4 years ago
Saturday, June 30, 2007
My mother is a technopeasant!
God bless my mom! She sent me an electronic card yesterday, since my birthday is tomorrow. It was the first time I ever got one from her. When I opened it, it was a slideshow of all 50 state flowers that formed an outline of an eagle at the end. Her message was "Hope you HAD (emphasis mine) a great birthday and 4th of July." Today is June 30. God love her!
Saturday, June 23, 2007
Sing Along for Stress Relief
We just finished Session A, Day 2. If you're in the program, you'll know what that means. Now that things have settled in, it was time to blow off some steam. We have staff/conductor dinner parties twice a week; the staff gets invited to one of the time, but I go help with the clean-up for all of them. The menu is the same every time - taco salad and ice cream pie in a chocolate crust. The first staff dinner party was tonight, but no taco salad for me tonight. My dinner night is Monday.
After clean-up, it was off to karaoke night at the Wild Goose. We knew it was going to be special when The Mayor called to tell them we were coming. I believe his exact words were "Get the beer on ice and the pig in the ground cuz we're coming." Their response was "We remember you from last year. Didn't you all get drunk and sing Johnny Cash all night?"
Some people have GREAT memories. Some have great taste.
After clean-up, it was off to karaoke night at the Wild Goose. We knew it was going to be special when The Mayor called to tell them we were coming. I believe his exact words were "Get the beer on ice and the pig in the ground cuz we're coming." Their response was "We remember you from last year. Didn't you all get drunk and sing Johnny Cash all night?"
Some people have GREAT memories. Some have great taste.
Wednesday, June 20, 2007
Blood is NOT funny!
Unless you are listening to this little guy. Sorry - I was REALLY bored, and this is just hysterical!
EXHAUSTED!
Today is Day T-1 (Target minus 1) for ABC, the summer sleep-away camp for band directors. We the staff have been busting tail for the past 3 days getting everything set up and ready. Today is the entrance exam for the newbies, although the new "all computer" version had a glitch and I got the call: "BING! We need all the pencils you can find. STAT!" Happy to do it, but I had to sharpen them first.
I'm fading in and out of consciousness, though. All the newbies had to check in yesterday and were SUPPOSED to be in the dorms by 9 PM. I got the dubious honor of being on call for the those who were late due to bad travel mojo, something of which I am very familiar. There were only two, which wouldn't be so bad, but the first was at 1 AM and the second was at 2:30 AM. I barely slept in between and then had to open registration again at 7:30 AM today.
Can't wait to sleep today!
I'm fading in and out of consciousness, though. All the newbies had to check in yesterday and were SUPPOSED to be in the dorms by 9 PM. I got the dubious honor of being on call for the those who were late due to bad travel mojo, something of which I am very familiar. There were only two, which wouldn't be so bad, but the first was at 1 AM and the second was at 2:30 AM. I barely slept in between and then had to open registration again at 7:30 AM today.
Can't wait to sleep today!
It's an epidemic!
Tia has joined the blogging world. She said she was inspired, and even suggested that PERHAPS "The Bing Blog" played a minor role. In any case, I wish her the best, and HIGHLY suggest you visit Life With Tia often, and post your words of encouragement to her. If you don't know her, you'll like her. After all, she IS a friend of mine. Unless you hate me, in which case why are you reading "The Bing Blog" in the first place? SHEESH! Get a life!
Monday, June 18, 2007
Monster vs. 3 year old
Since I was already on YouTube, I saw this and since it made me laugh, I thought I should share.
And watch your mouth around the children!
And watch your mouth around the children!
Marimba Ponies
Friday, June 15, 2007
In case you were thinking...
Thursday, June 14, 2007
Does Madonna need a nanny?
Last night, Donald Miller talked about how good stories are written and how we're to live our lives like a good story. He talked about his 25 year old friend who is currently working to build 1000 wells in Africa. Martha asked on the way out if it made me want to sell everything I own and more to some 3rd World country. I don't need Donald Miller to tell me what a selfish loser I am; I am FULLY capable of feeling that on my own, thank you very much!
Martha said she had a dream last night about being Madonna's nanny. When she woke up, she realized that it pertained to last night's message and perhaps God was calling her out for a bigger purpose. It definitely would be a challenge, as she really doesn't care much for Madonna.
As for me, God might be calling, but it's going straight to voicemail.
Martha said she had a dream last night about being Madonna's nanny. When she woke up, she realized that it pertained to last night's message and perhaps God was calling her out for a bigger purpose. It definitely would be a challenge, as she really doesn't care much for Madonna.
As for me, God might be calling, but it's going straight to voicemail.
Wednesday, June 13, 2007
I kept the receipt!
After reading this, I don't feel so guilty that I want to return the "gift." I've been wearing it like a trooper, but t isn't really my style.
Hurricane Preparedness
This e-mail was sent to me today...I wish I could claim it as original material!
--------------------------------------------------
To: Ex-Floridians, present Floridians, those who visit Florida, future Floridians or those who know a Floridian.
We're about to enter the peak of the hurricane season. Any day now, you're going to turn on the TV and see a weather person pointing to some radar blob out in the Atlantic or Gulf of Mexico and making two basic meteorological points:
(1) There is no need to panic.
(2) We could all be killed.
Yes, hurricane season is an exciting time to be in Florida. If you're new to the area, you're probably wondering what you need to do to prepare for the possibility that we'll get hit by "the big one.''
Based on our experiences, we recommend that you follow this simple three-step hurricane preparedness plan:
STEP 1. Buy enough food and bottled water to last your family for at least three days.
STEP 2. Put these supplies into your car.
STEP 3. Drive to Iowa and remain there until Thanksgiving.
Unfortunately, statistics show that most people will not follow this sensible plan. Most people will foolishly stay here in Florida.
We'll start with one of the most important hurricane preparedness items:
HOMEOWNERS' INSURANCE: If you own a home, you must have hurricane insurance. Fortunately, this insurance is cheap and easy to get, as long as your home meets two basic requirements:
(1) It is reasonably well-built, and
(2) It is located in Iowa.
Unfortunately, if your home is located in Florida, or any other area that might actually be hit by a hurricane, most insurance companies would prefer not to sell you hurricane insurance, because then they might be required to pay YOU money, and that is certainly not why they got into the insurance business in the first place.
So you'll have to scrounge around for an insurance company, which will charge you an annual premium roughly equal to the replacement value of your house. At any moment, this company can drop you like used dental floss.
Since Hurricane Andrew, I have had an estimated 27 different home-insurance companies. This week, I'm covered by the Bob and Big Stan Insurance Company, under a policy which states that, in addition to my premium, Bob and Big Stan are entitled, on demand, to my kidneys.
SHUTTERS: Your house should have hurricane shutters on all the windows and all the doors. There are several types of shutters, with advantages and disadvantages:
Plywood shutters: The advantage is that, because you make them yourself, they're cheap. The disadvantage is that, because you make them yourself, they will fall off.
Sheet-metal shutters: The advantage is that these work well, once you get them all up. The disadvantage is that once you get them all up, your hands will be useless bleeding stumps, and it will be December.
Roll-down shutters: The advantages are that they're very easy to use, and will definitely protect your house. The disadvantage is that you will have to sell your house to pay for them.
"Hurricane-proof'' windows: These are the newest wrinkle in hurricane protection: They look like ordinary windows, but they can withstand hurricane winds! You can be sure of this, because the salesman says so. He lives in Iowa.
"Hurricane Proofing Your Property: As the hurricane approaches, check your yard for movable objects like barbecue grills, planters, patio furniture, visiting relatives, etc.; you should, as a precaution, throw these items into your swimming pool (if you don't have a swimming pool, you should have one built immediately). Otherwise, the hurricane winds will turn these objects into deadly missiles.
EVACUATION ROUTE: If you live in a low-lying area, you should have an evacuation route planned out. (To determine whether you live in a low-lying area, look at your driver's license; if it says "Florida" you live in a low-lying area.) The purpose of having an evacuation route is to avoid being trapped in your home when a major storm hits. Instead, you will be trapped in a gigantic traffic jam several miles from your home, along with two hundred thousand other evacuees. So, as a bonus, you will not be lonely.
HURRICANE SUPPLIES: If you don't evacuate, you will need a mess of supplies. Do not buy them now! Florida tradition requires that you wait until the last possible minute, then go to the supermarket and get into vicious fights with strangers over who gets the last can of SPAM. In addition to food and water, you will need the following supplies:
23 Flashlights. At least $167 worth of batteries that turn out, when the power goes out, to be the wrong size for the flashlights.
Bleach. (No, I don't know what the bleach is for. NOBODY knows what the bleach is for. But it's traditional, so GET some!)
A 55-gallon drum of underarm deodorant.
A big knife that you can strap to your leg. (This will be useless in a hurricane, but it looks cool.)
A large quantity of raw chicken, to placate the alligators. (Ask anybody who went through Andrew; after the hurricane, there WILL be irate alligators.)
$35,000 in cash or diamonds so that, after the hurricane passes, you can buy a generator from a man with no discernible teeth.
Of course these are just basic precautions. As the hurricane draws near, it is vitally important that you keep abreast of the situation by turning on your television and watching TV reporters in rain slickers stand right next to the ocean and tell you over and over how vitally important it is for everybody to stay away from the ocean.
Good luck and remember: it's great living in paradise! Really!
--------------------------------------------------
To: Ex-Floridians, present Floridians, those who visit Florida, future Floridians or those who know a Floridian.
We're about to enter the peak of the hurricane season. Any day now, you're going to turn on the TV and see a weather person pointing to some radar blob out in the Atlantic or Gulf of Mexico and making two basic meteorological points:
(1) There is no need to panic.
(2) We could all be killed.
Yes, hurricane season is an exciting time to be in Florida. If you're new to the area, you're probably wondering what you need to do to prepare for the possibility that we'll get hit by "the big one.''
Based on our experiences, we recommend that you follow this simple three-step hurricane preparedness plan:
STEP 1. Buy enough food and bottled water to last your family for at least three days.
STEP 2. Put these supplies into your car.
STEP 3. Drive to Iowa and remain there until Thanksgiving.
Unfortunately, statistics show that most people will not follow this sensible plan. Most people will foolishly stay here in Florida.
We'll start with one of the most important hurricane preparedness items:
HOMEOWNERS' INSURANCE: If you own a home, you must have hurricane insurance. Fortunately, this insurance is cheap and easy to get, as long as your home meets two basic requirements:
(1) It is reasonably well-built, and
(2) It is located in Iowa.
Unfortunately, if your home is located in Florida, or any other area that might actually be hit by a hurricane, most insurance companies would prefer not to sell you hurricane insurance, because then they might be required to pay YOU money, and that is certainly not why they got into the insurance business in the first place.
So you'll have to scrounge around for an insurance company, which will charge you an annual premium roughly equal to the replacement value of your house. At any moment, this company can drop you like used dental floss.
Since Hurricane Andrew, I have had an estimated 27 different home-insurance companies. This week, I'm covered by the Bob and Big Stan Insurance Company, under a policy which states that, in addition to my premium, Bob and Big Stan are entitled, on demand, to my kidneys.
SHUTTERS: Your house should have hurricane shutters on all the windows and all the doors. There are several types of shutters, with advantages and disadvantages:
Plywood shutters: The advantage is that, because you make them yourself, they're cheap. The disadvantage is that, because you make them yourself, they will fall off.
Sheet-metal shutters: The advantage is that these work well, once you get them all up. The disadvantage is that once you get them all up, your hands will be useless bleeding stumps, and it will be December.
Roll-down shutters: The advantages are that they're very easy to use, and will definitely protect your house. The disadvantage is that you will have to sell your house to pay for them.
"Hurricane-proof'' windows: These are the newest wrinkle in hurricane protection: They look like ordinary windows, but they can withstand hurricane winds! You can be sure of this, because the salesman says so. He lives in Iowa.
"Hurricane Proofing Your Property: As the hurricane approaches, check your yard for movable objects like barbecue grills, planters, patio furniture, visiting relatives, etc.; you should, as a precaution, throw these items into your swimming pool (if you don't have a swimming pool, you should have one built immediately). Otherwise, the hurricane winds will turn these objects into deadly missiles.
EVACUATION ROUTE: If you live in a low-lying area, you should have an evacuation route planned out. (To determine whether you live in a low-lying area, look at your driver's license; if it says "Florida" you live in a low-lying area.) The purpose of having an evacuation route is to avoid being trapped in your home when a major storm hits. Instead, you will be trapped in a gigantic traffic jam several miles from your home, along with two hundred thousand other evacuees. So, as a bonus, you will not be lonely.
HURRICANE SUPPLIES: If you don't evacuate, you will need a mess of supplies. Do not buy them now! Florida tradition requires that you wait until the last possible minute, then go to the supermarket and get into vicious fights with strangers over who gets the last can of SPAM. In addition to food and water, you will need the following supplies:
23 Flashlights. At least $167 worth of batteries that turn out, when the power goes out, to be the wrong size for the flashlights.
Bleach. (No, I don't know what the bleach is for. NOBODY knows what the bleach is for. But it's traditional, so GET some!)
A 55-gallon drum of underarm deodorant.
A big knife that you can strap to your leg. (This will be useless in a hurricane, but it looks cool.)
A large quantity of raw chicken, to placate the alligators. (Ask anybody who went through Andrew; after the hurricane, there WILL be irate alligators.)
$35,000 in cash or diamonds so that, after the hurricane passes, you can buy a generator from a man with no discernible teeth.
Of course these are just basic precautions. As the hurricane draws near, it is vitally important that you keep abreast of the situation by turning on your television and watching TV reporters in rain slickers stand right next to the ocean and tell you over and over how vitally important it is for everybody to stay away from the ocean.
Good luck and remember: it's great living in paradise! Really!
Crackbox 360
I'm in Chicago visiting R, M and their new little one. SO cute, but you have to feel for the kid if you've met the parents. I'm starting the therapy fund now.
Anyway, they have an XBox 360 AND we unlocked the video version of Settlers of Catan. Just call it electronic crack and leave it at that!
We're going to church at the mothership tonight. Donald Miller (Blue Like Jazz) is speaking and David Crowder Band is performing. Should be fun!
Anyway, they have an XBox 360 AND we unlocked the video version of Settlers of Catan. Just call it electronic crack and leave it at that!
We're going to church at the mothership tonight. Donald Miller (Blue Like Jazz) is speaking and David Crowder Band is performing. Should be fun!
Monday, June 11, 2007
The Ice Man Cometh
Precious and I went to the Arch today. It was really high, but a little cloudy so I didn't get to slide down the feather side like Precious' dad says you're supposed to do. I finally got to see the movie that Tia quotes all the time..."and the thing was done...."
I got to see a puppet say "trap the beaver." This was a first for me, and I enjoyed it immensely. I tried to take a picture of it, but it was blurry. Then a bear ate the trapper, and being philosophically opposed to gratuitous violence, we left the puppet show.
Afterwards we met Scooter for dinner. Yummy, but alas, I didn't take a picture for my food diary. The highlight of our evening was the busboy for our table. I think it was his first job EVER (as he appeared to be about 12 years old) and he was bound and determined to do it well. His main job during the meal was to refresh the ice in our glasses. He did this about 12 times. At one point, Scooter's glass was nothing but ice while my glass was nothing but water. We giggled madly about this throughout the evening, then came back to Precious' house and recreated the event. We giggled some more.
And then, we were done.
I got to see a puppet say "trap the beaver." This was a first for me, and I enjoyed it immensely. I tried to take a picture of it, but it was blurry. Then a bear ate the trapper, and being philosophically opposed to gratuitous violence, we left the puppet show.
Afterwards we met Scooter for dinner. Yummy, but alas, I didn't take a picture for my food diary. The highlight of our evening was the busboy for our table. I think it was his first job EVER (as he appeared to be about 12 years old) and he was bound and determined to do it well. His main job during the meal was to refresh the ice in our glasses. He did this about 12 times. At one point, Scooter's glass was nothing but ice while my glass was nothing but water. We giggled madly about this throughout the evening, then came back to Precious' house and recreated the event. We giggled some more.
And then, we were done.
Play Ball!
Yesterday, Precious and Scooter took me to a Cardinals game. It was a little rainy, but luckily, Precious has this genetic poncho trait and so we were quite prepared. The Cards won; it was very exciting. Afterwards, we did took the traditional post-game trip to Ted Drewes for frozen custard. I had the "Flying Dutchman" with chocolate, butterscotch and walnuts. I added that photo to my visual food diary.
Sunday, June 10, 2007
Meet me in St. Louis
So Precious (as I'm calling my St. Louis host, since she IS precious AND she collects Precious Moments) started the new leg of the sofa bed tour off with Mickey Mouse pancakes. See? She IS precious.
We're going to the Cardinals game today. It's "Pooches in the Park" and people paid $80 to bring their dogs to the park. I want to buy one of those "invisible dogs on a leash" and take my own. Either that or one of those fancy "dog purses" for my invisible chihuahua. It'd be funny and I have an invisible ticket.
Precious said no.
We're going to the Cardinals game today. It's "Pooches in the Park" and people paid $80 to bring their dogs to the park. I want to buy one of those "invisible dogs on a leash" and take my own. Either that or one of those fancy "dog purses" for my invisible chihuahua. It'd be funny and I have an invisible ticket.
Precious said no.
Travel Mojo
Getting from Maine to St. Louis yesterday was QUITE the challenge. The amazing thing is that NONE of the cities I went through were on the originally scheduled itinerary!
It started with an autmated call at 7 AM from the airline (which shall remain nameless) saying that my flight from Portland to La Guardia was going to be SO delayed that I would miss my connection to Pittsburgh, and the subsequent flight to St. Louis. When I got to the Portland airport, they "booked" (please note the quotes; they will reappear later in the saga) me on a direct flight on another airline from Boston to St. Louis and put me in a cab for a 2 hour ride to Boston.
Well, their definition of "booking" a flight and the new airline's definition did not seem to match. I ended up going on Airline A (which shall stay nameless, as I officially dislike them GREATLY) to Charlotte and THEN to St. Louis. I had a 10 minute layover. Thank goodness the gates were close!
The good news is I made it to St. Louis, and only 4 hours late.
The bad news is that I will try to avoid US Air at all costs in the future. Or is that good news?......
It started with an autmated call at 7 AM from the airline (which shall remain nameless) saying that my flight from Portland to La Guardia was going to be SO delayed that I would miss my connection to Pittsburgh, and the subsequent flight to St. Louis. When I got to the Portland airport, they "booked" (please note the quotes; they will reappear later in the saga) me on a direct flight on another airline from Boston to St. Louis and put me in a cab for a 2 hour ride to Boston.
Well, their definition of "booking" a flight and the new airline's definition did not seem to match. I ended up going on Airline A (which shall stay nameless, as I officially dislike them GREATLY) to Charlotte and THEN to St. Louis. I had a 10 minute layover. Thank goodness the gates were close!
The good news is I made it to St. Louis, and only 4 hours late.
The bad news is that I will try to avoid US Air at all costs in the future. Or is that good news?......
Friday, June 08, 2007
Thumbs undecided; nope, down....
Saw the movie Waitress tonight. I have to really process through it but I'm pretty sure I hated it. It was really well done, but just punched me the wrong way.
Let's see: Jenna is trapped in a miserable marriage, gets pregnant with a baby she doesn't want, has an affair with her married gynocologist but then everything is right with the world when the baby is born.
Yeah, I hated it.
Let's see: Jenna is trapped in a miserable marriage, gets pregnant with a baby she doesn't want, has an affair with her married gynocologist but then everything is right with the world when the baby is born.
Yeah, I hated it.
Tubby's - 3rd time's the charm
Today's selection: Yellow Butter Brickle with granola coat and chocolate dip, plus I added some glazed pecans that I received as a gift from a student. YUMMY! Lamburrito had black raspberry with chocolate jimmys - also yummy! Then Tubby took us to his back office to see the new website. By the time we left, one of the employees was having a raspberry chocolate chip that looked DEEE-licious. Before I could wipe the drool off of my lip, there was a sample cone in my hand.
I'm leaving Maine tomorrow. I'll miss Tubby's tremendously.
I'm leaving Maine tomorrow. I'll miss Tubby's tremendously.
Thursday, June 07, 2007
Tubby's report, take 2
Time: 2:30 PM
pre-ice cream warm-up act: grilled cheese for me, hot dog for lamburrito
main course: I chose the chocolate chip cookie dough in a cup, with the chocolate shell topping. Lamburrito discovered the "Almond Joy:" coconut ice cream, almond slivers and chocolate shell.
Tomorrow I'm going for something fruity.
pre-ice cream warm-up act: grilled cheese for me, hot dog for lamburrito
main course: I chose the chocolate chip cookie dough in a cup, with the chocolate shell topping. Lamburrito discovered the "Almond Joy:" coconut ice cream, almond slivers and chocolate shell.
Tomorrow I'm going for something fruity.
More sugary delights
Due to technical difficulties, the image of the yummy chocolate covered cream puff that was happily consumed at Moody's diner yesterday is unavailable. We apologize for this inconvenience.
Tuesday, June 05, 2007
Tubby's Report
Tuesday, June 5, 2007
8:17 PM
61 degrees, partly cloudy
UV index: 0 Low
Winds from S @ 5 mph
Humidity: 94%
Pressure: 29.50 in.
Flavor: regular Butter Pecan sundae with hot fudge, whipped cream, chocolate sprinkles and a cherry.
8:17 PM
61 degrees, partly cloudy
UV index: 0 Low
Winds from S @ 5 mph
Humidity: 94%
Pressure: 29.50 in.
Flavor: regular Butter Pecan sundae with hot fudge, whipped cream, chocolate sprinkles and a cherry.
Driving Ms. Bing
This was part of an e-mail exchange with D in Orlando. I spent the weekend up there but was too tired to drive home Sunday night. I got up at 5 AM Monday morning to drive back to Miami.
------------------------------------------------------
I’m here, safe and sound (and TIRED) and JUST as I walked in to the office, my secretary told me she had my 10 o’clock on the phone. Seems the kid now wants to drop band and go to drama. Then I check my e-mail, and my advanced euphonium player decided to take study hall instead.
I guess the thing that pimps me off the most is that I got a call last week from a parent whose daughter wanted to switch from Chorus to Band and the principal convinced me that the chorus numbers were dangerously low, and asked if the student could just stay in chorus. But today I lost two. I’m ready to blow, because what they are saying (through actions, not words) is that any kid can change at any time, depending on who’s fielding the call that day, AND I could come back in July with significantly different numbers and instrumentation than I have right now.
That’s a very soothing, calming way to start a summer vacation.
HAPPY FREAKIN’ SUMMER VACATION!
------------------------------------------------------
I’m here, safe and sound (and TIRED) and JUST as I walked in to the office, my secretary told me she had my 10 o’clock on the phone. Seems the kid now wants to drop band and go to drama. Then I check my e-mail, and my advanced euphonium player decided to take study hall instead.
I guess the thing that pimps me off the most is that I got a call last week from a parent whose daughter wanted to switch from Chorus to Band and the principal convinced me that the chorus numbers were dangerously low, and asked if the student could just stay in chorus. But today I lost two. I’m ready to blow, because what they are saying (through actions, not words) is that any kid can change at any time, depending on who’s fielding the call that day, AND I could come back in July with significantly different numbers and instrumentation than I have right now.
That’s a very soothing, calming way to start a summer vacation.
HAPPY FREAKIN’ SUMMER VACATION!
Time to change the poll
WOW! This poll was up for quite a long time. So sorry I've been negligient. The last few weeks have been full of activity, and not much blog worthy inspiration....
Would you rather:
simultaneously sustain 20,000 mosquito bites 80% 4 votes
consume Charmin until you die? 20% 1 votes
5 votes total
Would you rather:
simultaneously sustain 20,000 mosquito bites 80% 4 votes
consume Charmin until you die? 20% 1 votes
5 votes total
Mr. G - Can You Move?
If you thought I was a whack job, you should really check THIS out!
(I apologize to the G Man, as this video doesn't not include the usual anonymity that The Bing Blog prefers, but it was just too good not to include!)
(I apologize to the G Man, as this video doesn't not include the usual anonymity that The Bing Blog prefers, but it was just too good not to include!)
Sunday, June 03, 2007
The Annual Tour....
The summer vacation tour is gearing up, and should prove to be a good one. I'm currently on a short jaunt to Orlando. We went to SeaWorld yesterday, which I haven't been to in YEARS. Tuesday, I leave for the real deal. It looks like this:
June 5 - Maine
June 9 - St. Louis
June 12 - Chicago
June 16-July 11 - Ashland
July 12-16 - Orlando
Then a break, then:
Aug 2-5 - San Francisco.
The problem now is that I have to pack!
June 5 - Maine
June 9 - St. Louis
June 12 - Chicago
June 16-July 11 - Ashland
July 12-16 - Orlando
Then a break, then:
Aug 2-5 - San Francisco.
The problem now is that I have to pack!
Thursday, May 31, 2007
Movies and such
Just watched "High Noon" which is #33 on the American Film Institute's "Top 100 Movies of All Time." I'm not a big western fan, but HOLY COW! If you haven't seen it, watch it soon!
Thursday, May 17, 2007
Lessons from Longing
I didn't write this, but I sure could have.....
and for those of you who want to "sermonize" me and tell me what I should do, or think, or feel, or believe, please don't. I'm really not interested.
THANKS!
and for those of you who want to "sermonize" me and tell me what I should do, or think, or feel, or believe, please don't. I'm really not interested.
THANKS!
Monday, May 14, 2007
7th Heaven
Today I took 130 of my closest 13 year old friends on a field trip to the Youth Center on Miami Beach. They had a COMPLETE free day with bowling, ice skating, swimming, basketball and TONS of junk food. I was THE MOST POPULAR (cue music, Tia) Dean, even if just for the day.
Let's wait and see what tomorrow brings.
Let's wait and see what tomorrow brings.
Saturday, May 12, 2007
All the World's a Perv Palace
Just found out some news on one of my professional "colleagues." He's been known for years for being a little "touchy." If he were one of Snow White's dwarves, he would be "Gropey." He's been removed from his classroom over allegations of inappropriate interaction with a female student. Nobody that knows him is really surprised. Also found out he had some questionable interactions while judging this year.
What IS it with these sickos?
What IS it with these sickos?
Friday, May 11, 2007
I love technology!
I am at yet another state board meeting. Our year-end financial reports are due. I was actually done early and ready to go, but then, as always, I ran into trouble. This was the memo I included in my report:
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dear Sirs,
I apologize for the quality of the print job on the General Ledger. I got in a fight with my printer this morning. I lost. We are no longer communicating. I hope to make up with the printer when I get back to school on Monday. It feels neglected and refuses to work again until I feed it another magenta and cyan cartridge. I tried to explain that it would be fine to print this document in black and white and I would take care of it later. It refused and spit on me.
In any case, I had to save the ledger as a text file and reprint it elsewhere. The printer is jealous, but it knows that if it doesn’t accept my apology, it is HISTORY. I hope this copy of the ledger will suffice. Please remember to stock up on extra ink. The machines know when you are in a time crunch and will use that information against you. They hold the key.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dear Sirs,
I apologize for the quality of the print job on the General Ledger. I got in a fight with my printer this morning. I lost. We are no longer communicating. I hope to make up with the printer when I get back to school on Monday. It feels neglected and refuses to work again until I feed it another magenta and cyan cartridge. I tried to explain that it would be fine to print this document in black and white and I would take care of it later. It refused and spit on me.
In any case, I had to save the ledger as a text file and reprint it elsewhere. The printer is jealous, but it knows that if it doesn’t accept my apology, it is HISTORY. I hope this copy of the ledger will suffice. Please remember to stock up on extra ink. The machines know when you are in a time crunch and will use that information against you. They hold the key.
Wednesday, May 09, 2007
In the Dragon's Lair
I got called into the Dragon's office today. It was a potentially scary situation since she's a little unstable at times and the situation with "Mr. McFeely" (the kids call him that) has become "THE" most talked about thing on campus. She's not concerned about his behavior. She's concerned that people are talking about it and wants to get to the bottom of it. She doesn't feel that he's a threat to the school or to the students.
I'm not convinced.
I'm not convinced.
Monday, May 07, 2007
Disco Frogger
Would you rather have a car with
a crazy fun-house style rear view mirror 0% 0 votes
strobe light headlights 100% 4 votes
----------------
Could you IMAGINE someone trying to cross the street in front of you with strobe headlights glaring in their eyes? Could you IMAGINE how funny it would look watching them run like Frogger, trying not to get squashed?
a crazy fun-house style rear view mirror 0% 0 votes
strobe light headlights 100% 4 votes
----------------
Could you IMAGINE someone trying to cross the street in front of you with strobe headlights glaring in their eyes? Could you IMAGINE how funny it would look watching them run like Frogger, trying not to get squashed?
Working with scary freaks.
Next week is the LAST full week of classes. I think I'm more excited than the kiddies are. The last two weeks have been tough, since I'm dealing with some personal demons that crept out of their cave due to scary behavior by another faculty member. I need to make an appointment with the Head of School and express my concerns, etc. Not that it'll change the outcome but at least I'll know I tried. If nothing changes, I've already started considering other options. I don't feel comfortable working here with a possible deviant predator freak. I've seen quite enough of that in my lifetime, thank you.
Wednesday, May 02, 2007
The downward spiral
There are 13 class days left in the school year, not that I'm counting. Our final concert is tomorrow, so once that's done, it's all downhill. Can't wait for summer!
Tuesday, May 01, 2007
Monday, April 30, 2007
FRIJOLISA
Here's another installation by LPOU - this one inflicted much pain on here students (and just made me HUNGRY!) note the facutly members in the background, just to give you a sense of the SCALE of this monster!
---------------------------
‘HAVE A PEASA OF OUR FRIJOLISA” installation of 15x10 foot Mona Lisa mosaic made from peas and beans.
I don’t know what came over me. But the kids willingly participated. Okay, halfway through they were whining, but now they are happy. And they never want to see legumes again.
(notes by LPOU herself!)
“right before the trouble began”
Here's an art installation by my friend LPOU (Leopard Princess of the Universe). I asked her if I could blog it; here's here response:
---------------
Sure, blog me baby,
I put John 1:1-6 next to it because it’s a Genesis/Jesus picture.
But
It’s unofficially titled “right before the trouble began”
It’s Genesis when man hasn’t been made from the ground, the world right after creation when every creature got along , the serpent is stirring though, the crown of thorns above it because the plan of salvation was already in place and at the top the mystery of creation /evolution by the nautilus shell and its intricate design, the pearl for Christ (a little Catholic iconography “Pearl of great price” )
And the red coral for blood of Christ (more Catholic iconography) and medieval symbol for protection. And there are angels in the clouds.
I don't understand you...
Would you rather be only capable of communicating through
reggae songs 20% 1 vote
the use of a Speak and Spell 80% 4 votes
5 votes total
----------------------
considering Tia's "Tales of Barbados" and the "islander accent" problem, I'm thinking the Speak and Spell would have been a great tool for her last adventure!
reggae songs 20% 1 vote
the use of a Speak and Spell 80% 4 votes
5 votes total
----------------------
considering Tia's "Tales of Barbados" and the "islander accent" problem, I'm thinking the Speak and Spell would have been a great tool for her last adventure!
Hail to the Chief!
I got to observe this LIVE and in person on Saturday, as I was hired by Miami-Dade College to play for their graduation. The only down side was they paid me $50 and we played "Pomp and Circumstance" for 50 minutes. Coincidence?
Regardless of your political views, it was a pretty cool experience.
Regardless of your political views, it was a pretty cool experience.
Friday, April 27, 2007
I just spent A LOT of money....
I'm finally getting around to renovating the back apartment. My workman gave me an estimate in February. Labor ALONE was close to 6K. It took until this week for me to feel like I could take the financial plunge. That and I needed to change SOMETHING in my life, since I'd had such a string of bad luck lately. Having at least ONE room in the house that was nice, new and DONE will be pleasant.
So yesterday I went to Home Depot, got a new charge account there and spent some serious bread. BUT with the new account, I saved 10% AND got no interest for 1 year. THAT I can manage.
Tonight I'm off to Lowes for the rest of what I need. Wish me luck.
So yesterday I went to Home Depot, got a new charge account there and spent some serious bread. BUT with the new account, I saved 10% AND got no interest for 1 year. THAT I can manage.
Tonight I'm off to Lowes for the rest of what I need. Wish me luck.
Wednesday, April 25, 2007
Putting the "Cuss" in "Customer Service"
So get this: (I LOVE when Mer starts her voice messages to me with that!)
I had to go buy a new charger for the new phone that I got last week (and that I HATE). Remember that I dunked my old yet sophisticated Treo in a rather deep puddle and it subsequently drowned. ANYWAY - I needed some cheap thing to get me through the weekend in NYC. I was told I had 14 days to return it if I didn't like it. (Which I don't) EXCEPT that I left the freakin' charger in the hotel room. So yesterday I had to pay for a new charger so that I'll have one in the box when I return it when my newer, more sophisticated and rather expensive Treo arrives.
The point of the story is this: I walk into the cellphone place about 20 minutes before closing yesterday. There are exactly 4 employees on the floor and exactly one customer (that being me). I walk up to the counter and the "manager on duty" (I can only assume) says "Please take a number and someone will be with you shortly."
The happy ending is that my number was the next one to be called.
I had to go buy a new charger for the new phone that I got last week (and that I HATE). Remember that I dunked my old yet sophisticated Treo in a rather deep puddle and it subsequently drowned. ANYWAY - I needed some cheap thing to get me through the weekend in NYC. I was told I had 14 days to return it if I didn't like it. (Which I don't) EXCEPT that I left the freakin' charger in the hotel room. So yesterday I had to pay for a new charger so that I'll have one in the box when I return it when my newer, more sophisticated and rather expensive Treo arrives.
The point of the story is this: I walk into the cellphone place about 20 minutes before closing yesterday. There are exactly 4 employees on the floor and exactly one customer (that being me). I walk up to the counter and the "manager on duty" (I can only assume) says "Please take a number and someone will be with you shortly."
The happy ending is that my number was the next one to be called.
Tuesday, April 24, 2007
Easter Brisket
Would you rather live in a world where
the Easter Bunny were real 100% 6 votes
there was a Lord of Brisket who fills children's shoes with meat on the first day of Spring 0% 0 votes
6 votes total
-------------------
Yeah, sure....the next thing you're going to tell me is that Santa Claus is a phony as well.
the Easter Bunny were real 100% 6 votes
there was a Lord of Brisket who fills children's shoes with meat on the first day of Spring 0% 0 votes
6 votes total
-------------------
Yeah, sure....the next thing you're going to tell me is that Santa Claus is a phony as well.
No longer Down the Drain!
Just got my quarterly water bill (January - March). It was $52. Far cry from the $700 bill I got in December. It's AMAZING how much money a $3 toilet flapper can save!
How to Get to London
This is why the Internet is the greatest media created in history.
Take 60 seconds to do this, I guarantee you will show someone else, it's too funny not to.
1. go to www.google.com
2. click on "maps"
3. click on "get directions"
4. type "New York" in the first box (the "from" box)
5. type "London" in the second box (the "to" box)
6. hit get directions
7. scroll down to step #24
Take 60 seconds to do this, I guarantee you will show someone else, it's too funny not to.
1. go to www.google.com
2. click on "maps"
3. click on "get directions"
4. type "New York" in the first box (the "from" box)
5. type "London" in the second box (the "to" box)
6. hit get directions
7. scroll down to step #24
NY, NY!
Spent last weekend in NYC with lamburrito, D-Man and Mer. I'm still exhausted, but we had fun. I got to catch up with Clala, who looks like a squillion bucks. She's still a tough-as-nails cop in Long Island, though. We had a drink in Times Square then caught up with the FPCO gang on the way to the Empire State Building. I got to see the church gang's dress rehearsal at Carnegie, but couldn't stay for the gig. Lamburrito had a camp reunion and we criss-crossed paths all weekend, only catching up to crash in the room late at night. We DID eat a Three Berry pie from the Little Pie company in Grand Central. YUMMY!
Can't wait to go back again!
Can't wait to go back again!
Wednesday, April 18, 2007
On school tragedies...
I'm not going to pretend that I have any idea what to say after what has happened at Virginia Tech this week. There is nothing to say. Not only are prayers needed for those injured and for the families of those killed, but prayers are needed for schools around the country, as I fear we will see some ripple effects and copycat behavior. I've already heard a few reports of other incidents. Let's hope it gets better soon.
I got an e-mail that the Virginia Tech alums are asking everyone to wear orange and maroon (their colors) on Friday as a show of support. I'm going to scour my closet...
I got an e-mail that the Virginia Tech alums are asking everyone to wear orange and maroon (their colors) on Friday as a show of support. I'm going to scour my closet...
Tuesday, April 17, 2007
Cheesy Balls
Would you rather live in a world where it
rained red rubber playground balls 80% 4 votes
snowed shredded cheese 20% 1 vote
5 votes total
--------------------
Just think: ALL dodgeball, ALL the time!
rained red rubber playground balls 80% 4 votes
snowed shredded cheese 20% 1 vote
5 votes total
--------------------
Just think: ALL dodgeball, ALL the time!
Middle School Coolness Test
This test is based on how cool you were in Middle School--what crowd you ran with, etc., but it's still pretty accurate. My result said "You are STILL the coolest kid in Middle School!"
You may want to send it to your friends to see if they've changed. Better yet, send the here! They can vote in the Poll 'o the Week as well.
You may want to send it to your friends to see if they've changed. Better yet, send the here! They can vote in the Poll 'o the Week as well.
Saturday, April 14, 2007
Friday the 13th
Amazingly enough, it was a pretty calm day. Nothing went wrong. I got ahead on some projects. I finished everything on my to-do list for the week. I went to the school dance recital with Lamburrito and his nieces. We ended the night at with hot fudge sundaes. How much more perfect can it get?
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
Good news/bad news
The good news is that my knee only hurts when I go up or down the stairs, and the bruising isn't too bad.
The bad news is that my phone can't swim. I hope to have a new one by the end of the week.
Oh, and it POURED last night. That's how I found the leak in the ceiling.
The bad news is that my phone can't swim. I hope to have a new one by the end of the week.
Oh, and it POURED last night. That's how I found the leak in the ceiling.
Monday, April 09, 2007
Home stretch
We made it back to Miami yesterday at 5 AM. I slept a little (ummm 7 AM - 2 PM; 4 PM - 8 PM, 1 AM - 7 AM) and now I'm back at school for a fun-filled day. We're ALL excited to be here.
6 more weeks of school, then it's off to my summer adventures. Let's hope they go a bit smoother than this last jaunt.
6 more weeks of school, then it's off to my summer adventures. Let's hope they go a bit smoother than this last jaunt.
It's unanimous.......
Would you rather....
fart nitrous oxide (laughing gas) 100% 6 votes
drool Listerine 0% 0 votes
6 votes total
------------------------
.......AND somewhat scary.
fart nitrous oxide (laughing gas) 100% 6 votes
drool Listerine 0% 0 votes
6 votes total
------------------------
.......AND somewhat scary.
Saturday, April 07, 2007
And so the day begins....
We're sitting in the hotel lobby. It's 10:45 AM. The busses were supposed to be here at 9:45 AM.
The cut wasn't too deep
Today's trip update:
Yesterday, we took the kids to Muir Woods. One of our boys tripped on a tree root. It only took 7 stitches to close the wound. Unfortunately, he wasn't able to go on to Six Flags with his friends.
Today is our last day. Please pray for us. Our biggest fear is having our red eye flight cancelled and needing to spend the night in the San Fran airport with 83 8th graders. Maybe I shouldn't have mentioned it. I may have given Fate a cruel idea.
Yesterday, we took the kids to Muir Woods. One of our boys tripped on a tree root. It only took 7 stitches to close the wound. Unfortunately, he wasn't able to go on to Six Flags with his friends.
Today is our last day. Please pray for us. Our biggest fear is having our red eye flight cancelled and needing to spend the night in the San Fran airport with 83 8th graders. Maybe I shouldn't have mentioned it. I may have given Fate a cruel idea.
Friday, April 06, 2007
Gloom, despair and agony on me....
If it weren't for bad luck, I'd have no luck at all....remember the old "Hee Haw" song? That's my theme these days.
WFH: Spring Break continues:
We showed up at Bubba Gump for dinner on the first night; Bubba Gump had changed our reservation to a different night. We ended up going to Lori's Diner (where we were SUPPOSED to eat tonight). Lori's originally said they couldn't take us because they already had a large group coming in. We finally figured out that large group was US, and that we were going to finally be able to feed 95 hungry people.
I told you we went to the Giants Game yesterday. What I DIDN'T tell you is that when we got there and gave the kids their tickets, they all went skipping off to the gate, only to come promptly running back. "These tickets are for TOMORROW night." The stadium had sent us the wrong tickets. Luckily, we got them changed and had a fabulous time. After the game, we were supposed to have 2 tour busses to take us back to the hotel. Only one showed up. We have 95 people in our group. We had to shuttle two trips of tired adolescents at 11 PM. Luckily they were great!
Today, we were stuffing dim sum down our throats as fast as we could manage (an annual ritual that we quite enjoy) when the tour company called us. Bubba Gump (rescheduled for tonight) was off, because their pipes burst and the restaurant is flooded.
Of COURSE it is. Welcome to my week!
WFH: Spring Break continues:
We showed up at Bubba Gump for dinner on the first night; Bubba Gump had changed our reservation to a different night. We ended up going to Lori's Diner (where we were SUPPOSED to eat tonight). Lori's originally said they couldn't take us because they already had a large group coming in. We finally figured out that large group was US, and that we were going to finally be able to feed 95 hungry people.
I told you we went to the Giants Game yesterday. What I DIDN'T tell you is that when we got there and gave the kids their tickets, they all went skipping off to the gate, only to come promptly running back. "These tickets are for TOMORROW night." The stadium had sent us the wrong tickets. Luckily, we got them changed and had a fabulous time. After the game, we were supposed to have 2 tour busses to take us back to the hotel. Only one showed up. We have 95 people in our group. We had to shuttle two trips of tired adolescents at 11 PM. Luckily they were great!
Today, we were stuffing dim sum down our throats as fast as we could manage (an annual ritual that we quite enjoy) when the tour company called us. Bubba Gump (rescheduled for tonight) was off, because their pipes burst and the restaurant is flooded.
Of COURSE it is. Welcome to my week!
Thursday, April 05, 2007
WFH continues....
I just got a call from my pastor, who is watching Peanut for me while I'm in San Francisco. She didn't wake up this morning. She was 15.
What a game!
In case you didn't know, I'm in San Francisco chaperoning the eighth grade Spring Break trip. We went to the opening night Giants game today. The game was awesome, the stadium was awesome and the fireworks show was AWESOME. Made us all realize how much the Marlins organization doesn't get it!
Wednesday, April 04, 2007
The Week continues.....
So after all the excitement of Sunday morning, I was hoping to get to bed early Sunday night. I went to bed at 9:30 and was a little restless. Then the phone rang at midnight. A friend had gotten into a fight with her husband and needed a place to stay for the night. She came over and we talked it out for 2 hours, then she felt good enough to go home.
Yet another night of little sleep. But it was for a good reason.
Yet another night of little sleep. But it was for a good reason.
Sunday, April 01, 2007
WFH Grand Finale (NOT an April Fools joke!)
So I didn't get to recap the rest of my week, but I'll skip right to the ending. It officially ended at 3:49 AM when I woke up to find a strange man in my kitchen.
LONG story short - I yelled, He ran. He took $28 but left my wallet. How considerate. The police finally finished dusting for fingerprints at 5:30 AM. I haven't slept since. Could be because the police said, "He found an easy target. He'll probably be back." Very comforting.
Oh, and I just found out my dog's food is now on the recall list. No wonder she hasn't been eating.
(Insert multiple expletives at a very loud volume here.)
LONG story short - I yelled, He ran. He took $28 but left my wallet. How considerate. The police finally finished dusting for fingerprints at 5:30 AM. I haven't slept since. Could be because the police said, "He found an easy target. He'll probably be back." Very comforting.
Oh, and I just found out my dog's food is now on the recall list. No wonder she hasn't been eating.
(Insert multiple expletives at a very loud volume here.)
Thursday, March 29, 2007
WFHDTDAB, Monday
This has been the "Week from Hell due to Dumb-Ass Behavior." Spring Break starts tomorrow and the kids can't seem to keep it together. It started on Monday with a discipline committee meeting over a student who had been written up about 14 times for different things. He'd served cafeteria duty, detention, and even a Saturday detention just last week. We had a parent conference; he screwed up again about 3 hours later. 3 hours before the discipline committe meeting, he decided he was too tired to actually CARRY his 25 pound bookbag down the stairs, so he just dropped it off his back over the 2nd story balcony railing. No, he didn't look first. YES, it did land on someone's head. No, she's not SERIOUSLY hurt, but she did get hurt. Due to "Dumb-Ass Behavior."
So 3 hours later, we're sitting in a room with the 3 deans, his advisor and another teacher for a meeting that had been scheduled for over a week, pondering how he could A) do something so stupid B) do something so stupid KNOWING that we were having this meeting. After 2 hours of listening to this kid and his parents babble on and say NOTHING of consequence, the committee voted to "separate him from the school." That's Prep school talk for expulsion.
Then I had another hour of talking to the principal, who was a little nervous to kick him out. (Hmmm...I wonder if she was worried that our head of school would be angry, since the parents own a very successful business and had just been invited to a "cultivation" dinner for donations.) The head of school wasn't in a great mood when we called her, because she was in the hospital getting chemo, and was getting a needle inserted RIGHT at the time the principal called. In any case, the expulsion stood, and as hard as it was, it was the right thing to do.
Then came Tuesday.......
So 3 hours later, we're sitting in a room with the 3 deans, his advisor and another teacher for a meeting that had been scheduled for over a week, pondering how he could A) do something so stupid B) do something so stupid KNOWING that we were having this meeting. After 2 hours of listening to this kid and his parents babble on and say NOTHING of consequence, the committee voted to "separate him from the school." That's Prep school talk for expulsion.
Then I had another hour of talking to the principal, who was a little nervous to kick him out. (Hmmm...I wonder if she was worried that our head of school would be angry, since the parents own a very successful business and had just been invited to a "cultivation" dinner for donations.) The head of school wasn't in a great mood when we called her, because she was in the hospital getting chemo, and was getting a needle inserted RIGHT at the time the principal called. In any case, the expulsion stood, and as hard as it was, it was the right thing to do.
Then came Tuesday.......
Wednesday, March 28, 2007
Cats in Space
Would you rather live in....
the Star Trek Universe 14% 1 vote
the world of Dr. Seuss 86% 6 votes
I guess maybe I should have specified which Star Trek universe. It may have made all the difference.
the Star Trek Universe 14% 1 vote
the world of Dr. Seuss 86% 6 votes
I guess maybe I should have specified which Star Trek universe. It may have made all the difference.
I got a raise!
Monday, we had a student switch places with our principal. It's one of the items sold at our annual auction; I have no idea how much his parents paid for him to be able to skip classes. During assembly, he told the kids to untuck their shirts and said he would write up anyone he caught with their shirts tucked in. He also gave them a FULL dress down for Tuesday (which meant jeans and t-shirts. The kids LOVE that and so do the teachers. The best part of the day is that he told the teachers he was giving them all raises. Then he stood outside the auditorium and gave each of us 4 pennies. I gave him a hard time about not springing for the whole nickel. So he gave me another penney. Then he put a stack of 4 pennies in every teacher's mailbox, but somehow, I got 2 stacks. So all in all, I got a 13 cent raise. Not bad considering the week I've had. I'll tell you all about that next time.
Monday, March 26, 2007
Only a Band Director's Kid!
I have a band director friend whose 2nd grade son seems to be having a little trouble playing recorder in music class. A note was sent home that little J needed to practice 20 minutes on his song. Dad sent him into his room to do his work. When he went to check on the progress, he noticed that his son had turned his Spider-Man poster backwards and wrote "Warm Up Room" on the back.
I guess the kid has been around WAY too many festivals lately!
I guess the kid has been around WAY too many festivals lately!
Freakish Alien Arrives!
Got a call Thursday night from R & M in Chicago. The baby formerly known as the Freakish Alien has arrived. Molly Grace was born at 8:06 PM on Tuesday after 36 hours of labor. In true M form, there was heard the phrase "Well. THAT'S a first!" when she had not one, but TWO epidurals, neither of which did the job intended. She ended up going under general anesthesia and having a C section.
The family is home and doing well. It won't be long until that child starts rebelling, I'm sure!
The family is home and doing well. It won't be long until that child starts rebelling, I'm sure!
Wednesday, March 21, 2007
God moments are NICE!
So I'm sitting in small group tonight, discussing Hebrews 3 and what our responsibilities are when holding fellow believers to a higher standard and confronting their behavior when we feel it's destructive or unhealthy. WideDaddy Dave asked us to think about the person that we've created a relationship with whom we trust enough to ask to hold us accountable, and then my phone rang. It was MY "trust buddy." I was thinking SO hard about them that they felt the need to ring in.
HOW FREAKIN' COOL IS THAT?!
HOW FREAKIN' COOL IS THAT?!
Who's worse?
So Spring Break officially starts at 3 PM next Friday, 3/30. The kids went on Spring Break officially at 2 PM today. I quickly followed. We're all just dancing around in limbo for the next week or so. Who are we trying to kid?
Tuesday, March 20, 2007
Multicultural LUNCH!
Since about 90% of the students at my school have parents and/or grandparents who were born outside of the US (and probably 50% of the students themselves!) we celebrate "Multicultural Day" every March. The highlight is that the parents send in native dishes for lunch. Today was an International FEAST! I had Cuban Arroz con Pollo, Jamaica patties, Thai noodles, Indian Curry Chicken, Chinese Won Ton soup, Jewish Keugel, and so many other things that I can't even remember. I was SO mad when the bell rang - I never even got to the dessert table!
Monday, March 19, 2007
Seven Dwarves of Porn
So I hear that some good friends of mine were having a spot of fun whilst roaming through the Magical Rat Land in central Florida. It seems they were coming up with possible porn names for the Seven Dwarves. I didn't get to hear them all, but "Snowball" would be a good choice. Either that or "Hot Carl."
OK, never mind....
OK, never mind....
DON'T drink the Kool-Aid!
Would you rather.....
have a permanent grape Kool-aid mustache 0% 0 votes
have permanent Dorito residue on your fingers? 100% 4 votes
4 votes total
--------------
While I agree that Doritos are finger-lickin' good, I can't help but wonder if the Kool-Aid aversion has anything to do with the Jim Jones cult in Guyana? Just a thought......
have a permanent grape Kool-aid mustache 0% 0 votes
have permanent Dorito residue on your fingers? 100% 4 votes
4 votes total
--------------
While I agree that Doritos are finger-lickin' good, I can't help but wonder if the Kool-Aid aversion has anything to do with the Jim Jones cult in Guyana? Just a thought......
Thursday, March 15, 2007
San Fran Foodies
Today, the 8th grade Dean (Lamburrito) sent me an e-mail regarding the upcoming annual trip to San Francisco.
My response was "I’m getting excited, although I may STOP eating between now and then to compensate for the food orgy in which we are about to partake."
He wrote back "I hear you. My mouth unfortunately is deaf!!!"
It's going to be a fabulous trip, as always!
My response was "I’m getting excited, although I may STOP eating between now and then to compensate for the food orgy in which we are about to partake."
He wrote back "I hear you. My mouth unfortunately is deaf!!!"
It's going to be a fabulous trip, as always!
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
Easy Money!
Since spring is here, the hormonal adolescents I work with seem to be having trouble controlling their impulsivity. Not in the way you imagine however. Instead, it's mostly the 7th grade boys pounding on each other. This is my 3rd year as their Dean, and I am finally getting the hang of the usual pattern: Boy A teases Boy B. B teases A louder. A pushes B. B pushes A harder. This pattern continues until either an adult intervenes OR someone gets hurt. The cycle is considered a complete success if someone is actually transported to a medical facility, usually by a vehicle with lights and sirens.
The school has decided that preemptive measures are in order and are paying for adults to supervise the parking lot area where students are picked up after school. I get to sit outside for 2 1/2 hours a day, 3 days a week for $20 an hour. I can do whatever I want while I sit - read, surf the Internet, write e-mails, even blog! With a laptop and the wireless network, it's better than Starbucks!
I LOVE my 7th graders!
The school has decided that preemptive measures are in order and are paying for adults to supervise the parking lot area where students are picked up after school. I get to sit outside for 2 1/2 hours a day, 3 days a week for $20 an hour. I can do whatever I want while I sit - read, surf the Internet, write e-mails, even blog! With a laptop and the wireless network, it's better than Starbucks!
I LOVE my 7th graders!
Monday, March 12, 2007
It's still dark out!
So I remembered to turn my clocks back for Daylight Savings time. The problem is that when I wake up in the morning, it's still DARK. So my body says "Hey! Don't get up yet. That's just not natural." (How quickly my body forgot about all those early morning marathon training runs at the Oh-Dark hundred!) So this morning, I was late for school because I just couldn't convince myself that it was REALLY time to get up.
When I was in middle school, my dad would walk me up by opening my bedroom door and turning on the light. I learned very quickly how to sleep with the lights on.
I wonder if the two are related?
When I was in middle school, my dad would walk me up by opening my bedroom door and turning on the light. I learned very quickly how to sleep with the lights on.
I wonder if the two are related?
Soap vs. spotlight
Would you rather....
leave a trail of soap suds wherever you go 60% 3 votes
have an intense spotlight shining on you at all times 40% 2 votes
----------------------------------
It was a close one this week, folks. Thanks for voting!
leave a trail of soap suds wherever you go 60% 3 votes
have an intense spotlight shining on you at all times 40% 2 votes
----------------------------------
It was a close one this week, folks. Thanks for voting!
Saturday, March 10, 2007
The Old Man and the Sea
I took my 8th grade band to Key West last weekend for fun and to play at our concert band festival. One of the kids told me "Can we go to the Hemingway House? There's a picture of my grandfather's brother in it."
I'm thinking - ok, his uncle is probably in the background of some crowd photo or was driving the boat during a fishing excursion. Instead, we get there and there is a HUGE full color painting of Hemingway and "uncle" Gregorio Fuentes." Also known as "The Old Man" Santiago from Hemingway's book "The Old Man and the Sea." Seems Ernest and Gregorio were old fishing buddies in Cuba, and Gregorio was the model for the book.
The kid had NO clue what a big deal that was!
I'm thinking - ok, his uncle is probably in the background of some crowd photo or was driving the boat during a fishing excursion. Instead, we get there and there is a HUGE full color painting of Hemingway and "uncle" Gregorio Fuentes." Also known as "The Old Man" Santiago from Hemingway's book "The Old Man and the Sea." Seems Ernest and Gregorio were old fishing buddies in Cuba, and Gregorio was the model for the book.
The kid had NO clue what a big deal that was!
Wednesday, March 07, 2007
The Family Homestead is no more!
So my mom decided to sell the house I grew up in. It's a 4 bed/2 bath with 2 garages (a 2 car attached and a 4 car detached) on 4.3 acres (wooded and on a river) in northern Illinois. It sold in less than 2 weeks for the full asking price of $189K. WHAT A BARGAIN! Friends told me I should have jumped on it. Too bad I have NO desire to move back there!
Caffeine is our friend!
Would you rather fight to the death...
Votes
100 cups of coffee 20% 1 vote
30 watermelons 80% 4 votes
5 votes total
--------------------------
I agree.....although both would kick your butt if you ingested them.
Votes
100 cups of coffee 20% 1 vote
30 watermelons 80% 4 votes
5 votes total
--------------------------
I agree.....although both would kick your butt if you ingested them.
Where I've been....
Ok, nowhere exciting. I know, I know....it's been over a week since my last post, and a LOT longer than that since my last MEANINGFUL one. Get over it. It's "Festival Season" in the band geek world and I've been up to my ears with prep work and crazy stuff. Last weekend I took my 8th grade band to Key West for concert band festival. We had tons of fun, but their performance was not that great. Oh, well...time to try something new. Perhaps a career in the fine world of refuse management.
Cleared a big hurdle on the convention plans this week, too AND I didn't quit. I thought about it a squillion times and came REALLY close. But the convention host heard I was getting frustrated and kissed some MAJOR butt last night to get me to stay on.
Got back to running again this week. D inspired me with his 30+ pound loss. I'd like to lose about 13 of my own before spring break. Of course, then it's off to San Fran with the 8th graders, Lamburrito and the gang and the food fest we always experience. YUMMY!
Since the end of the grading period is next week, I'm winding down the school year. That means summer vacation plans are in the works. I'm looking at airfare and options regularly so I can have another 6 week world tour. I'll keep you posted on that one.
Cleared a big hurdle on the convention plans this week, too AND I didn't quit. I thought about it a squillion times and came REALLY close. But the convention host heard I was getting frustrated and kissed some MAJOR butt last night to get me to stay on.
Got back to running again this week. D inspired me with his 30+ pound loss. I'd like to lose about 13 of my own before spring break. Of course, then it's off to San Fran with the 8th graders, Lamburrito and the gang and the food fest we always experience. YUMMY!
Since the end of the grading period is next week, I'm winding down the school year. That means summer vacation plans are in the works. I'm looking at airfare and options regularly so I can have another 6 week world tour. I'll keep you posted on that one.
Tuesday, February 27, 2007
note from a 6th grader
note from a 6th grade student on his practice chart today:
30 minutes of the worst sound ever, like the suffocation of a cat. So I took a hammer and unbent my slipping ligature.
30 minutes of the worst sound ever, like the suffocation of a cat. So I took a hammer and unbent my slipping ligature.
Friday, February 23, 2007
When Fortune Smiles Upon You
We had stir-fry for lunch at school yesterday. (The egg rolls were ESPECIALLY delectable!) The best part is the big box of fortune cookies. I've always found it entertaining to add the words "in bed" to the end of any fortune, hoping that when my fortune DOES become to reality (as it ALWAYS does! LOL) it will have a little extra spark.
Yesterdays fortune: A feather in the hand is better than a bird in the air. (in bed)
Translation: Kinky sex is ALWAYS better than a lover flipping you off as he leaves the bedroom.
Sorry. It's the best I could do.
Yesterdays fortune: A feather in the hand is better than a bird in the air. (in bed)
Translation: Kinky sex is ALWAYS better than a lover flipping you off as he leaves the bedroom.
Sorry. It's the best I could do.
Thursday, February 22, 2007
NY, NY
So it's official. I booked my April trip to NY to see Mer and D perform at Carnegie with their church choir. Lamburrito is going with me, since he's got a camp reunion there that same weekend. WHEEE...
and of course, in true Bing luck fashion, I booked the flight last night and then got the choir schedule today. I need a later flight! On today's agenda: change the flight. LOL! Oh, well....I'm still SO excited. I'm going to need a vacation by then.
and of course, in true Bing luck fashion, I booked the flight last night and then got the choir schedule today. I need a later flight! On today's agenda: change the flight. LOL! Oh, well....I'm still SO excited. I'm going to need a vacation by then.
Pickles and mayo
Would you rather....
be stoned to death with pickles? 100% 3 votes
be submerged in mayonnaise until you suffocated? 0% 0
--------------
I think it depends actually. Are the pickles kosher or bread and butter?
Not a lot of votes this week. I'm thinking everyone is pretty busy these days!
be stoned to death with pickles? 100% 3 votes
be submerged in mayonnaise until you suffocated? 0% 0
--------------
I think it depends actually. Are the pickles kosher or bread and butter?
Not a lot of votes this week. I'm thinking everyone is pretty busy these days!
Wednesday, February 14, 2007
What NOT to give for VD
The 10 Most Spectacularly Awful Gifts You Can Give Your Girlfriend for Valentine's Day
Wednesday, February 14, 2007
By C. Spencer Beggs
Glow-in-the-Dark Lingerie
Remote-Controlled Wind-Breaking Teddy Bear
Stripper Pole
Ridiculous Footwear
Naming a Star After Her
A Knockoff Handbag
Taser C2
A Four-Course Meal at White Castle
Chocolate Gone Wrong
A Wedding Ring
--------
Then there's MY personal favorite: Buy your wife ONE Pez dispenser and while she's happily playing with it, ecstatic over your thoughtfulness, tell her you couldn't decide between the pink one and the red one. She'll LOVE the fact that you didn't spring for the extra $1.99 and get BOTH!
Wednesday, February 14, 2007
By C. Spencer Beggs
Glow-in-the-Dark Lingerie
Remote-Controlled Wind-Breaking Teddy Bear
Stripper Pole
Ridiculous Footwear
Naming a Star After Her
A Knockoff Handbag
Taser C2
A Four-Course Meal at White Castle
Chocolate Gone Wrong
A Wedding Ring
--------
Then there's MY personal favorite: Buy your wife ONE Pez dispenser and while she's happily playing with it, ecstatic over your thoughtfulness, tell her you couldn't decide between the pink one and the red one. She'll LOVE the fact that you didn't spring for the extra $1.99 and get BOTH!
Meet my daughter Latte
Would you rather...
name your children after symptoms relieved by NyQuil (Stuffy head, Sneezing) 0%
after Starbucks orders (Double Decaf, Mocha Frap) 100%
5 votes total
name your children after symptoms relieved by NyQuil (Stuffy head, Sneezing) 0%
after Starbucks orders (Double Decaf, Mocha Frap) 100%
5 votes total
Thanks for the D+
got this e-mail from a parent today...I chuckled!
------------
Jay told me about his D+. Good for you. AND good for him. Only way to learn consequences is to get a real feel.. That D+ worked. I got to listen to clarinet all weekend..
------------
Jay told me about his D+. Good for you. AND good for him. Only way to learn consequences is to get a real feel.. That D+ worked. I got to listen to clarinet all weekend..
Tuesday, February 13, 2007
Late thanks are better than no thanks!
Got this e-mail from a retired band director today...it made me smile!
I just wanted you to know that I never appreciated the work you did getting the solos scheduled and out to the directors in a very timely fashion. I am accompanying solos again for Carmen Williams at Fairview Middle. Evaluation is Friday and Saturday and the schedules have just gotten out. I would be upset if I was still teaching. But, we never had to worry about because of all your hard work.
A belated thank you!
I just wanted you to know that I never appreciated the work you did getting the solos scheduled and out to the directors in a very timely fashion. I am accompanying solos again for Carmen Williams at Fairview Middle. Evaluation is Friday and Saturday and the schedules have just gotten out. I would be upset if I was still teaching. But, we never had to worry about because of all your hard work.
A belated thank you!
Wednesday, February 07, 2007
The Hidden Poet
A student walked into my room today and saw a quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson. "The reward of a thing well done is having done it." His response? "Is that the same guy from the 'Where's Waldo' books?"
Middle School ROCKS!
Middle School ROCKS!
Monday, February 05, 2007
You smell MAHvelous!
Would you rather have....
raspberry scented B.O. 86% 6 Votes
perfectly cubed feces 14% 1 Vote
-----------------------------
Wouldn't you rather that EVERYONE did?
raspberry scented B.O. 86% 6 Votes
perfectly cubed feces 14% 1 Vote
-----------------------------
Wouldn't you rather that EVERYONE did?
Hit me!
I judge another band Solo/ensemble festival last weekend. It's always fun because I get to work with students I've never met and help them learn new things. This weekend was a BIT questionable, however. Because I'm on the state judges list for Woodwinds, Brass AND percussion, I got to be the judge who heard a little bit of everything. Normally not a big deal, but the percussion judges rooms were packed tight, so I got the percussion overflow. Only, because there was no percussion equipment in my room, that meant I got all the snare drum solos. For 5 solid hours. It sounded something like this:
ratatatatatatatatatatatatfrrrrapBAMatatatatatadiddlediddleflamflamFLAMtatatatatatFRAPFRAPtatatatatdiddlediddleatatat...
I guess you had to be there.
ratatatatatatatatatatatatfrrrrapBAMatatatatatadiddlediddleflamflamFLAMtatatatatatFRAPFRAPtatatatatdiddlediddleatatat...
I guess you had to be there.
Thursday, February 01, 2007
I hit a nerve!
Evidently, I hit a nerve with Down The Drain. JL has posted his response there for you to read.
I'm just going to leave it at that and move on.
I'm just going to leave it at that and move on.
Tuesday, January 30, 2007
Candy corn it is!
Would you rather have...
candy corn for teeth 75% 6 votes
aluminum foil for skin 25% 2 votes
8 votes total
-----------------------
Think about it - candy corn for teeth; you're stranded on a deserted island and you're hungry. Can't find food. JUST EAT YOUR TEETH! If you had aluminum foil for skin, you be cooking alive on deserted island. Not so yummy.
candy corn for teeth 75% 6 votes
aluminum foil for skin 25% 2 votes
8 votes total
-----------------------
Think about it - candy corn for teeth; you're stranded on a deserted island and you're hungry. Can't find food. JUST EAT YOUR TEETH! If you had aluminum foil for skin, you be cooking alive on deserted island. Not so yummy.
Monday, January 29, 2007
Mile by Mile
Random thoughts about the race:
Main point of panic and concern: Would I miss the 6:10 AM start time? I had to get up at 4 AM and walk 6 blocks to the Metrorail station. There was ONE train scheduled to leave Dadeland at 4:30 and hitting every stop along the way. If you missed it, you wouldn't make the start; by that time it would be too late to drive into downtown, find a place to park and make it to the starting line. I made it, and even met a new friend. Sheila lives a few blocks from me and we stuck together, as it was our first ever race.
Starting line: At 6 AM, it was raining. I mean, RAINING. I MEAN - Tropical Storm Ernesto had NOTHING on the rain that fell yesterday morning at 6 AM as we were all waiting in the "cattle chutes" for the start. I even yelled out, "I didn't sign up for a triathalon; please don't make me swim to the start!" It broke some of the tension for some of the 12,000 people who happened to be in earshot.
Once we started, the thought of "I can't believe I'm actually doing this" hit me. There were SO many people and it was still SO dark that you really didn't get a sense of things. The first mile was up the Macarthur Causeway to Miami Beach, so you could see all of the cruise ships lit up and in port. At the end of the first mile, I felt a little winded, then realized I was pushing a 12 minute pace; a little faster than what I was used to. I knew if I didn't pull back, I'd be in trouble.
Sheila and I were having a great time, running 5/1 minute sets and talking during the walks. I actually saw some of my training group and some of my students and their parents along the way. Running down Ocean Drive and through the Deco District was awesome. The Miami Beach HS Band drumline was out playing some rocking cadences around mile 6. I told them I was writing a letter to their principal - it was SO cool that they were out so early on a Sunday morning!
I ran with my fuel belt and stayed really hydrated. SO hydrated that I did need a pit stop by mile 7. Due to the line, that stop took about 5 minutes, which was JUST enough time to get a little stiff. I had trouble getting my pace back after that, and by mile 8, Sheila had jumped ahead a bit and we lost each other. I wasn't worried as I love to run alone, but was sad that we hadn't had a chance to exchange phone numbers yet. I figured we'd catch up later, though.
By mile 9, my right knee was a little sore. One spectator had a sign that said "Pain is weakness leaving the body." I told her mine had set up camp and refused to go. She laughed; I laughed; I kept going.
Mile 10 was when I really started watching my intervals. I started getting really sore and tired and began thinking, "I'll run 1 more set, then maybe walk the rest." I knew that no matter what, I could probably run 5 more minutes. Amazingly, at the end of the 1 minute walk, I would think, "OK, just ONE more."
By mile 12, I knew I was going to make it, even if I had to walk or crawl. Spectators were saying "just one more turn to the right, and then you round the corner and then you're there!." As I got back to Biscayne Blvd, I was actually running parallel to the home stretch and was euphoric. But then I found it was a FAKE OUT! I had to take a right and go around a few more blocks before ending up in that home stretch.
I did actually walk most of the very last set, once I realized I was going to come in over 3 hours. If I'd had a chance of crossing in less than 3 hours, I would have pushed just a little more, but I saw the clock as I passed the Finish line before the fake out.
Once I finally turned into the home stretch, though, I picked it back up. Lots people were there cheering and seeing our school cross country coach on the sidelines saying "Great job!" almost made me sprint to the finish. I say almost because my legs would have nothing of the sort. Sheila was even there waiting for me - she'd finished about 20 minutes earlier!
Then I was across the line. There were people handing me a medal, food and water, saying "Congratulations!". That's when I realized it: I DID IT! At that moment, I was pondering whether I would ever want to do this again.
I started looking for the next race today!
Main point of panic and concern: Would I miss the 6:10 AM start time? I had to get up at 4 AM and walk 6 blocks to the Metrorail station. There was ONE train scheduled to leave Dadeland at 4:30 and hitting every stop along the way. If you missed it, you wouldn't make the start; by that time it would be too late to drive into downtown, find a place to park and make it to the starting line. I made it, and even met a new friend. Sheila lives a few blocks from me and we stuck together, as it was our first ever race.
Starting line: At 6 AM, it was raining. I mean, RAINING. I MEAN - Tropical Storm Ernesto had NOTHING on the rain that fell yesterday morning at 6 AM as we were all waiting in the "cattle chutes" for the start. I even yelled out, "I didn't sign up for a triathalon; please don't make me swim to the start!" It broke some of the tension for some of the 12,000 people who happened to be in earshot.
Once we started, the thought of "I can't believe I'm actually doing this" hit me. There were SO many people and it was still SO dark that you really didn't get a sense of things. The first mile was up the Macarthur Causeway to Miami Beach, so you could see all of the cruise ships lit up and in port. At the end of the first mile, I felt a little winded, then realized I was pushing a 12 minute pace; a little faster than what I was used to. I knew if I didn't pull back, I'd be in trouble.
Sheila and I were having a great time, running 5/1 minute sets and talking during the walks. I actually saw some of my training group and some of my students and their parents along the way. Running down Ocean Drive and through the Deco District was awesome. The Miami Beach HS Band drumline was out playing some rocking cadences around mile 6. I told them I was writing a letter to their principal - it was SO cool that they were out so early on a Sunday morning!
I ran with my fuel belt and stayed really hydrated. SO hydrated that I did need a pit stop by mile 7. Due to the line, that stop took about 5 minutes, which was JUST enough time to get a little stiff. I had trouble getting my pace back after that, and by mile 8, Sheila had jumped ahead a bit and we lost each other. I wasn't worried as I love to run alone, but was sad that we hadn't had a chance to exchange phone numbers yet. I figured we'd catch up later, though.
By mile 9, my right knee was a little sore. One spectator had a sign that said "Pain is weakness leaving the body." I told her mine had set up camp and refused to go. She laughed; I laughed; I kept going.
Mile 10 was when I really started watching my intervals. I started getting really sore and tired and began thinking, "I'll run 1 more set, then maybe walk the rest." I knew that no matter what, I could probably run 5 more minutes. Amazingly, at the end of the 1 minute walk, I would think, "OK, just ONE more."
By mile 12, I knew I was going to make it, even if I had to walk or crawl. Spectators were saying "just one more turn to the right, and then you round the corner and then you're there!." As I got back to Biscayne Blvd, I was actually running parallel to the home stretch and was euphoric. But then I found it was a FAKE OUT! I had to take a right and go around a few more blocks before ending up in that home stretch.
I did actually walk most of the very last set, once I realized I was going to come in over 3 hours. If I'd had a chance of crossing in less than 3 hours, I would have pushed just a little more, but I saw the clock as I passed the Finish line before the fake out.
Once I finally turned into the home stretch, though, I picked it back up. Lots people were there cheering and seeing our school cross country coach on the sidelines saying "Great job!" almost made me sprint to the finish. I say almost because my legs would have nothing of the sort. Sheila was even there waiting for me - she'd finished about 20 minutes earlier!
Then I was across the line. There were people handing me a medal, food and water, saying "Congratulations!". That's when I realized it: I DID IT! At that moment, I was pondering whether I would ever want to do this again.
I started looking for the next race today!
I DID IT!
I ran the Half Marathon yesterday....official time was 3 hours, 10 minutes and 24 seconds. There is a whole narrative that needs to follow, but I'm on my way to lunch right now. My body is in recovery (mostly my thighs!) so I must go feed it!
Friday, January 26, 2007
Tuesday, January 23, 2007
Croutons or chowder?
Would you rather....
die in an avalanche of croutons 50% 2 votes
drown in a giant bowl of New England clam chowder 50% 2 votes
4 votes total
die in an avalanche of croutons 50% 2 votes
drown in a giant bowl of New England clam chowder 50% 2 votes
4 votes total
Down the Drain
Dearest tenant,
Just wanted to let you know that I wish you would have told me that the toilet in the back apartment was running so that I could have fixed it. I just got my quarterly water bill. It is usually around $100. This quarter was $738, which I now have to pay. I'm really pretty angry, because the problem could have been solved with a $3 flapper, had you simply let me know. I'm not really sure why you are so pissed off at me and the world that you had to leave without so much as a phone call, e-mail or note. You didn't even bother to take the Christmas gifts and cards I left for you on the kitchen counter before I left on vacation.
I hope that you can remember that 16 months ago, you were homeless and unemployed. Because I gave you a place to live RENT FREE for 6 months, you were able to get yourself back on your feet. I even took you on a trip to Chicago for Christmas last year because I thought you needed a little vacation.
Last week I sent you a note to ask you where I should send your W-2 from Ferrey's. You didn't even bother to respond. If you need it, call them. I'm throwing it away.
You are in a much better position now than you were 16 months ago, but I'm feeling pretty used, abused and confused. You really make me question whether I'm too generous or just an idiot. I will tell you that I will think twice before I help another human being again. You taught me that.
Best of luck to you. I hope you find whatever you're looking for.
Just wanted to let you know that I wish you would have told me that the toilet in the back apartment was running so that I could have fixed it. I just got my quarterly water bill. It is usually around $100. This quarter was $738, which I now have to pay. I'm really pretty angry, because the problem could have been solved with a $3 flapper, had you simply let me know. I'm not really sure why you are so pissed off at me and the world that you had to leave without so much as a phone call, e-mail or note. You didn't even bother to take the Christmas gifts and cards I left for you on the kitchen counter before I left on vacation.
I hope that you can remember that 16 months ago, you were homeless and unemployed. Because I gave you a place to live RENT FREE for 6 months, you were able to get yourself back on your feet. I even took you on a trip to Chicago for Christmas last year because I thought you needed a little vacation.
Last week I sent you a note to ask you where I should send your W-2 from Ferrey's. You didn't even bother to respond. If you need it, call them. I'm throwing it away.
You are in a much better position now than you were 16 months ago, but I'm feeling pretty used, abused and confused. You really make me question whether I'm too generous or just an idiot. I will tell you that I will think twice before I help another human being again. You taught me that.
Best of luck to you. I hope you find whatever you're looking for.
Monday, January 22, 2007
Blue Monday
FOXNEWS.COM HOME > HEALTH > MENTAL HEALTH
'Blue Monday' Means It's All Smooth Sailing for 2007
Monday, January 22, 2007
Good morning, and take comfort in knowing things likely can't get any worse.
Researchers in England, citing unpaid holiday bills, rotten weather and people's realization that they likely won't live up to their New Year's resolutions, say Jan. 22 is the unhappiest day of 2007.
Cliff Arnall, a Cardiff University psychologist, devised the depressing formula.
His equation takes into account six factors: weather, debt, time since Christmas, time since failing our New Year’s resolutions, low motivational levels and feeling a need to take action.
Taken together, they calculate to equal "Blue Monday."
Arnall said that by understanding the main factors for depression, we can prevent becoming unhappy next year.
"Use the day as a springboard for a higher quality life," he told the London Daily Mail. "For example, keeping Christmas spending to a strict budget next year will make you less depressed in the last week of January.
"Also, decide on changing behavior, such as giving up smoking, eating better, exercising more and getting that new job," he said.
It also might be a good idea to be extra careful while driving.
A British insurance company reports that nearly half of all drivers suffer from seasonal symptoms such as depression and lethargy in January, which impact their driving ability.
All is not doom and gloom, however, as a survey of 85 percent of people in Britain expect to be happier in the future than they are now, a psychological study for Standard Life Bank found.
Scots were the most optimistic, followed by people in the South West, while people from London and the West Midlands had the least positive outlook on life, researchers discovered.
People responding to the survey said they hoped to make themselves happier by clearing their debts, paying off their mortgage and achieving financial security.
Those who listed things they were looking forward to were plans to reduce their working hours or retire to improve their quality of life.
For the 15 percent of pessimists and those who feel very depressed, the Samaritans organization urged people not to bottle it up but to get in touch with professional counselors who can help you resolve conflicts.
'Blue Monday' Means It's All Smooth Sailing for 2007
Monday, January 22, 2007
Good morning, and take comfort in knowing things likely can't get any worse.
Researchers in England, citing unpaid holiday bills, rotten weather and people's realization that they likely won't live up to their New Year's resolutions, say Jan. 22 is the unhappiest day of 2007.
Cliff Arnall, a Cardiff University psychologist, devised the depressing formula.
His equation takes into account six factors: weather, debt, time since Christmas, time since failing our New Year’s resolutions, low motivational levels and feeling a need to take action.
Taken together, they calculate to equal "Blue Monday."
Arnall said that by understanding the main factors for depression, we can prevent becoming unhappy next year.
"Use the day as a springboard for a higher quality life," he told the London Daily Mail. "For example, keeping Christmas spending to a strict budget next year will make you less depressed in the last week of January.
"Also, decide on changing behavior, such as giving up smoking, eating better, exercising more and getting that new job," he said.
It also might be a good idea to be extra careful while driving.
A British insurance company reports that nearly half of all drivers suffer from seasonal symptoms such as depression and lethargy in January, which impact their driving ability.
All is not doom and gloom, however, as a survey of 85 percent of people in Britain expect to be happier in the future than they are now, a psychological study for Standard Life Bank found.
Scots were the most optimistic, followed by people in the South West, while people from London and the West Midlands had the least positive outlook on life, researchers discovered.
People responding to the survey said they hoped to make themselves happier by clearing their debts, paying off their mortgage and achieving financial security.
Those who listed things they were looking forward to were plans to reduce their working hours or retire to improve their quality of life.
For the 15 percent of pessimists and those who feel very depressed, the Samaritans organization urged people not to bottle it up but to get in touch with professional counselors who can help you resolve conflicts.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
