Here's a little surgical humor.
For me, the worst part of surgery is wearing no make up outside of the house. I just hate it. Top that off with the blindness that I feel when not wearing my contacts, and I feel so vulnerable and insecure.
I know that this is ridiculous. I understand just how shallow and silly this is. Believe me, Kerry has certainly told me on more than one occasion to get over it.
Anyway, back to MY story. Now that you know my situation, it should come as no surprise that I was greatly pleased by the attention and compliments that I received from the nurses during my most recent medical procedure.
During this 3 hour neck surgery, it was necessary to wear support hose and the little pump up things to keep the circulation good during recovery. While putting on the hose, my precious and perfect nurse commented on how long, lean and beautiful my legs were. Well, despite being QUITE aware of my HUGE calves, I was eating this up...I was, after all, without makeup and needing a little reassurance. Just for the record, my support hose were considered rather small. Additionally, my nurse loved my current hair color. Score. It's the little things that brighten my surgical experience.
The next high point came from my fabulous doctor. Because we were waiting for a bit for the operating room to be prepared, he came into my preop suite and sat with me for quite a long while. He went over the procedure for yet the third time and assured me that everything would be great, and that he anticipated excellent results, just as his other patients in the past had gotten. His only concern was that my neck was "so slender and small." I was simply "tiny" which might cause a bit more scarring since I didn't have "an ounce of fat, wrinkles, or imperfections" to hide his work. Yet another make up free glow spread over my face. I love Dr. Catorrini.
Of course, here's the kicker. My sweet Kerry's recommendation was that the implant be inserted through the rear, since there was plenty of fat and several wrinkles to hide the scars back there.
Um. Yep. He's a keeper.
Sugar N Spice & My Testosterone Filled Life
Thursday, December 22, 2011
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
Finding Memories
So, I haven't blogged in a while. It's not that I haven't had anything on my mind. I guess I've just not wanted to share any of it...until now-and I'm not sure anyone will be able to read 90% of what this says.
What is it about driving in my car that makes my mind completely go to another place and time? How is it that I can't listen to my ipod without literally feeming for a full on gritty sleeve or a cherry snowball, depending on the track? How is it that a song can transport you to the EXACT same feeling/time/place that you experienced the first time that you heard it, whether it was years and years ago or maybe just yesterday? It's almost as though I can taste what I was tasting at that moment, feel a certain fabric, or see a color that I've only seen once...Somehow, music and smells mesmerize and borderline hypnotize me.
Bittersweet (Big Head Todd)
Everything (Buckcherry)
Crazy (Gnarles Barkley)
Foolish Games (Jewel)
Sorry (Buckcherry)
Numb (Linkin Park)
Bring Me to Life (Evanescence)
Nobody Knows (Pink)
Strawberry Fields (Beatles)
Trip (Hedley)
Head Like a Hole (NIN)
Do you Remember? Jack Johnson (everything JJ makes me lolly)
Little bit of Motown (Various)
Biz Markie - You say he's just a friend *Hahahahaha!
Carry on My Wayward Son (Kansas)
Moves Like Jagger (quite possibly my best date ever)
Sometimes I hate where my mind goes when I hear a certain melody, or smell a certain scent...yet sometimes I wouldn't trade that connection for all the Oreo Double Stuffs in the world.
What is it about driving in my car that makes my mind completely go to another place and time? How is it that I can't listen to my ipod without literally feeming for a full on gritty sleeve or a cherry snowball, depending on the track? How is it that a song can transport you to the EXACT same feeling/time/place that you experienced the first time that you heard it, whether it was years and years ago or maybe just yesterday? It's almost as though I can taste what I was tasting at that moment, feel a certain fabric, or see a color that I've only seen once...Somehow, music and smells mesmerize and borderline hypnotize me.
Bittersweet (Big Head Todd)
Everything (Buckcherry)
Crazy (Gnarles Barkley)
Foolish Games (Jewel)
Sorry (Buckcherry)
Numb (Linkin Park)
Bring Me to Life (Evanescence)
Nobody Knows (Pink)
Strawberry Fields (Beatles)
Trip (Hedley)
Head Like a Hole (NIN)
Do you Remember? Jack Johnson (everything JJ makes me lolly)
Little bit of Motown (Various)
Biz Markie - You say he's just a friend *Hahahahaha!
Carry on My Wayward Son (Kansas)
Moves Like Jagger (quite possibly my best date ever)
Sometimes I hate where my mind goes when I hear a certain melody, or smell a certain scent...yet sometimes I wouldn't trade that connection for all the Oreo Double Stuffs in the world.
Friday, November 4, 2011
This Whole 30 Days of Thankful Thing
I think it's a great idea. I think it's refreshing to see Facebook used in such an uplifting way. I kinda like this.
However, I'm not one for following the format, so I'm going to just list it, and be done. I'm pretty thankful on a regular basis.
These are the things that visit and revisit my thankful thoughts:
1. Having a loyal, fun loving, GORGEOUS hunka hunka burnin love to call my best friend.
2. Two uniquely different, yet equally entertaining and loving sons.
3. The opportunity to earn a living doing something that I truly love...EVERYDAY!
4. A school community that offers a supportive, caring, and understanding safe place to work.
5. Acceptance by wonderful friends who genuinely care for me.
6. Good health.
7. A safe home.
8. The ability to provide for my children.
9. The ability to read. Without that, my life would be much less fulfilling.
10. Music. What might it be like to never hear a song? I hate to even imagine.
11. Art. How sad would life be without the beauty of art?
12. The opportunity to live in the best Metroplex in the best state, in the best country on this planet.
13. A sense of comfort in knowing that my children learn at top notch schools in a safe environment, and that they will have the opportunity to further their education at college, if they choose.
14. Being able to provide my children with a culturally enriched life.
15. Knowing that when I come home at night, there will be safety and security with those that I love. So many women face a life of domestic abuse. I'm thankful that my choices led me to this life.
16. A skill that I can fall back on if ever I am unable to teach. Knowing that I have an alternate profession, should the need arise, is comforting to me.
17. A teaching schedule that rewards me the summers off to spend with my family and friends.
18. A car that is reliable.
19. Plenty of food.
20. A great hair stylist.
21. My sense of Confidence.
22. Hot bubble baths and even indoor plumbing, in general. What misery must those pioneers have felt after a long day of work? No baths....
23. Good teeth.
24. Good health care.
25. Good retirement...even though teachers and railroaders pay into their own retirement and are not entitled to Social Security benefits, at least I know that something will be waiting for me after I've served my time.
26. Our Military and those who serve. This is a job that I do not want to do, and I'm glad that others are willing to do the difficult things that I cannot.
27. Garbage collectors. Enough said.
28. The cultural opportunities so near to my home.
29. A life that is not dreary and gloomy...Depression is such a debilitating disease. I'm so thankful that I do not suffer from this.
30. Family.
However, I'm not one for following the format, so I'm going to just list it, and be done. I'm pretty thankful on a regular basis.
These are the things that visit and revisit my thankful thoughts:
1. Having a loyal, fun loving, GORGEOUS hunka hunka burnin love to call my best friend.
2. Two uniquely different, yet equally entertaining and loving sons.
3. The opportunity to earn a living doing something that I truly love...EVERYDAY!
4. A school community that offers a supportive, caring, and understanding safe place to work.
5. Acceptance by wonderful friends who genuinely care for me.
6. Good health.
7. A safe home.
8. The ability to provide for my children.
9. The ability to read. Without that, my life would be much less fulfilling.
10. Music. What might it be like to never hear a song? I hate to even imagine.
11. Art. How sad would life be without the beauty of art?
12. The opportunity to live in the best Metroplex in the best state, in the best country on this planet.
13. A sense of comfort in knowing that my children learn at top notch schools in a safe environment, and that they will have the opportunity to further their education at college, if they choose.
14. Being able to provide my children with a culturally enriched life.
15. Knowing that when I come home at night, there will be safety and security with those that I love. So many women face a life of domestic abuse. I'm thankful that my choices led me to this life.
16. A skill that I can fall back on if ever I am unable to teach. Knowing that I have an alternate profession, should the need arise, is comforting to me.
17. A teaching schedule that rewards me the summers off to spend with my family and friends.
18. A car that is reliable.
19. Plenty of food.
20. A great hair stylist.
21. My sense of Confidence.
22. Hot bubble baths and even indoor plumbing, in general. What misery must those pioneers have felt after a long day of work? No baths....
23. Good teeth.
24. Good health care.
25. Good retirement...even though teachers and railroaders pay into their own retirement and are not entitled to Social Security benefits, at least I know that something will be waiting for me after I've served my time.
26. Our Military and those who serve. This is a job that I do not want to do, and I'm glad that others are willing to do the difficult things that I cannot.
27. Garbage collectors. Enough said.
28. The cultural opportunities so near to my home.
29. A life that is not dreary and gloomy...Depression is such a debilitating disease. I'm so thankful that I do not suffer from this.
30. Family.
Sunday, October 16, 2011
Top 10 Reasons I Love My Best Friend
20 years later, we are still the best of friends...
We aren't perfect. I'm sure he would like for me to be more adventurous and most likely more glamorous. He probably wishes I'd chosen a profession that made a bit more money. I often wonder what it would be like to be put on a pedestal and catered to every moment of the day.
But that's not how we are. That's not how we will ever be, and that's ok. We make it work and we love our simple little life together.
Here are my top reasons why.
10. Kerry smells so good. I mean...he REALLY smells good. When he isn't around, I sleep with his shirts on. I'm serious. I'm addicted to his smell. Plus...he's pretty easy on the eyes, even after 20 years of looking at him. He kinda gets even prettier each year, if that's possible.
9. You can tell a lot about a man by the type of flowers they buy for you. Kerry has never sent anything but absolutely PERFECT flowers...more often than I deserve.
7. He's the world's greatest dad. There are times when I am a less than perfect parent, and he reminds me of what's important without making me feel like a failure.
6. He likes my quirks. We've been together for so long, he thinks I am the norm and considers other people boring at times. In fact...even with my quirks, I sometimes even bore him. I like that about him.
5. We've been best friends for so long, I can't imagine life without him. At 39 years old, over half of our lives have been spent with one another, and it feels as though we've grown up together. In a way, I guess we have.
4. I can trust him. I know that he is one of the VERY FEW people who could actually break my heart, yet I know that he never will. Anytime that I'm worried about something, I just have to ask Kerry if things will be ok. He tells me the truth. Even if things aren't going to be ok, it always helps to know ahead of time, and to know that he will be there for me through the not ok times.
3. He understands why I am the way that I am...for the most part. That's a big thing for someone to try to understand.
2. We are just enough alike that we appreciate one another, yet different enough to fill in any weakness that the other might have...even though he's quite certain that he has no weaknesss.
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
Boring, but it needed to be written down...for me
Today was one of those "teaching" kind of days. Of course, I always go to school with the intention of teaching. The lesson plans are prepared, copies made, resources reviewed, games assembled...I'm ready. However, despite my best intentions and ample preparation, some days, it feels just like I'm just teaching "at" the kids instead of "with" the kids. It's as though I'm simply going through the motions, and then the day is over, and I realize that the kids were doing the same.
Today was different. I'm not sure exactly how it was different other than the way that it felt. Just as I can't pinpoint what happened, I'm certain that the kids will not be able to verbalize the exact skills that they were working on today. Yet learning was occurring. They were heading towards deeper thoughts. I could see it. I could read it in their readers' response notebooks. They weren't just skimming the surface. They were really thinking...on their own...well...mostly on their own.
The focused skill was writing a summary of a story. BEAT MY HEAD AGAINST THE WALL...WILL THE TORTURE NEVER END???
Strangely, this is extremely difficult for little people to master. Or at least it is in my classroom. Either they say too little or rewrite a six page story. I've heard other educators admit as much during meetings, so I know that I'm not the only one struggling with this skill. It's kind of one of those things that teachers beat year after year with only minimal growth.
Today, it happened. Somehow, I walked them through the important ingredients in a summary salad. We wrote notes over the story and outlined the basic story elements including main character, setting, problem, and solution. The kids took these notes, the rubric, and a formula of such that we prepared together, and produced a concise yet informative summary over the story that we had just read.
When they go home tonight, I highly doubt that they will report to their parents that they utilized their knowledge of basic story elements and plot structure to produce a perfect summary, yet I saw it. I saw it with my own eyes. Not only did I see it, I could feel it happening as we walked through the steps together. I knew, throughout the entire journey, that they were going to end up at the exact predetermined destination.
Looking back over my teaching career thus far, I see how weak of a teacher I once was. I don't believe that I'm a great teacher at this point. In fact, I wouldn't even state that I am a strong teacher. However, I'm a growing teacher, and I know this because I can now finally see exact elements of my teaching that have improved over the year. Not only do I see areas that have improved, but I can feel them improving as I make my way through a lesson.
Why did I succeed today? Was it the combination of the concise formula and rubric along with the notes that we prepped prior to writing? Was it my years of experience? Was it the countless mistakes that I've made while teaching this same lesson in the past? Was it because I was absolutely sick of failing? I don't know, and I don't really care. I DID IT! I DID IT! I DID IT!
Can they do it again? Uhhh....let's just be thankful for today.
Can I do that again? Uhhh....let's just be thankful for today.
Today was different. I'm not sure exactly how it was different other than the way that it felt. Just as I can't pinpoint what happened, I'm certain that the kids will not be able to verbalize the exact skills that they were working on today. Yet learning was occurring. They were heading towards deeper thoughts. I could see it. I could read it in their readers' response notebooks. They weren't just skimming the surface. They were really thinking...on their own...well...mostly on their own.
The focused skill was writing a summary of a story. BEAT MY HEAD AGAINST THE WALL...WILL THE TORTURE NEVER END???
Strangely, this is extremely difficult for little people to master. Or at least it is in my classroom. Either they say too little or rewrite a six page story. I've heard other educators admit as much during meetings, so I know that I'm not the only one struggling with this skill. It's kind of one of those things that teachers beat year after year with only minimal growth.
Today, it happened. Somehow, I walked them through the important ingredients in a summary salad. We wrote notes over the story and outlined the basic story elements including main character, setting, problem, and solution. The kids took these notes, the rubric, and a formula of such that we prepared together, and produced a concise yet informative summary over the story that we had just read.
When they go home tonight, I highly doubt that they will report to their parents that they utilized their knowledge of basic story elements and plot structure to produce a perfect summary, yet I saw it. I saw it with my own eyes. Not only did I see it, I could feel it happening as we walked through the steps together. I knew, throughout the entire journey, that they were going to end up at the exact predetermined destination.
Looking back over my teaching career thus far, I see how weak of a teacher I once was. I don't believe that I'm a great teacher at this point. In fact, I wouldn't even state that I am a strong teacher. However, I'm a growing teacher, and I know this because I can now finally see exact elements of my teaching that have improved over the year. Not only do I see areas that have improved, but I can feel them improving as I make my way through a lesson.
Why did I succeed today? Was it the combination of the concise formula and rubric along with the notes that we prepped prior to writing? Was it my years of experience? Was it the countless mistakes that I've made while teaching this same lesson in the past? Was it because I was absolutely sick of failing? I don't know, and I don't really care. I DID IT! I DID IT! I DID IT!
Can they do it again? Uhhh....let's just be thankful for today.
Can I do that again? Uhhh....let's just be thankful for today.
Saturday, October 1, 2011
On my mind
I wouldn't say that I've been irritable lately, but rather, observant...to a fault. Undoubtedly, with my quiet observation comes a not so quiet blog.
Welcome to my (slightly edited) mind during my drive home from work:
"Seriously over that phrase, "Must be nice." I mean, why don't you just whine, "Poor pitiful me...everyone look at me and feel sorry, because I don't have what you have..." At least if you're honest, you'll look pathetic with dignity. Nevermind. You'll still just be pathetic.
I can't stand copy and paste status updates on Facebook. Copy and paste this if you want to get punched in the head.
I think I'm grumpy. I bet if I made an app that blocked copy and paste status updates, I'd make a million freakin' dollars.
I am baffled by the sheer volume of kids. Their lungs and mouths are smaller...shouldn't there be less sound coming out of their little bodies as well?
Sometimes I hate "having a feeling" about something, because you never know...it could just be gas. But what if it's not and I don't act on the knowledge that I "think" I have and then something bad happens? It's a curse. I tell you. It's a curse.
I can tell when other people are as intuitive as I am; And it makes me rather uncomfortable. Ah, the irony.
I think pedicures make my feet rougher in the long run. I wonder if I can just rent a massage chair and give the sweet little lady a break? To be so tiny, her hands sure are tough - that woman is relentless.
I totally think kids should get over their fascination with pencil top erasers already. They're just erasers. Stop steeling them and for goodness sake, KEEP THEM OUT OF YOUR MOUTH!
Dude. Why am I so grumpy?
What would it be like to burn to death...I mean, how long do you feel the agony? The nerves probably get burned through rather quickly, right? And WHY did this thought enter my mind?
Man, I sure have had a crummy day. What am I talking about? I could be on fire right now, so things aren't really bad at all. Even worse, I could have been that bug that just smashed into my windshield. That would suck even more. Spending your whole short miserable life as a lowly bug only to smack into a windshield and never have had a chance to tell your baby dragonflies goodbye. Nevermind. My day was downright dandy. Time to suck it up already.
And while we are on the topic of sucking it up, I think petty people are just petty. Let it go.
Does this new laser type liposuction really work? Hmmmm....maybe I should check into that. Are there any Oreos left at home?
Speaking of Oreos, I think Lita needs her heartworm pill today. Man, those things smell funny.
I need a new wallet. I bet that's why I'm so grumpy"
Welcome to my (slightly edited) mind during my drive home from work:
"Seriously over that phrase, "Must be nice." I mean, why don't you just whine, "Poor pitiful me...everyone look at me and feel sorry, because I don't have what you have..." At least if you're honest, you'll look pathetic with dignity. Nevermind. You'll still just be pathetic.
I can't stand copy and paste status updates on Facebook. Copy and paste this if you want to get punched in the head.
I think I'm grumpy. I bet if I made an app that blocked copy and paste status updates, I'd make a million freakin' dollars.
I am baffled by the sheer volume of kids. Their lungs and mouths are smaller...shouldn't there be less sound coming out of their little bodies as well?
Sometimes I hate "having a feeling" about something, because you never know...it could just be gas. But what if it's not and I don't act on the knowledge that I "think" I have and then something bad happens? It's a curse. I tell you. It's a curse.
I can tell when other people are as intuitive as I am; And it makes me rather uncomfortable. Ah, the irony.
I think pedicures make my feet rougher in the long run. I wonder if I can just rent a massage chair and give the sweet little lady a break? To be so tiny, her hands sure are tough - that woman is relentless.
I totally think kids should get over their fascination with pencil top erasers already. They're just erasers. Stop steeling them and for goodness sake, KEEP THEM OUT OF YOUR MOUTH!
Dude. Why am I so grumpy?
What would it be like to burn to death...I mean, how long do you feel the agony? The nerves probably get burned through rather quickly, right? And WHY did this thought enter my mind?
Man, I sure have had a crummy day. What am I talking about? I could be on fire right now, so things aren't really bad at all. Even worse, I could have been that bug that just smashed into my windshield. That would suck even more. Spending your whole short miserable life as a lowly bug only to smack into a windshield and never have had a chance to tell your baby dragonflies goodbye. Nevermind. My day was downright dandy. Time to suck it up already.
And while we are on the topic of sucking it up, I think petty people are just petty. Let it go.
Does this new laser type liposuction really work? Hmmmm....maybe I should check into that. Are there any Oreos left at home?
Speaking of Oreos, I think Lita needs her heartworm pill today. Man, those things smell funny.
I need a new wallet. I bet that's why I'm so grumpy"
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
What is a good teacher?
As an educator, I have my own ideas about what makes a teacher a good teacher. Sadly, no amount of professional pedagogy can begin to measure up to what my sons believe constitutes a quality teacher.
From the mouth of my intuitive 14-year-old (who just so happens to have an IQ of 129 +/-) :
"Coach Eason was a great teacher. He acted like he was listening and he even knew my name."
"Mrs. McCarthy is one of my favorite teachers because she loves us."
"Mrs. Bramlett is just cool. She laughed at my joke on the first day and remembered my name from then on."
And here's what my underachieving 12-year-old had to say about his Pre AP Science teacher this year:
"Mrs. Alwin is a really great teacher. She never even sits at her desk. She just walks around and asks us if we need help. She doesn't even yell."
It's strange, and sad, how differently I view the profession. I'm diligently creating lessons that allow students to build on prior knowledge, learn with and through others, and utilize Marzano's Principles of Learning, Bloom's Taxonomy, Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills, vertical alignment, scope and sequence, DRA data, The 12 stage writing rubric, Howard Gardner's Multiple Intelligence Learning Styles, research based instructional strategies, and higher order thinking prompts/maps.
When judging my own level of teaching proficiency, never once do I refer to the one commonality that ran through all four of the above mentioned teachers and my sons. Simply put, my boys felt valued. It's that simple. Ironically, they also aced every one of those classes...thus far. : )
So, after tonight's discussion about favorite teachers, I think I'll just slow things down a little. Maybe I'll try a little harder to pay better attention to strategies that aren't only "research based," but rather kid based. I'm going to try to remember to really let my kids know that I love them. Obviously, I love them. Why else would I scrutinize every activity that I plan? It's just do they know that I love them? If they did, they might just love me back. They may even reach higher levels of achievement.
But what do a couple of punk kids know, right?
From the mouth of my intuitive 14-year-old (who just so happens to have an IQ of 129 +/-) :
"Coach Eason was a great teacher. He acted like he was listening and he even knew my name."
"Mrs. McCarthy is one of my favorite teachers because she loves us."
"Mrs. Bramlett is just cool. She laughed at my joke on the first day and remembered my name from then on."
And here's what my underachieving 12-year-old had to say about his Pre AP Science teacher this year:
"Mrs. Alwin is a really great teacher. She never even sits at her desk. She just walks around and asks us if we need help. She doesn't even yell."
It's strange, and sad, how differently I view the profession. I'm diligently creating lessons that allow students to build on prior knowledge, learn with and through others, and utilize Marzano's Principles of Learning, Bloom's Taxonomy, Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills, vertical alignment, scope and sequence, DRA data, The 12 stage writing rubric, Howard Gardner's Multiple Intelligence Learning Styles, research based instructional strategies, and higher order thinking prompts/maps.
When judging my own level of teaching proficiency, never once do I refer to the one commonality that ran through all four of the above mentioned teachers and my sons. Simply put, my boys felt valued. It's that simple. Ironically, they also aced every one of those classes...thus far. : )
So, after tonight's discussion about favorite teachers, I think I'll just slow things down a little. Maybe I'll try a little harder to pay better attention to strategies that aren't only "research based," but rather kid based. I'm going to try to remember to really let my kids know that I love them. Obviously, I love them. Why else would I scrutinize every activity that I plan? It's just do they know that I love them? If they did, they might just love me back. They may even reach higher levels of achievement.
But what do a couple of punk kids know, right?
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
So I might sleep
A crowded echo,
one last note in the sea of song.
Decades spent
knowing every angle
and soft spot,
or peculiarity,
that begs to be heard.
Yet as undistinguishable
as the fogged mirror
from this morning's shower.
To sit
would be best.
But the fear of the known,
dwarfs
the vacuum that holds it all together.
This doesn't define me.
Nothing does.
Not this, not that, not any one word,
or nightmare, or moment, or phrase, or memory,
or essay, or lyrical masterpiece.
Just the lull of rumbling silence
screaming
to be seen.
one last note in the sea of song.
Decades spent
knowing every angle
and soft spot,
or peculiarity,
that begs to be heard.
Yet as undistinguishable
as the fogged mirror
from this morning's shower.
To sit
would be best.
But the fear of the known,
dwarfs
the vacuum that holds it all together.
This doesn't define me.
Nothing does.
Not this, not that, not any one word,
or nightmare, or moment, or phrase, or memory,
or essay, or lyrical masterpiece.
Just the lull of rumbling silence
screaming
to be seen.
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
Free or Low Cost Cultural opportunities in the Dallas/Fort Worth Area
While discussing academic concerns, a common thread was discovered by my peers. This opportunity for growth pointed towards a need to expand vocabulary and enrich schema. Although this wasn't an epiphany, it did get us to thinking of ways to improve upon this area. I began thinking of all of the free/inexpensive opportunities in this great metroplex and thought that maybe, if parents were made aware of all of the awesome discounts at cultural venues, they might be interested in taking advantage of some of them. That's what prompted me to create this list. I intend to add to it as I make discoveries. While researching, I ran across multiple exhibits with special discounts that I hadn't yet found. I guess my boys will be enjoying some additional enrichment in the near future. Feel free to share this link as you see fit.
Free admission to the Museum of Modern Art in Fort Worth on every first Sunday of the month. 1/2 price admission every Wednesday. http://www.yelp.com/biz/modern-art-museum-of-fort-worth-fort-worth
The Kimbell Art Museum also offers discounted rates: Admission to the Museum’s permanent collection is always free. There is a charge for special exhibitions. Half-price exhibition admission is offered on Tuesdays (all day) and on Fridays from 5–8 p.m. https://www.kimbellart.org/MuseumInfo/Museum-Information.aspx
Amon Carter Museum of Art admission is ALWAYS free. http://www.cartermuseum.org/
The Fort Worth Botanical Gardens: $4.00 for adults and $3 for children 4-12. http://www.yelp.com/biz/fort-worth-botanic-garden-fort-worth
1/2 price admission to the Fort Worth Zoo on Wednesdays which makes the price $6 for adults and $4.50 for kids 3-12. http://www.fortworthzoo.org/plan-a-visit/visitor-information/
Dallas Museum of Art: Adults: $10
Seniors (65+) $7
Military personnel (with a current ID): $7*
Students (with a current school ID): $5
Children under 12: FREE
FREE First Tuesday of each month (Special ticket prices may apply to exhibitions)
Thursday Nights, 5–9 p.m., are FREE for students and educators with a current school ID.
http://www.dallasmuseumofart.org/Visit/PlanYourVisit/index.htm#Hours
Dallas Holocaust Museum-Although there weren't any discounted rates offered, I'm listing this museum simply because I wasn't even aware of its existence until doing this research. Adults - $8
Seniors - $6
Students (6 - 18) - $6
Active Military - $6
Groups of 15 or more - $2 off admission ticket prices ($4 for students, $6 for adults)
http://www.dallasholocaustmuseum.org/index.php/plan-your-visit/general-info/
The Womens Museum in Dallas. http://www.thewomensmuseum.org/
Adults: $5.00
Senior Citizens and
Students 13-18: $4.00
Students 5-12: $3.00
Children under 5: Free
The Monnig Meteorite Gallery of Fort Worth has FREE admission EVERY DAY!
http://dallas.about.com/gi/o.htm?zi=1/XJ&zTi=1&sdn=dallas&cdn=citiestowns&tm=3&gps=267_305_1276_801&f=10&su=p554.18.336.ip_&tt=3&bt=0&bts=1&zu=http%3A//monnigmuseum.tcu.edu/
The Crow Collectin of Asian Art in Dallas has FREE admission EVERY DAY as well!
http://dallas.about.com/gi/o.htm?zi=1/XJ&zTi=1&sdn=dallas&cdn=citiestowns&tm=49&gps=260_196_1276_801&f=10&su=p554.18.336.ip_&tt=3&bt=0&bts=1&zu=http%3A//www.crowcollection.org/default.aspx
Free Tours at the U.S. Bureau of Engraving in Fort Worth. They are really interesting tours and are completely free!
http://www.moneyfactory.gov/tours/fortworthtxtours.html
Non-Peak Season HoursAugust - May
Peak Season
More Dallas Freebies:
Dallas Fifty Freebies
Free admission to the Museum of Modern Art in Fort Worth on every first Sunday of the month. 1/2 price admission every Wednesday. http://www.yelp.com/biz/modern-art-museum-of-fort-worth-fort-worth
The Kimbell Art Museum also offers discounted rates: Admission to the Museum’s permanent collection is always free. There is a charge for special exhibitions. Half-price exhibition admission is offered on Tuesdays (all day) and on Fridays from 5–8 p.m. https://www.kimbellart.org/MuseumInfo/Museum-Information.aspx
Amon Carter Museum of Art admission is ALWAYS free. http://www.cartermuseum.org/
The Fort Worth Botanical Gardens: $4.00 for adults and $3 for children 4-12. http://www.yelp.com/biz/fort-worth-botanic-garden-fort-worth
1/2 price admission to the Fort Worth Zoo on Wednesdays which makes the price $6 for adults and $4.50 for kids 3-12. http://www.fortworthzoo.org/plan-a-visit/visitor-information/
Dallas Museum of Art: Adults: $10
Seniors (65+) $7
Military personnel (with a current ID): $7*
Students (with a current school ID): $5
Children under 12: FREE
FREE First Tuesday of each month (Special ticket prices may apply to exhibitions)
Thursday Nights, 5–9 p.m., are FREE for students and educators with a current school ID.
http://www.dallasmuseumofart.org/Visit/PlanYourVisit/index.htm#Hours
Dallas Holocaust Museum-Although there weren't any discounted rates offered, I'm listing this museum simply because I wasn't even aware of its existence until doing this research. Adults - $8
Seniors - $6
Students (6 - 18) - $6
Active Military - $6
Groups of 15 or more - $2 off admission ticket prices ($4 for students, $6 for adults)
http://www.dallasholocaustmuseum.org/index.php/plan-your-visit/general-info/
The Womens Museum in Dallas. http://www.thewomensmuseum.org/
Adults: $5.00
Senior Citizens and
Students 13-18: $4.00
Students 5-12: $3.00
Children under 5: Free
The Monnig Meteorite Gallery of Fort Worth has FREE admission EVERY DAY!
http://dallas.about.com/gi/o.htm?zi=1/XJ&zTi=1&sdn=dallas&cdn=citiestowns&tm=3&gps=267_305_1276_801&f=10&su=p554.18.336.ip_&tt=3&bt=0&bts=1&zu=http%3A//monnigmuseum.tcu.edu/
The Crow Collectin of Asian Art in Dallas has FREE admission EVERY DAY as well!
http://dallas.about.com/gi/o.htm?zi=1/XJ&zTi=1&sdn=dallas&cdn=citiestowns&tm=49&gps=260_196_1276_801&f=10&su=p554.18.336.ip_&tt=3&bt=0&bts=1&zu=http%3A//www.crowcollection.org/default.aspx
Free Tours at the U.S. Bureau of Engraving in Fort Worth. They are really interesting tours and are completely free!
http://www.moneyfactory.gov/tours/fortworthtxtours.html
Non-Peak Season HoursAugust - May
During the months of August through May, the Tour and Visitor Center is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. with group and general public tours being conducted every 30 minutes from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Peak Season
June - July
In the months of June and July only, the Tour and Visitor Center is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. with group and general public tours being conducted every 30 minutes from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
More Dallas Freebies:
Dallas Fifty Freebies
Monday, August 15, 2011
What does the first day of school look like?
As a teacher, the first day of school looks like an end to all things summer. No more lazy afternoon naps, long leisurely lunches with girlfriends, countless afternoons poolside, or late night movies. The start of a new school year means schedules, agendas, curriculum, and headaches. It also means bright eyed students eager to meet their new teachers and fresh starts. It means a whole new school year. Like it or not...they are coming.
However, this year, I find myself thinking of so much more as the new school year approaches. I'm plagued with bittersweet heartache for not only me, but also several of my friends.
I think of my young friend who recently gave birth to her first precious child. She is now face to face with the moment of truth. Will she be able to live knowing that her sweet baby is in the care of another while she teaches 22 second graders? She will be fine, but your heart will break. I'm sorry my friend.
I think of my friends from college who, at this very moment, are driving their first born son to Stillwater Oklahoma where he will attend classes and play basketball for the OSU Cowboys. I know that if it's making me misty eyed remembering the little boy with dimpled cheeks and loads of blond curls, I can only imagine how hard it is for his parents right now. I still remember holding him as a baby during the countless number of MSU basketball games we all attended through college. I'm having a hard time really coming to terms with him being a grown man already. It is now his turn to take all of his years on the court (along with those same precious curls and dimples) and use them in Oklahoma. Best wishes to the Sager family.
I think of the countless mommies who are in the same boat as I am. The butterflies that they must be feeling while worrying about the first day of high school for their first born child. Byron Nelson may be an awesome school, but it's big, and I'm worried. I just can't help it. He is my baby afterall.
I think about the changes in store for my youngest who will be playing sports at school for the first time this year. He will be pushed and pushed by a man who is not his father. A man, over whom, I have no powers. A coach. Ugh. Can he survive? I'm worried. I just can't help it. He is my baby after all.
And I think of all the mommies who will be sending their precious babies off to school either for the first time, or for the seventh time...it never gets easier. Mommies everywhere get nervous about the first day of school. Will their teacher love their baby enough?
So, to all of my teacher friends out there...remember this. These children that come to you on the first day of school are more than just a paycheck and your source of livelihood. They are, indeed, without a doubt, another woman's entire life.
They are the miracle that caused a mommy to shed tears after feeling that first kick. They are the babies who have kept a mommy up at night while teething or with fever. They are aunt Becky's little princess. They are their mommy's nose and their daddy's eyes. They are the growth marks and dates made in Sharpie on the door frame of a closet you will never see. They are the toddlers who have had millions of photographs taken of their first toothless smile, first bottle, first bowl of rice cereal, first birthday, first steps, first fishing trip, first ride on a roller coaster, and first day of school...whether it be kindergarten, Byron Nelson High school, or college at OSU. Please treat them as such.
However, this year, I find myself thinking of so much more as the new school year approaches. I'm plagued with bittersweet heartache for not only me, but also several of my friends.
I think of my young friend who recently gave birth to her first precious child. She is now face to face with the moment of truth. Will she be able to live knowing that her sweet baby is in the care of another while she teaches 22 second graders? She will be fine, but your heart will break. I'm sorry my friend.
I think of my friends from college who, at this very moment, are driving their first born son to Stillwater Oklahoma where he will attend classes and play basketball for the OSU Cowboys. I know that if it's making me misty eyed remembering the little boy with dimpled cheeks and loads of blond curls, I can only imagine how hard it is for his parents right now. I still remember holding him as a baby during the countless number of MSU basketball games we all attended through college. I'm having a hard time really coming to terms with him being a grown man already. It is now his turn to take all of his years on the court (along with those same precious curls and dimples) and use them in Oklahoma. Best wishes to the Sager family.
I think of the countless mommies who are in the same boat as I am. The butterflies that they must be feeling while worrying about the first day of high school for their first born child. Byron Nelson may be an awesome school, but it's big, and I'm worried. I just can't help it. He is my baby afterall.
I think about the changes in store for my youngest who will be playing sports at school for the first time this year. He will be pushed and pushed by a man who is not his father. A man, over whom, I have no powers. A coach. Ugh. Can he survive? I'm worried. I just can't help it. He is my baby after all.
And I think of all the mommies who will be sending their precious babies off to school either for the first time, or for the seventh time...it never gets easier. Mommies everywhere get nervous about the first day of school. Will their teacher love their baby enough?
So, to all of my teacher friends out there...remember this. These children that come to you on the first day of school are more than just a paycheck and your source of livelihood. They are, indeed, without a doubt, another woman's entire life.
They are the miracle that caused a mommy to shed tears after feeling that first kick. They are the babies who have kept a mommy up at night while teething or with fever. They are aunt Becky's little princess. They are their mommy's nose and their daddy's eyes. They are the growth marks and dates made in Sharpie on the door frame of a closet you will never see. They are the toddlers who have had millions of photographs taken of their first toothless smile, first bottle, first bowl of rice cereal, first birthday, first steps, first fishing trip, first ride on a roller coaster, and first day of school...whether it be kindergarten, Byron Nelson High school, or college at OSU. Please treat them as such.
Monday, August 8, 2011
Friends
I'm not one to have too many "close" friends. In high school, I had one bestie and a few "buddies." That was it. I didn't want or need more than that. Becca was my bestie through all four years of high school-even through our teen dramas. In fact, she found me on Facebook just YESTERDAY! What a flippin awesome feeling. I've looked for her in the past, but never could find her. I've missed her so much.
After high school and college, Becca moved away and I found Tonya. She is quite possibly the kindest soul I've ever known. And her hubby Nolan. Both of them have my heart. I love you guys. Thanks for always loving me...even when I've been a big old pain in the butt.
Quality over quantity. Things stayed pretty much that way for the first 37 years of my life. I always had and kept maybe one or two friends and never wanted or needed more.
Of course, I'm ALWAYS close to my teaching partners. That's pretty much a given. This still, stayed within my 1-2 close girlfriends criteria, so all was well. Thankfully, I've always bonded well with my partners. Maybe that's just luck, or maybe it's just how I am, but I hold my partner in high regards. Once my teaching assignment changes, my relationship stays in tact, regardless of the miles that may separate us. I always feel protective of my partners and former partners, and I can say with all honesty, I love them like sisters. No matter where they are, or what they do, one call, and I'll go to bat for these girls. Kiss & hugs to JLo, Abbye, and Audra. Wish Rose luck...she's the next in line to share the love. Poor girl.
So, when I moved to the Fort Worth area, I wasn't too worried about making friends. Mainly because I only need 1-2, and my teaching partner would meet that quota, thus relieving the pressure to socialize on my part. Whew. What a relief. One less thing.
However, I must admit...times are changing. And I'm glad.
Maybe I'm maturing? Maybe I'm not taking myself so darn seriously?
Suddenly, out of nowhere, I came to a startling realization. I woke up one day and noticed that my entire summer consisted of awesome lazy summer days spent with my best girlS. Not one girl, but multiple GIRLS! That's absurd! Unheard of... How did this happen? Why did this happen? Where did these girls come from?
Somehow, over the past two years, I've evolved into a bit of a social kind of girls' girl. I'm finding that I have SEVERAL girlfriends with whom I'd feel comfortable sharing a secret or weakness, lipstick, a cell phone, deodorant if the need presented itself, or a strong margarita. Whatever. Don't judge.
Some friends have simply gotten closer over the years. For example, my girl, Jenni, just moved here from Burkburnett, Texas and thankfully, despite Kerry's very vocal and strong doubts, she likes me even more than she realized. : ) Nanny nanny boo boo, KB! In yo face! And not only that, let me tell you, we can do some damage in a mall...plus, I love telling her what I think over a good piece of Turtle Cheesecake.
Strangely enough, friends started popping up in the strangest of places despite my best efforts to avoid them.
One of the first people that I met here, and quite honestly, didn't care for much, ended up being not nearly as terrible as I'd originally judged her to be. You see, she introduced herself as a "Star" teacher...Uh...excuse me...that's my title. Apparently, she hadn't heard of me or gotten the memo. I'm kind of a big deal. Of course, now, she knows her place. Love you Cheri. Who let the dogs out? Grrr....Rawf Rawf!
And trouble, trouble, trouble-oh how I love my evil twin, Michelle. With a little work, I'll have her just as trashy as I am. All hail the hut - sending summer love to Fabio the Flamingo. How about we head out to downtown Roanoke for some German cuisine? I'm going to miss seeing your shoes every day. Whateva, sista.
Fort Worth has turned out to be one of the greatest places I've ever met friends. Either I'm just older and softer now, or I just hit a gold mine of quality women. Maybe I'm more approachable now, because I'm just so darn happy living here. I can't help but count my blessings when I think of all of the wonderful friends that I've met over the past two years, as well as the lifelong friends I have back home.
This summer has been full of awesome lunch dates, pedicures, shopping, party nights, and poolside chats and I owe it all to my wonderful new girlfriends: Audra, JLo, Michelle, Cheri, Jenni, Wendy, Anna, Paula, Rose, Erica, Kathleen, Lauren, Kim C. and Kim T., Nancy, and whoever else I've forgotten to mention. My point is, I'm blessed beyond measure. Thanks for spending part of your summer with me, girls. Kisses. Here's to many more summers of a whole bunch of priceless nothing.
After high school and college, Becca moved away and I found Tonya. She is quite possibly the kindest soul I've ever known. And her hubby Nolan. Both of them have my heart. I love you guys. Thanks for always loving me...even when I've been a big old pain in the butt.
Quality over quantity. Things stayed pretty much that way for the first 37 years of my life. I always had and kept maybe one or two friends and never wanted or needed more.
Of course, I'm ALWAYS close to my teaching partners. That's pretty much a given. This still, stayed within my 1-2 close girlfriends criteria, so all was well. Thankfully, I've always bonded well with my partners. Maybe that's just luck, or maybe it's just how I am, but I hold my partner in high regards. Once my teaching assignment changes, my relationship stays in tact, regardless of the miles that may separate us. I always feel protective of my partners and former partners, and I can say with all honesty, I love them like sisters. No matter where they are, or what they do, one call, and I'll go to bat for these girls. Kiss & hugs to JLo, Abbye, and Audra. Wish Rose luck...she's the next in line to share the love. Poor girl.
Goin' ghetto in the hood with Abbye.
People's elbow to you JLo.
Elffin' good times...
So, when I moved to the Fort Worth area, I wasn't too worried about making friends. Mainly because I only need 1-2, and my teaching partner would meet that quota, thus relieving the pressure to socialize on my part. Whew. What a relief. One less thing.
However, I must admit...times are changing. And I'm glad.
Maybe I'm maturing? Maybe I'm not taking myself so darn seriously?
Suddenly, out of nowhere, I came to a startling realization. I woke up one day and noticed that my entire summer consisted of awesome lazy summer days spent with my best girlS. Not one girl, but multiple GIRLS! That's absurd! Unheard of... How did this happen? Why did this happen? Where did these girls come from?
Somehow, over the past two years, I've evolved into a bit of a social kind of girls' girl. I'm finding that I have SEVERAL girlfriends with whom I'd feel comfortable sharing a secret or weakness, lipstick, a cell phone, deodorant if the need presented itself, or a strong margarita. Whatever. Don't judge.
Some friends have simply gotten closer over the years. For example, my girl, Jenni, just moved here from Burkburnett, Texas and thankfully, despite Kerry's very vocal and strong doubts, she likes me even more than she realized. : ) Nanny nanny boo boo, KB! In yo face! And not only that, let me tell you, we can do some damage in a mall...plus, I love telling her what I think over a good piece of Turtle Cheesecake.
Strangely enough, friends started popping up in the strangest of places despite my best efforts to avoid them.
One of the first people that I met here, and quite honestly, didn't care for much, ended up being not nearly as terrible as I'd originally judged her to be. You see, she introduced herself as a "Star" teacher...Uh...excuse me...that's my title. Apparently, she hadn't heard of me or gotten the memo. I'm kind of a big deal. Of course, now, she knows her place. Love you Cheri. Who let the dogs out? Grrr....Rawf Rawf!
And trouble, trouble, trouble-oh how I love my evil twin, Michelle. With a little work, I'll have her just as trashy as I am. All hail the hut - sending summer love to Fabio the Flamingo. How about we head out to downtown Roanoke for some German cuisine? I'm going to miss seeing your shoes every day. Whateva, sista.
Fort Worth has turned out to be one of the greatest places I've ever met friends. Either I'm just older and softer now, or I just hit a gold mine of quality women. Maybe I'm more approachable now, because I'm just so darn happy living here. I can't help but count my blessings when I think of all of the wonderful friends that I've met over the past two years, as well as the lifelong friends I have back home.
This summer has been full of awesome lunch dates, pedicures, shopping, party nights, and poolside chats and I owe it all to my wonderful new girlfriends: Audra, JLo, Michelle, Cheri, Jenni, Wendy, Anna, Paula, Rose, Erica, Kathleen, Lauren, Kim C. and Kim T., Nancy, and whoever else I've forgotten to mention. My point is, I'm blessed beyond measure. Thanks for spending part of your summer with me, girls. Kisses. Here's to many more summers of a whole bunch of priceless nothing.
Saturday, August 6, 2011
Assignment #3: What's something that you wish you had the guts to do, at least once?
What's something that I wish I had the guts to do at least once? I should add onto the end of that prompt the words, "without getting hurt in some way."
Now, you all know that I relish in unique attire and personal expression. This cannot be denied. However, there is a line not to be crossed, and that is the line of nausea.
Nothing turns my stomach and ticks me off more than some fool blamed idiot with a size 29 waist, wearing pants made for a much bigger man in the 36" range. Seriously...you can save yourself a good bit of money on belts and fancy undies by simply buying the right size jean.
This trend does NOT discriminate by race or even gender for that matter. I've been to Grapevine Mills Mall and witnessed an entire Benetton advertisement in ill fitting britches. I wonder how exactly this trend caught on? I mean, hand me down pants, turned stylish? Another question I have is, how in the world do you run if someone is chasing you? Apparently, you don't, according to this article.
Even women have joined in this idiocracy. However, there are two strains of stupidity represented in the female population.
Not only do the women enjoy wearing the boxers with ill fitting pants.
They've also branched out to include women with the correct size pants, but simply too much bootie for the rise. You know exactly what I'm talking about. These are the women that sit on the barstool with their cheeks pushed out over the edge exposing Victoria's not so well kept secret. Seriously ladies. Intrigue. If you put it all out over the edge of the barstool, there's no reason to take you home. Just sayin'
So...without further ado, I announce that I would like to spend one entire day pulling up the pants of offenders and duct taping them into proper position...without enduring physical harm on my part.
Maybe I'm just old. Maybe I'm not cool. Maybe I don't have swagga. Maybe that's ok. Victoria's secret is safe with me.
Now, you all know that I relish in unique attire and personal expression. This cannot be denied. However, there is a line not to be crossed, and that is the line of nausea.
Nothing turns my stomach and ticks me off more than some fool blamed idiot with a size 29 waist, wearing pants made for a much bigger man in the 36" range. Seriously...you can save yourself a good bit of money on belts and fancy undies by simply buying the right size jean.
This trend does NOT discriminate by race or even gender for that matter. I've been to Grapevine Mills Mall and witnessed an entire Benetton advertisement in ill fitting britches. I wonder how exactly this trend caught on? I mean, hand me down pants, turned stylish? Another question I have is, how in the world do you run if someone is chasing you? Apparently, you don't, according to this article.
Even women have joined in this idiocracy. However, there are two strains of stupidity represented in the female population.
Not only do the women enjoy wearing the boxers with ill fitting pants.
They've also branched out to include women with the correct size pants, but simply too much bootie for the rise. You know exactly what I'm talking about. These are the women that sit on the barstool with their cheeks pushed out over the edge exposing Victoria's not so well kept secret. Seriously ladies. Intrigue. If you put it all out over the edge of the barstool, there's no reason to take you home. Just sayin'
Maybe I'm just old. Maybe I'm not cool. Maybe I don't have swagga. Maybe that's ok. Victoria's secret is safe with me.
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
The Bug
I've been worried. I must admit, it happens a good bit, but recently, it's really bothered me. You see, each year, I wonder...Am I really where I should be? Is there something else that I should be doing with my life right now? And more directly...Am I missing out on something by being a teacher? I always wonder this, but normally it doesn't consume me. I'm philosophical. It's a curse. I try not to think, but then I'm focusing on the purpose of thought. Vicious cycle, I tell you.
And, I'll be the first to state that any teacher that continues to stay in a classroom without being there wholeheartedly, should do the world a favor and LEAVE! In fact, in an essay that I wrote once about four years ago, I remember very clearly stating that if there ever comes a time when I don't look forward to getting my class list in the same way that a child anticipates Christmas morning, I will know that it's time to find a new profession.
All summer, I've lived in the moment. I've not thought about school, with the exception of dreading my alarm. I've done very little with regards to education. Of course, I still read professional articles and books, but that really doesn't mean anything. Seriously, I read cereal boxes when desperate. It's just what I do.
Well, I'm pleased to announce, "the bug" has hit, and I'm chomping at the bits to get in a classroom. I've spent the past three days in my new room. Tonight, I went up there just to sit and dream of what I'll be doing in about three weeks. I know, ridiculous, right? It's true. I put up one bulletin board and then sat in a student chair and just sat. I think I even blew the room a kiss as I turned out the lights to leave.
I know that each year, it hits me. It always does. However, it normally strikes in July. This year, it didn't get me until August the 2nd. I was so worried that my career was over, but now, I can rest easy. I'm raring to go and believe me...Christmas morning (AKA meet the teacher night) can't get here soon enough. Hold onto your hats boys, I'm back and as wholehearted as I've ever been!
And, I'll be the first to state that any teacher that continues to stay in a classroom without being there wholeheartedly, should do the world a favor and LEAVE! In fact, in an essay that I wrote once about four years ago, I remember very clearly stating that if there ever comes a time when I don't look forward to getting my class list in the same way that a child anticipates Christmas morning, I will know that it's time to find a new profession.
All summer, I've lived in the moment. I've not thought about school, with the exception of dreading my alarm. I've done very little with regards to education. Of course, I still read professional articles and books, but that really doesn't mean anything. Seriously, I read cereal boxes when desperate. It's just what I do.
Well, I'm pleased to announce, "the bug" has hit, and I'm chomping at the bits to get in a classroom. I've spent the past three days in my new room. Tonight, I went up there just to sit and dream of what I'll be doing in about three weeks. I know, ridiculous, right? It's true. I put up one bulletin board and then sat in a student chair and just sat. I think I even blew the room a kiss as I turned out the lights to leave.
I know that each year, it hits me. It always does. However, it normally strikes in July. This year, it didn't get me until August the 2nd. I was so worried that my career was over, but now, I can rest easy. I'm raring to go and believe me...Christmas morning (AKA meet the teacher night) can't get here soon enough. Hold onto your hats boys, I'm back and as wholehearted as I've ever been!
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Assignment #2: Alternate Professions
Teaching is without a doubt, the perfect career for me. There is no other job in the world that would meet my needs the way that teaching does. If you've read my previous blogs, you understand just how important teaching is to me.
Having said that, there are still times when I wonder what I would be doing if not teaching. How might my life be different if I hadn't chosen to be in the classroom? What else would I like to try in life? I mean, as perfect as teaching is, there are simply some aspects of the classroom that I'll never completely embrace.
For instance, set hours. I know, we get the summer off and multiple other holidays throughout the year as well. However, 7:20 a.m. is pretty darn early, especially when you like to stay awake until about 1 or 2 a.m. It's not just the early mornings that I find difficult. Even more so, I get anxious in my cage. I'm confined to the same building and even the same room for the entire day. I don't have the option of simply stepping out of the office for a quick burger or a change of scenery. I'm there. All day long. I struggle with this...a great deal. There are times when I think I'm going to climb the walls, but then I look around and see that there is a whole room of little monkeys climbing with me.
And sometimes you just need to pee. It's that simple. I'd like to pee when the urge strikes me. Teaching doesn't allow that luxury.
Finally, dress code and general limitations on personal style stump me. For the most part, I enjoy conservative professional wear. I'm queen of the simple sheath dress with scarf or jacket. I like the look, and it likes me. However, there are days when I'd love to wear a pencil skirt and some rockin stilettos. That's a total no go when you are teaching 22 eight-year-olds. It just doesn't work. And don't even get me started on hair/makeup/tattoos. Let's just say that I wear a bandana and/or crazy colors all summer in an effort to get it out of my system before the end of August. I completely understand the reasoning for a conservative look. It's not like this is the only career that requires one to be professional and grown up in appearance. Besides, as a Mom, I don't want for my boys to be taught by a "Freak Show." That doesn't mean I have to like it though.
So, what would I like to try if not teaching? There are four jobs that I really think I would enjoy if I wasn't able to teach.
First off, I think I'd LOVE to be a hairstylist or make up artist. Goodness knows I have a deep seeded adoration/boderline addiction for and to hair color. To actually get paid to change the looks of others would be totally awesome. Except, I wouldn't want to work in some mamby pamby fru fru shop. I want to be the stylist for the strange people. No perms or natural highlights for this girl. Heck no. Go big or go home.
Second option would be a sales girl at the Bettie Page Boutique in the Magnificent Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood in Las Vegas. I could get a discount on my favorite clothes, and I could wear awesome outfits to work. Plus, tattoos and strange hair/makeup are preferred. Win/win!
In addition to vanity and all things glam, I also enjoy photography. I think earning a living by making beautiful/unique works of art through the lens of a camera would be a pretty amazing thing. I'm not sure why I've never pursued this.
Finally, I'd love to be a doctor. I know, right? Who would have guessed that one? You see, I have a good friend who is a rheumatologist. In the past, when I've helped her in her office, I'm absolutely in awe of what she does. I cling to her every word. I learn more from her in one afternoon than I do during an entire season of House! Unbelievable. I find medicine and the human body incredibly interesting. In addition to finding the workings of the body amazing, I also find that medicine makes complete sense to me. Everything about it just clicks. I often find myself attempting to diagnose a patient (in my mind of course) while my friend does the exam and anticipating her impression/diagnosis, just to see if I'm correct. The ONLY problem with this dream is the intense nausea and lightheadedness I experience when something actually penetrates the skin. Seriously. I faint. No joke. It's ridiculous. I guess I'll just continue to watch House, and look away during the yucky parts.
If I could sing, it would probably be fun to be a rock star, but I can't, so let's not even go there.
I guess, for now, and most likely the rest of my working life, I'll continue to teach. Not only because it's my dream, but also because I love it. However, just know that a Bettie Page wearing, picture taking, hair cutting physician lurks inside of me, and she needs to pee.
Having said that, there are still times when I wonder what I would be doing if not teaching. How might my life be different if I hadn't chosen to be in the classroom? What else would I like to try in life? I mean, as perfect as teaching is, there are simply some aspects of the classroom that I'll never completely embrace.
For instance, set hours. I know, we get the summer off and multiple other holidays throughout the year as well. However, 7:20 a.m. is pretty darn early, especially when you like to stay awake until about 1 or 2 a.m. It's not just the early mornings that I find difficult. Even more so, I get anxious in my cage. I'm confined to the same building and even the same room for the entire day. I don't have the option of simply stepping out of the office for a quick burger or a change of scenery. I'm there. All day long. I struggle with this...a great deal. There are times when I think I'm going to climb the walls, but then I look around and see that there is a whole room of little monkeys climbing with me.
And sometimes you just need to pee. It's that simple. I'd like to pee when the urge strikes me. Teaching doesn't allow that luxury.
Finally, dress code and general limitations on personal style stump me. For the most part, I enjoy conservative professional wear. I'm queen of the simple sheath dress with scarf or jacket. I like the look, and it likes me. However, there are days when I'd love to wear a pencil skirt and some rockin stilettos. That's a total no go when you are teaching 22 eight-year-olds. It just doesn't work. And don't even get me started on hair/makeup/tattoos. Let's just say that I wear a bandana and/or crazy colors all summer in an effort to get it out of my system before the end of August. I completely understand the reasoning for a conservative look. It's not like this is the only career that requires one to be professional and grown up in appearance. Besides, as a Mom, I don't want for my boys to be taught by a "Freak Show." That doesn't mean I have to like it though.
So, what would I like to try if not teaching? There are four jobs that I really think I would enjoy if I wasn't able to teach.
First off, I think I'd LOVE to be a hairstylist or make up artist. Goodness knows I have a deep seeded adoration/boderline addiction for and to hair color. To actually get paid to change the looks of others would be totally awesome. Except, I wouldn't want to work in some mamby pamby fru fru shop. I want to be the stylist for the strange people. No perms or natural highlights for this girl. Heck no. Go big or go home.
Second option would be a sales girl at the Bettie Page Boutique in the Magnificent Mile Shops at Planet Hollywood in Las Vegas. I could get a discount on my favorite clothes, and I could wear awesome outfits to work. Plus, tattoos and strange hair/makeup are preferred. Win/win!
In addition to vanity and all things glam, I also enjoy photography. I think earning a living by making beautiful/unique works of art through the lens of a camera would be a pretty amazing thing. I'm not sure why I've never pursued this.
Finally, I'd love to be a doctor. I know, right? Who would have guessed that one? You see, I have a good friend who is a rheumatologist. In the past, when I've helped her in her office, I'm absolutely in awe of what she does. I cling to her every word. I learn more from her in one afternoon than I do during an entire season of House! Unbelievable. I find medicine and the human body incredibly interesting. In addition to finding the workings of the body amazing, I also find that medicine makes complete sense to me. Everything about it just clicks. I often find myself attempting to diagnose a patient (in my mind of course) while my friend does the exam and anticipating her impression/diagnosis, just to see if I'm correct. The ONLY problem with this dream is the intense nausea and lightheadedness I experience when something actually penetrates the skin. Seriously. I faint. No joke. It's ridiculous. I guess I'll just continue to watch House, and look away during the yucky parts.
I guess, for now, and most likely the rest of my working life, I'll continue to teach. Not only because it's my dream, but also because I love it. However, just know that a Bettie Page wearing, picture taking, hair cutting physician lurks inside of me, and she needs to pee.
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