Tough Night

And not just because I had Parent/Teacher conferences from 4-7:30.  I had a 2 hour meeting with my fellow speds (although 2 of the 6 didn't show...bullshit!) to put together a presentation (that I will NOT be presenting).  If 2 people can opt out of putting the presentation together, those 2 people can do the presenting.  And one of the people?  BFC!  She gets out of everything because she thinks nothing pertains to her since she "teaches" (HA!) the low, low, low kids.  Whatever!  The presentation is being thrust upon all sped departments in the district!  Suck it up!  And, she claims she didn't come to yesterday's meeting because she had conferences.  Well, first of all - that's bullshit.  She has 8 students in her room.  Even if every parent showed up, that's only an hour and 20 minutes worth of conference time.  Plus, she's had IEPs all week with at least 3 of her kids!  You know those parents weren't coming in. 

Another reason it was a tough night is because when I came home last night, Sami was acting WAY weird.  She was fine at first but then as I was settling down on the couch before heading up to bed, she came over to lay in my lap.  Well, she started shaking uncontrollably.  Not seizing but like she was cold.  And she was incredibly listless...like a limp rag.  And then she kept doing this thing:  She kept looking up at the ceiling - it was almost as if someone kept putting their finger under her chin and tilting her head up.  So weird.  There were a couple times I thought she was about to start seizing but she never did.  However, I feel like whatever was happening to her was little tiny seizures.  I don't know.  Needless to say, I didn't sleep great (for the 2nd night in a row) because I kept waking up to see what she was doing.  Most of the night she was with me, lying right beside me but I had to check to see if she was breathing and not shaking.  Ugh!  Poor baby. I'll be worried all day long!

Okay - well, that's all I've got.  It's Pumpkin Chuckin Days (from the 5th - 7th): Time to get rid of all your rotting Jack-o-Lanterns.  I had a student come in yesterday with a broken wrist (my unstable supposed autistic kid) because she punched a pumpkin in anger.  Her mother has recently been emailing me about some issues she's dealing with at home.  None of what she talks about is witnessed at school but I think - call me crazy - that it's because the mother has been working 80 hour work weeks and has not time for her daughter.  Considering it's just the two of them, they've only recently moved down here from the Cleveland area and she has no friends that she hangs out with outside of school...I'd be pissed and throwing fits too. 

K - I'm out...can't wait to get back home today!  So tired!  Later!

Sickly Seizure Sami

Well - talk about a rough day.  And let me preface by saying that Sami is fine...now.  Yes, she had another seizure.  I don't think I can take another one though...I don't know how she does it.  Of course she isn't sitting there watching herself while it's happening and I can only imagine what her poor little brain is having to deal with but for me?  Her mommy?  Terror!  How I wasn't running around screaming and crying (I cried afterward), is a wonder.

So, I got home today - later than usual because we had an extra long early release meeting.  I probably walked in the door at 3:30...normally I'm home by 3:00.  I got my clothes changed, had a quick chat with Maggie and then Sami and I were out the door for a quick walk.  On our way back, the neighbor kids were out and little boy neighbor Zeke (I know...isn't that funny that my neighbor's kid is named Zeke?  Needless to say he's obsessed with furry Zeke) came over wanting to pet Sami. He and Maddy did and then Sami and I went inside.  I got my coat and shoes off and then followed Sami through the dining room toward the kitchen (she likes a carrot after her afternoon constitutional) when I noticed she was swaying a bit with her tail between her legs and then she fell over.  I, of course, knew right then that she was about to go full blown seizure...which she did.  It lasted about 4 1/2 - 5 minutes.  Her eyes rolled back in her head (hadn't seen that before) and she was seriously in grand mal state!  Shaking and clawing and just UGH!!!!  There were a couple times she stopped breathing and I had to pick her up or walk her around to "remind" her.  So scary!  I had to call Jim in the midst because I just needed someone to talk to...keep me a little sane (he did great by the way).  I ended up hanging up with him though to call the vet - you know to reassure myself that she would be okay and I was doing the right thing.  I was tempted to just jump in my car but being alone...I waited, hoping (like all the other times) it would stop.  It did.  Thank you Jesus!

In the end, it looks like it's happening about once a year.  I looked it up on my blog here to see what the timeline for Sami's seizures have been.  This was her 3rd (that we know of).  Her first was November, 2008.  The last one was December 2009.  Here now is November 2010 (guess I didn't need to tell you that).  The doctor said that if we see it happening closer to every three months, then it's time to put her on anti-convulsive meds.  Next time (please God let there be no more)...Jim can be the one to deal.  I think it shaved about 3 years off my life. 

Funny thing?  When it first started, Bubba came over and I just looked at him and said, "Go away!  Sami needs room!" And he walked away.  Then Zeke came over and I said, "No Zeke!  Sami needs me by herself!" (Those two sometimes play little mommy attention games) And Zeke walked away.  I have good (though rather high maintenance) puppies.

Needless to say, by the way, I need a drink!  Sami could probably use one too but she's content right now to lay in a chair where she can see me and sleep.  She's exhausted.  I love her so much - it just makes me nuts to see her suffer! 

Okay - I'm going to go curl up on the couch with her and love and cuddle!

A Rare Day Off

Can I just say how nice it was to sleep in this morning?  Although I don't think it's considered sleeping in when you're awake by 6AM.  However, I didn't get out of bed until 6:30 - an hour and a half later than I usually arise.  Regardless, I didn't wake up from a blaring alarm clock and THAT was nice!  I am very sneezy, however, and that's annoying me.  I think it's because I finally caved and turned on the heat this morning.  It was 56 degrees in my house and perfect for sleeping but not hanging on the couch with my babies. I think the stagnant air that blew out of the vents may have tickled my sinuses and now I'm a sneezy mess.  I'll walk Sami in a bit and hopefully the cool, crisp air will nip my effed up nose in the bud.

So, I've mentioned before about my crazy parent, right?  Which one, you ask?  Well, it's probably been awhile since I mentioned her because her son is a senior and I haven't had to talk with her in over a year.  I send her emails every week on grade updates but until a couple weeks ago, I hadn't spoken to her since I last did her sons IEP.  Anyway, she is my Jewish mother (I know that sounds bad and I'm not being rude but alas, she is my only Jewish parent and she is your stereotypical Jewish mother.  She is also a maniac!).  Anyway - I called her a couple weeks ago to set up the annual IEP meeting for her son.  When I called - I made sure I had a good 1/2 hour to waste on the phone while she ranted and raved about completely irrelevant things.  To my surprise, however, she told me she didn't want to meet - that she would prefer to just "do this over the phone".  I was thrilled.  I ended up completing the IEP and sending it home yesterday. 

One thing she did bring up on the phone, was getting accommodations for her son to take the ACT.  Her son has completely illegible writing and has on his IEP the use of a computer for essays etc.  I told her I would look into what kind of accommodations were available and get back with her - which I did.  For the ACT.  Well, after emailing her the information, she tells me last week that her son is registered to take the SAT on Nov. 6 and what could I do for him.  (November 6th...this Saturday).  So I emailed her and told her that the regular deadline for that test date was Oct. 8th and the late registration was Oct. 22.  Because those dates had passed and requests for accommodations/special paperwork had to be filled out and wasn't, there would not be a possibility for accommodations.  She emailed me back on Friday after the school day and said, "Would you please submit it anyway?" I wanted to email back and say, "No...that would be a waste of my time."  Instead, I just forwarded it to the guidance counselor and said, "Can you explain it to her because she doesn't seem to be understanding it from me." 

So yesterday, I go the whole day doing my Monday stuff:  Paperwork (emailed parents grade updates), teaching etc. and when the day ended at 2:30, I was out the door excited for a day off.  I get home, do one last check of my school email before forgetting about school for 24 hours and what do I have but an email and phone call from the above mother.  Phone call left at 3:11 PM and email at 3:15.  All that she said was "please call me".  Well, lady - you left those for me after my school day had ended and I won't be back in the building until 7AM Wednesday so I will call you at my convenience then.  WHAT THE EFF, though!?  I can't wait until this kid graduates! 

Okay - well, I'm going to go eat breakfast and then start sewing, sewing, sewing.  I'll take pictures of my finished quilt when I'm done.  Later!

A Quickie

I have a 7AM IEP (without parent) so I need to scoot.  Just really getting signatures.  This is probably my worst parent on my caseload so you can imagine how thrilled I was when she said, "Can we just do this over the phone?"  ABSOLUTELY!  Of course, she's still being a pain in my ass but that's a long story - longer than I have time for right now. 

So, the Bengals lost.  To tell the truth, I didn't watch much past the first 1/2.  Carson looked good in that time and the offense did a great job protecting him...our defense just isn't what it should be.  Bummer to have lost but I'm still a fan and will continue to root!  Who dey!

I'm am nearly finished with my 1st quilt.  The only thing left is to do the binding around the edges.  It's all pressed and ready for sewing.  I'll have to do it by hand so on my DAY OFF!!!! tomorrow...that is what I'll be doing!  By the way...SOOOOOOOOOO happy to have tomorrow off!!!  And I will be sooooo happy when all these crazy political ads end.  They are vicious this year and completely NOT about politics...well, governmental politics that is. 

Made the Crock Pot Lasagna last night.  It was good.  A nice solid GOOD.  Lots of leftovers.  The recipe called for 1 can of crushed tomatoes which made NO sense and I added a second can but realistically - it should have been 3...it just wasn't saucy enough.  My lasagna is better but this was definitely a no hassle option.

K - I'm out...cold as shit out there...wish I could climb back in bed with my babies.  Wah!  Later!

Baby Tuck!!!

So, as you can see, we have two hands and a rather impressive noggin!  Little baby Tuck was doing somersaults and acrobatic moves so Maggie didn't have the best photo to send but alas, there he/she is!  Isn't that crazy!?  Tuck is still causing Maggie to hurl but hopefully with the meds (anti-nausea) she'll power through.

Okay so last night Jim and I didn't go to eat hibachi.  Instead, we went to Texas Roadhouse.  I had never been there and I'll tell you, I could do without all the country crap (I've had my fill of country music for the rest of my life) but the food was certainly delicious.  Everything seems to be fried, mashed and coated in butter or gravy so I could probably only eat there once a year but it was still deeeelicious.  All their sides are made from scratch and I'll tell you - they were the best part of the meal.  I had ribs and Jim had the pork chops.  The really cool thing?  The hostess who seated us found out that it was our first time there so the manager came over with a sampling of their most popular sides:  Green beans (Dad would LOVE these), baked beans, mashed potatoes (lumps and all) and chili. Then at the end of our meal, she came over and gave us a free app coupon for our next visit.  Wasn't that nice?  Anyway, a good meal and good service...OH!!!!  I forgot!!! Their margaritas!!!  Holy shit how could I forget (well, maybe because they were THAT good)!!!  Best strawberry margarita I've EVER had!  Creamy and smooth and packed full of alcohol!  Mmm, mmm, good. 

Okay so, today I plan on making breakfast here in a few (haven't had fried bread in months...can't wait), doing some yard work, going to the bookstore (1/2 price didn't have the book I was looking for yesterday) and then - positive attitude - watching the Bengals.  WHO DEY!!!  Other than that, I'll be working on my quilt and making Slow Cook Lasagna for dinner.  We'll see how that goes.  Maggie made it the other day and said it was good but then she threw it all up later that night (BAD TUCK!!!) so she'll not be making it again.  Oops.

Oooohhhh, got some "new" music yesterday too.  Bought Cake - Fashion Nugget, Pearl Jam - Vitology (a replacement for mine that was stolen...so happy - I could listen to this all day long!!!) and an old David Gray - A new day at midnight.  Excited...each for under $4!  Love me some Half Price Bookstore!

Time to make the donuts!  Later!

Grab Your Coat & Get Your Hat...

I woke up singing "On the Sunny Side of the Street".  It's because I watched Oprah the other day when Jane Fonda was on and she dances to this with her "mate" every night...it was her father's favorite song.  Funny the things that creep into your head when your sleeping. 

Speaking of creeping...today is Haunted Refrigerator Night.  My refrigerator isn't haunted - I don't think - but it certainly has a mind of its own.  Knock on wood...it's lasted this long and yes I would like to get a new one (stainless - it's the last item in the kitchen that needs replacing to match) but I would like it to last at least until after X-mas.  Or longer.  Refrigerators are expensive so I'm not in a huge hurry.  Anyway it's also National Candy Corn Day, Devil's Night and Create a Great Funeral Day.  I have so much "celebrating" to do today. 

So what will I be doing besides eating lots of candy corn and planning my funeral?  Um...going to 1/2 Price Books for one.  I have a coupon that needs using and a couple books that I want to check on.  I will also, of course, be grocery shopping and cleaning.  Jim's going to head down to Clifton to work until about noon so I'll be on my own 'til he gets home.  I'll hopefully be working on my X-mas quilt too.  All my squares are cut and I started laying out my pattern...it looks good (if I do say so myself).  Jim and I will be going out for dinner tonight.  We didn't go last night...I made White Chicken Chili and we just hung out with the babies and Charlie Brown.  I want to go to eat a hibachi place - loves me some delicious Japanese please. 

Maggie update:  She went to the doctor yesterday and the got to see "Tuck" again.  Tuck was jumpin' around like a little maniac, apparently.  They got another picture - and she was SUPPOSED to send it to me - but alas, she's a fool and hasn't yet!  The doc said everything looks great!  She also got a prescription for her morning sickness.  She's become great friends with the terlit lately and needs some relief.  It has not been a good few weeks for poor Mags and of course, as they say, it's a good sign but I'm sure she's ready to move on from this and have a nice, enjoyable pregnancy.  She seems to have it worse than most and it leaves her unable to do much during her day because of the nausea.  Hopefully the meds will carry her through the last couple weeks of her first trimester and she'll be done with morning sickness.

Okay - well, I don't have anything else to ramble on about.  I really should walk Sami but it's waaaaayyyy too cold for that right now...30 degrees!  Eeeekkkk...we don't even have the heat on yet...I refuse!  I mean, it's going to get up to around 65...I can handle it.  K - I'm out...later!

Finally! It's Frankenstein Friday!!!

Hee hee.  You must walk like Frankenstein today, wherever you are.

So I don't have a lot of time here (I think I say that just about every morning and then still end up writing a normal post)...must get to work, write an IEP, get an ACT registration form filled out and to the guidance counselor, get IEPs in the mail, and prepare for next week - including getting Lily's work for next week gathered.  Ugh!  Good thing it's movie day in class.

So, after a terrible week with Pinocchio, my VP has finally decided to try and figure out an alternate placement for him.  By the way, he was sent to the office again yesterday...Kim's doing, not mine.  Although I would have done the same thing, had I been there.  If you will recall, I was in OGTs (monitoring) and when Pinocchio entered my room, he had a pop.  Kim told him to put it on the back table and he could have it when he left for lunch.  He threw it across the room and under the table.  Kim said, "Well, looks like now you can't have it for lunch." (I can just hear her saying this too, all calm and without even batting an eyelash or raising her voice.)  So then Pinocchio says, "I didn't want the
f%&king pop anyway."  And we're batting a thousand!  To the office he went.  So that made a total of 4 office visits this week (2 from me; 1 from his Health teacher and 1 from Kim).  My VP made his mother pick him up yesterday.  He now has a 2% in my LA class and a 44% in history. 

Later in the day, I hear that my VP is going to check out placing Pinocchio into the nearby school for behaviorally challenged kids.  We apparently (our district) have 4 seats there and are only using 2.  Each seat costs about $17,000.  Sounds like the perfect place for my little trouble maker.  We'll see though.  On Monday, I'll have a meeting with my VP and sped supervisor to discuss Pinocchio and see if the school is an option.  I'm collecting info and I've got lots of data to back up the behavior.  Ugh...what a pain in my ass.  At least we're off next Tuesday though.

Okay, I'm going to go finish getting ready.  Later!  White Chicken Chili for supper tonight!

First Of All...

...I'd like to wish each and every one of you a happy, happy, happy Chocolates Day!!! I think we should get a day off for this! I shouldn't complain though because we get election day off and let me tell you - I need a day away from these crazy kids at school.  The weekend just isn't enough.  And I know I just had last Thursday off but I think I've come to the realization that a 5 day work week just doesn't work for me.

Second - I don't have a lot of time because I have to monitor OGTs today (Ohio Graduation Test) and didn't get any plans together yesterday for the sub.  Ugh.  So worried about my fools being idiots.  I should probably just have videos for my 2nd and 3rd periods but I really need to get them moving along on the novel so we can do other stuff...like read another novel.  Ugh!  I don't know what to teach these kids.  Sucks!

Third - I don't have much to say...nothing exciting is going on here or at work.  No new news to report on the BFC front...although I was in a meeting yesterday where she was and I looked at her (normally I try to avert my eyes) and I noticed...she really isn't a very pretty woman.  She's sort of heinous...but maybe that's because she's such a hateful person.  Hmm...who cares...why waste my thoughts on her.

Fourth - I better mosey, get upstairs to finish what I started and head in early to work.  Ugh...work...blah!  Later

Happy Cranky Co-Workers Day (Kim, Diane & Lisa)!!!

Perfect!!!  I feel like I've been a bit cranky all week.  Well, mostly toward these STUPID F&*KING KIDS!!!  But, some of that's probably rubbed off on my colleagues and today?!  I don't have to apologize for it because I'm just celebrating!!!  So - lets start the day off right:  SUCK IT, Co-workers!!!

Ah, I feel better.

So last night I slept pretty well but I kept waking up with the night sweats!  I HATE that!!!  Must be peri-menopause!  Damn - I can't believe I'm getting old!  Not that I care about getting old but why do women have to go through this shit?  Do men have anything happen to them as they reach (pass) middle age?  I don't think they do!?  What kind of bullshit is that?!  I'm a little pissed at God for that!?  Maybe I'll just start randomly kicking Jim in the nuts.  I'll tell him it's part of getting old.  You know - one of the symptoms of middle age.  I don't think he'll go for that. 

Well, Bubba is supposed to go back to the vet AGAIN today.  You all probably think I've made this whole thing up.  I swear, who knew a cancerous lump would be so hard to remove.  I mean, the damn thing was HUGE before and now...gone.  Jim said last night that he thought he was going to just call the doctor and tell him it wasn't visible still.  What's the point of freaking poor Bubs out (getting him in the car - he gets carsick, hauling him into the vets office etc.) if they're going to just turn us away again?  He's pissed enough as it is that he didn't get his carrot this morning (in case he does go in and have surgery - no food past midnight).  What a pickle.

K - well - I best head out.  It's chilly!  Oh, I didn't mention (for Mom) the storms we had yesterday.  Lots of wind and rain and tornado warnings.  We were forced to go into Tornado Mode yesterday at school 'cause the sirens started going off.  Crazy.  In 10 years, that has never happened.  No damage at my house...a couple of large parts of trees came down within the circle just outside but nothing major.  We did lose power, however, and I'm sure Zeke was shitting in his fur.  On my way home, I had to turn around a couple times too and go a different route because of fallen trees in the road. 

Anyway - that's all I've got...better mosey.

Kids & Parents Are A Pain In My Ass!

Not kidding.  I don't know what it was about yesterday but I tell you, I could have drop kicked several annoying students.  Pinocchio was in prime form.  Mondays are always fun with him.  He acts like it's the first day of school all over again - not knowing the rules, not knowing what's expected of him, being a general douche bag.  Every Monday I seriously feel like I have to start all over with my kids to get them on track for a week of school. 

Example?  Well, since you asked.  So, yesterday, I'm reading aloud in language arts class...Pinocchio, as usual isn't following along and I've already told him about 200 times to sit up.  Finally I stopped reading for the thousandth time and said, PINOCCHIO!!!  Stand up!!!"  Well, he must have assumed that I was going to say, "Follow along" and he was allllll prepared to just repeat anything I said and his reply (as he slouched over, lazily in his seat), "I AM STANDING UP!!!"  What a f%*king fool!  All I could do is look at Kim and say, "Could your write that down?" 

Another Pinocchioism:  The other day, he was (shocker) being a weird pain in the ass and one of the other kids said, "Why is Pinocchio doing that?"  Me:  "Cause he's weird."  Pinocchio's response:  "Why are you guys always accusing me of stuff?!"  Well, it is true...I do accuse him all the time of being a weird-o!

Idiot answer in class:  So, in language arts class yesterday, I was reading aloud from our novel.  The characters in the book are on their way to Yellowstone to see Old Faithful and so I asked, "Who knows what Old Faithful is."  Answer (not sure which idiot said this): "A HORSE!!!"  Actually, that's not a bad guess.  I mean, Old Yeller was a dog. 

So, now you must be asking why parents are such idiots.  Well, short story.  I have an IEP today.  I emailed the parent in late September (a month prior to the IEP due date) to find out her best available time/date.  She emailed back saying that any time/date would work because she works from home.  I emailed back and said, "How about 10/26 at 7:30 AM?  Of course I get no response.  So, on Oct. 6, I email again and say I'm going to set the date/time then and I would send a formal, written invite in the mail which I did, next day.  So yesterday, her son brings me the parent response from the invite saying tomorrow is fine but she would like to meet after noon.  ARG!!!!!!!!!!!!  You had nearly three weeks from the time I sent the invite and you tell me this the day before!?  Sorry lady, subs are set up and I've got this all planned...noon just ain't gonna happen!  I called and gently, politely (while rolling my eyes) told her that I would have been able to change the time had I gotten her request sooner but with the meeting tomorrow...it just wasn't possible. Sorry (hang up) bitch!

K - I best head out. Supposed to rain lots today!  Yeah!  Maybe we'll finally get a chance to bury Betty!  Later!

Another Holiday With Me In Mind!

Sourest Day!  Hm...is this in celebration of sour candy or is it in celebration for the counter-opposite of Sweetest Day where you celebrate exes?  Ah...I've looked it up:  Sourest day is the opposite of Sweetest Day (which Jim and I don't celebrate).  It's for the jaded people - those whose lives have served them up lemons with no sugar to make it sweet.  Soooo, maybe NOT a holiday for me.  I don't feel jaded but I like the idea of an opposite of Sweetest Day (which is a stupid "holiday" conceived, as we all know, by the greeting card industry to sell cards!)  I wonder when Bitter Day is.

Okay so when I got up this morning I wanted to stomp my foot and whine, "I don't wanna go to school!!!" Stomp!!!  I completely feel like this was not a long enough weekend.  I want to sit on my couch for one more day and continue working on my quilt.  I got so far yesterday!  If only I had one more day of lounging to work on it!  STOMP!!!

So Bubba goes back to the vet today.  Who knows what will happen.  There is every chance that he will finally get his lump removed but who knows.  Jim has to take him in at 11 - I believe - and then we'll see.  If he does have his "surgery" I'll probably call in tomorrow even though I have an IEP.  I'll just go in for my IEP and then come home.  It's at 7:30 so I'll be back by 9:00.  Ooohhh, then I could work on my quilt.  Not that I want to have Bubba with a wound but I do want it gone so we can move on.  And get him off the damn prednisone.  I'm telling you - that shit makes Bubba fart like you wouldn't believe.  I'm pretty sure we're going to have to repaint every room in the house because the fumes from his arse have melted the paint right off the walls.  It is lethal!

K - I'd best head out.  Later!

Feeling A Sickness

Ugh.  I woke up with the worst bloody nose I've ever had.  Jim thinks its because Bubba's farts have scorched the lining of my nose...he may be right.  Bubba has been so gassy lately (must be the prednisone) - he's nearly cleared rooms, I'm tellin' ya.  Anyway - I woke up with my nose bleeding, I'm all stuffy, my eyes are watering and my throat feels a tinge of soreness to it.  (It might be malaria after working in the yard yesterday...what are symptoms for malaria?)  I'm going to load up on liquids and meds today because I DO NOT want to be illin'! 

In fence news we managed to get the sections of fence complete yesterday that needed replacement (well, all the old stuff needs replacement but it's expensive - about $300 for 6 sections worth of fence). We replaced 5 sections yesterday though Jim bought enough wood for 6.  I didn't think it would take that long, a couple hours.  Well, 4 1/2 hours later and we had completed the job.  I had a few nicks and cuts and bruises and skeeter bites out the wazoo but alas, it's done.  The process was laborious.  First we had to collect all the tools we needed down in the yard.  We had to unload all the wood that Jim bought too (about 90 slats and then 18 cross pieces). Then we had to remove the old fence.  Next, we had to clear out all the shit behind the fence so we could work.  We cut down about 5 honeysuckle bushes that were about 7 feet tall and a dead tree.  After that, we had to haul all the old fencing out of the way.  We were then ready to measure and cut the wood supports that lay across each section.  Three pieces for each section.  That took the longest amount of time.  At one point, Jim hit the fatigue wall and was stumbling around like a drunk.  I just had to have complete patience (which I managed to do without kicking him and cussing him out) and hand him tools while making sure he didn't cut his hands off.  Once he got past that stage, we were in the final stretches of placing and screwing in the slats.  We worked like clockwork really - Jim drilled the screws and I placed the slats.  Surprisingly, we do work well together. 

Uh, oh!!!  Bubba just came in to hang with his Momma and he's already stinkin' up the room.  Damn Bubba!!!

I'd post a picture - of the fence - but because the wood isn't seasoned it looks weird cause it's a different color than everything else.  Come spring, we'll have all replaced (except what's behind the massive wood pile), it will have seasoned and we'll treat/stain it.  THEN I'll take a picture.

Okay, well, that's all I've got...I'm going to go make breakfast.  Later!

Tuck (TUQ)

So I called Maggie yesterday evening to discuss some issues I was having with Project Runway.  When she answered, I said, "I have a new nickname for you."  Maggie: "Uh oh...what?"  Me: "TUQ.  Throw up queen."  Well, in the end, I decided on Tuck being the babes new nickname.  Cause, see, I call all the babes in my life (not Madison..hmm...) something different.  I didn't come up with all the nicknames but they become mine regardless.  Max = Chomper.  I think I'm the only one that still calls him that and he probably hates it but at this point its more "natural" for me to say Chomper rather than Max.  I call J.J. - JBird.  I don't know if I came up with that or not and it doesn't matter...that's who he is...my little J Bird.  And now - Maggie's little bean will be Tuck...and it works for a boy or girl...don't you think?  Now, will we tell little Tuck that the origins of his/her name come from puking?  Hmm...maybe...we'll have to see now won't we?

Well, last night was an adventure.  (Prepare yourselves for a boring story.)  So, I called Jim yesterday and asked him what he was thinking about for dinner.  I wanted a burger...he wanted steak so I said, "Hey, I've never been to Texas Roadhouse...how about that?"  Jim was in agreement.  However, the MF-er didn't get home till about 7...I knew this wasn't going to bode well for us....but we drove down anyway.  Oh, and can I tell you that I was STARVING!!!! at this point and not the best company!?  I turn into someone completely different (not nice) when I've crossed the border from hungry to starving (I can honestly say here: Poor Jim).  Anyway, the wait for a table (no room at the bar) was over an hour...see ya...later.  So we ended up at Red Robin.  I've been "off" Red Robin lately because their burgers are too thick for me but alas - we went there any it was deeeelicious.  I ended up in food coma and was in bed 1/2 hour after returning home. 

So I've been having weird thingys happening to me lately.  It's either A) Peri menopause B) I'm getting old or C) I have some sort of disease/sickness.  First, I've been getting little tiny dizzy spells.  Nothing major...they last about 1 second.  Second, more and more frequently, my ears are ringing.  Annoying.  A couple weeks ago, it actually kept me awake...it sounded like a forest-full of crickets were camped in my pillow directly under my ear. UGH!  Then, yesterday, my arms felt like Popsicles.  It was like I couldn't get proper circulation in my arms.  Oh, and if it wasn't my arms, it was my hands.  Or rather...if my hands were warm, my arms were freezing; if my arms were warm, my hands were ice cubes.  It was weird.  And then my face was hot as hell - red and flushed...like I was on fire.  Maybe a hot flash but only on my face and it didn't make me sweat.  Weird.  So my diagnosis?  No idea?

Okay so Saturday plans:  I'm going to walk Sami here soon.  I need to go to the grocery.  I need to clean the house.  Jim is going to head to Lowes soon to get fencing materials.  We're going to replace the rest of the fence in the back today.  We also need to get the leaves that have fallen in the past week - up.  I need to figure out what I'm going to do for dinner.  Jim needs to get more pills for Bubs...we ran out after his dose this morning.  Um...I can't think of anything else.  Pretty packed, boring day. 

How happy am I that the Rangers beat the Yankees?  First time the Texas Rangers have been in the series...that's pretty exciting.  Now if only San Fran could beat Philly!  HATE PHILLY!!! PHILLY SUCKS!!!  RRRRRRRRR  they make me so mad!  And this isn't because they beat us!  Truly...I've always hated Philly!  Anyway...GOOOOOO RANGERS!!!  (Sorry Aunt Kathleen...if you're a fan of the Giants and they make it to the series...I have to root for the Rangers...first time there not to mention Josh Hamilton!)

K - I've talked enough...but lets look at one sweet pup who apparently was VERY happy to see her Daddy yesterday after he had been out of town for two days...she didn't want to let him out of her sight but as you can see, tiredness was winning...or maybe contentedness was the culprit of her dozing off.  Sweet Zoe!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO A THRID FOOL!!!

Diane!!!  Sami said happy birthday too!  You are her second Mommy and she LOVES LOVES LOVES you!!!  (So do Zeke and Bubba but she never lets them talk so...)

Sucks that you have to work today (Why did you have to come in...I forget?) but at least you get to spend it with your friends.  Hey, maybe Lily will be a no show! 

Anyway, have a great day!!!  I love you!!!!

Here's a birthday dog picture for you - how pissed do you think this dog is?  Maybe it's licking its chops cause it just gobbled up the camera person!

Walked & Fed

Me...and the dogs.  I've taken Sami on her walk and the boys (your welcome Jim) and I just ate breakfast.  It was so nice this morning to sleep late on a school day...it always feels better than on the weekend...I don't know why.  My plans for today are to do some major quilting.  Specifically on my original one that still isn't finished.  I'm at the hard part and I just keep doing bits and pieces but it just seems to never end.  Other than that...I have no plans. 

Bubba news:  Jim took him in for his lumpectomy yesterday and they sent him back home.  The lump just wasn't large enough to isolate and operate.  UGH!  I knew that would happen.  Here's the weird thing though, the vet told Jim, upon leaving, to put Bubba back on the prednisone and pepcid (1 1/2, 2x per day) and that he wanted to see Bubba on Monday.  Me:  Why!?  I thought the whole point here was to get the lump to return enough so they could remove it...get rid of the cancer.  Jim:  Hm...I don't know.  Dumb fool didn't even ask why.  So now he has to call the vet to find out.  Why is that man such a 'tard?

So last night I had nightmares of my kids at school.  I kept dreaming that they were being sooooooo bad!!!  Just being totally unruly and I had lost total control of my classroom.  It was the worst dream I've ever had!  Ugh! I hate that they've crept into my dreams! 

Okay well, lets end this post with a sweet pup...some Halloween pups! (I've seen most of these before)

Poor guy having to walk around with a balloon shoved under its pribates!

It's a lion!!!

Duh..........which way did he go?

Hippie lab

This dog looks pissed!

And finally...a funny cartoon...careful what you chose for a costume.

Bubba Is So Pissed Right Now!!!

Why?  Because he isn't allowed to eat before his surgery.  Normally when I get up in the morning, I come downstairs to get my coffee with Sami in tow.  I open the sliding glass door, she sniffs the air, but doesn't go out and then runs to the fridge to get a carrot (yes, I'm a sucker).  So, after pouring my coffee I give Sami a carrot and take a 1/2 upstairs for Bubba.  He's always waiting for me either at the top of the stairs or in the bedroom in my path to the bathroom.  Well, today, he was laying in wait in my path and when walked by him (quickly as though nothing were amiss) I could hear him do a doggy "HUH!?"  He got up, chased me to the bathroom door and sort of whipped his head around huffing and puffing.  I bent over to scratch his ears and apologized but he just threw my hands away and nosed at them.  I know he was saying, "WHAT THE F%*K?"  I feel like a terrible mommy.

(By the way - doesn't he look pissed in this picture?)

So, in regard to Bubba...I am bit worried that when Jim takes him the vet, they're going to turn him away saying the can't see the lump to operate.  I feel like I can see the lump but it seems so faint now and you can really only see it when he lifts his head to look up.  Well, I guess it won't be such a bad thing if he doesn't have to have surgery but I just want this thing GONE!  Plus, I took tomorrow off.  Not that I care about that...with 108 days of sick leave (approximately) I could take every Thursday off and not really put a dent in my bank and I wouldn't feel guilty.  Anyway, I'm putting the cart before the horse...we'll just see what happens today and regardless - everyone say your  prayers for my big old baby Bubs!

Well, I best head out.  I have an IEP at 8:30 this morning and after my day with Diablo yesterday, I need some time to figure out what the hell I'm doing.  Later!  Oh, and today is Wear Purple To Remember Day - in support of anti-gay bullying.  Isn't it funny that I forgot about it and then looking at Facebook this morning, saw a reminder from a friend and I was already wearing purple anyway!?  Rockin'...k - later!

Waking Up

So, I have an OLD alarm clock.  I mean, it's not ancient but it's an old digital clock radio that decides - using whatever magnetic force - which radio station it's going to tune in to from one day to the next. Usually I can tune in to a station way down on the left side of the dial but when I tune it at night - checking to see that every thing is set to go for the 5AM hour - it's to people talking mildly and softly...so much so that I usually end up cranking up the volume in case I don't hear it to wake me up.  Mistake!  It's never a sure thing what is going to wake me up.  The other day it was to a couple of hillbillies singing and playing the spoons (not kidding).  On another morning, I woke up to, I swear, a Spanish speaking "Vincent Price" telling a ghost story (but I don't speak Spanish so for all I know he was telling a love story)...scared the shit out of me though.  This morning?  I woke up to some country bumpkin crooning about his "Pistol-Packing Mama...lay that pistol down."  (Oh boy...I just looked it up!  Guess who sings it?!  Bing Crosby!  Oh boy!)  I gotta get me a new alarm clock.

In BFC news:  The meeting on Friday - parent came with lawyer in tow (who can blame them?).  In the end, the parents demanded that the district hire an aide for JUST their child.  That will mean that for every student in wheelchair (there are 4 of them) there is an aide.  In fact, there are only 8 kids in BFCs class...at all times there will be 5 1/2 adults available.  Now, one of the aides is a nurse that is ONLY for one of the girls in a wheelchair...and one of the 8 students leaves for 2 periods per day to go out to classes with some of our kids because he's a rather "high" multi handicap student.  So really, 4 1/2 adults for 6 kids - 3 of whom are not in wheelchairs.  Unbelievable.  BFC is so inept.  I guess at the end of the meeting when the parents had left, our sped supervisor laid in to BFC and reamed her a new asshole.  She was pissed because BFC let it get this far without voicing that she needed help (Reality:  She can't handle the kids/job).  HH said at the end of the meeting that he didn't blame the parents and if it had been his kid, he would have demanded the district put in writing, their intention to hire an aide.  I'm just hoping that people are keeping track of this shit cause I'm telling you, we haven't seen the last issue in BFCs classroom.

Okay - well, I best head out...I need to get in my car so I can turn on some music and get this this stupid pistol-packing mama song out of my head!  UGH!  Later!

It Can't Get Much Better Than...

...National Chocolate Cupcake Day!!!  For shizz!!!  Must think about getting me some!  Oh wait, I just looked down at myself...not a good idea.

In other interesting news, I heard from Diane yesterday that BFC's meeting on Friday (regarding her allowing one of her students to suffer a broken collarbone under her watch) did not go well.  I would imagine the scoop will be forthcoming this morning.  Now, I certainly don't wish ill on anyone but again, karma is a bitch (nicknamed BFC!) Rubbing my hands together in anticipation!

Umm...trying to think of things to mention...not a lot going on.  Yesterday was restful and I got a lot of quilting done.  I've started a new one which should be cute...I'll be doing a basket weave with some of the jelly rolls I've bought (a jelly roll is made up of strips of fabric - 40 of them - that are typically 2.5" wide and 44" in length).  I'll have to pattern it out but it's gonna be cute cute cute!

K - I've got nothing else going on.  I have two IEPs this week and I won't be going in to school Thursday (caring for Bubs day).  Today will consist of Monday paperwork and trying not to pull my hair out.   K - later!

Another Birthday Fool!!!

Happy Birthday Trippy!!!  You are the best dad and brother and I hope you have a great day - you deserve it!  I'll call you later - although you probably won't read this so anyway - have a great day!

By the way - I love this picture - I think the directive was "Do your 'Muir' smile"...hee hee!

Happy Birthday FOOL!!!

It's Maggie's birthday!  Happy birthday Maggie!!!  I sure hope your day is not barfy!  That would suck!  Hopefully baby bean will take a break on his/her Mama and let you enjoy your day!  I love you and hope your day is superb!  Diablo said it best:  You got it goin' on!!!  (By the way...love this picture with my little homey, J Bird!)

National Grouch Day!

It's National Grouch Day!  Now I didn't wake up grouchy at all and hopefully I won't be made to get grouchy at work.  I do loves me a grouch though...Oscar the Grouch that is!

In other news, it's Boss's Day.  HA!!!  That's a joke.  Like I'm going to celebrate my boss who's an asshole.  I'll celebrate when he leaves! 

In Bubba news, I just looked at his head and it looks as though the lump has returned.  I'll have to have Jim call today.  I don't know what will happen but from what the doctor said on Wednesday - they'll want to see him ASAP to remove it.  Ugh!  Could be a long weekend.  I just hope he doesn't have to wear a cone. 

Okay - well, lets see...I can't think of anything else to talk about.  I better head out. Today is a complete and total video day.  I have two IEPs next week that I need to tweak.  Need a break from the crazies!  Later

Some Bubba News

Well, I took Bubs to the vet yesterday...he wasn't happy about it but he didn't scream.   They also didn't have to put him up on the table and poke and prod him so that was a plus too.  In addition - he got to see a golden retriever pup and a gray cat that didn't run from him so really - it was a pretty awesome experience for him, I think...NOT!  I think in Bubba's mind - anything in or around that building is shit!  He wasn't happy until he got home and drank out of his favorite water bowl.  Anyway, it looks like the prednisone totally shrank the lump so now we have to have him off the drug so that the lump can start to return.  The minute we see it, we have to call in and tell them to remove it ASAP!  From that point...I don't know.  I don't know how long that will take or anything.  It's a "wait and see" moment AGAIN!!!  Ugh!

No news on the school front regarding BFC.  She's still a bitch but again, no new news.

In Diablo news - he's had a couple bad days recently...not with me so much but for his afternoon teachers.  I think by the time 6th period comes, his meds have started to wear off and he starts to lose it a little.  He was about a half second away yesterday from hitting Diane.  He was all up in her business and yelling at her that she was a liar.  She was trying to take him to the office because he pushed another kid - Pinocchio (who normally deserves it but this time had done nothing) and a regular ed teacher had to come out to find if everything was alright.  Crazy.  I think from now on, these pull-out classes MUST be in the mornings.  These kids just can't function correctly in the afternoon when their meds wear off.  Another ugh!

Okay - I best head off to school.  We had a nice bit of rain last night and a thunderstorm so now it's nice and cool...so glad.  Talk a ch'all later!

Bring On The Cold Weather!!!

Because my fireplace is ready!!!  We had the chimney sweep in yesterday to clean our - duh - chimney.  They say it should be done every year (bullshit) and we've only had it done once since we've lived here.  Oops.  I consider it kind of like an oil change...they say every 3000 miles but in reality, it's 5000.  So every other year should be good. 

My husband is being mean!  He told me to stop sniffling.  I get sniffly in the morning and I'm a major throat clearer and it's worse in the AM.  He's not usually up with me at this time so he's not used to it.  I told him if he didn't like it he should just go back to bed.  RUDE!

Oh, so get this!  Yesterday we had a teacher's meeting after school.  The superintendent and treasurer dude were giving a presentation for the levy we have going on the ballots in November.  It's a renewal of an operating levy that DOESN'T raise taxes.  So they were talking about all the things that it will help pay for and all the costs we have.  One of the slides in the presentation was about technology.  The bitch, I mean head of technology who was presenting this slide explained how a computer in our district usually has a 15 year cycle...starting as a teacher computer then going to a lab then wherever and finally to a student and then the trashcan.  Well, isn't that interesting!  We've been waiting and waiting for computers to be installed in our classrooms (student computer) to jump start this program to prepare students getting ready for the Ohio Graduation Test.  The computers - we thought - were coming from a computer lab that they had shut down in the administration building in our district.  Computers, by the way, that were top of the line.  We find out about a week ago that they actually ordered NEW - brand new - computers for this.  Meanwhile - these other computers are just sitting around, I guess.  Hmm...where did that money come from?  Oh, and then they have the gall to ask the teachers in the district to donate $20 each for the campaign fund for renewing the levy because they need approximately $6000 and have run out.  Um...I don't think so.  I'm on a tight budget and am saving up for my own brand new computer.  Suck it!

How 'bout a puppy!?  We're on to "D"s now so, meet...

...the DACHSHUND!!!  Adult....

...Puppy!!!  (His name is Newman)

Holy shizz!!!

I could keep going...

...but I better head to work.  Later! Oh, and it's take your teddy to work day! 

Karma Is A Bitch!

Ain't that the truth!?  So, whose karma is rearing it's ugly head to bite an unsuspecting jackass in the ass?!  BFC (Big Fat Cow) at work.  It's been a long time coming and I've said all along that that bitch would send us into due process and it looks like she may have finally managed to do so.

Synopsis:  There have been several incidents where students - multi handicapped students...in wheelchairs...who can't communicate for themselves - have been harmed in BFC's classroom.  First, BFC let a girl fall and then she (all 300 pounds) fell on top of her.  Then, she leaves the girls in her classroom (non wheelchair) in the student bathrooms, on the toilet, unattended, with the bathroom door open for all to see.  She threatens to turn in students for truancy - kids who are medically fragile and in wheelchairs and who have the mentality of a 1 year old.  Well, the most recent incident caused a child to break his collarbone as a result of BFC's neglect.  Sitting right next to her, the child just "fell" right out of his wheelchair.  There's more to the story but I won't go into it.  The parents are calling a meeting regarding the care or lack thereof for their son.  And believe me, it's not that I hope these parents sue (well, I wish the could sue BFC and really make life hell).I just want the people in charge to know that the things happening in BFC's room are not above board.  She's a terrible teacher and person and should never gotten into the profession she's in.  She's so mean to those kids and I just hope she gets hers!  I'll keep you updated.

I've really got nothing else going on.  The chimney sweep comes today.  He's supposed to be here between 12-4.  Jim will most likely have to take a 1/2 day so he can be here.  I just wish the weather would turn so I could burn one now...a fire that is...not a doobie...hee hee.  Wednesday is the day I take Bubba back to the vet.  Nervous.  His lump is definitely smaller...maybe it disappeared altogether?! 

K - I best head out...I had a parent call at 10PM last night to tell me her daughter (who I never work with and never wants services) needs help with her English test.  Of course she's only asking for help when it's test time...it didn't cross her mind to ask for help when she was studying the Anglo-Saxon/Beowulf material.  Love it.  I'm sure she's hoping I'll just give her all the answers.  HA!  Later!

Yeah! It's National Kick Butt Day Again!

Too bad the Reds and Bengals didn't play their games today!  Oh well.  In regard to the Bengals?  Joke!  Ridiculous!  Carson Palmer:  Done with you!  Stupid rookie mistakes time and again.  Reds?  Love you!  All the haters out there who say, "So glad I didn't spend money on a ticket" and other shitty fan comments like that:  I'm sure you're also the ones who only jumped on the bandwagon when it looked like the Reds may clinch the Central division.  No one figured the Reds would get as far as they did and I think anyone out there would be proud - as I'm sure the players are - of the strides they made.  They weren't the best team in baseball this year but they were still GREAT and next year will be even better. 

So, now that I've gotten off my soapbox...it's Monday.  I'm way tired.  I managed to get to bed at around 9 - even with Mom and Richard here but I just didn't sleep well.  I kept thinking/dreaming about doorbells - thinking someone was ringing ours.  I kept waking up thinking the dogs were going to start barking their heads off.  Speaking of which:  ZEKE!!!???  Shut up!!!  No barking at 5:30 in the morning!  Bad dog!

Had a delicious dinner last night...mom's eggplant Parmesan was mmm mmm good!  Lots of good conversation and yes, a couple glasses of wine.  We were trying to think back and I don't believe Richard has been here - seriously - since Trip and Susan got married. 

So, how about a sweet puppy to start our Kick Butt Monday off with?  Our last pup was the Chihuahua so today - we'll feature Jim's fave: 

The Corgi!  How cute is that pup?!  Jim would love to get a Corgi and I must say - I wouldn't be against that idea! 

And holy shizzzz...could the sweet puppy be any cuter?  His name is Teddy.  Isn't that appropriate?!

I mean really!  Look at those sweet ears!!!  I'm in love!

K - well, I best head out to work.  It's a Monday and as usual I'm not exactly sure what the hell I'm doing today.  Pray for a good week.  K - later!

10/10/10

Groovy!  Even more groovy, my Aunt Kathleen - I believe - is celebrating her 10th anniversary on 10/10/10!  That's pretty cool!

In addition - today is National Cake Decorating Day!  Yum!!!  Would loves to makes me a cake and decorate it but alas, my jiggly bits are just too damn jiggly!

So, yesterday - I got to spend most of the day with my sweet J Bird!  After a massive clean of the house, I went over around 2 and played and played and played (Jim stayed home to clean his "dressing" room which is also the guest room). Well, J.J. did most of the playing but I had a few balls beam me in the head and I got to pull him around in the wagon whenever he beckoned me to do so!  I also got to pitch the ball to him but the best was when he was pitching to Susan.  First of all, when he pitches, he kicks his leg up just like a pitcher would.  Then, when he's done, he turns to his audience (Maggie, me, Nana and G-Pap) and says, "Clap for me!"  Too cute!  Also, that kid has increased his vocab 10 fold!  He repeats EVERYTHING!  Even when Maggie asked Susan what we were having for dinner, he repeated everything - verbatim...it was funny.  And when he says Okay, he says it like Buckwheat:  OTAY!  Mmm...mmm...mmm...loves me my J Bird!

Today - Mom and Richard are coming to stay here.  Mom said they'd be over around noon.  Before that, I'll walk Sami and chill.  I should probably figure something out for lunch...I didn't think of that.  Oops.  Maybe I'll just make a chicken salad or something.  We've got plenty of chips, crackers and so on...and leftovers...not too worried about it.  Mom made an eggplant Parmesan that she brought with her so we'll have that for dinner with a salad and bread.  Yum.  Can't wait to chill and watch the game.  WHO DEY!

Bubba update:  Doing well.  His lumpy head seems a bit less lumpy which means the prednisone is doing its job.  He's eating up a storm and drinking like he's storing water for winter...all effects of the steroid...ugh.  Jim and I have been hugging and loving on him lots and I'm sure he's sitting there thinking - "God!  Leave me the heck alone and let me sleep!" 

K - I'm going to go get a move on...walk Sami and get Mom and Richard's room together - sheets on the bed.  Later.

Poor Diablo!

So, I'm reading a book called Walk Two Moons to my low level Language Arts class.  It's about a 13 year old girl, dealing with the her mother leaving and living in a new place. She is on a trip to Idaho to see her mother and along the way, the reader hears the events that led up to her mother's abandonment.  Well, one of the things that happened was the mother, Sugar, delivered (3 weeks from her due date) a stillborn child.  I read this part aloud to the kids yesterday.  As I was reading and near the end of the chapter, I noticed that Diablo was sniffing rather loudly and would ask, "Is it DEAD!?"  Finally the chapter ended and Diablo said again, "IS IT DEAD!!!???  DID THE BABY DIE!!!???"  And as gently as I could I said, "Well, yes, Diablo.  She did."  Well, the tears started rolling then and he said, "I'M SO MAD AT THAT STUPID BABY FOR DYING!!!  IT'S SO SAD!!!"  Poor little thing.  I'm really not looking forward now to the end of the book when we find out that the mother is in fact dead as well.  Oh boy!

In other news, I'm happy as hell that it's Friday!  This was actually a good week (knock on wood...it's not over yet!) but of course by the end I'm tired.  I definitely don't feel like cooking tonight...I'll have to find out from Jimmy where he wants to eat tonight. 

Mom and Richard are coming to town this weekend as are Maggie and Charlie.  Mom and Richard are staying with Trip and Susan tonight, Anne on Saturday and Jim and me on Sunday.  Yippee!!!  Maggie and Charlie are coming down and I'll get to see them tomorrow.  Trip and Charlie are going to the UK game - they play Auburn (which is Charlie's alma mater - WAR EAGLE!!!) so I really won't get to see them much but that's okay cause Maggie, Susan and most important - J Bird will hang!  Can't wait to see that boy!  Miss him!

Reds play this evening!  Go Reds!  Whatever happens, I'm proud to be a Cincinnati Reds fan, that's for sure! 

K - I'd better head out.  It's movie day in LA and History...finishing up Indian Jones (#3) and the final episode in Frontier House.  Later!

My Husband Is A Fool!

I asked Jim what he wanted for dinner tonight and he said, "Um...HOT DOGS!!!!  And...MAC AND CHEESE!!!  And...BRUSSEL SPROUTS!!!"  He's so weird.  I was on board with the hot dogs and mac-n-cheese and I do love brussel sprouts but with hot dogs?!  I'll have to think about that one. 

By the way, I hope I didn't just make you blow chunks Maggie!

So, I started sweet Bubba on his prednisone last night.  It seemed like immediately, he was trying to eat me out of house and home.  I finally had to put the food bowls up.  That boy sure is an eatin' fool!

Funny comments from students:
The other day Diablo asked to go to the bathroom.  Kim escorted him there and I waited, and waited and waited for him to rejoin us.  Finally, getting no response to yelling, "DIABLO!  Hurry up!" through the bathroom door in our room, I poked my head out in the hallway.  Kim was there and said he must not be feeling well because he had flushed a couple times and wasn't answering her "hurry ups".  Finally he came out.  I said, "Hurry up!  We're waiting for you!"  And Diablo responds while walking in the hallway with other classroom doors wiiiiiide open, "I DON'T FEEL GOOD!!!  I went #2 TWICE!!!"  Oh boy.  He really was pale and asked to go to the nurse.  Apparently he threw up while there so had to go home.  The nurse walked him down to our room to get his stuff and when he came in he didn't have any shoes on.  Pinocchio noticed and said, "Diablo!  Where are your shoes?!"  Diablo, "I threw up all over them!"  Poor Diablo.

In addition to all that, yesterday when Diablo was in history class with me, he got angry because I asked him to put some stuff away.  He yelled that he was going to have me arrested and sent to JDC (Juvy). 

Something funny I said:  In history class, I was talking about presidents and the 1884 election.  I said to the kids, "Finally, in 1884 Grover Cleveland was erected president."  Oops!  No one except Kim even noticed.  Fools!

K - best mosey...gotta go love on my babies before I leave.  See ya!

On A Lighter Note!

First of all, it's Mad Hatter Day!  Nearly a 1/2 year past April Fools, this day is meant to "celebrate" the nonsense we usually have to pretend is sane...it can be called madness for one day in the year; the superficially crazy things that really make sense can be called sane on MadHatterDay.  Hm.

Second - I thought in celebration of Bubba we would do something a little special for our Doggy alphabet.  Our featured dogs are those pups that make up the specialness that is Bubba!

The Basset (I know - recently featured) +

the Springer Spaniel

= BUBBA!!!

That boy really just loves to eat...this is his favorite

thing in the world - when we fill the dog bucket...it's like he's in heaven!

Mmm...love him!

K - must mosey...gotta hit the road and get to school.  Later!

 

Bubba Results

Not good news:  Cancer.  I'm so sad.  However, things aren't totally hopeless.  It's kind of a "try this and see" type thing. 

The vet talked a lot of gobblygook but essentially, here's the deal.  The cancer/tumor is a mast cell tumor. It swells and get bigger and smaller because when "massaged" it releases histamines causing swelling.  Because the tumor is so large, it is currently inoperable.  We are thus going to administer Bubba a pretty aggressive dose of prednisone (and pepsid to protect his stomach).  This will hopefully reduce the size of the tumor so that they can remove it and then biopsy it.  At that point, we have 3 possibilities:

• Grade 1 – benign behavior – excellent cure rate with surgery
• Grade 2 – moderately malignant behavior – recurrence rate is about 20% with aggressive surgery
• Grade 3 – very malignant tumor – only 10% of these patients are alive at 1 year – most of these have spread of tumor

The biggest thing we need to find out right now is 1) are there other tumors.  I haven't found any and I have my hands all over that boy on a daily-weekly basis.  I know that sounds weird but with his allergies, I'm constantly checking his skin, ears, eyes, and armpits! I know if there are weird growths. 2) We need to find out if the cancer has spread to his organs. If it has - well, Bubba is 12 years old (approximately) so when we find out results from the biopsy - we'll go from there. 

Some bad news:  Bubba's tumor is pretty large and they say that large tumors (over 4 cm) have a poor prognosis.  However, Bubba is a pretty special dog and I'm sure the fight in him to stay with us for as long as possible will keep him fighting, fighting, fighting.  I have to think that the fact that he has NO symptoms is a good sign.  I'm just going to keep an eye on him, and love, love, love him lots, lots lots as much as possible!  Keep my sweet, fat baby in your prayers!

Baby Bean Egbert!

7 weeks and a strong heartbeat!!! 

I'm allowed to post this because the only people that read this have already received an email from Maggie about the pictured bean!  See at the bottom, the heartbeat!  So excited!!!  Maggie was a complete and total wreck yesterday...I know what she was going through and I'm SOOOOOOOO happy that she got to see this and hear the heartbeat! 

In other exciting news, it's World Teachers Day!  I'm sure I'll get lots of gifts from my students!  They love me so!  Big bunch of fools! 

K - I'm running late and must mosey to finish the IEP that I have at 7:30...later! 

Ten-Four Good Buddy!

Anne should like this holiday!  (Skyline?  Drive-thru? Total sale?  NOT 10.40?)  Roger that? 

So, I'm certainly not a fair-weathered fan...I love the Bengals and I want them to do well and T.O. was super yesterday but...what the hell Carson Palmer?!  You suck!  Arg.  Actually, I'm sure in retrospect, it wasn't Palmer's fault and there is no "I" in team but I gotta blame someone.  Stupid Browns!  Lets blame them!

Pictures are finally working again on this stupid blogger so lets get on with it...

...Okay - and here's our latest pup in the "Three Dogs Mommy" doggy alphabet! Introducing - for Diablo - the...

...Chihuahua!!! Diablo is obsessed with the Chihuahua! He lies everyday that he has a Chihuahua named Peanut. Love Diablo...missed him Friday. EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE

...and a sweet Chihuahua puppy!

So, this week at school - I only have one IEP (tomorrow) that I'm not ready for.  I won't have to be out of the building at all and after this week - as of right now - I don't have any IEPs until the week of the 18th.  YEAH!!! 

In other news - I have no other news.  It's cold here.  Um...I'm wearing a sweater today...first time this school year (not a cardigan).  Uh...that's about it.  Best get to school...I need to finish that IEP and get my "Monday" work done.  Later!

Say Your Prayers

Bubba needs them.  Jim and I took Bubs to the vet yesterday to get his lump checked out. Explanation for those unaware:  For the last few months, Bubba has had this lump on the top of his head.  At first, it would come and go, especially when he would sleep in the shower down off the garage.  The space is too small for him and he gets all scrunched up in there and his head rests against the edge and this lump would rise up...just like the lumps Tom would get on Tom and Jerry.  Eventually it would go down and disappear (after about an hour).  We tried to get the doctor to check it out the last time Bubba got his cortisone shot (May) but at the time, the lump wasn't lumpy.

Well, for the last few weeks to a month, the lump has been constant...never going away completely.  It will get big and small but it never truly disappears.  I also felt it the other day and it felt fluid-filled. So, we took sweet Bubs to the vet.  At first I wasn't going to go because I can't stand the screaming (Bubba acts as though he's being tortured by the vet or vet assistant and makes the most amazing racket) but Jim begged me and who can say no to a begging Jim?  (I can but he wore me down) Anyway, the vet looked at it and said, "That's weird" - never a good comment coming from the doctor.  He gave a couple possibilities for what it may be (hematomawhatever; pemphigus whojamawhatsit)...possibly something similar to a blister.  He wanted to aspirate it though to see what came out and then check it out under a slide.  Poor Bubba got a needle right in the top his poor lumpy head.  He didn't scream though...just whined.  The fluid was clear (not good...not a boil-like mass; not pus-filled indicating a simple infection) and upon looking at it under the slide, Dr. Wolf said he needed the specialist guy to look at it because it looked "suspicious".  I asked what that meant - cancer? - but Dr. Wolf said he didn't want to go there...yet.  UGH!  The specialist guy comes in on
Tuesday so we'll have to wait until mid-day Tuesday to find out.  Poor sweet Bubs!

And by the way - I would have posted a sweet photo of my sweet Bub alongside this but alas - stupid blogger is being all stupid!!!  I'm getting so PO-ed!!!  UGH!!!

Okay so today - along with cuddling on Bubba, I'll be walking Sami, grocery shopping and cleaning house - hopefully all before the Bengals game.  Can't believe it's already week 4!  I didn't get to my usual stuff yesterday because we went to the Reds game...which was fun fun fun!  It was as I thought - not packed (though there were a good number of people there) and though it did start raining around the 5 inning, we were in a spot under cover and didn't get wet.  Jay Bruce hit two homers and the Reds pulled it out for a 7-4 win!  Homer Bailey had a record number of strikeouts - 10, too!!!

K - I'm freezing my arse off and need to get started on my "jobs".  Jim's bike riding so I gotta head.  Later!

Don't Get Your Panites In A Wad...

...Mom!  'Cause I know I'm about to get bitched at for not posting.  Sorry...I have no one to blame but...Kristyn.  It's her fault!

So, YEAH!!!  It's Saturday!!!  And F&%K!!!  The damn Reds lost last night!  So pissed!  The needed to win these last four games and those damn Brewers always F us!  Hopefully, Jim and I will give them some luck today although at this point, it doesn't matter because they've blown their home field advantage in their best-of-five NL division series.  Oh well...they'll pull it out regardless!  Must have faith in the boys!

So, yes, Jim and I are going to the game today.  I bought the $5 tickets with the thought that not many will be there for a Saturday day game that will possibly be chilly and rainy.  I don't care about the chill and rain - it's only a 30% chance...and we can always, hopefully, move down and be under cover.  It'll be nice to get out of the house and chill with Jim...have a dog and a beer at the game.  We thought about going tomorrow for the last game of the regular season but the Bengals play the Browns and I want to watch that. 

K - so, here are a few recent and stupid things that my students have said (proving yet again, how ineffective I am as a teacher, I guess):
Me:  Who can tell me what states in the United States we were talking about when we studied about America settling the western frontier?
Dumb ass answer:  CANADA!!!

After explaining that I was talking about the states...the actual states!!!  and that Canada wasn't a part of our country but in fact another country, I asked:
Me: What WESTERN states were talking about in settling the WESTERN frontier?
Same dumb ass answering:  CAROLINA!!! 

WHAT THE F!!!!????

Well, now I'm pissed!!!  I tried to do my doggy alphabet but stupid Blogger won't load pictures! Pissed! 

K - I need to head out.  Jim is taking Bubba to the vet...I refuse to go because Bubba literally screams!  We're getting his lumpy head checked out.  It's just getting lumpier and lumpier.  Later