Wednesday, December 31, 2003
Holiday Festivities in CA...
Back from a week out west. Feels good to be home and sleeping in our own bed. Currently listening to the fabulous CDs that were waiting for us upon our return last night- Best of Burning Ring and Anzo's U-Turn (thank you).
The trip to see family was interesting, yet one of the best family gatherings I think we've had in a long time. Some highlights:
T and Korak pissed off my dad first day and he proceeded to sulk all day long.
After a large family dinner on Christmas Eve, we were sitting around the table chatting when my dad says, "I'll be upstairs until the guests get here." Right, Em and Korak traveled from Seattle, T and I from NYC, and my brother from Huntington Beach, yet apparently we aren't "guests."
Usual tequila tasting, but not as severe as in years past.
Played Poker on BSM's new felt table and Em and I the only women. Surrounded by men that kept telling Em how to play "right", she went on to clean everyone off the table.
San Diego to see T's dad, stepmom, brother and sister-in-law for a couple of days. Went to the San Diego Zoo - it was as crowded as Disneyland- lines everywhere.
Tons of coughing and sneezing people on the airplanes- thank god for AIRBORNE!
Louise survived 7 days without us.
Found out a friend of T's is being followed and videotaped by private investigators due to a worker's comp. suit against her employer .
My brother guilted me about not making time to hang out with his girlfriend who was out of town for most of our trip out there. So much for pleasing everyone!
T's older brother got upset about T calling him a dumbass...I guess we all get more sensitive as we age. Resulted in a good heart to heart among brothers.
Seeing old friends is always great! I hear Em and Korak even visited with an old high school friend while on their trip.
And, T's (narcissistic matriach) grandma was unusually pleasant and sweet to me this trip....hmm
Back from a week out west. Feels good to be home and sleeping in our own bed. Currently listening to the fabulous CDs that were waiting for us upon our return last night- Best of Burning Ring and Anzo's U-Turn (thank you).
The trip to see family was interesting, yet one of the best family gatherings I think we've had in a long time. Some highlights:
T and Korak pissed off my dad first day and he proceeded to sulk all day long.
After a large family dinner on Christmas Eve, we were sitting around the table chatting when my dad says, "I'll be upstairs until the guests get here." Right, Em and Korak traveled from Seattle, T and I from NYC, and my brother from Huntington Beach, yet apparently we aren't "guests."
Usual tequila tasting, but not as severe as in years past.
Played Poker on BSM's new felt table and Em and I the only women. Surrounded by men that kept telling Em how to play "right", she went on to clean everyone off the table.
San Diego to see T's dad, stepmom, brother and sister-in-law for a couple of days. Went to the San Diego Zoo - it was as crowded as Disneyland- lines everywhere.
Tons of coughing and sneezing people on the airplanes- thank god for AIRBORNE!
Louise survived 7 days without us.
Found out a friend of T's is being followed and videotaped by private investigators due to a worker's comp. suit against her employer .
My brother guilted me about not making time to hang out with his girlfriend who was out of town for most of our trip out there. So much for pleasing everyone!
T's older brother got upset about T calling him a dumbass...I guess we all get more sensitive as we age. Resulted in a good heart to heart among brothers.
Seeing old friends is always great! I hear Em and Korak even visited with an old high school friend while on their trip.
And, T's (narcissistic matriach) grandma was unusually pleasant and sweet to me this trip....hmm
Monday, December 22, 2003
Whirlwind Weekend...
Yikes...The holiday is now upon us. Happy Winter to all, especially to me who is now officially on vacation. Two glorious weeks- part of which will be spent in sunny, 65 degree Southern California. Yippee! This weekend was a decedent introduction into the gluttonous behavior we seem to indulge in during these holidays of eating, eating, and more eating.
Friday T brought hamster Louise into the class so my students could meet them. They were so excited and full of energy. They loved watching Louise roll around in her ball and adored T telling jokes. My special needs student turned to T and said, "You know you aren't that funny" and a couple of the flirty girls said, "Ms. *****, he's SO cute" when T left. Before school let out I gave the students their holiday gifts which really seemed to brighten their day even more. I made them all Louise bookmarks, cute apple frames with a picture of themselves, and a gave a deck of cards. Not too extravagant, but they loved it- "Ms. *****, you are the best teacher ever" was the best compliment I could get this time of year! I was thrilled they liked their gifts so much. Today was our Winter Celebration in class and the parents really did their part by sending in all sorts of goodies. One parent even brought in three roast chickens, pasta salad, and cake. Whoa- the food was delicious! Very sweet and gracious parents which makes it worthwhile (I need to remind myself of these days when I feel like quitting).
Saturday T took me to a belated birthday dinner at a lovely, romantic restaurant in the Village. We saw two proposals during our three hour dinner of froi gras, duck terrine, Beef Wellington, and chocolate soufflette (sp?). Yes, it was a special evening!
Sunday a girlfriend of mine that I used to live with in Seattle came into Brooklyn for the afternoon. It was so nice to see Leslie and to catch up in person (we haven't seen each other in over two years). I got to show her around my "hood" and had a lovely brunch in Park Slope. I wish we had more time, but she had to get back to her sweetie in Long Island and T and I had a 30th B-day party to attend. One of T's best friends, Shel, turned 30 Sunday and we dined exquisitely again on lobsters and sangria before heading to the ever lovely Gramercy Park Hotel for drinks. Enjoyable evening with friends...Too bad I had to work today!
As I will leave my faithful computer for a while, I wish everyone a happy holiday and can't wait to share stories when I return to blogging!
Yikes...The holiday is now upon us. Happy Winter to all, especially to me who is now officially on vacation. Two glorious weeks- part of which will be spent in sunny, 65 degree Southern California. Yippee! This weekend was a decedent introduction into the gluttonous behavior we seem to indulge in during these holidays of eating, eating, and more eating.
Friday T brought hamster Louise into the class so my students could meet them. They were so excited and full of energy. They loved watching Louise roll around in her ball and adored T telling jokes. My special needs student turned to T and said, "You know you aren't that funny" and a couple of the flirty girls said, "Ms. *****, he's SO cute" when T left. Before school let out I gave the students their holiday gifts which really seemed to brighten their day even more. I made them all Louise bookmarks, cute apple frames with a picture of themselves, and a gave a deck of cards. Not too extravagant, but they loved it- "Ms. *****, you are the best teacher ever" was the best compliment I could get this time of year! I was thrilled they liked their gifts so much. Today was our Winter Celebration in class and the parents really did their part by sending in all sorts of goodies. One parent even brought in three roast chickens, pasta salad, and cake. Whoa- the food was delicious! Very sweet and gracious parents which makes it worthwhile (I need to remind myself of these days when I feel like quitting).
Saturday T took me to a belated birthday dinner at a lovely, romantic restaurant in the Village. We saw two proposals during our three hour dinner of froi gras, duck terrine, Beef Wellington, and chocolate soufflette (sp?). Yes, it was a special evening!
Sunday a girlfriend of mine that I used to live with in Seattle came into Brooklyn for the afternoon. It was so nice to see Leslie and to catch up in person (we haven't seen each other in over two years). I got to show her around my "hood" and had a lovely brunch in Park Slope. I wish we had more time, but she had to get back to her sweetie in Long Island and T and I had a 30th B-day party to attend. One of T's best friends, Shel, turned 30 Sunday and we dined exquisitely again on lobsters and sangria before heading to the ever lovely Gramercy Park Hotel for drinks. Enjoyable evening with friends...Too bad I had to work today!
As I will leave my faithful computer for a while, I wish everyone a happy holiday and can't wait to share stories when I return to blogging!
Thursday, December 18, 2003
A Special Day for a Special (needs) Boy...
I have a special needs student in my class this year that breaks my heart. There is suspected abuse going on at home in which the Child Protective Services have been contacted about 6 times in the last 18 months. Nothing is "found" in these investigations, but it's still sad to hear about and sad to see such a solemn, down face on a cutie, little 8 year old boy.
This little guy is Mr. Negativity. I think he is so used to being mistreated at home that the only way he knows how to get attention is by acting out for it. The negative attention seeker is always the killer for me as a teacher because it's hard not to get on the kid's ass, but you also know you shouldn't because that's what the kid wants. Tough to balance in a room of 26 "animals." However, I have really tried to watch myself and look out for this little guy (especially since I really found out all that he's going through).
He doesn't read much (about a kindergarten level) and has a hard time with fine motor skills (writing is a slow, meticulous process). He doesn't seem to be interested in doing any school work and never has any ideas to share. When we pick books to read he'll say he doesn't like to read because the books are dumb. When we pick a topic to write about, he'll say he has never had anything happen to him that he could write about. When we do math, he doesn't understand the concepts and just shuts down. He will sit on the rug with the rest of the students and make noises or just talk to himself and distract the others. He'll sit on the hard wood floors and twirl on his butt and screech like a monkey. He'll go in the coat closet, shut the doors, and bang on them like crazy. He can't speak very well and it's hard to communicate with him because he gets frustrated with his stuttering and inability to find words to fit what he wants to say. It really is a test of patience. But, I try- and today I think I succeeded.
Little guy came in to school today and started working right away. He wrote the problem of the day down, came to me to read it to him, and tried to solve the math problem using pictures. I had to prompt him just a little bit and he got the answers mostly on his own. Put tears in my eyes to see this work! I even made a photocopy of the page to put on the fridge at home to remind myself why I do what I do. During writing workshop, he followed me around wanting my help until I got the rest of the class settled and could work one-on-one with him. At the beginning of the year I was told not to do this because he was a "wasted case" and I should focus on my more advanced, successful students. I sat with him and asked him what he knew a lot about to write (we are studying nonfiction writing right now). Instead of the usual "I don't know anything", he said "basketball" right away. He dictated to me and I wrote it all out for him. Yes, this is standard practice for beginning writers (usually done in lower grades, but this kid should be in a lower grade). When we finished, he smiled at me, and said, "If we are done now, can I go get a book to read?"
I don't even know what to say about this change of events. I really hope he is starting to feel good about himself and that's what's bringing on this change of work behavior. Whatever it is, it makes me proud to know this child and privileged to say I am his teacher. I had to call T at lunch to share with him too- this really was a HUGE day in this little guy's life (well, at least according to me)!
I have a special needs student in my class this year that breaks my heart. There is suspected abuse going on at home in which the Child Protective Services have been contacted about 6 times in the last 18 months. Nothing is "found" in these investigations, but it's still sad to hear about and sad to see such a solemn, down face on a cutie, little 8 year old boy.
This little guy is Mr. Negativity. I think he is so used to being mistreated at home that the only way he knows how to get attention is by acting out for it. The negative attention seeker is always the killer for me as a teacher because it's hard not to get on the kid's ass, but you also know you shouldn't because that's what the kid wants. Tough to balance in a room of 26 "animals." However, I have really tried to watch myself and look out for this little guy (especially since I really found out all that he's going through).
He doesn't read much (about a kindergarten level) and has a hard time with fine motor skills (writing is a slow, meticulous process). He doesn't seem to be interested in doing any school work and never has any ideas to share. When we pick books to read he'll say he doesn't like to read because the books are dumb. When we pick a topic to write about, he'll say he has never had anything happen to him that he could write about. When we do math, he doesn't understand the concepts and just shuts down. He will sit on the rug with the rest of the students and make noises or just talk to himself and distract the others. He'll sit on the hard wood floors and twirl on his butt and screech like a monkey. He'll go in the coat closet, shut the doors, and bang on them like crazy. He can't speak very well and it's hard to communicate with him because he gets frustrated with his stuttering and inability to find words to fit what he wants to say. It really is a test of patience. But, I try- and today I think I succeeded.
Little guy came in to school today and started working right away. He wrote the problem of the day down, came to me to read it to him, and tried to solve the math problem using pictures. I had to prompt him just a little bit and he got the answers mostly on his own. Put tears in my eyes to see this work! I even made a photocopy of the page to put on the fridge at home to remind myself why I do what I do. During writing workshop, he followed me around wanting my help until I got the rest of the class settled and could work one-on-one with him. At the beginning of the year I was told not to do this because he was a "wasted case" and I should focus on my more advanced, successful students. I sat with him and asked him what he knew a lot about to write (we are studying nonfiction writing right now). Instead of the usual "I don't know anything", he said "basketball" right away. He dictated to me and I wrote it all out for him. Yes, this is standard practice for beginning writers (usually done in lower grades, but this kid should be in a lower grade). When we finished, he smiled at me, and said, "If we are done now, can I go get a book to read?"
I don't even know what to say about this change of events. I really hope he is starting to feel good about himself and that's what's bringing on this change of work behavior. Whatever it is, it makes me proud to know this child and privileged to say I am his teacher. I had to call T at lunch to share with him too- this really was a HUGE day in this little guy's life (well, at least according to me)!
Wednesday, December 17, 2003
Another Year Older...
Yep...It's that time of year...The anniversary of my birth. I must admit, I've had an awfully good goddamn birthday this year.
There are so many good "gifters" out there...You know, people who give the best gifts because they really understand you or just because they have good taste and know what you would like (even when you yourself don't realize the gift they give is exactly what you wanted but didn't know it until you have it in your hands).
My sis is a classic example of a good gifter. Every year she manages to drum up a particularly exciting and perfect gift with, what seems, little effort. Me...I stress over gift giving- I'm a bad gifter. While I was at Em's place over Thanksgiving weekend, I picked up a cool mag that's published right here in Brooklyn (actually a few blocks from where I live). I was very entertained by this magazine and even took a page out to bring home to look into getting it for myself. Forgot all about it until a few days ago I came home from work to find an issue in my mailbox waiting for me. Yep, Em ordered the magazine and started a subscription for me. What a great sistah!
T is another great gifter. Last year he bought me the On the Road audio CD collection. If you know me, you know that book changed my world back when I was 14 (again, the book a gift from my sister). He also bought me lots of warm socks for my winter trips to NYC...Yes, I take after my mother- my feet seem to always be cold. So, last month T gave me a rolling backpack for my school commuting. Today, he gave me a great fondue set (I guess a have inadvertently mentioned my craving for fondue over the last year and he decided it was time to take action. So good!) and a gift certificate to buy myself some new boots at John Fluevog. A gift certificate may seem like an easy way out...A bad gift, but oh, quite the opposite. This is a classic example of a good gifter at his finest. Here's the story behind this great, thoughtful, albeit funny, gift:
It was Thanksgiving 2002 in Seattle, WA. I was living in CA and T was living in NYC. We were doing the long distance thing and met in Seattle for the long weekend. The night after Thanksgiving as we were drifting off to sleep, I started complaining about how broke I was. I was really talking budgets and figuring out how I was going to live in NYC with him if I could barely survive living with my folks rent free. I was really passionate and heated about trying to save money and trying to figure out where all my money was going. We talked money for a good hour or so. The next day as I was walking down 1st Avenue, by the Public Market, I saw the Fluevog store. I had to "pop in to see what they had in stock." $150 + tax later I was strutting out with a brand new pair of fabulous boots. Needless to say, T was not so pleased with me due to my stress over money the night before. That afternoon marked our very first lover's quarrel. Such a momentous occasion! This year when we arrived in Seattle for turkey celebration, there were many jabbing comments about the boots and the restrictions to shopping while in town (because this time I really was broke). So, when I opened my card today and there it was "Put this towards a new pair of boots" and out popped the Fluevog bucks, I new this was definitely a thoughtful gift. From those who know this story, you are right- T DOES have a great sense of humor (and sense of humiliation).
Yep...It's that time of year...The anniversary of my birth. I must admit, I've had an awfully good goddamn birthday this year.
There are so many good "gifters" out there...You know, people who give the best gifts because they really understand you or just because they have good taste and know what you would like (even when you yourself don't realize the gift they give is exactly what you wanted but didn't know it until you have it in your hands).
My sis is a classic example of a good gifter. Every year she manages to drum up a particularly exciting and perfect gift with, what seems, little effort. Me...I stress over gift giving- I'm a bad gifter. While I was at Em's place over Thanksgiving weekend, I picked up a cool mag that's published right here in Brooklyn (actually a few blocks from where I live). I was very entertained by this magazine and even took a page out to bring home to look into getting it for myself. Forgot all about it until a few days ago I came home from work to find an issue in my mailbox waiting for me. Yep, Em ordered the magazine and started a subscription for me. What a great sistah!
T is another great gifter. Last year he bought me the On the Road audio CD collection. If you know me, you know that book changed my world back when I was 14 (again, the book a gift from my sister). He also bought me lots of warm socks for my winter trips to NYC...Yes, I take after my mother- my feet seem to always be cold. So, last month T gave me a rolling backpack for my school commuting. Today, he gave me a great fondue set (I guess a have inadvertently mentioned my craving for fondue over the last year and he decided it was time to take action. So good!) and a gift certificate to buy myself some new boots at John Fluevog. A gift certificate may seem like an easy way out...A bad gift, but oh, quite the opposite. This is a classic example of a good gifter at his finest. Here's the story behind this great, thoughtful, albeit funny, gift:
It was Thanksgiving 2002 in Seattle, WA. I was living in CA and T was living in NYC. We were doing the long distance thing and met in Seattle for the long weekend. The night after Thanksgiving as we were drifting off to sleep, I started complaining about how broke I was. I was really talking budgets and figuring out how I was going to live in NYC with him if I could barely survive living with my folks rent free. I was really passionate and heated about trying to save money and trying to figure out where all my money was going. We talked money for a good hour or so. The next day as I was walking down 1st Avenue, by the Public Market, I saw the Fluevog store. I had to "pop in to see what they had in stock." $150 + tax later I was strutting out with a brand new pair of fabulous boots. Needless to say, T was not so pleased with me due to my stress over money the night before. That afternoon marked our very first lover's quarrel. Such a momentous occasion! This year when we arrived in Seattle for turkey celebration, there were many jabbing comments about the boots and the restrictions to shopping while in town (because this time I really was broke). So, when I opened my card today and there it was "Put this towards a new pair of boots" and out popped the Fluevog bucks, I new this was definitely a thoughtful gift. From those who know this story, you are right- T DOES have a great sense of humor (and sense of humiliation).
Monday, December 15, 2003
Monday Night Football...
So with T doing commercials, we watch plenty of TV to try and see his spots (especially the upgrades=residual checks). Because he's in a new football campaign for Pepsi, we watch Monday Night Football now. The beginning promos slay me- seriously, the first week we watched, the beginning to the show started and I had to check the channel to make sure I wasn't accidentally on MTV. I was left speechless with an open mouth, gazing confused at the television. "What the fuck was that?" I repeated over and over again. Now every week it's "Which freak show will grace us with their presence this week?"
"Are You Ready For Some Football?" now has a big time introduction. Usually the band that opens the game or sings at half-time is the opening act to the whole football spectacular.
Tonight's beginning was funny...My man Vince Vaughn did the opening introductions to the two teams playing and quoted a line from the movie "Dirty Dancing." God, he's a funny, funny man...Remember, "Nobody puts Baby in the corner." Well, must go watch this spectacle! Enjoy your Monday night!
So with T doing commercials, we watch plenty of TV to try and see his spots (especially the upgrades=residual checks). Because he's in a new football campaign for Pepsi, we watch Monday Night Football now. The beginning promos slay me- seriously, the first week we watched, the beginning to the show started and I had to check the channel to make sure I wasn't accidentally on MTV. I was left speechless with an open mouth, gazing confused at the television. "What the fuck was that?" I repeated over and over again. Now every week it's "Which freak show will grace us with their presence this week?"
"Are You Ready For Some Football?" now has a big time introduction. Usually the band that opens the game or sings at half-time is the opening act to the whole football spectacular.
Tonight's beginning was funny...My man Vince Vaughn did the opening introductions to the two teams playing and quoted a line from the movie "Dirty Dancing." God, he's a funny, funny man...Remember, "Nobody puts Baby in the corner." Well, must go watch this spectacle! Enjoy your Monday night!
Sunday, December 14, 2003
People...
Everyday I'm amazed by people. Here are some highlights:
Last week I was driving to work and saw a blind man crossing 4th Avenue at 23rd Street (Brooklyn). I was amazed at his ability to navigate across the busy street. How did he know when the light changes for him to walk? Does he listen to the traffic patterns?
My sister and I never really had a solid relationship growing up. There always seemed to be competition between us which made us pretty distant (normal for siblings, I know). Now, I feel I can tell her anything and share the experiences in my life without reservation or hesitation. So amazing to have this friendship!
I was walking to the subway Friday after school and some high school kids were all decked out in their red and black gang gear chillin' on a stoop. Some itty elementary kids were running down the street shouting things to each other and being silly kids. These high schoolers cussed at them and said some nasty things about their need to "calm the fuck down." The little kids didn't bat an eye...They looked at the high schoolers and told them to "shut the fuck up" and ran off down the street. Amazing how young we learn the survival mechanism.
T has never really dated...I call him the serial relationship guy. He's had girlfriends since junior high school, and was quite the "advanced" boy, but always seemed to have relationships- never just a hook up or one night stand. Me? I was all about the casual until T. Even now when we talk about our past I'm amazed how monogamous he is (and repeat to myself how lucky I am to have finally found a great fucking man).
My brother is quite gullible (or at least was when he was a few years younger). In college, some of his friends convinced him the movie "Celtic Pride" was the best movie they'd ever seen and tried to get BSM to become as enthusiastic about seeing it too- to fool him, of course. His friends also convinced him some great band was coming to play at our college for free. Poor BSM was so excited! Maybe I'm too cynical now, but I am amazed about his sweet and honest look on life. I watched the worst movie I've ever seen tonight ("The Hulk") and really wanted to call him to rave about it to see if I could fool him into watching it. Is that wrong?
My dad began getting family tickets for "A Christmas Carol" at a local theater in CA about 4-5 years ago. I think the first year we all went (or some of us- I'm not even sure I went that year) because we thought it was a one time thing- for the family as we reunited from all over the place to be together for the holidays. However, my father wanted to make this viewing an annual tradition. He gets tickets every year and every year most of us find a way NOT to be there to see this horrible performance. The play is great- this theater company is HORRIBLE! I am amazed at the guilt trips he lays on us. "We aren't participating in a family tradition" he says- this is something he started when we were all adults and out of the house. Maybe it's a tradition for he and my mom, but not for the rest of us. Almost makes me not want to return to their house for the holidays anymore- the "older" person guilt gets really bad when they hit a certain age. Here are his comments to my turning down the play after explaining T and I's all day travel plans will make us too tired to attend: Yes, I know. But before getting rid of the tickets, I just wanted to make the "offer" once again. As you all know, I feel this is a story that merits remembering at least once a year (and it means something to dear-old dad too). Sorry that none of you will make it this year.
Everyday I'm amazed by people. Here are some highlights:
Last week I was driving to work and saw a blind man crossing 4th Avenue at 23rd Street (Brooklyn). I was amazed at his ability to navigate across the busy street. How did he know when the light changes for him to walk? Does he listen to the traffic patterns?
My sister and I never really had a solid relationship growing up. There always seemed to be competition between us which made us pretty distant (normal for siblings, I know). Now, I feel I can tell her anything and share the experiences in my life without reservation or hesitation. So amazing to have this friendship!
I was walking to the subway Friday after school and some high school kids were all decked out in their red and black gang gear chillin' on a stoop. Some itty elementary kids were running down the street shouting things to each other and being silly kids. These high schoolers cussed at them and said some nasty things about their need to "calm the fuck down." The little kids didn't bat an eye...They looked at the high schoolers and told them to "shut the fuck up" and ran off down the street. Amazing how young we learn the survival mechanism.
T has never really dated...I call him the serial relationship guy. He's had girlfriends since junior high school, and was quite the "advanced" boy, but always seemed to have relationships- never just a hook up or one night stand. Me? I was all about the casual until T. Even now when we talk about our past I'm amazed how monogamous he is (and repeat to myself how lucky I am to have finally found a great fucking man).
My brother is quite gullible (or at least was when he was a few years younger). In college, some of his friends convinced him the movie "Celtic Pride" was the best movie they'd ever seen and tried to get BSM to become as enthusiastic about seeing it too- to fool him, of course. His friends also convinced him some great band was coming to play at our college for free. Poor BSM was so excited! Maybe I'm too cynical now, but I am amazed about his sweet and honest look on life. I watched the worst movie I've ever seen tonight ("The Hulk") and really wanted to call him to rave about it to see if I could fool him into watching it. Is that wrong?
My dad began getting family tickets for "A Christmas Carol" at a local theater in CA about 4-5 years ago. I think the first year we all went (or some of us- I'm not even sure I went that year) because we thought it was a one time thing- for the family as we reunited from all over the place to be together for the holidays. However, my father wanted to make this viewing an annual tradition. He gets tickets every year and every year most of us find a way NOT to be there to see this horrible performance. The play is great- this theater company is HORRIBLE! I am amazed at the guilt trips he lays on us. "We aren't participating in a family tradition" he says- this is something he started when we were all adults and out of the house. Maybe it's a tradition for he and my mom, but not for the rest of us. Almost makes me not want to return to their house for the holidays anymore- the "older" person guilt gets really bad when they hit a certain age. Here are his comments to my turning down the play after explaining T and I's all day travel plans will make us too tired to attend: Yes, I know. But before getting rid of the tickets, I just wanted to make the "offer" once again. As you all know, I feel this is a story that merits remembering at least once a year (and it means something to dear-old dad too). Sorry that none of you will make it this year.
Thursday, December 11, 2003
Cars...
Like my brother and sister, I never had a car in high school. We were "allowed" to drive our dad's company car (nice, tight leash from the parents on that one). I was never really bothered by it because when I started driving, Em and BSM were already out of the house and I didn't have to fight for a car.
When I was in college, I relied on mass transit (which in Tucson is a fucking nightmare) and friends for rides. BSM had the parent's old 77 Chevy Caprice that he gave me when he got his graduation gift- a brand new vehicle. The car did it's job- got me to work and back home every day. Couldn't take it over 20 miles because it would overheat and it had no power steering or air conditioning (summers were HOT). Some lunatic totaled my precious car and it was time for my "early graduation gift"- a used Toyota Paseo. The gift part is fucked up too because I essentially paid for it all out of my college trust fund. The little 2 seater did me well for 5 years. I got it with 60,000 miles and ended my run with her at over 160,000.
Oh my little Paseo...She took me to Arizona, Colorado, through Oregon, and into Washington. She was a good little car (except for the time she died on me in the middle of the California desert on I-10 during a hot August day). After my first year of teaching, I decided to get a new, more reliable car. I shopped around and chose a 2002 Honda Civic EX. I figured this would be a great car to have for a good 10+ years. I wanted to trade in my Paseo for some money down towards the Honda, but my dad believed he could sell the Paseo for more if he did it privately. So, the Paseo lived on the street in front of my parent's house for a year. I had told my father it was his responsibility to sell it because I didn't want the hassle anymore. I wanted to trade it in, get rid of it right away, but he wanted to try for more money. There it sat...
I drove my lovely new Honda out to NYC this past June and the Paseo still sat on the street. The registration was ignored and this past Monday it was finally towed. My mom called on Sunday to let me know they had been given two warnings and a ticket in the last three weeks. But, they couldn't move the car because it no longer started. For those of you who know the family- read this as the family van that still sits in the driveway like frickin' Sanford and Sons. So Monday it got towed and my mom called to figure out how to get the car back. They are SO clueless (or just SO responsible they've never had a car towed in their 35 years of driving)! It wasn't until last night- Wednesday night- that my dad called with the specifics on how to get the car out (it's still registered in my name). It had been sitting in the pound for two days now and he just decided to let me know. Then he explained they probably wouldn't be able to get the car out until Monday because they are out of town this weekend. Oh the money! This is where the story ended last night when I wrote my little note about the funny parent story.
Well, today was a new experience for me with having a car in NYC. I drove to work today (I don't drive all the time, but I do like to when the weather is horrible- rainy and windy today. I met up with a teacher friend (J) after work and we walked to the car. We got in, talking and laughing about the cutie speech therapist at school, when I looked to my side mirror to pull out. That's when I noticed I had NO side mirror anymore. We got out and looked around and there it was...In front of the car just lying there in the street. I laughed...If I didn't I would've cried. I can't believe it! Well, yes I can- I live in the double parking capital of America. Fuck- my brand new car...
Speaking of double parking...While in Seattle for Thanksgiving, I double parked and got tisked by a bus driver. Here they honk at you, yell at you, or just drive around. People in Seattle waited patiently behind me with confused looks on their faces as I waved them by from the window. A bus stopped several yards behind me and the driver actually got out of the bus, in the rain, to tap the car and tell me to move. Of course, we responded like New Yorkers- T yelled "Fuck You" and I took my sweet slow time moving forward.
Like my brother and sister, I never had a car in high school. We were "allowed" to drive our dad's company car (nice, tight leash from the parents on that one). I was never really bothered by it because when I started driving, Em and BSM were already out of the house and I didn't have to fight for a car.
When I was in college, I relied on mass transit (which in Tucson is a fucking nightmare) and friends for rides. BSM had the parent's old 77 Chevy Caprice that he gave me when he got his graduation gift- a brand new vehicle. The car did it's job- got me to work and back home every day. Couldn't take it over 20 miles because it would overheat and it had no power steering or air conditioning (summers were HOT). Some lunatic totaled my precious car and it was time for my "early graduation gift"- a used Toyota Paseo. The gift part is fucked up too because I essentially paid for it all out of my college trust fund. The little 2 seater did me well for 5 years. I got it with 60,000 miles and ended my run with her at over 160,000.
Oh my little Paseo...She took me to Arizona, Colorado, through Oregon, and into Washington. She was a good little car (except for the time she died on me in the middle of the California desert on I-10 during a hot August day). After my first year of teaching, I decided to get a new, more reliable car. I shopped around and chose a 2002 Honda Civic EX. I figured this would be a great car to have for a good 10+ years. I wanted to trade in my Paseo for some money down towards the Honda, but my dad believed he could sell the Paseo for more if he did it privately. So, the Paseo lived on the street in front of my parent's house for a year. I had told my father it was his responsibility to sell it because I didn't want the hassle anymore. I wanted to trade it in, get rid of it right away, but he wanted to try for more money. There it sat...
I drove my lovely new Honda out to NYC this past June and the Paseo still sat on the street. The registration was ignored and this past Monday it was finally towed. My mom called on Sunday to let me know they had been given two warnings and a ticket in the last three weeks. But, they couldn't move the car because it no longer started. For those of you who know the family- read this as the family van that still sits in the driveway like frickin' Sanford and Sons. So Monday it got towed and my mom called to figure out how to get the car back. They are SO clueless (or just SO responsible they've never had a car towed in their 35 years of driving)! It wasn't until last night- Wednesday night- that my dad called with the specifics on how to get the car out (it's still registered in my name). It had been sitting in the pound for two days now and he just decided to let me know. Then he explained they probably wouldn't be able to get the car out until Monday because they are out of town this weekend. Oh the money! This is where the story ended last night when I wrote my little note about the funny parent story.
Well, today was a new experience for me with having a car in NYC. I drove to work today (I don't drive all the time, but I do like to when the weather is horrible- rainy and windy today. I met up with a teacher friend (J) after work and we walked to the car. We got in, talking and laughing about the cutie speech therapist at school, when I looked to my side mirror to pull out. That's when I noticed I had NO side mirror anymore. We got out and looked around and there it was...In front of the car just lying there in the street. I laughed...If I didn't I would've cried. I can't believe it! Well, yes I can- I live in the double parking capital of America. Fuck- my brand new car...
Speaking of double parking...While in Seattle for Thanksgiving, I double parked and got tisked by a bus driver. Here they honk at you, yell at you, or just drive around. People in Seattle waited patiently behind me with confused looks on their faces as I waved them by from the window. A bus stopped several yards behind me and the driver actually got out of the bus, in the rain, to tap the car and tell me to move. Of course, we responded like New Yorkers- T yelled "Fuck You" and I took my sweet slow time moving forward.
Wednesday, December 10, 2003
Out of the Mouths of Babes...
So most of my students are between 7 and 9 years old. I still think of them as kids...Innocent little ones. Even after my "suck my little dick" comment a while back, I leave the "adult" stuff to a select few in my group of 26. Yet, each day is a new day and they are always surprising me with what they know. Here are some highlights (or lows, depending on your mood):
1. I have a little Asian boy who cusses at me in Chinese. I would never know except for the "good" Asian kids that tell me what he's saying.
2. I was telling the students a story about Louise, the hamster, and how she's quite the biter- not friendly at all. One of my sweeties said, "Damn, Ms. *****, that sucks!" Such a natural sentence I almost passed right over it before I corrected him (darn and stinks).
3. A kid was making a multiplication word problem in class today and messed up on the directions and just flat out said, "FUCK!" I couldn't do anything but give a look.
4. Two of my pains were hitting and kicking each other on the rug during storytime yesterday and one yelled out, "Man, you got me right in the nuts." How do they know that slang already?
5. I give Louise (hamster) updates to the kids a couple of times a week and was explaining how she's much friendlier to T than to me. One of my little girls said, "It's like she flirts with T and bites you because she's jealous." Again, how do they know this stuff?
I could go on, but I'm tired. That's all I have for today. I do have a funny story about my parents to share, but that will have to wait until I gather some useful energy.
So most of my students are between 7 and 9 years old. I still think of them as kids...Innocent little ones. Even after my "suck my little dick" comment a while back, I leave the "adult" stuff to a select few in my group of 26. Yet, each day is a new day and they are always surprising me with what they know. Here are some highlights (or lows, depending on your mood):
1. I have a little Asian boy who cusses at me in Chinese. I would never know except for the "good" Asian kids that tell me what he's saying.
2. I was telling the students a story about Louise, the hamster, and how she's quite the biter- not friendly at all. One of my sweeties said, "Damn, Ms. *****, that sucks!" Such a natural sentence I almost passed right over it before I corrected him (darn and stinks).
3. A kid was making a multiplication word problem in class today and messed up on the directions and just flat out said, "FUCK!" I couldn't do anything but give a look.
4. Two of my pains were hitting and kicking each other on the rug during storytime yesterday and one yelled out, "Man, you got me right in the nuts." How do they know that slang already?
5. I give Louise (hamster) updates to the kids a couple of times a week and was explaining how she's much friendlier to T than to me. One of my little girls said, "It's like she flirts with T and bites you because she's jealous." Again, how do they know this stuff?
I could go on, but I'm tired. That's all I have for today. I do have a funny story about my parents to share, but that will have to wait until I gather some useful energy.
Tuesday, December 09, 2003
School Sucks Right Now...
I'm disgruntled at work. I don't know what the hell is wrong, but for weeks I feel I talk to myself all day long. I have some kids that are so rude I just don't have the energy to try and teach them manners anymore. I have two kids that are openly defiant. I say stand up, they sit down. I say use pencil, they pull out pens. I say shut the fuck up, they start talking (I really do wish I could say that sometimes). I understand a lot of their "talking over "me is a cultural thing, but come on...It's school for cryin' out loud! I should be able to do my job without having to compete for the student's attention. I remember when I was their age, I was scared of teachers. I listened to the adults and followed directions. I have kids in my room that hit each other right in front of me and when I talk to them about it, they sit and stare me down. If some of these kids get their hands on firearms, I'm sure they'd love to take me out.
I don't get paid enough to be free goddamn child care!
My sweetie special needs student is now under my watchful eye. I tried to get him evaluated by the guidance counselor weeks ago, but they've never come up to my room (big fucking surprise). He now walks in the line with me and even holds my hand sometimes. He talks to me and tries (well, more than doing nothing all day) to do some actual third grade work. Yesterday he showed up not feeling well. He told me his mom gave him medicine but it didn't help. The nurse called his mom and she refused to come get him. You know how difficult it is to function as an adult when you are sick? Imagine being a sick 8 year old with mental limitations. Breaks my heart.
Yesterday I was so upset I started crying after school. I came home and whined and cried to T and actually made him cuddle with me before I napped (as I whimpered myself to sleep). I became a teacher to change lives...I don't feel like I'm doing shit here.
I'm disgruntled at work. I don't know what the hell is wrong, but for weeks I feel I talk to myself all day long. I have some kids that are so rude I just don't have the energy to try and teach them manners anymore. I have two kids that are openly defiant. I say stand up, they sit down. I say use pencil, they pull out pens. I say shut the fuck up, they start talking (I really do wish I could say that sometimes). I understand a lot of their "talking over "me is a cultural thing, but come on...It's school for cryin' out loud! I should be able to do my job without having to compete for the student's attention. I remember when I was their age, I was scared of teachers. I listened to the adults and followed directions. I have kids in my room that hit each other right in front of me and when I talk to them about it, they sit and stare me down. If some of these kids get their hands on firearms, I'm sure they'd love to take me out.
I don't get paid enough to be free goddamn child care!
My sweetie special needs student is now under my watchful eye. I tried to get him evaluated by the guidance counselor weeks ago, but they've never come up to my room (big fucking surprise). He now walks in the line with me and even holds my hand sometimes. He talks to me and tries (well, more than doing nothing all day) to do some actual third grade work. Yesterday he showed up not feeling well. He told me his mom gave him medicine but it didn't help. The nurse called his mom and she refused to come get him. You know how difficult it is to function as an adult when you are sick? Imagine being a sick 8 year old with mental limitations. Breaks my heart.
Yesterday I was so upset I started crying after school. I came home and whined and cried to T and actually made him cuddle with me before I napped (as I whimpered myself to sleep). I became a teacher to change lives...I don't feel like I'm doing shit here.
Sunday, December 07, 2003
Maybe we'll move to New Jersey...
The state has so many neat outdoor adventures for regular joes like us to participate in all year round. For some reason, I find this wrong.
The state has so many neat outdoor adventures for regular joes like us to participate in all year round. For some reason, I find this wrong.
Saturday, December 06, 2003
X-Mas Tree Shopping...
Today T and I went and got our X-mas tree. We braved the horrible, blizzard like conditions to walk down the street to make a deal with the shady mobsters selling trees. Dealing with the cold was fine...It was the horrible wind blowing snow all over that was the pain. Welcome to NYC Gnat!
Today T and I went and got our X-mas tree. We braved the horrible, blizzard like conditions to walk down the street to make a deal with the shady mobsters selling trees. Dealing with the cold was fine...It was the horrible wind blowing snow all over that was the pain. Welcome to NYC Gnat!
T's New Money Maker...
Check out T's new Pepsi spot! (click on Tailgating and press Play...See if you can find "when moments become legend")
Check out T's new Pepsi spot! (click on Tailgating and press Play...See if you can find "when moments become legend")
The snow didn't wait until lunchtime...What a way to end the week!
Now this is what I call an Olympic sport! Once you enter, click on Video Highlights.
Thursday, December 04, 2003
Should I call in sick again tomorrow?
My first year of teaching I never took a day off work. I had school based meetings to attend and was out of my classroom a few times, but I never called in sick.
Taking today off was maybe one of the best decisions I've made since moving to NYC last June (it sure wasn't purchasing our leaky coffee maker). I slept in until 10am, leisurely drank coffee and cleaned up all my shit I was too lazy to put away all week. I didn't get out of my pajamas (thermals, socks, sweatshirts, and robes because it's really cold here now) until 12:30pm. 12:30 is usually when I'm getting my students from lunch...ah, to relax! T and I headed into the city and I applied for my first passport. Yes, I have never needed a passport until this year. Barbados in February and Italy in April is sounding better and better each minute! We had a fantastic burger at The Corner Bistro and did some Christmas shopping. We were able to get the sibling/partner gifts and it was so nice and "chill" to be without a schedule.
Should I call in sick again tomorrow? Maybe it will snow and we'll have our first snow day of the year. (Hurry snow! Don't wait until lunchtime to let loose!)
My first year of teaching I never took a day off work. I had school based meetings to attend and was out of my classroom a few times, but I never called in sick.
Taking today off was maybe one of the best decisions I've made since moving to NYC last June (it sure wasn't purchasing our leaky coffee maker). I slept in until 10am, leisurely drank coffee and cleaned up all my shit I was too lazy to put away all week. I didn't get out of my pajamas (thermals, socks, sweatshirts, and robes because it's really cold here now) until 12:30pm. 12:30 is usually when I'm getting my students from lunch...ah, to relax! T and I headed into the city and I applied for my first passport. Yes, I have never needed a passport until this year. Barbados in February and Italy in April is sounding better and better each minute! We had a fantastic burger at The Corner Bistro and did some Christmas shopping. We were able to get the sibling/partner gifts and it was so nice and "chill" to be without a schedule.
Should I call in sick again tomorrow? Maybe it will snow and we'll have our first snow day of the year. (Hurry snow! Don't wait until lunchtime to let loose!)
Wednesday, December 03, 2003
A Shitty Day in the Neighborhood...
I don't know how my students can go from a great couple of days to a complete halt in all schoolwork and normal behavior. Yesterday was a super day of learning up in my third grade classroom. We are starting a nonfiction reading unit that kicks ass and the kids worked hard all day long in all areas of study. Now we enter today...Where do I start? When the kids came to me after science they were sleepy and out of it. I figured they would eventually wake up and snap to, but it never happened. It amazes me how a couple of kids can throw the whole class off balance. Is that how adults are too? Am I just overly sensitive? Seriously, I was miserable all day long because I couldn't teach a damn thing. It killed me to sit and babysit 26 kids while trying desperately to teach them something- anything. I'm taking tomorrow off damnit! I just called the school and let them know I had a "bug." Yep, my "bug" is apparently up my ass!
Oh, and I found out today I have to interview again at the end of the year to stay teaching at PS 94. Great! My AP has it out for me- what a daunting thought to continue through the rest of the year with...
I don't know how my students can go from a great couple of days to a complete halt in all schoolwork and normal behavior. Yesterday was a super day of learning up in my third grade classroom. We are starting a nonfiction reading unit that kicks ass and the kids worked hard all day long in all areas of study. Now we enter today...Where do I start? When the kids came to me after science they were sleepy and out of it. I figured they would eventually wake up and snap to, but it never happened. It amazes me how a couple of kids can throw the whole class off balance. Is that how adults are too? Am I just overly sensitive? Seriously, I was miserable all day long because I couldn't teach a damn thing. It killed me to sit and babysit 26 kids while trying desperately to teach them something- anything. I'm taking tomorrow off damnit! I just called the school and let them know I had a "bug." Yep, my "bug" is apparently up my ass!
Oh, and I found out today I have to interview again at the end of the year to stay teaching at PS 94. Great! My AP has it out for me- what a daunting thought to continue through the rest of the year with...
OUTKAST...
The new OUTKAST CD is fucking fantastic! Can't stop listening and this is killing me because I must sleep! It's just too good to stop...
EM, your copies will be on their way this week.
The new OUTKAST CD is fucking fantastic! Can't stop listening and this is killing me because I must sleep! It's just too good to stop...
EM, your copies will be on their way this week.
Tuesday, December 02, 2003
T and I love hearing familiar names during the nightly news ...
Two knife-wielding teen attackers stabbed an off-duty cop yesterday in Brooklyn during a robbery attempt, police said. The officer, whose name has not been released, was walking home at about 2:45 a.m. when he was attacked by two 17-year-old boys and stabbed in the abdomen on Prospect Place in Prospect Heights.
Two boys were arrested later in the day without incident. Michael Gregory, 16, who lives blocks away from the spot of the attack, and the 15-year old suspect, whose name was withheld, were charged with attempted murder, robbery and criminal possession of a weapon.
Two knife-wielding teen attackers stabbed an off-duty cop yesterday in Brooklyn during a robbery attempt, police said. The officer, whose name has not been released, was walking home at about 2:45 a.m. when he was attacked by two 17-year-old boys and stabbed in the abdomen on Prospect Place in Prospect Heights.
Two boys were arrested later in the day without incident. Michael Gregory, 16, who lives blocks away from the spot of the attack, and the 15-year old suspect, whose name was withheld, were charged with attempted murder, robbery and criminal possession of a weapon.
Monday, December 01, 2003
Thanksgiving...
Had a wonderful time in Seattle with T, MM, MG, and the cousins (R and K). Only wish I had more time to actually get to Vivace. I guess I just have to order online! Spending time with T's family was nice as well. Walking around Ballard in the rain though wasn't my first choice, but still a wonderful meal and great company. Here are some pictures of T's brother's dog, Jessie, cleaning up after our big deep-fried turkey adventure. I think everyone needs a clean-up like this!
Had a wonderful time in Seattle with T, MM, MG, and the cousins (R and K). Only wish I had more time to actually get to Vivace. I guess I just have to order online! Spending time with T's family was nice as well. Walking around Ballard in the rain though wasn't my first choice, but still a wonderful meal and great company. Here are some pictures of T's brother's dog, Jessie, cleaning up after our big deep-fried turkey adventure. I think everyone needs a clean-up like this!
