So after a nap, a hefty dose of Aleve and mac and cheese with tator tots (served up by the darling hubby), I was able to get my report cards done. I also managed to bubble in the district assessment forms. Hooray me!
And can I just say one thing? (Ha! As if you could STOP me!) We do WAY too much standardized assessment in schools these days. It is has taken the better part of two weeks to get all the testing done. It's stressful for the students. It's stressful for the teachers. And it takes up time that could be better spent actually LEARNING something. I'm not saying we don't need to be keeping track of the students' progress...I'm just saying there are better ways to do it than these DAMN standardized tests. That's right - I said DAMN. :)
Okay. My head is still hurting so I am going to crawl off to bed and hope that it all goes away before morning. Goodnight. Sleep tight. Don't let the bedbugs bite. And if they do, take off your shoe and beat them til their black and blue. (How violent! That was taught to me by my 4th or 5th grade teacher. I gather they say it differently around here.)
Wednesday, February 26, 2003
This week's group therapy session was about...
this article:
1. How do you usually handle incompetence in others?
Usually I am pretty patient - a byproduct of my time spent with children. However in the face of continued, overwhelming incompetence I have been known to loose my cool. I try to remember that the first people I talk to are not usually the ones who messed up. So I try to be polite and not take my frustrations out on them. It doesn't always work, but I try.
2. What is the worst case of incompetence that you have experienced?
Hmm. The first one that comes to mind is my experience with lovely Sprint. The hoopla I went through trying to get my first cell phone working was just rediculous. And then they asked me if I would like to switch my long distance to them. HAHA. I'm sure I have dealt with worse, but I can't think of it right now.
3. Have you ever had a moment of incompetence yourself?
Of course. Multiple times.
4. Do you have (or have you had) someone in your personal life who is (was) consistently incompetent? Explain.
My roommate in college was a bit on the space cadet side. Especially when it came to things we shared. But I don't know if I would label her consistently incompetent.
5. How do you deal with the individual in question 4?
I pretty much just sucked it up. It was only for 3 years. And most of the time she was very nice.
6. Do you have (or have you had) someone in your work/school life who is (was) consistently incompetent? Explain.
Hmm. I guess I have been fortunate enough to avoid having someone like this for very long. My high school principal was worthless - I do remember that.
7. How do you deal with the individual in question 6?
I was 16. He was the principal of the school. What could I do? I made it my responsibility to stop him in the hallway and ask him questions like "So, how is this new discipline strategy working?" or "Do you think there are enough teachers in the halls between classes for adequate supervision?". It made him uncomfortable.
Extra Credit: Find a way to repair something in your life that could breed incompetency. For instance, I bought a PDA so that I could more easily remember my appointments. I use webmail so that I can always have my e-mail at my disposal. Blog about your "fixes."
I make lists and write everything down because I know that I have a lousy memory. I have planners for my year, my month, my week and my day. I take copious notes on everything from parent teacher conferences to staff meetings to good books. I use Ready Notes, a wonderful little computer program to keep notes on all kinds of things.
this article:
1. How do you usually handle incompetence in others?
Usually I am pretty patient - a byproduct of my time spent with children. However in the face of continued, overwhelming incompetence I have been known to loose my cool. I try to remember that the first people I talk to are not usually the ones who messed up. So I try to be polite and not take my frustrations out on them. It doesn't always work, but I try.
2. What is the worst case of incompetence that you have experienced?
Hmm. The first one that comes to mind is my experience with lovely Sprint. The hoopla I went through trying to get my first cell phone working was just rediculous. And then they asked me if I would like to switch my long distance to them. HAHA. I'm sure I have dealt with worse, but I can't think of it right now.
3. Have you ever had a moment of incompetence yourself?
Of course. Multiple times.
4. Do you have (or have you had) someone in your personal life who is (was) consistently incompetent? Explain.
My roommate in college was a bit on the space cadet side. Especially when it came to things we shared. But I don't know if I would label her consistently incompetent.
5. How do you deal with the individual in question 4?
I pretty much just sucked it up. It was only for 3 years. And most of the time she was very nice.
6. Do you have (or have you had) someone in your work/school life who is (was) consistently incompetent? Explain.
Hmm. I guess I have been fortunate enough to avoid having someone like this for very long. My high school principal was worthless - I do remember that.
7. How do you deal with the individual in question 6?
I was 16. He was the principal of the school. What could I do? I made it my responsibility to stop him in the hallway and ask him questions like "So, how is this new discipline strategy working?" or "Do you think there are enough teachers in the halls between classes for adequate supervision?". It made him uncomfortable.
Extra Credit: Find a way to repair something in your life that could breed incompetency. For instance, I bought a PDA so that I could more easily remember my appointments. I use webmail so that I can always have my e-mail at my disposal. Blog about your "fixes."
I make lists and write everything down because I know that I have a lousy memory. I have planners for my year, my month, my week and my day. I take copious notes on everything from parent teacher conferences to staff meetings to good books. I use Ready Notes, a wonderful little computer program to keep notes on all kinds of things.
My head hurts like you wouldn't believe right now. For no good reason, which is quite frustrating. I had a very nice day, got lots done and enjoyed my class to the max. But since aoubt lunchtime my head has been just POUNDING. Ugh. I have report cards to write. I can't afford to be laid up. Stupid head.
Tuesday, February 25, 2003
Some people don't have enough to worry about. This is just silly. I especially like the last line of the article. My thoughts EXACTLY.
This week's This or That questions...
1. Holland or Netherlands? Netherlands.
2. Emu or Ostrich? Aren't these two different things? If not, I have been mistaken all my life. How sad.
3. Biff or Happy? um...biff? I don't even know what that means. I guess I have to go with happy.
4. Quincy or Braintree? Neither. Univ. of WI - Stout
5. Cassius Clay or Muhammad Ali? I couldn't care less.
6. Instabul or Constantinople? Istanbul.
7. Pig or Swine? Pig.
8. Barf or Puke? Throw up if using it as a verb. Vomit if it's a noun.
9. Potatoes or Spuds? Potatoes. And spuds. And fries. And chips. And tators. And anything else as long as it means potato. I like potatoes. YUM.
10. Squeeze Box or Accordion? Accordion.
1. Holland or Netherlands? Netherlands.
2. Emu or Ostrich? Aren't these two different things? If not, I have been mistaken all my life. How sad.
3. Biff or Happy? um...biff? I don't even know what that means. I guess I have to go with happy.
4. Quincy or Braintree? Neither. Univ. of WI - Stout
5. Cassius Clay or Muhammad Ali? I couldn't care less.
6. Instabul or Constantinople? Istanbul.
7. Pig or Swine? Pig.
8. Barf or Puke? Throw up if using it as a verb. Vomit if it's a noun.
9. Potatoes or Spuds? Potatoes. And spuds. And fries. And chips. And tators. And anything else as long as it means potato. I like potatoes. YUM.
10. Squeeze Box or Accordion? Accordion.
Monday, February 24, 2003
I am a happy camper tonight. This morning I finally got fed up with my stupid computer and the many ways it screws with my mind every day. Lately it has been crashing in the middle of programs and I have been having to reboot every time I go to Zander's site. I couldn't take it any more. With Mikey's help, I backed up my hard drive and completely reinstalled Windows. I spent the entire day waiting for it to go through the process and then reinstalling all the programs I use. I have rebooted about 60 times! But it is no longer crashing in the Zander Zone and I have things just about back to normal. I like it. :)
UPDATE: And my babysitting for the night was cancelled so I get to keep playing around rather than going out in the icky weather. Life is good.
UPDATE: And my babysitting for the night was cancelled so I get to keep playing around rather than going out in the icky weather. Life is good.
Better late than never, right? These are from Friday Five...
1. What is your most prized material possession?
I guess that would have to be my house. I am extremely proud to be a homeowner at the age of not-quite-25 and I put a lot of time and effort into taking care of it. I enjoy the work too. I know that there are many people who work their whole lives trying to get to where I am now and I try not to forget that.
2. What item, that you currently own, have you had the longest?
Since I was about 10, I have had a black t-shirt with a silkscreened image of two dalmations with red bows and heart-shaped spots. I distinctly remember the day that my father bought it for me. I agonized over which color and which picture and what size. I remember finally deciding to get an extra large so that I could bunch it up and clip it at my hip. It must have reached down to my knees when we got it, because it is still long enough to wear as a dress. I have worn it and washed it so often that it is a faded grey and the dalmations are nearly gone. Just this past year it has started to get little holes where there just isn't enough fabric to hold it together anymore. I still wear it to bed. I am going to be sad when it finally disintegrates. I have a feeling that it will get a prized spot in a memory box, rather than being tossed into the ragbag.
3. Are you a packrat?
Um. I am going to save a shirt when it can't be worn because of it's sentimental value. That would be a big, fat YES! I save everything. I always have. One year in highschool, I was in a play. In one of the scenes someone dropped a peice of pottery and it broke. I enjoyed the play so much that I saved a peice from every single pot that got broken - even in rehearsal. Probably about 10 in all. I have spent my entire life collecting junk because it triggers some kind of memory. I have disposed of large amounts of said junk at 2 key points in my life. I trimmed down the flotsom of my youth when I moved to college. (Actually, I didn't so much trim it down as I just left it behind. Sorry, mom!) and I did a thorough dusting of the memory shelves when I moved to California. That was easier because there were lots of memories I didn't want to bring with me. It just gave me more room to start collecting again. It's all junk and it is all important in some way.
4. Do you prefer a spic-and-span clean house? Or is some clutter necessary to avoid the appearance of a museum?
If I were rich, I would have a huge house with many rooms, each dedicated to some aspect of my life - a sewing room, an exercise room, a book room, an arts and crafts room - so that I could leave the materials needed for each activity out and still not have a mess. And I would have a maid to keep all those rooms dusted and vacuumed. I like to have organized clutter. What I have is more like disorganized tidiness. There IS a difference, you know.
5. Do the rooms in your house have a theme? Or is it a mixture of knick-knacks here and there?
My guest bedroom is where I put all my hippy stuff. It has tie-dyed pillows, a picture of a unicorn and some 60's themed black velvet posters that I colored myself. My guest bathroom is done in the K-Mart (or is it Target) Celestial theme, focusing largely on the sun/moon motif and accented with anything with a sun on it that I can get my hands on. These are the only two rooms I have that are themed in any way. The rest of the house is a mish-mash of all the junk that I have collected over the years. My ecclectic collection of knick-knacks is held in check only by my husband's sparce, monastic approach to decorating. We balance each other out nicely and it is quite comfy, even if I do say so myself.
1. What is your most prized material possession?
I guess that would have to be my house. I am extremely proud to be a homeowner at the age of not-quite-25 and I put a lot of time and effort into taking care of it. I enjoy the work too. I know that there are many people who work their whole lives trying to get to where I am now and I try not to forget that.
2. What item, that you currently own, have you had the longest?
Since I was about 10, I have had a black t-shirt with a silkscreened image of two dalmations with red bows and heart-shaped spots. I distinctly remember the day that my father bought it for me. I agonized over which color and which picture and what size. I remember finally deciding to get an extra large so that I could bunch it up and clip it at my hip. It must have reached down to my knees when we got it, because it is still long enough to wear as a dress. I have worn it and washed it so often that it is a faded grey and the dalmations are nearly gone. Just this past year it has started to get little holes where there just isn't enough fabric to hold it together anymore. I still wear it to bed. I am going to be sad when it finally disintegrates. I have a feeling that it will get a prized spot in a memory box, rather than being tossed into the ragbag.
3. Are you a packrat?
Um. I am going to save a shirt when it can't be worn because of it's sentimental value. That would be a big, fat YES! I save everything. I always have. One year in highschool, I was in a play. In one of the scenes someone dropped a peice of pottery and it broke. I enjoyed the play so much that I saved a peice from every single pot that got broken - even in rehearsal. Probably about 10 in all. I have spent my entire life collecting junk because it triggers some kind of memory. I have disposed of large amounts of said junk at 2 key points in my life. I trimmed down the flotsom of my youth when I moved to college. (Actually, I didn't so much trim it down as I just left it behind. Sorry, mom!) and I did a thorough dusting of the memory shelves when I moved to California. That was easier because there were lots of memories I didn't want to bring with me. It just gave me more room to start collecting again. It's all junk and it is all important in some way.
4. Do you prefer a spic-and-span clean house? Or is some clutter necessary to avoid the appearance of a museum?
If I were rich, I would have a huge house with many rooms, each dedicated to some aspect of my life - a sewing room, an exercise room, a book room, an arts and crafts room - so that I could leave the materials needed for each activity out and still not have a mess. And I would have a maid to keep all those rooms dusted and vacuumed. I like to have organized clutter. What I have is more like disorganized tidiness. There IS a difference, you know.
5. Do the rooms in your house have a theme? Or is it a mixture of knick-knacks here and there?
My guest bedroom is where I put all my hippy stuff. It has tie-dyed pillows, a picture of a unicorn and some 60's themed black velvet posters that I colored myself. My guest bathroom is done in the K-Mart (or is it Target) Celestial theme, focusing largely on the sun/moon motif and accented with anything with a sun on it that I can get my hands on. These are the only two rooms I have that are themed in any way. The rest of the house is a mish-mash of all the junk that I have collected over the years. My ecclectic collection of knick-knacks is held in check only by my husband's sparce, monastic approach to decorating. We balance each other out nicely and it is quite comfy, even if I do say so myself.
How long will it take YOU to figure out the trick behind this Psychic Flash Program? I never would have gotten it - but Mikey figured it out in about 5 minutes. Good luck and have fun with it! I found this over at Zander's. Thanks, Joni.
(this post is from yesterday when Blogger wouldn't let me post)
My darling husband made me creme puffs this morning. He filled them with vanilla pudding, homemade raspberry sauce and whipped cream. You have NO IDEA how good they were. I ate 3 of them in about 7 minutes (including the time needed for making the second and third ones!). Delish. I think I will keep him around.
My darling husband made me creme puffs this morning. He filled them with vanilla pudding, homemade raspberry sauce and whipped cream. You have NO IDEA how good they were. I ate 3 of them in about 7 minutes (including the time needed for making the second and third ones!). Delish. I think I will keep him around.
Saturday, February 22, 2003
Michele (a small victory) challenged her ever faithful readers to explain what it was they liked about America, one state at a time. The response was overwhelming and with the help of friend Solonar (Solonar's Groovy Grove of Mystical Wonders) there is now an entire blog dedicated to it. Go read up on all the reasons to love our country at What's Not to Like?. And feel free to add your two cents. Or however much spare change you have rattling around in your pockets.
What a nice morning and what a frustrating evening. I woke up early this morning and lounged in bed, reading, until nearly 10. Mikey and I did some fun shopping (I found a couple of really cute shirts), had a nice Thai lunch and spent some time at the local discount bookstore. Then I volunteered in the library bookstore for a few hours. Mikey picked me up and we spent some more time in the Crown Books before heading home. All that was very nice. I was hoping to play with the new House Design program we picked up. Bus, alas, technology was against me tonight. The program was BEYOND frustrating and my mouse wasn't working right. I finally gave up after it crashed on me the third time and played with my Sims characters instead. Then, joy of joys, Amy and Joie were BOTH online. This brings you to my current situation. I can talk to Amy. I can talk to Joie. But when I try to talk to both something goes wonky and it doesn't happen. At this point it is looking like I am going to go to bed sad and cranky. I hate that.
Wednesday, February 19, 2003
I am terrified that I am not doing my job right. I am wracked with guilt that I might have taught some concept a little better, explained an activity a little clearer, understood a child's emotions a little deeper. I am afraid that I am failing. Failing to communicate well enough with the parents. Failing to get through to the children. Failing to do my fair share of the work. I wake up at night wondering if I am prepared enough for the next day. I stop in the middle of what I am doing to wonder if I shouldn't be doing something more school related. Despite (or perhaps because of) her encouraging words and the complete absence of any complaints, I fear that my partner is disappointed in what I am doing, but I hesitate to ask for fear of being a bother.
I am adrift in the midst of a vast sea of expectations and I just read the find print on my raft: "For entertainment purposes in shallow water only. Not to be used as an emergency floatation device." I don't know how much longer I can doggie paddle my way through this. And the more frightened I become the harder it gets to keep my head above water. Panic never helps, but I am panicking.
What do I do?
I am adrift in the midst of a vast sea of expectations and I just read the find print on my raft: "For entertainment purposes in shallow water only. Not to be used as an emergency floatation device." I don't know how much longer I can doggie paddle my way through this. And the more frightened I become the harder it gets to keep my head above water. Panic never helps, but I am panicking.
What do I do?
Tuesday, February 18, 2003
I feel for the people who are stranded in the ice and snow. I really do. I've been there, done that, moved away. But do we really need to spend 45 minutes of a 60 minute news program discussing the snow? All I wanted was to hear about In-N-Out's "secret menu". Instead I got to see 15 minutes of snow footage from Washington DC. Then 15 minutes of snow footage from New York. THEN, 15 minutes of snow footage from Boston. I mean, snow is snow is snow. Yes, it's a TON of snow. It's a big deal. IF YOU LIVE THERE. The rest of us can watch the weather channel if we're really all that interested.
Here's why I don't go to the casino very often. When I do go, it's usually to lose about $10 and go home. I can do that because I only bring $10 cash and my ID card. I have NO self control. I would be in BIG trouble if I were stranded with nothing to do but put quarters in the one-armed bandits!
Okay. Here's the deal. We need to make some changes. I have been reading some of the nastiest, cattiest, most insulting things on blogs lately. And hearing similar things in real life. All from people who seem to be good, kind people most of the time. So it's time to make a change. We can choose one of two options.
1. All Nice, All the Time
For this option it becomes the rule that everyone MUST consider every living thing to be EXACTLY as important as you are. No more, no less. Everything is equal. All the time.
2. Everyone For Themselves
For this option, we do away with all rules and regulations and let every living thing fend for itself. If you can't figure out a way to beg, borrow or steal what you need to survive, then you aren't meant to be here. You see something I have that you would like? Let's fight over it and let Darwin sort it out. Bring it on, baby.
No more of this "we need to treat others with respect - unless we disagree with them". Do away with the "all people are equal - as long as they all look like me". Wrap up the "nuclear weapons are bad - unless I'm in charge of them" attitude and chuck it. This hypocrisy has got to go. It is not doing ANYONE any good. Time to head for one extreme or the other. Let's go, people, choose up sides.
1. All Nice, All the Time
For this option it becomes the rule that everyone MUST consider every living thing to be EXACTLY as important as you are. No more, no less. Everything is equal. All the time.
2. Everyone For Themselves
For this option, we do away with all rules and regulations and let every living thing fend for itself. If you can't figure out a way to beg, borrow or steal what you need to survive, then you aren't meant to be here. You see something I have that you would like? Let's fight over it and let Darwin sort it out. Bring it on, baby.
No more of this "we need to treat others with respect - unless we disagree with them". Do away with the "all people are equal - as long as they all look like me". Wrap up the "nuclear weapons are bad - unless I'm in charge of them" attitude and chuck it. This hypocrisy has got to go. It is not doing ANYONE any good. Time to head for one extreme or the other. Let's go, people, choose up sides.
Sunday, February 16, 2003
To help out a friend in need, I will be doing double duty on the blog-front for awhile. Zander has asked for volunteers to keep his site up and running while he gets down and dirty in his fight for his health. I hope that I can do the job justice.
Saturday, February 15, 2003
New Friday Five...
1. Explain why you started to journal/blog.
At first it was an attempt to open a communication channel with members of my family who live far away. However, it has evolved into a personal journal of sorts. The only one I have ever been able to maintain for more than a week.
2. Do people you interact with day to day or family members know about your journal/blog? Why or why not?
My family knows about it. A few of them stop in regularly, some come when I tell them that there is something they should see, but most aren't interested. That's okay with me. The only friends who know about it are my online friends. I haven't told any of my truly day to day people - co-workers, friends, etc. - partly because I like having a place to talk about them, and partly because they already think I'm a little nuts. I don't need to give them tangible evidence!
3. Do you have a theme for your journal/blog?
I guess it would be "Me". I post what I am thinking, feeling, learning, experiencing. Of course, there is little rhyme or reason to how I communicate these things. It's a mish-mash. Kinda like my brain.
4. What direction would you like to have your journal/blog go in over the next year?
It would be fun to have more visitors. I am a bit of a showoff, I guess. But really, I would just be impressed if I was still doing it. I have really taken to it and I like having a journal form that I can stick with. It is good for me to get this stuff out of my head. It just rattles around in there, taking up space.
5. Pimp five of your favorite journals/blogs.
Hmm...my 5 favorites...I guess I would say that number five is Silent in the Morning. I haven't been reading it long, but I really enjoy what I have seen so far. Note the previous post dedicated entirely to it. Number four would be In Passing, a very interesting blog that journals things that have been overheard and people's interpretations of them. There are some very funny, very intelligent people there. Plus they give you a Froot Bat if you post. Mine's named Tweak. Number three is a tie between two bloggers who I read fairly regularly. Michele (a small victory) and Rob (Gut Rumbles) are both terrific parents, both keep their fingers on the political pulse of the world, and both post things that make me think and piss me off on a regular basis. Keeps me on my toes. Number two is also a tie. Joie (Moving On) and Amy (News about Amy) were both raised in my home state of Minnesota and some of my favorite online chats have been with the two of them. I miss those.
Number one would have to be the Z-man himself, Zander. But I already told you why...
1. Explain why you started to journal/blog.
At first it was an attempt to open a communication channel with members of my family who live far away. However, it has evolved into a personal journal of sorts. The only one I have ever been able to maintain for more than a week.
2. Do people you interact with day to day or family members know about your journal/blog? Why or why not?
My family knows about it. A few of them stop in regularly, some come when I tell them that there is something they should see, but most aren't interested. That's okay with me. The only friends who know about it are my online friends. I haven't told any of my truly day to day people - co-workers, friends, etc. - partly because I like having a place to talk about them, and partly because they already think I'm a little nuts. I don't need to give them tangible evidence!
3. Do you have a theme for your journal/blog?
I guess it would be "Me". I post what I am thinking, feeling, learning, experiencing. Of course, there is little rhyme or reason to how I communicate these things. It's a mish-mash. Kinda like my brain.
4. What direction would you like to have your journal/blog go in over the next year?
It would be fun to have more visitors. I am a bit of a showoff, I guess. But really, I would just be impressed if I was still doing it. I have really taken to it and I like having a journal form that I can stick with. It is good for me to get this stuff out of my head. It just rattles around in there, taking up space.
5. Pimp five of your favorite journals/blogs.
Hmm...my 5 favorites...I guess I would say that number five is Silent in the Morning. I haven't been reading it long, but I really enjoy what I have seen so far. Note the previous post dedicated entirely to it. Number four would be In Passing, a very interesting blog that journals things that have been overheard and people's interpretations of them. There are some very funny, very intelligent people there. Plus they give you a Froot Bat if you post. Mine's named Tweak. Number three is a tie between two bloggers who I read fairly regularly. Michele (a small victory) and Rob (Gut Rumbles) are both terrific parents, both keep their fingers on the political pulse of the world, and both post things that make me think and piss me off on a regular basis. Keeps me on my toes. Number two is also a tie. Joie (Moving On) and Amy (News about Amy) were both raised in my home state of Minnesota and some of my favorite online chats have been with the two of them. I miss those.
Number one would have to be the Z-man himself, Zander. But I already told you why...
AAHHHhhhhhh....
I worked at the library bookstore this afternoon and after poking around a bit I found new books by not 1, not 2, but 4 of my favorite authors.
The Forgotten by Faye Kellerman,
Flesh and Blood by Jonathon Kellerman,
Reunion in Death by JD Robb, and
P is for Peril by Sue Grafton.
For $2 a book. I can't wait to get started!! I am going to have a Murder Mystery Marathon!!!
I worked at the library bookstore this afternoon and after poking around a bit I found new books by not 1, not 2, but 4 of my favorite authors.
The Forgotten by Faye Kellerman,
Flesh and Blood by Jonathon Kellerman,
Reunion in Death by JD Robb, and
P is for Peril by Sue Grafton.
For $2 a book. I can't wait to get started!! I am going to have a Murder Mystery Marathon!!!
Dang it. I caught my engagement ring on the dryer door and it got completely twisted out of shape. I was able to drop it off with Mr. Carlson at Wine Country Jewelers (a friendly, wonderful guy who made choosing our wedding bands a very pleasant experience) and he said he would be able to fix it. However, my left hand feels quite nekkid without it.
Yesterday after the children whined about one of my requests being "UNFAIR" we had a talk about how sometimes life is unfair. That sometimes you just have to "deal" and "get over it". That's how it goes.
And today, as if to prove my point, I came face to face with one of life's most unfair moments. My friend Zander, the charming 16 year old whom I have mentioned before, has been diagnosed with cancer. Not only is it unfair that someone in thier teens should have to face cancer on top of the normal teenaged angst, but it is even more unfair that it should happen to Zander. He has already dealt with so much and worked so hard to get to the place he is now. Despite a history of abuse and illness he is well adjusted, kind, funny and thoughtful. I have the utmost respect for him and the thought of him having to go through more trials breaks my heart. It seems strange to be so emotionally attached to someone I have never met in person, but I have spent the afternoon mourning the loss of his childhood. I count him among my friends and I am always sad to see him pained in any way.
OK. Enough of that.
I know that things will turn out for the best. Zander will beat this and any further tests with the strength of his heart and the power of the love which surrounds him. I feel that he is meant for great things and I can't wait to see them happen. Please include this amazing young man in your prayers and your thoughts. He needs all the healing power he can get right now.
Be strong, Zander. Fight this with everything you have and don't ever give up. We are all here for you.
I wish you Peace, I wish you Health and I wish you Joy.
And today, as if to prove my point, I came face to face with one of life's most unfair moments. My friend Zander, the charming 16 year old whom I have mentioned before, has been diagnosed with cancer. Not only is it unfair that someone in thier teens should have to face cancer on top of the normal teenaged angst, but it is even more unfair that it should happen to Zander. He has already dealt with so much and worked so hard to get to the place he is now. Despite a history of abuse and illness he is well adjusted, kind, funny and thoughtful. I have the utmost respect for him and the thought of him having to go through more trials breaks my heart. It seems strange to be so emotionally attached to someone I have never met in person, but I have spent the afternoon mourning the loss of his childhood. I count him among my friends and I am always sad to see him pained in any way.
OK. Enough of that.
I know that things will turn out for the best. Zander will beat this and any further tests with the strength of his heart and the power of the love which surrounds him. I feel that he is meant for great things and I can't wait to see them happen. Please include this amazing young man in your prayers and your thoughts. He needs all the healing power he can get right now.
Be strong, Zander. Fight this with everything you have and don't ever give up. We are all here for you.
I wish you Peace, I wish you Health and I wish you Joy.
Wednesday, February 12, 2003
Make your own candy hearts. I love it! I made a bunch.
and 
were my favorites.
I got my link from Howl.
and were my favorites.
I got my link from Howl.
Dang. A site I think I am going to really enjoy. Fifty Minute Hour. Not only is there a political blog that I can relate to, but there is also a personal blog (Silent in the Morning) that promises to be very good reading. Covering everything from choosing to be childless to standing ovations to the Super Bowl , it's all entertaining and quite often right on the money. I am looking forward to this.
Everything is WET. It has been raining FOREVER. I didn't know SoCal could get so much rain at one time. Heck, I didn't know SoCal could get so much rain in one year! Help me, I'm drowning!
Okay, that isn't exactly true. I am dry. I haven't stepped outside for the last 72 hours though. It would be nice to get the mail, but I don't have a boat.
Okay, that isn't exactly true. I am dry. I haven't stepped outside for the last 72 hours though. It would be nice to get the mail, but I don't have a boat.
I don't know much about cricket or Zimbabwe, but I do know that what these men did took a lot of courage. Kudos.
*brought to my attention by Amy over at Fifty Minute Hour, a potential new addition to my daily reads.
*brought to my attention by Amy over at Fifty Minute Hour, a potential new addition to my daily reads.
Okay...Michele over at A Small Victory has written exactly what I was planning to write about Valentine's Day. Is it cheating to just tell you to read what she wrote? Probably. But I'm gonna do it anyway. Sums the whole holiday up very nicely in my mind.
Valentine's Day is a crock of falsehoods. It does more harm than good. Have you ever been that kid in class who got three valentines while everyone else got 20? Have you ever sat home crying in your beer and eating a pint of chocoalte chip mint ice cream while burning pictures of your ex? Then you know. You know how Valentine's Day only causes pain. Even for the guys who have a girlfriend because they feel they can't live up to the expectations that the media has set for them as far as presents go.
I am not expecting any problems in my class due to the fact that I have a wonderful, friendly group of kids. But that didn't stop me from reminding them that they either bring treats for EVERYONE or they bring them for NOONE. I remember what it was like.
I am also not expecting any hurt feelings on the home front. We don't celebrate on Feb 14th. It's just another day and it will be no more and no less romantic than usual. We are going to go to the opening of DareDevil because that happens to be the day it opens. I will probably snuggle up to Mikey in the theatre. That's what you DO in a theatre. Then we are going to get something cheap and unromantic for dinner (Fish Sandwich? Yum!) and we are going to completely ignore Valentine's Day. Then, someday when Mikey is least expecting it, I am going to surprise him with a fun, romantic evening. Not because Hallmark tells me too...but because he's the bestest and I like to surprise him.
So there. Michele said it better. Go read her post.
Valentine's Day is a crock of falsehoods. It does more harm than good. Have you ever been that kid in class who got three valentines while everyone else got 20? Have you ever sat home crying in your beer and eating a pint of chocoalte chip mint ice cream while burning pictures of your ex? Then you know. You know how Valentine's Day only causes pain. Even for the guys who have a girlfriend because they feel they can't live up to the expectations that the media has set for them as far as presents go.
I am not expecting any problems in my class due to the fact that I have a wonderful, friendly group of kids. But that didn't stop me from reminding them that they either bring treats for EVERYONE or they bring them for NOONE. I remember what it was like.
I am also not expecting any hurt feelings on the home front. We don't celebrate on Feb 14th. It's just another day and it will be no more and no less romantic than usual. We are going to go to the opening of DareDevil because that happens to be the day it opens. I will probably snuggle up to Mikey in the theatre. That's what you DO in a theatre. Then we are going to get something cheap and unromantic for dinner (Fish Sandwich? Yum!) and we are going to completely ignore Valentine's Day. Then, someday when Mikey is least expecting it, I am going to surprise him with a fun, romantic evening. Not because Hallmark tells me too...but because he's the bestest and I like to surprise him.
So there. Michele said it better. Go read her post.
Okay. I have to spend a few minutes giving myself a pat on the back. I have just spent the entire day redesigning my photo page. Colors, layout, everything...and I did it mostly by myself. Just ask Mikey...I didn't hardly bother him at all. And there was no screaming and cursing. : ) Go, look, then come back and tell me what a good job I did. Did I mention that I figured out the color codes for myself? Well, with the help of Mikey, PaintShopPro and some html website...but ALMOST by myself! I also added a "home page" and a "favorites page". Hee hee. I feel so smart right now! : )
Okay. That's enough of that. I am done. Thanks for your patience!
Okay. That's enough of that. I am done. Thanks for your patience!
I applaud this new Sony advertisement. I like it. I like it ALOT. Here's a brief article that goes along with it.
***GRR. I couldn't get to the actual download page. Click on the link in the article. I hope you have better luck than I did.
***GRR. I couldn't get to the actual download page. Click on the link in the article. I hope you have better luck than I did.
Tuesday, February 11, 2003
This is paraphrased from something I just heard on CNN.
Reporter: Isn't it true that we are seeing increased anti-american feelings world-wide, not from the governments (who are supporting us), but from the people in the streets through polls and anecdotal evidence?
Ari Fleischer: These governments are representative of the people of their countries. I don't think that the governments would be supporting us if that weren't the predominent feeling of the people.
Yes, Mr. Fleischer, because all the world is a democracy. There is no dishonesty, no falsehood. Governments do exactly what we would have them do. Even I know that this isn't the case. Even in this country...a republic...as close to a democracy as you will see in the world these days...that STILL isn't how it works. Please. All the wool over my eyes is making my itch.
UPDATE: Here is the link to the White House press release of Mr. Fleischer's press briefing.
Reporter: Isn't it true that we are seeing increased anti-american feelings world-wide, not from the governments (who are supporting us), but from the people in the streets through polls and anecdotal evidence?
Ari Fleischer: These governments are representative of the people of their countries. I don't think that the governments would be supporting us if that weren't the predominent feeling of the people.
Yes, Mr. Fleischer, because all the world is a democracy. There is no dishonesty, no falsehood. Governments do exactly what we would have them do. Even I know that this isn't the case. Even in this country...a republic...as close to a democracy as you will see in the world these days...that STILL isn't how it works. Please. All the wool over my eyes is making my itch.
UPDATE: Here is the link to the White House press release of Mr. Fleischer's press briefing.
No, No, NO. A thousand times NO. I wish the power of my convictions had any real strength at all. I wish there were SOMETHING I could do to protect the world. Alas, I am one small speck. I am miniscule. I am nothing. And we are all rushing headlong toward the destruction of the human race. With no seatbelts. And no brakes.
Monday, February 10, 2003
"All the things you ever tried to tell me, somehow don't apply to you...and you say you're okay, but you live your life like it's over..."
"Will you see you like me? And believe what I see? Will you listen and remember that I love you...only because I told you so?"
I can't ever say these words to the people that need to hear them. Even if I could, they most likely wouldn't mean the same things to them that they mean to me. But these lyrics from two different Jonatha Brooks songs pierce into my heart each time I hear them. If only I had the words. If only they would hear me. If only...if only...if only.
Goodnight.
"Will you see you like me? And believe what I see? Will you listen and remember that I love you...only because I told you so?"
I can't ever say these words to the people that need to hear them. Even if I could, they most likely wouldn't mean the same things to them that they mean to me. But these lyrics from two different Jonatha Brooks songs pierce into my heart each time I hear them. If only I had the words. If only they would hear me. If only...if only...if only.
Goodnight.
Sunday, February 09, 2003
Better late than never, right? These are from Friday Five...
1. What did you have for breakfast this morning? If you didn't have breakfast, why not?
Homemade tortillas with cheese.
2. What's your favorite cereal?
Crispix. Kix. Cheerios. Anything that you can eat as a snack. I rarely eat cereal for breakfast, but I love to munch on it. I did have some of the new Mixed Berry Cheerios the other morning...YUM! The milk was all purple and berry flavored when I was done.
3. How often do you eat out? Do you want that to change?
As often as financially possible. I never miss an opportunity. In fact, we are discussing going out tonight because we smelled BBQ chicken cooking when we went on our walk, but neither of us feels like cooking. The only change I wish for is that I wouldn't have to worry about being able to afford it. I wish I could go out whenever I wanted.
4. What do you plan on having for dinner tonight? Got a recipe for that?
I want to have BBQ chicken. If I can't have that, I want BBQ ribs. I am in the mood for something sticky and messy. If I had a recipe for it that would fit my current appetite, I wouldn't have to go out! Feel free to share yours, tho!
5. What's your favorite restaurant? Why?
Why limit myself by picking a favorite? I like so many...Iron Wok for Chinese, Rosa's for Mexican, Farmer Boys for burgers, Skewer's BBQ for Thai, Aloha J's for Pan-Atlantic, Hungry Hunter for big hunks of red meat, Souplantation for buffet-style...and there are so many places we haven't gotten around to trying. I like them all!
1. What did you have for breakfast this morning? If you didn't have breakfast, why not?
Homemade tortillas with cheese.
2. What's your favorite cereal?
Crispix. Kix. Cheerios. Anything that you can eat as a snack. I rarely eat cereal for breakfast, but I love to munch on it. I did have some of the new Mixed Berry Cheerios the other morning...YUM! The milk was all purple and berry flavored when I was done.
3. How often do you eat out? Do you want that to change?
As often as financially possible. I never miss an opportunity. In fact, we are discussing going out tonight because we smelled BBQ chicken cooking when we went on our walk, but neither of us feels like cooking. The only change I wish for is that I wouldn't have to worry about being able to afford it. I wish I could go out whenever I wanted.
4. What do you plan on having for dinner tonight? Got a recipe for that?
I want to have BBQ chicken. If I can't have that, I want BBQ ribs. I am in the mood for something sticky and messy. If I had a recipe for it that would fit my current appetite, I wouldn't have to go out! Feel free to share yours, tho!
5. What's your favorite restaurant? Why?
Why limit myself by picking a favorite? I like so many...Iron Wok for Chinese, Rosa's for Mexican, Farmer Boys for burgers, Skewer's BBQ for Thai, Aloha J's for Pan-Atlantic, Hungry Hunter for big hunks of red meat, Souplantation for buffet-style...and there are so many places we haven't gotten around to trying. I like them all!
This afternoon I read a beautiful, haunting poem over at Artichoke Heart's blog. It is a poem that she submitted to the Poets Against the War website. Check it out.
After thinking a bit more about Vanilla Sky, I have come to this conclusion...
The moral of the story is that if you find a chance at true love you shouldn't fool around with it. (Climb into a car with another woman instead of going home like a good boy, for example) Because NOTHING - not even a sci-fi, futuristic dream machine will bring it back.
So there. Watch the movie. The more I think about it, the more I like it.
The moral of the story is that if you find a chance at true love you shouldn't fool around with it. (Climb into a car with another woman instead of going home like a good boy, for example) Because NOTHING - not even a sci-fi, futuristic dream machine will bring it back.
So there. Watch the movie. The more I think about it, the more I like it.
The following conversation took place while I was preparing my class for the field trip. We were playing a little game in which they had to tell me whether they agreed or disagreed with each statement.
Teacher: OK...agree or disagree? "I will take my shoes off if my feet start to hurt."
Students: NOO!! (lots of shaking heads and thumbs down signs.)
Teacher: Good. We shouldn't be taking our shoes off for any reason. That is why we are going to wear our most comfortable sneakers tomorrow.
TIME PASSES
Teacher: (Calling on a student who is raising his hand.) Yes?
Student: But what if a spider crawls inside our shoe?? If we don't get it out, it could bite us!
I reassured him that if he got a spider in his shoe we would get it out. I also told the whole class that if they felt is was necessary to break a rule that they needed to check with me first. This brought on a rash of other concerns...
Student: What if a coyote tries to get us?
Teacher: They are afraid of us and they will probably all be hiding when they hear us coming.
Student: What about a mountain lion that isn't afraid of us?
Teacher: Park rangers wouldn't let us go there if there were animals that would hurt us. However, we do have to be careful by staying with the group and not making them feel threatened.
Student: What if I get a sprained ankle?
Teacher: They have first aid kits there.
Student: What if someone gets lost?
Teacher: No one will get lost.
What a bunch of worry worts I have! They managed to have a very good time. And I was right...No one got lost! : ) Or eaten by a mountain lion. Although I did see a sign warning that one of the trails was closed due to a mountain lion sighting! I am just glad that none of the kids noticed!
Teacher: OK...agree or disagree? "I will take my shoes off if my feet start to hurt."
Students: NOO!! (lots of shaking heads and thumbs down signs.)
Teacher: Good. We shouldn't be taking our shoes off for any reason. That is why we are going to wear our most comfortable sneakers tomorrow.
TIME PASSES
Teacher: (Calling on a student who is raising his hand.) Yes?
Student: But what if a spider crawls inside our shoe?? If we don't get it out, it could bite us!
I reassured him that if he got a spider in his shoe we would get it out. I also told the whole class that if they felt is was necessary to break a rule that they needed to check with me first. This brought on a rash of other concerns...
Student: What if a coyote tries to get us?
Teacher: They are afraid of us and they will probably all be hiding when they hear us coming.
Student: What about a mountain lion that isn't afraid of us?
Teacher: Park rangers wouldn't let us go there if there were animals that would hurt us. However, we do have to be careful by staying with the group and not making them feel threatened.
Student: What if I get a sprained ankle?
Teacher: They have first aid kits there.
Student: What if someone gets lost?
Teacher: No one will get lost.
What a bunch of worry worts I have! They managed to have a very good time. And I was right...No one got lost! : ) Or eaten by a mountain lion. Although I did see a sign warning that one of the trails was closed due to a mountain lion sighting! I am just glad that none of the kids noticed!
Thursday, February 06, 2003
Just finished watcching Vanilla Sky. If you are looking for a movie that takes you on a rollercoaster ride of questions and emotions and confusion...this is the one for you. I intensely disliked how it kept me unbalanced for 2 hours of the 2 hour and 15 minute length, but I did enjoy the premise of the story. Once I figured out what the hell was going on. It's a crazy ride and not at all what I was expecting. Did the guys who did the ads even SEE the movie?
I am going to read for 15 minutes...ONLY 15, I SWEAR!...and then I am resting up for my big day trip with the kiddies.
I am going to read for 15 minutes...ONLY 15, I SWEAR!...and then I am resting up for my big day trip with the kiddies.
I am engrossed in a book. (See the right sidebar for the name and author.) It is one of those stories that I get sucked into and hours go by before I come up for air. This is not a problem on my off days. But when I can't get myself to close the book until near midnight and I have to get up for school at 6:30 the next morning it makes for a cranky 3rd grade teacher. Perhaps my previous post is a little wrong. Perhaps *I* am driving my *kids* crazy. I will be making myself go to bed at a reasonable time tonight.
Tuesday, February 04, 2003
I am a little ashamed to say this, but I have a favorite poem. (That's not the shameful part. Keep reading.) It is part of an SUV commercial. (I know...Boo...Hiss...) All I can say in my defense is, I'm not the only one! I keep hoping that it will turn out that it was written by someone other than an ad guy. Can anyone help me out??
Nobody Knows It But Me
"There's a place where I travel
When I want to roam
And nobody knows it but me
The roads don't go there
And the signs stay home
And nobody knows it but me
It's far far away
And way way afar
It's over the moon and the sea
And wherever you're going
That's where you are
And nobody knows it but me"
UPDATE: It appears that the Chevy ad man, Patrick O'Leary, is also a published author. I think it's a damn fine poem, even if it WAS written for a Tahoe commercial.
Nobody Knows It But Me
"There's a place where I travel
When I want to roam
And nobody knows it but me
The roads don't go there
And the signs stay home
And nobody knows it but me
It's far far away
And way way afar
It's over the moon and the sea
And wherever you're going
That's where you are
And nobody knows it but me"
UPDATE: It appears that the Chevy ad man, Patrick O'Leary, is also a published author. I think it's a damn fine poem, even if it WAS written for a Tahoe commercial.
I am pleased to see that there are a few bloggers out there who think an intelligent conversation would be more interesting and more useful than the mud slinging and name calling that has been predominant regarding war with Iraq. I have linked both of the hosting sights - Truth Laid Bear (pro-war) and Stand Down (anti-war) - and will be avidly checking in to see how the proposed debate goes. Who knows...I might even gather up the courage to participate. They are currently asking for questions to be considered for the debate. Head on over to your site of choice and throw in your two cents. Heck...throw in a whole quarter if you've got it!
This just doesn't seem right to me.
Bear
What Is Your Animal Personality?
brought to you by Quizilla
I retook it and I'm not thrilled with this one either. Hmph.
Badger
What Is Your Animal Personality?
brought to you by Quizilla
Bear
What Is Your Animal Personality?
brought to you by Quizilla
I retook it and I'm not thrilled with this one either. Hmph.
Badger
What Is Your Animal Personality?
brought to you by Quizilla
I always thought I was alone in my feelings of ineptitude when it came to driving. Not so! I have been lucky enough to read someone else's accounting of a trip from navigational hell and I now know that I am part of an elite group! : ) Read the Artichoke Heart's story and know that you have gotten a peek inside my head, too.
My name is Sol and I am Directionally Dyslexic.
My name is Sol and I am Directionally Dyslexic.
Monday, February 03, 2003
"You like snow, but only if it's warm. You like rain, but only if it's dry."
That is how I feel right now. Very contradictory. Poor Mikey. I always feel sorry for him when he has to put up with these nasty little clouds. But not TOO sorry for him. He knew all about the strangeness that is me and still agreed to get married.
So far today I have lost power to my house, broke a nail, scraped my finger, banged my shin, and gone all the way to school for something that wasn't happening. I think I will pull all the shades and watch a movie while snuggling someone warm. That always makes things better.
That is how I feel right now. Very contradictory. Poor Mikey. I always feel sorry for him when he has to put up with these nasty little clouds. But not TOO sorry for him. He knew all about the strangeness that is me and still agreed to get married.
So far today I have lost power to my house, broke a nail, scraped my finger, banged my shin, and gone all the way to school for something that wasn't happening. I think I will pull all the shades and watch a movie while snuggling someone warm. That always makes things better.
Sunday, February 02, 2003
Hey! It's February 2nd!! Groundhog's Day!!!
Hmm. It used to be more fun. My dad always was a fan of Feb. 2nd. We would throw a big party, inviting all our friends, and party into the night. There were often close to 200 people there. The kitchen would be stuffed with potluck dishes, the porch overflowing with beer and the woods ringing with laughter. No one really cared what Punxsutawney Phil said. The grownups just wanted a break from the winter stresses and the kids wanted a chance to stay up WAY past their bedtimes and watch questionable movies (Spaceballs was played many times!). I don't know what I liked best...the warm crowd chatting in the house, stuffing their faces with potato salad and smoked turkey or the chilly group huddled around the bonfire, discussing politics and playing music...I guess I spent most of my time wandering back and forth between the two soaking up the love and togetherness. I liked those parties.
No big party today. But I did check in with the Grand Wazoo himself this morning. Being the nasty little fellow that he is, he gave an evil little laugh, sneered and sentenced us all to 6 more weeks of winter. Guess I didn't bring him enough grog.
Hmm. It used to be more fun. My dad always was a fan of Feb. 2nd. We would throw a big party, inviting all our friends, and party into the night. There were often close to 200 people there. The kitchen would be stuffed with potluck dishes, the porch overflowing with beer and the woods ringing with laughter. No one really cared what Punxsutawney Phil said. The grownups just wanted a break from the winter stresses and the kids wanted a chance to stay up WAY past their bedtimes and watch questionable movies (Spaceballs was played many times!). I don't know what I liked best...the warm crowd chatting in the house, stuffing their faces with potato salad and smoked turkey or the chilly group huddled around the bonfire, discussing politics and playing music...I guess I spent most of my time wandering back and forth between the two soaking up the love and togetherness. I liked those parties.
No big party today. But I did check in with the Grand Wazoo himself this morning. Being the nasty little fellow that he is, he gave an evil little laugh, sneered and sentenced us all to 6 more weeks of winter. Guess I didn't bring him enough grog.
Have something witty or profound to say? Write it on a Napkin!
"Am I the only one who questions that Cinderella was the ONLY girl in the kingdom with that particular shoe size?"
"Blood is thicker than water. But the goldfish don't seem to like it as much."
"Have you noticed how great escalators are? They never break down. They just turn into stairs."
"Would a slinky on an escalator just keep going forever?"
There's more. They are funny. Go. Read. Now.
"Am I the only one who questions that Cinderella was the ONLY girl in the kingdom with that particular shoe size?"
"Blood is thicker than water. But the goldfish don't seem to like it as much."
"Have you noticed how great escalators are? They never break down. They just turn into stairs."
"Would a slinky on an escalator just keep going forever?"
There's more. They are funny. Go. Read. Now.
I am a little concerned. I am enjoying my life. It is really good. I mean REALLY. I have everything I ever wanted to have and more. I have been lucky beyond imagination. I have my health. I have my family. I have my friends. I have a house. I have money to buy things. I have good food. I have it all. If I were to be at this level of satisfaction for the rest of my life I would be happy. More than happy.
My concern is this: I keep meeting people - adults - who are unhappy. Either they are in debt or they are lonely or they are too fat or too skinny or too busy or not busy enough. No one is happy. Everyone I see is wishing their life were somehow different than it is. Some of them made obvious mistakes. Others just woke up one morning and realized that they weren't happy. Many of them don't even seem to know why they are unhappy. Just that they are.
So how do I avoid that? How do I keep from making those mistakes? How do I keep sight of my goals without letting myself fall into dispair if I can't reach them as soon as I plan? How do I stay happy? I don't want to be as...lost...as those I see around me. I am a little concerned that I won't be able to master this trick. After all, if it were easy, everyone would do it. Right?
My concern is this: I keep meeting people - adults - who are unhappy. Either they are in debt or they are lonely or they are too fat or too skinny or too busy or not busy enough. No one is happy. Everyone I see is wishing their life were somehow different than it is. Some of them made obvious mistakes. Others just woke up one morning and realized that they weren't happy. Many of them don't even seem to know why they are unhappy. Just that they are.
So how do I avoid that? How do I keep from making those mistakes? How do I keep sight of my goals without letting myself fall into dispair if I can't reach them as soon as I plan? How do I stay happy? I don't want to be as...lost...as those I see around me. I am a little concerned that I won't be able to master this trick. After all, if it were easy, everyone would do it. Right?
Saturday, February 01, 2003
Friday Five...
1. As a child, who was your favorite superhero/heroine? Why?
Um...does Leonardo from the Teenaged Mutant Ninja Turtles count? Oh, well, I guess Superman then. I had a serious crush on Dean Cain while he was doing Lois and Clark. I never really got into the superhero thing. I did read a lot of Elfquest tho. Maybe I shouldn't admit that. Too late now! :)
2. What was one thing you always wanted as a child but never got?
Again, I am looking at my teenaged years. I always wanted a leather jacket. I PINED for a leather jacket. I forced my friends and family to let me try them on while we were shopping. I still don't have one. I do, however, get to wear Mikey's whenever I want. That's even better. It smells just like him.
3. What's the furthest from home you've been?
Russia. I was there for 6 weeks as part of a school exchange. I loved it.
4. What's one thing you've always wanted to learn but haven't yet?
Sign language. It is on my big list of classes I would like to take someday. Somehow it never quite works out.
5. What are your plans for the weekend?
I am getting chores done, getting some exercise, calling my family, watching Coyote Ugly, and doing some planning for school.
(I was having fun googling all those things. There are some very strange fan sites for some of those topics!)
1. As a child, who was your favorite superhero/heroine? Why?
Um...does Leonardo from the Teenaged Mutant Ninja Turtles count? Oh, well, I guess Superman then. I had a serious crush on Dean Cain while he was doing Lois and Clark. I never really got into the superhero thing. I did read a lot of Elfquest tho. Maybe I shouldn't admit that. Too late now! :)
2. What was one thing you always wanted as a child but never got?
Again, I am looking at my teenaged years. I always wanted a leather jacket. I PINED for a leather jacket. I forced my friends and family to let me try them on while we were shopping. I still don't have one. I do, however, get to wear Mikey's whenever I want. That's even better. It smells just like him.
3. What's the furthest from home you've been?
Russia. I was there for 6 weeks as part of a school exchange. I loved it.
4. What's one thing you've always wanted to learn but haven't yet?
Sign language. It is on my big list of classes I would like to take someday. Somehow it never quite works out.
5. What are your plans for the weekend?
I am getting chores done, getting some exercise, calling my family, watching Coyote Ugly, and doing some planning for school.
(I was having fun googling all those things. There are some very strange fan sites for some of those topics!)
I remember why I don't like getting calls before I wake up. Anything that can't wait until a sensible hour is bound to be bad news. This morning I woke up out of a sound sleep to hear the news that the space shuttle Columbia exploded over Texas as it was landing this morning. I haven't turned on the news. This news is bad enough in my imagination. I don't want to watch footage repeatedly. My thoughts go to the friends and family of all aboard the shuttle. I can't imagine what they must be feeling right now. I guess there's nothing to say to them other than "I'm sorry" and "Thank you". The men and women aboard that shuttle went up knowing the dangers and feeling them worth the risk. I appreciate their dedication and I am sorry that space exploration has been ignored the way it has. Hopefully, they haven't given their lives in vain.
Rob said it well...
"I hate that, and I deeply regret the loss of life. But I believe that the US space program has been mired in tar for about 20 years now, and this disaster will make it sink even deeper into that black pit. I'll drink to those who died, but I'll also cuss the ones who made the shuttle and the space station our acme of achievement in space. "
Rob said it well...
"I hate that, and I deeply regret the loss of life. But I believe that the US space program has been mired in tar for about 20 years now, and this disaster will make it sink even deeper into that black pit. I'll drink to those who died, but I'll also cuss the ones who made the shuttle and the space station our acme of achievement in space. "
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