Ok, not really. I don't have much to blog about. I could tell you about the new fancy trash can but I doubt the foot pedal would be as exciting for you as it is for me.
So I give you this: The Pop vs. Soda Map! I am squarely a 'pop' gal but am fascinated by the use of 'coke' for all carbonated beverages. I also like the quick history of each term below the map.
Pop vs. Soda
Monday, December 08, 2008
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
I got schooled.
Saturday I had an entire day off. All to do with as I please! Whee!
What I actually did was spend the morning in a class to make lounge pants. Because my secret yearning is to be a lounge singer. Ok, couldn't fool you on that one. Basically I made pajama pants and Chris is the lucky owner of the newly created said pants.
Then Chris called and asked me to make an emergency run for bathroom remodeling supplies. So during the first flurry of the season I drove to the store and bought plantation blinds and little tabs to hold the mirror to the wall.
I arrived home for an hour break and then was picked up for my evening activity. It was a haul to get there, but it was a girls' night out to Glass Axis. We made glass ball Christmas ornaments! Well, we picked the color and design and blew into the tube, the knowledgeable expert did the heating and twirling to make the actual bulb. It was a really fun experience and I can't wait to see my final product.
The evening ended with dinner at a small Italian restaurant. It was a little awkward for me because I only knew one person but everyone else worked together. That is ok because I heard some great gossip about the hospital. If Xander ever gets sick, I either know people who work at the hospital or know something about them to get Xander taken care of quickly.
What I actually did was spend the morning in a class to make lounge pants. Because my secret yearning is to be a lounge singer. Ok, couldn't fool you on that one. Basically I made pajama pants and Chris is the lucky owner of the newly created said pants.
Then Chris called and asked me to make an emergency run for bathroom remodeling supplies. So during the first flurry of the season I drove to the store and bought plantation blinds and little tabs to hold the mirror to the wall.
I arrived home for an hour break and then was picked up for my evening activity. It was a haul to get there, but it was a girls' night out to Glass Axis. We made glass ball Christmas ornaments! Well, we picked the color and design and blew into the tube, the knowledgeable expert did the heating and twirling to make the actual bulb. It was a really fun experience and I can't wait to see my final product.
The evening ended with dinner at a small Italian restaurant. It was a little awkward for me because I only knew one person but everyone else worked together. That is ok because I heard some great gossip about the hospital. If Xander ever gets sick, I either know people who work at the hospital or know something about them to get Xander taken care of quickly.
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
WiPs
(That's Work in Progress)
In the sewing realm, we know 4 couples that gave birth or will give birth soon so I made a big bunch of burp cloths for everyone! I tried to personalize them a little, one neighbor has a pirate theme, my cousin has pink, yellow, purple, and the others I wasn't sure about and I used the print you see here.
My Renew group at church decided to put together a 'care' package for the priests at church. I decided my contribution would be a couple of the bags I've made. I know I was going to sell them, but with a regular teaching job I don't have as much time to make them as I had planned.
Knitting wise, I'm working hard on Xander's booties. My mom gave me a kit to make that is for advanced beginners. Yeah, sure. I've gotten most of it, and I'll try felting for the first time. But I can't for the life of me figure out the laces that go up the front when they are done.
Here is what they are supposed to look like when done (except tan and green).
And finally, here is Chris's sweater. I've started it over 4 times. The first three because I couldn't figure out something or just really messed up something. The last time was to increase the size. Seriously, it looks like a sleeve for Chris, but it's supposed to be XL! So it might end up for me, or Xander when I eventually finish it. On the plus side, I'm really getting the hang of cables.
Next up, I need to knit X a pair of mittens and a hat to match his winter coat. And Chris volunteered me to make a hat and mittens for his coworker that complimented the hat I made him last year.
In the sewing realm, we know 4 couples that gave birth or will give birth soon so I made a big bunch of burp cloths for everyone! I tried to personalize them a little, one neighbor has a pirate theme, my cousin has pink, yellow, purple, and the others I wasn't sure about and I used the print you see here.
My Renew group at church decided to put together a 'care' package for the priests at church. I decided my contribution would be a couple of the bags I've made. I know I was going to sell them, but with a regular teaching job I don't have as much time to make them as I had planned.
Knitting wise, I'm working hard on Xander's booties. My mom gave me a kit to make that is for advanced beginners. Yeah, sure. I've gotten most of it, and I'll try felting for the first time. But I can't for the life of me figure out the laces that go up the front when they are done.
Here is what they are supposed to look like when done (except tan and green).
And finally, here is Chris's sweater. I've started it over 4 times. The first three because I couldn't figure out something or just really messed up something. The last time was to increase the size. Seriously, it looks like a sleeve for Chris, but it's supposed to be XL! So it might end up for me, or Xander when I eventually finish it. On the plus side, I'm really getting the hang of cables.
Next up, I need to knit X a pair of mittens and a hat to match his winter coat. And Chris volunteered me to make a hat and mittens for his coworker that complimented the hat I made him last year.
Friday, November 07, 2008
Christmas comes early
For some reason, Chris took it into his head to start searching for my Christmas present extra early. He found it already and it's hanging above the bed. It's The Singing Butler by Jack Vettriano.
It's nicely framed and I smile every time I look at it (or think of it hanging in our room). There something in the picture that I (and many others) just love, though I'm not very good at expressing why. Something about the moment that the couple is enjoying in less than ideal conditions. That's something I would like to remember, to find enjoyment at any time. And a maid and butler would be nice to have too.
It's nicely framed and I smile every time I look at it (or think of it hanging in our room). There something in the picture that I (and many others) just love, though I'm not very good at expressing why. Something about the moment that the couple is enjoying in less than ideal conditions. That's something I would like to remember, to find enjoyment at any time. And a maid and butler would be nice to have too.
Friday, October 24, 2008
I avoid Steve and Jimmy
To be properly attired for my brother's wedding I needed silver, strappy shoes. And I do not like shoe shopping. And September and October are not silver, strappy shoe season in the stores. And did I mention I don't like shoe shopping?
I don't remember when the dislike started. Shoes just never seem to fit me quite right. I'm not quite a narrow, but some shoes are too wide. I am too picky about style and color. I don't like to spend money on shoes that I don't know I'll wear on some consistent basis.
The exception being my Adidas that I don't wear often but will never get rid of.
To give you an idea, my senior year I bought a pair of tan Vans. The ones with a thick sole and rubber across the toe (I'd get a picture, but can't find one). I wore those things for two years straight. They were my comfort shoes during my first year of college. I loved those shoes and when the tread was gone, my mom tried to find a replacement pair. Unfortunately, fashion moved forward and she had to get a different brand that were not the same thing.
But I digress.
I tried to shop for shoes, but the few I found and that fit cost $50+ which I didn't want to fork over.
I found a friend had been in many weddings and thought she had some. Unfortunately, they were a closed, pointed toe and half of a size too small.
So I packed up Xander and made one last effort to find a pair. Off to DSW and I actually found two pairs that worked and had to weigh the pros and cons and actually decide on one pair.
The first pair were these strappy reptile sandals. They were the first shoes I spotted after walking into the store, so I felt like it was meant to be. Pros: price, wearable with jeans. Cons: huge heel.
After meandering around I found these slingbacks in silver tucked away in clearance. They were ok. Pros: better price, lower heal. Cons: don't stay on as well, not really wearable with anything else I own.
So I wandered around some more and let Xander bop in his stroller to the new age-techno music they had going. I tried on these boots for fun and am still tempted to go back for them. And I finally decided to get the reptile sandals. I felt so cool buying them, I never make a purchase like that! And at the wedding, my sister was totally jealous. Of course my feet killed me by the end of the ceremony, but at least I looked good!
I don't remember when the dislike started. Shoes just never seem to fit me quite right. I'm not quite a narrow, but some shoes are too wide. I am too picky about style and color. I don't like to spend money on shoes that I don't know I'll wear on some consistent basis.
The exception being my Adidas that I don't wear often but will never get rid of.
To give you an idea, my senior year I bought a pair of tan Vans. The ones with a thick sole and rubber across the toe (I'd get a picture, but can't find one). I wore those things for two years straight. They were my comfort shoes during my first year of college. I loved those shoes and when the tread was gone, my mom tried to find a replacement pair. Unfortunately, fashion moved forward and she had to get a different brand that were not the same thing.
But I digress.
I tried to shop for shoes, but the few I found and that fit cost $50+ which I didn't want to fork over.
I found a friend had been in many weddings and thought she had some. Unfortunately, they were a closed, pointed toe and half of a size too small.
So I packed up Xander and made one last effort to find a pair. Off to DSW and I actually found two pairs that worked and had to weigh the pros and cons and actually decide on one pair.
The first pair were these strappy reptile sandals. They were the first shoes I spotted after walking into the store, so I felt like it was meant to be. Pros: price, wearable with jeans. Cons: huge heel.
After meandering around I found these slingbacks in silver tucked away in clearance. They were ok. Pros: better price, lower heal. Cons: don't stay on as well, not really wearable with anything else I own.
So I wandered around some more and let Xander bop in his stroller to the new age-techno music they had going. I tried on these boots for fun and am still tempted to go back for them. And I finally decided to get the reptile sandals. I felt so cool buying them, I never make a purchase like that! And at the wedding, my sister was totally jealous. Of course my feet killed me by the end of the ceremony, but at least I looked good!
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Another day, another dress
My brother is married! Wow, it's weird to say he has a wife. I'm sure my siblings thought the same thing when I got married though.
We headed home early on Friday so I could attend a surprise baby shower for my cousin's wife. My cousin and his wife live in Florida, so I gave them burp cloths I made (easy to pack) and pitched in for a gift card.
We went to our hotel and got set up there. It is weird to stay in a hotel in my hometown, but we figured if Xander stayed up screaming then at least we'd only keep up strangers. Lo and behold, our neighbors were my other brother and his girlfriend.
We moseyed over to the church for rehearsal. That and the dinner went smoothly. It was just huge, since the wedding party was huge and everyone's significant other and everyone involved came. Afterward a lot of people went out to the bar, but I headed back to the room with Xander. Chris stayed out late and I can't tell you how many people mentioned how he was the life of the party. Apparently Mark (the brother getting married) had to sneak out while Chris was in the bathroom.
Saturday dawned bright and early and I was off to get my hair done. All of the other girls had lots of curls, but I had more of a slicked back thing done since Xander is a hair puller. Then off to the church to get dressed. And I will be writing another post about my shoes.
The ceremony was sweet and went well. Of course this is where I make my first Bridesmaid Flub. Our dresses were strapless and had a small train and a sash that trailed. Trisha was sure to make sure she wasn't standing on my train when we started the recession, but I didn't do that with the bridesmaid in front of me. Fortunately she just tugged on it a little and made a face (I've heard of strapless dresses coming off when stepped on, yowza). I apologized so profusely afterward.
We all headed out to the party bus to get more pictures taken. The bus was pretty cool, it had seats turned around with tables between. Unfortunately I couldn't enjoy it because of my second Bridesmaid Flub of getting a migraine. I tried not to be a needy, attention hog but I ran off the the bathroom when people where getting pictures and kept standing out in the cold. Then I realized I'd committed another Bridesmaid Flub and lost my bouquet. Ack!
We headed to the reception on the party bus (nausea, nausea, nausea). I kept it together long enough for the introductions, but missed some of my favorite parts of the reception like first dance and cake cutting and food. But I didn't want to leave my brother's wedding reception. I mean, really, it's not something to miss. So I stuck it out and took a few walks out in the cold air. Fortunately, the migraine subsided and I was able to enjoy visiting with relatives I don't see often and some dancing.
By the end of the night I had committed two more Bridesmaid Flubs by breaking the strap of my dress (I added them at the reception) and Xander broke the necklace I was given to wear. I was a little worried he swallowed part of it, but I found it later. Fortunately my new sister-in-law was in no way a bridezilla, so I don't think I caused any issues with all of my problems.
Sunday we woke up and packed up the room and went to brunch at Mark's house to watch him and his bride open gifts. I'd hoped to get some more time in with my aunt's family but we had to head home after that.
Overall, a busy but fun weekend. I'll post a few pictures on Xander's site in a while.
We headed home early on Friday so I could attend a surprise baby shower for my cousin's wife. My cousin and his wife live in Florida, so I gave them burp cloths I made (easy to pack) and pitched in for a gift card.
We went to our hotel and got set up there. It is weird to stay in a hotel in my hometown, but we figured if Xander stayed up screaming then at least we'd only keep up strangers. Lo and behold, our neighbors were my other brother and his girlfriend.
We moseyed over to the church for rehearsal. That and the dinner went smoothly. It was just huge, since the wedding party was huge and everyone's significant other and everyone involved came. Afterward a lot of people went out to the bar, but I headed back to the room with Xander. Chris stayed out late and I can't tell you how many people mentioned how he was the life of the party. Apparently Mark (the brother getting married) had to sneak out while Chris was in the bathroom.
Saturday dawned bright and early and I was off to get my hair done. All of the other girls had lots of curls, but I had more of a slicked back thing done since Xander is a hair puller. Then off to the church to get dressed. And I will be writing another post about my shoes.
The ceremony was sweet and went well. Of course this is where I make my first Bridesmaid Flub. Our dresses were strapless and had a small train and a sash that trailed. Trisha was sure to make sure she wasn't standing on my train when we started the recession, but I didn't do that with the bridesmaid in front of me. Fortunately she just tugged on it a little and made a face (I've heard of strapless dresses coming off when stepped on, yowza). I apologized so profusely afterward.
We all headed out to the party bus to get more pictures taken. The bus was pretty cool, it had seats turned around with tables between. Unfortunately I couldn't enjoy it because of my second Bridesmaid Flub of getting a migraine. I tried not to be a needy, attention hog but I ran off the the bathroom when people where getting pictures and kept standing out in the cold. Then I realized I'd committed another Bridesmaid Flub and lost my bouquet. Ack!
We headed to the reception on the party bus (nausea, nausea, nausea). I kept it together long enough for the introductions, but missed some of my favorite parts of the reception like first dance and cake cutting and food. But I didn't want to leave my brother's wedding reception. I mean, really, it's not something to miss. So I stuck it out and took a few walks out in the cold air. Fortunately, the migraine subsided and I was able to enjoy visiting with relatives I don't see often and some dancing.
By the end of the night I had committed two more Bridesmaid Flubs by breaking the strap of my dress (I added them at the reception) and Xander broke the necklace I was given to wear. I was a little worried he swallowed part of it, but I found it later. Fortunately my new sister-in-law was in no way a bridezilla, so I don't think I caused any issues with all of my problems.
Sunday we woke up and packed up the room and went to brunch at Mark's house to watch him and his bride open gifts. I'd hoped to get some more time in with my aunt's family but we had to head home after that.
Overall, a busy but fun weekend. I'll post a few pictures on Xander's site in a while.
Wednesday, October 08, 2008
Up in the Sky!
Your results:
You are Superman
Click here to take the Superhero Personality Quiz
You are Superman
| You are mild-mannered, good, strong and you love to help others.  |
Click here to take the Superhero Personality Quiz
Tuesday, October 07, 2008
All the king's horses and all the king's men
After I complained about it, the rash and the elbow miraculously healed themselves.
As for the foot and knee, I went to the doctor. He says the knee is actually iliotibial band syndrome. Which sounds about right. He gave me a list of stretches and exercises to help, but no running or weight lifting.
The doctor thought my foot was a stress fracture and sent me in for x-rays. That was last Monday. I finally heard from him on Thursday at about 6 pm. No sign of a fracture, so it was probably a contusion. I'm supposed to ice my foot several times a day and not repeat whatever I did in the first place (which I still don't know what has caused this).
I'm still limping, but now it's more of a stiff, achy feeling rather than the blinding shot of pain. Doc said to give it about three weeks and call again if it's still hurting. Just in time for me to limp down the aisle at my brother's wedding.
As for the foot and knee, I went to the doctor. He says the knee is actually iliotibial band syndrome. Which sounds about right. He gave me a list of stretches and exercises to help, but no running or weight lifting.
The doctor thought my foot was a stress fracture and sent me in for x-rays. That was last Monday. I finally heard from him on Thursday at about 6 pm. No sign of a fracture, so it was probably a contusion. I'm supposed to ice my foot several times a day and not repeat whatever I did in the first place (which I still don't know what has caused this).
I'm still limping, but now it's more of a stiff, achy feeling rather than the blinding shot of pain. Doc said to give it about three weeks and call again if it's still hurting. Just in time for me to limp down the aisle at my brother's wedding.
Saturday, September 27, 2008
Falling Apart in my Old Age
What the heck?
I seem to be getting some minor rash again. Just a few itchy bumps on my arm and leg.
Since I've started running at the beginning of summer, my right knee has bothered me. During the run, the back and outside of it feels like it is tightening up. If I push it, I can't walk down stairs for the next two days. If I don't push it, there is just a minor ache. I've tried stretches, weight lifting and taking a break from running, but nothing helps. It still hurts when I run. I'll be setting up an appointment about this soon.
This past week my right foot started hurting. I can't see any bruising, but that is what it feels like. It's across the balls of my feet and across the top of my foot. It didn't help that I also managed to stub my foot on a shopping cart and have a screen door slam on the foot.
And to top it off, I managed to slam my elbow onto the arm rest in my car hard enough to hurt it. I can't lean on it or even lean on my hand. This morning I went to do my push-ups (did I mention I'm trying 100 push-ups?) and just whimpered.
I promise I won't be so whiny in my next post.
I seem to be getting some minor rash again. Just a few itchy bumps on my arm and leg.
Since I've started running at the beginning of summer, my right knee has bothered me. During the run, the back and outside of it feels like it is tightening up. If I push it, I can't walk down stairs for the next two days. If I don't push it, there is just a minor ache. I've tried stretches, weight lifting and taking a break from running, but nothing helps. It still hurts when I run. I'll be setting up an appointment about this soon.
This past week my right foot started hurting. I can't see any bruising, but that is what it feels like. It's across the balls of my feet and across the top of my foot. It didn't help that I also managed to stub my foot on a shopping cart and have a screen door slam on the foot.
And to top it off, I managed to slam my elbow onto the arm rest in my car hard enough to hurt it. I can't lean on it or even lean on my hand. This morning I went to do my push-ups (did I mention I'm trying 100 push-ups?) and just whimpered.
I promise I won't be so whiny in my next post.
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Turning 30
My birthday was on Sunday. I didn't dread turning 30. But it was important for me to celebrate it. Because when I turned 29, we had just spent the first night home with X. So that birthday was a little overshadowed and hormonal. When I turned 28, I was in the middle of the misery and suffering of a horrible job. 27 was pretty good though.
So Chris came home from his most recent work trip early for Xander's birthday on Thursday. And we all went to the county fair on Friday. And Saturday was the big birthday party! Wow, so many people came. Chris and I both felt bad because there were so many people who came from out of town and we didn't get to talk with them as much as we'd like to.
I did make my own cake again. I am so out of practice. I forgot to brush off the cake crumbs and the crumbs mixed into the icing. I used pre-made sugar flowers on it, so that saved time. It tasted awesome though.
On Sunday we went on a family outing and ended up getting new cell phones and updating our plans to have unlimited texts. So now I have speakerphone and cameraphone and can assign pics to phone numbers so your face shows up when you call. I feel like I could be a super hero now.
And my brother Mark surprised me by showing up on Sunday. As great as the party was, it's fun when things actually happen on my birthday. He bought Xander Mega Blocks, like large Legos. But I'll probably be the one playing with them. And Xander will destroy whatever I create.
One last note about 30. I saw at the store a magazine with the cover advertising something like "Happy and Sexy at 20, 30 and 40" and my reaction was "Wow, I have to turn to an entirely different page to be happy and sexy now."
So Chris came home from his most recent work trip early for Xander's birthday on Thursday. And we all went to the county fair on Friday. And Saturday was the big birthday party! Wow, so many people came. Chris and I both felt bad because there were so many people who came from out of town and we didn't get to talk with them as much as we'd like to.
I did make my own cake again. I am so out of practice. I forgot to brush off the cake crumbs and the crumbs mixed into the icing. I used pre-made sugar flowers on it, so that saved time. It tasted awesome though.
On Sunday we went on a family outing and ended up getting new cell phones and updating our plans to have unlimited texts. So now I have speakerphone and cameraphone and can assign pics to phone numbers so your face shows up when you call. I feel like I could be a super hero now.
And my brother Mark surprised me by showing up on Sunday. As great as the party was, it's fun when things actually happen on my birthday. He bought Xander Mega Blocks, like large Legos. But I'll probably be the one playing with them. And Xander will destroy whatever I create.
One last note about 30. I saw at the store a magazine with the cover advertising something like "Happy and Sexy at 20, 30 and 40" and my reaction was "Wow, I have to turn to an entirely different page to be happy and sexy now."
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
No School Today...
...no school today....no school today cause it blowed....
Anyone living in Ohio knows that Ike swept through as a giant windstorm on Sunday. I heard the winds matched the Blizzard of '78 (or, you know, a hurricane) but without the snow (or rain). I actually had to drive one and a half hours in it and had to dodge around something in the road about once every mile.
Our electricity was out for about five hours on Sunday, but was back on at about 7 that evening. The flashing was peeling off of part of the roof and one small chunk of siding came off. So we got off pretty easy. Walking around the neighborhood yesterday was odd, seeing how many people were on their roofs to fix shingles. One house put up a tarp (and the owners had just moved in last week), another was missing siding on half of one side. A couple of trees went down, but since most trees are still young, most people were ok on that front.
In the town, half of the electricity is still off, including the grocery stores. I stopped at one yesterday and they were selling non-perishable foods. It's odd walking through with only half of the lights on, all of the meat gone, the frozen foods section roped off and plastic hanging over the dairy. Lots of big trees are down around town. Fortunately, I haven't heard of any injuries.
So no school yesterday or today. We already have off Thursday and Friday. So we may have only one day of school this week. Or possibly none. I may work for less than an hour each day, but I still love getting out of school.
I do have a lot of little things to pick up at stores, but I don't know what is open and what isn't. I think I'll chance it just to get out today.
Anyone living in Ohio knows that Ike swept through as a giant windstorm on Sunday. I heard the winds matched the Blizzard of '78 (or, you know, a hurricane) but without the snow (or rain). I actually had to drive one and a half hours in it and had to dodge around something in the road about once every mile.
Our electricity was out for about five hours on Sunday, but was back on at about 7 that evening. The flashing was peeling off of part of the roof and one small chunk of siding came off. So we got off pretty easy. Walking around the neighborhood yesterday was odd, seeing how many people were on their roofs to fix shingles. One house put up a tarp (and the owners had just moved in last week), another was missing siding on half of one side. A couple of trees went down, but since most trees are still young, most people were ok on that front.
In the town, half of the electricity is still off, including the grocery stores. I stopped at one yesterday and they were selling non-perishable foods. It's odd walking through with only half of the lights on, all of the meat gone, the frozen foods section roped off and plastic hanging over the dairy. Lots of big trees are down around town. Fortunately, I haven't heard of any injuries.
So no school yesterday or today. We already have off Thursday and Friday. So we may have only one day of school this week. Or possibly none. I may work for less than an hour each day, but I still love getting out of school.
I do have a lot of little things to pick up at stores, but I don't know what is open and what isn't. I think I'll chance it just to get out today.
Friday, September 05, 2008
Little Stories
Teaching is going really great. The students are definitely getting more comfortable with me as a teacher. They are great at doing homework and asking questions. And yesterday when I changed my mind about the homework assignment and gave them the night off they thanked me. Like honest and proper "Thank you Mrs. Hugs."
I'm still trying to adjust to the whole thing though. The class that uses the room before me keeps running a little bit later every day. I started five minutes late today. I'm just used to having bells to tell teachers to change classes.
But I had steam coming out of my ears today. I have asked twice about special schedules and how they might affect my class. And twice I was assured that my class is close to lunch time and won't be affected by assemblies and such. And twice this week I've had shortened classes. I asked about this and was told it was on the schedule. Yes, there are special events listed, but no one told me that my schedule would be affected! So now it is my responsibility to email in and ask every time I see something on the schedule. Which I can handle. I just wish I wasn't assured that my schedule wouldn't be changed just to have a ten minute class today.
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Yesterday I went to the library. Pretty much, I go to the library about twice a week. While I was checking out with one librarian (the cool one who is mid-twenties, wears nice button down sweaters and has tattoos covering her arms and chest) a man walked up to the librarian next to me. He said he wanted to check if he still had a library card and how he could get a new one. The librarian took his driver's license and looked him up. Yes, he did still have a card with them. However, he has two overdue books from '94. He could return them or pay the replacement cost.
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Our area had a special election in August over a couple of issues. One was a levy for senior citizens. The other was an income tax increase for a rec center. I'm happy to say I voted and Xander came along and smiled at the ladies working at the polls. I found out later that both issues passed, but the rec center issue was very close. A week later I read a statistic that said only 10% of the area actually voted that day. So about 5% of the local population decided that everyone needs to pay an extra hundred dollars or so each year.
So I made Chris register to vote.
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And finally, a fun link. I was actually rather proud that I know 11 of the answers. :)
Movie Poster Quiz
Have an awesome weekend!
I'm still trying to adjust to the whole thing though. The class that uses the room before me keeps running a little bit later every day. I started five minutes late today. I'm just used to having bells to tell teachers to change classes.
But I had steam coming out of my ears today. I have asked twice about special schedules and how they might affect my class. And twice I was assured that my class is close to lunch time and won't be affected by assemblies and such. And twice this week I've had shortened classes. I asked about this and was told it was on the schedule. Yes, there are special events listed, but no one told me that my schedule would be affected! So now it is my responsibility to email in and ask every time I see something on the schedule. Which I can handle. I just wish I wasn't assured that my schedule wouldn't be changed just to have a ten minute class today.
--------
Yesterday I went to the library. Pretty much, I go to the library about twice a week. While I was checking out with one librarian (the cool one who is mid-twenties, wears nice button down sweaters and has tattoos covering her arms and chest) a man walked up to the librarian next to me. He said he wanted to check if he still had a library card and how he could get a new one. The librarian took his driver's license and looked him up. Yes, he did still have a card with them. However, he has two overdue books from '94. He could return them or pay the replacement cost.
--------
Our area had a special election in August over a couple of issues. One was a levy for senior citizens. The other was an income tax increase for a rec center. I'm happy to say I voted and Xander came along and smiled at the ladies working at the polls. I found out later that both issues passed, but the rec center issue was very close. A week later I read a statistic that said only 10% of the area actually voted that day. So about 5% of the local population decided that everyone needs to pay an extra hundred dollars or so each year.
So I made Chris register to vote.
-------
And finally, a fun link. I was actually rather proud that I know 11 of the answers. :)
Movie Poster Quiz
Have an awesome weekend!
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
He lives in the WOODPILE behind the SHED
That title is much funnier if you imagine Chris Farley saying it.
Back in the day I mentioned rabbits acting funny. Dandy mentioned that she thought it was a mating thing. Lo and behold we have a cuddly baby bunny in our back yard. I think it's adorable. Chris wonders where the hawk is.
Today was my second day of teaching. So far, so good - all four students returned! I think the students will be great, it's the classroom that is the problem. There are two small chalkboards up front. One is nice, the other old and scratched up. The nice one is magnetic and the regular teacher used it by putting flashcards (with magnets glued to the back) all over it. She also placed the alphabet to hang over the old board. Soooooo, where am I supposed to write all of my fancy math equations (ok, we're actually only working on expressions right now) (and I wonder how many of you know the difference or care) (I know at least one person does)? So today I neatly took down half of the cards and placed them on the table.
This problem would be easily solved if they would only splurge on a SmartBoard. And if I worked full time, had a full class load and more students than I could count on one hand, well then I'd bring it up with the head honcho. For now, I guess I'll just make due.
PS My birthday is coming up and if anyone wins the lottery, you can buy me a SmartBoard. And a TI-84 Plus Silver in pink. Ha!
Back in the day I mentioned rabbits acting funny. Dandy mentioned that she thought it was a mating thing. Lo and behold we have a cuddly baby bunny in our back yard. I think it's adorable. Chris wonders where the hawk is.
Today was my second day of teaching. So far, so good - all four students returned! I think the students will be great, it's the classroom that is the problem. There are two small chalkboards up front. One is nice, the other old and scratched up. The nice one is magnetic and the regular teacher used it by putting flashcards (with magnets glued to the back) all over it. She also placed the alphabet to hang over the old board. Soooooo, where am I supposed to write all of my fancy math equations (ok, we're actually only working on expressions right now) (and I wonder how many of you know the difference or care) (I know at least one person does)? So today I neatly took down half of the cards and placed them on the table.This problem would be easily solved if they would only splurge on a SmartBoard. And if I worked full time, had a full class load and more students than I could count on one hand, well then I'd bring it up with the head honcho. For now, I guess I'll just make due.
PS My birthday is coming up and if anyone wins the lottery, you can buy me a SmartBoard. And a TI-84 Plus Silver in pink. Ha!
Monday, August 18, 2008
Christmas in August
I have three college friends that I try to get together with once a year. When we do get together we call it Christmas and it includes presents. It is getting rather hard to plan these events because I live in Ohio, B lives near D.C., R lives near Pittsburg and M lives in China. This year the event was at our house last weekend. R couldn't make it :( But M brought her boyfriend so I finally got to met him and Chris got some male companionship.
M and her guy showed up Friday night, so we all just hung out and watched the Olympics. It was more interesting watching it with an American who has lived in China for a few years and her Chinese boyfriend. I finally watched one of Phelps gold wins, and it just so happened to be the nail-biter finish.
Saturday we woke up and B arrived. We spent a few hours catching up (while Chris and M's guy dug up spirea in the yard) and we all went to lunch. Then we all walked around downtown, which I don't get to do very often. There are antiques, boutiques, a bookstore, pottery painting, coffee shop, etc. It was a gorgeous day out so when we arrived back home it was voted to play Wiffle Ball in the back yard, complete with ghost runners. And the girls did great until the boys pulled in a ringer from next door. It was the first time M's boy had played and I think we all had a good time, despite running in sandals.
Then was present time for the girls! (Xander was kind enough to loan me a 'Christmas tree')
I provided a thoroughly healthy dinner of beer-cheese fondue with bread and apples for dipping. Afterward Chris started the fire out back and we made s'mores. Yum! I woke up with a stomach ache in the middle of the night, but it was totally worth it.
B had to leave to get back to her guys (husband and baby), so M and I waited up to talk to R on the phone. It was great to hear from her but it was late and a long day, so I crashed that night.
Overall, I love this tradition. We don't do a great job of keeping in touch through out the year, but when we get together it's like no time has passed and I always have such a great time.
M and her guy showed up Friday night, so we all just hung out and watched the Olympics. It was more interesting watching it with an American who has lived in China for a few years and her Chinese boyfriend. I finally watched one of Phelps gold wins, and it just so happened to be the nail-biter finish.
Saturday we woke up and B arrived. We spent a few hours catching up (while Chris and M's guy dug up spirea in the yard) and we all went to lunch. Then we all walked around downtown, which I don't get to do very often. There are antiques, boutiques, a bookstore, pottery painting, coffee shop, etc. It was a gorgeous day out so when we arrived back home it was voted to play Wiffle Ball in the back yard, complete with ghost runners. And the girls did great until the boys pulled in a ringer from next door. It was the first time M's boy had played and I think we all had a good time, despite running in sandals.
Then was present time for the girls! (Xander was kind enough to loan me a 'Christmas tree')
I provided a thoroughly healthy dinner of beer-cheese fondue with bread and apples for dipping. Afterward Chris started the fire out back and we made s'mores. Yum! I woke up with a stomach ache in the middle of the night, but it was totally worth it.B had to leave to get back to her guys (husband and baby), so M and I waited up to talk to R on the phone. It was great to hear from her but it was late and a long day, so I crashed that night.
Overall, I love this tradition. We don't do a great job of keeping in touch through out the year, but when we get together it's like no time has passed and I always have such a great time.
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
Sew no bags
The past couple of weeks I've gotten to sew a few different things. I'm learning! I've even helped my sister and Ikkin fix dresses.
So. Any guesses what this is?
Why, it's a clothespin bag! Obviously! And (in my best Rod Roddy voice) to go with that new clothespin bag is this fabulous new umbrella clothesline!
And also included in this Showcase Showdown is this, as yet unhemmed, sewing machine cover!
Gotta love the creative use of scrap material, right?
I totally would have modeled a sequin dress while standing next to everything, but Xander doesn't understand how to take pictures yet (only how to pose for pictures).
So. Any guesses what this is?
Why, it's a clothespin bag! Obviously! And (in my best Rod Roddy voice) to go with that new clothespin bag is this fabulous new umbrella clothesline!
And also included in this Showcase Showdown is this, as yet unhemmed, sewing machine cover!
Gotta love the creative use of scrap material, right?
I totally would have modeled a sequin dress while standing next to everything, but Xander doesn't understand how to take pictures yet (only how to pose for pictures).
Wednesday, August 06, 2008
Emo Tree
We've had issues with what to do with the trees in front of our house. The one directly in front was nice, but it blocked the view of the entire house. The tree to the left I referred to as 'The Scary, Haunted House Tree.' They were both of the 'weeping' variety. They were both well established. What to do? We were thinking of chopping one or both. Fortunately, Chris talked to a knowledgeable neighbor who suggested how to trim both trees.
So this weekend Chris cleaned them up nicely. So now Scary, Haunted House Tree has become Sad, Tortured Tree. But it looks a lot better!
Chris found Sad, Tortured Tree was hiding a little secret. A perfect little nest was perched at the top of the trunk. Chris picked it up and showed it to me and set it back. It's still there after a big storm blew through here.
So this weekend Chris cleaned them up nicely. So now Scary, Haunted House Tree has become Sad, Tortured Tree. But it looks a lot better!
Chris found Sad, Tortured Tree was hiding a little secret. A perfect little nest was perched at the top of the trunk. Chris picked it up and showed it to me and set it back. It's still there after a big storm blew through here.
Sunday, August 03, 2008
Five Year Plan - Check!
Yesterday Chris and I celebrated our five year anniversary. Yowza! My sister was great enough to visit and babysit while we went out for dinner and a movie.
Dinner was at P.F. Chang's. It's a sign of our relationship that I was the one to suggest Chinese food as opposed to when we first met and I refused to try any. All thanks to that handsome man of mine. I had Orange Peel Chicken, which was fabulous though lacking in vegetables (another sign of Chris's influence). Chris tried Moo Goo Gai Pan, which even I thought tasted bland. I also tried a Pink Bellini. I was all excited because I have loved bellini drinks in the past. They would have champagne and pear juice and would be a nice frozen drink. I must not have read the description very well, or else took creative license with the description. It came out as a tall, narrow glass of pink liquid. It was a little sour but, wow, did it pack a punch.
So we sat and chatted. On our anniversary, Chris likes to think "What were we doing right now five years ago." We discussed the apartments we lived in since then (oh the stories from that first apartment). And we basically enjoyed being out on a Saturday night by our selves.
Afterwards we headed to the movies to see The Dark Knight. When we went to buy the tickets I saw that there were six different rooms showing it. One was the Imax. Four were normal. The last, which was at the time we wanted tickets, had the letters 'AV' after it on the listing. I was curious what it meant. So I asked (and Chris rolled his eyes). Hey, I wanted to make sure I wasn't walking into anything weird. Like the movie time reserved for people who like to come in costume.
Well, the girl behind the counter didn't know. Actually she 'didn't remember.' So she had to turn off her mike and turn to the guy behind her to ask. Sadly, she had to interrupt his air guitar routine. And the answer was, shockingly enough, 'Audio-Visual'. I was confused by this because it seemed to me that all of the movies would be both audio and visual. But I refrained from asking because Chris was giving me the hairy eyeball. So my running theory is that we saw the non-digital version of the movie. And, quite frankly, the digital version of Two-Face might have been too much for me.
Afterward we grabbed quick decaf drinks and headed home. And by golly, we didn't get home until after 11!
Dinner was at P.F. Chang's. It's a sign of our relationship that I was the one to suggest Chinese food as opposed to when we first met and I refused to try any. All thanks to that handsome man of mine. I had Orange Peel Chicken, which was fabulous though lacking in vegetables (another sign of Chris's influence). Chris tried Moo Goo Gai Pan, which even I thought tasted bland. I also tried a Pink Bellini. I was all excited because I have loved bellini drinks in the past. They would have champagne and pear juice and would be a nice frozen drink. I must not have read the description very well, or else took creative license with the description. It came out as a tall, narrow glass of pink liquid. It was a little sour but, wow, did it pack a punch.
So we sat and chatted. On our anniversary, Chris likes to think "What were we doing right now five years ago." We discussed the apartments we lived in since then (oh the stories from that first apartment). And we basically enjoyed being out on a Saturday night by our selves.
Afterwards we headed to the movies to see The Dark Knight. When we went to buy the tickets I saw that there were six different rooms showing it. One was the Imax. Four were normal. The last, which was at the time we wanted tickets, had the letters 'AV' after it on the listing. I was curious what it meant. So I asked (and Chris rolled his eyes). Hey, I wanted to make sure I wasn't walking into anything weird. Like the movie time reserved for people who like to come in costume.
Well, the girl behind the counter didn't know. Actually she 'didn't remember.' So she had to turn off her mike and turn to the guy behind her to ask. Sadly, she had to interrupt his air guitar routine. And the answer was, shockingly enough, 'Audio-Visual'. I was confused by this because it seemed to me that all of the movies would be both audio and visual. But I refrained from asking because Chris was giving me the hairy eyeball. So my running theory is that we saw the non-digital version of the movie. And, quite frankly, the digital version of Two-Face might have been too much for me.
Afterward we grabbed quick decaf drinks and headed home. And by golly, we didn't get home until after 11!
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
There's no singing here
If you know me, you should know I'm a pretty big fan of Joss Whedon. You know, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Angel, Firefly, comic books.... heck he even helped with Toy Story. Well, during the writers' strike he and some others wrote a small musical that was to be released on the internet called Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along Blog.
So I eagerly anticipated this. It was released in three acts during one week. Well, when I tried to watch it I was told "This video is not available at this site." Aggravation! I assumed that the site was so overwhelmed that it broke. A couple of days later I tried again. Same thing! Argh! Then we went camping for a weekend. I came back determined to figure it out. And they had already taken it down! Oh, I can buy it through iTunes (which I don't have). Or I can wait for it to come out on DVD. So guess what is going on my freakin' birthday wish list.
(I think I can get most of it on youtube, but not act by act. And I don't want to ruin the experience).
But Joss does have a new show coming out in the fall called Dollhouse. :)
ETA: HOLD THE PHONE - I just found out They have made Dr. Horrible available again here. And I fighting the urge to skip like a giddy little girl. Because I should be a good role model for Xander.
So I eagerly anticipated this. It was released in three acts during one week. Well, when I tried to watch it I was told "This video is not available at this site." Aggravation! I assumed that the site was so overwhelmed that it broke. A couple of days later I tried again. Same thing! Argh! Then we went camping for a weekend. I came back determined to figure it out. And they had already taken it down! Oh, I can buy it through iTunes (which I don't have). Or I can wait for it to come out on DVD. So guess what is going on my freakin' birthday wish list.
(I think I can get most of it on youtube, but not act by act. And I don't want to ruin the experience).
But Joss does have a new show coming out in the fall called Dollhouse. :)
ETA: HOLD THE PHONE - I just found out They have made Dr. Horrible available again here. And I fighting the urge to skip like a giddy little girl. Because I should be a good role model for Xander.
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
Nothing to see here
My life is at a fairly even keel right now, not much excitement. Well, there was the camping trip over the weekend, but you probably already read that on Xander's blog.
So. Camping: check. Job: check. Workouts: same as always. Knitting: working on a scarf. Bags: trying to get a small 'inventory' made to sell. Oh, I went to buy fabric today but there were inventory people everywhere. And Xander decided to see just how loud he could be. Not crying, just loud. So, random story time!
When I was in third grade I heard a story about superstitions. Apparently when you find an eyelash, if you close your eyes and blow it away you can make a wish. I don't know why I believed it, I'm not even sure I did believe it. But in my school picture that year I didn't have eyebrows. And by golly, not a wish came true.
And now you know.
Name the TV show, peeps!
So. Camping: check. Job: check. Workouts: same as always. Knitting: working on a scarf. Bags: trying to get a small 'inventory' made to sell. Oh, I went to buy fabric today but there were inventory people everywhere. And Xander decided to see just how loud he could be. Not crying, just loud. So, random story time!
When I was in third grade I heard a story about superstitions. Apparently when you find an eyelash, if you close your eyes and blow it away you can make a wish. I don't know why I believed it, I'm not even sure I did believe it. But in my school picture that year I didn't have eyebrows. And by golly, not a wish came true.
And now you know.
Name the TV show, peeps!
Monday, July 21, 2008
Employed
Well, I've signed the contract and I will be a working mom for the 2008-2009 school year.
The details: It is an 8th grade Algebra class with four students. It lasts for 45 minutes a day. And I will be paid for 3 hours a day. When the principal offered me the salary I had to fight to talk her down. It's not extravagant, but it is way more than I expected to be paid for teaching one class at a private school.
Basically, I am very lucky that this has come my way. I think it will work out great for everyone involved :) Oh, and I already have a new student to tutor during the next school year.
The details: It is an 8th grade Algebra class with four students. It lasts for 45 minutes a day. And I will be paid for 3 hours a day. When the principal offered me the salary I had to fight to talk her down. It's not extravagant, but it is way more than I expected to be paid for teaching one class at a private school.
Basically, I am very lucky that this has come my way. I think it will work out great for everyone involved :) Oh, and I already have a new student to tutor during the next school year.
Tuesday, July 08, 2008
What's old is new
You know how there are shows you used to watch a long time ago? And as your mind wanders and you think "I wonder where that person is now?" A couple of weeks ago I received answers to two of them.
1)
2)
Do you recognize either of them? Do you know what show either was on or is currently on? I'll wait for comments to see just how dorky I really am. Then I'll fill in the rest of the masses. And try not to cheat with IMDB, because I know you are tempted to.
I know you're thinking "He looks sooooo familiar...."
....
I knew Ikkin would recognize the first one. Yes, John Henson was the host of Talk Soup on E! back in the day. Now is a commentator on Wipeout, a new show on ABC. And while it's amusing to watch people splash around the commentators definitely make the show down right laughable.
Any takers on #2? Ikkin is on the right path with the show but not the name.
....
#2 is JD Roth. Way (way, way) back in the day he hosted a kids' game show called (I think) Play House. More recently he hosted a kids' Saturday morning version of Survivor called Endurance. While watching #1 on Wipeout there was a commercial for a new show that Mr. JD Roth will be hosting called Opportunity Knocks. Looks like Amnesia, but funnier.
1)
2)
Do you recognize either of them? Do you know what show either was on or is currently on? I'll wait for comments to see just how dorky I really am. Then I'll fill in the rest of the masses. And try not to cheat with IMDB, because I know you are tempted to.
I know you're thinking "He looks sooooo familiar...."
....
I knew Ikkin would recognize the first one. Yes, John Henson was the host of Talk Soup on E! back in the day. Now is a commentator on Wipeout, a new show on ABC. And while it's amusing to watch people splash around the commentators definitely make the show down right laughable.
Any takers on #2? Ikkin is on the right path with the show but not the name.
....
#2 is JD Roth. Way (way, way) back in the day he hosted a kids' game show called (I think) Play House. More recently he hosted a kids' Saturday morning version of Survivor called Endurance. While watching #1 on Wipeout there was a commercial for a new show that Mr. JD Roth will be hosting called Opportunity Knocks. Looks like Amnesia, but funnier.
Monday, June 30, 2008
Today's Announcements
1) I do believe I will be employed next year. There is nothing in writing, but I'm hired. I will be teaching one (ONE!) Algebra class to four (FOUR!) 8th graders. I will be paid hourly instead of salary and the principal even said she can get a list of parents who might be willing to babysit. I won't be required to go to most staff meetings and I may get a room so I have use of a SmartBoard.
It really works out best for me and the principal. I have a part-time, local job and she found a teacher who is licensed to teach Algebra and willing to work for 45 minutes a day.
2) I went to my first Major League Soccer game on Saturday with Chris and Ukie. We were given free tickets to the Columbus Crew and even managed to wrangle a babysitter. It was so much fun! It was a faster pace than baseball or football, not quite as violent as football or hockey. The stadium wasn't packed, but the fans who were there were all involved in the game. There was lots of cheering, a little booing. My favorite part is even when the Crew missed a goal, fans still applauded the effort. So many other places the players would get booed for missing. The hooligans had seats in the corner and during one corner kick, they threw streamers and smoke bombs on the opposing player.
The Crew won 2-1. I may have to knit myself a Crew scarf.
3) Chris found the poison ivy that caused his previous rash and then passed onto me. He removed the ivey, but seems to have contracted another rash. I am absolutely paranoid that I will catch it. I still have marks from the last one, they kind of look like bruise-scars.
4) Chris has finally talked me into selling the grocery-style bags I've been making. I don't think I've posted any pics of those yet. But they have been so handy for me and I keep getting compliments. Chris keeps bringing one into work to try to sell, but he brings the first one I made so it is ugly and messed up. I've been making more to give away to a few people just so I can practice.
I'll probably go through a 'green' church group to try to sell them first. Depending on how many I can whip out, I may open an Etsy shop.
That concludes today's announcements.
It really works out best for me and the principal. I have a part-time, local job and she found a teacher who is licensed to teach Algebra and willing to work for 45 minutes a day.
2) I went to my first Major League Soccer game on Saturday with Chris and Ukie. We were given free tickets to the Columbus Crew and even managed to wrangle a babysitter. It was so much fun! It was a faster pace than baseball or football, not quite as violent as football or hockey. The stadium wasn't packed, but the fans who were there were all involved in the game. There was lots of cheering, a little booing. My favorite part is even when the Crew missed a goal, fans still applauded the effort. So many other places the players would get booed for missing. The hooligans had seats in the corner and during one corner kick, they threw streamers and smoke bombs on the opposing player.
The Crew won 2-1. I may have to knit myself a Crew scarf.
3) Chris found the poison ivy that caused his previous rash and then passed onto me. He removed the ivey, but seems to have contracted another rash. I am absolutely paranoid that I will catch it. I still have marks from the last one, they kind of look like bruise-scars.
4) Chris has finally talked me into selling the grocery-style bags I've been making. I don't think I've posted any pics of those yet. But they have been so handy for me and I keep getting compliments. Chris keeps bringing one into work to try to sell, but he brings the first one I made so it is ugly and messed up. I've been making more to give away to a few people just so I can practice.
I'll probably go through a 'green' church group to try to sell them first. Depending on how many I can whip out, I may open an Etsy shop.
That concludes today's announcements.
Thursday, June 19, 2008
They might like me
I have an 'informal meeting' with the principal tomorrow about the Algebra position. Those were her words, not mine. I'm taking her up on the 'informal' part by bringing Xander. I cringe at the unprofessionalism (spell check says that isn't a word, but since when do I care what spell check thinks) of bringing a nine month old to an interview, Chris needs to work, it's too early in the day for the neighbor to babysit and also awkwardly overlaps with playgroup time so no one there can help.
I figure I can pitch it as 'my salary is going directly to his school savings for when he attends here.'
I figure I can pitch it as 'my salary is going directly to his school savings for when he attends here.'
Monday, June 16, 2008
A trip for ice cream
Yesterday, for Father's Day, we walked a couple of blocks to get ice cream. Along the way is the neighborhood pond. Here are our conversations.
On the way to get ice cream:
Hugs: Look, there is the mommy duck with her baby ducks! I want a closer look! *runs up to the fence*
Chicks: *rolls eyes*
On the way back home:
Hugs: Look, that isn't a duck down there swimming! What is it?
Chicks: It's a muskrat.
Hugs: Really? Cool! Wait, do we like muskrats? Are we pro-muskrat or anti-muskrat?
Chicks: I guess it depends. I mean it's one of God's creatures. But muskrats eat baby ducks.
Hugs: *shock*
On the way to get ice cream:
Hugs: Look, there is the mommy duck with her baby ducks! I want a closer look! *runs up to the fence*
Chicks: *rolls eyes*
On the way back home:
Hugs: Look, that isn't a duck down there swimming! What is it?
Chicks: It's a muskrat.
Hugs: Really? Cool! Wait, do we like muskrats? Are we pro-muskrat or anti-muskrat?
Chicks: I guess it depends. I mean it's one of God's creatures. But muskrats eat baby ducks.
Hugs: *shock*
Thursday, June 12, 2008
I forgot to tell you
That adoring husband of mine had abandoned me to go gallivanting across England again (at least that's the way I tell it to get sympathy). He's back now and earning his keep as is proper. But while he was gone I had to pick up his slack. That includes (but is not limited to):
a) Cleaning the cat litter. It's not hard. It's not even terribly gross. But it's two cats and one box, so it's often.
b) Mow the lawn. That's right, I took Rocky the reel lawn mower out for a spin. I was nervous because the last time I tried it I had to give up when about 1/3 of the back lawn was done. Granted I was 6 or so months pregnant and it was summer. It was so easy this time! I couldn't strap Xander to my back like Chris, but I had him next to the window so I could see and hear him. And away I went!
c) Taking out trash and recycling on trash day. Once again, not hard or gross.
d) I actually had to wash more dishes even with Chris gone because we only have four baby bottles and that was right when Xander was on formula.
I know there was something else impressive that I did, but now I forget.
Thanks again to Ikkin, Trisha and Lori for helping me to pass the time. Also to my neighbors (who don't actually know about this blog)(or maybe they do and I don't know they know) who helped me and Xander the day I had a fun migraine.
a) Cleaning the cat litter. It's not hard. It's not even terribly gross. But it's two cats and one box, so it's often.
b) Mow the lawn. That's right, I took Rocky the reel lawn mower out for a spin. I was nervous because the last time I tried it I had to give up when about 1/3 of the back lawn was done. Granted I was 6 or so months pregnant and it was summer. It was so easy this time! I couldn't strap Xander to my back like Chris, but I had him next to the window so I could see and hear him. And away I went!
c) Taking out trash and recycling on trash day. Once again, not hard or gross.
d) I actually had to wash more dishes even with Chris gone because we only have four baby bottles and that was right when Xander was on formula.
I know there was something else impressive that I did, but now I forget.
Thanks again to Ikkin, Trisha and Lori for helping me to pass the time. Also to my neighbors (who don't actually know about this blog)(or maybe they do and I don't know they know) who helped me and Xander the day I had a fun migraine.
Monday, June 09, 2008
Decisions, Decisions
This past year I stayed home instead of teaching, but did some tutoring on the side. But I miss teaching and getting out of the house. But when I teach I'm 'all-in' meaning I dedicate a lot of time to grading, making plans and projects and especially staying after school to work with students. That doesn't mesh too well with Xander's plans for me to wait on him hand and foot.
So the perfect plan would be a part time teaching position. But it would have to be local, because part time would not pay enough for daycare and gas prices. And of course, it would have to be math. That's not to much to ask, is it?
Apparently it's not. A local grade school (actually it's the school for the parish we belong to) is adding an 8th grade Algebra. A set of parents we know have been mentioning it all year because they are interested in me teaching it.
So I'm dusting off the resume and cover letter. No j0bs are actually listed on the website, but I'll just email them to the principal.
I'm surprisingly nervous about this. Maybe they won't be interested in me at all (why hire a teacher for one class, even if she has that special Algebra license?) or maybe they will love me (daycare? lesson planning? 8th graders??).
So the perfect plan would be a part time teaching position. But it would have to be local, because part time would not pay enough for daycare and gas prices. And of course, it would have to be math. That's not to much to ask, is it?
Apparently it's not. A local grade school (actually it's the school for the parish we belong to) is adding an 8th grade Algebra. A set of parents we know have been mentioning it all year because they are interested in me teaching it.
So I'm dusting off the resume and cover letter. No j0bs are actually listed on the website, but I'll just email them to the principal.
I'm surprisingly nervous about this. Maybe they won't be interested in me at all (why hire a teacher for one class, even if she has that special Algebra license?) or maybe they will love me (daycare? lesson planning? 8th graders??).
Tuesday, June 03, 2008
Botched
I love telling you about the crafts I do because it makes me feel like I'm doing something fun and important. In reality, I figure many of you tune in to read fun antidotes and when you see a craft story, you skip it. For those who don't skip it, you are either amused at my sudden shift to knitting and sewing or you are aghast at how badly I do at it. Either way, I've only told you about my successes, such as they are. Here's a few that haven't gone over so well.
I bought material to make a pillow and curtain for Xander's room almost a year ago. I finally finished them last week. The pillow is nothing great at all. The curtain is not wide enough. I knew it would be close, but after washing and trimming and the seams it has to hang flat and even then there is room on each side. Chris said to just make another one, but I don't want to spend more money on it.
I tried to reconstruct a pair of jeans into a skirt ala the Pink Shoe. Um, it's definitely a skirt. It took so much work that towards the end I was just making it up as I went. The edges are really ragged, which will only get worse as I wash it.
I tried my first skirt from a pattern. I knew that sizes on patterns were not 'vanity-sized', but I forgot that I still wasn't back to my pre-pregnancy size. So it's too small and I haven't bothered to seam the bottom of it. It is sitting down on my craft table mocking me. I should just finish it and give it away already.
But here is one new project that did turn out well. While shopping I found a remnant that I liked, so I bought it (I've got to be careful not to become one of those people). I figured I could at least make another bag. But it was too pretty. So while sitting at the table pondering I noticed a water ring forming around my glass and thought about how Chris likes to put coasters on the table to stop the water rings but coasters on the dining room table drive me nuts. Oh, a table cloth! Or a table runner! But there wasn't enough material. So... place mats! They aren't normal size and have no backing or second layer, so not the greatest place mats. But I like them and when I'm done they will fit nicely around the table. Plus, I learned to miter corners and get to practice stitching straight lines. The fun doesn't stop around here!
Last Saturday was gorgeous, so Xander and I went window shopping with Ikkin. We found these fun aprons called Kitsch'n Glam that are awesome. They are much more fun in real life than on the website. That is totally something I would love to do.
I bought material to make a pillow and curtain for Xander's room almost a year ago. I finally finished them last week. The pillow is nothing great at all. The curtain is not wide enough. I knew it would be close, but after washing and trimming and the seams it has to hang flat and even then there is room on each side. Chris said to just make another one, but I don't want to spend more money on it.
I tried to reconstruct a pair of jeans into a skirt ala the Pink Shoe. Um, it's definitely a skirt. It took so much work that towards the end I was just making it up as I went. The edges are really ragged, which will only get worse as I wash it.
I tried my first skirt from a pattern. I knew that sizes on patterns were not 'vanity-sized', but I forgot that I still wasn't back to my pre-pregnancy size. So it's too small and I haven't bothered to seam the bottom of it. It is sitting down on my craft table mocking me. I should just finish it and give it away already.
But here is one new project that did turn out well. While shopping I found a remnant that I liked, so I bought it (I've got to be careful not to become one of those people). I figured I could at least make another bag. But it was too pretty. So while sitting at the table pondering I noticed a water ring forming around my glass and thought about how Chris likes to put coasters on the table to stop the water rings but coasters on the dining room table drive me nuts. Oh, a table cloth! Or a table runner! But there wasn't enough material. So... place mats! They aren't normal size and have no backing or second layer, so not the greatest place mats. But I like them and when I'm done they will fit nicely around the table. Plus, I learned to miter corners and get to practice stitching straight lines. The fun doesn't stop around here!
Last Saturday was gorgeous, so Xander and I went window shopping with Ikkin. We found these fun aprons called Kitsch'n Glam that are awesome. They are much more fun in real life than on the website. That is totally something I would love to do.
Thursday, May 29, 2008
Success!(es!)
The end of May means that school is winding down which in turn means the end of tutoring season. The totals for this year are roughly a dozen calls of interest, three students who did come for geometry help, one student who stopped coming without explanation or even calling to cancel (can you feel the bitterness) and two students who stuck it out till the end.
One of those students has been struggling to pass but received good grades the last couple of quizzes. Yeah! On her last day, she and her mother showed up with these:
They like me, they really like me.
-=-=-=-=-=-
I mentioned a while ago that the Women's Organization at church asked me to teach how to make a rosary. That was last night and it went pretty well.
I had to order the cord myself, as well as measure, cut and melt the ends. And I had to bring Xander along, but he sat in his stroller and chuckled for most of it.
There were 10 women there, which is a good size when you are walking around showing how to wrap a cord around your finger to make a pretty knot. As with any class, some caught onto it and others struggled. But everyone stayed in a good mood and there were two women who actually finished their rosaries.
Overall, I think it was a good experience. Some were talking about having a 'craft night' for the Women's group and possibly making the rosaries for other organizations. I will be surprised but thrilled if that happened. I'll let you know.
One of those students has been struggling to pass but received good grades the last couple of quizzes. Yeah! On her last day, she and her mother showed up with these:
They like me, they really like me.
-=-=-=-=-=-
I mentioned a while ago that the Women's Organization at church asked me to teach how to make a rosary. That was last night and it went pretty well.
I had to order the cord myself, as well as measure, cut and melt the ends. And I had to bring Xander along, but he sat in his stroller and chuckled for most of it.
There were 10 women there, which is a good size when you are walking around showing how to wrap a cord around your finger to make a pretty knot. As with any class, some caught onto it and others struggled. But everyone stayed in a good mood and there were two women who actually finished their rosaries.
Overall, I think it was a good experience. Some were talking about having a 'craft night' for the Women's group and possibly making the rosaries for other organizations. I will be surprised but thrilled if that happened. I'll let you know.
Friday, May 23, 2008
Proof that boys have cooties
So Chris mentioned that he had poison ivy. It was almost two weeks ago that if first appeared after he had worked in the yard. Within a week he had passed it on to me.
Last week I found a spot of it on my waist. Hey, I've had poison ivy before, no problem, I can tough it out. This week it has spread down my leg and across my back. Suddenly it is insanely itchy. I mean, last night spent an hour rolling and trying not to scratch. And it is red and swollen and ugly.
While tempted to try bleach, I instead went to the doctor. It was confirmed what I suspected - not poison ivy but some kind of contact dermatitis. And the reason that it is just now getting bad is because I was on a steroid for my toothache (did I mention that I am not getting a root canal - huzzah!) but when that prescription ran out this rash flared up with a vengeance.
So now I have more steroids to take. The problem is they are much stronger and Xander can't nurse while I'm taking them. So within the next week you'll find some stories over on his blog about how we are handling the abrupt weaning. This should be interesting.
Last week I found a spot of it on my waist. Hey, I've had poison ivy before, no problem, I can tough it out. This week it has spread down my leg and across my back. Suddenly it is insanely itchy. I mean, last night spent an hour rolling and trying not to scratch. And it is red and swollen and ugly.
While tempted to try bleach, I instead went to the doctor. It was confirmed what I suspected - not poison ivy but some kind of contact dermatitis. And the reason that it is just now getting bad is because I was on a steroid for my toothache (did I mention that I am not getting a root canal - huzzah!) but when that prescription ran out this rash flared up with a vengeance.
So now I have more steroids to take. The problem is they are much stronger and Xander can't nurse while I'm taking them. So within the next week you'll find some stories over on his blog about how we are handling the abrupt weaning. This should be interesting.
Monday, May 19, 2008
Another Weekend, Another Post
Once again, it turned into a pretty decent weekend.
On Friday night we went to eat at a steakhouse with my youngest brother and his girlfriend. Xander was a little fussy with all of the noise and people, but I've finally mastered holding a baby and eating at the same time. After, Lee came back to our place for a fun game of Clue and we watched the second Fantastic Four movie. I don't recommend playing Clue and watching a movie at the same time, but we made it happen.
Chris went to the Rock on the Range concert on Saturday, so Xander and I hung around the house like any ole day. I did work on replanting some flowers I'd received for Mother's Day. Here are the gerber daises and geraniums.
And here are the azaleas that bloomed this week. They are such a gorgeous, vibrant color I just had to share.
I did some other chores, played with Xander and decided to treat myself with trying a new dessert. I made brownie pudding. It doesn't look like much, but it tastes amazing with mint chocolate chip ice cream.
I was carrying Xander while taking pictures. At one point he realized that I wasn't taking pictures of him, so he tried to remedy that.
On Sunday we spent a couple of hours walking around the local arts festival. I checked out the totes and bags being sold there. Pricey, but oh so much nicer than the ones I make. Plus I'd need to get tables and such for a booth. So I don't think I'll be going into business any time soon.
But it was fun just walking around with anther couple and their baby. We checked out some of the small shops downtown, saw the pet parade (they mean dog parade, there were no other animals in sight) and ate lunch while watching the local dance company perform. It was all very Gilmore-Girls-esque.
On Friday night we went to eat at a steakhouse with my youngest brother and his girlfriend. Xander was a little fussy with all of the noise and people, but I've finally mastered holding a baby and eating at the same time. After, Lee came back to our place for a fun game of Clue and we watched the second Fantastic Four movie. I don't recommend playing Clue and watching a movie at the same time, but we made it happen.
Chris went to the Rock on the Range concert on Saturday, so Xander and I hung around the house like any ole day. I did work on replanting some flowers I'd received for Mother's Day. Here are the gerber daises and geraniums.
And here are the azaleas that bloomed this week. They are such a gorgeous, vibrant color I just had to share.
I did some other chores, played with Xander and decided to treat myself with trying a new dessert. I made brownie pudding. It doesn't look like much, but it tastes amazing with mint chocolate chip ice cream.
I was carrying Xander while taking pictures. At one point he realized that I wasn't taking pictures of him, so he tried to remedy that.
On Sunday we spent a couple of hours walking around the local arts festival. I checked out the totes and bags being sold there. Pricey, but oh so much nicer than the ones I make. Plus I'd need to get tables and such for a booth. So I don't think I'll be going into business any time soon.
But it was fun just walking around with anther couple and their baby. We checked out some of the small shops downtown, saw the pet parade (they mean dog parade, there were no other animals in sight) and ate lunch while watching the local dance company perform. It was all very Gilmore-Girls-esque.
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
My first Mother's Day
What a great weekend.
On Friday, Chris and Xander took me to get my Mother's Day gift. It was 27 Dresses. Then we picked up pizza from a new place. It was actually good pizza with yummy crust. We have had a hard time finding any good local pizza. The place isn't that close to us, but we can save it for special occasions.
Saturday was beautiful, so it was yard day. Chris and Xander mowed and weeded and such. I bought a few marigolds, white petunias and vintas. I couldn't find impatiens, which I usually like. Then we had Game Night! It was a small crowd but loads of fun, I don't think we've ever had such a hard core game of SceneIt.
Sunday I received several phone calls and texts for Mother's Day, which made me feel very special. We packed up and went to visit my family for the day. Good thing too, there was apparently a huge storm here with a tornado. It was really great to see everyone and to just hang out (and let other people hold Xander).
I've gone on a sewing tear these past weeks. I finished making a pair of jeans into a skirt. I made three new bags. Two are based off of grocery bags and a tutorial I found online. They fold up so I can put them in my bag and bring them to stores to use. It's the first time I've actually had requests to make a couple, albeit 'more manly' or 'less bright'. Chris still wants me to make some to sell, but I don't know where to sell except the craft show at the church in the fall.
On Friday, Chris and Xander took me to get my Mother's Day gift. It was 27 Dresses. Then we picked up pizza from a new place. It was actually good pizza with yummy crust. We have had a hard time finding any good local pizza. The place isn't that close to us, but we can save it for special occasions.
Saturday was beautiful, so it was yard day. Chris and Xander mowed and weeded and such. I bought a few marigolds, white petunias and vintas. I couldn't find impatiens, which I usually like. Then we had Game Night! It was a small crowd but loads of fun, I don't think we've ever had such a hard core game of SceneIt.
Sunday I received several phone calls and texts for Mother's Day, which made me feel very special. We packed up and went to visit my family for the day. Good thing too, there was apparently a huge storm here with a tornado. It was really great to see everyone and to just hang out (and let other people hold Xander).
I've gone on a sewing tear these past weeks. I finished making a pair of jeans into a skirt. I made three new bags. Two are based off of grocery bags and a tutorial I found online. They fold up so I can put them in my bag and bring them to stores to use. It's the first time I've actually had requests to make a couple, albeit 'more manly' or 'less bright'. Chris still wants me to make some to sell, but I don't know where to sell except the craft show at the church in the fall.
Wednesday, May 07, 2008
If only I could make a cozy for my tooth
About a week and a half ago I partook of ice cream cake and have been paying for it ever since. My teeth hurt. The right half of my mouth felt like it was soaking in ice filled water. Oragel wasn't doing much, but the Arm and Hammer toothpaste helped. Now the pain is mostly gone during the day, but I still wake up with it at night.
So today I managed to finagle an appointment at the dentist. The diagnosis is that one molar in the back is the culprit. The dentist has referred me to a specialist to get a root canal. Then I'll return to the dentist for a crown.
There goes our economic stimulus money. And now I feel old.
Chris thinks I should just get the tooth pulled.
In other news, I gave Chris part of his birthday gift early.
I knit this beer cozy from a pattern in a book called "Knitting with Balls." It required I go to an actual yarn store to buy special yarn with elastic in it. Yeah, I'm one of those people now. It was knitted in the round and turned out pretty snazzy. So snazzy , in fact, that I knitted one for Ukie for his birthday too. But Ukie is special and I tried cables for the first time on his.
So today I managed to finagle an appointment at the dentist. The diagnosis is that one molar in the back is the culprit. The dentist has referred me to a specialist to get a root canal. Then I'll return to the dentist for a crown.
There goes our economic stimulus money. And now I feel old.
Chris thinks I should just get the tooth pulled.
In other news, I gave Chris part of his birthday gift early.
I knit this beer cozy from a pattern in a book called "Knitting with Balls." It required I go to an actual yarn store to buy special yarn with elastic in it. Yeah, I'm one of those people now. It was knitted in the round and turned out pretty snazzy. So snazzy , in fact, that I knitted one for Ukie for his birthday too. But Ukie is special and I tried cables for the first time on his.
Friday, May 02, 2008
Morning of the Lepus
Last Sunday, as we were getting ready for church, I saw two little bunnies enjoying our back yard. When suddenly one bunny turned and charged full speed at the second bunny! Then the second bunny leaped high into the air over the first one as it rocketed towards him! That second bunny easily reached three feet high.
They proceeded to do this twice more. Crazy!
Is this some sort of display of super-bunny-powers? Or the bunny version of bull fighting? Or were they just training to jump the fence into our new garden?
I was going to do a screen cap from Night of the Lepus, but I couldn't find a decent one. So in a moment of nostalgia, here is a screen cap for you to guess.
They proceeded to do this twice more. Crazy!
Is this some sort of display of super-bunny-powers? Or the bunny version of bull fighting? Or were they just training to jump the fence into our new garden?
I was going to do a screen cap from Night of the Lepus, but I couldn't find a decent one. So in a moment of nostalgia, here is a screen cap for you to guess.
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Williamsburg or Bust
We went to Williamsburg, Virginia for our vacation this year. People keep asking us "How did you pick that?" Well, our criteria was that it had to be within a days drive, no beaches (I will not go to a beach during spring break season) and it had to be south of us in the hopes it would be warmer. Williamsburg fit that and it included history and we thought there would be parks nearby.
Sunday
We get up and leave at 3 am so that X would sleep on the way. We get there around 2. We stayed at Springhill Suites, which I really liked because it had a fridge, microwave and a little area to set up X's Pack'n'Play. We had Xander sleep in the P'n'P a couple of nights before we left so he was used to it and I do think that helped on the trip. We puttered around and drove around a little and ate barbecue at Red Hot and Blue, which we found disappointing.
For those contemplating having children, observe the next photo. Last year when Chris and I went to Charleston, we only had those bottom two bags. The rest is for Xander. Seriously.
Monday
We went to Colonial Williamsburg. Dang, I didn't realize how expensive it would be. And you can't take strollers into any buildings, so Chris had to carry Xander in the Snuggli all day. And hold X's head up when he fell asleep. We walked around to some of the businesses and heard about how things were done back in the day. Lunch was at The Cheese Shop, which was tasty, and I found out I do like brie. It drizzled all day and it turned into a downpour in the afternoon, so we headed back to the hotel. Dinner was at a steakhouse, but X was a putz so we didn't get to enjoy it.
Tuesday
It was still rainy and the forecast wasn't great, so we made it a museum day. We went to the Virginia Living Museum first. It had a nice boardwalk to see animals they had and some good indoor exhibits that covered different areas of Virginia. But it was a big kids place and there were lots of classes there, at least one set that was out of control.
Then we went to the Hampton Roads Naval Museum which included the USS Wisconsin. It was nicely laid out and seeing the Wisconsin makes you realize just how big those suckers are.
And then we went across the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel. That was one hefty toll road, but pretty impressive to see. On the other side we stopped and introduced X to the Chesapeake Bay (since we didn't have easy access to the Atlantic Ocean at that point). Xander did not like the Bay, but did like the sand.
Wednesday
The weather finally brightened up, so we headed into Colonial Williamsburg for a historic garden tour. We dallied around again looking at different shops and the Capitol building. We had to skip a couple of things because of long lines and Xander's fussiness level, but it was neat just to walk around and look at things. Oh, and we had pizza at Sal's that night that was awesome.
Thursday
Thursday was lovely, as our last day it was an odds-and-ends kind of day. We went to the world's largest Yankee Candle where it snowed in the Christmas section. We went to Williamsburg Pottery, but that was disappointing. We went to Jamestown, but it seemed to be like Williamsburg and we didn't want to pay again. Then we went to Yorktown and walked along the riverwalk for a while. We ended with Mexican food for dinner and called it a night.
The End!
(Look, a picutre with me!)
Sunday
We get up and leave at 3 am so that X would sleep on the way. We get there around 2. We stayed at Springhill Suites, which I really liked because it had a fridge, microwave and a little area to set up X's Pack'n'Play. We had Xander sleep in the P'n'P a couple of nights before we left so he was used to it and I do think that helped on the trip. We puttered around and drove around a little and ate barbecue at Red Hot and Blue, which we found disappointing.
For those contemplating having children, observe the next photo. Last year when Chris and I went to Charleston, we only had those bottom two bags. The rest is for Xander. Seriously.
Monday
We went to Colonial Williamsburg. Dang, I didn't realize how expensive it would be. And you can't take strollers into any buildings, so Chris had to carry Xander in the Snuggli all day. And hold X's head up when he fell asleep. We walked around to some of the businesses and heard about how things were done back in the day. Lunch was at The Cheese Shop, which was tasty, and I found out I do like brie. It drizzled all day and it turned into a downpour in the afternoon, so we headed back to the hotel. Dinner was at a steakhouse, but X was a putz so we didn't get to enjoy it.
Tuesday
It was still rainy and the forecast wasn't great, so we made it a museum day. We went to the Virginia Living Museum first. It had a nice boardwalk to see animals they had and some good indoor exhibits that covered different areas of Virginia. But it was a big kids place and there were lots of classes there, at least one set that was out of control.
Then we went to the Hampton Roads Naval Museum which included the USS Wisconsin. It was nicely laid out and seeing the Wisconsin makes you realize just how big those suckers are.
And then we went across the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel. That was one hefty toll road, but pretty impressive to see. On the other side we stopped and introduced X to the Chesapeake Bay (since we didn't have easy access to the Atlantic Ocean at that point). Xander did not like the Bay, but did like the sand.
Wednesday
The weather finally brightened up, so we headed into Colonial Williamsburg for a historic garden tour. We dallied around again looking at different shops and the Capitol building. We had to skip a couple of things because of long lines and Xander's fussiness level, but it was neat just to walk around and look at things. Oh, and we had pizza at Sal's that night that was awesome.
Thursday
Thursday was lovely, as our last day it was an odds-and-ends kind of day. We went to the world's largest Yankee Candle where it snowed in the Christmas section. We went to Williamsburg Pottery, but that was disappointing. We went to Jamestown, but it seemed to be like Williamsburg and we didn't want to pay again. Then we went to Yorktown and walked along the riverwalk for a while. We ended with Mexican food for dinner and called it a night.
The End!
(Look, a picutre with me!)
Saturday, April 26, 2008
Returning from Vacation
Chris, Xander and I spent last week in colonial Williamsburg. It was a good trip, considering we traveling with a teething seven month old. I think Chris is writing up a review of the trip. He sent out some pics, so if you didn't get them and would like to see them drop us a line.
We returned yesterday (Friday) at about 2 in the afternoon, so we had the rest of the day to unpack and unwind. We were getting ready for bed last night when I went in our bathroom and froze. I could hear something. It was coming from either in the shower or possibly the vent above it. And it sounded very much like when we had a mouse in the dryer last year.
"Chris, get in here" I whispered loudly (Xander was asleep, even a mouse in the shower doesn't necessitate waking up the boy).
I listen and hear the scuttling some more. I notice something light and something dark through the door.
"Chris, get in here now" I yelled/whispered. He bolts in and I told him to listen to the noise. He climbs up on the toilet and looks over the door. And starts laughing.
Somehow a hole developed in my can of shaving cream and it was fizzling all over the shower. Cream everywhere. But it did smell absolutely lovely, raspberry something or other.
We returned yesterday (Friday) at about 2 in the afternoon, so we had the rest of the day to unpack and unwind. We were getting ready for bed last night when I went in our bathroom and froze. I could hear something. It was coming from either in the shower or possibly the vent above it. And it sounded very much like when we had a mouse in the dryer last year.
"Chris, get in here" I whispered loudly (Xander was asleep, even a mouse in the shower doesn't necessitate waking up the boy).
I listen and hear the scuttling some more. I notice something light and something dark through the door.
"Chris, get in here now" I yelled/whispered. He bolts in and I told him to listen to the noise. He climbs up on the toilet and looks over the door. And starts laughing.
Somehow a hole developed in my can of shaving cream and it was fizzling all over the shower. Cream everywhere. But it did smell absolutely lovely, raspberry something or other.
Monday, April 14, 2008
Back in the slow lane
I'm not a big runner, but my studly husband and I had a routine of going to the park on Saturday mornings for a run. That came to a screeching halt last January after a certain test came up positive. I know it's not bad to run while pregnant, but my first case of morning sickness came after one of those runs.
So I finally caved and bought a fancy pants Enell sports bra since I found some recommendations for it (I did NOT know Oprah endorsed it until I went to the store). Saturday morning Chris and I got up to go on his neighborhood run with Xander in the fancy pants jogging stroller. I politely asked Chris to go on ahead with Xander. I figured it would be better to run by myself for this first outing.
I was slow, I hurt and my lungs felt like little balloons expanding too much but I ran! According to MapMyRun.com I made it 1.5 miles. Since I didn't think I'd make it further than the end of the block, I am rather impressed with myself.
Hmm, other news. I'm knitting Chris a birthday present. I don't have any more totes to make, but have some material left to make myself another for library books. I made Waikiki Meatballs last week and they were awesome. I made burritos last night and Chris loved them. The ducks from the neighborhood pond are hanging out in our area a lot so I'm guessing they will be nesting soon.
Oh, and we woke up to find a German Shepard in the neighbor's yard. They have two dogs and this was not one of them. We were very confused and thought maybe the dog somehow jumped into their yard. I hope I wasn't too desperate-housewife, but I called one of the neighbors at work to let him know it was there. He actually found the dog this morning wandering around without a collar. So he already called around to local authorities and let them know he had the dog. He was very apologetic about the yipping the shepard was making, I just reiterated I was just concerned.
And finally, here is a video clip for you to guess. Of course at the end there are alternative videos and it tells you what show it is from, so that sucks the fun out of it. But does it ever make me smile!
So I finally caved and bought a fancy pants Enell sports bra since I found some recommendations for it (I did NOT know Oprah endorsed it until I went to the store). Saturday morning Chris and I got up to go on his neighborhood run with Xander in the fancy pants jogging stroller. I politely asked Chris to go on ahead with Xander. I figured it would be better to run by myself for this first outing.
I was slow, I hurt and my lungs felt like little balloons expanding too much but I ran! According to MapMyRun.com I made it 1.5 miles. Since I didn't think I'd make it further than the end of the block, I am rather impressed with myself.
Hmm, other news. I'm knitting Chris a birthday present. I don't have any more totes to make, but have some material left to make myself another for library books. I made Waikiki Meatballs last week and they were awesome. I made burritos last night and Chris loved them. The ducks from the neighborhood pond are hanging out in our area a lot so I'm guessing they will be nesting soon.
Oh, and we woke up to find a German Shepard in the neighbor's yard. They have two dogs and this was not one of them. We were very confused and thought maybe the dog somehow jumped into their yard. I hope I wasn't too desperate-housewife, but I called one of the neighbors at work to let him know it was there. He actually found the dog this morning wandering around without a collar. So he already called around to local authorities and let them know he had the dog. He was very apologetic about the yipping the shepard was making, I just reiterated I was just concerned.
And finally, here is a video clip for you to guess. Of course at the end there are alternative videos and it tells you what show it is from, so that sucks the fun out of it. But does it ever make me smile!
Tuesday, April 08, 2008
Grateful
A great big THANK YOU to everyone who helped to entertain me during Chris's absence. It was a lucky coincidence that Chris's trip to England coincided with several spring breaks, so the visits during the week were really appreciated. The number of people who called to check on me and visit or have dinner was really touching. And of course Xander appreciated getting attention from everyone too.
Chris will be going again, so if you are sick of me you should be prepared to duck and cover. If you'd like to be added to my list of people-to-bug-for-adult-attention, just drop me a line :)
Chris will be going again, so if you are sick of me you should be prepared to duck and cover. If you'd like to be added to my list of people-to-bug-for-adult-attention, just drop me a line :)
Monday, March 31, 2008
How to get rid of cold weather
I've been keeping pretty busy lately. Like I said in the baby blog, I went to visit my sister and brother on Wednesday. Thursday Dandy visited and we had a marvelous time at Target. Friday Sarah visited and we went on the Quest for a Jumperoo.
Other than that, I've been schmoozing around the house working on this and that. I finally finished knitting the hat for Chris. Just in time for the 60 degree weather.
Quite frankly I'm surprised it came out so well. There are little mess-ups in it that I know only I can see and a few obvious mess-ups. It's supposed to have the letters PJ (for Pearl Jam) on the side in seed stitch, but it didn't work out so well. But for knitting in the round for the first time, it turned out to be a wearable hat.
Chris is at work, so Xander offered to model for me. Keep in mind that Chris's melon is about 10 times as big as Xander's, especially when you include his hair.
Other than that, I've been schmoozing around the house working on this and that. I finally finished knitting the hat for Chris. Just in time for the 60 degree weather.
Quite frankly I'm surprised it came out so well. There are little mess-ups in it that I know only I can see and a few obvious mess-ups. It's supposed to have the letters PJ (for Pearl Jam) on the side in seed stitch, but it didn't work out so well. But for knitting in the round for the first time, it turned out to be a wearable hat.
Chris is at work, so Xander offered to model for me. Keep in mind that Chris's melon is about 10 times as big as Xander's, especially when you include his hair.
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Returning to Rosaries
Last week I received an email from the church's womens group asking me to teach rosary making at one of the upcoming meetings. Yes, I'd love to! This is requiring me to contact the leader of the group in our old parish, order supplies and plan a lesson. I'm surprisingly excited about this.
In other news, I guess I've lost a tutoring student. He hasn't shown up for two weeks and his friend says she doesn't think he will be continuing. Hey, thanks for calling me to let me know so I don't sit around waiting for you. The first student I had is doing great and is working hard to get a B+. The other student that is still coming is struggling so I'm changing from one session of one hour each week to two sessions of a half hour each week. I hope it helps.
And finally, Chris and I installed our TV converter last night. In the process of Chris lifting the TV so I could switch the antenna and converter wires, I jabbed my thigh into a sharp, pointy ledge on the entertainment center. As I exclaim "oh, fudge" and fall to the floor clutching my leg, Chris looks on and says "gee, I'll bet that hurts." He nearly lost an eye. And I'll bet that would have hurt. But at least the converter box works great.
In other news, I guess I've lost a tutoring student. He hasn't shown up for two weeks and his friend says she doesn't think he will be continuing. Hey, thanks for calling me to let me know so I don't sit around waiting for you. The first student I had is doing great and is working hard to get a B+. The other student that is still coming is struggling so I'm changing from one session of one hour each week to two sessions of a half hour each week. I hope it helps.
And finally, Chris and I installed our TV converter last night. In the process of Chris lifting the TV so I could switch the antenna and converter wires, I jabbed my thigh into a sharp, pointy ledge on the entertainment center. As I exclaim "oh, fudge" and fall to the floor clutching my leg, Chris looks on and says "gee, I'll bet that hurts." He nearly lost an eye. And I'll bet that would have hurt. But at least the converter box works great.
Monday, March 17, 2008
I've gone tote mad
So since the only thing I know how to sew is totes, I'm practicing by making them for my friends. So here is Ikkin's. It's like the one I originally made, but different material than mine. I really liked the lining because (and you can't really see it in the pic) it is cream with shiny cream dots on it, which nicely complements the olive bag with shiny metal circles sewn on it.
And here's the one I made for Sarah. It's a different pattern that I did all by myself (yeah me) and is totally cute. It has a pocket on the outside on both the front and the back. I also adapted the pattern to make the bag taller.
Chris has done a good job of acting impressed with each one (I have one more done, but no pics until I can give it to the recipient) and thinks I should make some to sell. I think a little more practice is in order first to make sure I can do things like line up the seams.
Overall I think I like sewing a little better than knitting, but I'm not giving up on the knitting :)
And here's the one I made for Sarah. It's a different pattern that I did all by myself (yeah me) and is totally cute. It has a pocket on the outside on both the front and the back. I also adapted the pattern to make the bag taller.
Chris has done a good job of acting impressed with each one (I have one more done, but no pics until I can give it to the recipient) and thinks I should make some to sell. I think a little more practice is in order first to make sure I can do things like line up the seams.
Overall I think I like sewing a little better than knitting, but I'm not giving up on the knitting :)
Thursday, March 13, 2008
Random conversation
To set the scene, my inspiring hubby and I try to have some sort of deep and/or meaningful conversation during the day. It usually ends up right before we go to bed.
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Hugs (trying to be imaginative): So, if you were an element on the periodic table what would you be?
Chicks: Xenon
Hugs: Ok. Why?
Chicks: Because it sounds cool. And it's a gas. And it's noble! It's a noble gas.
Hugs (anticipating the same question and wanting to avoid revealing my lack of periodic table knowledge): You know, Chuck Norris destroyed the periodic table because he only recognizes the element of surprise.
Chicks: *mouth gaps a little at the shock of Xenon no longer existing*
--------------
We bought a new camera last night, so prepare to be inundated with pictures of Xander and the daffodils that may or may not have survived the blizzard.
--------------
Hugs (trying to be imaginative): So, if you were an element on the periodic table what would you be?
Chicks: Xenon
Hugs: Ok. Why?
Chicks: Because it sounds cool. And it's a gas. And it's noble! It's a noble gas.
Hugs (anticipating the same question and wanting to avoid revealing my lack of periodic table knowledge): You know, Chuck Norris destroyed the periodic table because he only recognizes the element of surprise.
Chicks: *mouth gaps a little at the shock of Xenon no longer existing*
--------------
We bought a new camera last night, so prepare to be inundated with pictures of Xander and the daffodils that may or may not have survived the blizzard.
Tuesday, March 04, 2008
Passing the Time
Min is up to her old tricks.
And here are a couple of amusing things that I have found.
Frozen in Grand Central Station - this would freak me out to no end if it happened while I was there. I would probably believe it was a conspiracy theory involving a mutant cover-up.
Stuff White People Like
- some of this is not true at all for the people I know, but some are dead on for me (why yes, a Kitchenaid stand mixer would be my holy grail, preferably in clementine) and some I see in the general population (water bottles for everyone) and some are just amusing (standing still at concerts).
And here are a couple of amusing things that I have found.Frozen in Grand Central Station - this would freak me out to no end if it happened while I was there. I would probably believe it was a conspiracy theory involving a mutant cover-up.
Stuff White People Like
- some of this is not true at all for the people I know, but some are dead on for me (why yes, a Kitchenaid stand mixer would be my holy grail, preferably in clementine) and some I see in the general population (water bottles for everyone) and some are just amusing (standing still at concerts).
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
Objects on blog are not as crafty as they appear
I finished the monkey burp cloths for my little monkey. Ironically he is not spitting up as much as he used to (and by me writing that I have guaranteed projectile vomit for the next week).
I did get to make it to the last sewing class, so here is my tote. I love how it looks! It is on the flimsy side since I haven't put in a base and was too lazy and cheap to go buy thicker interfacing.
I know you are wondering what I am using my tote for. It's storing my current knitting project, knitting a hat. I'm trying double pointed needles to knit on the round for the first time. Getting it started seems to be the hard part. I started it over like three times.
Here is a photo cap for you. Chris, you should get this so let others try first :)
I did get to make it to the last sewing class, so here is my tote. I love how it looks! It is on the flimsy side since I haven't put in a base and was too lazy and cheap to go buy thicker interfacing.
I know you are wondering what I am using my tote for. It's storing my current knitting project, knitting a hat. I'm trying double pointed needles to knit on the round for the first time. Getting it started seems to be the hard part. I started it over like three times.
Here is a photo cap for you. Chris, you should get this so let others try first :)
Friday, February 22, 2008
Something to Smile About
Here are some things that made me smile this week.
1) Bunny prints in the snow. You can see where the little guy stopped to eat, went exploring (the fire pit!) and took off. It's very cute.
2) Chuck Norris Tributes
3) A radio station that changed it's format and is now playing everything I loved in college (and some from high school). On one hand it makes me feel a little dated that the 90's rock gets it's own station (as opposed to '80s, 90s and now) but it sure does make me smile.
4) I'm getting decent at knitting scarves and I like it! Here is one with a little hole to pull the scarf through. Chris wants a hat and a sweater, both which scare me to try. But by golly, try I will!
5) The sewing class took too long, so a third meeting was scheduled. But I won't be able to make it. So my tote sits unfinished. I will try to finish it, but I was distracted by making these burp cloths. The aren't the fanciest things in the world but I am incredibly proud of myself for putting these together. These have letters of the alphabet and I have a few more to make with cute little monkeys.
1) Bunny prints in the snow. You can see where the little guy stopped to eat, went exploring (the fire pit!) and took off. It's very cute.
2) Chuck Norris Tributes
3) A radio station that changed it's format and is now playing everything I loved in college (and some from high school). On one hand it makes me feel a little dated that the 90's rock gets it's own station (as opposed to '80s, 90s and now) but it sure does make me smile.
4) I'm getting decent at knitting scarves and I like it! Here is one with a little hole to pull the scarf through. Chris wants a hat and a sweater, both which scare me to try. But by golly, try I will!
5) The sewing class took too long, so a third meeting was scheduled. But I won't be able to make it. So my tote sits unfinished. I will try to finish it, but I was distracted by making these burp cloths. The aren't the fanciest things in the world but I am incredibly proud of myself for putting these together. These have letters of the alphabet and I have a few more to make with cute little monkeys.
Saturday, February 16, 2008
Oh My!
I was going to log on and blog about Sock Wars (like the war game in college, but with yarn) and how I heart my bread maker but Ainsley Was Almost Eaten! SERIOUSLY! Carried away to never be seen again! I know I use to many exclamation points, but it is entirely necessary to convey my point here!
I just put all of the ingredients for Cheesy Potato Bread in the bread maker and was about to plug it in when I heard a bang from the back room. It was very reminiscent of when a bird ran into the window and died. So I thought 'oh, nuts' and headed back there, just in time to see through the back door a big bird swoop away to a nearby tree. And I see it's the hawk (I'm assuming hawk, but some large hunting bird) land in the tree in the back yard.
I saw this hawk a couple of weeks ago perched on the fence just hanging out, it flew away when I tried to get a picture for Chris, who is highly fascinated by the hawks we see when driving. So I try to get a picture this time, but the camera went fritzy again and it didn't turn out well. Then it flew away.
Then it clicks that the hawk flew into the window and Ainsley is back there. So I walk back and Ainsley is curled up on top of the love seat by the window. And right above her on the window are a couple of smears where a hawk hit the window.
Poor Ainsley has no clue she was nearly swooped away. I'll still give her a couple of kitty treats though.
PS - any suggestions on how to shrink the giant picture would be appreciated.
I just put all of the ingredients for Cheesy Potato Bread in the bread maker and was about to plug it in when I heard a bang from the back room. It was very reminiscent of when a bird ran into the window and died. So I thought 'oh, nuts' and headed back there, just in time to see through the back door a big bird swoop away to a nearby tree. And I see it's the hawk (I'm assuming hawk, but some large hunting bird) land in the tree in the back yard.
I saw this hawk a couple of weeks ago perched on the fence just hanging out, it flew away when I tried to get a picture for Chris, who is highly fascinated by the hawks we see when driving. So I try to get a picture this time, but the camera went fritzy again and it didn't turn out well. Then it flew away.
Then it clicks that the hawk flew into the window and Ainsley is back there. So I walk back and Ainsley is curled up on top of the love seat by the window. And right above her on the window are a couple of smears where a hawk hit the window.
Poor Ainsley has no clue she was nearly swooped away. I'll still give her a couple of kitty treats though.
PS - any suggestions on how to shrink the giant picture would be appreciated.
Monday, February 11, 2008
Adventures in Houseliving
First Story:
The house was attacked by a giant spider! Ok, so I actually found it in the corner of the basement, but it was a big spider. If my studly husband were home I would sic him on it and he would argue that spiders are good luck. If he's not home I will usually step up and take care of business. But this thing had to be related to Aragog. So I vetoed squishing it (that is a lot of ick) and I wasn't going to attempt to transport it outside. I calmly walked upstairs, got a glass from the cabinet and placed said glass over the spider. It glared at me and gnashed it's fangs.
Since I was doing laundry, I had to look at the little guy every time I went downstairs. Min followed me down and after a little exploring she found a new friend. She was very confused about the glass covering it and kept patting at it. Then she would look at me and meow. She finally came over and was rubbing against my leg. I told her "Tough noogies" and walked away.
Later I found the glass pushed onto a crack and the spider was no where to be found. I'm going to go with the theory and Min helped to smuggle her new many-legged friend to freedom.
Story Two:
Game Night was Saturday! It was so great to have people visit, thank you to all who came!
Truth be told I've been feeling a little down lately. I'm stuck indoors with the lousy weather and the only talking I have some days is with Xander, who is not yet a conversational wiz. So it was great to relax with friends.
So I think everyone had a merry time, there was great food and fun games. We played a new one called The Last Word, and we won't discuss just how bad I was at it. And the boys vs girls Cranium match was fun as always (girls ruled, but I didn't have to tell you that).
Story Three:
After everyone left Game Night, the wind really picked up and we even saw some lightening. The wind continued and the temperature dropped through Sunday. When we returned from church on Sunday morning the electricity was out. Which meant no heat. Disaster! Chris actually called up a friend to come over and explain how to properly work a wood-burning fireplace so we didn't burn the place down. So guess what we'll have at the next Game Night :)
The electric finally came back on about 4ish and the heater ran and ran, but would not get to above 57 degrees (for those concerned for Xander, we did turn on little heater to warm up his room). Seriously, it just kept running. I'm trying to sleep and can see the gas bill skyrocketing. I call in to our home warranty this morning to arrange someone to look at our heater and Chris decides to pull out the air filter. Within an hour and a half the temperature was up 5 degrees.
So today's lesson is if you buy a house, change the air filter.
And finally, a Name that Screen Cap - television edition.
The house was attacked by a giant spider! Ok, so I actually found it in the corner of the basement, but it was a big spider. If my studly husband were home I would sic him on it and he would argue that spiders are good luck. If he's not home I will usually step up and take care of business. But this thing had to be related to Aragog. So I vetoed squishing it (that is a lot of ick) and I wasn't going to attempt to transport it outside. I calmly walked upstairs, got a glass from the cabinet and placed said glass over the spider. It glared at me and gnashed it's fangs.
Since I was doing laundry, I had to look at the little guy every time I went downstairs. Min followed me down and after a little exploring she found a new friend. She was very confused about the glass covering it and kept patting at it. Then she would look at me and meow. She finally came over and was rubbing against my leg. I told her "Tough noogies" and walked away.
Later I found the glass pushed onto a crack and the spider was no where to be found. I'm going to go with the theory and Min helped to smuggle her new many-legged friend to freedom.
Story Two:
Game Night was Saturday! It was so great to have people visit, thank you to all who came!
Truth be told I've been feeling a little down lately. I'm stuck indoors with the lousy weather and the only talking I have some days is with Xander, who is not yet a conversational wiz. So it was great to relax with friends.
So I think everyone had a merry time, there was great food and fun games. We played a new one called The Last Word, and we won't discuss just how bad I was at it. And the boys vs girls Cranium match was fun as always (girls ruled, but I didn't have to tell you that).
Story Three:
After everyone left Game Night, the wind really picked up and we even saw some lightening. The wind continued and the temperature dropped through Sunday. When we returned from church on Sunday morning the electricity was out. Which meant no heat. Disaster! Chris actually called up a friend to come over and explain how to properly work a wood-burning fireplace so we didn't burn the place down. So guess what we'll have at the next Game Night :)
The electric finally came back on about 4ish and the heater ran and ran, but would not get to above 57 degrees (for those concerned for Xander, we did turn on little heater to warm up his room). Seriously, it just kept running. I'm trying to sleep and can see the gas bill skyrocketing. I call in to our home warranty this morning to arrange someone to look at our heater and Chris decides to pull out the air filter. Within an hour and a half the temperature was up 5 degrees.
So today's lesson is if you buy a house, change the air filter.
And finally, a Name that Screen Cap - television edition.
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