the berry and the squirrel

In the mornings, I let Fergus outside to play (read "stalk bugs and eat grass) outside. Lately, he's found a new "friend" to play with. For the past 4 mornings, Fergus and this little squirrel have been chasing each other up and down our big maple. They'll take breaks to natter at one another and then the chase is on again. I wonder what Fergus will do if he catches the squirrel?

Before supper, he was such a whiny cat, we put him in the spare room. Here he is trying to make his escape.

Today, I went out to my a farm near my parents and picked saskatoon berries with Karri and Mom. We picked like fiends. I have over 24 cups! On top of the rhubarb Karri gave me last week (21 cups), I'll be busy baking sweet treats for a while. Rhubarb and saskatoons... definately some of my favorite things about living on the prairies.

Confessions...

Things I've learned about myself in the dog days of summer.

1. Since coming home from Germany, I lack motivation. Motivation for doing my class, motivation for re-doing our siding, motivation for doing my hair, motivation for most things except reading like a fiend.

2. I have a serious guilt complex so, the lack of motivation isn't helping. (The most pressing guilt I'm currently feeling is the amount of crazy weeds in my back alley...)

3. I LOVE grocery shopping. I love pushing the cart through the aisles and reading labels and price checking and looking at all the produce and imagining what great things I could cook if I'd only get motivated.

4. My cat is a wee beastie. I think he scared our house-sitter with his demanding cat-ttitude. What will we do when we go away at Christmas?

5. I dread the fall. I love my job but, I love sitting on my butt more. How do I get paid for that?

Any confessions you'd like to make?

humdrum

Returning to the routine of things has been a little bit of a comforting struggle. My body is still having its ups and downs recovering(?) from this flu bug that seems to be attacking my sweet husband again (poor man... should have thrown up when he could instead of endure the crampy ravages of this beasty of a bug).
I'm trying to find a routine.
"Ah, you teachers... what do you do all summer?"
I power walk and garden and try to get into discipline to take my correspondence class (blech). I lounge in my mother's pool and haul my cat out of trees. I try not to read all day (but I would if I could). I plan the garage sale (that I'm afraid I'll never have) to try and get rid of all the junk in the basement. I watch the days tick by on the calendar and wish we could have July forever.
It's a busy, difficult life. It's one of the perks to my career that I wouldn't trade for the world!

2 1/2 weeks of travel bliss

We're back!
We had an amazing trip. I loved traveling with my sweet husband!
We arrived in Hamburg at 9:30 am after flying all night and made ourselves stay up all day to ward off jet lag. We hung out in an awesome park, ate hamburgers, went on a canal tour (in German - not really too sure what we saw) and went to bed early!
After another day in Hamburg, we spent 3 glorious days on the island of Rugen in the sea-side town of Binz. We played in the Baltic Sea, took a boat out to visit the famed White Cliffs and generally had a mini-beach holiday.
Next stop was Berlin. This was my second time in Berlin and I still feel like I need to go back to see it all. We had 3 crazy, crammed days. Highlights included the Sony Center, the Reichstag, Schloss Sophie-Charlotta and piles of history. Of course, the biggest highlight was the Radiohead concert. Amazing! I don't even really like Radiohead (Trevor's favorite band) but, it was still the best concert of my life.
The morning after the concert, we bordered a train and left Germany for the Czech Republic to visit Prague. We toured Prague Castle and enjoyed the city. We made sure to eat goulash but, passed on the pig knuckle.
Our next stop was Nuremberg where the Old City is still walled in. Although it rained a lot, we were still able to relax and see quite a bit. This was our favorite hostel. We were given the "Honeymoon Suite" and we spent our evenings hanging out with other backpackers.
Lastly, we ended up in Munich where we power-shopped for souvenirs and endured the rain. Fortunately, on our anniversary, the sun came out and we headed to off to see Newschwanstein with Mike's Bike Tours. In the morning, we biked to an lake and rode and alpine slide. In the afternoon, we toured the castle itself. Amazing!
We're kind of sad to be back and done our European adventures. However, it's also nice to have our home and our own bed and food in the fridge. It was also good to see our parents and Fergus.
Unfortunately, we have the flu. I yakked up my Mom's welcome home supper while trying to show my parents pictures and I'm still a little leery of food today. Trevor's currently napping through a pretty bad stomach ache. Not the best kind of feeling to combine with jet lag. Ah well...

and we're off...

Tomorrow morning, we get on a plane and fly to Germany. Why Germany? Why not? We want to backpack Europe a bit and, with limited time, we thought one country (with a jaunt to Prague in the Czech Republic) would suffice. Besides, there's way less train time and way more adventure time this way!
First stop - Hamburg. Goals: eat a hamburger and tour the canals
Second Stop - Binz. Goals: suntan on the Baltic coast and see chalk cliffs
Third Stop - Berlin. Goals: Radiohead concert and see the Wall
Fourth Stop - Prague. Goals: see the castle and visit the squares
Fifth Stop - Nuremberg. Goals: tour the medieval wall and eat ice cream
Sixth Stop - Munich. Goals: eat a pretzel and see the big cuckoo clock

We'll be back by mid-July!

School's out for the summer

Alice Cooper was playing "School's Out" on the intercom.
Some were dressed up in crazy drama dept costumes.
We ran a lap of the school halls as a breakneck pace.
Today, the teachers did the good-bye lap.
We looked kind of like this.

My smile can't get any bigger.

Con"grad"ulations

Last night I dressed up and went to the 2008 grad. I watched ~150 young people walk across a stage and receive their passport to their future.
Grad is a beautiful thing... full of hopes and dreams and the idealism of youth. Nobody walks across the stage thinking, "Gee, I can't wait to get my welfare check" or "Yeehaw, now I can get a dead-end job". Instead, it's all about being as successful as possible. It really is an uplifting event.
Strangely, I sat alone in a crowd. Trevor's been to enough grads for kids I teach, I let him off the hook this year. I walked in and I could not find one single teacher I knew. I sat with some kid's family. I cheered loudly for the 20 kids I taught this year and I went home. As lonesome as it was, I don't think I'd want to miss it. Grad is the icing on the cake for a high school teacher.
Tomorrow is my last day of school for the year. Just 4 more sleeps until our big trip...

How I...

Every few nights, Trevor and I watch the adventures of Ted Mosby and his buddies Marshall, Lily, Robin and the legen-(wait for it)-dary Barney. If you haven't yet watched How I Met Your Mother, I seriously recommend it. Last night, we watched Marshall and Lily get married. It made me happy.

Sweet Summer Breeze

Today, we ripped out a half dead bush and replaced it with a rose bush.
I weeded and watered and Trevor mowed the grass. We chased Fergus up and down our big maple tree.
I trimmed and deadheaded my flowers.
I love being outside. I love that it is Saturday and I have NO school related obligations. I have nothing to mark and I have no more uni assignments stealing my time.
Nothing but the sun and the sweet summer breeze.

Last night, we had the teacher I share a classroom and his wife over for supper. Nice veggie kabobs, feta and herb potatoes and a yummy roast (no school = Jill cooking). He's a great first year teacher who's temporary contract wasn't renewed. I don't understand why. He does a great job with the kids and makes math fun (who knew that could happen?). I feel bad that his contract wasn't prolonged. I know exactly how he feels. It sucks that sometime administrators let good people walk out the building. I don't think I'll ever get it. I really hope he hears something so he can stop worrying.

Yipppeee!

Today was the last class day of the school year. I played many rounds of Mafia, facilitated a sharing circle, reviewed and reviewed and reviewed, hosted 2 very intense games of Final Jeopardy and witnessed the annual grade 12 lap around the school. I ended the day with the happy dance.
Tonight, I handed in a major project, wrote an exam and did a major presentation. I walked out the doors of the university with a smile on my face.
Now, my greatest stress will be finding cool tunes for my IPod, prepping for Europe (maintaining calm because I am soooo excited), battling the canker worm invasion and hauling Fergus out of trees.
Bring on summer because I am ready! :)
P.S. - If you know any cool summer tunes to add to my summer bliss, let me know.

Almost

Almost:
-the weekend
-the last day of school (this coming Tuesday)
-my last uni class (also this coming Tuesday)
-our trip to Germany... we leave the 30th

My Mom always told me to enjoy today and don't spend my time wishing for tomorrow. It's hard to follow that advice right now!

29 and holding

Yesterday, I turned 29. People keep joking that I've now had my final birthday and that I will be 29 and holding from now on.
I'm actually okay with my age and approaching the big 3-0. I'm liking the way I'm living my life and I'm getting adventures galore so, I'm happy.
This week, we also celebrate year 2 in our happy little home. This year, we plan on a major exterior face lift. Pretty good for a 67 year old.
This coming Sunday is Trevor's B-day as well.
Tonight, we dined at Zest, this amazing little restaurant. It's one of my favorite places to go for special occasions. Trevor bought me a nice little GPS unit and some LuLu Lemon pants. Lucky me!

Why I Love Teaching

I have one of the most eclectic and adventurous jobs I could ever think of. Even when I teach the same subject two hours in a row, it varies enormously. Teaching is always an interesting job.
It's just Wednesday but so far this week I have:
-researched serial killers (yucky)
-had those crazy "too much cleavage" conversations
-had a professional evaluation
-held a goat (seriously - my env't club and I toured an organic farm)
-watched Simpsons (the cults episode)
-killed Macbeth in 32 seconds
-evaluated and plotted Final exams/projects
-broke the photocopier and then fixed the photocopier
-danced a little
-cried a little

It's just Wednesday. Only 9 more class days to "enjoy" (then it's the most wonderful time of the year - Final Exams time).

Open Letter to the Young Ladies of this World

Dear young ladies,
I enjoy teaching. Being a high school teacher was my career aspiration and I am very passionate about it. I also like teaching adolescents. I know that some people think this is crazy but, a little crazy is all it takes.
Unfortunately, every spring, I am disappointed in the young ladies who walk through the corridors of all three institutes of learning I have worked in. For 6 springs, I have had to have uncomfortable and incredibly awkward conversations with my female students about boobs. Yep... boobs.
Please, when you are in a place of learning, make sure that your shirt fits you properly. Please avoid clothing where cleavage plans it's escape. This is not what I want to see when I tell you to turn to page 84 or when I have to stand by your desk to explain your assignment. It's weird and gross. Save those tops for, well... not school.
I don't enjoy those conversations. It's probably one of the worst things about my job. Ease my pain and wear modest tops.
Thanks,
Your very annoyed teacher

green

It's raining. I love that it's raining.
Last night, Trevor took me for a walk around our neighbourhood in the pouring rain (to test my new rain jacket of course). It was good to smell that fresh spring rain smell.
My yard is bright green now.
My little plants are sighing with relief.
I expect them to be bright and cheery when the sun comes back.
I expect to see my little seeds popping up.

It's crazy how exciting I find gardening. I always thought that my mom was a little wacky. Now, here I am, dreaming of rhubarb and sweet peas. I guess the apple doesn't fall that far from the tree...

...up to

Slogging my way through a sea of assignments for my class and then ones I teach.

Gleefully planting a pile of fleurs and waiting (not so patiently) to see them pop up.

Waiting (also not so patiently) for rain.

Curious about the Wii Fit sitting in it's box daring me to scrap the marking and play.

Catching up with Fergus as he bounds through our yard.

Missing out on frisbee to do homework.

Booking hostels for our upcoming German adventure.

Craving chocolate but settling for tea.

That's what I've been up to...

A New View

Today, our new windows were installed.
Fergus spent the day in the garage.
It's nice to look out from windows from today instead of 1951.

Crest Kid

I've always been a "Crest kid".
I've been a good brusher and I floss daily.

On one of my regular checkups, the dentist noticed a (gasp) cavity!

Goodness, I've never had a cavity before.

Today, I got my first filling.

Ow!

The freezing is weird and strange.

It hurts to open and close my mouth.

My bagel was a challenge!

I really am a big wimp!!!

Adventures of Student Jill con't

Biked to the university. Found my class just in time. Only, it wasn't my class... or my section of the class.

Found my right class and walked in late.

Desks were filled with young, young students.
I'm only 28.

When did 28 feel so old?

Just 3 other practicing teachers.
The rest are preparing for their internships.

Please, please - no group work.

Fascinating information. Stimulating discussion.
Had to find a way onto some WebCT portal for discussion.
Goodness, I have to add a post after every class.
What do I write about?
Making things up again therefore,
I must be back in university!

Student Jill

Today, I start the first of 10 classes that will qualify me to teach Special Ed. It's called an Inclusion Certificate. It will knock me up a pay bracket. More importantly, it will help me understand my highly entertaining modified students. Instead of always asking "why" when they say and do things, I'll be able to say "ah ha... that explains it". If all goes according to plan, I should be finishing this certificate in two years.

I'm really nervous about the whole back to school thing. I know, I teach; I should be good at the school thing. I was... kind of. I just remember a blur of notes and binders and crazy, make-work projects that had maybe some relevance to my career (maybe not).

15 night classes this spring. Wish me luck...

Celebration

Last spring, I was pretty down about leaving my inner-city high school. I liked my job there and I was sad to leave. It all worked out and I love my new bedroom community school.
I'm still on a temporary contract... that ends in June. An unknown autumn in the future.

This afternoon, I got a call offering me a continuing contract at the school I'm at. YEAH! This is job security in teacher-land. This is continuity in my work life. I'm sooo pumped!

LOL

I watched this twice. I laughed so hard I was crying at the end. (See April 4th post for why I cry at funny things.) Hope it works. Hope you laugh too.

Spring!

For most people, spring arrived a while ago. On Monday, we reached a high of ~27. I was in parent/teacher interviews all evening and missed it. My windowless classroom didn't help much either. The only way I knew it was hot was the scant amount of clothing on my students.
Today, I didn't have school. Today, I lazed and read in the sun with the Ferg and the husband.
Today, I watched the leaves of my big maple slowly uncurl.
Today, I counted tulips, daffodils and paperwhites popping up in my yard.
Today, Shiya and I got pedicures.

I hear that Calgary's getting a pile of snow. Guess I should enjoy my spring day all the more.

Hallmark is not me

It's birthday season for Trevor and I.
Every time we buy or make a card, I always try to think about something good to write. My brother usually comes up with great one-liners. I usually stick to "Happy B-day (insert name)! Hope you have a great (insert age)th year."
Blah.
Do you have anything better to write?

The Egg vs. RoboBaby

I teach Psych 30. It's developmental psychology where we look at how a person develops psychologically from conception until death. It's a pretty neat class. We just finished up the Infancy section.
While in Lanigan, I always had my kids carry "baby eggs". I know that they aren't very realistic but, they are fragile and you do have to handle them with care. Last year, in the 'hood, I skipped the Baby Egg part because so many of my students either were parents already, pregnant or had friends with babies. The egg seemed a little strange in that setting.
This year, my new school has the RoboBaby. She's the coolest thing ever. I program her and then, for 24 hours, she cries to be held, fed, burped or changed. Her diapers and bottle have chips in them that record the student's actions. I love it... I program her and then the kids look after her.
It's awesome except... she creeps me out. Her eyes don't blink and she makes weird breathing noises. I find myself talking to her when I hold her like she was a real baby.
I still don't think either of these is realistic but, I think it gets the idea of responsibility across.
What about you? Did you have to carry an egg in high school?

Weakness

When some people get angry, they yell or throw things. I know cold malice where people wait years to exact revenge. I know others who have biting tongues and cutting sarcasm to express their displeasure.
Contrary to all these powerful displays of anger, I cry.
Yes, I admit it, I am somewhat of a crybaby.
It's not just in anger either. I cry when I am sad (logically). I cry when I am embarrassed, frustrated, scared, disappointed or overwhelmed. Crying usually indicates that I am uncomfortable or stressed.
I also cry when I'm happy, during worship, proud, excited or surprised. (I'm also one of those saps who cries during movies, TV shows, books and long-distance commercials).

I get really frustrated that this is how I express emotion. My embarrassment usually just leads to more tears. It's annoying.

When it comes to fight or flight, I always flee. Usually, I have to talk myself into going and having a confrontation. No matter how good the pep talk though, it tends to involve tears. This doesn't always send the right message.

Today, I was a mess. Some colleagues and I experienced a difference of conduct. I was pretty angry with them. Rather then yelling or saying nasty things, what do I do? I cry. Blech... how weak and pathetic am I? We sorted it out. Still... they were in the wrong but, I'm the one who looked foolish.

Any other cry-babies out there?

Line please!

I'm in full rehearsal mode now...
Our show is Monday night. Today we hung lights, set up chairs and moved set.
Tomorrow is the big dress rehearsal.

It's kind of fun to direct plays. I like the process of watching the kids become their character. I like watching the words pop off the page and on to the stage. I love the stage high the kids get afterward. I love how proud they are of themselves.

I also love when it's over so I can have my life back again....

Sunbeams...

I love Easter holidays... no matter how early they may be.
Trevor and I hosted both sets of parents, my Grandma
and Jared for a tasty Easter dinner. (Our other
siblings were in exotic locales.)

The Wii just gets more and more fun!
One of my favorite things to do is to have
all my guests make Miis of themselves.

"It must be nice to be a teacher and get all this time off."
This is kind of funny. I'm spending most of
my holidays marking, prepping and
hanging out with my kids as they rehearse for our One Act Play.
All this "time off" is definitely unpaid.
Ah well...

Fergus loves sunbeams. He's a happy cat lazing
in the warm spring sun.

Dog Diary vs. Cat Diary

My friend Amanda sent this to me. It made me laugh hysterically. Makes me a wary of my little dictator cat.
( DOG DIARY )

8:00 am - Dog food! Myfavorite thing!

9:30 am - A car ride! My favorite thing!

9:40 am - A walk in the park! My favorite thing!

10:30 am - Got rubbed and petted! My favorite thing!

12:00 pm - Lunch! My favorite thing!

1:00 pm - Played in the yard! My favorite thing!

3:00 pm - Wagged my tail! My favorite thing!

5:00 pm - Milk bones! My favorite thing!

7:00 pm - Got to play ball! My favorite thing!

8:00 pm - Wow! Watched TV with the people! My favorite thing!

11:00 pm - Sleeping on the bed! My favorite thing!

(CAT DIARY) Day 983 of my captivity. My captors continue to taunt me with
bizarre little dangling objects. They dine lavishly on fresh meat, while the other inmates
and I are fed hash or some sort of dry nuggets. Although I make my contempt for the rations
perfectly clear, I nevertheless must eat something in order to keep up my strength.The
only thing that keeps me going is my dream of escape. In an attempt to disgust them, I once again
vomit on the carpet. Today I decapitated a mouse and dropped its headless body at their feet.
I had hoped this would strike fear into their hearts, since it clearly demonstrates what I am
capable of. However, they merely made condescending commentsabout what a 'good little hunter'
I am. There was some sort of assembly of their accomplices tonight. I was placed in solitary
confinement for the duration of the event. However, I could hear the noises and smell the food. I overheard that my confinement was due to the power of 'allergies.' I must learn what this means,
and how to use it to my advantage.This morning I was almost successful in an attempt
to assassinate one of my tormentors by weaving around his feet as hewas walking. I must try this
again tomorrow -- but at the top of the stairs. I am convinced that the other prisoners here are flunkies and snitches.The dog receives special privileges. He is regularly released - and seems to be more than willing to return. He is obviously retarded.The bird has got to be an informant. I observe him
communicate with the guards regularly. I am certain that he reports my every move. My captors
have arranged protective custody for him in an elevated cell, so he is safe.

For now...The Cat

Open Letter to My Favorite TV Shows

To: My Favorite TV Shows,

Remember when you'd come into my living room every week and tell me tales that kept me entertained and amused. Remember when I based some evenings entirely around you. Thursday night was especially enjoyable. I loved the drama and the comedy you brought into my home.

Last fall, you went away. Something about your creators not getting paid well. Fair enough. People have a right to strike. However, I was left with a void. For a few weeks, I found myself lost. I wondered what in the world I could watch while correcting papers. Reality TV tried to fill the void but, I found it was a little too melodramatic. I tried watching re-runs of you, my favorite shows but I found myself getting bored. You left a gap.

Gradually, I moved on. I spent more time on the phone. I paid better attention to my marking and worked much quicker. I spent quality time with my husband. Fergus got extra play time. I discovered LOL cats on the internet. Trevor and I started watching all 5 seasons of The Wire (our guilty pleasure). You were no longer a part of my life and I was okay with that!

Now, you are appearing in commercials while I'm watching the news. You're trying to return and draw me in to your completely superfluous plot lines. I'm not sure what to do. Should I welcome you back with open arms or cautiously check you out, one at a time. It just depends...

a hodge-podge

1) Today, we said good-bye to Shiya. She was here on a whirlwind, wedding planning jaunt. Here's a new pic of her and her man Marshall.

2) I went to the dentist today. I found out I have a cavity. I've never had a cavity in my life. I'm a vigorous flosser. I'm very sad. I'm also very afraid. May 8th, I get my first filling. How afraid should I be?


3) I had my 5th weigh and measure day at Curves. I've gained weight and lost inches. I'm trying to remind myself about muscle weighing more then fat but, it's still psychologically daunting.

4) Fergus is taking little adventures outside on his leash. He likes his little adventures when I'm there but, he's a whiny baby when we leave him alone for a few minutes.

5) My One-Act is looming. Just 2 more weeks until we take the stage.

Have a Good Wii-kend

Last Saturday we bought a Wii. We'd been talking about it for a bit. I actually searched for one most of November and December to surprise Trevor with for Christmas. Alas, it was elusive.
Now, we are busy making Miis, bowling, racing cows and hanging out in Mario Galaxies.

Our Special Needs class at school just got a Wii. I walked by the room to see one of our wheelchair girls batting in a baseball game. She's probably never played ball before. It's awesome.

I love my Wii. I am NOT a gamer but, I love the Wii. Congrats Nintendo for making something that really is "E" for Everyone.

P.S. If you have a friend code and want to share Miis, contact me on Facebook.

Busy = Good???

Last night, Trevor and I were out a function and I ran into an old acquaintance. As we shook hands, his greeting of choice was "Busy?" to which I responded, "Busy, busy!". "Good!" He said.

Really? Is busy good?

I thought about that driving home from work today. All day, I talked with colleagues who compared levels of busy-ness with each other. Oh, we don't do it directly but, we still do it. It sounds like this:
"How's it goin'?"
"Busy, I got those papers to correct."
"Really, I've got a lot going on too with the play and all."
"Yeah, the play. Almost as busy as I was with basketball..."

Why do we think that the busier we are, the better we are? Is it the association of busy-ness with importance?
Why can't we just all slow it down and enjoy?

Earthlings

Today, I watched Earthlings with my Environmental Club. The reason our group chose to watch such a controversial and shocking video was based on an ongoing discussion we keep having about where our food comes from. As a group of young people, I find it fascinating to see them question the status quo and ask really big questions.
Watching the movie really made me think about the sacrifice that went into my Subway sandwich or my plate of BBQ. How was this meat raised and killed? Was there humane treatment of an animal or was it just feed, cage, slaughter and kill?
If you're interested, check it out on YouTube (the complete movie is there on three parts). Be aware that it is a little disturbing.
Earthlings

Another adventure without the Mrs.

A couple of weeks ago, Trevor and some good buddies took off in my little Mazda to Fernie for some powder.







They found their powder and had a good time playing.

They made good time and were home by 10 pm. Their wives weren't up late worrying.







Trevor and Fergus napped much of the next day.



A few days later, Trevor's toes started to turn colour. His boots were a little too small. We think he'll lose his nails.




(That's what he gets for leaving his wife to go and play... just kidding... poor baby!)

Tag... you're it

I was tagged by Amanda

The Rules:

1. Pick up the nearest book (of at least 123 pages).

2. Open the book to page 123.

3. Find the fifth sentence.

4. Post the next three sentences.

5. Tag five people.

I thought I'd pick up my nicely autographed Stuart McLean book. Here goes:

"She was planning to do it after supper. But, before she could do that, the doorbell rang and there was Gerta - standing on the stoop with a wagon full of presents. Christmas cookies."

I tag:
Kim
Elenore
Crystal
Brandy
Wanda

Happy reading ladies!

Drat the blushing...

Yesterday, at convention, I went and saw Stuart McLean speak. (If you've never heard of Stuart McLean and the Vinyl Cafe then you are seriously missing out.) I took one or our Stuart McLean books for him to sign. Like a blushing ten-year-old, I asked for an autograph. He was very pleasant and gracious and signed. I'm sure that I was as red as a tomato.

On Moral Education

It's teacher convention time. Today, I chose to go to a seminar about teaching the Holocaust in the morning. In the afternoon, I went to a seminar and Character building and Moral Education.

I believe that all of our children need to be taught values, virtues and morals. I believe we need to teach our children to view history from the point of view of the people who lived it and understand why they made the decisions that they made. I think we need to teach our children to see differences and look at the positive benefits of living in a society where individual differences are embraced and tolerated rather then subdued and "shushed".

It was a good day. It was good to get out of my classroom and to think about what I do.

This is a quote that happened to be in both seminars I was in. I don't believe things like this happen by chance. There's a lesson for me to learn in the words of Chaim Grinott.

"I am a survivor of a concentration camp. My eyes saw what no man should witness: Gas chambers built my learned engineers, children poisoned by educated physicians, infants killed by trained nurses. Women and babies shot and buried by high school and college graduates. So I am suspicious of education.

My request is:

Help your students become more human. Your efforts should never produce learned monsters, skilled psychopaths, educated Eichmans. Reading, writing and arithmetic are important only if they serve to make children more humane."

Congratulations

My beautiful best friend Shiya and her Marshall got engaged on Saturday.
I take full credit for being the official matchmaker who invited Marshall to Canada Day fireworks while Shiya was visiting. I also cooked a darn good meal and hosted a fabulous fire-side conversation in order for them to "get to know" each other further.
After that, the ball was out of my court and Marshall did an amazing job of pursuing Shiya.
The wedding will be in August and I'm excited about my pretty dress!

See... for all you scoffers... match-making DOES work!

Succulent

Last night, we had an adventure in eating. We cooked some King Crab legs. We made some rice and a nice salad.
At first, we were a little nervous about the crustaceans in our dining room. Then, we tasted our first piece of sweet meat. I've never described meat as heavenly before but, these little pink guys were divine. I don't know who the first brave soul to eat a crab was but, the discovery is priceless.
Here are a few shots of our culinary journey. I also put in a shot of wrestling the Ferg (pink glove for protection). This is our every day, home from work routine. He's such an aggressive little guy!

Day of Love

I celebrated the Day of Love by wearing red and feeding my students cinnamon hearts.
Tonight, I will enjoy tacos and an episode of "The Wire" with my honey.
Nope, I don't expect roses today. I'd prefer them when they go on sale. I'd rather dine in our little home rather then try to brave the icy streets to eat in a crowded room with strangers.
We're just as happy and just as married as Hallmark advertises... we just don't have to make a big deal about it. (Besides, romance is more fun when it is spontaneous and not just an expectation because of the heart on the calendar.)
Yes, I suppose I am a Valentine's Scrooge. Bah Love Bug!

Why I'm refusing to cook

On Tuesday, at Care Group, Trevor and some guys decided to go skiing for the week-end. Not some day trip to the local hills but, to drive all the way to BC for some powder. The guys took off on Thursday after work and will be home sometime tonight. Another Trevor adventure.
The jealous part of me was mad. However, I realize that I should be a "good wife" and encourage my husband to have fun boy adventures. The rest of me is sad and a little lonely. It didn't help that I watched P.S. I Love You with a friend last night and balled my eyes out.
I refuse to cook for myself. I've been eating subs and pitas. Last night, before the movie, my friend and I dined at Wok Box. Tonight, my parents are taking me out for supper.
I know I'm being a baby but... I really hate cooking for just me. I had enough of that the 4 years I lived in Lanigan.

I've come to realize...

Stolen from 5 a 7

1. I've come to realize that my butt: still looks good in jeans but, swimsuits....?

2. I've come to realize that when I talk: I use my hands a lot.

3. I've come to realize that I need: to laugh often!

4. I've come to realize that I've lost: my black and white views of the world.

5. I've come to realize that I hate it when: kids overuse the word "got" in assignments.

6. I've come to realize that I have a crush on: Disney's Robin Hood... yes he's a fox but...

7. I've come to realize that the last time I cried was: a few days ago... I'm still a cry baby!

8. I've come to realize that my cell phone is: REALLY old!

9. I've come to realize that when I wake up in the morning: I brush my cat. Then, I stand in front of the mirror and zone out.

10. I've come to realize that before I go to sleep at night I: need to take a shower.

11. I've come to realize that when I get on Facebook: I'm all about the Scrabulous application and pictures.

12. I've come to realize that today I will: pick my Grandma up from the airport late at night!

13. I've come to realize that I really want to: have the security of a permanent contract. I really miss that!

14. I've come to realize love: is what makes my world go 'round.

15. I've come to realize my best guy friend: is equally as busy as I am and lives too far away.

16. I've come to realize my best girl friend: is in the middle of a sweet, whirlwind romance.

What have you realized lately?

A Break

I have a confession: I have been awfully surly lately. Downright morose and dour. Little Miss Negative. This is not really my normal demeanor. A combination of cold weather (cold is an understatement) and work blahs have left my chipper self craving some serious hibernation time.
It was a nasty way to start Semester 2. Nothing like a grumpy teacher to make you excited about a Psych class.
Today, I'm working on an attitude adjustment. The weather let up and it's been a much better day. I watched the sun come up on the way to work this morning. It was good to see daylight before I sequestered myself into my windowless classroom. I giggled with my kids and we joked around a bit. Things are looking better.
Here's a picture of a little guy who spends most of his waking life trying to play with me. He's pretty sweet!

Safe

The RCMP closed the highways. I chose to go home with a friend. We made it and we're safe and sound. I appreciate her All-Wheel Drive and her relaxed driving. We just went slow in zero visibility. I'm glad that I'm not spending the night at school.
Tomorrow, it's supposed to be -50 C with the wind chill. The buses probably won't be running. Teachers are still expected to be at school. ???? It'll be a cold and lonely start to Semester Two.

Sarcan Woes

I want to be a good citizen. I want to recycle well. I love my compost. I'm running the environment club at school. Then why do I find it so icky to go through our recycling. I don't like touching the dusty bottles. I don't like the way my fingers feel afterwards. I don't like the smell. Yes, we rinse well before adding to our buckets but still... there is a smell.
Maybe I'll give this job to my wonderful husband....

Grandma

My Grandpa passed away in September. It was a crazy and awful time. His death was really hard on my family.
My Grandma is alone now. She's pretty tough and she never complains but, I think she's lonely. I can't begin to imagine what it would like to lose your husband of over 55 years. She's a brave lady.
Tonight, Trevor and I took her for supper. Her birthday and anniversary are right around this time. She was telling me how she was sad that she never received roses on her anniversary. I was sad for her.
I think that I need to make it a priority to spend some quality Grandma time.

29

We've been friends for 23 years. Best friends for about 20 years. I can't believe I still can't get her actual birthday right. It's weird because, I know so many other birthdays of people I'm not as close to.
Facebook didn't help either. It's ignoring her.
I love you Shiya! Happy 29th B-day! Hope Victoria gets some sun!

Priorities

Our church has started Quest 2008. This is a church prepared Small Group Guide, devos and sermons that are all related to the same theme. This year's theme is: A Quest for Godliness.
I'm kind of a slacker when it comes to training for godliness. I like to take the easy route and then, I wonder why I get bored and I don't feel like I'm actually doing anything worthwhile. I'm trying to re-evaluate how best to do daily devotions. I used to be a read a chapter of the Old Testament and then a chapter of the New Testament every night kind of girl. While that was sometimes valuable, other times I skim-read just to get it done... kind of like a duty. Obviously, that wasn't very good for me.
This is my question: what do you do to connect with God on a daily basis?

Rattled

Our next-door neighbour's house was broken into the other night. Trevor and I were both home but, we didn't hear or see anything. It's a little unsettling.
We picked this area of our fair city because it's such a good area. I'm really sad that I don't feel as safe in my home.

In Case Of Emergency

I had a bag phone when I was in university. It plugged into the cigarette lighter of my red Mustang. I used it if I got stuck (which, in a Mustang, happens) or if I was going to be really late and knew my Mom would be worried.
When I first started my job in Lanigan, my parents bought me this sweet NOKIA cell phone. I bought pay as you go cards and, when my newer, silver Mustang (I know... 2 Mustangs... I was begging to be stuck) was in the ditch, I always had a way of letting someone know.
I still have that little NOKIA. It's over 6 years old. It's still on the pay-as-you-go plan.
That means that (be prepared for a shock) I DON'T CARRY A CELL PHONE on my person... everywhere I go.

I was trying to explain this to my students today. They looked at me like I was from another planet. I felt like a 80 something year old lady trying to explain how "nifty" my old gramophone was.

Maybe I'm "outta touch"...

Back at it...

Jolted awake at 6:17 AM.
Canada AM and Raisin Bran.
27 minutes in my cute little Mazda 3 rocking out with my IPOD (thanks to a new FM Transmitter)
Single pages when I wanted double sides in the photocopying room.
3 fast-paced, nose to the grindstone classes.
1/2 hour of supervising grade 9s eat. (It's not pleasant).
Scarfing lunch before P4. (Really... I packed this?)
2 Psych 20 classes - teaching cults... really interesting!
1 1/2 hours of prep.
33 minutes of fighting traffic on the way home. (The East end is crazy.)
1 lap + 15 machines at Curves.
1 attention starved cat's kisses and some play time.
1 bowl of stew.
Missing Trevor (away on a business trip).
Later, marking, Care Group prep and baking cookies.

I love the do nothing days of Christmas break. However, it's kind of nice to sink back into a routine. It was good to see my students. It was good to have some structure to my day.

Cross-country Ski Trip

For Christmas, Trevor's parents took the whole family to a provincial park for an intense weekend of gaming and cross-country skiing. It was a beautiful weekend. The conditions were perfect. Here are some highlights from our trip.

Christmas 2007

Happily Married - this is our 5th Christmas together.

The DS addicts - I think Fergus likes the fast moving Mario Karts.

The wee Christmas maniac. He personally inspected all gift bags while they were under the tree.

My lovely new sister-in-law.

Boys in stripes.

Mom with her new pet worms. Good thing she's a good sport!

Hope you had a Merry Christmas too!

Freedom

It's the most wonderful time of year!

It's the hap-happiest season of all!

(School's out today. I think it's even better when you're a teacher!)

worm poop

Today, I bought a pile of worm poop (and worms). Actually, I bought two piles (one for my Mom as a Christmas gift).
Why? you ask. Good question.
Vermicomposting.
These crazy red wigglers will eat all my kitchen scraps (tea bags, coffee grinds, banana peels, onion skin, etc.) and then, they will create marvelous soil for my flower garden. (Some people pay big bucks for this kind of nutrient laden organic compost to add to their plants.)
My outdoor compost is frozen and I wanted an alternative.
If you're interested, you can check out: garbagedelight

P.S. Bev - if you're reading this, please don't tell my mom. I'd like it to be a surprise for Christmas. Thanks!