Apparently my blog updates are going to have to come a month apart. Who would have thought that working would interfere with all the free time I used to have?
The second six weeks is over and that means that Thanksgiving and Christmas breaks are right around the corner. I have decided that I do enjoy teaching and I love my kids, but only if I can keep my act together and stay organized. I was a total wreck last grading period and it is by the grace of God alone that I had my grades ready to go into the system today.
I really think that grades stink. I mean, the same kids will always do well and the same kids will always fail. So what is the point? I am actually a bit of a "softy" because I will try to help my kids pass. It amazes me how many of them just do not care to learn or work. Why are we forcing these kids to stay in school? The whole idea of each kid having the right to learn is bull crap. If a kid wants to drop out, let him/her. All s/he does in my class is disrupt it and distract the other students.
Seriously, teens are incredibly lazy and expect to be handed good grades for no work. They feel like they are owed a passing grade. Newsflash*In the "real world" you have to earn your keep. I blame the psychologist/parent/whoever that thought of the bright idea of rewarding all children for mediocrity. Oh sure, let's give everyone a medal and not just the winners. Yeah, like that really helps self-esteem. All this does is teach kids that they deserve top honors/rewards regardless of effort or ability and the students that do excel in certain areas stop trying because they know they will be judged at the same level as the rest. Parents should actually discover what their children are good at, uh-oh that means they have to spend time together, and then encourage and reward based on each individual child's strengths.
But enough of a lowly ole teacher's ideas about child raising. On to more entertaining stories about married life. . .Oh wait I don't have any. I absolutely love being married and my husband is my Prince Charming and then some, but the most exciting thing around here lately is the big screen television he bought weeks ago. Naturally that meant we had to get a new television stand and that lead to new shelves for DVDs and videos. Of course we didn't want to waste our money on anything nice so plastic shelves from Target did the trick.
Now the best news is that a Kohl's department store is being built 1 1/2 minutes down the road! Everyday when I drive to and from work I check on their progress. I am hoping it will be complete in time for Christmas.
Speaking of Christmas, I already purchased beautiful Christmas cards and my mom is helping me find a little tree to put up in my new condo. I'm not sure what is going on my list just yet, but I know it will be good.
By the way, I'm officially 25 years old and my husband is 36. That's right our birthdays are two weeks apart and we are all caked out. I did receive an autographed picture of Jim Henson and the Muppets, a string of pearls, a shopping spree, Dallas Stars tickets, and a picture with the Stanley Cup. Not bad for a quarter of a century old.
Well, that is all for now. I have to take a shower and go to bed.
Monday, November 07, 2005
Tuesday, October 04, 2005
My Wedding
Hello out there to all my friends that survived the tumultuous weather that recently bombarded Texas. I closed my old email account and opened a new one. I sent one last message to my peeps so please reply so I can add you into my new address book.
I am officially a Mrs. and not a Ms. I went to the DPS and Social Security offices yesterday, but more on that later.
I have been asked if my wedding day was everything I had hoped it would be. Well, the only thing that would have made it perfect would have been if all my loved ones were able to make it. I understand that somethings are just out of our control, but I know that they would have been there if possible.
I woke up and the first thing on the list was pedicures and manicures. My mom made a delicious breakfast for my bridal party and after stuffing ourselves with egg and sausage tacos, we piled into a couple of cars and headed to Beautiful Nails. We completely monopolized the salon, we had made an appointment, and for the next couple of hours we were pampered in massaging chairs. The highlight was when my father showed up for his own manicure because he would be shaking so many hands. It took zero convincing from we women folk for him to have a pedicure. Our neighbor walked in to pick up his daughter, she was hanging out with us, and he totally busted my dad while he was sitting with his feet in the water. Needless to say, a camera phone insured our neighbor some blackmail material against my father:).
At 1:00 P.M. we returned home so that my cousin could begin working diligently on our hair. Of course I wanted to go first, I just to have my hair fixed up. After setting the tiara and veil I just had to wait for my make-up. My two bridesmaids and my maid of honor looked absolutely stunning after my cousin finished with their hair. I even made matching haircombs to put in their hair. At 3:30 P.M. my Mary Kay lady came over to do make-up. I watched as she meticulously adorned my wedding party and finally my face. We were all picture perfect.
The limo showed up at 5:30 P.M. on time and we began to load up to leave for the church at 5:50 P.M. Then came the first hiccup: The limo would not start once we were all inside and ready to head to the ceremony. Twenty minutes later, we loaded up one of my bridesmaid's SUV and I was only fifteen minutes late getting to the church. That was one for the memory books.
The ceremony went off without a hitch, or with a "hitch" if you are from the south.;) I was getting a bit sick of photographs by the end and didn't know if I would make it through the reception.
We did get to the reception only 45 minutes later. . .The food was delicious! There was some little finger foods, but then we had a pasta bar! It was so good that I was mad when I had to stop eating because my dress would expand and make room.:) The second hiccup occurred when the DJ cut off the first dance song too early and $165 worth of dance lessons went down the drain. The final hiccup was when my husband got ticked at the photographer and we almost had a throw down by the cakes. Other than that, everything was the wedding I had hoped for:).
I must be going for now, but I will return soon.
I am officially a Mrs. and not a Ms. I went to the DPS and Social Security offices yesterday, but more on that later.
I have been asked if my wedding day was everything I had hoped it would be. Well, the only thing that would have made it perfect would have been if all my loved ones were able to make it. I understand that somethings are just out of our control, but I know that they would have been there if possible.
I woke up and the first thing on the list was pedicures and manicures. My mom made a delicious breakfast for my bridal party and after stuffing ourselves with egg and sausage tacos, we piled into a couple of cars and headed to Beautiful Nails. We completely monopolized the salon, we had made an appointment, and for the next couple of hours we were pampered in massaging chairs. The highlight was when my father showed up for his own manicure because he would be shaking so many hands. It took zero convincing from we women folk for him to have a pedicure. Our neighbor walked in to pick up his daughter, she was hanging out with us, and he totally busted my dad while he was sitting with his feet in the water. Needless to say, a camera phone insured our neighbor some blackmail material against my father:).
At 1:00 P.M. we returned home so that my cousin could begin working diligently on our hair. Of course I wanted to go first, I just to have my hair fixed up. After setting the tiara and veil I just had to wait for my make-up. My two bridesmaids and my maid of honor looked absolutely stunning after my cousin finished with their hair. I even made matching haircombs to put in their hair. At 3:30 P.M. my Mary Kay lady came over to do make-up. I watched as she meticulously adorned my wedding party and finally my face. We were all picture perfect.
The limo showed up at 5:30 P.M. on time and we began to load up to leave for the church at 5:50 P.M. Then came the first hiccup: The limo would not start once we were all inside and ready to head to the ceremony. Twenty minutes later, we loaded up one of my bridesmaid's SUV and I was only fifteen minutes late getting to the church. That was one for the memory books.
The ceremony went off without a hitch, or with a "hitch" if you are from the south.;) I was getting a bit sick of photographs by the end and didn't know if I would make it through the reception.
We did get to the reception only 45 minutes later. . .The food was delicious! There was some little finger foods, but then we had a pasta bar! It was so good that I was mad when I had to stop eating because my dress would expand and make room.:) The second hiccup occurred when the DJ cut off the first dance song too early and $165 worth of dance lessons went down the drain. The final hiccup was when my husband got ticked at the photographer and we almost had a throw down by the cakes. Other than that, everything was the wedding I had hoped for:).
I must be going for now, but I will return soon.
Monday, September 12, 2005
12 Days and counting!
Have I mentioned how much I love my job? I absolutely adore my students and I am excited at the potential I know they have inside. The problem is that someone started underestimating them and now they don't believe they can do the work, or just don't want to because they had a teacher doing it for them.
I'm going to begin planning for the next six weeks and I am very interested in seeing how my students respond to Frankenstein and Night, the two books we are reading next six weeks. The best part is that my students are benchmark testing the two days I will be out of town so my sub does not have to work hard.
Homecoming is also this week and I am ready. I made me a little mini-mum to wear on Friday. I know I will face teasing and stuff like that, but I don't care. I am proud to be teaching at my old high school and I will be at the game ready to win.
Enough of work. . .On to the wedding! We paid off the pictures, cakes, flowers, and rings this past weekend. Talk about a feeling of accomplishment. I have to drop off my engagement ring tomorrow so that my band can be attached to it, and I am not excited about not having my ring for two weeks. I guess it will be kind of cool because I will be seeing it for the "first time" again on the wedding day.
I also picked up my bridal portraits this weekend and they are gorgeous! I know very few people that do not enjoy having pictures taken. It was cool to have all my hair done and make up on and the entire dress and veil.
My fiance and I finished our dance lessons so now we only need to practice, practice, practice. I am looking forward to the reaction from everyone at the reception when we finish dancing. My fiance was cracking me up when we worked on the presentation at the end of the song. It it nice to know that my fiance loves me enough to take the dance lessons so we look great at our reception.
In one more hour we'll be at 11 days to the wedding! 9 days to the season premiere of Lost! (I'm not more excited about this than the wedding, but you know. . .)
I'm going to begin planning for the next six weeks and I am very interested in seeing how my students respond to Frankenstein and Night, the two books we are reading next six weeks. The best part is that my students are benchmark testing the two days I will be out of town so my sub does not have to work hard.
Homecoming is also this week and I am ready. I made me a little mini-mum to wear on Friday. I know I will face teasing and stuff like that, but I don't care. I am proud to be teaching at my old high school and I will be at the game ready to win.
Enough of work. . .On to the wedding! We paid off the pictures, cakes, flowers, and rings this past weekend. Talk about a feeling of accomplishment. I have to drop off my engagement ring tomorrow so that my band can be attached to it, and I am not excited about not having my ring for two weeks. I guess it will be kind of cool because I will be seeing it for the "first time" again on the wedding day.
I also picked up my bridal portraits this weekend and they are gorgeous! I know very few people that do not enjoy having pictures taken. It was cool to have all my hair done and make up on and the entire dress and veil.
My fiance and I finished our dance lessons so now we only need to practice, practice, practice. I am looking forward to the reaction from everyone at the reception when we finish dancing. My fiance was cracking me up when we worked on the presentation at the end of the song. It it nice to know that my fiance loves me enough to take the dance lessons so we look great at our reception.
In one more hour we'll be at 11 days to the wedding! 9 days to the season premiere of Lost! (I'm not more excited about this than the wedding, but you know. . .)
Monday, September 05, 2005
And I have risen from the dead!
Salutations. . .It has been a whole month since I last graced the computer screen with my words of wonder and awe.
So many things have happened within these past few weeks. I think starting globally and moving in to more detailed accounts of my life is how I will do this. Hang in there if you are irritated or bored, I will get interesting eventually.
Hurricane Katrina completely demolished the city of New Orleans. There are a lot of mixed feelings about the thousands of people left in the ruins. Let me just say that I did make a donation to the Red Cross (www.redcross.org 1-800-HELP-NOW) and it truly is a horrible thing to have happen. However, my sympathy for a majority of these people has left about 85% of me. The news media has finally numbed me to the plight of the many still seeking aid. Yes, this is bad and yes, we should all do what we can, but were they not told to leave? Some would say that they had no choice, but there is always a choice. Choosing to live below sea level between a lake and a river. . .think about that. This is also not the first time a hurricane has desecrated that city. Some one surely had to think, "how safe is this city if it were to be flooded?" My fiance had a fantastic point about the corruption of the government in that city. When emergency funds are being "stored" in the pockets of city officials, what is supposed to be used to fix a situation like this? I am a firm believer that a person can be smart, but people are stupid. Even if I were inclined to drive there to help, I could not get in and I would be mobbed and possibly killed by those desperate for help. I do pray that we can come together as a nation and help, but that is all I will do for now. People help in different ways and that is great.
Narrowing topics. . .I saw a new movie! The Brothers Grimm stars the handsome Matt Damon and Heath Ledger. I enjoyed the weirdness of the film. My sister appreciated the references to the wonderful political statements that were unjustly labeled as children's stories. My fiance didn't like it at all. This is a renter or wait till it goes to cable. The love story was ambiguous and I definitely think that Heath Ledger should have gotten the girl. This one only gets 1 out of 5 hearts.
To the point. . .19 days and I will officially go from Ms. to Mrs.! The best advice I could give to anyone is ELOPE! Don't ever convince yourself that it is about the bride, because it isn't! It is about pleasing the loudest most complaining members of the family. Being a bride means that you just get to wear the best dress. When I try to stand up for what I want I am dictated to and reprimanded for being so selfish. When I do get what I want I am shamed for making whatever choice I made. I mean, how silly that I should want the wedding my way. I found out today that the second most important person in the wedding is my mother, she told me so herself. Hmmm. . .So where does that put my fiance? I know my mother only wants the best for me, but I would think she would realize that only I know what is best for me. I'm not a child any more.
With that said, I am very excited about being married. The wedding is just an event, but my marriage will be a lifetime of fun and happiness.
Side note* The other fabulous thing about the week of my wedding. . .Lost is premiering its new season on the Wednesday before the wedding!!! I am already dreaming of the things that may happen. I have a hankerin' for some Sawyer! September is going to be a great month.
Well I'm peacing out.
So many things have happened within these past few weeks. I think starting globally and moving in to more detailed accounts of my life is how I will do this. Hang in there if you are irritated or bored, I will get interesting eventually.
Hurricane Katrina completely demolished the city of New Orleans. There are a lot of mixed feelings about the thousands of people left in the ruins. Let me just say that I did make a donation to the Red Cross (www.redcross.org 1-800-HELP-NOW) and it truly is a horrible thing to have happen. However, my sympathy for a majority of these people has left about 85% of me. The news media has finally numbed me to the plight of the many still seeking aid. Yes, this is bad and yes, we should all do what we can, but were they not told to leave? Some would say that they had no choice, but there is always a choice. Choosing to live below sea level between a lake and a river. . .think about that. This is also not the first time a hurricane has desecrated that city. Some one surely had to think, "how safe is this city if it were to be flooded?" My fiance had a fantastic point about the corruption of the government in that city. When emergency funds are being "stored" in the pockets of city officials, what is supposed to be used to fix a situation like this? I am a firm believer that a person can be smart, but people are stupid. Even if I were inclined to drive there to help, I could not get in and I would be mobbed and possibly killed by those desperate for help. I do pray that we can come together as a nation and help, but that is all I will do for now. People help in different ways and that is great.
Narrowing topics. . .I saw a new movie! The Brothers Grimm stars the handsome Matt Damon and Heath Ledger. I enjoyed the weirdness of the film. My sister appreciated the references to the wonderful political statements that were unjustly labeled as children's stories. My fiance didn't like it at all. This is a renter or wait till it goes to cable. The love story was ambiguous and I definitely think that Heath Ledger should have gotten the girl. This one only gets 1 out of 5 hearts.
To the point. . .19 days and I will officially go from Ms. to Mrs.! The best advice I could give to anyone is ELOPE! Don't ever convince yourself that it is about the bride, because it isn't! It is about pleasing the loudest most complaining members of the family. Being a bride means that you just get to wear the best dress. When I try to stand up for what I want I am dictated to and reprimanded for being so selfish. When I do get what I want I am shamed for making whatever choice I made. I mean, how silly that I should want the wedding my way. I found out today that the second most important person in the wedding is my mother, she told me so herself. Hmmm. . .So where does that put my fiance? I know my mother only wants the best for me, but I would think she would realize that only I know what is best for me. I'm not a child any more.
With that said, I am very excited about being married. The wedding is just an event, but my marriage will be a lifetime of fun and happiness.
Side note* The other fabulous thing about the week of my wedding. . .Lost is premiering its new season on the Wednesday before the wedding!!! I am already dreaming of the things that may happen. I have a hankerin' for some Sawyer! September is going to be a great month.
Well I'm peacing out.
Tuesday, August 09, 2005
Workin' for the Man
Hello out there to anyone who missed me!
I am back at work so I have been dropping dead every night before 10 P.M. So much is going on and I would love to share, but my brain is already losing some of the fun stuff. I am very excited to be at North and getting ready to teach again. As depressing as it can be, seeing the school year approach at such a rapid rate, I am anxious to see my students and get to teaching! I know the days will fly by and my wedding will finally be here. I believe I am down to 45 days!
As far as my colleagues go, there are many I could definitely do without. I would love to be able to put school spirit back into that high school. I realized that when many of my teachers were moved to open the new high school about six years ago, the heart and soul was removed from my old high school. I am praying that maybe with all the new and young faces that school spirit may be rejuvenated.
I also thought that it would be better to have a working team putting together lesson plans, but I understand why so many people go out on their own. I have so many fun ideas, but they get shot down so quickly by the negative attitudes that surround me. Perhaps they ideas have been tried before, but I don't think it would hurt to try. If my co-workers only new how good they have it, or how lucky they are to have the supplies and support they do, then maybe they would quit their complaining.
Nothing is going to bring me down! I love where I am in my life right now, and I refuse to be miserable like I was last year.
I am back at work so I have been dropping dead every night before 10 P.M. So much is going on and I would love to share, but my brain is already losing some of the fun stuff. I am very excited to be at North and getting ready to teach again. As depressing as it can be, seeing the school year approach at such a rapid rate, I am anxious to see my students and get to teaching! I know the days will fly by and my wedding will finally be here. I believe I am down to 45 days!
As far as my colleagues go, there are many I could definitely do without. I would love to be able to put school spirit back into that high school. I realized that when many of my teachers were moved to open the new high school about six years ago, the heart and soul was removed from my old high school. I am praying that maybe with all the new and young faces that school spirit may be rejuvenated.
I also thought that it would be better to have a working team putting together lesson plans, but I understand why so many people go out on their own. I have so many fun ideas, but they get shot down so quickly by the negative attitudes that surround me. Perhaps they ideas have been tried before, but I don't think it would hurt to try. If my co-workers only new how good they have it, or how lucky they are to have the supplies and support they do, then maybe they would quit their complaining.
Nothing is going to bring me down! I love where I am in my life right now, and I refuse to be miserable like I was last year.
Monday, August 01, 2005
I'm back and better than ever!
Whew! These past few days have been exhausting. Saturday morning was spent purchasing flower girl dresses. One of the cutest things in the world is putting little white dresses on four year olds. My cousins were absolutely adorable spinning and modeling in their dresses. We also found small tiaras for them to wear and they referred to themselves as Kendellrella and Katierella.
We also found the jewelry for my attendants and myself. After a couple of cookie sandwiches and a few rotations on the mall's carousel, we met my fiance and his mother at Steak 'n Shake for lunch. Oh my goodness! I sure do love a double original and a side-by-side banana/chocolate shake. We ate, froze a little in the well air conditioned restaurant, and piled back in our cars to go home.
Saturday afternoon was spent cleaning up and decorating my classroom. My friend, Jess, and her mother, Gay, are the most wonderful teachers/people I know! They spent four and a half hours helping me salvage my room so that it is inviting to students. I LOVE MY CLASSROOM! Jess and Gay helped me put up four bulletin boards, take down adhesive stuck to the ceilings and walls, and rearrange my desks into a great set up. Gay is even making me new curtains for my window. Now that my room is finished, I can actually spend my teacher prep day working on lesson plans!
I went home and hopped in the shower to get prettied up for a party at a friend's apartment. Not to sound conceited, but I looked fantastic! I was actually hit on at the QuickieMart when my fiance was getting beer. I just laughed because the guy actually pointed at me and winked. I guess it takes all kinds. My fiance was a little shocked at the guy's gall.
The party was more than entertaining. The host had an eclectic group of friends that all showed up. Unfortunately my fiance and I rarely drink so after three drinks we were buzzin' pretty well and had to go home. I was pretty miserable the next morning, but it wasn't anything that a couple of Tylenol couldn't fix. I was ready for church and so began my Sunday.
I loved Mass and the joke that the Deacon told during the Homily. I don't think the entire congregation got it though so there was very little laughter. We had lunch with my cousins and my fiance met with us. We were even able to spend some time with my sister. Her job let her off for a while. I ran a few errands Sunday night and went to a cook out at my cousins that night.
Today was my official first day back to work and it was wonderful! Everyone needs to look up "Love and Logic" and how to use it while raising children. Many of the strategies can be applied to the classroom. It was a wonderful staff development. I am very excited about Fish Camp tomorrow at North Mesquite! I need my sleep.
We also found the jewelry for my attendants and myself. After a couple of cookie sandwiches and a few rotations on the mall's carousel, we met my fiance and his mother at Steak 'n Shake for lunch. Oh my goodness! I sure do love a double original and a side-by-side banana/chocolate shake. We ate, froze a little in the well air conditioned restaurant, and piled back in our cars to go home.
Saturday afternoon was spent cleaning up and decorating my classroom. My friend, Jess, and her mother, Gay, are the most wonderful teachers/people I know! They spent four and a half hours helping me salvage my room so that it is inviting to students. I LOVE MY CLASSROOM! Jess and Gay helped me put up four bulletin boards, take down adhesive stuck to the ceilings and walls, and rearrange my desks into a great set up. Gay is even making me new curtains for my window. Now that my room is finished, I can actually spend my teacher prep day working on lesson plans!
I went home and hopped in the shower to get prettied up for a party at a friend's apartment. Not to sound conceited, but I looked fantastic! I was actually hit on at the QuickieMart when my fiance was getting beer. I just laughed because the guy actually pointed at me and winked. I guess it takes all kinds. My fiance was a little shocked at the guy's gall.
The party was more than entertaining. The host had an eclectic group of friends that all showed up. Unfortunately my fiance and I rarely drink so after three drinks we were buzzin' pretty well and had to go home. I was pretty miserable the next morning, but it wasn't anything that a couple of Tylenol couldn't fix. I was ready for church and so began my Sunday.
I loved Mass and the joke that the Deacon told during the Homily. I don't think the entire congregation got it though so there was very little laughter. We had lunch with my cousins and my fiance met with us. We were even able to spend some time with my sister. Her job let her off for a while. I ran a few errands Sunday night and went to a cook out at my cousins that night.
Today was my official first day back to work and it was wonderful! Everyone needs to look up "Love and Logic" and how to use it while raising children. Many of the strategies can be applied to the classroom. It was a wonderful staff development. I am very excited about Fish Camp tomorrow at North Mesquite! I need my sleep.
Saturday, July 30, 2005
Payday
Of course I was paid today and after paying bills, I am officially broke again for the next three weeks.
I had an early morning with my friend, Jess, as we prepared for another whirlwind adventure in planning our school years. We had a mission before us and we accomplished it with great finesse. I needed to redecorated the walls in my class room, but I was drawing blanks when it came to ideas. I knew that my friend would fix the problem, and she did! I will have four bulletin boards instead of one and there will be some color in my room. The list had us going to Mardel for some border and supplies, JoAnn for fabrics for the backgrounds, and Office Depot for crates to put journals in this year. After a good lunch at Appleby's we visited Jess's mom at her school and she helped me come up with some good planning ideas for this year.
The afternoon was a little more cramped because I was to meet my fiance at 4 o'clock for a movie. We managed to put up two of the bulletin boards and I brought home a lot of planning stuff since I won't be able to get into my room until the end of next week. We also decided that we will have to go back tomorrow to clean out all of the Latin stuff that is still in there. I am so thankful that I have a friend that can turn a cruddy looking room into something fantastic. It is like having my own makeover show.
At 4:30 I saw Wedding Crashers and of course here comes the review:
WARNING: This film IS a chick flick. Fellas do not go expecting random comedy like Anchorman or Dodgeball. This is about romance between two characters under a false pretense, the truth is discovered and feelings are hurt, and finally things must be made right so that they end up together in the final scene.
I think my fiance was a bit disappointed in all the hype the movie received and did not enjoy it as much as I did, the Queen of Romantic Comedies. Owen Wilson was his natural adorable self, but the real credit for making this movie great goes to Vince Vaughn. He was the funniest character, with the best lines and perfect timing. What that man can convey in facial expressions is amazing.
The movie met all Romantic Comedy requirements and even though there was a bit of nudity, it really was not as offensive as the creators had painted it to be. Rachel McAdams puts in another wonderful performance, this time as a brunette, and of course the ending is a happy one. I was in a pretty good mood when I left the theater so it gets 3 out of 5 hearts.
My other friend, Alisha came in tonight to spend the night and we stayed up way too late. I actually should be sleeping since I must get up in seven hours to run errands.
I had an early morning with my friend, Jess, as we prepared for another whirlwind adventure in planning our school years. We had a mission before us and we accomplished it with great finesse. I needed to redecorated the walls in my class room, but I was drawing blanks when it came to ideas. I knew that my friend would fix the problem, and she did! I will have four bulletin boards instead of one and there will be some color in my room. The list had us going to Mardel for some border and supplies, JoAnn for fabrics for the backgrounds, and Office Depot for crates to put journals in this year. After a good lunch at Appleby's we visited Jess's mom at her school and she helped me come up with some good planning ideas for this year.
The afternoon was a little more cramped because I was to meet my fiance at 4 o'clock for a movie. We managed to put up two of the bulletin boards and I brought home a lot of planning stuff since I won't be able to get into my room until the end of next week. We also decided that we will have to go back tomorrow to clean out all of the Latin stuff that is still in there. I am so thankful that I have a friend that can turn a cruddy looking room into something fantastic. It is like having my own makeover show.
At 4:30 I saw Wedding Crashers and of course here comes the review:
WARNING: This film IS a chick flick. Fellas do not go expecting random comedy like Anchorman or Dodgeball. This is about romance between two characters under a false pretense, the truth is discovered and feelings are hurt, and finally things must be made right so that they end up together in the final scene.
I think my fiance was a bit disappointed in all the hype the movie received and did not enjoy it as much as I did, the Queen of Romantic Comedies. Owen Wilson was his natural adorable self, but the real credit for making this movie great goes to Vince Vaughn. He was the funniest character, with the best lines and perfect timing. What that man can convey in facial expressions is amazing.
The movie met all Romantic Comedy requirements and even though there was a bit of nudity, it really was not as offensive as the creators had painted it to be. Rachel McAdams puts in another wonderful performance, this time as a brunette, and of course the ending is a happy one. I was in a pretty good mood when I left the theater so it gets 3 out of 5 hearts.
My other friend, Alisha came in tonight to spend the night and we stayed up way too late. I actually should be sleeping since I must get up in seven hours to run errands.
Thursday, July 28, 2005
Intolerable Cruelty
I had a pretty good day, but for some reason I really just have the urge to go to sleep. I will try and keep this as short as possible.
I had another meeting today with some more colleagues and I really wish I had all six sections of sophomore English. I am over frustrated that I will not be able to get into my room until the 8th of August because the janitorial staff has not cleaned the floors yet.
I am glad that I will be getting paid within the next two hours so I can get supplies for my classroom.
I did see a movie and therefore I have a review for Intolerable Cruelty:
Very funny. Love Clooney and Zeta-Jones. No real point. Still a fun film and gets 2 out of 5 hearts.
I need to get my organizer ready for the school year since I actually have things to write down now. 58 days and counting to the big day!
I had another meeting today with some more colleagues and I really wish I had all six sections of sophomore English. I am over frustrated that I will not be able to get into my room until the 8th of August because the janitorial staff has not cleaned the floors yet.
I am glad that I will be getting paid within the next two hours so I can get supplies for my classroom.
I did see a movie and therefore I have a review for Intolerable Cruelty:
Very funny. Love Clooney and Zeta-Jones. No real point. Still a fun film and gets 2 out of 5 hearts.
I need to get my organizer ready for the school year since I actually have things to write down now. 58 days and counting to the big day!
A Taco and Hamburger in One!
Okay, so I was told I would teach 6 sections of Freshman English, then I was told I would have 2 sections of Freshman English and 4 sections of Sophomore English, and as of 2:00 P.M. today I am teaching 4 sections of Freshman English and 2 sections of sophomore English. This is just really confusing the heck out of my co-workers and me. I'll be glad when everything is set in stone and I can go on with my lesson planning. I am also frustrated because the janitors have yet to clean the floor that my room is on so I cannot move into it just yet. I really am getting anxious because I do not want to be trying to cram everything in at the last minute.
Enough talk of work, I still have four days of summer left.
My fiance and I had dinner at a place called TinStar. OH MY GOODNESS! Talk about super duper yummy delicious! They serve everything in flour tortillas. It is kind of an upscale fast food place. I ordered the bacon cheeseburger taco with fries and my fiance got a fish taco and a potato, bacon, and egg taco. The genius that combined burgers and tacos should forever more be revered as a fast food god. I ate every single bite of my food. I could not help myself. I knew as the last few bites were going down that there was a good chance I would see them again, but I did not care. It was absolute heaven to eat there and I told my fiance that this needs to go into our permanent rotation of places to eat.
We walked around the corner after dinner to meet some colleagues of my fiance at a bar. It wasn't really a bar because it only served different types of beers. Actually I know that this kind of place has a particular name, but I am too tired to think of it right now. Anyway, I refrained because I am not a beer fan at all. I admit it, I am a girlie drink drinker. I need it to taste fruity, be frozen, or the color pink to be happy. The day someone invents a beer that meets these requirements, he too will be revered as the hamburger/taco man is in my mind. We were social for about an hour and then decided to go back to my fiance's and spend some quality time. This actually meant that we watched poker on television while my fiance played with my hair. Sounds silly I know, but it is definitely an incentive to keep my hair long. Of course my fiance heard the online poker calling his name and that was that.
I need to mention an incident that occurred earlier this week that completely slipped my mind. I was in the drive through at CVS. As the pharmacist was retrieving my prescriptions I began to hear Paula Abdul's "Straight Up" coming from the car behind me. It was kind of muffled because all the other vehicle's windows were up, but I heard every word and felt the base vibrate my car. I had to see who this avid fan appeared to be, so I look in my rearview mirror and. . .
It was a guy in his early 20s driving a huge, white Ford F150 with no girl in the passenger seat and no one else in the truck.
Knowing what I know about the types of guys that own trucks in Texas, many questions quickly arose and I had to giggle to myself. It was like hearing Terror Squad's "Lean Back" would have even been a more appropriate thing to blare in a truck that size. I guess a Paula fan is a fan for life.
Enough talk of work, I still have four days of summer left.
My fiance and I had dinner at a place called TinStar. OH MY GOODNESS! Talk about super duper yummy delicious! They serve everything in flour tortillas. It is kind of an upscale fast food place. I ordered the bacon cheeseburger taco with fries and my fiance got a fish taco and a potato, bacon, and egg taco. The genius that combined burgers and tacos should forever more be revered as a fast food god. I ate every single bite of my food. I could not help myself. I knew as the last few bites were going down that there was a good chance I would see them again, but I did not care. It was absolute heaven to eat there and I told my fiance that this needs to go into our permanent rotation of places to eat.
We walked around the corner after dinner to meet some colleagues of my fiance at a bar. It wasn't really a bar because it only served different types of beers. Actually I know that this kind of place has a particular name, but I am too tired to think of it right now. Anyway, I refrained because I am not a beer fan at all. I admit it, I am a girlie drink drinker. I need it to taste fruity, be frozen, or the color pink to be happy. The day someone invents a beer that meets these requirements, he too will be revered as the hamburger/taco man is in my mind. We were social for about an hour and then decided to go back to my fiance's and spend some quality time. This actually meant that we watched poker on television while my fiance played with my hair. Sounds silly I know, but it is definitely an incentive to keep my hair long. Of course my fiance heard the online poker calling his name and that was that.
I need to mention an incident that occurred earlier this week that completely slipped my mind. I was in the drive through at CVS. As the pharmacist was retrieving my prescriptions I began to hear Paula Abdul's "Straight Up" coming from the car behind me. It was kind of muffled because all the other vehicle's windows were up, but I heard every word and felt the base vibrate my car. I had to see who this avid fan appeared to be, so I look in my rearview mirror and. . .
It was a guy in his early 20s driving a huge, white Ford F150 with no girl in the passenger seat and no one else in the truck.
Knowing what I know about the types of guys that own trucks in Texas, many questions quickly arose and I had to giggle to myself. It was like hearing Terror Squad's "Lean Back" would have even been a more appropriate thing to blare in a truck that size. I guess a Paula fan is a fan for life.
Wednesday, July 27, 2005
Books and Lube
For some reason I had it stuck in my head that today was Wednesday. Thank goodness it was only Tuesday so that next week stays further away. I cannot believe I go back to work on Monday. So much for summer vacation.
I went to the library and renewed a book, Once and Future King. It has been on my list of "To Read" for a while. I also went shopping today and spent no money. No I was not utilizing the ole "five finger discount." A great friend of mine gave me a $40 gift certificate to Kohl's. After that I headed out to Lewisville for a "girlie" party.
There are so many companies that do this kind of stuff. I have attended a "Slumber Parties" Party (www.slumberparties.com), and I was told that this one would be a "Passions" Party (www.passionparties.com), but it turned out that this was a "Pure Romance" Party (www.pureromance.com).
I'm not some kind of crazed sex seeker or anything, but I am always amused at the reactions of other participants at the party. There are usually games involving cards with naked men on them, or large versions of male body parts, and definitely "do-it-yourself" kinds of devices. I really have no need for any of the novelty things, but I occasionally find body glitter that looks pretty when I wear halter or tank tops. The most interesting moments are when the really modest or shy girls are holding the products in their hands and turning bright red.
I was robbed of this entertainment because most of the women at the party were over verbal about their sex lives. It was almost embarrassing to listen to them so boldly go into detail about their fave products. Oh well, each to her own I guess.
I was able to spend a little time with my sweetheart as he droned away at his online poker game. I must admit, I enjoyed him a thousand times more when he had cancelled all his online accounts.
Before I go to bed I must correct an injustice. I have been meaning to rave about a new CD I received from my friend, Jess. She made me a relaxation CD that I absolutely LOVE! I listen to it as I fall asleep and I listen to it in the car and anywhere else I can. Thank You for my great CD Jessica!
I went to the library and renewed a book, Once and Future King. It has been on my list of "To Read" for a while. I also went shopping today and spent no money. No I was not utilizing the ole "five finger discount." A great friend of mine gave me a $40 gift certificate to Kohl's. After that I headed out to Lewisville for a "girlie" party.
There are so many companies that do this kind of stuff. I have attended a "Slumber Parties" Party (www.slumberparties.com), and I was told that this one would be a "Passions" Party (www.passionparties.com), but it turned out that this was a "Pure Romance" Party (www.pureromance.com).
I'm not some kind of crazed sex seeker or anything, but I am always amused at the reactions of other participants at the party. There are usually games involving cards with naked men on them, or large versions of male body parts, and definitely "do-it-yourself" kinds of devices. I really have no need for any of the novelty things, but I occasionally find body glitter that looks pretty when I wear halter or tank tops. The most interesting moments are when the really modest or shy girls are holding the products in their hands and turning bright red.
I was robbed of this entertainment because most of the women at the party were over verbal about their sex lives. It was almost embarrassing to listen to them so boldly go into detail about their fave products. Oh well, each to her own I guess.
I was able to spend a little time with my sweetheart as he droned away at his online poker game. I must admit, I enjoyed him a thousand times more when he had cancelled all his online accounts.
Before I go to bed I must correct an injustice. I have been meaning to rave about a new CD I received from my friend, Jess. She made me a relaxation CD that I absolutely LOVE! I listen to it as I fall asleep and I listen to it in the car and anywhere else I can. Thank You for my great CD Jessica!
Monday, July 25, 2005
An Outbreak of Late Pizza
I jumped ahead of the gun yesterday by writing so early in the evening. I was watching Pizza My Heart and in the middle of the movie I decided I wanted a simple cheese pizza. So at 9:17 P.M. I called Pizza Hut and they told me my pizza would be delivered in 45 minutes. At 10:30 I was still pizza-less and on the phone with six different customer service reps. I finally had to go and get my pizza at 11:15 at night. You better believe it was free!
Today was pretty busy. I went up to the school and started to arrange my room and found all my books and materials. I cannot wait until it is decorated and I can work on my notes. I really cannot wait until Friday when I get paid and can afford to get my supplies.
I had an appointment at the dermatologist today. I had an outbreak of a rash around the lower half of my face. Apparently it can be one of two things so I have three different medications and I had to buy organic toothpaste and a new toothbrush. ORGANIC TOOTHPASTE IS NASTY! It looks like I will be gagging this entire next month while I have to use it.
I really want to write more, but my head is starting to kill me.
Today was pretty busy. I went up to the school and started to arrange my room and found all my books and materials. I cannot wait until it is decorated and I can work on my notes. I really cannot wait until Friday when I get paid and can afford to get my supplies.
I had an appointment at the dermatologist today. I had an outbreak of a rash around the lower half of my face. Apparently it can be one of two things so I have three different medications and I had to buy organic toothpaste and a new toothbrush. ORGANIC TOOTHPASTE IS NASTY! It looks like I will be gagging this entire next month while I have to use it.
I really want to write more, but my head is starting to kill me.
Sunday, July 24, 2005
Another Weekend Gone
I know, I really am doing an early entry tonight. I figured that my weekend is done and I should probably go ahead and blog before I crash from exhaustion.
Today was not nearly as draining as yesterday's "encounter." Of course we talked about sex and the presenters seemed a little uneasy, but everyone giggled when the word "genital" appeared on the screen during the presentation. I guess very little changes once you learn about "the birds and the bees" at the age of 12. We had more worksheets to fill out and letters to write to each other. Moving on. . .
We finally talked about marriage as a Sacrament and not just a civil union. This took me back to my Divorce and Bitterness, oh I mean Marriage and Family, class in college. I remember teaming up with my good friend, Stephanie, to fight the hatred and disillusionment that the middle aged women threw at us every night of class.
Our final "love letter" that we had to write had us answer the question: "Am I prepared to love you unconditionally for the rest of my life?" I figured this was simple enough because I answered that when my fiance proposed. The letter he wrote me for this question was my favorite of the whole weekend. I would like to share, but then I think some of the magic would be lost. Besides I wouldn't want to make anyone too jealous;).
My family is at UNT for my sister's orientation. Thank God she is going away to school. I think this will do her a lot of good. I'm just ready for things to fall into place for all of us, me with my marriage, her with school, and my parents with the rest of their life together.
I'm off to eat some cereal, watch some television, and finish some laundry.
Today was not nearly as draining as yesterday's "encounter." Of course we talked about sex and the presenters seemed a little uneasy, but everyone giggled when the word "genital" appeared on the screen during the presentation. I guess very little changes once you learn about "the birds and the bees" at the age of 12. We had more worksheets to fill out and letters to write to each other. Moving on. . .
We finally talked about marriage as a Sacrament and not just a civil union. This took me back to my Divorce and Bitterness, oh I mean Marriage and Family, class in college. I remember teaming up with my good friend, Stephanie, to fight the hatred and disillusionment that the middle aged women threw at us every night of class.
Our final "love letter" that we had to write had us answer the question: "Am I prepared to love you unconditionally for the rest of my life?" I figured this was simple enough because I answered that when my fiance proposed. The letter he wrote me for this question was my favorite of the whole weekend. I would like to share, but then I think some of the magic would be lost. Besides I wouldn't want to make anyone too jealous;).
My family is at UNT for my sister's orientation. Thank God she is going away to school. I think this will do her a lot of good. I'm just ready for things to fall into place for all of us, me with my marriage, her with school, and my parents with the rest of their life together.
I'm off to eat some cereal, watch some television, and finish some laundry.
The Fine Print
Well, I just know I will be kicking myself in five hours when I have to get up to go back out to my Engaged Encounter Weekend. I just could not crash for the night without my update and opinions. Of course this weekend is one of the requirements of being married in the Catholic Church, but it is some pain in the behind fine print!
The morning started at 6 A.M. for me and the actual "encounter" began at 8:30 A.M. My fiance and my first project was to make a three generation family tree. Sounds simple enough and maybe we over simplified, but we finished in 10 minutes. Then we stared at each other for a while. Thus began the program. The presenters wanted to make perfectly clear, repeatedly, that this was a weekend about us (and the 39 other couples) and not about converting anyone into the Catholic faith. Okay, moving on. . .oh wait they are reinterating. . .
The whole day was set up with the same pattern: Presentation, couple activity, break, presentation, couple activity, break, etc. Naturally we had an hour for lunch, taco salads, and dinner, chicken and spaghetti. We never left our room! It was one giant room with lots of little tables, one couple per table, and the temp was somewhere around 70 degrees. "Brrrr, it's cold in here, there must be some Clovers in the atmosphere," this was my fiance's favorite saying all day long!
We covered our Family of Origin and what that causes us to bring to the marriage. We discussed personality traits, communication, finances, religion, family set up, drugs/alcohol addiction, love letter writing (not one of my fiance's stronger points, but the letter was so characteristically him that it was endearing), and conflict resolution. We had worksheets A-L to complete and a little green book to fill out. Tomorrow should be very exciting because we get to talk about sex and marriage! Woo-hoo!
Please do not misunderstand, I know exactly why these weekends are held. I am positive that a majority of the couples there have not even given a first thought to any of the subjects above, let alone a second or third thought. All the information was more than helpful if that was the case, but due to my fiance's logic seeking mind and my anal need to plan ahead (thank teaching for that) we have already discussed and agreed on all of this. When we would have to separate to fill out a worksheet and meet up to discuss our responses/answers, 95% of the time we had the exact same thing. It got to the point where we stopped putting serious answers and we still wrote the same humorous or sarcastic answers. For example; one worksheet asked how we would discipline our children (a very important topic if each person was raised differently) and I wrote "beat'em." Of course I was joking and I knew my fiance would get a kick out of the answer. When he returned I looked at his answer and it said, "whips." Are we a match made in Heaven or what?
By about 4:30 P.M. I started to snap and my fiance started to get delirious. In order to control my urge to run around the room screaming like I was on fire, I started thinking of all the ways I would put this thing together to make it more entertaining and efficient. I just can't escape the need to control and plan! You better believe that I will be submitting all my suggestions in writing at the end of the weekend (with or without a survey).
As I mentioned before, this is a great weekend for couples who may still be in a "romantic phase" of their relationship and have given zero thought to real life after the wedding. I think more people should have to make sure they cover all of this information before hand, but my fiance and I are so ahead of the game that it was like beating our heads against a wall, which I seriously considered doing to pass some time. By the end of today I was very thankful that I am marrying someone who can openly discuss and listen, or "dialogue" as it was called today, about these issues. It definitely reinforced my desire to be his wife and reminded me why we are meant for each other. I am no longer worried about leaving anything out or ignoring something important that we will face later.
All right, I really need to get some sleep.
The morning started at 6 A.M. for me and the actual "encounter" began at 8:30 A.M. My fiance and my first project was to make a three generation family tree. Sounds simple enough and maybe we over simplified, but we finished in 10 minutes. Then we stared at each other for a while. Thus began the program. The presenters wanted to make perfectly clear, repeatedly, that this was a weekend about us (and the 39 other couples) and not about converting anyone into the Catholic faith. Okay, moving on. . .oh wait they are reinterating. . .
The whole day was set up with the same pattern: Presentation, couple activity, break, presentation, couple activity, break, etc. Naturally we had an hour for lunch, taco salads, and dinner, chicken and spaghetti. We never left our room! It was one giant room with lots of little tables, one couple per table, and the temp was somewhere around 70 degrees. "Brrrr, it's cold in here, there must be some Clovers in the atmosphere," this was my fiance's favorite saying all day long!
We covered our Family of Origin and what that causes us to bring to the marriage. We discussed personality traits, communication, finances, religion, family set up, drugs/alcohol addiction, love letter writing (not one of my fiance's stronger points, but the letter was so characteristically him that it was endearing), and conflict resolution. We had worksheets A-L to complete and a little green book to fill out. Tomorrow should be very exciting because we get to talk about sex and marriage! Woo-hoo!
Please do not misunderstand, I know exactly why these weekends are held. I am positive that a majority of the couples there have not even given a first thought to any of the subjects above, let alone a second or third thought. All the information was more than helpful if that was the case, but due to my fiance's logic seeking mind and my anal need to plan ahead (thank teaching for that) we have already discussed and agreed on all of this. When we would have to separate to fill out a worksheet and meet up to discuss our responses/answers, 95% of the time we had the exact same thing. It got to the point where we stopped putting serious answers and we still wrote the same humorous or sarcastic answers. For example; one worksheet asked how we would discipline our children (a very important topic if each person was raised differently) and I wrote "beat'em." Of course I was joking and I knew my fiance would get a kick out of the answer. When he returned I looked at his answer and it said, "whips." Are we a match made in Heaven or what?
By about 4:30 P.M. I started to snap and my fiance started to get delirious. In order to control my urge to run around the room screaming like I was on fire, I started thinking of all the ways I would put this thing together to make it more entertaining and efficient. I just can't escape the need to control and plan! You better believe that I will be submitting all my suggestions in writing at the end of the weekend (with or without a survey).
As I mentioned before, this is a great weekend for couples who may still be in a "romantic phase" of their relationship and have given zero thought to real life after the wedding. I think more people should have to make sure they cover all of this information before hand, but my fiance and I are so ahead of the game that it was like beating our heads against a wall, which I seriously considered doing to pass some time. By the end of today I was very thankful that I am marrying someone who can openly discuss and listen, or "dialogue" as it was called today, about these issues. It definitely reinforced my desire to be his wife and reminded me why we are meant for each other. I am no longer worried about leaving anything out or ignoring something important that we will face later.
All right, I really need to get some sleep.
Saturday, July 23, 2005
America's Past Time?
Another day, another adventure. I lounged about for half a day and then ran up to the mall with my gal pal, Mandy. She had to buy make-up and I needed something, anything, to put my hair up with so I would not be miserable at the ball game.
I have decided that long hair is my blessing and my curse. Apparently it is too beautiful to butcher off, but it is incredibly too hot and troublesome to deal with. Maybe I should just start a new trend in bald heads for women.
My fiance and I attended a Rangers game this evening. I am not really sure who dubbed baseball, "America's pastime," but I can think of ten gazillion things I would rather be doing. I mean no offense to the baseball enthusiasts out there. I guess everyone has to have his/her passions, but baseball will never be one of mine. (Unless of course my kid is in little league.) All I did at Ameriquest Field, the name was changed and I didn't get the memo, was stick to my seat (literally), wander aimlessly for a good fruit drink (alcoholic), and sweat till I stunk (women glisten-yeah right). I have yet to discover what is so fun and exciting about any of that. I even got all prettied up and had a positive mind set about tonight, but all that went to crap when the people organizing the event didn't have their stuff together. No matter how hectic things were or complicated they seemed to get, I always remember that if I had to plan anything in college, or even after, I had better have my "ducks in a row" or it would not be pleasant. There is not room for error when 12 people are supposed to meet for a required staff "fun night." That's right, my fiance's job forced people to socialize.
The first bright idea from this group was to meet at 5:30 P.M. on a Friday evening. I don't care what big city you live in, but rush hour will always be rush hour. Not to mention that the highway we had to take is under construction. We were only 20 minutes late which meant my fiance only cussed a little. To make it worse, the girl in charge that changed the time to 5:30 did not show up at our meeting place until 6:30 P.M.! And her excuse? Survey says: TRAFFIC! No poop Sherlock! (More cussing from my fiance happened about this time.)
I know this kind of stuff is especially frustrating for my fiance because he is older than the people in charge and could definitely do their jobs better, but he is still a student so he has to hold his tongue.
The drive back was rather peaceful and now I am going to scrub the nastiness that is suffocating my pores all over my face. I have to be at my fiance's at 7:30 A.M. for our Engagement Encounter Weekend, man I need some sleep.
I have decided that long hair is my blessing and my curse. Apparently it is too beautiful to butcher off, but it is incredibly too hot and troublesome to deal with. Maybe I should just start a new trend in bald heads for women.
My fiance and I attended a Rangers game this evening. I am not really sure who dubbed baseball, "America's pastime," but I can think of ten gazillion things I would rather be doing. I mean no offense to the baseball enthusiasts out there. I guess everyone has to have his/her passions, but baseball will never be one of mine. (Unless of course my kid is in little league.) All I did at Ameriquest Field, the name was changed and I didn't get the memo, was stick to my seat (literally), wander aimlessly for a good fruit drink (alcoholic), and sweat till I stunk (women glisten-yeah right). I have yet to discover what is so fun and exciting about any of that. I even got all prettied up and had a positive mind set about tonight, but all that went to crap when the people organizing the event didn't have their stuff together. No matter how hectic things were or complicated they seemed to get, I always remember that if I had to plan anything in college, or even after, I had better have my "ducks in a row" or it would not be pleasant. There is not room for error when 12 people are supposed to meet for a required staff "fun night." That's right, my fiance's job forced people to socialize.
The first bright idea from this group was to meet at 5:30 P.M. on a Friday evening. I don't care what big city you live in, but rush hour will always be rush hour. Not to mention that the highway we had to take is under construction. We were only 20 minutes late which meant my fiance only cussed a little. To make it worse, the girl in charge that changed the time to 5:30 did not show up at our meeting place until 6:30 P.M.! And her excuse? Survey says: TRAFFIC! No poop Sherlock! (More cussing from my fiance happened about this time.)
I know this kind of stuff is especially frustrating for my fiance because he is older than the people in charge and could definitely do their jobs better, but he is still a student so he has to hold his tongue.
The drive back was rather peaceful and now I am going to scrub the nastiness that is suffocating my pores all over my face. I have to be at my fiance's at 7:30 A.M. for our Engagement Encounter Weekend, man I need some sleep.
Friday, July 22, 2005
Me and You can agree
This did not feel like a Thursday. I woke up and ran for a bit, took a shower, and visited my friend at work. She gave me some great posters and borders for my classroom. My classroom that I will not be able to move into until next Wednesday.
My fiance and I had an indie film night. We had a pass to see Me You and Everyone We Know:
THIS FILM WAS AWFUL! If you saw it as "artsy" or "a deep movie," you are just trying to sound important or smart. This film tried entirely too hard to be "artsy." Let's start with the suggested pedophilia. There were two sex crazed 14 year old girls that got their kicks from the obscene words that a man in his 30s would post on his windows for them to read. Not to mention the "oral gratification" they forced upon their 14 year old, male neighbor to see who would be more qualified to do the same to the man in his 30s.
Most six year olds I know would giggle at the mention of the word "poop," but the six year old in this movie got his kicks from writing in a sex chat room using bowel movements as a topic for internet love making. We needn't forget about the over use of the "f word" in a scene when the "artistic," it's never psycho behavior if the chick is an artist, woman cannot get the man she loves. The man she loves she met as he sold her a pair of shoes. She started her own emotional adhesion after purchasing a pair of pink flats. There was no love story here, it was all crap.
I can think of much better indie films with decent acting and love stories. Garden State and Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind are the first two to pop into my head. Save yourself the hour and a half and the money on a movie ticket. Thank God we saw this movie for free because it only gets 1 out of 5 hearts.
My fiance and I had an indie film night. We had a pass to see Me You and Everyone We Know:
THIS FILM WAS AWFUL! If you saw it as "artsy" or "a deep movie," you are just trying to sound important or smart. This film tried entirely too hard to be "artsy." Let's start with the suggested pedophilia. There were two sex crazed 14 year old girls that got their kicks from the obscene words that a man in his 30s would post on his windows for them to read. Not to mention the "oral gratification" they forced upon their 14 year old, male neighbor to see who would be more qualified to do the same to the man in his 30s.
Most six year olds I know would giggle at the mention of the word "poop," but the six year old in this movie got his kicks from writing in a sex chat room using bowel movements as a topic for internet love making. We needn't forget about the over use of the "f word" in a scene when the "artistic," it's never psycho behavior if the chick is an artist, woman cannot get the man she loves. The man she loves she met as he sold her a pair of shoes. She started her own emotional adhesion after purchasing a pair of pink flats. There was no love story here, it was all crap.
I can think of much better indie films with decent acting and love stories. Garden State and Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind are the first two to pop into my head. Save yourself the hour and a half and the money on a movie ticket. Thank God we saw this movie for free because it only gets 1 out of 5 hearts.
Wednesday, July 20, 2005
WED-NES-DAY
There is very little that is as beautiful to me as the full moon. No I'm not a werewolf, but it really is cool to see how a full moon can light up a night. Unfortunately it is cloudy tonight so it is kind of hard to see the moon.
I had a very fun and carefree day. My friend, Jess, and I visited my cousin at her salon. My cousin did her first dry run with my hair for my wedding. I did not have to say a word and she fixed my hair exactly the way I envisioned. I almost wanted to cry with the tiara and veil in place. After we left I really became anxious for my wedding day because I knew just how beautiful I am going to look.
The afternoon was spent finding good prizes for bridal shower party games. Michael's Arts and Crafts is such a fun place for gift wrap. We then headed to Boarder's Books to purchase small knick knacks as the prizes. A quick trip to the local Wal Mart and we were back at my house experimenting with ways to make the perfect pink punch. It was discovered by my friend: Equal amounts (four cups of each) of Ginger Ale and Crystal Light Strawberry-Orange-Banana (make sure the Crystal Light is made) and then add about four scoops of Blue Bell Rainbow Sherbert. I think it should be called Jess's Perfect Pink Punch, but that's just me.
Dinner was spent with my folks and that is always entertaining. I was also able to get my things for my new classroom and tomorrow I will hopefully be taking them up to the school. Now I will watch King Arthur, a movie full of good looking men, and will crash for the night.
I had a very fun and carefree day. My friend, Jess, and I visited my cousin at her salon. My cousin did her first dry run with my hair for my wedding. I did not have to say a word and she fixed my hair exactly the way I envisioned. I almost wanted to cry with the tiara and veil in place. After we left I really became anxious for my wedding day because I knew just how beautiful I am going to look.
The afternoon was spent finding good prizes for bridal shower party games. Michael's Arts and Crafts is such a fun place for gift wrap. We then headed to Boarder's Books to purchase small knick knacks as the prizes. A quick trip to the local Wal Mart and we were back at my house experimenting with ways to make the perfect pink punch. It was discovered by my friend: Equal amounts (four cups of each) of Ginger Ale and Crystal Light Strawberry-Orange-Banana (make sure the Crystal Light is made) and then add about four scoops of Blue Bell Rainbow Sherbert. I think it should be called Jess's Perfect Pink Punch, but that's just me.
Dinner was spent with my folks and that is always entertaining. I was also able to get my things for my new classroom and tomorrow I will hopefully be taking them up to the school. Now I will watch King Arthur, a movie full of good looking men, and will crash for the night.
That time of year
Today was my annual "Women's Doctor" visit. Talk about one of the most embarrassing times of year. I understand that it is a safety issue and it is a necessary appointment, but it really is a little humiliating. I went to a new doc today and he was really great. I was comfortable and the whole visit was quick and painless. Not that I'm looking forward to my next visit in 365 days, but I will not be dreading it like usual.
I spent another day loafing around. When I returned home, I made some tuna salad for sandwiches, ate a sandwich and orange and took a brief nap.
The evening was spent with my sweetheart and I updated a lot of the addresses in my wedding list. Hopefully tomorrow will be more eventful.
I spent another day loafing around. When I returned home, I made some tuna salad for sandwiches, ate a sandwich and orange and took a brief nap.
The evening was spent with my sweetheart and I updated a lot of the addresses in my wedding list. Hopefully tomorrow will be more eventful.
Monday, July 18, 2005
Body and Mind
A pretty relaxing day all around. I finished J.K. Rowling's newest addition to Harry Potter's adventures. I was very depressed when I closed the back cover. I eagerly await book seven and I am just flabbergasted that things are happening the way they are for Harry. I will say this, I am beyond ready for Ron and Hermione to do whatever they need to do to get together.
After I shut the book, I walked/ran on the treadmill for about 30 minutes. I really need to get my stamina back up before I go back to work.
I spent some time with my fiance's mother this evening doing arts and crafts. I had a very good time and I really am glad she will be part of my family.
Not a whole lot to report on today. I do have an early doctor's appointment so I must get some sleep.
After I shut the book, I walked/ran on the treadmill for about 30 minutes. I really need to get my stamina back up before I go back to work.
I spent some time with my fiance's mother this evening doing arts and crafts. I had a very good time and I really am glad she will be part of my family.
Not a whole lot to report on today. I do have an early doctor's appointment so I must get some sleep.
Sunday, July 17, 2005
Feelings
This has been a very enjoyable weekend. My Saturday started bright and early at 7:30 A.M. My mom and I met a friend for breakfast and then made our way to the Farmer's Market. I found the most beautiful pink plants to use as party favors for my bridal shower. We purchased 36 of them and now my mother is keeping her fingers crossed that they will stay alive for the next month and beyond.
While we walked among the fruit and vegetable vendors, I began to have a daydream about my own household some day. I would come with my kids and get them nutritious things to eat. I would have people over for parties and make snacks and meals with fresh pasta and produce. I was thoroughly enjoying this vision when it occurred to me how life can really change a person. Not long ago my daydreams involved a red carpet, a fancy dress, an MTV awards show, and Orlando Bloom. Funny what my brain can concoct.
After our tour de foods we spent some time at our friend's apartment and we enjoyed fresh fruit smoothies. As delicious as they were, I must say I prefer the kind with ice cream or frozen yogurt in them.
Later Saturday night my fiance and I visited with some friends and I had blast. I absolutely adore the two families we spent time with. They are classy, kind, loving people with wonderful children and beautiful homes. I actually felt like I belonged even though my own family is a few years down the road. I cannot wait to be a great mother and to have people over to visit in my own cozy home.
Today was very uneventful. I went to church and then spent the day with my fiance. We watched a movie, I read a book, and we went grocery shopping. Nothing out of the ordinary, but I did find something that really bothered me:
An absence of consideration for people's feelings. I am a sensitive person by nature, and I have come a long way from my over sensitivity in childhood. There are just some people that insist on talking with rude, uncaring tones and words do hurt people! Some would say, "I'm just being honest" or "There's no reason to sugar coat," but there is very good reason to think about what is about to come out of your mouth. Not everyone responds to bluntness and many do perceive it as cruel. I do know people that prefer to be told things up front, honestly, no "beating around the bush." With those people that is how I talk to them, but I also know people who stop listening as soon as their feelings are hurt by the words that are said. These kinds of people, and I can be one of them, do need a kinder tone or at least an explanation for an abrupt or curt comment. When someone is too honest or harsh it just appears as if that person lacks any feeling at all. Quickly telling a person to "get over their issue" does not help the situation, but actually worsens it. What is so wrong about acknowledging a hurt or angry feeling and apologizing? Not apologizing for what is said, but how it was said. When you attack someone with bitter words it can make her feel like a nuisance, invisible, uncared for, or insignificant. So please, always think before speaking about the person that will be receiving the words darting out of the mouth. This is the reason why some people suck at verbal communication, because "you will always catch more flies with honey than vinegar."
No more soapbox, I have a book to finish.
While we walked among the fruit and vegetable vendors, I began to have a daydream about my own household some day. I would come with my kids and get them nutritious things to eat. I would have people over for parties and make snacks and meals with fresh pasta and produce. I was thoroughly enjoying this vision when it occurred to me how life can really change a person. Not long ago my daydreams involved a red carpet, a fancy dress, an MTV awards show, and Orlando Bloom. Funny what my brain can concoct.
After our tour de foods we spent some time at our friend's apartment and we enjoyed fresh fruit smoothies. As delicious as they were, I must say I prefer the kind with ice cream or frozen yogurt in them.
Later Saturday night my fiance and I visited with some friends and I had blast. I absolutely adore the two families we spent time with. They are classy, kind, loving people with wonderful children and beautiful homes. I actually felt like I belonged even though my own family is a few years down the road. I cannot wait to be a great mother and to have people over to visit in my own cozy home.
Today was very uneventful. I went to church and then spent the day with my fiance. We watched a movie, I read a book, and we went grocery shopping. Nothing out of the ordinary, but I did find something that really bothered me:
An absence of consideration for people's feelings. I am a sensitive person by nature, and I have come a long way from my over sensitivity in childhood. There are just some people that insist on talking with rude, uncaring tones and words do hurt people! Some would say, "I'm just being honest" or "There's no reason to sugar coat," but there is very good reason to think about what is about to come out of your mouth. Not everyone responds to bluntness and many do perceive it as cruel. I do know people that prefer to be told things up front, honestly, no "beating around the bush." With those people that is how I talk to them, but I also know people who stop listening as soon as their feelings are hurt by the words that are said. These kinds of people, and I can be one of them, do need a kinder tone or at least an explanation for an abrupt or curt comment. When someone is too honest or harsh it just appears as if that person lacks any feeling at all. Quickly telling a person to "get over their issue" does not help the situation, but actually worsens it. What is so wrong about acknowledging a hurt or angry feeling and apologizing? Not apologizing for what is said, but how it was said. When you attack someone with bitter words it can make her feel like a nuisance, invisible, uncared for, or insignificant. So please, always think before speaking about the person that will be receiving the words darting out of the mouth. This is the reason why some people suck at verbal communication, because "you will always catch more flies with honey than vinegar."
No more soapbox, I have a book to finish.
Saturday, July 16, 2005
Willy versus Charlie is a little Harry
Wow! Today was a fantabulous day! I do need to apologize for my negligence with yesterday's blog. Since my brain is working very little this summer, I needed to give it a break. On Thursday I did meet some of my co-workers and I received the keys to my new classroom. I cannot wait to make it my own with decorations and books.
This morning started with a light walk/jog on the treadmill that is now occupying my sister's room. I watched Golden Girls as I walked so it didn't seem like 30 whole minutes. I still look great in my wedding dress, but losing a few pounds never hurt anyone.
I had lunch with my numero uno muchacho. I am so in love with my fiance. I hope everyone can experience that feeling.
After lunch, my parents and I caught a matinee of Fantastic Four. Ah seeing Ioan Gruffudd on the big screen did me good. Both of my folks thoroughly enjoyed the film, as I knew they would. My mother and I ran by Office Depot and CVS Pharmacy a little later and were hit by the gushing thunderstorm that is a result of the current hurricane. We hurried home and I tracked the storm's progress on weather.com. I wanted to make sure it would not interfere with my evening plans.
Chris, my fiance, came over at 7:30 P.M. so we could see the 8 o'clock Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. First and foremost: I love Gene Wilder and think he is a brilliant comedian. His version of this Roald Dahl beloved tale will always be one of my favorite movies. It never hurts to see a new take on an old classic. Naturally I have a movie review:
This version was directed by the uniquely talented Tim Burton. Whenever Mr. Burton and Johnny Depp get together freakishly great things happen. Depp was an eerie and lovable Wonka. The effects and scenery and story line were cleverly put together. This version is so different in its own genuine way that it really cannot be compared to its musical predecessor. I loved the movie! I will own it and proudly place it next to Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory. I want my children to see both. It isn't a matter of one being better than the other, or even defending why either were made. Go see this movie and just enjoy it! 4 out of 5 hearts
Okay, I arrived at Wal Mart at 11:15 P.M. because I had to get my hands on Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince. I thought I would outsmart the insanity at all the bookstores. I also knew I would get the book for much cheaper (I paid $15.98 and the cover price is $29.99). The freaks really do come out at night ladies and gentlemen. I had to hear a grown man's obsession with the novels and movies. I know, I know I was up there in line with him, so what does that make me? I do not have four different editions of the books, I have not been trying to discover all the secrets of the cast in all the movies, I was not furious when Dumbledore had to be replaced when Richard Harris died, and I am not collecting the boxes that the books arrived in because they say the book title on the outside. Yes, these were all things the man was bragging about while we waited. Let's not get into how he felt about Hermione, can we say creepy? I just enjoy a good book.
I must go, there is a half blood prince calling my name.
This morning started with a light walk/jog on the treadmill that is now occupying my sister's room. I watched Golden Girls as I walked so it didn't seem like 30 whole minutes. I still look great in my wedding dress, but losing a few pounds never hurt anyone.
I had lunch with my numero uno muchacho. I am so in love with my fiance. I hope everyone can experience that feeling.
After lunch, my parents and I caught a matinee of Fantastic Four. Ah seeing Ioan Gruffudd on the big screen did me good. Both of my folks thoroughly enjoyed the film, as I knew they would. My mother and I ran by Office Depot and CVS Pharmacy a little later and were hit by the gushing thunderstorm that is a result of the current hurricane. We hurried home and I tracked the storm's progress on weather.com. I wanted to make sure it would not interfere with my evening plans.
Chris, my fiance, came over at 7:30 P.M. so we could see the 8 o'clock Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. First and foremost: I love Gene Wilder and think he is a brilliant comedian. His version of this Roald Dahl beloved tale will always be one of my favorite movies. It never hurts to see a new take on an old classic. Naturally I have a movie review:
This version was directed by the uniquely talented Tim Burton. Whenever Mr. Burton and Johnny Depp get together freakishly great things happen. Depp was an eerie and lovable Wonka. The effects and scenery and story line were cleverly put together. This version is so different in its own genuine way that it really cannot be compared to its musical predecessor. I loved the movie! I will own it and proudly place it next to Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory. I want my children to see both. It isn't a matter of one being better than the other, or even defending why either were made. Go see this movie and just enjoy it! 4 out of 5 hearts
Okay, I arrived at Wal Mart at 11:15 P.M. because I had to get my hands on Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince. I thought I would outsmart the insanity at all the bookstores. I also knew I would get the book for much cheaper (I paid $15.98 and the cover price is $29.99). The freaks really do come out at night ladies and gentlemen. I had to hear a grown man's obsession with the novels and movies. I know, I know I was up there in line with him, so what does that make me? I do not have four different editions of the books, I have not been trying to discover all the secrets of the cast in all the movies, I was not furious when Dumbledore had to be replaced when Richard Harris died, and I am not collecting the boxes that the books arrived in because they say the book title on the outside. Yes, these were all things the man was bragging about while we waited. Let's not get into how he felt about Hermione, can we say creepy? I just enjoy a good book.
I must go, there is a half blood prince calling my name.
Thursday, July 14, 2005
I found a cure for my shopping habit!
Why hasn't anyone ever told me how awesome registries are?! I spent the whole afternoon and early evening shopping and I didn't spend a single cent. Since I mailed my shower invitations yesterday, I figured I might need to get my registries set up for those "eager beavers" that will go present hunting the minute they get the invite.
I met my fiance for lunch at noon and enjoyed some tasty turkey at Which Wich. It really is a shame that there are only a couple locations in Dallas. They have a great product.
Dillard's was my first stop for ye ole registry. One would think that a large department store like that would have their act a bit more together. I saw plenty of people working, but only two ladies were helping anyone with registries. I found myself filling out more paperwork and then they broke out the scan gun! It seemed like a fun idea: just run around and scan the bar codes of what I want on the registry. Well, I received a lazy gun that would not scan so I had to manually type in every item's number. I only put about 12-14 things on that list because I do not know a lot of people that can afford that stuff. It was really my nicer store for those that are not satisfied with a lesser place to purchase gifts. (I'll just say it: snobs!) Not that I will be ungrateful for receiving anything on that list.
I hopped in my car, that's right my car, and headed to Bed, Bath, and Beyond. I knew that this would be the biggie. My fiance and I mostly need kitchen stuff and linens so I was ready to make quite a "wish list." My friend, Mandy, joined me for this one so she could check things off of the list. I went section by section and scanned everything from salt and pepper mills to spice racks to candles to towels to sheets to small electronics, but no dishes. As with Dillard's I was disappointed in the dish selection. It was all good in the end. I had over 150 things on the list so people will have plenty to choose from. Bed, Bath, and Beyond was the best organized registry I did. They immediately had everything accessible online and were very helpful and friendly. I encourage all future bride's to make this a necessary registry.
Finally I found my way to Target. I love Target, especially Super Target. Well, it was much easier to get set up for my registry here, but it was not as much fun. I guess I was coming down from the Bed, Bath, and Beyond shopping high. I did register for a cooler on wheels, plants, and (drumroll please) some dishes! The ones I really wanted had to be purchased separately so I scanned them each individually. I just know someone will only purchase two plates, which is fine, but I won't have a whole set. Just to cover myself in the dish department, I found a whole set in a box that I also liked and scanned it. . .twice. By 6:00 P.M. I was spent.
It is amazing how much energy shopping can suck right out of a person. I had a blast and I did not have to spend anything. I am keeping my fingers crossed that people will take full advantage of the registry. I need to remember to tell my fiance that gifts that are sent by mail will be sent to his house.
I must get some rest. I have a meeting with my new fellow teachers and I will be getting my dress altered. Dear God I hope I can still fit in it!
I met my fiance for lunch at noon and enjoyed some tasty turkey at Which Wich. It really is a shame that there are only a couple locations in Dallas. They have a great product.
Dillard's was my first stop for ye ole registry. One would think that a large department store like that would have their act a bit more together. I saw plenty of people working, but only two ladies were helping anyone with registries. I found myself filling out more paperwork and then they broke out the scan gun! It seemed like a fun idea: just run around and scan the bar codes of what I want on the registry. Well, I received a lazy gun that would not scan so I had to manually type in every item's number. I only put about 12-14 things on that list because I do not know a lot of people that can afford that stuff. It was really my nicer store for those that are not satisfied with a lesser place to purchase gifts. (I'll just say it: snobs!) Not that I will be ungrateful for receiving anything on that list.
I hopped in my car, that's right my car, and headed to Bed, Bath, and Beyond. I knew that this would be the biggie. My fiance and I mostly need kitchen stuff and linens so I was ready to make quite a "wish list." My friend, Mandy, joined me for this one so she could check things off of the list. I went section by section and scanned everything from salt and pepper mills to spice racks to candles to towels to sheets to small electronics, but no dishes. As with Dillard's I was disappointed in the dish selection. It was all good in the end. I had over 150 things on the list so people will have plenty to choose from. Bed, Bath, and Beyond was the best organized registry I did. They immediately had everything accessible online and were very helpful and friendly. I encourage all future bride's to make this a necessary registry.
Finally I found my way to Target. I love Target, especially Super Target. Well, it was much easier to get set up for my registry here, but it was not as much fun. I guess I was coming down from the Bed, Bath, and Beyond shopping high. I did register for a cooler on wheels, plants, and (drumroll please) some dishes! The ones I really wanted had to be purchased separately so I scanned them each individually. I just know someone will only purchase two plates, which is fine, but I won't have a whole set. Just to cover myself in the dish department, I found a whole set in a box that I also liked and scanned it. . .twice. By 6:00 P.M. I was spent.
It is amazing how much energy shopping can suck right out of a person. I had a blast and I did not have to spend anything. I am keeping my fingers crossed that people will take full advantage of the registry. I need to remember to tell my fiance that gifts that are sent by mail will be sent to his house.
I must get some rest. I have a meeting with my new fellow teachers and I will be getting my dress altered. Dear God I hope I can still fit in it!
Wednesday, July 13, 2005
The Marriage of True Minds
Today was actually a very pleasing day. I was worried at first because I had a rough night of sleep. After I finally woke up and moved around a bit, I decided to make a cake. Baking always makes the house smell wonderful. It finished and I put it in the fridge to cool it faster so I could ice it later.
At 12:00 P.M. I started getting ready to go and sign my contract for teaching this year. To my dismay the few extra pounds I have gained while loafing about made putting dress pants on a challenge. I did a few squats to stretch them out and realized I would not be able to breathe much while I wore them. I really need to hit the treadmill. I arrived early and who do I see coming out of admin, but my ole buddy Scott. He recently was promoted and I had to heckle him about wearing a full business suit in the Texas heat. Being a modest man, he rarely can handle a compliment about how great he looks. We chit-chatted a little and I finally went inside before I melted in my nice clothes.
I was with about 19 other people. We had our pictures taken, copies of our license and social security card made, and then we filled out and signed a bazillion pieces of paperwork. My file was almost complete. They only needed my certificate which is being held because of that darn fingerprint/background check being done by the FBI. (I did call SBEC today and she told me that my request was being processed.) I was excited to discover that I would be making $2000 more than last year, and quite possibly $3000 more. My fiance was excited about this too.
Once I returned home, I changed into more comfortable clothes, iced my cake, and went to the post office. I mailed by friend in College Station a birthday present and mailed the invites to my bridal shower. Tomorrow I will be actually doing my registries so that people can actually get gifts that we need.
My fiance and I went to Shakespeare in the Park here in Dallas, and we saw Richard III. The weather was cool and breezy, thanks to a small shower earlier today, and the skies were clear. The moon was a nice aesthetic addition to the scenery. People were out there on lawn chairs and blankets and they brought snacks and some had picnic baskets containing dinner. I was mostly amused by the people who had wine and cheese. It makes sense if you are the type of society that does that and watches Shakespeare, but I had my eye on some delicious looking Oreos and a cold glass of milk. To be perfectly honest, I see Shakespeare as more of an Oreo man anyway. My fiance was mostly impressed with Shakespeare's art of insult. I love the fact that Shakespeare could insult ad person and s/he would take too much time trying to figure out what he said, that s/he would not comprehend it as derogatory towards him/her. THAT MAN IS A GENIUS!
I came home and my sister was over for a visit. She and my mom have been doing great since she moved out. It just appears that "this house isn't big enough for the both of them." Anyway, Katelyn, my sister, and I filled out her FAFSA for the upcoming school year. Talk about a pain in the bottom. They really want to make sure that a person needs the help. The process was already taking forever and then the system booted us out right in the middle. Fortunately we had been saving the info so we were able to re-login where we had stopped. My head is still spinning from all the questions.
Well, I guess there will be no review tonight. My body is tired and I have to get up early. I will leave you with this from Shakespeare:
"You are a candle, the better part burnt out."
At 12:00 P.M. I started getting ready to go and sign my contract for teaching this year. To my dismay the few extra pounds I have gained while loafing about made putting dress pants on a challenge. I did a few squats to stretch them out and realized I would not be able to breathe much while I wore them. I really need to hit the treadmill. I arrived early and who do I see coming out of admin, but my ole buddy Scott. He recently was promoted and I had to heckle him about wearing a full business suit in the Texas heat. Being a modest man, he rarely can handle a compliment about how great he looks. We chit-chatted a little and I finally went inside before I melted in my nice clothes.
I was with about 19 other people. We had our pictures taken, copies of our license and social security card made, and then we filled out and signed a bazillion pieces of paperwork. My file was almost complete. They only needed my certificate which is being held because of that darn fingerprint/background check being done by the FBI. (I did call SBEC today and she told me that my request was being processed.) I was excited to discover that I would be making $2000 more than last year, and quite possibly $3000 more. My fiance was excited about this too.
Once I returned home, I changed into more comfortable clothes, iced my cake, and went to the post office. I mailed by friend in College Station a birthday present and mailed the invites to my bridal shower. Tomorrow I will be actually doing my registries so that people can actually get gifts that we need.
My fiance and I went to Shakespeare in the Park here in Dallas, and we saw Richard III. The weather was cool and breezy, thanks to a small shower earlier today, and the skies were clear. The moon was a nice aesthetic addition to the scenery. People were out there on lawn chairs and blankets and they brought snacks and some had picnic baskets containing dinner. I was mostly amused by the people who had wine and cheese. It makes sense if you are the type of society that does that and watches Shakespeare, but I had my eye on some delicious looking Oreos and a cold glass of milk. To be perfectly honest, I see Shakespeare as more of an Oreo man anyway. My fiance was mostly impressed with Shakespeare's art of insult. I love the fact that Shakespeare could insult ad person and s/he would take too much time trying to figure out what he said, that s/he would not comprehend it as derogatory towards him/her. THAT MAN IS A GENIUS!
I came home and my sister was over for a visit. She and my mom have been doing great since she moved out. It just appears that "this house isn't big enough for the both of them." Anyway, Katelyn, my sister, and I filled out her FAFSA for the upcoming school year. Talk about a pain in the bottom. They really want to make sure that a person needs the help. The process was already taking forever and then the system booted us out right in the middle. Fortunately we had been saving the info so we were able to re-login where we had stopped. My head is still spinning from all the questions.
Well, I guess there will be no review tonight. My body is tired and I have to get up early. I will leave you with this from Shakespeare:
"You are a candle, the better part burnt out."
Tuesday, July 12, 2005
Mixed Emotions
I need to apologize for my absent entry from last night. I did not do a whole lot, but I did crash out into a mega deep nap and that ate up a lot of my evening. We did get a pretty harsh storm and we lost power. It rained for about an hour. Any rain in the summer is okay to me.
As ordered:) I watched The Notebook and, after a night to recover, I am ready to review it:
Ah Ryan Gosling, how fondly I remember thee from the ole days on the Mickey Mouse Club. It really is a shame that you were overlooked while your peers: Justin Timberlake, Britney Spears, and Christina Aguilera quickly sky rocketed into their musical careers. I am glad you held out for the movies because, as my friend Jess would say, I could just "take a bite out of you!"
Rachel McAdams is a marvelous up and coming actress. She truly has a talent for acting. I really despised her in Mean Girls, she was adorable in this movie, and I am looking forward to her performance in Wedding Crashers.
The movie is based on a Nicholas Sparks book which automatically means two things: there is going to be a very powerful love affair and someone with get sick or die. That is perhaps why I took so long to see this one. It was a good, heart warming and breaking film. To see Ryan's character love Rachel's character so much reinforces what all women hope to find in their soul mate. My heart even ached for him while he was in bed with another woman. I did shed a few tears by the end of this film and without giving anything away, I was minorly depressed at the ending. Sweet as it was, I would have liked something a little more positive as the last image in my mind. Ladies, if you have not done it yet, go and see this movie. Just make sure you are in your pajamas and snuggle up into bed to watch this one. This movie definitely makes the "Great Chick Flicks in the Deep South" along side films like: Fried Green Tomatoes, Steel Magnolias, and A Walk to Remember. I give this one 4 out of 5 hearts.
As ordered:) I watched The Notebook and, after a night to recover, I am ready to review it:
Ah Ryan Gosling, how fondly I remember thee from the ole days on the Mickey Mouse Club. It really is a shame that you were overlooked while your peers: Justin Timberlake, Britney Spears, and Christina Aguilera quickly sky rocketed into their musical careers. I am glad you held out for the movies because, as my friend Jess would say, I could just "take a bite out of you!"
Rachel McAdams is a marvelous up and coming actress. She truly has a talent for acting. I really despised her in Mean Girls, she was adorable in this movie, and I am looking forward to her performance in Wedding Crashers.
The movie is based on a Nicholas Sparks book which automatically means two things: there is going to be a very powerful love affair and someone with get sick or die. That is perhaps why I took so long to see this one. It was a good, heart warming and breaking film. To see Ryan's character love Rachel's character so much reinforces what all women hope to find in their soul mate. My heart even ached for him while he was in bed with another woman. I did shed a few tears by the end of this film and without giving anything away, I was minorly depressed at the ending. Sweet as it was, I would have liked something a little more positive as the last image in my mind. Ladies, if you have not done it yet, go and see this movie. Just make sure you are in your pajamas and snuggle up into bed to watch this one. This movie definitely makes the "Great Chick Flicks in the Deep South" along side films like: Fried Green Tomatoes, Steel Magnolias, and A Walk to Remember. I give this one 4 out of 5 hearts.
Sunday, July 10, 2005
Taste of Dallas
I am very exhausted tonight so this may not be long. It was a wonderful Sunday. Church was church and my family had lunch with friends. I think Sunday lunch is my favorite because it is the last relaxing meal before the reality of another work week sinks into the mind.
My fiance took me to The Taste of Dallas this evening. He had to work the SBC booth for work. The nice guy that my fiance worked with gave me a Fantastic Four poster since SBC is such a big sponsor of that movie. I was able to walk around and explore the tastes. I ate roasted corn, funnel cake, and steak on a stick. I drank two bottles of water and sampled Coca Cola Zero. I was also harassed by a rep from Bally's Total Fitness. I know I'm no Lindsay Lohan, with her skeleton like figure, but I also do not weigh 400 pounds. There was a booth set up for airbrush tattoos. Since my henna one was kind of a disaster I decided to try airbrush. It looks cute, but I cannot walk into nice places without long pants on because I put it on my ankle.
I had a moment today that I must share. This is a lovey-dovey gush warning:
My fiance and I were watching television this evening and as I leaned on him he gently played with my hair. I know it isn't a passionate love scene that makes romantic comedies so great, but it is the small type of affection that people need in good relationships. Sometimes that is the best way to show love. It makes the heart happy and is good for the soul.
(I told you it would be short tonight.)
My fiance took me to The Taste of Dallas this evening. He had to work the SBC booth for work. The nice guy that my fiance worked with gave me a Fantastic Four poster since SBC is such a big sponsor of that movie. I was able to walk around and explore the tastes. I ate roasted corn, funnel cake, and steak on a stick. I drank two bottles of water and sampled Coca Cola Zero. I was also harassed by a rep from Bally's Total Fitness. I know I'm no Lindsay Lohan, with her skeleton like figure, but I also do not weigh 400 pounds. There was a booth set up for airbrush tattoos. Since my henna one was kind of a disaster I decided to try airbrush. It looks cute, but I cannot walk into nice places without long pants on because I put it on my ankle.
I had a moment today that I must share. This is a lovey-dovey gush warning:
My fiance and I were watching television this evening and as I leaned on him he gently played with my hair. I know it isn't a passionate love scene that makes romantic comedies so great, but it is the small type of affection that people need in good relationships. Sometimes that is the best way to show love. It makes the heart happy and is good for the soul.
(I told you it would be short tonight.)
Saturday, July 09, 2005
Three Cheers for Mr. Fantastic!
Today was pretty eventful for being without a car. Once again I am grateful to have the most wonderful fiance. I was able to use Chris's car to take a good friend of mine shopping. We went to Virgin Megastore and to The Buffalo Exchange. It was a lot of fun, but then again, I cannot think of shopping as anything else. I purchased a Breakfast Club poster that will be framed and put on the same wall as my Singin' in the Rain and Say Anything posters in the office once I move in with Chris.
Note*The best way to bear the heat of a hot, Texas summer is with a Sonic Orange Cream Smoothie!
Now for the movie review:
I just saw The Fantastic Four. The only thing I really knew going in was that the cast was super hot and it was yet another Marvel Comic movie. The last comic movies I thoroughly enjoyed were the two X-Men films. Fantastic Four quickly jumped ahead of both of those movies. It really is kind of hard to compare them, but I was delightfully entertained by this movie. I laughed and at times I thought, "THAT WAS AWESOME!" Let us start with the cast. The Thing was of course the kick butt Michael Chiklis. I feel no one could have better "clobberin'" moments in any movie, and I will always love "the commish." Chris Evans. . .I really hope to see him in more films soon. His carefree attitude was "flamin'." The absolutely beautiful Jessica Alba played a role that made her invisible? How much sense does that make? I don't even mind Chris, my fiance, drooling over her because she is just a beautiful person. Although ladies, I must warn you that she is seen in only her underwear for a split second so your men may have a "special moment" during the film. I will have to control myself while discussing the last two characters. It really is difficult to choose who is more handsome and charming. Julian McMahon has had a special place in my heart since Charmed. I guess he is just "doomed" to always play the bad guy. Fortunately he has that smooth, sly demeanor that allows him to be so darn good at it.
Mr. Fantastic gets his own paragraph because Ioan Gruffudd deserves it and that is no "stretch" of the imagination. There is so much I could say. He had an endearingly sweet personality that made me just fall in love with Reed Richards, I didn't care that he was a science geek. I really do not feel that my words alone could possibly do Ioan justice so you must visit this site: www.ioanonline.com and look at the photo galleries. I love my fiance, but for a brief moment in time I would have given "all the tea in China" to be Mrs. Fantastic.
The plot was well put together and I liked how they handled the Thing's issues with his appearance. Even though the background to their mutations was a bunch of science mumbo-jumbo, I never felt lost or ignorant. These characters were easy to identify with even with their supernatural abilities. That is why I adore this movie like I do. I do hope for a sequel. There was even the small love plot which was the "icing on the cake." I encourage everyone to see and enjoy this film, and because of the love story I can still gage the quality in hearts. I easily give Fantastic Four 4 1/2 out of 5 hearts.
Note*The best way to bear the heat of a hot, Texas summer is with a Sonic Orange Cream Smoothie!
Now for the movie review:
I just saw The Fantastic Four. The only thing I really knew going in was that the cast was super hot and it was yet another Marvel Comic movie. The last comic movies I thoroughly enjoyed were the two X-Men films. Fantastic Four quickly jumped ahead of both of those movies. It really is kind of hard to compare them, but I was delightfully entertained by this movie. I laughed and at times I thought, "THAT WAS AWESOME!" Let us start with the cast. The Thing was of course the kick butt Michael Chiklis. I feel no one could have better "clobberin'" moments in any movie, and I will always love "the commish." Chris Evans. . .I really hope to see him in more films soon. His carefree attitude was "flamin'." The absolutely beautiful Jessica Alba played a role that made her invisible? How much sense does that make? I don't even mind Chris, my fiance, drooling over her because she is just a beautiful person. Although ladies, I must warn you that she is seen in only her underwear for a split second so your men may have a "special moment" during the film. I will have to control myself while discussing the last two characters. It really is difficult to choose who is more handsome and charming. Julian McMahon has had a special place in my heart since Charmed. I guess he is just "doomed" to always play the bad guy. Fortunately he has that smooth, sly demeanor that allows him to be so darn good at it.
Mr. Fantastic gets his own paragraph because Ioan Gruffudd deserves it and that is no "stretch" of the imagination. There is so much I could say. He had an endearingly sweet personality that made me just fall in love with Reed Richards, I didn't care that he was a science geek. I really do not feel that my words alone could possibly do Ioan justice so you must visit this site: www.ioanonline.com and look at the photo galleries. I love my fiance, but for a brief moment in time I would have given "all the tea in China" to be Mrs. Fantastic.
The plot was well put together and I liked how they handled the Thing's issues with his appearance. Even though the background to their mutations was a bunch of science mumbo-jumbo, I never felt lost or ignorant. These characters were easy to identify with even with their supernatural abilities. That is why I adore this movie like I do. I do hope for a sequel. There was even the small love plot which was the "icing on the cake." I encourage everyone to see and enjoy this film, and because of the love story I can still gage the quality in hearts. I easily give Fantastic Four 4 1/2 out of 5 hearts.
Tickled Pink
That's right, I have an official theme for my wedding shower! "Tickled Pink" adequately describes my entire look at the shower and wedding. Now I just have to sit back and mark off the days in anticipation of these events. Perhaps the best part of having the wedding is being able to include people that I care deeply about and am glad to have in my life. The worst part is definitely the guest list.
We reserved a room that holds 180 people. All the walls are tall glass windows that open up to the patio and pool. (Trust me, I still have my concern about drinking around a pool at the wedding.) I figured that if the list stayed at about 210 we would be fine because the customary some odd percent would not show anyway. I have cut off my mother and my fiance from making new friends. Between the two of them I had to had 20 people to my list today. I guess it is a good and bad thing to know some many people who want to share in this day.
More good news, we have made deposits for every single aspect of the wedding. All this means is that we have a butt load of people to finish paying on or before the wedding day. I am praying that everyone will show up on time. . . actually I am praying that everyone will show up period.
Tonight was full of good food and musical entertainment. The restaurant tonight, Greenvile Avenue Bar and Grill, was beyond appetite pleasing. I would love to make that a regular eatery, but it is a little pricey. Three of my friends have a band called Sum of all Beers. They performed at a club in Dallas. Chris and I went for a little while, but the smoke became too much and we went home to relax.
I am still carless. I will not have my baby back until Monday, but Chris let me borrow his car till then. Great, that's all I need. . .Now I can panic about wrecking in his car.
We plan on seeing The Fantastic Four Saturday night so I will have another movie review soon.
We reserved a room that holds 180 people. All the walls are tall glass windows that open up to the patio and pool. (Trust me, I still have my concern about drinking around a pool at the wedding.) I figured that if the list stayed at about 210 we would be fine because the customary some odd percent would not show anyway. I have cut off my mother and my fiance from making new friends. Between the two of them I had to had 20 people to my list today. I guess it is a good and bad thing to know some many people who want to share in this day.
More good news, we have made deposits for every single aspect of the wedding. All this means is that we have a butt load of people to finish paying on or before the wedding day. I am praying that everyone will show up on time. . . actually I am praying that everyone will show up period.
Tonight was full of good food and musical entertainment. The restaurant tonight, Greenvile Avenue Bar and Grill, was beyond appetite pleasing. I would love to make that a regular eatery, but it is a little pricey. Three of my friends have a band called Sum of all Beers. They performed at a club in Dallas. Chris and I went for a little while, but the smoke became too much and we went home to relax.
I am still carless. I will not have my baby back until Monday, but Chris let me borrow his car till then. Great, that's all I need. . .Now I can panic about wrecking in his car.
We plan on seeing The Fantastic Four Saturday night so I will have another movie review soon.
Thursday, July 07, 2005
I'm Back!
Good evening Dallas, Texas! Boy is it good to be back. I had a lot of fun with my family, but I remembered why I despise car trips. We almost made it through the entire trip without a mom versus dad screeming match in the car. It happened on the way home when we tried to get on 35 North. Let's just say that I will never force my children into a car trip. Flying is the way to go!
Sea World was a day of fun in the hot, hot sun! Did you know that it is not only the home of Shamu, but it houses a couple of awesome rollercoasters and a full waterpark. We all wore our swimsuits and we all went to Sea World dry and we all left Sea World soaking wet from top to bottom. It was a blast and I got some more sun.
The Shamu show was what I expected, but it was only 15 minutes long. I guess when you are the star of the theme park then you can afford to have a 15 minute show. I really wanted to see the beluga whales, also known as the canaries of the sea, and they were in the diving show. I absolutely love them! I really wanted a picture with them, but I thought the only whale that posed for photographs was Shamu. I was wrong! I found out later that they stopped beluga pictures after the show before the one I saw. Woe is me. I had to settle for a beluga whale t-shirt and beach towel.
Downtown San Antonio also contains El Mercado. It was the nicest Mexican flea market set up I have ever seen. Next to it was Mi Terra a super delicious restaurant with the BEST queso I have tasted in my 24 years of life. Give me a spoon, a bowl of the queso, and look out!
All in all it was a decent family trip. I definitely feel that three days was plenty. I was getting tired of sleeping with ear plugs. (Yes I said 'ear plugs.' You sleep in the same room as my parents and then tell me their snoring doesn't create a need for ear protection.) I know Katelyn, my sister, was beyond her family time limit. I just hope she realizes what family really can mean some day. I guess I just worry too much about my parents, but most would if their mother turned to them with tears in her eyes and said, "I would be lost without you." I know I would be lost if anything happened to her. Of course I feel the same about my dad:).
No movies again, although I saw a very riveting episode of Between the Lions this morning on PBS.
Sea World was a day of fun in the hot, hot sun! Did you know that it is not only the home of Shamu, but it houses a couple of awesome rollercoasters and a full waterpark. We all wore our swimsuits and we all went to Sea World dry and we all left Sea World soaking wet from top to bottom. It was a blast and I got some more sun.
The Shamu show was what I expected, but it was only 15 minutes long. I guess when you are the star of the theme park then you can afford to have a 15 minute show. I really wanted to see the beluga whales, also known as the canaries of the sea, and they were in the diving show. I absolutely love them! I really wanted a picture with them, but I thought the only whale that posed for photographs was Shamu. I was wrong! I found out later that they stopped beluga pictures after the show before the one I saw. Woe is me. I had to settle for a beluga whale t-shirt and beach towel.
Downtown San Antonio also contains El Mercado. It was the nicest Mexican flea market set up I have ever seen. Next to it was Mi Terra a super delicious restaurant with the BEST queso I have tasted in my 24 years of life. Give me a spoon, a bowl of the queso, and look out!
All in all it was a decent family trip. I definitely feel that three days was plenty. I was getting tired of sleeping with ear plugs. (Yes I said 'ear plugs.' You sleep in the same room as my parents and then tell me their snoring doesn't create a need for ear protection.) I know Katelyn, my sister, was beyond her family time limit. I just hope she realizes what family really can mean some day. I guess I just worry too much about my parents, but most would if their mother turned to them with tears in her eyes and said, "I would be lost without you." I know I would be lost if anything happened to her. Of course I feel the same about my dad:).
No movies again, although I saw a very riveting episode of Between the Lions this morning on PBS.
Monday, July 04, 2005
Instant mashed potatoes
HAPPY 4TH OF JULY! It is late and I am preparing for our family vacation so I may keep this short.
I get to drop my car off in the morning at 7 A.M. Good thing I took it easy on the liquor so that I can get up early enough to drop my car off at 7 A.M. I decided that I would let my fiance do the drinkin' tonight since he has to go back to work tomorrow and he will be taking care of my dog while we're gone. I bought him his own little bottle of Maker's Mark and some Coke. He was very happy, especially since I made all his drinks and they were a bit strong.
We went to a friend's house (they recently invested in a dog the size of a horse) in Lewisville to celebrate with food and friends. The deal was to bring a side and someone brought a dish that looked like cream of rice cereal. It turned out that they were mashed potatoes, but he had used the instant potato flakes. Though the skepticism was high, the potatoes were awesome! I had seconds. We didn't get to see fireworks, but I was glad I had the chance to share the fourth with friends.
This day was all around awesome. I was able to spend the morning half with my buddy, Jess, and we went shopping! That is some serious female bonding that men will never understand. It always helps to have a friend's honest opinion when buying clothing. I got a vibrant red dress! I look absolutely amazing in it (sure that is a biased statement what you gonna do about it?) and cannot wait until something interesting happens that would call for me to wear a dress like that. Jess was getting stuff for a cruise. I'm so jealous, but I know she'll have a blast. I can wait to see pictures.
I must get some sleep. I hope I find my dang earphones to my I-pod mini before we leave. I won't be able to write until my return so I will miss thee till then. San Antonio here we come!
I get to drop my car off in the morning at 7 A.M. Good thing I took it easy on the liquor so that I can get up early enough to drop my car off at 7 A.M. I decided that I would let my fiance do the drinkin' tonight since he has to go back to work tomorrow and he will be taking care of my dog while we're gone. I bought him his own little bottle of Maker's Mark and some Coke. He was very happy, especially since I made all his drinks and they were a bit strong.
We went to a friend's house (they recently invested in a dog the size of a horse) in Lewisville to celebrate with food and friends. The deal was to bring a side and someone brought a dish that looked like cream of rice cereal. It turned out that they were mashed potatoes, but he had used the instant potato flakes. Though the skepticism was high, the potatoes were awesome! I had seconds. We didn't get to see fireworks, but I was glad I had the chance to share the fourth with friends.
This day was all around awesome. I was able to spend the morning half with my buddy, Jess, and we went shopping! That is some serious female bonding that men will never understand. It always helps to have a friend's honest opinion when buying clothing. I got a vibrant red dress! I look absolutely amazing in it (sure that is a biased statement what you gonna do about it?) and cannot wait until something interesting happens that would call for me to wear a dress like that. Jess was getting stuff for a cruise. I'm so jealous, but I know she'll have a blast. I can wait to see pictures.
I must get some sleep. I hope I find my dang earphones to my I-pod mini before we leave. I won't be able to write until my return so I will miss thee till then. San Antonio here we come!
Sunday, July 03, 2005
Pre-4th Excitement
The best part about being Texan is the great tan I can get during the summer. I'm hoping that I'll have a nice even tone to my skin by my wedding. The bronzer is working out wonderfully! My Mary Kay consultant is a genius.
Church was great today. I really enjoyed the talk about having a child's mind with regards to faith. Lunch was at Panera after Mass and it was perfect. There was not a huge crowd, the food was served quickly, and the food was delicious. I'm starting to really favor all the "upscale" sandwich shops. If you are at Corner Bakery, order the Uptown Turkey, as a matter of fact I really like turkey and swiss with cold sandwiches. For good hot sandwiches I recommend Which Wich because ordering on the bags is fun and the pastrami is excellent.
I came home and worked on wedding ceremony stuff. It turns out that the wedding is under three months away and I have not adjusted my mind for that yet. With such a long engagement I have been able to be kind of relaxed about planning. Now I'm too relaxed and the day is fast approaching. Thank God I have my wedding angels looking out for me to keep me on track! Friendship is something I am glad I will always be blessed with in my life.
So today I went to a pool party in Richardson, the city I hate. The atmosphere was fun and the people knew how to PAR-TEE. You just can't go wrong with alcohol and swimming. I discovered the coolest thing ever! A floating bar and chairs for the swimming pool was in the middle of the water. The chairs were comfy for those that could balance, Chris, my fiance, was bad at this, and the bar had places for drinks and ice chests. I will be heading to Bed, Bath, and Beyond to pick one up. I'm spoiled now because Chris has a pool at his condo. We will have to have a pool when we get a house.
I got home and was expecting the place to be the cool 73 degrees that my dad keeps the thermostat at, but to my surprise it was hotter inside than outside. At 9:00 P.M. my father was installing a new air conditioning unit! The fun part came when my mother was outside with him and one cell phone talking to me, who was inside at the thermostat, on another cell phone. Nothing brings a family together like Texas heat and a busted AC unit. I think I will be sleeping in the refrigerator tonight. Whoever said, "What doesn't kill you makes you stronger," obviously lived near an arctic circle.
No movie tonight, but perhaps a favorite poem of mine from Disney's version of The Reluctant Dragon:
Poor little upside down cake
Problems, yep, you gottem,
Because little upside down cake
Your Top is on your Bottom.
Oh little upside down cake
Your woes will never stop,
Dear, sweet little upside down cake
For your Bottom is your Top.
Thank you, thank you, I'll be here all week! Don't forget to tip your waitress.
Church was great today. I really enjoyed the talk about having a child's mind with regards to faith. Lunch was at Panera after Mass and it was perfect. There was not a huge crowd, the food was served quickly, and the food was delicious. I'm starting to really favor all the "upscale" sandwich shops. If you are at Corner Bakery, order the Uptown Turkey, as a matter of fact I really like turkey and swiss with cold sandwiches. For good hot sandwiches I recommend Which Wich because ordering on the bags is fun and the pastrami is excellent.
I came home and worked on wedding ceremony stuff. It turns out that the wedding is under three months away and I have not adjusted my mind for that yet. With such a long engagement I have been able to be kind of relaxed about planning. Now I'm too relaxed and the day is fast approaching. Thank God I have my wedding angels looking out for me to keep me on track! Friendship is something I am glad I will always be blessed with in my life.
So today I went to a pool party in Richardson, the city I hate. The atmosphere was fun and the people knew how to PAR-TEE. You just can't go wrong with alcohol and swimming. I discovered the coolest thing ever! A floating bar and chairs for the swimming pool was in the middle of the water. The chairs were comfy for those that could balance, Chris, my fiance, was bad at this, and the bar had places for drinks and ice chests. I will be heading to Bed, Bath, and Beyond to pick one up. I'm spoiled now because Chris has a pool at his condo. We will have to have a pool when we get a house.
I got home and was expecting the place to be the cool 73 degrees that my dad keeps the thermostat at, but to my surprise it was hotter inside than outside. At 9:00 P.M. my father was installing a new air conditioning unit! The fun part came when my mother was outside with him and one cell phone talking to me, who was inside at the thermostat, on another cell phone. Nothing brings a family together like Texas heat and a busted AC unit. I think I will be sleeping in the refrigerator tonight. Whoever said, "What doesn't kill you makes you stronger," obviously lived near an arctic circle.
No movie tonight, but perhaps a favorite poem of mine from Disney's version of The Reluctant Dragon:
Poor little upside down cake
Problems, yep, you gottem,
Because little upside down cake
Your Top is on your Bottom.
Oh little upside down cake
Your woes will never stop,
Dear, sweet little upside down cake
For your Bottom is your Top.
Thank you, thank you, I'll be here all week! Don't forget to tip your waitress.
Saturday, July 02, 2005
S-A-T-U-R-D-A-Y Night
Well, it is Saturday night and I plan on staying home with a good book. Actually I will be reading the books that are on the 9th grade reading list for the school I will be working at next year. I figure I can knock a couple out tonight and tomorrow. It is kind of sad, because I remember a time when I would get all dressed up and go out to live life. It just seems like I am shrinking away from life. I guess that is why I get so excited when I get to go to friends' parties. I am afraid of getting too comfortable with laying about or staying in. Another stupid fear is that I will stop being attractive or fun to my fiance. What if my vitality and ability to party, like a girl in her mid-20s should, is what he found so appealing in me? There is so much life to live and he has already lived a lot of it. How do I compete with that? I really do not think there is anything I could do that would be original to him. It doesn't sound like it should matter, but he is always exciting to me because I haven't experienced a lot of the same things. I love him so much and I hope he realizes that that will never change.
Okay, enough mushy notes that might induce vomiting in some:). I have no movie to review today, but I have a couple of things that really got under my skin. One: Today I was sitting in a drive through behind a car pulling a boat. How inconsiderate is that?! I mean really. I had to sit for ten minutes before I could even pull up just to order because the boat was sitting in front of the ordering board. Who pulls into a drive through with a boat?! Two: I was at a self car wash and a guy had all his car doors open and blasting horrific music. That's real nice jerk, subject decent people to the crap you listen to while we try to wash our cars in peace.
I suppose I could bake a cake while I do laundry before I read my books. I'm watching Law and Order: SVU and it is so addictive. Hmmm. . . my night keeps getting better and better. What I wouldn't give for a little excitement. . .
Okay, enough mushy notes that might induce vomiting in some:). I have no movie to review today, but I have a couple of things that really got under my skin. One: Today I was sitting in a drive through behind a car pulling a boat. How inconsiderate is that?! I mean really. I had to sit for ten minutes before I could even pull up just to order because the boat was sitting in front of the ordering board. Who pulls into a drive through with a boat?! Two: I was at a self car wash and a guy had all his car doors open and blasting horrific music. That's real nice jerk, subject decent people to the crap you listen to while we try to wash our cars in peace.
I suppose I could bake a cake while I do laundry before I read my books. I'm watching Law and Order: SVU and it is so addictive. Hmmm. . . my night keeps getting better and better. What I wouldn't give for a little excitement. . .
Ssstrike!
It is late and I did not do this earlier like I normally do. I will keep it short and sweet. (Then again maybe not.)
I received estimates for some small body damage to my brand new car. Let's just say that the dealership really likes to stick it to you! They wanted $1167 and I would be paying $683 out of pocket, because my deductible is $500 and since the estimate is over $1000 I would have $183 worth of surcharges. Me no likey so I got two more quotes. The next one was $843, and I could have lived with that. The last place we went estimated $670 and BINGO we had a winner! No need to file insurance here. My car will be out of service for four days, but I will take it in the day my family leaves for a three day vacation. Ha Ha! Talk about perfect timing. I can live with one day without a car.
I bowled tonight and did pretty good. 113 was my highest score and that is a vast improvement over my usual 45.
My fiance told me I needed to review Hitch because we watched it yesterday. I told him if I was going to review it I would have done it after I saw it in the theater months ago. He wins, so here is the review:
I love Will Smith and he can do no wrong or make bad movies, we are pretending that Wild, Wild West doesn't exist. Eva Mendes is gorgeous and sassy to balance out Smith's charm and wit. Kevin James is the real star of this show. Watch the dancing seen and you have to fall in love with him, or realize that white men should not dance in public. (Trust me on this, it really is a safety issue.) There are laughs and even a comedic misunderstanding. . . oh sorry, I had Three's Company in my head. . .There is a mix up and it really is a great observation about relationships. I think a real "date doctor" may not be a bad idea for some men so I'll give this one 4 out of 5 hearts.
I received estimates for some small body damage to my brand new car. Let's just say that the dealership really likes to stick it to you! They wanted $1167 and I would be paying $683 out of pocket, because my deductible is $500 and since the estimate is over $1000 I would have $183 worth of surcharges. Me no likey so I got two more quotes. The next one was $843, and I could have lived with that. The last place we went estimated $670 and BINGO we had a winner! No need to file insurance here. My car will be out of service for four days, but I will take it in the day my family leaves for a three day vacation. Ha Ha! Talk about perfect timing. I can live with one day without a car.
I bowled tonight and did pretty good. 113 was my highest score and that is a vast improvement over my usual 45.
My fiance told me I needed to review Hitch because we watched it yesterday. I told him if I was going to review it I would have done it after I saw it in the theater months ago. He wins, so here is the review:
I love Will Smith and he can do no wrong or make bad movies, we are pretending that Wild, Wild West doesn't exist. Eva Mendes is gorgeous and sassy to balance out Smith's charm and wit. Kevin James is the real star of this show. Watch the dancing seen and you have to fall in love with him, or realize that white men should not dance in public. (Trust me on this, it really is a safety issue.) There are laughs and even a comedic misunderstanding. . . oh sorry, I had Three's Company in my head. . .There is a mix up and it really is a great observation about relationships. I think a real "date doctor" may not be a bad idea for some men so I'll give this one 4 out of 5 hearts.
Thursday, June 30, 2005
Roses are red
I am so grateful that I have a cousin who works in a beauty salon. I called her up this morning and asked if she would wash, dry, and style my hair for me. Of course she said 'yes' and my hair looks amazing! No, I'm not incredibly lazy, but everyone has to admit how nice it feels to have your hair washed and dried in a salon. The best part is that it is free for me. I pay her in other ways. I just recently got her The Golden Girls Season One. We are both massive fans and she could not wait to watch all the episodes.
Today I also discovered that all the sun I am getting has darkened my skin a few shades more than my face. After a brief consultation with my Mary Kay Specialist, we decided I should just use a bronzer instead of a darker foundation.
My fiance and I had dinner at the San Francisco Rose off Greenville Avenue in Dallas. We met three of his colleagues from work and they were all my age. (Let's just say my fiance is significantly older than my age of 24.) As I conversed with all three very attractive women I began to worry. I did not worry that he would find them attractive, and I did not worry that he would want to date any of them. I worried because I thought, "If I come across as that clueless and juvenile, why would he want to be around me or even marry me?" The one thing I had to remember was that I am very mature for my age:). The food was fair, and my chicken bottom was burnt. Note to self: Don't eat dinner there again.
My review of Some Like It Hot: See White Chicks if you are looking for a close to same story line, but with more comedy. See Some Like It Hot if you prefer a classic black and white film starring the beautiful Marilyn Monroe. I enjoyed the movie and did get a few good laughs from the dialogue. My favorite part was reminding my drooling fiance that Marylin Monroe was, I believe, a size 14. He is still arguing the point that the average size for a woman today is a size 14 and not the food deprived, skeletal, silicon figures of most of Hollywood's leading actresses. (Yeah, I'm targeting Lindsay Lohan again.) Bottom line is that the film gets 3 out of 5 hearts.
Today I also discovered that all the sun I am getting has darkened my skin a few shades more than my face. After a brief consultation with my Mary Kay Specialist, we decided I should just use a bronzer instead of a darker foundation.
My fiance and I had dinner at the San Francisco Rose off Greenville Avenue in Dallas. We met three of his colleagues from work and they were all my age. (Let's just say my fiance is significantly older than my age of 24.) As I conversed with all three very attractive women I began to worry. I did not worry that he would find them attractive, and I did not worry that he would want to date any of them. I worried because I thought, "If I come across as that clueless and juvenile, why would he want to be around me or even marry me?" The one thing I had to remember was that I am very mature for my age:). The food was fair, and my chicken bottom was burnt. Note to self: Don't eat dinner there again.
My review of Some Like It Hot: See White Chicks if you are looking for a close to same story line, but with more comedy. See Some Like It Hot if you prefer a classic black and white film starring the beautiful Marilyn Monroe. I enjoyed the movie and did get a few good laughs from the dialogue. My favorite part was reminding my drooling fiance that Marylin Monroe was, I believe, a size 14. He is still arguing the point that the average size for a woman today is a size 14 and not the food deprived, skeletal, silicon figures of most of Hollywood's leading actresses. (Yeah, I'm targeting Lindsay Lohan again.) Bottom line is that the film gets 3 out of 5 hearts.
Wednesday, June 29, 2005
Bath and Body Works Heaven
I have come to accept the fact that today will be relatively uneventful. I actually woke up at 8:00 A.M. after a serious hard night's sleep. I give full credit to Earth Therapeutics Anti-Stress Massage Lotion with chamomile and lavender. You can pick it up at a Bed, Bath, and Beyond near you! My fiance doubted the magic of this miracle massage lotion, but I made him use it last night and he told me how well he slept. Do you still doubt?
The super best discovery I have made over the past two weeks is Bath and Body Works Body Conditioner. This stuff is a gift from Heaven! It is exactly what it says: a conditioner you rub over you body in the shower after you have washed. The goal is to make your skin softer with your favorite fragrance. (My personal scent is the Cotton Blossom.) Using this conditioner has eliminated the need to lotion up after a shower. I still tend to lotion the ole legs and feet, but that is because they tend to lean toward the dry side. Aside from giving me smooth and soft skin, I have the light fragrance of Cotton Blossom on all day. It is strong enough to tell it is there, but soft enough to hide if I put on perfume or a body mist. I highly urge everyone I know to try this, and with the current sale it is only $5.00/bottle. Man am I glad I got paid today! I will definitely be stocking up.
No movie to review today. I would have liked to discuss Collateral, but my fiance misunderstood his Comcast Digital Cable settings and recorded the movie en Espanol. I have no personal problems with the Spanish language, but I also do not understand any of it. I think we'll be renting Some Like it Hot tonight so check back for that review.
For any fellow Golden Girls fanatics, (I know we are few but we must stick together) have you ever notice the error in the age of Dorothy and Stan's first child. Throughout the whole show we are constantly reminded that Dorothy and Stan were married for 38 years. We also know that they had to get married because Dorothy was pregnant. So logic would stand that their son, Michael is at least 38 years old. If you watch every episode that contains Michael, he is always said to be in his mid-20s. Just a little something to think about.
The super best discovery I have made over the past two weeks is Bath and Body Works Body Conditioner. This stuff is a gift from Heaven! It is exactly what it says: a conditioner you rub over you body in the shower after you have washed. The goal is to make your skin softer with your favorite fragrance. (My personal scent is the Cotton Blossom.) Using this conditioner has eliminated the need to lotion up after a shower. I still tend to lotion the ole legs and feet, but that is because they tend to lean toward the dry side. Aside from giving me smooth and soft skin, I have the light fragrance of Cotton Blossom on all day. It is strong enough to tell it is there, but soft enough to hide if I put on perfume or a body mist. I highly urge everyone I know to try this, and with the current sale it is only $5.00/bottle. Man am I glad I got paid today! I will definitely be stocking up.
No movie to review today. I would have liked to discuss Collateral, but my fiance misunderstood his Comcast Digital Cable settings and recorded the movie en Espanol. I have no personal problems with the Spanish language, but I also do not understand any of it. I think we'll be renting Some Like it Hot tonight so check back for that review.
For any fellow Golden Girls fanatics, (I know we are few but we must stick together) have you ever notice the error in the age of Dorothy and Stan's first child. Throughout the whole show we are constantly reminded that Dorothy and Stan were married for 38 years. We also know that they had to get married because Dorothy was pregnant. So logic would stand that their son, Michael is at least 38 years old. If you watch every episode that contains Michael, he is always said to be in his mid-20s. Just a little something to think about.
Tuesday, June 28, 2005
Safety First!
I had a whole agenda of things to do today. Okay, so it wasn't so much "things" as a "thing" I had planned on getting done. Part of Texas certification for teaching requires a set of fingerprints to be cleared by the FBI. I never worried about this formality. I have led a clean life and have nothing to hide. Well, I had sent in three sets of prints and was going to get a fourth set made this morning because I had not heard about the status of the last set I sent in. I contacted the state and it turns out that because of certain circumstances, they can just do a background check on me with my name. Now, what is so wrong with doing this from the beginning? Last time I checked I knew of 60 other people having this one glitch that kept their certification from being mailed to them. I even heard that one lady drove to Austin herself to get things cleared up. The part that still "gets my goat" is when I hear commercials about a shortage of teachers in the state. It is all a bunch of baloney! Thanks to "No Child Left Behind" and a former govenor like Bush, no one is allowed to teach with a bachelor's alone. All those commercials about teaching with just a degree is hogwash. If all you have is a degree, your resume gets thrown on the bottom of the pile under the "alternative certification" resumes. I know this from experience. Teaching is a noble profession, but get certified in college and avoid the nightmare of finding a job.
Enough negativity. . .
Interesting quote of today: "Patience is the companion of wisdom." -Augustine
I find this quote interesting because I have zero patience with stupid people, and yet for some reason they continue to insist on breeding. I guess there has to be a balance somewhere because without idiots, the intelligent would have no way of gaging just how smart they are, and we would not want all that arrogance wasted.
Another movie to look at today: Bewitched. I was pleasantly surprised at how well this movie was put together. A truly avid original Bewitcher will be entertained by this take on the old sitcom. What people need to understand is that it is not a remake of the show with a Samantha and Darren. It is the story of Isabel and Paul, the two people that are going to be in the remake of the show in the movie. (Confusing I know, just go see it to understand.) Will Ferrell actually acts in the movie. Don't get me wrong, I love the SNL shtick as much as the next gal, but it was cool to see him play an attractive leading man. Nicole Kidman was fantastic at displaying the naivete of a witch in a human world. My fave part was the revenge she sought after Will's character's ex-wife. The award for best acted part must go to Steve Carell for playing Paul Lynde's take on Uncle Arthur. If you don't know who Paul Lynde is, rent Bye Bye Birdie and then Carell's performance will make all the sense in the world. No sex was needed to make this a comfortable, funny, and enjoyable romantic comedy. Yes, it is a good date movie: 4 out of 5 hearts.
Enough negativity. . .
Interesting quote of today: "Patience is the companion of wisdom." -Augustine
I find this quote interesting because I have zero patience with stupid people, and yet for some reason they continue to insist on breeding. I guess there has to be a balance somewhere because without idiots, the intelligent would have no way of gaging just how smart they are, and we would not want all that arrogance wasted.
Another movie to look at today: Bewitched. I was pleasantly surprised at how well this movie was put together. A truly avid original Bewitcher will be entertained by this take on the old sitcom. What people need to understand is that it is not a remake of the show with a Samantha and Darren. It is the story of Isabel and Paul, the two people that are going to be in the remake of the show in the movie. (Confusing I know, just go see it to understand.) Will Ferrell actually acts in the movie. Don't get me wrong, I love the SNL shtick as much as the next gal, but it was cool to see him play an attractive leading man. Nicole Kidman was fantastic at displaying the naivete of a witch in a human world. My fave part was the revenge she sought after Will's character's ex-wife. The award for best acted part must go to Steve Carell for playing Paul Lynde's take on Uncle Arthur. If you don't know who Paul Lynde is, rent Bye Bye Birdie and then Carell's performance will make all the sense in the world. No sex was needed to make this a comfortable, funny, and enjoyable romantic comedy. Yes, it is a good date movie: 4 out of 5 hearts.
Monday, June 27, 2005
The Perfect Man Huh?
Well it's summer time and, as a high school educator, I am taking full advantage of my summer off. Today I found myself at the movie theater watching The Perfect Man. As a romantic comedy addict, I fell in love with this movie. I spared my fiance the pain and did not take him, but he did observe, from the previews, that he could not understand why any man would dump Heather Locklear. I found it more upsetting that Heather Locklear has gone from the devastatingly gorgeous young woman to the desperate, aging mother. Where is the justice in a world that will still cast Sean Connery with women half his age, but poor ole Heather has to play a woman intent on dating whatever crossed her path?
The movie itself was the "cookie cutter" formula of all chick flicks. My favorite part was Hilary Duff. Yes I admit it, I have to back my fellow Texan, I am a minor Hilary fan. Maybe it is because I teach teens and it amuses me to see who their role models are, for the girls anyway, and why they admire them. Not to mention that any force in this universe that can balance out the evil that is Lindsay Lohan is more than welcome to me. That's right, I admit that I despise Lohan openly as well.
As for Duff's leading man, the character "Adam" was the cutie-patootie that is expected in a film of this caliber. The thing that drove me nuts the entire film was trying to decide who he reminded me of or if I had seen him in anything before. I am one of those that can go nutty when I am trying to place actors in other movies.
It is nice to find a movie every now and then that doesn't require a lot of emotion or thinking. I left feeling good about life and very satisfied with that "happy ending" atmosphere.
I would definitely give The Perfect Man 3 out of 5 Hearts.
The movie itself was the "cookie cutter" formula of all chick flicks. My favorite part was Hilary Duff. Yes I admit it, I have to back my fellow Texan, I am a minor Hilary fan. Maybe it is because I teach teens and it amuses me to see who their role models are, for the girls anyway, and why they admire them. Not to mention that any force in this universe that can balance out the evil that is Lindsay Lohan is more than welcome to me. That's right, I admit that I despise Lohan openly as well.
As for Duff's leading man, the character "Adam" was the cutie-patootie that is expected in a film of this caliber. The thing that drove me nuts the entire film was trying to decide who he reminded me of or if I had seen him in anything before. I am one of those that can go nutty when I am trying to place actors in other movies.
It is nice to find a movie every now and then that doesn't require a lot of emotion or thinking. I left feeling good about life and very satisfied with that "happy ending" atmosphere.
I would definitely give The Perfect Man 3 out of 5 Hearts.
