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.
Tuesday, February 11, 2003
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!
Wow, it's been awhile. I missed posting. I have been thinking about y'all despite my absence. I even managed to write some things down on actual paper so that I would remember to share them with you. Yes, I care THAT much. No need to thank me. Just send cash and chocolate.
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.
It says something about my state of mind this week that I saw this label:
CAUTION: Contents under pressure. Keep out of reach of children.
and thought about making a button to wear.
CAUTION: Contents under pressure. Keep out of reach of children.
and thought about making a button to wear.
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.
good grief. my class is driving me crazy. they are a little worked up over the field trip tomorrow. i just hope that they all behave themselves.
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.
I had a whole diatribe on Valentine's Day all ready to publish when the power went out. I lost it and the MSN conversation that it was based on. Bleh. It's my own fault though. The power company warned us that we would be losing power. I just forgot. I will rewrite it at some point.
I got SIMS Unleashed yesterday and spent the whole afternoon and evening trying to figure it out. The little kitties and puppies are SO cute!!! :)
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?
I stayed up until 11:00 last night playing SIMS. Then I slept until about 8:30 when my sweetie served me breakfast in bed, after which I slept again until nearly 10:00. I am a lazy, lazy girl. It was fun.
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. "
Thursday, January 30, 2003
I woke up last night from a dream so horrible that even after I was awake I burst into tears. Mikey had to wake me up because I was whimpering. I have never had a dream that made me feel so awful. I dreamed that my mom told me that she was too busy with her new boyfriend to talk to me anymore. She very casually told me that she would see me "some other time, maybe". I was so sad. I was so hurt. I was destroyed. It was awful. I never want to have that dream again. EVER.
Tuesday, January 28, 2003
Is it spring yet?
This is one of the trees near our house. It's as confused as I am by this crazy weather.
I added this and a couple other pics to my photo page.
This is one of the trees near our house. It's as confused as I am by this crazy weather.
I added this and a couple other pics to my photo page.
Final Destination is the dumbest movie ever. Bleh.
1. Art imitates life??
In the beginning there is the geeky, weird girl. She has mousy hair, drab clothes and her behavior and mannerisms are very unusual. As the movie progresses, she becomes subtley prettier with each passing scene. She starts to wear more makeup, her hair is shiny and pulled back and she wears lots of tight shirts. Because no one wants to get attached to a heroine who is less than perfect looking. I dislike the way movies undermine the average person in this way.
2. Unfortunate choice of words...
There is a scene in which one of the characters has the top of his head cut off with a flying piece of metal. Less than a minute later the girl says (to another guy), "You can stay at my father's cabin in the woods until you get your head together." Youch.
3. The Countdown
There is a Death Clock on the DVD. It says that Mikey and I will both die on Dec. 31, 2022 at 11:50 pm. You heard it here first!
Forgive me if I seem to be a little flippant about death. However, as the movie points out - death is all around us. There are a zillion ways you could die at any given moment. All that is required is the exact set of circumstances. And as the movie also points out - there is no way to control it. You can't cheat death. So I choose to stop worrying about it and enjoy the time I do have. Whoo hoo. : ) Anyone wanna go see Final Destination 2??
1. Art imitates life??
In the beginning there is the geeky, weird girl. She has mousy hair, drab clothes and her behavior and mannerisms are very unusual. As the movie progresses, she becomes subtley prettier with each passing scene. She starts to wear more makeup, her hair is shiny and pulled back and she wears lots of tight shirts. Because no one wants to get attached to a heroine who is less than perfect looking. I dislike the way movies undermine the average person in this way.
2. Unfortunate choice of words...
There is a scene in which one of the characters has the top of his head cut off with a flying piece of metal. Less than a minute later the girl says (to another guy), "You can stay at my father's cabin in the woods until you get your head together." Youch.
3. The Countdown
There is a Death Clock on the DVD. It says that Mikey and I will both die on Dec. 31, 2022 at 11:50 pm. You heard it here first!
Forgive me if I seem to be a little flippant about death. However, as the movie points out - death is all around us. There are a zillion ways you could die at any given moment. All that is required is the exact set of circumstances. And as the movie also points out - there is no way to control it. You can't cheat death. So I choose to stop worrying about it and enjoy the time I do have. Whoo hoo. : ) Anyone wanna go see Final Destination 2??
My aunt has Down's Syndrome and paranoid schizophrenia. She has lived with my grandma for years. The two of them alternately take care of each other and drive each other crazy. Today my aunt is moving into a group home. Not because there is an immediate need, but because we don't know how much longer Grandma will be able to live independently. Patsy needed to be settled in a comfortable, safe environment before the inevitable happened. In the past few weeks, men have been packing her things and moving her furniture. She is excited.
Grandma, on the other hand, is scared. Despite her knowledge that this is the best for Patsy and her protests that she will be just fine, she knows that this is the beginning of the end. Without the presence of another person, she may soon succumb to her fears and her confusion. She may lose the last bit of independence she has - her little house by the park.
My grandma will be 84 this July. She was the first Caucasian child to be born in a tiny town in Alaska. An only child, she grew up fiercely independent. In an era when women became housewives and mothers as soon as possible, she didn't marry until her mid 30's and didn't have her first child until her early 40's. She moved from place to place, following Grandpa's government job, for years. She made friends with her natural gift for conversation. She made enemies with her willingness to stand up and vigerously fight what she perceived as wrongs.
One of the things she fought for most vigerously was rights and benefits for people with disabilities. As a child, I was always impressed by the wall of plaques and awards that she had aquired through her various projects and committees. She listened to the doctor tell her that her oldest daughter should be sent away because of her extra 21st chromosome and realized that he was a fool. Because of her strength, my aunt has been able to experience friendship and love. She has had a job and her own apartment. All because Grandma looked the doctor in the eye and recognized his expertise for what it really was - fear and ignorance. She was so strong.
As I write this, I have tears on my cheeks. When I was younger I always knew that I would be the one to help Grandma when she got older. I had it all planned out. I would finish college and move back to my hometown. Eventually, Grandma would need someone to stay with her and that someone would obviously be me. I would teach during the day and in the evenings Grandma and I would make dinner together and talk about the things she had seen and learned throughout her lifetime. I would be there to make sure she didn't lose her independence.
Of course, nothing went as planned. Instead of moving back home, I headed to California. Instead of being the spinster teacher I imagined, I got married. When it became obvious that she was ready for my help...I couldn't give it to her. Although I know that she never expected me to follow through on these plans (I don't think she ever even knew about them) I still feel as though I have let her down somehow.
Grandma was there when I was born. We formed a bond in those first few days, as she held me close and welcomed me to the world, that has never faltered. She has cheered me on through high school, college, job hunts and wedding plans. She bought me my first car (starting a tradition, whether that was her plan or not!), "loaned" me money when I needed it and taught me to harness my inner strength.
These days I talk to her every Sunday at noon. We don't talk about anything exciting - usually the family and her health and her cat, Spike. But that isn't why I call. I call because I don't know how many Sundays she has left. I call because I want to be there for her the way she was there for me. I call because she's Grandma and I love her. What more reason could I possibly need?
Grandma, on the other hand, is scared. Despite her knowledge that this is the best for Patsy and her protests that she will be just fine, she knows that this is the beginning of the end. Without the presence of another person, she may soon succumb to her fears and her confusion. She may lose the last bit of independence she has - her little house by the park.
My grandma will be 84 this July. She was the first Caucasian child to be born in a tiny town in Alaska. An only child, she grew up fiercely independent. In an era when women became housewives and mothers as soon as possible, she didn't marry until her mid 30's and didn't have her first child until her early 40's. She moved from place to place, following Grandpa's government job, for years. She made friends with her natural gift for conversation. She made enemies with her willingness to stand up and vigerously fight what she perceived as wrongs.
One of the things she fought for most vigerously was rights and benefits for people with disabilities. As a child, I was always impressed by the wall of plaques and awards that she had aquired through her various projects and committees. She listened to the doctor tell her that her oldest daughter should be sent away because of her extra 21st chromosome and realized that he was a fool. Because of her strength, my aunt has been able to experience friendship and love. She has had a job and her own apartment. All because Grandma looked the doctor in the eye and recognized his expertise for what it really was - fear and ignorance. She was so strong.
As I write this, I have tears on my cheeks. When I was younger I always knew that I would be the one to help Grandma when she got older. I had it all planned out. I would finish college and move back to my hometown. Eventually, Grandma would need someone to stay with her and that someone would obviously be me. I would teach during the day and in the evenings Grandma and I would make dinner together and talk about the things she had seen and learned throughout her lifetime. I would be there to make sure she didn't lose her independence.
Of course, nothing went as planned. Instead of moving back home, I headed to California. Instead of being the spinster teacher I imagined, I got married. When it became obvious that she was ready for my help...I couldn't give it to her. Although I know that she never expected me to follow through on these plans (I don't think she ever even knew about them) I still feel as though I have let her down somehow.
Grandma was there when I was born. We formed a bond in those first few days, as she held me close and welcomed me to the world, that has never faltered. She has cheered me on through high school, college, job hunts and wedding plans. She bought me my first car (starting a tradition, whether that was her plan or not!), "loaned" me money when I needed it and taught me to harness my inner strength.
These days I talk to her every Sunday at noon. We don't talk about anything exciting - usually the family and her health and her cat, Spike. But that isn't why I call. I call because I don't know how many Sundays she has left. I call because I want to be there for her the way she was there for me. I call because she's Grandma and I love her. What more reason could I possibly need?
You know all those projections about who was going to win the Super Bowl? Well, here's one about "Gulf War 2".
Mikey has finally been convinced to see a doctor regarding his stomach problems. : ) I will rest easier after hearing what the professional has to say.
Last night the boys ("J1" and "J2") and I finished reading "My Side of the Mountain". For the last couple months I would read a chapter or so after they were tucked into bed. Last night we were so eager to finish the book that I started reading at 8:30 and didn't stop until it was all done, around 10:00. It really pleases me that they are that interested in a written story. Instead of playing Nintendo ("J2" literally chose the story over Donkey Kong!) or watching a stupid movie, they were lying in the dark imagining the life of Sam Gribley of the Catskill Mountains. They were picturing the forest that he lived in, imagining the snow storms, hearing the birds and the wind. They were thinking! And they didn't even realize it. I love it. Next week we are starting "Ender's Game" by Orson Scott Card. If you haven't read it and you are interested in child psychology, science fiction, aliens, politics, the peace/war debate, or even just sibling rivalry...this is the book for you! The "J1" has already read it on my suggestion and liked it so much that he wants to hear it again right away. Good, good, good.
***Don't read the first review of "Ender's Game" unless you want a spoiler for the story.***
***Don't read the first review of "Ender's Game" unless you want a spoiler for the story.***
Monday, January 27, 2003
There are a plethora of trashy shows out there and we seem to be catching tidbits of each of them!! Joe Millionaire. The Last Resort. My Life is a Sitcom. The Bachelorette. Interestingly enough, they seems to gravitate to ABC Family. I can't think of a channel that I would be less likely to let my children watch! Okay...maybe I can. But this is right up there!
Sunday, January 26, 2003
Whoa! Interested in an optical illusion? Go to this page and scroll down to the picture of the cube. Scroll up and down over it and see what happens. Cool! : )
Having still not learned my lesson, I am once again futzing around with the html to my blog. Bwahahahaha...
Saturday, January 25, 2003
If you believe in Christianity and lack a sense of humor about it, just skip right over this link. I found this quite amusing and not at all offensive...but some people just can't take a joke. You decide.
What would Jesus think of his life chronicled in art? Find out here.
What would Jesus think of his life chronicled in art? Find out here.
WARNING - the following is an unpaid advertisement.
Looking for a long distance phone company that actually has some redeeming qualities? Check out Working Assets. Not only do they provide good service and keep you informed on current political issues, but they also give you a pint of free Ben and Jerry's ice cream for the first 6 months you are with them. Each year you get to vote on where their donations go, also. My favorite thing was that they sent me a form I could fill out to get less junk mail and fewer telemarketing calls. And it has actually worked!! It is all around a great company. Look into it.
Looking for a long distance phone company that actually has some redeeming qualities? Check out Working Assets. Not only do they provide good service and keep you informed on current political issues, but they also give you a pint of free Ben and Jerry's ice cream for the first 6 months you are with them. Each year you get to vote on where their donations go, also. My favorite thing was that they sent me a form I could fill out to get less junk mail and fewer telemarketing calls. And it has actually worked!! It is all around a great company. Look into it.
I saw a funny ad on The Chappelle Show about a stenographer for your house. I like that idea. I want a stenographer here recording everything that is said so that when I want to post about it, I can just have him/her read it back to me. There was a very amusing conversation that occured this morning before rising that would have been hilarious here. But I can't even begin to remember what was so funny about it now. Damn that stenographer.
I had the strangest dream. Then Mikey interpreted it for me and it made so much more sense. The groundhog fetching the beer for the guy was actually reality television presenting environmental issues to the average viewer. Of course, the groundhog doesn't WANT to fetch the beer, so it had to be forced into it by the ferocious alligator. The alligator is employment, more specifically - MY employment. Education. I don't want the groundhog near me, but I do want it to bring a beer to the guy. And the alligator gets that done. And of course, the cameo of the twins from my high school represented a transition. Because something ALWAYS represents a transition.
Or something like that. Dreams are wierd.
Or something like that. Dreams are wierd.
Friday, January 24, 2003
Michele over at a small victory wrote this. I found it amusing. Just goes to show that EVERYONE has something to apologize for!!
"As an American in good standing (I think), I will take it upon myself to apologize for certain slights against good taste and offenses against the delicate nature of certain countries, but you have to apologize as well. Tit for tat, as they say in some other country where the word tit does not elicit giggles, even from adults who know better.
I'll trade you one apology for McDonald's Filet-o-Fish in exchange for a mea culpa over haggis or steak tartare. Ok, ok. I'm sorry about Spam. And White Castle burgers. And Jello salads and Jello molds in particular. Take back your head cheese, Sweden!"
Read more...
"As an American in good standing (I think), I will take it upon myself to apologize for certain slights against good taste and offenses against the delicate nature of certain countries, but you have to apologize as well. Tit for tat, as they say in some other country where the word tit does not elicit giggles, even from adults who know better.
I'll trade you one apology for McDonald's Filet-o-Fish in exchange for a mea culpa over haggis or steak tartare. Ok, ok. I'm sorry about Spam. And White Castle burgers. And Jello salads and Jello molds in particular. Take back your head cheese, Sweden!"
Read more...
This week's Friday Five...
1. What is one thing you don't like about your body?
(I could go with the usual "my tummy isn't as flat as I would like" speech, but since that is MY OWN DAMN FAULT, I thought I would go another route.)
I am not crazy about my nose. When I was in high school someone made a very innocent comment about it's size and I have never looked at it the same since. It's not that I hate it. It's just that I always wonder...if that one person thought it was less than perfect, what is everyone else thinking?
2. What are two things you love about your body?
I really like my hair. If I were to admit to being vain about anything, that would be it. People have always told me how nice it was and it's kind of gone to my head! : )
I also like my feet. I think they are cute. Not in a fetish sort of way, but I am not ashamed to walk around barefoot, showing off my piggy toes to the world.
3. What are three things you want to change about your home?
This is easy. First, I would add ceiling fans in the bedroom and dining room. Then, I would add some built in bookshelves in several of the rooms. And finally, I would magically find extra space to add onto my kitchen. (This is really my first wish, but since it is really not possible in this realm of reality, I left it for last.)
4. What are four books you want to read this year?
The next Dark Tower book by Stephen King. (If I could read the whole rest of the series, I would be in heaven!)
.....
Wow. This is hard. I honestly don't know. I will think on it.
5. What are five promises you have kept to yourself?
I promised that I would lose weight for my wedding. I did. (And mostly kept it off, even!)
I promised that I would let my parents deal with their own issues. I am. (Mostly.)
I promised that I would be a teacher. I am.
I promised that I would some day get over the failed long-term relationship. I did.
I promised to do something just for me that I have always been interested in. I am. (Tai Chi)
1. What is one thing you don't like about your body?
(I could go with the usual "my tummy isn't as flat as I would like" speech, but since that is MY OWN DAMN FAULT, I thought I would go another route.)
I am not crazy about my nose. When I was in high school someone made a very innocent comment about it's size and I have never looked at it the same since. It's not that I hate it. It's just that I always wonder...if that one person thought it was less than perfect, what is everyone else thinking?
2. What are two things you love about your body?
I really like my hair. If I were to admit to being vain about anything, that would be it. People have always told me how nice it was and it's kind of gone to my head! : )
I also like my feet. I think they are cute. Not in a fetish sort of way, but I am not ashamed to walk around barefoot, showing off my piggy toes to the world.
3. What are three things you want to change about your home?
This is easy. First, I would add ceiling fans in the bedroom and dining room. Then, I would add some built in bookshelves in several of the rooms. And finally, I would magically find extra space to add onto my kitchen. (This is really my first wish, but since it is really not possible in this realm of reality, I left it for last.)
4. What are four books you want to read this year?
The next Dark Tower book by Stephen King. (If I could read the whole rest of the series, I would be in heaven!)
.....
Wow. This is hard. I honestly don't know. I will think on it.
5. What are five promises you have kept to yourself?
I promised that I would lose weight for my wedding. I did. (And mostly kept it off, even!)
I promised that I would let my parents deal with their own issues. I am. (Mostly.)
I promised that I would be a teacher. I am.
I promised that I would some day get over the failed long-term relationship. I did.
I promised to do something just for me that I have always been interested in. I am. (Tai Chi)
Aaaahhh. Another day done. Another week done. Life it good.
With some trepidation, I submitted my site to The Weblog Review not too long ago. I was interested in knowing how I rated compared to other sites out there. I am not sure why I care, other than the natural human tendency to compare and judge. It was all in fun, but I have to admit that seeing the review notice in my in-box made my stomach do that nervous, little clench it does.
The review was very average. It was positive in a reserved sort of way. The only problem I have with it is that the reviewer consistently referred to me as "he". I wonder how many posts said reviewer actually read. Otherwise I am comforted with the thought that I wasn't found disgusting and horrifying. : )
[Wow! Color ME impressed! Within a few hours of this post someone checked back, noticed my comments, and fixed the mistake. Thanks, Brent, whomever you may be!]
With some trepidation, I submitted my site to The Weblog Review not too long ago. I was interested in knowing how I rated compared to other sites out there. I am not sure why I care, other than the natural human tendency to compare and judge. It was all in fun, but I have to admit that seeing the review notice in my in-box made my stomach do that nervous, little clench it does.
The review was very average. It was positive in a reserved sort of way. The only problem I have with it is that the reviewer consistently referred to me as "he". I wonder how many posts said reviewer actually read. Otherwise I am comforted with the thought that I wasn't found disgusting and horrifying. : )
[Wow! Color ME impressed! Within a few hours of this post someone checked back, noticed my comments, and fixed the mistake. Thanks, Brent, whomever you may be!]
Wednesday, January 22, 2003
The lawsuit against McDonald's alleging that the company should be held responsible for the health of it's consumers has been thrown out of court. There IS some sense buried somewhere in the Justice system. What gets me is that the father of the plantiffs wants us to believe that he thought McDonald's food was GOOD for his children. He never saw anything in the restaurant that stated otherwise. Apparently, his family lives in a cave where they get no TV or radio reception and never come across a stray newspaper or magazine article.
Tuesday, January 21, 2003
My pal, Zander is doing a project for his History class. He is looking into the idea that people are more vocal about their ideas when they think things are going to happen that oppose them. What he needs YOU to do is head on over and choose a poll to vote in. You must choose ONE POLL, not one answer in each poll, so think carefully. Go. Vote. And then tell your friends. : ) I am very interested in seeing the results.
Wow! So much to say! I have had an outing and a series of experiences to share! Hooray!
First, I have come to the conclusion that my house is haunted. I can think of no other explaination for the eternal cold. Even when it is 80+ degrees outside, I need to wear my slippers and a sweater in the house. Must be spirits floating around, wafting s with netherworldly breezes. What else could it possibly be??
Next, we saw a wonderful gaggle of little old ladies coming out of a restaurant as we drove to lunch. They were all wearing purple clothing and bright red hats. They were having a super time. "When I am an old lady I shall wear purple..."
We had a very yummy lunch at On The Border that was spoiled only by the double charge for a Sprite and the inattentiveness of the waitress. We finally left without fixing it because we were tired of waiting for someone to wander past our table. Bleh. I am amazed at the complete lack of customer service that seems to be the current norm. Or maybe I am just having a string of bad luck. But it seems that Companies are more interested in saving money than they are in repeat business these days. Bleh.
Speaking of customer service...I actually had a GOOD experience while comparison shopping for a usable cell phone. We stopped by several providers in town (deciding that dealing with them face to face would be better than risking another failure like the Sprint debacle) and at the AT&T place we were greeted and assisted by a very nice guy named Alex. He answered my questions without making me feel like the technologically disabled person that I am, he took my concerns seriously and best of all, he DIDN'T pressure me at all. We ended up going back there for our final purchase. I was happy to help him earn his commission.
(On a side note...I was very disturbed by the sales pitch from the Verizon lady which was very much aimed at the "I-want-to-talk-and-drive-at-the-same-time" crowd. She actually told me that the voice activated web thingy was great because you could get the latest news and such without "taking your eyes off the road". Isn't that what a RADIO is for?? I wasn't impressed. But I refrained from lecturing her on the evils of talking and driving. I just reminded myself that I would never, ever, ever use my phone in a car that wasn't in park unless someone else was driving. EVER. )
That leads to the final excitement of the day...our NEW cell phone is charging up as we speak. It doesn't have the pretty color screen that the fancy one had, but it DOES allow me to make phone calls. And despite what all the commercials try to tell you, that is what a cell phone is all about. : ) If you are someone who we might want to talk to we will be getting you our new phone number as soon as we have proof that we will be using it!
First, I have come to the conclusion that my house is haunted. I can think of no other explaination for the eternal cold. Even when it is 80+ degrees outside, I need to wear my slippers and a sweater in the house. Must be spirits floating around, wafting s with netherworldly breezes. What else could it possibly be??
Next, we saw a wonderful gaggle of little old ladies coming out of a restaurant as we drove to lunch. They were all wearing purple clothing and bright red hats. They were having a super time. "When I am an old lady I shall wear purple..."
We had a very yummy lunch at On The Border that was spoiled only by the double charge for a Sprite and the inattentiveness of the waitress. We finally left without fixing it because we were tired of waiting for someone to wander past our table. Bleh. I am amazed at the complete lack of customer service that seems to be the current norm. Or maybe I am just having a string of bad luck. But it seems that Companies are more interested in saving money than they are in repeat business these days. Bleh.
Speaking of customer service...I actually had a GOOD experience while comparison shopping for a usable cell phone. We stopped by several providers in town (deciding that dealing with them face to face would be better than risking another failure like the Sprint debacle) and at the AT&T place we were greeted and assisted by a very nice guy named Alex. He answered my questions without making me feel like the technologically disabled person that I am, he took my concerns seriously and best of all, he DIDN'T pressure me at all. We ended up going back there for our final purchase. I was happy to help him earn his commission.
(On a side note...I was very disturbed by the sales pitch from the Verizon lady which was very much aimed at the "I-want-to-talk-and-drive-at-the-same-time" crowd. She actually told me that the voice activated web thingy was great because you could get the latest news and such without "taking your eyes off the road". Isn't that what a RADIO is for?? I wasn't impressed. But I refrained from lecturing her on the evils of talking and driving. I just reminded myself that I would never, ever, ever use my phone in a car that wasn't in park unless someone else was driving. EVER. )
That leads to the final excitement of the day...our NEW cell phone is charging up as we speak. It doesn't have the pretty color screen that the fancy one had, but it DOES allow me to make phone calls. And despite what all the commercials try to tell you, that is what a cell phone is all about. : ) If you are someone who we might want to talk to we will be getting you our new phone number as soon as we have proof that we will be using it!
Monday, January 20, 2003
How to write a paragraph
I am teaching my 3rd graders paragraph writing soon. This will be our model. It was fun to make!
I am teaching my 3rd graders paragraph writing soon. This will be our model. It was fun to make!
It's a small world...
I have visitors (well, one visitor each) from
Japan,
Canada,
Sweden,
Brazil,
Austria, and
South Africa.
Fun! :)
I have visitors (well, one visitor each) from
Japan,
Canada,
Sweden,
Brazil,
Austria, and
South Africa.
Fun! :)
I am adding to my musical repertoire...
Left it up to me - Indigo Girls
Teach your children - Crosby, Stills, Nash
Thank You - DIDO
Souvenirs - John Prine
The Circle Game - Buffy St. Marie
None of them are good yet, but they are fun to practice. :)
Left it up to me - Indigo Girls
Teach your children - Crosby, Stills, Nash
Thank You - DIDO
Souvenirs - John Prine
The Circle Game - Buffy St. Marie
None of them are good yet, but they are fun to practice. :)
(*#$^!@^$#$^(!@&*$%(%&*(@$^*^%
Forget joining the 21st century. I am slinking back into the dark ages with my tail between my legs, having been thoroughly whupped by the age of technology.
After 4 different phone calls someone at SPRINT finally felt it pertinent to tell me that I don't live in a non-roaming range for my new cell phone. This, after I was assured that they have nationwide coverage and that you have to be somewhere in the middle of Alaska or Montana to leave the digital area and enter the roaming area. I live in a city with a population of 72,700. NOT the middle of Alaska.
And when I said that I would be cancelling my contract because of that, the woman actually asked me, "Do you know anyone who would like to take over the contract for you?". Sure. Cause I am SO HAPPY with your service that I would INFLICT it on my friends. I'd like to keep my friends, thank you very much.
To hell with SPRINT and to hell with the 21st century.
Forget joining the 21st century. I am slinking back into the dark ages with my tail between my legs, having been thoroughly whupped by the age of technology.
After 4 different phone calls someone at SPRINT finally felt it pertinent to tell me that I don't live in a non-roaming range for my new cell phone. This, after I was assured that they have nationwide coverage and that you have to be somewhere in the middle of Alaska or Montana to leave the digital area and enter the roaming area. I live in a city with a population of 72,700. NOT the middle of Alaska.
And when I said that I would be cancelling my contract because of that, the woman actually asked me, "Do you know anyone who would like to take over the contract for you?". Sure. Cause I am SO HAPPY with your service that I would INFLICT it on my friends. I'd like to keep my friends, thank you very much.
To hell with SPRINT and to hell with the 21st century.
Sunday, January 19, 2003
Hee Hee...Just when you think you know a guy...
So I came across mention of NCC-1701. Not being a geek, I was confused. I asked aloud "What the heck does NCC-1701 mean?" Guess who was not only able to answer, but also explained what NCC-1701D was? I had NO idea. : ) So, how many of YOU know what it means?
So I came across mention of NCC-1701. Not being a geek, I was confused. I asked aloud "What the heck does NCC-1701 mean?" Guess who was not only able to answer, but also explained what NCC-1701D was? I had NO idea. : ) So, how many of YOU know what it means?
So now we have a new TV. It is silver and roughly the same size as before. We were limited by the size of our entertainment center. Probably a good thing, cause there are some HUGE screens out there! We stuck to the basics and didn't go crazy. At least not with the TV. While we were in Circuit City we looked at the cell phone stuff. Been talking about it for ages and finally decided that the way to go is get a cell phone for our personal use and use the in house line as a business line. It's just cheaper. Ugh. I always swore I wouldn't get one, but the stupid little thing is over there charging up as I type. It's kinda cute. : )
Happy Sunday to you. I have always liked Sunday mornings for their lazy, easy going feel. (Sunday evenings are another matter, but why worry about them now?!) Today has been a good one. Finishing up chores, practicing on Isha (I am noticing real improvement in my chord transitions!), thinking about meals for the week, talking to Grandma. All little putzy things that make me feel comfy in my little home. I like it.
This afternoon is one of errands. The big one is going out to replace the ancient tv that Mikey has had for several years and that his Grandma had forever before that. There is something wrong with it's insides. Everything is mooshed up in the middle of the screen like it has been letterboxed. Makes it hard to watch shows and enev harder to play video games! We were managing to smack it into submission for the last few days, but this morning it made a loud popping noise and convinced us that we should just get a new one.
This afternoon is one of errands. The big one is going out to replace the ancient tv that Mikey has had for several years and that his Grandma had forever before that. There is something wrong with it's insides. Everything is mooshed up in the middle of the screen like it has been letterboxed. Makes it hard to watch shows and enev harder to play video games! We were managing to smack it into submission for the last few days, but this morning it made a loud popping noise and convinced us that we should just get a new one.
Saturday, January 18, 2003
this is more like it!!
Word: dirndl - (n) a full skirted dress with a tight bodice, low neck and short, full sleeves
Site: the Ultimate Dirndl page is a very poorly done geocities page dedicated entirely to dirndls (what IS the plural of dirndl??). The author claims to be a woman who likes to wear a dirndl to feel feminine. I think it is more likely that the author is someone with a dirndl fetish who likes to look at women in dirndls. Veddy Eenterestink.
Word: dirndl - (n) a full skirted dress with a tight bodice, low neck and short, full sleeves
Site: the Ultimate Dirndl page is a very poorly done geocities page dedicated entirely to dirndls (what IS the plural of dirndl??). The author claims to be a woman who likes to wear a dirndl to feel feminine. I think it is more likely that the author is someone with a dirndl fetish who likes to look at women in dirndls. Veddy Eenterestink.
from the Topics Blog
Open a dictionary and search Google for the first word you find - blog about the number one site!
My word:Underact - (v) to perform weakly or with insufficient expressiveness, to understate intentionally; underplay
The site: Surprise, surprise! It's an online dictionary. Not very exciting. I will have to try again sometime with a more interesting word.
Open a dictionary and search Google for the first word you find - blog about the number one site!
My word:Underact - (v) to perform weakly or with insufficient expressiveness, to understate intentionally; underplay
The site: Surprise, surprise! It's an online dictionary. Not very exciting. I will have to try again sometime with a more interesting word.
You, yes, YOU, could live forever. Just order Alex Chiu's amazing device.
___________
There are some CRAZY people out there. : )
___________
There are some CRAZY people out there. : )
You know when you really need a nap and you lay down and you finally fall asleep but it's not a deep sleep and things keep waking you up and then some salesperson comes to the door and talks loudly and startles you and gets your adrenaline pumping and you can't fall asleep again even though your head still hurts??? Yeah, I hate that.
Friday Five is up...
1. Where do you currently work?
I work at Helen Hunt Jackson Elementary. It is a public school here in SoCal. I am a 50% 3rd grade teacher with a class of 20 students. I work Wed., Thurs. and Fri. most weeks.
2. How many other jobs have you had and where?
Hhhmmm...in no particular order, I have worked as a filing clerk, a babysitter (many times), the director of a youth play, a tutor (x4), a waitress, a deli counter clerk (x2), a hotel maid, a cafeteria worker, a dishwasher, a caretaker of disabled adults, a summer school teacher, a preschool teacher, a substitute teacher, and a real teacher. I have worked in Minnesota, Wisconsin, New Jersey, and California. Many of these jobs I really enjoyed. Some of them I truly hated. A couple gave in insight that I wish I didn't have. (Do YOU know what if feels like to slice headcheese on a meat slicer? *shudder*)
3. What do you like best about your job?
I like getting to know my students and building a trusting, caring relationship with them. I like providing these kids with an adult that they can trust. Many of them don't get that anywhere else.
4. What do you like least about your job?
I don't like having to deal with the politics of teaching. When things are going well, everyone gets along and it's great. When there is a problem, schools split in a million ways - parents against teachers, teachers against administration, upper grades against lower grades, individuals against individuals. Everything you say becomes a weapon to be used in someone's favor. You have to watch yourself very carefully.
5. What is your dream job?
I'm livin' it, baby!!
1. Where do you currently work?
I work at Helen Hunt Jackson Elementary. It is a public school here in SoCal. I am a 50% 3rd grade teacher with a class of 20 students. I work Wed., Thurs. and Fri. most weeks.
2. How many other jobs have you had and where?
Hhhmmm...in no particular order, I have worked as a filing clerk, a babysitter (many times), the director of a youth play, a tutor (x4), a waitress, a deli counter clerk (x2), a hotel maid, a cafeteria worker, a dishwasher, a caretaker of disabled adults, a summer school teacher, a preschool teacher, a substitute teacher, and a real teacher. I have worked in Minnesota, Wisconsin, New Jersey, and California. Many of these jobs I really enjoyed. Some of them I truly hated. A couple gave in insight that I wish I didn't have. (Do YOU know what if feels like to slice headcheese on a meat slicer? *shudder*)
3. What do you like best about your job?
I like getting to know my students and building a trusting, caring relationship with them. I like providing these kids with an adult that they can trust. Many of them don't get that anywhere else.
4. What do you like least about your job?
I don't like having to deal with the politics of teaching. When things are going well, everyone gets along and it's great. When there is a problem, schools split in a million ways - parents against teachers, teachers against administration, upper grades against lower grades, individuals against individuals. Everything you say becomes a weapon to be used in someone's favor. You have to watch yourself very carefully.
5. What is your dream job?
I'm livin' it, baby!!
Random thoughts from the week:
For a slow, methodical, calming exercise Tai Chi Chih has really been working my legs. My calf muscles are killing me today.
The moon was full last night. As I left school it was just coming up - hanging there in the sky all big and round and magnified by the atmosphere. Very nice.
I'm not the only one who has been fooled into thinking that summer is here. My iceplant is blooming. My roses are blooming. The trees on the street are budding and blooming. It looks like spring here. It is only the middle of January.
I have barely touched my beloved little guitar this week. Sad. Did I tell you that I thought I would name her Isha? Just seems to fit in many ways.
I had a training session on Thursday. I gathered lots of good information and lots of ideas. Made me very excited to get back and put them into action. Then a real day on Friday made me realize how HARD it is to put the theoretical stuff into play when you are swamped with reality. I'm going in this morning to do more organization and planning. I will do what it takes because these kids need it. They need me. That is a good feeling.
Okay...that's enough. Gotta run.
For a slow, methodical, calming exercise Tai Chi Chih has really been working my legs. My calf muscles are killing me today.
The moon was full last night. As I left school it was just coming up - hanging there in the sky all big and round and magnified by the atmosphere. Very nice.
I'm not the only one who has been fooled into thinking that summer is here. My iceplant is blooming. My roses are blooming. The trees on the street are budding and blooming. It looks like spring here. It is only the middle of January.
I have barely touched my beloved little guitar this week. Sad. Did I tell you that I thought I would name her Isha? Just seems to fit in many ways.
I had a training session on Thursday. I gathered lots of good information and lots of ideas. Made me very excited to get back and put them into action. Then a real day on Friday made me realize how HARD it is to put the theoretical stuff into play when you are swamped with reality. I'm going in this morning to do more organization and planning. I will do what it takes because these kids need it. They need me. That is a good feeling.
Okay...that's enough. Gotta run.
Thursday, January 16, 2003
Tonight was my first Tai Chi class. I am learning a form of Tai Chi that has been adapted...I'll be honest...dumbed down...for those of us who aren't ready to make the commitment to the 190+ positions of regular Tai Chi. Lazy me. I enjoyed it. I am trying to be very receptive to the energy and balance of it. Hopefully, by keeping myself open to it's benefits, I can really...well...benefit from it! : )
What a week so far. Let's see...
Tuesday 3:30 pm - 6:00 pm
Wednesday 7:30am - 6:00 pm
Thursday 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
(Friday 7:30 am - 5:00 pm)
(Saturday 10:00 am - 1:00 pm)
So. For my 1/2 time job I have already put in 21.5 hours. And I can see myself easily putting in another 12+ hours. I know that 35 hours a week doesn't sound like much, but I am working 1/2 time. I know...I sound whiny. Shame on me. I'll stop now.
Tuesday 3:30 pm - 6:00 pm
Wednesday 7:30am - 6:00 pm
Thursday 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
(Friday 7:30 am - 5:00 pm)
(Saturday 10:00 am - 1:00 pm)
So. For my 1/2 time job I have already put in 21.5 hours. And I can see myself easily putting in another 12+ hours. I know that 35 hours a week doesn't sound like much, but I am working 1/2 time. I know...I sound whiny. Shame on me. I'll stop now.
Tuesday, January 14, 2003
We are implementing a new behavior management program with our big kitty. He has gradually become more and more agressive towards the little one. Not all the time - just every once in a while. She will be sleeping quietly somewhere and he will go over and attack her for no apparent reason. It has gotten to the point that if he walks past her she will hiss and swat at him in self-defense. So...he is going through behavior modification.
Every time he is aggressive towards her the following things happen...
1. He is told "No! Bad kitty!" in a loud voice.
2. He is physically taken to the little bathroom and shut inside for 2 minutes.
3. The person who put him in the bathroom opens the door and lets him out.
4. He gets love and attention from that person.
Hopefully, he will make the connection between his attacks and the consequences. *sigh* Raising cats is so hard. : )
Every time he is aggressive towards her the following things happen...
1. He is told "No! Bad kitty!" in a loud voice.
2. He is physically taken to the little bathroom and shut inside for 2 minutes.
3. The person who put him in the bathroom opens the door and lets him out.
4. He gets love and attention from that person.
Hopefully, he will make the connection between his attacks and the consequences. *sigh* Raising cats is so hard. : )
Zander let me in on a little secret...today is Bloggin' Lovefest Day! What a good idea!! Apparently Robyn over at Tampa Tantrum decided that bloggers were being too witchy to each other. She created Bloggin' Lovefest as a day to share your thoughts on your favorite blog. Whoo Hoo! I like it.
Trouble is...I don't know enough about any of the blogs I read to really choose...I am still working hard at finding my faves. So I guess I will give props to the ones that I read every day. I love you all!!!
1. Zander at "Close Encounters of the Zanderkind" - What can I say? This kid inspires me. He has been through hell and back and instead of letting it drive him into the ground, he's one of the sweetest, friendliest, most intelligent teens I know. I read him several times a day, never knowing if he's going to make me laugh, cry or gasp with shock.
2. Da Goddess, Joanie - I read Joanie because she does a wonderful job of sharing her thoughts. Her writing about her son, her job, her friends - they pull me in and leave me wishing I were part of the inner circle. Joanie is a nurse and a mom and takes both of her jobs very seriously. I admire her and respect her for being able to do either of these jobs, let alone both at the same time.
3. Joie at Life in Louisiana - I am very sad that Joie isn't posting lately, because if I had to pick a favorite she would be it. She is a blend of super-smarts and super-sillies that I was instantly comfortable with. She's on hiatus for now, but I am eagerly awaiting her return in the form of Moving On in Minnesota. Love ya, Joie!!
4. Acidman at Gut Rumbles - Two things happen whenever I read Gut Rumbles. I always get mad. And I always look at something from a new angle. Rob is opinionated, vulger and stubborn. He is also one of the best dads you could ever meet. I don't agree with him on much, but I always enjoy the thoughts he gets started.
5. The gang over at In Passing - I believe it is Eve who started it. She is an evesdropper and she posts odd, moving or intriguing things she overhears. Then the discussions begin. Sometimes educational, always entertaining...
Who else? There are about 15 blogs I read most every day. I enjoy them all.
Trouble is...I don't know enough about any of the blogs I read to really choose...I am still working hard at finding my faves. So I guess I will give props to the ones that I read every day. I love you all!!!
1. Zander at "Close Encounters of the Zanderkind" - What can I say? This kid inspires me. He has been through hell and back and instead of letting it drive him into the ground, he's one of the sweetest, friendliest, most intelligent teens I know. I read him several times a day, never knowing if he's going to make me laugh, cry or gasp with shock.
2. Da Goddess, Joanie - I read Joanie because she does a wonderful job of sharing her thoughts. Her writing about her son, her job, her friends - they pull me in and leave me wishing I were part of the inner circle. Joanie is a nurse and a mom and takes both of her jobs very seriously. I admire her and respect her for being able to do either of these jobs, let alone both at the same time.
3. Joie at Life in Louisiana - I am very sad that Joie isn't posting lately, because if I had to pick a favorite she would be it. She is a blend of super-smarts and super-sillies that I was instantly comfortable with. She's on hiatus for now, but I am eagerly awaiting her return in the form of Moving On in Minnesota. Love ya, Joie!!
4. Acidman at Gut Rumbles - Two things happen whenever I read Gut Rumbles. I always get mad. And I always look at something from a new angle. Rob is opinionated, vulger and stubborn. He is also one of the best dads you could ever meet. I don't agree with him on much, but I always enjoy the thoughts he gets started.
5. The gang over at In Passing - I believe it is Eve who started it. She is an evesdropper and she posts odd, moving or intriguing things she overhears. Then the discussions begin. Sometimes educational, always entertaining...
Who else? There are about 15 blogs I read most every day. I enjoy them all.
Monday, January 13, 2003
See what I did??? Well, to be honest, Mikey told me what to do. But I decided what I wanted. And I almost got it. You like?
Not to give you the impression that I want to discuss anything of importance here, but what the hell is going on in the Whitehouse? And why on earth is it happening? How did we get ourselves into such a mess?
I pulled my little ostrich brain out of the comfy cozy hole in the sand I usually occupy to find that still more people are saying that there IS NO PROOF that Iraq is collecting weapons of mass destruction. Bush's justification for this little war is BOGUS. Here we are piling up troops and weapons and hatred on the borders of Iraq and our "reason" isn't even being backed by the ones who were sent over there specifically to back us. It is rediculous. It's disgusting. It's really, really sad.
Some thoughts on the subject (in no particular order and with no guarantee of coherence):
1. Bush is a fool. He is someone's puppet. I don't have the political knowledge or interest to be able to say who is pulling his strings, but as far as I am concerned he has the wit and ability of a bowl of Jello. This, in conjunction with the power we have heaped on him (and by default the people behind the curtains), makes him one of the most dangerous men in the world.
2. I love my country. I love it's mountains and it's oceans and it's trees. I love a great many of the individuals that I have met here. I love the pines and the palms and the cactus and the oak. I love the coyote, the black bear, the blue jays, the otters. I enjoy being part of a country in which I can be a woman, a homeowner, and a voter all at the same time. I enjoy being able to expose myself to so many other cultures without leaving the borders of my own state.
3. That being said...I am intensely disappointed in the United States. We have taken our freedoms, our strength, our power, and instead of using these things wisely we have squandered and abused them like surly teenagers. Which is exactly what we look like to the rest of the world. As a country - as a political being - we think we know it all and when others try to express a differing opinion we stick our collective fingers in our collective ears and sing "La la la...I can't hear you...la la la!!!" No wonder everyone hates us.
4. I DON'T think that we "deserve" what happened on Sept. 11th or at any other time that violence has occured within our borders. I DO think that if we showed any kind of compassion and understanding towards the world we wouldn't be in this situation. And I don't mean sending more "aid money". I mean each individual taking a good, long, hard look at the lives we are living and how said lives are affecting everyone else. EVERYONE ELSE.
5. I am spiritually opposed to this, and all, wars and I would leave the country before I would pick up a weapon. This is not because I am a coward or a communist. This is because there is NOTHING in the world that can justify killing in my mind and I will not allow my government to force me to cross that line. For the moment this is a moot point, being that women aren't included in the draft, but I know that would quickly change if push came to shove. I am fully prepared to give up everything I have to avoid being responsible for the death of another human being.
6. Just because one person (or one country) does something bad/wrong/evil doesn't mean that it is okay for another person (or country) to commit the same crime in retaliation. I tell my students this all the time when they are getting in trouble for hitting someone BACK. It's not okay to hit. EVER.
Anyway...just some poorly organized, overly emotional thoughts from this peace-monger. I will now return my head to the sand and pretend this isn't happening. Bleh.
I pulled my little ostrich brain out of the comfy cozy hole in the sand I usually occupy to find that still more people are saying that there IS NO PROOF that Iraq is collecting weapons of mass destruction. Bush's justification for this little war is BOGUS. Here we are piling up troops and weapons and hatred on the borders of Iraq and our "reason" isn't even being backed by the ones who were sent over there specifically to back us. It is rediculous. It's disgusting. It's really, really sad.
Some thoughts on the subject (in no particular order and with no guarantee of coherence):
1. Bush is a fool. He is someone's puppet. I don't have the political knowledge or interest to be able to say who is pulling his strings, but as far as I am concerned he has the wit and ability of a bowl of Jello. This, in conjunction with the power we have heaped on him (and by default the people behind the curtains), makes him one of the most dangerous men in the world.
2. I love my country. I love it's mountains and it's oceans and it's trees. I love a great many of the individuals that I have met here. I love the pines and the palms and the cactus and the oak. I love the coyote, the black bear, the blue jays, the otters. I enjoy being part of a country in which I can be a woman, a homeowner, and a voter all at the same time. I enjoy being able to expose myself to so many other cultures without leaving the borders of my own state.
3. That being said...I am intensely disappointed in the United States. We have taken our freedoms, our strength, our power, and instead of using these things wisely we have squandered and abused them like surly teenagers. Which is exactly what we look like to the rest of the world. As a country - as a political being - we think we know it all and when others try to express a differing opinion we stick our collective fingers in our collective ears and sing "La la la...I can't hear you...la la la!!!" No wonder everyone hates us.
4. I DON'T think that we "deserve" what happened on Sept. 11th or at any other time that violence has occured within our borders. I DO think that if we showed any kind of compassion and understanding towards the world we wouldn't be in this situation. And I don't mean sending more "aid money". I mean each individual taking a good, long, hard look at the lives we are living and how said lives are affecting everyone else. EVERYONE ELSE.
5. I am spiritually opposed to this, and all, wars and I would leave the country before I would pick up a weapon. This is not because I am a coward or a communist. This is because there is NOTHING in the world that can justify killing in my mind and I will not allow my government to force me to cross that line. For the moment this is a moot point, being that women aren't included in the draft, but I know that would quickly change if push came to shove. I am fully prepared to give up everything I have to avoid being responsible for the death of another human being.
6. Just because one person (or one country) does something bad/wrong/evil doesn't mean that it is okay for another person (or country) to commit the same crime in retaliation. I tell my students this all the time when they are getting in trouble for hitting someone BACK. It's not okay to hit. EVER.
Anyway...just some poorly organized, overly emotional thoughts from this peace-monger. I will now return my head to the sand and pretend this isn't happening. Bleh.
Mikey's having a contest over at Hamumu Software in celebration of his newest project. He's hoping to get some interesting art that is related to his game, Dr. Lunatic, and all it's additions. Head on over to see the rules. Enter. Tell your friends to enter. It'll be fun. : )
I feel so housewifish. I made a gourmet lunch today. I was looking through my recipe box and found my mom's recipe for Chicken Paprikash. As usual, seeing the recipe made me hungry for it so I found the dumpling recipe that goes with it and got cooking. Lunch was yummy paprikash chicken with sour cream - paprika gravy and dumplings. Delish. Then I cleaned the kitchen and made crispie treats. Can't get much more housewifey than that!!! Of course, these aren't REGULAR crispie treats. Anyone who is stuck in the rut of only making crispie treats out of rice crispies is a sad person indeed. The batch I made the other day were from corn flakes and m&m's. This batch is mostly corn flakes with a couple cups of Strawberry Honey Bunches of Oats. And a little red food coloring to keep up the theme. Yum. Yum. Yum. This is all a reward for Mikey for fixing my blog. He's a good guy.
Good Lord. I am so NOT impressed with the benefits department of my district. Not only did they manage to not put me into the system for my dental insurance so that I had to pay for my last appointment and then bill the insurance later, but now I found out that all the paperwork I did regarding my partner turning over her half of the benefits was for naught. They took $300 out of my last paycheck because someone messed up. My paycheck is small enough that $300 is a hefty chunk!!! Bleh. Hooray for working for the government!!! Oh yeah, and getting ahold of anyone in the benefits department is like pulling teeth! **Sigh**
Sunday, January 12, 2003
MMMMmmmm....a yummy lunch and a nice little nap later and I am feeling quite satisfied. We went to the Garden Center Cafe in Fallbrook. They serve lunch and breakfast all day and only serve dinners on Thurs., Fri. and Sat. I had Huevos Rancheros - scrambled eggs, salsa, cheese, chilis all together on a corn tortilla with black beans and flour tortillas on the side. Delish. I was stuffed! Mikey had a Monte Cristo sammy (code for "sandwich" at our house) for the first time. Those things are strange. Who first thought it would be fun to make a sammy and then dip it in egg and pan-fry it? Very strange indeed. But yummy. In a strange way. : )
I played some Tony Hawk 4 with Mikey. I was able to control my frustration for about 3 rounds of Graffiti and then it was just too sad to know that he could kick my butt seven ways 'til Sunday no matter how hard I was trying. It's not the kind of game you can just "fake". Now, DOA 2, THAT is a game you can "fake". I can easily win by just randomly pressing buttons and waiting for something interesting to happen! : )
I played some Tony Hawk 4 with Mikey. I was able to control my frustration for about 3 rounds of Graffiti and then it was just too sad to know that he could kick my butt seven ways 'til Sunday no matter how hard I was trying. It's not the kind of game you can just "fake". Now, DOA 2, THAT is a game you can "fake". I can easily win by just randomly pressing buttons and waiting for something interesting to happen! : )
