New Year Resolutions

Here we are at the end of another year! On the way home from visiting my cousin yesterday, I thought about how people are always making their resolutions. The first week or two usually we are working at them, but slowly fall back into the same ole routines. Habits? Lifestyles? Lack of dedication? Yes, yes, and yes.  Hey, I've been there....  Perhaps too, the bar is set to high for us to achieve. Given that with the previous mentioned factors, we are all set up for failure. 

What to do?

At first, I thought I would just ignore the whole resolution thing. Then I decided to bring the bar down and make reasonable resolutions. And I have. Here we go:

1. I will have my oil changed on time.

2. I will have my tires rotated more often.

3. I will wash my car more often. (OK, I know that is 3 car things in a row, but you have to remember I was in the car when I made this list.)

4. I will be more out-going.

5. I will read more current novels.

6. I will not repeat myself so often.

7. I will try to eat more fiber.

8. I will look for a toe ring that does not come off so easily and disappear.

9. I will not repeat myself so often.

10. I will work harder at making the circle thing in the front yard a flower bed this year.

Ok, that's it.  I make no promises on any of them, but for the first week or so in 2007, I will be making an effort!! 

Thanks to all who read my journal!  There are wonderful readers out here in J-land and I've come to know a few of you rather well. Thank you for both being a part of my world and letting me glimpse into yours! I hope 2007 will be a wonderful year!         

Be safe tonight if you're partying!          

 

Home Again, Home Again, Jiggity Jig!

I hope everyone had a great Christmas! I spent about 6 days down at Orange Beach with the sun and rain taking turns showing their faces.  Christmas Day was to windy and cold to enjoy much of anything on the beach. 

BTW, if you ever go down that way and looking for a place to eat, try Lambert's Cafe.  www.throwedrolls.com  .

But, I'm glad to be home.... ain't nothing like it!! 

 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EIPilHSkz78

Merry Christmas... just a little early...

I know this is several days early, but I'm not sure I'm going to be around very much the next several days. I hope all of you have a wondrful Christmas holiday! 

Other day, as I was driving down the road, this song came on the radio.  "PERFECT!" I thought to myself. I hunted and finally found the orginal, (or one of them).  Enjoy!

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Full Moons and Artic Fronts, part 2

Someone sent me this picture (among a lot of others) and I think it really goes with the entry from yesterday.  And let me add, this is NOT the boy in my story!!    

See?There are more out there!  LOL 

Sorry if this offends anyone!!  I tried to shrink it, but it wouldn't shrink any more than this!! 

 

Full Moons and Artic Fronts

This past week was full of wierd little happenings and big-time attitudes at school . . . including mine!  When we have a full moon, the kids begin to be wierd.  I try to stay normal.  OK, OK, I know what you're thinking.  As close to me being normal as possible.

It started first thing Monday morning with a phone call from a parent.  It seems her son took home a kotex from school and she just wanted to 'warn' me about his fascination about these items (which we already knew) and for me to find someone to counsel him about it. 

Next, it was my turn to come unglued.  We have two homerooms in our class.  I get the younger kids.  All semester I've been telling them to go to homeroom and stay there.  Have they done that?  HECK NO!  Monday morning my head started spinning faster than Linda Blair's did in The Exorcist and yes, I think there was some green stuff spewing, but I'm not sure.  

Then came the Artic blast on Wednesday! What a combination!  We won't even go into what happened after that. 

I wonder if there is anyone else who was glad to see Friday afternoon get here??

 

Baby, It's Cold Outside

Yep, even though officaially it isn't winter, the temps say it all....  21 degrees with a wind chill of 17.   Let's pretend I look like the 'actress' in this video, ok??  <grin>

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Road Trips and Winners!

Hi Everyone!

It's been awhile since I posted anything, but just wanted to let you know everything is great!  Just before school was out for the Thanksgiving holiday, at 3:30 in fact, I found out the Special Olympic Volleyball Tournament was this week.  NOT next week as I had thought.  On Monday, I had to scramble around and send out letters to the parents of the 10 boys that were going, make arrangements for my sub (thanx Sue!), get everything in line for the kids that were not going.... well, I could go on all day, but what's the point?  I had lots of stuff to do. 

We left yesterday morning (just after I got my flu shot) at around 10:00 in 76 degree weather.  Stop one: Taco Bell for lunch.   Stop two: Wood and Wind (We were early, so took the guys to a hunting/fishing place.  Really cool with real stuffed animals, like bear, cougars, elk, deer).  To bad I didn't have time to look all I wanted.)  Stop three: motel.  Stop four: O'Charley's.  And then survived the wierd weather (actually had tornado not far from us). 

Enough about yesterday.

Today, the guys played 6 games, won 5, lost 1.  They got 1st PLACE!!!!  Way to go!!

Tired and exhausted, we arrived back at school about 2:45 in 39 degree weather.  The kids that were left at school left lots of congratulations for the players.  It was worth the trip just to see the faces of our winners!

I'm spending some of my Thanksgiving vacation house-sitting in Yuppieville.  I have Shiloh (who looks like an igloo as she will be known from now on) and Raven (who isn't really raven) to keep me company. And of course, there is the hot tub which is where I'm off to in a few minutes!  That's one of the perks.

I decided on my first evening back in city life to visit one of my favorite places: Barnes and Noble!  I love B&N! The smell of coffee and new books seduced me into an almost vegetative book-lovers utopia!  I was giddy! What should I buy?  A book, which one? A magazine? naw... hhhmm... a new journal?  Oh yeah, I forgot about catching someone reading my private journal that time... skip that.....

I didn't buy anything... but, I can always go back later this week!! 

Have a good holiday and be safe while traveling! I want you around a long time! 

Talk about having a bad day....

On the wedding day of Princess Maria Vittoria and the Duke
D'Agosta, son of the king of Italy, on May 30, 1867 the
bride's wardrobe mistress hanged herself, the gamekeeper of
the royal palace cut his throat, and the colonel leading the
procession dropped dead of sunstroke. The best man shot
himself, the registrar had a fatal apoplectic stroke, the
stationmaster was run over by the honeymoon train and the
king's aide fell from his horse and was killed.

floyd@just-think-it.com

Now, I think I would have celebrated my anniversary on either May 29 or May 31.  Or reconsidered my marriage.   

Iron Bowl Winner: Auburn!!!

 

Results are in and Auburn Tigers won the Iron Bowl. Again.   WAR EAGLE!!!

Better luck next year, Bama fans!

As we approach the week of Thanksgiving plans are being made for the upcoming festivities. Actually, this is my favorite holiday. As you know, for Christmas most people are fulfilling the whole Santa, in-laws or family obligations, checking the gift list twice to make sure everyone is covered for a gift.  Most of the time, more people are around for the relaxed Thanksgiving holiday.

When asked what to be thankful for, people will say their family, their source of incomes, good friends - both on and off line, etc.  Ok, me too...   You know, we have it pretty good most of the time. Even during the bad times, it could be worse, you know? 

This past week, I read a fellow-journaler's personal experience with 9/11.  I'm thankful he survived the horrific experience for many reasons.  He has 3 good ones.  Here's a site he shared about a girl who lost her life on Flight 93:   The Nicole Miller Memorial Site.   If you ever think you are becoming passive about 9/11, just browse through here. For those of us who are further away and less affected by all the destruction it makes it a lot more personal.  Personally, I cried and could not stop for long time.

I hope your Thanksgiving holiday is a happy memory-maker!  Be safe on your travels this week. 

Jackie

 

Each year our school hosts a Veteran's Day service and it is always tremendous! Veterans from past wars receive tokens of appreciation for their service. The school band plays patriotic music, the choir sings songs,poems are read, and today, one of the ROTC kids did a fine demonstration of  rifle 'tossing' (I know there is another name for it, but I have no clue what it is). 

I usually end up shedding a few tears.  Last year, I shed a lot of tears because a mom and sister of a graduate of our school attended.  They accepted a plaque honoring him. He had died in Iraq just a few months before. You could tell they were still in shock from his death.  This year, they did not attend.

I did ok until one of the ROTC kids read a poem I thought I would share with you, but I can't find it online. She may have written it, who knows.  It had a few lines like "If you participate in church, don't thank a minister, thank a veteran.  If you enjoy free assembly, don't thank a peace activist, thank a veteran...."  And the list goes on.

And then 'Taps'.  Always a tear jerker for me. I made it through ok. 

And then, they retired the flags, American, Alabama and then, I saw it. I had not noticed it before. The tears came to the surface and I couldn't hold them back any longer.  It was the POW-MIA flag.  It did me in. I started thinking about all the guys that went to Nam and were held. Although I was just a kid, I remember seeing the war on TV each night.  I remember seeing some of the POW's come home and the relief on the faces of the family while they ran to greet them.

No matter what your belief is for Korean Police Action, Viet Nam or the current war in Iraq, you need to remember the need for these guys to do what they think is the right thing to do. To serve as their country has demanded.  Isn't that what has been done since the Revolutionary War?  Can you imagine living during those times when America wasn't even established and going to war against everything you know? If it were not for those guys, we would not be what we are today. 

So, for everyone that has served in any type of service, put your life on the line as duty for this country, I thank you. 

 

Elections: Silence is Golden, Duct Tape is Silver

For all you people who have elections in your states tomorrow, I'm sure you feel relieved it will be over. Not because the election is over, but because the whining and back-stabbing commercials on TV and radio will be finished, as well as the constant surge of mail.

OK, let's talk about all this for a minute.  Or two.

Mail: I don't read it guys... it goes right into the garbage can that sits next to the mailbox. It's is environmentally unfriendly and isn't that a big concern of everyone's? Well, except for yours, that is. Next time we have elections, I'm taking names, guys. Save a tree or a thousand.

Radio and TV: I'm sick of it! As a teacher, I try to teach the kids to not call each other names and to be nice.  They don't have to like each other, but you DO have to get along!  What perfect examples you politicians are.  NOT!  I'm sick of the whining about each other.  I would have sent you to ISS already! BTW, would you like cheese with that whine? (and not the good stuff either! Let's go for the cheap, processed cheese with no nutritional value!) 

Solution: Let AOL or Yahoo sponsor a chat room for these people. If we, the American public, want to see them duke it out in a chat room, that's cool. If any of you have ever ventured inside a chat room, you know within no time there are usually two or more people who have it out for each other.  I think it would be great!  They can put it on one station on tv if for those people who do not have computers (if any still exist). 

I'll just pull up a lawn chair, pop the top on my favorite beverage and watch the fun begin! 

Crash and Burn

I think I've mentioned before how much November 1st is a complete waste of time for schools to be open. It should be declared a legal holiday. This year was no different than any other school year.  The kids get off the bus like this:

 

By the end of the day, they are getting on the bus like this:

 

 

I gotta tell you this little story, though.... Yesterday, one of the kids brought Trick or Treat bags for all the kids.  He wanted me to give them out for him, so as I called each one to get on the bus they got their treat bags.  As usual, I was being kinda silly with them and saying things like, 'Trick or Treat, Smell my Feet!!'.... All the kids would just gross out with their yucks and laughter.... except for one kid.  I'm saying, "Trick or Treat, smeel my feet!' His reply?  'Smell your own feet!!!' 

It took all of us adults a few mintues to stop laughing!!

Sweet Emotion!

I burned a couple of new cd's for a short road trip for this past weekend. One of them had a lot of songs by one of favorite rock groups ever! (OK, my opinion, but that's ok...). They've been around since I was in high school <gasp> and I still love to listen to them!   This was an old(er) song when this video by Run-DMC came out, but I did get to see them in concert about this same time.  Anyway, this is just blast... from MY past!! 

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A Meatloaf and Sink Holes

As many of you know, I work with a bunch of kids that are great, but most people choose not to work with due to their lack of abilities. Upon occasion there is always the possibility of having kids from other ethnic origins in our class, as is the case at this point in time. Somehow, some way we manage to communicate. Well, most times, that is...

We like for the kids to interact with each other as much as possible (until chaos breaks out).  I'm sure it is very difficult for the kids from other countries to understand the our wide array of speech and language disorders, but it seems that the problems are not always with the the kids that speak a different language.  The kids know Jose* is from Mexico and they accept him. They accept his language difference. UNTIL, they think he is calling them names.  Today, one of our younger boys was almost in tears and went to one of the aides saying, 'Jose called me a meatloaf!' <sniff>.... "A WHAT??"   '<sniff> A meatloaf!!!! Tell him to stop calling me a meatloaf! <sniff sniff>'  The aide, bewildered, went to 'hear' Jose.  Almost unable to compose herself, the aide explained to the upset boy, "Don't worry, he's not calling you a meatloaf.  He called you 'AMIGO'.  That means you are his friend!" 

That isn't the only time the language barrier has caused ruffled feathers for other kids in the classroom.  Last May, one of my other boys came up to me and said, "Ms. Jackie, you better tell Jose to stop calling me a sinkhole!"  I'm thinking, sinkhole??  Dang. (OK, it could have been worse, ya know??).  I ask the kid a couple of questions and we go over to where Jose is and all of a sudden it hits me!!  SINKHOLE??   (OK, inside I am just rolling....)  I tell the kid, "No,he's not calling you a sinkhole, he is saying CINCO.  It's May 5th, Cinco de Mayo!"

*The names were changed to protect the innocent!  Or is it guilty? 

A Prune is Not Chocolate in Disguise!

What a great visit with my cousins!  I love them all and they have a way of making me 'centered' again.  Marion and Doyle had a great dinner made and I think there was total silence for about 10 minutes.  That in itself proves it was good! When you get this crew together, there is never a dull or quiet moment!!  Tannis and Becky were down from Ohio and Indiana and it's been at least a couple of years since (more than that??) since I've seen her and many more since I've seen Becky.  Hey guys, let's make a point of doing this more than just every odd chance we get, ok??

After dinner, we were sitting around talking and Tannis asked if anyone wanted ice cream. I said no, I had made a run down to The Pig other day cause I had been craving chocolate all weekend. I searched this house up one side and down the other and the only thing I could find that was even close to sweet was a box of prunes. I made a discovery. You can't satisfy your craving for chocolate with a prune.

 

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Autumn Has Arrived

Autumn has made an appearance in the Tennessee Valley. Last week the temps were jumping around like crazy with one day being 87 and the next mid-60's.  This morning the temp outside was 34 according to DeeDee and whomever her current radio partner is. The central heat was set on 55 and the dang thing came on! I knew it was going to be cold then! 

Just got off the phone with cousin that now lives in Tennessee. I'm taking a half-day off, go pick up my mom and we are going to head up there to see family down from Ohio that is visiting.  Should be fun.... 

Rest of the week? Wednesday, Special Olympic Volleyball game at school and one of the clubs at school is giving our kids a Halloween Party on Friday afternoon.  Actually, I think the politically correct term is Autumn Festival.  I don't do politically correct very well and let's face it, not many of those kids are going to come dressed like a scarecrow!  I'm going to dress as myself and be the witch they think I am.  I don't even have to dress for the occassion! 

 

The Trip to the Farm!

We had our annual fall farm field trip yesterday! It's one of the most fun days for the kids. They enjoy it and that is worth the work that goes into making it happen for them.

It's a full day for everyone. We get there around 8:30 and leave to go back to school around 2:00. They got to ride horses, milk a cow, 4-wheelin, wagon ride, fishing and make scarecrows.  And then eat!  And then hayride around the farm! And then play!

BTW, it was COLD!  ALL day!  The temp was supposed to get up to 61, but never made it past 47, plus the sun was supposed to come out around noon.  Someone got that forecast wrong! It was cloudy all day, but it didn't stop the kids from having fun!

Now, the next trip is only a year away!

Book Tag

I found this on  Charley's site and thought it would be fun to do!

1. Grab the nearest book. If you are currently reading something, that'll be fine too.

2. Open the book to page 123.

3. Find the fifth sentence.

4. Post the text of the next 4 sentences on your Blog along with these instructions.

5. Don't you dare dig for that "cool" or "intellectual" book in your closet I know that is what you were thinking!

6. Tag 5 people

He listened carefully to the low rumble of the engine. He trusted the vehicle, but like any machine he relied on, it needed attention from time to time. But it was running beautifully now, carrying him on a most important mission.

Ahead, a yellow school bus, festooned with Christmas decorations, was stopped near a farm house.      From: A Christmas Visitor

Ok. I'm not going to tag anyone, but do it for fun!  Let me know what you find!

Better Together

What a leap from Time Warp and Groove Thing to Better Together!! That's cool, though... Just shows just HOW eclectic my taste runs! 

Just a note: Better Together is by Jack Johnson and I just discovered him tonight when I did a search for Nick and Nora Charles (via You Tube), AKA, The Thin Man movies!  What great fun those movies are! I discovered them when I would have to be up with Charlie at nights when he was sick and nothing would be on TV (OK, that was a while ago... but not much has changed on cable.) except American Movie Classics.

What do you think?  You like the music? 

 

Time Warp & Groove Thing

This time of year just brings out the fun side of me (I'm not sure what happens to the other sides, perhaps they go into hiding? <grin>).  For some reason, I always think about the movie, "Rocky Horror Picture Show".   I found this clip and it really is great for this time of year!

My Autumn Song

This is my autumn song. It should only be played from September through December! 

 

Volley Ball, Girly Stuff and the Farm

This next week is going to be packed! The first Special Olympic Volley Ball game is coming up on Thursday.  It's an 'away' game and I'm going to keep the girls at school that day for an activity very similar to a slumber party. 

Why (I can hear you asking)? There are quite a few reasons actually.                                                                           1)Most of the girls uniforms are not here yet.                                                             2) The game will be a long distance from our school.                                                   3) The games doesn't even start until   11:30.                                                                4) We ALWAYS have to stop at the DQ for lunch afterwards, which is fine. I like DQ. But boys eat differently than girls. Boys this age eat like they have never eaten before. Girls just nibble and play with it. And besides, have you ever taken 26 kids to eat and have to be done in about 30-40 minutes?  Boys can do it, but these girls can't.                                                            5) Some of our girls have some rather significant health issues that clash with the timing of everything that day.                               6) None of the girls play. They don't want to play. None of them are tom-boys, they are girly-girls. Heck, they don't even do something as simple as walk their laps.

The girls haven't really reacted about it except for one. She stopped when I told her we were going to do facials and make-up and she could make me up. That in itself should be a hoot. 

The next day, on Friday, we are going on our annual farm field trip to the co-teacher's  (of the unit) family farm.  We've done this every year since he and I have started working together.  It'll be FUN!  Horses, fishing, 4-wheeling (my favorite!!), wagon ride, hayride, food, making scarecrows (no comments, please <grin>)!!  In the afternoon, we all get back around time for the kids to leave. 

It's a full, fun, busy, active day!! Heck, it's going to be a fun, busy week!

Mull of Kintyre

One of the best musicians of all times is Paul McCartney.  His ability to be a leader in the arts as well as continue to tour and make  music is very amazing to me.  He was a caregiver to his wife, Linda, as well as father to very talented children.  One of my favorite songs is early Wings.  I found this 'video' and yes, it was filmed at pre-MTV times, but that's cool.  Like I said, he is ahead of his time!  Enjoy!!

 

Moon Glow

Many mornings I ramble through the house between the hours of 2 and 5... usually various reasons. Mostly?  Just can't sleep, house is to warm, bathroom, thirsty, stress  are the usual culprits. My alarm clock tells me each weekday morning it is time get up at 5:40 and 5:50 (I need the 5:50 if I've rambled around to long in the middle of the night <sigh>).  This morning is different.  It is Saturday morning and the alarms are turned off (thank goodness! I hate that screaming sound of 'WAH WAH WAH WAH, etc." and yes, I know I could use the radio section of my alarm clock, but the point it to WAKE up... I would (and have) just sleep right through if I have been wandering around during the night) 

I am awake because the house is to stuffy.  I decided to open a couple of doors for a breeze when I noticed the most beautiful sights outside. Moon glow. Not the song. The view. Shadows on the lawn because of the moon. Light from above so beautiful and pure. Brighter than the new morning sun when it first peaks through the horizon. And it's cool just as fall should be.  Time to curl up on the couch with my napping blanket.

 

 

Just a little fun stuff...

It's the weekend, my battery is dead and I can't go to the ballgame.  Not really whining, but looking for something a little fun to lift the mood... Hope this works for you, cause I feel better!! 

 

My Fixation with Helicopters: The Beginning

Helicopters

I will never forget the moment I fell in love with helicopters. It was in  August, 1982 and I was about 4 months pregnant when my ex and I took my ex-sister in law back up to Camp Lejeune in North Carolina. I remember we were admitted at the gate and then all of a sudden there were probably about 100 Chinooks on the tarmac!  Their image against the sky was breath-taking!! I remember watching them until I couldn't see them anymore (meanwhile, the ex- was jealous because he thought i was looking at another guy, of course! He could not believe it was about the helicopters.  He was such an idiot!... probably still is...).  I was hypnotized by their magnificent forms against the afternoon sky, looking majestic and ready for battle! 

BTW: Semper FI !! 

 

 

aaahhh....dem bones!

Two of my favorites together!

I tried to show this picture an entry or so ago and the picture wouldn't show up. I'm gonna give it another shot.

Yes, that's me on a mule when I was about 3 or so.

I took the picture to school and put it on the board to see which of the kids made a comment.  It took awhile, but then one of the groups of kids got into a little bit of a verbal argument over who it was. And a lot of them thought the mule was a donkey. Then they were surprised to find out that I had a grandfather! I guess they thought I just hatched.... lol

                                                        

Hey Bin Laden, I Think We Found Your Ride!!

I took a day or so away from school yuck. It's all been making me just a little knutts lately as you know. SO, I went to the little community not far from me to a Pioneer Day Parade and such.  I saw lots of people I know (and lots I didn't know)... But you know, after the bands (which I missed because I was late leaving to get there) and the tractors, older cars, motorcycles and the horses with riders or wagons, this camel was the end attraction of the parade. I'm still surprised, but our community has at least 2 of them!

Football: North vs. South

You guys know I ususally don't pass this kind of stuff on my journal, but this is the right time of year for it. I'm not really sure if this is right about the north, but for the south it is SO right especially for the college games!!

Planning for the fall football season in the South is radically
different than up North. For those who are planning a football trip South, here are some helpful hints.

Women's Accessories
NORTH: ChapStick in back pocket and a $20 bill in the front pocket.
SOUTH: Louis Vuitton duffel with two lipsticks, waterproof mascara, and a fifth of bourbon. Money not necessary - that's what dates are for.

Stadium Size
NORTH: College football stadiums hold 20,000 people.
SOUTH: High school football stadiums hold 20,000 people.

Fathers
NORTH: Expect their daughters to understand Sylvia Plath.
SOUTH: Expect their daughters to understand pass interference.

Campus Decor
NORTH: Statues of founding fathers.
SOUTH: Statues of Heisman trophy winners.

Homecoming Queen
NORTH: Also a physics major.
SOUTH: Also Miss America.

Heroes
NORTH: Rudy Guliani
SOUTH: Bear Bryant, Archie, Eli and Peyton Manning, Hershel Walker, Bo Jackson

Getting Tickets
  NORTH: 5 days before the game you walk into the ticket office on campus and purchase tickets.
  SOUTH: 5 months before the game you walk into the ticket office on campus and put name on waiting list for tickets.

Monday Classes After a Saturday Game
  NORTH: Students and teachers not sure they're going to the game, because they have to prepare for classes on Monday.
  SOUTH: Teachers cancel Monday classes because they don't want to see the few hung over students that might actually make it to class.

Parking
 NORTH: An hour before game time, the University opens the campus for game parking.
  SOUTH: RVs sporting their school flags begin arriving on Wednesday for the weekend festivities. The really faithful arrive on Tuesday.

Game Day
NORTH: A few students party in the dorm and watch ESPN on TV.
  SOUTH: Every student wakes up, has a beer for breakfast, and rushes over to where ESPN is broadcasting "Game Day Live" to get on camera and wave to the idiots up north who wonder why "Game Day Live" is never broadcast from their campus.

Tailgating
  NORTH: Raw meat on a grill, beer with lime in it, listening to local radio station with truck tailgate down.
  SOUTH: 30-foot custom pig-shaped smoker fires up at dawn. Cooking accompanied by live performance by "Dave Matthews' Band," who come over during breaks and ask for a hit off bottle of bourbon.

Getting to the Stadium
  NORTH: You ask "Where's the stadium?" When you find it, you walk right in.
  SOUTH: When you're near it, you'll hear it. On game day it becomes the state's third largest city.

Concessions
NORTH: Drinks served in a paper cup, filled to the top with soda.
  SOUTH: Drinks served in a plastic cup, with the home team's mascot on it, filled less than half way with soda, to ensure enough room for bourbon.

When National Anthem is Played
  NORTH: Stands are less than half full, and less than half of them stand up.
 SOUTH: 100,000 fans, all standing, sing along in perfect four-part harmony.

The Smell in the Air After the First Score
NORTH: Nothing changes.
SOUTH: Fireworks, with a touch of bourbon.

Commentary (Male)
NORTH: "Nice play."
SOUTH: "Dammit, you slow sumb*tch - tackle him and break his legs."

Commentary (Female)
NORTH: "My, this certainly is a violent sport."
 SOUTH: "Dammit, you slow son of a b*tch - tackle him and break his legs."

Announcers
NORTH: Neutral and paid.
 SOUTH: Announcer harmonizes with the crowd in the fight song, with a tear in his eye because he is so proud of his team.

After the Game
NORTH: The stadium is empty way before the game ends.
SOUTH: Another rack of ribs goes on the smoker, while somebody goes to the nearest package store for more bourbon, and planning begins for next week's game.

Country Living: The Early Years

Jackie on Mule

 

I saw this picture earlier tonight and thought I'd share. I must have been between 3 and 5. That is my grandfather standing on the left. He and my grandmother used the mule to plow their garden in the spring and then to plow it under in the fall. If you don't know what that means, ask someone that is from the country.

I think I need to answer Patrick's questions from my previous entry. (Good questions, Patrick!! LOL)   1. Why does the cat's appearance have to match a cat's appearance? Answer: Because that's the way I think.  No other reason, really.  2. Does Mike the dog look like Mike?  Answer: Nope, not at all!  In fact, I know a few people named Mike and Mike the dog looks like none of them. The Mike mentioned in my entry is of Irish descent and has red hair (or what is left of it, Bless his heart...) and is just a little taller than I am. Mike the person talks more than Mike the dog. Although, Mike the dog does a good job at night of keeping critters away.  At least, that what I like to think when I'm in bed and hear him barking or growling. I've seen Mike the dog chase a squirrel like it is going to be his last supper.  I've never Mike the friend chase anything except a woman now and then (ok, rarely does he even do that), but never that quickly.  Mike the dog's 4 legs are about 6 inches tall... Mike the friend has longer legs, but only 2.

BTW, to all you teachers out there, was it a 'PARENT'S FULL MOON' today and someone forgot to tell me? WTF?? I feel like I've been whipped and then some. To bad I don't enjoy that stuff cause if I did, I'd be on cloud nine!!

Lazy Weekend...

Hello to all my friends and loved ones.... Or those of you who have not realized you love me...

I'm home... As many of you know, I 'house-sat' for my friend Andy while he went to N.C. to get married (I know, friends don't let friends get married! ). It was a great weekend of catching up with my friend Bo, who lives about 1/2 block from Andy. I didn't even know Andy had moved in the neighborhood until about a year ago when Bo and I just happened to drive down his street and there was Mike (not my dog, Mike, but friend Mike) standing on the sidewalk smoking a cig (nasty habit...).  Mike and I have known each other for about 22 or 23 years now. We worked together when we were in our wee 20's together.  He was the one that introduced Andy and me, (as well as a bunch of other folk), but I've seen Mike and Andy on and off during the past 20-something years.  And that's the story of Andy, Mike (the friend, not the dog) and Me... Nothing more, nothing less....

Back to Bo... He came down Friday and Saturday night to 'hot tub' with me....  We talked about his recent marriage (only six weeks ago... what is it with all these people I know getting married?? )  He said he's glad he is married and if he is, that's cool. All I ever wanted is his happiness.

Mike (the dog, not the friend) went with me. Andy has long-haired inside cat named Raven (don't know why because she is shades of brown) and Raven would sit next to sliding glass doors and taunt Mike and Igloo (really named Shiloh).  I think Mike grew to hate her.  Or perhaps, he thought she was a squirrel.  I heard him growl at her several times... Good thing there was glass between them... Anyway, check out the picture of them...

That was my weekend...  What did you guys do?

The Day After....

I'm fine! Not just another day, but I packed it full of activities!  I ran into someone I had not seen since last May, went shopping with a friend that is getting married on Saturday, stopped off at Bo's house to pick up clothes he is passing on to the kids at school.... Got home around 11:00 last night and woke up at 4:00 this morning... Have not been asleep since....  

Thanks for all the warm thoughts you passed my way yesterday!!  I appreciate them all!!

And Nine Years Later...

There have been a lot of moments since Charlie died where I sit back, think about what is going on in my life and ask all the self-assessment questions. 

At the end of the first year after he died was the first time I looked at my life and knew things could not go on the way they were. I was missing a big piece of the life puzzle, but the only person that could do anything about it was..... ME!  I had to make some life changes and decisions. Boy, it can be a bitch when the rug is pulled out from under you and your whole life can change right in front of you!  The changes may only take moments to occur and sometimes they happen before you realize it!! By the time the first year had passed,  I wasn't very proud of my accomplishments, (I don't think there were any to be honest....) so conversations with myself went a little like this, "No more excuses! Get your shit together!!"  And I did.  I went back to school just before my 40th birthday and eight years later, I'm good. It was worth it and you know, those 4+ years would have passed if I hadn't gone back to school. But now, I'm in a happy place (sure, there are a few exceptions, but we won't go there... it ain't all that much). I am doing work I care about and work with kids that need a lot of love and care. Of course, no one will ever take the place of Charlie, but his spirit lives on through me.

I have only had  a couple of these life-changing pivotal moments. I'm not sure I want to many more.  They can take a lot out of a person.  However, these days  when I self-assess, I ask myself, "Have I stood up to the test? (I think so.) Could I have done a better job? (Yes, of course...)  Would I do it all again? (ABSOLUTELY!) "

There is always one last question and it is, " Now What?"   Any suggestions?      

Charlie: Feb. 20, 1983 - Sept. 13, 1997

Look Out China, Here Come the Southern Americans!

A few weeks ago I wrote about one of my kids being offered the opportunity to participate in the World Speical Olympics in China, 2007. He has agreed to go!! It'll be a wonderful oppourtunity for him! 

More news as it happens!!

Rocket City Stuff

I grew up in a rather technological city and lived there until about 8 years ago.  It is a world filled with engineers, rocket scientists, space 'stuff' all around.  In Huntsville, there is the Space and Rocket Center. It's just like anything, after awhile you become immune to it.   How often do you drive down the highway and see a real Saturn 5?  For me? Often!  It never ceases to amaze me at the beauty of it.... 

I often wondered how these guys came up with the right combination of everything it took to get the first rocket into space!  Do any of you remember getting up early in the morning to watch the 'lift-off'?  My mom would wake me up and we would watch it while we ate breakfast.  Even though the rockets would lift-off  in FL, I think most of the Huntsvillians took a lot of ownership and pride in the successful missions, especially back then in the early 60's. 

Today, we take so much of this for granted. The shuttle missions are all very common and unassuming in today's society.  What most people don't realize is the good works these missions actually do.   For a quick glance, check this out!  http://www.thespaceplace.com/shuttle/past.html

You Mean Mine Isn't??

Actually, it's a little drive-thru BBQ place and I've never tried it, so I really don't know if Fat Daddy has good butt or not...  I had never seen this sign before, but when my mom and I passed it today, I had to go back and get a picture!

Hello September, Goodbye 90's

There are two good things about today. First, it's Friday and the second, it's September!! This past Monday was the last day to be over 90.  Boy, am I glad!  I'll take anything between 65 and 85... aaawww... the perfect temps!

 

OH Yeah! just remembered something, so let's make it the third great thing today!  It's a 3-day weekend!!!! 

 

Taking a poll...

Ok... I have a question for all you out there, male/female,  doesn't matter if you are married or single...  And everyone really is different about what they like and that's cool... so, here is the question of the evening...

What is it about a person that attracts you to a person when you first see or meet them?

Travel: It Ain't What It Used To Be

I've told you a little about my trip while in Pittsburgh, but not about the travel part. You should know by know, nothing is easy.....

This was my first time to fly since 9-11. I was a prepared traveler. I had gotten my e-mail about the increased travel alert, what I could/couldn't take on the plane. I learned from my youth, it's just better to follow the directions and go with the flow. I left all the forbidden contraban at home. I knew I had to take my shoes off and wore quick and easy shoes.

I'm in Huntsville at 5:00AM  to make my 7:00 flight. I am standing in line, boarding pass and ID in hand. I go up to the trays, put in my carry-on bag, another tray for purse and shoes.... then walk through the metal detector.  BBBEEEEEPPPPPP...  Oh cr*p! I left my keys in my pocket... throw those onto one of the trays. The guy proceeds to tell me if I beep again I will have to go "OVER THERE".... Of course, it beeps again and I have to go through a plexi-glass shoot where there are rugs with feet on them and a chair. Two women come over and one of them is snapping on her blue latex gloves (I swear I thought I saw a gleam in her eye.).  WTF??  I hated to tell her this, but we were NOT going to do a full body cavity search for the entertainment of others unless I'm getting paid rather handsomely for it!  Well, needless to say, I should have worried about something else. As she passed the wand over me, it beeped like is some odd places. A LOT. I swear I began to wonder if I had metal plates inserted and had forgotten about it!  She has to 'pat me down' to find the metal. Turns out it was my belt with the little studs on it (who knew??) and the hooks on my bra (didn't even have underwires... Mental Note: next time, no bra!)

After I have gathered my stuff, put my shoes on, I walk to the gate. Aaawww.. thank goodness... no one around. I can pull myself together a little.  I am watching CNN about John Mark Karr killing Jon Bennett (of course he's from Alabama... like we don't have enough problems with our reputation) and a woman walks by. She is dragging a bag that is about 3 feet  x 3 feet and it is stuffed to the max!  I look over at my little pink carry-on and just sigh.  She sits about 5seats down from me.  A little time passes and I hear her talking. At first, I don't much of it because I live alone and.... oops, TMI.   OK, back to her....  I know she can't be talking to me... I glance over and she has a smaller bag with a towel over it.  She keeps holding the towel up and talking to the bag...  I never could understand what she was saying... but I was glad she wasn't talking to me.....

I will say, after I boarded in Huntsville, I had no more issues.  The moral to this story?? Sometimes, it's just getting started that is a pain.

Trip to Pittsburgh

I've not written much about my trip this past week, but as someone mentioned, my trips do seem to have a fiction flair. I am here to assure you, this trip was very real! To prove it, I've added some pictures for your enjoyment!   

Most of the pictures are down at "The Point". The fountain was huge as you can see and Heinz Stadium is in the background of one of the pics. One of the pics is the back of a wedding party having their pics made (we wanted to tell them to "Just Say NO!" but they had already gotten married!)  

We went to Steelers' pre-season game and saw Polamalu and Roethlisberger play the first quarter. Our seats were GREAT!! They were on the 45 yard line, row X.  Honey, we were so close you could almost smell the sweat from the testosterone clad bodies.     

Football.... You gotta love it!!  

 

Pittsburgh folks, Thanks for everything!!  I had a great time and can't wait for us all to get together again!!  And Somerville folks, thanks for all you did!!  I love you all!!

But I Wore My Game Toes!!

Hi Guys!!  Got back from my Pittsburgh trip last night.  I had about a 3 hour delay in leaving the 'Burgh and was about 11:30 when I finally walked into the house last night. 

Fun time. Game was disappointing due to bad call on Ref's part. Replay showed it was bad call. Idiot.

Just had to share the game toes MA did for me. Really cool!!

I had a wonderful time with my buds, but it's been a long day... I'll get back with some fun facts and stories a little later!!

Special Olympics

I'm sure many of you have heard about Special Olympics and know a little about the activities. My class participates in volleyball, basketball and track/field trips and it's a blast! The big news is this:  One of the kids in my class was selected from all the gold medal track and field winners from this past May to travel, all expenses paid, to China in October, 2007!!  Yes, you read it right! And yes, it's China, the country (just in case there is any question about it!)  The kid hasn't decided if he will go as of yet. We'll find out next week!

I'll keep you guys posted!!    

Just another entry

I got a phone call this morning from my neighbor. Her husband died early, early Thursday morning. He had been very ill for some time and just a few weeks ago found out he had cancer. There is not a good thing to say to the surviving family and believe me, I've heard some doozies!  But, I'll save those for another journal entry.

Anyway, his memorial service was this afternoon. It was nice.  Short and sweet. And the plus to going is the church didn't cave when I walked inside.  Actually, I think it's a miracle any day I can make it home without many bumps or bruises. I'm not sure why, but I seem to be a walking magnet for accidents and such. I think the days I arrive home unscathed is because of the Wonder Woman bracelets I wear. BTW, they are invisible to those with only human abilities. I often misplace them because of that fact. 

Back to the orginal subject... Gonna miss you Bob! You were one of the good guys! 

School: First day of the year... only 179 more till Summer Vacation!

Yep, that's what I said... only 179 days till Summer Vacation....  I really do love my job, but the first day of school and got home only 12 hours later...  Well, here's how it goes:

Armed with a cup of double strength expresso, a change of shoes, and a first day of school outfit, and my lunch, the morning was absolutely CHAOTIC!!  And then the parents left after about 39 minutes.... I started to change to 30, but heck, 39 is probably closer to the truth... BRB, my dinner is burning....

OK, back.... after the last mom came back in with tears streaming down her face  because she just couldn't bear to little her little precious, interrupting class just one more time to give kisses, everything just kinda fell into place. That is, for the first day. (BTW, this is not a pre-school, kindergarten, or even elementary school... it is a high school.)

We have about 8 or 9 Freshman in our room this year and they are all good kids. So far. If you have ever worked with kids before, you know that's true until the next full moon or tornado is blowing down your door. Yes, I know we just had a full moon and it's still, or was last night, rather full.  Doesn't count. Not at all. It's the days BEFORE the full moon that makes it all frightful.  But it's ok.... I usually come of it with a few good stories....

So, why so late??  What do you think?  Paperwork.  I think sometimes adults need to find a hobby other than coming up with something new that needs to be counted, observed, written, re-counted, re-written, and then, just when you get the hang of it, change all the 'rules'....  bastards...

But, on another note, I really had a great day with the kids!  The returning kids always change so much during the summer it's so fun to see how they have matured... 

I can't wait until tomorrow!!!

*Disclaimer:  The expresso and shoes made the day go much smoother. Most of the lunch is still at school in the fridge due to no time to eat it.  Actually, it really was a good first day of school.  Yes, I do like the kids. No, I'm not ugly to them.  Well, at least as far as this goes!  lol 

P.S. To ST and you know who you are...... SSsssshhhhh!  And thanks for the help this afternoon.  It was appreciated!!!

 

Hair: What is it good for? Absolutely nothing! Or is it?

One of the blogs I read on a regular basis had me rolling in the floor other day!  Wonder Dyke    It also reminded of something I did when I was a kid....

When I was about 14 or 15, my sister (who is 8 years younger than myself) wanted her hair cut or trimmed (don't really remember right now)....  I volunteered  my services.  After all, how hard could it really be??  We got all the tools we needed, and got started... and it didn't go well. Uneven on one side, then had to trim the other side to make it even. Then snip, cut, trim..oops, need to even it up on the other side... It was awful!!  I really did feel bad and she was so pissed at me for a long time!!! 

It wasn't funny then, but it sure as hell is now! 

Yes, she is speaking to me again.........

The Acorn People

     'The Acorn People' by Ron Jones, is a book I finished reading last night.  The original copyright date is 1976.  Only 79 pages and that includes several double pages of art.  Quick and easy read!

    The book is about a guy who is a camp counselor one summer, expecting kids that can somewhat take care of themselves. What he gets is a group of kids with special needs (handicapped, so says the book).  This apparently is the summer his life changes.  Set in a camp where it is pre-IDEA, it relates the struggles and accomplishments of both campers and counselors.

     The brief couple of paragraphs that describe the author, Ron Jones, says he founded the Zephyros Educational Exchange in San Francisco in 1972.  This exchange a non-profit organization for parents, artists and teachers.  After a very brief search, I found no information on the Internet.  Has anyone ever heard of it and does it still exist??  If you have any information, please let me know!!!!

It's a wedding!!

Long ago, lets say, 53 years ago today two twenty-one year olds left their parent's homes in the early evening and went to a local minister's home.  They stood there and promised to stick it out, through thick and thin, sickness and health.  Even through all the arguments people encounter when they live with each other.  And now, 53 years later, they are still together.  It's not small feat.  Many folks these days can't get to the third year of marriage much less the other fifty.  I am sure glad this couple did because I was born seven years after they said their vows. Yes, these are my parents!!  Happy Anniversary, Mom and Dad!! 

The Question Wmn Strikes Again

Due to my life experiences, I consider myself a survivor. I have dealt with all types of adversities, hurdles, etc.  Yes, I know everyone experiences these things, but some more than others.

I think there are several catagories for people and yes, they can overlap.  There are the survivors (people that have had a lot of real life issues they have no control over), life-livers (who go through life with very few real problems), exsistors (people who sit back and never take any chances), and life-suckers (people who drain others to whatever limits they are allowed.)

As I said before, I consider myself a survivor, but am now in the process of being a life-liver. 

Question of the day:  What catagories do you fall into?

Journal Entry Idea provided by Ray, the dog. Thanks Ray!!

The Last Friday Night

It's the last Friday night of summer vacation.  The countdown is on.                 

 

BUT.... on the upswing of that.... Three weeks from today I am flying up to Pittsburgh to see the first off-season game of the Steelers...  45 yard line and Level 1....  Yeah, I'm excited....     

Sleepless in Bama

Yep, you got it... Not sleeping.  Not a good thing.  Not gonna be purty tomorrow.  Yes, I yawn, crave sleep, and lay there.  Turn on the tv and put it on sleep-timer (the thing that almost guarantees sleep... thank goodness for the word 'almost') and nothing....   

Since I'm here....  today was a wonderful day!  Yesterday it stormed most of the day and the temps went from 105 in the shade to 80ish both Saturday and Sunday!  I got out today and drove with the windows down... what a feeling!!  Makes me wish I had a motorcycle....   

Yesterday during the storms, I watched a show on the Biography channel (yes, one of my favorites) about psych investigators.  On the show when a murder case goes 'cold' and one of the cops calls in someone with powers to 'read' the scene....   It seems so real and i guess they can turn the story to make it seem so real....  But you know, every time I watch something like that I have to think that if it were so real, why wouldn't every police force have one?  And why don't they have one come out for Jon Bennett or Nicole Simpson?     There is nothing I would like any better to communicate with a few people on 'the other side' myself...   

So, the question for this entry (you knew there would be one, didn't you?? LOL)... is:  What is your opinion?  Are there people that can really communicate with people that have  passed?           

Until next time....    

What If......?

I'm watching the Discovery Channel and the segment is the one with the never ending question, "Who killed JFK?"... Gosh, I've spent most of my life hearing this question.  But, I have a different question.  WHAT IF he  had only been wounded, never killed?  For me, this only brings questions that will never be answered. 

How would the world be different? or would it be different? 

What would have been the lineage of Presidents?

Would Nixon have become president?  If not, then probably, no Watergate.

Reagan, Bush?  And of course, this Bush....

Of course, there is the whole Viet Nam war... Would it have lasted longer?  Or would Kennedy have nipped it in the bud before it went on as full force as it did?

We will never know the answers to this questions, but you have to admit, would have put a different spin on it all...  All of our lives would be different in some way...

What do you think would have happened?

The Vacation

I've been a little out of pocket last few days, so I thought I'd let you know what's been happening!   You'll never believe how exciting it's all been! 

   My friend Dog flew over to PA, picked up MA, Patrick and Moon, then flew down to Atlanta and  got Susan, sis/hubby and flew over here, got me, Marion, Doyle, Bobby, Sus/Rick, and several other friends and family members. We flew west and made a couple of stops there, one in NV to get Surfer and one in CA to pick up Chuck and a few others.  There were others, but the crowd grew to such numbers, I can't remember everyone that was there (forgive me if I didn't mention your names... it's really all a blurrrr at this point!! I'll post pictures as soon as I can download them!).  All I know is the 747 was packed to the max!  We all flew out of LA and then onto Hawaii! 

      There, we found a remote island waiting just for us, that had a five-star hotel with all the luxuries and amendities  we could ever want!  Since this trip was sponsored by an unknown source who sent word we could indulge ourselves in whatever we wanted, WE DID!!  The spa, resturants with the most wonderful chefs in the world, the white sand edging the bluest water I've ever seen, the fishing trips out in the ocean for deep sea fishing, everything you could ever want!!  We had a laui one night with dancers and tasty food were the talk of the next morning!  We all tried to sleep as little as possible in order to enjoy everything available! 

   After 4 wonderful days of splurging, we were reluctent, but loaded up on the jet for our return trip home... all tan and tired....  We reversed our trip over and I just got home about two hours ago!   Working on very little sleep, I am now going to shower and head for a nap... I'll post the pictures later tonight or tomorrow!!  Thanks for a great trip, Guys!!  Luv you all!

 

  Now....  I have a bridge out on highway 67 that is for sell.....

What Rights Would You Fight For?

I have been looking through a catalog from Sgt. Grit Marine Specialties (www.grunt.com) catalog this morning.  Included in the usual paraphernalia is a section with bumper stickers. There are the usual Marines are better type of sayings, but there was one that caught my eye.  It says, "You only have the rights you are willing to fight for."  It stopped me right there.  I began to ask myself which rights am I willing to fight for?  If  you are like me, you take all of the rights our country has put into commission for granted.  I enjoy being able to do, say, go, observe whatever I wish within my own limits and desires for the most part. Yes, I would fight to keep these rights if put to the test!  Are you willing to fight for what you already have?  What rights would you fight for?

Semper Fi

Is it time to move already?

About every two years I have to reorder checks.  And for the past several times that I've needed to reorder checks, I have needed to move.  I have needed to reorder for some time now, but have hesitated because I love where I live.  I know, I know....it's just coincidence this happens, but after about 3 or 4 times, you begin to expect it.  And I just finished the guest room!!  Where will it be this time?? 

                                                             

What's Your Theme Song?

Your Theme Song is Back in Black by AC/DC

"Back in black, I hit the sack, I've been too long, I'm glad to be back" Things sometimes get really crazy for you, and sometimes you have to get away from all the chaos. But each time you stage your comeback, it's even better than the last!

 

Blogthings - What's Your Theme Song?

What was I thinking?

As most of you know, I live in a small rural area here in Alabama.... AKA, the country!  I grew up in one of the larger cities here in Alabama and over the past 7 or 8 years migrated farther away from city life. 

Today, on a invitation from my friend Bo (who is working summer school 1/2 days in June in a different school system than the one I work in), I went over to 'check out the kids'.  Some I've worked with before and other are new.  The visit was great!  Getting there and back home was the problem...  I can't believe the traffic in such a small area!!  Stop, ease up, stop....turn, slow down, stop, go, turn, stop...  and then, just a plain ole 'STOP' for the train while it sits there blocking six lanes of traffic  .... Good grief!!  It's not like this is Atlanta or something!!   

Yes, it was lunch time, yes it was Friday, yes, what was I thinking????    

I'm a MOM!!!!!

Yes, I'm a mom... ok.... owner of a dog, we're still bonding....  And you are asking, how did this happen??

I went to Guntersville this morning to visit a friend.  When I got there, I noticed a new dog among all the other ones he and his wife have collected over the last few years.  They have a wide variety of dogs and cats for that matter.... When I got out of the car, this little dog was right there waiting for me to scratch behind his ears and give a pet...  My friend told me they have had him about 3 weeks now and probably a 'drop-off'... you know... the kind of thing that happens out in the country a lot of times.

When we got back from having lunch, I step out of the car and here is this little guy...waiting for me it seemed...  I pet him, love on him and say, 'I'd take you home with me!!' and my friend said, 'PLEASE DO!!' 

I brought him home and found out he needs a little work in the house-breaking dept. and put him out in the back yard... A perfect place since it's huge AND fenced in!!  I did have a little scare when I opened the gate to feed him and he ran out.  I'm thinking, oh great....  and sit on the sofa to check out the mail and see the little guy running up the drive!

I think  his name is Mike.  What do you think?  He looks like border collie mix and is on the smaller side of border collie.... 

Summer Update

As was reminded by Chuck's Dribble from his entry yesterday ( It Ain't Just Me -- It's All o' Us) , we all are getting rather slack in making entries.  I know I have.  I've thought about writing and have even started a few times.  But what to write about?  Is my life that boring?  Dang, I guess it is....  but if you don't enjoy it, just blame it on Chuck!!    

I am recovering my surgery that occurred just over two weeks ago.  Was not emergency, but something that needed to be corrected my health, attitude and self-esteem.  I am doing well from it with very little soreness left at this time. I began driving only a week ago but have not really cared about going/driving anywhere.  I'm just happy to have the time for recovery.....

The class I am taking is online, thank goodness.  I only say that because of my surgery. This online-class stuff seems to be the trend of many colleges and it really isn't my favorite way to take a class.  There seems to be a lot missing for the same amount of outrageous fees.  There is no class interaction, a lack of true instruction by the professor and the ability to sit on the back row while drawing fabulous art work and puffy-letters to color in during that instruction while rolling your eyes at the little dumba** twenty year old girls that have the perfect nails/teeth/clothes/figures that mom and dad can buy, but they are lacking in the attic dept of life.  Yeah, yeah I know...  give 'em time....  Ok...  time's up. 

During this break between school years and the online class, I have had more time for watching wonderful and delightful television shows such as COPS, Living Single, The Biography Channel, the History Channel and Hallmark channel.  Sometimes, I even fit the news in, but dang, it's so depressing!!  People get killed either in the war or here by others that don't care about humanity.  They need to remember the #1 rule in my classroom:  Keep your hands to yourself.   And don't forget about the other #1 rule:  Mind your own business.  One of my favorite #1 rules concerns the answer to the question, 'Why did you do that?'.  Most of the kids will answer, 'I don't know.'  Guess what?  That answer does not fly with me.  Take a minute, think about what you did and give me an answer even if it's the wrong one!  I can live with that.....  Maybe W needs to fly me up to D.C. so he and his staff can take a few notes.....

One of the things I did learn from watching COPS and Remo, a cop (his journal is private, and that's to bad because he is an excellent blogger), is that if someone is huffing spray paint, gold is the preferred color.  I could how they think it's attractive by the gold metallic residue on the guy's beard. At least he was calm.  Wonder how many cans of paint he had to huff before he got where he couldn't even remember his own telephone number?   Sad isn't it......  Self induced retardation...what a bummer....

And on that note, until later my friends.....