Overslept - No Time!

I haven't overslept in...years!  Nay - DECADES!  Well, now I'm just being dramatic...okay - it's only been a few years but then - I messed up my alarm setting.  Today? My alarm went off...I just slept through it!  Which is so weird because I ALWAYS hear when it just softly clicks on...when the music is even too low to hear?  I hear the switch from off to on!  WTF?  I woke up to Jim gently shaking me.  I bolted up and said, "WHAT'S GOING ON!?  WHAT HAPPENED?!"   And of course I'm sure this happened because I woke up at 2AM last night and then laid there for about an hour and a half.  Hate that!

In reality I only overslept by 9 minutes but you know for me?  That sets my whole routine OFF!!!  UGH!!!  Not really - again, I'm being dramatic but I am running a little behind and don't have as much time to post as I would have.  And you know I had SOOOOOOO much to post about...NOT! 

I had Chipotle last night. That's exciting!  I made spaghetti but ended up just saving that for Jim's lunch/dinner since he'll be working late a lot this week.  But then Jim called and said he was going to come home rather early (earlier than he had thought) and I had a CRAVING!!!  It was delicious.

Other than that - I've got nothing.  Watched The Killing last night...GOOD!  Jim and I think we have it figured out. 

K - well, like I said, I running a bit behind and must mosey...later!

Why Is My Husband Bothering Me?!

I love him...I do but why does he insist on TALKING to me in the morning while I'm trying to do my thing before work!?  I'm sort of kidding - of course I don't mind that he talks to me but the topic is one I just don't want to have an in depth conversation about.  What am I talking about?  Well, apparently Japan got hit AGAIN with another earthquake today.  I mentioned that to Jim (so really this is all my fault).  Then he starts talking about some car color dying company in Japan that's been out of commission since the original earthquake.  Due to this, and it being the only car tinting place, car companies can only make black and white cars.  This is not morning conversation that stimulates me and gets me ready for the first day back after spring break.  Additionally - it's taking time out of my blogging and when this post sucks!?  You can be pissed at Jimmy Lou too!

So I'm in a world of pain.  Not only did I get a fairly severe case of farmer's tan on my back but every muscle in my body is screaming.  In other words, yes, Jim allowed me to help him yesterday.  We started around noon and finished around 4 yesterday.  We managed to remove the large pile of dirt from the middle of the yard, level it out, till all surrounding areas in preparation for seed.  We then seeded, fertilized and finally laid hay or straw or whatever the eff that was.  Sami is mildly perplexed as to why her backyard now smells like horses.  She's obsessed with smelling out there and I don't think she likes walking in the straw.  Bubba loves it.  First - it keeps his paws from getting wet and second, it's like a whole new yard to pee and poop in.  He's a devil!  Zeke's just happy to be rolling in the freshly mowed lawn...he doesn't really care or seem to notice the hay.  The moral of the story is:  Ladies - if I'm a moanin' and groanin' at work today...please forgive me...I'm outta shape and worked my arse off yesterday.

Okay - so that's it.  I have about - I don't know - 6 or 7 or 8 weeks left until summer.  YAY!!!  I have a few IEPs before then which sucks and several seniors graduating so that's more paperwork that I won't feel like doing.  Other than that - nothing.  K - I'm out...oh, and here's a little useless info for your Monday:

Did You Know?
The original Manhattan cocktail was garnished with a drop of blood.  That's disgusting!  Jim's mom was a Manhattan drinker.  Not that that means anything but I just thought I'd throw that in there.  Also, you may find this interesting:  President Grover Cleveland was rumored to have had a foot fetish.  Well, we all have something, huh?  K - later!

April 10th...85°!!!???

I don't know about this 85° temp that's being called for today.  That's REALLY close to 90° and that's too hot for APRIL 10th!  However!!!  Don't get me wrong...I'm going to be loving the hot weather today especially since there is a LOT of yard work to be done at the Hanke household.  In fact, Jim is out right now buying seed, fertilizer and hay.  The main job today will be tilling (?) up the dirt just off the deck steps, seeding and laying hay.  Beyond that - Jim will be doing his best to level out the backyard and then seeding anything else that needs it.  The grass really needs to be cut at this point but with the rain we had yesterday - it's too soggy and it isn't really feasible. 

My plans?  Well, I'll help Jim if he wants it.  I don't know that he'll let me though...he gets really bossy when working in the yard and I don't want a fight so I may just let him do his thing without interfering.  However, I could just use the garden claw to turn the earth (with my handy dandy gadget shown on left).  If Jim lets me although how I could eff that up, who knows but according to him, he's the only one who can do anything right.  Although why he would think that makes no sense since I'm CONSTANTLY telling him that he's wrong! See!?  He never listens.  Anyway - other than that I'll finish trimming the squares for my quilt in preparation for sewing it all together and then hang on the deck with the pups...read my book.

I've got all my laundry done and just need to ready things for work this week...PFFT!!!  Hate work.  I've walked Sami already - a nice breezy two-miler...she's happy and tired.  Breakfast is done, dishes are done, dinner is planned, house is cleaned...I'm all set.

So, I guess I'm out...talk at you all later.

Loves Me Some Similes!

It's been a while since I've done a post on funny sayings/words/phrases.  When I was looking for a simile for Bubba's nerves, I came upon a website dedicated to funny similes and I thought, "Hey!  That's some funny shit!"  So here are some funny similes (funny to me at least).  I DARE you to use them in your everyday vernacular!

As near as dammit - What the hell does that mean?  I've never heard that before but you can be sure I'm going to be using it! 

As queer as a chocolate orange - Now, I've heard "As queer as a 3 dollar bill" but a chocolate orange?  That is queer!

As boring as a wet weekend in Wigan  - Where the heck is Wigan?  And if this is such a common phrase (so much that it made this website) why haven't I heard it?

As difficult as nailing jelly to a tree - Now that would be difficult but I don't know why you'd try to nail jelly to a tree

As happy as a pig in shit - An oldie and a goodie!

As pure as the driven slush - Sooooooo...I'm guessing that someone as pure as the driven slush is a ho?  Kind of like Maggie...and Diane!?  HEHEHEHEHE!

As small as the hairs on a gnat's bollock - Definitely an English site.  I mean I know of no gnat's in America that have bollocks!

As sure as eggs is eggs - These British f&%ers are weird...it's no wonder we wanted to get away from them!

As useless as a chocolate teapot - Now, in my opinion?  A chocolate teapot is NOT!!!! Useless! How can anything chocolate be useless!?  Stupid British!

Doped Up Dog!

I guess I should post something since I'm here at home on Spring Break but truly I don't have anything to post about.  Things at the homestead have been calm and relaxing with nothing exciting going on.  Probably a good thing because whenever something comes up to post about, it's something negative like a broken car, fence or dog.  I should count my lucky stars that my life is at a low excitement level. 

What have I been doing on my break since getting home from Columbus?  Well, yesterday was a venture at the vet with Bubba.  Don't worry just a check up.  I tranqed him up prior to going and it did seem to help but he was still nervous as a...whore in church.  When we got into the exam room, he kept weaving in, around, and under the chairs.  Panting, whining, freaking out...poor guy.  Luckily, he only had to get two shots which didn't bother him.  What really gets him and makes him lose his marbles is having blood drawn (didn't have to do that since they did it at surgery) and getting probed in the biscuits.  Since I brought a poop sample, however, this wasn't needed.  All in all, he had a pretty uneventful visit.  His ears are starting to get yucky again so the doc put him on a histamine, gave him a steroid shot and also gave a prescription of prednisone to be used on an "as needed" basis. 

Bubba and I were home by 10 AM and after taking Sami on a two-mile walk, I brought all my sewing stuff downstairs and proceeded to sew pieces for my quilt together.  Out of the 90 squares that I'm piecing together, (7 different colors/patterns) I got about 60 done. 

Funny and sad, after being home for a couple hours after the vet, I looked over at Bubba and couldn't see his eyeballs.  He was as doped as doped can be.  His third eyelid had moved up over his poor little eyes and he stumbled around like a drunk.  I took him out front on his leash (didn't want him going down then up the deck steps in that condition) and he just sort of fell over in the front yard.  Poor guy.  He's back to normal now, thank God.  I think next time when he has to go to the vet (supposed to be every 6 months now to keep an eye on his lumps) instead of giving him a tranq an hour before the visit, I'll give it to him about 3 hours before.  By then, he'll be completely sedate and complacent!

So, today - like I said, I'll be sewing and hanging out.  I need to walk the pups but I'm waiting for the weather to clear a little...and warm up.  Tonight I have a Tastefully Simple party to go to at my neighbors...not sure that I'm too excited about that but whatever...I have good neighbors so it will be fun...I hope. 

And that's it.  It's Friday and the last real day off of Spring Break. Now comes the final "push" at school.  In good news - House Bill 36 (giving Ohio back their 5 snow days...effective this year) is finally on the governor's desk.  He's expected to sign and then we at school will only have 2 days to make up...rather than 4.  They have the ability to extend the school day by an hour to make up the two days but I don't know that we'll do this.  In my estimation, if we extended the day by an hour for two weeks, we would have the two days made up.  Seems like an easy solution but who knows with busing and all that.  Regardless, I'm not complaining.  Would it be nice to be out by June 3?  Yes.  However, even if my last day ended up to be June 9th?  I still have the rest of the summer off.  What do I have to complain about?
K - I'm out...later!

Shout Out For A Birthday Girl!

I just wanted to say - Happy Birthday to Becky!  Hope you have a great day!  I'll see you weekend after next!

Jane Eyre

I was going to go home early today but Maggie guilted me into staying longer so that we can go see Jane Eyre.  I guess since I'm on Spring Break, I've got nothing better to do so who cares, right?  We'll go see the 11:15 showing and then I'll be on the road by around 2:00...home by 4:00.  Jim is not going to be home for dinner either so I won't have to "worry" about getting a meal on the table.

So what has Maggie been making me do while here?  Besides rubbing her smelly feet?  (She just yelled at me and told me I'm rude...par for the course lately.)  Anyway - on Monday when I got here we hung out and switched Charlie's closet from Eva's room into "my" room.  No big deal.  We also put her bouncy together and put sweet baby clothes away.  Charlie was sick sick sick on Monday so the dinner we had planned was pushed to Tuesday and we just had chicken, rice and broccoli.  Maggie and I watched Mildred Pierce (HBO).  Maggie thought that it was just two episodes but apparently its much more than that because after watching the first 3, we aren't anywhere near the end.  Evan Rachel Wood hasn't even made an appearance yet.  WTF!?  I don't have HBO!!!  Now I can't watch the rest of it.  Just another reason why Maggie is in troubles!

Tuesday - Maggie ran my ass ragged and yelled at me!  When that pregnant lady gets hungry?  WATCH OUT!  Hee hee.  First we went to Kohl's where Maggie got some nightgowns for the hospital and lounging immediately after baby is born.  Charlie didn't think our choices were very sexy but FOR CHRIST SAKE!!!   There will be no sexy talk for 6 weeks after Eva is born so we were just protecting his sensibilities!  He's RUDE!!!  After Kohl's we went to Babies R Us for stuff.  Then Michel's where we got cute letters to put on Eva's wall (I wanted to get "MUIR" but Maggie wasn't for that!  Instead we got the letters to spell out PUNJAB!  Just kidding...we got EVA).  Michel's is where "the incident" happened.  We were discussing the letters and Maggie turned around and smacked me with her biting tongue!  I think the devil took over for a minute or two but I survived and knew that I needed to get that lady some LUNCH!  After Michel's I braved Carter's since we were right next door and Maggie got sweet baby Eva her babysuit for the summer!  How cute is that!?!?!?!?

After shopping we went to J. Alexander's - delicious - and then home.  For dinner we had the Pioneer Woman's Beef with Sugar Snap Peas (YUM) and then went to Orange Leaf for some yummy dessert - yogurt. 

That's about it.  Like I said - I'll leave today around 2 and get home around 4.  Tomorrow I have to take Bubba to the vet - not looking forward to that.  I sure hope his sedatives work well.  K - I'm out...later!

Spring Break Injury

My finger is throbbing.  Ugh!  Why, you ask!?  Well, yesterday - my fabric came for my new quilt.  I was very excited to get going on cutting out my pieces so after I had shopped, cleaned and walked my baby Sam, I set to work.  So I'm moving along...cutting pieces for my quilt...when SLICE!!!  I ran right over my left index finger with my rotary blade.  And understand, the blade is sharp, sharp, sharp...like a box-cutter.  Thankfully it was a really clean cut and I managed to stop the bleeding but it probably should have had stitches.  Every time I took the band-aid off last night, it would leak a little blood but it's okay now, I think and for the most part the edges of the cut sealed up pretty quickly.  I need to be more careful.

Plans for the day:  Not sure.  I'll make breakfast here in a bit (Jim just wants bacon, eggs and a toasted bagel).  Afterwards, I'll probably hang for a bit and then maybe help Jim work out in the backyard or I may just do a little quilting.  I actually might be ready to start the machine sewing...piecing my blocks together!  I do need to finish up laundry and pack for Maggie's but that won't take but a couple minutes.  Can't let Zeke see me doing that either...he'll get all nervous and panty...start drooling...a mess.

Other than that - I've got nothing.  Guess I'll go cook...later!

A New Scoot!

Well, it was bound to happen & Jim and I waited too long to purchase but we are now the proud owners of an Elantra Touring.  She's white - not a color I would have normally chosen but there were only three on the lot.  One was a "Limited" which was out of our price range; one was manual with NOTHING added on and then there was the white one.  I actually don't mind the white and hey, take what you can get, right?  I feel like the picture is a little sportier than it really is but maybe I'm wrong. 

Anyway - here's the story:  After school I raced down to Superior Hyundai (off Mitchell).  Jim and I were meeting there at 3PM.  (BTW - Trip had called me earlier in the day and told me to go there as the dealer, Larry, has historically beaten any other Hyundai deal around).  Jim had called ahead so Larry knew what we were looking for.  We got in the car - Jim actually fit in it - test drove it (Jim is the suckiest driver by the way!) and then came back to "haggle".  In the end, we got the car for over $2000 off sticker price.  That's good.  My credit score is excellent so we got an okay APR; we didn't put much money down and had no trade in though so I ended up above what I wanted to pay monthly.  What are you going to do though, right?

One sucky/good (?) thing was it was the last day of the month so a good day deal-wise to buy but I (Jim left at around 6 to take care of the dogs etc.) was there until 7...lots of people buying and I had to wait for the finance guy.  However - BONUS!!! - I got to drive the car home.  She actually drives very nicely...easy to speed.  I tested out the cruise control and managed to get it on the highway at full speed.  In addition - 3 months free XM Radio!  I want to drive it now until it expires but - alas - I'll give Jim this one. 

So now the stress is sort of off me...I'll be fiddling around with my budget and cutting some things out.  Hopefully I won't end up with a $20,000 pay cut here in a couple months with SB 5 either...cross your fingers.

In other exciting news:  Today is the last day before Spring Break.  Kids will be nuts and that's why I'll be showing movies in all my classes.  Babe, We Are Marshall and Goblet of Fire.  Good day!

K - I'm out...later!

It's Getting Hard To Stay Positive!

I mean, could my days get any worse?  (Okay, yes, I know they could and I shouldn't tempt fate. I could be in Japan or Libya or homeless but for just a minute - or ten - I'm going to rant, rave, whine and pity myself!) 

First of all - SB 5 passed yesterday and is now awaiting the governor's signature.  Should be done by the end of the week.  So that's one CHECK! in the "Sucks" column.

Second - I get a call from Jim yesterday saying, "We need to talk."  After my stomach rose back to where it normally lies, I'm able to listen long enough to hear that - SURPRISE!!!  Jim's truck has done it again.  Broken.  Not sure what but a possible busted timing chain.  Cost:  Approximately $1000.  We got a call later from the place it was towed to that the motor had "seized" and that it needs a new motor.  Cost:  Approximately $2500.  Me:  Done!  I had done so well in NOT freaking out about all this but that was the straw.  After talking to Maggie - not sure if she understood a word out of my mouth besides "boo" and "hoo" - I set a plan in motion.

The unfortunate thing here (aside from being broke with an unfixable car) is that we have about 2 or 3 days to get this taken care of.  Jim borrowed a friend's van but he'll need that back ASAP; I'm heading north her in a couple days; and Jim can't do without a car for work.  Another unfortunate thing here is that tonight is the senior community service night.  I'm required to be at work from 4:30 until 8:00.  I'm part of a panel (as is every teacher) that grades/judges/watches a group of seniors present.  I have to get this car situation taken care of and I do feel bad about not being at school tonight but I can't let this car thing fester. And I think that ensuring Jim has a job/car is more important.  (Sorry to not be there to have dinner with you tonight Lisa!  That's really the only reason I feel like a complete asshole!)

So, directly after school, I'm heading first to Hyundai to see if they can offer me some sort of deal on an Elantra Touring.  It's a wagon-like car and it's pretty small but it's the most I can afford right now which is somewhat "sizable"...enough for Jim to haul shit in for work.  From there - we'll see.  I, of course, didn't sleep last night and got up around 1AM to check out other deals.  There are some deals right now at Ford but it's highly unlikely that I'd be able to afford an Escape and I think the Focus would be too small for Jim's needs.  Once Jim gets home today - we'll head out together to do some test driving. 

I know that Jim and I should have taken care of this car situation long ago but, well, we're just stupid I guess.  I just hope that this SB5 never goes into effect.  Hopefully it will get on the ballots in November and the voters can decide (not to pass it) and the legislators can refocus their attentions to fixing the real problem - which isn't unions. Otherwise, the pay cut I'll be taking will leave me without any cars!  Ugh!

Okay - I'm sorry I've ranted and whined for so long.  Mom - I'm sorry I didn't call you last night to say BON VOYAGE and have a safe trip!  I'll update the car situation as it happens.  Later!

Pencil Day!

Oh boy...Diablo would be so excited to know that it's Pencil Day!  Well, only if it were MECHANICAL Pencil Day.  He's obsessed with mechanical pencils.  Originally - he had a boat load of pencils in his binder or book bag but he must have run out because he borrows one of mine every day.  And it has to be the green one...not the gray one.  He always returns it by the end of the day too so that's good considering he's a thief.  The other day he told another kid she sucked so I told him for that class period he wasn't aloud to use my mechanical pencil...he had to use a wooden one (I'm so mean).  He was PISSED!!!  He even took himself into the corner to pout for a minute but then realized that I hadn't said he couldn't use a pen!  When the bell rang, however, he tossed that pen aside quicker than you can say "Rumpelstiltskin" and grabbed my mechanical again.  He's crazy. 

In other news - um...I got nothing.  Three days left of school until spring break!  YEAH!!!  My plans for my week off?  I'm going to Maggie's on Monday; back on Wednesday; Bubba to the vet for yearly checkup Thursday (properly sedated) and other than that - I'll be hanging at home, working on my quilt.  My material hasn't come yet (that I ordered from Jo-Ann) but I'm sure it will be here soon.  I'm glad my break wasn't this week like most schools around me cause it's cold as shit!  Next week should be warmer! 

Okay, well, that's all I've got.  How about a puppy for the road?  It's been awhile!

This is Kate - the miniature Dachshund! 

Mom, I think something like this would be perfect!!!  And how cute is she with her monkey!!!??? 

K - better finish getting ready.  Oh, and it's Fountain Day (they'll be turning the fountain on at Fountain Square)!  It's Opening Day tomorrow!!!  Go Reds!!!  Jim's going to the game with Trip.  It's only fair...I got to go last year!  K - Later!

Happy Birthday Anna Banana!!!

It's Anne's birthday!  I remembered but of course I remembered after I had posted so that's why this is late!  Sorry! 

Hope your day is great Anne!  I love you!

4 Days To Go

Until break!!!  Yeah!!!  So ready. 

I really don't have much to talk about.  Yesterday Jim's car had to go in the shop so he was home when I got home.  Nothing major - just a wheel bearing something or other.  It was covered by warranty and we only had to pay for labor.  We waited around the house hanging out until I could go take him to pick it up.  I had planned on making Penne Pasta with Vodka Cream Sauce but in the car on the way to get the car, Jim convinced me to get Laroas's.  I actually got ravioli but Jim got a pizza and I'm excited because now I have lunch. 

Oh, and while Jim and I waited for the phone call to get his car we watched the dumbest movie ever made:  The Alphabet Killer.  Crazy enough, it was apparently based on a true story.  The main character?  A cop with schizophrenia who hears voices and sees dead people (of the victims whose killer she's chasing).  What hodunk, backward police department is letting a schizo cop on the beat?  And in the movie, it isn't like they didn't know she was kookadoodle doo!  She had a psychotic breakdown on the job...tried to kill herself because the voices had become too much.  It was so stupid!  Jim chooses the dumbest shit to watch. 

Okay - well that's all I've got.  Better head to work.  Oh, and I stole this picture off my Mom's blog of my quilt - not the best view of it but you get the idea.  Turned out pretty good if I do say so myself. 

Did You Know?
(Kim - you'll like this one and wish you were a reptile!) Reptiles are unable to experience dizziness. Don't you wish you were an iguana? 

K - I'm out later!

A Little Blog Hiatus

Sorry about being a slacker - I just didn't have a post in me since Thursday nor did I have the time.  I've been a bit busy, first with getting things together for the shower, plus I had to finish my quilt for Maggie and little sundress, then I was busy starting my new quilt, then helping Jim repair the fence.  Really I wasn't just sitting around (like usual).  Speaking of the fence - we no longer have a tree sticking through it...YAY!!!  At least not until the next gust of wind hits or lightening strikes!  Stupid mother nature or God or fate or karma or whatever. 

Okay so, the shower:  It was great but of course I forgot my camera.  I'm waiting for others to post pictures on FB - then I'll copy and post.  I did, however get a nice side picture of Maggie's belly...she's pretty small for 7 months, I think.  She feels fat but she doesn't look it at all.

After the shower, I raced home, got Jim and we headed to Raeburn for some family time and pizza - oh and some Aunt Flo cobbler!  Deeeelicious.  It was so funny too - J.J. was sitting on Susan's lap eating some peach cobbler and he had had maybe one or two bites and he said, "Mommy - when I finish this, I'm gonna want some more!"  He's a hoot and a holler!  I love that cute, sweet boy!!! 

Yesterday I started my latest quilt.  It'll take me a while because it's going to be a king-sized one.  I made the design and cut about 150 squares so far.  It's going to be very pretty and I can't wait! 

K - that's about all I've got.  This is the last week before Spring Break and I don't think I've ever been as ready for a week off as I am right now.  I need to find the strength next week so that I can power through the next 6 or 8 after that.  Oh, and bonus, the house bill bringing back our 5 days went through - however!!! It still has to be signed by our dumb ass governor and unless he signs the "emergency" whatever, it won't go though for this year.  Cross your fingers.  Funny though - Mason is still saying they get out on their originally scheduled day.  Hmm...K - later!

Can You Believe It's Happened AGAIN!!!??? WTF!?

I know that I'm a "lucky" person in the grand scheme of things:  I don't want for any of the necessities of life; I can (currently) pay my bills; I'm not living in Japan where my whole life has literally been taken away from me;  BUT!  Can I for just one minute complain and whine "WHY ME?!"  Seriously!  Does the Big Guy not like my fence?  Does the that big Jerk in the Haystack upstairs want my saved pennies to continually go toward new fencing cause, REALLY!  This is getting ridiculous!  I'm moving to the desert, no, the TUNDRA!  Where no trees can blow anything of mine to bits.

Don't look too closely at Jim's plumbers crack

So there I am...I had just gotten home from a quick race to the store.  It was storming.  The dogs wanted out.  I said, "Hell no!  Not with it raging out there!"  (It was actually blowing over and really wasnt' that bad anymore).  I called Max to wish him a happy birthday.  He said thanks, and then quickly passed the phone to Anne.  I turned around and looked out the window to see a big, bright bolt of lightening.  I turned my head toward the dogs and said, "See!?" and then heard what I thought was thunder.  I turned my head back toward the window once more and HERE WE GO AGAIN!!!  Tree through the fence!  WTF!!!  I could just cry!  I kind of did a little. 

After getting off the phone with Anne (sorry I didn't call you back) I called Jim and told him I needed him to get his arse home.  Then I calmed down for a bit and headed out to clean up some of the mess.  Much of this tree was blown to smithereens.  It was a fairly dead tree anyway and I guess it was only a matter of time before it went down.  I just wonder how many more are out there like that...ready to go down (through my fence) with the next medium rush of wind.  Jim came home and fashioned some temporary fencing so the dogs can't escape.  We'll be spending much of this weekend fixing.  Well, I'll only be able to help on Sunday but Jim can at least cut the tree up, haul that dead shit away and buy supplies.  Ugh!

Bubba took comfort in some food!  Hee hee...he loves it when we fill the food container up.  He must think he's died and gone to heaven!

K - well, that's all I've got.  I think that's enough.  Today is my Friday - bonus.  Anne - I'll call you later today to talk about Friday and preparations.  Later!

Is It?

Is it a Chomper's birthday today!?  I believe it is!!!  Happy birthday MAX!!!  Hope it's a great one.  What are you - twenty-five now? 

In addition - it's National Puppy Day!  Aunt Kathleen sent me a "Why dogs bite people" email and I had to share a couple.  Love these pups.

This might be the best dog that ever was!!! I mean really - that kid should get a beat down!  Poor Spuds!

Okay so yesterday I'm sitting there talking to Maggie...it was around 5PM.  I had taken my 2 miler with Sami, did all my prep work for dinner and was finally sitting down to chill.  I kept having these little jabs on the side of my left boob.  So I go fishing to try and find out what it is.  A LADYBUG!!!  A ladybug was in my GD bra.  It must have been in there since I changed to walk Sami or somehow nestled his way in while I was actually walking her.  Damn ladybug must have had a sweet death all cuddled up to my boob.  Jim told me that's how he wants to pass.  I said, "What?  You want to die while biting my boob - annoying me so much that I reach in and crush you and throw you across the room?  That doesn't sound pleasant."  He wants what he wants!

Alright well, that's all I've got for today.  Cold weather is on its way!  Hopefully it will all push out of here after next week, leaving my Spring Break week warm and sunny!  Later!

International Goof-Off Day!

And you know who is already celebrating?  My computer!  She's acting all kinds of goofy...being all slow and dumb like Goofy...driving me nuts!  This could be a very short post if she keeps it up!  Who wants to buy me a new computer?  Ugh!  She just froze up for about 3 minutes taking away precious post time!  So annoyed.

So my backyard is a giant muddy wading pool.  Yesterday afternoon, at around 4:30, the sky opened up and dumped about 2 inches of rain in 15 minutes.  The already soaked ground couldn't keep up and so we have a giant mud puddle.  Hate this time of year in my backyard!  I should just dig it all up and make it one big cement patio!  ARG!  Zeke doesn't care, however...nope!  He just wades out there, splashes around and then comes back to the deck steps and barks - waiting for me to come get him, pick his muddy ass up and spend the next 5 minutes toweling him off.  I think he likes this treatment and does it on purpose. 

Oh, this is funny.  So, have I mentioned that Zeke is losing his hearing?  Well, he is.  Anyway - last night, Jim and I are sitting down for dinner - dogs surrounding us.  Zeke was on the carpet just up from the two stairs that lead into the family room.  He was sitting there with his back to us just sort of staring out the front window by the front door.  Suddenly, from out of no where he lets out a BARK!!!!  Scared the shit out of both Jim and I.  I look down at him and he's just sitting there all nonchalantly like nothing just happened.  So I yell down to him, "YOU KNOW YOU JUST BARKED, RIGHT!!!"  Christ dog!  Between the senility that I think is setting in and being deaf...JEEZ! 

Oh and could you just die!?

By the way Kim - I heard Daniel Son got the best scores last night!  Yeah Karate Kid and I'm surprised he didn't suck!

K - well, that's all I've got.  Best get to school.  Ooh - I keep forgetting I won't be there Friday...bonus!  Later!



Could Be A Tumor!

Okay, it's not a "tuma" but my head has perpetually ached for about 3 days now.  It's driving me nuts.  It feels like I need to crack my neck but of course when I try, nothing happens.  I take some naproxen and zip, nil, goose egg, nada, zilch - the constant dull ache is still there...just in the back, behind my ears.  Arg!  Hopefully it will go away as I loosen up this morning and head to the dreaded work.  It's a 4-day week for me, however, so that's good.  Positive thinking!

I really have nothing else to talk about.  My life is boring. Lets keep it that way...you know what I mean!? 

In SB5 news, they are thinking that the bill will probably go to a vote by early April.  Suspicions are that testimony is over in the house and it will sit this week.  They will then try and iron out any changes they've made so that the Senate will agree to it without having to go to committee again there.  There is the belief that if it goes to committee again in the Senate - it won't pass another vote there.  We'll see. 

Did You Know?
In 1923, parts of China's rural Heilongjiang province experienced a severe thunderstorm during which thousands of cobras - COBRAS!!! -  fell from the sky.  I would freakin' DIE!!!  Aside from the fact that I'd probably get bit and die, I would have a heart attack and die!  WTH!?!?!?  Gross!

K - I'm out...later!

Corn Dogs!

It's Corn Dog day.  I don't know that I've had a corn dog since I was at Mercy Montessori Center but you know what?  It sound delicious.  A little corn dog on a stick; a little mustard; a beer - perfectamundo - as The Fonz might say.  I miss Fonzie!

So, it's been a whirlwind weekend so far here in my household.  I've grocery shopped, cleaned, sewed and watch Harry Potter.  My God, I'm exhausted.  And my fingers look like mangled pin cushions.  Today will be more of the same too.  I've almost completed the quilt - just have to do the edging.  Yeah!  Just in time too. 

I'll be updating my Recent Reads here in a bit by the way.  I just finished a book by an author who lives in Dayton, Ohio.  She's a great writer (she wrote The Kindness of Strangers) and it's really funny to read about her characters heading down to Cincinnati, talking about Fountain Square, getting Graeters!  Love it. 

And that's about it.  We have two weeks until Spring Break, which I can't believe.  I'm definitely ready for some warm weather too.  Jim's been working on getting the backyard up to snuff.  It's a disaster out there.  Since taking those two trees down last year we've had major dents in the yard that pool water not to mention the stumps that haven't been removed.  He started burning the one that sits in the middle of the yard.  It's doing the job but slowly.  I told him to get some charcoal but he didn't listen and just used wood.  I think charcoal would get it gone faster.  Oh well.  Anyway - I'm hoping the yard will be better this year but probably not.  We'll see.

Okay - well, I'm outta here.  I'll have a little breakfast and then get going on the quilt.  Later corn dogs!

HP - #1

My weekend will be full and joyous!  Why, you wonder?  Because it's a HARRY POTTER WEEKEND!!!  And JOY!!!  It started last night.  While I was hunkering down in bed, flipping channels, I heard that sweet voice say, "Platform nine and three quarters?!  Hagrid..."  Very exciting.  I've missed my Harry Potter! 

In other news, TGIF!  I'm so exhausted.  Zeke got some sleep last night.  It helps that the weather is so fine because he really didn't sleep after I had gotten home yesterday.  He just kept going in and out and in and out and down the stairs (off the deck) and bark, bark, bark, at the fence line and bark, bark, bark at the steps to be carried up and so on.  That boy wears me out.  Anyway - for the most part - he was good last night...he barked once and Jim got up and made him turn around and go back to bed.  We've started putting the gate up again at the top of the stairs and that's helped.  Can't wait for him to be "completely" healed! (Heeled!)

Did You Know?
American televangelist Jim Bakker played a Sleestak on one episode of the classic children's television show "Land of the Lost."  That is fascinating!!!  Wow!  Loved Land of the Lost!

K - I don't have much else to talk about.  Last day of OGTs...glad about that.  Sick of having to sit in a room not mine...don't have my IEP computer program to work on paperwork.  Bunch of horse shit!  And the woman whose room I'm in must think that she doesn't have to do anything.  She just comes and goes as she pleases without thought to monitoring or anything.  Wacko!  Whatever though...only two kids today and they shouldn't take too long before I'm back in my room.

Other than that - I've got nothing.  K - later.

No Time!

Sorry...short post:

Coffee not made this morning - my fault.

Zeke is still a pain in the ass - now taking to "making his bed" for 35 minutes while already lying down.  Don't know WTH is going on with him!  Senility?

Must get gas on the way to work...should cost about $50!  Ridiculous!

Day 4 of OGTs...have to sit in a room with a woman who wants to "chat" while kids are trying to test...stupid woman.

Happy St. Pat's Day!  Yes I'm wearing green, Kim!  You don't get to smack me today.

Did You Know?
Rabbits are sexually stimulated by the scent of talcum powder.  Next time I see a rabbit, I'm going to test this theory out.  And by the way - this factoid means that some scientist somewhere was actually TESTING to see what stimulates rabbits sexual drive.  Someone needs to find a hobby.  Or, maybe that is his/her hobby.

K - I'm out...sorry so short.  Maggie - drive safe today!  I dreamt of Eva last night.

Where Would We Be Without Lips?

It's Lips Appreciation Day.  Isn't that weird?  However, when you think about it, we all should really appreciate our lips.  I mean, if we didn't have lips, I could smile my famous pretty smile at you!  If we didn't have lips I couldn't say, "Read my lips".  If we didn't have lips, I couldn't kiss my babies (they probably wish I didn't have lips for that reason).  Although - we could all make a lot of money being ventriloquists!  If we didn't have lips, would we all walk around with dummies on our arms?  I would, that's for sure.  I may just do that anyway. 

You know what else I'm going to do?  Quit my job (after I've saved a two-year equivalent of what I make right now) and move to the wilderness to live for two years - just like Thoreau.  Just give it all up (well, I'd probably just rent my house, I mean, I'd have to have something to come back to) and live off the land.  Seriously.  Find a tract of land - about 100 acres or more - buy it, build a cabin and just be.  I'd take Jim with me too of course.  And the pups. Just brush this city life off my shoulders and disappear for a while.  Sigh. 

So Maggie thinks the Mittenfish looks like Ziggy.  I have to agree.  What do you think?

On the Zeke News Front:  I've decided that his issues have all been because he's been in pain.  Yesterday when I had done all my jobs and was sitting down to watch TV - around 5:00 - Zeke barked from upstairs.  So I went to check on him and he was just sitting in his pillow waiting for me to pick him up and bring him downstairs.  In addition, the site on his knee where there's still a bit of swelling was a little more swollen than usual.  I called the doc right away and asked if I should put him back on his anti-inflammatory and pain meds (of which I still had some from a Bubba illness).  He said yes, I did and we all got some sleep last night.  Poor fellow...he just never complains and I'm too stupid to figure things out.  Now why the hell can't puppies have lips (and voice boxes) to tell me WTF!? 

K - I'm out...later!

Ides Of March!!!

How appropriate that it falls on the same day that ass wipe gov. kasich is "unveiling" his budget.  ARG!  He's proving, quickly, to be a real piece of work.  Originally he wasn't going to allow the budget briefing to be recorded.  His spokesperson said reporters could record a town-hall event later in the evening but could bring only pens, notepads and small voice recorders to the briefing.  Governors in the past have not limited the recording of budget introductions.  I mean, doesn't that sound a bit secretive?  And sneaky?  I don't know - I'm sure I'm a bit sensitive to his methods because of what he's doing to the people of his state but come on!  Why so hush-hush?  Are you a little afraid of the backlash?  I'm sure education will take a nice big hit today...Kasich seems to be following in the footsteps of many other jackass governors in this country who think it's a good idea to attack those educating their children.  Ugh! 

Breathe...breathe...breathe!  Choke...sputter...cough...breathe.

So, yesterday was good.  It was the first day for OGT's (Ohio Graduation Test) and let me tell you the day FLEW by.  Got a TON of work done.  More hopefully today. 

Did You Know?
The striped mittenfish, a deepwater species recently discovered in the Java Sea, can change its sex at will by turning its entire body inside out.  First of all - that's one of the coolest things I've ever heard!  Second of all, that's the coolest name for anything I've ever heard.  Third - if it turns itself inside out - what happens to all it's organs?  Nature is so cool!  By the way - this is the mittenfish.  I think this might be one that has turned itself inside out already.  It looks like the insde of my cheek!  How ugly is that thing?  He looks sad!  I would be too if I looked like that!  Blech!!!

Zeke news:  He's driving out of my freakin' mind!!!  He's taken it upon himself to just bark - for no reason!  At all hours of the night.  Last night - Jim got home late - around 7:30.  This meant that when he got home, he let the babies out and Zeke stayed out forever - just laying in the grass, chillin.  So, he had plenty of time outside before bed.  At 10:13 - I had JUST turned the light out to go to sleep, he starts barking at the sliding glass door.  I told Jim he was just being an ass and he'd stop.  Point one for Zeke who proved his Mama wrong.  Jim got up, took him outside - he peed and Jim brought him right back in and upstairs.  Zeke laid down, I laid down, Jim laid down and proceeded into slumber.  Just on the edge of sleep, I hear Zeke bark from downstairs!  DEVIL!!!  So I go downstairs and he's sitting in his dog pillow, in the family room, looking out the sliding glass door in there...just barking.  So I rolled him over and said, "GO TO SLEEP!  DEVIL!  STOP BEING A BAD DOG!!!"  And I marched upstairs.  I laid down, took a deep breath and was just on the cusp of dreamland when WOOF!!!  Guess who was at the bottom of the stairs and wanted up!?  Jim's turn.  From that point - we were good until 3:30 when he somehow had wandered back downstairs and decided he wanted back up.  RRRRRRRR!!!!!!  I wish he could find a hobby to occupy him when he can't sleep at night!!!  Maybe scrap booking?  I'd be content with him frying his mind with video games - anything if I could just sleep through the night!  Sometimes I don't think he even knows he's barking...he's getting so deaf he doesn't hear himself anymore.  ARG!!!  Maybe I'll slip him some Tylenol PMs! 

K - I'm out...late!  Zeke's fault!  Later

Napping Day? On Monday?

I mean, I get it...the day after Daylight Savings Time...catching up on the hour we lost but - it's Monday.  How am I supposed to nap at work?  I'm living on borrowed time there as it is.  An admin walks into my room while I'm celebrating this day and - SEE YA, Muir!  I mean, you can get drunk at work apparently and not lose your job but me, a quick cat nap?  Done.  Maybe I'll draw some eyeballs on my eyelids! 

Actually - I'm not really feeling the loss of the hour.  I mean, it's not in the middle of the week or anything.  I didn't stay up until 11PM (I stayed up until 9:30ish) but I took a Tylenol PM (for sleep safety sake) and slept just fine.  No big deal.  Whatever. 

So it seems there are some "things" going on with some of the staff at work.  So much "stuff" apparently that we have to have a voluntary staff meeting after school...2:30.  I can't decide if I should go or not.  I'm wondering if it has to do with the info that BFC took it upon herself to spread around?  Who knows.  I'm on the fence about it all.  We'll see.

Okay so today starts OGT week!  Yeah!  I'm actually happy about this because for the most part, I only have to teach my three classes about three times each this week.  AND!!! My plan period is over the lunch hour twice this week!  Yeah!  Bonus.  I'm sure I'll get an email sometime today telling me that I have to do lunch duty.  We'll see.

Did You Know?
Archimedes endured a tragic fate at the hands of drunken Roman soldiers. After forcing him to cut off and eat his own nose, they boiled him in oil.  Ouch.  That's too bad.  Fried Archimedes minus the beak.  Bummer!

K - that's it.  I'm outta here.  Later!

Hot Freakin' Damn! It's Earmuff Day!!!

On March 13th!  Earmuff Day!!??  I don't understand but I like it.  Unfortunately I don't own any earmuffs and that makes me a bit sad.  Maybe I'll go and buy some.  I sure hope I can get to the store early enough...before they're all gone in the mad rush.  Meijer is 24 hours...maybe I'll just head out now. 

In addition it's Daylights Savings - Hate springing forward - losing an hour...doesn't get light until later again...but I do like it staying light later...a sign of warm weather.  Can't wait 'til summer!  Aside from those things - it's also Donald Duck Day but we don't celebrate that in my family because Donald Duck's a dick!  You don't pull my sister's hair and think you can get away with it!  HELL NO!  That damn Disney character is on the banned list in the Arbaugh household!  Yup!

By the way - I'll be "reviewing" three new books on my Recent Read blog!  All goodies and I've discovered a new author!!! 

In today news:  I'm awake, dogs are all currently either eating or drinking...it's a little loud in my house with all the crunching and slurping.  I'll be making breakfast here in a bit and then sitting down to start a new book.  And sewing.  I only have two weeks until the shower so my hands need to get a little busy.  Anyway - plans today are to chill; I need to go to Meijer for some toiletries that I can only find there, oh and to get my earmuffs.  Other than that Jimmy and I will just be with each other...I guess.  He needs to get out in the backyard and do some work.  I should just call it the swamp.  We need a new draining system (French drain) and he needs to seed and get rid of the stumps.  That place is a disaster area.  Ugh.

Okay well - that's all I've got - sorry I'm so boring.  Later.

ELLEN!!!!

That's me showing pride for my middle name cause it's, duh, "Middle Name Pride Day"!!! 

In other exciting news, um...oh, it's Kristyn's birthday today!  She doesn't read this, however, so she won't see it but those of you who are friends with her on FB can wish her a good one - though in Australia, it's almost tomorrow so it would be a BELATED HB!  So confusing.  I wonder if Pat/Anne wished her a happy one on the 10th, just to cover her bases...hee hee!  (Those of you who don't get that - Kristyn's mom - Pat, who now goes by Anne - celebrated Kristyn's b-day on the 12th when she was a kid, not realizing that her b-day was actually the 11th.  It screwed me up for years!)

Okay so Zekey Zoo news:  Went to the vet yesterday and that boney knot on his leg is not a boney knot at all but rather a swelling around the actual knot of fishing line in his leg.  It's normal and SHOULD eventually go down.  It's the last of the swelling that hasn't reduced yet.  It could rupture, however, and release fluid so we have to keep an eye on it.  If that happens, the Dr. said it isn't a big deal, we just need to call.  So Zeke is doing great and recovering as he should.  He can start his walks back up on April 1st.  Yeah!

In other news, I've started getting reply emails back from the Ohio reps that I've emailed.  These letters are making me more mad than I was and I have to be careful when reading so that I don't hit "reply" and say, "F*%k YOU!!!"  That wouldn't be smart, would it?

Did You Know?
The site where the Parthenon was built had to be cleared of hundreds of dinosaur bones (then called giants' bones) before construction could begin. That's cool!



So TGIFF!  This has been a really long week.  I'm ready for a break, I'll tell you that.  Especially from Diablo.  He was so bad yesterday in LA.  He was argumentative, wouldn't do his work, screamed (literally) at the top of his lungs, walked out (took off really) and then got a lunch detention.  By the time next period came, however, he was back to being an angel and doing all his work.  That boy is such a nut.  I'm amazed I didn't scream right back at him though.  I think he may have ruptured my eardrum too.  That kid could drive a person to drink.  Kim, I hope you're back today!  You are a calming spirit to Diablo I think.  Oh and if you are back - bring BHC II; If not - feel better!  We miss you!

Well that's it.  I need some suggestions for din din tonight.  I'm thinking chicken but don't know what chicken to make.  Would love a good recipe or suggestion!  K - I'm out...later!  Happy Friday and Happy Johnny Appleseed Day!

Awesome!!!

This must be FW's favorite day:  International Day of Awesomeness!!!  She is always saying, in her annoying, cheery voice, "AWESOME!"

On a side note - I have to say (and I feel as though this may jinx everything) lately, FW hasn't been such an FW!  She's actually been standing up for what is the right thing to do for our department (rather than being the person that everyone likes - except for me but she doesn't care if I like her or not).  She seems (SEEMS!!!) to be trying to make things fair in the department in regard to teaching assignments etc.  Being the cynic I am, however, I'm waiting for the other shoe to drop.  I'm waiting for the old sucker punch to the gut. 

In SB 5 news - I've sent another 59 letters to the republican house reps.  I figure I'll write a new letter every week until they vote that stupid bill in.  Funny thing:  I went on the website for the link to their names and email and their email addresses have been taken down (at least the ones I checked).  Didn't matter - I just went on my Outlook page here at home and looked at my sent mail from last week and emailed them directly that way.  Stupid republican assholes trying to pull one over on me!  Now they did have a page for each rep where you could fill in all this bullshit and (name, address, phone number etc...all required) before sending them a comment in a comment box (with a character maximum) but that would A) take too much time and B) not give me enough room to paste my letter.  So I say, "HA!!!  You can't foil me!"

Did You Know?
First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt was so convinced the White House was haunted that she kept a vial of holy water on her nightstand.  Cool.  I would like to find out what other presidents have found regarding ghosts.  I have heard that the Lincoln room is quite haunted.  I'm sure Mary Todd Lincoln is in there...she was apparently crazy as a shit house rat!

Did you also know that I had Chipotle last night and it was scrumptious!  Loves me some Chipotle. 

So, today at 4 I have to take Zeke to the vet.  Just a checkup that was originally scheduled for last Wednesday that I forgot about.  Now, how unlike me is that?  I never forget shit like that.  Last week was not a good week for me.  Anyway - I'm a little worried because Zeke has this - what feels like - bone spur on the knee where he had surgery.  It doesn't feel normal.  Let me tell you - I will NOT be doing another surgical procedure on him if they tell me it should be removed.  Not going through that again. 

Well, that's all I've got - must head to work.  Later!

Come On Barbie Let's Go Party!!!

It's Barbie Day!!!  I was definitely a lover of Barbie's when I was a kid.  Maggie and I used to use her bedroom furniture as housing props.  Plus I had the townhouse, dream house and camper.  I think there were two campers in my house and I believe one of them was Anne's (shown?).  Maybe the other was mine but I get my People and my Barbie's confused.  Maybe Anne had a Barbie van and I had the People camper.  Oh, wait!!!  Wasn't there a Scooby Doo van as well!?  I don't know!  I am getting old you know.  Memory isn't what it used to be.  Anyway - happy Barbie Day.

By the way - here was my Fischer Price People Camper!  Loved it! Loved all my people too!  I would play with them for HOURS!!!  I miss my people!

It's also Panic Day!  What should I panic about?  SB 5?  Been there, done that.  Although come November, I'll be in panic mode again for that.  What about "I have no money" panic?!!!  Well, that's no different from any other day!  Um...how about, "Holy Shizz!!!  My ass is getting bigger and bigger!  My gut:  wobblier and wobblier!!!  My arms:  Jigglier and jigglier!!!  All good things to panic about, truly!

Finally, it's Get Over It Day!  That will be my little piece of wisdom that I give to the kids today.  Example:  "Mrs. H!!!  Why did you give me an F for not doing my work?"  Me:  "'Cause you're a slacker!  Get over it!  I have!" 

Did You Know?
"Gustave Eiffel, designer of the Eiffel Tower, enjoyed a successful career as an architect despite having dyslexia and a paralyzing fear of heights."  Yeah, but the elevator is on the wrong side of the tower! 

Okay so, that's all I've got.  Last night's Academic Fair was boring and pretty much a waste of time but alas, these are the things we must do.  They had all the tables for the various departments set up throughout our "common area" but the "Intervention Specialists" were as far from all the other tables as you could get.  It was kind of ridiculous.  They should have just put us in a trailer out back.  Whatever though. 

K - I'm out...later!

I Hate Long Days At Work

Ugh!  Not looking forward to today.  Funny though - I don't really know what our required times are tonight.  Normally, when it's parent/teacher conferences, we're there from 4 to 7:30.  Tonight, however, the Academic Fair is from 5-8.  When I asked FW about it yesterday, she said she thought we were supposed to be there from 5-8 but she didn't know.  Regardless though, I will come home after school to let pups out, feed Zeke his mid-day snack and then had back out.  Staying at school 'til 8PM sucks though but after this we only have one more required long day - I think the 31st of this month.

So in holiday news, very exciting, it's Unique Name Day.  Why don't they just call it "Muir Day"?  That says it all, doesn't it?  It's also IHOP Day, probably because it's Pancake Day, probably because it's Fat Tuesday (Mardi Gras).  Which means, Lent is about to begin.  What should I give up?  Mayyyybeeeee....Liver?  Being nice?  I'll have to think that one over.

Did You Know? (A new Category)
Did you know that in an early draft of Raiders of the Lost Ark, Indian Jones carried a set of brass knuckles instead of a bullwhip?  Hmm!

Well, that's all I've got for now.  I'll type at ya later.  By the way - did you also know that in my spell checking, before posting, "Muir" is not marked as being spelled wrong!?  Mardi Gras is though.  Maybe my name isn't so unique after all!  Damn it!!!  K - later!

Quick Post

I don't have much time because I have an IEP today and I haven't written it...oops.  The (slacker) father probably won't show up anyway.  The girl that this IEP is for pisses me off because she's actually pretty smart but just doesn't do shit!  She has a 6% in English right now, for example.  That's right - you read correctly and I didn't make a typo - SIX PERCENT!!!  You almost have to try to get a bad grade like that.  And by the way - that's up from the 3% it's been most of this quarter.  Needless to say - she will be repeating English 9 next year.  What I don't get is why kids are so stupid (aside from the obvious).  This is a girl who hates school and claims to want to get on with her life; get out of her father's house and be on her own.  Why do kids not realize that in order to do that - you have to at least have to have a high school education.  And of course her aspirations are ridiculous.  She wants to do "medical massage".  I don't think she even knows what that is.  Not to mention how hard that is.  If you can't even motivate to do the work in English 9 - why would you think you could come close to getting that kind of licence, fool?  Maybe that's why she's special ed.  Hmm...

Okay - so, I'm hoping this will be a good week.  They are thinking that SB 5 will take a couple weeks in the House before being voted in.  So I'll keep plugging away - emailing Ohio's reps but I'll try not to dwell on the inevitable.  Tomorrow I have to be at school until 8PM - one of our mandatory 4 nights of work.  Sucks! 

And that's about it.  Nothing else to report.  Had a good day sewing and hanging with my pups.  My left fingers (index and middle) are all chewed up from me sticking a needle in them.  Eva better appreciate her Aunt Muir, that's fer sur!

K - I'm out.  Oh, and here's a little tidbit from my poo calendar:  Did you know that scientists have begun cataloging African elephants DNA from poo samples.  The info is then used to track the migratory habits of the animals as well as illegal ivory traders.  I didn't really know that you could get DNA from poo.  I'll have to be more careful about where I "drop off the kids" huh!?  Never know who's trying to gain info about me...through my poo.  Might just be easier if people gather hair from my brush.  Stoopid people!  Hee hee...later!

Loves Me Some Jon Stewart!

The Daily Show
Tags: Daily Show Full Episodes,Political Humor & Satire Blog,The Daily Show on Facebook

He makes me laugh!

So, my plans for today are to buy a canoe so that I can paddle around in my front and back yard - just for kicks.  It's ridiculous how rainy and soggy it is out there.  We must be paying now for the drought we had at the end of the summer last year.  Ugh!  Bubba wouldn't even go out FRONT this morning with me!  I had to drag his fat ass out there just to pee for about 10 seconds.  I don't really understand why he loves laying in the snow but can't stand to have wet feet.  And then!  When we get inside - he won't let me towel him off.  He's such a nut. 

Anyway - my plans for today are cleaning, grocery shopping and then heading to T&S's at around 3.  A little dinner, a little lovin' on J Bird, a little cuddlin' with Molly - relaxin'.  Hopefully this rain won't be a complete soaker ALL day.  I hate driving in it when it's pouring like it is right now.

Oh, so last night, Jim and I went to the new bar down the street - Traci's.  I like this place because the bar stools are amazing.  Tall, leather, cushy and they have really nice back support that wrap around - plus you can raise and lower the stools as you need.  Not to mention that they have 3 touch screen games.  Their food also comes from Timmy's next door (Chinese).  So we had dinner and as we were finishing up when the Karaoke started.  Oh boy!  Every red neck Tom, Dick and Harry came out to sing last night.  Songs about likin' trashy women and I don't know.  Crazy.  We quickly paid and got the hell out of there before my ears fell off.  Funny!

Well, that's all I've got for now.  I'm going to have a nice relaxing weekend and try not to dwell too much on that which I've been dwelling.  It's hard though when I go on FB and find "friends" trashing teachers etc.  Ugh!  I try not to take it personally because I figure they just don't get it but ugh!  K - I'm out...later!

Feeling Better

After a glass of wine, a nice meal (nothing special just a rendition of Johnny Marzetti), hot bath and a Tylenol PM, I finally slept last night.  I was dreaming (when my alarm went off) of dining at a really expensive restaurant where we (Maggie, Charlie, Trip, Susan, Anne and Dan) had dinner.  The bill was $2200 but we had over 4000 in gift cards so we were all set...except for the tip.  No one had thought to bring any cash!  And we couldn't put tip (obviously) on the gift cards.  In the end I think together we scrounged 100 and then had to call Dad and Becky to bring some cash.  The delivered to us 300 in singles.  It was pretty funny.  Just as my alarm went off I was handing the money over to the waitress.  Thank God I awoke before I had to look her in the eyes with shame. 

In holiday news:  Happy Grammar Day!  It's also Employee Appreciation Day (don't think I'll be getting any gifts for that one!)  It's also Toy Soldier Day.  Now, do you think that's a celebration for an actual toy soldier or the dance?  Hmm...a conundrum to start the day!

You know - it's been a long time since I've featured a Pup of the day!  WTH!?  So, for all you pup lovers (who doesn't love a pup!?) this is CHEWIE:'

Man I loves me some Chewie!  He's a corgi if you didn't know and I want to snuggle with those big sweet ears!  Actually I think it may be a girl because in one of the pics - Chewie is wearing a pink harness. 

Bubba told me he wants a Chewie to share his love of snow with!  And can I ask:  Mom, which would you rather!?  A trip to Arizona or a sweet lovey Chewie to snuggle up to?!  I think the choice is clear! 

Okay well - I'm happy it's Friday.  I'm glad to get this week over with.  Hopefully it will be an easy day and then YIPPEE!!!  Get to see J Bird tomorrow and Maggie, Charlie, Trip and Susan!  Later!

No Sleep!

Worry, worry, worry...stress, stress, stress.  I woke up at 10:30 (ZEKE!!!); I was up from 12:30 - 2:30 and I'm not sure I ever really fell asleep.  I woke at 3:30 and laid there until 5:00.  I don't know if I can take another 3 weeks of waiting for this thing to go through the House and pass there.  It probably won't take that long by the way...I'm sure Kasich will push for this thing to go through by his state of the state address.  Man oh man!

In addition I have a meeting with a parent who thinks I have some knowledge of NCAA requirements and that I can help her kid who is on my caseload become eligible.  In March.  When he's had all year to get his core GPA (whatever that is) up to at least a 2.0.  She's scrambling now because her slacker kid f&$ked around all year and didn't pull his grades up to par.  I guess I'll just sit there in the meeting and say, "I don't know" and "Um, I dont' know" and "Yeah, I don't know that either"!  UGH! 

Sorry for the negative post.  Tired.  Stressed.  Bummed out.  Later

Blue Ash Chili

Jim and I finally went to Blue Ash Chili!  YUM!  It's one of the places that Guy Fieri featured on Diners, Drive-ins and Dives.  Jim and I both just got 3-ways (actually Jim got a 4-way with bean) and coneys but they also serve double-deckers, gyros, fish and chips and lots more.  I just wanted to see how their chili compared.  It was deeeeelicious. Actually very meaty.  Upon getting ready for bed, Jim queried: "Do we like this better than Skyline?"  Me:  "NO!  Nothing is better than Skyline but it's certainly a close second and 4000 times better than nasty old Gold Star." 

My dentist appointment was a success yesterday.  No cavities and my gums look good!  Yeah!  They did voice a worry about my cheek biting.  A bad habit that I have - I nibble on my cheek, usually without realizing it.  Dr. S told me that I need to stop if I can because the "trauma" can lead to cancer cells developing.  Yowza!  How bad would it be to have cancer of the cheek/mouth?  So, people out there who see me every day, if you see me nibblin' you have my permission to chastise me! 

In SB5 news - there could be a vote on the bill by Friday.  I'm getting all freaked out again but trying to reel it in.  I'm trying to convince myself that sane people won't let this happen but it's difficult.  I was talking to my dentist and telling him what it could mean to someone like me (having my salary essentially cut in half causing me to lose my house and everything) and he asked why this info isn't out there in the news about how horribly it would affect people regarding pay etc.  My answer is:  I don't know.  Why isn't that info out there?  Why isn't someone reporting on more than just the general information?  Why do all reports seem to twist the story around to make it seem like unions don't pay their fair share?  Why don't they talk about how in Kasich's attempt to "break the back of teacher unions" he's causing a huge populations pay to fall below the poverty level?  I just don't understand it.  Tom Niehaus has been quoted in saying that he just wants to ensure the taxpayers that the money they're giving the state is being spent wisely.   But lets look at who's spending that money and why states are in debt right now.  It isn't the teachers and police and firefighters that put us into debt!  It isn't collective bargaining.  States without it are in the same boat Ohio and Indiana and Wisconsin are. It's those individuals in the capitol.  It's administrators like mine that spend frivolously on computers we don't need that don't work; lunches out every day; umbrellas they give the staff for x-mas gifts; t-shirts etc. Keep your umbrellas and t-shirts please, I'd rather keep my job and get a fair wage.  UGH! 

Yeah - I'm not doing such a good job maintaining calm.

K - I'd best head out to my job that I probably won't have for very much longer.  Later

I Might Be Getting Older!

Shocking I know but I'm really starting to "show the signs".  First of all, my eyes water for no explainable reason.  Just sitting here, my right eye is watering like a sieve.  And it isn't always the same eye.  Sometimes it's my left! I can't even wear mascara anymore (except on special, "going out" occasions).  So annoying. 

I also think my ass is getting bigger.  Now, that may not be a sign of me getting old but rather fatter, however, I think I'm getting fatter because I'm getting old!  It's a vicious cycle!

Another sign?  When I get up in the morning?  5 days out of 7 I have bags under my eyes.  That never used to happen.  And it isn't because I'm tired!  It's just a random "baggy-eyed" day.  Speaking eyes and bags, I noticed that Jimmy is getting little wrinkles under his eyes too.  Hee hee!  He's getting old!  Just like me!  And he's two years older!  Sucker!

Not that I mind getting older. I don't really.  In fact one of my kids the other day asked me if I could go back and live in my 20s again, would I.  Truthfully, I answered I wouldn't.  Now, 18-19 years old - yes.  I would love to go back to Boston for that one year and live it again.  But just for that specific time.  Anyway I don't mind getting older.  I mind my ass getting bigger.  I mind having to work out to keep my ass from attacking me.  I mind having to keep tissues with me at all times so I can wipe my eyes.  I mind the aches I have every now and then in my joints.  I mind that I'm only a few years away from having to switch vitamins (soon I'll be on the ones without iron)! 

By the way - here's a sweet boy that isn't old and keeps me feeling young!  Loves me a J Bird!  I got this picture from Susan the other day and forgot!  What the heck!  What kind of aunt am I that FORGETS the sight of a sweet little man!?  Terrible!  And I get to see him this weekend!  YIPPEE!!!

Hot Damn!  It's Pig Day!  I'm a pig!  I wonder if that means we should celebrate by eating pork or celebrate by NOT eating pork.  Hmm...regardless though - I'm having chicken tonight.  Chicken Marsala.  Yum! 

K - I'm out...oops, had to wipe my eye there.  Oh, and great - my left one is watering now.  DAMN IT!!!  Anyway - I'm out.  Later!