Funny thing this morning. I get up at my usual time in the morning. I go through my daily routine, and when I'm getting dressed, I noticed one of my Nike symbols on my tennis shoes was missing. Thinking that I have to buy some new shoes sometime in the near future, I put them on and left for work. Nothing else happened that was odd. Now I am in 1st period passing out writing assignments to my students, and (because they are sitting on the floor), I look down and notice that my feet look different. I am wearing two different pairs of shoes! HA HA! Although the colors are similar and they look very much alike, from a side angle the styles are totally different. Oh well, it's too late to go home and change. Funny thing....no one throughout the day even notices. My lunch buddy never notices. My students never notice. I guess no one really ever pays that much attention to shoes. I do happen to tell two students about my little mix up. They decide its "cool miss" and switch one shoe between both of them. Now there are 3 idiots walking around J.C.
To follow up with the small spat with my student yesterday....She comes in an asks me if I had gotten her e-mail last night on Myspace. I actually didn't check it yesterday, so I honestly didn't. I tell her no, and she says that I will like it. Afterwards, it is a normal class. When I got home this afternoon I finally did get to see her message. It was a cute kitty (she knows I like cats), and an apology. This just goes to show that she is truly very sweet and thoughtful, and still remains one of my favorites :)
During the last period of the day, I decided to hold a toe touch competition for some of my students. The last class is very talented, and two boys have been out jumping the girls. The girls decided to step it up and thus came the need for the jump off. One of the other teachers heard and asked if he could bring his class to witness, so now they really had a crowd. It came down to one guy and one girl. The cheerleader ended up winning, but the boy gave her a run for her money. It was very amusing and it made my day.
After my roommate ate outside yesterday with her boyfriend, I ended up out there as well. Although I was alone, I was amazing. The night was cool, the air was luscious, and my sandwich was delicious. he he. The lights under the umbrella were actually very sensible. They allowed you to see what was on the table. In other words, to make sure you don't eat any bugs. It actually looks like a sidewalk cafe or something. I need one more extension cord to make it complete.
My Dad's birthday is this month. He is hard to shop for. Boys in general are hard to shop for, but my Dad especially. A lot of thought went into his Christmas present. I wanted to get him something that he would use, make his life easier, and something having to do with electronics. I got him a blue tooth earpiece, and he seemed uneasy at first, but ended up liking it. Now his birthday is right around the corner and I find myself wondering what he wants. Maybe I over think things, but a like to put a lot of thought into a persons gift. It tells them I care and I'm not about to go to the mall and grab the first thing I see. It's not about how much time it took to get the gift or even about the money. For me, it is the thought that matters. Maybe because in the past I have encountered some messed up situations that it just makes me more aware of gift-giving. Ideas anyone?
I was recently tricked into a Columbia House membership, but am really liking the deal.
I believe that my Jasper has is smarter than he lets on. The other day, at my Target shopping spree, I purchased a water bottle with a spray nozzle. It is used to train cats not to jump on furniture, counters, or any other unwanted spot. I had one and believed that he bumped it off the counter on accident and it ended up un-fix-able (if that really is a word). So almost 3 months go by and no water bottle to train with, so I decide to buy another one. As soon as I got home I filled it with water and he jumps on the counter to look at what I am doing. I spray him and he gets angry. (He is very vocal) I must have only used the stupid thing about twice that day. I left to get dinner, and when I returned the bottle was on the floor and broken in the exact same way as the first. Weird stuff. I contemplated whether or not to buy another one, but decided that the spray nozzle from my sink will work just fine :)
Not so funny stuff:
My car is acting a bit strange. I got an oil change this past week, so I hope it is just the cars way of getting used to the new oil. It felt like it was going to turn off. I was praying that I would make it home today with out being stranded on the side of the road. I am getting a new one in another month or so, so it should all work out.
My sink is acting funny too. Why is everything around me falling apart or breaking? Not to mention my moody air conditioner.
Some really awesome stuff:
I received a phone call this afternoon from my sister who was just informed through an e-mail last night, that she has been accepted into her summer intern in London. I am truly happy for her. This is something that she has wanted for a really long time. She is so successful and I am proud of her. Now I really must get a passport. I have never been to London. She says that I would love it. I am going to save to be able to go and visit her. I can't wait!
Friday, March 2, 2007
Thursday, March 1, 2007
Patio Furniture
I finally did it! I have revamped my back yard. It looks simply splendid. If you read my previous blog, then you would know that I bought some flowers and stuff like that, which by the way, have not died on me yet. After taking a step back at what it looked like, it seemed like it didn't make significant change. Yes, in time the yellow flowers might grow from the trellis to the fence, but how would I sit there and enjoy them? So, I got to thinking...there is no place to sit or relax and enjoy the back yard.
On Tuesday, I had gone to Target, and totally splurged on some outdoor lights. I bought two different types. Butterfly and what I would call Balloon lights. I don't really have a ladder, just a step ladder that I used back at Memorial Middle. I paid for it so I got to take it home with me. It came in very handy. I hung the lights and finally plugged them in. Problems! One of the light sets wasn't working. I thought maybe the fuse had gone out. After a thirty min. fight with the stupid plug, I was victorious in getting both fuses out. Even when I replaced them, the light set still wouldn't work. "What can ya do" I'm sure it would look great when everything is plugged in and working.
[This is spawning from too much time on my hands!]
Yesterday:
So back to my previous thought about sitting....I know that the first of the month is coming up, and I always have a little extra money to spend on one really big purchase. For example, I bought a Christmas tree in December. Since summer is coming up, I want to use this months purchase on my backyard. I started looking online. It's amazing the range of patio furniture there is out there. Materials, sizes, colors, and themes are just the beginning of it. After about a day of research, I knew what I wanted. The set I originally wanted was from Wal-Mart. It was made from solid wood and already came with an umbrella, which I have wanted since I was a little girl. The shipping alone was over $40.00. I decided to go to the Wal-Mart near my house and maybe see if it happened to be there, so I wouldn't have to pay the shipping fee. There were so many choices. Mine unfortunately was not there. As I was looking, I did happen to see the same set, but made from aluminum, a glass table, and of course the umbrella. It came in two colors. I opted for the cool blue. It reminded me of the beach. [By the way, I must interject with my love for SUV's. They are perfect for impulse buys such as this.] It was a hundred dollars less than the wood one I had originally wanted. Sure the material was cheaper, but I would have that cash to spend on something else I had already had my mind on. The cashier loads it in my car for me because it is too heavy for me to lift, which makes me think how I am going to get it down.
So before I even get to my house I have planned everything out in my head. The box is too heavy for one girl to lift, but the items alone are not. So with the box still in my SUV I take out the items one at a time. First the chairs. Then the umbrella. The only heavy item was the glass table which needed to be assembled. Thank goodness for the little Moving Men my parents bought me. I simply slided the whole thing to my backyard. I never had to lift a thing, so I never strained my back. Yea for me!
After some minor assembly (all by myself) the patio furniture is up and looks perfect. It's not too big and will still sit four people. It's colorful, so it really pops against all the greenery.
Today:
I returned the butterfly lights that did not work. If you have ever gone to Target and returned something you will know that they give you cash for that item and ask that you go and find the new item you want and purchase it all over again. This is bad for me. It means that you have to go back in the store. Of course I end up purchasing more lights. This time the lights were for the umbrella. The picture on the box looked really cool, and I figured that since I now own an umbrella, I should dress it up. Yet another task for me outside. Turns out that you have to put little clips on yourself. After I got started, it was like clockwork putting the lights on one by one, and by the time I finished it was barely getting dark, dark enough to see the beautiful lights all plugged in.
In the future:
So remember the thing that I had on my mind....well I found it online. Perfect. Anyone who knows me knows that I have always wanted a hammock. I finally got one for Christmas years ago, and set it up at my parents house. It never really worked because there was no stand for it. It was tied to one of our trees and the wall. I spent a lot of time in that hammock, and actually wonder if its still there. Needless to say, that is what I truly wanted. I found one. I was looking for one that came with a stand. Even if I wanted to do the whole tree thing again, I couldn't. My backyard has absolutely no trees. Weird huh? So now I really need the stand. I found a better one. This one comes with a stand but is portable. I could even take it to the beach, if I wanted to. [I'm planning on spending some time there in the summer as well] And what do you know? It was exactly $96.00 with shipping. Looks like the hundred I saved on the patio furniture worked out. Now all I have to do is wait for it to come in.
This whole time of spending my evenings outside has really been good for my soul. Jasper loves going outside with me. He loves running and has a huge backyard to do it in. At first I was a little apprehensive of letting him outside. I thought he would for sure run away. He always runs out into the garage when I am closing it, and escapes outside to the front. In the front, cars are always passing by. I just get nervous, him being so brave and all. I mean to test his ability to reach the front before the garage door goes down is a test itself. Since I was spending so much time outside, I decided to let him out. After all I would be there to watch him, and he has a bell so I would be able to hear him at all times. He never once tried to climb the fence. I even shot a great picture of him laying in the grass. Bella on the other hand does not like to be outside. She will sit at the glass sliding door and watch everything we are doing, but will not go outside. I think she is scared. It's OK. One curious cat is more than enough for me.
I got into a small spat with a student today. She is actually one of my favorites, which is really weird. I said something and she said something under her breath (which is one of my pet peeves) and then it turned into a battle of who would have the last word. She explained that she was "pissed" at something another student had told her from another class. I told her that it was not my fault and that she needed to "calm down". I have had a bad history with the words "calm down" when said to me, so it probably did not help her. She never looked or spoke to me the rest of the period. I wonder what tomorrow will bring.
Update:
My roommate has just asked to eat outside with her boyfriend. I am so excited about people using the backyard! I can just imagine BBQ's and parties. Even though I'm happy about the use, this makes me kinda sad. I wanted to be the first to enjoy it. Aww....Marty, come back. LOL...the weather is perfect tonight too. A small cool front is coming in and the air is blowing the sweet perfume of the lemon blossoms. Smells like spring.
On Tuesday, I had gone to Target, and totally splurged on some outdoor lights. I bought two different types. Butterfly and what I would call Balloon lights. I don't really have a ladder, just a step ladder that I used back at Memorial Middle. I paid for it so I got to take it home with me. It came in very handy. I hung the lights and finally plugged them in. Problems! One of the light sets wasn't working. I thought maybe the fuse had gone out. After a thirty min. fight with the stupid plug, I was victorious in getting both fuses out. Even when I replaced them, the light set still wouldn't work. "What can ya do" I'm sure it would look great when everything is plugged in and working.
[This is spawning from too much time on my hands!]
Yesterday:
So back to my previous thought about sitting....I know that the first of the month is coming up, and I always have a little extra money to spend on one really big purchase. For example, I bought a Christmas tree in December. Since summer is coming up, I want to use this months purchase on my backyard. I started looking online. It's amazing the range of patio furniture there is out there. Materials, sizes, colors, and themes are just the beginning of it. After about a day of research, I knew what I wanted. The set I originally wanted was from Wal-Mart. It was made from solid wood and already came with an umbrella, which I have wanted since I was a little girl. The shipping alone was over $40.00. I decided to go to the Wal-Mart near my house and maybe see if it happened to be there, so I wouldn't have to pay the shipping fee. There were so many choices. Mine unfortunately was not there. As I was looking, I did happen to see the same set, but made from aluminum, a glass table, and of course the umbrella. It came in two colors. I opted for the cool blue. It reminded me of the beach. [By the way, I must interject with my love for SUV's. They are perfect for impulse buys such as this.] It was a hundred dollars less than the wood one I had originally wanted. Sure the material was cheaper, but I would have that cash to spend on something else I had already had my mind on. The cashier loads it in my car for me because it is too heavy for me to lift, which makes me think how I am going to get it down.
So before I even get to my house I have planned everything out in my head. The box is too heavy for one girl to lift, but the items alone are not. So with the box still in my SUV I take out the items one at a time. First the chairs. Then the umbrella. The only heavy item was the glass table which needed to be assembled. Thank goodness for the little Moving Men my parents bought me. I simply slided the whole thing to my backyard. I never had to lift a thing, so I never strained my back. Yea for me!
After some minor assembly (all by myself) the patio furniture is up and looks perfect. It's not too big and will still sit four people. It's colorful, so it really pops against all the greenery.
Today:
I returned the butterfly lights that did not work. If you have ever gone to Target and returned something you will know that they give you cash for that item and ask that you go and find the new item you want and purchase it all over again. This is bad for me. It means that you have to go back in the store. Of course I end up purchasing more lights. This time the lights were for the umbrella. The picture on the box looked really cool, and I figured that since I now own an umbrella, I should dress it up. Yet another task for me outside. Turns out that you have to put little clips on yourself. After I got started, it was like clockwork putting the lights on one by one, and by the time I finished it was barely getting dark, dark enough to see the beautiful lights all plugged in.
In the future:
So remember the thing that I had on my mind....well I found it online. Perfect. Anyone who knows me knows that I have always wanted a hammock. I finally got one for Christmas years ago, and set it up at my parents house. It never really worked because there was no stand for it. It was tied to one of our trees and the wall. I spent a lot of time in that hammock, and actually wonder if its still there. Needless to say, that is what I truly wanted. I found one. I was looking for one that came with a stand. Even if I wanted to do the whole tree thing again, I couldn't. My backyard has absolutely no trees. Weird huh? So now I really need the stand. I found a better one. This one comes with a stand but is portable. I could even take it to the beach, if I wanted to. [I'm planning on spending some time there in the summer as well] And what do you know? It was exactly $96.00 with shipping. Looks like the hundred I saved on the patio furniture worked out. Now all I have to do is wait for it to come in.
This whole time of spending my evenings outside has really been good for my soul. Jasper loves going outside with me. He loves running and has a huge backyard to do it in. At first I was a little apprehensive of letting him outside. I thought he would for sure run away. He always runs out into the garage when I am closing it, and escapes outside to the front. In the front, cars are always passing by. I just get nervous, him being so brave and all. I mean to test his ability to reach the front before the garage door goes down is a test itself. Since I was spending so much time outside, I decided to let him out. After all I would be there to watch him, and he has a bell so I would be able to hear him at all times. He never once tried to climb the fence. I even shot a great picture of him laying in the grass. Bella on the other hand does not like to be outside. She will sit at the glass sliding door and watch everything we are doing, but will not go outside. I think she is scared. It's OK. One curious cat is more than enough for me.
I got into a small spat with a student today. She is actually one of my favorites, which is really weird. I said something and she said something under her breath (which is one of my pet peeves) and then it turned into a battle of who would have the last word. She explained that she was "pissed" at something another student had told her from another class. I told her that it was not my fault and that she needed to "calm down". I have had a bad history with the words "calm down" when said to me, so it probably did not help her. She never looked or spoke to me the rest of the period. I wonder what tomorrow will bring.
Update:
My roommate has just asked to eat outside with her boyfriend. I am so excited about people using the backyard! I can just imagine BBQ's and parties. Even though I'm happy about the use, this makes me kinda sad. I wanted to be the first to enjoy it. Aww....Marty, come back. LOL...the weather is perfect tonight too. A small cool front is coming in and the air is blowing the sweet perfume of the lemon blossoms. Smells like spring.
Monday, February 26, 2007
tyefNMslo
I had a normal weekend. On Friday, instead of sitting at home watching television, I decided to go to Home Depot. It all started with what I thought was a stolen garden hose. Long story short, I decided to go buy one. Passing by the garden department, I had some ideas that I had been meaning to do with my backyard for some time. Altogether, I bought two small hanging pots, one vine, one dessert rose, two cylamens to put in the hanging pots, a lot of soil, a flag and a trellis, the missing garden hose, 2 mini sprinklers (butterfly design) and a shovel. (The flag was on special, and since my house has a built in flag holder, I figured it would be perfect) That night I re-potted the flowers, hung them outside, and watered my lawn. I wanted to plant the vine the next morning, but I knew I needed moist soil, or digging would be very hard. I did a very good job, finished, and was still bored. The next morning I planted my vine. I also fixed my door, which was much simpler than I thought. No more kitties getting into my room! That night I had dinner at an Italian restaurant with my parents, my cousin Julissa, and her husband Cesar. It was a lovely evening, with lots of laughs. The next day was a lazy day. I stayed in bed for most of it, went to church, went to a BBQ, and saw the Academy Awards. The only thing that I was dreading was to go to work the next day.
So today was my first day of being back in my real first period class. I spent the last six weeks at the Senior High campus helping out the Drill Team get ready for competition. I definitely was not looking forward to this all weekend long. The students did test me but not very much. There were the few that never dress out, and of course the few that never do the technique across the floor, but all together it was a pretty good class. I did make one comment that, if "you didn't dress out, then you have no business leaving the classroom"....and right when I said it ....one student (who is not dressed out) is just about to walk out the door....now, I know everyone heard me, so I call out her name. She turns around, I ask where she thinks she is going...she tells me "to the restroom", I tell her that since she didn't ask, she is to stay in the room...she rolls her eyes but stays inside. At that moment another student comes up to me and kindly asks to go drink water with the words "may" and everything. So I say "of course".....it was perfect timing....
I got an oil change today. It seems almost stupid to waste a perfectly good oil change on a car that I have to give up in a month. I have been shopping online for a new SUV. The one's at the top of my list are Chevrolet, Dodge, Nissan, and Pontiac. Sadly the one that will win will be the cheapest one. I really am happy driving anything. As long as it is an SUV, and it never leaves me anywhere.
Lately I feel like I have been going at life alone. I'm sure everyone must feel this every once in a while. There are so many things I want to write, but fear that if someone reads them, then it is a glimpse into my true self. Maybe that's why I write about what I'm doing and not how I'm doing. I see things online. I create stupid things in my head and then stress about why I do that to myself. If something really bothered me, I should be able to express it, right? I'm scared that whatever I'm thinking is out of the norm, and therefore puts me at a disadvantage as a human, as a woman, and as a girlfriend.
One more thing, on my way home from the oil change, I decided to pick up dinner at What-A-Burger. The girl who took my money, recognized me as her teacher from 2 years ago (when I was student teaching) She said this very happily, and knew a lot more about me then I knew about her. This made me happy. It also made me happy to think that this girl has not graduated yet (she is a senior), so that makes me still pretty young.
So today was my first day of being back in my real first period class. I spent the last six weeks at the Senior High campus helping out the Drill Team get ready for competition. I definitely was not looking forward to this all weekend long. The students did test me but not very much. There were the few that never dress out, and of course the few that never do the technique across the floor, but all together it was a pretty good class. I did make one comment that, if "you didn't dress out, then you have no business leaving the classroom"....and right when I said it ....one student (who is not dressed out) is just about to walk out the door....now, I know everyone heard me, so I call out her name. She turns around, I ask where she thinks she is going...she tells me "to the restroom", I tell her that since she didn't ask, she is to stay in the room...she rolls her eyes but stays inside. At that moment another student comes up to me and kindly asks to go drink water with the words "may" and everything. So I say "of course".....it was perfect timing....
I got an oil change today. It seems almost stupid to waste a perfectly good oil change on a car that I have to give up in a month. I have been shopping online for a new SUV. The one's at the top of my list are Chevrolet, Dodge, Nissan, and Pontiac. Sadly the one that will win will be the cheapest one. I really am happy driving anything. As long as it is an SUV, and it never leaves me anywhere.
Lately I feel like I have been going at life alone. I'm sure everyone must feel this every once in a while. There are so many things I want to write, but fear that if someone reads them, then it is a glimpse into my true self. Maybe that's why I write about what I'm doing and not how I'm doing. I see things online. I create stupid things in my head and then stress about why I do that to myself. If something really bothered me, I should be able to express it, right? I'm scared that whatever I'm thinking is out of the norm, and therefore puts me at a disadvantage as a human, as a woman, and as a girlfriend.
One more thing, on my way home from the oil change, I decided to pick up dinner at What-A-Burger. The girl who took my money, recognized me as her teacher from 2 years ago (when I was student teaching) She said this very happily, and knew a lot more about me then I knew about her. This made me happy. It also made me happy to think that this girl has not graduated yet (she is a senior), so that makes me still pretty young.
Thursday, February 22, 2007
Falling
I fell again today at work, while doing a stupid hip hop dance. Nothing hard! Just plain stupidity and weak ankles. At least it was the right one, and not the left that I had seriously sprained earlier this school year. I couldn't get up and the students were scared. They were very helpful though. They ran to the nurse and got an ice pack. I took off the next period, but then had to go to lunch duty and get lunch. I was limping but, walking okay. It wasn't till after school, where I choose to go run a mile, where the stupidity comes in to play. I thought that if I wrapped it up real good, that it wouldn't move around a lot. Why am I always wrong about this kind of stuff. About halfway through, it really began to ache. I could choose to turn around, but then it would be the same as completing the stupid run. So, I decided to finish, minus the extra lap around the pond to fully complete the mile. I'm putting ice on it as I type and now it's getting even harder to walk. I'm hoping it is just sore.
Yesterday I bought a plane ticket to D.C. It feels really good knowing that I'm going to see Marty in a couple of weeks. I miss him very much, and fear that I haven't been a very good girlfriend lately. I get angry very easily and thought it was because of all the stress I had been going through. I am truly sorry, and plan to make it up to him. I just hope he gives me a chance.
On another note, Grey's Anatomy is tonight. In about 10 mins it will start. I have been watching this show since the beginning, and am dying to find out what is going to happen.
Tomorrow is a field day for all the students who took the TAKS test. It is going to be filled with Sumo wrestling, Big Glove Boxing, Obstacle courses, Bungee jumps, and much much more. I don't remember having anything like that when I was in school. This is just a reward for showing up. I am in charge of the Big Glove Boxing game, which should attract a lot of students, and possibly some teachers. I am excited because last time I got put in charge of some crappy game, where no one came. The only downfall is that it is going to be hot tomorrow. I don't have sunscreen...only tanning lotion. Help!
Yesterday I bought a plane ticket to D.C. It feels really good knowing that I'm going to see Marty in a couple of weeks. I miss him very much, and fear that I haven't been a very good girlfriend lately. I get angry very easily and thought it was because of all the stress I had been going through. I am truly sorry, and plan to make it up to him. I just hope he gives me a chance.
On another note, Grey's Anatomy is tonight. In about 10 mins it will start. I have been watching this show since the beginning, and am dying to find out what is going to happen.
Tomorrow is a field day for all the students who took the TAKS test. It is going to be filled with Sumo wrestling, Big Glove Boxing, Obstacle courses, Bungee jumps, and much much more. I don't remember having anything like that when I was in school. This is just a reward for showing up. I am in charge of the Big Glove Boxing game, which should attract a lot of students, and possibly some teachers. I am excited because last time I got put in charge of some crappy game, where no one came. The only downfall is that it is going to be hot tomorrow. I don't have sunscreen...only tanning lotion. Help!
Wednesday, February 21, 2007
Trying New Things
So it feels really strange to come home during daylight hours. It almost seems normal. February TAKS has come and gone too...and soon April TAKS will be here. Spring Break is almost here, which I am looking forward to. I made a list of things to do during the week, just to feel like I am actually being productive, but the only thing that I have gotten around to doing ...is my grades. I have successfully caught up on some much needed sleep. This weekend I plan to do my Taxes, and get my massages that were given to me during Christmas. I definitely need to hook up with some girlfriends and go out. The alone time is kinda driving me a little crazy. Don't get me wrong, I like the new found time, I just don't want it to take me to a place where I don't want to be.
I'm trying to figure out why I am so happy in my afternoon classes. They are not better classes, or even better students for that matter. I wonder if it's because it's nearing the end of the school day, and I know soon that I will get to go home. Or is it that I am finally awake and functional during those classes? Either way, I need to figure out a way to be happy in the morning.
I don't have much to say considering that I wrote a lot yesterday. I'm trying some new things and I hope they work out. Speaking of work out...now that I have time, I need to seriously hit the gym. Oh yea....I don't have one....then I need to go to the duck park and run.
My lease for my car is due next month. I'm kinda scared. I don't know what I am going to get next. I love Land Rover, but with the new house, I'm not sure if I can stay with the company. I need to research some suv's. Any ideas anyone?
I'm trying to figure out why I am so happy in my afternoon classes. They are not better classes, or even better students for that matter. I wonder if it's because it's nearing the end of the school day, and I know soon that I will get to go home. Or is it that I am finally awake and functional during those classes? Either way, I need to figure out a way to be happy in the morning.
I don't have much to say considering that I wrote a lot yesterday. I'm trying some new things and I hope they work out. Speaking of work out...now that I have time, I need to seriously hit the gym. Oh yea....I don't have one....then I need to go to the duck park and run.
My lease for my car is due next month. I'm kinda scared. I don't know what I am going to get next. I love Land Rover, but with the new house, I'm not sure if I can stay with the company. I need to research some suv's. Any ideas anyone?
Tuesday, February 20, 2007
It's OVER!
It's finally over....the long practices, the yelling, the frustration.....it's all over. Competition has come and gone. I thought this would never come. I thought I would never wake up from my nightmare.....lol....ok....so it wasn't really that bad. I mean, I did actually have fun. We travelled to Houston, where the La Joya Jewelettes made history..... We competed at our very first MA competition. If anyone knows anything about dance competitions then you probably know that MA is one of the hardest. I had never been. I have been to Power Dance, American Dance Drill, even Showmakers, but this takes the cake. I'm talking about rich, super teams, 5'10 amazon tall white women, costumes that probably cost more than me, and that's just the start of it. In total there were 2 gyms, 1 auditorium, 2 dressing rooms per team, 2 entrances, a cafe, vendors who were selling Coach and Fendi bags [not real by the way....thanks Marty :) ], an MA store (where Directors get a discount), and practice space. Out of 360 soloist, 65 were in our High school category alone. 9 were to dance at the finals where, unlike ADT, they start at 0. Our little Mexican team did very well. We took home a Sweepstakes trophy for both Team and Officers, an outstanding award for our Military, and a Choreography award for our Kick. One out of our 4 soloists made it to the finals where she made La Joya proud. She came in 2nd runner up. Some thought that we would come home with nothing. I had higher hopes so I was a bit disappointed when we didn't get much at the beginning for our ensemble, but felt better after the Choreography award was called out. If you read previous blogs, you will notice that the kick was mine :) "thank you, thank you".....OK if you can't boast in your blog then when can you?
The trip started out pretty rocky. We stayed late the night before having a dress rehearsal. I didn't get home till late. I still had to burn music and pack. I procrastinated and decided to go to Wal-Mart for whatever I might need. It's a good thing I went because I found a 14 baby blue pins to put on our hideous ensemble dresses and a label maker program for the cd's that I was to burn (hey we might as well look professional) The CD's came out great and the pins did add to the costume, along with the help of Manny's creative touch. I packed and went to bed around 1:30. I set my alarm, but swear it didn't go off. The only reason I woke up at 4:30 was because Terri called me and asked for video tapes. I would have missed the bus. I bought a portable DVD player so I grabbed DVD's and was on my way. I forgot a blanket and a pillow, and it was freezing. Luckily we went up in a Charter Bus so it wasn't so bad, we had heat. The Bus Driver's name was Mr. Garza and thank goodness he spoke English. I guess I was expecting the usual school district bus driver....lost and unable to communicate with me. But he wasn't...he knew his way around, and was knowledgeable about the weather, and traffic conditions, and even construction on certain streets and highways. He did his homework and was very nice. He even showed us pictures of his daughters. We shopped at the Galleria, which I have never been to. I must go back and ice skate. I didn't shop much...and when I did it wasn't for me ...it was for the girls. We checked in to the hotel and ordered pizza. Then it was time for practice. After an exhausting night, Manny and I decided we needed super glue for the next day. We were supposed to put tiny ant-sized rhinestones on the outside of the girls eyes, and the only way they would stay on was to put them on with super glue. Bad idea. We went to bed around 2:00 because we stayed up to fix the ensemble dresses.
The next day was the longest day of my life. We woke up at 5:30. We got the girls on the bus and headed to the competition. We were a little late and our officers had to pay by having to rush to gym 2 for their Jazz dance. They were shook up about the performance, but didn't have time to worry about it, they needed to focus on the next dance. The Lyrical was next. It went OK.....then the Ensemble. One of our girls forgot her bloomers at the hotel. Luckily her mom was there to save the day by picking them up for her...but not so lucky with trying to find the competition. She didn't make it and our girl performed with black shorts underneath her see-through baby blue dress. Still no time to fret, more dances to come. Next was the Team Jazz, our weakest piece. The team actually surprised me. They looked clean, and it was the best I had ever seen them perform. I still saw mistakes, don't get me wrong, but I was pleased. After Team Jazz, was Team Military, our strongest one. It was the nicest costume and cleanest piece. The girls were awesome. Now for Team Kick, our last of the team category. I was a little stressed about this one because the girls had not had time to practice like they did for the other pieces. They were going out cold turkey and every time they do that they mess up. Not to mention the flips were at least someone usually falls on their booty. You can just imagine my anxiety. They did mess up, but it wasn't so bad. It wasn't very obvious. Only trained eyes could tell. You could tell some girls gave it their all. I was once again pleased. Almost over. Modern would sum up our Officer category. This was the best. It seemed as if we got better as the day progressed. I took the team - our soloist to pick up Whataburger. I made them eat in the bus because I wanted to get back in time to cheer on our solos. We made a pit stop to pick up pine cones. Some of the girls have never been out of the Valley, and the pine cones along with the squirrels were the highlights of their day. Our solos started at 6:00. Solo finals started at 8:45 and awards started at 10:00. We didn't get to the hotel until 11:30. I snuggled into my warm bed only to be woken up by girls knocking on our door. Turns out that some girls used the super glue we bought to put the rhinestones in their hair. 10 rhinestones to be exact. To make a long story short, some girls ended up with small round bald spots. (Didn't want to forget my brief onset with the super glue earlier that day....I super glued a girls eye shut....I know!....but all is well, she can open her eye....hey at least it wasn't as bad as Manny spilling Acetone in another girls eye.)
OK so I didn't go to sleep early that night either. I miss sleep. It was so nice. The next day, we went to First Colony Mall. It was less expensive than the Galleria, and here I finally got to shop for myself. I slept a little on the bus, thanks to Terri's sister who let me borrow a pillow and blanket(she lives in Houston). We even got home earlier than we thought.
I was so anxious to sleep in my own bed, but as soon as I put my feet in ...I felt something damp.....turns out my kitties were in my room while I was away, and decided to leave me a pee present. The drama never stops! I had just bought new sheets the weekend before, so it wasn't so bad. I washed everything that night and put it out to dry.
At school, the students have to take the TAKS test. FUN FUN FUN!
Now that I have time to breathe and write, I will keep you posted!
The trip started out pretty rocky. We stayed late the night before having a dress rehearsal. I didn't get home till late. I still had to burn music and pack. I procrastinated and decided to go to Wal-Mart for whatever I might need. It's a good thing I went because I found a 14 baby blue pins to put on our hideous ensemble dresses and a label maker program for the cd's that I was to burn (hey we might as well look professional) The CD's came out great and the pins did add to the costume, along with the help of Manny's creative touch. I packed and went to bed around 1:30. I set my alarm, but swear it didn't go off. The only reason I woke up at 4:30 was because Terri called me and asked for video tapes. I would have missed the bus. I bought a portable DVD player so I grabbed DVD's and was on my way. I forgot a blanket and a pillow, and it was freezing. Luckily we went up in a Charter Bus so it wasn't so bad, we had heat. The Bus Driver's name was Mr. Garza and thank goodness he spoke English. I guess I was expecting the usual school district bus driver....lost and unable to communicate with me. But he wasn't...he knew his way around, and was knowledgeable about the weather, and traffic conditions, and even construction on certain streets and highways. He did his homework and was very nice. He even showed us pictures of his daughters. We shopped at the Galleria, which I have never been to. I must go back and ice skate. I didn't shop much...and when I did it wasn't for me ...it was for the girls. We checked in to the hotel and ordered pizza. Then it was time for practice. After an exhausting night, Manny and I decided we needed super glue for the next day. We were supposed to put tiny ant-sized rhinestones on the outside of the girls eyes, and the only way they would stay on was to put them on with super glue. Bad idea. We went to bed around 2:00 because we stayed up to fix the ensemble dresses.
The next day was the longest day of my life. We woke up at 5:30. We got the girls on the bus and headed to the competition. We were a little late and our officers had to pay by having to rush to gym 2 for their Jazz dance. They were shook up about the performance, but didn't have time to worry about it, they needed to focus on the next dance. The Lyrical was next. It went OK.....then the Ensemble. One of our girls forgot her bloomers at the hotel. Luckily her mom was there to save the day by picking them up for her...but not so lucky with trying to find the competition. She didn't make it and our girl performed with black shorts underneath her see-through baby blue dress. Still no time to fret, more dances to come. Next was the Team Jazz, our weakest piece. The team actually surprised me. They looked clean, and it was the best I had ever seen them perform. I still saw mistakes, don't get me wrong, but I was pleased. After Team Jazz, was Team Military, our strongest one. It was the nicest costume and cleanest piece. The girls were awesome. Now for Team Kick, our last of the team category. I was a little stressed about this one because the girls had not had time to practice like they did for the other pieces. They were going out cold turkey and every time they do that they mess up. Not to mention the flips were at least someone usually falls on their booty. You can just imagine my anxiety. They did mess up, but it wasn't so bad. It wasn't very obvious. Only trained eyes could tell. You could tell some girls gave it their all. I was once again pleased. Almost over. Modern would sum up our Officer category. This was the best. It seemed as if we got better as the day progressed. I took the team - our soloist to pick up Whataburger. I made them eat in the bus because I wanted to get back in time to cheer on our solos. We made a pit stop to pick up pine cones. Some of the girls have never been out of the Valley, and the pine cones along with the squirrels were the highlights of their day. Our solos started at 6:00. Solo finals started at 8:45 and awards started at 10:00. We didn't get to the hotel until 11:30. I snuggled into my warm bed only to be woken up by girls knocking on our door. Turns out that some girls used the super glue we bought to put the rhinestones in their hair. 10 rhinestones to be exact. To make a long story short, some girls ended up with small round bald spots. (Didn't want to forget my brief onset with the super glue earlier that day....I super glued a girls eye shut....I know!....but all is well, she can open her eye....hey at least it wasn't as bad as Manny spilling Acetone in another girls eye.)
OK so I didn't go to sleep early that night either. I miss sleep. It was so nice. The next day, we went to First Colony Mall. It was less expensive than the Galleria, and here I finally got to shop for myself. I slept a little on the bus, thanks to Terri's sister who let me borrow a pillow and blanket(she lives in Houston). We even got home earlier than we thought.
I was so anxious to sleep in my own bed, but as soon as I put my feet in ...I felt something damp.....turns out my kitties were in my room while I was away, and decided to leave me a pee present. The drama never stops! I had just bought new sheets the weekend before, so it wasn't so bad. I washed everything that night and put it out to dry.
At school, the students have to take the TAKS test. FUN FUN FUN!
Now that I have time to breathe and write, I will keep you posted!
Wednesday, February 14, 2007
Valentine's Day
To all you love birds out there Happy Valentine's Day! I celebrated a little differently. We (meaning "not me") decided to have practice on Wednesday. About a month ago, my parents were able to get a hold of Rent Tickets. I have seen the movie, but thought the live show would be much better. Needless to say, it was very good, and seeing the movie did help with the story lines. I left practice an hour early to rush to be there on time. The show lasted longer than normal musicals and by the end my parents and I were starving. We went next door to Taco Palenque, which was delicious and hit the spot. Marty came the weekend before Valentine's Day, so we could celebrate early. We also celebrated our 6 month anniversary. He got me Godiva chocolates and flowers. So sweet. I tried to make his gift as thoughtful as I could. I was going to send him a care package, but since he decided to surprise me by coming down, I gave it to him in person. Seeing his face made it all worth it.
Some of my student's gave me some gifts which were totally unexpected. Last year, at Memorial, I received a lot of gifts during Christmas, Valentine's and even as Going Away presents. Not that gifts mean how much a person cares, but they always knew how to make a teacher's day bright. Ever since I started working at the high school...much of that love is gone now. The student's just don't seem to care as much. Not holding anything against them, but I'm sure they have better things to do with their time. So, you can imagine that I was not expecting anything from anyone this Valentine's day, but I was very much surprised. Two officers where very sweet and gave me candy and a very cute stuffed zebra. A very special freshman gave me a malt-looking cup with a heart shaped straw filled with candies and a balloon on top. I say this freshman is special because I am always getting after her. She has so much talent and very little confidence. She is beautiful but never smiles because so is always so busy concentrating. LOL. She was sweet to remember her teacher on this day. I also received a Valentine from a Senior who I thought did not like me. We never really got along, until a Saturday practice where she told me she had a dream of me. After talking shortly, we were on much better (friendlier) terms. Those girls made my day.
Some of my student's gave me some gifts which were totally unexpected. Last year, at Memorial, I received a lot of gifts during Christmas, Valentine's and even as Going Away presents. Not that gifts mean how much a person cares, but they always knew how to make a teacher's day bright. Ever since I started working at the high school...much of that love is gone now. The student's just don't seem to care as much. Not holding anything against them, but I'm sure they have better things to do with their time. So, you can imagine that I was not expecting anything from anyone this Valentine's day, but I was very much surprised. Two officers where very sweet and gave me candy and a very cute stuffed zebra. A very special freshman gave me a malt-looking cup with a heart shaped straw filled with candies and a balloon on top. I say this freshman is special because I am always getting after her. She has so much talent and very little confidence. She is beautiful but never smiles because so is always so busy concentrating. LOL. She was sweet to remember her teacher on this day. I also received a Valentine from a Senior who I thought did not like me. We never really got along, until a Saturday practice where she told me she had a dream of me. After talking shortly, we were on much better (friendlier) terms. Those girls made my day.
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