The weekend passes way too fast to accomplish much. Conference weekend also takes up more of the weekend and I accomplish much less. On the other hand, I do get to hear some great talks from church leaders and receive much inspiration and am uplifted. Pretty good trade off.
The kids had a soccer practice and game this week. At their practice, the city had two players from the local professional soccer team come out and teach the kids a few techniques. Half of the kids were in awe and the other half would have rather been practicing. Mister was one of the latter and Tiny, the former. She was excited to get their autographs and a poster. Their games also went well. Mister's team got a new player than does well handling the ball. So, they got some more points this time around. Tiny's team also got two new players. They are two little boys from Africa, one of which we know from church. Their whole family plays soccer and he really loves it. H asked the boy we knew what team he was on and he said that he didn't have the money to register for soccer. We know of his family's economic situation and asked them if they wouldn't mind us paying his fee so he could play. They agreed and the boy and his friend joined the team. We were also able to help him get shin guards and cleats.
Well, the boys had fun playing their first game and are pretty talented. After the game, the opposing coach approached H and told him that the boys were supposed to have been on his team. H asked why they hadn't been put on his team and the coach said that he told the boys they would have to pay the fee if they wanted to play. H told him that they wouldn't have been able to pay it, so he did so the boys could play. The guy then actually had the gall to tell H that he was teaching the boys that they could get a free ride and wouldn't have to be responsible to pay for things. What a pretentious, elitist butthead! It infuriated me that the guy didn't look past himself and realize that the love these boys have for the game outweighs the ability to for out money for it. The ref told H that he was right and the other guy was in the wrong. It's just sad. I am glad they can play anyway.
School is going okay. I'm still a little behind in some reading and I have my first test on Monday in Grammar. I finished reading Fight Club a few days ago. It had good writing and an interesting plot twist, but it was amazingly graphic. Just so you know, I never watched the movie so I didn't know what to expect. Don't know if I mentioned before, but I also finished V for Vendetta and watched the movie. I highly recommend both.
Fun stuff: I got to go on a date with my husband last night. We went dancing and it's been a while since we last did. FYI, we went to a country/western club with a live band and it was fun. We played a lot of pool and danced to some fav songs. Just a warning: if you are one of those people that arrive at the club at 7:00pm for the line dance class and then proceed to line dance to every song for the rest of the night.....you should probably look for other weekend activities every once in a while. Some of them don't even look like they're having fun while they're doing it. Like zombies or robots. And of course, there were the expected regulars there: the middle-aged, big-haired blond with a tiny shirt and tight jeans, the mentally unstable metalheads with their adoring chics, the big-bellied cowboy in really tight wranglers, and band that keeps telling the crowd to say "hell yeah". The band was okay, but most of the songs all sounded alike. And the DJ played some odd selections, but there was a live band, a pool table, and my guy to dance me around the floor. It was great.
Saturday, September 30, 2006
My New Hair (no, not a wig)
Saturday, September 23, 2006
Femmes Mortes
Just wanted to post the link for a website I did. This was the final project for an British/French poetry class I took last semester. I did all of the content and had the help of my wonderful H to put it all into a functional website. I focused on the use of the image of dead women in art and literature. Hope you enjoy it.
Femmes Mortes
Tiny's Haircut
Before
After
My Tiny wanted a real haircut because she felt that her hair was getting too long for her taste. I figured that it made sense since she is playing soccer now and it is also taking longer to detangle in the mornings. With her daddy's permission, I set up an appointment for her with the gal that does my hair. After putting it into a ponytail, it was slowly cut. I was then handed a ponytail about 8 inches long of her beautiful, soft hair. I actually felt a pang in my gut when it was cut. It didn't hurt that her hair was going to be much shorter. It was that my little girl was sitting in a salon, deciding what haircut she wanted (not my decision, hers), and seeing the hair that I brushed, washed and caressed since she really was tiny being cut off. It was almost like her babyhood was coming off. She is growing and becoming very much her own individual person. While I am proud, I am also sad. I hope that I can always take part (even in some small way) in moments such as these. It will probably always hurt a little to see them grow and become more independent, but I love who they are becoming and know it will be okay.
Thursday, September 21, 2006
Dislike "like" and Commuting Etiquette
I sat in my children’s lit class today and we were discussing Alice in Wonderland, the first four chapters anyway. There was a girl that was sitting a little bit in front of me and she was interjecting some interesting points into the conversation. However, I can’t remember what she said because I was distracted by her repetitive use of the word “like”. By the end of her point, its use was rampant and maddening. By her second sentence, my mind was only picking up the word “like” and it must have taken up at least a third of what she was saying. I know that I use it myself from time to time, but I have found lately that it bothers me greatly. I think that if a class was instructed to pay close attention to what they say and try hard to eliminate this word from their conversation, it would be a lot harder than they would think. I did this experiment on myself once after ranting to a friend about this dislike and realized that even I use it more than I realize. Try it the next time you are in a conversation and see what happens.
This morning, I was on the train to school and it was getting pretty packed in there. I had the thought of writing etiquette guidelines for commuting on the train or campus shuttle buses and having it printed in the U paper. While in London, I got to see firsthand the proper way to commute on a train or bus with 50 million other people during rush hour. We could catch the tube on the way to school during the morning commute and even if the train was stuffed to the gills, people would still try to sandwich in more so you had a chance of getting in and not getting stuck in the doors. Great blokes, they are! You could have your face in someone’s armpit, but still be satisfied that everyone is aboard and on their way. I saw teenagers sit in each others laps, backpacks and suitcase placed between legs to make more body room, and people scrunching together in proximities that one would never dare in any other setting. But everyone made room and all commuted happily.
Here in our great city, it’s another story. I have surmised that the lack of proper commuting etiquette is due to the near infancy of our transit system. NYC and London have had their subway systems for decades and seem to have mastered, on most days, the art of communal commuting. We simply lack the experience. When a new group of people enter a crowded train, everyone in the car should do their best to use every inch to the best advantage of everyone else in the train. Large backpacks should be placed low, preferable on the floor between your legs when standing in the aisles. Laps should be utilized when sitting for shopping bags, purses, and backpacks. The idea is to try to make yourself as small as possible and stick yourself in a corner so others may be able to fit in too. When you enter the train car or a bus and you know that there are people behind you, you need to take an available seat quickly. DO NOT stand in the aisle trying to debate where you should sit, just sit. If seating is unavailable, you should walk down the aisle as far as it can take you, find a place to stand and make room for others. DO NOT walk for a few feet and then stop and claim that space as yours and refuse to go further. There are an unknown number of people behind you that still need to enter the train and find a spot for themselves. Also, subsequent stops will only add to the group, so move it along and share the space.
And how about a discussion on manners? If you see any of the following enter the train: disabled individuals, anyone 30 years or more your senior, a pregnant woman, a parent with young children, or a family that would like to sit together, GIVE UP YOUR SEAT if you are young, healthy, and perfectly able to stand. It’s only common courtesy…you know, that stuff your mom tried to teach you for years. Think if she were watching, she’d be so proud. I could extend this to men giving up their seat to a woman, but that may be asking too much of some people today.
So, what do you think? Think I should submit this to the paper?
This morning, I was on the train to school and it was getting pretty packed in there. I had the thought of writing etiquette guidelines for commuting on the train or campus shuttle buses and having it printed in the U paper. While in London, I got to see firsthand the proper way to commute on a train or bus with 50 million other people during rush hour. We could catch the tube on the way to school during the morning commute and even if the train was stuffed to the gills, people would still try to sandwich in more so you had a chance of getting in and not getting stuck in the doors. Great blokes, they are! You could have your face in someone’s armpit, but still be satisfied that everyone is aboard and on their way. I saw teenagers sit in each others laps, backpacks and suitcase placed between legs to make more body room, and people scrunching together in proximities that one would never dare in any other setting. But everyone made room and all commuted happily.
Here in our great city, it’s another story. I have surmised that the lack of proper commuting etiquette is due to the near infancy of our transit system. NYC and London have had their subway systems for decades and seem to have mastered, on most days, the art of communal commuting. We simply lack the experience. When a new group of people enter a crowded train, everyone in the car should do their best to use every inch to the best advantage of everyone else in the train. Large backpacks should be placed low, preferable on the floor between your legs when standing in the aisles. Laps should be utilized when sitting for shopping bags, purses, and backpacks. The idea is to try to make yourself as small as possible and stick yourself in a corner so others may be able to fit in too. When you enter the train car or a bus and you know that there are people behind you, you need to take an available seat quickly. DO NOT stand in the aisle trying to debate where you should sit, just sit. If seating is unavailable, you should walk down the aisle as far as it can take you, find a place to stand and make room for others. DO NOT walk for a few feet and then stop and claim that space as yours and refuse to go further. There are an unknown number of people behind you that still need to enter the train and find a spot for themselves. Also, subsequent stops will only add to the group, so move it along and share the space.
And how about a discussion on manners? If you see any of the following enter the train: disabled individuals, anyone 30 years or more your senior, a pregnant woman, a parent with young children, or a family that would like to sit together, GIVE UP YOUR SEAT if you are young, healthy, and perfectly able to stand. It’s only common courtesy…you know, that stuff your mom tried to teach you for years. Think if she were watching, she’d be so proud. I could extend this to men giving up their seat to a woman, but that may be asking too much of some people today.
So, what do you think? Think I should submit this to the paper?
Wednesday, September 20, 2006
Happy Happy Joy Joy, Happy Happy Joy
Why am I so happy, you ask?! I got a new sewing machine...one from this decade! I bought it off of craigslist today and have only used it for about an hour, but I am very satisfied. The new machine is only a few years old and was hardly used. It's only about 13 lbs, which I love considering the old one weighed about 30 lbs and could throw out your whole body if swung slightly while being carried. A few clues to its age are that it was my mom's first real machine and it's pink and turquoise. I'm sad to see something with that much history come to its end, but I sure do love the convenience of the new one. I did some work on a quilt I had started when my old machine died its excruciating death. It felt so good to sew. I forgot how much I enjoy it. I will now be working on the many baby quilts I had planned. The first baby is due in a couple of weeks, so I better get cracking. Also, Halloween costumes are just around the corner.
The weather has been exceptionally wet and abruptly cold lately. This is proof that there really is no fall around here, just hot to storm to cold. There is even snow in the mountains. I can tell that the family is itching to hit the slopes. The snowboard equipment is sitting eagerly in the corner awaiting use.
School: Going good. Still a little behind on the incredibly dry theory reading, but no worries. Also need to read more chapters for grammar class. I just finished V for Vendetta (the graphic novel) and also watched the movie. I highly recommend both. Today I started Fight Club and though the material is more raw than I prefer, it has still sucked me in and I look forward to reading it. Tonight, I will also start Alice in Wonderland. I have to admit that I have never actually read the full story. I have read an abridged version and saw that cartoon ages ago. I also look forward to this read. In theory, I am reading some chapters out of a book titled Simulacra and Simulation. Although it can be dry and thick at times, there are some interesting points and theories along the way...enough to keep me reading. I finished House on Mango Street last week in one day. It is a short read, but packs a lot of events and emotion in each small chapter. I think that I will have read more this semester than any other...and I'm enjoying every minute of it.
Kids: First games tomorrow. They got their new shirts yesterday and will get their socks at the games. They are in two different age groups but, incidentally, got the same color uniform; gold. Thankfully the sizes are different or they would have been arguing over which is theirs each game day. They seem to get better with each practice and I look forward to seeing them running up and down the field in their uniforms. I'm a sucker for a uniform.
The weather has been exceptionally wet and abruptly cold lately. This is proof that there really is no fall around here, just hot to storm to cold. There is even snow in the mountains. I can tell that the family is itching to hit the slopes. The snowboard equipment is sitting eagerly in the corner awaiting use.
School: Going good. Still a little behind on the incredibly dry theory reading, but no worries. Also need to read more chapters for grammar class. I just finished V for Vendetta (the graphic novel) and also watched the movie. I highly recommend both. Today I started Fight Club and though the material is more raw than I prefer, it has still sucked me in and I look forward to reading it. Tonight, I will also start Alice in Wonderland. I have to admit that I have never actually read the full story. I have read an abridged version and saw that cartoon ages ago. I also look forward to this read. In theory, I am reading some chapters out of a book titled Simulacra and Simulation. Although it can be dry and thick at times, there are some interesting points and theories along the way...enough to keep me reading. I finished House on Mango Street last week in one day. It is a short read, but packs a lot of events and emotion in each small chapter. I think that I will have read more this semester than any other...and I'm enjoying every minute of it.
Kids: First games tomorrow. They got their new shirts yesterday and will get their socks at the games. They are in two different age groups but, incidentally, got the same color uniform; gold. Thankfully the sizes are different or they would have been arguing over which is theirs each game day. They seem to get better with each practice and I look forward to seeing them running up and down the field in their uniforms. I'm a sucker for a uniform.
Sunday, September 17, 2006
A taste of winter and car chases
Boy, it got cold the last few days. It is our first taste of the coming winter and I can tell that it's going to be a cold one. Then again, I'm a desert girl and shiver at the first sign of cold. I was wearing two shirts and one sweater yesterday and I think the temp was only in the 50s. Just wait until it's January and 20 degrees. FUN! I'm ready to fire up the fireplace and the furnace right now.
Us LonDolls had a girls' night on Friday, to which only three of the five were able to attend. We still had fun though. We went to a game store where you can play whatever game they already have open. They have a lot of tables set up for people to come in, get comfortable, and play for a while. We played a game called "Mystery at the Abbey". It's a lot like Clue but involves monks, a murder, and a monastery. After we got the rules down, it was a lot of fun. We played three games in which Mody and I found out just how competitive Trippy really is. We then went out to eat some french toast for me and Mody and a chicken sandwich for Trippy. It was a good night out. Hey Mody....PANINI!
Then the night changed after I got home. After H and the kids got back from the video store, we noticed a strange man walking around near the moving company down the street. We watched him for a while and he opened the door of the company's moving truck which, he seemed surprised at, was unlocked. He noticed us watching him and proceeded to walk up and down the street saying that he was looking for a friend. Convinced that he was leaving, we went inside. I tried to look out for him through the window and didn't see him again. However, a few minutes later, we heard the truck fire up and tear off down the street. H and I knew that he had just stolen the moving truck. So, H jumped in the car to see where he was going and I called 911. I reported what had happened and then H tried to call me on the other line on my cell. That's when I learned that if you're on a 911 call, it won't let you answer the other line. So, I called him from our landline and had the 911 operator on one ear and H on the other.
He told us that the guy was driving up the interstate and was driving erratically. We found out later that he was driving that way to see if he was actually being followed, and figured out pretty quickly that he was. After leaving the interstate, he began to make many turns through residential neighborhoods and each turn was being relayed to the dispatcher. H said that he had run out of road and was in a dead end. Being 3/4 of a block behind him, he waited to see what the guy was going to do. He told us that he had stopped and turned off his lights. H could hear the cops but couldn't see them yet. Just then, the guy did a u-turn and gunned it straight for H in his car. H quickly got turned around and drove as fast as he could, even through stop signs, with the truck on his tail and the pedal to the floor. They ended up back on the interstate overpass bridge where the light was red. H knew that if he stopped, he would be slammed by the truck and if he didn't, that he would cause an accident. He decided to stop and slammed on his brakes and skidded. The truck did the same and as soon as he could, H did a u-turn. That was when the cops came along and pulled the guy over.
I was relaying all the info to the operator and wasn't thinking much about worrying until H told me that the guy was then chasing him and was trying to run him off the road. That's when my heart skipped a beat and I just wanted him out of the way of the truck and safe. My breath was stuck in my chest and I didn't really let it out until he told me that the cops had the guy and he wasn't in danger anymore. Later, a cop came and took H's statement and by then, his adrenaline had worn off and was freaking out just a bit himself. We couldn't believe what had just taken place. When it began, we didn't even really think, we just reacted. I'm thankful that he had the sense of calm at the needed moment and the skill to outrun that truck. If he didn't, his car would have been no match for that moving truck. Even now, thinking about it, my chest aches with fear. Well, it turns out that the guy had drug paraphenalia on him and was most likely high at the time. H was uncomfortable with the idea that a random guy was walking down our street, high on drugs, and looking to burglarize or steal something. We found out though that the guy actually had a connection to one of the business' employees and it wasn't random at all. After scouting the truck, he had broken into the office and stolen the keys. That's why I didn't see him out of the window, because he was in the office.
So, that was a wild event that I hope we never have to relive. But we are always willing to do what we can to help our neighbors and keep people like that out of our neighborhood. I just hope that we will always be that blessed with safety and have God's loving protection over us.
Us LonDolls had a girls' night on Friday, to which only three of the five were able to attend. We still had fun though. We went to a game store where you can play whatever game they already have open. They have a lot of tables set up for people to come in, get comfortable, and play for a while. We played a game called "Mystery at the Abbey". It's a lot like Clue but involves monks, a murder, and a monastery. After we got the rules down, it was a lot of fun. We played three games in which Mody and I found out just how competitive Trippy really is. We then went out to eat some french toast for me and Mody and a chicken sandwich for Trippy. It was a good night out. Hey Mody....PANINI!
Then the night changed after I got home. After H and the kids got back from the video store, we noticed a strange man walking around near the moving company down the street. We watched him for a while and he opened the door of the company's moving truck which, he seemed surprised at, was unlocked. He noticed us watching him and proceeded to walk up and down the street saying that he was looking for a friend. Convinced that he was leaving, we went inside. I tried to look out for him through the window and didn't see him again. However, a few minutes later, we heard the truck fire up and tear off down the street. H and I knew that he had just stolen the moving truck. So, H jumped in the car to see where he was going and I called 911. I reported what had happened and then H tried to call me on the other line on my cell. That's when I learned that if you're on a 911 call, it won't let you answer the other line. So, I called him from our landline and had the 911 operator on one ear and H on the other.
He told us that the guy was driving up the interstate and was driving erratically. We found out later that he was driving that way to see if he was actually being followed, and figured out pretty quickly that he was. After leaving the interstate, he began to make many turns through residential neighborhoods and each turn was being relayed to the dispatcher. H said that he had run out of road and was in a dead end. Being 3/4 of a block behind him, he waited to see what the guy was going to do. He told us that he had stopped and turned off his lights. H could hear the cops but couldn't see them yet. Just then, the guy did a u-turn and gunned it straight for H in his car. H quickly got turned around and drove as fast as he could, even through stop signs, with the truck on his tail and the pedal to the floor. They ended up back on the interstate overpass bridge where the light was red. H knew that if he stopped, he would be slammed by the truck and if he didn't, that he would cause an accident. He decided to stop and slammed on his brakes and skidded. The truck did the same and as soon as he could, H did a u-turn. That was when the cops came along and pulled the guy over.
I was relaying all the info to the operator and wasn't thinking much about worrying until H told me that the guy was then chasing him and was trying to run him off the road. That's when my heart skipped a beat and I just wanted him out of the way of the truck and safe. My breath was stuck in my chest and I didn't really let it out until he told me that the cops had the guy and he wasn't in danger anymore. Later, a cop came and took H's statement and by then, his adrenaline had worn off and was freaking out just a bit himself. We couldn't believe what had just taken place. When it began, we didn't even really think, we just reacted. I'm thankful that he had the sense of calm at the needed moment and the skill to outrun that truck. If he didn't, his car would have been no match for that moving truck. Even now, thinking about it, my chest aches with fear. Well, it turns out that the guy had drug paraphenalia on him and was most likely high at the time. H was uncomfortable with the idea that a random guy was walking down our street, high on drugs, and looking to burglarize or steal something. We found out though that the guy actually had a connection to one of the business' employees and it wasn't random at all. After scouting the truck, he had broken into the office and stolen the keys. That's why I didn't see him out of the window, because he was in the office.
So, that was a wild event that I hope we never have to relive. But we are always willing to do what we can to help our neighbors and keep people like that out of our neighborhood. I just hope that we will always be that blessed with safety and have God's loving protection over us.
Friday, September 15, 2006
Called on account of rain...
Considering that I will always be writing about my family in this blog, I have taken PasstheZoloft's example and decided to assign nicknames to everyone. My husband will be known as H, my son will be Mister, and my daughter will be Tiny. That should be a bit easier.
Yesterday was supposed to be Mister's first soccer game and another practice for Tiny, but we had a doozy of a storm come through a couple hours before. I'm kind of glad for this because I didn't feel one practice was sufficient enought before the first game, especially for the kids who have never played before. So, the weekend lies before us and I am ready to use up every second of it. I have a good amount of reading to catch up on, mostly in theory because the texts are as dry as unbuttered toast in a parched mouth. How's that imagery for you?! Anyways, it's hard to get through and sometimes a bit painful. On top of that, I need to do housework that I let slip during the week. This week has been a tiring one. For the first time, I don't feel overwhelmed with my school work and classes, but this semester is demanding more of me physically than ever before. My bag is heavier, I walk a lot more, and I do extra commuting on the train in order to volunteer. By the time I get home after 3 pm, I have just enough energy to sit down, help the kids with their homework (which I really enjoy), and then I'm trying to stay awake by then. To make matters worse, I don't start my homework until they kids are in bed and I stay up pretty late. Thankfully, I had a loving husband that will make the occasional dinner and help with the kids. He's pretty amazing! Each day, I look at him at least once and wonder how I got so lucky.
I am already getting a bit lazy on my workout too. I will try to pick it back up today and keep at it. I would really like to feel better and feel that I look better too. I will be trying out a new cooking technique this week. I plan to follow some advice I've received and will be planning out the week's dinners in advance. Not only that, but I will also buy everything needed for the meals and preparing the meals in advance. I will spend the better part of Saturday shopping and preparing these meals, and then storing and freezing them. They will then be ready for someone to choose what they want, unwrap it, and pop it in the oven for cooking or reheating. Ta Da...dinner! I hate when it's 6pm and I haven't even thought about what to make and I see that everyone is getting hungry...not to mention the fact that I dislike cooking to begin with. I hope this will help relieve some of that pressure and will be a better solution than eating out 5 days a week, which has happened a lot more lately than I care to admit. It'll definitely be cheaper. I'll let you know how all that works out.
Dreading: I have realized that we will need to replace our stairs sooner than later. I don't know how old they are, but the steps are getting cracks in them and I don't fancy my foot falling through one morning. I should say that I am completely DIY challenged and H is usually too busy to do that stuff. He says it wouldn't be a very hard job, but I think it will take more time than anything and I hate having to stare at unfinished projects, being the cursed perfectionist that I am. Hopefully all that turns out well. We did decide thought that his beloved Zolatone paint will have to go (it's a painting and texturing technique that gives it a faux stone look). I know he really likes it, but I have caught a glimpse of the natural wood molding and am excited to restore it. It's a dark wood.
Well, I have put off my homework long enough. Better get to it.
Yesterday was supposed to be Mister's first soccer game and another practice for Tiny, but we had a doozy of a storm come through a couple hours before. I'm kind of glad for this because I didn't feel one practice was sufficient enought before the first game, especially for the kids who have never played before. So, the weekend lies before us and I am ready to use up every second of it. I have a good amount of reading to catch up on, mostly in theory because the texts are as dry as unbuttered toast in a parched mouth. How's that imagery for you?! Anyways, it's hard to get through and sometimes a bit painful. On top of that, I need to do housework that I let slip during the week. This week has been a tiring one. For the first time, I don't feel overwhelmed with my school work and classes, but this semester is demanding more of me physically than ever before. My bag is heavier, I walk a lot more, and I do extra commuting on the train in order to volunteer. By the time I get home after 3 pm, I have just enough energy to sit down, help the kids with their homework (which I really enjoy), and then I'm trying to stay awake by then. To make matters worse, I don't start my homework until they kids are in bed and I stay up pretty late. Thankfully, I had a loving husband that will make the occasional dinner and help with the kids. He's pretty amazing! Each day, I look at him at least once and wonder how I got so lucky.
I am already getting a bit lazy on my workout too. I will try to pick it back up today and keep at it. I would really like to feel better and feel that I look better too. I will be trying out a new cooking technique this week. I plan to follow some advice I've received and will be planning out the week's dinners in advance. Not only that, but I will also buy everything needed for the meals and preparing the meals in advance. I will spend the better part of Saturday shopping and preparing these meals, and then storing and freezing them. They will then be ready for someone to choose what they want, unwrap it, and pop it in the oven for cooking or reheating. Ta Da...dinner! I hate when it's 6pm and I haven't even thought about what to make and I see that everyone is getting hungry...not to mention the fact that I dislike cooking to begin with. I hope this will help relieve some of that pressure and will be a better solution than eating out 5 days a week, which has happened a lot more lately than I care to admit. It'll definitely be cheaper. I'll let you know how all that works out.
Dreading: I have realized that we will need to replace our stairs sooner than later. I don't know how old they are, but the steps are getting cracks in them and I don't fancy my foot falling through one morning. I should say that I am completely DIY challenged and H is usually too busy to do that stuff. He says it wouldn't be a very hard job, but I think it will take more time than anything and I hate having to stare at unfinished projects, being the cursed perfectionist that I am. Hopefully all that turns out well. We did decide thought that his beloved Zolatone paint will have to go (it's a painting and texturing technique that gives it a faux stone look). I know he really likes it, but I have caught a glimpse of the natural wood molding and am excited to restore it. It's a dark wood.
Well, I have put off my homework long enough. Better get to it.
Tuesday, September 12, 2006
Official Soccer Mom, Geek, and Bodybuilder
Well, I am an official mom now. I have become a soccer mom...minus the minivan. I prefer my Benz. Both of my kiddos are in soccer and today was their first practice. Neither of them have had much exposure to the game but really enjoyed themselves. My son's first game will already be on Thursday and my daughter has two more practices before her first. Hubby is coaching our daughters team and he managed to lose a kid during the first practice. They had a five minute water break and one boy didn't return. Hubby called his home phone after a few more minutes and they said that he had come home. We figured that he thought practice was over and were just glad that he was okay. That was a heart attack for us. It's like when you tell a kid to run home in baseball and they take it literally. Hubby had gotten the kids some shin guards and cleats the other day. He showed me my daughter's cleats and they were some of the tiniest ones I had ever seen. She would have gotten pink ones if they had any.
Here is something I thought I would never see...Jerry Springer ballroom dancing on tv. I have "Dancing the Stars" on and muted. I think if I ever voted on this, my favorite would have to be Mario Lopez...just because he's hot. Who cares if he can dance...have you see his dimples?! (Yes, the ones on his face!) There are a few new shows that I wouldn't mind seeing this fall, but will probably not have the time to. There's Ugly Betty, Men in Trees, Heroes, and maybe The Class and Shark. I will probably only end up watching one episode of each all year. But I do have my faithful shows CSI (original) and House. I just have to follow the drama of Grissom and Sara and also House's surly yet hilarious attitude. There was a show that was on tv last spring and I only caught one episode of it and unfortunately it was cancelled. It was called Teachers and I found it hilarious. It was, of course, about a group of teachers in a public high school and the dynamics between each other and with their students. Being the geek I am, I would like that show.
Well, I don't know if you recall a previous posting about how I wanted to try out an exercise video that I saw on an infomercial. (I know, already said that I was a geek. It should be understood that I watch infomercials at 2 am too.) Anyways, I had looked up reviews on it from REAL people that had tried it and really liked it. Well, I unscrewed my wallet and ordered it. I am on exercise day two. I actually started on Sunday and the beginner workout is only 24 minutes long. It was a good workout in that I did not pass out, was still able to breathe, got a good sweat going, and felt pretty good afterwards. The next day was another story. I woke up understandably sore, but it was doable. However, that changed as the day went on. By the end of the day, I wasn't walking much, stairs were a daunting task, and even sitting took a few groans. I, of course, did not work out yesterday...which is allowed as I only have to work out 6 days a week. I had no excuse today though because I don't think I can use next week's break too. But I have to say that I felt much better after today's workout. I will update you on my progress and results. Let me just say that I feel almost every muscle in my body...at least, the ones I use on a regular basis. I think that if it's sore, you're doing well; if it hurts, you did something wrong. Feel the burn...rahrr!
Here is something I thought I would never see...Jerry Springer ballroom dancing on tv. I have "Dancing the Stars" on and muted. I think if I ever voted on this, my favorite would have to be Mario Lopez...just because he's hot. Who cares if he can dance...have you see his dimples?! (Yes, the ones on his face!) There are a few new shows that I wouldn't mind seeing this fall, but will probably not have the time to. There's Ugly Betty, Men in Trees, Heroes, and maybe The Class and Shark. I will probably only end up watching one episode of each all year. But I do have my faithful shows CSI (original) and House. I just have to follow the drama of Grissom and Sara and also House's surly yet hilarious attitude. There was a show that was on tv last spring and I only caught one episode of it and unfortunately it was cancelled. It was called Teachers and I found it hilarious. It was, of course, about a group of teachers in a public high school and the dynamics between each other and with their students. Being the geek I am, I would like that show.
Well, I don't know if you recall a previous posting about how I wanted to try out an exercise video that I saw on an infomercial. (I know, already said that I was a geek. It should be understood that I watch infomercials at 2 am too.) Anyways, I had looked up reviews on it from REAL people that had tried it and really liked it. Well, I unscrewed my wallet and ordered it. I am on exercise day two. I actually started on Sunday and the beginner workout is only 24 minutes long. It was a good workout in that I did not pass out, was still able to breathe, got a good sweat going, and felt pretty good afterwards. The next day was another story. I woke up understandably sore, but it was doable. However, that changed as the day went on. By the end of the day, I wasn't walking much, stairs were a daunting task, and even sitting took a few groans. I, of course, did not work out yesterday...which is allowed as I only have to work out 6 days a week. I had no excuse today though because I don't think I can use next week's break too. But I have to say that I felt much better after today's workout. I will update you on my progress and results. Let me just say that I feel almost every muscle in my body...at least, the ones I use on a regular basis. I think that if it's sore, you're doing well; if it hurts, you did something wrong. Feel the burn...rahrr!
Monday, September 11, 2006
Where were you when the world stopped turning?
I remember when I heard about what happened on 9/11...as does everyone else. We were living in NM and my husband was still in the Air Force. I had just sent my son off for his second day of school and my husband's brother called to tell us that a plane crashed into the World Trade Center. We didn't have television at that time, so we turned on the radio. We listened to the news about it when the second one hit. That's when we knew that it wasn't an accident.
We dropped in on the neighbors and saw some of the images on their tv. The smoke was billowing out of the towers and I couldn't believe what I was seeing. After the Pentagon was hit, the base was put on high alert and the friend that took my son to school said that it took two hours to get back on the base. The base police were searching each car individually. It was like this for a while. The base personnel was also put on alert and told to prepare for anything, even deployment. It was very tense all over base, somber and heavy. I think people were walking around in a numb state for a while. I was nervous because I didn't know if my husband was going to be sent away. I was only 21 and had two little ones. I knew that this was the possibility when I married military. You can't be prepared for it, but you do your best.
We dropped in on the neighbors and saw some of the images on their tv. The smoke was billowing out of the towers and I couldn't believe what I was seeing. After the Pentagon was hit, the base was put on high alert and the friend that took my son to school said that it took two hours to get back on the base. The base police were searching each car individually. It was like this for a while. The base personnel was also put on alert and told to prepare for anything, even deployment. It was very tense all over base, somber and heavy. I think people were walking around in a numb state for a while. I was nervous because I didn't know if my husband was going to be sent away. I was only 21 and had two little ones. I knew that this was the possibility when I married military. You can't be prepared for it, but you do your best.
Friday, September 08, 2006
Baseball in the Fall
Today was my first day of service learning (volunteering) at the ESL class. It was pretty interesting. The first class is a small one where the students (all adults) are learning the basics of speaking and writing English. The second class was much larger and they were learning to read. They had to change a paragraph from present tense to past tense and I was able to answer a lot of questions and give help where needed. I'm going to be trying to go three days a week for an hour a day. I will finish my 20 required hours in about 6-7 weeks. Chances are good that I may continue to volunteer after that though.
School is going well. I think this is the first semester that I have really enjoyed all of my classes. Theory can be a snoozer, but has its moments of interest. I do know, however, that I have no interest to pursue a career, let alone anymore classes, in the field of theory.
My son has decided to no longer take his acting class. He felt that it was taking up too much of his time and I don't think he enjoyed it enough to stick to the time commitment. I suggested taht maybe he would like to check out a theater acting class as opposed to the film acting that he was doing. He seems more interested in that and we may check out a class soon. I want to be a parent that opens up such opportunities to try out and see what they might take an interest in. I had to make sure that he was quitting the class for a real reason that he had given some thought to and not just because he didn't want to go that day. I think my kids will be more well-rounded and willing to try new things if I create these opportunities and chances for them. They will be starting soccer next week and my husband will be coaching one of the teams. This should be interesting since neither of them have ever played soccer and I'm not very knowledgeable about it myself. My son has played baseball before. Speaking of, I will be playing intramural softball this semester. I figured that I needed something to keep me physically active since I haven't been to the gym in ages...I also really like baseball.
BIG NEWS! I have a friend, Hobby, that was planning to attend grad school in England in less than a month and has changed her plans. After much prayer and thought, she has decided to not move across the big pond alone for a year. I'm sad and happy. Happy cause I would miss her like crazy and sad cause she now feels directionless. I keep telling her that something is in the works and there is a path already laid out that she just needs to be patient enough to find in time. I know how she feels though. Riding on only faith and hope can be hard and scary. I love her and she will do well in anything she does.
BIGGER NEWS! Nope, can't really be specific. But it involves a close friend and the sound of bells surrounded by white?! Any ideas!?
Well, better go for now...got a softball meeting.
School is going well. I think this is the first semester that I have really enjoyed all of my classes. Theory can be a snoozer, but has its moments of interest. I do know, however, that I have no interest to pursue a career, let alone anymore classes, in the field of theory.
My son has decided to no longer take his acting class. He felt that it was taking up too much of his time and I don't think he enjoyed it enough to stick to the time commitment. I suggested taht maybe he would like to check out a theater acting class as opposed to the film acting that he was doing. He seems more interested in that and we may check out a class soon. I want to be a parent that opens up such opportunities to try out and see what they might take an interest in. I had to make sure that he was quitting the class for a real reason that he had given some thought to and not just because he didn't want to go that day. I think my kids will be more well-rounded and willing to try new things if I create these opportunities and chances for them. They will be starting soccer next week and my husband will be coaching one of the teams. This should be interesting since neither of them have ever played soccer and I'm not very knowledgeable about it myself. My son has played baseball before. Speaking of, I will be playing intramural softball this semester. I figured that I needed something to keep me physically active since I haven't been to the gym in ages...I also really like baseball.
BIG NEWS! I have a friend, Hobby, that was planning to attend grad school in England in less than a month and has changed her plans. After much prayer and thought, she has decided to not move across the big pond alone for a year. I'm sad and happy. Happy cause I would miss her like crazy and sad cause she now feels directionless. I keep telling her that something is in the works and there is a path already laid out that she just needs to be patient enough to find in time. I know how she feels though. Riding on only faith and hope can be hard and scary. I love her and she will do well in anything she does.
BIGGER NEWS! Nope, can't really be specific. But it involves a close friend and the sound of bells surrounded by white?! Any ideas!?
Well, better go for now...got a softball meeting.
Thursday, September 07, 2006
The Funniest of All
I found this on dribbleglass.com under the section for funny photos. The funniest part of it all? This is in my hometown, on the outskirts. I recognized it immediately. How random is that?!
Wednesday, September 06, 2006
Here and There
Please excuse the lack of Joke of the Day yesterday. Been a little here and there lately. Exciting news: I will be doing some teacher's aiding at an alternative school with a class of adult student that are just learning the read and write English. Hope it works out well. The teacher I was assigned to is supposed to be pretty great.
MAN OF THE HOUSE
The husband had just finished a book titled, "Man of the House." He stormed into the house and walked right up to his wife. Pointing a finger in her face, he said, "From now on, I want you to know that I am the man of this house, and my word is law! I want you to prepare me a gourmet meal tonight, and when I'm finished eating my meal, I expect a sumptuous dessert afterward. Then, after dinner, you're going to draw me a bath so I can relax. And, when I'm finished with my bath, guess who's going to dress me and comb my hair?" "The funeral director?" said his wife.
MAN OF THE HOUSE
The husband had just finished a book titled, "Man of the House." He stormed into the house and walked right up to his wife. Pointing a finger in her face, he said, "From now on, I want you to know that I am the man of this house, and my word is law! I want you to prepare me a gourmet meal tonight, and when I'm finished eating my meal, I expect a sumptuous dessert afterward. Then, after dinner, you're going to draw me a bath so I can relax. And, when I'm finished with my bath, guess who's going to dress me and comb my hair?" "The funeral director?" said his wife.
Tuesday, September 05, 2006
New Poems
Silence
Silence sighed hastily in the corner.
Patience was not a virtue for her.
The room’s dark colored the space between us.
What do you say to silence?
Would she disappear?
I have the instincts of a lemur, so I should’ve seen this coming.
Last night, I sat in the station when Tom introduced me to Silence.
We waited for the train that was late due to traffic.
Who knew traffic occurred on train tracks?
Perhaps it wasn’t late, it just seemed to last forever.
Silence wore too much bling, in my opinion.
The shimmering stars of the oblivion winked down at us.
Silence sat heavily between me and Tom.
That’s the night that the lights went out in Georgia.
Or maybe they were only out at the 9th Street station.
Tom seemed pretty comfortable in the dark with Silence.
She had a “je ne sais quois” that eluded me.
So, now we sit in my room, pictures of Tom cover every wall.
How could he give me this treatment?
Silent, I sit while Silence sighs hastily in the corner.
Good Morning to You
I come from a modest household.
Green grass, white house, painted smiles.
Milk is brought to the door and laid by the news.
The used bottle set out the night before lays shattered on the porch.
I lie on my cot, shivering in the early heat.
I hear bacon sizzling in the hot fat, splattering her apron.
Dishes clink on the table harder than usual.
Another day in hell has begun.
So I followed her tall full body down the hall.
The heat of the stove glues the sweaty, oily apron to her.
The table is pregnant with eggs, toast, pancakes, and juice.
More food than usual…It’s going to be a really bad day.
Silence sighed hastily in the corner.
Patience was not a virtue for her.
The room’s dark colored the space between us.
What do you say to silence?
Would she disappear?
I have the instincts of a lemur, so I should’ve seen this coming.
Last night, I sat in the station when Tom introduced me to Silence.
We waited for the train that was late due to traffic.
Who knew traffic occurred on train tracks?
Perhaps it wasn’t late, it just seemed to last forever.
Silence wore too much bling, in my opinion.
The shimmering stars of the oblivion winked down at us.
Silence sat heavily between me and Tom.
That’s the night that the lights went out in Georgia.
Or maybe they were only out at the 9th Street station.
Tom seemed pretty comfortable in the dark with Silence.
She had a “je ne sais quois” that eluded me.
So, now we sit in my room, pictures of Tom cover every wall.
How could he give me this treatment?
Silent, I sit while Silence sighs hastily in the corner.
Good Morning to You
I come from a modest household.
Green grass, white house, painted smiles.
Milk is brought to the door and laid by the news.
The used bottle set out the night before lays shattered on the porch.
I lie on my cot, shivering in the early heat.
I hear bacon sizzling in the hot fat, splattering her apron.
Dishes clink on the table harder than usual.
Another day in hell has begun.
So I followed her tall full body down the hall.
The heat of the stove glues the sweaty, oily apron to her.
The table is pregnant with eggs, toast, pancakes, and juice.
More food than usual…It’s going to be a really bad day.
Kiss me, I'm Irish!
TOMBSTONE
Three tipsy Irishmen were in a cemetery, searching for the oldest person buried there. One of the men, Shamus, yells out, "Here's a fella that died when he was 145 years old!" "What was his name?" asks Paddy. Shamus lights a match to see what else is written on the stone marker, and exclaims, "Miles, from Dublin."
Three tipsy Irishmen were in a cemetery, searching for the oldest person buried there. One of the men, Shamus, yells out, "Here's a fella that died when he was 145 years old!" "What was his name?" asks Paddy. Shamus lights a match to see what else is written on the stone marker, and exclaims, "Miles, from Dublin."
Monday, September 04, 2006
In Memoriam
Rest in Peace, Steve Irwin. Crocodile Hunter. 44 years old.
Husband to Terri, Father to Bindi and Bob, Educator to Many.
Some people make such a large mark in the world that when they depart it,
it is felt by all.
God Bless You and Your Family.
Saturday, September 02, 2006
A little tipsy
Almost forgot the Joke of the Day!
LEANING OVER
One evening a family brings their frail, elderly mother to a nursing home and leaves her, hoping she will be well cared for. The next morning, the nurses bathe her, feed her a tasty breakfast, and set her in a chair at a window overlooking a lovely flower garden. She seems fine, but after awhile she slowly starts to lean over sideways in her chair. Two attentive nurses immediately rush up to catch her and straighten her up. Again she seems fine, but after awhile she starts to tilt to the other side. The nurses rush back and once more bring her back upright. This goes on all morning. Later the family arrives to see how the old woman is adjusting to her new home. "So, Ma, how is it here? Are they treating you all right?" they ask. "It's pretty nice," she replies. "Except they won't let you fart."
An extra one for tomorrow:
LONG SERVICE
Two little old ladies were attending a rather long church service. One leaned over and whispered, "My butt is going to sleep." "I know," replied her companion, "I heard it snore three times."
LEANING OVER
One evening a family brings their frail, elderly mother to a nursing home and leaves her, hoping she will be well cared for. The next morning, the nurses bathe her, feed her a tasty breakfast, and set her in a chair at a window overlooking a lovely flower garden. She seems fine, but after awhile she slowly starts to lean over sideways in her chair. Two attentive nurses immediately rush up to catch her and straighten her up. Again she seems fine, but after awhile she starts to tilt to the other side. The nurses rush back and once more bring her back upright. This goes on all morning. Later the family arrives to see how the old woman is adjusting to her new home. "So, Ma, how is it here? Are they treating you all right?" they ask. "It's pretty nice," she replies. "Except they won't let you fart."
An extra one for tomorrow:
LONG SERVICE
Two little old ladies were attending a rather long church service. One leaned over and whispered, "My butt is going to sleep." "I know," replied her companion, "I heard it snore three times."
Saturday, what a day, groovin' all week with you!
It's a comfortable Saturday at home and I can breathe a bit. I had to write two papers yesterday and my brain was exhausted afterwards. So, now I am watching one of my fav movies on tv..."You've Got Mail". I'm not sure what the appeal of it is for me because it's technically classified as a love story. Not usually my thing, except for the occasional love film every ten years. But I love how it depicts New York, so romanticized and charming. The parks, the little shops, the markets, and the beautiful architecture. I think that I would really like NY and hope to find out soon. NY and Venice are my first top choices for family vacations.
I think another appeal is the literary angle of the movie. The main character owns a children's bookstore, the man of interest is the CEO of a bookstore corporation, another woman is an editor, another man is a journalist, and so on. I think that would be my niche in NY...the literary world. I even watched "Renaissance Man" with Danny DeVito earlier today because they were discussing Shakespeare's Hamlet. How nerdy am I? But it fills my soul when surrounded by literature and it intrigues me to see the many different ways to teach and share its beauties with others. Everyone should be introduced to at least one great book, whether they eventually love it or hate it. At least they had been exposed to something that made them think and will always be a part of who they are. I know...I'm getting a bit heavy. But I have a real passion for the written word. There's nothing like a good book transporting to you to another life, time, and place. I love it.
So, I have a friend that I have known for a while that is in a serious (I hate using that word, it implies a lack of fun) relationship. They seem to be sure that marriage is in the future for them. I find it fascinating to watch this unfold. I have never actually seen a friend fall in love. She is one of my best friends and yet I also feel a maternal protectiveness towards her. I have seen her go from a carefree dating machine to a committed, smitten girlfriend. I'm somewhat amazed and in awe of this sequence of events. I worry about if she is completely sure of it, if she has seen the future without the rose-colored glasses. I know that I had no idea what I was getting into when I married. When people marry (without the trial period of living together), they really can't anticipate the work, the humility, and the patience that is required, even in the happiest of marriages. However, I also know that it is very worth the effort. Maybe it's a good thing that newlyweds don't have such insight, or they would change their minds. I just sit on worry pins when I think of her, and hope for the best, like I know I will do when my children fall in love...when they're in their 30's. ;)
I think another appeal is the literary angle of the movie. The main character owns a children's bookstore, the man of interest is the CEO of a bookstore corporation, another woman is an editor, another man is a journalist, and so on. I think that would be my niche in NY...the literary world. I even watched "Renaissance Man" with Danny DeVito earlier today because they were discussing Shakespeare's Hamlet. How nerdy am I? But it fills my soul when surrounded by literature and it intrigues me to see the many different ways to teach and share its beauties with others. Everyone should be introduced to at least one great book, whether they eventually love it or hate it. At least they had been exposed to something that made them think and will always be a part of who they are. I know...I'm getting a bit heavy. But I have a real passion for the written word. There's nothing like a good book transporting to you to another life, time, and place. I love it.
So, I have a friend that I have known for a while that is in a serious (I hate using that word, it implies a lack of fun) relationship. They seem to be sure that marriage is in the future for them. I find it fascinating to watch this unfold. I have never actually seen a friend fall in love. She is one of my best friends and yet I also feel a maternal protectiveness towards her. I have seen her go from a carefree dating machine to a committed, smitten girlfriend. I'm somewhat amazed and in awe of this sequence of events. I worry about if she is completely sure of it, if she has seen the future without the rose-colored glasses. I know that I had no idea what I was getting into when I married. When people marry (without the trial period of living together), they really can't anticipate the work, the humility, and the patience that is required, even in the happiest of marriages. However, I also know that it is very worth the effort. Maybe it's a good thing that newlyweds don't have such insight, or they would change their minds. I just sit on worry pins when I think of her, and hope for the best, like I know I will do when my children fall in love...when they're in their 30's. ;)
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