Thank You Jim and Jane

So, Jane and I went to Paxton's today for lunch. Jim eventually met us there. Had lunch - got a birthday beer - and more presents!!! Now, I'm not counting or anything but I'm just thankful that I have such nice and generous friends, family and husband!!!

So, YEAH!!!! Jim got me my digital camera...looks just like the picture. I've taken some lovely photos already (I'll post some tomorrow).
He also got me the new James Morrison CD - I'm so happy, along with roses and a camera case!!!


Jane, though lunch would have been enough (and the sweet doggy plates from yesterday) got me some really nice wine glasses (I've been using X-mas glasses for over a year), an awesome Giada cookbook (shown) and a really awesome smelling candle!!!

Thank you everyone for my loot and love! It's been a great b-day already and it's not even 5 PM yet.

Okay - best go walk the dog and get ready - cocktails at Jane's then dinner at Vincenzo's!!! Plus, Kevin Fox is at Paxton's tonight so if we're motivated after a filling meal, we may head there for a drink and music. Later.

Birthday Loot

So yesterday was great - filling, exhausting etc. J.J. is the cutest baby I've ever seen and I don't think I heard him cry one time! He's so good! Of course he loves his Aunt Muir best! He thinks his Aunt Maggie is weird and he told me he thinks she may be the devil! Unfortunately, I didn't remember my camera so I don't have any pictures to post of him...I would love for someone to send me a photo!!!

Since we were all together, I got my most of my presents yesterday. I scored!!! I got money from Dad and Becky - Thanks, much needed!

From Maggie and Charlie, I got a Ped Egg, some awesome slipper socks and the best, most comfortable pair of pajamas in the world!!! Adult footie PJ's!!! It has a "trap door" in back too which is key! I'm wearing them right now and they are warm and cozy!

From Trip and Susan I got the new Killer's CD (Day & Age) and an awesome Yankee Candle holiday decoration set! I don't have nearly enough X-Mas decorations so I'm really psyched about that!

From J.J. I got personalized frog note pads and stationary! It actually has my name on it! I've never had anything with my name on it because, duh, who's every heard of my name? I love it!

Thanks everyone for everything! I loved my cake(s) Susan and was just so happy to be with everyone yesterday!

Tonight Jane, Jim and I will be going to Vincenzo's! It's my favorite Italian in the city! I can't wait. Jane and I are going to Paxton's for lunch and then who knows. Can't wait!!!

K - Later!

Circle Tail Pups!

So, as I said in a previous post, Jane and I went to Circle Tail yesterday to get some photos. Here are a couple (pay no attention to the stupid loser in red with her eyes closed). Clockwise from the top left - the yellow lab is Pierre, then the Shepherd, Tolan (spelling), Yen, a border collie mix (I think), Sticks (my sweet little cockapoo), Tuck (who could barely keep his eyes open) and finally Phade who's mix I'm not sure of. They were so awesome! I'll also have to get pictures of the Irish Wolfhounds - they stand up to my belly button!

I fell in love with this sweet white dog I'm with - a cockapoo named Sticks (I'm not sure of the spelling of her name). I wanted to take her home and love her forever! But alas, I can't because she's destined to be hearing service dog. Oh well, regardless, these dogs are awesome!

On another note - I'd like to give a shout out to Aunt Kathleen who has a birthday today!!! I hope your day is fabulous and that you have everything you could hope for!!! I Love you and hope to see you soon!

GOBBLE GOBBLE!!!

Happy Thanksgiving to all!!!

So, here I am - I tried to sleep in a little but only managed to stay in bed until 7:00. Zeke joined me in bed for a bit but I could tell he wanted to head downstairs for a pee and carrot. He usually won't venture downstairs without me. So we got up, I put his coat on, let him out and turned on the TV for a little Sounds of the Season. It's the music channel on my cable. I really enjoy the fact that one minute I can hear Pearl Jam sing about a Christmas tree and the next I hear Nat King Cole sing about reindeer flying. It makes me happy!

So, I made my casserole yesterday - it's in the fridge waiting for the oven. It doesn't seem "eggy" enough but whatever, I followed the direction (though I did cut it in half). While laying in bed this morning, I decided I didn't have enough for breakfast so I'm going to do hash browns too. I've never made hash browns before so I hope they don't suck. When I finish this post, I'll make my cream cheese ham ball.

FYI - I'm now listening to Aaron Carter sing "Run Rudolph Run"...the downside to this station.

Last night was fun...Jane and I went to Bravo's for dinner and then her sister's for more cocktails. Interestingly, Jane's niece, went to Miami with Brittany Woods! They were in a sorority together. For those of you who don't know what I'm talking about - Brittany is the daughter of Jenny Woods, who happened to be who I student taught with at Kings! Small world, huh? Anyway, Jane and I got home around 10, she came over for a nightcap and by 11, I was in bed, trying to stay up and watch the Top Chef I missed. I managed to watch 1/2. I'll catch it later this weekend - I'm sure they'll replay it.

Okay - I'm off to make my ham ball! Can't wait to see everyone! Oh, and Diane, J.J. is now sitting up!!! Thought you'd like to know! I can't wait to see him! I'll be sure to take pictures with my old, crappy camera. Later and have a good turkey day everyone!!!

Thanksgiving Eve!!!

So I was a bum last night. I got home, walked the dogs, made my dinner, watched Grey's from last week, ate my dinner, took a bath and then went to bed. I was in bed by 8:00! I tried to stay up but, alas, I think the last month caught up with me. I guess it was good though that I was able to fall asleep early because I'm rested up for tonight.

So my plans for today: I'm going to do a bit of cleaning. Then I need to go to the store for some sausage and English muffins for a breakfast casserole I'm making for tomorrow. I figure, since we won't be eating until around 5 tomorrow, a nice breakfast will keep me and Jim sated until then (with an appetizer as a snack). I will then make the casserole (it has to sit overnight). At noon, Jane and I are heading over to Circle Tail so Jane can take pictures. When we get home we're going to give the dogs some exercise. Later, tonight, we're going out to dinner - most likely to Bravo's but of course, being women, we're fickle and may just change our minds. Jim's brother got into town yesterday night so I believe he'll be hanging with him tonight - that's why he won't be at dinner with us, though of course, he's more than welcome! It'll still be nice, just us girls.

Can't wait for tomorrow! I love Thanksgiving. I love the food and the total laziness of the day. I love playing "Guitar Hero" with everyone (Cullen kicks our ass on this). I love the wine etc. I love that this year, Maggie will be in charge of doing the dishes! I love that I'm going to be "busy" talking to Dad this year when the dishes are being done and Maggie will be left to do them all on her own! Oh, good times!

Okay - I'm going to go relax, drink my coffee, jump on the bed to wake Jim up, and then start cleaning! Later everyone and GOBBLE GOBBLE!!!

P.S. Don't you love the picture Maggie?

Damn That Anthony Bourdain!!!

I had a dream last night that I was a smoker. Again. I know it was because I watched Anthony Bourdain last night. He went to Ireland to test their culinary delights. Interestingly, his first stop was Belfast - the capital of Northern Ireland. Land of unrest. Anyway, dude is a huge smoker and mmm...I guess it made me wistful! Along with that in my dream, I dreamt I went back to work at the liquor store. Obviously, I dreamt that since I went down there Saturday. It was good/interesting to see those guys after nearly 10 years. I can't believe it's been that long. Anyway, I dreamt I was back working there and I was all worried that I would start smoking again. So, I decided to just get on with the inevitable and I bought a carton of Salem Ultra Lights! When I woke up, I felt sort of guilty. Isn't that weird?

So, today is my Friday!!! I'm wearing jeans to work too (Lisa, you better have jeans on today or you might as well not come to work cause I might just pound on you a little)! I'm such a rebel. I never wear jeans if it's not Friday - usually I forget if it's a short week - but everyone else always does! So I said "F%&K it!!!" Why not me, just once?! I'll just hide in my room all day!

FYI - did you know that the word "shiznat" not only means "cool" or "awesome" but it also refers to the lesbian couple in the anime Mai Hime? This I did not know! Isn't that the shiznat?

Ooh, I forgot too: I thought I was getting sick yesterday - feeling all nauseous and pukey! But I'm not! Yeah!!! I was afraid that those dang kids were getting me sick on my birthday week! I may have had to slap a few around (of course I kid!!!).

K - best skittily skat outta here. Later.

NASA Has Lost Its Mind!!!

So I was watching the news this morning while getting ready and there was bit about NASA and how they've found a new source of water. Now, I was thinking they meant that they had found another clue that water existed somewhere in space on some planet or the moon. Nope. They found a "great" new way to obtain water while in space. What is this great new water source? Urine. Yup, I said (typed) Urine!!! PEE! Tinkle! Wee wee!!! Piddle! Piss! AND they're bringing the "technology" back to Earth to test it here! Mmmm! Pour me a glass of nice refreshing pee! GROSS!!!

Okay so I slept like a baby! And I'm in a good mood!! I only have a two day week and then I get to sit at home and cuddle with my babies! I'm so happy! I don't even care that it's raining lions and wolves out there! They said on the news that some places could have ice but I don't believe that! It's almost 40! Regardless, I'll be driving the back way to school today so I'll be extra careful! People on the highway drive like maniacs (braking like assholes) when the road gets wet. I'd rather just go the back way and worry about those damn deer.

Ooh, speaking of deer: On our walk yesterday to the Nature Center, I finally saw a deer. It was a big one too - but it must have been a female because I didn't see a rack at all (antlers, or whatever they're called - not its boobs! Sillies! Deer don't have boobs!). The dogs were really good about it. Not one of them made a ruckus - I don't think Bubba saw her because he usually starts howling and whining when he sees such things. He was too busy trying to get a gander at Emma and Daisy's buttocks!

Okay - I best finish getting ready. I'm wearing a new purple sweater today and I love it. It's so comfortable. J.C. Penny has some cute stuff! I never really knew! I need to get back there to get some other things too: Sweats etc. Okay, I'm out!

By the way - I think this may be the funniest cartoon ever!!! Sucks when the magic is gone!!!

Wild Night at the Iron Chef

So, last night, Jane, Jim, Tonya and I went to the Iron Chef for dinner. The Iron Chef is a Japanese restaurant with hibachi (cook at your table). It was packed. We ended up having to wait for a table for an hour. Who knew? Apparently, every family and their kids were there celebrating birthdays. So of course, Jane told tour waiter that I was celebrating my birthday. I didn't put up much of a fuss knowing the hoopla that was to come since the young girl who was also at our table turned 12 today - I didn't want her to have to stand on her chair by herself. Yup, that's right! I had to stand on my chair for the whole restaurant to see me while the staff beat on drums and sang out "HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!" Pretty funny actually. Jane managed to snap a few photos of me but they turned out pretty blurry - probably because I was dancing around on my chair. I'm surprised after all the vodka and wine, I didn't fall off. Anyway, it was a great meal and a really nice night. We were actually home pretty early but once again, I slept like poo. I just don't sleep well when I drink.


Today, Jane came over for breakfast and then Bubba and I met her at the Nature Center. We met a couple of ladies from Circle Tail there with their 4 dogs so there were 4 of us and the 6 dogs. Bubba was soooooo happy! And, when we got out of the car, some guy from across the parking lot yelled over asking what the hell kind of dog Bubba is. I swear, he gets more comments when we go there! Or people just laugh at him. People are just shocked, I guess, at his weird look (and maybe that he looks like a tub-a-lub!!!) So, Bubba is now completely sacked out and laying in the sun. I'm going to go head up and get some laundry to put in, get my clothes ready - really, I only need to iron for one day - and then I think I'll take a nice, long, hot bath. And read. Jim's working today so I'm all alone!

Oh, I got curtains for some of my windows but I ended up cancelling the order for the living room. I decided that the curtains I got for my dressing room are too bland (they're tan - I need something with more color). So then I decided that I would put those curtains down in the dining room and cancel the curtains I had on ordered for in there. Well, after cancelling the order, I realized that the curtains that I had for my dressing room wouldn't work in the dining room because they aren't long enough! I'm so stupid! Well, regardless, I have curtain rods for all the windows now! I may just change out the curtains from my room and put them in my dressing room - even though they're boring and bland. I'll figure out later what the eff I'm doing for the living room. I definitely need to stop being so indecisive though!

K - later.

Light Of My Life!

You, light up my life... you give me hope...to carry on...you light up my days and fill my nights - well, you don't fill my nights up with joy Maggie but I do apologize for not writing about how awesome you made my month by coming to see me for 10 minutes last night that I got to see you!!! And, I loved your new car!!! Seriously, I think it's the best car you've had so far!!!

You know Maggie you rock!

Ok, so I am trying to heat up my ass right now because it is so fricking cold. I have to go to Kentucky tomorrow and get some Vodka to stay warm. Not sure what kind I will buy or how much as they might be having some holiday specials with shots.

I am going to hike on Sunday with Bubba and I hope it warms up but Bubba doesn't care because he watches Nessa's bbbutt. She's got one, skinny butt!!! It's so much fun to watch!!! I love to watch her "hurry"!!!! (Hurry means "pee" or "poo") I love Nessa!!! I miss Nessa!!!

By the way, lets all raise a glass for "New Drape Day!!!" How awesome is that!???

Here's a new recipe for the day (you vodka lovers):

Delicious drink recipe:
2 parts Absolut Raspberri
1 part Apple Liqueur
1 part Grapefruit JuiceAppleRaspberry-->
Fill a rocks glass to the rim with crushed ice. Pour absolut raspberri, apple liqueur and grapefruit juice over the ice. Garnish with an apple (peel) and a raspberry (whole).

Possible Difficult IEP

I have an IEP today with a woman who has the potential to be difficult. I believe I can handle her...that isn't my main concern. I'm concerned that once again, a district rep will not show up. Even with reminders, these morons can't show their face. I think in my reminder email today (for a sub because you know Jelly Belly can't remember his responsibilities from one minute to the next), I'll also add that it would probably be a good idea that a district rep show up for this meeting since my parent may just smack the regular ed teacher that I have attending. Should be interesting. My only hope is that this mother always seems to be in a massive hurry so hopefully, she won't want to sit there for 2 hours and argue.

Speaking of Jelly Bellies - I think I had better stop calling my VP that since, well, I have developed quite the jiggly middle myself. Ugh, I need to get on that!

So, that's about it. I also need to get to work quickly so that I can see if I have computer access. Yesterday, Lisa and I moved our room around - long story but they are installing Promethean Boards (like Smart Boards) and of course, they didn't install the wiring near our desks. They did it across the room so we had to move everything around and when we hooked back up, nothing worked. Lisa had most of it figured out, I think but said the computers weren't functioning properly. We'll see. Sometimes technology is a bitch! Especially when you're technologically retarded, like me.

K - I'm outta here.

Have a Bad Day!!!

It's one of my top 24 zany holidays today! Have a bad day day! Man, I can't wait to wish several people a bad day! And what can they do? It's a holiday, right? Can't blame me for a bad attitude, I'm just celebrating. Being festive, you could say! So, for all you bitches, jackasses and other pains in my ass: HAVE A BAD DAY!!!

Today's Wednesday - ugh! I hate Wednesdays! Why, you ask? Because it's early dismissal at school and 3 out of 4 Wednesdays per month are spent yammering in the social studies department about crap I don't care about. I hate wasting my time and let me tell you, this is the mother of all wasting time. Literally, I sit there and zone out. I don't listen to a thing anyone says. And it's not because I don't respect the people in the department, I do. It's just that I have NOTHING to contribute!!! Today, however, I may be able to skate out a bit since I have an IEP meeting at 1:00! It certainly won't last until 2:30 but maybe I can stretch it out. Go to my computer after the meeting to make corrections or changes before they slip my mind. You know: Lollygag!

Okay, so that's it. I've got nothing else. Should make for a nice, boring day. Later!

Colder Than a Witches Boobie!!!

I'm not sure how cold a witches boobie is but it must be pretty cold. I'd hate to be the man married to a witchie poo. Maybe I'll have to ask Samantha Stevens.

You know what boobie I like? Well, from the picture, you must know it's the blue-footed boobie! Found on the Galapagos Islands! There's also the red-footed boobie but they just aren't as cute.

Anyway, I got plenty of sleep last night. Took a Tylenol PM and slept great until about 1 AM. Bubba then woke me up with his head shaking. He's having ear issues. I got up, cleaned them out, he drank about 1/2 gallon of water and then proceeded to whine by my side of the bed. I ignored him. Jim got up, put him on the bed. Bubba then proceeded to stare at me. I asked him if he wanted to get "under" and lifted my side of the covers. Let me tell you, it was like someone had hidden a cheese ball under there, he moved so fast. The good thing about Bubba being under the covers is, it stops him from needing to shake his head. The bad thing is, he is a furnace and usually within 1/2 hour, he's huffing and puffing like a maniac, all over my legs. Anyway, once he was happy and back on top of the covers, I fell asleep again and slept the rest of the night like a baby rock!

Today will be a nothing day. One of my students (pain in the ass student) got suspended yesterday for 10 days - drug and alcohol related. Of course it took me calling the admin to find out what had happened and then informing them of the need for a manifestation determination (stupid special ed paperwork to determine if the offense due to their disability). Thing is, they are going to recommend expulsion. And you know the morons have forgotten that the district is still responsible for providing services if that happens. Unless she moves (she's been living with grandma; she needs to go back to dad in Dayton) or enrolls in virtual learning. Cross your fingers.

Okay - Best mosey. Happy Mickey Mouse Day - our official holiday for the day. He's 80 today. Later bitches.

Happy Homemade Bread Day!!!

I need to start looking ahead. Had I known that today was Homemade Bread Day, I would have whipped up a loaf (in the bread machine). Instead, I'll celebrate by having a peanut butter sandwich for lunch. Nearly just as good!

So the weekend has ended and I'm trying to choose a positive attitude. See, I woke up thinking, "Ugh! Monday=(" but switched gears and thought, "Hey, this time next week, I'll be getting up for a two-day work week!" I can handle that. So, I'm getting my new attitude on and trying to buck up for work. And those kids. Who probably need a vacation more than I do. And I had planned on not showing my video today and just doing the whole Civil War in a week but now that Monday is here I don't know if I have the gumption to just dive right in.

No!!! New and improved attitude (sititng up straight, smiling, shaking my head to clear out the negativity).

Last night I tried a new recipe: Homemade meatballs with a homemade marinara. Now, the meatballs were stuffed with smoked mozzarella and I don't know why I've suddenly stopped listening to myself. I should have known that they would suck! I don't like smoked things. Yuck! The marinara sauce was okay but nothing so phenomenal that I'd really want to make again. So, that recipe is in the trash. It's the first Giada recipe that I've not liked. She usually doesn't steer me wrong. Thanks Giada! Had nothing to do with my cooking.

Tonight was supposed to be eggplant rollatini but I think I'm going to switch it up because I had enough Italian last night. So maybe with the leftover fillet that Jane gave us, I'll make a wild rice steak casserole. It's a Paula Deen recipe. I've made it before so I'm not worried.

K - I'm going to go put a smile on my face and try on my new attitude (lip curl). Later!

Oh - have a great trip Jane! Talk to you Thursday or Friday!

10 Things I Need

1. New windows - my house is so drafty you can't imagine. And understand, I love a cold house. I keep my heat set on 60, but I know my money is flying out the window with these old freaking things. And the cheapest (only) quote we've gotten is $8,000 which includes all sliding glass doors but since we're still paying off the heat pump, we're just going to have to suffer for a while longer.

2. New curtains - since it isn't likely that I'll be getting new windows any time in the near future I need some nice, heavy curtains for my dressing room upstairs and the dining room windows. Not to mention new curtains in the kitchen cause the ones there now are worn away in spots.

3. A vacation - I feel like these last few weeks before Christmas break might just break me. I'm in dire need of some time off and I don't know why. The kids aren't really driving me crazy. I just have no desire to teach right now. Maybe I'm just feeling this way because I have two IEP's this week and I hate sitting/planning for these meetings. Who knows. Maybe I've hit the "burnt out" point with teaching. Maybe I need a new attitude.

4. Ideas for Christmas gifts for Jim - I have two ideas for him but other than that - I got nothing. I always end up getting him a bunch of clothes and that gets so old. And he doesn't care about clothes. What the eff am I supposed to get him?!

5. Liposuction - I don't mind getting older - really - I just hate that my body is no longer as "elastic" as it used to be. And it doesn't seem to matter that I eat well and avoid crap for the most part - I just seem to be getting jigglier and jigglier. It's a bunch of shit.

6. My own personal ironer - One of my most hated "Sunday jobs" is having to iron for the week. It makes me sad that the weekend is over and it just bums me out. I need to hire someone to take this job over for me - then maybe I'd have a better attitude for going to school on Mondays.

7. A dog to English dictionary - because Bubba is sitting here staring at me and barking/howling. I just wish I knew what he was trying to say to me. I think it's "Mom, put the computer down, pet and cuddle with me," but that's just a guess. A pretty good guess I think.

8. A new bathroom - I need to redo the bathroom. I love baths and I would love to have a bathroom that were my sanctuary. Right now my bathroom is just a tiny little nothing. I need to figure out a way to get my bathroom up to my standards without costing me an arm and leg.

9. I need a finished basement. If I had a finished basement, I could have all my exercise equipment down there and then I'd have a svelte, rock hard, jiggly-free body. No liposuction needed.

10. To win the lottery - all of the above problems would be solved (maybe not the dog-to-English dictionary). They say that money doesn't make you happy but it sure would solve a lot of the issues that cause me stress.

Let's Have a Moment of Silence...

...for National Bundt (pan) Day!!! Damn it, I wish I had known this yesterday before I used my springform pan for the pumpkin cheesecake I made last night!!! DAMN IT!!! I feel like I've betrayed my bundt pan! Granted, I use my springform pan much more but maybe that's the point of this day. Right? To remember the bundt and remember to use it rather than letting it rust in the cupboard! I feel so guilty. I guess I'll just have to get my bundt out and make some monkey bread or something!

Mmm...monkey bread...

So, get this: I already did my grocery shop for the week! That's right! I did it yesterday! How good am I? This means that I can spend my time cleaning my filthy house! See, last week, after the Sami fiasco, I didn't do a really good clean. But today!!! Woo hoo!!! I'm going to have one clean house. Poor Jim. Oh well, it's a rainy day so who cares. And if we finish early, we can chill by the fire until it's time to go to Jane's.

Which brings us to our evening plans. Jane has a guest in from Chicago so she's having us over for dinner and a Euchre extravaganza!!! I can't wait. I haven't played Euchre in a while. Hmm...I think someone is going to hate being my partner tonight. Anyway, Jane's doing Filet Mignon, I've made the pumpkin cheesecake and I'm also making the crab meat dip for an app (delicious - just Velveeta, butter and crab meat; served with chunks of bread for dipping! An Arbaugh favorite). Then, tomorrow, I'll have Jane and guest over for breakfast: Fried bread, bacon and eggs. I'll have Jim pop to the store for some bread dough as, of course, it's the one thing I forgot yesterday. I always forget something.

K - must go rouse (arouse) Jim from bed so he can get these DAMN plants out of my way (he has some repotting to do)! Oh, and go cuddle with my pups! Later.

Happy Loosen / Lighten Up Day!!!

I'm liking today's zany holiday! Might have to tell that to a few people today.

Anyway, I'm feeling better but I was up for about 2 hours last night sick to my stomach. I think something I ate, however, didn't agree with me. Then along with that, Zeke was being crazy last night. Here's why: I've said before that Zeke likes to sleep on Jim's side of the bed, on the floor, right by the wall. Lately, he's been getting up in the middle of the night and lifting his front paws up on the bed and wagging his tail, thus thumping the wall. Now, you'd think he was trying to say to Jim, (in a stage whisper), "Dad! Move over!" However, he never gets in bed when Jim makes room for him. Well, last night he kept doing it, seriously, every 30 seconds. And once again, he didn't want up. And then I finally figured out what he was doing! Every time Jim started snoring, Zeke would hoist himself up, making a racket, and thump his tail against the wall. Jim would stop snoring and Zeke would plop back down on the floor. Is that not the craziest thing? I love my Zekey Zoo!!!

Well, I best get off to work. Things, I'm sure, were left in disarray yesterday since I had about 4 different subs covering for me. Might have to show videos all day just to get caught up and prepare for my two IEP's next week. Ugh!!!

K - later.

I Be Illin'

So, yesterday, at work, I steadily started going downhill - healthwise. I didn't know at the time if it was allergies or what. I'm now convinced it was allergies but at the same time, I started getting a monster headache that left my eyes crossed and my mind foggy. Regardless, I called in sick last night. Then, while I slept, my stomach started in with some interesting pains that I haven't experienced since I was a kid. I can't even explain it but we used to take paregoric to help remedy the symptoms. Interestingly, paregoric is an opium based medicine known to be used to "calm fretful children". Principle ingredient: Morphine. Can you imagine giving that to kids now? Dang! Sort of wish I had some.

Anyway - I just checked my email and found that of course, they had no sub for me! Figures. Oh well, I can't worry about that. I am still feeling a bit foggy and my stomach is still in limbo but I don't feel like I'll need to be sick tomorrow. I certainly don't feel like I have what Diane had a couple weeks ago.

Well, that's all I've got right now. I'm going to go lay on the couch and watch Top Chef (which started last night and I taped). Happy Thursday all!

I Need a "HEY" for Charlie!!!

Happy Birthday Charlie!!! I hope you have a great day! I'm so happy that you came into our lives! Otherwise I would have had to deal with Maggie, on my own, and having lived in California without much reprieve, you must know what a task that is!!! Ha! I hope your day is fantastic and Maggie will explain where your gift is! Let's just say Jim's a douche! Just kidding.

Anyway, have a great day, don't work too hard and we can't wait to see you at Thanksgiving!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!

P.S. That's Charlie standing up!

God I crack myself up!

Whole Lotta Nothing

I finally slept well last night - although I woke up sweating my ass off at around 1:30. That, however, may be because I was surrounded by dog (Bubba and Sami had made a Mommy sandwich) and Jim! Plus I have about 10 quilts on my bed AND we finally put flannel sheets on the bed. It's a mecca of cozy! Makes it hard to get out of bed in the morning.

Anyway, no exciting plans for the day. I'm going to work...yippee. (No exclamation point there.) I'm getting to the point where I feel a sick day coming on. I really have started to lose my luster for work. The kids have been fine - knock on the biggest block of wood please - but I'm getting a bit disheartened about my co-teaching (sitting there is getting really old) and I could so better use that time.

By the way, I think I may be getting dementia or Alzheimer's or something. I can't come up with the easiest words sometimes. Kind of scary. I know it's probably because I'm just getting old and it's 5:35 in the morning but dang! Sometimes I look at Jim and go, "What's his name?" Just kidding - I don't do that!!!

K - now that I'm completely rambling, I guess I better head upstairs and finish putting my ugly face on. I wish I had a pretty face to put on! (lower lip out). I have to stop at the store on the way to work - get milk for my cereal - and while I'm there I'm going to get a few things for tonight. I know that no one cares about all this but I'm saying it so that LISA!!! - you must remind me to grab my groceries when we leave today.

Happy Tuesday, Veterans Day and Death/Duty Day (I don't know what that is but it's a holiday today - weired). Later. And by the way, I originally had put "Happy Monday"...see, I'm losing my mind.

Nothing Exciting

I didn't sleep great last night. I woke up around 1:30 and couldn't get back to sleep. It was nice though because Sami was right in the crook of my belly - all cuddled up. Every time I adjusted my position, she would scootch right back into where she had been; as close as she could get. And then she would sort of groan/sigh in her sleep. I love her.

I don't know what time I finally fell asleep but I dreamt about Madonna. I was happy to wake up, I'll tell you that. In my dream, I think I was a reporter or something and I was following her around, back stage, right before a performance, trying to get an interview. She was such a Diva and a pain in the arse. I remember I kept thinking that it was no wonder Guy Ritchie was divorcing her - I would too - and all those crazy stories about her were probably true.

Ooh, I just realized too that I dreamt about the woman across the street from Jane. I don't remember much, just that she actually made the first move to wave at us while we were walking by. We know that'll never happen.

So, today shouldn't be too much a big deal. Monday's are always fairly easy for me - I show a video every Monday in Social Studies class - to get caught up on paperwork. Jim is going to be home early and I'm hoping we'll go to the Nature Center for a quick walk before they close at 5 - it's free on Monday's for non-members. Then I think we'll get home, I'll make a quick, easy supper, and we'll sit in front of the fire. We never got to light it yesterday because we got caught up in doing leaves. Good thing though, we got almost ALL the leaves in the backyard done and Jim installed a door in the back of the fence so it's easy dumping!!! Yeah!!! Slowly but surely, our fence is getting replaced.

Okay - best go finish my routine...happy Monday everyone!!!

The Way the Crow Flies by Ann-Marie MacDonald

Okay, well, I finished "Patty Jane's House of Curl" by Lorna Landvik. Loved it, loved it, loved it. Lorna Landvik reminds me so much of Fannie Flagg (recall, Fried Green Tomatoes, the movie made from her book - Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Cafe). One minute you're laughing your ass off, the next you're crying your eyes out. I loved the characters in it, I loved the story line, I loved the book. It's always an awesome thing to find a new author that you love. You'd think with all the books out there one wouldn't have a hard time finding a good one but it isn't always that easy. I plan on adding Lorna Landvik to my list and buying any book of hers I can get my hands on.

I am now on to my next novel. Though I didn't realize it, I've read this author before - Fall on Your Knees - a novel I read years ago (an Oprah book) and loved. I hope to love this one as well. It's an epic novel about the McCarthy family starting in 1962 (no coincidence the name and time period, I'm sure). The family has just moved to Canada from Germany where the father, Jack, has been put in charge of a top secret assignment: caring for a Soviet defector who will eventually be transferred to the Americans. Jack discovers that the defector was also a former Nazi officer who commanded slave labor at the German rocket research facility..hmm. At the same time, his daughter, Madeleine, is dealing with some abuses at school, until one of her friends is found murdered. The mystery continues as we fast foward to Madeleine's adult years and struggles to make sense of what happened during her childhood. I'm sure there will be an epiphany and realization about her father tied in there somewhere. We'll see. I'll start it today.

K - I'm off.

Sunday Plans

So, because I'm a slacker and haven't done a real grocery shop in forever, I have no food for breakfast this morning. Because of that and since the "Sami incident" prevented us from going to Costco yesterday (we didn't want to leave her), this morning, we're going to have breakfast at First Watch, go to Costco, stop in at Old Navy (see if I can find any reasonable black pants for work) and then head home for hanging out. We only need ground beef, gum, and dog food at Costco so it will be "in and out". All I need to do today is get my laundry done and iron for the week. I think Jim is going to mow the back yard (which should take care of most of the leaves back there) and then we'll hang in front of a nice fire.

Dinner tonight: Jim wants Beef Stroganoff. I'll do that and a head of broccoli with some nice bread. Delicious. It's my first Beef Stroganoff of the season. Can't wait.

Sami has been fine since Friday. She's been acting as she always does: Bossy one minute (to her boys) and sweet and cuddly the next (to Jim and I). I'm hoping that it was a one time thing but I keep thinking that we don't even know that it was a first. She's home all alone during most days and there's nothing to say it hasn't happened before. Jim's thinking about taking him with her to Spring Grove when he works there. Keep an eye on her. She loves to ride in the car and would love being with him. We'll talk about it today. Maybe he'll try it tomorrow and see how things go.

Well, I'm off to shower and get ready for my Tomato, Avocado, Bacon Skillet from First Watch! YUM!!!

Rough Night!

So last night was rough. It started great. Jane came over, we had appetizers, wine, Jim started a fire in the fireplace, and we just sat around and talked. Around 6:45, I got up to cook dinner. Everything was nearly ready, the dogs (Zeke and Sami) had just run outside to bark and act like maniacs. Jim saw Sami come up to the door, he opened it for her and realized something was wrong. From everything we could tell, she had a seizure. I've never seen a dog have a seizure but her eyes were completely dilated, she was stiff as a board with her legs straight out and if she weren't in Jim's arms, she would have fallen over. In a matter of 3 minutes, we were all in the car, racing for the vet and I was a total mess. I was not calm at all. Well, I wasn't hysterical but I couldn't stop crying and hugging my sweet Sami. One thing, as I've been reading about seizures in dogs this morning, she never had and "paddling" incident (moving her legs like she were running). Diane, how does Ozzie react when he has seizures?

Anyway, it seems the seizure - if that's what it was - only lasted a couple of minutes but she was shaking like a leaf in the car and was like a sack of potatoes; really heavy and she didn't want to move. Oh, and panting like she had just run for miles. When we reached the vet - in record time - she was a basket of nerves but seemed "fine". They put us in a room - where we sat for an hour and a half. They took her temperature. At one point, I went to the bathroom, came back and Sami finally seemed completely back to normal - jumping all over me upon my return and just happy to see me. It was then that we decided to leave, and call our vet on Monday. The reason being, the vet where we were would most like tell us that we would have to wait and see if she had another incident but in the meantime, do a battery of tests and charge us twice as much as our regular vet would.

So, we came home - dinner was ruined - Jim went and got Big Boys and we all sat around, watched Cast Away, and drank a soothing glass of wine (and a shot). I didn't sleep all that well. I kept waking up to check on Sami. She's been fine so far. Today Jane and I are going to go walk and Jim's going to stay home and monitor the baby. I need to get to Costco so we'll see. I may just hang at home and cuddle on the couch with all my babies. Keep your fingers crossed that this is a one time thing.

(P.S. How great would it be if there were snow like that right now!!!??? I can't wait!!!)

Jim Has ONE Job!!!

That's right! Jim screwed up again!!! His one job - let's all say it together - COFFEE!!! Does he ever remember to get it ready without a reminder? Um, NO!!! Driving me crazy!

Actually, I'm not mad - I'm just kidding. It was actually good that he got up because while I got ready, he searched the house for Spirograph - of which we could NOT find - sorry Lisa! Jim thinks I let Madison (niece) take it home with her several years back. Oh well! You know, Lisa, why don't we have one of those at school?

Anyway, I slept SOOOOOO good last night! I fell asleep, even before Survivor was over - so I didn't see the end - I'll watch it when I get home today. I only woke up early (4:43) because Jim popped out of bed realizing he had forgotten the coffee! Damn him!!!

This weekend will be full of resting, relaxation and errands. Tomorrow, Jane and I will walk, Jim and I need to go to Costco and then I plan on sitting on the couch, in front of the fire! Can't wait.

Okay - must skat and then head to work. Later!!!

Scary!!!

First: Thanks Jane, again, for dinner. Company was great. Steaks, great! Mac and cheese, deeeelicious! Pie, mmmm! Hold on, I'm still thinking about that pie! Anyway, we appreciate you asking and had a great time. Hope we didn't leave too abruptly and with too much clean-up.

So, on to the scary thing. Well, every morning, I get up and I check my email at work to make sure there isn't any "earth shattering" event going on that I should hurry into work for (or call in sick for). Today, there was an email from "Dot" saying she wouldn't be in today. Preface: Dot was out last Friday because she had to get her leg "scraped" for some cancerous cells. Everything went fine, they didn't even have to do any cutting (just the scraping) because the cancer cells were totally on the surface. Fast forward to yesterday. Dot goes to the dentist. The dentist sees her leg and tells her to go immediately to her doctor because there's some sort of infection. She goes and finds she possibly has MRSA!!! Holy Shitballs! That is a flesh eating, sometimes fatal staph infection. I'm thinking they caught it plenty of time because aside from putting her on a high dose of antibiotics, the doctor only told her she would have to be out (not around kids mainly) for one day. As long as everything is, I guess, not oozing (my read on the whole thing), she can get back to work on Friday. And by the way, I was going to post a picture but couldn't find one that didn't make me want to hurl! So, ladies, keep your healthiest thoughts on Dot!

K - best get my arse in gear and finish getting ready. Oh, and happy Pumpkin Chuckin Day!!!

Barney!

I have a friend - we'll call her Diane (since that's her name) - who has on her blog "The Daily Puppy". This was today's treat. Jim's reaction upon seeing sweet little old Barney was "Aw, shit!" I think that says it all! Man do I love puppies. And dogs in general. Looks a little like Molly doesn't it?

Sigh...

...of relief. I'll just say, yeah! And, what a load off. I kept waking up last night wondering what was going on (because I went to bed long before any news came out - though Obama was certainly in the lead). Anyway, I'm just happy. Enough said.

In bad news - Jean Schmidt won. Boo! But, Chabot lost - yeah! The casino failed as did many of the school levies - but not Loveland's. Anyway - an interesting last few months and I look forward to my phone NOT ringing. I'll be so lonely without that stupid Jean Schmidt calling! Not!!! I'd like to pull her little ribboned ponytail right off her head!

So, I never mentioned yesterday about the 3 1/2 hours that I had to sit in the Social Studies department meeting talking about curriculum mapping. What a freaking waste of my time. Seriously - I had not ONE thing to contribute. Joyce, my fellow sped social studies co-teacher kept trying to give her input but it was basically looking at the wording of what the "note taker" was typing. And HH kept showing up. I just sat there and did my crossword, jumble and sudoku while I drank my coffee and ate almonds. It just pisses me off that HH thinks our input is relevant in any way! Actually he doesn't - he just gives a shit about how things look! I'm not an expert in that content area. Hell, some of the social studies teachers didn't even feel comfortable contributing since they hadn't taught World Studies in 10 years. Just pisses me off that sped teachers just get stuck wherever - without a choice! These regular ed teachers don't give a shit about what I have to say. And I could be spending my time productively! Writing IEP's or scheduling IEP meetings. Oh well, my thoughts and opinions don't matter.

Okay - I'm done with my rant. Best finish getting ready. Later.

Oh, by the way, today is "National Men Make Dinner Day"...hmmm...I'm thinking I'll just let this one go by without a big celebration. Since Jim tends to burn bacon! Later

This Time Tomorrow...

I'm nervous. That's all I'll say. I've already voted - thank Jesus - so at this point it's just a matter of waiting it out. I think it will be close. We'll just have to see.

I'll be home early today - noonish - and probably hang with my pups and make dinner (penne pasta with vodka cream sauce, salad, garlic bread). Ooh, and take a walk (are we still on Jane?) around the neighborhood with Nessa. It will be hard, now that the time has changed to go to the Nature Center because it closes now at 5!!! =( So, to get the dogs some needed exercise/energy waster, we will try to walk the streets of Loveland a couple days per week. And still go to the NC on Saturdays or Sunday.

Side note: Jim's crazy!!!

K - I best get to work - a little earlier than I'm supposed to be there - because I have some "catch-up" emails that I must send off. Later - and fingers crossed!

Completely Bummed Out!!!

I can't believe I missed "Cookie Monster Day"!!! I love him! I love the way he loves cookies and needs cookies, sings about cookies and eats cookies. I feel horrible that he wasn't recognized by me on his special day. I wish I could go down to Sesame Street and hug him and give him a bag of cookies.

So today is Sandwich Day! I'll have to be sure to eat a sandwich for lunch. I'll be down at Eastgate in a seminar on "Accelerating Student Learning and Motivation in Your Social Studies Class". Blah, blah, blah. It's really just a BS seminar so I can get some contact hours. But, these seminars usually don't suck and I'm sure I'll get some ideas I can take back to school. Regardless, I'm out of the classroom today and I get a much needed break from my kids, today and tomorrow.

Tomorrow is our In-Service day. I have to be there at 8 and will be in crap until 11:30 but then, the powers that be are letting us "do our own thing". We can stay at school and do a required Child Abuse thing or do it on our own time in the future (prior to March). Pretty sweet, huh? I'm excited. And the fact that I already voted means that I won't have to go stand in line either. Cause you know the lines are going to be CRAZY!!!

Thanks Jane for dinner last night! It was absolutely delicious. And do you know that when we left, I thought it was 9:30 - because you hadn't changed your clocks yet? I was so confused. Oh well, I got to watch the best part of Amazing Race.

Okay - I better get my shizz together - take some "piddly" stuff to "work on" during the down time of my seminar. Happy Monday, Sandwich Day and let's all take another moment to celebrate Cookie Monster too! Later.

K - One Last Post For the Day!

Okay, I just wanted to put this out there: I was checking out the Farmer's Almanac for the week of Thanksgiving (as well as my birthday) and it looks like we're going to get some snow. Maybe some slushy rain. And it's going to be cold. I'm really excited for this. So, I'm thinking that you should all make sure that you get your gifts to me early so that the weather doesn't hinder you! I wouldn't want you driving around, putting yourselves in danger, just to ensure I have my many many gifts you've gotten me! I would suggest getting those to me at Thanksgiving or just mailing them to me. I'm just looking out for you! Hee Hee!

I was also seeing that the weather for December is going to be WAY below normal - temperature wise! We're talking negatives lows! Remember that December where we got -25 degree temps? Wow! I need some new windows! And insulation! And curtains for the dining room windows. And curtains for my dressing room! I better get on that cause December is right around the corner! K - later.

The Happening

Oh boy! So, Jim and I watched The Happening last night. It's an M. Night Shyamalan movie. Definitely a strange movie - much like his other movies - but a bit of a departure in the gruesomeness of it. Yowza, is pretty much all I can say. I liked it but, well, Yowza! I hope that shizz never happens in real life. If you haven't seen it, I recommend it (not you, Mom. You wouldn't like it) but, maybe, don't watch it alone! It isn't scary in the classical sense but it's just eerie and nice to have someone there to watch it with. The acting sort of sucked - I couldn't decide if Mark Wahlberg was being crappy on purpose or what (I think he was). Anyway, weird!

Big Dog, Little Dog

Man, this brings back memories (I typed mamories at first - that's funny). I loved this book as a kid. It cracked me up. And then later, I was friends with Adrienne who was 4'11 and Maggie called us Big Dog, Little Dog. Anyway the reason why I'm thinking about this was I went on People.com and Jennifer Garner and her daughter, Violet, dressed up as these characters for Halloween. I wish I had that book right now...I'd read it. And post it as a "Recent Read". Ah, good times!

So today, I'm walking with Jane at 9:30. I can't decide if I should fix breakfast before or after. Because of the time change (don't forget to reset your clocks), I'm up at 6:15. I'm sure by 11 (when I get home) I'll be famished. Dilemmas! Oh, well, I think I'll wait. Then it'll be brunch and I won't get hungry before dinner!

Other than that, I have no plans for the day. I need to get my laundry finished but that's it. I don't know what I'll do. I also need to get to Costco but I'll probably do that next weekend. I am totally out of chicken and ground beef! Christ Almighty am I ill-prepared for a blizzard or some other catastrophe that would keep me stranded at home. I really need to get it together.

Okay, I also had to post these pictures from Jane's party... Doesn't Nessa look all loopy and happy? And that's before anyone had even shown up yet. Jim and I look like fat cows but alas, what's a girl to do (maybe quit drinking and start exercising more, blah blah blah). Seriously though, Jim, not to be mean - and he said the same thing - looks bigger than he really is. He's not sitting up straight and his cheeks are all flushed and rosy and well, it just isn't the most flattering picture - I don't look too bad though and isn't that what really counts?

Okay - gotta go - sit around and do nothing. Until my walk, that is. Later.

Hangin Just a Bit!

So I'm just a tad groggy and foggy from last night. I didn't completely over do it but I did drink a fair amount. That's okay though - I still managed to walk home without skinning my knee, face or other body part. I had a great time and I know all the dogs had fun. There were a total of 7 there: Tollan, Saga and Nessa - all German Shepherds, Brutus - a bull mastiff, Emma - a mixed breed, Daisy - a golden and Dannon - a black lab with the boxiest head I've ever seen. I think Nessa is already planning her next party. I'm sure she slept like a rock last night. Anyway, thanks Jane for a great Halloween party - the food was awesome as was the company and conversation. Jim says "Ditto"!

Jim and I have already cleaned the house and he's getting ready to go on a bike ride here in a bit. I will be laying my ass on the couch after I finish typing here and trying to clear the cobwebs out of my brain. It may just be a Harry Potter Weekend!!!

Tonight I'm making Chicken Bowtie Pasta - simple and light - and probably vegging on the couch. I'm kind of excited about that. Plus we gain an hour tonight so BONUS!!!

Okay - I better get over to the couch because Sami's giving me her "You better get your ass over here and cuddle with me" look and I wouldn't want to piss her off.

Happy Saturday and Zero Tasking Day (today's funny holiday)!

Happy Halloween!!!

Not much time right now - I'm running late.

I slept like a baby rock last night! Awesome. I'll be well rested for tonight's Halloween Bonfire at Jane's. Can't wait.

So, today should be uneventful. My first two periods we're giving a test so I'll have lots of time to sit and do nothing. Then I have planning. Then I'm showing "The Haunting of Summerwind" - a little Halloween treat for the kids. After that - I have study halls and English - no biggie! I'll go to the grocery after school to get the makings for my Spinach Artichoke dip and then come home, get everything ready, walk the dogs, take a shower and maybe even have time for a catnap! Yippee!!! Ooh, I do have to go to the liquor store too...but that's up the street. No biggie.

Ooh, Maggie called yesterday to say that Cullen's first quarter grades came: 1st Honors!!! Kid's smart! I'm so proud. I know he worked really hard!

Okay - other than all that exciting stuff...I got nothing. God, I'm boring! I'll have more to talk about tomorrow - if I remember!

K - I'm skittily skat - outta here! (By the way - don't those "sisters" look like Sami a little? At least the one of the right)

Big Day!!!

Yeah, not really. I'm just glad it's almost Friday.

So this will be short and sweet because on my way to work I have to get gas and stop in Kroger to get some treats for the kids for a review game in World Studies this morning. Get all the kids sugared up for the rest of their day! We're playing bingo! Yippee!!!

Other than that, I've got nothing going on. I didn't sleep great last night. I kept waking up thinking I wasn't feeling good. But...I think I just had heartburn. Which is weird because I don't normally get heartburn. And then I just laid there contemplating getting up to get some Tums but then thinking we didn't have any and eventually I guess I fell back to sleep. I feel fine now though.

So tonight, I'm going to stop at the grocery on my way home to get the makings for an app for Jane's on Friday. I think Jim and I will eat leftovers for dinner tonight. Then, I'll be climbing in bed and cuddling with my pups. God, I can't wait.

K - best finish my routine. Later.

Friend Requests

Okay, so, I've recently got on Facebook because of an old friend from high school, trying to put a reunion together, asked me to. Well, as a result, I've met up with about 20 people that I've not seen/heard from in forever. Nice, right? The drawback? I'm getting "friend requests" from people who I don't want as friends. For instance, a certain someone who is "friends" with my brother, and is about 11 or 12 keeps requesting me to be his "friend". Now, why, do you ask don't I want to be his friend? Well, for one, he's slightly, okay, highly annoying. Second, he'll end up sending me info on shit like the Jonas Brothers (Maggie was his friend and she got this from him). I'm not 13. I don't give a shit about 13 year-old crap. Not to be mean.

Anyway, yesterday I finally gave in and confirmed him as a friend. Then, as Maggie told me to do, I went under my list of friends and deleted him. It says that he wouldn't be informed. Great. Problem solved.

Guess what I had on my Facebook this morning? Yup, another request by the kid to be his friend. Now, I know I'm popular and everyone wants to be my friend blah, blah, blah, but come on kid. Are you clueless too (along with annoying)?

I think I'll confirm and then delete him again and see what he does. If he tries again, I may just keep doing this. Maybe it'll teach him a much needed lesson. Is that mean?

Weasels At Work

So, a little explanation on the blog address/name change:

So I have a tracker on my blog and can see - in a round about way - who looks at my site. Meaning, I can see if someone with an AOL or road runner account looks at it. Now, I have this on my blog for the expressed reason of making sure no one at school is looking at it. I can also see, if I notice a new/different person has viewed my blog, how exactly they've hit upon it. For example: If someone searched "Cranky co-worker day" on google, my site meter will show that someone searched those words and my blog came up. Anyway, yesterday, someone, while at my place of work, searched my first and last name on google. I know it was someone at school because it showed our server as the service provider. Needless to say, we can't have a bunch of nosy Nancy's looking at my site. There are a few (one or two or 100) things said about certain someones at school that I wouldn't want everyone to read.

Anyway, I've tried to keep my name completely out of my blog at this point - or at least my first and last name together. I'd love to know who was searching my name and what they were hoping to find. Hell, maybe they found it. Scary.

Okay - I best finish with my beauty regiment - I know: What regiment? Finished getting ready then.

Oh, and by the way, today is National Chocolates Day!!! I think this may be my 2nd favorite holiday - after No Pants Day!

Later.

Cranky Co-Workers Day!!!

What a great observance! However, I'm not sure it this means I'm supposed to be cranky at work and everyone should celebrate me or are we celebrating those who are always cranky. I can think of one person who deserves a big old bouquet (or bouguet as Maggie may say I say) because holy crap can this woman be a grump. Anyway, I'm certainly liking this day but remember, fellow co-workers who read this - this is not a free pass to be bitches - well, any more than you already are!!! Ha - "Oh, no I didn't!"

So, I slept pretty good last night. Up until 4 AM that is, when Bubba decided that it was that time of year to haul his fat ass under the covers. He likes to get all the way at the bottom of the bed. I didn't really mind though, especially since he went on Jim's side of the bed and breathed on his legs. By the time he wanted out, it was just about time for me to get up anyway. I love that boy.

So this week should suck, just a little bit, in regard to my co-teaching classes. We're in the auditorium all week because of make-up OGT's (Ohio Graduation Test). Not too big of a deal - it just means less disciplinary control over the little rugrats. However, we have a couple of good classes - a lot of honors kids. Makes you wonder why I'm even in there - especially since there are only 4 special ed kids in the 4 classes when Joyce has 28 in her 4 classes. Crazy. No complaints, however.

So this time next week, I'll still be sleeping! See, I have a professional day next Monday and then next Tuesday is our in-service! I'll get to sleep until about 6:30 two days in a row!!! Next week is going to rock!

K - that's all I've got! Later.

Patty Jane's House of Curl by Lorna Landvik

So, I finished The Story of Edgar Sawtelle. I really loved it. I won't say much more about it because Jane is still reading it and I know Maggie is probably in the midst as well. All I will say is that for anyone who loves, even likes dogs, they should read this. It is such a great book about so many things and after you finish reading it, you will keep thinking about it. I keep recapping so many things and realizing so many things. Why certain things happened and understanding why the author must have done what he did. Read it. You'll understand.

So now I'm on to the next novel. I started reading a Stephen King that Cullen gave me but I decided to go with something a bit lighter. So, I'm reading a book by an author, new to me. This one's about Minnesota sisters, Patty Jane and Harriet. Patty Jane is newly married - and abandoned - pregnant and trying to deal. Her sister is also in some dire straits - her husband has tragically died. It's supposed to be an emotionally tender and comedic novel about the bonds between women. Sounds good to me. I'll let you know.

K - I'm off to take a nice, long, hot bath and begin my book...later.

Hofbrauhaus & Fright Night

Okay, so I thought I wasn't a screamer when it came to scary things but apparently I am. USS Nightmare was pretty good in terms of scariness. I think the best part was just the whole anticipation of someone jumping out at you at any time. There was one point where clowns were the focus and I did not like that! And the clown workers must have heard me say that I hate clowns too because they cornered me on my way out. All in all, it was a good haunted boat - really long too.

Before hand we went to Hofbrauhaus which was really good. We all had a beer, then Jane and I had a delicious buttery nipple shot, and moved on to vodka. Jim had a plate full of sausages, Tanya (spelling) had pork medallions and Jane and I both had the Kentucky hot brown. It was awesome. I could eat that every day - of course it probably had about 42,000 calories. Oh well, you only live once.

We were home by about 10 PM and I tried to watch some of SNL (because Coldplay was on) but didn't make it much past midnight. I also started a new book (more on that in a bit) but kept falling asleep.

This morning, I made my usual breakfast - Jane joined us - and I just got my Brunswick stew in the crock pot. YUM!!!

Other than that, I've got nothing going on. I just need to iron my clothes for the week and then I'll maybe sit outside and read my book. Exciting, huh?

Okay - off to iron. See all you bitches later. (By the way, the photo of Jim - looking all kinds of studly at Hofbrauhaus - is a copy from Jane's' blog - thanks Jane!)

One More Nature Center Picture

Okay, so this picture - I copied it off Jane' s blog - really gives you an idea of the steps and how many there actually are (click on the picture to make it larger). My ass aches just thinking of it. It better be getting smaller!

Nature Center Pictures

So here are a couple pictures from our walk today at the Nature Center. You can sort of get a sense of the number of steps there are. Isn't Nessa cute with her little backpack!? (Don't pay any attention to how gay I look!) In the 2nd picture, right above my head is where we climb to! It's crazy!