Another Yummy Dinner

I made another yummy meal last night: Butter Chicken Meatballs from Half Baked Harvest. It's an Indian inspired meal and really scrumptious. I think it's one of those meals too that A) will be even better the second day once all the flavors incorporate and B) will be a good freezer meal.  I will definitely add more curry next time (because you know I loves me some curry) and the recipe calls for "full fat" coconut milk which I didn't do and as I could tell, it made no difference. Not sure why you need that but my meal had no issues thickening up. I even had some naan in the freezer so I gave some to Jim and had a half for myself.

You know I've been married, going on 17 1/2 years and I'm still learning new things about Jim...and me. For instance, I recently sent Jim to the grocery with an detailed list (I've learned to do that so that I don't get 7 phone calls from him while there. BTW - I still got one this trip...I guess you can't be perfect every day).  Example: instead of just writing, "tomatoes with diced chilies", I wrote "10 oz can Kroger tomatoes with chilies, next to Rotel brand"; and instead of writing "lite coconut milk" I wrote, " lite coconut milk, blue can, in baking aisle, top shelf". But alas, I still wasn't detailed enough. And by the way, if anyone needs tomato paste, I'm your girl. See, I made the mistake of just writing "tomato paste 5 cans". Instead of getting me the small can, Jim brought home 5 cans of the 10 oz cans. Now if you're like me, most of the recipes I use that call for tomato paste call for 3 tablespoons...usually you don't even need a whole can. I've started freezing the leftover paste in tablespoon increments so as not to waste. Now however, I have more tomato paste than I know what to do with. Ugh! Oh well, lesson learned. Hee hee!

It's Halloween! Boo! Happy Halloween! I feel bad for the kids tonight...it's going to be NASTY! We never get many trick-or-treaters anyway (maybe 10 and those are the ones that live in our circle so you know they all come at the same time) but this year should be interesting. And you know Jim got a gigantic bad of candy too. He'll be taking that to work with him because I certainly don't need it in my vicinity!

And that's about all I've got. Time to get out of here. Happy Wednesday! Oh yay!!! So happy half the week is almost over!

K - later!

We Are The World

Can't stop singing this...I don't know why. I was singing it this weekend and it's just stuck with me. 

I had a HARD time getting out of bed this morning. Not sure why. I went to bed at my usual time and feel fine now but I was very groggy and stumbling down the stairs at 4:50. Probably because I was so lulled into a stupor with my little Scoutie spooning with me. I fell asleep with Boo under the covers spooning me and I awoke with my other boy in the crook of my belly.

I made a DEEEELICOUS meal last night: Instant Pot White Chicken Chili. Basically a dump and cook kind of meal. And I tweaked it so that one serving was only one point! (I did add a little avocado and 7 tortilla chips which tacked some on as well but I was still well within my allotted points for the day.) Pinned on my Weight Watcher board on Pinterest if you're interested. And if you don't have an Instant Pot...well, you need to get one. Christmas is coming so add it to your list.

So crazy mom (not on my caseload but Lisa's)? She had a meeting with the "team" yesterday and guess what? She hates me. Go figure. So she demanded that her son be taken out of 2/3 classes he had with me (science and history). It's no big deal to me, I'm not offended because I know she's nuts but the kids really nice. Who knows if what she says he says about me is true (that I yell at him) but whatever. The only thing that sucks is the kid probably will be lost in the history and science classes he's going to now be in and my history class only has 3 kids in it now. I do NOT like such a small class. When one kid is absent, am I supposed to go on? And you know one of the three kids in my history class is nonverbal so it's like pulling teeth getting anything out of these kids. Sucks. Oh well, as Jim says, "Bitches be crazy!" HAHA!

It's jeans week. I forgot yesterday. I really don't care about jeans (prefer to wear leggings most days) but that's okay - I'll give $10 for a good cause. This cause, however, isn't something I'm too terrible hip to but whatever...the school is trying.

And that's all I've got. Tomorrow is Halloween and starting tomorrow morning and through Thursday we're supposed to get 3-5 inches of rain (I almost typed wine...guess where my mind is?).

Jim and I have plans to have dinner with the neighbors this weekend...we had plans for Sunday and then Lauren saw that Bonefish has brunch so it looks like we'll be trying that...I wasn't so sure about Bonefish for brunch but I looked at the menu and it looks pretty good. I just hope they have a good mimosa!

Okey dokey...time to get a move on. It's already 6:00! Happy Tuesday...later!

Fun Times

Saturday, Maggie's 50th was a great time in Columbus. Jim and I left around 11:30 and got to Maggie's around 1:30 (we stopped at Panera to get lunch for all of us). Trip and Susan and J.J. got there around 4:30 and we headed to the party around 6:30. There was a LOT of drinking a LOT of laughing and a LOT of fun! The food was great as well. Charlie did an amazing job planning everything. I will say there was NOT too much drinking on my part (I spaced out my wine and water) but Jimmy, well, lets just say he won't be doing that for a while. Tequila is always his downfall. I was VERY surprised that Maggie felt so good yesterday morning. She definitely had a great time and her  crossed eyes at the end of the night showed it. However, she was fresh as a daisy when Sunday morning rolled around. Proof what 50 years experience means.

Oh, forgot to talk about Friday. I left here around my usual time to get to school and noticed as I neared Kroger, that my ESC Off light was on. So I called Jim to see what he thought (because pushing the button didn't do anything). He told me to pull over, turn the car off and see if that fixed it. So I pulled into the UDF parking lot and attempted to shift into park (nope wasn't happening) which meant I couldn't turn my car off. I couldn't get out of either drive or neutral...ugh. So Jim came up and used the Shift Lock button to get my car to shift and I was able to drive home with Jim following. Apparently my brake lights weren't working either. I had to call into work because I didn't know what was wrong and didn't want to chance driving and getting stuck. I did some research and found that the connection between the gear shift and brake lights pointed to a simple switch fix. I took my car to my mechanic around 2:00 and was home by 2:30 having paid the $60 bill. WOOT!

Now, having gone through all this I have decided to get a new car. I will give Jim my car and we'll get rid of his. I think we'll try to have this done by the end of November. From my understanding, if you need to buy, the time to do it is going to be before January due to the tariffs about to take into effect. I'm looking at an Outback, possibly. I'll test drive and see if I like it. My biggest issue with the Outback was ensuring I feel as high up as I am with my current car. I just don't like sedan and lower riding cars anymore since having an SUV. Originally I thought about a Ford Explorer but they are just more car than I need I think. We'll see.

Okay well, the week should be fairly easy. I have an IEP on Friday but the parent won't be showing so there you go. Nothing else is in the plans and I'm excited to have a weekend of staying put and relaxing.

Happy Monday! Here's to a fast week. Later!

Back On Track

I felt like last week (not this past week but the week heading into PIB) was a bit of an off week for me. What I mean is that I didn't feel very inspired regarding my weight loss quest. I felt a bit run down and not motivated. I also wasn't able to exercise like I wanted for one reason or another (maybe that was the issue) and in the end, I gained a pound which left me completely discouraged. So this week I wasn't a maniac but I tried to get back on that saddle and have a positive attitude and exercise and just continue to eat well (Chipotle and all) and as a result, I lost 4 pounds. I didn't starve myself and I didn't scimp. And now I feel like I'm back to feeling pumped about this journey. In fact, I put on a pair of pants this morning that I kept after cleaning out my closet only with the hopes that one day I'd be able to get back into them and TA DA!!! They fit. And not the kind of fit where I'll be happy when the day is over and I can take them off but they are a comfortable fit! Dare I say...a little loose!?

I was talking to Maggie yesterday and she went to Nordstrom Rack to see if she could find something cute to wear for her party on Saturday (she did apparently...we'll see). She was saying how nice it was to actually try on clothes and not come out feeling down about her body image. The weight loss and clothes fitting again is great but the best thing is I'm not down about myself. I don't feel like I have to avoid looking in the mirror. It's not constantly on my mind. I don't lie in bed with with the mantra constantly going through my head, "I've got to do something!" I'm doing something and it's actually not that hard. And on those days or weeks where things don't go my way, I'm starting to feel like it will be okay and I'll get back to where I need to be.

K - I'm done with my self-reflection.

So YAY!!! It's Friday! So happy! We've got nothing planned for tonight but we'll be heading to Columbus on Saturday. I'm not really sure what time we'll go up but I want to avoid football traffic as much as possible. They play in Columbus, of course. Most likely we'll leave around noon.

Puppy news: My boys are better but Scout is not quite up to par. The problem is he likes to go out into the yard and eat crap and then he gets sick. The doc says that when they do that, they're trying to ingest something that's missing in their diet. Well, I don't know any mammal that needs sticks, dirt, leaves etc. in their diet. Maybe fiber? Anyway - all was well until about 4:15 this morning when he threw up again. And it looked like a pile of dirt. But, he rallied and got up and ate but his energy level just isn't what it should be. Which means Boo's energy isn't what it should be. So they're kind of lazy right now but I think they're on an upswing. They better be...they need to stop worrying their momma!

Okay well, that's all I've got. Today will be a crazy day at work. Freshmen are doing this "Redo" day all day which means half the teachers are involved; add to that the teachers that are out for the day, we are short 13 subs. That's crazy! Sounds like a movie day to me!

Happy Friday! Later!

Sick Puppies

My night was long last night but was slightly longer than I had anticipated because when I got home, my puppies were sick. And they're still sick. They've both been throwing up (dry heaving) much of the night, however, no diarrhea so far. I tried to feed them a little bit this morning and they both ate but I think Boo just went out and threw up. Poor little babies. I hate to leave them like this. Thankfully Jim will be home for a bit and can keep an eye on them. I'm sure they probably ate something stupid in the back yard (they'll eat just about anything)...of course they did. And what one does, the other follows. Poor little Scoutie is upstairs moaning in bed. Literally, when I got ready and was about to come downstairs, I went to hug him on the bed and he just sort of moaned. Pitiful! Fingers crossed that they get over this quickly.

Last night was productive. I had one meeting and she actually showed up early (she always does). I managed to get paperwork complete on the IEP I had yesterday as well as getting two more IEPs mostly done! I did some copying and a ton of grading. Woot! I feel like I can finally breathe at school...only took...nearly the whole first quarter!

Can I just say that having parent/teacher conferences on a Wednesday BLOWS!? I know I already mentioned this but I just needed to say it again. I kept thinking last night, "Well, at least tomorrow is Friday," and then cried a little when I realized it wasn't!

One bonus about last night: I finally got to eat a little Chipotle! I've been craving it a bit but was waiting for a late night at school. I found online all the things I could have without blowing my diet and it was delicious! I got the chicken bowl with both beans, light rice, corn salsa, hot salsa, and lettuce. No cheese and I brought my own fat free sour cream to school so my meal was only 8 points. Not bad! I will NOT be getting their hot salsa anymore, by the way. I've been noticing more and more that it's getting way too spicy (and I like some spice) but last night was the final straw. That's okay - I like their other salsas.

My Kuerig at home busted so I had to get a replacement yesterday after school. I opted for a Cuisinart brand this time because the Kuerigs just don't last. I read the reviews and people really like the one I bought so YAY! AND BONUS! It makes 12 ounce cups! The other ones I've owned? Their largest is 10 oz.

And that's all I've got. I'm going to go hug on my babies and then head out. Happy Thursday! One more day! Later!

Long Wednesday

It always seems to happen that when I have a long day at work, Jim ends up on 2nd shift. That's true again tonight and the boys couldn't be happier because they should only be in their cages today for a couple hours. Jim will leave around 4:00 or 4:30 and I'll be home around 7:30. Good for me too that they won't be too hyped up. However, on a long day like today will be, I can never come right home and go to sleep.

So far, I have one meeting scheduled with a parent of a junior who always shows up. She makes appointments with all her son's teachers but I'm really just a pop in to say, "Hey" since we communicate all the time. Fingers crossed that Crazy Mom doesn't sign up...I seriously may have to leave if that's the case because I can't trust my admin to show up and I'm NOT meeting with her alone! But, for now (or as of yesterday) she hadn't signed up.

Last night I made a Weight Watchers eggplant Parmesan and it was AMAZING!!! Jim LOVED it and had two pieces. It was only 4 points too. I'll definitely make that again. In fact, it would be a great freezer meal.

I'm wearing one of my new dresses today that I got form Zulily and it's so comfortable. I'm also wearing my new boots that need some breaking in. I hope I don't regret wearing them on my long day. Oh well...I can always take them off for a time while I'm sitting at my desk working all night.

Speaking of which, I have an IEP today so I'll be able to get all that paperwork completed tonight. I'll then finish up an IEP I have scheduled on Nov. 2nd and HOPEFULLY start and finish another IEP I have on Nov. 27th. After that, I'll be in the clear until my December IEPs come due. Woot!

And that's all I've got. No real puppy stories except Scout stole my underwear this morning. I had told him "NO!" but then while I showered, he snuck in and scampered off with them. That boy! I love him!

K - happy Wednesday! Later!

Oh Boy...Here We Go

And my school is in the news...again! Another instance where my principal used the "n" word. Granted, it was in the context of its inappropriateness but he's had this issues before and it made the news before so you'd think he'd learn from it. People (me included) don't ever think this word should be used...not even in context. (I can't even read the word aloud when I'm reading a novel to the kids where it shows up...To Kill a Mockingbird, The Help, Secret Life of Bees.) To make it worse, he said it TO a black student. Now from what I heard, this was a situation where the student had used the word with his friends and was reported to the administration so the principal was using it in that way but I still disagree with it. Of COURSE there are people in the school saying this is typical behavior of the principal and that he is a closet racist so there's no surprise that he said the word but you'd think, like I said before, that with him having made the news for this same issue in the past, he'd know better. Maybe the adage, "When you know better you do better" just doesn't pertain to him, huh? I'm sort of finding that out.

Anyway...what else? Oh, of course the boys love tissues. However, I didn't realize that they'd go to the lengths to steal a WHOLE box and proceed to demolish it. In the family room. And then in the living room. At 5:30 in the morning. When I'm running late! Man! Scout got a stern talking to and a shaking finger in the face so now he's sulking on the couch. That won't stop him in the future so I'll have to put my tissue boxes out of reach from now on. Just one more thing.

Love those boys though! They're kooks!

Nothing going on tonight. I mowed the lawn yesterday so I'll be able to get on the recumbent tonight when I get home. I need to figure out my dinner tonight. With the weekend away, I didn't make a menu so now I'm scrambling. Oh, that's right...I'm making WW Eggplant Parmesan. Can't wait...should be yummy! I hope. You see, I have an eggplant I need to use so that's why I'm making this particular recipe.

Okay well, like I've said, I'm running behind so need to get my tail into gear. Happy Tuesday! Later!

Whirlwind Weekend

Emphasis on the wind! I'm telling you - and I think I say this every time I return from the Bay - I've never seen it so crazy windy up there. It was hard to walk at times and the spray from the lake was even hitting the house. It's hard to explain it if you aren't there but it really is amazing. (And BTW - that wind doesn't scare me.) Even more amazing was the fact that even with the wind and crazy swells on the west side of the island, the ferry never stopped running. Those guys are amazing at the Miller...I'm never worried about their ability to get us to and from safely.

Here's what we did on our weekend: Had lunch, enjoyed cocktails, watched football, had delicious dinners; Maggie, Bussie and I took a nice long walk to the monument while Charlie and Eva rode their bikes. It was a gorgeous Saturday (until it wasn't) so we got as much walking and outdoor time in as we could. Jim stayed home to work on a bit of clean up and winter prep. And that was about it. It was lovely and now I'm ready for Fall to rear its head.

Speaking of which, these leaves are driving me crazy because we're almost into November and they're mostly still green! That means I'm going to be cleaning up leaves well into December and it's going to be freezing. Thankfully, however, this year, Jim's feeling well enough to help me. Last year, I had to do the leaves mostly by myself and if you know my yard, that isn't an easy feat.

So apparently the wind here was crazy as well. In fact, when we got home, the back gate to our fence, which goes out into the woods, was slightly ajar (I'm thinking the wind knocked it off its thingy). I didn't really notice until I heard Boo barking his "Scout's-stuck" bark. So I looked out and called for the boys but only Boo came. I looked in the three spots where the pups can get trapped and then realized that back fence was open. Ugh! I, however, didn't panic (Jim did) because I knew where he would go: Straight to visit the other pups in the area. There's a Golden right behind us and then Reggie next door, who was out. So I popped into the back woods, calling for Scout and squeaking one of his toys. A neighbor behind us yelled that he was in his yard so I headed there and little Mr. Wiggle Butt was happily wagging his tail, visiting. I called his name and he came right to me. Silly, good boy. He definitely seemed a bit nervous as though he wasn't quite sure how he got to where he was. The funniest part of the whole thing was that Boo could have easily followed him but didn't because he's a chicken shit. Can't say I mind it in that particular situation.

Okay well I know I have a shit ton of grading to do so I'd best get a move on. Happy Monday to all. This week is going to BLOW because I have Parent/Teacher Conferences. I HATE when they aren't on a Thursday...it makes the week so slow and sucky. I don't know why they've moved them to a Wednesday! Dumb asses! Oh well...this too shall pass. K - later!

Alarm Clock

I finally got to hear the alarm clock this morning and it was everything I'd hoped it would be. Not too loud and not too obnoxious. It didn't startle the dogs which is good because when that happens, I usually get two dogs running around on my face. Anyway - I was up bright and early and am just finishing up breakfast so I can hit the road.

I had a HORRIBLE dream about Scout! He was apparently - in my dream - born with a defect that which affected his back and walking. As he aged, he got worse and in my dream I had to put him down. It was horrible. Thankfully I woke up quickly from the dream and realized it was a dream and didn't dwell in it and managed to fall back into a sweet slumber without dreams. When I got up I hugged him tightly! Love that wiggly boy!

Last night was a bit of a whirlwind. Jim was a bit late getting home which meant we were late dropping his car off and so my schedule of getting everything ready didn't quite match my plans. But that was okay...I still managed to get everything done and relax for about an hour before bed.

So Jim and I will be out of here in just a bit. I hope to catch a ferry in time for a (late) lunch on the Bay. Our plans for the weekend? Just enjoying the island and hanging out with each other...do a little celebrating for Maggie's birthday.

K - well, I'd best get a move on. Still have to change the sheets and pack up the cooler. Happy Friday...safe travels to me and Maggie and family. Later!

Even Roosters Sleep Later!

These damn puppies (instigated by Boo) got up at 4:00 AM and proceeded to wrastle on top of me...my head really. I kept saying, "Uh uh!" But they weren't having it. So after pushing them off the bed a half dozen times, I finally got up. They better not do this to Diane this weekend or they're going to get it!

Hmm...seems like the issue with the rooster-pups is my fault. I was just reading that you should "never feed you pups right when you get up in the morning." Makes sense. I guess I'm senseless. I'll work on that next week.

And Jim's watching Bewitched right now. Best part of that show: the laugh track. I used to watch that show every day. Funny!

Jimmy took Boo to the vet to get his shots and nails clipped. Apparently they couldn't get to all his nails because his temperature rose from the stress. Poor baby. I guess he got up to 104 (obviously not as detrimental to his health being a dog and all) and they had to stop. That boy is a basket of nerves and that certainly isn't going to help his feelings toward the vet. Oh well...he was fine once he got home and got to see is brother.

Speaking of which, while Jimmy was at the vet with baby Boo, I took Scout for a LONNNG walk. So long, in fact, that he tried to lay down mid-walk. I don't know why...it was cool and windy and beautiful. He's just a baby.

Paul Ryan is such a tool! Thank the baby Jesus he's out soon!

So tonight Jim and I will take his car to the shop to leave for a brake job over the weekend and then head to dinner. Since we're headed North tomorrow (after my appointment) I don't want to cook. I think we'll go to LaRosa's (Jim's choice) but I'm not sure what I'll get that is WW friendly. I'm trying to be REALLY good because I know I'm going to be BAD over the weekend. Hard to pass of a pizza...I may just have to have a piece and a salad. We'll see.

And that's all I've got. I guess since I have a lot of time (thanks a lot puppies!) I'll blow my hair dry.

Happy Thursday - I'll most likely post tomorrow since I plan on getting up early (before my appointment) so see you then! Later!

52 & Phenomenal!!!

And lets give a shout out birthday WOOT to Trippy!!! Hope you have a fab day and hope to see you soon! Cards and shots!!!

Bad News: We did NOT win the Mega millions last night. And then they did a story on the news about two lotteries - Mega and Powerball - which together are up to over a billion bucks and Jim said, "I'm just not going to be happy unless I win them both." I have a feeling Jim's not going to be happy. I'd be happy with just one. Hell, I'd be happy to win half of one. I'd be happy with a million! Fingers crossed.

IEP at 7:30 this morning...apparently I don't have coverage for my kids in science...oh well...not my job to find coverage so I guess they'll just be in my room without supervision...doing nothing.

Lets see...Anne, Madison and Max came over to see the boys yesterday (Max is on Fall break). They were so happy - the boys - to see them. There was a little whining at the door when they left which is sweet. In is looking quite skinny! She's lost 40 some pounds and looks great!  Not that she didn't before!

Today after school I'll start getting stuff ready to go to PIB. I need to do a bit of cleaning, laundry, packing and grocery shopping. I'll do that today because tomorrow, Jim will be taking Boo to get his nails clipped. Good luck! That boy is a terror when his nails are trimmed.

Okay well I'd best mosey. Happy Wednesday! Later!

50 Never Looked So Good!!!

Happy birthday Maggie!!! 50 Years Old!!! Woot! Hope I look as good in two years when I hit that milestone! Hope you have a great day...can't wait to spend the weekend with you! Shots for sure!

There's really no other news but that to talk about today!

It's cold.

It's Tuesday.

My puppies are happy and good. Max is supposed to come see them today.

I bought a new pair of boots. I have a problem you see. I've been looking to replace the boots I have (one pair)...they are my favorite pair and they've gotten to the point where they are looking quite ratty but they are no longer made and I'm completely bummed. However, I found a very similar pair last night on DSW and voila! I ordered them. So happy...can't wait for them to arrive...I hope they fit. It's the same brand as what I had so I think they will. We'll see.

And that's all I've got. Time to get my face on. Happy Tuesday! Later!

Weekend Tidbits

(Or as I say in my head - Bidtits!)

I woke up to some lovely news! Harry and Meghan are pregnant! Sweet. I and the rest of the world called it! I figured they would be quick to start their family. I think it's funny that I was switching channels last week and for a second Access Hollywood was on and they ladies on there were talking about all the rumors about Meghan being pregnant and they showed a pic of her (in a skinny skirt with shirt tucked in) and they said, "She's not pregnant!!! Look at that body!" Guess you were wrong ladies!

Lots of little stuff this weekend. I went to the pet store and finally got the boys new collars and new tags. They didn't have the tags that you can attach directly to the collar so they don't jingle which means...they now jingle. I think they like it. They certainly aren't bothered by it and so far they haven't used the tags to pull on each other.

Additionally, I went to Aldi and stocked up on some of the deals they have. They have a Fit & Active bread that is only one point per slice and while I've pretty much cut out bread (too many points for one slice - 3) it's nice to have an option. I had a couple pieces this morning with my Instant Pot egg casserole!

Yup, yesterday I made a breakfast casserole in my Instant Pot, which I can have for the the week. Basically I just did a Denver Omelet (eggs, peppers, mushrooms, onion, Canadian bacon) and it's only 2 points per serving! Nice! So easy to make too!

We watched the Bengals game. UGH! What an ugly loss. I've said forEVER that Dre Kirkpatrick is a menace with the penalties he causes and yesterday was a perfect example. I will say he cost us that game and he needs to get his ass chewed out for it! ARG!

Should be an easy week. I'm off Friday - doctor's and then PIB later in the day! Can't wait!

Bought a new toaster oven. The one I have is probably 13 years old...and didn't seem to be heating as efficiently as it used to. Excited! Also bought new doggie coats for my big boys who don't fit in last years coats.

Oh, and we have several fires in the fireplace this weekend which was just lovely. The boys are NOT into the fire this year, however. Remember last year I couldn't keep them off the hearth. Boo is a bit afraid of the fire (maybe the heat wigs him out) and Scout just ignores it. Maybe once there is really frigid weather they'll change their tune. They still love the logs, however, and are constantly trying to chew on it. Annoying!

K - time to get a move on. Rainy and yucky out there today but should be clearing out by this evening. Later! Happy Monday!

Off The Rails

First of all - down another 2 pounds! Woot! That's over 20 for anyone counting...like me! YAY! I wore a pair of pants this week that were certainly too big - I could take them off without unbuttoning or unzipping. For me, that's a downside of losing weight: Having to buy new clothes because I don't like to shop. Oh well...that's not going to stop me.

So I haven't talked about Dezi yet this year have I? (For those catching up, he's a kid with autism - not on my caseload. I have him a couple times in my classes and he can be very exhausting.) So yesterday I was teaching Earth Science and we're on a chapter about the Solar System and we were talking about Venus and the Greenhouse Effect. So he raises his hair and asks me what he can do about his father who doesn't care about the environment. I tried to quickly give him an "answer" and move on but he wasn't having any of it. And this has been a major problem of late: He tries to steer conversations and my class in a direction of his choosing - often completely off topic and sometimes slightly inappropriate. So of course when I tried to get him back to the lesson at hand he started his, "But, but, but...NO!!!! I don't want to die an early death!!! I want to save the environment! What about the little African children!? I don't want Venice to flood! NO!!!" And mind you, this is all being said with a whining voice that gets louder and louder as he rants. I finally had to just say, "DEZI! Stop! This is MY class!!! You are not teaching it! You need to get a hold of yourself!" And then when he doesn't, like a kindergarten teacher I have to start counting down, "5! 4-3-2-1!!!" He usually doesn't ever let me get to 1 before he settles down.

Apparently it didn't end there either. I guess when he got to lunch, (It was sushi Thursday) they were out of sushi and he lost his mind.  Started yelling and punching himself in his head. Ugh!

It's definitely a "Calgon take me away" kind of night! It's going to be cold, rainy and trump is in town! Might as well, treat myself to a nice bubble bath and then enjoy the fire that I'll finally have in my fireplace! Woot!

And that's about all I've got. Today is the end of 1st quarter! 25% of the way to summer vacation! Halfway to Winter break! 2 1/2 months from Christmas! HIP HIP!!! HOORAY!

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

Unshaved Legs

(That would be a good name for a bar, don't you think? Not a restaurant...especially not a breakfast restaurant but definitely a bar!!!)

I was going to wear one thing but decided upon something else AFTER I had taken a shower and of course I didn't shave my legs and of course I'm wearing a dress. Oh well...no one will notice...except for me...and all of you who are reading this that will stare at my legs if you see me. (That might be one person by the way.) No biggie.

Yesterday was fine...for me. I got a TON of shit done. Got two upcoming IEPs 1/2 way written; finished nearly all of my progress reports (waiting on related services to do their part so I can print, upload and send). Not bad. I felt really bad for the kids, however. They tested solidly from 8:30 until 2:08 with one lunch break (1/2 hour) in the middle. Two of the 8 kids assigned to me were absent but the other 6 really seemed to try hard. Thank God that day is over.

The weather has finally turned and it is lovely out there. Breezy, cool and getting cooler through the day. I think the boys are really enjoying it too...they are VERY rambunctious this morning.

Scout is pretty much back to normal, by the way. I've had to break up some rough playing a couple times (no fighting...just rough play that they're mommy doesn't like) so that's good. Here's hoping these boys don't ever get sick or hurt again because it freaks me out!

Jim's job tonight, by the way, is to prep the fireplace for the weekend. We are supposed to have chilly (dare I say cold) evening weather this weekend and I anticipate our first fire for the season. So excited!!!

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

Not To Be A Debbie Downer...

...but today is going to absolutely SUCK!!! I mean, we all know testing sucks and these poor kids are put through the ringer but it also stinks for the teachers who have to monitor and administer these damn tests! Today, I have a group of kids (8) who will be testing from approximately 8:00-12:15...at least. Because they have extended time so if they decide to really try (and I looked at my list of kids and truthfully that doesn't seem likely) they could go beyond lunch. But even if they don't, after lunch, until 2:28, I have these kids for some other shit. It's complete bullshit and I DREAD this day. No kid should have to sit in the same room for 7 hours! Whoever decided this shit needs to be one of the monitors just once! UGH! 

Scout: (I should have started with this...sorry) He's doing well. Jim got him in to see the vet at 10:15 yesterday and it turns out that he's either got the beginnings of hip dysplasia (I don't think that's it) or he pulled something in his hips or back. He cried in pain when he was probed in his hip area and my belief is he hurt himself playing with his brother on Sunday. Those boys play so hard and Scout's NEVER shown signs of any issues before, which is why I think this is just a play injury. He'll be on painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs for the next two weeks and then we'll do a recheck. If he's still having issues, we'll do an x-ray. 

He seems to be nearly back to normal. When I got home yesterday, he was outside and when he saw me, he did his normal high-tail-it-for-a-hug run. He and Boo played a lot yesterday but toward dinner, he took a rest. He actually slept on the bed last night too, which is unusual (normally he's on the pillow near my side of the bed). We spooned for a while last night...until Jim got home. So happy he's feeling better and so is Boo! 

Jim was on 2nd shift last night since he needed to take Boo in but he's back to regular shift today. Who knows what the rest of the week has in store. 

I can't believe it's already Wednesday! Wow! 

Okay - well, I'd best head up and out...so I can get to school and sit on my ass. Oh well, on the positive side, I should be able to get all my progress reports completed and fill out a shit ton of forms I was sent yesterday for kids getting re-evaluated. 

K - happy Wednesday! Later!

Sick Scouty

I'm not sure what's up with Scout but something isn't right. Since yesterday, he's just been lethargic and not wanting to play or move much. (Boo is NOT happy! He goes from sitting in front of him barking trying to get him to play one minute to licking his ears and comforting him the next.) Scout has been eating and he'll get up to follow me if I go upstairs but other than that, he just wants to sit. He went outside this morning to pee when we got up but I don't know what his "movements" are like. I do know that all was well Sunday, however. It caused me to toss and turn all night last night and I probably got about 4 hours sleep. Jim is going to stay home today and call the vet as soon as they open. Hopefully they'll be able to see him right away and we can figure out what's up. Fingers crossed...I hate when my babies are feeling bad. Scares me!

In other news: Can I just say that I can't STAND to look at Mike Dewine!? DUDE! Push your freaking glasses up! He drives me CRAZY!

School: Testing tomorrow. I'm with a group of PSAT kids who have accommodations. I have no idea what I'm going to be doing all day and of course they don't really tell you. Stupid. So sick of all this testing. We have this testing of sophomores, juniors, seniors now. In December there's more testing (Air make ups) and then of course semester exams at the end of December. More testing in March/April and of course final exams at the end of the year. So stupid! I hate it, the kids hate it and I really don't understand why we're constantly doing this to kids!

Okay well, I'm going to go cuddle on my boy for a bit before I have to go. Please keep him in your thoughts...I'm so worried!

K - Happy Tuesday - later!

Can I Get A Who Dey!?

First of all, it was a great game and not just because it was enjoyed outside with the neighbors for the first time in well over a year. (Yep, finally hauled the TV out again and enjoyed this crazy weather.) What really made the game for me was that the Bengals didn't give up because they were down 17-0. They actually pulled through...rallied...kept giving their all. That is a Bengals team that hasn't been the norm in the past...ever years!

And then the Browns win!? (Or Gowns, as mom likes to call them...haha!) I mean, it was an ugly win but a wins a win! Baltimore should be feeling pretty down right now!

Jim and I headed downtown on Saturday for lunch at Yard House and then a restock at Party Source (minus the kegs...still have a keg to empty). I do love me some Yard House, however, it's a bit tough deciding on what to drink there since they have over 100 beers on tap! I finally decided on an Oktoberfest, specifically Goose Island since of their 5 Oktoberfests, I hadn't tried that one before. (There was another Oktoberfest but it was a hefeweizen and I LOATHE hefeweizens!) For lunch, I had my fave cobb salad. I was going to have a turkey burger but when I looked it up on WW point list it was 27 points! Uh, nope...that's more than I'm allotted in a day. Couldn't do it.

Jim got the side yard cleaned up yesterday and reconfigured the fencing that's up to keep the dogs out and of course within 5 minutes, they had figured a way back in. They are magician dogs! It's truly unbelievable.

Other things done this weekend:
Pups got nice walk in both Saturday and Sunday. On my walk with Scout Saturday, a mastiff that lives up the street decided to break her electric fence and come out to see my boy. He was oblivious and didn't even seem to realize that 120 pounds of Penny (the dog) was barking at him from behind. I didn't panic because I knew her and just said, "Penny! Get back in your yard!" And she did
Pups got baths yesterday...because they stunk! I've never had to bathe my dogs as much as I have to bathe these active boys. They're both pretty good...Scout's better than Boo but I can now do it by myself. Wish they would let me cut their nails!
Jim played a game of catch with the neighbor.
Couple of baths for Muir...Calgon take me away!
Got some reading done.

And that's about it. This week we'll finally see some cool weather after Wednesday...can't wait. At school we have a crazy schedule Wednesday for testing...I'm assigned to giving the PSAT. I HATE giving these stupid tests but alas, I'll be able to get some IEP shit done so that's good.

Okay - time to finish getting ready. Happy Monday! Later!

So Good

I was so good this week on my quest toward skinnier jeans. And you know what? It paid off. Down another 2.4 pounds which means that I've passed the halfway mark! 20+ pounds baby! Additionally, I put on a pair of jeans I've not been able to wear lately and I actually have room in them! Woot!

Oh jeez! The boys are WOUND up! They're running around like little maniacs but that's good because they need to get their energy out. Speaking of which, our neighbors, Cari and Jordan, finally finished installing their fence and so have been able to let their puppy out and let him wander. Their fence borders ours and I've been waiting for the boys to figure out there's another dog over there. Well, Boo got hip last night. And boy did he get some soaking from my water launcher. I cannot have a little maniac barking, snarling and possibly digging at the fence line. Gotta nip that shit in the bud! I think after about 3 soakings, he caught on that I didn't like his behavior. Turkey!

The weekend: Well, I think Jim and I might go downtown tomorrow and have lunch before heading to Party Source. We need to exchange the kegs - not that I'm drinking a lot - but the one has been empty for a while and the other is nearly empty. Plus I need me some vodka and Skinnygirl! Plus, I've been craving a Yard House salad! And maybe we'll have a beer while there. Little celebration.  Other than that, we have no plans. Should be a relaxing weekend...hot though.

So I don't know if you know it about Jim but he is an old man in terms of his aches and pains. When he gets up from a chair, it takes him 5 minutes (it seems) to get up and then another 5 to shake out the stiffness before he can walk "normally". What I've just discovered, however, is this may be a bit of Jim-playing-the-drama card! See, the boys just ran outside and proceeded to bark so Jim popped up (literally popped) and walk-ran to the deck to soak the boys. I'm not kidding...he was like lightening (compared to his normal gait). A little breeze even swept past me, tickling the back of my neck as he went past. I'm going to have to keep this in my back pocket so the next time I'm lying on the couch and the dogs bark and he says to me, "Can you? I'm just so stiff!" I can say, "Moved like lightning this morning though didn't you!?"

I kid, by the way...I know how hard Jim works and how stiff he gets by the end of the day. Add to that the bursitis he suffers in his left knee...well, dude deserves a break.

K - I'm out. Lets get this Friday over at work so I can have a cocktail later!  Later!

Why Isn't It Friday Yet?

Boo got up this morning at 4:39, sat serenely at Jim's head (facing Jim) and yawned while making a noise that sounded very similar to a rooster. I guess he was ready to get up. I, however, wasn't so I did my "Uh-uh!!!" and he laid back down for another 10 minutes. Unfortunately, I was up but didn't want to give him the satisfaction mistaken idea that he gets to dictate when we get up. Plus, the auto set to my Kuerig wasn't set to turn on for another 5 minutes so wait he must! Little turkey.

Jim's finally off 2nd shift...for now. Poor guy got up yesterday with me (he couldn't sleep), was up all day, cleaned the house and then had to go to work at 4:00ish. Home at 11:00ish and ready to go again (sort of...he's currently sitting in the recliner sipping coffee). I'll be excited to make an actual meal tonight rather than munching on leftovers like I've been doing for the past several days. Not that I mind...my leftovers are quite delicious but you know, it gets tedious.

What else? I have a little Houdini on my hands. Boo somehow has managed to get inside the fenced off area where Jim seeded and hayed. It doesn't matter how many times we go out and reinforce, he keeps finding a way in. Scout, of course, hasn't figured it out, however. Actually, I think Scout KNOWS how to get in but he's a little pleaser and doesn't want to put his Mommy out knowing how much it irks me when Boo does it.

Okay - well, that's all I've got. I have another IEP set for October so much of my down time today will be spent working on that. This is for a kid whose parents are divorced, he lives with his dad and there is a TON of contention between mom and my student. I think part of the problem is that mom and dad both talk trash about each other to the kid (or maybe it's just the dad and that's why my kid hates his mom) but I've gotten pulled into it a couple times. Last week the mother emailed asking me  to ask her son if he was getting her texts because he hadn't answered her and she was wondering if she was blocked. So I asked and he got this jerky little smirk on his face so I knew he was getting her texts. I said, "You know what? You're in 11th grade now. Act like it. Whatever is going on with you and your mom, isn't my business but don't be a jerk. She's still your mother...answer her!" Apparently he did because Tuesday, I heard him talking to another student saying that his mom sent him a text asking if she could take him to dinner. My student said to the kid he was talking to, "I texted her back and said 'why would I want to go out to dinner with you?'" And then he proceeded to tell the other kid that he sent his dad a text about the exchange and his dads response was "lol". Nice. I simply turned to him and said, "You know, E (kids name) you make your own life...set your own destiny. If you want a difficult life full of angst, keep that up but there's no reason to be a jerk. Think about the people you purposely hurt because you're only hurting yourself." He doesn't get it though.  To emotionally immature.

Okay - I'm out. Later!