Blog Prompt: In honor of Halloween, write about a time you were scared.
Years ago, in a house that we rented, the master bathroom was attached to my master bedroom. There was no door on the bathroom and there was wall to wall indoor outdoor carpet throughout the rooms. One day I was in the shower, which was dark because the shower curtain was dark. For some reason I was thinking about the movie Psycho, when all of a sudden the shower curtain was ripped open! I about passed out! It was my husband who had come home from work early and thought I had heard him come into the room. Of course I didn't and my imagination was running wild anyway. I was so shaken up, I had to sit down in the shower after he had turned the water off. I had shampoo in my hair and I was white as a ghost. Boy, did he feel bad! I can promise you that he has never ever done that again!
Tuesday, October 31, 2006
Scrapbooking Tips
Blog Prompt: Since we're all scrapbookers & photographers, let's share some of the tips we've learned. OR, if you're new to all of this, ask a question so we can leave ideas in your comments.
I've only been doing this since the end of January of this year but I've learned all I know from DSP. Since I've never been very creative, learning the art of design has been the hardest for me but I'm still working on it. The rule of thirds has been the biggest tip that I've learned and really helps make my layouts look better. The other tip that I learned was the control+g in PSE4. That groups the top layer with the bottom which makes the quick clicks work much better. I also like looking at the contests where we have to vote on things because the leader usually picks the top 10 or so and lists why she thinks it should be there. That helps me learn what I need to work on. The last thing I will mention is how I've finally narrowed the challenges down to 3 that I enter. At first I tried to enter a bunch in one week and was overwhelmed to the point of shutting down. Now I focus on the 3 challenges and look at others who use the same kit to get ideas. I love how I was worried about copying styles or ideas but everyone has encouraged me and helped me stretch my wings. I'm still learning and loving every minute of it!
I've only been doing this since the end of January of this year but I've learned all I know from DSP. Since I've never been very creative, learning the art of design has been the hardest for me but I'm still working on it. The rule of thirds has been the biggest tip that I've learned and really helps make my layouts look better. The other tip that I learned was the control+g in PSE4. That groups the top layer with the bottom which makes the quick clicks work much better. I also like looking at the contests where we have to vote on things because the leader usually picks the top 10 or so and lists why she thinks it should be there. That helps me learn what I need to work on. The last thing I will mention is how I've finally narrowed the challenges down to 3 that I enter. At first I tried to enter a bunch in one week and was overwhelmed to the point of shutting down. Now I focus on the 3 challenges and look at others who use the same kit to get ideas. I love how I was worried about copying styles or ideas but everyone has encouraged me and helped me stretch my wings. I'm still learning and loving every minute of it!
Thursday, October 26, 2006
The Best Day of the Week
Blog Prompt: What is your favorite day of the week?
My favorite day of the week is Wednesday for many reasons. By Wednesday I know that I've made it halfway through the work week and only have 2 more days to go. Also, that is the day that most of my older students go out to work as interns so I have very few kids in class. I am able to work one on one with them and give them the attention they need. Since there are less kids, I am also able to get more paperwork done and start preparing for the next week. Overall, my students act better on Wednesdays than any other day. On Mondays they are excited about being back to school after a weekend (sometimes I am the most stable factor in their lives). Many of them also don't sleep right or eat right on weekends so it takes them a couple of days to get back into a routine. On Thursdays and Fridays, the kids are excited and hyper about the weekend and tend to get in more trouble. Wednesday is definitely the best day of the week!
My favorite day of the week is Wednesday for many reasons. By Wednesday I know that I've made it halfway through the work week and only have 2 more days to go. Also, that is the day that most of my older students go out to work as interns so I have very few kids in class. I am able to work one on one with them and give them the attention they need. Since there are less kids, I am also able to get more paperwork done and start preparing for the next week. Overall, my students act better on Wednesdays than any other day. On Mondays they are excited about being back to school after a weekend (sometimes I am the most stable factor in their lives). Many of them also don't sleep right or eat right on weekends so it takes them a couple of days to get back into a routine. On Thursdays and Fridays, the kids are excited and hyper about the weekend and tend to get in more trouble. Wednesday is definitely the best day of the week!
Wednesday, October 25, 2006
TV
Blog Prompt: TV: Scourge of the devil, necessary evil, or love it, want to marry it?
I'm definitely not a TV addict. I like it once in awhile if I'm interested in a particular show or movie but if I miss something, I'm not devastated. I like to watch Grey's Anatomy, CSI, NCIS and Criminal Minds but if I miss an episode, I have TIVO so I can watch it if I want to. Now you ask why do I have TIVO if I'm not an addict? My hubby has to get all the latest technology even if he doesn't know how to use it or ever uses it. So, when we got our new big screen HDTV in our bedroom, he got HD-Tivo (I'm really not sure what it is called) with our satellite dish. We hardly ever look at Tivo but I did watch the last episode of Grey's Anatomy at 1am when I couldn't sleep. My hubby has to turn on the TV for background noise even if he isn't watching it. He would watch it 24 hours a day if I let him but he watches things like the Travel channel, History channel, Discover channel etc. and then drives me crazy saying, "Look at this..." when I'm busy playing on my laptop. As you can tell, we have "quality" time together!
I'm definitely not a TV addict. I like it once in awhile if I'm interested in a particular show or movie but if I miss something, I'm not devastated. I like to watch Grey's Anatomy, CSI, NCIS and Criminal Minds but if I miss an episode, I have TIVO so I can watch it if I want to. Now you ask why do I have TIVO if I'm not an addict? My hubby has to get all the latest technology even if he doesn't know how to use it or ever uses it. So, when we got our new big screen HDTV in our bedroom, he got HD-Tivo (I'm really not sure what it is called) with our satellite dish. We hardly ever look at Tivo but I did watch the last episode of Grey's Anatomy at 1am when I couldn't sleep. My hubby has to turn on the TV for background noise even if he isn't watching it. He would watch it 24 hours a day if I let him but he watches things like the Travel channel, History channel, Discover channel etc. and then drives me crazy saying, "Look at this..." when I'm busy playing on my laptop. As you can tell, we have "quality" time together!
Tuesday, October 24, 2006
Inherited Traits
Blog Prompt: What do you see in yourself that has come from your ancestors? If you have children, what have you handed down?
When I was growing up, I swore I was not going to be like my mother but unfortunately, I have been sounding more and more like her. When my girls were growing up I heard myself say phrases that I promised would never cross my lips. But there I was saying them myself. No matter how I tried, they were there and nothing I could do stopped them. Things like: Do you think money grows on trees? I don't care if you like me but you will respect me. How many times do I have to tell you? If all the kids jumped off the Brooklyn Bridge, would you do it too? and on and on. My grandparents were very strict with my parents and they were with me also. My sense of values and integrity has been handed down from generation to generation. Even though I didn't want to become just like my mother, I'm proud of the way that we have the commonality of shared values. It is times like this that I'm sorry I never told her this before she died. Maybe she is in heaven reading this and smiling.
When I was growing up, I swore I was not going to be like my mother but unfortunately, I have been sounding more and more like her. When my girls were growing up I heard myself say phrases that I promised would never cross my lips. But there I was saying them myself. No matter how I tried, they were there and nothing I could do stopped them. Things like: Do you think money grows on trees? I don't care if you like me but you will respect me. How many times do I have to tell you? If all the kids jumped off the Brooklyn Bridge, would you do it too? and on and on. My grandparents were very strict with my parents and they were with me also. My sense of values and integrity has been handed down from generation to generation. Even though I didn't want to become just like my mother, I'm proud of the way that we have the commonality of shared values. It is times like this that I'm sorry I never told her this before she died. Maybe she is in heaven reading this and smiling.
My Favorite Art
Blog Prompt: What type of art do you like best? Do you have a favorite artist?
I think the most famous artist that I like is Monet. I like the colors and the softness in his works.
Now having said that, I also like art with a lot of detail and fine lines. Maybe it is because I have such an analytical mind that I like things well defined. When I was at the National Portrait Gallery in Washington DC a month ago, I liked the photos best and I liked the art work with lots of details. Even the sculptures with details appealed to me. I am not fond of modern art because I usually don't understand it and it leaves me confused. I have noticed over the years that my preferences haven't changed. I thought maybe as I get older, I would change the way I looked at art but so far this phase has lasted a long time.
I think the most famous artist that I like is Monet. I like the colors and the softness in his works.
Now having said that, I also like art with a lot of detail and fine lines. Maybe it is because I have such an analytical mind that I like things well defined. When I was at the National Portrait Gallery in Washington DC a month ago, I liked the photos best and I liked the art work with lots of details. Even the sculptures with details appealed to me. I am not fond of modern art because I usually don't understand it and it leaves me confused. I have noticed over the years that my preferences haven't changed. I thought maybe as I get older, I would change the way I looked at art but so far this phase has lasted a long time.
Friday, October 20, 2006
5 Weekend Accomplishments
Blog Prompt: Tell us five things you plan to accomplish this weekend!
This weekend is my 25th college weekend so I have so much to do!
This weekend is my 25th college weekend so I have so much to do!
- Tonight is a reception at someone's house. 5 years ago it was so much fun to meet people I hadn't seen in so long so I'm really looking forward to tonight.
- Tomorrow morning is the Alumni breakfast where they also give out awards. We usually sit with a friend of mine, Arthur, who is an Alumni and he is about 89 years old. His son actually graduated with me but I used to hike with Arthur's wife before she passed away.
- Tomorrow at noon is the Alumni luncheon. We all sit at tables noted by the years so we can see people we graduated with. I hope it isn't too hot, no rain, and no bees! We usually have a problem with the bees if it is too hot since we eat out on the lawn of the alumni house.
- Tomorrow at 2pm is the big Homecoming football game! I hope we win! We have wonderful season tickets right on the 50 yard line (I'm told that is a prime spot but what do I know!)
- Then the big finale is the dinner at 7pm at very fancy place. We are expecting 65 people and since I'm on the reunion committee, I've very relieved to have a good turnout.
Since it said to list 5, I won't mention that by Sunday I will be relaxing, recuperating, and recovering!
Thursday, October 19, 2006
My Closest Female Friend
Blog Prompt: How did you meet your closest female friend?
This is hard for me because I don't really have a "closest" female friend that I spend a lot of free time with. My husband is my closest friend and every free moment is spent with him. So, to answer this prompt, I thought about my closest female friend at work.
Lisa started teaching at my school in the middle of the year when a friend of mine left for health reasons. As head of the department, I was expected to greet her and get her settled in her class. We've been friends for about 3 years and I consider myself lucky. She is an excellent teacher and supportive colleague. Whenever I need to whine, complain, let off steam, vent my frustrations, she always makes time for me even though she is extremely busy. She spends a lot of time preparing for her students in addition to being a single mother to 2 small daughters. No matter what favor I need, she is always willing to do whatever I ask her. But she never takes advantage of our friendship and is extremely professional. With her previous experiences, I value her opinion when I have to deal with certain situations. She never comes across as a know-it-all and makes me feel like my knowledge is important to her too. She is probably the only person at work that I truly feel I can count on and trust. I hope she gets to read this so she will know how much her friendship means to me!
This is hard for me because I don't really have a "closest" female friend that I spend a lot of free time with. My husband is my closest friend and every free moment is spent with him. So, to answer this prompt, I thought about my closest female friend at work.
Lisa started teaching at my school in the middle of the year when a friend of mine left for health reasons. As head of the department, I was expected to greet her and get her settled in her class. We've been friends for about 3 years and I consider myself lucky. She is an excellent teacher and supportive colleague. Whenever I need to whine, complain, let off steam, vent my frustrations, she always makes time for me even though she is extremely busy. She spends a lot of time preparing for her students in addition to being a single mother to 2 small daughters. No matter what favor I need, she is always willing to do whatever I ask her. But she never takes advantage of our friendship and is extremely professional. With her previous experiences, I value her opinion when I have to deal with certain situations. She never comes across as a know-it-all and makes me feel like my knowledge is important to her too. She is probably the only person at work that I truly feel I can count on and trust. I hope she gets to read this so she will know how much her friendship means to me!
Wednesday, October 18, 2006
My Favorite Era
Blog Prompt: If you could live in any era of history, what would it be, and why?
I think I would have liked to live in the Victorian Era. I love all the dresses the ladies wore. I also liked the gentility of the times. I could picture lovely dances and well mannered society. I also like the furniture that was around during that time. Of course I can't imagine living without all the modern conveniences we have today (like in door plumbing, computers, cars) but if I had to choose, this would be it.
I think I would have liked to live in the Victorian Era. I love all the dresses the ladies wore. I also liked the gentility of the times. I could picture lovely dances and well mannered society. I also like the furniture that was around during that time. Of course I can't imagine living without all the modern conveniences we have today (like in door plumbing, computers, cars) but if I had to choose, this would be it.
Tuesday, October 17, 2006
Athletic Dreams
Blog Prompt: If you were back in school and could join any extracurricular activity (no try-outs or cool kids ), which club, sport, or other activity would you choose?
When I was in school, I was always the nerd. I always had my head in a book or was making straight As but boy, did I want to be an athlete. They always seemed to be the popular kids. Instead I was a "mathlete" which means I was on the math team (at the time we were considered big nerds!) Not to mention that both of my older sisters were volleyball players and cheerleaders and were very popular. No, I did not have an athletic bone in my body. In fact I think no respectable athletic bone came within 500 feet of my body! I was the kid everyone hated to have on their team in gym and I was always the last one picked.
Now that I've said that, if I could join any sport, I would have loved to be on the softball team. To make up for it, for the past 22 years I have supported the softball team at my schools that I teach at. Usually they are the least supported team in the whole school. Girls sports usually are not very well supported. My hubby and I are the surrogate parents for the whole team and we even try to go to away games. In fact, when many of the girls go on to play softball for college, we are invited to many of the games. We even filled in for parents day when one girl's mom couldn't make it (her dad had died and her mom was agoraphobic). Every year we are invited to the sports banquet and the team (and parents) give us gifts for supporting them (but we don't do it for the gifts). The girls usually give us a team picture which I display in my classroom each year. so, since I never could be on the team, this is the next best thing!
When I was in school, I was always the nerd. I always had my head in a book or was making straight As but boy, did I want to be an athlete. They always seemed to be the popular kids. Instead I was a "mathlete" which means I was on the math team (at the time we were considered big nerds!) Not to mention that both of my older sisters were volleyball players and cheerleaders and were very popular. No, I did not have an athletic bone in my body. In fact I think no respectable athletic bone came within 500 feet of my body! I was the kid everyone hated to have on their team in gym and I was always the last one picked.
Now that I've said that, if I could join any sport, I would have loved to be on the softball team. To make up for it, for the past 22 years I have supported the softball team at my schools that I teach at. Usually they are the least supported team in the whole school. Girls sports usually are not very well supported. My hubby and I are the surrogate parents for the whole team and we even try to go to away games. In fact, when many of the girls go on to play softball for college, we are invited to many of the games. We even filled in for parents day when one girl's mom couldn't make it (her dad had died and her mom was agoraphobic). Every year we are invited to the sports banquet and the team (and parents) give us gifts for supporting them (but we don't do it for the gifts). The girls usually give us a team picture which I display in my classroom each year. so, since I never could be on the team, this is the next best thing!
Monday, October 16, 2006
A New Holiday
Blog Prompt: Create a new holiday (e.g. Talk Like a Pirate Day). Include the origins and any special rituals of your day.
If I could create a holiday, I would announce "Take a Hike Day". Everyone would be excused from work or school if they had proof that they took a hike at a state park or national park or some organized trail. Rangers would stamp a card at the trail head and another ranger would stamp it whereever you came out.
Yesterday, my hubby and I hiked around Max Patch which is a mountain in western NC. The Appalachian Trail crosses right over it. Max Patch is a grassy bald and when you stand on top, you can see 360 degrees around you. We climbed up there and the views of changing leaves were magnificent. The weather was very crisp and cool (about 40F when we started but warmed up to near 60F when we were done). After hiking awhile, we started talking about how many people do not go out and enjoy nature. There is so much to see and do and enjoy outdoors that doesn't even cost a lot of money. We don't take advantage enough of what God has given us.
Then when we retire or take time to enjoy things like this, we are either too old or not in good enough health to actually do it. What a shame that so many people waste the opportunities that are out there. So, that is why I would have "Take a Hike Day".
If I could create a holiday, I would announce "Take a Hike Day". Everyone would be excused from work or school if they had proof that they took a hike at a state park or national park or some organized trail. Rangers would stamp a card at the trail head and another ranger would stamp it whereever you came out.
Yesterday, my hubby and I hiked around Max Patch which is a mountain in western NC. The Appalachian Trail crosses right over it. Max Patch is a grassy bald and when you stand on top, you can see 360 degrees around you. We climbed up there and the views of changing leaves were magnificent. The weather was very crisp and cool (about 40F when we started but warmed up to near 60F when we were done). After hiking awhile, we started talking about how many people do not go out and enjoy nature. There is so much to see and do and enjoy outdoors that doesn't even cost a lot of money. We don't take advantage enough of what God has given us.
Then when we retire or take time to enjoy things like this, we are either too old or not in good enough health to actually do it. What a shame that so many people waste the opportunities that are out there. So, that is why I would have "Take a Hike Day".
Saturday, October 14, 2006
My Pickup Truck
Blog Prompt: What sort of car do you drive? For what reason do you use it the most? (eg. work/shopping/etc) Do you like driving? Why/why not? What sort of driver are you? What condition is the car in? Any accident/anecdotes from your driving history? Do you have a picture of your car to share? (Does it need cleaning right now.....? LOL) And anything else you can think of on this topic!!! GREEN LIGHT - GO! and write!
Before I tell you about my vehicle, let me explain that I moved to SC from NY. Almost everyone in the south drives pickup trucks. Being a gardener, I just had to have a pickup truck. But my husband is a judge and I'm a teacher, so he thought I should have something with more prestige to drive but I am not going to be a snob or something that I'm not. I don't believe in doing or having things in order to pretend that I'm better or richer than others. But he felt since we lived in a little town, people look up to us and expect us to live a certain way. I don't care. Accept me for the way I am or leave me alone! I wanted a pickup truck to haul mulch, gardening tools, large items, etc. in. I only drive it to and from work which is about 20 miles a day. On the weekends we drive my hubby's Chevy Tahoe so I didn't want anything fancy. My pickup is just a small plain red Ford Ranger (not even the extended cab). I don't have cruise control or electric windows or electric locks. It's even a straight drive and not automatic which helps with gas mileage (so I'm told). It is the one thing in my life that is not cluttered because it is so small I don't let things stay in the cab. My hubby says I'm the only Chinese redneck in our little town!
As for driving, I'm a much better driver than my husband says I am but I don't like to drive. I leave most of the driving for him except if we go out and he has a drink. If he has one drink, he won't drive at all so I'm the designated driver (I don't have a drink if he has one). He says I drive like a New Yorker and I say he drives like an old lady! But I don't complain too much or he will ask me to drive, while he holds onto the door with white knuckles and criticizes everything I do! I just read a book while he drives.
Before I tell you about my vehicle, let me explain that I moved to SC from NY. Almost everyone in the south drives pickup trucks. Being a gardener, I just had to have a pickup truck. But my husband is a judge and I'm a teacher, so he thought I should have something with more prestige to drive but I am not going to be a snob or something that I'm not. I don't believe in doing or having things in order to pretend that I'm better or richer than others. But he felt since we lived in a little town, people look up to us and expect us to live a certain way. I don't care. Accept me for the way I am or leave me alone! I wanted a pickup truck to haul mulch, gardening tools, large items, etc. in. I only drive it to and from work which is about 20 miles a day. On the weekends we drive my hubby's Chevy Tahoe so I didn't want anything fancy. My pickup is just a small plain red Ford Ranger (not even the extended cab). I don't have cruise control or electric windows or electric locks. It's even a straight drive and not automatic which helps with gas mileage (so I'm told). It is the one thing in my life that is not cluttered because it is so small I don't let things stay in the cab. My hubby says I'm the only Chinese redneck in our little town!
As for driving, I'm a much better driver than my husband says I am but I don't like to drive. I leave most of the driving for him except if we go out and he has a drink. If he has one drink, he won't drive at all so I'm the designated driver (I don't have a drink if he has one). He says I drive like a New Yorker and I say he drives like an old lady! But I don't complain too much or he will ask me to drive, while he holds onto the door with white knuckles and criticizes everything I do! I just read a book while he drives.
Friday, October 13, 2006
Choose differently?
Blog Prompt: Would you choose differently if you could choose your occupation again? Why? How?
There is absolutely no way I would choose a different career. Ever since I was little, I knew I wanted to be a teacher. I have no regrets with my choice. In fact, I love my job and because I love it, sometimes it doesn't even feel like a job.
There is absolutely no way I would choose a different career. Ever since I was little, I knew I wanted to be a teacher. I have no regrets with my choice. In fact, I love my job and because I love it, sometimes it doesn't even feel like a job.
Thursday, October 12, 2006
Clutter
Clutter: How big a role does clutter play in your life? Do you worry about it at all? Why or why not?
All I can say is clutter is my middle name but should be my first name! Everything around me is cluttered. BUT I have to say it is organized clutter. On my guest bed is 2 huge piles of paid bills that need to be filed. My book shelves are full of piles of books that need to be neatly placed. I have a desk full of papers to be organized or filled out but I know which papers they are and exactly where on my desk to find them. I also have piles of "stuff" to sort through in order to throw away what I don't need to keep. Of course there are 4 piles at home, 20 boxes in the attic, 7 junk drawers in my house, and 12 piles at work. BUT at least I know where the piles are. I could win any contest for being the Clutter Queen! I think about the clutter in the back of my mind but I can't say it worries me. I have other things to worry about and this is not one of them.
All I can say is clutter is my middle name but should be my first name! Everything around me is cluttered. BUT I have to say it is organized clutter. On my guest bed is 2 huge piles of paid bills that need to be filed. My book shelves are full of piles of books that need to be neatly placed. I have a desk full of papers to be organized or filled out but I know which papers they are and exactly where on my desk to find them. I also have piles of "stuff" to sort through in order to throw away what I don't need to keep. Of course there are 4 piles at home, 20 boxes in the attic, 7 junk drawers in my house, and 12 piles at work. BUT at least I know where the piles are. I could win any contest for being the Clutter Queen! I think about the clutter in the back of my mind but I can't say it worries me. I have other things to worry about and this is not one of them.
Clutter
Clutter: How big a role does clutter play in your life? Do you worry about it at all? Why or why not?
All I can say is clutter is my middle name but should be my first name! Everything around me is cluttered. BUT I have to say it is organized clutter. On my guest bed is 2 huge piles of paid bills that need to be filed. My book shelves are full of piles of books that need to be neatly placed. I have a desk full of papers to be organized or filled out but I know which papers they are and exactly where on my desk to find them. I also have piles of "stuff" to sort through in order to throw away what I don't need to keep. Of course there are 4 piles at home, 20 boxes in the attic, 7 junk drawers in my house, and 12 piles at work. BUT at least I know where the piles are. I could win any contest for being the Clutter Queen! I think about the clutter in the back of my mind but I can't say it worries me. I have other things to worry about and this is not one of them.
All I can say is clutter is my middle name but should be my first name! Everything around me is cluttered. BUT I have to say it is organized clutter. On my guest bed is 2 huge piles of paid bills that need to be filed. My book shelves are full of piles of books that need to be neatly placed. I have a desk full of papers to be organized or filled out but I know which papers they are and exactly where on my desk to find them. I also have piles of "stuff" to sort through in order to throw away what I don't need to keep. Of course there are 4 piles at home, 20 boxes in the attic, 7 junk drawers in my house, and 12 piles at work. BUT at least I know where the piles are. I could win any contest for being the Clutter Queen! I think about the clutter in the back of my mind but I can't say it worries me. I have other things to worry about and this is not one of them.
Wednesday, October 11, 2006
Procrastination
Blog Prompt: If you procrastinate, what is your most popular excuse and why?
My favorite excuse (and believe me, I have many!) is "I have plenty of time and besides, I work better under pressure!" I somehow always do what needs to be done but the stress and anxiety at the last minute has be promising to myself that next time I won't procrastinate. In fact, I make this promise a lot to myself.
I have worked really hard about making out lists and completing all of the stuff on my list each day. It kind of gives me a thrill to get everything marked off. In the morning I sometimes email my school email with things to add to my list. When I get to work, I make out the master list. I also bring it home with me in case there are things I need to complete at home. But sometimes, out of sight- out of mind once I get home. Or this is where I use THE EXCUSE.
I also have a hard time finding the fine line between procrastination and obsessive compulsive. For example, I have a big parent meeting tomorrow on a new student at 11am (I have no authority to cancel, postpone, or change this meeting). I didn't find out about this meeting until yesterday morning. I called or emailed all the participants to set up the meeting, only to find out 2 hours later that the time is changed. Then I had about 25 pages of paperwork to do but I needed something faxed to me before I could begin. I didn't get the fax until today. I really didn't mind procrastinating yesterday because I didn't want to do it but then I worried about the time factor and but today I wanted to call the person and ask why I didn't have the fax yet. I also understood that I couldn't expect this person to drop everything for me either. Now was that procrastinating and then being obsessive compulsive?? I really need to retire so I can procrastinate without needing any excuses!
My favorite excuse (and believe me, I have many!) is "I have plenty of time and besides, I work better under pressure!" I somehow always do what needs to be done but the stress and anxiety at the last minute has be promising to myself that next time I won't procrastinate. In fact, I make this promise a lot to myself.
I have worked really hard about making out lists and completing all of the stuff on my list each day. It kind of gives me a thrill to get everything marked off. In the morning I sometimes email my school email with things to add to my list. When I get to work, I make out the master list. I also bring it home with me in case there are things I need to complete at home. But sometimes, out of sight- out of mind once I get home. Or this is where I use THE EXCUSE.
I also have a hard time finding the fine line between procrastination and obsessive compulsive. For example, I have a big parent meeting tomorrow on a new student at 11am (I have no authority to cancel, postpone, or change this meeting). I didn't find out about this meeting until yesterday morning. I called or emailed all the participants to set up the meeting, only to find out 2 hours later that the time is changed. Then I had about 25 pages of paperwork to do but I needed something faxed to me before I could begin. I didn't get the fax until today. I really didn't mind procrastinating yesterday because I didn't want to do it but then I worried about the time factor and but today I wanted to call the person and ask why I didn't have the fax yet. I also understood that I couldn't expect this person to drop everything for me either. Now was that procrastinating and then being obsessive compulsive?? I really need to retire so I can procrastinate without needing any excuses!
Tuesday, October 10, 2006
TV Program
Blog Prompt: Of all the TV programs, which one have you watched the most? Why?Is it connected in some way to your life and/or perspective?
The TV programs that I watch are purely for entertainment mostly. By the end of the day, my brain is tired and I don't want to think too much. I try to watch Grey's Anatomy (but I still haven't learned what day or time it is on so sometimes it is hit and miss for me). I love reading harlequin romances so I think this reminds me of one. The only other thing I watch is Little House on the Prairie which is on as soon as I get home from school (whenever I actually leave school on time) so I watch it while dinner is cooking. I'm just not a big TV watcher and would rather play on my computer for hours and hours and hours.
The TV programs that I watch are purely for entertainment mostly. By the end of the day, my brain is tired and I don't want to think too much. I try to watch Grey's Anatomy (but I still haven't learned what day or time it is on so sometimes it is hit and miss for me). I love reading harlequin romances so I think this reminds me of one. The only other thing I watch is Little House on the Prairie which is on as soon as I get home from school (whenever I actually leave school on time) so I watch it while dinner is cooking. I'm just not a big TV watcher and would rather play on my computer for hours and hours and hours.
Monday, October 09, 2006
New Recipe
Blog Prompt: It's been a while since we've talked about food. Let's share recipes today or talk about seasonal foods you look forward to at this time of year.
This is the perfect prompt for me today. My sister shared with me a recipe that her kids have loved for years and I decided to try it. My hubby and I both enjoyed it so I will definitely try it again.
I prepared my meat loaf (ground beef, minced garlic, oregano, basil, egg, salt, pepper) and put it in a covered microwaveable dish. The meat loaf was molded in donut shape. I cooked it in the microwave for 10 min. at medium level. Then I covered it with cream of mushroom soup and cooked it for another 10 min. at medium level.
I served it with mashed potatoes (and we used the meat loaf soup as gravy) and 3 bean salad (drain a can of green beans, drain a can of Le Seur peas, drain a can of mushrooms, add sugar or equal and vinegar. Mix well). It was a wonderful dinner!
This is the perfect prompt for me today. My sister shared with me a recipe that her kids have loved for years and I decided to try it. My hubby and I both enjoyed it so I will definitely try it again.
I prepared my meat loaf (ground beef, minced garlic, oregano, basil, egg, salt, pepper) and put it in a covered microwaveable dish. The meat loaf was molded in donut shape. I cooked it in the microwave for 10 min. at medium level. Then I covered it with cream of mushroom soup and cooked it for another 10 min. at medium level.
I served it with mashed potatoes (and we used the meat loaf soup as gravy) and 3 bean salad (drain a can of green beans, drain a can of Le Seur peas, drain a can of mushrooms, add sugar or equal and vinegar. Mix well). It was a wonderful dinner!
Sunday, October 08, 2006
My Sister
Blog Prompt: describe/talk about your relationship with a sibling. Did you fight as children? Now? What similarities or differences do you have....? What do you like about them.. or anything else you want to write about them. Or, if you don't have any siblings, would you want one and why?
Let me start off by telling you that I'm the youngest of 3 girls. My sisters were 10 and 12 years older than me so I was totally spoiled and still am (even at 47 years old). My oldest sister passed away (she had lupus for 6 years) when I was 14 so for most of my life it has just been me and my middle sister. When I went away to college and got married, I drifted away from my sister even though we always knew we loved each other, we just drifted apart. With the increased use of computers and cell phones, I feel over the past few years that my sister and I have gotten so much closer. We "talk" on AOL Instant Messenger a lot and since all of our calls are free on Verizon (we're on the "In" network) we have talked a lot more. The hardest thing for me is that sometimes I think she still sees me as her "little" sister and treats me like I don't know anything. I want to yell, "Hey I'm a grown up now. I can take care of myself and make my own decisions without you giving me your opinion!" Of course as an adult, I have to step back and realize that if one of my friends made the same comment I wouldn't resent it at all and then I feel guilty. I worry about my sister a lot since she has lupus (has had it for many years) and I live 800 miles away from her but I just trust in God that he will take care of her and her family.
Let me start off by telling you that I'm the youngest of 3 girls. My sisters were 10 and 12 years older than me so I was totally spoiled and still am (even at 47 years old). My oldest sister passed away (she had lupus for 6 years) when I was 14 so for most of my life it has just been me and my middle sister. When I went away to college and got married, I drifted away from my sister even though we always knew we loved each other, we just drifted apart. With the increased use of computers and cell phones, I feel over the past few years that my sister and I have gotten so much closer. We "talk" on AOL Instant Messenger a lot and since all of our calls are free on Verizon (we're on the "In" network) we have talked a lot more. The hardest thing for me is that sometimes I think she still sees me as her "little" sister and treats me like I don't know anything. I want to yell, "Hey I'm a grown up now. I can take care of myself and make my own decisions without you giving me your opinion!" Of course as an adult, I have to step back and realize that if one of my friends made the same comment I wouldn't resent it at all and then I feel guilty. I worry about my sister a lot since she has lupus (has had it for many years) and I live 800 miles away from her but I just trust in God that he will take care of her and her family.
Friday, October 06, 2006
Favorite Quote
Blog Prompt: Share with us a favorite quote, or one that fits your life right now.
"If God is for us, who can be against us?" (Romans 8:31)
In many situations I lack a lot of self confidence so I quote this to myself a lot as my pep talk. I have to deal with a lot of conflict as a teacher and head of the department so I spend a lot of time worrying if I'm making the right decisions and sometimes people get mad at me. I am also on a Board of Directors for an organization and sometimes I don't agree with the majority and feel a need to speak up about an issue. This scares me to death but I force myself to do it! At that time, I really quote this over and over! Inside I'm shyer and less self confident than I let other people see so I really need this a lot in my life.
(I am currently in Arlington, VA and it is pouring down rain!!!! Hopefully we are going to try to get to see something at the Ford Theater this afternoon and go to the new National Portrait Gallery. Have a nice weekend y'all!)
"If God is for us, who can be against us?" (Romans 8:31)
In many situations I lack a lot of self confidence so I quote this to myself a lot as my pep talk. I have to deal with a lot of conflict as a teacher and head of the department so I spend a lot of time worrying if I'm making the right decisions and sometimes people get mad at me. I am also on a Board of Directors for an organization and sometimes I don't agree with the majority and feel a need to speak up about an issue. This scares me to death but I force myself to do it! At that time, I really quote this over and over! Inside I'm shyer and less self confident than I let other people see so I really need this a lot in my life.
(I am currently in Arlington, VA and it is pouring down rain!!!! Hopefully we are going to try to get to see something at the Ford Theater this afternoon and go to the new National Portrait Gallery. Have a nice weekend y'all!)
Wednesday, October 04, 2006
5 minute writing
Blog Prompt: Let go and write whatever!!! But only for five minutes. After that put your pen, errrr, your fingers down and don't go back to fix anything!
I am here at work and the kids are working quietly so I decided to work on my blog. Even though I'm at work, my brain is preparing for my trip to Washington DC this weekend. I hope the weather is nice but I don't think it will be. We leave on Thurs. night and I come back home on Sunday. I will be in meetings all weekend but it is fun to get away. I'm on the national Board of Directors for Council for Exceptional Children so this is our board meeting. There are 20 of us from all around the US who meet in DC twice a year and then at the national convention (in Louisville, KY this coming April). My husband is going with me because we don't sleep apart. He will be wandering around the Smithsonian museums while I'm hard at work. Then I will hear all about his adventures in the evenings and wish I could be with him. Well, my 5 minutes is up in about 15 seconds so I will end there and dream some more about this weekend!
I am here at work and the kids are working quietly so I decided to work on my blog. Even though I'm at work, my brain is preparing for my trip to Washington DC this weekend. I hope the weather is nice but I don't think it will be. We leave on Thurs. night and I come back home on Sunday. I will be in meetings all weekend but it is fun to get away. I'm on the national Board of Directors for Council for Exceptional Children so this is our board meeting. There are 20 of us from all around the US who meet in DC twice a year and then at the national convention (in Louisville, KY this coming April). My husband is going with me because we don't sleep apart. He will be wandering around the Smithsonian museums while I'm hard at work. Then I will hear all about his adventures in the evenings and wish I could be with him. Well, my 5 minutes is up in about 15 seconds so I will end there and dream some more about this weekend!
Tuesday, October 03, 2006
My Relationship
Blog Prompt: Celebrate your relationship with someone in your life. It doesn't have to be a spouse, it could be kids, parents, or even the mail carrier that waves to you everyday!
What can I say that I haven't said about my hubby yet. I love him and think I couldn't love him any more than I do but each day I find out that I love him a little more than I did the day before. He is my best friend and not only do I love him, but I trust him totally. I have no doubt that he would give his life for me if necessary and I would do the same for him. We have been married 24 years but it doesn't seem like that long. We enjoy being together and sharing wonderful memories together. Sometimes it scares me to think that someday we may have to live life without each other but I don't dwell on it. We have only slept apart on 2 separate occasions in 24 years and spend most of our free time together. I look forward to all the many days we have together.
What can I say that I haven't said about my hubby yet. I love him and think I couldn't love him any more than I do but each day I find out that I love him a little more than I did the day before. He is my best friend and not only do I love him, but I trust him totally. I have no doubt that he would give his life for me if necessary and I would do the same for him. We have been married 24 years but it doesn't seem like that long. We enjoy being together and sharing wonderful memories together. Sometimes it scares me to think that someday we may have to live life without each other but I don't dwell on it. We have only slept apart on 2 separate occasions in 24 years and spend most of our free time together. I look forward to all the many days we have together.
Monday, October 02, 2006
Autumn Feelings
Blog Prompt: Use the autumn words given to write about.
Next to spring, autumn is my favorite season. After a long hot summer, I really enjoy the cool crispness in the air. I love the beautiful colors of the changing leaves. I am so tired of wearing my spring and summer clothes that I look forward to storing them and pulling out my autumn and winter clothes. I enjoy the smell of burning firewood from people's fireplaces. I love the cool weather because it means my hubby is not too hot to cuddle with me. He is like my own little private heater that doesn't have to be plugged in! Even though he complains that my feet are like ice cubes, he cuddles with me in the middle of the night when he notices that I am cold. Since Christmas is my favorite holiday, autumn always fills me with anticipation that Christmas is coming soon. Hiking during autumn is magical too because nature is filled with exciting changes. The forest is filled with color and it is the perfect weather to hike in because you aren't too hot or too cold. Just writing about this makes me wish I was out hiking instead of working (oops! you caught me, I'm really not working at this very moment even though I should be!).
Next to spring, autumn is my favorite season. After a long hot summer, I really enjoy the cool crispness in the air. I love the beautiful colors of the changing leaves. I am so tired of wearing my spring and summer clothes that I look forward to storing them and pulling out my autumn and winter clothes. I enjoy the smell of burning firewood from people's fireplaces. I love the cool weather because it means my hubby is not too hot to cuddle with me. He is like my own little private heater that doesn't have to be plugged in! Even though he complains that my feet are like ice cubes, he cuddles with me in the middle of the night when he notices that I am cold. Since Christmas is my favorite holiday, autumn always fills me with anticipation that Christmas is coming soon. Hiking during autumn is magical too because nature is filled with exciting changes. The forest is filled with color and it is the perfect weather to hike in because you aren't too hot or too cold. Just writing about this makes me wish I was out hiking instead of working (oops! you caught me, I'm really not working at this very moment even though I should be!).
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