Got This

I think I've perfected the routine with the dogs during this time of being fenceless. Thank God this morning is the last morning {knock on wood}that I'll have to do it. Yesterday I had a little hiccup and was running late because I shaved my legs. This morning, I managed to take a shower in less than 10 minutes. Don't worry, I thoroughly cleaned my bits and parts...I just didn't shave my logs. 

So yeah, the fence people should wrap things up today and Nick is supposed to be here as well. Fingers crossed people follow through. Hopefully when I get home today I'll be able to open the slider and the let the dogs go wild. They are chomping at the bit to get out there without being hindered by a leash. It shouldn't rain until this evening so I'm hoping they get some deck time too. 

Today should be a good day at school because the sophomores going to the career center next year are taking a trip there...sort of an orientation sort of thing. This means that the two hyperactive kids I have at the end of the day (in both 6th and 7th bells) will be gone. When they told me this yesterday I celebrated and then said, "Oh! You'll probably back for 7th bell though." They said, "We're getting back 10 minutes before the end of the day." I said, "Don't feel like you have to come to class during that time!" 

Dinner tonight will be chicken burgers with fries and a caprese salad. I'm excited to grill. Speaking of which, I need a new grill. Not a great time to buy one either. I'll try to make this one last. 

Jim and I got in the hot tub last night after dinner. I was going to make mudslides but guess why I couldn't? Yep...Jim drank all the Irish cream! I said, "What the fuck dude!?" He said, "I didn't know there was Irish cream in a mudslide!" I said, "When you went to Party Source in preparation for our hot tub, I specifically gave you a list for the makings of both grasshoppers and mudslides. Why do you think Irish cream was on it!? Dumb ass shit ass!" We had grasshoppers instead and they were deeeeelicious! 

And that's all I've got. I'm really happy tomorrow is Friday! This week went by pretty quickly. Lets hope today and tomorrow continue that trend. Later!

Little Baby

So I finally heard from my admin yesterday. He emailed me saying, "Hello. Muir, like I said," (he never "said") "I'd be happy to meet with you...just make an appointment." I replied with, "At this point, I think a staff meeting is called for since there are more than 3 people who have questions about this new position and the lack of transparency that surrounds it." He then replied with, "I understand. Let me know if you change your mind." So then I replied with, "So you're NOT going to explain to the staff the reasons behind this position nor the job description?" And then I never heard back from him. What a pussy! 

Then, one of my lunch ladies met with him after school with a list of questions. She was there for an hour getting no answers from him. He did say that after the board approved the position, he'd share the job description. (Translation: That will give him time to actually come up with a lame job description.) Then, after sitting there for an hour with him, he said to her, "Because of all this, I had the worst birthday ever." Poor little fucking pussy baby! Here's a thought: Karma's a bitch. Maybe if you didn't dick over your whole staff that wouldn't happen. Maybe people would celebrate you if you weren't such a fucking turd." I'm so glad his birthday sucked.

Oh, and then one of my other friends at school sent a reply to all from the thread started on Friday saying, "How about we meet as a staff on Thursday? Say 2:05?" I'm sure that will result in crickets. 

In fence news the posts have been placed. YAY! However, the company is claiming they need to "set" so they won't be back today to finish the job. Fuckers. They could easily finish this shit today and I wouldn't have to deal with this fence-less backyard for another day. But noooooo...it'll be Thursday. I'm sure they have another job they're starting. I'm so sick of liars. 

And Nick...our contractor. Ugh...Jim called and sent him a text yesterday and got nothing in return. Ugh. Really Jim's just trying to find out if he should have the fence people go ahead with the side gate or leave it so Nick can get his equipment back there. Why can't people just fucking follow through on things? 

Dinner: I'll either do chicken burgers tonight or mahi mahi. Probably the fish because I need to grind chicken and I didn't pull it from the freezer until this morning. Fine with me. 

K - I'm running late and need to wrap this up. Later!

A Little Inconvenience

They started the fence replacement yesterday and my yard is an even bigger disaster. They managed to tear it all out and get the posts placed on one side of the yard. It's slow going and really laborious because of all the roots. They're hoping to get the back fence line posts in today but who knows...it's taking a LONG time. I'm guessing it'll take until Thursday before this gets complete. Of course once the posts are in, the hard work should be over. We're also having them put in a gate at the back and the side yard on the right, looking at the house. 

You know who is most bothered about all this? Boo and Scout. It's the nicest week of the year and all they want to do is sit on the back deck in the sunshine. Scout's enjoying all the little walks he's getting but I think he'd rather have his yard back. I told them it's just for a few days and this time next week, it'll be done but Scout still keeps going to the back door to smack the bells. That boy just doesn't listen.

I'm also a little put out with this fence thing but it's no big deal. Jim got up with me this morning and got my coffee ready along with a little smoothie prep while I took the boys out front on leash. Once I was out of the shower and dressed we took the boys for a little walk up the road so they could both poop. I don't know how people do it who don't have a fence...what a pain in the ass.  

In school news my admin never acknowledged my email. Surprise surprise. He's a ball-less ass who can't face shit head on. Although he did meet with one of my friends after school and when she asked that the job description was of this "dean of students" he couldn't answer. She said he kept stumbling over shit and when she'd ask him to clarify, he couldn't. Again, surprise surprise. Oh, and apparently, as we all knew, they already have someone they're hiring for the position. Our football coach. He used to be a math teacher with us then took a HS guidance counselors position and now he wants back into the classroom. He apparently has too much work to do in the guidance department and can't focus on football. And by the way, he doesn't do even a 1/4 of the work he's responsible for as a counselor. He supposedly threatened to quit as football coach and so here we are. Such bullshit. 

Dinner tonight: BLTs. ('Nough said, right? Yummy!)

Okay, well, I'd better get moving because I'll need to take the boys out one more time before I leave and I think Jimmy's headed out. Happy Tuesday! Later.

On The Bright Side

You will be happy to know that Jim and I enjoyed our new spa all weekend long! It wasn't quite up to temp on Friday but by Saturday morning it was at 100 degrees and felt oh so good. I think we spent about an hour in it Saturday morning just reveling in our new toy. Saturday night we enjoyed it again with a grasshopper and some music. It was lovely. Sunday after breakfast and my walk I got in to swim. I actually turned the temp down from the 104 since the next several days are going to be around 70. Plus swimming in 104 temps is not easy.

The one downside of everything is I can't seem to get my pH and alkalinity levels right. They're way too high. It's frustrating. I'll have Jim call today to find out what exactly we need to do because I'm confounded and it's stressing me out. 

In school news, the shit hit the fan over the weekend. As I mentioned last week, there was a fear that they were gearing up to create a new position: Dean of Students. Well, at 1:18 on Friday afternoon my jackass principal sent out a paragraphs long email where at the bottom he explained that they were indeed going to post for a part-time dean of students/math teacher. I mean, WHAT!? I can tell you the bunch of ladies I eat with were furious. Three of us sent out emails. Mine was probably a little to, shall we say, in your face and maybe a little aggressive. Oops. Here's what I wrote: 

So to be clear, you are not replacing Jane's position with a full time position? You are creating an admin position even though we've all been told that there is a basic hiring freeze? This is the first that any of us are hearing about a "dean of students" and there's been no job description given to clarify what that will entail. (And according to the calendar the discussions for this position have been happening since August.)And, rather than explain this in our staff meeting where we were all gathered on Thursday which would have allowed for some much needed questions to be answered, this email went out on Friday at 1:18?

In the spirit of transparency, I'd like to know what it means when you say that this position will allow the administration "more time to focus on instruction". What instruction exactly are you talking about?

There is a lot of uncertainty in our profession right now with everything that's happening, politically. It seems that the administration should be working hard to quell our uneasiness rather than fostering what seems to be underhanded tactics.

So frustrating, right? Interestingly, two of the ladies I eat with also sent emails and they got a response from my principal. I didn't. I find that interesting. I guess he didn't like my tone. Oh well...they're going to do what they want to do and I just have to muddle through like always. It's just so disappointing. And there's so much more that is wrong with the things going on in my school...I could go on and on but I won't. Instead I'll try to have a better attitude. 

Dinner tonight: Since I didn't cook what I'd planned yesterday (Trip, Susan and JJ came over to swim and then we went to Shooters for dinner) I'll make it tonight: Creamy Sausage Rigatoni with a salad. 

The week should be pretty easy especially with the weather we're going to have - 70s all week. I'll break out my flip flops tomorrow! (It's still a little to cold for my tootsies this morning.) I do have a short meeting on Friday for an IEP amendment but that should only take about 15 minutes. 

K - time to get this show on the road. Later! 

Up & Running

Thank the baby Jesus! The Bullfrog is up and running. She's still heating up so I haven't been in but it's happening. 

So yeah, yesterday around noon, my Ring app went off informing there was someone at my door. When I answered on my phone it was the service guy for the spa. I directed him to the back and he was able to reset everything and get her up and running. By the time I got home, she was up to 50 degrees but the highest temp I could set it for was 99. I found the directions for the override and it's now set at 104 (the highest it will go). I checked on it around 6:00 and it had only gone up to 53 so I would imagine it's going to be a bit before it's at the temp set. The manual says 24-48 hours which if you think about the starting temp at around 4 (50), it took 2 hours to go up 3 degrees. That's about 36 hours so we'll be pretty close when I get home today. But who knows? 

Jim got the call yesterday that the fence will be installed starting Monday. It should take three days and once that's done, well, I was going to say we'll be done with everything but of course my yard is still in shambles. Ugh! Okay, how about this: a month from now, all will be done with the grass growing and spring well on it's way...fingers crossed. 

Thank the gods it's Friday! I'm so over this week. It was especially long and I'm ready to stay up late (past 8:00), sleep in late (until at least 6:00) and have nothing to do. Except prepare the yard for the new fence. School should be easy and bonus, it's movie day in history. Hopefully we'll finish watching Les Mis and we'll start War Horse. 

Speaking of movies, did I mention that I started watching Fried Green Tomatoes with the kids in ELA a week or so ago? I love the movie but you never know how the kids will react to things. Yesterday, one of my "cool" kids (he thinks he's all that and he's highly ADHD and the bane of my existence although I really do like him) said to me, "I wish we could finish that movie we were watching the other day." I said, "Which movie?" He said, "That tomato movie. It's so good." That made my heart happy and I promised him we'd watch it again next week. 

Dinner tonight: Flatbread homemade pizzas with a salad. Easy and yummy.

Plans for the weekend: Like I said, nothing. Definitely some hot tub time (Trip and Susan you are welcome anytime) and I need to try out the swim system. Probably lunch out on Saturday and most likely a trip to Shooters Sunday. 

And that's it. Time to move on and get this day done! YAY Friday. Later!

Patience Is A Virtue

You know, nothing is ever easy. I've come to that realization. To get to the good, you've got to waffle in the crap. That's been oh so true of this damn Bullfrog of mine. (First world money problems, huh? Perspective)

So...I got home yesterday and immediately went out to the spa to turn on the hose so it could finish filling. It had about 5 inches to go and within an hour of being home, it was complete. I had just finished on my elliptical, when the electrician arrived around 4:30. All he needed to do was install the breaker in the panel and then fire up the spa. Of course it wasn't that easy. 

When he finished at the panel in the garage, he came in and we both went out so that after he fired it up, I could then fire up the pumps. (There's a process for the initial use.) So he flips the switch and....drumroll...nothing. He tries again. Nothing. So he takes off the cover, pulls out the breaker, checks the wires and...nothing. Oh, except a spark. Apparently it keeps tripping. At that point I was freezing my ass off so I went inside. He then came in and said, "I'm going to get my meter and check things out." He ends up having to take off the spa panel (no easy feat) and after fiddling for about 15 minutes, he comes in and says, I think it's a bad breaker. So he has to go to Home Depot to get a new one. 

While he's gone, I walk the dogs and during that time Jim gets home. As I'm coming back with Boo (round 2), the electrician returns. He goes out and replaces the breaker and YAY!!! That was the problem. 

Oh, and by the way, when Jim got home, I schooled him on firing up the pumps. There's a process and we have three plus the swim system so you have to go through the process. So Jim goes out and starts the pump priming process and guess what? If you guessed that things didn't go smoothly, ding ding ding! You win! Pump 1 primed fine but pump 2 didn't and then an error was thrown up: NO FLO! FUCK! And of course! 

Jim immediately called Frank and he put in a service call. I'm hoping someone can come today. I'm hoping that the spa was still able to heat up but I haven't gone out to check yet. I'm hoping this is an easy fix that the service person can quickly remedy. Nothing is ever easy and it's fucking annoying and I'm trying really hard to stay chill and remember these are first world problems. This too shall pass and maybe by the weekend we'll be able to enjoy our purchase? 

Dinner tonight: I think I'll cook up some pork chops which reminds me I need to pull them from the freezer. 

I just had to talk Jim down from the ledge. He came in ready to leave and started going on and on about what if he messed something up in filling the spa and blah blah blah. Guess what I did? I talked him down. I told him that it'll all get figured out. I told him that this can't be this hard and eventually this luxury of our will be an actual luxury. The maintenance guy will be here and he'll get us back on track. Guess what I didn't do? I didn't freak out and turn sarcastic on him act like a jackass. I didn't pull a "Jim". (You may be wondering why I just went off about all that. It's because that's what Jim did to me the other morning. He's the suckiest communicator/listener/calming force. He should take a lesson from his lovely wife.)

And that's all I've got. I guess I'd better get a move on so I can get this day started and hopefully come home to something good. Other than my puppies who I always love coming home to. (Oh, Anne, I just realized I had a dream about Elphaba last night. Don't know what but she was there. Funny.) Later!

She's So Pretty

You will be relieved to read that the spa/pool is in! All went as planned in the delivery and the forklift did not get stuck. Phew! When I got home, Jim was out there with her getting her settled and filled with water. The electrician didn't show up until after 5:00 and was here until about 8:00 and needs to come back today. Which means that we've not been able to power her up yet. That's okay. I can be patient now that she's in place and nearly filled. By the weekend, in fact by this evening, she will be up and running. It will probably take about 12 hours for her to get to temperature so maybe this time tomorrow? 

All that's left with the whole shituation is the yard needs to be graded, seeded and hayed plus we're going to have Nick elongate the railing a bit where the spa is. It just needs a little more length...no big deal. Nick said that over the next two weeks, he'll get everything done. Oh, and then the fence will so be replaced. Next week looks nice so I'm guessing that will happen in the early part, maybe Monday - Wednesday. I only need to be patient a little while longer. I can do it! Especially when I have my little Bullfrog to keep me relaxed. I'll take a picture later when she's all full and jets are running. 

I slept like a baby last night. I'm guessing that the with the stress of the spa delivery over, my mind was settled which allowed me to shut it all down and get some much needed rest. 

My IEP went well yesterday. Took a little longer than I'd anticipated. We were out in 20 minutes rather than 15. 

Last night with everything going on, I didn't cook. We got Chinese (it was so yummy) and so we have a lot of leftovers. I'll either heat so of those up tonight or more likely make some chicken burgers or buffalo chicken sloppy joes with cole slaw and fries. 

I really don't have anything of interest to talk about. I'm not sure anything above was interesting either but that's my life. So I'll sign off and relax, sip my smoothie, hug my pups and then head out. Later!

Don't Want To Jinx Anything

I'm afraid to even talk about it for fear that something goes wrong again. The yard is considerably dry in comparison to last Thursday but who knows. The delivery, however, is supposed to happen today between 9:00 and 10:30. The original electrician is out of town so Jim had to do some scrambling to get someone else. Thankfully, Frank came though. I'll do my best to stay occupied and not perseverate on my ring camera trying to see what's happening. One good thing is that my IEP meeting is at 9:15 so I'll be busy for about a 1/2 hour. Please, please, please let this happen today. If it doesn't I don't know what how long we're going to have to wait. 

I looked at my caseload for next year (I'd avoided it) and I'll just say, it could be worse. I have one student who is marked as having "highly involved parents" but that can usually work for me because I'm very good at communication. I'll have 22 kids on my caseload (up from the 12 I currently have; scratch that, 13; I had an addition yesterday. More on that in a minute) and looking at the 9 freshman that are being added (I'm losing none as I have no seniors and the sophomore who's going to the career center next year is going 1/2 days) yowza! I think there was one kid who has 5 goals. Reading, writing, math, executive functioning, self-regulation, oh, and a speech goal. I mean what the fuck!? How do you provide direct instruction for all of that with time to do anything else with any other kid. It's going to be a shit show. But, this too shall pass. 

So the kid who was added to my caseload yesterday: He's a junior who's been in about 6 different districts including, Loveland, Lebanon, Little Miami, Goshen, Covington and he's been at Kings before. He's apparently a complete and total asshole who refuses to do anything, is obsessed with his phone and due to behavior he's been expelled twice from other schools. Not sure why anyone thinks a typical public school is the place for him. He's living with his grandparents though he does have a good relationship with his mother but she does not discipline him. His father is not steady in the picture and has been very verbally abusive to this kid. Parents have never been married. I'm not sure why he's living with his grandparents but it doesn't seem like mom lost custody. He enrolled at Kings on 2/24 and has yet to show up. Oh, and his IEP is apparently expired. We'll see. I'm not sure how many credits he even has and what the point of him being here is except to not be truant. This should be fun. 

Dinner tonight: I'm going to do something with pork chops I think. Nothing too exciting. 

And that's all I've got. Wish my pool luck today. Later!

Fingers Crossed

There is a possibility that tomorrow the pool will be installed. We had a lot of dry out over the last few days and since it won't rain again until tomorrow night, we may have a window. We'll see. Nick said he'd come by today to grade the yard. Jim sent a text to the electric guy so now he just needs to call Watson's and talk to the woman who schedules these things. This has to happen. With the amount of money I spent, they need to figure this shit out. Fingers crossed. 

The weekend was uneventful. We really didn't do anything except run errands on Saturday and go to Roosters for lunch. I won $62 on Keno while there. Jim won $22. It was a good day. 

Yesterday I started moving some of the furniture and the grills back onto the deck. I need to figure out where everything will go but we have plenty to fill the space and then some. I still want to get the chairs and fire table for the patio but that hasn't gone on sale yet. 

The fence should happen next week. Jim started getting the area next to the fence where he have wood stacked all cleaned up. We're definitely going to need more wood for next year. We might just take some of the wood from the trees we took down behind the fence. If that's feasible, it will certainly be a money saver.

This week at school should be pretty easy. I have an IEP tomorrow at 9:15 via Zoom. Pretty sure the mother basically wants to say, "Hi", sign and have that be it. I told her it would take all of about 15 minutes if she was good with the draft I sent her a week ago. 

I slept like shit last night. I woke up at 10:00, 11:00, 12:30, 2:00, 3:00 and 4:27. It was annoying. I'll have to go to sleep early tonight. That's a joke...I got to bed early every night...because I'm a loser. 

Dinner tonight: Jim wants hamburgers so hamburgers it is. I'll need to make a quick stop at the store during my plan because I need buns and cheese. 

And that's all I've got. I have a lot of grading to do since I wasn't at school Friday. Which means, I'd best get a move on. Here's to a fast week and please please please send positive thoughts my way for the pool install. 

Disappointing

What a let down yesterday was. For those of you not in the know, we did NOT get the spa installed. Everyone showed up for the big day but when the forklift guy got here and saw the soggy yard, he said, "Naw". The risk of the machine sinking was too great and at this point who knows when the delivery will happen. One problem is that the yard in back is so messed up that there's nowhere for the water to go. Jim's going to call Nick today about grading the dirt a bit more and better so that maybe it can dry out some. There's going to be a solid 4 days without rain but I'm not sure that will be enough. Of course as we head into Spring, it's not likely we're going to have a stretch long enough to dry things out. Again, if we're waiting for a dry spell, we may be waiting for weeks. So frustrating.

I keep trying to tell myself that this too shall pass and these first world problems are the least of the world's problems. I keep trying to tell myself that I hadn't expected this project to be done before end of March anyway so just be patient. I mean, there are so many worse things that could be going on so I should just be thankful for what I have. I could be looking at the same old deck without the excitement of a new spa in my future so be thankful, right? I'm trying to have that attitude, really I am. 

So I took the day off in anticipation of having the new pool which is kind of a silver lining with the disappointment from yesterday. My plans include cleaning the house, cuddling with my pups, watching out for trees coming down (high wind advisory here), cooking dinner, and that's about it. My dinner tonight is going to be a slow cooker coconut curry pork chops. It looks good and uses stuff in my pantry. Tomorrow I'm going to do another slow cooker meal - chicken/sausage jambalaya - so Jim and I will be eating well this weekend. 

I don't have any other plans over the weekend. Jim and I need to get the wood in the side yard moved away from the fence in anticipation of that getting replaced in the next week or so. I need to get to Aldi but I'll do that tomorrow since I'm boycotting big business today. Nothing else is planned. 

K - I'm going to go get on the elliptical and have another cup of coffee. Happy weekend. Later!

This Is The Day!!!

I woke up this morning singing: This is the day, this is the day, that the Lord has made, that the Lord has made. We will rejoice, We will rejoice. And be glad in it. If you don't know the song, be glad because it would be your earworm for the rest of the day. 

I'm really excited but I think Jim might be more excited than I am. Currently (he got up at 4:30 with me) he's in the basement moving things around so the electrician can work without obstructions. He's got a list of things to do in prep for the install but he's probably jumping the gun just a bit. I can't blame him but I'm REALLY glad that it's him here overseeing everything rather than me. 

I didn't sleep great because I woke up around 10:00 thinking about all the things. But that's okay because I'm not working tomorrow. I hope things go smoothly and that I come home without any angst from Jim. I told him not to call me today unless there was something I HAD to know or deal with so fingers crossed I don't get a call from him. 

I think I mentioned that I've started using the Vital Proteins again in the morning (I add it to the fiber I take with my vitamins). I'd found that getting out of bed recently had been a bit of a trial with aches and pains that come with age. It's been less than a week and I can already tell the difference. I'm able to pop out of bed without much pain at all and going down the steps isn't a chore. Additionally my back is feeling a bit better. I switched out my chair at work. Around Christmas I switched my office chair for a gaming chair. I think the lower back pain I've been feeling may be related to that. It's a chair without much support in the back so I thought I'd switch back and see if things get better. It's weird when it gives me pain. Usually when I stand up from sitting in a chair but I'm fine walking and even doing yoga. 

Dinner tonight: I'll be doing an easy meal since I anticipate not wanting to cook in lieu of staring at my new spa. So I pulled tomato soup from the freezer and will make grilled cheeses to go with. 

And that's about all I've got. Remember that I'll be sleeping in a bit tomorrow so won't be posting at the usual time. And I don't want any flack for it! 

Wish Jim and all the guys here luck today for a smooth install. Later!

Bear With Me

I know I'm getting annoying talking about my pool but we're down to 1 more sleep before it's here. I haven't heard anything from Watson's that it won't be so I'm assuming all is in order. After it's installed and I've adjusted to having it, I'm sure I'll shut up about it. In preparation for my new toy, I'm sending Jim to Party Source to stock up on all the things needed for a good hot tub experience: All the makings for a grasshopper and mudslide. Can't wait! 

The ACT went well yesterday. Only one of my two kids showed up which was nice. She was efficient and didn't want a bunch of breaks. I was done by 10:45 and had the rest of the day to chill. Of course the day dragged on after giving the test but I'm not complaining. 

Man that weather yesterday was such a tease. It got up to 64 degrees and my walk with Scout was so lovely. He was loving the wind in his face and warmth as was I. I didn't even have to wear a jacket. Of course it's still February so I know we still have some winter ahead but it gives me a little lift which is much needed. Not that I'm complaining because you all know how much I love winter and snow. I got what I asked for this year and I have nothing to be unhappy about. 

Jim went to the hip doctor yesterday to get his shit checked. All is fine and really, I just think Jim needs to get into shape. He can't blame his pain on arthritis since that was all replaced with his new hips so the only thing it can be attributed to is his stagnancy. He keeps saying he's going to start riding his bike and now he says he's going to do "water therapy"; we'll see what happens after tomorrow. I may have to crack the whip otherwise I'm going to have to listen to him moan and groan. Shit or get off the pot dude. 

Dinner tonight: Fish and chips with cole slaw. Easy. 

And that's about all I've got. Later!

ACT

Today is ACT day which means it's a relatively easy day for me. I have two kids who are on 504s and their only accommodation is small group. They have standard time so I'll be done by 11:30. Woot! I'm not in my own room but I don't really care about that and at least Lisa can be in there with her group of kids. After I finish administering the test, I'll head to the grocery for a few items and then after that, I've got the rest of the day to myself. 

We are two days away (I hope) from spa install and I'm so excited. I can't believe it's almost here! I feel like I planned on doing something like this for so long and now here we are with my dream almost meeting reality. Can't wait.

And it can't happen fast enough for Jim. He's been having a lot of hip pain lately. In fact, he made an appointment for today to meet with the Orthos at Christ. He thinks (and he's probably right) that it's arthritis but having had a double hip replacement, it just sucks for him. Hopefully that's all it is and once we get the spa, his pain will be relieved a bit. 

Speaking of Jim, his MRI results finally came through and from what my non-medical brain read, all is well. As Jim said, the gerbil is still on its wheel. 

Dinner tonight: I pulled the turkey tetrazzini out of the freezer and I'll pair that with a salad. I have so much stuff in my freezer I need to make a bigger effort to pull from it. 

I haven't seen the coyote in the last couple days but I'm sure he's out there. More and more neighbors have seen it and caught it on their ring cams. I makes me so nervous. I know my dogs are probably not pets that would be targeted by it but I still get worried when they're out there. I'll be happy when our new fence gets put in. I feel like there are spots out there now that are on the verge of collapse. Should happen in the next week or so. 

Did I mention that I'm listening to a really good book? I think I did. It's called the Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros. It certainly isn't for everyone since it's got dragons in it but I'm really into it. Plus the audiobook reader is really good. Happily, it's a series too!

Okay well, I guess I'd best get a move on and remind myself how to administer the ACT. Later!

Nerdfest

So Saturday, Doug, Lauren, Jim and I took our yearly trek down to the Northside Yacht Club for the February special: Deep fried chili cheese coneys. (So yummy...you just can't even imagine and sooooo bad for you.) I got the veggie one and it was delicious! Anyway, afterward we headed to an arcade in Sharonville. They have every video game you can name (except Frogger) and at least100 pinball machines. I'm pretty sure when Lauren and I walked in, we were the only ladies in there. To say that the place was filled with nerds is putting it mildly. It was PACKED with nerds of every shape and size. As I walked the joint, I thought So this is where they hang out! And what's that smell?! Not to be rude or judgmental. I dated a pretty major nerd in my day (Bob) but so many nerds in one place was a bit discombobulating. 

Anyway, we stayed for about an hour ($5 for an hour unlimited and $10 for all day...I did NOT want to stay there longer than an hour! For my health...not sure I got the stick off my fingers yet) and I played all my favorites: Centipede, Pacman, Ms. Pacman, Golden Axe, Area 51, Joust, Mortal Kombat. It was awesome. I will definitely go back there. Next time though I'll make sure to stock up on the hand sanitizer. 

The rest of the weekend was chill with the usual stuff. Nothing too exciting to talk about.

You know what is exciting to talk about? This time next week, our spa will be installed! And hopefully, our yard will be back on the way to normalcy. AND our fence will be about to be put in! So exciting. The spa goes in on Thursday (unless something happens with the shipping between now and then). Jim will take the day off and handle all that.

The week should be a pretty easy one. Tomorrow is a wonky day with sophomores taking the Pre-ACT and juniors taking the ACT. Freshmen and seniors don't come to school. I'll be done with kids (the two I'll have to proctor) by 11:30. Woot! 

Dinner tonight: I'm going to do chicken cordon blues with Brussel sprouts and rice. 

And that's all I've got. Time to get moving. Happy Monday! Later!

Tentatively Excited

Nick, the contractor, sent a text last night (at 11:15, which of course I didn't get until this morning) stating that guys would be here today to finish up and could I write him the last check. I'm so happy, however, I did send a text back saying, "Just to make sure: you'll be spreading the dirt, evening it out, spreading seed and laying hay, in front and back, like we'd talked. Also, we still need handrails up the steps." I'm hopeful that this was all planned and will be completed today but you never know. I'll write the check and once I get a reply from my text I'll where I've left the check. I mean, this "clean up" should be expected, right? Not to mention he and I talked about it. I need to relax but I just want my yard back to normal! So do the boys. All that to say I'm so happy with the deck and everything Nick and his crew did {knock on wood}.

Went out to dinner with Anne and Becky last night which was nice. We went to DeSha's and I had my usual (French onion and quiche). Becky brought up the family planning the trip to the Bay to spread Dad's ashes. A fall trip was thrown out there so we all need to look at calendars to figure it out. Maybe one weekend in October? I'm sure it will take some coordination with schedules but I think it will be a good time to do it. I'm open to anything though. 

I decided this morning to NOT get on the elliptical as usual. I just feel like I have too much to do and Jim's got to get out the door especially early today. He has a therapy appointment at 9:00 but also needs to finish up the job he's on before then. I'll get on when I get home today...what else do I have to do? 

Dinner tonight: I'm making chicken philly cheesesteaks in the Instant Pot. I'm actually using the Instant pot on the slow cook setting so it will be cooking while I'm at work. It looks really good but I've never used the slow cook setting on the Instant pot so I hope it works well. I looked up tips and tricks so hopefully things will work out. I mean how bad could it be? Chicken, peppers, onions, seasoning!? Kind of hard to fuck up, right? 

Yesterday was the best day ever at work. It was a nice little treat to not have to be there until 9:00 and have 30 minute classes. With the classes so short (they were actually 29 minutes) I couldn't do my planned lessons so it was "movie" day for both ELA and history. I started showing Fried Green Tomatoes to my ELA kids and they seemed to really enjoy it. I love that movie. We're finishing up Les Mis in history...love that movie too although I can't watch it because it makes me cry. 

Okay, I'd best get going. Happy Friday! Happy Weekend. No real plans except tomorrow, we're going to Northside Yacht Club for lunch with the Nunns. I'm sure we'll hit a brewery or two as well. K - later!

I'll Take It!

I had just finished up my yoga and gotten Jimmy's coffee brewing, was making the bed and getting ready to jump in the shower when I heard my phone ding. My Lunch Ladies informing me that we are on a 2-HOUR DELAY!!! It's not the closing I was hoping for but I'm not mad! So now, here I am, sitting on my couch, in my robe, sipping my coffee and you get my post a little earlier than usual. 

Here's an annoyance, however (cause you know I like to bitch): Why haven't I gotten a notification from the district? We're supposed to get an email, text and an all-call. I've had nothing. Someone is going to hear about this! I was this close to getting in the shower and that would have pissed me off! 

So yeah, when I finish up here, I'm going to sip a bit more coffee then get the protein smoothie that Jimmy and I share ready THEN, I'm going to get on the elliptical. That way all I have to do when I get home is walk the dog. This works out perfectly because I'm going out for dinner tonight (Anne, Becky and I are meeting at DeSha's) and I won't be rushed. BTW - this means I won't be cooking tonight. 

Nothing is happening with the deck right now. As I've mentioned, it's pretty much complete and with the delivery of the spa happening next week, we're in a holding pattern. The fence company did call Jim yesterday and they will come out next Thursday to do a last look-see before they replace the following week. This means that by the first week of March nearly everything will be done! I'm hoping that once the spa is in, Nick and crew will get my back yard (and front) straightened out again. It will be warm enough and I need that shit cleaned up because it's making me itch. The boys miss having full run of the yard too. 

And that's about all I've got. It should be a pretty easy day today. Short classes mean less time for kids to annoy the shit out of me. K - later!

P.S. One of my colleagues just said that apparently NONE of the teachers have been notified of the delay...just parents. That's fucking fishy! Assholes! 

Hoping & Wishing & Praying

I was hoping for a delay or snow day today but it only JUST started snowing. And that really sucks because I want a smooth and non-nerve wracking ride into work. 

I'm wishing for a snow day or delay tomorrow because we're supposed to get another round (this one closer to home) overnight so fingers crossed. 

I'm praying that Jim's scan goes well today. He's getting his brain looked at and other than the typical "Jim brain issues", prayers that it's clear of anything related to melanoma. 

I've got amazing news! I got the call yesterday from Watson's with the spa delivery date! Next Thursday, February 27th, Thundercats are go!!! They should be here at 9:00 AM as long as nothing holds up its shipping. I talked to Jim about who would stay home and I think he's the better bet. First of all, he'll be less of a basket case and then he can micromanage the electrician and fence removal. Plus, when it's all said and done, he can go to work...assuming it only takes the morning to get it all installed. All of this means that for the next several days, I'll be stressing and trying to figure out how to run the spa. So exciting. 

In deck news, they showed up again yesterday and finished the final steps down into the poured patio. Doesn't it look great!? I'm so excited! I think the only thing left to do on the deck is install the handrails up the steps. After that, it's all yard work. Who knows when that will happen. 

When I got home yesterday, I decided to let the dogs get a look-see out on the new deck since everything is frozen solid and they can't get muddy. They loved it. They especially loved the concrete. They were chasing each other and hopping around like it was their first time outside. It was pretty cute. Of course now they want out there all the time. I can't let them out there on their own, however, because I don't want them going under the deck. There's lattice up everywhere except where the spa will go. Sorry boys. 

Dinner tonight: Stuffed peppers and a salad. Oh, and my tuna noodle casserole last night was really yummy. And easy! It was a new recipe and though I doctored it up a bit (added extra mushrooms and extra peas and some red pepper flakes), the base of the recipe was so delicious! 

Okay well, I need to get my boys back outside before I leave since Jim's out of here in a few minutes (his appointment is at 7:00 AM). Later!

Water Heaters, Coyotes & Annoyances

Yesterday was a pretty good day off. For the most part, I sat around reading while the plumbers replaced our water heater. They got there at 9:00 (right on time) and were out the door around 11:30. Surprisingly, the contractors showed up as well. They were here about 4 hours and worked on putting up the lattice. I was shocked they came because it was bitter cold. Again, I'll be interested to see if they come today.

Something I forgot to mention yesterday in my weekend recap was the scare I got on Sunday. I was standing at the sink doing dishes and I saw movement beyond the fence in the back. I figured it was a deer but then looking closer the movement wasn't right. I realized pretty quickly it was a coyote and a pretty big one at that. It was just meandering about, moving along through back yards and jumping over the fallen trees toward whatever it's destination was. Watching, I realized it could very well jump over and clear my back fence into my backyard if it wanted to. Of course this put the fear of God in me and I will be keeping an eagle eye on the boys when they're back there. I sent a text to my neighbors and my next door neighbor replied with "I bet it was the one I've seen back there the last couple days." WHAT!? That's the type of thing you share especially with those of us who have animals. Jerk. 

Last night I had to go to bed at 6:30 because Jim was driving me up a fucking wall. I didn’t wanna be mean so I told him I was heading up because I was in a foul mood didn’t wanna get mad him for nothing that he had done. See these are the things that time and experience have allowed me to realize. Sometimes I’m a bitch for no reason and after almost 24 years of marriage I know that it’s not Jim’s fault and I just need to put myself to bed. And today, I'm in a much better mood. 

You may be wondering why I was in a bad mood. I really don't know. All I can tell you is Jim was being especially annoying. Literally, he wouldn't shut up. I was trying to watch a news piece at dinner and knowing this, he kept talking through it. I finally said, "Are you ever going to shut up?!" He did. Plus he was telling me stories he knows I don't want to hear. Things about working with dumb shits and trumpers who think that fool is doing a good job as president. I can't listen to these stories. I'm not in a place where I can hear about all this crazy shit going on and I don't know if I ever will be. 

I'm so happy it's a short week at school. We're 24(?) school days away from Spring Break and I'm hoping I can get through all those. From now until then, there are no days off and that's going to be a struggle. I might need to take a mental health day. We'll see. 

Dinner tonight: Jim wants tuna noodle casserole and I aim to please. I'm going to try a new recipe for it...hopefully it's a good one. 

And that's all I've got. Time to get a move on. I hope no one annoys the shit out of me today but I don't hold much hope there. Later! 

Hopefully A Restful Day

Other than the water heater guy coming today at 9:00, it should be a pretty restful day. I don't anticipate the contractors coming to work on the deck with all the snow but you never know. They usually arrive by 9:00 so we'll see. Jim's getting ready to head out so the boys and I will have a nice day to ourselves with nothing much to do which makes me happy. 

The weekend was good. Friday Doug and Lauren came over for cards. Saturday Jim and I went to Trip and Susan's. They went all out for dinner and got a couple Jeff Ruby dinner kits: Mac n cheese, asparagus, filets, salad and then Susan made Brussel sprouts with carrots with a teriyaki sauce. It was all so amazing and I'm still full. After cards, we sat to watch the first 3 fights of the 4 Nations game...ridiculous...and then Jim and I drove home. The drive home was fine (Jim's a good steady driver) but the rain was crazy. At one point the sky started lighting up with lightning but we made it home in one piece. 

Sunday was our typical, typical (big breakfast and Shooters) although we didn't get to walk the boys. I tried to walk Scout during the snow but he wasn't having it. I kept telling him he wouldn't be happy out there but he kept giving me those eyes so I said, "FINE!" Once he experienced the whipping winds and snow in his poor little face, he turned back toward home. 

Dinner last night was chili (maybe one of my best) and sent after a game or two of Rummikub, I sent Jim off to bed around 7:30. I stayed up for a bit watching the SNL 50th celebration and then hit the hay. 

I didn't sleep great last night because I kept waking up thinking about my property taxes. I sent them in nearly 2 weeks ago and the check still hasn't cleared. I started thinking, Shit! Maybe I didn't put a stamp on the envelope! Then, when I woke up this morning, there was a notification in my email from someone on the NextDoor app who had posted about the same issue. He'd sent in his taxes 16 days ago and the check hadn't cleared. He called the auditor and they said the mail is crazy slow. That's a relief and isn't that weird!? I might be psychic! 

Dinner tonight: I'm not sure. I'll either pull some stuffed peppers and do that or maybe a lemon chicken. I don't want to go to the grocery and if I do stuffed peppers I'll want a salad with it and I don't have salad makings. So that settles it, huh?

K - time to go move my car and then get on the elliptical. Happy Monday! Later!

According To Frank

First of all, my sister, Maggie, is sooooo impatient. And rude! I was sitting here waiting for my computer to reboot when I got a text from her essentially saying I needed to get my shit together. And THEN, she called me a shit ass. I mean, I warned you all that I'd be late today in my post but apparently Maggie has no patients, no self-control and no desire to see me hurry. 

Jim and I went to Watson's yesterday evening to pay off the balance on the spa and Frank said {drumroll} Nick will be pouring cement TODAY!!! I'm so happy. He also said that the delivery of the spa has been set for the week of 2/24! Woot! While at Watson's Jim and I also looked at some outdoor furniture and I found what I want for the patio. When talking to Frank, he said, "Are you in a hurry to buy?" I said no and he said, "Wait until our factory sale in early-mid March because prices will be slashed." He wrote himself a note and said he's email/call with a reminder. I found what I want and I hope the price is right. (Notice the chair to the left. The set includes 4 of these swivel rockers and then a round fire table. Shown is in gray but I'd get brown.) 

After Watson's, Jim and I headed to dinner at DeSha's. It was yummy (I got fish and chips, Jim got pasta) and then we came home to hang and watch M*A*S*H. 

As you can tell from my late post, I'm "sick" and just couldn't get to school today for the in-service. Hopefully I'll feel better soon. My plan for the day will be to get my elliptical routine out of the way after this, clean and then get to Aldi. Beyond that, I'm going to relax. 

Dinner tonight: Since it's Valentine's day, I'm going to make Beef Stroganoff, a Jimmy favorite. And a Muir favorite for that matter. 

Weekend plans: Tomorrow Jim and I are going to Trip and Susan's for some dinner and cards. Can't wait! Sunday we have no plans except our usual. It's a long weekend for me so I'm excited to just relax. It's going to rain a TON which I hate especially when I look out into my backyard but what're you going to do? 

And that's all I've got. I need to get up and make our daily smoothie. Happy weekend! Happy Valentine's day! Happy President's Day weekend. Later!

We'll See

We'll see if they actually pour the cement today. I'm a little concerned about it because what if the cement truck gets stuck? I would imagine that they would have ground protection for just that reason but what do I know? The weather sucks still and it's cold but next week is going to be worse (highs in the 20s). With the spa coming next week, we have to get that cement poured so it has time to cure. I'll be a nervous wreck today and I'll try NOT to watch my ring camera. 

Tonight is a parent teacher conference night/Academic Fair. I'm starting to feel just awful (cough cough) so will probably have to call in. I'm guessing that I'll probably still feel bad tomorrow and have to call in sick for our in-service. 

Dinner tonight: I need to get to Watson's to pay the rest of the balance for the spa so we'll do that then after go out...most likely to DeSha's. 

And when it rains it pours: Our water heater is on the fritz and so we're getting it replaced on Monday. Ugh! These are the things that you just have to deal with when you're a home owner and I'm so thankful I'm able to pay for these things without struggle but it still sucks. Additionally, I've noticed that my washer is not spinning really well. I'll keep an eye on that and think about a repair. My washer is about 9 years old so it's probably time. Ugh! 

I follow one of the former housewives from Beverly Hills (Teddi Mellencamp, daughter of John) on Instagram. A couple years ago, she found melanoma on her back and since has had several surgeries to remove. All of her issues have been stage 2, I believe (lymphs were fine and nothing had passed into her organs). Recently though she'd had been having debilitating headaches and so went for an MRI and CT scan. They found several tumors in her brain only two of which they were able to remove surgically (they did that yesterday). From here she'll have to have radiation. She's got young kids which is so sad. This obviously hits home for me and I'm nervous about Jim's upcoming MRI on the 19th. Granted, he hasn't been having headaches but you just never know. Fingers crossed. 

Okay well it's time for me to get a move on. I hope they pour cement today and I hope it goes well. Happy Thursday and remember, my post will be a little later tomorrow since I'll be sleeping in. Later!

Jerks!

My district just hates us. They could have thrown us a bone and given us a 2-hour delay but NOOOOO! Many of the nearby districts are delayed but for us? Screwed! Arg! The road outside my window is not completely snow covered but there is snow. It looks like the highways are fine and granted, north of the city didn't get what the city got but still! What's the harm? Jerks! 

Nothing much is new with the deck and concrete. They did frame off the area for concrete and they covered it in anticipation of the weather. From what my guy Frank said, Nick is planning on pouring tomorrow. Fingers crossed. 

I mentioned yesterday that they arrested a 15-year old for the swatting incident resulting in our lockdown a couple weeks ago. He was in fact a kid from Kings and of course a special ed kid. Additionally, they released his name, which is crazy. He's a minor. I don't feel like they should have done that and I wonder what the backlash will be if any. When we were in our meeting yesterday prior to school where our admin informed us of what he knew, a teacher asked, "Considering this kid made the call/text from his cell phone inside the school, will the administration now, finally, put a cell phone policy in place?" (Understand that our admins refuse to put a policy in place and in fact have directly told us that we are not allowed to have students put their phones in a cubby in the classroom.) My administrator answered by saying that how we stop these things from happening is for teachers to build better relationships with our kids. Yup, you read it right. Teachers are to blame for this shit! I mean what the actual fuck!? He's just terrible! 

Dinner tonight: I'll either do Italian braised pork chops with broccoli or spaghetti and a salad. 

Can't think of anything of interest to talk about. For that matter, I can't say that anything I've talked about was of interest. So on that note, I'll sign off. Tomorrow will be my Friday...yay! Later!

No New Pics

I don't have any new pics to show of the progress but in about a week I will! It's so exciting. I got a call yesterday from Frank (dude at Watson's) who said {drumroll please} they are shipping the spa this week! It should be in next week! Of course I started to freak because we don't have concrete yet but he had already talked to Nick and they are hoping to pour on Thursday. Yesterday they put in the retaining wall and started framing out where the concrete will go. If they work today (who knows with the snow that's rolling in) I'm guessing they'll finish putting in the framing and then put in the rebar. It's all happening!!! 

In other crazy news, as I was sweating it out on the elliptical yesterday I got an alert for a 7:10 am meeting today from my principal. He stated there was an update on the lockdown from the 31st. Immediately, the ladies I eat with started texting and sent a link to the news story saying that a 15-year-old student was arrested for the incident. I can't say for sure that it was a Kings student as the article didn't say. Since Loveland apparently had a similar/same call a week earlier, I guess it could be someone from anywhere. All I do know is that the kid has been charged with inducing panic, which is a second-degree felony. The student was taken to the Warren County Juvenile Detention Center. Dumb kid. We'll see what information my principal has...I'm guessing not much more than that. 

Dinner tonight: I might just do a cobb salad. I need to go to the grocery but with the weather that's coming, I might have to put that off. It shouldn't be bad up at school (it's mainly going to hit south of the city) but you never know. 

What else? OH!!! I won $75 on the school Superbowl squares. It wasn't the $450 I'd hoped for from our Shooters square but this honey badger don't care. I ain't mad! 

I'm reading a really disturbing book right now called Mindhunter. It's written by a former FBI profiler and focuses on some really fucked up serial killers (redundant) from the last 50 years or so. I read about one dude last night before I went to sleep and holy shit! Talk about one fucked up mother fucker! The things he did...there just aren't words. Scary! I can't believe I didn't have nightmares. After I read this, I'm going to have to read some really happy books. 

And that's all I have for today. Later!

Good Weekend

First of all, my venture with making butter was a success! It was easy and delicious! I'll definitely do it again. I also made a rustic loaf of no-knead bread which was the perfect pairing. 

Jimmy had a good birthday weekend. We went out with Doug and Lauren, first to Northern Row brewery and then to Scotti's. Here's what I'll say about dinner: The best part of it was the company and hanging out with friends. Scotti's just didn't deliver but that's okay because the brewery was really yummy. Afterwards, we came home and of course played cards. 

Yesterday was our typical Sunday with a big breakfast (fried bread), a big walk and then Shooters. Doug and Lauren came over for some pre-game, pre-dinner cards. After Jim and I ate, we watched the first half of the game then went upstairs. I stayed up for a bit and watched some of the half time show but again, Kendrick Lamar just isn't my thang. 

The deck is really coming along and in fact, it's mostly finished. There are little things here and there (trim and completing the steps down to the yard) that need to be done but really it's pretty much there. Of course the concrete still needs to be poured but that probably won't happen this week because of temps. I'm hoping next week will be better for that. I hope they get my yard back together soon too because that's such a eyesore but I know we're almost at the end so and that makes me happy. 

The week should be pretty easy at school. We have parent teacher conferences and academic fair on Thursday but I won't be going to that. We have an in-service on Friday which I'll probably go to but I'm not happy about that. I'm sure they've got stupid shit laid out for us to waste our time. Typical. 

Dinner tonight will be double-dipped chicken fingers in the air fryer (I have buttermilk from my butter making that I need to use) with green beans and French fries. 

And that's all I've got. I guess I'll get a move on. Later.

Nearly There

Our deck is so close to being done! It's so exciting. As you can see, they've started putting up the railings and I love it! Where it ends at the outer edge is where the spa will begin! I just can't wait! I also can't wait for my yard to get fixed back up. Every day when I come home it's a little worse. Of course the rain hasn't helped with this but what're you going to do? The weather should be good today so that the workers can return and complete the steps and railing and after that, we just have to wait for fair weather for pouring cement. I'm guessing that won't happen next week but we'll see. 

I'm SOOOOOOO happy it's the weekend. I'm especially happy that my day should be easy with a big quiz on part 1 of TKM in ELA and then it's video day in history. I need this little break from teaching today because these kids are driving me crazy. 

Last night I made a Tex-Mex chicken and zucchini one-pot meal and it was amazing. I've made it before but I don't remember it being this good. And! It's a really healthy meal (aside from the rice I served with it but whatever...I love me some starch and carbs. Tonight will be grilled cheese and soup. I pulled shepherd's pie soup upon Jim's request. Yummy. 

Maggie turned me on to a new show to watch: Paradise on Hulu. It's with James Marsden and Sterling K. Brown. I'm in episode 2 and it's REALLY good so far. 

I got my butter container delivered yesterday so I'm all ready to make me some butter this weekend! Is that weird? 

Weekend plans: Tomorrow is Jimmy's 57th (holy shit!) birthday! We're going to Scotty's for dinner and I'm very excited. I love me some Italian and I love Scotty's. It's been around since 1912 and family owned! Everything is hand made and I'm getting hungry just thinking about it. 

Sunday, who knows? I'm sure we'll hit Shooters but other than that, I plan on just hanging out at home. I'll probably watch at least the 1st half of the game and the half-time show but I'm not really well versed in Kendrick Lamar so it's not a big pull for me. Beyond that, we'll just have to see how the game is going and if it's worth me watching the 2nd half. I bought a Superbowl square from the shooters thingy (just one) but I have three squares on the school one. Fingers crossed I win something. Mamma needs some new outdoor furniture! 

And I think that's all I've got left to talk about. Happy weekend. Later!

Trying New Things

First of all, look how well the deck is coming along! Nick said yesterday that they'll probably be able to start installing the handrails today or tomorrow! All they have left of the decking is the areas you can see to the left and right of the steps and then they need to finish building the steps that will go down to the yard. When I asked about the cement, he made a sort of "who knows" face because of weather. Next week is not looking good for pouring cement until at least Friday and by that point we may have a bit of snow on the ground which could delay us a bit. Again, it's fine because the spa shouldn't be in for another 3 weeks or so. Oh, and he did say, regarding the cement that we should put a bit of a walkway in front of the stairs connecting the patio we're pouring so you're not just stepping right onto the grass. Sounds good to me. 

In addition to all that, I made sure that when all is said and done, he sets our yard to rights. He assured me that would happen and all we'd need to do is water. Awesome. 

You'll be happy to hear, I know I was, that Nana apologized to me yesterday for her rant on Monday. When I said to her, "It's fine." She answered with, "No it isn't." Good to know she's not the complete asshole I thought she was. 

I've decided to try making my own butter. I know this sounds weird but I like to try new things. Originally I was going to get a butter maker thingy but those things are so overly priced. When I read about it on Pinterest, I found that a Kitchen Aid mixer works just as well and since I have one...bam! I did, however, buy a butter container (at left). Maybe I'll try my hand at a little butter churning this weekend. I'll keep you apprised of my success (hopefully not failure). I think I'll also make some rustic no knead bread to go with! It's going to be a good weekend! 

Dinner tonight will be some sort of chicken dish. I have some zucchini I need to use as well. Not sure what I'll do with it exactly. 

School is school. I'm excited tomorrow is Friday. I'm ready for the weekend. I'm always ready for the weekend. 

BTW - I know you're curious about my tooth hole. I still have one stitch left in there. It isn't bothering me as much as it was, meaning, it's not poking me in my cheek. However, it does but me that it's still there. I've made the decision that if it's still there on Tuesday, I'm cutting it out. That will be the three week mark since my extraction and that's long enough! 

Okay well, guess I best get a move on. This time tomorrow...it'll be FRIDAY!!! Later!

It's Coming Along

As you can see from the pic, the deck is really coming along. In fact, they started laying the actual decking yesterday. You can't see it here, however, because it's up against the house. I'm hoping the get a lot done today because we're going to have a good amount of rain starting this afternoon and I don't know that they'll be able to work tomorrow. As you can see, in the middle of the picture, toward the bulldozer (or whatever the hell that thing is) there's an opening where the steps down to the yard will be. Originally, I'd wanted this a little wider but the way Nick did it (less stairs and more surface area on the deck) will allow us to have more room for our table, grills and other furniture. 

I'm still unsure of what the stairs down to the yard will look like. I'd wanted a few steps down, then about a 6 foot platform then another 2 steps or so. The way it's built right now, however, that hasn't happened. And maybe he's still got some posts and stuff to do. We'll see. Regardless, it's better and bigger than it was and truly awesome. I'm so excited. 

So yesterday when I went to work, I was talking to a couple of the ladies from lunch about the incident from Monday. They were flabbergasted though not surprised that Nana spewed such venom. Talking to the art teacher, she said that Monday night, Nana called her and apologized. I stated that I'd be curious if she said something to me. She didn't. Again, not surprised. I'm letting it go and just trying to keep in mind that I don't know why she is the way she is; I don't know what happened to make her like that and that I'm not everyone's cup of tea either. 

Dinner tonight: I'm going to pull an Aldi meal out of the freezer (pulled pork). I'll serve it with some cole slaw and fries. Something easy. 

Did I mention the podcast I've been listening to? It's called Telepathy Tapes and it is utterly fascinating! Here's the premise: The podcast explores the amazing abilities of non-speakers with autism—individuals who have long been misunderstood and underestimated. These silent communicators possess gifts that defy conventional understanding, from telepathy to otherworldly perceptions. Parents and teachers have quietly witnessed these individual's abilities and through this podcast the evidence and experiences that have been gathered shows that there is someone quite remarkable inside the minds of these people once thought to be shells of a person. There really are no words to describe what this podcast is uncovering. Autistic individuals who can read minds and the proof is undeniable. As a special ed teacher I'm fascinated but also as someone who is fascinated by what the mind and body has the ability to do. There's just so much we don't know but think we do. Listen to it...it'll change how you think. 

K - I've droned on long enough. Happy humpday! Later!

Maybe Keep Your Opinions To Yourself

Before I begin, let me just remind everyone that Jim's an idiot. He just said to me, "I fucked up yesterday." (Shocker) Apparently he forgot about his therapy appointment and so he had to reschedule. As though he was afraid to tell me he said, "She rescheduled me for Friday, Valentine's Day." I said, "Okay. So? I don't care. We don't celebrate that shit." Why did he think I'd care? 

Speaking of: Jim's birthday is in 4 days! He wants to go to Scotty's downtown and I'm excited! He's supposed to call for reservations on Saturday and we'll go down with Doug and Lauren...if we can get in. 

So, yesterday at lunch, there were only three out of the five of the lunch ladies present. (Two had taken sick days.) Of the three of us, only myself and the art teacher was at school Friday. Obviously, the topic of the day was the lockdown. When we convened for lunch, the one who wasn't present, let's call her Nana, had about a million rumors to share about Friday. Many of them, I'm sure were exaggerated and/or false. I know we proved one rumor she'd heard was false (she's a terrible gossip).

I'm going to backtrack here to try and give you an idea of the kind of person Nana is. I like her - normally - but she is incredibly opinionated. She's got a LOT of anger and is VERY negative. (I mean, you think I'm negative? She takes the cake.) She is really loud when she's voicing her opinion (which is always), she doesn't listen well and in turn often talks over people. She'll come into a conversation having not heard it's beginnings and start spewing what she thinks is being discussed (and she's often wrong). I know what you're thinking: How is this person a "friend"? How can you say that you normally like her? After yesterday, I think it's that I put up with her. 

So as we were eating yesterday, Nana made a comment about a couple teachers she'd heard had shed tears during the lockdown Friday. And by the way, I was close. When I was texting with Maggie during lockdown, I started to get weepy but I held it together. Anyway, Nana proceeded to rant that teachers who cry in situations like that are out of control and unprofessional. The art teacher and I looked at each other and just said, "You weren't there. You don't understand the situation." She kept literally yelling and yelling that "It was just her opinion." She said teachers need to hold it together to keep kids calm. Again, she ended all of her comments with, "That's just my opinion." At one point I said, "Easier said than done. You weren't there. It was stressful." She then yelled, "I DIDN'T SAY IT WAS EASY! But that's just my opinion." 

This whole discussion upset me so much. A) How dare you judge like that. How dare you fault a person for how they react. Everyone reacts to stress in different ways. We're human (well, maybe you aren't) and sometimes our reactions are different. Sometimes people laugh, cry, freeze. B) Those aren't opinions, that's judgement. Opinions are things like liking steak is better than chicken; or he/she is the best looking person ever. Stating how a person should act in a certain situation is a judgement and you can keep that shit to yourself because again, YOU WEREN'T THERE! 

I'm tempted to say something to Nana but I know it would be useless because like I said, she doesn't listen. She doesn't respect other's thoughts and feelings and really it's her way or the highway. I'll just continue like I do when she speaks during lunch and shut my mouth. I'd rather just avoid a useless discussion with her. 

In construction news my yard is an even bigger disaster than before. However, all of the lumber and decking was delivered yesterday; I believe all the holes have been dug for the posts and the old top decking was taken off and hauled away. I'm guessing that today they'll finish the demo of the old deck and maybe start placing the posts? I'm hoping at least. I'm not sure when they'll pour cement. I keep telling myself when I look out at the disaster that it's going to be beautiful and worth it and in a couple months, it'll all be done. 

Dinner tonight: Hamburgers, caprese salad and probably fries. 

That's all I've got. Time to get a move on. Happy Tuesday. Later!

Weekend Update

Friday and the lockdown we had at school, on the one hand seems so long ago. However, as I laid awake last night thinking about it, worrying about the aftermath, its still so fresh in my mind. Although I slept well last night, I did wake up a few times thinking about it. I thought something like that can give people an idea of what to expect and how things actually go down and so if they want to do bad things, they have first hand experience with how the school will function during a crisis. One thing I do know is that from now on, I'll be keeping my door closed. Typically, I like having my door open but that's just not safe. Isn't it awful that this is where we are? Ugh! 

The weekend was good. Friday Jim and I just hung out. I wasn't up for much...just wanted to decompress and hang with my fellas. I did make dinner and then Jim and I played games. 

Saturday I had a bridal shower for my cousin's daughter (my first cousin once removed) which was nice. I got to see Mom (and Anne and Susan) which was a bonus. From there I met Jim for a beer at Shooters then we came home and hung out once again. 

Yesterday was your typical Sunday: Big breakfast, big dog walk, Shooters, grocery and dinner. (I didn't cook...we got LaRosa's.) I made cookies to leave for the workers who will hopefully be here to finish the demo of the deck. I'm hoping that they'll pour concrete this week. Today is going to be a good day to do it because it's going to be in the 60s with no rain until possibly late tonight. They could pour anytime this week really but there's more rain as we go toward the weekend. Again, I'm trying not to be impatient. 

The week at school will be a normal week. I do need to get to school and shift my plans since Friday was all fucked up after the lockdown. I'll give my 3rd bell ELA a free period today because I need to get my 6th period ELA back on the same timeline with the book (We didn't hold afternoon classes Friday (kids left after we got out of lockdown at noon.) I don't have any meetings and hopefully the week is uneventful. 

Dinner tonight will be pork tenderloin with rice and broccoli. 

And that's about all I've got. I need to get the cooler together for the workers (I also got them some Gatorade) so I'd best get a move on. Later!