Wouldn't it be nice?

The Beach Boys still got it. No, they didn't come out in wheelchairs. Here are some pics from the concert. Totally worth being exhausted on Friday for work. Hearing, and of course singing along with, Kokomo will go down as one of my favorite memories of all time. Waiting patiently for the boys to come out Rockin' out Beach Boy


Can't take pictures

Wordless Wednesday

Two words...

Fucken awesome. Yes, I know I misspelled the f-bomb. But it was for dramatic effect. Our softball game tonight was fucken awesome. First of all, it was in the 90's instead of 100's. Great--that's like fall weather around here. Second, almost all of our team showed up. Third, we really brought the energy again. We are all yelling for each other, being positive and such. You really would have thought we were playing for the championship-that's how we roll. We were like that last week and it rocked--even though we didn't win. Anyway, we ended the game with some lightning round type stuff. Since we were tied and time was up, it went to one pitch softball. You get one pitch, it's either: a ball-you walk, a strike-you're out, a hit-you hope you get on base, or a foul-you're out. Talk about your crazy pressure! We were home so we were in the field first. We held them. So, all we had to do was score one run. So we bat and it's going ok. And it all ends, are you ready for this?, with a classic case of monkey in the middle-fielders trying to tag out a runner from third to home. A teammate had decided to run from third to home on an overthrow. But, as they threw home, the damn catcher caught it. So as he's almost home, he decided to go back to third, causing them to throw the ball back to third, and at one point we thought he would fall, but he recovered and somehow manages to make it home before they throw it back to home! Oh my god. Are you totally stoked yet? Because I haven't even told you how our whole team ran out screaming to greet him on the field. It was insane. No other teams are quite excited like us. Guess what? We don't care either. We have so much fun and play with our hearts that this victory might as well have been an olympic gold. And it is our 2nd win of 9 games. Do you feel me now?

Boo-yah boot camp

And so it begins. Boot camp, that is. Today was our first day. I figured that a trainer that's coming to my school, for 3 days a week, with my friends also working out wasn't a bad deal. I need a jump start to get me motivated. It wasn't too bad, but tomorrow will be "real" boot camp. Apparently today was more like a warm up. We did baseline assessments (that's teacher talk) to see just how out of shape we are. Ha! We had 3 minutes to complete each task and see how we roll. Here's how I stack up: sit ups (the real ones!)-30, squats-80, push-ups (the girl ones!)-16. Not bad for a day's work. Or whatever. It's obvious all my strength is in my legs. I plan to use that to my advantage, not sure how yet. I'll keep you posted.

Anyways, should be very interesting!! It was fun, good to get away from work (even if it is only to the gym at our school) and be with some good peeps. Looking forward to tomorrow, even though we have a 6:30 game. By the way, this is not our best time slot. That-game-we-shall-never-speak-of-again happened at that time slot. Maybe boot camp will be our answer--loosen us up, ya know? We shall see. I'll keep you posted on that too. Unless it's bad, in which case I'll skim over the score part and look away if you ask too many details.

Fly on the wall

Things overheard on our Friday of the first week of school:


1. I only listen to kids who raise their hands.
2. Can you play "Beat it"? That's the only song I know how to dance to. (A kid after my own heart.)
3. What are you doing? What SHOULD you be doing? (I say this ALL. DAY. LONG.)
4. He's playing with your balls!



Have a great weekend y'all!!

Wordless Wednesday

Softball. Ouchy.

Precious moments

You know how 3rd graders are really 2nd graders (meaning they're still so small!)...well I forget sometimes that they can only handle so much. At some point today we were putting labels on our "Take Home Folders". It took about 5 minutes to pass out the labels and have them put them ON TOP and IN THE CENTER of their folder and write their name in permanent marker, BUT ONLY WRITE ON YOUR FOLDER, IT'S PERMANENT MARKER! We're almost done with the whole scene when one of my students holds up his spirals (or composition books, or journals, or notebooks as I've already explained the fifteen times, each kid insisting on calling them a different name) and asks "What do we do with the spirals??" Oh my. I can't even tell you the conversations we had about spirals earlier. We barely made it out alive. I'm all..."Are we talking about spirals now?" And of course his response, "Oh. no." To which I answer in a slightly higher pitched voice, "Then put the spirals away. Now. And nobody gets hurt." Organizing supplies when you overestimate how many directions 8 year olds can take at a time can be a real mess.

Another funny thing was little Johnny. He's a literal type of guy. Takes everything at face value. Gotta love him. He comes up to the lunch line out of breath. So, of course I ask him if he was running. He looks at me for a while, and I can tell that he's really thinking, "Man! Do I lie or tell the truth. Lie or tell the truth, man!?" While this battle is going on inside his head, I'm waiting patiently. He finally responds and tells me he was actually jogging. As if he was getting a quick workout in before lunch. I smiled, told him this was his warning, there is no jogging in the cafeteria, hugged him and told him I appreciated his honesty.

Back to School Bonanza

Tomorrow is the first day of school. I think I am ready. It's my 5th year of teaching, and I'm not nervous yet. Trying to adopt a new attitude. Let things come and go as they may. Don't sweat the small stuff. Que sera, sera. This too shall pass. You know. All those cliche sayings.

And now a little story about my 2nd grade teacher. Her name was Miss A-hole. I have changed her name to protect her identity. But it rhymes with hole and starts with a "c". I digress. I remember that year because she was a very scary teacher. She was a large lady. If we got in trouble she would say, "You're in my doghouse!" This explains my aversion to doghouses-but that's neither here nor there. I can remember like it was yesterday talking to one of my friends on the first day asking her if we had to know our times tables in 2nd grade. I didn't know them and I guess I was afraid we would have some sort of test on them the first day. Ridiculous, I know. But I was nervous about that nonetheless.

That year I misplaced my spelling book (actually it was stolen by somebody at daycare--you know who you are!). I was terrified to tell Miss A-Hole. My parents thought I was ridiculous. So, my dad took me to school to explain that we misplaced it (code for it was stolen at daycare). To my surprise she didn't put me in a doghouse and the book actually turned up at daycare in the next few days. Whew. That was a close one. On another occasion we were learning our spelling words. I could not remember if the "u" or "i" came first in the word "building". She got so frustrated with me and was very short. As if having a "u" really makes any sense. If you ask me, it should be spelled "bilding". Well out of fear I learned the word and can still spell it today. Despite her, I actually turned out to be a good speller. All my friends would study their spelling words and I wouldn't. I could still ace the tests. Think they were jealous. Ha!

On yet another sad occasion in 2nd grade, my friend Katie and I were arguing one day over who got to go first in line. In a very dramatic way, Miss A-Hole came over and snatched my Honor Badge (which you had to earn by being respectful and responsible and in turn could go play outside after you finished your lunch) off of my shirt. It all happened in slow motion. To me it was like she had run over my dog. With a doghouse. Even at 7 years old I thought that was a little over the top. Didn't I at least deserve a warning? I was in no way a problem child. I barely even spoke! And, AND if she had given her class a number order in line, this could have all been avoided.

Here's a little story about my 3rd grade teacher, Mrs. Staton. I didn't change her name. :) She was so loving, patient, quiet and calm. She taught us cursive. Her and my mom have the most amazing cursive handwriting ever. She would write sweet notes to us. One day when I was sick she insisted that I go to the nurse. You see, I was shy and didn't like any attention, so I tried to tough it out. I know--hard to believe I was shy. Nothing like I am now! We also had a 3rd grade play "Goin' Buggy". I was a firefly. I don't remember the particulars of that year like I remember in 2nd grade. But I do remember how she made me feel. I was special, smart, and loved. She made me feel good about myself.

I tell these stories not to evoke sympathy from you, my readers. But to point out that I learned a valuable lesson in all of this. Love the kids. Even if you don't really love them, find something to love in all of them. Every word, every action should be analyzed. You never know how the little ones will take it. Now, I'm not saying that I'm perfect. I mess up sometimes. And if I do, I acknowledge it, apologize and move on. We are only human. But I want to be a human that my kids know loves them and that they feel it.

Here is my teaching philosophy: love 'em. I kind of stole that one from my mom. But I believe teaching is about relationships. That's when you get real learning. I want to have fun with my kids and laugh. I tell them all kinds of things about me and share my true self. I know all kinds of things about them--maybe stuff their parents don't even know. I have to remember all of this when it gets hard. And it is a hard job. We put in countless hours and more importantly we put in our hearts. At night when I'm trying to sleep, sometimes little faces pop into my head. That never happened when I worked at the law firm. I forgot about it as soon as I left. Teachers worry that we're not doing a good job or that this or that didn't get done. t's easy to get wrapped up in the day to day that we forget just how important a job it is. We have the power to make or break children. Like the Shamu Show at Seaworld says, "Believe!".

Have a great year teachers (and kids)!!!!

Aruba, Jamaica oooh I want to take you...

As I'm watching an awesome episode of "Full House", texting Lori about how Jesse and the Rippers are in Japan singing "Forever", I'm reminded that we are going to see the Beach Boys in September. I can't even tell you how excited we are! After we bought our tickets we had to YouTube the episode when Uncle Jesse plays with the Boys. It was awesome to relive it. The Beach Boys rock! Cody is a little worried they may come out...and be in wheelchairs. Let's hope not! But I'm sure they'll bring it, even in the wheelchairs.

I can remember being in elementary school, in the top bunk of our bunk bed, with my grey jambox, listening to hours of tapes of the Beach Boys. Such simpler times!

To show my love of the Beach Boys, I thought I'd post a picture of our cat, Kokomo. Yes, I named her Kokomo. The song was veeeery popular when she was born.

Wordless Wednesday

night night

Bruisers pull off moral victory

Well folks. After game 1 of our double header tonight, it looked like we may be getting worse! It was like the Bad News Bears. The ones from the 70's, not that remake b.s. Seriously. 6:30 games are just not cutting it for us. The 100 plus degree heat literally sucks the life out of you. I mean, I don't even want to walk to my car in the heat, much less move my body around chasing a ball or run to the bases (if I should happen to get a hit!). It was bruuuutaaaaal. The mistakes were infinite and it seemed that the game would never end. But it did. And I have to be honest here...I wanted to go home! I was in no hurry to have a repeat of the first game. That would just be too much to handle. Too much heartbreak. Especially when next we were playing the undefeated team. Quite possibly one of the best teams in our league.

But, in true baseball fashion showing that it is anybody's game, we managed to play well in our 2nd game! We looked like a real team. And I don't just mean because we all have matching shirts. We were actually making plays and getting outs. Then we were hitting better. We were really giving them a run for their money. The other team was rattled. They didn't expect to get hustled (ok--not hustled, but I think they thought they would cream us!) Well, they didn't cream us. They did win, but damnit we didn't give up and came back from an embarrassing loss to keep up with them and even led at some point.

Way to go Bruisers!

I choose to...

go to work tomorrow. I choose to go to work tomorrow. I choose to go to work tomorrow.

It's not working!!

Happy B-day Dad!! (it's a big one!)

Today is my dad's birthday. I'm lucky enough not to be in school, along with my mom, so us 3 could celebrate his special day. First we went out to eat. Then we went to get my parents their passports--I was so proud of them. Then we went to Shepler's so he could get some new ostrich cowboy boots.

My dad is an absolute original. I think most dads are. He is a little crazy, very traditional, a true Texan, country, vocal, loves to make corny jokes and says things like "hotter than the hinges of hell" and "speed on brother, hell ain't half full". He is the most calm, patient person I know (most of the time). One of my favorite stories about him, that my mom still tells, is how when I was three I was home alone with my dad. Well, he needed to go to the hardware store. So, he got me dressed and let me wear my cowgirl boots with shorts. He saw nothing wrong with that. Of course when we were at the store, we saw someone we knew. Later on when my mom discovered I had been out in public like that and someone we knew actually witnessed it, she was mortified. It's awesome that dads don't think of stuff like that. It makes me smile that he didn't care what it looked like. Why not wear your boots with shorts?

Well, as dad was getting his boots today, I decided to get something at the store too. I haven't had cowgirl boots in years. I can't wait to wear them! And no, I won't be wearing them with shorts. Well, probably not.


Tonight we'll conclude the festivities by watching "An Inconvenient Truth" with Cody when he gets off work. Tomorrow we are off to celebrate by eating some big, juicy steaks at the Hoffbrau. And Sunday we are going to see my aunt so she can take her little brother out to eat.

That's just wrong

Yesterday while it was raining, (yes--it rained on TWO separate occasions yesterday!!) I couldn't help but think of a Jack Handy quote:

“If a kid asks where rain comes from, I think a cute thing to tell him is "God is crying." And if he asks why God is crying, another cute thing to tell him is "Probably because of something you did."”


Here's another one that made me laugh out loud.

"If you think a weakness can be turned into a strength, I hate to tell you this, but that's another weakness."

That guy is profound! His voice really drives the point home.

Deep Thoughts--can you handle it?

Wordless Wednesday

Oh yes I did.

You sure you want me?

So today we had mentor training. If you're lucky enough to be a mentor, you are matched up with a first year teacher (FYT) and you help them in their first year (which is super hard and overwhelming--much like every year of teaching. Ha!). That's a lot of parenthesis for one sentence, but I don't care. :) First of all, every time I heard FYT or saw it written today, Michael Jackson's PYT popped into my head. Second of all, it was probably one of the best trainings I've been to. I learned a lot. I have mentored before, but never been give such clear, explicit instructions and guidelines. The delivery was awesome too. They had decorated the room and had all kinds of treats and toys, etc. And the "aha's" were abundant. "Aha's" are what we call it when you're like "Duh! It makes so much sense now!". Anyways the two things I'm taking away from it are: be positive and check in daily. So that's what I plan to do with my FYT. At one point Anne Marie (former 3rd grade teacher, but we won't get into that) says that mentoring is like walking beside your FYT on this journey. I concurred and asked, "But God, what happened when there was only one set of footprints in the sand?" I always liked that story about God and the footprints. Once we stopped laughing we figured that we would act as God did walking on the beach that day. In other words, we would walk with our mentees until they needed us to carry them. Or the other way around. Whichever happened first. I'm pretty sure someone started singing "What if God was one of us?" too.

Technology at its finest

As Cody and I were sitting around discussing how old our cell phones are (they just make calls, have a camera, and can text message...no internet or apps for us) and how Cody's ringer sounds like an "ole' timey" wall phone, we came up with some interesting tidbits. Cody's phone rang and I asked him if it was Abe Lincoln calling to let him know of the Emancipation Proclamation. I added that in order to keep up a conversation I have to crank my phone (I'm making the motion now with my hands). Cody responded with what you would say to a wrong number,"No, I'm sorry. You called the wrong number. This is 5."

Ahhhh. Phones that just make calls.

As if...

I'm looking for yet another clue that I'm getting older. Here's one for ya. I actually had these thoughts tonight. "Man. I just had 2 1/2 beers tonight. I better rehydrate and drink lots of water to get back on track. I just feel off." I believe the "off" feeling is technically referred to as buzzed.

Wordless Wednesday

Travel size Buddha

Bruisers: Hopes of a winning streak dashed

Um. Well. Our hopes of creating a winning streak were struck down tonight. Here's how it went down.

First game: Hot as hell, got some outs, made some hits, lost. Not too bad.

Hour Break

Second game: A little cooler than hell, finally got some outs, tried to make some more hits, felt like we spent hours in the field, misplaced my positivity, lost. Bad.

During the the last inning of the second game when we were in the field, I almost had to walk off the field with an injury. A butt injury. But (or butt), I held it together until the end of the inning. As a runner was coming to first, I bent down to catch the ball and she ran right into my butt! The nerve. So after that I had a crazy charley horse and was in a lot of pain. Could NOT WAIT for the inning to end. It finally did. And then I had to bat. Man! Hit it right to the first baseman and got out. Damn!

You know what the sad part is? Tonight we had so many fans in the stands!! They were cheering and yelling! I told them to come to our practice. That's where we really bring it.

Two more weeks

You know that feeling you get when you're a kid and summer's over? Yeah it's worse when you're an adult. Once you start hearing commercials about school supplies and "Back to School" specials it's all over. I know how lucky we are to have the summer off--most people don't!! But I feel like as soon as I start to really relax and get in the groove of summer, it's taken from me. Not that I don't love my job--the kids are awesome! But man! Summer is even better when you get to make the decisions. It sure is nice to do whatever you want, whenever you want, and still get paid. So, I plan to enjoy the hell out of these last couple of weeks so I'm refreshed and ready for the little preciouses next year.

Just some food for thought.

Wordless Wednesday will be interrupted to bring you this important message...

We won! We won! We won!

The Backyard Bruisers now have a "dubya". We did it! We won our first game. It was awesome. We almost didn't even know what to do with ourselves. We were hitting (me--most of the time!!), making outs and actually had one inning with "three up, three down" as us ball players like to say. There were no broken noses to report this time and it turns out the heavier bat makes the ball go farther. Who knew?? Now I know that we're out there to have fun, and blah, blah, blah. But damnit! It's not fun if you lose every game. I was raised playing competitive sports. I like to win. Now I understand that it is important how you play the game. But if you play the game well, and if you play against a team that may not be as skilled as you, you win! We needed a win to boost our self esteem. Next week we'll probably be reminded once again that we are a novice team, but let's enjoy being on the winning team for once, shall we?

Wordless Wednesday

Nice moves

Buddha-ful

As most of you may know, I am on a spiritual journey. I halfway joke about it because it's not like I was ever really religious. I was baptized, we went to church most Sundays (I think we stopped sometime when I was in middle school?), I was confirmed and had a name tag. Hell, I even took communion! I haven't been to my church in years and I'm pretty sure they've trashed my name tag.

I started meditating in the last year or so because I have trouble just relaxing sometimes and want to be calmer. After yoga I always feel so relaxed, so thought I'd give meditation a try. Well, in learning about meditation I have learned a little about Buddhism.

So last Sunday I went to a Buddhist center for the "General Program: Prayers for World Peace". It was cool even though I was nervous and I don't know all of the traditions. The lesson for the day was loving people for who they are and not how we feel about them; letting go of things and not being attached; and how all beings want to be happy. Of course we spoke about how that fits into our daily lives. There was also a lot of singing. I didn't sing because I didn't know the songs and I thought mouthing "watermelon" would be inappropriate. Next time, maybe. It was nice to be around a bunch of people who are practicing compassion towards others--it just seems so simple!!

Our homework is to wish true happiness on all beings. Our teacher challenged us to even take it to insects and cockroaches. And defended them in saying how they don't know it's your house. They're just trying to be happy getting some water and food. They have no idea who you are. And I'm all...bust-ed. Was this teacher watching me? Why is he looking right at me? Cockroaches don't count do they? Apparently I have a new challenge in front of me. Don't kill the cockroaches and wish them happiness. Whoa--that's heavy. Later that very day I did get a chance to put it into practice. There was a spider on my bed (I know what you're thinking--do you live in a tent in the backyard? or...get an exterminator already!!) I got it to jump into a cup, put some paper on it and set it free in the backyard. While it scurried off I realized that I forgot to wish it happiness, so I yelled, "I wish you a long and happy life!" I hope it heard me.

On another note, upon coming home and sharing all of my new knowledge with Cody, he said, "I always knew you'd try Buddhism sometime." I was all "Really? I didn't even know I'd try it." To which he replied, "Yeah. Buddhists care about shit. And you care about shit."

And you know what? I do care about shit.



Update: To whomever spit out their gum in the parking lot which in turn caused me to get it all over both of my shoes, on my leg, inside and outside my car and on the floor mat--I changed my mind. I do wish you a long and happy life despite what I said earlier. K? We cool?

Too cool not to share. Enjoy!

More amazing pictures here!!

Earth: my favorite planet

Yesterday I went shopping. Luckily I remembered my reusable bags! So, as I'm checking out, with my reusable bags, I'm sort of mesmerized by all the hustle and bustle at Target. We're all standing around together, talking, paying, watching, sacking items, typing in pins, among other things. A LOT was going on. It was funny. I just sort of took a minute to look around and soak up the moment (maybe this is a step towards enlightenment?!) Well, when I got back from la la land I noticed that no one else was using reusable bags. Why not?

Now I'm no green revolutionary. I eat meat. Sometimes I throw paper in the trash and not the recycling (yes I do!). I don't have solar panels on my house. But I do use reusable bags. Because it's the one little thing that I can do to help out. It doesn't really inconvenience me or change my lifestyle drastically. I even use them to put gifts in. They're awesome. There are all kinds and Old Navy has some really cute ones. So if you don't already, I ask you to buy a few reusable bags. They're super cheap and think of how you're helping the planet. Do it for your (Earth) mama!

Most precious...

thing I've seen in a long time. Where can I get like five of these?

OMG so cute. It's like he's in a stick up.

Gettin' stuff done, son!

So today my I dominated my "choose to" list. It. Feels. Awesome.

Here's how it went down:
Workout? Check.
Sushi and sake? Check.
Write my biographical information for my online application? Check.(The most challenging of the "choose to's".)
Pick up prescriptions? Check.

Although if I got up earlier I could probably dominate the world. I just don't like getting up in the mornings. Never have. Probably never will. Tonight it's chicken enchiladas at the Spencer's, So You Think You Can Dance and Rockband. I have a full life. Can't ask for much more. :)

And here's my summer 'do. Couldn't put that one on my online app.

Wordless Wednesday

Backyard Bruisers, Games 1 and 2

Well, I am sad to report that the only thing bruised is our ego. We lost both games!!We did manage to score. No goose eggs for us. Not sure of the final scores. I can report back once I get the official scores. I'm sure you'll want to follow so you can keep up with the post-season play. We did have some fun and managed to keep our dignity. And we looked good in our team shirts!

My favorite part of the night, you ask? Finally making it on base and running home. I was like lightning! Well, not really. But I felt like it!! Oh, and the water breaks. Those were good too.

PS-We're already scoping out some running exercises to be faster. See how committed we are?

Weekend Recap

Saturday: Tubing the Comal for the twins' b-day. It was so great to see everyone and be on the river. It was not great, however, to overindulge on Lone Star and lose my sunglasses and cover up (Poor everyone who had to hear about it. Sorry!).

You know it's a good time on the river when:

1. Kelli starts spelling out words like d-r-u-n-k.
2. We start daring each other to tuck and roll down the river bank.
3. You can start singing "We are the world" and the whole river joins in.
4. Korenn's drinking "water" from random dudes.
5. You're singing Michael Jackson with your eyes closed and shaking your fist.
6. You realize exactly why you don't do this every weekend anymore!
7. You think you actually start to sound like Michael Jackson.


Sunday:Went to the parents house and had some seafood. Proceeded to watch home videos from 1990 on the VCR. Yes, they still have a VCR. Let me just tell you--I still got the softball skills. And the smart mouth. At one point I think my whole family was crying we were laughing so hard. We all sounded like such hicks. I think the Texas accent is magnified on the camcorder. We were also using language like "reckon" and "ain't". I am convinced that I left my accent somewhere in the 90's. I was told that I was wrong.

Good times.

"To Do" or not "To Do"

Not sure about you, but I am constantly making lists. I know you are Chaya!! These are in my head, on paper and on the computer. They'll include anything from what I need to do for the day(s), projects for the website I'm working on, things to buy, things to email, what to take camping, what to pack, etc. Lately I've felt like these lists suck. Although they help me get organized, they are taking over!
**Sidenote--I blame teaching for this. I wasn't like this before I had to constantly multitask at work. I used to be A LOT more laid back. I promise!! Don't get me wrong, love my job. It's just changed me.
I digress. I read something in a book lately that has helped me. Maybe it will help you. Or maybe you will decide to have an intervention for me. Either one. Instead of making a "to do list" I view it like this: "I choose to..." For example: I choose to be active everyday. Instead of thinking of working out as one more thing to do, I just see it like I choose to do it for my health and sanity. Being active can mean anything from walking to yoga to softball to dancing. Now while I may not necessarily "choose to" buy trash bags, it helps me feel like I have control over the lists. It also helps me to put the important things (me!!) into perspective.

There it is. The new me. Profound, isn't it.

Wordless Wednesday

Epcot-BOTH educational and fun!

So today Chaya and I visited Epcot. Less strollers. Which is great for me (long story!!). It rained. Any by rained I mean poured. So much so that the group of about 50 Brazilians in line with us started screaming. Apparently they don't have rain in Brazil. It was comical.

We had to get ponchos. Right after that, you know what happened? It stopped raining. But luckily for us it rained again later. Ponchos are expensive. Apparently that plastic is hard to come by or something. I'd hate to think that Disney is jacking up the price of something to make a buck.


Here we are trying to get that big ball in the picture. Didn't work.



Here we are again trying to get that big ball in the picture. Didn't work again.



Here we are finally in front of the ball.



Whootsie! The ride broke down



Here we are in space.



Here we are under the sea.



Drinking French wine in France. Great way to pass the time while the storm passes. This was pre-poncho.



Poncho Villa! Here we are in our awesome ponchos. I was happy. Chaya was sad we had to finally give in and get them.



Throwing up the "VM" for "Viva Mexico" on the lame Mexican boat ride.

4th of July in Ormond Beach, FL

This year I was actually in the country to celebrate the 4th. Yay!!!! Here are some pics to document the event.


Awesome times three.


Peace. In the middle east.


I'm singing "God Bless America...". Sing it with me now.


Jen and Christian. His first 4th of July. He loved the fireworks!!!

Animal Kingdom commercial

Animal Kingdom 1 day ticket:
$75

Fruit and pretzel snack, vitamin water:
$9

Rainforest Cafe lunch:
$24

Realizing that I should thank the Lord, Jesus Christ, my savior that I don't have children to take to Animal Kingdom:
F$#@ing priceless!!

Wordless Wednesday

This is how we do it!

Here are pics from the Michael Jackson Tribute Singalong (found out via twitter and got tix asap!) and from our 80's Ladies Singalong. Yes, we did them both in the same night. Four hours of singing, dancing and drinking. Maybe the most fun I could ever have, even though it was a sad day!! Thanks girls--had a blast with ya!!

We wear our sunglasses at night...


We are the ladies of the 80's. Although some of us remember more of the 80's than others!!



King of Pop. Nuff said.

Gloved one.

Heartbroken

My favorite PS22 song

If you haven't heard them yet, you're missing out!! Awesome. And the boy with the solo...just precious!!


Click here--Don't Stop Believin

Hold me close I'm tiny dancin'

Ok. My brother and I just got into an argument about Elton John's "Tiny Dancer". I don't want to point any fingers or say "I told you so!", but I am a genius. After a simple google search, I came up with not only the answer to our question, but also what may be one of the best sites out there. Please check it out!

amiright

I highly recommend you find one of your favorite songs, find anyone who'll listen to you and go through the list and sing them aloud. It rocks! Poor Cody.

Ciao Chaya!

Today Chaya moved to Florida to visit with her family before she heads off to start a new adventure in Paraguay.

Girl, I can't even tell you how much you'll be missed! Please let me know asap when I can come visit. K?

Te quiero!!

It's official!

I'm on vacay.

Feel the love

So I just got home from the 5th grade graduation. My former 4th graders at my former school graduated tonight and are off to 6th grade next year! I have to say that I didn't really know what to expect. I mean, I left the school. Kind of thought that the kids would forget about me. Needless to say they were all as sweet as I remembered and welcomed me back with open arms. Didn't realize how much I missed them! They are all so grown up and taller than me! I also saw a student from my very first class of Monkeys. She's going into 8th grade. Makes me feel old! Now I know what people mean by that. Like I'm not aging at all, but everyone around me seems to be getting older! Anyway. Just wanted to give a little shout out (not really, I'm hoping none of them read this blog!!) to the Monkeys from last year. Good luck next year!

Six more days...

with the precious little 3rd graders. By this point in the year we are like family. And you know how family can sometimes get on your nerves? Yeah. That's what's happening now. We still love each other, but if I have to hear one more "...he's looking at me!" or "I was just..." and "...it's not mine!"--to which I reply "I don't care whose it is, just somebody pick it up!" I am going to scream. Today their homework was: Go home tonight and grow up. No more baby talk or whining at school tomorrow. It might sound mean, but they know I love 'em and they get my humor.

PS--Much better year than last year! I remembered why I wanted to teach. I love these kids with my whole heart. Each and every one. And you know who else rocks? The Monkeys.

The old college try

Well, after our first win of 20 to 1, we thought the outcome of our district softball tournament would be brighter. "The Bandidos", that's what they call us (because that's our name) would not be in the winner's bracket for long. The first game even ended in an exciting double play from 2nd to 1st base (with me on first!). But alas, we lost our second and third games. I'd like to blame it on the heat. The third game was much closer than the second, and we thought we had it! In the end they were just better. We did conduct ourselves respectfully and were good sports. Even though we were robbed.

La vida loca

Happy (early) cinco de mayo everyone!

Ok, so it's still April (happy b-day amber!), but I wanted to post!

Tomorrow we are off to go camping. We are hoping for good weather, strong drinks, comfortable chairs, and lots of relaxation. And perhaps some dancing. I am also thinking that hilarity will ensue.

Since it will be our second annual cinco de mayo camping trip, Chaya and I have prepared another little surprise for Anne Marie and Amy. Let's just say our last surprise included travel sized bottles of (adult) beverages, candy, and glow sticks all in the form of a donkey pinata. We were a big hit at the camp site. And donkey later turned up hanging in our tent. An apparent suicide.

Stay tuned to check out the surprise. Know you can't wait...

And I totally teach the writing process...

I am proud to say that the website FatPassport.com is up and running! I wrote a few articles for the site on travelling to Peru and Mexico as well as some other places in the US. Check it out! In case you want to learn all about me-click the link on the bottom of the page that says "Our Travel Experts" and I'm about halfway down the page.
FatPassport

England photos...finally!!

Double decker tour bus

Buckingham
Palace

Windsor Castle--the Queen was there! God save the Queen





Stonehenge



Tower of London



Roman baths in Bath

Happy B-day Cody!

Ireland photos

Dublin Castle


St. Patrick's Cathedral


windows inside cathedral



Drinking our pints at the Guinness Brewery


Paddy's Day-waiting for the parade to begin.


Parade craziness!


Beautiful scenery

Toilets

Americans...do not take your public toilets for granted. Note: I will be using the word "toilets" here as the word "restroom" that most of you may know. Not sure why they're so serious about not letting people use the toilets here, but they don't mess around. They actually have guards that are standing at the toilets making sure you are a customer/hotel guest/patron of whatever company it is. McDonald's actually hires some guy to stand outside the restrooms and make sure you are actually paying for something at McDonald's. Totally ridiculous and strange.

On another note, St. Paddy's day was fun. Went to the parade and drank in the pubs. Paying for it today, though. Took a tour of the Irish countryside today-beautiful. Hard to believe we'll be back in Amerrrica tomorrow. Cheers!

Pardon?

Okay. So I know they speak English in England and Ireland. I still can't seem to understand what the hell they're saying! I'm all "uh huh" and "oooh" and asking Chaya if she caught that last bit. Sometimes she does. And sometimes I'll get it. Then we put the pieces we understand together like a jigsaw. A UK jigsaw. It's funny. Takes some getting used to that's for sure.

On another note, had a great tour of Dublin city today. Got to see almost the whole city and walk around some. Even bought some super touristy regalia for the St. Patrick's Day celebration tomorrow. One word-ridiculous! Just wait for the pics. Had a Guinness, but not so sure I'll have another. Not my style. More to come tomorrow!

Allo from jolly old England!

Just sitting down to recap. The last two/three days we have spent in England. Our first day was spent recovering from jet lag. After our 8 hour flight (where we of course couldn't sleep), we sprang forward 6 hours into England time and it put us on our arses. Yesterday we toured London city. It was awesome. Except the part about getting lost at night. But we finally made it to our home here safely. Today we went to Windsor Castle (whilst the Queen was in residence!), Stonehenge, and Bath. Lots of awesome pictures and memories. So tomorrow it's off to Dublin. Can't wait to drink in a real Irish pub.

Be back soon to update on our European vacation!

Packing...not my forte

So it's time to start packing for Europe. Usually I'm an early packer. Like I'm an early gift giver. As soon as I buy a gift for someone, I want to give it to them. So usually when I plan a trip, I start packing as soon as I buy the plane ticket. At least in my mind. So when people started asking "Are you packed yet?" I panicked a little. I can usually answer, "Yes, I've been packed for a week. Think my clothes will be wrinkled?"

This time is different. I have put it off. Not sure why. Maybe it's because the weather is going to be different? Or because I needed closed toe shoes and can't wear flip flops (what else do people wear?)? So, here I go starting tonight. Wish me luck! Apparently it's not once-an-overpacker-always-an0overpacker. I keep reminding myself of the Peru incident. I've morphed into a minimalist packer that severely needed more pants in the rainforest. And if there's one thing you don't want in the rainforest, it's to be saying "I need more pants man!"

I'm baaaaaack!

So, it's been awhile since I last posted. Three years to be exact. I was inspired by Chaya's recent blog to get back on and update my life blog style. I am currently teaching 3rd grade and love it! I have a great class that I'm in love with. They are really sweet and caring. I actually enjoy going to work.

On another note, I am getting ready to go to Europe. Super excited to visit and can't wait to experience life on the other side of the pond. Will post some pics and hopefully great stories after my return. I'm also looking to volunteer abroad this summer helping out wild life. Looking into Africa, Australia, Galapagos Islands or anywhere else that I find interesting and affordable.

Holla!

Happy tears

As I sit here and count down the days until summer (7 days), I can't help but cry. It's hard to see through all of the end of the year crap. Yes there is a lot of crap and it's not, in the words of a friend, "all water balloon fights and fun". Anyways, it's hard to see through that and realize that I only have 7 days left with these kids. I really didn't think I would be so attached, but I am. These kids have been with me for 6 hours a day for 180 days. They are all so special in their own way. They are so sweet to me and each other. They are smart. They are respectful. They are creative. They are fun. They are silly. They are my Monkeys. I'm sad and glad at the same time. Teaching really is hard work.

I forgot one thing...

I'm going to have to add "update blog template" to my summer to-do list. I'm totally old school and I really should apologize. This is unacceptable.

It's the little things

You know what's good about teaching?

All of the hugs I get all day long. Seriously-all day long. It's really good for my self esteem. Those kids are the most preciousest preciouses I've ever seen.

14 days until summer vacation. My plans for the summer? Sleep late, fix up the backyard so it doesn't look like a frat party, go to some trainings, visit Portland, watch daytime t.v., visit Florida, sleep late, learn to play the guitar and fiddle, go to the dentist, spend time with my mom and grandma, learn publisher, sleep late, enjoy the skin-melting-off-your-face heat, drink Dos XX in my new hammock I'm going to buy for the backyard, and read lots of books that aren't related to teaching in any way. Yup.

So, we step out of the car...

and there's all this cow shit. This was our first experience with the Snook Chilifest 2006.

Then we find out we have to walk a mile to get to the grounds. Ok, no big deal-you think. Until you try to roll your cooler over cowshit, puddles, mud, and rocks. In the dark. Angela and I each drank 4 beers in a feeble attempt to lighten the load. We had to gauge our parking spot by the number of parking lots we passed. One parking lot then a creek. Two parking lots then a pond. Three parking lots. You get the idea. I am so sore from carrying that damn cooler. The kind of sore that hurts even when you're using your foot for the accelerator while driving. So, this is Friday night. Once in the grounds, we posted up our shit, drank a few more and listened to some good music. Then, we trekked another mile back to the car.

Saturday was another story. We were on easy street. No cooler. No walking in the dark. No cow shit. And then there was great music.

If you can get past the cow shit, drunks batting beer cans into the crowd, port-a-potties, and college kids, it really is a good time.



Oh yeah, 35 days till summer. You can't see it, but I'm smilin'.

Done

I really don't want this blog to be all about teaching. But, damnit, it consumes me. Today I felt so hopeless. I can't help but feel like that sometimes. I am not the teacher I want to be. I'm trying. It is so draining that I really cannot give it anything else. This job is such a rollercoaster and I'm wondering if I'm strong enough to do it. Part of the time I think that maybe I'm not meant to do this, and then there are days that I think I am "Teacher of the Year" material. Not really, but you get the idea. It is so hard to be THE decisive element in the classroom. Sometimes I just want to sit at my big teacher's desk and put my head down. I guess I need more yoga.

I really am growing up

All it takes is one night of binge drinking to regress back to my teenage years.

Rodeo, $5 rum and cokes and asshole cowboys does not a party make. It was not pretty. I hadn't had one of those, "I'm never drinking again, I swear!" nights in a long time. Good riddance to that shit.

Night and day

It's funny. February has come and gone, and I forgot to celebrate the 1st year anniversary of getting laid off from my previous job (you know, the one working for the man and not the children). It's funny how time can slip away from you. I know it's so cliche, but I couldn't have imagined all this would have happened.

I'd like to take a few moments to compare/contrast the two jobs. If I could, I would totally use a Venn diagram to get my point across, but I'm not sure how to drag it into blogger. Yeah, it's like a Reading lesson up in here.

Similarities

-At my old job, I was the low man on the totem pole. Now I teach about totem poles.
-Politics.
-Miscommunications. This is a biggie. I’m sure we can all agree that there are people who just lack the skills to effectively communicate.
-Supplies-although the school does have a better assortment. We’re talking crayons and pencils galore!
-Meetings! My schedule is one big list of people to meet/talk/discuss/plan/collaborate/ with.


Differences

-Executive lunches. Now I’m lucky if I get to scarf my food and plan my Science lesson in 10 minutes.
-Lice. Nuff said.
-The hours. I do miss that hourly schedule. Now it’s to do lists and late nights.
-My kids. I do love them.
-Parents-they sure do have a lot of trust in me!
-Everyday is an adventure in my classroom. Seriously, you never know from day to day what the hell will happen.
-Men. There just aren’t any.
-R-E-S-P-O-N-S-I-B-I-L-I-T-Y
-No lawyers.
-School psychologists.
-Behavior plans.
-Career Day.
-Field trips.
-Smoke breaks.
-My views on public education. I'm not going to get into all that, but there's some real shit out there.
-Lunch for $2.50. But somehow I still manage to rack up a $70 tab.



Just a few interesting tidbits.
Happy Laid Off Anniversary to me.

In other news:
-I have been reintroduced to my treadmill. Mucho gusto!
-I have also joined a Yoga class. Om.
-I have also joined a sand volleyball team. Go Sand Fleas!
-I am getting a hefty tax refund.
-Since I am getting a hefty return, I shall be saying goodbye to one of my Chase card accounts. So long sucka!

I woke up today and shook my fist in anger.

My 2 week "Winter Vacation" (formerly Christmas Break) is officially over. I must say that I've thoroughly enjoyed myself. I feel like I'm back to my old self. All the sleeping late and drinking has done me good. I got to do so many things on my break, but there were so many things left undone. Like laundry. And watching "The Aviator". And the computer room at my parents' house. Oh well, there's always summer.

This 2 week break is definitely more for the teachers than the students. Especially the rookies. I might have quit if it weren't for this break. Yes, it is that stressful. Or at least it is for me. But, alas, I am refreshed and ready to go. Especially since I don't have a full week of work for the next 5 weeks. Really. I have at least 1 day off during the next 5 weeks (now some of these days are training, but still!). Put that in your pipe and smoke it.

Today was a good day.

Today I am 27. My birthday was spectacular. The day was filled with my wonderful family, friends and students. And a little "surprise party" that my students planned that I pretended to have no idea about. Actually it turned out to be a pretty big party that took up our whole afternoon. They had been planning it for months. One word--precious. I've really got to hand it to the 4th graders. They can be so sweet and thoughtful.

All of my immediate family visited me today at school. It was hilarious. Today's festivities included: a cake with monkeys, trick candles, tons of food, gifts, cards and phone calls from my homies, streamers, a new foot massager, a parcel from Portland, and lots of hugs. I loved every minute of today. Thanks to everyone who made my day so special!!

Post Thanksgiving Recap

Well, it really is hard to believe that Thanksgiving has come and gone. Especially when it's 80 freakin' degress outside.

It was a good one. Very laid back. Except for my brother getting stung by a wasp that flew in his beer. Yup. He couldn't eat his HEB pre-cooked Thanksgiving dinner until about 8 p.m. Poor thing.

On another note, I am antsy. I have been off since Wednesday and I really don't know what to do. I might have Adult ADD. Which would be AADD. I'm not sure. I guess I am so used to having no time that it's hard for me to just sit and be. Although this is what I've wished for, it's weird. It's not that I really want to go back to work either. I spent 6 hours up at school yesterday and cried about it. I just don't know how to manage my time. I spent 6 hours on 1 week's lesson plan and entering grades!? WHAAAA! Who AM I??

That's all for now. Good day.

Get out your Writing Journal

Reflection is a powerful tool. As I get home at 5:30 on a Wednesday night (I totally thought I’d be home by 4:00 for Oprah each day), I'm forced to think about where I am right now and where I've been. My job is fulfilling. It is also a ton of work. It is worth it when I hear my kids talk about something that they have learned or when I see them be so sweet to each other. Last year around this time I was filing papers and updating resumes online. Oh a whim (sort of) I decided to get my Teaching Certificate. My, my how I’ve come a long way. The work that I’m doing now actually impacts somebody and I am seriously earning every cent of my salary. I only hope that some of the stuff we’re doing in 4th grade actually sticks. This job has given me a whole new perspective. Some people just shouldn’t have kids. If you can’t give them a loving, supportive home life, just don’t have kids. It’s so sad and I want to take them home with me.

Sometimes I feel like I’m finally where I’m supposed to be and sometimes I feel like I’m a huge fraud. I’m actually learning in 4th grade too. It’s amazing how much I’ve forgotten-or maybe I never learned it. A favorite phrase of mine is, “What do you think?” This is code for, “I really don’t know, don’t ask me.” I am happy and amazed and tired and stressed and overwhelmed all at the same time. It’s a good feeling. It’s been awhile, so I almost didn’t recognize the happiness sneaking in there. But I’m glad it’s here and I hope it stays awhile.

I love my job, it’s my favorite time of year, and I bought a brand-new-fancy-pants mattress. Life is goooooood.

Here we go...

I. Am. Exhausted.

Most days I put in from 10-12 hours. There is so much planning, paperwork, grading, organizing, thinking, analyzing, modifying, reorganizing, and preparation that it is easy to lose sight of why I'm really doing this-summers off. No really, this teaching gig is the hardest thing I've ever done in my life.

My 4th graders are hilarious, though. It is really worth it. They think it's hilarious when I speak what little Spanish I know and they love it even more when I read in Spanish (my class is filled with Spanish speakers). They are fascinated about my life outside of school. They invite me to their games, birthday parties and such. They suggested that I go on eHarmony when they found out I wasn't married. They are PRECIOUS!

I just hope that through all the chaos that is my teaching, they're actually learning. You should have seen me trying to teach division. Good laaaawwwd! I think they finally got it. Maybe. Only the standardized tests will be the judge of that. :(

I'm limiting my nervous breakdowns to once a week. Seriously. But never in front of the kids. My team leader shared a story that she totally broke down in front of her kids during her first year of teaching. I haven't done that...yet.
Self discovery is a bitch. I'm learning that I totally don't deal with stress effectively. I'm trying.



In other news...

There is $100/month cable installed in the duplex that I'm not living in yet.

I bought a big girl bed. A pretty one.

I also bought a laundry sorter. You know, the kind that has 3 compartments. If you don't already have one, I highly suggest you pick one up. It has cut down on my laundry time considerably.

We have 2 new baby goats. Yesterday when I came home, they were both hollering. I thought that was odd, since they really only cried the first day they came to the house. I went out to check on them and one was caught in the fence with his little head on the other side where our 2 emus live. I didn't panic, being the country girl that I am. I quickly tried to get his little head and horns through the fence. He wasn't really cooperating. While I'm trying to free him, the male emu has suddenly taken an interest in what is going on (he didn't really care about the goat-just me). So, I'm trying to free the goat and the emu is sort of pushing up against the fence that is between us with his feet/claws right by goat's face. So, I'm a little worried that he is going to claw his little eyes out or something accidentally. So, I'm trying to get the goat out while pushing the emu back. Then, through the fence, he starts to peck at my head. And now I am getting pissed. I am cussing at this emu and pushing him away. At one point I was tapping on his beak with a rock and clapping to get him to leave me alone. He wouldn't quit. So, I decided to feed him and he finally left us for all of the two minutes it took me to free the goat. So, I get the goat free and the emu isn't hungry anymore and all is good. So, I get some treats to feed the llamas that have sort of freaked out during all the hoopla. They each get two treats. So, they've had their two treats and I'm going to walk away and..BAM! The fucking llama spit on me.

5th week update

It's the 5th week of school!!! I can't believe it. So much has happened. Next week I'll be finishing up testing my kids for their reading levels and entering grades and pulling my eyelashes out one at a time. Oh my god. I'm the teacher.

I had my first parent conference and I think it was a success? It was with one of my "behaviorally challenged" kids. I was positive. The mom was receptive. Her child sits away from the other groups facing my desk. Yeah-it's that serious.

Sometimes I can't take myself seriously. So much of my day is spent trying to outsmart 4th graders. We have a Voice Volume Chart. The other day I totally said, "Um, you're at a 10 and I'm going to need you at a 4." Who the hell really says that? Me, apparently.

Today we had a fire drill. I didn't have my class in my room at the time. I had another teacher's class that I teach Math. I didn't tell them that we were having a drill. You should have seen their faces. They did well.

I'm glad to say that Shark Bait has made a full recovery. It was touch-and-go for awhile there. Actually, I think he was dying. He was alive, but he was totally floating. He's a fighter. He just kept swimming down to the bottom of his bowl. His little fins were going so fast! I had to have the talk with the kids since I was afraid he wouldn't make it through the night. They were precious. They wanted to pray for him and have a "proper burial" if he died. One kid did say that it was just a fish and oh well if he dies. Little stinker! Anyway, I changed his water and cleaned his bowl and alas is alive!!

That's about all for now.

PS-If my life seems a little juvenile, that's because it is.

Anything but normal

Yup. That's it. My life has taken a drastic turn. A good turn, as far as I can tell.

Today was a great day (there have been many questionable days). I like my kids. I'm really starting to get to know them as people. It's great-they are so funny sometimes. Like little adults.

The beginning of the week is so smooth. Fridays are another story. I'm trying to get into the groove. It's been so tough. There have been tears. There has been laughter. There has been sleep apnea. There have been trainings out the ass. I'm doing the best I can, but half the time I feel like I'm in way over my head here.

On another note, the duplex is almost done and ready for us to move in. We have carpet. We have furniture (not without a confrontation with both The Roomstore and Lacks). Blinds are up...sort of. Now I have to find some time to pack-yeah right.

Things are good. I didn't feel that way the other day, but things are looking up. Cheers!

I survived!

Oh. My. God. The first day of school is hectic!!! But it was fun. I still feel like-this is my job?? Are you kidding me?

It was quite a funny day. I was so organized...then I was so unorganized. I learned many lessons today, even if my students didn't. Tomorrow should go a little better-at least that's what I've heard. It's so funny to hear my name-I almost didn't answer to it several times because it is so weird. I didn't lose any children, none of them cried, they seemed to have fun and they learned a few of our routines. I consider that a success.

PS-Our fish is named "Shark Bait".

I'm the teacher!?!?!

Since my new job (and I'm thankful everyday that I have it) is taking up most of my life (ok-all of it), I thought I'd post on my progress and my thoughts. Here it goes in list format:

1. My classroom is almost set up. I had no idea how tough this was. And time consuming. But hopefully it's a nice place they can come into and feel safe.
2. I have 'Meet the Teacher Night' in 2 days. And I'm the teacher. Oh my god.
3. I have really found out what stress can do to a body. I've never been so stressed in my life-or overwhelmed.
4. I haven't talked to my friends in awhile. That makes me sad.
5. I feel so lucky to have this job!
6. We're getting carpet in the duplex, so that means I don't have to work on staining the concrete floors. Hallelujah!!
7. I have met some wonderful people, most of which I'll be seeing everyday. Again-lucky.
8. I have my class list, along with records on them with their little pookie pictures on them. Adorable.
9. We will have a class pet. A fish. I'm going to let my students decide on the name.
10. I'm going to join our 'Improve the Planet' student organization. Should be fun.
11. Our class theme is a Jungle focusing on Monkeys.
12. As of last Friday, our school doesn't have a principal. What the shit?
13. I'm so excited and so nervous at the same time.
14. I know a handful of my students and they are AWESOME!
15. I'm scared of a bunch of 4th graders.

OVERWHELMED

That's all I have to say.