Homecoming

40 hard working ASB kids + 15 hour work week days + Homecoming themes + dress up days + lunchtime activities + buckets of paint + butcher paper + blue tape + glue and glitter + school assemblies + school unity + royalty + buff puff + powder puff + small town parade + a dominant football game + halftime show + king and queen + strings of light + yards of gossamer + even more yards of tulle + 700 balloons + DJ + songs playlists + girls wearing fancy dresses and high heels + boys wearing tuxes

=

The Best Week of The Year

October Goals

Alrighty folks, time for a little goal setting.  Rachel and Jen are doing it so I'm doing it, too (cause I wanna be like the cool kids!).  For a number of reasons, I like the idea of setting goals.  First, I love to make lists.  Second, I like to cross items off a list and show productivity.  Third, setting goals will help me find the balance that I need as I work towards setting my priorities straight.

That being said, what are my goals for October?

1. Settle into a routine and solid pace at work.  Once Homecoming ends (this week!), I won't have as many plates to balance and the pace should slow down.  I have to remember the school year is a marathon, not a sprint to the finish line.  Right now, it feels like I'm interval training!
2. I'd like to delve into the administrative pieces of my job.  Having a better understanding will help me be a stronger member of the team.
3. I will not log on to the computer on any date night with Eric for the entire month.  We often sit and watch movies and I have never been able to sit still through a movie (possible adult onset of ADHD?)for years.  So, I find myself logging on to the computer and surfing, rather than focusing on hanging out with Eric.  It is a bad habit that I want to break. 
4. I have given up on running in the morning before work.  So, my goal is to meet the girls from work, before school, twice a week to lift weights and hang out.  Meeting this goal will not only make me feel better about working out but appeal to the social side of me, as well.
5. Think before I commit to anything so I don't bail out on anyone.  Ask myself questions like:  Is the timing right?  How will I feel, based on my schedule, when that day comes around?  How will my boys be affected if I commit myself to this event?  Is there another time that this event could work better for me and my family? 

So, making that list wasn't so hard.  Hopefully, accomplishing a few of the goals will be as easy as creating the list

Have you thought about what you want to accomplish?  I challenge you to set October goals for yourself TODAY!

T-minus

I turn 39 tomorrow. 

I LOVE my birthday. 

 I love it so much that I drag it out my princess status for the full 24 hours that is October 4. 

But 39?  Yuck.  I struggled with turning 29, too. 

I wonder if I'll hate turning 49.

OMG.  49. 

39 doesn't sound so bad, after all.

Confession

Day 10: One confession.

 

I can't do it all. 

 

It's time to be honest about it or else, I'm going to continue hurting people I love.

 

Two in One

Since I didn't have a chance to post yesterday, I'm posting two today.  I like to stay on schedule.

Day 8: Three turn ons.

1.  Two songs come to mind:  With or Without You by U2.  Son of a Preacher Man by Dusty Springfield.  Play those songs and I'm a sure thing.  Just ask my husband.

2.  Sleep.  Uninterupted sleep that leads to sleeping in.  With my husband.

3.  A man who cooks a meal for me.  I love sitting in our kitchen, with a glass of red wine, watching my husband cook. 

Since my husband is the common thread, clearly Eric is my greatest turn on.

As it should be.

Day 9: Two words that describe your life right now.

1.  Content.  I used to laugh at Eric when he used this word to describe how he felt.  Now, I use it because it is the word that fits.  I'm content with where I am in life.  I have no further wishes, waiting to be granted.  I have very few regrets.  I am loved fiercely by my husband and son.  I have an amazing family who would do anything for me.  What more could I need?

2.  Blessed.  I am blessed to have a loving husband, who is secure and confident.  He only wants me to be happy.  I am blessed to have a child, after years of infertility struggles.  I am blessed to have a job, in a time when so many have found themselves unemployed.  I am blessed to have found friends who make me a better person.  There is very little want in my life.  I am blessed.

Day 7: Four turn offs.

1.  A liar.  Not only someone who tells lies to me but someone who lies to themself and conceals true character.

2.  Selfishness.  I might use the phrase, "it is all about me" but it is in jest.  Being selfish is not in my character and I am not attracted to it.  Try asking open-ended questions of a person.  You could learn more about them than you ever realized. 

3.  Smelly people.  More especially-unwashed clothing.  Which could explain my obsession with doing laundry.  I try not to judge but smelly people are definitely turn offs. 

4.  Meat on the bone.  Different foods touching on a plate.  Most exotic or ethnic foods.  Or any of my other 100 food quirks.  I won't bore you with those details.  As it is, I'm sure you're already learning more than you ever wanted to know about me due to this blog challenge.



Day 6: Five people who mean a lot to me.

I think this is a loaded question.  And the Libra in me hates it. 

What if I offend someone who isn't in the 5?  And again, it goes wihout saying,

Alexander and Eric would be first on the list/

This question makes me dislike this blog challenge but I'm committed...

1.  Leadership Camp Senior Counselors: 

They inspire me, challenge me, and push me to better than I am.  They remind me of the good in people.  Despite camp being seven days, and all of us are on our best behavior, I trust these folks to be honest with me.  They are incredible people who live the Rainier Magic every day of their lives.  It's just who they are and I aspire to be more like them. Plus, they listened to me complain about "the job" for six years and were the first ones I wanted to tell when I was offered it this year.  They get it.  And me.

2 and 3.  My brother and sister:

Our relationships have strengthened over the years.  I can be totally pissed off at them in one minute and completely defend them in the next.  I am the oldest of three and I have always and continue to love them with a fierceness to protect and hover over them.  I have learned that they don't need my protection so our adult friendships have morphed into even playing fields.  While they are the first to frustrate me; they are also the first to support, encourage, and love me.  I am immensely proud of them for where they are in their lives, careers, and with their families. 

4.  My cousin Jodie:

She is my best friend.  She validates me.  She calls me on my shit.  She makes me a better person.  I don't see her near as much as I should (what happened to our monthly dinner visit plan?).  When I do see her, she has to make the trek to us but she never complains about it.  I should make more of an effort but she gets where I am in life and accepts me for it.  She loves my husband.  And she loves my son almost as much as I do.  And she cried about my cat, too. 

5.  My ASB students:

They rock.  They push me to do my best as a teacher.  And they have totally stepped up with a new advisor who knew nothing about their plans for the year.  They know I am a control freak but have understood, better than I it seems, that I would be busy with this new job.  So, they have stepped in when needed, without being asked, and not one single task has been dropped by the team.  That's saying a lot when working with 40+ student-leaders.  And they eat all my candy...which my arse doesn't need, so it's a good thing.

Ok, maybe that wasn't as hard as I thought.  Just don't be mad if you didn't make the list.  It did only allow for five people and these people came to mind tonight. 

If I could change one thing...

Day 5: Six things I wish I could change or wish I would have never done.

This entry is a fascinating one for me.  I try, really try, to live my life without regrets.  I'm not very impulsive so thinking before acting is pretty common for me. 

Yet, the challenge is to come up with six things...so, here we go.

 
1.  I never should have gone to Alaska during the summer of '91 to work.  Granted, it allowed me to spend time with family in Anchorage.  However, I also gained 70lbs in three months.  Yes.  You read that correctly.  I ate my way through the adventure.  And I came home fat.  I hated it.  I never should have gone. 
 
2.  I wish I could have been at Grandma Roma's memorial service.  But I was in Alaska.  Getting fat.  Everytime I eat zucchini bread (in moderation), I think of Roma and how I didn't say goodbye. 
 
3.  I never should have dated my best friend from high school.  And that's all I have to say about THAT.
 
4.  I wish I had been more honest with my best friend from college, when we were living together (post college).  Instead of being honest, I cut all ties soon after her first child was born.  She and I have since cleaned the air and rekindled the friendship.  But I lost ten years of her life.  I often wonder what and how life would be if we hadn't lost that time together.
 
5.  I wish I had gone to the endrocronologist sooner to determine the cause of the infertility. Maybe if I hadn't been so stubborn about going to a doctor, we would have two little boys in the house.  Or maybe not.  At least I have one sweet face that makes me grin.  And he's more than enough for my heart.
 
6.  I wish we didn't have to put Schmoo to sleep tomorrow.  He's our first baby.  Schmoo was the one who cuddled with me and listened to me sob when infertility was at its darkest.  He is so sweet and gentle, and I love when he curls up on my lap when I'm reading.  We found him as a stray at the pound in 2000 as a Valentine's/Anniversary gift for me.  We first suspected he was sick at the beginning of this summer.  We changed his food and he seemed to improve.  Early last week, we realized he was scrambling to jump up and decided it was time to see a vet.  On Friday, the blood tests showed cancer and the doctor thinks it is in his colon.  Schmoo has wasted down to less than 5lbs, despite eating all the time, and isn't able to absorb the nutrients.  The doctor said we could bring him home for the weekend and we've been spoiling him with all the food he wants, even if it means I clean up cat puke for days. 

Tomorrow, my baby is going to sleep.  And I'll miss him terribly. 

 Schmoo would always cuddle up close to my preggo belly and purr into it. 

Until the day Alexander kicked him. 

Maybe that's the reason he gives Alexander a three foot width whenever they are in the same room,

We saw those eyes and fell in love.

Goodbye Schmoo-kitty.  We'll miss you.

What's on my mind?

Day 4: Seven things that cross my mind a lot.

1.  I can't believe I'm being paid for a job that brings me such joy. 

2.  Any minute, my boss is going to walk in and tell me they have changed their mind and I'm done (turns out this is called "Impostor Syndrome").

3.  I wish I was better at balancing wife, mother, and working parent.  I feel I'm pretty adequate during the summer months.  During the school year...I totally suck.

4.  Reminding myself that spending time with Alexander, playing trains or coloring, is more important than cleaning the house or surfing the Internet.  Even as laundry piles up around me.

5.  I constantly think about what I eat and how much exercise I have done for that day.  And hope for the day when I can let the issues go.

6.  Sleep.  Coffee.  Sleep.  Coffee.  In that order.

7.  Better take a picture because this (whatever this may be) is blog-worthy.

 

What I Can't Live Without

Day 3: Eight things I couldn't live without.

**I'm taking a materialistic angle with this post.  Obviously, it should be known, without saying, that I can't live without my friends and family.

1.  My hair straightener, which keeps me from having wavy, frizzy hair.  This leads leads me to think of my hair dresser, who is actually what I could live without.  Suzy has been my hair dresser for thirteen years.  We have been through many cuts and colors together.  In the past five years, I would say our lives have melded from client-hair-dresser to friends.  For what it is worth, Suzy was on the Biggest Loser in Season 2 but was my hair dresser long before she was a celebrity. 

2.  My Keurig coffee maker.  It's almost been a year since I've converted to the Keurig and I must say, I'll never go back.  I love it.  It's efficient.  It's strong.  And it's WAY cheaper than buying Starbucks every day.

3.  My washer and dryer.  Weird, right?  I love doing laundry.  I love how, when it is done, you know the task is done.  I love how clean and crisp my clothes are after a load of laundry.  And I love the routine of it. 

5.  My laptop.  It's actually the school district's laptop but boy, do I love it.  Updating the blogs.  Facebook.  Email.  Keeps me sane.

6.  My Blackberry Curve.  Two years ago, Eric gave me one for my birthday.  Currently, Eric and I are in negotiations for iPhones.  He wants one.  I don't.  I just love my curve too much to say goodbye.

7.  My house.  I loved it from the minute I pulled up the driveway and opened the front door.  It's quirky.  It's open.  It's full of natural sunlight all year long (we don't have blinds on any windows, except Alexander).  And I truly believe that Alexander was meant to live in this house because the day after we closed on it, we found out we were pregnant.  And I don't really believe in coincidences, ya know?

8.  My job.  I am lucky enough to have found a job that fulfills me to the soul.  I put in 10 hours a day and can't wait to go back and put in another 10 hour day.  Over and over again.  Funny thing is...Eric has found the same thing with his stay-at-home gig.  The happiness in our jobs is something neither of us can live without.

Wanna know a secret?

Day 2: Nine things about yourself that most people don't know.

1.  My deepest fear is Alexander will be abducted.  Ok, maybe my deepest fear is he will drown.  Ok, maybe my deepest fear is Alexander and Eric will die in a car crash.  Together.  Yep, that's my deepest fear.  Losing my boys.  I guess it really doesn't matter how it would happen.  I simply fear they will die and I will be alone.

2.  I'm innately shy.  I've learned how to adapt and cover the shyness in most situations.  But when it comes down to it, I am shy.  Most would disagree, based on my outgoing personality but those who know me best, know this to be true.
 
3.  I don't take on challenges if I believe I am going to fail.  Rather ironic for a person who loves working with student-leaders in situations where I encourage them fail so they can learn from the experience.  But failure is a weakness to me.  So, I'll stay up all night, working on a project, and push kids to their limits to keep them from failing.  But if you tried doing that me, I'd push you right back.  I just won't go into the situation if I won't be successful.
 
4.  I plan my funeral and memorial service in my head, all the time.  I hear a song and think, "that would be great at my funeral".  I think about reserving the high school gym for the service and wonder how many people would arrive.  I often write eulogies for myself, as well.  It's weird.  It's twisted.  Yet, I have a serious kick-ass party planned in my head for when I go. 
 
5.  I cannot and do not tolerate incompetence.  If you can't do the job, find one you can do and get out of my way.
 
6.  I'm a homebody who doesn't like to miss a party.  Ironic for someone who is shy, right?  I am ok with missing events but when it comes to a party, I HATE to miss out.  Case in point:  my high school friends had the second annual golf tournament this summer (first one was for our high school reunion).  I was at leadership camp.  And it still bugs me, four month later, that I missed out. 
 

7.   I step on the scale every morning.  And let the number decide my frame of mind.  Every day.

 

8.  I count Christmas presents. Just like my mom. I make sure everyone we give to, has the same amount of presents as everyone else.  I used to make fun of my mom for doing it.  Until the moment I realized I was unconsciously making sure everyone had the same number of gifts from us.  I can't explain it.  I just do it.

 

9.  I love my birthday.  Oh wait.  Most people who know me, know that about me.  (How's that for a subtle reminder that my birthday 10 days away?!  I warned you - I love my birthday.) 

 

 

A blog challenge

I saw this challenge on All In My Twenties by Kristen.

I thought I'd try it, simply because I want to know if I can blog 10 days in a row.

Day 1: Ten things you want to say to ten people right now.
Day 2: Nine things about yourself that most people don't know.
Day 3: Eight things you couldn't live without.
Day 4: Seven things that cross your mind a lot.
Day 5: Six things you wish you could change or wish you would have never done.
Day 6: Five people who mean a lot to you.
Day 7: Four turn offs.
Day 8: Three turn ons.
Day 9: Two words that describe your life right now.
Day 10: One confession.
 
Ten things I want to say to ten people right now.  I have no idea why these 10...the names just came to me as I was writing.
 
1.  Eric - my sweet husband of 13 years.  Thank you for being logical, level headed and patient when I need it the most.  Thank you for raising our sweet boy and taking care of our home.  Thank you for being my rock and foundation.  And please don't forget my birthday this year.  I'm not sure I can forgive two years in a row.
 
2.  Alexander - my sweet 3 1/2 year old.  Thank you for making me laugh and filling my heart with happiness.  Every day.  You hold my heart, sweet boy.  And you were worth every dark minute of infertility.
 

 
3.  My dad:  I'm proud of you for facing each day, since your diagnosis a year ago.  You're the strongest man I know.
 
4.  My mother-in-law, Betsy:  I'm lucky to have a mother-in-law that I love like my own mother.  You keep Eric sane, you adore my son, and you make us celebrate holidays throughout the year, which is way more fun.  Even if I'm not ready to celebrate Christmas at the end of October this year...
 
5.  My grandma, Grace:  I'm a terrible granddaughter who never visits you, like I should.  But I think of you, especially when I update the blogs because I know how much you enjoy reading them.  And I think of you when I pass by a tennis match, golf game or other sporting event on the TV.  I always wonder if you are watching that very thing as I pass by.  I like to think you are. We love you, Grandma Great.
 
6 and 7.  Jodie and Fidelia:  October 2.  My birthday.  Our triad.  Need I say more?
 
8.  Singer:  Look forward.  Be strong.  Travel.  Find your confidence for it has never left you.  You just forgot where you hid it for seven years.
 
9.  Bates:  you make me laugh and I really, really like that about you.  I always have.  I love that we are family.  And friends.  Especially when, as my friend, you gently remind me to update my blogs.  I need that reminder.
 
10.  My mom:  I miss you at work.  I love that I tell people how happy you are in retirement.  And the blue tablecloths really do bring color to my dismal office.  And I give you permission to call Eric anytime you want to see Alexander during the day.  Don't wait for the invitation - it's always open to you.  So is my new office. 
 
 

 
 
 
 
 

Why I don't eat at work. Ever..

When I get home from work, after I hug my boys, I make a beeline for the kitchen.  Eric stopped me today and asked why I don't eat at work.  Ever.

I have two excuses, which I explained to him. 

As I was grabbing the box of Wheat Thins.

1.  My day is so busy that I have to grab food that is "walkable" for my lunch.  I supervise both lunches by wandering the hallways and stopping in to talk with my friends (who should be teaching but secretly, love when I interrupt their classes).  Today, my food intake consisted of string cheese, carrots, and a handful of wheat thins.  Oh, and part of a protein bar that had the worst texture and completely grossed me out.  It really should come as no surprise that I've lost 7 lbs since I started this new job.  And I don't take the time to really think about making my lunch because well...I don't cook.  Thus, I don't think about preparing food.

2.   I don't like people seeing me eat at work.  I know that is unhealthy behavior.  For those who know me well, this does not come as a huge surprise.  I have an unhealthy relationship with food.   Ask any of my students and most will tell you that they have never seen me eat at work.  In 15 years of teaching, that is the one thing I could never overcome, except during pregnancy when I HAD to eat.  Yes, I know it's weird.  But I have weird food quirks.  And eating in front of students, is one of them.  Don't even get me started about eating meat on the bone.  Shudder.   SO GROSS.

Anyhow, my office is ALWAYS full of kids.  And I'm certainly not going to kick them out so I can eat lunch.  That's just rude. 

So, I don't eat.

I know, it's unhealthy to miss meals. I know I need to make sandwiches or take foods that allow me to eat and walk. I know I should take food that forces me to sit down and eat. I get it .

For crying out loud, I'm a PE teacher and I KNOW that I should eat.

But I don't.

All that being said, we are going to my favorite Italian restaurant tonight!  Spaghetti and red wine.  Deliciousness. 

Too bad I won't be able to eat the leftovers at work tomorrow!

Book Club and a New Bloggy Look

First, the new blog look. I decided I wanted something bold for the blog.  With the new job, I've found myself having to be rather bold at work. Nothing major.  Yet, my voice is a bit more authoritative.  I am wearing grown up clothes.  And they did give me that new fancy radio, to carry around campus.

So, I decided the blog needed to reflect how I'm feeling.  I have to admit. I love the browns.  I'm not overly keen about the header, though.  It may be the green that is throwing me off.  I'll have to figure out what to do about that piece tomorrow.  What do you think??

*edited to add - I couldn't wait until tomorrow so the header you see now, is the one I think I'll keep

I hosted Book Club tonight.  I hate to choose the book, by the way.  I feel way too much pressure.  So, I researched best seller lists and chose "Opposite of Me" (have YOU read it?), .  I invited my closest girlfriends, via Facebook, chose a date, and asked everyone to come over with snacks and/or beverages in hand.  Like events hosted through ASB at school, I figured I'd give people the opportunity and let them decide for themselves, if they want to be a part of this event or not.  Yes, this meant my worlds of friends had to collide but I was really ok with having high school, college and adult friends hang out. 

There were about 8 of us, plenty of food and wine, and a lot of laughter and discussion. The consesus is that the book is a great beach read, with deeper threads about perception - internal and external.  In hindsight, I should have chose "The Art of Racing" (which I really really enjoyed) but with my sweet kitty being sick, I didn't have the heart to choose a book about an animal.   I really hope we'll continue to meet.  Next meeting we are planning to read, "Are Men Necessary?".  It was suggested as a joke but naturally, we chose it.  None of us are men bashers so it should lead to interesting discussion.

Now, it's a matter of throwing out the date and book title again and let people choose for themselves. 

Either way, I'm in!

Not exactly the ego boost I was looking for

"Ms. M, we just wanted to thank you for leaving PE this year".

"Oh?  I thought you missed me."

"Well, we did.  The new PE teacher showed up today.  She's WAY hotter than you."

"Uh...you're welcome?"

Computer Crash

For years, I have borrowed a computer from the school district.  Never had to pay a dime and the laptop I borrowed always got the job done.

On Thursday night, I turned on the laptop, only to find out it would no longer boot up.

My son's 3 1/2 years of life photos are on that computer. I knew better than to store the photos on a laptop but convenience is a good thing.

Thankfully, we had saved most on a external drive at home.

Still.

The school district computer gurus hold the fate of my computer in their hands.

Oy.  I really hate to think we are going to lose year 3 due to a computer glich.

Keep your fingers crossed that all will be well!

Good-Bye National Board Certification!!

Six months (or so) I signed up for National Boards Certification.  It is a program that requires 400 hours (about 10 weeks) of worktime, in addition, to a regular teaching schedule in which you videotape several lessons, write 15-20 page papers, and show evidence of how your lessons are effective teaching for student learning.

At the time, I needed a challenge.  The National Boards is a great program.  It helps a teacher to break down his/her teaching and reflect on what is working and what isn't working.  In our state, less than 1% of PE teachers are certified.  I admit, the esteem of being one of the few to reach certification was as appealing to me as the challenge of becoming a "student' once again.

When I accepted the new job as Activity Coordinator/Dean of Students, I realized there was no way I could also do National Boards.  Not only am I not in a PE classroom setting, I don't have the time to commit to the program.  After further conversations with my administrative team, it became very clear that doing NB this year would be foolish.  I sent an email a week or so ago, inquiring about how to be released and received an email that stated they could make it work for me, despite the new job.

That answer wasn't good enough for me.  I needed out of NB.   So, today, I sent an email stating, "I wish to be released" and...the next thing I know, I'm released!

Oh, the freedom!  The relief!  The joy!  

Maybe someday I'll seek the certification.

But I doubt it.

Baby On The Mind

Lately, I can't stop thinking about having another baby.  Seems like only yesterday that I spent my days, cuddling and napping on the couch with this little guy.

I miss having a baby in the house.

No, we are not having another baby.  I am not pregnant, nor do I have any plans to become so.

There are moments when "baby fever" sneaks up on me and I'm floored with the desire to have another baby.

 The three of us went to see Toy Story 3 last night.  The movie came out months ago and every time we saw a commerical, I cried.  Big crocodille tears.  So, it came as no surprise that I bawled like a baby throughout the movie.  Oh, I smiled, too.  And I laughed.  But, *spoiler alert*  for those of you who have seen it, and you know the ending where the toys are on the lawn with Bonnie and Andy...well, I bawled. 

Alexander starts preschool on Thursday.  My baby is going to school.  The beginning of a new chapter and of the three of us, I'm the least ready for the change.  

  I have to trust total strangers to make sure he wears his coat outside, doesn't eat peanuts, and teach him social skills.  Up until now, that has been my job. 

My job is changing.

Is it so wrong that I want another baby so I can have my job back?

And I STILL love my job - split pants and all!

Recap of today's events:

7:45am - Pants split while bending to pick up a box of handbooks in the book room (thankfully, I was alone).    Ended up spending the day in sweats, trying to act all administrative-like while speaking to classes about the handbook and school rules.  

Yes.  You may laugh.

 The Rip.

8:45-12:45 - Full power outage. Really, do I need to say more?

1:30-2:15PM- Kick off assembly with new sound system in gym. Power outage messed up the settings with system and lighting but kids were awesome about the issues.  The perfectionist in me wanted to throw up.

3:15 - 5:30pm - Home with boys.  Ate dinner and hung out.  And changed into jeans.  Let's hope they hold up better than today's clothing selection.

5:30-11pm - Supervision at football game and after game dance.  

11:30PM - Beer in hand.

And I loved every minute...well, except the part where my ass was hanging out of my pants.

Job Update

I love it.

It's fast paced. It's constant problem solving and decision making.  It's listening to people, without fixing their issues.  It's validating others without giving advice (unless it is asked for).  And it is interacting with students and staff in a different role but as the same Michelle.  Does that even make sense?  

Let me break it down for you.

It is leadership camp every single day.

I have my own office in the hub of the school.  I love that staff and students stop by, even if it is to pick up a piece of candy.  I love that my sweet mom sewed and ironed tablecloths for the tables in my office because she said it needed color.

She's right.

I'm wearing grown up clothes and it takes me 20 minutes longer in the morning to figure out what I'm going to wear.  I shopped all weekend, hit sales, and pretended I actually have the money to pay for all the clothes.

I have blisters covering my toes due to these rookie feet, which never ever EVER wear heels.

More importantly, I love the excuse to accessorize the outfits.  Seriously love it.

Apparently, they think I'm so important that they gave me this as an accessory.

It doesn't match my outfits.  It's bulky.  I don't really know what to do with it because it is awkward to carry. And the battery is constantly falling off the back when I try to talk so I end up fumbling to put the battery back in just to repeat myself 3 times.   More than once, I've hooked up the battery, only to hear someone else laughing on the other end!  Can't say I blame them.

 

Maybe I'll ask the technology team for Secret Service earbuds instead.

Now, that would be a cool accessory.

Right?

A picture says a thousand words

I saw this image in a presentation today.  I couldn't help but think how it symbolizes my new job and how I never know what is going to happen once I arrive at work.  There are problems to be solved.  Decisions to be made.  Conversations to be had.  And even if I don't know the final destination,  there is always a path to take.  

Oh, this job makes my heart sing. 

And the kids haven't even shown up yet!!

THE Job

On Monday night, I accepted a new job.  I have a fancy new title and everything. I also get to wear this blue fuzzy, feather thing around my neck on spirit days.  Whenever I want.  Because I'm the ASB teacher and showing spirit is my job as a role model.  

If only they knew, how much I actually get a kick out of spirit days.  And wearing blue, fuzzy, feather things around my neck.

By Tuesday night, I was having nightmares that my boss fired me.  After 12 hours.  Gotta love self-doubt.

By Wednesday night, I couldn't turn my mind off.  But my old office has been emptied and I'm slowly moving into the new one.  I spent most of the day hugging happy staff members and cheering with excited ASB kids.  It was awesome.

Now, it's Thursday morning.  Really early Thursday morning. 

And I'm working at my kitchen table.  In my bathrobe.  Drinking my second cup of coffee.

I haven't even made a dent in my emails that have poured in over the last several days.  But I have a better idea of what my calendar looks like (the planner in me needs a calendar), I have several lists going (we all know how I love a good list), I found the immunization paperwork for Alexander (required for preschool), and I'm about to tackle my class syllabus (I'm teaching leadership instead of PE this year).

I'm pretty sure I'm going to love this new job.  I may never sleep again...but I am going to love it.

Interview of a lifetime

Our weekend in Chelan has come to an end.

It was the best weekend, spent with the ladies of my family and our kids.  Pool time with the kids.  Cocktails and cribbage with my sister.   Needless to say, a whole lot of sunkissed skin came home today. 

Now I sit here, wine glass in hand, thankful for my sweet husband who deep cleaned the house when we were gone (not kidding) and is giving our son a bath while I update blogs and read emails.

On Monday morning, I have an interview for a new job.  I haven't been overly nervous about the job interview because a year ago, my heart was already broken over not receiving this same job position.  But heartache doesn't mean you back down and when the chance came again, I took it.  Eric has been so supportive and wonderful about it.  Either way, the man still loves me and wants what is best for me.  Isn't that the best feeling?  I think so.

I received great advice out of the blue, via text, about the interview a few minutes ago.  "Don't kiss their arse, you will make the program way better so make sure they know what to expect.  Other than that, don't worry because realistically, the decision has been made."  This is advice from a 19 year old former student.  He and I worked together for two years in the program and I believe his advice is dead on. It doesn't mean I won't go in and try but politically, I do feel the chances are slim.  Surprisingly, I'm ok with it.

All I can do is my best.  I will wear my fancy clothes, be professional, and give them ME. I can't control the outcome,even if I believe, in my heart of hearts, that I am the best person for this job. 

By the end of this week, I will either be celebrating or commiserating.  Either way, it will be the right decision for our family

BUT, if you have a few minutes around say, 9:30AM, I would love a few happy thoughts thrown my way!

Camping...Laundry...Chelan!

Three days camping.

Awesome.

Three days in Chelan.

Double Awesome.

It is no wonder I start the school year tired!

My oh-so-exciting Saturday night

I'm working on my National Board Certification.

On a Saturday night.  In the summer.

What the hell was I thinking, when I volunteered for this program?

Seriously.

I'm an idiot.

I'd make a terrible doctor...or nurse, for that matter

I came home from leadership camp with a cold.  I spent most of the week, feeling awful.  But being sick didn't stop me.  It never does.  Life doesn't need to come to a screeching halt, just because of a cold.

Alexander caught the cold, just days after I returned home.  He had a fever of 102 one night but is now spending his days coughing, sneezing, and blowing his nose like Warehouse Mouse (gotta use whatever method I can use, right?).  He's on the mend, though.

Eric woke up on Thursday...with the cold.  He has a fever, is coughing, sneezing and blowing his nose like Warehouse Mouse.  He's actually upright today but, according to him, he is still a few days away from feeling like he wants to be a member of the human race again.  Poor guy just feels terrible.

I can't stand that these two are sick.  And I don't mean I can't stand it as in "I feel so badly for them".  I mean, I can't stand it because I can't stand people being sick around me.  I have no patience for sick people.  It's a flaw that I can't overcome and is deeply embedded in me.  It's why I never go to the doctor.  Sick people bug me.

But, like a good mom and wife,  I go through the motions of buying tissue and juice for the patients.  I fix chicken noodle soup, wash dirty linens, clean up gross tissues (boys have no concept of cleaning these things up!), and ask if there is anything I can get them, over and over again.  Meanwhile, I'm secretly irritated that they are sick and resent the fact that life doesn't stop for me, as well.  It's completely irrational.  Not very nice.  And I have to be very careful that I'm not overly rude to either of them.

I'm not proud of it but it is who I am.  So, it's a good thing I didn't go in the medical world.  I have a terrible bedside manner!

A New Battle

I have Hypothyroidism  -  a medical condition in which the thyroid gland doesn't produce enough thyroid hormone to regulate the body. The function of the thyroid is to regulate the body's metabolism to help us stay in great shape.  So, when the thyroid doesn't work, the metabolism isn't regulated.  No matter how much I was exercising or watching what I was eating, my metabolism was out of whack and I wasn't going to be able to be in shape. 

In other words, this measly little gland, 

controls everything in my world. 

 

I am currently the size I was in 2000, when I started Weight Watchers for the first time. I can remember January 1, 2000, when I made the conscious decision to take control. I lost the weight, felt great, and maintained that weight loss for seven years.  And then...pregnancy.

Pregnancy reeked havoc on my control and my body.  I foolishly gave myself permission to eat whatever I wanted, whenever I wanted.  Fortunately, I didn't balloon too badly and it didn't take long for most of the weight to disappear - all but ten pounds.  It was during this time that I was diagnosed with hypothyroidism. I have been on medication since 2007 and haven't had to do more than a yearly exam to make sure the medication was still working.

Let's fast forward...

In March, I had my thyroid readjusted for the first time in three years.  In May/June, I found myself needing it adjusted again.  I admit, this was rather confusing to me - to go from not requiring any adjustment in three years, to needing it done twice in less than six months?  I was following WW and running 15-20 miles a week so shouldn't my metabolism have leveled out?  Turns out the answer is a solid NO and I put on weight during that time. And there really is nothing more frustrating than working hard, having total focus on being healthy, and your body rejects the act and actually adds pounds to your frame!  And when the thyroid doesn't work, I end up depressed and fatigued, which doesn't help with my mental psyche.  To be honest, it is a pretty bitter cycle.  And really, all I want is to drop 10 lbs!

I had my thyroid reassessed in June (right around the RNR) and started new medication the first of July.  My doctor told me that the running is having a direct effect on the thyroid function due to the increase in my metabolism and as long as I run, I will have to keep a closer eye on my thyroid function.  I tell ya, that little gland really has too much power in my body!  

I happened to be talking about it at camp and someone asked if I had embraced this thyroid of mine.  If I was ready to accept that I can still have control but with new parameters.  The question made me think.  When it comes down to it, am I ready to let go of this last excuse and face the hard work of becoming healthy?

Answer:  YES.

I've decided it is time to embrace my little gland, rather than fight it.  Since starting the medication, one month later, I've dropped 5 lbs, without thinking about it.  I'm running again and dusted off the WW books.  I've marked November 1 to remind myself to have another blood draw done so I can stay ahead of the battle. 

I'm going to eat healthy, even if the thyroid battle continues.  I'm going to continue running, even if the thyroid battle continues.  I'm going to make healthy choices and have control over my body image issues, even if the thyroid battle continues.  The thyroid battle is NO LONGER AN EXCUSE. 

I am going to lose these 10 lbs. How can I lose the battle, now that I have let go of all the excuses?

Who doesn't love a mini-vacay?

Before the school year craziness begins, we planned TWO mini-vacays for next week.  Who doesn't love a mini-vacay, right?

First, we're going camping  with Big Papa and Umma.

Last year, we found a state park, with sites large enough to accomodate the house-on-wheels, about 30 minutes from home.  

Alexander will spend the first night with his grandparents, giving his daddy and mommy a date night and then we'll drive over and spend the next few days with them.  One of the perks of having summers off is we can do these types of things in the middle of the week and not worry about large crowds!

At the end of the week, Alexander and Mommy are going to join Auntie Kimmie, Lorelli and Umma for a few days of R&R at 

Daddy is staying home for his little mini-vacay.  We are lucky to have family members gracious enough to1)  loan us a condo for the weekend and 2) let us spend the day by the pool/lake side at their condo (different from the one we are staying at, if you can't follow what I'm saying).  Now that the little guy has passed his first swimming class, it will be really fun to see how he does with the freedom of wearing a Puddle Jumper jacket.  And I'm looking forward to the sunshine and laughter as we relax for a few days in the sunshine.

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Ramblings

Some days, my thoughts just ramble...

• I can count on one hand the number of times my son has been sick (2 times) in the past 3 1/2 years.  He has the immune system of a horse.  But this time, the cold I brought home from camp was too much for him.  Throughout the day yesterday, Alexander's cough became worse and worse and he started complaining about being cold and then hot.  About 11PM, we gave him Children's Motrin.  When his fever hit 102, I decided to sleep on his floor.  Over reaction?  Absolutely.  Would I do it again?  Absolutely.  Fingers crossed that his fever has broken - for good.
  
  
• Since Alexander is sick, we can't go to the bouncy house for Jack's birthday party today.  Totally bummed because I know how much fun it would have been for the little man.
  
  
• Summer time is not supposed to start with grey, foggy days that slowly burn off to the sunshine.  If I wanted to live on the ocean coast, I would.  The only good thing is that the weather is perfect for morning runs.
  
  
• I'm enjoying running shorter distances these days.  I ran 5 miles on Saturday and it felt great.  I remember the days when running 1 or 2 miles felt like a huge accomplishment and now I don't want to do anything less than 5!
  
  
• I lost 5 lbs at camp (camp food = grossness) and I'm working to lose another 5 before school starts.
  
  
• Speaking  of school, there could be a job change in my future...stay tuned and send positive thoughts as it is a change for the better. 
  
  
• I don't like having an empty calendar.  I love to fill it with playdates, adventures and events to look forward to.  But this week is very clear.  So clear that the only thing I have to look forward to is a trip to Target today.  Pathetic?  Absolutely. 
  
  
• But a clear schedule means it is time to re-read the Twilight books.  Team Edward?  Team Jacob? Which team are you on?

What a difference

It seems like a lifetime ago that...

I was laughing with former-students-turned-junior-counselors at camp.

For, in the next few weeks, studying for National Boards...

will become my national pastime (that is my blog on the screen).

Extreme Trains will be my background noise...

as I use a DVD to keep my son entertained. 

Which makes me ever so grateful for...

















even if it can't numb the guilt in my heart.