My nephew James had a birthday party today. He turned 9 on Tuesday but his mom was on call this week so had to wait until the weekend to have a party.
Talk about a nuthouse! The kids were soooo crazy. 4:00 couldn't come fast enough for me. Normally I enjoy being around kids. But there was one particular boy who was especially wound up today. He was non-stop. The others fed off of his energy and it was not pretty.
James had fun, though, and I suppose that's what matters most. He got some cool toys and a wad of money. I have him a couple of mini Transformer toys and a pack of Yugioh cards. After the party, most of the guests went to the swimming pool for a pool party. I had had enough by that point and came home as quick as I could.
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Lindsey is spending the night with me tonight. I couldn't get her off my computer so I tricked her. I showed her my new movie...Lemony Snicket's Series of Unfortunate Events. She immediately wanted to watch it and signed off the computer. Hehehe, sneaky but it worked!
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I'm still trying to get used to wearing contacts. They don't bother me or anything. I just keep trying to adjust a pair of glasses that are no longer there. I nearly poked my eye out yesterday and caused Lucione to laugh for a good 5 minutes. This is not my first pair of contacts but it has been about 2 years since I've worn them.
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I can't believe tomorrow is the 1st of May. That means I only have 26 calendar days until summer vacation. 19 school days. It seems like I was just complaining about having to work in The Pit and now here I am less than 4 weeks away from the end.
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This year I have a niece graduating from Head Start, another niece being promoted from the 8th grade, a newphew graduating from high school, and another niece graduating from college. Graduation week is going to be quite busy for our family. Head Start has their ceremony on Thursday, high school on Friday, and 8th grade is usually on Saturday or the following Monday.
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I'm going to go and watch the movie with Lindsey. I hope you all are having a good weekend.
Saturday, April 30, 2005
Friday, April 29, 2005
Friday Quickie
My dad will be here in a few minutes to take me to the ferry. I get to town at 9:30, have an 11:30 appointment, and the ferry leaves town at 2:30. That doesn't leave much time to just goof off, but the more I think about it, the more I'm thinking I'll come home.
Miss Congeniality 2 and Sin City are playing at the theater. But Michael has to work tomorrow so that would be 2 days alone in town.
*sigh* I don't know...I guess I'll just see what happens.
This is such a lame post.
Miss Congeniality 2 and Sin City are playing at the theater. But Michael has to work tomorrow so that would be 2 days alone in town.
*sigh* I don't know...I guess I'll just see what happens.
This is such a lame post.
Thursday, April 28, 2005
Did I Mention Today is my Friday?
And I'm SO glad it is! What a day I had today!
First, I didn't sleep well because I sent an e-mail to someone and was scared of the reaction. Silly me, stressing over nothing.
Then, I woke up at 4AM because the wind started blowing and I forgot to close a window. The blinds were rattling and it woke me up. Once I wake up, I can't go back to sleep so I knew I was in for a long day.
I was at work for less than an hour and Mrs. C comes running into my lab. "Kerri, that book you lent me...it's yours, right?" I tell her it is and she says, "Mr. W* said he lost it and sent someone over to take it. I told them it's yours and they are going to the principal about it."
(*Mr. W and I don't get along. We actually don't even acknowledge each other's presence. I tried to at first, but he never reciprocated so I gave up. Then he punished both my girls and all hope was lost. Ha!)
So then I send an IM to SpaceCadet and tell her what Mrs. C told me. As we're talking I see the principal walk by. He has someone following him. I didn't know it at the time, but she was sent to claim my book. Next think I know, the principal comes in and says, "This is your book, right?" I nodded. "Well, I'm going to give it to Mr. W He needs it."
I explained that I brought it so that Mrs. C and the visiting artist could use it for the art projects they're doing for the upcoming spring concert. I asked if they were done with it. He said, (he never did ask if he could lend it to Mr. W) "They're all working together. No problem. I'll call Mr. W right now to tell him I found the book."
I'm glaring at him the entire time; too angry to speak. He walks out and Mrs. C comes running back in. "Kerri! I tried to stop him...he just came and took it! I wasn't even in the room. I caught him coming OUT of the room with the book in his hands! I told him that I was responsible for it and he wasn't taking it anywhere until he asked you first. Did he ask?"
I said, "Well, not exactly asked...he asked if it was mine. Then basically told me he was going to give it to Mr. W."
She was so upset. The book is a song book. A hard cover song book of Disney songs. Disney and songs...my two favorite things all together in one book with nice artwork and everything. It was a gift from my mom a few years ago. I told her not to worry. I said I'd get it back if I had to go knock on his door (he wasn't answering his phone).
Mrs. C left and I see the principal come back in. I'm still glaring at him. He says, "It's in Mr. W's hands now. He was in the middle of something so I didn't have a chance to tell him it was yours. You might want to grab him and let him know, if you see him."
"Oh, I will." I couldn't stop glaring at him. The whole time I'm sending IM's to SpaceCadet so now she's getting worried and stressed. I had to go to science class.
When I walked out of there, the principal was at his desk. He called to me and asked, "Does this book have sentimental value?" SpaceCadet was standing next to him and she just looked at me. Probably worried I was going to let him know what I was really thinking.
"Yes, it does. It was a gift from my mother."
"Okay, then I'll make sure you get it back. Remember to stop Mr. W if you see him."
I walked back to my lab and send off another IM. "Does it have sentimental value? If I said no would he have just given it to him? Never mind the fact that I didn't mean for it to be lent to him. Never mind the fact that I can't......Grrrrrrrrr!" I was irked. The whole situation just irked me. By then it was 11:00...Mr. W had had my book for 2 and a half hours and STILL was not answering his phone (his music classroom is in a separate building so I couldn't just go knock on his door even though I wanted to).
Finally, between 11:30 and 12:00 Mr. W walked into my lab holding the book. "Is this yours?" I said it was. "I lost one that looks just like it."
"I lent that to Mrs. C yesterday. I assure you, it's mine."
"Well, thanks" he said, as he placed it on my desk. He turned and walked out and I returned it to Mrs. C.
"What a relief to have this over with! That was stressful." She agreed and told me again how she tried to say no but the principal just took it anyway. I told her I didn't blame her, I could have been more assertive but I, too, was shocked at how things played out. I handed her the book and told her not to worry about all that had happened. She promised to "protect" it until they were done with it.
Around 12:30 I passed the principal in the hallway. I told him I got the book back and he stopped. He said, "You know, had I known that book had such sentimental value, I never would have gotten involved. But Mr. W called in a panic. He said he lost his red book with Disney songs in it and he desperately needed it back to make copies of a song. I saw that book in the art room and thought I'd see if it would work. I'm sorry you were so nervous about it but like I said, if I had known its value to you, I wouldn't have gotten involved. And you know what else? Maybe you should just leave valuables at home. Don't even bring them to school. That way things like this don't happen."
I said, "Okay" and walked away. What I really wanted to do was scream at him. HE TOOK MY BOOK without asking and lent it to someone else. Somehow all the resulting stress was my fault?! Excuse me, mr. principal, but I've known you for 3 years. Mrs. C has been in my life since I was 7 years old. I trust her and if you hadn't stuck your nose where it didn't belong all of this could have been avoided. Good grief!
I'm so glad that it's all over. I'm even more glad that I am not working tomorrow. I have an appointment with the eye doctor which means I get to take a ferry ride to Town in the morning. I haven't decided yet if I'm going to rush back to the ferry or spend a night. I'm kinda leaning at spending a night, especially after today. But I don't know that I want to be over there alone. Anyway, if I don't post tomorrow, you'll know I spent the night. :o)
Btw, Ahka and I were also sending IM's to each other and even though I didn't tell her what was going on, she managed to brighten my spirits and had me laughing before we said our goodbyes. The day got better quickly and has been good ever since. :o)
First, I didn't sleep well because I sent an e-mail to someone and was scared of the reaction. Silly me, stressing over nothing.
Then, I woke up at 4AM because the wind started blowing and I forgot to close a window. The blinds were rattling and it woke me up. Once I wake up, I can't go back to sleep so I knew I was in for a long day.
I was at work for less than an hour and Mrs. C comes running into my lab. "Kerri, that book you lent me...it's yours, right?" I tell her it is and she says, "Mr. W* said he lost it and sent someone over to take it. I told them it's yours and they are going to the principal about it."
(*Mr. W and I don't get along. We actually don't even acknowledge each other's presence. I tried to at first, but he never reciprocated so I gave up. Then he punished both my girls and all hope was lost. Ha!)
So then I send an IM to SpaceCadet and tell her what Mrs. C told me. As we're talking I see the principal walk by. He has someone following him. I didn't know it at the time, but she was sent to claim my book. Next think I know, the principal comes in and says, "This is your book, right?" I nodded. "Well, I'm going to give it to Mr. W He needs it."
I explained that I brought it so that Mrs. C and the visiting artist could use it for the art projects they're doing for the upcoming spring concert. I asked if they were done with it. He said, (he never did ask if he could lend it to Mr. W) "They're all working together. No problem. I'll call Mr. W right now to tell him I found the book."
I'm glaring at him the entire time; too angry to speak. He walks out and Mrs. C comes running back in. "Kerri! I tried to stop him...he just came and took it! I wasn't even in the room. I caught him coming OUT of the room with the book in his hands! I told him that I was responsible for it and he wasn't taking it anywhere until he asked you first. Did he ask?"
I said, "Well, not exactly asked...he asked if it was mine. Then basically told me he was going to give it to Mr. W."
She was so upset. The book is a song book. A hard cover song book of Disney songs. Disney and songs...my two favorite things all together in one book with nice artwork and everything. It was a gift from my mom a few years ago. I told her not to worry. I said I'd get it back if I had to go knock on his door (he wasn't answering his phone).
Mrs. C left and I see the principal come back in. I'm still glaring at him. He says, "It's in Mr. W's hands now. He was in the middle of something so I didn't have a chance to tell him it was yours. You might want to grab him and let him know, if you see him."
"Oh, I will." I couldn't stop glaring at him. The whole time I'm sending IM's to SpaceCadet so now she's getting worried and stressed. I had to go to science class.
When I walked out of there, the principal was at his desk. He called to me and asked, "Does this book have sentimental value?" SpaceCadet was standing next to him and she just looked at me. Probably worried I was going to let him know what I was really thinking.
"Yes, it does. It was a gift from my mother."
"Okay, then I'll make sure you get it back. Remember to stop Mr. W if you see him."
I walked back to my lab and send off another IM. "Does it have sentimental value? If I said no would he have just given it to him? Never mind the fact that I didn't mean for it to be lent to him. Never mind the fact that I can't......Grrrrrrrrr!" I was irked. The whole situation just irked me. By then it was 11:00...Mr. W had had my book for 2 and a half hours and STILL was not answering his phone (his music classroom is in a separate building so I couldn't just go knock on his door even though I wanted to).
Finally, between 11:30 and 12:00 Mr. W walked into my lab holding the book. "Is this yours?" I said it was. "I lost one that looks just like it."
"I lent that to Mrs. C yesterday. I assure you, it's mine."
"Well, thanks" he said, as he placed it on my desk. He turned and walked out and I returned it to Mrs. C.
"What a relief to have this over with! That was stressful." She agreed and told me again how she tried to say no but the principal just took it anyway. I told her I didn't blame her, I could have been more assertive but I, too, was shocked at how things played out. I handed her the book and told her not to worry about all that had happened. She promised to "protect" it until they were done with it.
Around 12:30 I passed the principal in the hallway. I told him I got the book back and he stopped. He said, "You know, had I known that book had such sentimental value, I never would have gotten involved. But Mr. W called in a panic. He said he lost his red book with Disney songs in it and he desperately needed it back to make copies of a song. I saw that book in the art room and thought I'd see if it would work. I'm sorry you were so nervous about it but like I said, if I had known its value to you, I wouldn't have gotten involved. And you know what else? Maybe you should just leave valuables at home. Don't even bring them to school. That way things like this don't happen."
I said, "Okay" and walked away. What I really wanted to do was scream at him. HE TOOK MY BOOK without asking and lent it to someone else. Somehow all the resulting stress was my fault?! Excuse me, mr. principal, but I've known you for 3 years. Mrs. C has been in my life since I was 7 years old. I trust her and if you hadn't stuck your nose where it didn't belong all of this could have been avoided. Good grief!
I'm so glad that it's all over. I'm even more glad that I am not working tomorrow. I have an appointment with the eye doctor which means I get to take a ferry ride to Town in the morning. I haven't decided yet if I'm going to rush back to the ferry or spend a night. I'm kinda leaning at spending a night, especially after today. But I don't know that I want to be over there alone. Anyway, if I don't post tomorrow, you'll know I spent the night. :o)
Btw, Ahka and I were also sending IM's to each other and even though I didn't tell her what was going on, she managed to brighten my spirits and had me laughing before we said our goodbyes. The day got better quickly and has been good ever since. :o)
Wednesday, April 27, 2005
The Imaginarium!
The Imaginarium! came to visit us again this year. Last year, they brought their reptiles. This year it was chemistry. Radical Reactions, to be exact. The assembly just ended. The kids had so much fun!
They asked for volunteers and for one of their reactions, they chose Craig! He was so cute and did an excellent job. His job was to pour acid onto sugar to cause a reaction. He poured it on and at first nothing happened.
"Did I put enough? I don't think this is going to work."
The gal assured him it would, she stirred it up a little bit with her "magic wand" and then the sugar started to change color. It eventually let off some smoke and turned all black.
Craig pulled off his goggles and gloves and headed back to his seat exclaiming, "I'm getting out of here!"
The assembly was scheduled for an hour but lasted closer to 30 minutes. It was memorable and fun for all who attended. Especially since their final Radical Reaction set off the smoke alarm!
I'm so glad they came. They did a wonderful presentation. :o)
They asked for volunteers and for one of their reactions, they chose Craig! He was so cute and did an excellent job. His job was to pour acid onto sugar to cause a reaction. He poured it on and at first nothing happened.
"Did I put enough? I don't think this is going to work."
The gal assured him it would, she stirred it up a little bit with her "magic wand" and then the sugar started to change color. It eventually let off some smoke and turned all black.
Craig pulled off his goggles and gloves and headed back to his seat exclaiming, "I'm getting out of here!"
The assembly was scheduled for an hour but lasted closer to 30 minutes. It was memorable and fun for all who attended. Especially since their final Radical Reaction set off the smoke alarm!
I'm so glad they came. They did a wonderful presentation. :o)
Tuesday, April 26, 2005
I'm So Glad I Can Still Make Her Laugh
Lucione comes here everyday after school to do her homework. She's an excellent student. She had the highest GPA in her class last quarter...tied only with Alexys who was the highest in her grade.
Anyway, Lucione turned 13 almost 2 weeks ago. I worried that she'd drift away. Like becoming a teenager would change her overnight.
She hasn't changed and I'm thinkin she won't for a while and that makes me happy.
When she was little, she used to stick her shoulder blades out because I didn't like her to. She's barely got any meat on her bones anyway, but she has this way of making them stick out so far it looks like they're going to poke right through her skin. I used to pretend to get grossed out. She'd be sitting on my lap and the next thing I knew I was getting stabbed by a shoulder blade. "Ewww! Bones!" She'd laugh and after a few minutes we'd do it all over again.
Today I was in my bedroom relaxing. The TV was on but I wasn't really watching...just sorta half listening. She was drawing on my dry erase board and brought it in to show me what she had done.
She has this habit of whistling. When she's not whistling she's humming. She started whilstling Raindrops Keep Falling on my Head today. She tried to sing it but only knew the first line. I sang it to her and she cracked up.
She thought I was making up the words as I went along. (Yeah, right!) I couldn't convince her otherwise. She hummed and whistled while I sang.
Next thing I knew, she was tickling me so I tickled back. We wrestled around for a few minutes before she wore me out. She may be a "teenager" but she's still the same girl I've always known. I can still make her laugh and that feels good.
Anyway, Lucione turned 13 almost 2 weeks ago. I worried that she'd drift away. Like becoming a teenager would change her overnight.
She hasn't changed and I'm thinkin she won't for a while and that makes me happy.
When she was little, she used to stick her shoulder blades out because I didn't like her to. She's barely got any meat on her bones anyway, but she has this way of making them stick out so far it looks like they're going to poke right through her skin. I used to pretend to get grossed out. She'd be sitting on my lap and the next thing I knew I was getting stabbed by a shoulder blade. "Ewww! Bones!" She'd laugh and after a few minutes we'd do it all over again.
Today I was in my bedroom relaxing. The TV was on but I wasn't really watching...just sorta half listening. She was drawing on my dry erase board and brought it in to show me what she had done.
She has this habit of whistling. When she's not whistling she's humming. She started whilstling Raindrops Keep Falling on my Head today. She tried to sing it but only knew the first line. I sang it to her and she cracked up.
She thought I was making up the words as I went along. (Yeah, right!) I couldn't convince her otherwise. She hummed and whistled while I sang.
Next thing I knew, she was tickling me so I tickled back. We wrestled around for a few minutes before she wore me out. She may be a "teenager" but she's still the same girl I've always known. I can still make her laugh and that feels good.
Yay!
I'm so tickled. One of my very good friends outside of Blogger has created a blog of her own! I won't link her because she's still in that "But I Have Nothing To Write About" stage we all go through. But I'm so excited!
Why Can't She Do Both?
FOXSports.com - NFL Draft- Judge to woman: Jail or Packers tickets
How did the tickets even become part of the equation? The lady stole more than $3,000. Did she use the money to buy the tickets? If she did, than maybe she should serve the 90 days AND give up her tickets.
Maybe I'm just in a bad mood...we're closing in on 70 degrees again and this building is stuffy.
How did the tickets even become part of the equation? The lady stole more than $3,000. Did she use the money to buy the tickets? If she did, than maybe she should serve the 90 days AND give up her tickets.
Maybe I'm just in a bad mood...we're closing in on 70 degrees again and this building is stuffy.
Monday, April 25, 2005
What a Long Day!
I don't feel like I accomplished anything today. I don't really like these kinds of days. I kept finding myself wondering why I even showed up to work. The first hour of my day is always fine. That's when I'm in my element. The computer lab. In control of what happens and having a blast. The rest of the day I have to partner up with 2 different people. Because I'm with them only in short bursts, they do all the planning, they do most of the teaching...I basically turn into a gopher for them. I get to run and make copies, hunt down supplies, stuff like that. I so wish we could go back to the way things were. Back to when I was in the computer lab all day doing all sorts of projects. I'm not a control freak, I don't mind not being the lead teacher in science and library...but I want to feel useful.
Saturday, April 23, 2005
I Couldn't Say Goodbye
I can't stop crying today. Jocko's memorial service was today. I couldn't bring myself to go. I feel guilty about that, but I just couldn't. I got dressed, opened the door, but couldn't do it.
Granted, I wasn't as close to him as I was when he was small, but it just hurt too much to lose him. Especially in the manner we did.
He was such a happy child. Always active, always finding trouble. He definitely kept me on my toes. He and his sister used to fight over my lap. The sister usually won because she was older and faster, but he got his share of love from me. Putting him to bed at night was hard because he'd make me read to him. He always had a stack of books hidden under his covers so that when I finished one, there'd be another.
The last time I babysat him he was about 10 years old. He was picking on his younger sister so I sent him to his bedroom. He climbed out his window and ran away. He didn't even have shoes on. The next door neighbor had to go after him because I couldn't leave the girls home alone and I didn't have time to get them ready to go out.
As I sat listening to the church chimes today, I felt compelled to write. After about 10 minutes, and a lot of tears, this is the result. You'll have to click it to get it bigger because I couldn't bring myself to type it out.
Friday, April 22, 2005
Michael Richard
When Michael proposed, he told me he didn't want to get in the way of my planning what I thought would be the perfect wedding ceremony. He only had 2 conditions: 1. He had to have all his best friends in the wedding. And 2. Michael Richard had to carry the rings.
I agreed to his conditions not realizing just how many "best friends" he had. He had 6 grooms men already chosen before I gave a single thought to who my brides maids would be. Needless to say, we had a HUGE wedding party.
HUGE Wedding Party...All Michael's Fault!
Michael Richard was only 4 years old when we got engaged. He was 5 by the time our wedding day arrived. He made us nervous, though, because just the month before, he was the ring bearer for an uncle on his dad's side of the family and didn't make it down the aisle. He saw the relatively small crowd, started crying and had to be lead around the pews in order to take his place at the front of the church. We so wanted him to walk down the aisle but we were afraid of a repeat performance.
At the time, Michael's sister (Michael Richard's mother) was living at Michael's parents house. Their house being a block away from the church, that's where Michael and his grooms men got dressed. Michael chose a mini version of his tuxedo for Michael Richard to wear. He brought Michael Richard into his bedroom where all the "men" were dressing. One of his friends brought some beer (I didn't know this until way later.) and they all shared one "last one" with their buddy. Michael handed Michael Richard a can of Pepsi and he guzzled his soda pop as the rest of them guzzled their can of Budweiser.
The Handsome Fellas :o)
Once the cans were emptied, Michael took Michael Richard into the bathroom so they could comb their hair. He told his nephew how handsome he was. He told him he was proud of him for being a big boy and couldn't wait to see him walk down the aisle with the pillow. Michael Richard could not stop smiling. He felt like one of the guys.
Just One of the Guys!
I was so nervous when it was his turn to walk down the aisle, I almost didn't want to look. It turned out, I had nothing to worry about. He not only walked down the aisle, he held that pillow with one hand, kept his head up, and smiled at the 400+ guests who attended. Aside from an occasional yawn, he was the perfect little gentlemen and we loved having him as a part of our special day.
He Did Great!
Today, Michael Richard turns 18 years old. Next month he'll graduate high school and intends to then join the Merchant Marines.
The Little Man is All Grown Up! :o)
Happy 18th Birthday, Michael Richard!
I agreed to his conditions not realizing just how many "best friends" he had. He had 6 grooms men already chosen before I gave a single thought to who my brides maids would be. Needless to say, we had a HUGE wedding party.
HUGE Wedding Party...All Michael's Fault!
Michael Richard was only 4 years old when we got engaged. He was 5 by the time our wedding day arrived. He made us nervous, though, because just the month before, he was the ring bearer for an uncle on his dad's side of the family and didn't make it down the aisle. He saw the relatively small crowd, started crying and had to be lead around the pews in order to take his place at the front of the church. We so wanted him to walk down the aisle but we were afraid of a repeat performance.
At the time, Michael's sister (Michael Richard's mother) was living at Michael's parents house. Their house being a block away from the church, that's where Michael and his grooms men got dressed. Michael chose a mini version of his tuxedo for Michael Richard to wear. He brought Michael Richard into his bedroom where all the "men" were dressing. One of his friends brought some beer (I didn't know this until way later.) and they all shared one "last one" with their buddy. Michael handed Michael Richard a can of Pepsi and he guzzled his soda pop as the rest of them guzzled their can of Budweiser.
The Handsome Fellas :o)
Once the cans were emptied, Michael took Michael Richard into the bathroom so they could comb their hair. He told his nephew how handsome he was. He told him he was proud of him for being a big boy and couldn't wait to see him walk down the aisle with the pillow. Michael Richard could not stop smiling. He felt like one of the guys.
Just One of the Guys!
I was so nervous when it was his turn to walk down the aisle, I almost didn't want to look. It turned out, I had nothing to worry about. He not only walked down the aisle, he held that pillow with one hand, kept his head up, and smiled at the 400+ guests who attended. Aside from an occasional yawn, he was the perfect little gentlemen and we loved having him as a part of our special day.
He Did Great!
Today, Michael Richard turns 18 years old. Next month he'll graduate high school and intends to then join the Merchant Marines.
The Little Man is All Grown Up! :o)
Happy 18th Birthday, Michael Richard!
Spring Fever
It's 8AM and already 48 degrees outside. True, that doesn't sound all that warm, but when you spend the last 6 months at 40 degrees or lower, 50 degrees feels warm to you. Yesterday it got into the high 50's and it's expected to get up into the low to mid 60's today and tomorrow.
While it's nice to have this beautiful weather, it has some undesireable side-effects. Especially in the school setting. Some years it feels as if we only have two seasons. Rain and sunshine. So when the sunshine finally arrives, the kids are ready for school to end. Some of them have severe cases of Spring Fever with 5 weeks remaining in the school year.
The older children can't wait to start swimming in the ocean and going camping or fishing. The younger children can't wait to finish school so they can move up a grade. I overheard one little girl telling her older cousin, "After tomorrow I'll only have 35 days till I'm in 2nd grade." She wasn't too happy when her cousin pointed out that she had to wait until the 3 months of vacation were over so it actually was "way more than 100 days."
The temerpature has gone up since I started writing this. It's going to be a loooonnnnng day.
While it's nice to have this beautiful weather, it has some undesireable side-effects. Especially in the school setting. Some years it feels as if we only have two seasons. Rain and sunshine. So when the sunshine finally arrives, the kids are ready for school to end. Some of them have severe cases of Spring Fever with 5 weeks remaining in the school year.
The older children can't wait to start swimming in the ocean and going camping or fishing. The younger children can't wait to finish school so they can move up a grade. I overheard one little girl telling her older cousin, "After tomorrow I'll only have 35 days till I'm in 2nd grade." She wasn't too happy when her cousin pointed out that she had to wait until the 3 months of vacation were over so it actually was "way more than 100 days."
The temerpature has gone up since I started writing this. It's going to be a loooonnnnng day.
Thursday, April 21, 2005
Kid Stories
I was in the library after school helping some kids with their homework. The daughter of one of my friends said that they were having some people over for dinner. I asked her if she was going to cook. She said her mom would do the cooking because she didn't know how to cook anything but cakes.
Another little boy sitting at the table said, "You know what, Ms. Kerri? If I were the last one on Earth who knew how to cook, you guys would get so tired of fried egg sandwiches!"
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When the kids finish up early in Science they get the chance to read a book, play with lego blocks, or draw in the art center. Every single time Craig gets free time he chooses to read and it's always the same book. I have never paid attention to the title, but I know it's about space exploration.
Yesterday he walked into the science lab and said, "Ms. Horace (her name is not Ms. Horace, but that's how he pronounces her name) my mom said she'd find my favorite book on the internet so I'm going to need you to write down the illustrator and author for me."
It turned out that there were actually 2 copies of the book so she chose one, crossed out her name and wrote his. His eyes lit up and he grinned from ear to ear. I think she made his day. Maybe even his week. :o)
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The last time we had a family dinner that I actually attended, Craig and his family were there. He has a younger sister Mikayla who is not a huge meat eater. She'll eat meat once in a while, but more often than not, she'll choose vegetables over meat when given the choice. In fact, I've seen them both sit down to dinner with equal portions of the same foods on their plates. Craig would eat the meat, Mikayla the vegetables and then they'd trade plates and eat what their sibling left behind. On this particular occasion, they got to choose what they wanted to eat. When Craig saw his sisters plate full of nothing but vegetables, he said, "Oh, Mikayla, you're such a vegetarian."
Mikayla started crying her little eyes out and ran to her mother. "Mom! Craig called me a vegetarian!" I have no idea what she thinks that word means.
Mikayla at her Head Start Christmas program.
Another little boy sitting at the table said, "You know what, Ms. Kerri? If I were the last one on Earth who knew how to cook, you guys would get so tired of fried egg sandwiches!"
*******************************************
When the kids finish up early in Science they get the chance to read a book, play with lego blocks, or draw in the art center. Every single time Craig gets free time he chooses to read and it's always the same book. I have never paid attention to the title, but I know it's about space exploration.
Yesterday he walked into the science lab and said, "Ms. Horace (her name is not Ms. Horace, but that's how he pronounces her name) my mom said she'd find my favorite book on the internet so I'm going to need you to write down the illustrator and author for me."
It turned out that there were actually 2 copies of the book so she chose one, crossed out her name and wrote his. His eyes lit up and he grinned from ear to ear. I think she made his day. Maybe even his week. :o)
*******************************************
The last time we had a family dinner that I actually attended, Craig and his family were there. He has a younger sister Mikayla who is not a huge meat eater. She'll eat meat once in a while, but more often than not, she'll choose vegetables over meat when given the choice. In fact, I've seen them both sit down to dinner with equal portions of the same foods on their plates. Craig would eat the meat, Mikayla the vegetables and then they'd trade plates and eat what their sibling left behind. On this particular occasion, they got to choose what they wanted to eat. When Craig saw his sisters plate full of nothing but vegetables, he said, "Oh, Mikayla, you're such a vegetarian."
Mikayla started crying her little eyes out and ran to her mother. "Mom! Craig called me a vegetarian!" I have no idea what she thinks that word means.
Mikayla at her Head Start Christmas program.
Wednesday, April 20, 2005
Lucione and Her Tents
Lucione and Lindsey are very close in age. Lucione was only 18 months when Lindsey was born. Because of that, she spent a lot of time with me. In order to give her mother a break and allow her to concentrate on the newborn, she spent every weekend at my house until she was about 8 years old. She liked being a "big girl" and sleeping in the living room all by herself, but we always worried she'd fall off the couch and hurt herself.
Our solution was to buy her a tent. One of those toy tents with characters on them. She was always a fan of flashlights, even though she was not afraid of the dark. Sleeping, or even playing, in a tent was ideal for her because it blocked out the light. She'd sit in her tent for hours and play all by herself. Usually, she had one of her many Magna Doodles with her because she loved to draw.
She had so many tents. 101 Dalmatians, Minnie Mouse, James and the Giant Peach...
She loved her James and the Giant Peach the best because it was the roomiest. The day it arrived, she was so excited. We had to set it up immediately so she could try it out.
We put it on our big king size bed and she jumped right in. As soon as she did, I started laughing hysterically. She thought I was just tickled about her tent so laughed along with me. I ran and got the camera and tried to calm myself enough to take a photo.
This is what I saw:
Her brand new James and the Giant Peach tent.
I was in tears from laughing so hard. She just sat there grinning probably thinking I had lost my mind. I showed her the pictures yesterday and we laughed for a good 10 minutes. She said, "OMG! My hair!!"
A closer view.
I don't remember the other tents doing this to her hair. I'm so glad my camera had film! heehee!
Our solution was to buy her a tent. One of those toy tents with characters on them. She was always a fan of flashlights, even though she was not afraid of the dark. Sleeping, or even playing, in a tent was ideal for her because it blocked out the light. She'd sit in her tent for hours and play all by herself. Usually, she had one of her many Magna Doodles with her because she loved to draw.
She had so many tents. 101 Dalmatians, Minnie Mouse, James and the Giant Peach...
She loved her James and the Giant Peach the best because it was the roomiest. The day it arrived, she was so excited. We had to set it up immediately so she could try it out.
We put it on our big king size bed and she jumped right in. As soon as she did, I started laughing hysterically. She thought I was just tickled about her tent so laughed along with me. I ran and got the camera and tried to calm myself enough to take a photo.
This is what I saw:
Her brand new James and the Giant Peach tent.
I was in tears from laughing so hard. She just sat there grinning probably thinking I had lost my mind. I showed her the pictures yesterday and we laughed for a good 10 minutes. She said, "OMG! My hair!!"
A closer view.
I don't remember the other tents doing this to her hair. I'm so glad my camera had film! heehee!
Tuesday, April 19, 2005
Monday, April 18, 2005
Not So Bad
The school day felt a little long today but not as bad as I thought it would. I'm moving a little slow, but I'm not totally drained and don't feel sleepy yet. That's good. Otherwise, I might be tempted to nap and then I'd be in the same predicament tomorrow.
There is a family potluck over at my in-laws today. I'm not going. It's starting right now and my dinner isn't finished cooking. (I planned it that way, but they don't know that.) My nephew has been in the Merchant Marines since September. He's home for a couple weeks so they're having a get together. Michael doesn't get home until almost 7PM so I purposely got a slow start on dinner. I don't like going to family dinners alone and after almost 13 years of being a part of this family, I sometimes still end up feeling alone.
Maybe I do it to myself. I'm almost sure I do. Slowly work my way towards the corner of the room hoping not to be noticed. It's a self-defense mechanism. They remember everything, especially if they know it embarrasses you. Then when you least expect it, they bring it up again and have a big laugh at your expense. There is nothing I hate more than being put in the spotlight.
Rather than suffer through the dinner wondering if/when my time will come, I'll cook us our own dinner. We'll eat together in peace and then go and visit the nephew. Who, by the way, could pass for Michael's son. Same mannerisms and everything.
Back to the kitchen I go.
There is a family potluck over at my in-laws today. I'm not going. It's starting right now and my dinner isn't finished cooking. (I planned it that way, but they don't know that.) My nephew has been in the Merchant Marines since September. He's home for a couple weeks so they're having a get together. Michael doesn't get home until almost 7PM so I purposely got a slow start on dinner. I don't like going to family dinners alone and after almost 13 years of being a part of this family, I sometimes still end up feeling alone.
Maybe I do it to myself. I'm almost sure I do. Slowly work my way towards the corner of the room hoping not to be noticed. It's a self-defense mechanism. They remember everything, especially if they know it embarrasses you. Then when you least expect it, they bring it up again and have a big laugh at your expense. There is nothing I hate more than being put in the spotlight.
Rather than suffer through the dinner wondering if/when my time will come, I'll cook us our own dinner. We'll eat together in peace and then go and visit the nephew. Who, by the way, could pass for Michael's son. Same mannerisms and everything.
Back to the kitchen I go.
Is it Too Late to Take it Back?
I know I said I was ready to go back to work...and for the most part I am. But of all nights for my husband to have snoring fits, did it have to be last night? I lost track of how many times he woke me up with his snoring. Needless to day, today is going to be a very long day!
Sunday, April 17, 2005
Spring! Finally!
Today was the first day it actually felt like Spring around here. The unexpected sunshine and warmer temperatures were such a nice surprise. Today, rather than turning on the heat, we opened some windows. Rather than staying home, we ventured out to soak in some rays. We still had to wear light jackets, but it felt so good to be out in the sun.
We took a drive out to the other end of the island and noticed that almost every beach access road had at least one vehicle in it. The snow in the mountains is receding so that only the tips are white. The trees are budding and blossoming.
Daylight is lasting longer and longer, as well. It's 7PM and still very bright outside. I think I'll go out and enjoy the last of the sunshine.
I start back to work tomorrow. Six weeks from now, Summer vacation begins. Where has the time gone?
We took a drive out to the other end of the island and noticed that almost every beach access road had at least one vehicle in it. The snow in the mountains is receding so that only the tips are white. The trees are budding and blossoming.
Daylight is lasting longer and longer, as well. It's 7PM and still very bright outside. I think I'll go out and enjoy the last of the sunshine.
I start back to work tomorrow. Six weeks from now, Summer vacation begins. Where has the time gone?
Saturday, April 16, 2005
One Word: Perseverance
Kudos to this gentlemen for not giving up! He took the written part of the drivers test 272 times before he finally passed. He couldn't read the manual so each time he took it, he learned a little more about how to drive until he finally learned enough to get the minimum score.
I'm always telling kids to keep trying. Don't give up. If it doesn't work, try again and keep trying until it does.
What an accomplishment for an elderly gentleman.
If you don't know what I'm referring to, the title is a link. ;o)
I'm always telling kids to keep trying. Don't give up. If it doesn't work, try again and keep trying until it does.
What an accomplishment for an elderly gentleman.
If you don't know what I'm referring to, the title is a link. ;o)
Friday, April 15, 2005
Please Don't Let Me Be Late!
A little girl, dressed in her Sunday best, was running as fast as she could, trying not to be late for Sunday School.
As she ran she prayed, “Dear Lord, please don’t let me be late!
Dear Lord, please don’t let me be late!"
As she was running and praying, she tripped on the footpath and fell getting her clothes dirty and tearing her dress. She got up, brushed herself off, and started running again.
As she ran she once again began to pray, “Dear Lord, please
don’t let me be late! But don’t shove me, either.”
As she ran she prayed, “Dear Lord, please don’t let me be late!
Dear Lord, please don’t let me be late!"
As she was running and praying, she tripped on the footpath and fell getting her clothes dirty and tearing her dress. She got up, brushed herself off, and started running again.
As she ran she once again began to pray, “Dear Lord, please
don’t let me be late! But don’t shove me, either.”
It's Pouring
I just checked the weather forecast. It's supposed to continue until Monday. Figures the sun would shine once Spring Break ends!
I'm actually ready to go back to work, though. I can't believe this week has felt so long! I don't know if it's that, or the anticipation of the end of the year. All I know is I can't wait to get back.
I'm actually ready to go back to work, though. I can't believe this week has felt so long! I don't know if it's that, or the anticipation of the end of the year. All I know is I can't wait to get back.
Thursday, April 14, 2005
I'm Pissed
I'm sorry, but I am. Today is Lucione's 13th birthday. Last week at school I asked her mother when she was going to have a party. She said, "It looks like I'll have to wait till payday. Or just have a family dinner." Payday is the same each month. Always on the 25th (unless the 25th lands on a weekend or holiday, then it's the workday closest to it, but that's beside the point).
Last night we sat RIGHT NEXT TO HER during Lucione's game. She did not mention a birthday party or dinner.
Just a few minutes ago, Lucione signed on to MSN Messenger so I "sang" happy birthday to her. She said thanks and I asked her when she was going to celebrate. She said, "Right now! Actually, it's over. It started at 12:00. I tried to call you and remind you."
I asked, "How can I be reminded of something I didn't know to begin with?" Then, mainly to make myself feel better, I said, "Oh, it's just as well. I can't go to your house, anyway." She has a cat and I'm allergic.
"Aunty Kerri, it was at the Teen Center."
I felt like I had been slapped in the face. I always help out with their birthdays. I'm always in charge of the decorations. I always help set up and clean up. I'm ALWAYS THERE. I sat right next to her mother for an hour and a half last night. How could she not tell me?
I hate to say it, but after the game, Lucione came to me for comfort. I sincerely hope that had nothing to do with her mother "forgetting" to tell me about the party. She did have the entire game to tell me. I didn't think she was jealous of the relationship I have with her daughter. I hope it's just her blonde streaks showing again. She is, after all, the biggest air-head I know. This just confirms it.
Last night we sat RIGHT NEXT TO HER during Lucione's game. She did not mention a birthday party or dinner.
Just a few minutes ago, Lucione signed on to MSN Messenger so I "sang" happy birthday to her. She said thanks and I asked her when she was going to celebrate. She said, "Right now! Actually, it's over. It started at 12:00. I tried to call you and remind you."
I asked, "How can I be reminded of something I didn't know to begin with?" Then, mainly to make myself feel better, I said, "Oh, it's just as well. I can't go to your house, anyway." She has a cat and I'm allergic.
"Aunty Kerri, it was at the Teen Center."
I felt like I had been slapped in the face. I always help out with their birthdays. I'm always in charge of the decorations. I always help set up and clean up. I'm ALWAYS THERE. I sat right next to her mother for an hour and a half last night. How could she not tell me?
I hate to say it, but after the game, Lucione came to me for comfort. I sincerely hope that had nothing to do with her mother "forgetting" to tell me about the party. She did have the entire game to tell me. I didn't think she was jealous of the relationship I have with her daughter. I hope it's just her blonde streaks showing again. She is, after all, the biggest air-head I know. This just confirms it.
Google Image Search Challenge
I was given a challenge. The challenge was to type the answer to a certain set of questions in to Google's Image search. Then I was to choose one of the images that came up and post it. So here we go.
The questions are:
1. What was your first car?
Lucione LIVED in the backseat of our Ranger. If she got sleepy, she'd fold up the chairs and lay on the floor. As long as she had a flashlight she was happy.
2. Where did you grow up?
Glimpses of my hometown.
3. Where do you live now?
Home Sweet Home!
4. What is your name?
If you know this berry, you know my name. ;o)
5. What is your grandmother's name?
My maternal grandmother's name.
6. What is your favorite food?
Who doesn't love cheesecake?!
7. What is your favorite drink?
Coke is it, Baby!
8. What is your favorite song?
My favorite song is the song my cousin sang at my wedding.
9. What is your favorite smell?
Nothing smells better to me than my husband's fresh baked bread.
10. What was the last thing you ate?
Okay, so my dinner was not this fancy. But I DID have fish and rice. :o)
The questions are:
1. What was your first car?
Lucione LIVED in the backseat of our Ranger. If she got sleepy, she'd fold up the chairs and lay on the floor. As long as she had a flashlight she was happy.
2. Where did you grow up?
Glimpses of my hometown.
3. Where do you live now?
Home Sweet Home!
4. What is your name?
If you know this berry, you know my name. ;o)
5. What is your grandmother's name?
My maternal grandmother's name.
6. What is your favorite food?
Who doesn't love cheesecake?!
7. What is your favorite drink?
Coke is it, Baby!
8. What is your favorite song?
My favorite song is the song my cousin sang at my wedding.
9. What is your favorite smell?
Nothing smells better to me than my husband's fresh baked bread.
10. What was the last thing you ate?
Okay, so my dinner was not this fancy. But I DID have fish and rice. :o)
Wednesday, April 13, 2005
My Poor Baby is Heartbroken
The little league End-of-the-Season Tournament started today. Lucione had to play against Alexys and despite being ahead by 6 after the first quarter, tied at the end of the first half, AND tied at the end of the 3rd quarter, they lost by 6. They're not out of the tournament, but they have to fight their way through the losers bracket.
I should have kept my distance after the game. Lucione gets emotional with me. As soon as I sat next to her, she started to cry. I gave her a pep-talk about how she played hard and that's what matters most. She did her best, did not nothing wrong, and will have another chance tomorrow. After I said all I could think of, she was still crying so I did the only thing I could think of.
I said, "EEEeewwww! I shouldn't have hugged you. You got your sweat all over me!"
Of course, that made her giggle. Now I have to wash my sweater. :o)
She played her heart out and had a really good game. They really should have won. I made it a point to NOT talk to Alexys after the game because I was quite disappointed in her. I didn't want to lecture her again so thought it best I stay away.
Not too long ago, we had a talk about sportsmanship and how one should act on the court when playing as a part of the team. We talked about playing hard, but playing fairly. We talked about keeping tempers under control and not throwing fits or pouting. We talked about not getting a swollen head. That, especially, is a really bad habit of hers.
I think I may have been talking to myself. She acted like she heard none of it. Not only did she not play team ball, she frowned the entire time and played especially rough when guarding Lucione. When she swatted at her and the ref called her on it, she cried and acted as if she didn't do anything. Her mother went down to the bench and talked to her about her attitude but that seemed to only make things worse.
Lindsey had a game this afternoon. She didn't tell me about it, though, so I missed it. I hear she won so she gets a day off and will play again on Friday. Lucione plays tomorrow. Hopefully she'll get a win. Her team has had a tough time this year. They play their hearts out and can't seem to pull off a win.
I should have kept my distance after the game. Lucione gets emotional with me. As soon as I sat next to her, she started to cry. I gave her a pep-talk about how she played hard and that's what matters most. She did her best, did not nothing wrong, and will have another chance tomorrow. After I said all I could think of, she was still crying so I did the only thing I could think of.
I said, "EEEeewwww! I shouldn't have hugged you. You got your sweat all over me!"
Of course, that made her giggle. Now I have to wash my sweater. :o)
She played her heart out and had a really good game. They really should have won. I made it a point to NOT talk to Alexys after the game because I was quite disappointed in her. I didn't want to lecture her again so thought it best I stay away.
Not too long ago, we had a talk about sportsmanship and how one should act on the court when playing as a part of the team. We talked about playing hard, but playing fairly. We talked about keeping tempers under control and not throwing fits or pouting. We talked about not getting a swollen head. That, especially, is a really bad habit of hers.
I think I may have been talking to myself. She acted like she heard none of it. Not only did she not play team ball, she frowned the entire time and played especially rough when guarding Lucione. When she swatted at her and the ref called her on it, she cried and acted as if she didn't do anything. Her mother went down to the bench and talked to her about her attitude but that seemed to only make things worse.
Lindsey had a game this afternoon. She didn't tell me about it, though, so I missed it. I hear she won so she gets a day off and will play again on Friday. Lucione plays tomorrow. Hopefully she'll get a win. Her team has had a tough time this year. They play their hearts out and can't seem to pull off a win.
Tuesday, April 12, 2005
Look Up at the Sky Day
Did you know today was "Look Up at the Sky Day"? How often do you actually take the time to just look up at the sky and let your mind just wander?
Summer is when I usually look up at the sky during the day. Mainly because it's the only time of year I'm outside during daylight hours on a somewhat regular basis. But also because Summer is the only time of year the sky changes. Fall and Winter are pretty much one rain or snow storm after another. Summer time offers bright blue skies with ever changing cloud formations.
My nieces and I like to see who can spot different things in the clouds. We also like to make up stories of where we think the jet are coming from or going to. Watching the eagles soar high above us is always relaxing. Of course, we can do that any time of year around here.
Looking up at the night sky always reminds me of how small my world actually is. At the same time, it's comforting to know that should loved ones who are far away happen to look up at the night sky, they are seeing the same stars I am. I've also been known to make a wish on falling stars. :o)
When my cousin's daughter Erin was in 2nd grade, she sang this song as a solo. Now she's got two twin girls of her own. She's thousands of miles away from me, but somehow, however cheesy it sounds, I know she's seeing the same night sky I am and it helps to know we're still connected.
Summer is when I usually look up at the sky during the day. Mainly because it's the only time of year I'm outside during daylight hours on a somewhat regular basis. But also because Summer is the only time of year the sky changes. Fall and Winter are pretty much one rain or snow storm after another. Summer time offers bright blue skies with ever changing cloud formations.
My nieces and I like to see who can spot different things in the clouds. We also like to make up stories of where we think the jet are coming from or going to. Watching the eagles soar high above us is always relaxing. Of course, we can do that any time of year around here.
Looking up at the night sky always reminds me of how small my world actually is. At the same time, it's comforting to know that should loved ones who are far away happen to look up at the night sky, they are seeing the same stars I am. I've also been known to make a wish on falling stars. :o)
Somewhere Out There
written by James Horner, Barry Mann, Cynthia Weil
Somewhere out there beneath the pale moonlight
Someone's thinking of me and loving me tonight
Somewhere out there someone's saying a prayer
That we'll find one another in that big somewhere out there
And even though I know how very far apart we are
It helps to think we might be wishing on the same bright star
And when the night wind starts to sing a lonesome lullaby
It helps to think we're sleeping underneath the same big sky
Somewhere out there if love can see us through
Then we'll be together somewhere out there
Out where dreams come true
And even though I know how very far apart we are
It helps to think we might be wishing on the same bright star
And when the night wind starts to sing a lonesome lullaby
It helps to think we're sleeping underneath the same big sky
Somewhere out there if love can see us through
Then we'll be together somewhere out there
Out where dreams come true
When my cousin's daughter Erin was in 2nd grade, she sang this song as a solo. Now she's got two twin girls of her own. She's thousands of miles away from me, but somehow, however cheesy it sounds, I know she's seeing the same night sky I am and it helps to know we're still connected.
Monday, April 11, 2005
Pie, Music, and Haircuts
Last night wasn't too unbearable. When I entered the door, Sue jumped up to give me a hug. She said she was glad to see me and I said, "Yeah. You, too." Not very eloquent, I know. But it's hard to talk when biting one's tongue. ;o)
I stayed far enough away from her that she didn't feel the need to converse with me too much. When I finally relaxed, I was able to make small talk with her and the rest of the night was pretty good. There were tons of other family there, not just the siblings. The table was covered with pie, chips and dip, coffee, juice, and ice cream. I had one piece of pie...blueberry. Our Aunt Vivian was there. She especially liked the guacamole and we all loved that she kept calling it glaucoma. She knew its proper name, but told us all a story about a time she had a bit too much to drink and the harder she tried to pronounce guacamole, the more it sounded like glaucoma.
While we were eating, we enjoyed listening and singing along with Aunt Vivian's CD's. She had her granddaughter burn CD's with all of her favorite songs on them. Al Jolson, Frank Sinatra, Lena Horne...it was so much fun. Especially listening to all the stories. Each song seemed to have a memory attatched.
After most of the family left, Sue started cutting hair. She didn't cut mine, although she was trying to talk me into letting her give me layers. I was so tempted but when I cut my hair back in November, a lot of my natural curl showed up and now my hair is wavy. The shorter areas sometimes look as if I have ringlets. I'm afraid to see how curly it will get if I take any more length off the top and sides. She said I could do it tonight if I feel like it. She leaves tomorrow.
Jocko's dad had quite a scare lastnight. His heartbeat was unstable and his blood pressure dropped way down. They were afraid that if they didn't bring it back up in time, his kidneys would fail. He managed to pull through but his family was told to expect another dip like that before he is fully recovered. Please continue to pray for him.
I stayed far enough away from her that she didn't feel the need to converse with me too much. When I finally relaxed, I was able to make small talk with her and the rest of the night was pretty good. There were tons of other family there, not just the siblings. The table was covered with pie, chips and dip, coffee, juice, and ice cream. I had one piece of pie...blueberry. Our Aunt Vivian was there. She especially liked the guacamole and we all loved that she kept calling it glaucoma. She knew its proper name, but told us all a story about a time she had a bit too much to drink and the harder she tried to pronounce guacamole, the more it sounded like glaucoma.
While we were eating, we enjoyed listening and singing along with Aunt Vivian's CD's. She had her granddaughter burn CD's with all of her favorite songs on them. Al Jolson, Frank Sinatra, Lena Horne...it was so much fun. Especially listening to all the stories. Each song seemed to have a memory attatched.
After most of the family left, Sue started cutting hair. She didn't cut mine, although she was trying to talk me into letting her give me layers. I was so tempted but when I cut my hair back in November, a lot of my natural curl showed up and now my hair is wavy. The shorter areas sometimes look as if I have ringlets. I'm afraid to see how curly it will get if I take any more length off the top and sides. She said I could do it tonight if I feel like it. She leaves tomorrow.
Jocko's dad had quite a scare lastnight. His heartbeat was unstable and his blood pressure dropped way down. They were afraid that if they didn't bring it back up in time, his kidneys would fail. He managed to pull through but his family was told to expect another dip like that before he is fully recovered. Please continue to pray for him.
Saturday, April 09, 2005
Crazy Weather
We had just about every kind of weather possible today. Sunshine, wind and rain, hail, wet snow, back to sun, more rain. Being without a vehicle made it difficult to get things done today. I had to make quick, mad dashes whenever it looked as if I could get somewhere and back without getting drenched or slammed with hail. It's days like this I'm so glad to live in a small town. Everything is about 5 mintues away.
I had to keep remining myself that today was actually Saturday and not Sunday. I still have all of next week to look forward to. After that, it's just one short month till Summer Break.
I skipped out on dinner with the family today. I know I have to face Sue soon enough. I just wasn't up to doing it alone. Tomorrow night we've been invited to share dessert with her. That I can handle...it's not until 7PM and we could use Michael's job as an excuse to cut out early. He starts at 6AM so it stands to reason he'll need to get to sleep early, right?
He has tomorrow off, though, so we're going to take a drive and watch some movies tonight. He'd been laid off so long, now that he's back at work, I miss him. He's working 12 hours a day. And with me home on Spring Break, that feels like a really long time.
I had to keep remining myself that today was actually Saturday and not Sunday. I still have all of next week to look forward to. After that, it's just one short month till Summer Break.
I skipped out on dinner with the family today. I know I have to face Sue soon enough. I just wasn't up to doing it alone. Tomorrow night we've been invited to share dessert with her. That I can handle...it's not until 7PM and we could use Michael's job as an excuse to cut out early. He starts at 6AM so it stands to reason he'll need to get to sleep early, right?
He has tomorrow off, though, so we're going to take a drive and watch some movies tonight. He'd been laid off so long, now that he's back at work, I miss him. He's working 12 hours a day. And with me home on Spring Break, that feels like a really long time.
Friday, April 08, 2005
First Day of Spring Break
Today has been a totally wasted day. I've just been lazing around the house. Haven't accomplished a thing.
The weather outside is beautiful. It's definitely springy out there. I may go for a walk soon...but I have to find the energy first. ha!
My husband started a job yesterday. Yay! He said the Dutch Harbor thing is still not out of the question, though...so I guess we'll see. He's supposed to be hearing from them by the 14th.
The widow of my husband's brother Merle has come to visit. She wants to see the head stone placed on the grave. She arrived yesterday but I haven't seen her yet. I'm actually dreading it. I lost respect for her after the funeral. She and her two kids were on a boat with Merle's only natural child. The conversation almost immediately went to insurance. How much was there, who gets a share, how big of a share. Sue, the widow, decided that since she was the recipient of the money she would split between herself and her two kids. What? What about Merle's son? When he tried to speak up, Sue's daughter said, "Why should we have to give up any money for you?" They were definitely showing their true colors. This after telling the rest of the family that Merle loved her kids like his own and she loved his son as her own. How much did she give this other "son" of hers? $1500.00! That's appalling. Merle's son has asked the family not to get involved. He said he doesn't want things to be about money. He's trying to keep the peace for his dad's sake. That doesn't mean I have to pretend to like her. Maybe someday, but I just can't face her. I'm afraid I might tell her what I think and that would be bad.
The weather outside is beautiful. It's definitely springy out there. I may go for a walk soon...but I have to find the energy first. ha!
My husband started a job yesterday. Yay! He said the Dutch Harbor thing is still not out of the question, though...so I guess we'll see. He's supposed to be hearing from them by the 14th.
The widow of my husband's brother Merle has come to visit. She wants to see the head stone placed on the grave. She arrived yesterday but I haven't seen her yet. I'm actually dreading it. I lost respect for her after the funeral. She and her two kids were on a boat with Merle's only natural child. The conversation almost immediately went to insurance. How much was there, who gets a share, how big of a share. Sue, the widow, decided that since she was the recipient of the money she would split between herself and her two kids. What? What about Merle's son? When he tried to speak up, Sue's daughter said, "Why should we have to give up any money for you?" They were definitely showing their true colors. This after telling the rest of the family that Merle loved her kids like his own and she loved his son as her own. How much did she give this other "son" of hers? $1500.00! That's appalling. Merle's son has asked the family not to get involved. He said he doesn't want things to be about money. He's trying to keep the peace for his dad's sake. That doesn't mean I have to pretend to like her. Maybe someday, but I just can't face her. I'm afraid I might tell her what I think and that would be bad.
Wednesday, April 06, 2005
Little Bits
Jocko's dad is in a hospital in Seattle. They removed the dead skin from both his arms today. His body responded well so on Friday they'll operate again and get most of the other burned skin. He's in critical but stable condition.
The fire apparently started in Jocko's bedroom. They're not saying how.
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Today was a long, boring day at work because of the testing. My morning was the longest because I didn't have any classes at all. Tomorrow, though, will be extremely busy. Two of my classes are not testing so they'll be in computers. Since we don't have school on Friday, I rescheduled 2 of my Friday computer classes to Thursday. So rather than 2 morning classes, I'll have 4. Normally, I have 3. I'll be ready for Spring Break by the time that 2:45 bell rings.
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I had Craig's class in library the other day. One of his classmates was trying to find a book in the non-fiction section. I encouraged him to go to the Easy Reader section to get a book at his reading level.
Craig heard me and said, "Yeah, these are Hard Readers and they're for 6th grade. Maybe 5th grade, right, Aunty Kerri?"
"Yes, Craig, that's correct," I lied. We usually let them start getting books from that part of the library in 2nd grade.
"You know what, Aunty Kerri? In 10th grade, they have really hard readers. 11th grade readers are very hard and 12th grade readers are even harder than that!"
I LOVE the way that kids mind works!
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Today was a nice spring day. The skies were blue almost the entire day and the wind has calmed down quite a bit. The temperature was about 49 but nobody complained. It was nice to see the blue skies.
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When we return from Spring Break, there will be one month left before graduation. The week after that we'll be off for the summer. I can't believe how fast this school year went by.
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By next week, we should know if Michael's going to leave for Dutch Harbor or not. I have mixed feelings about that. I kinda want him to go because it would be a good experience for him and it's been a long time since he's worked. At the same time, I want him to stay because it's almost construction season and he'll be back at work again. I feel like a yo-yo. Just when I think I've decided how I feel, I get yanked back and have to start all over.
The fire apparently started in Jocko's bedroom. They're not saying how.
****************************************
Today was a long, boring day at work because of the testing. My morning was the longest because I didn't have any classes at all. Tomorrow, though, will be extremely busy. Two of my classes are not testing so they'll be in computers. Since we don't have school on Friday, I rescheduled 2 of my Friday computer classes to Thursday. So rather than 2 morning classes, I'll have 4. Normally, I have 3. I'll be ready for Spring Break by the time that 2:45 bell rings.
****************************************
I had Craig's class in library the other day. One of his classmates was trying to find a book in the non-fiction section. I encouraged him to go to the Easy Reader section to get a book at his reading level.
Craig heard me and said, "Yeah, these are Hard Readers and they're for 6th grade. Maybe 5th grade, right, Aunty Kerri?"
"Yes, Craig, that's correct," I lied. We usually let them start getting books from that part of the library in 2nd grade.
"You know what, Aunty Kerri? In 10th grade, they have really hard readers. 11th grade readers are very hard and 12th grade readers are even harder than that!"
I LOVE the way that kids mind works!
****************************************
Today was a nice spring day. The skies were blue almost the entire day and the wind has calmed down quite a bit. The temperature was about 49 but nobody complained. It was nice to see the blue skies.
****************************************
When we return from Spring Break, there will be one month left before graduation. The week after that we'll be off for the summer. I can't believe how fast this school year went by.
***************************************
By next week, we should know if Michael's going to leave for Dutch Harbor or not. I have mixed feelings about that. I kinda want him to go because it would be a good experience for him and it's been a long time since he's worked. At the same time, I want him to stay because it's almost construction season and he'll be back at work again. I feel like a yo-yo. Just when I think I've decided how I feel, I get yanked back and have to start all over.
Tuesday, April 05, 2005
Listen to the Whispers of Heaven
Reach up to the heavens with arms open wide
Take hold of its beauty, breathe it inside
Take in its majesty, memorize its grand views
Engulf its bright lights and magnificent hues
Look above the aged trees that touch the sky
And listen to the whispers of the mourning cry
Listen through the whirring breezes and you can hear the names
Sobbing with great heartache, crying out with such pains
Names of all loved ones with silent prayers unsaid
Echoing with profoundness inside my head
And now the sun burns in my ears your sweet voice
Saying don't thirst for what once was, this is the Lord's choice
Now I know there's beauty below, but up here there's no compare
There's no pain, no heartache, there's no despair
You can lay your head upon the angel's knee
And know no pain, just filled with such glee
I know you miss me, I miss you too
But I'm sending an angel to watch over you
The angel will let you know I'm always near
To ease your heartache and wipe your tears
And the next time you reach up to the heavens above
You'll feel the kiss of all my love
So please don't let the grief consume your soul
And remember through God, you too can be whole
And when you think you can no longer stand
I'm up here in heaven with God, waiting to take hold of your hand
So listen beyond the whispers of the mourning and you'll see
I'm with the Lord our God
I'm finally free
:o)
From Kindergarten through the 12th grade, I had a best friend. We were so close, and together so often, people called us the Bobbsy Twins. We did everything together. I was her Maid of Honor, she was mine. The only thing we did not do alike, was have children. She's got 3, from 7 to 13 years old.
Since marriage and parenthood, we've drifted a little. I still consider her to be a very good friend, but finding time to spend together is difficult.
I have taught each of her children. I still have 2 of them. I'm always friendly with them, as they are with me.
The thing is, I haven't felt particularly close to them. I'm not usually involved with their family doings, nor them in mine. I had no idea who I was to them. Meaning, aside from being one of their teachers, I had no idea how they saw me. My friend has never told me how she refers to me.
Last night I got a phone call. I didn't recognize the phone number on caller ID. Michael answered and handed me the phone. I asked who it was and he shrugged. "Sounds like a little girl."
I took the phone and said hello.
"Aunty Kerri?"
"Yes," I replied, still trying to figure out who it was. I'm used to kids not related to me calling me Aunty. They hear it enough from my numerous nieces and nephews they probably think it's my name.
"This is Denise..." and she went on to ask me what she needed. She said thank you and we hung up.
"Wow." Was all I could say when I hung up.
Michael asked, "Who was it?"
"That was Denise...she called me Aunty!"
I was surprised, but delighted. I must have smiled for an hour afterwards.
Since marriage and parenthood, we've drifted a little. I still consider her to be a very good friend, but finding time to spend together is difficult.
I have taught each of her children. I still have 2 of them. I'm always friendly with them, as they are with me.
The thing is, I haven't felt particularly close to them. I'm not usually involved with their family doings, nor them in mine. I had no idea who I was to them. Meaning, aside from being one of their teachers, I had no idea how they saw me. My friend has never told me how she refers to me.
Last night I got a phone call. I didn't recognize the phone number on caller ID. Michael answered and handed me the phone. I asked who it was and he shrugged. "Sounds like a little girl."
I took the phone and said hello.
"Aunty Kerri?"
"Yes," I replied, still trying to figure out who it was. I'm used to kids not related to me calling me Aunty. They hear it enough from my numerous nieces and nephews they probably think it's my name.
"This is Denise..." and she went on to ask me what she needed. She said thank you and we hung up.
"Wow." Was all I could say when I hung up.
Michael asked, "Who was it?"
"That was Denise...she called me Aunty!"
I was surprised, but delighted. I must have smiled for an hour afterwards.
Monday, April 04, 2005
As Long As I Don't Turn My Head
I feel like I have a pinched nerve in the back of my shoulder. It's been aching for 2 days now. Today is worse than yesterday, though, because now it hurts to move my head. That's not good when you have recess duty. I have to turn my head in order to monitor all the kids. By the end of the 20 minutes I was on duty I was almost in tears.
On the plus side, testing doesn't start until tomorrow so the kids were pretty good.
I'm going to sign off now...hurts to have my hand on the keyboard. But really, I'm fine. As long as I don't turn my head.
On the plus side, testing doesn't start until tomorrow so the kids were pretty good.
I'm going to sign off now...hurts to have my hand on the keyboard. But really, I'm fine. As long as I don't turn my head.
Sunday, April 03, 2005
Weirdness
I have been having some pretty strange dreams lately. The past couple nights, my dreams are more like home movies. It's like I'm reliving the past. All the people who have passed on have been "visiting" me in my dreams. I'd remember something that happened years ago and then after seeing it all happen again, whoever it involved would somehow find their way into what appeared to be my present life. We'd sit and talk as if they were never gone.
Those dreams are comforting, in a way. But I've also had these dreams where disasters are happening. Things that I have no power to stop and they always end badly. I wake up in a cold sweat almost in tears and all tensed up.
Last night I had a different sort of problem. Rather than waking up from weird dreams, I couldn't get to sleep. I was awake until well after 3AM. I'm not sure if the exact time because I covered the clock. I tried everything I could think of and just could not get to sleep. Strange thing is, I don't feel tired today.
Hopefully, I'll be able to fall asleep at a halfway decent hour tonight and have a restfull nights sleep. This coming week at school is going to be chaotic. The kids are doing state testing and it's a short week because Spring Break starts on Friday and we'll be off until the 18th. The kids are going to be a mix of emotions which can drastically change their behavior. Oy.
Those dreams are comforting, in a way. But I've also had these dreams where disasters are happening. Things that I have no power to stop and they always end badly. I wake up in a cold sweat almost in tears and all tensed up.
Last night I had a different sort of problem. Rather than waking up from weird dreams, I couldn't get to sleep. I was awake until well after 3AM. I'm not sure if the exact time because I covered the clock. I tried everything I could think of and just could not get to sleep. Strange thing is, I don't feel tired today.
Hopefully, I'll be able to fall asleep at a halfway decent hour tonight and have a restfull nights sleep. This coming week at school is going to be chaotic. The kids are doing state testing and it's a short week because Spring Break starts on Friday and we'll be off until the 18th. The kids are going to be a mix of emotions which can drastically change their behavior. Oy.
Friday, April 01, 2005
Not a Good Day
Today has been especially hard for our small, close-knit community.
As a teenager, I did a lot of babysitting. One of the families I babysat for had 3 girls and 1 boy. The boy, nicknamed "Jocko", was like Jekyll and Hyde. Some days, he'd be a terror, others he was sweet and adorable. Okay, most days...at least most of the days I choose to remember.
Anyway, his 20th birthday was coming up in July. He'll never see it.
His family's home caught on fire early this morning. His parents and sisters all escaped. Nobody knows why Jocko didn't leave the house. I'm hoping he was asleep, because thinking otherwise will give me nightmares for the rest of my life. His father ran back into the burning home to try and find him. He came back out on fire himself, unable to save his son.
We lost Jocko and his dad has been sent to Seattle with multiple 3rd degree burns. His youngest sister is just a freshman in high school.
As a teenager, I did a lot of babysitting. One of the families I babysat for had 3 girls and 1 boy. The boy, nicknamed "Jocko", was like Jekyll and Hyde. Some days, he'd be a terror, others he was sweet and adorable. Okay, most days...at least most of the days I choose to remember.
Anyway, his 20th birthday was coming up in July. He'll never see it.
His family's home caught on fire early this morning. His parents and sisters all escaped. Nobody knows why Jocko didn't leave the house. I'm hoping he was asleep, because thinking otherwise will give me nightmares for the rest of my life. His father ran back into the burning home to try and find him. He came back out on fire himself, unable to save his son.
We lost Jocko and his dad has been sent to Seattle with multiple 3rd degree burns. His youngest sister is just a freshman in high school.
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