Flu-like symptoms

Yesterday was tough. I ALMOST called in sick to school today. That hasn't happened in 6 or 7 YEARS. Then I started thinking about my schedule lately and thought I figured out the problem. Last week, I did a half marathon (with "complications") but other than a short nap and lots of fluids that afternoon, I didn't rest up and recover well. I jumped right back into the school week, walked 3-5 miles every night and stressed over school projects, grades and upcoming performances. Then I spent the weekend doing some THOROUGH house cleaning. Then yesterday I had a dental cleaning in the morning (which seems to have stirred up some germy things) and a deep tissue massage in the afternoon (more toxin things). By the time I left Doggy Middle School at 8 PM last night, I was running a low-grade fever. I felt better this morning and made it easily through the day. Tonight I went to community band but left at the break because my eyes were hot and my hair was hurting. (you know, flu-like symptoms where your whole body just aches.)

I just took a double shot of AdvoCare Rehydrate and some ProBiotic RESTORE and I'm going to bed. I'll let you know how that works out!

Dog-noramus

When we got back from Obedience School today, I took both dogs for a walk around the block. As we approached the pizza (Casola's) the corner, a fire/rescue truck pulled up and parked. As it did, the occupants thought it would be funny to flick the siren and make "meow" noises through their PA system. Guava FREAKED out and tried to pull my arm off to run back home. As the firemen were chuckling, I said "THANKS! Thanks a LOT!" They obviously didn't speak sarcasm.

I took the Pastelitos home and walked back to Casola's, saw the idiot at the counter and asked him to step outside so I could speak to him. I explained that a) my brother is a fireman b) I served as volunteer fire personnel in my little town growing up c) I'm really considering making my dogs service dogs (I think Queso might be great for search and rescue, actually) d) through his idiotic actions, my dogs are now terrified by fire trucks.

I didn't lose it, I just spoke as calmly as I could, although I was LIVID. He DID apologize and said usually when he does that, everyone thinks it's funny. I told him to please think before he does anything like that again. Hopefully he will.

Puppy Middle School

I started Guava in the Intermediate ("Middle School") level of obedience school today. She TECHNICALLY has one week of Puppy School left. She has to officially pass the "test" - Look, sit, stay, down, leave it and drop it. Queso passed with flying colors on Monday and Guava is actually more compliant, so the trainer said to go ahead and start Middle School this week. Queso starts on Monday.

Today we learned wait and heel. She got both commands right away. She has to miss next week because I'm judging. In fact, they're both going to miss Week 2 and Week 5. We'll have to schedule "tutoring" to make it up! How funny.

I just found out that if they become registered therapy dogs and work 10 times per year, they become tax deductions. I keep telling them they need to get jobs; now they can!

March could be a problem month

So as I referred to in my last post, it's "funky" time again. I wondered if subconsciously I was bracing myself for an "anniversary" of some sort...then I checked previous posts from about the same time and found this....

The Bing Blog: March is NOT my favorite month

Coincidence? Doubtful!

Going down the rabbit hole

The last few days have been rough. There hasn't been any MAJOR drama or situations to make it so, but it just feels like the start of one of those downward spirals I seem to experience every so often. I have a lot on my plate and there are major deadlines at work. This is also the time of year where we start counting down to Spring Break. I just hope I caught it in time and can find a way to get back on track and avert a real funk. That would really suck right now.

Reflections on a Sunday

I DID do the half marathon Sunday. I'm glad I did and am looking forward to the next one, whenever that may be.

Good
- my time was better than the last
- I'm not too tired/sore today
- I had fun

Rough
- the course went over the Julia Tuttle Causeway and back. Two LARGE bridges to go over. Each way. Starting at mile 6.
- the monthly visit from "Aunt Flo" started in the middle of the race

After I crossed the finish line, I walked across the street and went to church. My pastor's wife helped be get situated and recover. It was a little rough, I won't lie.

BEST
- While I was listening to Pastor Robert teach, I noticed the couple sitting behind me. I'm not certain, but they appeared homeless - we get many of them from time to time. Remember, South Beach is decadence, disparity and disciples all living together. They were quite dirty and had ragged clothes. I saw a HUGE scab on his arm. It looked like he had burned a peace sign into his forearm. When Robert made a comment in his message about helping the homeless and addicted, she piped up with her approval. During the final moments of the service, Robert asked anyone who didn't know and trust Jesus to come forward and just let Him in. What an amazing moment when the man behind me did. He looked broken and at the end of his rope, but I've been praying for him all week.

Another half

So I was on such a high after finishing the last half marathon, I went ahead and signed up for another one. Which is tomorrow. I had already decided it was a "fast-walk" race since I didn't train well this season due to my summer injury. I felt really good after the last one but didn't train as much as maybe I should have. Still, I finished with a time that was not too much off from previous years. Plus, as I said to 2 teachers who ran it HARD (one half and one full) and then couldn't walk right for a week - "Yeah! That's the difference between you and me. I KNOW I'm not going to win, so I'd rather just finish and be able to teach without pain the next day."

Tomorrow is more of the same, although I've done a lot more distance to get ready. In fact, I walked ALMOST every night this month, at least 3 miles but often more. I've dropped an insignificant amount of weight, but since I've been stalled out for so long, maybe I'm kicking myself off of my plateau.

The funny thing is - when I STARTED this post, I was really not looking forward to tomorrow and was weighing how guilty I would feel about wasting the entry fee if I just slept in and skipped it. 15 minutes later I'm loading up on pasta and getting ready to call it an early evening. The race starts at 6:13. Wish me luck!

Hope deferred

Proverbs 13:12 "Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life."



Discuss!

Center of the Track

A friend once said that in life, there is such thing as good times or bad but rather that they co-exist in parallel like train rails and your perspective is dependent on the rail on which you choose to focus.

I've felt times in the past where the train just jumped the track and life was completely out of control.

I think it's more like driving a car. You focus on the center of your line rather than the lane markings.

Right now, it seems as though I'm in Kansas driving west, which in case you didn't realize, is VERY flat and the road and rails are VERY straight. The ride is smooth and automatic. It's almost like driving on cruise control. The problem is that sometimes when you're on auto-pilot, you don't pay attention to the little curves in the road until you suddenly realize you're off-course and then you steer to overcompensate and crash.

Or worse, you hit Colorado and those mountains come at you from out of nowhere.

I'm praying for more Kansas, although if there is an amusement park, I'll stop for a few roller coasters.

Delight/Desire

Psalm 37:4 "Delight yourself in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart."

This was part of my study today and although I've read and heard it so often, I stumbled over it this time.

I'm learning in puppy school (as are the dogs) that when they do what I'm asking, they hear the click and get the reward that they desire. This works much easier when I know they are focused on me and they know that I have the clicker and the treat bag handy. Queso will THROW himself into the "down" position before I even ask, since he knows that's what we're working on this week. That immediate submission only happens with treats in hand, though. I have to reinforce the behavior until they follow the command not because of the reward, but because it is so ingrained in their nature that to not "Sit" when told would seem wrong. If I need them to obey (for their own safety or the welfare of others) and I don't have treats, I need to know they'll do the right thing.

Unfortunately, we often treat God like a vending machine. We misunderstand Psalm 37:4 to me "If I do everything right, He'll give me what I want." I've found that to be a struggle because even when I think I'm following what He wants me to do, there is no clicker and definitely no treat bag. At least, not full of the things I desire.

I have to get to the same point that I want The Pastelitos to be at: complete submission due to ingrained nature, not because of anticipated rewards.

So much for that idea

I thought that I could make it a point to walk at least 3 miles every night for the month of February. I'm doing another half marathon on March 1. I'm still not ready to run full out, but can walk like last week's race. I knew today was going to be tight on time to get it in, but then my right foot/ankle started acting up. While I can't decide if it's swollen or not, I do know for a fact it's throbbing, tingling and at times a bit numb. This makes the second day in a row. Perhaps it's time to buy new shoes to wear at school. Perhaps it's time to call the orthopedic surgeon. It's a parent at school. I have their cell number.....

Choosing your gifts

At church last Sunday, we were in prayer and when I lifted my head, an older man came to me and said "You're going to have a great week. God is telling me that good things are going to happen." I was gracious but skeptical, of course.

Right away, I start imagining what might happen, MY interpretation of what a good week would look like: I meet "the one," my AdvoCare business starts to soar and money starts rolling in, I get an unexpected windfall that will wipe out all of my debt, I'll get a call from the doctor that yes, that extra 40 pounds I'm carrying IS indeed a benign tumor that can easily be removed with no visible scarring, yada yada yada.

It's amazing how when someone tells us they have a gift for us we right away start trying to predict what that might be. Then when we DO receive it, we're often disappointed because it isn't what we'd hoped for. It's a perfectly good gift; it's just not what WE wanted. Sometimes the gift is even BETTER than we could have imagined but we can't see that through our tears of disappointment.

God's gifts are the same. Our prayers are for one thing and He provides us with something else. Ultimately, His gifts are better because His plan is better. I just need to stop making my list and be happy with His.

Truth is, that is MUCH easier said than done.

She didn't "friend" me?!

I know that most if not all of you are on Facebook. I know because you're on my "Friends" list. In spite of being highly addictive, it's such a great way to stay in touch with everyone. Nobody is going to call me (and 231 of their closest "friends") to tell me what the weather is like, what they had for dinner or when school is canceled. It's a big deal to you in the moment, but not something you're going to tell everyone you know. Unless you're on Facebook. Then you do. Weird, isn't it? Still, I think people stay connected through the "little" news so that it's easier to help work through the "big" news.

Found out today that my mom is on Facebook. Found out because she's on my sister's friend list.

I DID send her a friend request. Now the mouse is in her court!

Family Stump

My mother is not the most tech savvy person on the planet. In fact, she's what you call a techno-peasant. She's not afraid of technology like a techno-phobe. She's just not that familiar with anything that has a faster processor than....oh, I don't know, an armadillo perhaps.

So imagine my surprise to a) receive an e-mail from her that b) had a link to a genealogy website that c) she had entered our family tree into.

Too bad that the one piece of information she managed to enter for ME was someone I shared 9 years and a last name with but who was "pruned" from the tree over 10 years ago.

I get that it's family history, but seriously...do we HAVE to go there?

DIVERSIFY!

I read an article in today's local paper that shocked me. There are 3 major family foundations in Miami that lost LARGE quantities of money by investing with Madoff.

What I find most interesting is that one foundation "had $32.3 million -- virtually its entire securities portfolio -- with Madoff at the end of 2007." Another had "about $4.9 million, all but $361,000 of its stock portfolio, with Madoff as of May 31, 2007."

Both families are from our school community and their family foundations have contributed large amounts to our many campaigns. The last donation that comes to mind is the $1 million for our new media center that bears the family name.

I may only have a fraction of that amount in my portfolio, but even I know that you don't put all your eggs in one basket and then let someone else carry the basket for you.

It'll be interesting to see if the school suffers any damage from "unmet" pledges. We've "raised" almost $20 million for our Capital Building Campaign in the last 5 years. The buildings are built; now let's see if they'll be paid for.

Honor Code or Gifted?

Guava doesn't start school until next Thursday. She is everything that will be covered since she's practicing with Queso. I wonder if I can have my dog tested for Gifted. Or I wonder if it's considered an honor code violation, like knowing what's going to be on the "pop" quiz?

Puppy School and the Four legged foodie

Queso started "Puppy School" last night. Guava starts next week on Thursday. I'll be spending 2 nights a week for the next 8 weeks at Petsmart. We got there a bit early and met some of his classmates. There was an adorable 2 month old beagle who, while standing on his hind legs, came up to Queso's eye level. The beagle (Pasquale) kept chewing on Queso's ear and crawling all over him. He didn't do anything back; he just sat gently while the puppy played. He's only 4 months old himself. Now THAT'S a good dog! I get them comment about The Pastelitos all the time; they are really well-behaved and happy dogs. In public. At home, it's another story. Actually, they ARE good dogs but sometimes I forget they are just babies and I have to keep my eyes on them.

The first class is about how to load the clicker, which is what you use to signal "good job" when the dog does something right. To load it, you have to pair the sound with a treat. To demonstrate, the trainer tried to use the beagle: "When Pasquale takes the treat, I click so he knows to associate the clicker with a treat." When she tried, Pasquale was SO not interested in the treat. She moved on to an overly picky-eater Shitzu; same problem. I raised my hand and said, "Queso will eat it." And so he was the star. My dog is a foodie. How appropriate.

Hang With The Happy To Be Happy

Researchers have discovered happiness is not solely dependent upon oneself, but is partly dependent on who we surround ourselves with. Hanging around with happy people as well as having a larger social connection is associated with being happier. It appears that happiness rubs off on others you're around and the more happy people you're around, the more likely you are to be happy and the happier you are. Researchers even went as far as to quantify happiness. According to their statistics, each happy person you have social contact with increases the odds of being happy by 15 percent. On the other hand, for each unhappy person you have social contact with your odds of being happy are reduced by 6 percent. Since happiness is associated with reduced mortality, reduced pain and improved cardiac function, it seems important to surround yourself with happy people!


Author:ChiroPlanet.com
Source:Reuters: December 5, 2008.
Copyright:ProfessionalPlanets.com LLC 2009

What was I thinking?

They've chewed on walls, they've severed a lap cord, they've marked up the new furniture, they force me to get up at 5:30 AM, they cost money, they keep me from leaving for the weekend on a whim, they don't listen.....

They are so cute, they are hilarious when they play, they are sweet when they're tired, they kiss my face, they're excited to see me, they make me want to leave work and go straight home every day.

Perhaps if I'd only gotten one. Perhaps if they weren't going to top out at over 60 pounds. EACH.


Not sure I really thought this one through, but in spite of it all, I think I'm happier with them than without them.

One Place

If you haven't discovered One Place, get there now. (It's ok...click the link. I'll wait here until you get back)
........

SEE?! Isn't it cool? Hindleg shared it with me a few years ago. I was looking for a new "Bible in a Year" reading plan so that's where I start my day now. Plus being able to listen to almost any ministry message at the click of a mouse button makes it a fabulous place to get lost for an hour or so.

Try it!

New Year, New Perspective

I was in Tampa for the All-State Music convention this weekend. I was not in the mood to go, nor did I have to as I had no students participating for the first time in about 12 years. (That's another story). It was nice not having to worry about a student/parent there, so I did plan on attending quite a few clinics. I managed to get to about 6, all of which were really outstanding. I'm feeling ready to get back and roll up my sleeves tomorrow.

The best part was the number of people who kept asking me what I was taking/doing to lose weight/tone up/look younger. No less that 10 people made specific comments (rather than the standard "You look great!") about how I was achieving such great results. What an ego boost. Gotta love AdvoCare! (and YES, I told them all EXACTLY what I was doing! Hope they will all try it soon.)

God said "Make Music"

Psalm 98:4-9 - God said "Make Music"

He surely expects beautiful harmonies to come from instrument and voice. Remember His expectations when the piano is out of tune, the drummer can't keep a beat, the conductor is crazy, everyone else is flat, you have the wrong music and your solo just started without you.

Going manic

This was a conversation between a friend and her grandson, who is 7.

Grandson: "I just need to go manic for a minute."
Grandma: "Well, do it outside."

-------
That made me giggle a lot!

Knuckleheads

I often worry when people go on and on about how much they love their pastor; it sometimes borders on idol worship. It also sets one up for disappointment when the pastors "human-ness" shows through.

That being said - I love the fact that Pastor Robert regularly refers to people as "knuckleheads" in his messages. It just makes me chuckle when he says "knucklehead."

Don't invalidate me

Let me be unhappy, let me FEEL. To do otherwise is to invalidate who I am.

Blood

If blood is thicker than water, how thick is SPIRIT ~ the essence of who you are?

The Bucket List

I have The Bucket List here, ready to watch when I get a chance. I was going to watch it last night, but put in Expelled by mistake. It was way too late and I ended up falling asleep - I'll watch them both later this weekend.

Still - I'm planning on writing my own Bucket List once I'm done with the movie. Have you written yours?

Clean Slate, Clean Plate, Clean Date

The beauty of New Year's Eve is that it feels fresh and new. Everyone walks around thinking "THIS year is going to be different." The funny thing is that most people don't take the steps needed for that difference to actually happen. Change is hard work and all of the wishful thinking in the world isn't going to make a darn bit of difference if you don't put in the effort. It's like Dr. Tim says "It's not what you COULD do or WOULD do that matters, it's what you DO do that counts. You've got to do the DO do."

I hate it when I "should" on myself. Most of the time, I just don't think it through. I end up "shoulding" over something I don't really want in the first place.

My New Years Resolution is to stop "shoulding" and to start "doing the DO do."

MangObama

I took the Pastelitos to The King Mango Strut today. There were tons of people, lots of loud noises and many new smells. They got lots of attention since everyone who sees them has to stop and tell me how adorable they are. They behaved like champs, even going to sleep amidst all of the noise.

Pardon me, but you're standing on my tail

Last night, I went to a game night with friends. I took The Pastelitos along (with permission first, of course) because I've read that exposing puppies to as many different people and situations as possible before they are 16 weeks old makes them very well socialized. They are 15 weeks old today.

There was also a 10 month old baby there. I was a little worried that they would want to play too roughly, but they behaved wonderfully. At one point, they were both asleep in the middle of the floor and the baby was crawling all around them. All of a sudden, Queso lifted up his head and looked at the baby with a bit of concern. I looked down and saw that the baby was STANDING on Queso's tail. He didn't yelp, he didn't nip, he didn't even whine. When the baby got off of his tail, he went right back to sleep.

I've got the best Pastelitos in the world!

America Alone

I've done quite a bit of reading over the last months. Library cards are AWESOME! I just realized that I didn't post information about America Alone by Mark Steyn. I have quoted the premise of this book to so many people in the last few months that I need to put it here. I highly recommend it!

On my own time

One of the opening illustrations that Stephen Covey uses in his GREAT book The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People is that we would all be happier if time would just stand still for awhile so we can manage all of our tasks on our own time schedule. Imagine picking up task and being able to respond to it from start to finish without the pressing needs of everything else in your world.

That's what winter break is for - my days now consist of picking up one thing at a time (e-mail, chore, project, whatever) and spending as much time as needed on it until I can cross it off of my list FOREVER!

For the larger tasks, I set the timer for on hour. When the bell rings, I pack it up and table it for another time. When I think of something else to do, I add it to the list. (Lists are a great friend; electronic lists on my PDA are the greatest friend in the world!)

My goal is to get all of those "New Years Resolutions" about finishing projects done before New Years. Wish me luck!

Christmas Recovery

I'm feeling the benefits of staying home for Christmas: I'm not in "recovery" mode! I did get to see friends and family in Chicago the weekend before, but was home in time for Christmas Eve service at church. Christmas Day brought lots of quiet time, reading and reflection, doggy playtime and phone call greetings. It was a lot less stressful and I can feel how much more relaxed I am in the days following. I'm actually looking forward to another week of vacation time and have lots of projects/goals to catch up on with all of my free time!

The Next Mozart

I've decided to clean out my e-mail files and found a cool video from a long time ago. Unfortunately, I can't upload it, but here's a weblink showing you this little musical genius! Enjoy!

This time was different

An entry in the journal of the 7th grade Dean:

Dean: Jonathan, Mrs. Gonzalez said that you were throwing a paper airplane in class on Monday and that she asked you to stop.

Jonathan: Yes, I know.

Dean: And she wrote you up on Tuesday for throwing a paper airplane in class again

Jonathan: Yes, I know but I threw it for a different reason this time.

A Very Pez Nativity

Heard at the dog park

"WOW! Look at the size of those paws!"
"They are going to be HUGE!"
"You have TWO of them?!"
"You're going to have your hands full!"
"They are SOOOOO cute!"

Your Brain on Music

I just finished "reading" This Is Your Brain on Music by Daniel Levitin. I use the word reading loosely because it is a very scientific book with lots of big words and not very many illustrative stories. My attention span couldn't take it - oh, look! A chicken!

There were TWO good quotable spots in the book, however.

1. on page 132, he discusses memory retrieval and perceptual completion, or how we often "fill in the blanks" of memories with gaps. He uses the retelling of a dream and how the transitions between parts of the dream are not always clear and that we can't help but fill them in. That isn't the cool part; the example of the dream he gives is: "I was standing on the top of of a ladder outside listening to a Sibelius concert, and the sky was raining Pez candy..."

(Do I need to go on?)

2. on page 230, he discusses Raffi, Barney, and tic-tac-toe. "When music is too predictable, the outcome too certain...we find the music unchallenging and simplistic."

To illustrate: "Suppose you're hitchhiking....you may be willing to tolerate a few shortcuts, especially if the driver is friendly, believable and up-front about what he's doing. (If not), your sense of safety is sure to be violated. Some react with sheer panic ("That Stravinsky is going to kill me!") and some react with a sense of adventure...("Coltrane is doing something weird here, but what the hell, it won't hurt me to stick around awhile longer, I can take care of my harmonic self and find my way back to musical reality if I have to.")

Now THAT'S funny!

Things heard around the house today

1. No!
2. Electric cords are not a chew toy!
3. NO!
4. My shoes are not a chew toy!
5. NO!
6. Furniture is not a chew toy!
7. NO!
8. I am not a chew toy!
9. NO!
10. Good dog!

Whatever you ask for.....

If any of you out there really want something, just tell me. I'll pray for God to give it to ME, and then YOU'LL have it in no time. That's kind of the deal He and I have. Put your requests in NOW so you'll get your heart's desire by the holidays!

Who's training whom?

Guava and Queso are 9 weeks today and growing FAST. They got their shots a week ago, and they had both doubled their weight in the 2 1/2 weeks I've had them. I started crating them separately at night last week, and yesterday I separated the crates. Last night was whiny, but tonight, they are doing better. I took them both into the pool briefly today - didn't think THAT one through! It was all good until they got out and decided to roll and play in the dirt. THEN I had to give them both a bath, which involved me getting into the tub to calm them down. They were pretty mad at me afterwards, but by dinner, all was well. After dinner, I took them out to the backyard one at a time and worked on some commands. As long as they are alone and I have food in my hand, they can come, sit and lay down. We're working on "stay" next. Can't wait for you to meet them!

Training

Training 1 puppy = hard work
Training 2 puppies simultaneously = insanity

Training 1 human = piece of cake. Signed, the puppies.

The Butcher AND the Baker

In case you get bored, this might come in handy.

When push comes to shove, it's not how it looks as much as how it tastes. OK, it's a LITTLE bit about how it looks.

Don't let their names fool you!

They may be named after my favorite pastelitos, but they are far from sweet and flaky. Just kidding - they are BEYOND cute, especially when they try to tackle each other. They are 6 weeks old today!

Meet Queso

Meet Guava

Maybe he doesn't like bacon

I saw this headline the other day and simply laughed out loud. Try using this excuse to your pastor as a reason you missed church.

Homeless in Miami

I was in the car with my new housemates (tenants sounds so formal) as we were returning from a Bible study cook-out. We passed a man begging on the street and talked about times we've encountered other homeless beggars and offered them food, not money. Sometimes they are grateful for the food. Sometimes they want the money.

They told me two stories that were sad but still a bit funny:

1. They met a man who claimed he was hungry and hadn't eaten all day. They offered to take him to McDonald's or the local pizza joint and buy him a meal. He told them he would rather have sushi at the high-priced joint down the street.

2. There is a restaurant on that same street that gives away all their leftover food at the end of the night. It will even "make to order." There is a woman who goes there every night and is very specific about what she wants: "I'll have the pasta alfredo with chicken, but hold the garlic."

ONLY in Miami!

I've got a lovely bunch of coconuts

Here's an e-mail exchange between Techno-Chick and myself from last night:

On Oct 18, 2008, at 7:59 PM, Techno-Chick wrote:

Techno-Chick:
Paula Deen just made this. It's made from coconut and covered in chocolate, so naturally I thought of you.


Bing:
BEYOND EXCITED! Just watched some youtube videos on husking coconuts. I can now do it quite easily! No tools needed.

What form do you want your coconut in at WIBC?


Techno-Chick:
Hmmm... I'm sure coconut ice cream or piña coladas won't meet the FAA's restrictions for what you can take on the plane. What are my other options?

Bing:
Ahhhh....but if I bring you fresh coconut MEAT, you can make your OWN coconut ice cream or pina coladas.


Techno-Chick
Mmmmmmm! FRESH MEAT!

Bing:
We're still talking about coconut, right?

Is there a doctor in the house?

Last night, I spoke to a parent who started the conversation with "Did he tell you what happened to his horn?" That's never a good sign.

Seems as if little Bradley was playing his French horn at home and something sounded/felt weird. Somehow it was determined that PERHAPS a marble had become lodged in the instrument.

Mom is a doctor, so she took it to work. A gastroenterologist there used a pediatric endoscope to determine that YES indeed, there was a marble in the horn. A red marble to be exact.

After some professional discussion, a tech at the office thought it might be a good idea to use compressed air sent through the mouthpiece to try and dislodge the offending orb.

No injuries were reported as the marble shot out the bell and across the room.

6th grade Fashion Sense

Punchline set up #1: Today was a dress-down at school. Kids could wear something OTHER than school uniforms if they paid $5 for a charity that we support. The teachers enjoy this as well, as we can dress down as well. It doesn't take much to make us happy. Wearing jeans to work once in a while makes me happy.

Punchline set up #2: My students are now all well-versed in my Pez addiction. I've been receiving new items for the collection on a weekly basis.

And the finish.....a conversation with a 6th grader today:
Student: You have a Pez shirt? (note the question mark at the end of that phrase)
Me: (perplexed): Why yes. I do!
(I was wearing it at the time)

I'm bleeding on the inside

This was an actual conversation in my classroom yesterday:

Student: Can I please call my mom?
Teacher: Is it an emergency?
Student: yes
Teacher: what is the emergency?
Student: I was supposed to get my average sheet for science signed and I forgot.
Teacher: Go look up "emergency" in the dictionary. If you were having trouble breathing, were bleeding profusely or losing large quantities of other types of bodily fluids uncontrollably, THAT would be an emergency. And then we call 911.
Student: I'm bleeding on the inside. My heart is hurt because I forgot.

Jesus on the Beach

My church had a 15th anniversary celebration yesterday. It's situated right in the heart of South Beach, probably one of the most "unchurched" areas of Miami, which is the 2nd most "unchurched" city in America.

We met at the Lincoln Theatre, where the New World Symphony performs. It holds about 700 people and was PACKED. It was amazing to feel the spirit at work.

I ponder what Pastor Robert said about people who have trouble being Christians in their day to day life, about having to "put their faith on" in the secular world. His response was "Don't put it on. Just don't take it off!" So true, so true.

We had a guest pastor actually teach. Robert wanted this event to be an evangelical outreach and he felt Pastor Pedro is a much more gifted speaker and would be more effective at harvesting what the church has planted. (I have to admire Robert for being able to hand over the microphone at such a time; his humility is a great model.) Pedro brought the house down while talking about the troubled times we live in and the uncertainty of our country's financial future. His response - "Jesus is my bailout plan." What an awesome statement!

Robert sent an e-mail today and there was one section that I thought summed it up:
"It was also a special night because of all the family who returned to celebrate the milestone with us! ..............But one of the real highlights for me was to see Bob. Bob was homeless when we met him 14 years ago on Lincoln Road. God moved radically in his life here at CCMB and for the past 10+ years Bob has been living in Ft. Lauderdale with his wife in the house they bought together, and attending CC Ft. Lauderdale.

Bob is a reminder that, as you've all heard me say before, Jesus would gladly spend my entire (and yours) life to rescue one man from eternal separation from God. If it cost me everything and took all my days and all my strength in order for Bob to be rescued from the wrath to come, Jesus would have considered that "wise stewardship of His resources". Thanks for coming last night Bob."

Robert used that same comment that "Jesus would spend my life to rescue you." in a sermon a few months ago, and that stuck with me. My life is not my own to spend. Jesus is spending it for me.

How awesome is that!

The Wisdom of Enzo

I just finished reading "The Art of Racing in the Rain" by Garth Stein. It is definitely one of the most amazing books I've ever read, about a dog named Enzo and his car-racing owner Denny and their life together. I have sobbed heavy tears for the past 24 hours since finishing it. Why can't we all be like dogs?

Both Denny and Enzo often say that "The car goes where the eye goes." While they were specifically talking about car-racing, it struck me in church that it applies in all aspects of our lives, especially when following Jesus. Our lives go where our hearts and minds go and if they aren't on Him, we are going to fly off track.

Seriously - read this book.

Sheila says....

from Jimmy Buffet's "Don't Stop the Carnival"....

Sheila says the heart is just a muscle
Sheila says the heart is cooled by time
Hiding out for years down in these trade winds
In the land of coconuts and limes

I've played this game for too long
My life's just one same old song
Now marooned for a time on this island
I go into and out of the fog
and that's why I live with my dog

Men, oh men, oh men, I've known too many
deceivers cloaked in clumsy vanity
What men lack in love and understanding
they make up in stupidity

But now and then one comes along
and lights up my world like a song
I am tempted to unleash my interest
Yet I put it to you, man's best friend
There's just one sad old way it can end

We have our faults
but men have only two
all that they say
all that they do.

You're a joy and a friend and a guardian
Never bored with my sad monologue
You're better off with a dog

Through with rehab

I ended my self-imposed 3 year electronic detox today - I got cable/internet at home again. I have new tenants who moved into the back apartment (that's another long story that will have to wait) and they really needed Internet for work (or addiction) so I agreed. I had to get a $5/month cable package to get the $20/month Internet, but my tv is so old, I can only get two channels. There's no way to program the tv to accept the cable directly, so I either need a cable box or a new tv.

I'll just add that to the list of other things that don't work around this house lately!

My Cabana Ministry

The cabana at my house USED to be an efficiency apartment. I've rented out almost 15 years of the 17 years I've owned the house. There have been more than a few tenants who moved in as an emergency situation and settled there while they straightened a few things out. (and one that never did, but he left anyway, thank the Lord!)

Anyway, I was at my Crown Financial Bible Study last Thursday and there is a young married couple there. They have an apartment on Miami Beach that they've been in for over a year. Long story short - it's time to renew but they are really having doubts due to the neighborhood, landlord, finances, etc.

I offered them the cabana, so they could take their time making a decision about where to go if they really didn't want to stay where they are now. They are moving in on Thursday, and plan on staying through December.

Isn't God amazing? I have space, they need space.....

OUR school has a caterer!

This was the memo regarding the menu for our "gala celebration" to celebrate the new artificial turf and stadium lights on our Upper School football field: (I'll try to find the photos of the halftime fireworks display and post them later.) The food was GREAT, but I don't even know what half of this stuff IS!


A Cocktail Gathering…

upon entering the gymnasium,
the guests are lured by…

Blue & Green Specialty Cocktail Bar

…a made-to-order selection of
classic & modern cocktails including…

the “blue margarita”
( gold tequila, fresh lime juice, gran marnier & a splash of blue curacao )


the “mojito”
( a cuban blend of rums, lime juice, fresh mint & sugar poured over ice )



servers move through the crowd with tempting trays of…

Butlered Hors D’oeuvres

mini “takeout” of pad thai

jumpin' honey-seared lemongrass shrimp

baby artichoke with chèvre,
black olive tapenade & sundried tomato

rustic pizzetta with
chorizo, manchego & romesco

cowboy slider

nantucket mini lobster roll

Cocktail Stations

Mezze

turkey shwarma in pita
offered with fresh cucumber, roasted eggplant,
red cabbage, shredded carrots,
harissa, tahini & tzadziki

fresh mint cous cous flecked with cashews

lemon tabbouleh with sweet tomato, onion & parsley

grilled eggplant, fire-roasted peppers
& marinated artichokes

feta, cucumber & tomato salad
with fresh mint

garlic hummus with baby vegetables

vegetarian dolmas

kibbeh

sesame breads

Bistro

citrus & spice braised short ribs
with creamy mushroom dolce polenta

salt roasted bosc pear & roquefort salad,
toasted walnut relish, lolla rossa lettuces
&
port vinaigrette


pissaladerie niçoise

a tart of caramelized onion & niçoise olives



Sushi Bar



sesame seared petals of tuna

sashimi of
tuna, salmon, snapper & white tuna

edamame

dancing eel roll, salmon rolls, vegetable rolls,
tekka maki rolls, california rolls
& popeye rolls

wakame seaweed salad
with yin yang sesame

asian vegetable soft spring roll
with soba noodles & shiitakes

peanut ponzu,
soy, wasabi & pickled ginger


Butlered Sweets

key lime buttercream cupcake

miniature blueberry & kiwi fruit trifle

grasshopper “milkshake”

miniature gelato cones
of pistachio & vanilla

miniature chocolate volcano


RE-laxation Lounge

… cushiony creamy couches rich with pillows
combine with elegant mahogany coffee tables …
flanked by side tables & cabaret lamps
in an elegant, yet bohemian style
offer a tranquil escape…

My kind of dog

God's smiling today

Welcome to Middle School Boy Behavior

This was an actual e-mail exchange between me and the parents of one of my new 6th graders. They both teach at the high school so I know them well. This is their only child, so mom is not quite versed on middle school boy behavior yet:

E-mail from me to them: We’re sitting outside in concert band today because the air is out in the band room and it’s stifling. I told them to take a study hall. The boys are all teaching each other how to make animal noises instead. Your precious one came to tell me/show me how talented he is at making fart noises with his armpit.

You are SO in the bell curve of normal 6th grade boy behavior. Isn’t middle school AWESOME!

Dad's response: Tooting sounds and bathroom talk are forever funny if you’re a guy. Humor always gravitates to 5/6th grade level.

Mom's response: Oh my GOD! He really needs to learn appropriate/inappropriate behavior for the situation. I know that he’s pretty competent at the flatulent noise, but we have talked about where it’s ok to do that – and where not. SO SORRY!! How do you stand them all day long?????!!!!!

Then I saw Dad after school. He just shook his head and said "Yeah. Mars. Venus. They really DON'T understand each other."

That's definitely a story worth re-telling.

Darwin was right!

Just plain stupid! Repeat after me: "Tropical Storms and Hurricanes are NOT playmates."

Ear Candy

David Byre and Brian Eno just finished a new collaboration "Everything that happens will happen today."

Enjoy!

TRUE worship

One of the reasons I left my previous church was that the new worship/music director preferred to work with professional musicians as it made rehearsals easier for him. Membership to the church or even belief in Jesus was not necessary. Meanwhile, members of the church with lesser talent (including myself) were left with nowhere to serve.

I've been attending my new church's Wednesday night service lately. The worship leader has his two girls (ages about 9 and 7) playing in the band. The pastor's 14 year old son is playing guitar, right next to the adults. The older little girl is playing piano and is growing more confident in her beginner technique. Meanwhile, the littlest one looks like "Little Miss Sunshine" and plays a MEAN shaker while singing her heart out. The band sounds awesome - if you closed your eyes, you wouldn't know the kids were there.

THAT, ladies and gentlemen, is what worship should be!

Tropical Triple Threat

I'm not sure if it's a record, but Gustav just hit, and now Hanna, Ike and Josephine are lined up like airplanes on a runway. Those folks at the The National Hurricane Center are MIGHTY busy these days.

I may just put the shutters up this week and leave them up until December.

The BBQ Song

The Mayor and La Fleur (from Georgia - Go DAWGS!) always say that a BBQ and a cook-out are two entirely different things. This little ditty should clear it up.

Psalm 23 for the Work Place

The Lord is my real boss, and I shall not want.
He gives me peace, when chaos is all around me.
He gently reminds me to pray and do all things without
murmuring and complaining.

He reminds me that He is my source and not my job.
He restores my sanity everyday and guides my decisions
that I might honor Him in all that I do.

Even though I face absurd amounts of e-mails, system
crashes, unrealistic deadlines, budget cutbacks, gossiping
co-workers, discriminating supervisors and an aging body
that doesn't cooperate every morning, I still will not stop---
for He is with me! His presence, His peace, and His power
will see me through.

He raises me up, even when they fail to promote me.
He claims me as His own, even when the company threatens
to let me go. His Faithfulness and love is better than any bonus check

His retirement plan beats any 401k there is!
When it's all said and done, I'll be working for Him a whole lot longer
and for that, I BLESS HIS NAME!!!!!!

Now THAT'S a dog!

Techno-Clown sent me a link to something I might like, since I've been considering getting a new dog.

It doesn't seem very cuddly and affectionate to me.

Wildlife in Peril

Wildlife conservations are concerned after seeing this photo.


Animals that were formerly self-sufficient are now showing signs of
belonging to the Democrat Party... as they have apparently learned to
simply sit and wait for the government to provide for their care and
sustenance.

Not THAT kind of weird

Tonight's bible study was about Psalm 1 and how we're supposed to stand clear of the non-believers; in the world, not of the world, etc. First, I love that when my pastor was trying to describe "delight" he used Divinity candy as an example. He described them as "sugar shaped like a biscuit." He also said he "delights" in them like Jesus "delights in us." (Remember, this is the man that said God gave us taste buds so we can enjoy tiramisu!)

Then he talked about Christians who say they are more comfortable around non-believers because Christians are weird. He said (I loved this part) "DUH! We're SUPPOSED to be weird. Not, like, FROOT LOOPS weird."

I think I've finally found a church that feels like home!

What NOT to wear!

I saw these T-shirts for sale recently. I didn't buy any, but that's only because I"m on a budgget and already have more shirts than I can possibly wear.

"It's not a complex. You really ARE inferior."

"I can't remember if I'm the good sister or the evil one."

"Wait a minute. I need to put on my 'Gosh. I really care' face."

Celebrity Deathmatch - Idol Edition

If you've never seen the irreverent MTV2 show Celebrity Deathmatch you should. It's a Claymation parody/fantasy of two celebrities in an unltimate fight to the death.

I don't know if they've done this match-up yet, but I would love to see the American Idol edition of William Hung vs. Sanjaya Malakar.

The Boy Wonder

We had a band director meeting yesterday and when it was done, I went to a favorite watering hole with 3 of my favorite directors: Mary Poppins (who has a huge purse with anything you could ever need in it) and "The Georgia Rejectors" (husband/wife team who thought moving to Georgia might be a good idea, then thought better of it a year later). The Rejectors son "The Boy Wonder" was there as well.

After lunch, Mrs. Rejector and Boy wonder came back to play in the pool. She told me a few HI-larious stories about Boy's first day of school: (He's in 3rd grade)

1. The teacher was telling the students the rules and expectations of the class. She turned around and Boy was kicked back in his chair, his feet on the desk and his hands clasped behind his head. Evidently he is VERY confident about starting 3rd grade!

2. Again, her back was turned and when she turned around, she found that he had taken the tennis balls from the bottom of the chair legs (placed there to prevent scratching of the floor, etc.) and placed them over his ears.

She also told me a story about how the family was out shopping and she and Mr. were trying to decided which to buy for the Boy for Christmas: a Wii or an X-Box. They figured they would take him to the store, let him play with both and see his honest reaction to each.

As he was playing with the Wii, he suddenly threw the controller on the floor and announced, "I have to go to the bathroom!" which was immediately followed by "Oops. I just did!"

The Wii wins. If it can hold his attention stronger than his bladder's urge, it must be good.

This Just In...

Just released from PEZ USA is the new
Disney Fairies Series.

The first three characters released
are Fawn, Tinkerbell and Silvermist.

More Fairies are scheduled to be
released over the next year.

The unique iridescent wings are soft.

The set of all 3 Disney Fairies is $9.95,
sold MIP.

////////////////////////////////////////

PEZ USA also just released 2 new Pez
characters for the Winnie the Pooh
series - Buster and Darby.

Buster and Darby will soon appear in the
new TV show "My Friends Tigger & Pooh."

These two new characters are sold as
a set of 2 for $8.95, MIP.

////////////////////////////////////////


You can see pictures and order at:

The Burlingame Pez Museum

Food on a Stick

Sometime, somewhere I saw a list for "Food on a Stick" available at the Minnesota State Fair. Not sure I'm game for any of these:

Teriyaki ostrich
Corned beef and cabbage (yes, ON A STICK!)
Gator
Spaghetti/meatballs/garlic bread (Deep fried on a stick)
Deep fried Spam curds (even if these WEREN'T on a stick, it'd be interesting!)

Schoolhouse Rocks, old school means new

I went to an "end of summer" celebration for a summer school program that my school hosts. I was amused by two original musical selections there:

One was about algebra and was sung to the tune of Y.M.C.A.:
"It's fun to graph using Y=mx+b"

The other was a science tune. The hook was:
"D to the N to the A"

I still wanted to hear a little "Conjunction Junction" but alas....

Now back to your regularly scheduled blog

I have 3 choices in order to blog as regularly as I used to, now that my work location has officially "blocked" social networking sites.

1. Pay for Internet at home again

2. Blog by phone

3. Continue paying for T-Mobile Hotspot (MUCH cheaper than home service) and hitting up the Starbucks in town whenever I can.

As much as a pain #3 can be sometimes, I think it's actually the better option because it gets me out of the house with a purpose. We'll see how that works out.

How's the weather? How's life?

Well, I think that this is the 3rd or 4th year that we've lost teaching time BEFORE Labor Day due to tropical weather. Tropical Storm Fay blew through here yesterday and today and our first two days of school (orientation days, actually) didn't happen. Monday we were supposed to dedicate the new community center (read: gym) so now that has to be rescheduled. We're on for tomorrow, but I have NO idea what we're doing, nor am I going to great lengths to figure it out. I'll deal with it when we get there. This year is going to be a hectic one, as I'm teaching 6 instead of 5 classes, and they are periods 4,5,6,7,8,9 with no break, followed by clubs/lessons/parking lot duty until 6 PM. I'm off 1,2,3 so I'll have to eat lunch 3rd (at 10 AM). The extra duty pays $7K, so I look at it as this: the school is paying me to lose weight! No more grazing in the cafeteria!

My other hope is to get as much done as I can during my 3 planning periods and go home at the end of the day. No late nights in the office! With no convention and fewer home repairs (don't get me started on the roof leak in the cabana!) this could be the year I actually get a life!

We'll see!

In Shock

As I mentioned yesterday, I had lunch with a group of teachers I used to work with in the public school system. After dining, we went to my house to sit and chat. One of the ladies passed away suddenly this morning.

You just never know.

more travels in store

I made a last-minute decision to go see Songbird perform in Santa Fe this weekend. I have a squillion airline miles, so even with the last-minute booking fees, a ticket to her performance and the shuttle to get me from the airport in Albuquerque to Santa Fe, the journey is only $175. Plus I'm staying with her - saving on hotel.

I can easily spend more than that in one weekend at home!

Conservative Judaism

I had lunch with my Jewish mother today. (because even Christians need one.) We used to work together and now she lives in Vegas. She told me a tale from her synagogue that had me in hysterics, although she was more confused than amused.

She teaches at the synagogue and helps with their drama department. For Purim this year, she prepared a little play with her kids but was upstaged by the Neil Diamond impersonator that they hired to sing "They're coming to America." Then she told me about the Mexican rabbi there. I promised I would not use his real name, but suffice it to say that it was something very similar to "Fernando Goodstein." She goes to the Torah class that he teaches and she was surprised when he left out parts pertaining to homosexuality. While she does this herself because she's a Reformed Jew (which means she chooses what to believe), she questioned why a Conservative Jew would do the same. He said that as long as both partners are Jewish, keep Kosher and honor the Sabbath, it's ok.

I chuckled to myself. I wanted to ask if it was ok to murder or steal if you keep Kosher and don't do it on the Sabbath.

I LOVE liberal logic!

Lucy Ricardo Reincarnate

My mom is a certified dingbat. Remember how last year she sent my birthday e-card early, but it said, “Hope you HAD a great birthday” and then sent me a PAPER card in the mail that arrived 6 weeks late because she put the wrong address on it and it got returned to her because she couldn't find my address even though I have lived in the same house since 1991? Tonight I called to ask her for her neighbor/best friend’s phone number. She gave it to me. It was wrong.

Electronic dating – what it says and what it means

One night, Songbird and I were having a “guy” discussion. What we’ve figured out is that evidently, when posting a profile on an online dating site, things get translated into “guy” speak, which we don’t understand. Through our research, we have come up with a sort-of translation dictionary. It has not been edited for accuracy, but if you’re a guy and want to weigh in, you are more than welcome:

Profile says: I want someone to watch ESPN and snuggle
What it means: I’m into one night stands and kinky sex.

Profile says: Looking for a nice normal girl
What it means: I’m into one night stands and kinky sex.

Profile says: Looking forward to great conversation
What it means: I’m into one night stands and kinky sex.

This was actually my favorite quote from Waiting.

"So, you know when you’re walking past a group of people, you hear them laughing you sometimes get that paranoid self-conscious feeling? Maybe they’re laughing about you when they’re really not? Well, in your case, they really are."

Sometimes, that is SO true!

The advantages of senility

It was movie night on Friday and Waiting was the "view du jour."

This scene made you laugh and cry at the same time. It was also one of few that had no obscenity.
-------
Monty: How are you doing today?
Customer: Oh, I’m slipping gradually into senility
Monty: Really, Do you consider that a good thing or a bad thing?
Customer: Well, it’s a mixed bag. It’s good in the sense that I can take walks in my underwear. I can give small children the middle finger. But as long as I look happy while I’m doing it, people just assume I’m senile.
Monty: Yeah, so what’s the bad?
Customer: Well, sometimes I give small children the middle finger and don’t realize I’m doing it until someone slaps me. So I really am going senile.
Monty: Alzheimer’s can’t be all that bad. You get the chance to meet new people every day.

REAL family time

I came back from Orlando late Tuesday as I had lessons to teach on Wednesday. As of this morning, Dave is still with us. He had a "rally" day on Tuesday, up and out of his bed, in a wheelchair, eating cheetohs and singing with friends. Now I guess he is sleeping more and more. I pray that he's not in any pain and that he slips away quietly surrounded by family and friends.

While I was up there, I spent an evening with Songbird's parents. They have an empty nest while she is in Santa Fe singing with the opera. Her brother recently re-enlisted, so they enjoyed having a "youngster" in the house. We went to dinner, then sat home and talked about life and everything - something that my own family doesn't do easily. The next morning, we had breakfast and watched some tv. We all laughed when Sesame Street came on and for once, her dad didn't channel surf. We watched in non-stop. It's been a long time since I'd seen it, but it's hipper than I remember. Then we balanced things out by watching Jerry Springer and Price is Right (channel flipping, of course. They were on at the same time.)

I felt home!

Peace that passes all understanding

I'm in Orlando for the weekend. I'm visiting someone who is in his final days of a 4 year battle with brain cancer. His faith has been an example to all of his friends, and yet everyone is struggling to grasp it all. As awesome as God is, we all want to know why Dave has to go, leaving a wife and 4 year old daughter.

I visited his church this morning (my "church away from home") and his pastor spoke of Dave's story during the message. He equated it with Moses and the burning bush. He said that since the bush didn't burn in a way that it normally should, it caused Moses to really take notice and look more closely at the situation. God was in that bush. In the same way, he said that in Dave's situation, God is there and it's causing us all to look more closely rather than just walk away.

He also reminded us that God is in the flame, not the vessel. It was a burning bush, not a mighty oak or a redwood tree. He will use us no matter how big or small we are.

I'm getting a slap of perspective this week. It's painful, but I get it.

Notes for family gatherings

Or at least MY family. I found this website today and the first page alone made me laugh out loud three times!

Summer Fun

I haven't blogged in quite some time for a few reasons:

1. I was exhausted after "Band Camp."
2. Buster is in the laptop hospital again.
3. I'm now working summer camp at school (counselor for grade 5/6/7 boys; ALWAYS fun!)
4. Blogger is usually blocked at school. Well, it is if I log in as myself. If I log in on a generic school library account, I can go EVERYWHERE!
5. My niece came to stay with me for two weeks and attend our school summer camp.
6. My niece left after 6 days because I'm incapable of properly caring for a 10 year old. (Who is not used to hearing the word "no.")
7. Now I'm supposed to go visit the entire fun-loving family for the weekend and pretend like nothing happened.

I'll keep you posted!

YES!

Need I say more?

and the finish!

MORE surprises

Since it didn't all fit on the last post!

The birthday surprise

Since it was a milestone birthday (40) a GREAT friend who USED to go to band camp but doesn't have to anymore decided to SURPRISE me and drove up 6 hours or so from San Jose to spend a few hours with me on my birthday. We had lunch and then he drove home. Isn't that AMAZING? Gotta love him. Oh, and he brought me a gift bag full of treats. Hope you laugh as much as I did!

Bacony Birthdays

I am SO lucky because I get to spend my birthday at Band Camp every year, and every year, the camp staff finds very interesting ways to help me celebrate. This year was no exception. Here is what the staff got me this year. If you've been a faithful reader, you understand my obsession with all things bacon and it will all make sense.

Is it worth it?

As you may now, my beloved computer Buster took another bad tumble when a student knocked it off my desk. I just asked for a quote from PowerBookMedic.com and they said to replace the Superdrive, the DC power supply AND the bottom tray would cost $453 + shipping and I could have it back in 3-4 days. While that seems like a lot, I just checked The Apple Store and a NEW 13" MacBook with SuperDrive starts at $1300.

I really love Buster and I'll miss him while he's in the 'puter hospital!

Video games hit a new high (or low...)

I was just alerted to THIS tasty piece of information. Sales are sluggish now, but just wait until these band geeks get back home to their Wii.


(PS - this isn't real)

An little itty bitty USA

One of the benefits of BDSAC is that I get to meet new directors (95 or so newbies this year) from all over the country. Today I had a conversation with one from Arizona, who mentioned a hilarious story about going to a function and hearing the Arizona state balladeer (who knew?) sing a story he wrote called "Amerizona" which is now the official state song.

Dancing Machine

Due to extreme boredom, exhaustion and lack of interest in doing anything productive, I'm clearing out my e-mail inbox. I found this website to be incredibly appropriate.

Almost there....

I have one more day of Band Director Sleep Away Camp. Right now, I'm monitoring the C session Instrument repair class and getting high from all of the chemical fumes. I need to inventory the percussion equipment that didn't sell and make a note to the Big Boss how much we owe the music dealer. I also need to do laundry and start packing. What I WANT to do is sleep for about a week straight. Wish me luck!

My "big" birthday was last week and I received quite an assortment of toys and gifts. I'll take some photos and post tomorrow. It'll keep you entertained for quite some time.

Good manners will take you far

Here is a handy little website that will help you with all of those awkward social situations.