Not only has Zander been busy kicking the butts of some renegade cells, he's been moving his site around. If you had a link to him, you need to change it to http://zanderkind.com . And pass the word on. He's a sad little blue fairie boy because his hits have been down since the move. Head on over, give him some love and let him know that you care.

Garden Update

20 little corn plants have taken up residence in my garden. I eagerly await the dinners of corn on the cob dripping with butter and pepper that I will be having come July. Mmmmmm.

We lost our yellow banana pepper to a band of nefarious snails. They also dined on the leaves of our jalepano and chili peppers (these guys like it spicy, I guess). We never saw any snails during the day and were wondering how exactly they were doing so much damage

4 AM
Snail : "gasp! hurry, guys! let's get out of here...they're coming!!"
(everyone takes off for the wall at top snail speed)

9 AM
(i go out to check the garden)
Snail: "whew! we just made it. that was close!!

until we looked behind the tiles leaning against the wall of the house. Many snails went over the wall. The peppers have been relatively undamaged since then. Sneaky buggers.

The tomatoes and strawberries are looking good. Nothing much to report there.

The sweetpeas are much happier in the full sun than they were over in the shade. I guess reading the labels on the back of the seed pack is a good idea, after all. Who wudda thunk it?

Ever since I was very small my body has reacted the same way to pain. It totally freaks out. My brain just overloads and forgets important things, like breathing. All I have to do is stub my toe or mash a finger and my head gets light and my vision gets spotty. This morning when I caught my finger in the window I actually had to lie down for a couple minutes to keep from passing out. Rediculous.

My house is PRETTY!

This morning the sun was shining so nicely that I finally got tired of having to peer through the dirt on my windows and screens to see it. I got out a bucket of soapy water, a rag and the hose and went to work. Pausing only to bandage myself after an altercation with a window that didn't want to close until my fingers were in the way, I scrubbed and sprayed until those windows sparkled. At least on the outside. Now if I can just work up the motivation to clean the insides too, I would be a happy camper indeed.

My favorite office tool is the little alligator guy who removes staples. It's so cute and useful. Especially when the fire inspector comes to your school and is appalled at the amounts of paper on the walls in all the classrooms and demands that everyone lower their carefully handcrafted bulletin boards by 24" (yeah...2 whole feet!) by April 7th. That guy really comes in handy in that situation.

(this was one of the many random thoughts going through my tired, pee-em-essey, overworked mind as I started my 11th hour of work today, rearranging yet another bulletin board - please...feel sorry for me...)

I am not one of those women who get all crampy and bloaty and sore with my period. The side-effects of my cycle are mostly psychological. My ability to adapt to new situations and think on my toes is the first thing to go. Which is rough for someone in my profession. Usually I can face all manner of crisis easily...
Skinned knee?
Bandaged...
Lost pencil?
Replaced.
Child acting strangely?
Surprise visit by a parent?
Answering 4 phone calls in a row while trying to teach 2 different math lessons AND put up a bulletin board?
NO PROBLEM. All in a days work.

But for a few days each month I lose the ability to cope with surprises. It leaves me confused, distracted, frustrated and cranky. It makes my students look bad...until I remember that they are always like this...it's just that normally I like those annoying habits they have. Or at least I can look past them. Ugh. Poor kids.

I got Sims Theme Park today and I have stayed up MUCH too late playing it. I am off to bed, but I remembered something I wanted to post earlier.

For lunch, we went to Chili's. We got to sit outside in the sunshine and two ducks came by to beg at our table. We obeyed the signs and did not feed them, although it was obvious that many people do just the opposite. I had their Veggie and Smoked Cheese Quesadilla and Mikey had a Black Bean (patty) Burger. They were both terrific. I have to learn how to make those black bean patties, because...YUM. Hooray for finding tasty meatless meals at restaurants. Not always an easy thing to do.

Whoo hoo! The new Linkin Park album came today!!

"If you want to end war and stuff, you've got to sing loud."
~ Arlo Guthrie, Alice's Restaurant

As Amy and I were discussing today, it is challenging to find and cook yummy dishes when you are used to eating/cooking meat. It takes a whole different mind set. My mind is resisting to being re-set. No matter how balanced the meal, I still feel like something is missing when I don't have chicken or fish or some other meat on my plate. Got a good, balanced, healthy meal that you like to prepare that is either vegetarian or just as good without the meat? PLEASE share with us!

(guy at dealership) "Be sure to get everything you will need out of your car. We're going to take it now."
(me) "Okay. I've got everything."
2 MIN LATER
(guy, again) "Did you get everything you need out of your car?"
(me, again) "Yep."
(Woman not even a part of the conversation) "Are you sure? Garage door opener? Check book? Everything?"
(me, yet again) "Yep."
(Guy who has my keys holds them up) "Sure?"
(me, AGAIN) "YES."

Apparently they are either very concerned I am going to come back screaming and yelling that I can't get to something in my car once they have it up in the lift, or their mechanics are INCREDIBLY untrustworthy.

Off to the Ford dealership today. I got a recall notice a LOOOOONG time ago and I have finally gotten an appointment to have something or another fixed so as to avoid having the driver side airbag explode for no reason while I am zooming down the freeway. Hooray. I have to have them look at a new oil leak too. The speed bumps at the highschool are so big that the underside of my poor little car couldn't clear them, even though I was driving at a very safe, slow speed. (I drive a regular Escort, not a lowrider of any sort.) Stupid speedbumps.

The real benefit of this trip is that I have an excuse to wander around town window shopping and no doubt buying lunch for my honey. It's sunny out, so I think we're gonna get sammies and find someplace in the out of doors to eat. Aaaahhhh. :)

Although it is getting harder and harder for me to wade through some of the posts over at Michele's, I am impressed with the questions regarding the war that she has presented to the protesters and the answers that have been posted. For the most part it is an actual discussion, a sharing of ideas, rather than a flinging of insults. Check it out.

UPDATE - Get there fast because the discussion is quickly disintegrating into the usual rhetoric and bitchslapping that we are seeing WAY TOO MUCH of lately. *sigh*

I am a week behind with This or That...deal with it. :)

1. Cold frosty ski slopes or warm sandy beach?
Warm sandy beach, blended fruit drink, coconut flavored sunscreen, a good book and a lot of free time.

2. Chevy or Ford?
Currently, a Ford Escort. But I would drive a Civic Hybrid if I had my choice. And a lot more money than I have.

3. Mac or PC?
PC. Although I can find my way around a Mac when I need to.

4. Dial-up or high speed internet access?
DSL. Mikey and I are both internet junkies and we couldn't share a dial-up connection in a civilized fashion.

5. Small *family-only* wedding or large 200+ guest wedding?
There were less than 30 people. It was small, intimate and perfect.

6. Would you rather be the bridesmaid or the bride? (if you are a guy, substitute best man or groom)
I have never been a bridesmaid. I don't plan to ever be one. And I don't think my husband is interested in making this a polygamous marriage. Not that I am.

7. AC/DC or ABBA?
I was raised in a hippy household. I go for the Beatles, the Mamas and the Papas, and Jimi Hendrix.

8. Roses or daisies?
Daisies. Gerbera daisies.

9. Trashy romance novels or classic literature?
A healthy mixture of them both!

10. NEW! Thought-provoking question of the week...If you had to choose one...would you rather be blind or deaf? Why?
I think I would be better able to adjust to being deaf. And I have always wanted to learn sign language. But I would miss the sound of Mikey's voice.

Participation Positives are a way to start each week off on the right foot. List the things you are thankful for today.

I am thankful for...
*Love,
*the accoustics in my shower,
*the on/off button on my TV,
*the people who like me even if we disagree about something,
*hearing Joy in a voice that has only sounded sad for a long time,
*the complete lack of bombs and air raid sirens in the air above my home,
*seeing the light at then end of what has been a long, dark tunnel,
*my right to speak my mind, no matter how unpopular my opinion may be,
*the glowing Hope I see every day in the shape of kind, generous, loving 3rd graders,
*the lack of trolls on my blog,

and, of course...
*my wonderful Mikey, who makes every day a little brighter and every load a little lighter.

What are YOU thankful for? Leave me a comment or link.

This post is actually a response to a question in the previous post's comments. It got so long that I decided it would be better to just post it on it's own.

"Don't you think it's quite ironic though that people are protesting the very thing that earned them the right and freedom to assemble in public and protest?"

I don't agree that is what they are doing. They aren't protesting democracy. They aren't protesting our government, they are protesting the current manifestation of our government. They are protesting the way our government is acting right now.

Yes, Saddam is a horrible man who has done horrible things, but two wrongs do not make a right. If my students misbehave it is NOT okay for me to slap them in the face. There are alternative ways of solving conflicts. The current administration is interested in way more than the "good of the Iraqi people" and so didn't WANT to find or use those methods. That is what I am protesting. (I can't speak for anyone but myself.)

There is nothing about the current actions of our government that has given me freedom of speech. In fact, the government and many of its supporters are telling me that I shouldn't be speaking my mind. That I should give up protesting something I believe is wrong just because it's already being done.

No, way. I think that the fact that we are already bombing is all the more reason to speak out. The actuality of our actions is even more appalling to me than the potential we were facing before. I believe that our politicians have made a mistake. And I am not going to allow them to get off the hook by ignoring it, much less condoning it.

If you were refering to protesting against the soldiers, I am not doing that. Although they volunteered to join the army, they did so in a time of peace and with little thought beyond the education and benefits that were promised them. Many were still basically children when they signed up and I don't blame them for what they are doing now. I blame the politicians sitting in their million dollar mansions, watching the war on CNN. I greatly admire the bravery of those men and women who are willing to die for what they believe is right. I saw the terror in the eyes of those POWS yesterday.

Do I think it's ironic that people are protesting our government? No. That is what our government was based on - the individual's right to disagree in a public and vocal manner. Do I find it ironic that those of us who are exercising our constitutional right are being called un-American? Yes. Do I think it's ironic that we are going against the UN to punish someone for going against the UN? Yes.
There are many things about this war that I find ironic and sad and frightening. The existence of protests is not one of them.

Peace be with us all.

To those who are having so much fun slamming the perceived foolishness of a few protesters, let me remind you that there are many more who aren't just about name-calling and silly slogans. For every protester who decides to use a march or rally as their ticket to 5 minutes of fame, there are hundreds who are truly there to voice their concerns and work towards peace. Please don't put us all in the same category as those who just want to confront. Just as you are doing what you think is best, so are we. There is enough death and hatred in the world right now without the mocking, teasing and name-calling. Look to your neighbor and share a moment of friendship with them. Because even if we disagree on the path, we are all striving for the same destination - a better world and a brighter future.

From an article about Saturday's march in New York...

The march went on for hours, gumming up traffic and costing the fiscally stressed city money it can hardly afford. But free speech does not come cheap. "It had a good feel to it," said Police Commissioner Raymond W. Kelly, who spent the day at the march. "Except for that small number of hard-core anarchists bent on having a confrontation with the police, the vast majority were there to express their opinions."

A friend shared this with me recently. It is something to remember in these times of worry. I am a little concerned about where the little guys go at the end of the song...they were right at the edge of the water! I hope they float!

I have a confession to make...

I haven't gotten out of my pajamas all day. I have been busy, but it's all been the kind of busy you can do in your jammies. That is how Sundays should be spent. :)

Friday Five...

1. If you had the chance to meet someone you've never met, from the past or present, who would it be?
Gandhi. I would love to know if I would admire him as much as a real person as I admire his philosophy. I want to have long conversations with him where I ask him how he came to terms with his beliefs and whether he still feels the same way now, knowing that it meant his death.

2. If you had to live in a different century, past or future, which would it be?
I would like to live in pre-Europeanized America. Of course, without the knowledge that is all going to be destroyed in the name of civilization.

3. If you had to move anywhere else on Earth, where would it be?
Kaua'i. In a little hut on the beach. With good snorkling near by. And a Bubba Burger to eat at.

4. If you had to be a fictional character, who would it be?
Don Quixote. He had the courage (or stupidity) to go on believing and acting on those beliefs when all around him ridiculed. I wish I had that.

5. If you had to live with having someone else's face as your own for the rest of your life, whose would it be?
I would like the face of Hello Kitty. Everyone likes Hello Kitty. :)

I refuse to let war be the only thing in my head. I see too many people who are so caught up in the war that they can't talk about anything but the rhetoric the media is pouring into them. I know people who can't sleep, who can't eat, who have continuous nightmares about bombs and carnage. They are so worried about what is going on that their lives have become all war, all the time. And because they are hearing and seeing nothing but war, they can talk about nothing but war. These people have no alternative to discussing (and argueing about) the war with others. They don't know about the latest sports games or the newest reality show. They haven't noticed the weather or read that really good book or seen that really funny movie. The war has claimed their lives and taken over their minds.

I am greatful that my co-workers, my friends, and my family are not suffering in this way. They know what is going on, they have their opinions and thoughts and fears, but none of them have given up their daily lives to sit, watching the scrolling bar on CNN hour after hour. This means that when the political discussions get a little warm we always have something else to talk about. No one hates anyone else, no one gets into a shouting match or throws chairs. Everyone is free to have their beliefs and when those beliefs butt heads too strongly, we have alternatives to discuss. I am not going to lose friends or family ties because of this war. I am not going to let my life be a casualty of the media war.

Questions from my class:
"Is it coming here?"
"Why is Saddam doing these bad things? Why does he want to fight us?"
"Why are we going to war?"
"Are people dying?"

At our school we are taking a very low key approach to the war. The principal mentioned it briefly at Friday Morning Line Up (an all school assembly) yesterday, but other than that we (the teachers) have been told to handle things how we think our students will best understand. I am very aware of the radicalness (yeah? what word would YOU use?) of my approach to this situation and the fact that although I AM in a country with free speech, I need to use a certain amount of diplomacy when exercising that freedom because of my role in the community. In short, I can't tell my students how I really feel. I can allude to it, I can dance around it, I can guide them there through other activities and our daily interactions, but I cannot tell my class that what we are doing is wrong or that our president is making a mistake. 3rd graders don't understand that kind of thing.

What I can do is relate what is happening in Iraq to our schoolwide program of "Peacebuilding". This months theme is "Noticing hurts and righting wrongs". I can explain that our government thinks that their government is hurting people and we are trying to stop it. This doesn't really cover all the aspects of the war, but it is something they can understand. We talked about the media coverage and agreed that, despite how they make is look, war is not fun or exciting. War is bad and no one wants to have a war, although sometimes it is unavoidable. We mentioned that people die during a war. We also discussed the fact that it isn't all Iraqis that we are attacking, just the leaders who have made some very bad decisions. Most importantly, I assured them that we were safe here in Temecula. We looked at the map, noticing the distance between Temecula and Iraq. We talked about the soldiers are so far away from their families and what we can do to support them. I think we will be writing letters and making artwork to send sometime next week.

Our discussion took about 20 minutes and ended with me reminding them that they can always talk to an adult about any questions or concerns they have. Did I answer all their questions? No. Did I tell them what I thought? No. But did I maybe help a little? I think so. And that is all I can ask for right now.

I was walking my class in from recess today when I was suddenly struck by the fact that I was smiling and happy despite my overwhelming fear and sorrow. I was happy because I had been spending the day with innocents. Innocents that someday will be able to change the world. A change that I may somehow help bring about in the way I treat these innocents today. We got to our door and I turned around to give them directions as I usually do. But before telling them to get out their science books and turn to page 35, I stopped. I looked at each of them and smiled. I said "You know what? I like each and every one of you so much. I am very glad that you are in my class. You give me hope. Thank you." Then we quietly went on with our day. They will never know how much I needed their smiling faces and their questions about commas and division and the difference between liquids and solids. They will never know how they saved my spirit today.

I love my husband. I love my family. I love my neighborhood. I love Temecula. I love California. I love the United States. I love North America. I love my planet. I love my solar system. I love my universe. I am filled with love and it radiates from me like a beacon into the furthest reaches of existence. I am love and love is me. We flow over the things I love like a protective blanket. And we are not alone. Love surrounds us and holds us up. Love is real. Real is love.*

(*occasional lyrics borrowed from John Lennon. I don't think he'd mind.)

I have decided that my current stomach problems may be a psychosomatic reaction to the war. It always gets worse as I watch news or read internet information.

Read this...

and then read this...

The trouble is...we aren't so much remembering our history as we are repeating it.

"Insanity: doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results." ~ Albert Einstein

What we are doing now is not going to make the world a more peaceful place. What we are doing now is creating hatred and pain. As I have said before, I fully respect and am truly greatful for the willingness of our soldiers to put their own lives at risk to defend a country that I feel is better than any other out there. However, I am saddened and sickened by the willingness to kill in the name of oil and world domination. Manifest Destiny is alive and kicking and the love our soldiers feel for their country is being used and abused.

I send love and hope to the men and women of all nationalities in Iraq with hopes that we get through this crisis of humanity with as little bloodshed as possible.

"When the world is night, shine my life like a light." ~ Indigo Girls

Now I am going to bed so that when my students come to school scared, and they will, I can help them face this war. The only trouble is...I don't know if I can face it.

Peace return to us all.

It's happening. We are at war. I wish I had waited until the kids had gone home to read blogs. I want to curl up on the couch and sob and instead I have to pretend nothing is happening. I can't even begin to express the depths of sorrow in my heart right now. There is a city full of children who are cowering in their beds right now because of bombs we are dropping. People are dying. May this end swiftly, that we might begin to rebuild our humanity. Peace be with us all, in our souls if not in our world.

To my friends and family. I love you all. Please be well and safe and know I am thinking of you always.

I have two of my favorite kids, A and K, here for a few hours tonight. They are so nice and easy to watch. Uber-polite and very friendly. I spent much of the summer with them and they are always excited, as I am, to spend time together. The kind of kids that leave you impressed with their parents rather than frustrated and disappointed. :)

All the bloodshed all the anger
all the weapons all the greed
all the armies all the missles
all the symbols of our fear
there is a deeper wave than this
rising in the world
~ Sting

There is only one thing on Earth more powerful than evil. And that's us. Any questions?
~ Buffy the Vampire Slayer

Love is you
you and me.
~ John Lennon

Love is the answer.
~ John Lennon

Who the heck to you think you are?
A superstar?
Well, alright you are.
Well we all shine on.
Like the moon and the stars and the sun.
Everyone come on!
Instant Karma's gonna get you.
Gonna knock you off your feet.
Better recognize your brothers.
Everyone you meet.
Why in the world are we here?
Surely not to live in pain and fear.
~ John Lennon

All we are saying is give Peace a chance.
All we are saying is give Peace a chance.
All we are saying is give Peace a chance.
All we are saying is give Peace a chance.
All we are saying is give Peace a chance.
All we are saying is give Peace a chance.
All we are saying is give Peace a chance.
All we are saying is give Peace a chance.
~ John Lennon

Because I am feeling so freakin' helpless today I am going to fill my house with inspirational and hopeful music...

"What if everything is an illusion and nothing exists? In that case, I definitely overpaid for my carpet." ~ Woody Allen

Hee hee.

Dag nab it! It seems as though everyone in the world has a quote by John Allston on their site, but no one can tell me anything at all about the man. Google is even at a loss. HELP!! It's for the children.

No really, it is. I am starting a "quote of the week" thing in my class. Each Wednesday I will present them with a new quote for discussion and journal writing purposes. I would like to be able to present some information about the person being quoted at the same time. I have spent several days looking up info and writing brief synopsis on people like Eleanor Roosevelt, MLK, Jr. and Socrates. Everyone has been quite cooperative except for the elusive Mr. Allston. Please let me know if you can help. :)

"If you don't control your mind, someone else will." John Allston

Nothing like being fed Cheetos by an adoring man to make you feel pampered. He didn't want me to get my dainty fingers all orange. :)

The plan was to go to school and get piles of work done so that I could start the new trimester feeling good and ahead of the game. The reality was that I hauled all my crap to school and got all settled in only to be unable to do ANY work. Every 30 seconds or so I was doubled over with stomach pains that made me want to curl up on the floor and die. I stuck it out until I had at least my plans for tomorrow done and then gave up. I headed home only to realize that my stomach was no longer cramping. Bloody hell. Who needs this kind of day? I am going to curl up under the blankets with my new book and try to read myself into a stupor.

Today's thought of the day was sent to me by my father. He got it from The Sun. It came just when I most needed to hear it. Of course, today I am still feeling prickly and out of sorts. I am going to take my prickly self to the school and get ready for tomorrow so that I can't jab an undeserving Mikey with any venomous spikes. I will, however keep these words in mind and hope that over time they will sooth my confused and desperate mind.

"Stop thinking this is all there is…. Realize that for every ongoing war and religious outrage and environmental devastation and bogus Iraqi attack plan, there are a thousand counter-balancing acts of staggering generosity and humanity and art and beauty happening all over the world, right now, on a breathtaking scale, from flower box to cathedral…. Resist the temptation to drown in fatalism, to shake your head and sigh and just throw in the karmic towel… Realize that this is the perfect moment to change the energy of the world, to step right up and crank your personal volume; right when it all seems dark and bitter and offensive and acrimonious and conflicted and bilious… there’s your opening. Remember magic. And, finally, believe you are a part of a groundswell, a resistance, a seemingly small but actually very, very large impending karmic overhaul, a great shift, the beginning of something important and potent and unstoppable."

~ Mark Morford
(The bold was added by me.)

This (or perhaps last) weeks This or That questions...

1. Married or single? Newlywed! :)
2. Knit or crochet? Cross-stitch
3. Homebody or world traveller? World traveller trapped in a homebody.
4. "Star Search" or "American Idol"? Blech.
5. Dancing or karaoke? Blogging to music?
6. Elvis Presley or Elvis Costello? Elvis Stojko
7. Bus or train? Train! I love to travel by train!!

While in Russia, we travelled by train. As teenagers we were blissfully unaware of the political and economical differences. Until the train conductors realized that some of the cups and napkins that had been passed out for tea time were missing. (No doubt tucked into someone's dufflebag for a souvenir.) They stopped the train and announced that they would be conducting a room by room search for the missing items. I believe that the items had accidentally "rolled under the seat". We finally arrived at our destination, much more aware of the fact that we were NOT in America anymore.

8. Batman or Superman? Daredevil
9. Chocolate or vanilla? Swirled.
10. Which came first...the chicken or the egg? The egg. Some creature (almost a chicken) that laid eggs that hatched a chicken.

All these many posts this week and NO ONE interested enough to comment on a single one! Not true. Amy and Zander have been popping in and out. But that's it. It feels sad and lonely in here.

On an unrelated note (no really, I'm not being clever...it's really unrelated) -

Every time I see Kevin Spacey in a movie I am more impressed. I do like him. Tonight we were watching SE7EN. (They actually use the number 7 instead of a V. NOT really the same.) I was impressed although I missed a few minutes due to the cookie baking going on. So many layers of fun.

This Dr. Seuss poem is dedicated to my cats for their relative behavior last night...


I do not like
this one so well.
All he does
is yell, yell, yell.
I will not have this one about.
When he comes in
I put him out.


This one is
quiet as a mouse.
I like to have [her]
in the house.

Let's wrap this week up...

Weekly Wrap-Up #46
Spring is almost here!
1. What do you like best about Spring? What do you like least?
BEST: The birds chirpping like mad outside my window. That amazing, glowing shade of green that appears when the trees bud. The plethora of flowers. The plum trees that look like pink cotton candy. Sleeping with the window open again. The smell of freshly turned dirt warmed by the sun. My birthday. The approach of summer vacation. Wearing tank tops. Reading on the front porch with my feet in the sun.

LEAST: More slugs, snails, ants and flies. Kids being stuck inside during recess.

2. What is your favorite Spring activity? Why?
Planting my garden. There is something about the smell and feel of dirt...I feel reconnected to the earth after a winter of hiding inside. I like feeling nurturing and caring as I plant and water and feed my little seedlings. Not to mention my dreams of future meals. Nothing tastes quite as satisfying as a tomato or ear of corn grown, harvested and cooked entirely on your own.

3. What do you do to celebrate the end of winter? Why?
See above.

When I vacuum, my kitties get upset.

The little one simply runs away as soon as we open the closet where the Loud Monster lives. She hides under the covers and doesn't come out for hours. She assumes that we, the humans who provide for her every need, will keep the Loud Monster from finding her as she curls up with her paws in her ears, purring the kitty version of "I can't hear you!"

The big boy, on the other hand, chooses to keep the Loud Monster in sight for the entire time that it is out. He follows it around, staying just out of reach. He looks brave, but he is really terrified. This is obvious by the way that he occasionally swats anything that happens to be near him. He seems to be saying "That loud noise is really scary. I know that big machine is responsible, but I am unable to defeat, or even approach, the Loud Monster. In the meantime, this empty shoe is just asking for a beating." His feelings of fear and impotency are so overwhelming that he has to lash out at the nearest object, even though he knows that the shoe really isn't connected to the Loud Monster that is causing the feelings.

Neither of my kitties has a very effective or healthy way of dealing with the Loud Monster. But THEY are cats.

Um. Okay. This is making me wonder if perhaps that fish I had with dinner was a bad idea.

"Word is made flesh as God reveals himself...as a fish."

I think the particularly telling sentence in this article is the one in which it tells the fate of the talking fish. I'm sorry. You have a fish that you believe is either Satan or God (depending on your faith) and you procede to kill it and sell it like any other fish? I DON'T think so. I don't believe these men and that is why.

It's raining, it's pouring,
the old man is snoring...

Oh, Yeah, Baby!


I have recovered my archives in their entirety. Awesome!

And the right sidebar has decided to start updating itself again. Life is GOOD.

Apparently the poles have already switched and Temecula, instead of being a desert, is now a rainforest. Whoo hoo!

UPDATE: Actually, the pole shift is still a good 60 days away. Get your emergency gear together while you still can. Don't forget to pack your Pocket Scrabble and your copy Of Gem Collin's "English Grammar". Very important. I am just sad that I am not going to be able to take that last trip home.

UPDATE 2: I am going to feel really stupid for mocking these people when this really happens and I am one of the ones with no Pocket Scrabble in the Aftertime.

I can tell that it is time for me to get back to work. I have spent too many days in a row sitting around playing on my computer and my knees are not happy with me. I also woke up this morning in a foul mood. I get cranky when I have to entertain myself for too many days in a row. Much like the J's I babysit on Monday nights. I told them I would come early and take them out for a movie and dinner in the food court. Mostly because they've been off school for over a week now and all their free time is starting to grate on their nerves. And listening to them verbally snip at each other all night grates on MY nerves.

After some thinking I have realized why I woke up in a nasty mood. I was dreaming that I was fighting with my sister just before I woke up. We were sitting on a couch and our conversation went the way it normally does when we don't agree. I got high and mighty, she got offended and close-minded, I started to shout, she stopped hearing anything I was saying. It was not pretty. Then Mikey sat down next to me. I turned to him and said "I'm so sorry you are here". But I did attempt to stop shouting at her. She still wasn't understanding what I was trying to say. Then suddenly, the dream turned into a black and white documentary about 1930's public transportation. It was boring, so I woke up. I still had the bitter taste of a useless arguement with my sister in the back of my mouth though.

I am tired of hearing about how musicians and actors shouldn't have an opinion about the war. Yeah, it's annoying to see that they get so much more airtime just because they are famous, but they have as much right as anyone to voice an opinion whether you agree with it or not. If you don't like what they are saying, then hit the mute button. Michele put it well.

I have to take my Escort (I like mine, but in searching for an appropriate link I found this...scary!) in to have something on the ignition system fixed (I got a recall notice saying that there was the potential that the airbag would go off at random times due to moisture or something.) next week. While I am there I am going to see what they will give me for the whole darn thing. We have decided that there is really no reason for us to have two vehicles. And with gas prices up over $2.00/gallon there are lots of reasons NOT to. Although I think we will be keeping Mikey's CR-V (which also had a recall issue of some kind that is going to be dealt with on Monday), we have been tossing around the idea of selling both of them and getting some kind of hybrid car to share. Kill two birds with one stone...wait...we're doing it so we DON'T kill birds...

We did some research this afternoon on these cars...

This is the Honda Insight. Didn't find much about this one. It is the older model. Mikey doesn't like the way it looks. I think it's adorable.


This is the Civic Hybrid. We read some really good things about this car. It supposedly handles very nicely. Did you know that these cars actually turn off the engines when you are sitting at a stoplight and turn on again as soon as you take your foot off the gas? That is COOL.


This is the Toyota Prius. It is the only one with a stronger electric engine than gas engine. It seems like it is the most Earth friendly, but the reviewers were more critical of the way it handled.

Unfortunately, they all run about $20,000 (except the Prius, obviously!) and with both cars combined we are looking at making $13,000. If we are lucky! I don't think either of us is interested in more montly payments, so I think we're gonna be hanging onto the Scurvy (CR-V) for awhile.

Here's the Friday Five...

1. Do you like talking on the phone? Why or why not?
I like to talk to family on the phone. Largely because that is the only way I get to talk to family. It's better than nothing. I dislike using the phone to talk to strangers or even just acquaintances. I am sure that any time I try to call I will be interuppting something important. I am never sure how long a conversation should be. like to chat, but I hate feeling like I might be wasting someone's time.

2. Who is the last person you talked to on the phone?
I called my friend Angie to arrange our next Girl's Night Out. She IS a phone person and I trust her to tell me if she's too busy to talk. Before that I had a very nice chat with my cousin. Now she knows why I sound like such an idiot when she calls. :)

3. About how many telephones do you have at home?
One in the office, one in the bedroom, and one in the kitchen (this one is portable and has an answering machine). I also have a cell phone. For two people who dislike the phone so much we are very well stocked. This way we never have to go more than a few feet to hang up on a telemarketer. (Which we do, by the way. If there is no response immediately, we hang up. So don't call us if you just took a bite of your sandwich!)

4. Have you encountered anyone who has really bad phone manners? What happened?
The other night one of the "J"s (my Monday night babysitting charges) called. Our conversation:
*ring*
S-Hello?
J-Who is this?
*pause* (I didn't recognize the voice.)
S-That depends. Who is this?
J-I don't know.
We finally got it all straightened out. He had pushed the wrong speed-dial button. Oh, technology.

5. Would you rather pick up the phone and call someone or write them an e-mail or a letter? Why or why not?
E-mail, for sure. Actually, I would love to just write everything on this blog and know that anyone who needs to see it will do so. Then I am avoiding the evils of the telephone while also avoiding repetative typings of the same funny story. I am SSSSOOOOOOOOOOLLLLLLLazy!

The following in an excerpt from a children's book, "Captain Underpants and >the Perilous Plot of Professor Poopypants" by Dave Pilkey: The evil Professor forces everyone to assume new names.

Use the third letter of your first name to determine your new first name:
a = poopsie b = lumpy c = buttercup d = gidget e = crusty f = greasy g = fluffy h = cheeseball i = chim-chim j = stinky k = flunky l = boobie m = pinky n = zippy o = goober p = doofus q = slimy r = loopy s = snotty t = tulefel u = dorkey v = squeezit w = oprah x = skipper y = dinky z = zsa-zsa

Use the second letter of your last name to determine the first half of your new last name: a = apple b = toilet c = giggle d = burger e = girdle f = barf g = lizard h = waffle i = cootie j = monkey k = potty l = liver m = banana n = rhino o = bubble p = hamster q = toad r = gizzard s = pizza t = gerbil u = chicken v = pickle w = chuckle x = tofu y = gorilla z = stinker

Use the fourth letter of your last name to determine the second half of your new last name: a = head b = mouth c = face d = nose e = tush f = breath g = pants h = shorts i = lips j = honker k = butt l = brain m = tushie n = chunks o = hiney p = biscuits q = toes r = buns s = fanny t = sniffer u = sprinkles v = kisser w = squirt x = humperdinck y = brains z = juice

Thus, for example, George W. Bush's new name is Goober Chickenshorts.
My new name is...Boobie Bubbletushie. Mikey is...Flunkie Bubbletushie. Hehehe. We're the Bubbletushies.
One of my favorite books is "Needful Things" by Crusty Cootiepants. I like to see Zippy Gerbilsquirt on the Daily Show.

Hee hee. I could go on and on. I won't, for the sake of all your brains, but rest assured that I COULD. :)

Hee hee. I am so proud of myself. I have spent the morning learning more html coding tricks. Fun, fun, fun. My pictures, etc. are once again updated.


I love this picture of Zah and me napping on the couch.


Mikey's new berry patch. I can't wait for it to make berries!

HHHHHHAHAHHHAAAAAAAAAHAHHHHHHHHHAHAHAHHHHHAAAAA
I couldn't resist sharing this!

Joie and I came up with some questions that she can use to help her identify the perfect man in the future...

1. I am eating crackers in bed. There are crumbs in the sheets. What do you do?
2. I come home and admit that I was in a fender bender in the parking lot. What are the first words out of your mouth?
3. Do you play video games?
4. If you answered yes to the previous questions, what is the first thing you do when you are finished playing?
5. I am feeling too crampy and bitchy to go to the drug store. Will you go to the store and buy me some tampons?
6. When I get home from work you can tell that I have had a hard day. How are you going to make me feel better?
7. Our house is a mess and your mother just called to tell us that she is coming for dinner. What do you do?

Of course, we had the most fun deciding what the perfect answers would be! : ) What would YOUR perfect answers be?

I have updated my website. Nothing worth reading but I am proud of the HTML I wrote all by my self. Hooray for the Complete Idiot's Guide to Creating a Webpage! : )

Mikey has hurt his back. This morning I made a depreciating comment about my own weight and in a valient effort to prove me wrong he tried to pick me up. This evening he is stretched out on the couch alternating a cold pack and piteous moans. It is very sad. I am trying to take very good care of him since I am feeling very guilty over the whole thing. Of course, I TOLD him not to pick me up. I warned him. I did.

My garden is in! I got seedlings today and some nice dirt to add to the sandy clay that is already there. I figure if I add a little each year sometime in the 23rd century I will have healthy dirt for my plants to grow in! I have 7 tomato plants (6 different varieties), 5 different pepper plants, a cucumber and a pumpkin. I am going to be starting corn, sweet peas and watermelon from seed tomorrow. I also planted my two remaining Gerbera daisies in the ground. OOOOoohhh! And we bought 11 strawberry plants and now have a nice little strawberry patch. By the time I was done it was pretty dark, but in the morning I will break out the digital camera and post some pictures. I am quite proud of our handiwork. I am also proud of the two new blisters I have. I am afraid I am going to have trouble getting out of bed in the morning again!

So I found my missing archived posts. But stupid Blogger still won't publish them.

I am increasingly frustrated with Blogger's refusal to update my template. I'm glad I am still able to post, but...grrrr. I wish I could affort to pay for a fancy shmancy blog like some people have! Or even code well enough to create my own. I guess when it comes right down to it, the ease and price of Blogger suit my needs fairly well.

Since my muscles have returned some illusion of control to me I will be returning to my household and gardening chores today. On the list of things to do: fertilize the lawns, wash the cars, vacuum the house and run some errands. Yes, I will actually get dressed and go out in public today! I know, I know...a radical course of action, but sometimes we have to take risks!

I wish, I wish,
upon this dish
that I could swim
just like a fish.

Okay. I am going to bed now. That was just too much.

Macaroni and cheese is wonderful. I have never felt so bad that a little mac and cheese couldn't boost my spirits at least a tiny bit. : ) Thank you, you beautiful concoction of starches and dairy. Your enriched wheats enrich my life.

Hee hee. Obviously I am in need of some sleep. Or something.

This is just so very sad. So sad and so stupid. Ugh. People.

This weeks This or That questions aren't up so I am digging back into the archives...

1. Bacon or sausage? Before I would have said sausage links, but with my new less-meat (not to be confused with meat-less) diet I guess I would have to say neither. I wasn't all that crazy about either in the first place.
2. Eggs: scrambled or not? In order for me to eat an egg it has to be cooked solid. So firm scrambled eggs are wonderful but if there are any little gooey bits left I end up gagging on it. *shudder* I can't even think about it!!
3. French toast or regular toast? Regular toast with butter.
4. Pancakes or waffles? Either one as long as there is plenty of butter and maple syrup to slather on them!
5. Mufins or bagels? Hot bagels (did you know that some people eat them COLD? yech!) with plenty of cream cheese on top.
6. Coffee or tea? Coffee is nasty. Tea, please.
7. Juice: orange or grapefruit? Grape.
8. Hot or cold cereal? Cold. When hot cereal is good for you, it's boring and when you dress it up with sugar and butter and such it's no longer good for you. Besides the texture leaves something to be desired and I have never liked the image that I get when I hear "It sticks to your ribs!". : )
9. To put in cereal: bananas or strawberries (or some other fruit)? Both? And raspberries and blueberries, too! Fruit is YUM.
10. Eat breakfast at home or at a restaurant? At home. They don't cook the eggs right at restaurants!

The sun peeked over the fence and pried its way through my eyelids so that my body could tell my brain exactly how sore it really is. I hurt in places I didn't know exsisted. Apparently wielding a shovel, hoe and rake for several hours not only raises giant blisters on your hands and makes every muscle in your body hurt, but it actually creates new muscles to hurt as well. I'm all for new muscles. But I don't know if it's worth it right now! Ugh.

For some reason Blogger won't update the information in the column to the right of the posts. Grrr.

Participation Positives are a way to start each week off on the right foot. List the things you are thankful for today.

On this beautiful Monday afternoon I am thankful for...
*spring break,
*my lovely little plot of land and the garden it nurtures,
*all my gardening tools and the strength to use them,
*my shower that provides hot water whenever I need it,
*the telephone that allows me to contact those I love,
*my brother, Tyson, who has proven once again that he deserves every ounce of respect I have for him and then some,
*the ice on the windshield of the little truck with no brakes,
*my kitties who snuggle me when I nap,
*the time for naps,
*new music,
*the way the sun always manages to find at least one window to shine through,
*my in-laws and their generous donation of frequent flyer miles,
*the technology that shortens a three day trip to a 4 hour one,

and, of course...
*my wonderful Mikey, who makes every day a little brighter and every load a little lighter.

What are YOU thankful for? Leave me a comment or link.

MMMMmmmmmm...
In an effort to cook in a more animal friendly way, I am making 16 bean soup today. This is, of course, from a package that I purchased at the grocery store. I don't think I have ever owned 16 different kinds of beans at the same time. As someone funny said yesterday, "16 times the farting!" Hee hee. Sorry.

Mikey surprised me with a new cd today. It is Fallen by Evanescence. I heard their song Bring Me To Life on the DareDevil soundtrack and I commented that "I would listen to that!" So, now I am. They sound a bit like Linkin Park at times, only with a female singer. I like. : )

i am getting a disturbing number of hits searching for dirndls. Creeeeepy.

Remember those phone conversations I was supposed to be having last weekend? Today I finally got them all done. Of course, now I am already falling behind again. My life would be much easier if everyone I loved would come live here. : )

You know, despite any aggrevations, frustrations or disappointments I may suffer at the hands of my family they are still just that - MY family. I am extremely possessive of each and every person who becomes important enough to be given the title of family member. There are some who would like to think they are family just because of the circumstances they find themselves in, but they too, are wrong. There are also those who might think that although they aren't truly family they are close enough to dish out judgments as though they were, but again, they are wrong. There are even those who think they can sneak into the family without paying their dues and passing the tests. Those people have no idea what they are attempting and I pity them when they realize that I guard my family like an alpha wolf. There will be no sneaking and there will be no underhanded dealings and there will be no two-faced vipers allowed into the den. Those reptilian types who are considering just such a thing should step back and re-evaluate their situation before anything bad happens. This is MY family and although each and every one of them has their faults, I love them all more than you will ever know and I will not allow you to harm a single hair on any one of their heads. So just walk away now. Goodbye, Adios, Ciao.

Someday I am going to start my own school and it will not force students to move from one subject to another until they are ready. There will be no stigma attached to a 9 year old who is studying concepts that are typically learned by a 2nd grader as long as they are working hard and doing their best. I will not force a student who is not comfortable with the concepts of multiplication to begin division. I will return the power of learning to the learner, where it belongs. My students will be responsible for their own progress and they will love to learn. Learning will be proven through real life assessment rather than stupid standardized tests and teachers will be allowed (and expected) to use a variety of strategies and tools to present material. My school will increase the learning, the self-esteem and the humanity of my students. It will make the world a better place, one child at a time.

Someday.

Mikey and I spent an hour or so discussing our personal morals and ethics today at lunch. I am finding that the world events of the past year are really making me look deep into who I am and how I live my life. For the most part, I am very happy. I think I live a good life. There are a few areas that I am concerned with. For example, I say that killing humans is wrong in any way, shape or form. There is NO reason good enough to excuse it. But I suffer no qualms at eating a hamburger or chicken breast. Am I really okay with that? Is the line in the right spot or do I need to adjust it to be comfortable with myself and the example I am setting for my students? Obviously I could say that killing anything is wrong. But a girl has got to eat. I'm not quite ready to starve myself to save a carrot. So where do I draw the line and how do I decide? Deep thoughts to ponder over my spring break. Where is YOUR line? And what is your justification for it?

*To ease my conscience while I work through this question Mikey and I are both committing to eating less meat. We aren't cutting it out completely, but we are choosing to find more of our nutrition through plants for a while.

As for some of the other ethical questions we faced today...
*I am not going to give up my car. But I don't know if I will replace it when it finally dies. And I will ride my bike to school whenever possible.
*I am not going to stop spraying my property against ant invasions, but I will not use weed killers on my lawn. Not so much because I like weeds, but because I like the birds and the butterflies.
*I am not going to give up my dryer completely, but when I wash sheets I will hang them in the backyard.

None of this is going to single-handedly save the world, but each of these decisions will make a tiny bit of a difference to be added to the tiny bits all the other consciencious people are making. And it will make it easier for me to look my students in the eye each day. After all, they are the ones I really have to answer to.

I can understand that there are people who support Bush and his policy regarding Iraq. I can even follow the logic that states that sometimes you need to use force to stop a criminal from harming innocents. I don't agree, but I see how people get there. I do not, however, understand people who call themselves "pro-war".

From my American Heritage College Dictionary:
War (wor) n.: A state of open, armed conflict between nations, states or parties.

This is a situation where people die. Buildings are destroyed, rivers poisoned, fields burned. War involves blood and gore and death.

Why would someone think that is a good thing? Necessary, perhaps, but good? Calling yourself pro-war is a PR nightmare. Consider yourself pro-justice or pro-humanity or pro-life (in the context not related to abortion here - that is a whole different blog post), but calling yourself pro-war makes it sound like you are all fired up at the thought of death, blood, hatred and destruction. I hope that is not what you are in support of.

This was on Amy's site in a collection of plays on words. Every time I read this one I see it a different way. I love it. It made me laugh.

"Time flies like an arrow. Fruit flies like a banana."

I am just curious what a time fly looks like.

Let's wrap this week up. These questions seem particularly appropriate...

1. How often do you get sick? Are there particular times of the year when this happens? If so, when?
Not very. I am greatful for that. Of course, that means that when I do get sick I am a big baby! I can't remember the last time I had to deal with anything more than a head cold. That is pretty lucky. I usually get sick at teh beginning of the school year. Or after any major breaks in the school year. I think I build up a good tolerance to the kiddo's germs when I am with them regularly, but after time away I always catch the latest bug. And as I mentioned before, I tend to hold off on getting sick until the weekend or a holiday break. It's like my body is capable of saying "Oh no you don't!" to the germs as long as I am busy, but the minute I have spare time it just caves in. Pathetic!

2. Do you go to the doctor when you're sick? Why or why not?
No. Because when I am sick it is usually just a head cold and there isn't really anything they can tell me. The only times I see a doctor is when I need a prescription (Cough syrup with codeine is the only thing that will stop a cough on the rare occasions that I get one and my sore throats often turn into strep.) Otherwise, I take care of myself (or Mikey takes care of me) with lots of soup, tea, sleep and Tylenol. Doctors are too expensive to use unless it's absolutely necessary.

3. What comfort things and/or foods do you seek out when you're sick? Why?
Ramen Noodle Soup. Hot chamomile tea. Buttered toast. All consumed while wrapped in comfy jammies and a warm blanket on the couch with my favorite pillow, a long book, Kleenex and the remote controls all within reach.

4. Do you take medication (prescription or over-the-counter) when you're sick? Why or why not?
I will take Aleve, Tylenol, cough syrup, or other OTC meds if I really need them. I tend to avoid antibiotics unless there is a real reason for them. I use everything with caution because I don't want to develop a tolerance and be left with nothing that can help.

5. How long do you stay typically stay sick? Do you stay home or do you go out and/or work? Why or why not?
I put myself in the shoes of the people who will be spending the day with me. If I am going to pass my illness on to them or generally be more of a problem than a help, I stay home. If I am the only one who will be inconvenienced, I go to work. But like I said before, my body usually saves it up until there is no choice.

I suppose I should be greatful that my body is able to fight off illness when I am too busy to take the time for it. But it stinks that as soon as I have some free time my body recognizes it as a time to get sick. I woke up in the middle of the night last night with a nasty sore throat and my whole body is achy today. Bleh. At least I can sleep and rest as much as I need to. I will recouperate much quicker than I would if I had to get up early and deal with 3rd graders all day.

Here's the Friday Five... And even on a real Friday for a change!

1. What was the last song you heard?
The background music to Virtual Fighter 4. This is a PS2 game. I played against Mikey and royally kicked his behind. : ) And if he tries to tell you differently, he's a damn liar.

2. What were the last two movies you saw?
1. The Others with Nicole Kidman. I really dislike her, but I enjoyed the movie immensely. I won't even tell you what I liked most about it because I don't want to spoil anything. Watch it. It was very good.

2. Final Justice (It's not the one with Rock Hudson .)(Nor is it this one with Stephen Chow, whomever THAT is)(What is with all the movies by this title?). This is a "Lifetime"-type movie. You know - lousy overacting, crappy plot, bad dramatic music - the whole nine yards. I was very disappointed since I was expecting a suspense/lawyer/mystery sort of thing. Blech.

3. What were the last three things you purchased?
I bought a #2 Extra Value Meal at McD's last night and shared it with Mikey. I honestly have no idea what came before that. It was food of some kind, I'm sure. Or those file folders I bought for school. I dunno.

4. What four things do you need to do this weekend?
1. sleep in
2. laundry
3. clean the bathrooms
4. something nice for Mikey

5. Who are the last five people you talked to?
Mikey, Steve, Wendy, Tom and Annie. Aside from Mikey these are all 3rd grade teachers where I work. I spent some time chatting and socializing at the end of the day. Since I only work part time it is important for me to keep the connections between my team members strong on the days I do work.

AAAAAhhhhhhhh...Today signals the beginning of my spring break. My one and only goal is to get the pathway in my garden completely finished. HA! Oh...and if I get that done, I would also like to get some fertilizer and bring my withered lawn back to life. But first, I am going to sleep in and lounge around in bed reading. No better way to kick off a vacation if you ask me!!

I just realized that although I am getting a week and a half off, my partner is getting...a full two weeks! I am glad. She has earned it. : ) And I am pleased at the idea of actually returning to school at the same time the kids do.

Oh yeah...one last thing.

What is with the protesters who are streaking for peace? What is it about a peace rally that inspires people to get naked? I don't understand. I'm all for peace, but I think I will do it with my clothes on, thank you very much. That is all. Goodnight.

I am going to bed soon. Tomorrow is the last day of school before the spring break. I am looking forward to it. Not that I have any big plans...I just like sleeping in. I am going to get some yardwork done finally. That will be nice. Goodnight all. Peace.

Two things to say tonight...

1. My kids ROCK! The third grade classes put on a musical about the planets tonight and they did an awesome job. They sounded good, the remembered the moves to the dance and they stood nicely in between songs. I was very proud of them.

2. Linkin Park is one of my favorite bands. I just saw the video for their new song "Somewhere I Belong" and I already like the song. I can't wait to get the new album. There is such intense emotion in their songs. It gives me goosebumps, it is so overwhelming.

Human: (running around cleaning house for the arrival of the in-laws) These cabinet doors are always being left open! (Shuts door.)

2 Minutes later

Human is still putting things away. She goes to pick up a paper from near the cabinet.
Cabinet Door: Bump, bump.
Human: (confused) Hello?
Queen of the World: (looking worried and a bit put out) Meep. [This of course, translates into "You just ruined a very good nap."]
Human: I'm sorry! Here, I'll put it back the way it was.
Queen of the World: (climbing out of the cabinet) Squeak, meep. Meep, mrowrl. [translation - "I don't think I trust you! Go about your business. I will just sit right here looking insulted."]

Oops. : )

I do enjoy cooking for company. We go all out in a way that is just a waste if you are only cooking for two. This evening we will be serving BBQ ribs, cheddar mashed potatoes, salad and prairie bread. For dessert there are creme puffs with raspberry sauce and vanilla pudding. Yum.

Added a couple of pictures of the adorable nephew, Trey.

This weeks This or That questions...

1. Soup or salad? Mixed green salad with croutons, cherry tomatoes and bleu cheese dressing for me, thanks. Unless it is cold out and they have Clam Chowder (white, not red).
2. Hot or cold sandwiches? Cold. Honey turkey or bologna. If I'm feeling very adventurous I will get a cold cut trio type thing with ham, turkey and roast beef.
3. White or whole wheat bread (or rye, etc)? Whole wheat. I used to only like white bread because I wasn't allowed to have it when I was growing up. Now I like the same hearty, grainy breads that I was forced to eat as a child.
4. Pack a lunch for work/school, or buy it? Pack one. There are very few school lunches that I would be willing to pay money to eat! I usually make twice as much as we need for dinner so that I have an easy lunch for the next day.
5. If you eat out...fast-food chain, or mom & pop type place? Depends entirely on my preference at the moment. I like McD's. I also like little whole in the wall places. Time is often the deciding factor here.
6. Tuna or chicken salad? Like 'em both. And egg salad. I don't usually make any of them though.
7. Cheese: Swiss or cheddar (or American, etc)? Provelone and Mozzerella are my favorites. Then comes Swiss. Then cheddar (mild).
8. Mustard or mayo? Mustard is blechy. Slather on the mayo, please! This always reminds me of the ongoing debate we had with our dad. He said mayo would kill you. He only used those really strong, brown mustards. I thought those would kill you.
9. Sandwiches: wrap/pita pocket, or regular bread/roll? There isn't a bread in the world that I would turn away from! But what I really like is a fresh, warm loaf of French bread. I cut them in half and make the whole thing into a sub sammy. Then I cut off how much I want for each lunch. Delish!
10. Sweet stuff: cookie/cake or fresh fruit? Fresh fruit. But it is so much easier to store cookies and cakes. If given the choice I would always go for the ripe, juicy peach or pear.

I never did the Friday Five this week! Shame on me!

1. What is your favorite type of literature to read (magazine, newspaper, novels, nonfiction, poetry, etc.)?
I have to admit that my favorite things to read are murder/mystery/horror type stories. I like the action and the suspense and the way things always turn out alright in the end. The bad guy is caught, the good guy is a hero and the girl always gets the guy. Often they revolve around the workings of the human mind, something I am very intrigued by. However, I have been known to read cereal boxes and shampoo bottles if that is all that is around. I am not picky. I read romance, sci-fi, historical fiction, classics, etc. I haven't read a western in a long time, but I read bunches of them in high school. I'll read anything.

2. What is your favorite novel?
I don't think I have a favorite. How can I pick from all the ones I like? I would recommend
anything by Richard Bach (thoughtful)
just about anything by Stephen King (scary/horror)
The Princess Bride by William Goldman (humorous)
anything by Barbara Kingsolver or Amy Tan (drama)
The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood (scary/sci-fi)
Oh...there are so many...Fahrenheit 451 (Bradbury), 1984 (Orwell), Ender's Game (Scott Card)...Read them all!

3. Do you have a favorite poem? (Share it!)
I mentioned before (on Feb. 4)...I really like the poem from that Tahoe commercial. (I would link to it, but my blog seems to have stopped archiving itself. Stupid blog.) I am also very fond of anything I have ever read by Robert Frost. I like poems that are rooted in nature and reality. I can't handle poetry that is all deep and condescending. My mind glazes over.

4. What is one thing you've always wanted to read, or wish you had more time to read?
I want to read everything. And I wish I had the time to do so.

5. What are you currently reading?
The CA state education standards. Gotta get ready for the next trimester! : )

Participation Positives are a way to start each week off on the right foot. List the things you are thankful for today.

I am thankful for...
*my friend Angie, who doesn't let my crappy phone/social skills get in the way of our friendship.
*my wonderful family, the solid base upon which I am building my dreams.
*my job and the joys, the friends, the experience that have come with it.
*my cell phone because it allows me to make free long distance calls all weekend long.
*my newly revamped computer that only rarely throws temper tantrums now.
*the rain that came down for weeks and made the trees and flowers happy.
*the sun that is now shining and making me happy.
*each and every one of my 3rd graders, even (especially) the ones that drive me crazy.
* everyone who has had a hand in making me who I am today.
and, of course...
*my wonderful Mikey, who makes every day a little brighter and every load a little lighter.

What are YOU thankful for? Leave me a comment or link.

You know one of those phone calls I was supposed to make? Well, she called me and we got together for lunch today. : ) That means I have...2 to go. Progress!

And then, as if real life violence isn't enough, I had nasty dream. My sweet, adorable, little grey kitty got hurt. When I tried to pick her up she got very upset with me and started biting and clawing me. Really hard. I was suddenly much more concerned about getting her sharp parts out of my fingers. When I finally pried her jaws open to extract my thumb she jumped down and ran off like there was nothing wrong with her leg. I immediately went to scrub my injuries with hot, soapy water in an attempt to stave off the inevitable infections.

Having that dream was scary. I could FEEL the bite marks and even after I woke up my thumbs were throbbing. But the creepiest part was how I woke up. Something tickled me and when I opened my eyes, there was my grey kitty nose to nose with me. I will admit that my first reaction was a startled twitch. Then I let her under the covers and we both went back to sleep. (She just jumped up and snuggled onto my lap. She is SO cute.!!)



OOH! And I just remembered that in another dream I had this morning I got to be a bartender like the ones in Coyote Ugly. Whoo Hoo. : )

Last night at about 9 pm, I heard a little girl screaming hysterically outside. There was an angry adult voice and then nothing.

This morning at 3:30 am, I awoke to the incomprehensible chatter of multiple loud voices and a single voice shouting over them. "Get the f**k out! Just get the f**k out!" The chatter died down and cars drove off. An eerie silence hung in the air.

I have no idea what kind of people live on the other side of our backyard fence, but I do know that if it ever reaches the point that I can't stand their noise anymore I am going to call the police. There is NO WAY I am going to expose myself to the kind of violence I hear over there from time to time. My heart breaks for the kid(s) that live(s) there. No one should have to grow up in that kind of environment. It's ugly to listen to. I was frightened by being woken up that way. Imagine being the child who is trying to sleep in the same house. Ugh. Some people should NOT be allowed to have children.

Three calls down. Um...1, 2, 3...no, 4 to go. Yikes.

UPDATE: 1 of the people I meant to call got to me first! I had a fabulously long chat with my darling sister. : ) It was great.

Friday at lunch I was called into the principal's office. The district is sending out its pink slip notices. Legally, they have to warn anyone who may not have a job about the situation by March 15th. Being that I am level "Probationary Zero" (I don't even get credit for the 1/2 of the year that I am working) I am one of the first on the chopping block if worst comes to worst. Mr. O. read from his little script, I signed on the proper line and received my packet of information about my rights and all. Lots of fun. I don't envy Mr. O. his job right now.

I am not worrying yet. I keep reminding myself that they HAVE to do this if there is ANY chance that my job could be cut. All of the numbers I have been hearing point to actually having to hire teachers next year despite the budget crunch. This area is growing so quickly that even with re-distributing special service teachers (reading specialists, etc.) there will still be jobs available for us P0 teachers, plus some. I am even being told that the chances are good that I will be able to stay at Jackson. I am actually more upset at the thought of having to start fresh at a new school than I am at the thought of losing my job. I like it here. I like my team.

So, I am keeping my fingers crossed that everything will work out for the best. Even if I don't have a contract for next year, I can always go back to subbing if I need to. Mikey and I can manage on that. I don't WANT to sub anymore, but we would be just fine if I had to. For now, I will just let things flow and not worry about them. What will be, will be. Que Sera, Sera.

I thought about calling people today. I never did get around to it. Some I didn't really have anything interesting to say. Some I am wishing would call me. Others I am just plain nervous to talk to. So instead of having any of the conversations I wanted to have with my family and friends, I sat on the computer. I controlled the lives of imaginary people and read about the lives of strangers. Such is the age of technology. I will make those calls tomorrow.

ASIDE: Wow. I am seriously having a crisis of ideas here. Let me explain.

IDEA #1
You know that I think killing people is WRONG. In any way, shape or form, it is wrong to take the life of another human. I have said before that there are no good reasons, no acceptable excuses, no justifications, for inflicting death on someone. I stand by that. People must be treated with respect and decency - no matter their age, race, religion or belief - and I try to live my life with that as the number one rule. (I don't always manage it, but I try.)

IDEA #2
The men and women who are in our military forces are to be respected for being willing to give their lives to protect something they hold dear. When they face the enemy they do it knowing there is the possibility that they are doing it for the last time. I respect that.

Okay. Here's where the crisis comes in. These men and women are also willing to kill to protect something they hold dear. As I stated previously, I think that is wrong. It is exactly opposite of what I think needs to happen. So...if I respect and support the soldiers in what they are doing, I am being a hypocrite. If I refuse to respect and support the soldiers for what they are doing, I am also a hypocrite. It is quite a quandry.

MY CURRENT IDEA (because ideas are easy to change, beliefs are not - 10 points to the one who knows where that is from)
I have to make a conscious effort to remember that what soldiers are doing can be divided into these two different actions. The willingness to suffer for your ideas and the willingness to kill for your ideas are two seperate decisions. I fully support the one and completely oppose the other. That being decided, I will go on to tell you about what this post was originally about.

There is a website up, TROOPTRAX, that is dedicated to collecting donations of money or music in an effort to send our troops some tunes. Michele (a small victory) is organizing the whole thing. If you are interested in supporting our troops and their need for entertainment - even if you only support 1/2 of what they are doing - jump on over and let them know. The important is that members of the military THINK they are doing a good thing. Good intentions and all. That in itself should be respected.

You can't teach a child about light by keeping them in the dark.

Sometimes when you live like I do - avoiding news on basic principle - you miss important things. Thursday marked the passing of a truly great man and I didn't find out until Friday night. Mr. Rogers, PBS icon for 30 years, died Thursday of cancer at the age of 74. In an age when everything is bright and fast and hip, Mr. Rogers stood his ground, refusing to rely on marketing ploys or flashy gimmicks. Children came to his neighborhood because it was a safe, calm, friendly place where they felt important. Mr. Rogers believed in consistency, honesty and empathy when dealing with children. He encouraged using the imagination, asking questions and acceptance of others. There is no show out there that can possibly fill the sneakers and cardigan of Mr. Fred Rogers and his wonderful neighborhood.