I'm very much feeling the cheese of the Christmas Spirit today. Shopping for others is TOO MUCH FUN!! :)
(It's also quite nice to have a J-O-B to allow me to buy what I really want to buy.)
By the way ... The Glee Christmas Album is a fantastic listen for the holiday.
Or, you know, it could be just be all the glitter I've sniffed over the last few hours while wrapping presents ...
THANKSGIVING!!!!!!!! (Almost.)
I'm so excited, I could squeal. Today is all about tidying the house ... THEN ... I'm going to TRY to finish my Christmas shopping. I know! Before December even begins. It's so awesome, I don't even know what to do with myself. :)
I have a truly blessed existence.
One of my students stole my wallet out of my purse today. I'm very disheartened and ... sick ... about it. I advocate like hell for them, I do everything in my power to help them out, I spend almost all of my "free" time trying to plan and prepare and figure out ways to assist them in passing and doing better, then one (or more) does this.
It's not about the money, or the information, or the debit/credit cards, or the pictures ... it's about so little care or respect that they don't even blink.
It had to have happened during one of the passing periods when I stand outside my classroom door because that is the only time I am not in the room monitoring. It also had to be one of my own students who I teach every day because my purse was very well hidden ... which means they had to have been paying attention for a while.
I'm absolutely sick about this, and have no idea how I am going to walk into my classroom and look all of them in the face tomorrow morning. Gross.
I have been ironing for the past 30 minutes, only it feels like I have been doing it all day. I swear, if I never had to iron another piece of clothing or take out another bag of trash, my life would be complete.
In completely unrelated news, progress reports are going out tomorrow. This means that I spent all day Saturday grading papers. It could have been worse, of course, but I'm certainly ready to get my evenings and weekends back. Unfortunately, I'm not seeing this happen anywhere in my near future. These teaching/coaching hours are NO JOKE!
Again, I would seriously be in trouble right now if I did not have Alex, my family, and a few really awesome friends supporting me and keeping my head above water. I've also made a few terrific friends at school. My "team" is absolutely amazing, as are a couple of other girls (teachers, that is ... not students) who relate to the stress and provide that "I'm right there with you" comfort.
I'm really enjoying teaching, though there are many (many, many, many) challenges that come with the job I have accepted. Not only is this year a huge transition in curriculum, but there is also the challenge of finding a way to fix something that has been mostly broken in the past years. I chose this profession to help kids, to give them a form of support and stability that a lot of them do not have otherwise ... and I feel that I am accomplishing that goal so far ... but, man, it is not easy.
Then again, that is yet another reason that I have always known teaching was what I should do: it's not easy! I don't want a career that I could do in my sleep, I don't want a career that is minimal interaction and little impact. I want a career that keeps me on my toes. Teaching does that and so much more!
I did almost cry in class the other day. We were talking about "reading" in terms of how we read literature versus how we read advertisements versus how we read people, and so on. (Basically, we read everything the same ... it's all about perception.) The kids were a little confused when I asked how you read people, so I had to explain a little bit.
First, I asked the first thing they notice about a person when they meet them. Answer: appearance (of course!). I asked what you can learn from someone by simply taking in their appearance. A lot of discussion and responses followed, mostly about how much money a person has (clothing brands and jewelry), if that person takes pride in themselves (are they put together and not sloppy), how old that person is (roughly), what race and sex that are (sometimes ambiguous, but mainly easily recognizable) ... things like that.
What I really wanted them to focus on were the deeper "things" they could read, not just superficial things such as appearance. To lead the discussion in that direction, I then asked what you can tell about a person once they begin speaking. I asked if you can tell if someone is genuine or fake, kind or rude, intelligent or uneducated, etc. One of my volleyball girls (who is in one of my Pre-AP classes) answered that you can definitely tell all of those things about a person very quickly. I asked her to elaborate.
She said that she could tell I was a really nice, genuine, and caring person within the first couple of minutes of meeting me. Also, that I would be a great teacher and coach. I asked how and she went on to list all of these amazing things that she thinks of me to the whole class. The whole class then joined in and starting listing all of the things they "read" about me during our first meeting ... and every, single one of them was wonderful.
It was EVERYTHING I could do to not burst into tears. I guess you never know how much you actually reach these kids until it's blatantly thrown in your face. I had no idea until that moment, and it is those moments that make the time and the stress and the emotion completely worth it.
I'm tearing up a little right now just thinking about that day. That's one of those that will stay with me for the rest of my life, I'm pretty sure.
Lordy, the past few weeks have been INSANE! I blinked and the second week of school is now over. So far, so good!
I am very happy about this long weekend, though. I need the extra day, especially since our volleyball games are on Saturdays, leaving me only one day without something school-related to do.
Sunday is also the first Tech game of the season. Whoop, whoop! I enjoy any reason to cheer ... in a completely non-cheerleader kind of way.
We also went to a wedding a couple of weeks ago. I will post a couple of pictures below.
I have FINALLY been able to get into my classroom. I am having too much fun figuring out how to decorate it. Pictures to come soon!
Leaving town tomorrow for Mike and Amanda's wedding in Austin. Can't wait for the mini-break!
Heard a new song recently, and I swear it was written about me at 17 (18, 19, 20, and probably even 21 and 22, if I'm being honest). Time has proven to be a truly amazing emotional phenomenon ...
Beautiful Disaster
She loves her momma's lemonade,
Hates the sounds that goodbyes make
She prays one day she'll find someone to need her
She swears that there's no difference
Between the lies and compliments
It's all the same if everybody leaves her
And every magazine tells her she's not good enough,
The pictures that she sees makes her cry
She would change everything, everything, just ask her
Caught in the in between of beautiful disaster
She just needs someone to take her home
She's giving boys what they want,
Tries to act so nonchalant,
Afraid they'll see that she's lost her direction
She never stays the same for long,
Assuming that she'll get it wrong
Perfect only in her imperfection
She's not a drama queen
She doesn't wanna feel this way
Only 17 and tired
She would change everything for happy ever after
Caught in the in between of beautiful disaster
She just needs someone to take her home
She's just the way she is,
But no one's told her that's okay
She would change everything for happy ever after
Caught in the in between of beautiful disaster
She just needs someone to take her home
- Jon McLauglin
(I added the actual song to the bottom of my playlist.)
My schedule has gone from 50 to 4,000,000,000 in the span of a few days. It's a really good thing that I have the amazing support of my family and Alex. Without that, I'd be in some serious trouble!
Volleyball tryouts and two-a-days started today. I'm exhausted and exhilarated all at the same time. I'm really impressed by the girls and am really excited about getting further into coaching. This year isn't going to be all about winning (though, of course, I would like to). This year is going to be about improving on skills and technique. We have some AMAZING athletes in our group! With a little more direction, I have a feeling they'll be dominating ... if not this year, definitely by the time the freshman are juniors.
I'm also pleasantly surprised that I can still PLAY volleyball. I knew that I remembered what to do, but I had no clue I could still PLAY! I can still serve and pass and set and even dive (fun!) almost exactly the same as I could when I was younger. My attacking (hitting) has lost a step or two, but it's nothing that I can't recover with a little more practice. I just need to rediscover the timing and the power. I'll get there ... the girls and I will together.
Eminem's new album, Recovery, is phenomenal. I can't stop listening to I Love The Way You Lie with Rhianna. (I added it to the bottom of my playlist.)
I'm definitely not someone who listens to rap on a regular basis (or, ever), but I've always liked Eminem.
Maybe that's what happens when a tornado meets a volcano ... great line!
All done with ESL! Took the test this morning, but I won't find out until next Tuesday or Wednesday if I passed. Cross your fingers for me!
The beginning of next week is all about finishing up my CDL. I have a permit test, then 6 written tests to take on Monday, followed by in-bus training Tuesday and Wednesday. The only (well, the main) thing I am worried about is parallel parking. I can barely (and by "barely" I mean "not really at all") parallel park my Jetta. I can't envision myself successfully paralleling that huge school bus. I do believe in miracles, though.
Totally off topic, I had forgotten how much time it takes to set up an iPod properly. Right now, I'm working on getting all of my music into my iTunes again (after the big crash of late '09). I really need to invest in an external hard drive. A new laptop (or desktop, even) is not anywhere in my near future, so I am going to have to make the best out of what I have right now. I don't want to bog down my laptop again with music ... she's an old girl, can't carry too much weight.
I plan to enjoy this weekend as much as possible. Tomorrow is Alex's birthday, so he's going to play a little golf during the day, then we have dinner at my mom and Norb's. Sunday will be the BBQ with his friends at our house. Should be lots of fun!
I'm sitting here at the kitchen table waiting for the yard man to show up ... just like I've been waiting for him to show up since last Wednesday. Only today, the yard man is different than the one who kept me waiting a week.
Our front yard is a jungle, and the backyard isn't far behind. I swear, it's absolutely terrible. I don't know much about lawnmowing, but I imagine the new guy would have best luck taking a machete to the stuff.
Our fridge is also out again. The appliance people came last week and said they fixed it, but they didn't. It's very strange because it works for about 2 hours every day, then doesn't the other 22.
Between heaters and air conditioners (okay, same unit, but you get it) and refrigerators and lawns, I'm worn out. I suppose this is the double-edged sword of renting. You don't have to pay when things break, but you do have to deal with a lot of piss-poor maintenance.
I'm still training like a madwoman. I've finished CScope, am halfway through GT, have ESL tomorrow through Friday, and will hopefully finish up my CDL next Monday and Tuesday. Then my first official day is next Wednesday!
Where does the time go?! It seems like yesterday that I received the call I was hired. I've crammed so much into these past two months, I think that could be the reason time feels like it just flew out the window.
Mini-vacation with Alex and his mom to Dallas and Austin, Summer I (still maintaining that 4.0, by the way!), Summer Planning Academy, Volleyball Camp, trip to Carlsbad for July 4th, visit from Alex's dad, and now training, training, training.
It's always funny to me when people say teachers have it "so easy." Sure, the schedule is nice with the breaks and everything, but teaching is not easy ... and once school is out, we are definitely not done. Summers are jam-packed! For new teachers like myself, anyway.
I'll tell you one thing I'm really excited about ... setting up my classroom. I really can't wait. I know that sounds like the dorkiest, most nerd-brained thing for me to say, but it's true. I'll have to take pictures.
Anyone who knows anything about me realizes that I won't be one of those teachers who does nothing fun with the room. I think the classroom sets the tone for the class. It needs to be safe place, and I intend on making it very comfortable and inviting.
I'm a very lucky girl in that I have amazing resources for free posters (Norbert) and anything else creative I might need (mom). I've already decided on what to put on the walls (not typical teacher stuff, for the most part), I just need to know the sizes. For that, I'll have to see the room first.
Usually, I think most teachers already know their room assignments by now, but we aren't able to get into the school at all this summer (well, until August 1st, I believe). They're doing a lot of updates like lighting and bathrooms and such. I'm definitely not complaining.
And, seriously ... where the heck is this lawn guy?! I hate it when people are late for business appointments. (And, yes, I do believe it's an appointment ... it's his way of earning money.) Maybe I'm just paranoid that he's going to stand us up, too. Ugh, we just need to bite the bullet and buy our own gear.
Oops!! And there he is! JOY!!!
Get this!
Using a few songs by Death Cab For Cutie, Dave Matthews, AND Counting Crows as teaching examples of figurative language has been APPROVED!!!
How freakin' cool is that?!
Best part of all: Anna Begins is one of the approved Counting Crows songs I will study with my classes.
Giddiness.
Seriously ... I've never seen (and been regularly bitten by) so many mosquitoes in my life!
I'm drowning in training!
This week alone I have training for CScope (a lesson organization computer thingy - very techincal), Gifted and Talented (to teach AP classes), and CDL classroom (for driving the Yellow Dog to away games).
Not that I'm complaining ... at least I have a job!
It's all just a little overwhelming when all of the training runs on top of one another. I'll be ready for school to start, if for nothing else, to know I have completed all of this extra stuff.
(Uh, and yeah ... I did say that I will be DRIVING the school bus. Whaaaaaaa ...?!)
I'm currently training to work with GT students (gifted and talented), and during my training, I have come across (or, rather ... rediscovered) some interesting things.
The Myers-Briggs Personality Test is one of the most interesting (and revealing) tests I have ever taken. I actually took it about 6 years ago in one of my college classes, and retook it again this morning. I am still the same personality type: INFJ.
The Counselor: (Introverted, INtuitive, Feeling, Judging)
Apparently, my personality type is only prevalent in a little over 1% of the population. No wonder people think I'm so strange! Ha.
Descriptions on my type found here: Keirsey's Description and Typelogic's Description.
TAKE YOUR OWN TEST ... CLICK HERE!
It's free and incredibly interesting.
I am SO TIRED!
We went to Carlsbad for the 4th with Alex's family (dad's side) and stayed up late every night chatting without sleeping in the next morning(s).
Then we had to leave last night while everyone was loading up on the ferry for fireworks to get back to Lubbock so that I could be at volleyball camp bright and early this morning.
Coaching is definitely different from playing; however, when you are teaching skills to kids, demonstration (and a whole lot of it) is a must.
I hate to admit it, but I'm really feeling my age this evening.
(Granted, I'm nowhere near "old," but still ...)
This morning I have been doing a bit of gardening and general tidying while listening to Journey's Greatest Hits. (Product of the 80's ... what are you gonna do?)
It is amazing to me that no matter how many times I have heard the song, Faithfully, I STILL get huge goosebumps every, single time I hear the line:
"I get the joy of rediscovering you ..."
Newspaper Article
Click on the link above to find out what I've been doing all week. I've learned so much, made some new friends, and I have never been more excited about the opportunity to help transform the lives of kids.
Education's purpose is to replace an empty mind with an open one.
-Malcolm Forbes
You've got to do your own growing, no matter how tall your grandfather was.
- Irish Proverb
My new favorite thing is "Genius" on iTunes. If you do not know what this is, check it out immediately!
So sorry for the absence!
I've been insanely busy doing a lot of ... really random stuff. I'll update as soon as I check off a more demanding list of To Do's. Right now, I'm trying to catch up on laundry and "house things."
This afternoon or evening should bear a much heftier update.
I don't have much time, as we are about to meet Nikki and Joe for dinner and drinks, but I have been given the "go-ahead" to announce the news.
I have OFFICIALLY been offered a teaching contract with LISD: High School English/JV Volleyball Coach 2010-2011!!!
(For those of you who do not know the goings-on of the public school system right now, this is a HUGE deal! I'm one of very few (if any brand new teachers here in LBK) to be offered a position.)
I was offered and accepted the position late Wednesday afternoon, but wanted to wait to tell the world and everybody on the Internet until I had personally spoken with vital members of the fam.
Like I said, I'm in a rush right now, so there is no time for details. I just couldn't keep the news in any longer! I will give a much more detailed description of events later this weekend.
:)
Everyone wish me luck! I have one more exam this morning, then my semester is officially over and done. Whew!
This exam is one that I haven't studied for very much because it all seems like common sense. Plus, I find that if I over-study for something I probably already just know, I end up over-thinking every question and doing worse than I would have if I had just gone in there and answered the way that seems natural. So, that's what I'm doing. Let's hope it works out! :)
So, yesterday was a very ... I don't even have the right words for it ... interesting, I guess ... day for me. Numerous reasons, most of which I will post about later. (Still have to call the appropriate folks to tell them myself before they read about it online. And, no, I am NOT pregnant. I know that will be one of the first assumptions.)
Ugh, look at the silly time! I guess it's time for me to get myself in gear to go take this test. I must make myself some breakfast first, however. I don't test well on an empty stomach.
Happy Thursday!
(This song kept popping up in my dreams last night, so I'll share ... Somewhere between the end and the point where we began, there's a fire burning brightly that has found it's way to dim. When the feeling's gone, shine on, shine on. - Needtobreathe. I need to stop reading fiction before bed. It makes me dream in lots of color.)
For those of you who actually read this thing, I'm sorry for the recent "radio silence." Someone apparently hacked into my Google account, so The Google Gods shut down everything ... email, blogger, even my calendar.
Technology. What are you going to do?
Anyway, everything's back to being fine and dandy now. I'll be updating more frequently, as I feel that big things are coming.
What started out as a completely crummy week last Monday turned into an incredibly FANTASTIC week by Friday. More details to come ...
Right now, it's time to get ready to head to Aunt Kay's for some homemade roast with all the trimmings. YUM!
You know what I love?
Having someone require a meeting for approval for this one huge thing you are striving to accomplish in life for which you have to spend a lot of time preparing and specially set aside time out of your completely crazy week to attend ... only to wait for an hour and a half outside of their locked office and have them never show.
That's just the best!
My CD burner has stopped working on my computer ... and I think I might have a nervous breakdown.
No, not really. I'm not THAT insane. It's just really annoying.
Everything else on my computer works fine and dandy. Anybody have any insights on how to fix the issue?
I'm a lost ball in the tall weeds.
I just made the best sandwich EVER!
Seriously ... truly epic.
Just thought I should commemorate this moment somehow.
I guess life does have some sort of crazy, innate balance.
One of the best weekends I have had in a while followed by the absolute worst Monday ... scratch that ... DAY in general that I have had in a very, very long time.
Huh - I never knew until today that it was Benjamin Franklin who was quoted as first saying, "Honesty is the best policy."
I'll be sure to use that one on my kids. (Note: When I say "my kids," I really mean "my students" ... I, myself, have no biological rugrats ... well ... not yet, anyhow.)
While I do believe Mr. Franklin had a great idea ... nay ... philosophy in his statement, I tend to prefer Winnie-the-Pooh and Tori Amos.
"A little consideration, a little thought for others, makes all the difference." - W. Pooh
"The sexiest thing is trust." - Tori Amos
Allergies - 1, Me - 0
And I would really appreciate it if they would just disappear as quickly as they came.
It's the end of the 5th 6-weeks this Friday, making this week the craziest of the past two months by way of teaching ... and my dad and Karen are coming into town this weekend.
Plus, HELLO, Elton John is on Friday! I simply MUST be at my best by then.
Every once in a while it hits me like a ton of bricks ... I have an AMAZING life!!
Really and truly.
Sometimes it's difficult to remember every minute of every day when it is something that has become so familiar.
Thank you, Powers That Be. :)
Our Internet went out sometime between Saturday night and Sunday morning. I called AT&T all up in arms, freaking out, thinking it was totally their fault for whatever reason, telling them we needed the Internet to be fixed "RIGHT NOW!" ... because Alex had homework and I had some applications and lesson planning to finish up before this morning.
So, the Techno-Wiz-Guy comes to the house this morning, and discovers that it is our precious little Kimber that thwarted our service. She somehow pulled apart some tiny, itty-bitty little wires from the box outside the house. Tricky one, that little pup.
But, I mean ... what are you going to do with that sweet little face?
I watch Dog Whisperer a lot ... and sometimes it even makes me cry. I think Cesar Millan is a completely amazing person. Cracks me up!
The heater is still an antique ... but it is working again (for the time being, anyway). I shivered until around noon, then the heater-fixer-upper-guy showed up and saved the day. Oh, how I was happy to see him!
While I was waiting, I finished dusting the house and re-arranging some drawers. Since I tend to watch trash TV while I am cleaning, I caught up on all of the latest celebrity gossip. That Jesse James ... what an "alleged" jerkwad!
I also found some true gems in the bottom of my closet that had fallen off of their hangers. Let me tell you, I literally jumped up and down when I found one shirt I thought had been eaten by the floor boards. It's nothing special, but it's one of those that is so soft and perfectly worn. Love those kind of shirts.
Alex surprised me last night by coming home a day early, which made today a great opportunity for quality time: George's for breakfast, followed by the mall and a pink Converse purchase (ROCK!), then She's Out Of My League ... which was pretty cute and funny. Since we have been home, we've been watching Monsters vs. Aliens, relaxing on the couch. Days like this are my favorite!
I'm sad to see it end, as now I am faced with the daunting task of getting ready for teaching tomorrow morning. 6am, you are not very nice! Speaking of, have I mentioned how much I loathe the time change? Because I do. I just think it's all quite silly. I realize it's for the farmer's or whatever ... but when you don't farm, it just seems annoying and disruptive. Mean, even.
It's especially difficult to get super jazzed about going back to work when you've had such a great day of hanging out and having fun. But, alas, that is life. I think I better get up and pick out an outfit, wash my face, brush my teeth, curl up with my current book, and cross my fingers that I can fall asleep before midnight.
Hope everyone is having a lovely beginning of Spring!
I thought one of the perks of renting was to have things that are either in tip-top shape, or to not have to deal with broken things around the house. But, then, I guess I would be wrong.
For the SECOND time this winter ... WHILE IT IS SNOWING ... the ghetto heater in our rental house has decided to crap out. The pilot went out last night and won't relight. I've tried about 10 different ways to get it back on, and the darn thing just won't do it.
Called my landlady and apparently the heater guy is coming by "sometime today." Well, I needed him to be here at midnight last night when I woke up with my teeth chattering!
I'm freeeeeeeezing!!!!!
And, of course, this junk always happens when Alex is out of town. I'm not sure he would be able to do anything other than what I am doing at this point ... but, still, it's like the heater has psychic ability ... "When would be the absolute worst time for me to break down?"
I guess I'll finish up my cleaning today. It might help a little to get the blood flowing. In the meantime, I'll just be chilling here at the house ... in full-on snow gear ... right down to the earmuffs.
I love grilled chicken salads.
I hate pot holes.
Lady Gaga frightens me.
Doing laundry calms me.
I am determined to plant a garden this year.
I would rather do anything than take out the trash.
I wish I could take the learning part out of sewing, and just know.
I could eat homemade oatmeal chocolate chip cookies all day long.
(All of that in about 10 seconds on the drive home this evening. The mind is such a crazy little machine.)
Met up with Nikki and Joe today. I just love having awesome friends. And, seriously, if there ever were a couple who were "MFEO" (yeah, I'm a loser), it's those two.
I can't really say that I got them together ... because that would be a fabrication ... they did all the work. But I definitely had a hand in their meeting. It's nice to know that I had even a minor part in bringing together two people who are certain to be together forever. It's such a nice idea. Even nicer when it becomes a reality.
Sometimes I try to hide it and be "tough" and not sappy and sentimental, but it's all a lie. I'm a total romantic at my core. It's like that quote from Ally ... well, those TWO quotes from Ally.
"The idea that when people come together, they stay together. I have to take that with me when I go to bed at night ..."
AND (my absolute favorite, for so many reasons)
"The world is no longer a romantic place. Some of its people still are, however - and therein lies the promise. Don't let the world win."
I realize I am a total freak about that show, but it's just my absolute favorite of all-time. I relate to Ally on an almost sad level. The longer you live and the more experience, the more you toughen up ... but it's almost sad that you become what I guess could be called stronger.
The day you realize that love is usually more conditional than unconditional could be seen a day that transforms you from a child to a grown-up ... but it's not really the most celebrated step toward maturity, if you ask me. I still sometimes wish that I could have stayed ignorant in that kind of bliss.
But, really, I don't know. That kind of bliss for me would have meant staying with someone who didn't love me at all ... unconditional or not. And, in that case, I never would have known what it means to be loved at all. Real conditional trumps fake unconditional any day.
Plus, hasn't it always been said that there is no love like the one you have with yourself? I don't think it's meant to seem as narcissistic as it sounds. I think it's supposed to be motivational or encouraging or something. Either way, it could be totally true. I find comfort in it, either way.
But, yeah, back to my whole point. It's just nice to be around two people who you know are going to "make it." It happens so rarely these days. Sad, but true. It's just nice to see some proof from time to time ... gives us all something to aspire to.
(It is important to note that today was a rare day in March ... full of freezing rain and snow that flooded everything and made my backyard look much like a swamp.)
As for that one in the photo ... there simply are no words ...
... and another big, fat Congratulations to my cousin, Mark, and his lady, Chrissy, for getting engaged this evening!
Yowza!
It seems like the theme lately should be, "Wedding bells ring ... are you listenin'? ..."
Well, I just learned that my dad got married today in Austin. Congratulations, Dad!! Welcome to the family, Karen!!
I will be celebrating this evening with breakfast (pancakes and bacon) for dinner.
Mmmmmmmmmmmmm ... frozen yogurt and mandarin oranges ...
Warmer weather means it is perfectly acceptable to eat frozen treats. Yes!
So ...
We all know how much I love wintery weather, right? Right. I mean, it's just so fantastic! That is, until I am scraping ice/snow/freezing fog off of my car every, single morning while wearing nice clothes and high heels.
Then ... it gets a little old.
It occurred to me today as I was standing in line for our Elton tickets that I have seen more shows since I moved back to Lubbock than saw when I lived in Austin. Well ... yeah, that's a lie, but still ... I have a really exciting few months lined out in this little city!
Wizard of Oz in January, Riverdance a week or so ago, Tuna Does Vegas a week from today, Elton John at the beginning of April, then Blue October at the end of April.
I love it!!!
Elton John on April 9th! Elton John on April 9th! Elton John on April 9th! Elton John on April 9th! Elton John on April 9th! Elton John on April 9th! Elton John on April 9th! Elton John on April 9th! Elton John on April 9th! Elton John on April 9th! Elton John on April 9th! Elton John on April 9th! Elton John on April 9th! Elton John on April 9th! Elton John on April 9th! Elton John on April 9th! Elton John on April 9th! Elton John on April 9th! Elton John on April 9th! Elton John on April 9th! Elton John on April 9th! Elton John on April 9th! Elton John on April 9th! Elton John on April 9th! Elton John on April 9th!
Sorry, I'm just a wee bit excited ...
Riverdance was AWESOME!
Not at all what I expected ... far exceeded my expectations.
(Alex, cover your eyes.)
Another bonus? The lead guy = smokin' hot!!
Good stuff, good times.
The pomegranate has always intrigued me. I've never tried one, mainly because I have no clue how to eat it. 
There is almost nothing as hysterical as the reaction of a puppy/dog when you pull out the harness and leash.
I just caught myself staring at the numerous bunches of flowers I have in vases around my living room. While I was staring at those vases, for some odd reason, I began thinking about how much I have changed in the last 10 years.
When I was 18, I was so far removed from who I would eventually become that I didn't even know what kind of flowers I preferred. Back then, Gerber daisies were really popular, so they were selected as my favorite - just like that.
What's funny is that I don't even like them now. I couldn't have told you back then why I liked them, other than saying they were bright, or bold. Of course, that is a valid reason for liking a flower, I suppose, but is it really a good reason for liking it above all the rest?
I don't know if it is or not ... all I know is that these days I prefer a regular daisy, or even a bright carnation over just about any other flowers out there. Lilies are beautiful, and I do like them quite a bit - but they seem to shrivel really quickly and their petals droop from almost the first day they open.
The same with Gerber daisies. The flowers are too heavy for the stems, which makes them hang and die a lot more quickly than I would like. Then there is the problem of the falling petals that go everywhere and make a huge mess.
You don't really see that problem with regular daisies, or with carnations. Both last a long time, both come in a beautiful array of colors, and both are beautiful in their simplicity.
For the life of me, I can't figure out why most girls dislike carnations so much. Is it because they are inexpensive? I, personally, like that about them. I almost always have them in my house, along with some flower who's name I do not know - Jamaican something-or-another, I think - and plain, white daisies.
I know this all seems very bizarre, me talking about flowers and how they represent a very definitive and significant way that I have changed in the last 10 years. Really, it's more about development of a solid sense of self. I didn't have many reasons for who and what I liked when I was 18. I do now.
I guess that makes me a more complete person than I was back then. I might not be as wide-eyed and idyllic as I once was, but I think I am probably much more of a real person now. I sometimes miss that innocence that comes with blind faith -- then I remember all of the reasons that now make me believe.
I am not blind in life, in love, in faith -- and I don't think I would ever change any of it -- even if I could.
I'm having a rare moment of "downtime" ... listening to some music on my computer and doing some price comparisons on laptops. Not that I have the money for a new laptop right now, but hey, a girl can dream!
So, how long has it been since I blogged? A few days? A week? I seriously can't remember, and I'm feeling too lazy to open another tab and check it out. The point is, I don't think I've full-on rambled in a while. Since I am such a fantastic rambler, I think I'll bring it right now.
We've been catching up on the past seasons of Lost in order to be able to watch this last season with the rest of the world. I watched the first three seasons in a very dedicated, serious fan kind of way. I can't remember if I got frustrated with the lack of answers, or if I just got too busy with my undergrad classes while working two jobs and cried, "UNCLE!" Could be a combination of the two for all I know.
The assessment is that the show is about a thousand times better when you can watch it back to back to back. The flashbacks and whatnot leaving you questioning the present on the show are a little bit less infuriating when you know you don't have to wait a week or more for more information. But, alas, now we are all caught up after our Season 5 binge this past weekend and are left anxiously awaiting next week. What do you think is going to happen?! It's driving me banana sandwiches.
Oh, and I had a "total girl" night last night at home, watched "Love Happens" with Jennifer Aniston and Aaron Eckhart. What I mean is, they were the actors in the movie -- the three of us weren't all sharing popcorn on the couch or anything. But, yeah, it was actually better than I thought it would be. And I'm not saying that this is anything too, totally outrageous, but it did make me cry. I'm such a wuss.
Even if the movie isn't your cup o' tea, the soundtrack is definitely 100% awesome, by the way! Rogue Wave and Priscilla Ahn and such ... good stuff! I downloaded it right after I watched it. I guess maybe the "lesson" was that love happens when you least expect it ... or something. Forgive the past, perhaps? You know, good stuff like that. Whatev' ... I say after just after admitting that I cried in the end. Ha! Nice one.
What else? Hmmm ... we went to a sort of pot luck Super Bowl party last Sunday. The party was fun, though we didn't really watch much of the game. The bad part was later that night when I got sick from something someone brought. I can't say who or what or any of that, as there was far too much food there to narrow it down to the absolute culprit. I suppose I should re-adopt my rule of only eating food from folks who I know and trust. I didn't know everyone at the party. Oh well. It's over now, which is very good news!
OH! I still haven't busted out the manual on my Blackberry to figure out the whole downloading video thing, but as soon as I do, I have a couple to share. That Kimber is a little peanut! She's got personality spilling out of her ears. She's also about 50 pounds now, and my jokes in the very beginning of her growing up to be a beast just might come completely true. The vet can't really predict how big she will be by the end of her first year, but he's shooting higher and higher than his original estimation. I just hope we don't need to saddle her!
Alright, I think my ramble is nearing an end, as I need to go pick Alex up from campus in a minute or two. I will end with a confession ... I am really, really liking the Boys Like Girls and Taylor Swift duet, "Two Is Better Than One." (As in, it has been on repeat the whole time I have been typing.) Since I don't listen to the radio, well, ever ... it's hard for me to know how huge of a faux pas this is. I guess it's a good thing that I just don't really care. :)
(I added it to my player at the bottom of this blog, in case you want to listen to it with me.)
Official end of rant.
I read this quote somewhere recently and really liked it, so I thought I would share.
All the art of living lies in a fine mingling of letting go and holding on. - Henry Ellis
Make haste, friends ...
Kimber is fantastic! She's hopping around like nothing ever happened, crazy child that she is. Such a trooper.
Teaching is still going well. Things have been a little wonky with the weather (cancellations and whatnot), but we're rolling with it. No point stressing about it.
I can't believe it is snowing again! I love it.. Wonder if school will be delayed in the morning ...
I've been bombarded with cookies this week - homemade, Girl Scout, "so on and so force" (as Norbert says). Delish, but there has to be an end to the madness.
And my time is up! The couch, my boy, and DVR beckon. More later.
My little fuzzy baby was spayed today and is having to stay overnight at the vet's office.
Separation anxiety ... :(
Yes, I realize she is a dog. And, no, I do not care that I am completely ridiculous about her.
Well, I've already turned teacher-nerd. I see (or read) something neat on tv, or in a store, or on the Internet, and immediately think of how I can utilize it in one of my lessons.
I actually enjoy unit planning. Someone needs to slap me ...
(Today, Confucius say, "Only the wisest and stupidest of men never change." Hrmmmm.)
The quote of the day will change tomorrow, so I just wanted to re-iterate ...
"When I give, I give myself." - Walt Whitman
This is absolutely beautiful. This song has been one of my favorites for a very long time now - Jeff Buckley's always having been my #1 version. This one, however, is trying to claim that spot more and more each time I listen to it.
I encourage everyone to do a iTunes search for "Hope for Haiti Now" and buy as much as you desire. All proceeds go to the cause.
The first couple of days meeting the students have gone very well. I am excited about the entire experience ... and I'm also much more tired than I ever imagined I would be ... already! Who knew?!
My puppy is currently sleeping with her head on my foot like a pillow, snoring ever so lightly. She just likes to be close - such a sweet little baby! (Who is not so little anymore, I might add. Over 40 pounds, not even 6 months!)
Speaking of, as soon as I can figure out how to transfer videos onto my computer, I will post a video on here that I took using my new Blackberry over the Christmas break. It is of her in the snow for the first time. Too cute!
So, we went and saw Avatar again yesterday afternoon. My mom needed a movie companion, so Alex and I used her as an excuse to see it again in 3D. It was better the second time around, if that is even possible. And seeing it in 3D is A MUST! It's amazing how far they have come with that kind of thing.
Oh, and I'm almost finished with Book 1 of the Sookie Stackhouse series. I watch the show, True Blood, like it is some kind of crack, yet have discovered that the books are much better. (Isn't that usually the case?) Kudos to Alex on that box-set Christmas gift!
Still watching Ally, still cracking up the entire time. I had forgotten about little treasures like The Knee Pit, "Snapish", and "Uh ... Pough ... Pough ... Poughk ... Poughkee ... Muggers." (Maybe you have to be a little crazy to thoroughly enjoy and "get" that show as much as I do. I'm okay with that.)
Today was all running errands to prepare for tomorrow, when I start my first official day at the high school. I'm a little nervous, but more of that particular excited -- you know, the "Let's do this!" kind of excitement. Stick me up there and let me sail or sink all on my own. I feel I'm ready.
I love nights in. The fam has forgone our Saturday Night tonight due to prior engagements, so Alex and I are staying in and making pork chop casserole, mashed potatoes, and green beans.
My oh my, it's going to be deeee-lish!
We are also watching New Orleans & Arizona. Of course, NO is going to beat the pants off of the Cards. No contest, friends!
Speaking of New Orleans, my dad is actually moving there ... and getting married! I couldn't be happier for him as far as the marrying is concerned. I sincerely adore Karen - she is very kind, very genuine little soul. As for the moving, I am going to miss him more just knowing that he is not in Texas, but again, if it is best for him, I say - do it!
Plus, there is always the whole visitation thing. I've never had crawfish, and I hear there are some mean broilin' parties over in Louisiana! I'll be visiting very shortly after he has settled.
And on the subject of getting settled, I finally OFFICIALLY start at Monterey next Tuesday!! I'm super excited about getting to teach ... I think it will be very challenging, but also very fun. I already have so many ideas.
So, yeah, I'll keep the updates uh-comin' with all of that ...
Kimber DOES NOT LIKE Alex's Scarface poster! She growled and barked, and barked and growled.
And she doesn't even bark, mostly ... she's more of a mix between a Howler Monkey and a Wookiee than actual dog.
Just got back from seeing Avatar in 3D. It was FABULOUS!!!!!!
If you have not seen it, go now ... I insist.
The Norbs made one of my all-time favorite meals last night during our ritual Saturday Night Dinner ... pork tenderloin with red wine mushroom sauce, spinach with a little onion and bacon, baked potatoes, and salad with a hint of raspberry dressing.
Holy moly, it was gooooooood!
(Between Norbert's gourmet meals, Kay's home cooking, and Alex's homemade "special-secret" Italian sauce, I am so food-spoiled ...)
Sherlock Holmes was good ... then again, I don't think I have ever seen anything with Robert Downey, Jr. that I didn't like. He has this very assured air about him ... I enjoy it quite a lot.
Speaking of, my mom gave me the entire Ally McBeal series on DVD for Christmas, and I am looking forward to the season(s) in which he played Larry. Of all the men on that show, he was the one Ally should have ended up with. And, come to think of it, I think David E. Kelly once said that was the initial plan ... then he got arrested, or went back into rehab or something. Alas, no Larry and Ally. In which case, it should have been The Biscuit.
Now I'm just rambling ...
I was feeling very crafty one day and decided I should make our stockings this year by hand. Mine is just like Alex's, only with an "SK" where his "AJ" are. 
My niece, Corinne, is the cutest little girl I have ever seen. Seriously!
It was her first year to actually "open" presents, as last Christmas she was only one month old.
We had a White Christmas!
It was Kimber's first time to be in snow ... she obviously loved it.
And so did I ... because ... 
It was the perfect opportunity to wear my pink fuzzy boots!!!
And to build friendly little snowmen.
Courtni stopped by with her new baby, Lilli ... who is sooo precious! Look at those blue eyes. 
In general, it was just a really nice and relaxing holiday.
I know I left you all with a cliffhanger yesterday that probably kept you up all night.
And the answer is (drum roll, please) - Golden Twilight! Yesss ....
Happy New Year! Hope you didn't forget to eat your black-eyed peas! :)
(And, tomorrow, I am putting up a fence. Lord, help me!)
