He said, "I Do"

Daddy got married Friday night. I managed to walk down the aisle with heels, hose, dress AND a lit candle, walk up steps, light the unity candle, and back down the steps. The good news is, the church is still standing. Tonight is Sunday and I have not heard from the newlyweds. I'll just let them call me.

BTW, I have 2 more sisters and 2 brothers, as well as a bunch of nieces and nephews (or is it one niece??) I have not even really met yet. Family gatherings are certain to be interesting....

Thanksgiving with the Odd-Wads...

... at least, that is what our little group was named by one of it's members.

Members consisted of:

3 gay men

2 divorced women

1 married couple

Named so because none of us (with the exception of the married couple) has a 'typical' family situation.

Lots of fun was had by all.

I loved every minute of it!

Hope your holiday was a hoot!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Just a word or two before I hit the road. I'm headed up to TN for the next few days and hopefully, it'll help me get my mojo back! As been the tradition for the past several years, Cousin is having family to her house. There will be fewer people there this year. Sister and hubby have decided to stay put in GA (I do understand. That is a long drive for a piece of turkey!), Dad and K can't make it up this year either. She has kids in their area, so they'll be with family as well.

In recent years, I've become more sentimental about Thanksgiving. It is part age, I guess. Sometimes, when I see how much I do have and how little others have, I am humbled by it all. I am thankful for my few pieces of family, my kids at school, my friends I see often, and of course, my blog'in buds!

I hope each of you have a wonderful Thanksgiving!!

A Little Voo Doo to Do...

This has been a real funky year. Again. Perhaps, I should just say, this has been a deadly year considering what has happened.

As you probably have noticed, I've come to a snail's pace about blogging and dang it, it's just because everything I've had to say since June has not been the best in the world. I just hate to get on here and bitch about stuff. But, I've decided to come clean with you people.

It started in March with the death of the mother of a friend. April, the father of a friend. In June, a good friend passed. Less than two weeks later, a good friend's grandson was born and died two days later. We had a lot of changes in our program at school and in a way, there was a death of the 'old way things were...' (if you know what I mean and know it takes time to get used to new ways/people). The end of August, the husband of one of our aides literally dropped dead on government property (not due to anything government wise, but just seems to complicate the issue). In October, another good friend's mom passed away unexpectedly. Less than two weeks later (less than 2 weeks ago), the principal of our school died . And then, this past Friday night, one of the kids in my class died unexpectedly. Yesterday was the visitation/memorial service. I'm still in shock about that one. We had not known him very long, but long enough it had an impact on all of us.

The reason I am writing about all this today is because I need for death to take a break. Perhaps, this is rather like a blogging 'voo doo' doll some people use to make someone evil go away. I need the death monger to go away!! The promise I will make for this to *poof* is to write more often about happier things.

BTW, December 5th is the day my dad is getting married. I hope they are happy!

*To purchase voo doo doll above: http://www.voodooshop.com/products/dolls/A14.html

Veteran's Day

Today, as every year, the ROTC department had a Veteran's Day program to honor those people who have served in the military. One of my kids has been attending ROTC class. He is a young man with a disability, one who treasures the history of the United States. He can name every president and most vice-presidents. He can correctly label a map of the U.S. as well as their capitals. He is truly amazing to me!! I have never been prouder than I was today as he stood before hundreds of students, faculty and guests and read to us what he had written about his feelings for our country, our military and those teachers in the ROTC department!! I wish all of you could have heard him! He spoke clearly and with confidence. Afterwards, I stood as I clapped (and teared up) and was as proud as anyone could ever be!

For all you veterans, Thank You!

And in the true spirit of Halloween....

(From novel) "My candle was nearly burnt out, when, by the glimmer of the half-extinguished light, I saw the dull yellow eye of the creature open..."





Mary Shelly

We have been reading Frankenstein in class. Last week, we started making our own Frankensteins beginning with doing an outline of each student. Today, we started 'decorating' them. Oh my gosh! What the kids don't realize is on Thursday when they come in, their Frankensteins will be dismembered. Then, they will all sit in a circle, and pull out a name and a body part from a bag. (The torso and head will remain in tact). Then, scotch tape goes into action!! Each student will have different legs, arms and hands! Plus, they are all bright colors like green, purple, red, yellow, blue and orange.

What is so funny is the way the kids think of their Frankensteins! They are an extension of themselves. One kid made a mustache on his Frank because he has been trying to grow one himself. It's a hoot. One kid made a muscle shirt and shorts for his Frank out of construction paper. One of the kids is making his Frank into an Elvis Frank, or is that FrankenElvis?

It doesn't matter. The kids are enjoying and learning. We adults are having a blast watching them and I guess at the end of the day, that's all that matters!

Quote of the day...

"A man's kiss is his signature."
— Mae West

It's a New Day!

Back in late spring, a couple, young and married just a little over a year, were expecting their first child. He was due in July. However, as babies often do, he decided to come about three weeks early. Due to complications no one expected, least of the doctors, Jesse was born with so many complications he was rushed to different hospital. Two days later, he passed away. Jesse still lives in the hearts of his young parents and grandparents. These people became good and close friends to me since moving to this community five years ago. My heart was so broken for them all!

Anna, Jesse's mom, wanted to let people know how important Jesse was to them and how thankful this family was for those two days with their baby. Anna found a website where she can let this be known and is asking for help in purchasing another piece of the same equipment that allowed them to have those two days.

As many of my regular readers know, I usually don't post these types of requests because you get them as well as I do in the form of spam e-mails that snopes will tell you in a heartbeat isn't true. However, this one is true.

Here is the link to read a little more about Jesse.
Online Lifeline : Huntsville Hospital System

Thanks to all who read about him!! If you are so inclined to make a donation, I do appreciate it!

Jackie

New Journal, New Post

Just trying it out to see how it all goes....

News on the Bama front:
Almost all of Mom's stuff is out of the house.
Dad is getting married Dec. 5
Fall break ended today...

Lessons from our annual fall farm trip.
Kid walks up to horse and says, "She is so Beautiful!!"
Voice from behind, "Yep, HE sure is!" (it really was a 'he')

Lessons about Longhorns:
Non-academic adult attending field trip: "Look at the longhorns he has!!"
Kid: "It's not a he, it's a she! You can't tell a boy from a girl by the size of their horns!"

Kid posing with fish just caught:
"Ms. Jackie!!! Take my picture with my fish!" (poses)
"Now, take one like this! (poses) and like this (Poses) and like this (Poses)...."
(can you say a ham??)

"I'm gonna have a hot dog, a hot dog. I'm gonna have just one hot dog, a hot dog."
(typical everyday conversation for this kid)

..... That's all folks!!

Tommy Lee Jones:

"It starts when you begin to overlook bad manners. Anytime you quit hearing 'sir' and 'ma'am,' the end is pretty much in sight."

 

The changing of the trees is moving as quickly as the passing of AOL journals. Many may ask why I care so much, I've not written much lately. Very rarely these days can I think of something that isn't depressing as hell (death, illness and marriage), so why bother? However, I do enjoy reading the journals from all that I have subscribed to and will miss reading them without having hunt and search for them in different areas.

 

As for myself, I've not decided if I want to begin a new journal right now. I wish I could just pick up and go for it, but I'm just not in the mood. However, I will be reading all I can find online and good luck to all my journal buddies!

 

And who is Sarah Palin?

Imagine, if you will, a group of teens ranging in age from 14 to around 21. These teens also have various levels of disabilities. The discussion is the upcoming election in November.

Question from Teacher: Who is Sarah Palin?

Answer: Country music singer

QFT: Where does she live?

Answer: Nashville

QFT: Who would you like to see win the election in November?

Answer: Obama

QFT: Convince me he is the man for the job.

Answer: He will raise taxes and he is for the war.

You gotta love this job.

BTW, about 5 weeks ago, my Dad told me he is getting married on February 14. About 2 1/2 weeks ago, they told me they had moved the date up to December 5. I hope they will be very happy.

 

Tags: questions, Sarah Palin, Nashville, marriage, dad, nuts, dates, happy

Remembering...

Today is the seventh anniversary of the 9-11 event that causes us all to take a moment to pause and reflect upon one of the worst cases of terrorism the world has seen. Whenever I think about that day, the first thing that pops into my mind is my friend Jimmy, who writes StupidSheetGuy. He actually experienced and survived that day. He also has a friend who's daughter was aboard Flight 93 that crashed the same day. He has created a tribute to that fateful time. J-Land Remembers...

Today, we have all (probably) seen the pictures from that day, pictures that will be in our minds whenever we think of the tragedy.This past summer I made the thousand mile trip up to NYC and saw Ground Zero seven years (almost) later for myself.

Big difference, huh? Construction continues on a 24/7 basis.

This is where the new memorial will stand when completed. (Where the yellow machines rest in the photo.)

 

This orb was originally on the WTC Plaza. It is in the original condition found after 9/11 and is now located in Battery Park. In the lower left corner is an eternal flame that burns in remembrance.

 

Lady Liberty still holds her torch for Americans.

The date in the corner is wrong. It is supposed to be 6/4/08.

Tags: 9-11, World Trade Center, Statue of Liberty, terrorism

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And the good news is...

I tried to drink a glass of wine tonight. It didn't work well. My face felt like it was on fire and it still does. I poured it out.

The kids have not disappointed us in the way of entertainment this year. Some really funny ("The bad (insert name here) is here and doesn't give an ape I'm not gonna say that other word!") and some not ("Go straight to ISS, do not pass go, do not collect $200") so funny. It's only week three and 165 days to go. I've never counted down this early before.

Yep, Daddy is talking about getting married. He has not asked her, but the date is February 14 and will be a church wedding. They have now been dating for all of 4 weeks. I told him it doesn't sound like he will have to ask, she has already decided. He has said she is already making plans to re-do the house, move all my mom's stuff out and wants the house when he dies. After asking questions he didn't have any answers for, I suggested he go see an attorney prior to saying, "I do". I even volunteered to go with him. 'Nuf said about that. My sister is coming over from Georgia this weekend. It will be interesting to say the least.

Danged wine. Just when you need it....

Tags: kids, countdown, seniors marrying

The good news this weekend is I filled Rusty (my truck) up to the tune of $3.35 yesterday. First time my gas bill has been under $40 in a while. Thanks Dubya for suggesting home drillin! Also saw a lot of people pulling their boats down to the river for a change. We've not seen a lot of that around here this year.

School, you ask?  Let's not talk about it right now. It's going along. Maybe everything will fall into place really soon.....  I will not whine about it. It has to get better.

Cousin and her husband stopped by this morning. They have a friend that moved from Indiana down to Alabama because she married someone. We all had breakfast together and a wonderful visit! Y'all come back now, ya hear??

BTW, word on the street is my dad is thinking about getting married. He phoned me other evening and asked if he and I could have dinner together on Thursday night. Added he had something to talk to me about. I think he's already talked to other folks about it. Namely, cousin and her husband. I do know the girlfriend and Dad have talked about. He isn't wasting time. I think they've been dating about 3 weeks now. I'll keep you posted.

 

Tags: Dubya, school, Dad, girlfriend, marriage

And the trial run is over...

School started right on time Thursday morning. Well, right on time for us, that is! And that means, behind as normal. And it was packed! A new class was added to our section, bringing with it four kids and as many extra adults. (One of those is another teacher. Yippee! She gets to teach math and I get to teach the fun stuff <grin>.)

Our class has grown to the largest ever with 31 kids on roll. Rumor is #32 is just waiting in the wings to enroll and possibly, a #33 sometime down the line. If any of you ever win the lottery and have to much money, contact me. I know how to spend some of it for you in the form of tax deduction. You will make a lot of people happy.

Back to Thursday. With so many new kids, the 9th graders plus the other class and their adults, we had to rehearse going to class, showing them everywhere they are supposed to be, and just practice. Oopps. Make that model.... that is the new word for practice. Model behavior, model routines, model, model, model!!

Of course, one of the most fun things about the beginning of school is seeing how much the kids have changed over the summer. One boy is sporting a mustache (of course, you have to be close to him to really see it...hehehehe....), one of the girls has gotten much taller over the summer and is now a few inches taller than my 5'4.5"! As a bonus, she is staying calm. Boy! Eight weeks can make all the change in the world!!!

What about in the morning? We are all about the business of school.

Only 178 school days left!

Tags: school, crazy, growing up

It's 100 degrees, so it must be time for school to start...

Yep, tomorrow for me and Thursday for the kids. Funny, the system is supposed to make a 5% cut across the board, but they insist on starting school when it's the hottest. Apparently, whoever the 'they' are have never been in a very small room with 31 hormonal teensjust back from PE with sweat glands that work better than normal during those 100 degree days! No wonder we are experiencing global warming!

PPEEEEEE-UUUUUUU! 

We are going to have many added attractions to the circus this year. We are guaranteed to please and piss off many this year, depending on the way the wind blows over the 3-ring tent during the main attraction. Come one, come all... it's sure to be a show!

Tags: school, sweat glands, normal, 3-ring circus, main attraction

Musicals... in real life

Everyone knows you can't control your dreams. You dream what you dream...

Last week while sleeping, I dreamed....  and it was a muscial. I do that sometimes. I can't remember the content, but I do remember thinking, "Oh! Another muscial!"  Of course, I do know I was the star!

Question of the entry: Do you ever dream in a special way?

Here is a part of one of my favorite muscials...

Tags: musicals, dreams, The King and I,

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Summer Time

This summer is sliding by faster than me on a pair of roller skates. I have about two weeks left before I actually have to report for duty. I'll play this week, and make a few appearances next week, and work the next (... no comment... <grin>).

This year, the powers-that-be decided to add an additional class to ours. Our class will have approximately 31 kids. Then, the same powers-that-be moved one of my aides. Should be interesting, to say the least.

Since this is my last 'play' week, I decided to make another trip up to see Cousin and her hubby. Besides, Charter is not providing the services I need in order to make entries, write e-mails or even IM with anyone. Other day, the second tech came to the house. I was just thrilled because, for once, the service wasn't working when someone was there. I go running out to meet him and in a rather frantic mode tell him to hurry up while it's not working. He just grins and says, 'Are you afraid it'll start before I get in there?'  LOL... yeah, as a matter of fact.... <grin>

The phone & internet service only works at certain times. My friend Bo told me I lived to far out and I needed to get a pole like they had on 'Green Acres' because that was going to be the only way I was going to be able to talk to anyone. He is about right because I had no service up until the time I left to come to Cousin's. However, the tech with the cute answer (see previous paragraph) gave me his supervisor's name and cell number. He only asked me to wait until Tuesday before I phone. I have a feeling I will be phoning as soon as I walk into the house. Oh yeah, I forgot to tell you, in addition to having very little phone service, I rarely get a cell phone to work there. Bo just sighs... and tells me to get a pole. Again. <grin>

Here's to the last of the summer fun. Hopefully, we'll all have a little enjoyment!  

 

Tags: summer, charter, pole, phone, none

Award

As many of you might know, I am a reader of Jimmy at Jimmy's Journal. Jimmy makes daily entries with the exception of the weekend (He is usually re-couping from his Friday night antics.... ooopppsss... did I type that out loud?? ) However, during the week, readers have been encouraged to nominate people for the CAT award (you need to read his journal for specifics) for those lovely people who screw up. ROYALLY, that is. Just recently, I read his journal about a man who, looking out for his neighbor, decided to at least wound these would-be robbers. And I nominated this man for the TAC award. The only problem is, there wasn't a TAC (Thanks Alot Citizen) award. Until now. It came into view yesterday with the first awards being myself and Rose of 'Roses are Read'.

And now, I would like to thank Jimmy for the award by sending him a southern salute!

Tags: TAC Award

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The Star-Spangled Banner

The Star-Spangled Banner The National Anthem of the United States of America
by Francis Scott Key, 1814

Oh, say can you see by the dawn's early light
What so proudly we hailed at the twilight's last gleaming?
Whose broad stripes and bright stars thru the perilous fight,
O'er the ramparts we watched were so gallantly streaming?
And the rocket's red glare, the bombs bursting in air,
Gave proof through the night that our flag was still there.
Oh, say does that star-spangled banner yet wave
O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave?

This past weekend, I went to a funeral with Bo and his family. The man was a WWII vet and he received a military service, complete with the US flag draped over the coffin. Of course, with that goes the folding of the flag ceremony, playing of 'Taps' and flag presentation. Afterwards, I was sitting with Louis and Lillian (Bo's parents). Louis (who is also a WWII vet and recently got to go to D.C. to see the military monuments) began to tell us each fold of the flag represents 'something', but he didn't know what they were. I looked it up and with today being July 4th (no, July 4th doesn't just mean bbq, beer and parties...), I thought I would share. I'm also going to print it for Louis and drop it by today. After all, tomorrow is his 86th birthday!

Flag Folding Ceremony

The flag folding ceremony represents the same religious principles on which our country was originally founded. The portion of the flag denoting honor is the canton of blue containing the stars representing the states our veterans served in uniform. The canton field of blue dresses from left to right and is inverted when draped as a pall on a casket of a veteran who has served our country in uniform.

In the Armed Forces of the United States, at the ceremony of retreat the flag is lowered, folded in a triangle fold and kept under watch throughout the night as a tribute to our nation's honored dead. The next morning it is brought out and, at the ceremony of reveille, run aloft as a symbol of our belief in the resurrection of the body.

(Wait for the Honor Guard or Flag Detail to unravel and fold the flag into a quarter fold--resume reading when Honor Guard is standing ready.)

1. The first fold of our flag is a symbol of life.

2. The second fold is a symbol of our belief in the eternal life.

3. The third fold is made in honor and remembrance of the veteran departing our ranks who gave a portion of life for the defense of our country to attain a peace throughout the world.

4. The fourth fold represents our weaker nature, for as American citizens trusting in God, it is to Him we turn in times of peace as well as in times of war for His divine guidance.

5. The fifth fold is a tribute to our country, for in the words of Stephen Decatur, "Our country, in dealing with other countries, may she always be right; but it is still our country, right or wrong."

6. The sixth fold is for where our hearts lie. It is with our heart that we pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.

7. The seventh fold is a tribute to our Armed Forces, for it is through the Armed Forces that we protect our country and our flag against all her enemies, whether they be found within or without the boundaries of our republic.

8. The eighth fold is a tribute to the one who entered in to the valley of the shadow of death, that we might see the light of day, and to honor mother, for whom it flies on Mother's Day.

9. The ninth fold is a tribute to womanhood; for it has been through their faith, love, loyalty and devotion that the character of the men and women who have made this country great have been molded.

10. The tenth fold is a tribute to father, for he, too, has given his sons and daughters for the defense of our country since they were first born.

11. The eleventh fold, in the eyes of a Hebrew citizen, represents the lower portion of the seal of King David and KingSolomon, and glorifies, in their eyes, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

12. The twelfth fold, in the eyes of a Christian citizen, represents an emblem of eternity and glorifies, in their eyes, God the Father, the Son, and Holy Ghost.

When the flag is completely folded, the stars are uppermost, reminding us of our national motto, "In God we Trust."

(Wait for the Honor Guard or Flag Detail to inspect the flag--after the inspection, resume reading.)

After the flag is completely folded and tucked in, it takes on the appearance of a cocked hat, ever reminding us of the soldiers who served under General George Washington and the sailors and marines who served under Captain John Paul Jones who were followed by their comrades and shipmates in the Armed Forces of the United States, preserving for us the rights, privileges, and freedoms we enjoy today.

http://www.ushistory.org/Betsy/more/folds.htm

 
Tags: Francis Scott Key, Bo, Louis & Lillian, Flag folding, July 4

And the good news is...

The buddy list re-appeared! Now the screen is balanced once again!

Yesterday's entry was so grim I forgot to add that my co-teacher is the proud father of a bouncing baby boy, weighing in at 7.13 & 21"!! Sawyer was born yesterday afternoon (July 2) at 1:40....  If he is anything like his dad, he'll be playing Auburn football in about 18 years! WAR EAGLE!

That's all for now!

Tags: buddy list, birth, football, Auburn University, War Eagle

Computer stuff: MIA

OK, there are just a few things tonight. Should I list them??  Probably. I'm good at that.

1. Chuck passed away last night. At least he isn't suffering anymore, but I'll miss his entries, that's for sure. 

2. Not long ago, I mentioned Adobe Flash Player won't load. It still won't load and I've done everything except take a baseball bat to the memory cards. That might be next.   

3. I lost my buddy list. I mean, it's just totally gone. Not that it's a huge thing, but it did fit just perfectly on the right side of the screen and made a perfect balance with the AOL Welcome when it's all tucked in. I've searched for it and can't find it. It's MIA and there is nothing up on the tool bar anymore that says, "Hey Jack-Ass, here I am!"

If you find it, please return it ASAP.  

4. You always hear about 'Hot-Flashes'.... does anyone out there suffer from 'cold-flashes'? You know the ones. They kinda creep in on you, make you feel like you're in a deep-freeze. For hours. In the summer??? WTF??  

5. At the end of May, I ordered 'Bundled Services' from Charter Communications. I have had both internet and cable with them for years. I've always had great service from them, limited interruptions, etc. Up until I added the additional services. Cable/phone/internet has all been a real pain in the asp since June 11. Part and really, most of the reason you've not heard from me so much lately. I have had 4 different guys come out and try to figure out why I keep dropping calls (and no, it doesn't have anything to do with cold-flash!)  And today, a new guy. I was glad to see him driving a Charter truck and not a flunky-service on retainer.  I also told them to get rid of the direct line to the Philippines and India. These poor people just can't understand the phrase, "Fix it or get your shit outta my house!"     

 

And now, for a much better list:

1. Monday, I'll be making a trip to TN to see "Dr. Bobby: Computer Proctologist" to take care of #3 & #4 from above.  He is my favorite doctor for many reasons. One, he won't be practicing proctology on me.  

And second, he is my longest-friend person I know!     I might need someone to hold my hand...

2. The Charter guy that came out today said for sure the problem wasn't in my wiring. It's coming from the road. He also said he reported it. We'll see how long it takes to get repaired, or those international lines will be heating up! 

 

Tags: Cold-flashes, Hot-flashes, Dr. Bobby, Computer proctologist, Charter really is sucking the big one right now, I'll miss Chuck, typical summer....

My Friend, Chuck

I was going to write this to my friend Mary, but I thought I'd just share with everyone.

My friend, Chuck, from Dribble is dying of cancer. I chatted with his daughter, Kate, earlier this evening. He is now bedridden and going in/out a lot. I've been crying since she told me.

I will miss him and his stories about all sorts of things from his printer that has a mind of it's own, his family, his experiences in the 'old-folk's home' and so many other varied subjects. He is also the one who urged me to begin writing when I was just a 'lurker' amongst all the journals. He is also a past special ed teacher. He advised me in difficult situations and made me laugh.

Thanks for everything, Chuck!!  I'll miss you!!

Tags: Dribble, Chuck Ferris, journals, cancer, dying, sadness

I don't often ask favors of my on-line friends, but I would appreciate it if you guys would stop by Chuck's journal, Dribble  and say hello. He is in his late 80's, and loves to blog. However, he is not feeling well these days and is taking a lot of medication. He loves to get comments in his journal. I'm sure it would help make his day to have a few new readers and comments to read!!

Thanks!

Tags: Dribble

Summer Fun

Yes, it's been a while. In fact, it's been so long since I've made an entry that I was just tickled to find AOL has added a lot of new 'moods' to choose from. Most of the time in the past, I would just skip that part because you were either just happy as a clam or pissed off at the world. Most of the time, I generally fall in the middle of those two, somewhere between 'just happy to be here' and 'madder'n hell'. 

I have had a gentle hint by a couple of people that I've not made an entry lately. In fact, over a month??  How could that be? Well, I gotta tell ya.... I've been on the road again!  Actually, not just once.... not just twice, but three times!

The first trip was to GA to see my friend Susan and her pit bull (who, thank goodness, just loves me to death!), Winder. As I mentioned, Winder is a pit bull who thinks I'm just great. I'll take that. Hey, after all, she is lovable. Did I mention, pit bull?? We had a great time. I almost bought a great rocking chair, but being Memorial Day Weekend, the store was tightly locked. Except for the chairs sitting out in front of the store. But, I gotta tell you, no rocking chair is worth the consequences.

The second trip was to NYC. One of the local schools had a surprise opening for the trip just prior to school being out. I jumped on it, because I will never get another deal like this one. The deposits had been paid, etc. We left out on Monday morning around 5:30 AM (ugh... not a morning person here...) and got there about 16 hours later. Yep, you got it. We didn't fly. Did you know the 'Big Apple' was that far from the foothills of the Appalachians? It doesn't look that far on the map! BTW, Virginia is a huge state to drive through!  OK, enough geography. Back to the story. I like NY better than I thought I would. After all, where I live the biggest store is the Piggly Wiggly and it's not even one of the largest.  We did the usual tourist route and went to see The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. And there's a little side-story to that.  I like to call it: "Bubba Goes to the Big City". Well, all of us pile upon our bus (no, not a school bus!) and arrive at the ferry dock. When you enter, you have to take off your belt, put your purse and pocket 'stuff' in a tub just like at the airports. As many of you might (or might not) know, all 'Bubbas' carry a pocket-knife with them. It's a tradition. My dad always did and so do most of the men around here. Well, Bubba kinda freaks out. The rule in these places is you don't get it back. Period. No debate. Most of the 'bubba's' I know are sentimental about their pocket-knives. You just never know when you need to cut something. Bubba and wife are saying stuff like they didn't know about that, etc. Well, Bubba finally found someone to take his knife and he passed inspection. All was well. 

In addition to SoL and Ellis Island, we saw Ground Zero, the sphere found during clean-up after 9-11. I couldn't help but think about Jimmy, from Stupid Too when we saw all those things. He actually experienced 9-11. I just can't imagine. I did get to see Donald Trump in person, the MET Museum  of Art, Central Park, Top of the Rock, a Yankees game at Yankee Stadium, and Times Square. There was a whole lot of walking and I enjoyed every step.  In fact, I ate all week and lost a couple of pounds. Go figure. We got back home on Saturday morning  around 10:00 AM. Whew! What a whirl-wind trip! It was a great trip!

The next week, I worked at school some. They are adding a new class to ours and I'm getting a much larger room! YIPPEE!! It will be great when it's ready.

Then, last week, I went to Birmingham (AL) for a week-long workshop on Autism. I learned some new stuff and reviewed some old stuff. What can I say?  I was sure glad to get myself home!!  I don't see many more trips this summer, except maybe up to see Cousin and her family. That is always fun, especially when the kids are down from Indiana.

*I was going to load some pictures of my NYC trip, but alas, I am having loading issues. I guess that means a trip up to TN to see my computer specialist, Bobby from high school. Stupid computer.

Tags: NYC, Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, Donald Trump, 9-11, Ground Zero, Museum of Art, Central Park, Top of the Rock, GA, TN, Indiana, computer speicalist, Bobby.

Reflection

As I mowed the grass today, I had plenty of time to reflect upon this past year. This upcoming Monday is the graduation for our classroom. A year ago, my back was so out of whack that the weekend before graduation I was taking all kinds of medications and almost non-mobile. In fact, I called a few of my friends and left messages. One friend called back just so I could hear my message. "Don't bother," I told him. "I do remember when I left it I had to replay what I had said because I lost track of what I was talking about!" Another friend just said, "Yep, she's taking meds!"

A year later, I am push-mowing the grass when I could almost not get to the bathroom. That, I feel, is an improvement! Also, last year, I was so grieving my mom's death. I had a few pity parties while on those meds, too. I still miss her, but at least I can get through most days without crying for her.

I know I've been lax about reading/commenting on your journal entries. It's not because I don't care (yeah, I'm sending the luv...)... I've just not been home very much. The weekend after St. Augustine, my friend Bo and I went down to Orange Beach. His wife's family has a house down there. It's nice and only about a 1/4 mile from the Bama-Flora line. Last weekend, I went up to Indiana with cousin and her hubby to see family. Great Trip!! (Thanks, T for the food, fun and family!) That Friday night after we all had dinner and the other part of the family went home, we played Wii. There were 5 of us girls aged 40-60ish playing. What a hoot!

I had planned to put some pics in for you, but just after I finished editing, AOL had other plans and poof. They were gone. I'm not loading them back up again today. Maybe next week.

Tags: Orange Beach, Indiana, Wii, old gals, poof hoot

It's been a while. I've missed keeping in touch with all of you guys. The last couple of weeks have been busy and loaded with fun.... not!!  Until this past weekend, that is!!

I hopped onto a puddle-jumper for Atlanta Friday morning, then onto a real airplane down to St. Augustine, FL, aka, 'The Oldest City in the US'. Founded by Ponce de Leon in 1513 at the location of stop 19 on your historic guided tour of the city, aka, "Fountain of Youth - North America's First Historical Site." That stop, along with seeing the oldest school house in America, was probably my favorite. The 'Fountain' area seemed rather scared to me as the guide told the story of the cross being discovered by a grounds keeper as he was in the process of digging to plant. Also marked was the area where Ponce took his first steps onto what he thought was an island. Truly an area to visit if you are moved by this type of thing.  Also, on the tour, visitors are given a drink from the FOY. I didn't take any chances... I drank mine!

BTW, a note about the Oldest Wooden Schoolhouse: St. Augustine, Florida.  It is smaller than my 13 x 15 'ish living room, complete with the upstairs for the head master and family to live. The kitchen is seperate from the school house becuase of the heat of cooking. What was used for 'time-out' in those days was a small area under the stairs leading to the living quarters. They called it 'The Dungeon'.... 

I fell into bed around midnight thirty last night, thankful I had the foresight to take today off. Yard mowing was on the agenda, as was the never-ending laundry list. Where is the technology of George Jetson (and his boy, LeRoy..) when you need it?  Heck, doesn't matter... I'll take now verus 1513 anytime!!

 

Tags: St. Augustine, Ponce de Leon, Oldest Wooden Schoolhouse, Fountain of Youth, magical waters, ships in the Atlantic, sailing with the stars, gates of the city, buildings still standing for 100's of years, surviving hurricanes, simply amazing,

Just a thought...

... if we do not like the ideas China represents, why are sending them so many of our jobs and business??

 

Inquiring minds want to know...

Catching Up

I thought I'd take a minute to catch you guys up on what's going on in the world of one Bama Woman. Last Monday, I celebrated my birthday by going to the local bowling alley for Special Olympic Bowling. It was like a real party! I will say, this birthday was much more fun than last years. I'm on a new year, a new outlook (that might last more than five minutes....) and just happy to be here.

This is the time of the year where I crack my knuckles around mid-night and head to bed. It's the yearly IEP time. This year has been easier than most because the guy that I co-teach with is helping to write them. He doesn't read my journal, but I'll give him a big shout-out "THANK YOU!" and a smile. He might enjoy the smile. Sometimes they are few and far between.

This morning while making breakfast of turkey bacon and sweet potato pancakes, I was looking out the window and this was standing at the back of the fence:

This is a picture I found online, but the real coyote looked just like this one. Plus, the real one looked over his shoulder too. Just a little 'living in the country delite'.... real life surprises, I guess. 

Down at the local gas pump, the price jumped from$3.09 to $3.19 in just a matter of an hour or two. Figures. And to update you on the price in Saudi, premium is remaining at a constant 46 cents while regular is priced below that. Yes, i know shipping plays on the price. Yes, I know taxes make a difference. But still..... 

Spring is playing peek-a-boo with us here. One day 77 with pollen tickling your nose, the next, rain and 55. I don't mind the rain. It washes the yellow-green off of Rusty.

Have a good week. Make the best of it. Hug the ones you love and make sure you tell them you love them. How will they know if you don't tell them?

 

Tags: coyote, gas prices, IEP, hug, love

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It seems that spring has finally kicked winter's asp. With the temps being around 66 and sunny, it sure seems that way. Cousin and I have done something almost close to nothing with the exception of just spending our time together and that is ok. We both need the reconnection to family at times.

                                              

Her grandkids will be here in a week or so and if I can figure out how to get back up here to see them, I will. I love those kids and let's face it, I might need someone to pick out my nursing home some day. Might as well be done by someone who has a kind thought about me!!

                                             

 

Guess I'll be headed home tomorrow.... just in time for the Easter Bunny to drop off something special for me. Hope it's something better than a hollow chocolate bunny!!

                                                      

Tags: spring, kids, nursing home, hollow easter bunny

We, Wee & Wii

I made the trip to McMinnville yesterday to see Cousin and her hubby. As always, it's been a blast.

WE: Cousin, C's hubby and I...

WEE: Little people on the screen, some with no legs....

WII: The set-up with games you interact with...

You have got to try this.... unbelievable!!!

Tags: McMinnville, WII, to much fun, you don't need anything else, everyone needs one, not really a commercial because don't you get paid for those?, spring break is early this year, easter is early too, lent is over and i didn't give up anything, I'm not even Catholic,

Rest in Peace

I'd like to take a moment to acknowledge one of the students from the school where I teach. Although not in my classroom, I have come to know her and admire her during this school year. In brief, here is a version of her story.

The week school began, she was diagnosed with brain cancer. It was removed and she began chemo. Around November, the cancer returned and this woman made a difficult decision.... she stopped with her treatments. Just a couple of weeks ago, she returned home in the care of hospice.She knew her time was limited. But all through this school year, she had one main goal. To graduate from high school.... and she did on Friday in a hospital about 70 miles away.

She died the next day.

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Spring Needs to be Sprung

Daylight savings time arrived early this year and I'm beginning to get the spring fever. I always get a little excited when I seen the daffodils popping their little heads into beautiful blooms. There are several batches around the yard and to my dismay, the weather last week about this time was snow. Early Friday morning on the way to work, I stopped and clipped a fistful of the bright, yellow bloomers. This morning, several of them were still sharing their yellow faces with us.

These guys are just screaming for spring, so am I!!!

Tags: daffodils, daylight savings time, spring, sprung, sunny, bright, beautiful

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It's in the Consitution!

One of my reading groups at school is a group of boys that wanted to study AL history this year. At the moment, we are reading how AL became a state and about the Constitution of 1819. There were several interesting items listed:

Governor elected by the people to serve a two-year term.

School property protected by the state.

Supreme Court where the judges are selected by the legislature.

Slavery allowed.

Roadways and waterways improvements funded by the state. This statement made one ask about the improvements. After thinking a couple of seconds about how to explain, I asked, "What do you see when you are looking at the road."    A couple of seconds pass....... and one boy finally answers:

 

'Dead possums.'

 

I swear.... You can't make this stuff up!!

Tags: AL, Constitution, roadways, waterways, improvements, dead possums

HOOP: There it is!

Saturday turned out to be a fun day. Our Lady Pats basketball team went to sub-regional's last week and won their first game. In fact, it's still out on if the other team actually showed up. Yesterday morning, the Lady's went up against an inter-city team out of Birmingham. Let's just say, our girls showed up, but they are to nice.  The other team racked up the fouls but there seemed to be some confusion over their girls 25 and 52. Makes you want to go, 'HHHhhhhmmmmm......' However, the support for our team was just amazing!  All three administrators were there, and more than half of the teachers, a huge amount of students showed up to rally our Lady's on.

We stayed for the next game that turned out to be so close. In the forth quarter, both teams were neck and neck. The team that won did it by one point and in the last 10 seconds of the game. Both teams brought out the crowd. The roar coming from the gym was just tremendous, with jabs chanted from both sides of the spectators! I half expected to see a brawl out in the parking lot afterwards, but everyone behaved themselves.

On to lunch with friends made it the perfect day!

Tags: high school basketball, girls team, jabs, taunts, fun, kids, friends, lunch

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The True Story of Charlie

First, I'd like to thank Mary for arranging the surprise birthday 'party' for Charlie! I truly enjoyed reading each and every comment left by all of you.

I've not really told many people here in J-Land about Charlie, but I've decided to share a few things about him today.

He was the most perfect child for me! Even though he had so many medical issues, his personality shone through the darkest hour. The smiles you saw in his pictures are truly the way he was during  his whole life... never seeing 'color' or wealth (or lack of it...).  He was friendly and loving with everyone he met. One day while we were at the local Barnes & Noble, he chased down a man, wheeling his miniature wheelchair just up to the man. The man would move away, Charlie would move closer. No, he would not hear of leaving this poor guy alone. Finally, I told this man if he would please just shake his hand, Charlie would be satisfied. Surprised, the man shook Charlie's hand. Smiling as if he had found the cure for cancer, Charlie turned the tiny wheelchair around and left him alone. I've often wondered if the man ever thinks of that moment.

He was born with spina bifida, had to have a shunt, a paraplegic, was MR, and at 4 years old, had a Wilm's Tumor diagnosed and had to have chemo. He had 24 surgeries and was hospitalized 28 times. He was the bravest person I've ever known. At birth, I was told he probably would never live past six months. He lived to be fourteen and a half. His body just simply shut down.

Reflecting on all he had to endure, I think he did excellent! Our life together was not perfect by any means. Due to his disabilities, the two of use were forced to live extremely simple. We had all we needed and I always tried to make sure Charlie had all he wanted. Even his wants were simple. A hamburger and milk from McDonald's or Krystal, watching Andy Griffith, Price is Right, In the Heat of the Night or his favorite, Jeopardy or going for a ride after I got home from work. 

During his last six months, I watched him both develop into being his own person,  and yet, watching his little body (only about 40 - 45 pounds) deteriorate at the same time. I will always be grateful for having had him as the one person, besides my parents, that influenced me the most. The work I presently do now is because of having had Charlie in my life. I've often wondered what my life would have been like if I had not had him and I don't think I would enjoy it as much as I do now.

Again, thank all of you for helping me celebrate his life!

Happy Birthday, Charlie!!

 

 

He would have been 25 today!

Tags: spina bifida, birthday, silver anniversary, beautiful soul

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The Price of Gas in Saudi

I e-mailed a friend that had to go over to Saudi to work for a few months. I gave a little of the 'local' news such as, the new Walgreens opened and I stopped by, it was still sunny at 5:30 in the afternoon and I went to school Monday morning around 7:30 with the gas price down at the 4-way being $2.79. I went to lunch at 11:30 and the price had shot up to $2.91. This afternoon, it had gone up to $2.99/gallon.

The response e-mail was this: In Saudi, it's 85 cents a gallon.  

Tags: gas, gallon, Saudi, price, WTF?,

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Sleepless in Bama

Well.... I've been awake about an hour... maybe more. Certainly not less. I have a rule... don't turn on the tv, go to the computer, turn on lights to read until it's been at least an hour. FYI, I'm not sick, worried or even stressed (at least, yet....).

But, since I'm up.....

 What is it about all the paid programming in the middle of the night on cable? Do they not already charge you enough money? They have to have paid sponsors, too?? Geez. If I had a job where I came home around midnight or later and wanted to watch a little tv, I would not be impressed.

What is it with the 'security code' things where you have the scrambled-ish letters? Can't everyone see one? And if you can't see it clearly enough, there is a button to click to generate another one. If you are already there and have put in an account number or password, why do you have to put in another that is viewable? If someone has your account number, goes to the same site, types it the info, will they not see a security code thingy? Am I missing something? Yeah, sometimes I screw it up just because my mind is busy asking these same questions..... 

Will our world be so different in 2000 years there will be archeologists running around trying to piece together our holiday decorations in order to figure out why and how we used them? Wonder what they will think of the lawn art that must be blown up? Or curling irons, books, or baskets? Will they think decorative items are 'idols' we worshipped? 

Well.... on that note.... I'm going to give sleeping another try. Happy Hump Day!

 

 

I spent the last couple of days at my Dad's. I had to take him in for another biopsy on Thursday morning. Results to be in Friday morning. However, after the conversation I had with the doc during the procedure I think the results are going to similar to those in August.

I have found out a few things about my dad because of the last couple of times he had this procedure. First, it doesn't take much to knock him out. Thank goodness he isn't a drinker. Second, when he has taken these drugs, he doesn't realize he is inhibited and limited. He gets up and walks around. NOT a good thing. After we got home, I was making him something to eat and he wonders into the kitchen. Unsteady on his feet, I told him to go back to his recliner. After a minute or two, I bring his breakfast to him only to find he is in the living room, bending over, almost falling onto the floor. He then rights himself, stumbles over his own feet, and begins falling, almost crashing his head into a piece of furniture. He lands laying on top of a table. Dang, Daddy.  He got so close to really hurting himself and not even realizing it. He kept saying he was ok..... That was when I got ugly with him.... asked him what part of 'sit down' didn't he understand??  My thoughts were, if he had hurt himself, there is no way I could have gotten him up because I am still having back issues.  He says he remembers it....

My friend, Bo, suggested I velcro him to his chair next time.  Honestly, I'm considering it....

Tags: Parenting parents, hurt, pain, drugs, velcro, chair, any suggestions?,

Thank you!

I received an award this week from Jimmy over at Jimmy's Journal. I am an honorary member of his group 'Area 51' that meets at least twice a week. Jimmy makes daily weekday entries and at times, gives a weekly 'Cat Ass' award for those  in the public eye that can make you mad! Sometimes, it's just the sound of their name that will make the heckles on the back of your neck rise!

Thanks for the award, Jimmy!!  Just keep the sunflowers and Bloody Mary's rollin in!

Tags: Jimmy's Journal, sunflowers, Bloody Mary's, awards, Area 51, friendship, Cat Ass Award, Thanks!

Mother Nature was pissed this morning!

Mother Nature is NOT happy and letting everyone know it!

Around 4:00 am, I was blasted awake by the sound of a huge roar that sent my house shaking enough to almost roll me out of bed. And that ain't easy! Turns out, we had tornados.... big ones.... at least they were powerful in the county just west of me. Not a good thing.....  from what I have heard, people were killed, homes destroyed and alot of property damage.

Tornado season doesn't really start until April. Just kind of fits with all the other weird weather we've had in the past year or so!

School was delayed until 10:00 this morning. Didn't matter to me.... after all, I was up and already showered and dressed when I found out. Cable was knocked out, too so it took awhile to find out via radio. Actually, cable is still out.

I hope all my Alabama readers are ok... just leave a comment for me!

Tags: Alabama, tornados, Mother Nature, school, delayed, cable out, read a book, get a life, do something else