Dawn's Thoughts

The Noise, Jersey and the Flashlight

2010-10-13T03:02:00.000-04:00

The other night Jersey was just beside herself and Steve is running for the flashlight. He swears that he and Jersey saw something move. Who knows maybe they did. Now the dog is down at the heater vent barking and growling at it. Steve ever so brave has the flashlight shining it on the vent. Me I got the stethoscope and listened with the light and the dog. Nothing. Good thing cause if it was another squirrel I was outta here. 2 squirrels in my house in one life time is enough. NO More! We still don't know what it was.

Just A Chair

2010-10-04T21:26:00.000-04:00

No one can understand what it meant to me,
Sitting in it left me as comfortable as could be.
I would feel him close as if the chair were his arm,
leaving me feel like I was in no harm.
I am very sad, more than you can know,
I am really undecided at why it had to go.

Doing What Is Right!

2010-09-18T22:35:00.000-04:00

When something happens and you know in your bones that it is wrong you MUST try to make it right! I cannot and will not stand for the insult that has occurred. My out come may be a defeat, but I MUST use my voice or I have no business of having the position I hold.

My Week

2010-09-16T23:36:00.000-04:00

Monday the 13th of September was the 16th Anniversary of my mom's passing. Monday work and then at night a Board of Ed meeting. Tuesday work, an LEA meeting that lasted 2 hours, make dinner, and a Varsity Club meeting, Wednesday work and shop as it is the first paycheck since June. Thursday off to take care of a family issue that ends up not happening and is postponed. Am I looking forward to Friday, NOT! Football concession stand after work tomorrow. Saturday a ceremony where the band I have been wearing on my wrist will be cut off by the soldier I wore it for. He is home from Iraq. That will be glorious! So will the sleep when I come home. It is just the beginning of the school year and I am exhausted.

<-----My Mom

Why haven't I Visited for awhile?

2010-07-15T23:42:00.003-04:00

Big question. Many things have happened. Many I didn't want to speak about, like the death of a good friend. Then there was a birth in the family, that should be a joy to speak of. So much at work. To many health issues, and I am very angry! Not just very angry but extremely and even more so tonight. Is that why I decided to write? I think maybe I need to do this as therapy. Then again how many really want to hear what I have to say? Do you want to hear how scared I really am? Do you want to know how hurt I really am? Do you want to know that two weeks ago I probably had 3 of the best days in my life? Believe me there are not many. Do you want to know that thru Facebook I have found so many from high school and that we had a really good time at a get together? I do have many stories. So I am really going to try to have this be a catch up time. I said try. We shall see.

Preparation

2010-02-28T16:14:00.000-05:00

This is the month to prepare. For what you say? For everything! To begin with it is March Madness. If you are at our school in the fourth grade you are well aware of what it is. Teams the children have formed in their classrooms and their class itself. A point system will be in effect and the more points the better. They earn them by doing their work, acting/behaving correctly, getting along, etc. The prize, a trip to a indoor play area. Are they excited? Oh yes. The reason for all of the this, the TEST! the scarey TEST. How do I feel about bribing kids to learn so that the school/teacher/district looks good? I don't like it one bit! In the first place we shouldn't have to bribe the students to act/behave/study. That should be a natural. Unfortunately if you work with children today, of any age, you will discover that more often than not the disrespect is high in volumn. How does that change. It certainly can't in one month, or can it? Will something jump out and bite these children and make them change?
Preparation is also for the garden. I didn't have one last year as the lovely Jersey destroys all that I put out. This year I will have one, out front at least. She is being kept in the backyard. I missed my flowers last year and for my own state of mind must have them. I enjoy the colors and the fragrance.
Preparation also for a healthier me and Steve. Changing menu's and walking. At least I will be walking as much as possible. Steve's knee doesn't allow that but just maybe I can get him to try.
Preparation for doing something with this kitchen!!! I am taking the summer off, the first time in 16 years. I am really hoping that by September this ugly disaster of a kitchen will be something to be proud of.
Preparation for ...

10 Years - Charles G.Runquist 3-26-1963 thru 2-25-2000

2010-02-25T23:07:00.000-05:00

That smile. That Scooby Dooby Doo! That "How do ya like me now?" That "Come on Sis" Jumping in puddles.Playing his guitar. Stealing my 10 speed bike. Huge arms that gave me big hugs. Oh Lord I wish I had that now. Charlie forever missed but never ever forgotten.

My Morning

2010-02-20T11:51:00.000-05:00

I went with Steve this morning to the Toyota dealership. His truck needed service for an oil change, etc. We went over to the diner and had a nice breakfast. I love going to breakfast, he not so much. It was nice to do something together. After breakfast we went back and the truck was not done yet so we waited. When they did call us we went to the lot to "find" the truck. The "elementary" came out in me as I started singing, "Oh Where, Oh Where Can My Little Truck Be? Oh Where, Oh Where Can It Be?" I did see a man laughing at me. Well we ended up needing help finding the truck. (they really should put a colored sticker on the key chain for parking designation, of course I suggested that) Anyway now I know what to do when I have to go for service so all in all it was an educational morning.

Family Is a Gift

2010-02-13T18:19:00.004-05:00

I had a brother younger than I by years of two,

I loved him immensely no matter what we went thru.

He left me four ladies, three daughters a wife,

Thank you Charlie for putting them in my life.

Snowy February 2010

2010-02-10T15:26:00.005-05:00

Old Ladies Can Catch Snowflakes on the tongue too! I don't think I have seen this much snow since being a little girl. Jersey and I have taken quite a few photo's. If I can figure this out I will post some. One of the best games we have played has been with left over sausage. I threw and she play hide and seek finding it. The snow is very heavy and truthfully I hope we do not have school again tomorrow. it is better safe then sorry and it is not good out here. As I posted on Facebook I think the Lord has plans for families to spend time together communicating. After all he always has a plan. Okay let me see what I can get on this blog. Okay I tried and I have even tried to fixed it but well you can understand. Be safe and warm.

"Hide and Seek" with Jersey

2010-02-06T23:00:00.002-05:00

February 13, 2010 another huge winter snow storm. Jersey and I had a good time playing "Hide and Seek" with left over Kielbasa. I would throw a piece and she dove in for the piece. It was really cute. Steve is going to have to shovel again tomorrow as the County trucks came down and covered our walk again. We won't be able to get out of the driveway. Oh and that big lump behind Jersey is my new car, a 2003 Toyota Matrix. She must get uncovered tomorrow, not looking forward to that. Off to bed many things to do in the am.

A Nice Revelation

2010-01-21T21:48:00.002-05:00

Did you ever have one of those days where you were so happy that the deadline you thought you had is actually a week away. It is a ahhhhh moment with a big smile. :)

FED UP!!!!!!!!!!

2010-01-17T21:05:00.002-05:00

I have had it! The car gets hit, totalled and now I have no car! Can't even have a rental as it costs $19.99 fricking day for me to pay insurance. Steve arguing with insurance company, (the a hole that hit the buick), and so now what? Nothing! No Car! I feel like going to the little jerks house and telling them all the hell off! My luck I would probably get locked up. I am so sick of getting the short end of the stick with everything during my life!

Happy Birthday Jersey

2010-01-05T10:58:00.003-05:00

Happy Birthday Jersey! She is two years old and yes while she has driven us crazy she has also filled us with laughter. Steve gave Jersey to me for Valentine's Day two years ago and it was at a time that was extremely hard. She has become my best buddy and how wonderful it is that she is always so happy to see me. My puppy has filled my heart.

Last Post of 2009

2009-12-31T22:22:00.002-05:00

I went into 2009 looking at things one way and am coming out looking at things somewhat the same but a little differently. Empty nest has been a horrible thing for me. I do not and will never even pretend to like it. There although were a few moments this year when I was thankful for it. Even found myself happy that I did not have to "be" somewhere at a time. Found that I was grateful to just do what I wanted. So why does guilt come with that? A feeling that must be lost in 2010. Health, always an issue, never ends, but what will be will be. I want to do so much more, more what? I know, but am not attempting to do anything else right now. I will continue to have faith, to pray for my family and myself. Goodbye 2009.

Unknown Health Situation

2009-12-02T21:05:00.002-05:00

Yesterday I felt crappy, I was also fed up. So I guess being fed up made me feel crappier. Last night was long, very long. Belly discomfort, tired, just really wiped out. So I made the final decision, go to bed early and your staying home tomorrow. So I did. I slept thru to morning, let Jersey out and went back to sleep until 11am. This afternoon I got the shakes, that kinda shook me up. I even took a late nap and truthfully want to go lay down again. It has been awhile since the last treatment. Next one is December 28th. I know that has a lot to do with how I feel. It scares me a bit. What will the numbers be after this 6 month trial between treatments? I'll know soon. I may know already with how I feel.

Little Brother on a Computer

2009-11-22T11:05:00.002-05:00

My little brother got a computer. My niece put him on facebook. I don't think I ever talked this much to my brother when we lived in the same house together as I have in the last week. I know he will learn what is what, after all my husband did and I really didn't think he would. In the meantime I can pretty much count on the fact that every time the phone rings it will be Johnny. Yes, I do still love you.

Sewer Back Up

2009-10-28T16:54:00.002-04:00

I haven't felt well for several days. Yesterday I was greeted by a wonderful thing. The sewer backed up into the stationary sink downstairs. Thank God I was home sick and caught this in time. I also send praise to my towns sewer dept/public works. I called them and was told they were at lunch and would be back in 15, well in 25 they were here and my sewer was flowing again. Thanks Guys. Ironically my dad's profession for 22 years was doing this service for my hometown. November 14th would have been his 76th birthday so I figured he is up there sending me a reminder. Love ya Dad.

Cold Virus Cravings

2009-10-24T15:51:00.002-04:00

I crave carbs when I am really sick with a cold virus. I am going to ask friends if they do too and then add the answers.

"Pumpkin Patch"

2009-10-22T23:28:00.003-04:00

We had such a good time this morning. My kids participated in a "Pumpkin Patch" for the regular and disabled preschoolers. There were different stations about the area behind the school. Little pumpkins were hidden in hay, scarecrows were being stuffed, toss the pumpkin in the bucket and then my station, wagon rides. The wagons were very sturdy painted cardboard boxes with a jump rope tied to them. A little bit of hay was inside the "wagon" where the preschooler would sit as well as all over the ground. My "older" kids would carefully pull the little ones. Smiles and giggles were everywhere. It wasn't until we were cleaning up that I realized I did something to my ankle. Ah the size of it is just dandy. Well life goes on and nothing stops kids so a little bit of ice and some elevation will just have to do. It was a great day.

Tidbits

2009-10-18T16:50:00.003-04:00

Got lost again - was in the car - 2 hours 45 minutes -had cell but not strong enough - did get where I was going after a police roadblock.
Found really good buys at Goodwill - $150.00 comforter for $10.00 - washed it - Jersey ate it 1st night.
Sick to death of the rain and cold and rain and cold...
Mad because I want to go to the Corzine rally with Bill Clinton - can't go - other commitments
New glasses broke already!
This weather is killing marching band season.
Back to work tomorrow, long week, many meetings, head teacher out for three days.
Laughing cow cheese a good find - good tasting and low calories.
Still hate empty nest - but like that I can go...
Two months until Christmas - yes I have started shopping.
Have a good night - enjoy the games, even though the Eagles are bombing right now.

Marching Band Season

2009-09-28T16:38:00.005-04:00

One of the things that I love to do is go to marching band competitions. My kids were in it and at first I was like what? I learned so much and made great friends, one is now the mother in law of my oldest daughter. I would always say that we became friends while peeling carrots. I say if a teenager is willing to put that much time out then their parents should be there. It really is a shame that more aren't. I now go as a certain young man is the Asst. Director and I also go as I love it. Last Saturday was my first visit to a competition this season. 14 bands! and RAIN! Yuck! 3 hours sitting/standing in the rain. But I was definitely entertained as were many others. God Bless all those marchers, they did a great job. Oh and Mr. Asst. Director, so did you! :)

What is Jersey Doing Now?

2009-09-10T23:19:00.003-04:00

Pretty much anyone that knows me knows I love my dog Jersey. I know she is a big spoiled 20 month 72 pound crazy nut. But she is my nut. My darling Rott/Lab has eaten many of my shoes as I think that she thinks if she eats them mommy can't leave her. She eats my books and tears up my yarn as that takes my attention from her too. Forget my flowers, she dug up 80 bulbs! Well now she has a new item she decided she was going to try and get. My new glasses right off my face. She has tried a few times no with no luck. I just have to make sure that my big baby doesn't get them. Imagine if you will trying to read and then boom up on your lap out of nowhere she jumps on me in a way that she is in between me and the book. Then the fight begins trying to get her off. Forget it if there is thunder because she isn't moving and I am pinned. Yes I do love her, after all she relieves the empty nest and I get love back. My Jersey crazy as she is, gives me smiles everyday and that is why the eaten shoes are worth it.

Day #1 is Done

2009-09-08T17:11:00.002-04:00

I hate when people walk down the hall and say "only 179 to go". It is just so negative on the first day.
On a positive I was so proud of two of my girls today. They really listened and each answered a pretty tough question correctly. I have had 7 of my 8 kids for a few years, for 2 of them it is their 5th year with me. I love watching them grow. Not just in height but with personalities and consciences that think logically. I am sure that there will be those days where I want to scream but today was good. :)

Stay Calm

2009-09-07T20:52:00.003-04:00

Stay calm, that is what was said to me. I am calm, I am fed up and disgusted. Police cars go past this house doing high rates of speed with lights, without lights, with sirens or without sirens. Someone is going to be killed. There is a playground on the corner for goodness sakes! They don't drive by just one at a time, sometimes, most of the times it is 3 to 5 at a time. Mind you last night was huge, 5 or 6 shot, gunmen on the loose, helicopters. Yeah I hear you saying move. Well this house is paid for and I shouldn't have to move just because of one damn area that should have been taken care of long before this. When you read the police blotter it is the same damn building number area. Shouldn't that tell someone something? Maybe the police should just sit in an abandoned building in the court yard and then they will be there and be able to handle the crap right then and there. Okay now I'm not calm. I probably won't be on Wednesday night at the borough council meeting either but that's tough! Does anyone think about the children too? They have to walk thru this mess just to go to school. The powers that be should have officials standing making sure the kids get thru okay. Maybe we should have the military come and kick some butt! I know that it is not just here in my town but enough is enough!

Last Day Set Up

2009-09-05T21:53:00.002-04:00

I walked into school Friday at 8:00am and limped out at 7:23pm. The room is done for the most part. I am fully expecting for some of things to fall down so I am taking the hot glue gun in early on Tuesday. I wonder if the teacher I work with is hurting as bad as me, then again she is 20 years younger. I hurt where you shouldn't, and I found bruises. It all will be worth it when we see the smiles on their faces.

Songs That Stick In Your Head

2009-09-03T18:52:00.004-04:00

On "FB" I have gotten back in touch with many old high school friends. Yes after 31 years we know how to use a computer, "FB" does however confuse many of us. (myself included) So one of my friends wrote words to a song, yes and stuck it in our heads. Some else wrote the song words, "Do your ears hang low?" To which another wrote, "Do your boobs hang low? Can you tie them in a bow? Can you throw them over your shoulder...?" My addition - "Does your belly hang low? Did your babies help it grow? Does it wiggle when you walk? Do you hate to let it show?"

What Did You Do Today?

2009-09-02T17:40:00.003-04:00

How many times have you said to your kids, "Hi _________, what did you do in school today?" Well this week is full of inservices. Today our afternoon session was learning a new computer program for our media center and then we worked on new programs in the computer lab. All lessons must end on a fun note and ours did. We laughed and laughed while we took photo's of ourselves. There were so many settings for how you wanted your photo to look. Sepia, Comic, X-Ray, Wavy, Mirrored, etc. I picked a nice one to put on here. What a great way to end the day.

IT'S SEPTEMBER!!!

2009-09-01T17:55:00.003-04:00

September 1st, wow! So many things were talked about at our first inservice day that it all leaves your head spinning. Many things will be learned and reminded this week and then in just 6 more days we welcome the kids back. They will be very confused when they walk in. Teachers classrooms have been moved. Mine to a different floor. Although it is sad to end the summer it is exciting to be back. It was nice to see many old faces and meet new ones. Hopefully all will go well and everyone, adults included will get along. We all did go into education for the children.

Another Irritaing Issue

2009-08-29T10:27:00.002-04:00

I found a new thing that really irritates me. HIDING SIGNS! Since driving to and from Delaware on 295 I am noticing those huge Green directional signs hiding behind over grown bushes and trees. I am not a person that is familiar with 295 so the signs are very important to me as I am sure they are for many traveling on this highway. I will be contacting the powers that be to voice my concerns. I do hope that many others will do the same. Please pass this on so that we may be able to see the green signs again.

It Doesn't Matter How Old They Are

2009-08-28T23:23:00.002-04:00

It has been a very long thirty some hours. I am also out of practice. Not many mom's may run when their 25 year old gets sick, but I did. All the way to Delaware. Timmy getting sick is not good, especially with a high fever and how he was breathing. The asthma he has attacks fast and shuts him down. When I heard his voice on the phone yesterday morning I knew that this was going to be a bad one. It was. I put the boy, man, thru it. I just got off the phone with him for the 5th time, (at least), since I got back. He is doing better. I hated leaving him there, it almost felt like I was abandoning him. I know I wasn't but it did feel that way. Now I am going to get some much needed sleep.

Steve Mowing the Lawn

2009-08-24T09:17:00.005-04:00

I love my husband, I really do, even when he tries to mow the lawn. You see his dad never let him mow so Steve's first attempt was here. It was not a good attempt. His attempts get worse and almost landed him in the dog house many times. Especially when he mowed down my azaleas. Then the poor roses, along with everything else. The clumps and the green sidewalks are just a sight to see. Last night he started mowing. Then I didn't hear the mower, I look and don't see him. I go outside a little bit nervous, no Steve. Okay here he comes, he never filled the gas tank. Now that he got it filled he starts again. I am really feeling for him because with all of the rain the grass is growing fast and thick. Our grass is thick anyway. I don't hear him again, now where is he? Yikes he's in the back yard! He didn't mow there last week, it is really thick and high. I sneak out the front door, I see the lawnmower and no Steve, I go back in, I know he has been in the house, where is he now? Back outside. Here he comes, "Give me a big pliers"! None to be found. "Then give me a hammer!" I know this is not good. It wasn't. Bang, bang, bang!!! It's dead! He ran over something, the blade is mangled. The little green machine is in the back yard, alone, sitting on a lawn that is 1/4 of the way cut. I think we need to hire lawn people.

The Eyes Just Ain't What They Used To Be

2009-08-20T23:57:00.003-04:00

So it has happened. Reading glasses! I went for the check up fully knowing inside that he was going to tell me I needed them. After all the talk he said the bifocal word! NO! it came out of my mouth so fast I surprised myself and him. We both laughed. I picked out the frames, got measured and left after they ordered them. That was Monday, today, Thursday I picked them up. It is going to take a bit of getting use to. I am an old dog you know.

Blessing of the Sea

2009-08-17T21:57:00.005-04:00

I was down in Atlantic City for the Blessing of the Sea. The weather was beautiful and the Mass was lovely. Singers and instruments were added this year, I am not really one for that in the Catholic religion, but it was nice. They also did the mass in Spanish and even a little Italian. After mass inside then everyone goes outside onto the boardwalk. The statue of the Blessed Mother is brought out and we follow the Priest down to the ocean. He goes in the boat with the lifeguards, blesses the sea then throws a pretty wreath in the ocean. At that point everyone rushes to get their containers filled with Holy Water. I filled ten this year as I know of many friends that I wish to share them with. Blessings to all of you.

Yikes!!!

2009-08-12T00:18:00.001-04:00

I was going to write a rather lengthy post, BUT the stress I just went thru trying to remember how to change my photo has left me exhausted. There's always tomorrow. Night!

The Scrapbook

2009-08-03T22:41:00.000-04:00

Years ago I started separating photo's. Making a box, well several boxes for each of my kids. Then there is the Christmas bunch, oh and the vacation/trip bunch. Thank goodness I had them to that point as it really helped making Kimberly's scrapbook easier. Separating all of the photo's was never ending. I really do still have more pages to do. I know that I already did at least 25 back and front. The birthdays, a daddy and me page, a page for her and I, her and her brother, her and her sister, her and her Aunt, her animals, etc., etc., etc. Oh my let us not forget the stickers, the unbelievable amount of cute little helpers to enhance the book of memories. The deadline was weighing down on me and the wedding date was getting closer. Picking the photo for the cover was probably the hardest, but when I picked it I knew it was the best one. She is looking into the ocean, alone in her thoughts. I captured that moment, I love that photo. As she looks at the scrapbook she again is alone with her thoughts. Many memories of the past and every one of those memories have contributed to the beautiful woman she has become.

The Wedding

2009-07-29T17:12:00.000-04:00

There we are the parents of the bride. I think we looked great if I do say so myself. The anticipation leading up to the wedding was mainly the worriment of the weather. It ended up being a glorious day. Humidity wasn't an issue. No rain, just a super sunny day. The evening was fantastic also and the atmosphere at the reception overlooking the water was just perfect. Our sweet daughter made an absolutely beautiful bride. Her confidence helped her to shine thru out the day. The major shine however was when my new son-in-law looked at his bride in their dance. The glow of love surrounded the two of them. I pray it will forever.

Children

2009-07-24T22:14:00.000-04:00

Tonight as I sit here a mother of three totally capable young adults I just came out of a panic. "K" knows why and so does "T" as he was on the phone with me when I read about the bee sting. I doubt that "D" knows yet and I am sitting here thinking; "Wait until Steve hears about this!" I know that I cannot, as much as I want to, keep everything perfect and safe for my children. I never could. I can however wish it for them. I can pray that their happinesses and their successes will be huge. Am I going to worry, sure I am. I am after all their mother. I love you 3.

Tears

2009-07-16T00:38:00.000-04:00

Steve and I were deep into conversation during dinner. When I said, "Our girl is getting married in three days." "Yep" he said. Then of course the tears started, again. He said, "Your going to be a mess." I said, "Right and you are going to be balling your eyes out." Of course he denied that but I know different. I laughed and we talked about when I went into labor he couldn't even remember his mom and dad's phone number to call them. Tears, they come for all sorts of reasons. Her boo boos, especially the time she cracked open her head after Steve had just dug himself out to go to work in the snow. He had to come home so we could get Kimberly her 5 stitches that she earned due to her excitement about pancakes. Tears of when she went off to school, including college. Tears during all of our fights/strong opinions. Tears during the sickness and deaths of so many family members. Tears when that mean girl on the playground said, "You're not my friend today, you can't play with us." Tears when she yelled, "I can't read!" Tears at the breakups of boy and girl friendships. Tears when the pet we loved so much passed on. Tears when she couldn't help it because she saw her mommy crying. Tears of frustration, and then the tears of happiness. So many will be shed at what will be a day to remember, a day of love, a day of promises, a day that will start a whole new life and more tears. Hopefully all happy ones.

Happy 74th Birthday Mom

2009-07-03T22:36:00.000-04:00

I've thought of you all day. I have been thinking of you so much lately. You would be smiling ear to ear with your first granddaughter's wedding coming. I so wish you were here with me. I want a hug and even your silly kisses in my neck. I feel like I have no one and in truth I don't. When you died almost 15 years ago Pastor said in his sermon that "You will always have someone that will listen and forgive you". I realized then that I will never in my life have anyone, oh how true that is. My heart aches so much. Happy Birthday Mom.

Bumps and Bruises

2009-06-25T17:02:00.000-04:00

Last Friday I got hit in the head by a falling metal book end. How my head did not crack open I just don't know. The lump went up like in a cartoon. It still hurts. Then I didn't move my right leg in time and closed the car door on it, so scratches and bruises from that. Then today Jersey got away from me and during the chase I took a bad fall I am so sore, my right forearm got the worst of it. I am sure that bruise will last for weeks. :(

My Cold Heaven On Earth

2009-06-22T14:20:00.000-04:00

Turkey Hill Chocolate Cherry Cordial Creamy Frozen Yogurt - It's Fat Free with Calcium and Vitamin D - It is cold churned with live and active cultures - It came in a 1.5 qt. container and I could buy two containers for $5.00! ahhhh...

My Shopping Experience

2009-06-20T23:43:00.000-04:00

Off to Walmart for a few things. Bird food, a glance for things for the special project I am doing, Aleve, dog bones, computer disks to complete the back up, and light bulbs. All is going well, the decision of what disks to get was hairy but not even close to how hard it was to pick out light bulbs! I wanted 75 Watt light bulbs, not hard! HA! They don't come saying WATTS anymore! Reminders of being in the eighth grade when the METRIC system decided to make my life crazy came flooding back to me. Now some nut is going to totally make me nuts with changing watts on light bulbs. By the way if it has a number 67 that means 75 watts. I don't know why, I don't want to know why, I just want people to leave things alone! I want to talk to people on phones, not computers, but that is a whole other story.

Another One Gone

2009-06-18T21:52:00.000-04:00

When you work in a school system the amount of people you "know" grows. One young lady, Danielle, is someone I know. I know her mom, her sister, her niece, and I knew her finance. You see the person on the bicycle was her finance, Scott. they were high school sweethearts that had just recently gotten engaged. Tonight was the service. As I stood in line, again, for yet another young person, I couldn't help but look at the others that came in to pay their respects. So many that I have known since they were five years old. Please Lord look after the children of all ages, and please help Danielle.

My Little Brother

2009-06-16T00:25:00.000-04:00

I haven't felt well for a few days but back to work I went. After work a Summer Rec meeting and then my brother Johnny and I had something to do. He witnessed a horrible accident where a van hit a man on a bicycle and drug the man at least 150 feet. Johnny said the blood was everywhere and he just couldn't imagine the man surviving. God be with him. Well we got a little bite to eat and off to the Mall. (this is a first) We did what we went there for and then found a really cool place called "Krazy City". He took off inside! 44 years old and away he went. The place has a restaurant on the side and video games and rides everywhere. It was like being in a Wildwood arcade. I spotted him, started toward him, and away he went again. Okay this is nuts! I find him, starting the skee ball machines to have a competition with me. I am laughing now and I won by 2000 points! Older sisters rule! We pull our tickets and off he goes again, now to basketball. Where and when my little brother became good at basketball I will never know. He beat the record, blue lights were flashing, and tickets galore. He played at least 5 games. I can't remember the last time we laughed like that together. He took all of the tickets and divided them up and then gave them out to all the little kids that were there. A rough day turned into a great memorable night. Thanks Johnny.

Little White Lies Pay Off - sometimes

2009-06-14T14:23:00.000-04:00

Nascar's Pre Race show gave me a reflection of why I like Darryl Waltrip. He pulled a cute trick on his wife as did I on Steve. Waltrip's trick - a pretty girl drove up in her car and he asked her if he could look at her engine, she of course said yes. He did and while doing so pulled her coil wire. When she went to drive away the car of course would not start. He said he'd look at it for her, reconnected the coil wire and it started. They are still together all of these years later.
Me, I asked Steve if he could check my mom's gas tank for a leak as I heard he knew about cars. (I knew it had a leak) So he got a flashlight and I scooted under the car with him. Here we are 31 years later.

Steve, Jersey and the Hose

2009-06-07T22:50:00.000-04:00

The hose of course is Jersey's favorite toy. No need to water any plants as she has eaten them all. A ritual has started here. Steve comes home, shuts the gate, and I let Jersey outside. First it is the charge as fast as she can run to greet Steve, hopefully he is set to received the blow. Then the hose challenge. If Steve can catch her with it they have an unbelievable tug of war. Steve had yet to fall until tonight. In all fairness Jersey did to Steve what Steve does to her. She wrapped the hose around his legs and upended him. He is alright. Steve came walking in the back door laughing and telling me the story.

Three Little Things

2009-06-04T23:32:00.000-04:00

#1 Trouble in the lower end, legs, ankles and feet are all the same size, and that's 3 times the norm.
#2 Lost my temper last night, the boss gave me her opinion, I walked out before I said things that were better not said at the time, I calmed down, and then this morning I gave her my opinion. All is fine. I am just sick to death of happenings and attitudes.
#3 It doesn't matter what it is shoes, sofa, perfume, tissue paper, yarn, magazines, books, as long as it is mine, Jersey thinks it is hers. She jumps at me and actually takes her nose and hits my book out of my hands when I am reading. She scoots in between the computer and me. She also cries like a baby if I am on the phone. As soon as I hang up she stops crying. There she is now, knocking on the door, yes I did say knocking.
Toodles

Inside Thoughts

2009-05-30T19:31:00.000-04:00

Many things have occurred in the past few weeks. Many thoughts I have kept inside, and will continue to do so, at least for now. Politics, Union issues, the end of the year concert, worrying and praying for dear friends, and several scholarships have taken up a great deal of my time.
I guess that is a good thing, it helps the inside thoughts stay there.

Cole Slaw?

2009-05-11T21:02:00.000-04:00

Diane and I went shopping then out for a bite to eat. We both ordered wraps. When our order came out I said to to Diane, "Hey I didn't get cole slaw". She gave me hers. I took a bite. She laughed hysterically and loudly as I made faces no human should make. Yep, it wasn't cole slaw but some horrible cucumber something or other. The waitress even came over to see if everything was alright. We boxed up what we didn't eat and went home. I gave the box of extra food to Steve. He opened it, "Cole Slaw" he said. He took a nice big fork full. He shook, shivered, made faces and noises. Diane and I laughed. We explained what happened at the diner. He said, "Why did you give this s--- to me?" I told him I wanted him to experience it too.
He was not very happy, but Diane and I were.

TV Shows In Two Parts

2009-05-03T23:12:00.000-04:00

"Cold Case" = Good Show Tonight it made me mad! I can't stand watching a show and being really into it and then "to be continued" is looking at me! Are they crazy? Now I have to wait all week for the conclusion and my brain is getting old! I'll probably forget everything by then! Why can't they warn you in the beginning? Then if you know that you won't be able to watch the following week you wouldn't waste your time watching the first half.

Varsity Club Comes Thru Again

2009-05-03T16:14:00.000-04:00

Well it wasn't as bad as it could have been. Many people at the last minute really pitched in. Every year the Varsity Club I volunteer with has a Scholarship Fundraising Auction. This year things were looking grim. At the last minute it was pulled out. We raised $1,444.25, $87.60 less then last year but the amount is good for almost 3 scholarships. Now we start saving items for next year. Wow! It is just to early to think about it.

Happy 26th Birthday Kimberly

2009-05-02T23:41:00.000-04:00

26 years have certainly gone fast. The accomplishments are huge with you completing so many of your goals. I love you my sweetheart.

Happy Birthday Kimberly Marie.

A Sugarplum Thought!

2009-04-28T19:31:00.001-04:00

So I am at work on the playground/blacktop watching the second graders at lunch recess when it came to me. MY DRESS IS SLEEVELESS FOR THE WEDDING!!! Now what? I burn/tan easily. My conclusion; I am going to wear a sleeveless tank top when I am on the playground/blacktop and then I will change back into my "work shirt" when I go back in. I refuse to have a stupid half tan in the photo's.

Give it in Order

2009-04-26T15:22:00.000-04:00

This was cute. Jersey came in from being out in the hot, hot summer weather we are getting in April. I gave her an ice cube. She spit it out. Shame on me! Doggy bones are always first. Too funny! She ate her doggy bone then of course went for the ice cube.

Just Amazing

2009-04-23T18:00:00.000-04:00

31 years ago this past April 2nd was my first date with my husband. At some point in the beginning of our dating I was walking barefoot and got a sewing needle in the heel of my foot. Steve's mom tried to find it and get it out but with no luck. Two weeks ago I began to get an infection in my foot. Antibiotics were used. A blood circle began on my heel and another spot to the left of that. Well I went searching and found two quarter inch pieces of the sewing needle. I dropped the one piece and taped the other one for show and tell. It is amazing.

Still Hurting

2009-04-21T19:11:00.000-04:00

Stupid concussion is still hurting my poor head. The bruising is just now surfacing 4 days later!
I still feel like I am in Never Never Land but I went to vote in the school board election.

I've Had It!

2009-04-20T22:50:00.000-04:00

The last couple of weeks, scratched cornea, allergic reaction, infected foot, sick from treatment and slight concussion. Dark Cloud Go Away!

Steve's Adventure to Englishtown

2009-04-18T23:09:00.000-04:00

Steve gets so excited with anticipation getting ready to go on a "Parts" outing. He and his friend "Big Mike" are off to Englishtown, NJ to find just the right things for their vehicle restoration projects. They left around 8am and returned around 5pm. While Mike walked to his truck carrying a large truck grill, Steve came walking into the house with a bag. In the bag, all the way from Englishtown; a can of spray paint and TENNIS BALLS for Jersey!

A Lot of Work for Tuna Fish

2009-04-18T14:51:00.000-04:00

I wanted tuna fish on wheat with chips. No rhyme or reason, I just wanted it for lunch today. So in the car, (to soon to drive after my treatment), off to CVS. Tuna fish, $1.79 for 6oz., wheat bread $3.59, chips 99 cents. Home I go to make my sandwich. I leaned into the car to get the bag, SMASH! It was my head into the side of the car. Now I sit and am crying as it really hurt. What's worse? I still had to make the sandwich. I should have gone to WAWA, I could have gotten a whole darn tuna hoagie made for me, and spent less. Oh well I have a lump, but a contented belly.

Today's Ride

2009-04-12T13:21:00.000-04:00

Once a week I will say to Jersey, "Wanna go for a ride?" She of course gets so excited. One time a month I take her to McDonald's to buy her a double cheeseburger. Today's ride was funny as when we pulled in she got to whimpering loudly. The girl was laughing thru the speaker as I am trying to place our order. We paid, Jersey was louder, we got the order and she gobbled the cheeseburger even before we exited the parking lot. Then when home I got to thinking. My question, Do people think that they've hit the jackpot when they find french fries at the bottom of the bag? Jersey does. By the way she is outside running it all off while playing with her hose.

Fed Up With This Weather

2009-04-11T13:22:00.001-04:00

Do you remember that song? "Rain, rain, go away"? Please go away and take the cold with you. I am so sick of the up and down weather we are having. All I want to do is open my windows and sit outside in a nice warm breeze. Mother Nature Do You Hear Me?

Done Already

2009-04-08T23:25:00.000-04:00

I knew this week was going to be crazy, and it is only Wednesday. Today was work, therapy, and Ladies Auxilary. So when the hubby comes home and asks, as I am making meatballs and my sauce, "Why are you here? You told me you had a meeting." Crap!!! Off goes the oven grab the keys and purse and off to the fire hall. When is break? Oh yeah, 3:30 tomorrow. I can't wait.

A Rip Your Hair Out Week

2009-04-05T23:43:00.001-04:00

I am looking at the calendar for this week and I am ready to scream. Monday work, two meetings, and Dr.'s. Tuesday, work, three meetings. Wednesday work, physical therapy, and a meeting. Thursday work with consultation and who knows what else. Friday - sleep late, I hope.

Bloodwork, BooBoo, Brown, and Bed

2009-03-30T23:51:00.000-04:00

The boo boo - my right shoulder. Of course what was I doing? Trying to catch Jersey! Did I, yes after 35 minutes, several peanut butter covered doggie bones, and a lot of cereal. I was so angry I pulled the seat belt to hard and then I felt it, ligament damage they say. It got so bad that I gave in and am now doing physical therapy twice a week.
The new blood work results came in today. I don't like them. Glucose is 6.8 for the avg. on the 3 month test, should between 4.8 and 5.9. Menopause could be a hindrance with the "POS", who knows. The red blood settling test is quite annoying, it should be under 20, mine is 29. Well chemo is in two weeks so it hopefully that will go down again.
Brown, the new color of my hair. Neat highlights from the gray hairs.
Bed - off to it.
Bye

St. Patty's Day and such

2009-03-18T23:18:00.000-04:00

It was a wonderful St. Patrick's Day at school. Our class invited another Spec. Ed. class to come enjoy an Irish meal. We had corn beef, cabbage, carrots, green potatoes, and Irish soda bread. The kids ate it up and they really enjoyed it. Everyone got along and it was just a wonderful feeling watching all of them.
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More blood work today. My last regular testing showed the glucose as 161, other things weren't good either. Doc says that this is a complication he expected. Now a new pill is added to my smorgasbord. Next chemo 4-13, and in two months more regular blood work. Monday I am starting therapy for my shoulder, a bit of a tendon injury, thank you Jersey and my temper.
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Strange people come out when the weather warms. My eyes are watching, and my camera is charging and ready to snap.
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Socks! I hate them. I hate wearing them. I hate matching them. When Steve and I were married ages ago all of the socks were the same. They pretty much still are. He would drive me nuts telling me that I didn't match them correctly. Of course I gave him the pile and told him to match them himself. He did. I then used embroidery floss and sewed each toe with matching colors. Can you believe he said they were wrong again! Now the pile is huge! I can fill at least half a large laundry basket with his socks. The only good thing is I only wash them twice a month, if that.
Toodles

Feeling Guilty

2009-03-12T22:35:00.000-04:00

It has been a very long few weeks. Every day has seemed a little tougher to get thru for whatever reason. Tonight was opening night at the high school for the "My Fair Lady" play and I just could not do it. I got home, changed, and curled up with Jersey and slept. I usually am always there but have really backed away this year. I know that it is time, past time as my family says, it just doesn't feel right. Well I will be there Saturday, all day and night, God willing, then hopefully my guilty feelings will go away.

Jersey's First Dog Fight

2009-03-11T16:56:00.000-04:00

Okay so I am breathing now. Earlier this afternoon I heard screaming outside, of course I looked. Jersey was freaking out and there were 3 neighborhood girls screaming while chasing a brown and white pit bull. Thank goodness they got it. I figured all was well. NOT! The pit bull got away from them again and ran down the road, then it decided it was coming for Jersey. (she was on her cable) I had grabbed my chain leash to let the girls use it get their dog home. The leash became my whip as the damn pit bull jumped my fence and attacked Jersey. Jersey held her own with some help from me. I think that the pit bull was stunned with my hits but I didn't care as it was attacking my baby. The girls got into the yard, they grabbed the dog, I got Jersey inside of the house and then helped the girls get the leash on the dog. Jersey is fine, she was loaded with slobber and no teeth marks. She is napping now. To the left is her one year old birthday photo from January.

Women Are Wonderful

2009-03-08T13:53:00.000-04:00

Yesterday was long, as has been for the past two weeks. Camden County has a "Woman's Health Conference" every year for Camden County residents. It is filled with many workshops, vendors, a little breakfast and lunch. I sat and listened to the opening, very proud may I add as Lou Cappelli was speaking. I have known him since he was a young boy and now he is the Director of Freeholders for Camden County. One of the greatest things he mentioned was that the workers were NOT getting paid for the day, a very long one by the way. The workers from Camden County would be getting comp time. What a great idea. While yes we all would love more money, it is so nice to know that there may be a few hours if need be for an emergency or just for your mental health. Wouldn't it be wonderful if other businesses would follow suit. Well the workshops I took were "Herbs 4 You" with a wonderful presenter and I learned a great deal. The second was "Knowing Your Numbers", we all should know these. My third workshop was "Menopause/Hormones Going Crazy". After just recently being told I was perimenopausal, (which I really must disagree with), I was very interested in this one. Questions one would not dare ask were answered. Next year I really hope to see more beautiful women that I know there. It is worth it.

Daylight Savings Time

2009-03-08T00:46:00.000-05:00

Spring forward, Fall back. I love springing forward. I love the longer daylight hours and being able to sit outside into the evening in Spring. It is just glorious.

I Know Her Name

2009-03-06T16:59:00.000-05:00

My little second grader now has a name. She loved her Enchanted brush and the many hair items I bought her. She comes up to me every day now and we chat a bit. Yesterday she and I spent some time together doing her hair and getting to know each other. It was a a bit of time that reminded me why I am still on this planet. :)

An 8 year old

2009-03-01T12:25:00.000-05:00

Someone asked me, "How is he?". I said "He died." I was asked, "How, why?" I said, "I have my ideas but I do not know how or why." I miss him. He was the 11th, it just isn't right.

Hurry, Run!

2009-02-28T09:36:00.000-05:00

Yikes! The weather forcaster says inches of snow! I am off to buy the milk and bread!

Some Thoughts

2009-02-22T10:27:00.000-05:00

V-8 Splash is pretty good. Make sure you shake it and dilute it a bit. The Fusion is okay and I need to dilute it more than the splash. I am drinking a lot of diluted juices like these instead of soda. My glucose was 161 fasting and I have to see the Doc again. I don't need type 2 on top of everything else.
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Heard that people cashing in gold need to have eyes around their heads. Idiots are watching and following. Be careful out there.
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My dress is ordered for the wedding, which is coming fast.
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9 paychecks left until the end of the school year
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Why does my dog cover her water dish with a blanket?
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Why do I have arthritis? It hurts!
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I have 3 workshops this week. Lots of learning to do. Tuesday and Wednesday's are at night, and no I do not get paid for them. Thursday's is during my normal workday.
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Sadly I am going to a funeral this week also. It is going to be a very long week.
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Don't blame someone for something, as guess what - "I didn't do it!"
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Have a good day! :)

Ugh!

2009-02-11T20:34:00.000-05:00

The dumb "Idiot Light" is on again! :(

The Idiot Light

2009-02-10T18:04:00.000-05:00

Everyone knows what it is just by saying the "Idiot Light". It glares at you in amber or red. How dare it look at me. I've done everything I am suppose to do. I go every 3000 miles for the oil change, sometimes that takes 6 months to get there but it is never over the 3000 miles. I put gas in. I check the tires. I even try to keep the inside sitting area tidey and smelling nice. We will not talk about the trunk. So why does this thing look at me? A man Steve works with with put some doohicky machine on the car he said something about the gas cap. He made the "Idiot Light" go off. How nice of him. So now as for the gas cap I figure the man putting gas in the car didn't put the cap on right and that now all will be fine. What a joke that idea was. Not even a month later the stupid "Idiot Light" is back on. Me being extremely smart took off the gas cap and then put it back on convinced that the light would go off. Not a chance. So when I took it off again I even poked the little flapper open and let some air in. Still the "Idiot Light" is on. I have had it. I am just going to ignore it. That is what I hear others do so why not me. Oh but that horrible inspection time is coming. Crap! I still have the "Idiot Light" on. Okay Steve gets a
doohicky machine. He checks it. It says gas cap problems again. "Dawn did you get a new gas cap?" " No Steve I didn't." "Why not? Isn't that what you were told to do?" "No the guy said it was the gas cap, I figured he fixed it." Steve buys a new gas cap, resets the car with the doohicky machine, puts the new gas cap on, and tells me that I have to drive 100-200 miles. So anyway the "Idiot Light" is off. I drove 40 miles today. The other 60 to 160 will have to wait until pay day so I can get more gas to drive all those miles. Now, where to go?

It's Out!

2009-02-07T14:50:00.000-05:00

It was just plain ugly! I knew I was hurting myself. I would eat and drink things that I knew I would regret. The pain that would come and me saying "Why did I do that?" For 2 years I have suffered not wanting to admit that I must do something about it. Today I did. It is gone in a bucket with all the other culprits that do the same to others. Goodbye ugly molar.

I Don't Even Know Her Name

2009-02-06T10:19:00.000-05:00

No I am not talking about the song.
I am talking about a little girl, a second grade girl. She seems sweet, troubled at times. She was upset the other day as no one would play with her. I suggested she play with another little girl all alone. They did and they laughed. My heart felt better. Why am I still thinking about her several times a day? It is the hair. It is never brushed. I asked one day weeks ago, "Who does your hair?", "I do" she said proudly. I asked if she had a special brush to help her. She said she didn't have a brush. She will, and it will be the prettiest one I can find.

Come Play With Me

2009-02-03T23:23:00.000-05:00

One thing Jersey loves is the snow. At one point she flew across it and slammed into the fence. (never yipped) Here she is with a little basketball that she has not chewed up yet. Right now the snow is still coming down and the weatherman says it is going to continue for at least 5 more hours. I love just sitting at my picture window with the lights out and watching it glistening in the glow of the street light. What an absolutely beautiful sight. Now as for the morning hopefully it will at least be a delayed opening. I could definitely handle that.

The Grill Cover Wars

2009-02-01T12:37:00.000-05:00

I let the dog out. I prepared the hair dye, "Nice and Easy" #130. What a joke, nice and easy. The dye is on, the dog is to quiet. I take a peek. I open the door, out I go with dye all over my head and no shoes, let alone no coat. The fight begins. She's got the grill cover and it is a tug of war that she is definitely winning. The cover is ripped, the ice is flying and so am I. I take a spin with my bare feet on the ice. Away she goes with the grill cover in mouth. I recover. (have I mentioned my back was killing me before this started?) Now away I go I get a piece of it, I get a little more, I win!!! She jumps and grabs the cover in her mouth. I loose my grip, ah but I regain control! The neighbors I am sure are hysterical as they peer out the window over this lastest fight. I put the cover very high, put bricks on it. I go in. Ah, but not for long as she has climbed up and has gotten the cover again. I heard the bricks fall. This time I put on shoes. Grill cover battle #2 has begun. People walking down the street turn Jersey's attention to them. I've got the cover and off to the shed. Now if she figures out how to get it out of there I quit! Times up I am taking the dye out, but she is quiet again. I'm not looking as with my luck my hair will fall out.

Not Rolaids

2009-01-31T13:43:00.000-05:00

How do I spell relief? Taking the boobie holder off!

MOM HELP!!!!!!!!!

2009-01-29T16:47:00.000-05:00

How many times have you heard it? MOM HELP!!! Of course your heart stops and you run. When my kids were little a scream like that meant blood usually. This morning the phone ran with a MOM HELP call from my 25 years old. "My car is stuck" Of course I ran. I was so happy for the call. It is nice to still be needed.

Nature in White

2009-01-28T16:17:00.000-05:00

It snowed last night! Jersey had a glorious time at 4 this morning running around and eating it. To the right is the view out of my classroom. Only 8 rooms have this view and it is special. We see the deer, foxes, turkeys and nature. Very nice for the kids. It is raining now, but the weather man said more snow will come in a few days. Hopefully another delayed opening too!

A Great Day

2009-01-26T22:43:00.000-05:00

Saturday was wonderful. The morning spent with the oldest daughter, the evening with the youngest daughter. What a glorious day. By the way, please don't blame us if a blizzard hits.

A New Day, A New Year!

2009-01-01T19:14:00.000-05:00

2009 - So many changes are going to happen this year. So many happened last year too. What is the difference? I have a child getting married this year. That is huge! That is exciting! I have many more blood tests and treatments to get. That is scarey! I worry about everything and everyone. I must in this year have more faith. Is that possible? It has to be.

Headlights

2008-11-23T14:41:00.000-05:00

Driving at night has always been something people complain about. It bothered me during rain. Now it bothers me more. Especially with all the new fangled headlights out there. I just wish that people would leave well enough alone sometimes.

Department of Education in NJ is NUTS!!!!

2008-09-15T00:06:00.000-04:00

Just my opinion - When an educator works their entire life helping to mold the brains of little ones: they damn well deserve at least a plaque!! Shame on you Department of Education in the state of New Jersey - I am ashamed!

Some of Jersey's Adventures

2008-09-06T18:28:00.000-04:00

I'm back - again! So much has happened while I was gone so hopefully I can get my act together and blog more often. "Jersey", my little terror is growing up. 8 months old this week. She enjoyed the sprinkler so much we bought her a little pool. She has her own hose that she puts into her mouth and runs all over the yard with. This week found her at the top of the stairs. She has never gone up the stairs before. "D" greeted me on the front porch when I got home from work around 5pm. That worried me. She told me of Jersey going upstairs, (at 10 am) and that she was still there. "D" told me of everything that she did to try and get Jersey down, all with NO luck. Doggie bones on every step, "D" pretending that she fell down the stairs, ringing the doorbell, nothing worked. As it was when I got here it took the two of us 20 minutes to get her down. Down she did come me pulling "D" pushing and Jersey belly sliding on all of the stairs.

Enjoy the pic's.

I Am Fit To Be Tied!!!! :(

2008-03-10T00:00:00.000-04:00

I am sooooooo angry. Microsoft had 8 downloads, so I did them. Now I cannot get into my Yahoo email. Family cannot get into hotmail email. If that isn't enough the screen keeps flashing while I am typing this and everything looks like it is in outer space. So I guess the computer doctor is getting a visit from me. I may not be on for a bit. Wish me luck.

Guess Where I'm Going?

2008-03-03T21:27:00.000-05:00

I opened the email and that is what it said - nothing else. Oh the thoughts that went thru my mind. To a job interview, to purchase a ring, to a shopping spree, to buy a car, to get a puppy? What? So of course I emailed back. No answer. Mind you I am at work. So I call. No answer. Finally during my lunch the phone rings. I get my answer. Kimberly and Keith are going to Hawaii in July. My excitement for them is there. Now I can just worry about that long plane ride. Motherhood never ends.

Opinions

2008-03-02T13:01:00.000-05:00

Everyone has them. One person may have more than the next person but believe me everyone does have them. I said that one of my New Years resolutions was going to be not to give my opinion out. Guess what? It didn't work! I really did try but I just couldn't do it. I will say that I have held back and quite frankly have been extremely proud of myself when I did. I find that a person may not like "your" opinion but they will definitely think about it. In my opinion, giving your opinion is somewhat like being truthful without being hurtful.

Quiet is Over

2008-02-28T00:46:00.000-05:00

It was quiet here for about a week but the noise has started again. I think that Lucy (on the left) didn't know what to make of all the crying and barking. She began to have feathers fall out and would flap all over the cage. I had to get special food for her due to stress! It was funny as she played detective just checking Jersey (on the top) out. I guess that she figures the dog is staying so her voice has returned. So much for the peace.

8 Long Years on 2-25-2008

2008-02-26T01:03:00.000-05:00

My brother, my best friend, my heart - no one will ever take his place. His arms gave the best hugs. His strength all the way to the end of his life was amazing. I still cannot believe that he is gone. I will love you Charlie forever. Your Sis

Snow Day - School Is Closed

2008-02-23T12:51:00.001-05:00

Remember when you were little and listened for the number of your school. Then Yippee you hear it, NO SCHOOL! Did you ever think that when you were older you'd be yelling that same Yippee! Friday was a Snow Day. So nice. Extra sleep but then, whimper whimper. Realization, no extra sleep at least not yet. So on goes the shoes, on goes the coat, grab the camera, unlock the door, get the puppy. Hmm, I wonder what she will do. She had a great time. We played, then of course went back to sleep. I love snow days.

Diane Patricia

2008-02-19T00:36:00.001-05:00

20 minutes after arriving at the hospital on 2-19-1986 out she came. 9 lbs. 7 oz. The Dr. was upset that she wasn't 10lbs. Her first photo had her little fist raised into the air as if she was yelling CHARGE! Diane charges into things that she believes in and do not think you will change her mind. You can either walk along side of her or she will leave you in her dust. A young lady about to graduate from college and head onto graduate school she has her future planned with full expectations of what she will conquer in her path. Knowing my 22 year old and how strong minded she is there is no doubt she will achieve any goal put in front of her.

Happy Birthday my beauty, I love you.

Holiday Photo's

2008-02-17T23:23:00.000-05:00

I realized that I never published the holiday photo's. To the left is the family, Diane, me, Steve, Kim & Timmy. On the right John, Diane, Me, Steve, Laura Kim, Timmy, & Keith. We all had a wonderful holiday and really enjoyed each others company, many memories were made. :)

Valentine Day Surprise

2008-02-17T09:42:00.000-05:00

Valentine's Day was a day I will never forget. I was home sick and at lunchtime a friend came by to deliver my Valentine gift from my husband. As you can see we are the proud owners of "Jersey". She is a 6 week old Rott./Lab and has blue eyes. She is already extremely spoiled with many toys and just an abundance of love. She is a nipper so that will be a challenge. But she knows how to do her duty outside. I am just thrilled! :)

What A Day!

2008-02-11T21:59:00.000-05:00

Monday's are usually yuck to begin with. Going back to work and trying to tolerate all of the kiddies after they have had two days off. Today was just - different. I pulled up to school to find the electrican's truck and the Head of Maintence's truck parked up on the grass. Hmm, interesting. I walked into the Teacher's Lounge, hmm cold and no lights. Cafeteria - some lights, hallway - some lights, office - lights. Okay now I understand. As the day goes on, - Pop Pop Fizz Fizz goes on too. Screams and things flying thru the air as the pipe bursts in a classroom. Workers everywhere. Uh no! A few classrooms down, another bursting pipe and more water. Then when all seems almost calm at 2:30 Pop, Pop, Fizz, Fizz - the Teacher's Lounge. Water pouring faster than you can imagine. We are all grabbing boxes off the floor and running from the water. Our custodian, "Al", just reminded us that he is an Angel. I hope he had a good night.

Flu Shots

2008-02-06T09:44:00.000-05:00

Every year the dread of getting that sharp pointed thing. Looking to see where they are being given free. Cordinating your schedule to go and be stuck like a pin cushion. Waiting in line, waiting, waiting. Then the person that has to enjoy giving others pain gives you a "I've got you now" smile as he/she stabs you very hard and rubs it like you weren't just mutilated! Ok it's over, walk away convinced that you are good for the year. Wait! The news comes on, a new form of the FLU is out there! Guess what? You didn't get anything in that horrible shot to stop you from getting this "Strain" Great, just what I need to hear. Of course within weeks you know where you will be. So to all the other "Flu" buddies out there - I am going back to bed.
Ah-Choo!!

The Long Road

2008-01-23T19:23:00.000-05:00

The blood tests started months ago. Then the MRI's, the nerve tests, the x-rays, and then more blood tests than anyone can imagine. Treatments began, once a week. In went the IV. Lethal stuff going into the veins for at least 6 hours at a time 1 day a week for 4 weeks. Okay lets wait, crap now it's dehydration. Now 4 hours of fluids. Okay wait again. More blood work. Today, January 23, 2008, so far so good. Pray for no bruising, no major pain in the bones, no more numbing up my legs, no virus. Just wait. Wait for April 14th - treatments again - so they say.