I work with a flibbertigibbet, honestly, I work with several flibbertigibbets in the two jobs I hold. Nice women, no question about it, but they just go on and on and on and on...and then I start wondering what it is exactly that have been talking about because if they ask me a question or my opinion, well I'm screwed...and I don't want them to think that I'm not listening or that I am a bad person because really, I'm a nice person...a really nice person...so nice in fact I sometimes get taken advantage of...but then, I guess it's better to try to think that people are inherently good and to think that people never really purposely try to take advantage of you because to think of them as bad people would just be really sad...especially now that we are close to the holidays, I mean, that would really suck, wouldn't it?
Man, I'm glad I've got a couple days off work...away from the flibbertigibbets.
Saturday, December 18, 2010
Apathy Runs Amuck...
We've hit that point in the year in which we at all apathetic at school...students and teachers alike...we just don't really care anymore...we're in survival mode these next few days!
While the holidays are great fun and always a great reminder of all the wonderful blessings we have in life, the lead up to them are exhausting! As a school teacher, I know I am fortunate to have a longer break over the holidays than most other professions. BUT, people in other professions will never understand how draining it is to be a teacher...and compounded with hormone-driven emotion teenagers...Well, I'm surprised I haven't turned to drinking yet.
We've two more days (half days at that), and they can't come and end fast enough for any of our likings. I love my job (mostly when I get to shut my door and just teach) and I love my students, but I'm definitely ready for a break from both of them...just as they are in need of a break from me!
While the holidays are great fun and always a great reminder of all the wonderful blessings we have in life, the lead up to them are exhausting! As a school teacher, I know I am fortunate to have a longer break over the holidays than most other professions. BUT, people in other professions will never understand how draining it is to be a teacher...and compounded with hormone-driven emotion teenagers...Well, I'm surprised I haven't turned to drinking yet.
We've two more days (half days at that), and they can't come and end fast enough for any of our likings. I love my job (mostly when I get to shut my door and just teach) and I love my students, but I'm definitely ready for a break from both of them...just as they are in need of a break from me!
Friday, December 17, 2010
Day 12-Cacophony
So, I'm only five words...five days...five entries behind in the challenge, BUT my final paper for class is FINISHED!! I won't pretend that it is my greatest writing achievement, but at this point...it's finished! Insert the cacophony of loud horns, drums, banging piano keys, and of course the vuvuzela!!
Hip Hip Hooray!!!
Hip Hip Hooray!!!
Monday, December 13, 2010
Day 11: Available
Unfortunately there is no available time to write a thoughtful post. I'm swamped with researching and writing a paper for my college class. :(
Saturday, December 11, 2010
Waning Interests
I've never really been a collector of things (minus my Hallmark ornaments, these past few years) and most things I liked while growing up, I still like. I've always been a huge music fan, I still am, but I don't buy the same number of CDs I used to. I still buy the same amount (or more) of music; I just prefer to buy it through iTunes these days (the ease and instant gratification, I guess...and let's not forget the space that can be saved!). I'm still a sports fanatic and I probably watch more games now than I ever did.
If any interest is waning, it's my interest in late nights out on the town. Don't get me wrong, I can enjoy a night out as much as the next person, but the desire to head out for an evening at the 9:00-10:00 hour holds little to no interest for me anymore. And there's very little chance that it will happen on a Friday night! These days, Fridays mean couch time for me. I want to sit comatose for a few hours and just look at moving images. I want to enjoy some quiet time with no one asking me questions or wanting anything from me. After the three hour veg-session, I want to order delivery (Thai worked great last night), possibly build a fire and sit snuggled up to Scott for the remaining hours before I head to bed. Yes, I'm coming to the realization I'm really lame, but I just don't seem to care much these days. :)
If any interest is waning, it's my interest in late nights out on the town. Don't get me wrong, I can enjoy a night out as much as the next person, but the desire to head out for an evening at the 9:00-10:00 hour holds little to no interest for me anymore. And there's very little chance that it will happen on a Friday night! These days, Fridays mean couch time for me. I want to sit comatose for a few hours and just look at moving images. I want to enjoy some quiet time with no one asking me questions or wanting anything from me. After the three hour veg-session, I want to order delivery (Thai worked great last night), possibly build a fire and sit snuggled up to Scott for the remaining hours before I head to bed. Yes, I'm coming to the realization I'm really lame, but I just don't seem to care much these days. :)
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Introducing...
our newest member to the word-a-day writing challenge...From Where I Sit! Welcome!!
This newest member is another colleague of ours...representing the business department. :) He obviously knows where to find the cool kids! In all seriousness though, he's a great teacher and writer and I find him super inspiring! So, make out his blog.
*On another note...yes, I've rushed through a few of my last posts...but I'm finally caught up. That accounts for something, right?!
This newest member is another colleague of ours...representing the business department. :) He obviously knows where to find the cool kids! In all seriousness though, he's a great teacher and writer and I find him super inspiring! So, make out his blog.
*On another note...yes, I've rushed through a few of my last posts...but I'm finally caught up. That accounts for something, right?!
Adoring Adorable
"Adorable" is one of my favorite words. I love telling people they are adorable for some reason or another and I love when the compliment is applied to me. Different things make people adorable...it might be for the way they go through life in a light-hearted manner or that they are able to laugh when things aren't all that funny. Maybe it's the way they interact with others, or the references they make. I'm fortunate to have friends who fulfill all adorable-making categories!
With all the adorable friends I have, I often wonder what adorable aspect I bring to the table. Though there have been a few mentioned over the years, one that always makes me smile is from my friend Jessica. Jessica loves that I use the word "supper" in reference to the evening meal. I've had several people comment on my use of the word (generally making fun of me and my "country ways"), but Jessica is has always found it endearing. Just one of the many reasons I adore Jessica! :)
With all the adorable friends I have, I often wonder what adorable aspect I bring to the table. Though there have been a few mentioned over the years, one that always makes me smile is from my friend Jessica. Jessica loves that I use the word "supper" in reference to the evening meal. I've had several people comment on my use of the word (generally making fun of me and my "country ways"), but Jessica is has always found it endearing. Just one of the many reasons I adore Jessica! :)
Triple-Dog Dare You!!
I can't hear the word "dare" without automatically thinking about the movie The Christmas Story and the triple-dog dare which leads to Flick's tongue getting stuck to the flagpole. Oh how I laugh at his painful cries of "thuck, thUCK, THUCK!" And Ralphie's dilemma of whether or not to stay out or go inside when the school bell rings.
Watching The Christmas Story has become a tradition in my family (like many), and it doesn't matter how many times I see it...I still laugh out loud! I sure am looking forward to the slow days of winter break to start...with no papers to grade, research to do or papers to write...to be able to lounge around the house and watch a few of the family favorites.
Watching The Christmas Story has become a tradition in my family (like many), and it doesn't matter how many times I see it...I still laugh out loud! I sure am looking forward to the slow days of winter break to start...with no papers to grade, research to do or papers to write...to be able to lounge around the house and watch a few of the family favorites.
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Irrevocability
Unfortunately, all relationships aren't irrevocable.
Anyone who knows me or who has ever read my blog knows that the relationship with my father has been strained the past few years. I'd be lying if I said I wasn't upset with how quickly my father moved on to his next relationship, but I am most bothered with how easily he seems to extract himself from all our lives. Communication with my sister, brother and I is completely one-sided; we only talk with him if we make the effort to contact him, and at best, the conversation is trivial. It's frustrating, it's annoying, and at times, I find it downright depressing. I love my dad and it hurts to not have the relationship I had with him while I was growing up, but I can no longer let it determine my life or emotions. I wish things hadn't changed and I still hold out a small amount of hope that things will return to a more "normal" state...but as we all know, sometimes even the best of relationships can't be repaired.
Anyone who knows me or who has ever read my blog knows that the relationship with my father has been strained the past few years. I'd be lying if I said I wasn't upset with how quickly my father moved on to his next relationship, but I am most bothered with how easily he seems to extract himself from all our lives. Communication with my sister, brother and I is completely one-sided; we only talk with him if we make the effort to contact him, and at best, the conversation is trivial. It's frustrating, it's annoying, and at times, I find it downright depressing. I love my dad and it hurts to not have the relationship I had with him while I was growing up, but I can no longer let it determine my life or emotions. I wish things hadn't changed and I still hold out a small amount of hope that things will return to a more "normal" state...but as we all know, sometimes even the best of relationships can't be repaired.
Sunday, December 5, 2010
A Toast to Wanderlust
I had a desire to travel from a very early age. Through most of my childhood, into my teenage years, and on into adulthood my dream was to go to Australia. The realization of that dream came in 2004. With a few great friends, I was able to travel to Sydney and spend the week of a lifetime. Though I knew I would love the experience I would never have guessed the innate connection I felt with the area when I stepped off the plane. The walk down to "The Rocks" was actually emotional for me. The sounds, the smells, the sun, the sandstone...it felt like they were all a part of me. I spent a whirlwind week taking in sights and sounds, my heart swelling with every experience. When it came time to leave, I cried. I realized I was "homesick" walking to the plane. I couldn't even truly enjoy New Zealand (our next stop) because I was in mourning...a large part of me was left in Australia.
Wanderlust begins, returns and ends in Australia for me. While I hope to see all the world and experience numerous cultures, I know I will always want to return to the Land Down Under. I want to explore the Great Barrier Reef and attend the symphony at the Sydney Opera House. I want to bring in the New Year with my Australian friends on a roof top overlooking Sydney Harbor Bridge....and I will. I will live in Australia for a considerable duration of time, at some point in my life. So until that time, I'll dream and I'll plan and I'll save.
Wanderlust begins, returns and ends in Australia for me. While I hope to see all the world and experience numerous cultures, I know I will always want to return to the Land Down Under. I want to explore the Great Barrier Reef and attend the symphony at the Sydney Opera House. I want to bring in the New Year with my Australian friends on a roof top overlooking Sydney Harbor Bridge....and I will. I will live in Australia for a considerable duration of time, at some point in my life. So until that time, I'll dream and I'll plan and I'll save.
Saturday, December 4, 2010
Silly anxieties...
I freely admit when it comes to my Christmas ornaments, I border on being O.C.D. I began collecting Hallmark ornaments with my mom and sister several years ago. What started out as a "filler" gift (you know, those gifts you buy to round out a person's gifts, or to make sure you spent the same amount on each person) in the past has now become the focus of much of our Christmas holiday. Needless to say, I've got multiple tubs of Hallmark ornaments. Tubs of wrapped and boxed Hallmark ornaments. Yes, I am very particular with my ornaments. And, there is a process for getting the ornaments out, hanging them up, and putting them away. I know it's excessive...I make fun of myself for it...but, I LOVE my ornaments!
So, last night when it was decided that we would put up my Christmas tree, I was excited and a little leery. Scott helped me decorate my tree last year, so he had a pretty good idea of my system. This year, my help were O. and M., and their excitement for all these tiny unopened boxes, while absolutely adorable, was completely nerve racking for me. Though Scott says I looked calm sitting there with the boys digging through my beloved ornaments, my anxiety had to be transparent. My offers to open the ornaments and have them hang them were pretty much ignored...I can't blame them, as Scott later told my sister, "it was like hundreds of little Christmas gifts sitting right there in front of them"...and I held my breath as I watched them delve into the tubs. Fortunately, with a lot of prompting and careful observation, both boys followed my rules of carefully opening the box, carefully pulling out the ornament and unwrapping it, then carefully putting the bubble wrap or tissue paper back in the box. They were a little disappointed when I told them they couldn't pop the bubble wrap, but they quickly got over it once they started to look at and play with the animated ornaments.
In the end, no boxes were torn, most packaging was returned to its correct box, and only one ornament had to seek a touch of superglue. It was fun to see M. and O.'s excitement as I pointed out different ornaments and showed them where buttons and levers were to be found on them, but I was more able to breathe once we'd gotten through the opening of all the boxes. I'm not proud of my anxiety in regards to the ornaments...I know it's silly, but I really do LOVE my ornaments. I love reacquainting myself with the ones I have forgotten over the past eleven months and having the opportunity to put them on the tree for the very first time. Though the "putting up" process is a bit tedious and I am a little particular about their placement on the tree (what...I have to showcase my favorites!) as well, the end result is a thing of beauty!
So, last night when it was decided that we would put up my Christmas tree, I was excited and a little leery. Scott helped me decorate my tree last year, so he had a pretty good idea of my system. This year, my help were O. and M., and their excitement for all these tiny unopened boxes, while absolutely adorable, was completely nerve racking for me. Though Scott says I looked calm sitting there with the boys digging through my beloved ornaments, my anxiety had to be transparent. My offers to open the ornaments and have them hang them were pretty much ignored...I can't blame them, as Scott later told my sister, "it was like hundreds of little Christmas gifts sitting right there in front of them"...and I held my breath as I watched them delve into the tubs. Fortunately, with a lot of prompting and careful observation, both boys followed my rules of carefully opening the box, carefully pulling out the ornament and unwrapping it, then carefully putting the bubble wrap or tissue paper back in the box. They were a little disappointed when I told them they couldn't pop the bubble wrap, but they quickly got over it once they started to look at and play with the animated ornaments.
In the end, no boxes were torn, most packaging was returned to its correct box, and only one ornament had to seek a touch of superglue. It was fun to see M. and O.'s excitement as I pointed out different ornaments and showed them where buttons and levers were to be found on them, but I was more able to breathe once we'd gotten through the opening of all the boxes. I'm not proud of my anxiety in regards to the ornaments...I know it's silly, but I really do LOVE my ornaments. I love reacquainting myself with the ones I have forgotten over the past eleven months and having the opportunity to put them on the tree for the very first time. Though the "putting up" process is a bit tedious and I am a little particular about their placement on the tree (what...I have to showcase my favorites!) as well, the end result is a thing of beauty!
Bamboozle--What a Fun Word to Say!
As an educator, it's easy to feel like my students are trying to bamboozle me on a daily basis. I don't generally look at their attempts as mean spirited, more just a means of having to do less work. They're teenagers and it's expected; it would be abnormal for them not to test the boundaries. And, I appreciate their efforts when they are successful.
On the other hand, I've had plenty of people try to bamboozle me in my personal life. I've been in relationships where as we got more serious, the more things began to change. The admiration for my coaching three sports and teaching soon became a one-sided topic as we began to talk of the future that lay ahead of us; one-sided on his part..."you won't be able to coach when we have children, you'll need to be at home." I remember feeling tricked, bamboozled, when the words trailed off his lips. I stared in disbelief and I walked out. This wasn't the first nor the last relationship (friendship or otherwise) I ended for feeling like I'd been deceived.
It's these past relationships, these unexpected shifts that make me so thankful for Scott. Since our first meeting (afternoon coffee), I've never had a reason to feel suspicious or anxious about what the future would hold. Scott has never been anything but completely upfront about his past, his failures, his hopes, his dreams, etc. I've never met a more honest or more true person than Scott (one of the many reasons I am marrying this man!); shoot, he was even relieved when his attempts to throw me a surprise birthday party were thwarted. :)
To be able to trust completely...that's big...that's really BIG!
On the other hand, I've had plenty of people try to bamboozle me in my personal life. I've been in relationships where as we got more serious, the more things began to change. The admiration for my coaching three sports and teaching soon became a one-sided topic as we began to talk of the future that lay ahead of us; one-sided on his part..."you won't be able to coach when we have children, you'll need to be at home." I remember feeling tricked, bamboozled, when the words trailed off his lips. I stared in disbelief and I walked out. This wasn't the first nor the last relationship (friendship or otherwise) I ended for feeling like I'd been deceived.
It's these past relationships, these unexpected shifts that make me so thankful for Scott. Since our first meeting (afternoon coffee), I've never had a reason to feel suspicious or anxious about what the future would hold. Scott has never been anything but completely upfront about his past, his failures, his hopes, his dreams, etc. I've never met a more honest or more true person than Scott (one of the many reasons I am marrying this man!); shoot, he was even relieved when his attempts to throw me a surprise birthday party were thwarted. :)
To be able to trust completely...that's big...that's really BIG!
Thursday, December 2, 2010
Day 2: Nihilism
Really?! Nihilism...Hmmm...
Well, it took a consult with Mr. Webster to make sure I even knew what the word means...total rejection of established laws and institutions.
I can't say that I've ever sat and thought about anything in terms of complete rejection...hmmm, what do I reject...
It feels a little weird to be saying this, especially as I plan my own wedding, but of all institutions, I am most discouraged with the institution of marriage. Don't get me wrong, I'm a huge proponent for commitment and the joining of lives, but it's hard to believe in a system that doesn't allow every one to legally marry. Times change and so should the social institutions in which we most strongly believe, and effect the greatest majority. There shouldn't be laws that determine which genders of people are allowed to love one another and be legally bound. So, I guess it is fair to say I reject the [current] established laws which govern the participation in the institution of marriage.
***I'm crossing my fingers for a much "fluffier" word tomorrow!
Well, it took a consult with Mr. Webster to make sure I even knew what the word means...total rejection of established laws and institutions.
I can't say that I've ever sat and thought about anything in terms of complete rejection...hmmm, what do I reject...
It feels a little weird to be saying this, especially as I plan my own wedding, but of all institutions, I am most discouraged with the institution of marriage. Don't get me wrong, I'm a huge proponent for commitment and the joining of lives, but it's hard to believe in a system that doesn't allow every one to legally marry. Times change and so should the social institutions in which we most strongly believe, and effect the greatest majority. There shouldn't be laws that determine which genders of people are allowed to love one another and be legally bound. So, I guess it is fair to say I reject the [current] established laws which govern the participation in the institution of marriage.
***I'm crossing my fingers for a much "fluffier" word tomorrow!
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
A December Writing Challenge
Tonight is the night regular writing begins, again. My buddies (Crazybastard66 and NoisyLittleAdventures) and I have devised a challenge...a one-word challenge. Every day in December a random word (supplied by one of us) will be drawn and our task will be to include the word in a piece of writing (it could just be in the title) or simply write from inspiration derived from the chosen word. The web site instructs participants to write for sixty seconds...this all English-teacher crew has decided to toss that guideline...we like words and our own voices (in writing of course) too much to be limited to a mere sixty seconds! So, here goes...
Tonight
Tonight was spent in class, well, two and a half hours of it anyway. I like the class, I like the people in the class, and I thoroughly enjoy the wit and intellect of the instructor; but, I am so ready for this class to be over. I want my Wednesday evenings with "my fellas" back, and I want to be able to absent-mindlessly watch a movie without thinking about star power, commercial aesthetics, production codes, lighting, framing, and staging techniques, or focus on camera angles. I merely want to enjoy the spectacle of Harry Potter escaping the Dementor's kiss or jump out of my seat when I'm startled by the snake striking at the screen, instead of thinking the director broke the rules by making the audience a part of the film instead of allowing us to just be spectators...I want to stop using the word spectacle when talking about what is projected on a movie screen! After a finishing a fifteen page paper I have yet to start and a final class meeting, I will try to return to the role of audience member...and, I plan on celebrating that moment with Scott, a bowl of popcorn...and, perhaps, Johnny Depp.
**Follow our challenge, hold us accountable to writing every day...join our challenge! Leave a comment if you'd like to participate and we'll get you linked!
Tonight
Tonight was spent in class, well, two and a half hours of it anyway. I like the class, I like the people in the class, and I thoroughly enjoy the wit and intellect of the instructor; but, I am so ready for this class to be over. I want my Wednesday evenings with "my fellas" back, and I want to be able to absent-mindlessly watch a movie without thinking about star power, commercial aesthetics, production codes, lighting, framing, and staging techniques, or focus on camera angles. I merely want to enjoy the spectacle of Harry Potter escaping the Dementor's kiss or jump out of my seat when I'm startled by the snake striking at the screen, instead of thinking the director broke the rules by making the audience a part of the film instead of allowing us to just be spectators...I want to stop using the word spectacle when talking about what is projected on a movie screen! After a finishing a fifteen page paper I have yet to start and a final class meeting, I will try to return to the role of audience member...and, I plan on celebrating that moment with Scott, a bowl of popcorn...and, perhaps, Johnny Depp.
**Follow our challenge, hold us accountable to writing every day...join our challenge! Leave a comment if you'd like to participate and we'll get you linked!
Friday, November 5, 2010
Wow...Nothing Since April!
No question that life is BUSY...but, it's good!
I hope to become more regular on here again, but with grad classes, wedding planning, working to make a living, and actually trying to have a life on top of it all, there isn't enough time in the day. So, here's a cute photo from this past weekend to hopefully get the ball rolling...
I hope to become more regular on here again, but with grad classes, wedding planning, working to make a living, and actually trying to have a life on top of it all, there isn't enough time in the day. So, here's a cute photo from this past weekend to hopefully get the ball rolling...
Friday, April 23, 2010
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
We're Engaged!!
Scott "popped" the question Saturday night after finishing our meal at Trattoria Marcella. I, surprised and overjoyed, said YES!! No details yet...I'm just going to take some time to enjoy these moments. Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Just one of the many reasons I love him...
While I wonder if it is appropriate to share this personal email with the world, I can't help but want to share it with the world.
For no reason, Scott sent me this message this morning:
As our days melt into a comfortable routine that may, at moments, seem mundane...
I need you to know this...(and please take this seriously)...
I've never met a person with whom I'd rather share all of my moments...my thoughts - big and small, my corny jokes, my slightly awkward stories, my strengths, my weaknesses, and most of all my dreams.
I am so honored to be with you. I hope you know.
I will always love and adore you - just as you are, but also for what you will become.
Scott
For no reason, Scott sent me this message this morning:
As our days melt into a comfortable routine that may, at moments, seem mundane...
I need you to know this...(and please take this seriously)...
I've never met a person with whom I'd rather share all of my moments...my thoughts - big and small, my corny jokes, my slightly awkward stories, my strengths, my weaknesses, and most of all my dreams.
I am so honored to be with you. I hope you know.
I will always love and adore you - just as you are, but also for what you will become.
Scott
Monday, January 11, 2010
The "Woe Is Me" Post
There have been many wonderful moments for me this past year (most referred to in my last blog entry), but with the great there always seems to be some-not-so-great moments. While I'm grateful for every single positive thing that has happened and I'm greatly blessed, I'm hoping my run of bad luck is over soon.
Some of the not-so-good items of 2009 and now carrying over into 2010:
I bought my first home, a two-bedroom condo. While this is good and exciting news, the process I went through to become a first time home buyer was not good. My Realtors were great, but the hoops I had to jump through to get approval were tedious and RIDICULOUS. On the day of my closing, I sat in the office for nearly three hours waiting for final approval to come. Every one involved in the process said they had ever had a closing like this...lucky me.
The day after I signed on my condo, I hydroplaned on the highway on the way to school. I was very lucky to walk away with a few bumps and bruises, and some stiff and aching muscles and joints. The possibility of much more serious injuries was great as I went into the median in the inner most lane and then did a 360 degree spin across all three lanes of traffic. It was rush hour, traffic was heavy and I didn't get hit by or hit another vehicle. Had I looked over to the passenger seat, I think I might have seen someone sitting there...I definitely had a guardian angel there with me that morning. So, surviving and not being seriously hurt...Great. Totaling my truck the day after buying my first home....BAD.
The search for a new vehicle started...it's amazing how difficult it is to decide on a vehicle when your mind wasn't in the frame of buying any time soon. Walking onto a lot was overwhelming...so many cars, colors, models, etc....and I with not a clue as to what I even wanted to look at. Let's not forget to mention the stalking that took place on the few lots I visited, either...CAR SALESMEN ARE LIKE VULTURES. And why is it that despite me being the one who was looking to buy the car, the salesmen always directed their questions towards Scott? Some habits are hard to break and I found myself retreating to Columbia...where I am familiar with the dealerships and where my family resides. I found a great car, one that I fell in love with instantly, and I was treated with respect. The salesman dealt with me, answered all my questions without making me feeling stupid and I did all the negotiating...despite my brother sitting in the office with me.
The hunt for the car finally paid off, but, still, I was waiting on insurance. For a week I sat idle...no contact from the adjuster, no returned phone calls. There is no feeling worse than sitting in limbo...were they going to total my truck?...how much were they going to give me for it?...etc. It finally took a call from my uncle (who has a pretty high position in the insurance company) to get things moving...the day after his call, I received a call and a sizeable check for my totalled vehicle. Bad. Good. Mostly Annoying.
So, I now have a car I love to drive and that I am completely happy with. Life, my life at the moment anyway, can't be that easy though. The week before Christmas I walked to my car to go to work. I start to open the rear door to put my stuff in the car and see that my driver's side window has been busted out. WTF?!! I call school to tell them I would be late arriving because I had to spend my morning with the police. :(
My neighborhood got hit by thieves and vandals...9 cars were broken in to and had things stolen out (I had nothing in my car to steal) and they did actually steal one vehicle. According to the police, the thieves spent a lot of time at my car as it was their intent to steal it. They first tried going through the lock, which was destroyed and pushed into the door (their work obviously messed up the paint). Secondly, they tried to go through the window in three different areas, damaging the window frame and ultimately breaking the glass, which probably resulted in the alarm going off and them running. Good news...my car was still sitting in the lot and nothing was actually stolen. Bad news...$500 deductible that I am responsible for, at Christmas.
I was able to get my car to a dealership to be housed and have the glass replaced, all in a timely manner. I was fortunate to have my car over the holidays...it was driveable, but still needing body work. Last Monday I took my car back to the dealership to have all the work completed (all new parts, painting, etc.) and was told it would be a two-day process. As of today, I still don't have my car. A part was delayed in Chicago because of the winter storms last week and now I'm told the part has been delivered, but it is the wrong part. I'm told they hope to have it finished tomorrow, but I'm past the point of holding out hope. The dealership has provided me with a rental car (at their expense)...I appreciate it; however, I don't want to drive a rental...I WANT MY CAR!
Much of my frustration comes from feeling like I've had my independence stripped from me. While no one has batted an eye at my asking for a ride or me not being able to meet up with them this week, there is something about not having the option to go somewhere if you want, when you want, and not having to plan every errand through another person.
I'm hoping this post, this purging, allows me to focus once again on the positives in my life. I've always heard that bad things come in 3's...surely this counts for three! PLEASE. LET. THIS. BE. THREE!
Some of the not-so-good items of 2009 and now carrying over into 2010:
I bought my first home, a two-bedroom condo. While this is good and exciting news, the process I went through to become a first time home buyer was not good. My Realtors were great, but the hoops I had to jump through to get approval were tedious and RIDICULOUS. On the day of my closing, I sat in the office for nearly three hours waiting for final approval to come. Every one involved in the process said they had ever had a closing like this...lucky me.
The day after I signed on my condo, I hydroplaned on the highway on the way to school. I was very lucky to walk away with a few bumps and bruises, and some stiff and aching muscles and joints. The possibility of much more serious injuries was great as I went into the median in the inner most lane and then did a 360 degree spin across all three lanes of traffic. It was rush hour, traffic was heavy and I didn't get hit by or hit another vehicle. Had I looked over to the passenger seat, I think I might have seen someone sitting there...I definitely had a guardian angel there with me that morning. So, surviving and not being seriously hurt...Great. Totaling my truck the day after buying my first home....BAD.
The search for a new vehicle started...it's amazing how difficult it is to decide on a vehicle when your mind wasn't in the frame of buying any time soon. Walking onto a lot was overwhelming...so many cars, colors, models, etc....and I with not a clue as to what I even wanted to look at. Let's not forget to mention the stalking that took place on the few lots I visited, either...CAR SALESMEN ARE LIKE VULTURES. And why is it that despite me being the one who was looking to buy the car, the salesmen always directed their questions towards Scott? Some habits are hard to break and I found myself retreating to Columbia...where I am familiar with the dealerships and where my family resides. I found a great car, one that I fell in love with instantly, and I was treated with respect. The salesman dealt with me, answered all my questions without making me feeling stupid and I did all the negotiating...despite my brother sitting in the office with me.
The hunt for the car finally paid off, but, still, I was waiting on insurance. For a week I sat idle...no contact from the adjuster, no returned phone calls. There is no feeling worse than sitting in limbo...were they going to total my truck?...how much were they going to give me for it?...etc. It finally took a call from my uncle (who has a pretty high position in the insurance company) to get things moving...the day after his call, I received a call and a sizeable check for my totalled vehicle. Bad. Good. Mostly Annoying.
So, I now have a car I love to drive and that I am completely happy with. Life, my life at the moment anyway, can't be that easy though. The week before Christmas I walked to my car to go to work. I start to open the rear door to put my stuff in the car and see that my driver's side window has been busted out. WTF?!! I call school to tell them I would be late arriving because I had to spend my morning with the police. :(
My neighborhood got hit by thieves and vandals...9 cars were broken in to and had things stolen out (I had nothing in my car to steal) and they did actually steal one vehicle. According to the police, the thieves spent a lot of time at my car as it was their intent to steal it. They first tried going through the lock, which was destroyed and pushed into the door (their work obviously messed up the paint). Secondly, they tried to go through the window in three different areas, damaging the window frame and ultimately breaking the glass, which probably resulted in the alarm going off and them running. Good news...my car was still sitting in the lot and nothing was actually stolen. Bad news...$500 deductible that I am responsible for, at Christmas.
I was able to get my car to a dealership to be housed and have the glass replaced, all in a timely manner. I was fortunate to have my car over the holidays...it was driveable, but still needing body work. Last Monday I took my car back to the dealership to have all the work completed (all new parts, painting, etc.) and was told it would be a two-day process. As of today, I still don't have my car. A part was delayed in Chicago because of the winter storms last week and now I'm told the part has been delivered, but it is the wrong part. I'm told they hope to have it finished tomorrow, but I'm past the point of holding out hope. The dealership has provided me with a rental car (at their expense)...I appreciate it; however, I don't want to drive a rental...I WANT MY CAR!
Much of my frustration comes from feeling like I've had my independence stripped from me. While no one has batted an eye at my asking for a ride or me not being able to meet up with them this week, there is something about not having the option to go somewhere if you want, when you want, and not having to plan every errand through another person.
I'm hoping this post, this purging, allows me to focus once again on the positives in my life. I've always heard that bad things come in 3's...surely this counts for three! PLEASE. LET. THIS. BE. THREE!
Thursday, January 7, 2010
Reflections
As I sit here staring out the window on this cold and snowy Thursday morning (school is canceled!) and listening to the rhythmic pounding of Scott's feet on the treadmill, I find my mind thinking about the past year and where I am in my life right now.
Winter is often the season in which I do most of my reflection. I'm not a fan of cold weather, and especially not cold and wet weather, so I spend a lot of time sitting inside...sitting inside and looking out. I guess it's a bit of a metaphor for my processing...going deep within myself, my heart, my brain, and "looking" out at my life.
2009 was a great year for me...so great, that part of me actually hated to see it come to an end. Professionally, I've never had a better year. The previous summer I decided to revamp my teaching style and never before had I felt more invigorated or "in tune" with my teaching or my students. I was named Teacher of the Year at my school and I brought the idea of Writers Week back from the National Conference for English Teachers.
Attending one session, with two gentlemen from a Chicago high school, changed my life and the environment of my entire school. With the help and dedication of a few of my closest and most respected colleagues, we created an event which showcased our students' writing abilities, humanized teachers in the eyes of their students, and allowed a number of professional writers to share their talents and crafts with large groups of students. This event brought students together, realizing they were all very much alike, despite gender, race, culture, abilities, etc. At the end of the year, a majority of seniors (as well as other students) voted WW as the most memorable event in their high school experiences. To know that I was a part of that is almost overwhelming.
In addition to such great fortune professionally, Scott came into my life. For this, I am most blessed.
Of all places, Scott and I met online. I'd never have guessed I'd make a lasting connection with someone through this venue, but then, never would I have guessed I could have such a profound connection with a partner. And, that is what Scott has become...a partner, in every sense of the word. In six short months (despite my feeling like I have known him forever), he has become my best friend, my confidante, my hero, my stability, my rock. Despite my independent-minded personality and lifestyle, I can't (nor do I want to) imagine living without him. In addition to Scott, my life has been enriched by two young men, his sons- O. and M. I joke that I got three for the price of one, but I can't imagine my life without any of them.
My life has definitely changed in the past few months. Where I was beginning to think I would spend this life on my own, with the unconditional love of friends and family to feed my soul, I'm now on the verge of joining my already fulfilled life with Scott and his boys. I never dreamed my happiness could be multiplied in such great measure.
So, I sit here watching the snow swirl in the frigid breeze and I'm thankful for a lazy day in a home with the boys I've grown to love, for the warm and crackling fire Scott built a little while ago, and for the understanding that this is just the beginning to a beautiful new phase of my life. I'll forever carry fond memories of 2009, but I also look forward with great anticipation for what 2010 has to offer.
May you all be as richly blessed as I feel this very moment.
Winter is often the season in which I do most of my reflection. I'm not a fan of cold weather, and especially not cold and wet weather, so I spend a lot of time sitting inside...sitting inside and looking out. I guess it's a bit of a metaphor for my processing...going deep within myself, my heart, my brain, and "looking" out at my life.
2009 was a great year for me...so great, that part of me actually hated to see it come to an end. Professionally, I've never had a better year. The previous summer I decided to revamp my teaching style and never before had I felt more invigorated or "in tune" with my teaching or my students. I was named Teacher of the Year at my school and I brought the idea of Writers Week back from the National Conference for English Teachers.
Attending one session, with two gentlemen from a Chicago high school, changed my life and the environment of my entire school. With the help and dedication of a few of my closest and most respected colleagues, we created an event which showcased our students' writing abilities, humanized teachers in the eyes of their students, and allowed a number of professional writers to share their talents and crafts with large groups of students. This event brought students together, realizing they were all very much alike, despite gender, race, culture, abilities, etc. At the end of the year, a majority of seniors (as well as other students) voted WW as the most memorable event in their high school experiences. To know that I was a part of that is almost overwhelming.
In addition to such great fortune professionally, Scott came into my life. For this, I am most blessed.
Of all places, Scott and I met online. I'd never have guessed I'd make a lasting connection with someone through this venue, but then, never would I have guessed I could have such a profound connection with a partner. And, that is what Scott has become...a partner, in every sense of the word. In six short months (despite my feeling like I have known him forever), he has become my best friend, my confidante, my hero, my stability, my rock. Despite my independent-minded personality and lifestyle, I can't (nor do I want to) imagine living without him. In addition to Scott, my life has been enriched by two young men, his sons- O. and M. I joke that I got three for the price of one, but I can't imagine my life without any of them.
My life has definitely changed in the past few months. Where I was beginning to think I would spend this life on my own, with the unconditional love of friends and family to feed my soul, I'm now on the verge of joining my already fulfilled life with Scott and his boys. I never dreamed my happiness could be multiplied in such great measure.
So, I sit here watching the snow swirl in the frigid breeze and I'm thankful for a lazy day in a home with the boys I've grown to love, for the warm and crackling fire Scott built a little while ago, and for the understanding that this is just the beginning to a beautiful new phase of my life. I'll forever carry fond memories of 2009, but I also look forward with great anticipation for what 2010 has to offer.
May you all be as richly blessed as I feel this very moment.
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