Thanks to Anne and Stacy (my daughter-in-laws) being pregnant, I have sympathy everythings when I'm around them. Yesterday I was around Anne and today I was "craving" homemade onion rings. It didn't really go with the rest of dinner... at all, but Greg made them for me anyway. Anne and Jas got here for Sunday dinner after church and no surprise.... Anne loves onion rings and had been thinking that onion rings would be good. We may all put on weight this pregnancy. Unfortunately, not all of us will produce a baby at the end and shed instant weight!
So we have started going for Sunday drives and I love to look at the trees during the different times of the year. I know that we often love certain things like old barns and pastures, and specific types of trees because of emotional connections we have to them from our past. I started thinking about why I love trees so much. As a child growing up on Grandma and Grandpa Tucker's farm I was surrounded by orchards, tall lawn trees, meadow trees, and lilac bushes large enough to be called trees. I remember the smell of the lilacs by my bedroom window on early summer mornings. I remember picking Bing cherries and throwing pie cherries (and getting the flyswatter for that one). I loved climbing trees and considered each tree a challenge and an adventure. Some trees, like the great big one in the middle of grandma's yard, were a constant challenge and I would make it farther up the tree each year. Some trees had birds nests in them and some had tire swings.
I remember the sound of the trees too. I loved sleeping outside in the yard on a mattress beneath the trees in the summer. The warm wind would rustle through the leaves and it's like each tree added harmony to the other. It's still one of my favorite sounds. And if a warm summer rain joined the melody (as long as it was not a pounding rain) I would either dive deeper under my homemade jean quilt or I would sneak out of the bed and run to the bridge over the canal. I loved to go swimming in the rain because if you went under the water you could hear it and it was so cool. Another one of nature's melodies.
One thing I miss about living in the country is all the trees and the sound of rustling leaves. I would like my grandchildren to sleep on a mattress in my yard and play in a barn, and gather eggs from the chickens, and listen to the leaves on the trees, and get chased by the crazy geese. And.... this is why... our next house will have some land with it and TREES. :D
Sunday, January 23, 2011
Saturday, January 22, 2011
When you smile... the world smiles back
I tried it. It's true. It has to be a strong sincere smile. I had a good Friday. School went well and practice went well. I really enjoy class discussions with my students when I see their perspective of the world and many things broadening. We have been discussing the Russian Revolution and modern Russia today along with Russia's stated intent to support Palestine. As I watch them thinking past their disconnected texting relationships and withdrawn i-pod worlds I see them getting the bigger picture of life and the world. Too bad that isn't on a standardized test. Too bad our system is set to teach to the test. Too bad I've had it and I'm just going to teach. If they fire me, I'll go back to my old job where I made more money without a college degree and didn't have to put up with government mandates from clueless politicians and mislead constituents. And they wonder why 50% of all new teachers leave the profession.
Back to the positive... in speech class they gave impromptus on random topics drawn out of a hat. My eyes and perspective were opened as well. We have some very talented and creative students. One kid honestly said to me, "So you want us to just tell you what we think?" My reply: "Yes, without swearing." We continually discuss the difference between having an opinion and having an "educated" opinion. One is learned; the other is earned. :D I feel like a ton of bricks have been lifted from my shoulders. I'm going to teach what I think should be taught and how I want to teach it. I'm going to push them, encourage them, and learn from them. I'm going to try to enjoy teaching again.
I am enjoying coaching as well, but sadly the season is drawing to a close. The girls are already sad about that and were upset that they might get a "bye" in the tournament if they play as expected this last week of regular conference play. That is too funny. "We'd rather play" was their comment. Well they have a dreaded "Monday" game coming up, so we'll see how they do. It's a team we barely beat, so should be good.
Rellie was waiting after school with his suitcase so that rounded out my happy Friday. He came to practice with me. This morning Jas and Anne brought baby Maddi over so they could go to the temple in Boise and have a "date". She is growing up so fast. She is walking around now. Not running yet.... but walking. She ate oatmeal with papa and pudding with Rellie. Shhhhh. The parents (our children) always tell us their kids nap.... we never see it. I guess we're just too exciting. :D
Here's a happiness tip. Please try it.... especially if you're a female. When you're driving down the road, DON'T THINK ABOUT WHAT YOU HAVE TO DO NEXT OR WHAT HAPPENED EARLIER TODAY..... look at the trees, the sky, nature in general. When you're laying in bed at night... DON'T THINK ABOUT WHAT YOU HAVE TO DO NEXT OR WHAT HAPPENED EARLIER TODAY..... look at the person next to you and focus on them. OR get some hot chocolate and a puzzle and focus on that. OR play with a child (or grandchild). Or read a fiction book. You have to take time to smell the roses, savor the moment, and LIVE TODAY. Women don't do that and we get stressed, fat, and discouraged or angry. Maybe it's just me. Maybe I'm the only one who needs a healthier emotional me. Last year was the body and this year I'm trying to find ways to a healthier and happier emotional me. It won't always be perfect, but just like learning to eat healthier, I know I can learn to be emotionally healthier.
Back to the positive... in speech class they gave impromptus on random topics drawn out of a hat. My eyes and perspective were opened as well. We have some very talented and creative students. One kid honestly said to me, "So you want us to just tell you what we think?" My reply: "Yes, without swearing." We continually discuss the difference between having an opinion and having an "educated" opinion. One is learned; the other is earned. :D I feel like a ton of bricks have been lifted from my shoulders. I'm going to teach what I think should be taught and how I want to teach it. I'm going to push them, encourage them, and learn from them. I'm going to try to enjoy teaching again.
I am enjoying coaching as well, but sadly the season is drawing to a close. The girls are already sad about that and were upset that they might get a "bye" in the tournament if they play as expected this last week of regular conference play. That is too funny. "We'd rather play" was their comment. Well they have a dreaded "Monday" game coming up, so we'll see how they do. It's a team we barely beat, so should be good.
Rellie was waiting after school with his suitcase so that rounded out my happy Friday. He came to practice with me. This morning Jas and Anne brought baby Maddi over so they could go to the temple in Boise and have a "date". She is growing up so fast. She is walking around now. Not running yet.... but walking. She ate oatmeal with papa and pudding with Rellie. Shhhhh. The parents (our children) always tell us their kids nap.... we never see it. I guess we're just too exciting. :D
Here's a happiness tip. Please try it.... especially if you're a female. When you're driving down the road, DON'T THINK ABOUT WHAT YOU HAVE TO DO NEXT OR WHAT HAPPENED EARLIER TODAY..... look at the trees, the sky, nature in general. When you're laying in bed at night... DON'T THINK ABOUT WHAT YOU HAVE TO DO NEXT OR WHAT HAPPENED EARLIER TODAY..... look at the person next to you and focus on them. OR get some hot chocolate and a puzzle and focus on that. OR play with a child (or grandchild). Or read a fiction book. You have to take time to smell the roses, savor the moment, and LIVE TODAY. Women don't do that and we get stressed, fat, and discouraged or angry. Maybe it's just me. Maybe I'm the only one who needs a healthier emotional me. Last year was the body and this year I'm trying to find ways to a healthier and happier emotional me. It won't always be perfect, but just like learning to eat healthier, I know I can learn to be emotionally healthier.
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Sheep Anyone?
My students are reading Animal Farm right now and starting to assess which animal represents them politically. Boxer is the workhorse that just continually does his job and thinks the answer to all the problems that start to occur on the farm is.... work harder and don't question authority. Benjamin is the donkey that is educated but indifferent feeling that his voice doesn't matter anyway and won't change anything. The pigs run everything and believe they're entitled to everything and the world owes them everything because they're the political leaders so automatically they are right. Within the pigs are two parties which causes friction and as they all purport a desire to do what is best for the "whole society" their actions are contradictory as they plot and plan against the other party while proclaiming they are all on the same side. The sheep just blindly follow as their parents have for generations and repeat whatever the pigs tell them to even if it's obviously not right. Molly is the pretty little horse that cares more about her looks and sugar cubes than politics or what is right or wrong. As long as she's happy... that's all that matters.
Now as you look through these characters, I'm sure you can think of people who fit each of these profiles. This book isn't about American government however, it's about the Russian Revolution. Orwell used this satirical piece to reveal the downfalls of a government that we had espoused to be an ally only to later find out about the atrocities that were being committed in that country. As we vote, as we study out the facts, I pray that we are not as sheep lead blindly by one party, and that we are not selfish like Molly, or complacent like Benjamin. I hope that we work hard like Boxer, but don't let people walk all over our profession or us. Mostly though, I hope that we don't become so caught up in party line that we forget that we a ONE country with a goal to make all people happy and an intellectual belief that shows more respect than ignorance, more tolerance than prejudice, and more compassion than competition. I hope we keep an open mind and an open heart and remember that we are all God's children and we are all striving toward the good of our society. Otherwise, we make mockery of democracy and our Constitution.
Now as you look through these characters, I'm sure you can think of people who fit each of these profiles. This book isn't about American government however, it's about the Russian Revolution. Orwell used this satirical piece to reveal the downfalls of a government that we had espoused to be an ally only to later find out about the atrocities that were being committed in that country. As we vote, as we study out the facts, I pray that we are not as sheep lead blindly by one party, and that we are not selfish like Molly, or complacent like Benjamin. I hope that we work hard like Boxer, but don't let people walk all over our profession or us. Mostly though, I hope that we don't become so caught up in party line that we forget that we a ONE country with a goal to make all people happy and an intellectual belief that shows more respect than ignorance, more tolerance than prejudice, and more compassion than competition. I hope we keep an open mind and an open heart and remember that we are all God's children and we are all striving toward the good of our society. Otherwise, we make mockery of democracy and our Constitution.
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Take time
Take time to give back to those who give you the most. Are we always asking and wanting? Are we taking more than giving in a relationship? It's a new year. It's a new start. What are we doing with it? The same thing? Change is growth and as inevitable as old age. Are we becoming butterflies or shriveled prunes?
If we frequently find ourselves waiting for the "good times" or waiting to find a friend or waiting for a better house, job, life..... maybe we should ask ourselves why? Can we find joy in now and are we doing all we can to make those new friends or make those changes that will make us happier people? Most importantly, are we thankful for the jobs we have now, the house we have now, the life we have now, the family we have now? If your life is constantly yearning for a fast forward button... I think there is a problem.... you are not living today.
It's okay to have goals in dreams. In fact... .you should. But... don't let tomorrow erase all your todays.
I love my family and I am so blessed with a good job, a house, plenty of money, friends, opportunities, the gospel, and a husband who means everything to me and loves me unconditionally. I am thankful for today.
If we frequently find ourselves waiting for the "good times" or waiting to find a friend or waiting for a better house, job, life..... maybe we should ask ourselves why? Can we find joy in now and are we doing all we can to make those new friends or make those changes that will make us happier people? Most importantly, are we thankful for the jobs we have now, the house we have now, the life we have now, the family we have now? If your life is constantly yearning for a fast forward button... I think there is a problem.... you are not living today.
It's okay to have goals in dreams. In fact... .you should. But... don't let tomorrow erase all your todays.
I love my family and I am so blessed with a good job, a house, plenty of money, friends, opportunities, the gospel, and a husband who means everything to me and loves me unconditionally. I am thankful for today.
Sunday, January 16, 2011
Sabbath Sunday
Church went quickly today and my lesson went well. It was about fasting. I found this very interesting study that was conducted in the 1930's on earthworms... I know... I like weird facts... and they took these earthworms and made some of them fast once a week and the ones who fasted, lived 19 generations longer than the ones who didn't. Okay, so they're worms and we're not, but occasional fasting detoxifies the body, makes our fat storage work out, and boosts our immune system. Then of course there's the spiritual benefits we experience as we humble ourselves and put temporal things aside to focus on the spiritual.
After church we had Stacy, Tammy, her son JJ, and Jas, Anne, and baby Maddi over for dinner. Then the boys played games while the girls visited and were entertained baby Maddi. After they left we went and picked up Rellie. As usual he had on his PJs with his iron man boots and favorite stocking cap. (see above pictures). Also got some cute pics of Maddi eating her peas. The girls an eatin' machine!
Jeremy called to say that Tucker's sick now. Yesterday it was Daisha. Families share more than love-- they share the germs! Joy! I'm not working tomorrow and don't have bball practice, so it'll be nice to spend some time with Rellie and to visit some people. Speaking of Rellie, he's finally got papa to sleep, so I better put papa to bed and finish watching "Up" with Rellie. At least papa made it to midnight. Maybe we can all actually sleep in till 7am tomorrow! Yeah!
After church we had Stacy, Tammy, her son JJ, and Jas, Anne, and baby Maddi over for dinner. Then the boys played games while the girls visited and were entertained baby Maddi. After they left we went and picked up Rellie. As usual he had on his PJs with his iron man boots and favorite stocking cap. (see above pictures). Also got some cute pics of Maddi eating her peas. The girls an eatin' machine!
Jeremy called to say that Tucker's sick now. Yesterday it was Daisha. Families share more than love-- they share the germs! Joy! I'm not working tomorrow and don't have bball practice, so it'll be nice to spend some time with Rellie and to visit some people. Speaking of Rellie, he's finally got papa to sleep, so I better put papa to bed and finish watching "Up" with Rellie. At least papa made it to midnight. Maybe we can all actually sleep in till 7am tomorrow! Yeah!
Saturday, January 15, 2011
Foggy Weather and Weird Diners
I would like to say that it was nice to sleep in after such a long, hectic Finals Week..... but no! The husband is up at 6am this morning. Of course when you wake up and you KNOW you don't have to get up..... you can't go back to sleep. So I got up and fixed breakfast and we headed to my game. I knew the girls were going to play well because I had a few varsity players come practice with us yesterday and it went really well. I also had both Jeremy and Jason there assisting me with the guards and posts and it was just a good practice.
I've mentioned before that you have to address the mental aspect of the game as well as the skills and X's and O's. Doing little things here and there to bring the game to one more level is what it takes to continue to progress. We're still hammering the fundamentals for the first 30-45 minutes of every practice, but I'm also adding a little something mental. The varsity players also benefit by teaching and mentoring. We learn from teaching. We're more aware of our own game when someone is looking up to us too. Next week we don't have any games so we'll prepare for our last week of the regular season.
Today they played like a military unit. Know your job. Do your job. Trust your unit. Have their back. Execute. I was able to play the full team again. At half time the other team had only scored 2 pts. Our focus was defense and it showed. We scored too, but we scored because of our defense. They ran the floor nicely, but I wasn't as happy with our passing today as I normally am. Still, they did a great job.
After the game we went to eat at a place in Boise that we wanted try. It was called Donie Mac's Trailerpark Diner. We had heard good things. All I can say is that it was a waste of our gas and money. The hamburgers were small, the buns greasy, and the fries were okay. The place looks very cool, but we both agreed that we wouldn't go back. After that we went to Maddi's party and it was just cute. They made little lady bug cupcakes and Maddi loved having her cousins over and opening her presents. She's still pretty partial to the teapot and teacup she already had though. It makes a pouring sound when she tips it and she pretends to drink. Jilly was quite happy with Maddi's new presents though and they shared quite well. I think we got some cute pictures.
The fog was thick this morning and the roads icy (but they melted as soon as the sun came up). Before the melting part though, the husband (who is well known for falling both up and down stairs) biffed it on the sidewalk going out to get the paper this morning. I was not aware of the extent of the "biffing" until we later went out to go somewhere and I noticed the decorative bark all over the sidewalk. Then, when we were are Maddi's party he took out Jason's toe with his toe (toe wars). It was quite loud and gnarly sounding. Then..... when we got home tonight he was going around me by the dining room table and took out the edge of the bar counter with the toe again. And this.... is why we don't dance. :D I am going to wear shin guards to bed tonight. Have a feeling the killer toe might go crazy and kick me!
SO glad it's Sunday tomorrow.
I've mentioned before that you have to address the mental aspect of the game as well as the skills and X's and O's. Doing little things here and there to bring the game to one more level is what it takes to continue to progress. We're still hammering the fundamentals for the first 30-45 minutes of every practice, but I'm also adding a little something mental. The varsity players also benefit by teaching and mentoring. We learn from teaching. We're more aware of our own game when someone is looking up to us too. Next week we don't have any games so we'll prepare for our last week of the regular season.
Today they played like a military unit. Know your job. Do your job. Trust your unit. Have their back. Execute. I was able to play the full team again. At half time the other team had only scored 2 pts. Our focus was defense and it showed. We scored too, but we scored because of our defense. They ran the floor nicely, but I wasn't as happy with our passing today as I normally am. Still, they did a great job.
After the game we went to eat at a place in Boise that we wanted try. It was called Donie Mac's Trailerpark Diner. We had heard good things. All I can say is that it was a waste of our gas and money. The hamburgers were small, the buns greasy, and the fries were okay. The place looks very cool, but we both agreed that we wouldn't go back. After that we went to Maddi's party and it was just cute. They made little lady bug cupcakes and Maddi loved having her cousins over and opening her presents. She's still pretty partial to the teapot and teacup she already had though. It makes a pouring sound when she tips it and she pretends to drink. Jilly was quite happy with Maddi's new presents though and they shared quite well. I think we got some cute pictures.
The fog was thick this morning and the roads icy (but they melted as soon as the sun came up). Before the melting part though, the husband (who is well known for falling both up and down stairs) biffed it on the sidewalk going out to get the paper this morning. I was not aware of the extent of the "biffing" until we later went out to go somewhere and I noticed the decorative bark all over the sidewalk. Then, when we were are Maddi's party he took out Jason's toe with his toe (toe wars). It was quite loud and gnarly sounding. Then..... when we got home tonight he was going around me by the dining room table and took out the edge of the bar counter with the toe again. And this.... is why we don't dance. :D I am going to wear shin guards to bed tonight. Have a feeling the killer toe might go crazy and kick me!
SO glad it's Sunday tomorrow.
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Feels like Monday
I'm so used to having Monday games that it's weird having one in the middle of the week. The good news is..... it's NOT Monday. Yeah! In fact, there are only two more days left in the work week. Finals week is always so long because the schedules change, classes are longer, and there's a lot to grade each night. Throw in four games between the older girls and my freshmen and I'm just very tired.
Okay... I'll quit whining. One more whine first.... no one gave me any feedback on yesterday's post about education. I guess that means I really am just getting old.
So all my players got plenty of playing time tonight. It's always good when the girls that don't play as much get to play more, but I worry about the false confidence it gives my starters because they get lax then we have another game this week. At least we have two practices in between to prepare. One of my player's sister is dying of cancer and a lot of her family was in town so they came to watch her play tonight. I played her a lot and she had a good game. I was happy for her. That family needs every ray of sunshine they can get right now. I had Whit Garrett put together a t-shirt and photo quilt of my player's sister and I'm giving it to her at the game Saturday. Whit did an amazing job. I will post a picture. Thank you Whit!
Saw one of my former students after the game tonight and she has two kids now and we caught up on the whole family and it was really good to see her. I need to go see her mom. We used to be very close. Now that I promised I would do more with friends this year and..... so far.... I'm not. At least I still keep thinking about it! :D
I need to get the cartoon strips neatly laid out for Aly too so she can draw them up for me. I'm such a slacker right now. I hate it when I'm in survivor mode instead of soaking up life. Somebody switch gears! Light.... tunnel.... train. :D
Okay... I'll quit whining. One more whine first.... no one gave me any feedback on yesterday's post about education. I guess that means I really am just getting old.
So all my players got plenty of playing time tonight. It's always good when the girls that don't play as much get to play more, but I worry about the false confidence it gives my starters because they get lax then we have another game this week. At least we have two practices in between to prepare. One of my player's sister is dying of cancer and a lot of her family was in town so they came to watch her play tonight. I played her a lot and she had a good game. I was happy for her. That family needs every ray of sunshine they can get right now. I had Whit Garrett put together a t-shirt and photo quilt of my player's sister and I'm giving it to her at the game Saturday. Whit did an amazing job. I will post a picture. Thank you Whit!
Saw one of my former students after the game tonight and she has two kids now and we caught up on the whole family and it was really good to see her. I need to go see her mom. We used to be very close. Now that I promised I would do more with friends this year and..... so far.... I'm not. At least I still keep thinking about it! :D
I need to get the cartoon strips neatly laid out for Aly too so she can draw them up for me. I'm such a slacker right now. I hate it when I'm in survivor mode instead of soaking up life. Somebody switch gears! Light.... tunnel.... train. :D
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
This Generation
My mind has been going back to this movie I saw a couple years ago. I can't remember the name of it. It was animated. All the people live in the center of the earth or on another planet or something. Anyway....the part that stuck with me is that everything was so automated-- so technology based-- that people didn't even bother to get up and walk anymore. They just sat in their glide mobile or whatever it was and had a remote for everything. Needless to say they were obese, but that didn't bother them either.
I surveyed my students today and asked them to tell me what makes a good teacher. Number one on their list...... They have to be fun. I asked for examples. Well, so and so dances for us and so and so is laid back and lets us shoot papers in the trashcan. Then I asked how a teacher should dress. They said they didn't care and that it really didn't matter to them. I asked if sweats would be okay. Yeah.... they said that would be fine. Who cares. I asked them "what" they wanted a good teacher to teach them..... Answer: just anything "fun".
I remember back to my favorite teacher.... Mrs. James. She taught me to read and she taught me that I SHOULD want to be in the highest reading group. She taught me that I needed to take pride in my penmanship because it didn't just say something about me... it said something about my family. She dressed in skirts or dress pants with silk blouses and a sweater. She wore horned rim glasses with little diamonds in the corner and the chains attached because she let them hang at her neck sometimes. She was always well groomed and so professional. I never wanted to disappoint her. I never wanted to be her "buddy". I wanted to make her proud. I worked very hard to do that and I was rewarded with good grades and a kind smile. We didn't watch a single movie in there and we didn't have i-pods or cell phones to distract us. We cleaned our desks out and organized them once a week because it was a reflection of who we were and we didn't want to be perceived as messy.
I guess I am getting old. I long for manners and high expectations and pride (not "entertainment value") in school work. Is learning the primary goal... or entertainment? I have my work cut out for me. Let us all pray. :D So much for getting to bed early. Share your thoughts with me on education. I need some suggestions. Maybe I really am just getting old.
I surveyed my students today and asked them to tell me what makes a good teacher. Number one on their list...... They have to be fun. I asked for examples. Well, so and so dances for us and so and so is laid back and lets us shoot papers in the trashcan. Then I asked how a teacher should dress. They said they didn't care and that it really didn't matter to them. I asked if sweats would be okay. Yeah.... they said that would be fine. Who cares. I asked them "what" they wanted a good teacher to teach them..... Answer: just anything "fun".
I remember back to my favorite teacher.... Mrs. James. She taught me to read and she taught me that I SHOULD want to be in the highest reading group. She taught me that I needed to take pride in my penmanship because it didn't just say something about me... it said something about my family. She dressed in skirts or dress pants with silk blouses and a sweater. She wore horned rim glasses with little diamonds in the corner and the chains attached because she let them hang at her neck sometimes. She was always well groomed and so professional. I never wanted to disappoint her. I never wanted to be her "buddy". I wanted to make her proud. I worked very hard to do that and I was rewarded with good grades and a kind smile. We didn't watch a single movie in there and we didn't have i-pods or cell phones to distract us. We cleaned our desks out and organized them once a week because it was a reflection of who we were and we didn't want to be perceived as messy.
I guess I am getting old. I long for manners and high expectations and pride (not "entertainment value") in school work. Is learning the primary goal... or entertainment? I have my work cut out for me. Let us all pray. :D So much for getting to bed early. Share your thoughts with me on education. I need some suggestions. Maybe I really am just getting old.
Friday, January 7, 2011
Crocodile Wars
It was a long day at work despite taking off yesterday to try to kick this crud. Sleeping most of the day yesterday did seem to help a lot though. I think I'm through the worst of it. My manish cough/bark was more feminine today and no kleenex tampons up the nose to stop the dripping. In fact, other than a few coughs here and there today, I'm feeling much better. I can't say enough about simply sleeping. This coming from someone who gets a side ache if I sleep more than 6 hours. A.D.D.
So yesterday when I stayed home I woke up at 3 am because I was so stuffed up I couldn't breathe and I was sucking all the air out of the room. Breathing through your mouth only when sleeping is not attractive, healthy, or quiet. So... I got up at 3 am and did the puzzle, then checked my facebook... surprise... no one on at 4am. So... I decided (in between coughing up several lungs and refilling the nose tampons) to work on my New Year's resolution. I am trying to FINISH WHAT I'VE STARTED as one of my resolutions. I have written several things... okay... boxes.. and never published any of it. Not to say it's worthy of publishing... just to say... how can you ever know if you never try. So anyway, one idea I've always had is to write my own comic strips. I know... I've already said my brain is not normal.
I always get so disgusted when I read the newspaper's comic strips and I want to write in and say, "Look up the definition of comic!" On a scale of lame to funny... 95% rate as lame. I can't believe people get paid for them. They used to be funny. I loved the Far Side. So anyway, at 4 am, I wrote up my first series. It was easy because I've been thinking about them for so long. The first series is.... Grandma Ruby. I know you're smiling. See... they're already funny. And what a great tribute to a great lady. Don't tell her though because I'm surprising her with them on her birthday. So anyway, I was going to do my own illustrating, but then I thought, that's a lot of extra work and we have an artist/illustrator in the family.. Alysha. So I emailed her and she's going to do the illustrating for me. Thank you Aly!
So then it was 5:30 and Greg came walking into the computer room and said I needed to go to bed and not to work. Suddenly I was tired. Maybe because I felt relieved at accomplishing (well almost) one of my goals already. I had some hot chocolate with him then went to bed when he left at 6am. I slept till 11am.
So that was yesterday. Today after work I went to Mandy's to pick up Rellie. He is always waiting with his little suitcase and Iron Man boots. I have a feeling he will even wear them in the summer. Chubby (a.k.a. Kayson) had just woke up from his nap and he was his usual little happy self grinning from ear to ear. It was hard not to bring him too, but I'm barely feeling better and don't want to give him back the crud (they've had it) because he's still a baby (big baby-- but still a baby). While I was picking up Rellie, the husband was picking up the three other older grandkids and some pizza. As soon as they got home and ate some pizza Daisha and I headed to practice. She was my assistant. She loves coaching. The girls like having her there too. Some of them are a bit intimidated by the fact that at age 6 she can dribble while running, and dribble with her left hand. :D Enough said there.
That said... we had a good practice and the girls continue to come together as a team both on and off the court. I can't say enough about team dinners, team activities, and sending little notes with goodies. It's extra work, but it not only pays off, it makes for better memories and the journey is the part that stays. So after practice we stopped at the store because Daisha wanted bacon (I was out), French toast, and eggs for breakfast. My thoughts too, so we had to go get the stuff to make them. We also picked up some ice cream. Jas's favorite-- Moose Tracks and Daisha's Cookies and Cream. Then we went home and the kids helped us take down the Christmas tree but papa let them turn on the outside Christmas lights "one last time". They come down tomorrow. They were very helpful and cute helping me carefully put away each ornament. I remember each ornament on our tree when I was little. We each had special ones. I guess that's why I'll never be a "theme tree" kind of person. I like the memories behind the ornaments.
After the tree was sadly retired, the crocodile game started. I had never heard of this game before but quickly realized it was designed to jump from couch to couch and involved a great deal of giggling and rolling on top of each other. Then they would run around in the middle saying they were crocodiles and then the rolling around and giggling again. To calm the crocodiles papa dished them all up some ice cream. Then we had family prayer, a few more giggling bouts, and then they were all out.... including papa. They are all so cute and precious. We are so blessed in our family. Before long the three younger ones will be big enough to join the silly trips to Mem and Papa's house. Maybe we do need a bigger house again...... :D
So yesterday when I stayed home I woke up at 3 am because I was so stuffed up I couldn't breathe and I was sucking all the air out of the room. Breathing through your mouth only when sleeping is not attractive, healthy, or quiet. So... I got up at 3 am and did the puzzle, then checked my facebook... surprise... no one on at 4am. So... I decided (in between coughing up several lungs and refilling the nose tampons) to work on my New Year's resolution. I am trying to FINISH WHAT I'VE STARTED as one of my resolutions. I have written several things... okay... boxes.. and never published any of it. Not to say it's worthy of publishing... just to say... how can you ever know if you never try. So anyway, one idea I've always had is to write my own comic strips. I know... I've already said my brain is not normal.
I always get so disgusted when I read the newspaper's comic strips and I want to write in and say, "Look up the definition of comic!" On a scale of lame to funny... 95% rate as lame. I can't believe people get paid for them. They used to be funny. I loved the Far Side. So anyway, at 4 am, I wrote up my first series. It was easy because I've been thinking about them for so long. The first series is.... Grandma Ruby. I know you're smiling. See... they're already funny. And what a great tribute to a great lady. Don't tell her though because I'm surprising her with them on her birthday. So anyway, I was going to do my own illustrating, but then I thought, that's a lot of extra work and we have an artist/illustrator in the family.. Alysha. So I emailed her and she's going to do the illustrating for me. Thank you Aly!
So then it was 5:30 and Greg came walking into the computer room and said I needed to go to bed and not to work. Suddenly I was tired. Maybe because I felt relieved at accomplishing (well almost) one of my goals already. I had some hot chocolate with him then went to bed when he left at 6am. I slept till 11am.
So that was yesterday. Today after work I went to Mandy's to pick up Rellie. He is always waiting with his little suitcase and Iron Man boots. I have a feeling he will even wear them in the summer. Chubby (a.k.a. Kayson) had just woke up from his nap and he was his usual little happy self grinning from ear to ear. It was hard not to bring him too, but I'm barely feeling better and don't want to give him back the crud (they've had it) because he's still a baby (big baby-- but still a baby). While I was picking up Rellie, the husband was picking up the three other older grandkids and some pizza. As soon as they got home and ate some pizza Daisha and I headed to practice. She was my assistant. She loves coaching. The girls like having her there too. Some of them are a bit intimidated by the fact that at age 6 she can dribble while running, and dribble with her left hand. :D Enough said there.
That said... we had a good practice and the girls continue to come together as a team both on and off the court. I can't say enough about team dinners, team activities, and sending little notes with goodies. It's extra work, but it not only pays off, it makes for better memories and the journey is the part that stays. So after practice we stopped at the store because Daisha wanted bacon (I was out), French toast, and eggs for breakfast. My thoughts too, so we had to go get the stuff to make them. We also picked up some ice cream. Jas's favorite-- Moose Tracks and Daisha's Cookies and Cream. Then we went home and the kids helped us take down the Christmas tree but papa let them turn on the outside Christmas lights "one last time". They come down tomorrow. They were very helpful and cute helping me carefully put away each ornament. I remember each ornament on our tree when I was little. We each had special ones. I guess that's why I'll never be a "theme tree" kind of person. I like the memories behind the ornaments.
After the tree was sadly retired, the crocodile game started. I had never heard of this game before but quickly realized it was designed to jump from couch to couch and involved a great deal of giggling and rolling on top of each other. Then they would run around in the middle saying they were crocodiles and then the rolling around and giggling again. To calm the crocodiles papa dished them all up some ice cream. Then we had family prayer, a few more giggling bouts, and then they were all out.... including papa. They are all so cute and precious. We are so blessed in our family. Before long the three younger ones will be big enough to join the silly trips to Mem and Papa's house. Maybe we do need a bigger house again...... :D
Thursday, January 6, 2011
Getting to the Heart of the Matter
As a coach you often ponder "what else can I do" when you hit past the mid-mark of the season... and it doesn't really matter if they're number one or bottom of the list... freshmen or varsity. Yes, you keep pounding the same fundamentals and adding a new play or defense here and there, but it's more than that. It's the mind game. Neglect development of the mind game along with the physical game and a team won't reach its full potential. So... I got out the red marker and we had the "play with heart" and "leave your guts on the floor talk" before the game last night and drew red hearts on our hands as a visual reminder of both unity and intent to do it. (some of you former players will remember this talk) :D I also talked about loving the game and the opportunity to play for the crowd, their parents, and their team. Why be nervous or stressed so much you can't even enjoy the moment of being on the hardwood. In the end... it really is just a game. A game I love, but not if you don't soak in the moments.
I made them a music CD and made them circle the whole floor (like the "big girls") when they went out there and to focus on loving the game and the moment. I also talked to them about game face. Look the other girl in the eye. Let your face say "bring it" without saying a word. Let your defense say "bring it". Well.... they did it! They brought their A-game. We won AND you could tell they "loved" the game by the way they were playing and talking both on the floor and on the bench. It was so exciting. I can't even explain it. Some girls that barely see the floor, played out of their head (and saw more playing time for it) and my guards were making passes that I didn't even know where they came from. They still had a few freshmen moments, but they ended the game with a stall that finally looked like it's supposed to and it was a thing of beauty. Now, if you're not into basketball, you're probably thinking.... it's just a game. True. But when they play like that and have fun like that... it becomes more... it becomes a high school memory that they keep and it becomes a bright spot in their life for this week and it becomes a life lesson. I also took my own advice and remembered to love the game and the players. Now if we can just knock off that number one team and take their spot.... Of course, there are a lot of other teams we have to play again so we can't get stuck on the fact that there's only one team we haven't beat. If we do that, we could get beat by a lesser team. The mind thing again. I call it "big head syndrome" a.k.a. "a little too proud". So yeah.... it was a good game/time last night and I'm proud of the girls.
I made them a music CD and made them circle the whole floor (like the "big girls") when they went out there and to focus on loving the game and the moment. I also talked to them about game face. Look the other girl in the eye. Let your face say "bring it" without saying a word. Let your defense say "bring it". Well.... they did it! They brought their A-game. We won AND you could tell they "loved" the game by the way they were playing and talking both on the floor and on the bench. It was so exciting. I can't even explain it. Some girls that barely see the floor, played out of their head (and saw more playing time for it) and my guards were making passes that I didn't even know where they came from. They still had a few freshmen moments, but they ended the game with a stall that finally looked like it's supposed to and it was a thing of beauty. Now, if you're not into basketball, you're probably thinking.... it's just a game. True. But when they play like that and have fun like that... it becomes more... it becomes a high school memory that they keep and it becomes a bright spot in their life for this week and it becomes a life lesson. I also took my own advice and remembered to love the game and the players. Now if we can just knock off that number one team and take their spot.... Of course, there are a lot of other teams we have to play again so we can't get stuck on the fact that there's only one team we haven't beat. If we do that, we could get beat by a lesser team. The mind thing again. I call it "big head syndrome" a.k.a. "a little too proud". So yeah.... it was a good game/time last night and I'm proud of the girls.
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
I'm sick
I can't remember the last time my throat her so bad and the only time my voice has been this bad is a week before state basketball, but even then it'd come and go throughout the day. It doesn't come at all-- just goes. I'm gargling wth saltwater and drinking warm lemon honey water (which the husband makes for me), but I might have to break down and go to the doctor today.
The first day back at school wasn't too bad. The kids are dealing with the loss of Coach Riley about how we expected. It's still fresh to them at just a couple weeks out and there are some tender hearts. I was very impressed with how well his youngest son is handling it. He was a comfort to others in class by his demeanor and attitude. In speech they gave impromptus about New Year's resolutions and goals and several of the wrestlers stood up and spoke about their desire to do well and make it to state for Coach Riley. His youngest son was in that class, so it was nice that he could see and hear that support from others.
Other than that, the kids were about normal coming off the break-- some past ready to be back and some squirrely. I didn't have a voice so that made some things a little harder but with the DWA this week and finals next week, not much of a voice will be required. I just have to get it up and going for the new semester though.
Our Monday game against the number one freshmen team was.... odd. We had moments of brilliance and the other coach was shocked that we were staying with them and moments of random "what are we doing" that killed us. My number one scorer who has been averaging 16 points a game.... had zero... and it wasn't because they were dogging her... they weren't. She just had her worst game of the season. Nice. Still, knowing that she had her worst game and we played them so well makes me confident that we can beat them. They respect us now and other people did step up who have been struggling throughout the season so I have to be grateful for that. We have one practice then play the #2 team (we're number three) tomorrow so we have to adjust and move on. Such is life.
Enjoyed having Jason and Anne over for dinner Sunday. Left the lights up one last weekend so Maddi could see them. She is jabbering up a storm now. She was very happy to see her papa too. Also appreciated Jeremy's family coming out to the game last night. They're a built-in fan club. Can't wait till Daisha is old enough to play! :D Well I'm off to work. If anyone knows of any organic remedies for congestion, pass them this way.
The first day back at school wasn't too bad. The kids are dealing with the loss of Coach Riley about how we expected. It's still fresh to them at just a couple weeks out and there are some tender hearts. I was very impressed with how well his youngest son is handling it. He was a comfort to others in class by his demeanor and attitude. In speech they gave impromptus about New Year's resolutions and goals and several of the wrestlers stood up and spoke about their desire to do well and make it to state for Coach Riley. His youngest son was in that class, so it was nice that he could see and hear that support from others.
Other than that, the kids were about normal coming off the break-- some past ready to be back and some squirrely. I didn't have a voice so that made some things a little harder but with the DWA this week and finals next week, not much of a voice will be required. I just have to get it up and going for the new semester though.
Our Monday game against the number one freshmen team was.... odd. We had moments of brilliance and the other coach was shocked that we were staying with them and moments of random "what are we doing" that killed us. My number one scorer who has been averaging 16 points a game.... had zero... and it wasn't because they were dogging her... they weren't. She just had her worst game of the season. Nice. Still, knowing that she had her worst game and we played them so well makes me confident that we can beat them. They respect us now and other people did step up who have been struggling throughout the season so I have to be grateful for that. We have one practice then play the #2 team (we're number three) tomorrow so we have to adjust and move on. Such is life.
Enjoyed having Jason and Anne over for dinner Sunday. Left the lights up one last weekend so Maddi could see them. She is jabbering up a storm now. She was very happy to see her papa too. Also appreciated Jeremy's family coming out to the game last night. They're a built-in fan club. Can't wait till Daisha is old enough to play! :D Well I'm off to work. If anyone knows of any organic remedies for congestion, pass them this way.
Saturday, January 1, 2011
Taking Care of Ourself
Last year I set a goal to eat healthier and to educate myself on the food I was putting into my mouth. I did that and I learned SO much and lost weight in the process as a bonus. It did change how I eat and what I eat. While I still have my sweets and I did gain back a few of the pounds I lost, I am happy with maintaining the 20 pounds instead of the 25 and I'm confident that last five will go off again after the holidays and after the weather warms back up so I can get out more. I know... excuses. Nevertheless, I want to share the things that stuck and are still with me one year later. Oh, and my recent blood work at school showed that the healthy eating paid off with my cholesterol and BP in great shape.
1) 50 Crunches at night laying down in bed
2) Only eat red meat 2-3 times a week
3) eat fish and almonds at least once a week
4) eat fruit and a green veggie every day
5) drink lots of water
6) check the calories and sodium on things you eat
7) still eating brown rice instead of white
8) Night munchies-- popcorn (100 calorie minipounch) and hot chocolate (80 cal. kind)
9) Try to have water instead of juices or pops with meals (holidays affected this a little, but the rest of the time I've been really good)
10) half a sandwich or one piece of toast
11) lite mayo or lite cool-whip tastes the same (lite sour cream does not)
12) Get your fiber (25 g) in every day
13) Tell people you're watching what you eat so you feel accountable
14) when you go through a drive-through ask how many calories are in whatever you order (yep, still doing that most of the time)
15) never drink anything that's over 70 degrees
Well the first day of the new year is almost over. Last year was the first time I set a really big goal. I am proud of myself for seeing it through. I have a new goal this year-- to get out my life list of my dreams and set some dates for them instead of just thinking I'll do them some day. Life is just too unpredictable to put them off... especially when you're almost 50.
So.... in hopes that I will do as well with this New Year's resolution, I am sharing my dreams and goals for this upcoming year in hopes it will help me stick to them. Once again, I will call on my friends and family to push me. You did such a great job with my healthier eating (I really mean that and I could not have done it all alone) that I am hoping you'll keep me on track for this new year. These are not new goals or dreams and they are all doable, but I just keep pushing them back. Time to stop that.
1) finish writing one of the books I've started and submit it
2) go to another country (Italy or Rome preferably)
3) get an administrative job
4) my red barn
While these are my goals and dreams for this year, they are not all that will or does make my life complete. I know we will welcome new grandbabies and watch existing ones continue to grow up. I know our children will continue to prosper and grow and in their own lives and I know my life will be changed and enriched by the students I teach and have taught and the athletes I coach and have coached.
I encourage each of you to share your New Year's resolutions and goals as well. It really makes a difference. Happy New Year!
P.S. Whit.... thank you.
1) 50 Crunches at night laying down in bed
2) Only eat red meat 2-3 times a week
3) eat fish and almonds at least once a week
4) eat fruit and a green veggie every day
5) drink lots of water
6) check the calories and sodium on things you eat
7) still eating brown rice instead of white
8) Night munchies-- popcorn (100 calorie minipounch) and hot chocolate (80 cal. kind)
9) Try to have water instead of juices or pops with meals (holidays affected this a little, but the rest of the time I've been really good)
10) half a sandwich or one piece of toast
11) lite mayo or lite cool-whip tastes the same (lite sour cream does not)
12) Get your fiber (25 g) in every day
13) Tell people you're watching what you eat so you feel accountable
14) when you go through a drive-through ask how many calories are in whatever you order (yep, still doing that most of the time)
15) never drink anything that's over 70 degrees
Well the first day of the new year is almost over. Last year was the first time I set a really big goal. I am proud of myself for seeing it through. I have a new goal this year-- to get out my life list of my dreams and set some dates for them instead of just thinking I'll do them some day. Life is just too unpredictable to put them off... especially when you're almost 50.
So.... in hopes that I will do as well with this New Year's resolution, I am sharing my dreams and goals for this upcoming year in hopes it will help me stick to them. Once again, I will call on my friends and family to push me. You did such a great job with my healthier eating (I really mean that and I could not have done it all alone) that I am hoping you'll keep me on track for this new year. These are not new goals or dreams and they are all doable, but I just keep pushing them back. Time to stop that.
1) finish writing one of the books I've started and submit it
2) go to another country (Italy or Rome preferably)
3) get an administrative job
4) my red barn
While these are my goals and dreams for this year, they are not all that will or does make my life complete. I know we will welcome new grandbabies and watch existing ones continue to grow up. I know our children will continue to prosper and grow and in their own lives and I know my life will be changed and enriched by the students I teach and have taught and the athletes I coach and have coached.
I encourage each of you to share your New Year's resolutions and goals as well. It really makes a difference. Happy New Year!
P.S. Whit.... thank you.
A New Year- A New Chapter
Someone made the comment that "It's just another day like any other day." Not true. Many people use the start of a new year to set goals, to reflect on the past year, and to evaluate needed changes or past successes. Thank goodness we have a day that invites and encourages that opportunity. I know I certainly need it in my life.
I started the New Year like most people my age.... just being thankful to make it to midnight... quite an accomplishment any more (unless I'm grading papers). Tammy and I whooped up on the boys in pinochle. Ate too much food, but at least the choices weren't totally unhealthy (except Greg's chocolate chip cookies). I made clam chowder. Speaking of that.... we had THE BEST clam chowder we've ever eaten at Angel's in Boise this past week. New favorite place to eat. Nice place. Great service and atmosphere. Very surprised by the good prices as well. And the dessert we had... .YUM! It looked like a round scoop of chocolate. It was some kind of brownie and it melted in our mouth. Also our new favorite dessert.
Back to munchies yesterday. Made the cream cheese pickle spears wrapped in thin sliced turkey pastrami. Went easy on the cream cheese so it wouldn't be very fattening. Made some wassle to drink. Tasted good and kept us warm. Rellie and I made pudding cups with lite cool-whip and sprinkles for Jeremy's kids, but they ended up not coming over. I think they're coming today. Greg also made bottom of the bird cage. Refried beans (good fiber), avocado (good fat), sour cream (sour), and pre-shredded cheese. Scooped that with the tortilla chips (corn). So yeah, ate more than normal for that time of night, but the choices weren't totally junk. :D
Started the year off with Rellie sleeping on my head. Got up at 6 when my head was ready to fall off the side because he was hanging on for dear life (never mind that he had the rest of the king size bed to roam in :D). It all worked out though because then my brother called from Afghanistan to say Happy New Year. Got to visit a while and it was really nice to talk to him. He hasn't smoked for three weeks and is working out on his off duty hours. They have a place set up on the base there so they can do that. He said last time (Iraq) he was chainsmoking like crazy about this time and he didn't want to make that same mistake. He also has a roommate who doesn't smoke so that helps too. My dad is also trying to quit. I'm cheering and praying for all of them. See.... it's not just another day. We make it more (just like any other holiday).
Two more days of vacation left.... then back to work. We have to play the number one team our first day back too. I hate Monday games. Who schedules Monday games. The girls had a great practice yesterday though and have improved so much. We scrimmaged the sophomores Friday and they complained that my girls were too aggressive so I was very proud. We have gone from being too quiet and timid to..... we're too aggressive. That's a good problem. Now if we can just get the ball to go in the hoop. If a team shoots the ball 62 times in a game.... we should be killing teams, not just winning. Of course come Monday, I'd just be happy if we got the win. The team we're playing is undefeated and very good. It'll be a good assessment of where we're at.
So the girls have the weekend off so we can all enjoy our last weekend of Christmas break. Monday is back to school/work. Right now though.... I hear Rellie waking up. That means it's time to cook breakfast and start off the new year. My prayers are with those who start this year with heavy hearts and those who have big dreams and those who are just thankful for what they have and where they are. Every new day is a gift.... that is why it's called "the present" (stolen from Kung Fu Panda). Treasure each day accordingly.
I started the New Year like most people my age.... just being thankful to make it to midnight... quite an accomplishment any more (unless I'm grading papers). Tammy and I whooped up on the boys in pinochle. Ate too much food, but at least the choices weren't totally unhealthy (except Greg's chocolate chip cookies). I made clam chowder. Speaking of that.... we had THE BEST clam chowder we've ever eaten at Angel's in Boise this past week. New favorite place to eat. Nice place. Great service and atmosphere. Very surprised by the good prices as well. And the dessert we had... .YUM! It looked like a round scoop of chocolate. It was some kind of brownie and it melted in our mouth. Also our new favorite dessert.
Back to munchies yesterday. Made the cream cheese pickle spears wrapped in thin sliced turkey pastrami. Went easy on the cream cheese so it wouldn't be very fattening. Made some wassle to drink. Tasted good and kept us warm. Rellie and I made pudding cups with lite cool-whip and sprinkles for Jeremy's kids, but they ended up not coming over. I think they're coming today. Greg also made bottom of the bird cage. Refried beans (good fiber), avocado (good fat), sour cream (sour), and pre-shredded cheese. Scooped that with the tortilla chips (corn). So yeah, ate more than normal for that time of night, but the choices weren't totally junk. :D
Started the year off with Rellie sleeping on my head. Got up at 6 when my head was ready to fall off the side because he was hanging on for dear life (never mind that he had the rest of the king size bed to roam in :D). It all worked out though because then my brother called from Afghanistan to say Happy New Year. Got to visit a while and it was really nice to talk to him. He hasn't smoked for three weeks and is working out on his off duty hours. They have a place set up on the base there so they can do that. He said last time (Iraq) he was chainsmoking like crazy about this time and he didn't want to make that same mistake. He also has a roommate who doesn't smoke so that helps too. My dad is also trying to quit. I'm cheering and praying for all of them. See.... it's not just another day. We make it more (just like any other holiday).
Two more days of vacation left.... then back to work. We have to play the number one team our first day back too. I hate Monday games. Who schedules Monday games. The girls had a great practice yesterday though and have improved so much. We scrimmaged the sophomores Friday and they complained that my girls were too aggressive so I was very proud. We have gone from being too quiet and timid to..... we're too aggressive. That's a good problem. Now if we can just get the ball to go in the hoop. If a team shoots the ball 62 times in a game.... we should be killing teams, not just winning. Of course come Monday, I'd just be happy if we got the win. The team we're playing is undefeated and very good. It'll be a good assessment of where we're at.
So the girls have the weekend off so we can all enjoy our last weekend of Christmas break. Monday is back to school/work. Right now though.... I hear Rellie waking up. That means it's time to cook breakfast and start off the new year. My prayers are with those who start this year with heavy hearts and those who have big dreams and those who are just thankful for what they have and where they are. Every new day is a gift.... that is why it's called "the present" (stolen from Kung Fu Panda). Treasure each day accordingly.
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