New Year's Eve ho-hum

So it's almost the end of 2007. I feel a little blah. I'm wondering if it's post-Christmas letdown.

I'm going to the doc today to get my ears checked.

I have a party tonight to go to.

I have a NEW DIET to try in January.


Question for the masses:
Would you prefer Scenario A or B?
A) life with a partner where your financial, emotional, intellectual needs are met or exceeded, but no sex.
B) life with a partner that had good sex, some intellectual, emotional needs, but little or no financial ones are met.

I'm home!

Man, it's good to be back in Atlanta!

Saturday was good

Despite the way it ended.

It started with me sleeping in some, and playing a bit of World of Warcraft. I haven't played in forever, so it was fun just to run around with my hunter for an hour and shoot arrows at stuff while my kitty clawed it to death.

I talked with B on the phone and we made plans for the day. We went shopping. First to the Farmer's Market, where I got coffee to drink as well as lettuce for the piggies. B got an Angus rib roast to smoke in his big green egg for the holiday dinner he was going to on Christmas day. Then he said he needed to bring a dessert, so we drove to the Alons bakery. I am in love with this place. Not just a bakery/cakery/breadery... They have wine, fantastic cheeses from around the world, and a deli case of ready-to-eat items. B decided on a Buche de Noel- a "log" cake that was a thin layer of gingerbread filled with Valrhona chocolate mousse with a center of coffee creme brulee. About that time B asked if I wanted another coffee, so I ordered one of those. Coffee in hand, I perused the store and returned to find B at the cheesemonger's counter. We tried 7 different kinds of cheeses and chose 3 of them for him to take to the dinner as well.

After this we went to his place and finished watching Tin Man that he'd recorded a couple weeks ago. Overall, I liked the retelling and found it to be inventive and creative, if a little hokey and convenient that a sister was possessed by a bad witch. While trying to decide what to do next, B said he'd like to play some air hockey. We'd leave bowling to another day. It was decided that Dave and Buster's would supply us with food, air hockey, and skeeball. He resoundingly beat me at skeeball, and I beat him at air hockey.

The day ended with my "tummy" seeking revenge for all the antibiotics I've been taking. It started before I'd even finished my food and had to excuse myself to the restroom. So rather than enjoy a second game of air hockey, we headed back to town in the light drizzle of late afternoon. B insists jokingly I asked to leave just so I can say that I beat him at air hockey. And while that wasn't the reason.... don't think it didn't cross my mind.

Once I was home and safely in the bathroom, B went to Publix to get me a few things for my drive tomorrow. I took a Heather's Tummy Tamer Peppermint oil pill. I think being home though helped relieve some of the anxiety I'd been feeling. And yes, I'm a little stressed about my trip tomorrow.

All the family will be at my parents' house Christmas day. Somehow we usually fall into roles like we're teenagers again, and I don't particularly relish the thought. The piggies will stay up here, B's offered to come by and feed them and check their water.

Oh, and he's making me wait till Christmas to open the "back up" present he got me... before he got me the one at the antique show.

*smiles* I'll be glad to be back here I think.

I wish I could sleep. My neck is tense. Somehow the thought of the drive tomorrow is quite different from when I went there for Thanksgiving. Ah well.

Merry Christmas to all!

Three Shopping Days Left

Can't decide what to get?



Caution- link is not safe for work, lyrics are not safe for young 'uns.
(and yes, that's Justin Timberlake)

No Sense of Smell

It was a blessing this morning, to have no sense of smell. It started with a mom telling me in the hall that her boy had thrown up the night before, but he seemed fine now, so of course he wanted to come to school and she let him.

At 8:15 the normal chaos of 20 5 and 6 year olds looking forward to Christmas reigned supreme in the classroom. One of the parents brought in finished gift projects- handprints from each child in plaster, spray painted either gold or silver. One catch- one was missing, he said. They couldn't find it in the house, or car, and had no idea where it was. A quick run-down of the names showed the boy to whom we had no gift.

So I start mixing plaster in a bowl (with my bare hand), preparing to pour it into the last mold the parents left us. My assistant says "I need to go out to my car, I'll be right back." And I thought... maybe this isn't the best time to be doing this.

And sure enough....

Not 10 seconds later I heard 3 kids saying my name and "Kiera's throwing up".

I turn around, wrist deep in wet plaster, to see on the floor clear liquid and bits of blue?? and a green bean. I tell Kiera to go to the toilet to finish, and ask a boy to go next door and tell Trese I need help. Trese cleans Kiera up and takes her to the nurse to call mom, who left not 20 minutes ago. Did I mention today was "Pajama Polar Express Day"? Yes, she threw up on her nightclothes and bathrobe.

I finishing pouring the plaster into the mold, wash my hands, and buzz the office to get the janitor to come clean up. He does, and as he arrives, I see the kids in the class next door are watching Christmas videos. I ask, and they let my class go over there. I follow them, and by this time my assistant is back. The mom arrives, says it's her own fault for giving her daughter decongestant (hence the blue) on an empty stomach. She'll watch her during the day and see if she's alright to come to the party at 1:30. (Said mom was a room parent that is helping organize the party).

So they leave, and I walk back to my room to check on janitor status. About that time I hear a commotion in the other room. Guess what?

Yup.... one of their boys threw up... all over the carpet.

Cue me to call the janitor over as soon as he was done there. So I was eternally grateful I couldn't smell a thing. Else I might have become nauseous too. There must have been something going around, because before noon our janitor got cleanup calls in the first grade across the hall, and down the hall near the front office.

Again I see the sense in making the 18th or 19th of December the last day of school.

Rest of the day went well. We all moved back to my room to let them clean the carpet. Moved the TV too. At 10am I sent the other kids back, with the TV. Our kids were going to have our gift exchange.

Gifts were divided into two tables. One for boys, one for girls.
These were my rules:
1) You don't come up until I call your name.
2) You don't cry or say "I don't like it" when you unwrap it if you're disappointed. (I told them these are small gifts, not large gifts like they might get at home. $5 was suggested spending)
3) If you really don't like the present you chose, whisper it to me later, in private, and I'll see that it goes to a boy or girl who may not get toys at all for Christmas.

Not one child cried or complained. (Yes, I've had it happen in previous years)

Then came lunch. Then came them going to the Coach for 2 hours while he showed "The Polar Express". During this time we covered the tables in green and red butcher paper, got packages ready to go home, and set up for the party at 1:30. The time to ourselves was MUCH appreciated.

Party went smoothly. The parents came to help. Not too much food, no red dye #5 Kool-Aid. We had small bottles of water, a teeny cupcake, a glob of white frosting, 2 sugar cookies each, a popsicle stick to spread the frosting, and sprinkles to decorate with. The goldfish crackers actually weren't needed for the time allowed. Kids got to "do a craft" and then eat it. Perfect.

And I'm home now.
After a visit to the local pub of course... for a burger and waffle fries, and a capaccino stout on draught.

Happy vacation~!

Bleh

All the kids have been coming to school with green snot in their noses. Ok, not all of them, but certainly the ones who pick their nose and then (without washing or using sanitizer) try to tie their shoes, give up, and ask me to do it.

I've got their germs.

I've got the snot.

Bleh.

What D&D Character am I?

Yes, I am just this geeky:



I Am A: True Neutral Human Ranger/Bard (3rd/2nd Level)


Ability Scores:

Strength-11

Dexterity-12

Constitution-10

Intelligence-16

Wisdom-14

Charisma-12


Alignment:
True Neutral A true neutral character does what seems to be a good idea. He doesn't feel strongly one way or the other when it comes to good vs. evil or law vs. chaos. Most true neutral characters exhibit a lack of conviction or bias rather than a commitment to neutrality. Such a character thinks of good as better than evil after all, he would rather have good neighbors and rulers than evil ones. Still, he's not personally committed to upholding good in any abstract or universal way. Some true neutral characters, on the other hand, commit themselves philosophically to neutrality. They see good, evil, law, and chaos as prejudices and dangerous extremes. They advocate the middle way of neutrality as the best, most balanced road in the long run. True neutral is the best alignment you can be because it means you act naturally, without prejudice or compulsion. However, true neutral can be a dangerous alignment because it represents apathy, indifference, and a lack of conviction.


Race:
Humans are the most adaptable of the common races. Short generations and a penchant for migration and conquest have made them physically diverse as well. Humans are often unorthodox in their dress, sporting unusual hairstyles, fanciful clothes, tattoos, and the like.


Primary Class:
Rangers are skilled stalkers and hunters who make their home in the woods. Their martial skill is nearly the equal of the fighter, but they lack the latter's dedication to the craft of fighting. Instead, the ranger focuses his skills and training on a specific enemy a type of creature he bears a vengeful grudge against and hunts above all others. Rangers often accept the role of protector, aiding those who live in or travel through the woods. His skills allow him to move quietly and stick to the shadows, especially in natural settings, and he also has special knowledge of certain types of creatures. Finally, an experienced ranger has such a tie to nature that he can actually draw on natural power to cast divine spells, much as a druid does, and like a druid he is often accompanied by animal companions. A ranger's Wisdom score should be high, as this determines the maximum spell level that he can cast.


Secondary Class:
Bards often serve as negotiators, messengers, scouts, and spies. They love to accompany heroes (and villains) to witness heroic (or villainous) deeds firsthand, since a bard who can tell a story from personal experience earns renown among his fellows. A bard casts arcane spells without any advance preparation, much like a sorcerer. Bards also share some specialized skills with rogues, and their knowledge of item lore is nearly unmatched. A high Charisma score allows a bard to cast high-level spells.


Find out What Kind of Dungeons and Dragons Character Would You Be?, courtesy of Easydamus (e-mail)

Something new to knit.

I may just be addicted to knitting.

I finished my first real project today, even wore the muffler to work since it matched my blouse, although it's really for B.

Afterschool, went to get something to eat only to find I wasn't really hungry. All I could think about was going to the crafts store to buy a new color to begin a new project.

Happy hands now... with something new to knit.

Pampering

I have to give a shout out to my friend Allie for suggesting I get my nails done.

Even though I'd originally wanted to sleep, the mani-pedi was great. I got the good vibrating chair. My fingernails are now dark pink and my toes are dark red. The big toenails have a Christmas tree painted on each nail. It makes me smile to look at them.

I also paid an extra $10 for 10 extra minutes of arm massage. Damn... worth it! oh ya.

Got home, had some food, slipped into my comfy robe and read some Oprah magazine. Got cold feet (no, literally) and decided on a hot bath with epsom salts. Read more magazine by candlelight and lit some white sage.

Finished the evening with (too much) homemade fudge. Got to make sure there's enough left to give B :P

I'm feeling better.

Weekend with B

This was our first "reality" weekend. That kind of feeling where there's very little excitement about seeing each other, and lots on the mind dealing with work or RL. For B's part, he was very preoccupied with situations at work, and the fact that he'd need to work Sunday to get stuff done for a Linux guy on Monday. For my part, I was so totally exhausted, that all I really wanted to do was stay in bed.

But I didn't. I called B at 8am and told him I was up. We decided to do breakfast and he picked me up at 9:30. Breakfast for me turned out to be lunchfood. I was pretty hungry. Afterwards though, I got sooo sleepy. B told me he thought I needed a nap, and I ruefully agreed with him. So bowling was put on hold. We went back to his place. He asked how long I thought I'd nap. I said a couple hours. That was at 11:30.

I did wake up 2 hours later, but by then a soft rain was coming down. He was working on a 'puter in the other room, with the door closed, so I went back to sleep.

About 3:40 I finally woke up for good. Hungry of course. :P We went to the store and got some light fare and came back and ate, and watched some of the Tivo'd Tin Man from last week.

Dinner with Allie went ok. We ate at the Lobster bar, and B didn't talk too much. Not that I expected him to. Later I found out he'd been pretty disappointed by his order, and the service. At one point a waiter even came and took the glasses Allie and I weren't done with- like he was going to bring it back full. He never did though, so we had to ask for new ones. Our food was good though.

I slept better than I have there before. But I woke up early knowing I had to do greeter duty at church, and not really wanting to. I swear I almost fell asleep during the meditation.

I could have come home and gone to sleep, but have decided to treat myself to a Mani-Pedi. Maybe I can get extra massage for my sore muscles.

Anway... the weekend together felt more blah than it has before. B even felt it and apologized, said he felt guilty that we hadn't had an "exciting fun time". *Shrug* This was time when we just got to be ourselves, without scheduled activities and games. And hey, he let me sleep. What a guy.

Space Center

Friday's field trip to the Huntsville Space and Rocket Center was great. All the kids loved it. My philosophy for the day was "if it looks cool, try it". So I went on the G-force (spins you around and you stick to the wall). Once was enough. I went on the "Mars Experience" rollercoaster simulation. That was fun. Then there was the "Martian" rock wall.

I'm fat. I'm not supposed to be able to climb a rock wall. But you know what? I weighed less than their weight limit, so I thought hey, why not try and see if I can do it.

I got halfway up the rock wall before my arms and legs said "ok, that's enough. We're done." I then proceeded to jump down on my safety line. I should have put more thought into the getting down part. Apparently I was higher than I thought. I *should* have made little tiny hops to rappel down the wall. Instead I tried to take it all in one go. When the line sensor finally decided to tighten, I crashed sideways into a wall. One of the "rock" hand/foot holds dug into my hip. I continued in my downward trajectory and landed oh-not-so delicately on my fat ass. hehe.

I was pretty proud of myself for attempting it though. And I have a clementine-orange-size bruise on my hip now. Not too different from summers when I capsize in a canoe on my favorite camping trip.

We were at the center from about 9:45am till 4:30pm. We had lunch at noon, and an IMAX movie at 3:00. Lunch was.... weird. I swear I thought I knew all the colors edible ground meat could be, and still be good. I'm sure they called it a hamburger, but I'm sure it was too grey to be ground beef. Maybe turkey and soy. Didn't make us sleepy though. Copious amounts of ketchup, mustard, and a layer of Lay's potato chips made it better. The boy next to me decided to "invent" two new foods: the Oreo and meat burger, as well as a tasty dessert of the Potato chip Oreo. He said the latter tasted better. I decided not to try oreo on the bun with said mystery meat.

We had dinner at Cici's pizza in Huntsville. Thirty six kids, 12 adults invaded the restaurant. Soon as pizza was wolfed down, 36 kids invaded their game room there.

We got back about 10:30, 10:45pm. I was sooooo tired. I couldn't sleep right on the bus, and was too self conscious about snoring.

All in all a great trip. It was awesome to see the kids working together and learning.

Well, when they weren't begging to go on rides that made adults want to throw up, that is.

Cooties

Today was a good day. Talked to the boy's mom about the cell phone. It's an old one of hers, given to the boy because he LOVES technology and ringtones and the games. But he knows he's not supposed to bring it to school.

Licegirl was back today, sans lice.

Tonight I was supposed to go to a caroling service at my church. B was going to go with me, then we'd grab a bite to eat afterward. However, around 4pm I started getting a killer headache. It wasn't gone by 6, so I emailed him asking if we could just do dinner somewhere dark and quiet. He said no problem.

I'm back, stuffed, and my headache's gone. I'm overthinking things a bit for this looong field trip tomorrow. I don't know what to expect exactly, so I feel like I'm going to end up bringing too much. Ah well. I guess the important part now is to get a good night's sleep.

Is It Christmas Yet?

What a day what a day.

I feel like I have this black cloud hanging over me. Last night was the Holiday PTA. PreK and K'ers were dressed as little bees. The overarching story was about these "share" bears and how one of them was a beekeeper and always gave honey to whoever asked. It wasn't over till 8pm. So 11 hours later I'm back at school. Yes, it was hard to get up this morning. I also had to dress up, put the pretty on. Holiday show for the school today, and Holiday luncheon for parents and relatives (decent food for a change).

Well one of the first things to happen today is the coordinator of our Secret Santa comes to me. It seems that the person to whom I've been giving items to, is creeped out by the fact the food snacks aren't individually wrapped. IE They said they like salt n vinegar chips. There are no small containers of those I could find, so I get a Pringles tube and pour half of the chips into a ziploc bag for the person.

This is one of those fundamental differences in people. It would never occur to me that it would creep out someone. I mean, this is a staff of teachers, we're NOT trying to poison each other. We are trained in sanitary measures. But because my identity is a secret, it's no good. Especially a guy. Stereotypes being what they are, it'd be easier for me to see a woman getting all super-sanitary about it. My hands never touched it! Ah well... anyway.

Before the holiday show for the school, I had to go with the AP and help determine if we had enough seats for the kindergartners that weren't performing. How should I know? All I wanted to do is get assessments done. But I went, guesstimated, and came back. Only I forgot to tell a coworker she didn't need to bring chairs for their students. They came late, and I'd already had to tell the cranky upper grade teacher that these seats behind me were for the other class. Then they came in with their chairs, which they ended up not needing, because I'd forgotten to tell them. So they looked foolish for not needing chairs, Our whole grade level looked foolish for not having its act together in front of the cranky teacher who's always complaining and dissing events - whatever those events may be.Then we weren't all in our bee costumes, and half the K audience stood up when the K'ers on the risers sang. The other half remained seated.

Then the dancers danced. I hated the song. I didn't like it last night when I heard it. I didn't like it (or the performance) any better today. The dance itself was uninspired. The song was a slow, soulful rendition of "Hark how the bells" by Beyonce or somesuch. I knew the problem was just with me. I get tired of what I perceive to be "black" songs always being performed. The logical side to me though points out the majority of the team are black, as are the sponsors. I guess I just wish there were more variety, or cultural diversity. Does this make me racist?

At lunch one of the girls brought to me a cell phone saying that it belonged one of our boys' mom. Said boy kept yelling at me to give it back to him. Mom didn't know he had it. Remember this is our holiday lunch. White tablecloths on tables. Plastic evergreen garlands with red fabric poinsettias. Parents, grandparents to arrive. And this boy starts crying huge tearful cries in the lunchline because I won't give him back the cellphone. I tell him to stop and get back in line. He doesn't. I ask if he wants to go to the office? No of course not. Then do as I say. On most children in my class, this would work. But this boy's too stubborn. He said "no!", and "Gimme!" So I take him to the office. Or rather, partway he resists, I let go and keep on walking. He chases me, still crying, still yelling. Eventually the principal talks to him and calls his mom to let him know. Granted, he was out of school the previous two days with an ear infection, so I know he wasn't on top of his game.

After lunch we go back to the room to start Math and continue assessing. While I try to start, a girl comes up to me saying that her head is itching really really bad. This is the girl who is always around and playing with the boy who had lice a couple weeks ago. I do a head check (with pencil) through the layers of hair. Sure enough, I see nits. The empty egg cases stuck to hair shafts. I keep looking. Then, to my shuddering dismay, I see the scurrying movement of a louse.

Sigh.

So I walk her to the nurse. Apparently they don't separate kids now or send them home when they have lice. Only in the case of several. To me of course, this defeats the purpose. It's like "we're not going to do anything to prevent a problem until there's a real problem" Sheesh.

I just feel very tired, and over it all. I'm stressed because these assessments aren't done, and I won't be here Friday because I'll be on a field trip.

Is it Christmas yet?

Wow

Damn I love MaidBrigade.

Come home, all the carpets are vacuumed. The pillows are fluffed and arranged neatly. The kitchen floors are mopped, the stove is shiny clean, as is the sink. The kitchen rugs are clean. The bathroom is shiny. My bed is made and the floors are spotless.

Why didn't I do this years ago??

My Weekend

I'm tired, my eyes hurt. I cried this weekend. I must be PMSing.

B (formerly Mr. Broadband) and I averted a crisis last night. Or it felt like one to me. The topic this weekend was snoring. And if you know me, you know I'm a big snorer. He didn't get much sleep Friday night, which I only found out from him late Saturday afternoon. Saturday night, I awoke at 1:48 to find that he'd left the bed and was in the master bedroom (he sleeps in the room that has a better view of trees/no traffic sound).

Feelings from my past relationships where snoring had literally run men from the bedroom cropped up, and I went in the bathroom to cry and blow my nose. I came out, he was sitting on the bed, and I was wordless. He laid down crosswise, so I cuddled in front of him, and silently wept, fearing the worst. Dreading hearing how my snoring was intolerable. Fearing he wouldn't want to see me anymore. He heard me and ask if I was crying, I said yes, and he said, in a commanding voice, "well, stop it". lol so I did. I started to get up and let him have his comfy bed, and I'd go sleep on the firmer master bedroom one, but he said for me to come back here, and what was I doing. I told him it wouldn't be right for me to make him switch, so I was going to take the other. He said no, we'd both sleep in this one. I went back to the bathroom for water, more crying, and blowing of said nose. I came back to discover he'd gotten out earplugs, and we slept the rest of the night that way.

We talked this morning, thankfully. He said it distressed him to see me crying, that he'd left to see if it was less loud in the other room (it wasn't) . It had been all of 10 min with him gone before I'd woken up, and he'd been trying to figure a way to come back and get out the earplugs w/o waking me. He says the earplugs are a manageable workaround for now, but said if we were to ever be married, I might want to consider a surgery, or weightloss (about 50 lbs). He said his snoring was much louder 100lbs ago, but that the pitch of mine was what awoke him.

Other than that bump in the road of life, the weekend was good. Friday night we went to see the movie The Golden Compass. It was good, and for what it was, not a bad retelling of the book by Philip Pullman. I'd say read the book though. The words are beautiful, and uninhibited by fear of reprisal from the Catholic church. I was shocked that the movie didn't end where the book did-I was waiting for that high adrenaline moment- but I can certainly see how this makes more sense market wise.

B had told me that my ornaments came in. I had been telling him about 2 Star Wars ornaments that my parents tree has that I really love- the Millenium Falcon, and the X Wing. Both of which light up when plugged in to the string of lights. Since he does E-Bay a lot, he asked me to let him take care of it.

So when he tells me Thursday that my ornaments came in- I'm expecting, you know..... 2 ornaments. Nope. He got me *17* Hallmark Star Wars ornaments. Wow... talk about blown away. Sunday he helped me decorate my tree with them.

Saturday B and I went to the Scott Antique Show at the Exposition Center near Jonesboro road. We were there with the purpose of finding me a Christmas present I liked. We found one. I won't go into details, but it was nothing so grand as my friend Leah got- She got ENGAGED!!! :)

Maybe one day, I will be too.

I am sick after all.

I stayed home today. Had a sub at work. Slept most of the day, read some. I finished Brave New World, and started Ayn Rand's Atlas Shrugged. I like both of them, though they're very different. What I like best though, is that feeling of losing track of time while I become immersed in a story. It's been since summer that I had books that I could do this with. Nice to be back.

I made a BBQ chicken pizza for dinner tonight. Surprise surprise, I didn't eat the whole thing. I only ate half. Felt full after half.

Well, I am sick after all.

Tuesday Musings

I came home sick today. Was sick to my stomach at work, topped with my head cold I'd been battling I didn't think it a good idea to stay. I have a sub for tomorrow. Went to the doc today, and only definitive thing he could find was an ear infection. Good news is he gave me samples of my Lexapro, and the Publix pharmacy was filling Amoxicilin prescriptions for free.

FREE. Have you heard about this? Some pharmacies, certain drugs- FREE. Now, I'm grateful and all for free, but I'm wondering why? What's the catch? I even jokingly asked if they had a bunch of drugs that were nearing the end of their shelf life. I was laughingly told no, more came in each day.
Hmm.

I see from rereading my blog I forgot to mention something else that happened Friday. A delivery came for me at school around 2:50pm. Thank goodness I hadn't left at 2:45 but was tying up loose ends. Inside this HUGE box from 1800Flowers was a very large teddy bear with a velvet heart, and a dozen red roses. Yup. From Mr. Broadband. I've been thinking of this past weekend, and the thing I remember the most is how I felt. I felt cared for, protected, looked after. I didn't have to worry about anything. That was a great feeling. Part of me, the cynical realist, reminds me that this could all go away, go horribly wrong. I should take care with plunging my heart headlong. But I really like him. I'm trying to just take each day as it comes for now.

And in local news Rodney Battles was found guilty of killing a quickie mart owner. Local news coverage is here. Something about this, about his reaction to the verdict, about his mother telling that the man was first described as being much taller than her son- I can't help but wonder that maybe the wrong man was convicted.

My Weekend

I had a fabulous weekend with Mr. Broadband.

Friday night we went for dinner at a place The Lobster Bar. It's downstairs from a steak restaurant called Chops, and offers all of Chops' meats, plus fresh lobster and seafood. It was really cool. The decor is kind of like Lex Luthor's subway mansion in Superman II. After dinner, we went for a drive through a Christmas lights display put on by a University.

Saturday morning I made breakfast for us. Steak and eggs with red and green bell peppers, onions, garlic, and 2 kinds of cheeses. Hashbrowns, bacon, fresh fruit, OJ. I had a blast making it. His kitchen is much nicer than my own.

After lunch he took me to a sports shoe place called Phidippides. All the shoes are in the normal range of $80-$130 (man, that's normal???) but the service is excellent. They watch your gait as you walk for them. They notice if your feet come down in certain ways, and then recommend shoes that will help correct that. FINALLY! See my post here, if you want to know about a previous experience elsewhere. After pinpointing what my feet were doing, she brought out a variety of shoes, watched me walk some more. Once we got the right correction, she brought out still more so that I could judge purely on comfort. I finally found the right pair for me, in New Balance brand. And surprise surprise, Mr. Broadband bought them for me as a gift, to help with the walking. Now I don't have sore feet just from walking. Yay!

We drove to Helen, visited Habersham Winery. Got a case for my dad of his favorite muscadine wine to take with me when I go home for Christmas. We went into the kitschy part of town, which was wonderfully decorated for Christmas. Alpine architecture and Christmas go hand in hand. Oddly enough though, it was pretty warm out. Mid 60's I'd say. Hopefully we can go back when it's cold. Kudos to us for not stopping to get fudge!

We drove back a different way, driving through mountains and it was beautiful. We stopped in Blairsville and saw the end of a Christmas parade, and drove by the town square where they were auctioning off a woman's devil food cake. Small town fun :) Wholesome. Good to find out about it, perhaps next year can go and enjoy it for a day.

We got back into town late, and instead of eating out (which I didn't feel like) we went to the store and got some stuff to take back to his house. We ate in front of the TV watching Sci-Fi channel, and then BBC at 9 for Torchwood, and at 10 Graham Norton.

This morning was full of wonderful laziness, laying about in bed and talking. Watching the leaves fall from trees in his yard. Breakfast at La Madeleine's. Afterwards we went to Barnes and Noble. He bought 2 books for me based on discussions we'd had. I'm reading the first now- Brave New World. It's supposed to be a faster read than the other, Ayn Rand's Atlas Shrugged. On the way back to my place he remembered that my Christmas tree lights needed a new bulb, so we stopped and picked up some replacements. Unfortunately, there was another issue and we had to scrap the whole string. He went and got another for me, and put them on the tree. He's very thoughtful.

All in all, I feel like I had a "vacation weekend" because of the roadtrip. I came home and relaxed, but later had kind of a chilled feeling so I took a hot bath. I hope I'm not coming down with something. I drank several packets of Emer-Gen-C, and will prolly take some Nyquil before heading to bed early.

7 Things Most People Don't Know About Me

Tagged by Chutney.

1. In 8th grade I was the only white girl on the cheerleading team.

2. When I was 19 and in Japan, I partied with some clowns from Ringling Bros Circus in their hotel room.

3. In Japan, I liked a yukatta at a hostel so much, I "lifted" it, thanking them in broken Japanese in the room journal for "the lovely gift of robe".

4. Once, at 2am while in college, I and a female friend who was a free spirit went down to the unlit soccer field, took off our clothes and just sat and walked around naked. It felt odd to put clothes back on.

5. My favorite time to visit Disney World is after dark. In high school there were nights of special events we went to that started at 8:30pm and ended at 2am.

6. I have 3 teeth instead of 4 between my bottom incisors.

7. I can wiggle my ears.


Consider yourself tagged.

TGIF

Good morning readers :)

I have been going to the Y three times this week. M-W-F. It felt good on the days inbetween to take off. Let my sore muscles rest. I'd been walking up to a quick pace, then jogging for a minute, then walk a minute, then jog etc.

Work has been ok this week. Although I've had some struggles with my mentoree. Wed. I had to go find her to see what she wanted to make on Thursday. I also made sure she knew to be at school at 7 Thursday. Well, she waltzed in at 7:35. This will never do. I spent money and time on her, for naught. So I read her a riot act. I want her to realize the importance of keeping her word and being on time. I'm not a homework assignment that can be turned in late. With 10 minutes left till the morning bell rang, I made her go sit in the cafeteria and wait. Then I went to her homeroom teacher and told her about what happened and what was said. Hopefully I'll find out today if what yesterday had a positive impact.

Tonight Mr. Broadband is taking me to dinner at a nice place. It's a surprise, so I'm not sure where it'll be. Saturday we're going to Helen, GA to a winery there. I want to buy a case of my dad's favorite wine to take home over Christmas break.

I can't complain about life. Which is good.

Get Back Jojo

I am back in town, safe and sound.

My drives down and back were sunny and uneventful, just like I like them. Both went pretty quick 7 and half hours instead of 8 or more, but I guess doing mostly 80 for that time helps too. I saw a lot less cops today than I did on Wednesday. I suppose tomorrow will be their big "Interstate Party" day.

The visit with parental units was good. Dad looks thin to me, but he's much stronger, I can tell just from his hugs. Mom was mom- offering to make me food, coffee, etc all for the chance at showing me motherly love. No wonder I have food issues, eh? hehe. It's nice though, to have someone make it for me for a change.

I took all my laundry home. No, literally. I mean all my laundry. Since I don't have a washer/dryer, and haven't been to the commercial one in awhile, I've had a lot built up - well, except for those items I tub-washed weeks ago. I knew it was too much when dad's eyes kinda popped out of his head and he wondered how I got it all in my Jetta. Honestly though, it was only 2 big baskets. Ok, 2 and a small. Alright, so one wasn't really a basket persay, but a laundry hamper more like. I did somewhere between 8 and 10 loads.

But now it's ALL CLEAN!

I did actually get bored. There's only so much to do when it's a tad too chilly for the beach, and I'm not into football watching like Mom and Dad. So I went to the bookstore, and to Wal-Mart. At the latter I picked up some yarn and needles and started a nice blue muffler for Mr. Broadband. Hopefully it'll be done in time to give him as a Hanukkah present.

I didn't do a whole lot while I was there- except eat. Not just Turkey day traditionals, but homemade omg-to-die-for-Andes-mint-chip-cookies, and frozen Reese's Peanut Butter Cup Minis. I mean seriously, this is why I don't keep these things in my own home. I have ZERO will power and control. Not to mention the pumpkin pie, although I did better with that than the cookies. I only ate a total of 3 slices from the 2 pies. I had wayyyy too much stuffing though, and the gravy soaking it didn't help.

So what's the first thing I do when I get into town? Unload my car? Newp- I drive straight to the Y and walk 1.19 miles in 30 minutes. I think it was more out of excess caffeine from the 2 Full Throttle beverages I drank on the drive than any real sense of guilt. I actually wanted to go to the local Y while I was in FL, but there wasn't one close by.

So I'm home, and my laundry is folded in large containers, taunting me to put them away rather than leave them in the living room- which of course would be the sensible place to put on and remove clothing.

I'll see Mr. Broadband tonight, and tomorrow we're attending UUCA together.

I feel.... oddly productive.

Must be the caffeine.

Can You Tell Me How To Get...

There's an interesting article on the early days of Sesame Street It made me think back, because in the early 70s I was an avid watcher of said program. I also tried to watch Electric Company, but it seemed too dull in comparison to the Street.

Mr. Broadband came over last night, bringing an early Christmas gift for my parents- a 'puter. Small, not a huge hard drive, flat screen monitor. I'm hoping it'll be an upgrade for them. We went out to dinner to a place called Tossed I had a really good BBQ chicken salad. Enough left over for lunch today.

And yes, I made it to the Y this morning.

I get another new student this morning. A girl this time, native Spanish-speaker. I'm meeting my mentoree at 7am, we're going to make a salad from a recipe in one of my books.

This afternoon I need to get the oil changed in my car for the trip to my parents. I bought travel food, and I need to pack the car.

A Healing Time

Today, for the first time in 3 years, I have started to put up Christmas decorations. Why the long time inbetween? I think I associated a lot of my holiday things with my ex leaving, since it was right before Christmas all those years ago. For me this in an indication I'm healed, the return to joy of holiday festivities in my own place, that make me happy rather than sad.

I set up my collection of Blue Santas. Yes boys and girls, Santa was not not always depicted in red and white. Those colors were solidified due to Coca-Cola advertising. For a brief history, see here Anywho... I'm glad I feel like celebrating.

I bought a new iPod nano from Target for myself this afternoon. Green. Wheeee.... a new toy!

Merry Christmas to me.

Great Weekend

I had a great weekend, better than expected, even.

I left a message for Mr. Massage to call me, so I could cancel our date for the 30th. He didn't, so I texted him this morning that I wouldn't be seeing him again.

Besides, I really only have an interest in seeing Mr. Broadband. I got very comfortable with him this weekend, and look forward to more time spent together.

I went to the Y today, for the first time in months. I was amazed at how hard it was just to walk for 30 minutes, let alone at any speed. Kinda lets me know how far I've dropped since August.

My iPod might be on the blink. I tried to listen to it in the car this morning, and it just fast forwarded through songs, without playing them. It's a mini, and I know they had a rep for battery problems. This one lasted probably 3 years?

Going Well for a Change

Just a note to say things are going well. I have 2 new students at school, and they're behind where the others are at. I may need to start a new reading group with just the 2 of them. The one with the most work ahead knows 5 uppercase letters and 6 lowercase.

Mr. Broadband and I are going out this weekend. Last night he surprised me by taking me to a high end seafood place in town. It was The Oceanaire Their main claim to fame is that they only serve the freshest seafood. If they serve it, then 24hours ago it was swimming happily. The menu changes daily according to what is flown in. The ambiance of the restaurant was incredible, and talk about courteous waitstaff! I asked one where the restrooms were, and rather than just point, he showed me. While he was taking me, everytime we came next to another person or another server, he made sure they waited until I had passed. Even the coatcheck lady physically helped me into my coat. For dinner Mr. Broadband chose Yellowfin Ahi Tuna. But rather than choose from the menu selections, he asked for it sashimi style (sushi essentially). I chose the North Carolina Red Trout with a sweet potato and red delicious apple hash. We got clam chowder and a jumb lump crabcake for appetizers. Our side was something out of this world called a Mac and Bleu. Macaroni and Bleu Cheese! I asked for a light red wine that would go well with my fish, and was brought a Summerwood Pinot Noir. It was one of those experiences you see on the high end cooking shows on cable. Fabulous.

Earlier this week, my monitor went on the fritz. Mr. Broadband called me late, about a quarter to 9 just to talk. I mentioned my monitor, because I wasn't sure what was wrong with it, only that the video had started going haywire. He asked if I'd like to him to come over right then and take a look at it. So he did! He brought another monitor, so we found out it wasn't my hardware. He started my 'puter in safemode and downloaded some updated drivers. That didn't help. He left about 10:30 thinking it might be the video card. Overnight he did research and found out the fans on my particular card were notorious for going out. Sure enough, that's what it was. The next day he brought me a new video card, an e-GeForce 6200. He said it's a good one for computer gamers.

Today we have a long day together. He's picking me up at 11 and we're going to an Indian cinema to see Om Shanti Om I saw it last weekend, and can't wait to see it again. Plus, I want to share it with him. Then we'll go back to his place for a bit, have dinner, and then we're meeting a friend of his for a movie at the High Museum of Art. It's called My Mexican Shivah. Since Mr. Broadband is Jewish, I hope it'll be educational a little bit into his culture- err even though he's not Mexican :P

On the henna front, I have an appointment here at 10am this morning, and tomorrow afternoon I'm doing an hour party for 3 ladies.

Things are good for a change.

My Weekend

So it's Sunday and I am at home, feeling like I have nothing to do. After the past few days of activities and busy-ness, I guess it's no surprise.

Let's start with Thursday. Mr. Broadband picked me up to take me to a concert of the Trans-Siberian Orchestra . Traffic was crazy downtown, very slow. Apparently there was something else going on that night as well. We finally made it to the garage and parked. We got into the Arena with about 20 minutes to spare. As we were both hungry, we wolfed down burgers from one of the vendors before going to find our seats.

I had mused aloud that I was curious as to what the seats were like since this was normally an arena for hockey and basketball. His comment at the time was "well, our seats will be a little different." I remember thinking... "wha? Did he get a box or something for us?" We enter at portal three, and I see we're at the very back of the auditorium and can see the entire stage. I think "great! we have a clear view of everything- no funky side seats" But he kept on walking down the stairs.... and walking and walking. "Wow" I think, he got us seats on the floor!! This will be awesome!" Little did I know. We keep walking. Guess where our seats were? FRONT ROW! Just left of center. omfg... I have NEVER, felt so special before.

The concert itself was awesome. Lights, lasers, snow, fire, fireworks, 4 male singers, 4 female singers, an 8 piece string section, a lead female on electric fiddle, several guitarists/bassists, a drummer, and 2 keyboardists. Lots of fog machines making fog roll down the front of the stage. Tons of choreographed lights, complete with hanging/movable/programmed square frames with more lights. I couldn't help a morbid thought at what it would be like if one came loose and fell down. Thankfully, it didn't. Mr. Broadband put his arm around me during the concert. I liked that. We held hands walking back to the car, and once back at my apt, he walked me to the door and gave me a courteous kiss on the cheek.

Friday night he picked me up to go to his place. It was dark when we arrived, so I couldn't well see the grounds. I'm hoping to get a return visit next weekend. As soon as I got out of the car though, I could smell the wonderful scent of smoky charcoal laced with garlic and cooking beef. Apparently for the previous 12 hours, he'd been slow roasting this rib-roast in his Big Green Egg grill.

We went inside, and he gave me the tour. His home is beautiful, lots of real wood and old architecture that I found to be warm and inviting. He's not done with the renovation, but it's come a long way from the photos he showed me. We talked awhile waiting for the final phase of the roast, then ate dinner- steak, broccoli, and twice baked potatoes. The roast was phenomenal.

When we were done, he asked if I was up for dessert. He wanted to know where the best place in Atlanta for desserts that I had been. I didn't have an answer. He took me to his favorite spot, the Marietta Diner. Even at 11pm on a Friday night, it was crowded. There was a wait line out the door, but because we were only 2, we got seated right away. We shared a "Death by Chocolate" that lived up to its name. I couldn't finish even half.

He took me home, walked me to my door, and we kissed :) I really like him. I spent most of Saturday thinking about all the time I'd spent with him.

Saturday though I had things to do. I was hosting a henna party for girls from my church group that night, and needed to get ready. I also had a hair appointment. That evening the party went well, aside from me giving inadequate directions for finding my place for the first time in the dark. About 10 last night I called Mr. Broadband as I knew it was getting late for him, even though the party was still going on. It was good to hear his voice again, and I found it interesting he asked me a lot of questions about the church service. I didn't feel right about asking him to come right then. But we did make plans for him to come visit my school this week for an International night performance. Mostly I want him to see my classroom, and where I spend so much of my time and energy.

This morning was church. A message on Gandhi's approach to non-violent conflict. It was good, but afterwards I found myself almost at a loss for what to do. I decided on downloading some TSO from iTunes and listening to the concert music while I washed dishes.

I haven't heard from Mr. Massage since a text message on Thursday. Right at this moment though, I don't really care if I hear from him again. While I really enjoyed bowling with him, and while he's a fabulous kisser, there's a lot to be said for having one's act together, and staying in communication with me.

My Day

My day went pretty well. We had our usual start to the morning, then computer lab, then came back for reading and creation of an "N" book. Then lunch, then math. They're working on patterns, and our first activity today was to look around the classroom and find patterns. In the ceiling, clothing, art on walls etc. Then we did a work sheet, and on the back they started a pattern, and then had to take it to a friend to finish, and vice versa. They loved that, and I'd much rather see them talking about math between themselves than have me talk at them and be bored.

Then came PE, and recess. After recess one of the aunts of a birthday boy in our class brought cupcakes. So instead of getting right to nap, we had cupcakes with lil boy and girl Shrek-baby rings in the frosting. And of course they made a huge mess. One of the reasons we try and have it during the lunch time. Ah well, next time we'll take them outside to eat.

oh, and it looks like I may be mentoring a 5th grade girl. Her mom is almost non-existent, and she needs a role model. We kind of hit it off accidentally yesterday afterschool. She was eating hummus with pita bread, and I remarked how great that was. She was stunned, because all her friends had been giving her grief about how it was weird and looked like baby poo. Later a teacher asked me if I had a mentoree yet, because she could need one. So today I spoke with her homeroom teacher to find out some more info on her. She's new to our school. I made hummus last night, and will take some in to her tomorrow.

I'm thinking of meeting with her before school and teaching her some simple cooking recipes. Then, because math is her weakspot, challenge her to double or triple a recipe, or cut the amounts in half. :P Yes, I'm twisted that way.

Morning :)

Good Morning :)

Just a short note before I head off to school. On the IBS front, I've been adding a lot more soluble fiber to my diet. That, combined with watching what I eat, has seemed to lessen the symptoms.

On the guy front, Mr. Massage has disappointed me a bit. He hasn't let me know about Friday, even after a message yesterday saying he'd find out and tell me yesterday. So I've made other plans.

Mr. Broadband is taking me to a concert Thursday, and has also asked me out for Friday. I sent him a message this morning asking what he wants to do Friday :D

I like a guy that actively shows me he's interested in me, whether it's just a short call or email to see how I am. Mr. B is doing that.

Bowling for Kisses

So I had a good date last night :) I'm excited and and a lil anxious all at once about this guy, cause I know there's a strong possibility of me falling for him. I'm wary of the fact that we seem to have great chemistry, because in the past that's always led to things moving way too fast. I don't want to go too fast with this one.

I got a letter from my apt complex about the level 4 drought now for all of GA and to conserve water. So while I didn't take a quick shower instead of a bath this morning, I did take a page from my Japanese homestay mother. I used the clean bathwater to do some laundry, and then hung up the items to dry.

Anyway, so it goes.

The Day Before Halloween

We had a busy day at school. Tuesday was the parade day. Storybook Character Parade is what our school does instead of "Halloween". The kids came dressed in costumes, we took pics. I even got into the act.

There's a book called "A Bad Case of Stripes"
I dressed up (down?) in nightgown and slippers and painted my hands and face to look like the girl on the cover. Then I took a lollipop stick and marked it to look like a thermometer. I walked around with the book and got a ton of smiles at school. Soon as the parading from room to room was over though I washed it off. Too itchy since it was dried paint.

Afterschool I had a meeting at another building regarding my certified gifted class. I was there till 5pm.

The new coat I ordered came, and it fits perfectly. I tore the cardboard lid off the box and bent it to make a tunnel for the guinea pigs. They had the time of their lives, running through it and coming out, hop (which means they're happy or excited) then turn around and run through the other direction, and start it all over again.

Then the phone rang about 730pm last night. It was the massage guy! We talked on the phone for awhile, and now I have a bowling date for Friday night. huh. Imagine that.

Monday at the Pumpkin Patch

We got back to the school at 2:00.The kids had a ton of fun. I think I must be getting old. Either that or I know what a parent feels like. I have never seen so many other schools there before.

We got there about 10:20, and went to the picnic area to eat lunch. Almost all the tables were taken. Most of our group headed off to the left to the last tables, I headed to the right because A) I'd brought a blanket for the kids to sit on and B) it was in the sun. On a cold windy day, this was a good thing.

Then it was cleanup, and trips to the port-o-johns. Mine didn't have TP, so I brought out the tissue I'd kept in my pockets for the sniffles.

We sat in the bus for about 20 minutes until it was our turn to start the tour. If it'd been warmer, or less windy we could have played duck duck goose.

We walk up to the front, and my group is told to go to the "milking cows". It was a barrel covered in fake fur with a cutout head on one end, and rubber "udders" under the other. I thought it'd be a great chance for the kids to try milking, but oh no.... the kids weren't allowed to! This was for the TEACHERS. uh... wtf? Yeah. They pit 2 teachers against each other to see who can milk the most in a certain time. I lost. Yet even after we were done, the kids still wanted to try it.

Then it was off the to the moonwalk houses. Yeah, at a pumpkin patch. Who knew? Take off the shoes, put them in a wheelbarrow. Hope that wheelbarrow doesn't get mixed in with some othre wheelbarrow for some other school. Let kids run willynilly through 3 different inflatable houses. One designed like an obstacle course, one like an elephant that contained stuff inside to throw at each other (beach balls etc) and a "scary" haunted house one that kept deflating when kids held the exit open for too long. At the end of all this excitement we then try and find A) each other, and B) our wheelbarrow. This was about the point I lost my sense of humor. We stopped before the next activity and did a head count to make sure we hadn't lost anyone inside the houses.

Next it was the maze! Oh, not a corn maze, but more of a wooden fence variety. Now, unless I'm with someone that I want to get lost with, and find a secluded hideyplace with, I don't fancy mazes. I don't see the sense in it. But to stay with the kids, I went through it as well. After the maze came the pirate ship.

Yes, you read me right. I wrote pirate ship. Again, at a pumpkin patch! Who knew? The kids got to go under and over the ship, and then slide down the plank as it were. Then there was the bean-bag toss into the pumpkin-shaped plywood with a hole in it. Again though, only the teacher got a turn. wtf?? Let the kids have a try.

Next was the hay ride. A tractor with a loooong trailer with wooden seats came up. There were sprinkles of hay on the floor, so I guess that counts. We drove through the patch, and then back in the woods where there were cutouts of cartoon characters nailed to trees. After the ride, was the edumacational video on how a pumpkin plant grows, then a look at the science center with real like snakes and birds and water monitor.

After the science center, we were ready to visit the petting zoo! I tell ya, there was soooo much entertainment for the $10.00 value! Everyone was thirsty again, but we didn't have any water for them, and if we did, they'd have to use the port-o-johns again.

Then we collected our pumpkins. Each child received a bag with a pumpkin in it, as did the teachers and chaperones. Then it was back to the buses.

Did I mention how full our 2 buses were? We had 2 first grades with 22 students each, and 3 kindergartens, plus approx. 3 parent chaperones per class plus teachers. We had to split up my class on the trip down. So when we returned, we had the same buses. Well, my assistant on the other bus forgot that I had some students with me, so her count kept coming up short. My bus left, so I called her to let her know I had the others with me.

The drive back was uneventful. Some kids fell asleep cradling their pumpkins. That was the best part :P

Saturday night

So the guy I was sposed to have a date with just left. I'll call him Mr. Broadband. He was here for about 2 and half hours, even with me being a sick mess. As soon as he opened the door, he said something to the effect of "wow, you look awful" To which I replied with my sarcastic best, "Thank you! LOVELY to see you too".

He brought me still hot matzoh ball soup (that's Jewish version of chicken and dumplings) and it was the BEST I'd ever had. Okay, it was also the first I'd ever had, but man was it good. Chock full of honest to goodness chicken fat gleaming on the surface, and enough salt to make Noah feel thirsty.

He also brought me ice cream, Ben and Jerry's, and some Challah bread, and a decongestant thing I'd asked for. OH... AND a 320 GIG hard drive. omg! My old was was only 75 gig, so I thought I was in 7th heaven. Only to find out that 320 is considered small these days. Sheeesh I'm 5 years out of style.

So I ate, he installed the drive in addition to my original, and we talked and watched an Addams family movie.

The whole time I was thinking, this is really nice- and - I wish I weren't germ laden and feeling bad. At the end of the night he decided to risk a hug anyway. I'm really glad he came over.

Saturday morning

I didn't go to the costume party last night. I had a fever instead. Tucked myself into bed, shivering, until the electric pad kicked in.

I'm supposed to meet with some henna folks today. I'm hoping Indian food will clear my sinuses. These are other artists I'm meeting with, not clients.

I emailed my date for tonight, told him what I was going through, and how an hour in the graveyard at night might not be the best thing for my cold.

He was understanding and emailed back that perhaps instead he could come over, install a larger hard drive in my puter, and see my art- bringing me sick person food to boot. I thought that was sweet of him :)

Friday

I spent the day in bed, sleeping. I called the doc's office but they were closed today, so no go. It's traveling fast, this virus or whatever. Yesterday it was in my nose and sinuses, today it's coming down into my chest.

I got up at 3 and was at my massage appointment at 4. Now if you're a regular reader you'll remember 2 weeks ago I had a massage where the therapist and I had great chemistry, and we pretty much talked throughout the whole thing. At the end I left him a note. This was with the same guy. I hadn't heard from him since.

We get into the room, and he asks me for a hug, and how my week's going. I make nice conversation and then he says, "so, I got your note.... and me too." It took me a minute to realize this meant he was interested in getting to know me too. I told him when he didn't call, I just assumed he had a girlfriend. No he said, just extremely busy. He then said, "now, this means you can't continue to see me clinically" I have no problem with that.

Then of course I'm sposed to be relaxed when he's workin' on me! I never did get the full effect of almost-sleepiness, but it was still good anyway.

When it was all over, he said he'd call me. We'll see about that.

In the meantime, I have a date tomorrow night for the Oakland Cemetery, and then steak afterwards.

First!

First cold of the year is here. No, not the change in temperature. The kind of cold that is scratchy throat, sneezy drippy stuffy nose, the stuff of NyQuil commercials.

I'm amazed actually that I made it to.... 2 and a half months pretty much before I got my first cold from the kiddies.

I've called in a sub for tomorrow. Gonna sleep in, not stress, feed myself chicken broth and homemade tomato soup and oj.

I talked to the guy I've got a date with Saturday. He's very interesting :) I'm looking forward to the weekend, I just need to take care of myself.

It's Never Boring in Kindergarten

So I came in to work this morning, just barely, after a bad attack of IBS. After having two days of almost nothing, I decided I could "help" the situation with some fiber cereal and kelfir. Boy did it ever. But not the way I had in mind.

After finishing up in the restroom, I made my way to my classroom. The custodian was in there, mopping up what had happened overnight. You see, on Monday, I came in to discover water everywhere near the sink. We had a leaking pipe. Unable to turn the water off, we put a large bowl under the sink to pick up the drip. We dragged my large rug outside to dry, moved playhouse furniture that had gotten wet. Keep in mind this is just a slow drip- that had 2 days to accumulate.

So before I left last night, I changed the bowl, emptying it of water. 15 hours however, is too long to go. Water had spread more this morning than Monday, since there was no rug to soak up most of it. Also, todays flood did manage to creep to the bottom loft reading center. The rug there is wet in the closest corner.

So my day was off to a great start. Fortunately for me, my morning was helped by two things: PE and Library. PE was from 8:15 to 8:45. Normally it's at noon, but the schedule is changed this week due to testing in grades 1, 3, and 5. And yes, the testing means my assistant is in another room proctoring during the morning. After PE, the Library Lady brought her lil red wagon of books to our class for a visit. What a nice surprise! Two weeks earlier, we'd missed library, since the media center is often used for small group testing. Sine our Library Lady is a certified teacher in her own right, I was able to leave them in her care for 30 minutes or so.

When I got back, the students were choosing books from the wagon. Library Lady left, and I read a couple of the books the students had chosen. After that, I gave directions for the "Pp" word book they were to make. As they started in on that, it was already 10am, and my assistant was back from testing.

10:40 was blessed lunch.

After lunch we started choosing names for our pig for the Great Pig Race.

What's that? You've never heard of the Great Pig Race? For shame.... it's the annual ending to the fall fundraiser. Each class that sells an average of 3 items per student gets a pig to race. The pigs are battery operated fuzzy stuffed animals. They waddle, then stop to snort and wag their tail, then walk some more. The uppergrades race. The lower grades race. The winner of each of the first two races then race. The winner of that wins a party for their class- either pizza, or popcorn or ice cream. It's pretty much all luck as to where in the walk cycle your pig is when the race begins.

At 12:30 we'd chosen a name and a costume for our pig. We were: Ninja Pig! We found a white belt from dressup to put around his head a la Karate Kid. Then using strips of construction paper, we made ones for ourselves and wrote Ninja Pig on them. A couple of signs were created, and at 1pm we were ready to roll into the gym for the races.

I have a lil bit mixed feelings on the event. On the one hand it's exciting and loud and fun. On the other hand, it's exciting and loud and revvs up their little internal engines. When your own class pig doesn't win... some aren't sure what to do with all that built up feeling meeting with disappointment. Some get mad, some cry, but most are ok. Luckily today we were able to run around outside on the playground afterwards.

Most of today I felt like it was all I could do to get through the day, wanting nothing more than to go home and crawl into bed. I probably will go to bed early tonight, which I didn't do last night.

Why you ask? Well, I was on a first date :D (big grin) And he's interesting, and kinda sweet, and has a nice sense of humor. He's a techie geek, and has worked with computers and networks a lot. We're going on a 2nd date Saturday. Oakland Cemetery has it's Halloween guided walking tour that night. Should be fun.

But when I came home last night, it was only 10 minutes to Heroes, and by the end of it I did go to bed, but tossed and turned for an hour. So then I got up to watch the rest of Xmen2 on DVD before finally going to sleep for real at midnight.

Whew! I didn't want to get up with my alarm this morning :P But it's never boring in Kindergarten.

Good to Me

I've been being good to ME this Saturday morning. I slept in, first of all. While I was laying in bed, pondering the day, I realized I wanted the sort of pampering that a mani-pedi provides. So I called and booked myself a 10am appointment at my favorite place. The massage chairs there are to die for! I got red on my fingernails, and purple on my toes. It's unusual for me to pick 2 dif. colors for nails. Usually I opt for the same, but I was feeling spunky today.

After unwinding for an hour in that oh so beauteous of chairs, with highly polished pretty nails, I walked across the shopping way to a drugstore and got some new cosmetics. New cosmetics always make me feel good. The sunshine of the day and cool temps were an added bonus.

After shopping, I walked over to a local pizza place, intending on getting a slice and a pint. The cute but desperately-in-need-of-a-shave server informed me slices were only M-F so I did the only sensible thing. Ordered a small and took half home.

It was very pleasant sitting in the sun, noshing on crispy pizza and reading Creative Loafing. I took my time. Fresh air is a wonderful thing.

I'm back home now, and contemplating my bed for a nap.

Ahh, it's good to be good to me.

Good Morning

Well here it is Thursday morning, and I've been lacking in my blogging.

Yesterday I finally got my case study finished and in the mail to my instructor for this gifted class I'm taking.

Yesterday we had a party for the teacher and para of the year. And it occurred to me, what a huge part of life being a classroom teacher is.

If I became a teacher of only gifted and talented students, I'd lose some of the feeling of community. At least, I think I would. There is something in me that loves being able to see my students grow up. To have that base knowledge of how they were when they came to my school, and to see where they've gone from there.

And while there are perks to working alone, it'd be different too to not be a part of a team. My grade level has a wonderful team.

So now, I don't know about all that.

What I do know though, is that the 1st grade teacher had a huge grillout this past weekend, and he brought me STEAK!. I shall have steak for breakfast.

mmmm

Oh My Stars And Garters!

MaidBrigade just left. It took 3 women 2 hours to clean my apartment from top to bottom and my oh my... it has NEVER been so clean! Everything in the kitchen sparkles, the hardwood floors are shiny and mopped, gone is every trace of dust- even from the picture frames. Whooosh.

When they first came, I felt embarassment again. That lil judgemental voice in my head that said I must be extremely lazy to have to pay someone to clean my place. I tried to reason with it, and explain that I was actually helping local economy by hiring someone to do it.

There are no words to express the feeling of calm and delight I have at this very moment.

Wow.

Sunday Cream

I had a good day today. A very good day, by all accounts. I got to sleep in, go to a 2 hour massage.

Instead of being the relaxing Swedish type thing I was expecting, it ended up being a work out of pressure points and relieving stiff tendon points.

The bright spot was my therapist. A really funny guy with great energy. Like a big teddy bear. Of course, the fact that he had a British accent, and long hair didn't hurt either. We got along great, and I was amazed that he could make me laugh even in pain.

Not one to leave things alone, I left him a note that I was interested in getting to know him. So, who knows?

Yesterday at the festival was pretty good. It felt like a slow day. I spent most of my time sitting around, and felt a lil bad for my helpers that they would be bored. That night when I got home though, and counted my earnings, it surpassed what I'd thought. Yay!

I've been picking up my apartment, I have the cleaners coming tomorrow- sometime between 8-5. Kinda hope it's later, just so I can clean more.

My IBS is still here :/ Thanks Vickie for the links, I'll be checking up on them.

Oops gotta go.

I went to sleep early last night. Went to bed between 7:30 and 8pm. Yes, that's early, even for me! I knew I wanted to get up and go walk at the Y this morning.

IBS stopped me cold though. I've been having it for the past week or so, usually when I get up in the mornings. I thought, if I get up early and go walk, it'll help me manage/reduce the stress I have that is triggering the IBS in the first place. Well, I didn't get out of the house soon enough. It hit again, and I was reduced to reading magazines in the bathroom and then taking a hot bath to relax every nerve ending in my body.

I hate when I get like this, it's my body's way of telling me I'm doing something I don't want to do but I'm not listening. In order to make me pay attention, I'm being forced to meditate as it were on the porcelain god. Great. Thanks.

I don't want to do the festival I have coming up on Saturday. I feel like it's taxing the limits of what I can reasonably do without downtime. The pessimist in me thinks that it won't be worth the time and effort. I mean really, 10am to 7pm. On a weekend, when I could be at home relaxing.

What do I want to do? I want to get a 2 hour massage on Friday, and then conk out and do nothing on Saturday. But I feel like I can't. I have 2 students coming Saturday. I told everyone at the faculty meeting about it. I even paid to be able to be at this festival. I'd lose that money.

And of course I have another festival next weekend too. I think i'm finding the limits of my enjoyment of all this.

Oops, gotta go. God is calling me again.

The Write Way

Sometimes I think of this blog and go, "I don't have anything to write". No premade stories that I just HAVE to tell, nothing I've been thinking about all day and want to get down on paper.

Those are probably the times I need to blog the most. When I don't have something to say, because, as in all things, I just truly need to get down to the bottom and let it come out. Sometimes I've been surprised at what I've found.

Take today for example.

I had the whole class to myself, as my teacher assistant was proctoring a standardized test in 1st grade. I will do this again tomorrow and Thursday. Friday there's no school for the kiddos, neither is there on Monday (nor for me... wheee!)

I woke up before my alarm went off, feeling wide awake. Not the "oh boy, I got enough sleep!!!" but a "I'm awake, I'm conscious... oh crap, there goes the alarm". To stave off the sleepies, I of course drank copious amounts of coffee this morning at work.

Work was ok.

I worked on my case study for my gifted certification class, and didn't leave school till 4pm. I was sooooo tired. I had a meeting with my coach at the Y, and found out I'd graduated the "coach approach". Meaning, I take it, I'd been seeing her long enough and consistently enough to the point where they want me to now try it out on my own for 3 months before checking in again. It felt a lil weird to get a "graduation" certificate when I haven't reached any of my goals.... unless continuing to start after stopping is a goal. And I guess it's always good to get back up again.

I've been stressed about my henna festivals and appointments this month. Normally I wouldn't be, but it's on top of the work I'm doing for certification at school. I'd totally misplaced my info packet for the one this weekend, and then found it. THIS is what happens when I clean, people! I can't find things, because my brain doesn't work that way. It remembers where things were last, not where I put something while cleaning so that it'd be safe.

Sigh.

I was reading Oprah magazine and came across some descriptions of gourmand perfumes. It sounded so deliciously intriguing I googled some. I found luckyscent.com where I could buy small vial samples to try fragrances. The order came today. From Vanille, to Greedy Chocolate to Maharanih and more.

Greedy Chocolate was too ... chocolate, and Maharanih was too... perky. Sel de Velviter would be attractive on a man, but not on me. Vanille was my second favorite.

My favorite was Safran Troublant which is one I read about in the first place. It's exotic and warm with a hint of spice. The kind of scent that makes you want to get closer to smell it again.

Me likes.

Wow... and here I thought I had nothing to write about today. Huh. Who knew?

My Young Apprentice

As I went to sleep last night, I tried to think of my happy moment of the day.

It was buying ice cream for the many brothers and sisters of my apprentice at yesterday's festival.

This was my first festival in a couple months. After having been so successful with appointments and parties, it was weird to once again be sitting for hours, for what turned out to be a less-than-spectacular crowd.

I prolly took home less than what I would make in an hour's appointment, and that was after being there for 5 hours. Ouch.

Ahh, my young apprentice (said with an Emperor-like voice) was quite nervous when I picked her up. This was her first festival, and no matter how many times you practice for free on yourself and your family, there really is nothing like a real gig to make you feel confident. I think this was a good venue to get a start in. It wasn't huge, it wasn't too long, and it wasn't too hot or cold and it didn't rain. She did 4 of the $5 designs that day. She'd been practicing them all week, and I got to see her results on her own hands. When business really slow (which it was most of the time) she got out a drawing book and practiced $10 designs.

When we were packed up and driving out, I suggested getting ice cream, since we were hot from the sun. On the way over I realized that it wouldn't be fair for her to eat her ice cream in front of her brothers and sisters. Seriously, no parent wants to deal with the kind of begging and pleading that can result from more than 5 young minds, ranging from toddler to middle school.

And so it was, that my happy moment was getting a couple pints, cones, and napkins for everyone after a long day of "not much happenin'".

Freedom

Today I'll be at a local festival doing henna. I'm excited about that of course, although a teeny weeny part of me wishes I could be a vegetable all day instead :P I've started packing up my stuff- chairs, pillows, blankets/fabric for tables and so on. Yesterday I bought groceries for the day. I'll be having one of my henna club students help me out. I'm not sure how much henna I'll ask her to do, we'll have to see what her designs are like. I know she's really really excited.

The past few days I've had an odd thought in my mind. I like being single. Not in the "omg-I'm-gonna-date-every-guy" kind of single, but more in that I can do whatever I want, whenever. This past week has been crazy busy after school. Errands to run, work to stay after for and do, parents to conference with. Then Friday I went to bed mega-early and woke up wide awake at 3am Saturday. I've been more conscience lately that I don't have someone else to have to think about. No "I need to make dinner for soandso" or "I might wake up soandso" or "Soandso is asking to spend time with me but I have so much to do". Last night I went to an Oktoberfest fundraising event at a friends house. She has cats. I'm allergic to cats. I was there about 2 hours, and realized I'd forgotten to take my allergy medicine. I was able to leave early, come home and go to bed without having to debate in my mind whether or not my S.O. would want to leave the event also.

This kind of Freedom is nice.

Deftly Daft Hands

It starts out kind of slow, but I was gradually mesmerized by this:

Gifted

Do you ever go to something because you have to, like say, a meeting, and you think it'll be pretty standard and boring, only to find yourself staying after to talk to the speaker and coming home more energized than you previously thought possible?

No?

Well, that happened to me tonight. That gifted and talented meeting that I thought was last night was actually tonight. So I stayed afterschool again, 2 days in a row. Now, there are days when I stay just to get work done. But it's a different feeling when you have to stay for conferences, or a meeting.

So I had low expectations for this meeting of the Discovery program teacher and the parents of students she taught. Fortunately, I have to say, they grabbed my interest right away with the field trip planning. First field trip in December is to the Huntsville Space Center. And while I've been to the Kennedy Space Center more times that I can count, and while my dad has THE coolest job fixing arrays and gyros on the space shuttle, *I* have never been to the Huntsville Center. Much less with students I've taught for the past 3 years, who are now in the gifted program. Yes, I can see it now: $65 and a sub and I'm so there! With luck I can get it to count somehow as a field experience for my certification course.

After that came some routinely boring stuff about how class is done, but toward the end my attention was captured again. This teacher has taught for over 30 years. She has such an incredible passion for her kids. And it's not just about "having fun". Her purpose in the program is to shape the leaders and thinkers of tomorrow. They study stock market, editorial cartoons, space program, medicine, but most of all- the prime directive is to Discover Your Passion. Because if you get a child to come up with say, 10 things they are passionate about, or think they may want to do when they grow up, chances are they'll pursue at least one of them. And don't we all everywhere want a doctor that is passionate about what he/she does when it comes to our own health? Don't we all want a country that raises thinkers and inventors and leaders rather than people that don't go vote because they think one person won't make a difference?

The meeting ended at 6:40. I didn't end up leaving until the teacher walked me out at 8:20. 8:20 PM!!! When I'd been at school since 7am! And now, instead of being sleepy, I'm all jazzed about that passion of teaching, and teaching students that really amaze you with their thinking and creations.

Maybe someday I'll end up being a Discovery teacher. I didn't intend it when I started on this certification path. But who knows. I'm just a weirdo anyway.

Yay for Me

I went to the Y this morning. Even woke up before my 4:30 alarm went off. I love that feeling of being able to wake up knowing that I still "have time". To just lay in bed. So what if it was too frickin' early in the morning for most people?

I walked for 30 min, even did a jog or two for a minute duration each. I'm kinda proud of that. I've never ever considered myself a jogger, or a runner. The only time in my life I was a runner was when I had to, in 7th grade gym class. I remember the summer after 7th grade, at a summer camp, I actually ran from place to place. Mess hall to cabins, cabins to arts-n-crafts. My 8th grade year was fantastic. First day back at school this girl name Kelly exclaimed "you lost it!" meaning the chubby weight I'd had.

Maybe running / jogging will be a key for me to lose it for good this time.

Long Day Ahead

Today will be a long day for me. I have parent conferences this afternoon, and need to stay to observe a meeting at 5pm. I am taking a class to get certified to teach gifted and talented, and observing this meeting with parents of children in the gifted program is required.

Because I am having a longer-than normal day, I didn't go walking today. In fact, I slept in till 5:30! I'm sure to many that doesn't sound like sleeping in, but compared to yesterday's waking up at 4am, it was a little bit.

Last night I put the "winter sheet" on my bed for the first time. It's a Queen size blanket of red microfiber that feels oh so soft and warm. I snuggled down in it last night and went to bed early.

Yay for changing seasons!

To Everything There is a Season

To everything there is a season, and this morning, the first of October, I began the season of walking. Again.

I say again because it's not the first time I've "started" walking. I guess if I were honest, I'd say it won't be the last. It always makes me feel like a failure to admit I'm starting something again, because logic follows that I stopped. And when it comes to physical well-being, if I stop walking, that's like giving up on me.

At least in my head.

After watching the second episode of the new season of Biggest Loser several weeks ago, I went to - www.jillianmichaels.com - now I didn't sign up to be a member, as I've signed up to pay for websites before and doing that alone doesn't melt my fat. I did however sign up for the email newsletter. And in it this morning was this:

"You are not alone — I fell off the wagon Thursday morning — and hopped right back on — It's true you have to make short term goals, and even if you fall off the wagon you have to jump back on or nothing is going to change. Try not to worry about what you might have or have not gained from eating the past two days, just get back on track and do the best you can one day at a time . . . you are the master of your destiny." – TrishTheDish

Keep in mind, I'd already decided last night to wake up and walk at the Y. This just confirmed it. Yesterday when I was hungry, I walked - yes walked- to the local Greek Pizza place. I figured if I was gonna eat bad food, the least I could do was walk for it. And come to find out, cheese wasn't as appetizing to me as it used to be. I think now I see all that melted gooeyness as fat- like pure fat, and I don't want that going in my body. Quite a turn around in thinking, but yesterday wasn't the first time I noticed it.

I decided to wake up and walk at the Y this morning because I had a tough time falling asleep. My mind just would not shut off. My body didn't feel tired. I remembered that when I was walking at 5am every morning not only did I have more energy at work in the mornings, I also went to sleep very easily in the evenings. True, many times I went to sleep extra early, but no harm in that.

I guess I'll see how long I can maintain this as a habit. True to form, I try to be perfect and go gung ho when I decide to do something. I even grabbed the pool schedule as I left. But then I realized that I just need to get back into the groove slowly, and create a routine.

So that's what I'm going to do.

Again.

Even Super Heroes have a Support Team.

I've broken down and done what many people have recommended to me. I've begun to hire someone to clean my place. Let me just say I was scared to do this.

Firstly, when rates aren't listed on a website, there's this fear that it'll be too expensive. More importantly though, I suffered from a genetic predisposition against hiring a cleaner.

That's right. I felt like if my mom could do it, why shouldn't I be able to do it? My mom also felt the same way, her mom was a stay at home (on the farm) mom, and always did the cleaning in addition to everything else. My mom felt like she should also be able to be the same way. Nevermind that in my dad, she was marrying a packrat.

So I inherited not only my dad's tendencies to keep everything, and to know where things are by memory of where I last put them, or last had them, I'm also fighting that urge from my mom's side that says I should be able to clean up everything and show that I'm an adult.

Today I admitted I need help. I made my first contact to a professional cleaner. Price wasn't as scary as I thought it'd be. And who know.... I may find a new sense of relaxation in having a place that stays clean - even if I'm not the one cleaning it.

Even Super Heroes have a support team.

Sweet 16

I was did henna at my first teen party tonight. 20-30 teenagers, birthday girl was sweet 16.

First thing that happened was I arrived at the house to find no one there. About 5 min later a car drove up, man said I was at the wrong party house. I confirmed the address, and who he was. Turns out the party was at a different house, and the mom I'd been hired by didn't catch that on the event confirmation I sent her.

I get to the house, and I could hear the music from the street. Oh joy. They put me in a room as far from the music as possible, but it was still too loud. And then my nerves would jump every time someone came in the room, and did or did not close the door. Or bump the table. Or the time they all started jumping and dancing in the room and it made the wood floor shake. It was all I could do to not break out my teacher voice, but to keep a smile instead.

First thing I thought was, "man, I'm never doing teens again" Music too loud, too silly, too many smeared designs. But after the first half hour I realized something- it wasn't about how many I could do and how fast. They'd keep coming back for more. I think initially I'd felt this pressure that I had more teens at a party than I'd ever had before. The grad party I'd done was very tame compared to this. So I began to take more time. I also kind of chuckled inwardly at all the white kids and hard gangster rap that was being played. Ironically though, by the end of the evening, they too were complaining that the music was too loud, and the DJ didn't seem to want to fix it. They'd come back to my room just to chat.

Finally the end of my 2 hours came, just as I was running out of paste (thank heavens I didn't run out earlier- next time I'll pack an extra just in case) I'd made an announcement that it was almost ten, and this would be the last girl I'd be working on. Imagine the perplexed looked the next teen gave me as she sat down and started to point to the design, only to have me give her the remains of the tube. "I'm sorry" I said, "I'm out of paste, but you're welcome to keep it if you want a go at it." She took it, and it was amazing how fast the room cleared, allowing me to pack up in peace.

I'm tired, and my upper back feels like it's cramping. I prolly didn't pay attention and hunched over the whole time. I guess the main surprise of the night, is how quick I can be on simple designs now, as compared to a year ago.

I may think twice though before doing a party of that many young teens again.

Best laugh of the night was when a girl asked me how I got that bindi on my forehead. With a deadpan face I told her I'd pierced my forehead. Simultaneously she and 3 other girls are exclaiming things like "OMG!" and "didn't that hurt?" and "HOW?" I just laughed and said no, it's a sticker, and show the ones I'd brought for them.

heehee

False Advertising is a No-No

So the event I went to this morning was billed in the following manner:

Healthy Relationships Workshop
Don't miss this congregational event, 8:30 am - 5:00 pm in the Social Hall. _________, nationally recognized UU consultant in healthy congregational relationships, will facilitate this important workshop.

* Explore the keys to healthy relationships in your life
* Strengthen healthy dialog with your family, friends & fellow congregants
* Build a common understanding of community and covenanting at UUCA


Now from that, wouldn't you too be surprised to get there, with 94 other people only to read on the main board "Welcome to Building Healthy Congregations"??

wtf?

I mean seriously... as many times as this event was put in the bulletin and on the web, it was never titled "Building Healthy Congregations". I figured that in 8 hours, we'd see the 3 points listed above. But to get there and have the label be switched on us? Now granted, I bet 95 people wouldn't have shown up if it'd been labeled "Building Healthy Congregations- an 8 hour workshop" I came because I wanted information about building healthy relationships in my life. Particularly in my personal life. I expected the congregational to be part of it, not the focus. So I sat for an hour and listened, just to see. Sure enough, the topic of congregation was the focus. Now I understand this is all part of the master plan for us to come back as a unified whole after all the changes and challenges associated with the old minister retiring, the interim minister shaking things up, and the new minister. But really folks. Bait and switch? C'mon.... I expect better than that from my church. The speaker made a point that we were all at the right place and time for where we were supposed to be. And that if we thought we weren't at the right place, we were welcome to flit like a butterfly to find our right place. So I left after an hour.

I just regret that I didn't get to sleep in without an alarm.

Blog Early, and Blog Often

I've heard it said that one should blog everyday, whether or not you feel you have something to write about.

That's what started to today's posting, so if I ramble a bit, you'll have to forgive me.

I was in a local paper here for my henna! It's this week edition of The Dekalb Champion, so if you're in the area, go to a Kroger and read it while you can! (and to my bro, who's reading- yes, I have a hard copy to send to mom and dad) The reporter came over during a henna party last week, and it looks like he got almost all his facts right. You know he's impressed people when my henna friends on a community board say it was a great article, rather than picking it apart for inaccuracies.


Last night I went to a friend's place and she got to watch her first Bollywood movie :D It was kinda nice to geek out in a different way to share my love of their movie music and actors. And of course, we had Indian food. The only downside to this is I got to bed near midnight, and I had to be up this morning.

Soooo I set my alarm for 7am. It is a Huuuuuuuuge bummer and almost contrary to the very laws of nature to set an alarm for a day you're not required to work on. But there's a free seminar I signed up to go to today, on healthy relationships. It's supposed to be from 8:30 to 5, but I'll probably end up leaving early. I have a 2 hour henna party to do tonight for 20-30 teenagers at a Sweet 16 party. That starts at 8, and I want to be able to come home and get everything together and relax a little bit before heading back out.

Yesterday at school was interesting. After surviving a full moon the day before, Friday the kids were wired but not quite as much. It was crazy hat day, the kids all got to wear a hat and bring in a dollar. Winners in each grade level for the craziest hat got a gift card to a local ice cream vendor. Add to that the fact that a boy brought his dog for show and tell. Now, let me say it wasn't a surprise. I was ok with it, and the mom had asked to bring the dog. And she and the dog left to visit the sister's classroom- it wasn't like the dog stayed all day. Then there were the two Pakistani boys that were dressed alike- black leather jackets and pants (or faux leather, no idea which) and black T-shirts with a hindi superhero on it, named Krrish.

So that afternoon, as they're resting, I google information on Krrish, and the movie trailers look really interesting. Afterschool I actually go and buy the dvd from an Indo-Pak video store, and watch most of it at home. Now, as you may or may not know, Bollywood movies are 3 hours long, have musical numbers, and usually a love story combined with a healthy dose of unwavering love and devotion to your mother. An hour and a half into the movie, he FINALLY becomes the superhero Krrish. Because- you guessed it, they had to tell the romance story first. This is actually a second movie, the first movie was about this character's father, a mentally disabled man who received superhuman abilities/smarts from an alien, only to end up exploited by evil men. The actor, Hrithik Roshan is positively dreamy. Don't ask me how to say his first name, I don't know. I liked him better in Doom 2 though, because he smiled wayyy less than he does in these movies (he also played the dad in the first movie). I think the smiling is sposed to convey that he's pure of heart, but it makes me think his brains are addled. Maybe he climbed one to many mountains and flew through one too many trees. I haven't finished the movie yet, but I'm hoping there is more butt-kicking action to come.

Okay, time for makeup and coffee. Have a great day.

Edited to add: I finished the movie. The last 40 minutes is fantastic for butt-kicking. There's also some very comic-book like fight scenes against ninjas. Too graphic, imo for me to show at school to the kids, but I can see why the boys go ga-ga over him.

Hubris: Breakfast of Champions

So last night at the mall-school fundraiser event, there was a "R U Smarter than (a 5th grader)" game.

One of the first grade teachers threw down the gauntlet to me, so of course I joined him in the "participant crowd". That section of audience where we might be called onstage.

And of course, I was called! After having watched a woman spin the wheel and get a $25 question each time, then see her lose $250 accumulated to a geography question, and be pretty boring to watch, you can bet I was itching to get up there, show off my very big brain, and make it entertaining at the same time.

The first question I got was for a $100!! YAY. It asked which book might I find volcano information in: Weather and Climate, Ring of Fire, or something else. I knew immediately it was Ring of Fire because I'd watched Michael Palin's series of the same name. Next question was $25, and I got that right as well. Then came the question that humbled me. "What is the lowest prime number? Is it 1, 2, 3, or 5?"

I should have asked the smug-looking blond 5th grader in braids. But no, I thought I knew this. I thought I knew the rule was "A prime number is any number divisible only by itself and one" To my warped brain, somehow I thought one and one would count. So that's what I said. Turns out the answer is 2.

I was shocked, and convinced somehow there'd been an error. Amazing how messed up pride can be, isn't it?

When I got home, I immediately looked up why 1 isn't a prime number. Turns out the definition is that a prime number is any integer greater than 1 which is only divisible by itself and one.

Well, at least I could sleep well knowing I'd honestly made a mistake, rather than the game organizers.

Oh, and in my list of things I never thought I'd hear said:

Today one of the other kindergarten classes was at the hallway bathrooms. As we pass by, I hear a teacher exclaim to a boy, "Did you just lick the door?!"

I just about bust out laughing right then and there, both from the gross-out factor and from the sheer mischief in the boy's eyes. Right away it made me think of the mom at http://mom2my6pack.blogspot.com/