Sign the my teacher friends made for me!
Three teachers from our school surprised us by coming to cheer us on!
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
I'm done!!!
A picture of my medal.
My medal and my unofficial time. My official time was 1:34.09
12 mile bike
Leaving T1. I had to wait for the pro that was coming in from the bike.
T leaving on the bike.
Coming in from the bike. My chain popped off on a hill, but I flipped my bike, repaired it, and hit the road again.
Headed into T2.
Tomorrow
The movers come tomorrow, bright and early at 7:30.
We have NOTHING packed.
We are not ready at all.
I am not panicking yet, as it is only 7:20 p.m. Why worry yet?
I'm madly trying to print articles for my article reviews this semester.
I do not think we will be sleeping tonight.
We borrowed the outlaws pressure washer to do the lawnmower and the grill. The swingset needs to be taken down and thrown away.
I still have bags that need to go to certain people. Ugh.
I hope they don't charge too much for being over our weight limit.
We have NOTHING packed.
We are not ready at all.
I am not panicking yet, as it is only 7:20 p.m. Why worry yet?
I'm madly trying to print articles for my article reviews this semester.
I do not think we will be sleeping tonight.
We borrowed the outlaws pressure washer to do the lawnmower and the grill. The swingset needs to be taken down and thrown away.
I still have bags that need to go to certain people. Ugh.
I hope they don't charge too much for being over our weight limit.
Run 3.1 miles
Coming into the finish.
Getting ready to cross the finish line. That's not my time!
Swim 800 meters
I used to be a swimmer, so I wasn't worried about the swim at all. I was just nervous about the whole darn thing!
Trying to convince myself that I was good to go.
Still preparing
Gunner and I after I warmed up in the lake. Isn't he cute?
Swim start. There were 1,976 participants.
Monday, June 8, 2009
The morning of...
Arriving at the race site. The transition area opened at 5ish, so I wanted to make sure that I got there nice and early.
Body marking.
The Day Before
After listening to the briefing, I think we were even more nervous.
Gunner and Junior getting my bike ready to be dropped off.
I did it!
More details to come, but my friend T and I completed our first triathlon!!! It was an unbelievable experience, and there are tons of pictures on my facebook, but more to come here. My official time was 1:34.09!!! I set out to do it under two hours, and I did even better than that! Wait till my next one, lol!
Graduate school starts back up today, packers on Wednesday, movers on Thursday, and a million things in between.
Saturday, June 6, 2009
Happy Birthday
My favorite game in the entire world....well besides Dr. Mario.
I heart regular nintendo.
Yes, it's 5 am on the first day of summer vacation and I am at school.
Friday, June 5, 2009
I survived!
I have just completed my first year of teaching 2nd grade.
I can't believe I did it! I still have to go in and work half a day tomorrow, but I am going in early, will say my goodbyes, cry, and then hit the road. Bike drop off is tomorrow for my tri, and then the triathlon is on Sunday.
I've trained. I'm as ready as I'll ever be. I can't wait!
But for now, I can sit back and relax and know that I did a lot over the past year and a half to make it to the part of saying I am a teacher. I still have to take my two summer courses in order to get my certification, but I am confident that I will make A's. Instead of Gunner being gone this summer while I am in class, I will have a PCS to keep me occupied, camp for Em, a trip for Abs, and more potty training for Junior.
Never a dull moment! Pictures from the ball to come soon....
I can't believe I did it! I still have to go in and work half a day tomorrow, but I am going in early, will say my goodbyes, cry, and then hit the road. Bike drop off is tomorrow for my tri, and then the triathlon is on Sunday.
I've trained. I'm as ready as I'll ever be. I can't wait!
But for now, I can sit back and relax and know that I did a lot over the past year and a half to make it to the part of saying I am a teacher. I still have to take my two summer courses in order to get my certification, but I am confident that I will make A's. Instead of Gunner being gone this summer while I am in class, I will have a PCS to keep me occupied, camp for Em, a trip for Abs, and more potty training for Junior.
Never a dull moment! Pictures from the ball to come soon....
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Conversations
Gunner put Junior in the tub, where he climbed up on the sides while Gunner filled the tub with water. He grabbed his parts, and proceeded to pee and laugh hysterically. Great.
After the bath:
Me: Sweetie why did you pee in the tub?
Jr: Ummmm.....it's fun.
Me: It's gross!
Jr: No, I'm not gross.
Me: Why did you poop in the tub (which is what followed after the peeing incident)
Jr: It was small poop.
Me: Where are you supposed to go to the bathroom?
Jr: In the toilet.
Me: Don't you want to wear underwear?
Jr: No, I don't like wunder-wear. It's terrible.
Me: Why is it terrible?
Jr: It's just BOR-ING!
He says boring just like his sisters. Lucky us!
Fast forward to today...
I get a text today from Gunner. It said "Jr getting booted from daycare for lesions again. Can u get him?"
I had just dropped off my students, so I said I would and ran over to grab him. I went in.
Me: (seeing his form that HAS to be signed by a doctor) It's the same thing he got sent home for two weeks ago. (said to no one in particular)
Kim: (Jr's main provider) YOU haven't even SEEN him. Just WAIT! (said with major attitude)
Me: (Junior runs up) Hey sweetie!
I put Junior on top of a low bookcase and lift his shirt
Kim: See the lesions?
Me: Ummmm.....no. I see where he fell in the sand, he wasn't cleaned up, and the sand irritated his skin. He has very sensitive skin.
Acting director: Right here, these are lesions.
Me: You're kidding right? It's eczema. Are you trained to determine what a lesion is?
AD: I have been through a training.
Me: It wasn't a very good one.
Me: I'll rush him to the er and tell them he is covered in lesions, they will get a good laugh.
So we took him to the er, where sure enough we sat for hours for them to laugh and laugh when they saw him. They said it was eczema and there wasn't a lesion on that boy. They said continue current treatment, signed our paperwork and sent us on our way.
I'm disgusted. What a waste of my time.
We cooked dinner, put the kids to bed, and I went for a swim.
1.5 days till school is out, and then I have to work that half day on Saturday. I can't wait. They have already hired my replacement, I guess I better get working harder on a job in Colorado!
I did figure out how to make TO DO lists and email them to Gunner from my iPhone.
I am sure he will be THRILLED that I have learned how to do this. He always says I make lists of lists, and now I can share each and every one of them with him.
Another round of homecomings here at Hood. It's so nice to see my friends back with their Soldiers!!!
After the bath:
Me: Sweetie why did you pee in the tub?
Jr: Ummmm.....it's fun.
Me: It's gross!
Jr: No, I'm not gross.
Me: Why did you poop in the tub (which is what followed after the peeing incident)
Jr: It was small poop.
Me: Where are you supposed to go to the bathroom?
Jr: In the toilet.
Me: Don't you want to wear underwear?
Jr: No, I don't like wunder-wear. It's terrible.
Me: Why is it terrible?
Jr: It's just BOR-ING!
He says boring just like his sisters. Lucky us!
Fast forward to today...
I get a text today from Gunner. It said "Jr getting booted from daycare for lesions again. Can u get him?"
I had just dropped off my students, so I said I would and ran over to grab him. I went in.
Me: (seeing his form that HAS to be signed by a doctor) It's the same thing he got sent home for two weeks ago. (said to no one in particular)
Kim: (Jr's main provider) YOU haven't even SEEN him. Just WAIT! (said with major attitude)
Me: (Junior runs up) Hey sweetie!
I put Junior on top of a low bookcase and lift his shirt
Kim: See the lesions?
Me: Ummmm.....no. I see where he fell in the sand, he wasn't cleaned up, and the sand irritated his skin. He has very sensitive skin.
Acting director: Right here, these are lesions.
Me: You're kidding right? It's eczema. Are you trained to determine what a lesion is?
AD: I have been through a training.
Me: It wasn't a very good one.
Me: I'll rush him to the er and tell them he is covered in lesions, they will get a good laugh.
So we took him to the er, where sure enough we sat for hours for them to laugh and laugh when they saw him. They said it was eczema and there wasn't a lesion on that boy. They said continue current treatment, signed our paperwork and sent us on our way.
I'm disgusted. What a waste of my time.
We cooked dinner, put the kids to bed, and I went for a swim.
1.5 days till school is out, and then I have to work that half day on Saturday. I can't wait. They have already hired my replacement, I guess I better get working harder on a job in Colorado!
I did figure out how to make TO DO lists and email them to Gunner from my iPhone.
I am sure he will be THRILLED that I have learned how to do this. He always says I make lists of lists, and now I can share each and every one of them with him.
Another round of homecomings here at Hood. It's so nice to see my friends back with their Soldiers!!!
Monday, June 1, 2009
Highway Robbery
I tried to make a reservation for a hotel and it was more expensive to use a military discount than it was a AAA. Does that make sense? I guess they do the same thing for most airline tickets too, so I shouldn't be too surprised.
Then Gunner went to give notice at the housing office and he asked about getting our house cleaned. When we moved from our old house to the new house, we decided we didn't want to pay the big bucks to get our house cleaned. It would have cost us $320 and in the end after we scrubbed that house from top to bottom, they charged us a $290 cleaning fee. We argued it and the manager said he would have charged us more!
So any money that we get for leaving the house in the middle of the month will go to pay......are you ready for this.......the $390 cleaning fee for this house. After 4 1/2 years here in this house, I won't even attempt to try and please these people. I'm telling you, it's a conspiracy in order to suck you dry. We cleared Germany and Fort Lewis with no problems, so we know it is possible. Very few of our friends have had luck with Hood though. Just seems like a huge ripoff.
I'm on hold with maintenance right now waiting for them to pickup so I can have them out to fix everything wrong with this place. I guess when you think about my lack of repair bills, even when the baby gate pushed into the wall and made holes.....three times.
....We forgot about going to the summer camp orientation for SAS and made it just in time. One more thing to check off the list.
I got a scholarship for summer school. Guess having a 4.0 finally paid off for something!
I am almost all the way packed up at school. It looks so bare in there. Looking back, the year went so fast, even if at times I was pulling out my hair!
I bet the next 6 weeks just fly by.
Then Gunner went to give notice at the housing office and he asked about getting our house cleaned. When we moved from our old house to the new house, we decided we didn't want to pay the big bucks to get our house cleaned. It would have cost us $320 and in the end after we scrubbed that house from top to bottom, they charged us a $290 cleaning fee. We argued it and the manager said he would have charged us more!
So any money that we get for leaving the house in the middle of the month will go to pay......are you ready for this.......the $390 cleaning fee for this house. After 4 1/2 years here in this house, I won't even attempt to try and please these people. I'm telling you, it's a conspiracy in order to suck you dry. We cleared Germany and Fort Lewis with no problems, so we know it is possible. Very few of our friends have had luck with Hood though. Just seems like a huge ripoff.
I'm on hold with maintenance right now waiting for them to pickup so I can have them out to fix everything wrong with this place. I guess when you think about my lack of repair bills, even when the baby gate pushed into the wall and made holes.....three times.
....We forgot about going to the summer camp orientation for SAS and made it just in time. One more thing to check off the list.
I got a scholarship for summer school. Guess having a 4.0 finally paid off for something!
I am almost all the way packed up at school. It looks so bare in there. Looking back, the year went so fast, even if at times I was pulling out my hair!
I bet the next 6 weeks just fly by.
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Coordination
I'm starting to panic a little bit. I cannot leave Texas until I am done with summer school.
So I need a place to stay until mid-July.
Abs is leaving mid-June to go on her dinosaur expedition with my mom to Utah.
Em will be here with me, but is going to camp for a week right before I am done with school.
Gunner has to sign in early because he has school in KY for 6 weeks from July-August. He might take Junior with him since "supposedly" the daycare information was uploaded to Carson. Let's hope there is room for him or he might be in formation with him.
The inlaws have offered us a place to stay, but seriously, they have 5 HUGE dogs and they (dogs) rule the place, and no one cleans.
We are hoping that there is room in the guest house on post and it is cheap. Local stay by the week places are pricey.
A friend offered her place. Another friend offered her house, but I just hate to impose with a whole crew of people. We will house sit probably our last week here for one of the friends, when I am down to just one child.
We have way too much stuff, and my list of things to take keeps growing and growing.
I am a worrier. Gunner takes it all in stride and doesn't worry, he says because I do enough for the both of us. It drives me nuts that he doesn't worry!
Do I take my school stuff and hope I have a job? I am in the process of filling out the application to teach there, and I have GREAT references from my principal and others, so I am hoping that I can find something. I haven't even brought home everything that I have at school yet. How did I fit so much in my classroom? This week my students are going to help me toss everything I think.
We decided we would give the girls a rubbermaid tote and they could take whatever they could fit in there. Abs came out in tears because she could only fit one of her three feet long dinosaurs in there and she would need to chop of the head. I assured her that her dinosaurs could still go, but that she needed to fit her toys and everything else in there.
Abs came out with her handmade dream catcher and decided it needed to go in a box for breakable things. It's made out of pipecleaners, but I assured her that we would find a way to get it there in one piece. Then Abs found a stash of shoes boxes and started filling them with stuffed animals.
Em got wind of this and decided it wasn't fair that she had half a dozen shoe boxes, so she needed some too.
Then the girls presented us with a plan to make room for their toys. They want to sell all their clothing, use the money to buy material, and Em will sew them all new clothes once they get to Colorado. They are both so excited about this plan, that I told them maybe we could get rid of some and we could use some material I have to make a few things. Em is already designing them. Here's her latest projects from Project Runway II.
So, I am drinking a monster, making lists, checking them twice, and have decided that it will all workout. Worst case scenario, we are over our weight limit and have to pay. I just left a message with my sister to see if she wanted my piano, Gunner took another load to the inlaws and I have boxes and a HUGE pile to go to my mom. She is going to be less than thrilled, especially since she is due back from her worldwind vacation to China, Thailand, and Korea.
Maybe she will be too tired to notice the pile in her living room that I left....
So I need a place to stay until mid-July.
Abs is leaving mid-June to go on her dinosaur expedition with my mom to Utah.
Em will be here with me, but is going to camp for a week right before I am done with school.
Gunner has to sign in early because he has school in KY for 6 weeks from July-August. He might take Junior with him since "supposedly" the daycare information was uploaded to Carson. Let's hope there is room for him or he might be in formation with him.
The inlaws have offered us a place to stay, but seriously, they have 5 HUGE dogs and they (dogs) rule the place, and no one cleans.
We are hoping that there is room in the guest house on post and it is cheap. Local stay by the week places are pricey.
A friend offered her place. Another friend offered her house, but I just hate to impose with a whole crew of people. We will house sit probably our last week here for one of the friends, when I am down to just one child.
We have way too much stuff, and my list of things to take keeps growing and growing.
I am a worrier. Gunner takes it all in stride and doesn't worry, he says because I do enough for the both of us. It drives me nuts that he doesn't worry!
Do I take my school stuff and hope I have a job? I am in the process of filling out the application to teach there, and I have GREAT references from my principal and others, so I am hoping that I can find something. I haven't even brought home everything that I have at school yet. How did I fit so much in my classroom? This week my students are going to help me toss everything I think.
We decided we would give the girls a rubbermaid tote and they could take whatever they could fit in there. Abs came out in tears because she could only fit one of her three feet long dinosaurs in there and she would need to chop of the head. I assured her that her dinosaurs could still go, but that she needed to fit her toys and everything else in there.
Abs came out with her handmade dream catcher and decided it needed to go in a box for breakable things. It's made out of pipecleaners, but I assured her that we would find a way to get it there in one piece. Then Abs found a stash of shoes boxes and started filling them with stuffed animals.
Em got wind of this and decided it wasn't fair that she had half a dozen shoe boxes, so she needed some too.
Then the girls presented us with a plan to make room for their toys. They want to sell all their clothing, use the money to buy material, and Em will sew them all new clothes once they get to Colorado. They are both so excited about this plan, that I told them maybe we could get rid of some and we could use some material I have to make a few things. Em is already designing them. Here's her latest projects from Project Runway II.
So, I am drinking a monster, making lists, checking them twice, and have decided that it will all workout. Worst case scenario, we are over our weight limit and have to pay. I just left a message with my sister to see if she wanted my piano, Gunner took another load to the inlaws and I have boxes and a HUGE pile to go to my mom. She is going to be less than thrilled, especially since she is due back from her worldwind vacation to China, Thailand, and Korea.
Maybe she will be too tired to notice the pile in her living room that I left....
Saturday, May 30, 2009
Weekend
I survived swimming on Friday.
We did our 50 mile bike ride on Saturday. My time was 3 hours 12 minutes. I was hoping for under 3 hours, but I timed the stops and had to pee twice!
This morning we did a 10K obstacle course. Gunner and I were signed up as a team for this event. We climbed up ropes, over tall hurdles (not in a single bound), tires, army low crawl (Gunner kicked ass, and me not so much), low hurdles and a tunnel, then finally the rope wall! It was a lot of fun and we did it in 1 hour 17 minutes which isn't bad considering you have to wait sometimes for the obstacles!
They do need to work on the water situation, since there were only two stops and one of them was out of water by the time Gunner got there. Poor guy! In this Texas heat, that's not safe at all. We didn't even think about taking our own water since every other race has provided plenty of support.
Guess they spent all the money on the beer at the end? I'm glad we did it though, and now I feel like I can take on this triathlon and do it!
Pictures to be uploaded soon, we've got some cute ones of the kids and their antics. Em refuses to pose anymore.
Em and I did have the great fingernail debate last week when we went to the nail place and she wanted her nails painted black. We settled on a purplish pink color. No black nails.....ever.....
We were in the car the other day and Abs was telling me all about how Daddy would not buy her the crossword and logic problem book that she wanted. I nodded, and then we continued on driving. About 10 seconds later she told us "I guess if I don't have logic problems to do, I will spend my time catching small animals in Colorado." I guess in her eyes that is a logical replacement? I was thinking more along the lines of reading a book. For being a second grade teacher, I don't understand this second grader much!
The movers come tomorrow morning for our pre-inspection so we are doing a mass cleaning and toss today. I can't believe how fast things are moving, but glad that so far the children are pretty agreeable and haven't voiced too many concerns.
Em is more interested in whether or not she will have her own bathroom. Abs is probably secretly making classification labels for the small animals that she plans to catch, and Junior has totally decided that potty training is not for him.
I can hardly wait to see what tomorrow holds...maybe...
We did our 50 mile bike ride on Saturday. My time was 3 hours 12 minutes. I was hoping for under 3 hours, but I timed the stops and had to pee twice!
This morning we did a 10K obstacle course. Gunner and I were signed up as a team for this event. We climbed up ropes, over tall hurdles (not in a single bound), tires, army low crawl (Gunner kicked ass, and me not so much), low hurdles and a tunnel, then finally the rope wall! It was a lot of fun and we did it in 1 hour 17 minutes which isn't bad considering you have to wait sometimes for the obstacles!
They do need to work on the water situation, since there were only two stops and one of them was out of water by the time Gunner got there. Poor guy! In this Texas heat, that's not safe at all. We didn't even think about taking our own water since every other race has provided plenty of support.
Guess they spent all the money on the beer at the end? I'm glad we did it though, and now I feel like I can take on this triathlon and do it!
Pictures to be uploaded soon, we've got some cute ones of the kids and their antics. Em refuses to pose anymore.
Em and I did have the great fingernail debate last week when we went to the nail place and she wanted her nails painted black. We settled on a purplish pink color. No black nails.....ever.....
We were in the car the other day and Abs was telling me all about how Daddy would not buy her the crossword and logic problem book that she wanted. I nodded, and then we continued on driving. About 10 seconds later she told us "I guess if I don't have logic problems to do, I will spend my time catching small animals in Colorado." I guess in her eyes that is a logical replacement? I was thinking more along the lines of reading a book. For being a second grade teacher, I don't understand this second grader much!
The movers come tomorrow morning for our pre-inspection so we are doing a mass cleaning and toss today. I can't believe how fast things are moving, but glad that so far the children are pretty agreeable and haven't voiced too many concerns.
Em is more interested in whether or not she will have her own bathroom. Abs is probably secretly making classification labels for the small animals that she plans to catch, and Junior has totally decided that potty training is not for him.
I can hardly wait to see what tomorrow holds...maybe...
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Seriously?
I can't believe tomorrow is Friday. I have no idea where the time went, but it is flying by...way too fast.
We have a date for the movers, and it is in....two weeks from yesterday. Ummmm....we have a lot to do before then!!! There's children to raise, bags to pack, have to find a place to live till July 8th when I am done with school, and then there's all the other usual PCS stuff. Add in the bike ride and 10K this weekend, three kids, the end of school, a triathlon, a PCS, clearing, and the start of my summer graduate classes......whew. I thrive on being busy I guess.
I had training twice this week. My first one of the week was at the track where we did fartleks. I dreaded it. Thirty minutes of running, with sprints when she blew the whistle. I got started, and it wasn't so bad. By the time I was done with my thirty minutes, I was in love with it! I felt great and got a really good workout. This whole triathlon training has done great things for me! Tonight I had to do bricks with the trainer, and it felt great. I think that is the transition that I worry most about, but I feel better that I can do it and maintain my speed.
My question of the day is...why is my school out of sanitizer and soap for the third day??? I get grossed out thinking about it. I stand outside the bathrooms with a bottle of sanitizer.
I just realized that I never posted this....more about what's happening in a few!
We have a date for the movers, and it is in....two weeks from yesterday. Ummmm....we have a lot to do before then!!! There's children to raise, bags to pack, have to find a place to live till July 8th when I am done with school, and then there's all the other usual PCS stuff. Add in the bike ride and 10K this weekend, three kids, the end of school, a triathlon, a PCS, clearing, and the start of my summer graduate classes......whew. I thrive on being busy I guess.
I had training twice this week. My first one of the week was at the track where we did fartleks. I dreaded it. Thirty minutes of running, with sprints when she blew the whistle. I got started, and it wasn't so bad. By the time I was done with my thirty minutes, I was in love with it! I felt great and got a really good workout. This whole triathlon training has done great things for me! Tonight I had to do bricks with the trainer, and it felt great. I think that is the transition that I worry most about, but I feel better that I can do it and maintain my speed.
My question of the day is...why is my school out of sanitizer and soap for the third day??? I get grossed out thinking about it. I stand outside the bathrooms with a bottle of sanitizer.
I just realized that I never posted this....more about what's happening in a few!
Monday, May 25, 2009
We did it....
After dropping off a carload of stuff at my mom's (don't worry mom there is more coming!), we headed over to REI to look at socks. It seems like every pair gives me a blister unless they are tight in the middle. Of course I can't remember where I bought those socks, and I need them every day, so I wanted a few more pairs. Socks are expensive!
While perusing the aisles, Junior exploded, so we had to go get him a new pair of shorts since of course we had nothing to change him into. Poor little guy. He loves his new shorts, and I just gritted my teeth when I looked at the price tag. I might need to make him wear them every day till he outgrows them and then make sure Tucker wears them every day too!
We had lunch at this hamburger joint--something fine and mighty or along those lines. It was good, and reminded us of the airplane place at California Adventure.
I worked. We came home and I decided we needed to tackle the garage. It was out of control. Gunner's parents took a truckload to store for us, and we have a truckload headed to Goodwill as well. It was crazy the stuff we had in there. I thought I had gotten rid of all the baby stuff, but it was all there. I saved a stroller for my mom and the peek-a-boo blocks for my baby nephew, and the rest is gone. I feel like a HUGE load has been lifted off my shoulders.
Gunner was appreciative too, since he had been putting off facing that mess alone. Of course once we started, it dragged out every kid in the neighborhood looking for handouts. I assured them that their parents would not want them dragging stuff home, so they just sat there and played with all the toys that were in the keep pile. They conveniently disappeared when it was time to clean up, and the kids weren't too happy.
A quick pickup job, a dinner of gizzards, baths, and they are hopefully fast asleep.
Tomorrow Gunner is going to camp out, outside of the transportation office, so that the civilian that works six hours a day can hopefully get us an appointment. I need hours like that! He's the only one too, and apparently works pretty slow, so the line starts forming early.
In other news, I am not buying anything new, anytime soon. The amount of stuff that we have given away, amazes me. I love a good deal, but I think I often buy it just because it is a good deal and not something I really need, want, or love. I wonder where I get that from?
While perusing the aisles, Junior exploded, so we had to go get him a new pair of shorts since of course we had nothing to change him into. Poor little guy. He loves his new shorts, and I just gritted my teeth when I looked at the price tag. I might need to make him wear them every day till he outgrows them and then make sure Tucker wears them every day too!
We had lunch at this hamburger joint--something fine and mighty or along those lines. It was good, and reminded us of the airplane place at California Adventure.
I worked. We came home and I decided we needed to tackle the garage. It was out of control. Gunner's parents took a truckload to store for us, and we have a truckload headed to Goodwill as well. It was crazy the stuff we had in there. I thought I had gotten rid of all the baby stuff, but it was all there. I saved a stroller for my mom and the peek-a-boo blocks for my baby nephew, and the rest is gone. I feel like a HUGE load has been lifted off my shoulders.
Gunner was appreciative too, since he had been putting off facing that mess alone. Of course once we started, it dragged out every kid in the neighborhood looking for handouts. I assured them that their parents would not want them dragging stuff home, so they just sat there and played with all the toys that were in the keep pile. They conveniently disappeared when it was time to clean up, and the kids weren't too happy.
A quick pickup job, a dinner of gizzards, baths, and they are hopefully fast asleep.
Tomorrow Gunner is going to camp out, outside of the transportation office, so that the civilian that works six hours a day can hopefully get us an appointment. I need hours like that! He's the only one too, and apparently works pretty slow, so the line starts forming early.
In other news, I am not buying anything new, anytime soon. The amount of stuff that we have given away, amazes me. I love a good deal, but I think I often buy it just because it is a good deal and not something I really need, want, or love. I wonder where I get that from?
Sunday, May 24, 2009
The purge
still continues here at Fort Hood. I've got piles of stuff to deliver to people. I've got the trash can filled and tons more to go out. One glance and it's gone. Nothing is safe anymore. The kids have run around gathering up their toys and harboring them in their room for safety. Their rooms are next.
I've told each child that they get two rubbermaid buckets to take with them of their "treasures". They looked at me like I had lost it? How could they possibly fit everything in two buckets? I rest my case--you.have.too.much.stuff.
Of course I have to practice what I preach, so all my clothes that don't fit or don't get worn are in a pile to drop off with my mom. She can drop them off with her church or the thrift store or whoever, as long as they are gone.
I'm cleaning out the pantry for the food bank.
If it came from McDonald's, Sonic, Burger King or Subway, it's gone.
If I don't love it, it's gone. There's still a long way to go, and I haven't touched the garage again. but my thinking is....it's all gone. There's only 9 weeks of school left, and I need to get all that stuff packed up and brought home as well. Hopefully we will have a transportation date on Tuesday. We are behind the power curve, so I am sure it won't be anytime soon, but I can hope! Gunner actually mentioned doing a DITY move. I told him to bite his tongue until we hear something from transportation!
No training today, since I needed a day off. We have a 50 mile bike ride on Saturday and the 10K obstacle course on Sunday. Tomorrow if it doesn't rain, we are loading up the kids and going for a bike ride. I think we all have a little cabin fever. Em called me last night at 10 to let me know that they were sleeping at the leader's house because everything was soaked. A good call since it rained almost all day today and they would have been miserable. A miserable pre-teen=a miserable family.
Shepard's pie for dinner, with extra veggies for me!
We are still deciding what to do to honor Memorial Day. There is an event in Austin, we have talked about visiting the memorial for 4th ID, and several other ways to make sure our kids know and understand that Memorial Day has a meaning.
I've told each child that they get two rubbermaid buckets to take with them of their "treasures". They looked at me like I had lost it? How could they possibly fit everything in two buckets? I rest my case--you.have.too.much.stuff.
Of course I have to practice what I preach, so all my clothes that don't fit or don't get worn are in a pile to drop off with my mom. She can drop them off with her church or the thrift store or whoever, as long as they are gone.
I'm cleaning out the pantry for the food bank.
If it came from McDonald's, Sonic, Burger King or Subway, it's gone.
If I don't love it, it's gone. There's still a long way to go, and I haven't touched the garage again. but my thinking is....it's all gone. There's only 9 weeks of school left, and I need to get all that stuff packed up and brought home as well. Hopefully we will have a transportation date on Tuesday. We are behind the power curve, so I am sure it won't be anytime soon, but I can hope! Gunner actually mentioned doing a DITY move. I told him to bite his tongue until we hear something from transportation!
Publish Post
No training today, since I needed a day off. We have a 50 mile bike ride on Saturday and the 10K obstacle course on Sunday. Tomorrow if it doesn't rain, we are loading up the kids and going for a bike ride. I think we all have a little cabin fever. Em called me last night at 10 to let me know that they were sleeping at the leader's house because everything was soaked. A good call since it rained almost all day today and they would have been miserable. A miserable pre-teen=a miserable family.
Shepard's pie for dinner, with extra veggies for me!
We are still deciding what to do to honor Memorial Day. There is an event in Austin, we have talked about visiting the memorial for 4th ID, and several other ways to make sure our kids know and understand that Memorial Day has a meaning.
Saturday, May 23, 2009
Triathlon here we come!
I met my running/walking group from school this morning for another 5K. It's really neat to see all the people that said there was no way they were going to run a 5K or workout or anything, getting out there and moving! There is one girl, who never works out, who just completed her second race. Her husband has the biggest smile on his face, full of pride, as he runs in with her each time, it just melts my heart!
I did okay on the 5K, nothing too outrageous as my friend and I were going to do our practice tri. We headed over to the lake, and the water was freezing! After arranging with a fisher-family to keep an eye on us, we headed out. Ummmm.....I am a strong swimmer, but I did not like my face in the water. My friend was paddling away, and I was doing the sidestroke. She would turn to breathe and I would ask her if it was time to turn around. Then she started laughing because I was floating along and staying ahead of her and coming back around. I finally put my head in the water and it wasn't too bad. I probably would have felt better about it if there were more people out there with us. Plus there was a no swimming sign, and I'm kind of a rules girl. On the way back I did fine, and I was over my fear...sort of...but stayed with my friend cause I wasn't about to be separated and have something happen, even if we had our fisher-family watching us.
We ran in from the swim, transitioned to the bike and took off. I was not doing well with my clips for some reason. I make it up the huge hill, into the ride a few miles, and I look down because I stop moving. My chain had popped off, and I panicked. I was trying to figure out what to do, I couldn't unclip, and over I went......right into the gravel. My friend's husband was following us, and he hopped out and came over. I just put my hands over my face and told myself not to cry! He got me to move my foot to make sure it was okay and then he unclipped me and got the bike off me. He helped me up and fixed my bike for me, I wiped off the blood with a towel and hopped back on. The rest of the almost 12 mile bike ride was uneventful, thank goodness! I did switch back to my tennis shoes and I am having Gunner drop my bike at the shop to get my old pedals put back on! I don't want to do that again for a little while. Funny thing is that I haven't fallen like that in a long time and this was my first time with the clips, but it scared me enough that I am good for a while. Oh well.
We finished up the ride, dropped the bikes and ran or at that point shuffled for a mile. We were proud, happy, and tired. Our first tri is in 15 days, and I feel good about it....and hopefully their lake is a little bit more inviting to me than the one here!
So now I know I can do the entire thing, and I am sure my adrenaline will kick in and keep me going as well.
This week: training x2, swimming, gym, running x4, 50 mile bike ride on Saturday, 10K obstacle course on Sunday. Oh yeah, and a ball on Wednesday night! My friend told me to wear my road rash with honor--my dress has spaghetti straps, so I am sure I will make a lovely impression.
The girls and I are going to have to go get pedicures this week, so maybe Monday? And if it ever stops raining, I want to load up the kids and take them for a bike ride. Pretty soon it will be so hot here we won't want to do anything outside!
Junior was running around yesterday with a blue fairy wand, a green vest and a pink glove on courtesy of his sister--"I'm a witch!". His birthday is coming up, I see army trucks in his future...
P.S. It's storming and Em is camping. Poor baby!
I did okay on the 5K, nothing too outrageous as my friend and I were going to do our practice tri. We headed over to the lake, and the water was freezing! After arranging with a fisher-family to keep an eye on us, we headed out. Ummmm.....I am a strong swimmer, but I did not like my face in the water. My friend was paddling away, and I was doing the sidestroke. She would turn to breathe and I would ask her if it was time to turn around. Then she started laughing because I was floating along and staying ahead of her and coming back around. I finally put my head in the water and it wasn't too bad. I probably would have felt better about it if there were more people out there with us. Plus there was a no swimming sign, and I'm kind of a rules girl. On the way back I did fine, and I was over my fear...sort of...but stayed with my friend cause I wasn't about to be separated and have something happen, even if we had our fisher-family watching us.
We ran in from the swim, transitioned to the bike and took off. I was not doing well with my clips for some reason. I make it up the huge hill, into the ride a few miles, and I look down because I stop moving. My chain had popped off, and I panicked. I was trying to figure out what to do, I couldn't unclip, and over I went......right into the gravel. My friend's husband was following us, and he hopped out and came over. I just put my hands over my face and told myself not to cry! He got me to move my foot to make sure it was okay and then he unclipped me and got the bike off me. He helped me up and fixed my bike for me, I wiped off the blood with a towel and hopped back on. The rest of the almost 12 mile bike ride was uneventful, thank goodness! I did switch back to my tennis shoes and I am having Gunner drop my bike at the shop to get my old pedals put back on! I don't want to do that again for a little while. Funny thing is that I haven't fallen like that in a long time and this was my first time with the clips, but it scared me enough that I am good for a while. Oh well.
We finished up the ride, dropped the bikes and ran or at that point shuffled for a mile. We were proud, happy, and tired. Our first tri is in 15 days, and I feel good about it....and hopefully their lake is a little bit more inviting to me than the one here!
So now I know I can do the entire thing, and I am sure my adrenaline will kick in and keep me going as well.
This week: training x2, swimming, gym, running x4, 50 mile bike ride on Saturday, 10K obstacle course on Sunday. Oh yeah, and a ball on Wednesday night! My friend told me to wear my road rash with honor--my dress has spaghetti straps, so I am sure I will make a lovely impression.
The girls and I are going to have to go get pedicures this week, so maybe Monday? And if it ever stops raining, I want to load up the kids and take them for a bike ride. Pretty soon it will be so hot here we won't want to do anything outside!
Junior was running around yesterday with a blue fairy wand, a green vest and a pink glove on courtesy of his sister--"I'm a witch!". His birthday is coming up, I see army trucks in his future...
P.S. It's storming and Em is camping. Poor baby!
Friday, May 22, 2009
Where did the day go?
I took off today so that I could take Ab's to her doctor appointment that we have been waiting for, forever. I got up and the phone rang.....her doctor canceled, again. I was furious! I tried not to shoot the messenger, and I managed to get across how much we needed to see the doctor. She understood my urgency thankfully. Of course the doctor didn't get that, so I ended up calling back this afternoon, and she put me on hold so she could call the doctor at home. The doctor finally called me back, and we got things straightened out with Abs. Hopefully it will be smooth sailing for my baby girl now.
We did manage to return the RV to Gunner's parents and try out the new mexican restaurant in the mall. It was okay. I LOVE mexican food. My plate was hot but my food was not. My taco was stale, and rice and beans didn't come with the meal. I would at least try it again before I would veto it altogether.
I got my bike shoes adjusted, and almost fell over in the car wash parking lot while the guy came out to watch me try them out. Smooth move. I forgot I was clipped in and put on the brakes.
Oh, and my big news??? After lunch we ran down to Victoria's Secret so I could get fitted for a new bra. The girls finally shrunk! About time!!! I also had to buy new jeans so I would have some that weren't falling off of me.....Take my original size and divide by 2 and you have my new size! Hard to believe!!! I still eat, but I make much better choices, and my fudge this morning to top off my breakfast didn't hurt. (One of my parents made homemade fudge for me and homemade peanut butter cups....yum!) Tonight it is a jaunt on the trainer to make sure my shoes are okay, and tomorrow a 5K. After the 5K my training partner and I are going to run a triathlon by ourselves just to try it out. The swim is still up in the air, depending on the temp of the water. We are also hoping that it doesn't rain!
No wonder I fall into bed exhausted each night!
We did manage to return the RV to Gunner's parents and try out the new mexican restaurant in the mall. It was okay. I LOVE mexican food. My plate was hot but my food was not. My taco was stale, and rice and beans didn't come with the meal. I would at least try it again before I would veto it altogether.
I got my bike shoes adjusted, and almost fell over in the car wash parking lot while the guy came out to watch me try them out. Smooth move. I forgot I was clipped in and put on the brakes.
Oh, and my big news??? After lunch we ran down to Victoria's Secret so I could get fitted for a new bra. The girls finally shrunk! About time!!! I also had to buy new jeans so I would have some that weren't falling off of me.....Take my original size and divide by 2 and you have my new size! Hard to believe!!! I still eat, but I make much better choices, and my fudge this morning to top off my breakfast didn't hurt. (One of my parents made homemade fudge for me and homemade peanut butter cups....yum!) Tonight it is a jaunt on the trainer to make sure my shoes are okay, and tomorrow a 5K. After the 5K my training partner and I are going to run a triathlon by ourselves just to try it out. The swim is still up in the air, depending on the temp of the water. We are also hoping that it doesn't rain!
No wonder I fall into bed exhausted each night!
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Still training...
I did my first tempo run on Monday with my trainer. It felt food, and I feel like I am getting faster. I still need to fit more runs in, especially since I can't run on the treadmill anymore. I don't know if I am just not feeling it or what, but I am starting to prefer the outdoors, just in time for a Texas summer!
Tonight I had training again, this time in the pool. I was worried because I told her that I was strongest in swimming, and I started to think that maybe I wasn't as strong as I thought I was. I warmed up, and she said that the only thing I really needed to work on was taking less strokes, covering the same distance in the same time. We worked on sighting, which was a pain. She did tell me that I needed to start my wave at the front and choose between the inside or the outside. It made me feel good that she thought I was an extremely strong swimmer. Maybe that will make up time in other legs!
Even though school is winding up, I am taking tomorrow off. I need a break after the last three weeks of non-stop teaching, paperwork, parenting, working out, training, and knowing what is to come, I need a day to regroup. Abs has a doctor's appointment in Temple, so I'll take her to that and then try to get in a run with Gunner and Junior.
Tonight, Junior was in his pajamas and came to me and asked me to dance with him. I looked up and he had pulled a purple tutu complete with flower petals in the
middle, up to his chest. He twirled around and then we played ring-around-the-rosey.
Poor Junior. I think Gunner is about to lock up anything pink or purple. I guess I need to find some boy dress up clothes for the kiddo!
Tonight I had training again, this time in the pool. I was worried because I told her that I was strongest in swimming, and I started to think that maybe I wasn't as strong as I thought I was. I warmed up, and she said that the only thing I really needed to work on was taking less strokes, covering the same distance in the same time. We worked on sighting, which was a pain. She did tell me that I needed to start my wave at the front and choose between the inside or the outside. It made me feel good that she thought I was an extremely strong swimmer. Maybe that will make up time in other legs!
Even though school is winding up, I am taking tomorrow off. I need a break after the last three weeks of non-stop teaching, paperwork, parenting, working out, training, and knowing what is to come, I need a day to regroup. Abs has a doctor's appointment in Temple, so I'll take her to that and then try to get in a run with Gunner and Junior.
Tonight, Junior was in his pajamas and came to me and asked me to dance with him. I looked up and he had pulled a purple tutu complete with flower petals in the
middle, up to his chest. He twirled around and then we played ring-around-the-rosey.
Poor Junior. I think Gunner is about to lock up anything pink or purple. I guess I need to find some boy dress up clothes for the kiddo!
Monday, May 18, 2009
Pink Boots & Camo
Dresses, Moving, & Life
My friend Abbey and I went shopping on Saturday night and we found the perfect dress! My husband's only request was that it not be black, and for once, it isn't. Abbey was great company, always makes me laugh, and we had the best meal at the Monument Cafe in Georgetown on the way home. I'm always worried when I take someone to one of my favorite restaurants, but she either truly liked it or is a good faker. :)
Today Gunner tried to go to transportation. They have moved so many people all over Hood that I've found I often have to go from the original location to the new location, to the newest location. He'll try again tomorrow.
Of course it was complicated with a baby boy with extreme diarrhea who is now kicked out of daycare until we can get him into the doctor. Thank goodness my MIL was available today and tomorrow since half of my grade level is out because of family emergencies. He'll be in good hands, and Gunner can take him to the doctor to get checked out. It's been going on for a while, so hopefully it is not something that he is allergic to that we don't know about yet. Poor baby boy. He acts fine though, and at this point I am thankful he is still in diapers!
My triathlon training partner and I are going to do a mini-triathlon this weekend. We are doing a 5k in the morning, then we will do an open water swim, bike 12 miles, and do a 1.5 mile run. We've recruited our open water swim supervisors, planned our route, and are ready to practice our transitions. It's all in fun, and I know we will have a good time figuring it all out.
In just over a month, Junior will be three. Where did the time go?
I could just squish those cheeks
Throwing rocks instead of fishing...
Camping with his cowlick...
Today Gunner tried to go to transportation. They have moved so many people all over Hood that I've found I often have to go from the original location to the new location, to the newest location. He'll try again tomorrow.
Of course it was complicated with a baby boy with extreme diarrhea who is now kicked out of daycare until we can get him into the doctor. Thank goodness my MIL was available today and tomorrow since half of my grade level is out because of family emergencies. He'll be in good hands, and Gunner can take him to the doctor to get checked out. It's been going on for a while, so hopefully it is not something that he is allergic to that we don't know about yet. Poor baby boy. He acts fine though, and at this point I am thankful he is still in diapers!
My triathlon training partner and I are going to do a mini-triathlon this weekend. We are doing a 5k in the morning, then we will do an open water swim, bike 12 miles, and do a 1.5 mile run. We've recruited our open water swim supervisors, planned our route, and are ready to practice our transitions. It's all in fun, and I know we will have a good time figuring it all out.
In just over a month, Junior will be three. Where did the time go?
I could just squish those cheeks
Throwing rocks instead of fishing...
Camping with his cowlick...
Saturday, May 16, 2009
The search for the perfect dress...
is not going so well. I went to JC Penney's--it was raining and close--and there was nothing. I asked the lady working if they had a bigger selection, and she took me down to Junior's.
She showed me the prom dresses and then chose three that she "thought" would be perfect for me. Oh, and the saleslady was so excited because it was buy one prom dress get the other for half off. I could hardly contain my excitement.
I do not wear flowers.
I do not wear yellow.
I do not wear teenage prom dresses.
The old me would have tried them on to appease her.
I told her that while they were beautiful, I thought that they were a little young for me. She seemed shock. I am 36, not 16!
So I am back to square 1.
All my old dresses don't fit.
I've got a week and a half to find a great dress at a great price. Wish me luck!
She showed me the prom dresses and then chose three that she "thought" would be perfect for me. Oh, and the saleslady was so excited because it was buy one prom dress get the other for half off. I could hardly contain my excitement.
I do not wear flowers.
I do not wear yellow.
I do not wear teenage prom dresses.
The old me would have tried them on to appease her.
I told her that while they were beautiful, I thought that they were a little young for me. She seemed shock. I am 36, not 16!
So I am back to square 1.
All my old dresses don't fit.
I've got a week and a half to find a great dress at a great price. Wish me luck!
Wet Weekend
At the 5K this morning it started to sprinkle those HUGE Texas drops. By the time I was finished and strategically posted by a tall truck, the rain came down. Gunner had the keys, so I just attempted to stay dry, and would run into the rain to cheer on my friends! It was a lot of fun and while the pain in my legs was still there, I worked on my form and got one of my best times! By the end, Gunner and I were both waterlogged and freezing. Totally worth it though!
I timed myself for the swim portion of the triathlon last Thursday. I didn't push off the walls (I flipped out just far enough to touch the wall with my toes), didn't go but probably at 50%, and was not out of breath when I finished. I felt great, and my time was great too, but the swim is the least of my worries.
School is busy, busy, busy.
Life is busy, busy, busy.
Kids are doing great and keeping us on our toes. We've had field days, career days, math & science days.
Abs is supposed to be a pig in the costume. I asked her why she couldn't be a cow since we have a cow costume. Her response was that "I didn't feel the cow when I read the script, I felt the pig."
....my sweet baby girl Abs just came out....naked. She painted her body orange with a stamp pad. Her.entire.body. I think the stamp pad was a gift from her Aunt in St. Louis. The pottery wheel is still a big hit, but they have yet to produce anything. At this point, the Sea Monkeys will die before they make their first $5 on anything.
It's going to be a long day I think.
I timed myself for the swim portion of the triathlon last Thursday. I didn't push off the walls (I flipped out just far enough to touch the wall with my toes), didn't go but probably at 50%, and was not out of breath when I finished. I felt great, and my time was great too, but the swim is the least of my worries.
School is busy, busy, busy.
Life is busy, busy, busy.
Kids are doing great and keeping us on our toes. We've had field days, career days, math & science days.
Abs is supposed to be a pig in the costume. I asked her why she couldn't be a cow since we have a cow costume. Her response was that "I didn't feel the cow when I read the script, I felt the pig."
....my sweet baby girl Abs just came out....naked. She painted her body orange with a stamp pad. Her.entire.body. I think the stamp pad was a gift from her Aunt in St. Louis. The pottery wheel is still a big hit, but they have yet to produce anything. At this point, the Sea Monkeys will die before they make their first $5 on anything.
It's going to be a long day I think.
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Home from the trainer
I met my trainer at the track today. I need to get off the treadmill and hit the road. I worked on my technique, which she said was good, but I was a little off on where I strike when I land. I changed it slightly and can feel it in my legs. Let's hope that the rest of my runs help it get strong and fast.
We talked tri.
She assured me I would not come in last. I know I won't come in first (yet) but I also know that my strongest will be the swim, and that's where I think a lot of people are weak. At least I am hoping that they are! I'm no runner like my friend Catherine or bloggers DAR or JLC, but I'm working on it! I'll be searching the internet for more running information.
I have training tomorrow too.
I am supposed to swim tomorrow too after school. Today Em and I stayed after school and I cranked out grades and reading stuff, and organized some files. I need another 57 hours in each day so I can catch up.
We have a ball coming up. I am still thinking about going. I'll have to find a dress and make sure I don't have training that night. I'll have to get the fro tamed too. I'm thinking about getting a haircut (I probably get one once a year) and getting it straightened--just until I wash it.
Junior has learned his basic shapes. He knew them before when he saw them, but now he applies that to everything he sees--his feet are rectangles, his belly button is a circle....the list goes on. It's amazing how much his speech has developed since he got tubes in his ears.
I do have training on the night of the ball, which is still on a Wednesday I might add. Who the heck planned that? So much of what the army does, makes no sense to me. After this long, it shouldn't surprise me anymore.
Two more days left this week!!!
We talked tri.
She assured me I would not come in last. I know I won't come in first (yet) but I also know that my strongest will be the swim, and that's where I think a lot of people are weak. At least I am hoping that they are! I'm no runner like my friend Catherine or bloggers DAR or JLC, but I'm working on it! I'll be searching the internet for more running information.
I have training tomorrow too.
I am supposed to swim tomorrow too after school. Today Em and I stayed after school and I cranked out grades and reading stuff, and organized some files. I need another 57 hours in each day so I can catch up.
We have a ball coming up. I am still thinking about going. I'll have to find a dress and make sure I don't have training that night. I'll have to get the fro tamed too. I'm thinking about getting a haircut (I probably get one once a year) and getting it straightened--just until I wash it.
Junior has learned his basic shapes. He knew them before when he saw them, but now he applies that to everything he sees--his feet are rectangles, his belly button is a circle....the list goes on. It's amazing how much his speech has developed since he got tubes in his ears.
I do have training on the night of the ball, which is still on a Wednesday I might add. Who the heck planned that? So much of what the army does, makes no sense to me. After this long, it shouldn't surprise me anymore.
Two more days left this week!!!
Tuesday Already?
I don't know how it is Tuesday already. Days are just flying by.....way too fast.
Gunner made me sit down with him and put all my information on his calendar. After we got done, he just looked at me, sat down and asked me if I knew how busy I was. The thought has crossed my mind as I race from one event to another. But, I didn't have time to dwell on it as I needed to blog and write a 10 page paper after playing with the kids.
I've got a killer headache that I just can't shake. My training partner and I skipped out on the pool today. I'm falling behind at work because I leave right after school is out. It's not horrible, but I did have a pile of papers to grade and get entered. I wanted to make sure I had everything planned out for grades for the rest of the 9 weeks, and I wanted to make sure that I had enough "hands on" stuff available. It's the end of the year, the kids get a little crazy, and sometimes we just need to change things up so that we can keep it interesting to them.
We had a great Mother's Day. I was up at 6 and couldn't sleep anymore. That was not in the cards.
I worked my second job. We went to Panera for lunch. Hit up REI, wandered over to Whole Foods, and ended up with a 12 mile bike ride and a whole red snapper for dinner.
Gunner almost got run over on the bike ride. Thankfully it was him that they almost hit because he has the training to be calm, react, and then move on. A car was barreling down the road and Gunner was going straight, the other direction. The truck tried to turn in front of him, realized that they wouldn't make it, and slammed their brakes on, and hit gravel.
So Gunner puts his hand on the car as all this was happening to push off from him and get out of his way since he was clipped in. He kept his cool, he was fine. The driver was terrified though. If this had been me, I would have panicked, tried to unsuccessfully unclip, probably run into the truck before he ran into me and been dead.
......Realized I didn't post this yesterday. I start training again tonight. We are doing speedwork tonight, which should be fun? Okay, I am hoping at least.
School is crazy and I am swamped. Kids are great. 5K this weekend. 5k next weekend and my training partner and I are going to do a practice triathlon followed by a Starbucks visit. Sounds good to me!
And we got orders....real orders...paper ones.
Gunner made me sit down with him and put all my information on his calendar. After we got done, he just looked at me, sat down and asked me if I knew how busy I was. The thought has crossed my mind as I race from one event to another. But, I didn't have time to dwell on it as I needed to blog and write a 10 page paper after playing with the kids.
I've got a killer headache that I just can't shake. My training partner and I skipped out on the pool today. I'm falling behind at work because I leave right after school is out. It's not horrible, but I did have a pile of papers to grade and get entered. I wanted to make sure I had everything planned out for grades for the rest of the 9 weeks, and I wanted to make sure that I had enough "hands on" stuff available. It's the end of the year, the kids get a little crazy, and sometimes we just need to change things up so that we can keep it interesting to them.
We had a great Mother's Day. I was up at 6 and couldn't sleep anymore. That was not in the cards.
I worked my second job. We went to Panera for lunch. Hit up REI, wandered over to Whole Foods, and ended up with a 12 mile bike ride and a whole red snapper for dinner.
Gunner almost got run over on the bike ride. Thankfully it was him that they almost hit because he has the training to be calm, react, and then move on. A car was barreling down the road and Gunner was going straight, the other direction. The truck tried to turn in front of him, realized that they wouldn't make it, and slammed their brakes on, and hit gravel.
So Gunner puts his hand on the car as all this was happening to push off from him and get out of his way since he was clipped in. He kept his cool, he was fine. The driver was terrified though. If this had been me, I would have panicked, tried to unsuccessfully unclip, probably run into the truck before he ran into me and been dead.
......Realized I didn't post this yesterday. I start training again tonight. We are doing speedwork tonight, which should be fun? Okay, I am hoping at least.
School is crazy and I am swamped. Kids are great. 5K this weekend. 5k next weekend and my training partner and I are going to do a practice triathlon followed by a Starbucks visit. Sounds good to me!
And we got orders....real orders...paper ones.
Saturday, May 9, 2009
The 10K
I survived again. Right off the bat they had a massive hill. I started to run up it, but then looked up and saw that EVERYONE was walking, so I walked too. I could barely walk up it!
The course was beautiful and the people were extremely nice. There were some loops arounds, so I managed to see Gunner and Junior once. Junior waved and cheered me on. Gunner said Junior was great, but was ready to get out about mile 5.
I placed 5th. I was hoping for a little bit better position, but overall they had 500 people there that participated in the 10K and the 5K, and the hills were rough. Not sure how many were in my age group for the 10K as we didn't stick around to see all the results.
Overall, it was fun and I feel great. 5K next week!
The course was beautiful and the people were extremely nice. There were some loops arounds, so I managed to see Gunner and Junior once. Junior waved and cheered me on. Gunner said Junior was great, but was ready to get out about mile 5.
I placed 5th. I was hoping for a little bit better position, but overall they had 500 people there that participated in the 10K and the 5K, and the hills were rough. Not sure how many were in my age group for the 10K as we didn't stick around to see all the results.
Overall, it was fun and I feel great. 5K next week!
Friday, May 8, 2009
I will survive...
I survived Field Day. For 7 hours I led 20 students around and made sure that no one injured themselves, and that everyone had a good time.
I got injured. I broke my wedding ring and it gashed my finger, on the tug-of-war game. Ouch! It already looks like it is getting a little infected, but I am hoping for the best.
After school, I met with my training partner and we hit the pool. Today was sprints day. We were both so exhausted that I don't think we were sprinting as fast as we could have.
We picked up our packets for the 10K tomorrow.
I'm going to put together my running playlist tonight. I've got to get some good music to keep me going as this course is a lot hillier than what i am used to.
A conversation just overheard:
Em: Don't eat the butter.
Junior: But it looks tasty.
We can't keep him out of the butter.
I got a whole collection of Burt's Bees products today from one of my students for Teacher Appreciation week. I absolutely love the products, but they are always something that I will never spend the money on because I keep thinking that I could save the money and use it for the kids. So I was shocked and happy to get something so great! Add to it the cookies, apples, cookie cake, letters, cards, bookmarks, school supplies and the half used apple lip gloss and I was in heaven! I really have the sweetest bunch of kids, and I love my job which is always good.
I thought I would have an early bedtime, but it's almost 10 and I have my running clothes in the washer. Ugh.
P.S. Happy Military Spouse Day!
I got injured. I broke my wedding ring and it gashed my finger, on the tug-of-war game. Ouch! It already looks like it is getting a little infected, but I am hoping for the best.
After school, I met with my training partner and we hit the pool. Today was sprints day. We were both so exhausted that I don't think we were sprinting as fast as we could have.
We picked up our packets for the 10K tomorrow.
I'm going to put together my running playlist tonight. I've got to get some good music to keep me going as this course is a lot hillier than what i am used to.
A conversation just overheard:
Em: Don't eat the butter.
Junior: But it looks tasty.
We can't keep him out of the butter.
I got a whole collection of Burt's Bees products today from one of my students for Teacher Appreciation week. I absolutely love the products, but they are always something that I will never spend the money on because I keep thinking that I could save the money and use it for the kids. So I was shocked and happy to get something so great! Add to it the cookies, apples, cookie cake, letters, cards, bookmarks, school supplies and the half used apple lip gloss and I was in heaven! I really have the sweetest bunch of kids, and I love my job which is always good.
I thought I would have an early bedtime, but it's almost 10 and I have my running clothes in the washer. Ugh.
P.S. Happy Military Spouse Day!
Thursday, May 7, 2009
PCSing
We will soon join the ranks of the starving unless one of us breaks down and goes to the commissary.
The army never switched to making everyone take their pay twice a month. I'm not complaining.
My husband spilled the beans about us moving at my work while having lunch with a coworker. I was not happy. Hopefully this person doesn't breathe a word of it, or Gunner is toast! He didn't get my not so subtle hints to be quiet.
Gunner: When we move to Carson...
Other person: You got orders?
Me: Nope, no orders.
Gunner: Yes we did, we are on the list.
Me: Ummmm....no we aren't, just drop it.
Gunner: I saw the list. We are on it.
Me: (Trying to kick him and give him dirty looks) NO WE AREN'T!
Gunner: I really saw the list.
Me: Whatever. Other person, just don't breathe a word of it.
Sometime I just want to wring his neck.
The army never switched to making everyone take their pay twice a month. I'm not complaining.
My husband spilled the beans about us moving at my work while having lunch with a coworker. I was not happy. Hopefully this person doesn't breathe a word of it, or Gunner is toast! He didn't get my not so subtle hints to be quiet.
Gunner: When we move to Carson...
Other person: You got orders?
Me: Nope, no orders.
Gunner: Yes we did, we are on the list.
Me: Ummmm....no we aren't, just drop it.
Gunner: I saw the list. We are on it.
Me: (Trying to kick him and give him dirty looks) NO WE AREN'T!
Gunner: I really saw the list.
Me: Whatever. Other person, just don't breathe a word of it.
Sometime I just want to wring his neck.
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Random Thoughts
Hit the pool with my triathlon training partner. I swam 2500 yards, and felt fine. I could have gone on forever, so I need to pick up the speed. Today was my endurance swim though.
I then hit the gym and ran 4 miles and biked 8 miles.
I had to drag Em to the pool today and she didn't want to come in, so she sat in the stands, reading, and mouthing to me every time I took a breath that she was "bored", "miserable", and "ready to go". She's going to be a joy as a teenager.
I've been trying to come up with some super easy, super creative mother's day present for my students to make. It's not going so well, and of course I have waited till the last minute.
Field Day is Friday. I hope I am prepared for it!
Another class tomorrow on guided writing. My one on guided reading was great. So much to learn!
Off to bed so I can do it all again tomorrow.
I then hit the gym and ran 4 miles and biked 8 miles.
I had to drag Em to the pool today and she didn't want to come in, so she sat in the stands, reading, and mouthing to me every time I took a breath that she was "bored", "miserable", and "ready to go". She's going to be a joy as a teenager.
I've been trying to come up with some super easy, super creative mother's day present for my students to make. It's not going so well, and of course I have waited till the last minute.
Field Day is Friday. I hope I am prepared for it!
Another class tomorrow on guided writing. My one on guided reading was great. So much to learn!
Off to bed so I can do it all again tomorrow.
Monday, May 4, 2009
Potty Training
Junior did good for a while and then he decided that it was too much trouble.
I posted on facebook that I was hoping my diaper changing days were numbered, but that I doubted it. Lots of people gave us advice--hey I am always open to good advice!
Cheerios in the toilet--Junior was all about that. I described what we were going to do, he got excited, and we went to the kitchen and got the cheerios down. We went back to the bathroom, he pulled down his jeans, got his cute little boxer briefs down, and I handed him the cheerio. Junior threw it in the toilet, then next thing I know he is trying to scoop it out. Germaphobic mom takes over and the cheerio is flushed, said baby boy was washed thoroughly.
Then we had a Potty Party. He wanted to invite all the Mr. Potato Heads. I dressed 6 potato heads with his help, and then he sat down on the little potty. Then he didn't like the way the potato people were arranged, so he was up. Then I got him back on the potty and fed him cheerios. Then he decided the potatos needed to have names and talk. He was back up and grabbing potatos to play with. Of course they aren't held together very well, so then we had to reassemble them.
So then we have the potato people assembled and ready to play with, the cheerios available for feasting, and Junior sitting back on the potty.
After this 45 minute fiasco, we got a little bit of pee. I did what any college educated adult would do, I yelled for his sister and we danced around the living room with potato heads, shrieking for joy.
Junior pulled up his clothes, I fed him an m&m, and then we emptied the potty. I got Junior a cup of water and 15 minutes later tried to get him back on the potty.
We got the potty party potato people ready. We got the cheerios ready. We got a book to read. I asked him if he wanted to go potty again. My cute blonde haired blue eyed baby boy looked at me and told me "That's a TERRIBLE idea Mommy".
Can I quit?
I posted on facebook that I was hoping my diaper changing days were numbered, but that I doubted it. Lots of people gave us advice--hey I am always open to good advice!
Cheerios in the toilet--Junior was all about that. I described what we were going to do, he got excited, and we went to the kitchen and got the cheerios down. We went back to the bathroom, he pulled down his jeans, got his cute little boxer briefs down, and I handed him the cheerio. Junior threw it in the toilet, then next thing I know he is trying to scoop it out. Germaphobic mom takes over and the cheerio is flushed, said baby boy was washed thoroughly.
Then we had a Potty Party. He wanted to invite all the Mr. Potato Heads. I dressed 6 potato heads with his help, and then he sat down on the little potty. Then he didn't like the way the potato people were arranged, so he was up. Then I got him back on the potty and fed him cheerios. Then he decided the potatos needed to have names and talk. He was back up and grabbing potatos to play with. Of course they aren't held together very well, so then we had to reassemble them.
So then we have the potato people assembled and ready to play with, the cheerios available for feasting, and Junior sitting back on the potty.
After this 45 minute fiasco, we got a little bit of pee. I did what any college educated adult would do, I yelled for his sister and we danced around the living room with potato heads, shrieking for joy.
Junior pulled up his clothes, I fed him an m&m, and then we emptied the potty. I got Junior a cup of water and 15 minutes later tried to get him back on the potty.
We got the potty party potato people ready. We got the cheerios ready. We got a book to read. I asked him if he wanted to go potty again. My cute blonde haired blue eyed baby boy looked at me and told me "That's a TERRIBLE idea Mommy".
Can I quit?
Military Wives' Cookbook
Military Spouse Appreciation Day is around the corner--May 8th. I'll be busy with Field Day at my school, but I'm sure Gunner is planning some amazing celebration to thank me for standing by his side for the last 14 1/2 years, 4 year long deployments, and being the mother of our three children. (cough, cough)
Okay, so realistically, I am not one for surprises and I don't like big deals made of most things.
Since marrying Gunner, I have become a huge fan of anything military related in my reading. I devour books filled with military history. I am intrigued by different time periods such as WWII and the Vietnam Era. While at a yard sale I stumbled upon a 4th Infantry Division yearbook. The yearbook was printed while the 4th ID was in Germany, and chronicled the occupation of Germany. I got it for a steal at a buck, and couldn't believe my find. I've studied the pictures of the men and women and wondered what it was like for them to be in Germany during that time.
I was sent a copy of The Military Wives' Cookbook by Carolyn Quick Tillery to review about a month ago. From the first email I received about this book, I was chomping at the bit to receive it in my mailbox.
When I received my copy, I was hooked, because it was stories about women like me--military spouses. Of course it is a cookbook, so I'll get to that part, but the book starts out with an introduction covering military spouses that served from the American Revolution to the Global War on Terrorism today.
The recipes--
Presented in menu format style, each set of recipes is accompanied by a story that relates to it and is evocative of the period...When combined in a recipe and remembrance book, the recipes, narratives, and photographs provide a unique story in American history: her story!
The cookbook is divided into multiple sections: Teas and Coffees; Buffets, Brunches, and Lunches; A Taste of home: Dinner Family Style; Alfresco Dining; Over There: An International Affair; Home for the Holidays and Other Celebrations.
Within each section are numerous recipes and stories about the military spouses, excerpts from letters home and pictures of military spouses from long ago. Of course I had to try out a couple of the recipes, so we made the "homemade walnut brownies" and they were excellent! The recipes are all easy to follow and it looks like most of them can be made with ingredients that I keep on hand.
I've already got another few recipes on the agenda over the next two weeks once we make it to the commissary. Even if you don't like to cook, there are tons of stories and pictures in here as well.
And if you try the Black Forest Cake under the Valentine's Dinner for Lovers menu, let me know how it tastes, my mouth is watering just thinking about it.
Sunday, May 3, 2009
Down, down, down
I am down 32 pounds now!
It helps that if I eat crappy food, I feel crappy, so I try to avoid it.
But I still love homemade peanut butter cookies, warm and soft.
The girls had a great time on the hike today. They even got along for most of the day which is a miracle in itself. We even went out to eat tonight since everyone was in a good mood, and there was still no fighting. Junior and I sat at one table while the girls and Gunner sat at the tall tables.
Junior wouldn't eat his hot dog. Maybe he is finally burned out on them? His current love is yogurt, which he eats several times a day. I hope he left me one for breakfast in the morning.
The girls laugh when I pack my food for the day because I have to eat so much. I usually have a whole wheat eggo with peanut butter, two kiwis or a banana, a yogurt, and a protein shake or cottage cheese or an egg white omelet. I feel like I spend half of my morning eating!
Gunner has one more day of leave left which will be spent waiting for the UPS man and relaxing. I think I need to plan another day off.....the sooner, the better.
It helps that if I eat crappy food, I feel crappy, so I try to avoid it.
But I still love homemade peanut butter cookies, warm and soft.
The girls had a great time on the hike today. They even got along for most of the day which is a miracle in itself. We even went out to eat tonight since everyone was in a good mood, and there was still no fighting. Junior and I sat at one table while the girls and Gunner sat at the tall tables.
Junior wouldn't eat his hot dog. Maybe he is finally burned out on them? His current love is yogurt, which he eats several times a day. I hope he left me one for breakfast in the morning.
The girls laugh when I pack my food for the day because I have to eat so much. I usually have a whole wheat eggo with peanut butter, two kiwis or a banana, a yogurt, and a protein shake or cottage cheese or an egg white omelet. I feel like I spend half of my morning eating!
Gunner has one more day of leave left which will be spent waiting for the UPS man and relaxing. I think I need to plan another day off.....the sooner, the better.
Thank goodness
Since I am done having babies, I am busy getting rid of all of our baby stuff.
The crib and dresser/changing table went last week. Today I am dropping off the fish aquarium thing for the crib, the pack and play, changing pads, and then another stop for tons of clothes for Tucker. I've got cloth diapers put aside for Allison. A pile of girl clothes for Goodwill.
We can almost see in Junior's room, so I know that progress is being made and I won't have to estimate 1000 pounds for his room. Em's room is a different story, and don't even get me started on Abs and the million lego festival that is happening in her room.
Gym is on the agenda today as well. I have been slacking and need to hit it hard in order to be ready for everything that I have coming up!
A trip to the commissary is in order too, but the thought of it being a payday weekend....ugh!
The crib and dresser/changing table went last week. Today I am dropping off the fish aquarium thing for the crib, the pack and play, changing pads, and then another stop for tons of clothes for Tucker. I've got cloth diapers put aside for Allison. A pile of girl clothes for Goodwill.
We can almost see in Junior's room, so I know that progress is being made and I won't have to estimate 1000 pounds for his room. Em's room is a different story, and don't even get me started on Abs and the million lego festival that is happening in her room.
Gym is on the agenda today as well. I have been slacking and need to hit it hard in order to be ready for everything that I have coming up!
A trip to the commissary is in order too, but the thought of it being a payday weekend....ugh!
Saturday, May 2, 2009
Tour de Hood
Today Gunner did a 15 mile bike ride on post. It wasn't a race, but he came in 5th--he's been married to me for 14 1/2 years, of course he knew I would ask! He was going to do the 50 mile ride, but we had plans.
I spent all day in class, but it was the last class of the term. Relief.
Looks like our hiking might get canceled tomorrow due to rain. If it does I guess I will grade papers, pack up more of my classroom, and clean the house. My pile of clothes to get rid of is growing by an alarming rate.
I thought of having a PCS sale, but seriously, who has the time for that? When we left Fort Lewis, I think Gunner made about 6 trips to Goodwill. We need to unload at least 2,000 or more pounds. 6 1/2 years in the same spot and we somehow accumulated way too much stuff. As usual, I will vow not to do that at our next duty station! I'm seriously trying to work on getting a little OCD, but so far it's not being acquired at a fast enough rate!
I spent all day in class, but it was the last class of the term. Relief.
Looks like our hiking might get canceled tomorrow due to rain. If it does I guess I will grade papers, pack up more of my classroom, and clean the house. My pile of clothes to get rid of is growing by an alarming rate.
I thought of having a PCS sale, but seriously, who has the time for that? When we left Fort Lewis, I think Gunner made about 6 trips to Goodwill. We need to unload at least 2,000 or more pounds. 6 1/2 years in the same spot and we somehow accumulated way too much stuff. As usual, I will vow not to do that at our next duty station! I'm seriously trying to work on getting a little OCD, but so far it's not being acquired at a fast enough rate!
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Another race...
Just registered Gunner & I for the Jackrabbit Run 4 Hope 10K tonight. I wonder how Junior will do in the stroller for that long, but he should be okay. It's in just over a week, so I better start hitting the gym since I took a hiatus while everyone was sick so I didn't infect the world.
The run benefits the Hope Pregnancy Crisis Center to help those that need help because they find themselves with an unplanned pregnancy. I know the director and when they first acquired the ultrasound machine there, they needed to practice. I was pregnant with Junior and they invited me to come get a free ultrasound and they would print out a picture for Gunner who was deployed. We didn't find out the sex, by choice, but it was fun seeing the little one kick around on the screen. After Junior was born I donated piles of maternity clothes to their loan closet as a way to pass it on and thank them for the pictures and the ultrasound.
Hmmmmm....I just noticed that they pass out layette items too, I am sure I still have some of that stuff to pass on as well. Time to do the PCS purge!
The run benefits the Hope Pregnancy Crisis Center to help those that need help because they find themselves with an unplanned pregnancy. I know the director and when they first acquired the ultrasound machine there, they needed to practice. I was pregnant with Junior and they invited me to come get a free ultrasound and they would print out a picture for Gunner who was deployed. We didn't find out the sex, by choice, but it was fun seeing the little one kick around on the screen. After Junior was born I donated piles of maternity clothes to their loan closet as a way to pass it on and thank them for the pictures and the ultrasound.
Hmmmmm....I just noticed that they pass out layette items too, I am sure I still have some of that stuff to pass on as well. Time to do the PCS purge!
A good deal
When I decided to become a teacher, I got a lot of encouragement from my friends, my aunt and uncle, my sisters, and my husband and kids. It took a lot of planning because we had to pay for everything out of pocket and it was a huge drain, but one that I was ready to do.
Now you can sign up for the My Career Advancement Account and get up to $6,000 paid for! You can read an article about the program here. Where was this when I was going to school. It will also help with certifications, so I am looking at getting certified for special ed, so maybe I can go this route to keep my costs low? Worth a shot. This wasn't open to spouses in Texas originally, so I am glad to see that they have opened it up to everyone. You need to register by the first week in May, so go for it, what do you have to lose? My dad used to tell me that it was important to him to educate us because it was something that could never be taken away from us. So sign up now, and go after something you have always wanted. If your spouse is deployed, it's even a more ideal time to take advantage of it!
Good luck!
Now you can sign up for the My Career Advancement Account and get up to $6,000 paid for! You can read an article about the program here. Where was this when I was going to school. It will also help with certifications, so I am looking at getting certified for special ed, so maybe I can go this route to keep my costs low? Worth a shot. This wasn't open to spouses in Texas originally, so I am glad to see that they have opened it up to everyone. You need to register by the first week in May, so go for it, what do you have to lose? My dad used to tell me that it was important to him to educate us because it was something that could never be taken away from us. So sign up now, and go after something you have always wanted. If your spouse is deployed, it's even a more ideal time to take advantage of it!
Good luck!
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
I can't wait
Fort Carson or bust. We are on the housing list. I've picked out where I want to live already. We luckily qualify for a 4 bedroom, due to the ages of the girls and the addition of Junior. Who knows where we will actually wind up, but we are hoping to get into housing right away. I don't want any worries other than setting up house, since it's been a long time since we PCSed. We've been here for 6 1/2 years. Yikes! I never thought we would be here that long, but it has served its purpose and it is time to move on. The time with my dad was priceless.
To top it all off my mother told me that I was the most self-absorbed person she knows! Ha! Everyone I have told has gotten a good laugh out of that. It's all good though, and time to move to a new place without all the drama of family. Like one of my kids said, you spend so much time doing for us and everyone else, the only time you ever have is at the gym. Very true, and glad that she realizes that! I think I sneak in a 5 minute shower every once in a while too.
I was back at school today and even hit the pool with my triathlon training partner. We ended up having to share a lane with a GI and he was pretty fast, so we did some sprints together, and that got my heart beating fast. I won too. :) No gym today as I don't think my tummy can handle that yet.
Em feels good about the Science TAKS test, and Abs took a practice test at school today for reading. Abs is also working on a story about a smart mummy and Japanese suicide bombers. Should be an interesting tale!
That missing piece of paper that I couldn't find? I found it after I had to request another one and submit it for a signature. I just can't win! I'm working on organizing everything though. This weekend I have class, Gunner has a bike ride, and the girls and I are going hiking with their Girl Scout troop. The end of the year is going to fly by as things get crazy with everything that is on the schedule.
Oh, and they cancelled the job fair for my school district because of the swine flu. I guess the health department wanted it cancelled because it would draw in people from outside the area and they could bring the disease with them. Crazy!
To top it all off my mother told me that I was the most self-absorbed person she knows! Ha! Everyone I have told has gotten a good laugh out of that. It's all good though, and time to move to a new place without all the drama of family. Like one of my kids said, you spend so much time doing for us and everyone else, the only time you ever have is at the gym. Very true, and glad that she realizes that! I think I sneak in a 5 minute shower every once in a while too.
I was back at school today and even hit the pool with my triathlon training partner. We ended up having to share a lane with a GI and he was pretty fast, so we did some sprints together, and that got my heart beating fast. I won too. :) No gym today as I don't think my tummy can handle that yet.
Em feels good about the Science TAKS test, and Abs took a practice test at school today for reading. Abs is also working on a story about a smart mummy and Japanese suicide bombers. Should be an interesting tale!
That missing piece of paper that I couldn't find? I found it after I had to request another one and submit it for a signature. I just can't win! I'm working on organizing everything though. This weekend I have class, Gunner has a bike ride, and the girls and I are going hiking with their Girl Scout troop. The end of the year is going to fly by as things get crazy with everything that is on the schedule.
Oh, and they cancelled the job fair for my school district because of the swine flu. I guess the health department wanted it cancelled because it would draw in people from outside the area and they could bring the disease with them. Crazy!
It happened....
After Abs got sick Monday night, I managed to make it through TAKS testing on Wednesday, and race home to get sick. It was awful. Two things that were confirmed: 1. I am a horrible sick person and 2. My husband loves me unconditionally.
Thank goodness for #2, and that he was home to help! The only one who hasn't gotten sick was Junior, so maybe he was really throwing up in the tent last Friday and was producing nothing to go with it? Let's hope that this family is on the mend.
I am trying to put together the most ridiculous project while I am laid up in bed. I have to create a math exploration topic with all these different requirements. She provided a great example for a 6th grade class, but for second graders we have a whole other things going on. I have to design activities to go along with it, and while 6th graders could probably deal with dried beans, I imagine my second graders eating them, sucking on them, or sticking them up their nose. I'll just hope for the best.
I do have to drag myself out of bed today to go to a SNAP meeting for Abs. This is where they want to remove her from daycare permanently and send her somewhere else. I have HUGE issues with this for many reasons.
1. FCC--while this is a great option for some people, it is not for me. I had a friend whose daughter was hurt by none of the people that the daycare people investigated, but by the boyfriend the wife had while her husband was deployed. You just never know, and I would never be able to be at ease with that situation.
2. Their second option is they send Abs to a home daycare that is run by staff that also works in the centers. She tried to sell me on this by telling me how Abs can watch tv all day if she wants, and it's a home environment. I don't want Abs watching tv all day, which she will do if given the opportunity. I asked if these places go on field trips like the SAS summer camp does and she said no. So you will take a child with ADHD, coop her up in the house all summer, let her watch tv, and then expect her to behave. Not going to happen.
3. If they tell me that these are my only two options, I am moving to plan B. I had a friend that put her daughter in a great summer daycamp in Salado. It cost big bucks, but was wonderful, and I will go with that option. The thought of driving to Salado every day is less than inviting, but will happen if that is the choice I am faced with....
......Took a nap and forgot to finish up. I went to the meeting, and they do not find me funny. Imagine that. Anway, Abs can go to the regular summer camp, and the community health nurse said that Abs should have bitten that kid if he was holding her down. We HAVE to enroll her in EFMP this time, and Junior too with his egg allergy. I still don't agree with that, but.....
The big news????? We don't have orders yet, because they are handing them out on their first day back to work, but we do have a reporting date of July 10th.
Let the PCS stories begin.....
Thank goodness for #2, and that he was home to help! The only one who hasn't gotten sick was Junior, so maybe he was really throwing up in the tent last Friday and was producing nothing to go with it? Let's hope that this family is on the mend.
I am trying to put together the most ridiculous project while I am laid up in bed. I have to create a math exploration topic with all these different requirements. She provided a great example for a 6th grade class, but for second graders we have a whole other things going on. I have to design activities to go along with it, and while 6th graders could probably deal with dried beans, I imagine my second graders eating them, sucking on them, or sticking them up their nose. I'll just hope for the best.
I do have to drag myself out of bed today to go to a SNAP meeting for Abs. This is where they want to remove her from daycare permanently and send her somewhere else. I have HUGE issues with this for many reasons.
1. FCC--while this is a great option for some people, it is not for me. I had a friend whose daughter was hurt by none of the people that the daycare people investigated, but by the boyfriend the wife had while her husband was deployed. You just never know, and I would never be able to be at ease with that situation.
2. Their second option is they send Abs to a home daycare that is run by staff that also works in the centers. She tried to sell me on this by telling me how Abs can watch tv all day if she wants, and it's a home environment. I don't want Abs watching tv all day, which she will do if given the opportunity. I asked if these places go on field trips like the SAS summer camp does and she said no. So you will take a child with ADHD, coop her up in the house all summer, let her watch tv, and then expect her to behave. Not going to happen.
3. If they tell me that these are my only two options, I am moving to plan B. I had a friend that put her daughter in a great summer daycamp in Salado. It cost big bucks, but was wonderful, and I will go with that option. The thought of driving to Salado every day is less than inviting, but will happen if that is the choice I am faced with....
......Took a nap and forgot to finish up. I went to the meeting, and they do not find me funny. Imagine that. Anway, Abs can go to the regular summer camp, and the community health nurse said that Abs should have bitten that kid if he was holding her down. We HAVE to enroll her in EFMP this time, and Junior too with his egg allergy. I still don't agree with that, but.....
The big news????? We don't have orders yet, because they are handing them out on their first day back to work, but we do have a reporting date of July 10th.
Let the PCS stories begin.....
Monday, April 27, 2009
Oh no!
Em started throwing up last night. Then Gunner started having other issues. They both were home today and I banished them to Em's room for the rest of the night. I sprayed down everything they could have possibly touched, and now Abs and Junior and I are watching tv on the freshly lysoled couch.
Gunner said he was going to start a blog and blog about me and my obsession with lysol, sick diets, and quarantining people.
I have to be at school tomorrow! At least he can take care of anyone who doesn't go. I have my sheets being washed in hot water again. I finally found a shoppette with chicken noodle soup. I tracked down some crackers, and got some diet sprite. Sick diet, here we come!
I didn't sleep well at all last night, so I am tired and hoping everyone goes to bed early tonight.
I guess at least it isn't the swine flu!
Gunner said he was going to start a blog and blog about me and my obsession with lysol, sick diets, and quarantining people.
I have to be at school tomorrow! At least he can take care of anyone who doesn't go. I have my sheets being washed in hot water again. I finally found a shoppette with chicken noodle soup. I tracked down some crackers, and got some diet sprite. Sick diet, here we come!
I didn't sleep well at all last night, so I am tired and hoping everyone goes to bed early tonight.
I guess at least it isn't the swine flu!
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Cleaning House
I have piles of clothes to get rid of. It's an obscene amount, and this was just the first purge. More to follow. I haven't even attacked Junior's closet which is full of my clothes.
I'm not ready for school tomorrow. I need another couple of days off.
I have class on the 2nd, so I need to crank out a paper, a project and and evaluation.
I went to my classroom today to search for a paper with a signature that I have managed to lose. I don't know where I put it. I'm sure somewhere safe, or it got mixed up with all the millions of papers that I have. All I know is that I HAVE to find it tomorrow or I am in trouble!!!! I'm sure I will have nightmares tonight about not finding it. I have got to learn to be more organized. It's driving me nuts and costing me too much time!
I wonder if I can go from the most unorganized person on the planet to OCD in just a few days? It needs to happen and fast.
I went back to the campsite this morning and Gunner cooked up bacon and pancakes for breakfast. I brought home two dirty little kids and got them cleaned up. Gunner took the kids skating this afternoon while I was working/searching and by 7 they were all exhausted.
I'm not far behind....
I'm not ready for school tomorrow. I need another couple of days off.
I have class on the 2nd, so I need to crank out a paper, a project and and evaluation.
I went to my classroom today to search for a paper with a signature that I have managed to lose. I don't know where I put it. I'm sure somewhere safe, or it got mixed up with all the millions of papers that I have. All I know is that I HAVE to find it tomorrow or I am in trouble!!!! I'm sure I will have nightmares tonight about not finding it. I have got to learn to be more organized. It's driving me nuts and costing me too much time!
I wonder if I can go from the most unorganized person on the planet to OCD in just a few days? It needs to happen and fast.
I went back to the campsite this morning and Gunner cooked up bacon and pancakes for breakfast. I brought home two dirty little kids and got them cleaned up. Gunner took the kids skating this afternoon while I was working/searching and by 7 they were all exhausted.
I'm not far behind....
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