Sunday, June 05, 2011
Saturday, June 04, 2011
16 on 16
It's pretty easy to say "I do" that first time, especially if you're relatively young and have never lived with anyone, because you have no idea what you're promising. But that doesn't mean you don't mean it when you say it, and that it is not worth the promise.
The first year really is the hardest. Combining 2 individual lives, with different ways of making dinner and doing laundry and keeping house is not easy. If you can survive the first year, you can survive anything.
Time apart is as important as time together.
Talking is what keeps a marriage functioning. Talk about the weather, politics, groceries, or who needs to line up the sitter. But just keep talking.
You're going to disagree about things: you're separate, intelligent people. Disagreeing doesn't mean you don't belong together; it just means you have your own ideas on things, and you care enough to share those ideas.
If you're lucky enough to have kids, don't forget that your relationship needs to outlast their childhood.
Finding the line between living to work and working to live is key.
It doesn't matter if you squeeze the toothpaste from the bottom or the middle.
Do what you used to do when you were dating. That's what made you fall in love, and it will help keep you in love.
Include your kids in what you used to do, too. You'll see it through their eyes, and it will give it a whole new meaning.
Celebrate the big anniversaries and the little ones.
Don't neglect Date Night.
Be honest, but never cruel.
Passion does fade, but what replaces it is pure magic.
Friends are as important now as they were in the beginning.
While you had no idea what you were promising at that ceremony, be thankful you trusted yourself enough to know you knew what you were doing. Because you really, really did.
The first year really is the hardest. Combining 2 individual lives, with different ways of making dinner and doing laundry and keeping house is not easy. If you can survive the first year, you can survive anything.
Time apart is as important as time together.
Talking is what keeps a marriage functioning. Talk about the weather, politics, groceries, or who needs to line up the sitter. But just keep talking.
You're going to disagree about things: you're separate, intelligent people. Disagreeing doesn't mean you don't belong together; it just means you have your own ideas on things, and you care enough to share those ideas.
If you're lucky enough to have kids, don't forget that your relationship needs to outlast their childhood.
Finding the line between living to work and working to live is key.
It doesn't matter if you squeeze the toothpaste from the bottom or the middle.
Do what you used to do when you were dating. That's what made you fall in love, and it will help keep you in love.
Include your kids in what you used to do, too. You'll see it through their eyes, and it will give it a whole new meaning.
Celebrate the big anniversaries and the little ones.
Don't neglect Date Night.
Be honest, but never cruel.
Passion does fade, but what replaces it is pure magic.
Friends are as important now as they were in the beginning.
While you had no idea what you were promising at that ceremony, be thankful you trusted yourself enough to know you knew what you were doing. Because you really, really did.
Monday, May 30, 2011
{this moment}
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Saturday, May 21, 2011
{this moment}
Friday, May 20, 2011
theme of the week
I do enjoy Indexed... her ability to summarize the complex emotions I'm experiencing and put them onto a 3x5 index card amazes me. And, if the truth were told, focuses me too.
Tomorrow is another day....
Tomorrow is another day....
How to win.
Sunday, May 15, 2011
if tomorrow never comes
Yesterday, a friend of mine passed away. We did not see other every day, or even every month, but we're the same age and so our lives had a similar path. We met when we were single, and followed each other through dating, marriage, and motherhood. She chose to homeschool, and minimally I'd see her every spring when I'd come in to review portfolios. She contacted me recently about setting that date. And now, I will not be seeing her and joking about being a 'certifiable' teacher... and nothing seems to make much sense.
Part of what is hitting me so hard is that our lives followed a similar path. We're the same age, with children the same ages (although she has twice as many). When I look at my kids, I can't help but wonder how they would fare if this tragedy had happened to us. I want to show WB where I keep all the important documents, just to be sure he knows. And then I think about her husband and kids, and that they are actually living this horror.... and I realize just how selfish I am being.
No one likes facing their own mortality, and this is precisely what her passing has done. We have all sorts of platitudes about the gift of each day, but we all go about our lives thinking we have tons of time to do what we want, to plan for the future, to experience everything. Truth is... we have no way of knowing whether our fate is to die of old age in our sleep or to battle against cancer for years and die at 52 or to have a brain aneurysm at 41, having no idea that morning that it will be our last. For as much as we know, there is so much that we don't, and we have to rely on faith. And relying on faith in the face of something that makes no sense is not easy, and yet it is all we can do.
Unsurprisingly, I've spent the day with Garth Brooks' lyrics running through my head. I do take comfort knowing she was the type of person to live fully, and I am sure all her friends and family know how much they mean to her. I'm just really sad that they'll have to spend the rest of their lives without her constantly reminding them of what they know is true. She loved every bit of her life, and it is a real tragedy that she is no longer with us.
Part of what is hitting me so hard is that our lives followed a similar path. We're the same age, with children the same ages (although she has twice as many). When I look at my kids, I can't help but wonder how they would fare if this tragedy had happened to us. I want to show WB where I keep all the important documents, just to be sure he knows. And then I think about her husband and kids, and that they are actually living this horror.... and I realize just how selfish I am being.
No one likes facing their own mortality, and this is precisely what her passing has done. We have all sorts of platitudes about the gift of each day, but we all go about our lives thinking we have tons of time to do what we want, to plan for the future, to experience everything. Truth is... we have no way of knowing whether our fate is to die of old age in our sleep or to battle against cancer for years and die at 52 or to have a brain aneurysm at 41, having no idea that morning that it will be our last. For as much as we know, there is so much that we don't, and we have to rely on faith. And relying on faith in the face of something that makes no sense is not easy, and yet it is all we can do.
Unsurprisingly, I've spent the day with Garth Brooks' lyrics running through my head. I do take comfort knowing she was the type of person to live fully, and I am sure all her friends and family know how much they mean to her. I'm just really sad that they'll have to spend the rest of their lives without her constantly reminding them of what they know is true. She loved every bit of her life, and it is a real tragedy that she is no longer with us.
Saturday, May 14, 2011
{this moment}
Monday, May 09, 2011
the dangers of cutting
I attended the school board meeting tonight; to say it was painful would be an understatement. We're losing so much with these cuts, and it's our kids who will suffer. And any cut will affect kids-- whether you're cutting paper supplies or kitchen workers or teachers.
If you don't want these cuts, please come to the informational meetings and say so. Write letters to the editor saying our kids can't endure these losses to their education. Call your board members and tell them to vote down this proposal and request increases. Get involved. This impacts all of us.
Mt. Valley Region: 6:30 Monday June 6 Mexico Town Office
Nezinscot Region: 6:30 Tuesday June 7 Buckfield Town Office
Dirigo Region: 6:30 Wednesday June 8 DHS SCC
If you don't want these cuts, please come to the informational meetings and say so. Write letters to the editor saying our kids can't endure these losses to their education. Call your board members and tell them to vote down this proposal and request increases. Get involved. This impacts all of us.
Mt. Valley Region: 6:30 Monday June 6 Mexico Town Office
Nezinscot Region: 6:30 Tuesday June 7 Buckfield Town Office
Dirigo Region: 6:30 Wednesday June 8 DHS SCC
Saturday, May 07, 2011
{this moment}
Monday, May 02, 2011
the morning after
“I have decided to stick with love. Hate is too great a burden to bear.” MLK, Jr.
I find myself sad today, more than anything else. Sad that it took us 9+ years to achieve this goal. Sad that it was still a goal after 9+ years. Sad that thousands of others died in the quest for this one man to no longer live. And sad knowing that this does not mean the end, but only that things will change.
I am sure there is a 'break-glass-in-case-of-emergency' plan somewhere among Osama's followers, and I am frightened thinking about what grief that will cause. I am worried for my sister who is teaching overseas, and for my friends who plan to do the same next year. I am worried for our troops who are fighting in multiple locales... and while I hope this news brings them home, I am doubtful. My thoughts linger on people in southeastern America-- and Japan and Haiti and all the other sites of recent devistation-- who have lost everything of substance and so many friends and family that it hurts to consider what they are enduring. And I wonder: how does the death of one man-- a man filled with hate, for sure-- make any of their tragedy any better?
I believe in the power of love and the goodness of humanity and the-sun-will-come-out-tomorrow way of thinking. The sun did come out today, as it did here almost 10 years ago when bin Laden's unthinkable plan went into action. I wish this death could bring back those lost in New York City and Washington, DC and that field in Pennsylvania... but they are still gone, and we are forever changed by that day. We are probably forever changed by today, too. I hope that this is the end of it, that there are no repercussions, and that our troops can come home and we can all coexist. I'm just hoping for peace...
I realize I am in the minority that I am not rejoicing in his death. While I am thankful that he is no longer here causing problems for others, I am not sure we will be free of his legacy of hatred for some time. I am also sorry that another human being was charged with ending his life: I cannot imagine the toll that takes on someone's soul. It is why I don't believe in the death penalty: I have no doubt that there are people and situations that demand the final punishment, but I do not think it right to ask another human to fulfill that role. And so today I find myself sad more than anything else.
I find myself sad today, more than anything else. Sad that it took us 9+ years to achieve this goal. Sad that it was still a goal after 9+ years. Sad that thousands of others died in the quest for this one man to no longer live. And sad knowing that this does not mean the end, but only that things will change.
I am sure there is a 'break-glass-in-case-of-emergency' plan somewhere among Osama's followers, and I am frightened thinking about what grief that will cause. I am worried for my sister who is teaching overseas, and for my friends who plan to do the same next year. I am worried for our troops who are fighting in multiple locales... and while I hope this news brings them home, I am doubtful. My thoughts linger on people in southeastern America-- and Japan and Haiti and all the other sites of recent devistation-- who have lost everything of substance and so many friends and family that it hurts to consider what they are enduring. And I wonder: how does the death of one man-- a man filled with hate, for sure-- make any of their tragedy any better?
I believe in the power of love and the goodness of humanity and the-sun-will-come-out-tomorrow way of thinking. The sun did come out today, as it did here almost 10 years ago when bin Laden's unthinkable plan went into action. I wish this death could bring back those lost in New York City and Washington, DC and that field in Pennsylvania... but they are still gone, and we are forever changed by that day. We are probably forever changed by today, too. I hope that this is the end of it, that there are no repercussions, and that our troops can come home and we can all coexist. I'm just hoping for peace...
I realize I am in the minority that I am not rejoicing in his death. While I am thankful that he is no longer here causing problems for others, I am not sure we will be free of his legacy of hatred for some time. I am also sorry that another human being was charged with ending his life: I cannot imagine the toll that takes on someone's soul. It is why I don't believe in the death penalty: I have no doubt that there are people and situations that demand the final punishment, but I do not think it right to ask another human to fulfill that role. And so today I find myself sad more than anything else.
Sunday, May 01, 2011
why I love the cold
So I was sitting here, innocently reading Pioneer Woman and snacking on some low salt bdubs, when a tick crawled across my keyboard. Somehow I was able to calmly get myself to the bathroom, fill an old pill container with rubbing alcohol (all the while keeping my eyes on that bleeping creepy crawler) and roll the bastard into it.
At least when it's snowing and cold, I don't have to deal with ticks. I hate those creatures more than I hate mice. And I really hate mice.
I'm going to go freak out now.
At least when it's snowing and cold, I don't have to deal with ticks. I hate those creatures more than I hate mice. And I really hate mice.
I'm going to go freak out now.
{this moment}
Monday, April 25, 2011
Sunday, April 24, 2011
5x7 Folded Card
Wishes For Grandma Mother's Day 5x7 folded card
Personalized Mother's day cards by Shutterfly.
View the entire collection of cards.
Friday, April 22, 2011
{this *Earth Day* moment}
(PS: Any predictions on when the last of this Northern facing pile will melt? We could do our own little contest, and the winner could get some sunscreen or clothespins or something equally as cool...)
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
{this *late* moment}
Thursday, April 14, 2011
This is why.
Today was swimming along. I was handing out books for 6th period and a few of them said "I don't need one." They were working on job applications, or doing make up work, or just not 'into it'. And so I let it fly, because I keep my classroom pretty real*. "Sometimes I wonder why I even bother."
"Because you love us and you want to help us succeed."
Point taken, with probably the truest statement of the week. Even in the midst of chaos, we're moving forward.
For the record, they paid better attention and were more involved in the discussion than when they all have their books open.Who knew? Clearly not me...
*I've been reading Confessions of a Pioneer Woman like it's a novel. Don't ask me why it took me this long, but I am currently hooked. Maybe it's because I finished my last novel and am resisting starting the next one? Anyway, because I pick up speech patterns like no one's business, her phrases have been floating through my head all week. Just keepin' it real about keepin' it real.
"Because you love us and you want to help us succeed."
Point taken, with probably the truest statement of the week. Even in the midst of chaos, we're moving forward.
For the record, they paid better attention and were more involved in the discussion than when they all have their books open.Who knew? Clearly not me...
*I've been reading Confessions of a Pioneer Woman like it's a novel. Don't ask me why it took me this long, but I am currently hooked. Maybe it's because I finished my last novel and am resisting starting the next one? Anyway, because I pick up speech patterns like no one's business, her phrases have been floating through my head all week. Just keepin' it real about keepin' it real.
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
I just stick out my chin, and grin and say....
As I look around me, everyone is struggling. Kids are in constant crisis, and not just my sunshines. I hear reports of students crying, getting in trouble, losing their cool. Teachers, too, are on the brink... budget questions loom, and we have no idea what is going to make the cut or not. In short, people are on edge, and are in some serious need of a break. And we need more than a Kit Kat bar.
So where do we go from here? I go back to where I always go: strengthen your relationships. Check in on your friends and neighbors. Be kind to others, if only because you can. We may not be able to control our circumstances, but we can control how we react to them. I choose to see my glasses as half full, even when the logical side of me knows they are probably mostly empty. And on those really bad days, I do try to channel Scarlet O'Hara, and to help others do the same.
So, my dear friends and kind readers, thank you for taking the time to check in on me. I could survive with a lot less things, but my world would not be the same without each and every one of you.
Hang On...
So where do we go from here? I go back to where I always go: strengthen your relationships. Check in on your friends and neighbors. Be kind to others, if only because you can. We may not be able to control our circumstances, but we can control how we react to them. I choose to see my glasses as half full, even when the logical side of me knows they are probably mostly empty. And on those really bad days, I do try to channel Scarlet O'Hara, and to help others do the same.
So, my dear friends and kind readers, thank you for taking the time to check in on me. I could survive with a lot less things, but my world would not be the same without each and every one of you.
Hang On...
Sunday, April 10, 2011
{this moment}
Monday, April 04, 2011
... and we're back!
So I know I've been quiet... I haven't forgotten you all, but I have been too distracted to write all those thoughts down. It's too much to explain, so let me try to sum up:
*It's now April, and we're in this weird not-yet-fourth-quarter-because-of-snow-pushed-the-end-of-third-quarter week. Vacation is 9 working days away. Not quite sure how this has all happened, but here we are.
*This year continues to challenge me, mostly emotionally. Things get really bad, and I stand on the edge of breaking, and then am able to step back and breathe. Today was a good day: multiple kids showed some serious gains and self restraint. Tomorrow is a new day, and one never knows, but today was a good day.
*I was overwhelmed with the love and well wishes from all my peeps on my rather snowy birthday. It is always overwhelming to be carried along on such a wave of love. One of the best parts of being a teacher is getting to watch kids become adults. In the midst of all sorts of chaos that seems like it's the most important thing EVER (do you remember your SAT scores, or the score of the championship game? Me either!) they figure out who they are and what matters to them. And when they take the time to send me birthday greetings, it melts my heart.
No matter what, I love my job. I can not imagine doing anything else, and if I'm lucky, I'll never have to.
*It's now April, and we're in this weird not-yet-fourth-quarter-because-of-snow-pushed-the-end-of-third-quarter week. Vacation is 9 working days away. Not quite sure how this has all happened, but here we are.
*This year continues to challenge me, mostly emotionally. Things get really bad, and I stand on the edge of breaking, and then am able to step back and breathe. Today was a good day: multiple kids showed some serious gains and self restraint. Tomorrow is a new day, and one never knows, but today was a good day.
*I was overwhelmed with the love and well wishes from all my peeps on my rather snowy birthday. It is always overwhelming to be carried along on such a wave of love. One of the best parts of being a teacher is getting to watch kids become adults. In the midst of all sorts of chaos that seems like it's the most important thing EVER (do you remember your SAT scores, or the score of the championship game? Me either!) they figure out who they are and what matters to them. And when they take the time to send me birthday greetings, it melts my heart.
No matter what, I love my job. I can not imagine doing anything else, and if I'm lucky, I'll never have to.
Friday, April 01, 2011
{this moment}
Sunday, March 20, 2011
{this *spring* moment}
Saturday, March 12, 2011
{this moment}
Saturday, March 05, 2011
{this moment}
Thursday, March 03, 2011
even half full glasses empty sometimes
Have you ever had one of those days where you feel completely ineffective, and you start to wonder why you bother?
Welcome to my week.
(I'll be back when I've regained my stride.)
Welcome to my week.
(I'll be back when I've regained my stride.)
Friday, February 25, 2011
{this moment}
A Friday ritual from my friend Wendy, who got it from SouleMama. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week.
Although I'm not the best rule follower ever... they're about the same 8 hour {moment} so as far as I'm concerned, it works.
[And, it is way easier to do this on Friday when it is the Friday of vacation :) ]
[And, it is way easier to do this on Friday when it is the Friday of vacation :) ]
Thursday, February 24, 2011
right there in the middle of vacation, a PLC broke out...
Another teacher friend posted this on FaceBook this morning, and it made me think. Go check it out, I'll wait.
http://prezi.com/aww2hjfyil0u/math-is-not-linear/
So, my math teacher friends, what do you think?
http://prezi.com/aww2hjfyil0u/math-is-not-linear/
So, my math teacher friends, what do you think?
Sunday, February 20, 2011
{this moment}
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
seriously.
So I'm reading my Time magazine while the students are taking a State sponsored drug and alcohol survey, and I see a new ad. For organic tobacco. Irony much?
Seriously, people-- this organic craze has gone a bit too far.
Seriously, people-- this organic craze has gone a bit too far.
Friday, February 11, 2011
{this *birthday* moment}
Wednesday, February 02, 2011
thankful
I've had two friends, Amity and Deus ex Machina, post about being thankful recently. There is so much for which I am thankful. In no particular order...
Enough. I have all that I need and much of what I want. We have food, heat, shelter, clothing, reliable transportation, toys, and the ability to share what we have with those we love.
Relationships. There are so many people who enrich my life. I am lucky to have people to lean on bad days and to celebrate with on the good ones.
Vocation. I have found a job that I love, that allows me to give back and help make the world a bit brighter, and challenges me regularly. And provides me with a sufficient paycheck and time with my family. It is the best of all possible worlds, and I count my blessings daily.
Home. I love where I live, on this dead end road in this drafty old farmhouse. I love the change in seasons, and being able to experience heat in summer and snow in winter, the beauty of fall and and spring, and yes, even mud season! It's never boring around here, and I am grateful for the variety.
Optimism. My glass is always half full. I am glad to not be the Debbie Downer of the room.
Bestfriends. Knowing that you can call in an emergency, no matter the time of day or night, and have the unconditional support you need... it is a blessing.
Marriage. I am often struck by how lucky I am to have found someone to share my life with... and that it is truly a joint venture. Together we are raising two amazing children, and are growing closer with each passing year. I used to think that was true for everyone, but I now know just how blessed we are.
Enough. I have all that I need and much of what I want. We have food, heat, shelter, clothing, reliable transportation, toys, and the ability to share what we have with those we love.
Relationships. There are so many people who enrich my life. I am lucky to have people to lean on bad days and to celebrate with on the good ones.
Vocation. I have found a job that I love, that allows me to give back and help make the world a bit brighter, and challenges me regularly. And provides me with a sufficient paycheck and time with my family. It is the best of all possible worlds, and I count my blessings daily.
Home. I love where I live, on this dead end road in this drafty old farmhouse. I love the change in seasons, and being able to experience heat in summer and snow in winter, the beauty of fall and and spring, and yes, even mud season! It's never boring around here, and I am grateful for the variety.
Optimism. My glass is always half full. I am glad to not be the Debbie Downer of the room.
Bestfriends. Knowing that you can call in an emergency, no matter the time of day or night, and have the unconditional support you need... it is a blessing.
Marriage. I am often struck by how lucky I am to have found someone to share my life with... and that it is truly a joint venture. Together we are raising two amazing children, and are growing closer with each passing year. I used to think that was true for everyone, but I now know just how blessed we are.
Saturday, January 29, 2011
{this moment}
Monday, January 24, 2011
it takes a village
And that village showed up tonight.
Parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and family friends. Teachers, who were there to support the students and to support me. Administrators, current and former students. Nieces and nephews. A room full of love and support for 2 wonderful boys who are now high school graduates.
When I look out at an event like this, I get choked up. Partly because graduations always make me cry happy tears, but mostly because you don't often get to see what love looks like, and I get to, almost every year.
I believe in the importance of connectedness. (My Loyal Readers can attest!) I know that it takes more than one person to help us make it. We all need friends, family, teachers, and community members checking in and cheering for our success and supporting us in our mistakes. And while there are different levels of involvement, they are all vital. On nights like this, I get to see it, and feel it, and give it shape and form.
I love my job. It is often really, really hard, but it is always rewarding. Congratulations, boys. I am very, very proud. Thank you for letting me be a part of your village.
Parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and family friends. Teachers, who were there to support the students and to support me. Administrators, current and former students. Nieces and nephews. A room full of love and support for 2 wonderful boys who are now high school graduates.
When I look out at an event like this, I get choked up. Partly because graduations always make me cry happy tears, but mostly because you don't often get to see what love looks like, and I get to, almost every year.
I believe in the importance of connectedness. (My Loyal Readers can attest!) I know that it takes more than one person to help us make it. We all need friends, family, teachers, and community members checking in and cheering for our success and supporting us in our mistakes. And while there are different levels of involvement, they are all vital. On nights like this, I get to see it, and feel it, and give it shape and form.
I love my job. It is often really, really hard, but it is always rewarding. Congratulations, boys. I am very, very proud. Thank you for letting me be a part of your village.
Sunday, January 23, 2011
learning to trust herself
"Mumma, how do you make your chip dip?"
Most of you can answer this question without my description, and because you know how 'semi-homemade' it is, you are giggling as I was earlier.
"Take sour cream, and add onion soup mix."
She asked for a few more details, like how much cream and how much dip. Until it looks right, honey.
Shockingly, she headed off into the kitchen, by herself, and made it. Asked for my help tasting it, and agreed it could use more soup mix. "Is it right now?"
The smile on her face when it was finished was like she'd just made a souffle.
So much of cooking is tweaking the recipe until it looks and tastes right. As kids we started with chip dip, too, and moved on to create our own Chex mix... and from there, any recipe we thought looked good. Mom was around, but we quickly got to the point where we'd tackle anything, even without her standing next to us to help. Today, I mostly look at recipes to confirm that I'm on the right track with whatever I'm doing. This is one family trait I'm happy to have her take with her.
Most of you can answer this question without my description, and because you know how 'semi-homemade' it is, you are giggling as I was earlier.
"Take sour cream, and add onion soup mix."
She asked for a few more details, like how much cream and how much dip. Until it looks right, honey.
Shockingly, she headed off into the kitchen, by herself, and made it. Asked for my help tasting it, and agreed it could use more soup mix. "Is it right now?"
The smile on her face when it was finished was like she'd just made a souffle.
So much of cooking is tweaking the recipe until it looks and tastes right. As kids we started with chip dip, too, and moved on to create our own Chex mix... and from there, any recipe we thought looked good. Mom was around, but we quickly got to the point where we'd tackle anything, even without her standing next to us to help. Today, I mostly look at recipes to confirm that I'm on the right track with whatever I'm doing. This is one family trait I'm happy to have her take with her.
Friday, January 21, 2011
{this *proud* moment}
Friday, January 14, 2011
{this moment}
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
and I didn't even need Mommy's Little Helper to pull it off
I have always loved to cook. All my siblings do. We used to make cookies after school... which turned into teaching ourselves to make blondies, and chex mix, and anything else we wanted for an after school snack. From there, it was an easy leap to making dinner when we got home before Mom and Dad. (My mom still tells the story of my brother calling her at work after school one day asking what it "hard crack stage" meant. She did panic a bit on that one.)
Sometimes, cooking is a means to an end. We're hungry, we need to eat, therefore, someone must cook. But sometimes, I feel like Kitchen Goddess, where I combine my love of cooking with my love of recycling and my Yankee frugality.
Last week I made a roasted chicken with roasted veggies. This was a HUGE chicken from a local family, so I knew we'd get at least 2 full meals out of it, plus some lunch leftovers. It did not disappoint. As I was cutting the rest of the meat off the carcass (which I of course turned into stock) I was pondering what they might become. I remembered the turkey gravy in the freezer, left over from the most recent turkey. And then I saw the buttermilk purchased for Girly's birthday whoopie pies... and then I knew. Pot pie, baby. Oh yea.
So today after Boy's ski meet, I threw the cut up chicken, prepped leftover roasted veggies, and gravy into the pot, heated it 'til the gravy boiled, and transferred it into my casserole dish. Made Bisquick biscuits (which are just like dumplings but rolled out instead of dropped into hot soup) with buttermilk instead of regular milk. Half the batch is now covering said dinner, the other half is baked off as regular old biscuits for breakfast this week. Dinner was going in the oven as my boys were coming through the door. Goddess, yes, I believe I am.
It's meals like this one that make me channel my inner 1950s housewife. I don't like to get pushed around by anyone, male or female, but there is something satisfying about knowing how to get every last bite out of your food dollar and then combining it all into a delicious recipe of your own creation. Housewife or not, that's a good day.
Sometimes, cooking is a means to an end. We're hungry, we need to eat, therefore, someone must cook. But sometimes, I feel like Kitchen Goddess, where I combine my love of cooking with my love of recycling and my Yankee frugality.
Last week I made a roasted chicken with roasted veggies. This was a HUGE chicken from a local family, so I knew we'd get at least 2 full meals out of it, plus some lunch leftovers. It did not disappoint. As I was cutting the rest of the meat off the carcass (which I of course turned into stock) I was pondering what they might become. I remembered the turkey gravy in the freezer, left over from the most recent turkey. And then I saw the buttermilk purchased for Girly's birthday whoopie pies... and then I knew. Pot pie, baby. Oh yea.
So today after Boy's ski meet, I threw the cut up chicken, prepped leftover roasted veggies, and gravy into the pot, heated it 'til the gravy boiled, and transferred it into my casserole dish. Made Bisquick biscuits (which are just like dumplings but rolled out instead of dropped into hot soup) with buttermilk instead of regular milk. Half the batch is now covering said dinner, the other half is baked off as regular old biscuits for breakfast this week. Dinner was going in the oven as my boys were coming through the door. Goddess, yes, I believe I am.
It's meals like this one that make me channel my inner 1950s housewife. I don't like to get pushed around by anyone, male or female, but there is something satisfying about knowing how to get every last bite out of your food dollar and then combining it all into a delicious recipe of your own creation. Housewife or not, that's a good day.
Saturday, January 08, 2011
{this moment}
Saturday, January 01, 2011
healthy, wealthy, and wise
Since I started kindergarten in 1975 I've been tied to the school calendar. I think of today as being a continuation of my year, rather than the start of something new. I mean, when I go back to work I'll have the same kids in the same grades; change doesn't happen until June when everything is shaken up by graduation.
Except for making Resolutions, which I faithfully make and sometimes keep.
I guess it's the act of reflecting and reorganizing that appeals to me. And the optimism that comes with it-- that this year, I really will [insert goal here]. That every January 1, I get a chance to try again.
So, with a shout out to Ben Franklin for the theme, here goes nothing.
Healthy:
I'll try to follow Cooking Light's 12 Healthy Habits challenge. I like that they're focusing on one change a month, like eating more fruits and veggies in January and moving more in February. The idea, of course, is that once you get through the month the habit has stuck and you're ready to move on. We'll see if I can master 12 healthy changes in 12 months... I am giving myself permission to change the timeline as fits my life.
Wealthy:
I want us to be smarter about our finances: to be more conscious of what I'm spending and do a better job of saving. I don't want to be rich, but I want to be debt free. Becoming debt free this year is not realistic, but changing how we handle our money is.
Wise:
I need to spend more time reading and writing. Which might mean less time on this machine... which could make this the hardest one of them all.
Except for making Resolutions, which I faithfully make and sometimes keep.
I guess it's the act of reflecting and reorganizing that appeals to me. And the optimism that comes with it-- that this year, I really will [insert goal here]. That every January 1, I get a chance to try again.
So, with a shout out to Ben Franklin for the theme, here goes nothing.
Healthy:
I'll try to follow Cooking Light's 12 Healthy Habits challenge. I like that they're focusing on one change a month, like eating more fruits and veggies in January and moving more in February. The idea, of course, is that once you get through the month the habit has stuck and you're ready to move on. We'll see if I can master 12 healthy changes in 12 months... I am giving myself permission to change the timeline as fits my life.
Wealthy:
I want us to be smarter about our finances: to be more conscious of what I'm spending and do a better job of saving. I don't want to be rich, but I want to be debt free. Becoming debt free this year is not realistic, but changing how we handle our money is.
Wise:
I need to spend more time reading and writing. Which might mean less time on this machine... which could make this the hardest one of them all.
Friday, December 31, 2010
{these moments}
Saturday, December 25, 2010
{this *holiday* moment}
tradition
We spent Christmas Eve as we always do, with friends in town. The players change with time, and the venue has too, but the sentiment is the same: it is the closest I come to church. We socialize, enjoy amazing food, and read Christmas stories to each other. Every year is different, but the love is the same. Powerful stuff, if the truth be told.
I have always been fortunate with friends. Ok, maybe not always, but in my adult life for sure. I met some amazing people in college (and we hope to get together every November....) and am surrounded by incredible people here. But the longest friend I have was actually my sister's friend first. Let me sum up:
MVP lived about 2 miles from our house. She and my sis were best friends off and off through elementary school, but it 'stuck' in high school. (Best costume ever was the year they were a clothes line: they were each trees with a bit of line between them and mittens hanging off it. Nowadays they'd have to take it apart because of safety issues, but in 1980-whatever-it-was, it rocked BHS.) We all ran cross country together (and by "ran" I really mean "limped along the course to cross a finish line and score pathetic points"...) and became a solid group before too long. For many years, Sis and I would head to her house before heading to the Christmas Eve service at our church. Now, keep in mind that said friend was Greek. Which meant Greek pastries. So no matter how many Aunts were in the kitchen working on finishing touches, we were happy to stay in the living room out of the way, exchange gifts... and of course we'll sample the wares while we're around...
Her mother always served us ginger ale, in a paper cup. Every year. It was part of what happened: amazing baklava, and paper cups of soda. Flash forward 10 years, and her mom passed away after a battle with cancer. And now every Christmas Eve, I remember that first tradition that was mine, and not my parents, and toast Mrs. V's memory. This year, my children realized Santa doesn't like milk AT ALL, and would much rather have a Coke. So here's to you, Mrs. V. It's not ginger ale in a paper cup, but it is given with love by some wonderful children. I have no doubt you'd approve.
I have always been fortunate with friends. Ok, maybe not always, but in my adult life for sure. I met some amazing people in college (and we hope to get together every November....) and am surrounded by incredible people here. But the longest friend I have was actually my sister's friend first. Let me sum up:
MVP lived about 2 miles from our house. She and my sis were best friends off and off through elementary school, but it 'stuck' in high school. (Best costume ever was the year they were a clothes line: they were each trees with a bit of line between them and mittens hanging off it. Nowadays they'd have to take it apart because of safety issues, but in 1980-whatever-it-was, it rocked BHS.) We all ran cross country together (and by "ran" I really mean "limped along the course to cross a finish line and score pathetic points"...) and became a solid group before too long. For many years, Sis and I would head to her house before heading to the Christmas Eve service at our church. Now, keep in mind that said friend was Greek. Which meant Greek pastries. So no matter how many Aunts were in the kitchen working on finishing touches, we were happy to stay in the living room out of the way, exchange gifts... and of course we'll sample the wares while we're around...
Her mother always served us ginger ale, in a paper cup. Every year. It was part of what happened: amazing baklava, and paper cups of soda. Flash forward 10 years, and her mom passed away after a battle with cancer. And now every Christmas Eve, I remember that first tradition that was mine, and not my parents, and toast Mrs. V's memory. This year, my children realized Santa doesn't like milk AT ALL, and would much rather have a Coke. So here's to you, Mrs. V. It's not ginger ale in a paper cup, but it is given with love by some wonderful children. I have no doubt you'd approve.
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
disclaimer
For the record, I don't tell these tales looking for accolades. I tell them because writing about them helps me process. To be able to "let it go" when I've had a rough day. All the love I get from all of you is an added bonus.
So thank you for supporting me. It really does make my job easier.
So thank you for supporting me. It really does make my job easier.
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
lessons of the Magi
Most years the holiday season brings a bit of stress into our happy classroom. I've come to expect it. But this year... well, let's just say it fits in with the theme of The Hardest Year Ever. So what's my response? Just keep swimming. We made sugar cookies today... and 3 kids participated. Maybe 4 kids worked on the gingerbread house. Yesterday I couldn't even read them The Gift of the Magi without complaints.("What do we do if we've heard this already?" Heard this already? I hear it at least twice a year and it STILL makes me cry! You'll listen and like it!) So, I compromised, and showed the Bert and Ernie version, where Bert trades his paperclip collection to Mr. Hooper for a soap dish for rubber duckie, and Ernie trades RD for a cigar box for the paperclip collection. Mr. Hooper, who is Jewish and doesn't even celebrate Christmas, then saves the day by returning the prized possessions. (If you want to see it yourself, I found it on YouTube. Christmas Eve on Sesame Street. Clips are intermixed and I'm not savy enough to grab them.) For about 15 minutes, they were playing along. They got it. They understood why I love this story, whether about Jim and Della or Bert and Ernie. I told them the story of Devon's washing machine and all the checks flowing in... and the one friend who gave 'everything that was in my wallet', which was a number resembling $1.87. And I cried when I read them the final paragraph, as I do every time, and I heard Devon reading along with me. Of all who give and receive gifts, such as they are the wisest. Everywhere they are the wisest. They are the magi.
If I do nothing else in this job, I want to fill them to overflowing with kindness and love and happy memories. I want them to know that someone enjoyed spending time with them. That someone thinks about them fondly, and tells stories about them for years and years. I know I don't send them away having mastered all the academics they're supposed to, and yes, that does bother me. But, I think anyway, I do send them away feeling important. And if that is all I do... that is enough.
If I do nothing else in this job, I want to fill them to overflowing with kindness and love and happy memories. I want them to know that someone enjoyed spending time with them. That someone thinks about them fondly, and tells stories about them for years and years. I know I don't send them away having mastered all the academics they're supposed to, and yes, that does bother me. But, I think anyway, I do send them away feeling important. And if that is all I do... that is enough.
Saturday, December 18, 2010
{this moment}
Saturday, December 11, 2010
{this moment}
Monday, December 06, 2010
It's not the lottery, but it may as well be!
http://amyshertzerphotography.wordpress.com/2010/12/05/we-have-another-winner-bozeman-family-photographer/
To say I'm excited is an understatement. Oh, how I love pictures... and a photo session with this amazing photographer and my nephews... I just might book plane tickets this week :)
To say I'm excited is an understatement. Oh, how I love pictures... and a photo session with this amazing photographer and my nephews... I just might book plane tickets this week :)
Friday, December 03, 2010
{this moment}
Sunday, November 28, 2010
thankful
It's been a big week of being conscious of being so lucky. And a big week for eating... which reminds me again just how lucky I am. It's like the Morton's Salt Girl of Thankfulness.
We started with Sunshine Thanksgiving on Tuesday. I can't really describe the magic of the event. To the outside world, I guess it doesn't look like much. But when I hear each reason they all have to be thankful... well, it gets me every time. I love that I am able to build that kind of relationship with them-- that school is not just for work, but it is also for positive relationships.
From there we headed to Cape Cod. It was a low key event this year, as Dave's brother in law had broken both his arms a few months ago, so his sister's family sat this one out. There were only 6 of us, and so the stress of having it all ready "on time" evaporated... we just cooked and played solitaire and Boggle and enjoyed each other. And then we ate. 4 pies for 6 people is a bit overkill, as was a 20+ pound bird... But then there are leftovers...
Yesterday Girly and I headed out shopping with some friends. We didn't get much, nor did we find any great deals. It started as an attempt to find more ideas for our PTO holiday store, but became a delightful day spent with wonderful people. Driving home in the unexpected snow wasn't as much fun... but we made it home, safe and sound.
Today was Gamma Day. Very few people in the world celebrate this holiday, yet it has become one of my favorites. It started when we'd go to Thanksgiving meals with 15ish people, and there were never enough leftovers to go around. So, we'd cook a second dinner for us, and invite our bestfriends over to share. The Bean named it in honor of her Gamma, and so it became our holiday. It's not always right after Thanksgiving-- we've had them in March before-- but they tend to be. And so we ended our three turkey week as it began; sharing our bounty with people we love and care about. I am incredibly thankful, for all the things and all the people, which put together make my life complete.
We started with Sunshine Thanksgiving on Tuesday. I can't really describe the magic of the event. To the outside world, I guess it doesn't look like much. But when I hear each reason they all have to be thankful... well, it gets me every time. I love that I am able to build that kind of relationship with them-- that school is not just for work, but it is also for positive relationships.
From there we headed to Cape Cod. It was a low key event this year, as Dave's brother in law had broken both his arms a few months ago, so his sister's family sat this one out. There were only 6 of us, and so the stress of having it all ready "on time" evaporated... we just cooked and played solitaire and Boggle and enjoyed each other. And then we ate. 4 pies for 6 people is a bit overkill, as was a 20+ pound bird... But then there are leftovers...
Yesterday Girly and I headed out shopping with some friends. We didn't get much, nor did we find any great deals. It started as an attempt to find more ideas for our PTO holiday store, but became a delightful day spent with wonderful people. Driving home in the unexpected snow wasn't as much fun... but we made it home, safe and sound.
Today was Gamma Day. Very few people in the world celebrate this holiday, yet it has become one of my favorites. It started when we'd go to Thanksgiving meals with 15ish people, and there were never enough leftovers to go around. So, we'd cook a second dinner for us, and invite our bestfriends over to share. The Bean named it in honor of her Gamma, and so it became our holiday. It's not always right after Thanksgiving-- we've had them in March before-- but they tend to be. And so we ended our three turkey week as it began; sharing our bounty with people we love and care about. I am incredibly thankful, for all the things and all the people, which put together make my life complete.
Saturday, November 27, 2010
{that moment}
This was last week's {moment}, but Blogger wasn't playing nicely with my pictures. I'm breaking all the "no words" rules, but this one deserves it. My kids rallied around their own and helped him through the night. I have never been prouder of them than I was then... no mocking, no teasing. Just love. Oh, I do love this bunch, and they do make me so proud...
Saturday, November 20, 2010
{this moment}
Friday, November 19, 2010
the season of the Grinch
As I think most of you know, I often take Friday detention. I certainly like the paycheck: I submit all my dates at once so it's a decent chunk of money (which yes, I do use to make an extra payment on something. Aren't I just a Responsible Engine?) But the $30 a week is not enough to keep me coming back... the real reason is because it gives me 2 hours to hang with the kids on the fringes and try to help them move forward. To let them spend time in a negative situation with someone who does enjoy spending time with them, even when they make bad choices.
Some weeks they come in quiet and resigned, other times fired up and looking for a distraction. If I told you the full moon for this month is in 2 days, would you be able to guess what sort of week this was? We weren't 5 minutes into the DT when I knew it was going to be a rough one. We made it, but it wasn't pretty. I left feeling like I let them down, and that my heart is too big to do this anymore. I'm already emotionally spent by 2:30PM on Friday, and to stick around for another 2 hours, in some ways doing an even tougher job than the first? I must be insane...
And on the drive home, I saw 2 kids walking. One had spent time with me, the other waiting around for the first. The two rides they'd lined up to bring them the 8 miles home fell through. I had my daughter's friend in the car to come play at our house, but I just couldn't drive by: in the dark and freezing cold, I knew they didn't have many options. "You're going to have to indulge me hon..." She was silent from the back seat, but really, what could she say?
As we left their driveway, I gave her my standard speech. "No matter how mad you get at your parents (and you WILL get mad at them) I hope you always remember just how lucky you are." Her 2 word reply, while simple, seemed heartfelt. Sixteen miles later we were back to where we started. " Thank you for letting me sleep tonight." I couldn't say more, because it's not safe to drive while you're crying.
I believe in paying it forward, and live by trying to leave everything I encounter better than I found it. My detentions are not the strictest ones around, make no doubt about that... but I sure hope they leave knowing I enjoyed spending time with them. Because even when they make me mad and break my heart, I keep coming back...
Some weeks they come in quiet and resigned, other times fired up and looking for a distraction. If I told you the full moon for this month is in 2 days, would you be able to guess what sort of week this was? We weren't 5 minutes into the DT when I knew it was going to be a rough one. We made it, but it wasn't pretty. I left feeling like I let them down, and that my heart is too big to do this anymore. I'm already emotionally spent by 2:30PM on Friday, and to stick around for another 2 hours, in some ways doing an even tougher job than the first? I must be insane...
And on the drive home, I saw 2 kids walking. One had spent time with me, the other waiting around for the first. The two rides they'd lined up to bring them the 8 miles home fell through. I had my daughter's friend in the car to come play at our house, but I just couldn't drive by: in the dark and freezing cold, I knew they didn't have many options. "You're going to have to indulge me hon..." She was silent from the back seat, but really, what could she say?
As we left their driveway, I gave her my standard speech. "No matter how mad you get at your parents (and you WILL get mad at them) I hope you always remember just how lucky you are." Her 2 word reply, while simple, seemed heartfelt. Sixteen miles later we were back to where we started. " Thank you for letting me sleep tonight." I couldn't say more, because it's not safe to drive while you're crying.
I believe in paying it forward, and live by trying to leave everything I encounter better than I found it. My detentions are not the strictest ones around, make no doubt about that... but I sure hope they leave knowing I enjoyed spending time with them. Because even when they make me mad and break my heart, I keep coming back...
Thursday, November 18, 2010
red crosses look a lot like plus signs
I gave blood this week at our school drive. I like that I am able to give blood... but I hate the act of giving, especially at school. I always worry that things will go wrong while I'm out saving the world, but I can't have the vampires that close without giving it my best shot. Let me sum up...
I've always been a tricky donor. My first attempt at giving was successful... sort of. I was a senior in high school, and I just made the required 110 weight (I know, those were the days, huh?). I gave, sat up, and got escorted to the cantine. My sister and her best friend were working, and BFF looked at me and said "Do you feel alright?" I don't remember the bell ringing, or me being carried back to a table. Or my sister fainting after seeing me faint before her eyes. Good times.... but hey, I waited until they had a full pint before passing out, so mission accomplished, right?
I haven't passed out since then, but I have had a couple of unsuccessful attempts. Between low iron (I learned to ask them to spin it instead of using the drop...nowadays it's all computerized somehow, but hey, I pass every time!) and being a slow bleeder, I was batting .500 for awhile. I did finally have one tech tell me to force water all day, and that little trick has got me in under the 20 minute wire ever since.
When I was taking an online Children's Lit class 10 years ago, I brought one of my required novels along with me... and that was true inspiration! Kiddie Lit tends to be light enough you can hold it with one hand while you give, and the print is a bit larger, so you can read it while laying on the table and pumping the rolling pin thingy. I could dominate an entire book in a session. Win-win.
All these little tricks make it more likely that I'll complete the task (except for the one time in the bloodmobile that I was so claustrophobic that they couldn't get me to bleed at all), but I still hate the process. The waiting, the questions (I have not had relations with anyone I shouldn't have, thank you very much!)... and the 20 minutes on the table. I don't mind the stick as much as the queasy feeling I get while giving. Just typing this is making me feel queasy.
So why do I keep going, you ask? Because I can. Because 90 minutes of my discomfort could save someone's life. And because of that, I will try every time.
I've always been a tricky donor. My first attempt at giving was successful... sort of. I was a senior in high school, and I just made the required 110 weight (I know, those were the days, huh?). I gave, sat up, and got escorted to the cantine. My sister and her best friend were working, and BFF looked at me and said "Do you feel alright?" I don't remember the bell ringing, or me being carried back to a table. Or my sister fainting after seeing me faint before her eyes. Good times.... but hey, I waited until they had a full pint before passing out, so mission accomplished, right?
I haven't passed out since then, but I have had a couple of unsuccessful attempts. Between low iron (I learned to ask them to spin it instead of using the drop...nowadays it's all computerized somehow, but hey, I pass every time!) and being a slow bleeder, I was batting .500 for awhile. I did finally have one tech tell me to force water all day, and that little trick has got me in under the 20 minute wire ever since.
When I was taking an online Children's Lit class 10 years ago, I brought one of my required novels along with me... and that was true inspiration! Kiddie Lit tends to be light enough you can hold it with one hand while you give, and the print is a bit larger, so you can read it while laying on the table and pumping the rolling pin thingy. I could dominate an entire book in a session. Win-win.
All these little tricks make it more likely that I'll complete the task (except for the one time in the bloodmobile that I was so claustrophobic that they couldn't get me to bleed at all), but I still hate the process. The waiting, the questions (I have not had relations with anyone I shouldn't have, thank you very much!)... and the 20 minutes on the table. I don't mind the stick as much as the queasy feeling I get while giving. Just typing this is making me feel queasy.
So why do I keep going, you ask? Because I can. Because 90 minutes of my discomfort could save someone's life. And because of that, I will try every time.
Saturday, November 13, 2010
{this moment}
Thursday, November 11, 2010
looking up
Monday, November 08, 2010
just keep swimming
Just another day in muddville today...
20 kids with 20 different reasons for being there.
I may not be able to save every kid. But that doesn't mean I am not going to try.
20 kids with 20 different reasons for being there.
I may not be able to save every kid. But that doesn't mean I am not going to try.
Sunday, November 07, 2010
compassion, defined
Girly asked me today if I was an organ donor. Out of the blue. I am, of course.
"Am I?"
Good God in Heaven, how can I even ponder such a concept?
If the unthinkable happened, and parts of you could be used to make another child, another family, whole again, without hesitation yes...
And as my eyes filled with tears at the very thought, she reached out to comfort me.
"Good", she said with a smile on her face.
She is something, that Girly of ours...
"Am I?"
Good God in Heaven, how can I even ponder such a concept?
If the unthinkable happened, and parts of you could be used to make another child, another family, whole again, without hesitation yes...
And as my eyes filled with tears at the very thought, she reached out to comfort me.
"Good", she said with a smile on her face.
She is something, that Girly of ours...
Friday, November 05, 2010
{this moment}
Wednesday, November 03, 2010
it's so much easier when you've got someone to lean on
Yesterday I had a meeting after school. We start these meetings with a check in: we go around the table and everyone says something-- life is good, my truck is dead, had a hard day, it's my birthday... even "I've got nothing" is an option. Mine included a reflection of all that's going on... and the acknowledgment that, in spite of it all, I love my job. I am making gains. We are making gains. It could always be worse. And on those bad days, there are people around who will hold me up until I can stand on my own again.
Meeting continues, I get picked up by WB because his truck died and he took the van to run errands. We call for a tow truck, vote in the statewide election, and continue on our day. Later in the evening I get a text from a Sunshine telling me about all that happened in his afternoon... and suffice it to say it put our parked-truck-with-leaking-brakes story to shame. Monday night I had a graduated Sunshine call because "I always feel better after talking to you". Two others popped in after school, just because they could.
It may not look like it every day, but we are getting somewhere. I may not be able to solve many of their problems, but at least they don't have to go through it alone.
Meeting continues, I get picked up by WB because his truck died and he took the van to run errands. We call for a tow truck, vote in the statewide election, and continue on our day. Later in the evening I get a text from a Sunshine telling me about all that happened in his afternoon... and suffice it to say it put our parked-truck-with-leaking-brakes story to shame. Monday night I had a graduated Sunshine call because "I always feel better after talking to you". Two others popped in after school, just because they could.
It may not look like it every day, but we are getting somewhere. I may not be able to solve many of their problems, but at least they don't have to go through it alone.
Saturday, October 30, 2010
hold on
This could evolve into a picture blog... my head is still full and spinning with all the changes happening around me. Words right now are overwhelming... and the interwebs too public of a forum. I have so much to say, but no energy to say it.
Please do not take my silence for apathy. I hope to be back to regular writing before too long, but until then...I take comfort in pictures and the words of others.
Please do not take my silence for apathy. I hope to be back to regular writing before too long, but until then...I take comfort in pictures and the words of others.
{this moment}
Friday, October 22, 2010
{this moment}
Thursday, October 21, 2010
We Can Get Together --The Hold Steady
She played "Heaven Isn't Happening"
She played "Heaven Is A Truck"
She said Heavenly was cool, I think they were from Oxford
I only had one single, it was a song about a pure and simple love
There's a "Girl On Heaven Hill"
I come up to her cabin still
She said Husker Du got huge, but they started in St. Paul
Do you remember "Makes No Sense At All?"
And heaven is the whole of the heart
And paradise is by the dashboard light
Utopia's a band, they sang "Love Is The Answer"
And I think they're probably right
Let it shine down on us all
Let it warm us from within
He wasn't just the drummer, he was the singer's younger brother
I still spin that single, but it don't sound that simple
Let it shine down on us all
Let it warm us from within
He wasn't just the drummer, he was someone's little brother
I still spin that single, but it don't sound that simple anymore
Heaven is whenever we can get together
Sit down on your floor and listen to your records
Heaven is whenever we can get together
Lock your bedroom door and listen to your records
Heaven is whenever we can get together
Heaven is whenever we can get together
Heaven is whenever we can get together
Heaven is whenever we can get together
Heaven is whenever
She played "Heaven Is A Truck"
She said Heavenly was cool, I think they were from Oxford
I only had one single, it was a song about a pure and simple love
There's a "Girl On Heaven Hill"
I come up to her cabin still
She said Husker Du got huge, but they started in St. Paul
Do you remember "Makes No Sense At All?"
And heaven is the whole of the heart
And paradise is by the dashboard light
Utopia's a band, they sang "Love Is The Answer"
And I think they're probably right
Let it shine down on us all
Let it warm us from within
He wasn't just the drummer, he was the singer's younger brother
I still spin that single, but it don't sound that simple
Let it shine down on us all
Let it warm us from within
He wasn't just the drummer, he was someone's little brother
I still spin that single, but it don't sound that simple anymore
Heaven is whenever we can get together
Sit down on your floor and listen to your records
Heaven is whenever we can get together
Lock your bedroom door and listen to your records
Heaven is whenever we can get together
Heaven is whenever we can get together
Heaven is whenever we can get together
Heaven is whenever we can get together
Heaven is whenever
Saturday, October 16, 2010
craving, doing, thankful for
From my friend Amity. Great idea.
craving:
an entire weekend with nothing to do
(no wood, no raking, no events)
time to nap in the sun, cook with abandon, laugh with friends
doing:
cleaning the kitchen, stacking wood, connecting online
cooking
scrapbooking.... if I'm lucky
thankful for:
my functional, loving, supportive family
the sunshines
a job I love even when it is overwhelming
children who know who they are and what makes them happy
true friends
a husband I enjoy being with, and he with me
having enough but not too much
being content and at peace with myself
If you read, consider yourself tagged. Leave a comment with your thoughts.... or post your own on your space :)
craving:
an entire weekend with nothing to do
(no wood, no raking, no events)
time to nap in the sun, cook with abandon, laugh with friends
doing:
cleaning the kitchen, stacking wood, connecting online
cooking
scrapbooking.... if I'm lucky
thankful for:
my functional, loving, supportive family
the sunshines
a job I love even when it is overwhelming
children who know who they are and what makes them happy
true friends
a husband I enjoy being with, and he with me
having enough but not too much
being content and at peace with myself
If you read, consider yourself tagged. Leave a comment with your thoughts.... or post your own on your space :)
Friday, October 15, 2010
{this moment}
Friday, October 08, 2010
{this moment}
Sunday, October 03, 2010
you never miss your mother 'til she's gone
This week's Project Runway was quite intense. It was the same challenge as last season when they got to design their own textile, but with an added twist: the textile had to tell a personal story. It was a great addition to an already cool challenge. Add to this a contestant sharing a secret he'd kept for 10 years on the runway... well, even if you don't watch the show, you should watch this one.
It was billed as a 2 day challenge: day 1 to design the textile and get it made, and day 2 to use said fabric. The rest of day 1 was to shop at Mood and, I don't know, make patterns or something... but it turns out, they had flown their moms (and a few other family members) to NYC to visit, and they all got a day off. To say the workroom dissolved into a puddle of tears is an understatement.
What hit me most was how much these people still shine when their mom's validate their lives. And yet, it makes perfect sense. When I went school shopping with my mom this summer we were talking about my job, and I made a comment that what I do isn't magic.. and she jumped right in and said "Yes it is! I've always known you were going to do amazing things." I was shocked, because I had never realized they were proud of me for being a teacher-- and an alternative ed teacher at that. And it felt good to hear it. Really, really good.
I'm 40 years old, and have made choices about the direction of my life regardless of whether they'd have done the same thing. This isn't to say I've intentionally done things to disappoint them at all, but I guess I also hadn't thought I was still looking for their approval. But I am. We all are. Whether we're 6 years old looking out from the risers during the holiday concert or 32 and trying to make it huge in the fashion industry where our failures are very public... as long as mom is there saying "You're amazing!" we can all hold our heads high.
It was billed as a 2 day challenge: day 1 to design the textile and get it made, and day 2 to use said fabric. The rest of day 1 was to shop at Mood and, I don't know, make patterns or something... but it turns out, they had flown their moms (and a few other family members) to NYC to visit, and they all got a day off. To say the workroom dissolved into a puddle of tears is an understatement.
What hit me most was how much these people still shine when their mom's validate their lives. And yet, it makes perfect sense. When I went school shopping with my mom this summer we were talking about my job, and I made a comment that what I do isn't magic.. and she jumped right in and said "Yes it is! I've always known you were going to do amazing things." I was shocked, because I had never realized they were proud of me for being a teacher-- and an alternative ed teacher at that. And it felt good to hear it. Really, really good.
I'm 40 years old, and have made choices about the direction of my life regardless of whether they'd have done the same thing. This isn't to say I've intentionally done things to disappoint them at all, but I guess I also hadn't thought I was still looking for their approval. But I am. We all are. Whether we're 6 years old looking out from the risers during the holiday concert or 32 and trying to make it huge in the fashion industry where our failures are very public... as long as mom is there saying "You're amazing!" we can all hold our heads high.
Saturday, October 02, 2010
{this moment}
Friday, October 01, 2010
it gets better
Eileen posted a link to this site, and wowie wow wow. Somehow, watching this, I'm disheartened and inspired all at the same time. The premise of this site is to tell kids who are homosexual suffering through middle and high school that it gets better. That it's worth enduring the humiliation; it'll get better when you get out of school. Don't give in to the desperation, don't kill yourself; it gets better.
I'm thrilled adults are taking the time to help teenagers who are suffering. The interwebs often get criticized for disconnecting people, and to see hundreds of adults reaching out to unknown kids... yea, this is certainly an upgrade. But as a high school teacher.... I'm crying. That thousands of our students are suffering the worst years of their lives with us, in our 'safe' classrooms, well, it's a reality that is incredibly hard to swallow.
I know I try to make it better for all kids, but I also know that I don't always succeed. The comfort I take is that I am trying, and that is all I can do. But until we don't need the itgetsbetterproject, I will keep trying to make it better for all kids, no matter what makes coming to school the worst part of their day.
I'm thrilled adults are taking the time to help teenagers who are suffering. The interwebs often get criticized for disconnecting people, and to see hundreds of adults reaching out to unknown kids... yea, this is certainly an upgrade. But as a high school teacher.... I'm crying. That thousands of our students are suffering the worst years of their lives with us, in our 'safe' classrooms, well, it's a reality that is incredibly hard to swallow.
I know I try to make it better for all kids, but I also know that I don't always succeed. The comfort I take is that I am trying, and that is all I can do. But until we don't need the itgetsbetterproject, I will keep trying to make it better for all kids, no matter what makes coming to school the worst part of their day.
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