saga...

(alternate title: why I need a boyfriend)

So, lying in bed reading last night, I glance up at the ceiling and notice a HUGE spider lurking up there. No biggie, right? Then it starts spinning a web and drops down and hustles back up the strand. The heebie-jeebies hit. I start a mini-freak out.

I get up and get a broom and take a whack at it... lurking and staring at me. But instead of killing it, I knocked it down and then I couldn't find it, until I look on a shopping bag that is storing some socks and against the white, I see the unfurled legs. OhNo! Spidey is not disabled. I took another swat at it and see Spidey scuttle along the floor. I figure everything's ok and resume reading.

But after about ten minutes--Spidey is again lurking and glaring at me from the ceiling. This time I call a truce. I tried to take a photo but my batteries ran out and every time I tried to zoom in, it just looked like a dime on the ceiling. So I turned the light off and decided to sleep with one eye open. My one eye against Spidey's bajillion eyes.

I had freaky dreams.

But when I awoke and looked around, Spidey was in the same place as last night. Spiders sleep? Anyhoodle, I kept staring at Spidey and Spidey kept staring back. Finally, I got out of bed and did my thing. Later in the afternoon, I checked again and Spidey was still in position. I decided to try the broom again. This time, I smooshed the boom into Spidey and ground it a bit. Spidey tumbled to the window still but I kept smacking and grinding with the broom until I saw a trail of legs and a smoosh mark.

Honestly, I'm feeling upset about the whole thing. It's weird to have any feelings about a spider. But I killed a spider. I know, I know... it's a spider. Part of it is because I had to take care of it myself. This is when a boyfriend/husband would come in handy. They usually don't mind killing stuff.

gah. What if this is as good as it gets?

sounds like...

The Legendary Soundman Behind Hollywood's Most Famous Noises

If you've seen Star Wars, Indiana Jones, or Wall-E, then you know the work of Hollywood's most legendary sound designer, Ben Burtt.

After taking his first (uncredited) job on the original Death Race 2000 in 1975, Burtt would go on to turn movie sound into an art. By capturing and manipulating ambient and mechanical noises, he created entirely new aural worlds. Here are a few of his trademark sounds.

R2D2's Voice: Most movie fans think that the robot's voice is an elaborate creation of computer synthesizers, but it's actually a combination of Burtt whistling and making fart noises into an old tape recorder.

The Clicks of Wall-E's Cockroach Pet: After experimenting with various synthesized animal noises, Burtt settled on accelerating the chatter of an irritated raccoon.

The Star Wars Lightsaber: The hum and the clash of the lightsaber came from two malfunctioning devices - a broken television set tuned between two VHF channels and an idling film projector.


Chewbacca's Voice: Although the fictional wookie looks all ape, his voice is based on the barks and grunts of dogs, mixed with the growls of lions and bears.


Star Wars' T.I.E. Fighter: The roar of the evil Empire's fighters (the name stands for Twin Ion Engine) is actually the roar of an elephant. To add some length to the sound, Burtt layered in the buzz of his car driving on a wet road.

Indiana Jones' Whip: The crack of Dr. Jones' whip is just that - the sound of Indiana Jones cracking his whip. During the making of Raiders of the Lost Ark, Burtt recorded Harrison Ford snapping the whip along a rural road in Marin County, California. To add a little more whoosh, Burtt dropped in the sound of a Harrier Jump Jet that flew by.

from Neatorama.

ten things tuesday

Ten email tags I've enjoyed and collected from friends:

1) Life's precious moments don't have value, unless they are shared.

2) If you don't start, it's certain you won't arrive.

3) We often fear the thing we want the most.

4) He or she who laughs......lasts.

5) Yesterday was the deadline for all complaints.

6) Look for opportunities...not guarantees.

7) Life is what's coming....not what was.

8) Success is getting up one more time.

9) Now is the most interesting time of all.

10) When things go wrong.....don't go with them

hangin' with my homey...

Had a nice lunch with my bestie. The only shocker was the meal--Ruby Tuesd*y's Carolina Chicken Salad has 26 points. Then we went book shopping and hung out at the mall. Next was a "quick" errand at WalM*rt which turned into forty-five minutes of investigating the kitchen section and beauty products. Non-stop talking and catching up on weeks of life and stuff. And complaining about the weather--we're both so glad that Junetober is done. Maybe we'll be lucky with July.

I knew I would have an understanding ear when I talked about my wedding reaction from Saturday. She totally understood how angsty I felt about everything.

just another manic monday

# 174

What is the longest love relationship (partner) you have had, and if it has ended, why? it ended because I realized we wanted/needed/expected different things from the relationship

What is on your bedside table? books and a lamp

How many pillows do you have on your bed? Do you make your bed every day? two, and yes, I straighten it up

if only i'd known...

Inaugural Whoopie Pie Festival a sweet success
By Diana Bowley
BDN Staff

DOVER-FOXCROFT, Maine — Creamy white frosting covered some of their chins Saturday and their fingers were coated with chocolate, but the mess didn’t bother participants of the inaugural Whoopie Pie Festival.

The weekend event sponsored by Center Theater was declared a sweet and creamy success. A baker’s dozen of cooks shared their favorite pies — featuring just about every possible combination of creamy filling smooshed between two round cakes — with about 500 people.

“I’m thrilled!” Patrick Myers, the festival’s organizer, said Saturday. The weather cooperated, cooks from throughout the state entered their whoopie pies for the judging and hundreds of people turned out, he said. He figured the state needed to celebrate the Maine whoopie pie, a sweet-cake that can be found on counters in nearly every bakery, as well as grocery and convenience stores.

It has been such a Maine staple that Amos Orcutt, president and chief executive officer of the University of Maine Foundation, one of Saturday’s judges, is working to make the delectable sweet-cake the state’s official dessert.

On Saturday, there were cakes and fillings that incorporated molasses, pumpkin, blueberries, coffee brandy, chocolate chips, Chambord (raspberry liqueur), espresso coffee, rum, and cointreau and fresh orange zest.

The bakers who submitted the sweet tooth’s delights included Carol Ford and Karen Haase of Cranberry Island Kitchen of Cumberland, who have been featured on the Martha Stewart Show; Donna Carrigan of Walpole and Lana Webb of Buck’s Harbor with their Wezeola’s Wackie Whoopies; Betty Reez of WoopieZ, Freeport’s Gourmet Whoopie; Stutzman Farms of Sangerville; Heather Fowler of Heather’s Whoopie Pies of Lamoine; and Governor’s Restaurant.

The first-place winners were: Most Original Whoopie Pie, Betty Reez for her Needham Whoopie Pie; Best Flavored, Sandee Washburn of Dover-Foxcroft; and Best Traditional Whoopie Pie, the Piscataquis Times.

The winner of the People’s Choice award was Governor’s Restaurant of Old Town.

Carrigan, whose day job is designing kitchens, said she loves making whoopie pies. She said she prepared 128 whoopie pies for the event and those pies were parceled out in small pieces for visitors to taste.

“I just thought this would be a fun thing to do,” she said.

Reez said it was fun to watch people take their first bite and to see their facial reaction.

That reaction for Polly Carey was a wide smile.

“The people are so very friendly, and of course, the whoopie pies are excellent,” the Bangor woman said.

Carey and her daughter, Diane Carey Stanchfield, said they saw a BDN article about the event and decided to attend the festival. They both sought out Myers and told them how pleased they were to be part of the festival.

The festival also offered games for children sponsored by the Piscataquis Regional YMCA and a barbecue sponsored by the Shiretown Homecoming Committee.

Dover-Foxcroft Town Manager Jack Clukey, who helped to man the latter booth, said Saturday there was quite a run on milk and drinks to help wash down the pies.

Myers said he is already thinking ahead to next year’s festival that will be held June 26, 2010.

“We’ll be making some changes and adding a lot to it for next year,” he said. “Personally, I want to see the World’s Largest Whoopie Pie made right here in Piscataquis County.”

The proceeds from the festival will help the Center Theatre’s endowment campaign. The theater has a goal of raising $25,000 this year to qualify for a $25,000 match from the Maine Community Foundation.

the jungle test

You Are Imaginative

You are a creative, innovative person. You're not afraid of great risks. Right now, you are seeking a new challenge and a complete life change. You are drawn to people who are energetic and blissful. You feel like there are a few minor things in your life that need to be changed. You make a lot of course corrections in your life. Your first reaction is usually not your final verdict.

The Jungle Test

RIP: Billy Mays

sunday stealing

Sunday Stealing: The ABC Meme

A – An advantage you have – intelligence

B – Blue or brown eyes – green

C – Chore you hate – all of them

D – Dad’s name – Dad or Daddy, if we're being silly

E – Essential start of your day – coffee

F – Favorite color – beige

G – Greatest thing you’ve ever done that made you feel really good – uhm...hmmm...organized/planned/hosted events at school

H – Habit you have – blogging

I – Issue you hate that the world tries to make you pursue – weight loss

J – Job title – edumacator

K – Kohls or Target – Target

L – Living arrangements – lovely, cluttered apartment

M – Music you like – everything but gangsta

N - Nicknames – Kwizgiver, Sunshine

O – Overnight hospital stay – what if this is as good as it gets?: a bit of explanation...

P – Pet Peeve – I have many

Q – Quote that you like most – “I still find each day too short for all the thoughts I want to think, all the walks I want to take, all the books I want to read, and all the friends I want to see.” John Burroughs

R – Right or left handed – right

S – Siblings – 3 older sisters

T – Time you wake up –. now that I'm vacationing: whenever

U – Underwear – yes

V – Vegetable you dislike – brussel sprouts

W – What makes you run late – inability to get out of my own way

X – X-rays you’ve had – numerous

Y – Yummy food you make – peanut clusters

Z – Zoo animal – giraffe

i say... and you think...?

1. Guest :: sisters
2. Impact :: Dad
3. Unplanned :: unintended
4. Tactic :: underhanded
5. Delayed :: late
6. Bombastic :: Kirsten
7. Comfort :: home
8. Trumpet :: Adam
9. Joe :: Schmoe
10. Budget :: negotiations

#335

postsecret

PostSecret is an ongoing community art project where people mail in their secrets anonymously on one side of a homemade postcard. Every week I like to post one that speaks to me.

competition?

He does scruffy well.

very well.

And unscruffy.

Watch out, George!

new in town

And the trailer is about all ya really need to see. Except Harry Connick, Jr, is a hunk of a man.



Predictable. And what's with Renee's hair? eww

goin' to the chapel...

It was refreshing to go to my friend Angela's wedding today. She is so down to earth and low key, the whole wedding was exactly like that. A flower girl but no attendants other than her. Angela looked spectacular in her gown and her bouquet was a lovely arrangement of wildflowers (no, that's not it in the picture) and garden and wildflowers decorated the whole church and reception. Walking in you could feel the love. That was the vibe of the whole day. Love was in the air. The music was beautiful, too, the bride's cousin played and sang a lovely song that I hadn't heard before, I'll have to remember to get the name from Ang. And their first kiss was cute--Nick dipped her and planted a huge one on her. Very much their personalities.

Typical of Ang, she and Nick talked to each other through the whole ceremony--I don't think they heard any of the music or the verses that were read, they were definitely in their own world. I'm so happy for them.

After greeting them both, and Angela's parents, I went in to the reception. But I left after a couple minutes. I think I felt sorry for myself for being there by myself and having such an overwhelming feeling of love everywhere. I didn't know anyone and tried introducing myself to a few people. But I felt uncomfortable so I just decided to leave.

saturday 9

I Want You Back

1. Where were you when you heard that Michael Jackson died? I was tweeting about Farrah Fawcett

2. How do you think that he will be remembered? as a musical genius

3. What was your favorite Jackson tune? hmmm... I had a least favorite: Billie Jean

4. Did you watch the original Charlie’s Angels? heckya

5. Did someone you know have that poster of Farrah? I'm sure some of my guy friends did but we never talked about it

6. Did you consider her battle with cancer heroic? yes, she had a lot of dignity and shared a lot of information

7. Were you a fan of The Tonight Show Starring Johnnie Carson? when I finally was old enough to watch it, yes

8. Did you like Ed McMahon on the show? I didn't really get his purpose until after the show was done... now when I see sketches, yes, I think he was hilarious

9. What else will you remember McMahon for? bloopers shows

RIP
In Memory of Michael Jackson, Farrah Fawcett and Ed McMahon

friday fill-in

# 130


1. She had a great style.

2. Love is by my side, always.

3. I know this: I will never run out of toilet paper.

4. Sitting still.

5. These words apply to me: big, beautiful woman.

6. Yesterday the sun was shining.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to nothing particular, tomorrow my plans include my lunch buddy's wedding and Sunday, I want to have an adventure!

today...

Today the sun was back. It's been days and days since we've seen it. It was warm and humid. But the sun was out!! Then came the thunder. But the sun was out!!

rip

So sad to hear that the beloved Farrah Fawcett lost her battle with cancer today. And Michael Jackson has also passed away. Two icons in one day. Very sad.

just finished watching...

I laughed, I cried.

thursday bug

Sometimes it helps to share with others what bugs your mind.

They may have a solution, a kind word, or a smile of encouragement.

This week my thursday bug is:

Humidity.

O, Humidity
Sitting still and bathed in sweat
How you spoil my day.

hdtv

I finally get it. Watching a re-run of Top Chef, I finally understand what HDTV does. I expected the aromas to waft through my apartment. mmmmmmm. I haven't noticed on the rest of the shows I watch, probably because I don't really watch all that closely.

instant ice cream...

Make Instant Ice Cream!!! - The most popular videos are here

swiped meme

found at: Driven to Distraction

I can't...
*do push ups
*come up with a new bucket list
*just observe an event, I have to be part of it somehow
*understand the appeal of gangsta rap
*shave my legs without nicking myself--ouch!

but I can...
*listen and remember what's being said
*fold fitted sheets practically flat
*entertain myself
*bake a killer apple pie
*give great hugs

I won't...
*compromise my standards
*stop eating my favorite foods
*have children of my own
*leave the house without directions
*give up my guilty pleasures

but I will...
*read more
*give second chances more freely
*keep doing the work
*buy presents for no reason
*get pedicures monthly until shoe time

I shouldn't...
* be so hard on myself
* obsess about things that aren't actually real
* curse
* procrastinate
* worry about things that are in the future

and I should...
* remember gratitude
* unclutter more often
* save more money
* exercise
* stay present in the moment

What about you?

just finished reading...

Another great Jodi Picoult novel exploring the bonds and boundaries of a family in crisis. The points of view shifted nicely and the characters' voices rang true. I learned a lot about OI--osteogenesis imperfecta, which is at the center of this novel.

what is your evil name?

Your Evil Name Is Magena Isadora

Muhahahaha!

What's Your Evil Name?

ten things tuesday...

Ten CDs that are closest to me:

1) Michael Bublé: It's Time

2) The Commitments: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack

3) Ray Charles: Genius Loves Company

4) U2: the B-Sides

5) Shawn Colvin: A Few Small Repairs

6) Luka Bloom: Keeper of the Flame

7) Ricky Martin: Sound Loaded

8) Paul Simon: The Rhythm of the Saints

9) Billy Joel: Storm Front

10) Dave Matthews Band: Crash

things I didn't know I needed...

Follow in his footsteps. Take the plunge with a soak in everlasting Citrus and Juniper suds that make you feel like you're walking on water.

To look your Sunday best!

Lookin' Good For Jesus: there's more!

i wanna...

epic fail

Don't ya hate when your doctor has offices in two towns and after driving an hour to get to the appointment it was in the other town?

just another manic monday

# 173

Do you usually wear perfume/cologne? If so, what's your current favorite? current fave is rain kissed leaves by Bath & Bodyworks

What's the last book you've read that you thought was really good? If you don't have one, what looks promising on your to-be-read list? Jodi Picoult's Handle With Care

Fill in the blank: I wouldn't be caught dead _________. in a bikini

Student Denied Diploma After Blowing Kiss

STANDISH, Maine -- Justin Denney's family watched as he ascended the Cumberland County Civic Center stage during graduation Friday night to accept his diploma, but the superintendent told him to return to his seat.

The Bonny Eagle High School senior's mother said she can't believe her son's taking a bow and blowing a kiss on stage led was grounds for the superintendent to withhold his diploma.

Mary Denney wants an apology, and her son wants his diploma, reported WMTW-TV in Portland, Maine.

"I'm like, 'Did she not hand him his diploma?' I'm like, 'What's going on?'" Mary Denney said.

She said she and Justin both signed a code of conduct regarding the graduation when she picked up graduation tickets on Friday, but she doesn't think he violated it.

"There was no misbehavior. Showboating is not misbehavior," Mary Denney said. "A bow, a kiss to your mom is not misbehavior. There was no need of my son not getting his diploma."

WMTW tried to contact the district's superintendent and the school's principal, but neither returned the calls by Monday evening.

Before the school began handing out diplomas, some students pulled out beach balls. One student was forced to sit away from his classmates with staff while police escorted another student behind the stage.

"No arrests were made," Cumberland County Sheriff's Department Deputy Chief Kevin Joyce said. "The individual that was escorted off the stage was asked to leave the civic center. He was to the point where the deputy was starting to get to the point where he wanted to arrest the individual, but gave him several opportunities to settle down. Eventually, he took off his cap and gown and threw it at the deputy and walked out the civic center."

The deputy returned to the crowd and took another beach ball away from the students, but Mary Denney said School Area District 6 Superintendent Suzanne Lukas was still upset.

"When she got up there and started speaking, they threw out a couple more balls and she turned around and said, 'More people may not be graduating today if this continues,'" Mary Denney said.

While in his seat or waiting in line for his diploma, Justin Denney never touched a beach ball, his mother said. After his name was called, he took a bow, blew a kiss to his family and pointed to friends, but he didn't get his diploma, leaving a whole family in disbelief.

"I said, 'What did she ask you?' And, he goes, 'She said, 'There's no fooling around up here,' and he just kind of looked at her because he wasn't fooling around," Mary Denney said. "He didn't consider that fooling around or misbehaving in any sense of the word, and she goes, 'Why do you feel you deserve your diploma?' He goes, 'Because I worked hard and I earned it,' and she goes, 'No, go take your seat.'"

The crowd booed, but Justin Denney still doesn't have his diploma. Now, his mother wants her son to get what he's worked so hard for.

"It was appalling, and I want justice for my son. I want her to apologize to my son and I want her to hand him his diploma while he is in his cap and gown," Mary Denney said.

Both of Justin Denney's grandparents are ill and one of their wishes was to see their grandson graduate from high school, Mary Denney said.

Mary Denney said she is planning a graduation party for her son in two weeks, which, by then, she said she hopes she will have a photograph of her son with his diploma.

made me laugh...

summer...

You'd never know it's solstice by our weather. It's windy, cold and damp. bah!

sunday stealing

Sunday Stealing: The Finish the Sentence Meme

1. I've come to realize that my last kiss... was the best part of the relationship

2. I am listening to... the t.v.

3. I talk... a lot

4. I love... life

5. My best friend/s... is my support system

6. My first real kiss... was with my next door neighbor, we were five

7. Love is... a many splendid thing

8. Marriage is... for everyone

9. Somewhere, someone is thinking... about me

10. I'll always... have great memories of traveling

11. The last time I really cried was because... ...actually, I can't remember

12. My cell phone... is for emergencies

13. When I wake up in the morning... I organize the day

14. Before I go to bed... meditate

15. Right now I am thinking about... my toes--yesterday's pedicure was awesome

16. Babies are... beautiful

17. I get on Myspace... daily

18. Today I... am honoring my dad

19. Tomorrow I will be... enjoying vacation

20. I really want to be... happy... and I am

i say... and you think...?

1. Divorce :: separation
2. Napkin :: paper towel
3. Camera :: picture
4. Leather :: sandals
5. Fractures :: splinters
6. Flip out :: Ben & Jerry's new treat
7. Coroner :: Doctor Death
8. Atomic :: bomb
9. Liz :: Elizabeth
10. Leave :: go



#334

postsecret

I bet there are a lot of my dad's former students who feel this same way.

Happy Father's Day to the most wonderful father imaginable.

PostSecret is all about Dads.

true...

saturday 9

Never Say Never Again

1. Do you like James Bond films? If yes, what’s your favorite? they're all my favorite--and I LURVE James Bond films. Sheer escape-ism!!

2. Are you daring enough to go snorkeling in the water fountain at the mall? not so much

3. Do you sometimes hate everything and everyone around you? sometimes, yes

4. Do you secretly or openly believe the world revolves around you? well... I know my place in the world... ;-)

5. Would you rather buy a moped or a Harley Davidson? harley

6. Do you water ski or ice ski? never heard of ice skiing... I've tried water skiing and snow skiing and don't like either

7. Tell us about the last time that you tailgated. I don't

8. What was the last concert that you attended? school stuff

9. What’s the most exotic food that you’ve ate? oh, let's see: octopus, shark, ostrich, buffalo...

playcation day

mmmmm... napping on a rainy day. Downside--I can't sleep tonight so now I've got to sit up watching The Soup.

friday fill-in

#129

1. All children alarm their parents, if only because you are forever expecting the worst.

2. Show me a good loser and I will show you a good sport.

3. Hanging my head upside down is like eating an entire box of chocolate liqueurs at one time.

4. Too bad that all the people who know how to run the country are busy working and living.

5. I have yet to hear a man ask for advice on how to combine chores and asking for directions.

6. It is impossible to think of any good meal, no matter how plain or elegant, without good company or fresh ingredients in it.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to hanging around, tomorrow my plans include the Breakfast Club and a pedicure and Sunday, I want to enjoy summer vacation!

i can't resist...

half a day

thursday bug

Sometimes it helps to share with others what bugs your mind.

They may have a solution, a kind word, or a smile of encouragement.

This week my thursday bug is:

An unplanned assembly for the last day of school, tomorrow.

a long one...

boosted from Mrs. Chili:

A
Always: go to the bathroom when you have the chance.
Average: can be good enough.
Annoyance: I can't find packing boxes for my classroom.
Age: 43.

B
Best Friends: I keep them forever.
Beer: is ok on a hot day.
Birthday: is close to Halloween, I had some kickin' costume parties as a kid.
Boast: I am a great listener.

C
Crush: George.
Car: a car I bought online
Candy: mmmmmm=chocolate
Cry: I need a good one, soon.

D
Days: this last week of school drags.
Dream: I don't remember them, but I remember the colors.
Dare: I'm pretty daring.
Drug: they help stabilize my moods--and they're prescribed, I just re-read that and realized what it sounded like.

E
Easy: life isn't.
Eggs: great for breakfast.
Email: is wonderful. How did we ever get along without it? (keeping Mrs. Chili's answer)
Envy: can't say this is a problem for me.

F
Flavors: chocolate, hazlenut, coffee
Favorites: I have a billion Firefox favorites. Neatly tucked in folders.
Flaws: where to begin?
Finicky: there are times I am very finicky, usually it's OCD related.

G
Grateful: a moment each day for reflection and gratitude.
Gifts: I love giving gifts.
Gum: minty sugar free something or other.
Gross: oh, lawd, there's too great a list: body odor, rotten things, burned rubber...

H
Hair: strawberry blond, curly and in need of a shaping trim.
Height: I'm 5'5" and shrinking.
Happiest: there are moments, daily, that I am at my happiest.
Hate: I hate haters.

I
Ice Cream: oh save me. Been on a Ben & Jerry's kick lately.
Instrument: tambourine
Idols: it takes a lot to impress me.
Independence: I love my independence and strength.

J
Jewelry: funky chunky necklaces and earrings.
Jail: can't say I have any experiences.
Jenga used to be a favorite drinking game.
Jammies I'm in them now.

K
Kids: each year I have about a hundred.
Karaoke: I won a contest many years ago.
Kicks: I'm easily amused
Kiss: nothing beats a time-stopping kiss!

L
Longest: the longest day of the year is June 21
Life: is beautiful.
Lost: I’ve learned that getting lost can be a great adventure.

M
Milk: haven't had a glass in probably thirty years.
Miss: my students don't know the difference between Mrs. and Miss.
Movies: I've got a huge stack to get through.
Memory: some moments are crystal clear, others... are fading.

N
Nails: just self-manicured.
No: is something I'm getting better at saying.
Name: my students gave me the nickname Kwizgiver.
Never: say never.

O
Ordinary: how I'd describe my life.
One: by U2 is my favorite song.
Office: I still get nervous when I get called to the Principal's office.
Only: one and a half days until summer vacation.

P
Pet Peeves: the list is too long to start here.
Primal urge: laughter
Personality: is one of my best features
Pain: something I thought I had no tolerance for until I got tattoos.

Q
Quick: how I hope time passes until summer vacation.
Quirk: many are OCD related.
Qualms: hmmm... can't think of any.
Quest: I want to have some fun adventures this summer.

R
Reason to …: laugh.
Reality TV: is amusing.
Rage: makes me nervous.
Regret: I try to live without regrets, life is too short.

S
Song: nothing more fun than a summer song--right now it's The Man Who Can't Be Moved by The Script
Season: autumn is the best.
Shoes: I have a hard time buying shoes, I wish I could wear sandals or flip flops all year.
Silly: makes me laugh.

T
Time: living each moment--stay present!
Ticklish: more than being ticklish, I don't especially like being touched.
Taste: I could go for a taste of ice cream.
Torment: sometimes my thinking.

U
Undress: what is there to say?
Unpredictable: how I feel without meds.
Unfortunate: my youth.
Unforgettable: .

V
Vegetables: I need to eat more.
Virgin: muah hahahaha.
Vacation: I sure can't wait until it begins at noon on Friday.
Voice: I should sing more.

W
Worst Habit: procrastination.
Wish: that my summer class goes well.
Waste: I need to be more mindful of my footprint.
Wander: one of my favorite things to do.

X
X-Rated: doesn't interest me.
X-Rays: a very dear friend of mine is a tech.
X-Men:. a comic book made into movies?
X-marks the spot: with a circle and a dot.

Y
Year born: 1965
Yes: or yessssssss!
Yellow: is not a color I wear often.
Yearn: the story of my life.

Z
Zoo Animal: giraffe.
Zodiac: Scorpio.
Zealous: not so much.
Zzzz: naps... yessssssss

1 man band...

ten things tuesday...

Ten websites I visit daily:

1) Blogger. Obviously. And from here, I visit all the blogs in my sidebar.

2) Twitter. I'm addicted to blurbs.

3) Plurk. It's fun to post videos, photos or links easily.

4) Google. I'm forever looking something up.

5) MySpace. Keeping in touch with students and former students.

6) Facebook. Keeping in touch with friends and family. It's great to chat with my sisters.

7) AOL. For some reason I can't seem to give it up.

8) Gmail. My alternate account.

9) Yahoo Groups. I have been active in groups for almost ten years, I've made some wonderful friends.

10) TV Guide. Gotta know what's on.

I thought this would be a hard list but I've got a few more sites but will save them for another time.

counting down...

Three and a half days. Hopefully they won't drag. Every minute felt like ten, today.

just another manic monday...

# 172

What is the last song that was stuck in your head and how did you get rid of it? Hot & Cold by Katy Perry it drifted away on its own

If you had to say what one thing in your life best represents your freedom, what would it be? being self-sufficient

If you were invited to the White House for dinner tonight, what would you wear from your current wardrobe? brown and white dress with brown wedge sandals

what is your gift?

Your Gift is Sensitivity

You are easily moved, and you have a strong emotional reaction to almost everything. Your sensitivity helps you get a lot out of life. You appreciate every moment more. It's hard for you to divorce yourself from your feelings. You notice every little thing around you. You're the type of person who finds empathy and compassion easy.

What's Your Gift?

just watched...

Story line was not great but the action was. Liam Neeson action hero!

postsecret

PostSecret is an ongoing community art project where people mail in their secrets anonymously on one side of a homemade postcard. Every week I like to post one that speaks to me.

i say... and you think...?

1. Nudity :: thanks anyhow
2. Domestic :: cozy
3. Burp :: excuse me
4. Baby :: love
5. Dateline :: time line
6. Retract :: take back
7. Suppose :: conclude
8. Surreal :: fantastical
9. Infidelity :: untrue, dishonest
10. Token :: piece


#333

sunday stealing

Sunday Stealing: The Blue Rene Meme

1. What thing is nearest to you ? well, my laptop is on my lap

2. What is your ringtone ? default

3. What was the last message in your inbox ? I don't have an inbox

4. Who is your best friend ? Val

5. What is the brand of your TV ? Sanyo

6. What schools did you attend? elementary, middle, high and college

7. Do you own a MP4 ? didn't know there was such a thing

8. What song are you listening to now ? hooked on a feeling is in an ad on tv

9. Did you kiss anybody in the past 2 days ? the dog

10. Have you ever kissed someone you met in the blogosphere? no

11. What would you want to call if you weren't your current name ? my name is fine

12. Would you be happy if you had everything ? wouldn't I just want more?

13. Are you always thinking of someone special? no

14. Tell us of your most desperate dream? huh?

15. When did you last laugh till you cried? today

16. If you had a crush, would you tell them you love him/her now ? probably

17. If you could be anywhere in the world now, where would you want to be ? somewhere

18. When was your heart last broken? a long time ago

19. Whose birthday(s) is/are coming up? my niece

20. How many email accounts do you have? 2

just finished watching...

It was quite long and drawn out. I got restless and almost shut it off. But Will Smith is mighty fine to look at.

funny...

NJ high school prank leaves people gnomeless

The Associated Press

Police in one southern New Jersey town have 75 gnomes without homes.

Police say eight Ocean City High School students gathered the dwarflike figures and strategically placed them on the school's lawn Thursday.

No one has reported any gnomes missing and police are treating the incident as a graduation prank.

Police suspect the gnomes were taken from around Cape May County. But principal Matthew Jamison says he's not sure if they were stolen or purchased at flea markets.

As for the gnomes, they're not talking.

Lt. Steven Ang says most "exercised their constitutional right not to speak to police."

saturday 9

Games People Play

1. What was your favorite active game as a child? we called it Deer Tag... flashlight hide'n seek at night... I think the kids call it Manhunt now

2. What was your favorite board game as a child? Payday

3. Tell us about a friend you played these games with in your youth. my neighborhood was full of families that had kids the same ages as me and my sisters. There was always a group doing something that you could join in.

4. What is your favorite card game? Spite and Malice

5. What board games do you enjoy now? Balderdash and Apples to Apples

6. Do you play video games? Which ones? no

7. Tell us about the friends you play games with now. *sigh* mostly students

8. Do you play any sports now? gawd no

9. What’s your favorite sport to watch? ice hockey and football

mr. famous...

‘Law & Order’ star to address P.I. alma mater

By Jen Lynds
BDN Staff
BANGOR DAILY NEWS FILE PHOTO
Growing up in Presque Isle inspired Broadway actor and playwright John Cariani to tell stories about rural life in his romantic comedy "Almost, Maine."

PRESQUE ISLE, Maine — A Presque Isle High School graduate who is now an actor and playwright will return to his roots tonight when he addresses the PIHS Class of 2009.

John Cariani, who grew up in Presque Isle and graduated from Presque Isle High School in 1987, has appeared on NBC’s “Law & Order” and has taken roles in movies headlined by stars such as Christopher Walken and Robert DeNiro. He won critical acclaim in 2004 for his performance as Motel the tailor in the Broadway revival of “Fiddler on the Roof.” The role earned him an American Theatre Wing’s Tony nomination for Best Performance by a Featured Actor in a Musical.

Judy Cleaves, an administrative assistant at PIHS, said Thursday that Principal Eric Waddell contacted Cariani and asked him to speak.

Superintendent Gehrig Johnson said he and others are looking forward to the speech.

“He is one of our own,” he said Thursday. “This is very exciting, and I know the graduates will enjoy it.”

Cariani and his younger brother, Jeff, were in grade school when their family moved from Massachusetts to Presque Isle, according to previous BDN reports. Cariani’s father, Paul, served as president and chief executive officer of Maine Public Service Co., while his mother, Sheila, taught at Pine Street Elementary School.

Cariani graduated from Amherst College in Massachusetts with a bachelor’s degree in history.

“Law & Order” writers later gave him a regular role on the show as Julian Beck, an expert on blood, dirt and shoe tracks.

Cariani also has appeared on other television shows and in films.

In 2006, Cariani became a playwright after penning “Almost, Maine” a romantic comedy about residents of a town loosely based on Presque Isle.

The play debuted off-Broadway and was presented by the Portland Stage Company and the Penobscot Theatre Company in Bangor. It also was performed by a traveling Penobscot Theatre troupe.

Graduation is scheduled to be held at 7 tonight in the lower gym of the high school.

punkin'

It's 11:39 on a Friday night and I'm still up!!!!!!!

graduations...

Just getting back from a reception that my dad hosted for the local high school's graduation speaker--a friend of mine who is also a former student of my parents that is an actor & playwright. I wish I could've heard his graduation talk, everyone was raving about his warmth and connection to the audience. Hopefully someone was videotaping and I can get to see it, I'll have to email the principal and ask about that.

Last week I created a FaceB*ok account and have been getting in touch with some high school friends I haven't heard from in over twenty years. That plus the end of the school year and graduations and so forth has got me thinking and reminiscing about days gone by. I definitely am not glamorizing the past but I wonder what I would do differently if I could do it again. Mostly I realize I don't fit in with this generation. And that makes me feel old. And a little sad about being old. And nostalgic.

friday fill-in

#128

1. I grew up thinking I would die young.

2. Facebook/Plurk/Twitter was the last website I was at before coming here.

3. Why don't you hug me?

4. Blogging helps me relax.

5. Thanks for the chocolate, it's just what I needed.

6. Body odor is very off-putting.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to going to a gathering at Dad's, tomorrow my plans include nothing and Sunday, I want to get boxes to pack up my classroom!

thursday bug

Sometimes it helps to share with others what bugs your mind.

They may have a solution, a kind word, or a smile of encouragement.

This week my thursday bug is:

Being very overdue for a haircut.

spillin' my guts

Did anyone watch you the last time you kissed someone?
yes

When you're walking, do you stop to drink?
only if there's no straw

Do you believe that if you want something bad enough you'll get it?
no

Have you ever kissed someone in a vehicle?
yes

Ever snuck out of your house?
no

What did you do today?
work... the usual

Would you ever get a tattoo?
another one?? perhaps...

What was the last thing you ate?
ben & jerry's

Are you a morning person or a night person?
morning

Do you snore?
softly

Do you like to spend time with people?
yes

Are you hungry?
no

Are you a forgiving person?
yes

When was the last time you did the dishes?
hahaha

Are you talking to anyone while doing this?
no

Do you want a relationship right now?
not so much

What are you about to do?
take a shower

Have you ever thought someone died, when they really didn't?
yes

If you could be a superhero what would you want to do?
save the world

Your name plus "ness"?
Kwizgiverness

Three feelings at the moment?
crabby, wound, tired

Done anything you regret so far in life?
of course

Are you listening to anything?
watching the D-10

Where are you right now?
in the living room

What are you scared of?
many things

Last movie you watched?
He's Just Not That Into You

Last song you sang out loud?
My Life Would Suck Without You

Are you thinking of someone right now?
no

Who is the last person you talked to on the phone?
a wrong number

Last thing you downloaded on your computer?
a photo

Have you changed much this year?
no

Where was the last place you went besides where you are?
WalMart

Has anyone ever said you looked like a celebrity?
no

Do you speak any other language?
ubby-dubby and pig latin

Do you dress for style or comfort?
yes

Ever had a drunken night in Mexico?
yes

Favorite color(s)?
earth tones

What are you looking forward to this summer?
sleep

Last time you smiled?
now

If you could have anything in the world, what would you want?
peace

just finished reading...

Just finished reading the second book in the Body Movers Mystery Series. It's a fun, sexy mystery. I've got the third, so I'll continue reading them. Fun, light stuff.

kings of leon cover

ten things tuesday...

Ten things I need to do to finish off the school year:

1) Pack up my books. A new heating system is supposed to be put in place over the summer and our rooms are supposed to be torn apart. I've got to pack up all my beautiful supplemental photo books.

2) Copy exams. I have more students taking exams this year than ever before.

3) Prepare course evaluations. Must photocopy and get a box to put them in so they can be completed anonymously.

4) Organize my file cabinet. There are a few old files that I should get rid of.

5) Finish grades. I've got to get organized for final report cards. And double-check the comments.

6) End of year paperwork. That includes creating a room repair list... which is going to have the same three items it's had for the past four years.

7) Book inventory. Collect and inspect the texts, and figure out how to store them this summer.

8) Organize computer files. We are supposed to turn in our laptops to get newer/better/faster ones for the upcoming school year. I've got to organize all the files and clean off the hard drive.

9) Undecorate. All the posters, bulletin boards, wall hangings and student work have to be taken down, sorted and stored.

10) Survive. I've got to make it through the next nine days. They are dragging. And I'm losing my patience with snotty students.

love that 80s music...

just another manic monday

# 171

If you joined the circus, what act would you most want to perform? I would want to be the ringmaster

Would you generally be overdressed or underdressed at a party? overdressed

Do you feel that children should be sheltered from unhappiness? no... I think they need to be taught how to deal. I wish therapy had been available for me and my sisters after Mum died.

too funny

GOD TEXTS THE TEN COMMANDMENTS.
BY JAMIE QUATRO

- - - -
1. no1 b4 me. srsly.

2. dnt wrshp pix/idols

3. no omg's

4. no wrk on w/end (sat 4 now; sun l8r)

5. pos ok - ur m&d r cool

6. dnt kill ppl

7. :-X only w/ m8

8. dnt steal

9. dnt lie re: bf

10. dnt ogle ur bf's m8. or ox. or dnkey. myob.

M, pls rite on tabs & giv 2 ppl.

ttyl, JHWH.

ps. wwjd?

from McSweeney's... lhm

i say... and you think...?

1. Hockey :: field... my position was full back
2. Twirling :: spinning
3. Montreal :: Olympics
4. Better :: newer, faster, stronger (I don't know the name of the song)
5. New :: and improved
6. Rally :: politics
7. Stanley :: Cup
8. USB :: port
9. Scouted :: observed
10. Cough :: phlegm



#332

sunday stealing

Sunday Stealing: The Hate Meme


1. Most hated food: okra

2. Most hated person: crazy dictators

3. Most hated job: anything physically demanding and smelly

4. Most hated city: Amsterdam

5. Most hated band: Guns n Roses

6. Most hated (non-blog) website: child-porn related *shudder*

7. Most hated TV program: King of Queens

8. Most hated politician: Dick Cheney

9. Most hated artist: I don't have one

10. Most hated book: The Poisonwood Bible by Barbara Kingsolver

11. Most hated shop or store: I don't think I have one

12. Most hated organization: KKK

13. Most hated historical event: the Holocaust

14. Most hated sport: cage fighting

15. Most hated technology: spyware

16. Most hated annual event: taxes

17. Most hated daily task: drying the dishes

18. Most hated comedian: don't know his name but all my stupid students quote him and it's not funny

19. Most hated blog: Ann Coulter

20. Most hated song: Billy Jean by Michael Jackson

postsecret

PostSecret is an ongoing community art project where people mail in their secrets anonymously on one side of a homemade postcard. Every week I like to post one that speaks to me.

are you high maintenance?

You Are Low Maintenance

Compared to most people, you are incredibly easy going. To be honest, you are truly a breath of fresh air. You are open minded about trying new things, and you're not upset when things don't work out. You are willing to go along to get along. And your attitude helps you truly enjoy life!

Are You High Maintenance?

what pet are you like?

You Are Like a Horse

You are strong, steady, and devoted. You are a good partner. You are gentle and sensitive. You can be easily frightened. You are usually quite stable, but you do have a wild streak that comes out from time to time. You are cooperative and not a solitary creature. You like to be around others.

What Pet Are You Like?

what season do you feel like?

You Feel Like Autumn

You have reached a point in your life where you feel successful and accomplished. You have a full, bountiful life. And you're ready to sit back and enjoy it. While you feel like you finally have enough in your life, you make find that you also have things you no longer need. This is a time for you to reassess who you are, what you need, and where you want to go next in your life.

What Season Do You Feel Like?

the watercolor test

You Are Highly Inspiring

You believe that your life has a higher purpose, and you do all you can to achieve it. You are wise, and a lot of your wisdom comes from self discipline. You try to live as moderately and modestly as possible. You make room for rational, small indulgences... while living as ethically as you can.

The Watercolor Test