The end of the school day is quickly approaching and I know that if I don't blog now, I won't blog later.
Some monumental events have occurred over the past two weeks. I joined a health club and signed on with a personal trainer. I have yet to regret my decision even though my body is planning a mutiny some time soon:). I was given a meal plan with foods that I would not touch with a 100,000 foot pole. I looked at my calorie count and I am allowed 1400 a day. I figured that as long as I stay under that number, I could modify my eating habits to include foods that don't taste like cardboard or Styrofoam. I just pray to God that I see results eventually and that my $600 was not spent in vain.
Number two cool thing to happen: I attended a workshop on teaching about the Holocaust. It never occurred to me that all these facets were involved in that period of history. There are so many things to look at and people to study. My favorite was a session on "Myths and Misconceptions." We got to speak with two survivors and had a teleconference with the actual United States Holocaust Memorial Museum (www.ushmm.org) in Washington D.C. The neatest fact was the Jerry Springer-esque involvement that Hitler's paternal grandmother had with two different brothers (one being her husband), thus clouding the validity of Hitler's bloodline. I was able to reunite with an old high school chum, she was attending the conference for another high school in my district, and we had a great time.
Last Wednesday my husband and I attended a private screening of Firewall. This is Harrison Ford's new action movie. If the screening had not been free, I would have demanded my money back. There are already a slew of Harrison Ford movies where someone is in jeopardy and he has to fight his way to save him/her. I did not feel a single thing for any of his family members and wished they would have died to spice up the ending. The only character that drew any attention from me was the antagonist played by the marvelous Paul Bettany. The underlying message of the movie was to be aware of identity theft, but my message is to: SEE ANOTHER MOVIE. It wasn't a total waste of time, because the great Harrison Ford was there in person to answer questions after the film ended. He looks great for a guy in his mid 60s. In all honesty, I truly love him, I mean, could you picture anyone else playing Han Solo or ole Indiana? He also has no delusions about acting as an art. He understands that he is handed a script, does his job, and goes home at the end of the day. He enjoys what he does and respects all aspects of the film making industry. Mr. Ford is definitely on my "cool guy" list.
I had a "girl's night out" with one of my dearest friends and we rented a movie called St. Ralph. Everyone see this movie! In fact, rent this instead of paying to see Firewall. This movie captured the essence of a young man in a Catholic school being told to forget about believing in miracles. He wants to win the Boston Marathon, which would be a miracle, and use that miracle to save his mother who is in a coma. Being a devout Catholic, I loved the way everything was handled and the actor who played Ralph was simply adorable. My friend said it best when she told me that when the movie was over, it would be one of my favorites. It just plain makes you feel good inside. 4 out of 4 hearts for this warm and fuzzy masterpiece.
Now for the biggie: I MET THE GREAT GONZO! That's right, I met Dave Goelz the voice of Gonzo and Dr. Bunsen Honeydew from the Muppets and the voice of Boober Fraggle. Those close to me know about my devout adoration for Jim Henson, what he stood for, all he did, and the legacy that carries on after his death. The chance to meet one of the original "muppeteers" had me all a flutter and shaking like a 5 year old on her first day of school. I wasn't sure it was going to work out. My husband and I went to the theater, where they were showing three unaired episodes of Fraggle Rock, to purchase tickets and meet Mr. Goelz. Unfortunately they sold out of tickets ten people in front of us and I cried all the way back to the car.
When I got home, I decided that that was not going to be good enough. I mustered up the courage to go back up to the theater and ask if I could just meet Mr. Goelz after the movie. Not only did they say 'yes,' but they also let me in the theater and sat me right in front of him! Karen Prell, Red Fraggle and the worm from Labyrinth, was also in attendance so my adrenaline was flying all over my body. After the show, I was led to the very front of the autograph line and was the first to meet these two muppet icons! Some memories will be with me forever and this will definitely be one of them.
I hope this blog was a bit inspiring to show a little courage now and then and to always keep an open mind, even when it is being turned to mush by a bad movie:).
Tuesday, January 31, 2006
Saturday, January 14, 2006
Before Romeo and Juliet . . .
there was Tristan and Isolde, and quite possibly original storylines. I'm not saying the movie was a total bust, but I have seen versions of "forbidden love" done much better. A movie goer definitely feels the entire 125 minutes of the movie. James Franco as delectable eye candy couldn't even convince me that my $7.50 ticket was worth it.
Aside for my lapse in movie picking judgment, my Saturday has been relative stress free. My husband is busy "earning" money in Vegas for a couple of days so I'm taking full advantage of the big screen television. To my surprise, it has yet to combust due to the football playoffs not being viewed on it.
I actually just finished watching Miracle. Of all the sporting events in history, that is one I wish I could have been alive to see when it happened. Now I'm deciding which of my movies to watch next. It could be an inspirational teaching movie, due to the fact 20/20 showed just how far behind the US is in education. It's times like these, I feel like I picked a failing profession. What kills me is that everyone is aware of how crappy teachers have it and that the system is what is failing the kids, but no one wants to do anything about it. My own mother was furious at the suggestion that I educate my children outside the states.
Well, I just baked a cake and it is ready to be iced and eaten. Sorry this is relatively short, my life has been relatively uneventful.
Aside for my lapse in movie picking judgment, my Saturday has been relative stress free. My husband is busy "earning" money in Vegas for a couple of days so I'm taking full advantage of the big screen television. To my surprise, it has yet to combust due to the football playoffs not being viewed on it.
I actually just finished watching Miracle. Of all the sporting events in history, that is one I wish I could have been alive to see when it happened. Now I'm deciding which of my movies to watch next. It could be an inspirational teaching movie, due to the fact 20/20 showed just how far behind the US is in education. It's times like these, I feel like I picked a failing profession. What kills me is that everyone is aware of how crappy teachers have it and that the system is what is failing the kids, but no one wants to do anything about it. My own mother was furious at the suggestion that I educate my children outside the states.
Well, I just baked a cake and it is ready to be iced and eaten. Sorry this is relatively short, my life has been relatively uneventful.
Monday, November 07, 2005
Many Moons
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.
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.
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.
