Yummy Dessert

Yesterday was SO productive! I went to Aldi and finally managed to get some chicken. They not only had fresh but frozen as well. I got some of each. They were pretty well stocked there which made me so happy. The only things on my list that they didn't have was blue cheese and yeast. It was really good to get out of the house too, if only to drive to Aldi and come home. I will say that it's like a ghost town on the roads. So weird to see downtown Loveland completely empty.

When I got home yesterday I made a delicious dessert! Weight Watchers Skinny Lemon Brownies. (They're not really brownies but whatever.) I tweaked the recipe a little. It calls for a box of lemon cake mix, a can of diet 7-Up (I didn't have any so used diet ginger ale) and a container of Cool Whip. I actually made some sugar free instant vanilla pudding and folded in the Cool Whip and topped the cake with that. Then I served it up with some strawberries. So good! I might have to go bury my face in the cake right now.

I took Scout for a later afternoon walk yesterday and it was hilarious how many people were out and about...walking, running, biking. It was actually crowded on our walk!

Yesterday evening, we had a little covid, socially distant get together with the neighbors and let me tell you it was much needed. I didn't realize how much I missed social interaction with people other than my husband.  I think for all of us, it was a chance to just reset and decompress and although we just sat in the driveway and street and drank a couple beers it was all I needed to give me that little boost. I can't imagine that this will be something that we'll have to deal with until May but if it is, yesterday showed me I can do it! With a little help from my friends.

Speaking of beer: I loves me some Earth Cookie from Little Miami Brewing Company. When we got take out from there a couple days ago, Jim filled my growler with Earth Cookie and it's so delicious! It's a brown ale...loves me a brown ale! I have a bit left...maybe for a beer tonight? I mean, it won't last long in the growler so I'd better drink it, right?

My plans for today: I did my yoga and ate breakfast. I'll clean here in a bit while Jim works out in the yard. It's going to be another beautiful day so I'd like to spend it outside. I might take a bike ride. Correction - I'll be taking a bike ride once the temps rise a bit. Other than that, who knows. Maybe a little walk with Scoutie...it just makes him so happy and might as well while the weather's nice, right?

Dinner tonight will be pork chops, probably on the grill. Something easy that won't leave leftovers because I have WAY too many leftovers.

Okay - well, happy Thursday! Stay healthy! Later!

Hey! It's Going To Be A Lovely Day!

The rain has moved out and the skies are clearing and we are supposed to have a lovely day in the 60s...so that's something!

My meeting yesterday wasn't bad. That's something else! Except for the colleague with two kids who were playing like they normally would in the background and of course (loudest colleague in my department) didn't know enough to mute her freaking microphone. She's so unaware...I just don't get that about people.

I have another meeting (two actually) today; one at 9:00 and one at 10:00. Not really sure why we're having the 10:00 one but whatevs. I'll sit there muted and drink my coffee.

I got my Curtis Stone air fryer yesterday! I made my carrot fries in it and they were yummy. The difference I noticed with the air fryer v. the oven was they cripsed up much better. I used it today for toast and that was nice too! It's a taller appliance than my previous toaster oven but it's not as wide so it takes up less counter space, which is a plus! I hate having a ton of shit on my counters but some things are necessary. My toaster oven/air fryer and coffee maker are necessaries.

My plans for the day: I've done my yoga and eaten breakfast. After my meetings, I was thinking about going to Aldi to see if I can get chicken (still can't find any). I also need shrimp and some other things. We'll see. I may take a lovely bike ride today when it warms up rather than doing my elliptical...maybe walk the dogs a bit. We'll see.

Bought some exercise bands. (Seen left) They're pretty cool and allow for lots of different moves. I'll be excited to get those and do some cool workouts. I was getting bored with my usual arm stuff.

Not sure what Jim's plans are. Yesterday he prepped the deck (washed and sanded) for treating.

And that's about all I've got. Guess I'll go make another cup of coffee and get my area ready for my meetings. My dogs are acting like assholes (loose dogs) so that will have to stop before my meetings start. Ugh!

K - happy Wednesday! Later!

Progress

I actually hunkered down yesterday (for 6 hours) with my computer and managed to get some shit done for the potential April 6th online school launch. I got all my history stuff done and now just need to figure out how to do my science. For Language Arts, the kids will take their final test for The Help. After that, I'll most likely have a weekly expectation of reading comprehensions, a writing activity and then some editing activities. Most of this stuff is done and won't take much effort on my part. Plus it will count for most goals for my kids IEPs. Today I'll work on science stuff but I don't plan on being in front of my computer for 6 hours like yesterday.

The pups were NOT happy about me working yesterday. Boo kept getting up and trying to lick my face and sit on the computer. He did NOT like having to share my attention with the laptop. Get used to it little boy! However, they didn't get a walk yesterday so maybe today, after I walk them, they'll be a little more cooperative. We'll see.

Now, I just need to say this to everyone: Let's all give each other a little break about what precautions we need to take, individually, during this time. I keep seeing people on FB bitching about people not showing up to work because they feel the need to self-quarantine. I mean come on! Most of us (myself included) have people close to us (maybe even living with us) who are considered moderate or high risk. If I were required to go to work right now I'm not sure I would be able to because the risk it would be to Jimmy.  Let's all give each other a little leeway since none of us know what's going to happen here. I mean, how would you feel if you carried this virus home to a high risk loved one when you could have avoided exposure. I know some people have to work...I'm not talking about them...I'm talking about people who are given that option and take it for the health of their loved ones. Believe me, after a week plus at home, I'd MUCH rather be at work than holed up here trying to recreate the wheel. A little grace and tolerance is what we all need to practice right now. Judge not lest you be judged.

Yup...I just quoted the bible! These are unprecedented times, for sure.

Okay I'm going to go walk my boy and get his ass worn out since he's so ornery right now! He's already stolen Jim's sock, my ponytail holders and a foil wrapper out of the trash this morning. He's a turkey.

K - happy Tuesday! Hamburgers/turkey burgers tonight. OOH! And my  new Curtis Stone Air Fryer (plus a shit ton other functions) is showing up today! Can't wait!

Brace Yourselves...I'm Going To Do A Little Bitching

So I get it...things are crazy and up in the air and a little stressful and we're all trying to figure it out but could people just sit back and chill for a minute!? Cause' your stressing my ass out! Mainly I'm talking about work. I can't tell you how many fucking emails I've gotten telling me all the shit I have to do. For a while there last week, I was getting about 5 emails a day from 5 different people with unnecessary bullshit that I didn't give a shit about! I almost sent an email out telling these people that they needed to just STOP! Unless there was something absolutely essential for me to know/do, DON'T FUCKING EMAIL ME! Cause you're causing more stress than is required here. And I get it...I'm in special ed and we need to serve our kids but people just need to relax because these are weird and unusual circumstances and all this crap your laying at my feet about all the shit I'm going to have to do is making me want to take the rest of the year in sick days and just say eff you...I'm not doing it.

And here's the other thing that's fucking bullshit: I teach 3 subjects (and 4 classes) which means I'm going to have to work to create assignments and lessons for those classes as well as serve my caseload. But those who co-teach in my department? They apparently will have no co-teaching responsibilities. Um...can I just say that's fucking stupid! How about then, those teachers who co-teach can then help me with my shit!

I'll tell you this - I'm not going to beat myself up and stress myself out trying to get all this shit done. I'll do what I can but if I can't get to logging the minutes I've served my kids for the week by "end of day Friday" someone can just kiss my ass. Thankfully I only have one IEP left to write for the year which is set for April 7th. However, I also have a scholarship IEP I'm supposed to do by 4/26. This, I think is bullshit! I think FW (you remember her, right? She's the former sped department head from the high school who was moved into an administrative position and I'm pretty sure she doesn't do shit!), she should have to take over and write this IEP. They're putting so much shit on our shoulders and they don't have near the shit we have. So annoying.

Anyway - sorry for the bitching but I'm just so sick of being told all the crap I have to do and how fucking important it is and how it can't be stressed enough that we must SERVE OUR KIDS and make sure they're getting their minutes and blah blah blah blah blah. Settle the fuck down people! Breathe! These are unusual circumstances that NO ONE has ever had to deal with before. These kids aren't going to get served as their IEP says...they just aren't. Deal with it and get off my fucking back!

K - I'm going to go exercise and try and chill out. On a good note, at least I was able to access all my files at work so I can actually give my kids lessons in the coming weeks. That's good.

Happy Monday. Try not to piss me off people! Later!

The Good Thing Is...

1. Jim's still alive! It was a near thing yesterday (and this morning). He may not be tomorrow if he continues to annoy me, however. I'll keep you updated. 
2. The rain should be stopping soon. It's one thing to be continually holed up during this health scare with very little to do (exercise, clean, cook, read, play/cuddle with the pups, repeat) but to do so when there's 3 days of rain and storms!? This might also be contributing to my short annoyance threshold with Jimmy. 
3. It's Friday! Five o'clock can't come fast enough! (And lets be real...I'll be lucky to make it to 4:00 before I pour a tall vodka soda today!) I am SO proud of myself that I didn't drink last night because I was REALLY jonesing! 
4. The Egberts will be back in the states tonight! And not a minute too soon...they are now, today saying that those Americans overseas should get home ASAP before borders close. I'm sure that this time tomorrow, I'll probably have already talked to Maggie at least twice with both of us tucked into our own homes. 
5. I found a "new" show to binge: The Good Place (Kristin Bell, Ted Danson). Of course this isn't a new show but it's new to me. It's on Netflix and I started watching it last night. HILARIOUS! My fave part of the show - "Eleanor" can't cuss in the Good Place so whenever she tries to, it comes out as "Fork!" or my favorite, "Bullshirt!" That should keep my spirits up.
6. Jim crossed off 1 1/2 items from his jobs list. He got the trim up around my bathroom and closet and he's in the midst of patching and painting the spot on the stairway upstairs. YAY Jimmy! 

And those are all the good things going on right now. I've done my 30 minute yoga routine for the day. Here's my my new routine: Wake up, drink coffee, take care of "business" and then do a 30 minute yoga on glo.com before making breakfast. After that it's a crapshoot depending on the weather. Yesterday I walked the dogs but today (Scout got 3 miles and Boo got 2), with the rain, I'll get on the elliptical. After that, I'll clean the house and from there, the day is mine. I'm sure there will be a bath in my future and some reading. Dinner tonight will be a meatless one: Lentil tacos (well, burritos), which I'm excited about...loves me some lentils. And of course wine! Can't wait to wrap my tongue around some red wine! 

K - happy (YAY!!!) Friday! Later!

Uh Oh...Jim's Driving Me Nuts

It's only day 3 and I'm about to drop kick Jim! He's like a cat or a three year old kid who, when the phone rings and you're trying to have a conversation, they decide that's the time to get in your face and meow or ask for a snack! With Jim though, he's hearing my side of a conversation with Maggie and having no real idea what's being said, he starts putting in his two cents and then I can't hear Maggie and I have to say, "JIM! STFU! I'm trying to have a conversation and you're annoying me!" And then I see that he hasn't returned the credit card to my wallet which annoys me. Then, as we all knew would happen with my list of jobs for him, not one got scratched off yesterday because guess what he was focused on!? Let's all say it together: THE GARAGE!!! I mean, how fucking annoying is that?! How many times a year does that guy need to reorganize it?! And his excuse is: I have to prepare the garage for what I need to do inside. Yeah, right!

He just said to me, "Maybe I should self-quarantine somewhere else." Me: "That may be a good idea!" I may need to go do another yoga routine.

So yesterday was productive for me. I cleaned out the pantry and got rid of a ton of shit that needed to be thrown out. There was shit in there that expired in 2007. Ugh! Just stuff like pancake mix or pizza dough mix but it took up a lot of room and now my pantry looks so spacious. I also cleaned out a few cupboards and got rid of some shit that I didn't need to be hanging on to (recipe boxes and whatnot). I also cleaned out the inside freezer.

Additionally, I made a batch of veggie broth...yielded 5 quarts. I also made some dried cherry, chocolate and almond biscotti (with amaretto liqueur in it). I'd say they are the best biscotti I've made yet. I sometimes have a problem with not drying them out enough which makes them soft instead of  crispy but yesterday's batch was perfect (for me). I think Paul Hollywood would give me a handshake.

This weather is giving me the blues. It rained so hard yesterday my backyard is a swamp. And it's not over yet. We're still in for another round of rain and storms through Friday morning. Yuck! I look forward to some warmer weather and getting out on my bike. Plus I want to get Scout and Boo out some more...they're getting a bit stir crazy as well.

My plans today: I'll tackle the deep freezer in the garage and the fridge. There isn't much in the fridge that needs cleaning out but there's some alcohol that we have that I won't drink that's taking up too much room. Makes me sad to throw out alcohol. Maybe one of the kids in the neighborhood will want it. Just kidding!

The Egbert's come home tomorrow. They should fly in around 9PM. Maggie said there are 4 families there from Upper Arlington! Isn't that funny!?

Okay well, dinner tonight will be some BBQ pork chops, a mushroom, spinach cauliflower rice and maybe some roasted potatoes. Yummy!

Happy Thursday! Later!

I'd Like To Report An Attempted Murder

My "yoga instructor" today tried to kill me! When I chose my class this morning I thought, "Non-stop flow...30 minutes...perfect!" And then I got into it and it really was NON-STOP...for 25 minutes... with a ton of chaturangas and planks and one legged dogs and balances and holy shit was my heart racing. Don't get me wrong...I liked it but yowza!

Has anyone out there had Mexican street corn? My neighbor always touts the one from Trader Joe's and so when I was at Kroger the other day and I saw some, I decided to get it. We had it last night with our crab cakes and it was DELICIOUS!  Jim really liked it. I'll definitely be getting that again.

Yesterday Jim and I played a little Trivial Pursuit to pass the time, which was fun. We ended the game tied (we each had 4/6 pie pieces) because it was lunch time. I think today - after we do some of the chores on the list I made for the both of us - we'll play a little 500 (cards). It's supposed to rain and be pretty dreary so maybe we'll lay in bed and watch a movie too.

I started watching Hillary, the Hulu documentary about Hillary Rodham Clinton. It's fascinating hearing about her life and career but the thing that I'm coming away with the most is angst.  As the episodes get closer and closer to her 2016 loss, I'm feeling all over again the stress and anxiety I had then. I just keep thinking about the fact that we're headed into another election whose ending, if it isn't what this country needs to happen, I don't think I can handle it. Another 4 years of lies and ineptness? Ugh! I'll finish watching it but I can only take it in doses.

So, as I said, I made a list of jobs for Jim and me to do over the next few days/weeks. My list includes cleaning out the pantry and freezers as well as my drawers and closet. Jim's list is all the little shit around the house that needs attention - trim, painting, a rotting board on our deck. Once all that gets done, I may add white washing the fireplace...we'll see.

Tonight, Jim chose for dinner Creamy Tomato Basil Skillet Chicken with a salad. I think I've made this before but can't remember. Should be good though.

And that's about all I've got. Time to get on the elliptical and finish up my workout. Happy Wednesday! Later!

Day 2 Of Quarantine

So yesterday was good. I got up, watched the news (I'm trying not to obsess), ellipticalled, ate breakfast and then went to the grocery. The grocery wasn't as bad as I thought it would be. There wasn't any TP but I wasn't there for that. I was there for ground turkey (finally got it after 3 days of them being out), chicken (didn't have any breasts) and bananas. The bananas were green as hell but that's okay...they'll ripen up. I also got lucky at the seafood counter with crab cakes. I was hoping they'd have some and lo and behold they did! The meat and seafood counter was actually not too badly stocked so that's good. We should be good for a bit in terms of groceries at least through the week.

Once that was done, I came home and tried out the new yoga online subscription I signed up for - glo.com. I got a free 15 day trial and after that it's $18 a month. We'll see. I really liked yesterday's routine - it was a Vin yoga sequence. These poses are meant to stretch connective tissue...the poses are floor poses and you hold them for much longer. Yesterday (a 45 minute routine) we did dragon pose, pigeon, butterfly (and something else I can't remember) each held for about 7 minutes. It was pretty intense and my hips were LOVING it! I felt like I could do the splits afterward. I didn't but I probably could have. Today was a really good routine as well. It was just a nice 30 minute vinyasa flow. Energizing. Something I need for peace of mind with all that's going on right now.

After that, I took a lovely hot bubble bath then hunkered down with my book. I've mentioned that I'm reading 3 books right now and they are: Becoming by Michelle Obama, The Butterfly House Marcia Preston and then The Guest House by Sarah Blake. They're all really good.

Jim then came home and we just hung out until dinner (chicken marsala, couscous and broccoli). Speaking of Jim, he's currently off for at least the week. After completing/finishing up the job he was on yesterday he talked to his boss, Andrew. Andrew stated that there aren't any jobs currently where Jim can work alone and he just isn't comfortable with putting Jim on a job where he'd be interacting with others. If something comes up, sure but for the week, Jim's going to just stay home. They may end up laying him off so he can collect unemployment...we'll see. I know that Jim is relieved and I can't say that I'm unhappy because I was a little concerned about Jim contracting the virus. Scary.

So, with Jim home, the boys will get a nice walk today. Other than that, we have no plans. Jim's probably going to work around the house and get some shit done (probably just shift shit in the garage from one side to the other), I'll read and chill. Dinner tonight: Crab cakes, roasted potatoes and Mexican street corn. Yummy.

K - I'm out. Time to have a second cup of coffee and the walk my little Scoutie...who hasn't eaten his breakfast yet and is being stubborn! Happy Tuesday! Later!

Staying In

Today starts a long road ahead - who knows how long - of home quarantine. Not because I'm sick but I don't want to get sick and possibly pass that on to others. Now originally, I wasn't that worried about going out and grabbing a beer at Shooters. I realized, however, the implications of that selfish act and chose (before the governor ordered restaurants and bars closed through at least March...except for takeout) to just hunker down.

Jim is at work. He is worried about working but upon talking to the NP and taking precautions (he has wipes with him and will stay away from others) he should be okay. He has very little contact with people in his day (usually working by himself) so I'm not too terribly worried. Plus, it's a slow time with his company and they've already given warning that they may decide to lay everyone off for the next couple weeks. We'll see. I figure, work as long as you can while you can and keep your social distance! 

With all this going on, what am I going to do? Well, I plan on getting some reading done. I have three books I'm currently reading and many on my list. I have an IEP to write (it's scheduled for April 7th but I'm not sure that will be possible) and that will take some of my time. A friend on FB posted a good online yoga site (glo.com) and of course I'll be exercising and walking with the boys and making delicious meals and hopefully not going insane. I'm going to continue to TRY not to drink during the week as well. 

Everything is just so up in the air right now. The governor has commented that we may not even get back to school this year and that seems unthinkable. Thankfully Jim and I are in a position where we'll be okay if he gets laid off...we can pay our bills but I feel so bad for those people who work in the food service industry and rely on tips and customers to pay their rent and such. Ugh! What a freakin' mess! This too shall pass though. 

Oh, Maggie, Charlie and Eva made it safe and sound to Turks and Caicos. I facetimed with them yesterday and their place looks amazing. Their trip is only for 5 days and hopefully their return will be as easy as their arrival was. 

Okay well, time to make another cup of coffee and do a little reading. I'll probably do a yoga routine in a bit and then take a nice bubble bath. Stay healthy and stay away from others if you can. Happy Monday! Later!

Three Week "Spring Break"

So Ohio schools have been ordered shut down starting Monday afternoon and going through April 3rd. We will have students today and teachers report on Monday but from there, who knows what will happen. The governor has stated that districts can decide about providing continuing education remotely and I would assume that my district will be figuring all that out to discuss with the staff on Monday.

For me, I started preparing on Wednesday by having all my kids had "join" the online classroom I set up. I can post assignments on there for them to work on. Thankfully I've already talked to all my kids about this and I believe all my kids have computer and wifi access.

Unfortunately I had an IEP scheduled on the 23rd so I emailed that parent last night on the off chance that she could come in today to quickly go over the document. She can so I'll have to motor to work to complete the IEP (it's mostly done anyway) and meet with her at noon. I may have to excuse some members but that's okay...it is what it is. I have an IEP that's due on April 8th and I'm assuming we'll be back in school by then but who knows. I'll try to set it up for the 7th and do what I can. ODE is just going to have to throw us a freakin' bone.

By the way: Why the FUCK is everyone buying all the toilet paper on the shelves!? Ridiculous people! Stop freakin' out!

With everything going on, I imagine today is going to be a shit show with the kids at school. They're going to be nuts with the 3-week "vacation" in their immediate future. I feel especially bad for my LA kids because we finished The Help yesterday and they were really looking forward to watching the movie. We'll watch it when we get back though.

I will probably really need Monday to get prepared for lessons so I'm not complaining about having to go in...I mean, I would be going in anyway. We as a society need to be a little less freaked out and understand that we all need to rely on each other, help each other (from a distance) and calm down! What's happening is meant to PREVENT massive spread to alleviate complete meltdown not to cause total panic.

I feel especially bad for parents who have nowhere to put their kids but have been happy to see all the kids offering their babysitting services over the next three weeks. We all need to step up here and help each other.

Okay well, as I said, I have an IEP to complete so I need to get my ass to work. Happy Friday! Stay healthy people...later!

Not Panicking...Yet

I'm trying not to panic and I'm trying to keep my kids at school from panicking but this corona shit is on my mind. School is gearing up to possibly close (several emails giving teachers warnings to start planning) for 2-3 weeks. It isn't in the plans right this minute, they're taking it day by day but with the exponential growth happening (cases are supposed to double every 3-4 days) it's only a matter of time.

I love how P. trump says "we" need to stop this partisan blame game regarding the virus and work together when he's the one who has been in his rallies saying it's a democratic hoax blah blah blah. What a tool. This will be the thing that buries him. His downfall will be epic I believe and that shit show will be fun to watch. Of course it will be Obama's fault or the Chinese or who knows who else will be found at fault. And someone like him - obese, old and stupid (shaking hands with every joe blow) is exactly the person people talk about who could be at risk. I'd mind my karma if I were Donnie.

I'm a bit worried about Jimmy and left a message with his oncologist...just to see if he needs to be more careful than the average person. Jim doesn't have a lot of contact with others in his normal day but he is in office buildings and other populated places. I'll let you know what I hear.

In other news...I'm sure glad it's Thursday and tomorrow is Friday. I'm ready for the weekend! More than that, I'm ready for Spring Break.

And that's all I've got. Time to get a move on. It was so good to have Jimmy home for breakfast this morning. The boys were so happy too. They didn't spend all morning upstairs today. Nope, they took turns in their daddy's lap while he perused the news in his recliner. They're so happy.

K - Happy Thursday! Later!

Corona Prep

Of course the big question at school by the kids is, "Are they going to cancel school?" (With lots of hope and excitement in these teen voices.) And of course I answered, "Settle down! Don't panic! We only have three cases in Ohio...near CLEVELAND!" And then I got an email this morning from our curriculum dude who is gathering information from all teachers about courses taught. He stated that they are in the process of preparing for the possible closing of about 2 weeks. Who knows when or if that will happen. We are two weeks from spring break so who knows. From my understanding the big crunch time in terms of spreading is over the next two weeks so...it's a conundrum!

Yesterday's ACT administration was fine. Boring but I got a few things done so it wasn't wasted time. Until of course we got to the end of the day when we had normal 6th and 7th periods. The kids were SPENT from stupid testing and so I just allowed them to chill.

Jim's out and about already for work today (left at about 4:15) and guess where the boys are? Yup...upstairs in bed. They are the laziest. I tried to tell them that what happened yesterday is happening again today but they don't seem to care. They're tired!

What is Tulsi Gabbard doing? Why is she still in the race? How does she call herself a democrat? She got less than 1% of the vote in Super Tuesday II yesterday. What a tool. And she's not running again for her house seat. I don't get it. I just hope no one is giving their money to her.

Okay - that's all I've got. I need to get these boys up and outside so they'll pee/poop before I go. Happy Wednesday! Later!

Early Morning Wake Up Call

Jim had to get up today at 3:30 so that he could get downtown by 5:00 to paint those stupid elevator doors. Ugh. The boys were so good about it though. When Jim got up, he shut the bedroom door and the boys didn't make a peep. I think they heard Jim leave but they were still good and didn't jump on me or bark. They did yawn loudly but that was it. I got up a bit earlier than usual (by 10 minutes) because I'm hoping they'll wear themselves out but guess where they are? Upstairs, sacked out in their pillows being lazy! I just called upstairs for them to get down here and play. Unsurprisingly, they didn't listen. Thankfully Jim should be home around noon or one so they won't be caged for too terribly long.

Today is whacky testing day at my school. I'll be closeted in a room (not mine) proctoring a group of about 12 juniors who get extended time. I hate this day because A) I'm not in my room B) I have to track the time...70 minutes here with a 30 minute warning then a 5 minute warning and then start all over for the next section of the test C) Though I get a lot of work done, it can be tedious and make me sleepy. Just have to keep telling myself that this too shall pass and we're almost to spring break.

Just called up again to the boys but they aren't moving a muscle. They'll be sorry when they have to go out and it's pouring. The rain is about to hit...just in time for my commute. Stupid.

And that's about all I've got. Dinner tonight is a repeat meatless one (potato, chickpea curry) that Jim didn't get to enjoy when I made it the first time because he was on 2nd shift. I think he'll love it...even with it being meatless.

K - I gotta go rouse my boys and get them out and about. You know that when I'm just about to leave they'll get all ramped up with energy. Turkeys! Happy Tuesday...later!

Still Feeling The Weekend

It was a good weekend but exhausting! Friday was a TON of fun with the ladies at my house. I made an amazing charcuterie board and the buffalo chicken meatballs were a major hit. Additionally, Amy made the cake at left - an olive oil cake with a lemon curd. It was so freaking delicious...probably the best cake I've ever had. Yum! Anyway - it wasn't that I drank a ton on Friday, it was more that I mixed my wines (prosecco, white and red), which is never a good thing. I didn't feel bad, so to speak, on Saturday but I was exhausted. Jim and I went out to Hoppin' Vines on Saturday and I was basically falling asleep by the end of our jaunt. I came home and slept for 2 hours.

Yesterday was a relaxed day. We didn't end up going to a movie because it was just too beautiful to sit in a movie theater. We did go to Shooters for a bit but then just sat outside and enjoyed the weather.

This week is going to be sort of crazy. Really just tomorrow. We're giving the ACT to all juniors (I will be proctoring that) while freshmen, sophomores and seniors do other things. It will take all morning and then the afternoon will be the last two bells of the day...so really a waste but whatever. At least I'll get some stuff done while proctoring. For example, the 3rd quarter ends Friday so I need to get my IEP paperwork done (progress reports).

Jim's working late today so I'll have a leftover night here...probably eat some of my leftover buffalo meatballs and salad. Yummy.

And that's about all I've got. I'm sure I have a ton of shit on my desk to deal with since I was out on Friday plus I have a quick meeting about giving the ACT tomorrow so I'd best mosey. Happy Monday...later!

Friday Off

I took off today, which is why I'm so late posting. I got up around 6:00 but lounged around before exercising. Now that that's done and I've eaten, here I am posting!

My plans today: After I finish up here, I'll clean the house and then head out for some errands. I'm having some ladies over tonight so I'll shop for the food I'm making (buffalo chicken meatballs, a copycat Dewey's salad and then a nice charcuterie board) and eventually come home and relax.

As I was driving home yesterday from school, Jim called and asked if I wanted to meet him at Shooters and then get Mexican. So we met at Shooters around 5:00 but they were packed and our place at the bar wasn't free so we went to dinner first. We went back to Shooters after and the people sitting in "our" seats were just leaving. This made Jim very happy, which is good since tonight he'll be sequestered in our room when the girls come over. Haha!

Plans for the weekend: Jim brought up going to see Emma which is hilarious. My hubby loves him a chick flick! We'll probably do that Sunday. Why not tomorrow? Well, I don't plan on drinking an abundance tonight but with these ladies, you never know. I don't want to make plans and then be all hung over and have to change them.

And that's all I've got. I'm having a hard time typing this because my hands are numb. Apparently I have Raynauds disease and after I exercise I get this crazy numbness in my fingers. It's apparently harmless and only happens when it's cold out but it makes it hard to type. That's my hand by the way. You can see how the blood flow is not getting to my fingers properly.

Okay - happy Friday! Happy Weekend! Later!

I Love Prime Numbers

My preference for prime numbers may make you think I'm nuts but it's just one of my little quirks. When I put something in the microwave to nuke, I have to put in a prime number. For example, I just handed my coffee to Jim and said, "Will you pop this in the micro and put nuke it for 43 seconds?" He said, "What happened to 41?" (I told him yesterday to zap for 41.) I had more coffee in mug today! I just loves me some prime numbers! 1, 3, 5, 7, 11, 13, 17, 19, 23, 29...I could go on and on!

Jim doesn't like Genesis (the band) which is too bad because they're getting the band back together! He also doesn't like Phil Collins. I don't really know what his beef is but anything either Phil or Genesis comes on the radio, he says with irritation in his voice, "Can you turn this!?" Maybe it's about another woman? Hmm...

Today is my Friday bitches! I'm sorry, you're not all bitches! (Some of you are assholes!) JK! I tell you this weekend can't come soon enough! (Spring Break can't come soon enough either!) Kids are driving me crazy! They've all just sort of stopped working, trying, doing their homework or anything else for that matter. I should just let them all fail!

Jim's having a fight with the tupperware right now which I'm secretly laughing about! He's emptying the dishwasher and the racket he's making is quite comical. I know he's expecting me to get up and make things right but I'm just not going to do it! Sometimes Jim acts like a little boy who can't complete some task and then stomps his feet, screams and bursts into tears. It's funny.

I'd be a terrible parent, wouldn't I?

Okay well, time to get a move on. Happy Thursday! Last day of beautiful weather for a bit! Later!

Mmm...Meatballs!

It's going to be a bit of a meatball week! Last night I made Sticky Ginger Sesame Chicken Meatballs and they were FABULOUS!!! Highly recommended. And Friday I'm making Chicken Buffalo Meatballs with a homemade blue cheese sauce. These are actually made in the slow cooker and I sure hope they're good since I'm having the ladies over! Fingers crossed.

Have I mentioned lately that kids are stupid!? So yesterday, I was teaching my 3rd period LA class and we were reviewing The Help from the day before. I asked to the class, "Who can remember the date that Skeeter now has to have the manuscript completed?" And one of my kids, under her breath because she wasn't sure, said, "December 32nd." And not sure I heard correctly I said, "What did you say?" And she said a little louder, "December 32nd!" And I said to the rest of the class, "Did she just say December 32nd?!" Yep, she did! WTF!?

Another warm day coming here...sure wish I could enjoy it outside but alas, Muwee gotta make some money!

Jim just told me a 10 minute story about having to paint elevator doors. He told me this thrilling story as a means of explaining why, in the next few days, he'll have to go into work in the evening. I said to him when the story was over, "Did you just tell me a 10 minute elevator story to say, 'I'm going to have to work in the evening coming up to paint some elevator doors'?" He said quietly, "You suck." I mean dude, know your audience! After nearly 19 years, he still hasn't figured me out. It'd be funny if it weren't so ridiculous!

And that's all I've got. Nothing happening at work so I guess I'll close here. Happy Wednesday (my Thursday). Later!

Three O'Clock Thunder

I was awoken last night by thunder. Huh? Didn't really realize that there were supposed to be thunderstorms going through but apparently there were a couple major tornadoes that ripped through Nashville. It's that time of year which gives Muwee heart palpitations! Hopefully with the trees we've taken down, I'll feel a little more at east. We'll see.

Speaking of heart palpitations, one of our teachers at school yesterday was rushed to the hospital. He was starting his 3rd period yesterday when he complained of chest pains and then collapsed face down. The kids rushed to get the nurse and called 911 and they hauled him off to the hospital. He's hope now and supposedly doing okay but will have to get to some doctor's appointments to see what's what. At the same time (and maybe this has to do with the stress and what happened yesterday) his wife who is also a teacher was put on administrative leave last week. This is the second time in 2 years they've done this to her. I don't know what happened but they target this teacher A LOT! The administration doesn't like that she gets close to many of her needy kids which is kind of bullshit. But again, I don't know the "story" so we'll see.

As I mentioned yesterday (I think) I'm taking Friday off and I thought for sure I wouldn't get a sub but alas, someone picked it up. That's good.

I really don't have anything else to talk about. It's going to be another rainy day but the temps won't be bad. Once we get through today, the rest of the work week should be sunny. YAY!

And that's all I've got. Happy Tuesday! Later!

A Beautiful Weekend

It was a lovely weekend especially yesterday. I took a REALLY long walk with Scout and tuckered us both out. Mostly, Jim and I just did our normal stuff: Dinner in on Friday, a new brewery on Saturday (more on that in a minute), dinner out on Saturday (Eddie Merlots and had $50 worth of bonus dollars on our frequent flier card), Shooters yesterday and then I grilled for dinner last night. The best part of the day was coming home from Shooters and seeing how lovely it was outside and laying on the deck with the pups for a little kitty cat nap. Makes me itch for warmer weather.

So yeah, we went to Wiedemann Brewery Saturday. The beer was really good. I got a Nitro Hazelnut milk stout and Jim got a pale ale. The food was meh. Nothing to write home about. I'm glad we went and tried it out but it won't be something we frequent. A) It's in St. Bernard - pretty far from our house and B) It's in St. Bernard.

The week at school should be pretty normal and uneventful. No meetings so that's good.

I made a lemon cake for one of my kids. She came in the other day and said, "Mrs. Hanke? Doesn't lemon cake sound gross?" And I'm all like, "What the what are you talking about!? It sounds delicious!" So I made one that will hopefully show her what she's been missing. Of course Jim's pissed that he didn't get a slice but I told him I'd bring any leftovers home.

Dinner tonight will be some homemade pizzas. I'll do a meat one for Jimmy and then a caramelized onion and mushroom one as well with a salad. Yummy.

And that's all I've got. Need to finish my toilette! Happy Monday! Later!

Didn't Expect That

To continue my post from yesterday - I ended up sending an email to my principal. I very copacetically explained to him that there certainly needs to be protocol in regard to students with early release who wanted to get extra help. Especially since we discuss this in IEP meetings with parents and have presented this as a viable option for kids seeking additional assistance. I then said I certainly didn't think we'd want our protocol to be turning kids away from help. I didn't expect a response unless is was a scathing one, however, near the end of the day, I got something along the lines of, "I totally agree. I'll discuss this with the other two admins."

Today is Friday! Woot! It's been a pretty good week. My kids have been good. We're nearly finished with The Help. I don't have to teach today (movie day in science and history and in LA, I have the Transition person coming in to teach) so that's good. I do have a mandatory meeting this morning about "anxiety" which will be useless but whatever. It's Friday and the weekend is going to be spring like!

One negative about school: I thought the kids would ALL do really well on their history test yesterday but I was disappointed there. I had 2-3 kids fail! I mean WTF!? Obviously they didn't study! Oh well, what're you going to do?

I gave Jim the option tonight of going out, getting take out or me cooking. He couldn't make a decision so I said, "How about I pull a soup out of the freezer and we have that and grilled cheese?" That made him happy. He chose beef barley...yummy! I'll stop on the way home today and get some yummy bread and cheese.

I've done my elliptical for the past 4 days and feel so much better than I did a week ago. I'll take a break from it today and do some yoga instead...get some stretching in before Scout and I take our big walk Saturday.

And that's all I've got. Boo and Scout got me up extra early today so I think I'll blow dry my hair...since I've got extra time. Happy Friday! Happy Weekend! Later!

Jerk

My principal can be such a tool sometimes! Yesterday, there was an email sent by him about teachers allowing students to leave early from their last period to "beat the crowd" to the busses or parking lot. (I don't do this and it does annoy me all the kids in the hallway heading out before the bell rings.) Anyway, apparently there were teachers who had issue with his threat (of a write up etc.) because there were exceptions. For example, seniors who have early release, who end their day after 6th period but stay to get help from a teacher. This to me is something that is justifiable. But apparently, those kids looking for extra help aren't allowed to get it. He sent an email addressing this issue which I got this morning. Basically he said that we don't have an open campus and students with ER are expected to leave the campus. If they wanted help they had the chance of being a classroom aide or some such shit. Really? You're going to deny a kid extra assistance? This doesn't sound like what's "best for kids".

And here's another thing about the above: I've been in several IEP meetings, speaking with kids who have ER and need extra tutoring. With the administrator sitting there (and even giving this suggestion), the option of staying after their day ends is brought up for extra assistance. You can't have it both ways Jerkface! You either offer kids help because they're struggling or you're an asshole. The issue isn't the kids trickling out who have ER. The issue is the PE teacher who lets the kids stand in the hallway and then sneakily leave early. The issue is the kids in the library who sneak out when the media aide isn't looking. You well know which teacher is guilty of this and you could post our resource officer at the front doors to stop this but you don't. Annoying. I'm so tempted to send jerkface a response and say, "Hmm...so in IEP meetings when this is offered - with the admin sitting right there - you're saying that we shouldn't be offering kids help? Got it!" Of course this is going to come up in our Liaison Committee...guaranteed!

It's Thursday! I'm so happy! Though I'll be happier tomorrow when it's Friday!

Got our PIB dates set! We'll be headed up in May, mid-June, mid-July and hopefully I'll be able to go up for a few days in August when others are there. We'll see.

And that's all I've got. I need to get a move on. Happy Thursday! Later!

I Hope My Day Gets Better

I know...it's only 5:36 but already I can say my day started off horribly. Why? Because as I sleepily got out of bed this morning, eyes closed and wishing I were still warm in bed, I stepped in barf. Not sure which of my pups left that little gift for me last night (right in the path from my side of the bed) but I believe it was Boo who was tearing apart his monkey last night. I think he probably swallowed a little too much fluff. Usually I hear the lead up to the actual barf but I didn't last night. Which is a testament to how well I slept last night! So hey, my day isn't really so bad!

I did a full workout on my elliptical yesterday and it was terrific! It's so smooth! Can't wait for another workout after school today!

Got a call from Becky yesterday about the remodel for PIB. Apparently the final approval was given for what we can do to the house. Here's what was approved:

• Connection of the loft to the main house (Woot! I'm most excited about that.)
• Enclosing the side porch to extend the house that way
• Adding a small deck or porch to make the back (near the road) entrance easier. 

They did not approve any changes to the roofline which I'm fine with. We'll still be able to knock down walls and reconfigure the main living room. Additionally they're going to try and get a linen closet upstairs as well as another 1/2 bath and they'll remodel the existing bathrooms up there. They'll also try to put another 1/2 bath downstairs. In my opinion if that 1/2 bath is NOT put in downstairs, I don't think we should close off the existing bathroom to the main bedroom downstairs. Certainly we should move the door though (so it isn't off the kitchen). None of this will start now until after this summer which makes sense...why give up a summer when it could be started after the season? Plus that gives time to get the plans right and even get the house better prepared for the remodel.

I'm hoping too that we can finally get rid of some of the furniture that isn't quite comfortable anymore. Like the falling apart wicker furniture. I mean, I know they are sentimental pieces to some people but who wants to redo do things and make things pretty and then stick the (sorry) junk furniture back in? I would assume that if someone is so attached to those pieces, they could haul them home and put them in their own houses. No arguments from me. Just this persons opinion.

I read a chapter of the Help to the kids yesterday - the chapter where the old white man is naked and twiddling himself outside of Celia's house (this scene isn't in the movie). In the chapter, he keeps asking Minny if she wants some of his "pecker pie" which of course the kids thought was hilarious (as did I). After we finished reading, one of my kids said to another kid across the room, "Hey Gary, didn't I see you eating some pecker pie yesterday?!" I mean, what was I supposed to do but laugh?! It was funny. Of course I then reprimanded him with, "Now, remember, what happens in 002, stays in 002!" Oh, and then another kids said, "What's a pecker?" (Yes, he was serious.) So I said, (since none of the other kids knew how to answer) "It's slang for a boys thing." Oh the life of a teacher...you can't make these things up.

Okay well, that's all I've got. Time to get a move on. Happy Wednesday. Later!

Breathe Easy

There will be no complaining today about my elliptical because you will be happy to hear IT IS FIXED! I can't tell you how happy I am! It was an immediate spirit lift after a gloomy day, I can tell you that. The window for the fix yesterday was 4-6 and the guy showed up at 3:43. He was out the door by 4:09 I was on the elliptical doing my thang by 4:35 (had to feed the dogs first). She runs so smoothly and though I didn't do my normal 50 minutes (I did 36 because after two weeks, I didn't want to overdo it) I could really tell the difference in comparison to my old one as my feet didn't go numb. I can't WAIT to come home today and get back on and do a full workout! The need for exercise and the endorphin rush is truly addicting and a must for my mood.

In sad news, I made a disgusting dinner last night. Let me correct that, the marinade for my pork chops was disgusting. It was just a balsamic, mustard and rosemary but I put too much balsamic in and it tasted a bit like feet. Poor Jimmy...he felt so bad that he didn't like it but I left him off the hook and made him a sandwich instead. We still had the roasted potatoes and green beans to eat so all was fine. I have NO idea what to cook tonight...I'm getting to that point where I'm getting sick of my winter meals and need something to change things up. I'll see what I can come up with while at school today.

IEP meeting went well yesterday and now I don't have another one until March 23rd! Woot! My focus now at school is getting my Biology chapters complete for the year. I've got the next three chapters pretty much done. I'm on mitosis and meiosis and it's very confusing (not just for the kids) so I'm having to REALLY dumb it down (not just for the kids) and it takes some time. Hopefully I'm not completely killing the subject for the kids. I try to make it bearable by putting in a "relevant" movie in there (we're watching Hulk on Fridays currently). This too shall pass!

I've not been sleeping well. I've been waking up in the middle of the night and laying awake for about 2 hours each night. Sucks. I don't feel overly tired through the day so it's not so bad but it's annoying. I should probably push myself to stay up a little later but I just love bed so much!

Okay well, that's all I've got. More rain over the next day and then snow. Sick of this soggy weather. Happy Tuesday! Later!

Today's The Day! (I Hope)

I'm hoping that today will be the day that my elliptical FINALLY gets up and running. The sucky thing is that the window for the repair guy to get here is 4-6. Which means that I either have to do some other exercise today after school or wait for my elliptical to hopefully be fixed and do my workout extra late. We'll see how things go and it all depends on when Jim gets home from work.

Weekend recap:
Friday

• Drinks with a few ladies after work Friday
• Take out Chinese 
• Bath (and a bit of singing in the tub with a mimosa)
• Bed

Saturday

• Took Scoutie on a HUGE walk (since I didn't exercise on Friday)...he was WIPED out
• Shooters 
• Grocery
• Hanging out at home and a lovely dinner with Jimmy

Sunday

• Took Scoutie on a big walk Sunday (not as big as Saturday) 
• Little Miami Brewery + lunch 
• Shooters for some Megatouch
• Hanging at home + dinner

I have an IEP this morning but other than that, things should be normal at school. After this IEP is done, I'll only have 3 left for the year (one of which is a scholarship kid so it's just a technicality). I will have to do some amendments for kids going to the WCCC but that's not a biggie. 

The recycling guy came at 4:00 AM this morning...woke me up...pissed me off a little especially after I tossed and turned from 12:30 until about 2:00. Annoying. 

Watched Bernie on 60 Minutes last night...once again...not a fan. I just don't feel a connection with that guy. Of course, if he's the nominee, I'll vote for him but I just have a hard time picturing a 78 year old in the White House for potentially another 8 years. After a heart attack. And I say the same thing about Biden by the way. Ugh! 

Okay - time to get a move on. Happy Monday...here's hoping the week flies by. Later!

Lucky To Be Awake

I woke up around 1:00 AM last night and was sort of tossing and turning, trying to get to sleep. I had to pee a little bit but didn't want to get out of bed and freeze my ass off but I finally succumbed. And it's a good thing I did because upon coming back to bed, I realized I never set my alarm. Oops. I'm sure I probably would've woken up anyway but you never know.

My elliptical is finally set to be fixed! I set the appointment up with the fix-it company yesterday. When she called she told me she happened to have an appointment available today...at 8:00 AM. I was so tempted to take it and call in sick but there are 21 teachers out today, 7 without subs so I decided to be nice. My appointment is set now for Monday between 4-6. Fingers crossed this gets my elliptical up and running.

I think tonight I'm NOT going to cook. I left it up to Jim to decide if he wanted to go out, get takeout or have me cook. He chose takeout but was wishy-washy on what he wanted. Definitely not pizza...maybe Chinese. He really wants Thai but our Thai place closed and was replaced with Indian. We haven't had Chinese in forever so I'm good with that...mmm...Schezwan String Beans...yummy!

I've been showing the kids a movie in history - The Boy in the Striped Pajamas. I'd never seen it before and boy oh boy I wish I never had. Worst movie ever...but powerful. Kids hated it.

Yesterday we had two aides out sick and I got an email from the secretary asking for help in figuring out coverage. First, I have no idea where they need coverage...I don't know their schedules. Second...not my job. Sorry. Annoying. Maybe if they hired full-time aides we would get coverage. Maybe if you paid subs more, we'd get coverage. But mostly...not my job.

Okay - time to get a move on. Happy FRIDAY!!! Later!

Parts In!

The parts for my elliptical came yesterday! I called for service but had to leave a message and haven't heard back from them yet. I'll call during my plan today if the chick doesn't call before then. I'm hoping this gets taken care of this week but at this point I don't have much hope. It makes me tempted to deal with the fix myself. The only good thing about the timing is that it is the weekend tomorrow and Saturdays and Sundays are reserved for my big walks with Scout. We'll see.

Here's anothing thing that's annoying me: I sent a message via MyChart to Jim's doctor (through his account) about something on his scan that Jim was supposed to ask about. I listed the question as "non emergency medical question", however, not only have I NOT gotten an answer but no one has even read the question yet. That's stupid!

Today will FINALLY be a normal day at school. Finally! I haven't read The Help with the kids in a WEEK! They're not going to remember anything that we've gone over. Oh well...this is the nature of 3rd and 4th quarters with either snow days or testing or stupid meetings. 

Jim and I finally had dinner together last night on a weeknight! And we got to watch the Wheel! I don't mind when Jimmy goes on 2nd shift (and the pups love it) but it sure is nice when he's back to normal.

Scout got a bath yesterday and he's so fluffy and smells so good. His fur is funny when it's squeaky clean because he gets the middle part down his back. It reminds me of  David Cassidy. Boo didn't get a bath because I didn't have the time and the sun was setting and he doesn't dry as quickly and it was getting cold and I worry about that sweet boy!

What else? Nothing really. Same old same old at school. Didn't watch the debate. Still not sure who to put my money on. I just know I'm not a Bernie fan. And Joe Biden is going down in flames currently. We'll see.

I guess that's all I've got. Salisbury steak (turkey) for dinner tonight with mashers and lima beans. A Jimmy favorite.

Happy Thursday! Later!

A Necessary Evil...I Guess

Maybe evil is too big a word but it seems fitting for the meeting from yesterday. I guess it was necessary although I would have preferred to just show up for the "draft" of caseloads. Everything else discussed really had nothing to do with me. Thankfully, it didn't take too terribly long (it was supposed to go from 7:15 - 11:15 but we were done by 10:15? Maybe 10:00) and I didn't have to sit and listen as stupid shit was tossed around (too much). Of course I pretty much tuned most of the jibber jabber out so I'm sure I missed something. On the other hand, are you really missing anything that's considered "jibber jabber"? Nope.

The really annoying thing about yesterday (nothing against you Diane) is that I really had shit coverage for my classes because no sub had taken my 1/2 day absence (they rarely do) so I just had random people come in. And then the instructions I left for 2nd period said that there would be an aide to help with the 3 higher need kids (MH kids from BFCs class) but Diane was sick and no one told me and SHE had no sub so no one showed up to help with those kooks. I feel bad for the sub because she was not in the know about these kids and was just left to her own devices. And by the way - I've asked before that if D is sick that SOMEONE tell me so I know...especially for this reason when I have a sub. Typical!

There were more annoying things but no sense going into them. Typical typical.

The parts for my elliptical should be delivered today. I got a message as well from someone about setting up service and interestingly the return number is a Cincinnati number. Hmm...maybe they won't be coming from Arkansas. We'll see.

OH!!! Good news! (Totally forgot) Jim had an appointment with his doc yesterday and he got the good news that he's back on a 3 month rotation of scans etc. because the meds are indeed doing what they need to do: Shrinking his lesions. Additionally, no increase in meds since the dose he's on is obviously doing its job! Woot! Take that cancer! (Don't get cocky Muir! The powers that be don't like that!) Sorry one more: Suck a turd cancer!

So the rest of the week should be pretty easy...just regular teaching and no other meetings. Today is going to be all effed up with assemblies for the kids...really I have no idea when kids are going to be in my classes or not. Not worried about it...I just don't know if I'm going to have to suddenly change plans or not.

And that's all I've got. Dinner tonight is a WW shrimp and linguine alfredo with a salad...one of Jimmy's faves.

Happy Wednesday! Later!

Meetings

I've got a couple meetings today. The first is our annual "draft" for the sped department where we determine caseloads, classes, and student placement. It's not my fave day because people tend to get sidetracked and bitch about things we can't change and some people talk too much and it's annoying. But at least it's just a half day and I can tune most of the jibber jabber out. My other meeting the annual meeting with the insurance rep guy to determine contributions to my HSA account etc. That meeting will only take about 10 minutes and I don't plan on changing anything.

Yesterday was a good day...nice and relaxed. I actually slept until 7:00! Got up, did some yoga (she tried to kill me), went to the grocery, took a relaxing bath, had a couple drinks with my neighbors and ate dinner. Jim was finally home on a "school night" so we were able to enjoy each other's company for the first time in about 3 weeks. Unfortunately, we didn't get to enjoy the Wheel because stupid Nascar was on. Which meant that I went up to bed extra early and then fell asleep extra early as well. This was all fine except I woke up at 2:00 pretty much ready to go. I managed to get back to sleep eventually but I never fell back into a deep sleep. Oh well.

I got an email that the replacement parts for the elliptical should be delivered tomorrow. I'm on the fence about just replacing them myself or in fact waiting for the service guy to drive up from Arkansas. Ugh! We'll see.  Just want my machine up and running correctly.

Have I mentioned how sore I am? That trampoline jumping really turned on some muscles I apparently hadn't been using! Add to that the number of chaturangas I did yesterday and I'm walking a little funny and can't raise my arms above my head without groaning.

No much is happening here. I'm making a chicken piccata for dinner tonight in case you're wondering. It's a new recipe...hope I like it. Chicken hasn't been my favorite lately. Although Susan and Trip made a chicken dish on Sunday that was delicious! I think part of my problem is I need to pound my chicken and get it thin which I'll do tonight.

And that's all I've got. I need to get a move on because I never put plans together for the sub today. I know what my kids are going to be doing and it's only for three classes but I should head out so I'm not late for my meeting. Happy Tuesday! Cheers to a short week! Later!

Packed Weekend

What a weekend! Had so much fun with the fam! Here's a short synopsis of what we did:

• Jim worked on Friday until about 3:30, came home and then he and I went down to Trip and Susans for a chili extravaganza! There were 11 of us and we had a lovely time. Jim and I headed home around 9:00. 
• Saturday, Jim and I got up, walked pups, ate breakfast and then met everyone at Perfect North. The kids, Charlie, Trip, Anne and Madison were skiing when we got there so we waited for them to finish and then Jim and Steve joined them to go tubing. Maggie and I left at that point and headed back to Trip and Susan's where Susan was getting things ready. 
• JJ had a 6:00 soccer game so all but Jim, Steve and Madison headed there to watch. Unfortunately his team lost but it was a good game. From there, Trip, Susan, and I went to get pizzas and then home for dinner and cards and hanging out. 
• On Sunday we woke up and Susan made a delicious breakfast on her outdoor griddle (I'm going to be getting one of those...it's amazing!), we all showered and then headed to Silver Lake where Trip and Susan belong. We went duckpin bowling and then went trampolining! It was SO MUCH FUN! Jim LOVED the trampoline! It was hilarious. Jim and I left there around 2:00, came home, walked the dogs, fed them and then headed back down to T&S for dinner. We were back home around 9:00. 

Definitely going to have to make this a yearly get together (at least). 

So my plans today are to chill, exercise, go to the grocery, cook dinner and get ready for the week. Jim just left for work and the pups are napping. I'll probably go do some yoga here in a bit and then take the boys on a walk since the temps are going to be in the 50s. 

And that's all I've got. Time to make the bed and figure out what yoga I'll do. Happy Monday...Happy President's Day! Later!

So Frustrating

Called in sick today...just feeling blah! Maybe it's the week  catching up with me and then a long night last night. Whatever...it's a good day to do it since it's an inservice and I don't need a sub and the kids won't have to deal with stupid piddly work (like they will Tuesday when I have a 1/2 professional day for a sped meeting). Anyway - around 11:30 last night I couldn't sleep and was tossing and turning and I thought, "I don't need this...I never take a sick day for me." So there you go.

This has been a frustrating morning so far. I did everything I could to fix my elliptical. I tightened bolts, I tried the little tricks and maneuvers the dude at Sole service told me to try and nothing worked. So, I called the service department again today and explained what's going on to another service guy and he thinks it's faulty parts. Which means, he's sending the parts to me. That will take 2-3 days. After that, within 2-3 days, I'll get a call to set up service. It will take (get this) about 2 days for the service guy to DRIVE up from Arkansas!!! And then I'll hopefully have my machine repaired! So annoying. I. Just. Want. To. Work. Out!!! It's depressing and I'm sure I'm packing on the pounds! UGH! I know I need to settle down but this weather and it being the middle of winter and it's not like I can just go take a walk or get on my bike! It's been raining for - what seems like - 2 fucking weeks and I NEED SUMMER TO GET HERE! And I need my elliptical to work. And I need...a drink!

I'm not going to have a drink, however, because I do plan on doing some work from home today but boy would a mimosa taste good right about now.

The weekend is going to be jam packed with fun! Tonight we're headed down to Trip and Susans for dinner. The Egberts are coming to town (they'll be staying with T & S) and Anne, Steve and Madison will also be staying with them (Jim and I will stay with them tomorrow). Tomorrow we're going to Perfect North for some skiing and tubing and then back to Trip and Susan's for some fun. I believe JJ has a soccer game which we'll all go to and then I think we're going to just order in pizza. After that it's going to be about chilling, hanging out and maybe playing games! Sunday, who knows what's on tap but I do know that we'll do a family dinner at T&S's with Dad joining the fray. I'm just looking forward to all of us hanging out and enjoying each other's company. (Sure wish Cullen were in town to join.)

And that's all I've got. I'm going to do some school work now and then hang with my crazy pups. Happy Friday! Happy long weekend! Later!

Marathon Day

This day is going to suck. Originally I was going to get up at 4:00 and exercise but when I woke up at midnight and realized how freakin' tired I was, I decided against it. So that's reason number 1 why today will suck because I won't get to exercise. Additionally, it's a late night at school with conferences from 4:30 - 6:00 and then from 6:00 - 8:00 we have academic fair. Stupid. I have one conference (no big deal). Thankfully, however, I have an in-service tomorrow which means A) I don't have to be in until 8:00 (will exercise tomorrow morning) and B) I'll be at my desk working all day long. I'm still trying to finish my Biology class so hopefully I'll get all that ironed out for the rest of the year tomorrow. Jim is still on 2nd shift today so at least the dogs will only be in their cages today for about 4 hours.

I have an IEP this morning. It's done and ready to go but I kind of forgot about it. Oops. It's no big deal and for a kid who is pretty high (not sure she really needs an IEP) so I'm not concerned. Hopefully it won't take long but of course it's a combo IEP/ETR (evaluation) and sometimes the school psyche rambles on needlessly. I'll give her a little warning that I need this to go lickity split quick becuase I have kids that need to take and finish a test 1st bell.

My elliptical is still a bit wonky. I still used it yesterday but it just isn't right. I tried a couple things to fix it yesterday after watching some videos but it didn't fix the issue so I'll call this morning during my plan and try to get some answers from the manufacturer. I have a feeling someone is going to have to come out to see what I'm talking about. I was going to have Jim call but he won't be able to give a good detailed description of what's happening.

I'm reading a good book (recommended by Becky) called The Guest Book by Sarah Blake. I'm only a few chapters in but it's really good.

And that's all I've got. Need to get going. Happy Thursday! Wish for me a quick day and night at school. Later!

P.S. Why is the spell check button on Blogger suddenly gone!? Stupid!

Ironing Out Some Kinks

To ease your mind, yes, I was finally able to get on my elliptical and exercise. There are some kinks with the machine, however. The left roller (which glides on a bar) jumps or rather hops a bit. I'm not sure why but in reading it could be that it needs to be lubricated. I don't think that is the problem though. See when I was putting the machine together, I noticed that the roller didn't sit square on the bar while the right one did. I think there may be an assembly issue. When the delivery guys delivered the machine, they put part 1 and part 2 (the two massive pieces) together for me and I'm wondering if it wasn't slightly off. I'm going to have Jim call the manufacturer today to see what they have to say. My workout though was lovely and I'm just hoping that I get a chance to repeat it today.

I'm sad. I finished the last episode of Sex Education season 2 yesterday. I hate that these new series that come out only have 8 episodes! How does that make for a season? They should be, minimum, 10 episodes. So now I have to wait another year for the next season to come out. Bummed! I do, however, have other things I need to watch (yes, need!). Like, I still need to finish Handmaid's Tale. The 2nd season of Killing Eve is still waiting for me. Of course I'm re-watching all the British Bake Off shows so I still have that. What else? Maggie gave me a suggestion which right now I can't remember...I'll check my text. Anyway...

My IEP went well yesterday. No big deal. School if fine as well although some of these kids really try my patience. Teachers too. There's this one teacher - she teaches math. Earlier in the year, I had a kid who needed to make up a test in my 1st period and I had spoken with the teacher the day before and she was supposed to open the test (it's on computer) but apparently forgot. I emailed her reminding her but apparently she didn't get the email until later. She emailed me back to tell me that next time I just need to call her so she can get the test opened and the kid can complete it and she can get the grade in the gradebook!!! So yesterday, same kid needed to make up a test so like I'd been instructed, I called. Well, that didn't go over well. I explained the test needed to be opened (it's on computer) and the teacher got all interrupty and said, "Well, I'm in the middle of a BIG problem with my BC Calculus class and I'll open up the test when I get a chance. Not sure when that will be!" Me: "Okey dokey! Thanks for your help!" What a maniac! And she's one of those massively fast talkers that you can't understand until the 10 second delay has kicked in...annoying. Chick...get a grip...life doesn't need to be that difficult!

So Jim was supposed to be off 2nd shift Thursday but he found out he's still on. Ugh! Poor guy. He's so burnt out! I just hope that Friday he's back on 1st. But he'll be exhausted. Sucks

Yesterday I SOOOOOO wanted a glass of wine before dinner! But, I buckled down and stuck to my guns and didn't have one!

Speaking of dinner! I made an AMAZING dish last night! Cauliflower and Potato Curry! So flavorful and delicious! It was done in the instant pot, was meatless and made a TON! (Probably should have cut the recipe in half!) I added chickpeas to the pot (because I'm obsessed with chickpeas lately) and served it with some brown rice. I of course like a lot of spice the cayenne was used liberally. Try it! To die for!

K - Time to get a move on! Later!

Back In Business!

That's right! Starting today - when I get home from school - I'm back on the elliptical. I. Can't. Wait! Especially since I didn't get to workout yesterday! Ugh!

So yeah, after a whole lot of irritation yesterday morning (after getting an email from the delivery company that they needed to reschedule for today) things worked out fine. Upon receiving the email, I sent them a message stating I expected delivery on the time and date originally set up. As I walked into school yesterday, the delivery guy sent me a text saying delivery would happen as planned. When I got home yesterday around three, I was chit chatting with Jim and my phone rang. It was the delivery guy saying he'd be here in 20 minutes. The machine was delivered and ready for me to put it together by 4:00.

Here's what I'm proud of:

• I put the thing together all by myself.
• I put the thing together in about 3 hours without losing a single piece of hardware
• I didn't cuss (well maybe under my breath a little). 

Here's what annoyed me:

• Jim, at first, tried to help before he left for work and of course, messed things up. 
• The directions for assembly were, at best, confusing. But I got it done even if it did take me about 10 minutes with each step to riddle out what I was being told to do.
• There was one direction that effed me up and I ended up having to rethread one of the computer cables back into a tube which took about 20 extra minutes. 
• I didn't get to workout (I know I already mentioned that but it REALLY annoys me.)

I got on the thing a bit last night just to make sure it was running properly and I believe all is well. I told Jim today to just make sure it was level. I read the manual last night and it seems pretty easy so I'm excited to use it today. Needless to say I hope to get an extra long workout in but who knows since it's been over a week since I've been on one.

And that's all I've got. I need to get a move on because I have a 7:15 IEP and want to make sure I'm ready to go with copies made before hand. Happy Tuesday! Later!

Mostly Good Weekend

Jim's birthday weekend was great and not just because I had Friday off. We had a great time out and about on Saturday and Sunday and it went way too fast. Saturday we went to Shooters and then had drinks at Bad Tom Brewing before dinner at Red Feather. Sunday we went to Hoppin' Vines for a couple beers and some duckpin bowling and then lunch at Currito. I made dinner last night - egg roll bowls - which was yummy!

The part of the weekend that was NOT good was getting annoyed by my neighbors, my dogs eating 3 pairs of flip flops (while I was doing yoga trying to decompress from my neighbor annoyance) and then waking up this morning with an email from Dick's trying to reschedule my delivery today for tomorrow. I'm going to do EVERYTHING in my power to keep my delivery on for today and I'm going to pitch a royal fit if they move it to tomorrow! I feel like my head is going to pop off with all the annoying shit that's been piling up on me! 

So my neighbor thing: As you may or may not know, Loveland (where I live) tried to pass a RIDICULOUS levy last November ($165 mill...one of the largest levies ever attempted in the state of Ohio). Needless to say it was NOT approved by a resounding 78% against. Afterward the board decided to put another levy on the ballot ($6.5 mill) without fixing any of the previous issues that were voiced by the public. Now, I don't think I've ever voted no on a school levy but I did on this one (in November) and I'm still schooling myself and deciding about the one for March. Considering they don't even have a planned budget for spending this money and they don't even have building plans, I'm thinking they need to go back to the drawing board. And by the way, the district is still in the black in terms of their money...they are not in an emergency situation. 

All that explained, I was getting ready yesterday and saw that my neighbors and a former neighbor were putting signs throughout the island (our cul-de-sac) much of which is owned by Jim and I. SO!!! presumptuous! After the signs were put up, I then got a text from Lauren saying, "You don't mind that we put levy signs in the island do you?" Now that's annoying for a number of reasons but mainly because guess who looks like an asshole now? My answer was, "I haven't made a decision about the levy yet. I don't care about the signs as long as they aren't on our property (don't want to be a hypocrite if I decide against.)" The other thing that's annoying is that Lauren was well aware of how I felt about the levy in November. Whatever though...they had the signs moved by the time we got home in the afternoon. People are ballsy! 

Okay well, I'd best mosey. This week will be an interesting one. I have a "short" week with an in-service on Friday but I have a long night on Thursday with Parent/Teacher Conferences and then Academic Night. But it's also going to be a three-day weekend (no school next Monday). Bonus too, Jim is back on regular shift starting Thursday. 

Ooh, just got a text from Dick's delivery dude who said he WILL be here to deliver today. Lucky! 

K - happy Monday...later!

I'll Take It!

2-hour delay and that's just fine with me.  Would I like to be closed? Of course! But beggars can't be choosers. We only have about an inch but it's slick out there and the snow is still coming down. What I'm really hoping for with all this is that Advisory gets cancelled today as well. We'll see. I've already showered and eaten breakfast so now I can just relax and watch TV.

In other news, I got Jim's birthday gift(s)...4 gift cards he can use for lunch when he's at work and just doesn't want leftovers (Skyline, Frisch's, Wendy's, Chipotle). The funny thing about all this was I called him yesterday to chit chat about some things and asked him what he wanted for Christmas because Anne had him in our pick (which we'll celebrate next weekend). His initial answer was a gift card from Dick's and then he stopped and said, "No! I want gift cards from Skyline and Wendy's and Frisch's!" Ha! Do I know my hubby or what!?

I woke up to an email this morning from a parent that said he and his son studied hard for the history test last night and he closed thanking me for such a "wonderful learning guide". The sad/funny thing about this was the test was yesterday. The study guide I send out on Wednesday clearly stated when the test was and of course his son failed miserably. However, his son is one of the MD kids who is really in my room for socialization and to get him a little out time from his regular classroom. I'll adjust his grade and maybe even allow him to go over his wrong answers. He's a crack up and I don't want him to fail.

So Jim is still deciding where he wants to go tomorrow for his birthday. Ends up it's just going to be the two of us. I found a couple places that look good (Red Feather and Spoon and Cellar) but Jim gets final pick. He's already said he wants to go to Shooters (big surprise) but other than that, who knows.

Okay well, that's all I've got. I'm going to go chill on the couch with Boo (who has been smacking and barking at me and randomly jumping up on my lap for love) and watch some Morning Joe. Happy Friday! (Fingers crossed we close!) Later!

P.S. My spell check is missing on Blogger so I apologize for any issues.

Sirius Radio

Yesterday at work the discussion about Sirius radio came up and I realized that I needed to call and "cancel" my subscription. I say "cancel" because I know how they work. They don't like to lose customers and they'll do almost anything to keep you on. And by the way, the renewal cost for the next year was going to be $247.00 according to the email I got about a week ago. That's nearly $150 more than I paid last year. So I called last night and finally got to customer service and said I wanted to cancel. They guy asked why I was cancelling and I said "Because it's too expensive based on the email I got and I don't want to pay any more than the $99 I paid last year." And the guy came back with, "Well, that's a coincidence because we have a deal going on for loyal customers for $99 and an upgrade for a year to all access. I see you've been a customer for 12 years so you qualify!" First of all, HOT DOG! Now I'll get Howard Stern and other channels I didn't have before, I can stream as well. Second of all, I've NOT been a customer for 12 years. I've only subscribed this last year with my new Subaru. But I didn't correct him. Oh, and because my renewal wasn't set to happen until 3/14, they credited my account $14! Woot! I barely had to haggle. Hell, I didn't haggle at all. I probably should have...I probably could have gotten a cheaper price but that's okay...I didn't want to be on the phone that long.

Why is it that in a week where I didn't work the full week it goes by like molasses? I woke up this morning thinking, "This is a joke! It's Saturday, right?!" 

Speaking of...Saturday is Jimmy's birthday. I don't plan on getting him much of a gift. I mean, I did just take him to Punta Cana. I'll get him a little something...maybe a few gift cards for lunch out when he's on the job. Sound impersonal but he'll like it. However, we do plan on going out on Saturday. He wants to head to Weidemann brewery (like we were supposed to do last weekend) and then to either Pins Mechanical or Hoppin Vines in Kenwood so do a little duck pin bowling. He's supposed to call his friend Chris to see if he and his wife Martha want to tag along. We'll see. 

Four more days!!! Until delivery of my new elliptical. I. Can't. Wait! I  miss it. Yesterday I did the recumbent and it was fine...it gives a good workout for my legs but it isn't the cardio I get with my elliptical. I just hope it doesn't take a week to assemble. I may have to call in sick next Tuesday! 

Ooh, next week is a 4-day week with kids (in-service on the 14th) and then we have a 3-day weekend. YAY!!! Although, I have a late night on the 13th...Parent/Teacher Conferences and Acadeic Night. Of course Jim will have to work on Monday (President's Day) but that's okay...Muwee won't. 

Okay well, that's all I've got. Time to get a move on and head to work. I'm still not done with all my grading and, oh shit! I have an IEP today at 7:15. That's okay though, it's for one of my kids whose mother is an aide with us. She's been out sick all week with the flu (as have her 4 kids)...not sure she'll even show. I hope she's not still sick and then shows up...I'll have to kick her. Anyway...later! Happy Thursday. 

All Is Well

Just wanted to get that out there first regarding Jimmy. He had his PET scan yesterday and then his doctor's appointment (although we didn't see the doctor but the nurse practitioner) and while there was a bit of a hiccup, tentatively, all signs are pointing to his lesions shrinking and no spreading. I say tentatively because of course when we got in the room with the NP, she told us that the scan didn't get compared to his previous scan. Annoying. I had them print out the scan and could see right away that there was shrinkage (previous scan read lesions in centimeters and this one was reading in millimeters) and then the NP called Jimmy last night and confirmed what I had seen.

So all that's good and it means that these new meds (which knock on wood aren't causing him grief) are working. He's still on 3/4 of a dose but they plan on upping those, I think. But who knows now that they're seeing that the dose he's on is doing its job. Jim goes back to the doc in 2 weeks and will get to meet with the doctor. I would imagine then, he'll up the meds again but we'll see. I won't go to that appointment unless something untoward happens from now until then.

In other news, the rest of my day yesterday was spent reading my book and hanging with the pups. Jim pretty much snoozed in the recliner all day until he had to leave for work. I did some extra ab and arm work but I'm seriously missing my elliptical. I just don't get the cardio I want and it's making me nuts. I know I have a problem but what can I do? Today I'll workout on my recumbent and hope that that keeps me sated.

If you're wondering if I watched the SOTU last night the answer would be, "Uh, NO!" First of all, why would I subject myself to being lied to and that's WAY past my bedtime. Though in all fairness, I was up until 9:00 reading my book...it's so good! It's the sequel to the book I mentioned a month or so ago (Art of Hearing Heartbeats). It's called A Well-Tempered Heart. It's hard to put down!

Well, that's all I've got. Time to get a move on. Since I was absent yesterday, I have a ton of grading to do. Happy Wednesday...we're halfway there. Later!

P.S. "Hiccup" came up as a misspelled word but then gave no suggestions. Is it spelled wrong?! WFT?

Jam Packed Morning

I took today off to go to Jim's doctor's appointment so my morning will be packed but after that, I'm free as a bird. Jim had to get up at 5:00 to be out the door by 5:30 to get to his scan at 6:15. All that after he didn't get home until around midnight last night. At least he can nap this afternoon before he has to go to work again.

I got up at 6:00 and drank some coffee. I did a little yoga and just finished breakfast. I'll get in the shower after this and then head down to St. E's around 8:30. Of course traffic sucks because rain and what not but slow and steady wins the race.

Yesterday I was in a bit of a funk. I don't know why but I was just blah. When I got home I decided to go on a bike ride (since it was 60 degrees) and it bolstered my spirits and mood. Sometimes you just need outdoor air and to get your endorphins moving!

So after my lovely bike ride, I decided to motivate and do my taxes. I'm happy to say they are done, filed, they've been accepted by federal and state IRS and now I just have to wait for my money. On a down side, I didn't get as much as last year (thanks Trump) and it's really disheartening to think that a company like Amazon pays a lower rate than me who doesn't make shit as a teacher. Bullshit! Oh well, what are you going to do?

Boo keeps coughing. Not sure if he's got something lodged or if he scratched his throat or what but it sounds terrible.

Speaking of terrible there are SO many kids sick right now! I mean, whatever this is - a stomach bug or the flu - these kids are falling like dominoes and they're out for a week at a time. Apparently this whatever-it-is is a doozie!

Okay well, I best get a move on...I have to stop and get gas too. In the rain. Yuck. K - later. Happy Tuesday!

The Elliptical Saga

So I came home on Friday and was enjoying my workout on the elliptical. I had gone 40 minutes and had 10 more to go when BAM! The damn thing busted. Literally snapped in half. Well, the pole thingy snapped clean off the foot pedal. Sucks! And yes, I could repair it but at this point, it's just going to keep having issues and that headache just isn't worth it. It's a 5 year old machine and lasted as long as I think it could considering it wasn't the most expensive or well-built elliptical out there. Anyway, this meant that on Saturday Jim and I had to go out and get a new one. I ended up purchasing the Sole e25. It's nice and smooth and should last longer than my Schwinn did. The bad part is that I can't get it until next Monday! UGH! How am I going to survive a week without my elliptical!? Sucks. Since it's going to be nice today, I think I'll ride my bike but after that, I guess I'm stuck with my recumbent and then I'll do some yoga and other stuff.

Jim's still on 2nd shift. Not sure how long but it's good since he has a scan and doctor's appointment tomorrow. Won't have to miss work for it. I've taken off tomorrow to go to the doctor but I'll meet him there because his scan is at 6:30 am and there's no reason I need to go to that.

What else? Had friends over on Saturday for dinner and cards. That was fun. Christine and I kicked Dan and Jim's asses which is funny because Christine is new to euchre. Of course yesterday when we played with Doug and Lauren, Lauren and I got our asses handed to us by Jim and Doug. Oh well...can't win 'em all.

Yay for the Chiefs! I was rooting for them.

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