Vivien Verbally

2002-10-14T18:47:00.000-07:00

Look for me over at http://www.livejournal.com/users/vivien529/

I'm trying it out there for awhile.

2002-10-07T19:24:00.001-07:00

Not a bad Monday. I really enjoyed Angel last night. Very fun episode. I am trying to finish a wriiten application for a position on a new elementary schools planning committee. I ahve a snowball's chance in hell of getting in (thosehired tend to be in the district already), but I might be remembered at least for additional staffin when the school begins next year. I REALLY MISS BEING IN A PUBLIC SCHOOL! I mean, really, really miss it. I miss my classroom, I miss dressing up for work, I miss my computer...wah.

Anyhoo...

HEE HEE HEE! This made me laugh. Cos it is so true, even thoug hI'm not nearly as bitter about the movie as I was in the past.

What type of LotR fan are you?
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The Monday Mission, v. 2.40

1. I just got back from a family reunion. It was ok, but I find those gatherings a little boring. Does your family ever have any reunions or annual get-togethers? Do you enjoy them?
My family doesn't really get together, aside from immediate family. My husband's family has a reunion for one of the branches once a year, and I enjoy going. I don't really have a desire to meet up with my full family though. I see my mom, gma, aunt, and mother0in-law about twice a year - and I wish I could see them more.

2. A gal I work with told me that when her husband's drivers license comes up for renewal, she swipes it. She says he won't ever pose for pictures and that's the only way she can get a photo of him. Is that not creepy? Are you a picture person? Do you like taking photos, and having yours taken?
Well, I can understand if the pic is any good ;) It's not hurting anyone and she's not foring him to take more oics that way. I am a camera whore. I don't mind getting my picture made at all.

3. Time for show and tell: post a recent photo of yourself!
Um, I haven't figured out how to do that yet.

4. I have a cousin I always knew as Jay. As he got into college, he began to go by Greg. Turns out is name was Greg, Junior. Jay was short for Junior! Can't blame him for changing it. Did you ever have a nick-name growing up? How did it come about? Did you ever give anyone a nickname that stuck?
My nickname was Schelly, and I am still called that by family.

5. Since I don't have cable, a friend promised to send me a few episodes of "Trading Spaces," the show where folks redecorate someone else's home (and I'm still waaaaiiiting on that tape). But that got me to thinking about how I'd change my own house if I were able. And the room I'd do first would be the bathroom. If you could design the bathroom of your dreams, what would it be like? Spare no expense!

Ye gods, to have a place to decorate instead of being in the white walls o' apartment living. My bathroom of dreams would have a spa tub with the jets in it and a separate shower. It would have a big linen pantry and a place to sit down in front of the mirror.

6. I've been trying to catch up on the early seasons of Buffy the Vampire Slayer in re-runs, though I've been told to buy the DVDs. But I think I'd rather borrow them if I could. But there are a few television shows I'd like to own on DVD (like "The Flash" and "Max Headroom"). What shows (if any) do you own in a video collection? What TV shows would you like to see collected on DVD or video?
I only have store bought Buffy season 1 and 2 on DVD so far. I have several X-Files eps, and I am starting a Smallville collection. I would really like to have the Simpsons on DVD.

7. I recently watched "Chitty-Chitty Bang-Bang" again, first time since I was little. It held up pretty well, unlike some movies that are better in your memory than they are when you see them again (like "E.T." good movie, but for me, better as a memory). Do you have any favorite movies from your childhood? Do you think you would still enjoy them if you watched them today?
Well, Disney brainwashed me - I admit it. I can still enjoy watching Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty, and Aristocats.

BONUS: Don't you know you're sleeping in a spotlight?
Yes, that's why I have my movie star sleep mask.

Today's comment question: What relaxes you?
Actually, being online is very relaxing usually. I like to lie in bed and watch the trees wave in the wind, too.

2002-10-07T19:24:00.000-07:00

2002-10-04T20:58:00.000-07:00

Just one more and then I'm done:

Which Buffy Episode Are You?
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2002-10-04T20:44:00.000-07:00

Bonibaru had it.

The romantic taxonomy of fandoms past and present (slightly edited):
Surpisingly (or not) Aspen and I share many answers.

1. The one who seduced you and broke your heart in a million pieces and laughed about it: The X-Files. (Damn you to a special circle of hell, Chris Carter)

2. The old flame you don't see very often any more but whom you still really enjoy getting together with for a few drinks and maybe a pleasant nostalgic romp in the sheets: Star Trek: The Next Generation

3. The mysterious dark gothy one whom you used to sit up with talking until 3 a.m. at weird coffeehouses and with whom you were quite smitten until you realized he really was crazy: Hmmm, well I'll put Monk in this category.

4. The one you spent a whole weekend in bed with and who drank up all your liquor, and whom you'd still really like to see again although you're relieved he doesn't actually live in town: Enterprise

5. The steadies: Smallville; Buffy the Vampire Slayer; Monk; Friends

6. The alluring strangers whom you've flirted with at parties but have never gotten really serious with: CSI

7. The one you hang out with and have vague fantasies about maybe having a thing with but ultimately you're just good buddies 'cause the friendship is there but the chemistry ain't: Angel, Firefly

8. The one your friends keep introducing you to and who seems like a hell of a cool guy except it's never really gone anywhere: Again, CSI

9. The one who's slept with all your friends, and you keep looking at him and thinking "Him? How the hell did he land all these cool babes?": Survivor, American Idol

10. The one your friend has fallen for like a ton of bricks and whom she keeps babbling to you about on the phone for hours, and you'd be happy for her except you just know it's going to end badly: Hee, well it was Smallville until I started watching it. :P

No surprise here!

Are you a Spike addict?
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And again with the no surprise motif with an extra added bonus of bwahahaha:

How Obsessive Are You Over Buffy?
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This, however, was a bit of a surprise.

Which Angel character are you?
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2002-10-04T20:28:00.000-07:00

Oof. It's been awhile, eh? I actually tried to post something earlier, but Blogger ate it before I could get it posted.

So...I'm at a different center now within the Head Start organization. There are 5 centers - I was supposed to be at one that is just now opening on Wednesday. But last week I was called in for a meeting with the directors who asked me if I'd like to take a position in a different center because the teacher they had hired just wasn't working out. This center is a much nicer one - it has its own little building with a playground (unlike the one I would've been at). Plus I got a better vibe from the staff there. And it isn't in a scary neighborhood! It's much closer to my home, and most of my kids speak English. But it is a very diverse class -muy multicultural. I have a few problem kids, but most seem very sweet. They just need to be whipped into shape - the teacher before me wasn't doing a very good job and had been absent a lot. I already was upfront with my superiors in the fact that I will be looking for a public school teaching job in the spring, but they are very glad to have me for this year at least. So things are much better.

And the new season of Buffy totally rocks. Yummy Ophelia! Spike rocks my world.

2002-09-19T19:09:00.000-07:00

Hoo boy. I have been a roller coaster of emotion this week. I hate my job, I might like my job, I want to do anythiing but this, etc, etc. I got out the Tao of Pooh again to reread - it is my Bible. It does help. Plus Mustang Sally's latest post really helped. This too shall pass. If it is dreadful when the children come, it is not what I have to do forever. I am looking for those teaching positions that come up for after Christmas to the end of the year. I am definitely looking for something else next year. But a year or a few months, I can do. Paul has made me promise to help myself by leaving as much of work at work. It is hard sometimes, but I'm doing good. I haven't brought a lick of work home, and I don't plan to.

I've been doing home visits with my bilingual para (who is actually quite nice). Wow - some of the homes I have entered have been of the scary. Many though are clean if shabby, and the mothers polite and trying hard. Most of the children have been adorable, but there are some who are going to be scary. Plus this place doesn't do behavior management like I am used to - no logical consequences or time out, just redirection. You're not even supposed to say "No". Yeesh. But this too shall pass. I will find something better, especially with the experience I am picking up. I was really reflecting how this job, difficult as it might be, won't be as bad as the forst year I taught kindergarten. I was at a charter school with no support, doing a grade I didn't have a clue as to how to teach. I had my first long commute to make, and I was tired all the time. We had neighbors who were extremely noisy at all hours of the night, and my marriage was in a bad, bad place. Plus I hadn't made any good friends yet. I would be driving in the morning, dreading going to work, seriously thinking about offing myself. So I think I can get through this year :)

Oh, and the YMCA gave me a free month of membership while I am figuring out whether I'll be able to continue financially as a member. That's a nice organization.

And now for something completely frivolous:

~Find Your Inner Supermodel~

What's Your Movie Dream Car?

by Auto Glass America

Oh deah gott, I LOVE Eddie Izzard.

HREF="http://www3.sympatico.ca/jen.coe/quiz.html">
Which Izzard Are You?

Movie Izzard: You're not just another pretty face, you're a pretty face on the silver screen. You are particular about which face you show the world, and you're very careful to make that face the most attractive. Your tastes may be a little more refined than some, but that doesn't stop you from getting down and dirty when the time comes.

tuesday this-or-that

1. Portland, Maine or Portland, Oregon? I'd gove Maine a try.
2. New York or New Jersey? New York.
3. Van Gogh or Van Halen? Van Gogh. But I like Van Halen sometimes.
4. Bill Clinton or Bill Gates? Gates. Yes, I know he's the Devil, but still a crafty kinda guy.
5. Leonardo daVinci or Leonardo DiCaprio? DaVinci cos he rocked the Renaissance World.
6. "American Pie" or "American Idol"? Once at band camp....
7. George W. Bush or Curious George? Curious.
8. Billy Joel or Billy Idol? Joel. He worte some very beautiful songs.
9. Donny Osmond or Donald Duck? Duck.
10. Dr. Seuss or Dr. Kevorkian? Seuss.

2002-09-16T20:15:00.000-07:00

1. Do you have a favorite piece of poetry or prose written by someone else? Care to share it?

You know, I really don't read much poetry. I went through a phase in high school, but it doesn't do much for me. Song lyrics are more meaningful. I do enjoy Edgar Allen Poe on a consistant basis.

2. In High School, did you enjoy creative writing? Do you currently do any other writing in addition to your Blog?

I was all about the writing in high school. Funnily enough, I wrote lots of poetry! I actually won an award for one I wrote from the Oklahoma Council for Teachers of English - went to the state capitol for an awards assembly and everything. Then I went to a summer arts camp in wiritng in which the jerk poetry teacher from USC trashed said poem and basically destroyed my self confidence in the area of writing. So I've written maybe two poems since then. But I did complete a fairly large fan fic story earlier this year located at http://www.fanfiction.net/read.php?storyid=481018 And I might write more!

3. Have you ever noticed that the Blog entries you least expect to get the most comments do, and those you expect to generate a lot of feedback don't? Which Blog entry of yours surprised you by getting a lot of comments? Which one did you think would generate a lot but didn't?

I reckon people read my blog, even if they don't comment. It's nice when there are comments.

4. Sometimes you get a chance to make a lifestyle change that has a huge impact on the course your life takes. That is, a moment where something became very clear to you, and that realization changed your life, such as: the need to leave a relationship, to stop an addiction, to bond with someone, to start a new career, and so on. Have you ever had an "awakening" moment in your life?

Well, deciding to move to Colorado with no friends, family, or jobs waiting for us was a big deal.

I am still awaiting a career awakening. I hope it comes soon.

5. Then there are other times where you can have a huge impact on someone else's life. You suggest they see a doctor, stop them from taking that last drink, or maybe just say some kind words at the moment. Have you made a lasting positive impact on the life of someone else?

I make, and made, a difference in my husband's life. Plus all the teaching of young children has been pretty big on the make a difference scale.

6. Are there any charities or organizations which you support? How did you come to be involved with them?

If I had lots of money, like Powerball winning money, I would be such the philanthropist. I wish I could send money to the Nature Conservancy, as well as local children's charities. However, with the amount of money I've "donated" to my classroom and students over the years as a teacher, I maybe already am a philanthropist of sorts.

7. Care to collaborate with me? Help me out and write the rest of this poem:

I drifted though a dream last night,
visions full of colors bright.
My thoughts began to drift to you,
and in an instant we were two.

I touched your hand,
We began to blend,
Filled with a feeling
that should have no end.

(insert poetry here)
But then the night was through
and just as you
moved your lips to say you loved me
I awoke and dreamed no more.

BONUS: Hey yo cutie, what's up with this attitude?

I thought I was being real good to you
I treat you sweet
I take you out at night
But you never say thanks...
Girl, that ain't right ;)

Huh,wha?

Today's PG-13 comment question: Where on your body do you like to be kissed?
I enjoy the lips, baby!

Well, i think the insurance company is giving the run around. I was called by the manager guy who said one of the two jobs had been eliminated and the other had been offered to someone within the company, but the deal wasn't done yet and they would call me. So I guess I will suck it up and do Head Start. For one year. Only. If I can get a teaching job next year, great. If not, I am am really going to work at trying something else. With better benefits. Cos man, that insurance job would've started at $30,400 - WAH! I so need to make at least 30K and have cheaper benefits. Whine, moan, complain....

2002-09-13T11:18:00.000-07:00

Hi - A quick note from the library near my temporary workplace. I am actually not doing a whole lot right now. We have to wait until our building is free to do any classroom stuff, and that won´t be until another building is ready for the program in what will be our building. Confusing, yes. So I am setting up home visits for next week, piddling with some little work, and wasting some time. I think this job will be fine once it gets started. I have mostly four years olds, with a handful of 3 1/2 and 5 year olds. They mostly speak Spanish, so I will probably be picking up more of a second language (even though I will teach in English) but my para speaks Spanish. Once she comes that is, I haven´t met her yet. I will do this for a year, but even if I like it, the pay is too low and the benfits are not really that good. I´m going to be paying so much for insurance, and my copays are outrageous. I will try to get a public school job. Again. Or at least have a better plan for a non ed. job. I still haven´t found what I´m looking for!

But I have a wonderful husband, excellent friends, and a supportive family. So really, that´s the most important thing.

2002-09-10T18:12:00.000-07:00

I just remembered the most powerful, striking moment for me during the aftermath of 9/11. When the Queen's guard at Buckingham Palace played the Star Spangled Banner. That just touched me so much, how a country so far way would do that out of respect and acknowledgement. The memory of it makes me cry.

2002-09-10T18:04:00.000-07:00

Monday Mission 2.36 from PromoGuy

I was going to write about this anyway, so here we go.

1. Where were you and what was happening in your life the moment when you first became aware of what was happening at the World Trade Center in New York City last September 11th? What was the first thing you did when you heard the news?
I was pulling into the parking lot at school when the normal radio newsbreak came on. The announcer was saying that there were reports of a plane crashing into the WTC building, but no one was sure what was happening. I remember the other DJ sounding confused. We had a staff meeting, I think, so it would have been about 7:15 mountain time. The image that flashed in my head at that point was a small private plane that lost control and crashed. I can't remember when the announcement was made about what really happened- it must have been in the meeting - that whole morning is really blurry. But when you have 17 little kids coming to school, you don't have time to find out facts. I was on my laptop a lot all day, and I have to say that my thoughts were not with my students. We had a lot of play time that day, as I looked for info on the internet. I talked with Paul a bit when I could and what he described he was watching was just unbelievable. He saw everything happen pretty much live. I left right after school that day, and came home to the live coverage. I didn't show any emotion till the next morning when we had an emergency staff meeting to talk about how to deal with our students. Then I just started bawling for a few minutes. I was so shaky all that day, but only one of my students even mentioned the event, and that was just to me, so we didn't have a discussion unitll more kids brought it up on Friday. By then Iwas able to talk about it too.

2. When those truly responsible for the attack are apprehended, what do you think would be the most fitting form of justice?
They will never be caught. If they ever are, they need to be tried and sentenced according to the law.

3. This will probably be much like when our parents respond to "Where were you when JFK was shot?"- an event never forgotten by those who were there. But how do you think the history books should present the 9-11 attacks? Should it be included for all future generations? How can we truly convey the shock, the outrage, the emotions and pain of that day to the children of our children?

Well, I think it was one of the most significant events in our nation's history, so yes it should be included. Many viewpoints and experiences should be included from all the different walks of American life affected.

4. No one in that building, in the Pentagon, or on the planes (other than the terrorists) knew that 9-11 would be their last day to be alive. For me, it brought home the reality that I could be gone at anytime, without any warning. Now, I really want each day to have some value. Did the events of 9-11 bring about a change in the way you live your life?
No, not really. I had learned that lesson before. In some ways, I was more prepared for 9-11 than others. I was in Oklahoma City for the bombing, in Denver for Columbine, so I've been through similar unbelievable experiences. I am a little more careful around my husband - he volunteered at the OKC bombing site for two days after the bombing, and he saw some very traumatic things. I watch him more closely around this time and around the end of April for post traumatic stress signs.

5. Several who loved to fly in planes will not step foot in one anymore. Many parents are more protective of their children. A year later, do you find yourself feeling more secure than back then? Or is it just a matter of time before something else happens?
I don't feel any different security wise. Things like this can happen no matter what precautions are taken. It is such a random thing. I am a little nervous about flying, just because of all the changes made with getting to the plane.

6. The best way for me to honor the those impacted by the attack will be to refrain from any media that day. No papers, no radio and especially no television. Others will light candles, and others will attend special services. What, if anything, will you do to personally reflect on the tragedy?
I am not really planning on doing anything special. I will watch some of the coverage cos I'm a news junkie, and I can process it better now. I am still very curious about a lot that happened that day.

7. One of the visuals that touched me the most were the walls and walls full of hand made "Missing" posters. What image will stay with you?

I think the ig thing for me was how EVERY radio statio had the same coverage on the way home. Almost every channel had coverage going on. The skies were so quiet without planes, and so much, like sporting events, just stopped. That period of intense focus on one event will always stick in my mind.

I didn't realize it last week, but I am going to my new job tomorrow for my first day. One heck of a work annivesary.

2002-09-08T10:24:00.000-07:00

Well, I am now employed. I've celebrated the fact heartily, and I am looking forward to Wednesday when I begin my new gig as Lead Teacher for a Head Start center. The pay is less, but I think I will be very happy. I've missed ECE so much, and I am so excited by the fact that there is quite a lot of professional development with this job. The CAYC conference is coming up, and I have so missed going. In kindergarten, you couldn't really implement much of the cool, fun stuff from workshops due to academic restraints. Now I'll be able to. Yippee!

I've had Lex on the brain all night (looks at Aspen and giggles). And I have a scene for a fic, if I can pull it up from my dreamstate.

So, um... what is a hierophant?

Which tarot card are you?

2002-09-04T14:06:00.000-07:00

In the miry fog which is my life at the moment, there is a light house. And it is called Smallville. Thanks to Aspen, I am totally hooked. There are very pretty people on this show. Lex is yummy in that morally ambiguous way I like em (re Spike). I am looking forward to Buffy as well, but in a "Oh dear God don't let it suck" way. At least my fall will be full of Lexorific and Spikey goodness.

I am getting my first unemployment check on Friday. Woo hoo! I have two interviews tomorrow, one for Supervising teacher (infant/toddler) at a Head Start and one for activities coordinator at a nursing home. The lady from the first Head Start called today - I think it was a thanks but no thanks call, cos she left for the day without calling back. I am almost leaning towards the evil Insurance job. they would send me to Albany, NY for traingin - 2 weeks! And I've never been there before. I think I want a time away rom children. My accupuncturist said she knew I was burned out, and I realize I am, but just didn't know it.

I sent for info on the legal secretary and administrative assistant certification program from a community college. Maybe it's time for a change.

This quiz made me very happy:

Which Smallville character are you?

2002-08-30T20:04:00.000-07:00

Oh fer torment. I know that which does not kill us makes us stronger, but for fuck's sake !?! Why can't I get a bleeding job? I so do not want to get stuck at Progressive Insurance, but that's what it's looking like.

On a better note:
I WAS A HAPPY CHILD
lucky you. you were what every child should be.
carefree. optimistic. and happy.
what kind of child were you?
(brought you by april)

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Which of the Mayfair Witches are YOU Most Like?

Find out now! Only from href="http://quizjunkie.tripod.com">the Quiz Junkie

Well, this one made me snort in laughter.

target="new">
border=0>

Who’s YOUR Rocky Horror Alter-Ego?

Find out now! Only from href="http://quizjunkie.tripod.com">the Quiz Junkie

The seduction is complete. I am a Smallville watcher and a Lex fan. Darn his sinister attraction. And I am dipping my toes into the roiling pool that is slash - finally. I had resisted it till now, but dude, the Clex factor is sooo obvious. Hee hee. I have way too much to watch this fall.

2002-08-26T15:31:00.000-07:00

I am Miss Melancholy! Not just the squirrel from yesterday is setting me off. Change makes me feel so unsettled and nervous. I am so wishing I could have just kept my old job. I have a good chance at two jobs - one in teaching and one in corporate land. My tummy hurts thinking about the roads less traveled. I just want everything to be fine. I would really like to just win the Lottery and stay home with my Paulie forever. I'd dig this being out of work thing, if I had lots of money. Sheesh, I will stop my moaning.

have you done these things? as done by Jenna.

Been to a Backstreet Boys concert: Oh no.
Been on a plane: Yes.
Been on a cruise: No.
Went swimming in the ocean: Only the Atlantic and the Gulf o' Mexico. I plan to wade in the freezing waters of the Pacific in October, though.
Been to Europe: Sadly no.
Been to Mexico: No.
Been to Canada: No, but hopefully next year !!!!!
Been to China: No.
Been to Alaska: No.
Been to Australia: No
Been to Japan: No.
Been to Korea: Mouth in the shape of the letter O - They Might Be Giants ref.
Been in a school play: Heh heh, let's see. Curious Savage as Mrs. Savage, Lion in Winter as Eleanor of Aquitaine, I was in Noises Off, a Tom Stoppard play, I was Masha in Three Sisters, and then in college I was Puck in a children's version of Midsummer Night's Dream, Charlotte in Charlotte's Web, and various others.
Gone to Church: When I was younger.
Watched "Dawson's Creek": No. Saw enough of its ads during Buffy.
Seen a grizzly bear (not in the zoo): No, but I would like to see a black bear. From a distance.
Been to Lake Powell: No. I'm not sure where it is, even
Gone skiing: Three times in my life. And I live in Colorado, for Pete's sake. I just don't like it much.
Gone snowboarding: No.
Been on a motorcycle or motorbike: Yes.
Fell asleep during a scary movie: No.
Never slept during a night: I have occaisional problems with insomnia. I will wake up after sleeping two or three hours and not be able to go back to sleep..
Played field hockey: No.
Played soccer: Never.
Played baseball: I am so not the sporty girl!
Been to a Major League Baseball game: Yes, usually twice a year.
Sat in a suite at a basketball game: Um no.
Seen the Harlem Globetrotters: Why yes, I have.
kissed a guy\girl: Well, one should hope since I'm married.
Gone to Applebee's: Yes.
Eaten fish: Yes, but not often. It's a treat kind of thing.
Eaten caviar: Blech - no way.
Seen someone die (not in a movie): No.
Met a celebrity: No but Paul made a latte for Jamie Lee Curtis and was on the same plane as John Waters.
Met the president: No.
Sang in public: When I was little in choir.
Driven a car: Yes.
Didn't wash your hair for a week: Probably.
Been to all 50 states: No.
Broken something valuable: Oh yes.
Disobeyed your parents: Hee hee. I was a teenager once, and they do tend to do things like that!
Missed a day of Church: Oh, that has slid by the way side. I do like going to Midnight Mass though on Christmas Eve.
Skipped school: Only on senior skip day. I felt very naughty.
Your teachers have been on strike: No.
Broken through ice: No.
Bought ice cream from an ice cream truck: Who hasn't?
Used your parents credit card (with permission): No.
Gotten a cavity: Never! I have shiny happy teeth.
Broke your arm: No. Hopefully that trend will conitnue.
Been given stitches: Yes.
Shopped at Abecrombie and Fitch: No.
Shopped at American Eagle: No.
Shopped at Old Navy: I've browsed.
Not filled out a chain letter: I rarely do.
Been to the top of the Statue of Liberty: No.
Dunked a basketball: Heh - at 5'0" I can barely make a basket.
Wrote a story and had it published: No, but that would be cool one day.
Filled a piggy bank: Yes..
Walked down 5th Avenue: No.
Read "Gone With the Wind": Several times.
Danced in a ballet recital: Yes, and I loved it.
Built a snowman: Yup.
Went to the Olympics: No.
Went to Africa: No.
Drove over the Golden Gate Bridge: No.
Milked a cow: No.
Husked corn: Yes.
Carried a real koala bear: No, can you do that if you don't work for a zoo?
Saw the Northern Lights: No, bt I would really like to.
Been to a runway fashion show: No.
Went to the Smithsonian: Yes, when I was five. And I still remember the kids room where you could touch pelts of animals.

2002-08-24T19:45:00.000-07:00

I saw something today that really made me feel sad. We were driving on my street and we approach a squirrel that's just been hit. It's little tail was still twitching. What was really upsetting was that there was another squirrel who had crossed the road safely. It turned back to go to the dying squirrel. We slowed down and it ran back to safety, but that just ripped my heart out. I wanted to cry. People say animals have no feelings or higher thought, but dude... that squirrel was rinning back to see what was wrong.

Sigh. I am too sappy for my own good. When I was little I told my mom that Lassie and I were going to save all the animals who died by bringing them back to life. (Why Lassie? I have no clue) I wish I could still hook with Lassie.

2002-08-23T17:24:00.000-07:00

Drat. On a teachers' chatboard there were many people who disparaged Head Start having worked there. Saying it was often run and staffed by less than educated folks. I am hoping that is not the case with the school where I'm interviewing.

My friend Beth who works for her dad's law practice (mostly personal injury) said I wouldn't necessarily be evil if I
worked for an insurance co. as claims rep. She says it's very refreshing to speak to the few people who are actually pleasant.

And I have an interview at a friend's law firm for a recptionist position. It would pay almost $10,000 less than what I was making - EEP! But it is downtown near many retail places where I could maybe find a second job.

WAH! When is Buffy starting! I need distraction - although Smallville is proving to be a pretty darn good distraction.

To be honest, I thought I'd score way higher on this one.

I am 34% Internet Addict

I could go either way. Deep into the madness of nights filled with coding CGI-Scripts and online role playing games, or I could become a normal user. Good luck!

Take the Internet Addict Test at fuali.com

2002-08-21T19:05:00.000-07:00

Monday Mission on Wednesday Night

1. Many children have blankets, or a favorite nubby stuffed animal that they like to keep near them for security. Do you recall what you had for your "security blanket" as a child? When did you finally give it up? What brought that about?

I had Puppy. He is a puppy dog stuffed animal who is now threadbare and eyeless and stitched. I slept with him till my early teens, and a few times in college. He is still in my room.

2. Now that you are a big kid, what do you have to give you that same sense of security?

My sweetie Paul. And the phone on which to call my mom.

3. With a little over four months left in 2002, have you accomplished everything you wanted to for the year? Is there anything that you would like to accomplish before the year is over?

Finding a job is the big time major all out accomplishment I need to achieve within the next two weeks. I did get more fit this year.

4. I don't know about you, but it seems to me children have it pretty good these days. Game systems, computers in the home, microwaves, cable TV, the internet, cell phones and pagers, they certainly have a wider variety of technology than most of us did as children. What modern convenience, if any, do you think it would be good for children today to do without? What would they gain?

I think kids should not have tv's and computers in their rooms until... well, maybe not ever. There should always be a second tv for kids to watch, but I think family time suffers if smaller kids (non teens) are in their rooms all the time.

5. Many of us have one thing in which we believe we excel. What do you do better than most?
Read stories to children.

6. In the United States, and possibly other countries, teenagers in High School usually wind up falling into several social circles or "cliques." Stoners, Rich Kids, Jocks, Cheerleaders, Band, Drama, Goths, and so on (though the names are probably different today). What High School "clique" did you find yourself in? Was it by choice or did it just happen? Did you look down on other groups? (Aw it's ok, it was/is High School, we all did dumb stuff)

I was in the New Wave/Theater Kids crowd. Not quite Goth -we had way too colorful hair for that. I looked down on the Jocks and certain segments of the Popular crowd, mostly because they harrassed my friends.

7. (it begins) I have great news! I won the contest and we now have plane tickets to anywhere in the world. The bad news is we have to pick a place now and leave in the morning. I can't decide where to go, so you get to pick. Where should we go, and what is the first thing we should do when we get there?

Britain. London firts, and I'd go to the Victoria and Albert Museum first. Then head up country to the Yorkshire Dales, up to Scotland, and then come back through to hit historical sites like Bath.

BONUS: Must I beg you?
If the phone doesn't start ringing with job offers soon, I'm going to go insane.

2002-08-18T19:45:00.000-07:00

My old school starts tomorrow, and while I' more settled into my situation as a former teacher, it still makes me sad. So to combat the blues, I'll do quizzes! And eat chocolate chip cookies - I got a big ass bag of Ghiraldelli chips at Costco today. No, I won't eat them all at one sitting ;)

What is my spectrum?

I am green: My main color is green. I like to have fun and comfort. Happiness is the marker of a great life.

What is my spectrum?

I am 50% CANADIAN!!!

(Take the Canadian-ness test)

what movie symbolism are you? find out!

2002-08-16T13:18:00.000-07:00

See which Greek Goddess you are.

2002-08-14T20:07:00.000-07:00

I have been in a general malaise today. I think it's hormones - mid cycle and all, but I've just been kinda mopey. Went to my accupuncture appt. - I go every month - and found out my accupuncturist is moving to Wyoming next month. Boo hoo - I will really miss her. She did massage on my achy shoulder and back as well as "needling" me, so I will have to look for someone else. IF I can afford it, that is.

Here's the Tuesday This or That:

1. Dr. Seuss characters: the Cat in the Hat or the Grinch?
The Grinch. Not the movie Grinch, but the book/tv show Grinch.

2. "Anne of Green Gables" or "Little Women"?
Confession: I have read neither. I have never seen a movie adaption of either. I just never got around to it.

3. Nancy Drew or the Hardy Boys? Nancy Drew
4. Winnie the Pooh characters: Tigger or Eeyore?
Eeyore, because my husband is him to a tee.

5. Which author: Judy Blume ("Are You There, God, It's Me, Margaret?") or Beverly Cleary? (the Ramona Quimby books)
Judy Blume - I was so happy to have the book Deenie about the girl with scoliosis and a back brace when I got mine.

6. Roald Dahl books: "Charlie & the Chocolate Factory" (Willy Wonka) or "James & the Giant Peach"?
James and the Giant Peach. One of the first chapter books I ever read.

7. "Harry Potter" or "The Wizard of Oz"?
Harry Potter

8. Curious George or Madeline?
Madeline: To the lion in the zoo, Madeline said "Poo poo" (my favorite line a s a child)

9. "A Wrinkle in Time" or "Little House on the Prairie"?
A Wrinkle in Time. I loved that book and it opened up new worlds of thought to me. I loved Little House as well, but not in the same way.

10. Dr. Seuss again: "Horton Hears a Who" or "The Lorax"?
That is a hard one, but I think Horton slightly edges out the Lorax for me.

2002-08-10T20:19:00.000-07:00

i have a cat perched on my shoulder so typing is hard. no capitals for tonight.

1. Do you have a car? If so, what kind of car is it?
I have a blue saturn sl2 - 1992.

2. Do you drive very often?
Some days I sit out on the driving, but i usually drive every day.

3. What's your dream car?
i'd love a brand new saturn. i've never owned a new car.

4. Have you ever received a ticket?
nope! i never have. i usually don't spped more than 5 miles or so over the limit

5. Have you ever been in an accident?
yes - 3. one in which my mom's car was plowed into (cat just left - typing will improve) one where we were rear ended, and one, on my first time driving on ice, when I spun out and the car behind me smashed into me, totalling my car. Miraculously, I wasn't harmed in any of them.

Friday Group Therapy:

1. Do you know the circumstances surrounding your conception or birth?
Conception: a complete accident due to birth control failure a month into the marriage. Birth: caesarean - if I hadn't been removed my nexk would have been snapped in the birth canal.

2. Overall, were your school years good or bad (Pre College)?
They were happy. I always loved school. Even high school.

3. If you went to college, what was college like for you? If you have not started college, what do you think it will be like? If you never went to college, why not?
College had a lot of fun moments, but it also the beginning of Real World Stress and Worry. But I met my husband there, so it wasn't too bad.

4. What kind of career are you in/do you plan on going into? Why did you choose it and are you happy with your choice?
Well until a week ago, I would've said teaching was my real career forever and ever. Now I'm not sure. I would really dig working at the library in some capacity. My real dream job is to teach prekindergarten with no stress on jamming knowledge into kiddo's heads. Unfortunately, pre-k teachers in Colorado are not reimbursed well.

5. How many children do you plan on having, if any? What influenced this decision?
I always wanted one child, but unfortunately due to my husband's degenrative illness, we will probably not be able to have kids. Adoption is so expensive, that would seem to be out of the question as well. Which makes me very, very sad.

6. How old do you want to get? How old can you see yourself getting?
I don't tend to think about that. If my ancestry is an indicator, I'll probably get into my 80's.

2002-08-08T14:18:00.000-07:00

Oops, haven't updated in awhile. Well, I am coming to terms that I will unlikely be a teacher anymore. Or at least, this year. Which at first made the angry bitterness, but is now settling in better. I am realizing that teaching is the only thing I've ever done, so of course I would be wary of leaving it. I am also realizing that what I like best about teaching, if I really am honest with myself, is the time off. I enjoy children, but they are a daily drain of energy. Plus teaching is so driven by testing now, that it's more stressful. And i really hate dealing with the parents who either don't care or care too much. So I'm a bit more open now to change. Besides that, there is a position at the library called Education Program Assistant. It pays the same starting, it sounds fun, and it is still open as of today (I applied yesterday). I would really enjoy working in the library system. I'm there all the time anyway! So I'm crossing my fingers.

From Mr. Ron's Blog:
Habits

1. What one thing do you have in the morning to start your day that if you don't get it you're grumpy?
A shower.

2. What is your favorite late night snack?
I try not to do late night snacks - they make my tummy grumble. My favorite after dinner snack is a palmful of semi-sweet morsels.

3. What habit do you wish you could do away with?
Leaving misceallaneous stuff strewn about where I lay it down and forget about it.

4. Is there a specific brand name of a product you will only purchase?
Um...not really. I don't like store brand tortilla and potato chips though - they alaways taste icky and greasy to me.

5. What place, outside of home and work, do you most frequent and why?
The library. Which is why I need a job there!

2002-08-04T18:39:00.000-07:00

I have a Plan B - finally. And it's not too heinous. My friend Brien works at Progressive Insurance, and he got me job descriptions for claims rep jobs. I don't think I'd want to do the medical claims - lingering horror there - but the car damage ones would be interesting. You get 8 weeks paid training and learn how to estimate the car damage plus other stuff. I know nothing about cars, so it would be cool learning about that. Plus, it starts at what I was making last year, and you can negotiate for more. So there is a bit of light at the end of the tunnel.

You are an angel.

What legend are you?. Take the Legendary Being Quiz by Paradox

2002-08-02T20:36:00.000-07:00

Thursday Who:

Ahab's Thursday Who:

1) Who is the philosopher/voice of your generation?
Do we have one? I'm not sure if there is one yet.

2) Who do you respect in politics?
Jimmy Carter - the terrible president who was the only good man

3) Who amongst your circle of friends is most likely to travel into outer space when it becomes commonplace?
Susan!
4) Other than your immediate family, who would you call first if you found out you were expecting? Beth

5) Who would you like to see on a new dollar bill?
NOT Reagan

Followed by the Friday Five!
The Friday Five, courtesy of Jenna

1. What is your lineage? Where are your ancestors from?
From what I've researched, on my mom's side: Irish, English, German, French, with a smatter of Creek or Cherokee somewhere. On my dad's: Scottish, Irish, English

2. Of those countries, which would you most like to visit?
Scotland. I really, really want to go to Scotland one day.

3. Which would you least like to visit? Why?
Germany. It just doesn't appeal to me as a country. I think there's a whole WWII/Holocaust thing getting in my way.
4. Do you do anything during the year to celebrate or recognize your heritage?
Well, I got married on St. Patrick's Day, so that's a little reminder of my heritage.

5. Who were the first ancestors to move to your present country (parents, grandparents, etc)?
Ummm...I think my maternal Huegenot ancestors showed up in the New World in the early to mid 1700's.

2002-08-02T20:29:00.000-07:00

Catching up!

Sigh... I talked with my mom (hi mom!) about the Smarmy School interview today. My gut is telling me in the strongest way possible that this is not my path. She agreed. If they offer it to me, I will say no. I'd rather work in an office job then teach somewhere that I get such a bad feeling. I am just getting good at teaching the way I do - I don't want to change that for creepy parents breathing down my neck every minute to keep their children's heads crammed full of learning and no joy. I feel better already. Maybe they just won't call me Monday.

And now for questionnaires and etc.

Your home. Chock full.
Your car. Reliable transportation.
Your job. Scary precipice.
Your S.O. Supportive love.
Your Family. Miss them.
Your Friends. Life savers.
The Internet. My escape.
Television. animals, documentaries.
Books. My joy.
Today. Stressful stomachache.

2002-07-31T21:42:00.000-07:00

You are 41% geek

You are a geek liason, which means you go both ways. You can hang out with normal people or you can hang out with geeks which means you often have geeks as friends and/or have a job where you have to mediate between geeks and normal people. This is an important role and one of which you should be proud. In fact, you can make a good deal of money as a translator.

Normal: Tell our geek we need him to work this weekend.

You [to Geek]: We need more than that, Scotty. You'll have to stay until you can squeeze more outta them engines!

Geek [to You]: I'm givin' her all she's got, Captain, but we need more dilithium crystals!

You [to Normal]: He wants to know if he gets overtime.

Take the Polygeek Quiz at Thudfactor.com

2002-07-31T21:35:00.000-07:00

Wednesday What via Joni

1. WHAT IN THE WORLD of candy-bars .... is your all-time favorite?
Mmm...candy bars.... I really like Symphony bars - not theplain ones, but the ones w/nuts and toffee. I also break down and devour Crunch bars every once in awhile.

2. WHAT IN THE WORLD of collecting do you collect?
Old things like old photographs, vintage clothes, and pretty things from days of yore.

3. WHAT IN THE WORLD of life's little pleasures (key word: little) do you enjoy most?
Sleeping in on a relaxed, peaceful morning. There's nothing better than lying in bed, listening to the birds sing and knowing you don't have to go anywhere or do anything till you're ready.

2002-07-30T22:27:00.000-07:00

OH! But this test made me cheery. I always loved Fozzie so much!

	You are Fozzie! Wokka Wokka! You love to make lame jokes. Your sense of humor might be a bit off, but you're a great friend and can always be counted on..
*Take the What Muppet Are You?* Quiz!**

2002-07-30T22:16:00.000-07:00

Ack! This is too correct this week.

Which Peanuts Character Are You Quiz

2002-07-30T22:11:00.000-07:00

The air conditioner AND the cable are out. Today is not a good day. My friend Susan (mom of baby Aidan) went in to the hospital for an out patient procedure - I was going to pick her up. Instead, she ends up being admitted because the problem was more difficult than the thought. So I babysat all afternoon, which was fine, but also hot since their home isn't air conditioned at all.

I also had some serious taunting today - a principal called yesterday from a rather far away district. He left a message which I returned within an hour (to his voice mail). I called again this morning and finally he called me on my cell while I was with the baby. "Oh well, we intervirewed yesterday and I already picked a candidate, but I had wanted to chat with you yesterday." I was like "Whatever? Why the hell do you call me then?" Only I didn't say it out loud. I also made my first application to a non-teaching entity. I applied at Jeppesen, an aeronautics company, for HR assistant - the description was for a lot of misceallaneous plus organizing the Speciall Things like Chirstmas card lists, blood drives, etc. It has kill benefits, and a salary range comprable to what I make, so who knows?

So now - fun frothy tests and questionnaires!

From Jenna's Blog via Ahab's

1. How well did you do in History class in school?
Really well. All A's, all the time. That stuff just sticks in my head well.

2. Who is your favorite historical "good" person?
Hmmm... I've always been really fond of Eleanor of Aquitaine, even though she got slagged by the "media". I'm not sure if she was all "good" but she was mighty spunky.

3. Who is your favorite historical "bad" person?
Catherine de Medici - so evil, but she always had style. Besides, back then powerful women didn't have too many choices. It was the whole Whore/Madonna thing going on.

4. Is there a historical event or era that has caught your imagination?
I love the costume history of many time periods. I think the 20's would've been a really fun time to be a young adult. I would love to go back to the late 1700's just for the big hair and pannieres alone (the big ass side bustles on the Marie Antoinette type dresses)

5. If you could choose any historical time and place to live, where and when would you choose?
Probably the 20's cos it was the beginning of "modern times".

6. If you could go back in time with your present knowledge intact, where would you go and what would you do?
Nowhere - I wouldn't want to mess with the time stream.

7. Which version of the beginning of time do you subscribe to? (Big Bang, Biblical Creation, etc...)
We're a science experiment. Some kid up there mixed together a ready made kit a la Sea Monkeys.
Actually, I believe in evolutionary processes, but I'm not so sure on any theory as to how everything came into existance. I don't think there is really a definitive explanation we can wrap our minds around.

2002-07-27T14:19:00.000-07:00

I am so proud to be a hobbit ;)

2002-07-27T14:18:00.000-07:00

Which Middle Earth race are you? go to:the quiz!

2002-07-26T13:33:00.000-07:00

Hee hee - plus it's fun to say.

What Egyptian Deity are you? go to:the quiz!

--------------------------------------------------------
Which Song?...lifted fromApsen who lifted from Joni lifted from Bev

reminds you of an ex-lover:
Well, I don't have any. Just the one I still have. How about high school fantasy ex-lover? "Fascinated" cheesy 80's dance song by Company B.

reminds you of an ex-friend:
Only an ex-friend due to growing apart - no evil fight. "Bela Lugosi's Dead"

makes you cry:
Do songs make me cry? I'm trying to think, since everthying else does. I think "Cat's in the Cradle" makes me wistful.

makes you laugh:
The Weird Al version of "American Pie". Might be Vader someday later but now he's a small fry.

makes you wanna dance:
Most NIN songs. Or Beastie Boys.

makes you wanna sing:
Buffy Musical Soundtrack. Which I played and sang to a lot on my loooong drive there and back.

reminds you of the one you want: "In My Life" Beatles

reminds you of the one you love: "Twilight Garden" Cure

do you wish you wrote:
Something wildly popular and sung by someone else so I could remain anonymous but rake in the cash.

do you never want to hear again:
Scary bassridden rap

do you want to get married to:
We actually used this as our entrance song - "Twilight Garden" by the Cure. A very pretty and sweet song.

sums up your teenage years:
Rock Lobster - B52's

do you like to wake up to:
Just bird songs

do you like out of your parents' record collection:
Some of the Doors.

do you love that you wouldn't know about if it wasn't for a friend:
Many many kinds of music. Most importantly I guess, my friends Kristin and Liz introduced me to the Cure way back in high school.

do you love the video more than the tune:
There's a Robert Plant video which was very striking back in the mid80's. I think it was called "Little by Little"

do you love which is from your favourite movie:
I don't know. I'm a bit of a Cure fan, if you haven't noticed, and I was thrilled during The Crow when their soing came on the soundtrack all cool and dramatic like.

makes you think of the moon: "Man in the Moon" Voice of the Beehive

makes you think of the night: "All Night Long" Peter Murphy

makes you think of sex:
"World in My Eyes" Depeche Mode.

makes you think of being alone:
Hmm. Not sure.

---------------------------------------------------------------
This explains a lot. Long live the cheese!
__________

cellspacing="2" cellpadding="0" bgcolor="#000000"
height="200" bordercolor="#FFCC00">

width="250" height="150">

color="#FFCC00">What
Goth Are you?

2002-07-26T13:09:00.000-07:00

Ron's Thursday Who, on Friday:

1) Who is the first person outside of your immediate family to whom you would tell a huge life secret?
Erg. I'm not sure. It depends on the secret, I guess. Paul knows most of mine anyway.

2) Who do you trust in the media to tell you the truth about something?
I've always liked Peter Jennings. And Walter Cronkite should be cloned and live forever.

3) Who among celebrities is probably the most like you?
Yoinks. Definitely NOT Winona Ryder.

4) Who, of all people in 20th century would you most like to meet (please include a question for them)?
My great grandmother who died in 1912. "What happened to your husband?"

5) Who is funnier? a) Jay; b) Dave; c) Conan; d) Kilborn
Dave, even though I can't stay up that late anymore.

2002-07-26T12:47:00.000-07:00

And I'm back. Booo hoooo, I miss my mommy!!!! I had such a good visit. I mean, really good, excepts for the one night I had to stay with my sis-n-law and husband and drive with them for about 5 hours total. Brrrr. Got my dose of them for the year. I stayed with a good college friend and saw three other good college friends I hadn't seen forever. Much fun there - one is a huge Buffy fan now. My mom-in-law was sweet and wonderful - she taught me how to crochet. I made a hat! It was too big but my grandma liked it so I gave it to her. Then I went home to Lawton to be with my sweet mommy, Aunt Moo Moo (Mary), and g-ma. We girls have soooo much fun and laugh so hard. I got my aunt set up on eBay to sell collectible books, so that was cool. And I got to drive a Jeep Spirit which was shiny and costly and drove like a dream cos the rental place screwed up my reservation. To follow: massive catching up. Cos I have to do those tests, you know?

Oh! I read White Oleander while gone. Such. A. Good. Book. It was enthralling and I highyl recommend it to anyone.

2002-07-16T20:34:00.000-07:00

Well tomorrow morning I am off to the scroching hot land of my birth - Oklahoma - for a week long visit. I am sooo happy because my first destination (mom-in-law's house) actually has computer access now! Hooray! My sweet 80 yr old mom-in-law finally got on the Net this year. The only sad thing is that Paul isn't up to going. The heat just sucks his energy and heightens his pain responses. Plus he gets too conveniently weasel out of prolonges relative exposure. Snerk :) I don't mind going - I'll visit his mom a few days, stay the night w/ a college friend, and then head down to my mom's for the rest of the visit. I'm renting a car with cruise control and AC - it will be bliss. Well, except for the whole long drive thing, but I've got my Buffy musical cd ready to go.

2002-07-15T20:41:00.000-07:00

What obscure band are you?

2002-07-15T20:35:00.000-07:00

Ok, I'm scaring myself - I changed the template, not realizing I would wipe out the comments. Put the comments back (I hope), changed the links a bit using the template format, made a meow mix version 1.0.

Neat.

2002-07-15T11:06:00.000-07:00

What a fun weekend - saw Crocodile Hunter: Collision Course, which was a fun romp! And Paul loved it. Paul hates everything - I got a 'meh' from him for "A Beautiful Mind", a 'dear god that was awful' for "The Others", and a 'it was good, but not great' for Gosford Park. And yet he loved that Steve and Terri and crocodiles flick ;) He said it was the only one of the ones I mentioned that we saw this week that he enjoyed - he admits that CH was not a wonder of modern film, so he's not completely insane. I thought the movie was a fine, educationaly movie. I recommend it to families. But then I really like Steve for his obvious love of animals. I know he seems nutty, but I think it's endearing.

Mini-rant: In my quest for a job, I finally contacted a service called Educator's Resource which has advertised in the Sunday paper for awhile. It always has a "call now, great jobs availible" spiel. I emailed an inquiry and found out that they charge the teacher who gets a job 15% to 18% of their first year salary. I made $32,000 last year - 15% of that would be over $4,000, right? I can not believe that! It's appalling. What's even more appalling is I might have to do it if August comes and I have nothing. It's really depressing. Please someone tell me my math is wrong. Grrrrr. Sigh. Eep. I know with business types this is normal, but for teachers? Jeesh.

2002-07-12T16:47:00.000-07:00

From Joni's blog:

You know, these tests are cute and fun, but whoever writes them needs to learn to spell "a lot" correctly. Anyhoo:

What Obscure Animal are you?

I am now officially unemployed, as today was the last day of summer school. Not panicking yet.

I had so much fun at the HoE chat last night. It was good to catch up with everyone.

I saw the Power Puf Girls movie today. So cute! I really enjoyed it. I'll totally get the DVD, cos you know there will be tons of cool extras. AND saw the Chamber of Secrets trailer. That was very exciting - so much better seeing it on the big screen instead of the itsy, tiny pixalated website.

My last happy news of the day, I found out that the Buffy spoilers I read last night are reliable and correct. Joy!

2002-07-11T15:24:00.000-07:00

From Ahab's Blog:

What Was Your PastLife?

Yup, that's about right ;)

Worked out today - did the weight equipment. I'm muscle tired now, though.
Got to get ready for my trip next week. I'll be gone from Wednesday to the following Thursday. Just going home to visit family, but I always look forward to going. Even though I'll be going alone again this summer. Poor Pauie just isn't up to it.

2002-07-10T14:47:00.000-07:00

1. What in the world of insects, gives you the worst "willies"?

Centipedes. The big fasty crawly kind with alllll those legs. Shiver. There was a kind in the woods of OK where I was a girl scout camp counselor that had orange and black segments and huge pincers. And they were over a foot long. AND they moved like lightning. Again with the shiver.

2. What in the world of the mundane, (everyday stuff) would you change, if you could?

Traffic. I would have light rails everywhere.

3. What in the world of epicurean morsels, are you least likely to sample?

Odd organs of odd beasts.

2002-07-09T20:51:00.000-07:00

Ack?!? From the "Your Inner Buffy Bad Girl" quiz. I'm not sure how correctly this matches me... altho I d use the feminine wiles when need be.

Who's Your Inner Buffy Bad-Girl? Find out @ She's Crafty

2002-07-07T18:01:00.000-07:00

I saw Men in Black 2 today with Susan - it was very cute. Tommy Lee Jones is just magnificent. It wasn't as good as the first, but I would definitely recommend going for fun. Lots of pie jokes. I like pie ;)
What was really cool were the previews. There was one for the next Star Trek which looks dark and very exciting - more like the Borg one than the last goofyish one. Also saw the Two Towers preview - damn Peter Jackson!!!! Just when I think - phew, I'm not going to see that evil movie - along comes a preview that makes me want to see it now. Even with the Arwen bs that has been stuck into the movie - come on, Arwen at Helm's Deep? Puhleez. But Orlando and Viggo are so pretty, and Ian McKellan is so Gandalf. Sigh. And then Chamber of Secrets comes out in Nov. so it's going to be a rich holiday season of scifi/fantasy movies.

I'm reading Buffy Season Noir by Anna S. Oh man, is it good. I need to write a Buffy fic that's been rattling around in my head. I am going to try to devote 30 min. a day this week for writing to see if I can get some ideas down on paper (ok, I mean on disk, but you know what I mean).

Tomorrow is the first day of the last week of summer school. Woo hoo! Although after that I am totally and offivially unemployed. Less woo hoos. But I still have my trip home to look forward to.

2002-07-05T11:03:00.000-07:00

Friday Five from Joni's Blog

1. Where are you right now? Lounging at home, blissfully on vacation.

2. What have you lost recently? My desire to leave the house. Ha, ha - no, it's just nice and cool in here. I did lose something recently but I can't remember what it was now.

3. What was the first CD you ever purchased? Does that embarrass you now?
First CD - I think it was a Mozart CD to try out on our brand spanking new CD player back in '88 or '89. I'd never be embarrassed by Mozart.

4. What is your favorite kind of writing pen? The kind with the fattish, padded part where your fingers fit.

5. What is your favorite ice cream flavor? Oh man, I love ice cream. Jamocha Almond Fudge is excellent. Anything with coffee in it - this goes waaaay back to my childhood. But then again, butter pecan rocks my world. I have been very impressed by Ben and Jerry's One Small Whirled.

2002-07-03T17:10:00.000-07:00

Computer issues officially over... I hope. Thanks Susan for all your help!!!!

So I'm in love. He's quite a bit younger than me, and he's not much of a talker, but he's divine. His name is Aidan, and he is the newborn son of my teacher friend Susan. I visited them in the hospital twice, and yesterday I got some major holding time in. Oh fer sweet, all bundled and swaddled up, looking around wif his cute wittle nose all crinkly with the cutest sneezes I've ever seen. Sigh.... Baby lust is not pretty in a woman my age.

Today we stocked up our fish tank. Three frogies, one crabbie (female w/out big pincers), a gold algae eater, and for our other little tank, a red bellied frog. Actually, he has green spots on top as well, so very colorful.

Took step aerobics class yesterday. Dear God, I thought I might die. And I know I looked a fool trying to keep up with the extremely complex choreography. But I made it through the class. I was going to take the fitness ball class today, but my back, shoulder, and neck are giving me fits, so I decided to rest with a heating pad and advil.

Happy 4th of July all! I will be at Mike and Laura's tomorrow watching 4th season Buffy DVD's. Happy happy joy joy!

2002-06-28T15:17:00.000-07:00

The Friday Five via Loa and Aspen's blog

1. ...sent a handwritten letter?
I sent thank you notes for my Christmas and birthday presents in the last year, but my neck and wrist hurt too much to do much long hand writing. I'm getting ready to send thank you notes to my students who gave me presents at the end of the year.

2. ...baked something from scratch or made something by hand?
I baked cookies not too long ago. I haven't had much creative juice for creating lately.

3. ...camped in a tent?
Sometime in junior high. I used to camp as a kid all the time. I am less and less outdoorsy as I grow older.

4. ...volunteered your time to church, school, or community?
You wouldn't believe how many hours a teacher works that she doesn't get paid for ;) Plus I've done a bit for the Scully Marathon.

5. ...helped a stranger?
I do little things as much as I can. I just helped a lady with a big stack of books to return at the library this very afternoon.

2002-06-28T15:05:00.000-07:00

Ah, only one more week of summer school (after a week of break).... And then bleak nothingness. Woo hoo! I'm actually planning a trip home to visit my mom and a good friend, so July will go by fast. And then the scary part - August and figuring out what they heck I'm going to do.

Mutant 1013 is too quiet - spoiler alert. So Spike's anger at the end of the finale was more towards himself. I like that. He wanted the soul. That makes the "give the Slayer what she deserves" line mean so much more. EEEEEEEE. As usual, I can't wait to read the first spoilers.

I wish my car weren't ten years old and had air conditioning. When and if Paul gets his Social Seciruity, I am so going to look into getting a newer car. Although I should be able to get the air conditioning fixed - I just need my first summer school paycheck.

Got good news from the unemployment registry place. First of all I was already registered and didn't actually have to go to the office like I did yesterday. Second of all, I don't have to sweat the three contacts a week, since I was told they rarely look at that. I've been sending out email letters of interest with my resume, but not too many principals are around to read them right now.

Probably more later.....

2002-06-27T20:03:00.001-07:00

Snark - from the Austin Powers site:

Michelle "Dauntless" Boyer

You have eluded capture, killed the assassin, reclaimed the family jewels and are now confronted with 100 armed men and no visible means of escape. Are you kidding? You live for these scenarios and always manage to escape.

Vital Gear
Includes a loyal sidekick to help you escape, crazy glue, and making sure the bad guys attack one at a time.

Ok, who wants to be my loyal sidekick? Dude, seriously, dauntless is all about me.

2002-06-27T20:03:00.000-07:00

2002-06-27T19:38:00.000-07:00

Your magical style is Psychic.

What type of Magic do you work?. Take the Magical Style Quiz by Paradox

Hee hee - how cool!

2002-06-27T19:29:00.000-07:00

Took a Pilates class yesterday. Stretchy stretchy.
But then today I got a pint of Ben and Jerry's One Sweet Whirled ice cream. Oh my head, but that is some DELICIOUS ice cream. Yummy.

Tomorrow is the last day of the second week of summer school. My Cool Castles and Noble Knights class presentation is going to be pretty darn cute. The knights have helmets and the ladies head dresses. They are excited.

I want to continue my fan fic story, but all I seem to do is not type it. I did a final edit, but have I posted it up on fan fic.net? Heck no. I need some motivation!

Anyhoo...

2002-06-25T21:04:00.000-07:00

I joined the YMCA yesterday. And I actually went to work out today. Go me!
I'm actually feeling kinda glum, chum. Just the whole job thing bothering me. I was taking a class out from summer school and I saw one of the teachers from my district (who was also laid off) at an interview for a Kindergarten position. It was a year long one, and I don't want that, but they could've at least called me. This will be a long summer.
Or maybe I'll open the SciFi Emporium I dreamed about. Hohum.

Ennui girl signing out.

2002-06-23T15:10:00.000-07:00

I am feeling so blah today. I haven't done much of anything but be online or play my Age of Empires game. I have to get ready for my summer school class tomorrow - it's called Cool Castles and Noble Knights (no I did not think of the title). It's the first time I've taught it for a week long session. I really need to get myself going, but the ennui persists. Maybe I'll go watch Buffy instead.

I helped Mike and Laura move into their gorgeous home yesterday. Actually I did less moving than I did claeaning cupboards and putting away kitchen stuff ;) Score. I saw many bunnies scampering around the house (which is huge, full of light, and very homey already. Plus it has a kick ass basement game room).

I have to do something about exercising. Cos I'm not. At all. Sigh...

2002-06-23T15:04:00.000-07:00

Um - I think I have comments now.

2002-06-20T18:48:00.000-07:00

Aha - something of value. Lifted from Ahab's blog, of course.

The last book you've read: Um, it was by Charles DeLint - one of the first Newford short story collections. I can't remember the title, and I already took it back to the library. But it was really, really good.

The last book you've bought: A Studs Terkel oral history (the one on aging)

The last movie you've seen in a theater: Divine Secrets of the Ya Ya Sisterhood

The last movie you've seen on video: Memento - I liked it

The last song you sang along to: Elvis Costello, "Fifteen Candles" - I love you twisted, and I love you straight

The last restaurant you ate at: Macaroni Grill

The last board game you played: Trivial Pursuit - the original edition

The last video game you played: Age of Empires II. Which I (ahem) play every day. It's a monkey on my back. But it's so cool when the villagers buld the city.

The last time you danced: Man... a long time ago. I do not do my DDR home version as much as I should.

The last person you kissed: My sweetie pie Paul

2002-06-20T18:32:00.001-07:00

Is this thing on?

2002-06-20T18:32:00.000-07:00

Ummm...oookay. Here I go. Wading into the churning pool of blogs.