I just had the best gift given to me. My mom called me and sounded so incredibly happy. That's it. That's the gift. I am grinning from ear to ear and just wanted to share with the world that my mother is very very happy. She is healthy, she is happy and she is my mom. Nothing makes me happier than to have a healthy and happy family.
On another note - it snowed today. Not that great of a gift, but it was pretty as it was falling and it is even prettier now that it didn't stick and the weather is supposed to get warmer for the weekend. That is a good gift.
Another gift? Okay - here is a gift. I had a friend call and ask if I would do the 40 days of purpose with her. The gifts just keep coming. :)
God is so good to me.
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
Sunday, December 25, 2011
Rocking Horses
So - I am going to add pictures of rocking horses that live in my house. I am thinking about having some kind of rocking horse derby in May...when our real Derby commences. I will have to think about it and get back to you.
Christmas 2011
Well, the wrapping paper has been picked up, the boxes stored for future use, the big tree has been removed from inside and stored in it's proper place along with all the Christmas rocking horses. The house is clean and quiet, and the Valentine's Day theme tree is in the dining room with matching tables, and smaller rocking horses.
The sun is streaming in throught the patio doors and the dog is "laying out" on the warmed carpet. Comanche is sleeping (again) and Jeff is piddling around with tools and unfamiliar murmers as he walks through.
God is great, life is good, and we are happy! Jesus' birthday is certainly time for celebration, but I need to reflect on why I want the decorations put away as fast as possible. I would like to say it is because I get bored...I mean, they have been up since Thanksgiving. But I also know that I treasure my family and don't see the need to keep the decorations up in order to celebrate time with them. Actually, if I were completely honest...I would have to say that all the decorations and "work" associated with the material things take time away from what I consider God's biggest gift to me and THAT is the blessing I need to focus on. So - I take down all reminders of the commercialism and try to keep it "real".
Then there is the part of me that is OCD and I can't stand to have things out of place. If you don't take down your Christmas stuff on Christmas day, then it will be there tomorrow...and tomorrow is not Christmas.
I know,,,,,,,,,this only makes sense in my own personal mind music. But whatever, because it is my house, my family, and my Christmas stuff so I get to do it my way; regardless of what others think. I at least know enough to to realize I only make sense to me. :) In the meantime - keep it REAL and know that Jesus is forever present and not just on certain days of the year.
The sun is streaming in throught the patio doors and the dog is "laying out" on the warmed carpet. Comanche is sleeping (again) and Jeff is piddling around with tools and unfamiliar murmers as he walks through.
God is great, life is good, and we are happy! Jesus' birthday is certainly time for celebration, but I need to reflect on why I want the decorations put away as fast as possible. I would like to say it is because I get bored...I mean, they have been up since Thanksgiving. But I also know that I treasure my family and don't see the need to keep the decorations up in order to celebrate time with them. Actually, if I were completely honest...I would have to say that all the decorations and "work" associated with the material things take time away from what I consider God's biggest gift to me and THAT is the blessing I need to focus on. So - I take down all reminders of the commercialism and try to keep it "real".
Then there is the part of me that is OCD and I can't stand to have things out of place. If you don't take down your Christmas stuff on Christmas day, then it will be there tomorrow...and tomorrow is not Christmas.
I know,,,,,,,,,this only makes sense in my own personal mind music. But whatever, because it is my house, my family, and my Christmas stuff so I get to do it my way; regardless of what others think. I at least know enough to to realize I only make sense to me. :) In the meantime - keep it REAL and know that Jesus is forever present and not just on certain days of the year.
Monday, October 10, 2011
Thursday, June 16, 2011
All things considered...
I have been working frantically to get everything in order before I have surgery next week. I have cleaned our house (from top to bottom), all of the laundry is done and closets arranged to perfection. My classroom is not completely finished, but I keep thinking that if I don't finish it, then that will give me more incentive to heal in 6 weeks rather than 12. All of the paperwork has been completed, everyone has their money BEFORE they cut on me. Everyone that needs to know, now knows. Emma has had her yearly check up and shots. The file cabinets have even been cleaned and papers that needed to be shredded are now in a million strips. The bathrooms have tons of toilet paper, the groceries are put away with precision.
I have even managed to compile a professional portfolio and updated resume in case a position comes up at our school that strikes my fancy. :) I have taken a strengths finder test (online) and am fairly surprised at its accuracy. Ironically, one of my strengths is to strategically plan well. HA HA HA HA Imagine...me....a....planner!
Anyway - I know I am missing something that will need immediate attention, but I am so busy I can't think about what that might be. I have double checked all of my to do list items and have added about twenty that weren't previously occupying a spot...just to make sure they were done before hand. I even paid the yearly taxes on our vehicles and re-registered everything.
I know you may be thinking that even if I were to die on the operating table that I have overly prepared. The thing is...I am not afraid of that. I am afraid of Jeff or Comanche being less than two feet from a hamper and choosing to put their dirty clothes on the floor! Weird, I know.
So - all things considered - it will be what it is and I will live through it...if only to get my ass up and pick the clothes up off the floor.
I have even managed to compile a professional portfolio and updated resume in case a position comes up at our school that strikes my fancy. :) I have taken a strengths finder test (online) and am fairly surprised at its accuracy. Ironically, one of my strengths is to strategically plan well. HA HA HA HA Imagine...me....a....planner!
Anyway - I know I am missing something that will need immediate attention, but I am so busy I can't think about what that might be. I have double checked all of my to do list items and have added about twenty that weren't previously occupying a spot...just to make sure they were done before hand. I even paid the yearly taxes on our vehicles and re-registered everything.
I know you may be thinking that even if I were to die on the operating table that I have overly prepared. The thing is...I am not afraid of that. I am afraid of Jeff or Comanche being less than two feet from a hamper and choosing to put their dirty clothes on the floor! Weird, I know.
So - all things considered - it will be what it is and I will live through it...if only to get my ass up and pick the clothes up off the floor.
Thursday, June 9, 2011
Yikes
If you have been a faithful follower, you may want to re-visit reading the post from July 11, 2010 before reading this one any further...then come back to this one.
A year later, I finally made it to the doctor. I chose an orthopaedic doctor because my ankle just wasn't healing. While in his office, he decided we should get x-rays. The x-rays showed that my fibia and tibia have shifted apart at the ankle bone. His explanation was that my tendons were not holding the bone in place and the ankle bone, itself, shifted which allowed for the shift in the bigger bones. He sent me the next week to get an MRI, so we could take a better look. I went for the MRI two days ago. I had a follow up appointment with the doctor today. This is the outcome...
I am scheduled for surgery on the 21st to repair at least one tendon with "extensive" damage. We talked about alternate options and the only other real option was to leave it alone (and he strongly discouraged this one) to see if it would heal on its own. He said the amount of damage and the length of time the damage has been there have cost me pretty dearly. UGH. So, I agreed to schedule the surgery. No worries. Then we talked about recovery time and I completely PANICKED! 12 weeks of panic stricken thoughts went through my brain...team leader, SBDM, first weeks of crucial bonding with my students, my student teacher, Renae's wedding, Professional Developments, and OMG - who the heck is going to keep my house clean (up to MY standards?) all went through my head when he said "12 weeks". Then I calmed myself down and thought I would probably be able to manage healing in half that time. Just as he said,"Are you one of those teachers that thinks you can do it in half time?" I nodded. He shook his head. 12 weeks of full recovery and then rehab three times a week to stretch out the repaired tendon.
I left his office thinking that I could NOT have made a bigger mess for myself. I went straight to school and talked with administration. Of course, they assured me that the school would not fall in, and that I would be missed, but not to worry. Then I felt bad about having the "big head" and assuming that I would be more needed than that. I then drove to a friend's house and asked how much she would be willing to take on in my absence. Of course she said she would take all of it - that is the kind of teacher she is. Then I felt bad because I had to ask.
Then I came home and shared with brothers, mom, husband, and son. They all understood, and would work through it (while I am an invalid). Makes me feel worse.
I am sick to my stomach from doing this to myself. Hind sight is 20/20, and if I could go back - - - I would have taken myself in to the doctor on July 11. As it turns out, God has a lesson for me to learn and I am positive it involves humility, patience, and (roll of the eyes) sitting still.
Please pray. Pray that I can learn my lessons with grace. I have a feeling I might be hard to get along with...I can only blame the first couple of days on left over anesthesia. I am going to need about 11 more weeks of prayers to get me past that stage.
Good news: (because there is ALWAYS good news)...I don't have bone cancer, I don't have to have replacement surgeries - hip, ankle, or knee - and the best news is that I really do have people in my life I can count on if and when I finally give in and ask for help. God is there, too, and knows I need help even when I don't agree or acknowledge it. :)
A year later, I finally made it to the doctor. I chose an orthopaedic doctor because my ankle just wasn't healing. While in his office, he decided we should get x-rays. The x-rays showed that my fibia and tibia have shifted apart at the ankle bone. His explanation was that my tendons were not holding the bone in place and the ankle bone, itself, shifted which allowed for the shift in the bigger bones. He sent me the next week to get an MRI, so we could take a better look. I went for the MRI two days ago. I had a follow up appointment with the doctor today. This is the outcome...
I am scheduled for surgery on the 21st to repair at least one tendon with "extensive" damage. We talked about alternate options and the only other real option was to leave it alone (and he strongly discouraged this one) to see if it would heal on its own. He said the amount of damage and the length of time the damage has been there have cost me pretty dearly. UGH. So, I agreed to schedule the surgery. No worries. Then we talked about recovery time and I completely PANICKED! 12 weeks of panic stricken thoughts went through my brain...team leader, SBDM, first weeks of crucial bonding with my students, my student teacher, Renae's wedding, Professional Developments, and OMG - who the heck is going to keep my house clean (up to MY standards?) all went through my head when he said "12 weeks". Then I calmed myself down and thought I would probably be able to manage healing in half that time. Just as he said,"Are you one of those teachers that thinks you can do it in half time?" I nodded. He shook his head. 12 weeks of full recovery and then rehab three times a week to stretch out the repaired tendon.
I left his office thinking that I could NOT have made a bigger mess for myself. I went straight to school and talked with administration. Of course, they assured me that the school would not fall in, and that I would be missed, but not to worry. Then I felt bad about having the "big head" and assuming that I would be more needed than that. I then drove to a friend's house and asked how much she would be willing to take on in my absence. Of course she said she would take all of it - that is the kind of teacher she is. Then I felt bad because I had to ask.
Then I came home and shared with brothers, mom, husband, and son. They all understood, and would work through it (while I am an invalid). Makes me feel worse.
I am sick to my stomach from doing this to myself. Hind sight is 20/20, and if I could go back - - - I would have taken myself in to the doctor on July 11. As it turns out, God has a lesson for me to learn and I am positive it involves humility, patience, and (roll of the eyes) sitting still.
Please pray. Pray that I can learn my lessons with grace. I have a feeling I might be hard to get along with...I can only blame the first couple of days on left over anesthesia. I am going to need about 11 more weeks of prayers to get me past that stage.
Good news: (because there is ALWAYS good news)...I don't have bone cancer, I don't have to have replacement surgeries - hip, ankle, or knee - and the best news is that I really do have people in my life I can count on if and when I finally give in and ask for help. God is there, too, and knows I need help even when I don't agree or acknowledge it. :)
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Randomness
Lots has happened since I was lost posting...
I have been to Oklahoma twice. The first time was to visit and spend Spring Break with family. The second was to see Mac through a procedure for his heart. The first was fun, the second was scary. However, both gave me time to reflect and wonder at how amazing our God is. Over Spring Break I met my niece, Addy, for the first time and fell head over heels in love with her. The second time, I listened as my brothers (all three)played music and sang. I was even treated to a cameo appearance from my dad. Another HUGE bonus, was seeing my nephew again, and getting to hug his neck and apologize for being a horrible aunt.
I watched my son put on a Tux and attend junior Prom. I have tons to say about this, but prefer to keep this little moment to myself for the time being...kind of like savoring the second that chocolate melts on your tongue. It is just too good to share right now.
I came home to CATS testing for two and a half weeks. Ummm, not so much to say there other than I am proud of my students.
Then I took some advice from friends and family to get my ankle checked. Not happening this week, as was planned, but perhaps next week.
At work, I was accepted into a team leader position AND was voted into our SBDM (site based) and feel very blessed.
Overall, life is really great. My family is healthy and my job is great.
I have been to Oklahoma twice. The first time was to visit and spend Spring Break with family. The second was to see Mac through a procedure for his heart. The first was fun, the second was scary. However, both gave me time to reflect and wonder at how amazing our God is. Over Spring Break I met my niece, Addy, for the first time and fell head over heels in love with her. The second time, I listened as my brothers (all three)played music and sang. I was even treated to a cameo appearance from my dad. Another HUGE bonus, was seeing my nephew again, and getting to hug his neck and apologize for being a horrible aunt.
I watched my son put on a Tux and attend junior Prom. I have tons to say about this, but prefer to keep this little moment to myself for the time being...kind of like savoring the second that chocolate melts on your tongue. It is just too good to share right now.
I came home to CATS testing for two and a half weeks. Ummm, not so much to say there other than I am proud of my students.
Then I took some advice from friends and family to get my ankle checked. Not happening this week, as was planned, but perhaps next week.
At work, I was accepted into a team leader position AND was voted into our SBDM (site based) and feel very blessed.
Overall, life is really great. My family is healthy and my job is great.
Thursday, April 7, 2011
Directions
Street signs give us directions to follow. Job descriptions let us know policies (directions) to show us the way. Manuals come with appliances, any test out there has guidelines, and even practices before the big event. I can even put together manufactured furniture with the directions I find in the plastic bag at the bottom of the box.
Having all of these directions makes life a little easier, but throw in the most awesome of responsibility of being a parent and the very best advise from my elders is the best direction I can find; not one manual or description, or guideline can be found anywhere to fit those scenarios that come up at the drop of a hat. I found this to be true this evening. Here is how it goes...
Jeff's phone beeped in the text. He read it and said the same curse word three times consecutively. I asked what the problem was. He said, "Comanche backed into someone at auto zone!". I grabbed my keys, my purse and headed for my jeep. Jeff was right behind me. On the way to auto zone I got a text saying the same thing. I asked if he was okay and started breathing again when he said he was okay. I pulled into parking lot to see my son and another young man standing behind their cars. Comanche's eyes were wide and alert. I hugged my son and asked if everyone was okay and was reassured all involved were fine. The young man's wife was holding a small baby. I asked if the baby was alright. The young mother smiled and said everyone was fine. The young man apologized to Comanche for cursing at him as the trooper pulled in. I explained to Comanche that the officer would want his license, registration and insurance card. Comanche already had everything in his hand. The trooper took everyone's information and I stood by my son. Jeff checked out the damage to both vehicles. Comanche clipped the other car's right tail as he was backing out at an angle. I spoke to the young family and found out they were buying a radiator for a truck that had blown up this morning on the guys way to work. The trooper came over and handed everyone's stuff back and said they could each get a copy of the report and both were advised to call their insurance companies. The trooper left and so did the young family after telling Comanche several stories of how they had both had similar accidents in their lives. I asked Comanche if he was ok to drive home and he said he was shaken up but wanted to go home. We made it home and I explained to Jeff that Comanche didn't need to be yelled at because he was his own worst critic right now. When we were all at home, I hugged Comanche again and told him how proud I was that he stood like a man and did the right thing by that young family. He said he just wanted to cry and wanted to start paying his own insurance. His dad told him that the first accident would be covered by his parents (Lauren has one we pay for) and that the next would be on Comanche. Comanche hugged me several times and apologized.
Here is where a manual would have been helpful. While I understand fender benders, it scares the curl out of my hair to think how much worse most accidents are. Then I have to remember how God's love for His children is even more powerful than a mother's love for her child. My manual is my Bible. My pilot is the God who knows all. I'm not even a co pilot. I'm just the stewardess trying to make everyone's flight more comfortable along the way. I have to remind myself how when I push the captain out of the way, I fly straight into the storm and find myself in a terrible way.
My point is... Parenting is difficult at best, but what a great role model we have as a parent in our Lord and Savior, Jesus.
Having all of these directions makes life a little easier, but throw in the most awesome of responsibility of being a parent and the very best advise from my elders is the best direction I can find; not one manual or description, or guideline can be found anywhere to fit those scenarios that come up at the drop of a hat. I found this to be true this evening. Here is how it goes...
Jeff's phone beeped in the text. He read it and said the same curse word three times consecutively. I asked what the problem was. He said, "Comanche backed into someone at auto zone!". I grabbed my keys, my purse and headed for my jeep. Jeff was right behind me. On the way to auto zone I got a text saying the same thing. I asked if he was okay and started breathing again when he said he was okay. I pulled into parking lot to see my son and another young man standing behind their cars. Comanche's eyes were wide and alert. I hugged my son and asked if everyone was okay and was reassured all involved were fine. The young man's wife was holding a small baby. I asked if the baby was alright. The young mother smiled and said everyone was fine. The young man apologized to Comanche for cursing at him as the trooper pulled in. I explained to Comanche that the officer would want his license, registration and insurance card. Comanche already had everything in his hand. The trooper took everyone's information and I stood by my son. Jeff checked out the damage to both vehicles. Comanche clipped the other car's right tail as he was backing out at an angle. I spoke to the young family and found out they were buying a radiator for a truck that had blown up this morning on the guys way to work. The trooper came over and handed everyone's stuff back and said they could each get a copy of the report and both were advised to call their insurance companies. The trooper left and so did the young family after telling Comanche several stories of how they had both had similar accidents in their lives. I asked Comanche if he was ok to drive home and he said he was shaken up but wanted to go home. We made it home and I explained to Jeff that Comanche didn't need to be yelled at because he was his own worst critic right now. When we were all at home, I hugged Comanche again and told him how proud I was that he stood like a man and did the right thing by that young family. He said he just wanted to cry and wanted to start paying his own insurance. His dad told him that the first accident would be covered by his parents (Lauren has one we pay for) and that the next would be on Comanche. Comanche hugged me several times and apologized.
Here is where a manual would have been helpful. While I understand fender benders, it scares the curl out of my hair to think how much worse most accidents are. Then I have to remember how God's love for His children is even more powerful than a mother's love for her child. My manual is my Bible. My pilot is the God who knows all. I'm not even a co pilot. I'm just the stewardess trying to make everyone's flight more comfortable along the way. I have to remind myself how when I push the captain out of the way, I fly straight into the storm and find myself in a terrible way.
My point is... Parenting is difficult at best, but what a great role model we have as a parent in our Lord and Savior, Jesus.
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Recharging Batteries
Comanche and I spent an extended weekend visiting family in Arkansas and Oklahoma. The drive was incredible - both ways! I had such an enjoyable time talking with my son. We talked about everything from the outer solar systems to how cool it is to just sit and be quiet. We both had a fantastic time recharging our batteries with the Moad and Rainwater side of the family. Steve and Mac were tons of fun to be with, their families were breathtaking (as always) and it was sooooo good to see Mom and Murry...they both looked great and were such a pleasure to stay with.
We were able to recharge our batteries. There is no easier way to say it. We love our home, family, and friends in Kentucky; but there is something about seeing our Midwestern family that rejuvenates and refreshes us. We laugh until we pee, we visit until our tongues are tired, and we are lavished with hugs, kisses, pampering, and Braum's ice cream until we feel as if we have enough energy built up to keep us until the next time.
The weather could not have been more perfect, the timing with each family member was impeccable, and love abounded from every pore in our souls. I thoroughly enjoyed spending quality time with my niece and nephews. Chase and Eli fill my heart with pure sweetness and Addy gives as good as she gets (which is absolutely adorable to watch and participate in).
I am doubly blessed when it comes to family. Actually..triple blessed. My husband and son are true gifts from God, my KY family is so wonderful, and my Midwestern family is the epitome of love and happiness. Thank you, God.
We were able to recharge our batteries. There is no easier way to say it. We love our home, family, and friends in Kentucky; but there is something about seeing our Midwestern family that rejuvenates and refreshes us. We laugh until we pee, we visit until our tongues are tired, and we are lavished with hugs, kisses, pampering, and Braum's ice cream until we feel as if we have enough energy built up to keep us until the next time.
The weather could not have been more perfect, the timing with each family member was impeccable, and love abounded from every pore in our souls. I thoroughly enjoyed spending quality time with my niece and nephews. Chase and Eli fill my heart with pure sweetness and Addy gives as good as she gets (which is absolutely adorable to watch and participate in).
I am doubly blessed when it comes to family. Actually..triple blessed. My husband and son are true gifts from God, my KY family is so wonderful, and my Midwestern family is the epitome of love and happiness. Thank you, God.
Friday, March 11, 2011
Technology
I know. I haven't posted in a while. I have been busy. Isn't that what we all say? I think this thought is what has led me down a technological path. Well, that and I am supposed to be teaching my students to think that way...so I thought I should take a walk down that path as well. So, I put my kids and their little noses to the grindstone this week. I decided that they should be thinking outside of the norm and create their own technological enhancements for the world. The ideas and creativity were astronomical (literally) and I was proud of them. However, as I was contemplating the enhancements I would like to see, it occurred to me that we are an incredibly busy society and we tend to feel a certain amount of entitlement when it comes to convenience.
So, as I am waiting on my latest iPod updates (which take longer than the average person's wait time) I am going to blog about what enhancements I would like to see in the "future"...
I would like to see someone develop an app that would take away the pain that some of these kids (and some adults) have to suffer through. Why can't there be a button that you touch and social services show up at the door to "catch" parents abusing their children? Or better yet, why not develop a social services app that might respond better than the real thing?
I would also like to see an app that would allow the user to conveniently touch a button and have mean people all together be sent to a remote island where there was no free television, education, or other conveniences? That would be pretty cool. :)
I think it is only fair to also have an app where you can just override a stupid comment or situation. Maybe a little button that lets you completely ignore someone - I think it is only fair that if someone says or does something, then the Richter scale app gives them an immediate test (like a shock collar) and decides if they are being ridiculous for a reason, or just out of spite. I think the perfect test would be to use it on the fine people from Westboro when they show up at a military funeral with their stupid signs. I am sure that if there were cameras focused on them, they would jump at the chance to "prove" how righteous they are. Hee hee - that was probably pretty mean of me and if there were such an app, I might find myself "shocked", but there isn't and I have the same freedom to speak as they do. Ironic, isn't it?
Or how about an app that speeds up slow people when they are walking (or driving) in front of you? That would be super sweet.
I am really on a roll, so let's just go ahead and discuss an app that cleans your house, does your laundry, and babysits...oh wait, that last one already exists. Which brings me back to my original idea about parenting.
Well, I still have about an hour before everything updates, so I will continue with my rant...if you please.
Another app might be one that with the touch of a finger will reach out and flick someone on the nose or forehead (we like our choices when it comes to technology). I would like to try this latest idea on the powers that be who make educational decisions for our country. What could they possibly know about individual children? Have they been to my classroom lately? I can't teach because I am running around checking on home lives, dealing with drama, or shall I say it???? Doing the jobs of those around me who prefer to get a paycheck simply because they show up? Oh - WOW! That would be a great app!
I wonder if people in the old west were this frustrated (of course, they thought a stage coach with metal wheels was technology at its best)? But really, I bet people were a whole lot less apt to run their mouths when people around them toted guns and weren't afraid of being politically correct. HHHHmmmmm. Well, that and a few hangings for those that lived to see it.
Anyway - back to my technology discussion:
I think technology is really great. (I mean, could I blog if it weren't for my trusty computer and Internet?) But I think the applications that are out there are for entertainment purposes more than anything else. While I enjoy the finer things in life, I am also not so gullible as to think that we (the human race) already pay ball players way too much to entertain us, and don't even think about the ungodly figures that celebrities make to entertain us - I refuse to mention the Charlie Sheen groupies that couldn't say anything productive if their lives depended on it. Ooops - is that entertainment? Perhaps I am too hard on them and should focus on solutions.
I know...an app that feeds starving children or helps the elderly get medical attention...or people turning to God instead of their phones. Wonder what that kind of world will be like...
Oh, I know. It would look like the world we grew up in, where people spoke face to face and spent their evenings together around a table, and developed relationships instead of apps. Well, there. I have said it and danged if my iPod is still not updated. :)
So, as I am waiting on my latest iPod updates (which take longer than the average person's wait time) I am going to blog about what enhancements I would like to see in the "future"...
I would like to see someone develop an app that would take away the pain that some of these kids (and some adults) have to suffer through. Why can't there be a button that you touch and social services show up at the door to "catch" parents abusing their children? Or better yet, why not develop a social services app that might respond better than the real thing?
I would also like to see an app that would allow the user to conveniently touch a button and have mean people all together be sent to a remote island where there was no free television, education, or other conveniences? That would be pretty cool. :)
I think it is only fair to also have an app where you can just override a stupid comment or situation. Maybe a little button that lets you completely ignore someone - I think it is only fair that if someone says or does something, then the Richter scale app gives them an immediate test (like a shock collar) and decides if they are being ridiculous for a reason, or just out of spite. I think the perfect test would be to use it on the fine people from Westboro when they show up at a military funeral with their stupid signs. I am sure that if there were cameras focused on them, they would jump at the chance to "prove" how righteous they are. Hee hee - that was probably pretty mean of me and if there were such an app, I might find myself "shocked", but there isn't and I have the same freedom to speak as they do. Ironic, isn't it?
Or how about an app that speeds up slow people when they are walking (or driving) in front of you? That would be super sweet.
I am really on a roll, so let's just go ahead and discuss an app that cleans your house, does your laundry, and babysits...oh wait, that last one already exists. Which brings me back to my original idea about parenting.
Well, I still have about an hour before everything updates, so I will continue with my rant...if you please.
Another app might be one that with the touch of a finger will reach out and flick someone on the nose or forehead (we like our choices when it comes to technology). I would like to try this latest idea on the powers that be who make educational decisions for our country. What could they possibly know about individual children? Have they been to my classroom lately? I can't teach because I am running around checking on home lives, dealing with drama, or shall I say it???? Doing the jobs of those around me who prefer to get a paycheck simply because they show up? Oh - WOW! That would be a great app!
I wonder if people in the old west were this frustrated (of course, they thought a stage coach with metal wheels was technology at its best)? But really, I bet people were a whole lot less apt to run their mouths when people around them toted guns and weren't afraid of being politically correct. HHHHmmmmm. Well, that and a few hangings for those that lived to see it.
Anyway - back to my technology discussion:
I think technology is really great. (I mean, could I blog if it weren't for my trusty computer and Internet?) But I think the applications that are out there are for entertainment purposes more than anything else. While I enjoy the finer things in life, I am also not so gullible as to think that we (the human race) already pay ball players way too much to entertain us, and don't even think about the ungodly figures that celebrities make to entertain us - I refuse to mention the Charlie Sheen groupies that couldn't say anything productive if their lives depended on it. Ooops - is that entertainment? Perhaps I am too hard on them and should focus on solutions.
I know...an app that feeds starving children or helps the elderly get medical attention...or people turning to God instead of their phones. Wonder what that kind of world will be like...
Oh, I know. It would look like the world we grew up in, where people spoke face to face and spent their evenings together around a table, and developed relationships instead of apps. Well, there. I have said it and danged if my iPod is still not updated. :)
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Pretty busy...as of late.
Wow! This semester has really picked up and I am more busy than what I had anticipated. I am teaching my beloved 7th graders during the day, and teaching my college classes in the evenings. When I am not working on those, I am either doing bus duty, in some kind of committee meeting, or trying to catch up on lost sleep.
I get to see my family on occasion, but only in five or ten minute spurts. The good news is that the sun is shining (most days) now, and that seems to give me the energy I need to keep on kicking.
I apologize to those of you that are faithful blog readers, but I think I better prepare you for the worst. I have agreed to teach more college classes this summer, so it may be a little while before I can share mind music with you. Until then, keep on praying for me and I will do the same for you. I never run out of time for my moments with God. :)
I get to see my family on occasion, but only in five or ten minute spurts. The good news is that the sun is shining (most days) now, and that seems to give me the energy I need to keep on kicking.
I apologize to those of you that are faithful blog readers, but I think I better prepare you for the worst. I have agreed to teach more college classes this summer, so it may be a little while before I can share mind music with you. Until then, keep on praying for me and I will do the same for you. I never run out of time for my moments with God. :)
Sunday, January 9, 2011
New Year
I wanted to give myself a week or two to consider the new year. In the meantime, I have accepted a part time position teaching college English again this semester and was surprised to find out I would be teaching two different levels. The first level, I have taught many times and feel pretty confident with the material. However, the second material is new so I have had to read the text, make some notes, and say special prayers that I won't do a disservice to the students who are looking to better themselves.
I have also started a new semester at my "real" job...teaching 7th grade English. I was also surprised here, by finding out that my students have not had grammar, spelling, or punctuation lessons since their fourth grades. Whew! What started out as a review has now become a 9 week (and maybe a semester) long thing. They are also being asked to read a novel on their own for the first time. Only being a week into the new semester, I have found I am pleased with their progress. They don't like either of the assignments, but I think they will rise to the challenge.
As for family...we are all doing really great. Jeff still loves his job, Comanche brought home really great grades from last semester, and we are all on a health kick. I started weight watchers and the three of us are regular attendees at the gym. Jeff and I are participating in the local "Get Fit Challenge" and are on different teams. I am on a team with other teachers, and he is on a team with people from his work. Either way - I believe we are both in a win win situation.
Friends and extended families seem to be doing well. So - all in all...this year is off to a good start. With the grace of God and His love and mercy, we will make it through another year.
I have also started a new semester at my "real" job...teaching 7th grade English. I was also surprised here, by finding out that my students have not had grammar, spelling, or punctuation lessons since their fourth grades. Whew! What started out as a review has now become a 9 week (and maybe a semester) long thing. They are also being asked to read a novel on their own for the first time. Only being a week into the new semester, I have found I am pleased with their progress. They don't like either of the assignments, but I think they will rise to the challenge.
As for family...we are all doing really great. Jeff still loves his job, Comanche brought home really great grades from last semester, and we are all on a health kick. I started weight watchers and the three of us are regular attendees at the gym. Jeff and I are participating in the local "Get Fit Challenge" and are on different teams. I am on a team with other teachers, and he is on a team with people from his work. Either way - I believe we are both in a win win situation.
Friends and extended families seem to be doing well. So - all in all...this year is off to a good start. With the grace of God and His love and mercy, we will make it through another year.
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