The Study Guide

December 2011 Birchbox

2011-12-15T19:30:00.000-08:00

I subscribe to two beauty subscription services, GoGoGirlfriend and Birchbox, which I have talked about before. I'm not sure that I want to keep subscribing to both, so I have decided that December would be the make it or break it month. With the holidays around the corner, I expected both services to turn out pretty good boxes for December. I haven't received my December GoGoGirlfriend box yet but Birchbox came yesterday. Let's take a peek.

ShowStoppers Designer Fashion Tape, $9.99 for 24 strips

Birchbox sent two of these to sample. ShowStoppers sticks to your clothes to hold them in place so you're not flashing your friends and strangers this New Years. Since my wardrobe consists of lots of denim and cotton, I will probably pass these on to someone who can use them. In fact, if you'd like these, be the first to leave a comment here requesting this sample and it's yours!

Benefit Cosmetics The POREfessional, $29 for 0.75 fl. oz.and Harvey Prince Ageless, $55 for 50 ml or $96 for 100 ml

Benefit makes great products and The POREfessional is no exception. The POREfessional will hide those unsightly pores while providing the benefits of a velvety primer. Birchbox sent a 0.25 fl. oz. tube and this will last me a while. A little goes a long way with Benefit products.

Also in the photo is a sample of Harvey Prince's Ageless perfume. I'm not a perfume girl but this actually smells pretty wonderful. The notes are pink grapefruit, pomegranate and jasmine. Since I enjoy fruity perfumes this one is perfect for me.

Nuxe Huile Prodigieuse, $40 for 50 ml and Jouer Moisturizing Lip Gloss in Birchbox Pink, $20 for 0.21 oz.

I'm pretty excited to try this dry oil shimmer from Nuxe. You apply this to your face or body to give your skin a nice glow. You can even work a few drops into your hair for a subtle shimmer.

Jouer and Birchbox teamed up to create this lip gloss in Birchbox Pink. Birchbox Pink is a custom fuchsia. One coat gives you a nice semi-sheer pigment. If you're more daring, layer it for a more intense hot pink. I'm wearing this gloss right now and delighted to find that it isn't sticky.

EBOOST Orange Natural Energy Booster, $28 for 20 packets

Unfortuantely this is a product I will have to pass on due to my current health state. EBOOST promises a mega dose of nutrients with a tangy citrus taste. Be the first to leave a comment here requesting this sample and I will send it your way!

The verdict: I really enjoyed December's Birchbox. I might compare it to what GoGoGirlfriend sends out to make a final decision, but for now I'm keeping Birchbox.

Pound Puppies and the Owners Who Love Them

2011-09-07T20:05:00.000-07:00

I visit Just Another Pretty Farce and ran across an interesting article that I'm surprised I agree with. Blogger Kat advised her readers against getting shelter dogs. Despite having a shelter dog, I agree with her.

Colby, our 10 year old Husky-German Shepherd-Rottweiler, came to our home six years ago after living in an animal shelter after his family gave him up. He is our first dog and he came with some surprises.

First, he loves to eat paper. Newspaper, magazines, boxes, books...if it's paper, he will eat it. On one of his first paper munching adventures, he managed to eat my hard-to-find copy of Ka-Tzetnik's House of Dolls and a book signed by John Irving. He aims for the good stuff.

Colby napping after making a mess.

Second, Colby has some unique health issues. He has blisters under his tongue, compulsively licks his front paws, has a low white blood cell count and a seizure disorder. After spending money and visiting an expert vet or two, no one can explain why he has any of these problems. Talk about frustrating.

So why do I keep this old pound puppy with his host of medical issues?

If you've ever met him, and many of my readers have, you know what makes him special. Despite having what seems to be a lot of illnesses, Colby is a happy dog and if he's sick, he doesn't know it. He keeps up with our 4 year old German Shepherd quite easily; tugging on toys and chasing her in the yard. He loves to play and for a hot dog, he'll do any trick he knows. Not only does he make me happy, but people around us love him as well. He's gentle to everyone. We have a list of people who have seriously told us that they would take him if we ever needed to find him a new home and children have named their stuffed dogs in his honor. Plain and simple, he is just a big, loveable dog. He even loves our cat.

Colby and Frankie, waiting for food together.

Despite my love for Colby, I still advise that you avoid getting a dog from the shelter IF you are not ready to spend extra money and possibly deal with some behavior issues. You might save money up front but, in the long run, it might be far more expensive. Too many dogs end up back at the shelter or misplaced because the owners were not prepared for the commitment. If you are ready to love and care for an animal despite the problems it may have, the shelter is the right place to get your pet.

So do I regret getting a dog with so many issues? Not even a little bit. He makes me smile everyday and I can't put a price on that.

The Ballad of Bert and Ernie

2011-08-13T18:37:00.000-07:00

Have any of you seen this petition going around to get Bert and Ernie of Sesame Street married? The original intention of Bert and Ernie was to show how two people, or puppets in this case, can get along despite being very different. I see no reason for Bert and Ernie to get married because they are busy teaching children a very important lesson. I know I'd be mighty bored if all of my friends were exactly like me! And, really, Ernie is just not mature enough for such a commitment. But should Sesame Street even have a same sex couple at all? You bet your gay pride flag they should!

One thing people at a Facebook forum pointed out is that Sesame Street should be about teaching letters, numbers, colors and shapes but not sexuality. Fair enough. I agree with that. However, how is it that a heterosexual couple (i.e. Maria and Luis) isn't teaching sexuality but a homosexual couple is suddenly teaching sexuality? Are straight married couples not having sex? Population stats beg to differ.

But why not show a same-sex couple, raising their children on the Street? They don't have to announce they're homosexual any more than we expect Maria and Luis to shout, "Hey, y'all, we're straight!" Just show them existing like the normal people they are. Sesame Street has always been about diversity and acceptance of the people around you. Homosexual and heterosexual people are part of our world.

I know some of you out there might be saying "But I think it's wrong to be gay." Of course you are entitled to this opinion, but even if you think it's wrong to be homosexual that doesn't change the fact that we often have to co-exist with people who are different. Don't we want our children to still be respectful of others and able to deal with a variety of people? That isn't a skill you can suddenly teach at the age of 10 or 13 or whatever age we think they can handle such information. Kindness, I'm not even talking about acceptance here, has to be taught at a young age.

So, let's let Bert and Ernie be the goofy roommates they've always been and let's teach our children that not all families are the same.

Birchbox is here!

2011-08-09T07:42:00.000-07:00

You know how it kind of sucks to go to the mail box. You know what I mean....junk mail, junk mail, bills, bills, BILLS! Right? Well, I went to my mail box yesterday and found this...

My first Birchbox had arrived!

If you're wondering what the heck I'm talking about, Birchbox is a service that lets you get make-up samples each month for a monthly or annual fee. They have a couple of pricing structures to choose from. I pay $10 per month. With the monthly option, I can cancel any time I want. You can always pre-pay for a whole year and get a slight discount. If you pay for a year, you can't cancel but you can transfer the membership. My plan is to try it for a few months to see if it is worth it.

Look at that lovely packaging. I love boxes I can reuse.

Let's get to the good part...what was in this month's box?

1. Tatcha Blotting Papers. I received three handmade sheets. I'm really excited to try this. I've been a blotting paper fan since high school.

2. Herban Essentials Orange Towelettes. I'm a messy gal, so I can always use towelettes.

3. Kate Spade Twirl Perfume. I'm not much of a perfume person so a little sample like this will last me a while.

4. Pureology Strengthening Control Zero Dulling Hairspray. This is a nice sized sample. This will last me quite a while.

5. Nuxe Reve de Miel Ultra Comfortable Body Cream. .50 oz. will do me a while. Perfect for sticking in my purse.

6. Jouer Moisturizing Lip Gloss in Glisten.You can never have too many lip glosses.

So there you have it, folks. My very first Birchbox. Overall, I'm pretty happy with this month's goodies. There are lots of brands in here that I've never tried and a good mix of products. I also have to thank Kaye over at Save Those Cents for letting me know about Birchbox. Kaye knows how much I love my make-up.

With next month's Birchbox, we're going to do a little contest so stay tuned for that!

30 Day Song Challenge

2011-07-12T21:25:00.000-07:00

If you're on Facebook then you have most likely seen the 30 Day Song Challenge. This is where each day for---you guessed it---30 days you tell about a song. Easy enough. While I like reading these on Facebook, I don't like to post them on Facebook. So, I'm bringing it to The Study Guide and I won't drag it out over 30 days. Here we go!

day 01 - your favorite song: Regret by New Order

This is a tough one. I go back and forth between Regret and Age of Consent as favorites by New Order. Regret has a slight edge for me in the best song department. It's well written (which isn't always the case for New Order songs), sounds fresh and even the video is still gorgeous after 18 years.

day 02 - your least favorite song: Firework by Katy Perry

I'm sure there are far worse songs but this is my least favorite song right now. I only know about this song because I teach 8th graders and they love this woman. I don't get the Katy Perry love at all.

day 03 - a song that makes you happy: Friday, I'm in Love by The Cure

Who would have thought The Cure could make such a happy little song?

day 04 - a song that makes you sad: Vincent by Don McLean

This song gets me every time. "Vincent" is about Vincent Van Gogh and the lyrics to this song paint a clear picture of his struggles.

day 05 - a song that reminds you of someone: All the Small Things by Blink 182

This song reminds me of Brian. In fact, any song by this band reminds me of him. One night, about 12 years ago, Brian dragged me to a bad party at his work back when we were just friends and I accidently broke this CD. I loathe this band but I swear it was an accident. I was classy and sent him a new copy.

day 06 - a song that reminds you of somewhere: Mambo Italiano by Dean Martin

This song reminds me of an Italian restaurant in Chicago that I ate at when I was about 19. It was my first visit to Chicago and my friends and I wanted to have a "fancy" dinner on our last night. This song was playing at dinner. I only wish could remember the name of the restaurant.

day 07 - a song that reminds you of a certain event: American Girl by Trisha Yearwood

Every time I hear this song I think of the first time I got stopped for speeding. I was driving to the library and singing along with this song. Apparently I was so into Trisha that I didn't notice that my speed was a bit much for the suburbs.

day 08 - a song that you know all the words to: Take it on the Run by REO Speedwagon

I know the words to lots of songs. In fact, knowing lyrics might be my only skill but I can belt this song out like no other.

day 09 - a song that you can dance to: Smooth Criminal by Michael Jackson

I took a jazz dance class -once- and she taught us a routine to this song. If I think really hard, I might remember how to dance a little to it.

day 10 - a song that makes you fall asleep: Moonlight Drive by The Doors

I used to fall asleep almost every night listening to the Strange Days record. This is a relaxing song and still one of my all-time favorite Doors' song.

day 11 - a song from your favorite band: Send Away the Tigers by Manic Street Preachers

Powerful song that's meant to be heard in a stadium. If I lived in England, which I should, I could hear this in a stadium. I settled to hear it in a bar in Detroit with 200 people in the crowd and it was amazing.

day 12 - a song from a band you hate: I Hope, I Think, I Know by Oasis

I hate Oasis but I adore this song. I'm pretty sure I remember Bono saying to the press that Liam Gallagher had the voice of an angel but he was an asshole. That about sums up my feelings on him as well but I really like this tune.

day 13 - a song that is a guilty pleasure: See day 14.

day 14 - a song that no one would expect you to love: Sexyback by Justin Timberlake

Confession time. I love Justin Timberlake. I like his music. I like this movies. I like him. I find him charming and funny. I can't help it.

day 15 - a song that describes you: I have no idea. If you know of a song that describes me, please chime in.

day 16 - a song that you used to love but now hate: Jane Says by Jane's Addiction

I hit Jane's Addiction pretty hard in high school and early on in college. This was one of my favorite songs and now I don't care for it all that much. I probably don't hate it exactly but it has definitely worn thin on me. I blame Brian for my falling out with Jane's Addiction. He played them a lot when we started dating, resulting in me getting tired of them. I've just never warmed back up to them. Maybe I need to unearth Ritual de lo Habitual.

day 17 - a song that you hear often on the radio: Country Bone by Blake Shelton

I've been listening to a lot of country and bluegrass lately. Every time I listen to a country station I hear this song.

day 18 - a song that you wish you heard on the radio: I would take any song by the Manic Street Preachers

Even with XM, I still don't hear them on the radio.

day 19 - a song from your favorite album: Who's Gonna Ride Your Wild Horses by U2

There isn't a bad song on this album and it was U2's last strong effort. This song always stood out to me and how hot are Bono and Larry in the video?

day 20 - a song that you listen to when you’re angry: Yes by Manic Street Preachers

I listen to this song pretty much any time I'm angry or even just annoyed, which is often.

day 21 - a song that you listen to when you’re happy: Mint Car by The Cure

The Cure is so good when they're happy.

day 22 - a song that you listen to when you’re sad: West Coast by Coconut Records

Great for a sad or pensive mood.

day 23 - a song that you want to play at your wedding: I've already had my wedding so I will leave this one blank. Unless I start prepping for wedding #2.
day 24 - a song that you want to play at your funeral: Changes by David Bowie

It just seems appropriate. This song feels happy and solemn at the same time, which I think often sums up funerals. And I like David Bowie so if you end up being in charge of my funeral, play this.

day 25 - a song that makes you laugh: John Deere Green by Joe Diffie

Any song with heroes named Billy Bob and Charlene is worth at least a smile or two.

day 26 - a song that you can play on an instrument: Twinkle Twinkle Little Star

I refuse to tell you what instrument I can play this on. Since you know what I do for a living then you can probably guess.

day 27 - a song that you wish you could play: Just about any song would fit this category, as long as it isn't Twinkle Twinkle Little Star.

I have no musical skills.

day 28 - a song that makes you feel guilty: ?

I'm confused by this question. Is this another guilty pleasure song or a song that illicits guilt?

day 29 - a song from your childhood: Crazy Little Thing Called Love by Queen

My mother tells tales of me be-bopping to this song at the young age of 1 or 2. It was evident at a young age that I would like good music.

day 30 - your favorite song at this time last year: Hmmm...probably something by Weezer.

I got super-obsessed with them around this time last year. I'm getting over it though.

Can you believe they let me help hire someone?

2011-06-22T21:15:00.000-07:00

I hate job interviews. I sweat, my face turns red and I probably end up blurting out several stupid things to the interviewer. Recently my principal asked me to assist in the interview process of hiring new teachers for the next school year. For once I was happy to be on the other side of that conference table. Since I know that you probably hate interviews as much as I do, I thought I would share some insights that might help you during your next interview.

1. Who's the boss? When my colleagues and I went around the table to introduce ourselves, we gave our titles which consisted of the following: a principal, an assistant principal, a counselor and two teachers. You might think the principals were the people to impress since they would have the final say. Little did the candidates know, my principal told little ol' me that since I would be most impacted by the choice of candidate he would go with whom I preferred. When you're at a round table interview make eye contact with everyone, shake all hands and assume that any one of those people could have the final word.

2. Oh no. You just said something really stupid. Now your face is red, you're stuttering and the interviewer looks as if she might call security to have you escorted from the premises. You might as well walk out of that interview right now and write this one off, right? Wrong! All of my fellow interviewers were sympathetic to the nervous flubs because we've all been there. The key is to shake off whatever faux pas you think you made and move forward. In fact, the person I liked the best started out the weakest. He looked as if he was going to melt into a giant slime ball of sweat but not before putting us to sleep by his answers. He relaxed, moved forward with the questions and ended up impressing everyone.

3. All is not well just yet. You really can screw up and here's how:

-You know how all those job interview help sites tell you not to put down your previous employer when you're asked why you're leaving your current job? Take that advice then take it a step further. Don't insult anyone or any profession.

-Honesty isn't always the best policy. If your honest answer makes you sound like a jerk, think of something else to say

Happy job hunting! I hope some of these insights help you as you find your calling.

Netflix for Books

2011-05-09T19:39:00.000-07:00

Brian asked me if I saw Don's tweet about BookSwim and at the mention of "books" I was instantly intrigued. Don described it as Netflix for books. Well, I love books and I love Netflix so this has to be awesome, right? Well, maybe a little awesome.

BookSwim allows you to borrow books that are delivered right to your door. If you purchase one of BookSwim's standard packages, you do not have to pay shipping. You can get 3 books per month for $23.95, 5 books for $29.95, 7 for $35.95 and 11 for $59.95 a month. If you just want one book a month, you can pay $9.99 but you will have to cough up $3.99 for shipping. Considering that a new hardback novel can cost more than the lowest price plan, this is a great deal if you frequently buy new books. For me, however, this is too expensive.

Despite being an avid reader, I rarely buy hardbacks new. I am lucky enough to have a wonderful public library system that is able to get new books very quickly. Half-Price Books is another great source for new and old books. If you do not have a strong library or a good used bookstore around, BookSwim might be a good option for you.

Another plus for BookSwim is that they have textbooks. If you're a student like me, this could end up being a great deal. Unfortunately my current $100+ textbook isn't at BookSwim yet.

For now, BookSwim isn't a good value for me. I will definitely keep checking them out to see if they change their price plans. Do any of you use BookSwim? Tell us about your experience.

Happy Easter!

2011-04-24T07:08:00.001-07:00

It's National Poetry Month!

2011-04-21T13:58:00.000-07:00

Here it is, National Poetry Month, and I almost forgot about it. Fear not, I have a poem for you.

Today I give you one of my favorite poems, "Letter With No Address" by Poet Laureate, Donald Hall. This poem can be found in Without, a collection of poems Hall released after his wife, poet Jane Kenyon, died of leukemia. "Letter With No Address", like every other poem in Without, was written for Jane.

LETTER WITH NO ADDRESS
by Donald Hall

Your daffodils rose up
and collapsed in their yellow
bodies on the hillside
garden above the bricks
you laid out in sand, squatting
with pants pegged and face
masked like a beekeeper’s
against the black flies.
Buttercups circle the planks
of the old wellhead
this May while your silken
gardener’s body withers or moulds
in the Proctor graveyard.
I drive and talk to you crying
and come back to this house
to talk to your photographs.

At five A.M., when I walk outside,
mist lies thick on hayfields.
By eight the air is clear,
cool, sunny with the pale yellow
light of mid-May. Kearsarge
rises huge and distinct,
each birch and balsam visible.
To the west the waters
of Eagle Pond waver
and flash through popples just
leafing out.

Always the weather,
writing its book of the world,
returns you to me. Ordinary days were best,
when we worked over poems
in our separate rooms.
I remember watching you gaze
out the January window
into the garden of snow
and ice, your face rapt
as you imagined burgundy lilies.

Your presence in this house
is almost as enormous
and painful as your absence.

I stole this from another blog...

2011-04-16T20:16:00.000-07:00

And I enjoy making lists

10 THINGS YOU CURRENTLY WANT:

1. a really good book

2. something new to listen to

3. Seinfeld to be on Netflix

4. something sweet

5. graduation to get here

6. summer vacation

7. a winning lottery ticket

8. a farm

9. a pig

10. my current class to be over

9 MUSICIANS/BANDS YOU LOVE (IN NO ORDER):

1. New Order

2. U2

3. The Smiths

4. Joy Division

5. Weezer

6. The Doors

7. The Replacements/Paul Westerberg
8. David Bowie

9. Manic Street Preachers

8 THINGS YOU DO EVERYDAY:

1. brush my teeth

2. check email

3. wash my face

4. get kisses from my dogs

5. complain

6. read something

7. clean

8. work on something

7 THINGS YOU ENJOY:

1. books about music

2. singing in my car

3. a clean house

4. my pets

5. walking

6. driving

7. learning new things

6 THINGS THAT WILL ALWAYS WIN YOUR HEART:

1. humor

2. my dogs

3. a good song

4. intelligence

5. a good book

6. a tear jerker movie

5 FAVORITES: MOVIE, SONG, BOOK, FOOD, SEASON:

1. The Royal Tenenbaums

2. Age of Consent (New Order)

3. On the Road (Jack Kerouac)

4. Pizza

5. Autumn

4 SMELLS OR SCENTS YOU ENJOY:

1. rain

2. cake

3. fruit

4. the inside of a new car

3 PLACES YOU WANT TO GO:

1. England

2. Russia

3. Alaska

2 FAVORITE HOLIDAYS:

1. Halloween

2. Thanksgiving

1 PERSON YOU’D MARRY ON THE SPOT:

1. Already married him (...oh, and Spock from the new Star Trek movie)

What's with all the Barbie bashing?

2011-04-08T19:51:00.000-07:00

Growing up, I was never very interested in baby dolls. I remember playing with the little dolls that came in boxes with different outfits. I confess, I just liked those dolls for all the little clothes. Baby dolls just didn't do it for me. I didn't have fun carrying them around, pretending to feed them, and who wants to change a diaper for fun? I didn't understand the appeal of baby dolls but Barbie made a lot of sense to me.

I got my first Barbie when I was about 4 as a bribe. I really, really wanted one. It just so happened that I had a nasty habit of biting my nails. My mom offered to get me my first Barbie if I would quit biting my nails. Easy enough. I got my doll and, to this day, I'm not a nail-biter.

I had all kinds of Barbie dolls but never any Ken dolls. My Barbie's boyfriends were much better than Ken. They were more attractive, had better jobs, treated her better than Ken ever could, and were all imaginary, of course. (Side note: Did Ken even have a job??) My Barbie also had several different jobs, depending on what held my interest at the time. Sometimes she was a musician, other times she was a detective or a doctor. Again, all imaginary. That's what Barbie is all about, right? Imagination? So, what's with all the articles and art projects putting real measurements and standards on a toy? Yes, a life-sized Barbie would be pretty scary but just about any toy would be equally frightening in real proportions. Take a deep breath. Barbie is just a toy.

Why is Barbie a great toy for girls?

Growing up, I never dreamed of my wedding day or of the children I was going to have. Lots of my friends did, but neither of those events held my interest. I never even wanted the bridal Barbies. Barbie dolls have been made in the image of rock stars, astronauts, doctors, teachers, and many other careers. She traveled and had houses in different places. Barbie was black, Asian, Native American, and embraced a multitude of diversity that goes beyond the blonde-blue eyed doll. And if I wanted my Barbie to have a baby, I folded up one of her clothes and stuck it under her shirt. Voila! Barbie's a mom. Barbie could do and be anything from your imagination.

Eating Disorders and Self-Esteem

Some of you know the horror of eating disorders from personal experience. Waking up every day, constantly tortured by what you put (or don't) put in your mouth is a nightmare for millions of women. Even if we're not starving ourselves, women find other forms of torture in the name of beauty. Plucking brows, waxing various body parts, high heels, plastic surgery...the list goes on and on. Are we really blaming this on a doll?

But, I hear some of you saying, Barbie will make our daughters grow up to think that this is how they should look! Do we really believe that? I believe that girls and women are smarter than this. I resent the fears that a toy will cause us to develop anorexia or self-esteem issues. This fear sends the message that girls and women are not bright enough to understand the difference between a toy and reality. I never played with Barbie dolls under the guise that I would look like her when I grew up and I bet none of my Barbie-playing readers thought they would either. If anything, Barbie is a blank slate; a vehicle for imagination. Please, give our daughters some credit.

Bring it back! Discontinued foods that need to come back

2011-02-25T20:04:00.000-08:00

Close your eyes and get ready to salivate with me because here is a list of foods and drinks I miss. Do you remember any of these?

New York Seltzer Water

I was drinking bottled water before it was cool. I remember these from the 80s when I was a kid. The lemon-lime variety was my favorite. They came in little glass bottles and the label was fun to peel off. I think they are still around in some places and if they ever come back to my grocery stores I will be in heaven.

Wendy's Pitas

Oh, that Wendy is a tricky one. She lured me to the Student Union every day at lunch for a Greek Pita then took them away from me. Wendy's had a few assorted pitas and they were all delicious. The pita bread was always thick and warm, the lettuce fresh. I remember making a mess with these. Lettuce all over the place but it was worth it. Can I start a petition for Wendy's to bring these back?

Zantigo

This restaurant is still around in Minnesota, which does me no good. I remember going there with my mom and dad way back when. Taco Bell replaced them in my town and Mexican food just hasn't been the same since. Zantigo had a special taste that I just haven't been able to find any place else. If I'm ever in Minnesota, this is my first stop! I can't even go to their website; it hurts too much.

Cafeteria Cookies

Only my high school friends will know what I'm talking about. The lovely lunch ladies at my old high school (Go Bobcats!) liked the food quick and greasy and so did I. The cookies were big and soft. In fact, I don't think they were cooked all the way but who doesn't like cookie dough. When I substituted at my high school several years ago I made sure to buy one of these before I left for the day.

Nestle Crunch Bars-White Chocolate!

Are you guys noticing a theme? I seem to really miss junk food. I haven't had one of these since I was a kid and I'm not sure when they went away but they were so good. It was a Nestle Crunch bar in white chocolate form. Everything is better when it's white chocolate.

Your turn! What tasty food and drinks do you wish they'd bring back?

Great Make-Up Deals at CVS Today!

2011-01-30T14:51:00.000-08:00

CVS was full of 75% off make-up today! Usually the colors/shades no one really wants it what is on sale. Not today! My local CVS had an assortment of colors, shades, and brands 75% off. If you have some coupons you might be able to do even better. Take a look at what I got. Click the image to enlarge.

Makeup Review: L'Oreal The One Sweep Eye Shadow

2010-12-31T19:54:00.000-08:00

What: L'Oreal The One Sweep Eye Shadow
Shade: Playful for Brown Eyes
The claim: Unique applicator applies 3 shades in ONE SWEEP to define, color, and highlight eyes. Given how much people struggle with those three steps (me included) there is definitely a market for this product.

Does it work? Kinda, sorta.

The good: This particular shade I bought, intended to enhance brown eyes, has a light purple, a darker purple, and a shimmery mid-toned purple. All nice shades, especially for darker eyes. This eye shadow gives a subtle look. The darkest shade showed up nicely. The applicator curved nicely with my eyes.

The bad: The back of the palette required directions on use. This was helpful but I'm of the mind set that you shouldn't need directions to use eye shadow. The lightest and mid-tone shades are really nothing special on my lids. It is difficult to see any contrast in these colors. It just looks like a purple eye. Nothing too exciting. I am not sure how well this applicator would work for Asian eyes or smaller eyes.

The ugly: Over-blending could end up in a really messy look.

Would I use this again? Sure, if I just wanted some quick color on my eyes.

Have you tried this product? What's your verdict?

Disclaimer to keep the FTC people happy: I purchased this item with my own money. This item retails for $8.99.

Christmas 2010

2010-12-30T22:25:00.000-08:00

I'm always amazed at how fast Christmas comes around every year. Christmas 2010 has come and gone but Santa left me with some pretty excellent presents this year. Here's a short list of some of my favorite gifts this year:

1. Philosophy Gingerbread Girl

This body wash and lotion sincerely smell like gingerbread. Someone recently told me that their resolution for 2011 is to buy less things but of higher quality. This set makes me want to adopt that same resolution.

2. My very own picture book! Brian went to Lulu and made a picture book of our pets. The pictures are high quality and you can even add text. When I finally write that children's book, I can publish it myself at Lulu.

3. Garmin If you know me then you know I have the capability of getting lost in my own garage. I needed this badly. The interface is easy to use and you can choose the accent of the voice that gives the directions. I opted for the British voice. Surprise, surprise.

4. Manic Street Preachers book I love to read and I love the Manic Street Preachers so this is a perfect gift. Many of the pictures are new to me as are several of the accounts discussed in the book. I can spend hours trying to figure out Richey's mystery.

Your turn. What did you get for Christmas?

Ovens, candles, wire cutters... oh my!

2010-12-20T19:53:00.000-08:00

I have a conflict: I love make-up but I don't like clutter. Too bad for me that the two often go hand-in-hand. Many cosmetic brands put their products in cute containers that often take up too much space. What's a girl to do?

A few years ago I decided to use empty CD cases as a means to organize my makeup. I popped the eyeshadows out of their original containers and hot glued them into the CD cases. This worked out pretty well but some of the shadows caused problems with the case closing; not to mention that the cases didn't necessarily fit into my bathroom counters easily.

Now all kinds of companies make very cute magnetic makeup cases. However, the suggestions on depotting the eyeshadows is kind of frightening. Any time ovens, candles, and wire cutters are involved I have to think twice.

Where Have I Been?

2010-12-20T19:43:00.000-08:00

I haven't updated my little blog in a while. I am on vacation (well, almost...tomorrow is my last day!) so hopefully I will have more time to share with you all. My time has been filled up with grad school, work, baking, a cold that won't go away and Christmas!

I am excited to annouce that I have a new website for all of my baked goods here. The site just went up last night so there is more to come over there.

A rose by any other name

2010-10-26T19:37:00.000-07:00

Everyone who knows me well knows that I'm cheap. I love a good bargain and if I have a coupon that's all the better. I'm also never one to hesitate to buy off brand. However I am learning that there are a few products that are better in their name brand form. Here's the short list:

1. Face foundation. In my opinion, most cosmetics work about the same. Sure, a $30 eyeshadow is probably better than a $7 eyeshadow but maybe not better enough to justify the price. Foundation is the exception. Better brands go on my face smoother, smell better (I'm scent sensitive), and are not as likely to break my face out. I suggest Clinique foundation.

2. Cooking sprays. For as long as I have been living and cooking on my own I have been buying off brand cooking sprays. When I ran out of my Giant Eagle brand spray, I decided that since I am baking for hire I would try Pam cooking spray. I have to admit that I'm pretty blown away by the results. My cakes are popping right out of the pan and the pan looks so clean you can barely tell it was used. I will probably keep a can of the cheap spray around for day-to-day cooking but for baking it's Pam all the way.

3. Pop. I call it pop. You might call it soda but regardless what name it goes by, it needs to be the name brand. Off brand pop tastes flat and I think it has a weird spiciness.

4. Tennis shoes. Buying name brand shoes is probably smart in general but I know from lots of experience that you get what you pay for with tennis shoes. Good tennis shoes get broken in quickly and seldom will they give you blisters or rub your feet raw. Your feet hold your entire body up so treat them right and invest in a good pair of shoes. I also suggest you go to a shoe store that will help you find the right shoes. I like Front Runner. The sales person helped me pick out the right shoe by analyzing my shoe patterns and watching me run and walk. It was very helpful. My favorite running shoe is made by Asics.

What are some items you insist on buying name brand?

Product Review: Bath and Body Works Foam Soap

2010-10-19T20:44:00.000-07:00

I take my soap seriously and I expect a lot from it. I expect it to smell good, get my hands clean, and not dry them out. Bath and Body Works foam soap does all of this but I don't think I'm buying it anymore and here is why:

The pump itself sucks. It's stiff and it goes all over the place. This is a new pump design and the sales person at the store told me they changed it because the old design wasn't letting you use as much of the product. Well, I'm not using as much now that most of it ends up in the sink.

My Diet Survived the Weekend

2010-10-03T13:18:00.000-07:00

I have been on countless diets and I have always given up by the weekend. My latest diet, a low carb diet, survived the weekend and that's a huge step for me. Since last Monday I am down 10 pounds and I feel very successful. Here is why I think this time around has been easier for me:

1. I found a diet that works for me. There's a lot of mixed feelings on low carb diets. The diet that seems to receive the most accolades is the Weight Watchers diet. I have a friend who was extremely successful with Weight Watchers and I gave it a try last spring but it did not work for me. Weight Watchers is basically calorie counting in the form for points. As long as you don't go over your points you can allow yourself a sweet treat. This did not work for me because once I have one sweet treat, I want more and more. I have a major sweet tooth and a low carb diet is forcing me to break that nasty habit.

2. I'm ready for it. I finally got motivated enough to do something to lose weight. It takes a while. I've known for a while that I needed to lose weight but I was not quite motivated enough. Just like with any other addiction, and I do consider food to be an addiction for some of us, you have to be ready to break the habit. When you're ready, the whole process feels different that time around.

3. Head games. I approached my diet by psyching myself out. My dear friend is getting married at the end of October and I told myself that I would at least try this diet until her wedding. This provides me with a short term, doable goal.

4. Talk amongst yourselves. Talking about my diet is also helping me. By telling all of you out there that I'm trying to lose weight I feel accountable to do just that. The next time you see me or the next time I post a picture of myself I certainly do not want to have gained weight after telling everyone about my diet! But I promise not to turn this into diet central.

Day 2 on the Atkins Diet

2010-09-28T17:07:00.000-07:00

I'm down 3 pounds today from yesterday! I'm sure it's water weight but you have to start somewhere, right? I'm still feeling highly motivated. Hopefully I can stay motivated through the weekend!

Day 1 of a Diet

2010-09-27T07:37:00.000-07:00

I'm going to a wedding at the end of October and I want to lose some weight for it. I'm not in the wedding but I still want to look nice. I usually perform well under pressure so we'll see if dieting works the same way for me.

Looking through different diets, I decided that my best bet to drop a few quick pounds is to go on the Atkins Diet, phase 1. I've tried this diet in the past and have never made it longer than a few days. People seem to lose crazy amounts of weight on this diet so we'll see what happens. My hope is that I can stick it out since my goal right now is over a short span of time. I'm going to report my food intake and exercise here so you guys can scold me if I fall off the wagon.

Ready for Fall

2010-09-20T07:23:00.000-07:00

Now that the Summer of Jenny has successfully ended, it is time to look toward fall. Of course, the great part of summer is that I don't work but that doesn't mean that autumn can't be just as enjoyable. Here are a few things I'm looking forward to this fall:

1. Halloween. I love Halloween. I love dressing up, the scary movies, and giving candy out. I also throw a Halloween party every year and it's a lot of fun to plan every thing.

2. Pumpkin Patches. I'm ashamed to admit that I haven't visited a pumpkin patch in a few year. Shameful, I know. This year, I'm going to a pumpkin patch for sure and I can't wait.

3. Apple Cider. I bought my first half gallon of the season today and I can't wait to have some. Apple cider is only around this time of year so get it while it's still out!

4. Long sleeve t-shirts. These light weight shirts are the best and I can't wait to get them out again.

5. Warm foods. I love to cook but when it's hot the last thing I want to do is heat my house up. It's nice to be able to indulge in hot soups.

Gotta Get Away

2010-09-19T19:03:00.000-07:00

I've been itching to get out of Dodge. It's been a few years since I've taken a proper trip and I think it's wearing on me. I've even been dreaming about leaving town. Just last night I dreamed I was in Las Vegas. The night before that I was traveling with Nikki Sixx. Don't ask. I have no idea where these dreams come from. So what's keeping me in Dodge?

Bedbugs!

There seems to be an outbreak of bedbugs and this is keeping me out of hotels. Nice hotels, bad hotels and all in between are getting begbugs and I want no part of this.

Any suggestions on where I can go and not run the risk of bedbugs?

Wet N Wild iSparkle Eye Shadow Review

2010-09-12T12:41:00.000-07:00

The Product: Wet N Wild iSparkle in Star Clusters. These shades are a shimmery light gold, a bronze, a deep brown, and a pale blue. The palette slides out to reveal a handy mirror and it comes with two eye shadow brushes. My picture only shows one of the brushes because the minute I opened the package in the bathroom, I accidentally dropped one of the brushes in the trash can. What can I say? I'm a klutz.

You guys might not know this but I can be a make-up snob but I happened to have coupons for Wet N Wild and Giant Eagle was having a sale so why not give it a try?

The Review: I put these shadows on and was surprised to find that they are well pigmented. The blue shade was not as well pigmented but to be honest, I didn't know where to put this shade so it could be user error. It kind of blended in to the bronze and got overpowered. Overall these shades looked nice with my dark eyes.

I wore these eye shadows to the grocery store and sweated pretty much all day. I did not wear any primers to help the shadow last because I wanted to see how the Wet N Wild held up alone. By bed time, the shadows had faded some but they were still mostly intact.

You can see she shades on my eyes. The shimmer is there but it is not excessive. You could wear these colors to work and not look like you should be at a rave.

The Bottom Line: Wet N Wild is inexpensive and has been around for ages. I remembered buying this brand when I was a teenager and not being happy with the results. Wet N Wild has come a long way. I did not expect to find strong pigments and lasting eye shadows. I'm impressed. You should also check their website out. I looked at it for this review and it's a nice site.

Things I'm Enjoying

2010-09-11T17:27:00.000-07:00

I've been a lazy blogger so I thought I'd give you all a little update on the things I've been enjoying lately.

1. All things automatic. Thanks to some awesome couponing tips from this lady I acquired THREE of those nifty motion activated air fresheners by Glade and an automatic soap pump for practically nothing. The soap pump, made by Dial, is especially nice. I feel a little cleaner and it dispenses the right about of soap. Nothing goes to waste but you get enough soap to feel like it's getting the job done.

2. Netflix. Oh, boy. Brian has a far better entry up on our recent love affair with Netflix. Netflix is pretty awesome. I've watched classic movies, documentaries, Season 3 of Heroes (you all know how much I love Sylar), and lots of other things. We have gotten a few DVDs in the mail but we mostly stream through the XBox. The mailed DVDs are easy to receive and return and they arrive super fast. Netflix's website is easy to use and if you stream, the wait time between requesting the program and it starting is next to nothing. I am impressed.

3. Nutella. I used to laugh at people who eat Nutella. Who puts chocolate on bread aside from the Von Trapp kids? I decided to try some and wow. This stuff is seriously yummy. It tastes light and sweet but not too sweet. In fact, since I started eating Nutella I've noticed my sweet tooth has diminished some. I dig this stuff so much I entered a contest to win a year's supply. The last time I won any thing it was a year's supply of Juicy Fruit so I figured maybe that's how my luck works.

4. Farmer's markets. Today was the final day for my local farmer's market so I definitely paid it a visit. I bought some beautiful peppers and a head of lettuce that was fresh, locally grown, and inexpensive. Over the summer, I have tried to do more to support local commerce and farmer's markets are a great way to do this. I can't wait until they come back next year. In fact, I plan on renting space to sell my cupcakes next year!

5. Morrison Hotel. I've been a huge fan of The Doors for many years but Morrison Hotel has never been a favorite until recently. I put it in a few weekends ago and I couldn't figure out why I have not liked it. It's a fabulous record and I'm glad I warmed up to it---20 years later.

Privacy, Please: More Oversharing Stories

2010-08-10T08:28:00.000-07:00

I have previously expressed my feelings on posting childrens' pictures on Facebook and general oversharing online. To recap, I don't like it. There are too many freaks out there so I think you have to be careful with what information you give out online, especially where children are concerned since they have no control over what their parents post.

Today on Facebook I was reminded yet again how stupid people can be at times. This is the question Walgreens Pharmacy posed to their fans on Facebook:

"Who can't believe their little boy or girl is all grown up and heading to school this fall?"

Something like "I can't believe how fast they grow!" would suffice here. Instead, this question was answered by 122 people who all told us how old their kids are, what grade they will be going in to, and of course the posters' full names and pictures were there for all of the people on Walgreens' Facebook page to see. Maybe I'm paranoid or I've read one too many stories about someone being killed for their baby, but I'm lost on why people overshare so much info, especially about their kids.

Thoughts?

Weezer in Concert: A Non-Fan Look

2010-08-04T08:06:00.001-07:00

Last Saturday, Brian and I saw Weezer in concert. I have always liked a few of their songs and while they have never really annoyed me, I don't consider myself a big fan. I went to the show because Brian has been dragged to many concerts by me. In fact, he had to stand in an alley in the middle of Detroit at 1 AM so I could get my picture taken with one of my favorite bands. The least I could do is sweat with some nerds and watch Rivers Cuomo stand like a statue on stage, right? Well, much to my surprise I enjoyed myself and here's why:

1. The audience. At a concert, the behavior of the audience is very important. A bad crowd can ruin any show. Weezer's audience consisted of kids between the ages of 5 and 60, and all appeared to be sober. The seats were assigned so no one was pushing to get in front of me, no one spilled beer on my shoes, nor did anyone make out with their significant other while pressed up against me. The only time I had to get out of the way quickly was when the singer decided to visit the audience. The nerds wanted to touch their king so I moved.

2. No dilly-dallying. I have now seen several shows at the great Ohio State fair and they all run in a timely manner. I think it is because the grounds have to close at a certain time so whatever band is performing has to get on with it. I like it that I don't have to wait an hour (or more!) for the main act after the opening act has left the stage. I also like getting out at a reasonable time. I know. I'm old. But I would have appreciated these factors just as much at 22 as I do now at 32.

3. Showmanship. Weezer put on a great show. They looked like they were having fun. The singer spent a lot of time in the audience and not just in the first few rows. He went all the way to the back of the concert hall and posed for pictures, signed autographs, and sang along with fans. Beachballs were being tossed around, a little girl got to go on stage with the band for her 9th birthday, and even the sign language interpreter got some love. I did not expect much of a show. I envisioned Rivers standing at his microphone all night, barely moving. I was pleasantly surprised.

4. The music. Not only did Weezer put on a great show, they sounded great, too. I'm not familiar with their entire catalog and I am sure they did not make everyone happy but they seemed to select a good assortment of songs from their records. I knew every song, thanks to Brian and my time listening to them in high school. They even threw in a MGMT cover and made fun of Lady Gaga.

5. Rivers Cuomo. It's no secret that I like my men nerdy. If you know me, then you know I prefer Spock to Kirk and I married a guy who gets way too excited over Hot Wheels. Needless to say, I found myself swooning over the Weezer frontman a few times during the show. The thick glasses. The bad clothes. He has it all.

A Clean Sweep: An argument in two or more parts

2010-07-24T13:37:00.000-07:00

Disclaimer: I love my husband, Brian. I also do what I can do not to be a nag. That said, let's discuss the cleaning arrangement around here. I thought you'd all like this argument since many of you seem to enjoy listening to us argue every Thursday.

Shared Duties

Brian does some things around the house and I do other things. He really gets into vacuuming and doing the dishes. He also prefers to do his own laundry and he takes care of our Florida room because he has pretty much taken that room over for his Hot Wheels.

Since I'm a teacher and I get a summer vacation, I don't ask him to do as much around the house since I'm home and he works all day. During the school year, however, I expect him to pick up the slack. I think this is fair. There are some exceptions to this and he needs to clean more. Today was one of those days.

Guests

The house was not in too bad of a state but we had friends coming over for dinner so some things needed to be done in a short amount of time. I was cleaning the kitchen (which entailed washing and drying dishes, mopping and sweeping the floor, cleaning the table off, and a few other tasks) and he was cleaning the living room. Cleaning the living room meant vacuuming, putting remote controls away, and throwing away a pop can or two. A dog, not sure which one, also took the liberty of vomiting on the floor so Brian also cleaned that. Despite the throw up, I think I had more to do. I was slightly annoyed to find blankets on the chair and some other things that needed to either be thrown away or put some place else. His response?

"It doesn't bother me."

And it doesn't bother me either if we were just cleaning for ourselves. Today, though, we're cleaning because we're having company and I'm sure they don't want to move our stuff around. Am I being unreasonable to ask that a room be cleaned entirely? Is it that hard? Considering that I'm the only one who scrubs our TOILETS on a weekly basis, I think he can manage to stick some blankets in the closet. I also want to point out that he frequently does half-jobs when he cleans. Examples: He dries the dishes but doesn't dry small utensils like measuring cups. You're drying the dishes anyway, just dry everything! He will also vacuum but he skips the steps. Do those not have fur and dirt on them as well?

I've made my case

Your turn, Brian. Defend your lazy cleaning ways!

Cosmetic Review: Avon gave me the blues

2010-07-11T13:23:00.000-07:00

The Product: Avon Nailwear Pro in Vintage Blue
Price: $2.99

Avon makes great nail polish. They have a wide variety of colors and finishes, the color lasts, and is inexpensive. This nail polish, however, was a huge disappointment because of the color. Let's take a look at what Avon has advertised. The color (Vintage Blue) I purchased is circled in red.

It might be difficult to tell but Avon shows a silvery-blue shade that appears to have a metallic finish. This is what I got:

I got something that looks like blue sidewalk chalk. There is no metallic finish. In addition to not looking like the ad, this color goes on thick and streaky. As your resident Avon lady, let me say that Avon's products are excellent and the pictures are usually very accurate. This just isn't one of those times. Buy Avon nail polish but pass on this shade. Buy Avon's Nailwear Pro in Jade instead. When I wore that shade I was actually stopped by women in stores who were full of compliments. Take a look at Jade but keep in mind that the picture really doesn't do it justice.

What are some of your favorite nail polishes? Which ones should we avoid?

And the winner is...

2010-07-05T11:19:00.000-07:00

Erica won the Avon In Bloom perfume giveaway! Congrats!

Later on this week I will be giving away lipstick so be sure to check back.

7 Rules for the Concert Attendee

2010-07-01T10:24:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago I was excited to learn that the Scorpions and Cinderella were coming to my town. I like the Scorpions but I have always been a big Cinderella fan. A days ago, the Scorpions' singer, Klaus Meine got sick and had to cancel. The tickets were refunded but those cool guys in Cinderella played a free show. American Dog and The Ordinance opened for them, both native Ohioan bands. The Ordinance had some equipment issues but their singer kept going, finding microphones where he could and stayed energetic. American Dog had a stronger set with their country rock sound and many people in the audience seemed to be familiar with them.

Cinderella played a full set of their hits. Every song was spot on. Tom Keifer's vocal chord surgeries have paid off. They looked good, sounded good, but the night wasn't perfect. Why, you ask? The audience! It is time to learn the basics of concert attendance.

1. Smoke on the Water. I have no issue with cigarette smoke. Despite having allergies and asthma, it does not bother me that much. What does bother me is being in tight quarters and nearly taking a cigarette in my eye, arm, leg, or any other exposed body part. Be aware of your surroundings and the people you're sharing them with. My neighbors at the concert, for the record, were very courteous smokers. They attempted to blow their smoke up and not in my face. They also kept their cigs away from my skin. The lady in front of me, however, was nearly getting burned all night.

2. Know your audience. Crowd surfing is not status quo at a Cinderella concert and because of that fact I don't feel sorry for the guy who landed on his face when he got dropped on his face. Crowd surfing was okay at a Pearl Jam show---in 1994 but not here.

3. Hold your liquor. I, personally, have never understood the point of getting drunk at concerts. Tickets are normally expensive so why would you want to drink so much that you don't even remember the show? Just drink yourself into a stupor at home. It will be cheaper and you won't get your ass kicked by 1,000 people. But I digress. If you insist on drinking, don't get so drunk that you are infringing on other peoples' experience.

4. Be on time. Don't show up in the middle of the opening act and feel entitled to shove your way to the front. Not everyone can be in the front row so just deal with it. You wouldn't sit in someone's lap at a theatre just because they got better seats than you so why do this at a concert? Again, you're just going to end up getting your ass kicked.

5. Don't talk to strangers. I enjoyed talking to the lady last night about the time she saw Cinderella when she was 19 and the lady at the Tesla concert who who has seen them 100 times. I did not enjoy the guy who kept talking to me last night though. He was with his girlfriend and she was getting annoyed. I was also getting annoyed. If you're there with your girl or guy, don't make conversation with the opposite sex unless your partner is involved in that conversation. You're going to end up starting a fight.

6. Stay together. If you've gone to a concert with friends or family, stay together. Last night one woman was frantically trying to get to the front row to talk to her grandson. This did not go over so well. Don't expect special treatment just because your grandson, especially a near-adult grandson, is there and you are looking for him.

7. A final word. Let me just describe two girls from last night's concert: they were totally trashed, jumping up and down non-stop, spilling beer on their neighbors, nearly headbutting the people behind them while they were flailing around, sitting on the barricade resulting in being yelled at by the bouncers and nearly falling over, constantly talking to their neighbors, and asking for lighters. Several people had to yell at them. This was all before the opening acts even got to the stage. If you can avoid behaving this way, you'll be okay.

What are your rules for concerts? Share with us your crazy concert stories!

Contest Time: Reese Witherspoon's In Bloom Perfume!

2010-06-23T19:32:00.000-07:00

Allure Magazine recently posted readers' favorite products and Reese Witherspoon's In Bloom by Avon was voted as a favorite. It just so happens that I have a full sized bottle to give away!

If you want to win, post a comment telling me what is your current favorite fragrance. On Friday July 2, I will draw a name and you'll be the big winner.

By the way, this contest is not sponsored by Avon. Good luck!

Happy Father's Day

2010-06-22T09:03:00.000-07:00

Father's Day was last Sunday and I hope you all got to honor or remember your dad, your grandpa, or your mom who was also your dad. I spent a nice Sunday with my dad. I wanted to honor my dad here because he is a great guy. So, without delay, here is why my dad is so awesome:

1. He was never afraid to show his affection. Songs have been sung and books have been written by children whose dads never said "I love you." This is not to say that these dads didn't love their kids, they just never said it. Not my dad. He always told me he loves me and gave me hugs and kisses and he still does. When I leave their house after a visit now, I still get a kiss on the cheek and hug.

2. He cooks and cleans! While growing up, my dad cooked a big breakfast every Sunday and often cooked dinner. He also did the dishes and other things around the house. There was never a boundary set in our household of a "woman's job" and a "man's job". Everyone did whatever needed to be done. And sorry Mom, but Dad is still the better cook.

3. He was here when I needed him. Knowing my dad like I do, he would probably say that he worked too hard and wishes he could have spent more time with me when I was a kid. Despite the fact that he always worked hard for his family, my childhood memories are not of him being gone a lot. My memories are of the time he played Barbies with me and didn't mind when he had to be the scary Brooke Shields doll and the time he tried to fix one of my Barbie doll's legs by using a lighter and the freezer...and it worked! I remember playing Checkers with him and watching football on Sundays.

I also remember spending hours listening to music with my dad. Barry Manilow, Jimi Hendrix, The Beatles, Aerosmith...we listened to everything and I really loved this. If you know me, you know how much I love music and how important it is to me. My love of music is from my dad.

4. He was a patient teacher. This might be hard for some of you to believe, but I was not always such a skilled driver. Once upon a time, I failed my driving test---4 times. My dad very patiently kept working with me. We practiced every weekend and after school he would let me drive home while he sat in the passenger's seat. He even had me pump our gas because he told me that it was part of driving and something I needed to know how to do. I'm thankful that my dad was patient and wanted me to be independent and capable.

5. He's a proud dad and he doesn't care who knows. In high school, I visited my dad's job to shadow one of his co-workers and I soon learned that everyone in the building knew everything about me. They knew what I was interested in, they knew about my activities, they knew I was smart and I could go on and on here. I suspect if I visited him at work, now at 32, it would be no different. He has always been proud of who I am and no matter what I did, I always felt like he loved me for who I am. Well, Dad the feeling is mutual. I love you and I'm proud to be your daughter.

What more could a teacher ask for?

2010-06-04T20:56:00.000-07:00

Today is the last day of school and a parent sent me this e-mail:

I wanted to thank you for everything you done for my son all school year. He couldn’t have asked for a better teacher then you. You always made him feel good about himself. There are times that is hard to do. You are so very special to us.

The last day of school is so sad! :-(

Chaos at Conklin Dairy Farms

2010-06-01T08:21:00.000-07:00

I'm not much for public protesting (I would have made a bad hippy) and I'm definitely not the violent type (that would have made me a good hippy) but I was beyond outraged by the Conklin Dairy Farm abuse video that has been in the news lately. My methods of protesting usually involve letter writing and not buying the products. The letters I can do but not buying the products might be tricky.

Despite searching on the internet, I have not been able to figure out to where Conklin Dairy Farms distributes their products. If I am going to continue consuming animal products I would rather support farms who do not abuse their animals. As a consumer, I am finding it slightly disturbing how difficult it is to find out where our food is coming from.

If you read this, I urge you not to make threats or worse, carry out those threats. Instead, contact your local media and grocery stores and hit Conklin Dairy Farms where it will hurt the most: the wallet. And be nice to your animals. In the mean time, I'm giving serious thought to a vegan diet.

"...what you did not do for one of these least ones, you did not do for me." Matthew 25:45

Why I May Leave Facebook and Why I Might Not

2010-05-29T07:55:00.000-07:00

With May 31 being heralded at Quit Facebook Day, I've been thinking about whether or not I want to leave. I thought I would look at the things that annoy me about Facebook before I decide. I am guilty of committing many of these Facebook sins but they annoy me all the same. If you're one of my Facebook friends, I'm (probably) not talking about you.

1. People complain about privacy but do nothing to help themselves. We all whine about Facebook's privacy settings being complicated or that we do not even really have privacy but then we're the ones oversharing with 600 of our "closest" friends. If you don't know all of your "friends" VERY well you should probably reconsider posting your address and every picture you take of your kid.

2. Let's look at the oversharing again. No one wants to hear about your gas problems or read along while you fight with your boyfriend on Facebook. It isn't worthwhile. It isn't cute. It isn't funny. It's annoying.

3. Speaking of not caring... The posts on Facebook get mundane. I know that that is kind of the point. Tell us what you're doing and all of that but after awhile the pointless updates get annoying. Some people seem to post every thought they have and it's annoying.

4. If you're going to be mundane, at least stop after one post. Facebook users post about the same thing over and over and over again. I don't care if it's your job, your kids, or your garden; no one wants to read 10 posts about it. Change it up a little bit. I just know there is more to you than that one subject you post about non-stop.

5. Ego Alert! For the first 1-4 reasons I listed, Facebook has become ego central. Admit it, there has to be some egocentric behavior going on for us to think that anyone cares about the bottle of perfume we bought or that the dog just went for a walk. I admit that I'm guilty of this, too. I also realize that this is Facebook's point. However, that doesn't detract from the fact that we go overboard with these types of posts.

6. Coy Status Updates. We've all seen these posts. "Thanks for all the support." "I can't believe that happened!" or my favorite, "My life is falling apart!!!" And nothing more. The poster doesn't come right out and say what's on their mind so instead they type of a mysterious status update. I can only assume that the poster just wants attention/sympathy. If you don't want to tell us, don't post about it at all. Simple as that.

Since I bashed Facebook, it's only fair I tell what I like.

1. Old friends. It is interesting to connect with old friends and see what they're up to. Facebook can definitely be a great way to keep in touch with old and new friends.

2. I'm Nosy. This is no secret to anyone out there but yes, I am very nosy and Facebook can be like the ultimate bathroom cabinet to rummage through since everyone tells their whole life story.

3. Deals. In addition to being nosy, I'm cheap. There are deals to be had if you "like" companies that offer freebies. I've gotten free perfume and coupons through comapny's like Clinique and Bounce that have Facebook pages.

4. I really do care. Despite the fact that I don't want to read 40 status updates all about your new couch, I do care about how you're doing. I also enjoy looking at your pictures. It's all about moderation and nothing in excess.

Do you agree with me on any of these points? What annoys you about Facebook? What do you like about it?

Ronnie James Dio

2010-05-16T16:31:00.001-07:00

The first time I heard Dio I was about 8 and I was pretty sure it was the worst music I had ever heard. My dad had the Sacred Heart album and I didn't get the appeal. If you know me at all, you know I'm a music lover and most of that is my father's influence (thanks, Dad because Mom was no help here at all) but Dio did not appeal to me until much later.

The more I heard Ronnie James Dio sing over the years, the more I appreciated his dramatic vocal range and his fantasy-like songs that made me think about Lord of the Rings like characters and settings. I also appreciated his ability to quietly call out the establishment (a.k.a. The Man), be it organized religion or politicians. I also grew to love Black Sabbath under his vocal influence far better than Ozzy's reign.

Beyond music, Ronnie James Dio seemed like a down-to-earth guy who fully recognized that music was meant to be fun and entertaining. His interviews were always amusing and it was clear that he enjoyed what he did.

Thanks for music, Ronnie. Now go do yourselves a favor and check out RJD and Yngwie Malmsteen cover Aerosmith's "Dream On" here. You'll never need to hear Steven Tyler do this song again.

Irresponsible Pet Owners

2010-05-10T14:25:00.000-07:00

Just moments ago I was certain there was a serial killer in my yard. Roxi unleashed a ferocious bark that was only justified if an intruder was lurking around. Of course, I went downstairs to see what the fuss was and I saw an intruder in the form of a very fat white and orange tabby cat.

I see stray animals all the time and being an animal lover, I feel so sad for these lost little things. But this time I'm going to push that aside and scold pet owners. The intruder cat looked well-fed and had tags. I hate to assume but I am guessing that this cat is allowed to roam free and that makes me mad and now you're going to find out why.

1. I don't want your cat in my yard. If I had nice flowers, which I don't, I wouldn't want a cat using them as a litter box, a toy, or whatever else a cat might use them for.

2. I don't want my 80 pound dogs to eat your cat. I'm glad my dogs were inside when the visitor was in our yard. Cats are fast but if this cat had not been fast enough I would have felt very guilty.

3. I don't want my dogs getting their eyes scratched out. My dogs belong in my yard, your cat does not. If my dogs would have gotten injured I would have been beyond angry.

4. The world is filled with weirdos. I am sure you can find article after article in a newspaper or the internet about animals who get used for God-knows-what.

I know that animals can easily slip past an open door and I sympathize with all of the people out there who have missing pets. I would be devastated if any of my animals were lost but when people knowingly let their animals roam the streets that is just irresponsible and inflicting your pet on to other people. Keep your pets inside!

Quick Disappointments: Dylan's Candy Bar

2010-05-10T00:40:00.000-07:00

Dylan's Candy Bar is an upscale candy store created by Dylan Lauren, Ralph's daughter. I've yet to try Dylan's actual candy but I scored some of her lip balm on the cheap at T.J. Maxx recently.

The balms come in the should-be yummy flavors of Strawberry Licorice, Coconut Bon Bon, Birthday Cake Batter, and Chocolate Cupcake. Despite these tasty sounding balms, they really have no taste at all. Not only that, they don't stay on your lips long. If you find them cheap, go for it but I wouldn't spend too much on these.

Dylan Lauren should stick to candy. Or should she? Is her candy any good at least? Let me know if you've tried it.

Happy Mother's Day!

2010-05-09T16:50:00.000-07:00

It’s Mother’s Day! In honor of the day I wanted to spend some time telling you about my awesome mom.

My mom told me today that she was not a perfect parent to me and that she wished she would have done some things different. My response to this was well, who is perfect, parents or otherwise? Thinking about it, I think that some of these so-called “imperfections” were the key to my mom’s successful parenting.

My mom was the “cool mom”. One summer morning when I was 12 or 13, I woke up to find my friend Sara downstairs talking with my mom. Sara had not come to see me. She came to bring a coffee cake she had made for my mom. So what made my mom so cool that my friends would prefer her company? Did she let all the kids drink booze on her watch? Not a chance! My mom was cool because she was funny, she would talk and listen to my friends, and when you were at our house you knew she cared about you because she made you follow the rules.

My mom let me read anything I wanted. One of my 8th grade students desperately wants to read the Twilight series but her parents won’t let her. I think that this is a shame. I was allowed to read any thing I wanted when I was a kid and it made me a good reader, a book lover, and simply a more interesting person. I will never forget the time I was sitting in the hall outside my 5th grade classroom reading Testament by David Morrell (ever heard of Sly Stallone’s First Blood? Morrell wrote it.) when my principal came by and asked what I was reading. I was free to choose what I read and I still appreciate it so much. Reading took me to places I could never imagine and taught me about events and people, both real and imagined, that school would have bypassed. It isn’t the kids who are given the freedom to read what they want who push the limits, it’s usually the kids who are censored.

My mom let me listen to anything I wanted. I should start by saying that my mom should be grateful for this because my love of good music meant that she never had to endure a New Kids on the Block phase with me. You’re welcome, Mom. I was that kid you were jealous of who had Guns N’ Roses and Motley Crue albums in the 5th grade. These records did not come without a conversation though. Usually it involved my mom laying it out for me that a lot of these musicians make risqué music to make a buck because it’s controversial. This meant that I wasn’t blasting it through the house just for shock value and I had perspective to see through gimmicks. I truly believe that these conversations are why I don’t fall for everything I read, see, and hear.

My mom let me be. I wasn’t forced into activities or sports that I didn’t want to do. My mom was no soccer mom and I am so thankful for that. My mom also did not dictate who my friends were. Many of my friends were having sex, drinking, smoking, and taking drugs by middle school. I never did any of these things. I was a free thinker and my mom trusted me. That isn’t to say that I never got in trouble or that my mom didn’t keep tabs on me, but I was raised to believe that there was more to life than keeping up with my friends. Most of the time, my friends thought I was pretty neat for doing my own thing and sometimes I faced exclusion. My mom trusted and respected me enough to know that I would make the right choices and I usually did. By letting me be myself, I found out who I was at an early age and had a strong sense of self awareness.

Mom, thanks for being you and letting me be me. Happy Mother’s Day.

Thanks, Emily

2010-04-27T18:29:00.001-07:00

Despite being a huge poetry lover and an English teacher, I forgot that April is National Poetry Month. Allow me to make amends.

I got into poetry at a very young age when I found a poetry book in the trash. It had been a textbook once upon a time but it opened a new world to me. In poetry, your words could be shaped like an animal or a diamond, you didn't have to use capitalization or punctuation or proper grammar. If the poet really knew what he or she was doing they could use poetry to make you cry or laugh. A good poet can even make high school tolerable. Here are a few of my favorite poems. Enjoy.

The Bistro Styx by Rita Dove

Variations on the Word Sleep by Margaret Atwood

Lady Lazarus by Sylvia Plath

Sonnet 17 by Pablo Neruda

the Cambridge ladies who live in furnished souls by ee cummings

I heard a fly buzz when I died by Emily Dickinson

Facebook is still a choice, right?

2010-04-27T18:07:00.000-07:00

Did Facebook become required? What did I miss? Assuming we still have a choice on whether or not to use Facebook, I'm curious as to why a bunch of bored Senators feel the need to whine about it to the extent of possibly involving the Federal Trade Commission. After all, with immigration issues, unemployment, and oh yeah, a WAR I guess this is all we have to worry about and spend tax dollars on.

My understanding is that Facebook is making some changes that would expose some information such as interests, location, and friends to places that can advertise to you. Yes, this sucks. The last thing I need is another ad for some hipster nightclub that I'd never frequent to pop up. However, if it really bugs me that much I can stop using Facebook. And guess what, Senators? So can you! And if Facebook users are not tech savvy enough as, the article states, to figure out how to set their privacy options then maybe they should not be on Facebook to begin with.

The Summer of Jenny

2010-04-20T20:20:00.001-07:00

When George Costanza lost his job one summer he declared it "The Summer of Geroge". During that summer, George set out to do the things he wanted. While I have not lost my job, this will be the first summer in 16 years that I have not worked. Here are some things I am thinking about doing:

1. Take a cooking class. My neighborhood Michael's offers baking lessons and Parks and Rec offers an inexpensive cooking class to residents. I might learn some new techniques for baking. Even better, maybe I can learn to cook something that both Brian and I will eat!

2. Yoga/Pilates/Dance. Parks and Rec also offer these classes for much less than a studio. I could use a little fitness and relaxation in my life. If I opt for a dance class, I will need a partner. Any takers?

3. Fix up the house. For a 34 year old house, my place is in great shape. We've lived here for nearly 6 years so it is time for an update on the paint. Our couch is almost 10 years old so some new furniture is also in order. I want to experiment with some brave colors, too.

4. Teach an old dog new tricks. My pups can do lots of things. Roll over, crawl, sit, shake, play dead. But German Shepherds are smart and need their brains stimulated almost constantly or they get bored and do bad things. It's time for the dogs to learn some new things.

5. Write. I love to write but admittedly I don't write as often as I should. I have good ideas that need to move from my brain to the paper.

Colby the Dog

2010-01-27T20:30:00.000-08:00

In November, Colby went to the vet for a routine teeth cleaning. A few hours after dropping him off, I got a call from the vet saying that they found something strange with his bloodwork. His white blood cell count was around 3.5 and this was too low. And everything has sucked since. Part of me wishes I never would have taken him for that cleaning and the other part of me is happy that I did.

When I picked him up that day the vet sent him home with a prescription for an antibiotic, hoping that maybe it was just an infection. After he was finished with the antibiotics, his WBC count was still low and we began talking about doing a bone marrow aspiration. The process sounded painful so I opted to try more medicine. We also did an x-ray and it showed a seemingly healthy dog. Colby got another round of antibiotics and prednisone. The prednisone brought his WBC count back up and I was thrilled. He was scheduled for an allergy shot and a recheck on his blood about 3 weeks later. I was hopeful that the WBC count would still be high but I knew it was too good to be true.

His WBC count, as of yesterday, is 1.15 in the neutrophils and he is scheduled for the bone marrow aspiration Monday. The vet also told me that his neutrophils looked odd under a microscope. He seems doomed but he energetic, happy, loves to eat still Good signs, right?

I'm not sure what to think at this point. Is he reacting to the allergy shots? Does he have cancer? I have no idea but I hope we get some answers. In the mean time, I am going to try to make him as comfortable as I can. The whole thing has me totally depressed though. I'm anxious for some answers.

Got brass in pocket

2010-01-16T22:12:00.000-08:00

A few days ago I dug out an old coat just for a change of pace. I never wore this coat very often so it is still in good condition. Once I slid my hands into the pocket, I found a treasure trove of old goodies to share with my dear readers.

1. Bath and Body Works Cucumber Melon lotion. If you have shopped at Bath and Body Works over the years then you know just how old this label is.
2. Laerdal Face Shield. I remember getting this from a fire fighter who taught a CPR class I took while working at a child care center. This face shield is supposed to prevent you from getting cooties if you have to perform CPR. I remember the fire fighter told us a good story about a stripper who tried to sue him because he had to cut her clothes when giving her CPR after the OD'd. She didn't win.
3. $3.47 I love finding money in my pockets!
4. Subway Club Card and 5. Subway Club Card Stamps. I'll have to see if Subway still does this promo. I have a feeling they don't.
6. Cough drops and 7. Cough drop wrapper. I bet I would find cough drops in every coat pocket I own. I always have a cold.
8. Three receipts. These receipts are the best part of the entire find. All three receipts are dated from 2003 and two of them are from Big Bear. If you're from around these parts then you know it's been a while since Big Bear has been around. It was a blast from the past to say the least!
9. Cryptic piece of paper with a license plate written down. No clue whose plate number this is or why I felt compelled to jot it down.
10. Postage stamps. I always hate getting 1 and 3 cent stamps. I know I'll never use them but I feel guilty throwing the away. So what do I do? Let them fester in my coat pockets.

There you have it, folks: the contents of an old coat. So go dig out an old coat and come back and tell us what's in your pocket.

You Suck

2010-01-13T10:52:00.000-08:00

In 2 hours I see the surgeon for my first post-op follow up appointment. Rumor has it they are sucking the boogies out of my nose since I have not been allowed to blow them out myself for the last week. Having a tube stuck up my nostrils scares me to no end. In any event, things should feel better afterwards. I'm making Brian watch!

Cuts like a knife

2010-01-11T19:17:00.001-08:00

After years of sinus problems I final went under the knife and had surgery.

When I was a kid, I had horrible allergies that kept me sick most of the time. I remember the weekly allergy shots and frequently sitting out in gym class for fear of hacking up a lung. As I moved into my pre-teen and teen years, the allergies turned into sinus problems and I was sicker than ever.

Taking a job in a 100 year old school, in the basement was the last straw for my nose. I spent the entire school year plagued with sinus infections. After a visit to the ER in June with near-pneumonia, I finally made an appointment with an ENT. I had a CT scan done, at the height of my sinus infection and it showed a bent septum and sinuses that received no oxygen. Surgery for septoplasty, turbinate reduction, and sinuses was scheduled and after putting it off some, I had it done on January 7.

Brian and I arrived at the ENT hospital around 8 am and checked in. After waiting for a few minutes, I was taken to the pre-operating room and Brian was not able to come with me. I gave him a kiss then headed back with the nice nurse. I was weighed, given my lovely dressing gown and surgery cap, an IV was slapped in my hand, and I was good to go.

The surgeon's resident came by to answer my questions and had me sign a release form. He told me that he himself had a septoplasty done two weeks ago and that he was back at work the next day. I appreciate that he was trying to ease my nervousness but after having the surgery, I have to call BS on being at work the next day. I signed the form, promising not to sue and away Billy the Bad Ass resident went. A few more nurses visited me and the anetheseologist. Finally, the surgeon stopped by and let me know that surgery would be happening soon. My doctor was able to put me at ease by informing me that not only would there not be packing, but there would also be no splints. I was ready for surgery right then and there after hearing that.

The anetheseologist came back again with a new nurse. He pulled out two vials and said "here comes the good stuff!" I don't remember much after that. Apparently, the "good stuff" was the anethesia and the next thing I know, I'm waking up to a spinning room, about two hours later.

For whatever reason, the only time I run a fever is when I have surgery. When I woke up a nurse was rubbing a wet cloth over my face and chest. She gave me some ice chips and I prayed that I would not vomit. Not only does vomiting suck but it also keeps you in the hospital longer.

Eventually Brian got to come back and I was able to keep my Sprite down so they released me. I found out lots of things about my sinuses. One good thing was that the sinuses were not as bad as originally believed. However, I had two cysts that were removed. The major problems came from the septum. 90% of my airway was blocked by the septum, resulting in a lack of oxygen and a breeding ground for infections.

For the first few nights, sleeping was difficult. I needed a 45 degree angle and that just isn't comfortable. Not to mention the bloody nose. The doctor told me that by Saturday I will start feeling the pain so on Friday in anticipation, I took the prescribed pain killer. Lucky for me the pain never came. Instead of pain, I am mostly experiencing discomfort and extreme tiredness.

My nose is full of crusted over blood and shooting saline solution into my nose 30 times a day is helping with that. I'm dizzy and I have pressure on my forehead and sinuses. More or less, I feel like I have a bad sinus infection. But I'm not in pain, so I can handle one more "sinus infection". On Wednesday, I get my nose suctioned so we'll see how the pain is after that!

When I woke up in the hospital, I noticed right away that my breathing had already improved. My fear with this surgery was that I would go through all of this and experience no relief. I am already breathing better. I look forward to my progress over the next few months while I recover.

Big Brother Needs To Go Blind

2009-12-09T13:16:00.000-08:00

Lincoln University, a college in Pennsylvania, has recently come under fire for requiring obese students to take a fitness class in order to graduate. Lincoln University caved on this requirement but still I have to shake my head in wonder at what we have become.

You know the story on obesity. It kills people, causes cancer, heart disease and a whole variety of other problems. At what point though did colleges decide that it was their business to stick their paying students on a scale and measure their body fat? Of course, requiring this class would have given Lincoln University more money. I assume the class was not free of charge.

This class was destined to fail and Lincoln University just comes off like money grubbers. Students would not get anything out of this class to begin with because their approach to it is negative. No one wants to be told "you're fat and you have to spend money on this class that tells you you're fat or else you won't graduate." Most people who are obese already know that they are obese.

A better approach to obesity is to offer incentives. Why not offer rewards and prizes to students who enroll in an optional fitness program through the school's health center? Have a walking club or a Wii Sports/Fit night. Give away prizes to the people to lose the most or walk the farthest.

Whatever happens, let's keep Big Brother under wraps a little better than we are right now. It's just a matter of time before he gets to your flaw or vice.

R-E-S-P-E-C-T

2009-11-10T16:54:00.000-08:00

Today a Facebook friend ranted about not feeling appreciated. She prefaced it by saying that she was probably being a baby about it but the fact that she was unappreciated was really upsetting her. I think we have all felt this way from time to time. No one wants to whine and cry about it but I think we all deserve some appreciation.

Right now tell someone that you appreciate them. Tell your co-worker thanks for helping you with a project or tell your spouse that you appreciate the things they do to make your life better. Thank your parents for taking good care of you and thank your kids for finally cleaning their rooms.

Feeling unappreciated? What do you do that deserves some R-E-S-P-E-C-T?

It's Just Another Manic Friday

2009-10-03T18:44:00.001-07:00

About 10 years ago I discovered a band from Wales called Manic Street Preachers. Never heard of them? You're not alone. Despite the fact that they sell out soccer stadiums in 10 minutes, they are relegated to playing clubs in the United States. Being a huge fan, this was good luck for me since I got to be upclose and personal in Detroit on October 2.

The long-suffering Brian has been hearing about this band for a long time now. He's listened to my theories on what happened to Richey Edwards and nods his head kindly when I go on and on about seeing them for the first time in the pages of some Brit magazine and the glory days of the Manics, that being the 1990s of course. Brian's suffering would continue as we made a trek to Detroit.

Despite a crazy-long detour in Dunkirk, Ohio the trip to Detroit was without incident. We were warned that Detroit is a war zone and told to try to blend. I was rather surprised to find Detroit a ghost town. Not that I was hoping to find gangs, but the vacated city was a reminder of just how hard industrial cities have been hit in recent years.

We parked for $2.00 in a hospital parking garage that was just a block or so from The Majestic. Once in line, Brian of course had to go to the bathroom. Is this a man thing? It seems like they always have to go to the bathroom when it's least convenient, kind of like children. After stopping at the McDonald's across the street from the club, we got back in line. A Welsh guy struck up a conversation with us and was surprised by the small size of the line.

The Majestic is an old music hall as well as a historical building. The ceiling was falling apart but it was definitely a beautiful building at one time. We waited for about an hour before the opening band, Bear Hands, took the stage. A guy standing near us from Nashville warned us that Bear Hands were horrible. He was not exaggerating. They were easily the worst band I have ever heard and no charisma what-so-ever.

After the opening band vacated, Manic Street Preachers' crew began setting their stage. I have always enjoyed watching stages get set for concerts, especially for bands I really love. I like seeing the guitars and thinking about all the times I have seen that same instrument in pictures or on TV. My biggest thrills came from seeing James' white guitar, Richey's god-like genius sash, and Nicky's boas.

Once Manic Street Preachers came on stage it was an hour and a half of amazing music. Nicky danced around and James charmed the audience with his commentary and thick Welsh accent. They sounded flawless. James Dean Bradfield is an incredible guitarist and he did not hold back tonight. And then there was Nicky. Ah, what can I say about him? I've loved him for so long and it was nice to see him 8 feet from me.

When the show was over we were walking back to our car. We passed the alley behind the club and I saw their tour bus and the gravitational pull was so strong that before I knew it I was standing in an alley in Detroit at midnight...along with about 50 other people.

James Dean Bradfield came out first wielding his own marker to sign autographs. He talked to every fan. And by talk I mean he had long drawn out conversations with everyone. He was extremely nice and genuinely touched by the fact that people were there to meet him. NOTE: The photo seen here is not my best look!

Nicky Wire emerged and I could not have been happier. And I made him laugh even when I told him I didn't need his autograph because I already had one. I don't think I've ever looked happier in a picture.

Sean Moore came out after a while to make a rare appearance. He signed autographs and posed for pictures but I did not approach him. I know that he is painfully shy so I spared him from having to smile in one more picture.

It was a happy night and the "long-suffering" Brian is listening to the Manics upstairs as I type this. I think he's been fully converted.

Dreams 9/27/09

2009-09-28T06:15:00.001-07:00

Becky got me into recording my dreams a long time ago. I've slacked lately so here's another attempt:

Dream #1: I dreamed that I was sleeping and was awoken by a scratching sound on the vent. I woke up and it was a white mouse. I started yelling and screaming. I jumped out of bed and the mouse got into the bed. I called my mom and asked her how to get rid of a mouse and she said to put Comet in the vents. I looked around my house and couldn't find Comet.

Dream #2: In my next dream I went to my mailbox to get the mail and there was a home-made CD with a note attached to it. The note was from someone I didn't know and they told me that they were going to kill themselves. I called the police and when they got to my house the police officer looked at the note and said "well, they're dead!"

One Year of Health

2009-09-23T12:11:00.001-07:00

This time last year I was home after a morning of surgery. I had a tube, 20 staples, and my lower back was at least 6 inches concave. One year later, I still have a scar from the tube, my back is still slightly concave and scarred, I have no feeling in my left leg but I am awash with gratitude.

A year ago today I was relieved to be finished with surgery but it would be 2 weeks before I learned that my tumor was benign. It was a horrible 2 weeks of worry. When I learned that I was cancer-free, I wanted to dance right out of the doctor's office, despite the fact that I would have to wear my tube for 2 more months. I'm not sure if I ever properly thanked the people who made my life easier while I recovered so let me do so now.

I'm grateful to my parents who visited me and my friends called just a few hours after my surgery. I am not a parent but I can't imagine the fear my parents felt when they saw their child with half her back sucked in and carrying a tube after having surgery at a cancer hospital. Many of my friends visited the next day and I am deeply grateful that they did. They brought their children and helped me laugh at my deflated back.

I'm grateful to Melissa who came to many doctor's appointments with me and made sure no one screwed up. I'm grateful to the lady who carried my books at the library, to all the moms who pulled their kids away from me before they got too close to my tube, the cancer forums where I could post anxious questions anonymously, and to the pharmacist at Target who asked me about the tube instead of just staring at it and giving me a pitiful look. I'm grateful to Brian who cleaned out my back and changed my bandages, especially those first few days because I nearly passed out a few times. It was pretty gross.

Thanks everyone. I hope everyone reading this is as lucky as I am.

Hey Peter, what's happening?

2009-08-16T18:53:00.000-07:00

I felt like writing but I really have nothing too pressing to say. So, here's what I've been thinking about.

1. I don't like following celebrities on Twitter. When I first hopped on the Twitter bandwagon I followed Lance Armstrong. Well, I think he's a big jerk so I quit following him and I got tired of hearing about him biking through Hawaii and Paris. Poor baby. The only celebrities I follow now are the down-to-earth gents from My Chemical Romance. However, it's killing my image of rock stars. They tweet about changing diapers and their cars getting towed. Same stuff I tweet about, except for the diapers part. I need to find some 80s hair bands to follow.

2. Dream Update. Last night I dreamed that I was an undercover officer (think 21 Jump Street without Johnny Depp) and I was pretending to be a high school student but I got too caught up in getting my assignments turned in. Imagine that.

3. Book Shelf. You all know I love my vampire books. I've even read that horrid Twilight series. I'm half way through Definitely Dead by Charlaine Harris, part of the Sookie Stackhouse/Southern Vampire series and the inspiration for HBO's hit series True Blood. Now I am moving on to true crime books, which I have enjoyed reading for many years, since reading Cruel Doubt. I'm going to see if the library has While They Slept by Kathryn Harrison about the Gilley murders. Am I morbid?

4. Music Box. I've been listening to Procol Harum a lot lately and if I could have written one song it would have been Whiter Shade of Pale, even though I'm pretty sure it's just about drugs.

5. Barney! Bernard Sumner's record with his new band, Bad Lieutenant is coming out in September and I can't wait.

6. Luck of the Irish. I've been thinking about how lucky I was that my parents pretty much let me read and listen to what I wanted when I was a kid. Had they not, I'm pretty sure I would just be overly excited about the New Kids on the Block reunion tour and strictly read Cosmo. Not that there's anything wrong with that...

Get a haircut!

2009-08-08T12:13:00.000-07:00

My hair is really long and I've had enough! So, it's time for something new. I am going to take in this picture of Nicole Richie but ask for it to be just a little longer. Give me your opinions please! Would this style look good? Should I try something else? Should I leave my hair alone? I want to know!

Hit me with technology! Part 1

2009-08-05T19:03:00.000-07:00

Today was my first day of training at the new school where I will be teaching this fall. But it isn't just any school. This school is online.

We discussed benefits and delved into the technology. I received a huge phone and a laptop. Did I mention that I'll be working from home? Yes, I'm a lucky duck for sure.

I will be teaching 8th grade social studies and language arts to students with special needs. My students will be fully included and I will be there to modifiy assignments and reiterate the content. Finally I will get to teach the way I should.

Some of the technology is a little intimidating. We're working through modules that are nothing more than power points really. I am hoping that once I get to actually use the databases it will click for me. We'll see.

She don't eat the meat but she sure likes the bone

2009-07-25T23:25:00.000-07:00

When I was 13 I quit eating meat. All of it. This decision came after watching one of those 48 Hours specials about the meat industry. If the abuse wasn't enough to appaul you, the farm conditions certainly would. Something about eating something that festered in its own feces kind of grossed me out. I was pleased with my decision and was never one of those preachy vegetarians. You know the kind I'm talking about.

Around 18 or 19 years of age I started eating turkey and chicken again. I would go back and forth with poultry (I've never been one for fish) but I was unwavering on my decision to nix the red meat.

Last week something weird happened. I began to crave red meat. This was not the first time that this has happened but this was the first time that the craving was so intense. I actually dreamed about eating a hamburger. After doing some research on what red meats to start with again and how my body would react, I took the plunge and ate a hamburger.

Go ahead and laugh but my first hamburger in 18 years was a White Castle. They are plain and I recalled liking them at one point. I did not lose the contents of my stomach at first bite but I was surprised at how flavorless it was. In fact the hamburger items I have had this past week have all been pretty bland. But my craving is mostly cured.

Bottom line, if I want it I'm going to have it and the next time I see my doctor I am going to get tested for anemia. I can think of no other explanation for my sudden meat cravings. I think that the body has a way of letting you know if it needs something. For once, I listened to my body.

(Bonus points if you can name the song this entry title came from WITHOUT googling it!! Double points if you know where the picture came from!)

Disaster Zone or Serene Classroom?

2009-07-21T20:44:00.000-07:00

This school year is destined to be different from previous school years since I will be teaching students online. No new school clothes or buying supplies that my students can't afford to buy themselves. I will certainly save money but let's hope I don't get lazy.

Recently I was at Old Navy with my friends and Sarah pointed out some comfy lounge pants and I made some jokes about those being my new school clothes. Sounds great, right? But is it? Am I going to gain 50 pounds, wear stained shirts and never wash my face again? I need to be conscious of these things and not totally turn into a disaster.

So, people...if you start to see me pile the pounds on or notice that I've been in the same clothes for too long, tell me. I mean it. If the junk is overflowing in my trunk I need you all to call me out.

I Hate When I Lose Things!

2009-07-13T07:28:00.000-07:00

I really identify with this poem today. Enjoy...

One Art
By Elizabeth Bishop

The art of losing isn't hard to master; so many things seem filled with the intent to be lost that their loss is no disaster.

Lose something every day. Accept the fluster of lost door keys, the hour badly spent. The art of losing isn't hard to master.

Then practice losing farther, losing faster: places, and names, and where it was you meant to travel. None of these will bring disaster.

I lost my mother's watch. And look! my last, or next-to-last, of three loved houses went. The art of losing isn't hard to master.

I lost two cities, lovely ones. And, vaster, some realms I owned, two rivers, a continent. I miss them, but it wasn't a disaster.

---Even losing you (the joking voice, a gesture I love) I shan't have lied. It's evident the art of losing's not too hard to master though it may look like (Write it!) like disaster.

A Meme...just because....

2009-07-12T14:29:00.000-07:00

1. What kind of SOAP is in your bathtub right now? No soap. Soap does bad things to my skin.
2. Do you have any watermelon in your refrigerator? No.
3. What would you change about your living room? I'd like for the cable drop to be in more than one places so we could rearrange out furniture.
4. Are the dishes in your dishwasher clean or dirty? Dishwasher? What's this dishwasher business?
5. What is in your fridge? More condiments than I will ever need, water, Brian's pop, my tea, cheeses, lunchmeat...
6. White or wheat bread? Either
7. What is on top of your refrigerator?Breadbox, cat food, small wine rack.
8. What color or design is on your shower curtain? Green, yellow, white and blue stripes.
9. How many plants are in your home? 0
10. Is your bed made right now? I don't make the bed.
11. Comet or Soft Scrub? Comet
12. Is your closet organized?I try to.
13. Can you describe your flashlight? Silver and big.
14. Do you drink out of glass or plastic most of the time at home? Glass.
15. Do you have iced tea made in a pitcher right now? No
16. If you have a garage, is it cluttered? I have one and it isn't too bad right now, thanks to Brian.
17. Curtains or blinds? Both. Blinds and curtains on all windows.
18. How many pillows do you sleep with? 1.
19. Do you sleep with any lights on at night? No, I have to have a really dark room.
20. How often do you vacuumWith 2 dogs, frequently.
21. Standard toothbrush or electric? Standard.
22. What color is your toothbrush? White and blue.
23. Do you have a welcome mat on your front porch? No but I have a Halloween one that I put out in October.
24. What is in your oven right now? A chocolate cake!
25. Is there anything under your bed? Clothes containers, shoes, book, dust bunnies, probably a cat.
26. Chore you hate doing the most? Cleaning the toilets.
27. What retro items are in your home? A bathroom cabinet, some purses, an end table...
28. Do you have a separate room that you use as an office? Yes, and now I'm about to have 2.
29. How many mirrors are in your home? 4
30. Do you have any hidden emergency money around your home? I found $3 in an old purse last week. Does that count?
31. What color are your walls? Our walls are different colors. I like color.
32. What are you listening too right now? Brian is playing Weezer so that is what I have to listen to as well.
33. What does your home smell like right now? Cake and blueberries.
34. Favorite candle scent? I like fruity scents.
35. What kind of pickles (if any) are in your refrigerator right now? Kosher.
36. What color is your favorite Bible? No Bible.
37. Ever been on your roof? Nooo
38. Do you own a stereo? Yes
39. How many TVs do you have? 2 - one in the living room and one in the Florida room.
40. How many house phones? 3
41. Do you have a housekeeper? I wish!
42. What style do you decorate in? I'm not even sure anymore.
43. Do you like solid colors in furniture or prints? I prefer solid.
44. Is there a smoke detector in your home? Yes, I really need them too!
45. In case of fire, what are the items in your house which you’d grab if you only could make one quick trip? Besides obviously Brian and the pets, I can't think of anything. I don't have anything that I couldn't replace if I had to.

What's going on in your world?

2009-06-21T14:01:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since I posted so here is what's been happening in my world lately:

1. School's out! School is out for summer and I'm working at a preschool part-time. I have little responsibility as far as paper work is concerned and I love that. The parents are challenging but in a different way than my school parents are challenging. For example, a mom of one of the preschoolers calls several times a day to make sure that her son is okay. He is always fine. He's a happy kid, well-behaved and has fun at preschool. Mom is a school teacher too so she's off this summer. If you are that worried about him, don't stick him in day care all day when you DON'T need it.

2. Clear Mascara I was blessed with dark eyelashes that are pretty long but I love the fact that mascara can accentuate what you've been given. However, mascara almost always ends up under my eyes. Not a good look. And this is why clear mascara rocks! There is no messy residue under your eyes but you get the benefit of darkened and separated lashes with a slight extension. Go try it.

3. Knot me Brian and I visited Temptations in Dublin and learned to knit over the weekend. Lindsey and Julie were the patient teachers. I still need lots of practice and guidance but I'm getting the hang of it. Homemade Christmas presents for everyone!

4. Another One Bites the Dust Last Tuesday, was my birthday. Another year of my 30s is gone. I'm 31 now so I guess I need to get more mature.

5. Etsy Invasion By pure accident, I learned that Etsy allows people to sell their baked goods. I may be invading Etsy sometime soon. I love to bake and I'm actually good at it so I might give it a try.

Cat Scratch Fever

2009-05-15T20:39:00.000-07:00

I headed out bright and early this morning and was greeted by a mess of tools on the garage floor. Weird. I assumed they just fell. But it got better. As I was getting in my car I found a small pile of poo next to my tire. Luckily it was not rodent-small. It was definitely of the feline variety.

I did what anyone would do. I called my husband and asked him to get rid of whatever it is. During his lunch break, he came home (he always comes home for lunch so I didn't make him give up his lunch or anything! I'm not that big of a bitch.) and shook some boxes in the garage. Out popped a cat and off he went. Problem solved, right? Wrong.

After doing some much needed shopping, I came home around 3. As I was letting Colby outside I saw a little kitty face pressed against the patio door, crying to come in. I'm a sucker for animals and they all know it. Of course, I went to my yard and gave him some water and food. He followed me into the garage, back outside, and even into my shed while I found the animal carrier.

After very little coaxing, he went into the crate and I took him to the humane society. He was skinny and hungry so I'm glad that tonight he's eating and drinking and safe.

Take My License and All that Jive

2009-05-11T19:17:00.000-07:00

I was rolling along Sullivant Ave. (St.?) today, heading back to work from lunch. I was already late as it was and knew I was about to be even later when a boy in blue stepped out into the middle of the street, stopped traffic and pointed for me to pull over.

I knew I was speeding. I am always speeding. I have no excuses but I'm still going to bitch. Here are my grivences:

1. I got pulled over in front of a known whore house. The sign of this "hair salon" contains the words ultimate, fantasy and tanning. Enough said. So I should think that the police have far more important things to do.
2. The cost of the fine was not on the ticket. Okay, I was going 10 mph over the speed limit. I will take the penalty but shouldn't I at least know how much to shell out? Fair is fair. Instead there is a number on the back of the ticket for me to call. When I called they told me that it would take 72 hours for the case to be updated. Ridiculous!
3. Well, it just sucks to get a ticket.

Get into the groove

2009-05-10T16:47:00.000-07:00

I often visit The Pink Shoe Cookbook to find some fantastic recipes and recently I paid a visit to the sister site, The Pink Shoe Diaries. The author of both sites posted an entry about blogging about the things you are into. So, here's a list of what I am into. Right. Now.

*Neil Diamond: I've listened to him for many years and even got to see him live in 1998. A few weeks ago Brian asked if I had his greatest hits and I do. On cassette. Lucky me, I scored the same copy, on CD, at a yard sale yesterday for $1.
*Etsy: I have never bought anything from Etsy but give me time. For now, I just love to see the awesome things talented people make.
*Color: I went shopping for clothes yesterday and I did not buy even one thing in black.
*Cooking: I got a little sick from food I had at a restaurant so now I am all about cooking. I love to cook anyway but lately I've been lazy with it. That's about to change this week!
*Running: I run as fast as my three-legged turtle but it is something new that I'm enjoying.

Daily Observations

2009-05-06T18:57:00.000-07:00

*I hate music in the morning. I love music of all kinds but when I'm driving to work I prefer to listen to DJs talk. I can't make any more sense of this than you can.
*I love Wednesday nights. It's really the only night I watch TV (Mythbusters and Pitchmen) and I so look foreward to it. By this point the week is half over and I can take anything!
*I am obsessed with books. Since I was 8 I have always had to have a book going. As soon as I finish one book I find myself tearing the house apart for my next fix. It's kind of sad. Right now I'm reading A Secret Word by Jennifer Paddock. Not sure if I like it but I'll keep reading.
*I'm over myself. I'm done worrying about my weight. I think for the first time in my life I'm finally comfortable in my own skin. Thanks, Harper Lee.

What does the late bird catch?

2009-05-06T18:40:00.000-07:00

When I was a single co-ed, I could function on 3 hours of sleep and be fine. One quarter I had a 7:30 am class (which meant waking up by 6 at the latest) and went to bed at 3 or 4 am every night. I could wake up, go to class all day then go to work. What happened to me?

I know. I got old(er). Now I am asleep by midnight and I am struggling to get up in the morning. I've tried different tactics over the years. Moving the clock further from the bed, turning the clock up really loud. I can't get up early enough. If someone has a way to motivate me, please tell me how to get up earlier.

Beware: Amateur Ghost Hunters on the Loose!

2009-04-26T17:40:00.000-07:00

I have always been interested in the supernatural. I can't explain any of it and I am not entirely sure I have experienced anything especially paranormal but I still find it all fascinating. Last year my friend Aaron, also a supernatural lover, got involved with The Waverly Hills Sanatorium and made their fabulous website. Thanks to this connection he took me and a few other friends along for a lock in at the infamously haunted former TB hospital. A creepy place if I have ever seen one. Yesterday, Aaron, Brian, Anne, and I went to the Mansfield Reformatory, which is now known for lodging spirits.

Mansfield, Ohio is about an hour and a half away from me and an easy drive. The old Reformatory is hard to miss. The stone prison looks more like a castle and as the tour guide stated, it was built to look intimidating. Mission accomplished.

We began the tour with a chat outside covering the basic rules: don't steal anything and don't try to scare people and act like a fool or you will be kicked out. Once inside our tour guide told his own tales of seeing and hearing unusual things and shared the history of the former prison. I was most interested in the mirrored mansions that once hosted the warden and important officials who visited the area. Even though the mansions' paint was peeling and the floors were crumbling, it was still evident that it was once a gorgeous house. One former warden's wife, Helen, died in the mansion and supposedly still wanders the building.

After the guided tour, we were all set free to roam the building until 6 AM. We spent time sitting in dark rooms and listening to sounds. Walking though the cell blocks, I was amazed how small the cells are. My only impression of prison is what I have seen on TV and the reality was striking. Many of the cells still had old reading materials. The huge library still had a few legal journals and the librarian's desk was still intact.

Brian and I left around 1 AM and Aaron and Anne stayed until 3 AM. Of course Brian and I missed the good stuff. Aaron called me this morning and let me know that they heard unusual sounds and some possible EVPs after I had left. That's how it goes.

While I did not see or hear anything out of the ordinary, this was a fun and interesting trip. There is something here for everyone. If you are like me and love history, you will enjoy the stories of the prison and the prisoners while looking at the old fixures. If you are into the supernatural you are surely to find something creepy and if you are a movie buff you'll love seeing the props left behind from Airforce One and Shawshank Redemption. Since I live so close, I will definitely return sometime in the future, despite the fact that nothing scared me. There's always next time.

Check out Brian's review of the trip at The Morning Toast.

What makes you feel better?

2009-04-07T21:28:00.000-07:00

What things do you do to make yourself feel better when you're down? When my life feels like a wreck I love to watch Sex and the City reruns. I have no idea why exactly. I didn't care for this show when it was on but there is something so relaxing about Carrie's voice overs and the backdrop of NYC. I have nothing in common with this show. I never rocked an awesome apartment or dated Russians. Regardless, nothing relaxes me more than the Sex and the City clan.

Sick!

2009-04-07T09:07:00.000-07:00

It seems like since I had surgery I have been sick. While I was on leave with my tune I was healthy, other than the fact I had a tube! Once the tube came out in late November and I headed back to work, I got sick and stayed sick. What can I do?

I've tried vitamins, I wash my hands and use hand sanitzer, I even added chicken and turkey back into my diet for the extra protein.

I'm currently home sick with a fever and a sinus infection and a few other choice symptoms that make it difficult to leave the house. I'm tired of being sick!

Bath and Body Works My Nerves

2009-03-21T14:28:00.000-07:00

I went to Bath & Body Works this afternoon armed with a coupon good for a free item when I spend $10 or more. Since I was fresh out of Wallflowers, I went in knowing exactly what I wanted.

The moment I walked in I was greeted by a very friendly sales associate who asked me if I was looking for anything in particular. I told her what I was there for and she directed me to the right place. About 30 seconds later, as I was looking for my Wallflower scent of choice another sales gal asked me if I was looking for anything in particular. I told her I found it, thanks. I had to do this routine the entire 45 minutes I was in the store. I was offered help SIX TIMES by the same 2 sales associates.

Everyone who helped me were all very friendly and nice. I know they are just doing their jobs but I think that offering someone assistance once or twice is plenty! At one point, a sales rep actually interrupted me from something I was looking to buy to show me another item, which I had no intention of buying. I ended up not buying either item and I just left as soon as I could get away from the over zealous sales people.

My quest to get into shape

2009-03-15T19:42:00.000-07:00

Last September I made a pact with myself: if it all turned out well with my surgery, I would do more to stay in shape. My tumor had nothing to do with being in or out of shape but it made me aware of the fact that staying in good shape will prevent --or at least reduce ---hospital visits that can be avoided by being healthy.

In November my hemovac drain was removed and since then I have been left with a loss of feeling in parts of my thigh. Now that some of that feeling is returning, it is time to make good on the promise I made to myself.

I saw at 10tv.com that Heather’s Team is being formed in honor of Heather Pick , who lost her battle with breast cancer in 2008, at this year’s Race for the Cure. Heather was Brian’s co-worker and friend. I decided that this would be a nice way to contribute to a good cause, honor a special person, and get myself into shape. Given that this 5K race is in May, it is time to start working.

My first step was to buy running shoes. I went to Front Runner and a sale’s person helped me tremendously. He looked at the tread of my old tennis shoes and watched me walk to figure out the best shoe for me. Not only have I been wearing the wrong size but I wasn’t even wearing the proper arch support.

The sales person brought a selection of four shoes. I walked and ran in the parking lot, no doubt looking like a nut with two different shoes on my feet! I decided on the Asics Fortitude. Just running in the parking lot, I could tell a difference. I had more stamina and less pain. Best of all, the discomfort I’ve been experiencing at my surgical site when I run was greatly reduced.

This week I will begin my running schedule. I’m excited to wear my new shoes! I hope some of you reading this will join me at Race for the Cure.

School Dream

2009-03-06T12:49:00.001-08:00

On my myspace page I often post the dreams I have, especially if they involve people I know in real life. Here is a dream I had on 3/4 that involved a few friends. Look for my crazy dream blogs here now and then.

Begin dream: I was in a high school algebra class. My principal (my boss) was teaching it. A bunch of people from high school were in this class but I specifically remember Aaron and Matt being there. Everyone in the class were adults. We were all taking notes. I was panicking because I could not remember some of this math and I did not want my principal to know. Then Aaron's older brother walked past the window and pointed and laughed at us.

Livin' Like Larry

2009-02-23T19:47:00.000-08:00

Over the weekend I happened to catch an episode of Spongebob Squarepants called “A Life in a Day.” In this show, Spongebob and Patrick decide to try to live like Larry the Lobster. They decide that living like Larry means living in the moment and ignoring all reason. Spongebob and Patrick end up pulling a bunch of crazy stunts and getting hurt. Larry realizes that Spongebob and Patrick are hurting themselves to be like him so he better explains the concept of "livin' like Larry" as living life to the fullest and not maiming yourselves.

Oddly enough, this episode made me think about how I live. I am not interested in maiming myself but I think I could live like Larry more often. I tend to over think and worry about everything. I don't think I'm ready to totally throw caution to the wind but I think that each day I can do something small to live in the moment. Today livin' like Larry meant taking my class outside for a quick afternoon recess and playing a game of chase with them. I am not sure what I will do tomorrow to live like Larry but I will make sure I do something.

A Lesson Never Learned

2009-02-15T17:50:00.000-08:00

I have only been a teacher for a little over a year now and while I feel pretty successful there are things I still struggle with. My classroom has experienced a total schedule overhaul and now I feel like my time management strategies have been lost. This is one area where my teacher's prep program did not prepare me.

While I was in school working on my teaching degree, we had several placements in classrooms throughout the city every semester. Our professors always encouraged us to jump in and be helpful right away. Good advice. As a future teacher I was anxious to get to know the students and to find out what it was really like to be the teacher. However, now that I am flying solo in my own classroom I wish I could have seen how a teacher dealt with the students when there wasn't an extra set of hands. I think more teaching programs need to allow student teachers to spend at least a week just watching. Simply watching how a teacher manages behavior issues without any help or how she gets three kids off to gym and two kids off to art at the same time would have been helpful to see.

Seinfeld Moment 290,456: Can you spare a square?

2009-02-07T17:43:00.000-08:00

Tonight I had to make a pit stop and use the potty at Target. What should have taken under 5 minutes ended up being a 20 minute adventure. First, the stall I selected lacked a functioning lock. Can't have that. So I took myself to the neighboring stall and lo and behold the lock worked. I did my business and despite there being a spot for TWO rolls of toilet paper, this stall was toilet paper free. I texted Brian. I figured he is an expert in all things related to the bathroom. he suggested that I wait until the bathroom cleared out then just (quickly) move to the next stall. The other choice being that I ask someone next to me if they can pass me some toilet paper. I had a problem asking someone for toilet paper. Not only would it be weird to have a faceless voice ask for toilet paper, I didn't want someone touching my toilet paper. Call me a germaphobe. So I went with option #1.

Once I finally got the nerve to attempt to leave the stall with my pants still down, I quickly realized a dilemma: women are quiet. Target has super industrial hand driers that actually blow your skin around. They are LOUD! So once the drier came on I couldn't tell if someone else walked in or if the person drying their hands had left because I could not hear the door open or close. Also, after drying our hands, we ladies often spend time in front of the mirror checking our make-up or teeth for food. We are very quiet as we do this. I eventually peeked out the stall door and made a mad dash to the stall next door. Luckily, no one caught me with my pants down.

25 Things About Me

2009-02-01T10:38:00.000-08:00

I was "tagged" on Facebook to fill out a "25 things about me" questionnaire. Here is what I came up with. I'm very boring.

1. I am always reading at least 2 books. I keep a book upstairs and a book downstairs and read any chance I get.

2. I only watch TV Wednesdays and Sundays. Those are the only days that there is anything on that I like to watch.

3. I want to own my own business one day.

4. I am a constant worrier. I will worry about anything!

5. I am an only child and I'm perfectly happy that way. Sometimes I wish I had siblings but having a sibling is no promise that the relationship will be good.

6. I got my first pet, a cat, when I was 4 and she lived until I was nearly 19.

7. I love to bake and try decorating cakes and cupcakes. Recently I've been into making my own candy.

8. I met my husband in high school but I really didn't like him very much! We did not start dating until I was 22. When we got a little older I realized that we had a lot in common. We're now very happy and enjoy hanging out together. We can be content doing things together or just doing our own thing. He is my bestfriend.

9. I have 2 dogs and I never thought I would. I was always kind of scared of dogs and would avoid them as much as possible. Now that I have my own dogs strange dogs seem to like me better.

10. My dog, Colby found our turtle, Winnie, at a dog park. She only has 3 legs and she is missing a toe on one of her feet. Given her missing leg, I figured she should come home with us. We've had her for almost 3 years now.

11. I'm a huge procrastinator. I will avoid doing things I don't want to do until the last minute.

12. When I am stressed out I will clean the house.

13. I have a hard time getting and staying organized.

14. I enjoy my job (teacher) but I think I am getting really burned out with the students I work with. I will be changing schools for next year!

15. I enjoy matchmaking even if I'm not very good at it.

16. I like walking around the art museum and the zoo (when it is warmer). When I was on leave from my surgery I went to both places often.

17. One of my biggest pet peeves are people who hog conversations and can't seem to talk about anything other than themselves. Ironic that this is a post all about me but you guys know what I'm talking about!

18. I hate shopping. I can't stand the time it takes to try clothes on and I never seem to like anything.

19. Even though I'd never do it in public, I love to sing and I always sing along with the stereo in the car. And for the record, I'm drumming in that picture!

20. When I was taking my driving test for the first time I got nervous and turned left on red! Needless to say, I did not pass!

21. I really enjoy going to concerts and I've been to well over 50 shows.

22. My favorite season is fall. I like moderate weather. I hate anything that is too cold or too hot. Right now I am anxious for summer!

23. I haven't eaten port or red meat since I was 13 and I've never really cared for seafood. Recently I quit eating turkey and chicken. I got grossed out by something I watched about farms and decided I was done. I don't really miss it. I find myself eating more vegetables and making better choices at restaurants. All good things since I'd like to lose some weight.

24. I really like following celebrity gossip for some reason.

25. I love old movies. I like newer ones too but the older ones from the 50s and 60s are my favorites.

My Health

2009-01-24T21:24:00.000-08:00

The last few months, health related, have been difficult. I had surgery in September and still had a drain inserted until Thanksgiving. At my mom's December 13th graduation I felt sick and have been sick every since. Today I went to pick up a cake from my catering co-worker. We both teach at the same 113 year-old-school and we chatted about some of the other schools nearby. She told me about a nearby school, also housed in an old building, that has several staff members with cancer. Makes you wonder about how the environment is effecting these people. Given the fact that I teach in an old buiding and that my classroom is in the basement, I'm wondering if there isn't more to me being sick for nearly 2 months.

Purpose Revisited

2009-01-19T06:54:00.000-08:00

I began this blog a few years ago when I was studying for the PRAXIS 2. Everyday I would go some place new to study then review the atmosphere. Well, I took and passed the PRAXIS 2 and am now a teacher. From here on this blog will cover anything and everything I feel like writing about.

Richey Edwards is dead

2009-01-18T18:20:00.001-08:00

On February 1, 1995, Richey Edwards, the rhythm guitarist and song writer for the Manic Street Preachers went missing. In the days following some people said they saw him at a passport agengy and a taxi drived claimed to have driven him around Wales.

A few days later, Richey's car was found at a service station near the Severn River bridge, a popular suicide spot, but he was never seen or heard from again. Richey Edwards was sensitive and intelligent, but plagued with anorexia, depression, alcoholism, and a penchant for self-mutilation.

In the years that would follow, the Manic Street Preachers would continue on but as a trio with bassist Nicky Wire taking over song writing duties. Although most of their efforts have been solid, Richey's wit and observations are missed.

There would be more Richey sightings in exotic locales like Goa and the Canary Islands. Any time a body part was found in the Severn it was examined to see if it belonged to Richey. So far, nothing has matched.

Over the winter, Richey Edwards' family finally declared him legally dead. He finally received his obituary in the Guardian. We can only hope that he got to read it from Goa.

Study Session 4: Starbucks

2007-05-21T20:29:00.000-07:00

Where: Starbucks, W. 5th Ave. in Columbus, OH.
When: Monday May 21, 2007
Time: 1:30 pm

By far my most entertaining study session. This Starbucks has lots of seating. I put my bags at a table in the back corner while the kind barista made my drink. Best of all, I had a gift card so my drink was free.

When was drink was up I took it back to my table and hooked my laptop in. I like to type my notes out. I also figured they had Wi-Fi but when I looked for a connection nothing looked like Starbucks so I didn't risk it. By the way, secure your network if you do the whole Wi-Fi thing. Anyway...I happily typed, read, and quizzed myself for quite a while.

From the time I arrived there was an older man sitting next to the counter, reading. Randomly, he stands up and says to the girls working there: "Well, you all so loud that I can't concentrate!" They were grinding coffee. In a coffee shop. What is the world coming to? He stomped out after the girls apologized for grinding coffee.

Next came the foreign exchange students. They sat next to me and spoke Portugeuse. I liked hearing the accents but it was distracting. You can't help but wonder if they're making fun of you in their language. After they left, all was quiet again.

I was sitting next to a window and decided to stare outside for a while. There was a guy sitting right outside the window on Starbuck's little patio. He was picking his nose. Yeah, yeah we all do it but this was in public, on a busy street and he was really going at it. It was kind of gross.

Toward the end of my study session, came the loud cell phone talker. Had Seinfeld been on at the height of cell phones, there surely would have been a character called "Loud Cell Phone Talker". I don't have a problem with people sitting and talking on their cell phones but it is so uncomfortable when they are talking about personal topics. Just don't do it. This poor lady was begging---BEGGING---her girlfriend to meet her at Starbucks. This same lady had been working on her laptop and kept turning it on and off. Annoying. Glad I'm not her girlfriend.

Starbuck's Grade: 3.75/5
Bottom line: Good coffee, nice staff, pretty quiet, eccentric patrons

Study Session 3: Grandview Heights Public Library

2007-05-21T20:12:00.000-07:00

Where: Grandview Heights Public Library in Columbus, OH.
When: Wednesday May 16, 2007
Time: 1:30 am

I was not quite finished studying for the day after I left ODU's library. I made my way to the Grandview Heights Public Library. This was a mistake.

Being quite familiar with this location, I knew to go to the Quiet Room. The Quiet Room was great at first. Other than myself, 2 other students were doing work and another person was reading. Nice a quiet. For a while.

Library Offense #1: Loud children Okay. The kid was all of 3 or so. She was running and yelling around the bookshelves next to the Quiet Room. Her mother did not to teach her that libraries are a place for quiet. This went on for far too long until they left.

Library Offense #2: Sleepers I don't think you're supposed to sleep at the library but I couldn't care less most of the time. Unless you snore. And did this guy snore! He sat in the Quiet Room, reading for a while. Then he fell asleep and snorred. I couldn't take it and went home.

Grandview Heights Public Library Grade: 2/5
Bottom Line: Weirdos, noise, free range children

Study Session 2: Ohio Dominican University

2007-05-21T19:58:00.001-07:00

Where: Ohio Dominican University, Spangler Learning Center in Columbus, OH.
When: Wednesday May 16, 2007
Time: 9:00 am

Since the regular school session is over parking was a breeze for a change. I met up with a few friends who are also suffering with the PRAXIS II on June 9. Spangler Learning Center is ODU's library and I'm pretty certain it is the loudest library in the world. Not only are classes going on in this building but the instructors insist on leaving the doors wide open. There are also staff offices inside the library and they too leave their doors wide open. I know far too much about ODU's accounting department thanks to this open door policy.

On this particular day, there were a few people in the library but very few. My friends and I spent at least an hour just complaining about school, grades, teachers, tests, and everything else. It quickly dawned on me that studying with friends is a huge distraction. On the plus side, when we got focused, I printed a 150 page PRAXIS study guide on ODU's printers for free. Well, maybe not for free...my tuition bill is huge.

My friends and I made our way to the top floor's study room and found lots of helpful PRAXIS study guides. This room is in the back so it was pretty quiet...except for us.

ODU's Grade: 3.5/5
Bottom Line: Noisy

Study Session 1: Caribou Coffee

2007-05-21T19:47:00.000-07:00

Where: Caribou on Grandview Ave. in Columbus, OH.
When: Tuesday May 15, 2007
Time: 10:30 am

I was able to find parking right in front of the door which was nice since I was carrying a huge bag of textbooks. I went in and did not have to wait in line to order my coffee. Also nice. I ordered some sort of iced coffee concoction for $3.50. Who said studying is cheap?

When my order was up, I took it to a large table near the windows. There were only about 4 other people there so I had my pick of seats. I felt kind of guilty about taking a big table just for myself but I had tons of books.

Really nothing eventful here at all. All the patrons were studying or doing some kind of work so there were really no distractions. I was seated next to the back entrance so occasionally people would come in and out but overall this was a great place to study. However, if I'd come later in the evening I suspect I would not have found a seat so easily nor would it have been so quiet.

Caribou's Grade: 4.5/5
Bottom Line: Quiet, good seating, expensive coffee.

Purpose

2007-05-21T19:38:00.000-07:00

In my quest to be a teacher, I have encountered countless tests. On June 9 is the Big One: The PRAXIS II. If I don't pass, I don't get my license so this test is important to me.

For the past few weeks I have been studying pretty much all day. Studying for a test like this requires that you understand how you learn and the environment in which you study is important.

I have learned that I cannot study at home. If I try to study at home I am sure to find something else to do: dishes, laundry, walk the dog, video games...you get the idea. The library might seem like an obvious place to study but libraries are loud these days and have turned into free babysitters. I have been forced on the quest of finding the perfect study location...