When I set up a meeting or appointment with someone I show up on time, and usually at least 1o minutes early. I expect to wait those 10 minutes, I don't expect to be seen early (but if you can great). I don't even expect to be seen right at the appointed time, I don't mind waiting a few minutes.
What I hate is when I show up, the receptionist has to track the person I'm supposed to meet down. When found he/she is at another meeting, away from the office and will be another 30 - 40 minutes. I especially hate this when the last time I met with the same person he was 30 minutes late.
Want to know what makes it worse...When I come back an hour later and this person still isn't in the office and hasn't bothered to call me or the receptionist to tell me I should just head home because he isn't going to make it back. All this should be happening with extreme amounts of groveling for forgiveness because I had to drive 30 minutes to get to the office and now have to fight traffic all the way home without having accomplished a thing.
It's even worse when 2 hours after the appointed meeting time, I still haven't gotten a phone call explaining to me WHY I HAD TO DRIVE ALL THE WAY TO HIS OFFICE FOR NOTHING~
Maybe I need to find someone else to do my refi?
Wednesday, July 26, 2006
Tuesday, July 25, 2006
Rock Star
Last summer I was absolutely glued to the TV for Rock Star: INXS. I mean I would get upset if M expected me to miss a night. This year...not so much. I really find the talent lacking. There are a few perks to watching, Dave Navarro and Tommy Lee, but other than that...whatever.
Monday, July 24, 2006
The Great Wall
On my first full day in China one of the many things we did was visit the Great Wall. This was one of the highlights of the trip. To walk on a structure that was built before the US existed was so amazing. And to think of the fact that they didn't have the technology available today...WOW!
The climb was a bit difficult. The steps were very rustic and did not follow a standard rise/tread pattern. So you might have several normal size steps then one huge step. This really wasn't a problem on the way up...but on the way down, whoa! The grade of the climb was also very steep, again not bad going up, very scary going down.
If given the chance I would totally climb the wall again. In fact if we would have had more time, I would have climbed higher. I may not have made it to the top, but I can say that I made it high enough to be considered a hero, according to our guide, Richard.
The views from the wall were spectacular! I could not believe how green China is. It is greatly attributed to the humidity. And let me tell you, was it humid.
The tower we climbed to is just below the one you see in the center top. They kind of blend together.
Here is a picture of the group of us who actually made it to this level. If we look drippy it's because we just climb a bucket load of stairs in 90 degree weather with at least 90% humidity. We were drippy, but it was so worth it.
Thursday, July 20, 2006
in the great sceme of things
I think mom trumps daughter in the realm of funeral. Today was R's funeral and although the service was nice there were some things just plain PISSED ME OFF. First, K (R's daughter) didn't tell the minister officiating that there were two sons! Second, she didn't tell the minister there was a fiance! My family was so offended, at first M told me not to say anything to the minster (he knows how I can be when it comes to my mom), but when other people mentioned it after I had to say something. I was nice, I just walked up to him and said..."excuse me, I just wanted to let you know that R was engaged to be married...to my mom!" He didn't even know. He appoligized and then said he would recognize her at the grave side service. I am so glad I didn that because in the car, my mom said she was a little hurt that she hadn't been mentioned. She wanted everyone to know that R had plans for his future.
I talked to R's mom and sister, they are both very upset with K's behavior. So are at least one niece and nefew of R's. They think K and the boys should be giving more to my mom. In fact his mom feels they should give everything to her and let her decide who gets what. At the after reception K was already talking about how she was going to spend the money she was getting from this. Her exact words "I'm fortunate enough to have come into this money...so I'm going to law school." She was fortunate enough to have her father die! It's just sick! Here we all are grieving the loss of a great man and all she can do is talk about the money. I could go on and on about the little things that she did to make this day even harder....but I won't. But to give you an indication of her...someone stoped the minister and mentioned that R had two sons and one was there...the minister appreciated the information K and her "best friend" rolled their eyes. Keep in mind this is just one in the long line of things today that said she is only focused on the dollar signs.
Could someone please come and slap this girl!
I talked to R's mom and sister, they are both very upset with K's behavior. So are at least one niece and nefew of R's. They think K and the boys should be giving more to my mom. In fact his mom feels they should give everything to her and let her decide who gets what. At the after reception K was already talking about how she was going to spend the money she was getting from this. Her exact words "I'm fortunate enough to have come into this money...so I'm going to law school." She was fortunate enough to have her father die! It's just sick! Here we all are grieving the loss of a great man and all she can do is talk about the money. I could go on and on about the little things that she did to make this day even harder....but I won't. But to give you an indication of her...someone stoped the minister and mentioned that R had two sons and one was there...the minister appreciated the information K and her "best friend" rolled their eyes. Keep in mind this is just one in the long line of things today that said she is only focused on the dollar signs.
Could someone please come and slap this girl!
Tuesday, July 18, 2006
China, part 1
This will be the first of many posts about my trip to China. Let me start with...WOW! I had such an incredible time. It was so amazing to see things that were built before the US was even a glimmer in someone's eye.
The posts won't follow any particular order of the trip, just what I feel like talking about at the time. Tonight I feel like talking about the hotels.
I had been warned that the Chinesse 4 star hotel would be very different from the US 4 star hotel. It was...it was better. The hotels where amazing, we even stayed at a Howard Johnson, and let me tell you it was WAY better than any HoJo's have have even seen.
The only problem was the beds were like rocks! Or at least I thought this was a problem until I realized my back wasn't bothering me, even after all the walking we were doing. My back has bothered me more since getting home than it did the entire trip. There must really be something to those rock hard beds.
Every hotel also had silk comforters. Those are amazing. I didn't buy any while in China, but plan to if I ever go back. I won't buy them here, they only cost about $60 there.
Here are the rooms I stayed in...
Bejing
Suzhou
Hangzhou
Shanghai
The posts won't follow any particular order of the trip, just what I feel like talking about at the time. Tonight I feel like talking about the hotels.
I had been warned that the Chinesse 4 star hotel would be very different from the US 4 star hotel. It was...it was better. The hotels where amazing, we even stayed at a Howard Johnson, and let me tell you it was WAY better than any HoJo's have have even seen.
The only problem was the beds were like rocks! Or at least I thought this was a problem until I realized my back wasn't bothering me, even after all the walking we were doing. My back has bothered me more since getting home than it did the entire trip. There must really be something to those rock hard beds.
Every hotel also had silk comforters. Those are amazing. I didn't buy any while in China, but plan to if I ever go back. I won't buy them here, they only cost about $60 there.
Here are the rooms I stayed in...
Bejing
Suzhou
Hangzhou
Shanghai
Pretty nice, huh?
Sunday, July 16, 2006
!@%#^%#@
My sleep clock is completely fucked up! Between the time difference in China, R's death, the stress of the fucking theiving sons and ex-wife coming to town and hoping my mom at least gets the things she wants from his house I'm going fucking nuts.
***note the use of profanity, I must be stressed.
***note the use of profanity, I must be stressed.
Saturday, July 15, 2006
We weren't finished with him
Last night my mom's fiance, R, passed away. He's the one with the brain tumor discovered just a couple weeks ago. He had been in and out of the hospital for the past few weeks. And he died suddenly last night at home.
I just don't understand why this had to happen. And don't tell me that god has his reasons for everything. This was mean and hurtful! We weren't finished with him, my mom wasn't finished with him. They had so many plans for their future, they were so happy together. And now he's just gone. He was one of the best men I had ever met. He stood by mom mom when she got her cancer, he took her to treatment, sat with her in the hospital and made sure she was okay when the chemo made her sick. They didn't deserve to go through this, my mom doesn't deserve this. Everyone always says to pray to god for things...well, I did pray, alot...and he died anyway. He died too soon. We knew that things didn't look good, but it was sudden, and mean and hurtful.
To make matters worse, there isn't a power of attorney (the day mom was scheduled to take him to the lawyer he ended up in emergency), so she won't get anything. She is having to ask if certain things are found if she could have them, because maybe they were gifts she had bought for him. I know he would want to have more, he would want her taken care of. But there won't be a thing. And I know this isn't the important thing, but it matters. Thankfully, R's daughter K, wants my mom involved in the funeral plans, that's a good sign that maybe, just maybe, they will think of her as family when they start going through everything.
We all felt as though he was part of our family. We loved him and we weren't ready to let him go. I hadn't seen him in a week because I was in China. I saw him the day before I left. I visited in the hospital, but a short visit, I was in a rush to get home and finish getting ready to for the trip. I should have stayed and visited longer, he was kind of himself that day. He hadn't been himself for weeks. I should have visited longer, maybe I shouldn't have gone on my trip, I don't know. But I wasn't ready to let him go.
My mom had gone to lunch with a friend after spending the morning visiting with him. After lunch she wen't home to take a nap. When she got up she called and asked if he wanted more company, he said yes and seemed fine. When she arrived at his house a whole 5 minutes later, he was in the bathroom, and then he was gone. She didn't even get to see him again, she didn't get a kiss or to say "I love you".
My niece, J, was teaching him how to be a grandpa. She's on OR with her dad camping. She doesn't even know yet. It's going to devestate her. She was so excited to have Grandpa R.
It's devestated us all. We just weren't finished with him.
I just don't understand why this had to happen. And don't tell me that god has his reasons for everything. This was mean and hurtful! We weren't finished with him, my mom wasn't finished with him. They had so many plans for their future, they were so happy together. And now he's just gone. He was one of the best men I had ever met. He stood by mom mom when she got her cancer, he took her to treatment, sat with her in the hospital and made sure she was okay when the chemo made her sick. They didn't deserve to go through this, my mom doesn't deserve this. Everyone always says to pray to god for things...well, I did pray, alot...and he died anyway. He died too soon. We knew that things didn't look good, but it was sudden, and mean and hurtful.
To make matters worse, there isn't a power of attorney (the day mom was scheduled to take him to the lawyer he ended up in emergency), so she won't get anything. She is having to ask if certain things are found if she could have them, because maybe they were gifts she had bought for him. I know he would want to have more, he would want her taken care of. But there won't be a thing. And I know this isn't the important thing, but it matters. Thankfully, R's daughter K, wants my mom involved in the funeral plans, that's a good sign that maybe, just maybe, they will think of her as family when they start going through everything.
We all felt as though he was part of our family. We loved him and we weren't ready to let him go. I hadn't seen him in a week because I was in China. I saw him the day before I left. I visited in the hospital, but a short visit, I was in a rush to get home and finish getting ready to for the trip. I should have stayed and visited longer, he was kind of himself that day. He hadn't been himself for weeks. I should have visited longer, maybe I shouldn't have gone on my trip, I don't know. But I wasn't ready to let him go.
My mom had gone to lunch with a friend after spending the morning visiting with him. After lunch she wen't home to take a nap. When she got up she called and asked if he wanted more company, he said yes and seemed fine. When she arrived at his house a whole 5 minutes later, he was in the bathroom, and then he was gone. She didn't even get to see him again, she didn't get a kiss or to say "I love you".
My niece, J, was teaching him how to be a grandpa. She's on OR with her dad camping. She doesn't even know yet. It's going to devestate her. She was so excited to have Grandpa R.
It's devestated us all. We just weren't finished with him.
Tuesday, July 04, 2006
How?
How do you pack up 30 years of memories and life and move it to another state?
With a lot of pain, stress and grief.
Sunday my sister's family and I left owr homes and drove 5 hours to the middle of Nowhere, California to help our dad and his wife pack my grandmother for a move to Phoenix.
Grandma has lived in her current home for 30 years, up until 10 years ago with Grandma V (who was a gardner and carpenter). Now, this week will end an era. Almost like closing a book, at least that is the way she looks at it.
As we packed things into boxes and tried to get her to part with anything she felt as though we were ripping her life away. The smallest of items had meaning. There were empty jars, boxes and boxes of empty jars, apparently for canning, that needed to be thrown away. Tons of yard sale items that had no meaning to anyone in the family and the only meaning to her was that she could make a buck. Boxes of fabric that could not be gotten rid of.
Whether this is a by product of living in very poor times or greed we don't know. What we do know is that this is tearing her appart. She would stash things in her tiny bedroom, knowing full well we would end up in there eventually.
She bad mouthed us anytime she couldn't find something, sure we had thrown something away, something of value, only to find it in some shape or form completly different from what she had us looking for. She felt as though we were conspiring against her. This made it much harder on all of us. We were all at our wits end. We were there to help, not to hurt.
But when it really comes down to it, how do you pack up 30 years of memories and happiness? How do you let go of the "stuff" and keep what is truely important. This is hard for her. I wish there was some way to help her see that we aren't trying to tear her life from her, we are trying to tear away the clutter so the memories and precious things can shine through. That we aren't trying to close her book, but help her start her new chapter. A chapter that she can enjoy with friends and family.
*I have photos, but blogger won't let me upload them...they will come later.
With a lot of pain, stress and grief.
Sunday my sister's family and I left owr homes and drove 5 hours to the middle of Nowhere, California to help our dad and his wife pack my grandmother for a move to Phoenix.
Grandma has lived in her current home for 30 years, up until 10 years ago with Grandma V (who was a gardner and carpenter). Now, this week will end an era. Almost like closing a book, at least that is the way she looks at it.
As we packed things into boxes and tried to get her to part with anything she felt as though we were ripping her life away. The smallest of items had meaning. There were empty jars, boxes and boxes of empty jars, apparently for canning, that needed to be thrown away. Tons of yard sale items that had no meaning to anyone in the family and the only meaning to her was that she could make a buck. Boxes of fabric that could not be gotten rid of.
Whether this is a by product of living in very poor times or greed we don't know. What we do know is that this is tearing her appart. She would stash things in her tiny bedroom, knowing full well we would end up in there eventually.
She bad mouthed us anytime she couldn't find something, sure we had thrown something away, something of value, only to find it in some shape or form completly different from what she had us looking for. She felt as though we were conspiring against her. This made it much harder on all of us. We were all at our wits end. We were there to help, not to hurt.
But when it really comes down to it, how do you pack up 30 years of memories and happiness? How do you let go of the "stuff" and keep what is truely important. This is hard for her. I wish there was some way to help her see that we aren't trying to tear her life from her, we are trying to tear away the clutter so the memories and precious things can shine through. That we aren't trying to close her book, but help her start her new chapter. A chapter that she can enjoy with friends and family.
*I have photos, but blogger won't let me upload them...they will come later.
Sunday, July 02, 2006
dreams
I'm not talking about the kind that you have for your future or the future of your children. I'm talking about the kind that you have during that hour when you alarm clock went off and the time you actually wake up from said dream.
This morning I had a dream about anothe ex-boyfriend (yes, he too had become a very dear friend). We lost touch when he got married. I don't think it was because of his wife (if it was I wish he would have told me that), I think it was just life that caused us to forget to keep in touch.
Anyway, this dream...my friend C and I are at a party, a Disney party (I don't know why, she never worked there and I haven't for 11 years) and from across the room I recognize T's voice. I race over and receive a big hug and we proceed to lay on the floor and catch up (kinda, it's more like catching up and hearing the stuff I have always thought would be going on with his life at various times), during this catching up he tells me they are having a baby. I am very excited for him, he shows me the really cool theatrical lighting they are putting in the baby's room and then I wake up.
It's crazy. It could be because I have been thinking about tracking people down I don't know. I would want to get in touch with T again because he was one of my few grounding forces. He kept me in reality. I have such wonderful memories of dating him and being his friend (and when we were dating most of the time it was more like being friends). He introduced me to hockey and a great group of friends. He taught me that you could have fun anyplace and that spending time with friends and loved ones is important. Just enjoy them...they won't always be there.
T was there for me early on when my marriage was breaking up. We would talk on the phone for hours. He would help me see the brighter side, pointing out that even if it didn't work out it wouldn't be the end of the world. He was a wonderful friend and I would love to be in touch with him again.
*I have noticed a trend here...the last three entries have been about friends. I must be feeling a need right now. Now, to just figure out exactly what that need is.
This morning I had a dream about anothe ex-boyfriend (yes, he too had become a very dear friend). We lost touch when he got married. I don't think it was because of his wife (if it was I wish he would have told me that), I think it was just life that caused us to forget to keep in touch.
Anyway, this dream...my friend C and I are at a party, a Disney party (I don't know why, she never worked there and I haven't for 11 years) and from across the room I recognize T's voice. I race over and receive a big hug and we proceed to lay on the floor and catch up (kinda, it's more like catching up and hearing the stuff I have always thought would be going on with his life at various times), during this catching up he tells me they are having a baby. I am very excited for him, he shows me the really cool theatrical lighting they are putting in the baby's room and then I wake up.
It's crazy. It could be because I have been thinking about tracking people down I don't know. I would want to get in touch with T again because he was one of my few grounding forces. He kept me in reality. I have such wonderful memories of dating him and being his friend (and when we were dating most of the time it was more like being friends). He introduced me to hockey and a great group of friends. He taught me that you could have fun anyplace and that spending time with friends and loved ones is important. Just enjoy them...they won't always be there.
T was there for me early on when my marriage was breaking up. We would talk on the phone for hours. He would help me see the brighter side, pointing out that even if it didn't work out it wouldn't be the end of the world. He was a wonderful friend and I would love to be in touch with him again.
*I have noticed a trend here...the last three entries have been about friends. I must be feeling a need right now. Now, to just figure out exactly what that need is.
Friday, June 30, 2006
the god of goldfish
Today I had the wonderful opportunity to spend some time with an ex-boyfriend, who had become a friend and then we lost touch. We will just call him "the god of goldfish" (it's a long story and an old nickname).
I would say it has been 10-11 years since I have seen the god of goldfish, easy. And it was like we had seen each other a few months ago. He is a great guy and is doing very well for himself.
Many people find it either hard or inapporpriate for ex's to remain friends. I disagree, I think it can be healthy, if handled as it should be...as friends. I don't like to go around not liking people (although there are a few). I don't want to best buddies with these ex's, but I do like the occassional lunch, email or phone call. The one that just lets me know how he's doing, if he's happy and what's going on. I mean these people once held a very special place in my heart, that doesn't always just go away. And with this particular person the breakup wasn't bad, it just wasn't working.
When I tracked down the god of goldfish, I was inadvertantly connected with his brother (who goes by the same name, it's his middle and the g-o-g's first name, hence the confusion by the uncle who got my letter), but I knew this brother well so it was nice to catch up.
When I finally got the real thing I was very happy to find out that he had gotten married and his wife was expecting. The only sadness came because I hadn't been in touch sooner so I could have shared in his special moment. At this time we had exchanged emails, phone numbers and spent the greater part of an hour talking. After that it became a few emails. After almost two years I nailed him down to a lunch date, only if it was going to be okay with his wife. The last thing I want to do is cause problems for him, I mean this guy is really happy with his wife. He said she would be fine with it and today was the big day.
Four hours later I finally left his office. We had an amazing visit. I got to see pictures of all of his kids (they recently had another baby, making it 4. A step daughter, twin girls and then the baby boy), the wife, trips they had taken and various siblings I had known. We had a great meal and enjoyed catching up on the happenings of the past 10 years. I hope that this friendship can continue to grow and that I will have the opportunity to meet his wife and the kids in person.
I love reconnecting with old friends. I wish I could make it happen more often. There are so many people I would love to see or just talk to. Perhaps that would be a good goal...reconnect with at least one friend each month and make a commitment to keep in touch. What do you think?
I would say it has been 10-11 years since I have seen the god of goldfish, easy. And it was like we had seen each other a few months ago. He is a great guy and is doing very well for himself.
Many people find it either hard or inapporpriate for ex's to remain friends. I disagree, I think it can be healthy, if handled as it should be...as friends. I don't like to go around not liking people (although there are a few). I don't want to best buddies with these ex's, but I do like the occassional lunch, email or phone call. The one that just lets me know how he's doing, if he's happy and what's going on. I mean these people once held a very special place in my heart, that doesn't always just go away. And with this particular person the breakup wasn't bad, it just wasn't working.
When I tracked down the god of goldfish, I was inadvertantly connected with his brother (who goes by the same name, it's his middle and the g-o-g's first name, hence the confusion by the uncle who got my letter), but I knew this brother well so it was nice to catch up.
When I finally got the real thing I was very happy to find out that he had gotten married and his wife was expecting. The only sadness came because I hadn't been in touch sooner so I could have shared in his special moment. At this time we had exchanged emails, phone numbers and spent the greater part of an hour talking. After that it became a few emails. After almost two years I nailed him down to a lunch date, only if it was going to be okay with his wife. The last thing I want to do is cause problems for him, I mean this guy is really happy with his wife. He said she would be fine with it and today was the big day.
Four hours later I finally left his office. We had an amazing visit. I got to see pictures of all of his kids (they recently had another baby, making it 4. A step daughter, twin girls and then the baby boy), the wife, trips they had taken and various siblings I had known. We had a great meal and enjoyed catching up on the happenings of the past 10 years. I hope that this friendship can continue to grow and that I will have the opportunity to meet his wife and the kids in person.
I love reconnecting with old friends. I wish I could make it happen more often. There are so many people I would love to see or just talk to. Perhaps that would be a good goal...reconnect with at least one friend each month and make a commitment to keep in touch. What do you think?
Thursday, June 29, 2006
good friends, margaritas and carnitas
Last night I had my best friend (C) and her husband (D) over for dinner with M and I. Since C an I do the exact same thing for a living we never get to see each other during the school year. Drama teachers are crazy busy that way. The last two days we have hour long phone conversations, which has been great, but considering we live less than 5 minutes from each other it doesn't make sense that we don't get together.
So, I had made my first attempt at making carnitas (which turned out very good), and knowing M and I couldn't eat all if it, I invited C and D for dinner. And much to my pleasure they were able to come.
We had a wonderful time sitting on the back patio, trying to keep Stoli out of our faces while we ate and chatted for a couple of hours. Spending this time with C & D reminded me how much I really enjoy them, as individuals and as a couple. D is the first husband of a friend were when I call to talk to her, if she isn't home he and I will talk for a good 20 minutes before I ask to have her call me.
I have know C since college. We hit it off pretty quickly and became friends right away. For the most part during that time it was a pretty casual friendship, as we got further into the direct study of Theatre Education we became closer and closer (there were only 4 Theatre Ed majors in the department). We had a lot of classes together. In fact there are a couple that I could not have passed without her help as a study buddy. And there are times where she couln't have gotten by without me knowing when all the tests and assignments were, I always had penciles and paper.
We have continued to grow our friendship over the years. She was the maid of honor in my wedding and my main support system during my divorce. She has reasured me in times of doubt regarding my decisions and helped me see how much the marriage was killing my spirit in the end. She has pointed out how much of a stronger person I am now and how I had lost myself for a long time. Through everything she hasn't pushed, but rather pointed out the facts of various situations. She is always the first person I call in a crisis and in when I have happy news.
She is passionate and insightful. She feels deeply and strongly. She is talented and artistic. She is funny, caring and understanding.
I am so thankful that I have C in my life. I can only hope that I have been as good of a friend to her as she has been to me.
So, I had made my first attempt at making carnitas (which turned out very good), and knowing M and I couldn't eat all if it, I invited C and D for dinner. And much to my pleasure they were able to come.
We had a wonderful time sitting on the back patio, trying to keep Stoli out of our faces while we ate and chatted for a couple of hours. Spending this time with C & D reminded me how much I really enjoy them, as individuals and as a couple. D is the first husband of a friend were when I call to talk to her, if she isn't home he and I will talk for a good 20 minutes before I ask to have her call me.
I have know C since college. We hit it off pretty quickly and became friends right away. For the most part during that time it was a pretty casual friendship, as we got further into the direct study of Theatre Education we became closer and closer (there were only 4 Theatre Ed majors in the department). We had a lot of classes together. In fact there are a couple that I could not have passed without her help as a study buddy. And there are times where she couln't have gotten by without me knowing when all the tests and assignments were, I always had penciles and paper.
We have continued to grow our friendship over the years. She was the maid of honor in my wedding and my main support system during my divorce. She has reasured me in times of doubt regarding my decisions and helped me see how much the marriage was killing my spirit in the end. She has pointed out how much of a stronger person I am now and how I had lost myself for a long time. Through everything she hasn't pushed, but rather pointed out the facts of various situations. She is always the first person I call in a crisis and in when I have happy news.
She is passionate and insightful. She feels deeply and strongly. She is talented and artistic. She is funny, caring and understanding.
I am so thankful that I have C in my life. I can only hope that I have been as good of a friend to her as she has been to me.
Wednesday, June 28, 2006
and the medical chaos continues
Stoli - the new blood work came back. Apparently the antibotics are doing the trick because they didn't say anything about having the very expensive ultrasound and biopsy done. The Dr just wants to continue the first antibiotic and put him on a special perscription diet and retest in a month. That makes me feel a lot better about delaying the expensive stuff.
R - My mom's fiance has finally come home, although he has to see a nuerosurgeon this week. There still isn't really any word on what type of brain tumor he has and he is still pretty confused because of the presure being put on his brain. We are all hoping for the best and that when this is all over we get the old R back, because he really is a great guy.
Mom - her final round of the "T" chemo has really knocked her down. She is feeling more tired than ever. But the chemo is done, she will finish out 52 treatments of Herceptin and have radiation, then sometime after that we should know if they killed every last cancer cell in her body. We are all staying very positive about this.
My turn - went to have my leg checked, it was supposed to be the last time. The scab came off yesterday. Now, this was not your normal scab offing...I didn't pick at it, it hadn't been flaking off for days, I just tried putting some neosporin on it and the scab just slid right off, in one piece. So, when I went to the doctor for the appointment it looked a bit raw, but felt fine. The Dr (or should I say PA) is concerned because it should be healed by now, it's been two months. She says it doesn't matter how bad the stitches were done, it should be finshed healing by now. We took a culture of what she assumed was puss (I know kind of gross) and sent it out for testing. I got back next Monday to see why I'm not healed. My feeling on this, I'm not healed because my body isn't finished healing.
R - My mom's fiance has finally come home, although he has to see a nuerosurgeon this week. There still isn't really any word on what type of brain tumor he has and he is still pretty confused because of the presure being put on his brain. We are all hoping for the best and that when this is all over we get the old R back, because he really is a great guy.
Mom - her final round of the "T" chemo has really knocked her down. She is feeling more tired than ever. But the chemo is done, she will finish out 52 treatments of Herceptin and have radiation, then sometime after that we should know if they killed every last cancer cell in her body. We are all staying very positive about this.
My turn - went to have my leg checked, it was supposed to be the last time. The scab came off yesterday. Now, this was not your normal scab offing...I didn't pick at it, it hadn't been flaking off for days, I just tried putting some neosporin on it and the scab just slid right off, in one piece. So, when I went to the doctor for the appointment it looked a bit raw, but felt fine. The Dr (or should I say PA) is concerned because it should be healed by now, it's been two months. She says it doesn't matter how bad the stitches were done, it should be finshed healing by now. We took a culture of what she assumed was puss (I know kind of gross) and sent it out for testing. I got back next Monday to see why I'm not healed. My feeling on this, I'm not healed because my body isn't finished healing.
Monday, June 26, 2006
the frustrations of medicine
Last week (Wednesday or Thursday, I can't remember) my mom's fiance, R, had to be taken to the hospital. He was very disoriented and confused, almost in a coma type state. He is diabetic and his blood sugar was high, but apparently that wasn't causing the problem.
It has taken until yesterday for them to figure out that he has some kind of brain tumor. That is all the information we have. And because R and my mom aren't married yet, and there isn't any paperwork stating she should be told everything, getting information is tough. R is still very confused about everything, so when the Dr. tells him stuff, it may not get to my mom in it's full and complete form.
We are hoping for the results on the MRI tomorrow. Although we aren't sure how we will get them because by the time my mom gets off work the Dr. has gone home and the nurses can't tell her anything. ARGH!
On a lighter note...R isn't much for following rules. On Sunday my mom went to visit him and he had already had his dinner. Well, with the state of hospital food he was still hungry. He got up, got dressed and proceeded to tell my mom he was going to get something to eat. My mom told him he couldn't just walk out of the hospital (the cafeteria was closed), his only response was "you think?" He did in fact walk out of the hospital and walk over to Denny's to have dinner with my mom. Then proceeded to talk back into the hospital, return to his room and ask the nurse for a new gown because they had taken his away.
And I always wondered how hospitals could loose patients...Now we know.
It has taken until yesterday for them to figure out that he has some kind of brain tumor. That is all the information we have. And because R and my mom aren't married yet, and there isn't any paperwork stating she should be told everything, getting information is tough. R is still very confused about everything, so when the Dr. tells him stuff, it may not get to my mom in it's full and complete form.
We are hoping for the results on the MRI tomorrow. Although we aren't sure how we will get them because by the time my mom gets off work the Dr. has gone home and the nurses can't tell her anything. ARGH!
On a lighter note...R isn't much for following rules. On Sunday my mom went to visit him and he had already had his dinner. Well, with the state of hospital food he was still hungry. He got up, got dressed and proceeded to tell my mom he was going to get something to eat. My mom told him he couldn't just walk out of the hospital (the cafeteria was closed), his only response was "you think?" He did in fact walk out of the hospital and walk over to Denny's to have dinner with my mom. Then proceeded to talk back into the hospital, return to his room and ask the nurse for a new gown because they had taken his away.
And I always wondered how hospitals could loose patients...Now we know.
Sunday, June 25, 2006
Good fun
Today C and I went to the Pantages in LA to see Joseph. I really enjoyed myself. I had not had the opportunity to see this show in the past so it was all new to me.
I am not sure if this was a traditional interpretation of Webber's work, but man was it fun. I must now own the CD, because I'm a theatre lover and must own the CD to every musical I have ever seen (except Rent, that is the biggest piece of crap ever, but that's another story).
If you don't know the play is the story of Joseph (duh!), but it has a lot of fun music and interesting costumes. It was really cool, the finale' was called "Joseph Megamix" and it was a super uptempo mix of every major song in the show and highlighted all the performers doing what they did best. I high recommend seeing Joseph if you should get the chance.
The only sad part of my day...I lost one of my favorite anklets. It was on my leg when C and left from lunch and gone by intermission. We traced back our steps but it's gone. I loved this anklet, just because it was cute, it had special meaning. M bought it for me on one of our trips to Temecula. Now, those who really know me would say "everything you own is special to you" and I would have to agree. But that's why giving me presents is so much fun...I love them, I charish them, I hold them dear to my heart and when they get damaged, lost, broken...I get upset. The item was special because you thought of me and bought me the item.
I called M and told him I lost it and that I was sad. He said to not be sad, that it gave him an excuse to buy me another something special. Oh, just another reason why I love this man.
Saturday, June 24, 2006
Call me petty...
So, last week I get an email from my former in-laws, they want to make a donation to my Avon walk fund. That's great, it's nice to see they still care a bit. They opt to mail me a check and have me send it to Avon as opposed to donating online. That's fine, online money dealings freak some people out, no biggie.
Well, I got the check today. It is a very small check (which is not the issue). It is just a check. Yep, just a check, no note saying "Hi, here's the check we said we would send. Love, R & S". N0, "Hi, here's the check. Hope your mom is doing well." No, "Here's your damn money. Thanks for leaving our son, you stupid bitch". Nothing. If they want to hate me that's fine, but include a note with your check. It's a nice thing to do!
Well, I got the check today. It is a very small check (which is not the issue). It is just a check. Yep, just a check, no note saying "Hi, here's the check we said we would send. Love, R & S". N0, "Hi, here's the check. Hope your mom is doing well." No, "Here's your damn money. Thanks for leaving our son, you stupid bitch". Nothing. If they want to hate me that's fine, but include a note with your check. It's a nice thing to do!
Friday, June 23, 2006
The juices aren't flowin'
I feel this great urge to do something crafty, but everytime I start to take some thing out to work on...I just don't feel it.
I want to scrap, can't decide on pictures, paper, colors, embelishments...nothing.
I want to make cards, can't decide on themes, paper, colors, embelishments...nada.
I want to sew, but that's a lot of work.
I want to glass (yes, I do leaded glass), can't decided on designs, colors of glass...blank.
I want to knit, anything but a scarf...unfortunately scarves are the only thing I know how to knit.
Maybe I'll just plunk myself down in front to the TV and be a veggie.
I want to scrap, can't decide on pictures, paper, colors, embelishments...nothing.
I want to make cards, can't decide on themes, paper, colors, embelishments...nada.
I want to sew, but that's a lot of work.
I want to glass (yes, I do leaded glass), can't decided on designs, colors of glass...blank.
I want to knit, anything but a scarf...unfortunately scarves are the only thing I know how to knit.
Maybe I'll just plunk myself down in front to the TV and be a veggie.
Thursday, June 22, 2006
I never thought I would be happy to say this...
I had to pick up poo!!!!!
Stoli and I went for a walk and he made a poo.
This may be TMI for some of you...but when the dog hasn't gone in 4 -5 days, it's an exciting event.
Stoli and I went for a walk and he made a poo.
This may be TMI for some of you...but when the dog hasn't gone in 4 -5 days, it's an exciting event.
Stoli Dog Update
This is the infamous Stoli Dog. He appears to be feeling a bit better. It's nice to see his personality (as annoying as it can be) coming back. But...there's always a but.
I went to pick up the second antibiotic today and insisted on seeing the Dr. not just one of his techs. The techs don't really know anything, except how to read the Dr.'s writing. I know this because they could tell me what the Dr. had written in the file, but not what any of it ment. My favorite comment today was this exchange...
Tech: His levels are elevated.
Me: What does that mean?
Tech: That all of the levels they tests are high.
At this point I wanted to scream that I knew what the word elevated ment, I don't know what that means for the dog.
Anyway, I was a bit on edge this morning I guess. So, I wait to see the vet. He was in an emergency surgery. A dog had been attacked by a coyote. Which in and of itself is strange to me...I live in Anaheim, the vet is in Fullerton, but that situation is fodder fro another blog entry. So, I waited.
When I finally saw the Dr. it wasn't Dr. G from Monday, it was the other Dr. G (to be known as Dr. G2). He was a little short with me, but it was a busy day for him. He actually showed my numbers and explained things a bit. And all in all he thinks it is Liver Disease. The results from the added blood test will make the final determination regarding the pancreatitis.
He at least had a bit more solid information. He said wait for those results to come back and see what they say. He said based on that his most likely recommendation is an ultrasound and biopsy to the liver, which is non-evasive. I told him one of my big concerns is getting this stuff taken care of before I leave in two weeks...for CHINA!!!! Can't take care of a dog from another country and I don't want M to have to deal with too much of it (although this morning as I tried to explain to him what was going on, through my tears, he told me he would do what he needed to do. He's a great guy, again stuff for another entry). Dr. G2 seemed to think the two weeks was plenty of time for us to get everything figured out.
The only thing that really bothered me was that he wouldn't tell me a prognosis or course of treatment for either case. It has me really worried about how bad it might be.
Which brings up a really big question....How much money am I willing to invest in this. Where do I draw the line? Do I refinance my house and take out equity to finance treatment (I know someone who did this)? Do I take the cheap route? Do I put the dog down (not top on my list, I kinda like the maniac)?
Where do you draw the line with a pet? Even if you consider the pet a part of the family.
Wednesday, June 21, 2006
My poor puppy
Sunday I had my dad, his wife (C), my sister (K), her husband (M2), my niece (J), my boyfriend (M1), and his daughters (L & B) over for a BBQ. Every thing was great, we grilled the biggest piece of meat I have ever seen (and O-bone roast), and it was yummy! We all had a great time, except Stoli, who just lied on the patio right next to the grill. Now, who has EVER seen a dog lie next to a grill and not seem the least big interested in what was on it. He didn't even what a treat!
Because of this behavior from a normally frantic, crazy, maniac dog I called the vet, who said bring him in. So I did. J, M1 and I went to see Dr. G about a very sad dog. Although by this time he was acting a bit more like himself. Almost $200 later I had some antibiotics and no real information other than he wasn't running a fever and he has slight ear infection. Not to mention this incident helped bring to my attention that I hadn't had to scoop the backyard in several days, not a bad problem to have, except it means I have a sick dog (and who wants that).
Today I found out that poor Stoli has either pancreatitis (spelling here?) or liver disease. Oh, and that they want to run more blood tests, do x-rays and give him another antibiotic. I okayed the antibiotic and the next blood test. I figured that was enough money until I have a chance to actually talk to the vet and not the cute girl who answer the phone and can't answer a question without asking someone.
Tomorrow I will pick up the antibiotic and do so question asking in person tomorrow. From what I could learn online both of these conditions can be treated with drugs and bland diet if caught early enough. I figure the longest he could have been sick is a few days before Sunday. And actually on Saturday L & B were playing with him and he seemed perfectly fine. The obvious symptoms seemed to have shown up on Sunday. Except maybe the "pile" thing, that could be a couple of days longer.
And do you know how hard to it is to tell how much a dog who doesn't eat much to begin with is actually eating? They asked when the last time he eat was, and I can only remember filling the bowl on either Thursday or Friday. He has this thing where he just eats a few bites at a time, so it doesn't matter if I fill the bowl or just put a cup or two in, I might not have to put food in the next day, because the dog just doesn't eat much. It freaks people out when they dog sit for me. He will go 3 - 4 days without appearing to have eaten a bite and then the minute I walk in the door, he eats. He has done this since the day I got him.
Okay, I'm rambling now. I am going to go and check on my buddy, give him his meds and then watch "Must Love Dogs". Ironic timing for that to be on the Netflix list.
Because of this behavior from a normally frantic, crazy, maniac dog I called the vet, who said bring him in. So I did. J, M1 and I went to see Dr. G about a very sad dog. Although by this time he was acting a bit more like himself. Almost $200 later I had some antibiotics and no real information other than he wasn't running a fever and he has slight ear infection. Not to mention this incident helped bring to my attention that I hadn't had to scoop the backyard in several days, not a bad problem to have, except it means I have a sick dog (and who wants that).
Today I found out that poor Stoli has either pancreatitis (spelling here?) or liver disease. Oh, and that they want to run more blood tests, do x-rays and give him another antibiotic. I okayed the antibiotic and the next blood test. I figured that was enough money until I have a chance to actually talk to the vet and not the cute girl who answer the phone and can't answer a question without asking someone.
Tomorrow I will pick up the antibiotic and do so question asking in person tomorrow. From what I could learn online both of these conditions can be treated with drugs and bland diet if caught early enough. I figure the longest he could have been sick is a few days before Sunday. And actually on Saturday L & B were playing with him and he seemed perfectly fine. The obvious symptoms seemed to have shown up on Sunday. Except maybe the "pile" thing, that could be a couple of days longer.
And do you know how hard to it is to tell how much a dog who doesn't eat much to begin with is actually eating? They asked when the last time he eat was, and I can only remember filling the bowl on either Thursday or Friday. He has this thing where he just eats a few bites at a time, so it doesn't matter if I fill the bowl or just put a cup or two in, I might not have to put food in the next day, because the dog just doesn't eat much. It freaks people out when they dog sit for me. He will go 3 - 4 days without appearing to have eaten a bite and then the minute I walk in the door, he eats. He has done this since the day I got him.
Okay, I'm rambling now. I am going to go and check on my buddy, give him his meds and then watch "Must Love Dogs". Ironic timing for that to be on the Netflix list.
Tuesday, June 20, 2006
I DID IT!!!!!
I reached my Avon walk goal, and have infact exceeded what I wanted to do. I am so excited to have raised so much money to help such a wonderful cause. Perhaps 0ne day no one will have to hear the words "You have breast cancer."
If you are interested in donating to my walk fund, please go to www.avonwalk.org. My participant number is 661411, if you click on donate you should be able to find my participant page with the number. If you want to donate, but don't like to do things like that on line, let me know and I can send you the paperwork to write a check.
If you chose to donate, THANK YOU!!!! You will be helping so many people. The money doesn't just go to research, it also helps those who are underserved and don't have insurance to cover the costs.
Once again, let's thank the efforts of all who make this their charity and cause of choice. It really does make a difference.
If you are interested in donating to my walk fund, please go to www.avonwalk.org. My participant number is 661411, if you click on donate you should be able to find my participant page with the number. If you want to donate, but don't like to do things like that on line, let me know and I can send you the paperwork to write a check.
If you chose to donate, THANK YOU!!!! You will be helping so many people. The money doesn't just go to research, it also helps those who are underserved and don't have insurance to cover the costs.
Once again, let's thank the efforts of all who make this their charity and cause of choice. It really does make a difference.
Saturday, June 10, 2006
The close of a year
Last night was the first ever Drama Banquet for my school. This is a big deal because the drama department had started to become an after thought for most of the kids at the school before last year when I started there. The fact that I have been able to get kids fired about about theatre in two years is just way cool.
Anyway, we had our banquet, it was small, under 40 people, but boy did we have a good time. I MCed the entire thing, because it was a first and I didn't want to try to train kids how to MC a banquet before the event. Now, keep in mind, I am a silly person not necessarily a funny person, so this must have been torture for some people, but they were kind and laughed with me (maybe they were laughing at me later, but at least not in front of me). We gave 7 awards, best actor and actress in each show, best cameo performances in the musical, tech awards and of course a Spirit of Drama award (more on that one), and of course everyone got an achievement award. We didn't want anyone to go home empty handed, we even gave one to the little blonde girl who until she asked if she could come I didn't know even though she eats lunch in my class everyday with the drama kids. Everyone had a great time.
Most of the awards are pretty self explanatory, but the Spirit of Drama, this is an award I created at my last school. Sometimes you have a kid who just completely embodies what being a part of the drama program is about. They are positive, always have something great to say to people, may not be involved with a show, but wants everyone to know what a good job they are doing and supports every one and every thing. They strive to build up people, not break people's spirit. They can find the good in every performance. That is what being a part of my drama department should be. I actually wish I could have given every kid in that room a Spirit of Drama award. This is one of the sweetest groups of teenagers I have ever worked with (and I have had some great kids over the years). They applauded everytime someone got their award, no one felt bad they didn't win, or at least they didn't act like it, these kids even clapped when people arrived and ran to give people hugs and make them feel excited to be at their banquet.
I even received a couple end of the year gifts, one student made me poster with pictures from the musical and said everyone needed to sign it. Another student and his mom made me a scrapbook page of the musical and mounted it on black art board and had a gold pen for every to sign the board. I don't exactly know what to do with these things (probably put them up in my class, maybe it will become a tradition) but I love them just the same. These kids have really treated me well.
I love these kids so much. Last night I was truly reminded of why I love to teach drama and why it would it be so different if I only taught English. In two years I have watched some of these kids go from painfully shy to really coming into their own. Some of those shy kids have become my biggest talents. Their personalities have really begun to shine and I am so incredibly proud of each and every one of them. I like to think that I have had a hand in helping these kids find the strength in themselves to be who they are and to know that they are great.
Anyway, we had our banquet, it was small, under 40 people, but boy did we have a good time. I MCed the entire thing, because it was a first and I didn't want to try to train kids how to MC a banquet before the event. Now, keep in mind, I am a silly person not necessarily a funny person, so this must have been torture for some people, but they were kind and laughed with me (maybe they were laughing at me later, but at least not in front of me). We gave 7 awards, best actor and actress in each show, best cameo performances in the musical, tech awards and of course a Spirit of Drama award (more on that one), and of course everyone got an achievement award. We didn't want anyone to go home empty handed, we even gave one to the little blonde girl who until she asked if she could come I didn't know even though she eats lunch in my class everyday with the drama kids. Everyone had a great time.
Most of the awards are pretty self explanatory, but the Spirit of Drama, this is an award I created at my last school. Sometimes you have a kid who just completely embodies what being a part of the drama program is about. They are positive, always have something great to say to people, may not be involved with a show, but wants everyone to know what a good job they are doing and supports every one and every thing. They strive to build up people, not break people's spirit. They can find the good in every performance. That is what being a part of my drama department should be. I actually wish I could have given every kid in that room a Spirit of Drama award. This is one of the sweetest groups of teenagers I have ever worked with (and I have had some great kids over the years). They applauded everytime someone got their award, no one felt bad they didn't win, or at least they didn't act like it, these kids even clapped when people arrived and ran to give people hugs and make them feel excited to be at their banquet.
I even received a couple end of the year gifts, one student made me poster with pictures from the musical and said everyone needed to sign it. Another student and his mom made me a scrapbook page of the musical and mounted it on black art board and had a gold pen for every to sign the board. I don't exactly know what to do with these things (probably put them up in my class, maybe it will become a tradition) but I love them just the same. These kids have really treated me well.
I love these kids so much. Last night I was truly reminded of why I love to teach drama and why it would it be so different if I only taught English. In two years I have watched some of these kids go from painfully shy to really coming into their own. Some of those shy kids have become my biggest talents. Their personalities have really begun to shine and I am so incredibly proud of each and every one of them. I like to think that I have had a hand in helping these kids find the strength in themselves to be who they are and to know that they are great.
Tuesday, June 06, 2006
I'M DONE!
Not literally, I still have 9 days to go...but mentally I am done, I am on the brink of drop kicking a student out the door. It's a very sad state of things. I love my job, I love my school, I am fed up with the kids. I think it's the question "What can I do to bring up my grade?" How about the novel concept of YOUR WORK!!!!!!
Friday, June 02, 2006
I was just thinking...
in today's overly politically correct society why is it still okay to make fun of blondes? I was watching TV this morning and saw the new Philly Cream Cheese commercial, the one with the angels and they accidently mix their Philly and Jam together (like the old "You got peanut butter on my chocolate...You got chocolate in my peanut butter"). Apparently this is a good idea, to have jam in the cream cheese, and the blonde angel wonders where they came up with the idea at the end of the commercial. This gets a "look" from the brunette angel.
If this used any other race of people as the stupid one everyone would be up in arms and going all crazy...but put a blonde in the idiot role and you have a good thing. I just don't get it.
If this used any other race of people as the stupid one everyone would be up in arms and going all crazy...but put a blonde in the idiot role and you have a good thing. I just don't get it.
As a blonde I am not offended, I just don't get it.
Wednesday, May 31, 2006
Sunday, May 21, 2006
And the curtain closes...
It is finally over...Charlie Brown closed last night. Even with the difficulties I had with the VD the show came off beautifully. I am so proud of my babies (not a senior in the bunch). They did a great job.
We were adjudicated last night for what is the equivalent of the Tony Awards for high school musicals. And the judges seemed to really like the show. That makes me really happy. Although my school is over 100 years old and used to have a huge, thriving theatre program they have never been involved with this awards program. So I was very happy to hear such good things from the judges, especially with such a young cast.
My Snoopy, who is just amazing, her mom doesn't like her doing theatre. Well, much to our surprise, mom was very proud of Snoopy, and even shed a few tears. That's one of the things I love about my job. When family finds out something about their kid that only I knew up until the show opened. Hopefully this experience will allow this girl to audition again next year (mom had previously said no more shows).
So, now I say farewell to Charlie Brown and move on to the next adventure...The Crucible maybe?
We were adjudicated last night for what is the equivalent of the Tony Awards for high school musicals. And the judges seemed to really like the show. That makes me really happy. Although my school is over 100 years old and used to have a huge, thriving theatre program they have never been involved with this awards program. So I was very happy to hear such good things from the judges, especially with such a young cast.
My Snoopy, who is just amazing, her mom doesn't like her doing theatre. Well, much to our surprise, mom was very proud of Snoopy, and even shed a few tears. That's one of the things I love about my job. When family finds out something about their kid that only I knew up until the show opened. Hopefully this experience will allow this girl to audition again next year (mom had previously said no more shows).
So, now I say farewell to Charlie Brown and move on to the next adventure...The Crucible maybe?
Thursday, May 18, 2006
Ten Things
10 Things I love About Opening Night...
10. The kids are all amped and excited.
9. Everything is ready...no more sets to build, props to buy or costumes to make.
8. I finally get reimbursed for all monies spent.
7. The air in my classroom is electric.
6. Baby socks...a tradition I started with the first play I ever directed, everyone gets a baby sock on opening night because nothing bad can happen when you have something so cute with you.
5. Telling parents how wonderful I think their kids are.
4. The look on some parents faces when I tell them how wonderful their kids are.
3. Tech kids getting as excited as the actors.
2. The Hugs...I get lots of great kid hugs on opening night.
and the number 1 thing I love about opening night...
The look on the kids faces during curtain call. They have never looked prouder of themselves than they do at that moment. That is the moment I live for.
10. The kids are all amped and excited.
9. Everything is ready...no more sets to build, props to buy or costumes to make.
8. I finally get reimbursed for all monies spent.
7. The air in my classroom is electric.
6. Baby socks...a tradition I started with the first play I ever directed, everyone gets a baby sock on opening night because nothing bad can happen when you have something so cute with you.
5. Telling parents how wonderful I think their kids are.
4. The look on some parents faces when I tell them how wonderful their kids are.
3. Tech kids getting as excited as the actors.
2. The Hugs...I get lots of great kid hugs on opening night.
and the number 1 thing I love about opening night...
The look on the kids faces during curtain call. They have never looked prouder of themselves than they do at that moment. That is the moment I live for.
Tuesday, May 16, 2006
The saga continues...
Show opens on Thursday, VD left rehearsal today at 6:30ish. This is the same man who wants me to put "Performing Arts Department" on all the stuff associated with the show. So, right now he and I are both playing the passive aggressive card (it's really not working for either of us). He wants "PAD" on stuff, I figure when he starts to take on more responsibility for the show, then I will change what I do. But I guess I should tell him that.
Most of the kids are on my side. I have talked to the principal, I went seeking advice and somehow it has turned in to him talking to the VD....which has me a little scared. I need to learn to deal with this stuff myself. Maybe I will tell the principal to not do it.
ARGH....someone give me some moxie! Please!!!!!
Most of the kids are on my side. I have talked to the principal, I went seeking advice and somehow it has turned in to him talking to the VD....which has me a little scared. I need to learn to deal with this stuff myself. Maybe I will tell the principal to not do it.
ARGH....someone give me some moxie! Please!!!!!
Sunday, May 07, 2006
This and that...
Why is it that after you pay upwards of $50.00 to attend an event you still have to pay to park your car? I wondered this as I forked out $8.00 to let my car sit for two hours in a parking structure. It just makes the mind reel...the structure has been there for years, there are performances at the theatre almost every day for the entire year, it has to be paid for by now. The attendants don't really need to be in there, they don't direct traffic anyway. WHY AM I PAYING TO LET MY CAR SIT SOMEPLACE. Could someone please explain this concept to me.
I went to my first ballet last night. Sylvia performed by American Ballet Theatre. It was really good. I enjoy watching the amazing talents. If you have never been to the ballet and like stuff like that I recommend it. The strength these performers have is amazing.
On the opposite end of the spectrum I am going to a hockey game today. It's playoff season and a really good friend of mine, L, is a huge Ducks fan (I prefer the Kings myself), so I have found myself attending Ducks games during the playoffs. It's great fun and you get to see some great hockey.
The play opens in less than two weeks. I don't have all my costumes because I am waiting for them to come in from another school. I will call that teacher today to make sure I can get them on Monday, I don't want that last minute scramble. The rest of this weekend has been spend painting baseball hats to look like they are hand drawn, buying props and layin out the program. Ah, the joys of being a high school theatre teacher.
I went to my first ballet last night. Sylvia performed by American Ballet Theatre. It was really good. I enjoy watching the amazing talents. If you have never been to the ballet and like stuff like that I recommend it. The strength these performers have is amazing.
On the opposite end of the spectrum I am going to a hockey game today. It's playoff season and a really good friend of mine, L, is a huge Ducks fan (I prefer the Kings myself), so I have found myself attending Ducks games during the playoffs. It's great fun and you get to see some great hockey.
The play opens in less than two weeks. I don't have all my costumes because I am waiting for them to come in from another school. I will call that teacher today to make sure I can get them on Monday, I don't want that last minute scramble. The rest of this weekend has been spend painting baseball hats to look like they are hand drawn, buying props and layin out the program. Ah, the joys of being a high school theatre teacher.
Friday, May 05, 2006
They finally get it...
My freshmen are understanding Romeo and Juliet! I am so excited. I didn't have to explain everything in the beginning of Act 2. You don't know what an accomplishment for these kids this is. Many of them are ELD or ELD transitional, they have a hard time with the literature sometimes. This made my "feel like jumping" day just a little bit better.
Ever feel like jumping?
Boy am I sounding like a whine baby right now. But then again a month's worth of insomnia will do that to a girl.
Today I found out that M can't do my lighting like planned. Now, why would you tell someone you could do something and then not tell your employer you need the day off. (This is not the first time he has done this by the way).
Now, I could do the lighting myself, I'm not very good at it, but I know what I'm doing. I just really don't like the 30-foot, broken ladder. I have sent out the battle cry of drama teachers everywhere - HELP! Hopefully someone will be able to come in and lend a hand.
I am not really mad at M about this. It is really more of a frustration...don't tell me you can do something and just hope your schedule doesn't change (this fiasco almost cost me $200 because I was supposed to rent a scissor lift-good thing I had waited until today). He did this with both of my cousin's weddings. He didn't bother to take the days off work, he just hoped he would be off after my RSVP that we were both coming. He had to come 1 1/2 hours late to one and left the other early. Now, that just makes me look bad, mainly because I put up with it.
So at this point in my day (and it's early) I feel like jumping off the theatre building. The kids told me to wait two weeks, until the show is over. The don't trust that the VD will show up to get them through it if I die. Gotta love the support.
Today I found out that M can't do my lighting like planned. Now, why would you tell someone you could do something and then not tell your employer you need the day off. (This is not the first time he has done this by the way).
Now, I could do the lighting myself, I'm not very good at it, but I know what I'm doing. I just really don't like the 30-foot, broken ladder. I have sent out the battle cry of drama teachers everywhere - HELP! Hopefully someone will be able to come in and lend a hand.
I am not really mad at M about this. It is really more of a frustration...don't tell me you can do something and just hope your schedule doesn't change (this fiasco almost cost me $200 because I was supposed to rent a scissor lift-good thing I had waited until today). He did this with both of my cousin's weddings. He didn't bother to take the days off work, he just hoped he would be off after my RSVP that we were both coming. He had to come 1 1/2 hours late to one and left the other early. Now, that just makes me look bad, mainly because I put up with it.
So at this point in my day (and it's early) I feel like jumping off the theatre building. The kids told me to wait two weeks, until the show is over. The don't trust that the VD will show up to get them through it if I die. Gotta love the support.
Thursday, May 04, 2006
And the saga continues
So things got worse yesterday...the VD walked out of rehearsal because of a comment made by an actor.
See, I have staged the ENTIRE play without considering the scene change music becuase it never gets played during rehearsal anyway. Adding it is easy, you just adjust the staging. Well, the kids were going from one scene to another and did it just the way I have had them doing it for 2 months, and the VD says there is scene change music that he has to get in. So, the kids exit and get ready to make the entrance again, they wait for the music to stop, and then enter. The VD said something I missed because I was making a note, the kid replied with what I had told them, the VD said something to the pianist, picked up his stuff and walked out without a word to me.
Now, I am not sure exactly what happened other than that. But it kept me up all night. Mainly because if the VD is going to act this way how am I to know what is going to happen in the next two weeks.
Before all the drama happened I was asked if there was going to be video of arial footage for the Red Baron monologue and if I had it in the budget to hire more musicans. Now, we are two weeks out...if asked about this stuff 2 or 3 weeks ago I could have done something. I had to tell the VD that I hadn't rented the extra music because I did last year and we didn't use it, HE DIDN'T REMEMBER THAT IT WAS HIM AND THE PIANIST LAST YEAR!!!!!!!!!!!! He seemed a bit angry about this. I also said there wouldn't be any arial footage. He doesn't seem to understand I don't pull this stuff out of my butt!
See, I have staged the ENTIRE play without considering the scene change music becuase it never gets played during rehearsal anyway. Adding it is easy, you just adjust the staging. Well, the kids were going from one scene to another and did it just the way I have had them doing it for 2 months, and the VD says there is scene change music that he has to get in. So, the kids exit and get ready to make the entrance again, they wait for the music to stop, and then enter. The VD said something I missed because I was making a note, the kid replied with what I had told them, the VD said something to the pianist, picked up his stuff and walked out without a word to me.
Now, I am not sure exactly what happened other than that. But it kept me up all night. Mainly because if the VD is going to act this way how am I to know what is going to happen in the next two weeks.
Before all the drama happened I was asked if there was going to be video of arial footage for the Red Baron monologue and if I had it in the budget to hire more musicans. Now, we are two weeks out...if asked about this stuff 2 or 3 weeks ago I could have done something. I had to tell the VD that I hadn't rented the extra music because I did last year and we didn't use it, HE DIDN'T REMEMBER THAT IT WAS HIM AND THE PIANIST LAST YEAR!!!!!!!!!!!! He seemed a bit angry about this. I also said there wouldn't be any arial footage. He doesn't seem to understand I don't pull this stuff out of my butt!
Wednesday, May 03, 2006
I am such a wuss...
As you all know I have been having some issues with my Vocal Director (VD). He isn't as commited to this year's musical as I would like him to be. And now on top of that I have the issue of him wanting to do a show that I am not at all interested in doing, he has already talked to kids about doing it, as precasted several roles in his head, and doesn't seem at all willing to look at other shows with me to pick something we will both like.
So, being the wuss that I am I went to my principal. Not to tattle, but to ask for advice in how to talk to the VD about this without causing stress. Because let me tell you, every time I have mentioned to him that the kids don't know the music or that I feel stress from the show because of the music, things get very tense (to the point where one kid came up to me and asked if I had said something to the VD about the music because he seemed mad).
It feels like there is always something else going on that takes priority over the musical, I don't expect it to be his life, but could he at least be aware of the rehearsal schedule and try to work around that. That's what I do, but then again I make the schedule so that's a different story.
Anyway, back to my point (did I have one?)...I talked to the principal (who loves me) and asked if he had any suggestions on how to deal with this. I like the VD, he is a great guy. But, the musical is not another venue for his chamber singers (he told them that they are they only reason he does the musical and if they weren't going to audition then why was he doing it). The principal said he would talk to him if I wanted him to, I said I don't know. I don't want to make things worse or seem like a baby. I love my job, I want to do a good job at it. I don't want to make my job miserable by the VD feeling like I had to go over his head to get my way. It's not my way I want...I want us to work together so we can both enjoy working on the musical.
ARGH!!!!! Any suggestions on how to approach someone you respect about something you drastically disagree on and is really important to you? Help please!
So, being the wuss that I am I went to my principal. Not to tattle, but to ask for advice in how to talk to the VD about this without causing stress. Because let me tell you, every time I have mentioned to him that the kids don't know the music or that I feel stress from the show because of the music, things get very tense (to the point where one kid came up to me and asked if I had said something to the VD about the music because he seemed mad).
It feels like there is always something else going on that takes priority over the musical, I don't expect it to be his life, but could he at least be aware of the rehearsal schedule and try to work around that. That's what I do, but then again I make the schedule so that's a different story.
Anyway, back to my point (did I have one?)...I talked to the principal (who loves me) and asked if he had any suggestions on how to deal with this. I like the VD, he is a great guy. But, the musical is not another venue for his chamber singers (he told them that they are they only reason he does the musical and if they weren't going to audition then why was he doing it). The principal said he would talk to him if I wanted him to, I said I don't know. I don't want to make things worse or seem like a baby. I love my job, I want to do a good job at it. I don't want to make my job miserable by the VD feeling like I had to go over his head to get my way. It's not my way I want...I want us to work together so we can both enjoy working on the musical.
ARGH!!!!! Any suggestions on how to approach someone you respect about something you drastically disagree on and is really important to you? Help please!
Sunday, April 30, 2006
What car am I?
"You are a Mercedes SLK!You appreciate the finer things in life. You have a split personality - wild or conservative, depending on your mood. Wherever you go, you like to travel first class. Luxury, style, and fun - who could ask for more?"
Boy, am I glad I turned out to be something cute! Maybe this should be my next car, even though I was looking into buying something biodesiel (one small contribution to saving our planet).
What are you? http://www.tomorrowland.us
This weekend was good, although way too short. Went to J's soccer game, the spanked the other team. Saw Mom, she is doing great...she had an extra week off of chemo because of the whole low blood count thing. Had some success prop shoping and planted some new stuff in the yards. All, in all not bad.
Saturday, April 29, 2006
Zombie flesh and other things...
All my stitches are out, the dehissing (big doctor word for coming apart) has stopped and the white looking zombie flesh has turned black (yuck). The doctor told me he could remove the black dead skin but it is very painful, I'm in enough pain, I'll wait it out - that's what giant bandaides are for. Doctor thinks I should be able to minimize scaring, but it looks pretty bad right now, and that doesn't include the sharp shooting pain I get periodically. The price I pay for the theatre.
I have been discovered...my blog is a private thing for me. I don't tell anyone where it is or how to find it. Well, I have a very nosey student who has managed to track it down (yes, I'm talking about you, E). Now, my only hope is that he keeps it to himself, like I asked. He told me he hasn't been to it since the day he found it...which I hope is true. He is the only person now who I know face-to-face who has seen this!
The play opens in 3 weeks! YIKES!!!! The kids don't know most of the music and although the vocal director has been given copies of the schedule he still tells me he doesn't know what time rehearsals go to. I finally told the kids to just learn the music off the CD and I didn't care what the V.D. said. He can fix it later. At least they will know the music for opening night.
I have completely paid for my trip to China. I am so excited. I have never been out of the country for real (I don't count Mexico or Canada, although I know they are in reality out of the country), not to mention to a comunist country. It should make for some interesting stories.
I have been discovered...my blog is a private thing for me. I don't tell anyone where it is or how to find it. Well, I have a very nosey student who has managed to track it down (yes, I'm talking about you, E). Now, my only hope is that he keeps it to himself, like I asked. He told me he hasn't been to it since the day he found it...which I hope is true. He is the only person now who I know face-to-face who has seen this!
The play opens in 3 weeks! YIKES!!!! The kids don't know most of the music and although the vocal director has been given copies of the schedule he still tells me he doesn't know what time rehearsals go to. I finally told the kids to just learn the music off the CD and I didn't care what the V.D. said. He can fix it later. At least they will know the music for opening night.
I have completely paid for my trip to China. I am so excited. I have never been out of the country for real (I don't count Mexico or Canada, although I know they are in reality out of the country), not to mention to a comunist country. It should make for some interesting stories.
Sunday, April 23, 2006
To buy organic or not to buy...
Why is it that anything that is organic costs twice as much as the non-organic stuff? I like to buy organic. I like feeling like it is just a bit better for me than the stuff with all the pesticides and junk. But I have a hard time spending $4.00 for a half gallon of milk when I can pay $3.50 for a full gallon. I just don't get it.
Thursday, April 20, 2006
I'm a mess...
my arms are bruised, I have HUGE bandage on my leg and a small cut on my finger. I look like I have suffered some sort of abuse. The students are loving looking at my bruises...my falling off a ladder is the talk of the campus. It's really funny...everyone is all worried about me (which they should, but not for falling with the ladder).
The stiches are scheduled to come out on Monday. Although when I look at them it doesn't look like they will be ready to come out by then, it all looks pretty bad. I should post pictures of my arms...it's pretty scarey. And to top it off new bruises keep popping up. But all in all I'm healing nicely and have a really good story to tell.
On another note: why do drama students think that just because something doesn't offend them it won't offend anybody? My class is working on a playwriting project, which is really fun and the kids get to write about what they want for the most part. Today I actually had a group try to convince me to let them write a play about a girl who comes home from college a lesbian and gets disowned by her family. Now, I personally don't have an issue with the subject matter, as a public school program I can not let them use this script idea. It was really hard to get them to understand that just because it doesn't bother me and it doesn't bother them, it might bother someone.
Question: why do drama students feel they have to push every social boundry they can find?
The stiches are scheduled to come out on Monday. Although when I look at them it doesn't look like they will be ready to come out by then, it all looks pretty bad. I should post pictures of my arms...it's pretty scarey. And to top it off new bruises keep popping up. But all in all I'm healing nicely and have a really good story to tell.
On another note: why do drama students think that just because something doesn't offend them it won't offend anybody? My class is working on a playwriting project, which is really fun and the kids get to write about what they want for the most part. Today I actually had a group try to convince me to let them write a play about a girl who comes home from college a lesbian and gets disowned by her family. Now, I personally don't have an issue with the subject matter, as a public school program I can not let them use this script idea. It was really hard to get them to understand that just because it doesn't bother me and it doesn't bother them, it might bother someone.
Question: why do drama students feel they have to push every social boundry they can find?
Monday, April 17, 2006
Contrary to popular belief...
drama teachers do not defy gravity. And the curse of the "Scottish Play" is alive and well (if you know the name don't say it, if you don't too bad because I won't tell ya. My English students said it today with doing the counter-curse!).
...see the tree...see the ladder...that is where the disaster begins.
I was painting said tree for over an hour with no problems. Nice students standing at the base of said ladder to dip the paint brush for me, so I didn't have to climb to the bottom each time.
The tree was just about done, most of the kids had left, just a couple working on Snoopy's house and I decided that I would finish the tree without them.
While standing on the ladder, with paint can in one hand and brush in the other, the ladder decides it no longer wants to stand at the wall, but rather lie down at the bottom. Hence my 2 second ride to the floor. Now, if you have ever seen people go down an extention ladder in the movies it looks like a lot of fun... let me tell you IT'S NOT! It's pretty damn scarey.
So in a manner of seconds I am falling to the ground, the drumline coach, a drummer and two drama students are standing over me asking if I'm okay. I thought I was, I got up slowly, kind of took a few tentative steps, checked for blood from the nose that hit something (turns out it was probably my own hand), bended the elbows because they hit as the ladder hit the ground. All seemed to be okay, I didn't even shed a tear.
The problems started when I started to help clean up the 1/2 can of spilled green paint...my shin felt a little funny, I pulled up my pant leg and there it was in all it's glory, a cut. I retreated to my classroom to bandage myself, when I discovered this wasn't an ordinary cut, this was a gash, this had that (if you're squeemish skip to the next paragraph) fatty stuff that lives under your skin poking out. I checked with the drumline coach and it was deamed that I should go to Urgent Care.
Three stiches and a tetnis shot later I am finally home. Showered and ready to crash. By the way showering with a plastic trash bag rubber banded to your let, not fun either. I am just really glad that it wasn't a student, I am also really glad it wasn't worse. I could have broken more then the skin. The guys in urgent care said they have never had a teacher come in having fallen off a ladder...I told them they needed to spend more time with drama teachers.
So, what have we learned...
1. "Scottish Play" curse - real!
2. Drama teachers do not fly!
...see the tree...see the ladder...that is where the disaster begins.
I was painting said tree for over an hour with no problems. Nice students standing at the base of said ladder to dip the paint brush for me, so I didn't have to climb to the bottom each time.
The tree was just about done, most of the kids had left, just a couple working on Snoopy's house and I decided that I would finish the tree without them.
While standing on the ladder, with paint can in one hand and brush in the other, the ladder decides it no longer wants to stand at the wall, but rather lie down at the bottom. Hence my 2 second ride to the floor. Now, if you have ever seen people go down an extention ladder in the movies it looks like a lot of fun... let me tell you IT'S NOT! It's pretty damn scarey.
So in a manner of seconds I am falling to the ground, the drumline coach, a drummer and two drama students are standing over me asking if I'm okay. I thought I was, I got up slowly, kind of took a few tentative steps, checked for blood from the nose that hit something (turns out it was probably my own hand), bended the elbows because they hit as the ladder hit the ground. All seemed to be okay, I didn't even shed a tear.
The problems started when I started to help clean up the 1/2 can of spilled green paint...my shin felt a little funny, I pulled up my pant leg and there it was in all it's glory, a cut. I retreated to my classroom to bandage myself, when I discovered this wasn't an ordinary cut, this was a gash, this had that (if you're squeemish skip to the next paragraph) fatty stuff that lives under your skin poking out. I checked with the drumline coach and it was deamed that I should go to Urgent Care.
Three stiches and a tetnis shot later I am finally home. Showered and ready to crash. By the way showering with a plastic trash bag rubber banded to your let, not fun either. I am just really glad that it wasn't a student, I am also really glad it wasn't worse. I could have broken more then the skin. The guys in urgent care said they have never had a teacher come in having fallen off a ladder...I told them they needed to spend more time with drama teachers.
So, what have we learned...
1. "Scottish Play" curse - real!
2. Drama teachers do not fly!
Friday, April 14, 2006
Education
I will keep this short and sweet...why is that people who homeschool can say whatever they want about public education, but heaven forbid public educators say anything about homeschoolers?
Wednesday, April 12, 2006
Prayer Request...
For those of you who are the praying type...my Mom is in ICU-Isolation. Her white blood count is way down and she has a high fever. Her spirits are up...but it sounds scarey to me.
If your not the praying type, but you believe in karma, good thoughts, well wishes, whatever, please send some my mom's way. We can use all the support we can get.
Let me just say cancer sucks!
If your not the praying type, but you believe in karma, good thoughts, well wishes, whatever, please send some my mom's way. We can use all the support we can get.
Let me just say cancer sucks!
Tuesday, April 11, 2006
Just one thing...
I am loving my new living room! I love the color, I love that it is clean (by default...you have to clean to move furniture to paint). I just love it! Of course the already dark room...is now really dark.
Time to go shopping for lighting.
Time to go shopping for lighting.
Saturday, April 08, 2006
Redecorating...part 2 The Living Room
There really wasn't anything wrong with my living room...On Sunday I just got a hair that said PAINT! So I did...
Before
Before
After
All of the paint is by Waverly Home Classics. Wall color is Sandy Shell, trim is Latte, and the doors are Spanish Green.
What do you think?
And then there were 4
I have a new friend! For years I have complained that I really don't have any friends. It has been Michael, Cheryl and Gina, with various others who fade in and out. More recently it has just been Michael and Cheryl. But at my new job, I have made a fantastic new friend, Laurie. We get along great. We have so much fun together...and we laugh a lot (mainly at other people).
I really like Laurie and I am thankful that she is my friend. Now for the unexpected part...my "best work friend" from the last school I worked at was a really good friend of Laurie's when they were kids. Go figure!
I really like Laurie and I am thankful that she is my friend. Now for the unexpected part...my "best work friend" from the last school I worked at was a really good friend of Laurie's when they were kids. Go figure!
Tuesday, April 04, 2006
Redecorating...part 1 The Dinning Room
This all started when I decided it was time to really start getting ready to have contractors come out to bid on remodeling my kitchen/dinning room. What started out as a simple project - move the computer into the craft/crap/guest room - turned into a major overhaul of my house. For the 4 years I have lived in my house my dinner room has functioned as an office, with a huge desk.
The desk is commonly refered to as "Big Mambo." This picture was taken after I moved the computer. But you get the general sense of chaos that I lived with.
This is the other side of the room. Where the actual table used to live. Notice the yellow back fence...my neighbors made fun of me when I did it, but they all love it now. Beats the weathered gray color I used to have to look at.
Here is what this area of my house looks like now...
This desk came out of the craft room - it didn't have anyplace to live once the new computer desk went in, but more on that in another post.
Of course Herb needed a new place to be once "Big Mambo" left the building, so I put up this shelf...it also keeps him out of Prada's reach. Okay, for some reason, blogger won't upload the last picture - but the shelf is right above the little desk.
Now, I can actually have dinner at a dinner table, I can't wait.
Friday, March 31, 2006
BOYS....ARGH!
Why in the world does the boy think I would want him to come over when he gets off work at 10:00pm? I teach...all day. I'm tired at 10:00, in fact I am usually asleep on the coach by 8:30. I don't want to have to entertain someone at 10:00 pm. Especially when I know what type of entertainment he is looking for. I'm sorry, but having him come over just for "that" is not my idea of romance. And can I mention how offensive it is when he gets all mopey about the fact I don't want him to come over that late. Does he not get it? Apparently not. And heaven forbit you try to explain this to the boy...then everything that is wrong with the world is my fault. Feeling like "that" is the only reason he comes to see me is all in my head. Well, if it's in my head it got there somehow, I know I didn't put it there myself. And while I am bitching about this, why does he think that telling me that "this will be the last time we can "be" together" before he goes out of town is going to be a turn on? What about just hanging out before he goes out of town?
Okay, now don't get me wrong...I am not saying I do not enjoy "that" aspect of our relationship. I just don't like feeling like that is the only aspect of our relationship he is interested in. And that is exactly how I feel right now. Now, if I were to tell him that, he will say "how can that be all I'm interested in, it's been so long since we've been together." That is supposed to somehow make me feel better. All it does is piss me off. He doesn't see the lack of what he wants is a by-product of my feeling like that is all he wants. It's a big catch 22 I suppose. But the question is, how do you turn those feelings around, how do you get back to the good times when you both felt satisfied with all (or at least most) aspects of the relationship. Or have I hit a hopeless deadend?
Boys.....ARGH!
Okay, now don't get me wrong...I am not saying I do not enjoy "that" aspect of our relationship. I just don't like feeling like that is the only aspect of our relationship he is interested in. And that is exactly how I feel right now. Now, if I were to tell him that, he will say "how can that be all I'm interested in, it's been so long since we've been together." That is supposed to somehow make me feel better. All it does is piss me off. He doesn't see the lack of what he wants is a by-product of my feeling like that is all he wants. It's a big catch 22 I suppose. But the question is, how do you turn those feelings around, how do you get back to the good times when you both felt satisfied with all (or at least most) aspects of the relationship. Or have I hit a hopeless deadend?
Boys.....ARGH!
Thursday, March 30, 2006
Gotta Dance....
I FOUND A CHOREOGRAPHER!!!!!! Did I even mention I needed a choreographer? Well, I did now I have one, in fact I have two who are interested. For a month I try to find one, now I have to tell one of them I don't need them for the show. Yuck! I hate doing that.
But the good news...I have a choreographer, and it is going to piss off the vocal director. HEHEHE. He looks at the musical as a choir show, not a musical (that I think I have mentioned before).
I am looking forward to getting the kids dancing...not to mention they can't wait to be dancing.
On the set construction front...we are almost done. Although I have created some set dressing that will probably get me killed if not seriously maimed. (I'll post pictures when we're done).
The kids are having a blast, I'm trying not to stress, and almost all my leads are on a choir tour...shows goin' great.
But the good news...I have a choreographer, and it is going to piss off the vocal director. HEHEHE. He looks at the musical as a choir show, not a musical (that I think I have mentioned before).
I am looking forward to getting the kids dancing...not to mention they can't wait to be dancing.
On the set construction front...we are almost done. Although I have created some set dressing that will probably get me killed if not seriously maimed. (I'll post pictures when we're done).
The kids are having a blast, I'm trying not to stress, and almost all my leads are on a choir tour...shows goin' great.
Monday, March 27, 2006
My favorite mug
Tonight I thought I would share my favorite mug with you...There really isn't any special about this mug, except where it came from.
I had just changed teaching jobs, and had only been at the new school for about 8 months. I was enjoying the job and had a great raport with the kids. One of the kids, Lamar Thorpe, went on a study trip to Washington DC and when he returned he presented me with the mug.
It was purchased at the Arena Theatre. The pictures on the mug are from the advertisements for the two productions running at the time - two African-American Plays.
The mug may not seem like much, but I had only known the student for a short time, and he came from a family that did not have a lot of money. The fact that he thought enough of me and our relationship in the theatre to spend some of his money on this mug because he thought I would enjoy it really touched me.
I had the pleasure of working with Lamar for one more year afte that, then he
graduated and moved on to the Army (which if you knew Lamar you would understand my shock). I left that school before the next school year started, so when he got back from training he discovered I had left. Several years later I heard from Lamar, he had tracked me down. He had one question regarding theatre and didn't want an answer from anyone but me. We had a nice chat and that was the last time I heard from Lamar Thorpe.
I fondly remember those two years at San Gabriel High School. I had so many wonderful students there. The talent was raw, but fierce. So much potential, those kids truely acted from the heart in everything they did.
Thursday, March 23, 2006
oh whatever...
You ever just want to get drunk? For no reason, just feel like being drunk? I'm on my fourth glass of white wine, actually a pretty nice chard from Temecula - if you are ever there and you see this out of place sign that says Santa Margarita is open ...go there as fast as you can - this little old man retired and opened a winery. He only makes about 100 cases and when they are gone they are gone and he closes until next year. He is the last winery that has free tasting.
Speaking of free tasting - one of my favorite wineries Maurice Carrie has started charging for tasting and has taken one of my favorite wines off the tasting menu. The guys at the sister winery (Van Rokelle) said the wines where better now. Better than sewer water maybe, but not better than the wine they used to pour.
Two visits ago I discovered two new wineries, the first time I went we were the only ones in the places. Last time they were packed. Good wine travels fast. They are a bit expensive (we paid $50 for a bottle of Port - but DAMN it is good port), but they have amazing wines. One of them only pours reds, and you gotta love that. Reds are my favorite, so why am I drinking a white....oh yeah, I had to use some in cooking last week and in a another day or so I would have to dump the bottle and that would just be a waste of good wine.
If you are even in Temecula please do me a favor...DO NOT GO TO THE BIG RESORT WINERIES - THEY SUCK! You must avoid the biggies at all cost - I am not kidding, most of their wine is terrible and they are way over priced. In fact, stop at the Longs that you will see on the left side of Rancho California and make note of the wineries they carry. Go do your tasting with those in mind - and hold off on buying anything that is pretty standard until you can go back to Longs - on average about $5 less than the winery (go figure, I would think it would be cheaper at the source).
Okay here are my top picks for Temecula
1. Miremonte - my personal favorite (I belong to their wine club). Make sure you try the Opullente and the Old Vine Zin. Both are wonderful
2. Bella Vista - The Sonata is good, but not aging well, in fact I should drink my bottle soon. Try the Petite Sirah with their Campagne mixed, it is sooo good.
3. Santa Margarita - see above.
4. Filsigner - known primarily for their Gewurztraminer, but everything is pretty good.
5. Bare Foot - tastings are expensive, but well worth it. The bottles are a little pricey, but once again, an excellent wine. Not to mention the owner will be pouring for you (but probably not for much longer). This winery has only been open to the public since October 2005. Watch out for one of the horses, starts out real nice and then will head for the boobs (but that's another story).
6. Dofo - anther expensive but excellent choice. They are the last ones out on Ranch California, located in the owners garage, so becareful you might miss it.
7. Mount Palomar - The Meritage is great every year.
8. Long Shadow - especially during the summer, they have live music and BBQ. During the party they aren't doing tastings, but you can buy wine by the bottle or the glass (and those are some full glasses). They have a nice, big lawn and are very family friendly during these events.
9. Alex's Red Barn - if you are going to do Long Shadow you might as well do the Barn, they are across the road from each other. Very limited in variety, but if you like Cream Sherry, this is the place to be.
Now, don't get me wrong, there are some othe wineries that offer some good wine, these are just my favorites. They are not to be missed when I do a trip down South.
And for those of you who think the only good California Wine comes from Napa...get off your high horse and head to Temecula. Heck if you give me adavanced notice I might even join you and show you the ropes.
If you do make this trip, head to the Sizzlin' Steer for dinner (unless you are a veggie, it's a steak house). They have good steak at a great price. While you are at it, spend the weekend, hit the attique stores on Sunday, always a good time.
Wow, somehow this entry became all about my favorite place in the world, Temecula...funny how that works.
*Note I would have linked the wineries to their websites if I could figure out how to do that. Help...anyone....
Speaking of free tasting - one of my favorite wineries Maurice Carrie has started charging for tasting and has taken one of my favorite wines off the tasting menu. The guys at the sister winery (Van Rokelle) said the wines where better now. Better than sewer water maybe, but not better than the wine they used to pour.
Two visits ago I discovered two new wineries, the first time I went we were the only ones in the places. Last time they were packed. Good wine travels fast. They are a bit expensive (we paid $50 for a bottle of Port - but DAMN it is good port), but they have amazing wines. One of them only pours reds, and you gotta love that. Reds are my favorite, so why am I drinking a white....oh yeah, I had to use some in cooking last week and in a another day or so I would have to dump the bottle and that would just be a waste of good wine.
If you are even in Temecula please do me a favor...DO NOT GO TO THE BIG RESORT WINERIES - THEY SUCK! You must avoid the biggies at all cost - I am not kidding, most of their wine is terrible and they are way over priced. In fact, stop at the Longs that you will see on the left side of Rancho California and make note of the wineries they carry. Go do your tasting with those in mind - and hold off on buying anything that is pretty standard until you can go back to Longs - on average about $5 less than the winery (go figure, I would think it would be cheaper at the source).
Okay here are my top picks for Temecula
1. Miremonte - my personal favorite (I belong to their wine club). Make sure you try the Opullente and the Old Vine Zin. Both are wonderful
2. Bella Vista - The Sonata is good, but not aging well, in fact I should drink my bottle soon. Try the Petite Sirah with their Campagne mixed, it is sooo good.
3. Santa Margarita - see above.
4. Filsigner - known primarily for their Gewurztraminer, but everything is pretty good.
5. Bare Foot - tastings are expensive, but well worth it. The bottles are a little pricey, but once again, an excellent wine. Not to mention the owner will be pouring for you (but probably not for much longer). This winery has only been open to the public since October 2005. Watch out for one of the horses, starts out real nice and then will head for the boobs (but that's another story).
6. Dofo - anther expensive but excellent choice. They are the last ones out on Ranch California, located in the owners garage, so becareful you might miss it.
7. Mount Palomar - The Meritage is great every year.
8. Long Shadow - especially during the summer, they have live music and BBQ. During the party they aren't doing tastings, but you can buy wine by the bottle or the glass (and those are some full glasses). They have a nice, big lawn and are very family friendly during these events.
9. Alex's Red Barn - if you are going to do Long Shadow you might as well do the Barn, they are across the road from each other. Very limited in variety, but if you like Cream Sherry, this is the place to be.
Now, don't get me wrong, there are some othe wineries that offer some good wine, these are just my favorites. They are not to be missed when I do a trip down South.
And for those of you who think the only good California Wine comes from Napa...get off your high horse and head to Temecula. Heck if you give me adavanced notice I might even join you and show you the ropes.
If you do make this trip, head to the Sizzlin' Steer for dinner (unless you are a veggie, it's a steak house). They have good steak at a great price. While you are at it, spend the weekend, hit the attique stores on Sunday, always a good time.
Wow, somehow this entry became all about my favorite place in the world, Temecula...funny how that works.
*Note I would have linked the wineries to their websites if I could figure out how to do that. Help...anyone....
why do they lie?
Do they not think the sub will tell me what they say and do? I had to miss my period 4 class yesterday to go to a community service performance with other students...and my lovely period 4 class told the sub they didn't have to do an assignment I left because they do it while they are reading! The dorks already read the chapter I wanted the work done on! I told them the day before that they had to do it. Do they think they won't have to do the work now? What in the world were they thinking!
To make things worse I had to write 3 referals upon my return for behavior. One for a student who the last three times I have been out of class has been a pain in the sub's tooshie. I emailed him mom, he quickly denied any wrong doing...who would have guessed! Now I have to have a parent meeting to discuss his behavior (this won't be the first time). I know this kids parents are looking to send him to a private boarding school because of his behavior. I have a feeling this might just be the thing to send them over the edge.
To make things worse I had to write 3 referals upon my return for behavior. One for a student who the last three times I have been out of class has been a pain in the sub's tooshie. I emailed him mom, he quickly denied any wrong doing...who would have guessed! Now I have to have a parent meeting to discuss his behavior (this won't be the first time). I know this kids parents are looking to send him to a private boarding school because of his behavior. I have a feeling this might just be the thing to send them over the edge.
Tuesday, March 21, 2006
Collaboration
As a drama teacher collaboration is my middle name. I know how to work with others, I know how to get the job done. What I don't know how to do is tell someone they are not working well as part as a collaborative team.
Here is the deal, the vocal director I am working with has scheduled last minute rehearsals for his choir tour on days I have drama activities planned (activities that have been on the schedule for a long time). He expects me to just let the kids go, he gives them guilt because they aren't making choir their lives. I had a student tell me he was told that they leave for tour in two weeks when he told the choir director he couldn't make a rehearsal because he was at the drama competition.
How do you deal with someone like that? I like the man, I don't want to be rude, but he is scheduling things last minute with things I have had on the calendar for weeks, in some cases months.
This Saturday I am building my set. If I let all the kids go to choir practice I will have a very limited number of kids helping build (which now that I think about it might not be a bad thing). I am just tired of everyone saying..."Ms. P will let us go," "Rachael will work it out, go ahead and use the theatre," "It's just drama."
I want my program to be priority for a change!
Here is the deal, the vocal director I am working with has scheduled last minute rehearsals for his choir tour on days I have drama activities planned (activities that have been on the schedule for a long time). He expects me to just let the kids go, he gives them guilt because they aren't making choir their lives. I had a student tell me he was told that they leave for tour in two weeks when he told the choir director he couldn't make a rehearsal because he was at the drama competition.
How do you deal with someone like that? I like the man, I don't want to be rude, but he is scheduling things last minute with things I have had on the calendar for weeks, in some cases months.
This Saturday I am building my set. If I let all the kids go to choir practice I will have a very limited number of kids helping build (which now that I think about it might not be a bad thing). I am just tired of everyone saying..."Ms. P will let us go," "Rachael will work it out, go ahead and use the theatre," "It's just drama."
I want my program to be priority for a change!
Monday, March 20, 2006
Competition Season is OVER!!!!
I don't know why I call it a season it really is only two days, but it is over non the less. And we survived, rain and all.
The kids had a great time. We didn't make it to finals, but the kids are really up to the competition for next year (at least so they say). It is really hard to convince these kids that they will be competing against 68 schools, which makes about 2000 other acting students.
We saw great acting (as well as some not so great). We were pleased with who made it to finals for the most part (and absolutely stuned by some others).
In the 7 years I have attended this festival this is the first year it has rained on us. It was miserable. The school camp sites are on a grassy area, so it just yucky. My DBF went and bought me an easyup to we could try to get out of the rain at least a little bit.
There really aren't any exciting or interesting stories about festival. I am just glad it is over.
The kids had a great time. We didn't make it to finals, but the kids are really up to the competition for next year (at least so they say). It is really hard to convince these kids that they will be competing against 68 schools, which makes about 2000 other acting students.
We saw great acting (as well as some not so great). We were pleased with who made it to finals for the most part (and absolutely stuned by some others).
In the 7 years I have attended this festival this is the first year it has rained on us. It was miserable. The school camp sites are on a grassy area, so it just yucky. My DBF went and bought me an easyup to we could try to get out of the rain at least a little bit.
There really aren't any exciting or interesting stories about festival. I am just glad it is over.
Thursday, March 16, 2006
My dixie plate has not just spilled over...
it has bent in the middle and all the contents have landed hapazardly on the floor!
In the past two weeks I have forgotten appointments, missed meetings, and have yelled at little freshmen until they are all but destroyed.
I am a naturally organized person, so the fact things are falling between the cracks has me a little disturbed. And I don't like making little freshmen cry.
Things that used to be on my plate and are now on the floor...
1. My TB test is over due.
2. Missed a Site Counsel meeting.
3. Forgot to call my grandma on her birthday.
4. Lesson plans aren't done for my theatre festival tomorrow.
5. Laundry
6. Taxes aren't done.
7. Set design isn't finished (we're building next weekend).
8. Haven't ordered lumber (see #7).
9. I don't have a choreographer (we open in about 8 weeks).
I could go on and on, but I guess I really should be trying to get things done.
Wednesday, March 08, 2006
She said what?
The other day I decided to wear my retainer to school, having not worn it in several years, I got it in my head that I can correct the damage of not wearing it by starting to wear it again. So, there I am trying to hold class discussions regarding Steinbeck's Of Mice and Men, the general stuff - it was written a long time ago, they talked differently, ect.
This discussion brought up the use of the infamous "N" word. Trying to explain to high school students that in the 1930's it was common to use the word and it isn't necessarily being used in a negative sense, it was just a statement of fact - that is what the character is, just like I, their teacher, am white. The dicussion that followed was interesting, insightful and very respectful - even if the students were passionate (which in and of itself is an accomplishment). The problem came when we got into acronyms, I said "I hate acronyms" at which point the students looked shocked and started whispering, "What did she say?" "Did she say I what I think she said?"
I was very confused, so I asked them what they thought I said...This is where this gets funny, one of my favorite students, a young black man, looks at me and with great honesty says "Did you say you hate Africans?" I immediately got a look of terror and then start to laugh explaining that I said, very clearly "I hate acronyms." The entire class began to laugh, and then it was decided that I don't wear my retainer during class anymore, who knows what might accidently come out of my mouth.
This discussion brought up the use of the infamous "N" word. Trying to explain to high school students that in the 1930's it was common to use the word and it isn't necessarily being used in a negative sense, it was just a statement of fact - that is what the character is, just like I, their teacher, am white. The dicussion that followed was interesting, insightful and very respectful - even if the students were passionate (which in and of itself is an accomplishment). The problem came when we got into acronyms, I said "I hate acronyms" at which point the students looked shocked and started whispering, "What did she say?" "Did she say I what I think she said?"
I was very confused, so I asked them what they thought I said...This is where this gets funny, one of my favorite students, a young black man, looks at me and with great honesty says "Did you say you hate Africans?" I immediately got a look of terror and then start to laugh explaining that I said, very clearly "I hate acronyms." The entire class began to laugh, and then it was decided that I don't wear my retainer during class anymore, who knows what might accidently come out of my mouth.
Monday, March 06, 2006
And the Oscar goes to...
Did anyone watch the Academy Awards? There were some very disappointing things...like the best song...WHAT THE HELL WAS THAT!?!?!?!???? The was probably one of the worst things I have ever heard. Take away the fact that I already don't like rap, that has nothing to do with my shock...the song just wasn't very good.
And what is it with these pale and proud women who wear equally pale dresses? Don't they realize they are pale, maybe the need to wear a little bit of color, and gold is not the color!! I keep hearing about how awful Charlize Theron look and who wonderful Jessica Alba looked...and I just look at the people like the are nuts. Jessica Alba's dress was hideous! I would take that big green bow anyday over the fiasco Alba wore.
I thought Jennifer Gardner was gracefull when she almost fell. Very cute and a great comeback.
I didn't see but a couple of the movies nominated for anything of note, but from the previews I saw I'm not sure I agree with the best picture nomination. Crash just doesn't look that good to me. I think people like it because it is a slap-you-in-the-fact type of movie. I did see Brokeback Mountain, I really enjoyed it. Excellent acting all around, beautiful cinematography, and very skilled directing, but also not sure if it should have won best picture. That's really all I can say because I did see any thing else other than Geisha, which was beautiful, but didn't do the book justice.
Next year I really am going to have to see all the movies. I hate being so uninformed.
And what is it with these pale and proud women who wear equally pale dresses? Don't they realize they are pale, maybe the need to wear a little bit of color, and gold is not the color!! I keep hearing about how awful Charlize Theron look and who wonderful Jessica Alba looked...and I just look at the people like the are nuts. Jessica Alba's dress was hideous! I would take that big green bow anyday over the fiasco Alba wore.
I thought Jennifer Gardner was gracefull when she almost fell. Very cute and a great comeback.
I didn't see but a couple of the movies nominated for anything of note, but from the previews I saw I'm not sure I agree with the best picture nomination. Crash just doesn't look that good to me. I think people like it because it is a slap-you-in-the-fact type of movie. I did see Brokeback Mountain, I really enjoyed it. Excellent acting all around, beautiful cinematography, and very skilled directing, but also not sure if it should have won best picture. That's really all I can say because I did see any thing else other than Geisha, which was beautiful, but didn't do the book justice.
Next year I really am going to have to see all the movies. I hate being so uninformed.
Wednesday, March 01, 2006
Theft in the Drama Department....
For months I have been fundraising for my Theatre program with no problems. In the last week money and supplies have been stolen out of my room two different times.
On Thursday when I came in to drop off lesson plans for Friday I needed to get change out of the cash box to get some water and discovered all of the paper money was gone (about $40).
Today, the bag of lollipops on my desk is almost empty, yesterday it was almost full. And the money is gone from the cash box again (about $5). I am really frustrated. I have had candy and money sitting on my desk for months without a problem, now all of a sudden....I can't believe it. It is either the kids from the program who eat lunch in the room or it is the night custodians. I don't want to believe it is the guy who cleans my room, but he does often have kids helping, I think it might be them.
So, now it is time to lock down in the Theatre Department!
On Thursday when I came in to drop off lesson plans for Friday I needed to get change out of the cash box to get some water and discovered all of the paper money was gone (about $40).
Today, the bag of lollipops on my desk is almost empty, yesterday it was almost full. And the money is gone from the cash box again (about $5). I am really frustrated. I have had candy and money sitting on my desk for months without a problem, now all of a sudden....I can't believe it. It is either the kids from the program who eat lunch in the room or it is the night custodians. I don't want to believe it is the guy who cleans my room, but he does often have kids helping, I think it might be them.
So, now it is time to lock down in the Theatre Department!
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