Thursday, December 27, 2007

Life in the homeland

Christmas has come and gone (and it was great, by the way) and tonight I got one more party under my belt. Family ladies' night got over about a half hour ago, and this year my Yankee Swap gift met a little warmer reception than last year's cookie jar. (I found out tonight that my cookie jar has already been given away at a yard sale!) We all had a good time swapping gifts and stories.

Tomorrow night I will be back with my high school girls and their guys for a little holiday cocktail party, and Saturday will be spent with the sister and brother-in-law at their place for dinner and some Pats football. I love low-key vacations in the homeland.

Maybe it is just me, but have you ever noticed that your childhood home is the one place you can do absolutely nothing for a full day and be perfectly content? When I am at my parents' house, I can sit completely happy for hours on end around the house, but if I was back at my place after a couple of hours I would probably go nuts. I'd love to know why this is. . .

Thursday, December 20, 2007

24 hours to freedom. . .

Yes, I know the blogs have been few and far between lately, but that's what happens when Verizon gets backed up. Now I'm back, kids, and you can expect more of the Vikster fun you love so much. :)

My 4th period class is teaming up with AP bio tomorrow to have a Q & A session with a third-year student doctor. I hear he is pretty smart, fairly witty, and has a fantastic girlfriend. We'll see how he does in the classroom. . .

After tomorrow, it's a week and a half of sleeping in, enjoying time with the family, and hopefully a little snow here and there. Details to follow on the Christmas festivities, along with a movie review of "Sweeney Todd" - Tim and I are hitting it up tomorrow night with Leslie and Steve. Here's hoping Johnny Depp and the crew do it justice.

Wednesday, December 12, 2007

I forgot one on the list. . .

How could I forget "Elf?!" I'm watching it as I clean the house to make up for the oversight, and to rid my mind of that horrendous Shrek special.

Tuesday, December 11, 2007

The Shrek Christmas Special Annoys Me

There are so many things I hate about this special, and yet I sit here and watch it. While I'm watching the crappiness, let's count down my favorite Christmas specials.

-All-time favorite: "The Muppet Christmas Carol." Gonzo narrates, vegetables sing, and Michael Cain bah humbugs!!! What's not to love?

-"Santa Claus is Coming to Town" - I love it when they sing "Put One Foot In Front of the Other."

-"Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" - Herbie the Elf and the misfit toys - enough said.

-"A Christmas Story" has more one-liners than any other Christmas movie I can think of PLUS electric sex in the window!!!

-"A Charlie Brown Christmas" - the only special with the REAL Christmas story narrated by an adorable child.

Feel free to add your additions in the post.


In other news, my sweet new couch and loveseat are coming tomorrow and I cannot wait. I have never felt a couch so comfortable. . .

Tuesday, November 27, 2007

The Thanksgiving Recap

A few days later and a few pounds heavier, I decided it was time to blog about the Thanksgiving Odyssey. As usual, I stayed here and enjoyed the holiday with Tim and his family. The food was wonderful and so was the shopping. . .

. . .this year, we hit up the stores starting at 11:30 p.m. Thursday night and rocked it consumer-style until about 6 a.m. I have never stayed up to all-night shop before, and it was very interesting. We were surrounded by fellow shoppers grabbing the Black Friday bargains and watched as stores were decimated in their wake. While I didn't buy a lot of presents, I got some really great ideas that I can hopefully finalize over the next week or so.

Another highlight of Thanksgiving was that I actually was allowed to cook something. I made a coconut, ginger, and butternut squash soup that was served as an appetizer. While Tim would never admit to it, I think it was a pretty good first delve into squash soup. I did discover that you have to be careful when making squash soup, though - if you don't spice it just right, it tastes like baby food.

Monday, November 12, 2007

I'm so excited!

My parents are coming to visit next weekend and I can't wait! Life has been pretty hectic lately, and it will be so great to spend some time relaxing with them. Added bonus: they will be in town for my Christmas concert.

In other news, I am officially falling in to "is it Thanksgiving break yet?" mode. Just six days with kids stands between me and a few days off with lots of turkey.

Tuesday, October 30, 2007

Woo hoo!

Sox win the World Series in four games for the second time in four years. I never thought I'd live to see the day. If I could have made it work, I would have flown up to Boston for the day just to be a part of the party.

In other news, the new Guitar Hero is amazing. I'm officially determined to beat it on hard by the end of the year. There are some awesome new songs to choose from, and I think my favorite is "My Name is Jonas" by Weezer.

Saturday, October 27, 2007

Long time no blog

Yes, I know I have been remiss lately in updating the blog. I always forget how busy the fall is both at work and back in town. This was the first weekend since August that I haven't been running around like crazy and it felt good to relax close to home. The weeks go by so fast that once in a while you need two days of nothing much to let everything on the mind settle in and refocus.

What kept me out of town last weekend? Messiah homecoming, of course! The usual suspects hung out at casa de Bergey and as usual, we all picked right up where we left off. Going back to see the old campus was nice, and I even ran in to my mentor from student teaching. We hadn't seen each other in four years, and I was so excited to be able to talk with her about where we both are in our lives today. Tim and I even had a little time to hit up Hershey Park - in October they decorate for Halloween and all the little kids run around in costumes. Roller coasters on a fall night are so fun.

Needless to say, I have been watching a whole lot of Sox lately. I always say I hate blowouts, and finally tonight we have a close game going. It's uncomfortably close, with the Rockies now trailing in the 8th by only one run. If my boys pull this off tonight, tomorrow night could be the final game of the series. Either way, it's going to be a late Sunday night before another work week begins. I love October baseball but it isn't good for my sleeping pattern.

As of tomorrow, I will be consumed by Guitar Hero III. The game is waiting for Tim at the mall so as soon as we pick it up, we will be working on our mad guitar skills with every spare minute. My goal is to reach James' level of awesome rocking, but that is going to take a long time.

I can't believe November begins on Thursday. Before we all know it we are going to be celebrating the holidays and snow will be falling. Is it too early to dream of snow days?

Friday, October 19, 2007

Making me worry. . .

. . .thank GOD the Red Sox won last night. I can't take the crappy pitching and men left on base much longer, let's GET IT TOGETHER!!!

At least this weekend I will be distracted: Tim and I are heading to PA for Homecoming with all of our college friends. I am so thankful that four years later, we are all just as close as we were in school.

Tuesday, October 9, 2007

You'll be happy to know. . .

. . .that I finally caught up on EVERY show, including "The Office." (RIP Sprinkles) I got back from the volleyball game tonight and with giant bowl of pho in-hand, I got filled in on the Dunder-Mifflin group just before "House" came back on. I redid my nails, chilled out, and it even started to rain that perfect nighttime rain.

Some nights can't be beat.

Thursday, October 4, 2007

Takes on the new season

Alright folks, here are my major hits and misses for the new TV season:

1.) Pushing Daisies: Quirky, hopelessly romantic, colorful, and fun, you NEED to watch the first episode online if you missed it!

2.) Private Practice: BORING and so disappointing. Step it up or hang it up!

3.) Chuck: Directed by McG, it's a fun combo of slick and dweeby that only my college friends and I could truly love.

And now, for the returns:

1.) Grey's Anatomy: Has potential again this season. George decided he loves Izzy, which means his soon-to-be ex-wife will be pregnant in about two weeks so as to complicate things.

2.) House, M.D: I miss Cameron, Chase, and Foreman!

3.) Dancing with the Stars: Too bad I'm never home to watch it.

4.) Desperate Housewives: I can't WAIT to find out what is up with the new neighbors in Mike's old house!!!

Tuesday, October 2, 2007

Back from Florida

Yay for a three-day weekend in Florida with my favorite future doctor! We went to Epcot on Saturday and here are the highlights.

With Nemo and his friends.

The Beast harassed me, but it was worth it for a picture.

Food and wine festival = champange, great food and mouse ears!!!

One last toast before leaving for the night. . .

We had a blast!!!

Wednesday, September 26, 2007

Guess what.

I'm going to Miami tomorrow night.

Guess what else? I'm wicked excited. Catch you on the flip side of my four-day weekend.

Tuesday, September 25, 2007

Two more days to a four-day weekend.

. . .thank God I'm happy at my job. Weeks go by faster when you get to smile.

Monday, September 24, 2007

And a good time was had by all.

Jamesapalooza '07 was a success with much grilling, guitar hero playing, volleyballing, and the usual fare of friends and fun. My one complaint about driving to and from the Cove is the insane amount of bugs that get squished all over my car. Never in my life have I seen such disgusting bug spatters!!!

It is a short work week for me filled with lots of season premieres every night. Stay tuned for my reviews!

Wednesday, September 19, 2007

Denim Day

Not only do we teach the youth of America at my high school, but we also raise money for breast cancer!!! Check out denimday.com to set up your own team or to search for mine and track our progress!

Just remember: those who can, do. . .and those who can do MORE teach.

Tuesday, September 18, 2007

What a great weekend

I spent Friday night, Saturday, and Sunday in Rehoboth Beach with Liz, James, and the Altoona crew. The weather was perfect for some beach volleyball (I opted for being a spectator and a shopper, of course) and I'm pretty sure we all could have stayed on that beach forever.

I love this time of year, and nothing made that more clear to me than sitting on a sunny beach in the pre-fall days. Bring on the cool mornings, bright skies, and warm colors of fall!

Monday, September 10, 2007

In response to last night's VMAs. . .

Alright, everyone, we KNOW Britney bombed last night, but let's stop making fun of her. At this point, the media making fun of Britney Spears is equivalent to the little kid who grabs a daddy long legs and starts pulling off the legs one by one. Let's all just hope her kids escape their home alive some day.

In other news, Aunt Mel and I saw some sweet baseball this weekend. Pictures to follow.

Monday, September 3, 2007

Prayers Needed

By the time most of you read this, my less than two-year old cousin Zoe will be undergoing an MRI and awaiting results. Zoe has been having some strange symptoms (things you shouldn't see in a healthy toddler) and without getting in to all of the details I will just ask the prayers of my family and friends. The MRI is slated for some time Tuesday, and I will post results as soon as I hear.

Saturday, September 1, 2007

As of today. . .

. . .these two crazy kids have been dating for four years.

Friday, August 31, 2007

Getting my timing down.

I have been back in class with the kiddies for a week now, and my body has yet to readjust to the school schedule. I'm having a blast with all the new personalities, but by the end of my lunch break I am ready for a nice long nap. I can't wait until my internal clock resets itself.

In honor of my sheer exhaustion, I treated myself to dinner out tonight. I had heard about a Vietnamese place a town over so I finally got directions and checked it out. They made me some good spring rolls and pho (adding lots of hot sauce, of course). I don't go out to dinner alone very much, but once in a while it is very relaxing to sit by myself with a good meal. After dinner I came home and gave myself a pedicure and watched a movie. The only thing that could make this night better would be if the Sox would get with the program and start winning against the Orioles.

Tomorrow it is off to the State Fair with Laura, then possibly Wegman's. Thank God for a long, low-key weekend stretching ahead of me. . .

Wednesday, August 22, 2007

A quickie of a read. . . .

. . .I couldn't resist the cheesy title for my post. I'm reading "The Quickie" by James Patterson. I just started the book tonight, and after an hour I am already 100 pages in and completely hooked. Like his other novels that I have read, Patterson already has already dropped in many unexpected twists. If this keeps up, I will have it done in a few nights.

In other news, it was back to work today. (I would still like to know where the summer went!) The room is far from student-ready, but I have a few more days so I am not yet worried. Tomorrow we have lots of meetings, and I am hoping that our HSA scores are released in one of them. Good, bad, or indifferent, I just want to know how last year's crew did.

Monday, August 20, 2007

Please don't wake me. . .

Have you ever had one of those dreams that was so vivid and so amazing that when you woke up, you tried to fall back asleep just so you could dive back in? When my alarm went off this morning, it jolted me from a dream so real and so perfect that I turned off the alarm and made a fruitless attempt to head back in where I left off. Alas, the dream was gone, but how great it made me feel stuck with me for the rest of my day.

On Wednesday, I will be jolted out of summer mode by the first wake-up call of a new school year. A week ago I wasn't ready to start, but as the day approaches I am getting excited. This time of year always makes me nervous, (Can I do it all again? How crazy are these kids and parents going to be this time around?) but at the same time it always recharges me. Stay tuned for the many crazy stories that will be Academic Year 2007-2008.

Friday, August 17, 2007

Back in Maryland



Rolled in this morning and I'm still pretty dang tired so I will give you a few of the Simpsons pictures I promised a month ago.

Wednesday, August 15, 2007

One last post of the wedding

One more day in Massachusetts so one final post on Megan's wedding. Her photographer Brittany (who was incredible, by the way) has a blog, and if you scroll down to August 3 you can see Brittany's favorite shots from the wedding. Mysteriously, the bridesmaids make no appearance. Does that mean we were highly unphotogenic? Here's hoping that is not the case, and we were instead too stunning to capture properly on film.

http://bkbphoto.blogspot.com/

Thursday, August 9, 2007

If you haven't done a Mary Kay facial with me yet. . .

. . .you are SERIOUSLY missing out! My aunt hosted a class tonight and apparently I have trained my mother in Mary Kay quite well. Every time I would talk about a product, my mother would ask a question that sounded so planted that I wanted to give her the Teacher's Pet Gold Star Award. Everyone went home a little more beautiful and I went home to place a nice big order to headquarters.

I'm going to facial you all so you'd better get ready!!! The crew at work is placing bets on when I roll in to work in a Pink Escalade. . .if you want to see it happen you'd better call and book your appointment!!!

Wednesday, August 8, 2007

Because I got a little bored.

One of my favorite bloggers posted the following quiz and I took it. I can't say the results were surprising.

I am Elizabeth Bennet!


Take the Quiz here!


Tuesday, August 7, 2007

My thoughts on "The Singing Bee" as they enter my mind

--This show's song picks are all over the place

--"The Honey Bees" are their backup dancers? Please!!!

--Mom says "this is kind of a cheesy show" and I have to agree

--I wish Joey Fatone would follow his buddy Lance's lead and head back to Broadway

--If you stumble through The Door's "Come On Baby Light My Fire," you should just go have a friend smack you really hard in the head with a bat

--I'm becoming progressively dumber as I watch this

PARTING THOUGHTS - I'm super excited about the fall previews that keep popping up during commercials. While most will probably be horrible shows, hope springs eternal when I see the newbies start giving us their best stuff . . .

. . .And have I mentioned how much I love reruns of "Frasier?" It is everything that reality TV and game shows are not. Smart, witty, well-acted AND well-written. When did good sitcoms become an endangered species?

Sunday, August 5, 2007

Mr. and Mrs. Jon Hanson





Megan and Jon got married Friday night. Here are the photo highlights - the full pictures will make it to webshots soon.

The family had a great time at the wedding, which was a relief to all because this wedding got a bit stressful over the last few days. We danced, we drank, we ate fantastic food, and I rocked the maid of honor speech despite a MAJOR case of shaky hands. Congrats to Megan and Jon Hanson!!!

Sunday, July 29, 2007

"Get Used to Disappointment"

The above quote is from one of my favorite movies. If you can't figure it out I'm not going to tell you! Again, get used to disappointment!!!

It has been coming to mind a lot in the last few weeks as unplanned, unexpected things in my life and the lives of those around me have forced me to evaluate just how little control we have over so many issues in life. A beloved student committed suicide, my uncle had a pretty major health scare, and I found out I will be dateless at my sister's wedding this Friday. I'm a bit of a control freak, and coming to terms with not getting what I want is never easy for me. Instead of giving up control, I play the blame game and ask a lot of questions. I think things would be a whole lot easier for me if I just remembered that don't write the story of life.

Next time you want to pick up the pen and start jotting down the next scene in life, remember that someone with a much bigger and grander plotline is in charge, and if you just keep on playing your part, He may surprise you with an unexpected ending. It doesn't mean there won't be a few tears along the way, but at least you know that you're not going it alone.

Friday, July 27, 2007

Book 7 closed and done.

I just finished the final Harry Potter book. I won't disclose details, but I will tell you that the last 75 pages made me cry. Now what am I going to read?

Tuesday, July 24, 2007

Harry Potter is consuming my life. . .

. . .and I'm not afraid to own up to that fact. Expect more blogging after I finish the book.

Thursday, July 19, 2007

Behold, I have been to Kwik-E-Mart

The 7-Eleven in Bladensburg is now a Kwik-E-Mart so I HAD to check it out. I have never been or seen people so excited about a convenience store. My memory stick with all of my pictures died, so my picture posts will have to wait about a month. (Like anyone will still care then, but I will post them nontheless!!!) In the meantime, get all your Kwik-E-Mart moments vicariously through this guy.

Back in the homeland.

I drove home two days ago and I will be up in the land of Red Sox and Sam Adams for about a month. Thank God the sun is out today - I am dying to sit by the pool and read a good book. I have two books to finish before the weekend, and if they aren't finished they will be shelved for two weeks while I read the final "Harry Potter" book.

Speaking of Harry Potter, I saw the new movie Saturday night. I liked it a lot, but I can't really compare it to the book because I didn't realize how much of the book I had forgotten. Much of the movie surprised me simply because it has been a few years since I read the book and other than who dies, I couldn't recall much.

Friday, July 13, 2007

If you are cool, I add you in my links.

Welcome to the sidebar, Wierengas and Ammanns!!!

Wednesday, July 11, 2007

I've been distracted. . .

. . .Tim is home for one more day on his between-rotations break. Needless to say, I haven't been in front of the computer much lately. When I have been on the computer, I have been feverishly loading music and pictures on to my brand new iPod (finally!).

Here are the 10-day highlights:

--500+ songs on the Pod.
--Trivia night - the fearsome foursome took the first game and scored a gift certificate!
--My first visit to Ocean City, complete with Skee-Ball, Family Guy Pinball, lemonade, Thrasher's Fries, caramel popcorn, and THREE rounds of mini golf. I got three holes in one and Tim still managed to beat me each game.
--Friday night theatre: we saw "Sweeney Todd" and I now have a deep skepticism of meat pies.
--Mario Party 8 is so addictive
--The new Camaro featured in "Transformers" may be the most amazing car ever besides the Corvette. I would do bad things to get me one of those.

That's about it - catch you in a few days with a review of the newest Harry Potter flick.

Monday, July 2, 2007

Greece in three pictures.



I got back this afternoon from the Greece adventure. At this point, I have been up for almost twenty-four straight hours so the typing is not coming easy. Suffice to say that Greece is an amazing country with beauty and history all around. The people are incredibly friendly, the food is absolutely delectable, and the memories will be with me a lifetime.

Tuesday, June 19, 2007

Leaving in an hour!!!

It is almost time to head to the airport. I have packed everything I can think of that I may need, the house is clean and all we need is to have the crew get here so we can head out. Say a prayer for safe travel - we are almost out of here!!!

Sunday, June 17, 2007

Exhausted.

We did Busch Gardens all day yesterday and I'm still exhausted. The tiredness is completely worth it because we had a fantastic time. Roller coasters, bumper cars, good food, beautiful day. . .can't beat it.

Good sleep tonight, crazy packing and prepping tomorrow, and then GREECE on Tuesday for two weeks! I'll leave you with some pictures from yesterday to tide you over until my return.


Whipped cream fight - making trouble at lunch.


The newest foal at Busch Gardens with its mommy.


Hanging out with the official mascot of the park.

Thursday, June 14, 2007

Fun things to do while school is out. . .

1.) Work out on the elliptical while watching the glory that is daytime TV. Tomorrow will be especially poignant as Bob Barker says goodbye to "The Price is Right."
2.) Use mobile17.com to turn my favorite songs in to ringtones. Warning: this site it addictive!!!
3.) Shop!!!
4.) Consider creating a facebook account to go along with the myspace account
5.) Detail the car, then detail Tim's car. (He's so lucky he has me!)
6.) Get a tan.
7.) Use OnDemand to check out all the shows I never get to watch during the school year.
8.) Read some good books - finally!!!

It's going to be a fantastic summer. Next stop Busch Gardens on Saturday, then Greece next week!!!

Monday, June 11, 2007

I just read through my yearbook. . .

Every year I create a little yearbook for my students to sign. I never read it until after all the students have left for the summer, so tonight I sat down and had the first read. I am always amazed by what kids remember from my classroom, and I always have to smile. No matter how long and stressful the year, these kids are the reason I get up every morning.

Sunday, June 10, 2007

I'd take a Tony

Winning a Tony means so much more than winning an Oscar. Think about it: to win a Tony, you have to consistently perform one role, probably hundreds of times, live with no do overs. For an Oscar, all you need is one great performance on film. Hats off to the Tony winners tonight. . .now I need to get to New York City!!!

Saturday, June 9, 2007

Can we please get it straight this time?

Not a lot needs to be said about Paris Hilton at this point. The judge in her case is my new hero, in fact I wish he would become a high school principal. Let's just make sure we keep that dirty little skank in jail for the full sentence this time.

Thursday, June 7, 2007

I'm getting so excited.

While my kids took their final today, I took some time to map out things I want to do in Greece. The more I read, the more excited I get. I can't believe that two weeks from now, I will be on a Greek Island basking in the sun and exploring ancient ruins. This trip can't come soon enough!!!

Wednesday, June 6, 2007

Wow, I'm done teaching them!!!

Tomorrow my kids take their final: I am officially done with another year of instruction. Here's hoping they stick with the studying for twenty-four more hours. . .

. . .and on Monday, we are having the first annual Guitar Hero II tournament in my room for all of my students who are forced to show up. The smack-talking began a few days ago, and I can't wait to see how these kids do! Despite all of my practicing, I am pretty sure two of the guys are going to crush me.

Just a few more days and it's summer freedom for me!!! (And for those who are counting, two weeks from this moment I will be in Athens!)

Monday, June 4, 2007

Holy cow.

A new musical based on "Gone with the Wind" is opening in London's West End next year. That means it is only a matter of time before it jumps over the pond and lands in New York. You have NO idea how excited I am about this!!!

Sunday, June 3, 2007

Because pictures are fun.

Tim and I went to a wedding last weekend. Here are the photo highlights for anyone who cares:
Caviar is squishy and should be consumed sparingly.

You can make him pose for a nice picture. . .

. . .but you can't keep him from making trouble.

All the Rossies and their significant others.

Our friends Gretchen and Paul flew up with me and were at our table for the wedding. He's from Maryland, she's from Massachusetts. He's a Ross medical student, she teaches high school science. Sound a little too familiar?

Needless to say, we all had a blast.

Friday, June 1, 2007

Happy birthday to my favorite Irish girl who married a Polish guy

. . .that would be Maggie, and she turns the big 3-0 today. We will be out doing it up Irish style at our favorite trivia spot. They may be confused to see us walk in the door on a night other than Monday.

Friday, May 25, 2007

All I have to say is. . .

. . .you need to go see "Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End." It's not Oscar worthy, but it is a lot of fun. The loose ends do get tied up, and despite what most critics are saying one CAN follow the plot lines. Make sure you stay through all of the credits for the extra scene. It's somewhat predictable but must be watched.

Thursday, May 24, 2007

If only. . .

I found a little townhouse I LOVe. Perfect little first home with everything I want - even the color scheme I'd pick if I were choosing. Why can't I win the lottery or something? I know someday I'll have my own house, but someday seems so far away. . .

Wednesday, May 23, 2007

It could stay like this forever.

The weather this week has been absolutely perfect. It could stay like this for quite a while and I would be happy. What makes a gorgeous spring day even better? The fact that I'm watching the Sox/Yankees game on ESPN right now. I need to get to a ball game soon or I might go insane.

The fact that there are less than 4 weeks left in the school year blew my students' minds today. I was just surprised that I was keeping count better than they were. All of my kids are doing a project for me over the next week. Aside from helping them go in the right direction with this assignment, I pretty much get to coast on autopilot from here on out. I am always amazed at how different the school year feels once the HSA is done. I found myself telling my kids in almost every class today, "now we have a chance to have fun!" The fact that a statement like that is said at the end of May disheartens me. School needs to be more fun all of the time!!!

Boston is down 3-0 in the Bronx. It's time to get off this blog and yell at the TV.

Tuesday, May 22, 2007

Cheaper than therapy

The HSA is DONE! From here on out, the kiddies and I get to have fun. I love this time of year.

I let all my kids watch a movie this afternoon as a thank-you for busting their butts all morning on their test. Fourth period never got to movie time because they wanted to hear stories. For some reason, it always seems my fourth period class is the one that makes me feel better about life. We talked, we laughed, and I felt a lot better than I have in a couple of days. Whoever said kids are no good never met these ones.

Saturday, May 19, 2007

Because a picture this good must be shared.

Notice my sweet mullett, Meg's sweet boycut, and how dirty the two of us got playing outside all day on a family vacation. Classic.

I'm home for the weekend and found this picture in Meg's room. She graduates college tomorrow, and I couldn't be more proud of her. Congrats, Meg!

Thursday, May 17, 2007

Season Finale Night

So much to watch tonight, so little time. I'm watching "The Office" right now after a long, painful day. Thank goodness for mindless comedy entertainment.

In about forty-five minutes, it will be "Grey's Anatomy" time to be followed by "Scrubs" on tape. Then the television void begins. . .

. . .so why, you might ask, was my day so painful? I had to teach an after school session today where sixty-plus kids filed in to my room for help. I can handle chatty kids, I can handle kids who mildly flirt with each other while I explain a Punnett Square, but I cannot STAND kids who try to finish answer for me every time I go to answer a question. Two kids sat in the front row and talked NONSTOP about how much they knew on genetics. The girl even tried to beat me to answers when students needed help. Seriously - I'm getting paid for this so let me do my job. It's MORE than okay to be smart, just keep it in your head until it's useful, kids.

Wednesday, May 16, 2007

Let me be semi-philosophical for a moment. . .

I would love to write my doctoral thesis on the effects of reality television on current young adult work ethic. (Someday, no time soon mind you - I am still working on the masters degree!) I have a theory that kids today are so impulsive and unable to appreciate a hard day's work in part due to reality tv shows. After all, these shows have been part of pop culture since most of them were in kindergarten. You may think I'm crazy, but consider the following:

-To be a multi-platinum singer, kids have seen that you just have to win "American Idol."
-To be a millionaire, kids have seen that you just have to survive an island or finish a partner's race first.

There is no "school of hard knocks" for these kids. I'd love to explore this further some day. Leave some thoughts.

Tuesday, May 15, 2007

Behold, the rumor mill.

A student came in to my classroom today and asked me two questions. First, she asked me if I was pregnant, and then she asked me if it was true that I was moving to Puerto Rico. I laughed at both questions. These kids must really be bored when they stop talking about each other and start making stuff up about their teachers.

Whoever made up the rumor gets creativity points for the Puerto Rico part. I'm going to have to find this kid and ask him or her my motivation for the move. Good times as a high school teacher.

Friday, May 11, 2007

Surprise!!!

Guess what: Tim is home for Mother's Day. It looks like Saturday will be a lot more fun now. . .catch you all Monday.

Thursday, May 10, 2007

We have irises in our front garden. . .

. . .and they seem to be taking over. I cut a few and put them in a vase today. I love fresh flowers.

My 8th period class made me laugh so hard today that I had to move to the back of the room and let the kids do the assignment on the white board. Uncontrollable laughter doesn't happen at work very often, but when it does, I thank God for it. Days like this remind me why I got in to teaching in the first place.

Wednesday, May 9, 2007

Random pictures




Just because they're fun - enjoy.

Monday, May 7, 2007

Regulars

Ah, to live the "Cheers" dream: walking in to a local establishment where everyone knows your name and you are considered one of the regulars. We have officially become one of the regulars at Irish Channel for trivia night.

We have the same waitress each week (she's fantastic, by the way). Tonight she not only told us she missed us and the "other regulars" last week when we weren't there, but she also didn't charge any of us for our drinks. Trivia girl, obviously amused by our weekly antics, upped the harassment tonight. I think it is to the point where she is secretly rooting for us to win again. (Our team is in the midst of a dry spell - pray for rain!) When the manager went to change the Yankees game to the Detroit game, he saw Maggie's Yankees jacket and volunteers to change it back for her.

Being a regular feels pretty darn good. I think this will be what gets me through the next few Mondays.

On the opposite side of regular, the countdown to Greece is on! I bought a travel guide yesterday and can't wait to start paging through it. Cool, fun places across the Greek Isles, here I come!!!

Saturday, May 5, 2007

A Spidey Night. . .

Maggie, Ken, Ryan and I saw "Spiderman 3" last night. We all liked it to varying degrees, but the one thing we agreed completed stunk was the fact that the AC was not on through the entire film. After 2+ hours, we were toasty and ready to be out of that theater. As we left, management gave every person in the theater a free return ticket. A good movie and a free return trip isn't too bad.

I'm not going to give out movie details because I don't want to ruin it for anyone. Suffice to say that you should go see "Spiderman 3" - there are some twists you don't want to miss.

Wednesday, May 2, 2007

A little present.

One of my kids brought me in a whole bag of Hershey Kisses today. Between giving a good chunk away as rewards and stealing some for breakfast, the bag is already half gone.

Two days until "Spider-Man 3." I would have thought the ridiculous amount of advertising would have turned me off to the movie, but I'm still intrigued. The fantasy movie league season officially begins this weekend so bring on the blockbusters. . .

. . .have I mentioned that in a little over a month I will be in Greece soaking up the sun and touring wineries? Happy thoughts of summer continue to keep me sane!!!

Tuesday, May 1, 2007

Gorgeous Day

I love leaving for work when the sun is actually out. While I'm counting down the days until these little angels are out for summer, I have to admit the day starts a heck of a lot better when drenched in sunlight.

Have I mentioned how excited I am for "Spider-Man 3" to come out this weekend? Every time I see a commercial I get psyched for the weekend.

In other obsessions, I have a new cable addiction. I started watching "Shear Genius" on Bravo this weekend. I can't get enough of the drama that is bad styles, gay hairdressers, and proper product usage. My favorite stylists right now are Anthony and Evangelin. Check it out.

Sunday, April 29, 2007

Well, it's over.

While it wasn't the surprise we hoped for, we held Megan's bridal shower this afternoon. I think everyone had fun and the food was fantastic, so my mission was accomplished. Now I can breathe again until we plan the batchelorette party.

Saturday, April 28, 2007

Yay and Boo.

Sox take a HUGE win last night over the Yankees and lose today. I hate losing.

Tuesday, April 24, 2007

Not too much to report today. . .

. . .so I'll ramble for a bit.

Eric and Alicia Wierenga have a blog that will soon be featured on my sidebar because their baby girl Emma is ADORABLE. Check out all the pictures at wieritsat.blogspot.com

I'm killing time until "House" comes on by watching one of my favorite movies, "Moulin Rouge." I could watch this movie over and over and never tire of it. Just remember, folks, "the greatest thing you'll ever learn is just to love and be loved in return." I also think I want to get my hands on some of that green fairy juice some time. . .

It is becoming increasingly evident to me that this school year cannot end soon enough. I have entered every biology teacher's hell portion of the year: HSA preparation. My kiddies take their big test in less than a month. Did I mention they have to pass the test to graduate?

My sister is at the Red Sox game again tonight. That makes two games in 48 hours, one of which showcased four homers in a row. Some girls have all the luck.

Scientists discovered kryptonite. If you want proof, go to MSNBC.com. Superman had better look out.

I guess that's about it. Back to singing along with "Moulin Rouge." Have a good night, kids.

Monday, April 23, 2007

Anything but trivial.

When we go to trivia night, I should take the advice I always give my students: GO WITH YOUR FIRST THOUGHT!!! Again tonight we lost the first round because we overanalyzed too many questions. Still, a Monday night losing at trivia is better than a Monday night of no trivia at all.

In other news, did you see the third inning of the Sox/Yankees game last night? Amazing!!! Thank God the Sox bats are strong this year, especially when Dice-K is pitching. At this point, I don't think our Japanese investment is earning his keep.

Sunday, April 22, 2007

Join the League!!!

Tim and I set up a movie fantasy league over the weekend. We're officially studio moguls and you can be one, too. Movie picks are through May 1 or so and if you want in, email either of us. We have room for up to 40 people and have a side-bet going with a $10 buy-in.

Setting up a studio and choosing which movies to release is tougher than you would think. Each studio comes with a $100 budget which doesn't go very far. Do you play a few big movies or spread the money between some potential sleepers? I know I'm going to obsess about my picks for the next few weeks now. May the best studio win!!!

Saturday, April 21, 2007

Reason why I love late April.

1.)Sox versus Yankees - the best games are always spring and early fall. Today's game is no exception. So far, the Sox have matched the Yankees hit for hit. Hopefully there will be another dramatic Sox win like last night.

2.) Once the weather finally decided to cooperate, it because gorgeous around here. Fresh air is pouring through the screen door and making the house feel amazing.

3.) Less than two months left of school, which also means less than two months until I go to Greece!!!

Friday, April 20, 2007

So much fun!!!

Maggie and I had a great time in Baltimore last night. Molly Ringwald was great in "Sweet Charity" and it was completely worth the total lack of sleep I got last night. Today was a long, very tiring day, but the weekend is here!!!

No big plans for the next couple of day, but the gym and sleep will factor in heavily. Enjoy it, everyone. . .

Wednesday, April 18, 2007

"Sweet Charity" Takes on New Meaning

My buddy Dan is just as much of a theatre lover as I am, and he offered me two tickets to "Sweet Charity" tomorrow night in Baltimore. (He couldn't make the show because of our school's musical production.) So instead of hitting the gym after work tomorrow, I'm hitting the theatre to watch Molly Ringwald as Charity Hope Valentine. (Brat Pack member on stage - sweet!!!!) Whenever she dances I'm probably going to think of the dance scene in "The Breakfast Club" and laugh to myself a little bit. I love surprises!

Tuesday, April 17, 2007

Well, here I am. . .

Again I find myself unable to get in to my blog so I set up a new one. Think of this as Vikster , Version 2.0. I'll need some serious help resetting the side bars - Andy set those up for me in college.

I turned the big 2-5 yesterday. It was not the crisis situation I pictured it might be. I got up, went to work, and tried to stay under the radar. Some of my students found out it was my birthday and tried guessing my age. (Highball was 28, lowball was 19.) We lost by one point at trivia night but still had tons of fun.

I couldn't stay under the radar today when Tim sent me flowers. The bouquet was gorgeous and came in a pink cocktail mixer. Only my Tim would send a mixer to a high school. I'll be lucky if the bouquet is intact when I get to work tomorrow: some kid probably snatched the mixer and left the flowers in a heap.