As planned, we rented a car and headed a few kilometers out of town to visit with some friends of a friend. When my co-worker "A" heard where we were going, she hooked us up with her friends "B" and "G", saying that they knew all about La Paz and we should chat with them. Boy did we! But let me start at the beginning.
It turns out that if you want an automatic transmission, you have to pay 200 pesos more, so I bit the bullet and offered to be the driver for the day. We rented our car, a cute little azul Nissan Platina, from Hertz and followed the directions to the house. Thankfully, the speed limits here are all ludicrously low (40-60 km/hr), so I didn't feel pressured to move too quickly, although most of the locals were flying past me. Crazy American drivers! We got there safe and sound with hardly a mistake - something I am quite proud of.
"G" had made a delicious lunch of frittata and salad, which we enjoyed after a brief tour of their house. They designed it themselves and it is beautiful. Because the weather here is so wonderful and consistent (highs of 80-100F and lows of 40-60F year-round), they built three small buildings rather than one big one and connected them with covered breezeways. The main building contains the kitchen and living room. Then off to one side is the bedroom/bathroom and den/office and off to the other (in an L shape) is the guest room/bathroom and laundry room. There was a palapa covered screen gazebo where we ate lunch and the whole yard was filled with cactus, palms and flowering bushes. The yard was covered with crushed rock and there was a pool smack dab in the middle of everything.
We spent quite some time talking with them about their experiences. Both are retired now and quite settled in La Paz, but they spent 15 years earlier sailing around the world on their own boat. They love being in Mexico and they have many of the same ideas about life that Mikey and I have. Our conversation was far-reaching (from pets and vets to politics to children to efficient living) and quite educational. I hope that we will see them again when we come back, for surely we will be doing so. I would like to make this our regular vacation spot!
We managed to tear ourselves away from our new friends and make our way back home in the late afternoon. In order to return the car with the same amount of gas as we got it, we had to stop and buy 7 liters of gas from the Pemex (apparently the one and only gas station around, possibly because they have a refinery/plant just out of town). We dropped of the car and walked back to our hotel. My head hurts a bit from the concentration required for driving in a different country, but I am thrilled that we took the chance to make this trip.
Thursday, March 31, 2005
Thursday's Journal Entry
Thursday, March 31, 2005
We have come to the conclusion that being in America is very much like being in the Kiddie Pool. Everything is designed to be safe and one is protected from all dangers including one’s self. Mexico, on the other hand, is the big pool. Not only that, but there is no railing on the steps and the diving board is labeled “Use At Your Own Risk” - if it is labeled at all. I like being in the big pool - there’s lots more room to swim - but it sure makes me realize how coddled I have been.
Yesterday morning, we headed out with two goals. We wanted to find breakfast and we wanted to take the bus to Pichilingue (one of the beaches). We stopped at the bus station first, and lo and behold, the bus was leaving in 2 minutes. So, instead of getting breakfast, we got on the bus.
You know how in America the buses have maps all over showing the route and all the stops? And how the drivers (or a PA system) tell you which stop is next at all times? And how all the cities and towns and even crossroads are clearly marked so you always know where you are? Well, that isn’t the case in Mexico. Or maybe it is and my lack of language made it seem as though it wasn’t, but I was watching very carefully. Anyway, we ended up getting off about a ¼ mile from our actual stop (my fault for freaking out and thinking we were going to miss it) and walking the rest of the way. By the time we got to the beach, we were both hungry and stressed at having been lost (although only slightly). The restaurants weren’t yet open, so we walked up and down the beach some, took some pictures, ate a little snack from our bag, and decided to head out.
We walked back to where the bus had dropped us off and found a taxi. Rather than calling it a day and going back to the hotel like wusses, we decided to go to Tecolote (another beach that had been recommended to us). I’m glad we did because it was more like what I was expecting. We managed to find a good lunch and made plans for a snorkeling tour on Sabado (Saturday). We took more pictures and lounged on the beach just long enough for my face to become slightly blotchy (ugh). Rather than stress about how to find and catch the bus back to La Paz, we grabbed another taxi, getting home safely.
We cooled off in the room for awhile and then did some walking. Mikey managed to find a churro stand and I got to do some window shopping. We watched the sun set over the water and looked for shells on the beach. Later, we had dinner at a nice little restaurant where the waiter tried to explain what a huarache was even though he didn’t know English and we didn’t understand the Spanish. I ordered it anyway and really enjoyed it. It turns out that it was beans, lettuce, cheese and tomato on a thick corn tortilla-like bread. I got the one with nopalitos (chopped cactus leaf) added. I ate cactus!!
I was exhausted by the time we got back to our room and went to sleep shortly thereafter. Today, we are going to meet with friends of a friend back home who have retired here. We are also going to brave the Mexican roads and rent ourselves a car. I just have to remember that even if things don’t go exactly as planned, it will be okay. We can’t possibly get so lost that we won’t eventually find our way back to La Paz. Especially since anyone we ask will be able to help us. I’m still keeping my fingers crossed that the directions I got are good ones and the roads are easy to manage.
We have come to the conclusion that being in America is very much like being in the Kiddie Pool. Everything is designed to be safe and one is protected from all dangers including one’s self. Mexico, on the other hand, is the big pool. Not only that, but there is no railing on the steps and the diving board is labeled “Use At Your Own Risk” - if it is labeled at all. I like being in the big pool - there’s lots more room to swim - but it sure makes me realize how coddled I have been.
Yesterday morning, we headed out with two goals. We wanted to find breakfast and we wanted to take the bus to Pichilingue (one of the beaches). We stopped at the bus station first, and lo and behold, the bus was leaving in 2 minutes. So, instead of getting breakfast, we got on the bus.
You know how in America the buses have maps all over showing the route and all the stops? And how the drivers (or a PA system) tell you which stop is next at all times? And how all the cities and towns and even crossroads are clearly marked so you always know where you are? Well, that isn’t the case in Mexico. Or maybe it is and my lack of language made it seem as though it wasn’t, but I was watching very carefully. Anyway, we ended up getting off about a ¼ mile from our actual stop (my fault for freaking out and thinking we were going to miss it) and walking the rest of the way. By the time we got to the beach, we were both hungry and stressed at having been lost (although only slightly). The restaurants weren’t yet open, so we walked up and down the beach some, took some pictures, ate a little snack from our bag, and decided to head out.
We walked back to where the bus had dropped us off and found a taxi. Rather than calling it a day and going back to the hotel like wusses, we decided to go to Tecolote (another beach that had been recommended to us). I’m glad we did because it was more like what I was expecting. We managed to find a good lunch and made plans for a snorkeling tour on Sabado (Saturday). We took more pictures and lounged on the beach just long enough for my face to become slightly blotchy (ugh). Rather than stress about how to find and catch the bus back to La Paz, we grabbed another taxi, getting home safely.
We cooled off in the room for awhile and then did some walking. Mikey managed to find a churro stand and I got to do some window shopping. We watched the sun set over the water and looked for shells on the beach. Later, we had dinner at a nice little restaurant where the waiter tried to explain what a huarache was even though he didn’t know English and we didn’t understand the Spanish. I ordered it anyway and really enjoyed it. It turns out that it was beans, lettuce, cheese and tomato on a thick corn tortilla-like bread. I got the one with nopalitos (chopped cactus leaf) added. I ate cactus!!
I was exhausted by the time we got back to our room and went to sleep shortly thereafter. Today, we are going to meet with friends of a friend back home who have retired here. We are also going to brave the Mexican roads and rent ourselves a car. I just have to remember that even if things don’t go exactly as planned, it will be okay. We can’t possibly get so lost that we won’t eventually find our way back to La Paz. Especially since anyone we ask will be able to help us. I’m still keeping my fingers crossed that the directions I got are good ones and the roads are easy to manage.
Wednesday, March 30, 2005
Wednesday's Journal Entry
Wednesday, March 30, 2005
Mmmm. Yesterday, we found a great little, hidden away restaurant for breakfast. We got to have frijoles for the first time on our whole trip (the hotel we’re at serves mostly American and Italian style foods). The women there were very nice to us, but didn’t speak any English, so we had to fumble through our ordering carefully.
We had plans to make some stops for snorkel gear and such, but everywhere we went was either closed or non-existent. So, we wondered away from the Malecon, toward the center of town. The sidewalks here are unbelievable. You have to watch your step or you risk not making the 2 foot drop from one brick to another in some places or falling into a gaping whole in others. I guess they figure that humans should be capable of looking out for themselves, something that is not common in the US. I can only imagine the lawsuits that would happen!
I took tons of pictures (from the outside) of the local mission. I wanted to be able to show it to my students, as we just finished learning about CA missions. Since it is still being used as a church and I was clothed in shorts and a tank top, we didn’t go inside, but I may venture in sometime later. We also saw the Governor’s house, which was located on the other side of a garden square. The old buildings are really something to look at. I thought it was interesting that the mission was located at the corner of Independencia and Revolucion streets. Irony, no?
Walking in the sun made us hot, hot, hot, so we stopped in an ice cream shop for goodies. Mikey got yummy Fresa Crema (Strawberry Cream) ice cream in a cone-cup and I had a pina (pineapple) popsicle. There were Popsicles with Mango con Chile and Tuna (which, it turns out, means Prickly Pear). The wonders of the internet tell us that La Paz is known for its wacky ice cream flavors.
We once again napped and lounged on the sun terrace through the hottest part of the day, venturing out around 6 to find our dinner. We were hoping to find an authentic Mexican restaurant (something that is proving dificil), but it was closed, so we had pizza instead. Our waitress was very patient and understanding with our limited Spanish and we completely enjoyed the experience. They were even having a 2 for 1 discount!
Today, we are planning to hit the beach (via bus, since we are still afraid of renting a car) at Tecolote for some non-walking sun and snorkeling. I’ll let you know if we see anything exciting.
Mmmm. Yesterday, we found a great little, hidden away restaurant for breakfast. We got to have frijoles for the first time on our whole trip (the hotel we’re at serves mostly American and Italian style foods). The women there were very nice to us, but didn’t speak any English, so we had to fumble through our ordering carefully.
We had plans to make some stops for snorkel gear and such, but everywhere we went was either closed or non-existent. So, we wondered away from the Malecon, toward the center of town. The sidewalks here are unbelievable. You have to watch your step or you risk not making the 2 foot drop from one brick to another in some places or falling into a gaping whole in others. I guess they figure that humans should be capable of looking out for themselves, something that is not common in the US. I can only imagine the lawsuits that would happen!
I took tons of pictures (from the outside) of the local mission. I wanted to be able to show it to my students, as we just finished learning about CA missions. Since it is still being used as a church and I was clothed in shorts and a tank top, we didn’t go inside, but I may venture in sometime later. We also saw the Governor’s house, which was located on the other side of a garden square. The old buildings are really something to look at. I thought it was interesting that the mission was located at the corner of Independencia and Revolucion streets. Irony, no?
Walking in the sun made us hot, hot, hot, so we stopped in an ice cream shop for goodies. Mikey got yummy Fresa Crema (Strawberry Cream) ice cream in a cone-cup and I had a pina (pineapple) popsicle. There were Popsicles with Mango con Chile and Tuna (which, it turns out, means Prickly Pear). The wonders of the internet tell us that La Paz is known for its wacky ice cream flavors.
We once again napped and lounged on the sun terrace through the hottest part of the day, venturing out around 6 to find our dinner. We were hoping to find an authentic Mexican restaurant (something that is proving dificil), but it was closed, so we had pizza instead. Our waitress was very patient and understanding with our limited Spanish and we completely enjoyed the experience. They were even having a 2 for 1 discount!
Today, we are planning to hit the beach (via bus, since we are still afraid of renting a car) at Tecolote for some non-walking sun and snorkeling. I’ll let you know if we see anything exciting.
Tuesday's Journal Entry
regular font = Sol, italics = Mikey
Tuesday, March 29, 2005
It looks like I am going to be about a day behind on my journaling for this whole trip! What happened to us yesterday? Hmm…
We got up on Monday at a reasonable hour and took our time showering and getting ready to face the world. For breakfast, we headed down to the hotel Café. I’m quite proud of myself because I ordered the whole meal in Spanish. The waiter didn’t laugh at me, either - although I could see that he wanted to. It is a good thing that I trust this hotel, because as soon as I had finished my meal of Tomate Mozarela Cuernito y ensalada, Solee realized that she had been told not to get salads (“ensaladas”) because they are often rinsed in tap water instead of purified water. So far all is well though! And we ended up both having salads at lunner (also at the hotel).
Anyway, after breakfast, we chatted with Norbert, one of the hotel’s owners, and asked him what to do around here. He went on for days and days with lists of things, so we just started walking up the Malecón to see things. There are tons of little shops and restaurants, and one pier with a missing board you have to jump over. It’s for the brave. We must have walked for miles…or at least it seemed that way. We found lots of mercados, restaurants for future meals, a casa de cambio (money exchange), the bus station, and many interesting things to look at.
When we returned to our room after several hours of walking and sun, it was time for una siesta. The rest of the afternoon was spent at the hotel, checking e-mail, lounging on the sun terrace, enjoying dinner and watching a DVD on the computer. There is a television with cable in our room, but we haven’t turned it on yet. I would enjoy listening to Spanish TV, I think, but I am afraid I will learn there is English TV too. We’ve worked hard to get American TV out of our systems lately. It would be a shame to give in now.
This morning, I got to sleep until almost 9. Ah. I miss the kitties, but not their insistence that they be fed at 6 am! We are going to do some more exploring in town today. I think we’re going to end up renting a car for a few days so we can check out the out of town areas (and the beach) tomorrow.
Tuesday, March 29, 2005
It looks like I am going to be about a day behind on my journaling for this whole trip! What happened to us yesterday? Hmm…
We got up on Monday at a reasonable hour and took our time showering and getting ready to face the world. For breakfast, we headed down to the hotel Café. I’m quite proud of myself because I ordered the whole meal in Spanish. The waiter didn’t laugh at me, either - although I could see that he wanted to. It is a good thing that I trust this hotel, because as soon as I had finished my meal of Tomate Mozarela Cuernito y ensalada, Solee realized that she had been told not to get salads (“ensaladas”) because they are often rinsed in tap water instead of purified water. So far all is well though! And we ended up both having salads at lunner (also at the hotel).
Anyway, after breakfast, we chatted with Norbert, one of the hotel’s owners, and asked him what to do around here. He went on for days and days with lists of things, so we just started walking up the Malecón to see things. There are tons of little shops and restaurants, and one pier with a missing board you have to jump over. It’s for the brave. We must have walked for miles…or at least it seemed that way. We found lots of mercados, restaurants for future meals, a casa de cambio (money exchange), the bus station, and many interesting things to look at.
When we returned to our room after several hours of walking and sun, it was time for una siesta. The rest of the afternoon was spent at the hotel, checking e-mail, lounging on the sun terrace, enjoying dinner and watching a DVD on the computer. There is a television with cable in our room, but we haven’t turned it on yet. I would enjoy listening to Spanish TV, I think, but I am afraid I will learn there is English TV too. We’ve worked hard to get American TV out of our systems lately. It would be a shame to give in now.
This morning, I got to sleep until almost 9. Ah. I miss the kitties, but not their insistence that they be fed at 6 am! We are going to do some more exploring in town today. I think we’re going to end up renting a car for a few days so we can check out the out of town areas (and the beach) tomorrow.
Tuesday, March 29, 2005
Monday's Journal Entry
* regular font is Sol, italics is Mikey
Monday, March 28, 2005
Our trip so far has been uneventful - just the way you like the travel parts to be. We originally left about an hour earlier than planned, which was good because 20 minutes into the drive to LA we realized that we hadn’t gotten our passports. Even with the backtracking, we left our car at the parking lot and made it to the airport exactly 2 hours pre-flight time. While we grabbed a late lunch at the International Food Court (I’ve seen more international choices at the mall!) our flight got pushed back 30 minutes or so. Just when I was starting to wonder what was going on, they boarded our flight.
Our first stop was in Hermosillo. Everyone de-planed (De plane, boss, de plane!) and we went through a customs line. Then we got back on the plane for the second leg of the journey. We arrived in La Paz last night at about 9:30. Our plane went on the Guadalajara, but we got off, found our bags, and headed for the curb. Someone called for a taxi and we took a 5 km ride for $270 (pesos). From the look on the guys face as he handed us our bags, we got fleeced, but we were just happy to be at the Hotel Mediterrane without any problems.
Our room is small, but clean and well furnished. But not very furnished - there’s no phone! And unfortunately, the wireless network they proclaimed doesn’t appear to reach our room, so, combined with our cell phone not operating in Mexico, we’re truly incommunicado. (It turns out the internet works, you just have to be in the right spot!) It’s like the darkest reaches of Africa, but with cable TV. The ceiling is this vaulted thing with paint sponged in pastel colors, and if you look up at it long enough it starts to look like it’s underwater. Or maybe I was just very tired from the rowdy neighborhood all night.
Now this morning we need to have breakfast, then obtain más pesos. If a cab ride’s going to cost us $25, we need more than the handy startup cash Uncle Joe provided for us. That sure helped though! Then perhaps a walk on the Malecón to see just what La Paz is about.
Monday, March 28, 2005
Our trip so far has been uneventful - just the way you like the travel parts to be. We originally left about an hour earlier than planned, which was good because 20 minutes into the drive to LA we realized that we hadn’t gotten our passports. Even with the backtracking, we left our car at the parking lot and made it to the airport exactly 2 hours pre-flight time. While we grabbed a late lunch at the International Food Court (I’ve seen more international choices at the mall!) our flight got pushed back 30 minutes or so. Just when I was starting to wonder what was going on, they boarded our flight.
Our first stop was in Hermosillo. Everyone de-planed (De plane, boss, de plane!) and we went through a customs line. Then we got back on the plane for the second leg of the journey. We arrived in La Paz last night at about 9:30. Our plane went on the Guadalajara, but we got off, found our bags, and headed for the curb. Someone called for a taxi and we took a 5 km ride for $270 (pesos). From the look on the guys face as he handed us our bags, we got fleeced, but we were just happy to be at the Hotel Mediterrane without any problems.
Our room is small, but clean and well furnished. But not very furnished - there’s no phone! And unfortunately, the wireless network they proclaimed doesn’t appear to reach our room, so, combined with our cell phone not operating in Mexico, we’re truly incommunicado. (It turns out the internet works, you just have to be in the right spot!) It’s like the darkest reaches of Africa, but with cable TV. The ceiling is this vaulted thing with paint sponged in pastel colors, and if you look up at it long enough it starts to look like it’s underwater. Or maybe I was just very tired from the rowdy neighborhood all night.
Now this morning we need to have breakfast, then obtain más pesos. If a cab ride’s going to cost us $25, we need more than the handy startup cash Uncle Joe provided for us. That sure helped though! Then perhaps a walk on the Malecón to see just what La Paz is about.
Monday, March 28, 2005
Today's Events:
~ Woke up around 8, spent leisurely time getting showered and ready
~ Breakfast in the Cafe, ordered entirely in Spanish, much to the amusement of our waiter
~ Chatted with hotel owner about things to do in La Paz
~ Wandered along the Malecon (boardwalk) and back through town for several hours
~ Napped in our room
~ Late lunch in the hotel restaurant (YUM...mushroom filled spinach ravioli in cream sauce, spinach gnocchi in cream sauce)
~ Phoned friends of a friend and arranged to meet later in the week
~ Loosely planned week's events, including lots of snorkle time
~ Read on the Sun Terrace as the sun set and a nice breeze blew
~ Back to the room to check e-mail and tell y'all about my day
Sounds pretty good, doesn't it? 7 more days of that in my future! I love vacations.
~ Breakfast in the Cafe, ordered entirely in Spanish, much to the amusement of our waiter
~ Chatted with hotel owner about things to do in La Paz
~ Wandered along the Malecon (boardwalk) and back through town for several hours
~ Napped in our room
~ Late lunch in the hotel restaurant (YUM...mushroom filled spinach ravioli in cream sauce, spinach gnocchi in cream sauce)
~ Phoned friends of a friend and arranged to meet later in the week
~ Loosely planned week's events, including lots of snorkle time
~ Read on the Sun Terrace as the sun set and a nice breeze blew
~ Back to the room to check e-mail and tell y'all about my day
Sounds pretty good, doesn't it? 7 more days of that in my future! I love vacations.
Buen Viaje!
We have arrived. The room is great, the weather warm, and there are no escalators in sight. We ordered our first breakfast entirely in Spanish and the waiter did his best not to laugh at us. We're off to find something interesting to do as soon as Mikey finishes with his 7 kajillion e-mails. Talk to you later!
Sunday, March 27, 2005
Couch Sessions
So, last night I had a dream. Not the Martin Luther King, Jr. kind. More of a Sigmund Freud kind. I was riding up an escalator and I couldn't get off. It ended in a wall with only a small platform off to one side that you had to jump to get to. I couldn't go back down because it was going too fast. I just kept trying to jump and failing. I was stuck. So, doctor, whaddaya think it means?
Saturday, March 26, 2005
Ta ta for now.
No kids, no troubles, no alarm clocks, no work, no worries for 8 whole days. Instead I will be relaxing to the very best of my ability in beautiful La Paz. Perhaps you will hear from me, perhaps not. Have a good weekend, a joyous Easter, and a nice spring break if you are lucky enough to have one. :)
Thursday, March 24, 2005
More Bad Kat
I have to keep my house plants at school because the baby chews them down to nubs if there are within his reach. I had the brilliant idea of growing him some grass (the lawn kind!) that he can chew on and not get in trouble. A very good idea, except for one thing. Until it grows, there is nothing but a pot of dirt. Or at least there WAS a pot of dirt...
Bad Kat
The baby just figured out that the big bag in the kitchen contained cat food, so he started gnawing at the corners of the bag. I stopped him just before he was covered in a sea of Restricted Calorie. This is why we usually put the cat food in rinsed out kitty litter tubs. No gnawing on the corners.
Tuesday, March 22, 2005
I survived!
We had our 4th grade field trip to the San Luis Rey mission in Oceanside today. The mission is always fun to see and the kids did a great job. I am always a little manic on these trips, feeling responsible for not only my kids, but any within eyesight of me, as well as all the parents who come along to help. I spend the whole time frantically scanning the crowd for problems and come home wound like a spring. This is entirely my own issue, however, since everything went smoothly and all were present and accounted for on the trip home (my worst nightmare is leaving a kid somewhere!). Everyone had a good time, meaning that we accomplished what we set out to do.
Scenes from my Life
Me (talking about something extremely important, I'm sure): So, I'm kind of, somewhere in the back of my mind, ...
Mikey interrupting: Really? Well, don't get lost in there.
Mikey interrupting: Really? Well, don't get lost in there.
Monday, March 21, 2005
Talent
I am helping with our school talent show again this year. There are a few kids who are really talented - they can do ballet or gymnastics, sing, play an instrument, or even just put on a funny skit. But the majority, maybe even 75%, of the kids who tried out were doing nothing more than jumping around to loud music. This kind of dance is fun, but I am not sure it qualifies as talent, especially when all one is doing is copying the bump and grind moves of today's famous females. Do parents really think this music (and even worse - those moves!) are appropriate for their kids. If they are relaxed enough to allow their kids to listen to songs about dressing up as a french maid and doing it on the kitchen floor, do they think it is appropriate for school settings? I don't understand.
In my class, we have a talent show each year on my birthday (I hate working that day). It is completely done by the kids, invitations, decorations, performances, you name it. This year I am requiring each child to spend at least 1 minute (no more than 3) telling us about something they do well. They know that it can be anything from yo-yo tricks to jokes to sharing artwork to reading a poem. They also know that there will be NO booty-shakin' in my room. I can set limits even if some parents can't. (Actually, I have great parents and no worries about what my kids will be doing.)
In my class, we have a talent show each year on my birthday (I hate working that day). It is completely done by the kids, invitations, decorations, performances, you name it. This year I am requiring each child to spend at least 1 minute (no more than 3) telling us about something they do well. They know that it can be anything from yo-yo tricks to jokes to sharing artwork to reading a poem. They also know that there will be NO booty-shakin' in my room. I can set limits even if some parents can't. (Actually, I have great parents and no worries about what my kids will be doing.)
Sad, but Fitting
I took Rojo to school today to find him a good home. One of the fifth grade teachers has a small tank in his room and I figured that it would be better to have him in something aerated as soon as possible. This tank had only one fish in it, but he was from a lake nearby. Perhaps I should have enquired into the species of fish, because Rojo didn't last the day. When I talked to the surrogate-owner this afternoon, I was told that the other fish had eaten Rojo partway through the day. The kids in that class, having heard the story of why he was in their tank, thought he had gotten what he deserved. I am inclined to agree that what goes around comes around, but I am still sad. As Mikey said, "I feel as though we failed him somehow." Perhaps if we had done an intervention...
Sunday, March 20, 2005
Photos with Isha
It's been awhile, but I once again have photos to share. Since I couldn't decide which to put up first, and the chances are good that I won't do it again for awhile, I am putting up several days worth right now. Enjoy!
While I was in MN, I got a chance to visit with a baby cousin. Here are his ADORABLE feet!
I told Mikey I wanted to grab something for dinner after my flight landed, "nothing fancy", so he packed a picnic meal (complete with homemade coleslaw!), and we ate by the bay. This was our view.
Since Rojo: Satanic Fish killed Jay Edgar, the fishtank has gotten very dirty. We finally decided to get a new pleco. (The internet superstition is that if you spell pleco out, the fish will die.) Since he will need algae to eat after he cleans the place up, we got some other new fish, too. Here, you can kinda see the two Platys (Sunrise and Sunset) and most, if not all, of the 6 Neon Tetras (currently called The Gang). Rojo immediately started tormenting the male Platy, so he has been banished to a bowl until I can find a student who would like to keep him. I will NOT allow him to kill any more fish.
This is what Bonzai thinks of the new fish.
There you have it - my life in photographs! :)
While I was in MN, I got a chance to visit with a baby cousin. Here are his ADORABLE feet!
I told Mikey I wanted to grab something for dinner after my flight landed, "nothing fancy", so he packed a picnic meal (complete with homemade coleslaw!), and we ate by the bay. This was our view.
Since Rojo: Satanic Fish killed Jay Edgar, the fishtank has gotten very dirty. We finally decided to get a new pleco. (The internet superstition is that if you spell pleco out, the fish will die.) Since he will need algae to eat after he cleans the place up, we got some other new fish, too. Here, you can kinda see the two Platys (Sunrise and Sunset) and most, if not all, of the 6 Neon Tetras (currently called The Gang). Rojo immediately started tormenting the male Platy, so he has been banished to a bowl until I can find a student who would like to keep him. I will NOT allow him to kill any more fish.
This is what Bonzai thinks of the new fish.
There you have it - my life in photographs! :)
Saturday, March 19, 2005
Lighter than Air
I sang along with every song.
I twirled on the way into the kitchen.
I laughed as we played a game.
"You are happy", he said.
I smiled back. "He doesn't hate me. I did the right thing."
I twirled on the way into the kitchen.
I laughed as we played a game.
"You are happy", he said.
I smiled back. "He doesn't hate me. I did the right thing."
Thankful
With my stomach tied in knots, I sent out an e-mail to my brother. Our last parting was tense, to say the least. We both said things that were hurtful - some intentionally, some not - and neither of us was at our best. I reached out today, terrified that I was going to find that he really didn't want to have anything further to do with me. Instead, a long letter that ended with:
"...Thank you for the help Solee. Talk to you
later.
Love,"
The relief is beyond words. Way, way beyond words.
"...Thank you for the help Solee. Talk to you
later.
Love,"
The relief is beyond words. Way, way beyond words.
Friday, March 18, 2005
"If it ain't one thing, it's another..."
"...or another, or another. The life I lead's in perfect harmony - out of key."
My daddy wrote this song when I was a kid. Back then, I just thought it was funny that my sister and I were mentioned (one of us couldn't find our clothes for school and the other was falling asleep in the oatmeal, can't remember which is which). Now, I understand a little bit of what was really being said. Fortunately, I have never had a very picky ear, so my out of key life is pretty much okay with me. It's when everything is being played in minor notes that I get upset.
Some of the off-key chords I've heard recently...
~ My students are doing an art project. They need to cut up construction paper and glue it down. I gave each them a zip-lock baggie to store their tiny construction squares. Silly me forgot to remind my 4th graders that it was unsafe to put plastic bags over their mouths, so when I turned around they were doing just that. I freaked out and gave a huge lecture about the dangers of such behavior and the importance of common sense. I told them that anyone with their baggie by their mouth would have to have an envelope instead so they couldn't hurt themselves. Two minutes later I turn around to see a boy with his bag over his mouth. Sometimes I worry about the fate of mankind, I really do.
~ We have made a contact with some friends of a friend in Mexico. Hopefully, they will be able to help us make this upcoming trip as authentic as possible.
~ I have a stack of papers to be entered into the computer that you wouldn't believe. And I don't care. Hmm. Spring Fever?
~ I have recently been gifted living things by two different people. A co-worker gave me a beautiful, red Peace Lily and my Daddy and his wife sent me a wonderful little zen garden complete with Zen grasses, sand, rocks and rake. I have to keep all at school for the time being because That Darn Cat won't leave any living thing alone. I think I will have to get him some cat grass.
I'm sure there is more, but I should be heading to school. I am quite pleased that it is Friday, except for the fact that I have lots of laundry, shopping, cleaning and errands to do this weekend. If it ain't one thing...it's another.
My daddy wrote this song when I was a kid. Back then, I just thought it was funny that my sister and I were mentioned (one of us couldn't find our clothes for school and the other was falling asleep in the oatmeal, can't remember which is which). Now, I understand a little bit of what was really being said. Fortunately, I have never had a very picky ear, so my out of key life is pretty much okay with me. It's when everything is being played in minor notes that I get upset.
Some of the off-key chords I've heard recently...
~ My students are doing an art project. They need to cut up construction paper and glue it down. I gave each them a zip-lock baggie to store their tiny construction squares. Silly me forgot to remind my 4th graders that it was unsafe to put plastic bags over their mouths, so when I turned around they were doing just that. I freaked out and gave a huge lecture about the dangers of such behavior and the importance of common sense. I told them that anyone with their baggie by their mouth would have to have an envelope instead so they couldn't hurt themselves. Two minutes later I turn around to see a boy with his bag over his mouth. Sometimes I worry about the fate of mankind, I really do.
~ We have made a contact with some friends of a friend in Mexico. Hopefully, they will be able to help us make this upcoming trip as authentic as possible.
~ I have a stack of papers to be entered into the computer that you wouldn't believe. And I don't care. Hmm. Spring Fever?
~ I have recently been gifted living things by two different people. A co-worker gave me a beautiful, red Peace Lily and my Daddy and his wife sent me a wonderful little zen garden complete with Zen grasses, sand, rocks and rake. I have to keep all at school for the time being because That Darn Cat won't leave any living thing alone. I think I will have to get him some cat grass.
I'm sure there is more, but I should be heading to school. I am quite pleased that it is Friday, except for the fact that I have lots of laundry, shopping, cleaning and errands to do this weekend. If it ain't one thing...it's another.
Wednesday, March 16, 2005
Time Flies
I am figuring it is about 5 days since I helped settle my bro into his temporary surroundings. I suppose I should call and find out what is happening, but I am afraid to know. Do I call or do I just wait for someone to fill me in? I dunno...
Monday, March 14, 2005
Back in the Saddle
Okay. So the chaos has once again been reined in (as best it can be) and I am back to the calm that is my daily life. We had a typical day at school, the kids were on their best, and it felt good to be doing what I do. Something for me to remember whenever I am trapped in a moment of madness - it always comes to an end eventually.
I have talked about my brother here before, and without going into too many details, I would ask that you all keep him in your thoughts and prayers. He is going to need as much support and love as can be sent his way in the upcoming weeks. I have done what I can and faced the consequences. The rest is out of my hands.
As far as my own mental health, which I will admit was suffering for a few days there, I am doing okay. I am not proud of some of the things I had to do in the last week, but I know that they needed to be done. I don't know that I will ever come to terms with making the ends justify the means (something I have never agreed with), but I do feel that my actions have saved a life. My brother was going to either harm himself or someone else (inadvertantly). I know I did the right thing. Dealing with the consequences of taking action can be quite a challenge though.
Fortunately, I have a very loving and supportive family. I can continue to give of myself for them because I know that it will be payed back with interest should I ever be in need. My father and my step-mother both took time from their schedules to help me through this past weekend. My daddy has expressed a concern and understanding that leaves no doubt of his commitment to my well-being. My mom, grandmas, aunts and uncles, siblings, husband, step-families - all have done everything in their power to share the weight of this load. I strive every day to be as giving and supportive as possible with all around me and it is these people who do the same for me that make it possible. I sit in awe of their generosity.
For those who have expressed concern for me - I am doing well. I know I don't sound like myself, but I am sorting things out and putting things in order. I suspect that I will be forever changed by this experience, and I am working to make sure that it will be a change for the better. I know it will be some time before I can talk about this whole situation without being very sad, but that, unfortunately, is how life is. I can deny it, or I can embrace it. I guess I'm just working out the best way to hug such a prickly package.
I have talked about my brother here before, and without going into too many details, I would ask that you all keep him in your thoughts and prayers. He is going to need as much support and love as can be sent his way in the upcoming weeks. I have done what I can and faced the consequences. The rest is out of my hands.
As far as my own mental health, which I will admit was suffering for a few days there, I am doing okay. I am not proud of some of the things I had to do in the last week, but I know that they needed to be done. I don't know that I will ever come to terms with making the ends justify the means (something I have never agreed with), but I do feel that my actions have saved a life. My brother was going to either harm himself or someone else (inadvertantly). I know I did the right thing. Dealing with the consequences of taking action can be quite a challenge though.
Fortunately, I have a very loving and supportive family. I can continue to give of myself for them because I know that it will be payed back with interest should I ever be in need. My father and my step-mother both took time from their schedules to help me through this past weekend. My daddy has expressed a concern and understanding that leaves no doubt of his commitment to my well-being. My mom, grandmas, aunts and uncles, siblings, husband, step-families - all have done everything in their power to share the weight of this load. I strive every day to be as giving and supportive as possible with all around me and it is these people who do the same for me that make it possible. I sit in awe of their generosity.
For those who have expressed concern for me - I am doing well. I know I don't sound like myself, but I am sorting things out and putting things in order. I suspect that I will be forever changed by this experience, and I am working to make sure that it will be a change for the better. I know it will be some time before I can talk about this whole situation without being very sad, but that, unfortunately, is how life is. I can deny it, or I can embrace it. I guess I'm just working out the best way to hug such a prickly package.
Wednesday, March 09, 2005
Dear Universe,
Thank you for this test of my flexability. Thank you for checking to see just how much I can balance on my cafeteria tray at once. Thank you for expecting so much of me and then adding more just when it looks like I might be able to handle it. Thank you for waiting until the last minute. Thank you for all of the chaos and frustration. It keeps me on my toes.
I have to run - gotta keep on top of this balancing thing, you know.
Sincerely,
Soleil
I have to run - gotta keep on top of this balancing thing, you know.
Sincerely,
Soleil
Tuesday, March 08, 2005
Too Much
*input trimester 2 scores
*write letter
*pack
*make sub plans
*put away supplies
*grade decimal quiz
*grade poetry book
*grade book clubs
*plan for next week
*complete paperwork
*contact district office
*call for sub
not enough hours in the day
*write letter
*pack
*make sub plans
*put away supplies
*grade decimal quiz
*grade poetry book
*grade book clubs
*plan for next week
*complete paperwork
*contact district office
*call for sub
not enough hours in the day
Visitors
An example of just how used to my daily routine I am? Tonight, when I arrived home, I thought I had somehow turned at the wrong street (even though there is no other street like this) and pulled into the wrong drive. Why? Because there was a car in our driveway. I'm not used to having a car in our driveway unless it is mine. Especially not ones with Nevada plates. So, after quickly checking and double checking that, yes, in fact, I am at the right house, I walked up to my door, wondering what was going on.
What a wonderful surprise - my aunt and uncle had stopped by on a Cabin Fever trip they were taking. They flew into Vegas and drove through the desert by way of Temecula on their way towards the ocean. We caught up over a yummy dinner at our favorite Indian restaurant (thanks again for dinner, you two!) and then gave them some suggestions on how to continue the trip.
I am absolutely thrilled to have family stop by for a visit. Usually, I only get to see family when I head home to MN, and those trips are always too hectic and too short. It was great to be the one to get visited. :)
What a wonderful surprise - my aunt and uncle had stopped by on a Cabin Fever trip they were taking. They flew into Vegas and drove through the desert by way of Temecula on their way towards the ocean. We caught up over a yummy dinner at our favorite Indian restaurant (thanks again for dinner, you two!) and then gave them some suggestions on how to continue the trip.
I am absolutely thrilled to have family stop by for a visit. Usually, I only get to see family when I head home to MN, and those trips are always too hectic and too short. It was great to be the one to get visited. :)
Monday, March 07, 2005
I get by with a little help from my friends...
I can't imagine what kind of a mess I would be on a regular basis if it weren't for the wonderful people who surround me. I go to work and people listen and sympathize and care. I come home to be surrounded by love. I talk with family members who do everything they can to help me. I am truly a blessed person. I am thankful for this every second of my life.
Sunday, March 06, 2005
Because of Winn Dixie
My pal, D, and I invited our students to meet us at the local theater to see Because of Winn Dixie this weekend. Together, we had about 8 kids show up, which was just fine with my migraine battling self. Although I was worried that the movie wouldn't hold up under the adoration I have for this book, my fears were unfounded. A splendid time was had by all.
I can't tell you how much I enjoyed this story. I first read the book last year, after ordering it through Scholastic book clubs. As soon as I finished reading it myself, I started reading it to my class. We were all sucked in by the perfect blend of reality and humor. The kids talked about it for the rest of the year, often referring back to different characters or events while reading other stories. They drew pictures of Winn Dixie and Gurtrude and Otis's jar of pickles.
One of the things I enjoyed most about the book (and they handled well in the movie) was the up front way that it dealt with difficult issues. Alcoholism, abandonment, loneliness, death - all are mentioned in an understanding, but hopeful way. These are issues that more and more kids face every year. I really liked having such a kid-friendly way to open and guide discussions about these things.
Anyway - I would highly recommend both the book and the movie. Share them with a kid you love. :)
I can't tell you how much I enjoyed this story. I first read the book last year, after ordering it through Scholastic book clubs. As soon as I finished reading it myself, I started reading it to my class. We were all sucked in by the perfect blend of reality and humor. The kids talked about it for the rest of the year, often referring back to different characters or events while reading other stories. They drew pictures of Winn Dixie and Gurtrude and Otis's jar of pickles.
One of the things I enjoyed most about the book (and they handled well in the movie) was the up front way that it dealt with difficult issues. Alcoholism, abandonment, loneliness, death - all are mentioned in an understanding, but hopeful way. These are issues that more and more kids face every year. I really liked having such a kid-friendly way to open and guide discussions about these things.
Anyway - I would highly recommend both the book and the movie. Share them with a kid you love. :)
Saturday, March 05, 2005
Bzz Bzz Bzz Bzz
The most horrifying thing happened while I was driving today. My friend C and I were headed home from a baby shower, deep in conversation, when suddenly I thought "What the heck is headed our way?" I had a fraction of a second to ponder the cloud hanging in front of us before it struck. It looked and sounded as though it had suddenly started to rain very hard for about 3 seconds and then all was still. Cindy looked at me and asked, "What was that??" As we gazed in bewilderment through the windshield, we noticed the remains of many mangled wasps resting on the wiper blades. It was at least 5 minutes, and a gallon of wiper fluid, before we recovered.
Wednesday, March 02, 2005
Visitor
My niece is in 1st grade. Her class is conducting a project where they send shadow tracings of themselves to friends and family with the hopes that they will have grand adventures and then return to school to tell about them. Flat Alexa arrived at my doorstep, suitcase in hand, two days ago. She has been an exemplary houseguest, although I would much prefer the real thing.
For her California adventures, FA took a trip to school yesterday. She had her picture taken with my whole class and made lots of new 4th grade friends. Today, she hung out at home while I worked, playing video games with Uncle Mikey. She also played with the cats. We took some pictures so she can show her friends back in MN how much fun she had.
FA has to be back to school by March 15, which leaves me wondering if I should risk sending her to someone else or just send her home. I think that I will call up my Grandma and see if she will be around for the next few days. I know that she would be sure to get her to the school on time.
I sure enjoyed having FA here. I just wish I could have the real Alexa here. I miss her bunches and I can't wait until she and her brother are old enough to travel by airplane on their own. They could come stay with me for a week in the summer and I wouldn't feel like they were growing up without me.
For her California adventures, FA took a trip to school yesterday. She had her picture taken with my whole class and made lots of new 4th grade friends. Today, she hung out at home while I worked, playing video games with Uncle Mikey. She also played with the cats. We took some pictures so she can show her friends back in MN how much fun she had.
FA has to be back to school by March 15, which leaves me wondering if I should risk sending her to someone else or just send her home. I think that I will call up my Grandma and see if she will be around for the next few days. I know that she would be sure to get her to the school on time.
I sure enjoyed having FA here. I just wish I could have the real Alexa here. I miss her bunches and I can't wait until she and her brother are old enough to travel by airplane on their own. They could come stay with me for a week in the summer and I wouldn't feel like they were growing up without me.
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