You Are Puzzled Over |
 You are quirky, complicated, and brilliant. You tend to feel a bit misunderstood by everyone, and that troubles you. It's likely that you will have four or more children... whether you use birth control or not! You are easily effected by the world around you. You are emotional and even a bit moody. You are a bit lazy. You sometimes don't shower or brush your teeth all day. You are quite conservative. You are neither a flirter or a flaunter. |
Sunday, January 25, 2009
Belly Buttons
Who knew?
Friday, January 23, 2009
Funding Abortion Internationally
Obviously, I'm against this. I have many reasons that I won't get into, but I really think my biggest reason is that abortion in African countries is not a solution... or anywhere for that matter. There is an epidemic, HIV/AIDS, malaria, civil wars, extremist government takeovers.... killing off newer generations, sometimes we actually call that genocide, will not keep Africans from having more children. Why? Because 1) Africans covet children. Children are their life-blood. We can learn from them. 2) The reason they have so many.... is because only a few will survive. They are not interested in killing them before they are born. That's a crazy Western mentality. Doesn't work there.... but you'd have to actually want to solve a real problem to understand that. Let's put our money, our hard earned tax dollars, on things that matter in international countries instead of once again trying to impose "our" beliefs, that HIV/AIDS babies are better off dead (not my personal belief!), on them!
What Does that Mean?
The girls and I were having a conversation this morning that left me puzzled. See if you can follow along....
Me to Em: Next year, when you go back to school, there will be a new library! (They are going to finish the building renovations...)
Em: I know!
Me: And all the pods (clusters of classrooms for each grade) will look like the third grade pod.
Kt: You know what I hate about the third grade pod? The floor in front of it is tile, so when it rains...
Me: Well, we know from Mom's school that tile is better than carpet. It doesn't hold mold, which makes you sick.
Kt: I know...
Em: You know what makes ME sick at school? The markers.
Me: What do you mean?
Em: When I smell those Expo markers, they make my nose run. I think I'm allergic to them.
Me: You know, you're not supposed to just smell them - that's bad for you.
Em: I know! (with her mischievous giggle)
Kt: You know, if you smell those markers you can die.
Em: I KNOW!! (giggling some more)
I'm not sure what to make of that....
Me to Em: Next year, when you go back to school, there will be a new library! (They are going to finish the building renovations...)
Em: I know!
Me: And all the pods (clusters of classrooms for each grade) will look like the third grade pod.
Kt: You know what I hate about the third grade pod? The floor in front of it is tile, so when it rains...
Me: Well, we know from Mom's school that tile is better than carpet. It doesn't hold mold, which makes you sick.
Kt: I know...
Em: You know what makes ME sick at school? The markers.
Me: What do you mean?
Em: When I smell those Expo markers, they make my nose run. I think I'm allergic to them.
Me: You know, you're not supposed to just smell them - that's bad for you.
Em: I know! (with her mischievous giggle)
Kt: You know, if you smell those markers you can die.
Em: I KNOW!! (giggling some more)
I'm not sure what to make of that....
Thursday, January 22, 2009
in a manner that is consistent with our values and our ideals
I guess this is where everything gets a little fuzzy between Obama and I. I have no idea what he thinks OUR values and ideals are. Somehow, the thought has occurred to me that they are a little different. I guess it would have been good to have that clarified before Nov. 4, but nobody wanted to make him do that, or answer many other difficult questions. Now we're just left to wonder. As the president is signing our federal tax dollars away....
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Mr. Previs
I wrote a post a while ago about my (and many other's) all time favorite principal ever. As a teacher, he's really an ideal for me. I've never met anyone who is like him in leadership style, temperament, devotion to kids and staff and intelligence as an elementary school principal. Unfortunately, he left our beloved elementary school with the stain of scandal on his reputation, but a scandal that was not proved nor accepted easily by those who knew him. Why? Because the thought of this man doing something so ridiculous as changing test scores on Standardized tests, lying about it (and passing lie detector tests which indicated that he did not do this) and then resigning to protect his staff against an internal investigation.... just didn't add up. To this day, there is an active facebook group of former students who believe he is innocent. Every once in a while I check that group and just love the comments people leave that help me to remember why we loved him!! Here are some quotes:
~ "What other elementary school principal would sub for gym class ... and knowingly try to kick your a** in dodgeball????"
~ "MR. NOREN ... PLEASE REPORT TO THE CAFETERIA ... WITH A MOP!!!!" (This was a frequent announcement made by Mr. Previs, who was our only lunch aide all the years he worked at our school. He monitored the lunch room while helping kids finish up schoolwork at back tables.)
~ "Don't forget about juggling, intramural basketball, and after school roller skating, AND of course, unicycling!!! :)" (I was one of the unicyclers.... and there was clowning, double dutch jumproping....)
~ "He was one of the best people I have ever met, only cared for the kids, he was very humble, not at all showy, the absolute last person who would do something dishonest. And only people who don't know him would think otherwise. My four brothers and I all went to
Stratfield, and we are all very grateful it was when Mr. Previs was there!! We feel we are better people for having known him. If we had a The Western Onion right now I would send him a secret note to say, "Mr Previs, we all KNOW that you are the best!!"" (Every spring, we would have a school fair and the Western Onion was a little station where, for a ticket, you could write a note to someone. All afternoon and evening, we could hear it at my house!!, names would be announced.... "Deanna Lovegren, will you please come to the Western Onion!" and you'd know there was a secret note for you!!"
~ "He not only cared for all his kids, after we graduated, he kept up on all of us. He knew his kids' names and faces even after they graduated from college." (So true... he never forgot me, I was always welcome to visit, and he even offered me a job right out of college without a teaching certificate in my hand. I already had one, so I regretfully declined. That was only a year or two before this mess....)
~ "the rule of eating 2 items....what principal is there now that is that attentive to his/her students?" (He was a genius, probably the only person I ever met with a photographic memory - at least I'm pretty sure that's what it was!)
~ "Remember that slide show with the John Denver music that Mr. Previs used to play at the end of every year!! haha!" (Send in the Clowns.... he'd put together a slide show every year for the 6th grade graduation...)
~ "Of course there was always the Memorial Day parade, and to this day, the kids at Stratfield still do the "parade of the States"! That awesome tradition started with the 1986 parade...."
~ " And also had the opportunity to learn LOGO (okay NOW i'm really dating myself here) on a Apple II computer (yup, REALLY dating myself here!), and that was back in 1983-84! Oh yes, and the famous Stratfield fair in the spring....and getting free popcorn if we helped to clean up afterwards! Ahhhhh those were good times...." (I learned LOGO as well... with that little turtle!)
~ "I recall him saying that there's more than one way to solve a problem (I was part of "Operation Mind Stretch in 5th grade, plus was also part of the trial run of Odyssey of the Mind). I still have my Iowa Test Scores from when I was at Stratfield (CT Masterys did not happen until after I left there) and I believe those were *not* tampered with at all....I know my abilities, and believe in them....it still hurts after a number of years that a principal who was so good w/ the students and teachers at Stratfield was forced to resign over "Erasergate"." (I was in PACE (Personal Achievement Creative Enrichment) and OMS (Operation Mind Stretch) as well.... run by Mr. Previs himself!)
~ "he used to play dodgebll with us!
and if u were the last one and didnt get hit 3 times he bought u an ice cream!"
~ "Roger Previs remembers every name and face he ever encountered in his tenure as principal at the Stratfield School for growing children." (True, indeed... I'm not sure any of my girls' principals can say the same...."
~ "anyone remember the after school rollerblading game where he threw hard balls at us while we skated in circles and tried to avoid a broken leg?
awesome. best principal.
live. love. roger previs."
~ "I remember getting in trouble probably 3 times a week and having to write letters of apology saying what i did and why it was wrong. THe letter had to be signed by my parents and Mr. Previs. I forged both my parents and Mr. Previs' signature. I didn't care that i forged my parents signature, but the look on Mr. Previs' face after seeing what i had tried doing is still too much for me to handle. I'm sorry Mr. Previs! I'm sorry!" (So classic....)
Of course, there are those who think he might have actually changed those test scores... but I've never seen the proof. Someone did, I just don't think it was him! My greatest challenge was trying to make Mr. Previs laugh, something he rarely did. From all the quotes here, there was no doubt he was amazing and while we all feared him as a principal, it was only because we loved and respected him and wanted him to be proud of the students he gave 100% to. Incidentally, he never had any children of his own, which to me only makes his story more remarkable. I hope he realizes that he is still loved in the hearts of those whose lives he invested in. Thanks, Mr. Previs!
~ "What other elementary school principal would sub for gym class ... and knowingly try to kick your a** in dodgeball????"
~ "MR. NOREN ... PLEASE REPORT TO THE CAFETERIA ... WITH A MOP!!!!" (This was a frequent announcement made by Mr. Previs, who was our only lunch aide all the years he worked at our school. He monitored the lunch room while helping kids finish up schoolwork at back tables.)
~ "Don't forget about juggling, intramural basketball, and after school roller skating, AND of course, unicycling!!! :)" (I was one of the unicyclers.... and there was clowning, double dutch jumproping....)
~ "He was one of the best people I have ever met, only cared for the kids, he was very humble, not at all showy, the absolute last person who would do something dishonest. And only people who don't know him would think otherwise. My four brothers and I all went to
Stratfield, and we are all very grateful it was when Mr. Previs was there!! We feel we are better people for having known him. If we had a The Western Onion right now I would send him a secret note to say, "Mr Previs, we all KNOW that you are the best!!"" (Every spring, we would have a school fair and the Western Onion was a little station where, for a ticket, you could write a note to someone. All afternoon and evening, we could hear it at my house!!, names would be announced.... "Deanna Lovegren, will you please come to the Western Onion!" and you'd know there was a secret note for you!!"
~ "He not only cared for all his kids, after we graduated, he kept up on all of us. He knew his kids' names and faces even after they graduated from college." (So true... he never forgot me, I was always welcome to visit, and he even offered me a job right out of college without a teaching certificate in my hand. I already had one, so I regretfully declined. That was only a year or two before this mess....)
~ "the rule of eating 2 items....what principal is there now that is that attentive to his/her students?" (He was a genius, probably the only person I ever met with a photographic memory - at least I'm pretty sure that's what it was!)
~ "Remember that slide show with the John Denver music that Mr. Previs used to play at the end of every year!! haha!" (Send in the Clowns.... he'd put together a slide show every year for the 6th grade graduation...)
~ "Of course there was always the Memorial Day parade, and to this day, the kids at Stratfield still do the "parade of the States"! That awesome tradition started with the 1986 parade...."
~ " And also had the opportunity to learn LOGO (okay NOW i'm really dating myself here) on a Apple II computer (yup, REALLY dating myself here!), and that was back in 1983-84! Oh yes, and the famous Stratfield fair in the spring....and getting free popcorn if we helped to clean up afterwards! Ahhhhh those were good times...." (I learned LOGO as well... with that little turtle!)
~ "I recall him saying that there's more than one way to solve a problem (I was part of "Operation Mind Stretch in 5th grade, plus was also part of the trial run of Odyssey of the Mind). I still have my Iowa Test Scores from when I was at Stratfield (CT Masterys did not happen until after I left there) and I believe those were *not* tampered with at all....I know my abilities, and believe in them....it still hurts after a number of years that a principal who was so good w/ the students and teachers at Stratfield was forced to resign over "Erasergate"." (I was in PACE (Personal Achievement Creative Enrichment) and OMS (Operation Mind Stretch) as well.... run by Mr. Previs himself!)
~ "he used to play dodgebll with us!
and if u were the last one and didnt get hit 3 times he bought u an ice cream!"
~ "Roger Previs remembers every name and face he ever encountered in his tenure as principal at the Stratfield School for growing children." (True, indeed... I'm not sure any of my girls' principals can say the same...."
~ "anyone remember the after school rollerblading game where he threw hard balls at us while we skated in circles and tried to avoid a broken leg?
awesome. best principal.
live. love. roger previs."
~ "I remember getting in trouble probably 3 times a week and having to write letters of apology saying what i did and why it was wrong. THe letter had to be signed by my parents and Mr. Previs. I forged both my parents and Mr. Previs' signature. I didn't care that i forged my parents signature, but the look on Mr. Previs' face after seeing what i had tried doing is still too much for me to handle. I'm sorry Mr. Previs! I'm sorry!" (So classic....)
Of course, there are those who think he might have actually changed those test scores... but I've never seen the proof. Someone did, I just don't think it was him! My greatest challenge was trying to make Mr. Previs laugh, something he rarely did. From all the quotes here, there was no doubt he was amazing and while we all feared him as a principal, it was only because we loved and respected him and wanted him to be proud of the students he gave 100% to. Incidentally, he never had any children of his own, which to me only makes his story more remarkable. I hope he realizes that he is still loved in the hearts of those whose lives he invested in. Thanks, Mr. Previs!
Does It Feel Different?
I don't know about you, but today doesn't really feel any different than yesterday. I don't feel any more or less hopeful about the future of America, I don't feel like much has changed quite yet and I'm still wishing it was summer! =) I'm a little sad the Bushes are gone, kind of happy there are two beautiful First Children the same ages as my own girls. It just kind of feels the same.
Yesterday afternoon I finally made my trip to the grocery store. While there, I ran into a woman who announced she was from South Carolina (which was why she didn't have a discount card) so I took a stab in the dark and asked her if she was in town for the inauguration. She was African American and I've wondered if I were, I would think yesterday would have been a very significant day. She replied that she had gone and it was FREEZING! In fact, I was a little surprised she was out of the city already!! I asked her if she was able to see anything and she said only on a big screen from far away - she actually kind of sounded disgusted with the whole experience. I wished her well and reminded her that at least she could say she was there! Hmmm....
I read this afternoon that Obama has already frozen the salaries of White House staffers who make over $100,000/year. I wonder if that includes him? Imagine being on your job for one day and having your salary frozen? EEK!! Personally, I'd much rather have had the millions of dollars spent on the past three days of inaugural festivites used to pay hard working Americans their due than to have spent all that money on parties... just a thought!
Fortunately, I'm not the president. If I were..... we'd have no booing at official, historical ceremonies (just demonstrates a certain disrespect among this newer generation of Americans),
we would not plan days of lavish parties whilst campaining on economic devastation ranking up there with a Great Depression, we'd expect, at some point, to receive the same respect/disrespect we'd shown towards the office we now hold. But, I'm not the President. I don't have the advantage of doing things my way! ;-) And I'm sure you are all happy it is the way it is.
One thing that does feel a bit different to me is the prospect of having to wonder about my safety again. Under Bush, I really felt a sense of protection and well-being that I no longer feel. Maybe if I lived in Timbuktoo I'd feel that way, but being 30 miles from the White House, 10 miles from NSA.... I'm not feeling that so much anymore. I hope and pray this uneasiness goes away soon!!
So, do you feel any different today?
Yesterday afternoon I finally made my trip to the grocery store. While there, I ran into a woman who announced she was from South Carolina (which was why she didn't have a discount card) so I took a stab in the dark and asked her if she was in town for the inauguration. She was African American and I've wondered if I were, I would think yesterday would have been a very significant day. She replied that she had gone and it was FREEZING! In fact, I was a little surprised she was out of the city already!! I asked her if she was able to see anything and she said only on a big screen from far away - she actually kind of sounded disgusted with the whole experience. I wished her well and reminded her that at least she could say she was there! Hmmm....
I read this afternoon that Obama has already frozen the salaries of White House staffers who make over $100,000/year. I wonder if that includes him? Imagine being on your job for one day and having your salary frozen? EEK!! Personally, I'd much rather have had the millions of dollars spent on the past three days of inaugural festivites used to pay hard working Americans their due than to have spent all that money on parties... just a thought!
Fortunately, I'm not the president. If I were..... we'd have no booing at official, historical ceremonies (just demonstrates a certain disrespect among this newer generation of Americans),
we would not plan days of lavish parties whilst campaining on economic devastation ranking up there with a Great Depression, we'd expect, at some point, to receive the same respect/disrespect we'd shown towards the office we now hold. But, I'm not the President. I don't have the advantage of doing things my way! ;-) And I'm sure you are all happy it is the way it is.
One thing that does feel a bit different to me is the prospect of having to wonder about my safety again. Under Bush, I really felt a sense of protection and well-being that I no longer feel. Maybe if I lived in Timbuktoo I'd feel that way, but being 30 miles from the White House, 10 miles from NSA.... I'm not feeling that so much anymore. I hope and pray this uneasiness goes away soon!!
So, do you feel any different today?
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Midyear Review
I've been told I don't have to do this, but for my own evaluation and assessment, I'm working reviews of each of my students. Eventually I will write up something to send home with each of their packets of work from the last quarter. I thought that writing down daily notes on each student would help in this effort, and in many ways it has.... but it is also making my overly detail oriented mind possibly be over analytical.
This type of midyear assessment was laborious when I was a teacher, but now that I am a parent, I can see the value in it even more. I think to myself, on most occasions, "If I were his/her mom, what would I want/need to hear...." The students I work with only come to me because they are identified as needing my help. I just pray my help is really making a difference and really what they need! The only way to determine that is do what I'm doing!!
It's laborious, but someone's gotta do it!
This type of midyear assessment was laborious when I was a teacher, but now that I am a parent, I can see the value in it even more. I think to myself, on most occasions, "If I were his/her mom, what would I want/need to hear...." The students I work with only come to me because they are identified as needing my help. I just pray my help is really making a difference and really what they need! The only way to determine that is do what I'm doing!!
It's laborious, but someone's gotta do it!
Inauguration
I watched history in the making today. I don't know that my thoughts are that interesting, but here they are....
~ I'm proud to be an American. I'm proud that these two presidents today demonstrated what distinguished America from so many other nations, and they did in a very unprecedented way. We know from inaugurations past that it did not have to happen so smoothly, so warmly or so openly. But it did, and I'm thankful to both the Bush family and the Obama family for being so visible in their warm relationship.
~ I wonder if the oath, the fumbling of words the press needled Bush about for years but somehow jumped the barrier of presidents, was the realization of the task that lies ahead moment for Obama. Even John Roberts seemed flustered by the moment - when the eyes of the world were upon them. I do know this: Obama's tween daughter will never let him live that down! I've got one - and I know... they can be brutal!
~ Does Obama know the Lord's Prayer? (That is just a thought that popped into my mind, as Rick Warren began that, I was thinking that I wish I were there to hear 2 million people recite/listen to that!) Oh, I'd give more than a penny for Obama's thoughts... I'm not even sure he realized they were saying that!
~ I'm hoping for a scandal free presidency. I'm hoping the warmness that we witnessed between these two families is an indication that we can count on strong, non-scandalous family unit to spend some time in the White House. I think it's so important for us as a nation to have that.
~ I don't want to see our President fail, not in any area of his life. Yes, his connections, friendships, advisors make me more than nervous. The state of the nation makes me concerned. The climate of world powers and their relationships with us make me uncertain. I hope and pray for this man and his family - that they stay safe, that they make decisions based on wisdom and honor and that they remain true to the God the chose to invite to this inauguration.
~ I want Americans to recognize that this does not mean the end of racism, but the beginning of an era of reconciliation, healing and continued effort to promote equality among all individuals, regardless of race. To think we have reached an end would be premature and detrimental to the slow progress of equality among all humankind. It's an amazing day for Americans, a moment that we can finally say, "We're ready!" We should not think of it as reaching that goal just yet, though.
I, for one (of few?), am very sad to see the Bushes depart the White House. Today only solidified for me that the man who has served us for the past 8 years can put aside vicious attacks, unkind words, unfair assessment of his convictions, and look ahead and embrace the beauty of our country and it's rich history. He is a great example, I believe, to all of us and has forged a way for all Americans to work together for the common good. His grace and resolve will be sorely missed!
OK, time to get back to real life. I got some groceries to pick up!
~ I'm proud to be an American. I'm proud that these two presidents today demonstrated what distinguished America from so many other nations, and they did in a very unprecedented way. We know from inaugurations past that it did not have to happen so smoothly, so warmly or so openly. But it did, and I'm thankful to both the Bush family and the Obama family for being so visible in their warm relationship.
~ I wonder if the oath, the fumbling of words the press needled Bush about for years but somehow jumped the barrier of presidents, was the realization of the task that lies ahead moment for Obama. Even John Roberts seemed flustered by the moment - when the eyes of the world were upon them. I do know this: Obama's tween daughter will never let him live that down! I've got one - and I know... they can be brutal!
~ Does Obama know the Lord's Prayer? (That is just a thought that popped into my mind, as Rick Warren began that, I was thinking that I wish I were there to hear 2 million people recite/listen to that!) Oh, I'd give more than a penny for Obama's thoughts... I'm not even sure he realized they were saying that!
~ I'm hoping for a scandal free presidency. I'm hoping the warmness that we witnessed between these two families is an indication that we can count on strong, non-scandalous family unit to spend some time in the White House. I think it's so important for us as a nation to have that.
~ I don't want to see our President fail, not in any area of his life. Yes, his connections, friendships, advisors make me more than nervous. The state of the nation makes me concerned. The climate of world powers and their relationships with us make me uncertain. I hope and pray for this man and his family - that they stay safe, that they make decisions based on wisdom and honor and that they remain true to the God the chose to invite to this inauguration.
~ I want Americans to recognize that this does not mean the end of racism, but the beginning of an era of reconciliation, healing and continued effort to promote equality among all individuals, regardless of race. To think we have reached an end would be premature and detrimental to the slow progress of equality among all humankind. It's an amazing day for Americans, a moment that we can finally say, "We're ready!" We should not think of it as reaching that goal just yet, though.
I, for one (of few?), am very sad to see the Bushes depart the White House. Today only solidified for me that the man who has served us for the past 8 years can put aside vicious attacks, unkind words, unfair assessment of his convictions, and look ahead and embrace the beauty of our country and it's rich history. He is a great example, I believe, to all of us and has forged a way for all Americans to work together for the common good. His grace and resolve will be sorely missed!
OK, time to get back to real life. I got some groceries to pick up!
What Do You Think?
I was just watching a live interview with a black woman on the mall from the UK. She was talking about how she came here to witness the first African-American president being sworn in because it's "like the end of racism in the US." She goes on to say, "Well, you know, in the UK we don't really have a problem with racism anymore...." Really??? I'm just trying to wrap my mind around that stunning statement... On one hand, she seems to be saying that the end of racism is equivalent to have the highest office held by a person of another race. Then again, she seems to think there is no racism in England, where the office of Prime Minister is.... held by a black person??? Has ever been held by a person of another race??? Where the Royal Family will ever be anything but white??? I'm not understanding the thinking here. What say you?
Monday, January 19, 2009
Change that is Regurgitated
In the final hours of President Bush's leadership, CNN is reporting that the change that's coming could include a Clintonesque repeat... not the kind of change I was hoping for, but one I naturally assumed we'd see. I'm very disturbed by the prospect of my tax money being used to promote, facilitate and fund international abortion. It's one thing to legislate free choice for American citizens. It's a completely different thing to use federal tax payer dollars to support something so morally offensive, but to support and encourage that beyond our borders.... I'm repulsed. I pray for a concience for our new leaders. There is nothing "new" or anything I believe in happening in this one.
UPDATE: And here it is... your tax dollars to fund non-governmental agencies abroad to counsel and perform abortions..... I am firmly against my money being used this way.
UPDATE: And here it is... your tax dollars to fund non-governmental agencies abroad to counsel and perform abortions..... I am firmly against my money being used this way.
Disney World
Anyone who knows me knows I LOVE Disney World. I just really believe it's magical and I'm a sucker for the white glove treatment!! When friends of our are planning a trip, I often get asked for "the email" that I send out. It's a little easier than reading through the whole Fodor's book. I also like to gather info from our friends who return because, truthfully, it's been 2 full years since I've stepped foot in the park. =( I'm becoming a Disney dinosaur.
This week, because it's a short school week AND people who live around DC are finding any and every excuse not to be around, a friend of ours was heading to DW and asked for my email. In that email I referred her to another mutual friend who has been going to DW about 2-3 times a year recently!! My first friend just called me this morning from DW (while it was snowing here... how depressing!) to tell me that she never did call these other friends, but had a dream last night that they ran into her in the park. She was calling to tell me that her husband had just texted from somewhere else in the park and he had just run into them!! She thought I would like to know their funny story!
After I got off the phone, T said, "I'm going to email all your friends and tell them 'NEVER call my wife at home if you're actually IN Disney World'"! I'll add to that... especially on a day off from school, in the middle of the winter, when it's snowing!!
This week, because it's a short school week AND people who live around DC are finding any and every excuse not to be around, a friend of ours was heading to DW and asked for my email. In that email I referred her to another mutual friend who has been going to DW about 2-3 times a year recently!! My first friend just called me this morning from DW (while it was snowing here... how depressing!) to tell me that she never did call these other friends, but had a dream last night that they ran into her in the park. She was calling to tell me that her husband had just texted from somewhere else in the park and he had just run into them!! She thought I would like to know their funny story!
After I got off the phone, T said, "I'm going to email all your friends and tell them 'NEVER call my wife at home if you're actually IN Disney World'"! I'll add to that... especially on a day off from school, in the middle of the winter, when it's snowing!!
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Tyrants and Such
I read this piece today on just how history may treat Bush. It is intriguing.
Interestingly, I find it perplexing that Obama seems to align himself and his presidency with Lincoln's or Roosevelt's, both staunch Republican presidents. I'm actually kind of astonished, but time will tell. We'll just have to wait and see how it all plays out.
Also, my mom sent me some interesting Thomas Jefferson quotes today, the president who was Bill Clinton's "hero". Do these guys even know who their heroes really were?? Mind-boggling. Just a really good indication that I have no idea when it comes to politics. I'll just leave it all here for you to ponder! Enjoy:
Interestingly, I find it perplexing that Obama seems to align himself and his presidency with Lincoln's or Roosevelt's, both staunch Republican presidents. I'm actually kind of astonished, but time will tell. We'll just have to wait and see how it all plays out.
Also, my mom sent me some interesting Thomas Jefferson quotes today, the president who was Bill Clinton's "hero". Do these guys even know who their heroes really were?? Mind-boggling. Just a really good indication that I have no idea when it comes to politics. I'll just leave it all here for you to ponder! Enjoy:
When we get piled upon one another in large cities, as in Europe, we
shall become as corrupt as Europe.
Thomas Jefferson
The democracy will cease to exist when you take away from those who
are willing to work and give to those who would not.
Thomas Jefferson
It is incumbent on every generation to pay its own debts as it goes. A
principle which if acted on would save one-half the wars of the world.
Thomas Jefferson
I predict future happiness for Americans if they can prevent the
government from wasting the labors of the people under the pretense of
taking care of them.
Thomas Jefferson
My reading of history convinces me that most bad government results
from too much government
Thomas Jefferson
No free man shall ever be debarred the use of arms.
Thomas Jefferson
The strongest reason for the people to retain the right to keep and
bear arms is, as a last resort, to protect themselves against tyranny
in government.
Thomas Jefferson
The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood
of patriots and tyrants.
Thomas Jefferson
To compel a man to subsidize with his taxes the propagation of ideas
which he disbelieves and abhors is sinful and tyrannical.
Thomas Jefferson
Very Interesting Quote
In light of the present financial crisis, it's interesting to read
what Thomas Jefferson said in 1802:
'I believe that banking institutions are more dangerous to our
liberties than standing armies. If the American people ever allow
private banks to control the issue of their currency, first by
inflation, then by deflation, the banks and corporations that will
grow up around the banks will deprive the people of all property until
their children wake-up homeless on the continent their fathers
conquered.
shall become as corrupt as Europe.
Thomas Jefferson
The democracy will cease to exist when you take away from those who
are willing to work and give to those who would not.
Thomas Jefferson
It is incumbent on every generation to pay its own debts as it goes. A
principle which if acted on would save one-half the wars of the world.
Thomas Jefferson
I predict future happiness for Americans if they can prevent the
government from wasting the labors of the people under the pretense of
taking care of them.
Thomas Jefferson
My reading of history convinces me that most bad government results
from too much government
Thomas Jefferson
No free man shall ever be debarred the use of arms.
Thomas Jefferson
The strongest reason for the people to retain the right to keep and
bear arms is, as a last resort, to protect themselves against tyranny
in government.
Thomas Jefferson
The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood
of patriots and tyrants.
Thomas Jefferson
To compel a man to subsidize with his taxes the propagation of ideas
which he disbelieves and abhors is sinful and tyrannical.
Thomas Jefferson
Very Interesting Quote
In light of the present financial crisis, it's interesting to read
what Thomas Jefferson said in 1802:
'I believe that banking institutions are more dangerous to our
liberties than standing armies. If the American people ever allow
private banks to control the issue of their currency, first by
inflation, then by deflation, the banks and corporations that will
grow up around the banks will deprive the people of all property until
their children wake-up homeless on the continent their fathers
conquered.
Saturday, January 17, 2009
Lost in Conversation
I have no concept of how a man's brain "works", if you can call it that! Tonight's perfect example:
3:30pm
T: How about we go out to Outback tonight with those gift cards.
Me: OK.
T falls asleep and doesn't wake up (on a Saturday night) until 6:30.
T: What do you want to do for dinner?
Me: Well, I know you said Outback, but I'm so warm here, how about fajitas from La Palapa??
T: Um, well, is that what you want?
Me: I could really use some chips and salsa.
T: So, do you want to go out or stay in.
Me: If you really want to go, I guess I could get myself out of this nice, warm bed, but I'd rather just stay in.
T: (yelling downstairs) Em, do you want to go to Outback tonight?
Me: Well, OK.... I guess I'll have to drag myself out of this warm bed and go out at 6:30 on a Saturday and wait for Outback...
T: What? Did you want to do something different?
Me: Did you listen to any of the conversation I just had with you?????
30 minutes later, we get to Outback. There is a line to pull into the parking lot. I suggest we quickly pick up our stuff we need at Target and head down to the other Outback.... after realizing even Pizzeria Uno is completely full. While in Target, T is nowhere to be found... then we see him walking towards us with his phone in hand, I mean on his ear.
Me: Who are you talking to?
T: Outback. I'm calling to see if I can get a table reservation for us.
Me: But there's no place to even park there.
T: I'm sure there will be parking by the time we get there. (It's in the same shopping center as target and we're next in line).
T: (on phone) Hi, can I make a reservation? We're about 20 minutes.... 3 of us.... oh, really? Uh, OK.
T: (to me) They can't give us anything until 7:50.
Em: Can we just go to McDonald's????
Me: Well, that's just too late.
T: How about we just order from La Palapa.
Me: And not drive to the other Outback?
T: Well, that would take us just as long.....
Me: ..................................................
I just don't understand. Nothing registers? Processing issue?? Anyway, I ended up having to go out when I didn't need to - I can process that pretty easily! Especially when it's 23 degrees outside!!
3:30pm
T: How about we go out to Outback tonight with those gift cards.
Me: OK.
T falls asleep and doesn't wake up (on a Saturday night) until 6:30.
T: What do you want to do for dinner?
Me: Well, I know you said Outback, but I'm so warm here, how about fajitas from La Palapa??
T: Um, well, is that what you want?
Me: I could really use some chips and salsa.
T: So, do you want to go out or stay in.
Me: If you really want to go, I guess I could get myself out of this nice, warm bed, but I'd rather just stay in.
T: (yelling downstairs) Em, do you want to go to Outback tonight?
Me: Well, OK.... I guess I'll have to drag myself out of this warm bed and go out at 6:30 on a Saturday and wait for Outback...
T: What? Did you want to do something different?
Me: Did you listen to any of the conversation I just had with you?????
30 minutes later, we get to Outback. There is a line to pull into the parking lot. I suggest we quickly pick up our stuff we need at Target and head down to the other Outback.... after realizing even Pizzeria Uno is completely full. While in Target, T is nowhere to be found... then we see him walking towards us with his phone in hand, I mean on his ear.
Me: Who are you talking to?
T: Outback. I'm calling to see if I can get a table reservation for us.
Me: But there's no place to even park there.
T: I'm sure there will be parking by the time we get there. (It's in the same shopping center as target and we're next in line).
T: (on phone) Hi, can I make a reservation? We're about 20 minutes.... 3 of us.... oh, really? Uh, OK.
T: (to me) They can't give us anything until 7:50.
Em: Can we just go to McDonald's????
Me: Well, that's just too late.
T: How about we just order from La Palapa.
Me: And not drive to the other Outback?
T: Well, that would take us just as long.....
Me: ..................................................
I just don't understand. Nothing registers? Processing issue?? Anyway, I ended up having to go out when I didn't need to - I can process that pretty easily! Especially when it's 23 degrees outside!!
Friday, January 16, 2009
MRI
So, it's great news. Better than I'd anticipated! Nothing new to report other than I have no masses or tumors on any of my abdominal internal organs (weird, but relieving to know). I have some new meds to try to reduce the cholesterol my body so vigorously attempts to retain - so we'll see how that goes. Otherwise, I have no reason to visit the doctor again until July! I'm in shock. (I usually go every 4 months). I was even home by 4, which is unheard of. I guess there's something to be said for Friday afternoon doctor visits - nobody wants to stay long! =)
Today's the Day
Sometimes there is just nothing worse than sitting around all day waiting for a doctor's appointment. That's what I'm doing today. Today I find out those MRI results and my appointment is at 3:30! UGH! So... just finding things to do to bide my time. Impossible to keep it out of my mind.
Lunch yesterday with some neighborhood friends was fun. Water aerobics last night on one of the coldest nights I can remember!! I'm leaning towards staying in bed today on this now 15 degree morning, but instead I'm heading down to that treadmill, which has actually proven to be a good motivator in many ways. Then over to school to drop off a paper that KT left home... deja vu. It's my once a week trek for that girl!
The best part about today is remembering I only have a one day work week next week! Monday is off and Tuesday my school has off for Inauguration Day! Whoopie! I'm looking forward to that, just not looking forward to this afternoon! =(
Lunch yesterday with some neighborhood friends was fun. Water aerobics last night on one of the coldest nights I can remember!! I'm leaning towards staying in bed today on this now 15 degree morning, but instead I'm heading down to that treadmill, which has actually proven to be a good motivator in many ways. Then over to school to drop off a paper that KT left home... deja vu. It's my once a week trek for that girl!
The best part about today is remembering I only have a one day work week next week! Monday is off and Tuesday my school has off for Inauguration Day! Whoopie! I'm looking forward to that, just not looking forward to this afternoon! =(
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Hearing, Ears and Such
I recently had to do this Random 25 Things about me that's going around Facebook. It was kind of funny. My old elementary/junior/high school friends really put a lot of detail into their lists. We could write books about what people shared! One of my random things was that I've had a hearing loss pretty much all my life. The assumed cause is the rolling down someone's basement steps with no railing and slamming my forehead on the stone slab at the bottom of it. The next day, most likely due to the disorientation caused by the previous days trauma, I fell down our front steps and repeated ending above on the sidewalk. I have a picture (gotta find that!) and a bump on my forehead to this day to prove it!
From that point on, I was tested for this residual hearing loss. Of course, there was no mention in here of the hereditary factors (like my grandfather being nearly deaf!) that might have played a role in such a handicap. Instead, the conclusion was drawn that I should 1. avoid playing the violin, since I am unable to hear super high frequency sounds and other super low ones. 2. avoid all rock concerts (yeah, right!). and 3. understand that sound discrimination would be an issue, especially as I get older. Well, they were right. If there is noise of any kind, I can't hear you!
I shared a portion of this being sure to add that if anyone yelled to me, either in the hallway at school or at the overly crowded 20th reunion and I appeared to be ignoring them, chances are I couldn't even hear them. It's difficult enough for me to hear a person in a crowded room yelling into my ear! As I think about it, though, there are other instances when I've been an embarrassment to my friends and family.
For example, for each of our birthdays senior year of high school, a small group of my friends and I would set up elaborate celebrations - or scavenger hunts, or kidnappings.... For mine, my friends kidnapped me, which entailed a very tight blindfold that covered my ears (mistake of utmost importance!) and took me to one of our favorite restaurant, Sidetracks. Once inside, I "announced" that I knew we were in Sidetracks, removed my blindfold and was looking at 6 very redfaced friends. They were totally quiet, looking around... until one of them finally said, "You didn't have to scream it!" Honestly, to this day, I don't recall screaming anything, but clearly I did!
Another remembrance that comes to mind, as I gather my things to head down to the basement, is the MP3 player. My husband kindly tells me to "keep it down" when I have that thing on, and he does not mean the volume! He basically told me "Don't even whisper!" Truthfully, it's embarrassing to be yelling when I don't even realize I'm yelling. When I have nothing over my ears, all anyone ever does is complain how softly I speak or that they can't even understand me. It's such a dichotomy there can only be one explanation - this hearing thing!
So, let this be a warning to you... if you see me, tap my shoulder. If you see me with headphones on, don't listen. It is sure to be a doozy!
From that point on, I was tested for this residual hearing loss. Of course, there was no mention in here of the hereditary factors (like my grandfather being nearly deaf!) that might have played a role in such a handicap. Instead, the conclusion was drawn that I should 1. avoid playing the violin, since I am unable to hear super high frequency sounds and other super low ones. 2. avoid all rock concerts (yeah, right!). and 3. understand that sound discrimination would be an issue, especially as I get older. Well, they were right. If there is noise of any kind, I can't hear you!
I shared a portion of this being sure to add that if anyone yelled to me, either in the hallway at school or at the overly crowded 20th reunion and I appeared to be ignoring them, chances are I couldn't even hear them. It's difficult enough for me to hear a person in a crowded room yelling into my ear! As I think about it, though, there are other instances when I've been an embarrassment to my friends and family.
For example, for each of our birthdays senior year of high school, a small group of my friends and I would set up elaborate celebrations - or scavenger hunts, or kidnappings.... For mine, my friends kidnapped me, which entailed a very tight blindfold that covered my ears (mistake of utmost importance!) and took me to one of our favorite restaurant, Sidetracks. Once inside, I "announced" that I knew we were in Sidetracks, removed my blindfold and was looking at 6 very redfaced friends. They were totally quiet, looking around... until one of them finally said, "You didn't have to scream it!" Honestly, to this day, I don't recall screaming anything, but clearly I did!
Another remembrance that comes to mind, as I gather my things to head down to the basement, is the MP3 player. My husband kindly tells me to "keep it down" when I have that thing on, and he does not mean the volume! He basically told me "Don't even whisper!" Truthfully, it's embarrassing to be yelling when I don't even realize I'm yelling. When I have nothing over my ears, all anyone ever does is complain how softly I speak or that they can't even understand me. It's such a dichotomy there can only be one explanation - this hearing thing!
So, let this be a warning to you... if you see me, tap my shoulder. If you see me with headphones on, don't listen. It is sure to be a doozy!
Midyear
Since this is my first year back doing anything teaching related, this is my first midyear review stuff. It's so time-consuming, even with just 8 students teaching them one subject. Of course, it's a bit more detailed, anecdotal and specialized/individualized. I'm looking back over months of instruction and seeing a lot of progress and really enjoying the students.
Today's funny moment.... one of my groups is reading a story entitled "An Elephant's Trunk" all about the things an elephant can do with it's trunk. On the back cover is a short poem about the difference between and elephant's trunk and the kind you "pack" clothes in. One of my first graders read "pick" instead of pack clothes in the trunk, so I asked him if that sounded like it made sense. Without hesitation, he replied very confidently, "No, that doesn't make any sense. That's because it's FICTION!" After I recovered, I thought to myself, "These kids are smarter than I give them credit for!"
Today's funny moment.... one of my groups is reading a story entitled "An Elephant's Trunk" all about the things an elephant can do with it's trunk. On the back cover is a short poem about the difference between and elephant's trunk and the kind you "pack" clothes in. One of my first graders read "pick" instead of pack clothes in the trunk, so I asked him if that sounded like it made sense. Without hesitation, he replied very confidently, "No, that doesn't make any sense. That's because it's FICTION!" After I recovered, I thought to myself, "These kids are smarter than I give them credit for!"
Monday, January 12, 2009
Nothing
I have nothing to write about today. I haven't heard anything about my MRI but should know sometime around Friday at 3:30. I had an uneventful Monday morning with my sweet reading group today. I hit the grocery store. My house needs a good, thorough cleaning - any volunteers? The girls were beat after school today. So much homework, no energy. Winter. My living room looks naked without Christmas in it anymore. So does the rest of my house. I'm thinking about decorating for Valentine's Day this week so my house isn't naked anymore. I love Valentine's Day. That's all my nothing for today! =)
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