Tom came home last night about 11:00. We were sooo tired this morning. We called the car repair shop and our Matrix was done and ready to be picked up. It looks like a new car. That's the good news. The bad news is that they had not received a check from our insurance company yet, and we had to dish out the bill on a credit card. Please pray that all of this gets worked out.
Today we are catching up trying to get ready for next week. Tom and I are working around the house and the girls are doing homework. It's funny that even this is pleasant when we are all together. I love my family.
May you all have a super weekend.
Saturday, September 29, 2007
Friday, September 28, 2007
It's finally Friday!!
This has been the longest week with Tom gone, but tonight he will be home. I am gonna give him the biggest kiss ever. I have missed him so very much. I have not only missed his presence in our home, but I have needed his help with this crazy week. Hopefully, next week will be much better.
I am still getting e-mails from people interested in the string club. It may grow and grow. I am trying not to be nervous about it, but just eat the whale one bite at a time. It's tough when I have to take my own advice.
Today I am off to third grade at Becca's school. I will be right across the hall from her, teaching her friends. It should be an awsome day as they are awsome kids.
Laura is in the kitchen trying to get ready to head out the door, so ta ta for now.
Happy day everyone.
I am still getting e-mails from people interested in the string club. It may grow and grow. I am trying not to be nervous about it, but just eat the whale one bite at a time. It's tough when I have to take my own advice.
Today I am off to third grade at Becca's school. I will be right across the hall from her, teaching her friends. It should be an awsome day as they are awsome kids.
Laura is in the kitchen trying to get ready to head out the door, so ta ta for now.
Happy day everyone.
Thursday, September 27, 2007
It takes a village.
Yesterday was a busy one. I took Laura to school at 0 dark hundred after going to bed at midnight. I came home from this, took a shower, gave a violin lesson and took kids to school and began my day as a sub. for the Tag teacher.
The sub. job yesterday was light. I had some down time, so I got to help out Becca's teacher. Becca was thrilled that I could be in her room and the teacher was thrilled because she needed help. I was thrilled that I could give Becca some attention after the previous evening.
I worked until 12:30 and then came home to prepare for my first orchestra club meeting. I have to say, I was a little nervous. I wasn't sure what to expect.
When I arrived at the middle school, I was met by a high school student who came to volunteer. She was followed by the Principal of Becca's elementary school. She came to support me. I was truly honored by her presence. I was also a little nervous as she is giving me conducting lessons. Neat, neat lady.
We went down to the room where we are meeting. There, I was met by the conductor of the high school orchestra that this club will feed into. There was an orchestra booster parent from the high school and the vice pricipal of the middle school came in as well. There were fifteen kids in the room. Yesterday at 3:00, I was a bit nervous. I kept having those same old thoughts pass in my head that said "Can you really do this? What do you think you are doing? Why do you think you can lead a whole string club? You are not a teacher. What if all these people in this room think the same?". I looked again and realized that every adult in that room was supporting me. They were not critizing me. They were giving me a hands up and I was truly blessed. We are all trying to help this club and fill a need in our district. It takes a village to help kids and I was looking at my village cheifs. I wasn't afraid anymore, but was humbled that these people would come.
The kids are the whole point of this club. I had 15 of them and they varied greatly in their musical abilities. I had a perfect string quartet of advanced kids. I will have to give them quartet music in order to keep them challenged. The rest were pretty much beginners with a couple of kids in between. This is who my heart goes out to. Some of these kids had not played their instrument since elementary school because there was no opportunity. This is the whole reason I am there. I saw three kids go from almost tears to smiles and pride, by the time we left. These are the kids that I want to reach and help them keep going. I have to. I was once one of those kids.
When I was in the sixth grade, my violin teacher reached out to me and my life was never the same. I have to do that for these kids. I owe her big time, but I think she is no longer around. Since I can't say thanks to her, I will pass on her gift of love, compassion and of course, music.
The sub. job yesterday was light. I had some down time, so I got to help out Becca's teacher. Becca was thrilled that I could be in her room and the teacher was thrilled because she needed help. I was thrilled that I could give Becca some attention after the previous evening.
I worked until 12:30 and then came home to prepare for my first orchestra club meeting. I have to say, I was a little nervous. I wasn't sure what to expect.
When I arrived at the middle school, I was met by a high school student who came to volunteer. She was followed by the Principal of Becca's elementary school. She came to support me. I was truly honored by her presence. I was also a little nervous as she is giving me conducting lessons. Neat, neat lady.
We went down to the room where we are meeting. There, I was met by the conductor of the high school orchestra that this club will feed into. There was an orchestra booster parent from the high school and the vice pricipal of the middle school came in as well. There were fifteen kids in the room. Yesterday at 3:00, I was a bit nervous. I kept having those same old thoughts pass in my head that said "Can you really do this? What do you think you are doing? Why do you think you can lead a whole string club? You are not a teacher. What if all these people in this room think the same?". I looked again and realized that every adult in that room was supporting me. They were not critizing me. They were giving me a hands up and I was truly blessed. We are all trying to help this club and fill a need in our district. It takes a village to help kids and I was looking at my village cheifs. I wasn't afraid anymore, but was humbled that these people would come.
The kids are the whole point of this club. I had 15 of them and they varied greatly in their musical abilities. I had a perfect string quartet of advanced kids. I will have to give them quartet music in order to keep them challenged. The rest were pretty much beginners with a couple of kids in between. This is who my heart goes out to. Some of these kids had not played their instrument since elementary school because there was no opportunity. This is the whole reason I am there. I saw three kids go from almost tears to smiles and pride, by the time we left. These are the kids that I want to reach and help them keep going. I have to. I was once one of those kids.
When I was in the sixth grade, my violin teacher reached out to me and my life was never the same. I have to do that for these kids. I owe her big time, but I think she is no longer around. Since I can't say thanks to her, I will pass on her gift of love, compassion and of course, music.
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
Homework
I know everyone is tired of hearing me complain about Tom being gone, but I just need to vent this morning. This is the closest thing to adult conversation that I am going to get.
Laura was loaded with homework last night. We knew this was coming, but what I didn't know was that she had this HUGE Spanish report due. The kids were given three days and a weekend to get this done during class. Laura was given a mentally handicapped partner. This meant that she did all the work instead of it being divided evenly among two kids. I hope the teacher realized this. When she announced that she was done with the packet, I took a look at what she had. She was missing 9 parts of the assignment. I saw red and told her that in "No Way" was she done. I made her do it, even with tears (from the both of us). The report is done and so am I, but I start my string class and sub today. Yeah, I am a little grumpy and a lot tired.
I have to get a grip as I am the adult in this situation. We didn't have time for the hot tub last night, but I know I better get there tonight, for the kid's sake.
Tonight she has to finish a book report and study for a big humanities test. Did I mention that I wish Tom were home?
Laura was loaded with homework last night. We knew this was coming, but what I didn't know was that she had this HUGE Spanish report due. The kids were given three days and a weekend to get this done during class. Laura was given a mentally handicapped partner. This meant that she did all the work instead of it being divided evenly among two kids. I hope the teacher realized this. When she announced that she was done with the packet, I took a look at what she had. She was missing 9 parts of the assignment. I saw red and told her that in "No Way" was she done. I made her do it, even with tears (from the both of us). The report is done and so am I, but I start my string class and sub today. Yeah, I am a little grumpy and a lot tired.
I have to get a grip as I am the adult in this situation. We didn't have time for the hot tub last night, but I know I better get there tonight, for the kid's sake.
Tonight she has to finish a book report and study for a big humanities test. Did I mention that I wish Tom were home?
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Single Parenting Day 2
Last night was crazy. I taught until 7. Laura had homework that lasted from 4:30 - 8:30. It was just too much. We found ourselves eating dinner at 8:30 and we all needed a little time to relax. We got in the hot tub from 9:00-9:15. That was 15 minutes of pure heaven.
It was cooler last night and there was steam rising from the water in the tub. The girls thought this was way cool. We were in a mental frenzy when we first got in, but by the time we got out, everyone felt better. I love that when we get in, there is no T.V. or distractions. It is just us being a family, catching up on the day and relaxing. I want my girls to know that taking time to relax is important. I don't want them to be lazy, but I want them to learn that relaxing is good. I have a hard time with this and I hope the tub will help. Here is a quote by Salman Rushdie that appropriately describes how I feel about the tub purchase.
"In this world without quiet corners, there can be no easy escapes...from hullabaloo, from terrible, unquiet fuss."
The tub sits in the "corner" of our patio.
Tom is enjoying his class in Virginia. He said it moves fast, but is very good. There is no hot tub at his hotel, but it is hot outside. I think he REALLY wants to be home and we REALLY want him to come home. I miss him and realize what a HUGE help he is to me and my busy life.
Today, I have to take Becca to the dentist and prepare for my first string club meeting tomorrow. I am excited and a little nervous at the same time. I am not sure how to prepare. I might have just a couple of kids, or I might have many, many. I just don't know. Whatever will be, will be.
It was cooler last night and there was steam rising from the water in the tub. The girls thought this was way cool. We were in a mental frenzy when we first got in, but by the time we got out, everyone felt better. I love that when we get in, there is no T.V. or distractions. It is just us being a family, catching up on the day and relaxing. I want my girls to know that taking time to relax is important. I don't want them to be lazy, but I want them to learn that relaxing is good. I have a hard time with this and I hope the tub will help. Here is a quote by Salman Rushdie that appropriately describes how I feel about the tub purchase.
"In this world without quiet corners, there can be no easy escapes...from hullabaloo, from terrible, unquiet fuss."
The tub sits in the "corner" of our patio.
Tom is enjoying his class in Virginia. He said it moves fast, but is very good. There is no hot tub at his hotel, but it is hot outside. I think he REALLY wants to be home and we REALLY want him to come home. I miss him and realize what a HUGE help he is to me and my busy life.
Today, I have to take Becca to the dentist and prepare for my first string club meeting tomorrow. I am excited and a little nervous at the same time. I am not sure how to prepare. I might have just a couple of kids, or I might have many, many. I just don't know. Whatever will be, will be.
Monday, September 24, 2007
Mondays are tough.
This morning was insane. I got up at 5:30, ran on the teadmill for 20 min. and then got the girls up. We had to leave to take Laura to school at 6:30, so it was crazy getting her ready. Now, I have Becca's lunch and breakfast taken care of and dinner in the crock pot (I teach until 7:00). I feel like I have already put in a days work and the day has just begun. Tomorrow should be better as we will go to bed earlier tonight and we don't have to get up quite so early.
Tom is in Virginia/D.C. and I hope he is learning lots. I sure miss him and I sure miss his help. He is such a great Dad and I must tell him this a bit more.
Yesterday, I picked up my friend, Elaine from the Denver airport. Congrats. to them on the marriage of their daughter over the weekend. I love talking to Elaine and I hope we can have lunch soon.
I must get this Monday started. The blogs may be short and sweet as I am single parenting until Friday.
Take care everyone.
Tom is in Virginia/D.C. and I hope he is learning lots. I sure miss him and I sure miss his help. He is such a great Dad and I must tell him this a bit more.
Yesterday, I picked up my friend, Elaine from the Denver airport. Congrats. to them on the marriage of their daughter over the weekend. I love talking to Elaine and I hope we can have lunch soon.
I must get this Monday started. The blogs may be short and sweet as I am single parenting until Friday.
Take care everyone.
Sunday, September 23, 2007
Single Parenting
Today, Tom leaves for D.C. until next Friday. I am really going to miss him. He is my rock and keeps me grounded when the world seems to get too much. We were looking at the calendar for next week and I have a new appreciation for single parents.
Yesterday, we went over to Jan's and had a fabulous dinner. Thanks Jan and Michael. They bought a gorgeous chocolate cake in honor of my birthday. I am blessed to have such a great family. Thanks everyone. I will include a picture of my cake when Tom gets back. I still haven't mastered the art of downloading pictures from my cell phone camera.
The hot tub was absolutely WONDERFUL!!! We all sat in it until 10:30 last night. That is late for me, but I think I slept more soundly because I was so relaxed. Tom said his back really felt better. The girls loved the thought of swimming in our back yard. I hope the neighbors appreciate it as much as we do.
Cheers to Jen. She ran eighteen miles this weekend. She is my inspiration for running. I hope to someday be able to run half that much.
As I write this, Becca is informing me that the toaster is broken. I better go before she does something we all regret.
Happy Day!!!!
Yesterday, we went over to Jan's and had a fabulous dinner. Thanks Jan and Michael. They bought a gorgeous chocolate cake in honor of my birthday. I am blessed to have such a great family. Thanks everyone. I will include a picture of my cake when Tom gets back. I still haven't mastered the art of downloading pictures from my cell phone camera.
The hot tub was absolutely WONDERFUL!!! We all sat in it until 10:30 last night. That is late for me, but I think I slept more soundly because I was so relaxed. Tom said his back really felt better. The girls loved the thought of swimming in our back yard. I hope the neighbors appreciate it as much as we do.
Cheers to Jen. She ran eighteen miles this weekend. She is my inspiration for running. I hope to someday be able to run half that much.
As I write this, Becca is informing me that the toaster is broken. I better go before she does something we all regret.
Happy Day!!!!
Saturday, September 22, 2007
Cloudy Saturday
Today is a lot cooler and very cloudy. Not the sort of day to go hiking, but perfect for hot tubbing. As I write this, the temperature in the tub is up to 90 degrees, so now we have to add the start up chemicals. We have to wait two hours and then we are good to go. The girls can't wait and I am pretty excited myself.
We are getting Tom ready to leave tomorrow and I am preparing for a week of single parenthood. The girls are busy with homework and this evening we are going over to Jan's. I think there is someone's birthday we are celebrating. Ha Ha.
I haven't given any quotes this week, so here goes what I thought was a good one by Albert Einstein:
"There are only two ways to live your life. One is as though nothing is a miracle. The other is as though everything is a miracle."
We are getting Tom ready to leave tomorrow and I am preparing for a week of single parenthood. The girls are busy with homework and this evening we are going over to Jan's. I think there is someone's birthday we are celebrating. Ha Ha.
I haven't given any quotes this week, so here goes what I thought was a good one by Albert Einstein:
"There are only two ways to live your life. One is as though nothing is a miracle. The other is as though everything is a miracle."
Friday, September 21, 2007
Giving them the moon and stars
Three weeks ago, I picked up a telescope at Goodwill. I wasn't sure if I should buy it as I am terrible at buying any sort of techy stuff. Tom said that since it was only $20.00, it was probably worth it.
We finally got around to putting it together yesterday and all was fine. I put it in my living room and after the girls got home, I noticed that someone had pointed it at the neighbors house. I cautioned the girls about "window peeping".
After birthday cake and celebration, we took it outside to look at the moon. Tom lined it up and focused it. The reaction we got from the girls was totally worth $20.00. (I know this sounds like the credit card commercial.) Both of the girls were amazed that they could see the craters on the moon. They wanted to see more, but there was too much cloud cover.
Seeing the moon, led to a conversation with them about planets, stars, and all of the solar systems. They began to realize how truly big and awesome the universe is. They wanted to see and learn more.
Becca is studying space right now and she informed us that she is "Venus" in the third grade play. During my early morning run/walk with Carol this morning, I noticed a planet in the sky and the cloud cover from last night had lifted. When I got home, I got out the telescope and there it was. Venus. Both Becca and Laura got out of bed way early just to see it. I am not sure they were impressed with what they saw as it was just a glowing blob, but I was amazed, again, at how excited they are about studying space.
Was the telescope worth it? You bet. I am glad I took the chance on buying it and I am so grateful that someone donated it so that I could buy it. I LOVE GOODWILL.
Today is exciting for us as the hot tub will be delivered today. It takes about 30 hours to heat up. We will see if the girls will dare to take a cold dip tonight.
We finally got around to putting it together yesterday and all was fine. I put it in my living room and after the girls got home, I noticed that someone had pointed it at the neighbors house. I cautioned the girls about "window peeping".
After birthday cake and celebration, we took it outside to look at the moon. Tom lined it up and focused it. The reaction we got from the girls was totally worth $20.00. (I know this sounds like the credit card commercial.) Both of the girls were amazed that they could see the craters on the moon. They wanted to see more, but there was too much cloud cover.
Seeing the moon, led to a conversation with them about planets, stars, and all of the solar systems. They began to realize how truly big and awesome the universe is. They wanted to see and learn more.
Becca is studying space right now and she informed us that she is "Venus" in the third grade play. During my early morning run/walk with Carol this morning, I noticed a planet in the sky and the cloud cover from last night had lifted. When I got home, I got out the telescope and there it was. Venus. Both Becca and Laura got out of bed way early just to see it. I am not sure they were impressed with what they saw as it was just a glowing blob, but I was amazed, again, at how excited they are about studying space.
Was the telescope worth it? You bet. I am glad I took the chance on buying it and I am so grateful that someone donated it so that I could buy it. I LOVE GOODWILL.
Today is exciting for us as the hot tub will be delivered today. It takes about 30 hours to heat up. We will see if the girls will dare to take a cold dip tonight.
Thursday, September 20, 2007
41 years young
Happy birthday to me!! I was awakened this morning by my three favorite people in the whole wide world. They let me sleep in until 6:30, brought me a big mug of my favorite coffee (thanks Jen), and gave me a muffin with a candle in it. I can't think of a better way to start my day.
Last night, Becca asked if I was excited that today was my birthday. I didn't want to spoil her enthusiasm so I said "yes". She said, "Are you going to turn 39?". I said no and told her that I would turn 41. She was shocked and said "Mom, I thought you were going to turn 39. I can't believe you will be 41". I think she needs an increase in her allowance.
Happy day everyone!!!!
Last night, Becca asked if I was excited that today was my birthday. I didn't want to spoil her enthusiasm so I said "yes". She said, "Are you going to turn 39?". I said no and told her that I would turn 41. She was shocked and said "Mom, I thought you were going to turn 39. I can't believe you will be 41". I think she needs an increase in her allowance.
Happy day everyone!!!!
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
Fall is in the air.
Today is a gorgeous not so warm day. I went for my walk with Carol this morning and I wore my jacket the whole time. I am going to cut the grass for possibly, the last time this year. I want to get our Halloween stuff out of storage so the girls can decorate this weekend. We have had a dusting of snow in the ski areas and I am keeping my eye on the turning of the Aspens.
Tom will go out of town on Sunday. He will spend a week in the D.C. area for a training class. We will miss him, but I hope he can come back as rested as I did from the Janus'.
I guess that's it for today. Not much going on, just house cleaning and I made Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins this morning. These are Laura's favorite, so she will be surprised when she gets home.
TTFN
Tom will go out of town on Sunday. He will spend a week in the D.C. area for a training class. We will miss him, but I hope he can come back as rested as I did from the Janus'.
I guess that's it for today. Not much going on, just house cleaning and I made Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins this morning. These are Laura's favorite, so she will be surprised when she gets home.
TTFN
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
Back in Town
I had a fabulous weekend in Kingsport. It was SOOO wonderful to see Jen and all of her guys. Scott had to work much of the time, but that gave Jen and I time to catch up. I told her I felt like I was at the Janus Spa. I had wonderful food, complete with yummy desserts, exercise, two massages (by my favorite massus), lots and lots of play therapy and lots and lots of hugs and kisses. The weather was rainy the first day, but fabulous after that. We went to the Biltmore on Saturday with the boys.
I was impressed by the behavior of the little guys. We had to carry them the whole time as strollers are not allowed inside the mansion. They got a little squirmy, but overall, they were really good. Jen and I even went to the vineyards for the wine tasting. I don't know much about wine, so I learned a little.
Sunday we took a stroll through Jen's beautiful neighborhood and on down to the park. It felt like fall as the leaves were about to change and the weather was cooler. Jen and Scott have lots and lots of trees. I don't envy them and their raking this fall, but the leaves are going to be beautiful.Monday morning I left with mixed feelings.
I was glad to go back to my family in Colorado as I was greatly missed and visa versa, but a huge whole was left as I waved goodbye to Jen and the boys. I had my private cry that lasted until Hwy. 40. I miss them so much. I miss talking to Jen and I miss laughing at all the crazy things the boys do. They are growing up so fast and I don't want them to forget us. We are all planning a couple of get together's this coming year and Jen has challenged me to run the "Boulder Bolder" next May. I am going to try as my foot seems better and I really want to get back into running.
Tom and the girls met me last night at a restaraurant half way between the Springs and Denver. I was so happy to see my family again. I keep thinking today about how much calmer I am. I think I will be a better wife and mother because of this little bit of time away. For all you Mom's out there, take some time out. It really will do you good!!!!
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
Mommy Trip
Today is very busy once again, but my efforts will go toward seeing Jen and all of her boys, tomorrow. I am so excited to see them. I am a little worried about Tom and the girls, but I think they will be just fine. I don't do this very often (like every two years or so). It might even be good for them.
Here is my deep thought for today. If you have been reading my blog, you know that for the last couple of months, I have struggled in my saying "no". Back in August, I said no to the local Youth Symphony because I just didn't have the time to commit to teaching four classes. It bothered me and I was so worried about how "they" would feel about "me".
Last night, I spoke with the orchestra teacher at the high school that my middle school club will feed into. He is so excited about my club because that is the only thing, in the school district, feeding his program once the kids are out of elementary school. He has all of these great plans. I will have lots of volunteer help from him, he will help me with music, we are already planning a combined concert. It is truly what God needed for me to do. If I had not said "no" to the Youth Symphony, this could not have happened. God is trustworthy. I just have to keep reminding myself of that.
Yesterday, I got a good lesson in why we shouldn't tell little white lies. My daughter, Laura, was sick and at home. I had to sub., so we called her often and Tom came home every couple of hours to check on her. Before I left in the am, I told her to not answer the door and if anybody called, tell them her parents were in the shower or in the bathroom. As a sub., yesterday, one of my duties was "kiss-n-go". I help the kids into their awaiting cars and they go. A good friend of mine was picking her kids up. She went through the line and said, "Are you feeling alright?" I said, yes. She said "youre are at school?" I said, yes. She said "I have called your house several times today and every time you have been in the bathroom". Laura was simply doing what I told her to do.
If any of you are around this weekend, give Tom a call and make sure my children are alive and well. Thanks.
Here is my deep thought for today. If you have been reading my blog, you know that for the last couple of months, I have struggled in my saying "no". Back in August, I said no to the local Youth Symphony because I just didn't have the time to commit to teaching four classes. It bothered me and I was so worried about how "they" would feel about "me".
Last night, I spoke with the orchestra teacher at the high school that my middle school club will feed into. He is so excited about my club because that is the only thing, in the school district, feeding his program once the kids are out of elementary school. He has all of these great plans. I will have lots of volunteer help from him, he will help me with music, we are already planning a combined concert. It is truly what God needed for me to do. If I had not said "no" to the Youth Symphony, this could not have happened. God is trustworthy. I just have to keep reminding myself of that.
Yesterday, I got a good lesson in why we shouldn't tell little white lies. My daughter, Laura, was sick and at home. I had to sub., so we called her often and Tom came home every couple of hours to check on her. Before I left in the am, I told her to not answer the door and if anybody called, tell them her parents were in the shower or in the bathroom. As a sub., yesterday, one of my duties was "kiss-n-go". I help the kids into their awaiting cars and they go. A good friend of mine was picking her kids up. She went through the line and said, "Are you feeling alright?" I said, yes. She said "youre are at school?" I said, yes. She said "I have called your house several times today and every time you have been in the bathroom". Laura was simply doing what I told her to do.
If any of you are around this weekend, give Tom a call and make sure my children are alive and well. Thanks.
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
Time
Time, Time, Time. That is what's on my mind and my heart. It gets me in such trouble. I want more of it, but can't have it. I am trying so hard to make more of it in my life and it hurts to do so. If I say yes to something, but don't have the time to really do it well, I get in trouble or feel guilty. If I say no to something, I hurt someone or feel guilty. The trio resignation really brought this home to me. I MUST learn priorities and stick to them. I don't like feeling guilty all the time. Tom and the girls are first and foremost. I have to remember this all the TIME.
I do know that I want more time like I had yesterday. I went to lunch with some friends from my old neighborhood. We caught up on what our families were doing and we were all astounded at how big and mature our children are. We talked about aging parents and how to deal with them. We reminisced about past projects we had done together at school. Most of all, we were just a group of gals having lunch and having fun. I realized that I missed them. TIME had gotten away from us and we vowed to meet again in a couple of months. I want to make the TIME to do it because it recharged my personal battery.
Today, I am the art teacher. I know nothing about drawing or creating in that way, but I can follow directions. Hopefully, the teacher will leave complete instructions. It's funny, my TIME at school, with the kids, zips by. After last weekend, I need a day of watching children create and not caring about TIME.
The girls are still coughing some and sniffling a little, but we are going to try school today. If it doesn't work, Tom will come home with them. I hope they get better before Thursday.
I can't wait to see Jen and the fam on Thursday. I spoke with her on the phone yesterday and it just made me more excited to see them. A weekend of Jen, Scott and the boys. It will be TIME well spent and MUCH needed.
If you have been reading my blog for some TIME, you know I love quotes. I thought this one was fitting for my thoughts today. It refers to taking TIME for pause and pleasure. For finding true quality time. It is by Arthur Schnabel.
"The notes I handle no better than many pianists. But the pauses between the notes-ah, that is where the art resides".
Yesterday with the gals and this weekend with the Janus', there lies true art for me.
I do know that I want more time like I had yesterday. I went to lunch with some friends from my old neighborhood. We caught up on what our families were doing and we were all astounded at how big and mature our children are. We talked about aging parents and how to deal with them. We reminisced about past projects we had done together at school. Most of all, we were just a group of gals having lunch and having fun. I realized that I missed them. TIME had gotten away from us and we vowed to meet again in a couple of months. I want to make the TIME to do it because it recharged my personal battery.
Today, I am the art teacher. I know nothing about drawing or creating in that way, but I can follow directions. Hopefully, the teacher will leave complete instructions. It's funny, my TIME at school, with the kids, zips by. After last weekend, I need a day of watching children create and not caring about TIME.
The girls are still coughing some and sniffling a little, but we are going to try school today. If it doesn't work, Tom will come home with them. I hope they get better before Thursday.
I can't wait to see Jen and the fam on Thursday. I spoke with her on the phone yesterday and it just made me more excited to see them. A weekend of Jen, Scott and the boys. It will be TIME well spent and MUCH needed.
If you have been reading my blog for some TIME, you know I love quotes. I thought this one was fitting for my thoughts today. It refers to taking TIME for pause and pleasure. For finding true quality time. It is by Arthur Schnabel.
"The notes I handle no better than many pianists. But the pauses between the notes-ah, that is where the art resides".
Yesterday with the gals and this weekend with the Janus', there lies true art for me.
Monday, September 10, 2007
Recognizing Gifts
I got up today feeling a lot better about yesterday's decision. I had an e-mail from one of our trio members waiting for me. They were not happy about my decision and read it on my blog before they got my personal e-mail. I think I need a book on "Blogging Etiquitte". I apologized to my friend, but I felt bad for not thinking of her first. I still know I made the right decision.
Tom and I talked and talked about what my gifts are. I know God has given me the gift of teaching. I get tired, but teaching fills me with joy. I absolutely love my students. If I won a million dollars, I would still do it. I like being a sub. I like my private students and I can't wait to begin my club at the middle school. It is all about being a teacher because that is my gift from God. Performance is fun, once in a while, but that's not what it's all about for me. I feel so very blessed to know my calling. I think so many people walk around in life trying to find what they are supposed to do. I have found it. I love this quote from Jessamyn West:
"Knowledge of what you love somehow comes to you; you don't have to read nor analyze nor study. If you love a thing enough, knowledge of it seeps into you, with particulars more real than any chart can furnish".
On a much lighter note, my feet are better. I bought some arch supports from Wal Mart ($5.00) and my feet are better. I just started wearing the supports Saturday evening, but I performed yesterday (standing for 2-3 hours) and I could still walk this morning with no problem. Carole and I walked this morning and if my foot remains alright, we may start the running again when I get back from seeing "the boys".
I am going to have lunch today with some friends from our old "hood". One of them has moved back from Alabama, but I have not seen all of them for a couple of years. I can't wait to catch up with everybody.
Laura is home sick today and Becca is not up yet. I have a feeling they will both be home today with colds. I guess we are all going to recover in one way or another.
Tom and I talked and talked about what my gifts are. I know God has given me the gift of teaching. I get tired, but teaching fills me with joy. I absolutely love my students. If I won a million dollars, I would still do it. I like being a sub. I like my private students and I can't wait to begin my club at the middle school. It is all about being a teacher because that is my gift from God. Performance is fun, once in a while, but that's not what it's all about for me. I feel so very blessed to know my calling. I think so many people walk around in life trying to find what they are supposed to do. I have found it. I love this quote from Jessamyn West:
"Knowledge of what you love somehow comes to you; you don't have to read nor analyze nor study. If you love a thing enough, knowledge of it seeps into you, with particulars more real than any chart can furnish".
On a much lighter note, my feet are better. I bought some arch supports from Wal Mart ($5.00) and my feet are better. I just started wearing the supports Saturday evening, but I performed yesterday (standing for 2-3 hours) and I could still walk this morning with no problem. Carole and I walked this morning and if my foot remains alright, we may start the running again when I get back from seeing "the boys".
I am going to have lunch today with some friends from our old "hood". One of them has moved back from Alabama, but I have not seen all of them for a couple of years. I can't wait to catch up with everybody.
Laura is home sick today and Becca is not up yet. I have a feeling they will both be home today with colds. I guess we are all going to recover in one way or another.
Sunday, September 9, 2007
Priorities
Yesterday was the big wedding I had been practicing for all week. We did it and it did not go well. We just didn't jell as a group. We were off beat and some of us were out of tune. It was not our best performance. The wedding went on and the couple got married. I don't think we ruined their special day in any way, but I realized that I just can't do it all. I think I was trying to fit it all in and I just can't . My faith and family is still number one. God keeps telling me this, but my mouth keeps saying "Sure, I would love to play for your whatever". I know I am an excellent teacher and violinist, but I can't be if I don't have the time to commit to practice. I have decided to drop from the trio. I just don't have the time. It's funny, when I say "no", it feels better inside. I played for church today and I LOVED it. God spoke to me and said "this is your passion". Play for "me". The words of a praise song that we did keep going through my head.
Here are the words: "Give me one pure and holy passion. Give me one magnificent obsession. Jesus give me one glorious ambition for my life; To know and follow hard after you." I guess that sums it up.
Here are the words: "Give me one pure and holy passion. Give me one magnificent obsession. Jesus give me one glorious ambition for my life; To know and follow hard after you." I guess that sums it up.
Saturday, September 8, 2007
Even Crazier Weekend
Last night, we bought a hot tub. I can't believe we did it. We had said "no" earlier in the week as we want to be good stewards of our money. We got a call from the hot tub rep. yesterday and it seemed God had put a tub in the showroom just for us. It had already been sold, but the deal fell through and the hot tub people had forgot about it in their showroom. The guy offerred us a deal we couldn't refuse. Tom, Laura and Becca took their swimsuites into the store and tried it out. I refused to wear my swimsuite in the middle of a showroom. They loved it and Tom had almost immediate back relief. I am hoping for the same with my feet. We won't get it for a bit, but the outside temps. dropped into the 60s this week. I can't wait to get in it when it is snowing.
After our hot tub experience, we went to the wedding rehearsal at Glen Erie castle. It was beautiful and so cool we needed jackets. I am actually hoping for warmer weather today so that my violin will stay in tune. During the rehearsal, the girls explored the grounds of the castle. That was WAY cool. They said they found a dungeon and a secret passageway. Who knows if that is what they found, but I would have loved being a kid exploring a real castle.
It is lunchtime and so far, today, I have: gotten a hair cut, given five violin lessons, gone to Wal Mart and the hot tub store for further paperwork. I am tired. The wedding is this afternoon and then it's on to house cleaning. Did I mention I have to play for both services tomorrow at church? Oy, I will be glad when Monday get's here.
After our hot tub experience, we went to the wedding rehearsal at Glen Erie castle. It was beautiful and so cool we needed jackets. I am actually hoping for warmer weather today so that my violin will stay in tune. During the rehearsal, the girls explored the grounds of the castle. That was WAY cool. They said they found a dungeon and a secret passageway. Who knows if that is what they found, but I would have loved being a kid exploring a real castle.
It is lunchtime and so far, today, I have: gotten a hair cut, given five violin lessons, gone to Wal Mart and the hot tub store for further paperwork. I am tired. The wedding is this afternoon and then it's on to house cleaning. Did I mention I have to play for both services tomorrow at church? Oy, I will be glad when Monday get's here.
Friday, September 7, 2007
Crazy Week
Today I want to wish Jen a very "Happy Birthday". I hope the boys behave all day and Scott treats you like a queen.
Yesterday was so much fun. I just love kindergarten. Those kids make me smile all day. They are so innocent. They still love their teacher and they are so free with how they feel. I had a little boy who had been naughty all day, but at the end of the day, he gave me a huge hug. My heart melted. You have to understand that we, as teachers, are not allowed to initiate hugs. This makes me a little sad, but when the kids initiate it, it makes it all the more sweet. I read three Munche books to them. He is my favorite children's author and the kids loved it.
Today, I am off to fourth grade. Not my favorite, but I will like seeing the kids again. In fourth grade, the kids don't like school so much. They are not in awe of their teacher and they will usually try to get away with whatever they can. At least fourth graders are usually potty trained and don't need as much help. There are some special kids in the class that I have today and the teacher I am filling in for is one of the best. It should be a good day. Today is picture day, so at least I should have a class of "good looking" kids.
Tonight we are off to a wedding rehearsal. I am assuming the groom is gonna be there. As of a couple of weeks ago, the bride wasn't sure the groom was going to make it home from Iraq in time. We asked her mother what the plan was if he doesn't show up. Her reply was "we are gonna have a huge party". After the rehearsal we are going to go out to dinner to celebrate the end of this crazy week and the beginning of our crazy weekend.
I want to enjoy our time as a family as much as possible. September is going to bring two weeks of our family being apart. Tom is starting busness trips and training classes again. This is good for our budget, but bad for time together. I am traveling to Virginia for much needed "toddler boy therapy".
Of course, if you add Pookie and the fact that our roof and car still need repair, things get REALLY crazy around here. I am sure that someday, I will look back on this time and wonder how I did it, but be really glad I did. I hope.
This quote sums up how I feel this week.
"At work, you think of the children you have left at home. At home, you think of the work you've left unfinished. Such a struggle is unleashed within yourself. Your heart is rent."
Golda Meir
Yesterday was so much fun. I just love kindergarten. Those kids make me smile all day. They are so innocent. They still love their teacher and they are so free with how they feel. I had a little boy who had been naughty all day, but at the end of the day, he gave me a huge hug. My heart melted. You have to understand that we, as teachers, are not allowed to initiate hugs. This makes me a little sad, but when the kids initiate it, it makes it all the more sweet. I read three Munche books to them. He is my favorite children's author and the kids loved it.
Today, I am off to fourth grade. Not my favorite, but I will like seeing the kids again. In fourth grade, the kids don't like school so much. They are not in awe of their teacher and they will usually try to get away with whatever they can. At least fourth graders are usually potty trained and don't need as much help. There are some special kids in the class that I have today and the teacher I am filling in for is one of the best. It should be a good day. Today is picture day, so at least I should have a class of "good looking" kids.
Tonight we are off to a wedding rehearsal. I am assuming the groom is gonna be there. As of a couple of weeks ago, the bride wasn't sure the groom was going to make it home from Iraq in time. We asked her mother what the plan was if he doesn't show up. Her reply was "we are gonna have a huge party". After the rehearsal we are going to go out to dinner to celebrate the end of this crazy week and the beginning of our crazy weekend.
I want to enjoy our time as a family as much as possible. September is going to bring two weeks of our family being apart. Tom is starting busness trips and training classes again. This is good for our budget, but bad for time together. I am traveling to Virginia for much needed "toddler boy therapy".
Of course, if you add Pookie and the fact that our roof and car still need repair, things get REALLY crazy around here. I am sure that someday, I will look back on this time and wonder how I did it, but be really glad I did. I hope.
This quote sums up how I feel this week.
"At work, you think of the children you have left at home. At home, you think of the work you've left unfinished. Such a struggle is unleashed within yourself. Your heart is rent."
Golda Meir
Thursday, September 6, 2007
The Weekend is Near
Today, I am just plain tired. The last two days have been a whirlwind of business. I am off this morning, but I so desperately need to catch up on things neglected the last two days. I must practice for the wedding this weekend. The music is a bit more challenging than what we are used to. I think it will turn out nice, but I need to put a little more time into it.
This afternoon, I am a kindergarten teacher and though I am tired, I am excited about seeing the kids. I love kindergarten. These kids really want to be at school and are usually hungry to learn. I love listening to them and watching them play.
Yesterday, I was in first grade. I had a blast!!! We laughed, played, sang and I hope a little learning went on too. At the end of the day, I got a lot of hugs and they wanted to know when I would return. If that is not an ego booster, I don't know what is.
Yesterday, I finally recieved my clearance to do the string club at Laura's school. It has been a crazy process of administration not really knowing what is going on. Today, I begin the planning of this and am excited and a little nervous to get going.
Tonight, it is yet another busy evening filled with lessons and being out until 9:00. I have to be up at school this evening for an orchestra function. The last two days have been 14 hour days and today I face another. Not all weeks are like this one. Thank goodness!!!!!
This afternoon, I am a kindergarten teacher and though I am tired, I am excited about seeing the kids. I love kindergarten. These kids really want to be at school and are usually hungry to learn. I love listening to them and watching them play.
Yesterday, I was in first grade. I had a blast!!! We laughed, played, sang and I hope a little learning went on too. At the end of the day, I got a lot of hugs and they wanted to know when I would return. If that is not an ego booster, I don't know what is.
Yesterday, I finally recieved my clearance to do the string club at Laura's school. It has been a crazy process of administration not really knowing what is going on. Today, I begin the planning of this and am excited and a little nervous to get going.
Tonight, it is yet another busy evening filled with lessons and being out until 9:00. I have to be up at school this evening for an orchestra function. The last two days have been 14 hour days and today I face another. Not all weeks are like this one. Thank goodness!!!!!
Wednesday, September 5, 2007
First Grade
Today I am going to be a first grade teacher. I love kindergarten (that's tomorrow) and first grade. The kids haven't gotten so big yet and they are still in awe of teachers. I am going to take some of my favorite books for story time and I can't wait for them to tell me their stories. I love being a teacher. At the end of the day, I feel like a kid again.
Carol and I have decided to walk fast instead of run, for a while. I continue to have foot pain and occasional knee pain. It scares me as I don't want knee problems. We did a major hill (Mt. Baldy) and both of us were way out of breathe at the top. I feel like I got a good workout this morning. I refuse to give up. I will see my doc in October and I am going to ask her about my foot. I think I may need a shoe insert. We will see.
Good news on Tom's nerve conduction test yesterday. No injuries to his back, but it looks like he has injured a muscle or nerve by running and it may take a while to heal. That was a real answer to prayer. I am beginning to think that running is not for us, but I refuse to give up the exercise. We are now in the habit and have come too far to quit. Someone mentioned hot tub therapy for him. We also read a report that recommended hot tub therapy for people with type 2 diabetes as it lowered their glucose level. We will see.
The house is quiet and Tom has poured me a lovely cup of coffee. I think I will go spend some quality time with him before the girls get up and we all go our seperate ways.
Carol and I have decided to walk fast instead of run, for a while. I continue to have foot pain and occasional knee pain. It scares me as I don't want knee problems. We did a major hill (Mt. Baldy) and both of us were way out of breathe at the top. I feel like I got a good workout this morning. I refuse to give up. I will see my doc in October and I am going to ask her about my foot. I think I may need a shoe insert. We will see.
Good news on Tom's nerve conduction test yesterday. No injuries to his back, but it looks like he has injured a muscle or nerve by running and it may take a while to heal. That was a real answer to prayer. I am beginning to think that running is not for us, but I refuse to give up the exercise. We are now in the habit and have come too far to quit. Someone mentioned hot tub therapy for him. We also read a report that recommended hot tub therapy for people with type 2 diabetes as it lowered their glucose level. We will see.
The house is quiet and Tom has poured me a lovely cup of coffee. I think I will go spend some quality time with him before the girls get up and we all go our seperate ways.
Tuesday, September 4, 2007
Busy Busy
Today I face the coming week and am overwhelmed. I guess I need to think about my "eating a whale" mantra for a while. Today is filled with many violin lessons and a rehearsal for this weekend's wedding. Tomorrow, Thursday, and Friday, I substitute teach, prepare for the wedding, give lessons and prepare to play at church on Sunday. Saturday, I get a haircut, give lessons and play for a wedding. Sunday, I play for both services at church. Next Thursday, I leave for Kingsport (Yeah!!). One bite at a time.... One bite at a time....
Yesterday was grande. We had friends over for a bbq, but ate inside due to a rain storm. I should have taken pictures, but I forgot. We were glad this rain storm did not involve hail. Carole made homemade ice cream that was absolutely yummy. Erika brought homeade hummus that we LOVED. It was so nice to sit with friends and enjoy the evening before we jumped into this busy week.
Earlier in the afternoon, Laura and I went to WalMart for ice. When I returned, Tom said two neighbors came by for obscure reasons. We think they were fishing for an invite, but we wanted to keep the day low key. You can't resist the smell of Tom's bbq and you can smell it all over. I felt a little guilty not inviting everyone, but the day was nice just the way it was.
Yesterday was grande. We had friends over for a bbq, but ate inside due to a rain storm. I should have taken pictures, but I forgot. We were glad this rain storm did not involve hail. Carole made homemade ice cream that was absolutely yummy. Erika brought homeade hummus that we LOVED. It was so nice to sit with friends and enjoy the evening before we jumped into this busy week.
Earlier in the afternoon, Laura and I went to WalMart for ice. When I returned, Tom said two neighbors came by for obscure reasons. We think they were fishing for an invite, but we wanted to keep the day low key. You can't resist the smell of Tom's bbq and you can smell it all over. I felt a little guilty not inviting everyone, but the day was nice just the way it was.
Monday, September 3, 2007
Labor Day
This morning, Tom is doing one of the things he does best. He is smoking meat for company this evening. Friends are coming over and we are gonna "pig out" on Tom's finest. We love entertaining on days like today. It makes the day so special and it gives Tom a chance to try out new ideas for bbq.
We went to the glow last night, but the balloons did not inflate due to weather conditions. When we went to get Pookie, he was totally confused and in his pajamas already. He thought it was the middle of the night and it was only 6:30pm. He was angry because he thought we were late picking him up and he had been waiting for a long time. We were actually 15 minutes early from the time we had set. Some days are like that and we will try again.
Carol and I went for our jog/walk this morning. We could see the final lift off of the balloons in the distance. For me, the Balloon Classic marks the end of summer. Now we have to start thinking about the holidays and winterizing the lawn. The girls got a Halloween catalogue yesterday, in the mail and if you go to the grocery, there is candy and decorations up already. I am saddened to see the carefree days of Summer go, but I love the fall and the cool weather.
We went to the glow last night, but the balloons did not inflate due to weather conditions. When we went to get Pookie, he was totally confused and in his pajamas already. He thought it was the middle of the night and it was only 6:30pm. He was angry because he thought we were late picking him up and he had been waiting for a long time. We were actually 15 minutes early from the time we had set. Some days are like that and we will try again.
Carol and I went for our jog/walk this morning. We could see the final lift off of the balloons in the distance. For me, the Balloon Classic marks the end of summer. Now we have to start thinking about the holidays and winterizing the lawn. The girls got a Halloween catalogue yesterday, in the mail and if you go to the grocery, there is candy and decorations up already. I am saddened to see the carefree days of Summer go, but I love the fall and the cool weather.
Sunday, September 2, 2007
Happy Birthday Tammie
Here is a big "Happy Birthday" to my little sis, Tammie. I won't go into details as to how old she is today as she is younger than me and I have a birthday this month too. I hope she has a wonderful day and I wish I was there to celebrate it with her.
This evening, we are off to the Balloon Glow. This is where the hot air balloons are tethered so that they cannot lift off, but their burners make them glow in the night. It is another beautiful part of the weekend. We hope to take Pookie with us, but we are concerned about all the walking. We shall see and tomorrow I should have more beautiful pictures.
This evening, we are off to the Balloon Glow. This is where the hot air balloons are tethered so that they cannot lift off, but their burners make them glow in the night. It is another beautiful part of the weekend. We hope to take Pookie with us, but we are concerned about all the walking. We shall see and tomorrow I should have more beautiful pictures.
Saturday, September 1, 2007
Balloon Fest
Today, we got up at 3:30 a.m. and went down to Memorial Park to watch a meteor shower and the 31st Annual Balloon Fest. We went with Carol, Bernhardt, and Andrea. We had a great time. You know you have true friends, when they will get up at 3:30 a.m. to go with you.
The meteor show was great. We spread a big blanket on the ground, layed down and watched the show. I have to say that the place we spread the blanket was where the trucks would come, hauling the balloon equipement, but at 4:30 a.m., no trucks and it was fun.
We ate muffins and drank hot cocoa and coffee. I thought it special that none of us saw the meteors all at the same time. Two or three of us would see one and then the others would miss it and vice versa. We each got our own show. Thanks God!!
When the sun came up, it was time to watch the balloons. It started by the balloons being spread out on the grass. Imagine a four story house size blanket, spread out on the ground. After the spreading, fans were blown into the inside of the balloon and when the balloon was inflated, they lit the burners and heated the air inside it.
When the balloon was standing, folks gathered on the sides of the basket to keep it from floating away. At just the right time, folks stepped away and the balloon drifted up. This morning, we saw around 100 balloons do this. They also, floated over the lake and tried to dip in it. They had to skim the water because, if they dipped into the water too far, they wouldn't have gotten back up.
I can't accurately describe the spectacular color and glory of seeing 50 colorful balloons in the sky all at once. Pictures only give you a glimpse of how beautiful it is. This is why we keep going year after year.
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