Thanksgiving is just around the corner! Hard to believe that summer (& fall!) has come and gone so quickly. Where does the time go? It's so easy to get caught up in the daily stresses and events that we sometimes forget to stop and reflect on everything that we have to be thankful for. Since I make my students make lists and reflect on what they are thankful for, I figured I should probably do the same. So, here goes...my list of things that I'm continually thankful for:
-Family. Those near & far. My dad's side of the family will be spending this Thanksgiving with us. It doesn't happen often so I am so happy to see them.
-Friends. Let's be honest...when #1 on the list starts to get on your last nerve, it's good to have your friends there. My friends are family to me, so I could have included them in the first section.
-A job that I love. Some days it's the reason for my tears and stress, but through all the mess I feel so lucky to have 40 little friends in my life every single day. The little quirks that they have and funny things that they say remind me that sometimes it's OK not to take life too seriously. They are sunshine in my life each day.
-Good health. I feel so blessed that myself, friends, and family are all in good health and spirits. How fortunate we all are.
-The ability to travel & get away from the daily grind.
-Pretty weather. Blue skies & sunshine.
-Changing seasons. I love the changing of the leaves, the crispness in the air, and the Dallas snow that sometimes graces us :)
-my cute family dog, Beau :)
-Wine. Sometimes all you need is a glass of wine to clean up the mess that comes your way. Seems silly, but this year it's been especially true!
-A nice place to live, equipped with electricity. A 'power-free' lifestyle would bore me to tears.
-Technology. It makes everything easier. I'm addicted.
-The written word. Good books, quotes, magazines. Very relaxing!
-Laughter!
-Continuing education--still workin on that master's degree! Thankful to have the ability to do so.
I've got lots to be thankful for...some silly, some serious. But it's nice to stop every now and then remember that life is truly a wonderful gift.
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Monday, November 1, 2010
Vegas Vacation
I took Friday last week and Monday (today) off of work to venture out to Vegas with friends. Kris & I flew out Friday morning at 11 and met up with Tiffany, Hunter, Greg, Jen, and Mark in Vegas around 12:30. We had a great time walking around the city, checking out all the sights, sounds, hotels/casinos that day. It ended up with the guys gambling a hella stash of cash away and the girls sitting at the penny slots and gossiping while we waited for them to finish. Friday night Tiffany made reservations for us to eat dinner at Tao in the Venetian. The food was amazing and it was a lot of fun. My only complaint was that the food came out about 5 minutes after we ordered-a la El Fenix style. You would think that a fancy Vegas restaurant would have more of an ambiance and experience style than a wham-bam-thank-you-maam feel. But, the food was still great, so whether they unwrapped a package, microwaved it, or just prepare it hours in advance, it's working for them so far!
We went to the Beatles Love Cirque de Soleil show at the Mirage and it was AMAZING. I can't even begin to describe it, but everyone needs to see it. The acts were mind-blowing and it was another great way to start our trip.
Being Halloween weekend, everywhere was crazy busy so we opted to come back to Tao that night to go out. (If you eat dinner at the restaurant, you get stamped to come back for free.) The inside of Tao was really cool and we felt special since we got to cut in front of the line & Kim Kardashian went there for her bday-obvi. But, it was PACKED inside as well and not surprisingly, drink prices were astronomical. After 1 drink, Greg & Jen being annoyed by the crowd, Hunter being too drunk causing him and Tiffany to leave, and losing Mark, Kris and I decided that 2 of us in a pack of strangers with $15 drinks was not the optimal location so we bailed. Plus, my feet had taken a beating from the miles of walking in heels. Someone really should put out a warning that places on the strip are "walking distance in flats." So, we headed back to the hotel to hang out at some local places. Greg was adamant about eating the $5.99 steak & eggs which was sketchy to say the least. But, the comments regarding steak and eggs made me laugh.
On Saturday, we toured the strip some more, saw the lions at the MGM Grand, checked out New York New York, gambled a little, walked through the Bellagio, and went into Planet Hollywood. We got to watch the Rangers and college football games at a sports bar in Bally's. It was fun just to hang out and enjoy some time together. Saturday night we all dressed up and went to a piano bar in New York New York. Our trip had been pretty smooth--no weird stories, occurrences, or any chinks in the vacay chain.
But then there was Sunday, about 15 minutes before we're supposed to leave for the airport. I start digging through my purse, only to realize I have no clue where my car/apt keys are. I freak out (in typical 'me' fashion) and head back to the hotel to see if I left them in there. I wait in line, Kris has to come in to show an ID for the room, and we sprint up to the room to tear it apart to find the keys. No such luck. Meanwhile, Tiffany and Mark are waiting in the cab line and we were supposed to leave for the airport about 20 minutes ago. We hop in, keys not found, and head to the airport. In typical 'me' fashion, I continue to freak out for the next 6 hours on the trip. When we get back to Kris' where my car is, I dump out my suitcase, only to find my keys in the very first pocket that I unzip. Oops. The good news is, I found them! The bad news, I may have potentially scarred my friends from traveling with me :)
Cute lions!
Dinner @ Tao
Mark Senior as the "blue barracuda" from Legends of the Hidden Temple! Greatness
Right before I told him that if he didn't stop "being in character" that I wouldn't take any more pictures :) dressed as cops (or CSI as everyone called us) for Halloween.
Spandex. Superman. Enough said.
We went to the Beatles Love Cirque de Soleil show at the Mirage and it was AMAZING. I can't even begin to describe it, but everyone needs to see it. The acts were mind-blowing and it was another great way to start our trip.
Being Halloween weekend, everywhere was crazy busy so we opted to come back to Tao that night to go out. (If you eat dinner at the restaurant, you get stamped to come back for free.) The inside of Tao was really cool and we felt special since we got to cut in front of the line & Kim Kardashian went there for her bday-obvi. But, it was PACKED inside as well and not surprisingly, drink prices were astronomical. After 1 drink, Greg & Jen being annoyed by the crowd, Hunter being too drunk causing him and Tiffany to leave, and losing Mark, Kris and I decided that 2 of us in a pack of strangers with $15 drinks was not the optimal location so we bailed. Plus, my feet had taken a beating from the miles of walking in heels. Someone really should put out a warning that places on the strip are "walking distance in flats." So, we headed back to the hotel to hang out at some local places. Greg was adamant about eating the $5.99 steak & eggs which was sketchy to say the least. But, the comments regarding steak and eggs made me laugh.
On Saturday, we toured the strip some more, saw the lions at the MGM Grand, checked out New York New York, gambled a little, walked through the Bellagio, and went into Planet Hollywood. We got to watch the Rangers and college football games at a sports bar in Bally's. It was fun just to hang out and enjoy some time together. Saturday night we all dressed up and went to a piano bar in New York New York. Our trip had been pretty smooth--no weird stories, occurrences, or any chinks in the vacay chain.
But then there was Sunday, about 15 minutes before we're supposed to leave for the airport. I start digging through my purse, only to realize I have no clue where my car/apt keys are. I freak out (in typical 'me' fashion) and head back to the hotel to see if I left them in there. I wait in line, Kris has to come in to show an ID for the room, and we sprint up to the room to tear it apart to find the keys. No such luck. Meanwhile, Tiffany and Mark are waiting in the cab line and we were supposed to leave for the airport about 20 minutes ago. We hop in, keys not found, and head to the airport. In typical 'me' fashion, I continue to freak out for the next 6 hours on the trip. When we get back to Kris' where my car is, I dump out my suitcase, only to find my keys in the very first pocket that I unzip. Oops. The good news is, I found them! The bad news, I may have potentially scarred my friends from traveling with me :)
Cute lions!
Dinner @ Tao
Mark Senior as the "blue barracuda" from Legends of the Hidden Temple! Greatness
Right before I told him that if he didn't stop "being in character" that I wouldn't take any more pictures :) dressed as cops (or CSI as everyone called us) for Halloween.
Spandex. Superman. Enough said.
Sunday, October 10, 2010
Many thanks to Columbus
This long weekend has been AMAZING. It's incredible what an extra couple of days can do for the soul. It has been a long ride so far this year so I am thankful for a couple of days to recharge and prepare to hit the ground running again. This past week started the month-long trend of 4-day weeks for me. Sounds like the perfect month to me!
After an early day on Friday of parent-teacher conferences, I went to the State Fair of Texas with Kris. We had such a blast. We didn't eat nearly as much as I thought we would, but I decided when you're surrounded by all sorts of fried stuff, it's difficult to figure out what to eat. So, I settled on mostly drinking and threw in a corn dog for good measure. We watched the pig races with Tiff & Hujo, saw some fireworks, marveled at the "exotic birds of the world" that flew out of the Ferris wheel, paddled around on a swan, and even tackled the Ferris wheel itself. Riding the Ferris wheel was probably the big feat of the night, or year. Kris and I are both terrified of heights, which leads me to wonder why did we even contemplate doing it in the first place? I thought we were going to be super awkward the whole time throughout the ride and not talk due to fear and anxiety, but it ended up being a pleasant experience. Plus, the view of the fair at nighttime was so pretty! Overall it was a great time.
Carnies + signs = spelling fail
Trying not to look scared! Also, the man taking this picture apparently has never used a camera because he blocked half the flash leaving an awkward shadow. But, the important part is we have evidence of riding.
Hope everyone had an enjoyable, low-key weekend!
After an early day on Friday of parent-teacher conferences, I went to the State Fair of Texas with Kris. We had such a blast. We didn't eat nearly as much as I thought we would, but I decided when you're surrounded by all sorts of fried stuff, it's difficult to figure out what to eat. So, I settled on mostly drinking and threw in a corn dog for good measure. We watched the pig races with Tiff & Hujo, saw some fireworks, marveled at the "exotic birds of the world" that flew out of the Ferris wheel, paddled around on a swan, and even tackled the Ferris wheel itself. Riding the Ferris wheel was probably the big feat of the night, or year. Kris and I are both terrified of heights, which leads me to wonder why did we even contemplate doing it in the first place? I thought we were going to be super awkward the whole time throughout the ride and not talk due to fear and anxiety, but it ended up being a pleasant experience. Plus, the view of the fair at nighttime was so pretty! Overall it was a great time.
Carnies + signs = spelling fail
Trying not to look scared! Also, the man taking this picture apparently has never used a camera because he blocked half the flash leaving an awkward shadow. But, the important part is we have evidence of riding.
Hope everyone had an enjoyable, low-key weekend!
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Counting down
Yes, I'm already counting down to my next vacation. I don't know which is closer...the amount of time past since the first day of school, or the amount of time until my next vacation. Sad? Yes. True? Absolutely. But you know, the things I experience day-to-day this year just make me shake my head, cry a little inside, and try to conceal the bags under my eyes. I think for the first time, I can truly appreciate a vacation, a mental break, a re-boot.
This weekend is OU/tx. It's always such a fun weekend, yet somewhat depressing. OU/tx when you're in college is much different than when you're out. And it's scary to think that it's been 3 years since we experienced a "college ou/tx." But, it's still a blast and fun to re-connect with college friends and relive a weekend of debauchery that you can no longer recover from. Yes, the days of the brutal hangover are here to stay, my friends. Let's all take a moment of silence to mourn the days of hangover-free insanity.
On that note, it's a good thing that the following work week will be a 4-day week because I will need the time to recover. I'm looking forward to the game this weekend, Eli Young concert on Saturday after the game, and going to the fair the following week. Then it's only a couple of short weeks until VEGAS. Hopefully something fun/funny will occur sometime in the next month so I'll actually have a reason to stop slacking on the blog. Writing about the complaints of the daily grind gets kinda old, if ya know what I mean.
Get outside and enjoy the fall weather while it lasts! I'm holding on to every last bit of cool weather and sunny days before the heat strikes again or the bitter cold sets in. This is the perfect time of year...lovin life!
This weekend is OU/tx. It's always such a fun weekend, yet somewhat depressing. OU/tx when you're in college is much different than when you're out. And it's scary to think that it's been 3 years since we experienced a "college ou/tx." But, it's still a blast and fun to re-connect with college friends and relive a weekend of debauchery that you can no longer recover from. Yes, the days of the brutal hangover are here to stay, my friends. Let's all take a moment of silence to mourn the days of hangover-free insanity.
On that note, it's a good thing that the following work week will be a 4-day week because I will need the time to recover. I'm looking forward to the game this weekend, Eli Young concert on Saturday after the game, and going to the fair the following week. Then it's only a couple of short weeks until VEGAS. Hopefully something fun/funny will occur sometime in the next month so I'll actually have a reason to stop slacking on the blog. Writing about the complaints of the daily grind gets kinda old, if ya know what I mean.
Get outside and enjoy the fall weather while it lasts! I'm holding on to every last bit of cool weather and sunny days before the heat strikes again or the bitter cold sets in. This is the perfect time of year...lovin life!
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
the funny farm
The first day of school has come and gone (thank goodness). I forgot how chaotic and weird the first day of school is. Don't get me wrong, I love getting to see all of the kids! But, having to teach, and re-teach, and re-teach energizer-bunny-style routines and procedures, I am ready for these kids to read my thoughts. You forget how trained and intuitive the class before this one was. Especially after having them for 2 years...some of those kids knew my thoughts before I did. I know it will come with time, and I have to say that I am super impressed with their progress already. After 3 short days, they are already improving leaps and bounds from where we started.
One thing is for sure though...I've definitely got a few friends from the funny farm this year. Oh mercy. A dozen awkward comments a day, a kid who looks up your dress/skirt, and a handful of meltdowns (mostly the kids :) ), I think we have shown that we truly are a unique bunch. Certainly will make things entertaining.
The best part so far might be the student who asked if it was acceptable to bring his Axe body spray and deodorant to class each day because he doesn't like to smell after recess. I told him that personal hygiene was welcomed and encouraged and that I wouldn't be opposed to him peer pressuring his friends to do the same.
Tomorrow commences our first science experiment...say a quick prayer for us. I'll be busy getting out the fire extinguisher.
One thing is for sure though...I've definitely got a few friends from the funny farm this year. Oh mercy. A dozen awkward comments a day, a kid who looks up your dress/skirt, and a handful of meltdowns (mostly the kids :) ), I think we have shown that we truly are a unique bunch. Certainly will make things entertaining.
The best part so far might be the student who asked if it was acceptable to bring his Axe body spray and deodorant to class each day because he doesn't like to smell after recess. I told him that personal hygiene was welcomed and encouraged and that I wouldn't be opposed to him peer pressuring his friends to do the same.
Tomorrow commences our first science experiment...say a quick prayer for us. I'll be busy getting out the fire extinguisher.
Sunday, August 22, 2010
"You have boyfriend?"
Being the last official day of my summer vacation and the first day of school tomorrow, I figured that I should take care of the pool-worn pedicure and manicure that I was still sporting. Plus, who doesn't love some pampering and relaxation before a stressful week begins? Decked in my weekend's finest (i.e. workout clothes) I decided I was going to enjoy my last day of summer doing everything I love to do: mani/pedi, shopping, lounging, and wearing casual clothes and rubber flip-flops.
When I sat down in the chair, a young girl comes up and starts on my nails. I get the eerie feeling that she's looking me up and down, sizing me up. "This is awkward," I think to myself so I get out my phone to play Words with Friends to pass the time. Then, she drops bomb #1 on me, "you still in high school?" I look up and look around thinking surely she's not talking to me. "Oh no, not in high school or college, I graduated 3 years ago." She immediately gets a disgusted look on her face. "You look so young. Probably because you wear no makeup." Bomb #2. "...and your hair is in a ponytail." Bomb #3. "...and well, you in these clothes." Bomb #4. Now, I get that the Nike running shorts are all the rage at the high school level and could be considered a school uniform, but cmon. They aren't the only people that own these. And after all, it's Sunday. If someone walked up in workout clothes, no makeup, and a ponytail, I wouldn't assume they were 16, I'd assume they were running errands or going to the gym. I wasn't wearing any silly bands on my arms, smiling with a mouth full of braces, or surrounded by a crowd of tweens. But, in an effort to laugh it off, I tell her that my mom still gets carded and she's 55. Nail-girl stares at me awkwardly. Ooook, back to my WWF.
She's quiet for about 3 minutes and then drops bomb #5: "So, if you at least 25, you married?" "Oh no, I'm not married yet." "Well, you have boyfriend?" "....no. No boyfriend." Then, quickly comes bomb #6. "Honey, you not getting any younger. You need find boyfriend. Men don't like ol' woman." "Yeah, but I'm far from being an old woman, so I figure I have plenty of time." "Well, you certainly not young anymore."
Let me get this straight...5 minutes ago, I looked like a teeny-bopper and suddenly I am too old to not be married, or at least have a boyfriend? My self-esteem at this point is starting to go down just a hair. I figure that reasoning with this woman would probably be about as effective as reasoning with my house plant so, I go back to WWF.
My peaceful silence is interrupted again. "You have such long eyelashes." AH-ha! A compliment! (and the affirmation that she is indeed looking me up and down.) "But, you be so much more pretty if you have black hair." Bomb #7. Not only am I cringing at the poor grammar (more pretty), but I am floored that this woman is now insinuating that I dye my hair to her liking. I explain to her that having some premature gray hair leaves that option out. I want her to know that I'm not tolerating this nonsense anymore. "Ah, see, not getting any younger. Better find boyfriend." Bomb #8. REALLY? Were you hoping for a tip after this session?! Because I think you're down to about 15 cents.
I think it's safe to say that the flared nostrils and raised eyebrow I gave her at this point made it clear that I was no longer open to "constructive criticism" over my appearance. We sat in silence for the rest of the time. I was relieved to get up, pay my bill, and go ahead and leave. When I saw the "tip" line on the bill, I was so tempted to just write, "while we're sharing self-improvement tips, go ahead and burn those overalls and scrunchie." But, I decided to maintain some tact (which is now gone since I verbalized that thought) and just give her the normal tip. Needless to say, there is 1 tip I got from that appointment: never go into the nail salon without putting yourself together. Grr.
At least my nails look better...
When I sat down in the chair, a young girl comes up and starts on my nails. I get the eerie feeling that she's looking me up and down, sizing me up. "This is awkward," I think to myself so I get out my phone to play Words with Friends to pass the time. Then, she drops bomb #1 on me, "you still in high school?" I look up and look around thinking surely she's not talking to me. "Oh no, not in high school or college, I graduated 3 years ago." She immediately gets a disgusted look on her face. "You look so young. Probably because you wear no makeup." Bomb #2. "...and your hair is in a ponytail." Bomb #3. "...and well, you in these clothes." Bomb #4. Now, I get that the Nike running shorts are all the rage at the high school level and could be considered a school uniform, but cmon. They aren't the only people that own these. And after all, it's Sunday. If someone walked up in workout clothes, no makeup, and a ponytail, I wouldn't assume they were 16, I'd assume they were running errands or going to the gym. I wasn't wearing any silly bands on my arms, smiling with a mouth full of braces, or surrounded by a crowd of tweens. But, in an effort to laugh it off, I tell her that my mom still gets carded and she's 55. Nail-girl stares at me awkwardly. Ooook, back to my WWF.
She's quiet for about 3 minutes and then drops bomb #5: "So, if you at least 25, you married?" "Oh no, I'm not married yet." "Well, you have boyfriend?" "....no. No boyfriend." Then, quickly comes bomb #6. "Honey, you not getting any younger. You need find boyfriend. Men don't like ol' woman." "Yeah, but I'm far from being an old woman, so I figure I have plenty of time." "Well, you certainly not young anymore."
Let me get this straight...5 minutes ago, I looked like a teeny-bopper and suddenly I am too old to not be married, or at least have a boyfriend? My self-esteem at this point is starting to go down just a hair. I figure that reasoning with this woman would probably be about as effective as reasoning with my house plant so, I go back to WWF.
My peaceful silence is interrupted again. "You have such long eyelashes." AH-ha! A compliment! (and the affirmation that she is indeed looking me up and down.) "But, you be so much more pretty if you have black hair." Bomb #7. Not only am I cringing at the poor grammar (more pretty), but I am floored that this woman is now insinuating that I dye my hair to her liking. I explain to her that having some premature gray hair leaves that option out. I want her to know that I'm not tolerating this nonsense anymore. "Ah, see, not getting any younger. Better find boyfriend." Bomb #8. REALLY? Were you hoping for a tip after this session?! Because I think you're down to about 15 cents.
I think it's safe to say that the flared nostrils and raised eyebrow I gave her at this point made it clear that I was no longer open to "constructive criticism" over my appearance. We sat in silence for the rest of the time. I was relieved to get up, pay my bill, and go ahead and leave. When I saw the "tip" line on the bill, I was so tempted to just write, "while we're sharing self-improvement tips, go ahead and burn those overalls and scrunchie." But, I decided to maintain some tact (which is now gone since I verbalized that thought) and just give her the normal tip. Needless to say, there is 1 tip I got from that appointment: never go into the nail salon without putting yourself together. Grr.
At least my nails look better...
Thursday, August 19, 2010
meet the teacher
So, all week I've been somewhat unaware of how quickly the school year is coming up. Last night it hit me: my room had to be finished, my stuff needed to be organized, lesson plans needed to be thorough, and I had to get ready to welcome in a new group of students. I forgot how much work went in to getting a new class since I had the same kids for 2 years. I began to stress big time...no surprise there.
But, after meeting all the sweet, new 4th graders tonight, I am so excited to get the school year going! They were all so precious and talkative and I can't wait to see how our year progresses. I anticipate some definite new challenges but am looking forward to the fun and experience it will give me. Now that my room is finished, I can sleep soundly again. Well, at least until Sunday when it's the "night before the first day of school." I love my job!
But, after meeting all the sweet, new 4th graders tonight, I am so excited to get the school year going! They were all so precious and talkative and I can't wait to see how our year progresses. I anticipate some definite new challenges but am looking forward to the fun and experience it will give me. Now that my room is finished, I can sleep soundly again. Well, at least until Sunday when it's the "night before the first day of school." I love my job!
Friday, August 13, 2010
Blast from the Past
While up at work yesterday, I left my iphone plugged into my school iHome all day and found that the battery just drained so quickly once I took it out. In an effort to preserve my iphone's battery life, I decided to take the old ipod mini out of the drawer and test it out at school. Much to my surprise, it still worked!
This was a great idea for multiple reasons. 1. I didn't have to interrupt my music and pull the playlists back up every time someone called/texted. 2. I saved my iphone from battery damage, and 3. Old songs! There is just something great about hearing old songs that take you back to a certain time of your life, or even moment. I think it may have even increased my productivity 100%. Either that, or finally cleaning out my cabinets and getting organized...I'll stick with the music.
After a long 13 hours at work today, I feel like I have finally made some progress on my classroom. I forget how much time it takes to do little things. Sure, stapling things up into the wall doesn't seem like it would take that long, but for whatever reason, it DOES. It doesn't help that I spend a good portion of the day chatting with co-workers :)
The beginning of the year is always so much fun though! I'm excited for new kids, new routines, and just a brand new start. The countdown is on...10 days until the first day of school! Until then...riding summer out as much as possible.
This was a great idea for multiple reasons. 1. I didn't have to interrupt my music and pull the playlists back up every time someone called/texted. 2. I saved my iphone from battery damage, and 3. Old songs! There is just something great about hearing old songs that take you back to a certain time of your life, or even moment. I think it may have even increased my productivity 100%. Either that, or finally cleaning out my cabinets and getting organized...I'll stick with the music.
After a long 13 hours at work today, I feel like I have finally made some progress on my classroom. I forget how much time it takes to do little things. Sure, stapling things up into the wall doesn't seem like it would take that long, but for whatever reason, it DOES. It doesn't help that I spend a good portion of the day chatting with co-workers :)
The beginning of the year is always so much fun though! I'm excited for new kids, new routines, and just a brand new start. The countdown is on...10 days until the first day of school! Until then...riding summer out as much as possible.
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Made my day
http://www.27bslash6.com/missy.html
This seriously made me laugh all day long. Totally worth it.
This seriously made me laugh all day long. Totally worth it.
P.S.
I realize that my previous post was about how summer was suddenly ending, only to realize that a mere 2 posts before was about summer beginning. "Why in the world was there nearly 2 months of silence?" I keep asking myself. Surely something noteworthy happened during that time...
Oh wait, that's right...see paragraph 1 for what I did this summer. Or maybe I lived by the motto that 'less is more.' :)
Oh wait, that's right...see paragraph 1 for what I did this summer. Or maybe I lived by the motto that 'less is more.' :)
What happened to summer?
So, I suddenly find myself standing at the end of summer break wondering, "What have I been doing the past 2 months?!" The answer is: nothing! Which has actually been great. It's been so nice to really get to relax and enjoy some time to do exactly what I want to do. I'm sure there's going to be an element of 'shell-shock' when the year is up-and-running. BUT, after getting into my classroom (finally!), setting things back up, AND seeing the long-awaited class list, I am excited to get a wonderful new group of kids to love.
With the beginning of the school year around the corner, so begins the annual 'first day of school nightmares.' This sounds extremely loser-ish, and trust me, feels even more loser-ish when you wake up from one in a complete panic. It's never anything serious...just your typical chaotic, overcrowded, pencil-less, out of control classroom scenario. This includes things like having nothing to do, or having all of the desks pushed into the middle of the room so that the kids sit on top of them (can you say lawsuit?). I didn't think I was feeling stressed, but I can definitely tell my teeth are taking a hit from all the subconscious clenching I do during the day time. As the dentist told me last month, I really need to "find a productive way to unwind. Have you ever tried yoga?" Yes. Yes, I have. And for the record, telling me to wind down makes me more wound up. Reverse psychology is real. You never know where you'll find semi-free therapy, huh?
Soon, the nightmares will end, I'll get all my stuff done, and the first day will be here. But, not yet. Until then you can find me working (or attempting to) in my classroom, in my bed enjoying bad tv/napping, or soaking up enough sun to maintain a tan until Spring Break!
With the beginning of the school year around the corner, so begins the annual 'first day of school nightmares.' This sounds extremely loser-ish, and trust me, feels even more loser-ish when you wake up from one in a complete panic. It's never anything serious...just your typical chaotic, overcrowded, pencil-less, out of control classroom scenario. This includes things like having nothing to do, or having all of the desks pushed into the middle of the room so that the kids sit on top of them (can you say lawsuit?). I didn't think I was feeling stressed, but I can definitely tell my teeth are taking a hit from all the subconscious clenching I do during the day time. As the dentist told me last month, I really need to "find a productive way to unwind. Have you ever tried yoga?" Yes. Yes, I have. And for the record, telling me to wind down makes me more wound up. Reverse psychology is real. You never know where you'll find semi-free therapy, huh?
Soon, the nightmares will end, I'll get all my stuff done, and the first day will be here. But, not yet. Until then you can find me working (or attempting to) in my classroom, in my bed enjoying bad tv/napping, or soaking up enough sun to maintain a tan until Spring Break!
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Tuning Out the "Noise"
So, I've been going to a young adult's Bible Study-ish thing on Tuesdays. It's geared towards singles in their 20s and 30s and really does a good job targeting the age group and issues that we face. This past Tuesday, he talked about perseverance through trials as well as learning to tune out the "noise" of things that litter your life with excess worries that don't really matter.
He talked about how each person does 1 of 4 things in their daily life: 1. You live a good life. Period. 2. You don't care about what type of life you live, so it really doesn't matter. 3. You want to live a good life but are easily distracted by the noise of your life. 4. You don't really know what you want out of your life.
As soon as he mentioned being distracted by the world, I instantly realized that is completely my downfall. It's so hard not to get caught up in your job, social life, and as he put it "social ladder climbing." I'm not so much sure about the social-ladder-climbing, because I don't care about that. But for sure for my job consumes my every being as well as my social life. Making sure that I see and experience everything. It's so hard to say 'no' when you know that your friends are all together and you'd be the only one absent. However, this sometimes leads to late nights (which are always fun) that sometimes adversely effect other parts of my life that should come first.
I struggle with where to draw the line. The past 2 years I have been all-consumed by work. Many of you know that this lead to a near mental-breakdown when I felt like I had sold my soul, per say, to my job. I LOVE my job, which is why I do that, but I know that there has to be the happy medium. My life is not just about my job, or just about my friends. So, how do I figure out how I can be a great teacher, enjoy time with friends, and still have time for family and to focus on things that are important to me? It's a great balancing act, that's for sure.
My family was recently heart-broken to realize that we had lost a very close friend of our family. Our friend Austin, at 18 years old, couldn't tune out that noise that distracts you from living a happy, and healthy life; Austin took his own life on May 27. It hit so close to home. His family is our family. We have grown up with them and spend every holiday together. I know it won't seem real until he doesn't walk in the door at Thanksgiving this year, with his fur coat, and ever-present smile. I think the most immediate pain I felt was the empathy in knowing that, "that could have been my family." Someone in my own family struggles with mental illness and I went to bed with that fear every night. I pray that their family finds the strength to bask in his memory and know that he is in a better place.
Now, more than ever, it reminds me that I need to appreciate the small things, not let petty issues bother me, and just be content with the blessings I've been given.
He talked about how each person does 1 of 4 things in their daily life: 1. You live a good life. Period. 2. You don't care about what type of life you live, so it really doesn't matter. 3. You want to live a good life but are easily distracted by the noise of your life. 4. You don't really know what you want out of your life.
As soon as he mentioned being distracted by the world, I instantly realized that is completely my downfall. It's so hard not to get caught up in your job, social life, and as he put it "social ladder climbing." I'm not so much sure about the social-ladder-climbing, because I don't care about that. But for sure for my job consumes my every being as well as my social life. Making sure that I see and experience everything. It's so hard to say 'no' when you know that your friends are all together and you'd be the only one absent. However, this sometimes leads to late nights (which are always fun) that sometimes adversely effect other parts of my life that should come first.
I struggle with where to draw the line. The past 2 years I have been all-consumed by work. Many of you know that this lead to a near mental-breakdown when I felt like I had sold my soul, per say, to my job. I LOVE my job, which is why I do that, but I know that there has to be the happy medium. My life is not just about my job, or just about my friends. So, how do I figure out how I can be a great teacher, enjoy time with friends, and still have time for family and to focus on things that are important to me? It's a great balancing act, that's for sure.
My family was recently heart-broken to realize that we had lost a very close friend of our family. Our friend Austin, at 18 years old, couldn't tune out that noise that distracts you from living a happy, and healthy life; Austin took his own life on May 27. It hit so close to home. His family is our family. We have grown up with them and spend every holiday together. I know it won't seem real until he doesn't walk in the door at Thanksgiving this year, with his fur coat, and ever-present smile. I think the most immediate pain I felt was the empathy in knowing that, "that could have been my family." Someone in my own family struggles with mental illness and I went to bed with that fear every night. I pray that their family finds the strength to bask in his memory and know that he is in a better place.
Now, more than ever, it reminds me that I need to appreciate the small things, not let petty issues bother me, and just be content with the blessings I've been given.
Sunday, June 6, 2010
Eclipse.
So, I know it's completely dorky/lame, but I am obsessed with Twilight. Case-and-point: today I saw a black Volvo driving by and actually thought to myself "I wonder what the Cullens are up to?" It's sick, I know. Eclipse comes out in 3 1/2 weeks (not that all of us "Twi-hards" have been counting down or anything...) and I'm reading the other perspective of Eclipse. I'm totally not in to science-fiction, but this series has me hooked. I think I may cry when the reality sets in that the series is finished.
Hopefully, Marly will step it up and buy the Bree Tanner book so that we have something to talk about/occupy summertime/obsess over until June 30.
Hopefully, Marly will step it up and buy the Bree Tanner book so that we have something to talk about/occupy summertime/obsess over until June 30.
School's out for summer!
So obviously it's been awhile since I've been on here. I don't know where I've been, but if I had to guess, I'd say probably at work. However, that's all changed because we officially finished up last Thursday! Now it's time to start making to-do lists to occupy the next 2.5 months. Shockingly, I don't have any vacations planned yet. That part must change asap.
The past month has been crazy & so much fun! The TAKS results nearly killed me, but for the most part, things turned out ok. All-in-all, another successful year has come to an end. It was hard to say good-bye to my sweet kids, having them for 2 years and all. They were a wonderful group of kids. On the last day of school I gave them "awards" that I had made for them, based on funny memories or special reasons as to why I would miss them. They decided that they also wanted to throw in positive things for each other. We spent an hour and a half sharing all of the positive things that we remembered about each person in our class. I was so surprised by the genuine compliments that they came up with for one another. Typically, kids like to describe them as "fun, nice, sweet" etc. But they were able to find unique qualities in each person, even for kids that I thought they would struggle with. It was truly a special moment for me to see them all opening up, and sharing about people that weren't necessarily their best friends. It reminds you that kids are so pure, free from long-time judgment and harsh criticism. Wouldn't it be nice if that never changed? It definitely reminded me to try to live that life...to find the positives, even when it seems difficult. I definitely closed out the year on a positive note-watching all the growth they had made socially and the acceptance and love that they have for each other. They were moments I will never forget. I could not have asked for a better class to have for 2 years (and even more, my first 'real' class in my teaching career!). They have left me with unforgettable memories, funny stories, and sweet hugs that I will miss over the summer.
The past month has been crazy & so much fun! The TAKS results nearly killed me, but for the most part, things turned out ok. All-in-all, another successful year has come to an end. It was hard to say good-bye to my sweet kids, having them for 2 years and all. They were a wonderful group of kids. On the last day of school I gave them "awards" that I had made for them, based on funny memories or special reasons as to why I would miss them. They decided that they also wanted to throw in positive things for each other. We spent an hour and a half sharing all of the positive things that we remembered about each person in our class. I was so surprised by the genuine compliments that they came up with for one another. Typically, kids like to describe them as "fun, nice, sweet" etc. But they were able to find unique qualities in each person, even for kids that I thought they would struggle with. It was truly a special moment for me to see them all opening up, and sharing about people that weren't necessarily their best friends. It reminds you that kids are so pure, free from long-time judgment and harsh criticism. Wouldn't it be nice if that never changed? It definitely reminded me to try to live that life...to find the positives, even when it seems difficult. I definitely closed out the year on a positive note-watching all the growth they had made socially and the acceptance and love that they have for each other. They were moments I will never forget. I could not have asked for a better class to have for 2 years (and even more, my first 'real' class in my teaching career!). They have left me with unforgettable memories, funny stories, and sweet hugs that I will miss over the summer.
Sunday, April 18, 2010
Leaaaaaving on a...school bus
Tomorrow, the 5th grade team and our wonderful assistant principal are leaving for a 3 day "vacation" to Sky Ranch with our students. I'm excited to get to experience the 5th grade trip for the first time. C'mon, who WOULDN'T want to go to a camp for 3 days with 112 ten and eleven-year-olds? :) Luckily, we have parents who come along and supervise the kids while the camp counselors teach them their classes. The parents also stay in the cabins with them. SO, all we (the teachers) have to do is walk around and check on the groups and deal with any friends who decide to misbehave. It's going to be so nice to have 3 days of just stress-free work and getting to hang outside and enjoy some fun with the kids. I'm going to keep my fingers crossed that everything goes smoothly. I'm sure we'll have lots of stories to tell when we return.
Sunday, April 11, 2010
Toot toot, beep beep
So tomorrow starts a new week (8 weeks until summer vacation, woohoo!) and some new adventures. One, starting an adult hip hop class. Or at least testing it out. If it turns out that we are the worst ones in the class, we are totally not going back. Can't be embarrassed on a weekly basis. But, definitely should be entertaining!
Last week blew by and I feel like it was a blur. Probably a good thing since it was one of the most stressful weeks of the year. Now it's just a waiting game for the kids' scores to come back and fingers crossed, all of them passed on the first go-round. I think I will cry if I have to continue to tutor morning, noon, and night every day.
This was such a great weekend. The weather here was AMAZING and it's such a shame that Dallas weather doesn't stay like this year round. It would be perfect. But, I am so happy to say goodbye to winter and welcome summer with open arms. It's amazing the effects weather can have on your mood. Hoping for some sunshine this week so I can enjoy some more time outside...and maybe some extra recess for the kids :)
5 AM will come too soon tomorrow. So, it's time to be a dork and explore Google Docs (thanks, Marly!) to see how to do online documents to use at school. Love, love, love it.
Last week blew by and I feel like it was a blur. Probably a good thing since it was one of the most stressful weeks of the year. Now it's just a waiting game for the kids' scores to come back and fingers crossed, all of them passed on the first go-round. I think I will cry if I have to continue to tutor morning, noon, and night every day.
This was such a great weekend. The weather here was AMAZING and it's such a shame that Dallas weather doesn't stay like this year round. It would be perfect. But, I am so happy to say goodbye to winter and welcome summer with open arms. It's amazing the effects weather can have on your mood. Hoping for some sunshine this week so I can enjoy some more time outside...and maybe some extra recess for the kids :)
5 AM will come too soon tomorrow. So, it's time to be a dork and explore Google Docs (thanks, Marly!) to see how to do online documents to use at school. Love, love, love it.
Sunday, April 4, 2010
Closing out the Long Weekend
Is there anything greater than a long weekend? I think not. Why is it that when you have a day off, that day just feels so much different, so much better than just your regular day off? There is nothing better than the feeling of "I should be at work, but I'm not." If every work week were 4 days instead of 5, I think my productivity would increase exponentially. Jump on the bandwagon, America.
I think I spent more time this weekend indulging in little things like happy hour than ever before. Bad, yes. But I think it has helped to calm some of my nerves about next week. Not completely of course. Because now that TAKS is a mere 36 hours away, I'm about to have a colossal meltdown thinking about all of the ways that it could go down. I'm going to pretend that options A through Y can't happen and that the Utopian "Z" option will come out on top. Fingers crossed. Someone make it happen...for the sake of my sanity and everyone's.
Obviously my anxiety and "what-ifs" always get the best of me. Lately we've had some bizarre crime going on in the neighborhood and in our apartment building. What is up with this? Me, being the neurotic worrier that I am, is constantly on the look-out whenever I leave/enter/walk through the building. I've got my keys strategically placed in my hands ready to punch anyone who tries to mess with me...ha. Keeping that mental picture in your mind, you can imagine my instant panic and steep blood pressure increase when I am awoken from my sleep at 5 this morning to thundering pounds on my apartment door. All of the usual thoughts are rushing through my head..."Did I lock Emily out on accident? Are my keys still in the door? Wait, did I even look the door last night? (Severe panic sets in)." I lie in bed for a minute contemplating what to do. Of course I only want to call the police as I hideout in the closet because I'm too scared to walk near the door. The pounding on the door continues for a good 10 minutes. Each knock scares me out of my wits a little bit more and horror-movie-type scenarios are playing out in my mind. I get up the courage to walk to the door to 1. make sure it's locked and 2. look through the peep-hole to see who it is. (I've ruled out Emily at this point because let's be honest...she wouldn't be coming home at 5AM and would have called my phone if she couldn't get in.)
I get up to the peep-hole, confirm the door is locked, and look through to notice that nobody is there. But, I can hear stomping footsteps going down the hall. I continue to freak out, thinking that someone is mad I didn't answer the door and they are probably coming back with an ax or something to break down my door (ridiculous). I'm so traumatized by my worrying that I can't fall back asleep. I send my neighbor a message hoping that maybe it was him sleep-walking and needing something crazy.
I get a phone call from him later today explaining that his friend had passed out in his car outside of our apt. building last night only to be woken up by the Addison police. The police want to know what in the world he is doing sleeping in his car and he tells them he was coming upstairs to stay with a friend. However, the friend, in his stupor, walks to the left instead of to the right and comes upon our apt. door instead of his friends. The cop is banging on the door trying to get the friend to open the door and take care of his friend who is not publicly acceptable. But, the cop thinks this guy is lying since his friend never comes to the door, and carts him off to jail.
Oops. Of course I feel guilty for assuming that someone is out to get me and also for not opening the door and setting the situation straight, preventing this guy from going to jail. But, I'm just a paranoid girl and at 5 in the morning, who wouldn't be? Moral of the story: if you come pounding on my door at 5AM, you're definitely more likely to get picked up by the cops than have me answer-I'll be too busy hyperventilating in my closet hideout :)
I think I spent more time this weekend indulging in little things like happy hour than ever before. Bad, yes. But I think it has helped to calm some of my nerves about next week. Not completely of course. Because now that TAKS is a mere 36 hours away, I'm about to have a colossal meltdown thinking about all of the ways that it could go down. I'm going to pretend that options A through Y can't happen and that the Utopian "Z" option will come out on top. Fingers crossed. Someone make it happen...for the sake of my sanity and everyone's.
Obviously my anxiety and "what-ifs" always get the best of me. Lately we've had some bizarre crime going on in the neighborhood and in our apartment building. What is up with this? Me, being the neurotic worrier that I am, is constantly on the look-out whenever I leave/enter/walk through the building. I've got my keys strategically placed in my hands ready to punch anyone who tries to mess with me...ha. Keeping that mental picture in your mind, you can imagine my instant panic and steep blood pressure increase when I am awoken from my sleep at 5 this morning to thundering pounds on my apartment door. All of the usual thoughts are rushing through my head..."Did I lock Emily out on accident? Are my keys still in the door? Wait, did I even look the door last night? (Severe panic sets in)." I lie in bed for a minute contemplating what to do. Of course I only want to call the police as I hideout in the closet because I'm too scared to walk near the door. The pounding on the door continues for a good 10 minutes. Each knock scares me out of my wits a little bit more and horror-movie-type scenarios are playing out in my mind. I get up the courage to walk to the door to 1. make sure it's locked and 2. look through the peep-hole to see who it is. (I've ruled out Emily at this point because let's be honest...she wouldn't be coming home at 5AM and would have called my phone if she couldn't get in.)
I get up to the peep-hole, confirm the door is locked, and look through to notice that nobody is there. But, I can hear stomping footsteps going down the hall. I continue to freak out, thinking that someone is mad I didn't answer the door and they are probably coming back with an ax or something to break down my door (ridiculous). I'm so traumatized by my worrying that I can't fall back asleep. I send my neighbor a message hoping that maybe it was him sleep-walking and needing something crazy.
I get a phone call from him later today explaining that his friend had passed out in his car outside of our apt. building last night only to be woken up by the Addison police. The police want to know what in the world he is doing sleeping in his car and he tells them he was coming upstairs to stay with a friend. However, the friend, in his stupor, walks to the left instead of to the right and comes upon our apt. door instead of his friends. The cop is banging on the door trying to get the friend to open the door and take care of his friend who is not publicly acceptable. But, the cop thinks this guy is lying since his friend never comes to the door, and carts him off to jail.
Oops. Of course I feel guilty for assuming that someone is out to get me and also for not opening the door and setting the situation straight, preventing this guy from going to jail. But, I'm just a paranoid girl and at 5 in the morning, who wouldn't be? Moral of the story: if you come pounding on my door at 5AM, you're definitely more likely to get picked up by the cops than have me answer-I'll be too busy hyperventilating in my closet hideout :)
Monday, March 29, 2010
Sweet Victory
Well...not exactly yet. But after talking to my friend who actually is an insurance adjuster and my own adjuster for this case, it sounds as though I almost can't lose. THANK GOODNESS. I know that nobody wanted to deal with my mini/major panic-attack that would follow that mess.
Unfortunately, that might have been the only real up-side today. I'm sorry but...is there anything worse than a Monday? Why do things always seem to blow up on Mondays? I guess that's just the way it is. Of course, the weather is beautiful, I have a paying job, and there are no tragedies in my life. I've got nothing to complain about! So I guess it's time to suck it up and get back to work for the night :)
Unfortunately, that might have been the only real up-side today. I'm sorry but...is there anything worse than a Monday? Why do things always seem to blow up on Mondays? I guess that's just the way it is. Of course, the weather is beautiful, I have a paying job, and there are no tragedies in my life. I've got nothing to complain about! So I guess it's time to suck it up and get back to work for the night :)
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Retail Therapy
Convo at home today:
me: "So, I did something bad today..."
Emily: "Oooook what did you buy?"
-proof that I have a problem
In light of recent and future events, I have found myself with the urge to do some shopping. Honestly, my shopping urge doesn't ever really surge or subside--it's always there. But especially after this recent ordeal with my car insurance, and TAKS approaching on the horizon, I've found the only way to curb my anxiety is by hitting up the mall or taking advantage of friends and family discounts. I'm sure my cardigans, shoes, and bag will leave me fulfilled.
me: "So, I did something bad today..."
Emily: "Oooook what did you buy?"
-proof that I have a problem
In light of recent and future events, I have found myself with the urge to do some shopping. Honestly, my shopping urge doesn't ever really surge or subside--it's always there. But especially after this recent ordeal with my car insurance, and TAKS approaching on the horizon, I've found the only way to curb my anxiety is by hitting up the mall or taking advantage of friends and family discounts. I'm sure my cardigans, shoes, and bag will leave me fulfilled.
Saturday, March 27, 2010
Oh, help!
I think technically challenged sums up my skills with this blog. When I opened up the page I laughed so hard realizing how huge the picture is. I have looked under every tab, link, etc. trying to find a way to make that HUGE picture smaller. Obviously...no such luck. Oh well. I guess there's no mistaking who's in that picture! Technology literacy, come to me.
Unfortunately, technological literacy is not the only thing I need. So last night, on the way home from Bolsa with Emily & Ashley (and running into Mags and Katie--hey girl hey), I was driving back to my apartment and in the second left-hand-turn lane. Light turns green, I start to turn left, and the girl in the far left-hand-turn lane just smacks right into me. We pull over to the side of the road, and she and her friend, who let's just say was not the most pleasant girl to meet, insist on calling the cops. What? In my 4 fender benders we've never called the cops. (The fact that there have been 4 fender benders is another issue.) The cops basically show up and think the same thing that I am (what? why are we here?) and write out an official exchange of information. They won't solve the whole "whose at fault" because it was a minor traffic accident, hence why they shouldn't have come in the first place. But now, girlfriend is trying to tell me that it was MY fault because I was not in the turn lane. I don't want my insurance to go up because of this nonsense, so what do I do? I need a lawyer friend! The worst part is, my insurance expired 2 days ago, and I hadn't repaid it yet. I'm thinking my new motto regarding this "minor traffic accident" will be FML. Why do I have a bad feeling about this? Knowledgeable law people, come to me!
Unfortunately, technological literacy is not the only thing I need. So last night, on the way home from Bolsa with Emily & Ashley (and running into Mags and Katie--hey girl hey), I was driving back to my apartment and in the second left-hand-turn lane. Light turns green, I start to turn left, and the girl in the far left-hand-turn lane just smacks right into me. We pull over to the side of the road, and she and her friend, who let's just say was not the most pleasant girl to meet, insist on calling the cops. What? In my 4 fender benders we've never called the cops. (The fact that there have been 4 fender benders is another issue.) The cops basically show up and think the same thing that I am (what? why are we here?) and write out an official exchange of information. They won't solve the whole "whose at fault" because it was a minor traffic accident, hence why they shouldn't have come in the first place. But now, girlfriend is trying to tell me that it was MY fault because I was not in the turn lane. I don't want my insurance to go up because of this nonsense, so what do I do? I need a lawyer friend! The worst part is, my insurance expired 2 days ago, and I hadn't repaid it yet. I'm thinking my new motto regarding this "minor traffic accident" will be FML. Why do I have a bad feeling about this? Knowledgeable law people, come to me!
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Leaving 1993
So, I figure that living a 21st century lifestyle involves acquiring certain technological skills that well...I don't have. Needless to say, I need to get more comfortable using technology, especially with such an emphasis on the use of it at work. So...here we go!
I've recently found that a couple of friends regularly update a blog, so I figured, why not? Even if nobody ever reads it, I'm sure it's somewhat therapeutic to say what you want and spend some time reflecting or laughing about each day's events. I could kick myself a hundred times for not keeping track of all the hilarious things that happen at work each day. I know that there are so many priceless moments that I've witnessed with my kiddos. I know that a lot of precious moments have been lost amongst the mix of time passed, stress, and well, just a full memory. But the truth is, I shouldn't only write a list of things that are precious to me from work, but from life's other moments as well.
After visiting my grandparents over Spring Break, there is one thing that I really notice and recall when I'm with my grandparents. Does anyone else notice that grandparents and people their age have the uncanny ability to recall certain events and times of their life and can give the year in which it happened? Without fail, my grandparents always have some sort of story from their past (many of which I've already heard before, but honestly, isn't that what you love about old people?). But each time this happens, I wonder: will I be able to sit back years from now and recall all the hilarious & great times that have happened if I don't start writing them down? Here's hoping!
I've recently found that a couple of friends regularly update a blog, so I figured, why not? Even if nobody ever reads it, I'm sure it's somewhat therapeutic to say what you want and spend some time reflecting or laughing about each day's events. I could kick myself a hundred times for not keeping track of all the hilarious things that happen at work each day. I know that there are so many priceless moments that I've witnessed with my kiddos. I know that a lot of precious moments have been lost amongst the mix of time passed, stress, and well, just a full memory. But the truth is, I shouldn't only write a list of things that are precious to me from work, but from life's other moments as well.
After visiting my grandparents over Spring Break, there is one thing that I really notice and recall when I'm with my grandparents. Does anyone else notice that grandparents and people their age have the uncanny ability to recall certain events and times of their life and can give the year in which it happened? Without fail, my grandparents always have some sort of story from their past (many of which I've already heard before, but honestly, isn't that what you love about old people?). But each time this happens, I wonder: will I be able to sit back years from now and recall all the hilarious & great times that have happened if I don't start writing them down? Here's hoping!
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