Christmas Day Part 1

So far so good. Christmas seems to get better every year. For the first time in my life I was able to afford to give my parents a nice gift. My sister and I pitched and gave them money to take a trip to Toronto for a long weekend ...and included a case of Labatt Blue and a really pretty ornament with the skyline of Toronto. I got a kickass coffee pot from my sister that grinds for each pot. A Brighton breast cancer awareness bracelet and the Until There's a Cure bracelet from my mom (am I the walking charity??) and an iriver from my dad which totally rocks. (Similar to iPod, but it can hold pictures, files yada, yada, yada ...and no extra software to install with it.) Off to my grandparents. I will update more later.

Who's having the best Christmas ever?? Me.

Christmas Break Is Here!!

Hooray! Christmas Break is here!! Not a minute too soon either. It's actually amazing how fast the school year goes. Today was day 76. Only 104 to go. Being that we test pretty much the middle of March through April there aren't that many more good instruction days left. I'm making a New Year's resolution to not stick to my manuals and to not be the ordinary teacher. I let go of my manuals the last two weeks and got so much more accomplished. I had hard time giving my kids the benefit of the doubt that they could learn in other ways. I guess I felt that because their behavior was so bad...that they needed more work. Not the truth. I got so much more out of them by having them write one paper. (Yes, 4th grade CAN do this.) I also had a lot less stress trying to cover every page. And, I'm actually covering more material. Anyway...I'm glad to have this break to look back to see what I've accomplished and also to relax.

I am in the Christmas spirit because it was snowing and cold (the other day) and today we also sang Christmas carols. We teachers did the motions to the Twelve Days of Christmas. So funny. Even the men (or boys) got into it. I think it's nice when the kids see teachers being crazier than they are. In any sense, we had a good time. I even brought Neville to school today. By the looks of him now, he had a good time. I know though he's glad to be home, too. They broke into his daytime nap.

Well, now off to my union party and to celebrate and let loose. I'm sure there will be much more consitent blogging now that I'm out of WallyWorld.

Deep Creek

Went to Deep Creek, MD this past weekend. Our condo, Caddyshack was absolutely beautiful. It was really nice to get away and to be with friends. Because there had been no snow (except for the blast we got Sunday) a few of us girls opted for the spa treatment instead of the ski treatment. I chose to indulge and schedule a facial and a hot stone massage. The facial was okay...I've had better. The hot stone was just what I needed. I serioulsy started drooling and at that point I was laying on my back. At the end the only concern I had was whether or not I was going to be able to actually get up and get dressed. I had almost wished I would have scheduled this women to come to the condo so I could have just rolled over and gone back to bed. I'm definitely going to have to indulge again.
The rest of the weekend was filled with some partying and game playing: wine, food (lots of it...ugh!) poker, trivia, euchre and scrabble ->in which I so nobly fell asleep during. The wine just hit me too hard.
In any sense it was a great weekend with great friends. I even ended up with a 2-hour delay on Monday. Perfect! I would love to tell you more about it, but I have been so freakin' busy I don't even know what to do first. However, I am in the Christmas spirit more so and I did buy a piney-Christmasy scented candle. (Thanks Robin!)

I'm So Lame

I wish I had time to blog, but I'm lame. I just can't seem to find the time. Yet, I'm not doing anything productive either. Busy at school, but also can't get motivated. I cannot wait for the lovely Christmas break that teachers get. Honestly, we totally need it. I'm fucking whooped.

Looking forward to the weekend. I'm heading to Deep Creek with some friends and I've even managed to schedule a massage and facial. I haven't had either in over 6 years, so I felt the need to splurge.

Anyone not in the Christmas mood? I just can't seem to get there this year. I also sympathize with Robin this year for New Years. I never usually dread New Years, but this year I am. I'm looking forward to being with friends but the whole anticipation of it....what to wear, where to go and who to go with (i.e. will I have a date?)

My Christmas cards are pissing me off, too. I've spent literally the past month trying to get a good picture of my dog. That fucker...I swear he knows exactly when to turn his head!

Well...if anyone has any Christmas mood elevators, let me know.

Color Personality Test

Here's a fun test. It's a color personality test. It tells you what colors you should use to decorate your home and there is a section where you can use your color palate to virtually decorate your room. Fun stuff...and if there is a test on the net, I will take it. Thanks to Robin for the test!
You set yourself high standards, driving yourself hard to achieve your goals but at the end of a hard day, you need to retreat to a place where you can reflect and re-energise. That place is always home. Your look is pale, modern and relaxing, a gentle setting in which you can rediscover your equilibrium. You love the simplicity of contemporary design but by adding luxurious textiles from curtains and cushions to bedding and throws you can soften the edges of your modern look to create a true haven of tranquility.

I know I've been pretty boring and lax on my blog, but I've been so busy!!

New Year's Resolution: More Blogging...and more writing in general.

Flu Attack of the Mac

Friday I got the flu. Gross. That's what I get though. Thursday in school I had a mini barf-o-rama. One student threw up, then another, then another. The initiator of the puking (started during lunch) is a chronic puker. I was tired of sending him home as I had done 3 times in the week prior. And, the other is a repeat offender of "I don't feel good. Can I call home?" Such drama for 4th grade boys. (I know this sounds cruel, but if you are a teacher you'll understand.) Anyway...I gave out the "You know what? I'm not going with this puking crap again. You're going to stick it out today. Get your book out." Now truthfully, I don't believe they were sick. However, the flu is fying around school -as always. Yes, at 4:30 AM I woke up with horrible stomach cramps and by 7:20 I was puking. Damn kharma!. I did go to school at 8:00 to get some things ready for a sub and was out the door by 8:50 to puke some more and literally sleep all day. I'm still recovering today. I seriously dont think I've had the flu since 5th grade. I certainly haven't thrown up since then....well at least a non-alcohol induced boot.
The good thing about being sick is that no one will bother to ask you to do things like clean or move and you also get to catch up on some random movies. I got to see LOTR: Return of the King again, Goodfellas for the first time (I know, pathetic) some other random shit and my second Macaulay Culkin movie of the week. Yes, of the week. Over Thanksgiving break -Deer Monday to be exact- I watched Saved and then today I watched Party Monster. Both pretty good. Saved was hysterical and Party Monster was pretty good as well. Could the Mac be back?
In any sense, I'm semi back to normal. I did manage to put the Christmas trees up today though I didn't decorate them. I was/am most concerned with saving my strength for brunch tomorrow at the Cheesecake Factory with the girls. Can't miss my gossip time!

Why Are You Still Single? Test: Tickle.com

So I'm bored and took another Tickle.com test. If you're single, take this one.

Molly, you're single because you don't want to commit

Once the blush of first love wears off with your partners, do you get a little antsy? You probably crave excitement in all realms of your life, and you need a relationship to keep you filled with possibilities. Let us guess: Someone has probably told you that you haven't quite grown up yet, that you're still holding out for the perfect "whatevers" (job, car, home, date) in your life to come a knockin'. Or perhaps you're just having a difficult time accepting that your comfortable little place in this world is always growing, always evolving — and that means you have to be willing to accept big life changes, too. Not that there's anything wrong with that. After all, you're probably a lot of fun to be around and may be the life of the party.
But when it comes to settling down, you leave without looking back twice. Now's the time to ask yourself: Why? What's holding you back? Maybe you don't want someone to get to know you fully? Perhaps by saying "yes" to someone, you're afraid you'll lose yourself, or the possibility of something better coming along. Just remember that the best relationships are those that never stop growing. That's something you can identify with, right? So keep that in mind next time you find someone you're really comfortable with. You never know, it may prove even more exciting once you really get to know each other, teensy flaws and all.

Are you kidding? Maybe I was onto something in a prior entry. I am ...

Poll For the Day-Part Deux

I like the "Poll for the Day" idea- especially since I had such a good response. Therefore I will try to continue the idea daily...well at least once or twice a week.

Poll for the Day!
Julia Roberts twins names "Hazel" and "Phinneas" Yay or Nay? What would you have named them?
(I'll post my answer in the comment section.)

*Side note. Where my links are posted are other blogs from friends of mine. Most of them too have links of other blogs. Take a chance and read some of their links. You might find something interesting. I would like to link some of the ones I read to my blog, but I feel like I would blog stalking or "blalking." (Did I just make up a new internet lingo term?? Oxford's Dictionary, here I come!!)

**Ken is no longer on Jeopardy. Once again we can wonder who will win.

No Jeopardy for You!

Can you believe it? Ken Jennings is done! The 2.5 million dollar man has been defeated. Unfortunately the surprise of it was ruined by my sister telling me...though really ruined initially by Howard Stern. I used to like listening to Howard but got really sick of the "show me your tits" "have you ever made out with a girl" "will you let Beetlejuice get you in the ass" skits. (tangent)
Anyway...I thought it was quite befitting for the first round of Jeopardy to be all Seinfeld references and the last category of clues with "Jerry, Elaine, Kramer and George." While I was initially impressed (and still slightly) with Ken's knowledge of pretty much everything on Earth -not so bad for a Mormon kid....he even got a few alcoholic drink clues at one point- I was glad to see him go. I'm all for the best person winning, but it would have sucked to go up against him. "Ah, shit. At least with the neurophysiology I had a chance. Not Ken!" Back to the Seinfeld reference...I believe this would have been a great character on the show. "J/E/K/G" would have wanted him gone. He probably could have been right up there with the Soup Nazi.

*So hard to go back to work...UGH!! 15 1/2 more school days until Christmas break. 129 more days left to the year. Monday I was actually thinking about what book I might read this summer and what time I would get up to fit in a walk and swim. Yeah, I'm focused.

Poll for the Day: Making the First Move: Man or Woman's Job?

What is your opinion on women making the first move? What would you want to say or what would you want to hear?

Comments are welcome and highly encouraged.

Thanksgiving Wrap-up

Well Thanksgiving is over and I'm ready for Christmas. Not ready to go back to work, though. I love the first day of deer season in Pennsylvania. NO SCHOOL!! It's lovely to have Thursday through Monday off. I did a lot partying on Wednesday on and saw a lot of old faces. It was nice actually. Also got almost all of my Christmas shopping done (while convienently picking up a few things for mom and dad to get me, too.)

Congratulations to my friends Renee and her husband Ryan. They are pregnant and due sometime in July. Amazing. I remember meeting Renee on the bus in 7th grade. She came from catholic school and my bus route had been changed. I can't believe she's going to be a mommy! Well, there couldn't be anyone more perfect. Congrats to you three: Renee, Ryan and Baby!

I need to play the lottery tonight. Beyond obvious reasons the other night I dreamt about going to buy tickets and the cashier screwed up my numbers and played different ones. I wrote them down as soon as I got up. I never play the lottery so maybe this will be my chance.

I am going to try to get the tree up today as well as wrap all my presents. This will be the Neville's (the dog) first Christmas. He likes to tear into things...here's hoping that he doesn't open all the presents.

*There will probably be many posts today.

The Vote Is In: I Choose Foe

Thanks to all of you for all of your wonderful and supporting comments (thru blogger and email.) However, I choose foe. I know that sounds crappy, but the night unfolded into days of me being pissed off and feeling resent. The long short of it was that my "foe" called the next day (after I called to check on her) and said she "was fine and thank you for helping her. But....she didn't have a problem with drugs anymore and because I was there, she didn't do them." Okay, I say to myself. Cry for help. Then I find as the day/night and next night trickle on she has proceeded to tell two of my friends "I guess Molly and I aren't friends anymore. She called AA on me and called me off of work for the next day."
Okay...now fuck off. Don't make a fool of me when you were the one (literally) begging for help. All I have to say is this. Fool me once, fuck you. Fool me twice, fuck me. So instead of fucking myself, I choose Foe. Cruel, but hey...she's a big girl. You want to talk big? Get yourself out of your own mess. I have bigger fish to fry.
I'm done now. I will no longer talk of this. I'm writing her off as of now. (Strangly enough I was at the same point around this time last year when I felt like writing people off. Damn, it still feels good!)

Friend of Foe

What do you do when your friend is drug addict? I have a friend right now that is admittedly addicted to cocaine. What do you do? Well up until 1 am tonight, I've tried intermittendtly to get her into a rehab or at least talk to someone at some point this evening. I've been crying since at least 11:00 pm and am tired of this. I don't want my friend to die. I don't think she'd overdose like a John Belushi. She's much too smart for that. However, I believe she'll die a slow death like one of a junkie on Whatever Avenue in Bethere City, USA. It's aweful. One, as many people around town have told me she was still into coke, I stupidly believed her. Though, I willingly accepted her apology and confession to try to stop tonight and get help. After 2 hours of battling with her, I'm done. I can't hack it any more. I left her an open phone book of addiction counselors and I will call her parents tomorrow. I don't care if she hates me. It's a duty I have to do.

From a number of things today and just recently, I've learned that I will always speak my mind. I once was asked in an interview, "How would you best describe yourself?" I responded with,

"What you see is what you get."

I will not falter from those words.

To be or not to be Catholic...That is the ante.

Saturday night I went to a Cash Bash. For those of you not familiar, a cash bash is a "fundraiser" of a sort. Tickets are sold kind of like a lottery. You have a 3-digit number on the bottom. The ticket was $20 which included my chance to win $500 on each hour, $300 on each 10 minute and $4000 at the end of the night. (7pm-11pm) It also included a buffet of usual Hunky wedding food and all the beer you can drink. Where do you ask this gala of events is held? Right in the basement of Saint Mary's Church. Amidst the sea of blue hair and canes, I found one of the 3 groups of young people. While you're sitting, eating and drinking duos of elderly women and men come around selling tickets and before I knew it I'm shouting, "Dolores! I'll take two more of the Mary Pop Open tickets!" I played a Keno type game where an 80-year old was viciously running the table and taking my money. (So that's where my social security is going!!)
What amazes me most is that this is held in the basement of a Catholic church to raise money for the church. Hmm. Now correct me if I'm wrong, according to Catholicism you are not supposed to use birth control, abort fetuses (or should it be feti?) or divorce among another number of sinful acts. However, if you would like to gamble, perform glutton-like eating and drink beer, just make sure the profits go to the church. Here are some other ways for what church going people call "sinners" to get by with doing their "sinful" acts.

1. If you would like to have an abortion because you were unlawfully impregnated or whatever reason you choose to, please make sure that you tip your local parish 10% of the cost of the procedure. *If you are a physician, please donate 15% of the cost of the procedure.
2. If you need to get a divorce, hire one of the nuns to be a stenographer and Father Fred to be your lawyer. If it is a custody battle, pay a couple of the altar boys to be stand ins so your children don't have to witness any unnecessary banter.
3. If you "choose" (great choice of word, eh?) to be gay promise that you will not come to church and "embarrass" the Catholic community, however, you will donate a healthy portion of you paycheck to buying the priests the porn they need to quit doing the unmentionables that have been going on with you-know-who. (See 2. for that one.)
4. If you would like to get married, but you are not a man and woman, agree to donate a portion of the bridal dance funds to fans for the pews and tissues next to the holy water.
4. If there are any other "sins" that you would like to commit that the Catholic church would not approve of, sign a waiver that commits you to literally PAY for your sins. Ex: $10 for taking communion even though you didn't confess ALL of you sins in the booth.

Although I thought the whole thing was really Hippocratic on the fact that this was sponsored by and held in a church, it was pretty fun. Though, I didn't win shit.

Idiot

I'm now one of the people I make fun of. After school I ran to the bank to cash a check. There I am filling out my deposit slip, on the phone etc..."picture of a bad driver," right? Down the road the phone rings. It's my mother. She says, "You have the tube." I said, "What?" She repeats. I repeat (even more confused.) She then says...through laughs, "YOU HAVE THE TUBE FROM THE BANK. They called." Yep, there it was on the passenger seat of my car.

I'm an idiot.

Productive High

I was so productive today. Being that I can't get my ass to gym after school, I decided to bite the bullet and head out in the morning. Today I got up at 4:45, packed my clothes for this morning and got to the Y by roughly 5:15. By 6:45 I swam 1500 yards, showered, dressed stopped for coffee and signed in at school. I even beat the principal there. It was so nice though. No one is there...no disturbances or reasons for me to put off my work. I've finished lessons for half way through the week after Thanksgiving, made my copies up to next week and even corrected some papers. Shit...I even made my bed this morning and had lunch ready as well. I had much more energy and didn't feel as emotionally drained after school. I've said before. I love the pool for the main reason that it forces me to shut up for a period of time and relax. Even though I'm swimming hard, it's definitely relaxing. I'm assuming it's similar to that "runner's high" that people get (and I still have never experienced.) I also went to look at a car today. No deal. I really was all set to buy it. Basically an upgrade from my Passat. However, there were some things wrong with it and personally, I think mine rides smoother. I'll just continue to drive my baby for a few more years. It's in pretty good shape. I guess I'm just itching for a change of scenery in something. A move perhaps? Please!!! Calgon, take me away! So, instead of buying a new(er) car, I opted for a better deal of $10 Nike gym bag and $31 Bandelino black boots from Value City. God, I love that place. I got that "bargain high" that I definitely know about. Now off to bed. Being that I have been so productive, maybe I'll be able to make a big dent in one of the 4 books I'm trying to finish. Goodnight!

*Side note....at Value City tonight they had a huge clearout from some of the drug stores. Some good deals on professional hair products: Crew, Matrix, etc. Anyway, while looking through the hair products I see some deep conditioning kits. As I look closer I thought, "no that can't say...oh my god it does!" The deep conditioning kit was "Placenta." Um, totally gross. I seriously thought it was a Saturday Night Live skit.

Not SoLoner Movie

I went to see Bridget Jones this weekend. So good. And, I ventured by myself. Now my sister prefers the movies alone. Me...ehhh?? I had made a rule that I wouldn't go to the movies by myself anymore, but lately I've been breaking a lot of my standard rules. I made this prior rule because of the first two experiences.
1st: Went to see Divine Secrets of the YaYa Sisterhood. UGH!! Total disaster. I had just moved to Richmond (still in pissed off mood because I was emotionally forced to move) and being it was a friendship movie...yeah. Going alone - not the most uplifting thing.
2nd: In between interviews last year I thought, well I'll go to the movies. So, I hit the cheapies and saw Identity. Okay...not a great movie, but totally jumpy. ANDDDDD...I was by myself. Well almost totally. There was one other person in the theater. By the end I had come up with my own movie about the other person in the theater killing me, stuffing me in the 3rd row (because no one sits in the 3rd row) and no one finding me until hours or even days later. I wouldn't be able to call anyone because I'm one of the few people who actually read the "please turn your cell phone off" warnings and would have bled to death while trying to turn on my phone.
At this point I had written off solo movies. With all the girls being too busy to go and a good feeling none of the boys would go see this chick flick with me, I ventured down to the Waterfront to catch the film I've been so eagerly waiting for. It was sooo packed in there (except for the third row.) So I sat between a couple of girls and another solo flyer and enjoyed my movie. I didn't feel so alone however because the girl next to me kept talking out to the movie. Normally this would bother me, but she pretty much was just verbalizing the thoughts in my head. If I would have been there with a friend, this probably would have driven me nuts. However, it was kind of amusing. There actually were a lot of solo flyers that day in the theater as I left. I guess really I wasn't alone in going alone.
Lesson learned: I will continue to see movies alone...however, no scary movies. I still have nightmares about that afternoon.

Briget Jones Quiz

In honor of Bridget Jones, The Edge of Reason opening tomorrow, I took the "What's your Briddget Jones Moment?" quiz on www.Tickle.com.
And the results are...

Molly, your Bridget Jones moment is Putting Your Foot in Your Mouth

Your mouth is moving but your brain is begging you to put a sock in it. Sound familiar? When the guy you admire approaches, does it seem like you always fumble for something witty to say, and succeed in blurting out a dorky or offensive remark instead? This is your specialty.The good news is, your heart-felt apologies, desperate back-peddling, and prolonged blushing reveal your inherent charm. Your heart is certainly in the right place, and your earnest nature makes you completely lovable. Until next time, at least.

No Hoodies in the Champagne Room

I don't know why I'm still up at 11:30, but I am. Another day of parent/teacher conferences and I finally got back in the pool after the sick bout. I only swam 1500 yards, but I was happy that I did it in 30 minutes. Anyway...some older man started BS-ing with me about "how long did it take you to get in shape to do that?" Um....13 years and correction....I'm not in shape according to the time I did it in. So, I gave him some pointers on technique and went about my way right before he started to ask something else. Hey buddy. I'm here to blow off some steam and think. It's the only time where I can't talk and no one can talk to me. This is my time. I love that time, too. It's very relaxing to be able to be completely secluded by an element. Strange, but true.
Tonight I met my long-time friend Stephanie for a drink to catch up and shoot the shit. We had a good time. I plan on introducing her to my favorite cheap wine tomorrow and continue our conversation. No school on Veteran's Day so I can relax tomorrow night.

One other thing...
Today in school an announcement was made over our loud speaker by the principal. "Attention Junior High students. There will be no more wearing of coats in the classroom. Coats must be stored in your lockers during the day, not worn during classes. You may still wear hoodies. Hoodies will be allowed during classes."

All that came to mind was that the next announcement might be "THERE IS NO SEX IN THE CHAMPAGNE ROOM. SURE, THERE'S CHAMPAGNE IN THE CHAMPAGNE ROOM, BUT YOU DON'T WANT CHAMPAGNE, YOU WANT SEX, AND THERE'S NO SEX IN THE CHAMPAGNE ROOM. NO MATTER WHAT THE STRIPPER SAYS, THERE'S NO SEX IN THE CHAMPAGNE ROOM."

I at least thought it was funny.

And...shout out to Dan for listing me in his blog title. I'll have to think of something sultry for you.

Good Times

So I fixed the whole viewing the blog thing...and I just looked down at my dog who is sleeping next to the computer desk. He's been into tearing apart his toys lately. I just looked down and he's sleeping amongst the stuffing of a little, puffy dog's head. I guess the weekend was just too much for him.

I had a great weekend. I took my first sick day ever on Friday. I did take a 1/2 sick day last year for a routine doctor's appointment, but this one was truly a sick day. Good thing, too. I headed to the doctor on Friday. Diagnosis: Bronchitis. While waiting for my Rx I wandered around Wal-Mart and noticed two of the laziest and most ridiculous things.
1. Pre-made PB&J sandwiches in the freezer section. Are you kidding? The whole point of PB&J is that it's easy and cheap. Now it's just easy(....hmmmm...that's rings a bell for some reason?)
2. "Meatball Magic" This is a contraption straight from an informercial that is basically a platic container divided into small square sections that you turn upside down and press on top of a pile of ground meat. If you are serioulsy that stupid that you can't divide meatballs into equal sections, you have a problem. Meatball Magic for me would be one that would make and bake itself without being blown off of Ol' Smokey by a sneeze.
*I also noticed that the average age in Wal-Mart around 10 am is about 72. Still busy...does that place ever stop?
Well, the sick day was well spent on the couch. I zonked for a little while and caught up on talk shows and Days of Our Lives. I've been watching that show for about 20 years and Marlena has died once again. I think I'm going to start taping and watching. I really miss that crap and...I can't afford TEVO, DVR or the Soap Channel. I was kind of bored though without anyone to talk to all day. Sick isn't it? Unfortunately, now that I have to go back to work tomorrow, I don't feel like talking to anyone.
Saturday I ended up in New Castle for friends' birthdays. We had dinner and went bowling and Karaoking. I haven't been bowling in a really long time...it was pretty fun. I think that bowling should be brought back as the new in thing to do. One...it's really cheap. Two...it's an easy way to get a large group of people to interact. At bars it's too hard to be able to talk to everyone. And, you can drink there...except for me this weekend due to antibiotics. Yes, I gave it a trial run on Friday when I wasn't going anywhere. 3 glasses of wine and I woke up and the house looked like a hurricane went through it.
Now it's Sunday and I'm dreading the work I have to attend tomorrow. Though, it's pretty home free at this point until after Christmas. Two 1/2 days this week for conferences (in which I'm secretly hoping no one shows up) and no school on Veteran's Day. Then the holiday shuffle of days and activities.
I guess this is enough rambling....I try to make these interesting, but because I lost a day of interaction with people you'll have to hear my happenings.

Hungry Blogger

So annoying. I've written 2 blogs that the blogger has eaten and I can't view Dan's blog unless I go to his profile and read the posts from there...any ideas?

I Couldn't Have Said It Better Myself...So I Didn't

With all the hooplah with the election (upset) I was really irritated with "America voted on its moral values..." Well, I wasn't sure exactly how to express my feelings. Apparently, I didn't have to....my friend Jen said it best.

Call Me! Celebrity Hearings

Can you believe it? In the past few days I have received calls from former Mayor Guliani, Barbara Bush and Lynn Swann!! Amazing that these celebrities have so much time to call little 'ol me. Boy, this is really going to sway my vote.
And, yes...I'm leaving to vote now.

Voter Anxiety

Okay....so I'm voting for the 3rd time in my life. I know...pathetic at the age of 28, but I am voting. However, voting in the primaries is now giving me voter anxiety. Not the canidates, not the choice, but the actual physical part of voting. During the primaries I signed in at my old elementary school and one of the old ladies led me to the voter booth fixing the side thingy as per my registry. I was registered Republican (though have since changed since my license photo in July.) During that time in May I did not want to vote Republican so I did that. Well, as I went to pull the lever to get out of the booth (yes they are that old of booths,) I realized I was stuck. My feet were probably seen floating off the ground as I tried desperately to get the curtain open. I started to sweat and quickly started checking all the buttons, directions....there even was an extra lever in there that did something. Long short of it, I pressed a few more buttons and got out. Later that week I went to dinner with a friend and told her the story. She (being an educated voter and voting machine expert unlike myself) let me know that there is no way I should have been able to vote Democrat and informed me that my votes were pretty much null and void and the machine must have been junk. The only thing I was informed on was that yes in fact, the machines were junk. They were the ones that were there when I went to elementary school 20 years ago. My anxiety now leads me to this. They have closed my elementary school and moved my voter place. UGH! Hello?? I've just mastered the first one....now a change. So, here I go again to vote. Sick enough that I almost hope the voting machines have been moved there to have some familiarity.

Hellofa Halloween

Though I was (am) fighting off a crap-ass cold, Halloween was a great time this weekend. The party was at a friend Ryan's cabin near me. (Hooray!! I finally had a party less than an hour away!!!!) The boys from Dormont and Katie made it down. We had a great time. We ate, drank, sat, ate, drank, played games, ate and drank and ate and drank. UGH! I was stuffed and mighty drunk. Ryan's girlfriend, Amy brought pumpkins we carved and I got to see Ben and his new fiance. Ryan's friends from the bird place he works for at times came in as well. We even had a mini costume party. I saw a lot-lizard, Morpheous, a sheik and his wife, a cop, farm girl, biker, etc...and everyone got to see my costume. I went as myself...7 years prior. So, basically I wore my sorority sweatshirt and got shit-faced. (I thought it was pretty original.) However, instead of falling down like I used to, I passed out on the hood of my car trying to get rid of the spins. No, I wasn't going to drive anywhere. I went to get my sleeping bag and felt like I was going to hurl. The logical thing to do?? Plant feet firmly on the ground, bend forward and keep left cheek on the cool hood of the car. I will say typical me.
In any sense, I ate too much, drank too much and made some new friends equaling a good party.
Halloween Day I used the couch as my friend and watched the football game. Good game even though I still don't understands the rules.

Signmon Says!

Seriously....how many political signs can there be? Driving down the road today-literally a stretch of 200 yards-there were at least 30-40 signs of different polictical canidates. I understand putting the ones up for some local offices, but the ones I don't get are the Bush/Cheney, Kerry/Edwards signs. I mean....who doesn't know that they are running? Isn't that a waste of campaign money? It's not as if I'm going to drive down the road and say, "I'll vote for Bush...no Kerry...no Bush...no Clymer...who the fuck?" One, I'm pretty decided. It doesn't take me much. Nor should it take anyone any major time to decide. Unless of course you were the ladies on the Today Show today...thanks Robin for the quip about that. I totally agree. I like a 9-month pregnant woman with the election this year. I'm cooked. Done. Ready to give birth to the next 4 years.

Pizza, Beer and God

Now there's three things that don't usually come together. Although, sometimes God does come up after too many beers. Tonight was a pretty interesting, however. What started out as a girls' night, work bitch, chat-it-up session turned into a conversation that made me feel reaffirmed and reassured in my beliefs in religion. The long-short of it was what you believe, what is love, what is God, yada, yada, yada....and a great comment by a man at the table. (Yes, ladies...a good comment out of a man's mouth!--just kidding.) "Those people who live their lives the way that God intended are much closer to God than those who state 'I believe in God." Well, the comment was something of that. Now, I'm not sure that you have to choose "God" as your higher power if one at all, but I felt pretty good about myself. I have never been a "stater" or "claimer" of words but have always done what I thought was right. Have I made bad decisions knowingly? Of course...who hasn't? My stance on it was that I do believe in God, however I live my life the way I do because that's what feels right...not what a book dictates. Now, I do claim to be a very uneducated, organized religious person...in other words, a shmorgasbord Christian. Why a Christian? I don't know....I guess that's where faith steps in. Good, Lord. I could just keep writing because points keep coming at me. I think that's what religion is supposed to do -come at you in so many different ways that you don't know what the heck is going on. My head hurts now. I should just stick to the beer and pizza. Not much confusion on that, eh?

In any sense....good conversation. It was nice (strange, but nice) to sit in a bar and be enlightened by other persons thoughts.

Busy, Buzzy, Bee

Agh! Been soooo busy! No time for anything. And, had a major computer meltdown last week. Lesson learned-Backup files often. I lost a little, but not too much.
Quick trip to NYC this weekend and I got the cutest purse. If I can ever figure out how to post pictures, you may be lucky enough to see this little delight. Yeah...I'm sure you're just on the edge of you seat right now. More later.

Jump on the Trend Train

So after the fashion disasters that I had to try to organize, I can only remember one major thing that is soooo yesterday. I'm really sick of the "sandwich dancing." It's totally annoying to have some total tool belt that thinks as soon as he hears "In Da Club" that everyone woman wants to dance with him. "I don't know how I'll decide between the two...okay, I'll just put one in the back and one in the front!" Oh, God.

More annoying. Two girls chucking the "meat" from the sandwich in order to pretend to be lesbians. Last time I checked with lesbian friends they didnt' have relationships that simulated being porn stars.

Come on people! Can't we jump on the trend train again? I love remembering dance moves like the Cabbage Patch and Roger Rabbit....that's right...we remember, not continue to do.

Ugg, Ugh! Slap on the Fashion Cuffs!

Saturday night I met my friend Emily who was in from New Orleans at her sister's apartment on the South Side of Pittsburgh. It was great to see her and sisters, friends and family. We headed out to a bar called Jimmy D's. I haven't been there in quite a while. Being 28 I will say that I felt ancient, but still longed for the fraternity house atmosphere it put off. The music was what I call "Pit Music" (an inside joke for those WC people.) We had a good time doing a little drinking, dancing and the best part of it all....people watching. It's amazing what you see when you go out. Pittsburgh is well known to be a bevy of bad fashion. I probably could put that statement to the majority of southwestern PA. Jimmy D's was definitely the place to prove this theory. I spotted too tight tops, too tight pants, florals! The size issue nowadays is amazing. Are women (girls, too) more confident in their bodies that they think they can wear anything? or do these girls have no friends to say, "honey...you CANNNNNNOOT wear that!"
After a while I felt a little guilty for talking as though I've never had a fashion problem (though I will say if I did it was blip in my radar.) Then my good friend Emily reminded me that (and I quoth) "As long as I have a voice, I will speak out in the name of FASHION!" Yeah, I didn't feel bad then. Someone has to do it, right?

Here are a few of the fashion disasters I spotted Saturday night...in no particular order.

1. Tan pants that were 2 sizes two small. She didn't have panty lines, however I would have rather seen panty lines than the cottage cheese she packed in the trunk. Suggestion- black pants (even when they're too tight, you can't see what's underneath.)

2. "Bellied shirt" Now, don't confuse this with the belly shirt that has resurfaced from 1985. This bellied shirt was a too tight shirt that this girl should have definitely thought twice about. I actually thought twice that maybe pregnant women should drink at bars. Suggestion-cute little crocheted shawl to hide the belly.

3. Victorian Floraled shirt. This is just a plain NO. Florals weren't cute in the 80's and 90's and they're not cute now. I think they are made so that when grandmas venture out to buy gifts they can buy you something you can take back. Suggestion-Take it back and tell grandma they didn't have it in your size.

4. Sandals. Um, hello?? It's October 17 and we're not in South Beach or LA. It's after Labor Day, honey. Some rules still need to be obeyed. And....it was 45 degrees out! Suggestion-check the weather channel and calendar before you go out.

5. Uggs, jean skirt, t-shirt. Separately...good jean skirt, good t-shirt, ehhh...not so sure on the Uggs right now. I can't decide. However, together? Uh, last year called and they want Mary-Kate's outfit back. Suggestion-read Glamour, Cosmo...shit read some magazine dated with the current month and date.

6. And this is the biggest one. One girl committed so many crimes, I actually felt bad like maybe she was in Learning Support for fashion. Outfit included....tan/white large knit winter sweater (not quite fitted, but not huge,) unironed cargo chinos, woven Mexicanesque looking belt, SANDALS, and summer canvas pink purse with bamboo handles. That purse must have cost a pretty penny to try to get that much wear out of it. (I'm starting to sweat just thinking about this one.) This definitely requires a few suggestions.
Suggestions....
a. Sandals...self explanatory.
b. Sweater...not bad, but not with this outfit. Looks like football game or fall walk. Small knit, fitted next time.
c. Cargos...Girls need to be feminine and accentuate our bodies. Bulky pockets rarely do that.
d. Belt...try a satin ribbon one. Keep the Spanish to "cervesa" when out.
e. Purse...buy classic. Don't put money into a purse you'll use a few times in 3 months! Better off, buy knockoff.

In any sense Saturday night made me feel much better about myself. The few extra pounds I harbor don't seem so important being that I know how to mask them with cute outfits. When I feel old in a bar, I know I still have the fashion sense I had at 16 and 21...and I don't think I'll get stuck in an era, nor try to fit into a style that isn't me....and will NEVER be me. Most of all. I know that I have friends that would rescue me from these fashion diseases if they would arise for they have to voice for fashion. Ladies, please take the pledge. Stand up for fashion!

Yikes!

So I got my highschool reunion picture back. OMG! First...I can't believe the comparison from my senior year and 10 years later. Gross. I totally need a body removal. And second....I look like a frickin' deer in headlights!!! Could they have taken a worse picture? To be honest very few people have normal looks on their faces. I've definitely seen better and happier pictures of them. (Even if it has been 10 years.) Is it that we had no worries ten years ago? Is this what stress and age does to you? I hate to think what 15, 20 and 25 look like. Maybe I can request a Botox map that will put me into permagrin. Oh, God. I already hate getting old...will I have to invest my retirement into MaryKay eye cream?

Iceberg!

I've been lazy on the blogging part. Funny how I think about things I want to write when I'm in school and have no access to editing this site. Anyway......went to my highschool reunion this past weekend. 10 years. Disappointing turnout of people. I swear there were only 25 people there. Um...I graduated with 250, and the 25 included spouses. And there were 4 of us without dates. Oh well, I did have an alright time catching up with the few that were there. I left early to head on down to the 'burgh with my college friends.
We met up at the Science Center for a Titanic Live. $20, 2 drinks and a Led Zeppelin laser show. Money well spent. However, the end of the night was quite bizarre. A German theater troupe recreated the sinking of the Titanic on the Allegheny River. Pretty cool, eh? Not so...well, I'm not even sure how to describe it. A bunch of look-a-likes from the Phish Hoist album running around, lighting fires and jumping into the path of pipes squirting with water....80 minutes later, ICEBERG! Yes ladies and gentlemen, the Titanic, and Titanick, have just left the building. I"m all open to alternative and interesting theater experiences, but this was just weird. In any sense, it was more interesting than sitting in a bar. However, no more bizarre sometimes.

Home Spa Treatment

If you're a guy reading this post, you'll probably want to pass unless you have back hair. Then, I suggest you listen closely.
I took a late trip to Wal-mart this evening to pick up $14 bag of dog food. $50 later I walk out with a "few" extra items. I got a Halloween bandana for Neville, my Schnoodle and a really cute Frankenstein hat for him. He hates it, but I'll make him wear it for trick-or-treat. I also bought some new hair wax, hairspray and a new waxing kit. Sally Hansen has a new "spa wax treatment." Fabulous!! Being a swimmer I prefer to wax the bikini line as it cuts down on shaving time and is quite frankly, much easier. With new waxing kit...10 minutes tops!! And that included eyebrows, too. Normally it can take me a week or two, bottle of wine and some serious lamaze breathing. So, if waxing is your game...get this kit. Reasonable and definitely works.

SWF looking for Men to Repel

Not a very eventful weekend, but definitely a relaxing one. I got to catch up on Sex and the City (now have finished Season 3.) Friday night I went out with friends of my parents. Yes, you might say I'm a loser that the people I go out with are my parents age, but hey...they're out and my friends here aren't. Anywho...after a few glasses of wine with them I decided to stay out on my own. I don't usually do this because I now feel like a loser sitting at the bar watching a football game that A. I have absolutely no interest in and B. that I don't even remotely understand. But, I stayed anyway running into a teacher I work with. She was out with her man, so I headed on over to the bar where a friend works...

I always go over there with the intention of staying for 1 drink...and it never ends up that way. Maybe because I then am not at the bar "alone" because she's at least working there or the fact that my bar tab ends up "disappearing." Regardless, I stayed out too late. I did run into a guy that I gave my number to last weekend (who didn't call.) I was slightly embarrassed because I wasn't really sure that was him the first time I walked past. Therefore, I passed with a slight smile so that I didn't look stupid. When the next time I had to pass him I gave him a tap on the shoulder. He then called me on my initial fear..."You didn't recognize me, did you?" I replied with, "Yeah, I did. You have a hat on this time." Can you get any dumber response, Molly??

I have three theories on why he didn't call.
1. He didn't want to.
2. I gave him the wrong number (I can never remember my cell number and fucked it up when I gave it to him...hey, who dials their own number???) <--also due the number of beers that I drank. ORRRRR
3. When I said last week that he wanted to talk to me sometime again I responded with a number of guy repeliant comments. First I said that I don't call people...which I don't. The last 5 men I have pursued have blown up in my face so I'm done with that (tangeant.) Then I told him that "this would be the time you ask for my number." (This is the time I could have screwed up the order of digits in my number.) And then finally the real kicker...verbatum I said, "I'm not a sure thing. If you call, I may or may not want to talk to you. I'm fickle, busy and I travel a lot on the weekends."
And I wonder why I don't date??!

Where are my other Golden Girls?

So after a really loooong week (with one day left to go!!!) I had to attend a new teacher meeting in order to meet with the union reps, etc. I wasn't terribly excited about going, but hey...free dinner, right? It was supposed to be from 6-8. Not too bad..........After a mix-up in reservations, cold porch to a new restaurant we ended up 6-9:30 and I took my dinner in a to-go box. Ugh. I purposely didn't each lunch because I knew that I probably wouldn't stick to my diet at dinner. After being irritated by the schedule and not being able to take that much info in at 9:00 at night, and the waiter serving me regular coffee, I ended up at home on the couch watching Sister Act 2 (Back in the Habit-if you will) with a piece of cheesecake I took out of freezer. So, no I didn't stick to my diet and I didn't eat my dinner in the to-go box. But, damn the cheesecake was good! And...just like Dorothy, Sofia, Blanche and Rose, cheesecake does make things better. Especially at night. Where are my other Golden Girls? Wonder which one I am?
Thank you for being a friend....

Hooked Again

I'm hooked again into another TV show. Every year that one of my shows dies off or even the beginning of a new season I say, " I'm not going to watch that much TV anymore. I'm going to read or do something productive." Yet, what drags me in this time? America's Next Top Model. Agghh! I'm so hooked.

I've watched this show before, but I don't think it was as intense as I anticipate this one. I really like the fact that Tyra picked these girls because of their imperfections. Totally cool and unique. So far, as far as looks I like Julie, Toccara and Ya Ya.

Inspiration of the Blog and Nonsense

After the previous post, I feel much better. Tomorrow is a new day and one less day of the year. Self talk, Molly, self talk.

So you're all asking...why "the girl in the corner," right? (Don't all ask at once.) About...shit...12 years ago I wrote this poem entitled "the girl in the corner." It's one of these poems that I've continued to add each year. I've never really written anything like it before as most of my poems tend to stem from highs and lows in relationships. Not sure that I'll share it now as for I'm a bit shy with my work and (after 12 years) I know it's not quite finished as yet. I've knocked around developing it into a story or novel of some sort, but just haven't figured how to develop the whole thing. We'll see. However, the motivation of becoming a full time writer is rising with the dissatisfaction in my current employment. When do we really know what we want to do? I have this internal timeline that keeps haunting me. I think, 28...not settled...no steady career and unsettling feeling. I'm not totally pissed with my life, but I feel like I'm in a relationship and someone says, "What's he like?" I respond with, "Oh...he's...um, nice?" Such is life. Is that why I've spent so much money with psychics?

Hate Club

So I think I've officially joined the part of the workforce that hates their job. It's not the occupation, but particularly my job. I teach. I teach "4th grade." I say that loosely because A. most of my students are not even close to a 4th grade level, but mostly B. I scream all day. -Yes, I've tried the reverse psychology of not yelling to see if they calm down. No. They just continue to talk over me. Total lack of respect, hoodlum kids. Well, all but probaby 7 kids....out of 23? Not a good ratio. I can't believe some of the things I actually say to them. However, my favorite response is this one. Note: This school is very transient due the "rent is due on the 1st" policy. Anyway. Because of that I have a lot of students tell me either in passing or angst "I'm moving on Friday." My response...."Don't make promises you can't keep."

Okay..enough on bitching about my job. I know I'm not the only one. (I just don't make as much money as you!)

New Links

So I just added some new links (thanks to Dan's computer programming skills.) Take a peek.

Girls, Girls, Girls

There's something that's very settling and relaxing about girl time. This weekend I fortunately had the opportunity to share some well overdue and well deserved girl time.

Saturday...after spending the majority of the day nursing a stupid hangover, I received a call from my friend Renee. We agreed to meet up with another friend, Erin, at Renee's house in which is always a stop for family and friends. (A place where I spent most of my high school career with Renee, Lara and the family.) 10 years has passed since the three of us graduated high school and I love the way we have all matured and grown into the women that we are. We laughed, gossiped and (at least I felt) solved life's problems...or at least mine. I've definitely come to the conclusion that I'm not totally satisfied with my life and changes are soon to come. That's a whole 'nother subject in which I'll dedicate more blogging to later. In any sense, it was so great to visit with the girls and catch up. The best part about the two of them is that no matter how much time has passed, we pick up where we left off...it's just a lot more talking to do. Erin's getting married, Renee's tossing the family idea around and me...well...no major changes as yet. Ah, but the year is young.

Sunday...with a mere 5 hours of sleep (due to the first cup of caffeine in 1 1/2 years the night before and loads of catching up) I headed on down to The Cheesecake Factory. One, excellent meal. Two, great conversation. I kind of giggled because it seemed so Sex and the City. More upscale than the diner the girls usually frequent, but the set up was the same and the conversation definitely hit the levels. (Yes, I like to live my through TV shows, but who doesn't?) Once again we solved more of life's mysteries, bitched about men, joked about sex -and the opposite sex- and solidified life's biggest mystery. The Female Bond.

All in all it was a great weekend.

Snippet

When Friends ended I was bummed because I really loved the show. It was something to look forward to on Thursday night and a conversation piece or point of referrence always. Now that Joey is on I was hoping to see some similarities to Friends. One: I think Joey's nephew is pretty cute and funny. I like that they've made some of his personality similar to Joey's. I also like how they've made Joey's character evolve, but not too much. (As Joey would not.) But, my favorite Friends similarity that has stayed is the "Snippet."

Snippet (sni-pit) - the clip of the show, after that show, running during the credits that usually has to do with a subplot in the show that you almost forgot about.

Now I know other shows do this, but I always enjoyed the Friends snippet. Now, I will enjoy Joey's.

If you had 10 minutes...

If everyone had 10 minutes left to live, every phone booth would be filled with people calling everyone to say "I love you." So why wait for a catastrophe. ~Ann Landers

Tonight I'm visiting the funeral home for a friend from high school. Derek Homistek. He died suddenly on Friday (talk initially was a heart attack however, I don't believe the autopsy reports have been released.) It's almost surreal that someone my age has passed away due to an illness. I suppose I've been very lucky to have really never experienced this. At 28...people aren't supposed to die. Yes, accidents happen and maybe I'm more prepared for an accidental death at this age as opposed to one of illness. But, old people die of illness. Grandparents and parents die of illness. Not young 28 year old kids. I still consider myself a kid at 28. I'll probably still consider myself a kid at 40.
I remember Derek from junior high when I was a statistician for the basketball team. He had a pretty deep voice for a kid in junior high. He was pretty reserved and quiet, but had a nice smile and a crew cut. (The picture in the newspaper of him I swear showed wavy hair...oh how we change, eh?) I always use to giggle (and still do when I think about it) when he would be ready to go into the game. He was one of the only players that would be very focused and intent on going in the game. Never failed, he would crouch down on one knee and (in his very deep voice for an early teenage boy) say, "I'm goin' in." I remember my friend Mitzie and I repeating it because it sounded so silly. I suppose that was a glimpse into the focus and dedication he put into his life...after reading his obituary, I was quite impressed, but not really surprised of all that he did.

Derek Richard Homistek, age 28, of Uniontown, Pa., passed away suddenly on Friday morning, September 17, 2004.
He was born October 28, 1975, in Uniontown, Pa., the son of Richard Homistek and Cheryl Slater Homistek.Derek was a member of Saint John The Evangelist Roman Catholic Church.He graduated from Laurel Highlands Senior High School where he was a member of the football team and a member of The National Honor Society.He earned Eagle Scout Rank with the Boy Scouts of America and was a member of The Order of The Arrow.Derek graduated with a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Bethany College in Bethany, West Virginia, and was a member of the football team and also Kappa Alpha Order Fraternity.He received a Masters Degree in Education from West Virginia University.Derek was employed as a Teacher with the Albert Gallatin School District.He was an American History Scholar, American Civil War Living History Actor, and a member of The 11th Pennsylvania Company.He enjoyed mountain biking, fishing and snow boarding.Derek was a volunteer at Fort Necessity as a Living Historian.He also coached football at Morgantown High School in West Virginia.Derek was preceded in death by his Grandfather, Stephen Homistek, Great Grandmother, Anna Schifko, Great Grandfather, William Schifko, Great Grandmother, Ann Slater, and Great Grandfather, Andrew Slater.In addition to his loving and devoted Parents, he is survived by his loving and beautiful Bride-to-be, Elaine Chabanik; his Brother, Ryan Homistek and his fianc?e, Gretchen Long; his Sister, Lesley Homistek; Paternal Grandmother, Kay Homistek; Aunt, Mary Beth Homistek; Maternal Grandfather, Edmund Slater; Maternal Grandmother, Dorothy Slater; Aunts and Uncles: Janet and Richard Kettering and Jarred and Karen Slater, Cousins: Jason Kettering, Jeremy Kettering and Ian Slater; several other Friends, Neighbors and Students whom he cherished; his In-Laws-to-be whom he loved, William and Cathy Chabanik; and his Brother-in-Law-to-be and Sister-in-Law-to-be, Sam and Victoria (Chabanik) Denny.

And I Would Drive Eight Hundred Miles...

Well...after close to 800 miles, 100 s0me bucks, 20 or so beers, 2 bottles of wine and one-uhn-uh-uhnnn bottle of champagne....my weekend is over. Crappy weather on Saturday, but that didn't stop the great weekend. I got to see my great friend, Dan and meet his friends Barry, Anita, Robin, Katie and Erica and solve the mystery of Lesterhead. We had a great time with karaoke belting out our favorite showtunes, rap songs, hard rock 80's anthems (thanks for the rock star show Barry!) It's nice to know that I can leave Dan in good hands since he's on hiatus from the Westminster cult that we formed in our kick ass years in college. Don't worry Dan, we still leave a plastic chair on the memory porch for you. ; )

I love traveling to visit my friends that have moved on from our area. I always learn something that's new...either general trivia or ideas or about myself. I've learned this weekend that...
1. I need a hobby. I'm not sure what it will be, but I need to take a class, make something or join a club or sport's team of some sort.

2. (I always think about this when I'm in a city bigger than U'town) I LOVE public transportation. I know that sounds crazy, but I would enjoy a 30-45 min comute to work by train. Though, my 1.2 mile drive to work isn't so shabby. (Yes, I should walk, right? This bitch ain't walkin' through the ghet-to!)

3. Cruise control should be rename "Set your speed and feel out of control." I tried using it for a while, but I feel like I'm going to fly off the road.

4. No matter how tired I get, how packed my schedule gets, it's always good to make time to visit friends. I know I'm a person that can get the "out of sight, out of mind" syndrome, so I really try to make a conscious effort to touch base with friends. I'm sure people think I'm nuts to drive 6+ hours to visit for a weekend, but to me it's worth a long ride to keep in touch.

5. Sometimes opening a bottle of wine at 3 AM is a damn good idea.

Now that I've blah, blah, blogged, I think I'll get some well deserved sleep.

I'm in a New York state of mind.

The best way to make a year go fast is to plan lots of trips. Being a school teacher, this is a must. It definitely helps through the months of October and March. I planned early this year by venturing out in September. NYC this weekend. Now, while my usual trips to NYC include going into scary buildings looking for the best bargain on a purse, this weekend will be pure relaxation, fun and visiting. I will visit Dan who has just been (willingly) let go from his job with Elektra records....although I think they/he changed to Atlantic. (all I know is my email from him changed hands from one to the next.) He also quite timely just landed the lead in a play. Something about "The resurrection of Clay," I think. I asked if it was about Clay Aiken, and Dan let me know it was the future story of Clay when his career booms again in 50 years....Anyway, I'm pretty excited to get away. I believe there is a night of karaoke planned for Saturday. There are these private karaoke places that are so much fun. They seem like a dirty hotel fling when you have to go up and say, "Um, 5 people for 3 hours." Nonetheless...I had a blast over New Year's when we went. I'm a big fan of Blondie or Mamas and the Papas for regular bar singing (confidence takes over) but, I will pull out the Ludacris this weekend. When I move you move...
I truly can't wait to get away from my kids. (um, that's classroom, kids, eh.) I hate to say that, but my god. I have about 8 good kids in my room on a good day. The fuckers can't even play a game without pushing, yelling, getting in trouble, etc. We teachers should really have a 4 day week. (but still have off June, July, Aug) I have the worst stress cramp in my neck from this week. Thank fuck it's Thursday tomorrow. Do you notice I don't swear unless it's my job? And, shit...I forgot to play the Powerball. Looks like I'm not retiring tomorrow. Oh well, 29 years, 168 days left.

"Leninem"

Don't ask me where I found this, but I was crackin' up when I saw it.

Fool In The Rain

Don't you just love when a song just fits your moment. I love music for this reason. This is just a great song, but today it really hit the spot.

Well there's a light in your eye that keeps shining,
Like a star that can't wait for the night
I hate to think i've been blinded baby.
Why can't i see you tonight?

And the warmth of your smile starts a-burnin'
And the thrill of your touch gives me fright
And i'm shaking so much, really yearning
Why don't you show up, make it all right?
Yeah, it's all right.

And if you promised you'd love so completely
And you said you would always be true
You swore that you would never leave me, baby:
What ever happened to you?

And you thought it was only in movies
As you wish all your dreams would come true
It ain't the first time believe me,
babyI'm standin here feeling blue
Yeah i'm blue

Now i will stand in the rain on the corner
I'll watch the people go shuffling downtown
Another ten minutes no longer
And then i'm turning around

The clock on the wall's moving slower
My heart it sinks to the ground
And the storm that i thought would blow over
Clouds the light of the love that i found

Now my body is starting to quiver
And the palms of my hands getting wet
I've got no reason to doubt you baby,
It's all a terrible mess

I'll run in the rain till i'm breathless
When i'm breathless i'll run till i drop,
hey The thoughts of a fool's kind of careless
I'm just a fool waiting on the wrong block,
oh yeah Light of the love that i found...

Good Day, Sunshine. Bad Day, Wrong Line.

Today was a good day. The second day of school (29 more years and 178 more days) Yesterday wasn't really that bad except the fact that it was so freakin' hot. My God!!! I'm glad I ate those 3 cookies and piece of cake at the baby shower I went to this weekend because I know I sweated it off yesterday. Today was better because A. my room was cool(er) B. I got to each lunch today C. I actually got a chance to go to the bathroom. ooh wait...now I'm on a rant.

I once had a friend say (whowillremainnamelessmatt) that said teachers are paid enough money and have an easy job. Now, I"m not griping about a 30 year veteran teacher...because yes they are paid fairly. However, new teachers are not. We work 183 days a year, yes. But, if you look at all the "extras" we put in at that time...we deserve the fucking summer off. I am contracted to work 8:30-3:45. I go in at 7 or earlier which adds up to an extra 7.5 to 10 hours a week (because I do stay late.) Rarely I take work home because I go in early and I don't want to do work when I get home. Anyway....at this rate X 36 weeks 7-9 weeks more of work (regualar work year with a little extra vacation.) The biggest argument I have is that to ask yourself these questions
1. How many times a day can you go to the bathroom?
2. How many times a day can you push your work back and give yourself a breather?
3. How much money do you spend on your job? Do you buy your own pencils? Crayons? Glue?
4. How often do you spend money to reward people (students) with candy, pizza, icecream, etc? How much does it cost you?
5. Have you ever talked for 7.5 hours with no break?
6. Do you have to decorate your office every year spending upwards of $600 your first year of work and a steady $200-300 each year after?

I love my job. I really do. I could have been a bigtime salesperson or supermodel (ehh, well maybe not that) but anyway....I just get irked when people say "yeah...but you have the whole summer, holidays etc off."
And this is what I answer.

Well, you could have chosen the greatest profession in the world, too.

Ever man I've ever dated (hated.)

Speaking of journaling again. I had a really good journal entry yesterday. I even started a poem. It could be because I'm actually opening myself up to dating again. You know, after 2 1/2 years I think it's time. Not that I didn't want to date, but I think secretly I was turning myself away. A guy would look at me and literally I would turn away. I don't know why. I think I turned into every man I ever dated (hated.) It's funny...I know it from my dreams. I know dreams really reflect your subconscience and also kind of help you to work out different problems in your life. I dream a lot that I'm driving, but driving "vehicles" that aren't really drivable machines. Vending machine, invisible car. I think it's that I know that I want to date somebody, but I'm actually scared so I do things that clearly won't get me there. (Turn my head, not go out, etc...) I also would dream of other things (not that I can think of them now) that were diverging from any sort of commitment. So I decided last night that I'm ready. I'm ready to get my heart broken if it happens. (That's the biggest thing I think you have to overcome.) With a new job (finally full-time) I'm ready to grow up. Welcome home, Roxy Carmichael, right?

One-eyed Will you marry me?

I started journaling again. (See? I knew this blog would do something good for me!!) Anyway. I always had written on napkins or small note pads and then would later shove them in my journal. While it is now overfloweth, I found something so funny (to me at least) I literally burst out laughing last night. In college a few of my friends and I used to make up scenarios and then have a response of A thru D. This is what I found. It was about a guy that was infatuated with my friend.

"Suppose Bill has one eye like a Cyclops and one tooth. But, he asks you to marry him because God spoke to him in light... You:
A. Politely look him "in the eye" and say no.
B. Run like a banshee before he pops the question.
C. Offer him your broken sunglasses which are now a sunglass.
D. Say yes and let him nibble on your ear with his tooth.

I don't know why this struck me as so funny, but it did. It also reminded me of really good times.

The Perfect Saturday

Ah the perfect Saturday. Laying around on the couch with my dog and watching Sex and the City. I've just recently bought the first 5 seasons (gotta love Ebay!!) so I'm catching up on them. I didn't have HBO until the last 2 seasons so needless to say I have a lot of catching up to do. I've managed today in the midst of eating popcorn, sugar-free creamsicles, diet coke and iced tea (yes, I'm working off a hangover) to watch the first 6 episodes of season 2. I'm only dreading the fact that I have to go back to school on Monday. I really wish life was a TV show. Why can't I have a super-cool life like in Sex and the City? Actually, just the hair, clothes and make-up would do. In any event, my Saturday so far has been perfect.

Crazy Cereal Names

I just heard a commercial for Honey Bunches of Oats and it took me back to college when a group of girls and myself would sit around and make up porno names for cereals. "Honey Munches My Scroats" for instance. We also had "Cocoa Buffs" and "Cheeri-Hos." I can't think of any more but it was always fun. I also remember doing that to movie names as well. Oh, good times.

Your friendly neighborhood bear...

So I took this relationship quiz that was posted on dan's blog

eXpressive: 9/10Practical: 5/10Physical: 2/10Giver: 8/10
You are a XSIG--Expressive Sentimental Intellectual Giver. This makes you a Teddy Bear.Hee! I just want to give you a big squeeze. You are tender, honest, generous and fair. You are an excellent kisser and a sensitive, communicative lover, and you know it. You would never intentionally hurt someone's feelings or overstep his/her boundaries. You have beautiful eyes.
Most people take your laid-back attitude, blazing wit and subtle sexiness and stick you in "friend." But some see your extreme hotness for what it is and latch on. This means you have a few members of your target sex in the bank at all times -- I call this "money in the sex bank" -- but you're too sensitive and thoughtful to exploit them. More than once.
You are so rational and deliberate in an argument that it can frustrate and exhaust your partner. Your fights can take forever, but your press on with them until they are completely resolved and both you and your partner are satisfied. If your partner is weak of will, s/he may just give in -- be wary of this! An emotional or passive-aggressive outburst later will hurt and horrify you.
It is *critically important* that you are able to respect your partner. The moment you lose respect for him/her, you lose everything. When you make friends, you make them for life -- you can go without speaking to a friend for years and pick up right where you left off. You are completely faithful, both physically and emotionally. You are the second best (to XPIG) parent of any type.
If you are male, you have a huge shlong. Just saying.
Of the 2934 people who have taken this quiz, 10.7 % are this type.

okay....who are these people that are "money in the sex bank" and why haven't I met them? I must take 100 of these crazy quizzes. I love them. It's like reading a horoscope. When they say something good, I'm all for it. If I think it's bullshit then oh well.
A teddy bear. Doesn't everyone want a teddy bear?

Wine? Cheese? Me?

Wine and cheese should be stated Cheese and wine from now on for me. I need to focus on eating more cheese than the wine. Oh, the headache. And, apparently it's keeping me from updating my blog since I haven't been here for a while. School starts this week on Thursday....why can't there be week of school, week of vacation? (and still only be 180 days!) I suppose it will go fast once it starts. Maybe that's why there is so much more wine (whine) than cheese.

The Staples

Being a teacher you go through a lot of staples. A lot more than necessary because of this. Staples come in the long unit of 100 or so stuck together so that they neatly fit into the stapler. Now, usually the unit will snap in half of more and you're left with small units of staples. These small units of staples still fit in the stapler, but because of the springloaded whatchmacallit that pushes the staples up, they buckle and fly out of the stapler before you even get the damn thing closed. UGH! How are you supposed to put units of 5 or less staples in a stapler? Maybe I just have a cheap stapler, but none the less, it pisses me off.

On a lighter note, after spending countless hours at my school this week and last preparing for the upcoming school year, I finally got to the pool today. It had looked like it was going to rain, but when I got there it was hot and sunny. I read a bit of my book Wicked and relieved the stress of the stapler.

or am I only dreaming...

So I always have the strangest dreams. Last night I dreamt that I was trying out for American Idol. Not very odd. However the night before (and for those of you who know me....here I go again with another dream) I dreamt that I was going to ride a horse. After collecting the saddle, bridle, etc, I went to the stall to get the horse. I look into the stall and I know it's supposed to be a horse, but it looks like a greyhound with long hair. I'm pretty puzzled at this point and everyone is looking at me like "duh, this is your horse." I'm looking thinking how on earth is this "horse" going to support the saddle, let alone me? Traveling. This is a common theme in my dreams. I'm usually trying, getting or have gone somewhere by an odd means of transportation. In my dreams I've traveled via invisible car down the highway, space-looking roller skates to driving a Lance vending machine. I'm not really sure what this means unless it's that I really want to get somewhere with my life, but must use an outlandish idea or way to get there. hmm....I think I've just summed up my life. Life is not ordinary.

Aqua Lung

So I've started swimming again. Now, I used to swim all the time. And, when I say all the time, by the time I was 14 years old I was swimming 5,000-7,000 yards a day, 6 days a week, and all but 3-4 weeks out of the year. To get back in the pool really has been heaven. I've been walking everyday in the morning at 7:00 and just recently been swimming at 8:00. Getting up at 7 sucks to go out and walk. However, the other day it rained (no walking) and I was super psyched to go and swim at 8. Go figure? Maybe it's because I'm a Cancer or maybe it's because swimming is the only sport I really know how to do. Either way or more, I have never felt better. I'm also getting rid of those love handles I aquired throughout the past 10 years. It gives me time to think without any interuptions except for the noise of the air blowing out of my nose and kick of the water. Maybe in my former life I was a mermaid. Ha..or a blowfish.

Sugar Pie, Honey Too Much

Okay...so in my neverending lists of pet peeves, this may top it. It drives me absolutely batty when someone my age, within 10 years older and ESPECIALLY younger calls me "honey" or "sweetie," UGH! Nothing pisses me off more. Number one: it's completely condescending. Number two: it's worse when it's someone of the same sex. Terms of endearment like those are reserved for parents to kids under 10, grandparents to any age, love interests, or teachers to kids under 10. (Being that I'm a teacher, I have noticed that the first grade and under need this to make comforted sometimes....sometimes.)
While out to dinner last night, the waitress called me honey or sweetie at least three times and she was clearly 5 years younger than me. It just sounds stupid. I'm not 5! Okay....my gripe is over for the time being.

So maybe I'm not so EZ

So I told my story about the EZ pass to a few people last night while out. And, to burst my bubble, the EZ pass did register. Uh, yeah. Apparently you have to have it in some silver bag that NASA develops or something. Oh well...I still would like to think that he thought I was cute and cut me a break. At least I'm potentially worth $6.

Blog: Perplexed and the City

So...as I mentioned before, strange things usually happen to me. My friend and I went to NYC this weekend to do some shopping. Macy's? Tiffany? Prada? Gucci? Well....sorta. Let's just say we're doing the look for less. Much less. And, going to places that young, hot girls like ourselves shouldn't go. Anyway. Our adventure starts in Havre De Grace, MD where my sister lives. We head off to the city around 7:30 with about a 2 hour drive ahead of us. Plans are to go in, get our shopping done in 3 hours or less and have lunch with Dan in Brooklyn. As we're heading toward the city I get a small wave of panic that I have to drive into there in my parents Caravan. (We are REALLY shopping.) Oh shit, I think. And then I'm like....wait a minute. I can drive in downtown (or for you yinzers "dahntahn") Pittsburgh with no problem. This will be easy. I'm serious about this because for those of you who haven't driven amongst the hilled, oneway streeted, no square blocked, built on three rivers city, another city such as NYC may seem overwhelming. Though I was nervous at first, I think the whole confidence of "I can do it" took over. Regardless....we made it to the Holland Tunnel where the cashier person (a man) looks at me and says, "you have EZpass." I reply, "no I don't." He then coyly smiles and says, "yes, you do." {Strange thing one} So I smile and drive on through thinking damn I must look good. Or, my fantasy of "maybe he thinks I'm famous." Either way I've just saved $6. My friend and I head into an undisclosed location in middle Manhatten to start our adventure. 3-4 trips back to the car we're finished. AND....one of our lovely sales people actually carried our bags to our car!! For those of you that know what kind of shops I've been in, this doesn't happen. {Strange thing two) So, Shonda and I call it a day and take the train to Brooklyn to meet Dan for lunch and a drink. Another drink. Eight drinks later we're laughing, telling funny stories, hugging goodbye and back to shop at a pit stop in Chinatown, pick up a few things and take the (wrong) train back to our parking lot where we meet our (once) cheerful parking attendent. "Do you know what time I close?" uh....10? I replied. NO! 6:00. .........it's 10:15 by the way. So, I appologize look at the sign below him that says that it doesn't close at 6:00 and tip him an extra 9 bucks to shut him up. Hey...he said he told us, but like the Holland Tunnel man, I think he was stunned with my beauty. {Weird thing three} heh, heh, heh. We end up back home around 1:30, tired, hungry and groggy. It's amazing how shopping, drinks, friends and an angry parking attendent can really take it out of you. By the way...it was really great visiting with Dan. I wish he lived next door.

My first blog

Well, I started blog after b-sing with a good friend. Or, rather bitching with a good friend and he told me "hey, you should start a blog." After I learned what it was, I thought...oh my God! This is basically what is going on in my head. A place for me to bitch and I don't have to think, "ok...shut up now." Maybe this will get me out of my writer's block as well. I used to journal all the time, but have found out that as soon as I get into bed, I fall asleep. My writing is messy as well. I don't know if these will be interesting or not. But, I've been told that the strangest things seem to happen to me. I'm heading to NYC this weekend so we will see what the future of streets hold for me. I see purses.