But four spam comments on one post is ridiculous. Especially when I only get read by a handful of people (and I have really small hands).
I've turned on Word Verification to try and nip it in the bud. I hope that doesn't inconvenience any of you!
Wednesday, August 31, 2005
Tuesday, August 30, 2005
They Move Out Today!
Today’s the last day I have my niece and nephew with me. After dinner, they’ll go home and pack some clothes and tomorrow morning head down to Seattle to attend their mother’s graduation from the Physician’s Assistant program at the University of Washington.
For the most part, things have gone smoothly. We just finally hit a bump in the road this morning and it was totally preventable if she had only listened to me!
I was supposed to just have my nephew. Alexys was going to stay at her house under the supervision of her mother’s boyfriend. She decided at the last minute to stay and only packed one change of clothes.
So, Sunday afternoon she decided to go home and get more clothes and stay with me for a few more days. As she was walking out the door, I told her to grab a jacket. All she had was a sweatshirt and I knew we’d be getting rain. Rain is inevitable here in SE Alaska.
She came back with more clothes but no jacket. When I asked her why, she said she didn’t need one. If it rained, she would stay indoors or under the covered basketball court.
She left last night and I told her not to get wet. She again promised to avoid the rain if it started by finding shelter. She came home and she was drenched.
She hung her sweatshirt up but it was still soaked this morning, as were her shoes. I told her to call her house and ask that Mark bring her a jacket and some dry shoes. She refused. She threw her sweatshirt and her shoes in my dryer. They were in there for almost half an hour before the dryer stopped. It had been set for 60 minutes. I’m hoping one of her shoes hit the door latch in such a way as to cause it to open and stop the dryer. If that wasn’t the case, I’m in trouble and I don’t have a repair man to call like Fizzy did.
She removed her things from the dryer and told me they were dry. I asked her why she didn’t grab a jacket when I told her to. She said, “All I have are big winter coats.”
I said, “Well, at least it would have kept you dry.”
She shot me a look and walked out of the room. I didn’t push it any further except to tell her that when I ask something of her, I expect her to do it. She’s 14 going on 30. Arguing about it wouldn’t have done any good.
As far as work goes, I finally got the tech guy to fix my testing software so I get to start testing today. Yay! Haha…I’m so not excited about it. Testing is stressful. I do it 5 times a year and it’s always stressful.
Thank you all for your well wishes. I had an excellent birthday even though I didn’t have a party or anything. Michael called me at work and sang to me, my mom and sister called, my dad came to visit and brought me some new clothes, I got some nice e-cards, teachers at work sang to me, Akeskileut CALLED me…it was just a great day all around!
For the most part, things have gone smoothly. We just finally hit a bump in the road this morning and it was totally preventable if she had only listened to me!
I was supposed to just have my nephew. Alexys was going to stay at her house under the supervision of her mother’s boyfriend. She decided at the last minute to stay and only packed one change of clothes.
So, Sunday afternoon she decided to go home and get more clothes and stay with me for a few more days. As she was walking out the door, I told her to grab a jacket. All she had was a sweatshirt and I knew we’d be getting rain. Rain is inevitable here in SE Alaska.
She came back with more clothes but no jacket. When I asked her why, she said she didn’t need one. If it rained, she would stay indoors or under the covered basketball court.
She left last night and I told her not to get wet. She again promised to avoid the rain if it started by finding shelter. She came home and she was drenched.
She hung her sweatshirt up but it was still soaked this morning, as were her shoes. I told her to call her house and ask that Mark bring her a jacket and some dry shoes. She refused. She threw her sweatshirt and her shoes in my dryer. They were in there for almost half an hour before the dryer stopped. It had been set for 60 minutes. I’m hoping one of her shoes hit the door latch in such a way as to cause it to open and stop the dryer. If that wasn’t the case, I’m in trouble and I don’t have a repair man to call like Fizzy did.
She removed her things from the dryer and told me they were dry. I asked her why she didn’t grab a jacket when I told her to. She said, “All I have are big winter coats.”
I said, “Well, at least it would have kept you dry.”
She shot me a look and walked out of the room. I didn’t push it any further except to tell her that when I ask something of her, I expect her to do it. She’s 14 going on 30. Arguing about it wouldn’t have done any good.
As far as work goes, I finally got the tech guy to fix my testing software so I get to start testing today. Yay! Haha…I’m so not excited about it. Testing is stressful. I do it 5 times a year and it’s always stressful.
Thank you all for your well wishes. I had an excellent birthday even though I didn’t have a party or anything. Michael called me at work and sang to me, my mom and sister called, my dad came to visit and brought me some new clothes, I got some nice e-cards, teachers at work sang to me, Akeskileut CALLED me…it was just a great day all around!
Monday, August 29, 2005
Sunday, August 28, 2005
Saturday, August 27, 2005
Fun Facts About Virgo
The following article is from the MSN Astrology site. I don’t normally read my horoscope or anything of that nature, but I must say a lot of this is true to me. I particularly like the last bit that mentions some famous Virgos.
Fun Facts About Virgo
By the Astrocenter Team
With an acute attention to detail, the Virgo is the sign in the zodiac most dedicated to serving. Their deep sense of the humane leads them to caregiving like no other, while their methodical approach to life ensures that nothing is missed. The Virgo is often gentle and delicate, preferring to step back and analyze before moving ahead.
Friends and Family
A Virgo is a helpful friend to have indeed. They are excellent at giving advice, and they really know how to problem solve. You'll find that a Virgo will remind you to take good care of yourself, as health is a focal point for them. And when the meal is done, they'll be the first to jump up and start the dishes. Loving and dedicated to family, the Virgo is also first on the scene when care is needed. When someone reaches old age or is ill, the Virgo will be there doing all that is needed. The Virgo is not known for showing their feelings. They prefer to show through deed than by word.
Career and Money
"I analyze" is the key phrase for the Virgo personality, while "practicality" is the keyword. Industrious, discriminating, and scientific by nature, the Virgo really knows how to get to the heart of the matter. They are exceptionally methodical and do well in jobs that require organization. If there's anything out of order, set a Virgo to the task!When focused on a task, the Virgo will push themselves to perfection, leaving no stone unturned. They are exacting and take great pride in a job done to the absolute best of their ability. When they feel their talent falls short, they'll turn to the books to learn whatever they need to improve. Careers suited to this sign include being a doctor, nurse, psychologist, teacher, writer, and critic.Virgos are excellent with their money. They generally keep a strict grasp on what they spend, and strive to put away as much money as they can. They plan well in advance for expenditures, and when it comes to shopping, they aren't apt to overspend. Every now and then the Virgo can be seen buying themselves something of beauty, though. They love the arts and enjoy decorating their homes with taste.
Love and Sex
It's important for the Virgo lover to feel needed by their mates. Outside of the bedroom is where the majority of foreplay is going to happen for this sign. Tactile, methodical and willing to take as long as is needed, they make excellent lovers. Even though the Virgo won't express many words of love, they will show their affections in the bedroom. Virgos prefer to have a few strong connections rather than many partners. Life partners are chosen based on how important and needed the Virgo feels they are in their lives. They are dedicated spouses that love to live on the wild side once and a while.
VIRGO TIDBITS
Virgo Birthdays
August 22 - September 22
Health
Each sign has a part of the anatomy attached to it, making this the area of the body most sensitive to stimulation. The anatomical areas for Virgo are the intestines, liver, pancreas, gall bladder, lower plexus, and the upper bowel.
Ruling Planet
The ruling planet for Virgo is Mercury. Representing intellectual urge and the avenue of expression, this planet rules reason, rationalization, words, awareness and communication. Its action is quick and it also deals with travel, speaking, writing, trade, and emotional capacity and technique.
Colors
The colors of choice for Virgo are green and dark brown.
Gemstone
Virgo's star stone is the sardonyx - the reddish brown variety.
Lucky Numbers
Virgo's lucky numbers are 2, 5, and 7.
Compatibility
Virgos are most compatible with Capricorn and Taurus.
Opposite Sign
The opposite sign for Virgo is Pisces.
The Perfect Gift
The best gifts for a Virgo are health-related items.
Likes
Animals, beauty, eating healthy, orderliness.
Dislikes
Sloppiness, squalor, being wrong, chaos.
House
Natural sign of the Sixth House. This house focuses on health, habits, unconscious mind, service given, work, pets.
Famous Virgos
Stephen King, Charlie Sheen, Mother Teresa, Sophia Loren, and Mickey Mouse
Fun Facts About Virgo
By the Astrocenter Team
With an acute attention to detail, the Virgo is the sign in the zodiac most dedicated to serving. Their deep sense of the humane leads them to caregiving like no other, while their methodical approach to life ensures that nothing is missed. The Virgo is often gentle and delicate, preferring to step back and analyze before moving ahead.
Friends and Family
A Virgo is a helpful friend to have indeed. They are excellent at giving advice, and they really know how to problem solve. You'll find that a Virgo will remind you to take good care of yourself, as health is a focal point for them. And when the meal is done, they'll be the first to jump up and start the dishes. Loving and dedicated to family, the Virgo is also first on the scene when care is needed. When someone reaches old age or is ill, the Virgo will be there doing all that is needed. The Virgo is not known for showing their feelings. They prefer to show through deed than by word.
Career and Money
"I analyze" is the key phrase for the Virgo personality, while "practicality" is the keyword. Industrious, discriminating, and scientific by nature, the Virgo really knows how to get to the heart of the matter. They are exceptionally methodical and do well in jobs that require organization. If there's anything out of order, set a Virgo to the task!When focused on a task, the Virgo will push themselves to perfection, leaving no stone unturned. They are exacting and take great pride in a job done to the absolute best of their ability. When they feel their talent falls short, they'll turn to the books to learn whatever they need to improve. Careers suited to this sign include being a doctor, nurse, psychologist, teacher, writer, and critic.Virgos are excellent with their money. They generally keep a strict grasp on what they spend, and strive to put away as much money as they can. They plan well in advance for expenditures, and when it comes to shopping, they aren't apt to overspend. Every now and then the Virgo can be seen buying themselves something of beauty, though. They love the arts and enjoy decorating their homes with taste.
Love and Sex
It's important for the Virgo lover to feel needed by their mates. Outside of the bedroom is where the majority of foreplay is going to happen for this sign. Tactile, methodical and willing to take as long as is needed, they make excellent lovers. Even though the Virgo won't express many words of love, they will show their affections in the bedroom. Virgos prefer to have a few strong connections rather than many partners. Life partners are chosen based on how important and needed the Virgo feels they are in their lives. They are dedicated spouses that love to live on the wild side once and a while.
VIRGO TIDBITS
Virgo Birthdays
August 22 - September 22
Health
Each sign has a part of the anatomy attached to it, making this the area of the body most sensitive to stimulation. The anatomical areas for Virgo are the intestines, liver, pancreas, gall bladder, lower plexus, and the upper bowel.
Ruling Planet
The ruling planet for Virgo is Mercury. Representing intellectual urge and the avenue of expression, this planet rules reason, rationalization, words, awareness and communication. Its action is quick and it also deals with travel, speaking, writing, trade, and emotional capacity and technique.
Colors
The colors of choice for Virgo are green and dark brown.
Gemstone
Virgo's star stone is the sardonyx - the reddish brown variety.
Lucky Numbers
Virgo's lucky numbers are 2, 5, and 7.
Compatibility
Virgos are most compatible with Capricorn and Taurus.
Opposite Sign
The opposite sign for Virgo is Pisces.
The Perfect Gift
The best gifts for a Virgo are health-related items.
Likes
Animals, beauty, eating healthy, orderliness.
Dislikes
Sloppiness, squalor, being wrong, chaos.
House
Natural sign of the Sixth House. This house focuses on health, habits, unconscious mind, service given, work, pets.
Famous Virgos
Stephen King, Charlie Sheen, Mother Teresa, Sophia Loren, and Mickey Mouse
Friday, August 26, 2005
Getting Closer...
I had a short visit with my boss today. He introduced me to the new science teacher. It seems I’m going to be working with her for part of my day. That I kind of expected. What I didn’t expect, was to be pulled out of the Library. Last year, he had me doing the computer end of it. That included bar-coding books, maintaining the data base, and doing book check in/out. This year I’m supposed to be able to do all that without actually being a part of the Library program.
One good thing that came of this crazy new schedule is the time allotted to each class has been increased. Rather than a short half an hour, they get 40 minutes. It’s still a short period and it’s still just once a week, but I’ll take what I can get.
Next week, if we can get the testing software up and running will be crazy because I’ve got to enter all the new students and start getting everyone tested. (The tech guy admitted that he hasn’t even thought about it all week! GRrrrrrrrrr!)
I took a late lunch today and it’s just about over so I guess I better cut this short. This is my first attempt to blog from work…I’m crossing my fingers it works.
One good thing that came of this crazy new schedule is the time allotted to each class has been increased. Rather than a short half an hour, they get 40 minutes. It’s still a short period and it’s still just once a week, but I’ll take what I can get.
Next week, if we can get the testing software up and running will be crazy because I’ve got to enter all the new students and start getting everyone tested. (The tech guy admitted that he hasn’t even thought about it all week! GRrrrrrrrrr!)
I took a late lunch today and it’s just about over so I guess I better cut this short. This is my first attempt to blog from work…I’m crossing my fingers it works.
Wednesday, August 24, 2005
My Boss is Driving Me Crazy!
Yesterday, he told me to go around to each teacher and ask them when they wanted computer class. He said, "Don't lock them into the morning." I started on my way and he called me back. "Oh, by the way, you're doing Library every day from 1:30 to 2:30, and I'll also need you to do recess duty for both lunch periods. Upper elementary gets 40 minutes in the lab, and lower elementary will have 35. Go get your schedule made."
By giving me recess duty and Library class, HE locked the teachers into the morning. But I did what I was told. I spent all afternoon yesterday running in circles trying to track down teachers and get my computer classes scheduled. It looked kind of lopsided after they made their choices. I turned it in, anyway. I fully expected to have a discussion about it today.
Sure enough, I got to work and in my mailbox was a schedule that looked NOTHING like the one I spent all afternoon creating with a note on it that said, "Let's visit."
I tried all day to "visit" with him and every time I looked at him he'd say, "Not now, I'll get to you later."
Finally, at the end of the day, I passed him in the hall. He asked how I was doing. I said, "I'd be doing a lot better if I knew what my schedule was."
"Didn't you get it in your box?"
"Yes, I did. But what you gave me makes no sense to me." (I'm so thankful to have a boss I can speak freely with.)
"Oh, we'll talk tomorrow then."
To which I said, "Okay, then I guess computer class is cancelled until we have our visit. I'll start up on Monday."
He said, "Good idea. I think I'll cancel all the specials until Monday."
So, hopefully, tomorrow I'll know just how much time I get in the computer lab and how much time I have to spend in the Math/Science lab. I already know my Library schedule.
Today was a very long day but I did manage to get some things accomplished. I hope I can corner my boss first thing tomorrow so I don't have to chase him around all day.
By giving me recess duty and Library class, HE locked the teachers into the morning. But I did what I was told. I spent all afternoon yesterday running in circles trying to track down teachers and get my computer classes scheduled. It looked kind of lopsided after they made their choices. I turned it in, anyway. I fully expected to have a discussion about it today.
Sure enough, I got to work and in my mailbox was a schedule that looked NOTHING like the one I spent all afternoon creating with a note on it that said, "Let's visit."
I tried all day to "visit" with him and every time I looked at him he'd say, "Not now, I'll get to you later."
Finally, at the end of the day, I passed him in the hall. He asked how I was doing. I said, "I'd be doing a lot better if I knew what my schedule was."
"Didn't you get it in your box?"
"Yes, I did. But what you gave me makes no sense to me." (I'm so thankful to have a boss I can speak freely with.)
"Oh, we'll talk tomorrow then."
To which I said, "Okay, then I guess computer class is cancelled until we have our visit. I'll start up on Monday."
He said, "Good idea. I think I'll cancel all the specials until Monday."
So, hopefully, tomorrow I'll know just how much time I get in the computer lab and how much time I have to spend in the Math/Science lab. I already know my Library schedule.
Today was a very long day but I did manage to get some things accomplished. I hope I can corner my boss first thing tomorrow so I don't have to chase him around all day.
Tuesday, August 23, 2005
Thank You
About a year ago, I got a comment on my blog. Somebody found my blog by hitting the "Next Blog" button. That was a day I'll never forget. Partly because she was one of the first to comment, and partly because, almost instantly, I sort of felt connected.
Strange, I know...that I could feel a connection towards someone I didn't know...from so far away...so quickly. But I swear I did.
I clicked my "Next Blog" button and somehow ended up at her site. Coincidence? Fate? Whatever it was, I bookmarked her.
The more I read about her, the more I realized how much we really had in common. We're totally different, yet somehow similar.
She has a way of understanding what I'm saying. She "gets" me. Not a lot of people do. All those miles away, I know that if I need a friend, she'd be willing to listen...to offer encouragement...whatever it takes.
Yesterday, (Yes, yesterday...your mail person was right!) I got a package in the mail. She says it's not her best work, but I love it. It means a lot to me that she made it and whenever I use it, I'll think of her fondly. Thank you, Jayleigh, for being so thoughtful. Thank you for sending it. Thank you for being a friend.
I was trying it on when Lucione took this picture. (NO, Akeskileut, I did not cover my mouth on purpose!) I was actually trying to take it off. She snapped the picture without my knowing and there was no way I was going to pose to get a better one. hehe
Strange, I know...that I could feel a connection towards someone I didn't know...from so far away...so quickly. But I swear I did.
I clicked my "Next Blog" button and somehow ended up at her site. Coincidence? Fate? Whatever it was, I bookmarked her.
The more I read about her, the more I realized how much we really had in common. We're totally different, yet somehow similar.
She has a way of understanding what I'm saying. She "gets" me. Not a lot of people do. All those miles away, I know that if I need a friend, she'd be willing to listen...to offer encouragement...whatever it takes.
Yesterday, (Yes, yesterday...your mail person was right!) I got a package in the mail. She says it's not her best work, but I love it. It means a lot to me that she made it and whenever I use it, I'll think of her fondly. Thank you, Jayleigh, for being so thoughtful. Thank you for sending it. Thank you for being a friend.
Monday, August 22, 2005
My First Day
My first day of work was not all that bad. We had a district meeting at 8AM so that all of the old staff could meet the new staff. We heard from the mayor, the chief of police, and the school board.
Then the elementary staff met with a visitor from Oklahoma. He told us all about some new technology we gained over the summer. It consisted of a Smart Board and something called an H.313 or something like that. It allows us to connect to any other computer anywhere in the world with to same video conferencing ability.
The uses of this technology are endless. It’s only limited only by our imagination. We can take courses from other high schools or colleges and universities. We can have cultural exchanges with classes from the other side of the world. We can visit the Smithsonian without leaving our classroom. And the best thing about it is that it is fully interactive. Sure, we’ll be sitting in front of a tv screen, but once the presenter has completed his presentation, the students can comment and ask questions. It will be so much more meaningful than watching a video or reading a book. I really hope the technology gets utilized in such a way that it broadens the students’ minds and helps them to get excited about this huge world we live in. Some of these kids may never leave this island, this is an awesome opportunity for them to see what the rest of the world has to offer.
My afternoon was terribly boring compared to my morning. I couldn’t accomplish anything I needed to because the new tech guy was busy with an inservice at the high school and I wasn’t able to access the programs I needed to enter student names into the test programs or barcode some new library books we received over the summer.
Tomorrow morning we have another inservice and then, hopefully, a more productive afternoon.
BTW, if you’re tired of typing up a long post and losing it before you publish, you should try the new Blogger Add-On for Microsoft Word. I just typed up this post, published it, and then opened it for editing all in Microsoft Word. I didn’t even need to open my web browser!
Then the elementary staff met with a visitor from Oklahoma. He told us all about some new technology we gained over the summer. It consisted of a Smart Board and something called an H.313 or something like that. It allows us to connect to any other computer anywhere in the world with to same video conferencing ability.
The uses of this technology are endless. It’s only limited only by our imagination. We can take courses from other high schools or colleges and universities. We can have cultural exchanges with classes from the other side of the world. We can visit the Smithsonian without leaving our classroom. And the best thing about it is that it is fully interactive. Sure, we’ll be sitting in front of a tv screen, but once the presenter has completed his presentation, the students can comment and ask questions. It will be so much more meaningful than watching a video or reading a book. I really hope the technology gets utilized in such a way that it broadens the students’ minds and helps them to get excited about this huge world we live in. Some of these kids may never leave this island, this is an awesome opportunity for them to see what the rest of the world has to offer.
My afternoon was terribly boring compared to my morning. I couldn’t accomplish anything I needed to because the new tech guy was busy with an inservice at the high school and I wasn’t able to access the programs I needed to enter student names into the test programs or barcode some new library books we received over the summer.
Tomorrow morning we have another inservice and then, hopefully, a more productive afternoon.
BTW, if you’re tired of typing up a long post and losing it before you publish, you should try the new Blogger Add-On for Microsoft Word. I just typed up this post, published it, and then opened it for editing all in Microsoft Word. I didn’t even need to open my web browser!
Wish Me Luck
I guess there's no avoiding the inevitable. Today is my first day back to work. I still don't feel like working, but I'll go...and make the best of it. If nothing else, it will keep me occupied.
As usual, we start off with 3 days of inservice. What's different this year, is the fact that those 3 days of inservice are not followed by 2 classroom prep days. The kids start on Thursday. The classroom prep day is on Saturday. How crazy is that? Some teachers have already begun their classroom prep, but not all of them have...and some have just moved to town so have to set up house and classroom all at once.
They've hired yet another tech coordinator. I swear that job has the quickest turnaround out of all the positions in the district. Every time I get used to a person and start to feel comfortable with them, they leave and I'm back at square one. This new guy has been here for over a month already, but I haven't met him. He's already been caught sleeping on the job at least once. I'm hoping it was the summer heat that got to him and he'll actually be awake this school year!
Time to say my goodbyes to Michael. He'll only be gone a week and a half this time!
I'll post all about my first day later on.
As usual, we start off with 3 days of inservice. What's different this year, is the fact that those 3 days of inservice are not followed by 2 classroom prep days. The kids start on Thursday. The classroom prep day is on Saturday. How crazy is that? Some teachers have already begun their classroom prep, but not all of them have...and some have just moved to town so have to set up house and classroom all at once.
They've hired yet another tech coordinator. I swear that job has the quickest turnaround out of all the positions in the district. Every time I get used to a person and start to feel comfortable with them, they leave and I'm back at square one. This new guy has been here for over a month already, but I haven't met him. He's already been caught sleeping on the job at least once. I'm hoping it was the summer heat that got to him and he'll actually be awake this school year!
Time to say my goodbyes to Michael. He'll only be gone a week and a half this time!
I'll post all about my first day later on.
Friday, August 19, 2005
No Longer in Limbo!
Michael knocked on the door last night around 9PM. His sisters dropped him off and thought it would be funny if he knocked on his own door. I could hear them laughing in the car when I opened the door. Silly ladies.
Anyway, he found a boat to take him home and didn't expect it to take so long so didn't call before he left. He left 2 hours after we talked and it took him another 2 hours to get home.
I was so glad to see him when I opened the door. He was just as glad to be home. I think this is just the beginning of a lot of travel worries ahead of us this fall/winter.
He came home bearing gifts. My birthday is in about 10 days and since he won't be here, he gave them to me right away. I got 3 blouses, 4 pairs of pants, a movie called The Wedding Date, Season 1 of The Muppet Show on DVD, an MP3 player, and a webcam. I must say, he's got excellent taste in clothes. He bought nice looking clothes in the right size!
He also bought some back packs and filled them with school supplies for Lucione and Lindsey. We're trying to track them down so they can come visit and see what they got.
Speaking of which, I've got phone calls to make. I just wanted to make sure you all knew he made it home safely and all is well. :o)
Anyway, he found a boat to take him home and didn't expect it to take so long so didn't call before he left. He left 2 hours after we talked and it took him another 2 hours to get home.
I was so glad to see him when I opened the door. He was just as glad to be home. I think this is just the beginning of a lot of travel worries ahead of us this fall/winter.
He came home bearing gifts. My birthday is in about 10 days and since he won't be here, he gave them to me right away. I got 3 blouses, 4 pairs of pants, a movie called The Wedding Date, Season 1 of The Muppet Show on DVD, an MP3 player, and a webcam. I must say, he's got excellent taste in clothes. He bought nice looking clothes in the right size!
He also bought some back packs and filled them with school supplies for Lucione and Lindsey. We're trying to track them down so they can come visit and see what they got.
Speaking of which, I've got phone calls to make. I just wanted to make sure you all knew he made it home safely and all is well. :o)
Thursday, August 18, 2005
Please Pray for Rebekah!
I'm following Jayleigh's lead and asking all who read this to please visit Rebekah's blog and remember her in your prayers.
I Hate Being in Limbo
I'm stuck in limbo. Michael is in Town. Our nephew was supposed to go pick him up by boat but decided not to AFTER Michael's jet landed. He said the water was too rough. The Alder trees aren't even moving...there's barely a breeze.
The last time I talked to Michael was an hour and a half ago. He was going to see if planes were flying or try to find a boat who could take him home. He hasn't called so I don't know if he's on his way or just putting off telling me he's stuck over there to keep from upsetting me.
Our dinner is all ready to put in the oven. I wanted it nice and hot when he got home so I haven't cooked it yet. So now I'm starving...and worrying...and wondering if/when he'll get home.
The last time I talked to Michael was an hour and a half ago. He was going to see if planes were flying or try to find a boat who could take him home. He hasn't called so I don't know if he's on his way or just putting off telling me he's stuck over there to keep from upsetting me.
Our dinner is all ready to put in the oven. I wanted it nice and hot when he got home so I haven't cooked it yet. So now I'm starving...and worrying...and wondering if/when he'll get home.
Monday, August 15, 2005
Monday Madness
I've decided to play Monday Madness again.
This week's questions are all about you! Nothing personal; just for fun...
1. On what day of the week were you born?
2. Do you look forward to birthdays?
3. How do you usually celebrate your birthday?
4. Do you like surprises?
5. Has anyone ever thrown you a surprise party?
6. How many family and friends' birthdays can you remember right off the top of your head?
7. Do you send cards to your family and friends on their birthday?
8. What kind of cake do you like?
9. What kind of ice cream goes best with it?
10. When is your birthday? (You don't have to share the year with us if you answer this question.)
1. I was born on a Sunday.
2. I don't really look forward to my own birthday. I don't mind getting older, I just don't like being the center of attention.
3. Usually, my husband will bake me a cake and as much as I try to keep things under wraps, his family always manages to show up and make a big deal of it and embarrass the heck outta me. hehe
4. It takes a lot to surprise me, but I love it when people try.
5. When I turned 15, my mom had been gone a couple years already. I hadn't had a birthday party since she left. My cousin invited me to "dinner" one day. I walked in and saw all my friends there. I went to ask my cousin what was going on and spotted a cake on the dining room table. It said, "Happy Birthday Kerri and Bub." My cousin's son has a birthday on the 2nd of August, but he was out fishing so my cousin surprised me and combined our birthdays. It was the only surprise party I've ever had.
6. I have the annoying ability to remember numbers. Be it a phone number or a date. If you tell me your birthday, chances are, I'll remember. So the number of birthdays I actually have filed away in my brain is quite high. It drives me nuts sometimes.
7. I send cards when I have cards available. I always call my family on their birthdays.
8. I love pineapple upside-down cake, which is what I've requested for this year. Spice cake with cream cheese frosting is a close 2nd.
9. Cherry Jubilee goes great with pineapple upside-down cake. I'd choose plain ol' vanilla to go with spice cake.
10. My birthday is on August 29th.
This week's questions are all about you! Nothing personal; just for fun...
1. On what day of the week were you born?
2. Do you look forward to birthdays?
3. How do you usually celebrate your birthday?
4. Do you like surprises?
5. Has anyone ever thrown you a surprise party?
6. How many family and friends' birthdays can you remember right off the top of your head?
7. Do you send cards to your family and friends on their birthday?
8. What kind of cake do you like?
9. What kind of ice cream goes best with it?
10. When is your birthday? (You don't have to share the year with us if you answer this question.)
1. I was born on a Sunday.
2. I don't really look forward to my own birthday. I don't mind getting older, I just don't like being the center of attention.
3. Usually, my husband will bake me a cake and as much as I try to keep things under wraps, his family always manages to show up and make a big deal of it and embarrass the heck outta me. hehe
4. It takes a lot to surprise me, but I love it when people try.
5. When I turned 15, my mom had been gone a couple years already. I hadn't had a birthday party since she left. My cousin invited me to "dinner" one day. I walked in and saw all my friends there. I went to ask my cousin what was going on and spotted a cake on the dining room table. It said, "Happy Birthday Kerri and Bub." My cousin's son has a birthday on the 2nd of August, but he was out fishing so my cousin surprised me and combined our birthdays. It was the only surprise party I've ever had.
6. I have the annoying ability to remember numbers. Be it a phone number or a date. If you tell me your birthday, chances are, I'll remember. So the number of birthdays I actually have filed away in my brain is quite high. It drives me nuts sometimes.
7. I send cards when I have cards available. I always call my family on their birthdays.
8. I love pineapple upside-down cake, which is what I've requested for this year. Spice cake with cream cheese frosting is a close 2nd.
9. Cherry Jubilee goes great with pineapple upside-down cake. I'd choose plain ol' vanilla to go with spice cake.
10. My birthday is on August 29th.
Friday, August 12, 2005
10 Days and Counting
No, I'm not counting down to another one of Michael's visits (he'll be here in 6 days, in case you're wondering). It's actually a short 10 days until I go back to work. I can't believe the summer has gone by so quickly. I remember back at the beginning of June wondering what I would do all summer. Now it's almost over and I'm wondering what I did.
It seems all I did was take care of my sister-in-law's kids. I know it was meant to keep me occupied but it's getting old. I'm actually dreading my job this year because I don't feel I've had a break. Granted, I did have a few days alone but most of those were spent cleaning up getting ready for the next time I'd have a visitor.
I'm thankful in that it kept my mind busy so that I didn't have time to dwell on how lonesome I was, but how am I going to learn to be on my own if they won't let me?
I have absolutely no motivation to teach right now and that scares me. I'm used to returning back to work feeling rejuvenated and ready to go. Now I just want to run away.
It seems all I did was take care of my sister-in-law's kids. I know it was meant to keep me occupied but it's getting old. I'm actually dreading my job this year because I don't feel I've had a break. Granted, I did have a few days alone but most of those were spent cleaning up getting ready for the next time I'd have a visitor.
I'm thankful in that it kept my mind busy so that I didn't have time to dwell on how lonesome I was, but how am I going to learn to be on my own if they won't let me?
I have absolutely no motivation to teach right now and that scares me. I'm used to returning back to work feeling rejuvenated and ready to go. Now I just want to run away.
Tuesday, August 09, 2005
Founders Day
Founders Day was on Sunday, August 7th. 118 years ago, a group of people moved here from B.C. Canada to start a new community and gain religious freedom. As natives, they were discouraged from attending chruch. As Christians, they were discouraged from participating in cultural events. That is why we almost lost our culture. The people who originally founded this community were lead to believe that they had to live one way or the other. If they wanted to be a part of this new Christian community, they would have to turn their backs on anything related to their culture. They eventually realized that they could have both and our culture is coming back stronger every year.
Our Founders Day celebrations are similar to our Independence Day celebrations in that we have a parade followed by races and contests. It's always a lot of fun and this time, we had gorgeous weather!
Here's our ferry putting on a show. This ferry is a part of the Alaska Marine Highway fleet, but it only services our community. In the next few years, the road to the northern end of the island will be complete and this ferry will shuttle us back and forth from our island to the next one.
Our Founders Day celebrations are similar to our Independence Day celebrations in that we have a parade followed by races and contests. It's always a lot of fun and this time, we had gorgeous weather!
Here's our ferry putting on a show. This ferry is a part of the Alaska Marine Highway fleet, but it only services our community. In the next few years, the road to the northern end of the island will be complete and this ferry will shuttle us back and forth from our island to the next one.
One of my favorite entries in the parade, was the little cheer squad. My little niece Mykayla is the last one in the row closest to the camera. I was so proud of her! She knew all the movements and didn't appear to be the least bit scared.
This is a military brass band. They're small but they sounded great! I love brass bands and this is the first time I've seen one in one of our parades. The town used to have a marching band before I was born. My mom was a member and told me stories of how famous they were and how they'd perform on this huge band stand on the field we have our Founders Day and Independence Day celebrations on.
The contests included foot races, slow bike races, potato sack races, tug-of-war, water balloon toss, egg toss, a jitter-bug contest, three-legged races, a race where you had to put a potato between your knees and hop to the finish line without dropping the potato, a race where you held a spoon in your mouth and used it to carry a marble to the finish line, and even a whistling contest. Here's Theodore just before he caught his balloon. He and his partner placed 1st.
They made too many water balloons so after the contests were over, a huge water fight broke out. It happened right in front of me but I managed to stay dry. It was a lot of fun and a quick way for the participants to cool off. We got up in to the 70's that day.
This is one of my sisters-in-law (in the grey t-shirt). She and Space Cadet got 3rd in their egg toss contest. SC threw the egg too soft so it didn't go far enough.
After all of the events we tried to relax as much as we could and then after dark we took the kids and lit off some small fireworks. The town didn't have a fireworks display this year so everyone did their own. We had a lot of fun until one of them blew up too low to the ground and just missed Lucione. That was our cue to quit.
When all was said and done, it was a great day. SC kept me busy so I didn't have a chance to get too lonesome for Michael.
Saturday, August 06, 2005
Potlatch Day 2
Scroll down to read about Day 1.
Night 2 of the potlatch was even better than the first. There were 4 dance groups tonight. That always makes it more exciting.
This little girl is my cousin's daughter. She's visiting from Kake, AK. She's singing and drumming and her little cousin is dancing to show her support for her.
I was so amazed by this little sweetie. I'm not related, I don't even know her name, but I just couldn't stop watching her. All I know about her is that she hasn't started elementary school yet. If she had, I'd know her. She knew all the movements and even sang along with the songs. She showed no fear. I remember dancing when I was that little. But I don't think I was as brave as she was.
My niece dedicated her regalia tonight. When you receive or make a new piece of regalia, the custom is that you publically dedicate it at a potlatch before you wear it in public for any reason. My nephew (in the baseball cap) designed the Eagle and my sisters-in-law did the sewing. At one point during the sewing of the buttons, they tried to lift it up to reposition it and discovered they had sewn it to the tablecloth!
We have a tradition here that says when you attend a potlatch and lose an item, you have to dance for it in order to get it back. This boy lost his drum. He earned it back by doing a solo dance. This is why I don't take anything with me except my camera....and that never leaves my sight.
One of the dance groups was made up entirely of children. From Kindergarten through high school. They seemed like they were having a lot of fun. I know we all enjoyed watching them.
Night 2 of the potlatch was even better than the first. There were 4 dance groups tonight. That always makes it more exciting.
This little girl is my cousin's daughter. She's visiting from Kake, AK. She's singing and drumming and her little cousin is dancing to show her support for her.
I was so amazed by this little sweetie. I'm not related, I don't even know her name, but I just couldn't stop watching her. All I know about her is that she hasn't started elementary school yet. If she had, I'd know her. She knew all the movements and even sang along with the songs. She showed no fear. I remember dancing when I was that little. But I don't think I was as brave as she was.
My niece dedicated her regalia tonight. When you receive or make a new piece of regalia, the custom is that you publically dedicate it at a potlatch before you wear it in public for any reason. My nephew (in the baseball cap) designed the Eagle and my sisters-in-law did the sewing. At one point during the sewing of the buttons, they tried to lift it up to reposition it and discovered they had sewn it to the tablecloth!
We have a tradition here that says when you attend a potlatch and lose an item, you have to dance for it in order to get it back. This boy lost his drum. He earned it back by doing a solo dance. This is why I don't take anything with me except my camera....and that never leaves my sight.
One of the dance groups was made up entirely of children. From Kindergarten through high school. They seemed like they were having a lot of fun. I know we all enjoyed watching them.
Friday, August 05, 2005
Potlatch Day 1
Nobody asked, but the title of my last post is written in my native language and it means, "I love you, Grandmother."
I just got home from night one of the potlatch. It was so much fun and tomorrow night promises to be even better.
A potlatch is a celebration. It can be to celebrate a wedding or a memorial to a loved one who's passed on. When a pole is raised, it's done during a potlatch. Everybody has a role to play in a potlatch. You are either a part of the host clan or you are a witness. As a host, it is your job to thank the witnesses for attending. You do this by offering gifts. Tomorrow night, the last thing they'll do before the potlatch is over, is distribute gifts. Anyone who attends, who is not a part of the host clan, receives gifts. They can range from a piece of fruit, to a piece of native art.
My cousins are hosting this potlatch. They are putting a memorial plaque in the home of my aunt and uncle who have both passed away. The memorial is their reason for the potlatch.
At a potlatch, you witness many things such as native dance, clan adoptions, regalia dedications, and storytelling.
The highlight of tonights potlatch, in my opinion, was when my nephew Adam gave up his braid for Locks Of Love. He did a warrior dance and publically declared his personal war against cancer. He also honored a family friend who has struggled with cancer for the past 5 years. I was so proud of him.
There were a lot of young people involved tonight and that makes me very happy. There was a time when we came very close to completely losing our culture. It's now coming back strong and it is so good to see.
Lucione was my photographer tonight. Here are some of her photos. As always, clicking a photo will allow you to view it larger.
I just got home from night one of the potlatch. It was so much fun and tomorrow night promises to be even better.
A potlatch is a celebration. It can be to celebrate a wedding or a memorial to a loved one who's passed on. When a pole is raised, it's done during a potlatch. Everybody has a role to play in a potlatch. You are either a part of the host clan or you are a witness. As a host, it is your job to thank the witnesses for attending. You do this by offering gifts. Tomorrow night, the last thing they'll do before the potlatch is over, is distribute gifts. Anyone who attends, who is not a part of the host clan, receives gifts. They can range from a piece of fruit, to a piece of native art.
My cousins are hosting this potlatch. They are putting a memorial plaque in the home of my aunt and uncle who have both passed away. The memorial is their reason for the potlatch.
At a potlatch, you witness many things such as native dance, clan adoptions, regalia dedications, and storytelling.
The highlight of tonights potlatch, in my opinion, was when my nephew Adam gave up his braid for Locks Of Love. He did a warrior dance and publically declared his personal war against cancer. He also honored a family friend who has struggled with cancer for the past 5 years. I was so proud of him.
There were a lot of young people involved tonight and that makes me very happy. There was a time when we came very close to completely losing our culture. It's now coming back strong and it is so good to see.
Lucione was my photographer tonight. Here are some of her photos. As always, clicking a photo will allow you to view it larger.
Thursday, August 04, 2005
Shee'pan-nuut 'nuun, Dziish
Lucione has been doing exactly what my mother-in-law had hoped she'd do. She's keeping me busy. She's keeping my mind occupied on things other than how lonesome I am. She's helping me to find reasons to smile.Today was her last day of basketball camp but we are by no means going to slow down. We'll be attending a potlatch tomorrow and Saturday and on Sunday, of course, we'll be busy celebrating Founder's Day. Monday I have a huge family reunion potluck to go to.
I'm really looking forward to the reunion because it is my maternal grandmother's family. We were extremely close, my grandmother and I. She called me Carrie-O. I never asked why, but I loved hearing it.
This house I'm living in now, was hers. This room I'm in now, was my toy room. It was so full of toys, there were days you couldn't see the floor. We had huge cardboard boxes along the walls that were used to hold the toys.
She liked to drink 7-Up. She always used a straw. The kind that bend. I giggled one day when I heard the noise of the straw bending. After that, she would insist I bend her straw.
My mom and I used to decorate the house for Christmas. One year, she asked my mom to put a big MC on the ceiling. She told my mom it would stand for "Merry Christmas" but she whispered to me that it would mean "My Carrie".
I remember the day she got her new carpet. It had just been installed and the furniture was still out of the room. She laid herself down in the middle of the floor. When my sister and I asked her what she was doing, she said, "Lay with me. I'll show you how to break-in a new rug." We rolled around on the floor laughing for what felt like forever.
I play the clarinet. My gram bought it for me when I was 9 years old. At her request, I stopped by her house every day after school and she'd listen to me practice.
I still remember the last time I saw her. It was May 2nd, 1983. She was sick with lung cancer and they were going to transport her to Seattle. She refused to get in the ambulance. I sat with her and told her it was the right thing to do. I was only 12. But she listened to me. She got in the ambulance. We followed her out to the runway and I watched them put her on a jet. I watched her jet disappear in the distance and I nearly collapsed in tears. 3 days later she passed away.
She was 75. Her birthday was yesterday. I still miss her but living in her house feels comforting. It will be nice to be among family on Monday.
Tuesday, August 02, 2005
Our Sunday
Click a photo to view it larger.
Sunday we had a birthday dinner to go to for our niece Alexys but the morning and afternoon we had all to ourselves.
Michael made little apple turnovers for breakfast and we decided to spend the day in the truck. We drove around town for a while and decided to do be tourists and go check out the hatchery. It had been a long time since we had ventured out to that part of the island.
We weren't entirely sure there would be fish to see, but it was a nice drive nonetheless.
This gazebo is a nice place to relax and watch the fish swimming upstream. It's even got a table if you decide to take a picnic lunch.
Last summer, a friend of mine got married there. It really is a beautiful area. I can't believe they were the first to think of using it for a wedding.
This totem pole was carved by one of my sister's classmates. It's a bit weathered, but still very nice. See the fish in the man's hands? I wasn't at the pole raising so don't know the significance of the raven. Each pole has a story and I'm sorry I don't know this pole's story.
Can you see the fish swimming in the water? There weren't very many because the tide was low when we got there. They're so much fun to watch. It always amazes me when they return. They look so graceful swimming in the water and have to be so strong in order to make it back upstream.
Here are some who made it up the stream and into the ladder. All those beautiful kings...so tempting to grab a net and bring some home for dinner! haha
Here you can see them in the holding ponds. The lighting was not very good and I couldn't use the flash because the water acted like a mirror. We stood and watched them for a few minutes. They were jumping and splashing, trying to get past the gate.
Here are some other scenery pictures we took while there.
Sunday we had a birthday dinner to go to for our niece Alexys but the morning and afternoon we had all to ourselves.
Michael made little apple turnovers for breakfast and we decided to spend the day in the truck. We drove around town for a while and decided to do be tourists and go check out the hatchery. It had been a long time since we had ventured out to that part of the island.
We weren't entirely sure there would be fish to see, but it was a nice drive nonetheless.
This gazebo is a nice place to relax and watch the fish swimming upstream. It's even got a table if you decide to take a picnic lunch.Last summer, a friend of mine got married there. It really is a beautiful area. I can't believe they were the first to think of using it for a wedding.
This totem pole was carved by one of my sister's classmates. It's a bit weathered, but still very nice. See the fish in the man's hands? I wasn't at the pole raising so don't know the significance of the raven. Each pole has a story and I'm sorry I don't know this pole's story.
Can you see the fish swimming in the water? There weren't very many because the tide was low when we got there. They're so much fun to watch. It always amazes me when they return. They look so graceful swimming in the water and have to be so strong in order to make it back upstream.
Here are some who made it up the stream and into the ladder. All those beautiful kings...so tempting to grab a net and bring some home for dinner! haha
Here you can see them in the holding ponds. The lighting was not very good and I couldn't use the flash because the water acted like a mirror. We stood and watched them for a few minutes. They were jumping and splashing, trying to get past the gate.
Here are some other scenery pictures we took while there.
Monday, August 01, 2005
Our Weekend
Friday after breakfast, Michael cut the grass and then we went for a drive. It was a warm day and the truck's air conditioning was a huge relief. We had a long talk about how we are going to make this work for us. I'm still not confident, but am going to do my best. He'll be in Santa Maria until October and then go back to Fresno for a while. Sometime next year, all - or at least most - of his travel should be within Alaska.
After our talk, we cooked dinner and then we got a last minute invite to our brother-in-law's birthday party. We had strawberry shortcake and a nice visit.
Saturday was uneventful. It was our only day we had completely to ourselves. No family gatherings, no chores to do...we just hung out and enjoyed each other's company. We watched The Upside of Anger and had some popcorn.
Sunday we went to the hatchery. It was a nice long drive on a beautiful day. I'll post pictures tomorrow. After the hatchery, we had to go to another family birthday party. Alexys turned 14. We went for our final drive afterwards and then came home to pack.
Michael left this morning at 8:45. Right now he's sitting in LAX waiting for his flight to Santa Maria. The weekend flew by. It was nice to have him home but it was too short. I thought that since I surived the first trip saying goodbye would be easier but it wasn't. It was just as hard, if not harder. At least this time he has a cell phone. We'll be able to talk more often and without paying long distance. He'll be gone for 2 and a half weeks this time. He'll miss the 7th of August. Due to the timing of his next trip home, he'll also miss our anniversary and my birthday.
Now that I've bored you all to death with my rambling, I'm going to take a walk.
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