Good-Bye 2009

As years go 2009 wasn't such a bad year.

In March we celebrated our 25th anniversary.

I was named McIntosh Reading Council's Reading Teacher of the Year...

We went to Kentucky for Drew's Birthday

The boys all grew another year older...

...they've worked, gone to school, and continued to grow into fine young men.

I was Stark Elementary's Teacher of the Year, I turned 50 and went to see Bonnie Raitt in Concert.

MeMe lived to see another year and her cancer has stayed in remission. Dan's mom had a very success breast cancer surgery. Kate and CW have a wonderful little boy named Carter. Dan's had not one job, but two this year.

However, I hope I always remember...

Merry Christmas

For the first time in 26 years we have not celebrated Christmas yet! Drew and Nicole will be here Sunday afternoon (Dan's Birthday) and that will be great!!! We talked to Dan's parents yesterday. They were alone for the first time since 1956. We were all a little sad. Dad said next year will be that much sweeter when we are together. I think he is right.

We did let the boys open one gift last night. They both opened their new cell phones. This is Gabe's first one, so he is really excited. I am afraid that Matt is going to be sad this year...even thought we spent the same amount of money on each boy. Matt isn't going to get a WOW moment, because he got a WOW moment in November when he got his license back. (I'm praying he remembers)

Some things are the same...we are watching "The Twilight Zone" marathon and Dan is cooking breakfast. I LOVE the smell of bacon cooking.

Merry Christmas

Hope this finds everyone enjoying a peaceful time with family and friends. We are missing Dan's parents this year, but very thankful that the doctors got all of Mom's cancer. Our oldest children will be here Monday and we will do Christmas then. Tonight we are letting the other boys open one gift and then wait till their brother gets here.

We are very blessed people. We are blessed with three healthy children. We have jobs! We have each other. So all is well.

Love to all!!!

Quote

"Love is a temporary madness. It erupts like an earthquake and then subsides. And when it subsides you have to make a decision. You have to work out whether your roots have become so entwined together that it is inconceivable that you should ever part. Because this is what love is. Love is not breathlessness, it is not excitement, it is not the promulgation of promises of eternal passion. That is just being "in love" which any of us can convince ourselves we are. Love itself is what is left over when being in love has burned away, and this is both an art and a fortunate accident. Your mother and I had it, we had roots that grew towards each other underground, and when all the pretty blossom had fallen from our branches we found that we were one tree and not two."
-St. Augustine

Medication or not

That is the question! I'm not sure I have the answer. There are days that I'm sure Bonnie Raitt and James Taylor are my best meds. Other days my man evens out my nerves. Now for those days when all three elements collide...what can I say "LIFE IS GOOD". So do I need a pill to take off the edge...let me look into some organic methods first! Unitl then...sing on Bonnie.

Moody Blues

Today has been a tough day! When I finally woke up I was dreaming of my mom. Since she has been gone for 38 years it isn't something that happens. Then Dan said he bought me a Christmas present. I thought we weren't buying each other Christmas presents. Then I figured out without peaking what he bought. Then I was depressed, because if you wanted to spend money on me why wouldn't you pick something more romantic and personal. I was/am totally bummed. Call me petty, but it seems that no one in my family really knows me. I'm just the woman who cooks and cleans. There are no suprises, and I promise I have not petty.

In the midst of my gloomy mood, I stood up F and others at one of my favorite restaurants. Do I need happy pills? Something that makes me not care.

From there this day has just escalated. Dan wanted to finish Christmas shopping, then I said something that made him mad and he walked out of the store. We still aren't speaking and I don't feel like apologizing. (I always apologize) I must be getting old and cranky.

I still am on the verge of tears, but know that it will get better. I've got a physical on Monday and might need to talk to the doctor.

Under the Influence

The heading is correct. After the past two days of dealing with my back, hubby said this morning I need to snuggle in and stay on the muscle relaxers until Monday morning. Then I'm to leave my job at 3:15 and go see the chiropractor. (I love it when a man is forceful! Of course he knows I will do whatever I want to do!) I've struggled with the back since Thanksgiving and now it is into muscle spasms that take your breath...literally! So perhaps he is right. (Do not tell him I said that...)Especially since I'm right handed and any movement on my right side is now triggering the muscle spasm.

Because of the back and work issues I missed going down yesterday and giving birthday wishes to my favorite art teacher/photographer. She rocks my world and is a breath of orange goodness. I know it is hard to be up at our job, but truly she is such a thoughtful encourager to me.

Then what would I do without F. Who listened to me this week bemoan Middle son's college experience. She's listened to me huff, puff, and moan about this stupid back issue. A true friend!!!! Last night she told me not to make Dan suffer because I choose not to make time for the chiropractor. You know that didn't work. I jumped him while trying to eat supper! Good friends are hard to find.

Teaching is tough Big Dawg wants to make a self-contained EIP class. Unfortunately, I am very mothering and do not want any of my chicks taken from me. Period! However, they need to be in a small class and we keep getting new students!

Middle son has decided on a change in majors to Agriculture Communications. Who knows what he is doing with that, but his skills are more suited for that field. At the same time Youngest son has managed to not do a project due yesterday, but an extention was given till Tuesday. Do I have a direction sheet...NO!!!!!!!!!!

Oh yeah, this week I sold old gold gathering dust in a storage building and made $540. WOOHOO Christmas.

So now it is off to the recliner and flipping the remote is the extent of my day. Wish me luck!!!! The mounds of laundry usually get me going...

Christmas

We got the tree today. Then we rearranged the living room to accomodate the tree, only to discover the tree is much bigger in the house than outside in a field. So we rearranged the house again.

Then I started pulling out Christmas stuff and out fell last years Christmas card from Joice. I'm so sad that I don't go home more often. It is just so hard to leave here and so expensive! But I thought I had forever to see my friends...

Joice I. Heim - Ardmore, OK - The Daily Ardmoreite

Joice I. Heim - Ardmore, OK - The Daily Ardmoreite

Posted using ShareThis

A Week

On Tuesday Dan was involved in a wreck that totaled Matt's Jeep. Yesterday I realized how fortunate I am when I found out a dear friend of mine was killed Tuesday in a wreck similar to Dan's.

First, let me tell you about Joice. When we got married Dan worked for Joice and her husband. It wasn't long till she took me under her wing and was my best friend. We had horses in common. Many a day I sat in her kitchen drinking coffee. I loved her and she loved me, but more importantly she loved Drew. It was a wonderful time for me, and through the years we kept in contact. I think we spoke last year at Christmas.

Next, the Dan thing. Joice was in a wreck that rolled her Suburban, much like Dan's wreck. Only Joice was thrown from the car and Dan wasn't. Dan managed to miss telephone poles and trees. One lived and one died. Many times over the years I spoke to Joice about Jesus. If she ever acknowledged him I don't know. I hope she did.

I do know that the world is a little sadder place this week without my spunky hyperactive friend who could never sit down. I know that she left a wonderful daughter who was her whole life. And three grandchildren who I'm sure she spoiiled rotten. She always thought spoiling children was the way it was suppose to be. She would say, "I know Joette is spoiled, but so what, I can."

Thank you God for saving Dan and giving us more time together. Thank you for letting me have really known Joice Heim. Thank you for Rhonda inviting us to her house for Thanksgiving and for Freda.

I may have been around, but I have been blessed.

Dreams

Two Writing Teachers are back from a convention and Ruth heard Nicholas Sparks speak. In his speech he said, “I decided I’d never let another 12 year period go by in my life where I started with big dreams and ended with none.” Whew what a statement! In 2006 I started with big dreams, I was finally going to get my doctorate. Let me explain something...the classwork was the easy part. Now here I am with a dissertation that continues to go through rewrites. I tried to get a new chair, and was basically told to get over myself and move on. A lot of money has gone into this dream, but now I question is it worth it.

The daily pressures of a job that is nearing impossible makes me sad! NCLB has a huge flaw at the elementary level. Teachers must be considered "highly qualified". because of this students are being moved from class to class all day. Watching 125 5th graders moved all day long, from teacher to teacher, in a quest to meet the standard for highly qualified is just sad. Big government doesn't understand that what children at this age need is stablity. For instance, when 5th grade was self contained F's class scored 100% on the CRCT in reading, language arts, and math. To me that proves highly qualified teaching!! And it worked out okay when they went between the two of us. Things worked out well. Last year we finished with 98% passing math and around 95% passing reading. Not bad!!! Yet, according to NCLB there was a problem over who was qualified. Unfortunately, NCLB does not measuring the most important attributes of a classroom teacher. It doesn't understand that in reality "highly qualified" has nothing to do with what is on certification papers. "Highly qualified" teachers are measured by something else...caring, compassion, and committment.

So back to Nicholas Sparks quote, do I still have the desire to live a dream or has the government robbed me of all dreams. HUUUMMM...I thought it wasn't that long ago that they encouraged people to live the American Dream. Will I be able to flesh out my dream, or am I going to be left with nothing? That is the question of the year...

For today I'm going to research and write. I'm going to pray that God helps me find the voice and brain power to finish what I've started. Today I'm going to dream of a day when a dream becomes reality...I'll think of NCLB next week.

Need Something

I need to find unusual. I like different and think it has a place in life. I can't even remember when I found this picture. It has been a long time ago. I fully intended to ask my favorite artist to make these and sell them...of course to me first. However, my favorite artist is so busy with her growing business that I didn't ever get around to it. However, now that she knows about it perhaps we could plan on next year...

I love my favorite artists....MonkeyBean

Things Change

Apparently my baby boy is a big one! Yesterday, while playing football during PE it was discovered that he is so tall he can swat the ball down. This was a big deal and made him a bit of a menace yesterday to those short, skinny middle school jock types. He was stoked! Now you know I love football and would love Baby Boy to go out, but I am resigned to the fact that he is a computer geek and will probably do very well for himself in life.

Guess What

As if my life isn't exciting enough I've entered a swap. Yep, a holiday swap. I'm excited for a little change in my routine. I just hope I feel better soon.

Lennye

Needed a reminder

I used to listen to this song all the time when we lived in Colorado. Good stuff...

It's Over

One Act play has come to an end for another year. All the flurry is over and we are moving on to the holiday season. All the hub-bub has left me exhausted. I'm going to stay home from church today and rest a little...in peace.

My afternoon is full. I've got to go to Staples and organized my behavior book. That's right a behavior book. Seems that our principal believes that the children's horrible behavior is because we have allowed it. (Don't mention that we "allow it" because after 10 write ups we get a NI on our evaluation). Behavior has reached a record level of out of control. I feel that I'm more of a refree than a teacher! So last week I started recording every hour two boys behavior. There are about 4 to 5 in every class I teach that are over the top and interrupt learning.

Also, this weekend we've got to make up our minds on if Dan is going to take a new job offer. It would be a little less pay, because of no overtime pay. (You work hard in the winter and summer is an easier time). So who knows what we will do. It would help if my check would stop being cut.

Okay

The book I mentioned yesterday has really stuck with me. So many things are going on lately. Today this boy went off to the state competition at one act play.




His Dad got out of the truck to hug him bye and he stepped back with what his dad called a look that said, "Don't do that in front of people." WAIT...wasn't it yesterday that he hugged us like there was no tomorrow. What happened...all this time I've wanted him to grow up..maybe I didn't really.

Memory Lane

Read this book today while cleaning up around the house. It made me sad. The book is wonderfully written and I may even start giving it as a baby gift. However, it made me ponder how fast it all goes. In the midst of raising the boys with no help or down time; I thought it would last forever. Now I wish I had those last times all saved in a special place. Instead of last times I saw them as firsts. Your first day of school, college, and marriage.

Today one memory has stayed in my mind. When the boys were little 6 and 2, we lived in Pennsylvania. I was really out of my element! I was homeschooling Drew at the time. Anyway it started to rain and I went to sit on the porch. The boys came out and sat with me. It was a gentle late summer rain. Life was going to change again for us soon (we would move to Georgia) and I decided we should just run and play in the rain.

I wish I had thought about us playing in the rain more than once....

Saturday Prayers

Seems like lots of things are going on these days. My friend Missy's husband has had a heart transplant. You can follow this by looking here. Missy lost her first husband to cancer and now her husband John needs all our prayers. He is doing well after the transplant, but today has contracted pnumonia. Not a good thing.

Then there is Dan's Mom. On the 18th she will go in for a lumpectomy. She has breast cancer at 74. Dan will need to start making trips up there to check on both of them. Because they are going to start her radiation following the surgery; it is sketchy if they can come down or not for the holidays.

Freda's Aunt is in the hospital in Kentucky. F is there with her. She has had a couple of tumors removed from her colon. She is hanging in there and the tumors were not cancer. F will be going back and forth this month.

Then there are the prayers for our children. School issues with college.

The church is running behind budget by about $5,000 per month. Never a good sign. My check is being docked a day per month and Dan is also experiencing a flucuating pay check. More families are coming to church asking for help with food.

A dear friend feels called to the ministry. Something I've known God had planned 10 years ago. His daughter is going on the mission field for a year (with The Great Race) and needs to raise support.

Many things need our attention. Lots to pray over today.

"Four things let us ever keep in mind: God hears prayer, God heeds prayer, God answers prayer, and God delivers by prayer." E. M. Bounds

I'm Honored

Jane (a blogging friend)has a daughter Jamee who named her doll after me. How sweet is that. Go check out the post.

Hello 50!

I've wondered for many years what today would be like. What would I feel? Emotion would be a good word.

I am at an age my mother never lived to see. To me that is very humbling. Why does God choose to bless some people with life and take others at a young age? So at 50, I have to hope that I've lived a life that would honor her memory. I hope I've achieved things that would have made her proud. I'm thankful that in the last 32 years I've never had a day that the memory of her did not motivate me to be more.

At 50, we've raised 2 boys and have one more to go. I'm glad they are strong men. My heart breaks over how little time Drew wants to spend with us, but today I remembered how boys just tend to do that. I also marvel at Matt, who is still struggling to decide what he wants to be when he grows up. Then there is Gabe, who at 13 is 6 feet tall and awkward. Life will be his for the taking! So three boys is a lot to show for 50 years.

At 50, I'm still not finished with my doctorate. That was something I thought would be done. I lack focus and the mental stamina to handle 125 kids a day. Will I finish I don't know, but I'm not ready to give up yet.

At 50, I've had 25+ years with the man of my dreams. (In my dreams he had more money, but that's beside the point). He loves me for who I am, not how I look ant that says a lot these days.

At 50, I've had the career I wanted. (I should be retiring now, but refer back to 3 boys). I always wanted to teach. I still want to know why some kids can't learn and what I'm going to do about it.

At 50, I've been blessed with wonderful friends all over the United States. I'm the lucky one. They have always encouraged, helped, and believed in me. Even when I could believe anymore they were there.

At 50, I've been a Christian for 42 years. During that time I've broke the very heart of God with some of my actions, but I've found that his forgiveness is deeper than the ocean. I've also found that he never left me, even when I walked down dark paths he was there. That is something that is unfathomable.

At 50, I have very little patience for pretense. It is what it is. The good, the bad, and the ugly all have a place in life and make us stronger. Embrass them for the road is often rough.

In my next 50 years, I'm going to embrace JOY. I don't know how yet, but I'm going to find it in the little things of life. A nice breakfast with my husband. A silly prank he plays after buying me a new cell phone. In cooking for friends and family. I'm not going to worry so much about the "what should have beens", but embrace the what "ares"! I'm going to sing Bonnie Raitt at the top of my lungs and one day I'm going to get out of the car and dance on the side of the road to Elton John's "Tiny Dancer" just because!

So 50 Hello...I think I'm ready!

On the Eve of Turning 50

On this Eve of turning 50 I wanted to print something I read awhile back. I love it!

45 Life Lessons and 5 to grow on
by Regina Brett columnist for The Plain Dealer

1. Life isn't fair, but it's still good.
2. When in doubt, just take the next small step.
3. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.
4. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.
5. Pay off your credit cards every month.
6. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.
7. Cry with someone. It's more healing than crying alone.
8. It's OK to get angry with God. He can take it.
9. Save for retirement starting with your first paycheck.
10. When it comes to chocolate, resistance is futile.
11. Make peace with your past so it won't screw up the present.
12. It's OK to let your children see you cry.
13. Don't compare your life to others'. You have no idea what their journey is all about.
14. If a relationship has to be a secret, you shouldn't be in it.
15. Everything can change in the blink of an eye. But don't worry; God never blinks.
16. Life is too short for long pity parties. Get busy living, or get busy dying.
17. You can get through anything if you stay put in today.
18. A writer writes. If you want to be a writer, write.
19. It's never too late to have a happy childhood. But the second one is up to you and no one else.
20. When it comes to going after what you love in life, don't take no for an answer.
21. Burn the candles, use the nice sheets, wear the fancy lingerie. Don't save it for a special occasion. Today is special.
22. Overprepare, then go with the flow.
23. Be eccentric now. Don't wait for old age to wear purple.
24. The most important sex organ is the brain.
25. No one is in charge of your happiness except you.
26. Frame every so-called disaster with these words: "In five years, will this matter?"
27. Always choose life.
28. Forgive everyone everything.
29. What other people think of you is none of your business.
30. Time heals almost everything. Give time time.
31. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.
32. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends will. Stay in touch.
33. Believe in miracles.
34. God loves you because of who God is, not because of anything you did or didn't do.
35. Whatever doesn't kill you really does make you stronger.
36. Growing old beats the alternative - dying young.
37. Your children get only one childhood. Make it memorable.
38. Read the Psalms. They cover every human emotion.
39. Get outside every day. Miracles are waiting everywhere.
40. If we all threw our problems in a pile and saw everyone else's, we'd grab ours back.
41. Don't audit life. Show up and make the most of it now.
42. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.
43. All that truly matters in the end is that you loved.
44. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.
45. The best is yet to come.
46. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.
47. Take a deep breath. It calms the mind.
48. If you don't ask, you don't get.
49. Yield.
50. Life isn't tied with a bow, but it's still a gift.

I'm Outta Here

I'm on my way to spend an evening in music heaven. Yes I'm singing every song! (Cause I know them all!) I promise not to give anybody "Something to Talk About."

More later

WWWAAAAAAAA!

I'm whining! I'm not a happy camper. For months I've planned on me and the hubby taking a trip to see Bonnie Raitt in concert. Only to find out that no one will switch days off with him, and that if he takes the day off the boss is going to write him up. WHATTTTTTT. Do these people not know that I'm fixing to be 50 and that is to me a High Holy Day?

I've never made a big deal out of my birthday...ever!!! I've never minded that in 25 years the man has been broke EVERY October. But this is unbelievable.

Freda is thinking of going, but we've got to get her off work on a Friday with me. Then there's this thing about staying in a motel room...(that's another story). What if Freda can't over come her fear of motels....

Youngest Son

The youngest son needs to have this book read by Friday.

and wouldn't you know it for some reason he is rebeling against this! I love this book. I wish I could read it with my 5th graders. So why is he being so obstinate!!!???

Time Flies

Gratefulness is the key to a happy life that we hold in our hands, because if we are not grateful, then no matter how much we have we will not be happy -- because we will always want to have something else or something more. - Brother David steindl-Rast

Time has flown since my last post. I guess I've been busy living! School started in August and I've got a class that needs lots of attention. The paperwork involved when you have a majority of your class that struggles makes it tough. Next week I will start tutoring after school in hopes of helping.

Then in September Matt turned 20. (I would post a picture of Matt, but it won't let me!). I can't even remember what else happened in September, but it sure came and went fast.

Now we are in October. Already, I've had the flu. Ended up running a fever of over 100 for 4 days (I don't do fever). During the same week I had to get out 125 report cards and managed to do 21 out of 24 parent conferences. It was a busy week. On Saturday Nanci's oldest son got married. They had a sweet wedding at Indian Springs. Freda and I were there. Freda's son was in the wedding party. Tomorrow we are going over to Nanci's house to have lunch and watch a movie. And no one is talking about school! (I doubt that!)

This coming week we go back to school on Wednesday, then on Friday Dan and I are going to see Bonnie Raitt in concert. I can't wait!!!!!

Oh yeah, and I've written on the dissertation. Perhaps soon I can get a go ahead.

Happiness

We all live with the objective of being happy; our lives are all different and yet the same. - Anne Frank

I've always believed that happiness is a choice. It doesn't seem like a difficult thing, but it takes a lot to be happy. Perhaps contenment is a better word, I just don't know. I'm sure with contenment comes happiness.

Anyway, we have 6 teachers pregnant at work this year and one getting married (or maybe 2). So as folks start planning showers, the Grumpy Guses just start appearing. I know it is hard to be giving to someone you don't see. Or someone who's only worked with you for a few weeks. These are tough economic times, but what is wrong with just being happy?

So today I loaded up, leaving piles of papers on my desk and at various places around my room, went to get Gabe, went to two banks, and then to WalMart to buy a baby gift for tomorrow. And you know what...I'm glad I did.

I was excited everytime I had a baby and thankful. I was thrilled when we got married and wanted others to be as well. These are blessed events. People should be happy for others and share in their happiness.

Yes, we will survive a month of five birthdays, two baby showers, one wedding shower, and Dan working a new schedule. We'll make a way to get car tags and hire a math tutor for pre-calculus. I just pray I'm smiling and praising God the whole way.

Oh yeah...and I need to get my Bonnie Raitt tickets...

Deacon Nominations

Dan has been an ordained deacon for 20+ years. He hasn't been in active service all that time, but he is ordained. Seems God has plans for Dan to be active again. We initially said "NO". The man is working 12 hours a day 6 days a week and is only off every other Sunday. Also there is talk of new hours, so it didn't seem like the best time. But the leaders at church insisted and Dan felt that God was speaking to him. Anyway with this position, even though he is ordained already, there is a questionaire. Dear me! So I thought I'd put together Dan's answers to the questionaire in song. Wonder what the preacher would think.



Dan used to tell me to play this at his funneral and I probably will. He used to say it explained how salvation was to him.

I would follow up Dan's testimony with this piece by Rich Mullins.



Now seriously doesn't that say it all! But what would I pick for Dan to end his questionaire with...Well...



There now Dan has a musical video questionaire. I like it!!!

Happy Birthday Gabe

Today my baby is a teenager. My how time flies. His brothers are grown men now, then they were just 11 and 7. I'm glad God knew in His infinite wisdom that we needed Gabe to keep us going in our old age! I wouldn't know what to do without him.

Growing Old

“I will never give in to old age until I become old. And I’m not old yet.” Tina Turner

The way I figured it Tina Turner is 70! PLEASE...I wish I looked that good at 49 and 3/4.

Bewildered

I've decided to give the word overwhelmed a rest...so how about I'm totally bewildered. I'm sorry, but this A day Bday schedule is killing me. I don't know the kids. Then you add how low my homeroom is and I'm overwhelmed. I've already seen some of the worse behaved children I've ever seen. I'm not talking emotional problems, I'm talking flat out rude. Then add to that the absolute babies, it isn't they don't care, they just can't so much as find the notebook.

Then you get to come home to mounds of laundry, floors that need cleaning, lessons that need to be planned and researched. Save me!!!!!!!!!!

I know this will get better but for now the job at hand is massive. I know everyone thinks their own personal job is the hardest in the school, but when you've got 130 boys and girls depending on you to make sure that they are going to pass the CRCT it is...OVERWHELMING. Add to that the fact that your administrators are counting on you to save AYP and now openly say it!!!!!!!!!!! Talk about a pressure filled situation!

Quiet

Dan got back from Tifton about 6:30. He immediately mowed a little and now appears to be a bit depressed. I knew it was going to be hard for him to let Matt go.

It was easier with Drew because he was our first born. It felt like we were giving him the very best opportunity in life by sending him to Berry. I never got to live at college and kinda wanted the experience. So to me Drew was getting to do what I didn't. But Matt...well he is the life of the party where ever he goes! Whether it is here or Tifton or a horse show. Matt knows how to draw a crowd. However, Matt we also worry about.

It will be easier to get Gabe back on a schedule now that no one is staying up all night. So I know Gabe is sad to see him go. Matt cleaned his room up extremely nice and cleaned Gabe's room. Gabe needs to heed the example.

So it is back to us three for awhile...

Another Year Begins!

August in the South is all about new beginnings. Schools start, older kids go back to college, and it is football time again.

I've beenn working since the 3rd. I'm teaching what they call an EIP class. This is the lowest of the low (that do not have an IEP). It's a tough group, but as I watched them this week my heart broke. They struggled...I saw 10 and 11 year olds who have been beaten down by years of failure. How in the world can you be beaten down by failure at 10 and 11 years of age. For the most part they are immature. They struggle to be quiet or sit in a seat. I do have an extra teacher every afternoon and this week we have worked to sit benchmarks. May God bless this little group of kids.

Also, Matt goes back to college. I know he is ready. This summer with us working like we have has been like prison for him with no license. I hope that he concentrates on his grades for this semester. Also, because he can't drive to a job, his spending is slashed to the bone.

I'm thankful that God gave Dan a job! These are hard times and we couldn't do the best for our own kids without Dan having a job to support their major needs.

In a few days Gabe will be 13. Yesterday he said he was moving into "older boyhood". I said no you'll be a teenager. Hard words for a momma to say!!!

Life is full at our house. Still revising Chapter 1 and working on Chapter 2. Let's hope by October I can have the first 3 ready for approval.

Meanderings

"A trip to nostalia now and then is good for the spirit."
(By: Dan Bartolovic)

Somehow yesterday turned into a cooking adventure down memory lane! It all started with the Zucchini Cake.



Matt planted some yellow squash and zuchinni plants. So we are starting to harvest. I'm not a huge zucchini fan, but remembered making zucchini cake with my Grandmother one day. My Grandmother was the best cook in the world! Especially when it came to cakes and pies. So my thoughts were on her and our many days in the kitchen cooking. Oh she would scold me for not making exact measurements and not sifting flour. The boys kept coming through going YUCK!



I had some leftover corn from Sunday night. When we were in Colorado there was an older couple that had us over for supper. We did that ALL the time in Colorado. I've never known what made it so different there, but everyone was always having people over. Anyway she fixed Fried Corn. Love it! It is corn cooked in bacon grease gravy, and then you crumble up the bacon! YUMMO!!!



Then there was the rest of the squash. Linda Lou (step mom) was the first in my life to piece by piece fry squash. There is nothing like it! As I was cooking it I wondered if after she is gone I'd ever be able to cook squash again.



No wonder these boys look like this.

This Is My Life!

Dirty house, dissertation, squirting blood, furloughs with no pay, trip to Kentucky, no trip to Oklahoma and good friends. And you know what it is okay!!

I did clean the floors this morning; however, not so much on the garage yet! I've got to spruce up my research questions. I'm setting a goal of the end of August to finish Chapters 1 and 2, and have them with an editor.

The squirting blood is a little tougher! I can't get a pedicure, because I'm afraid that my leg might begin to squirt blood, it has something to do with being rubbed the wrong way literally!

Furloughs without pay are tougher. Matt lost all his scholarships and because of no car he can't get a job. Sooooooo! We've got to come up with all the money he needs apparently student loans thinks parents are able to come up with 1/2 of the expense. Also, Gabe has tuition due!

Trips...it was great to go to Kentucky and see Drew and Nicole. Drew called yesterday and had been offered a house to live in free of rent across from his work in exchange for some extra farm work. WOOHOO! Not going to Oklahoma bums me out. I want to go! I need to go! We'll see!

However, life is good when you have friends. Freda, Monkey, Nanci, and Oklahoma Brenda keep me grounded and laughing! Of course I've always thought I was married to the funniest man I've ever known. (Several of you just went what, but it is true. Drew called to see if we had gotten home from Kentucky and we were all laughing so hard we couldn't hardly talk! Drew mentioned that it was not a good idea to laugh like that when I was driving. Where would we be without grown children to take care of us.

Overwhelmed!!!

How can someone with basically 7 weeks off in the summer be stressed. Well you work 3of those weeks and your down to 4 weeks. About one and a half of those weeks are eaten before you start to feel like a human being again. Then before you know it you are down to 1 1/2 weeks. Which feeling the need to go to Oklahoma makes you think crazy thoughts...like "oh let me drive 900 miles, during the hottest time of the year." Now if you don't do this you are consumed with guilt! Oh wait!!!! I'm already carrying a buttload of guilt over not having my doctorate done...not having the garage cleaned out...not being a better planner with money...the list goes on....

So what will I do. This week I've got today to run errands. Tomorrow I've got to take Matt to Tifton. We won't be back till late. Thursday I've got to go to a state reading leadership conference. I come home on Saturday, wash clothes and go to Atlanta for a week. Wash clothes then go see Drew on his birthday.

I'm feeling the stress...and the guilt...and it is only July 7th...but August 3rd is a comin'.

Let Freedom Ring!!!

Remember how I want to find joy in my life. Well here are three reasons for joy! (I took picture my FR's facebook.) Each one of my guys are unique and fascinating in their own right! However, I know they are content to do nothing! Yet, they humor me and go to the fireworks every year. Not everyone can say that about their spouses and children. These guys work hard and sitting in the easy chair is their reward. Yesterday, they asked what were they suppose to eat and I said we were eating snacky foods at the fireworks...no one complained. They just trudge along; however I am going to have to get a new Bonnie Raitt CD! They know this one by heart and think that is a bit weird when guys can sing all the Bonnie Raitt tunes!!!!!!!!!!

I heart this bunch.

Greetings from the Hot Side!!!!!!!!

I do not understand these hot moments anymore. Used to be when you were hot, that was a very seductive type thing...this is not that type of hot. This is hot where it starts at your feet and moves to your head. At your head it appears that someone has opened a faucet, you could wring water out of your hair. This is not fun. Tonight it started as I was fixing supper...chicken pot pie. I should of skipped supper, except I feel that I must feed poor Dan.

Dan is working 12 hours a day, 6 days a week and this weekend will be off Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday. Whoooohooo!!! I'd like to go somewhere, but there's that teaching Sunday School thing!!

On the 9th I will leave for 8 days of meetings, come home to go to Drew's for his birthday, come home two days, and then off to Oklahoma. It will be crazy busy!!!!! I'll be back in time for school to start back!!!!!Whooohooo!

Well let the fun begin!!!!!!!!!!!!

Took a Break

Finally this afternoon I took a break from trying to look through obituaries in Oklahoma. It was late afternoon when I finally heard from Brenda and I was on the way to the library and grocery store, so there was no time to send flowers. My thoughts and prayers will be with the family tomorrow. Brenda said Janet's mom died about two months ago.

I took the boys to the library and it is such a treat. I love the new library it is so clean and new. Gabe has two more huge books to read. He reads out of the adult section! I even took in some books for them to sell and raise money to buy more books! Love my library!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Then to grocery shop where everyone, in every aisle, asks how are you doin'. It is too cool!!! I love my grocery store.

This was followed up by a trip by dairy queen for a small ice cream. Love dairy queen, however, Matt says that we have new owners. What??????? I will investigate this further.

Going to bed now and watching "In the Heat of the Night" the original one. Although I prefer the one filmed in Covington. Wonder if they will ever release "I'll Fly Away" that was filmed in Madison?

Dark Mood

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This video is for Janet Lyn. We were so young and the life was so full for us. I remember well going up and down dirt roads in Mansfield with you. Of course your brother took me to the freshman prom. Whatever happen to him? I'm sorry life was short. I hope you had a great ride!!! I can't even remember if we talked much when I went home last time. We should of talked more.

As you can see my mood is a bit dark today. I haven't heard back from Brenda on what Janet's last name was now. So I can't send flowers. I've checked the OKC obits and Ardmore obits and haven't found anything. So when I leave in a minute I'll call Brenda.

On a lighter note. I've spent the last 25 years of my life without family. A couple of weeks ago a second cousin got in touch with me. Today she emailed and told me all about her sisters. They have all moved back to Ardmore. I'm excited and confused at the same time. How do you go through 1/2 of your life with no family and then suddenly the three cousins I adored as a small child find you!!! I will be making plans to spend some time with them as well when I make the Oklahoma trip.

Looks like there will be no rest for me before school starts back, but that's okay. Bonnie Raitt in October will keep me going for awhile!

Death

Today, I learned that a childhood friend has passed away. Janet Carter was one of my running buddies for several years. Her brother took me to the freshman prom, we really did run out of gas on the way home. It was before cell phones and I was panicy. I wish I could find my pictures and post one of us. I checked airfare, but I can't afford it 5 days before payday.

Word is she had just settled a million dollar lawsuit against UPS over a workman comp situation. She was in pain and mixed alcohol with some pain killers. Her boys are older than mine. Janet had a rough life I guess, but we all did. None of us were rich.

Also, today Michael Jackson and Farrah Fawcitt passed away, icons of our glory years the '70's.

Emily Dickinson wrote:

Because I could not stop for Death --
He kindly stopped for me --
The Carriage held but just Ourselves --
And Immortality.

We slowly drove -- He knew no haste
And I had put away
My labor and my leisure too,
For His Civility?

We passed the School, where Children strove
At Recess -- in the Ring --
We passed the Fields of Gazing Grain --
We passed the Setting Sun --

Or rather -- He passed Us --
The Dews drew quivering and chill --
For only Gossamer, my Gown --
My Tippet -- only Tulle --

We paused before a House that seemed
A Swelling of the Ground --
The Roof was scarcely visible --
The Cornice -- in the Ground --

Since then -- 'tis Centuries -- and yet
Feels shorter than the Day
I first surmised the Horses' Heads
Were toward Eternity --

I do not know Janet, Michael, or Farrah's spiritual condition. I pray that they were saved and at peace with God our Father.

Diets and Trips

Okay, Matt has to be closely supervised and he is not happy at the moment. I know it is hard, but he cannot late night snack at school. So we are plugging along.

As far as the trip goes, I'm still torn. I want to go, but it will probably be the ed of July now. I have to wait till the 1st to get paid, then I have 9 days of meetings starting the 8th. So I don't want to come home and be exahusted. Plus my brother and dad are going camping the first of July in Colorado. Wonder why they never ask me?

Lots to do in the next couple of weeks. I'm looking forward to the 1st and my hair appointment. I think I settled on a cut.

The Highway is my Home

I spent a funfilled afternoon in the ABAC library reading Vygotsky. Librarian couldn't believe I wanted the book, then asked if I'd like to take it home! I said sure. I'll bring it back on my next trip.

Got another snarky comment from chair today. I don't know maybe she is just not a people person.

So to calm my nerves some Pure Pararie League. Saw them in concert in Norman in 1978 or 1979. (when Vince Gill was the lead singer) I love 'em!!!!!!!!!!!!

Can it be the Dog Days?

I don't think that after 4 days of not working this can qualify for the dog days of summer, but it seems close! It is too hot to breathe!!! I'm trying to accomplish task everyday and deal with the children. I know you want believe this, but for my entire time of motherhood Dan has always taken Matt and Drew with him to work. Now Matt is with me. Bored. Sleeps till noon, stays up till 3 in the morning. Then every now and then him and Gabe try to throw each other around. Dan is gone a good 14 hours a day. He leaves at 5:45am, works 12 hours, and then gets home by 8:00pm. Of course all he wants to do is sleep.

Then there is the thought of going to Oklahoma. I need to go, but it is a $600 trip at least to drive out there. Eight hundred if we do anything! Yuck! So yesterday I thought I could fly MeMe out here and we could do lots of fun things!! Like go to the ocean. Go eat at the Blue Willow. Go to Dairy Queen for lunch. Oh wait...we are on a diet. Also, we need to go see Drew in Kentucky. Another chunck of change. However, I want to spend my summer school money on a new tv and me!!!!!!!!!!! Oh, I am so selfish!!!!

I've got so much to do and I've still got a week to work in July.

It's On!!!

Well me and the big guy (matt) are now on a diet. I figure I owe it to him to toughen up. I took the real age challenge and the results weren't to bad instead of nearly being 50 I'm more like 62. Also, I've learned that in some people stress causes chronic back pain. Who knew????

Anyway, for this week (until I get paid) we are going to do weight watchers. Then after payday. I'm following the Dr. Oz menu plan for two weeks. (The site also plans out your excercise routine.) I'm excited. Today I was telling the boys that we could still have desserts we were just going to learn to like different things (Like cinnomon apples and frozen yogurt).

This will not be easy, it is extremely difficult living with a man who can eat anything and stay thin. But in the long run it will be worth it.

Happy Father's Day!

Happy Father's Day to the best Dad I know. I am an expert on you and your parenting skills. How you would get up with the boys when they were babies and change them. How you potty trained everyone of them. How as soon as they could walk you would take them with you (except Gabe and that was probably me). How you would take Drew to Carman concerts. You'd take Matt camping. And your trips with Gabe to the mega Leggo store.

You've worked hard while they were growing up and you work hard now. So you've always shown them the value of hard work. I'm not sure how that has transferred to them at this point, but I know they all make good employees.

You've been a Christlike example for them and that was probably the biggest accomplishment that you've experienced. You've talked with each of them when they were ready to accept Jesus as their savior and that was huge.

You've shown them that marriage is a commitment. Now you are showing them that sometimes God changes the whole course of your life and it is okay.

So honey, Happy Father's Day. Your greatest accomplishments in life are the ones you've invested your life in!

Tags...

I don't really understand the whole tag thing in blogland. Mainly because no one tags me! However, I do read other people tags and noticed this one:
1. Go to your 6th photo folder
2. Pick the 6th picture in folder
3. Tell the story.

So here goes.

The above pic was taken at Drew's wedding. Has it nearly been 2 years? Hard to believe how time flies. Drew seems so confident, Matt seems like the supportive little brother, Alex is the faithful best friend, and Jacob is the soon to be brother in law. It was a fun day!

My how things change. In a few months Drew will be the best man at Alex's wedding. Matt is now bald and about 6'5". Jacob was engaged and is now single again.

School's Out

IT'S OFFICIAL SUMMER HAS STARTED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Memoir Monday

Last night I dreamed of our neighbors when I was growing up in Oklahoma. Where I grew up everyone knew everyone. The Housleys had a boy, David and a girl, Bobbie. Bobbie was closest to my age. There were lots of times growing up when we would be at one house or the other. I haven't thought about them in years, but in my dreams last night I remembered every feature of their house. The kitchen, the shape of the living room, the bathroom, and bedrooms. I even remembered the storage shed. It was very strange for a moment I was back home and things were the way they used to be.

I'm sure this trip down memory lane was brought on by thoughts of a trip home this summer. However, I won't drive past where I used to live...to many memories. I'll go see my best friend from high school, Brenda. I'll stay with my step-mom and her new husband, and my half brother and his family will come down. I'll meet my nephew for the first time. I'll drive by and see my daddy. And I'll be going by the cemetary to take flowers for my mom and grandma's graves.

We had lots of great neighbors when I grew up: the Youngs, the Summers, the Shockleys, and the Houselys. The Shockleys are both dead now, so are the older Summers, and the Youngs.

I don't know what the Houselys are doing, I hope they are all okay.

Sunday Afternoon

First of all Dan had to work today, so I had to teach Sunday School. We got up at 5:00am to get Dan off and give me time to go over lesson. Then I tried to get children up out of bed. Now the one that is almost 20 (in Sept) did not move, the youngest had no choice. I had told everyone to go to bed at 10:30 last night. Apparently there was a party across the street and it kept them up all night. Get through Sunday School, go into church, and Gabe can't keep his eyes open. I'm like ready to strangle him!!!!!! Then I'm afraid he is going to fall out in the floor. At the invitation prayer we left. (He's been awake all afternoon.)

Come home, I tell them to eat leftovers and then Matt has a friend come pick him up!!!! Not real happy but suddenly Gabe and I are alone in the house. Boy was it quiet!

My mind has raced all afternoon. I can't make any phone calls till tomorrow and then only after 2:00pm. I don't know what to do. I feel overwhelmed by this and at peace at the same time. Go figure!!!

Trusting God

I do not think it is a coincident that Dan's SS class starts to study Trusting God and suddenly the Hestad's undergo roadblocks. I'm thinking it is a devine intervention. In Ch. 2 and 3 the main point is "God is in control. He has a purpose and a plan for you, and He has the power to carry out that plan."

Now since the decision was made to start this study. Matt has lost his license for 6 months. He lost ALL of his scholarships because of a "D" in history. He is taking 2 online classes at the tune of $1,100. He has to take defensive driving classes, which I will have to drive him to take. He found out he couldn't get a Stafford loan. Then today...I found out I couldn't get my loan to finish up my dissertation.

Oh there will be phone calls on Monday, but what if God has other plans... Elizabeth Elliot once told of losing her life's work interpreting the Bible into the language of the Acua Indians. How could it have been God's will? But she never doubted. So I shall not doubt but trust that whatever God is doing is the best plan for us.

OMG!!!!!!!!!!!

I can't believe how udderly horrible the picture in the paper is!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! The hairs got to get a new do and the weight has got to go!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Even if it takes drastic measures.

Needing a New Do

It appears that my taste is leaning in the same direction. I know what I'd like it to look like, but can't find an exact picture. Problem 1...I don't want to fix it any more. I'm tired of hair! So which do you like?

Hairstyle 1

Faith (In my mind I'd like to look like Faith, but it wouldn't be good for a teacher to act that way)


Reba

Martina

Perhaps, I just want hair in my eyes. However, one thing I know I'm sick of this look!!! Perhaps if I had hot rollers, because a curling iron doesn't cut it.

Afternoon

I've spent the afternoon trying to get the boys ready for their trips. Gabe leaves for some serious White Water Rafting tomorrow. Matt is going to ABAC to check in with an online class. This all means Dan and I will be alone tomorrow night! However, he is working 12 hour days, so not much will be going on around here.

Facebook

I don't get facebook!!! There I've said it. I get blogs...I like blogs...I tell my friends and family about my blog...but everyone is into facebook. I really don't get it! It is all so criptic. So I think I'll blog.

Ramblings

Summer School was a little rougher this morning. Seems the honeymoon is over! One of them looked at me and said, "I'm ready to go to Mrs. C. I didn't come here to work." I replied, "That is exactly why you are here! For the last 180 days you chose not to work, now you have 5 left to get it right." Every child I'm seeing is more than capable of passing the test. Attitude plays a big part in this problem..

My summer is going south quick. Seems Matt has two online classes, except one of those classes requires 4 on campus classes. Wasn't a big deal till he lost his license. I'm just bucking up and moving forward. It must be extremely difficult to have your license taken away at 19. I remember when my mom was sick, I needed to get her medical help right away. I called the doctor, he said for me to get in the car and drive her to town (10 miles). I said, "What if I get stopped?" He said for me to tell the cop to get me to the doctor NOW! After that he thought the state should give me a hardship license. They didn't, and we made it.

I miss MeMe. Saturday she didn't sound good. The experimental drug is making her sicker. I know that one day this cancer will take her from me, but I'm not ready. I need more time. I need to be closer. I need to be able to cook and help her do things.This weekend I've wondered if we should have moved back to Oklahoma. I know it is probably just the sadness talking.

I'm trying to get Gabe ready for his trip. I've got to get Gabe off at 1:00, then take Matt to Tifton to class. What!!!!!!!!!!!!

The fall wedding season is shaping up this year, August 1, October 10, and October 24 are all must go to weddings. I was opting out of the October 24th one since it is my 50th birthday...that was until today. Drew's best friend Alex is marrying some girl whose Daddy is very rich. They are getting married at Lake Lanier. So today in a huge 8x11 envelope came the wedding planning weekend. Where to stay...prices...activity choices...something about spa treatments. I'm thinking I need to go to that one and be pampered. However, Dan needs to work hard, because I'm not giving up Bonnie Raitt at Mrytle Beach.

So there you go! Lots of happenings! Oh yes and when am I finishing Chapter 2?

Sunday

I woke up this morning with a migraine. Still not feeling up to par. I had one Excederin Migraine which has numbed it a bit...Dan is bringing more after church. I need to be reading dissertations and getting started on Chapter 2. I'm going to set me up a work schedule. July is looking busy with the Reading Conference, CRCT Item Review, and a trip to Oklahoma. Linda sounded bad yesterday, they were working cattle and she was trying to watch Carter and cook. I should have gone out there, but need the Summer school money to make the trip.

Yesterday I heard of a horse trainer whose biggest client (6 horses) pulled them all. I'm sure glad I'm not worrying about that kinda of stuff now. But I asked Dan if he missed it and he does. Not the business end, but the riding end. We are trying to save money to get the fence up and some bulldozer work done. Dan said that he can wait. We desperately need a fence so the dogs could work sheep at least.

Back to dissertation, I really want to change it to a case study, but perhaps I need to stay focused and move forward. I've wasted a lot of money if I don't finish this. I wish I had just gone to LMU and gotten an Ed.S. Teaching 5th grade is too hard these days and leaves no time for anything. I am exhausted at the end of the day! I know....stop complaining...I love teaching 5th grade and the challenge...I don't love this hanging over my head...and an administrator that makes it nearly impossible for me!

Got To Love My Man

I love Dan! Today, he took the boys out for an airing. He went ahead and got Gabe the shoes, bathing suit, etc. he needs for his white water rafting trip this weekend. I love that man. Plus he bought a brisket. I'm feeling it! And I know he wanted to lay in the recliner. After working 13 days straight at 12 hours per day. I KNOW going out with the boys wasn't on his plan.

Now mind you a couple of things are too small, but that doesn't matter in the least. And Gabe talked him out of getting a hair cut. What matters is he did it for me! I had 6 hours at my house alone!!!!!!!! Even if mopping and laundry were involved, I was alone!!!!!!!!!!

Lovin' him!!!!!!!!!!

Lipstick Ranch

Okay, so the name attracted me to the site. However, KC Willis is having a $300 shopping spree. Her art is eclectic like me!!!!!!!!

Guess What?

I unhooked myself from the new horse show. YEAH! Making room for that dissertation thing!

Today I got a criptic message from my advisor today, seems that the academic advisor sent her a message about me going through the proper lines of communication. I was shocked. Couldn't figure it out! About (get this) a year ago I contacted my academic advisor and the Dean of Ed.D asking for a new advisor. A YEAR AGO PEOPLE!!!!!!!!!!! You know it was more than I could take not to send back a snippy email.




I'm going to plan out my summer and move on!!!!!!!!!!

Wouldn't you know it!

My hair looks like crap. This has been going on for months. I don't know if it is thyroid related or menopause related, but I've had about all I can take! So wouldn't you know it today the newspaper came to take the picture for my teacher of the year interview. Dear me!

Summer school wasn't bad. I know I'll love the money. However, someone has roped me into doing another horse show. Fast talking cowboys get me in trouble every time!!! Dan was sitting there in his sleep going, "NO, NO." It just makes me tired. I don't want to think of anything else.

What Was I Thinking!

I'm off to teach the first day of summer school. Remember the last post where I discussed my money-grubbin' ways, well again that would be why I'm in this shape. However, I think at my pay scale I'm going to be close to $200 per day. Not bad.

Yet, that doggone DISSERTATION awaits my magic. Our school is not condusive for research, the top dogs change things too much. A dissertation is a research project that has to be set up as much as a year before the actual research! Help me!!!!!

I have had a facebook page since Drew went to college and now all of a sudden it has taken off. Of course I can't keep up a blogspot and a facebook page, but I've found a lot of folks. For instance Simon the Rabbi from up north. A doctoral sounding board. My New York friend Jasmine, hasn't been writing lately.

Yesterday one of my cousins contacted me. We haven't seen each other in over 20 years. I was so excited! She's one of the closest to my age and we used to have a good time together. I've missed being able to share with her over the years. So that was a real happy surprise.

Monkey, Bean, F, and Nanci went in together a bought me a huge canvas of this pic to celebrate me being TOTY.

LOVE IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!! And can't wait to add to it. I'm sure some summer school money is going to this company.

Weekend fun!

Let me start this post by saying it doesn't pay to be consumed with money! Money makes you tired!

See three weeks ago, I made Dan take a judging job in Florida. Well that was all well and good, till he's worked 12 hours a day for the last week. I felt sorry for him having to drive and be so tired. And since the 19 year old couldn't drive him...I did. We left Friday night at 7:00 and got to Lady Lake about 1:45am. Fell into bed and Dan had to get up at 6:30 to go judge the horse show. I told him to leave me in the room to sleep and we could just pay an extra night. But we couldn't stay the night because Dan had to work today. So we left Florida about 7:00 last night and got back home at 1:45am. I ended up sleeping in the bed till 9:00, then got up and slept in the chair till 11:00am. Ate a little breakfast, finished up the TOTY paper and now I'm fixing to bath, get groceries, and go to a youth meeting. No phones are working. I'm not sure what's wrong with my cell, but the house phone was left off the hook all weekend.

Tomorrow is the TOTY interview and it will be fine, even if I STILL don't like my hair!!!!!!!!!!!!

PS Dan and I have spent many years doing what we did this weekend, we've never seen much or just got to have fun. I hope this all changes in the future.

On the bright side Dan has now made in 1 week what he usually makes in a month.

Guess What?

One more day of school! Now that is cause to celebrate!!!! We had the "Movin' On" Ceremony today, report cards are done. I intend to enjoy tomorrow.

Check out Pioneer Woman on her trip to New York to make more money! Life is so funny that way. If you have money, it seems you can make more easier than the rest of us.

On the other hand D and I are crazy. A couple of weeks ago he got asked to judge a horse show in Florida. No biggie...$500 pay check...go for it. Then this week he has worked 12 hour days, every day, leaves the house at 5:45 and gets back at 8:00. Plus it is hotter than hades in the plant right now and humid. Then there is me...the crazy one...who has the TOTY paper to finish, chapter 2 that has to be done this summer...and I decided to teach summer school, because we need the money.

Now the biggie this weekend will be...am I working tomorrow and then driving Dan to Florida at 9:00pm so he can sleep on the way...or is he taking Matt. You remember him...my 19 year old son who lost his license from speeding through Alabama...and now I feel sorry for and have to air him out regularly. Oh and let's not forget Gabe who is stuck in the house as well now...while I work and D works unreal hours.

How come the one person who would like to be stuck in the house alone for days (me) never gets to do it?

TOY Questionaire

Okay right after they tell you that you are teacher of the year and you get you $50. Then you are told that you have one week to answer a questionaire with six questions. Now this seems simple, but I've been writing all day!

Question 1: What were the factors that influenced you to become a teacher? Now how do you answer that. I'm now on the third rewrite. I was the product of a teen marriage. Raised by my grandmother and by age 14 I was taking care of a sick mother. Folks I learned a lot. I learned complaining doesn't change things. I learned that sometimes there are jobs you don't want to do, but you are the only one who can do it. I learned that when life throws lemons at you, make lemonade. I learned something about being a teacher from every teacher I ever had. Whether it was something to do or not to do. I learned that sometimes a teacher is there to help you make major life adjustments. (I don't think I'm doing good on answering question 1).

Question 6 also has me stumped: Describe your personal beliefs about teaching, including your own ideas of what makes you an outstanding teacher. I believe that if you think you are an outstanding teacher you probably aren't!

I believe I'll cook supper and look at this again tomorrow night.

Friday Night

Last night the Hestads and the Reeses went out! Reservations and a mini road trip were involved. We cleaned up after a long field day. F could still walk at this time, after her tumble during the tug of war. We were still in a good mood after F had to defuse an irrate parent, with no help from those in charge. So we headed north.

We went to the Blue Willow Inn in Social Circle to celebrate the outgoing and incoming teacher of the year. It was fun! We sat in the sunroom, which is by far my favorite spot in the restaurant. The Blue Willow is all you can eat Southern Buffet type food. Weekends are seafood night. My personal favorite is the peel and eat shrimp, the crab salad, twice baked potatoes, the fried green tomatoes and the peanut butter pie. So I that was were I stayed. F. pretty much ate the same things I did (I was shocked she didn't tackle the salmon). Ricky enjoyed the catfish and Dan seemed to enjoy everything he tasted. To me the place is a bit pricey, the buffet is $26.95 a piece on weekends. However the food is good, the atmosphere is fantastic, and the drive is a beautiful one. We had a grand time. One plug for the restaurant would be if you like crab legs, they are all you can eat, unfortunately none of us like to work that hard to eat...the peel and eat shrimp was a challenge enough.

Of course every night is good when I get to come home with this honey!

AAAAAAGH!!!!!!!!

This is pretty much me right now. I'm not mad at anyone in particular...just the hell life will be for the next six months!!!!!!!!

Remember middle son's spring break in Mississippi. Remember middle son's ticket in Alabama. Now middle son's license has been suspended for six months because unless you are over 21 you can only have 4 points on your driver's license. Seems that he managed to acquire the magical number while flying through Alabama, when he was stopped by some backwoods country law.

So for the next 6 months he will be dependent on us. He is in North Carolina and needs to come home before said license expires. He will be pissed and moody. I will have to put up with his mood and his dad's bad mood because he is pouty and moody.

So I'm pissed!!!!!!!!!!! Why is it that happiness and elation can only live here for about 24 hours before being rooted out by something dark and mysterious? UUUUUUUUUGGGGGGGGHHH.

Teacher of the Year!?

What in the world! NH called me around 4:15 when I was on my way to the chiropractor and says, "Guess What? I'm surrounded by great teachers. Last years TOY and this years TOY."

My response was did you win! She says no, you did!!! WHAT!!!!!!!!!

I had just had a long conversation with another teacher about how NH needed to be TOY. I was the one who nominated her and wrote this wonderful paper I might add. Seems NH nominated me!! Go figure.

Oh well, I have great friends and it is an honor to be TOY. I remember 24 years ago holding this fat little baby boy and deciding to stay home with him. Oh how I thought my life was over with! At the time I was sure that my professional life was over. Then this award today.

Life sure is funny isn't it.

Freda, Nanci, and me at Hannah's wedding. What's with us all wearing the same colors.

Greatings from the Far Side of the Lake

This weekend I brought back a boatload of work to do! There is just so many things going on. Things are so busy this time of the year. Plus in a week moment to replinsh the cash flow at the Manor I signed up to teach summer school. However, I plan to use some of that money for a couple of massages (maybe even a spa treatment day) and a trip to OK.

Anyway, last night G-man had a middle school dance. It was a luau, so he wore a Hawaiian shirt. He had fun, but Dan and I ended up piddling around Monticello until dance was over. We ate Mexican. They forgot to put the guacamole on my order and didn't bring it after I asked for it, so my meal was free. We then stopped at the grocery, have I mentioned I love the grocery store here. Then went for DQ. So not bad, but I was tired.

This morning is busy with housework, schoolwork, and movie watching.

This is a picture of the swampy marsh I pass every morning on the way to work. It really has changed over the seasons.

This is a picture of the drummer boy at his concert on Thursday night.

And finally all people are settled on a name for the pup. She is now Lucy.

Lots of Stuff

Today I took off work to be a mommy. I don't do that very ofter with G. The others had much more of me. Anyway we went on a field trip to see the King Tut exhibit in Atlanta. You gotta love Atlanta!

Since the exhibit is about ready to close, there were a ton of people there. I don't really like these type things when there are so many people in one room you really can't see anything. I think they tried to stagger folks, but it didn't work.

This is G's class. One little girl (who hid in this picture) amazed me with her approach to the treasures of King Tut. She read carefully each thing. You could tell this wasn't her first time at a musuem, so I asked one of the teachers. They said she was from New York (you know I love all things New York) and it showed she was a bit more cultured than the rest.

Afterwards my big boy wanted to go and get a hamburger (we didn't eat breakfast). I thought it could have been the biggest one I'd ever seen. We went to Chili's and I thought of F and the endless chips and dip.

Next, we went to the Scholastic Warehouse sale. Be still my heart. However, my heart would have been beating fast had I known what I was teaching next year. I thought of all types of author studies that we could do.

We topped it off with a little stop a Sonic for a Cherry Limeade. Heavenly and it was Happy Hour.

Also, I haven't shown ya'll this cutey who now resides with us.

That's because we can't settle on a one syllable name(its a boarder collie thing). Anyway, her registered name is Bella. We just lost our beloved Belle a couple of years ago, so Matt's not hip on the name. Everyday her personality changes. I'm thinking she is a Matilda (Mattie for short) of course Matt wants no part of that. He wants to name her Jane...this dog is no plain Jane.