Airports Bring Out the Worst in People

I am still in Philadelphia, yet I felt some blogger's guilt not posting for a few days.

Let me tell you about my first adventure. Not really an adventure, but more a glimpse into the self-absorbed nature of the air traveler. I've said it before on this blog and I'll say it again, people are at their worst at airports.

They lose all manners their parents once taught them. They lose all sense of empathy for others. They completely disregard tact and good natured kindness.

I am not saying that ALL people are like this, but it is inevitable that you run across at least one or two. That is exactly what happened to me more than once, but I will share my favorite.

The flight from Des Moines to Minneapolis was very average. However, I really needed to use the restroom after the flight. I stood up just to stretch my legs as we were waiting to leave the plane. A family behind me started pushing me into the woman in front of me. I let them get by and the woman in front of my turns around and snaps, "We usually wait and get off by rows. I have a plane to catch, you know?!"

Join the club, lady.

So, I said to her, "I was being pushed into you, not being pushy." Then, I sat down and told Tim what she had said to me.

Then, rude lady in front of me says to me, "I am sorry that I sounded snappy, but I have a plane to catch."

Join the club, lady.

I replied, "Yeah, you already told me that."

Then, she tried to redeem herself by helping a young mother with her bags. Whatever. She just added to my opinion of people at airports and planes.

A Step Closer...

I am leaving for Philadelphia tomorrow. We are on our way to look for our new home.

I was watching the third season of my favorite show, Six Feet Under, when I heard a bit of cliche wisdom right when I needed it. Ruth, the passive aggressive mother, told her son that life is fleeting. We can't just wait.

With this move, I feel like I am doing something people should do. I am stepping out of my comfort zone and doing something new. There is a lot of uncertainty with this move, but uncertainty has gotten a bad and undeserved reputation. Uncertainty offers risk and challenges. Two things that are often viewed negatively. I see them as my reward for the move.

I was at school today with a friend who needed to grab a few things from her classroom. I saw the 'new teachers'. I thought I would feel regret or sadness, but instead I felt glad. I felt glad for these new teachers and the opportunity they will soon receive.

I am one step closer to being ready for this new chapter.

A New 100 Things

I am considering making a new 100 Things list.

I wrote 100 things about myself last summer, but erased it because I was bored with it.

I think I can do better.

So, today, I will start my 100 Things list. I challenge you to do the same. It is a lot harder than it seems.

It will be something to look forward to on this blog.

Happy 29th Birthday, Tim.

I am baking a chocolate cake of my own for Tim's birthday today!

Tim is 29 today.

He is a simple man. I asked him what he would like to do for his birthday, and he said, "Watch the Cardinals on TV".

I asked him what he would like for supper for his birthday, and he said, "Easy Strognoff".

I asked what he'd like for dessert for his birthday, and he said, "Chocolate cake".

Happy Birthday, Midwestern Position

Today is the first birthday of my blog.

With such an important occassion, I thought I would link to a few of my favorite/interesting/revealing posts from the past year.

Put on your reading glasses and live in the past with me.

The Midwestern Position's First Year

Weekend

Do you know how long it has been since I have had a weekend to do whatever I would like to do with it?

Answer: At least a month.

Even though I would like to entertain you with escapades and adventures, all I have to show for my weekend is one strawberry-rhubarb pie that I made with loving hands. Most of my weekend was filled with walks, some quality time with my friend Jodi, babysitting for a friend, and bringing casseroles to a friend who just had surgery. Today, don't get too excited...I will wash and vacuum my car.

So, even though it may sound like complaining about a boring weekend, it is my favorite kind of weekend, a relaxing weekend. Maybe I will have more to write about this week as we will be in Philadelphia. Have a great Sunday.

My Golfing Secrets

Today, I start my fifth summer of golf.

I am the worst. Really. I am not just being self-deprecating here. No matter who joins our golfing group and no matter how many times they say my most hopeful of phrases, "This is my first time. I will be bad," they are always better than me.

I am not a competitive person, yet it just sucks to be so bad at something that you enjoy. I actually enjoy golf, yet am a miserable player. I think I like everything that goes along with the game of golf.

Golf is the only game that you don't have to run. You can have Diet Coke while you play the game. It is outside in a beautiful setting. It is a social game. I get to have a nice walk.

So, I am mentally preparing myself for some mild embaressment of hitting the ball onto a completely different fairway. Usually, some retired men in pastel colors just smile or shake their head at me. I smile and wave. Sometimes, I might even throw in a shrug of the shoulders.


I also do a lot of "self-talk". Here is my speech before I hit the ball...I am giving away all of my golfing secrets here.

"Okay, look at the ball. Bend your knees. Nice and easy.
Get under it."

I Love the Internet

I am overwhelmed. I am in the midst of apartment searching via the Internet. A place like Philadelphia has many, many, many apartments. We only have four days to find the perfect apartment.

Perfection might be unattainable.

Before the Internet, how did people do things? I mean, it offers itself up as the best resource for everything. I wouldn't even know where to start looking for an apartment if it weren't for the Internet.

So, today's shout out goes to the Internet.

Not a Handy Girl

Sometimes my drive to DO GOOD, turns into a nasty experience of DOING NOTHING.

Why do I feel the need to sign up to do something or say yes to something I know darn well I have no talent or interest in doing???

Does anyone else have this problem?

Today, I went into Des Moines to volunteer with some co-workers at the Habitat for Humanity project. At first, I thought to myself when saying yes to this event, "Sara, you can do that. You used to help your dad around the house." But my optimism soon transformed itself into low-handyman self-esteem as I helped unload the buckets and buckets of tools.

There were so many red flags that this volunteer experience was not for me. First, the tools that I was unloading were completely alien to me. They were all so sharp and electric. Which made way for another reason I should have stayed in bed. I have a fear of tools. I am not kidding. I even fear the hammer, or more importantly when anyone other than myself is wielding a hammer. What if they don't see me and I get those two teeth in my head. You never know! The final nail in my handyman coffin (get it, nail!), was when the leader of this project began instructing the group on their tasks. It was as if she was speaking a FOREIGN LANGUAGE! I had no idea what a trellis is!

I could go on and on about my misadventures being less than handy, like how before I even hammered one nail, I was stabbed with my own nail in the thigh. Or, how we were worked side by side with women from a local correctional facility and they were forced to wear name tags that said "Violator" with their pictures and names written underneath it. My "violator's" name was Shelby and Shelby liked to tell me about "her man" and whenever Shelby mismeasured something she'd say, "Well, Sara, you have to be precise. Now we have to do it over. Go get that two by four." I was not going to argue with Shelby even though I had yet to be trusted with the tape measure.

I did a lot of standing around today for the simple reason that I am not a handy person and I know that now. I should have known better.

The Start To the Summer of Fun

Yesterday was the last day of work for me. I thought I would be really emotional, but I wasn't. I think I avoided all the sadness by keeping myself busy. Instead of standing around and talking about how sad I would be when I left my favorite job, we stood around and entertained ourselves with rediculous humor.

First, we had a chair race tournement. We had time trials in the morning and the tournement in the afternoon. I am very proud to say that I made it to the final four. I was the only female among four althetic men. Sadly, I could not compete against the football coach. He smoked me. The afternoon was peppered with packing and final preparations for my empty classroom.

Finally, we met at a co-workers house for snacks and drinks.

Along with some 'ghetto s'mores' (fudge stripped cookies and marshmallows rather than the traditional graham crackers, Hersheys, and marshmallows), we sat around the fire pit and had an excellent time. It is one of those times that makes me wish we could sit till late, late into the evening. However, most were tired from a long day of chair races and packing.

Even though it was an end to something very important to me, my teaching time in Iowa, it is also the beginning to something special...the Summer of Fun. The fire pit was only the beginning.

Vindication!

I took a quiz last week to determine which Revenge of the Sith character I would be, and it turned out that I was Emperor Palpatine. He is really bad. He is even worse than Darth Vader. What does that say about me? So, I feel so much better now since this quiz was more in depth and I am now on the side of the Republic. I only wish she kicked butt like she did in Episode II. All she really did in Episode III was stand around and look sad and pretty.

Try It!

If...

Thanks to Dree at Chalkdust for tagging me to answer a few questions. I love it because I was suffering from a bit of blogger's block. So, I had to choose five of the following questions and answer them.

if I could be a scientist...If I could be a farmer...If I could be a musician...If I could be a doctor...If I could be a painter...If I could be a gardener...If I could be a missionary...If I could be a chef...If I could be an architect...If I could be a linguist...If I could be a psychologist...If I could be a librarian...If I could be an athlete...If I could be a lawyer...If I could be an inn-keeper...If I could be a professor...If I could be a writer...If I could be a llama-rider...If I could be a bonnie pirate...If I could be an astronaut...If I could be a world famous blogger...If I could be a justice on any one court in the world...If I could be married to any current famous political figure...

If I could be a gardener...I would have a large rectangle garden with nice, neat rows of peas, beans, strawberries, squash, rhubarb, and on an on. I would be a smart gardener who would plant fruits and veggies that would become ready at a variety of times. I would wear a fabulously big, floppy hat. I would like nothing better than cleaning and presenting a basket of freshly grown fruits and veggies to my friends and family. I would also make wonderful pies with the strawberries and rhubarb.

If I could be a librarian...I would hoard books. I would wait until books came to the library and I would not be a selfless librarian that would put the new books out...no...I would keep them for myself. Then, when someone asked if we had the newest KRAKAUER book, I would say in a very gentle, but whispery voice, "No. That is a very popular book. I'll put your name on a waiting list," as I gently tap the book under the counter.

If I could be a writer...I would write greeting cards. I would write funny and ironic cards. I would be inspired by cards like the one I saw the other day. On the cover it read, "Will there be dancing at your birthday celebration?...And by dancing, I mean alcohol." I laughed out loud, but I think it is because I think I have actually said that.

If I could be a llama-rider...I would name him/her Honey and tie her to the bike rack as I buy my groceries. Then, I would throw my grocery bags over Honey's back. I would buy Honey a snack in the grocery store. Everyone in town would smile when they saw Honey and I walking back to my house. They would say, "Sara gave up her Honda long ago for a Honey."

If I could be an athlete...I would be a bowler. Bowlers get to drink pop and beer. They get to eat snacks. They wear bright shirts and fantastic shoes. Bowling has no age discrimination. I don't think there is much training involved. I would be a great bowler.

So, I tag Melanie and Anna. I can't wait to read your answers! And for all you non-bloggers, go ahead and answer one in the comments!

May 28, 2005

Congratulations, Steve and Amanda!

Til' Tuesday

Here is the scoop in my absence...It is the end of the school year and that makes a teacher super busy. Also, I have a wedding to attend this weekend. You can look forward to a summer of almost daily updates after I get back from my weekend.

Have a great one!

Whoa...Deep

I have been pretty busy lately. Tonight is the first time that I feel that I can indulge my self-absorbed nature and write. On Sunday, I spent six hours at school working on report cards and packing my room. I am the type of teacher that NEVER goes in on the weekend. I would rather stay late and go early before going in on the weekend. I think it all stems from my first year where I did nothing but hang out in my classroom.

Last night, I fell asleep watching a movie called Guerilla: The Taking of Patty Hearst on IPTV. This might reveal my ultra-nerd side, but I was mad at myself for falling asleep during this movie because I had been looking forward to it, but I couldn't keep my eyes open.

Okay, now you know a little about where I have been the past three days.

I have two and a half days left of school. I can't believe it. My time at this Iowa school has gone so fast. My three years in Iowa have been good to me. If you plan on reading this blog over the summer, you can expect several thoughtful posts about my love of Iowa and how I will miss this corn loving state.

The students that I have this year in fourth grade, I had the same students last year when I taught third grade. So, in two and a half days I will say good-bye to the 25 ten year olds that I have spent 360 days teaching, working, laughing, and sometimes disciplining. Saying good-bye is part of teaching. We do what we can for the children when they are in our care and we send them on hoping that they can recall a smidge of learning from third and fourth grade.

When I think about it, I hope they can recall and use the tools of character more than math and reading. I hope they are kind and nice and caring and strong and brave. That is all I ask. If they can all walk out my door and be those five simple things, I will feel successful.

Movie Wagon

Tonight I saw Episode III. I thought it was good. Like always, they could have wrapped up the light-saber fights, but I get it. That is their thing. It cleared up a lot of questions for me with the story.

It inspired me to watch Return of the Jedi again to remember how it all gets wrapped up. It also inspired me to start my online video rentals again. I quit my video watching once school started because I would not have the time, but with summer vacation just around the corner, I will have lots of time.

So, what should I watch? I have been to three movies in 2005. Episode III, In Good Company, and Hitch. So, there are a lot of movies that I still need to see. Use the following rules when recommending movies...

• I don't like romantic comedies.
• I like comedies that are smart or have a bit of toilet humor in them.
• I like dramas, but not thrillers.
• I like movies that make me think.
• I like documentaries.
• I like period movies.
• I don't like animation.
• I like action movies with super heroes.
• I like most indie movies.
• I like old movies, but only if they are good. Like must sees.
• I love mafia movies.
• I like dark comedies.
• I very rarely re-watch movies.
• I only like Star Wars for science fiction.

So, if you want to recommend something, leave a comment. Please.

Sara Loves Kenny

Tonight I found myself cleaning my house while listening to my favorite 80's soundtrack hero, Kenny Loggins. Isn't he great?! It is perfectly normal to break out the cassettes from your childhood. I own the Footloose soundtrack, Beverly Hills Cop soundtrack, Phil Collins, and the Cocktail soundtrack.

I know, you are jealous. You wanted to listen to some Beach Boys' Kokomo tonight as you washed the dishes.

I think I needed an escape from my world tonight. I needed to venture back to the days when all I cared about was which scrunchy I might wear to school the next day or read over and over the love note that was passed to me during study hall. I used to sit in my room and listen to music all night as I spent my adolescent years away.

Cleaning and Kenny did offer an escape and some time to think through some things from work. Being a teacher is one of those gems of a job that offers great rewards, but some heartbreak too. Tonight, my heart is breaking for a little for one of my students.

I guess I just want people to be as nice as Kenny Loggin's super sweet ballads.

Happy 28th Birthday, Reddig

Is she hot or what?

And today it is her birthday. Happy 28th birthday, Reddig! She has waited so patiently for her tribute...

I've known this hot dish since 1990 and love my friendship with her!

I have met many funny girls in my life, but I don't laugh harder than when I am with this girl. Thankfully, she has many talents.

• Makes a mean tatortot hotdish
• Makes inappropriate jokes super funny
• Knows how to squeegy her car window when she is driving
• Sings a mean rendition of "Gangster's Delight"
• Organize your CDs in alphabetical order while shaming you at the same time for your untidy nature
• Dish about reality television like she like she was just voted off
• Says the very thing that someone just said and making sound like a totally original question or thought...so funny and so Reddig
• Calls me right when I need her to

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, Reddig!

Karaoke Magic

Box karaoke is very special. I don't want to say that it is better than singing at a karaoke bar, but it has its own unique loveliness about it.

Sitting around a large television with friends, a big book of songs, and some drinks, an evening of entertainment is just around the corner.

Friday night we went to a Korean karaoke bar where most songs in the book were not in English, but they had enough songs to keep us happy. I sang "Amanda" by Boston and "All Out of Love" by the one and only Air Supply! I guess I have a thing for weepy 80's ballads. I can't remember other songs that were sung...oh, yea...Sara and I sang "Gangster's Paradise" by Coolio. That was awesome.

Almost a Sick Day

All I can say about today is it started out looking rather dim, yet as the day went on, it improved by leaps and bounds.

• 8:00 AM-Wishing I had called a sub because I didn't think my raspy voice was going to hold up against 25 ten year olds.
• 10:15 AM-Knowing that after some Diet Coke, cough drops, and calm students, I knew I would make it.
• 10:30 AM-Receiving a friendly email from a special friend.
• 11:50 AM-Realizing in my haste and panic of sickness this morning, I had not packed a lunch. I had to eat the salad bar at school, but it was actually pretty good...or I was desparate.
• 12:30 PM-I thought teaching fractions was difficult, try teaching them the difference between area and perimeter. However, they impress me. They catch on with my multiple and sometimes over dramatic examples of fences and bunnies.
• 4:30 PM-Attends a wedding shower for a friend at work and have excellent conversations with many great people. I stay late to chat with the hostess. The snacks were terrific too.

So, one could look at this day and say, "SO WHAT? Sounds like a typical day to me."

That is right, and that is why it was such a good day. It turned out to be way better than being sick.

Black Out

I came home from tutoring last night to a dark, candle lit apartment. No. Tim did not plan a romantic evening. We were in the middle of a mediocre thunderstorm. This was unfortunate because I had tons to do. Tons of stuff to do that was difficult to do by candle light.

However, sometimes you just have to take a breathe and realize that there is nothing you can do to change it. I broke out more candles sat on the couch with Tim for some much needed conversation. We sat for about 45 minutes when we realized that the power was not coming back on. So, we decided to leave our little apartment to go to Target.

I needed to buy a wedding shower gift. I have been quite the resource for all my friends that got married after me since I was the first. I love to tell them what they should place on their registries that I left off and wish I hadn't. Anyway...I never buy off the registry because I not nearly creative enough. I figure, if it is on the registry, they want it. We wasted a good 20 minutes read greeting cards for fun. That sounds totally lame, but we laughed so it is a good thing. You should try it.

Then, hoping that the power would be back on, we ventured back to our apartment. NO luck. Still black. So, I packed in the dark. I styled my afro wig in the dark. I cleaned in the dark. Finally, we went to bed in the dark and just as we were setting our cell phones to wake us up in the morning, every light in the house came on. Relief. Then, I closed my eyes it was dark again.

A Stream of Me

Okay...stay with me here. You are about to enter into a stream of mindless wanderings in the mind of Sara...

• So, I think I must have a lot on my mind tonight because it is 8:45 and it has just occured to me that I have not had supper. Sure, it wouldn't hurt me to miss more than just one meal, but this never happens. I look forward to each meal. I made a delicious peanut butter sandwich. That should do.
• It is that time of the school year where everyone is talking about "next year". I hate it. I hate being left out and I am being left out of next year. I am a LAME DUCK teacher. I am still knee-deep in teaching and fighting ignorance everyday, but I am no longer called on to be on committees or make next year decisions. Maybe I should be relieved. But I think I will just be a little sad. It is not anyone's fault. Just feel sorry for me, okay!
• I am glad that Anthony Federov got the boot on American Idol tonight. It was long over due.
• Sorry to be so vague, but I have to. It is such an amazing thing when your reputation preceeds you and the perceived reputation is so wrong. Should I take a moment and correct the misperceived judgement or do I let them wallow in their ignorance of the real me? I have to say, more than ever before, I am letting people know the real me. It will be their responsibility to see for themselves who I really am.
• If you read this post tonight, I want you to take a moment and leave a comment. I want to know who is reading this blog. You don't have to sign in. You can leave an anonymous comment and sign your name. You can leave an anonymous comment and leave an "inside" comment so I know it is you. You can leave an anonymous comment and just let me wonder. I would love it all. I want to know if I have some readers.

Party Girl

I love to go to theme and/or costume parties. I remember when I was getting married and I was asked what kind bachelorette party that I wanted, it was easy. Of course, I wanted a 70's bachelorette party. I did not specify whether a disco 70's or hippster housewife 70's. Thankfully, both showed up. It wasn't until later, did I sport my full-on disco self at my friend Janelle's Flashy Disco bachelorette party. (See photo). It was great. I had purchased this funkalicious hot pink and sparkled dress. It was vintage and perfect. I went to the KMART where I was surprised to see that big, brown sunglasses with a little plastic, gold bling were still in style.

Another superb bachelorette party would be my friend Chrissy. We dressed in vintage bridesmaids dresses. Imagine...I am wearing a pastel pink frill, off the shoulder. But, the best part was the floppy pink hat to go with it. We were a hit.

Recently, we went out to celebrate my friend Sara's nuptials with printed shirts that stated a number of obscene things about her. Then, she sported a shirt that said, "Hi. I am Sara. I am the bride." I wish that I could post all of the inappropriate sayings that I meticulously printed on the cute pink shirts, but it might just change your opinion of me.

This weekend, I will attend another fabulous bachelorette party. My friend Amanda is getting married. We will wear wigs again (my favorite), feather boas, bedazzled clothes, and be very fun. I cannot reveal too much since I know that Amanda reads this blog, but it will be a night to remember.

It is never the drinks (even though, that is fun too), but rather the terrific memories that we make when we are out. This weekend will fill the void of having no costume parties to speak of for at least two years. I can't wait.

Public Radio Music

My freshman year in college, I was one of the lucky ones to receive a workstudy appointment. However, I did not want to work in some office where I would answer phones or scoop tater-tot hotdish onto plates of students as I sported a hairnet. No, I wanted a 'cool' job. I wanted a job that was unlike anything I had ever done before. Sure, I had scooped ice cream and washed elderly people's hair, but I wanted to do something that would be my first 'grown-up' job.

The work study employment board was full of desk jobs that had phrases like "administrative duties" and "food service". But after much searching and no settling, I stumbled upon the North Dakota Public Radio station that was located on our campus. The job called for "interest in music, friendly, and organized". That was me. Thankfully, I got the job where I was able to listen to two of the three stations that the radio stations ran. I answered phones. I wrapped up CDs and t-shirts for the public radio members during member drives. I ran to get the food for the announcers. I also typed thank you cards for members. But mostly, I sat at a desk where I listened to the radio. I walked up and down the aisle of CDs of the music library.

Unfortunately, I did not receive workstudy funding for the rest of my college career, but I continued to love public radio. UND had a great folk public radio station that highlighted non-commercial artists. It was a completely underappreciated station on campus and in town. They played this great show called World Cafe. (It can be found on most public radio stations.) That was where I first heard of Patty Griffin, Wilco, and Dar Williams.

So, during my trip to Minneapolis, I was brought back to my college days with the underappreciated public radio station that played such excellent music when I listened to The Current, 89.3 for Minnesota Public Radio. They were playing Ray LaMontagne, Sly and the Family Stone, and Jeff Buckley. It was great. You can stream it to your computer and have listen yourself.

Diet Coke Dependency

We all have our little addictions. Some shop. Some drink. Some smoke. I claim to have many obsessions, yet only one true addiction. I know it is an addiction because when I can't have it or get my hands on it when I need it, I panic. This exact thing happened today in the teacher's lounge at noon lunch.

Back story...

My friend, Jodi, and I have become quite generous with our morning Diet Coke giving. One day, I will bring in two, cold Diet Cokes. Then, another day that week, Jodi will bring me a Diet Coke. It is a beautiful thing. So, today I didn't even have to go to the teacher's lounge for my morning fix of Diet Coke. Seriously, if I don't have Diet Coke flowing through my veins by at least 7:45 AM, I am not happy.

So, I enjoyed my bottle of Diet Coke all morning. I went to lunch with 50 cents jingling in my pocket, walked up the pop machine, and saw that Diet Coke and my runner-up, Diet Cherry Coke, was SOLD OUT! It was like a scene from a movie. The camera pans in for a close up of the panic.

I started ranting and raving about how I don't have a break in the afternoon so I can't even run and get a soda. Ugh. I am starting to get some strange stares from other teachers already eating their lunch.

But, then, like a super-hero, Jodi comes in and offers me one of her two extra Diet Cokes that she brought from home! Ahhhh...sweet relief. We fueled up for another afternoon of fighting ignorance.

So, the important lesson I learned today is that I should always...ALWAYS...have a spare Diet Coke on hand.

Attachment Issues

Today I had an "OH MY GOD!" moment. I realized that I had two and a half months left in Iowa. Everytime I saw someone I enjoyed or cared about, I thought to myself, "OH MY GOD! I won't see you everyday!" No one could see the panic in my eyes, but it was there. A person could have been talking to me about something school related or non-school related and all I am thinking is "OH MY GOD!"

It really depends on the day. Sometimes I can hide my emotions very well. Sometimes I cannot. Today, I think I did. I just wish people would stop talking about it. I just wish people would help me live a little deeper in my Iowa-Lovin' denial. I am at my best when I am knee-deep in denial. Not really, I am being a tad dramatic.

It is not that I am the first person to leave great friends or that I am not excited for this move east, it is that I get a bit attached. People try to make me feel better with statements like, "Well, you will make new friends." I KNOW THAT! I make friends easily. What they should say instead is,"Well, no matter what, we will be friends." I want to keep my friends.

I am messed up. I don't know why I worry about this. Is this normal for people when they move away? Honestly, I am a well-adjusted woman who is confident and secure, yet what is going on with this mental hang-up? So, if you are my friend and your read this blog, please assure me that we are chums and we are cool and we are, like my fourth grade students say, friends to the end.

PS...I almost deleted this post. It makes sound to CRAZY.

Gratitude Day

Did you know that today was Teacher Appreciation Day? Yes, I am sure that Hallmark probably decided that teachers needed their very own day just like Administrative Assistants and Nurses, but shouldn't everyday be about gratitude. Since I was thanked today with a nice lunch by the PTO, a card, and a mug, I will use my blog to give a SHOUT OUT to a few. We don't say those words enough. I know I do not. So, today is Teacher Appreciation Day, but it inspires me to say thank you to people that I don't thank enough...in no particular order...

Mom-Thanks for always taking time to talk with me on the phone. You never say that you have to go or that you are in the middle of something. You always have time for me.

Jodi-Thank you for our little talks, the Diet Coke, the M & Ms, the laughs, the dish, the code words, and the advice.

Sara-Thanks for our friendship. It has grown by leaps and bounds and I couldn't be happier.

Tim-Thanks for ensuring many laughs in my day. Thanks for my daily squeeze and smooch...Too much information? Oh, well. Thanks for helping me appreciate The Force, the Hobbits, the Vikings, and the Cardinals.

Julie-Thanks for getting me addicted to scrapbooking. I can't get enough of it.

Amy-Thanks for getting me hooked me to blogging, NYC, and karaoke.

Penny-Thanks for being the hippest girl around school with the most memorable laugh I've ever known.

Kecia-Thanks for the friendship because I found a fellow cool nerd in you. You love games, puzzles, television, and Target as much as I do.

Blog Readers-Thanks for checking out my little corner of the internet.

Now, if you felt left you, I am sorry. If you are part of my life, your name or likeness is bound to show up on this blog. So, if you want to have your very own shout out, you may have to post a comment or hang out with me.

Maple Vinegarette Dressing

Here is a recipe that I enjoy...

Maple Vinegarette Dressing

1/2 tsp. dried basil
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
1/2 cup real maple syrup
1 Tbsp. lemon juice
1 clove garlic, minced
1 cup olive oil
1 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. pepper

Combine basil and vinegar with whisk. Add syrup, lemon juice, and garlic with whisk. Add olive oil and season with salt and pepper.

My Guy-Friend, Steve

Girlfriends are great. Really great. A friendship with a woman can offer so much. Shopping trips. Long talks. Great advice from shoes to life decisions. Dish. Hobbies like scrapbooking and pottery. Did I say shopping? Without my girlfriends, I would be lost.

However, I know that I am one of the lucky ones. I have a guy-friend. After almost ten years of friendship, almost nine years of marriage between us (not to each other), and one state separating us, my friend Steve and I are still great friends.

It was a fluke, really. I met Steve on the very first night of college. It started out horribly. It was one of those hidious mixers that force freshman to interact with the opposite sex. My dorm wing was matched up with a male dorm wing and we HAD to walk to the dance together. UGH. Fortunately, I knew many people from high school and kept my eye out for them at the dance. I spied a classmate of mine and a group of people. My classmate introduced me to Steve, his new roommate. Being a lifelong North Dakotan, I was facinated with a person who would leave Boston, Mass. to venture to the great, white north that is UND.

I am sure that Steve was overwhelmed with my friends. We did kind of force our friendship on him. Whenever we went to dinner, we'd call our new friend Steve. Whenever we went to the computer lab, we'd call our new friend Steve. Sometimes, he'd answer the phone and pretend that he had no idea who we were, but we did not take a hint. Luckily, we won him over.

So, college continued. We graduated and made a promise that if we were ever in the same town, we'd call each other and try to get together. I have stuck to that promise and even if we can't get together, I call him as I drive through Minneapolis. We chat about every other week. I will be visiting him this weekend and I couldn't be happier.

I am always so pleased when Steve calls. I enjoy our talks and the perspective that he gives me. Like most friendships, I feel rejuvenated after a conversation with Steve.

What it comes down to is that I am glad that I forced my friendship on Steve. I am glad that when I call, Steve now knows who I am. I am glad that he finally accepted the inevitable...that Sara can make a pretty good friend.

Star Wars Stupid

I am Star Wars stupid.

Chewbacca. Tatooine. The Empire. Lightsabers. I just can't keep track of it.

I think it is the same problem that I have with Star Trek. They are not real words. They don't really exist. I just can't wrap my head around all the elements to Star Wars.

Sometimes I think it is because it is too complex. Sometimes I think it is because it is too simple and George Lucas is making it too complex. He takes a simple story about good and evil, love and war and throws in some messed up word like Mace Windu or Sith.

Even though I am impressed by the graphics and the visual spectacular that IS Star Wars, I want more story. I need more explanation. What is the Trade Federation and what are they trading? Why does Darth Vadar need the suit? Tim assures me that Darth's suit explanation will be revealed in this next movie, but I have been asking this question for over ten years.

A true fan would hate to watch the movies with me. All I do is ask questions because I get so darn confused. I am not a dumb person, but my mind just doesn't function well in fantasy land. Thankfully, Tim is a patient man who likes to tutor me in the ways of the force and the Rebellion.

So, as most people wait in excitement for the May 19th release of Episode 3: Revenge of the Sith, I am going through a remedial training session with rewatching Episode one and two, and the last three episodes so I will be ready for the movie.

My Day in a Nutshell

CAUTION: I am not clever, funny, smart, or thoughtful in tonight's post.

I never read my horoscope because I don't buy into that kind of thing, but I stumbled upon mine tonight...very interesting.

This is what it said...

Your deepest emotional needs can come to the forefront with today's position of the planets. Your desire to have things balanced in your life might become upset by such emotional force, and it's important that you don't blame yourself when you feel out of whack. There are times when it's more important to feel your feelings than to have it all under control! You can make a point of eating healthy meals this week as a way of counteracting the upset you may feel.

I would say that some of it matches my day, except the eating healthy part.

All that being said, I am the type of person who never has a bad day. Never is a very long time.

Usually, I might have just an OK type day, but today, I will go out on a limb and say that I had a bad day. I like to be positive. I like to help people look at the brightside of life. I am the one people go to when they have had a 'rough one'. I love to smile and enjoy my day. Without talking too much about teaching and my life within the school walls, let's just say that it was stressful and I didn't smile too much from 12:00 on (with the exception when I think my kids finally 'got' mixed numbers and improper fractions).

I was on the verge of tears, not once, but twice. For those who know me, that is really something in itself. I have cried only twice at school. The first time occured when I had just received the phone call that my lovely, wonderful grandfather had passed away. The second occurring when I started to tell my friends at school that I would be moving and not teaching with them next year. Today, I was able to control myself with just one tear hanging within my eyelid and the all-powerful anti-crying prescription of looking at the ground and got myself back into "Super-Sara Professional Mode".

I think my tears came from helplessness. I want to help. I want to do the right thing. I want to do right by these children. When I feel helpless, I get emotional. There is nothing I can think of but fixing or helping these children until they are fixed or helped. Let's face it though...I can't fix them. I can help them. I can move on from today and realize that tomorrow is a new, fresh day that offers a new opportunity to serve them. Cheesy, but all too true. I am a relentless person that will stick with a situation with a child until that situation is no more (or I am no more).

Name Game

Want to waste at least 15 minutes? Try this. My answers are in bold.

YOUR STAR WARS NAME: (First 2 letters of your first name and the first 3 Letters from your last name makes your first name. Take the first 2 letters of your mother’s maiden name and the first 3 letters of the city you were born in): Sadud McGra...my favorite!

YOUR MOVIE STAR NAME: (Name of your favorite snack food / Grandfather’s first name):Cheese Robert

YOUR FASHION DESIGNER NAME: (First word you see on your left / Favorite restaurant):Whistle Paradiso...my 2nd favorite!

EXOTIC FOREIGNER ALIAS: (Favorite Spice / Last Foreign Vacation Spot):Nutmeg Cancun

SOCIALITE ALIAS: (Silliest Childhood Nickname / Town Where You First Partied):Bun Grand Forks

“FLY GIRL/BOY” ALIAS (a la J. Lo): (First Initial / First Two or Three Letters of your Last Name):S. Du

ICON ALIAS: (Something Sweet Within Sight / Any Liquid in Your Kitchen):Syrup Tea

DETECTIVE ALIAS: (Favorite Baby Animal / Where You Went to High School):Panda Red River

BARFLY ALIAS: (Last Snack Food You Ate / Your Favorite Alcoholic Drink):Reese's Morgan

SOAP OPERA ALIAS: (Middle Name / Street Where You First Lived):Leann Cambridge...I used my college street since my street was a boring number!

ROCK STAR ALIAS: (Favorite Candy / Last Name Of Favorite Musician): MM DeGraw

Sara vs. Miss Teen North Dakota

There are not a lot of options for an athletically challenged girl like myself, yet I found a secret talent that did entrench me in the sports-centered world of high school sports. My talent you ask?

I do a mean split jump!

Yes, with the right tarjectory, I am quite the cheerleader. With my split jump and the not-so-well hidden skill of a yelling voice, I became a high school boys basketball cheerleader my sophomore year of high school. Like most athletically challenged girls, I did not have a clue to the rules of basketball. Sure, I knew baskets were good. Other than that, I relied on my keen sense of observation. I watched the clock for the breaks when I would run with the rest of the squad to the center of the court and jump and yell to our choreographed routine. Other times, I watched our cheer captain for when she jumped. So, there I was, the one cheerleader who always jumped two seconds later than the other four girls.

My cheer captain didn't just understand the game of basketball, but she was Miss Teen North Dakota. Really. She was a full-blown, sash wearing, bikini loving beauty queen. The entire basketball season, she would harass me about a makeover. She'd say things like, "Maybe you should, like, do your hair?" Um...I did do my hair. Just because I didn't have humongous bangs and curls galore didn't mean that my sensible bob hair-do was not "done"!!!

Away games were the worst. Miss Teen North Dakota informed the sophomore cheerleaders that we were required to bake cookies for the players. Who was I? Their moms?! Because I didn't have a full-grown backbone until my senior year, I baked like a fool. I baked cookies and was livid when Miss Teen North Dakota showed up with one dozen store bought cookies. For some perspective, I baked over 60.

The bus gave Miss Teen North Dakota plenty of time to plan her attack on my hair and make-up. I was able to fend her off for most of the season, but the final assult occurred at an away game when she said, "If you don't like it, you can wash it off." When her masterpiece called my 16 year old face was complete, I looked like a two-bit who didn't know any better than to let a bully dressed up in a pagent sash practice finger painting on my face. Needless to say, I didn't have time to wash my face before the game.

Miss Teen North Dakota, whereever you are, I am glad to say that I still have a sensible hair-do, still wear some nice, neutral eyeshadows, and touch up my lips with some lovely gloss only when I remember.

Dinner Party

Dinner guests always make me nervous. Tonight, I have invited some people over for dinner, yet I am afraid that whatever I make, they will not enjoy. I am not a bad cook. I am a novice, yet I have my standards for the occasional dinner party. I am a much better baker than cook, but that doesn't help build my dinner party confidence.

If I have a dinner party, I want to make good and unique food. I can make a hotdish/casserole any night of the week so I wanted to make a great salad, side dish, and main course. I wanted to make a main course that wouldn't fail. Considering this, I also wanted to make something that most people would enjoy without going home with indigestion because of my spicy entree. On the other hand, I like to introduce new foods to people. I love taking food risks, but not everyone is like me. There I go again...being self-absorbed.

So, here is the menu. What do you think?

Drinks-Red Zinger Ice Tea (or water, wine...whatever they choose)
Salad-California Cafe inspired baby spinach with bacon, pecans, grapes, goat cheese with maple vinaigrette
Side Dish-Roasted Asparagus
Main Course-Lasagna
Dessert-Fondue

Now, don't you wish you were coming to my place tonight?

Going Out Tonight

I am writing this post half in the bag. In other words, half sauced. Without knowing it, I had too many drinks and I was saying and doing things that I know I will regret in the morning. And I am left in the lurge. Do I mention the silliness and rediculous things that I said tonight or do I sweep them under the rug. I cussed too much. I spoke the unspoken too much. The best part of tonight was the fact that I hung with my very fun co-workers and closed the night with Tim. We laughed and laughed and laughed. My stomach hurt so much by the end of the night that I thought I would have actually worked my abs. But no...I don't work.

As with any night, I feel that my digital camera is a great tool for remembering all of the fun. As I scroll through the photos, I realize that I am very intrusive and rediculous. At one point, I thought it a good idea to take a picture of a person and looking at it more closely, I realized that they were giving me the finger. What???? I couldn't believe it. I thought everyone liked me. I thought everyone enjoyed getting their picture taken by me. The following is a thematic list of photos that were taken tonight...(and for you people that had your pictures taken and are nervous about being revealed on my blog...relax...far too drunk to upload pictures):

• photo of co-workers cleavage
• photo of co-workers profile after his request to check out his hairline
• photo of teacher from other school flicking me off
• photo of my favorite people that I work with
• photo of Pen-Pen talking, laughing, shouting
• photo of friend thinking about how he might be in the doghouse with his wife
• photo of co-workers modeling female sunglasses when he is very male

Man, I like going out with my pals.

*** I just woke up and seriously considered deleting this post, but whatever, I am just being honest.

Coffee Talk

Remember the days in college when you could call up a friend and say, "Hey! Let's go for a coffee." It was never a question, but rather a command. The coffee was always great, but it was the conversation that meant something.

The conversation always drifted into familiar themes of classes, parties, dating, roommates, or the all-too-uncertain future. We'd talk. And talk. And talk. I'd always leave feeling so satisfied. So connected. It is not that I don't have chums or fantastic conversations with them. I just want to be having these conversations with these friends in person, out of the work place, and not over the phone.

In my quarter and some life thus far, I have come to know that people run out of time to spend sitting and talking over coffee. Jobs, spouses, and children require more time with very little time for a nice chat. Although I am not neglected for conversation because I tend to force it on unsuspecting co-workers, I do long for the type of connections that were made over long talks and good coffee.

Target Girl

Is it just me, or can a trip to Target make everything right with the world?

No matter what you say, a trip to Wal-Mart or the grocery store just doesn't do the trick. Call me a discount store snob. I don't care because I am. Target is the only one for me.

The clutter-free aisles and brightly lit store help make my shopping experience a pleasureable one. When I enter the store, I always have a list, but because Target is so terrific, I know that I will come out of the store with one very self-absorbed item...maybe new lipstick, a smart belt, an aromatic pear flavored candle, or a hazelnut skim latte to go. Everything is better at Target. The gift bags are cuter. The greeting cards are more clever. The aisles are wider. And the have shopping baskets! Have you ever noticed that Wal-Mart does not have shopping baskets, only carts. They think they can fool me, but I am not the average shopper. Some nice, elderly lady who very kindly greeted me at Wal-Mart told me that they don't have them because they hope you'll buy more with the obtrusive wheeled cart. What they don't realize is that I might also knock down their rude toilet paper display that is directly in the center of the aisle because I have been forced to drive the cart. I've got their number!!

My Mental Hodgepodge

The following is a hodgepodge of the inner workings of my mind today...

• I was exhausted to from teaching fractions. It is one of those things that children/adults either get or don't. Children who do not get fractions are very hard on themselves if they can't reduce to the simplest form. I really want to tell them that it is okay, most recipes already reduce for you, but they don't need to know that. For now, I will continue to teach fractions and be very tired. It'll take a lot out of you as a teacher.
• It is perfectly normal to have poptarts for supper two nights in a row.
• How long can I go without doing laundry?
• Which online photo printing should I use? I have used Yahoo Photos, Snapfish, yet I was disappointed with Snapfish and want to try something different than Yahoo. Tonight, I am using Kodak. We'll see. I am all about the color and crispness of the photos.
• Poptarts give me heartburn two nights in a row.
• Should I rent or buy?

Midwestern Speak

I am glad that I can speak a little midwestern vernacular. Take this quiz and see your linguistic profile.

Your Linguistic Profile:

75% General American English

15% Upper Midwestern

5% Midwestern

5% Yankee

0% Dixie

What Kind of American English Do You Speak?

New Fave

Feeling like something new and interesting to freshen up your Monday?

Listen to Rachael Yamagata. I enjoy "I'll Find a Way".

You'll have to enter the site and choose the listen option on the bottom of the screen.

A Bit of a Rant

I hate the hands-off-approach to life.

It makes no sense to me. Why do people scratch their heads and ask themselves the obligatory question, "Why me? Why is this happening to me?". No, I am not all heartless and apathetic to victims of unfortunate events, yet at what point do people look in the mirror and accept some personal responsibility for the path on which they have choosen to travel?

Maybe it is too painful to look straight in the face of the person who made the poor decisions? Sometimes people cannot connect the dots and recognize that one action will lead to one consequence. Some people use the permission statement, "Well, I was just following my heart.". Whatever happened to common sense?

Mistakes are a part of a well-lived life. We should all mistakes, but is it so elusive of a concept to grasp that WE were the ones making the mistakes?

I am a harsh woman tonight. Don't mess.

I feel better that I got that off my chest.

Baby

So, Brittany Spears is having a baby before I am. Hmmm. This really puts everything in perspective for me. Please sense the sarcasm.

Six Faces of Sara

"Women are never what they seem to be. There is the woman you see and the woman who is hidden" ---Erma Bombeck

I love it. I love this quote. I will assume that it applies to more women than just myself, but from the first time that I read this quote, I connected to it. With years of friendship under my belt, almost five years of marriage, and a lifetime of family, you would think that someone out there knows the whole me. They don't. They can't. I like to keep a little just for myself. However, I think it is possible that some people know parts of me.

The Counselor-People tell me stuff. I am not sure why. From a very early age, people felt that they could confide in me. I am not always a listener because I do share what I think on the certain situation. You know me...I was the girl who guys would call to tell me how much they were in love with my best friend. Or girls would call me and be sad about a boy. Now they are women calling being sad about a man. I still do my best to hand out sage advice laced with some hearty common sense. I have recently taken on this role in my school environment. My co-workers will come to me and ask for advice. I do my best, but I still feel like I am in no position to hand out advice with only five years of teaching under my belt, by no means a veteran. My advice come with no strings attached and no judgement when it is not followed. My best advice comes when I care about the person. My worst advice is when I think the situation is petty.

The Knee-Slapper-I love a good time. More importantly, I like to make people feel at ease and comfortable. I like to connect to people through humor and laughter. My best friends in the world have years of laughter and stories behind them. On the other hand, my newest friends seem to be bound to me through humor. I am never afraid to make myself the butt of the joke. I encourage pranks and jokes. Inside jokes can be the best as long as no one else knows they are inside. My first reaction when I fail at something is to laugh at myself. I like to say something like, "Boy, that was terrible, huh?" Then, I laugh. And I mean it. I think I might do anything for a laugh...either at myself or someone else. The other day in my classroom, we were discussing how pioneers used to burn buffalo chips for fires. When I asked the class if they knew what it meant, one student said, "Yes, poop." I burst out laughing. I couldn't help myself.

The Wannabee-The lifelong search for fullfillment is my quest (or curse). I hate to sound so dramatic, but there is just part of me that wants to be EXCELLENT at something. I really think that very few people in this world are EXCELLENT at something. Like many, I feel very mediocre at lots of things. I don't say that to put myself down...that is just how I feel. However, unlike many people, I am searching and trying new things everyday. I reach beyond that comfort zone and believe that I will find that something. Maybe it is teaching. Maybe it is something creative. Maybe it is cooking. I am not quite sure. And really, would I really want to find it at the young age of 28? Then, what would I spend the rest of my life doing? I would search no more. Part of the fun is the search and sometimes the failure. I want to be something, but I am not sure what that something is. All I know is that when I try and try and try.

The Memory Keeper-Maybe it is the music, the smell, the time of year, but my mind is in constant memory overdrive. It doesn't really matter how many years, months, days have passed, I just like to think of people. I think to remember funny stories, touching moments, and words that were passed between me and another. I know that I hold most things to heart a lot longer than most people. Whenever I smell Bath and Body Works Sun-Rippened Raspberry candles, I think of the semester that I had my own room at the sorority and how I missed so many of my friends. They were all very busy and I was not. Whenever I hear the Christmas song "Sleigh Ride", I think of the dance recital where we danced around in a circle like horses. My friends and I tell the same stories over and over and over. We laugh just as hard as we have always laughed. It sounds strange, but I just like to remember. It is not living in the past, just remembering it.

The Reactor-I jump to action like your favorite super hero! Something needs to be done, I'll do it. Something needs to be fixed, I'll fix it! I was always the girl in class that would answer the teacher's question because I felt bad that no one else was raising their hand. A perfect example is my ten year high school reunion. I jumped into Super Sara action a year and a half in advance to plan the reunion. I needed to make sure that it happened. A little self-absorbed/control-crazy for sure, but someone needs to do and it might as well be me. What I have come to understand is that people like it when I do things that they don't want to do. And if I don't mind doing it, I might as well do it. Confusing...I know. Then, there is the not-so-good part of being a reactor. I have a VERY sharp tongue. Just ask my eighth grade algebra teacher. I have the ability to bite someone with words so striking that I have made people cower in an emotional corner only to return after a very remorseful apology. It is terrible. I have been working on this over the years. I know that it hurts people and I try my best not to do this. So, being a reactor can be good and it can be bad.

The Thinker-Always. If a person looked at me, they might think they know what I am thinking, but they are probably dead wrong. I like to think of scenarios in my mind. Even now, I don't want to tell what I think about. All I know is that these thoughts are all mine. No one elses. They are not unhealthy thoughts, just my thoughts. I don't want to put them out there to be analyzed by anyone. I like to think just as much as I like to remember.

There it is. Even now, there are parts of me that I could share, but will wait because this is one long post. My longest since NYC.

Party Time

I want to go to a party. The following is a list of parties that I'd like to be invited to.

1. Toga-I want to go to a fabric store and buy some kick-ass fabric and make a toga that would make Socrates proud. I would hope that people wouldn't just show up in some sheets from their bed.
2. Disco Party-I have not worn my afro-wig for over two years and it is time to break it out.
3. Battle/Dodge Ball Party-I would like to play some adult dodgeball. I think I have gotten over how my head used to be used as a target for a certain Amazon girl in my 8th grade gym class.
4. Fondue Party-Of course. It is my new favorite thing. Maybe I should throw a fondue party?!
5. Tiki Party-I want to wear a grass skirt and drink fruity drinks with umbrellas.
6. Pajama Party-I think I might be a little old for this one, but it still sounds fun. Movies, popcorn, and makeovers...that sounds great!
7. Bachelorette Party-Actually, I am throwing one of these with my good friend, Sara. This is the third bachelorette party that I have thrown. They have each had a theme like vintage bridesmaid to disco! We never do the traditional bachelorette party themes. So, I will be attending one of these in May.
8. Graduation Party-They have the best food.

Nefarious

I played the board game Clue tonight. They used the Vocabulary Word of the Week-Nefarious-to describe the goings on in the Clue house! And if I would not have tried to expand my own and my readers' vocabulary with Word of the Week, I would have been stumped over that word!

It's a Blogger's World

I have convinced three people to start blogs. Two of the three bloggers did not follow through on the blogging experience. HOORAY to Rachel for keeping up on her blog! As for the other two, well, I don't want to judge.

What I really, really want is for all of my friends to blog. I have advocated for this for a long time. I think there are many reasons why they do not blog.

1. They think they have nothing to write about. They think their life is boring.

WRONG! I will read it. This may shock you, but even my life can get boring. However, I never focus on the boring. I focus on the little things and share that with others. Everyone's life is a little boring.

2. They are afraid they will be judged.

This may be true, but you might be judged in a very positive light. You might be perceived as far more interesting and dynamic than you really are. And to assure you, I will not judge you for what you write.

3. They don't have time.

Hogwash. Everyone has time to document their daily existance and thoughts. When it is all said and done, wouldn't you like to think that you reflected on your life and the daily occurances within that life. It'll only take a minute. You also do not have to write everyday. I don't.

4. No one will read it.

BUNK! I will read it and read it faithfully everyday. I would like nothing better than to dive into someone else's day and thoughts. Also, if I dig you, I will link to your blog and then you will have more readers.

Please. I implore you. If you are my friend and you are reading this blog, extend yourself. Write.

Lately, I have discussed the idea of 'breaking out of our comfort zone' with a number of people. I want to do this more, but I also want to encourage my friends to do this.

Also, let me say that I know a lot of people lurk around on this blog which is absolutely FANTASTIC! Keep in mind that you can comment. Yes, you have to register with blogger, but they won't email you or bother you. It is just for the purpose of commenting.

A Good Friday

I played my first game of kickball for spring 2005. Man...I love my job.

Granted, I did lose my shoe at my first kick of the season. My shoe went flying into the air. I was wearing a jean skirt today so I was quite a sight trying to kick, get my shoe, and play a mean game of kickball.

And to make today even better, we fondued in my classroom! We read a non-fiction book about the history and making of chocolate. We discussed the different types of chocolate, tasted a variety of chocolate, and finally celebrated by dipping in chocolate. We dipped marshmallows, brownies, and bananas in chocolate. The kids loved it. I was so excited about the fondue and the kids having such a good time that I didn't even eat any fondue! I think it will be something that the kids will remember.

Grandma Taught Me That

My grandma Maxine passed away in November.

Over the years, I have gained some understanding and acceptance of the gifts that I have received from my Grandma Maxine. I felt a special connection to her since I was her only grand daughter out of nine grandchildren. The more I reflect on her life and the value she placed on the simple things, the more I come to realize how similar we are.

This weekend, my father and his siblings cleaned out her house and happened upon her journals. She kept a journal for over thirty years. The journal was not filled with emotional rants or torid events, but rather the simple and daily occurances of life on the farm. Stories of bails of hay and summer gardens peppered the pages.

Although I have not seen these journals, I can already imagine what they look and sound like because my grandmother was an exceptional letter writer. From the time I was very young, I corresponded with her through letters sent through the mail. She lived only two hours away, yet she felt that letter writing allowed for a thoughtful expression of herself. At her funeral, one of the things people said about Grandma Maxine was how she made you feel listened to and thought of through her letters. She was also an emotional woman. She did not fight back tears if they came. She recognized and reverred the preciousness in life. Keeping track and noting special events was a speciality of Grandma through not only her journal and letters, but also through her photo albums. Her photo albums were full of newspaper clippings of grandchildren and children. She organized her photos and clippings like a true scrapbooker by writing the names of people and places to remember for years and years. Again, it showed her appreciation for events, people, and effort given by those she loved.

Now, when I think about her, I come to understand our commonalities. My journal writing, and now blogging, has always given me an outlet for expression and clearification. I like nothing better to revisit my journals from high school and college and think about who I was then and where I have been. Although my letter writing has lessened since Grandma Maxine's death, I continue to write to friends and family. I email everyday to the ones that are important to me. I keep most emails, especially the ones that have something important to say or a thoughtful message of encouragement. I still write an occasional letter in the mail. I really should since that is what is left behind. I can imagine Grandma Maxine keeping every letter that I ever sent her from age six to twenty-eight.

My scrapbooks have become a place to document my life and the lives around me. I look forward to my old age when I can look back on these years and recall each special occasion like Grandma did with her photo albums.

Like Grandma, I feel that I have strength, yet can be emotional. Her arms were so strong that when she hugged you, you felt like you would never be let go. Although I save my tears for life's bigger moments, I feel, like Grandma, I revere the moments in life and recognize that they are happening everyday...the everyday, simple things. For Grandma, it was the bailing of hay. For me, it is a morning greeting to a friend or my phone calls to my parents. Each thing is special. Grandma taught me that.

Good Driver. Bad Driver?

Recently, I have been gaining myself a bit of a reputation. However, let me mount a defense for myself...

For years, I have prided myself on my excellent driving record. I would think there are not many 28 year old women that have never had a speeding ticket in addition to never even being pulled over for a warning.

Part of my good driving fortune comes from spending eight of my driving years in Grand Forks, North Dakota where the police officers have not varied their speeding dragnets for at least ten years. A police cruiser could be spotted in the local baseball diamond parking lot, parked along side of the university union, and waiting around the curve by the mall.

As for Interstate driving, I drive a reasonable speed that exceeds the maximum speed, but nothing that would attract the attention of a patrol officer.

Now that I live in Iowa, I respect and understand the two main drags that run through my little suburban town and always look to the left in the United Church of Christ parking lot when I take a trip to Target because, sure enough, the local fuzz is waiting for a target.

The only accident that I have ever had was in 1993 when I first got my driving license. I was driving home from my then boyfriend's house on a school night when a lady ran a red light when I was turning left and slammed into me. It was November in North Dakota so the streets were slick, slick, slick. My car did several spins with it finally resting near a light pole. Again...not my fault.

My friend Jodi says that she gets car sick when I drive. She says I am a 'jerky driver'. For the first time in my car, another colleague said that I was "practically in the guy's backseat" when referring to the car ahead of us. The icing on the cake came yesterday when my longtime friend Sara screamed, "Slowdown! Ahhh.....! My seatbelt locked!" I tried to assure her that I had the vehicle under control the whole time.

Maybe being a good driver means more than a lack of citations from the law. I think that I am very defensive when I drive, but maybe I am missing something. I was always the kid who parents allowed to drive when we were in high school because the parents believed that I was the responsible one. I am going with the theory that it has worked for me for 12 years and so I am sticking with my skills.

April Fools Day

Pranks and capers are one of my specialities. It all began in college when my sorority sisters and myself stole/borrowed a remote control from a neighboring fraternity.

Normally, I was an atypical sorority girl, yet the pranks, the toilet papering, the tricks were excellent fun. We took the remote to many locations and would take a picture of it. The remote went to hockey games, restaurants, parties, class, the student union. Then, we would mail these pictures to the fraternity president. We thought we were very clever because they did not know who was sending these photos. The remote was always by itself.

On April Fools Day this year, my friend Jodi and I wanted to pull a few innocent pranks that would not get us fired. After some deliberation, we decided that our principal was our easiest target. First, he has a great sense of humor. Secondly, he has some quirks about him that make him an easy mark. He is a neat freak, he adores Harley Davidsons, and we had access to his office since we come to school at the crack of dawn and he does not. However, on the day before April Fools Day, he made the comment, "Well, Sara, I hope you will be professional tomorrow," when we were discuss a different prank that was to be pulled on a co-worker. I had no idea if he was serious which then made Jodi and I question whether he would be a good sport about our pranks. Either way, it did not derail our intentions of a memorable April Fools Day at school.

The first prank of the day was placing a fake 50 dollar bill in the hallway where all of the teachers walk in. Many fell for picking it up. Jodi and I just watched and laughed.

Before anyone arrived at school, we changed all the picture frames in his office with photos that I had taken throughout the week of staff members. He is a Mountain Dew drinker so we placed empty Mountain Dew cans in his personal fridge. Because of his neat freak tendencies, we switched around his desk. He placed his stuffed animals into compromising positions.

Finally, we had taken some photos during the week. One photo was of Jodi taking a bat to his truck. Ryan sitting at the principal's desk with his feet up relaxing. Another photo was of Ryan reading his email on the computer in his office. I was in a photo talking on his phone. I digitally added a simple black box over our eyes to make it appear that it was a mystery who these hooligans were. Obviously, a person could figure it out. We emailed him these photos during the day.

The last prank of the day was spontaneous. A few teachers were chatting with the principal about where we would be going for drinks after work. I spied his truck keys on his desk and made eye contact with Jodi and then the keys. She knew exactly what I was thinking. We asked the secretary to get the principal out of the office for a few minutes. We snuck through the conference room attached to his office and grabbed the keys. We ran outside and moved his truck. Then, when we were all leaving school to have some drinks and he had no idea where his truck went. He found it, but rode with us anyway.

My mind just works in the way that is meant to develop and think of pranks. I had to behave a little since it was my professional workplace, but I am thankful that I work in a school that enjoys laughter and jokes...in a very professional way, of course.

Be a Big Nerd!

Driving down the road one Saturday, I came to the realization that I was a big nerd. Maybe it was the fact that I was reflecting on my four year old sandals with the broken strap and thinking how much I enjoy them compared to many other things in life, or it could have been the Monkees music blaring in the background, who knows? I just knew in a moment that I really like being a nerd.

I never thought of myself as a nerd in the recent past. I chalked it up to eccentricities. I even referred to it in this blog as 'quirkiness', yet it is time that we all face the fact that we are all big nerds in one way or the other. Whether you care to admit it or not, there is probably one, more likely, many quests, pursuits, or recreations that make you the nerd you were always meant to be. Be proud. Be nerdy.

True nerdhood is held to a high level of personal perspective. For example, one person might consider my obsession with this blog a bit of a nerdy endevour. I take pride not only in my committment to documenting my life for all to see, but also the creative outlet that this writing holds for me. How we choose to spend our freetime can reveal some nerd outlets. Tim is passionate about Lord of the Rings to the point that he wants not just one copy of the books, but two. In my view, isn't one enough? But who am I to hinder his personal nerdhood.

Let's consider music...I tend to wander into diverse genres, yet find myself enjoying in a very guilty way Olivia Newton-John and Abba. On the other hand, I can be hip...(see I am nerd for even saying that I am hip)...and enjoy Jack Johnson or The Shins.

A person can be a television nerd. If you are a Law and Order junkie like many of my kin or can't get enough of motorcycle/chopper shows, you are nerd. I have to say that I do not fall into any television nerdome.

What it all comes down to is the fact that it feels so good to be yourself. Being a nerd has really gotten a bad rap! I embrace being a nerd. We all should.

I think it would be utterly exhausting to be something other than myself. I would be missing out on all of my passions and schemes that bring me such self-absorbed joy. I will justify and explain my nerdy endevours to anyone who wonders how a 28 year old woman could obsess about such a variety of topics from goat cheese to Scrabble to pottery to itunes to buying new chapsticks whenever I can.

Be the nerd you really are. I am.

Time Crunch

I feel under the vice of time.

Everyday is bringing me one day closer to my last day in Iowa. (Sigh).

Even though I know that Philadelphia will be wonderful, new, exciting, challenging, and many other things I have yet to understand, there is something to be said for comfortable and known.

At this moment, I know that I will see people everyday who either understand me or accept me for all of my quirky clumsiness. I know that there are a number of people that I have just started to scrape the surface of connection. I know what to expect everyday yet can always be surprised by the day.

I could be melting down right now, but instead, I will take the advice that I give out.

Don't cry because it is over, smile because it happened.

And...it is not over, I have time. I just hope that others recognize the vice of time and want to make the most of the time.

Fondue is the New Black

"Isn't fondue what they used to do in the 70's?"
-My Principal

Absolutely! And like everything from the 1970's, fondue is one of the groovier obsessions that I tend to hold onto! True, for most of the 70's, I was just a twinkle in my parents' eye, but it seems to have cultivated a special admoration in my mind.

My introduction to fondue came far later than the 70's in 1995 when my friend Amy had a small fondue party at her house. I dipped for the first time. It was a wine and cheese sauce that showed me a whole new way to eat bread.

Unfortunately, I only registered for one fondue pot when I got married. Big mistake. Huge. Now, I advise all brides to register for at least three fondue pots because they will want to fondue cheese, meat, and dessert. Even though they may only break out the fondue pot once a year, or in some cases, every ten years, it will be worth it.

Dessert was the highlight of my Saturday evening. At The Melting Pot restaurant, I enjoyed cheese, meat, and dessert fondue, yet the dessert was very special. The S'more fondue was dark chocolate, marshmallow cream, and graham cracker bits which enveloped bananas, strawberries, brownies, pound cake, graham covered marshmallows, and pineapple. Our second chocolate (because one is never enough) was a dark chocolate with Bailey's Irish Cream mixed in for something special. Again...so good.

Fondue is a lot like that other shameful 1970's creation, DISCO MUSIC...everyone loves it, but no one admits it.

Tonight

Tonight, I think Tim and I will go out for pie and coffee. This is not only our dessert, but also our supper. I am not hungry enough for a whole meal, but I also saw the Seinfeld episode about the pie. So, I have a hankering for some apple pie. Tim will surely have cherry. I will have ice cream with my pie.

Tonight, I will play a mean game of Scrabble and hopefully beat Tim again. I beat him by three points last night. He was not happy. I thought he had surely beat me, but I am a stealth player. I do not celebrate in excess, instead, I play it cool. Then, my opponent does not know how well I am doing unless they ask or are keeping score. I usually volunteer to keep score. It is a strategy so people are unaware of the scores.

Tonight, I will download some itunes. My latest downloads include...
Kelly Clarkson-"Since You've Been Gone"

• Patty Griffin-"Every Little Bit"
• Stevie Nicks-"Stand Back"
• Talking Heads-"Once in a Lifetime"

Still Motivated

By the way...as an update on my new exercise and moderate eating style...I lost three pounds. It inspires me to get on that treadmill tonight. Going on week three and still motivated.

Stylin'

Am I the only one who leaves the hair salon unhappy? The unhappiness lasts as long as it takes me to get home and restyle my hair. Maybe it is self-absorbed to think that ONLY I can style my hair correctly, but it seems to be the case.

Maybe if I had longer hair and no matter what, it can always be brushed out or pulled up if the stylist goes tease-crazy, but when you have short-to almost-no hair, the one style is all you get. I like to spike my hair, a little, not a lot. I like a semi-wet spike, not a dry spike. I don't spike the whole head, only designated areas require the spike.

All this leaves me questioning whether to go through with plans for some funky coloring in May. I want something bright and fun to celebrate spring, yet I am concerned with the repercussion of this highlighting. On the bright side, I have short hair so whatever happens, it can be cut off in a short length of time. On the other hand, I want to like it. I know what the answer is even as I write this...I will continue to go to my stylist because she cuts it well even though her styling is not my style. I will also highlight my hair because I want to and my curiosity can't be beaten.

ipod love

As part of my psyche that feels that it is 16 years old, I broke down and bought a smart, shiny, lime ipod. I have been pining after this little baby for months and I now own it. I bought it as a sort of reward for myself for making to March...this can be a bit of a milestone in a teacher's year. Not that it has been a terribly difficult year, but it is the little things in life that make me happy. Right now, a little, lime thing makes me happy.

When I was picking out my ipod, I had a choice of four colors. For many months, the lime green had been my choice and for one brief moment, I was taken with the pink. I came to my senses and realized that green was for me. The Apple Man told me that green was the most popular color which made me second guess my choice, but I soon remembered how I am a mediocre, regular person who usually does what others do. I am one of many...not an individual. Anyway...I just wanted the green one to hold my tunes.

I bought the ipod that can hold 1000 songs. I could have gotten the 1500 song ipod, but I felt greedy and thought I could buy some clothes with the extra $50. If a person were to look and listen to my ipod, he/she would realize that I have a diverse musical pallet.

Bit-O-Goodness

Thank goodness for Bit-O-Honey.

If it weren't that lovely bit of sweetness, Nebraska would have been unbearable. As part of our spring break, we have driven to Denver. It was supposed to be a 10 hour drive, but we did it in nine. (Thank you, Nebraska, for the 75 miles per hour but I'll really drive 80).

We arrived at Tim's folks house. We have relaxed. Tim and his dad have golfed. Tim's mom and I have shopped. I purchased my first pair of capris of the season, hot-blazin' pink with smart light pink sash...I like a sash, but others say scarf or belt. I say sash...it is so much more girly.

Tonight, Deb (Tim's Mom) and I have been stamping invitations to his brother's grooms dinner. I love stamping. I love to create beautiful things that will be enjoyed even if it is only the time it takes to open the invitation and put it on the table. Tomorrow, the Denver Zoo.

Villanova won today! Yea! Yea!

The Big Dance

Every morning, I arrive at school and there is usually only one person there who arrives before I do. Ryan. He is younger than myself. He is a basketball and track coach. He is very sporty. He also will sing karaoke so we have that in common. He has a great sense of humor too.

Today, he came bounding in my room. Throws open my door and says, "HEY! Do you have your brackets all filled out?"

I am thinking, "Oh my god! Did I forget to turn something into my principal? What does he mean BRACKETS?"

He continued to tell him that today is like Christmas with the March Madness basketball tournement starting. Oh. I get it. It is a sport thing. Growing up in North Dakota I missed out on many things, but since moving to Iowa I have realized how important college athletics are to the rest of the country. We only care about college hockey up north. Football and bowl games, basketball and March Madness mean nothing to Dakotans.

Even when we tell people that we are moving to Philadelphia so Tim can teach at Villanova University, all they say is, "Good basketball team." I had no idea.

There is something that I just can't buy into with sports. I go for the snacks and the socialization. I was even a cheerleader only God knows why. I think it was the cute, now too revealing, outfit. And I knew how to jump and yell. I cheered for basketball but I never really knew when to cheer. Thankfully, I came to my senses my senior year and dropped that whole nonsense.

I will humor Ryan with interest every morning by asking him how his brackets are going. Then, he can tell me all about it.

Sara and Scott are picking Oklahoma State.

I say Go Nova!

One Exercise Rant

For the second day in a row, I walked on the treadmill.

Go ahead, pat me on the virtual back.

Interestingly, I walked for the 31 minutes yesterday and today. I burned 250 calories yesterday. 300 calories today. I must have been working harder today. Now, I just need to keep my motivation.

I gave away my girl scout cookies today. That is will power. I suppose I should think of a long-term goal, but I must think short term...day to day. Genetics did not bless me with the ability to eat whatever I want and stay thin. I must think about it. I must plan. I must do more than type on this computer. I was inspired by two things today. First, it was gorgeous out which made me think of summer. Secondly, I thought about how I love to shop and I love to shop for smaller size clothes. So, I have some dresses to buy for weddings and I want to enjoy wearing them.

I promise, I will not talk food, exercise, and weight loss everyday. It is always in the front of my mind, but I usually avoid places like the front of my mind.

And I am not one bit ashamed to post my weight with this handy-dandy graphic. We all weigh something.

itunes Galore!

So, I didn't wear capris today. I wanted to, but I forgot that I had recess duty and even though 50 degrees is balmy while one is inside. It is another matter when you are kid wrangling on the recess field.

My friends at work are incredibly generous! First, I helped my friend babysit on Saturday because she was not feeling very well. I didn't think about being paid. It was just fun to play Scrabble and spend time with kids without being their teacher. She thought I should be paid since she got paid and didn't do anything but rest. I could have cared less. So, she bought me the Deluxe Scrabble board with the grooved board so your pieces don't move and a rotating table board. It is excellent. She is very thoughtful even though it was completely unnecessary.

Then, my friend Heidi brought me 31 Pepsi/itune caps for free songs! Greg at work brought me three songs! And Rhonda brought me two songs! That is a total of 36 FREE itunes!!! Kid in a Candy Store! I can't wait. itunes does require that only 20 free songs a day can be downloaded. So, I will have some time to spread that out.

Capri Time

I am breaking 'em out.

I am digging the spring clothes out. I am in need of capris, bright colors, and sandals. I can no longer handle the putting on my boring gray pants one more day. Well, maybe one more day if it is cold.

Tomorrow is going to be 50 degrees and I plan on celebrating by sporting some capris.

Yea! Yea!

Health Nut, I am not.

Why do I hate working out so much. I just hate it.

I have no excuse because I have an exercise machine in my home, but I just dislike it. I dislike it as much as I dislike mustard and clapping. And that is a lot, my friend.

But, in order to lose weight, I must walk on that dasterdly treadmill. So, like everything in my life, I will track my exercise and health on my blog. No, I won't reveal my weight because that would be far to self-depricating, but I will tell you that I had three girl scout cookies and I am ashamed. Shame on me for enjoying those Caramel Delights/Samoas so much. I should just throw them in the garbage, but they are special. They only come around once a year and fortunately/unfortunately for me, I have 12 little girls that want nothing better than to sell cookies to their teacher.

So, I am saying right here, right now. I am giving my Girl Scout cookies away. Bold move, but needed. I am so good about stocking my house with only acceptable food, but when I am on the outside, I am a sucker for temptations.

Today, when I was brainstorming ideas about myself as I modeled an acrostic poem, I had to list things that I enjoy. I asked my students, most who had me in third grade as well as fourth, what I really enjoyed. The first answer...."food." Right on, my young...very honest minds.

I don't want to fall for the whole, "Life is short, eat." Not that there is anything wrong with being more voluptuous. I actually prefer myself heavier than my skinniest, but I know I can be a healthier person. I know that I can drink more water. Eat less junk. Exercise even though I hate it. I feel better when I do. I don't feel my bum shoulder as much. My hip doesn't hurt as much. So, that is it. Tomorrow is a new day. I need to change the QUOTE of the Week to illustrate my new found love of health and exercise....does that sound convincing?

How I Spent My Saturday

1. Finishing 300 envelopes for my ten year high school reunion. They are stuffed, labeled, and now sealed. They will go in the mail on Monday. That was just as tedious as stuffing wedding invitations.
2. Playing scrabble with an eight and ten year old girls. I helped my friend babysit these girls. I will soon start to tutor the girls with enrichment curriculum. I am not sure they need it. They beat me pretty well in Scrabble.
3. Eating leftover Chinese food that made me sick the night before when I ate it at the restaurant, but since I lack all self-control with food, I ate it again. Big mistake.
4. Babysitting a one year old and a three year old. We played some house. We sang some songs. We read some books. We played Mr. Potato Head. We played dressing up babies. They even went to bed without crying. I was invisioning what I see on Super Nanny.

A day well spent.

Sickened

I am normally in bed long before the late night shows begin. If I am awake, I am not normally watching them. Unfortunately, I caught The Tonight Show with Jay Leno. I was sickened by all his jokes about the Michael Jackson trial.

What is funny about child sexual abuse? Nothing. It is tragic either way you look at the man's guilt or innocence. I left after two jokes since I could see that this line of humor would continue through the entire monologue.

I think these late night shows that make jokes of celebrity life, current events, and other inconsequential events in our world, deliver a mediocre brand of humor.

Blogger's Block

Don't dispair. I am here. I am experiencing some blogger's block. Actually, I have just been swamped at work. Lots of kids with lots of needs.

I plan on writing more this weekend so check back.