C.R.A.P.

I suppose I'm more of a tomboy than I thought. I found this quiz over at Heidi's blog. Next thing you know I'll be farting and scratching my butt in public. I guess not all guys do that but oh no, I'm a tomboy girlie girl, not a girlie girl tomboy.

You Are 32% Girly

You are a pretty hardcore tomboy, and a very free spirit. Gender roles be dammed, you like to do things your way.

How Girly Are You?

Reflecting

Well this my final post for the NaBloPoMo 2008. I have to say that I very much enjoyed doing this although it will be nice not to have the pressure of having to write everyday. I have made some great new friends and at the same time shared more about myself with others. So as this Thanksgiving holiday ends I am thankful and grateful for a happy and delightful NaBloPoMo time. I look forward to continuing our blogging friendships.

Ha Ha Very Funny...

Apparently this is my rapper name.

Your Rapper Name Is...

Freaky Millionaire

What's Your Rapper Name?

Totally appropriate considering all the spending I did this weekend.

Almost Didn't Make It

Hello everyone!!! I almost didn't make it today. Last night I spent the night at my sister's in anticipation of today's shopping day. We woke up at 3:30 and headed to JC Penny. There was a Little Miss Sunshine stuffed pillow/animal. Sadly, they didn't have any so I almost left empty handed. I managed to buy 3 pairs of shoes. I'm so excited about them.

Our next stop was Michaels. I own a Cricut machine and they had many things on sale I needed. Then I went ahead and spent a BUNCH of money there. Two hours there can total up to lots. And it doesn't help that I shopped with my sister. She's as compulsive as I am. I bought gifts for my co-workers, students, and friends. I am so eager to give them away.

Our final stop was Target at which I spent a BUNCH of money also. I don't need to go into detail but I am a DVDaholic so I bought many movies. It was also at Target that I decided to sell out...I bought something I said I would never, ever own or buy. I bought a rolling cart. You know...the ones that teachers use to haul their crap. YUCK!!! But with the holiday season coming up it always comes in handy. Yeah, yeah, Jen...I bought one. We made it back to my sister's house at about 10:30.

After some breakfast at home we headed back out to our final destination, Hobby Lobby. I was actually looking for left over fall stuff but it was all sold out. Needless to say I still managed to buy some Christmas items.

The rest of the day I spent at my sister's taking a nap, finishing my party invitations, playing the Wii with my nephew, watching the Spurs win and making smores. My sister and her husband have a fire pit so we sat outside talking and bundling up. Horacio, Vanessa and Cruz made out there as well as a couple of my sister's friends.

I must say that my Thanksgiving holiday has been absolutely amazing!

Yummy, Yummy, Gobble Turkey

I had a fun and witty post but then the internet booted me and I lost the whole thing because it hadn't saved any of it. So instead I'm keeping it simple. Happy Thanksgiving everyone!!! Enjoy the delicious food and the company of family and friends. Remember to be thankful for all great things in life. I guess we should be thankful for all things not great too. Without them we would never know difference between great and not great.

Here's to gaining a pound or two over the next few days!!!!

My Sports

I can't write a post on Thanksgiving and not mention the Dallas Cowboys' annual game. I love sports. So I will be glued to the TV watching the Cowboys and Tony Romo hopefully beat the Seahawks.

Yesterday the Spurs beat the Chicago Bulls, which isn't a huge deal but they did have the number one draft pick, Derrick Rose. The Spurs held him to only 10 points. Ginobili scored 15 points and had 4 assists in just 18 minutes. He also brings so much energy to the team that they all start playing better. And my hottie, Ime Udoka , also had 8 points, two of which were three pointers. And to think that Tony Parker isn't back yet. I have to say that I am very impressed with all the new guys and former players that are now getting more playing time. Yay Spurs! Great game yesterday and hope you have a great game tomorrow.



Yeah I know. I'm obsessed with Manu. I like to think of it as true love. But hey, he was out for 12 games. I have lost time to make up!!! Too bad they don't have pictures of Ime Udoka.

Nappy Nap

Today after our half day release I headed home for a nice. long nap. I know that most of you might be thinking: "Doesn't she have more important things to do?" The obvious answer is no. I'm not married and I don't have any children so I take good care of myself. Hence, my mission to take a nap today.

So you ask: "Are you well rested?" The answer is a big NO. My two nephews, Michael and Matthew, spent the night last night. Matthew actually went to school with Jen and I today. Anyway, when I got home I got into my comfortable clothes and went straight to bed actually thinking that my nephews would let me sleep. But noooo...they were yelling, playing, and watching TV loudly. After asking them to be a little more quiet I somewhat drifted off to sleep. However, about 10 minutes later Vanessa, Cruz and Horacio came over. What's a girl to do? I'm a good nina, so I played with Horacio. I actually laid him next to me trying to get him to sleep but he wasn't having it. So I had to get up and play with him.

So no nap...just me still tired and hanging out with my family. I guess that's still a plus. Oh yeah...and the Spurs are playing. Woo hoo! I guess my second wind just kicked in!!!

Looking forward to...

There are several things I am looking forward to this coming weekend. Tomorrow is a half day and I am thrilled. Here is a quick reference of things I will do over the weekend.

• Lord of the Rings Trilogy on TNT
• Elf is on three days straight on USA
• Turkey and stuffing and my mom's chile con queso
• The Macy's Thanksgiving Parade
• No work for four days
• Hanging out with family
• Baking cookies
• Dinner dates
• Sleeping in late
• Watching Manu and the Spurs
  

MANU GINOBILI!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I haven't written a post on my man Manu Ginobili in a very long time. For those of you who just started reading my blog I am a HUGE San Antonio Spurs fan. My favorite player is Manu Ginobili. (Click on his name for our love story. You can also click on his name under my label cloud for everything Manu.) Just so y'all get a picture I'll describe how I keep in touch with the Spurs.

1. I print their entire schedule and keep track of ALL wins and losses.
2. I subscribe to their texts. They text me the score after all games and any Spurs related informations such as trades.
3. I get emails as well.
4. I cut out clippings and read all articles in newspapers and online.
5. I talk, talk, talk about the Spurs whenever I have the chance. (Just ask Jen.)

Anyway, during the summer olympics Manu got hurt. He had surgery and has missed the first 12 games of the season. Needless to say that the Spurs didn't get off to a great start. Then about 2 weeks ago Tony Parker got hurt. It seemed our world was collapsing. However, the new guys they've acquired and some former players have been able to step it up. And Timmy has been working overtime to keep them afloat.

So I'd like to welcome my man, Manu, back. He's done so well so far. Oh honey...I'm so glad to see you. You have been missed dearly.

Update: Manu helps the Spurs win!!! He scored 12 points. Yay, babe!

Things I'm Happy About

I have a lot to be happy about. I had a great weekend and I'm thinking this week will be just as great!

• Jen and I worked on my invitations. I am almost done and will post the final pictures. They look fabulous! Thanks, Jen.
  
• The Spurs beat Utah on Friday. And they won by a lot. GO SPURS GO!!!
• I met a new friend. We have tons of fun when we talk.
• I have my bathroom back and all to myself. Yay!!!
• Twilight had a great opening weekend so now for sure there will be a New Moon movie.
• Dallas Cowboys win again. Hope they do well for their Thanksgiving game.
  
• Just two and a half days of work this week.
  
• And I'm so lucky to have such kind and supportive blogging friends. Y'all had such encouraging and kind words. Thanks for that.

So I'm definitely looking forward to this week and this coming weekend. Turkey, turkey and more turkey. Have a great week everyone!!!

Go Ahead

Yay!!! New Moon will be made into a movie. I can't wait...

A Little Sad

I know many people feel strongly against others airing their dirty laundry online. However, I'm the kind of person that HATES to keep things inside. And since I've come to think of many of you as friends, well I thought I would share this bit of my personal life. Also, in case I'm not too witty or funny in the upcoming days y'all will know why.
Almost two months ago I joined a group online. Not at all with the intention of finding love or even for dating. I did it to find people that had stuff in common with me and find some online friends. This is why I didn't join those online match-making sites. I honestly wasn't looking for a man.
A few days later I came across a few people that I wasn't sure where they lived. Texas is a huge state so I always like to learn about new places. So I started communicating with a man. (Yeah, yeah, I know that I should have known that long distance relationships don't work.) At first it was very friendly but then things just clicked and it became more. I want to spare everyone all the details (except Jen, sorry), but I'm afraid things have not gone well lately. And so now I'm a little bit sad about it.
But I have to say...and I've been meaning to comment on Happy Fun Pants' blog that I'm still hopelessly optimistic. Not about this particular man but in general. If we lost all hope what would we be left with? My advice to anyone wanting to try online dating is to go for it.
So please bare with me if I'm not myself for a few days. But ya know I thrive and live off of humor. It's me. And it's sort of my medicine. And I think it's time I start looking into other hobbies and possibly volunteering my time. I've actually already looked into a couple of places so I should just make the call.
Thanks y'all for listening and I can't wait to be myself again.

Dad, I didn't even put on any make-up

Today I took a..."sick day". Actually I do have a sore throat but I'm not that sick. Anyway, since I was taking an "I love vampires" day off I figured I would get my registration sticker renewed. Last year my dad took me on the military base to do. He is a civilian that works on base so he has access. I remember clearly that when I took a half day from school to go last year that I was sick. I suffer from migraines and I had one that day. Even though I was so sick I still managed to check out the hottie military men. So this year when I was planning to go on base for my sticker I knew I wanted to look presentable.
This morning he asked if we could go to the one off base because he had to run to the bank before and the bank is right by the county office. Sooo...I dressed way down and didn't even wear make-up. Then when we are about to leave my dad pulls the switch-a-roo. To my horror he wants to go to the one on base after all. So I point out that I didn't even wear make-up and I dressed too comfortable. In the end I decided to just go with the flow and go as I was.
FYI: military men are so HOT!!! Even an average looking guy is hotter in a uniform. I did indeed get my registration sticker and saw a handful of hotties all in a 30 minutes span. That's right! It took only 3o minutes to drive there get my sticker and drive back home.

Yay dad, yay military men, yay registration sticker!!!

Loved It!!!

I just wanted to let everyone know that I loved Twilight. Of course the book is better but I very much enjoyed the movie. And to tell you the truth I usually like the books better than most movies. So I highly recommend that all of you go out and watch Twilight.

Venti Coffee from Starbucks

I am sooo ready for the midnight showing of Twilight today. After our long day (Jen and I had to go to an extra Aspiring Assistant Principals' Academy meeting) Jen ran me by Starbucks for a Venti coffee. I figured I needed all the caffeine I could get my hands on. I don't want to fall asleep or get tired at all. So I'll tell y'all all about it tomorrow.

I'm In

My niece did in fact secure Twilight movie tickets for us for the midnight showing. I'm so excited. And I've been planning my day off in honor of my love, Edward the vampire, so I won't have to go to work on Friday. I do have a long day tomorrow but I've been waiting for this day for a long time so I know I'll manage to make it.

You Smell Like a Baby

Again, no secret that I have the best class this year. I have a handful of kids that LOVE to hug me. Today as I was working in a small group one of my little girls said: "Miss G. you smell...(big sniff) you smell...like a baby." WHAT??? The surprising thing is that this is not the first time I've heard that. I've had friends in high school mention that. I always put it off as how my mom did my laundry. But then I got to college and obviously I did my own laundry. I can't say that my laundry skills even come close to my mom's so when my friend, Venessa, laughed about it too I started to wonder why.

As I shared this story with Jen on the drive home she said that she can see what they are talking about. Me: "You think I smell like a baby?" Jen: "Maybe not a baby but you do have a distinct smell. In a good way." Hmmm....I sure am glad that it's in a good way.

Just for the record: I find it strange that a girl that doesn't think she wants kids would smell none other than like a baby. How ironic!!!

Crazy Girl Loves Her Markers

Yeah, yeah, yeah these markers have been around forever but I'm in love with them. They are those thin paper mate markers. Last year I bought some and graded papers with them. I love them because they don't bleed through the paper.

Before continuing with my story I have to say that I still use the old fashioned calendars. The ones you have to write in. I do not have a Blackberry, IPhone, or Palm Pilot. I have a calendar on my cell phone but I use it to remind me to watch tv shows and Spurs games. I am a very colorful person. I actually color code things in my calendar. I have a color for personal stuff, PTA stuff, work stuff, classroom stuff, health and recreation, and AP stuff. I also write down what I've worn each day and since Jen and I carpool I keep track of that because I would hate for Jen to drive more than me. I want to be completely fair.

On Saturday I bought a pack of 8 markers. I really wanted a red marker but this pack didn't have one. Of course I got it anyway. I came home happy because now I had 8 colors. (Two of them I already had.)

Jen so graciously took me to make a payment at Lane Bryant. I ran across the shopping mall to Target because I needed to buy ink. I also had to by a small pencil case so I could carry my markers around in my purse. While in the pen/pencil isle at Target I thought they didn't have any of those markers. Honestly, all I wanted was a red one but no...Jen went and found me a pack of 50. Kidding it was a pack of 16. Now remember that I just bought 8 on Saturday. Yet I bought this pack too because there were even more colors I didn't have. I didn't find a pencil case, instead I bought a make-up purse that will fit in my regular purse. So now I have 16 new markers to carry in my purse, 8 to leave at school for when I grade and write notes, and 2 for my house.

I love paper mate markers!!!

Hotties

I know, I know...I'm probably being really shallow right now but the following athletes are just too damn HOT. I can't say I think many men are hot but here are a few. And these are just athletes.

• Ime Udoka (my second favorite HOT athlete)
  
• Brady Quinn
• David Beckham (not my favorite but HOT)
• Tom Brady
• Manu Ginobili (in his own right,my number 1 guy)
• Reggie Bush
• Andruw Jones
• Chipper Jones
  

Work in Progress

I've been talking about how I am planning my birthday party and the invitations I'm making. I've finally put parts of them together. I am far from finishing. For sure I will post the finished products, but I'm excited to show y'all what I have. I'm making about 70 of them so it's rather time consuming. Also, I'm making a few different versions.

Here they are...

Extra Family Night

This week we will have an extra family night. We are celebrating my niece's birthday from last Sunday and my brother's birthday today. Usually family night is on Wednesday nights. My sister and nephews come have dinner and have nice conversation. My niece and her boyfriend and nephew also come if she doesn't have to work. My other sister comes once in a while with her husband and my niece when she doesn't work. I don't exactly have a big house so it can get crowded. And we are a loud family too so the noise is VERY loud. But in the end, I remember that this is exactly why I moved back home. Family is so important and I love to hang out with them.

Happy Birthday Brother!

Happy Birthday to my little brother. He turns 28 today. I don't have many pictures of him so I'll have to reuse the one on Michael's birthday page because brother is in that one.

Happy Birthday Brother!

First Time

I just saw for the first time the Hershey's Kisses "We Wish You a Merry Christmas" commercial. Y'all know the one where they seem like bells. I can't believe this holiday season is almost here. I love going into stores now because of all the Christmas decorations.

Oh Christmas Tree, Oh Christmas Tree

You Are a Tree

You love every part of the holidays, down to the candy canes and stockings. And you're goofy enough to put a Christmas tree ornament on your tree!

What Christmas Ornament Are You?

LAZY Saturday

Today has been such a lazy day for me. I just took a shower and have put my pj's on. I can't wait to do nothing but watch t.v., work on my invitations, and lay down. I did have breakfast with my dad and brother for my brother's birthday. And I went to Wal-mart to get some necessities, but other than that nothing. Yay!

35 minutes left

Today I had dinner and coffee with Jen. She reminded me a few times not to forget to write my post today. I now have exactly 30 minutes. I'll keep this short because I am so tired.

Random thoughts of the week:

• I've gotten about halfway through making my birthday invitations.
  
• Twilight comes out in less than a week.
• The Spurs are sort of back on track.
• So sad my high school football team lost yesterday.
• Fuddruckers' fries and cheese sauce are the best.
• I miss San Antonio.
• I think I really am a great teacher.
• Sometimes putting all your eggs in one basket pays off.
• Cupcakes rule!
• Tony Romo is back this week.
  
• I can't wait until next week (wink, wink sweetie)
  

Thankful Thursday

I know everyone has been writing lists but right now I'm so thankful for additional family. My niece's boyfriend was willing to go to my high school's football game with me because I didn't have anyone else to go with. I think of him as family. I was too tired to go and he felt it was too cold to take my baby nephew out (his son). Anyway, he's been texting me the score. I'm thankful we are a close family and that he is comfortable enough with me to do that.

I try to do a nice thing and this is what I get.

I found out a few days ago that because I was poked twice and was unsuccessful that I can't give blood until December 27th. What??? That means that I will not be able to meet my mission of donating blood this month. I so sad about that. I'm not even going to be in town on December 27th. What a bummer!

Birthday Invitations

I've managed to guilt Jen into offering to help me make my birthday invitations. Kidding! Jen would have offered anyway. I asked Jen to help me after school because I have a much better working space there. We met in my classroom. Unfortunately I was called into a parent conference (yes, after school) so I went to that. As I was leaving the classroom Jen shouted: "You want me to get started?" My response: "No, Jen."
When I came back I found Jen wasting time on my computer. Kidding! I told her not to do anything. I showed Jen my blueprints for the different types of invitations. A few seemed a little complicated so she was nervous. I gave her a choice of things she could help me with. I sort of chuckled because she gave me a reluctant look. Almost like she was afraid to touch anything. Then Jen says: "I'm afraid to mess it up. You are so particular and I don't want to mess up your invitations." I have to thank Jen for putting it so nicely. I am particular. My family would say I want it my way all the time. I was able to give Jen a job she was comfortable with...tracing a shape so that I can then cut it. These are the jobs Jen turned down: gluing down the paper on the card and cutting out what she traced. Jen went on to give me suggestions of people who would be great at helping me because they also are detailed and particular. Oh and here are some of Jen's questions: "How many do you want to make? and When do you want to send these out?"
Well guess what Jennifer? You are stuck helping me. And...I thank you so much.

What Did You Say?

Everyone at school has heard me go on and on for the past 3 weeks about how I couldn't hear them out of my left ear. It was so embarrassing because I kept asking my students to repeat themselves over and over. It didn't get too bad until today. I woke up this morning and couldn't hear at all. Needless to say that my condition didn't improve by lunchtime. During my prep time I made it to our school nurse. I had perfect timing because she was screening students' hearing so she checked mine. I think that the kids there (who happened to be second graders) were laughing because she put the headphones on my ears. I have to say that I was confused and slightly alarmed when I couldn't hear out of my right ear when she tested it and I could hear out of my left ear. I can't really explain what happened there. She went on to say that I didn't have great hearing. She asked me to go back after I visited the doctor just to make sure.

At lunch I called a doctor's office to see if I could get an appointment. I had to see the nurse practitioner if I wanted to see someone today. I had heard great things about this doctor and her practice from many co-workers. However, I must say that it exceeded my expectations more than possible. The nurse practitioner was knowledgeable and excellent. She paid attention to what I said and asked some great questions. I can tell that she sincerely cares about her patients' health. I will definitely be back to see her or any doctor there. Oh yeah...um...while at the doctor's they sort of removed the earwax from my left ear. I kinda thought that's what it was. I was worried (and embarrassed) because I'd heard horror stories about people's wax. To my relief it wasn't that bad but it was still really gross. I would've taken a picture but...well I didn't want to gross anyone out. Now I can hear from my "new" ear so much better.

I must also mention that me visiting the doctor was possible because of a few people. First, my fellow second grade teacher referred me to this office and offered to take my class. In the end it was Jen that came to the rescue. She also offered to take my class during her prep time. Since Jen has done a few lessons for my class (and they are a wonderful bunch) I let Jen take them. My class also loves Jen. Oh and I can't forget my co-teacher. She took them for about 30 minutes.

Random Randomness

I have to say that my three-day Veteran's Day weekend went extremely well. I did get to relax, which was very important. And now that I have a chance to revisit my to-do list from this past weekend I notice that indeed I did everything I was planning to do.
I was not anticipating my nephews coming over to spend the day with us. My sister is also a teacher but she had to work. I work for one district, she for another, and my nephews go to school in a different district. Sadly, my sister is the only one that had to work. I was glad to have my nephews come because they own a Wii. This brings me to my first random thought: Why do we call the letter "W" a double u? Doesn't it look more like a double v. Decide for yourself... uu or vv. That's exactly what I think. Unfortunately one of the remotes to the Wii didn't work so Michael brought his Guitar Hero game and that's what we played.

My biggest task of course was cleaning up my bedroom. As embarrassing as this is to admit it was bit dusty and messy. Here is my second random thought: How do you know you have too many magazine subscriptions? When you still have magazines to read from March and April. I've decided to cancel some of my subscriptions because of this, but I still have quite a few. Mission accomplished and I cleaned, organized, and vacuumed my room. Now I can feel more at peace and get things done. I always feel better when my house is clean.

Since yesterday was my niece's birthday, my brother treated her to Cici's. I treated my nephews since they were with us. It was really nice because it was all of us there. Final random point: Why do people own cell phones if they never answer them? Some people are notorious for never answering. How frustrating is that? Well Vanessa is guilty of never answering. Poor Cruz, her boyfriend, because then I call or text him and he has to answer. Oh well!

I Would Like to Thank...

I would like to thank my new blog friend, Amy, for giving me the "I Love Your Blog" Award. It's nice to know that someone other than Jen is reading my blog. You can read Amy's blog, Keeping up with the Schultz Family, here.

Here are the Rules:

1. The winner can put the logo on his/her blog.
2. Link the person from whom you received your award.
3. Nominate at least seven other blogs
4. Put links of those blogs on yours, and
5. Leave a message on the blogs that you've nominated!

I'm awarding the I Love Your Blog award to...

1. Anne at: From the Mixed Up Files of Happy Fun Pants
2. Heidi at: Stuck in the Seatbelt
3. I owe 5 awards...sorry I don't have that many blogging friends and the ones I do have, have already been awarded. I promise to keep looking.

What's Wrong with Me?

It's no secret that I've applied at Starbucks twice. I'm wondering why they don't hire me. I love their coffee. (I'm currently writing this post here at Starbucks.) I have bought many cute Starbucks stuffed animals. Also, I have bought many people gift cards from here. And if I'm qualified enough to be an assistant principal then I'm thinking I'm qualified enough to work at Starbucks. So what's the deal Starbucks? Why don't you want me? But then again...I never do follow up after they ask me to. Maybe the third time's the charm!

Happy Birthday, Baby

Today my niece, Vanessa, turns 19. Since I was 10 when Vanessa was born and she lived with us we grew up more like sisters. She's my partner in crime and one of my soul mates.

Happy Birthday, Baby! Have a great day!

This Weekend

Thankfully the district I work for gave us Veteran's Day off. So this weekend I have a three-day weekend. I have some major things I'd like to accomplish this weekend. And I have a few birthdays to celebrate.

Things Patty is doing this three-day weekend:

• Clean up and organize my bedroom: How did this mess even happen?
  

• Watch football, football, and more football: At least the Cowboys can't lose this weekend.

• Go to church and pray for the health of the San Antonio Spurs: Notice I'm not praying for them to win. It'll be if it's meant to but I do want them to be healthy.

• Attend various birthday parties for my twin cousins and niece: Yummy cake and pizza. I love birthdays!
  

• Hang out with Jen: Since we're off on Monday we have to celebrate it somehow.
  

• SLEEP, SLEEP, and more SLEEP: I'm so tired...

• Hopefully something unexpected: Not sure what but I hope something spontaneous and unexpected happens...in a good way.

• Reflect and remember all who are currently in or have served in our Armed Forces: This is, after all, why we have a three-day weekend.
  

So here's to a Happy Veteran's Day weekend, everyone!!!

FYI

I wanted to mention that my famous cousin and his band Sleepercar are currently on tour with Coldplay. How exciting is that? I'm so proud of him.

Not Much Going on Here

I can't say that much occurred today. This evening I am heading to a my alma mater's high school football game to watch them play our rival school. If they win (and they are favored) they will complete their second undefeated regular season in a row. It's exciting because even though the school is not in the best area or the kids don't have a lot of things they have come together through this football program. Some of these kids will never go to college much less play football for a college or professionally, but they will always have the memory of the past two years. I'm just so proud that my barrio peeps are kicking a**.

On a completely different note. I wanted to show y'all a picture of my bruise that won't go away. I was intending to try to donate blood tomorrow but after my bruise failed to get better I decided to postpone it. I don't think they'd let me if they saw it.

Sweetest TV Couple

I have to say that the sweetest tv couple are Jim and Pam of The Office. They are just too cute together. We can all only wish to be as cute as them.

3 in a row

Today was our bi-annual parent-teacher conference day. Students are dismissed at 12:15 and then from 1 - 6 we meet with parents to discuss report cards and any concerns or questions. For the third straight year I have had very successful and easy-flowing conferences. It's no secret that this year has been my best year of teaching. The students are amazing, almost perfect. I'm co-teaching with a great teacher. I also have a student intern, which up to now I didn't think I would be a great example. It was actually Jen that convinced me to go for it. I've explained to Jen that I feel like I finally have a handle on teaching second grade so next year I'll rock it. I can't explain it. All the pieces have come together. And I suppose that my life outside of school is going great so it carries over into the classroom.
As my co-teacher and I met with every parent we talked about how our class is sweet, supportive, kind, helpful and well behaved. And it wasn't until I said it out loud that I realized I didn't have any behavior issues. Not one time this year has a student told on another. WHAT'S THIS??? They all actually like each other? It's true. I believe I'm currently teaching the perfect class. And they come with perfect, understanding parents.

What a great year!!!!

Oh and how cute is it that one of my parents brought me a candy apple. I've never had a candy green apple. It's delicious. It took me forever to figure out how to take my first bite.

You Donated Blood? Like a Vampire?

This year I have taken to teaching writing through writer's workshop. The main component of writer's workshop is that students pick what they write about. Then through mini-lessons you teach about different language arts topics. Today the topic was apostrophes. I read a book called Alfie the Apostrophe aloud. Then after the book we talked about when you should use apostrophes in your writing. We talked about possessives and contractions. Then the students gave me examples of them, which I wrote on a chart tablet for future reference. I'm not sure how but at some point one of my students pointed to the huge, deep purple bruise on my arm. I have a very caring class so she asked what happened. Trying to be quick so that I could get back to the lesson (a co-worker came in to watch me do writer's workshop so I was trying to be good). I said: "Oh, I tried to donate blood on Saturday." This comment opened the flood gate to more comments and questions. Some kids made faces like they were horrified. Some kids were confused. And several raised their hands ready to share some story or ask a question. I tried very hard to get back to the lesson but they were too concerned with my bruise. Then one boy, who happens to be my favorite, (shhh don't tell anyone) said: "You donated blood? Like a vampire?" Well we all cracked up laughing and needless to say that I was able to get back to my lesson.
After my lesson was done and my fellow second grade teacher was gone I did talk a little about the importance of donating blood. Most were relieved to know that kids can't donate blood and that my bruise didn't hurt.
But this little boy, my favorite, has said many a funny things. The most hilarious was when he said: "Miss G. I can't find my balls." WHAT??? He meant he couldn't find the tennis balls that go on the legs of his chair.

Free Coffee

Apparently if you voted today you got a tall cup of coffee from Starbucks. Jen, her hubby and I made it to Starbucks but I didn't feel like a warm cup of coffee. So I ordered one of my favorites: White Chocolate Mocha Frappucino. Yummy!
I did manage to make it out to vote. I was able to walk in and vote. No lines.
Back in the summer I sent in my registration form. I never received my card so I assumed that I wasn't registered. Then it hit me...maybe my card never came but I am registered. I must admit that I didn't really want to go vote. I was just being lazy. But my dad guilted me into going. And my 18 year old niece was going so I felt like I should be a good role model. And as it turns out I was registered and I voted.

Happy One Month, Sweetie

Ya know who you are and what I'm talking about. It's been one of my best months! Thanks for making me happy.

Cakes, Cakes, Cakes

My dear friend, former land lady, and aunt of Edie, Ida, sent me this picture. Twice a year the church that I fell in love with in San Antonio has a barbecue chicken plate sale. As a parishioner you have to sell two tickets to the sale. They still send me the tickets even though I don't live in San Antonio. I don't mind. It keeps me close to the city I miss. Yet, since I no longer live in San Antonio I can't go to the sale myself so I mail the tickets to Ida. We used to go to church together so I figured she can enjoy the food.

I have to say that even though I prefer cupcakes these cakes do look scrumptious. Too bad I missed it.
Oh and Ida is too funny. She labeled the picture Patty Cakes. Ha Ha!

So Many Things to Say Today

I have so many things to share today that I will have to do a 3 in 1 post. Here goes...

Yummy! Egg Nog!

On Halloween it was brought to my attention that egg nog is now being sold. We were at my sister's house celebrating the holiday. Lucky for me my dad bought some today and I just had my first glass of the delicious concoction. Egg nogg is not for everyone but it's definitely for me. It also reminds me of the holidays that are quickly approaching.

You're Spoiled

My friend Jen and I carpool to work. I've greatly enjoyed my drives with Jen because we get to talk about all sorts of things. Jen and I met two years ago when I started teaching at my current school, however we didn't actually become friends until last year when I joined the second grade team. Now we are inseparable and it's been a blast getting to know her and her hubby. (I call Jen and her hubby mom and dad when I'm with them. Both seem like a big brother and sister. Although thinking that your big brother and sister are married seems kinda gross. Way off topic...)
Today when Jen got to my house we saw my dad outside. I commented that I hoped my new toilet was finally installed. Then I went on to say that I haven't had to share a bathroom with anyone in 6 years. And to Jen's surprise, she realized that I currently have my own bathroom and that my parents and brother share. And in her exact words: "You're spoiled!" My response: Giggle, giggle "I know." This of course brings me to my final post.

I'm not sure...

As a single girl it often amazes me how much a person has to give up...no that makes it sound bad...how much a person compromises when they marry or move in with another person. I know that once you find that perfect person it may come more naturally to give up some of the things you are used to. For example, sharing a bathroom. It kills me to think that I may have to do that but I suppose I can. And what about all the other things like laundry, cooking, and sharing food. I've often been satisfied in thinking I was going to be independent forever. I'm so set in my ways and I'm very particular about how I do things. However, recent events have led me to change my thinking and realize that it may not be that bad to share every once in a while. And if I should ever cross that line in the forever zone with someone then I'm pretty sure I may be able to share all the time.

The Secret Life of Bees

As promised I wanted to tell y'all about the movie. I love going to the movies. I enjoy all sorts of movies. Today I went to watch The Secret Life of Bees. I do enjoy the occasional chick flick as long as it's not too sappy. But I most enjoy chick flicks with a message. Today's movie touched my heart. I can't say often that I see a movie that knocks the wind out of you, but this was definitely one. In ways that I can not really voice I connected with this movie. And the message I got from the movie was to live life to the fullest. Never let past experiences, pride, or fear get in the way of life and love. I have to say that for many reasons I related to many characters. So I strongly suggest that all of you go see this movie. But don't forget to bring your kleenex. I'm so glad I passed on mascara today.

Off to the movies

I'm off to the movies. (Not alone this time...that's still on my to do list) I'll let y'all know how the movie went later. I'm going to watch The Secret Life of Bees.

Have a great day everyone!

NaBloPoMo

I just signed up to do the NaBloPoMo, which stands for National Blog Posting Month. The goal is to post daily in the month of November. Jen put me up to this. I hope I can keep up. I will try my best. So...

Happy blogging to all!

What? Are you a man now?

So this might be too much information for some but oh well. This morning I woke up and headed to the bathroom. I have my own bathroom but it is being fixed because it is broken. I have to use my parents bathroom. So I headed over there and grabbed the sports section on the way. Ya know. So I could read it while I'm in the bathroom. Shortly after that I heard my brother ask for the sports section. I yelled that I had it and then he said, "what, are you a man now?" It cracked me up. So again, another reason I'm a girlie girl tomboy. But hey. I wanted to check the stats on the Spurs game (they lost, please get better Manu) and on my high school team (they won and are still undefeated). What can I say, I LOVE sports!!!

Being a Good Citizen

I've always been the kind of person that likes to give. I'm not here to toot my own horn but I have to share my experience today. I've tried donating blood a few times while back home. I have been unsuccessful every time. In San Antonio I was able to but I haven't here. The first two times my iron was too low. Today my iron was really good but my blood was too slow. The girl first tried my left arm. Usually when I have blood drawn they do it in that arm and they poke the vein on the side of my arm. That vein was not giving enough blood. She also mentioned that my veins were very thin. So she moved to the other arm and consulted with two other women on the right vein. The same lady that tested my iron and asked me all the personal questions was the one that ended up sticking me the second time. She said she was going to do everything she could to find a good vein because she new how much I wanted to donate. Earlier I was very excited when my iron came back good. Anyway, as it turns out the same thing happened and my blood was too slow. So now I have a 4 hour reminder that I failed at giving blood. I have to wear those colorful bandages around my arms for another 3 hours. Not to mention that I bruise very easily, especially when I get shots and blood drawn. But hey, the girl at the counter gave me a movie pass for my effort. But now I'm on a mission. I will give blood sometime in November. I don't care if I have to go every Saturday. I will give my blood and help someone.

Trick or Treat

Yesterday I went trick or treating with my nephews. My oldest nephew, Michael didn't want to anymore so it was just Matthew and Horacio. I hadn't been trick or treating in almost 20 years. We all walked around the neighborhood and took turns carrying Horacio. He's a big boy. Matthew was a storm trooper and Horacio was a turtle. So cute. I wanted him to be Harry Potter but my niece said next year when he's walking. I'm holding her to that.

We had food, watched sports, and laughed a bunch. It was a great Halloween!