The World of the Vikster Continues

I bet you thought I'd NEVER post again. . .

2009-12-17T13:59:00.002-05:00

. . .but you were wrong! Let's face it - most of the time I just do status updates on Facebook, but I thought I would get back on here.

It has been a fall filled with the unexpected including a car accident and surprisingly good feelings about work. With Christmas a week away, it seems hard to believe 2010 is on the brink. I'm thankful for another good year with blessings that outnumbered worries and look forward to whatever comes next.

Yesteday I got to be a part of one of the most incredible experiences of my life. A dad returning from Iraq early surprised his daughter during my class. She had no idea he would be home for Christmas - being a part of that moment was truly special. Of course I was crying - thank God the kids brought in tons of tissues for my room this year! I feel so thankful that this father could come home safely FOR GOOD in time to spend Christmas with his wife and kids.

Maybe I'll be a little more consistent with the blog in 2010 - stay tuned!

A little stroll through the library

2009-06-10T17:56:00.002-05:00

I stopped off this afternoon at the library to grab a new book to read. I just finished "Rhett Butler's People," which tells Rhett's side of the "Gone with the Wind" story. Needless to say, I loved it.

Today I went in looking for only one book and came out with four. There is something so soothing about walking through the fiction section reading the summaries until I find stories that pique my interest. Today I picked up "Waiting for Teddy Williams" (which I swear I have checked out before but never got around to reading), "Stardust," "The Lovely Bones," and "Sushi For Beginners." With summer coming, I cannot think of better ways to spend the quiet nights than curled up in bed reading until the late hours.

A week from today Tim starts his new adventure in Grosse Pointe and I start getting prepared for the Ireland adventure. Time flies!

Yeah, I know I hardly ever write anymore. . .

2009-06-01T20:32:00.002-05:00

But I thought I'd do a quick update. May was a good month - I finished my Masters degree, my kids took their High School Assessment tests, we squeezed in a weekend at Busch Gardens, and my parents drove in for a long weekend.

I also had to get reading glasses because apparently I have the eyes of a forty year old. So much for my amazing eyesight. Moments like this make me feel old.

Now it is June - school is almost done and I am counting down the days until Ireland (24 in case you were wondering). But first - Tim graduates! On Friday we will be up in NYC to watch Dr. Romanoski recieve his degree. I could not be more proud of him right now. We should have a blast catching up with his med school friends (or in my case, meeting many for the first time) and celebrating with the family. Four years have gone by surprisingly fast. . .

. . .and it dawned on me last month that I graduated college five years ago. Wow.

So. . .does anyone still read this thing?

2009-05-06T20:03:00.002-05:00

Let's face it, I don't blog much anymore and I wouldn't blame the world for giving up on this thing. But tonight it's raining and I have nothing on the "to-do" list, so here goes. . .

It has been a crazy few weeks. I officially finished up all of my graduate coursework last week so now all I need to do is walk at graduation. It feels so good to have my master's degree finished! My job, on the other hand, is as busy as ever.

My students take their high school assessment test in twelve days (but who is counting?!) and the next few days are very me-intensive as I review the entire year with them. One thing that scares me about public education in this state is that we all but take the tests for our students. We feed them questions and answers without taking the time to develop critical thinking and learner self-sufficiency. I'm getting to a point where I am becoming more and more disgusted with HOW we educate in this country. If you aren't feeling the dangers of it yet, just wait a few years until the "No Child Left Behind" generation fully hits the workforce.

At least the townhouse is looking super great these days. Sarah and I have been doing some serious spring cleaning and minor redecorating to get ready for the next few weeks. My place finally looks less like the post-college collection and more like a homey space. I love coming home and just sitting in my tv room relaxing. All the room needs is a nice big flatscreen, but that will have to wait for a while longer.

Tim graduates in less than a month, and I'm done work in five weeks. While part of me wants the school year to rush to an end, a large part of me wants to slow time down a bit, too. The next few weeks are going to fly by way too fast. . .I guess all you can do is hang on to what you have and roll with the changes to come. . .

Hershey Park, here I come!!!

2009-04-22T16:02:00.002-05:00

This weekend we are hitting up the first theme park of the summer. We are heading up to Hershey Park, where much roller coaster riding and chocolate sampling will occur. The weather should be in the 80s, which means perfect tanning weather, too!!!

In other news - I have planted an herb garden. Sarah and I are keeping rosemary, cilantro, oregano, and basil on the deck and I cannot wait to start cooking with all of it! The rains of the last few days are really helping most of the herbs to grow. The jury is out on whether the basil is going to survive the monsoons, however. . .

Sometimes, it's so not worth it.

2009-03-25T20:06:00.002-05:00

I HATE my job this week, not because of the kids, but because of the adults. Coming home with headaches that won't go away and cause mind-numbing pain can't be healthy. You want to know what else isn't healthy? Treating adults like they are incapable of independent thought. More on that later. . .my head still hurts and I'm going to bed.

Prayers have been answered!

2009-03-16T12:54:00.002-05:00

Tim found out today that he has a one-year residency match. He finds out more on Thursday about where it will be, but for now I am just doing cartwheels knowing he finally gets to live his dream.

Dang.

2009-03-12T20:09:00.003-05:00

Tim made amazing, restaurant-quality pan seared wasabi tuna for dinner tonight. I love that my man can cook.

In other news, I am SO glad the weekend is coming. . .and congrats to my favorite (Anna!!!) on her recent engagement!

Nothing like a long weekend.

2009-02-17T20:58:00.002-05:00

I had a completely relaxing weekend, complete with bargain shopping, Valentine's Day dinner and homemade dessert, reading a great novel, eating fondue, and tons of laughter. For the first time in weeks, I felt completely refreshed going back to work. Of course the refreshed feeling didn't last long, but I can't complain.

Tim took me to Sakura for dinner Saturday night and then I made us dessert. I have been trying a lot of new ideas lately, and this time I made a chocolate flourless cake dessert. It was VERY rich, and while not the best flourless cake ever, I have to say I did a darn good job.

This week is going to fly by - Tuesday is already over and by Friday I need to be packed for the ski weekend. I can't wait for a little quality time at the Barley home!!!

Sweet!

2009-02-11T18:18:00.000-05:00

Sandra Lee now has her own magazine of semi-homemade fun! I bought the premiere issue tonight at the grocery store and I am LOVING it!!!

It doesn't really take much to keep me happy.

Super Productive Afternoon of Power

2009-01-27T14:48:00.002-05:00

School got out 3 hours early today due to snow. The drive home was livable and I decided to spend the afternoon tearing through my curriculum and creating some new review lessons. All we have been doing lately is review, and thankfully the kids take their big test very soon. . .although I hope we don't have school tomorrow so the girls and I can go see "Bride Wars." If we do have school, I am sure there will be many bitter students and staff. Nothing can describe the joy of getting that phonecall and knowing you get to sleep in as late as you want!

Tim and I hit up trivia with Maggie and Ken last evening for the first time in a long time. We have decided to make trivia a monthly thing - trivia girl is still the most annoying know-it-all on the planet. We lost by 2 points but felt proud of our solid showing and totally obscure pick for next week's grab bag. I almost didn't go because I felt so drained from the day, but some nights you have to drag your butt out for a good laugh to get yourself out of a funk.

Here's hoping for a funk-free rest of the week . . .

Long time, no post.

2009-01-12T17:28:00.003-05:00

Well, it's a new year and it's a whole new ballgame here at my house. New table, new drapes, new tricks for cleaning efficiently, and a new roomie! Sarah is living with me while she attends community college, and so far we are loving it. We have the house looking absolutely adorable, I am getting in to one of my favorite shows, "Flight of the Conchords," and we opened a Netflix account together so we can watch movies on nights at home. I also FINALLY started watching "Big Bang Theory" and "How I Met Your Mother" - both shows are fantastic. James and Megan were completely right about them. . .

. . .and some things never change. That dang squirrel (I have now named is Houdini because he comes and goes mysteriously) should be vacating the attic this week if the contractor can finally figure out exactly how he is sneaking in to party all night. Work is still as crazy as ever, with drama mounting each day. At least the gym is also a constant - nothing blows off frustration like a good workout and a little tv at the end of the school day.

And I have decided that since my Patriots are out of it this year, I am changing up the usual chant. For all of my friends and neighbors here, I am now saying "Go Ravens!" Don't worry, it is only temporary. . .

End of Year Pop Culture Quiz

2008-12-29T10:53:00.002-05:00

I found this on IMDB.com today, and I thought it was worth sharing. I DID find one type-o in their questions, and I didn't bother to fix it, so see if you can figure it out. Answers are posted on their site - enjoy!!!

1. What are the names of Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie's twin babies?

a. Emme and Max

b. Vivienne and Knox

c. Maddox and Shiloh

d. Bill and Ben

2. Who directed Angelina Jolie in Changeling?

a. Sean Penn

b. James Cameron

c. Clint Eastwood

d. Martin Scorsese

3. Which actor did Scarlett Johansson marry in 2008?

a. Ryan Reynolds

b. Ryan O'Neal

c. Josh Hartnett

d. Josh Duhamel

4. Which movie won the 2008 Oscar for Best Motion Picture?

a. Atonement

b. Juno

c. No Country for Old Men

d. There Will Be Blood

5. Which celebrity welcomed a baby boy called Levi?

a. Matthew McConaughey

b. Jessica Alba

c. Nicole Kidman

d. Halle Berry

6. Which teen sensation stars as Hannah Montana?

a. Dakota Fanning

b. Miley Cyrus

c. Hilary Duff

d. Jamie Lynn Spears

7. Which supermodel was ordered to complete 200 hours of community service after spitting at a police officer?

a. Heidi Klum

b. Cindy Crawford

c. Naomi Campbell

d. Tyra Banks

8. Which of the following celebrities have not entered rehab in 2008?

a. Heather Locklear

b. David Duchovny

c. Eva Mendes

d. Ben Affleck

9. Who played Batman in this year's hit movie Batman Returns?

10. He played an old school American footballer in Leatherheads and an agent in Burn After Reading. Name the actor.

a. Brad Pitt

b. George Clooney

c. Johnny Depp

d. John Malkovich

11. Who leant their voice to an animated Panda?

a. Jack Nicholson

b. Will Smith

c. Jack Black

d. Ben Stiller

12. Who became a new mum and was voted Esquire magazine's Sexiest Woman in 2008?

a. Salma Hayek

b. Jessica Alba

c. Jennifer Lopez

d. Halle Berry

13. Name the Quantum of Solace Bond Girl

14. And what's the name of the new Bond theme song recorded by Jack White and Alicia Keys?

a. Quantum Leap

b. Die Another Day

c. Another Way To Die

d. I Die, You Die

15. She played the Hulk's girlfriend and a victim in The Strangers. Name the actress

a. Liv Tyler

b. Naomi Watts

c. Nicole Kidman

d. Renee Zellweger

16. Name the two stars of Appaloosa

a. George Clooney and Brad Pitt

b. Johnny Depp and Keith Richards

c. The Coen Brothers

d. Ed Harris and Viggo Mortensen

17. Which actress lost a lucrative modelling contract in the Far East for claiming the devastating earthquake in China was "karma" for the nation's atrocities in Tibet?

18. Name the two stars of Body Of Lies

a. Russell Crowe and Leonardo DiCaprio

b. Matthew McConaughey and Owen Wilson

c. Tom Cruise and Will Smith

d. Sean Penn and Clint Eastwood

19. And what was their first film together?

a. Open Range

b. The Quick and the Dead

c. Proof of Life

d. The Island

20. Who won the 2008 Oscar for Best Supporting Actress?

a. Keira Knightley

b. Cate Blanchett

c. Tilda Swinton

d. Ruby Dee

21. Spiderman's arch enemy played a stoner in Pineapple Express. Name the actor

a. James Caan

b. James Marsden

c. James Franco

d. James Gandolfini

22. And who played his sidekick in the hit comedy?

a. Seth Rogen

b. Seth Green

c. Jack Black

d. Jason Segel

23. What's the name of Wall-e's girlfriend?

a. Ava

b. Emily

c. Eva Longoria Parker

d. Eve

24. Al Pacino and Robert De Niro teamed up for the first time since Heat in which cop thriller?

a. Hancock

b. Righteous Kill

c. Body of Lies

d. No Country For Old Men

25. And which rapper played the movie's bad guy?

a. 50 Cent

b. Lil Wayne

c. Eminem

d. Diddy

26. What's the name of High School Musical 3's basketball team?

a. Cougars

b. Bobcats

c. Titans

d. Wildcats

27. Which former 007 hit the high notes in Mamma Mia!?

28. Who was named People magazine's Sexiest Man Alive in November?

a. Brad Pitt

b. Johnny Depp

c. Matt Damon

d. Hugh Jackman

29. Who won the 2008 Oscar for Best Actor?

a. Daniel Day-Lewis

b. Johnny Depp

c. Tommy Lee Jones

d. Viggo Mortensen

30. Name the two love-bitten stars of vampire romance Twilight

a. Rob Pattinson and Kristen Stewart

b. Robert Downey Jr. and Kirsten Dunst

c. Zac Efron and Vanessa Hudgens

d. Pierce Brosnan and Meryl Streep

31. And what's the name of their characters?

a. Edward + Bella

b. Belle + Sebastian

c. Edward + Penelope

d. Rhett + Scarlett

32. Sarah Jessica Parker made her long awaited debut to the big screen as Carrie Bradshaw in which 2008 hit movie?

a. Sex in the City: The Movie

b. Sexy Beast: The Musical

c. Sex in New York

d. Sex and the City: The Movie

33. This Eagle Eye-d star played Indiana Jones' son and almost lost his hand in a car accident. Name the actor

a. Shia Labeouf

b. Leonardo DiCaprio

c. Tobey Maguire

d. Zac Efron

34. Which two actors played onscreen lovers for the third time in Nights in Rodanthe?

a. Richard Gere and Julia Roberts

b. Richard Gere and Diane Lane

c. Josh Brolin and Diane Lane

d. Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan

35. Which actress announced her pregnancy on a Us late night TV chat show? Her baby, Henry Story, was born on 5 September.

a. Nicole Kidman

b. Halle Berry

c. Jennifer Garner

d. Minnie Driver

36. Which real-life lovers were co-stars in Woody Allen's Vicky Cristina Barcelona?

a. Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes

b. Javier Bardem and Penelope Cruz

c. Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony

d. Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie

37. And which newlywed joined them for the quirky film?

a. Scarlett Johansson

b. Jessica Alba

c. Nicole Kidman

d. Julianne Moore

38. Katie Holmes made her Broadway debut in which Arthur Miller play?

a. All My Daughters

b. All My Sons

c. Dawson's Creek

d. Hairspray

39. And who took Holmes' place as Batman's love interest?

40. Which lesbian couple exchanged vows in California?

a. Ellen DeGeneres and Portia De Rossi

b. Ellen DeGeneres and Anne Heche

c. Melissa Etheridge and Tammy Lynn Michaels

d. Rosie O'Donnell and Kelli Carpenter

Pictures in case you care.

2008-12-11T20:20:00.002-05:00

We went to NYC last weekend. Beyond the usual Christmas lights and musical (this year it was "Mary Poppins," which was fantastic!), we stopped at the Charmin bathroom. I promise you there is no potty cleaner in the city.

So I have one more week with my students and their midterm is behind them. The next few days get to be education for the fun of it. I love this time of year!

I came, I saw, I conquered.

2008-11-28T15:52:00.002-05:00

Thanksgiving was fantastic - I spent the day with Tim's family, Lisa and Matt, and some old friends. I have a couple of pictures that I will post when my brain is a little more functional. . .

Right after dinner, we hopped in the car and shopped until we almost literally dropped. We started at the Leesburg Outlets at 11, then headed to Macy's at 5 a.m. I then swung by Best Buy on my way home, passed out for a few hours, and just returned from attacking the mall one last time. I snagged some awesome deals and got almost everyone on my list checked off.

Now I am sitting in my den listening to Christmas music. My lights are up, my decorations are all in place, and my tiny little tree is lighting up the front window. Time to drink a Red Bull and get a little grad work done.

. . .and for those who are interested, I HIGHTLY recommend Kristin Chenowith's new Christmas album. Her voice is amazing!

Reasons to give thanks.

2008-11-24T19:46:00.002-05:00

In less than three days, I will be celebrating Thanksgiving with dear friends and practically family. As you can probably tell from my lack of blogging, I have been a little stressed lately by work, grad class, and life's uncertainties.

Things have not always gone my way, but even on my worst day of self-pity I have it much better than so many others. I know kids whose parents beat them, women who are facing breast cancer, and families who are making ends meet with two out-of-work parents. I have everyone and everything I need around me, and for that I am overwhelmed and thankful.

The long-awaited Halloween picture.

2008-11-11T21:13:00.002-05:00

Enjoy.

One of the many reasons I love my sister.

2008-11-06T16:08:00.003-05:00

I don't think it is going to surprise anyone who reads this blog to know I voted for John McCain. Sure, I don't openly argue politics with most of my friends, but those who know me best know that I am a conservative Christian woman with a heart that bleeds Republican work ethic. I appreciate my friends no matter what side of the political line they tow, and we respected each other yesterday. I actually had a very intelligent discussion yesterday with a friend who voted for Obama. We both hope for a better future for this country, and we truly do hope that the next four years are good ones.

My sister and I are cut from the same cloth. When she recently posted on Facebook that she was a "Proud Republican," an unprovoked argument was started by a childhood friend whom she has not spoken to in over five years. What I love is that she gave an EDUCATED response that was not based on pure emotion.

I am posting this to remind EVERY American that we are ALL entitled to our views without unfair judgement and irrational attack. To attack someone's conservativism without reason or intellect is just as hateful and ignorant as to attack someone's liberalism on the same grounds. Think before you rant, people. . .you may underestimate the mind on the other side.

CHILDHOOD FRIEND SAYS:

"honestly...it's people like you that make this world so incredibly sad. you can't even recognize what an amazing and significant opportunity barack obama's election truly is. voting for obama was about voting for the possibility of something better for this country instead of clinging to christian/republican ideals that have been shoved in our faces for eight years. and by "our"...i mean those of us who don't actually think george w. bush was a good president! no one said this obama was the f-ing messiah...he's a figure for a potential movement that could bring about legit social change...but it actually has to come from the people and not an election. this election provided the opening and it's our responsibility to make it a reality. i don't think there's a single person that should be sitting around going "boo hoo i'm a republican and the democrats won this election. cry cry cry." but the more that people like you sit in your little apartments with your cool husbands and hate the more stalled the entire process of living in a better world is going to be. progress and change aren't going to come from prayers and pulpits...it's going to come from you physically making it happen. the "long way to go" that everyone is talking about is literally a shout out to your own personal ignorance (along with an additional 46% of this country). if you plan to spend the majority of your young life..a time when you should probably be expanding your mind instead of carrying around the same uninformed bandwagon opinions you've had since you were a child without ever truly challenging something you were told..then wow, you're really really sad. in his victory speech he specifically reached out to the people who didn't vote for him and said that he wanted to be their president too. if that alone doesn't make you at least willing to give this man a chance...then you're truly hopeless and i feel extremely sorry for what your life is going to be like.

MY SISTER RESPONDS:

"just because I said that I was proud to be a republican doesn't make a single thing in this note from you true. I stand firm in my beliefs, and I truly hope for the best from this election. But I really don't need to explain that to you. You know absolutely nothing about my life, a lot has changed since middle school. So I would appreciate it if you would keep the opinions that you have formed about me to yourself. The beauty of living in a country like America is that we have the ability to think for ourselves and to make a stand without fear of punishment. The country is run on a multiple party system for a reason. I did not vote for Barack Obama, and I am proud to say that I cast my vote for John McCain, a conservative man who does share many of the values that I grew up with, and still hold dear. I also appreciate a president who has actual politcal experience, and didn't spend more than half of his elected years running for president, forget even mentioning that i prefer to vote for a candidate with a valid birth certificate. I find it kind of hypocritical that you can say the values that I hold dear are wrong and those that you hold dear are right. Trying to belittle me until I become a liberal? Kind of voids everything in your rant. And please don't worry about my expanding my mind... I attended one of the most liberal schools in MA and was the youngest ever recipient of a masters degree in my program... I am doing alright for myself. Unlike what you may believe I am a highly educated voter, not just a republican stooge. I vote for the candidate that I believe in, not just because he was the one on the republican ticket. If Barack had impressed me I would have voted for him. Never anywhere did I say I wasn't willing to give him a chance. That is the conclusion you came to, not anything that I put out there. But I am not impressed with words, I appreciate action, and I look forward to seeing what Obama does to keep his word regarding the many promises he made.You and I haven't spoken for years, I think it is best we keep it that way. I am not sure why you bothered to send me this note, but next time just keep your opinions to yourself, my "cool husband" and I have better things to do."

Enough said.

Worst pickup attempt EVER.

2008-11-05T20:16:00.003-05:00

While at Safeway's checkout line tonight

Guy ringing me up: "Hey this is going to sound random, but you know what time Target closes? I bought weights last night and a press bar to up my workout routine. They overcharged me and I need to get in there for a refund."

SERIOUSLY?!?!?

2008-10-29T18:32:00.002-05:00

I can't quite pinpoint why, but the last two weeks have felt like I am just spinning my wheels and getting nowhere. I'm sure it is a combination of all the things going on right now, but I just wish things would feel settled again.

I told my friend Kristin at work today that every time I go to complain about something school related or internship related, I am going to owe her a quarter. . .here's hoping it makes me stop whining. :)

You want WHO to coach?

2008-10-06T18:41:00.000-05:00

So I told Danny weeks ago I would be his assistant coach for the upcoming Powderpuff Football Tournament at school. This job entailed me simply "wearing a hat and blowing a whistle," as I was told, and I was okay with that.

Fast forward to this morning: I am now HEAD coach for senior team #2. I am supposed to run plays and practices while leading the seniors to victory. This should be cute. . .stay tuned.

Thank God I am competitive - I am going to do everything in my power to make my team rock despite its coach's obvious shortcomings.

What a FUN day!

2008-10-04T22:11:00.002-05:00

"Legally Blonde" was a blast. The music was better than I anticipated (if you saw ANY of the MTV Elle Woods show you know why I say that) and the entire musical was very well done. I came out singing and smiling, as did Matt and Lisa.

After the theatre, we met up with Tim for dinner on the water and Little Italy for dessert. The weather was perfect for being outdoors, and we got a few good pictures which I will post when I am not so tired.

I love Saturdays like this.

I love "Pushing Daisies"

2008-10-01T19:35:00.003-05:00

At the end of a long day that started out with exhaustion, it's good to have a quirky show with a great storyline, scented candles, a clean house, and enough energy to stay awake until 9.

Lisa, Matt and I are going to see "Legally Blonde" in Baltimore on Saturday! Only two days until the weekend. . .

Jamesapalooooooooooooza!

2008-09-25T21:20:00.001-05:00

It's going to be a good weekend, and my weekend starts a day early. No school tomorrow means sleeping in, spin class, and hitting the road for James' party in PA.

I love that I get to stay up and watch all of the season premiere of "Grey's Anatomy" tonight. I have been up baking, doing laundry, and cleaning around the house while the doctors get back to business. I can't say the episode has been awesome, but I do like the Bernaette Peters is guest starring. There are forty minutes left, so I'll see what happens.

I don't care what they say.

2008-09-24T21:12:00.002-05:00

I still think Lance Bass is pretty and Clay Aiken's voice makes me smile.

Some thoughts on SNL as of late

2008-09-15T15:59:00.002-05:00

I found this blog post interesting, and not just because it was from boston.com - let me know your thoughts.

All I have to say is. . .

2008-09-08T19:56:00.003-05:00

. . .my poor, poor Tom. Megan and I had a shared mourning session on the phone tonight.

So much stuff to think about!

2008-09-04T18:56:00.002-05:00

It's roommate hunting season again, and it's giving me a lot to think about. Becky has been fantastic, and I'm hoping for another great roommate to come along very soon. . .time will tell. Pray that I find someone half as great!

In other news, Tim took me out for an amazing anniversary dinner Monday night. We went up to Baltimore and had dinner at Roy's, a Hawiian fusion restaurant with the best pineapple martinis ever, fantastic entrees, and a flourless chocolate cake souflee that is to DIE for. Top the night off with a gift certificate to a day spa, and I couldn't complain. Five years together - unbelievable!!!

Tomorrow is Friday, which means it is Bribe First Period with Food Day. I'm getting up early to bring the kiddies McDonald's hash browns, per their request. These kids are in my class to retake the state test next month, so whatever makes their morning a little better (and their brains a little more awake) seems like a good investment to me.

Guess what.

2008-08-28T18:54:00.001-05:00

Tomorrow is Friday, the kids have a half day, AND it's the beginning of a long weekend! The week has been good, and I'm hoping the weekend is even better. . .

Trying a new dessert

2008-08-27T17:58:00.002-05:00

We are invited to a cookout on Sunday, and I bought all the ingredients tonight to make a raspberry cheesecake trifle. It involves making a ganache, something I have never done before, but the recipe makes it seem easy enough. We shall see come Saturday. . .

. . .I am finally starting to feel caught up at work. I have about a half hour's worth of sorting left to do with my beginning of the year paperwork, and if I ever get the motivation to grade tonight, I can start the day tomorrow with a very short to-do list. The kids are doing a new lab tomorrow, and I am excited to see how they do. So far, they seem like a very promising bunch with a pretty high amount of intellect and motivation. . .a combination I love!

And if all goes well, I will get another chunck of "Water for Elephants" finished tonight, if not the entire novel. It has been so nice to have time to read over the last week.

I love it when things fit.

2008-08-25T19:41:00.002-05:00

New shoes, new classes, food in the freezer - I just love it when things fit how they ought to.

I wore very new shoes today that Becky picked out for me and they felt good all day AND made the perfect statement with my skirt. My students and I are seeming to get a great rapport going, and I enjoyed every second of teaching them today. My new schedule intimidated me at first, but I like that I start with a class, take a break, then teach two, take another break, and end the day with two. (Those who hate teacher schedules can keep their mouths shut.)

We fit all the food in the freezer last night (if you knew our house, you'd know this is a serious feat). I fit in time for a workout today, and I squeezed just enough time out of the day to get a little new music in tonight as well. (The new music is Vitamin String Quartet - amazing classical covers of all sorts of rock songs by strings - only WCS Strings alum could love it as much as I do!)

It's been a good day, and that is something to always be thankful for.

I love well-written descriptors.

2008-08-23T09:54:00.002-05:00

From boston.com:

And though Biden has plenty of admirers, he doesn't come with an energized, committed bloc of supporters, as Hillary Clinton would have or the way John Edwards did in 2004 -- and arguably might have again, before his affair revealed him as a narcissistic twit willing to endanger his party by running for president with an explosive secret in his immediate past.

More people should be properly labeled in the media.

Truly Thankful It's the Weekend.

2008-08-22T16:14:00.003-05:00

I was reminded this week many times why I love my job, but I am exhausted. I dragged my butt to the gym after work, and tonight I plan on keeping things very low-key and getting some darn good sleep in. This may be an excellent night to keep working through "Water for Elephants," which thus far has been a very quick and very good read.

I can't tell you how glad I am that Tim finally takes his boards tomorrow - it's been killing me not to tell him about the new school year. I'm sure with an entire week of being holed up studying, he is just as glad the weekend has arrived, if not more than me.

Tomorrow night it is time for the Ram's Head. Nothing beats a beautiful summer evening sitting out on their back patio with great friends and good drinks.

The new class of Bol is in.

2008-08-20T17:59:00.001-05:00

I met all of my kids today, and I think it could be a very fun year. I still have them wondering whether I'm a little bit crazy or just plain quirky. . .a very delicate balance I like to play until at least October.

I already love my freshmen.

2008-08-19T19:45:00.000-05:00

I'm not going to lie: I wasn't looking forward to a new school year at all until I met some of my students today. Freshmen always steal my heart with their quirkiness, and I'm so glad they got me excited for what is to come. Bring on the school year!

In other news, I FINALLY finished "The Lost Art Of Keeping Secrets" by Eva Rice. The book was ok, but I never really felt like it had much of a plot. Aunt Barb, Anna, and several other people recommended "Water for Elephants," so I'll give that one a try next.

Day One Over and Done.

2008-08-14T19:17:00.003-05:00

I still can't believe I am back to work. Our first preservice day went well - the usual meetings were more for catching up with friends than really listening to what was going on. We got our new staff shirts (not too bad this year!) and school IDs. I felt like I accomplished a lot in my classroom today as well - at this rate, the room SHOULD be set by Monday. . .but we'll see what gets in my way.

I'm still living in that state of denial that the school year has begun, and I suppose it won't all feel real until the new kids are in my room. Only a few short days until I meet them all. . .

. . .in other news, Tim is finally home tomorrow!

One more day of summer.

2008-08-12T21:10:00.001-05:00

I can't believe school starts on Thursday for the teachers. It has been a fantastic summer, winding down with a great trip home after three and a half weeks of summer school. Tomorrow will be a day of errands, shopping, and food out before the daily grind begins anew. . .

Two Book Reports by the Vikster

2008-07-30T19:48:00.002-05:00

I have now finished two more books, both which feature teenage, first-person narrators. "The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time" is about a British autistic boy's encounters around his neighborhood as he searches for a mysterious dog-killer. Reading a narrative written from the perspective of a child with autism is fascinating. The book will break your heart, but it is worth it to get inside the hero's mind.

"An Egg on Three Sticks" is the story of Abby, a thirteen year old girl in 1970s California whose mother is institutionalized after she attempts suicide. Another well-written teenage protagonist paints a vivid story for the reader, and another difficult story makes you want to hug the narrator. I was a little skeptical of this book when I picked it up at the library, and I still don't have any clue why it is titled as such, but it was a quick, good read.

Next up is a novel called "The Lost Art of Keeping Secrets," penned by lyricist Tim Rice's daughter. Becky liked it so I think I will like it to. I'll start that read as soon as I get poolside in Massachusetts.

By the way, keep my grandmother in your prayers. She is having major surgery next week, and I'm thankful I can be home to spend some time with her before she goes out of comission for a while.

I am so excited for tomorrow!!!

2008-07-25T21:32:00.004-05:00

I hit up the Glen Burnie carnival tonight. Nothing like the opening night to bring out GB's "finest." I didn't win any of the games but here's hoping I win the car raffle. The night ended with a marshmallow covered snowball - not a bad Friday!

Maggie, Ken, Matt and I are all heading to the Crownsville Wine Festival tomorrow. Over 200 wineries will be there, along with plenty of vendors and great food. With a gorgeous forecast for the day and good friends to join me, it's going to be great!

Finally - it's a Maryland Summer.

2008-07-23T11:45:00.002-05:00

Morgan brought about 50 steamed crabs to the department cookout last night, and we all sat for a good hour picking crabs and catching up on summer life. We followed our appetizers up with great burgers, fresh mozzarella with basil and tomatoes, homemade potato salad, and lots of other great summer food. I ended up staying a lot later than I planned last night because we were having such a blast - the fun people from work should get together more often.

I had my New England lobster for the Fourth of July, and now I had my steamed crabs for an official Maryland summer!

Run, don't walk. . .

2008-07-20T20:46:00.001-05:00

To go see "The Dark Knight." Everyone is talking about Heath Ledger's performance (which is just as good as they say), but there are so many other reasons why this movie sets the bar for superhero films. Post comments if you have seen it!

I started an herb garden.

2008-07-17T19:00:00.002-05:00

I potted some basil and greek oregano over the past two weeks. I know I'm a little late for summer gardening, but better late than never! So far, the basil is still acclimating (and by acclimating I mean mostly dying), but the oregano looks and smells wonderful. I threw a little of both in with my grilled veggies tonight - fantastic!

The cool thing about our townhouse is that we have a big window made for plants. In the fall, we can move the herb garden indoors and keep on cooking with them all year long.

What an amazing read.

2008-07-16T19:48:00.002-05:00

I finished "Nineteen Minutes" by Jodi Picoult a few moments ago, and I would highly recommend it. My Aunt Barb and Becky had both read it and hailed its praises. The book's subject matter cuts to your core (the story begins with a school shooting in New Hampshire and backtracks through the lives of the shooter and his vitims) and is written so beautifully that one can't help but be drawn in. It usually takes me at least a month to get through a long novel, but this one took only a little over two weeks.

Next on the summer reading list is "The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time" by Mark Haddon. This is one of those books I have been meaning to get around to for the last few years. I look forward to seeing what it has to offer.

I thought this was interesting.

2008-07-14T16:29:00.003-05:00

Hollywood is buzzing with this weekend's release of "The Dark Knight" (and I am ALSO excited for the release of "Mama Mia!" - but that is another blog for another day) and I found this interesting compilation of stars who died before their final films were released. Interesting stuff.

Speaking of "The Dark Knight" - who wants to go check it out this weekend? Between that and "Mamma Mia," I am going to spend most of my weekend in a theater so let me know!

My new favorite pictures

2008-07-13T19:36:00.006-05:00

I spent last night at my first Washington Nationals game, courtesy of Sara and Danny. Club seats on a gorgeous night - can't beat it!!! Sara and I want to go back soon. What a fun park - great food, running bobblehead presidents during the 4th inning, a HUGE jumbotron screen, and comfy seats. I'd recommend this park to any baseball fan.
Sara and I stalked the bird until we got a picture! The "handler" was going to snub us, but Screech the Bird INSISTED our picture dreams be fulfilled!!!
Tim and I at the gate - the new park is really nice.
After the game with Tim and Ryan.
Nothing like a little rickshaw to get Danny, Sara, and Matt back to their car. Good thing the boys weren't driving. ;)

We won at trivia last night.

2008-07-08T15:13:00.002-05:00

It was an almost perfect evening at Irish Channel last night. Trivia wench was not there, and our friend Debbie was announcing in her stead. Debbie's voice is so much more pleasant than Katie's, and she also does trivia much more efficiently. Instead of getting out at 9:30, we were out of both games a little after 9.

Best part of the night - we won game two!

4th of July Fun and Antics

2008-07-07T15:38:00.002-05:00

Tim and I went to my parents' house for a few days over the holiday. Good times were had by all. My grandfather is starting to give me a complex - he told me I am not allowed to come home unless Tim is with me!

Yesterday we packed up and headed in to Brooklyn to drop Tim off for his peds rotation, and today I started teaching summer school. It's a bit of a shock to talk in to my classroom and see twenty-two faces staring back at me. Last summer, the program had about nine kids. Thank goodness the morning went by quickly.

Have I mentioned how much I hate humidity?

2008-06-26T15:37:00.002-05:00

Sometimes I wonder how the heck I ended up in a state where humidity comes by the boatload. It hit today, and it's killing me slowly. Boooooo humidity and its energy-sapping powers.

Did Anyone Else See This?

2008-06-26T07:51:00.002-05:00

Tim and I were watching portions of "I Survived a Japanese Game Show" Tuesday night, and I'm thoroughly perplexed. There were more noises and colors than I have ever seen before - I felt like I was developing ADHD just by looking at the screen. And the challenges - how weird can things get? I bet the Japanese look at our reality TV shows and probably judge us in much the same way.

I am done grad class - after hours of studying for that stupid final, it had a few off-the-wall questions on it. At least I am done, and hopefully I earn an A in the class. So today's big plans include spin class in about a half hour, a hair appointment, and a whole lot of reading for fun. Yay for a few days of kicking back WITHOUT studying to do. . .

One more class. . .

2008-06-24T12:39:00.001-05:00

I have one more night of my summer course, and I cannot wait to be done. This class has been a giant headache, with a professor whose directions and expectations have been murky at best. Last night, she held us an extra fifteen minutes to listen to her lecture because she took too long handing back papers on the front end of class. Needless to say, there are a lot of cranky adults who are very exhausted.

I'm spending this afternoon and most of tomorrow reviewing for the final. I have no idea what to expect and little motivation to do any more work. I'm just going to keep hanging in there for about twenty four hours, and then it's party time.

Am I really in Maryland?

2008-06-21T11:10:00.001-05:00

I hate to say this because I will probably jinx it, but here we are rounding the last lap of June, and there is no humidity in the air. I spent a gorgeous afternoon at the pool yesterday, and this morning I spent an hour on my deck reading. Usually by this time in the summer, the humidity has me hiding indoors. I hope this keeps up.

Let My Summer Begin

2008-06-20T11:57:00.003-05:00

After four days in workshops, it's my first official free day of the summer. Nothing beats that first summer morning of sleeping in. . .big plans for the afternoon include poolside studying for grad class.

Jon Lester is my newest hero.

2008-05-20T19:45:00.005-05:00

What an amazing game last night. There is nothing like watching a good guy who has overcome do something amazing. Congrats, Jon!

Speaking of amazing, if you have not watched the "House" season finale yet, you NEED to. I would elaborate, but I know there are those like me who had to DVR it. (We lost at trivia, by the way.) I haven't felt that much emotion in a television show for quite a long time.

I guess it was a night for high emotions, huh?

Spin class = euphoria. . .

2008-05-19T16:28:00.002-05:00

. . .at least after you get over the initial shock. I took my first spin class Saturday, and I am completely hooked. Bring on the spin! If all goes well, I will head back for another shot tomorrow night.

I read a review of the new Indiana Jones today and it was very favorable. My radio guys have been panning the movie, so it gave me renewed hope that this next big movie I am looking forward to will live up to my expectations. Who doesn't love Indiana Jones anyway?!?!? I'll get a little Indy preview at trivia tonight - first game grab bag is devoted entirely to my favorite professor. We won last Monday, and the plan is to pull a repeat.

Well THIS is interesting.

2008-05-12T14:59:00.002-05:00

What a strange morning. I woke up, hopped in the shower, and got out to a voicemail saying school was delayed for two hours. Turns out our torrential overnight downpours were enough to keep the kiddies home until 9:20. I went back to sleep and when I woke up made a nice breakfast and headed to my car. When I got to my car, I looked down to see huge puddles of water below both seats on the driver's side. Grabbing a Solo cup, I started bailing and called work to say I wouldn't be in. . .

. . .flash forward: the dealership had no clue why my car was becoming a flood zone and I will be driving an Aveo until we get to the bottom of this. I got in to work in time to teach third period, and the day was actually good. Now it's off to two more hours of work, followed by trivia. Trivia girl had better watch out tonight, because I'm already a little punchy.

This article hurts a little. . .

2008-05-09T21:36:00.002-05:00

. . .but given my profession and some of the blazing geniuses of my generation whom I have encountered, I can't say I entirely disagree with this article. As much as I wish I could drop the article age down to 20 or so, I have to say that people my age are just as digitally immersed as the kids I teach.

Does this mean I have given up on youth? Of course not! I just get really tired of how little we expect of young people despite the fact that higher standards DO make a difference in life. I'd love to hear your thoughts. . .if anyone still reads this.

Pour a little of your saline drip out for my Scrubbies

2008-05-08T16:01:00.001-05:00

I'm very sad that "Scrubs" ends tonight, but I am looking forward to seeing how the final episode pans out. Please, please, please don't mess this finale up.

Yay for fun!

2008-05-06T20:24:00.003-05:00

After work, tutoring, a workout, and a run to the grocery store, I snuck Sara out of The County to enjoy some stir fry, Rita's, and tv. It doesn't take much to keep me content on a weeknight. . .thank God for good friends and "Dancing with the Stars."

Do you know what else makes me happy these days? The weather and the Wii. It is the perfect season in Maryland where there is no humidity and enough warmth to sit on the deck and read a book. It is also the time of year where I have time to sit at night and relax - my latest obsession is MarioKart for Wii. I could lose many hours of my life to that game. . .

Holy cow!

2008-05-01T20:00:00.004-05:00

The "Scrubs" finale is next week! I'm feeling a little sad. At least Addison is back on "Grey's Anatomy" tonight, and that will cheer me slightly. If I was a surgeon, I would want to be as sassy as her, and wear her cute shoes.

In other TV news, I was minding my own business this afternoon on the elliptical when a newscast showing babies being thrown from a temple in India confused the heck out of me. Apparently this small town tosses babies from the temple in to a sheet below. The babies bounce once, are picked up by some townsperson, and then they are expected to live their normal baby life. I'd hate to pay the therapy bills on these kids some day.

Something to pray about.

2008-04-30T17:56:00.001-05:00

A family friend is missing on Mount Baker. Read the story here and keep praying!

SUPER productive.

2008-04-26T17:29:00.001-05:00

I set up the new kitchen pub set, organized my closet, AND vacuumed the house today! I love lazy Saturdays where I do my errands and wander from store to store. . .

. . .highlight of the day: discovering a really fun, trendy consignment shop a mile and a half from my house.

Some people need people skills.

2008-04-24T20:21:00.000-05:00

Just a thought: if you work in customer service, perhaps you should be kind on the phone when customers call seeking help. Again, just a thought. . .

And done.

2008-04-21T17:14:00.002-05:00

My all-consuming grad paper is finally done and ready to hand in Wednesday. Hopefully you will all see it in published form very soon.

In other news - Becky and I are planning a sweet Cinco de Mayo party for the first weekend in May. Stay tuned for all the fun details. . .

The birthday was a success.

2008-04-18T22:00:00.002-05:00

The crew and I hit up Kyma and the Melting Pot for my birthday on Wednesday night. Starting with Greek food and sangria, we ended with bananas foster fondue (to die for, by the way) and since I couldn't make up my mind, Maggie demanded I drink a blackberry margarita. Of course the food was coupled with a little mischief, too. (We can never behave.)

At twenty-six, I have to say that I have some of the greatest friends, both near and far. Couple that with an amazing family, and I truly cannot complain.

In other news, I'm a little obsessed with my new iPod workout mix. Rest assured will be rocking in less than 10 hours. . .

Just because I'm Proud of It. . .

2008-04-15T19:57:00.002-05:00

. . .I have to tell everyone that I will enter year 26 of life tomorrow, and I am over 23 pounds lighter than I was in January. Thanks to Weight Watchers and my awesome, inspiring, supportive roommate, I have gone beyond what I thought I could ever achieve!

It's going to be a great birthday. ;)

Long time, no blog.

2008-04-13T20:29:00.002-05:00

Yes I know it's been a while. Life has been busy for this girl.

With Tim home for three weeks, I didn't get much blog time. We hit the O's home opener (great story about that to tell you all some time in person), checked out BodyWorlds, played trivia (and royally upset trivia girl - and we're proud of it!), ate great food, and hung out with friends. Needless to say, I slept too little and had a lot of fun.

Tim is back now in NYC now, so with time on my hands again I'm having a whole lot of dorky fun writing my grad paper.(which I can hopefully publish). The roomie and I are having a blast hanging in Naptown - we found a fabulously tacky karaoke bar and have made it our Thursday night entertainment. We now are the proud parents of a Wii, and with summer coming we have big plans for some deck parties. Summer can't come soon enough. . .

He is Risen!

2008-03-23T19:02:00.002-05:00

Easter is behind us, and all 22 (yes, 22 - the list grew!!!) of the clan enjoyed themselves. Mom made a great meal and we all ate a whole lot of it. I feel so blessed to have a family that stays so close.

Back to work Tuesday, but at least it's back to see my man tomorrow!!!

In case you care. . .

2008-03-19T20:05:00.002-05:00

. . .listening to the hacks on "American Idol" this season fumble their way through Beatles classics makes me want to vomit. If John Lennon wasn't all about giving peace a chance, he would probably rise from the dead and kill those crappy singers like they just killed his songbook.

Leave the classics to the artists who made them great!!!

Top O' The Mornin' To Sales!

2008-03-15T15:59:00.002-05:00

Maggie and I made another killing shopping today. I bought 4 pairs of pants, two shirts and a sweater for under $110. I love rocking a good sale.

Tonight's we head downtown for a little Saint Patty's Day fun. Yes, I know the real deal is not until Monday, but why not start today? Then Tuesday it's off to MA for a week in the homeland. I love Spring Break.

RIP Blue Toshiba: 2004-2008

2008-03-13T21:18:00.002-05:00

My laptop died last week, only the diagnosis did not come until yesterday. Now I'm waiting anxiously to see if my new laptop will be set and ready tomorrow. Living off other people's computers is frustrating, especially when you are in the midst of compiling and writing a major research paper. Oh well.

Spring break starts at 2:40 tomorrow. . .nothing can get me down!

Live Blogging from the Oscars

2008-02-24T21:44:00.002-05:00

Best dressed thus far: Jennifer Garner, Anne Hathaway, Cate Blanchett and Jessica Alba.
I hate when actors try to act like political experts. How many of you have government degrees or ever actually look beyond your own self-interest?
Holy cow - Tilda Swanton won! For those of you saying "Tilda who?!", if you saw "The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe," she was the witch.
I wish I got to be a seat filler at the Oscars. I would want to pick my preferred seats. If they stuck me next to Jack Nicholson or someone else I don't like, I might start heckling them or doing really bad impressions of them.
I know Johnny Depp won't win, but I really wish he would. Everyone would flip out, and Johnny would finally get what he has deserved for so many years.
There's a lot of red dresses out there tonight.
George Clooney in a suit onstage = a good moment.
Becky says "No Country for Old Men" sucked, and I'm going to agree with her evaluation since we appear to have similar movie tastes.
No one cares what the Academy head has to say. No one really cares about the foreign items, either. Just keep it moving, people!!!

12 more minutes until I call it a night. . .

This day calls for a margarita ending.

2008-02-22T18:18:00.002-05:00

We didn't have school today due to the highly disappointing ice storm. This storm was billed as an apocalyptic horror, and all it did was keep me from getting to the gym before 11 a.m. I will not complain, however, because it kept me home and let me go see a movie with Maggie and Ken.

Becky and I are going to hit up dinner downtown, and I believe margaritas will be involved. The rest of the weekend will be spent doing mundane things like working on my grad paper and buying groceries. No worries, though, because it all winds down with the Oscars on Sunday night. Oh yeah, I love me some Oscar coverage. My thoughts on the winners, losers, and all of their clothing choices on Monday night.

Skiing kicked my butt

2008-02-18T20:15:00.002-05:00

BarleyFest '08 was fantabulous, complete with friends, skiing, video games and fun shots. We hit the slopes for almost six hours on Saturday with perfect conditions. Needless to say, the skiiers among us were hurting the next day. The pain was definitely worth it - what a blast!

Tim took me out to a new restaurant for lunch today, then he was off for a return to the Cape. The last few hours have been spent working on my grad research project, and my brain hurts to match the pain in my back and neck. It's going to be one of those long weeks. . .

I have a new obsession.

2008-02-12T20:31:00.000-05:00

I discovered "Scrabulous" the other night and now all I want to do is play. First game versus Tim he beat me, but we will play again and I have to win at some point. If anyone wants to play me, bring it on!!!

And for those wh care about TV, here are the post-strike show details!!! Notice that Scrubs is coming back - yay!!!

I'm watching a rerun of "Scrubs" right now. . .

2008-02-09T15:09:00.001-05:00

. . .and I can't help but wonder if we will ever know what happens to all of our favorite staff members at Sacred Heart. Stupid writers strike.

For Those of You Wondering How NE Feels Today. . .

2008-02-04T09:36:00.001-05:00

. . .this article pretty much says it all. I'm sorry we lost, but we played in a manner that SHOULD have lost. Giants fans, savor the feeling - we were in your shoes 6 years ago and I just hope that in 6 years, the rest of the country doesn't hate you as much as they do us.

See guys, the Patriots ARE human.

Trust me, go see "Juno"

2008-02-02T22:36:00.000-05:00

I went to a matinée this afternoon and loved every minute of it. "Juno" is definitely worth the hype it is receiving, and come Oscar time I think you will see it walk off with at least one little gold guy. The performances are dead-on, the story is wonderfully crafted, and the dialogue is witty while maintaining realism.

Go see it, already! You will be talking about it, too.

We came, we saw, we conquered

2008-02-01T20:58:00.001-05:00

Two pairs of Gap dress pants for $17.89, originally $59.50 each. That is all I have to say.

Happy birthday, Mom!

2008-01-31T21:23:00.001-05:00

Today is my mom's birthday. I remember 4 years ago on my way home from college to surprise her on her birthday, I spun my car out and got stuck in an icy ditch. Thankfully, today had far less drama for all involved. . .I made a birthday phone call instead of an icy drive. I think Dad took Mom out for dinner, and I hope they had fun.

Do you know what I bet my mom would love for her birthday? A perfect Patriots season. Tom, Teddy, Mike, let's see what we can do to make the birthday girl happy.

49 pints of blood

2008-01-25T19:51:00.000-05:00

My kids did great today at the blood drive. The workers were really friendly this year, too! I only wish they could have moved things along a little faster, but I guess you pick your battles. I'll take nice over speedy any day.

10 Things that are Cheaper than Therapy

2008-01-24T20:26:00.000-05:00

1. Ellipticals and fast music
2. New episodes of "Chuck"
3. Two-for-Tuesdays on 100.7
4. Theatre
5. Cheesy biscuits from Red Lobster
6. Prospects of a ski weekend
7. A cute new shade of lipstick
8. Fresh coffee every morning
9. Cooking dinner in the crockpot
10. Surprise visits from Tim

Most of these have been a part of the last week, so I can't complain. I am happy January is almost over!!!

I'm tired.

2008-01-16T21:17:00.000-05:00

I'm tired of co-workers whose lack of competence leave the rest of us to not only keep our own classrooms running, but to clean up the disasters they leave behind. I'm tired of people who never offer to help but constantly ask help from me. I'm tired of adults who act no better than the teenagers they teach, and frustrated that these people are the ones the kids see as role models. I'm tired of administrators who demand deadlines from us but don't adhere to deadlines themselves. I'm tired of students who don't understand that it's because I care that I make them work so hard, not because I'm stubborn. And I'm tired of kids I don't even teach taking my stuff from my room because they think it is funny, then bragging about it on the school bus.

I still love my job, but this week I don't have to like it.

Dad fell. :(

2008-01-15T21:20:00.000-05:00

The giant snowstorm claimed my dad's right elbow. :(

New Year, New Posts

2008-01-12T16:54:00.000-05:00

Sometimes I have nothing to blog about. The last few weeks have been busy and interesting, so who knows why I have been too lazy to blog. I guess sometimes you get home from work and the last thing you want to do is stare at a computer screen for even five minutes.

So what's new with me? School is back in full swing, both for my students and for myself. I am taking a Saturday course this month, and most nights are filled with paper writing and reading about school-based court cases. My course is all about law and the school system, and I do find it interesting. It makes me want to go all Elle Woods on the school system, but I think I'll stick to my classroom.

Speaking of school, I pick up a new prep next week. All the full time biology teachers are picking up a daily tutoring course. Imagine my joy when I learned mine will meet 8th period in the tech-ed. classroom. The idealistic, bright-eyed lover of education inside of me is already playing the various scenarios in which I might reach these kids as no one has reached them before. . .and I'm trying my best to stifle my realistic side until life smacks idealism in the face.

I witnessed a very hostile parking space fight the other day. The woman whose spot was stolen actually parked her car in front of the freshly parked thief, got out of her car, walked to said thief's window, and verbally scared her enough to make the woman change spaces. I thought knives were going to be pulled out. The best part was that they were suburban yuppies in their compact imports. I get angry at my fellow drivers, but if I'm ever that angry I think I need to be committed.

I won tickets to a show on the radio yesterday morning for being the pop culture brainiac that I am. The use of trivial knowledge has FINALLY extended beyond Monday nights - yes!

Everyone is hating on my Patriots these days - I'm in tonight to do some work
and watch them (hopefully) win. All you bitter, angry losing teams out there, just remember one thing: the Patriots sucked worse than just about everyone out there from '86 to my sophomore year of college. We have a right to love our team, and we have a right to be proud of them. Our losing time will come again, don't you worry.

I promised myself I would make something fun for dinner so that's all the blogging for now. I promise the next one will not take so long to come around.

Life in the homeland

2007-12-27T23:12:00.000-05:00

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. . .

24 hours to freedom. . .

2007-12-20T20:55:00.000-05:00

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.

I forgot one on the list. . .

2007-12-12T13:10:00.001-05:00

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.

The Shrek Christmas Special Annoys Me

2007-12-11T20:15:00.000-05:00

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. . .

The Thanksgiving Recap

2007-11-27T19:52:00.001-05:00

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.

I'm so excited!

2007-11-12T22:42:00.000-05:00

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.

Woo hoo!

2007-10-30T15:30:00.000-05:00

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.

Long time no blog

2007-10-27T23:04:00.000-05:00

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?

Making me worry. . .

2007-10-19T07:44:00.000-05:00

. . .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.

You'll be happy to know. . .

2007-10-09T20:36:00.000-05:00

. . .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.

Takes on the new season

2007-10-04T20:02:00.000-05:00

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!!!

Back from Florida

2007-10-02T17:16:00.000-05:00

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!!!

Guess what.

2007-09-26T20:42:00.001-05:00

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.

Two more days to a four-day weekend.

2007-09-25T20:36:00.000-05:00

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

And a good time was had by all.

2007-09-24T21:16:00.000-05:00

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!

Denim Day

2007-09-19T20:25:00.000-05:00

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.