what if this is as good as it gets?

soul questions

2012-02-02T18:46:00.002-05:00

As seen at The Gal's:

1. What is your dream job? I used to say working for Oprah would be a blast, but yanno, the gig I have right now has a lot of pluses

2. What fulfills you? knowing that I connected with someone

3. What’s your greatest fear? becoming incapacitated/dependent

4. What do you want more of in life? love and hugs

5. What is your greatest accomplishment? becoming me

6. What are you ashamed of? my hoarding tendencies

7. What makes you sad? not being accepted for who I am

8. What’s the hardest thing you’ve experienced? not having enough

9. What’s great about you? I am a great listener

10. Who are you? I am me--comfortable in my own skin, confident in my abilities, and always working at something

11. What/Who inspires you? I am inspired, lately, by my colleagues--creative and innovative teachers that don't mind when I steal their ideas

go red

2012-02-02T18:25:00.002-05:00

Do something wonderful for your heart--get informed.

thursday bug

2012-02-02T11:03:00.001-05:00

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:

Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow. Boo hiss!

stunning...

2012-02-01T16:04:00.003-05:00

w.w.w. wednesday

2012-02-01T07:56:00.003-05:00

To play along, just answer the following three (3) questions…

• What are you currently reading? I'm reading The Serpent In The Garden by Janet Gleeson and 11/22/63 by Stephen King--still reading them, I should add; and I picked up Watermark by Vanitha Sankaran

• What did you recently finish reading? I'm reading three books at once, if I focused on just one I would be finished by now, I'm sure...

• What do you think you’ll read next? it seems I'll be lucky to finish one of the three I've been reading for weeks! I don't know what I'll read next...

always on...

2012-01-31T20:55:00.002-05:00

This horrible commercial makes me NOT want to shop at JC Penny. And it's always on. Make it stop!!!

ten things tuesday...

2012-01-31T11:29:00.000-05:00

Ten books in my TBR (Nook) list:

1) Started Early, Took My Dog (Jackson Brodie Series #4) by Kate Atkinson

2) Secret Holocaust Diaries: The Untold Story of Nonna Bannister by Carolyn Tomlin, Denise George, Nonna Bannister

3) Catching Fire & Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins

4) The Kitchen House by Kathleen Grissom

5) The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern

6) Four Corners of the Sky by Michael Malone

7) Monuments Men: Allied Heroes, Nazi Thieves, and the Greatest Treasure Hunt in History by Bret Witter (With), Robert M. Edsel

8) Weekend with Mr. Darcy by Victoria Connelly

9) Mrs. Kimble by Jennifer Haigh

10) The Dog Who Knew Too Much (Chet and Bernie Series #4) by Spencer Quinn

bucket list...

2012-01-31T06:30:00.000-05:00

lurve

2012-01-30T19:10:00.002-05:00

My heart is so happy. I had a great day of teaching. My students all got along and were relatively receptive to what I was doing. I had fun with my colleagues. Tonight I am reminded that I am blessed.

musing mondays

2012-01-30T11:14:00.002-05:00

Click here to play along.

How far along are you in your current read before you start thinking about what you’ll read next?

Oh, I usually don't start thinking about what I'll read next until I'm finished reading. I don't know what type of book I want to read or what I'm reading for school. Occasionally, if I discover an author I love, I'll want to read more of their work immediately.

sunday stealing

2012-01-29T14:11:00.000-05:00

(click the icon to play along)

Sunday Stealing: The 99'er Meme: Part 1

1) Put your iTunes on shuffle. Give me the first 6 songs that pop up. It Happens-Sugarland; Watching The Detectives-Elvis Costello; Body & Soul-Tony Bennett and Amy Winehouse; Coming Home-Diddy, Dirty Money & Skylar Grey; Rehab-Amy Winehouse; Runaway-Maroon 5

2) If you could meet anyone on this earth, who would it be? Jimmy Carter

3) Grab the book nearest to you, turn to page 23, give me line 17. "She clicked off. The extension rang and I picked it up."

4) What do you think about most? oh, yaknow... nothing particular

5) What does your latest text message from someone else say? "Hi"

6) Do you sleep with or without clothes on? yes

7) What's your strangest talent? I am very good at being lazy

8) Women.... (finish the sentence); Men.... (finish the sentence) Women... are powerful; Men... can be gentle.

9) Ever had a poem or song written about you? no

10) When is the last time you played the air guitar? I am more of an air drummer

11) Do you have any strange phobias? all of my phobias are strange

12) Ever stuck a foreign object up your nose? no

13) What's your religion? I don't have a particular religion

14) If you are outside, what are you most likely doing? going to the car

15) Do you prefer to be behind the camera or in front of it? behind

16) Simple but extremely complex. Favorite band? U2

17) What was the last lie you told? I don't remember

18) Do you believe in karma? sure

19) What does your URL mean? it is my blog url

20) What is your greatest weakness; your greatest strength? weakness is laziness, strength is listening

21) Who is your celebrity crush? if I had to have one, maybe George Clooney?

22) Have you ever gone skinny dipping? when I was a teenager

23) How do you vent your anger? usually by crying

24) Do you have a collection of anything? dust bunnies

25) Do you prefer talking on the phone or video chatting online? meh... either

postsecret

2012-01-29T13:55:00.003-05:00

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

right now

2012-01-28T20:39:00.001-05:00

Swiped from Jan(e):

1. I am thinking … about doing my taxes

2. I am thankful for … plumbing that works

3. From the kitchen … I confess, I had some cookie dough--raw!

4. I am wearing … lounge-y clothes

5. I am creating … a blog post

6. I am going … to get ready for bed

7. I am reading … too many books at once

8. I am hoping … to finish one of them tomorrow

9. I am hearing … the Big Bang Theory

10. Around the house … there is significantly less clutter than a year ago

11. One of my favorite things … is napping

12. A few plans for the rest of the week … meetings and meetings and meetings

13. A picture to share …

saturday 9

2012-01-28T12:40:00.001-05:00

How Do You Mend A Broken Heart

1. How did you cope with your biggest heartache? this scene from Sleepless In Seattle says it all

2. Who was the last person you visited in the hospital? my dad, a year ago, I think

3. How many jobs have you held in your life? How many of those were part of your chosen career field? well... let's see... 8 jobs, 3 in my chosen field

4. How did you discover Saturday 9? I used to play Saturday 8 and when that ended I got a special invitation to play

5. If you could take the train from anywhere to anywhere, where would 'anywhere' be? there

6. When was the first time you cooked for someone else? I used to make dinner for my family when I was tall enough to reach the top of the cupboard... so, let's see, I think I was in 5th grade

7. What is the worst beverage you've ever tasted? oh, some horrific mixed drinks I can't even remember the names of

8. Is there anything in life you are "certain" about? Firm in your beliefs? Strong in your convictions? there are a lot of things I'm "certain" about... after spending years talking about them I feel firm in my beliefs and strong in my convictions

9. Do you know anyone who has as very unusual pet? some students have ferrets and reptiles that I think are unusual pets, they might think my dust bunnies are unusual

actors studio

2012-01-27T18:10:00.005-05:00

So excited that George is going to be on Inside The Actors Studio on Tuesday at 7 o'clock.

friday fill-ins

2012-01-27T12:49:00.000-05:00

Join the fun here!

1. It's time to submit my completed quarter grades.

2. Pay attention ... and don't forget the directions are right in front of you!

3. I'm trying to remain calm.

4. "This pencil sharpener doesn't like people", that was the last funny comment I received.

5. Please send colored pencils.

6. No snow day for me, cause I'm in it for the long haul.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to hanging out in my pajamas, tomorrow my plans include hmmm, I have no plans and Sunday, I want to get caught up on reading!

yup

2012-01-26T20:10:00.001-05:00

'zams!

2012-01-26T12:57:00.001-05:00

So, the anxiety level is getting to me. Student anxiety because they didn't prepare or they don't know how to prepare. But the panic is thick in the air. And I am exhausted from the correcting and the monitoring. Being out of routine makes a big difference in how we're all performing, too. And then we are expected to have a regular day tomorrow? Oy.

But I used my time wisely. Especially my down time, which was when I had three periods of study hall and couldn't leave the room. I wrote up my lesson plans until our February break. And I used my planning period well by photocopying everything I need, too. I was even able to create the lessons and handouts for the Maine Content Literacy Program consortium that I am taking part in--which was no small feat. I think the anticipation guides are going to be a big success with my students, though. And I think I'm effectively incorporating the primary sources into the content so that it won't seem as though this strategy is coming out of left field; it's fairly similar to other activities we've done.

I know it's wrong for me to hope, but I hope we have a storm day tomorrow.

... WINTER STORM WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM LATE TONIGHT THROUGH FRIDAY EVENING...

* PRECIPITATION TYPE... SNOW... POSSIBLY MIXED WITH SLEET OR FREEZING RAIN FRIDAY AFTERNOON ACROSS SOUTHERN PORTIONS OF THE WATCH AREA.

* ACCUMULATIONS... SNOW ACCUMULATION OF 4 TO 8 INCHES... ALONG WITH UP TO A TENTH OF AN INCH OF ICE.

* TIMING... EARLY FRIDAY INTO FRIDAY EVENING.

* TEMPERATURES... RISING FROM 10 TO 15 EARLY FRIDAY INTO THE LOWER TO MID 20S BY LATE FRIDAY.

* WINDS... EAST 5 TO 10 MPH.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A WINTER STORM WATCH MEANS THERE IS A POTENTIAL FOR SIGNIFICANT SNOW... SLEET... OR ICE ACCUMULATIONS THAT MAY IMPACT TRAVEL. CONTINUE TO MONITOR THE LATEST FORECASTS.

thursday bug

2012-01-26T09:18:00.003-05:00

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:

High test anxiety and drama.

w.w.w. wednesday

2012-01-25T09:38:00.002-05:00

To play along, just answer the following three (3) questions…

• What are you currently reading? I'm reading The Serpent In The Garden by Janet Gleeson and 11/22/63 by Stephen King--still reading them, I should add; and I picked up Watermark by Vanitha Sankaran

• What did you recently finish reading? I'm reading three books at once, if I focused on just one I would be finished by now, I'm sure...

• What do you think you’ll read next? I don't really know what I'll read next, maybe Breakfast with Buddha by Roland Merullo

ten things tuesday...

2012-01-24T12:58:00.000-05:00

1) It's exam week. I've gone a day and a half without administering a single exam. The rest of my week will be slammed. Bah!

2) I did get appointed to the library board of trustees. Starting in February and finishing in December of 2014.

3) The slushtastic roads were a real bitch this morning. Slushy, icy, yucky. Grrrrr.

4) The classroom is stuffy. It's the energy of testing students, stuffing up the positive flow of air. I might even have to open a window.

5) My lesson plans are complete until our mid-winter break in February. And the photocopying that accompanies it is also done.

6) A friendly colleague just came in to relieve me for a few minutes. How nice!

7) Reading directions is tricky when anxiety is high for these test takers.

8) I hate when I phone someone and leave a message and they don't acknowledge that I've called. I asked you to call me back!

9) I'm taking classes in content literacy and am really excited to try out an activity I created to go along with the strategy we "studied."

10) I can tell I'm in my winter slump, although not nearly as much as I was last year, because all I want to do is go to bed early. Which is not necessarily a bad thing. But yeah, significantly better than a year ago.

musing mondays

2012-01-23T12:57:00.000-05:00

Click here to play along.

Why do you think that the Young Adult genre is so popular with even the adult readers? Do you read YA books, yourself?

The Young Adult market is blossoming because it's got untapped potential. Teen readers are more able to suspend disbelief and get into all types of literature (the vampire romances, for instance). Adults are finding their way to this genre, too, because the YA works are well-written. I read quite a bit of YA, often recommended to me by my students. Occasionally I find myself shaking my jaded head as I read, but ultimately the messages are interesting as the stories explore what it means to find yourself in today's world.

postsecret

2012-01-22T16:51:00.003-05:00

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

sunday stealing

2012-01-22T10:53:00.001-05:00

(click the icon to play along)

Sunday Stealing: The Never Ending Meme, ends

36. Have you watched American Horror Story? no, but I intend to at some point

37. Baseball hat or toque? neither, I don't wear hats

38. Do you shampoo or soap up first in the shower? shampoo

39. Wet the toothbrush or brush dry with the toothpaste? wet

40. Pen or pencil? depends, but usually pen

41. Have you ever gambled at a casino? I got a roll of nickels and played the slots

42. Have you thrown up on a plane? no

43. Have you thrown up in a car? yes

44. Have you thrown up at work? yes

45. Do you scream on roller coasters? if I'm having fun, yes

46. How many shoes do you have? one for each foot... I know, I know... ok, let's see, for winter I have seven pairs of shoes

47. Who was your first roommate? my sister

48. What alcoholic beverage did you drink when you got drunk for the first time? I really don't remember, but it would have been a mixed drink

49. What was your first job? babysitting, I was in high demand

50. What was your first car? Ford Taurus

51. When did you go to your first funeral? my mum's when I was six

52. How old were you when you first moved away from your hometown? twenty-one, that was my semester in Ireland

53. Who was your first grade teacher? Mrs. Bates

54. Where did you go on your first airplane ride? we were going to my cousin's wedding in Philadelphia

55. When you snuck out of your house for the first time, who was it with? I never had to sneak

56. Who was your first best friend and are you still friends with them? Lisa Marquis and through the magic of Facebook, yes, we are still friends

57. Where did you live the first time you moved out of your parents’ house? in a nifty flat in Cork, Ireland

58. Who is the first person you call when you have a bad day? I don't usually call anyone... but maybe my parents

59. Whose wedding were you in the first time you were a bridesmaid or a groomsmen? Lori Ashley's, the bridesmaids dresses were hideous

60. What is the first thing you do in the morning? organize my day

61. What was the first concert you attended? Billy Joel's Innocent Man tour in '84

62. First tattoo or piercing? ears pierced for 8th grade graduation gift

63. First celebrity crush? Jimmy Osmond

can i get an amen?

2012-01-21T08:46:00.001-05:00

saturday 9

2012-01-21T08:17:00.000-05:00

Home

1. Do you live close to where you grew up? Why? I live within a mile of where I was born and raised. Why? Because it's home. I used to be uncomfortable and slightly ashamed to say that but since I've traveled throughout Europe it's not like I'm a yokel who doesn't know about the outside world.

2. Have you ever been so angry that you almost lost control? no

3. Are you a fan of a musical act that slightly embarrasses you? lots of pop stuff, like George Michael

4. Is there a movie that always makes you cry? I get choked up in Four Weddings And A Funeral during the Funeral Blues scene.

5. Who is the most famous person that you've met? Stephen King? I went to a Halloween party at his home in the 80s.

6. Before you leave your home, what must you have? my keys

7. What do you miss the most about being a kid? someone else making decisions about unimportant things (such as: what's for dinner)

8. Tell us about a passion of yours that your readers would not expect. funky-shaped post it notes?

9. At what age do you think you'd be to think, “I've had a great run”? oh, uhm... 90?

the point...

2012-01-20T20:34:00.001-05:00

nerdness...

2012-01-20T16:18:00.000-05:00

what does your birth date mean?

2012-01-19T19:57:00.003-05:00

You Are a Romantic

You have the mind of an artist, even if you haven't developed the talent yet.

Expressive and aware, you enjoy finding new ways to share your feelings.

You often feel like you don't fit in - especially in traditional environments.

You have big dreams. The problem is putting those dreams into action.

Your strength: Your vivid imagination

Your weakness: Fear of failure

Your power color: Coral

Your power symbol: Oval

Your power month: November

What Does Your Birth Date Mean?

Blogthings: Discover the Parts of Your Personality that Have Been Hiding

thursday bug

2012-01-19T17:47:00.002-05:00

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:

No chef waiting to whip up a gourmet meal for me at home.

if only...

2012-01-18T18:35:00.001-05:00

w.w.w. wednesday

2012-01-18T11:19:00.001-05:00

To play along, just answer the following three (3) questions…

• What are you currently reading? I'm reading The Serpent In The Garden by Janet Gleeson and 11/22/63 by Stephen King

• What did you recently finish reading? a re-read of A Tale Of Two Cities by Charles Dickens and I also read The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle by Avi

• What do you think you’ll read next? I need to re-read Watermark for my reading group selection for February.

ten things tuesday

2012-01-17T11:07:00.002-05:00

Ten movies that I stop to watch when I catch them on TV:

1) Office Space.
2) The Sound of Music.
3) Back To The Future.
4) You've Got Mail.
5) The Holiday.
6) The Shawshank Redemption.
7) White Christmas.
8) Elf.
9) Failure To Launch.
10) Finding Nemo.

mlk day

2012-01-16T18:28:00.003-05:00

musing mondays

2012-01-16T13:20:00.000-05:00

What devices –if any– do you read books on? Do you find it enjoyable, or still somewhat bothersome? Or: If you only read the print books, why haven’t you chosen to read on any devices?

Click here to play along.

I love reading on my Nook, Myles. I also read on my iPad, Myrna. It's weird now, to read a physical book. I didn't think I would like an eReader but I love it. Love it!!

he won!

2012-01-15T22:59:00.001-05:00

postsecret

2012-01-15T16:55:00.002-05:00

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

sunday stealing

2012-01-15T11:33:00.003-05:00

(click the icon to play along)

Sunday Stealing: The Never Ending Meme, part two

21. Did you go to your high school prom? no

22. Perfect time to wake up? when I naturally wake up

23. Perfect time to go to bed? depends on if it's a school night or vacation... but early

24. Do you use your queen right away in chess? I am not a chess player

25. Ever been in a car accident? minor only, thankfully

26. Closer to mom or dad…or neither? Dad

27. What age is this exciting life over for you? death?

28. What decade during the 20th century would you have chosen to be a teenager? I have very fond memories of the 80s

29. Favorite shoes you have EVER owned? a pair of bejeweled flip flops

30. Do you have an article of clothing you have had since you were in high school? I have some earrings

31. Were you in track and field? uh, no

32. Were you ever in a school talent show? yes, many

33. Have you ever written in a library book? gak... NO

34. Allergic to? sulfa

35. Favorite fruit? pomegranate... or fresh pineapple

just watched...

2012-01-14T21:05:00.005-05:00

This was a great concoction of a movie--poignant, laugh-out-loud-funny and great acting. Plus a good soundtrack!

saturday 9

2012-01-14T08:06:00.002-05:00

I Know I'm Losing You

1. Have you ever still been in a relationship that you knew was ending, but you hung in with it anyway? If yes, why? yes... because there is so much potential, it could be something great if only

2. Tell why people around the world should be completely enthralled by you. one of my at-risk students said something in class this week that I'm going to use as my answer: he told me that I am his all-time favorite teacher because I am the only teacher that accepts him for who he is.

3. Other than where you live, what's your favorite city and why? I loved Paris but I'm going to choose Cork, Ireland.

4. What is something you are really passionate about? education

5. What has been your most exciting prize that you've won? I won a pie raffle for a homemade mixed berry pie with a lattice top. I shared it with my colleagues and we loved and raved about it

6. Do you think there was there a second gunman behind the grassy knoll? no

7. What was the silliest, most fun, crazy or impractical gift that you received? a bejeweled coin purse in the shape of a dog, I use it for my laundry quarters

8. What was the most practical gift that you received? a car starter

9. What blogger has been in your blogroll the longest? How did you discover them? whoever it is has been there since 2006, when I started my blog. I really can't remember.

true!

2012-01-13T20:09:00.001-05:00

friday fill-ins

2012-01-13T17:54:00.003-05:00

Join the fun here!

1. When I looked out the window this morning I realized it wasn't going to be a day off from school.

2. This political climate doesn't make sense to me.

3. Remind me what book I wanted to read next.

4. Spending time with my friends is something I love to do!

5. TP is essential.

6. I cleaned the refrigerator recently and I found old apples.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to not doing too much, tomorrow my plans include The Breakfast Club's monthly get together and Sunday, I want to stay up late!

ready for real life...

2012-01-12T18:45:00.001-05:00

fingers crossed

2012-01-12T17:29:00.001-05:00

Could be a four-day weekend??

Thu, Jan 12, 2012, 3:42 PM EST

... WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 7 PM EST FRIDAY...

* PRECIPITATION TYPE... SNOW.

* ACCUMULATIONS... SNOW ACCUMULATION OF 3 TO 5 INCHES... ALONG WITH AROUND A TRACE OF ICE.

* TIMING... THURSDAY AFTERNOON INTO FRIDAY EVENING.

* TEMPERATURES... IN THE TEENS RISING INTO THE LOW 30S.

* WINDS... EAST 10 TO 15 MPH WITH GUSTS UP TO 25 MPH.

* IMPACTS... LOW IMPACT. EXPECT SOME TRAVEL DIFFICULTIES. SNOW WILL PRODUCE SLIPPERY CONDITIONS.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

IF TRAVELING... SLOW DOWN AND PLAN EXTRA TIME TO REACH YOUR DESTINATION.

thursday bug

2012-01-12T11:05:00.003-05:00

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:

Students hyped up about an impending snow storm. We'll probably have school even though we're going to get snow.

w.w.w. wednesday

2012-01-11T17:52:00.001-05:00

To play along, just answer the following three (3) questions…

• What are you currently reading? I'm reading The Serpent In The Garden by Janet Gleeson

• What did you recently finish reading? a re-read of A Tale Of Two Cities by Charles Dickens and I also read The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle by Avi

• What do you think you’ll read next? 11/22/63 by Stephen King... it's at the top of my To Be Read list!

ten things tuesday

2012-01-10T18:48:00.002-05:00

Ten things about today:

1) I spent an hour and a half waiting for AAA to come tow my car from an icy driveway. After waiting all that time, the tow truck driver got in the car, backed it up and drove it away. I was beside myself.

2) I can't seem to get out of my own way at school this week. I've got to get organized for exams.

3) My mind is scattered, too. I can't focus. Long enough. To do anything.

4) Using a gift card I received for Christmas, I bought a new wallet. Now I need to transfer everything from my current one to the new one. That's a hassle. But the new wallet is paisley embossed leather!

5) I haven't chatted online with my sisters this week. It feels weird to go this long without chatting.

6) It disgusts me that Casey Anthony is in the news again. I can't believe I just wrote her name.

7) I taped quite a few shows last night, I wonder when I'll get a chance to watch them?

8) One of my doctors keeps rescheduling my appointment--it's been four months that I've gotten the runaround.

9) I think I'll go to bed early and read tonight.

10) I need a fluffy read now, since I finished A Tale Of Two Cities.

horoscope

2012-01-09T20:07:00.001-05:00

January 9, 2012
Sudden Adventure
Scorpio Daily Horoscope

You may be inspired to take a break from your regular routine today and do something unexpected. A desire to be spontaneous could compel you to seek out new adventures. You may jump at the opportunity to travel or learn a new skill. You may find yourself confronted with a chance to adopt a sudden change in lifestyle today. Consider taking advantage of such possibilities, even if you are unsure of how they will turn out. Decisions made without premeditation often lead to unforgettable experiences of a lifetime. The impulses that come to us all of a sudden have somehow managed to override our minds and come straight through our hearts. Seizing opportunities that come to us out of the blue can lead to a more thrilling life.

Indulging your spontaneous feelings can be a wonderful way to add excitement to your life. Allowing yourself to try something new or alter your plans—on the spur of the moment and without too much deliberation—can imbue your life with a sense of adventure that keeps you feeling energized and interested. Boredom can find no foothold when you take life as it comes, and ordinary activities can become extraordinary when approached as if they were new adventures. Add spontaneity to your lifestyle today, and the potential for adventure will never be absent from your life.

interview...

2012-01-09T17:24:00.002-05:00

I interviewed today with a couple City Council members for a position as a Trustee on the public library Board. It lasted about ten minutes and they seemed impressed that I was prepared--I had read the Mission Statement and By-Laws. And I talked about how I use the technological side of the library: their social networking, online catalog, reserving books online, and the virtual library. The only thing I forgot to find out is when I will find out.

what's your name's hidden meaning?

2012-01-09T17:14:00.003-05:00

You Are Bold and Fearless

You are usually the best at everything ... you strive for perfection.

You are confident, authoritative, and aggressive.

You have the classic "Type A" personality.

You are relaxed, chill, and very likely to go with the flow.

You are light hearted and accepting. You don't get worked up easily.

Well adjusted and incredibly happy, many people wonder what your secret to life is.

You tend to be pretty tightly wound. It's easy to get you excited... which can be a good or bad thing.

You have a lot of enthusiasm, but it fades rather quickly. You don't stick with any one thing for very long.

You have the drive to accomplish a lot in a short amount of time. Your biggest problem is making sure you finish the projects you start.

You are the total package - suave, sexy, smart, and strong.

You have the whole world under your spell, and you can influence almost everyone you know.

You don't always resist your urges to crush the weak. Just remember, they don't have as much going for them as you do.

You are well rounded, with a complete perspective on life.

You are solid and dependable. You are loyal, and people can count on you.

At times, you can be a bit too serious. You tend to put too much pressure on yourself.

You are very intuitive and wise. You understand the world better than most people.

You also have a very active imagination. You often get carried away with your thoughts.

You are prone to a little paranoia and jealousy. You sometimes go overboard in interpreting signals.

What's Your Name's Hidden Meaning?

Blogthings: Our Quizzes Weren't Written By Bored 12 Year Olds

sweet air...

2012-01-08T19:52:00.001-05:00

just finished reading...

2012-01-08T14:06:00.002-05:00

Recommended by several students, it is the exciting tale of Charlotte Doyle: a self-absorbed thirteen-year-old girl who finds herself aboard the Seahawk, in 1832, on a life changing voyage from Liverpool to Providence, RI. This book challenges conventional stereotypes and issues, such as gender, race, class and justice. Transformation is as much a character as it is a theme in the novel. I learned a lot about sailing and boats. I can see why my students raved about it--murder, mayhem, and mystery tightly woven together in the two-month journey.

sunday stealing

2012-01-08T11:44:00.002-05:00

(click the icon to play along)

Sunday Stealing: The Never Ending Meme, part one

1. Song that always makes you sad? there's an Elton John song that I can't remember the name of... but it makes me sad

2. Last thing you bought? coffee

3. Last person you argued with? Dale

4. Do you put butter before putting the peanut butter on? no

5. One of your stuffed animals’ names as a kid? Teddy

6. Did you ever at one time own a Barenaked Ladies CD? I currently do, I love them!

7. Favorite day of the week? every

8. Favorite sundae topping? hot fudge

9. Did you take piano lessons? no

10. Most frequent song played? lately it's been "The Walk" by Mayer Hawthorne

11. T.V. show you secretly enjoy? the Housewives of anywhere on Bravo

12. Would you rather play basketball or hockey? hockey, floor hockey

13. Date someone older or younger? not significantly either way

14. One place you could travel right now? warmer than here

15. Do you use umbrellas? occasionally

16. Do you know all the words to the Canadian national anthem? no

17. Favorite cheese? I don't have a favorite--I like them all

18. The Smith’s or The Cure? The Smith's in college and The Cure after

19. Do you prefer blondes or brunettes? meh, it doesn't matter

20. Best job you ever had? teaching

postsecret

2012-01-08T11:29:00.003-05:00

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

25 fun

2012-01-07T18:37:00.000-05:00

Swiped from Cat:

1. If you were trapped in a room with the person who asked this for 24 hours, what would you do? The answer cannot be romantic or sexual. we would talk about books!

2. If you could learn any language instantly, what would it be? French

3. If you could only read one book for the rest of your life, what would it be? oh my... a fat volume of stories or plays

4. Favorite song lyric? today it is: "Today I don't feel like doing anything/I just wanna lay in my bed"

5. Favorite album? Achtung Baby by U2

6. Which time of day would you say is best for you work-wise? morning

7. Favorite city that you’ve visited? Paris

8. Favorite city that you haven’t visited? New York

9. If you could donate $10,000 to charity, what charity would you pick? I would choose a local charity, maybe the local homeless shelter

10. What is one book you wish you could get all your friends to read? Unsaid by Neil Abramson

11. What is one movie you wish you could get all your friends to watch? Beautiful Girls

12. What do you think people assume about you from first glance? I'm pleasant

13. If you could play any musical instrument, what would it be? I think I'd like to play guitar

14. What is your favorite item of clothing? I don't have just one favorite

15. Who was your first follower on tumblr? Do they still follow you? a former student, and yes, she still follows me

16. If you could create one thing, what would it be? peace

17. Favorite superhero? Wonder Woman

18. If you were to write an autobiography, what would you title it? I might call it the title of this blog, What If This Is As Good As It Gets?

19. If you were to have a band, what would you call it? it would depend on the style of music

20. What is your favorite card/board game? card game = spite and malice; board game = Balderdash

21. What was the first IM service you used? Who was the first person you talked to on it? it was AIM on AOL and I don't remember who I talked to

22. If you could give a friendly hug to any one person, who would it be? Cannot be your romantic/sexual partner if you have one. someone who is a great hugger

23. Have you ever won any sort of contests? What kind? I won a raffle once and got to select a pie

24. Who was the last person you hugged? Cannot be your romantic/sexual partner if you have one. Sarae

25. If you could be skilled in any one activity, what would it be? Cannot be romantic or sexual. I would be a neat freak... hahaha

reading group...

2012-01-07T14:23:00.002-05:00

A classic chosen for my Reading Group. I read this while in high school. So I knew the basics of the story and didn't feel driven to re-read it entirely. There is much to talk about what with the French Revolution as the backdrop. The atrocities of war, the atrocities of peace. I'm sure we'll also discuss the redemptive nature of the book, too, how the characters are changed by their circumstances.

I am really glad this is a re-read for me because I had a hard time sticking with it.

saturday 9

2012-01-07T10:15:00.001-05:00

Nobody Told Me

1. When you grew up were you ever told how to deal with problems? no, other than to "Be tough"

2. What was your first apartment like? it had stucco walls along the staircase so if you weren't careful you'd get scratched up... it had a tiny bathroom a galley kitchen. It was furnished, so I didn't mind.

3. What was the first car you owned? a Ford Taurus

4. Tell us about a crush or relationship that you had at high school. ah, yes, on one of the varsity basketball players... I even sent him an anonymous carnation for Valentine's Day

5. Have you ever had an “enemy” in your life? thinking back to high school, there was one boy who I always considered my nemesis all throughout our school years. He was at the 10-year reunion but I've since lost track of him, although I know he is new to FaceBook.

6. What were you doing the first night that you got drunk? playing cards and quarters

7. Ten years ago, what was you job and did you like it? I have the same job now, and yes, I liked it

8. What movie had the biggest impact on you as a child and why? Mary Poppins because we all need a governess like Mary, to bring the magic into our lives

9. What are your plans for this weekend? I actually have no plans! I'm going to read and sleep.

love this song...

2012-01-06T20:03:00.002-05:00

friday fill-ins

2012-01-06T16:45:00.001-05:00

Join the fun here!

1. Discussions sometimes go unexpected places.

2. I have a hard time saying goodbye.

3. I think it's time to make my resolutions.

4. Most days, teaching puts a smile on my face.

5. Maybe sometime it's ok to have dessert first.

6. Love (from family & friends) gives me strength.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to doing whatever, tomorrow my plans include huh, I actually don't have plans and Sunday, I want to get organized!

sums up the week back from vacation...

2012-01-05T18:23:00.001-05:00

thursday bug

2012-01-05T18:21:00.002-05:00

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:

Smeared glasses.

resolve to resolve...

2012-01-04T19:47:00.001-05:00

I cannot believe it's January 4 and I still do not have resolutions for the year. I love to set myself up for success--a couple of years ago it was to get a massage a month, which turned into getting a pedicure every month. I just don't know what to do this year. I should read more non-fiction. I say that every year. Maybe that's the one.

w.w.w. wednesday

2012-01-04T17:52:00.001-05:00

To play along, just answer the following three (3) questions…

• What are you currently reading? I am slogging my way through A Tale Of Two Cities by Charles Dickens for my book group (which meets Friday the 13th and I really hope to be finished by then).

• What did you recently finish reading? a re-read of The Christmas Cookie Club by Ann Pearlman

• What do you think you’ll read next? I want to read the new Stephen King book 11/22/63. But I also have a book that a student lent to me and I can't recall the title right now.

ten things tuesday...

2012-01-03T17:09:00.000-05:00

Ten things that begin with the letter H:

1) Hugs. I am a fan of hugs. Hugs are the best.

2) Hot Cocoa. It's one of my favorite things and I do drink it year-round. I like flavored hot cocoa, too, particularly mint. And I especially love it with whipped cream on it.

3) Helloooooooo! Sounding like Mrs. Doubtfire, it's how I greet my nieces.

4) Home. It's my favorite place to be.

5) Hippos!

6) Helping. I feel great when I help others--regardless of what they need help with.

7) Honesty. It's important to be honest with others and with myself.

8) Happiness. Need I say more?

9) Hotels. I love staying at hotels. Luckily I haven't had bed bug incidents.

10) History. I teach history. I read about history. I watch history. And I try to inspire my students to enjoy history, too.

personal best...

2012-01-02T14:33:00.000-05:00

One of my biggest accomplishments in 2011 is reading a lot. I've read fifty-six books this year. That, I'm sure, is a personal record. I tried to write a little bit about each book on the 2011 page. And there was just one book I couldn't finish (which did not make the count). It was a great year for reading--several 5 star books and many others that I would cheerfully recommend to others. I think I read more because of my Nook, Myles. Here's to another great year of reading!

happy new year...

2012-01-01T16:38:00.001-05:00

As seen at Plurk, via Janewithoutane:

postsecret

2012-01-01T10:34:00.002-05:00

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

sunday stealing

2012-01-01T10:15:00.002-05:00

(click the icon to play along)

Sunday Stealing: The 2011 Year End Meme

1. What did you do in 2011 that you’d never done before? I read the Harry Potter series and watched all the movies

2. Did you keep your new year’s resolutions, and will you make more for next year? I kept some

3. Did anyone close to you give birth? no

4. Did anyone close to you die? no

5. What countries did you visit? no countries but several states

6. What would you like to have in 2012 that you lacked in 2011? less clutter

7. What dates from 2011 will remain etched upon your memory, and why? October 25 was my first date and we'll see how it unfolds

8. What was your biggest achievement of the year? family road trip

9. What was your biggest failure? I didn't completely declutter

10. What was the best thing you bought? comfortable shoes

11. Whose behavior merited celebration? my oldest niece

12. Whose behavior made you appalled and disgusted? Charlie Sheen

13. What song will always remind you of 2011? Forget You by CeeLo Green

14. What do you wish you’d done more of? gone to the movies by myself

15. What do you wish you’d done less of? worry

16. Did you fall in love in 2011? no

17. What was your favorite new TV program? I can't think of anything new

18. What was the best book you read? The Swan Thieves, State of Wonder, Unsaid, The Marriage Plot... I read so many good books!

19. What one thing would have made your year measurably more satisfying? more money

20. How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2011? comfortably classic

21. What kept you sane? blogging

22. Who did you miss? my sisters

23. Who was the best new person you met? my (boy)friend

24. Tell us a valuable lesson you learned in 2011? "it is what it is"

25. Quote a song lyric that sums up your year. "Even better than the real thing..."

bless this year...

2011-12-31T16:00:00.001-05:00

saturday 9

2011-12-31T11:02:00.001-05:00

Sam's Last Stand: 2011

1. Over all, how do you feel about what happened in your life in 2011? I am satisfied

2. Do you do New Year's resolutions? If so, what are they this year? I do make resolutions but I haven't given it much thought yet... that's today's thinking

3. In the past 24 hours, I have reconnected with 3 old friends that I've not spoken to in years. If you could reconnect with someone from your past who would it be, and why? my friend Tracy--she moved and we lost touch, same with my friend Sue, and my friend Tammy--her life circumstances changed and we just drifted

4. Do you have anything that you would have not done or done differently in 2011 as you look back? I would have stopped being silly about doing things by myself (like going to the movies)

5. Going back to my ex-friends that I reconnected with, one of them ended over a boyfriend. She called to apologize. Do you have someone that you fell out with you and wonder how they are? I haven't fallen out with anyone

6. If you had a chance to reconnect with an ex (say for coffee), who would it be, and why? I don't think I would

7. One of resolutions is about weight-loss. Have you ever struggled with your diet? I have given up the struggle: it is what it is

8. What do you think was the top news story of 2011? I think the devastating tornadoes that ripped through the country is the biggest story.

9. What are your plans for (New Year's Eve) tonight? I am going out to dinner and had planned to go to the movies but the theater is closed for the late show. So, dinner is the only thing going on.

2011 in 12 sentences...

2011-12-31T10:34:00.000-05:00

January: Discovered Kate Atkinson, a great author with a fun series.

February: Worst driving weather, ever!

March: First personal day, spent the day celebrating me!

April: Consumed with the Royal Wedding!

May: Discovered my love for Pintrest!

June: Summer vacation began.

July: ROADTRIP!

August: Back to school--with high spirits for a good kick-off to the year; even with a Freshman homeroom.

September: My dear friend was awarded 2012 Maine Teacher Of The Year!

October: First date jitters.

November: Finished the Harry Potter series--books and movies. Wow!

December: Simply having a wonderful Christmas time!

new year's eve meme

2011-12-30T14:42:00.001-05:00

I did this a year ago and thought I would try it again.

In 2011, I gained: professional confidence.

I lost: a friend.

I stopped: feeling guilty for not finishing books.

I started: opening myself up to someone new.

I was hugely satisfied by: by my ability to speak up during a difficult meeting.

And frustrated by: my inability to get out of my own way sometimes.

I am so embarrassed that I: didn't go to the movies by myself.

Once again, I: worked at decluttering.

Once again, I did not: finish decluttering.

The biggest physical difference between me last December and this December is: comfortable shoes.

The biggest psychological difference between me last December and this December is: connecting better with my sisters.

I loved spending time: with my family on our road trip.

Why did I spend even two minutes: being nervous.

I should have spent more time: being thankful.

I regret buying: my iPad 1st generation, I should have waited and bought the 2nd generation.

I will never regret buying morning coffee even though with that money I could have spent it on books.

I play Farmville way too much.

I didn’t exercise enough.

Anticipation drove me crazy.

The most relaxing place I went was going for leisurely drives.

Why did I go to extremes?

The best thing I did for someone else was listen. And care.

The best thing I did for myself open myself to the possibilities.

The best thing someone did for me be there when I needed it.

The one thing I’d like to do again, but do it better, join a committee with a focus.

friday fill-ins

2011-12-30T09:34:00.004-05:00

Join the fun here!

1. Wait, wait what?

2. This New Year's Eve is a little different.

3. In addition, there are possibilities for the New Year.

4. Peacefully is the way we do it here!

5. At the end of the year, I like to watch When Harry Met Sally.

6. Feeling great is one of the things I'm looking forward to in 2012.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to going out to dinner, tomorrow my plans include celebrating New Year's Eve and Sunday, I want to recover!

(design by "thetruebookaddict.blogspot.com/)"

reading...

2011-12-30T09:28:00.001-05:00

Each time we read for enjoyment, the empathy awakened within us creates entire landscapes in our mind's eye.

be

2011-12-29T09:32:00.001-05:00

thursday bug

2011-12-29T09:02:00.003-05:00

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:

The itch of a healing wound, I cut the side of my wrist and it itches like crazy.

finished re-reading...

2011-12-29T08:59:00.001-05:00

This is one of the times I wish I had the book in book form, instead of Nook form, so I could pass it along. The Christmas Cookie Club is what friendship is all about.

swiped...

2011-12-28T19:38:00.004-05:00

Swiped from Cat:

1. Did someone die in that last movie you watched? yes

2. Are the trees pretty colors outside for you now or at all? except for the evergreens, the trees are bare and are not pretty colors

3. Do your parents make/made you weed the garden? no, I used to have to clip the "candles" on the pine tree to prevent it from growing

4. When's the last time you video recorded something on TV? daily

5. How big is your memory chip? uh... huh?

6. What are your views on sunflowers? they're gorgeous

7. What is your favorite incense scent? I don't have one

8. Caramel apples or candy apples? neither... if forced to choose, caramel

9. Have you ever tried one of those blue candy apples? never heard of them

10. Would you ever or do you make your dog wear a bandanna? I would probably dress my dog if I had one

11. Do you find dandelions when they're gone all white pretty? yes

just saw...

2011-12-27T22:04:00.000-05:00

A fun date night movie. Lots of interwoven story lines with a phenomenal cast. Michelle Pfiffer stole the show. And Jon Bon Jovi was not hard to look at.

ten things tuesday...

2011-12-27T08:09:00.000-05:00

10 Gifts for a Happy New Year

1. The Gift of Listening...
Try giving this to someone in need. And you must really listen. No interrupting, no daydreaming, no planning your responses. Just listen.

2. The Gift of Signs of Affection...
Be generous with your hugs, kisses and gentle squeezes of the hand. Let these tiny actions demonstrate the love inside of you.

3. The Gift of a Note...
It can be as simple as "I Love You" or as creative as a sonnet. Put your notes where they will surprise your loved ones.

4. The Gift of Laughter...
Just cut out a cartoon, save a clever article. Your gift will say "I love to laugh with you".

5. The Gift of Compliment...
A simple "You look good in blue" or "Good supper" can be of greatest value to those who may feel they are being taken for granted.

6. The Gift of a Favor...
Help with the dishes, run an errand, etc.

7. The Gift of Leaving Alone...
There are times in our lives when we want nothing better than to be left alone. Become more sensitive to those times and give solitude.

8. The Gift of A cheerful Disposition...
Try to be cheerful around those you love.

9. The Gift of a Game...
Offer to play your love one's favorite game. Even if you lose, you'll be a winner.

10. The Gift of Prayer...
Pray for your loved ones and let them know you pray for them.

life's like this...

2011-12-26T14:45:00.002-05:00

Swiped from Cat:

Does your best friend approve of the last person you kissed? she hasn't met him, but she's on board

Is there anything bothering you right now? nothing I can think of

What color shirt are you wearing? white

Do you care what you look like? well, yes

Have you ever skipped school just because you were tired? no

Who was the last person you spoke to on the phone for over an hour? hmmm... probably my bestie

Do you think that you will be in a relationship three months from now? I have no idea

Are you wearing jeans, shorts, sweatpants or pajama pants? I am wearing "judo" pants, which I guess are like sweatpants but they're lightweight cotton

Where is the last person you kissed at the moment? I kissed my dad goodbye last night, I think he's home

Do you think you're wasting your time on the person you have feelings for? no

Do you like flowery scents or more clean scents? a combination of clean flowery scents?

Do you own a manual or electric toothbrush? manual

Do you prefer heels or flats? is a wedge a heel or a flat? I guess a flat

Do you try to eat healthy? not so much

What food could you live off for the rest of your life? potatoes, bread, pizza

Do you leave the television on and sleep to it? I don't have a TV in the bedroom

Do you watch movies on TV? yes

What is your name supposed to mean? a name dictionary says it means "Of the Nobility" or "Honest"

How many pillows do you sleep with? two

Name two things that you have on you at all times: glasses and keys

What's the color of your bedsheets? navy blue and plaid burgundy/navy/green

How much cash do you have on you right now? nothing in my loungey pants but I have maybe $60 in my wallet

What is your favorite town/city? I loved living in Cork, Ireland

What did you have for dinner last night? I was stuffed from our late lunch so I skipped dinner

What website(s) do you visit the most during the day? PowerSchool and GMail at school... when I'm at home Blogger, FaceBook, GMail

Is anything on your body hurting right now? nope

What is your favorite Starbucks drink? a vanilla toffee almond

Recent time that you were really upset? school on Friday

What wild animals have you seen outside a zoo? Moose, deer, fox, rabbits, groundhogs, bear, assorted birds, skunks, and other typical neighborhood animals

Do you consider yourself to be an "animal person"? meh

Are you afraid of any animals? lots of them

What is your favorite animal? domesticated or wild? domesticated = dogs, wild = giraffe or hippo

Are there any animals you wish were extinct? not really

What kind of computer do you own? a Dell Vostro 1000

How old were you when you had your very first computer? uhm, hmmm... I think I was thirty

What products do you buy the most? (Clothes, food, etc.) books

What is your favorite store to shop at? just about any

When was the last time you went shopping? Christmas Eve at 7 am

Do you even like shopping? I love shopping

What was the last movie you saw in theaters? Breaking Dawn

How much is a movie ticket where you live? $5

Would you rather watch a movie alone or with someone? at home, alone; at the movies, with someone

Would you see a movie just because a favorite actor was in it? of course

What movie would you like to watch right now? oh, I donno

How often do you watch movies? about weekly

Who do you argue with more: Friends, family or significant other? significant other, I suppose

postsecret

2011-12-26T13:54:00.003-05:00

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

fun gift...

2011-12-25T21:00:00.001-05:00

Got my sisters (and myself) webcams for Christmas. Now we can video chat. I'm so excited to try it out.

it's merry...

2011-12-25T19:26:00.001-05:00

today's wraptastic!

2011-12-24T10:20:00.001-05:00

So it's Christmas Eve and I've already been shopping. And I'm done, now it's time to start putting together my famous gift bags. I'm going to be finished my wraptastic day earlier than usual, which will leave me plenty of time for a nap before I go on my annual lights drive around town. Having a full week of school has really dampened my holiday spirits. I hope I can shake off the school blahs and dig into my usual holiday cheer. Actually, I felt merry when I was shopping this morning. W*lM*rt was crowded so I went to the K-M*rtique instead and it was not crowded or overly busy. I bet I'll be my usual jolly self shortly.

It is a white Christmas, we did finally get some snow. It's not overly cold out, either, which adds to my festive mood. Zero degrees isn't too bad.

friday fill-ins

2011-12-23T17:05:00.004-05:00

Join the fun here!

1. Said the night wind to the little lamb, do you hear what I hear.

2. The first Noel, the angel did say, was to certain poor shepherds in fields where they lay.

3. Dashing through the snow, in a one horse open sleigh.

4. It came upon the midnight clear, that glorious song of old.

5. When I was small I believed in Santa Claus, though I knew it was my dad.

6. And the thing that will make them ring is the carol that you sing right within your heart.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to gathering my wits, tomorrow my plans include finishing my shopping and Sunday, I want to enjoy a beautiful Christmas!

(design by "thetruebookaddict.blogspot.com/)"

christmas meme 10

2011-12-22T19:37:00.000-05:00

1.The Christmas song I can listen to even in June is... the whole George Winston December album

2.Hot Chocolate, Egg Nog or Mulled wine? hot chocolate

3.When do you put your decorations up? Thanksgiving weekend

4 What are you having for Christmas dinner? I think we're having a roast

5.What is your favorite Christmas tradition? the family sing-a-long right before Christmas

6. Have you ever gone Carol singing? yes, years ago a whole group of my friends went... we had a blast

7. When did you learn the truth about Santa? the year Mum died, Dad sat me down and told me the story of Santa, then told me not to tell my friends

8. How do you decorate your Christmas tree? when I have my big tree, I have gold and red lights, gold beads and red bows

9. What's the best thing about Christmas? the spirit in the air

10. All I want for Christmas is... vacation!

thursday bug

2011-12-22T16:45:00.002-05:00

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:

Students whining because we have a full week of school, right up until 2:45 on the 23rd.

solstice

2011-12-21T18:17:00.006-05:00

If we had no winter, the spring would not be so pleasant: if we did not sometimes taste of adversity, prosperity would not be so welcome.~Anne Bradstreet

In the depth of winter, I finally learned that within me there lay an invincible summer.~Albert Camus

finished reading...

2011-12-21T17:21:00.004-05:00

From the publisher:

Married for twenty years to Edward Berry, Lyddie is used to the trials of being a whaler's wife in the Cape Cod village of Satucket, Massachusetts—running their house herself during her husband's long absences at sea, living with the daily uncertainty that Edward will simply not return. And when her worst fear is realized, she finds herself doubly cursed. She is overwhelmed by grief, and her property and rights are now legally in the hands of her nearest male relative: her daughter's overbearing husband, whom Lyddie cannot abide. Lyddie decides to challenge both law and custom for control of her destiny, but she soon discovers the price of her bold "war" for personal freedom to be heartbreakingly dear.

Set in my favorite historical time, I felt such a strong bond with this story. Lots of historical detail and authentic characters created a rich atmosphere. There were twists and I wanted to know what was going to happen with Lyddie.

christmas meme 9

2011-12-20T18:22:00.003-05:00

True Or False

1. You prefer to stay inside where it’s warm? true

2. You’ve given something (or $) to charity? true

3. You spent more than what people spent on you? probably true

4. You like to take your time opening presents? true

5. The thing you want most this year costs $100+? false

6. You expect to get more than 10 presents this year? false

7. You’re a Scrooge/Grinch? false

8. Christmas = snow? false

9. You know the lyrics to more than 25 Christmas songs? oh yeah

ten things tuesday...

2011-12-20T17:42:00.002-05:00

Ten things:

1) I don't really know if I'm ready. I've got a couple things that are still en route. Fingers crossed that they'll be here in time.

2) I haven't watched all of Elf this year. What is wrong with me?

3) I have the Charlie Brown special from NetFlix. I'll probably watch it tonight.

4) I spent time with my 8th period AP class talking about books we've read. Then we got talking about me being a "plugged in" teacher and they were amazed that I have a blog and that I use Twitter (and Plurk). So they made me send a tweet from class. Wasted time, but it was so much fun.

5) My other classes seem to think we're just supposed to be playing reindeer games. They are not impressed that we're working on an in-class project until Friday.

6) Speaking of Friday, can you believe we have school on Friday--a regular school day?

7) I don't know what to get myself for a gift this year. I didn't get myself a birthday gift or a Thanksgiving gift, either. I could buy myself some books.

8) My right hand ring finger's top knuckle is really, really sore. For no reason. Sharp, stabbing pain in the joint. It needs to go away. Right now!

9) There's no new Glee until next year.

10) I emailed Dad today to find out if we're having our annual family sing-a-long party this year. He forgot to invite me! It's Wednesday.

christmas meme 8

2011-12-19T17:13:00.002-05:00

How Does He Do It?

1. Get down the chimney? magic

2. Deliver presents all over the world? time zones

3. Get so fat and still act so jolly? cookies!

4. Recruit reindeer for sleigh-pulling lessons? oh, they line up for the chance

5. Provide compensation for elves making toys? it's not a job for them, it's a labor of love

6. Stay unseen from the rest of the world? he's unseen?

Would It Still Be Christmas Without…

7. Candy canes? yes

8. Snow? it would be weird

9. Stores opening at 5am? yes

10. Winter vacation? NO!

11. Visiting family & friends? it wouldn't be the same

12. Fake Santas? as long as they love what they're doing, and bring some authenticity to their role they're okay

13. Christmas trees? I can go without a tree but not trees in general

14. New holiday movies? I love my old favorites

15. Getting holiday greeting cards/email? I don't get very many, so yeah, it wouldn't really matter to go without

16. Holiday tunes? oh, no, the music makes the holidays!

sunday stealing

2011-12-18T12:09:00.002-05:00

(click the icon to play along)

Sunday Stealing: The Community Meme

1. As a blogger, what do you draw inspirations from for your posts? whatever is on my mind, and I love memes

2. If you could swap blogs with another blogger for a post, who would you switch with and why? Mrs. Chili, her ability to articulate what I wish I could say is amazing

3. If your blog had a theme song, what would it be? Why? You Can't Always Get What You Want, because it is a reality of life

4. What is your writing process for a post? I don't have one

5. Your blog requires a cute, new, mascot - what would it be? oh, a cute puppy

6. Do you feel you express your "true self" on your blog? yes

7. What is your biggest online pet-peeve? failed snarkiness

8. If you could live in a fictional universe, where would you live? Why? I'd live in the Friends universe, where fabulous apartments are rent-controlled, people never seem to have regular work hours, and money doesn't factor into much of anything

9. You're having a bad day, you're upset, you're angry, or you're sad - what is your go-to comfort? I drive

10. What is your favorite inspirational quote? You must be the change you want to see in the world. ~Mahatma Gandhi

11. If they were to make a movie based on your life, who would play you, your leading lady/man, your best friend, and your rival? Melissa McCarthy would be me with George Clooney as my leading man, my best friend would be Julia Roberts and my rival would be... hmmm... Kate Winslet

12. Do you think the world is going to end in 2012? no

13. If you could change anything about yourself, what would it be? I would not be a clutter bug

14. What is your favorite season and why? autumn, especially when it's an Indian Summer

15. You've been bitten by a vampire. Would you fight it with all your undead being or would you embrace it for all it is worth? if the vampire is Eric Northman I would not resist

16. Have you personally met any of your blogger friends? not yet

17. What does your favorite pair of underwear look like? they all look about the same

18. Have you ever drank something right from the container in the refrigerator knowing other people will have to drink out of the same container later? no, I don't drink from the container even though I live alone

19. What is your favorite word and explain why? I seem to say Shit more than anything

20. 2011 is soon coming to a close, is there anything you'd like to do different on your blog in the year 2012? not that I can think of off the top of my head

postsecret

2011-12-18T11:49:00.003-05:00

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

christmas meme 7

2011-12-17T20:04:00.001-05:00

First Thought That Comes To Mind When You Hear…

1. Snowflake! That would be a good name for a reindeer.

2. North Pole! Santa's workshop

3. Elves! toys

4. Sleigh! jingle bells

5. Presents! wrapping

6. Cookies! baking

7. Mistletoe! kisses

8. Rudolph! TV special

9. Blizzard! shoveling

10. School’s Canceled! yippee!

11. Ice Skating! falling on my ass

12. Santa’s Lap! whispers

13. Black Friday! kick-off to mad shopping

14. Melting Snow! springtime

15. Carols! Dad's wonderful concerts

16. Lumps of Coal! naughty list

17. Nutcracker! ballet

18. Ho Ho Ho! jolly

only Santa can...

2011-12-17T17:14:00.000-05:00

STOCKTON, Calif. -- A California teenager has learned the hard way that he's no Santa Claus.

The Stockton Record reports 18-year-old George Herrera got stuck in a chimney while trying to sneak into his house Thursday.

Art Ray of the Stockton Fire Department says the teen was breaking curfew and trying to get inside his home.

Ray says Herrera was trapped near the chimney bottom for about 90 minutes before emergency crews were called around 10:15 a.m. When they arrived, they could see his feet sticking out of the fireplace.

Rays says rescuers secured ropes around the teenager's wrists and pulled him up about 8 feet with the help of a firetruck ladder.

Officials say Herrera wasn't hurt and was allowed to return home after the rescue, which took about 15 minutes.

Via the Huffpost

relief...

2011-12-17T08:13:00.004-05:00

Sometimes I'm just a ninny about getting nervous. For no reason. The Christmas dinner party was fine, there were just two other couples and the three colleagues are very talkative--regaling us with stories of work mishaps. And I wasn't over-dressed.

saturday 9

2011-12-17T08:07:00.003-05:00

I Will Survive

1. What in the 2011 has proved to you that you are a survivor? I've had a challenging couple of years professionally--so it's nice to have smoothed out a lot of those issues and been proactive and involved in changing my perspective and attitude

2. Have you ever stayed online for a very long time waiting for someone? no

3. Are REALLY ready for the holidays? no, not REALLY

4. Did you have an imaginary friend as a kid? no, I had a teddy bear

5. What niche network do you watch the most? Bravo

6. Have you ever seen the ocean? I have been in the Atlantic, Pacific, Caribbean, Mediterranean and North Sea

7. Have you ever been hospitalized? yes, once, I am lucky to be alive

8. What do you think of the US Republican candidates for president? not much, actually

9. Could you imagine life without a computer? nope, and I hope I don't have to, unless it's something better!

friday fill-ins

2011-12-16T21:47:00.005-05:00

Join the fun here!

1. Sleigh bells ring are you listening.

2. It's coming on Christmas, they're cutting down trees Putting up reindeer and singing songs of joy and peace.

3. You're a mean one Mr. Grinch.

4. Father Christmas give us some money
We'll beat you up if you make us annoyed.

5. Silent night holy night, all is calm, all is bright.

6. All I want for Christmas is you!

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to a Christmas dinner, tomorrow my plans include the Breakfast Club and Sunday, I want to get some shopping done!