Well, it's over and preparations for another work week are underway. The week in review.
Bob sat at home last week. He may work this week...he still gets paid and he is happy. He did go visit his parents a couple of times. His mom is getting around better.
I went to school two days! Wednesday was so long ago I almost forgot what I did. I think Bob, Veronica, and I went to buy groceries at WalMart and then to Rib Crib. Veronica ate two kids' meals. She is growing.
Thursday, Mom, my sister-in-law Debbie, Bob and I, Rach, Veronica, and Cash came for dinner. We did the whole turkey thing. The food was great. However, Debbie made some beautiful deviled eggs which I managed to flip the container over onto the floor when getting them out of my refridgerator. Thank goodness for tupperware. Drew called in the morning for a visit and that helped me be in a good mood. Kids spent the night and Rachel went shopping in the night. Lines were LONG.
Friday Bob and I took the kids to the downtown festivities. Cash and Veronica did a hayride, rode a little train, and got to see Santa. Veronica was skeptical, but Cash was not afraid this year.
Then we came home and met Rachel and Robin for Christmas Craft Night...the annual evening of snacks and crafting. Many snowflakes were made and we had a good time.
Saturday, I sat around and Bob did his laundry. Veronica stayed here for awhile and she beat me three times at Crazy Eights.
Sunday, Bob sat around and I went with my mother to Columbia to visit my Uncle Wilbie at the Veteran's Hospital. He has had pneumonia.
We were going to eat somewhere in Columbia, but I thought we still had an exit to go. Wrong, and in case you were wondering...The Bobber Cafe in Boonville, not up to Macaroni Grill or Olive Garden par.
This week turned cold and we were infested with mice! Never had this problem before, but I think we have caught the parent mice and the kamikaze babies. It was crazy!
Now I must go grade some papers as the school day will soon be here.
Hope your holiday was great and your coming week even better.
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Sunday, November 22, 2009
The week in review.
Hello to all. Get prepared to share for "What I am thankful for" moments on Thursday!
Bob spent his first week in Forney employ at home in his bathrobe and fat pants. Yes he was home ALL week.
I spent much of my time at home this week also in p.j.s. I took off Monday because we had such a busy and demanding week before that I still needed to rest. Worked Tuesday, half of a day Wednesday, no Thursday or Friday. Some type of sinus thing and it knocked me on my butt! Saturday, I rallied, finished a murder mystery for a party for my work friends and stayed out late at the party. The murder mystery went really well despite the fact that I wrote it under the influence of cold medicine. Then it karoeke (I never spell that word correctly.) Today finds me back in my p.j.s resting. I have two whole days to get through this week before we are off for Thanksgiving. Whew, I hope I make it.
My mom fed us Ham and beans, fried potatoes, and cornbread Thursday night and Bob was thrilled to actually get some homecooked food. I haven't been cooking.
Baby Cash (Okay he is a big boy. I know.) came over Friday night while his mom and sister went to their first 3-D movie. I think they were seasick...Cash and I read some books and then he told me to shut the lights off...he was going to bed. He is just like Drew in that when it is time for him to go to bed, he just says goodnight and goes to sleep. Drew used to tell people to go home when it was his bedtime.
Drew is doing okay. He had a few rough days when he was frustrated with the Army in general...but he seemed more positive. He sent us a list of things he wants, so we are in the process of gathering them up. We will making him crafts and cookies this weekend.
Thursday, we are having Thanksgiving dinner at 1:00. Come on over if you like. However, we don't bake pies...we do buy some. And for my whine, this is the first Thanksgiving without Drew here.
Friday, we will be having Christmas Craft Night. It is our annual family kickoff for the Christmas season. I torture everyone by coming up with crafty projects that we all participate in. Did I mention we are not good at crafts?
Veronica is well. We are getting our hair done this week. I can't remember if I said that she got all A's on report card or not. She continues to be a really good reader. And still loves to tell jokes.
Several people thought Rachel had a wreck this week, but it was actually Dan's wife. Their vehicles are similar and many people know where Rachel works. In the wreck, nobody was seriously injured that I know of.
Talked to Ryan last week. He is doing well. Still living with one of his friends.
For those of you that don't know, I made November my own National Scarf Month. I have so many scarves, I decided to wear one a day at school. My students have been waiting each day to see what scarf I wear next. Some of them have even been wearing their own to show me.
My students this year are really neat kids. I am able to enjoy teaching them. Some years are harder than others on the enjoyment level.
That's all I've got to share. Normally, I would be doing laundry on Sundays, but when you don't work most of the week, you really don't have much to wash.
Have a happy holiday...eat turkey...and don't forget to nap.
And I am thankful for the many people who make my life more interesting and loving.
Bob spent his first week in Forney employ at home in his bathrobe and fat pants. Yes he was home ALL week.
I spent much of my time at home this week also in p.j.s. I took off Monday because we had such a busy and demanding week before that I still needed to rest. Worked Tuesday, half of a day Wednesday, no Thursday or Friday. Some type of sinus thing and it knocked me on my butt! Saturday, I rallied, finished a murder mystery for a party for my work friends and stayed out late at the party. The murder mystery went really well despite the fact that I wrote it under the influence of cold medicine. Then it karoeke (I never spell that word correctly.) Today finds me back in my p.j.s resting. I have two whole days to get through this week before we are off for Thanksgiving. Whew, I hope I make it.
My mom fed us Ham and beans, fried potatoes, and cornbread Thursday night and Bob was thrilled to actually get some homecooked food. I haven't been cooking.
Baby Cash (Okay he is a big boy. I know.) came over Friday night while his mom and sister went to their first 3-D movie. I think they were seasick...Cash and I read some books and then he told me to shut the lights off...he was going to bed. He is just like Drew in that when it is time for him to go to bed, he just says goodnight and goes to sleep. Drew used to tell people to go home when it was his bedtime.
Drew is doing okay. He had a few rough days when he was frustrated with the Army in general...but he seemed more positive. He sent us a list of things he wants, so we are in the process of gathering them up. We will making him crafts and cookies this weekend.
Thursday, we are having Thanksgiving dinner at 1:00. Come on over if you like. However, we don't bake pies...we do buy some. And for my whine, this is the first Thanksgiving without Drew here.
Friday, we will be having Christmas Craft Night. It is our annual family kickoff for the Christmas season. I torture everyone by coming up with crafty projects that we all participate in. Did I mention we are not good at crafts?
Veronica is well. We are getting our hair done this week. I can't remember if I said that she got all A's on report card or not. She continues to be a really good reader. And still loves to tell jokes.
Several people thought Rachel had a wreck this week, but it was actually Dan's wife. Their vehicles are similar and many people know where Rachel works. In the wreck, nobody was seriously injured that I know of.
Talked to Ryan last week. He is doing well. Still living with one of his friends.
For those of you that don't know, I made November my own National Scarf Month. I have so many scarves, I decided to wear one a day at school. My students have been waiting each day to see what scarf I wear next. Some of them have even been wearing their own to show me.
My students this year are really neat kids. I am able to enjoy teaching them. Some years are harder than others on the enjoyment level.
That's all I've got to share. Normally, I would be doing laundry on Sundays, but when you don't work most of the week, you really don't have much to wash.
Have a happy holiday...eat turkey...and don't forget to nap.
And I am thankful for the many people who make my life more interesting and loving.
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Old ways win.
Many of you know of my unfaithfulness to the blog. I have been facebooking and found a number of my former classmates and friends. However, I miss the blogging for the weekly update and people complain. So, I really am back this time.
And now the update.
Bob is starting his new/old job on Monday. He was working at another company that paid him really well, but working conditions and staff were very unpleasant. So, he is back to working at the old job that still pays him a lot more than I make. I would write more about him, but I haven't seen him much for months.
Me. Busy as always. There has been so much recently that it depresses me to think about it. I have taught, presented workshops, organized much of parent teacher conferences, organized Veterans Day assembly, done work for my writer's group, and bought some new furniture. I am tired and am taking Monday off to re-group. Thank God my mom made me some meals over the last few weeks. The good news is that I have accomplished A LOT and now don't have as many things coming up. The bad news is all of this action, has taken a toll on my body. Nothing is really wrong with me, but I am really sore all over all of the time. I know, I need to slow down.
Rachel is busy decorating her office and working with textbooks at her dad's business. She has reorganized the whole system. Wonder where she got that skill. And the children keep her VERY busy.
Drew is still in Afghanistan. His base is located near the Packistan border. I think he sees more action than he tells me. He is frustrated with the idea that nothing much seems to be accomplished with the Afghan people. They don't value what can be done. He is grateful for the many things people here have sent him and the kindnesses shown. It still embarrasses him a little.
Haven't had the opportunity to speak to Michael recently. Ryan is living with a friend in an apartment. The friend works and Ryan is currently in charge of cooking and cleaning. He seems content.
Veronica is great. She just got all A's on her report card and we were proud. She has good friends and continues to be a nice caring little girl. Not too shocking, but she is an excellent reader.
Cash is a little ball of fire. He is mostly potty-trained and Johnny Cash's, Ring of Fire, Song is his favorite. He is good buddies with Poppie Bob.
Bob's parents are doing okay. Toni was hospitalized for weakness recently, but is much more mobile now.
My mom sold her property and is house hunting. We keep her busy with doing things to help us out. I feel guilty at times.
My sister Bev is working a lot. My brother Bill and sister-in-law Debbie seem to like living in the country.
The cat and the fish are still alive.
Everyone, have a great week and remember to think of the things you are thankful for. (I am thankful that a blog is a personal writing and I don't have to feel guilty that I ended that last sentence with a preposition.)
And now the update.
Bob is starting his new/old job on Monday. He was working at another company that paid him really well, but working conditions and staff were very unpleasant. So, he is back to working at the old job that still pays him a lot more than I make. I would write more about him, but I haven't seen him much for months.
Me. Busy as always. There has been so much recently that it depresses me to think about it. I have taught, presented workshops, organized much of parent teacher conferences, organized Veterans Day assembly, done work for my writer's group, and bought some new furniture. I am tired and am taking Monday off to re-group. Thank God my mom made me some meals over the last few weeks. The good news is that I have accomplished A LOT and now don't have as many things coming up. The bad news is all of this action, has taken a toll on my body. Nothing is really wrong with me, but I am really sore all over all of the time. I know, I need to slow down.
Rachel is busy decorating her office and working with textbooks at her dad's business. She has reorganized the whole system. Wonder where she got that skill. And the children keep her VERY busy.
Drew is still in Afghanistan. His base is located near the Packistan border. I think he sees more action than he tells me. He is frustrated with the idea that nothing much seems to be accomplished with the Afghan people. They don't value what can be done. He is grateful for the many things people here have sent him and the kindnesses shown. It still embarrasses him a little.
Haven't had the opportunity to speak to Michael recently. Ryan is living with a friend in an apartment. The friend works and Ryan is currently in charge of cooking and cleaning. He seems content.
Veronica is great. She just got all A's on her report card and we were proud. She has good friends and continues to be a nice caring little girl. Not too shocking, but she is an excellent reader.
Cash is a little ball of fire. He is mostly potty-trained and Johnny Cash's, Ring of Fire, Song is his favorite. He is good buddies with Poppie Bob.
Bob's parents are doing okay. Toni was hospitalized for weakness recently, but is much more mobile now.
My mom sold her property and is house hunting. We keep her busy with doing things to help us out. I feel guilty at times.
My sister Bev is working a lot. My brother Bill and sister-in-law Debbie seem to like living in the country.
The cat and the fish are still alive.
Everyone, have a great week and remember to think of the things you are thankful for. (I am thankful that a blog is a personal writing and I don't have to feel guilty that I ended that last sentence with a preposition.)
Sunday, November 8, 2009
And now it is November
Okay, I am really am back this time. I have been unfaithful to blogging with facebook for some time now, but I think this venue works best for me. Catch up time.
Our family has been well but busy!
Bob-Been working new job...doesn't like it...things are changing this week. But first he goes to Kentucky after being in Texas next week. His mom was in the hospital and is now home. We took the kids up to see her a while back and that made her happy. Herman, Bob's dad, struggles along.
I have been busy at school...of course. This week are parent conferences, and Veteran's assembly and planning for murder mystery party-but I have Friday off! Hurray. Saturday I have my writer's meeting.
Rachel has been accomplishing a great deal at her job working for her dad in the textbook business. She has been reorganizing and making herself an office. She also dyed her hair auburn. A different look for her.
Drew called this morning and he is still in Afghanistan. He is satisfied but really looks forward to the day when he can have his own room back. Seems to be okay dealing with homesickness, but misses driving his truck.
We haven't talked to Mike and Ryan for awhile. Mike was thinking about going to culinary training and Ryan is living with a friend and job hunting.
Veronica is moving along in third grade. She is still a talker. She has been having some breathing problems, but it is that time of year.
Cash is moving along with potty training. Very stubborn, that boy. Cute. We took both kids to the train restaurant in Crown Center and he was THRILLED!
Both kids had a great time at Halloween. Cash was an elephant and a train engineer and Veronica was Abbie off of NCIS. You know the goth girl who is a smart scientist. She wore makeup for her costume and it sort of took us back just how pretty that girl is and is going to be in her teens. It's coming sooner than not....Rachel was Zeva off of NCIS with braid, official hoodie, hat, and badge.
Tonight we are having a weinie roast. We try to do dinner on Sunday evenings.
My mom has sold her Oklahoma house and is looking to buy one here. She has been well, with one really bad high blood sugar day. Her friends from Oklahoma are coming to visit next weekend.
Bev, my sister, stopped by the other night. She is doing well but is busy.
Bill, my brother, and his wife Debbie have moved out in the country closer to Harrisonville where Bill works. Debbie had some knee surgery but is doing well.
The cat and the fish are still alive.
Oh yeah, Bob has made a lot of money recently, so I bought a new bedroom set, two couches, and a recliner...and he wanted to buy a gun...really!
That's it for the week in review...I will try to update each Sunday.
Our family has been well but busy!
Bob-Been working new job...doesn't like it...things are changing this week. But first he goes to Kentucky after being in Texas next week. His mom was in the hospital and is now home. We took the kids up to see her a while back and that made her happy. Herman, Bob's dad, struggles along.
I have been busy at school...of course. This week are parent conferences, and Veteran's assembly and planning for murder mystery party-but I have Friday off! Hurray. Saturday I have my writer's meeting.
Rachel has been accomplishing a great deal at her job working for her dad in the textbook business. She has been reorganizing and making herself an office. She also dyed her hair auburn. A different look for her.
Drew called this morning and he is still in Afghanistan. He is satisfied but really looks forward to the day when he can have his own room back. Seems to be okay dealing with homesickness, but misses driving his truck.
We haven't talked to Mike and Ryan for awhile. Mike was thinking about going to culinary training and Ryan is living with a friend and job hunting.
Veronica is moving along in third grade. She is still a talker. She has been having some breathing problems, but it is that time of year.
Cash is moving along with potty training. Very stubborn, that boy. Cute. We took both kids to the train restaurant in Crown Center and he was THRILLED!
Both kids had a great time at Halloween. Cash was an elephant and a train engineer and Veronica was Abbie off of NCIS. You know the goth girl who is a smart scientist. She wore makeup for her costume and it sort of took us back just how pretty that girl is and is going to be in her teens. It's coming sooner than not....Rachel was Zeva off of NCIS with braid, official hoodie, hat, and badge.
Tonight we are having a weinie roast. We try to do dinner on Sunday evenings.
My mom has sold her Oklahoma house and is looking to buy one here. She has been well, with one really bad high blood sugar day. Her friends from Oklahoma are coming to visit next weekend.
Bev, my sister, stopped by the other night. She is doing well but is busy.
Bill, my brother, and his wife Debbie have moved out in the country closer to Harrisonville where Bill works. Debbie had some knee surgery but is doing well.
The cat and the fish are still alive.
Oh yeah, Bob has made a lot of money recently, so I bought a new bedroom set, two couches, and a recliner...and he wanted to buy a gun...really!
That's it for the week in review...I will try to update each Sunday.
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Okay, okay I am back.
It is August and I have been remiss when it comes to keeping the family blog up to date. I let myself get over committed and the blog paid the price. I will just tell everything that has happened that I can think of and post a bunch of pictures.
Bob-has traveled the world. He has been to South Africa and Peru. He also is now working at a different job. A company contacted him and offered $11,000 more and he was gone. He still travels, but will mostly be in the surrounding states.
I am starting my 24th year of teaching in the morning. Last year I taught, chaired career ladder committee, worked after school on GED program with students, am or was president of the Heartland Romance Authors and Kappa Nu social sorority. We had new administration and though it was not a poor performance, it was a year of transition. I worked my butt off (still big however). This is my brag. I was teacher of the term and teacher of the year and favorite 8th grade teacher in the yearbook. I work with great people and we all worked so hard we ALL deserved these honors!
Rachel is working for her dad at the textbook company. She finds it challenging at times. She lives over by Warrensburg in nice three bedroom house and if she can keep the huge lawn mowed, all is well. She keeps very busy with the kids.
Drew finished basic training for the Army. He is stationed at Fort Carson, CO, but is actually deployed in Afghanistan for fifteen months. He is a sniper and seems to be thriving in the military. For the first time in his life, he is muscular and weighs MUCH more than he every has because of his muscles. Currently he is on a post in the middle of nowhere, bored, and craving junk food. We got to see him a few times this year and it was nice. We had a joint family party for him and that went well.
Ryan and Michael live in CT and finished high school this year. They are both job hunting.
Veronica is going to third grade. She looks like Rachel and is getting much taller. She is beautiful and there are moments when you just know she will be a beautiful woman. She is bright and witty and just learned that "Your Momma" jokes exist. She spent the summer days with me and my mom. And she is looking forward to competing in the Holden Fair PreTeen Contest. She never minds not winning, because she has a good time no matter where she goes.
Cash is two going on thirty. He speaks much better than other children his age and he is hilarious. He loves Sissy, Momma, and Grandma Goldie in that order. Sometimes Grandma over Momma. I spoil him. He also adores Drew and Bob and Grandma Martha. He goes to a Christian daycare and enjoys everything except the part where they have to sit down to read the BIBLE. He would much rather watch a movie. He told us that. He knows everything about tractors, bobcats, loaders, dozers, and excavators.
Both kids love frozen waffles and that is the first thing Cash asks for, "Hot sausage and 'affles". Veronica is a big I-Hop fan.
My mom is selling her place in Oklahoma and is renting a place here in Holden. We call each other daily and usually see each other. She is having a good time with the grandbabies and looking up relatives and old friends.
In June, Bob, me, Rachel, Veronica, Cash, and Mom all went to Colorado to see Drew off before he deployed. We all had a really good time visiting. We went to some sights that I saw as a child, Dan and I took Rach and Drew to when they were little, and now I have taken my grandkids. Of course, the drive across Kansas still SUCKED!
This year Bob and I have been married for ten years. To celebrate he met me in Washington, D.C. where I was attending the National Romance Writers of America conference. That was awesome. We spent a couple of days in Washington, D.C. seeing the sites. I cried at the Holocaust museum, because in all the years of teaching about the Holocaust and The Diary of Anne Frank, I have never met a survivor. I also got to stand in the spot where Martin Luther King, Jr. gave his "I have a dream speech." Bob and I visited Arlington and several war memorials. With Drew serving, we understand the sacrifices of the people honored there.
Then Bob and I drove to CT. We went through New York and it was just as bad as when Dan and I went through it when Drew was a baby. In CT we got to spend a couple of days with Ryan. Mike was a little confused and didn't want to see us. However, I got to meet the rest of Ryan's mother's family and we had a really nice visit with them. The boys' grandparents, Dave and Dolores, are great people and it was nice to see them again. I also got to go and get in the ocean. I love that!
I have a break through in the psoraisis front. I went to a new doctor who did not help, went to another that did and purchased a special machine that is helping clear up my arms. My injections cost about $700 a piece and I take two a month. Thank God for insurance. The way things are going, I may get to wear 3/4 sleeves. A serious miracle!
Traveling is pretty much all I have done this summer. We did buy two 2009 vehicles this summer. Got some good deals and even took advantage of Cash for Clunkers. Oh, and can I mention how happy I am when tomatoes and sweet corn get ripe. I LOVE THEM! I have organized the house some and now I must go take the trash out. Not too exciting, but sometimes that is good too.
I will get some pictures up soon.
Bob-has traveled the world. He has been to South Africa and Peru. He also is now working at a different job. A company contacted him and offered $11,000 more and he was gone. He still travels, but will mostly be in the surrounding states.
I am starting my 24th year of teaching in the morning. Last year I taught, chaired career ladder committee, worked after school on GED program with students, am or was president of the Heartland Romance Authors and Kappa Nu social sorority. We had new administration and though it was not a poor performance, it was a year of transition. I worked my butt off (still big however). This is my brag. I was teacher of the term and teacher of the year and favorite 8th grade teacher in the yearbook. I work with great people and we all worked so hard we ALL deserved these honors!
Rachel is working for her dad at the textbook company. She finds it challenging at times. She lives over by Warrensburg in nice three bedroom house and if she can keep the huge lawn mowed, all is well. She keeps very busy with the kids.
Drew finished basic training for the Army. He is stationed at Fort Carson, CO, but is actually deployed in Afghanistan for fifteen months. He is a sniper and seems to be thriving in the military. For the first time in his life, he is muscular and weighs MUCH more than he every has because of his muscles. Currently he is on a post in the middle of nowhere, bored, and craving junk food. We got to see him a few times this year and it was nice. We had a joint family party for him and that went well.
Ryan and Michael live in CT and finished high school this year. They are both job hunting.
Veronica is going to third grade. She looks like Rachel and is getting much taller. She is beautiful and there are moments when you just know she will be a beautiful woman. She is bright and witty and just learned that "Your Momma" jokes exist. She spent the summer days with me and my mom. And she is looking forward to competing in the Holden Fair PreTeen Contest. She never minds not winning, because she has a good time no matter where she goes.
Cash is two going on thirty. He speaks much better than other children his age and he is hilarious. He loves Sissy, Momma, and Grandma Goldie in that order. Sometimes Grandma over Momma. I spoil him. He also adores Drew and Bob and Grandma Martha. He goes to a Christian daycare and enjoys everything except the part where they have to sit down to read the BIBLE. He would much rather watch a movie. He told us that. He knows everything about tractors, bobcats, loaders, dozers, and excavators.
Both kids love frozen waffles and that is the first thing Cash asks for, "Hot sausage and 'affles". Veronica is a big I-Hop fan.
My mom is selling her place in Oklahoma and is renting a place here in Holden. We call each other daily and usually see each other. She is having a good time with the grandbabies and looking up relatives and old friends.
In June, Bob, me, Rachel, Veronica, Cash, and Mom all went to Colorado to see Drew off before he deployed. We all had a really good time visiting. We went to some sights that I saw as a child, Dan and I took Rach and Drew to when they were little, and now I have taken my grandkids. Of course, the drive across Kansas still SUCKED!
This year Bob and I have been married for ten years. To celebrate he met me in Washington, D.C. where I was attending the National Romance Writers of America conference. That was awesome. We spent a couple of days in Washington, D.C. seeing the sites. I cried at the Holocaust museum, because in all the years of teaching about the Holocaust and The Diary of Anne Frank, I have never met a survivor. I also got to stand in the spot where Martin Luther King, Jr. gave his "I have a dream speech." Bob and I visited Arlington and several war memorials. With Drew serving, we understand the sacrifices of the people honored there.
Then Bob and I drove to CT. We went through New York and it was just as bad as when Dan and I went through it when Drew was a baby. In CT we got to spend a couple of days with Ryan. Mike was a little confused and didn't want to see us. However, I got to meet the rest of Ryan's mother's family and we had a really nice visit with them. The boys' grandparents, Dave and Dolores, are great people and it was nice to see them again. I also got to go and get in the ocean. I love that!
I have a break through in the psoraisis front. I went to a new doctor who did not help, went to another that did and purchased a special machine that is helping clear up my arms. My injections cost about $700 a piece and I take two a month. Thank God for insurance. The way things are going, I may get to wear 3/4 sleeves. A serious miracle!
Traveling is pretty much all I have done this summer. We did buy two 2009 vehicles this summer. Got some good deals and even took advantage of Cash for Clunkers. Oh, and can I mention how happy I am when tomatoes and sweet corn get ripe. I LOVE THEM! I have organized the house some and now I must go take the trash out. Not too exciting, but sometimes that is good too.
I will get some pictures up soon.
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Two weeks since...
First, lets give a shout out to all of my Kappa Nu Ladies! I know you will be reading this.
Family milestones yesterday. Ryan and Mike turned 18 yesterday! They both seemed happy to have another birthday.
Our other "son", Drew's friend, C. J. and his wife Hannah just became the parents of a beautiful little girl, Gracie. I am almost as excited and Tim and Gerilynn, the actual grandparents.
I was really confused when Drew told me about it, since he said C. J. had called about 7:30 a. m. Since Gracie wasn't born until after 8:00 I didn't see how that was possible. Then I remember that Drew is an hour behind us. It is sometimes hard to remember what time zone all of our boys are in.
I had five or so days off last weekend. I was sick every single one of them! I only made it through this week at school by attending every other day. I hate wasting a break!
Mom came to visit during my days off. We did go house hunting and saw some nice houses. Bob, Rachel, the kids, and Robin were very good at visiting with Mom, when I would have to go to bed. Mom and Veronica got to go to breakfast and shopping. Veronica has a new favorite in the Country Kitchen Belgian waffle. Baby Cash was glad to see Grandma Martha, but she made the mistake of answering when he said, "Grandma." and he let her know that he WAS talking to Grandma Goldie.
Then Mom went home of Tuesday and has been sick ever since. I'm really sorry.
My ex-husband Dan's house burnt. Yeah, the one we built together. He and his family were okay and they had a rental house to move in. But there is great damage and he will either have a lot of renovation or have to rebuild. I am sorry he has to deal with that. Fire makes a mess of everything in the house.
Drew had a disappointment in that he didn't do well on the physical testing at sniper school and was sent back to his unit. He psychs himself out. However, his unit kept him unlike the others and he will just have a different job. He is still going to Afghanistan in June. He was disappointed about the school, but he is getting busy with all of the things he needs to do to deploy. He called me this week to talk about his will.
Rachel is doing fine. She is, as always, busy with the kids. Trying to keep them well in cold and flu season is a challenge.
Bob has been at home. He left for a couple of days on a job. When he got to Texas, they told him the job had been delayed. He had to wait to the next day to fly home. Bob has been at home A LOT. I have not.
Still busy at school. I am applying at a couple of other places. Don't know that I will make a change, but I am getting to the point that I need to make more money so that my retirement will be higher.
Tonight, Rach and the kids are coming for dinner. Then the week starts again. Five whole days at school...that will be different.
Have a great week!
Family milestones yesterday. Ryan and Mike turned 18 yesterday! They both seemed happy to have another birthday.
Our other "son", Drew's friend, C. J. and his wife Hannah just became the parents of a beautiful little girl, Gracie. I am almost as excited and Tim and Gerilynn, the actual grandparents.
I was really confused when Drew told me about it, since he said C. J. had called about 7:30 a. m. Since Gracie wasn't born until after 8:00 I didn't see how that was possible. Then I remember that Drew is an hour behind us. It is sometimes hard to remember what time zone all of our boys are in.
I had five or so days off last weekend. I was sick every single one of them! I only made it through this week at school by attending every other day. I hate wasting a break!
Mom came to visit during my days off. We did go house hunting and saw some nice houses. Bob, Rachel, the kids, and Robin were very good at visiting with Mom, when I would have to go to bed. Mom and Veronica got to go to breakfast and shopping. Veronica has a new favorite in the Country Kitchen Belgian waffle. Baby Cash was glad to see Grandma Martha, but she made the mistake of answering when he said, "Grandma." and he let her know that he WAS talking to Grandma Goldie.
Then Mom went home of Tuesday and has been sick ever since. I'm really sorry.
My ex-husband Dan's house burnt. Yeah, the one we built together. He and his family were okay and they had a rental house to move in. But there is great damage and he will either have a lot of renovation or have to rebuild. I am sorry he has to deal with that. Fire makes a mess of everything in the house.
Drew had a disappointment in that he didn't do well on the physical testing at sniper school and was sent back to his unit. He psychs himself out. However, his unit kept him unlike the others and he will just have a different job. He is still going to Afghanistan in June. He was disappointed about the school, but he is getting busy with all of the things he needs to do to deploy. He called me this week to talk about his will.
Rachel is doing fine. She is, as always, busy with the kids. Trying to keep them well in cold and flu season is a challenge.
Bob has been at home. He left for a couple of days on a job. When he got to Texas, they told him the job had been delayed. He had to wait to the next day to fly home. Bob has been at home A LOT. I have not.
Still busy at school. I am applying at a couple of other places. Don't know that I will make a change, but I am getting to the point that I need to make more money so that my retirement will be higher.
Tonight, Rach and the kids are coming for dinner. Then the week starts again. Five whole days at school...that will be different.
Have a great week!
Sunday, February 8, 2009
Living it up in February
NO! It is a word I have apparently forgotten how to use. I need to learn it again. BUSY, so this will be very QUICK!
Bob was in NYC for awhile. He has been home. He is now flying to TX. Air travel has changed and it takes FOREVER to get places now, since there aren't as many flights available and he has to fly cheap routes. I do not envy him.
Drew is in AR for sniper school right now. He sounds good and is excited. He is getting ready to deploy to Afghanistan in June. I am NOT excited.
Rachel is working on being thinner by working out. I am supposed to be, but do not have time to get to gym.
Veronica is looking forward to Valentine's Day. Cash is still pottying in the toilet. He still loves them tractors.
Haven't talked to Mike and Ryan recently.
Me, organized and delivered some things for Career Ladder, gained weight, taught regular school, taught after school program, did inservice, worked on writing club for upcoming meeting, worked a little on social club for upcoming meeting, wrote a 1000 word article for writing club newsletter. I have an upcoming week that could kill a lesser woman and may get me yet. Then, thank GOD it should be better.
Mom is coming this coming weekend. I hope I have some time to see her.
I did take the time on Thursday to watch my shows. Ellen, My Name is Earl, Grey's Anatomy, ER, and Private Practice. I can't wait until next week when I have time to sit down and watch something again.
Today, all I need to do is shower, rewrite the HeRA bylaws and policy and procedure manual, go to school, find where I left the tax envelope, get and grade 100+ tests, and do my laundry.
Here is the article I wrote for the Heartland Romance Authors newsletter. Copies in columns.
Opossums, Klingons, and Crazy Love
As your president, I could choose to write
about all of the hard work our officers and committee
members have been doing to learn their
new positions in HeRA or focus on some of the
changes we will be asking you to consider as we
bring in new ideas. Or I could just write about
the topic that is most suitable for the month of
February, LOVE.
Isn’t Valentines Day a perfect celebration for
those in the field of romance writing? It is the
one holiday that exists entirely for sharing love.
No matter your beliefs, love is something all
human beings seek, crave, and need. Advertisers
knew what they were doing when they chose
the feel-good symbols of lacy hearts, sweet missives,
fragrant flowers, and abundant chocolate
to honor February 14. Is there a better personification
of this holiday than that of Cupid? He
spends his time being attractive, semi-clad, flying
above mere humans, competently handling a
dangerous weapon, and whose sole purpose is
to make a perfect match.
Even if we aren’t currently involved in a romantic
relationship, we remember or want to
know what it is like. It’s why we go to weddings.
It’s why we read cry during a sappy
movie. It’s why we can recall the adrenaline
rush of something we did during our “crazy in
love” phase. And it is why we write. No matter
our genre of choice, it is the story of the human
connections motivating us to be in this field. If
we are asked, “Ain’t love grand?” Our answer
will be YES! Not only are our glasses half full,
our hearts are too. And writing is our way to
share.
A challenge for writers can be coming up
with good romantic stories to tell. For that we
use a variety of resources. I like real life examples.
I often look at newspapers sections on
engagements, weddings, and anniversary
sections for a little detail listed in the text.
I find inspiration by talking to people about
their own love stories. I learn about the silliness
of first relationships, awkward kisses, going
together, breaking up, making up, and what
came beyond. I’ve heard stories of second
chances when love wavered because of obstacles.
The best stories have come to me from
two people finding love and a new life together
after the one they had lived happily for years
came to an end. And the common thread in
these stories was the willingness of people to
give love a shot.
One benefit of doing much of your research
by interviewing real couples is…there are some
crazy love stories out there. Chance meetings,
mixed-up messages, missed connections, unplanned
circumstances, and unusual characters
are all fodder for prose making accurate the
statement, “You just can’t make this stuff up.”
Every love story has unique experiences.
Sometimes the story of two people in love can
be touching or even tragic. My favorites are the
ones when two relatively normal people will do
things they wouldn’t usually and find themselves
in situations they never expected in order to
please and be with their beloved. I call this
crazy love.
I have two examples of crazy love of my
own. I am an anomaly for my age group as I
have only dated two men. I am more chagrined
than proud of the fact I married the first man I
dated and when that relationship ended, I married
the next man I dated. It was not my plan.
After you read of my experiences while dating
them, you will understand how crazy love can
get to you.
Typical date for relationship one begins
when I am picked up in the Datsun pickup
decorated with sturdy handmade roll bars. On
the way to some fast food , while listening to the
only cassette tape available, Meatloaf’s, Bat
Out of Hell, small glowing eyeballs are spotted
along side the road. Immediately, the truck
slides to a stop and the quarry, also know as an
opossum, is captured by the tail. I won’t go into
to detail about how it ends up dead in the bed
of the truck. But it does, and it’s a good night
because the opossum hide can be traded in for
$2.00, which is a lot of gas in a Datsun. Followed
by the promised dinner, a movie, and a
few stolen minutes attempting unsuccessfully to
get our braces locked, the evening ends.
Dating example number two begins with us
meeting at a restaurant by the mall. I drive myself
because we are still in the six month period
where I refuse to get in a car with my date. We
met on the internet and I like him, but am still
waiting for possibility of the serial killer side to
emerge. After dining at a real restaurant, we
wander hand in hand down the mall where my
date “just” happens to notice there is a comic
book/gaming convention. He has a friend who
collects and would I mind stopping in? My response
was a trusting, “Of course not,” until I
saw the actual Star Trek Klingons waiting by the
door. After he paid my way in, because there
was no way I was going to do so, I discovered a
secret world. One with displays of items I
would call toys, but those in the know call
“action figures”. I would meet many characters,
some in costume, some who should be, and
many retired bunnies of the magazine type. It
was not my cup of tea.
Dates like these are what being crazy in love
will make you do. And while neither activity is
something I would choose to do in my life now,
I enjoyed them at the time. We should all bring
a little of that crazy love into our relationships.
The thrill of trying new things with the one you
love is worth the effort.
This February, bring a little crazy love in to
your life!
Bob was in NYC for awhile. He has been home. He is now flying to TX. Air travel has changed and it takes FOREVER to get places now, since there aren't as many flights available and he has to fly cheap routes. I do not envy him.
Drew is in AR for sniper school right now. He sounds good and is excited. He is getting ready to deploy to Afghanistan in June. I am NOT excited.
Rachel is working on being thinner by working out. I am supposed to be, but do not have time to get to gym.
Veronica is looking forward to Valentine's Day. Cash is still pottying in the toilet. He still loves them tractors.
Haven't talked to Mike and Ryan recently.
Me, organized and delivered some things for Career Ladder, gained weight, taught regular school, taught after school program, did inservice, worked on writing club for upcoming meeting, worked a little on social club for upcoming meeting, wrote a 1000 word article for writing club newsletter. I have an upcoming week that could kill a lesser woman and may get me yet. Then, thank GOD it should be better.
Mom is coming this coming weekend. I hope I have some time to see her.
I did take the time on Thursday to watch my shows. Ellen, My Name is Earl, Grey's Anatomy, ER, and Private Practice. I can't wait until next week when I have time to sit down and watch something again.
Today, all I need to do is shower, rewrite the HeRA bylaws and policy and procedure manual, go to school, find where I left the tax envelope, get and grade 100+ tests, and do my laundry.
Here is the article I wrote for the Heartland Romance Authors newsletter. Copies in columns.
Opossums, Klingons, and Crazy Love
As your president, I could choose to write
about all of the hard work our officers and committee
members have been doing to learn their
new positions in HeRA or focus on some of the
changes we will be asking you to consider as we
bring in new ideas. Or I could just write about
the topic that is most suitable for the month of
February, LOVE.
Isn’t Valentines Day a perfect celebration for
those in the field of romance writing? It is the
one holiday that exists entirely for sharing love.
No matter your beliefs, love is something all
human beings seek, crave, and need. Advertisers
knew what they were doing when they chose
the feel-good symbols of lacy hearts, sweet missives,
fragrant flowers, and abundant chocolate
to honor February 14. Is there a better personification
of this holiday than that of Cupid? He
spends his time being attractive, semi-clad, flying
above mere humans, competently handling a
dangerous weapon, and whose sole purpose is
to make a perfect match.
Even if we aren’t currently involved in a romantic
relationship, we remember or want to
know what it is like. It’s why we go to weddings.
It’s why we read cry during a sappy
movie. It’s why we can recall the adrenaline
rush of something we did during our “crazy in
love” phase. And it is why we write. No matter
our genre of choice, it is the story of the human
connections motivating us to be in this field. If
we are asked, “Ain’t love grand?” Our answer
will be YES! Not only are our glasses half full,
our hearts are too. And writing is our way to
share.
A challenge for writers can be coming up
with good romantic stories to tell. For that we
use a variety of resources. I like real life examples.
I often look at newspapers sections on
engagements, weddings, and anniversary
sections for a little detail listed in the text.
I find inspiration by talking to people about
their own love stories. I learn about the silliness
of first relationships, awkward kisses, going
together, breaking up, making up, and what
came beyond. I’ve heard stories of second
chances when love wavered because of obstacles.
The best stories have come to me from
two people finding love and a new life together
after the one they had lived happily for years
came to an end. And the common thread in
these stories was the willingness of people to
give love a shot.
One benefit of doing much of your research
by interviewing real couples is…there are some
crazy love stories out there. Chance meetings,
mixed-up messages, missed connections, unplanned
circumstances, and unusual characters
are all fodder for prose making accurate the
statement, “You just can’t make this stuff up.”
Every love story has unique experiences.
Sometimes the story of two people in love can
be touching or even tragic. My favorites are the
ones when two relatively normal people will do
things they wouldn’t usually and find themselves
in situations they never expected in order to
please and be with their beloved. I call this
crazy love.
I have two examples of crazy love of my
own. I am an anomaly for my age group as I
have only dated two men. I am more chagrined
than proud of the fact I married the first man I
dated and when that relationship ended, I married
the next man I dated. It was not my plan.
After you read of my experiences while dating
them, you will understand how crazy love can
get to you.
Typical date for relationship one begins
when I am picked up in the Datsun pickup
decorated with sturdy handmade roll bars. On
the way to some fast food , while listening to the
only cassette tape available, Meatloaf’s, Bat
Out of Hell, small glowing eyeballs are spotted
along side the road. Immediately, the truck
slides to a stop and the quarry, also know as an
opossum, is captured by the tail. I won’t go into
to detail about how it ends up dead in the bed
of the truck. But it does, and it’s a good night
because the opossum hide can be traded in for
$2.00, which is a lot of gas in a Datsun. Followed
by the promised dinner, a movie, and a
few stolen minutes attempting unsuccessfully to
get our braces locked, the evening ends.
Dating example number two begins with us
meeting at a restaurant by the mall. I drive myself
because we are still in the six month period
where I refuse to get in a car with my date. We
met on the internet and I like him, but am still
waiting for possibility of the serial killer side to
emerge. After dining at a real restaurant, we
wander hand in hand down the mall where my
date “just” happens to notice there is a comic
book/gaming convention. He has a friend who
collects and would I mind stopping in? My response
was a trusting, “Of course not,” until I
saw the actual Star Trek Klingons waiting by the
door. After he paid my way in, because there
was no way I was going to do so, I discovered a
secret world. One with displays of items I
would call toys, but those in the know call
“action figures”. I would meet many characters,
some in costume, some who should be, and
many retired bunnies of the magazine type. It
was not my cup of tea.
Dates like these are what being crazy in love
will make you do. And while neither activity is
something I would choose to do in my life now,
I enjoyed them at the time. We should all bring
a little of that crazy love into our relationships.
The thrill of trying new things with the one you
love is worth the effort.
This February, bring a little crazy love in to
your life!
Sunday, January 25, 2009
To My Grinchy Fans
Don't be such Grinches! I am the only one around here. I have blogged and blogged and blogged for you! I did so much you will have to click Older Posts at the end of the page to get back to everything I have written. As for my picture, what did you think I did at work anyway? G
Cash took this stunning picture of me!
Christmas Craft Night
Each year on the night after Thanksgiving I force my family to join together to bond at evening of crafts in honor of the upcoming Christmas season. This year we designed these lovely items.
Visors and puppets!
Rachel is 27 and a half. Drew is 23 and a half. They are still children at heart!
Baby, I'm Back!
Happy 2009 to all!
Yes, I have heard your complaints that I have not blogged for months. Yes, I am ashamed. Yes, I will try to do better.
General news. Thanksgiving went well. Drew came home from Colorado and showed us his new truck. Bob and I had our own little Thanksgiving dinner here. Then we had the annual Day after Thanksgiving Christmas Crafts night with Rachel and the kids and Drew here. This year we made visors and puppets.
We took Cash and Veronica up to visit Bob's parents before Christmas. Everyone had a great time. Cash was a little shy around Herman and Toni at first. But once Toni gave him candy, she was his BEST friend. He still looks at her picture in the living room and says, "Candy, ummm, good!"
We also went to see Santa. Veronica continued her long friendship with Santa. Cash did not care for him! Again, candy saved the day. We were able to get him to stay on Santa's lap long enough for a picture. Somebody was crying in the picture.
For Christmas, Drew came from Colorado again, my Mom came from Oklahoma, and Rachel and the kids came too. Christmas Eve we were all here with my sister Bev, my sister-in-law Debbie, and my friend Robin. My brother Bill had to work. We had fun and both Veronica and Cash were thrilled with their gifts. Cash's phrase for the night was, "Mo pesants!" Veronica just enjoyed it all. Rachel and the kids spent the night, so we got to have Christmas morning together. We really cut down on gifts, 1) because of the economy and 2) Rachel begged us not to add more toys to her house. Of course, we had to get some things.
On Christmas day, Veronica went to her Dad's for awhile to open presents with him and her grandpa and his family. Then Rachel, the kids, and Drew went to their paternal grandparents' house dinner where they met up with their dad and his family. Again, the kids loved the presents.
Bob, Mom, and I went to the casino to eat buffet and then drove around the corner to Bob's parents where we had a nice visit.
Then we all got together in the evening to play with the kids and their toys.
During the week Bob and Drew went to a gun show and shopping for man stuff. Mom and I went house hunting. We found one, but I don't know if she will buy it or not.
Then Drew returned to Colorado. Then right after that he left with his company to go for training in LA. Currently, he is in the low areas "fighting" in an actual practice Iraqi village. He has only been able to call once. Our conversation included this..."Yeah, today we got to shoot live rounds and have people shoot live rounds at us. And then Apache helicopters were dropping stuff down on us. It was cool!" Long pause on my part..."When you say people were shooting live rounds AT you, what exactly does that mean?" "Not really AT us, just toward us..." Sometimes you don't want to know the answer.
At the end of the month Drew is supposed to go to AR for actual sniper training. I won't be asking questions then either.
In the week before the new year, Bob, Veronica, and I followed Mom home and did a couple of repairs to her house, so she can get it listed. We also helped her sort. She is still doing that!
School started back and there was much drama between administration and staff. Somewhat smoother, but there are some hard feelings. It was nice to see the students after their break.
I have been very busy with some of the organizations I am in. I think I will be taking off the summer from any school duties.
Rachel has been working on her part of the textbook business. She was gone out of state for a couple of weeks and the kids stayed with me. It was fun to spoil them even more than normal. they were both very well behaved. Rachel goes out frequently with friends.
Bob has actually been home for weeks. He has appreciated the time to relax at home. He has gone out locally some days. He is leaving this week for New York and he might get to go see Mike and Ryan.
Bob has made LOTS of money this year! Teachers really are underpaid. I work much more often than he does. It was great to get some bills paid off, but this is the first year we don't have any kids to claim on our taxes. We are nervous.
Mike and Ryan has a nice Christmas too. They went over their aunt's for the day. Their Grandma Dolores sent us a picture and they both look mature and happy.
Some of our family have recently reached MAJOR milestones in their lives.
Big news for Ryan! He has now graduated from high school! Michael is scheduled to graduate in June. We don't know if they will choose to walk at graduation, but we want to go see them anyway.
Veronica has big news too! She is learning to write cursive letters. You probably aren't that excited, but she really is!
Cash has big news too! He can potty in the toilet. He is basically potty trained during the day. And if he wets at night, he gets up early yelling, "Get it off!" about his diaper.
Talk about progress!
That is about all I have. I hope you enjoy the pictures I am going to post.
Read more in 2010...just kidding...I will post again sooner than that!
Yes, I have heard your complaints that I have not blogged for months. Yes, I am ashamed. Yes, I will try to do better.
General news. Thanksgiving went well. Drew came home from Colorado and showed us his new truck. Bob and I had our own little Thanksgiving dinner here. Then we had the annual Day after Thanksgiving Christmas Crafts night with Rachel and the kids and Drew here. This year we made visors and puppets.
We took Cash and Veronica up to visit Bob's parents before Christmas. Everyone had a great time. Cash was a little shy around Herman and Toni at first. But once Toni gave him candy, she was his BEST friend. He still looks at her picture in the living room and says, "Candy, ummm, good!"
We also went to see Santa. Veronica continued her long friendship with Santa. Cash did not care for him! Again, candy saved the day. We were able to get him to stay on Santa's lap long enough for a picture. Somebody was crying in the picture.
For Christmas, Drew came from Colorado again, my Mom came from Oklahoma, and Rachel and the kids came too. Christmas Eve we were all here with my sister Bev, my sister-in-law Debbie, and my friend Robin. My brother Bill had to work. We had fun and both Veronica and Cash were thrilled with their gifts. Cash's phrase for the night was, "Mo pesants!" Veronica just enjoyed it all. Rachel and the kids spent the night, so we got to have Christmas morning together. We really cut down on gifts, 1) because of the economy and 2) Rachel begged us not to add more toys to her house. Of course, we had to get some things.
On Christmas day, Veronica went to her Dad's for awhile to open presents with him and her grandpa and his family. Then Rachel, the kids, and Drew went to their paternal grandparents' house dinner where they met up with their dad and his family. Again, the kids loved the presents.
Bob, Mom, and I went to the casino to eat buffet and then drove around the corner to Bob's parents where we had a nice visit.
Then we all got together in the evening to play with the kids and their toys.
During the week Bob and Drew went to a gun show and shopping for man stuff. Mom and I went house hunting. We found one, but I don't know if she will buy it or not.
Then Drew returned to Colorado. Then right after that he left with his company to go for training in LA. Currently, he is in the low areas "fighting" in an actual practice Iraqi village. He has only been able to call once. Our conversation included this..."Yeah, today we got to shoot live rounds and have people shoot live rounds at us. And then Apache helicopters were dropping stuff down on us. It was cool!" Long pause on my part..."When you say people were shooting live rounds AT you, what exactly does that mean?" "Not really AT us, just toward us..." Sometimes you don't want to know the answer.
At the end of the month Drew is supposed to go to AR for actual sniper training. I won't be asking questions then either.
In the week before the new year, Bob, Veronica, and I followed Mom home and did a couple of repairs to her house, so she can get it listed. We also helped her sort. She is still doing that!
School started back and there was much drama between administration and staff. Somewhat smoother, but there are some hard feelings. It was nice to see the students after their break.
I have been very busy with some of the organizations I am in. I think I will be taking off the summer from any school duties.
Rachel has been working on her part of the textbook business. She was gone out of state for a couple of weeks and the kids stayed with me. It was fun to spoil them even more than normal. they were both very well behaved. Rachel goes out frequently with friends.
Bob has actually been home for weeks. He has appreciated the time to relax at home. He has gone out locally some days. He is leaving this week for New York and he might get to go see Mike and Ryan.
Bob has made LOTS of money this year! Teachers really are underpaid. I work much more often than he does. It was great to get some bills paid off, but this is the first year we don't have any kids to claim on our taxes. We are nervous.
Mike and Ryan has a nice Christmas too. They went over their aunt's for the day. Their Grandma Dolores sent us a picture and they both look mature and happy.
Some of our family have recently reached MAJOR milestones in their lives.
Big news for Ryan! He has now graduated from high school! Michael is scheduled to graduate in June. We don't know if they will choose to walk at graduation, but we want to go see them anyway.
Veronica has big news too! She is learning to write cursive letters. You probably aren't that excited, but she really is!
Cash has big news too! He can potty in the toilet. He is basically potty trained during the day. And if he wets at night, he gets up early yelling, "Get it off!" about his diaper.
Talk about progress!
That is about all I have. I hope you enjoy the pictures I am going to post.
Read more in 2010...just kidding...I will post again sooner than that!
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