I'm done at school! At least until we get back from West Virginia. I've done just about everything I can do without LMK's help and some key purchases.
I still have one bulletin board left to do, but I can't do it until they install my new whiteboard and re-glue the cork board. It is going to be my classroom jobs board. Right now, I have no idea what to do for that board. I have a Helping Hands board that is really cute or a notebook paper/thumbtack idea, but I'd like to do something different. Any suggestions?
My favorite bulletin board is my lunch count board. MY 4th grade teacher had this board. Each day, the kids come in and pick their lunch decision. I can tell at a glance who is absent and who is buying hot lunch, cold lunch, salad, etc.
Everything is pushed to the left side of the board so that the kids won't have to climb all over the computer to get to their name. I'm concerned it's going to be a bit tall for 4th graders so I might pick up my grandfather's old step stool when we're in Ohio. That should give the kids enough of a boost to reach the highest crayon. I tried to put the less popular lunch options at the top, too.
I also put up a bulletin board my mom did several years ago. It's called a pocket dictionary. I used library card pockets with the letters of the alphabet on them. This way, when kids need to know how to spell a word, they can bring me the Ss card or the Ff card and we can add it to the card for the next person who needs to know how to spell that word.
Since I didn't get to order some small pocket dictionaries for each student, I figured this would work instead. I didn't laminate the library book pockets so I hope they will hold up throughout the year. If not, I'll know to laminate them for next time!
Updated to add: I forgot to mention my current favorite thing about teaching. Blah, blah, blah impacting young lives. But honestly, I can order these and horde them all for me. Mmmmm, THESE are what being a teacher is all about. I got the big box with the "new" scents. Some are ok, some are NOT. Give me purple, red, blue, dark green, and brown any day. The new light blue and light green smell yummy, though. (Click on the picture to make them larger. You know so you can read all the scents.)
until my first injury in the classroom. While interning, I missed a chair and fell in front of my third graders. Then while student teaching I slipped on some black ice right before school started one morning.
Yesterday, while working in my room, I flipped myself out of my desk chair. I knew they were slippery on tile floor, but evidently they're just as rolly on carpet. I come by it naturally though, my mother fell off a desk one year working in her classroom.
I should have known it was going to be a bad week after the desk chair. This afternoon, I was standing on a chair hanging posters. When I "hopped" down my ankle gave out and I fell. Luckily, the file cabinet broke my fall. A lot of crashing later I was able to get up and limp home.
My husband was not amused. After a trip to the ER, I MAY have broken my ankle. They're sending me to an orthepedic doctor for a second opinion. Right now, I am on crutches and Loritab. LMK is having conniptions at the thought of me unsupervised on crutches. Heh. You'd think I was some sort of klutz. Oh wait...I AM some sort of klutz.
Please Lord, don't make me start my first year of teaching on crutches.
**Update: It's not broken! The ortho doc said I could even stop using the crutches. I may use them another day otherwise I tire out really easy.
Anyone thinking I should go back to school tomorrow morning? Yeah, me too!
This morning, my classroom looked like this:
By this afternoon it looked like this:
Why? The Assistant Principal came to tell me that they're ordering me a 12 ft. whiteboard. Woohoo! That means that painted chalkboard is finally going to be functional! I've got a room to rearrange and bulletin boards to change! I also got enough chairs for my desks, a new computer table, a new desk chair, and a new bookshelf. Squeeeeee!
As the principal told me, it pays to be around in the summer. We think of you when you're here.
Crap...I just ordered a bunch of chalk, too.
Anyone who knows me knows that I do not handle heat well. Nothing will drive me into drunken sailor-like cursing like being hot. Nothing. So with the current temperatures in Northern Virginia I am anything but pleasant. It's fucking hot!
Just to further piss me off, the air conditioning on my side of the school building isn't working. That's right, it's frickin' hot in my air conditioned school too! The administration knows there is a problem and to their credit they are doing all they know how to do to fix the problem. One of the secretaries told me today that I can either freeze or roast. Please! I will freeze!
LMK's CPAP machine is wonderful. He sleeps so quietly I find myself checking to make sure he's breathing. He's never slept so quietly. Of course, now I have to get used to sharing the bed again. Boo. When it's hot, double boo.
- I think I may need to tone down the school talk. Last night, I woke LMK up because he was snoring. He sat bolt upright in bed and exclaimed, "What grade level?" Heh.
- Speaking of snoring, LMK is now the proud owner/renter of a CPAP machine. Hallelujah! The very nice tech came out and showed us how to work it this afternoon. I could hardly hear the thing when she turned it on, so I'm not worried about not being able to sleep with it on. And, LMK has to keep his mouth shut when he's wearing it. Oh, those jokes just write themselves.
- I sat in the computer lab so kids could come in and take AR tests today. It was interesting to say the least. One dad said he'd come back for his daughter (and son who isn't in school yet) in about a half hour, and hour later he returned. In other words, I babysat today!
- One mom had an adorable little girl with her (maybe 3 at the most). Mom gave her a piece of candy which she immediately chomped. Then she wanted a piece of gum. Mom gave her gum with the strict instruction NOT to swallow it. ("It takes Benefiber to get it out of her," she confided.) Two minutes later, guess who wanted some gum. Mom said no, but got distracted helping the other kids choose new books. So the little girl just reached into Mom's purse and helped herself. Five pieces later, Mom caught on. It's gonna be an interesting weekend!
- Some else, please tell me you are addicted to this site. Every day, I find some to giggle over. They're adorable.
I've just had the best idea.
I'm still going to do the "Me in a Bag" activity, but in my bag is going to be a dvd - All About Mrs.
Opinions?
So...I was all prepared to let go of whatever angst I was harboring regarding my classroom after that last post. As Pigs says, bygones.
However, today, as I was trying to organize my desks and failing miserably, I remembered that her desks fit in the room easily. What am I doing wrong? I have 30 desks and they're just not fitting. What the hell?
So I come home and check the pictures I took when it was her room. They're different desks!
She took the "nice" desks to her new room and gave me all the ones that are missing screws and are insanely high for 4th graders! Did I mention I have 30 desks and 18 chairs!?
Oooooo, NOW I'm pissed.
I don't think there is much I can do but try to find a way to get rid of some of the desks. I have 6 more desks than she had, where on earth do I put them!? I figure based on the numbers I've been told, if I have 25 desks, I'll be more than safe.
Advice?
When I walked into my room filled with the former teacher's stuff, I almost had a panic attack. Everything was nicely organized but there was just so much stuff! There was no where to even put something down without losing it. Clutter and disorder make me anxious. I know you'd never guess that from the state of my house most of the time, but it's true. I left the room completely overwhelmed.
I checked in at school one day when she had come to move stuff. The principal suggested I go up and talk to her, so I did. Yeah. I don't think moving was her idea. Long story short, I didn't get a very friendly vibe from her, so I vacated post haste. I waited until she was done and then went back to see the room.
Everything was gone. Part of me was annoyed that she'd taken everything. However, like Carrie said, she probably bought a lot of it herself. I can understand. Heck, I would be doing the same thing.
That being said, taking the chalkboard erasers seems a little petty to me. The stuff she did leave in the room isn't all that helpful. The textbooks are in a pile on the counter. Not in nice, neat piles - just tossed on the counter. Along with the teaching manuals and whatever manipulatives come with the set. The computers are tossed on a card with cords strewn all over - no idea what cord goes to what computer or where they go. Figuring that out ought to be fun.
The one thing that makes me smile is thinking of the room that this teacher moved to. It's half the size of mine. Her new room is packed to the gills with stuff and she hasn't even gotten desks for the kids in there. Karma is a boomerang.
However, I have quite a bit of stuff myself. Not only do I have the things I've collected over the years while I was wishing for my own room, I've got stuff from teacher's I've worked with, and anything I wanted from my mom's room when she retired. Stuff, I got!
I just didn't know I should have gotten her erasers!
Silly me.
More pictures on Flickr.
On a scale of 1-10, (1 being "Whatever" and 10 being "I want to jab an ice pick in someone's eye I'm so pissed") how annoyed would you be if the teacher whose room you were moving into looked like this:
Considering said teacher waited 3 weeks to come clean it out when she was moving and then took everything.
Seriously. She even took the chalkboard erasers!
My opinion to follow.
Folks are still here. Both of them fell (at different times) within 24 hours of arriving. I guess I didn't stress the "our floors are super slippery" enough. Oy vey.
And yes, it does taste better fresh.
Mmm, mmm good.
They're coming! My mommy and daddy are coming! It will be their first visit since we moved. I am hoping to be super busy showing them around and keeping them entertained. We're hoping to make a trip here sometime this week. (Even though Mom said she didn't see a reason to go to the amusement park or the museum - uh, Mom, why go?) So, I might be scarce around here for a week or so.
They're also bringing a bunch of my school stuff. Hooray! Now...to get that woman out of my classroom. LMK also starts summer school this week, so he'll be gone from 8 to 5 at least every day and half a day on Saturdays.
Also, a classroom blog where the kids post weekly. 'Blogger' will be one of the classroom jobs.
Thoughts?
Since I haven't gotten my curriculum guides, teacher's editions, staff handbook, etc. I'm pretty much flying blind. I still want to be thinking about what I will do next year so I've been making lists. Here are some things I'm thinking about (I'll add to it as I think of more). Feel free to add suggestions! I'd love more ideas.
- I definitely want to institute some sort of classroom economy behavior system. Pigs has been gracious enough to send me what she did and it's given me lots of ideas. The scale of the system will depend if the other teachers take part or not. I'm perfectly fine having my own system and having a school store with school supplies and privilege purchases (i.e. extra computer time, homework passes, lunch with the teacher, etc.).
- I'm thinking of creating some sort of attendance incentive. One teacher I used to work for had a pizza cut into eight pieces displayed in his room. If everyone in the class was in school (no tardies and no early dismissals) he gave them a slice of pizza. When they earned the whole pizza they got a pizza party. That sounds do-able.
- I've been perusing the state standards and math ought to prove interesting. One word. Fractions. Luckily, I live with a math teacher than can explain any concepts I've forgotten. It sounds like I'll be teaching either social studies or science. I don't know which I'll have. Science seems interesting - electricity, plants and life processes, ecosystems, adaption, weather, etc. Social Studies isn't as clear. I think it's Virginia studies which could prove challenging for a non-Virginia native.
- The first day of school, I think I will introduce myself with "Me in a Bag." Then I'll give the kids a paper bag to create their own Me in a Bag. I'm thinking I will give the kids lunch size bags, that way there is less of a chance they can bring in inappropriate things. Still thinking on this one.
- My classroom website is already being created. I've put some basic things up but I'm open to suggestions on pages I should definitely include. I figured a homework page would be good. That way kids have less of an excuse about not knowing what the homework was if they're out of class or go home early.
After a lot of nagging (a LOT!), Molly, who just moved to Missouri, finally got a blog. Woohoo!
The girl needed a blog. She's a wonderful writer, takes great photographs, just moved away from home, and has to live with some of my extended family. She's in the running for sainthood in my book.
Now, to help her beautify her blog. I'm already planning to "show" her how to get a flickr badge, Haloscan comments, and a better template.
So please, swing by, oogle her furbabies and welcome her to blogging.
It's looking like LMK and I will officially be going to Chicago in August (the week before my birthday, coincidentally).
He's been invited to a coaching symposium (*yawn*) and I've always wanted to visit Chicago. From what I can remember of what he's told me, the US Women's National Team is putting on the symposium. Head Coach went to the one the US Men's National Team did in Cleveland last year. LMK has been jealous ever since.
The best news? Twin might be able to come, too. Correction, she wants to come, she just needs to make sure she can get the time off of work. If Twin comes, this trip will be lots of fun. Just like our trip to Jamestown...We Love Soccer, not We Love Lucy. I'll have someone to play with while LMK is at his soccer stuff. We will be able to attend the game with him though. So that will be fun. Twin enjoys soccer like I do. Meaning, we don't care about strategy - we're there for the cards! What should Twin and I do for the day and a half we'll have to occupy ourselves?
Should I be worried that he all but giggled like a schoolgirl when he found out he'd be attending not only the game against New Zealand but also a practice? It's nice to see him so excited. Evidently some big coach is going to be there too. I believe he called him the goalkeeping coach God.
Boys...they get excited over the silliest things.
Now, I must go play with my iPod.
the kids I subbed for in April will be in 4th grade next year. That means I'll have some of them.
Oh boy! Some of them were really neat kids. I'm already looking forward to it!
I think I may love her a teeny, tiny bit more than LMK right now.
He's handling it well.
I'm entertaining suggestions for names. LMK suggested Tallulah, but I don't know. It just doesn't sound right.
We all know what I'll be doing this weekend.
As most of you have guessed from my previous entry, I got the job! Hooray! Cue happy dance.
Tuesday afternoon, I went to my interview. I didn't have a lot of expectations because I'd interviewed before, but hadn't gotten the job. I did however, have lots of people "pulling" for me. Family, friends, LMK's work friends, people from my school in Ohio, people on one of the message boards I frequent. I'd gotten tips from my aunt's sister who interviews people ALL the time. There was good karma on my side. I was ready.
The interview went very much like last time. It was for a 4th grade job. They have 13 standard questions they ask everyone. I answered those pretty similarly to how I answered them before, or I think I did. I even got a few laughs - very much my personality. Then they asked me additional questions like how I would handle a disgruntled parent. I asked the teachers what their favorite thing about working at the school was (go me thinking up a question on the spur of a moment). Someone mentioned an after school program which sounds like a lot of fun. One of the teachers on the committee then asked if I was willing to stay after school. Well, definitely! I've done it before with tutoring in Ohio. The interview ended with a quick tour of the 4th grade hall, which was fun. I gathered my things, thanked everyone, and left.
After I left I ran to get thank you notes. I had some from the last interview, but I didn't have enough for everyone. I picked up the cards and a drink and went to LMK's classroom. I decided then and there to just fill them out and we'd drop them off on our way home.
We pulled into the school's parking lot about a half hour after the last meeting was to start. I took my thank you cards into the office and gave them to the secretary to hand out. The committee was still in the office meeting. As I was leaving, the principal called me into the room. The secretary gave me back the cards and I proceeded to distribute them. The principal commented on how I was quick on the turn around. Then she said, "Well, we're glad you came back. We've been talking and we've decided to offer you the job."
I swear to you, I forgot my own name at that moment. I blurted out an, "Okay!" I sat down and discussed some job details (including being offered the biggest classroom in the school - sweet!). I didn't linger. I thanked everyone again and told them I would be speaking with them soon. As I was leaving I spoke with the secretaries, who have always been really nice. One told me how the 3rd grade teachers raved about me after I subbed there. I honestly believe that they're a large part of the reason I got this job.
As I left the office, I couldn't stop smiling. I even got a little case of the sniffles. Luckily, I got myself together and put on a somber face for LMK. I got in the car and apologized for taking so long. "There were people talking and I didn't want to interrupt," I told him. I started the car, rolled up the windows, and started backing out of my parking space.
Me: "So...are you still planning on going to Large City this weekend?"
LMK: "Yeah. Why?"
Me: "Well...I just wondered, since I'm in the market for an iPod."
LMK (momentarily puzzled): "You're...oh my God! You got the job!"
Me (grinning like the goober I am): "Yup."
There was much whooping and hollering going on in that car. As we were leaving we got out to call people. I made him call my mother first who promptly burst into tears. Gotta love her. "I told your dad we had to go to church this week," she said. Heh. Thanks, God. :o)
Repeat that reaction about 10 times and you have the reactions of my family and friends. Twin said she had to call her mom who had been worrying about me. I love my family and friends.
I am waiting on an official call from the HR guy next week, but it looks like I will be a 4th grade teacher next year. I'm already making lists. Lists of lists of lists!
I have so much time and so little to do! Strike that, reverse it. (bonus points for the reference)
Thanks everyone for your well wishes.
I am officially in the market for an iPod.
That is all.
Have I mentioned I have a job interview tomorrow? At the same school where I didn't get the job last time?
Trying not to get my hopes up. Hopefully, I will soon be in the market for an iPod.
The kids are all leaving by Friday. The Stalkers will leave then. One will not be returning. LMK and I were saying today how much we're going to miss her. It doesn't help that they've decided that we're going to adopt them. They both have pretty absent fathers, so I'm not surprised they've attached themselves to LMK. An adult male that respects them, thinks they're wonderful, and isn't afraid to put his foot down when he feels they need it. Nope, they're not crying out for a father figure.
They're good kids. They wrote the nicest stuff in LMK's yearbook (he gets a yearbook, interesting). I love this time of year, yet, I dread this time of year. Change is constant; boy, do I hate that.
Oh, we got notice last night that LMK got his first student gift. He's excited...but hiding it well.
LMK is attending graduation today. It started at 10 o'clock. Anyone willing to be on exactly how long he's gone? Did I mention the location they're having graduation is indoors and un-airconditioned? And that it's supposed to be about 90 today? And that he's wearing long pants, dress shirt, tie, blazer, and graduation robes? Ohhhh, I do not envy him.
Of course, he's probably enjoying being away from me. As he should be. I've been in a really crappy mood since I got back from Ohio. It's nothing he's done, but he's getting punished. You'd think that would make me act right, it doesn't. As stuff comes out of my mouth, I realize how stupid I'm being. I'm sleeping way too much (12+ hours a night usually). Saying one thing, then saying the exact opposite. I swear, it's like I'm not myself anymore. Hopefully next week, I'll get my act together.
Molly left for Missouri today. She's the one that I'll really miss. Molly's getting the raw end of the deal anyway. Moving away from her friends, her family, her job and not getting a whole lot in return. I just hope she'll be happy there. Even though I want her back in Ohio with her family and near my mom. People who worry about her and put her needs at the top of the list. I'm not sure she'll get that where she's going now.
I must sound awful, but I know this is upsetting my uncle. My mother, well, she's a mess about it too. And if my grandfather were alive, he would be upset too - as it is, I'm sure he's churning in his grave. Molly's upset too. I hate when the people I love are upset and what's worse the ones doing it don't even seem to care. LMK and I might have moved, but we didn't sell the farm that's been in the family for over 100 years. Hell, we didn't even sell the house that's been in the family for 50 years. We just moved.
They're all gone. I miss them already and I'm not even there! My cousin, Mo Mom, requested a video of the farm. I've been against it for over a year. THEY wanted to move, THEY can deal with it. Don't get me wrong, I still feel that way, but I've got it just about finished. I'm waiting on pictures from the going away party from my brother. Honestly, the video doesn't make me sad, it still seems surreal. Ok, if I can make it through the first 25 seconds, I'm ok. If the video was something I wanted to do, I would go through and scan older pictures of the farm, but I honestly don't want to do that.
I uploaded a severely edited version of the video. You can watch it here. I don't particularly care for the song, but it's what Mo Mom requested. Names eliminated and people removed to protect the guilty.
Yes, that G.wen S.tefani song has been running through my head ever since I saw a woman on Ellen hum it horribly.
Today was a day when I wonder if insurance is really worth it. I am running out of my meds for high blood pressure. I've been on this medicine for over a year and it works great. Our insurance company however won't cover it unless 1.) I try several other generics first or 2.) My doctor sends his chart notes stating how I've been on this med for a year and blah, blah, blah!
My doctor won't change my medication unless I go see him. He's booked through June. I've been trying to get ahold of him for 2 weeks, I have 3 pills left. So I'll have to spend $15 for one of the residents to prescribe a new medicine for me. Stoooooooooooopid.
Socks meanwhile is being dramatic. When he knows I'm looking he won't open one eye. When someone new is here or he thinks food is involved, he opens both eyes. Typically it's Ollie with the eye infections. Argh!
This afternoon was the all sports banquet (all of the sports at the school recognized at once). LMK got a notice a few weeks ago telling him if he didn't join the booster's club, he could only attend the banquet if he paid $25. Joining the booster's costs $25.
They pay the coaches but it's nothing earth shattering, but my husband donates his time to coaching. LMK would do it for free (but don't tell them that). He loves coaching. Coaching, just like teaching, involves a lot of "weird" hours. Like the night we spent in ER because one of his players was hurt. Was it required? No. Would LMK have considered not going? Hell no, one of "his girls" was hurt. You'd have to fight the man off with a stick if something was wrong with one of his players. But I digress.
Am I the only one who finds it really tacky for the boosters to require coaches to become members? Yes, it's required. Another teacher who didn't join was told he couldn't present the awards for his sports to his players if he didn't join. The "banquet" wasn't all that great. The food...eh. I hope it wasn't catered, because it was NOT good. The speakers, too long. The seating, uncomfortable and crowded.
For your listening pleasure (i.e. so it can get stuck in your head too):
90% of the time, I love LMK's kids. They've got good manners and they are good kids. However, 10% of the time, they're typical teenagers.
Case in point, last night, LMK is grading the senior's exams. LMK is pretty leinient. He allows students pages of "cheat sheets" on regular tests, but he made the one for the final. Every formula they needed is on that sheet. He did not, however, put example problems so all they had to do was change the numbers around. They had to study. God forbid.
One little angel, obviously didn't prepare. This little angel is also one that is up at his desk during tests asking for help. When Mr. LMK wasn't around to help her, well, she was sadly unprepared.
On her test the following notes are written:
Dear Mr., I remember doing this problem and it taking three hours. I don't think this one should count.
Or this one.
Dear Mr., There is nothing about conics on the note sheet. I don't think this problem should count.
Dear Mr., Your note sheet is not helpful. I like making my own cheat sheet because I can put examples and I know what I'm talking about. Oh, there is a typo on your note sheet.
Dear Mr., This test is unfair. I'm going to have to give up and FAIL.
God help this little angel next year in college. Am I the only one that would have died before speaking to a teacher like that in high school? Ungrateful little brat.
Well, I'm home after my trip to Ohio. It was a good week. I was able to help my mother get ready for the going away party for my aunt, uncle, and cousins. We made cookies, upon cookies, upon cookies. If I never see another peanut butter cookie, it will be too soon!
I saw family (including my 94 year old great uncle and my 95 year old grandfather's wife/my adopted grandmother). I met Maggie, the new puppy. She's evil but adorable. I also saw people at my mom's old school including the teacher that partially convinced me to make a move. After feeling like I'll never get a job, it's nice to be around family and friends who believe in you. LMK has always believed in me, but he's biased. So are they, come to think of it, but I'm letting it slide.
In typical Ohio news, while I was away, I got a phone call about a job! Over Spring Break, I got word that the school down the hill was interviewing. As I've stated, I was eventually turned down for that job. However, Friday morning, I received an email about a NEW job at the same school. I called the school and talked to the principal again. It sounds like either a 5th grade position or a 4th grade position (she's not sure if she's going to move someone or just fill the position). The assistant principal was out of the building that day, so I'm planning to call tomorrow and let them know I'm back in town. I should know if I have a job offer or another interview then. At this point, I'll take either.
What got me the "second chance"? The 3rd grade teachers were impressed with me the day I subbed and the principal felt they might not have given me a fair chance.
Hooray for subbing!
Molly held another garage sale this weekend. I ended up being the big seller. Yay me!
Anyway, her dad came to keep her company on Saturday. He brought his german shepard/wolf mix dog, Matuk. Tookie is a big love bug. He's one BIG dog that I'm not terrified of petting. In fact, he climbed up beside me on the couch I was sitting on and put his head on my leg so I could pet his ears. He's just a sweetie. He loves stuffed toys. Guess who "purchased" all my stuffed toys? He kept stealing them from the garage and putting them in the yard.
He LOVED my Furbies. Interactive toys! He took one home and when Molly's dad went outside that evening he heard "Wahhhhh, wahhhhh, I LOVE YOU!" Matuk looked at Molly's dad then he looked at his Furby, then back at Molly's dad. She said it was almost like he was saying, "Yeah, my toy talks to me while you're gone."
Greetings internet, it tis I, the great and powerful Socks.
My mom and Dad are currently sawing logs. Well, Dad is doing his velociraptor imitation and Mom is watching all her reality tv shows. Sheesh, mothers, whatcha gonna do?
Anyway, Mom says that she's talked about my escapes here and I just wanted to set the record straight. First of all, it's tough being a "garage cat". I mean, sometimes, that food bowl in the kitchen is empty for a few hours. What's a growing kitty to do? I'm an adopted barn cat, so I know how to forage for my food. Mom says I'm a little vacuum cleaner. I've decided it's a compliment.
Speaking of Mom, people, we need to get her a job (isn't this picture evidence enough - oh the shame). She seriously is losing her mind. She runs that loud thing that sucks up all my toys incessantly. The noise is defening. It hurts my ears and well, I must admit to a slight character flaw. If it scares me, I'm going to hiss at it. Unfortunately, hissing doesn't seem to phase the beast. So I run. Hey, Mama didn't raise no fool!
Oh yes, I was talking about my wild adventures. The other day, I wandered into the kitchen to get some post lunch brunch and I noticed that the door wasn't locked with the key. Silly, silly Mommy. I love to jiggle doors until they pop open for me. It's a gift. I did a quick check and Mom was upstairs talking to Molly on the computer. I have to admit, that ticked me off. I miss Molly terribly and Mom sits and talks to her EVERY DAY! So, I waddled hightailed it down to my door and FREEDOM.
That door really isn't a challenge. They should get a better door for me to open. That one is sissy stuff. It popped open without a problem. After a few tentative sniffs, I tiptoed bound out onto the porch. I am kitty, hear me roar! I explored the driveway (boring) and then the yard. Suddenly, I noticed a huge fort. As I made my way inside, I noticed that Ollie, the sissy, had followed me outside. Sucker! I figured we'd play hide and seek. I tiptoed to the furthest corner of the porch and perched on a cement block. He'll never find me now. I thought.
Next thing I know, I hear naughty words coming from the house. Uh oh...Mom's spotted the door. I see Ollie rush back toward the door. Mama's boy. Not me buddy, I'm staying outside. Outside is great! Then I see feet walking across the lawn. I stay really still and hope she can't see me. After all, a good hider never reveals their hiding spot.
Unfortunately, I think Mom has played this game before because before long she looks into the fort and spies me. Then she's all, "Here kitty, kitty. C'mere baby." Let me tell you, I know my ass is grass. There is no way I am coming to that woman. She's high if she thinks I'll come to her. HIGH. I slowly squeeze through the hole in my fort and commence with grass sniffing. Have you smelled this stuff? It's awesome! I'm in mid-sniff when suddenly I grabbed round my somewhat large midsection and hoisted into the air. Damnit! She's got me in the kitty time-out hold and I can't even move. Curses!
Why can't Moms understand we men need our freedom?
I've just about had it with our continuing basement problems.
Last month, maintenance came out and once again snaked the drain. They went as far as they could but the drain is still blocked. They have no idea with what since as far as the drained it should be well into the main sewer line. They put in a call to the city and that's the last we've heard from anyone.
Here's the situation as it stands today:
- Our basement still has water flood in from somewhere at least a few times a month.
- We have drain flies everywhere - despite pouring bleach down every drain in the house several times.
- The basement STINKS - it makes me gag just going down there. I'm lucky if I can get a load of laundry started without getting sick.
- The only place I have to dry clothes is in the basement, thus I am terrified our clothes are going to smell as bad as the basement.
- With the flied in the basement, I want to spray something to kill them all, but I'm worried about hurting the cats.
- Our automatic garage door has not been fixed. We asked for it to be fixed in March.
I refuse to live in squalor anymore. We're paying a significant amount of rent each month and I don't think we should have to live with this crap. Literally.
P.S. Socks escaped again this weekend. Luckily, LMK was home to help find him.
It would appear that I need a new template. However, I haven't quite mastered this template like I did the old one. I can't change out the background images to suit my fancy. That frustrates me. I like changing my template. It makes me happy. I change my furniture around frequently too. If I can't buy new stuff, sometimes, changing it's arrangment makes me feel like I have a whole new room. (Look at me rationalize.)
Here's my problem. I LOVE the layout of this template. Stuff on either side, blog posts in the middle. Plus, I can add and subtract sections as I please (I've at least figured that much out). I've all but decided I want to keep the three column set up.
So! Where do I find blog templates? Preferably free ones. However, since LMK has a real job, I might be persuaded to purchase a template. But I'm cheap. I balk at $20. $50 just is not an option.
Suggestions?
I've been a lover of Broadway shows for years. I must attribute this love to my high school choir director. I truly enjoy seeing these shows. I submit, for your...approval(?)
Shows I've Seen
Phantom of the Opera (3 times)
Jesus Christ Superstar
Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat
Beauty and the Beast (2 times)
The Sound of Music
Swing!
Thoroughly Modern Millie
Forever Plaid
Showboat
Oklahoma!
Seven Brides for Seven Brothers
Jykell & Hyde
Movies of Shows I've Seen
Thoroughly Modern Millie
Evita
Showboat
Chicago
Moulin Rouge
Rent
Phantom of the Opera
Seven Brides for Seven Brothers
Shows I WANT to See
Mamma Mia!
Rent
A Chorus Line
Miss Saigon
Les Mis
The Lion King
Music Man
Titanic
Wicked
The Life
25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee
Shows Others Have Recommended:
The Fantasticks - Thanks, Erin!
Shows I'd See Again
(in case you get tickets, you know...call me!)
Forever Plaid
Beauty and the Beast
Phantom of the Opera
Seven Brides for Sever Brothers
Joseph & the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat
I've been fighting it for a while now, but I think it's time to make a confession.
I think I like R.achael R.ay. I've tried to hate her. I've tried not to like her, but frankly, it's just not working. I watched her Chefography and couldn't help but like her. I watch 30 MM, and though some days I can't listen to her, I've made some of her recipes. They're good. They're quick. What's not to like?
A couple days ago, I bought a Santuko knife. I've been dying for one. It's not orange like hers, but it's sharp. Bets on how long before I cut myself with said knife? LMK has a betting pool going.
Anyway, her show today sealed the deal. Sure, twins who hate each other are interesting. As I've said, my dad is a twin, so that relationship isn't such a mystery to me. I'm sure like any family relationships - being a twin has it's good points and it's bad points. However! Today was also Mystery Taster* day. I just happened to catch another day when she had Brad Garrett as her Myster Taster. Oh my goodness, it was funny. So when I saw that it was Mystery Taster day, I dvr'd the episode.
I love the mystery of it all. So today's MT was riding down on the "elevator" and I'm just as eager to see who it was as the rest of the people. Today's MT was Julie Andrews. Oh, how I love that woman. First, what's not to love? Being the Disney freak that I am, I love Mary Poppins. The Sound of Music is also a favorite. I just bought the dvd of Thoroughly Modern Millie with her and Mary Tyler Moore. And please, don't even get me started on The Princess Diaries. She's so effortlessly regal. So polite and kind and gracious. For weeks, all I could talk about was how she was going to sing in the sequel, even though she hasn't sung in years and --
Sorry. But, Julie Andrews!
Anyway, my point is, when RR saw that Julie Andrews was her Mystery Taster, her reaction was fantastic. It was exactly what I would do.
So for that, I've become a R.achael R.ay fan.
* If you haven't watched the show, once a month (I believe) RR has a Mystery Taster come to her show. She whips up something for the guest and they sit and chat.
After reading yesterday's post, LMK came into the bedroom and said, "How about both?"
"Huh? Both what?" I mean, who am I to argue when someone tells me I don't have to make a choice and can have both things I want? But I'd like to know what I'm getting.
"A job and a baby."
"Ohhhhhhhhhh...cool! Where we gonna get them?"
In other news, LMK and I keep talking about getting a golf cart. He lives literally within walking distance of his room, but having a golf cart to zip him down to the soccer field would be nice. Ok, who am I kidding, a golf cart to zip ME down to the soccer field would be nice. I guess we're technically not supposed to drive on the lawn between the road and the soccer fields, but everyone does it. However, I'm a rule abider so I part and walk, and it sucks. I've decided what we really need is one of these. Nothing fancy. It's doesn't have to have heated seats or defoggers or anything. Just a cute little car for LMK to toodle around campus in.
While I'm compiling my wish list maybe I should add central air, a million dollars, and world peace.
What do you wish for?
I hate it when people say, "I have nothing to say." I feel like I should be posting, but really, there is nothing going on around here.
LMK has about 5 weeks of school left. He's also got a handful of seniors who have had senioritis since February. They've gotten worse this last semester and he's got a few that are failing. Interims go out this weekend, so hopefully that will shock some of them into towing the line. He's busy teaching and coaching. I see the man for a few hours in the evening, but otherwise, the poor guy is either working or sleeping.
Oh! Have I mentioned that he's been told he will be the head coach for the girl's AND the boy's soccer teams next year? He's beyond excited. Right now, he's working on getting a pre-season camp approved for the boy's side. I've seen schedules and rules and pamphlets and letters just about every night this week. Keep your fingers crossed that it gets approved. If it doesn't, kids return on September 1st and their first game is September 1st. Crazy!
I also offered to host a team cookout when the girls finish their season. I know, I've lost my mind, again! What can I say, insanity seeps in from time to time. I don't think it's going to be anything too fancy. The dining hall will furnish the food (hot damn, I don't have to spend the money on food) and LMK will grill the food. I'm somewhat concerned about seating, as we have 2, count them, 2 lawn chairs. But we do have a bench seat on the deck and I don't mind if the kids sit on the deck rails. Oh, they're high school kids, they don't need chairs. What was I thinking?
LMK has also signed up for his first class toward getting his teaching license. He's going to be doing online class through Virginia Tech. (Like there is another place we'd consider attending.) I believe he has to take 5 classes. I've taken all five. I've even had several of the professors he will have. When we were in Ohio, I grabbed my books and notebooks for the classes he will be taking. I hope it will help him be more successful in his classes.
Still nothing on the job front. I can't say it isn't getting to me. I haven't heard anything about the interview 2 weeks ago. I've heard NOTHING from Large County. I keep hoping something will come through. Honestly, at this point, I need something to occupy my time.
I'll even let LMK choose. Either I get a job, or we have a baby. Guess which one I'M voting for.
Since LMK's game was cancelled today, he invited a couple of his students/players over for dinner.
We had KFC and watched chick flicks. LMK had a ball...ok, he put up with it. I had fun though. All in all, a good time was had by all.
Also, I do NOT miss being in high school. The angst. Oh the angst.
So, today has not been the best day. The basement has water in it again and it smells. I sent LMK an email and told him I have had it. It's ridiculous that this is an ongoing problem. I want it fixed. If it weren't for having to pack everything up, I swear I would move home. (I'm having a melodramatic day...it will pass.)
Being the wonderful husband that LMK is, he immediately called maintenance and started planning for me to go home. I don't necessarily want to go home, I just want things to be better. I'm hot, which is never good and I'm emotional (for at least another few days). 90% of the time I love living here, but 10% I just want my friends and my family. It's getting better though.
Finally, Socks is on Mommy's bad list. He loves to get doors open that are closed. He does it to closets, he does it to the door to the attic, he does it to the bedrooms we have shut off. It's like a personal challenge to him. After the maintenance guys left, I went upstairs to piddle. I talked to Molly for a few minutes and then heard a door slam. I looked out the window and saw that maintenance was back. Great! I went downstairs to pretend to be interested and saw this when I hit the landing:
Oh no.
There wasn't a cat in sight. I ran to put on some shoes and went outside. I went out and looked out in the backyard from the porch. No kitties. "Here kitty, kitty," I called softly so as not to scare them if they were outside. No kitties.
I went back into the house and went around to the kitchen to go outside, as I was stepping out onto the back steps I saw Ollie slinking around terrified. Ollie thinks he's a big, bad kitty. However, when he gets outside, he freaks. All he wants to do is figure out how to get back IN. I opened the backdoor and called softly, "Here kitty, kitty." Ollie saw me standing in the doorway and I think his first instinct was to run. However, he figured out he could get back in through that door. I stepped out of the way and he came running back inside. One down, two to go.
I secured the door (I checked this time) and set off looking for Socks. First, I went into the backyard. No kitty. Then I looked under the porch. Lo and behold, in the furthest corner from me was Socks sitting on a cement block. "Here kitty, kitty," I called softly. Socks looked at me with a look that clearly said, "Hey, I know I'm in trouble. There is no way I am coming to you." He sat on the block for a few more minutes (seemed like hours to me while I was figuring out if I should crawl under the porch to get him, stay put, go get LMK, etc). Then he started out from under the porch toward the front yard and the neighbor's house. Of course, I can't get to the front of the house from where I am, it's fenced off. I high tailed it around to the front of the house where I met him coming out from under the porch. "Here kitty, kitty," I called again. Being the big dumb goober he is, he came to me so I could pet him. At which time, I clamped a hand around his neck and hauled him into my arms.
By then I was sweaty and cranky. The kitties? Oh they think they're big and bad.
Well, we made it through our first Parent's Weekend! More accurately, LMK made it through. I really didn't have that much to deal with for the weekend. Just one hour of "duty" (babysitting) at the middle school on Saturday. LMK is the one that had to get through parent conferences, NHS inductions, and various dedications at the school. I even got to watch a little of Friday's competition. (I have some video if anyone wants to see it.)
In other news, I think LMK and I have some stalkers. There are two of his players that I really like. After their win on Thursday, they walked up to our car with us. Then Saturday at the middle school, we ran into them again. That evening LMK and I took a walk around campus. Most of the parents were gone and campus was quiet. As we passed in front of the girl's dorms we hear, "Hi Mr.!"
Yep, it's them.
Yesterday, we stopped in the grocery store to get some cash. Who should we see... Poor LMK. He continues walking when we hear, "Hi Mrs.! Hi Mr.!" We stopped and chatted a few minutes and then continued on our way.
Good thing they're good kids and we both like them. Otherwise, I'd be hiding out.
Next week will be better, right?
I'm bringing LMK some lunch this afternoon. He can't wear his Hokie wear at The School, but I can.
LMK won his game last night. Yaaay! He was so excited. The girls were so excited. It was a good win for them.
This weekend is Parent's Weekend, so we're going to be super busy.
Don't forget. Moment of silence today at noon.
I am subbing today for the first time in Small County. I'm excited and terrified. I'm also glad that I will be out of the house and unable to focus on the news and media. My heart and my thoughts are in Blacksburg, but I will not stop living because of one crazy person.
I clicked on the webcam last night to see if I would be able to view the vigil. The picture is what I what I saw. It's sadly beautiful.
LMK is doing better. He's wearing his Hokie tie.
Last night, I decided I needed to do something...so I did this.
Someone finally sent me Nikki Giovanni's poem.
We are sad today and we will be sad for quite awhile. We are not moving on, we are embracing our mourning.
We are Virginia Tech.
We are strong enough to know when to cry and sad enough to know we must laugh again.
We are Virginia Tech.
We do not understand this tragedy. We know we did not deserve it but neither does a child in Africa dying of AIDS, but neither do the invisible children walking the night to avoid being captured by a rogue army. Neither does the baby elephant watching his community be devastated for ivory; neither does the Appalachian infant killed in the middle of the night in his crib in the home his father built with his own hands being run over by a boulder because the land was destabilized. No one deserves a tragedy.
We are Virginia Tech.
The Hokier Nation embraces our own with open heart and hands to those who offer their hearts and minds. We are strong and brave and innocent and unafraid. We are better than we think, not quite what we want to be. We are alive to the imagination and the possibility we will continue to invent the future through our blood and tears, through all this sadness.
We are the Hokies.
We will prevail, we will prevail.
We are Virginia Tech. "
As in many households across the world, our home has been filled with talk of the shootings at Virginia Tech. As names of the fatalities trickle out, LMK and I check the list for people he knew/worked with or had while he was at Virginia Tech. So far, he knows 2.
I watched the Convocation over the internet today while I subbed for LMK. The entire situation is surreal. I'm looking for a copy of the poem Nikki Giovanni wrote and read at the end of the ceremony. (Search for We Are Virginia Tech) After a little searching, I found the footage on Fox News. Ms. Giovanni's poem was perfect in my opinion. I don't think I was the only one who got chills when all of Cassell began chanting, "Let's go, Hokies!" As Ms. Giovanni said, "We will prevail".
At a teacher message board I frequent, one poster is railing against the administration's handling of the situation. As much as statements like these sadden me, they infuriate me even more. Could it have been handled better, certainly. Were mistakes made, probably. However, no one thinks it will happen to them. Looking back, we see signs we didn't see before because we KNOW WHAT TO LOOK FOR.
It's so hard to describe Virginia Tech to someone who has never been to the school. It's a huge school with 26,000 students. Huge. However, I never felt like I was attending a huge school. My department was small and very close. LMK's department was smaller than mine and even more close knit. We never felt unsafe. The worst thing you had to worry about was someone flying around the drillfield when you stepped out to cross the street. I never worried about my safety or LMK's safety. Now, to have that sense of safety shattered so violently has thrust us both into shock. Things like this don't happen in Blackburg.
Another thought I have been struggling with is the reports of a professor that died trying to protect his students. What a wonderful man he must have been. As a teacher, I find myself wondering if I would do the same thing for my future students. The truth is, I don't know. Would I die so that they may live? I hate that I don't immediately say yes. LMK would. He's just that kind of guy. But me? I can't say that I would. Does that make me a bad person? A selfish person?
I read this this morning and she describes what I cannot describe so well."When you go to Tech, it’s in your blood. I think of the kind of camaraderie and the pride -- they call it “hokie pride.” It sounds corny, but it is how proud the students are of their school."
But I’m really hopeful because out of the worst tragedy, you watch people rise up. And it will happen on the campus of Virginia Tech.
"
Those students will rise up. I’ll bet on that."
Last night, I put out our Virginia Tech flags. I'll wear my maroon and orange and I'll know - they really do match.We are Hokies. We are strong. We Are Virginia Tech!
Oh. My. God.
I lived in West AJ my freshman year. LMK's department was located in the building next to Norris. He had all kinds of classes in Norris.
The reality of how lucky we are sets in from time to time. The whole situation makes me ill. What kind of world do we live in?
I'm afraid the administration is going to have some hard questions asked of them when this is over. Two separate shooting incidents in one year. They better get a handle on this quickly.
Please keep all the students on campus in your thoughts.
**Updated to add: 30 reported fatalities. LMK called at lunch and I burst into tears. How can people be so awful.
Not thinking about what is going on at home today. LMK has had enough excitement over the past day or so that a calm weekend is looking great.
I'm working on a movie for Mo Mom's girls (a.k.a. my cousins). It's lots of fun. Ever want to have a giggle, talk to a child. Don't just talk. LISTEN to them. I've spent the afternoon laughing and giggling at all the funny things these kids do and say. Makes me want to teach even more.
Definitely thinking of getting a Mac someday. I love computers for making movies, making webpages, and uploading digital pictures....why DON'T I have a mac?
And it's not JUST because Little Brother got this, but that's part of it.
I just got home from my interview with Small County. Knock on wood, I think it went well. It's one of the few interviews I can look back on and say, you know, I didn't say anything stupid, I didn't have an idiot moment, or a foot in mouth moment. Whether or not a job comes from this, I am pleased with the way my interview skills are developing. I am no longer a bumbling fool. That alone is worth a big woohoo!
In other we-don't-talk-about-it news, tomorrow is the auction of the farm. They're selling all the tractors, farm equipment, etc. All of my cousins are coming in (or are in) from Missouri. My aunt and Mo Mom are excited - it's all about them. Me? I'm severely bummed. I can only imagine how hard tomorrow is going to be on my mom and my uncle. 100 years of farming and now, it's gone. Okay...enough of that. Happy thoughts, happy thoughts.
Damn, it just occured to me that I didn't ask when I would hear whether I got the job or not. Damnit!
Normally, I don't do a FOAD. Life's too short and all of that. However, an event that happened this past Sunday definitely warrants a FOAD of epic proportions (at least for me).
First, FOAD to Martin's. I accept responsibility for being in the express lane with more than my share of allotted items. I'm the devil, I'm going to hell. HOWEVER, I do no apologize for not seeing the tiny, partially illuminated, sign that was obscured by "Pick of the Week" balloons. Move the balloons and hang a frickin' sign above the checkout lane like every other grocery store.
Secondly, a big, huge FOAD to the asshole behind us in line. Once I realized my mistake I began to apologize profusely and offered to reload my cart and move to another check out lane. The clerk was very nice and said that wouldn't be necessary and that the sign WAS hard to see (see above).
You, however, couldn't let it go.
Yes, I understand that it's Murphy's law that you end up behind me in the grocery line when you're "just trying to buy your lunch." I apologized, not once, but several times. Furthermore, I don't care when you "learned to read" and the implication that I cannot read really pisses me off.
I made a mistake, it happens. I'm sorry I'm not as perfect as you are, asshole. However, the next time you decide to berate me in line at the grocery store, I will NOT give LMK The Look in order to silence him. I will let him tell you off and ruin not only my day, but hopefully your day as well.
We're back to our "normal" lives. LMK is working. I'm subbing for him on Thursday afternoon. I have an interview on Friday for a job in small county. The job is actually at the school I can virtually see from our front yard. It's literally down the street from us. I'm going in hoping for the best. I really like what I've heard about Large County, but a 30-45 minute commute does not fair well against a 30-45 second commute. I like the administration at the school so that is another big plus.
In other news, I have my fingerprints, I just need to take them down to the board office along with a check for $37. Forgive me if I'm being a bit cheap. I had a set of prints done for The School and they took care of whatever fees needed paid. Not only will Small County not accept The School's record, they want me to pay additional money. I'm a sub - money doesn't just grow on trees for us!
My plans for the rest of today include catching up on the shows I have DVR'd, playing with my newest toy (my electronic portfolio is going to be bitchin'), and perhaps making a movie for my cousin's daughters. I have great video of Wild Middle Child shoveling in berries and peaches while making fruit pizza. So cute.
Lucy riding shotgun with me in the golf cart.We're home.
The boys met us at the door. It's nice to be missed.
I spent yesterday with my cousin's two oldest daughters. We had a great time. We made pillow dogs for lunch, vegetable and fruit pizza for dinner, punch, gak, sponge animals, drawings, colored eggs, made mugs, strung candy necklaces, and door hangers. 153 pictures/videos later...
We had dinner with the whole family and I got to play with the youngest daughter. I'm glad to be home.
But I miss my family...and Lucy.
The auction of the farm stuff is this coming weekend. Not sad about missing that.
6:30 A.M. - The first of the gravel truck start rumbling by to get in line to be loaded.
6:33 A.M. - Give up trying to ignore them, get up and close window.
6:34 A.M. - Crawl back in bed as another gravel truck rumbles by.
6:37 A.M. - Turn over and squinch eyes shut. Must sleep. Cheese plate today.
6:42 A.M. - Officially cannot sleep. Begin planning what to do with A3 when they arrive Friday.
6:51 A.M. - Hear Dad downstairs having coughing fit.
6:55 A.M. - Gravel trucks start rumbling back down the road taking their first load of the day to wherever they take them.
6:58 A.M. - Turn over again and count slowly down from 100. Sleepy time.
7:05 A.M. - Alarm on one of the dozers goes off. Wee ooo wee ooo wee ooo. Damnit!
7:13 A.M. - Have planned several different activities - many more than I have time for. Maybe we'll stop at Michael's on the way home today and check what they have for kids to make.
7:22 A.M. - Car zooms past.
7:26 A.M. - Hear LMK snoring somewhere in the distance.
7:35 A.M. - Recycling truck rumbles up, air brakes hissing.
I need to go home to the city where it's quiet, in order to sleep.
That's the best way to describe how I feel.
I'm home...but this isn't my home anymore.
I miss my parents, but there's nothing here for me anymore. Jobs are non-existent or dead end.
We moved for the right reasons. It was the right thing to do. Change is good, but it's still difficult.
More when I get home. Enjoy your week everyone!
Happy birthday Charlotte!
Five Minutes for Mom is giving away a Dyson vacuum! Boy, it would be a nice one to have upstairs, instead of lugging our huge vacuum up and down the steps constantly.
Go sign up - good luck!
Tomorrow we're heading to Ohio. Woohoo! Maybe then all my weird dreams will stop. Anyone know the significance if you can't open your eyes in a dream? I still do stuff, I just can't keep my eyes open.
We made it to West Virginia a day early. Woooo. Actually, it's not that bad. The drive is long and there are several big mountains to climb, but the scenery is gorgeous. I've found my future home. It's a gorgeous log cabin located on top of a mountain. You can see it for miles and miles and miles. Finally, all of a sudden, you round a corner and - BAM! there it is on top of the mountain you're driving by. Not a great winter home, but I bet the view is amazing.
In other news, I'm less itchy. MUCH less itchy. The meds are still making me neurotic - hyper (I don't sleep much) and I always feel hungry. However, according to the scale today at the SuperMegaMart, I've lost over 20 pounds since we moved. I scoffed all the way to the car about how "off" the scale was. Oh, perchance to dream, that it was actually accurate.
Today I cleaned out my car. It really needed it. I still need to get it washed, but I didn't want to waste time doing it today since it will be parked outside the rest of the time we are here and it's supposed to rain. I vacuumed the interior, emptied the trash, organized the maps (of which we have way too many), and cleaned the dash. My in-laws Armor-All must be stale or something. I remember is smelling kinda icky, but this stuff? It's awful. It smells like a sweaty construction worker sat in my car with his equally sweaty donkey. It's disgusting. I tried Febreezing - it didn't work. Must pick up an air freshner tomorrow when we go shopping.
Lastly, my mother-in-law is truly a Martha Stewart wanna-be. Everything is always neat as a pin and smellin fresh. Our bedroom is so fragrant I have to unplug the horrible air freshner at night just to be able to breathe. However, I can say I have seen it all.
She has an air freshner...in the garage! The garage!
I apologize for my lack of posting lately. I've been itching.
About two weeks ago I started getting a rash on my legs. I took some wonderful allergy medicine (how I love that pink and white pill) but the rash began to spread. So by the middle of last week, I was literally going insane. Being itchy is one thing that will seriously send me off the deep end. So I made an appointment with the doctor for Friday. Friday morning, they called to tell me my doctor wasn't coming in. Would I like to see another doctor? HELL YES! Usually I don't like the unfamiliar but I was so miserable I decided to I could deal with a new doctor.
So far, I really like the new doctor. He's soft spoken and answers all my questions. I think I like him better than the doctor we had been seeing. He looked at the rash on my legs and said, "Boy...that looks angry." Uh, yeah! And itchy as all get out. I racked my brain for things I've changed recently. I switched a medicine about a month and a half ago because our insurance requires us to try a different medicine first (what a crock). I also switched laundry detergent when we moved, 3 months ago. We've carefully ruled out all these possibilities. The doctor gave me an antibiotic and told me to stop taking the new medicine. He also did a biopsy of the rash and sent to to be tested. HE CUT A CHUNK OF MY LEG OUT! I have stitches! Stitches!
Well, I took my antibiotic and I still itched. In fact, the rash spread. Sure, parts of it cleared up some, but it was getting bigger. The pink and white pills were barely taking the edge off the itching, but the doctor didn't really suggest anything else for me to do. I took a LOT of baking soda baths.
Yesterday, I went back to see the doctor to find out what the lab report suggested. It was vague, like he thought it would be. They think it's a reaction to a med. Dangit! Then I started thinking about it. I take 3 medications every day. One I had to switch because the insurance required me to try this other medicine first. The other I switched in January because I had been taking it and a water pill, now I have the pill that includes the water pill (I take one pill instead of 2). The last one I switched almost 2 months ago to generic (once again, our insurance wants generic covered first). So I told him, now that I think about it. I've fiddled with all my medications in the past 3 months.
Great.
He put me on prednisone which should fix the problem (he says). Of course, my mom was on the med when she had her allergic reaction. It will raise my blood sugar, so I'll have to be careful. He said it will make me feel hungry - great just what I need. It could also make me irritable - how will LMK know? Finally, it could make me hyper. Hehehe, oh LMK is in for a great spring break.
Spring break starts today at 4. Woohoo! We're going to West Virginia for a few days next week. Then it's back here for an interview with Large County on the 31st. After which we will immediately head to Ohio! Have I said woohoo?
We had an exciting weekend.
Friday, I went to the doctor because my rash was still itching and still getting worse. He was as stumped as I was about what had caused this rash. He did a biopsy (ow) and gave me some antibiotics. I go back to see him on Thursday and hopefully he'll know more. Meanwhile, I'm still itchy. It waxes and wanes, but generally, I itch.
Friday evening we set out for Richmond. Of course, at the time it was alternating between sleeting and snowing - making the roads lots of fun to be on. However, we took our time and made it to Richmond in 3 hours. Only a half hour longer than it should have taken. Our hotel was right downtown, only 6 or 7 blocks from the convention center. LMK and I discussed it and decided that since the weather on Saturday was supposed to be very cold and I was planning to wear a skirt that we would get up early and drive to the convention center instead of walk.
Then we went off in search of food. We had no idea where we were going, so eventually we ended up back at the hotel. Around this time, I was getting VERY, VERY itchy. Of course, I had forgotten my Cortisone cream. We checked the phone book, located the nearest Wal-Mart and set out. We drove and drove and drove. No Wally World. Finally, LMK spotted a Target. Hooray! Target! I like Target better anyway. I got some cream and we started back to get dinner. I chose Panera and LMK chose Wendy's. LMK was tired and ready to go home, he would have picked anything at that point. We got our food to go and went back to the hotel. We ate and LMK called for a 6AM wake-up call. Me? I was still itchy. Finally at 11 o'clock I fell asleep.
At 4:30 our phone rang. WTF!? "This is your wake-up call." LMK called the front desk to see what was going on and we decided that some wonderful hotel guest had called our room to prank us. Grrr. We tossed and turned for a few more hours until our real wake-up call came.
We arrived at the convention center at 7:30 and we were able to pack in an adjacent parking garage. Hooray! We checked into the Teach-In and waited until the booths opened. I visited 6 surrounding school districts. Two weren't conducting interviews. Small County had sent the man I had interviewed with for subbing. He asked if I had all my paperwork in and essentially sent me on my way. Gee, thanks. I'm consistently underwhelmed by Small County, but I digress. I interviewed with two districts. One is where a friend of mine teaches. The other is Large County. I am in love with large county. I want to work there.
LMK was able to meet with licensure specialists and figure out exactly what he needs to do to get his teaching license. He also met with two universities a local one and the only one (Go Hokies!). He wandered around the booths while I was interviewing wearing his polo from The School. Wouldn't you know it, the man from Small County tried to recruit him! "Are you happy at The School?" They don't give me the time of day, but LMK is in high demand.
Grrrrrr.
I subbed and the high schoolers didn't emotionally scar me. Woohoo!
I also went to Substitute "Inservice" for Small County today. Oy vey. I basically sat in the room with 8 parents from around the district and watched a movie on Classroom Management and Instruction. Dude! My college education, in thirty-five minutes. Score! I must call home and tell my mother how they wasted all their money sending me to college.
I even found a way not to jump over the table and strangle the HR guy when he used anecdotes to tell us about "stupid things subs do." That took a lot of self-restraint.