Rainy Days and Sundays Always Get Me Down

I know it should be "Mondays" but since it isn't Monday, I had to switch her up! 

By the way...sorry I've been a bit of a slacker in the posting arena...out of town and then just not feeling it.  I'll try and get back into my daily routine today...tomorrow. 

Had a great time at PIB.  We had great weather...lots of hanging out and playing with J.J. and Eva.  Went to the pool, the baseball field, putt putt, jet skiing.  Ate at all the good places (Frosty's for breakfast and pizza; Reel Bar, Dairy Isle).  Hopefully all will go according to plan for August and our weekend up there...just depends if A) Jim can get off on Friday and B) Diane can keep an eye on the baby (Jim will ask his boss during the first week of August and I'll ask Diane - now - as well...weekend of the 22nd).

Last night was fun...we had a "goodbye" cookout for Brandi and Matt who are moving their final belongings from their house next door.  The final walk through for the new people is Tuesday and they close on Wednesday.  I'd assume the move in for the new people will happen Wednesday...or Thursday. 

Plans for today:  It is quite rainy and there is a threat for severe weather but I'm keeping my fingers crossed that no major winds hit.  I've already warned Jimmy to move his car as close to the garage as possible since the tree he parks under keeps dropping large limbs. We will certainly be taking that motha down here soon.  Other than that, I'll probably do some sewing and quilting.  I need to do some practicing on free motion sewing with my machine so that I don't eff my projects up. 

Okay well, Jim and I need to do some cleaning...happy Sunday.  Later!

Sunday PIB Eve

I forgot to post this morning.  Didn't really have time though because I had to get Sami walked and then head to the trail for a bike ride.  We went just over 12 miles and until I get a cushy new bike seat, I think that's about my limit.  I felt great except for my butt at the end.  You'd think as sore as my arse was, it was bony or something...and we all know I don't have a bony butt! 

After the ride, Jim and I had lunch and then I packed.  I'm ready to head up to Columbus, which I will do in about a 1/2 hour or so.

Maggie and I plan on hitting the road tomorrow around 8 or 9...I can't wait to get there!  The weather in PIB looks good with the exception of Wednesday but what they report and what actually happens is always a crapshoot.  Who cares though...it will be fun regardless.

Update on the Dirtster house:  Jim saw Jane (who lives next to the Dirtster house) at Kroger.  She went over to the house the other day while all the clean up was happening and they told her they are putting it up for sale.  Not sure of the extent of what they'll do to the place before putting it on the market but so far they've gutted it.  Jane said the smell, just standing outside of the house was unbelievable.  I can only imagine.  Excited for more new neighbors...hopefully we'll get some more fun people.

Speaking of...Brandi and Matt (our next door neighbors who are moving) have been moving stuff out all weekend.  They had a new mattress delivered to the new place yesterday so from this point on, they'll be sleeping at the new place.  Sayonara I guess.  Sad to see them go but hopefully the newbies will be winners. 

Okay well, that's all I've got.  Best call Maggie and let her know I'll be heading out and up in a bit.  Later and I'll be posting on FB for the remainder of the week (until Saturday or so).

It Came!

There I was, lounging in my bathtub, reading Insurgent (#2 in the Divergent series) when I heard the tell-tale sounds of the mail truck. And then I heard it stop and cut its engine.  So I popped up, grabbed my towel and then nearly fell on my ass from the slippery floor and the head rush/dizziness from the heat.  I really wanted to make sure that the mail carrier would leave my sewing machine without a signature.  She did.  I dried off, got dressed and headed down to get my present. 

Let me just say that my new Singer is awesome.  I was able to thread it easily - BONUS!  Loading up the bobbin was simple.  The automatic thread cutter is terrific.  Switching feet takes two moves.  The extended table for large projects is superb.  I've done only a little experimenting with the different stitches but I plan to do more today.  I want to really get a feel for the decorative stitches and figure out how to work the computer on it.  Oh and by the way - I dreamt of it last night.  Can't wait to have fun with it today.  Kind of glad that it isn't going to be very nice today.

How pissed am I to see all these back to school commercials!?  This summer is going by way too fast.  I fear that once I get back from PIB, before I know it...ARG!

In neighbor news (the Dirtster house I told you about yesterday):  There were several cars, people and a large work truck with trailer on it when I arrived home from the store yesterday.  As the morning progressed, a large Rumpke dumpster was delivered...probably around 11:00.  By 1:00, it was completely full (I kid you not) and there was a SECOND dumpster delivered.  CRAZY!  My take is that they are gutting the whole house.  I can't imagine they would be doing this for any other reason then to sell it but there's no telling. 

K - well, I'm going to go walk Sami, make breakfast and pour a mimosa.  Yum!  Hitting the road to Columbus at some point tomorrow (PIB Monday).  Happy Saturday.  Later!

I Hope...

I have no idea when my sewing machine will get here but it is in transit and was shipped from Plainfield, IN.  This is a place just west of Indianapolis so I'm hoping it will be delivered today...should be today...I was told it would be today. I got my fabric in the mail yesterday so I'll be able to complete the top of Maggie's duvet.  I can't wait to try out all the different 600 stitches that it can make!  I'm sure I won't necessarily try ALL 600...today...but I'll certainly try a bunch out.  Like the quilting stitches of which there are about 71.  Everything from flowers to boats to dogs.  The lettering is amazing...I could even write in Greek or Russian!  I'm sure all will be happy when I get this machine so I stop talking about it, huh?

Other plans today:  I'll do a grocery shop today so that Jimmy will have food for next week while I'm in PIB.  I'll make him some breakfast burritos as well.  I'll walk Sami, of course.  I'll do a clean and maybe lay out if my sewing machine doesn't get here until later in the day. 

Interesting goings-on in the Dirtsters house up the street.  Background info:  Three houses up from us is a house that was sold about 8 years ago from an older couple who moved to Mobile, AL.  The house was for sale forever because of the economy.  It finally sold but was a "lease to buy" thing.  The "family" that moved in was, to say the least, wack-a-doo.  There was originally two "ladies", an older man (with no teeth...he only came out of the house to collect the mail and would gather it in bare feed and shorts at all times of the year...even the snow) and a younger guy.  Rarely were they ever seen, although the "ladies" showed up one Halloween get-together we had.  They wore no costumes but somehow still scared the shit out of us all.  Not sure if they were sisters or lovers (which is fine)...they sort of looked alike but who knows.  The ladies smoked those cigarillos (Swisher Sweets) and let me tell you, when their garbage was out, the smell was unbelievable.  At one point in their about 5 years living in the house, they started collecting shit and just putting it in their driveway.  Things like a workout bench, a broken entertainment unit, planters, chairs.  That was cleaned up pretty quickly when the neighbor across the street called and reported them.  They used to stick twigs in the ground (limbs that seemed to have just broken off from nearby trees) as though they would grow.  At one point they had a pack of dogs that they let just wander the neighborhood.  I'm pretty sure the same neighbor across from them had the SPCA come out and take them.  Needless to say, these were not "Roth Ridge" quality people.

Several months ago, I noticed a U-Haul truck at their house.  Immediately I got excited, thinking they may be moving.  Indeed they did.  Apparently they skipped out, covertly, leaving the owners high and dry.  (Turns out the woman that bought the house, bought it to help these distant family members out with the understanding that they would make the mortgage payments.) Jim found out the story surrounding this house by tracking down the owners and calling them (not knowing if they were aware of the people hightailing it out of there).  He also managed to get inside the house and said the place was basically destroyed.  There was mold waist high on the walls in some places.  Sad as it is really a nice home. 

Well, over the next few days, someone - well three people - have been over there cleaning things up.  They've done a ton in the yard: weeding, cutting down overgrowth, mowing etc.  They've also been hauling the crap out of the garage (of which is up to the ceiling).  There are dozens of bags of garbage in the breezeway as well. I can only hope that this means they plan on putting the place up for sale (please Jesus!).  I can't imagine they could get much for it (unless they gut it and rehab it) but it's a house that deserves a nice family.  Fingers crossed.

Okay well, I'm hungry and Sami is ready.  TGIF!  Thank God It's Fibay!  Later!

Shipped!

So excited!!!  My sewing machine has shipped and should be here tomorrow!  YAY! YIPPEE! YAHOO!  Guess we all know what I'll be doing all weekend!

In other news - did anyone else see the new robot Asimo out by Honda?  It kind of gives me the willies.  The way it runs is so sneaky and weird. 

Loving this weather!  The current temperature is: 54°!!!  Love that! Kind of cold even.  Sami was very cuddly last night.  Should be a beautiful day today...high of about 79°.  I'm thinking about going for a bike ride...we'll see.

In other news...ooh, it's Green Bean Delivery day!  Getting lots of goodies...tomatoes, potatoes, corn, broccoli, brussel sprouts, squash, shallots and some fruit. Getting pears today...haven't gotten those before.  Just like Christmas.  Can't wait for the real Christmas!  I love Christmas! 

They keep saying "doodie" on the Today Show...of course they really mean "duty" but that's not where my mind goes. 

Okay well, I think I'll go get my clothes on (sorry for that image in your head) and get Sami walked.  She's all itchy lately...that time of year again.  She gets flea medicine and I've inspected her...not sure why she's all wiggly and scratchy.  Maybe I should give her another bath.  I'll wait until it warms up again.

Happy Thursday!  Later!

Tired...Jim's Fault

Jim went out to dinner with his brother last night and didn't get home until almost midnight.  I didn't expect him to stay out that late (not that I care) and so couldn't sleep.  This has left me a little deprived (depraved).  Doesn't really matter, however, because other than driving up to Columbus, I have nothing else to do.  Although, I'll have to be alert and aware so that I can be a momma to Maggie's baby.  Hee hee.

In other news - there was apparently a snake in my garage. Jim said he got home last night and was lingering and he looked down and thought, "why is there a rope on the ground?"  He managed to get it out but I was not happy to hear about this.  Why did he even tell me?  And by the way!  It's his fault it was in there (isn't everything his fault?).  I mean realistically, it's God's fault but he's not here to reprimand (wait a minute...isn't God everywhere) so Jim gets the brunt.  He left the garage door open ALL DAY LONG Sunday...you know...so he could move shit from one side of the thing to the other...so I'm sure it came in then. UGH!  I need to put up a sign (NO SNAKES ALLOWED) so these motha's know they aren't welcome! 

Okay well...Oh, great!  One of the newscasters on channel 9 just said, "Ex-cetera"!  WTF!? 

K - time to get my shit together.  I hope to be on the road around 8:30.  Need to eat, walk Sami and shower.  Best mosey.  Later!  Pics to come...maybe. 

Rainy Monday

Sami's bummed with all this rain.  She wants to go on her walk! She keeps looking at me then looking outside then looking at me the sticking her bottom lip out.  I keep telling her a bird is going to land on her lip but she just keeps it up.  Hopefully the rain will let up and we'll head out a bit later but until then, what are my plans?  Well, I'll go to the grocery in a bit...do my weekly shop and after that, I've got nothing.  I'll probably do a bit of sewing...maybe some cutting (squares for quilts). I'm so excited for my new machine to get here.  I may even be able to do applique and fancy stitching and all kinds of stuff.  YAY!

Tomorrow looks to be the better day compared to Wednesday I think I'll head to Columbus Tuesday. I'll just go up for one day...come home Wednesday morning...hopefully catch a few rays...hang with Eva and Maggie. 

And that's about all I've got.  Happy Monday to all.  Guess I'll head out and get my errands done.  Harry Potter Deathly Hallows 1 and 2 are on today so I think we'll know what I'll be watching all day!  Later!

OH BOY OH BOY OH BOY!!!

I'm so excited.  Why?  Because I just purchased a new sewing machine.  This thing is amazing! I don't know how well you can see but in the second picture - look at all the different stitches this thing can do!  It embroiders and should be quite efficient for my quilting! It comes with 18 different feet!  It was slightly expensive but I figure it will be worth every penny! Actually, it normally retails for $700 but Amazon had it for just over $300...not bad. How am I going to wait 2-3 days before it gets here?  ARG! 

In other news...um...I've got nothing!  It's Sunday and will possibly/hopefully rain today.  I think I'll head to Columbus for a day on Tuesday...to hang with Maggie and Eva in the pool.  I'll keep an eye on the weather to see if Tuesday will be the day. 

And that's about all I've got.  Sami has been walked and breakfast has been consumed so now I think I'll just relax and watch CBS Sunday Morning.  Ooh, a Jason Mraz piece is coming up.  Awesome!  Later...happy Sunday!

UPDATE:  Got this photo from Maggie...how cute is that little underbiting bulldog!? By the way - I don't think I mentioned how good he was when we were there over the July 4th weekend.  He was so cuddly and happy and NOT annoying.  He's really growing up and showing visitors that he's turned into a sweet love!

So Much Fun

The Ladies

I had so much fun last night...just a reminder that I need to get downtown and hang with my friends in that part of the city more often. Good thing is that this "Girls night out" is now a planned event for the first Friday of every month and those who can make it can and those who can't come next time (hopefully).


Terri and Muir

So, first I headed down around 4:15 to meet with Terri at her house so she could drive. I ended up driving to her place myself instead of having Jimmy do it...thought I'd give Jimmy a break. I figured I could have a drink or two and then drink water and be fine to drive home and if I wasn't, I could still call Jim for a ride. Terri and I (and a friend named Lisa) went from Terri's and met the rest of the ladies at the rooftop bar (21C Rooftop bar).  So cool...I'd never been there and didn't even know it existed...not sure how anyone else does either as it's down an alley...very covert.  Such beautiful views.  Couches for all seating and awnings...awesome.

From there we walked to Fountain Square where Via Vite is.  Terri and I shared an entrée (whole roasted chicken with caramelized brussel sprouts and an antipasti - pork belly with caramelized brussel sprouts). It was all so delicious and lovely.  We then headed to Nicholson's because a friend of many of the ladies was playing (Paul Otten).  A drink there, some dancing, laughing and it was time to go home.  I was in bed by 12:30ish but not ready for sleep so I was probably asleep around 2:00.  Of course I still woke up at 7:30.  Oh well, who cares...it's Saturday.

Plans today:  Sami is walked and we're all fed.  Jimmy will clean upstairs and then I think he and I will head to Shooter's.  It's been a while and Jimmy deserves a treat.  From there...who knows.  May just have to be a lazy day. 

K - well, I'm out.  Happy Saturday to all. 

Girls Night Out

Metropole

YAY!  It's Friday.  Not that it matters...every day could be Friday for me.  Although, actually, no...I'd rather every day be Saturday because then Jimmy wouldn't be working.  Well, no...then I'd get sick of him always being around (he'd get sick of me too). 

Anyway - tonight is girls night out.  I'll be heading downtown to meet up with Terri and some other ladies (not sure who exactly will be joining) first at the Metropole - a rooftop bar downtown, near the Aronoff and then to Nada for dinner.  Can't wait.  It's been way too long since I've seen these ladies and I always have a good time.  Originally I wasn't going to go because I'm a loser when it comes to downtown but I'll have Jimmy drive me to Terri's and she'll drive us down there.  Jim will then pick me up after dinner.  He's a good boy, huh? I didn't even have to ask him to do this...he just offered.

Today I'll just be running some errands and then coming


Nada

home to chill with Sami.  I may lay out for a bit...who knows.  Pretty exciting, huh? 

Okay well, I best mosey...run my errands so I can get back home to do nothing.  Later!  Happy Friday!

 

Productive

Yesterday was quite the productive day for me:  I mowed the lawn, front and back (I was feeling it so thought I'd give Jimmy a break but that just means he has to clean the house Saturday) met the new neighbors (they were next door for their inspection) and nearly completed the top for a new baby/crib quilt (at left).  I had all these remnants of blue and thought, hmm...what can I make?  Voila!  Anyone know a mother of a boy who could use that?  I need to figure out the backing for it and buy a new sewing machine that does easy machine quilting...shouldn't take me too terribly long. These types of quilts are easy, easy, easy (squares with very few cuts)...I could do a million of these.

Today is supposed to be beautiful.  I'll walk Sami here in a bit and then maybe I'll take a bike ride.  Even though I'm going to make Jimmy clean on Saturday, I need to do a quick vacuum because these stupid helicopters are DRIVING ME CRAZY!!!

So Friday, some friends of mine are doing their monthly girls night out.  I missed the first one because I was out of town.  And of course, Friday they chose two places (drinks at one and dinner at another) that are downtown.  I don't drive downtown because I'm directionally challenged there.  Seriously: I've been going downtown for years but I never do it alone because I can never figure out where I'm going or how to get there.  Now, normally I'm not such a "kitty" about going places but downtown is different for me.  I emailed and asked them to chose a non-downtown place next time. 

Okay well, Sami is ready to go...I slept a little late and she didn't so...happy Thursday.  Ooh!!! Today is Green Bean Delivery day!  YAY!!!  Later!

Duvet Making

At the butterfly show

I got a ton done with my duvet cover yesterday.  I cut all the fabric and sewed 4 1/2 of the 6 rows. The only reason I didn't finish the top was I didn't have enough of the owl material.  I knew when I bought the material, there wouldn't be enough of the owls but what can you do?  I'll most likely head to a different Joann Fabric today, get the owls and then finish the top.  Maggie stated she would like the backing to be flannel so I'll look for a solid colored top sheet for that.  It's hard, however, to find solid colored flannel sheets, especially in the summer.  We'll see.
In other news...nothing.  Nothing exciting is happening.  I need to mow the yard...I'll try to get to the front today and make Jim do the back tonight.  I've had to do the lawn for the last 3 mows and although I actually like to mow, it's too much to do in one day and the back is way too long.  Plus, Jim needs to do some things around the house...he's been quite the slacker of late. 

Swimming with Muwee

Got an email survey from our new principal yesterday.  I'm sure it's tough to try and plan for a new year when you basically know no one so he sent one out to try and "get to know" the staff.  Most of the questions had to do with cooperation between teachers, planning and  parent involvement.  No biggie.  Should be an interesting year.

And that's all I've got. A couple pics of my girl. 

Home Again (For Now)

Home again.  We had so much fun at Maggie and Charlie's.  Thursday, we went to the Turner building in downtown Columbus to watch the fireworks.  They were great.  Traffic was nuts on the way home but no matter...it was worth it.  Friday, we hung out all day in the pool, drank, ate, played with Eva.  Saturday was more of the same.  I had so much fun with Eva and it was hard to say goodbye.  BUT!!!  I'll see her in a couple weeks when I go up on my way to PIB.  Can't wait. 

Funny story - when I got home from Columbus, some stories of the antics that the ladies in my neighborhood got up to while I was gone started trickling in.  They had gone out on Thursday night for drinks, dinner and then returned to the circle to hang.  I had been invited but obviously had to decline since I was out of town.  Apparently when the got home they went "hot tubbing" next door.  Upon seeing my bedroom light on with the TV going (Diane, my awesome friend and house sitter)  they thought I had lied and was really home.  From that point, they started throwing mulch at the window and calling obscene things up to me.  Poor Diane.  I don't know that she even heard any of this since she didn't mention it but the ladies here said they were rather loud.  Considering how drunk they supposedly were, I can only imagine.  Hee hee...hope I still have a house/Sami sitter.

Today's plans: I've walked Sami and had breakfast.  My neighbor Brandi and I might go walking around 10 AM if she has a babysitter...she'll text me.  Speaking of Brandi, she and her husband sold their house.  The couple, we think, is young with no kids (yet).  If it's who we found through Google, they look to be  28 and 32, married for 2 years, he's a financial advisor.  We'll see.  They better not be duds, that's all I have to say.

Okay, well, I need to do some menu planning and some research online for Maggie's duvet cover that I'm making for Eva.  The fabric will be the owls shown and I'll probably do it in large blocks on the front with accent colors of teal and lavender. The back will be a solid color, maybe the citron if I can find something.  We'll see.  I've never done a duvet so this could be interesting. 

K - I'm out...later!

ME-HAAAA!!!

I mean, could she get any cuter!?  I love that her lasso is a stethoscope!  I'm guessing Bussie is her bucking bronco (or f%&king bronco...not sure).

In other news, I got a mouse (not the rodent kind, the computer kind) and she works like a charm!  YAY!

In other other news - I've got Sami walked; I did a little recumbent bike earlier; headed to Meijer and am home.  I'll eat lunch in a bit and then do some packing, maybe some laying out, maybe some sewing.

And that's it.  Jim and I head to Columbus tomorrow.  He'll work a half day and we'll be on the road, hopefully by 2PM.  Home Sunday.  Can't wait and I'll take lots of pictures.  Later!

Computer Issues

My touch pad on my laptop is all kinds of crazy.  It's clicking and moving without my authorization!  Dumb ass touch pad.  I'll have to check my stuff from my purchase to see if I have coverage/warranty.  My computer isn't even two years old and I think I have a 2 year warranty from Costco but we'll see.  If that isn't the case, I'll try and buy a mouse and see if that fixes the problem.

In other news - I dreamt of Zekey last night.  He was running around the backyard with a black puppy pug or French bulldog.  He was having so much fun, darting back and forth, butt in the air, ready to pounce while the puppy ran in circles...exactly what he used to do.  I hope my dream was a glimpse of what he's been doing up in heaven.  Love and miss that boy.

Today I'll just be cleaning, I think.  I decided to put my cleaning off yesterday because I wanted to get other stuff done and I ran out of gumption. I'll do major cleaning here after my walk with Sami.  I'll take a break from bike riding...don't want to overdo it and I don't want to run into another wacked out raccoon.  Seriously, I had a baby raccoon mean mug me yesterday on the trail.  I'm pretty sure that thing was rabid.  It was just at the side of the trail and as I rode by - each way - it just stopped, and in slow motion, watched me ride by sort of squinting (and shooting laser beams out of its eyes?).  It was scary.  There were several dogs on the trail being walked yesterday...I hope they either scared it so that it ran off or I hope they ignored that mangy thing.

Okay - well, that's all I've got.  Best mosey so a certain mutt doesn't start mean mugging me. Happy...uh, Tuesday - Happy Tuesday!  Later!

Can't Believe It's Nearly July!

It's scaring me how fast this summer is already going.  UGH!  I need to remember to just enjoy every little minute and do as much as I can before it flies by.  At least I still have this weekend ahead of me (headed to Columbus and it's supposed to be beautiful) and then PIB in mid-July while Trip is there.

With that said, what are my plans today?  Well, I'll walk Sami in a bit and then I'd like to go for another bike ride.  I really enjoyed myself yesterday and want to do it again even with Jim at work.  I think today, I'll start my ride in Loveland and go to Kings Mills (yesterday we went from Kings Mills to Morrow).  That will be about a 10 mile ride, same as yesterday.  It was actually an easy ride - not too hilly and I didn't overdo it but it's great scenery and I still sweat my ass off.  From there, I'll come home, shower and then head to Costco.  Beyond that?  Not sure.  It isn't supposed to be very nice today so I'll probably just finish trimming up my quilting pieces for Maggie's quilt so that I can start sewing it all together.  Exciting, huh?

What else?  Nothing.  Another special board meeting is set for tomorrow at my school.  They'll just be approving the interim superintendent contract.  I hate that we'll have this interim dude because he really scares me with his views on collective bargaining but I'll keep trying to project positive thinking and hope that he doesn't mess up our district too badly.

Okay...and that's all I have.  Best mosey.  Happy Monday!

Test Ride!

Just a quickie...Jim and I will head down to the trail (Loveland Bike Trail) here in a bit to take a quick ride - to Morrow and back...it will be about a 10 mile or so ride.  I know that's not very far but Muir hasn't been on a bike for a long time and I don't want to overdo it...and get stuck.  Plus it's muggy as hell and there's no telling how many buckets of sweat I'll be down.  If all goes well, our next trek will take us to Lebanon and back and the from there...who knows.

Yesterday we fun, fun, fun.  Pretty much we spent the whole day in the pool playing volleyball.  My team won all games...of course!  After cake, Trip, Susan, J.J., Jim and I went to the Greyhound Tavern in KY...loved it.  Great, homey, comfort food.  YUM!

And that's about all I've got.  Best go make a quick breakfast, get dressed and go before the weather turns too muggy and thick.  Later.  Happy Sunday!

Happy Birthday MOM!!!

Happy birthday to my Mom!  Love you lots!  Hope your day is terrific!

Today is pool day at Raeburn.  Woot!  Can't wait to hang in the pool all day...too bad the weather isn't terrific but alas, who care...a day of relaxation...can't complain. 

Okay - I'm showered fed and walked.  Just need to get the pool bag together and get dressed.  Happy Saturday to all.  Later!

Samsung Snafus

My new TV...she's so pretty but she's a pain in the ass.  Jim and I managed to get the armoire taken apart and set up, the wall mount installed and the TV connected in just about 2 hours but it took until 10 minutes ago for me to get the cable remote to work.  Not to mention the settings on the TV were causing the picture to dim (some sort of eco saving bullshit) and I can't tell you how much that pissed me off last night.  I almost started crying from frustration! Additionally, I think I need different cables for connecting the cable, Wii and DVD so I'll be heading to Best Buy here in a bit to purchase those. I hope someone there can help me. I'd also like to get my Sony home theatre system set up to it but we'll see how savvy I want/can be without wanting to throw a hammer through the wall today. 

In terms of the armoire - I'm not thrilled with how it looks having just the bottom.  It just seems way too big (you can't tell from the picture).  I've decided to live with it for a while to see if I just need to adjust.  It may just need to be replaced with a console that has less depth.  We'll see.  (Diane, when you come stay with Sami, you can tell me what you think...be honest to, it won't hurt my feelings.)

And that's about all I've got.  Sami's walked, I'm fed; Jim's gone to work and so I think I'll get ready and head out.  Happy Friday!  Later!

New TV

This will be quick because I need to jump in the shower so that I can go buy a new TV and be home to lay out.  I'm so excited!  I'm getting the Samsung 60"...it's going to be ginormous but I think it will fit well in my family room since it's a rather large space.  We'll take the top of the armoir down and mount it on the wall.  I'm most likely going to get a mount that can move in all directions rather than one that just tilts up or down. I can't wait to get this thing bought and set up so that I can play with it! It comes with some cool apps and accessories! Sucks that I'll have to wait for Jimmy to come home to do that but alas, I'm not Wonder Woman...contrary to what you all think.

In other news - got my teaching schedule for next year and guess what?!  It was all messed up.  HH had me co-teaching English 11 with the one teacher I said wouldn't need a co-teacher.  Additionally, I told the knumskulls that co-teaching as well as teaching my 3 pull-out classes would only leave me with 2 study halls and that wasn't enough to properly serve my 17 kids.  I immediately emailed FW who emailed back and said that wasn't right, she called me and long story short - it's all fixed. Can you believe that?  Positive thinking...that's what I attribute it to. See, after emailing her, I just kept thinking to myself, "No big deal...if your schedule stays the same, you'll get through it just like you always do." And what do you know...flies, honey and all that jazz.

Okay well, I'm out...should be a good day:  New TV, sunny, Green Bean Delivery, TV and I'm getting a new TV! WOOT!  I'll take a picture when it's all mounted and set up! Cause I know you all just can't wait to see it! Later!

Someone Up There Must Be Listening (A Little At Least)

We have a new principal at my high school and THANK YOU JESUS it IS NOT our assistant principal. No offense to him but he can't do his own job...how the hell would he have been able to do this one?  The board voted 5-0 to hire the principal from Hamilton High School.  Hopefully he won't be a pain in my ass and will be a fair and supportive administrator.  Sure wish I knew someone from Hamilton to get some scoop on this guy but really, I'd rather figure out the type of person he is for myself rather than hear rumors. Rumors just cause fear and confusion.

Additionally, the board also approved to reinstate the interim superintendent that they rescinded last week.  Ridiculous but again, we will hopefully power through and he'll be gone in a year.  My biggest issues with this guy:  A) He is not healthy, has massive heart issues and the board has already put  a plan into place for when he cannot "serve" his position. Why would you hire someone that can't do his job?  B) This guy is as smarmy as they come...wears sun glasses ALL THE TIME and is a glad handing, baby-kissing schmoozer (and not the good kind...is there a good kind?) C) I love that they keep mentioning that he only took the job for a salary of $1...um...do you really think that he's not getting benefits?  Insurance?  You think this is costing the district ONLY $1?!  Dumb people D) He was very outspoken about his support of SB5 - the bill that threatened to break the unions and reduce teachers pay (basically). Not looking forward to this guy running the district and having to possibly negotiate a contract with this guy.  UGH! 

In addition, the board last night hired a Junior High principal (a woman from Mason). 

Now, enough school news.  What do I plan to do today?  Well, I need to make the breakfast burritos.  I didn't do it yesterday because I forgot to buy all the ingredients but I've adjusted my recipe so I'll just make them with what I have today.  I'll also mow the back yard...hopefully the buckets of rain that fell last night didn't leave the yard too swamped.  I doubt it as it was very dry.  And I'll probably do some quilting.  I need to do some pricing of TVs as well...planning on a new one for the family room...something large!  At least 50 inches...probably a 60 if I can find one affordable and with good reviews.

And that's it...best mosey...Sami is mean muggin me...I think she wants to go on a walk.  Later!

A Busy - What Day Is It? - Oh, Right...Tuesday

I'm so confused as to what day it is but I guess those are the "drawbacks" to being on vacation.  I guess I can also expect this to be the case until approximately August 16th. 

Can I just tell you how comfortable my bed is?  I love PIB but truly, the beds up there are probably as old as the hills and holy shizz does my back feel it after a week. (My bed needs replacing as well but it's only 10 years old where as the mattresses at PIB are at LEAST 25!)

So Jim and I had such a good time at PIB.  I won't bore you with all the details since most of what we did was posted on Facebook, however, the highlights were (in no particular order): My trip on the wave runner around the island; the trek to the top of the monument; hanging out with the neighbors; Eva!!!  Makes me sad to be away from the Bay and I hope that I can get up again in July when Trip is up there.  We'll see. 

Plans today?  Lots of "housekeeping" to do.  Actually, my house is nice and clean so I don't have to worry about that but my cupboards are empty.  I will head to the grocery today and then do a bunch of cooking.  I need to make more breakfast burritos for Jimmy and I'll also make some chicken burritos to freeze in the slow cooker so he'll have lunch to take. (I don't tend to have a ton of leftovers in the summer since I grill so much.) I'll also take Sami for a nice, long walk.  I'd like to do some biking too but we'll see.  The yard needs mowing...I may get to the front yard today but will probably wait to cut the back until tomorrow. 

God my life is exciting.

And that's all I've got.  Now it's time to sip so more of my delicious coffee.  Later

Away From Home

You know I'm not at home and I didn't go to the board meeting tonight so I don't know everything that happened but I am friends with some who are in precarious positions at school and it concerns me.  Why? Because, these so called troublemakers are on the outs (in terms of staff) because they've had to deal with some shit that the administration has dealt them and rather than sit back and eat shit they've decided to shovel it back at the "Powers that be".  Unfortunately, some have turned their backs on these good teachers rather than standing up for what is right simply because they are either afraid of the majority rule or because they are in fact unprofessional and can't separate friend from boss.  In fact, there should never be a time when the line between boss and friend is blurred but in my district, for the past eight years, that has been the case. From here on out, I hope this changes in my district   I want to look on my "leader" from here on out with the knowledge that he or she has my back no matter what...not because I'm his or her friend but because he or she is a professional and it's the right thing to do. But who am I kidding? This is education and everything is in fact political.

Last Minute Stuff

Sami walked - check
Breakfast eaten - check
Lawn mowed - check
Dry goods packed in car - check
Muir packed - check
Jim packed - check (took him an hour and a half just to pack...I was able to pack the car, pack my clothes and mow the back yard in the time it took him.  How did I end up with this guy!?)

Jim is now headed next door to complete his painting.  I'll sit and relax for a bit here before laying out.  We'll eat out tonight - Mexican...I've been jonesing hard - because I don't feel like cooking.  Tomorrow we'll get up around 4:00 (if last night is any indication of how I'll sleep, I'll probably be up by 3:00) and be on the road by 5:00 - hoping to catch the 9:00 ferry.  I plan on unpacking the car and heading immediately to Frosty's for breakfast and a delicious mimosa. 

Sami is starting to worry, it seems.  I keep telling her that she's going but she won't believe me until we're all in the car together.  I hope she has a good time.

And that's all I've got.  I may or may not post while at the Bay - I'm not taking my computer so it'll be short and sweet from my Kindle.  I'll definitely post on Facebook, however.  Oh, and the Egberts will be up on Wednesday!  Woot!

Oh, and happy Father's Day to my Dad and Richard! 

K - happy Saturday and safe travels to me.  Later!

Jobs

Cleaning - Check
Laundry - Check
Sami walked - Check
Sitting on my ass - check

I just need to get to the grocery to get a few forgotten items and head to the liquor store.  I think I'll do that after posting here, just to get it out of the way.  After that, I'll probably start organizing my packing. I'm going to be very thrifty in what I take to PIB this time around...I mean, what, besides a few pairs of comfy shorts, tank tops, bathing suits, a couple sweatshirts and a pair of flip flops are needed?  Oh, and my sneakers. There's laundry there so why go all cray cray?!  No one cares what I look like - although we all know I'm always looking my very best! I'll tell you, more than me, Jim is the over packing maniac.  He tries to pack all his baseball gloves and backgammon set and flashlight.  As though we don't have flashlights up there. And like we ever play backgammon.  Talking of cray cray!

In other news - how cute is a girl in her boots?! Man I love her. However, she's still talking about me stealing her binkie's.  If you're unaware, she must have had a dream where I took her pink binkie because every time she wakes up she talks about it. When we were in PIB last week, she kept saying to Maggie (while giving me the stink eye), "Remember when Muwee took my pink binkie?"  So...I went to Target yesterday and purchased TWO brand new beautiful binkie's for that little liar...I mean that imaginative little dreamer.  Hee hee.

Okay, well - guess I should go purchase the liquor.  I'll get Jimmy a froo froo flavor and some spiced rum.  YUMMY!  May have to purchase an extra bottle for home. 

Happy Friday the 13th...ooh...scary.  Later!

Taking It Slow

My book is so good!  I'm trying to take it slow so that I don't rush through my 800 and some pages and miss something. Of course I'll read it over again and listen to it (the reader of these books is amazing) but for now, I just need to take it slow and enjoy every word. 

So today will be busy, busy, busy.  I'll motivate here in a bit to get Sami walked so that I can do my major shops.  I need to go to Target, Costco and Kroger.  I'll also do all my meat prep for PIB - making burgers, marinating - as well as gathering all groceries for packing.  I need to make smoothie bags as well and get laundry done.  Cleaning will most likely take place tomorrow unless I get my "jobs" done in a timely manner today and still feel motivated.  Not sure that will happen.

In back news:  I've been having weird back issues.  To preface, I never have back issues.  The only time I've ever had a sore back was from a new workout or working in the yard (splitting wood).  Recently, however, I've had this weird pain...an ache really and it's very isolated...only in one specific spot, right on my spine.  Originally it was mid-way down but yesterday, the base of my back hurt.  It isn't anything that is debilitating, doesn't keep me from walking or doing anything, but just sort of aches when I arch and press on it.  We'll see how long this keeps up.  Maybe I just need a new mattress...which I do...just one more thing to add to the list.

Lets see...what am I going to have for dinner tonight?  UGH!  I'll probably just grill something...maybe pork. 

OMG!  Is it Thursday!?  HOT DAMN!!!  My Green Bean Delivery comes today!  I'm so excited!  I know you all must be too since I've been talking and talking about it!  I changed my order up a bit.  I'm getting potatoes, corn, green beans, lettuce, a cucumber, an onion, squash, a tomato, strawberries, grapes, raspberries, and bananas. And my bin is only $20 today since I'm a new customer and used a coupon code. Woot!  Most of these things will go to PIB with me.  It's going to be like Christmas today! 

K - well, I'd best mosey.  Later!

Moist

I hate that word...truly...it just puts disgusting things in my mind.  However, there is no better word to describe the air surrounding this city currently.  It's NASTY humid and damp and there isn't a break in our future until about Friday.  UGH!  Can I just say I can't WAIT to get to PIB!?  My hope is that A) it's beautiful while there and B) we have windy days. 

Speaking of words people hate, I did a little "research" on the most hated/annoying words and according to the Huffington Post, they are:

1. Literally (I kind of get that because people don't use it correctly.  For instance:  I literally DIED when I saw the news...and yet here I am talking to you...huh, maybe I don't have a clear understanding of what literally means.  Literally, however, is a great word when you use it with an English accent.  Try it...cause that won't get annoying to others.)
2. Moist (How did this only make #2?  Why not number 1?)
3. Panties (I think that word might be about #3 on my favorite words.  What's wrong with panties?  For example: Jim, don't get your panties in a bunch.)
4. Foodie (Pretentious...yeah, I get it)
5. Alright. (I get this...kind of...as an English major.  See, I was always taught that this wasn't a word but somehow, it has become part of the vernacular of the American English language.)
6. Curate (huh?  Who uses the word "curate"...oh, wait, apparently Twitter people - Tweeters - use this word...since I don't tweet or have anything to do with museums, okay).
7. Zeitgeist (again - pretentious...people who use it use it to sound smart, which by the way doesn't make you sound smart).
8. Impactful (who cares?)
9. Paradigm (I actually like this word because many people don't know how to pronounce it).

And here are some words that are often pronounced wrong that drive me crazy:

1. Ec-cetera instead of Etcetera!  ARG!!! (HH does this but YAY, he's gone, won't have to hear that anymore).
2. Supposbly - um, how do people NOT know that's wrong?!
3. Irregardless (Really!?  One of our guidance counselors says this...an educator! UGH!)
4. Brang - BRANG ISN'T A WORD!!!

Many more I'm sure but my fingers are tired now. 

K - I best mosey and do something...maybe sew.  Later!

Written In My Heart's Own Blood

It's rare that a new book comes out that has me giddy.  Harry Potter was one such example and the Outlander series is the other.  The eighth book of the latter by Diana Gabaldon has been released today and should be in my mailbox at some point.  I can't WAIT!!!  It makes me so happy.  Just under 900 pages I can't tell you how happy I am.  I wish it were longer as it takes her years to write these tomes but alas, I'll just be happy with what I'm given. 

BTW - I just finished the latest Sue Monk Kidd novel (she wrote Secret Life of Bees) and it was very good. I'll update my book blog after I finish this.  Interestingly her book - The Invention of Wings - is based on real people.  I highly recommend.

I've begun my prep work for PIB.  Yesterday I made my menu for the week as well as started my list for the grocery.  I'll do my best to do all prep work beforehand (making burgers and freezing, marinating meat) so that I won't have to take as much in terms of groceries.  I'll do my major shop on Thursday I believe (Costco and Kroger) and clean and do laundry throughout this week.

Oh, bonus: Maggie, Charlie and Eva will join us either Wednesday or Thursday and stay for the weekend.  YAY!

Lets see...what else...it's raining.  I won't get my full workout in today with Sami but I'll get on my treadmill or recumbent bike.  Exciting, huh? 

And that's about all I've got.  I guess I'll get up and start my day.  Later!

My First Bike Ride

I've been quite productive already today and am ready for the rest of my Sunday to be lazy relaxed. I got up way too early for my liking (6:30), made breakfast (sipped a mimosa), walked Sami and then took my new bike for a spin.  I only went about 4 miles but for this out of shape girl (walking every day doesn't prepare a body for longevity on a bike) that's a good start.  If I walk Sami her two miles every day and then do a short ride on my bike, that's pretty good, right? 

Last night didn't quite end up like we had planned.  Most of the neighbors pussed out on our cookout so Jim and I just went next door to eat.  We all chit chatted for a bit  and then forced coerced our other neighbors to bring their meal over and eat with us. They're going through a bit of "stuff" and needed to just relax and take a break from the stresses of their lives. 

Jim had worked all day long and was exhausted so we came home and went to bed around 8:30.  Apparently, after we left, there was some drama with the contractors that are retiling the neighbors bathroom and this morning, the cops are here taking a report.  These contractors basically started work on the bathroom without a contract and without giving a solid figure for the cost.  They are trying to charge them $1700 just to tear the old tile out.  They're saying that it was for 4 guys working 26 hours.  First of all, they only tore our on Friday so how was that 26 hours and secondly, 4 guys wouldn't even fit in that bathroom.  Additionally, when I was out mowing the lawn on Friday, two guys were standing in the driveway yuckin' it up for the whole time.  Was that part of the 26 hours? Should be interesting to see where this all goes.  The contractors were told by my neighbor to get their equipment out of their garage by 9:00 this morning or it would go out to the curb.  Being Sunday and garbage night, the pickers will pick that crap up in a hot minute. 

And that's about all I've got.  I'm currently watching the French open.  Go Nadal.  K - happy Sunday...later!

Mom's Gone

Mom and Richard left early...before 8:00 AM. I know they were anxious to get home and get Baxter.  We had a nice time last night...dinner, talking, TV watching and then bed. And there may have been a glass or three or five of wine.

This morning I've walked Sami and eaten breakfast.  Jimmy was up and next door painting around 7:00.  They're listing the house on Monday so he's in a mad rush to get the front painted where they repaneled the chimney...it was in disrepair from birds and raccoons.

After typing this, I'll do a quick clean - vacuuming - and start laundry.  Then it will be time to mow the back yard.  I got the front yesterday but the back was still too wet.  It might still be a bit too damp but it's soooo long I can't wait anymore. After that I'll probably read, lay out and chill.

Tonight was the night that all the neighbors were supposed to go to the Lager House but of course, none could pull it together to make it happen.  Instead, we'll do a cook out in the circle.  That's fine with me especially since I'm sure Jim will be EXHAUSTED after working all day in the sun. I'll do metts and brats and make a tomato, mozzarella, basil salad.  Maybe some potatoes...who knows. 

And that's all I've got.  Guess I should do a quick clean and then get my mow on.  Later!

UPDATE:  Interesting stuff happening at my school.  They've recently posted a new board agenda for a special board meeting set for June 10th to A) discuss rescinding the appointment of the interim superintendent and B) to put the principal from the JH in as assistant superintendent.  Fingers crossed that this all has a good outcome. 

Home Feels Good

I miss the Bay (it was so beautiful when we left which always makes it a little harder) but my bed is always nice too.  I felt like I hadn't slept in it in forever and I slept like a dream last night.

I arrived home yesterday around 4:00 and immediately changed so that I could take Sami for a nice romp.  She only got a mile in but I promised that today would be her full 2 miles.  After that I did some unpacking, dinner prep and then settled in with a beer before Jimmy got home.  We had a quick dinner and then he headed next door to do some painting.  I took a nice hot bath and read my book (reading Sue Monk Kidd's Invention of Wings and it is SOOO good!) before falling asleep. 

My plans today: My neighbor sold me her bike (she bought a new one and was getting rid of her in-perfect-condition Schwinn) so I need to go out to get a bike helmet. I'm excited to head down to the trail and ride.  I'm thinking a helmet with cat or dog ears on it like the little girl next door has...or maybe a tank on the top like the little boy two doors down.  I wonder if they have adult helmets with "stuff" on it.  We'll see.  Maybe I'd be better off with a helmet that has cup holders and a straw.  If not I bet Jim could fashion one for me.  Anyway - Mom and Richard should be here mid-afternoon.  They're just doing a quick stop over on their way home from Michigan.  We'll have dinner tonight of pork tenderloin, potatoes and broccoli.  I need to go to the grocery too...and that's about it.  Oh, and mow the lawn (the back at least if it isn't too soggy...apparently we got a lot of rain while I was gone).

EXCITING:  I placed my first order for my Green Bean Delivery (produce and veggies delivered to your door every week.  Here's my first order:

1 tomato
1 pound grapes
1 pound strawberries
1 potato
1 head of red leaf lettuce
1 onion, Vidalia
6 oz. raspberries
1 pound green beans
1 green and yellow squash
2 pluots (an aprilum)
4 nectarines

I'm excited and I still might do a couple substitutes before Monday (I have until then to change my order).

Okay well, that's all I've got for now.  I have a lot to do before Mom and Richard get here so I better get cracking...later!  Happy Friday!

Sunday With Mom and Richard

Mom and Richard got here yesterday around 5:30.  We sat and talked for a bit, I made dinner and then we sat and talked a bit more.  Jim was wiped out from painting in the sun all day and hit the hay around 8:30.  (He's already back at it...hard worker.) The rest of us were in bed by 10. 

This morning we all were up by about 6:30. I made Jim and I breakfast and then walked Sami.  Mom made breakfast for herself and Richard and she's now getting ready.  They will leave for Madison's party around 11:30 or so...Jim and I will head over around 1:30.  Not sure how long we'll stay, probably not as long as Mom and Richard. 

I need to get all my packing done for PIB...I'll do that in a bit...and then I'll shower.

And that's about it.  And how cut is Eva with her friend, strawberry picking and eating her first ice cream cone!?

K - I'm out...later!

And Now Then End Is Near

Actually, the end is here.  Today marks my LAST DAY OF SCHOOL for the year!  So happy and excited and I'm sure until I'm allowed to check out, I'll be bored silly.  Every year it's a crap shoot as to when those of us who didn't attend graduation and baccalaureate are able to check out.  Technically, we're supposed to stay a full day (or until noon?) but last year I think we were out of there by 10:00.  We'll see.  I'm guessing that with HH leaving, he might not give a shit.

In dinner news: Last night I made "crash hot potatoes".  If you've never had/made these, you MUST!  Holy shizz were they delicious and crunchy and good.  So easy too.  I will be making them as a side for my meal at PIB next week.  And if you're interested, here's a link.

Lets see...in other news...nothing.  I've got nothing. I'm excited to be able to sleep in for days in a row.  It'll probably take some time to train Sami, however.  She stood on top of me today at about 4:35...20 minutes before my alarm went off.  When I didn't stir, or at least tried not to, she laid her whole body across mine and waited.  I love her. 

K - well, I'm out.  Got lots to do when I get home today.  Clean, clean, clean...prepare my chicken burgers for PIB; laundry; walk Sami; pack.  Drink.  Later!

Can I Get A WOOT WOOT!?

I can't believe the last day (with kids) has arrived! This year really did fly by.  I'm hoping my summer doesn't!

So today is going to be a VERY long day because I'll have my history students for about 2 1/2 hours. Most of them I'm fine with but there's one kid who is annoying, obnoxious and immature. I'll show a movie after the exam so hopefully that will keep them occupied and off my nerves.

 

In other news:  I made breakfast burritos yesterday to freeze so that Jimmy would have something to whip up next week while I'm gone.  I have to say, they are very delicious.  And they were very easy.  I've pinned them for anyone who is interested.  It made about 12 of the 8 inch (the smaller) burritos.  I'll definitely be doing that again. 

 

Um...lets see...I've got nothing else. Best mosey as I have to get gas. 

 

Oh!!!  I forgot!!! Eva went pee pee on the potty last night!  YAY!!!  Maggie has been so great and patient with Eva in this; not forcing her and knowing that that will only cause mayhem.  So proud of them both.  Now if I could only get Jim to do the same thing!  Hee hee.

 

K - now I'm out. 

I Choose...

...to have a positive attitude; to believe that even with all the turmoil and change occurring in our district, we will persevere and return to normal with someone better at the helm. Did I mention that our principal is resigning for a job in a neighboring district?  Yup. In one way, I understand his want to leave:  He's got a lot of haters out there.  But, as much as he says he loves the district and that it isn't about a paycheck, the person who put HH in this position is HH.  He can go on and on about himself and his good intentions but he alienated a lot of people and people talk. I understand his fear of the new board but hasn't HH heard the saying about catching more flies with honey?  You can't bash the board publicly and not expect people to share.  Believe me, I've said it before, I'm not bitter about HH and the shit that I've experienced with him but that doesn't mean I don't remember it.  It doesn't mean that I can't remember a time, not so long ago, that I was saying to myself "hold on, you will last longer than this administration".  And that time has come.  And I'm hopeful that the next person running the school will NOT gather favorites and simply treat everyone equally.

So...what else?  Hmm...nothing really.  I've got a ton of shit to do in preparation for my PIB trip Monday.  I'm hopeful I'll be able to get it all done on Saturday (Mom, what time do you think you'll arrive?):  Cleaning, making my meal to take up; packing. Sunday will be out for all that because my Mom and Richard will be here and we'll be whooping it up with Madison at her graduation party.  I'll go to Costco today after school and then grocery shop tomorrow.  Gotta make Jimmy some breakfast burritos for when I'm gone and make sure he has dinners.

Today at school should be good and boring.  I can't remember what exam is given but it's not one of mine so I'll do some work for my year next year.  Yesterday we rearranged our room which took a good chunk of time.  Lisa and I now have window access...she didn't this year.

Okay well, I best mosey.  Gotta go continue living the dream.  Later!

Senseless

If you've been following the Brogan Dulle story here in the Cincy area (it made national headlines as well...21-year old UC student went missing more than a week ago after leaving his own apartment at 3 a.m. to retrace steps to recover a lost cellphone), you've probably also heard that his body was recovered next door to his own apartment and by the looks of it, he hanged himself. (It was in a building that was abandoned and being rehabbed.) I feel so bad for his family (his mother was a graduate of St. Ursula) but I just don't understand it.  I don't understand suicide but more than that, I don't understand doing it so that no one can find you. What could have been going through that man's head to commit such an act in such a way.  So sad and senseless and I'm sure we'll never understand, if it was indeed a suicide, why that was the only solution to Brogan Dulle. 

In other news, I'm in the last 4 days of my school year and I can't tell you how happy I am. After such a nice weekend, it's hard for me to keep motivated through the rest of my time but I just keep thinking, "This time next week I'll be in PIB!" Last night, Jim and I cooked dinner as did two of our neighbors and then hauled everything outside to eat together in the circle. A good, relaxing wrap up for the weekend. 

Today, I give my LA classes their exams and beyond that, we'll watch Frozen.  YAY!  I get my hair done tomorrow...can't wait for that as my roots are horrible.  Wednesday I'll go to Costco and get my shop on...that's about it.

K - well, I best mosey.  Later!

 

A Little Lax

Sorry I haven't posted...busy busy busy.  Doing what you ask?  Well, Saturday, the neighbors had a yard sale and, last minute, we joined in.  I managed to get rid of several things in the basement and made about $30.  Not bad.  Everything we had left over we boxed up and one of the neighbors hauled it to Goodwill.  Additionally, I managed to get to Home Depot to purchase all my flowers.  After the yard sale was over I planted everything. 

Yesterday, Sunday, I cleaned the house while Jim cleaned the neighbors exterior in preparation for painting it.  I then mowed the front and back yard and then laid out.  We had a cook out with the neighbors in the island last night, which was a lot of fun and I was up too late and may have had a tad too much to drink.  Luckily though, I'm not hung over. 

Today, I don't have a thing planned.  I've already walked Sami and will probably lay out for a bit, if the clouds stay gone but other than that...nothing.  Jim and I tossed around the idea of going to the Taste of Cincinnati but I'd rather stay home.  Jim needs to get crackin' on the neighbors house too...I do believe they plan on listing it this week.  Bummer...hate to lose good neighbors. 

K - well, I think I'll go out and sit on the deck...read a bit and drink a mimosa.  Happy Memorial Day...later!

My Next Pup...

...might just have to be a Shihzpoo!  (Shih Tzu/poodle mix).  Could this pup be any cuter?!  Well, not in comparison to Sami...there's no dog cuter than her! (She's reading over my shoulder and giving me the stink eye).

And this guy?  Is that a human with fur on his face?!  So weird, don't you think!?

In other news:  Exams start today!  A week from today will be my LAST DAY!  I'm so happy! 

Oh, and to celebrate...I have a cold.  Can you believe that shit!?  I blame Lisa...at school.  When I said yesterday, "I feel like I'm getting a sore throat" she answered with, "I had that feeling Monday."  Hmm...sounds like someone sabotaged me.  Well, at least it's happening now rather than when I go up to the Bay!  

How cute is a girl with her dog! I showed this to Jim and he said, that poor dog.  Puh-leeze!  He deserves someone doing to him what he's constantly doing to others.  And who wouldn't want that sweet girl hanging all over them!? Jim's dumb.  Hey Jim!?  Remember when you were stupid...like a minute ago!?  Hee hee.

So, the two exams today are both periods that I have study hall so hopefully (other than a kid coming to take a math exam with me) I won't have many kids pestering me...hee hee.  Hopefully, no one will show from my study halls. 

Okay well, that's all I've got.  Happy it's Friday!  Weekend plans:  relaxing, buying and planting my flowers and it's supposed to be beautiful so maybe some laying out.  Jim will be painting the house next door all weekend, I believe. 

K - I'm out.  Ooh, Jimmy Johns for lunch today!  Yum!  Later!

Birthday Celebration

So wish I could have been there to share cake and the celebration!  How cute is her cake!?  Maggie, I request you make the same for me on my birthday next year.  Only my candles should obviously say "30". 

In other news - I talked to my friend from the neighboring school district where HH has applied for the principal's position.  She stated that he has a very good chance of getting the job.  She thinks that because they have so many women in administrative positions at the high school she isn't sure they would put another woman at the helm. She had a lot of information about him already (things I wasn't going to share).  She told me she'd keep me informed.  She also told me lots about what her district is going through regarding the new teacher evaluation system and how effed up it is.  I do not look forward to that.

Okay so this has been the longest week in history and we still have today and Friday to get through.  Thankfully though, today is the LAST real instructional day at school FOR THE YEAR!  YAY!  YIPPEE!  YAHOO!  And HOT DOG!!! 

Okay - well, I'm running a bit behind but I don't care because today is the LAST real instructional day at school FOR THE YEAR!!!  YAY!  YIPPEE!  YAHOO!

Happy Thursday!  Later!

Happy Birthday To My Baby Girl!!!!

 Three years ago, my life started.  Seriously...I can't remember a time without my sweet baby girl. I may not be her momma but I love that girl like she's my own. I love to see her reach milestones and turn into such a funny, beautiful and smart girl. I can't wait to spend the rest of my life watching her grow up.  People always say they don't want their kids to grow up but watching Eva become a little person is something I'd never want to give up. I wish I could be with her today to give her a hug and kiss but in two weeks, I'll be with her, days in a row at PIB and I'll kiss her and hug on her any time I want. Can't wait.

A shout out too to Maggie and Charlie for being such great parents.  You are doing such an amazing job guiding this little girl through the world.  I can't think of a luckier person! 

And how cute is Eva with the birthday stash she got from her Nana!!!  She loves Minnie Mouse (her hat) but more than that she loves her Nana!

(BTW - I didn't forget to post this, this morning but I didn't want to put my Happy Birthday in the same post with my downer of a post).

HAPPY BIRTHDAY GIRL!!!  LOVE YOU!!!

YAWWWWNNN!!!

Attending our school board meeting last night meant that it was quite the long night for me.  I'm not used to going to sleep at 10:30 and getting up at 5:00.  It was worth it, however, to get a chance to hear and see, first hand, the state of my district.  And I have to say, I'm very scared about where we're headed.  The underhanded, shady shenanigans that certain board members are pulling could very well leave my district in chaos.  It's already happened that certain administrators have decided to skedaddle (having seen the writing on the wall) and I fear there will be more of a mass exodus if this board isn't made to hear and follow the demands of their community members. Scary to think that board members, elected by the people to serve kids have such a personal and political agenda.  It doesn't make sense and I hope to God that the attempts to oust certain members will be successful. Time will tell.

In other news - have I mentioned I'm tired?  I wish it could be "movie" day at school but there's exam prep work to do. Time will go faster if I'm up and about, however, learning the kids.  Plus, it's early release.

Oh, I met the new sped coordinator for our district.  She seems nice and I've heard good things about her.  Not sure, after the board meeting last night, that she's going to stay (kidding) after hearing all she did.  She's a parent in the district too so she has more to worry about than just the inner workings of the district. 

Okay so I'd best mosey.  Later!

So Sick Of Haters!

Can I just say that I'm so sick of people who feel it necessary to post shit on FB regarding the President and our country!?  This morning I awoke to a picture that said, "United States of America: 1776-2009 Rest In Peace".  My first reaction was, "Great, when are you moving out of this country that you hate so much?  More room for the rest of us!" But I'm not one to be obnoxious on FB like other people. I bet there's a statistic out there that compares the number of Republican babies who whine and cry about Obama and Democrats to those Democrats who whine and cry about Republicans and you can bet the latter is a great deal higher.  It just puts me in a foul mood. 

Okay, now that I've got that off my chest.  Jim stained the deck last night.  YAY!  I've only wanted that done for a year now.  (Thanks Jimmy!) He was out doing his "job" until after 9:00.  I had fallen asleep and awoke to the stench of stain fumes...not pleasant when you're trying to catch some zzzzs.

School news:  Boring.  I've been working on stuff for next year...reading and creating chapter questions for Watership Down.  Same with Macbeth. 

And that's about it.  Tonight I'll be coming home for a short walk with Sami, eating a quick early dinner and then heading back up to school for the Board meeting.  Scary the shit that's happening in our district of late and the teachers, parents and community need to make their presence known so this board doesn't railroad our schools like they did in Springboro.  Meeting starts at 6:30 but I'll get there by, latest 6:00 to ensure I get parking and somewhere to at least stand. 

Okay well, I'm out.  Happy Tuesday.  Later!

Countdown!

Two weeks from today, I'll be heading to Columbus and then on to PIB!  Yippee!  Yahoo! 

I can't believe that this is the last Monday of the year!  We have four more days of regular classes (other than exam review, I have no other plans...except some Frozen watching - Kim? - and prep game playing).  Friday starts exams...I'll be wearing jeans for the rest of the year starting then...I'm such a rebel!

In other news - my friend from a neighboring school where HH has applied and interviewed for their principal's position contacted me for scoop about him.  He was actually VP at her school before coming to my school but its been several years so...she wants to hear recent news.  I haven't talked to her yet but I gave her my number and told her to call.  I'll tell her the straight poop without including any of the gossip...what's the point of that?  Seems he's pretty high in the running for that position as we had heard.  I think it's funny that he "lectured" the staff at the last staff meeting saying that if he planned on leaving, he would tell us and to stop gossiping about stuff we're hearing.  He's so intimidated by the board and his ex I think that he's running scared.  Too bad since he would be an advocate for the teachers.  Not surprised though...he's always seemed like a coward to me.

Okay - well, enough name calling.  I got to boogie since I need to stop at the store on my way in today...need lunch.  Later!  Happy Monday. 

Banquet

Had a good time at the banquet last night.  Good to hang out with people I normally don't socialize with.  Also managed to win a basket in the silent auction.  It caught my eye because of the two bottles of wine sticking out of it.  It also had 4 gift cards...bonus!  After eating (I had ribs and chicken although I only ate my ribs) and was home just before 9:00.  Jim was happy that I brought my leftovers home especially since he had a bowl of cereal for dinner.  If I'm not there to cook, that boy just doesn't eat right. Anyway - I'll definitely go to the banquet again...totally worth the $15. 

Not sure what the day has ahead.  Jim's going to head out in a bit to go shopping for shoes.  I don't plan on joining him because I want to stick around here and walk Sami...clean a bit...try and get warm.  It's freaking freezing this morning...about 40 degrees and I'm determined NOT to turn on the heat.  After that - who knows.  I had planned on going out for dinner tonight but since we had Chipotle Thursday and I went out last night, I think I'll make a nice meal for my Jimmy. 

Forgot to post this the other day.  Eva is turning into quite the artiste!  Most of her paintings resemble bouquets of flowers.  Maggie framed one and gave it to Charlie for Valentine's Day...would love to do the same. 

And that's about all I've got.  The sun is peeking out so I think I'll get my shit together and walk my girl. 

Happy Saturday...later!

A Bit Of A Flip-Flop

I hate to be a flip-flopper but as usual - things are not as they seem.

Yesterday - after much speculation, stories and gossip spreading around the building, I went and spoke with a person that I trust to give me the real poop.  Among many things it seems that the collection of signatures being gathered was more about standing strong as a building for our administration against two specific board members out to break the union/district apart.  Seems the goal of these two (and possibly 3) board members is to oust most of the administration from the district so they can pack it with administrators that will be on their side of the tea cup. It leaves me in a bit of a quandary because knowing this, I would rather stand with a united staff than not.  I don't want to seem that I support this vicious and hurtful board than not who spread lies and gossip. I would rather do what I can to end the negativity and show the community that we as a staff stand strong for their kids.

There's so much more to this whole thing but not enough time to type it up.  Regardless though, as a proud union member, I plan on doing all I can to keep my district from falling into the hands of people who think it would be best run like a business.  I fear for my district and the teachers and I guess at this point, if we "younger" teachers don't start getting involved, we won't have room to bitch when we've had our pay cut 20%.  UGH!

K - happy Friday...Banquet tonight...YAY!  Date night with Diane!