the art and the spiritual aspect was lost as we nitpicked on the performers. That made me think about the judging I do.

How can you say to your brother, 'Brother, let me take the speck out of your eye,' when you yourself fail to see the plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye. Luke 6:4

Even though I did not get the refreshing I wanted, I did get a spiritual lesson. (Note: I wanted to write this in a much more eloquent manner, but I am wiped out from the first day back!)

I Totally Meant To Write Sooner...

2010-01-25T20:18:00.001-08:00

But, life, once again, has taken over.

I am just popping over to say that I am still alive. And I have no desire to grade papers. = )

First Day Back

2010-01-11T18:01:00.000-08:00

Do I have energy to sort through more bathroom pictures? Umm. nope.

Today was my first day back to school after a three week vacation. Some observations:

1. The longer I am on vacation, the more messed up my sleep schedule gets. Last night, I went to bed at 2:00 a.m. That does NOT make for a happy teacher. I was not even really sleeping at 2:00. I catnapped for 30 minutes, stayed up, catnapped again. Miserable.

2. My kids are much taller. And they seemed to be pretty happy to see me. I think they matured some over the break.

3. So nice to have adult conversation. Even if the conversation is only about how we don't like going to the bathroom on schedule.

4. I knew someone would not do their vacation homework. FOUR somebodies did not do their vacation homework.

5. The break did a lot for my attitude.

6. I am glad that I cleaned my room well before the vacation. I would have been miserable to have come back to a messy classroom.

and finally.....

7. We are now 6 months away from the end of the school year. = )

My New Girly Bathroom

2010-01-07T15:01:00.000-08:00

In the midst of car repairs, plumbers, and various errands yesterday, I went looking for a bathroom rug. Mom had bought me a white one, but white rug + Regina = disaster, so I went looking for a pink one.

Who knew they were so hard to find?!?! The ones I found were either too pink, not pink enough, etc. So, I went to Bed, Bath, and Beyond. I have never been in that store before--but BOY HOWDY! They have everything. When the Tribulation hits (if the pre-Trib rapture people are wrong and we have to stay here!), I want to be trapped in a BB and Beyond. They have everything! I went looking for a rug and saw the CUTEST shower curtain ever mass produced.

The hooks for the curtain:

The new wall hangings:

Here is the rug that goes with it:

There is more cute stuff that went with it, but I cannot figure out how to get my Photo Share camera to cooperate. I will try again tomorrow!

One Thing Leads to Another

2010-01-06T13:39:00.000-08:00

This is the last week of Christmas Break (I very nearly typed "Winter Vacation") and it is the week to get serious about all of those things I have been putting off.

So, off I went today to the car dealership to get an oil change--only to discover I also need a new battery. No problem.

Off to the post office to mail Christmas presents(yes, Christmas presents. Don't judge me!). Only to realize that I forgot to take a picture of the finished gift. (I'm blogging vaguely on the off chance that Angela will read this blog.)

Today, the plumber came out to fix our valve-a-ma-gigger. Only to leave his tools behind--and to leave one of the water spouts off.

Am I the only one sensing a theme here? It seems like when you try to fix one thing, there is always something else that goes wrong! Why bother fixing anything?!!?! Let's just leave it all broken and avoid all surprises!

Quitting

2010-01-02T19:35:00.000-08:00

I think I coughed my way to a headache. I have had the crud for about a week, and honestly, I was sick more in 2009 than in the previous 5 years. Hopefully, this is due to drug resistant germs and not because my immune system is sensing the looming BIG 4-0 and starting to slow down.

I was thinking about posting pictures today, but my camera is once again AWOL. You would think that if you buy a red camera, you would be all set and able to find it whenever you needed it. Nope. I have not seen it for days. And I still have not figured out how to get pictures off my camera phone.

The movie "Signs" is currently on TV. Remember Joaquin Phoenix? He sort of dropped off the face of the earth a few years ago. I am sure that when his movie career started, he was so excited and energized. Then, one day he finally said "enough is enough" and let it all go. Sort of sad when someone strives for something for such a long time and then finds out that it is not all that he wanted it to be.

But isn't that the way life is? We look at things and think they are so wonderful until we actually get them and we realize that there is more heartbreak in them than we anticipated. Of course, we don't all decide to walk away. But, we do get a reality check. Those cute babies are a lot of work. That new job requires more hours and more patience than we seem to have. A new relationship comes with more bumps and bruises than we anticipated. Frankly, it is probably amazing that we don't quit more things than we do.

Thank God for the gifts that help us not to quit: prayer, the Word, friends and family.

Please note that this post has nothing to do with resolutions. I have not made any--so I don't have to worry about quitting on those. (Although the desire to lose 20 pounds has been duly noted and catalogued. To be dealt with after tonight's root beer float).

Crafting Ahead!

2010-01-01T16:11:00.000-08:00

Not sure how many of my friends read my blog, so I will remain vague until the project is done. I have spent a good part of my vacation making a Christmas gift for one of my best friends. I am nearing the end and SO excited to be near to sending it off to her. (Angela, you'll get it in January!)

I was thinking today how important it is to do fun stuff you like to do. Honestly, in the course of everyday life, that is one of the first things to go. Stuff that is just pleasurable. There is just so much work related, cleaning related stuff to do. But what is life worth if the only thing you do is work?

Happy New Year!

2009-12-31T19:37:00.000-08:00

Normally, I write out a list of resolutions and look over past lists of resolutions before I go to bed on New Year's Eve. This year, I decided to mix it up a little. First, I am going to put the list on my blog instead of writing it out. Then, I can look at it again next year without having to tear apart the house looking for the file.

Secondly, instead of a list of impossible things to do next year, I have decided to list what I have learned this year. In no particular order:

1. God is faithful. We began the year with unemployment and now, Mom has had a job since May. From November 2008-April 2009, she was unemployed. I was scared about so many things. Paying the mortgage, the car, etc. It all worked out and I know that God was taking care of us. We have been able to support others (since Mom got her job) who have been in need, so a bad situation was turned into good.

2. I have an entitlement philosophy. I don't want to do things that are hard, uncomfortable, or not fun. Unfortunately, I don't always get to decide whether or not I have to do those things.

3. A quiet life is just about the right speed for me. I truly enjoy the simple things I have been given. I am a homebody at heart.

4. I can deal with more than I think I can. Even though I don't want to. Even though I cry and fall apart.

5. I have made a difference in a child's life this year. Many children actually, And even though I sometimes doubt that I make enough of a difference, I know I did some good this year.

Instead of making resolutions, I have decided to give this year a theme. I was really touched by Anna Voscamp's (Holy Experience blog) and her desire to call this the Year of Yes. I have thought and thought and that theme--the theme of Yes--seems like a really good idea to me. So, welcome to the Year of Yes.

Yes, I can.
Yes, I can exercise.
Yes, I can write more.
Yes, I can pray more.
Yes, I can commune with God in the Bible.
Yes, I can learn to control my tongue.
Yes, I can make a difference.
Yes, I can live with more grace and less judgement.

I already think that I really like the Year of Yes. May 2010 be a terrific year.

Because I Am Tired of the Bucket List...

2009-10-24T17:44:00.000-07:00

I decided to post on this neglected bloggy of mine.

Life has been just a bit busy with the start of the school year. The kids are coming along. Last week was a pretty good week. Big improvement from the beginning of the school year, although we still have days that make me want to pull my hair out. Last weekend was Family Fun Day and last Tuesday was Back to School Night, so it is nice to have those milestones out of the way.

Back to School Night was fine. I did two presentations about expectations, etc. for the new school year. We were supposed to close down around 7 p.m., but one of my parents came in at 6:45. I did a really quick presentation just for her and she told me how much her child enjoyed being in my class.

She cried when she told me that I was the only person who "got" her son. He has some issues with pouting and some social issues. Apparently, he shuts down with everyone--except me and her. I was so touched by that. Made my day.

Last night, a friend and I went out for barbeque and to the movies. We saw "An Innocent Man". I had never heard of it, but it was pretty good (although I hated the ending). It's about a Jewish family in the 1950s. The husband's life starts unravelling around him and he tries to cope. It was not my usual type of movie, but it was thought provoking, funny, and had a lot of great lines. It was a Coen brothers movie (my friend assured me this makes it likely to be good), so if you have not seen it, give it a shot.

This has been a really quiet weekend so far--my favorite kind. Napping, reading, kitties. Love it!

The Bucket List

2009-10-06T21:48:00.001-07:00

So, I have still not posted. Hmmm.... I'll do a Bucket List instead of thinking of something creative.

Place an X by all the things you've done and remove the X from the ones you have not. Things you have done during your lifetime:

() Gone on a blind date
() Donated Blood
() Skipped school
( ) Watched someone die
() Been to Canada
() Been to Mexico
() Been to Florida
() Been to Hawaii
(x) Been on a plane
( ) Been on a helicopter
(X) Been lost
( ) Gone to Washington, DC
( ) Hugged a homeless person
(X) Swam in the ocean
() Swam with Stingrays
(X) Been sailing in the ocean
(X) Cried yourself to sleep
(X) Played cops and robbers
(X) Recently colored with crayons
( ) Ran a marathon
(X) Sang Karaoke
( ) Volunteered at a soup kitchen
(X) Paid for a meal with coins only
( ) Been to the top of the St. Louis Arch
( ) Seen the Northern Lights
( ) Been Parasailing
() Been on TV
(X) Done something you told yourself you wouldn't
(X) Made prank phone calls
( ) Been down Bourbon Street in New Orleans
(X) Laughed until some kind of beverage came out of your nose
( ) Fed an elephant
(X) Caught a snowflake on your tongue
() Fired a gun
(X) Danced in the rain
( ) Been to the Opera
(X) Written a letter to Santa Claus
(X) Serenaded someone
( ) Seen a U.S.President in person
() Been kissed under the mistletoe
(X) Watched the sunrise with someone
( ) Driven a race car
() Been to a National Museum
(X) Been to a Wax Museum
() Eaten caviar
(X) Blown bubbles
() Gone ice-skating
(X) Gone to the movies
( ) Been deep sea fishing
(X ) Driven across the United States
() Been in a hot air balloon
( ) Been sky diving
() Gone snowmobiling
( ) Lived in more than one country
(X) Lay down outside at night and admired the stars
(X) Seen a falling star and made a wish
(X) Enjoyed the beauty of Old Faithful Geyser
(X) Seen the Grand Canyon
( ) Seen the Statue of Liberty
( ) Gone to the top of Seattle Space Needle
() Been on a cruise
(X) Traveled by train
(X) Traveled by motorcycle
(X ) Been horse back riding
() Ridden on a San Francisco cable car
(X) Been to Disneyland OR Disney World
(X ) Truly believe in the power of prayer
() Been in a rain forest
() Seen whales in the ocean
( ) Been to Niagara Falls
(X) Ridden on an elephant
( ) Swam with dolphins
( ) Been to the Olympics
( ) Walked on the Great Wall of China
( ) Saw and heard a glacier calf
() Been spinnaker flying
() Been water-skiing
() Been snow-skiing
( ) Been to Westminster Abbey
( ) Been to the Louvre
( ) Been to the top of the Eiffel Tower
( ) Swam in the Mediterranean
(X) Been to a Major League Baseball game
( ) Been to a National Football League game
() Been White Water Rafting
() Written a book or screen play

I have come to the conclusion that I am just not the adventurous sort!

I Just Realized....

2009-09-17T21:49:00.001-07:00

That I have been completely neglecting this little bloggy of mine.

I blame the children.

Of course, I blame the children for everything.

The right of every school teacher....

I'll blog tomorrow. TGIF!

Missing Caption? BUT I DON'T WANNA GO BACK TO SCHOOL!

2009-09-02T08:18:00.001-07:00

see more Lolcats and funny pictures

Seriously, going back to school is not that bad. The biggest challenge is getting the sleep schedule back on track. I've been doing better. I went to bed at 11-something instead of 2-something.

I have a feeling that I am going to need all the extra energy that I can get.

Antidote to No Post--One of Those Listy Things

2009-08-25T16:22:00.000-07:00

Since I am enjoying the longest summer ever (feels long since I have not gone anywhere!), I have become a little on the lazy side. So, I am going to use this list instead of a blog post. Thanks to the bloggers that I stole this from. = )

Three names I go by:

1. Regina
2. Reggie
3. Gina

Three jobs I’ve had in my life:

1. Elementary school teacher
2. Body part/radiator salesperson
3. Counter person at a sandwich shop

Three places I’ve lived:

1. California
2. Missouri
3. Utah

Three favorite drinks:

1. Diet Coke
2. Sweet tea
3. Dr. Pepper

Three television shows I watch:

1. The Amazing Race
2. I Love Lucy
3. Judge Judy

Three of my favorite foods:

1. Chicken Parmagiana (every time I spell that I get the squiggly line. Have no idea how to spell it.)
2. Macaroni and Cheese---oh yummy!!!
3. Cake

Three of my favorite restaurants:

1. Olive Garden
2. Ruby's Diner
3. Chik-Fil-A

Three things I couldn’t live without:

1. My family--including my mom and the kitty cats
2. Books
3. My computer

Three things I can’t stand:

1. People who are mean and then think the people that they are mean to are idiots
2. People who hurt children
3. Mushrooms

Three things I’m decent at:

1. Being a daughter
2. Writing letters
3. Teaching kids

Three things I’m looking forward to this weekend:

1. Sleeping in
2. Reading
3. Spending time with the kitties

Three things I’m addicted to:

1. Paperback Swap
2. Post-its
3. Writing letters

I'm slowly collecting more pen-pals. I am SO excited. Makes me happy. (Anyone else want one? I would write to you! Just ask Lisa!)

Nothing in the way of life updates. Summer is nearly over and on Thursday, I am going in to work to plan. I am excited to see the 4th grade teachers again. and soon---all the kids!

Friday: Five Random Thoughts

2009-08-21T10:36:00.001-07:00

1. Since I read Lonesome Dove this summer, I now totally understand the miniseries. Whenever I turn it on. At whatever point. Since it is on the Hallmark Channel nonstop these days. Seriously, that channel repeats shows like I have never seen before. I like reruns--but the same show ten times in two days? Even I get sick of that.

2. I can smell school in the air. Smells a lot like a freight train bearing down on me. My friend, Angela, who has already started school, is already feeling the pain. I am next. Goodbye summer....

3. I don't think that I am cut out for Facebook. I cannot think of random, witty things to post there. No one wants to read "Got off the couch today", "Doing laundry right now", or "Need to put more TP on the roll". When school starts, I predict that my meager Facebook-age will decrease to nearly nothing. One can only post "Need to grade papers" so many times before 134 friends' eyes begin to glaze over. (And no, I am not sure that I put that apostrophe in the right place.)

4. Word to the wise: Corn, while not the enemy, is not meant to be consumed in mass quantities. In one day.

5. I did The Biggest Loser Workout (one of them, at least) this week. My body is not into lunges. My thighs hurt for days. But that's good, right? Means that some muscle that has up until now only tried to suck calories out of the ice cream I ate for dinner--actually worked. Gonna try to do it at least once a week.

Have a great weekend!

What I Actually Read

2009-08-18T22:24:00.000-07:00

I am the worst blogger! I post so infrequently.

My mother and I cleaned tonight. We call it "The 90 Minute Clean". Each of us cleans like crazy for 90 minutes. You would be surprised how much you can get done in that amount of time. I actually cleaned before the 90 minutes--I started this afternoon with a living room and bathroom touch-up. During the 90 minutes, I put new clothes away, vacuumed, and Mom cleaned her bedroom. I love a clean house!

Since summer is nearly over, I thought I would update how far I got on the summer reading list.

I reread Jane Eyre. Still love it.

I read Lonesome Dove. That was an awesome book. Really. Go read it right now. It was an easy read and SO good.

I read Gone With the Wind. I loved it. I totally understand why Rhett left Scarlett now. She deserved it!

I did not make it through the other books on the reading list, but I am proud of what I did. Those books are LONG!

Now, I am reading a young adult book and trying to get used to the fact that summer is ending. Only two weeks left.

On another note, Mom survived her first week of her new job--and she loved it. Praise be to God!

Doesn't Anyone Just Name Their Kid John or Mary Anymore?

2009-08-09T11:36:00.001-07:00

I was looking on the Knoxville News website today and found a list of the children born in the area.

http://www.knoxnews.com/news/2009/aug/09/080909births/

(For some reason, cannot get the link to work.)

Apparently, there are lots of ways to spell Alexander--and none of them are the traditional way.

Abbygail?

Cason? (I think that's what it was.)

If these names are any indication, I will be messing up children's names on the first day of school for years to come.

Something to Share

2009-08-07T16:11:00.001-07:00

Mom got a job today. She is going to be working for an insurance company, helping to investigate insurance fraud.

Praise the Lord for his blessings.

For keeping us financially safe since November.

For helping us to cope in the long months of nothing happening.

For providing a temp job which led to this permanent job.

For the assurance that He would take care of us.

Even if she would NOT have been hired for this job--praise the Lord for His blessings.

And, yes, we did a little shopping!

Dogs Worth Posting About

2009-08-04T17:59:00.000-07:00

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The picture is too big, but the caption reads: "Sometimes the prince has four legs."

I am NOT a dog person. Anyone who know me well knows that I love cats.

But dogs have really risen in my estimation this summer. Not that I have had much physical contact with dogs.

I read The Art of Racing in the Rain and I loved the dog in that book. Even if you hate NASCAR and dogs, you will love that book.

At my pastor's house, I met their little dog, Lego. Who loved me. And licked me all over. And was adorable. Little bitty dog, but lots of fun.

And then I see this picture which totally adds to the cuteness.

It's only fair I post about dogs--since this is clearly a cat dominated blog. Equal rights people, equal rights.

Nothing to Blog About

2009-07-28T21:53:00.000-07:00

Summer is going fine. Nothing exciting at all going on around here. I mean, that's good because it means that I am relaxing and recuperating from the past school year.

Last week, I went to lunch with a friend from work. That was the highlight of the week.

Must go....am boring myself....

Oh! And I am realizing that I usually post on Tuesdays. Why, or why is that?!?!

Hopeful, Happy News

2009-07-21T09:53:00.000-07:00

Mom may have a job. Not official yet, since she is still temping, but there is an opening and there is buzz that she may be the frontrunner for the position.

Can we say, "Oh, happy day"?

On other fronts, it is just TOO hot here to do much of anything. I did go to the deliciousness-that-is-Target yesterday to pick up some stuff for school this coming year. I had boxes and boxes of spiral notebooks and I wanted to put them on the bottom rack of the cart.

Except there WAS no bottom rack! Huh? Instead, I was offered "help out"--which is a euphemism for "We don't think you can handle all this stuff you bought"--which I refused.

My cart was so full that it looked like I was buying out the school supply department. It would have looked WAY better with a bottom rack, lemme tell you.

Off to do something summery!

Taking a Break....

2009-07-14T11:38:00.000-07:00

From CLEANING.

I am working my way through the house. Doing one of those deep cleans. Moving all the furniture, getting under the cushions (who knew we dropped so much popcorn as we eat it? I feel sympathy for people who clean movie theaters!), and dusting everything that does not run away from me.

Yesterday was living room day. I went and bought a new rug because the old one was looking horrible. I found a perfect rug--matches every piece of our furniture, and was the perfect size. I was a little worried since Mom was not with me. but I went ahead and bought it anyhow. She loved it.

(I need to backtrack a bit....

Over the weekend, Mom went looking for a rug. I stayed home. She called me on the phone.

"Hey, Reg. I found some rugs."

"Oh, did you find one that would work?"

"Yes, but I am not sure that you would like it. It is a little.....wild."

"Mom, DO NOT BUY THAT RUG! We will keep looking."

For the record, I have more boring tastes than she does. Anything printed, dotted, striped, flowered, or plaid catches her eye. I like plain stuff. Yes, we have argued in furniture stores. Yes, the salespeople think that we are going to come to blows. No, I have never hit her. And we have mostly avoided wackadoo furniture choices--even if I have to pretend that I am about to faint just as she hands over her credit card to buy the blue-and-purple-polka-dotted-flowered-plaid chair.)

Back to the rug...

It makes the living room look great! That means I have deep cleaned 4 rooms of our house. Next is the dining room, which is easy and won't take long at all.

On other fronts, it has been super hot! Well, not Texas hot. But hot enough for California, Even the kitties don't want to move. Me either. I am taking up all my hobbies that require no physical exertion.

Who am I kidding?

It's not like I play soccer. ALL my hobbies require no physical exertion.

In that case, I will just carry on....

P.S. Making NO progress on reading the classics this summer. Finished Jane Eyre. Haven't felt like reading much lately.

A Tale of Two Kitties

2009-07-11T16:31:00.000-07:00

I have a deeper post brewing in my head, but it's Saturday, I'm hot, and I need to find a Diet Coke STAT.

I was getting the sheets together today to wash them (the housecleaning streak continues!) and I had to contrast the two kitties that were in my bed.

Mind you, the temperature is somewhere in the 80s today.

Sam Houston is on the bed, sitting nicely. All I have to do is wave my hand in front of his face to get him to look up and make an adorable picture.

This is Jessica.

Need I tell you that these cats are nothing alike?

This Video Cracks Me Up. And where is the nearest Chik-Fil-A? Not fair that I have to drive for 15 minutes AND go into a mall to get to one!

2009-07-09T12:10:00.001-07:00

A Very Late 4th of July Weekend Post

2009-07-07T11:01:00.000-07:00

Since I have NO interest in watching the Michael Jackson Memorial service (and that is all that is on TV), I am going to blog instead. Sounds like a fair substitute to me.

We ended up driving and going to see my mom's twin sisters, my aunts Carla and Paula. They live in the more northern part of the state, and we usually only see them on Thanksgiving. It was nice to see them in a different season. It was a laid back 4th--barbeque, fireworks in the street, and an excuse to eat everything in sight.

My fat rolls are truly happy.

And expanding.

And worrisome.

Let's not dwell on that.

We took a few shots from inside the car. This is Ogle, the Tennessee possum. He hangs from the rearview mirror, supervising.

For some reason, I did not take many pictures of people. I think I was distracted by the deviled eggs. I usually only get them once a year, but my cousin's daughter, J., loves them and specifically requested them. I love that girl. Since I am hardly domestic, I was charged only with peeling the eggs.

It was an opportunity for me to pretend like my badly peeled egg was an alien from another planet. And he talked.

Mom had fun with the olives.

We took a pass road that was supposed to save us time by helping us avoid traffic, but I am not sure that it worked. Santa Barbara traffic was the pits. But...I digress. To make sure that we did not run out of gas on the pass road (which has NO place to stop), we took a detour into Los Alamos. It's a pretty little town. Emphasis on little.

Mom loves the ocean, so she took pictures out the window as we passed some of the state beaches. We have never stopped at a single one, but they provide nice scenery for the drive.

It was great to take a holiday away from home. Nice and restful. Now, I am back to chores.

Cleaning the house.

Can't we go back to the beaches instead?

Is There Something Wrong With Being an Orphan?

2009-07-01T22:30:00.000-07:00

Today, I did virtually the same thing I did on Monday. Went to IKEA, Target, and the Post Office. It's nice to get out of the house! Partially because when I stay IN the house, all I can think about is CLEANING the house.

At a bus stop, I saw this advertisement for the upcoming movie "Orphan". It seemed a little creepy, so I came home and looked up the info. It is a movie about a couple who adopt a girl from an orphanage after their unborn child dies. They go to an orphanage and are drawn to a girl named Esther. She seems sweet, but strange things start to happen and they find out that she is not all she appears to be. Methinks (based on the poster) that she is evil in some way.

Umm...is this really the message that we want to send out about what happens when families adopt children? I know it is a movie, but c'mon. Children who are abandoned by their parents, for whatever reason, have to live with the stigma of "orphan" already. Many find a life full of loneliness, abuse, and a sense of unworthiness. I cannot imagine what a child who was in foster care must feel like.

Scratch that. I can imagine what they feel like. I deal with children every day and I have taught foster children. Some of them have social dysfunction and learning problems. To be sure, some children are well-adjusted no matter what their environment is, but this is usually not the norm. It is profoundly sad that some children do not have anyone to call "Mother" or "Father".

In the olden days, orphans were seen as those who could manage despite tragic circumstances. Anne (of Green Gables), Rebecca (of Sunnybrook Farm), etc. These orphans were taken in by family members (and in some cases strangers) who came to realize what great kids they had. The orphans were the heroes--the creative, clever, and interesting children who rose above their circumstances.

Now, "orphan" is evil.

(Yes, I can say that the movie is not going to be responsible for orphans all being seen as evil. Just trying to make a point.)

Really, truly, aren't we all orphans in some way? Like the poster says, there is something wrong with each of us. Not a one of us is righteous. We are all looking to belong to someone, to connect. It is one of the deepest needs of humankind--to be loved and accepted.

And we can have that.

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ. For He chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in His sight. In love He predestined us to be adopted as his sons through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will— to the praise of his glorious grace, which he has freely given us in the One He loves. Ephesians 3:1-6

I am glad that God adopts us into His family. And does not paste pictures of our worst selves on bus stops.

Bad Service, Great Management!

2009-06-27T20:37:00.000-07:00

I desperately needed new bedroom furniture (maybe pictures tomorrow, if I charge the camera!) so Mom and I went to the local Goodwill today. Nothing worth having, so we decided to go to Ikea instead. I don't normally go there because I find it so...confusing. I mean, writing stuff down, having people pull it, looking for the Self-Serve area. What in the world!?!?! But, I *need* furniture. I have had my bedroom furniture since my teens and it is collapsing.

We found some really cute stuff, so I got a 4 drawer dresser, a 3 drawer one, and 2 night stands. My mother, my favorite putter-together, is currently assembling the drawers. I cannot wait! My current furniture is more long than it is high, and since my bedroom is SO small, it means that there is no room in there. This new stuff is HIGHER, so I may get more room.

To celebrate, we went to Chili's for dinner. We were seated and...ignored. GRR!! I hate that and it makes me fiesty. I counted how many of the wait-staff passed our table and when I got to 6, we decided to walk out.

We passed the little stand where the hostess is and I told her we were leaving and why. It just so happened that the manager was standing there. He talked us into going back to our table, took our order himself and got us underway. He even offered us a free appetizer.

We were apologized to by the male manager, the female manager, our waiter (who finally appeared), and our new waitress (who took over for our waiter). When it came time for the bill, the waitress told us that the bill was taken care of and that she was sorry.

On our way out, the manager made a point to invite us back and to make sure that we knew that they wanted our business and hoped that we would be back.

It was so nice to get such great customer service. You bet we will go back. I had offered Mom the dinner in return for putting together furniture, so I got off CHEAP!

I'll have to think of something else nice to do for her instead. Think she would like breakfast in bed?

The First Full Day of Summer

2009-06-23T19:14:00.000-07:00

After yesterday's teacher work day, I was really looking forward to today--the first official day of summer. Not the ACTUAL first day of summer, but the actual first day of this teacher's summer. What a bliss and a delight!

Since I stayed up Sunday night until 4:00 a.m., (I was talking on the phone. You KNOW who you are! But it was completely fun and I would not trade the phone call for any amount of sleep) I was pretty tired yesterday. You would think this would mean I would have gone to bed early last night, but I fell asleep around 12:30.

I am completely ashamed of what time I woke up, but I think the number started with a 10. I spent the day watching TV, checking computer stuff, and reading a bit. I also went to the post office to mail Paperback Swap books, and I am now doing laundry. Oh--and there was a trip to Barnes and Noble for a celebratory book. Ok--books. My favorite way to celebrate!

What a hotbed of excitement I am. Woo hoo!

Here are a few things that I love about the first day of summer:

Wearing pajamas as long as I want.

Cuddling the kitties who seem to know that the alarm clock will not be ringing for awhile.

Reading and not having to think that I should be grading.

TV--reacquainting myself with the shows I like. Today, it was "I Love Lucy".

I feel as though I accomplished SOMETHING. I *did* take a shower, and I *did* leave the house. Yeah, ME!

I have about 100 pages to go in Jane Eyre. I just love Mr. Rochester. Even though he is a bit brooding. And married already. And a bit overbearing. I love him just the same. My mom has no interest in reading about Jane, so I give her updates on the book. She just rolls her eyes at me.

BTW, Mom got the word that her temp job is going to end on Monday. Then, they came back and told her that she would be needed for a couple more weeks. Something for which to thank the Lord! I am still praying that they will find something for her to do permanently. Or that something else would open up for her somewhere else.

I'm off to finish my book!

Classic Literature on the Summer Reading List

2009-06-19T22:53:00.000-07:00

I survived the last day of school. I miss my kids already. Teaching 4th grade is nice since I know that I will see the kids again in the fall. (When I taught 5th grade, they moved on to another school and I was sad not to see most of them again). The kids made me about 300 cards/posters/notes and best of all, they helped me pack my stuff. I only have a bit left to do which I can surely accomplish on the teacher work day on Monday.

I have started rereading Jane Eyre. I read this book umpteen years ago and I thought it was time for a reread. Poor Jane--she is so mistreated. I love her willingness to stand up for herself, even in the face of mean people. (Please note: Can you tell that I am not reviewing it as a hoity-toity literature person?). I LOVE this book.

Some other classics that I am planning to read/reread this summer:

Gone With the Wind--been meaning to read this forever.

the Emily books by L.M. Montgomery--I read the first one, loved it, and never made it through another.

Emma

Reread of Pride and Prejudice. Have not read this one since high school, but am totally interested in a reread. Although I cannot find my copy right now.

(Classic?) Lonesome Dove--highly recommended by a friend.

The Phantom of the Opera. Not sure why I want to read this one, but I do.

The Count of Monte Cristo. I know a lot of people who love this one.

I need to read SOMETHING from Dickens, as I have bought nearly all his books--and read NONE of them.

I want to reread To Kill a Mockingbird.

And I think I am going to try, yet again, to read Wuthering Heights. This would be attempt #8 or so. I don't know what it is, but I cannot make it through the first 50 pages. So far, I am not getting why people love this book so much. Just don't get it.

I cannot think of any more off the top of my head that I am dying to read. If I do, I will add to the list. I love the classics!

I am a Ding Dong

2009-06-19T16:37:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I went to a coordinator's office at my school. The coordinator is a friend of mine and I just wanted to talk to her before the school day was over. She shares an office with a fellow support staffer at my school.

Do you ever put things in your pockets and forget what they are? Well, before I went to their office I had put a....product necessary to females each month...in my pocket.

The support staffer, who I shall name Dude Who Is Now My Hero Since He Did Not Acknowledge An Awkward Moment, was on the way to my room to get some licorice.

We were standing outside and we chatted for about 15 minutes. I put my hand in my pocket and, no kidding, here were my thoughts.

"I was on my way to the bathroom. Wait! What is this in my pocket? I never carry things in my pocket. Was this something that I needed to turn in to the office?"

Out came the product. He did not even bat an eyelash as I hastily shoved it back in my pocket.

My face, however, turned as read as my arms.

I am a ding dong.

Tomorrow is the Last Day..YAY! BOO!

2009-06-18T19:55:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is the last day of school. Good thing because I am really tired.

It has been a really rewarding and fulfilling year. I have enjoyed it immensely and I think my students are amazing. One of my best classes ever. I am going to be really sad to see the kids go, even though since they will be in 5th grade next year, I will still be able to see them.

Did I mention I was tired? Really tired?

Today, we went to the park across the street from my school. I was so smart--I used oodles of sunscreen on my face and it did not burn at all.

I think I forgot my arms. I would post a picture, but my camera is in need of a charge. And it would make you wince.

I LOVE this picture

2009-06-14T14:27:00.000-07:00

This is so cute. I wish my kitties would wear costumes. If I tried, they would shred all the furniture. And my legs.

This kitty IS a superhero.

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Remember This?

2009-06-13T23:25:00.000-07:00

This was one of the books my mother gave me as a child. I loved it then, and I love it still.

more epic win

A Scare at the Zoo

2009-06-13T07:55:00.000-07:00

This was a caption on an AOL photo of Mike the Gorilla.

Caption:
Officials at South Carolina's Riverbanks Zoo and Gardens think 16-year-old Mike, above in 2004, was the gorilla that used low-hanging bamboo to escape from his enclosure Friday. There were three gorillas in the exhibit, and they aren't able to say for certain it was him.

Ummm....I am pretty sure the other gorillas DID know that it was Mike, but stringing together a sentence was quite a challenge for them.

Field Trippin'

2009-06-10T18:05:00.000-07:00

This was the week before the last week of school and we packed up and went on a field trip today. We went to a park to play, ate at McDonald's and Taco Bell, and then went to the Science Center.

This was a sculpture at the park. They had sprinkled the ground liberally before we arrived, so the kids ended up a little muddy. They barely noticed. One girl fell and I had to call her dad to come pick her up. He was awesome--he arrived right away and whisked her off.

The kids bought TONS of useless junk from a vendor. Remember those trick gum dispensers where one stick is poking out and if you grab it you get a shock?

We bought more of those than should be allowed by law. And we fooled nearly no one with them.

I had a parent who had the inside scoop about the places in the museum that were the least busy. It was awesome not having to fight the crowds.

Overall, it was one of the best field trips I have ever taken. Only six more days of school.

I am going to miss the pumpkins when it's all over.

P.S. I got a NEW camera. That is why you FINALLY see pictures (other than those I steal from icanhazcheezeburger.com).

Profundity

2009-06-08T18:30:00.000-07:00

Today, my students and I were reviewing some vocabulary words for an upcoming test. One of the review strategies I use is to create a motion that goes with each word. Sometimes, this helps the kids to attach meaning to words that they would otherwise forget.

After practicing the motions and going through synonyms and antonyms, I called on a girl, J., to help me with a task. We were going to do a skit based on the meaning of a word and the other students would guess which word it was.

For "aggressive", we each pretended to make fists at each other.

For "manuscipts", we pretended to be writing a book together and we assigned each other pages to write.

For "signed", we both did the letters of American Sign Language.

When we got to the word "profound", J. was stumped. I whispered in her ear.

"Let's just ask one deep question after another. You know, deep life questions."

J. nodded.

I started.

"Why do some people get sick and others don't?"

"How can we both love people and also hate them?"

"Why do we fight for freedom?"

J. was looking at me, stumped about what to say. I continued.

"Are people born good or bad? Who teaches people to behave badly?"

J. looked at me thoughtfully and then asked her first profound question.

"How did I know when I got up this morning that I should wear these pants and this shirt?"

I'll give you all a moment to think about the depth of this question.

This attitude...

2009-06-02T17:10:00.000-07:00

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From humans, this attitude is awful and ungodly.

From cats, this attitude is funny and cute. Go figure.

Speaking of attitudes, I find myself having one at work quite a bit lately. It is the end of the year, and most of us teachers are just DONE. Still love the kids, still teaching, but I am ready for the promised summer break. This weariness leads to a lot of grumbling and complaining on my part, as well as a lot of looking around at other people.

To be honest, I work with a lot of really nice people. And some grouches. And some downright difficult personalities. When I am all prayed up, I find it much easier to handle all three groups. (I guess this is my confession that I am not completely prayed up.) When I am not, I find myself increasingly unable to deny occupancy to the negative thoughts that want to move into my head.

You know that "whatever is true, whatever is lovely...think on these things" verse? I really need to meditate on that verse because it feels like I have been drowning in mental sludge.

Adding to the sludge pile is my absolute refusal to do any exercise. With no Mt. LeConte looming on the horizon, I have taken the opportunity to get fat and sassy (as my mom would say). Unless I want to sleep away all my summer, I really need to inject some energy producing exercise.

On a positive note, Mom's temp job paid her so I get a financial break in June. Praise the Lord!

What ARE you waiting for?

2009-06-01T18:25:00.000-07:00

From Stuff Christians Like:

I went over to this site today and they were talking about getting married (StuffChristiansLike.com). I thought this list was funny, particularly for us girls who are still living the single life.

And I qoute:

And since SCL (Stuff Christians Like) really likes to provide opportunities for self evaluation, please use this handy timeline to determine where you’re at and what you’ll face if you continue to deny God’s call to married life:

17 or younger: Too young, unless you were born in the 50’s or one of THOSE states
18-19: We feel uncomfortable, but hey you’re married and the baby will be legit
20-21: Great age to wed, particularly if you’re going blue collar
22-23: You met the love of your life in college – we’re so happy for you
24: We were starting to get nervous, but you didn’t let us down
25-27: Well, at least you got the hint, it just took a little nudge
28-29: OK, you really had us scared. You may be a late bloomer, but all will be forgiven if you start popping out babies right away
30-33: We’re holding a special prayer meeting backstage on Sunday mornings just for you
34-35: Don’t be surprised to see your name and availability in the church bulletin from time to time
36-39: YOUR BIOLOGICAL CLOCK IS ALMOST DONE TICKING – DON’T DELAY!!!
40-44: I’d like you to meet (Harry/Jane). He/she only has 2 children and they’re fairly well behaved
45-49: Have you ever thought about mail order? They do spouses
50+: If you’d gotten married sooner, you too could be looking for your second or third lifemate (after all, we’re more comfortable with people who rushed it, got divorced, and then remarried – it’s like they succeeded twice!)

I am squarely in the BIOLOGICAL CLOCK ALMOST DONE TICKING category. Where are you? (A special shout-out to my favorite married friends who stop by this blog. Not a one of you has ever said any of these things to me--or thought them).

Somethin' 'Bout A Baptist Potluck...

2009-05-31T18:29:00.000-07:00

After church today, we had a potluck. It has been a while since we had one, so it was nice. (As a side note, I am not a great potlucker. I don't cook, rarely remember to bring food, and often bring the drinks. Or leave Mom to cook.) We Baptists love our potlucks.

We had grilled carne asada, chicken, and every imaginable side dish. And some unimaginable ones. The things that women can do with ingredients. There is Ramen noodle salad, some weird dump cake that tastes awesome, and some hominy dish. We did not have these at today's potluck, but they have been brought in the past. I love these homey recipes. I feel a little badly for those dishes that don't get eaten. I try to take a scoop of the dishes no one else does (I love an underdog).

This post seems sort of rambling, but I am having some trouble with my eyes. They are really blurry right now, which I think is a product of a new eye makeup remover and an afternoon nap.

Only three more weeks of work. I cannot wait until summer!

New Classes Chosen

2009-05-30T17:07:00.000-07:00

On Friday, we finally made the choices for the classes for the new school year. It was anticlimactic (I hope I spelled that right) because we all basically knew what was going to happen. Still, it was a nerve-wracking experience waiting for it to happen.

I have been asking myself some questions lately (some related to the choosing of classes, some not). I am afraid that I don't have any answers to the questions, but I will ask them nonetheless.

Why don't people just come right out and tell YOU things that impact you instead of telling others who THEN tell you? It seems like a coward's way out to tell someone else.

Why do some people seem to get what they want just by asking for it while others, who voice the same ideas, are basically ignored? (note--this has nothing to do with God giving me what I want. I am not ranting about God's blessing some while others suffer.)

Why does it feel so good to be "in the loop" when you do not respect some of the people in that loop?

Why has it never occurred to me that listening to my own thoughts all the time is not a good idea? What have I been saying to myself and is it true? What am I doing to combat thoughts that are obviously wrong?

Why do I deny myself fun things because I am worried about looking like a dork when I do them? (The world will not end if I look like a dork.)

I feel like I spend more time on this blog asking questions than I do actually writing about my life, but it helps me to process things to ask the questions out loud. With school coming to an end, I have a little bit more time to spend on things other than grading, etc.

There are three weeks left of school and I cannot wait for summer, even though I will miss my students terribly. My student teacher came back to visit yesterday and left a DVD of the slide show she made for my students. She also left all of the pictures that she took. It was a priceless gift. I am going to enjoy the pictures for years to come.

There is just something about my kids dressed up like 49ers that makes me smile.

Today was Tuesday. It felt like a really long Monday.

2009-05-26T16:56:00.000-07:00

see more Lolcats and funny pictures

Memorial Day

2009-05-25T18:55:00.000-07:00

The sad truth is that I do not know any current soldiers serving our country.

It seems as though soldiers have been forgotten with all the talk of the economy, the President's choice for Supreme Court Justice, and who won American Idol. But, we ARE still fighting wars around the world. And there are people, men and women, who willingly go to serve their country--leaving their own families and friends behind.

I am grateful for the sacrifices that these soldiers make. And I remember those who are not with their families today because they are separated by miles. I also remember those who never made it back.

I thank the soldiers who protect our country. God bless America.

An Intrigue Afoot

2009-05-21T15:49:00.000-07:00

So, we are still about a week from choosing our classes for next year, and the amount of scheming/planning/worrying is at a fever pitch.

It almost feels like we are spies and dealing with espionage.

It makes me tired.

I Hear Voices...

2009-05-20T20:01:00.001-07:00

Mom had a little glitch at the temporary job today. Nothing major, really. She had to deal with a lady who got mad at having to wait, so she went and complained. So, she got a little reprimand.

Which made both of us upset. Which made me think.

Why do even tiny negative experiences upset us so much and why do we remember them so long? I can name a thousand experiences that have been slightly negative (a reprimand, criticism, confrontation, etc.) and I can practically tell you a play-by-play of what exactly was said.

Positive comments? I usually completely discount or don't really process.

What's up with that? Maybe I just think it is prideful to think about those things. I don't know. Once, I toyed with the idea of starting a "Nice Things" journal full of the nice things that people say about me--just to use to counteract my thinking when people say not-so-nice things. Then, I thought that might be prideful. LOL!

I'm going to do it anyhow. Someone told me that I should write a book yesterday. She liked my writing. I was tickled by that.

Maybe shutting down the negative voices means paying more attention to the positive ones.

Been Doin' a Lot of Writing....

2009-05-19T21:05:00.000-07:00

So, I wrote a bunch yesterday. I am writing chapters of a book I am writing for my students (sort of an action-adventure-fantasy that will include the names of all my kids). I wrote lots of letters and I must say I had a blast.

I am thinking that I am going to give each students a copy of the book on the last day of school. They will be so excited. This might be the start of a new tradition with my classes.

I also challenged my kids to write 75 page books themselves. Some of the kids took up the challenge and have written far more pages than I have. The end of the year deadline is fast approaching.

That is why I finally got myself in gear. I think I work better under pressure. It is not high literature, but it is my first attempt to write a book. It is exciting to me. It is really a not-so-great first draft, but the kids are totally enthralled. I love seeing their faces when they listen to it.

Wherever you are, write something today!

Mama Bear

2009-05-18T15:28:00.000-07:00

Today we had a problem at school. One of the novice teachers I know (nameless, of course) said some things to another teacher's students. The kids were behaving badly. The things she said were over the line. The reaction of the other teacher was swift. There was no way that she was going to let anyone talk to her kids like that. She was not flaming mad--just upset and concerned.

As she rightly should have been. These students are hers. It's almost like having someone bash your own biological kids. I know that it sounds weird that you get so attached to the kids. But some of us do. (Not all--if I taught middle school, I am not sure that I would be super-attached. Elementary school is different.) It made me think of a mama bear--ready to protect her young from danger.

I am totally like that with my students. Don't get me wrong--I am no pushover. I am strict and the kids have to deal with rules. There is no free-for-all in my class. But I will run over you with a steamroller if you are over the line. These are MY kids.

Makes me think of God a little. Think of how many times He stands up for us. Even when we are behaving badly. And I am sure, that even when our behavior is not the best, He makes it clear to everyone to whom we belong.

Not sure if He has a streamroller. = )

I Suck at MultiTasking.

2009-05-17T22:59:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I was trying to finish the last 15 pages of a really good book before the THREE HOUR Survivor show started. I was also trying to do two loads of laundry. Because I cannot read with the TV on, I had to mute the commercials.

I was having a hard time. The ending of the book was awesome, and I could only read about 2 pages per commercial.

Then I had to check the laundry.

And no kidding....just when I thought I could not get any more busy....

The earthquake hit. 4.7. Just a few towns over.

I kept watching the show and the book didn't even fall on the floor. The cat ran, but she eventually came back.

Apparently, I am better at multitasking than I thought.

The Other Reason I Sleep Like a Pretzel

2009-05-16T20:55:00.000-07:00

Meet Jessica Elmer. Let me just tell you. She owns the bed. She just lets me visit.

Will You Trust Me?

2009-05-16T20:03:00.000-07:00

Oh, what joy the weekend brings. Just something about 2 1/2 days with nothing to do. Except read, sleep, and eat (no need to brown bag it on the weekends!)

The selection of classes for next year has been put out, as has the seniority list. It sort of sucks. I am nearly in the middle of the seniority list (15/36), but there are always people ahead of me who seem to get what I want. It happened when I was in 5th grade and it is going to happen again this year. I am not really complaining (uhh....Regina....you kind of are), but I know that I am not going to get the class I want next year. My friend is ahead of me on the list and she is going to take the class I want. I even talked to my principal and put my two cents in about how I would like the classes done. Not that it is going to happen the way that I want it. It is NOT going to happen the way I want it.

God, I think I see a spiritual lesson here. Many things going on in my life right now are not the way I want them.

I don't want to deal with the unemployment situation.

I don't want to manage my money so tightly.

I don't want to miss my summer trip to Tennessee.

I don't want to deal with being single. And wanting to be married someday.

I don't want to deal with my students when I am mentally exhausted.

I don't want to start exercising. I don't want to think about food.

I don't want to...I don't want to...

And yet, God always seems to be asking me, "Will you...?"

Will you respond in faith?

Will you trust Me?

Will you do things that seem to hard for you? Will you believe that I am with you, even if you cannot see Me? Even if you think you see evidence that I don't care?

Will you trust Me?

Chiseling Hurts, But God Knows What He is Doing.

2009-05-15T16:15:00.000-07:00

Enjoy this video. And praise be to God that He never quits loving and working on us.

One of the Reasons that I Sleep Like a Pretzel

2009-05-14T22:30:00.000-07:00

Meet Sam Houston.

I Don't Care How Poor I Get. I Am Not Eating Something That Looks Like It Has Already Been Eaten.

2009-05-14T17:36:00.001-07:00

Like the rest of America, we have been trying to save money. Needing every extra dime to provide for a roof over our heads will help you conserve money like nothing else, let me tell you. So, I have been scrounging around the kitchen each day to fill my brown-bagged lunch.

The pickin's are slim. Some days, I eat cheese and crackers. Other days I eat leftovers. I resorted to a bagel once. I talked myself once into an "All Fruit Wednesday"--fruit cocktail was the highlight, a brown banana the lowlight.

So, yesterday, I was searching the kitchen for something. Anything. I grabbed a jar of Trader Joe's chicken stew that had been in the cabinet for a while. (The same bottle that nearly got put into the mailman's food drive bucket earlier in the week.)

It's Trader Joe's brand. It has to be good! (For those of you with the misfortune of living without a Trader Joe's, it is a grocery store with eclectic offerings. Not really a full service grocery store. More like a regional store. Hard to explain. More words are not really helping.)

It looked awful. It smelled awful. I heated it up anyhow. I can suffer for a day! Lunch does not have to be great! Lunch only has to sustain me for the afternoon. It will look better/taste better/smell better hot.

Ummm....not so much.

I bought a burrito (yumm...beef, bean, and hydrolized vegetable protein wrapped in a hard little tortilla) for $1.50 in the cafeteria.

Worth every penny, I say.

Floats to the Rescue

2009-05-13T16:13:00.000-07:00

So, today was a another day at school. We are still taking the CST (California's version of student torture....ummm...the California Standards Test) and we are on the math section. Only one more day to test tomorrow and then the rest of the year. I really teach differently when the pressure of testing is off, and I am excited that I can give the kids a sort of preview for what to expect next school year. The fifth grade teachers should give me a crown if I can get the kids a head start on fractions, decimals, and percents.

My students are very affectionate and it seemed like everyone thought I was amazing today. (This does NOT happen every day, let me assure you.) One of my kids even told me, "You really are a great teacher. You taught me everything that was on this test. You really did your job." I wanted to crack up--getting a performance review from a 4th grader, but frankly, I think I would rather have a performance review from the students than anyone else.

I also had a kid have a total meltdown today. Typical for him, sad to say. It sucks when you have an older brother that pounds on you and I guess that might lead you to have trouble in school. Sometimes, you just want to scoop up the kids and take them home with you, I tell you.

On the job front, Mom started a new temp job today. Woo hoo! At least she had somewhere to go today. I am making enchiladas for dinner as a treat (Stouffer's to the rescue!) and ice cream floats for dessert.

Ice cream floats can elevate any day to a red-letter day.

My First Post

2009-05-12T19:44:00.000-07:00

I suppose that the first post on this blog should be profound and important.

Unfortunately, I spent so much time figuring out what I wanted to do here that my profound and important has gone to sleep. I tried to wake it up, but it refused to budge.

That'll teach me.