The Best Christmas Ever

Hands down Christmas 2008 has been my best Christmas ever. Actually, the year 2008 has been my best year ever. I'll write a post about my favorite 2008 moments next week. Today I want to dedicate my post to the reasons why I had the best Christmas ever.

1. Presents: giving and receiving. I have to begin with my class this year. They are the most observant and thoughtful class I've ever taught. They listen to every word I say. All of the gifts they gave me were things they heard me say I loved. Also, no expense was spared when it came to their gifts. I didn't get them anything amazing but they were all so grateful and thankful. My favorite student gift: a San Antonio Spurs ornament. Then my friends and family also gave me many thoughtful gifts. And I was happy to give many gifts to all my friends and family. My favorite family gift: a tie between a framed picture of Horacio (He looks adorable). and my cousin gave me all the Scrubs seasons I didn't have. 4 in total so now I have all 7.
2. Family: I've been lucky enough to spend lots of time with all of my family. I am including my cousins as well as my nieces, nephews, and brother and sisters.
3. Karaoke: Everyone knows that I'm a huge fan of karaoke. Last night at our annual Christmas Eve Party other people actually joined in on the singing fun. I have to admit that even though I wanted people to join in on the fun I was a bit reluctant to let go of the microphone. In the end, karaoke was a HUGE hit.
4. Shopping: I am not a shopper at all. Wait! Let me rephrase that. I am not a shopper during the holiday season. I hate to even shop for myself. I currently owe my brother and parents their Christmas presents. However, in a strange moment of weakness I headed out for a day (yes, a whole day) of shopping with my cousin Mary and her boyfriend's cousin, Robert (Please see bullet number 5). I ended up having so much fun with them. And I managed to buy some last minute gifts.
5. New Friends: I've met a couple of new people over the break. Robert is one of them. He's funny and a good guy so I'm excited to take a road trip with him and my cousin and her boyfriend. I always have a great time with Ben and Mary so I expect nothing but the same this time around.

So there you have it. My best Christmas ever. I hope y'all had a safe and very Merry Christmas!!!

It's Beginning to Not Look Like Christmas

I can't tell you what the deal is but it is not at all Christmas weather here. Yes, today in the morning I was wearing a coat. However, as 1:30 rolled around the coat was off and I was shopping in short sleeves. I'm not sure how y'all feel but I'm having somewhat of a hard time getting into the holiday spirit with it being so hot. Well hot for December.

What's this? Karaoke at an airport?

I just came across this article on Yahoo!. I can't believe it. At least I could sing while I waited.

Hello All

So sorry that I've been M.I.A. Once I finally missed a day of posting I kind of didn't feel that pressure to post daily. And I felt like the quality of my posts was in limbo. So I'm back and sort of refreshed. I have so many things to talk about but then I'm so tired. We have one day left of school before we go on Winter Holiday. At this point my body knows it's about to get a break and it wants to relax.
With that being said I can't wait to share with y'all how my day goes tomorrow. Already I can tell it's going to be different. First of all, I only had to make rice krispy treats today. Usually I have to make or put together a lot of things. I rather like this feeling. I can actually relax before tomorrow. Next, my kids at school are surprisingly well behaved. Sure they are excited but they are being good. My classroom looks good. My kids have been working hard making decorations for our holiday party.
So I'll share tomorrow with all my fun moments. (Not at all related to this post...Spurs lose 2 in a row...boo hoo).

Oh the Drama

I am an out in the open celebrity gossip aholic. I read it everyday to stay up to date with the latest happenings. Right now I am very much in a frenzy because of all the latest Twilight/New Moon developments. I very much like the actor that plays Jacob but they don't want him back. Read all about it...I'm too sad to talk about it.

Mr. Kitty aka Optimus Prime, Santa Baby, Octopus, Bad Kitty, Jinxy

A couple of weeks ago my dad was cooking out for family night. On this night a stray kitten came to hang out. My mom loves cats. She's taken care of her share of fuzzy critters but her numbers have dwindled. My niece Vanessa begged us all night to take him in. All of us said no for different reasons. Yet the kitty seemed to adopt us. So now we have a cute, sweet, crazy, and mischeivious kitten living with us.
Except...
He has no official name. I wanted to call him Edward or Jinxy. Vanessa, wanted to call him Santa Baby, and my brother wanted to call him Optimus Prime. Needless to say that he still has no name. So I've come to call him Mr. Kitty and my nephews call him Optimus (my four year old niece called him Octopus thinking it was the same as Optimus). And Vanessa still can't decide. So I guess he better respond to all of them.
Mr. Kitty is very, very bad. Just today he tried to trip me, almost tore my favorite shirt, attacked my trash can, made a mess with the toilet paper, and tried to use my laptop. Bad Mr.Kitty! Ha it reminds me of that book Bad Kitty. So cute. But you've got to love him.

Update: Mr. Kitty attacked my foot again. Bad Kitty. I was on my way to get some banana-nut bread I baked yesterday. He must want it all for himself.

Holiday Party

Our school is having their holiday party this evening. I look forward to these parties because you get to see how people are outside of the work place. Some people are funner and some not so fun. There are a couple of people that I have become better friends with because of our interaction at the holiday party. There are a few things I hope will happen at the holiday party:

• Karaoke
• Yummy food
• Fun conversations
• At least one drunk co-worker

We'll see if how it goes. I've been to every holiday party since I started teaching. I like the parties at my new school because they are always at someone's house. I love to see how they decorate and it really does give the party a homey and warm feeling.

The Conclusion

I just wanted to update everyone on the last two days of secret santa. On Thursday I got the cutest mug from Starbucks. It has a black top and handle and slivery, glittery, clear color to it. I got this because I love the San Antonio Spurs. Today was the reveal day. I got a really cute card with a gift card to Starbucks. I have to say that this was the best secret santa I've ever had. My class and I were all so excited to find out who my secret santa was.

"You're going to have to go to the doctor for that."

My class is hilarious. There are way too many examples to give. They just crack me up and I spend a lot of time laughing with them. This week one of my little girls has been telling me that I'm going to need to go to the doctor to take care of my giggling fits. And then her saying that made me giggle even harder. I love the holidays. They make me extra happy and giggle-y.

Obviously my class knows I love 3 things: San Antonio Spurs, mr. Goodbar, and Little Miss Sunshine. In the summer Target had many of the Mr. Men products in their dollar section. I picked up whatever I could that would work in my classroom: stickers, mouse pads, wipe boards, pens, note pads, and a cute little chart that shows your mood for the day. The only difference is that instead of it saying happy, sad, mad and so on it shows the different Mr. Men and Little Miss characters. Needless to say that my class enjoys changing my moods throughtout the day. Sometimes I'm Little Miss Bossy and others times I'm Mr. Noisy. Crazy kids. Gotta love them. See why they crack me up.

Secret Santa

Every year I've been a teacher I have always participated in Secret Santa. I love to give gifts and I should be honest that I love to receive them too. The only sad thing was that this year only about 15 people signed up to do Secret Santa. I think a lot of us are feeling our pocket books tighten. When we sign up we fill out a sheet with our favorite things. Each day is has a differnet category. Monday: sweet treats; Tuesday: teacher tools; Wednesday: hobbies; Thursday: favorite color or sports team (hmmm what team did I pick?); Friday: gift card to favorite restaurant or store.

My Secret Santa is the best. I have gotten the best gifts. I feel so spoiled. And my kids get so excited to watch me open my gifts. This is what I have received so far. Monday: 2 giant chocolate bars, one mr. Goodbar and a Hershey's with almonds; Tuesday: big, lined, multi-sticky pads, 5 pack of pens, and a correction pen; Wednesday: many, many beautiful beads, scrapbooking paper, card stock backgrounds, and stickers.

I'll update what I get on the final two days as they happen. What can I say? I love Secret Santa!!!

Principal's Observation

Yesterday I announced to my class that we were going to have a special visitor today. My principal was going to do her yearly observation of me teaching a lesson. My class was excited because they love visitors. The plan was to do a mini-lesson on prefixes, suffixes and root words. Then move into work stations while my co-teacher and I did guided reading and writing.

Fast forward to today
7:40 Miss G. drives into the school parking on a dark, cold and drizzling morning. I can tell that all kids are going to be CRAZY today because of the weather. Not the greatest day for an observation but at least it's not raining. I'm also worried the principal will be a no show because she is not back in town.
8:15 Starts to pour outside. Aw crap, now the kids won't even get to go out to recess. Miss G. thinks that after lunch the kids are going to be crazy. I exchange worried glances with my co-teacher.
11:45 Two of my girls that go to another class for enrichment run in and shout: "MISS G. IT'S SNOWING!!!" All of my enrichment kids run to the one window in my class to see the snow. I'm thinking, AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!
12:35 Jen tells me that my co-teacher reminded my principal of the observation. (She had been out of town since Thursday.) She also asked if she was going to take into consideration the weather. Needless to say that the principal was a bit clueless.
1:20 Co-teacher arrives early to help prep the kids. We get them to clean their desks, pass out their work stations folder, and to continue writing in their writer's workshop notebook. I want the principal to see us transition into our lesson.
1:32 Principal walks in and the kids are excited. She says hello and the lesson and observation begins. Since yesterday I introduced prefixes and suffixes today's mini-lesson is a hands-on activity where the class gets up and puts together root word with a prefix or suffix that makes sense. My class rocks the activity.
1:45 Class breaks into their work stations. As soon as kids get situated co-teacher and I call our guided reading and writing groups. Principal circulates asking students about their work station. Principal watches co-teacher and I work our magic. After one group with us Principal asks me questions about my work stations. She is impressed with my students' writing and asks for additional copies that I hadn't enclosed in her packet.
2:15 Principal leaves and my class, co-teacher and I exhale. Not at all bad. I thank my students for the awesome lesson.

I have to say that I was very pleased with the way my observation went. Even though the weather was bad and the day was unusual my class was wonderful. They really pulled through for me. I guess that's what happens when you have the perfect class. So thanks to all of you that wished me luck. It was a great day.

My New Grandma

If you read my previous post I spent the afternoon with Jen and her MawMaw. I met Jen's MawMaw about two months ago and thought she looked fabulous. Today I got to know her a lot better. She bought me dinner, welcomed me into her home, showed me her beautiful Christmas tree, and shared a lot of her family history. Being a lover of history in general I absolutely loved everything she shared with me. And there were pictures to go with it. I have to say that I had a great night.

So again thanks to Jen for sharing her grandma with me. And thank you to MawMaw for making me feel welcome and for the great history lesson.

Aw S@&t! I Forgot to Shave

Today I had the privilege of going to the beauty salon with Jen and her MawMaw. Jen had invited me one previous time but it conflicted with family night. I'm so glad I got to join in the fun today. Jen and her MawMaw had their nails done and I had a pedicure and eyebrow waxing. By the way...OUCH!!! It had been a couple of years since I had touched up my brows.

As the girl was getting the foot tub ready something hit me like a slap in the face. To my horror I forgot to shave my legs. I was mortified. I apologized repeatedly to the girl and she said repeatedly not to worry that she had seen worse. What??? Worse than me? As embarrassing as this is I have to admit that I haven't shaved in about...6 weeks. (Opps, guess y'all know I'm not getting any.) Anyway, I didn't really believe she meant it but still it was nice of her to say.

So to conclude my next embarrassing chapter I had a great pedicure, the girl was nice and I enjoyed myself tremendously. So thanks Jen for inviting me to come.

Little 'Ol Me....

I want to thank Amy and Bonnie for giving me this award. They have become such great buddies of mine.

Bonnie:
I actually met Bonnie in person on my birthday last year. She and Jen had class together. Jen wanted to treat me to dinner so I tagged along as they met before class. I'm sure glad to have gotten to know Bonnie better through her blog. And it is so true that we share many similar interests and ideas. So cheers to my tomboy buddy. And thanks a lot for the award.

Amy:
I started reading Amy's blog because of Jen. I've come to really enjoy it because of Amy's love and appreciation of family. I too am very close to my family. And I think Alyce is too cute. I also feel that I know Amy a lot better because Jen tells me stories about when y'all were little. So thanks Amy for the award.

The rules for this award are that you must list 5 of your addictions and then give the award to five other people.

Tell these people about their award by leaving a comment for them on their blog.

My Addictions
Laughing: I can make anything into a joke. I find the humor in EVERYTHING, which can get me into trouble.

Celebrity Gossip: Because what Britney did over the weekend is really important.

San Antonio Spurs: Woo hoo!!! Go Spurs Go!!! I guess Manu Ginobili should be a category on his own but I'll include him here. I.LOVE.Manu.

Harry Potter: This boy wizard totally won my heart over. Technically Harry Potter is about a year younger than me. The books take place in the 90's rather than when they were released so it's okay for me to love him.

Arts and Crafts: I will attempt to make anything and everything. When I see invitations, greeting cards or jewelry the wheels in my head start turning. My thought: "Why buy something you can make yourself?" So I refuse to and make it myself. Next on the crafting plate...stamps. But some are sooo pricey.

And the award goes too....(drum roll please)
1. Jen: The gal that got me into this whole mess so I guess I would never have received this award without her. Jen has put up with so much of my attitude, drama, and excitement that she deserves this award and many others. Oh and not my attitude necessarily but I can be temperamental when someone rubs me the wrong way.

2. Heidi: I'm glad to have crossed paths with her. She is so giving with her time and it inspires me to do the same.

3. Anne: Without even knowing it she has come to the rescue with her witty posts and great sense of humor. I love reading her blog.

Don't have too many blogging friends so I pick you and you again.

4. Bonnie: What can I say? You crack me up. I love to read your blog. You are funny and deep. A really great balance.

5. Amy: I love to hear Alyce's point of view and how your life is so complete with her in it. You are a wonderful mother.

I'm so happy for all of you! I love to read your blogs and get to know you better.

Holiday Movies

Even though I love holiday movies I don't exactly rush out to see many (with the exception of Elf, but that's hilarious). Yet this year I'm in a movie type of mood so I thought I'd post a list of movies I'm interested in watching this holiday season.

1. Twilight: Yup I want to see it over and over and over.
   
2. Nothing Like the Holidays: The previews remind me of my family.
   
3. The Spirit: I loved 300 and Sin City so I know I'm going to love this movie.
   
4. Seven Pounds: I'm so curious what Will Smith's mission is.
   
5. The Curious Case of Benjamin Button: I wonder how this love story will end.
   

What movie are y'all looking forward to watching this holiday season?

Soooo Sleepy

I am so sleepy that I can't fall asleep. I hate when that happens. I have no will and energy to lay down and fall asleep. What a boring post I know. I will more creative tomorrow. I promise.

Not Again

So my perfect class has one flaw. They are NOT Spurs fans. When I mention the Spurs the boys in my class roll their eyes. They even say, "Not again!" Most of them have their own favorite team so they don't follow MY team. Every year I'm able to win some kids over and make them Spurs fans but not this year. And not even the fact that my co-teacher follows the Spurs helps win them over. What can I do?

So picture this...I am reading a book to my class. I want my kids to enter the Kids Can Be Authors Contest through Scholastic. Students write and illustrate their own book. Well I've been reading different books that have won before. The kids really like them. I read one where students wrote about a farm that became the place where their school was built. It was very sweet. After the book I talked about possible subjects for a book the class could write. I said that you can write about something you really love. I did a think aloud with the kids.

Me: "What is something I love?" (I actually thought of mac and cheese but I couldn't write a book about that. My next thought was the Spurs.) "I know. I love the Spurs. I would write about them."

J: points to his mouth with both hands "I knew you were going to say that with that little mouth of yours?"

The whole class cracked up including me. But of course I didn't back down. (FYI: J is a New England Patriots fan.)

Me: "Yes, I'm going to write about the Spurs. That's my idea!"

So today my class started brain-storming their own idea for a book. I started my Spurs story. Jen had a great idea that I should keep every part of my story so that I can show my kids (present and future) that you have to work hard at writing something good. It isn't perfect the first time. So I'll share my process with y'all. Of course the kids can't take my idea. But it would have been nice if they chose to write about the Spurs.

I can picture it. It would win, I could send the Spurs Organization a copy, then they would invite us all to one of their games, we would meet the team down on center court, I would lock eyes with Manu, he would want to marry me. Kidding...he's already married. But just meeting the Spurs team would've been amazing.

Wishful thinking! Hope my kids end up loving my story.

Ok, Ok, Jen...I'm Spoiled

Note: I began this post on November 20th and am finishing it today.

Today when Jen was dropping me off there was a HUGE dog outside. Since I live at home I called my dad to come help me. Of course my dad bundled up (it was cold) and he came out to shoo away the dog and help me carry in my stuff. Unfortunately, by the time my dad came outside the HUGE dog was gone. But it really was there, ask Jen.

Today, December 3rd, my dad was cooking out for dinner for our family night. It's not really all that cold here so it wasn't a big deal. Of course Patty has a special request. My hamburger patty has to be made in a pan outside. I hate the taste of grill marks. Yuck!!!
Also, when I got home I had two bottles of Dr. Pepper on my nightstand. I know y'all are thinking: "so what?" but they are football shaped Dr. Pepper bottles. He brought my mom one at the beginning of football season and wanted one ever since. So he remembered to buy me two.

These are just a few examples of how my dad spoils me. My mom spoils me too. Jen and I have huevo con chorizo burritos every Friday. Yummy! I love being at home.

I Love Christmas Shows

I hate it when I change the channel and I just missed a Christmas cartoon or movie. Boo hoo.

Reconnecting

Today while logged in to my Yahoo! account I was able to catch up and chat with my old friend Denise. Denise went to Our Lady of the Lake University together. We moved through our entire education classes together. We also did extra-curricular activities like Lake Ambassadors and Smart Friends. Smart Friends was actually a job. I will have to go more into detail about another day. Needless to say that after moving back home Denise and I didn't keep in touch as much as I would've liked.

So thanks to IM'ing Denise and I have reconnected and I will definitely make a better effort to stay in touch with her.

Holla!!!!!!!!!!

Just saying hello to all of you still reading my blog. I've been especially giddy and happy lately. I can't exactly pinpoint why I'm so happy but I am. And I really like it. This may be a random post but perhaps my good mood will rub off on other people.

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!

Matthew and Michael

My nephew Matthew is quite the character. He's a free spirit and doesn't care much about what others think. His brother, Michael, is the complete opposite. He is always worried about what people say and think of him. Michael loves sports. He tries really hard to be good at them. He's also a smart kid and works very hard to get good grades. Matthew is also good at sports but excells at them with little or no effort. His grades are good too but he doesn't really care.

Yesterday I was decorating my students' Halloween bags. Since I had the clever idea to make the bags myself I was trying to draw various Halloween pictures. Matthew asked to make a bag, which I allowed because I always give them a goody bag. He drew the cutest vampire I had ever seen. Then it clicked and I asked him if he would help me make my bags. He agreed. Here are Matthew's masterpieces. They are so adorable. I almost didn't want to give them away, but then I would have to make more bags.

Dracula

Frankenstein

Headless Horseman

Witch

: (

My Spurs lost to the Suns in their first, regular season game. It was a great game. Manu didn't play due to his injury. I have to say that I'm impressed with the other talent on the team. Some players that didn't get much playing time last season did really well. I will miss Brent Barry but I suppose live goes on.

The Spurs

On Wednesday, October 29th the Spurs are back against the stupid Suns. It will be showing on ESPN so I'll get to watch it. GO SPURS GO!!!

Happy 1st Birthday Horacio!!!

On this day one year ago my baby boy was born. He's not my baby, but my baby's baby. I'm his great aunt and godmother. He's a pretty special guy. He's the most happy baby I've ever met and you can't help but fall in love with him when you see him. Right, Jen? And not to mention that he's the most adorable and beautiful baby I've seen. I've mentioned this before but his name is actually Ezekiel but I call him Horacio.

Happy Birthday, Horacio! I absolutely love and adore you.
Love,
Your Nina

That's me holding him the day we baptized him.

Romance

At this moment I am watching the movie Hope Floats. And it made me wonder...do women really want romance? I know that many "chick flicks" are written or directed by women for the purpose of making money off of women. But Hope Floats is not only romantic but it teaches a powerful lesson. Sandra Bullock's character (Oh and I've been to her restaurant in Austin, good but pricey. I'll save my stand on expensive things for another time.) gets cheated on by her husband. Although not everyone has experienced this kind of betrayal I'm sure we've experienced it in some way. It takes Bullock's character almost the entire movie to realize that her fear of losing her husband made her change who she was. She was a strong, opinionated, and captivating person but somewhere along the way she became whatever she thought her husband wanted. She became complacent, clingy, and a push over. She is sad and broken and it takes Harry Connick Jr.'s character to have her believe in herself. I'm not a big fan of the man (or woman) that saves the day, but I do believe that sometimes it takes another person to mend us. I think this person can be a family member or a really great friend, or every once in a while it is a romantic companion.
I have to admit that I'm the kind of girl that likes a sweet man. I do want a guy that can be romantic but not to the point that he would be considered more girlie than me. I guess that's the girlie girl tomboy in me. I LOVE tomboy things like watching sports, eating pizza and chicken wings, going to movies with violence (hello 300 and Sin City), to girlie stuff like watching romantic movies in bed and baking. I love romance. But it's not what you can give me that shows romance. It's what you say and do. I've talked to many a women who agree. What's the saying? Flowers say I'm sorry, chocolate says I love you. I rather hear the words I'm sorry or I love you. But...every one in a while some flowers wouldn't hurt. So all you fellas out there...send your wife or girlfriends some flowers to work. Not for their birthday or Valentine's. Send them just because.

It's the holiday season and it usually puts people in a really good mood.

Depressed

Everyone that knows me knows that I love Christmas. It's my favorite holiday. If such a place as Christmas Town existed I would move there. I don't love it because of any one particular thing but a combination of things. First, I love the fact that it's cold and I can drink hot coffee whenever I want without getting hot. I love to bundle up in my scarf, beenie, and gloves. Some would argue that it doesn't get that cold here, but it does. Next, I love the smell in the air. It's a combination of baked goods, vanilla, firewood, and the cold. (Is that a smell? I seem to think so.) And not to mention the fact that I LOVE to decorate for the occasion. Actually, I used to decorate my house in San Antonio for all holidays but due to currentl living conditions I don't right now. I love to put up my tree decked out in whatever the theme for the year is. One year I did blue, white, and silver. The next year I did a...hmm...not sure what you would call it but it had pillow-like reindeer, santas, and gingerbread men. The third year I did a candyland theme full of sweets and color. Lastly, I love to go driving around the city looking at decorated and lit houses. I did it in San Antonio, too. Here at home I usually drive to a well-known neighborhood to gaze at their decorations. We also have our own version of the "Budweiser Christmas House". And we always take a stroll around downtown and our university. The university has something called the Season of Lights. All the trees and buildings are lit with white lights. Sadly this year there will be no Season of Lights. After 16 years it is cancelled. Damn economy!

My 25 Favorite Things

Many people do their 100 favorite things. I figure I can add to it later. For now it's 25 and in no particular order.

1. Emanuel Ginobili
   
2. THE SAN ANTONIO SPURS
3. John Dorian
   
4. Tulips
5. Homemade cupcakes
   
6. Edward
   
7. Stephen Colbert/Jon Stewart
8. San Antonio Skyline
9. Mr. Goodbar
10. Mac and cheese
11. Harry Potter
    
12. Yellow
    
13. Hallmark movies
14. Rain
15. Baking
16. Food Network
    
17. Teaching
18. Birthdays
19. Football
20. Presents
21. Music
22. Vitamin Water
23. The sun
24. Dad's pina colada
25. Seafood
    

I Must

This weekend I am going to try a first. I've decided to go watch a movie alone. I've actually wanted to go for a while, just to say I have but never got around to it. Who knows, I may actually like it. I want to watch the movie The Secret Life of Bees. So I'll let you know if I do. I also have to head over to Michael's for party planning supplies.

Shaq, the Idiot

Shaquille O'Neal is really annoying and an idiot.

Fingerprinting

According to state law all Texas school districts are requiring most of their employees to be fingerprinted. I was fortunate enough to get fingerprinted. I'm not sure that is the proper way to say it. Well needless to say that some young guy was doing it. At first he didn't look at all friendly and sometimes I can be so airheadish. I handed him my FastPass, which meant that I didn't have to pay to be fingerprinted. Then we had to fill out all this information about ourselves like eye and hair color, height, and weight (boo hoo). Oh yeah, and they wanted me to write what my skin tone was. WHAT??? Skin tone? I wanted to write pasty or pale, but I knew better. So I waited or the fingerprinting person to help me with that.
Before I continue I have to mention that the fingerprinting was located in my "brother's" class. I say brother because Jen says we pick on each other like brother and sister. So of course he was going to add unpleasantness to my experience. J is also the same guy that I bet the Spurs would be the Suns in April. I won of course.
On with the story. I mentioned I didn't fill out that part and handed him my pink pen. I turned to talk to J and when I turned back to look at the fingerprinting guy he was staring at me holding my pen out to me. Apparently he wanted my ID so he could check it against the FastPass. Ha, what a dork. AND to my horror I didn't fill out the weight part. YIKES!!! Then the whole time he was putting my hand on the machine he kept saying "relax your hand." First of all he's a stranger and secondly this machine can make a mistake and say I'm a delinquent. Everytime the machine scanned my fingers I started at his computer. Oh and then when he was doing my right hand he asked me to stand towards him. Uncomfortably close. And the whole time J is yacking away about how the guy needs to watch out for me because I'm such trouble. The most embarrassing, yet funny part of the whole thing was when he again asked me to relax my hands. I was too worried because some red spots were showing up on my prints. I then asked him what the red spots were. He said not to worry about the spots to worry if the box next to that ever went below 75% then I should worry. So the snappy thinker I am I said, "Oh I always pass everything!" He then went on to take my pinkie finger and sloppily move it against the scanner. Then he said: "I bet you didn't pass that one." Sure enough I didn't. Lucky for me he did it again and I did pass. Hopefully he erased the first score. I'd really like to keep my job.