Spring Break...

...if you could call it that since I still spent it with students. Actually, they were pretty good - though I couldn't let them in on that fact until the trip was over or they might have pushed the limits. I went with 20 kids (6 boys from my school) to Washington DC. It was an amazing trip, I just hope the kids got as much out of it as I did. The kids were told at just about every stop "This is a place where we must be quiet out of respect, and we can not be running or playing." This basically took away all the things junior high boys like to do. Oh, I forgot about "No listening to your i-pods. Put them away or I will take them." Talk about no fun. But I truly think if we had not done this they would have done nothing but what they do here at home (listen to i-pods or play on their psp) and they would have missed out on so much. We saw so many sights it would be hard to name them all though we were rushed through many of them by our tour guide - I was often caught at the back with one or two students who simply wanted to take a few pictures. As it turned out I must have had plenty of time since I ended up with over 200 pictures! We started with night tours of the FDR memorial and the Jefferson memorial. These were beautiful at night, but it is difficult to take good pictures. The next morning was quite an adventure as we were supposed to be at breakfast at 6:30 so we set all wake up calls for 5:30. Well, apparently the hotel did not prepare for the daylight savings time because phones didn't ring until 6:30. Thankfully, another chaperon and I were up on time, the hard part was waking all the kids up. Some wouldn't answer their phone so we would bang on their door. We had some seriously heavy sleepers, but they all managed to be ready by 6:30. I have to say I was pretty impressed - did I mention that we were at the airport at 5:30 the morning before. These are times of the day most junior high kids don't know exist! At last we head out to Mount Vernon, George Washington's home. It overlooks the Potomac and is lovely even at this time of the year, with bare trees. I can only imagine what it looks like in the fall. All the Revolutionary War relics just reminded me of how blessed we were and are. Rationally, we shouldn't have won, but I believe God had his hand over us and blessed us - I only wonder what we have done with this blessing and what we are doing with it. The kids had some time to relax at our next stop, the National Zoo. You may think, why go to the zoo when you are in DC and there are so many other things to see - well, these were my thoughts exactly before we went, but I left with a different attitude. The kids needed a break and they loved it. The animals were all out and active with the perfect weather we had. The tigers were fighting, the lion was pacing, the orangutans were swinging, and I have never seen a bigger hippo than the one I saw that day! (sorry no picture) We were supposed to go to a performance at the Kennedy Center, but we were 15 minutes late - at this point I am getting a little perturbed with our tour guide (he will be forgiven in the end - if you make it that far). Instead we go to the Iwojima memorial. The next morning we take some pictures in front of the White House, take the fastest tour of the Holocaust Museum ever (30 minutes - not time enough to really see anything), and then head to the Washington Monument. The views of the city from the top are great. In the afternoon we had a tour of the Capitol - we were just a few minutes too late to see the House in session. `A few minutes too late' is starting to become a theme. In the evening we headed to the Vietnam Memorial. Several of the students wanted to look up names of relatives, but the tour guide wanted us to hurry (surprise surprise). The other chaperon and I were rebels though and we took a few kids back over later to find the names and place a flag for them. The Lincoln Memorial was next, followed by the Korean Memorial and the WWII Memorial. Those are all a bit overwhelming to go through, but what really got to me was our next day's excursion, Arlington National Cemetery. This place just goes on and on. It is daunting to look at and think of all the people who have sacrificed for this country, as well as others. Kennedy's grave is there as well as the tomb of the unknown soldier. This spot provided the highlight for my trip, ironically, due to another lapse from our tour guide. We were supposed to go to the 9am changing of the guard, but again we were late. So, he told us there would be one at 9:30 - no such thing, they only change on the hour at this time of year. So we see some other sights and then come back for the 10 changing of the guard only to find out that the Israeli Minister of Defense is going to be laying a wreath on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. So we got to see a full ceremony, a rare thing which you can't plan (our tour guide is now forgiven!). Before it started a photographer was called down by the guard for trying to cross over the barrier. I don't know if it was this or the magnitude of the event, but our kids were great during the ceremony. All five branches were there as well as a band. The Israeli Minister had his entourage with him, including bodyguards who were seen talking into their coats. After that incredible experience which I couldn't get over the rest of the day we headed to the National Archives and some of the Smithsonian museums (one was closed for renovations). While we waited on the bus to take us to the airport we gave the kids some time to roam. We took them to the mall (grassy area in front of the Capitol) and let them be kids. It is pretty neat to me to think that they were playing freeze tag in front of the Capitol. The flight home was expected to be an adventure itself. We only had a 30 minute layover in Atlanta and it was the last flight of the night. As it turned out, we arrived early and the next flight was only two gates down, so we even had time for restroom breaks. Since we arrived at midnight, the kids should have been good and worn out for their parents the next day - I know I was!

On a side note, I was horrified to read upon my return that someone had the audacity to hit #10 in the head with a pitch in spring training. He had to have stitches on his left ear and will be out indefinitely due to the swelling and such that prevent him being able to wear a batting helmet.

a Young man

Here to stay! - (for a good while anyway)

Unlike Stacy's fairly recent post with disappointing news

about a certain baseball player, I have received WONDERFUL news concerning my favorite player (in case you have not been around me much, that would be Michael Young). Yes, he will be around Texas for many years to come - until 2013 to be exact. By signing him long term the Rangers have assured themselves of continuing to take a good amount of my money each summer. And just to clarify, I have not jumped on any bandwagon - I have been a Young fan since he came up and was playing second base. I guess I have an eye for talent and class. He plays hard and he plays with integrity - oh, why can't more of them be that way!

Okay, for those of you who didn't quit reading when you saw it was about baseball - here is another little bit of my day. First off, all of the VPs were out today for a meeting (they are all women by the way), so it was just the principal (male) and another sub (male) who were in charge today. Many skeptical emails were sent out wondering just how the school would function without all those ladies - the men of course thought two would do what it takes three women to do. The proof, however, was in the pudding - or lack there of in some instances today.
To start it off, no one seemed quite capable of running the PA to do the pledges during 2nd period. Then the bells were off by a minute or two all day long and when they did ring we all wondered when it would end. Announcements which are run on the broadcast system were also not able to function today. Later when the tried the announcements over the PA, all we would hear were the beeps to turn it on and off with nothing in between. All of these are very minor things, yes, but all the more reason to wonder why two men can have them running smoothly. On top of all of this apparently some former students (who apparently have a better memory than most of my students show in class) dialed up some of their former teachers this afternoon. Apparently phones were ringing all over the school around 1:00 today. For about an hour after all of this the only emails sent out were theories and jokes about all the prank calls - I truly had about 40 emails concerning the calls alone - there really must have been a lot of teaching going on this afternoon. It did provide for an entertaining end to the day. It looks like the men lost this argument, but then what's new?

celebrations and reminisces

This has been a week of celebrations as well as reminisces with friends named Alison (or Allison). Both are incredible women who helped me fill many days growing up with laughter, challenge, and inspiration. God has seen fit to allow me to still be in touch with them (through little of my own effort I am sorry to say - I am really the world's worst at keeping up with people), and enjoy some great moments in their lives.

In Houston last weekend we had a baby shower for Allison and the soon to arrive Brooklynn Grace. She has the room all ready to go in pink and zebra print (as much as I would love to I can't take credit for the brilliant inspiration on that - though I may have to steal it when that someday comes for me - I am all about the zebra print!). Seven weeks and counting! I can't wait to meet her! If she's anything like her mama - lookout world!

Met some new friends while I was there as well. Connie is incredible (coming all the way from Chicago has to say something for you from the start) and I can't way to make it up there for a Cubs game! Kazia (who is practically my neighbor, but I had to go to Houston to meet her) and her daughter Ally (who seriously needs a dog!). She just couldn't get enough of Allison's dogs. She was going after them instead of the other way around. As soon as she heard or saw them she would just giggle - it was one of the cutest things I have ever seen!

On the drive home, another friend Alison calls and tells me she's engaged! Seriously, it is a good time to be Alison. (should I be thinking of changing my name or will this all work its way around to Beths too?) I got to meet the lucky man tonight. I approve (not that he needs my approval). They fit well together. Looking forward to the summer wedding!

CHAMPIONS

The COLTS were not the only champions on Sunday. At a lively house in East Texas, another trophy was awarded with only slightly less pomp and ceremony and a lot less money, but the competition was strong just the same, as was the fun! I can say that, because, yes, I came away the winner! On my inaugural foray into the Godair Superbowl party (my brother's), I just may have spoiled the party.

The treasured trophy was coveted by many - I may have some new enemies - thankfully they don't know where I live. A lot of pressure comes with the trophy. First, simply to keep it together seeing as how most of its pieces are superglued on or in some cases tied. I fear I may have already failed at this first mission, since my nephews proceeded to take pieces off as soon as I got it. Yes, I will put the blame squarely on the shoulders of a child (MICAH)!

Well, once I get that fixed it is my turn to add a piece to the trophy. Since most of you know creativity is not my area of genius, any ideas are welcome!

In the end we all had a blast - I think even the losers enjoyed it!

short, but not so simple

Why do I do what I do? When objects get thrown at me, shoes kicked across the room, kids cuss at me, etc...

Seriously, why do I do this? Somebody better remind me, and fast!

out of commission

Due to unexpected computer problems (which, being the stubborn woman I know I am, I tried to fix on my own) I have been out of commission for a while when it comes to the computer world. I finally had to set aside my pride and get the thing fixed. This accounts for the lack of blogging. Though to be honest, I don't know that I had anything blogworthy to write about anyway. So, basically, you were all just saved from the boredom of my life.

Christmas came (I do realize this is a bit late - but I have some catching up to do) and with it a break from school and snow! Both high on my wish list at this time of year! The break from school I think is truly given simply to keep us teachers from losing all sanity.

The snow comes, for me, thanks to my sister living in Colorado!

Oh, wonderful WHITE CHRISTMAS!

We went sledding, built snowmen, and basically just joined my nephews in acting like kids! Elijah outlasted us all!

He trekked back up the hill after every sled ride never wanting to go in, whether for food or warmth - while we adults

(if we can still call ourselves that) were highly anticipating said food. The whole trip was fabulous! We brought the chaos into my sister's house immediately upon arrival,

as her dogs, in their excitement, knocked Elijah and Zeke into a huge pile of snow - I will leave you to imagine the upheaval that followed.

By the end of the trip Elijah was ready to dive back into that snow so much he pouted when we told him we were leaving. That pretty much said it all.

hopefully something will inspire me soon, so it is not this long until my next post - but then again, most of you know me, and know that this is highly unlikely!

What about Bob?

Celebrating birthdays of friends old and new I took a short trip to Arkansas this past weekend. One friend has been there for me all 30 years of my life, while others I just met. What a wonderful time we all had together. I showed up Friday night in the middle of a storm. It was beautiful looking out of the plane and watching the lightning light up the clouds. (Perhaps I should have been nervous, but all I noticed was the beauty.) Safely landed I was greeted at the airport by Stephanie (who was born 17 days after me and has been there for me through everything in my life), Allison (a friend I met in school growing up, who is one of the most vibrant people I know - and I don't see her enough), and Laurie (a friend I met in Japan, with whom I share some of the most incredible memories of my life - she did after all help me get Michael Young's autograph). More friends (Gronow and Jamie) waited at the house and what a wonderful time we had. Fun, games, and an abundance of food and fellowship - and Stephanie's surprise was still to come.
It's time for dinner Saturday night when suddenly the doorbell rings. There stands Bob - our limo driver! Boy did he get an earful on the ride, since he never put the middle window up - I really hope he enjoyed our conversations. It's a good thing he left the window down though or we quite possibly would still be out there somewhere. Just getting to the house he got lost and he couldn't find the restaurant - seriously, how do you become a limo driver and not know your way around? After dinner we decided we needed to make a pit stop at Target (yes, in the limo!) Once again Amy, Jamie, and Steph (as Bob liked to call her) had to give Bob directions. We somehow arrived back at the house - though I am not quite sure how Bob made it to his next appointment without someone to give him directions. What a memorable 30th birthday celebration!

It just reminded me how blessed I am. No matter where I have been in my life I have been surrounded by the most incredible friends possible. In my hometown I grew up with seven friends who endured the best and the worst together. They encouraged me and loved me when I didn't think too highly of myself (and still do to this day). Off to college and I'm on my own - or so I thought. How wrong could I be! Once more I was given above and beyond what I had imagined. Friends who challenged me, taught me, encouraged me, and strengthened me. All of these friends have held me up when things were tough, and have always kept life entertaining and full of joy. So, in case I haven't told you before - THANKS! I love you all!

the tiger, the knight, and the dragon

Okay, for all of you still wondering about our Sunday School scavenger hunt let me give you my short version. First off let me just say that for the first time in about 2 months I was on time! Only who would have known it was not necessary. The first thing we are told when we arrive is "Most of our class is late, we've been trying to get them here earlier." Boy were they late all right! They never even showed. It was just us and the teacher who I believe was in her forties and we really didn't have a lot in common. Needless to say it was a bit awkward for everyone involved. Well, it turned out that one of the girls in the class did show for church and came over to welcome us. "Eye for detail" Jessica noticed an engagement ring and seeing as how hers was one of only two names mentioned in the class the hopes of more people another time are not, well, let's just say I'm not in danger of breaking anything if I fall from this height. Oh, one more tidbit. It turns out the sign for the class did say 22-35 (so we 30-31 year olds are not lost and forgotten - maybe the others just didn't know they had a class either!).

This weekend I made it back to my roots to visit my family (well, most of them - Joanna has to wait until Christmas). My mom had just recently made a trip to Indiana to bring back my grandmother for a visit. She is 90 and I am amazed at how alert and active she is. She takes a trip out west every year with my aunt. She can work any word game faster than most people I know and definitely faster than anyone in the family. I also got to see my brother, his wife, and yes, most importantly my THREE nephews!

Stacy, I know you are really the rockstar, but to these guys I get to be it - though I am pretty sure it has little to do with me and LOTS to do with my fun red truck! Saturday was BOO at the ZOO! What a treat! It was fun, though my brother ended up calling it BOO-HOO at the ZOO! Elijah just wanted to play on the bouncy toys and lost it when we had to move on and do something for Zeke and Micah. Zeke lost it when two men running the bouncy toys tried to talk to him because they liked his dragon costume. Nothing was easy, but boy were they a sight to see. While in town my sister-in-law decided she wanted me to meet this guy she has been telling me about. He is a friend of my brother so that speaks well for him I have to say (I have the best brother in the world!) She has been trying so hard not to be obvious, so when I go with them for a get together she manages to introduce me to everyone there but him! It turns out I met him several years ago with my brothers' friends. I don't know if he remembers. He does live in this area, but who knows when of if I will see him again. Sure I could get his number from my brother, but it is just not my style to be the pursuer. I have to say he has a lot of good qualities - he works with youth in his church, he is hilarious and seems to be outgoing in any crowd, my nephews love him. Maybe my sis-in-law can do a little prodding on her end, since I don't like to be the pursuer and am a disaster at flirting.

get away days

Well, I don't think Jessica will believe I am doing this, but I say "What better way to procrastinate doing more school work than finally starting a blog." Jessica and Stacy, I do hope you were sitting down. I would hate for you to be injured from the shock. I decided since I actually have some trips to share about now was as good a time as any to get started. Now what happens after this one when life goes back to a dull routine is yet to be determined.

By now you have all heard about the New York trip so I won't elaborate too much except to say I had a great time! It was my first time there and so I pretty much bid them to drag me wherever they wanted (or maybe I dragged them - to all of the places they had seen before)-so sorry Jessica for the dragging to the Empire State Building - won't make that mistake again! I don't think I had quite as much fun as Stacy because I didn't make such an impression on any handsome cops (or frankly any handsome men in general) - you have to give me your secret - though if it in any way involves flirting I think I am a hopeless case since even my mother tells me I should flirt more! I know - pathetic! Okay, well back to NY - I did take in a few things the others did not. For one, I had to experience ice skating in Rockefeller Center - though I am not really sure you could call what I did skating! My self esteem went up a few notches though when several businessmen came out and all immediately fell in one huge pile - I at least waited to fall until I had made it around several times. I also had to make an early morning excursion out to Yankee Stadium being the baseball fan that I am. Granted it was pretty much dead to the world since the Yankees had just been eliminated, but I did get to see it. Probably a good thing I went by myself - I just don't think Jessica could have stood the excitement! I think they pretty much covered the rest of the trip. I would go back in a heartbeat - or anywhere else for that matter - so let me know if you're up for a trip!

My next trip was just such a spontaneous excursion! Another teacher and I are huge baseball fans, so after game one of Detroit vs. Oakland we started discussing going to a playoff game. Well, it just so happened they were in Detroit for game 4 on Saturday so we went from discussing to buying. Our coworkers thought we were crazy, but no way were they going to rain on our parade. We were dreaming all week of a sweep and being there for the final victory! We left Saturday morning at about 3:45 (talk about dedication!) - my friend was so excited she didn't sleep at all the night before. We had heard so many times to be careful, it's not safe, and it's dirty, but everywhere we went people were friendly and helpful (if we had been A's fans it might have been a different story)! We got to the ballpark so early the gates weren't even open! (And we stayed so late they had to kick us out.) The game was incredible! It would be impossible to try to describe the atmosphere with mere words! You truly had to be there. We couldn't have asked for a better game - bottom of the 9th walk off 3run homer for the SWEEP of the series! I don't guess I will go into more details - I am sure I have already lost quite a few of you who could care less about baseball or sports in general, but I must say it was worth every penny of that ticket that was more than my flight! It was quite tempting to go back for the World Series this weekend - but I suppose that might strap me for cash a bit. Back at our hotel (amazingly enough after the taxi driver who drives 80 on the back streets!) having dinner we are dining just tables away from Lou Pinella (and the other men who announced the game) - apparently we chose out hotel well. We basically filled up on some good food and good fun all weekend long! Then sadly came the return home and to work. Why can't I just travel all my life?!