I've been busy running around to the campsite, to class, back to the campsite, home....you get the picture. They are still out there and it rained most of the day. They are filthy and happy. More on that later.
I almost forgot to tell you what happened on Friday.
My phone rings during class cause I once again forgot to shut off my ringer. I was giving directions so I silenced it without looking. I finished up and then checked called id, and it was Ab's school.
I start imagining what is happening there.
I check my messages and it is the school nurse and she sounds urgent and tells me to call immediately, and that she was going to try the school.
Worries me more.
I call back within 30 seconds and get the nurse.
Me: Hi, this is Ab's mom, you just left a voicemail and I am returning your phone call.
Nurse: (still sounding urgent) Yes, we have Abs in the office and she's been exposed to pepperoni.
Me: Pepperoni? Seriously?
Nurse: Yes, she told me that she is deathly allergic to it, but I don't see record of it.
Me: To Pepperoni? As in the stuff on pizza? (in disbelief)
Nurse: She is itching and her throat is scratchy. Does she have an epi pen? Does she take medication? Do we need to medevac her out?
Me: We are talking about Abs _______ right?
Nurse: Yes
Me: She's not allergic to pepperoni.
Nurse: What?
Me: No, she's not allergic to it, she went on a field trip on Wednesday and someone had pepperoni pizza and then touched her and Abs decided she was allergic to it and she was itchy. Go figure, I have no idea.
Nurse: she's really scratching and it's red
Me: I imagine it is, if she is scratching it. She's not allergic to pepperoni, and if she was she shouldn't have eaten it. Send her back to class, she's fine.
Nurse: (starting to relax) Do you want to talk to her?
Me: Oh yeah.
Abs: Hello? (said in a weak sickly voice)
Me: Hey Abs, heard you ingested a little pepperoni
Abs: Yes, and I am allergic to it.
Me: No you aren't, but you freaked out the nurse
Abs: I really am allergic to it.
Me: Then drink a cup of water, go to the bathroom and you will be cured?
Abs: Are you kidding?
Me: No, get back to class and no more pepperoni.
Abs: Okay. (defeated)
I do listen to my students when they say that they are allergic to something. Once one told me he couldn't eat fish, so I called the nurse, and she said he could. I called the parent who freaked out and said he was deathly allergic to it and raced up to the school. I guess you can never be too safe. I did assure the nurse that if Abs was allergic to anything that I would make sure her teacher and the school was notified.
Once when Em spent the night with a neighbor girl at our old house, they served baked potatoes. She told the mom that she was allergic to them and asked for mashed potatoes instead. The mom was apologetic the next day that she almost gave her a baked potato.
If anyone asks, I must be allergic to celery.
Saturday, April 18, 2009
Friday, April 17, 2009
They are really going
It's pouring down rain outside. It was hailing earlier.
The kids are busy loading everything up and running through the rain. Junior is hanging out in the housecar.
I tried to pack their clothes and Gunner told me I was packing too much. Apparently they need to rough it.
I was trying to pack too many blankets.
Abs has her Daddy Doll and her stuffed dog. Em has her American Girl doll. Junior has two fuffies, a pillow and a stuffed something or another.
They are having chili dogs tonight. Apparently the outlaws are going out there to have dinner with them....in the rain. They are cooking chili dogs, over the fire. Apparently the awning from the RV is going to be enough? Tomorrow morning they are having camp donuts (from scratch mind you), fruit, sausage and something else over the fire. I have the feeling by the time breakfast is done, it will be time for lunch. They are making chicken and dumplings over the campfire tomorrow night. Sunday morning they are having bacon and pancakes. They are having sandwiches for lunch both days. Smores are of course on the menu.
Gunner bought a hibachi and is planning on putting rocks all around it, so they can feel like they are camping out and roughing it. Did I mention that I love this guy????
I really wish I could be out there the whole trip, because I am sure it would be a great adventure! I am sending my canon rebel so that he can document the times that I am not out there.
He's so excited. The kids are excited. I'm excited for them! More to come...
The kids are busy loading everything up and running through the rain. Junior is hanging out in the housecar.
I tried to pack their clothes and Gunner told me I was packing too much. Apparently they need to rough it.
I was trying to pack too many blankets.
Abs has her Daddy Doll and her stuffed dog. Em has her American Girl doll. Junior has two fuffies, a pillow and a stuffed something or another.
They are having chili dogs tonight. Apparently the outlaws are going out there to have dinner with them....in the rain. They are cooking chili dogs, over the fire. Apparently the awning from the RV is going to be enough? Tomorrow morning they are having camp donuts (from scratch mind you), fruit, sausage and something else over the fire. I have the feeling by the time breakfast is done, it will be time for lunch. They are making chicken and dumplings over the campfire tomorrow night. Sunday morning they are having bacon and pancakes. They are having sandwiches for lunch both days. Smores are of course on the menu.
Gunner bought a hibachi and is planning on putting rocks all around it, so they can feel like they are camping out and roughing it. Did I mention that I love this guy????
I really wish I could be out there the whole trip, because I am sure it would be a great adventure! I am sending my canon rebel so that he can document the times that I am not out there.
He's so excited. The kids are excited. I'm excited for them! More to come...
Thursday, April 16, 2009
The Big Camping Trip
The first camping trip with all three kiddos is a go for tomorrow.
There is an 80% chance of rain. I have class, so I am going to go out there, have dinner, hang out, and then head home so I can finish up my homework and such.
I'll head back out there on Saturday, after class, when there is only a 40% chance of rain.
Gunner sent me a text today that gave all the percentages for the chance of rain, and then asked me if it was okay if he took the kids because he really, really, really, really wanted to go camping. How can I say no?
The RV has most of the bare essentials packed. The meal plan was made, changed, rearranged, and purchased today.
Sleeping arrangements have been created and he has even had all the kids out there to make sure everyone would fit in a trial run. Apparently if I come then Junior has to sleep in the playpen because there will be no room in the bed. I don't see how there will be room for anyone in the bed, at least if you are wanting a good night sleep! It's all good though, and I will go out on Saturday and spend the night since on Sunday there is only a 30% chance of rain.
Gunner has the map printed out, and the bathrooms highlighted even though the RV has one. He knows where all the playgrounds are and where he wants to go fishing. He bought a minnow bucket today and was on cloud nine. Ummmmm......he went fishing while we were stationed at Fort Lewis, spent like 8 hours out there and returned home with a few trout. By the time he skinned them, I couldn't eat them and we didn't know how to cook them correctly. I've gotten a lot more adventurous since then and as long as it is cooked and not celery or chow mein noodles I can eat it!
Oh, and the only one without a cold is Em.
So we will be out in the rain, already sick, trying to camp, and hopefully having the time of our lives so that Gunner will want to take us out again. He's started a camping book where he is compiling all the information, and where he will add all the things we will change next time. He is so unlike me. I try to be organized, but truth be told I will always overpack and probably still have to make a run to Walmart at least twice.
It will be fun. And worst case scenario, we are stuck in a small RV with three screaming kids, a bathroom that I know is clean, a DVD player and a microwave....and did I mention air conditioning?
I might need to pack a set of earplugs, a camera, and a triathlon book for good measure.
There is an 80% chance of rain. I have class, so I am going to go out there, have dinner, hang out, and then head home so I can finish up my homework and such.
I'll head back out there on Saturday, after class, when there is only a 40% chance of rain.
Gunner sent me a text today that gave all the percentages for the chance of rain, and then asked me if it was okay if he took the kids because he really, really, really, really wanted to go camping. How can I say no?
The RV has most of the bare essentials packed. The meal plan was made, changed, rearranged, and purchased today.
Sleeping arrangements have been created and he has even had all the kids out there to make sure everyone would fit in a trial run. Apparently if I come then Junior has to sleep in the playpen because there will be no room in the bed. I don't see how there will be room for anyone in the bed, at least if you are wanting a good night sleep! It's all good though, and I will go out on Saturday and spend the night since on Sunday there is only a 30% chance of rain.
Gunner has the map printed out, and the bathrooms highlighted even though the RV has one. He knows where all the playgrounds are and where he wants to go fishing. He bought a minnow bucket today and was on cloud nine. Ummmmm......he went fishing while we were stationed at Fort Lewis, spent like 8 hours out there and returned home with a few trout. By the time he skinned them, I couldn't eat them and we didn't know how to cook them correctly. I've gotten a lot more adventurous since then and as long as it is cooked and not celery or chow mein noodles I can eat it!
Oh, and the only one without a cold is Em.
So we will be out in the rain, already sick, trying to camp, and hopefully having the time of our lives so that Gunner will want to take us out again. He's started a camping book where he is compiling all the information, and where he will add all the things we will change next time. He is so unlike me. I try to be organized, but truth be told I will always overpack and probably still have to make a run to Walmart at least twice.
It will be fun. And worst case scenario, we are stuck in a small RV with three screaming kids, a bathroom that I know is clean, a DVD player and a microwave....and did I mention air conditioning?
I might need to pack a set of earplugs, a camera, and a triathlon book for good measure.
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
The Bug
I was over at Just another Day In Paradise, who recently completed a half-marathon while her husband was deployed. Her husband has been bitten by the running bug and they are currently planning their travels/runs. I love it!
The bug has also bitten Gunner, as on the 2nd of May while I am sitting in class, he will be cruising around Fort Hood on a 50 mile bike ride. He just turned his bike in today to get new pedals, and mine goes in tomorrow. Now to to think about shoes, which I am sure I can locate a good deal online.
I skipped the gym yesterday in order to write a paper. It's still not finished, but the outline is there and I should be able to crank it out today after a trip to the gym.
I think I am catching Ab's cold. I don't have time for this!
I think I may have convinced a fellow teacher to do the triathlon with me. She's just as green as I am.
.......I'm home from the gym...control your excitement. They started this new thing where you have to sign in for a spinning class up to an hour before it begins. Sounds crazy, but people get kind of violent. So far I like it because I can attend the spinning classes now. Junior's daycare provider was going in during lunch to reserve her bike and some people were going before work. That's insane! So I hit an hour spinning class, ran two miles immediately after--ouch!
I heard from said friend of mine from school and she is going to do the triathlon with me, so it makes me feel a little better. She's also the one that I am going to do the San Antonio Rock-n-Roll Half Marathon with as well.
Tomorrow is Ab's big TAG field trip. She's super excited about it. I emailed her teacher and told her that Abs had packed a robe and a stuffed camel. Her teacher made some random announcements today about the field trip and included that robes and stuffed camels were probably not necessary. Abs was disappointed, and told her teacher that I wouldn't buy her a jacket!?!?!?!?! Geez. I ran into her teacher tonight at the gym so she filled me in on Ab's disappointment. I guess if that is all she is getting disappointed about, her life has to be easier than most other 8 year olds.
More details on Gunner's camping obsession are coming soon. The boy is about to drive me crazy! I'm so glad he's home though.
The bug has also bitten Gunner, as on the 2nd of May while I am sitting in class, he will be cruising around Fort Hood on a 50 mile bike ride. He just turned his bike in today to get new pedals, and mine goes in tomorrow. Now to to think about shoes, which I am sure I can locate a good deal online.
I skipped the gym yesterday in order to write a paper. It's still not finished, but the outline is there and I should be able to crank it out today after a trip to the gym.
I think I am catching Ab's cold. I don't have time for this!
I think I may have convinced a fellow teacher to do the triathlon with me. She's just as green as I am.
.......I'm home from the gym...control your excitement. They started this new thing where you have to sign in for a spinning class up to an hour before it begins. Sounds crazy, but people get kind of violent. So far I like it because I can attend the spinning classes now. Junior's daycare provider was going in during lunch to reserve her bike and some people were going before work. That's insane! So I hit an hour spinning class, ran two miles immediately after--ouch!
I heard from said friend of mine from school and she is going to do the triathlon with me, so it makes me feel a little better. She's also the one that I am going to do the San Antonio Rock-n-Roll Half Marathon with as well.
Tomorrow is Ab's big TAG field trip. She's super excited about it. I emailed her teacher and told her that Abs had packed a robe and a stuffed camel. Her teacher made some random announcements today about the field trip and included that robes and stuffed camels were probably not necessary. Abs was disappointed, and told her teacher that I wouldn't buy her a jacket!?!?!?!?! Geez. I ran into her teacher tonight at the gym so she filled me in on Ab's disappointment. I guess if that is all she is getting disappointed about, her life has to be easier than most other 8 year olds.
More details on Gunner's camping obsession are coming soon. The boy is about to drive me crazy! I'm so glad he's home though.
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Orders
Seriously, if we are moving, I hope they cut orders sometime in the near future, so we can have SOME idea of a timeframe and make plans accordingly. I know some people have them, but who knows what the whole story is.
I am super sore today in my left calf. I went for a short 2 1/2 mile run and took it very slow. It felt good to stretch it out, and I was plugging along. I even did it outside, and I think I can become addicted to that! I didn't even realize it had been that far.
It's supposed to rain this weekend and it is the first weekend that Gunner wanted to go camping. I have class on Saturday, but I was going to go out there Friday and then back out Saturday afternoon. Hopefully it will be dry enough to make it a good experience because he's determined to get out there. He's now printing recipes for a campfire, but I am not sure if the burn ban will affect those plans. My sister once mentioned something about cookies on top of pie filling and something else and cooked in a dutch oven. I think I need her to send me the recipe.
The girls were happy with their Easter baskets and Junior was ecstatic with his Diego rescue pack. I can't say that we were overjoyed with the song that it plays over and over and over again. I guess the Easter Bunny should have been paying closer attention to that feature!
I can't believe it is already time to go back to school. This three day weekend flew by. I think I might need a day off this week. I'll have to look and see what is going on. I better use up all my days!
A friend took pictures at the race on Saturday and in each one I look like I am walking. I guess I need to work on my form? Gunner said I keep my arms too tensed up, and I need to lengthen my stride. Hmmmm....imagine what I could do if I ran correctly!
I am super sore today in my left calf. I went for a short 2 1/2 mile run and took it very slow. It felt good to stretch it out, and I was plugging along. I even did it outside, and I think I can become addicted to that! I didn't even realize it had been that far.
It's supposed to rain this weekend and it is the first weekend that Gunner wanted to go camping. I have class on Saturday, but I was going to go out there Friday and then back out Saturday afternoon. Hopefully it will be dry enough to make it a good experience because he's determined to get out there. He's now printing recipes for a campfire, but I am not sure if the burn ban will affect those plans. My sister once mentioned something about cookies on top of pie filling and something else and cooked in a dutch oven. I think I need her to send me the recipe.
The girls were happy with their Easter baskets and Junior was ecstatic with his Diego rescue pack. I can't say that we were overjoyed with the song that it plays over and over and over again. I guess the Easter Bunny should have been paying closer attention to that feature!
I can't believe it is already time to go back to school. This three day weekend flew by. I think I might need a day off this week. I'll have to look and see what is going on. I better use up all my days!
A friend took pictures at the race on Saturday and in each one I look like I am walking. I guess I need to work on my form? Gunner said I keep my arms too tensed up, and I need to lengthen my stride. Hmmmm....imagine what I could do if I ran correctly!
Saturday, April 11, 2009
The 10K
Got up early this morning and it was cold! Only 53 degrees, but to this Texan, that's downright chilly!
We met the teachers from school there, and took off. I got my best time, but considering the only other time I have done a 10K was a year ago in the heat of the summer, I couldn't have done worse! I am very happy with my time. I felt good though and was the first out of everyone in our group to finish, so that made the competitive side of me happy. (I remember my SIL telling us once in an email that downhill skiing with my brother was like an all out blood war--hey, a little competition is good, right?)
Gunner did a great job too. :) Yep, I beat him as well. I just can't help it, if I knew the person that came in first, I probably would have died trying to beat them as well. Or maybe not since she is a marathoner and is going to do the Boston Marathon next weekend. I know of another teacher that wants to do the San Antonio half marathon with the bands and everything. That would be a lot of fun!
No races for the next two weeks since I have class and the big upcoming camping adventure. Gunner got the RV from his parents last night and I guess will be working on it this week with Junior.
I'm off to work, drop the girls off, and then meet at a friend's house for fajitas, margaritas, and a soak in the hot tub. Happy Saturday!
We met the teachers from school there, and took off. I got my best time, but considering the only other time I have done a 10K was a year ago in the heat of the summer, I couldn't have done worse! I am very happy with my time. I felt good though and was the first out of everyone in our group to finish, so that made the competitive side of me happy. (I remember my SIL telling us once in an email that downhill skiing with my brother was like an all out blood war--hey, a little competition is good, right?)
Gunner did a great job too. :) Yep, I beat him as well. I just can't help it, if I knew the person that came in first, I probably would have died trying to beat them as well. Or maybe not since she is a marathoner and is going to do the Boston Marathon next weekend. I know of another teacher that wants to do the San Antonio half marathon with the bands and everything. That would be a lot of fun!
No races for the next two weeks since I have class and the big upcoming camping adventure. Gunner got the RV from his parents last night and I guess will be working on it this week with Junior.
I'm off to work, drop the girls off, and then meet at a friend's house for fajitas, margaritas, and a soak in the hot tub. Happy Saturday!
Friday, April 10, 2009
The joys of teaching 2nd grade
When I arrive to school in the morning, I have my hair down because it is still drying. Usually by about 10 am, I have it wrapped back up in a bun or something to keep it out of my face and make it easier to chase children.
Yesterday I had this conversation with a student:
Student: I have a secret to tell you.
Me: Okay, shoot.
Student: I need to whisper it.
Me: No one can hear, go ahead.
Student: No it's serious.
I lean in and put my ear down towards her, and my long hair is down this morning.
Student: (whispering in my ear, which is right next to their mouth) I have lice.
Geez. I'm still itching.
Yesterday I had this conversation with a student:
Student: I have a secret to tell you.
Me: Okay, shoot.
Student: I need to whisper it.
Me: No one can hear, go ahead.
Student: No it's serious.
I lean in and put my ear down towards her, and my long hair is down this morning.
Student: (whispering in my ear, which is right next to their mouth) I have lice.
Geez. I'm still itching.
Thursday, April 9, 2009
What's an extra few miles?
12 to be exact. I was trying to convince Gunner that if we were willing to ride 50 miles that we could easily ride the 100K, since it was just an extra 12 miles. He's not feeling it.
I have two books to read and review. One looks really good.
I am not motivated to go to the gym tonight. Junior fell asleep this evening and when I went in and woke him up he screamed and screamed. He finally made his way back to bed and is out again. Poor little guy. He needs his naps, but fights them tooth and nail during the day. So I am sure he won't sleep tonight at all. Lucky us.
Abs was up half the night screeching intermittently every few minutes. Apparently she kept dreaming about a boomerang that did not return but a scarecrow did. We are exhausted. Couple that with Junior coming in our room at 3:30 this morning, and my idea of getting a good night sleep did not occur.
I'm kind of in a funk today. The purge of the house needs to happen and soon...
While typing this blog, I took a break to peruse my amazon cart to see what I liked and didn't like.
I looked, read, and then went to another site and signed up for a triathlon. Never done one.
This should be interesting. Never a dull moment around here....
I have two books to read and review. One looks really good.
I am not motivated to go to the gym tonight. Junior fell asleep this evening and when I went in and woke him up he screamed and screamed. He finally made his way back to bed and is out again. Poor little guy. He needs his naps, but fights them tooth and nail during the day. So I am sure he won't sleep tonight at all. Lucky us.
Abs was up half the night screeching intermittently every few minutes. Apparently she kept dreaming about a boomerang that did not return but a scarecrow did. We are exhausted. Couple that with Junior coming in our room at 3:30 this morning, and my idea of getting a good night sleep did not occur.
I'm kind of in a funk today. The purge of the house needs to happen and soon...
While typing this blog, I took a break to peruse my amazon cart to see what I liked and didn't like.
I looked, read, and then went to another site and signed up for a triathlon. Never done one.
This should be interesting. Never a dull moment around here....
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Therapy in the sauna?
I hit the gym today, ran, stepped, lifted, and listened to army wives in the sauna. I didn't even have to turn off my iPOD in order to listen to the not-so-quiet conversation. My blood started to boil, and another woman in there just looked at me and rolled her eyes. I hate army wives that complain about everything, loudly, in public places. Maybe it's just me.
I skipped dinner with the outlaws and opted for a run instead. It's been so beautiful that I am half tempted to run outside, but I always chicken out and head for the treadmill. I know how far I go and how fast I go inside, and I am worried I'd be a slacker outside with no one watching me. Who wants to look like a wimp at the gym?
I recruited several teachers to run or walk the 10K with me this weekend. This led to a creation of a run/walk club which I am now a member. Ummm.....I don't even know if I can run the whole 10K, but they were asking me questions? Oh geez. I told them I buy books on every subject I am interested in, and read, read, read. I'm trading in my guided reading books for how to run a triathlon, the triatheletes bible, a book on increasing your speed in cycling and running as well. Oh and I think I had a book in my cart that was for weight training for runners. I love books. I'll spend the next month pondering over my selections before I click that submit button and make my final order. Gunner just grins and makes room on the bookshelf for the next round of books.
Of course it might have to wait a while since I just ordered three new sports bras. How come they need to be so darn expensive. I have the (insert maiden name here) rack, so I have to buy bras that can keep the girls from knocking me out. I really want a reduction, but who wants to slow down that long? It's on my list of things though. TMI, I know, especially since my brother and Uncle read this blog. (I sure wish my Dad could read everything I write though, he would get a kick out of it all)
Oh and I have a new obsessions with roadrunnersports.com. I love their running pants and so I ordered a new pair and two pairs of capris. I was wearing out the washer and dryer, not to mention the one pair that I had.
Gunner and Junior got haircuts today. Potty training is still going strong, but he will not poop. Tonight he did it in the tub, so I guess the silver lining is that at least it was in the bathroom?
Gunner took the kids to eat with his parents while I was at the gym. I came home to find them all playing the wii--yes, we gave in and got one. The girls have decided that game night is much better than movie night. I have to agree! Of course it got Abs wired up and it is 10 pm and I am still hearing strains of opera music coming from her room. I wish I had her energy....and her voice. She's been busy creating vocabulary tests for us at every turn, and her writing has really improved. We are still waiting for the OT referral, but it doesn't look promising. She did graduate from PT though, and it's nice to not have to race out there twice a week, but of course leave it to when Gunner is home, for it to be over!
Gunner finally shaved today.....I bet it was just because we have a run this weekend. He'd look pretty ridiculous with his high and tight and a beard. I'm betting by the end of leave he will be woolly.
Tomorrow is my friday, and the thought of jeans makes me happy, and it's not just the small size on the tag in the jeans, although that helps immensely. It also helps when people stop me to tell me that my pants are baggy, or when I have to hike them up because they are too loose!
Oh, and the giant purge? It will resume this Friday. Anyone need some canning jars?
I skipped dinner with the outlaws and opted for a run instead. It's been so beautiful that I am half tempted to run outside, but I always chicken out and head for the treadmill. I know how far I go and how fast I go inside, and I am worried I'd be a slacker outside with no one watching me. Who wants to look like a wimp at the gym?
I recruited several teachers to run or walk the 10K with me this weekend. This led to a creation of a run/walk club which I am now a member. Ummm.....I don't even know if I can run the whole 10K, but they were asking me questions? Oh geez. I told them I buy books on every subject I am interested in, and read, read, read. I'm trading in my guided reading books for how to run a triathlon, the triatheletes bible, a book on increasing your speed in cycling and running as well. Oh and I think I had a book in my cart that was for weight training for runners. I love books. I'll spend the next month pondering over my selections before I click that submit button and make my final order. Gunner just grins and makes room on the bookshelf for the next round of books.
Of course it might have to wait a while since I just ordered three new sports bras. How come they need to be so darn expensive. I have the (insert maiden name here) rack, so I have to buy bras that can keep the girls from knocking me out. I really want a reduction, but who wants to slow down that long? It's on my list of things though. TMI, I know, especially since my brother and Uncle read this blog. (I sure wish my Dad could read everything I write though, he would get a kick out of it all)
Oh and I have a new obsessions with roadrunnersports.com. I love their running pants and so I ordered a new pair and two pairs of capris. I was wearing out the washer and dryer, not to mention the one pair that I had.
Gunner and Junior got haircuts today. Potty training is still going strong, but he will not poop. Tonight he did it in the tub, so I guess the silver lining is that at least it was in the bathroom?
Gunner took the kids to eat with his parents while I was at the gym. I came home to find them all playing the wii--yes, we gave in and got one. The girls have decided that game night is much better than movie night. I have to agree! Of course it got Abs wired up and it is 10 pm and I am still hearing strains of opera music coming from her room. I wish I had her energy....and her voice. She's been busy creating vocabulary tests for us at every turn, and her writing has really improved. We are still waiting for the OT referral, but it doesn't look promising. She did graduate from PT though, and it's nice to not have to race out there twice a week, but of course leave it to when Gunner is home, for it to be over!
Gunner finally shaved today.....I bet it was just because we have a run this weekend. He'd look pretty ridiculous with his high and tight and a beard. I'm betting by the end of leave he will be woolly.
Tomorrow is my friday, and the thought of jeans makes me happy, and it's not just the small size on the tag in the jeans, although that helps immensely. It also helps when people stop me to tell me that my pants are baggy, or when I have to hike them up because they are too loose!
Oh, and the giant purge? It will resume this Friday. Anyone need some canning jars?
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Bunnies, Lions & Camels, Oh My!
We made bunnies for the bulletin board. What a nightmare.
Gunner is cutting out templates of camels & lions.
Didn't hit the gym and had mexican food for dinner--not a good combination.
A picture from this weekend of Junior with the Army monster truck. He loved it! The girls....could have cared less and wanted to move on.
Gunner is cutting out templates of camels & lions.
Didn't hit the gym and had mexican food for dinner--not a good combination.
A picture from this weekend of Junior with the Army monster truck. He loved it! The girls....could have cared less and wanted to move on.
Monday, April 6, 2009
Batman?
Block leave has begun. Great for Gunner, not so great for me when I had to get up to go to work this morning.
Gunner's first day at home with Junior was a huge success. He pottied all day on the potty, and kept his Batman underwear dry....until he pooped. Win some, lose some.
When he was finally in his diaper again and dressed for bed, he stopped playing, asked for his diaper off, and then went potty.
But this smiling face in Batman underoos was too cute.
He's in desperate need of a haircut. Maybe I should let Abs practice?
Hit the gym, ran 3 miles.
I'm in the process of signing us up for a 50 mile bike ride. There are two choices and one ends with BBQ and beer, but it is over an hour away. The other is just half an hour away.
Which would you choose?
Gunner's first day at home with Junior was a huge success. He pottied all day on the potty, and kept his Batman underwear dry....until he pooped. Win some, lose some.
When he was finally in his diaper again and dressed for bed, he stopped playing, asked for his diaper off, and then went potty.
But this smiling face in Batman underoos was too cute.
He's in desperate need of a haircut. Maybe I should let Abs practice?Hit the gym, ran 3 miles.
I'm in the process of signing us up for a 50 mile bike ride. There are two choices and one ends with BBQ and beer, but it is over an hour away. The other is just half an hour away.
Which would you choose?
Sunday, April 5, 2009
My confession
I am a packrat.
I get it from my side of the family.
My children are fast following in my footsteps.
I think Gunner has packed it up too, since I went to throw away something totally useless and he balked. I smiled. I threw it away. He laughed and agreed. We don't need it! I'm really trying here.
If we do PCS in a few months, we can't drag all this stuff with us. Do we really need it all? How do I become a minimalist?
The baby stuff won't go with us. The girl clothes that Abs outgrows are going to be gone.
It's time to part with the clothes I don't wear and are too big.
I don't need three hole punches.
Do we need to keep the two printers in the garage? I probably have over 50 pairs of shoes and wear about 10 of them. And don't even get me started on the piles and piles and piles and did I mention.....PILES of TA-50!
I really want a new dining room table, like this.
I.love.pottery.barn.
Realistically I will never spend that much on a table because I have three kids that like to paint, color, and do arts and crafts.
In just two hours today Gunner and I filled the garbage can. We are still way over our weight limit, but it's progress.
At our next house I will not save EVERYTHING. And yes I said that the last hundred times I moved, but I am at my breaking point and over my weight limit.
Clean sweep, it's time to make a call to "The Great Place" and help me purge! And...um....when you're done......I'll hand you directions to the next house you need to visit!
Oh and if you want the best stir fry recipe, visit Andrea. I am having this for the second time this week. I leave out the rice and add more veggies, but it's w-o-n-d-e-r-f-u-l.
I get it from my side of the family.
My children are fast following in my footsteps.
I think Gunner has packed it up too, since I went to throw away something totally useless and he balked. I smiled. I threw it away. He laughed and agreed. We don't need it! I'm really trying here.
If we do PCS in a few months, we can't drag all this stuff with us. Do we really need it all? How do I become a minimalist?
The baby stuff won't go with us. The girl clothes that Abs outgrows are going to be gone.
It's time to part with the clothes I don't wear and are too big.
I don't need three hole punches.
Do we need to keep the two printers in the garage? I probably have over 50 pairs of shoes and wear about 10 of them. And don't even get me started on the piles and piles and piles and did I mention.....PILES of TA-50!
I really want a new dining room table, like this.
I.love.pottery.barn.
Realistically I will never spend that much on a table because I have three kids that like to paint, color, and do arts and crafts.
In just two hours today Gunner and I filled the garbage can. We are still way over our weight limit, but it's progress.
At our next house I will not save EVERYTHING. And yes I said that the last hundred times I moved, but I am at my breaking point and over my weight limit.
Clean sweep, it's time to make a call to "The Great Place" and help me purge! And...um....when you're done......I'll hand you directions to the next house you need to visit!
Oh and if you want the best stir fry recipe, visit Andrea. I am having this for the second time this week. I leave out the rice and add more veggies, but it's w-o-n-d-e-r-f-u-l.
Saturday, April 4, 2009
Friday, April 3, 2009
Almost done...
I am done studying. I think I have crammed everything I can into this brain of mine, and I must be ready for the test.
It was early dismissal today at school, and you would have thought that their parents fed my students red bulls for breakfast. Luckily it seemed to be a school wide epidemic.
I had a problem parent today, but took it to the principal and showed him my documentation and got his backing that I was doing everything right. I finished up my PDAS stuff but never got to my long list of things to do.
Gunner is obsessed with camping. His list is growing. He dreams about it. He talks about it. He plans for it. We have the dates set and we have nowhere picked out yet to go. He starts leave tonight at midnight. I wish I was going on leave.
I found a 50 mile bike ride in the neighboring town. I am trying to convince him how fun it will be. I found another 10K for us to do. I'm going to burn through my sick and leave days so that I can enjoy some time off. I'm so glad that the kids cooperated and I was able to save them!
Off to get a good night sleep so I can be ready to go in the morning!
It was early dismissal today at school, and you would have thought that their parents fed my students red bulls for breakfast. Luckily it seemed to be a school wide epidemic.
I had a problem parent today, but took it to the principal and showed him my documentation and got his backing that I was doing everything right. I finished up my PDAS stuff but never got to my long list of things to do.
Gunner is obsessed with camping. His list is growing. He dreams about it. He talks about it. He plans for it. We have the dates set and we have nowhere picked out yet to go. He starts leave tonight at midnight. I wish I was going on leave.
I found a 50 mile bike ride in the neighboring town. I am trying to convince him how fun it will be. I found another 10K for us to do. I'm going to burn through my sick and leave days so that I can enjoy some time off. I'm so glad that the kids cooperated and I was able to save them!
Off to get a good night sleep so I can be ready to go in the morning!
Thursday, April 2, 2009
In honor of Facebook
ABW will not even venture a guess as to why there are huge chunks of Ab's hairs that were found on the floor by the computer today.
She is now sporting a cowlick like her brother because in true Ab's style it was in the front.
I was just telling someone how turning 8 agreed with her....how could I jinx myself like that!
She is now sporting a cowlick like her brother because in true Ab's style it was in the front.
I was just telling someone how turning 8 agreed with her....how could I jinx myself like that!
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
A few more days
I take my ESL certification test this Saturday and I can't wait for it to be over. I am busy cramming everything I can into my brain while trying to finish up grades and everything else. I did make time for the gym and ran 5.5 miles, which relieved a lot of stress until I came home and took a practice exam. Yikes! I'll be MIA while hitting the books.
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Ewwwww......
A tarantula is shedding in our garage. Gunner saved the skin. Lucky me. It can go with the squished snake. These would be great if Abs was still at a Montessori school. I've got a class full of boys, so they will appreciate these.
Abbey and I hit the gym this morning. I think she was ready to throw a weight at me at one point, she refrained and we both made it out of there alive. I really need to start extending my distances, so that's on the list for this week.
I worked. I graded papers. I found a pile of papers that I forgot to grade. I found a pile of papers that I don't want to grade. Ugh. I made lesson plans.
I forgot to take pictures of the girls using the pottery wheel. They made clay marks on their face and arms for war paint. They spent a couple of hours working but never finished an item. They are going to work on it more tomorrow since they apparently are going to sell these for a lot of money. I'm sure their Oma & Opa will buy one paying top dollar!! At least for a few hours there was no fighting, it was heaven. Junior tried to be involved but since they wouldn't let him, he spent the entire time grabbing their container of water and dumping it out and making them scream. The fun has started.
While I was still working, Gunner loaded up the kids and went for a bike ride. I think I need to go and pull the bike trailer next time. What's an extra hundred pounds? Might do me some good!
Gunner has made this elaborate list of things to do while on leave. He is pulling Junior from daycare and is going to throw him in the jogging stroller and run after walking Abs to school each morning. I'm jealous! I teach at an early start school, so I have to be there at the crack of dawn.
He's planning a camping trip. We have only one race scheduled so far while he is on leave, but I am looking for more. I really want to do this adventure race, but it is about 8 hours long. The challenge would be fun though.
He has a cleaning schedule. He has an errand schedule.
I didn't see a menu on his list of lists, wonder if I can sneak one in there without pushing my luck? He's a much better cook than I am. Shoot, Junior won't even eat mac & cheese anymore, so I guess I served it a little too much during deployment.
.....forgot to post this last night. I just returned home from a run and a swim. I hadn't swam in quite a while, but was a swimmer in high school. It was great. I loved it. I am adding it to my list of things to do at least twice a week.
Junior is screaming because no one will sleep in his bed with him. Gunner is cleaning up spilled tomato juice, and I need to steam some fish. Tomorrow it is inner space caverns with busloads of 2nd graders. I have recruited Gunner to come help me out. He needs to perfect "the look" before he shows up!
Abbey and I hit the gym this morning. I think she was ready to throw a weight at me at one point, she refrained and we both made it out of there alive. I really need to start extending my distances, so that's on the list for this week.
I worked. I graded papers. I found a pile of papers that I forgot to grade. I found a pile of papers that I don't want to grade. Ugh. I made lesson plans.
I forgot to take pictures of the girls using the pottery wheel. They made clay marks on their face and arms for war paint. They spent a couple of hours working but never finished an item. They are going to work on it more tomorrow since they apparently are going to sell these for a lot of money. I'm sure their Oma & Opa will buy one paying top dollar!! At least for a few hours there was no fighting, it was heaven. Junior tried to be involved but since they wouldn't let him, he spent the entire time grabbing their container of water and dumping it out and making them scream. The fun has started.
While I was still working, Gunner loaded up the kids and went for a bike ride. I think I need to go and pull the bike trailer next time. What's an extra hundred pounds? Might do me some good!
Gunner has made this elaborate list of things to do while on leave. He is pulling Junior from daycare and is going to throw him in the jogging stroller and run after walking Abs to school each morning. I'm jealous! I teach at an early start school, so I have to be there at the crack of dawn.
He's planning a camping trip. We have only one race scheduled so far while he is on leave, but I am looking for more. I really want to do this adventure race, but it is about 8 hours long. The challenge would be fun though.
He has a cleaning schedule. He has an errand schedule.
I didn't see a menu on his list of lists, wonder if I can sneak one in there without pushing my luck? He's a much better cook than I am. Shoot, Junior won't even eat mac & cheese anymore, so I guess I served it a little too much during deployment.
.....forgot to post this last night. I just returned home from a run and a swim. I hadn't swam in quite a while, but was a swimmer in high school. It was great. I loved it. I am adding it to my list of things to do at least twice a week.
Junior is screaming because no one will sleep in his bed with him. Gunner is cleaning up spilled tomato juice, and I need to steam some fish. Tomorrow it is inner space caverns with busloads of 2nd graders. I have recruited Gunner to come help me out. He needs to perfect "the look" before he shows up!
Saturday, March 28, 2009
Check
Gym...check--wanted to do my long run this morning, but this smelly guy came in around mile 3 and I couldn't hack it.
Study group....check--great to see my friends, catch up, study, and realize that we are all in the same boat.
Baby shower present...check--why are baby things so expensive?
Cats overfed...check--My friend Mel is at a conference and asked me to overfeed her cats. While she was gone over Christmas I thought I was supposed to give them two cans of food each. Not so apparently. No wonder the litterbox was always full.
Waiting to go to baby shower so I still have to wrap the presents. I am not artistic so I dread trying to make my gift look like something other than what the cat dragged in. I'm hoping that Gunner will help me out there.
The girls were dropped off with my mom, and Gunner even made an additional round trip so that Abs would have her medicine.
.....Home from the baby shower. Junior found a snake on a walk with Gunner. It was small and squished and he wanted to save it to show me. A sign of what is to come? At least it was dead.
I was going to go back to the gym this evening and they closed at 8. Do they think everyone in Killeen goes out or something? I was looking forward to another run, a swim, and a trip to the sauna. Instead Abbey and I have scheduled a trip tomorrow. I guess I can have an exciting evening of grading papers, putting together centers, entering grades and doing laundry. I do have a couple of movies that I want to watch with Gunner, so I guess we'll fit that in somewhere.
Night 1 of Junior in his Thomas bed went well, but so far night two isn't going as well. One more week till the serious potty training adventure begins!
Study group....check--great to see my friends, catch up, study, and realize that we are all in the same boat.
Baby shower present...check--why are baby things so expensive?
Cats overfed...check--My friend Mel is at a conference and asked me to overfeed her cats. While she was gone over Christmas I thought I was supposed to give them two cans of food each. Not so apparently. No wonder the litterbox was always full.
Waiting to go to baby shower so I still have to wrap the presents. I am not artistic so I dread trying to make my gift look like something other than what the cat dragged in. I'm hoping that Gunner will help me out there.
The girls were dropped off with my mom, and Gunner even made an additional round trip so that Abs would have her medicine.
.....Home from the baby shower. Junior found a snake on a walk with Gunner. It was small and squished and he wanted to save it to show me. A sign of what is to come? At least it was dead.
I was going to go back to the gym this evening and they closed at 8. Do they think everyone in Killeen goes out or something? I was looking forward to another run, a swim, and a trip to the sauna. Instead Abbey and I have scheduled a trip tomorrow. I guess I can have an exciting evening of grading papers, putting together centers, entering grades and doing laundry. I do have a couple of movies that I want to watch with Gunner, so I guess we'll fit that in somewhere.
Night 1 of Junior in his Thomas bed went well, but so far night two isn't going as well. One more week till the serious potty training adventure begins!
Friday, March 27, 2009
Woohoo!
The weekend is finally here. It is starting to get cold, of course, and so my Army 10-miler training run tomorrow was canceled. I haven't been to one yet, so I am feeling guilty. The signup is on the 1st of April, and I want to go, but if am not at Fort Hood anymore, then I won't have anyone to go with. Decisions, decisions.
I will hit the gym tomorrow though with my friend Abbey. That is, assuming, she will go back with me after I worked her today. She was a trooper and did awesome! I think the word slave driver or was it drill sgt only came out of her mouth once.
I took off half the day today and slept. Gunner said that he heard orders were cut and we should be receiving them soon? Let's hope! I'm ready to get this ball rolling, if it's going to roll, or make plans accordingly if it is not. One of my bestest friends in the entire world is in Denver, so I can't wait till we get there to see him! (Hi Dave!) He has no kids, so I am thinking he might have to visit me so three kids won't be as overwhelming in his house with his Schnoodle.
We made the jump and Junior has been moved to his Thomas the Tank Engine bed (tonight's the first night). Gunner's parents bought it for him, but it was missing the bottom part, so the mattress was slipping. Gunner solved it by using the bottom of the crib, but that leaves us with a crib with no bottom, which won't do anyone any good. I guess someone could order the part, if I could remember who made the crib. If not, I guess it will be out with the trash next week. It served three kids, so we definitely got our money's worth out of it. Maybe the move to the big boy bed will alleviate him stripping and escaping? One can hope!
When I was growing up I always wanted Wonder Woman underoos. I don't think they even make them for girls anymore, but I picked up a pair of Batman ones for Junior the other day. I can't wait to give them to him for his birthday. I told my sister about them and she had always wanted them too. LOL At least it wasn't just me!
I have a study session tomorrow, the gym, a baby shower, cleaning, more studying, papers to grade, and a million other things on the schedule. How much longer till summer vacation???
I will hit the gym tomorrow though with my friend Abbey. That is, assuming, she will go back with me after I worked her today. She was a trooper and did awesome! I think the word slave driver or was it drill sgt only came out of her mouth once.
I took off half the day today and slept. Gunner said that he heard orders were cut and we should be receiving them soon? Let's hope! I'm ready to get this ball rolling, if it's going to roll, or make plans accordingly if it is not. One of my bestest friends in the entire world is in Denver, so I can't wait till we get there to see him! (Hi Dave!) He has no kids, so I am thinking he might have to visit me so three kids won't be as overwhelming in his house with his Schnoodle.
We made the jump and Junior has been moved to his Thomas the Tank Engine bed (tonight's the first night). Gunner's parents bought it for him, but it was missing the bottom part, so the mattress was slipping. Gunner solved it by using the bottom of the crib, but that leaves us with a crib with no bottom, which won't do anyone any good. I guess someone could order the part, if I could remember who made the crib. If not, I guess it will be out with the trash next week. It served three kids, so we definitely got our money's worth out of it. Maybe the move to the big boy bed will alleviate him stripping and escaping? One can hope!
When I was growing up I always wanted Wonder Woman underoos. I don't think they even make them for girls anymore, but I picked up a pair of Batman ones for Junior the other day. I can't wait to give them to him for his birthday. I told my sister about them and she had always wanted them too. LOL At least it wasn't just me!
I have a study session tomorrow, the gym, a baby shower, cleaning, more studying, papers to grade, and a million other things on the schedule. How much longer till summer vacation???
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Half Day
I am taking half a day off tomorrow and I can't wait. I can't decide between napping or doing something more constructive. I asked Gunner if he got off early if he would want to go for a run or a bike ride. Hearing those words, he told me he might be working late. Am I wearing him out?
I hit the gym tonight and while talking to a fellow teacher I did 40 minutes on the stairmaster. Then I ran two miles, and hit the weights. I ended with a stint in the sauna and returned home to three kids in bed.
I kissed the kids and then redressed naked Junior while talking to my sister. We cannot keep clothes on the boy. Even a sleeper on backwards is no match for Junior Houdini. He doesn't even unzip it, so no telling how we can keep him dressed.
I've recruited 5 other teachers to do the 10K with us on the 11th. Good times I tell ya!
I hit the gym tonight and while talking to a fellow teacher I did 40 minutes on the stairmaster. Then I ran two miles, and hit the weights. I ended with a stint in the sauna and returned home to three kids in bed.
I kissed the kids and then redressed naked Junior while talking to my sister. We cannot keep clothes on the boy. Even a sleeper on backwards is no match for Junior Houdini. He doesn't even unzip it, so no telling how we can keep him dressed.
I've recruited 5 other teachers to do the 10K with us on the 11th. Good times I tell ya!
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